FEMSA News Winter 2008-2009 Newsletter by Windmill Hill Consulting, LLC

The Resource for Public Safety Businesses Official Publication of the Fire and Emergency Manufacturers and Services Association

Winter 20082009

Fire Engineering & FDIC are the proud sponsors of the FEMSA 2008-2009 Winter Newsletter

CHANGE IS HERE …

2009

- A NEW YEAR

Message from President Giff SwaYNe - Page 2 FEMSA 2009 BOARD OF DIRECTORS - Page 3 FEMSA WELCOMES ITS NEWEST MEMBERS - Page 5 WORDS AND NUMBERS TO PLAN BY - Page 5 HEY THERE ...MR. BUSINESSMAN ...MS. BUSINESSPERSON - Page 6 GAC CORNER - Pages 8, 10-11 CGC CORNER - Page 13 NAM VIEW POINT - Page 13 A SOLUTION TO THE CURRENT CREDIT CRUNCH FOR MANUFACTURES - Page 14 MASTERING ON-LINE MARKETING - Page 15 INTERSCHUTZ 2010 - Page 17 FEMSA MEMBER NEWS - Pages 17-23 THE 2009 YEARLY PLANNER - Page 23

Special Insert: Annual Meeting “Scrapbook”

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Strange times indeed. In the past several weeks we have seen a historic election, a historic economic crisis, a historic financial bailout effort, and most certainly a historic impact not only on every one of us but also on our industry. At a time when some view the incoming administration with a sense of euphoria and hope, others view it with a sense of foreboding and fear. On the economic front, I think it is safe to say that we all share a deep concern. Watching the stock market’s volatility and the mind boggling amounts of money being thrown into bailouts, you can’t help but wonder if anybody on Wall Street or Capitol Hill knows what they are doing. You also have to wonder what this climate means to our customers and their outlook towards 2009. At the Annual Meeting in Tucson, we had the opportunity to ask the panel of the Buyers’ Roundtable how the economic situation was impacting their current and future purchasing plans. The answers were pretty unanimous. The pressure on municipal budgets certainly will have an impact on our customers’ buying habits in the coming year. Some panelists felt they would have to make their current apparatus and equipment last “a little longer” than they had planned. The majority of the panel had been asked to prepare budgets that reflected between 5% and 15% reductions from current levels. One other theme that came through loud and clear was the value that they place on relationships with the vendors. They think of the goods and services we provide not only in terms of the tangible aspects of our products, but also in terms of the people behind them. The Annual Meeting was a busy one. Another highlight was our GSA panel. We were fortunate to have Josh Sawislak, Senior Advisor to the Administrator, Shaloy Castle-Higgins, Deputy Director Greater Southwest Acquisitions Center and Tricia Reid, National Program Manager for State and Local Disaster Recovery and Purchasing, join us for several hours of Q&A. Josh, Shaloy and Tricia are the ultimate authorities on GSA Schedule 84 and the implementation of H.R. 3179 which opens Schedule 84 to state and local governments. The discussion covered a wide variety of topics. A redacted transcript of the session is posted on the FEMSA website in the members’ only area. If H.R. 3179 and the GSA are of concern to you, be sure to read the transcript; there is some great information available. As always, I would like to thank those of you who took time away from your businesses and families to attend the Annual Meeting in Tucson. I would also like to thank the sponsors that helped make the meeting possible. Judging from the feedback we have received, it was well worth your while to attend. For those of you reading this who did not attend, you missed a great opportunity to interact with an impressive panel of purchasing decision makers from all over the US and Canada, from fire departments large and small, as well as key representatives from GSA, and perhaps most importantly, your peers in the industry. You should make it a priority to attend the 2009 meeting in Arlington, Virginia October 7 – 9th, you won’t be disappointed. The recent election has changed the landscape in Washington, and what that might mean for our industry remains to be seen. There are reasons to be optimistic when you consider that our Vice President-elect has been the Co-Chair of the Congressional Fire Service Caucus. Vice President-elect Biden knows the issues that the fire service faces and has been a strong supporter. Senator McCain will remain in the Senate and continue to support the cause of emergency responders. What will remain unknown is how President-elect Obama will view our issues and what tradeoffs he may have to make in the face of the current economic crisis. Also, we will have one of the largest incoming classes of freshman legislators in recent memory. With the change of power in Washington, we need to be alert to how committees change, and where we, as an association, may have a fresh opportunity based on our membership’s political map. It is important for each of us to reach out to the new members of Congress from our areas. They will be setting up their local staff and offices, and we need to build relationships with these folks early on in the process. Remember to encourage them to join the Congressional Fire Caucus! Till next time,

2 || femsa.org || Winter 2008-2009

Giff Swayne

THE 2009 FEMSA BOARD OF DIRECTORS Officers/Executive Committee

BOARD MEMBERS

(Year of Re-Election)

William “Giff” Swayne (2009) President (2010/P-3) Holmatro, Inc. (410) 768-9662 x103 gswayne@holmatro-usa.com

Dan Reese (2009) Vice President (2010/VP-3) Akron Brass Company (309) 444-4440 dreese@akronbrass.com

Melinda Freeman Secretary-Treasurer

Class 1, Inc.

(2009) (2010/ST-3)

(352) 387-0416 mfreeman@idexcorp.com

Don Welch (2011) Executive Committee Member Globe Manufacturing Co. (603) 435-8323, x3309 donw@globefiresuits.com

Roger Weinmeister (2010) Executive Committee Member Super Vacuum Mfg. Co., Inc. (970) 667-5146 rogerw@supervac.com

Paul Andrews (2010) FirefighterNation.com/ Go Forward Media (240) 595-2352 paul@goforwardmedia.com

Bill Lawson (2011) PBI Performance Products, Inc. (704) 554-3865 William.lawson@pbiproducts.com

Doug Bonney (2011) Kochek Co., Inc. (860) 933-6367 dougbonney@kochek.com

Mike Natchipolsky (2009) Firehouse.com (301) 486-3224 mike.natchipolsky@cygnusb2b.com

Dan Farster (2010) Red Head Brass, LLC (330) 567-2903 dan@redheadbrass.com

Janet Wilmoth (2009) Fire Chief Publications (312) 840-8410 janet@firechief.com

John Granby (2010) Lion Apparel, Inc. (937) 415-2843 jgranby@lionapparel.com

Karen Burnham Executive Assistant to the Board FEMSA (781) 334-2771 info@femsa.org James J. Juneau, Esquire Legal Counsel Juneau, Boll & Ward (972) 866-8333 jjuneau@juneauboll.com Bob Grimaldi Travel Agent Rome Travel Bureau, Inc. (315) 337-0560 bobg@rometravel.com

Winter 2008-2009 || femsa.org || 3

FEMSA WELCOMES ITS NEWEST MEMBERS

Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs Donald Warden, Executive Director 289 Albert Street, Suite 702 Ottawa, Ontario K1P 5G8 Canada Tel: (613) 270-9138 Email: dwarden@cafc.ca Web Site: www.cafc.ca

Stedfast USA Inc. Jack Kay, Owner 11016 Granite Street Charlotte, NC 28273 Tel: (704) 588-1962 Email: jkay@stedfast.com Web Site: www.stedfast.com

Fire Chiefs service organization

Advanced textiles for the first responder market

Fire Fighting in Canada Laura King, Editor 105 Donly Drive Simcoe, Ontario N3Y 4N5 Canada Tel: (800) 265-2827 Email: lking@annexweb.com Web Site: www.firefightingincanada.com

United Fire Equipment Co. Daniel Matlick, President 335 N. 4th Avenue Tucson, AZ 85705 Tel: (520) 622-3639 Email: danielm@ufec.com Web Site: www.unitedfire.net

Media publication

Distributor – breathing apparatus, turnout gear, fire truck service

IN MEMORIAM

WORDS AND NUMBERS TO PLAN BY As we close out 2008 we’d like to share some statistics and comments from our survey compiled from our Annual Meeting attendees this past October in Tucson, AZ. Did you know that not a single person who responded to the annual meeting survey said they would not recommend the FEMSA annual meeting to others! That means the members who invested the time and money to participate in the annual meeting actually felt strongly enough about the value they received to recommend it to others. Members also felt strongly about the speakers and other programs. 96.65% of the respondents

felt the buyers’ round table was a very satisfying program. 91.30% of the respondents felt the business speaker brought value to the members. 95.26% of the respondents saw strong value in the new FEMSA Fire Drill where various topical discussions and information sharing occurred. 81.89% of the respondents felt strongly about the networking opportunities the annual meeting provided. Finally, the members overwhelmingly (94.64%) rated their experience as good or very good. Don’t like numbers? Then check out these comments from members who attended. “Networking opportunities are key. Speakers who are extremely relevant is also very important. Good job with both this year!

Thanks to our advertisers...

Fire Apparatus & Emergency Equipment Fire Engineering / FDIC Fire Chief Firehouse FireRescue

By: Dan Reese, FEMSA VP

Thank you, a good use of my time.” “Great conference – Deming + roundtable hits! MRSA just ok. Another great business speaker.” “This was the best meeting I’ve attended to date. I like when both days are filled with content without a lot of down-time.” “You folks hit a home run with this meeting. Nice work.” So what does all that mean? It means we are asking you to plan today to attend our 2009 Annual Meeting October 7 - 9 in Washington DC! The FEMSA Board of Directors looks forward to seeing you there.

Official Publication of The Fire and Emergency Manufacturers and Services Association, Inc. P.O. Box 147, Lynnfield, MA 01940-0147 Phone - 781-334-2771 Email - info@femsa.org Website - www.femsa.org Copy and Advertising Deadlines: Contact the FEMSA office. Provided to members as a benefit of membership. Articles from members are invited. FEMSA reserves the right to edit for factual content, brevity and clarity.

