Union Fire Company at Blackwood Terrace Firehouse in Deptford hosted its first summer block party on June 10 in what was simultaneously a community event and a way to raise money for the firehouse.
That firehouse was loaded with tables and chairs both inside the station itself and in the driveway. Fire trucks were moved over to an offsite location for the duration of the party.
A $35 ticket included access to two varieties of beer on tap.
“This is the first year we’re doing it,” said a representative from the firehouse asked to remain anonymous. “We’re hoping to make this a yearly thing, and I think it will be good for the community.”
Food was prepared onsite by volunteers, including roast beef, meatballs and pasta. The station also sold maroon T-shirts worn by members with the firehouse logo on the front and a firetruck on the back, as well as the year the fire company was founded, 1915. Members of the Union company
While patrons were mingling and eating, live music was performed by the local band It Is What It Is, a classic rock cover group.
Among the event’s attendees was Deptford councilman Ken Barnshaw, school board President Joe McKenna, Deputy Mayor Tom Huffnell and Mayor Paul Medany.
“It’s bringing the community together, but more importantly, it’s making people aware of the fire company itself,” Medany noted. “First of all, what they do (is) protect the community and also get volunteers here, and volunteers of all kinds. You don’t have to fight fires, but you can just come here and help out.
“It’s fantastic stuff for the whole community,” he added of the party, “not just for Blackwood Terrace, but for all of Deptford, because it makes folks aware. First of all, be aware of our first responders and what they do on a daily basis and then also, like I said, it’s the center of the community.”
