FEMSA News Winter 2013

FEMSA News Winter 2012 - 2013

The Resource for Public Safety Businesses

www.FEMSA.org

The Fire Department Instructors conference is the proud sponsor of this edition of FEMSA News.

FIRST-TIMERS’ IMPRESSIONS OF THE ANNUAL MEETING PAGE 14

2012 ANNUAL MEETING RECAP PAGES 12-13

A TRIBUTE TO THE FALLEN AND THEIR SURVIVORS PAGE 18

PrESIDENT’S MESSAGE Page 2

WINNEr oF EquIPMENT GIvEAWAy Page 10

TrADE ShoW rEPorT cArD Page 16-17

MEMbEr NEWS Page 19-22 Winter 2012 / 2013 • FEMSA.org

1

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Cliff or Opportunity Ahead?

Throughout your career, you have probably had many opportunities that certainly looked like a cliff as you approached them.

Additionally, some of you may have also had the stimulating experience of finding yourself over a cliff, and having to create an opportunity. This is definitely how it appears things are shaping up as I compose this article. Are you and your company ready to innovate to deal with the future?

Those of you who attended the annual meeting received quality information about innovation in the fire service. In addition, the economic and Washington updates, coupled with the networking opportunities with fellow industry leaders, provided the catalyst for business innovation. It is these tools and information that are core goals for FEMSA. Unfortunately, unless we can get our political act together for the long term, our industry may find itself over a cliff much like it was a few years ago. This will leave many of our customers and industry partners looking to create new opportunities for their service models. Political

FEMSA News

Winter 2012-2013 games and federal budget priorities will certainly have an even deeper impact on our member companies. The pressure for FEMSA members to be creative and innovative comes in addition to managing the effects of direct legislation and tax changes imposed on every business in the US. What does that mean for FEMSA? That means FEMSA is doubling down on its commitment to its members through communication and creating new programs to help provide information. In 2013, we will be reactivating the insurance committee.

This committee will be a resource for helping members provide insurance at more reasonable costs. The GAC will continue its efforts to follow our government, and the CGC will complete the data collection needed to approach the Canadian government to make the fire service a national issue. Lastly, we will continue to improve our statistics offerings through timely reporting and adding one more segment to the portfolio currently offered.

As we exit from a busy 2012, it certainly appears that our customers, our industry and our country will have many more “opportunities” to deal with in 2013.

Official Publication of 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 Twitter - www.twitter.com/FEMSANews Copy and Advertising Deadlines: Contact the FEMSA office.

Provided to members as a benefit of membership. Articles from members are encouraged. FEMSA reserves the right to edit for factual content, brevity and clarity. Articles with product placement and branding will be edited or referred for paid advertising placement.

Current Active FEMSA Committees: Annual Meeting Planning Bill Lawson, Committee Chair Janet Wilmoth, Board Liaison

Education

Greg Toritto, Committee Chair Janet Wilmoth, Board Liaison

Governmental Affairs

John Granby, FEMSA GAC Co-Chair Richard Boyes, FEMSA CGC Chair Rod Carringer, CGC Board Liaison

Insurance

Patrick Hull, Committee Chair Giff Swayne, Board Liaison

Marketing/Internet/Newsletter

Joe Skey and Gabe Steinbach, Committee Chairs Paul Andrews, Board Liaison

Membership

Joe Porter, Committee Chair Doug Schaumburg, Board Liaison

Nominating

Sincerely,

Barbara Connolly, Committee Chair Judy Weigand, Board Liaison

Statistics & Research

James Long, Committee Chair Dan Reese, Board Liaison

Dan Reese

Strategic Planning Executive Committee

Trade Shows / Report Cards Ken Nielson, FEMSA Chair

User Information Guide Program Don Welch, Committee Chair Bill Van Lent, Board Liaison

Thanks to our advertisers: FDIC (Issue Sponsor) Fire Chief Firehouse FireRescue Magazine FireRescue1.com ©Copyright 2013, FEMSA, MA (USA) Editors: Karen Burnham, Dan Reese Editorial Staff: Mary Murphy-Overmann* Layout and Cover Design: Melinda House* *Windmill Hill Consulting, LLC

2 Winter 2012 / 2013 • FEMSA.org

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CONTENTS 2

President’s Message

4 6

2013 FEMSA Board of Directors Governmental Affairs Committee (GAC)

6

FEMSA Board Strategic Planning Event

7

Insurance Committee Revitalized

7

In Memoriam

8

Canadian Governmental Committee (CGC)

8

Thank You From National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

10

The 9th Edition of Facts About Modern Manufacturing

10

Now Available! A Proud Tradition: 275 Years of the American Volunteer Fire Service

10

Winner of Equipment Giveaway

12-13

2012 Annual Meeting Recap

14

First-Timers’ Impressions of the Annual Meeting

15

Thank You to Our Sponsors

16-17

Trade Show Report Card

18

Lessons from Lincoln

18

A Tribute to the Fallen and Their Survivors

19-22

Member News

23

2012 Fire Service Events Calendar

4 Winter 2012 / 2013 • FEMSA.org

2013 FEMSA BOARD OF DIRECTORS Officers/Executive Committee Dan Reese President Alexis Fire Equipment (309) 482-6121

danr@alexisfire.com

FEMSA Professional Resources Karen Burnham Executive Assistant to the Board

(781) 334-2771 info@femsa.org David Gatton

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

Governmental Affairs Consultant

Development Initiatives, Inc. (202) 957-6530 dgatton@dinitiatives.com Bob Grimaldi

Mike Natchipolsky Secretary-Treasurer FireRescue1.com (240) 606-4297 mike.natchipolsky@praetoriangroup.com Ken Nielsen Executive Committee Member Paratech Incorporated (815) 469-3911 knielsen@paratech.us

Travel Planner

Rome Travel Bureau, Inc. (904) 495-5055 Rometravel3@gmail.com Melinda House Senior Graphic Designer / Layout

Windmill Hill Consulting, LLC (314) 956-8520 mindy@windmillhillconsulting.com James J. Juneau Legal Counsel

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

(972) 866-8333 jjuneau@juneauboll.com Mary Murphy-Overmann Newsletter Editor

Windmill Hill Consulting, LLC (314) 314-369-9669 mary@windmillhillconsulting.com Gabe Steinbach & Simon Steinbach Webmasters

Board Members Paul Andrews

FirefighterNation.com Go Forward Media (240) 595-2352 paul@goforwardmedia.com

Windmill Hill Consulting, LLC (314) 504-0945 gabe@windmillhillconsulting.com

Doug Schaumburg Casco Industries, Inc. (318) 865-5107 doug@cascoindustries.com

Rod Carringer Task Force Tips, Inc. (800) 348-2686 rac@tft.com

Giff Swayne Past President Holmatro, Inc. (410) 768-9662 x103 gswayne@holmatro-usa.com

Melinda Freeman Kidde Fire Fighting

William Van Lent Veridian Limited, Inc. (712) 262-5200 bvl@veridian.net

John Granby LION Apparel, Inc.

Judith Weigand Amkus, Inc. (630) 515-1800 jweigand@amkus.com

(352) 804-4709 melifree@mfi.net

(937) 415-2843 jgranby@lionprotects.com

Winter 2012 / 2013 • FEMSA.org

5

OUR WORK IS NOT DONE. WE NEED YOU FOR 2013 HILL DAY explosions, workplace accidents, and medical emergencies.

By Dave Gatton

T

he FEMSA and FAMA Hill Day will be held this year, May 8-9, 2013, in conjunction with the 25th Annual National Fire and Emergency Services Dinner (Thursday, May 9th). It is extremely important that the fire services industry, which FEMSA and FAMA uniquely represent, arrive in strong force to show our support for the hundreds of thousands of first responders who protect the American public daily.

After so many severe weather events last year, capped off by the devastating Hurricane Sandy, the response and rescue role our first responders fulfill has never been more apparent.

