Neighbors raise funds for Milton Fire Department

On a picture-perfect Sunday afternoon June 12 in Milton, Sunland Ranch community members enjoyed a socially distant live music concert and raised money for the Milton Fire Department.

Organizers Leo and Doreen Chamberland wanted to do something to help out first responders, and they came up with the idea of a backyard concert. They talked with their friend, Al “Frantic” Knight, a popular local musician and owner of Frantic Frets in Milton, to see if the Al Frantic Band would play.

The band was available and excited to be part of such a great event. Milton Fire Department is currently going through a major expansion.

Dozens of neighbors came out to listen to great music. There wasn’t a bad seat in the yard. Donations totaling $800 were collected in a fireman’s boot which was presented to the fire department at its July 13 meeting. Milton Fire Department President Johnny Hopkins said this donation will go a long way to help and expressed how the MFD appreciates the Chamberlands’ efforts.

The Chamberlands are hoping that other communities might hold a similar event for first responders. “It is a great way to socialize with your neighbors, get outside, enjoy some live music while supporting our first responders,” said Doreen. Everyone brought their own chairs and coolers. The Chamberlands provided the space, and their neighbors the Klines provided the pizza. Leo said, “It made us feel good to see everyone enjoying themselves and the music of the Al Frantic Band.”

Knight said, “We were so happy to have been asked to be a part of this wonderful and thoughtful event hosted by our friends Leo and Doreen. They did a great job putting this event together, and we hope to see more communities not only in Milton, but everywhere, follow their example. During this pandemic, our first responders can use all the help they can get. We need to keep them safe and equipped so they can keep us safe.”