fama flyer summer 2006

MESSAGE FROM THE VICE PRESIDENT — Phil Turner

It is hard to believe that over a half of my year as Vice President of

FAMA is gone and we are moving so rapidly to the year’s end and the challenges of my year as President. A considerable amount of this year has been devoted to addressing some very progressive, new initia-tives. President Dean has, to my rec-ollection, created an unprecedented number of significant initiatives for the year. It is inevitable that my year

as President will be largely occupied with developing resources, maintaining priorities and providing support for those proceeding with these current projects.

One topic deservedly receiving greater attention is safety: safety of the firefighters and all responders, safety of the apparatus they utilize and safety as a cornerstone of FAMA’s image and role in the industry. The Safety Committee’s role has expanded and it is being reorganized under the direction of its new chairman, Rick Fix. Immediate activities include closely monitoring and participating in the NFPA 1901 Safety Task Group and its discussion of issues with wide ranging impact on our industry. They will be an active conduit for information flow from the NFPA to FAMA and FAMA to NFPA. The Safety Committee will work with other FAMA committees to develop more statistics on safety records, evaluate cost effectiveness and safety benefits of proposed changes and promote FAMA’s role in improving safety in the industry.

Speaking of taking on expanded roles, Scott Weishaar’s newly formed Marketing “Super” Committee looks to encompass the current Trade Show, PR, Internet and new Advertising committee and coordinate their efforts to promote FAMA to our members and prospective members, the fire and emergency services industry, gov-ernmental entities and the end users and general public. Scott’s first Marketing Committee meeting was in Indianapolis in April and they have many initiatives to present to us at our Fall 2006 meeting.

As you are aware, our joint meeting with FEMSA will feature the largest presence for our industry before the U.S. Congress during Hill Day, October 5, 2006. The FAMA/FEMSA GAC has done a ter-rific job organizing our efforts to exert more influence if not control over the governmental affairs that affect our destiny. We will have congressional representatives coming to speak to our members, but the real emphasis will be having approximately 150 of our members with prearranged appointments with their representatives and sena-tors. We will be thanking them for their continued support for full

funding of the Fire Act and SAFER grants and making them more aware of FAMA/FEMSA and our role in safety, security and prepared-ness. As you read this you will still have the opportunity to sign up to attend, so contact Bob Grimaldi at Rome Travel so he can work to secure your room at our group rate.

Finally, I want to say what an honor it is to work with the dedi-cated members of the Board of Directors and the Committee Chairs and members. They make FAMA the great organization that pro-vides so many benefits for us all. I especially want to thank Karen Burnham, our Executive Assistant, for she is not only the glue that holds it all together but also applies the final coat of paint and touch ups that maintain the professional image of FAMA. It is a pleasure to work with her and our professional meeting planner, Bob Grimaldi. I hope to see you all in Arlington, VA October 4–7, 2006! ■

— WELCOME NEW MEMBERS —

Anchor-Richey Emergency Vehicle Services, Inc.Bill McCormick, Vice President 241 Advent Church Road Taylorsville, NC 28681 Tel: (828) 495-8145 Fax: (828) 495-3025 Email: [email protected] Web Site: www.anchor-richeyevs.comA manufacturer of Fire Apparatus and Rescue Vehicles

C.E.T. Fire Pumps Manufacturing, Ltd.Stephan Thibault, President 75 Hector Street, PO Box 90 Pierreville, Quebec J0G1J0 Canada Tel: (450) 568-2719 Fax: (450) 568-2613 Email: [email protected] Web Site: www.fire-pump.comA manufacturer of Fire Apparatus (brush trucks), pumps, ladders, and skid units

Southern Fire Equipment, LLCLance Chancellor, Vice-President 58 Robert Walters Road Laurel, MS 39443 Tel: (601) 518-3734 Fax: (601) 422-0742 Email: [email protected] Web Site: www.thewatermaster.comA manufacture of Fire Apparatus

A P u b l i c a t i o n o f

F IRE APPARATUS MANUFACTURERS’ ASSOCIAT ION, INC.

