BBQ sells out at Pipe Creek VFD fundraiser

The Pipe Creek Volunteer Fire Department (PCVFD) held a very successful barbeque fundraiser last Sunday, October 9. Assistant Chief Donnie Fried commented the Fire Department ordered 600 pounds of brisket and 10 cases of sausage this year for the luncheon, and both were sold out by 1:00 p.m..

The firefighters increased their meat order by 100 pounds from last year and were surprised the barbeque was such a hit.

“We are usually sold out by 2:00 or 3:00 p.m,” said firefighter Zach Ledzius.

With lines to get the barbeque sometimes stretching out to the street, the department added a second service line to the luncheon this year to eliminate waiting.

The department also helped patrons in parking this year. A PCVFD firefighter showed his safety skills as he directed traffic in front of the Fire House and helped patrons find a place to park in the crowded lot or on the highway.

The BBQ crew began prepping the meat at 5 p.m. on Saturday evening and cooked throughout the night until the 11:00 a.m. start time. While the crew looked a little wilted at noon on Sunday, they still had energy to keep the food flowing to hungry patrons.

Forty-six-year Pipe Creek Fire Department veteran Alan Meyer was in charge of making the barbeque rub, the barbeque sauce and the pinto beans. It just goes to show that experience makes the barbeque delicious. The beans slowly simmered in huge iron kettles over open fires as the aroma of the slow-cooked meat wafted through the hall.

Pipe Creek residents Lillian Butcher and Patty Smith agreed the lunch “was great, very good barbeque.”

The department opened overflow seating in the Fire House to accommodate the over-abundance of diners who came to enjoy the meal.

Firefighter Zach Ledzius explained the money made from this annual fundraiser helps the department with day-to-day expenses like vehicle maintenance and utilities for the Fire House. He commented PCVFD does not receive state or federal aid to help with expenses.

The market under the trees was home to a dozen vendors selling all manner of items from handmade native American crafts to crocheted figures to canned preserves. The vendors were eager to help patrons and explain about their products.

Crochet artist Janice Flores, a former cafeteria lady, said she first began crocheting fruits and vegetables to encourage students to try those foods. She had a large variety of large and small soft goods for sale. Her most popular item was her whimsical chicken nuggets. The plush figures were sure to delight children as Christmas gifts.

A special thank you goes to Title Sponsor, Waterboyz.

A large raffle was also held in conjunction with the barbeque dinner. The Fire Department would like to thank the donors of the raffle items for their support.

Donors were: Bandera and Lakehills True Value stores, Bandera Ranch Store, EZ Landscaping Solutions, Propane Depot, Good Guys Firearms, Otten Brothers Taxidermy, Bandera Mini Mart, Country Accents Antiques, Lucy’s Barbeque, TJ’s at the Old Forge, Beverly Peters, Gleason Goods and Services, and Backyard Bistro.

For more information on how to support the Pipe Creek Volunteer Fire Department, go to www. pipecreekvolfire.org