Of course, these major catastrophic events receive the most press attention; this is understandable and even justified. But the quieter tragedies happen every day that don’t make the national news: the car wrecks, house fires,

Some end tragically, others with heroic rescues.

All are a type of hurricane, only targeted to the isolated families and loved ones involved.

As our storms become larger and more dangerous--this is what the experts tell us--and as our population ages at a dramatic pace, our first responders will be needed even more. As an industry, we will need to respond with them, giving them what they need to do their jobs more efficiently and effectively.

I have seen at the FEMSA and FAMA meetings how totally devoted the members are to this mission. Sure, we are in business, but it is a business with a calling. All of you take it personally, I know. I can see it in your eyes. And it is why I am proud to be associated with you in what I consider to be your “public” service, although privately performed.

So in this spirit, I know I speak for the FEMSA and FAMA GAC co-chairs and members, we want to thank you for your participation in 2012 and for your commitment to be there for us and the fire service in 2013.

As of this writing, we are making real progress. On January 2nd, 2013, President Obama signed the 2013 Defense Authorization Act. The bill contains the re-authorization of the AFG and SAFER grant programs as well as the U.S. Fire Administration. The bill authorizes $750 million annually for each of the AFG and SAFER grant programs through Fiscal Year 2017.

Thank you, FEMSA and FAMA members, for your work and commitment toward ensuring the extension of these programs.

As for the 11th-hour fiscal cliff negotiations, we’ll continue to watch the implications of all the “posturing” by the parties. And Congress will spend the rest of the year implementing the budget compromises through tax reform and appropriation bills.

That is why we strongly encourage you to participate in the FEMSA and FAMA 2013 Hill Day. The stakes are high in maintaining the partnership the fire service has with our federal government. After all, it is in the national interest, and it does sooner or later touch every American family. •

FEMSA BOARD STRATEGIC PLANNING EVENT The two-day FEMSA Board Planning Meeting in New Orleans, LA in early November netted more than budgets and activities for 2013. Here’s your Board at work.

A Lotta Work and a Little Fun in NOLA

6 Winter 2012 / 2013 • FEMSA.org

FEMSA INSURANCE COMMITTEE REVITALIZED

F

EMSA is pleased to announce that its Insur-

Patrick Hull of Jacobs-Weber has agreed to chair

have an interest in serving as a member of this

ance Committee has been re-activated. The

the committee. He and his colleagues have

committee, or have any insurance questions, feel

primary focus will be to provide information

assembled a team of experienced and specialized

free to contact Patrick directly – email:

and guidance to members to assist them in their

firms and agencies that are ideally suited to be

phull@jacobs-weber.com

businesses.

resources regarding business insurance, providing added value to all FEMSA members. If you

In Memoriam

FEMSA IS SADDENED TO REPORT THE PASSING OF INDUSTRY FRIENDS .

OUR CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILIES OF Robert Mills Sutphen, (Sutphen Corporation) age 89, of Columbus, Ohio, died in Cheboygan, MI on September 10, 2012.

Brian K. Chestnut who died October 6, 2012. Brian was the brother of Wes Chestnut (Spartan Motors).

Francis M. “Mike” Brick (Ansul Co., Hurst Performance, Phoenix Rescue Equipment) who died on November 20 at the age of 82.

NEW! REVISED EDITIONS

PROTECTIVE GARMENTS FOR STRUCTURAL AND PROXIMITY FIRE FIGHTING USER INFORMATION GUIDE User Information Guides

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE USER INFORMATION GUIDE (UIG) GO TO:

www.femsa.org/uig Official publications of FEMSA originally established in 1996. Manufacturers of PPE (ensembles and equipment) want first responders to know the strength of their products as well as their limitations. Proper care of garments is also addressed in the publications.

Almost a dozen manufacturers comprise the UIG consortium, and attach a UIG to each item of their product when it leaves the factory. Currently there are 18 guides that cover structural fire fighting protective clothing, hoods, helmets, boots, and gloves; emergency medical operations protective garments and face protection devices; wildland boots; proximity garments, helmets, footwear and gloves; and Urban Search and Rescue protective garments. The UIGs undergo periodic review to maintain consistency with changes in NFPA standards.

UIG Guides created by the Members of the FEMSA UIG consortium.

New members are always welcome.

Certain UIGs also available in French and Spanish

Winter 2012 / 2013 • FEMSA.org

7

Winter 2012 / 2013 • FEMSA.org

9

THE 9TH EDITION OF FACTS ABOUT MODERN MANUFACTURING

F

acts About Manufacturing, a collaboration of The Manufacturing Institute, the Manufacturers Alliance for Productivity and Innovation (MAPI) and the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) is now available.

The 2012 edition of Facts is a compilation of 65 charts with analysis of a wide array of data for the manufacturing sector. Facts highlights the importance of manufacturing to the U.S. and global economy, and is the first comprehensive update from the groups since 2009.

The data assesses the role of manufacturing in a number of key areas including: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Economic Growth Innovation Employment and Compensation Environment Trade and Investment Competitiveness

The downloadable publication is available on The Manufacturing Institute’s website. •

NOW AVAILABLE! A PROUD TRADITION: 275 YEARS OF THE AMERICAN VOLUNTEER FIRE SERVICE

I

n honor of the 275th anniversary of America’s volunteer fire service, the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) has released a new publication honoring the past, present, and future of our nation’s volunteers. A Proud Tradition: 275 Years of the American Volunteer Fire Service pays tribute to the millions of dedicated

individuals who protect our communities every day and honors the rich heritage of volunteers.

A Proud Tradition looks at the evolution of America’s volunteer fire service, from its earliest beginnings, to changes in equipment and apparatus, to current issues facing today’s volunteers such as expanding scope and recruitment and retention.

Visit the NVFC website at www.nvfc.org to order a print copy of this beautiful, 84-page, full-color magazine available to NVFC members for the extra low price of $5.95 and to non-members for $10.95. The publication makes a great fire department resource, personal keepsake, or gift. You can download the electronic version for free. •

WINNERS OF EQUIPMENT GIVEAWAY From Fire Chief Robert Anderson, Jr.:

Appalachia firefighters (l-r): John King, Alex Owens and Christine Honaker

F

or investing the effort of completing the 2011 annual survey, firefighters in Appalachia, Virginia had a splendid return on their investment: free gear! The department was automatically entered in the drawing with their survey response.

10 Winter 2012 / 2013 • FEMSA.org

“The equipment that we received from FEMSA and FAMA included PMI USAR helmets, water appliances, firefighting nozzles, six upgraded R5 rope rescue / extrication helmets and specialty firefighting nozzles. The USAR helmets replaced our aging helmets that we had been using since 1996.

The helmets are lighter and meet current ANSI and NFPA standards. We also received several appliances and nozzles to complement our new engine received on a grant through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program. We placed into service two Akron 2 1/2” smooth bore nozzles with stack tips on our new engine. Also placed on our new engine were two specialty nozzles and two gated wyes from Elkhart Brass and Task Force

Tips. The two cellar or distributor nozzles from Elkhart Brass will be utilized to combat specialized fires prone to our area. A chimney snuffer nozzle kit from Task Force Tips was also received and will be utilized to combat chimney fires.

This specialty nozzle will allow firefighters to utilize water without damaging a homeowner’s flu liner in the event of a chimney fire. The last items we received were two Elkhart Brass 2 1/2” to 1 1/2” gated wyes. One wye was placed on the front bumper discharge of our new apparatus to supply a 150’ 1 3/4 “ handline and 150’ 1” forestry line. The second wye was placed on our highrise pack for highrise firefighting operations.

The Appalachia Fire Department and its personnel would very much like to thank FEMSA, FAMA, Akron Brass, Elkhart Brass, TFT and PMI for providing us this much needed equipment.” •

IMMEDIATE.

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Andy VanSciver Publisher/Brand Manager 312-840-8461 andy@firechief.com Janet Wilmoth Editorial Director 312-840-8410 janet@firechief.com

Chiefs and assistant chiefs are most likely to control their departments’ decision-making process.