Winter 2008-2009 || femsa.org || 5

Hey There…Mr. Businessman…Ms. Businessperson By Roger Weinmeister, Super Vacuum Mfg. and came up with a list of questions for the Top Three. Pointed questions, like: Are you required to meet the NFPA standards? (“No…but many items do and contractors can show and promote it.”); and What does ‘most favored pricing’ mean? (“We negotiate the pricing that ends up being the mostfavored price.”); So you thought you would pick up a few “No one buys anything from GSA,” said extra days in the office getting things Josh Sawislak, Senior Advisor to the GSA done early this October. Skip that ole Administrator. “Our job is to connect the FEMSA Annual Meeting and save the buyer and the seller, whether Federal or 3 days, plane ticket, room, and meetstate or local agencies. These are voluntary ing charges. Yes, Tucson in October is programs. The buyers need to want to parpretty nice as compared to say Indy in ticipate in this program and there’s nothing March, or say Dallas in August. But, your company just doesn’t run right to say the government agencies have to buy from this program.” without you there. Not that any of that is your fault, can’t get good help these days, or they were good, but after work- Then the floor was opened to questions. Many insightful questions were asked by ing with you all these years they still Paul Curtis, L.N. Curtis. Should any of us don’t get it. So stay home, crank out care what the guy who runs the largest fire the work, sleep in your own bed … effiequipment dealership in the country thinks ciency is the key to running a business. about GSA? Damn right we should, but (in the name of efficiency) you were remindLet’s see, you told them to track that ing your employees that fedex.com shows shipment and see who signed for it, exactly when the package was delivered. caught up on the latest issue of “FireSomething” Magazine, took the call The Economy – the most feared unknown from the angry battalion chief to whom your company shipped the wrong stuff... to contend with since around 1929 – was another topic at the Annual Meeting duragain. Heck, if you would have been ing a Buyers’ Roundtable. You may know in Tucson, the person who entered the order wrong might have had to take that the names – Chief and Officers Compton, Frazeur, Robertson, Boyes, Piechera, call and figure out that the right stuff would go out that day, via next day ship- Bjerke, Small – they write the articles you were reading in “Fire-Something” Magazine, ping on your bill. Yea, you really have they head up NFPA committees - they purto do things yourself if you want them chase millions of dollars of the stuff you sell. done right. They discussed the effects of the economy, what they like to see from sales people, how Meanwhile, some of the best and to get City Hall to buy the good stuff – not brightest minds of the fire service were low bid and other topics of interest. gathered in Tucson. Best and brightest is a relative term, no disagreement Chief Jeff Piechura, Northwest Fire District, there. They had assembled a number of programs of interest to most in the in- AZ, reminded attendees, “Fire districts have a different problem. Foreclosures mean dustry. In the interest of efficiency, you people don’t pay taxes.” are welcome to read my interpretation of the meeting highlights and draw your Captain Homer Robertson, Fort Worth, TX, own conclusions. said, “I want to pay you a fair price, but I need a good product that you stand behind GSA – three of the most feared letters every day. We need to have honesty so that since STD – was represented at the when we say we have a problem, and you meeting. Not someone from the local say ‘you’re the only one to have a problem’, office who could get back to you with I’m going to hang up on you because I know the answer in a couple of weeks. No, the Top Three GSA people charged with it’s not true.” implementation of the Rule and these Those of us at the meeting know what those three people gave honest, straightforchiefs plan to do in the current economy. ward answers right there on the spot. We have a better idea of what they have They didn’t stall or anticipate what their to do to get Purchasing to buy what fire boss wanted them to say. departments need, not whatever low bid is thrown in by your competitors. And we Prior to the GSA presentation, FEMSA know that all that money we have been members broke into caucus groups spending buying doughnuts is now going to 6 || femsa.org || Winter 2008-2009

be spent on demo equipment. The Energy -- the thing we all lack the most since turning 40 -- is provided at all FEMSA Annual meetings via a guest business speaker. You know how it works, the list of companies that they have presented to, their interesting take on life, how sales worked at XYZ Company (why is it XYZ Company is never in the Fire Service?). Anyway, the advantage of FEMSA’s Annual Meeting speaker is that the person is recommended by someone in the fire industry, not someone that can speak to every town throughout North America. This year Scott Deming, E.S.P., treated the audience to a focus on branding— “It’s an emotional connection a person has with another person or organization based on an experience,” Deming said. Other Deming gems included, “Every belief we have is based on an experience,” and “No trust, no relationship, no chance.”---which took many of us back to the Buyers’ Roundtable and Captain Robertson’s comment about trust and that, “All the products in my shop have a face who I can go back to.” The Contacts – networking. This year a new event called the “Fire Drill” was introduced. Based on a concept proposed last year, the idea was to break into small groups and go learn about the subject of most interest to you. Exporting, Human Resources, NAM, Disaster Recovery, Trade Show Marketing, new CPR, Political insight and Economic impact on fire departments. At the last session, 24 people were standing around Mark Light of the IAFC learning about his view of the impact on economic changes from his discussions with fire chiefs across the country. While in the name of efficiency, you were talking with that pissed off Battalion Chief learning the economics of once again paying next day air charges. Your emails were answered a little bit more efficiently for those three days in early October than those of the (150+) people who were attending the conference first hand. But, if you toss this newsletter before anyone else in your company reads it, they will never know how much information your competition might have received in Tucson. So there you have it, someone else’s view of major events that will impact your business in 2009.

FireRescue Magazine is proud to announce a major addition to our eMedia team: Dave Iannone Managing Director of eMedia Strategy Paul Andrews Director of eMedia Sales Chris Hebert Director of eMedia Content The entire FireRescue media team is dedicated to delivering the best â&#x20AC;&#x153;Read it Today, Use it Tomorrowâ&#x20AC;? content to the fire service. And we are committed to creating dynamic new marketing opportunities with extraordinary ROI for FEMSA members.

ContACt: Jeff Berend, VP/Publisher (619) 699-6566 or j.berend@elsevier.com Sheri Collins, Advertising Director/Western Account Manager (760) 787-9314 or sheric@nevpacinc.com Joe Skey, Eastern Sales Representative (856) 673-4000 or joe.rhmedia@verizon.net Dave Iannone, Managing Director of eMedia Strategy (410) 872-9303, ext. 1 or dave@goforwardmedia.com Paul Andrews, Director of eMedia Sales (410) 872-9303, ext. 5 or paul@goforwardmedia.com Chris Hebert, Director of eMedia Content (410) 872-9303, ext. 4 or chris@goforwardmedia.com

111th CONGRESS · 2009-2011

GAC Freshman Representatives

CORNER

111th CONGRESS · By 2009-2011 David Gatton and Dustin Joyce, Consultants The Nation Will Inaugurate Its 44th President and Usher in the 111th Congress So many changes are occurring that it’s tough to keep track. The nation elects a new president and both the House and Senate turn decidedly Democratic. The Bush Administration continues its bailout of the financial sector as the nation faces its toughest economic crisis since the Great Depression. The Big Three automakers need life support and come hat-in-hand to Washington. Proposals to stimulate the economy abound, some as high as $700 billion (although it is important to note that the President-elect has not made public his figure). A terrorist attack in Mumbai reminds us that the world remains a dangerous and volatile place. In the midst of all these events around the world, it would be easy for us to lose focus on the FAMA/FEMSA Governmental Affairs Committee’s mission—helping to improve the capabilities of the nation’s fire and emergency services which play a critical role in the everyday life of every American. The 20 million fire and emergency calls that are made every year serve as a key safety net for Americans and our way of life. And right now, we need every ounce of security and sense of wellbeing that we can muster. So while we have had a successful year on two major fronts— increased federal funding for both the Assistance to Firefighters Grants and SAFER and reauthorization of the U.S. Fire Administration—our job is not close to being done. Next year we face the reauthorization of the Fire Grants program; an uncertain budget climate as federal deficits reach staggering levels; and many new congressional members who need to be educated on the importance of the fire and emergency services to our communities. For starters, let’s make sure that incoming members of the 111th Congress know that FAMA and FEMSA members are an important part of their local economies and play an even bigger role in the national agenda to keep American’s safe by adequately equipping our first responders. Below we have listed the new Senate and House members (some seats are still 8 || femsa.org || Winter 2008-2009

DISTRICT

NAME

● AL 2 Bobby -Bright 111th Congress 2009-2011 ● Freshman Representatives ● ● AL 5 Parker Griffith Freshmen ● ● AZ 1 Representatives Ann Kirkpatrick D

● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

DISTRICT

NAME

NV 3 Dina Titus NJ 3 John Adler NJ 7 Leonard Lance R DISTRICT NAME D NAME ● CA 52 ● R DISTRICT Duncan D. Hunter NM 1 Martin Heinrich ● AL 2 Bobby Bright NV 3 Dina Titus ● NM 2 Harry Teague CO 2 Jared Polis ● AL 5 Parker Griffith NJ 3 John Adler ● NM 3 Ben R. Luján CO 4 Betsy Markey ● NJ 7 AZ 1 Ann Kirkpatrick Leonard Lance ● ● CO 6 Mike Coffman NY 13 Michael McMahon ● CA 52 ● Duncan D. Hunter NM 1 Martin Heinrich ● CT 4 Jim Himes NY 21 Paul Tonko ● CO 2 Jared Polis NM 2 Harry Teague ● FL 15 ● NY 25 Dan Maffei Bill Posey ● CO 4 Betsy Markey NM 3 Ben R. Luján ● FL 16 ● NY 26 Tom Rooney Chris Lee ● CO 6 ● NY 13 Michael McMahon Mike Coffman ● NY 29 Eric Massa FL 24 Suzanne Kosmas ● CT 4 Jim Himes NY 21 Paul Tonko ● NC 8 Larry Kissell FL 8 Alan Grayson ● FL 15 ● NY 25 Dan Maffei Bill Posey ● OH 1 Steve Driehaus ID 1 Walt Minnick ● FL 16 ● NY 26 Tom Rooney Chris Lee ● OH 16 John Boccieri IL 11 Debbie Halvorson ● FL 24 Suzanne Kosmas NY 29 Eric Massa ● IL 18 ● OH 7 Aaron Schock Steve Austria ● FL 8 Alan Grayson NC 8 Larry Kissell ● KS 2 ● Lynn Jenkins OR 5 Kurt Schrader ● ID 1 Walt Minnick OH 1 Steve Driehaus ● KY 2 ● Brett Guthrie PA 3 Kathy Dahlkemper ● IL 11 Debbie Halvorson OH 16 John Boccieri ● LA 6 ● PA 5 Bill Cassidy Glenn Thompson ● IL 18 ● OH 7 Aaron Schock Steve Austria ● TN 1 ME 1 Chellie Pingree Phil Roe ● KS 2 ● Lynn Jenkins OR 5 Kurt Schrader ● TX 22 Pete Olson MD 1 Frank Kratovil ● KY 2 ● PA 3 Kathy Dahlkemper Brett Guthrie ● UT 3 Jason Chaffetz MI 7 Mark Schauer ● LA 6 ● PA 5 Bill Cassidy Glenn Thompson ● VA 11 Gerry Connolly MI 9 Gary Peters ● TN 1 ME 1 Chellie Pingree Phil Roe ● MN 3 ● Erik Paulsen VA 2 Glenn Nye ● TX 22 MD 1 Frank Kratovil Pete Olson ● ● MS 3 Gregg Harper VA 5 Tom Perriello ● UT 3 MI 7 Mark Schauer Jason Chaffetz ● MO 9 ● WY at large Cynthia Lummis Blaine Luetkemeyer ● MI 9 Gary Peters VA 11 Gerry Connolly • ● Three races to call with absentee and provisional ballot counts and VirginiaNye 5th. ● pending: California VA 2 4th, Ohio 15th Glenn MN 3 remain too close Erik Paulsen • The open seat race in Louisiana’s 4th congressional district was delayed to December 6 by Hurricane Gustave. It will take place between Democrat Paul ● Carmouche ● MS 3 and RepublicanGregg Harper VA 5 Tom Perriello John Fleming. • ● The race in9Louisiana's 2ndBlaine congressional district was also delayed to December 6. It●is between Rep. William JeffersonLummis (D) and Ahn MO Luetkemeyer WY incumbent at large Cynthia “Joseph” Cao (R). Jefferson is heavily favored, but is currently awaiting trial on corruption charges.

