North Thompson Valley, volunteer fire departments from Clearwater, Little Fort, Vavenby, Blackpool, and Upper Clearwater gathered together on Saturday, July 15 to host a BBQ luncheon in the parking lot of Buy Low Foods. The aim of the BBQ was to raise funds for the local volunteer fire departments, and to provide information to the community about local FireSmart preparedness and prevention efforts that can be made by both the departments and residents.