Thompson Island brew benefits Rehoboth volunteer fire company

For the Engine 86 Brew day, Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company members joined the brewers at Thompson Island. Shown are (l-r) Mike Simpler, Justin Leahy, Alex Wenhold and John Meng. For every 4-pack sold at Thompson Island, $2 will be donated to the fire company for a new fire truck. SUBMITTED PHOTOS

The Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company needs a new fire truck, and Thompson Island is brewing a beer to contribute.

Members of the fire company recently joined Thompson Island head brewer Justin Leahy to brew up Engine 86, a fresh IPA that will help raise funds for a new fire truck.

The new unit will be an enforcer cab with a 2000 GPM pump and 750 tank on a short wheelbase; it will be the first response unit for all fire calls in Rehoboth and Dewey. It is replacing a 15-year-old truck and will allow the fire company to better serve the community. The cost of the truck is $980,000

Thompson Island head brewer Justin Leahy, left, looks on as Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company President Mike Simpler adds hops to the brew.

Leahy said, “My brother started his career as a first responder with our local volunteer fire department, so it is meaningful to partner with the Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company on Engine 86 IPA and help raise funds for a new fire truck. Engine 86 is a well-balanced American Style IPA where everyone can enjoy the hop notes of citrus peel, grapefruit and pine."

Engine 86 will release Friday, Sept 8, at Thompson Island, and $2 from every 4-pack sold will be donated to the fire company. Guests can also find the beer at the 86 Hook and Ladder Brewfest fire department fundraiser Saturday, Sept. 9.

For more information, go to thompsonislandbrewing.com. To contribute to the fire truck campaign, go to rehobothbeachfire.com.