By Karen Kaplan

Contribute Writer

(Aug. 13, 2026) For the second year in a row, Parke residents enthusiastically rolled up their sleeves — and fired up their ovens — to show their appreciation for the nearly 50 volunteers and staff of the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department.

On August 4, residents gathered for a special Firehouse Potluck Dinner, preparing and serving a delicious homemade feast. Organizers Mary Shelsby, Beverly Fortune, and Kathy Burleson once again did an amazing job organizing the event, scheduling staggered food drop-offs at the Assateague Room, where the firefighters were holding their monthly meeting. A team of Parke volunteers worked behind the scenes to coordinate, transport and serve the feast, making sure everything came together smoothly.

Residents contributed an abundance of home-cooked dishes, mouth-watering baked goods and plenty of community spirit. And for those who couldn’t bring a dish, there was another way to pitch in — there was still an opportunity to participate — many made generous donations to help make the evening special.

The generosity didn’t stop at the dinner table. Mary Shelsby presented the fire department with a $1,520 donation on behalf of the Parke community. OPFD President Joe Enste expressed his appreciation, saying the department was grateful for the recognition, the generous donation and the beautiful dinner prepared by Parke residents.

It was an evening filled with food, fellowship and gratitude—and a wonderful example of neighbors coming together to support those who serve and protect our community. The enthusiastic response from residents has made the Firehouse Potluck Dinner a second-year tradition with plenty of heart—and hopefully one that will continue for years to come.