Free community chili supper set at Bainbridge Saturday to unveil new fire truck

BAINBRIDGE -- A free chili supper is set for 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14 to unveil the new Bainbridge Volunteer Fire Department pumper truck to the community.

The chili supper will be staged in the Bainbridge Community Building, located across U.S. 36 from the fire station. The truck will be parked inside the Community Building for the public to view it during the chili supper.

Santa Claus is also expected to make a special appearance at the event.

The free community chili supper is a way for the fire department and the Walnut Creek Fire District to thank members of the community for their assistance in securing the new fire truck, fire officials said.

Especially invited to attend Saturday's event are those who have donated any funding during the year.

The menu will consist of chili, hamburgers and hotdogs.

"It is 100 percent free," Bainbridge Fire Chief Dustin Osborn noted. "It's not a fundraiser, it's a thank you to the community. But if someone wants to donate, we're not going to turn it down."

Walnut Creek Fire District President Jim Hilburn agreed, noting that the event is not only a way to show off the new equipment but to honor the community for its efforts.

Hilburn said the community was able to purchase the truck due to a long-term relationship and commitment between the Bainbridge Fire Department and the fire district.