Long Lake Fire Department Auxiliary

06/01/2026

Scott is the kind of person who is always on the move. Sitting still just isn’t in his nature. Whether there’s a project to tackle, a problem to solve, or someone who needs a hand, he’s ready to jump in and get it done.
A hardworking and dedicated member of our team, Scott leads by example through his actions. His generous spirit and willingness to help others make a difference both within our department and throughout our community. We are grateful to have someone with Scott’s work ethic, kindness, and servant’s heart on our team.

What is your role with the fire department?
Volunteer Firefighter for the past 1.5 years
What inspired you to join?
Small town – needs as many volunteers as it can get.
What’s your favorite part of being a member?
The relationship between the members and willingness of everyone sharing their experiences.
What’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about what we do?
It means looking out for all your fellow firefighters and having their back at all times.
What does teamwork mean to you in this role?
What do you enjoy doing outside the department?
Spending time with family, especially the grandkids
Fun fact about you –
I hate computers but can build anything
Coffee, energy drink, or water on a busy day?
Mountain Dew
Why is serving the Long Lake/Tipler community important to you?
I love this small town and am grateful for the fact we as a small town can work together.
What’s one way the community supports the department that really stands out?
The awesome attendance at the annual 4th of July Parade and Picnic and all the generous donations.

If our department were a movie, what genre would it be?
Fire Country
Favorite local spot to eat or relax?
My backyard
One word to describe our department/auxiliary
Supportive
Any message you’d like to share with the community?
Thank you for all the support, please keep it up!

05/30/2026

Have you ever wondered, “How can I support my local volunteer fire department that selflessly gives their time to protect me, my family, my property, and our community?”

Wonder no more!

The LLFD “Your Neighbors. Your Firefighters.” T-shirts are now available for just $15! We have both youth and adult sizes available.

Show your support for the dedicated volunteers who answer the call day and night to serve our community.

To purchase a shirt, contact Karen Rivard at 414-313-0386.

Thank you for supporting your local volunteer firefighters!

“Wear your support. Support your neighbors. Support your firefighters.” 🚒❤️

05/25/2026

Meet member Jeremy Streu — a quiet guy with a sharp eye and an even sharper perspective. It makes perfect sense that he’s a photographer by trade, because Jeremy notices the things others often miss. He has a kind and gentle heart, but also the ability to quietly get things done without needing recognition. While he may not be the loudest person in the room, when he does speak up, people listen. His calm demeanor, thoughtful observations, and voice of reason have a way of capturing the entire room.

What made you decide to become a firefighter?�
Honestly, it felt natural from the start. I was born and raised here in Long Lake, and the department has always been a huge part of my life and my family. My late father was one of the original founding members of the department and served as fire chief for many years. My mom was also an active dispatcher for a long time, and both of my brothers are involved as well. I grew up in the fire hall around department gatherings, trainings, and community events long before I was old enough to join. Being part of something that meant so much to my family and community made the decision easy.

What’s your favorite part of being on the department?�
The brotherhood and sense of purpose. Being part of something bigger than yourself and knowing your efforts can make a real difference in someone’s life when they need help most is incredibly rewarding.

What’s something people would be surprised to learn about firefighting?�
People often think it’s all lights, sirens, and running into burning buildings, but a lot of the job is much quieter than that. We assist neighboring departments, help with medical calls, support community events, train constantly, and spend a lot of time preparing for situations we hope never happen. But when things do get serious, we do what needs to be done — and we do it as volunteers.

What’s one skill you’ve learned here that you use in everyday life?�
Definitely staying calm under pressure. The department teaches you how to slow things down mentally, stay focused, and work through difficult situations without letting emotions take over.

When you aren’t being a firefighter, what do you do?�
I’m a full-time photographer and filmmaker. I mainly work in the outdoor industry creating cinematic films and content for brands, businesses, and clients throughout the Midwest and Canada.

Go-to comfort food after a long call?�
A good burger or really anything hearty and meaty after a long night.

Favorite way to spend a day off?�
Spending time with my daughter and family, being outdoors, hunting, fishing, traveling, or just having a camera in my hand somewhere in the Northwoods.

Hidden talent people at the station might not know about?�
Probably filmmaking and storytelling. Most people know I’m usually carrying a camera around somewhere.