Source: FIRE CHIEF Reader Profile Study 2011

Winter 2012 / 2013 • FEMSA.org

11

201 2 AN N UAL

by Karen Burnham

F

EMSA’s 2012 Annual Membership Meeting and Conference Program were held September 27-28 at the Renaissance Hotel, Glendale, Arizona.

The FEMSA Board met September 26th to ensure that all “I’s” were dotted and all “T’s” were crossed so that presentations would provide great value and take-away to all members in attendance.

FEMSA members gathered Thursday morning for breakfast, and at 9:00 am sharp, President Dan Reese officially called the business meeting of the FEMSA membership to order. At the call of roll, there were over 100 individuals from 67 member companies present at the meeting. By all accounts, this was a record-breaking year for FEMSA in terms of attendance. We applaud Bill Lawson and Janet Wilmoth of the Annual Meeting committee for their diligence to capture a spot-on theme and to secure dynamic speakers and presenters, as well as Greg Toritto and Steve Elias of the Education Committee for developing strong Fire Drill topics and moderators.

The highlights of the business meeting included: • Board of Directors’ Report – Dan Reese • Treasurer’s Report (financial update) – Mike Natchipolsky • State of the Fire Service Survey Results – Melinda Freeman - and drawing for the winner of the iPad and $5,000 worth of equipment – Lancaster County Fire Service, Kirshaw, SC • Committee Reviews º Nominating – Barbara Connolly º Statistics – Dan Reese º Governmental Affairs – John Granby º Annual Meeting – Bill Lawson º Marketing/Internet – Joe Skey º Membership – Joe Porter º Education – Greg Toritto – including the ini-

12 Winter 2012 / 2013 • FEMSA.org

tiation of the new Mentoring Program for new members and first-time attendees º Trade Shows – Ken Nielsen º User Information Guide Program – Bill Van Lent • Elections - Presentation of candidates who volunteered to serve for the next three years on the FEMSA Board of Directors. Congratulations to Rod Carringer (TFT), Melinda Freeman (Kidde), Mike Natchipolsky (FireRescue1.com), Dan Reese (Alexis), and Giff Swayne (Holmatro) who were elected to the Board and whose terms began January 1, 2013.

• Caucus Groups – Preview of the next day’s session where members meet with others in their caucus group to discuss common issues.

• Roger Weinmeister (SuperVac) was honored and thanked for his dedicated service during his 3 full terms (9 years) as a Director on the FEMSA Board (2001-2010).

by Janet Wilmoth

M

ore than 175 FEMSA and FAMA members and guests participated in this year’s threeday conference.

The keynote speaker was Jeff Johnson, executive director of the Western Fire Chiefs and past president of the IAFC. Johnson spoke on “Innovation.”

“What we’re in right now really is the perfect storm,” said Johnson. “It’s the collision of the economy—the first time in our adult life—and dwindling, waning public support. These two are colliding directly with technology.”

Johnson spoke on the future of the fire service.

“Accreditation and standards of cover will drive change in this industry quicker than anything could.”

“Once fire chiefs begin to think about our business and efficiency, it will change the game.”

Johnson emphasized the importance of better statistical data and knowing how to interpret that data. “We in the fire service have got to know our data better than our enemies because, I promise you, if we don’t, we lose, because the history of doing otherwise is indefensible.”

Johnson explained the importance of FirstNet, a national board of directors charged with spending $7 billion to build a nationalized mission critical, broadband radio system for a single platform of coverage.

Mr. Reese announced the next annual meeting of the FEMSA membership will be held September 25-27, 2013 in Tampa, FL, and adjourned the business meeting at 11:25 am. The conference program resumed at 1:00 pm with speaker presentations with members of FAMA. •

“Culture eats change for lunch. The fire service is the most tenacious culture of any I have ever seen.” “There’s a new reality for fire departments.

Change is the topic in the fire service right now.

Some people are hanging on for dear life, but the horse is out of the barn.”

M E ETI NG REC AP

Dr. Anirban Basu talks economics to a packed house at the annual meeting The conference also featured a roundtable: Enhancing Innovation in the Fire Service. Bill Webb, CFSI moderator and panel members included Anirban Basu, chairman and CEO, The Sage Policy Group; Peter Darley, Darley Company; Rich Young, DuPont; Mark Burdick, Chief, Glendale, Ariz., Fire Department and Mark Light, IAFC.

what went wrong . His advice for dealing with this kind of negativity included: • • • • • •

Decide whether to respond or not respond – discuss with appropriate manager Acknowledge the issue Correct misinformation Offer a source if one exists Go offline if need be Ask them to remove the posting

Bill Webb, executive director, Congressional Fire Service Institute, announced May 9th, 2013, as the date of the 25th Annual CFSI Dinner. He added that Hill Day next year would be “one of the most important Hill Days because of budget cuts.” Next year is the fortieth anniversary of “America Burning” and Webb encouraged members to read the report from The National Commission on Fire Prevention and Control.

Among the highlights of the panel discussion, Anirban Basu spoke of handling more data at higher speeds and learning to fight fires faster, with less damage to cheaper structures and less danger to people. Basu also cautioned, “If you pay retired firefighters a lot of money, you have to find cheaper firefighters. If they get hurt or ‘melt’, what have you saved?”

Mark Light advised that professional associations need to be “brokers of ideas” and share those ideas with members nationwide. Chief Mark Burdick pointed out that the fire chief is now the “fiscal shepherd.” “The fire chief today is managing a lot more functions…hazmat, contracts, etc,” he said.

FEMSA member Paul Andrews, Go Forward Media, spoke on how “Social Media is Changing Everything.” Andrews particularly focused on companies that have negative comments posted about them on websites. They need to be proactive in determining

The conference concluded with the ever-popular Fire Drill Session, which featured nine mini-seminars on topics ranging from iPad Sales Presentations and Apps for work productivity to Disaster Preparedness and CCR: The new CPR. •

by Bruce Whitehouse

A

t the Fall Meeting we were fortunate to, once again, have Dr. Anirban Basu treat us to an engaging presentation on economics. And, in a manner similar to his 2011 appearance, Dr. Basu entertained attendees with his wit and knowledge in a talk called “How Quickly Things Can Change – For Better or For Worse.”

Dr. Basu predicted that we are embroiled in a multi-generational problem that will take 20-plus years to resolve. In other words, our children and

our grandchildren will be involved in the aftermath.

He projected that, regardless of who wins election in November 2012, the President and Congress will need to be more aggressive with the federal deficit.

Basu said that if the “fiscal cliff” is allowed to occur, the most likely outcome will be a 4.5% drop in GDP which would end up pushing the US economy into a recession. But he went on to say that with 8% unemployment, stubbornly high fuel prices, a weak stock market, and frustration and dissatisfaction with the federal government, consumers tended to “work out” their frustrations at the mall! And IF consumers keep spending, it will be hard to slip into a damaging recession.

He further commented that municipalities are going to continue to struggle with entitlement funding as well as the overall effect of weak employment. As an example, unemployment and the drop in housing values have combined to sharply impact mobility and cause a drop in US home ownership from 69% in 2007 to 66% in 2012. Not surprisingly, unemployment rates are highest and municipalities are most challenged in areas with the weakest housing markets. Unfortunately, weak municipalities don’t have the funds to invest in safer, more efficient fire equipment, apparatus and training.

Dr. Basu did suggest that a recession, while not impossible, was not imminent and that 2013 could have a more posi positive look if the federal politicians were to work together and if pressures from other parts of the world receded.

Always spirited and clever in his talks, perhaps Dr. Basu will bring a brighter and more positive message if we again have the pleasure of hearing him bring life to the engaging world of economics. •

Winter 2012 / 2013 • FEMSA.org

13

FIRST-TIMERS’ IMPRESSIONS OF THE ANNUAL MEETING 1. “As a first-time attendee to the FEMSA annual meeting, I felt the organization provided an excellent, in-depth program not only for manufacturers, but for the distributors as well.

