When fighting fires was voluntary

A little known fact in Bonita is that the Bonita-Sunnyside Fire Department, which because of their efficiency, we very often take for granted, was once strictly a volunteer unit.

The sole person on duty at the firehouse would sound the alarm- a cacophonous siren which generally awakened everyone in the valley- and within minutes the emergency vehicles were manned and on their way to whatever needed assistance. It was known as the Upper Sweet­­water Valley Volunteer Fire Department and it very satisfactorily served the community.

Dick Yolky, with the present department, is anticipating the 35th anniversary of the founding of the volunteer unit and he is asking for assistance. He wishes to locate as many pictures, anecdotes, written material, and any other memorabilia relating to the volunteer outfit. These will b put in some semblance of order at a central location prior to the anniversary date of February 1985.

Yokely may be reached at 479-2346. Any material may be dropped off at the fire station, 4035 Bonita Road.

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Marleen Rogers, from the Bonita Business and Professional Association, has announced the date and place for this years annual casino night.

This event, in past years, has proven to be not only a good source of revenue for the community projects section of the association but also an enjoyable evening for those participating.

Feb.24, 7 p.m., is the date and time for this year’s event, which will be held at the Bonita Golf Club.

Tickets are $15, will include a buffet-style roast beef dinner and 50 chips. The grand prize for this year’s casino will be a three-day trip for two to Las Vegas, courtesy of The Star News.

Tickets may be obtained from Marleen Rogers at the Bonita branch of San Diego Trust or from any association member.

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Golfers in the area will have the opportunity to compete in what I believe to be one of the most worthwhile tournaments around.

The second annual Bonita Vista High School tournament will be held on the Bonita Golf Course on Saturday, Feb. 4.

This tourney is sponsored by the Bonita Vista High Golf Boosters and is to provide funds for the 1984 team participation in that sport. The Sweetwater District has eliminated golf from its curriculum as a cost saving item and outside funds are the only way that high school golfers can participate.

Further details and signup forms may be obtained from Clarke Dennison at 256 3rd Ave. or he may be telephoned at 426-2800.

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