MOSCA – On Saturday, July 27, the Mosca Volunteer Fire Department held its annual community barbecue.
There was a slight breeze in the air, and approximately 100 people were standing in line outside the firehouse, awaiting their turn for some delicious barbecue, served by the firefighters. The department served beans, roasted pork, coleslaw, mashed potatoes, and a slice of bread with the dinner. There were also several beverages available, including ice water and lemonade.
Just inside the fire department were long benches and tables set up for the people who attended, to eat comfortably and socialize with their family and friends. Volunteer firefighters could be seen serving plates of food to the public and smiling.
Many of the children who attended the barbecue could be seen jumping on the back of a fire truck and taking a ride with a gentleman who was all smiles, driving up and down the road, honking and flashing the lights.
Volunteer fire department chief Blaine Witherspoon spoke about the barbecue and the department.
“We have 24 firefighters including myself, that’s about all we have room for right now. We have had two guys on the waiting list for a little over a year now, and we appreciate that. We started this hamburger fry about 25 years ago, to get the community here to show them our appreciation and that we are here to protect them. We switched over to barbecue about 15 years ago, and it’s been a big hit ever since. We have always just made enough at the barbecue to do it again next year. We were able to also buy new tables and chairs, and seat more people here,” he said.
Chief Witherspoon explained that it is not really a fundraising event, as they only take a donation for the food, but the event has helped the department buy some new equipment.
“It’s just a nice way to bring the community together and show the community that the fire department appreciates them too,” he said.
Chief Witherspoon stated that he was excited to see a big turnout at the event this year.
“This is the first time we have had to lay tables on the other side of the building. It was a good turnout last year too, but about 10 of us weren’t able to attend because we were out on a call, and by the time we got back, well it was all over,” he stated with a chuckle.
Chief Witherspoon stated that he wants the public to know that they are there to serve if they are needed.
“We hope that they don’t need us, but if they do, we are coming,” he said.
Alamosa resident, Jose Rodriguez was at the barbecue and stated that he has attended for about the past five years.
“I like to come and show my support and donate to the department. My sister lives here in Mosca, and she had to call the fire department a few years back, and they saved her house before anything bad happened to it. Firefighters are important, this is a nice barbecue that they put on every year, hopefully people come out, and donate and show their support to such a worthy cause,” he said.