The round table “Fire Drill” segment portion of the program provided an opportunity to hear different views and aspects of our industry that provided information to assist us as a distributor, and that will also aid us as well as the manufacturers we represent in serving the fire departments as we prepare and lay out a business plan for the future.”

Chet Garrison of Garrison Fire 2. Firstly, I have to say I was skeptical about being in the same room with my direct competition. However, I was pleasantly surprised about the primary discussions around user safety and what we can do as manufactures to ensure the highest level of safety and service to our customers. Secondly, as a new member to the industry, I felt it was an amazing opportunity to learn about the critical challenges that face our suppliers, dealers, and end users, and more importantly, the dynamics that control them. Also, I’m sure you heard this from others, but the guest speakers were outstanding.

Chris Jaques General Manager – Hurst Jaws of Life ®

3. We were very impressed with the speakers and the round table meeting. It was extremely helpful to our company and helped us to understand items such as trade show techniques and economy in the US. The program was fantastic from start to finish and seemed very seamless and welcoming.

Tony Jumeau Product Manager of Wildfire Environmental Inc.

5. This was my first FEMSA conference. I found the speakers enjoyable and informative.

As a distributor, the time spent with other distributors as well as our suppliers was well worth my time. The breakout sessions were extremely informative and right on point to what we experience each day. I will certainly recommend others to attend the FEMSA conference in the future.

Tim Henderson L.N. Curtis & sons

4. This was my first FEMSA Conference. For our organization, FIRE 20/20, the conference was a networking mecca. The pilot mentoring program for new members made me feel welcome, gave me a better understanding of both FEMSA and the conference, and introduced me to some of FEMSA’s movers and shakers. with appreciation, Larry Sagen Executive Director FIRE 20/20™

6. The FEMSA event was excellent. We enjoyed the opportunity to network with our vendors and advertisers, and it was even pleasant to get to know our competitors in a friendly environment. The speakers were knowledgeable and entertaining and we particularly loved the economic speech from Mr. Basu.

James Witmer Vice President/Director of Business Development Witmer Public Safety Group, Inc. •

member area of the association’s website: www.femsa.org. (username and password required)

Smartphone Applications for Work, Home and Travel Productivity - by Kris Kaull (FireRescue1.com)

In addition, you’ll find these Fire Drill handouts that may be of interest to you:

We thank Rod and Kris for moderating these titled segments and for preparing and sharing these handouts with all members. •

T

he Marketing Committee in conjunction with the new Membership Committee have produced a video that can be viewed by scanning the QR code above. You are more than welcome to share this video with prospective members.

The video gives a clear reflection of FEMSA member benefits and what to expect in the first year of membership. We plan to share more videos on www.femsa.org. Any and all feedback is welcome. • As a follow up to the annual meetings held in Glendale, Arizona, you can find the business meetings and presentation reports in the secure

14 Winter 2012 / 2013 • FEMSA.org

Avoid Common Exporting Mistakes - by Rod Carringer (Task Force Tips)

FEMSA/FAMA 2012 FALL MEETINGS-GLENDALE, ARIZONA www.femsa.org

www.fama.org

SPONSORS OF the FEMSA/FAMA 2012 FALL MEETINGS IN GLENDALE, ARIZONA

Hospitality Suite Networking Reception Business Speaker Banquet Open Bar FAMA Breakfast Roundtable

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT Winter 2012 / 2013 • FEMSA.org

15

TRADE SHOW REPORT CARD

By Summer Johnston and Ken Nielsen (Paratech)

S

tarting with this issue of the newsletter, the FEMSA/FAMA Trade Show Committee is taking an expanded approach in reporting the survey results. Before the complete survey results are distributed to the membership, the Trade Show Committee will meet with trade show management to gather feedback on the most repeated concerns vocalized in the surveys. This feedback will be published in the format presented below. We believe this feedback will help to give the membership a more complete picture of how management of the major trade shows is responding to the ever-changing needs of their customers and the industry.

July 19-21, 2012 / Baltimore, MD Q: There are a number of concerns about decrease in attendance and slow traffic. What is Cygnus going to do differently next year to increase Firehouse Expo’s attendance?

A: Firehouse Expo show management has been meeting with local, state, and federal agencies to see how they can increase attendance by looking at what they can do for the attendee in terms of increasing education, lowering hotel rates, addressing the need for a weekend pass for families, creating a “Firehouse Theater” of new products, and looking at how they can increase attendance from surrounding states.

There will be no outside events taking place during exhibit hall hours.

Some events have been added to the show floor during show hours to increase floor traffic like “tailgating on the show floor” for the Boston Red Sox game! They are also working in conjunction with the local FOOLS and firefighter unions to partner in social events after the exhibit floor closes.

Q: A few exhibitors stated that they will not be coming back to the show next year. What is Firehouse Expo show management going to do to entice current exhibitors back?

A: They plan on enticing exhibitors back by changing the framework and overhauling the exhibit hall to create the buzz of a fresh show by having a dedicated networking event daily, creating more quality traffic and reducing costs. Exhibitors want this show to be successful. This is their show. Communication with everyone on our improvements, as well as our plans going forward, is important to regain exhibitors’ trust to come back and continue to exhibit.

Q: Price, as always, is a continuous concern. Is Firehouse Expo show management planning on doing anything to reduce prices for next year or subsequent years?

A: The overall cost of attending or exhibiting at any show is often times a determining factor. We are currently in discussions with every

16 Winter 2012 / 2013 • FEMSA.org

hotel in our block to reduce the nightly rates for our exhibitors and attendees. Lead retrieval units are now included with every booth purchase at the show. We continue to work with our partner, Freeman, to get better rates on furnishings and move-in and move-out costs. For the last two years, Firehouse has picked up the cost of the spotting fees for apparatus companies.

Q: Is there anything you would like to say to the exhibitors to address their concerns of the staff changes for the Firehouse shows?

A: Firehouse Expo and Firehouse World events were built by a number of good people. It is with extreme gratitude to those fine people that we move forward. I recognize the value of those relationships to you, and I am confident that you will enjoy close relationships with the new Firehouse team as we improve our focus on innovation, customer service and action to lower costs and improve value and ROI for you. Ed Nichols, Vice President – Events Cygnus Business Media.

August 3-4, 2012 / Denver, CO Q: Major concerns regarding attendance. How is this being addressed?

A : The IAFC has looked at the overall attendance for Fire-Rescue International and is working on many fronts to deliver positive ROI for the exhibitors by creating a more diverse show and changing the content to align with the members needs and wants by adding various programs that will draw attendees to the show floor.

• The association is providing new content to targeted audiences, such as the Company Officer Leadership Program (COLS) and the Executive Chief Officer Program, to attract chiefs and chief officers to Fire-Rescue International.

• The IAFC rolled out new, money-saving registration packages and negotiated discounted hotel rates for Fire-Rescue International attendees.

• The Fire-Rescue International show management encourages attendees to come to the show floor by hosting the COLS Award luncheon, introducing a track for metro chiefs, topical and VIP tours, and food concessions during exhibit hours.

• The association brought chiefs who normally wouldn’t have attended Fire-Rescue International to the conference through its new hosted buyer program, fleX, to meet one-on-one with businesses.

Q: Denver as a location was called out as being too far away from large

TRADE SHOW REPORT CARD

By Summer Johnston and Ken Nielsen (Paratech) cations. Fire-Rescue International will be held August 13-17, 2013, at Chicago’s McCormick Plaza, and August 12-16, 2014, in Dallas; future dates and locations will be announced in spring 2014.

populations to draw a crowd. Is the IAFC ready to announce the future site selections for Fire-Rescue International’s coming years?

A: Overall, general registrations in Denver were up compared to Atlanta, and the last time Denver hosted Fire-Rescue International.

The association understands that some exhibitors were adversely affected by the cancellation of the DoD portion of the program, which was due to circumstances beyond the IAFC’s control.

