Residents of Mount Airy arrived carrying their own lawn chairs for a community meeting at Frank Fleming Body Shop, reflecting a shared concern over recent fire department closures. Fleming, a candidate for county commissioner, underscored a fire study that had recommended safeguarding volunteer firefighters—advice that appears to have been overlooked before shutting down two local departments.

The Clark Mills Fire Department has received a generous grant from the Hamilton College Town Gown Fund. Department officials, who rely on volunteer firefighters, expressed their thanks as they plan to enhance emergency capabilities and local fire services.

The South Greene Volunteer Fire Department is conducting its annual door-to-door fund drive this week, seeking community support for its vital services.