WHAT'S NEW
New Truck
On Sunday, December 6, 2009, the Fire Department held a "housing ceremony" welcoming a new Engine 10. The truck was manufactured by Custom Fire Apparatus of Osceola, WI for a price of $430,000.00. The truck has a 425 hp engine, 1,500 GPM pump, 750 gallon water tank, 25 gallon foam tank, 15,000 watt hydraulic generator, 9,000 watt 20 foot light tower and a changeable message sign board.
Assistant Fire Chief Retires
On December 31, 2009 Assistant Chief Jim Kilburg retired after 27.5 years of service. Jim served 8.5 years as a firefighter, 6.5 years as a Captain, and in May of 1997 was appointed Assistant Fire Chief. He also served on the Relief Association as a trustee and President.
New Assistant Fire Chief
Dave Dreelan was selected as the new Assistant Fire Chief. Dave joined the Department in August of 1990, became a Captain in 1996, and the Training Officer in December of 1991.
New Training Officer
Roy Kingsley was selected as the Training Officer. Roy joined the Department in August of 1990 and became a Captain in 1994. He was appointed Assistant Training Officer in 1999.
New Assistant Training Coordinator
Dale Stein was appointed the Assistant Training Coordinator on February 6, 2010. Dale jointed the Department in November of 2005.
Permanent Appointments
On September 1, 2009, four new firefighters were appointed to permanent status after a one year probationary period. The four firefighters are Joe Hennessy, Mark Lopez, Jay Miller, and Robb Soleim.
Firefighter Tom Shields Retires
On September 1, 2009, Firefighter Tom Shields retired from the Fire Department. Tom was very active in the Fire Department and had a great commitment to his training requirements. Tom served as a trustee on the Relief Association as well as various committees within the department, including the Relief Board. Tom also received the "George Lowe Firefighter of the Year" Award in 2001.
30 Years - Jamie Lerbs
20 Years - Tom Shields
15 Years - Ron Katzenamier
10 Years - Scott Goldenstein and Jay Taylor
2009 Top 10 In Fire Call Response
Jay Taylor 76% Bret Blaeser 73%
Rich Griep 71% John Mendez 68%
Mike Coonan 62% Ron Katzenmaier 62%
Steve Abrahamson 60% Scott Goldenstein 60%
Gordy Skjerven 57% Keith Stein 57%
2009 "George Lowe Firefighter of the Year"
The 2009 "George Lowe Firefighter of the Year" was Bret Blaeser. Past "George Lowe Firefighters of the Year"