Looking ahead to the future, the IAFC is actively working on FireRescue International site selection, taking into consideration meeting and show space, hotels, costs, multi-year discounts, concessions from the host city and drive-in traffic and its effect on attendance.

Please note that FEMSA and FAMA are represented on the IAFC site selection committee to ensure your needs are represented through the process, and the committee has been vetting possible lo-

Q: There were a number of issues with show services and Freeman.

What can Fire-Rescue International show management do to help?

A: If you experience issues regarding show services and Freeman, please contact Fire-Rescue show management. They can help you by addressing the problem immediately. Freeman staff is different in every city. Remember to document everything – who did you talk to, when, what was the result, and pay attention to exhibitor updates and the service manual. •

2012 ATTENDANCE RESULTS TRADE SHOW

EXHIBITORS

FIREHOUSE WORLD FDIC NY CHIEFS FIREHOUSE EXPO FRI PA EXPO

ATTENDEES

FEMSA/FAMA MEMBERS EXHIBITING

1,596

4,850

83

4,703

24,707

139

2,858

11,927

51

1,596

9,121

67

2,882

6,636

104

2,647

15,991

54

NOTE: all attendance results are self reported by trade show organizers

Trade Show Report Card Results 4

B B

3.5

3

B- B-

B

B C+

C

B-

C

2.5

2.89

2012

2.68

C+ C

3.14

NY Fire Chiefs 3.33

Firehouse Expo 2.88

2.48

3.44

2.78

2.36

2.63

3.45

2.93

2.49

2.38

FRI

37 of 54 respondents

2011

C

24 of 104 respondents 45 of 114 respondents 23 of 112 respondents

Firehouse World 2.92

FDIC

2010

C

15 of 67 respondents 14 of 79 respondents 29 of 83 respondents

0

24 of 51 respondents 21 of 62 respondents

0.5

14 of 54 respondents

1

79 of 139 respondents 111 of 165 respondents 80 of 242 respondents

1.5

29 of 83 respondents 39 of 86 respondents 24 of 92 respondents

2

B

B-

PA Fire Expo

3.07

Winter 2012 / 2013 • FEMSA.org

17

Member News

Praetorian Group Names Mike Natchipolsky Director of Business Development for Fire and EMS The Praetorian Group, Inc., has named Mike Natchipolsky Director of Business Development for Fire and EMS. Natchipolsky most recently served as Publisher of Firehouse.com and Regional Sales Manager for Firehouse Magazine, a subsidiary of Cygnus Business Media. He brings more than 10 years of experience in publishing and online media in the fire market. In addition, Natchipolsky sits on the board of directors for the Fire and Emergency Manufacturers and Services Association (FEMSA) as the Secretary-Treasurer, and has been a volunteer firefighter/EMT with the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad since 1991. Prior to his work at Firehouse, he served as National Sales Manager for DataNational, a subsidiary of Volt Information Sciences. In his new role, Natchipolsky will utilize his extensive knowledge of online media and his first-hand firefighting and EMS experience to lead Praeto-

rian’s FireRescue1.com and EMS1.com sales and relationship management teams. He will focus on both new and existing business relationships, developing custom marketing programs for public safety companies looking to reach a broad audience of first responders.

Joe Volk was appointed General Manager for Spartan ER in Brandon, South Dakota. Joe brings over 20 years of manufacturing and customer management experience to Spartan.

He comes to us from Terex Utilities, where he served as Director of Operations for two South Dakota facilities. At Terex, he was responsible for HSE, Lean, Manufacturing Engineering, Site Operation Management and Sourcing.

Prior to his work with Terex, he served as the North American Lean Production Systems Manager for Doosan (Bobcat), Ingersoll-Rand in North Dakota.

Drew Schramm has joined Spartan ER as Senior Vice President of Supply Chain Management. Drew is responsible for all supply chain and materials management activities across the

company. He is a highly experienced supply chain executive and will add much to the scope of our BOM reduction initiatives. He comes to us most recently from Herman Miller, Inc. where he was the SVP Global Supply Chain.

Prior to his 14 years at Herman Miller, Drew was the Group Director Global Procurement and Materials Management at Praxair. He also served as the Corporate Director of Purchasing at Abbott Laboratories.

Richard Holzman has joined Spartan ER as National Accounts Manager. Mr. Holzman comes to Spartan ER from the Department of Fire and Rescue Services, Montgomery County, MD where he held numerous management positions including Fire and Rescue Assistant Chief and Fire and Rescue Battalion Chief.

Montgomery County is the largest combination fire department in the United States. In his most recent position, Holzman was responsible for the consolidation and centralization of five maintenance facilities, and the daily apparatus and equipment needs of 35 MCFRS support stations, four federal fire stations and the county training academy. Accordingly, Holzman’s ability to identify cost of operation/ownership improvements for Spartan customers is exceptional and is a value-add that fire departments are seeking with increasing frequency. •

FEMSA Advertising Rates for the Newsletter and Website Website Rotating

A one-time $750 set-up charge applies.

160x600 banner ad, (3 month min.)

Maximum of 4 advertisers in the slot at any given time. Rates are per month.

Postings online for FEMSA members is always FREE.

3x .............................................$175/mo

Members are allowed to post the following types of events:

6x .............................................$150/mo 12x ..........................................$125/mo

Print Ads Quarter Page ............................$175

local, regional and national trade shows; training events and seminars; other Fire/ Rescue/EMS events where the public is encouraged to attend.

Half Page ...................................$250 Full Page (8.5” x 11”)...............$500 Newsletter Sponsorship .........$2700 Non-Members are welcome to advertise on the FEMSA website or in the FEMSA Newsletter.

22 Winter 2012 / 2013 • FEMSA.org

Submission does not guarantee inclusion.

We reserve the right to reject any listings.

Fire and Emergency Manufacturers and Services Association (FEMSA) P.O. Box 147 Lynnfield, MA 01940-0147 Phone - 781-334-2771 Email - info@femsa.org www.femsa.org www.twitter.com/FEMSANews FEMSA now has over 400 members on LinkedIn. Join us!

LESSONS FROM LINCOLN armies that by then was clearly inevitable did not of itself promise an end to slavery.

Lincoln understood that he could not take it for granted that slavery would just go away when the war ended. He knew it could not be destroyed with an executive order or even a law enacted by Congress. The only way to drive a stake through that monster’s heart was with an amendment to the Constitution. The Senate had already approved the measure and Lincoln knew there were enough states ready and willing to ratify it. But he had to get it through the House.

by Jerry Jasinowski

A

ll of Washington is abuzz about “Lincoln,” the Steven Spielberg movie starring Daniel Day-Lewis. It focuses on the 16th President’s carefully modulated strategy for prying the 13th amendment out of a reluctant House of Representatives and thereby freeing the slaves.

“Lincoln” is an important story well told.

Day-Lewis’s impersonation of Lincoln is spot on right down to the great man’s high-pitched voice, lumbering gait and profound melancholy.

To watch that film is to walk into the White House in January 1865 and make eye contact with one of the great figures of human history.

You can almost see the weight on his shoulders and feel his anguish at the mournful tide of death engulfing his world.

But the pols and pundits in Washington are flocking to “Lincoln” for another salutary purpose – to see a vivid example of how our political system is supposed to work. This film is not about Lincoln the demigod spouting inspired rhetoric; it is about Lincoln the politician cutting backroom deals with shady characters in pursuit of a noble goal.

In the movie, Lincoln makes that case that I had, frankly, never considered – that neither the Emancipation Proclamation nor the triumph of arms guaranteed freedom for four million slaves.

