October 5-11, 2025 is National Newspaper Week, a celebration of the news media industry and its vital role in our society. It is also National Fire Prevention week. Both commemorations have special meaning to Larry Roeder, publisher of the Town and Country newspaper in Pennsburg. Roeder has been with the weekly newspaper in Upper Perkiomen Valley for 30 years, while also serving with three volunteer fire companies for a total of 48 years.

            He has written a book about his experiences as a volunteer firefighter called "Firefighting Standing – Stories from a Volunteer", available Friday, Oct. 10.

            Roeder began his news media career in 1991 at the Philadelphia Inquirer, starting as a senior systems analyst. By 1999, he was promoted to computer operations manager, responsible for round-the-clock operations of the data center and its supporting staff. Roeder is also a noted local historian of the Upper Perkiomen Valley and nearby regions.

            He started his own publishing company in 2005, LJR Publishing, to manage his manuscripts, archives and lectures. Two months later, in January 2006, he purchased the  Hearthstone Town and Country newspaper and rebranded it to its current name, Town and Country. He has held the title of publisher since.

            It was his time as a volunteer firefighter, however, that had a profound impact on his life.  In his new book, he shares his experiences of decades in service and reflects on life among this tight-knit community. It is a collection of stories based on experiences from local coverage areas to the aftermath of the September 11 attacks in New York.

            The book offers a unique perspective into the lives of volunteer firefighters, everyday citizens who risk life and limb in service to the community, for no pay. There are stories of heroism, bravery and courage. There is also a look into the psychology of these volunteers. They are people who want to serve their communities without joining organizations that cater to public and social pressures. Some see themselves as outcasts – real or imagined – who join for friendship and camaraderie. As stated in the book, it is the nature of most volunteers to help those in need, be a friend.  The volunteer firefighter experience is about helping each other as much as helping the community.

            Roeder sees a connection between his role as publisher and his time at the firehouse. "The news media, like the volunteer firefighter, is facing a crisis," he said.  "We cannot let folks lose their faith in trustworthy news coverage or the volunteers who serve their communities.  As the numbers of both recede, we must all work harder to maintain a high quality to those we serve.  Both in print and practice." 

            "Firefighting Standing: Stories from a Volunteer" is out Friday, Oct. 10, and is available on Amazon.

This story was published in the October 9 edition of Headlines and Deadlines