Don’t let the size of Manor fool you.
According to the 2016 census, the village of Manor is home to 295 people and as you may expect, there are not many amenities. The businesses, school, post office and town office are great for this little community, but you would never expect to find the fire hall that is tucked in just off the main street.
You may argue that it is just the typical little building for a town that size. It is what is inside that will blow you away.
Ten of the most genuine, happy, accepting people welcomed the picture taking, answered the questions and were more than happy to share stories. It became evident that this was a young, eager team of volunteers ready to learn, train and serve.
Katrina Zandee, the only female in the crew, laughed as she said “I have known all these guys my whole life and I just go right into the situation when needed.” Even if there is fear, Zandee said she knows it will be good because of their communication and sticking together. She was disappointed that her and her fellow firefighters would not be able to go to their first level of training in Redvers.
“And I feel bad for Redvers, that they were chosen to host and then it was cancelled because of COVID.”
Deputy Chief Brayden Rowley shared how keeping his community and the surrounding communities safe was his reason for seeing what was involved and now, “It’s a blast!” he said.
Rowley shared that they have gained quite a few members in the last few years, sharing an astonishing list of 18 volunteers. As some of the crew stood around the table, they realized they had one person who had been a member for 10 years. Most of the members were four years or less. Eyes lit up as they talked about the blazes they put out and the ones they assisted with, grateful that no one has been injured in any of them.
Like all volunteer fire departments, equipment starts out as hand-me-downs that may or may not fit and “gently used” machinery that needs a lot of maintenance, so there is always the need for new, basic equipment to enable them to serve the community well. COVID temporarily shut down Chase the Ace and barbecue fundraisers for a bit, but with money raised over the last two years they have gotten some new turnout gear. Last week they finished putting together their new grassland unit, putting them at four units total. The department wants to see a new main engine parked in the fire hall one day.
As they find themselves working alongside Carlyle quite often, the team has attended Carlyle’s practice nights to learn and sharpen their skills as well as becoming familiar with their equipment.
When asked what he wanted his community to know about the Manor Fire Department, he responded, “We just want to thank the Village of Manor and surrounding communities for their continued support. Because of you guys, we will see that new engine in the hall someday.”
Camaraderie, heart, willingness to serve. Manor and area, take time this week to thank your first responders, although this crew will not expect it and just be grateful for the chance to help – truly a gift.
Members of the Manor Fire Department are, front row, from left, David Brenner, Curtis Ariss, Adam Lees, Kent Lees, Brayden Rowley, Kruz Wilson, Darcy McCrimmon. Back row, from left, Katrina Zandee, Dustin Bennett and Colin Thul (in the truck). Missing are Tallyn Rowley, Mike Wilson, Bill Shiels, Craig Sevill, Raymond Knockaert, Kim Halvorson, Cody Thul and Dallas Kerr.
