Donation to the Soddy Daisy Firefighters Benevolent Fund
photo by Gail Perry
Donations from two organizations were presented to the Soddy Daisy Firefighters Benevolent Fund Thursday night at the Soddy Daisy Commission meeting. Jointly, both the Soddy and Daisy Masonic Lodges raised $400 that was given along with another contribution from the Soddy Daisy Vietnam Veterans chapter 942. The money was added to the fund that will serve over 300 children in need this Christmas.
Each year the Firefighter’s association raises and distributes over $20,000 to provide “Christmas for Kids.” It is a community effort throughout the year with various fundraisers.
A motorcycle ride by the Vietnam Veterans raised $6,000 and people in the community put money in boots that were left at various businesses. Contributions also came from Walmart, Food City and other businesses in Soddy Daisy.
Applications are made by families, and then verified by the United Way. Vouchers are given to parents for each child that qualifies. These are taken to Wal Mart on a designated day for the purchase of gifts. Members of the Firefighters Benevolent Fund are also there to make sure that the gifts are appropriate.
Since 2006 the Daisy Masonic Lodge has donated $23,000 to this fund, and the Vietnam Veterans group has given $19,000.
Brian Wright, CPA with Johnson, Murphey & Wright, P.C. presented the results of the city’s 2014 financial audit which showed that the city is in good shape financially, operating for the year with a $320,680 surplus. The previous year’s audit showed a surplus of $1 million. The difference reflects this year’s purchase of the Big Soddy Creek Gulf. Mr. Wright said that Soddy Daisy also was given an unqualified opinion which means there were no findings of non-compliance. It is the best rating that can be given. He said this shows good internal control thanks to City Recorder Burt Johnson, City Manager Janice Cagle and the department heads.
Director of Public Works Steve Grant asked and received approval to purchase a new snow plow and an additional sprayer. Both will fit onto existing pick- up trucks.
The Soddy Daisy Christmas celebration will take place this weekend. On Saturday, the community event will take place at Poe’s Tavern with coffee, hot chocolate, candy and cookies being served by area churches. Santa will be in the tavern the entire time for photos and will be giving out treats. The Christmas parade will take place Sunday starting at 2 p.m.
Because of a rash of recent break-ins and robberies on the mountain, Commissioner Robert Cothran wanted to remind all citizens to be mindful of their surroundings at all times, lock doors when leaving home and to set burglar alarms.
The commissioners voted to cancel the commission meeting scheduled for Dec. 17 because of no immediate business. The next meeting of the Soddy Daisy Commission will be Jan 7, 2016, at 7 p.m.