Third Quarter 2006

2 Fama Flyer • Third Quarter 2006

MEETINGS: REPORTS AND PREVIEWS

Spring Technical Committee

The FAMA Technical Committee met on April 28th in Indianapolis, Indiana in conjunction with the FDIC. Sixty-one (61) member companies were represented by approximately 200tech-nically-oriented repre-sentatives.

In his welcoming remarks, President Tim Dean acknowledged with appreciation:

• Rollie Myers who was recently inducted as an Honorary Member of FAMA;

• Dan Juntune of Waterous Company, who was retiring from the industry

• Jim Juneau for his Annex D presentation to FDIC attendees• Members of the Governmental Affairs Committee for their

superior efforts over the last year Mr. Jack Robertson of Underwriters Laboratories of Canada,

Regulatory Services, provided a presentation to assist members in their understanding of ULC standards, and specifically to answer questions regarding newly adopted CAN/ULC-S515-04, Standard for Automobile Fire Fighting Apparatus. Mr. Tom Hillenbrand and Mr. Jim Johannessen from Underwriters Laboratories accompanied Mr. Robertson and offered their assistance during Q&A.

Subcommittees were charged by the Committee Co-Chairs, broke out into their groups, and then regrouped as a full committee for reports and actions.

A full report of the meeting is contained in the meeting min-utes that were emailed to all members. A copy of Mr. Robertson’s presentation also appears on the Technical Committee page of the FAMA web site (www.fama.org).

Fall Technical Committee FAMA acknowledges with thanks FireRescue magazine,

FireRescue 1.com and FireRescue Magazine Conference & Exposition, sponsors of the 2006 fall FAMA Technical Committee meeting.

The Technical Committee will next meet on Saturday, September 16th, 7:00 am, at the Dallas (TX) Convention Center in conjunction with Fire-Rescue International. The official notice of meeting, regis-tration form and agenda has been emailed to all member represen-tatives. Deadline to register for this meeting is September 1st, and may be done by emailing [email protected] with your name, company name, and your choice of subcommittee for the breakout session.

Fall General Membership MeetingThe FAMA fall general membership meeting will be held October

4–7 at the Marriott Crystal City, 1999 Jefferson Davis Highway, Arlington, Virginia. Registrations have been open since mid-June, and although they continue to be accepted, our meeting planners cannot guarantee lodging at the host hotel or at our group rate. If you have not registered and wish to do so, please contact Bob Grimaldi at [email protected] or Tel: (315) 337-0560. As is customary in the fall, our meetings will be held in conjunction with the annual meeting of the Fire and Emergency Manufacturers and Services Association (FEMSA), with several joint events planned. The following is the updated schedule of meetings and activities:

OCT. 4 WED. Arrival

12:30 PM to 5:00 PM FEMSA Board Meeting (Lunch at noon)

6:00 PM to 8:00 PM FEMSA/FAMA Welcome Reception — Members & Guests

OCT. 5 THUR.

7:00 AM FEMSA / FAMA “Hill Day” Breakfast — All Members & Guests

8:00 AM FEMSA/FAMA “Hill Day” Program — All Members & Guests

11:30 AM – 5:00 PM Scheduled Appointments on Capitol Hill

6:00 PM – 8:00 PM National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Reception co-sponsored by FEMSA/FAMA — All Members & Guests

Library of Congress Penthouse

OCT. 6 FRI.

6:30 AM FAMA Board Breakfast

7:00 AM to 12:00 PM FAMA Board Meeting / Reports by Committee Chairs

8:00 AM to 12:00 PM FAMA Committee Meetings as scheduled by Committee Chairs

7:15 AM FEMSA Breakfast

8:00 AM to 11:45 AM FEMSA Membership Meeting

9:00 AM FEMSA/FAMA Spouses Program

11:30 AM to 1:00 PM FEMSA/FAMA Executive Committees Lunch

12:00 PM FEMSA/FAMA Lunch — All Members & Guests

1:15 PM to 2:45 PM FEMSA Membership Meeting, Caucus Breakouts

3:00 PM to 5:00 PM FEMSA/FAMA Joint Meeting

6:00 PM FEMSA/FAMA Cocktail Party

7:00 PM FEMSA/FAMA Dinner

OCT. 7 SAT.

