Over 1,500 Strathmore residents visited the local fire hall to enjoy a plate of Canada Day flapjacks.
The event was hosted by the Strathmore Fire Department between 7 a.m. and 11 a.m. on Tuesday (July 1) in partnership with Epcor. According to fire chief Dave Sturgeon, the event served between 1,600 and 2,000 residents
"This year, the funds go into our reserve, which we use to purchase specialized equipment and things that may not be on the radar for council," said Sturgeon. "In years past, they bought auto extrication equipment for removing patients out of cars."
The pancake breakfast has been an annual staple for the fire department for over 25 years, with each resident getting a plate of eggs, sausage, and pancakes. There was also juice and coffee for residents to drink, along with plenty of maple syrup and ketchup.
"We've got enough food for 2,500 plates, and any food we don't use, we donate to the overnight shelter. So, it's kind of a win-win, whether or not we use it," added Sturgeon.
The event also featured live music performed by Melissa Matheson, a singer-songwriter based out of Strathmore.
Sturgeon also spoke about the importance of the fire hall hosting community events.
"We're a taxpayer-funded business, and so we want to give back to our residents and show them our appreciation for how they support us over the years."
You can see more photos from the Strathmore Fire Department's annual pancake breakfast below: