Numbers down at annual Super Bowl dinner

Volunteer members at the Shepherdstown Volunteer Fire Department served up a Super Bowl dinner on Sunday in the fire hall, prior to the kickoff of the L.A. Rams and Cincinnati Bengals match-up. Toni Milbourne
SHEPHERDSTOWN — Every year for more than 30 years, the Shepherdstown Volunteer Fire Department has welcomed community members to their Super Bowl dinner, held the afternoon prior to the biggest football game of the pro season.
This year was no exception, although the number of attendees was down a bit, according to company treasurer Denny Barron.
Despite the smaller crowd on Sunday afternoon, those who chose to venture out enjoyed a delicious meal of ham and chicken, chicken livers, mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, rolls and assorted cakes and cookies.
“It was a delicious meal,” said Edna Thomas, who traveled from Purcellville, Va. to enjoy the dinner with local family members.
Thomas ordered an extra to take home for her husband, as well.
“He loves fried chicken, and this was really well done,” Thomas said.
The dinner was served by members of the department who volunteer their time at fundraisers such as this one to help raise money for their department.
“I enjoy everything about being at the station,” said Gabe Jennier, who at 17 is one of the youngest Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) in the state “Volunteering like this allows me to meet community members.”
“This event is a great ‘public relations’ gathering,” contributed Chief Ross Morgan.
“It is the only ‘just dinner’ we do as a fundraiser,” added Barron, who explained that other events incorporate a meal with other activities such as the sportsman bashes, bingo and the apple butter festival.
The original idea for the dinner preceding the football game was developed by Terry Penwell and Larry Fritts, according to Barron.
Funds raised at the annual dinner are placed into the company’s general fund budget which covers multiple monthly costs the company must cover. The work of the volunteers to help raise funds for the department is paramount in allowing Company 3 to continue to provide fire and medical services to the Shepherdstown community and beyond.
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.