Most-used phrase or inside joke on your crew?�
“Living the dream.” Usually said at the worst possible timing.

What does this department mean to you?�
It means family, tradition, and community. I’ve watched this department grow for most of my life, and being able to now contribute to something my family helped build means a lot to me personally.

What do you love most about serving this community?�
This is my hometown, so being able to give back to the people and community that helped raise me is important. In small towns especially, volunteer departments play a huge role, and it feels good being part of that support system.

Who inspired you to join?�Without question, my dad.
Watching his dedication to the department and community growing up left a lasting impact on me.

What keeps you coming back, even on tough days?�
The people, the purpose behind it, and the sense of responsibility to the community and department. Even on difficult calls, you know the work matters.

What would you say to someone thinking about volunteering?�
Just take the leap and try it. You don’t need to have all the answers starting out. If you care about your community, are willing to learn, and want to be part of something meaningful, it’s one of the most rewarding things you can do.

Summer calls or winter calls?�
Summer calls. Winter calls bring enough challenges with weather, roads, and equipment before you even get on scene.

Boots on or bunker pants first?�
Boots are already in the bunker pants — one motion and go. Efficiency matters when responding.

05/20/2026

Happy EMS Week to the incredible EMS professionals who answer the call every day with compassion, courage, and dedication.

Thank you for the long hours, quick decisions, calm under pressure, and the care you provide to our communities when people need it most. Your commitment does not go unnoticed, and we are grateful for all you do behind the scenes and on the front lines.

This week, we celebrate and appreciate each of you for the difference you make every single day. 💙🚑

05/18/2026

If you know Joe, you know he doesn’t just wear one hat… he wears about a million around this town—and somehow keeps them all straight. From serving as Chairman to always stepping up wherever he’s needed, Joe is one of those people who quietly keeps things running behind the scenes. And he does it all with a big heart and an even bigger smile that everyone recognizes. He’s the kind of guy who shows up, pitches in, and makes people feel welcome no matter what’s going on. We’re lucky to have him—not just on the department, but in this community.
• What’s your name and role with the department?
Joe Hurst - Captain
• How long have you been serving?
1 year in Long Lake, 1+ years in Tipler, 8 years in Hollandtown, WI
• What made you decide to volunteer as a firefighter?
Desire to help the small community in an impactful way.
• What keeps you coming back, even on the hard days?
I’m always trying to do what I can, where I can where there are needs and I am capable to help.
• Was there a moment you knew this department was “your place”?
When I noticed Jaden working hard to ‘rebuild’ the department after it was decommissioned and when Justin stepped up as chief to re-instate the department
• Who inspired you to work with the fire department
Jaden – he held the pride and motivation that sparked the drive to open the department again

• What’s the most challenging part of being a volunteer?
To be truly involved, it requires a good amount of time and dedication, even after a long day
• What’s something people don’t realize happens before or after a call?
After the call, there is a good deal of work that is involved in finishing paperwork, cleaning the trucks and equipment…the call response is the most critical, but all parts are necessary and important
• What’s your firefighter SUPER POWER?
Able to be readily available for emergency calls being nearby the station and typically in the area.
• What is your favorite gear/tool? Why?
Thermal camera/sensor. I think the technology is very interesting and extremely helpful in fighting a fire
• What makes this department special?
The commitment of the members and reopening the department after being decommissioned

• What’s your favorite part of working with this crew?
I know they will have my back when I need it most, whether is is on scene or simply need a break from all it takes to keep the department advancing and improving
• What would you say to community members who support the department?
Thank YOU for keeping the faith in our department members
• What does it mean when the community shows up for events or fundraisers?
It means an incredible amount of pride and respect for the efforts put forward by your volunteers.
• What would you tell someone thinking about joining?
Please do! There is an opportunity to be a part of a strong team.
• Do you need experience to volunteer here?
No, as there is always a smiling face welcoming and appreciating a helping
• What keeps you answering the call?
Knowing I can help someone
• What message would you like to share with the community?
Thank you all for the support of our team and our department. We do what we do for you, and ready to respond at a moments notice to help in a time of need, but we would rather just wave as you drive by the station to say ‘HI!’

