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Second-generation Chisago firefighter Kevin Todd has served on the squad 27 years, and he has worked fryers for the smelt event every year. He started in the “second kitchen,” he explained, and was promoted to “first kitchen” following the retirement of Dale Colberg, Sr.

The Fire Department and personnel, like Todd, are celebrating 100 years of service in 2012, and for the anniversary the department did not charge ticket prices for the smelt dinner but collected a free will offering fom the public (based on suggested donations).

Firefighter Zach Reed, current president of the Chisago City Fire Relief Association, said the event typically draws 400-450 guests but this year the department estimates more than 470 were fed. “We saw a lot of familiar faces, and some new people,” Reed said. “We exceeded our goals (with revenues). We weren’t setting out to do anything but give back for 100 years. Everyone was very generous. The Fire Department is very happy to have such a generous community.”

The department will continue its centennial celebrations with a classic car show and street dance in the Community Center parking lot Saturday, Aug. 4.

Reed said the department that day will rededicate a fire bell which was used when the station was in a building on the southeast corner of what is now Moberg Park, across from the post office.

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