Fire company holds fundraiser to benefit injured farmer

It’s not only the men and women on the front lines who make a fire company tick.

Volunteers behind the scene are crucial to the success of any department. At Mahoning Valley Volunteer Fire Company, there may not be a bigger behind-the-scenes guy than Terry Everett.

The local farmer’s right hand was seriously injured Oct. 19, when his sleeve got caught in a corn picker. Everett’s friends at the fire company have organized a spaghetti dinner Jan. 19 to help him and his family in the recovery effort.

“Terry has helped out the fire company behind closed doors by working on equipment,” said Neal Ebbert. “He was a big part of getting our Hahn truck back on the road. We just wanted to do something for him. He’s been a big fire company supporter for a number of years.”

According to a GoFundMe for Everett, surgeons managed to save his arm, but he lost his index finger and had another reconstructed.

The fundraiser will run from 4 to 7 p.m. at Mahoning Valley Volunteer Fire Company, and tickets cost $10 for an adult and $5 for a child 10 years old or younger.

Tickets can be purchased by calling Bryan Pollock at 484-629-4690, Neal Ebbert at 570-225-6859 or the fire station at 570-386-4302.

The dinner includes spaghetti and meatballs, a roll, beverage and a dessert. Takeout meals are available.

Everett’s injury hit home for Ebbert and many of the other fire company members.

“It his us all close because a lot us do some farming,” Ebbert said. “We all know the dangers and things that can happen out there.”

Ebbert said he’s stayed in touch with Everett and his family, and while the farmer’s spirits are up, there is a long road ahead.

“They’re holding it together the best they can,” Ebbert said.

All proceeds go directly to Everett.

“Come out and enjoy a good meal and some fellowship,” Ebbert said.