Local firefighters change hats for one evening of fun

Plains City Firefighters took the night off from protecting citizens from wayward blazes but were still hard at work on Saturday as the annual Fireman’s Ball took place at the VFW.

About 150 residents showed up to watch the men serve up plates of Mexican food prepared by wives and girlfriends led by Joann Mathers.

With traditional music playing in the background and wearing themed hats, firefighters delivered plates, filled water glasses and worked the auction before a capacity crowd.

The event included a raffle, live auction conducted by Gene Johnson and live music by local band Dark Horse.

The meal included enchiladas, chile relleno, beans and Spanish rice followed by three choices of cake for dessert.

According to Fire Chief Joe Sheppard, “The ladies worked hard. They probably spent ten hours prepping the first day and a good 12 hours cooking on Saturday.”

A brief raffle overseen by Sheppard was followed by an auction, offering up donations provided by local businesses and residents.

Items such as a lawnmower, rocking chair, decorative plates, original art and an array of gift certificates and baskets lined the table in front of Johnson.

Two rifles were part of the raffle. The 22 caliber Henry rifle went to Gary Pitts of Thompson Falls and the 30.06 rifle went to Dan Rowan of Plains.

The auction was followed by a performance by Dark Horse. The band includes members, Terry Smith, Andrea Mitchell on the bass, Polly Cavill on lead vocals, Brett Barber on lead guitar and David Caselli on the drums.

The band played everything from 70’s rock and roll to contemporary country music. According the bands’ Facebook page, their original music is a blend of country and rock.

The annual Fireman’s Ball serves as a fundraiser for the city of Plains Fire Department. Sheppard said, “ We had a good turnout. We had great food and a great crowd. It went very well.”