Joe ~ This idea has been posted a number of times here on the Recipe Link. I think Page first posted it as a GREAT party idea. It is one of my favorites.

BAKED POTATO PILE UP

Bake enough russett potatoes for everyone in your crowd.. plus a few extra. Serve these baked potatoes on a good-looking platter, piled high AND

serve many condiments with which your guests can embelish their own taters... including

chopped onions
shredded cheeses (many varieties)
include some vegetarian cheese
chopped ham
chopped cooked chicken
bacon bits
chopped veggie burger (for vegetarians)
sour cream
butter
chili
any other chopped veggies you want
use your imagination... no limits

Each guest can create their own masterpiece. Also, this can be a complete meal for any vegetarians who might attend your event.

For your firefighter flare, I would be tempted to use helmets as serving dishes.

ALSO, if you decide to serve a mixed green salad, these same condiments can be used to on the salads.

And, congratulations for the "end of probation"! I appreciate and applaud firefighters!

Kelly~WA