• •

Three races remain too close to call with absentee and provisional ballot counts pending: California 4th, Ohio 15th and Virginia 5th. The open seat race in Louisiana’s 4th congressional district was delayed to December 6 by Hurricane Gustave. It will take place between Democrat Paul Carmouche and Republican John Fleming. The race in Louisiana's 2nd congressional district was also delayed to December 6. It is between incumbent Rep. William Jefferson (D) and Ahn “Joseph” Cao (R). Jefferson is heavily favored, but is currently awaiting trial on corruption charges.

Freshman Senators •

Freshmen Senators D

STATE

NAME

Freshman Senators ● ●

STATE

NAME

● Alaska Mark Begich New Mexico Tom Udall ● Colorado Mark Udall North Carolina Kay Hagan ● Idaho ● Oregon Jeff Merkley Jim Risch D R STATE NAME D NAME ● Nebraska ● R STATE Virginia Mark Warner Mike Johanns ● ● Alaska Mark Begich New Mexico Tom Udall ● New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen ● ● Colorado Mark Udall North Carolina Kay Hagan • ● Seats in Minnesota and Georgia are still being contested, it is possible that there more freshmen senators Jeff once the process is complete. ● may be twoOregon Idaho Jim Risch Merkley • President-elect Barack Obama and Vice President-elect Joe Biden’s seats will be filled by appointment by the Governors of Illinois and Delaware. ● ● Nebraska Virginia Mark Warner Mike Johanns contested through recounts). Continued October 7-11 —another opportunity ● New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen

national commitment to the U.S. Fire to meet with members of the 111th • Seats inAFG Minnesotaand and Georgia are still beingwill contested, it is possible that there may be two more freshmen senators once the process is complete. Administration, SAFER depend Congress. • President-elect Barack Obama and Vice President-elect Joe Biden’s seats will be filled by appointment by the Governors of Illinois and Delaware. on their support. Working with the broader Hold on to your hats. Change is coalition of first responders, it is our job to coming. Let’s make sure it is change that make sure they have the important facts and benefits the first responder community. figures before them as they make decisions on budget priorities for next year. The FAMA/ On a personal note: FEMSA GAC will continue to work with you Over the past two years, it has been our privilege to work with Bob Kreps and Steve throughout 2009 to achieve this end. Lawrence, co-chairs of the GAC along with With that in mind and knowing your John Granby. Bob and Steve will be stepping busy schedules, we want to encourage down as co-chairs next year. Through their you to attend CFSI’s 21st Annual Fire and leadership, the GAC launched many new including Home Day, 10 Key Emergency Services Dinner in Washington initiatives, Facts About the Fire Service and Industry, April 2, 2009, as an opportunity to meet with FireGrantData.com, and our strategic efforts these new members. And we ask that you to educate Congress on the importance of first place on your 2009 calendar the combined responders. Bob and Steve, thank you for your FAMA/FEMSA annual meetings which this incredible and long-lasting contributions. year will be held in Washington, D.C. on

GAC CORNER

CHANGING OF THE GAC GUARD By Karen Burnham

As we say “farewell” to 2008, likewise we bid our best wishes and an enormous amount of thanks to two key drivers of the FAMA/FEMSA Governmental Affairs Committee (GAC).

Robert “Bob” Kreps

In the spring/summer of 2008, Bob Kreps, FAMA’s GAC Co-Chair, announced his December 31st retirement from Hale/Class 1. Bob had held the co-chair position for three years, taking over from John Sztykiel in 2005. (John was a key figure who, with Steve Lawrence (then FEMSA Board Member) convinced the FAMA and FEMSA Boards that combining the efforts of both associations for a stronger voice in Washington was the right thing to do for our industry.) Bob attacked his responsibilities to the GAC head-on and brought a dedicated attitude and true professionalism to the committee, carrying on the business structure enacted by his predecessor. In honor of his tireless efforts, Bob was presented the inaugural Lynn Powell Special Award at the fall/annual meeting banquet in Tucson. The commendation accompanying the award says it all: On behalf of the Governmental Affairs Committee (GAC) of the Fire Apparatus Manufacturers’ Association (FAMA) and the Fire and Emergency Manufacturers and Services Association (FEMSA), it is with great honor and pride that we present to you...

The Lynn Powell Special Award

Lynn Powell truly was a special person. During her over 25-year career in the fire service industry, Lynn prided herself to stay one step ahead, anticipating the needs of others. Known for her organizational skills and “take charge” attitude, she motivated her co-workers with an unselfish “can do” spirit. She had a zest for life and passionate resolve for her children, grandchildren, relatives and friends – a loving and exceptional woman. The GAC would not be where it is today without Lynn’s contributions. This commendation is a testament to Lynn’s approach to life, and will be the standard for all GAC fellows. Bob, as a committee co-chair, you have accelerated the efforts of the GAC over recent years through your wisdom and leadership. Your keen business sense and eye for excellence have been critical in building relationships with key industry stakeholder organizations and providing extraordinary insight to FAMA and FEMSA member companies. Members of the FAMA/FEMSA GAC are privileged to have worked with you, and applaud you as the inaugural recipient of this Award in honor of Lynn Powell. 10 || femsa.org || Winter 2008-2009

Steve Lawrence

On November 6, 2008, Steve Lawrence announced to the FEMSA Board of Directors his resignation from the Board including his co-chairmanship of the GAC, effective immediately. Steve had accepted a wonderful career opportunity, but it was outside our industry. The silence in the room was so deafening that it hurt. This was an emotional and bitter-sweet moment for Steve and the Board. Steve was elected to the FEMSA Board in the fall of 2000. At the end of each three-year term, he earned the respect of the membership to be re-elected for yet another three years (in 2003 and in 2006) with his current term to end in 2009. Throughout these years, Steve became the “gentle giant” among his colleagues … always going to the nth degree to be sure his assigned tasks were completed and completed well. Steve found his niche in FEMSA when he connected with John Sztykiel back in the fall of 2000 in Nashville, Tennessee, in an effort to merge the governmental affairs committee of FEMSA with that of FAMA, ultimately forming the joint GAC. From that point on, Steve was unstoppable. His knack for political correctness and ability to sneak through doors none of us would dare, is a talent few have. The first “Hill Day” that Steve helped orchestrate in short order was the foundation of great relationships and partnerships that the GAC has since developed. Within a year’s time, the FAMA/ FEMSA GAC became an incredibly strong and powerful group of intelligent and dedicated individuals helping to represent the interest of FEMSA and FAMA members in Washington, DC. The strong foundation that both Bob Kreps and Steve Lawrence have shaped for the GAC will continue to cure over time through existing and new leadership. Although they will both be missed, they have left the GAC in good hands. John Granby, on behalf of FEMSA, will continue his role as a GAC co-chair, and he is joined by FAMA’s new co-chair, Mike Power.

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hief Ed d Deputy C eynolds anease Training R ly el K r. is D fectious D Nied on In

Mike Power Mike Power currently serves as Director, Government and Homeland Security Business Development in Oshkosh Corporation’s Washington, DC office. He assists in managing federal business development and government affairs activities for the company and its subsidiary, Pierce Manufacturing Inc. Mike is an attorney, previously serving as Chief Counsel for the Republican Staff of the House Committee on Homeland Security from 2006 to 2007. He has served in various legislative and legal positions in Washington, DC since 1996, and resides with his wife and two children in Great Falls, Virginia. Members interested in getting involved in the Governmental Affairs Committee may contact: John Granby - (937) 415-2843 jgranby@lionapparel.com Mike Power - (703) 525-8416 mpower@oshkoshcorp.com

The Edward H. McCormack, Jr. Spirit of Excellence Award was initiated in 2006 by the FAMA/FEMSA GAC to celebrate Mr. McCormack’s 40 years of dedication to the American Fire Service through training and education. Of McCormack’s many accomplishments, one of his proudest was his charge to pass legislation that led to the creation of the Massachusetts Fire Training Academy in the mid-1960s. Through that effort, McCormack learned quickly about politics, the importance of working behind the scenes with appropriate stakeholders and soon became one of the most respected fire service advocates in the country. In 1974, McCormack was one of the writers of legislation that created the United States Fire Administration and the National Fire Academy. “Big Ed” McCormack, who died in April 2006, was a man ahead of his time who had extraordinary vision…in spirit, action and deed. For his leadership through service to others, compassion for his fellow man, and his perseverance, Ed McCormack was truly a beacon in the heart of the American Fire Service.

Austin and Caldwell Honored: 2008 GAC Spirit of Excellence Awards

Lynnfield, MA, November 21, 2008 - The Governmental Affairs Committee of the Fire

Apparatus Manufacturers’ Association and the Fire and Emergency Manufacturers and Services Association recently presented the Edward H. McCormack, Jr. Spirit of Excellence Award to Mr. Steve Austin, Director of Government Relations for the International Association of Arson Investigators and to Mr. Alan Caldwell, Manager, Government Relations for the International Association of Fire Chiefs. FAMA/FEMSA GAC presented the Edward H. McCormack, Jr. Spirit of Excellence Award to honor Austin and Caldwell for their many years of commitment to the American Fire Service. In presenting each award to Austin and Caldwell, GAC Co-Chair Steve Lawrence described “Big Ed” McCormack’s dedication to the American Fire Service. Lawrence said, “With McCormack’s spirit in mind, the FAMA/FEMSA GAC applauds you as a fellow ‘beacon in our hearts’ for your achievements, and honors you with the Edward H. McCormack, Jr. Spirit of Excellence Award.” Steve Austin is a fire service consultant specializing in political and organizational issues that impact the delivery of emergency services. He was with State Farm Insurance Company’s fire, arson and life safety issues for over 30 years and is a life-member of the Aetna, Hose Hook and Ladder Company, Newark, DE, past president of the New Castle County DE Volunteer Firemen’s Association and was president of the Delaware Volunteer Firemen’s Association. Austin was appointed by the United States Fire Administrator to the National Juvenile Fire setter/Arson Partnership. He participated in the Leadership Team of the National Highway Incident Management Coalition, chaired the NFPA Technical Committee on Fire Investigator Professional Qualifications and is on the NFPA Correlating Committee on Fire Service Professional Qualifications, twice chaired the Congressional Fire Services Institute National Advisory Committee (NAC) and named “CFSI Fire Service person of the Year” in 1996. In 1998 Austin was Chair of Federal Emergency Management Agency’s “Blue Ribbon Panel” to review the operation of the United States Fire Administration and the National Fire Academy. He has served on advisory committees and panels for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, the National Fire Academy, the United States Fire Administration and the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Steve received the IAFC President’s Award for his commitment to the fire service. Steve was named as a Senior Fellow at the George Washington University Homeland Security Policy Institute. Alan Caldwell – After serving in the military, Caldwell’s career included working for two Fortune 500 companies in management and government relations. He was Director of the Washington Office for the Alliance for Fire & Emergency Management prior to joining the International Association of Fire Chiefs in 1996 as the Director of Government Relations. Caldwell is a former volunteer chief with Fairfax County Fire & Rescue Department and former chief and board of trustees for the Dunn Loring Volunteer Fire Department, Fairfax County, VA. Caldwell’s commitment to furthering the professionalism and raising political awareness of the fire and emergency services won him the Dennis Duffy Citizenship Award from the Fairfax Bar Association, the Fire Chiefs Award of Fairfax County and the prestigious Mason Lankford Award from the Congressional Fire Service Institute and Motorola. Winter 2008-2009 || femsa.org || 11

