The Alternative Press

SUMMIT, NJ- Saturday evening, Twin Maples in Summit was covered in red and white to symbolize the fire truck  that the Summit Historical Society and Fortnightly Club Hold were honoring at the first ever Red Engine Social.

The efforts to preserve and permanently house the City’s 1927 Chemical Engine No. 1 fire truck have become a community-wide effort and proceeds from the event will benefit the project. Fundraising towards preservation of the 1927 vehicle began last year, and the Historical Society formed collaboration with the city’s fire department.

The event was co-chaired by Lori Dahl and Lynn Reed. Even with Hilltopper alumni weekend taking place, many residents and elected officials came out to the elegant fundraiser where delicious food and drinks were served all night.

“Our fundraising effort to preserve a special piece of Summit’s history for current and future generations is a privilege,” Dahl said.  “The support from individuals, civic and volunteer groups that have come together in this joined community effort is astounding.  To think that children generations from now will be able to be educated about fire safety and look at “The Chemical” with the same gleam as in 1927, that is awesome!”

Over the years the engine has been featured in parades and at other local commemorative events, and current plans call for the construction of a permanent structure on property at the Carter House, the Historical Society’s home and museum located at 90 Butler Parkway.

Reed said it was a fun event to plan and she and Dahl worked well together. The night was definitely a success and she said she was glad so many people attended.

“The turnout was exactly what we had hoped for,” Reed said.

She doled out praise to Sandra Mcternan, who set up all of the decorations including the disco balls in the fire place. Mcternan, who is a member of the Fortnightly Board, said it was quite easy to arrange everything and she was happy that everyone was enjoying their surroundings.

Kelly Daab and Valerie Smeth, who are friends with the co-chairs, said it was a beautiful evening and they were impressed with the decorations and all of the work Dahl and Reed did.  Smeth, who serves on the Summit Historical Society Board, said it’s an important fundraiser to attend because not only will it help the community, but children in the hospital as well.

“They really put their heart and soul into it,” Smeth said. “I give them a lot of credit.”

There was catered “Four Alarm” hors d’oeuvres, “Hot Zone” food stations, wine, a signature “Light My Fire” cocktail created just for the event and beer with a specialty keg tapping. They will also be offering ‘Helping Hero’ sponsorships for $20. People can make a donation, and a stuffed animal – Fire Bear or Dalmatian – will be donated in that person’s honor to the Summit Fire Department to be taken on calls to calm children or donated by the Summit Fire Department to a local children’s Burn Unit.  Additionally, there is going to be a 50/50 raffle and a silent auction.