7.15 AM FEMSA and FAMA Member Breakfasts

8:00 AM to 12:00 PM FAMA Membership Meeting

8:00 AM to 12:00 PM FEMSA Membership Meeting

Afternoon & Evening Open

Evening (Optional) NFFF Candlelight Service, Emmitsburg, MD

OCT. 8 SUN. Departure

10:00 AM (Optional) NFFF Memorial Service, Emmitsburg, MD

Jim Johannessen, Jack Robertson and Tom Hillenbrand

FAMA President Tim Dean presents Honorary Member plaque to Rollie Myers

Fama Flyer • Third Quarter 20063

MEETINGS: REPORTS AND PREVIEWS

Fall Meeting cont’d

With appreciation, we acknowledge the generosity of sponsors for FEMSA/FAMA joint events, including:

• Fire Chief Publications — Hill Day Breakfast — Thursday, October 5th

• Fire Engineering/FDIC — Hospitality Suite — Wed., October 4th through Sat., October 7th

We look forward to seeing you in Arlington this

October for a very full and exciting meeting. ■

THANK YOU, FDIC!Eric Schlett and Robert Halton, on behalf

of FDIC and Fire Engineering, presented a most generous check to FAMA President Tim Dean, Governmental Affairs Chair Bob Kreps and Board Secretary John Sztykiel. This contribution will assist the association’s governmental affairs and public relations efforts to explore opportunities to advance additional federal funding for fire appara-tus manufacturing.

The presentation was made on April 29th at the FDIC in Indianapolis, Indiana, and reinforces FDIC’s strong support of FAMA and its mission ... “to enhance the quality of the fire apparatus industry and emergency service community through the manufacture and sale of safe, efficient fire apparatus and equipment.” ■

Col. 2 (top to bottom)United Plastic Fabricating; American

LaFrance; Toyne Fire Apparatus; Rescue; S & S Fire Apparatus

Col. 3 (top to bottom) Performance Advantage Co.; Fire Research

Corp.; PowerArc; Les Wainman staffing the FAMA booth with sponsor plaque from FDIC;

... and the beautiful FDIC staffers

FAMA MEMBERS AT FDIC


A lot has transpired since our last newsletter, and the mem-bers of your GAC are busier than ever. We have expanded our circle of influence this spring and summer and have become more involved with issues that affect us all.

This year’s appropriation process with the Fire Act grant pro-gram was a highlight for the Committee. While we were a little late getting involved with the process, we were able to be heav-ily involved at a key point due to some “home” connections we have begun to establish. The end result was we were able to help move the process through at the Senate level. While it was a collaborative effort amongst the many different organizations we are working with, the important part is that for the first time we were an important contributing member of the Fire Caucus group. This result was due to the efforts that you, the member-ship, have put into building the local relationships through your “Home Day” programs.

Speaking of “Home Day,” I hope each of you has looked at the great “Home Day” site on the FEMSA web page. This was a tremendous effort for our first year, and it is documented well thanks to the efforts of committee members who worked so diligently on the program. Our organization’s ability to reach out at home has made us a very valuable asset to our alliance partners who work in Washington DC. Remember, Every Day is Home Day!

We have two great programs that we are working on for the rest of this year. The first is our 3rd annual “Hill Day” in conjunc-tion with our annual meeting in October. Make your appoint-ments (NOW!) to meet with staffers and your members of congress. We have a fun day of activities scheduled, culminating with a wonderful evening reception at the Library of Congress in conjunction with the NFFF.

Our second project is a “living document” outlining success stories, facts, anecdotes, etc. on the value of the Fire Act Grant program. This project we are doing in collaboration with our alliance members may be the most important project we have undertaken to date. It is designed to be a document that can be presented when each of us visit with a Member or staff members that will give them factual information on the suc-cess of the Fire Act Grant program and its importance to our country. This document will have links to various websites and information that will be continually updated so that you or any staff member of congress can get information about the Fire Act grant. Our goal is to have this ready for you on “Hill Day,” and we are planning to present it to Congressman Weldon at the morning program. More to come as this is developed.

