×

Sky-High Turnout Aids Fire Company

Cars are pictured lined up around the Sinclairville Volunteer Fire Company No. 1 on Sunday during a chicken barbecue. The fire department plans to hold two more barbecue fundraisers. Photo by Ken Smith

SINCLAIRVILLE — Proof that community support remains strong in the village was evident Sunday.

The Sinclairville Volunteer Fire Company No. 1 hosted a chicken barbecue fundraiser, an event typically organized more for the public looking for good food at a cheap price.

According to Myron Lanphere, president of the fire department, the major source of funds has always been Bingo. However, COVID-19 forced Sinclairville — like many volunteer fire departments — to seek alternatives to raise funds.

Lanphere said Sinclairville turned to its chicken barbecues as a means to raise money during the ongoing pandemic.

During the first fundraiser held earlier, 375 meals were sold. On Sunday, with a line of vehicles stretching around the department, 350 meals sold out.

“When COVID hit, we thought, ‘Let’s try this,'” Lanphere said of using the meals to bring in funds. “They eased some of the restrictions so we figured we’d do it and see what happens. … Well, obviously it works. We never expected it to work the first time we did it.”

The meals consist of a half-chicken, scalloped potatoes, applesauce, roll and cookie for $11. Making the event stand out is that vehicles are able to drive through the fire department’s main bay doors where the meals are provided by volunteers.

“We got our local people who support us and they’re always going to come through,” Lanphere said of the community support.

The fire department is planning to host two additional barbecues.

Newsletter

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *
   

Starting at $4.62/week.

Subscribe Today