Firewagon e-News July 2010:
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Happy New Year Folks,
In the last newsletter, I relayed the status of the Firewagon and mentioned changes were in the wind. Well, 2010 is underway and this year promises to be one of many changes, personally, professionally and on the “giving back” (volunteer) fronts. As mentioned, when one door closes another will open. What “door” that will be – only time will tell.
In the last part of 2009, Shelley and I, along with the many dedicated volunteers (and friends) took a much deserved break! This gave us time to relax, rejuvenate and reflect. Upon reflection, it’s now time for me to put the Firewagon out to pasture… yup, time to retire from it since I’m on a “retiring” roll!
For 14 years, I’ve dedicated a BIG part of my life to this effort. It was very rewarding, especially raising over $200,000 for worthy southern Alberta charities. Plus, meeting all the exceptional folks who many have since become friends. However, the past two years, I along with many others have experienced a “shift” when it comes to getting the dollars rolling in. Many of us (yes, couldn’t do it without those “key” volunteers) just aren’t having that much fun with it anymore. It’s become “work” and since I’m retired, I don’t need any more “work”.
That being said, I’m not stopping from living (or working)… my motto is “I live to work vs. work to live”. I’ve recently been appointed to the Board of Directors for Jasper Mining Inc. You can check it out at
Jasper Mining and it’s on the TSX as JSP. If you’re interested in knowing more, I’d be happy to chat with you about it.
The other “work” part of my life is continuing to build my fireplace company with Quick Fire Fireplaces. So, if you or someone you know is looking for a fireplace (wood & gas stove, gas fireplaces & insert, high efficient furnace or full service Plumbing), give me a call at 403-938-6596 or check out my new website at
Quickfire Fireplaces.
First Class Carriages is in operation too. My beautiful white horses and Cinderella carriage are gearing up for the summer season. We’re available for weddings, parades, family reunions and special events. Already I have quite a few weddings booked and need to spend some training time with my “girls” (the horses) getting them in shape. If anyone wants to come and help me with the horses that would be cool too… on a warm day, you’ll find me out back practising… just give me a call before you come. Go to
First Class Carriages
As the saying goes “charity begins at home” and we have a lot of work to do on the home front too. In the past two years, we’ve renovated our home and that got us on a roll! Shelley and I have plans to finish the barn and work on sprucing up our Willard’s Whisky Hill Farm, (that is - once we secure the MD’s approvals). So, who knows… the next event may very well happen in our barn?! How about a good old fashioned “barn dance” and BBQ in the comforts of a cozy old barn? We’re also planning on having barn/yard sales, of collectables on a few weekends in the spring and summer. More to come – we’ll keep you posted on the progress as it happens.
So, my friends, this is the end of the trail for the Firewagon. However, with that being said, what do you do with approximately 500 shirts, jackets, t-shirts, buckles, watches, etc… in inventory? Any ideas?! If so, give me a call and let’s talk about it. 2010 will be your last time to get Firewagon wear. They are still for sale ,Hey, if your company or group is hosting a Stampede function, perhaps they all want to be decked out in the Firewagon shirts?! I’m open to offers and it’s negotiable!
In honour of the Firewagon, we want to keep the website up for awhile. We welcome your pictures, stories, words of wisdom and comments… you get the idea. In the near future, we’ll be updating the website to reflect the legacy of the Firewagon.
On Thursday, March 4th I won’t be at the annual Calgary Stampede Rangeland Derby Chuckwagon auction. I wish all of those that attend “good luck”. This doesn’t mean that I won’t be at the chuckwagon races… hell no! I’ll be there with bells on! I’m one of the greatest chuckwagon fans of all time…. I just won’t be the one doing the “heavy lifting” in the back stretch (or back at the barns)!
You’ll find me (along with Shelley and a few other “die-hards”) on the tarmac sipping a cold one and cheering on the drivers as they race around that figure 8! Hopefully, we’ll also have a chance to check out some of the races at places around Alberta and Saskatchewan. We’ve made many good friends along the way and now’s the time to enjoy some of those friendships too.
I couldn’t have done it without the help of many many now good friends! A BIG HEARTFELT THANKS to everyone… the volunteers, the entertainers, the dedicated Firewagon members, board of directors, sponsors, friends, family, suppliers and supporters. See you along the trail… until then, keep well and keep the faith!
Thank you kindly,
Blake Willard
Firewagon Founder
Canadian Firewagon Chuckwagon Association
PS: When in the area pop in… the coffee’s hot & the beer’s cold!
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Firewagon “FIRE” Sale
o Roper Shirts @ $30/each
o Ranch Coats @ $125/each
o T-shirts @ $15/each or 2 for $25
o Buckles @ $75
o Limited Edition Numbered Buckles @ $125
o Chuckwagon Watches @ $125
To purchase, contact:
Blake Willard @ 403-606-8059
Blake's Email
Last Updated February 22rd, 2010
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