The Emancipation Proclamation was nothing more than an executive order of questionable legality that could have been overturned by another President, and it probably would have been overturned by Lincoln’s successor Andrew Johnson. Likewise, the triumph of the Union

All the House Republicans were with Lincoln, but they did not comprise the needed twothirds majority for a Constitutional amendment. He needed Democratic votes, but the Democratic leadership was adamantly opposed to emancipation. So Lincoln zeroed in on two dozen or so Democrats who, having lost their reelection bids, were lame ducks. He figured they would be looking for work and he, as President, controlled many jobs. Offering government jobs in exchange for votes for the amendment was unseemly to put it mildly, but that is the point of the movie. To get things done in Washington, even very worthwhile things, you have to cut deals and make compromises.

That is what Washington needs today – less ideology and more practical no-nonsense deal making. I highly recommend this movie for its entertainment value, its contribution to history and as a primer for members of Congress and the administration now locked in negotiations over a budget deal. Go watch the master at work.

Jerry Jasinowski, an economist and author, served as President of the National Association of Manufacturers for 14 years and later The Manufacturing Institute. •

A TRIBUTE TO THE FALLEN AND THEIR SURVIVORS

2012 National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend Honors 85

D

espite grey skies and chilly drizzle, thousands of fire service members and returning survivors offered support and comfort to loved ones of the 85 firefighters who were honored during the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend, October 6-7, 2012.

tion (NFFF) Board of Directors, spoke about the traditions, culture, and history that define the fire service.

In his remarks, Chief Dennis Compton, Chairman of the National Fallen Firefighters Founda-

Chief Ernie Mitchell, United States Fire Administrator, spoke about the unparalleled commit-

18 Winter 2012 / 2013 • FEMSA.org

“All of us in the fire service realize we are members of a greater family. And we understand the need to take care of each other’s loved ones when tragedy strikes,” he said. “And remember that the Foundation is resolute in our service to you-the survivors. We are here for you, at any time.”

ment of firefighters to aid their communities at any time. “These courageous men and women put their lives on the line as they willingly stand between the dangers of fire and those threatened by it with purpose, vision, determination, perseverance, integrity, and courage.”

As the names of each firefighter were read, family members were escorted forward to receive a flag that was flown over the U.S. Capitol and the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial. They also received a red rose and a specially designed badge. Special tribute readings to the fallen were also shared. •

Member News To register and for more details on the current program guide, go to www.fdsoa.org

25th Annual FDSOA Apparatus Symposium moves to new location

We are proud to announce that we are changing our company name from Hansen Fire & Safety to FireCraft® Safety Products. The name change celebrates the significant expansion of our product lines bearing the FireCraft® brand name. Our company will continue to operate in its current structure and your contacts will not change. However, our email addresses have changed: Tom Lochner Tom McCoy Toni Gill Kathy Freiburger Sales Website

ASHLAND, MASS. The Fire Department Safety Officer Association is celebrating its 25th Annual Apparatus Specification and Vehicle Maintenance & Safety Symposium, January 20-23, 2013, by moving to a new location at the Wyndham Hotel Buena Vista, Orlando, Florida.

The move to the Hotel Buena Vista, across from the Disney Village Marketplace, will offer attendees the same great programming at reduced room rates plus wi-fi and free parking.

This year’s keynote speaker for the 25th Annual Apparatus Symposium will be Stephen Raynis, Chief of Safety for FDNY. Ever-popular attorney James Juneau of Juneau, Boll, Stacy & Ucherek Attorneys will also be speaking about legal exposure for fire departments. Programs will include EPA Changes on Engines, Maintain Versus Purchase New, and Budget Realities From a Business Manager. Breakout seminars will include Braking and Roll Stability, New Government Regulations on Tires, Electrical Requirements, Writing Specifications, and more. An all-new Ambulance Track will include sessions on the Patient Compartment, the new NFPA 1917 Standard, and specifying your next ambulance. The 2012 Emergency Vehicle Technician of the Year will also be announced during the General Session.

tlochner@firecraftsafety.com tmccoy@firecraftsafety.com tgill@firecraftsafety.com kfreiburger@firecraftsafety.com sales@firecraftsafety.com www.firecraftsafety.com

As always, we will continue our goal of offering high quality, innovative products at affordable prices. We look forward to an exciting future serving the first responder market worldwide.

Fire-Dex Donates $100,000 Worth of Gloves to Firefighters in Areas Devastated by Hurricane Sandy Medina, OH, December 3, 2012: In an effort to support the continued hard work of firefighters and first responders in New York and New Jersey, the areas hardest hit by Hurricane Sandy, Fire-Dex is donating 1000 pairs of its new G1 firefighting glove; a retail value worth over $100,000.

“Fire-Dex’s goal is to protect those who risk personal peril in service of others. We can think of no better way to live into that mission than to support the first responders and fire fighters helping those devasted by effects of Hurricane Sandy,” said Brett Jaffe, President and CEO of Fire-Dex. “We are saddened by the losses suffered by many and sincerely appreciate the efforts of all the firefighters working diligently

and doing their best to restore the affected communities. Together with our dealer partners at Firefighter One in New Jersey, GA Chivvis in Long Island and others in the area, we intend to get these much needed gloves out to those departments that can use them in their efforts”.

The Fire-Dex G1 glove is a specialty glove designed specifically for firefighters and meets the strict standards set forth by the National Fire Protection.

Fire service industry veteran joins Firehouse; Expansion of sales territories to support accelerated growth Cygnus Business Media is pleased to announce that Rich Gluth has joined the Firehouse franchise as a regional sales manager covering upper Midwest and West Coast accounts for its print and digital products.

Rich comes to Firehouse as a seasoned sales professional, most recently serving as the Eastern Regional Sales Manager for Fire Chief and Wildfire at Penton Media. In his seven years at Penton he handled an extensive territory that billed more than $1 million annually and spanned close to half of the United States.

Prior to his work at Penton, Rich held sales and management positions at Baxter Healthcare and Winstar Communications, and he founded Gluth Communications, a successful marketing communications firm that focused on website development and printing services for the healthcare industry.

In addition to his business and sales experience, Rich has an extensive background in the fire service. He served as a career paramedic and firefighter in Barrington, Illinois from 1982-1999, and he is still an active volunteer in Wisconsin, where he currently holds the rank of EMS Chief and also serves as a firefighter and fire inspector.

“Rich’s extensive knowledge of the industry, coupled with his business background, makes him an ideal fit for this position,” says Firehouse group publisher, Greg Toritto.

Winter 2012 / 2013 • FEMSA.org

19

Member News In addition to Rich’s appointment, Firehouse is also pleased to announce expanded coverage for West Coast clients to support its growth in this market. Taking on that new role will be Marcela Cretaro, a Firehouse sales specialist who has been with the franchise since 2000.

Marcela started her sales career in classified sales and quickly advanced into Marketplace and more recently display advertising for Gulf Coast and Canadian customers.

“Marcela is a true sales professional and industry expert who prides herself on uncovering sales opportunities and helping her clients succeed,” notes Greg Toritto.

contest is conducted annually to honor reporting and photography that best portray the professional and dangerous work of fire fighters and emergency personnel in the United States and Canada.

WTC: In Their Own Words, edited by Harvey Eisner, was also named a second place designee in the Benjamin Franklin Writers Award for 2012. Ronny J. Coleman, President, National Fire Heritage Center, noted, “The publication is an outstanding example of how words can help fire protection in this country. Your efforts in putting together this project is simply outstanding. To quote Dr. Denis Onieal, Superintendent of the National Fire Academy, ‘As sad as the book’s subject is, Harvey captures the details and emotions of one of America’s worst days.’”

“These new appointments, coupled with a host of new data intelligence products, will provide Firehouse customers with the solutions and support they need to succeed during these challenging times in the fire service,” says Greg.

Firehouse Wins Prestigious Awards Firehouse App Wins Editorial Award The July issue of the Firehouse Limited Edition App was named Best B2B App (Editorial) at the recent min’s Editorial & Design Awards.

The award committee said, “The July edition of Firehouse’s editorial app stands tall with two tablet exclusives, plus a feature on helping fire departments better understand the technology evolving in their hands. Fully interactive and educational, it’s no wonder the App is the fastest-growing editorial product at Firehouse.”