05/15/2026

https://gofund.me/93adb5b5a
Because Brielle Deserves Her Dad! If you are able, please consider helping Jaden with his legal expenses so Brielle can return to our community and grow up surrounded by the people who care about her most.

In small communities like ours, there are people who quietly dedicate their lives to hel… Karen Rivard needs your support for Because Brielle Deserves Her Dad

05/12/2026

Help us support our local firefighter heroes - Long Lake Volunteer Fire Department & Tipler Volunteer Fire Department

05/11/2026

Kathy may be new to the team, but you’d never know it by the way she jumps right in! Whether it’s lending a hand, stepping up when something needs to get done, or simply showing up with a positive attitude and a quick laugh – she’s always ready to pitch in. We’re so glad to have her as part of our crew and can’t wait to see all the great things ahead! Welcome Kathy!

Role in the Auxiliary:
My role is to support our leadership and assist on anything needing help.

How long have you been part of the Auxiliary?
Joined October 2025

What inspired you to join?
I was inspired to join by my friend, Karen Rivard. My husband and I moved here full time from Milwaukee 3 years ago and was looking for a way to get involved in our community.

Favorite Auxiliary event or project?
The fall bake sale was really a lot of fun. I was amazed at the generosity of this community through all the donations. Also, I must add that volunteering at the ice fishing derby was pretty ‘cool’. If you would have told me a couple of years ago that I would be sitting on a chair in the middle of a frozen lake I would have said you were crazy!

What people might not realize the Auxiliary does:
The auxiliary supports the fire department with many things that they need. Our fundraising allows the department to purchase important equipment. We also support the firefighter when they are on calls with beverages and nutrition.

A favorite memory with the department:
Getting to meet some fantastic community members while working at our bakery sale.

Hobbies outside the Auxiliary:
I enjoy cooking, fishing, making maple syrup, scrapbooking, gardening.

Favorite local place or activity:
Fishing in our boat on Long Lake on a beautiful summer day with my husband and 2 Cavaliers.

Why the Auxiliary matters to the community:
When living in a small town you need community support. Volunteering for the Auxiliary is a great way to show your appreciation for the fire fighters and all the work they do.

What you love most about volunteering:
Volunteering gives me a sense of pride from helping. However, I’m humbled by the work of the firefighters.

Advice to someone thinking about joining: If you are interested in making a difference in a small town, this is a great opportunity. You get to work with a great group of fun people while truly making a difference to others.

05/06/2026

⏰ The countdown is ON! 🇺🇸🦸

Our America’s Super Heroes Picnic & Parade is getting closer, and we need YOUR ideas, energy, and helping hands to make this year bigger and better than ever!

Reminder that our picnic planning meeting is TONIGHT at the Long Lake Firehouse. Whether you’ve helped for years or want to get involved for the first time, we’d love to see you there.

📍 Long Lake Firehouse🗓 Tonight🕕 6:00 PM

Come help us plan another unforgettable community celebration filled with hometown pride, superheroes, families, and fun!

05/04/2026

We’re lucky to have Calvin on loan to us during his visits Up North – when he’s here, our whole team benefits. He brings a wealth of knowledge, experience and a steady presence that makes everyone around him better. Calvin has earned the well-deserved respect across the service, including being named the 2026 Wisconsin Firefighter of the Year 2nd Runner-Up and it shows! We’re grateful to have him as part of our crew. Thanks for everything you bring, Calvin!

Calvin’s journey started with the Sheboygan Falls Fire Department in 2011 and was quickly appointed to Captain. In 2018 he was awarded the Assisting Chief in charge of training at the SFFD. His passion for mentorship extends to the Lakeshore Technical College where he serves at an instructor where he bridges the gap between theory and the high-stakes reality of the fireground, transforming recruits into capable first responders. Calvin is a Hazardous Materials Team Commander, a leader of the Dive Tender support unit and a State-Certified Fire Inspector.

Beyond the sirens, Calvin is a visionary for community health. Recognizing a lack of ‘saves’ during cardiac calls, he launched a Community CPR Class in 2017; to date nearly 900 citizens of the Sheboygan Falls surrounding community has been trained through this initiative, a simple idea that has fundamentally shifted the safety profile of that region.

Calvin represents the very best of the Wisconsin fire service, and we’re proud to say he’s ours too!