HEBRON FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT SELECTED AS 2003 GOLD STAR CHILI FIRE HOUSE OF THE YEAR

CINCINNATI, Ohio - (October 24, 2003) - Fire fighters and Chief Dale Harshbarger from the Hebron Fire District were recognized today as the 2003 Gold Star Chili Fire House of the Year. In addition to the award, the Hebron Fire Protection District received $1000 from Gold Star Chili, Inc. to further support the department’s efforts in promoting fire safety and prevention.

The Gold Star Chili Fire House of the Year award is presented to an organization of fire fighters that demonstrates a team effort and dedicates a significant amount of time to promote fire safety and prevention in their community. The award selection committee considered the nominees' fire prevention/education program (including goals, specific activities and goals reached), the qualities of teamwork and leadership exhibited, public services other than fire and EMS provided to the community, and accomplishments outside of the areas of fire prevention and education.

The Hebron Fire Protection District was selected in large part due to its demonstrated success in educating as many community groups as possible. Hebron is one of the fastest growing areas in the state of Kentucky. To meet the rapidly changing demographics of its community, the Hebron Fire Protection District has been proactive in tailoring its public education programs to the needs of each demographic group. The department is involved with in its area’s schools, day cares, churches, neighborhood organizations, senior centers, and its corporations and industry.

The Hebron Fire District provides ongoing public education courses, tours and events including CPR and first aid, fire extinguisher training, home safety inspections, free smoke detectors and carbon monoxide monitors. The department has also developed a Fire Explorers program with a dedicated group of students from Conner High School.

John Sullivan, CEO of Gold Star Chili, Inc. presented the 2003 Fire House of the Year award to Hebron’s Chief Dale Harshbarger at a special luncheon held at the Cincinnati Museum Center.

"Gold Star Chili is honored to present the Fire House of the Year award to the Hebron Fire District. This group has left no stone unturned in pursuing its goal to build relationships with all of the groups in their community. Their teamwork, leadership and dedication make Hebron a safer place for everyone," said John Sullivan, Chief Executive Officer of Gold Star Chili.

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Established in 1965, Gold Star Chili has more than 100 restaurants located throughout Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana. For more information about Gold Star Chili, please log onto www.goldstarchili.com.