La Conner Pub lets firefighters moonlight for fun and profit

The La Conner Pub & Eatery was so busy Wednesday that people joked the fire department might be called to red tag the place for exceeding its occupancy limit.

Turns out, members of La Conner Hook & Ladder and the local firefighters' association were already on scene – en masse.

They took over the downtown tavern and diner that night for a major fundraiser, collecting half the food and beverage receipts and all of the gratuities.

Nor did their five-hour serving shifts represent a hostile takeover. Quite the opposite.

The unique benefit event was La Conner Pub & Eatery owner Julie Lennartz's idea. And a great idea at that, Fire Chief Aaron Reinstra said afterward.

"It was a lot of fun," he said. "It was great seeing everybody. It was like going to a homecoming football game."

The crowd was festive and clearly enjoyed a midweek community gathering.

"It was insane" in a good way, Reinstra said with a chuckle.

His wife, Jaime Reinstra, said final dollar totals for the fundraiser were still being tabulated.

"I don't know the exact numbers, but I do know it was very successful and we are so thankful for the support and generosity of our community," she said. "So many people have said what a fun event it was and they're looking forward to the next one."

The Reinstras gave credit to Lennartz.

"Julie came up to me a while ago and said, 'I've got an idea for a fundraiser,'" chief Reinstra said. "'Why don't you guys run the tavern for a night?'"

Jaime Reinstra said Lennartz and her staff prepared the firefighters and association members beforehand.

"I think the firefighters were all excited for the fundraiser and a little nervous, too, since for some it was their first time serving," Jaime Reinstra said. "We had lots of support from the tavern staff. They were amazing! They were the heroes behind the scenes. Julie and her crew are so generous and kind to team up with the fire association to make this event happen."

The La Conner Firefighters Association, made up of community members, works with Hook & Ladder to plan and host fundraising events, seasonal dances and special occasions in the greater La Conner area.

The June 5 "takeover" of the Pub saw association members and firefighters working shoulder-to-shoulder.

In addition to ticket receipts and tips, the association received cash donations from patrons who tossed money into firefighters' boots placed close to the building's two entrances.

One donor questioned if the boot's contents were safe when left untended.

Councilmember Ivan Carlson, also a La Conner firefighter, assured her they were.

"This is La Conner," he said, the pride in his voice ­unmistakable.