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01/20/2017 02:27 PMFor many years, Barbara and Mike Mullen have given of their time and talent to their hometown. Now, their neighbors, friends and especially their extended "family" of Branford Fire Department (BFD) and Lenny's Indian Head Inn, are rallying the community to help the Mullens in a time of need.
In treatment for cancer since September, Barbara Mullen has undergone hospitalizations and will have to face another surgery as part of her ongoing battle. She's had to leave her work at Premiere Subaru in Branford and also misses her time playing in the Branford Town Band, says event co-organizer and BFD Assistant Fire Chief/Fire Marshal Shaun Heffernan.
"Both of them have donated their time and volunteered their time for many different events over the years, with Barb being a member of the Town Band and Mike being a volunteer member of the Fire Department in Indian Neck for over 40 years," said Heffernan.
Mullen is Captain of Indian Neck/Pine Orchard Vol. Co. 9. Mullen has also been a Lenny's barkeep for about 30 years.
On Wednesday, Feb. 1, BFD and Lenny's will host "A Fundraiser for Barbara and Mike" at Lenny's Indian Head Inn, 205 South Montowese St. from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. All proceeds will help the Mullens defray medical bills and other expenses which are mounting.
"A lot of people in Branford know Barb because they bought their car through her," said Heffernan. "Unfortunately, she hasn't been able to work for months."
The Mullens are members of Branford's multi-generation firefighting family, which also included Mike's late father, former Branford Fire Chief Peter Mullen, and late brother, former Branford Fire Deputy Chief Ron Mullen.
"A lot of people that go to Lenny's don't realize Mike's dedication with the fire department. He's going into his 43rd year," said Heffernan. "Volunteers like Mike, they're working a full time job; then putting in all the time they dedicate to the fire department outside of those hours. "
Organizers are hoping to fill Lenny's with supporters on February 1. Tickets, $50, include full dinner, complimentary Bud draft and house wine, live music with the Wayne & Chris Duo, raffle prizes and a silent auction. Tickets can be purchased in advance at Lenny's or by contacting Heffernan at the fire house at (203) 488-7266 or via email sent to heff@branfordfire.com
Donations are also gratefully accepted from those who may not be able to attend, but want to help, said Heffernan.
"We've had a lot of people buy tickets already, and people send in donations who can't make it. We're also getting a lot of support from businesses for the silent auction," Heffernan said. "Mike and Barb have done so much for the town. There's a strong desire for people to finally have the opportunity to help them out as well."