Community members enjoy the 28th Annual Super Bowl dinner at Shepherdstown Volunteer Fire Department. Toni Milbourne

SHEPHERDSTOWN — The Shepherdstown Fire Department hosted their annual super bowl dinner on Sunday afternoon, ahead of the big match-up between the New England Patriots and the Los Angeles Rams.

The event has been held at the station since 1991, a year after the company constructed its current facility.

“It was the idea of Terry Penwell and Larry Fritts,” said Dennis Barron, treasurer for Company 3.

“It’s the only ‘just dinner’ we do as a fundraiser,” Barron said, mentioning that other events that incorporate a meal at the department, include sportsman bashes, bingos and the apple butter festival.

Sunday’s meal, consisting of ham and chicken, mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, rolls and assorted cakes, was served by members of the department. The members planned to serve up to 300 individuals; however, Barron indicated he thought it would be more like 225 Sunday.

The company hosts multiple fundraisers throughout the year to help supplement state and local funding for the volunteer department. The funds raised from Sunday’s dinner were placed in the general budget fund, which covers a myriad of costs the department faces monthly.

“It’s also a community event,” said Chief Ross Morgan, before adding he feels very fortunate to be in the county he is in.

“We take care of our community,” Ross said, as the volunteers regularly provide fire and rescue service not only to the immediate Shepherdstown area but the remainder of Jefferson County. They also assist Berkeley County and Washington County, Maryland when needed.

“We take care of them, and they take care of us,” Morgan said, referring to those who join in the fundraising events such as Sunday’s dinner.

Many Shepherdstown residents turned out Sunday to enjoy the pre-game meal, as well as some who traveled in from around the county. All came because they support the efforts of the volunteer departments and realize the benefit gained by the community from those who serve.

“I always go the Super Bowl dinner,” said county resident Diane Viands, who attended with her mother. “I try to always support the local fire companies. I know how hard it is to fundraise.”

Laughingly, she added, “Plus, the food is always good!”

The department’s next special event will be a 50-game bingo with dinner on April 6, followed on April 27 by a Chicken Barbecue and Cruise In.

“This is the first time we will do this event,” said Barron.

More information on events at the fire station can be found on the SVFD website. The company opens the facility to others who host fundraising events, as well.