Achievers & Accolades

South River EMC donates $9,030 grant to Fire Chiefs Association

By Staff Report, posted 1 year ago
Pictured from left to right are Fort Liberty Assistant Chief David Volk, Cumberland County Emergency Services Director Gene Booth, Fort Liberty Fire Inspector Stacey Palmiter, Cumberland County Fire Marshal Kevin Lowther, President of Cumberland County Fire Chiefs Association Freddy Johnson, Fayetteville Fire Department Fire Captain Stephen Shakeshaft and Fort Liberty Fire Chief Scott McGuire. Photo provided by: Cumberland County.

South River Electric Membership Corporation (EMC) presented a check for $9,030 to the Cumberland County Fire Chiefs Association to support Emergency Services and its fire prevention education initiatives.

South River EMC Vice President of Member Services and Public Relations Catherine O’Dell made the donation to Fire Chiefs Association President Freddy Johnson, Sr., at the Cumberland County Emergency Operations Center Sept. 23. The grant is part of South River EMC’s Operation Round Up program.

 “We are incredibly grateful for the generous grant provided to the Cumberland County Fire Chiefs Association’s Fire & Life Safety Committee,” said Johnson in a press release. “This support allows us to provide essential fire safety materials to elementary school students, particularly those in grades K-2, focusing on home fire safety. We thank South River EMC for helping us educate and protect the future of our community.”

"South River EMC’s generous contribution to the Fire Chiefs Association not only enhances our ability to educate young students about fire safety but also strengthens our commitment to protecting the lives of our community members” said Cumberland County Fire Marshal Kevin Lowther in a press release. “Together, we are building a safer future for Cumberland County."

About the grant: The Fire & Life Safety Committee of the Cumberland County Fire Chiefs Association is dedicated to enhancing fire and life safety education across all Cumberland County departments. The committee organizes multiple public educational events throughout the year. Funding for age-appropriate materials has been a challenge, but with the support of South River EMC’s Operation Round Up Program, these events can continue to make a meaningful impact.

Ico insights

INSIGHTS

SPONSORS' CONTENT
fayetteville-technical-community-college dr-mark-sorrells headshott

Workforce Pipelines for a Growing Economy

Dr. Mark Sorrells - President, Fayetteville Technical Community College
cape-fear-valley-health hannah-simpson-racr headshott

Broaden your horizons at Cape Fear Valley Health

Hannah Simpson, RACR - Senior Campus Recruiter and Community Partnership Liaison, Cape Fear Valley Health
highstreet-warren-insurance-group taylor-warren headshott

Are your adventures covered? Coverage tips for your RV, ATV and boat

Taylor Warren - President, Highstreet Warren Insurance Group

In The Current Issue

Fulfilling community needs: Fayetteville dynamic duo built three businesses on a passion for food and community

Brian and Staci Graybill opened their third business together, Market Square Pantry, in December 2025. Photo provided by Faith Hatton. For Fayetteville entrepreneurs Brian and Staci Graybill, building a business has often started when they were


226 The Warehouse: A space designed for every occasion

The venue features two levels, two fully stocked bars, audio-video systems including projectors, and lighting solutions, an in-house culinary team, lounge space, a bistro section and private rooms, a state-of-the-art DJ booth and on-site staff to hel


Catering from the heart: Family-owned Two Brothers Catering keeps community hearts and stomachs full

Brad and Kelley McLawhorn became business partners in 2001 when they first opened a restaurant on Reilly Road. Now, their highly praised catering company continues to impress community members with flexibility, quality and personalized service. Photo