(From left) Auxiliary Sip and Shop Co-Chair Colleen DeRyckere, Carmel Firefighter Lt. Dave Martin, Retired Assistant Chief and Carmel Fire Buffs President James Martin, Engineer Rick Martin, and Auxiliary Sip and Shop Co-Chair Emma Waters. (Photo provided)
Posted By: The Reporter December 19, 2025
By RENEE BUTTS
Carmel Fire Department Public Education Officer
The Carmel Fire Auxiliary successfully hosted its annual Sip and Shop event in November, raising $2,425 in support of the Carmel Fire Buffs.
Designed to bring the community together, the event celebrated and supported local vendors while also generating vital funds and increasing public awareness for the Carmel Fire Buffs and their mission.
Proceeds from the event directly benefit the Carmel Fire Buffs Museum, a community-driven institution dedicated to preserving the rich history and heritage of the Carmel Fire Department. Located at 210 Veterans Way in Carmel, the museum was founded in 1989 and was housed in the original 1950 firehouse, which has since been rebuilt as the Carmel Fire Department headquarters.
The museum features an impressive collection of vintage fire trucks, historic equipment, and meaningful memorabilia, offering visitors a unique look at the evolution of fire services over the decades. Through events like Sip and Shop, the Carmel Fire Auxiliary continues to strengthen community connections, support local businesses, and ensure that the legacy of Carmel’s fire service is preserved and shared for generations to come.