NAM VIEW POINT By: John Engler, NAM President/CEO NAM: The Tide Is Turning

On November 13, 2008, the Manufacturing Institute of the National Association of Manufacturers released the institute’s cost study update … “The Tide Is Turning”. The study can be found at www.nam.org/coststudy. The study shows how a combination of favorable U.S. policy changes advocated by the NAM, actions by manufacturers to innovate and manage structural costs, and rising costs among our major international competitors, have contributed to lowering the aggregate cost burden faced by U.S. manufacturers over the past two years. Still, an excessive cost burden of 17.6 percent is a serious impediment to our ability to compete, and, in particular, U.S. companies pay the second highest corporate tax rate in the world. One of the first goals to get our economy growing again must be to bring our corporate tax rates under control. We hope you find this report useful in our shared efforts on behalf of manufacturers nationwide. Emily Stover DeRoceo President The Manufacturing Institute

IN MEMORIAM

David Asselin Vice President & Executive Director NAM Allied Associations

WELCOME TO OUR WORLD…

FEMSA is saddened to report the passing of: Heather Westphal (October 12) – IAFC Membership Marketing Manager Dean Morris (October 17) – Cutters Edge General Manager Dorothea McNamara (October) – mother-in-law of Dave Gatton (GAC Consultant)

By Bruce Whitehouse, Past-Chair

The fall of 2008 saw a number of developments on the Canadian side of our GAC. Special thanks go to Stephan Thibault and Brian Nash for stepping up to take on the roles of chair and vice-chair respectively. This transition helps to ensure an effective succession plan as well as introduce new ideas and energies into the leadership. A key development during the fall was increased communications with the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs. To promote partnership and to avoid confusion with the existing CAFC committees and initiatives, we agreed to simplify our name. As shown above, it is now the FAMA/FEMSA Canadian Governmental Committee, or CGC in the short form. As reported in our fall newsletter, Fire Fighting in Canada stepped up to the plate and organized a nationwide survey of fire apparatus, equipment and training. The results are now being collected and prepared for a summary. More news on this in the Spring.

Nathan Purdy – a baby boy adopted from Vietnam by Keith and Miriam Purdy (Gimaex)

Narcille Ferrara (November 26) – mother of Chris Ferrara, Ferrara Fire Apparatus Denis Bramblette (Sept. 18) - formerly of Responder Magazine May they rest in peace.

CGC CORNER

Ana Grace Sztykiel – a baby girl born November 2, 2007, and adopted from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia by John and Joni Sztykiel (Spartan Motors) in April 2008.

I noted earlier that the committee has been strengthened by Stephan and Brian taking on the roles of chair and vice-chair. But it is important to recognize that no committee chair can function effectively without the strong support of committee members. I am grateful for all those who participate in our conference calls and who continue to provide input and energy through their regular contributions. I look forward to continuing to work as part of the CGC to being able to work with and help the Canadian fire service raise awareness of funding requirements at all levels of our governments.

Winter 2008-2009 || femsa.org || 13

A SOLUTION TO THE CURRENT CREDIT CRUNCH FOR MANUFACTURERS By: Mark Lauber VP Marketing, Paradigm Partners

The recent economic upheaval has caused short term credit lines to be reduced or even pulled altogether. This has caused financial stress for many companies. There is a Solution that Puts Cash in Your Bank Account with Interest What if you could get cash back with interest from the IRS within 90 to 120 days, would that help? What if that extra cash back ranged from the tens of thousands to the millions? Would that extra cash help with your cash flow or give you the opportunity to make an investment in equipment or expansion? Or could you use the extra cash for other purposes to help your company? How is this possible?

• Injection, Blow, Compression molding • Vacuum forming • Precision CNC Machining • Solvent and Adhesive Bonding • Thermoforming Process • Quality Assurance Here are a few examples of companies and their Net R&D Tax Credit: 1) Tool & Die Shop Average 4 year payroll of $3.5 Million Net Credit Benefit for 2004 thru 2007 tax years: $200,000 2) Foam Products Manufacturer Average 4 Year Payroll of $19.5 Million Net Credit Benefit for 2004 thru 2007 tax years: $1,200,000 3) Software Company Average 4 Year Payroll of $6.5 Million Net Credit Benefit for 2004 thru 2007 tax years: $500,000

Most manufacturing firms are missing out on 5, 6 or 7 figure manufacturing credits. The existing R&D Tax Credit is overlooked because most manufacturers do not understand that their every day activities already qualify for the credits. The IRS recently relaxed the rules as to what constitutes R&D so many companies are unaware that they now qualify for this great tax incentive.

4) Custom Plastics Products Manufacturer Average 4 Year Payroll of $11.5 Million Net Credit Benefit for 2004 thru 2007 tax years: $700,000

And in most cases, neither does your CPA understand because it requires very specialized knowledge and that’s why they have never approached you. It takes a team of specialized tax engineers and IP attorneys to understand which activities qualify and to create the documentation to substantiate those qualifying activities.

Why do you get cash back?

The following are examples of qualifying activities for the R&D Tax Credit: • Plastic part manufacturing • Rapid prototype modeling • Design – AutoCAD • Aluminum prototype tooling • Silicone tooling 14 || femsa.org || Winter 2008-2009

As you can see, even for smaller sized entities, the tax benefits can be significant if you consider the amount of revenue that it would take to generate the same net benefit.

The IRS recently changed the rules allowing companies to go back 3 years and take the credits they missed. 90 to 120 days after submitting amended returns, you will get cash back with interest. And of course you can take credits for current and future years if you continue to perform similar activities. Should my company take a look at this? By the very nature of your business, all manufacturing firms have qualifying activities. The question is can you actually use them. To help, if you can answer yes to all of these items, then you definitely need to have an R&D Tax Consulting firm provide you with a

free estimate of your tax credits. 1. Were you profitable in 2005, 2006, and/or 2007? 2. Is the total cumulative payroll for 2005, 2006 and 2007 in excess of $7.5 million dollars? 3. Is the company structure a C Corp? If so, you are OK. If an S Corp or partnership, do you have 5 or less shareholders? If so, you are OK. If you answered yes to those 3 items, then you have an excellent possibility of having a high 5 figure credit and into the 6 or 7 figure credits for manufacturers with higher wage totals. The R&D Tax Credit is a wage based credit so the higher your total wages, the higher your credits. Think about what your company can do with the extra cash in about 90 days. Conclusion In summary, the current credit crunch is hurting many companies. Fortunately the existing R&D Tax Credit can provide much needed cash quickly for all qualifying manufacturers. The refund can be used to help your cash flow or make an investment in your business to buy needed equipment or expand your capacity. Seek out an R&D Tax Consulting firm to confirm that you qualify and to give you an estimate of your R&D Tax Credits. The sooner you do this, the sooner you’ll have additional funds to invest in your company. Mark Lauber is the Vice President of Marketing for Paradigm Partners, a national tax consulting firm specializing in the manufacturing tax credit, also known as the Research and Development (R&D) Tax Credit or Research Tax Credit. The firm is located at 14825 St. Mary’s Lane, Suite 102, Houston, TX 77079; mlauber@paradigmLP.com; www.ParadigmLP.com.

MASTERING ON-LINE MARKETING By Alex Ford, CEO, FireRescue1.com

Developing an Online Marketing Strategy (reprinted with permission of

Fire Dealer Monthly) Embarking on an online marketing campaign without first having a strategy is like charging into a situation without an attack plan. You can rush in and throw a lot of resources around in the hopes something will stick, but without a clear, well thought out strategy, your chances for real, meaningful success aren’t very good. An online marketing strategy is a roadmap for positioning your company so that those looking for your products are able to find you at the moment they’re ready to make purchasing decisions. This requires stepping back and recognizing that the Internet has caused consumers to change many of their core behaviors and habits. Acknowledging these changes as you identify your marketing objectives is critical and this article will arm you with the tools necessary to do so. At its most basic, developing an online marketing strategy is really about pairing your identified objectives with the most effective online advertising options, while adopting a consistent method for evaluating its effectiveness. Let’s focus on the four key questions that will help you evaluate your marketing objectives and structure your company’s approach to online advertising and marketing.

Question 1: What are my overall online marketing objectives? Before you begin spending money on online advertising, you need to first clearly identify what you want to accomplish and have a general understanding of how those objectives fit in the online world. It is important that your online strategy complements and reinforces your corporate marketing objectives and offline initiatives. Underneath that umbrella sits a wide range of different objectives that

factor into your company’s overall success. These include: Brand Building: One of the most common mistakes we see from companies is disregarding the value of brand building. It’s true – Internet advertising carries with it the benefit of being highly trackable. But there is a temptation to measure all ad results by the number of clicks or leads they drive. Yet if you don’t have an attractive or identifiable brand, it is tough to get people to click on your ads. Thought Leadership: When your customers view you as an authority on a topic that relates to your products, it creates an aura of trust and reliability that strongly registers when it comes time to make a purchase decision. The ability of the Internet to distribute information to a targeted, highly relevant audience makes it an ideal venue for thought leadership endeavors, be it a contributed article or columnist sponsorship. Interacting with Your Customers: Customer loyalty is primarily forged through direct interaction with your customers before, during and after the purchase. But consistent, ongoing communication with them plays a big role in reinforcing that loyalty. The Internet offers very unique opportunities to get feedback from your customers, information that can be valuable for everything from product development to formulating a marketing strategy. It also offers ways to interact on an ongoing basis with your customer base, whether that be through company newsletters, blogs or promotional campaigns. Driving Traffic, Leads or Sales: Getting people to your site and getting them to take action is a critical component to many online marketing campaigns. On your site, you control 100% of the content and messaging and you should have distinct and measurable objectives for customers when they get there. These can range from downloading a white paper to finding a sales rep or distributor to purchasing a product. Launching Products: Most of us know the importance of creating a level of excitement in the market when you release a new product. A coordinated online advertising campaign can be tremendously effective in

quickly spreading the word about your product as well as communicating its benefits. Differentiating Your Products: In a crowded marketplace, you need to demonstrate that your products offer benefits that your competitors’ products don’t. The fire market is especially difficult, with many categories of products that appear very similar on their face. The Internet is ideal for communicating detailed information about your products and why they stand out from the crowd. Gathering Market/Customer Research: Collecting customer data is something that many companies neglect. There is tremendous value in having statistical knowledge about your target customer base; anyone willing to take the time to submit information about themselves is interested in what you have to offer, be it now or later down the road. Educating the Market: Often, the single biggest hurdle you’ll face in selling your product is getting your customers to appreciate why they need it and what problem it solves. This is especially significant in the fire market, where many agencies and departments are rooted in tradition, have small budgets and may be reluctant to embrace new technologies. Being able to communicate what the problem is and how your product solves it is vital. Question 2: Which online marketing tools and tactics best match my marketing objectives? After identifying your objectives, it’s time to survey the online marketing toolkit and determine which best accomplish them. Below I have included a subset of some of the most popular tools and which objectives they address: Banners: Banners are easy – they can be quickly created, easily deployed, and bring straightforward statistics. Think of them as the billboards on the site of the internet highway. Banners are a useful tool for creating visibility for your company continued on next page Winter 2008-2009 || femsa.org || 15

