Jesse Drewery was recognized for being a member of Hunterdale Volunteer Fire Department for 50 years during the department’s annual banquet with Franklin Fire and Rescue on Jan. 19.

Jesse, who turned 85 on Thursday, is an honorary member.

“There was a time he did respond to fires,” said HVFD Chief David Blythe. “He was real active from what I understand, back in the day, and instrumental in refurbishing one of the trucks.”

Jesse was an active firefighter for 18 years, during which time he served as a captain and engineer. A medical situation forced him to sit out.

“I continued to support them with fundraisers, and in 1990, was asked to serve on the board of directors,” Jesse said.

He served until 2010.

As for his commitment to the fire department, “once you get in it, it’s hard to get out of your blood,” Jesse said. “It becomes part of a family. You count on each other not only in the fire department, but for support in other ways.”

Jesse retired from Hercules in 1989. He and his wife of 58 years, Evelyn, are the parents of Gene Drewery, a major in the Southampton County Sheriff’s Office, and Beth Vincent of Richmond, who recently retired as secretary to the board for the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries. Grandchildren William “Will” and Courtney Drewery complete the family.

In related matters, Charlie Griffin was named Hunterdale Volunteer Firefighter of the Year during the banquet.

Others recognized from Hunterdale were Mark Pierce, Emergency Medical Service Provider of the Year and Special Achievement; Clay Blythe, Junior Firefighter of the Year; and Jessica Haydu, Special Achievement.

Recognized from Franklin Fire and Rescue were Kate Mason, the James M. Wagenback Award; Charles Smith, the Garland Duck Award; John Friis, the Jerry Beaton Award; and Colby Rountree, Junior Firefighter of the Year.

• Emmanuel Episcopal Church held its annual Boston Butt Roast on Feb. 2, Super Bowl Weekend.

Church members weathered the cold, wind and smoke to make 144 Boston butts averaging 8 pounds each purchased from Grayson and Emma’s Garden Spot in Courtland.

The butts were put on the cookers at 5 a.m. and pulled off at 3 p.m. and pre-sold for $25 each.

Proceeds will benefit the needy in the community.

GWEN ALBERS is managing editor of The Tidewater News. Her email address is gwen.albers@tidewaternews.com.