The annual "WSFC Pride" banquet was held this evening at The Revere Tavern in Paradise. The night began with a fantastic meal including crab and lobster stuffed flounder, prime rib, fried chicken (for Chief Reese) and other great items.

After dinner was completed the annual awards were given out. The following were recipients for the year 2009:

Chief’s Award - Past Chief Dave Reese gave an emotional speech highlighting the past 10 years. He became Chief in 1999 and through the years was instrumental in implementing new programs and bring the Fire Company to where it is today. Dave dedicated the 2009 Chief’s Award to all the members of the Company who made us what we are today. Of course Dave will be continuing to support the new Chief Mike Reese as Deputy Chief.

President’s Award - President Donnelly awarded the 2009 President’s Award to Township Supervisor Barry Hershey for his willingness to become the liaison between the Township Government and the Fire Companies. Supervisor Hershey has put forth many selfless hours helping the organizations work together.

Life Membership Cards were given to Dottie Donnelly, Erla Stoltzfus and Gary "Louie" Todd.

Firefighter of the Year - This award was presented by the last three recipients who were Dave Reese, Craig Rhineer Jr, and Seth Anastasio. They selected Treasurer Ralph Stoltzfus. Ralph is our go-to-guy on anything financial. He makes sure that the Company is financially responsible and puts in many hours. He also is an active firefighter and he understands our needs as we move to the future.

After the awards were given out the annual slide show was presented. A special thanks goes to the photographers that respond on a majority of our calls and document them as we work. Those photographers are Tom Amico, Greg Leaman and Woody Woodward.

The night rounded out with DJ Chuck Colson spinning some music. A great time was had by all and thanks goes to Captain Rhineer and his wife Jen along with the others that helped put the banquet together. The atmosphere, food and fun was unmatched!

Another thank you to Gap Fire Company for standing by for us and handling a confinement accident while we enjoyed ourselves.