For the first time since the Covid pandemic, the Paskmansett Engine Company and the firefighters of Dartmouth Fire District 3 hosted their annual suckling pig dinner on Saturday, August 17th.
Despite the break, this was the 15th event of its kind held by the engine company and, according to Nick Livesey, the engine company’s president, it has been run in a fairly consistent manner since its inception.
However, due to staffing shortages, this year’s event was hosted by Dale Bishop’s Pig Pickin’ rather than roasted by the firefighters themselves, Livesey said.
“We want to raise money for our engine company, which is a nonprofit that all firefighters belong to, and we use the money to support the community,” he said.
The company conducts a series of fundraising events and then awards scholarships to students as well as funds to needy charities and department members, he added.
According to Devin Madeira, treasurer of the engine company, the department normally expects about 300 people at its event, but this year the number was 275.
“It’s good to have it back,” Madeira said.
Firefighter Corey Pimmental and Captain Garth McNamara stood in the sun behind the fire station, emphasizing the community aspect of the event.
“It’s a great day – a beautiful day – a beautiful day for a suckling pig dinner,” said Pimmental. “It’s nice to see everyone here helping out.”
He added how much he enjoyed welcoming everyone to the station. “The volunteers are doing a great job.”
McNamara said, “It gives people an insight into what we do and brings the community together.”
At a table in the fire station, Hailee Howland and firefighter Peter Howland were enjoying their department’s first suckling pig dinner.
Hailee said, “I think it’s nice that they’re doing something for the community and encouraging people to come along. It’s nice for the kids to see the vehicles and it inspires a new generation of firefighters.”
“It’s a great opportunity to bring the families together, bring the community to the firehouse and really have fun,” Peter said, adding, “Good people, good food (and) a good time.”
