(above, l-r) The chief chefs: Troy Pytell, Ronni Stein, Fire Chief Al Gallo, Scott Stevens (NJ Devils), President Craig Tuma, and Joe Cerami. Photo by Frank Reilly
Stirling Firefighters Annual Venison Dinner 2020
Stirling Volunteer Fire Co. held the 21st annual Venison Dinner on Saturday, February 29, 2020, in their firehouse where more than 200 people feasted on a variety of venison specialties that were prepared by Stirling’s firefighter chefs.
Chairman of this annual fund raiser was Fire Chief – Chef Al Gallo who was assisted by more than 25 Stirling firefighters. Additional chefs were fire company President Craig Tuma, Past President Albert Pepe, Troy Pytell, Ronni Stein, Joe Cerami, and several coworkers.
A special helper this year was National Hockey League superstar and former NJ Devils Captain Scott Stevens. He enjoyed mingling with the attendees and was pleased to stop for photos.
Almost 700 hours was spent by the firefighters preparing for the event, including setting up, cooking, staffing the event, and cleaning-up afterward. The income they earned helps pay for training, firefighting equipment, and maintenance of the firehouse that is owned by the Stirling firefighters.
Guests who came to enjoy the meal and comradery came from central and northern New Jersey and all enthusiastically reported it is always one of the best and most enjoyable events of the year. They rated the food with 5-stars and said they eagerly look forward to next year’s venison dinner at the firehouse.
(above, l-r) Servers taking a break: Deputy Fire Chief John Whitmore, Ciro D’Urso, Chris Hoffman, Alex Honegger, Sebastian Leon, Lt. Antonio Centurion, Nick Giglio, and Brian Di Donna. Missing from the photo are Jack Dede, Jack Remington, and Jeff Wanamaker.
(above, l-r) Raffle drawing time: Anthony Pepe, Al Gallo, Craig Tuma, and seated at far right Vic Tagliaferro prepare to announce the winners. Photo by Frank Reilly