Developing an Online Marketing Strategy and products, but communicate very little specific information about your product and generally offer little incentive to click on them. And the fact that banners often aren’t configured to appear in contentspecific locations means many of the clicks they do receive are not especially targeted. Objectives Addressed: Brand Building, Product Launches, Product Differentiation Cost per Click (CPC): A “CPC” campaign simply involves placing advertisements on the results pages of search engines (Google, Yahoo and MSN). In essence, you open an account with each, develop a list of relevant keywords (eg. “Turnout Gear” or “Breathing Apparatus”) and create ads for those keywords. While CPC advertising offers little brandbuilding benefit, it is great at driving measurable clicks to your site. It begins driving traffic to your site immediately, it’s easy to make changes on the fly, and it serves as a good diagnostic tool to test the ability of your site to convert traffic into dollars. If conversions are low, you can modify the site and get immediate feedback. Objectives Addressed: Driving Traffic, Sales or Leads Email Blasts: Blasts typically aren’t especially targeted unless your marketing partner has closely segmented its email list, and they can be expensive. However, they reach a wide audience directly, drive clicks and sales, and are a good way to achieve the “big splash” effect with an announcement, promotion or product launch. Objectives Addressed: Driving Traffic, Sales or Leads, Product Launches, Gathering Market/Customer Research Email Newsletters: Communicating regularly with your customers via e-newsletters is a great way to foster loyalty and brand engagement. This can be done by advertising in an existing e-newsletter or through your own company newsletter. If you’re collecting customer emails in an organized manner (which you should be), you have the foundation for an e-newsletter 16 || femsa.org || Winter 2008-2009

campaign. The effort required in consistently creating and distributing e-newsletters can be significant, but it pays off by engaging your customers with the latest product and company information.

flexible, they can address any objective; however, they are particularly well suited for Thought Leadership, Product Differentiation, Educating the Market and Brand Building

Objectives Addressed: Interacting with Customers, Market/Customer Research, Launching New Products, Driving Traffic, Sales and Leads

Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Search engine optimization (SEO) simply refers to taking steps to make sure your site appears high in non-paid search results on Google, Yahoo and MSN. SEO is a longer term strategy; if you operate in a crowded marketplace and are battling for highly competitive keywords, it could take a long time to move up to the top rankings, so be patient and diligent. There are a few basic SEO tips, such as using popular and relevant keywords, generating content for your site and participating in link exchanges with other web sites. But given the complexity of SEO, it’s highly beneficial to either hire someone with specific knowledge or work with an SEO firm.

Product Content Sponsorships: Anytime you can position yourself next to resources your customers are using to make purchase decisions, it is enormously beneficial. By being visible in a product research section that relates to your product, you are connecting the dots for them between a product need and a product solution – namely, yours. People seek out specific product informational resources because they are genuinely interested in purchasing or researching those products, so you are not only receiving highly targeted clicks, but you’re also associating your brand with products they’re interested in. Objectives Addressed: Product Launches, Differentiating Your Products, Driving Traffic Press Releases/Contributed Articles: Write and distribute press releases whenever you have news to communicate to the market. Many fire media entities will post them online at no cost to you, and they achieve the dual benefit of both communicating your news and also generating search engine value. Contributed articles aren’t directly promotional like press releases in that they don’t mention your product specifically, but by demonstrating expertise in a subject relevant to your product, you position yourself and your company as an authority. Objectives Addressed: Thought Leadership, Product Launches, Educate the Market Microsites: A very narrowly focused Web site that addresses a specific business problem and offers specialized information or promotions. While they fall on the more expensive side of advertising options, microsites have the potential to reach customers in a unique, engaging way with specific content that also reinforces your marketing objectives. For a fire-focused microsite example, check out www. firegrantshelp.com. Objectives Addressed: Microsites are so

Objectives Addressed: Driving Traffic, Sales or Leads Stay tuned for the next installment which will discuss questions three and four: evaluating a media partner vis-à-vis your objectives and determining the right level of spend. Alex Ford is CEO and one of the cofounders of the Praetorian Group, overseeing FireRescue1.com, PoliceOne.com, Homeland1.com and EMS1.com. Praetorian’s network of sites receives more than 1.6 million unique visits per month and counts 330,000 first responders as registered members, with 350 companies as sponsors. Within the fire market, Praetorian operates FireRescue1.com, VolunteerFD. org and FlashoverTV.com as well as several sponsored micro sites, including FireGrantsHelp.com, PPE101.com and FireRehab.com.

Visit Us at www.FEMSA.org

INTERSCHUTZ 2010, Coming Up!

By: Bill Kehoe For those of you who know (have been there), and for those who don’t know, the dates for the biggest fire service show on earth are about 18 months away. June 7-12, 2010, are the show dates for INTERSCHUTZ. So, mark your calendars now and begin your budgeting process to take advantage of being included in this excellent exhibition. In 2005, the last time INTERSCHUTZ was held, 80 US companies participated. They were part of a total of 1,385 companies who used 1,000,000 square feet of exhibit space. Yes, that’s 1 with six zeros after it—a huge amount of space, and everything from apparatus to miniature EMS pediatric catheters were shown. Hundreds of thousands of items. This exhibition promises to equal the last show, and will be held in a new venue—Leipzig, Germany. The fairgrounds are new too, as well as many city facilities. We have already secured three hotels with a total of 55 rooms. There are connecting flights to Leipzig from all major European cities as well as the excellent German train system. Some interesting facts from the last show to kind of whet your whistle into participating this time: there were 140,000 attendees in 2005, 30,000 of which came from non-European countries. This is significant in showing that INTERSCHUTZ is truly an international show; not only were fire service attendees in evidence but large numbers of business leaders, city managers, board members and administrators were there. Business deals, contract signings and agreements are common at this show. The US exhibitor prospectus is being designed as this newsletter is written and will be available before the FDIC show in April. INTERSCHUTZ staff will be in Indianapolis to talk with potential exhibitors and begin making arrangements. Donna Hyland (you may remember her from the Augsburg show in 2000), Project Manager, and Bill Kehoe, Project Consultant, will be the contacts for US exhibitors, and in particular the USA Pavilion. As the name implies, the USA Pavilion will be the central focus for US exhibitors. Last time a total of 34 companies comprised the pavilion which featured an easy to use turn-key operation. Freight shipments, infrastructure, furniture, electricity, communications, Internet access in each stand (booth) (new this time), refreshment lounge and outbound shipping are some of the features for pavilion exhibitors. All of this for one price—and it appears the price for 2010 will be almost identical to the 2005 fee. Between now and June 2010, frequent updates in the FAMA and FEMSA newsletters will be published, but anyone with questions is requested to contact: Project Manager Project Consultant Hotel/Travel Coordinator Donna Hyland Bill Kehoe Marie Coleman 15 Hillside Ct 4611 Strathblane Pl 8866 St. Anthony Court Clinton NJ 08809 Alexandria VA 22304 Elk Grove CA 95624 PH: 908-735-0559 PH: 703-751-6416 PH: 916-682-2537 CP: 609-227-4242 PGR: 703-705-9462 FAX: 916-689-4998 E-mail: dhyland@hfusa.com E-mail: kehoefd@aol.com E-mail: mariekcole@aol.com

Alexis Fire Equipment

[November 10, 2008] - Alexis Fire Equipment is pleased to announce the addition of three professionals to its sales staff Kevin Hunter has many years of experience in sales and service, and is a member of the Fox Lake, IL Fire Department. Kevin will be covering McHenry, Lake, Cook, Du Page, Will and Kane (East of the Fox River) counties in Illinois. He will also cover Porter and Lake County in Indiana, and Walworth and Kenosha counties in Wisconsin. Kevin’s addition will allow Alexis Fire Equipment to provide an even higher level of service for both your apparatus and equipment needs.

FEMSA MEMBER NEWS

Joel Schreiber has 17 years of product and sales experience in the fire service industry. Joel will be providing unique product solutions in Peoria, Tazewell, Woodruff, McLean, DeWitt, Macon, Piatt, Champaign, and Vermillion counties in Illinois. Tony Birchfied has 7 years of sales experience in the fire service industry, and is a member of the Cuba, IL Fire Department. Tony has a strong history of being a resource to his customers offering them multiple solutions for their needs. Tony will be covering Southern Fulton, Schuyler, Mason, Logan, Menard, Morgan, Cass, and Brown counties in Illinois.

CON-SPACE Communications

[December 2, 2008] CON-SPACE Communications launches joint distribution strategy for its Search Systems products. Gord Cook, President of CONSPACE Communications, announced it will distribute its newly acquired Search System products through a select sales channel. “In order to bring these great products to market and ensure our customers are supported properly, we’re limiting the number of distributors selling SearchCam Wireless Video Cameras and Delsar LifeDetectors to only those who represent the best in their specific regions,” said Cook. “We want to ensure our customers are properly supported,” Cook added. In order to accomplish this, CONSPACE has realigned its internal sales team enabling them to spend more time educating and informing distributors and technical rescue professionals. “We have always offered the Winter 2008-2009 || femsa.org || 17

FEMSA MEMBER NEWS world’s best confined space communications systems to the Technical Response Market,” stated Cook. Search System’s products represent the world’s foremost technical search gear. “That’s why we joined forces. We’re the only company that provides a completely integrated communications solution to rescue workers,” said Cook. With the acquisition and integration of Search Systems now complete, CON-SPACE will launch the next generation of integrated search and rescue gear to first responders beginning at FDIC in April 2009.

