GUERNSEY – Things were “All Shook Up” this weekend in Guernsey for the ‘50s themed fundraiser for the fire department.
Attendees were treated to some “oldie’s” music and karaoke by Justin Audiogrinder, a memories photo booth, and plenty of opportunity for visiting and dancing.
A homemade dinner to remember was served, which included a choice of homemade chicken pot pie or roast beef with choice of two potatoes, gravy, glazed carrots, angel food cake, and ‘50s themed drinks.

Over 60 people attended, and $3,500 was raised to benefit local fire departments and an individual who lost a structure during the Pleasant Valley fire in early August. One-fourth of the proceeds went to Karen Anderson to help recover from her loss, one-fourth went to Guernsey Volunteer Fire Department, one-fourth went to Guernsey Rural Fire Department, and one-fourth went to Hartville Volunteer Fire Department.
“It was lots of fun – people dressed up and there was good food. It’s not just about firefighters - we want to raise money for the community with a fun themed event for adults,” Lana Swingholm, one of the organizers said. She, her husband Doug, and business partner Chris Sachanandani of Crazy Tony’s worked with a committee of over a half dozen members in the community to plan the event.
Swingholm added, while Pleasant Valley Fire was burning, there was nearly $15,000 in monetary donations given by the community to support the fire departments fighting the fire. The money was divided evenly between the 15 volunteer departments in the form of a money order through the bank, and at this weekend’s event, were presented to the departments’ representatives who were present. The remainder will be mailed to the departments.
The organizers also invited Guernsey’s Viking Cheer and Tip Toes Dance Team instructors to draw the winner for their Buffalo Hunt fundraiser, which went to Mark Eastman.
“We’d really like to continue doing something like this every year to give back to the community,” Swingolm said, adding they are thinking about a luau theme for next year.