Firehouse Associate Publisher Jeff Barrington was on hand to receive the award.

WTC: In Their Own Words Garners Two Awards A special Firehouse publication, WTC: In Their Own Words, was recently awarded first place in the category of special onetime projects in the International Association of Fire Fighters Media Awards Contest. This

20 Winter 2012 / 2013 • FEMSA.org

Globe, DuPont, and NVFC Award Gear to Fire Departments in Missouri, Vermont, and Ontario, Oklahoma, Texas, West Virginia, Indiana and Virginia Globe, DuPont, and the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) are celebrating Globe’s 125th anniversary by giving away sets of gear to volunteer fire departments in need. In multiple rounds of donations, sets of gear were awarded to Sleeper Volunteer Fire Department (MO), Pittsfield Volunteer Fire Department (VT), and Moose Creek Fire Department (Ontario, Canada).

Globe is a fourth-generation family-owned business founded in 1887. To say thank you to the first responders who selflessly devote their time and risk their own safety to protect their communities, Globe has partnered with DuPont and the NVFC to give back to resource-constrained fire departments across the country by donating much-needed sets of gear. Over 2,600 departments applied for the gear, demonstrating the critical need for a program of this nature.

Sleeper Volunteer Fire Department is located in the rural community of Lebanon in southwest Missouri. The department relies entirely

on donations and member dues to support their firefighting and first response efforts.

With the struggling economy, the already tight budget has become even tighter. None of the department’s gear is NFPA compliant, and at times firefighters have to share the outdated gear they do have.

Pittsfield Volunteer Fire Department is located in a small, rural Vermont town in the heart of the Green Mountains. The active 25 volunteers serve their community in a variety of ways. When severe flooding from Tropical Storm Irene demolished parts of the town and washed out the roads, leaving the community stranded without access to other towns, the fire department provided food and shelter for the displaced. Firefighters also supplied their own equipment such as ATVs to trek through the woods to other towns for help and supplies.

The small town of Moose Creek in southeastern Ontario, Canada, is comprised of an agricultural community as well as an environmental plant, a tire recovery and shredding facility, and sections of two highways. The volunteer firefighters have dedicated themselves to many community causes, including supporting programs and camps for children, fundraising for causes such as muscular dystrophy, cancer, and ending violence against women, participating in Habitat for Humanity, and establishing a smoke alarm program.

The Hammon Fire Department is an allvolunteer department that protects the town of Hammon, OK, and the surrounding rural area, for a total coverage area of 250 square miles. Approximately 35% of the town’s residents are Native American. With such a large coverage area, the department responds to a wide range of incidents ranging from vehicle accidents, oilfield fires and incidents, wildland fires, structural fires, and natural disasters such as the destructive tornado that hit the town in 2010. The department also belongs to the Roger Mills County Task Force, which assists with incidents in surrounding fire districts.

In addition, the department provides community and school education programs, has a smoke alarm installation program, and is getting ready to implement a community-wide program on fire prevention and preparedness as a new Firewise Community.

Member News The Chester Volunteer Fire Department serves a community of about 410 residents in Tyler and Polk Counties, TX. As they receive no tax money from the counties, the department struggles to operate strictly on donations and less than $2,000 a year from the Tyler County Fire Association. The department only has three full sets of bunker gear, and they are all over 15 years old.

The Fairview Volunteer Fire Department is located in a small town of around 3,500. With barely enough funds to keep up the cost of the building and equipment, there is no money to purchase new gear for the members. The gear they do have dates back to the 1980s and does not provide the adequate protection the firefighters need to safety perform their jobs.

The Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Department serves a 29-square-mile area in Spencer County, IN, that includes a national memorial and state park that are visited by more than 100,000 people annually. In addition, the department provides mutual aid to two neighboring departments. With a low operating budget that only covers insurance, fuel, and maintenance, the department struggles to raise money to pay for equipment and gear. Recent budget cuts in Indiana have made local government assistance to purchase new gear impossible, and the department has had limited success applying for grants to support this need.

The Bolar Volunteer Fire Department is located in Highland County, VA. The rural community includes a large mountainous territory and cattle and sheep farms. With no funding to obtain gear, the firefighters must wear old gear donated by another department that has long outlasted its intended lifespan.

hoods certified to NFPA 1971 at its Ohatchee, Alabama 36000 sq ft manufacturing facility.

Additionally, Ernie Paffumi has been hired as general manager and Bob Morgan as operations manager. Combined, they have more than 50 years of firefighting glove and hood manufacturing experience. Bob Morgan is one of the most experienced and knowledgeable glove designers in North America.

L.N. Curtis & sons is pleased to announce our newest customer service specialist in southern California, Doug Pulliam. Doug has over 15 years of experience in the emergency responder apparatus and equipment market, including time with Federal Signal Corporation, Master Body Works and Elkhart Brass. He is a southern California native and is very familiar with his customer base. We are very pleased that Doug made a decision to join L.N. Curtis & sons. Doug may be reached at 714-576-7051 and dpulliam@lncurtis.com.

Minerva Bunker Gear Cleaners Offers Free Cleaning to Departments Affected by Sandy Bronx, New York - Minerva Bunker Gear Cleaners provided free cleaning of bunker gear to fire departments directly affected by Superstorm Sandy. “To do our part in the rescue efforts and to help our beloved first responders, we are extending our services for free to first responders that are directly affected by Sandy,” says Joe Xiras, owner of Minerva.

Minerva Bunker Gear Cleaners services more than 600 departments nationwide.

INNOTEX® has been growing consistently for the last 12 years and is now among the leading turnout gear manufacturers in North America. In order to continue growing, INNOTEX® is now manufacturing gloves and

PennWell Acquires Leading Public Safety Media Business PennWell Corporation, a diversified global media and information company, announced that it has acquired the Elsevier Public Safety Group

including flagship magazine JEMS (Journal of Emergency Medical Services), JEMs.com, and the EMS Today Conference & Exposition (the JEMS Conference), EMS Insider newsletter, along withFireRescue magazine, FirefighterNation.com, FireEMSblogs.com, Law Officer magazine, LawOfficer.com, and the publishing contract for APCO’s Public Safety Communications magazine from Elsevier, Inc. Financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.

Elsevier Public Safety was founded in 1980 as JEMS Communications, with JEMS magazine published continuously since then as one of the most iconic brands in the emergency medical services (EMS) market. During the last 32 years Elsevier Public Safety expanded to become the only media company serving all four key public safety segments – EMS, Fire/Rescue, Law Enforcement and Communications. The management and staff will join PennWell and remain based in San Diego.

Robert F. Biolchini, president and CEO of PennWell, said, “The Elsevier Public Safety business is a rare and perfect fit with PennWell. We have long pursued JEMS magazine, known as the ‘Conscience of EMS’, and which has earned its reputation as the #1 leading title for EMS due to the quality and integrity of its editorial content in print and online which match PennWell’s high standards for excellence. PennWell is equally enthusiastic about the EMS Today Conference & Expo, the largest and most prestigious training conference and exhibition for EMS, and we envision many expansion opportunities for this event on other continents.”

Biolchini continued, “This acquisition also gives us additional strength in the fire sector with FireRescue magazine and FirefighterNation.com as complementary to PennWell’s Fire Engineering and Fire Apparatus magazines and FDIC (Fire Department Instructors Conference), the world’s largest annual training conference and exhibition for the fire service. With Law Officer magazine we will fill a needed new presence in law enforcement along with our role as publisher of Public Safety Communications magazine. With an outstanding team led

by Jeff Berend, PennWell expects to continue to develop and expand these great products and will be positioned as the only business-tobusiness media company serving all sectors of the public safety industry.

Winter 2012 / 2013 • FEMSA.org

21

CANADIAN GOVERNMENTAL COMMITTEE (CGC)

By Richard Boyes, Chairman

O

nce again, the organizers of the Annual Meeting provided a great seminar that featured interesting speakers, timely topics and of course the ability to see old friends and make new ones at the same time. So on behalf to the CGC: WELL DONE! and thank you to the conference committee for a wonderful conference.