Cutters Edge

[November 28, 2008] Cutters Edge Opens New Manufacturing facility in Baker City, Oregon. Tom Ruzich, President of Cutters Edge has announced the company is in the process of relocating to a new 12,000 Sq. Ft. Manufacturing Facility in Baker City, Oregon. According to Ruzich, “The move to Baker City offers us a great opportunity to consolidate our current U.S. operations into one newManufacturing, Service, Training and Headquarters Facilitydesigned specifically to enhance all aspects of our business and customer support.” In addition to the news of the move, Tom also announced the promotion of Sue Barnes to the position of International Sales Coordinator. Barnes, a four-year Cutters Edge employee, will relocate to Baker City with the company. Troy Phillips, a Baker City native and on-site project manager during the construction of the new facility will assume production and procurement responsibilities for the company. Six employees from the Julian, California location are making the move with Cutters Edge, to Oregon. Ruzich plans to open the new Cutters Edge facility on January 2nd. Baker City is located in North Eastern Oregon, at the foot of the Elkhorn and Eagle Cap Mountains and along the path of the historic Oregon Trail. Cutters Edge new address is: P.O. Box 846 3855 23rd Street Baker City, Oregon 97814 Toll Free: 1-800-433-3716 Telephone: 541-524-9999 Fax: 541-524-9996 Email: truzich@cuttersedge.com www.cuttersedge.com

Elkart Brass Manufacturing Co. [October 2, 2008] Elkhart Brass Undergoes Another Expansion … 18 || femsa.org || Winter 2008-2009

includes both personnel and building.

front office addition, complete with a product showroom and training classroom area, and the fall of 2006 completion of the new 24,000 square foot, state-of-the-art, testing facility.

Fire Chief Publications

After more than 100 years in business, expansion is nothing new at Elkhart Brass. Continuing its tradition of leadership in the firefighting equipment industry, Elkhart recently announced the completion of the Engineering Wing at its corporate headquarters and a staff expansion to fill it. “As part of our on-going efforts to innovate and exceed customer expectations on new products, Elkhart Brass recently re-structured its engineering department,” stated Todd Lozier, Director of Engineering for Elkhart Brass. “Today, we’re proud to announce hiring for two of our new engineering management positions and a core staff position.” Steve Bollinger has been hired as the Industrial Systems Product Manager. Steve comes from a primarily automotive engineering background. He has been awarded seven patents and has extensive experience with international customers and new product concepts. Steve’s prior employers include Siemens and Federal Mogul, where he held positions in both Program and Engineering Management. He has a Bachelors of Science in Mechanical Engineering and is a registered Professional Engineer, licensed in five states. Bob Sutton has been hired as the Firefighting Nozzle Products Manager. Bob has worked in a variety of long-term, engineering leadership positions with the Robert Bosch Corporation. Additionally, he has held several other senior staff positions in other firms with specialized product lines. Bob holds a Bachelors of Science in both Mechanical Engineering and Aerospace Engineering, in addition to being a licensed Professional Engineer. Michael Keim has been hired as a Product Engineer. Prior to coming to Elkhart Brass, Michael was a Senior Industrial Design Engineer with Monaco Coach Corporation and has held a succession of engineering positions within the Monaco Corporation. Michael has a Bachelor of Science in Computer Aided Drafting and Design Technology. The new engineering team members will be located in the re-modeled and expanded Engineering Wing at the corporate headquarters in Elkhart, Indiana. Other recent Elkhart Brass building expansions include: the March 2007 unveiling of a new

[December 1, 2008] In December 2008, Fire Chief publications, a division of Penton Media, announced the launch of its “Station Style E-News.” Published monthly, the Station Style electronic newsletter targets fire and public safety officers, architects, as well as manufacturers and suppliers of public safety facilities. The e-newsletter will include news, features and columns related to the design and construction of new public safety facilities. Fire Chief’s Station Style ENews is in response to the continued demand for information on new public safety facilities and is an outgrowth of the annual Station Style Design Awards and Station Style Conference. For more information, contact Greg Toritto, Associate Publisher, 312.840.8469.

Fire-Dex

[September 23, 2008] Chrissy Foster Joins Fire-Dex. Chrissy Foster joined Fire-Dex as the Customer Service Representative for Chieftain Safety in 2008. Her responsibilities will include providing customer support to all Chieftain customers. She brings with her over 7 years of customer relations experience. She resides in Medina with her husband and two children. Fire-Dex is a quality manufacturer of protective firefighting clothing and emergency response apparel since 1983.

Fire Engineering/FDIC

[November 24, 2008] FDIC Honored by Trade Show Executive Magazine for Setting the Gold Standard. Carlsbad, CA – The Fire Department Instructors Conference was honored by Trade Show Executive magazine as one of the 100 largest shows in 2007 that have set the Gold Standard for the exposition industry. The prestigious award was announced at Trade Show Executive’s Gold 100 Awards Gala & Summit at the five-star Ritz-Carlton Resort in Laguna Niguel, CA, September 17-19. The inaugural event provided Gold 100 show organizers and industry executives the opportunity to celebrate the industry and their shows’ successes by recognizing the year’s largest trade shows in square footage, economic contribution, innovation and green initiatives. The Fire Department Instructors Conference ranked No. 62 in TSE’s Gold 100 Directory. Its 2007 event

occupied 347,103 square feet of exhibit space and hosted 837 exhibiting companies and 26,286 attendees. The FDIC’s gold ranking places the show in an elite group. There are over 13,000 trade shows in the U.S. each year according to the Center for Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR). TSE found that the top 100 shows collectively drew nearly two million professional attendees and generated more than $2 billion in economic impact to the 100 host cities. “The 100 shows honored at the Gold Gala are the giants in our industry, not only in sheer size but also in economic impact on their host cities,” said Darlene Gudea, VP/Publisher and editor of Trade Show Executive. “They have truly set the Gold Standard for the trade show industry and the industries they serve.”

Firefighternation.com/ Go Forward Media

[November 10, 2008] B2B Veterans Launch eMedia Strategy and Operations Management Firm for Publishing Brands As web-based and multi-platform revenue streams for magazine publishers move from being important for growth to a survival necessity, a team of veteran B2B executives has launched a firm that will provide full scope eMedia strategic and operational organization. “There is tremendous potential for publishers of all sizes to take major leaps forward in developing web-based and integrated media products,” Go Forward Media (GFM) Founder and President Dave J. Iannone said. “GFM will offer these companies solid strategic leadership combined with costeffective technologies and operational services to push their eMedia products further, faster. We’ll help these companies dream it, build it and operate it.” Iannone is left his full time role as Managing Director of Interactive Business Strategy at FOLIO: magazine parent Red 7 Media to start the new company. GFM (www.goforwardmedia.com) will continue to drive Red 7’s eMedia growth, including the launch of a major event industry portal in 2009. Interactive sales expert Paul Andrews serves as GFM’s Vice President of eMedia Sales Development, leading client product and revenue development, inventory optimization and sales training. Chris Hebert joined the company as Vice President of Content and Operations, focusing on project management and content development. He also manages the company’s public safety clients and product portfolio. The trio reunited after a few years apart, most recently working together launching some of the most successful Web

FEMSA MEMBER NEWS portals and products at Cygnus Business Media.

gram at Fireman’s Fund.

Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company

[December 2, 2008] Trio of Industry eMedia Veterans will Lead Digital Growth. Elsevier Public Safety (EPS), publisher of FireRescue magazine, among others, and a division of Elsevier Inc., today announces the addition of an eMedia strategy and operations leadership team comprised of three of the leading innovators in the industry. The trio of public safety veterans will lead a fully integrated approach to online content, marketing, sales and operations, enabling the development of a wide array of new and enhanced Web products across the fire, EMS, law enforcement and communications universe. Dave J. Iannone, who launched Firehouse.com 10 years ago and oversaw its tremendous growth, joins as Managing Director of eMedia Strategy. Iannone was formerly the Vice President of Interactive at Cygnus Business Media and was most recently Director of Interactive Strategy at FOLIO: Magazine parent company Red 7 Media. Interactive sales expert Paul Andrews will serve as Director of eMedia Sales, leading the EPS sales and marketing team in creating products and services with high impact ROI for advertisers and sponsors. Andrews, a FEMSA board member for four years, was formerly the Vice President of Interactive Sales at Cygnus and Firehouse. com. He most recently led eMedia sales teams in the real estate and public safety sectors. Chris Hebert will serve as Director of eMedia Content, focusing on expansion of Web-based editorial, features, services and project management. Hebert co-founded Firehouse. com with Iannone and was most recently Publisher of Cygnus Public Safety Interactive. “We’re really excited to have Dave, Paul and Chris join our team,” said Jeff Berend, Vice President/Publisher of Elsevier Public Safety. “This new leadership team – working in coordination with FireRescue Magazine editor Tim Sendelbach, Sheri Collins, Joe Skey and the rest of the staff - will allow us to create dynamic new digital offerings that will really raise the bar in the fire service. And, by engaging firerescue and EMS professionals in exciting new ways in the online environment, we will be creating fantastic marketing platforms for FEMSA members.” “I’ve long admired the JEMS name and all its brands, having been inspired to join the fire service as a teen after reading books by JEMS Founder Winter 2008-2009 || femsa.org || 19

[October 8, 2008] Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company Reaches $20 Million Milestone in Donations to Fire Service More than 1,000 Fire Departments Supported Since 2004 Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company today announced that its corporate philanthropy initiative, the Heritage ProgramSM at Fireman’s Fund, has surpassed the $20 million milestone since its inception in 2004. This is the company’s nationwide commitment to provide needed equipment, training, and community education programs to fire departments and other fire service organizations. During the past four years, more than 1,100 different fire departments have benefitted from the insurance company’s grant money. Donations average $20,000, but can range from $5,000 to more than $100,000. Grants are issued, in part, to fill the voids left by growing budget cuts. “This is a program that has a direct impact in helping local fire departments, big and small, all across the country,” said Mike LaRocco, president and chief executive officer. “The equipment purchased with our grant money not only makes communities safer, it has literally saved lives, and that’s what we’re most proud of.” Fireman’s Fund employees and its network of independent agents work together to identify specific needs and direct grants to local fire departments. Grant money is frequently used to purchase auto extrication gear, thermal imaging cameras, defibrillators, fire safety houses for children, and a variety of other equipment. Additionally, the company has supported national fire service programs by providing hundreds of thousands of dollars in matching funds for the International Association of Fire Chiefs-led ‘s National Fire Fighter Near-Miss Reporting System, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation’s “Everyone Goes Home” campaign and the National Volunteer Fire Council’s “Heart Healthy Initiative.” Because of the unique scope and impact of this initiative, the Heritage Program at Fireman’s Fund was honored with two distinct awards in 2008 – the American Business Award for Best Corporate Social Responsibility Program in the nation and the International Business Award for Best Corporate Social Responsibility Program in North America. Fireman’s Fund’s commitment to the fire service stems back to 1863, when the company was founded with a mission to donate a percentage of its profits to the fire service. This commitment was renewed in 2004 with the launch of the Heritage Pro-

FireRescue Magazine

FEMSA MEMBER NEWS Jim Page.” stated Iannone, “The professionalism and dynamic strength of the Elsevier brands in public safety will help us launch exciting new products for the men and women who put their lives on the line every day.”

Representatives from several other New Hampshire based manufacturing companies joined Globe in sponsoring this event, along with NAM representatives from New England and Washington, DC.

