BINGO … Dave Eicher (right) and Gary Esterline (left) call out bingo numbers during the Archbold Fire Department’s annual Feather Party.
PHOTOS BY JACOB KESSLER / THE VILLAGE REPORTER
BAKE SALE … The “Archbold Firemaids” offer baked goods during the department’s annual Feather Party.
By: Jacob Kessler
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
jacob@thevillagereporter.com
The Archbold Fire Department welcomed a full house on Saturday, November 22nd, as community members gathered at the K of C Hall for the department’s annual Feather Party. The fundraiser ran from 5:30 p.m. to around 9:00 p.m. and brought in a strong crowd that filled the hall early in the evening.
Fire Chief Dave Davis explained that this year’s proceeds are earmarked for an important equipment purchase. “It is an annual fundraiser we do to help supplement equipment,” he said.
“This year, the funds are all being designated to upgrade our gator. Our gator has some age to it, so that is what we are looking at doing this year.”
The department’s current gator plays a critical role in rural response efforts. Chief Davis shared that it is equipped with a pump and tank for fighting field and woods fires and includes a side Stokes basket used to transport individuals from hard-to-reach areas.
“We have actually gone back into fields and brought people out that have had medical emergencies or have hurt themselves.
“We have done search and rescue with it. It is just a convenient thing to have, considering we live in a rural community,” he said. Chief Davis, who has been a part of thirty-three feather parties, noted that this year’s turnout was especially strong.
The hall filled earlier than usual as families, friends, and supporters arrived to take part in the evening’s activities. “We have got a really nice crowd out tonight,” he said.
The event featured bingo, kids’ games, and a variety of prizes donated by local businesses. A Chinese auction offered additional opportunities for attendees to win items, while food options such as hot sandwiches, chips, and pop were available throughout the evening. A 50/50 drawing rounded out the festivities.
The feather party remains one of the department’s most anticipated community events, blending tradition, family-friendly activities, and vital support for the equipment that helps keep Archbold safe.