Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - Firefighters and lifeguards here in Puerto Vallarta seemingly do miracles with nothing. The dedication of these first-responders to emergency services is unmatched. These are heroes who walk among us never looking for glory or praise.

Although they don't seek recognition for their thoughtful and caring ways, it's our time to reciprocate and say thanks, and the Puerto Vallarta community - residents and visitors - did just that on Sunday, November 20, 2016.

200 people enjoyed the Annual Spaghetti 'Friend-Raiser,' which raised over 70,000 pesos. In addition to enjoying great food, entertainment by Jaime and a facility tour, the generous guests donated several kilos of items, like sterile gloves, non-perishable food, cleaning supplies, ace wraps and more; bought 50/50 raffle tickets, and bid in the live auction for great prizes.

Donors to the annual event included Anonimo, Apaches Martini Bar & Bistro, Bravos Restaurant Bar, CasaMagna Marriott Resort & Spa, Crown Paradise Golden, Judith St. Gaudens, Hacienda Buenaventura Hotel & Beach Club, Hilton Puerto Vallarta Resort, Hotel Friendly Vallarta, La Piazetta, Los Muertos Brewing, Nacho Daddy, No Way José!, Paradise Village Beach Resort, PV Cupcakes by Tori, Reinas, Salud Super Food, Secrets Vallarta Bay, Sheraton Buganvilia Resort & Convention Center, Villa Premiere Boutique Hotel and Westin Resort & Spa Puerto Vallarta.

Committee members included Pam Thompson, Cindy Duchateau Ramirez, Kelly Trainor, Eden Brizio, Tim Longpré and Gary Green.

"Funds generated from today's fundraiser will be earmarked to purchase much-needed supplies for our parademics," commented Cmdte. Adrian Eliseo Bobadilla Garcia, Sub-Director of Protección Civil and the Bomberos. Earlier this year, 300,000 pesos were raised through the sale of the 2016 Heroes Calendar featuring the men and women of the Puerto Vallarta Fire Department. Funds from the calendar were used for a series of local, national and international training programs.

Funds and supplies are needed year-round. Email info(at)bomberoscalendar.com to learn more about Puerto Vallarta Fire Department volunteer and fund raising opportunities.