FireRescue1.com

[December 1, 2008] Hannay Moves Into New Addition

[November 17, 2008] FireRescue1.com is proud to announce that Kurt Ludwigsen has joined its team as Director of Sales. Kurt brings a wide range of online and broadcast sales expertise from his previous leadership positions at Comcast, Military.com and Match.com. Kurt is based in the San Francisco office and will oversee all segments of online sales. With more than 70,000 registered members and 375,000 monthly unique visitors, FireRescue1.com serves the firefighting community by providing firefighters with the most complete range of information and resources available.

Globe Manufacturing Company

[November 11, 2008] Globe Manufacturing Company recently hosted a reception for U.S. Senator John Sununu of New Hampshire. At the reception, Senator Sununu was recognized as a winner of the National Association of Manufacturers Award for Manufacturing Legislative Excellence. This award goes to Senators and Representatives whose voting records on key manufacturing votes demonstrate an understanding of, and support for, the manufacturing sectors key role in the US economy and society.

20 || femsa.org || Winter 2008-2009

Hannay Reels

Hannay Reels has now moved into the upper level of its new 44,000 square-foot addition on the south end of the company’s Westerlo, NY property. Employees have gained some much-needed additional space for fabrication, hose installation, and outbound shipping. A new paint oven and conveyor system are centerpieces of this expansion, more than doubling production capabilities while improving the durability of reel finishes. Over the next several months, additional departments will begin occupying the lower floor of the new building.

IAFC Foundation

[November 26, 2008] Scholarship Awards Help First Responders Further Their Fire Service Education The IAFC Foundation has announced the winners of its 2008 scholarship awards. A total $25,500 is being awarded to 32 first responders, the majority of whom are firefighters and company officers. Award winners represent all types of departments, including volunteer, combination and career. These motivated first responders are pursuing degrees and taking courses in Fire Science, Fire Service Administration and Management, Fire Protection and Fire Safety Engineering Technology, Arson Investigation, Public Affairs, Business, Public Safety and Public Administration, Paramedic training, Health Science and Emergency Medical Services, Public Safety Management, Executive and Organizational Leadership, Disaster Planning and Homeland Security. A listing of all scholarship winners may be found at www.iafcf.org. Educational scholarship awards are made possible with support from thoughtful individuals, companies and foundations. Regrettably, each year the Foundation must turn away qualified applicants due to lack of contributions. Let’s make sure that in 2009, all qualified applicants can be funded. Now is your chance to give back to the fire service and to support our future leaders. Donations to the IAFC Foundation

are tax-deductible. If you are interested in donating, sponsoring or endowing a scholarship award, or would like information on how to apply for a scholarship, please contact Ms. Judy G. Kirk at jkirk@iafc.org. IAFC Foundation Thanks You for Your Support Every day first responders experience incidents which underscore the need for a well trained, educated, versatile fire and emergency service whether it be preparing for potential terrorist attacks and mass casualty events, responding to a wildland or structural fire or providing emergency medical services. The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) Foundation helps ensure that first responders are prepared through educational advancement to face these challenges. The support received from individual donors, foundations and fire service related companies makes these crucial educational scholarships possible. The IAFC Foundation thanks the following FEMSA and FAMA companies that contributed to the IAFC Foundation scholarship fund this past year: * Duo-Safety Ladder Corp. * L.N. Curtis & sons Emergency Equipment * Oshkosh Truck Corporation * Super Vacuum Manufacturing Co., Inc. * W.S. Darley & Co. These contributors see the value of ensuring that our future fire and emergency service leaders are knowledgeable in a wide array of fields of study. These future leaders will be the ones budgeting and purchasing, determining resource allocation, addressing personnel and labor relations issues for the fire and emergency medical service. The IAFC Foundation also thanks the IAFC and VFIS/Glatfelter Insurance Group for in-kind support.

Kidde Fire Trainers, Inc.

[November 24, 2008] Louis Orotelli KFT Sales & Marketing Director Kidde Fire Trainers, Inc. is pleased to announce Louis Orotelli as the company’s Sales & Marketing Director. In this expanded role, Lou will lead the KFT international sales team toward continued growth in our market segments with focus on the growing markets in Europe and Asia. Lou has successfully handled this role on an interim basis since March this year. Lou will be responsible for overseeing KFT sales management & reporting, sales strategy, new business proposals, and establishing & maintaining agreements with independent representatives and distributors. Prior to this role, Lou was the International Marketing Manager since

2001. He will continue oversight of this function, including strategic planning, pricing and marketing activities. Lou will continue to represent KFT in the Fire and Emergency Manufacturers and Services Association (FEMSA) trade group. Prior to working at Kidde, Lou held roles of increasing responsibility in engineering and marketing with Cairns & Brother, Inc., a manufacturer of firefighter’s equipment. Lou holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering from Villanova University and an MBA in Marketing from Seton Hall University.

L.N. Curtis & sons

[November 26, 2008] L.N. Curtis & sons is excited to announce the acquisition of certain assets of Aames-Allen Firefighters Bookstore, which will now operate as a new, wholly owned L.N. Curtis & sons corporation under the name, Firefighters Bookstore, Inc. Aames-Allen Firefighters Bookstore has been the premier supplier of instructional, educational and recreational books, CDs and videos to the fire service for many years. Ms. Peggy Glenn is the founder, has been the operator of the bookstore for the past 25+ years, and will be joining the L.N. Curtis & sons team as a marketing specialist for the Firefighters Bookstore, Inc. products. Peggy is an accomplished writer and editor, and has dedicated much of her adult life to helping the fire service educate themselves. Having Peggy join the L.N. Curtis & sons team is a real win for our customers and ourselves. Brandon Winters, Director of Business Development for ECMS, and now also Firefighters Bookstore, Inc., will be responsible for the business operations. The products and services offered by Firefighters Bookstore, Inc., can be viewed at www.firebooks.com This addition of Firefighters Bookstore, Inc. will increase L.N. Curtis & sons’ overall exposure in the education of our customers. We believe that educated customers are safer customers.

PBI Performance Products, Inc [November 25, 2008] PBI Performance Products, Inc. Celebrates 25th Anniversary On October 25 and 26, PBI Performance Products, Inc. headquartered in Charlotte, NC, celebrated its 25th anniversary with an open house at its Rock Hill, SC plant. Besides guests from

FEMSA MEMBER NEWS

every major North American manufacturing and distribution partner, the PBI family was honored to receive guests from all parts of the world. Visitors from Germany, New Zealand, Scotland, Japan and China were present to share the weekend celebrations with US PBI personnel, as well as company sales and marketing executives from Great Britain, Germany, Spain and Hong Kong. Former PBI employees were also in attendance. PBI hosted a banquet on Friday evening attended by over 250 guests. Speakers included US Representative John Spratt of South Carolina’s 5th congressional district. Congressman Spratt paid tribute to the role that PBI fiber has played over its 25 years in protecting astronauts, US military personnel and firefighters all over the world with its superior thermal stability. PBI was first created by a scientist from Celanese Corporation, the original owner of the PBI business group. It was first brought into use after the 1967 Apollo tragedy, which took the lives of three astronauts during a training mishap. NASA set out to identify the most thermally stable materials in the world to upgrade astronaut protection and discovered the polybenzimidazole (PBI) molecule in Celanese archives. In 1983 the outstanding value of PBI fiber as a flame protective material led to the construction of the Rock Hill plant and the commercialization of PBI. Congressman Spratt who chairs the budget committee and holds a key position in the Armed Services Committee, noted that PBI will be needed more and more as US and allied troops are exposed to Incendiary Explosive Devices and thermal threat. Mr. Spratt has been instrumental in bringing the protective value of PBI to the attention of the military. In 2005, The Intertech Group, Inc. of North Charleston, SC, purchased the PBI business from Celanese and set about revamping it for its next generation of growth. Mrs. Anita Zucker, CEO of the Intertech Group, addressed guests with the vision she and the company share in seeing PBI continue to grow and expand into new

and diverse applications. Mrs. Zucker emphasized the family values that she believes are essential in building a more successful PBI enterprise and shared her late husband Jerry Zucker’s beliefs that individual efforts are essential in building a great business as well as a great community. Grant Reeves, President of PBI Performance Products, Inc. capped off the evening with the announcement that PBI will be investing at least $15 million dollars over the next five years to expand PBI production and product diversification. At least 19 additional jobs will also be created. “This is an exciting time for the PBI business. We have grown the business over 50% in the past three years and will need to invest this capital to accommodate the anticipated growth over the next 25 years.”

Plastisol Composites NA

[December 2, 2008] Plastisol Composites Announces Factory Opening Alan and Richard Saulsbury, former owners of Saulsbury Fire Rescue in Preble, announce their return to the fire apparatus industry with their new manufacturing facility located in the Groton Industrial Park, Tompkins County, New York. The new company, Plastisol Composites North America, is a joint venture with Plastisol BV located in The Netherlands. Bodies and cab components constructed from composite materials will be distributed throughout North America through established emergency vehicle builders and dealers. Production is under way on bodies, tanks and cabs for fire trucks made from high strength, non corrosive composite materials. The new facility has 20,000 square feet of production space with an attached 2,500 square foot office building and incorporates the latest in manufacturing technologies. The site has land available to add additional manufacturing and storage capabilities. There are currently 10 employees (with three coming from the former Saulsbury Fire Rescue) at the new facility. There are plans to have a staff of 30 in the near future.

RealWheels Corporation (RWC) [December 3, 2008] Chicago area manufacturer RealWheels Corporation (RWC) has enlisted the help of one of America’s legendary rock bands “CHEAP TRICK” to help launch their new I.D.E.A. Division. The I.D.E.A. division (Innovative Design & Engineering Applications) works with companies at the OEM

Winter 2008-2009 || femsa.org || 21

FEMSA MEMBER NEWS

level, creating new product designs, innovative vehicle enhancements, and quoting on existing parts and components. As part of the launch, the Project Vehicle Team at RWC created a rock-music themed promotional vehicle that will visit trade events, auto shows and other promotional functions throughout the next 12-18 months. RWC, MTV Games, and close to 30 additional sponsors combined their efforts in creating this extremely interactive example of vehicle customization, unique products and trim accessories. The vehicle was unveiled in Las Vegas in November of 2008, and its next appearance is scheduled for the Consumer Electronics Show in January of 2009.

Scott Health & Safety

[November 22, 2008] The 17th World Championship of the Scott Firefighter Combat Challenge was held at Fremont Street Experience, Las Vegas Nov 1115. With more than 20,000 spectators per day watching the games, this was one of the best attended events ever. New Zealand, Germany, Canada and the US fielded more than 650 athletes. The opening ceremonies featured the Las Vegas Mayor, Oscar Goodman, city manager, council members and the fire chief. Versus Network (which carries NHL, Tour d’France and other action sports) will broadcast a mini-series starting on Saturday, January 3 for four successive weeks. Check local listing for broadcast times. Alameda County (CA) took the Team title and Clayton County (GA) sewed up all of the three relay categories (Open Male, Female and Over-40). The 2009 season will kickoff on the US Capitol Mall coincidental with the annual CFSI dinner.

