The Bristol Fire Department hosted its annual fireman’s ball at the Jack Graham Community Centre on Saturday evening. In keeping with the brigade’s tradition of keeping formalities brief, the evening had almost no pause for presentation or speech and was more comparable to a community celebration and dance, offering attendees a chance to step out in their finery of choice and have a good time.

From the moment brigade member Ken Bernard kicked things off with a brief welcome message highlighting activities planned for the evening, local band Uni-Son kept the air alive with their take on a broad array of tunes ranging from Boney M. and Elvis Presley, to Gloria Gaynor and Celine Dion. Band members Lianne Groulx and Chantal Proulx provided the vocals and they were accompanied by Denis St-Jean on bass, Raymond Lemaire on keyboard and Peter Beaudoin on the drums. Together, they brought the assembled out of their chairs and onto the dance floor for what seemed like two sets of endless joy.

Save for a singular pause in festivities during which Chief Kevin Kluke and Bristol Mayor Brent Orr offered understated homage for the many years of service given by firefighters Robert Walls, Bob Cowley and Denis Findlay, the evening was all about fellowship.

Throughout the evening the canteen was well tended and attended, the silent auction saw a steady stream of hopeful and, for some, successful bids, the door prizes were well-received, and with provisions from the firefighters themselves, the late lunch – served around 11 p.m. – was a success on every level.

This was a team effort across the board, and these volunteers showed gratitude for the role they play even as those in attendance applauded them for their service and dedication.