The annual Southeastern Adams Volunteer Emergency Services picnic raises money to help pay for the station s electricity, fuel for the emergency vehicles and equipment maintenance. (FLIPSIDE -- FILE)
At the end of August last year, the remnants of hurricanes came through the Adams County area, bringing storms and rain. The unusual weather forced the cancellation of many events, including the Southeastern Adams Volunteer Emergency Services' annual picnic fundraiser.

The picnic, scheduled to run the entire day, was forced to shut down after just two hours. Although fundraising for SAVES took a hit last year, this year organizers are hoping for good weather and a large turnout at their 16th annual picnic.

"It's a major fundraiser for us," said Tom Weaver, public relations coordinator for SAVES. "It's designed to be an old-fashioned country picnic and fair."

The event, geared for families, boasts relay races, pie-eating contests, and small games of chance. Country band Border Line from New Oxford will provide music. The band has performed numerous times before, and Weaver said they're a popular choice.

"They are well liked by the folks that come out," Weaver said. "We've had

success with them."

Pit beef, chicken barbecue and chicken corn soup made by SAVES volunteers will be for sale, and raffles will be held for, cash prizes and restaurants certificates. Weaver said businesses have donated unique prizes over the years, including a voucher for a hot air balloon ride.

If the weather is good, Weaver expects to see about 2,000 people throughout the course of the day. Although SAVES does other fundraisers throughout the year, this brings in around 15 percent of the total annual fundraising.

The money helps pay for the station's electricity, fuel for the emergency vehicles and equipment maintenance. In 2011, SAVES answered over than 1,000 fire and EMS calls.

"Our mission is to provide the highest quality of fire

prevention and EMS service," Weaver said. "We take that mission very seriously."

SAVES was formed after consolidating four fire companies, and currently employs EMS personnel and around 200 active volunteer firefighters.

Weaver notes that the end of summer is approaching fast, and it's nice to make time for one last outdoor event.

"It's one of the last blasts of summer," Weaver said. "It's a fun time to come out and be part of the community."

IF YOU GO

WHAT: Edge of Town Country Picnic

WHEN: noon to 10 p.m. Saturday

WHERE: Conewago Picnic Woods, Centennial Road, Hanover

DETAILS: Call 637-9621