Setcom Corporation

[November 12, 2008] Setcom Corporation (www.SetcomCorp.com), an industry leader in communications systems and accessories for police motorcycles, 22 || femsa.org || Winter 2008-2009

fire apparatus, and other public safety and military vehicles, announced the decision to relocate corporate headquarters to Austin, TX, from Mountain View, CA, effective January 5, 2009. The relocation will enable improved service and support for customers throughout the United States and in 20 countries around the world by operating from the Central Time Zone. In addition, a lower cost of doing business and access to a strong workforce in the Austin area will allow the Company to continue to provide high-quality products assembled in America at competitive prices. Further information will be forth coming to customers and dealers so that the company’s 38 years of trusted service will not be interrupted.

Streamlight

[November 19, 2008] Going Green: Streamlight’s Commitment to Rechargeable Battery Recycling It’s popular these days for companies to tout their “green” initiatives, but Streamlight’s commitment to helping the environment is more than just talk. For a number of years, Streamlight has participated in Call2Recyle, a national program directed by the Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation (RBRC), and designed to help keep Nickel Cadmium (Ni-Cd), Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH), Lithium Ion (Li-ion), and other rechargeable batteries out of the solid waste system. While these heavy metals present no threat to human health or the environment when being used, they can be toxic to soil, ground water and air when disposed of in landfills or burned in municipal incinerators. Funded by Streamlight and other manufacturers and marketers of portable rechargeable batteries and products, the program lets consumers return their used rechargeable batteries to participating national chains such as Home Depot, Staples, Circuit City, Best Buy, Lowe’s, Fastenal and Target. RBRC provides its battery recycling seals to licensees like Streamlight to imprint on rechargeable battery packs to ensure that Ni-Cd, Ni-MH, Li-ion and other battery packs are easily identified as recyclable by end users and retailers. The Call2Recycle program sends all recyclable rechargeable batteries to the International Metals Reclamation Company, or INMETCO, in Ellwood City, PA, where cadmium and other environmentally hazardous materials are recovered from used batteries and used to produce new ones. Streamlight also arranges to have recyclable rechargeable batteries at its Eagleville, PA headquarters picked up and taken to INMETCO for recycling. So, be sure to remind your customers to return rechargeable batteries from their Streamlight products to participating

retail stores. For the closest location, customers can visit www.rbrc.org or call 1-800-8-BATTERY. At present, there is no similar national recycling program for alkaline and other non-rechargeable batteries, but local hardware and other retail locations may accept them. So help your customers to feel good about helping to protect our environment!

Tempest Technology

[November 24, 2008] New Regional Sales Manager, Aaron T. Simmons Effective October 6, Aaron Simmons joined Tempest with five years of experience selling fire fighting equipment as well as experience selling fire vehicles. He was most recently employed by ESI Equipment, Inc., selling and supporting Holmatro Rescue Tools in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware and W. Virginia. Aaron has been a member of the Moon Township Volunteer Fire Company since 1993 and is currently a Firefighter/ Paramedic. He will be relocating to the Dallas/Ft. Worth area with his wife and two sons, a three year old and a two week old. Aaron officially started Monday, October 6, and has been working closely with Tempest National Sales Manager Thomas Fox, and Tempest Regional Sales Managers Eric Lohse and Curt Johnson. Aaron’s territory will include all Tempest Technology accounts in AL, AR, KS, LA, MO, MS, NE, OK, TN, TX. He can be contacted for demos and dealer training.

Tule Fog Productions LLC

[November 22, 2008] For over three years, Tule Fog Productions LLC has been developing and now producing The Battalion-The Series … Our Nation’s Firefighters 24/7. Each webisode has the look and feel of a fully produced episodic series for television. Most recently, The Battalion Series won the Bronze at the 29th Annual Telly Awards in New York for Reality. This was the first time the Series was entered, and the first win. The Battalion Series has expanded on the East Coast, covering Washington, D.C. Fire and EMS, The 100% Kentland Fire Company, all of Prince George’s County, and soon the first responders from the Institute of Health (NIH) in Bethesda, MD. On the West Coast, the Series is expanding with the addition of the County of Los Angeles and returns to San Francisco during the holidays. Christian Porter joins the editing team at TFP in anticipation of the new

series that will begin in January 2009 as the production company crosses the nation, filming in the Mid-West and the South during the first quarter of 2009.

W.S.Darley

[September 25, 2008] W.S. Darley & Company Hires Stephen D’Agostino as Customer Relations Manager, Government Division Continuing to execute its strategic plan to increase federal government business, W.S. Darley & Company has hired Stephen D’Agostino to manage customer relations for the Government Division. With more than 20 years of government acquisition and logistics experience in the fire and emergency services arena, D’Agostino will lead Darley’s vendor and customer relations

efforts for federal government business. He is filling a new position that was created due, in large part, to Darley’s recent award for all five regions of a Tailored Logistics Support (TLS) Program for Fire and Emergency Services. The TLS program is a Defense Logistics Agency contract that provides worldwide support for Federal Agencies. “Steve has impressed me for many years as an extremely accomplished acquisition specialist for the government,” said Paul Darley, President and third generation leader of W.S. Darley & Company. “His expertise and business contacts will make Steve an invaluable addition

to the Darley team.” Prior to joining Darley, Steve had a distinguished career at the Defense Logistics Agency. He was an integral part of the Fire and Emergency Services Prime Vendor Program at DSCP, where he excelled as an Acquisition Improvement Manager, a Customer Liaison Specialist and a Commodity Logistics Specialist. His previous experience as a Firefighter and Technical Rescue Specialist gave him tremendous insight into the needs of the customer that marked his career. Steve is a member of the Buck’s County Fire Chiefs and Firefighters Association, the Bucks County Technical Rescue Task Force, and the Southampton Fire Company.

THE 2009 EVENTS PLANNER

FDSOA Apparatus Specification/Maintenance Sym....................................................... Jan 18-21...................................................................................Orlando, FL Contact: Mary McCormack at FDSOA 508-881-3114 Fire Rescue East.............................................................................................................. Jan 28-31.......................................................................Daytona Beach, FL Firehouse World . ...... ..........................................................................................................Feb 15-19 (Ex. Feb 17-19) .................................................... San Diego, CA Contact: Mary Velline 800-827-8009 Southwest CAFS Seminar............................................................................................... Feb 26-28............................................................................ Rosenberg, TX Fire PPE Symposium . .................................................................................................. March 9-11 . ...........................................................................Charlotte, NC Industrial Fire World......................................................................................................... Mar 23-25..............................................................................Beaumont, TX Wildland Fire (IAFC) 703/273-0911................................................................................. Mar 24-26..................................................................................... Reno, NV EMS Today Conf. & Expo ......................................................................................... Mar 24-28 .......................................................................Baltimore, MD Contact: Ed Nichols 203-840-5968 FAMA Spring Meeting....................................................................................................Mar 27-Apr 1........................................................................ St. Augustine, Fl CFSI Fire Caucus Dinner................................................................................................... Apr 1-2..............................................................................Washington, DC Saskatchewan Fire Chiefs............................................................................................... Apr 23-26..........................................................................Prince Albert, SA FDIC - Fire Department Instructors Conference ...............................................Apr 20-25 (Exhibits 23-25)...............................................................Indianapolis, IN Contact: Lila or Nanci at Fire Engineering 888-TEL-FDIC FAMA Tech. Comm........................................................................................................... Apr 26 ?..............................................................................Indianapolis, IN Ontario Fire Chiefs.............................................................................................................May 2-6................................................................................. Toronto, ONT Station Style Conference by Fire Chief Magazine............................................................May 3-6.................................................................................... Denver, CO IAFC Fire-Rescue Med Conference..................................................................................May 4-6...............................................................................Las Vegas, NV IAFC Eastern Division........................................................................................................ May 14.......................................................................................... York, PA Penna. Fire Expo.............................................................................................................May 15-17............................................................................. Harrisburg, PA Contact: Tina Alexander at 717-464-3291 Alberta Fire Chiefs...........................................................................................................May 23-27.............................................................................Red Deer, ALB Hazmat Response Teams Conference............................................................................May 28-31........................................................................... Hunt Valley, MD British Columbia Fire Chiefs.........................................................................................May 31- Jun 4........................................................................... Namaimo, BC Manitoba Fire Chiefs.......................................................................................................... Jun 4-6.................................................................... Portage la Prairie, MB Quebec Fire Chiefs............................................................................................................ Jun 6-9........................................................................................................ Rimouski, QUE NFPA World Safety Conference....................................................................................... Jun 8-11.....................................................................................Chicago, IL Fire 2007 (New York Fire Chiefs) 703-934-4700.............................................................Jun 11-13 .........................................................................Lake George, NY IAFC Southeastern Division............................................................................................ Jun 18-20......................................................................... Myrtle Beach, SC New England Fire-Rescue/IAFC N. E. Division.............................................................. Jun 18-20........................................................................W. Springfield, MA Metro Chiefs..................................................................................................................... Jun 21-25.............................................................................Edmonton, ALB Health, Fitness and Safety Symposium (Phoenix FD).................................................... Jun 23-25.................................................................................. Phoenix, AZ Maritimes Fire Chiefs Conf...................................................................................................Unk........................................................................................................... IAFC Missouri Valley Division............................................................................................ Jul 9-11........................................................................... Overland Pk, MO Firehouse Expo: . ..................................................................................................Jul 21-26, (Ex. 23-25).....................................................................Baltimore, MD Contact: Mary Velline, 800-827-8009 Fire-Rescue International............................... Aug 27-29.................................................................................... Dallas, TX Contact: Sara Baeth at IAFC 443-627-2200 FAMA Tech Meeting.......................................................................................................... Aug 28 ?..................................................................................... Dallas, TX Incident Management Symposium (Phoenix FD)..............................................................Sep 2-4................................................................................... Phoenix, AZ IAFC Southwestern Div.....................................................................................................Sep TBD..............................................................................Little Rock, AR New Jersey Firefighters................................................................................................... Sep 17-18................................................................................Wildwood, NJ Pittsburgh Fire/Rescue & EMS........................................................................................Sep 18-20..............................................................................Pittsburgh, PA Contact: Kelly Simon Productions 800-747-5599 FDSOA Annual Conf. ...................................................................................................... Sep 21-25..................................................................................Orlando, FL Contact: FDSOA 508-881-3114 Fire Rescue Canada.............................................................................................................Unk........................................................................................................... National Fallen Fighters Memorial Weekend ................................................................... Oct 3-4.............................................................................Emmitsburg, MD Fall Meeting : FEMSA (8-9) FAMA (10-11)........................................................................Oct 7-11.............................................................................Washington, DC Firehouse Central/EMS................................................................................................... Oct 26-30................................................................................... Atlanta, GA Contact: Mary Velline, 800-827-8009

Winter 2008-2009 || femsa.org || 23

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