Twenty-five years after the Sept. 11 attacks, local firefighters and first responders gathered for a meal served in their honor — and a reminder that the community has not forgotten the people who answer the call when others need help most.
Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia hosted a community luncheon recognizing dozens of firefighters and first responders from South Philadelphia and beyond. The event also included a $15,310 donation to the Philadelphia Fire Department Foundation, which supports Philadelphia firehouses with lifesaving equipment, professional training and other critical resources.
City Councilmember Mark Squilla, Fire Department Deputy Commissioner Joshua Mcguoirk and Executive Chief Dan McCarty joined Philadelphia Fire Department Foundation Vice President Brian Devaney, foundation board members and Live! executives and team members for the gathering.
“Philadelphia’s firefighters and first responders put themselves on the line every day to protect our city, and we are proud to recognize their service,” said Jason Birney, general manager of Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia. “As we mark 25 years since Sept. 11, this luncheon gives us an opportunity to personally express our gratitude while supporting resources for those who continue to answer the call.”
The donation was presented to the Philadelphia Fire Department Foundation, which works to provide resources that help firefighters, paramedics and emergency medical technicians do their jobs safely and effectively.
For South Philly, the luncheon was also a celebration of the neighborhood’s deep-rooted food and community traditions.
The gathering marked the grand opening of Old Original Nick’s Roast Beef at 10th Street Market. Attendees were among the first customers to sample the South Philadelphia institution’s signature USDA Prime roast beef sandwiches as the new location began its limited culinary engagement.
The roast beef spot joins other familiar Philadelphia names at the food hall, including Geno’s Steaks, Lorenzo and Sons Pizza and Termini Bros. Bakery.
The luncheon was part of Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia’s Live! in the Community program, which focuses on partnerships with local organizations and community groups.
According to the casino, Live! Philadelphia has provided more than $15 million in donations and grants to local organizations to date.
“Support from community partners like Live! Philadelphia strengthens our ability to serve the firefighters, paramedics and EMTs who protect this city,” said Amy Hennessey, president of the Philadelphia Fire Department Foundation. “This contribution is especially meaningful as we mark 25 years since Sept. 11 and recognize the enduring dedication of Philadelphia’s first responders. We’re so grateful to Live! Philadelphia for making this donation possible.” ••