As always, if you have any questions about GAC activities or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact your GAC committee members. We all look forward to seeing you in October! ■

Your, GACBob Kreps, Co-Chair [email protected] Steve Lawrence, Co-Chair [email protected] Tim Bendle [email protected] Doug Bonney [email protected] Ken Creese [email protected] George Goros [email protected]

John Granby [email protected] Bill Latta [email protected] Mike Natchipolsky [email protected] Tony Parrino [email protected] Gabriel Steinbach [email protected] John Sztykiel [email protected]

FAMA 2006 SCHOLARSHIP AWARD

Lynnfield, MA, July 28, 2006 — The Fire Apparatus Manufacturers’ Association (FAMA) officially announced today the recipient of this year’s scholarship award. “On behalf of the FAMA membership, I am honored to report that Jon Ryan Hamill has been selected as the 2006 FAMA Scholarship recipient,” stated Peter Darley, Chairman of the Scholarship Subcommittee. Jon will be starting up as a senior this fall at Oklahoma State University, and is pursuing a bachelors of science degree in Fire Protection and Safety Engineering Technology.

Jon’s goal is to achieve a Master’s Degree in Fire Protection Engineering. Besides Jon’s classes, he works two part-time jobs, serves on two fire student chapter organizations and is currently president of the American Society of Safety Engineers for OSU. Jon also finds time to serve as a volunteer fire fighter for the Ripley Fire Department.

Chairman Darley, and the FAMA Scholarship Subcommittee, recommended Jon for his passion for the fire service and for his ambition and desire to pursue an education that should allow him to help integrate technical aspects of fire protection engineering with today’s fire service. “We believe that Jon has the potential to make significant contributions to the Fire Service throughout his education and career. The FAMA membership is proud to provide this scholarship to help Jon pursue his goals.”

The missions of the FAMA Scholarship Subcommittee are to support and recognize fire protection engineering universi-ties, and to cooperate with other FAMA committees on various research projects. The Subcommittee’s goals are to reinforce the Association’s relationship with noted universities, thus supporting worthy fire protection students, and to provide the FAMA mem-bership with supplementary research data when required. ■

GAC UPDATE — By Steve Lawrence, Co-Chair


A grateful Nation will honor its fallen fire heroes at the 25th Annual National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service on Sunday, October 8, 2006. The public ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. at the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial, the official national monument to all fallen firefighters, located in Emmitsburg, Maryland.

Thousands will attend the national tribute remembering America’s bravest who died in the line of duty in 2005 and several who died in previous years. The national service will celebrate the lives of these dedicated men and women.

The ceremony, rich in fire service traditions, will begin with an Honor Guard and bagpipe band processional. Families will receive American flags flown over the Nation’s Capitol and the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial. The tribute will conclude with the unveiling of the memorial plaques listing the names of the 2005 fallen heroes and those who died in previous years.

Families and coworkers of the fallen firefighters will receive priority seating for the Memorial Service, as will the survivors of firefighters honored in earlier years.

We will broadcast the service live via satellite. Videotapes and DVDs of the service will be available after the Memorial Weekend. ■

Edward H. McCormack, Jr. a legend in the nation’s fire services passed away on Tuesday, April 11 after a short illness. He was 67 years young.

McCormack had over 40 years in fire training and education. He began his career at age 15 as a volunteer firefighter with the Hopkinton, MA Fire Department. In 1958 he became Chief of Fire & Security at Cushing Hospital in Framingham, MA, the young-est chief, at that time, in the

Commonwealth. While at the hospital he instituted an emer-gency evacuation and disaster preparedness program, training all hospital staff.

During his tenure at the hospital, he was approached by the Fire Chiefs in Central Massachusetts to implement a train-ing program for their firefighters. It was during this time that the Central Massachusetts Fire Training Academy was created. McCormack along with other instructors, traveled all across the state training firefighters. He led the charge to pass legislation, creating the Massachusetts Fire Training Academy, under the Department of Education. In 1966 he became the first Director and Chief of Fire Training for the Commonwealth.

In 1973 he was elected as the Secretary/Treasurer of the International Society of Fire Service Instructors (ISFSI). In 1977 he retired from the Commonwealth after 23 years of service to work full-time with ISFSI, ultimately becoming the Executive Director and then CEO.