Your hard work is appreciated.

The CGC is very pleased to announce that it has launched the “Ten Important Facts Survey”

in cooperation with the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs. The survey was posted on the CAFC website and all Canadian Fire Departments were asked to complete the survey. The Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs is providing the background work to administer and create the final reports. The goal of the CGC is to provide a “Ten Important Facts” brochure for every provincial fire chiefs association and one that encompasses the whole Canadian Fire Service.

These brochures will assist the provincial fire chiefs associations in their quest of achieving provincial funding for their fire services.

The CGC will present the “Ten Important Facts about the Canadian Fire Service” brochure and information to the CAFC in Ottawa in March of 2013 during the CAFC Government Relations Week. The CGC will also assist the CAFC in their efforts to secure funding for the Canadian Fire Service. The CAFC Government Relations Week is very similar to the GAC “Hill Days” that are so successful.

The CGC is losing one of our most dedicated committee members. Barry Malmsten, executive director of the OAFC retired at the end of November. Barry is a tireless worker and a great supporter of FEMSA and FAMA. He has the drive and determination to get projects such as the first “Ten Important Facts about the Ontario Fire Service” created and established as a document for the OAFC to use in its government lobby process. Barry’s enthusiasm about the fire service is always evident to anybody who speaks with him. The good news is that Barry has agreed to finish the current survey process for the OAFC and the CGC. On behalf of the CGC, I wish Barry all the best in his retirement and offer our many thanks for all of his work and dedication to the CGC. And to all members of FEMSA/FAMA: I wish you a prosperous New Year. •

THANK YOU FROM NATIONAL FALLEN FIREFIGHTERS FOUNDATION

A

s we begin this New Year and I consider all the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation has accomplished, I want to thank you for the role you’ve played in our progress. Your involvement with the NFFF through FEMSA and FAMA has allowed us to reach more fire service members with the critical message that safety and accountability must be a priority within the fire service.

Your input to the development of the Vulnerability Assessment Project provided vital information about how your clients and the fire service industry as a whole could use this cutting-edge technology. As a result, we are poised to roll out this new tool in just a few

8 Winter 2012 / 2013 • FEMSA.org

months enabling departments to identify and mitigate risks, prevent line-of-duty deaths and injuries, and reduce costs to the fire service and their local government.

Be proud. You were part of this innovative program. And this is just the beginning of what we hope to accomplish.

The Foundation will work diligently to increase the number of firefighters taking courses such as Courage to Be Safe®, Leadership Accountability, Culture and Knowledge (LACK), Taking Care of Our Own® and signing the International Seat Belt Pledge, Buckle Up! So Everyone Goes Home.

We will expand existing programs and develop new ones for the survivors of the fallen as they rebuild their lives. As you may know, in June of 2012 we opened the Hal Bruno Camp for Children of Fallen Firefighters. The weekend

bereavement camp for 7 to 17 year-olds was an enormous success. It also illustrated how much more the Foundation can do for children, extended family members, coworkers and friends of those who died in the line of duty. We’re looking forward to another successful camp this year.

As we look to the future, the Foundation faces new challenges. Your continued partnership is invaluable as our vision progresses.

On behalf of all those we serve, thank you for your commitment to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. Best wishes for a safe and happy New Year.

Ron Siarnicki Executive Director National Fallen Firefighters Foundation •

2013 FIRE SERVICE EVENTS SHOW/MEETING Utah Fire Chiefs Symposium Piedmont Fire Expo FDSOA Apparatus Maintenance Symposium Fire Rescue East LSU Fire & Emergency Training Equipment Show Kentucky Assoc. of Fire Chiefs Conf.

Southwest Fire Rescue Firehouse World ARFFWG Chiefs and Leadership Conference VA Fire Chiefs Mid Atlantic Expo & Symposium Green River FF Assoc. Officer School Long Island Mega Show Pittsburgh Fire, Rescue & EMS Expo Smoky Mountain Training Conference EMS Today Black Chief Officers Committee Annual Conf.

FAMA Spring Meeting Virginia FireRescue & EMS Expo Wildland Urban Interface Conference Georgia Fire Equipment Show Louisiana Fire Chiefs Association Conference Saskatchewan Fire Chiefs Metro Chiefs Oklahoma Fire Chief’s Conference Midwest Fire Rescue Expo Northwest Fire Conference & Trade Show Georgia Fire Chiefs Training Session FDIC Rhode Island EMS Expo FAMA Technical Committee Meeting Assoc. County Commisioners of GA Fire Rescue Med Ontario Fire Chiefs ARFFWG Section 5 Seminar CFSI Fire Service Seminars & Dinner FAMA/FEMSA GAC Hill Day Oregon Fire Chiefs Association Conf.

IAFC Eastern Division Convention PA Fire Expo Alabama League of Municipalities Conference Quebec Fire Chiefs Convention AAAE Annual Conference and Exposition FCABC Annual Conference & Fire Expo Alberta Fire Chiefs Conference and Tradeshow Mississippi Fire Chiefs/Firefighters Conference XTREME Industrial Fire & Hazard Training Oklahoma State Firefighters Assoc. Convention International Hazardous Materials Response KY State Fire School and Homeland Sec. Conf.

Manitoba Association of Fire Chiefs FDIC - Atlantic NFPA Conference & Expo

DATE 1/11-1/12 1/18-1/19 1/20-1/23 1/23-1/26 (Exhs: 1/25-1/26) 1/25-1/26 1/26-1/27 2/9-2/14 2/17-2/21 (Exhs: 2/20-2/21) 2/19-2/22 2/21-2/24 2/22-2/24 2/23-2/24 2/23-2/24 3/1-3/3 3/5-3/9 3/7-3/9 3/16-3/19 3/16-3/17 3/19-3/21 3/20 4/4-4/6 4/4-4/6 4/6-4/10 4/8-4/10 4/11 - One day 4/11-4/14 4/14-4/17 4/22-4/27 (Exhs: 4/25-4/27) 4/23 4/25 (8-9:30am) 4/26-4/28 5/3-5/7 5/4-5/8 5/6-5/9 5/8-5/9 5/8-5/9 5/8-5/9 5/10-5/11 5/17-5/19 5/18-5/21 (Exhs: 4/19-4/20) 5/18-5/21 5/19-5/22 5/25-5/29 5/26-5/29 5/30-6/2 6/2-6/6 6/5-6/8 6/6-6/9 6/6-6/9 6/6-6/8 6/7-6/9 6/10-612

LOCATION St. George, UT Winston Salem, NC Lake Buena Vista, FL Daytona Beach, FL Baton Rouge, LA Bowling Green, KY Corpus Christi, TX San Diego, CA Newport Beach, CA Virginia Beach, VA Lexington, KY Uniondale, NY Monroeville, PA Sevierville, TN Washington, DC Palm Beach Gardens, FL Rancho Mirage, CA Richmond, VA Reno, NV Perry, GA Baton Rouge, LA Yorkton, SK Phoenix, AZ Norman, OK Novi, MI Peace River, AB Savannah, GA Indianapolis, IN Warwick, RI Indianapolis, IN Savannah, GA Las Vegas, NV Toronto, ON Dallas, TX Washington, DC Washington, DC Redmond, OR Annapolis, MD Harrisburg, PA Montgomery, AL La Malbaie, QC Reno, NV Penticton, BC Red Deer, AB Natchez, MS Beaumont, TX Tulsa, OK Baltimore, MD Lexington, KY Virden, MB Wolfville, NS Chicago, IL

FOR A COMPLETE LISTING OF 2013 FIRE SERVICE EVENTS, CLICK CALENDAR ON THE FEMSA WEBSITE HOME PAGE. 23 Winter 2012 / 2013 • FEMSA.org

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24 Winter 2012 / 2013 • FEMSA.org

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