Liverpool Fire department garden party expands

Organizer Chad Whynot explains. “It was going downhill so we decided to add to it and attract some crowds by bringing in things everybody likes.”

The garden party usually doesn’t start until 6 p.m.

New events include a 2-10 p.m. Beer Tent with live entertainment, a 3-6 p.m. baked bean and ham supper cooked by firefighters, and a Merchandise Bingo and Merchandise Booth. Half hour draws will be held for those playing bingo to offer chances to “win a prize for just showing up.”

The fire department is advertising a surprise. Whynot, even after some intense questioning, wouldn’t divulge the secret. “The special surprise will remain a surprise,” he says with a laugh.

Other activities include, of course, the 6-9 p.m. garden party complete with crown and anchor and ham wheels, an inflatable ride, darts, hockey shoot, duck pond and so on. Of course lots of food, face painting and a bake table will be on-site.

Whynot doesn’t hold back when discussing the importance of the event. “It’s our biggest fundraiser and we’re broke. It’s tough times, and we have a bunch of new projects starting up so that’s why we’re hoping this fundraiser goes over really big.”

The projects, at various points of the planning stages, include a water rescue boat and new fire truck. As usual, new gear is always needed.

Whynot says the volunteers spend numerous hours training and responding to emergencies each year in addition to fundraising to offer the communities covered a good fire service, but, “over time, everything costs more.”