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Protect the line: Supporting Applegate firefighters

Written by:

Liza Crosse

2026 Fire and Vine Benefit Dinner

On September 12, 2026, at 5 pm, join us at Red Lily Vineyards for the 2026 Fire & Vine Benefit Dinner. This annual community event brings together great food, local wine, and lively auctions, both silent and live—including the crowd favorite, the cake auction—all in support of a critical mission: protecting the firefighters who protect the Applegate Valley.

The evening will be hosted by local favorite Jason Straube, serving as both master of ceremonies and auctioneer.

All funds raised this year will support the “Protect the Line” campaign, focused on purchasing new wildland-fire Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Applegate Fire District firefighters.

This popular event has sold out in past years, and tickets must be purchased in advance.

Why this campaign matters

Applegate Fire District continues to invest in staffing, equipment, and fire prevention programs while maintaining a high level of emergency response service. However, some essential needs remain unmet.

One of the most pressing needs is for updated wildland PPE—specialized gear designed to protect firefighters operating in wildland fire environments. With increasing wildfire activity across our region, this equipment is more important than ever.

Much of the District’s current wildland PPE has exceeded its intended service life and no longer meets modern safety standards. At this time, there is no capacity within the District’s operating budget to fully replace this equipment.

To address this need, the goal of this campaign is to purchase 40 new sets of wildland PPE, ensuring that firefighters across all seven stations are properly equipped for safe and effective response.

Each set costs approximately $1,200 and includes a wildland jacket and pants, along with a line pack that carries water, tools, and a required fire shelter.

We are pleased to report that the District has secured a $6,000 grant toward this effort. The remaining campaign goal is $42,000.

How you can help

Community support plays a vital role in maintaining the safety and readiness of our firefighters. Contributions of any amount are appreciated and will go directly toward the purchase of this essential equipment.

Supporters may also choose to participate through event sponsorships:

Chief Level Sponsor—$1,000: Includes four tickets to the Fire & Vine Dinner & Auction, two Applegate Fire District challenge coins, and recognition in event materials (the Applegater and the Fireside Newsletter) and on the Friends website.

Captain Level Sponsor—$500: Includes two event tickets, one challenge coin, and recognition in event materials (the Applegater and the Fireside Newsletter) and on the Friends website.

Individual tickets are available for $50 per person and include dinner, a glass of wine, and access to the auction.

Limited sponsorships are available. After August 1, 2026, any tickets associated with unsold sponsorships will be released and made available to individual ticket buyers.

Because this event sells out each year, early participation is encouraged.

Get tickets and learn more

Tickets and sponsorships are available now. Scan the QR code or visit bit.ly/FireVine2026 to access the event page and complete your purchase.

Join us for an evening of community, connection, and purpose—and help us protect the line.

Special thanks to our leading sponsors!

Fire Chief

Hidden Valley Market

David and Lauri Dobbs

Captain

Babette and Steve Rapp

Tim and Liza Crosse

Mike and Liv Schneider