Beef, Beer and the Beat at Perkiomen Fire Co.'s First-Ever Winter Bash

The garage transformed into party central Saturday night as the firefighters, their friends, family and fellow community members gathered for their first beef-and-beer fundraiser.

Attendees' dinner plates were heaving with food selected from the buffet tables, the alcoholic--and non-alcoholic--beverages were flowing freely and popular cover band kept the crowd singing and dancing for most of the evening. The event also featured a 50/50 raffle.

Volunteer firefighter Tommy Keene--who also served as the bash's "official spokesperson"-- said both advance and at-the-door ticket sales were going well, and that he hoped to have more than 150 guests attend. Keene, who is part of The Insiders road crew, had a hand getting the band to the event. "I asked them to participate, and they were interested in the event, so they said yes," he said.
He was already mulling ideas for next year's second annual bash, and as for this year, "I hope it's a success and everyone has fun," Keene said.

Even with all the fun that was had, attendees said the biggest reason for coming was to help the local fire company.

"They all work hard and are underpaid," said Kimberly Lesher-Lattanzi, who was there with her husband, West Conshohocken firefighter John Lattanzi.

"I know so many firefighters (from companies) in Harleysville, Conshy and Perkiomen. I'm here to support them," said Debbie Mason, of Harleysville. Her son, who is now serving in Afghanistan, was also a volunteer firefighter.