MOUNT CARMEL - The Anthracite Steam Fire Company held its annual banquet Feb. 19 in honor of its most famous fire horse, Prince.
The event honors and remembers the fine tradition of Mount Carmel's first fire company by memorializing its first fire horse. Born Feb. 22, 1886, this year marks Prince's 125th birthday.
Guest speaker was James Catino, who served as the City of Shamokin's fire chief from 2009 to 2010. A supervisor of career and technical education at Lancaster County Career and Technology Center, Catino spoke on the subject of leadership. A state fire instructor since 1994 and Pennsylvania Department of Health instructor since 1996, he has been a member of the Shamokin Fire Bureau since 1985 and is a member of Rescue Squad 60.
During the evening, the George Hancock Memorial Award was presented to Edward Kinn. Currently serving as a company trustee, Kinn is an active firefighter and chauffeur. The award is in honor and memory of the former Mount Carmel fire chief and longtime company treasurer.
The Rev. Joan Brown of Grace United Church of Christ gave the invocation and benediction. Company President James Williams Sr. presented the Hancock Award and introduced the Anthracite officers. David Berezovske served as master of ceremonies. The banquet was catered by M & M Sandwich Shop of Ashland. Centerpieces were made and donated by Gregory and Paula Grebush. The evening's entertainment was provided by the band R.A.T.L.
Besides Williams, the Anthracite's officers for 2011 are Barbara Wagner, vice president; Berezovske, recording secretary; Marilyn Williams, financial secretary; Eric Troutman, treasurer; Ronald Kerestes, Kinn and Jack Williams Sr., trustees, and Richard Polomski, sergeant-at-arms.
Truck room officers are John Williams Jr., borough fire chief; James Williams Sr., captain; Michael Kotzo and Sean Williams, lieutenants, and Jack Williams Sr., chief engineer.
The Anthracite, which was organized May 12, 1882, is Mount Carmel's oldest fire company. It was chartered Sept. 4, 1882. The company currently operates a 2003 KME 1500 GPM Engine and 1980 Seagrave 100 foot aerial ladder truck. Last November, the company purchased a 2011 KME Aerialcat 100 foot aerial ladder truck, which will replace the Seagrave.
In 2012, the company will co-host the 109th Six-County Firemen's Association convention in Mount Carmel with Park Row Hose Company No. 3, of Wallington, N.J.
Anyone interested in becoming a member of the Anthracite should contact the company during business hours.
