The Chanhassen Fire Department recognized several outstanding members during its annual banquet held Saturday at the Chanhassen Legion. Among the evening's honorees was Daisy Anderson, who received the Meritorious Award for Community Service for her leadership in helping Chanhassen and Carver County pursue Heart Safe Community designation. The effort involves extensive documentation, education and collaboration, and department leaders praised Anderson's dedication to improving community health and emergency preparedness. 

Chad Olson was also recognized with an individual Meritorious Award for Community Service for an extraordinary volunteer effort earlier this year. In January, Olson traveled more than 2,100 miles using his own vehicle and personal time to deliver firefighting equipment and hospital supplies to southern California, where they were transferred and ultimately transported to firefighters and medical personnel in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. 

The department also recognized Ana Fatturi and Daisy Anderson with the Meritorious Award for Community Service for their ongoing commitment to community risk reduction, public education and prevention outreach.  

The evening culminated with Dawn Smith being named Firefighter of the Year. Department leaders cited her dedication, leadership, community involvement, support of fellow firefighters and professionalism, noting that she serves as a positive ambassador for both the Chanhassen Fire Department and the community it serves.