
The event will take place at Blackwood Terrace Fire Company and offer guests the chance to meet some of their local firefighters.
Deptford council and the Blackwood Terrace Fire Company will host a free neighborhood barbecue for all residents on Saturday, May 31, from noon to 2 p.m.
The company – part of the township’s fire department – will offer food and beverages, and the hope is that anywhere between 200 to 300 people will attend, according to Mayor Paul Medany. Food and beverages will also be free.
“We want to publicize the work of the whole fire department and district,” Medany said. “There are new residents coming in and we want them to know about the fire department, volunteerism, etc.”
The event will be similar to past neighborhood barbecues, including one hosted in Locust Grove last year. Guests will have the opportunity to talk with Deptford firefighters and see the inside of the Blackwood Terrace firehouse, including equipment and a vintage fire truck. Though the barbecue ends at 2, the fire company will remain available until about 4 p.m.
The township is also hoping for attendance by members of the police department so they can bring more attention to the work of all emergency management staff. Other members of the township council and administration will also attend talk with residents.
“It’s great to publicize the work of emergency management personnel,” Medany noted. “I think these events make people become aware of their work. It recognizes the work they do in preparing for emergencies, be it a natural, man-made or other type of emergency.
“These types of events are a fantastic way for people to meet their elected officials,” he added. “It’s all about building community spirit in Deptford.”