In 1978 the Insurance Services Offices (ISO), were then con-ducting the annual FDIC in Memphis, TN. ISFSI held its annual conference and meeting two days prior to FDIC because many ISFSI members were speakers at FDIC. ISO decided they no lon-ger wanted to continue running FDIC. McCormack successfully came up with a plan and in 1979 ISFSI took over the running of FDIC. Outgrowing the Memphis facility, they moved to Cincinnati

in 1984 where they ultimately out grew the city and moved to Indianapolis in 1995, which is the home of FDIC today.

McCormack lead the way with the ISFSI Board to create, in 1989, the Alliance for Fire and Emergency Management, under the umbrella of ISFSI. The Alliance was made up of nine smaller associations, the first being the Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA) created and incorporated in 1989.

During his tenure with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, McCormack learned very

quickly about politics. That led him into the national politi-cal arena where he soon became one of the most respected fire service advocates in the country. In 1974 he was one of the writers of the legislation PL93-498 that created the United States Fire Administration and National Fire Academy.

McCormack left ISFSI in 1996, started his own consult-ing business and worked with companies and associations such as International Center for Emergency Response Training Academy, FL; Federal Micro Systems, MD; ProSafe Fire Training Systems, Canada; and Tutman Production Corp, MD, just to name a few.

He was a certified Fire Instructor and Teacher Trainer in Massachusetts and a graduate of the Massachusetts State Police Academy, Municipal Police Program.

McCormack’s knowledge of emergency management issues and his ability to harness resources

and support, made him a strong advocate for our public defenders. Described as a visionary and a firefighter’s firefighter, he was one of the nation’s leading experts in the area of training and education for the fire and emergency services.

If you look at the history of our country, each century that passes has left a handful of true visionaries who through their tireless dedication, make dramatic changes and improve-ments that impact the lives of people for decades to come. The American Fire Service was extremely fortunate to benefit from one of these icons. “Big Ed” McCormack will be remembered as a true father of the fire service who believed there was no substitute for education, and made sure everyone had an equal opportunity to succeed. ■

DEDICATION: “A MAN WITH A VISION”

NATIONAL FALLEN FIRE FIGHTERS MEMORIAL WEEKEND

Edward H. McCormack, Jr.


Members of the fire service industry discussed funding pri-orities with their Congressional representatives during the first annual “Home Day” events that began the week of April 17th, and continue on through the summer months. Many activities took place at manufacturers’ facilities where elected officials and their staffs got a first-hand opportunity to see the latest firefight-ing and emergency services products, and meet the people who build them.

“Home Day” was orchestrated by the joint Governmental Affairs Committee (GAC) of the Fire Apparatus Manufacturers’ Association (FAMA) and the Fire and Emergency Manufacturers and Services Association (FEMSA). It was co-partnered by the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI), International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), and the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) to present a unified voice in presenting the top priorities of the fire service in 2006. The events coincided with Congressional recesses when most senators and representatives return to their home states to meet with constituents.

Full funding for the Fire Grants Program was one of the most critical priorities discussed. Of immediate concern is the 2007 fis-cal year budget where the President has proposed funding only $293 million of the $1 billion authorized. The Fire Grants Program is considered especially valuable to the fire service because it provides funds directly to departments based on need and the most effective use of grant funds. Grant requests are judged by peers and experts in the fire service, and are designed to provide basic equipment such as personal protective clothing, SCBA, and replacements for old and out-of-date apparatus.

Other critical priorities include continued support of the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Program that helps fire departments recruit and retain personnel in order to provide 24/7 coverage. The need for separate funding of the U.S. Fire Administration was also emphasized as being a more effective approach than including those funds within the Department of Homeland Security budget.

To date, “Home Day” events have been held in the states of Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Wisconsin and Wyoming, with additional events planned through the fall. We are pleased and proud to recognize the member companies of FAMA and FEMSA who have sponsored “Home Day” in their states. Make “every day Home Day” by estab-lishing a relationship and keeping in touch with your legislators and staffers on a periodic basis. Every member should know his/her rep-resentatives’ Legislative Directors and Chiefs of Staff on a first-name basis, and they should know you. Accept that challenge! ■

FLORIDAClass 1Classic FireE-ONEMakoPro Poly of AmericaUnited Plastic Fabricating

Ocala’s fire industry joined forces trying on April 19th to persuade lawmakers to increase federal funding that enables fire depart-ments nationwide to buy new fire trucks and other equipment. A total of six Marion County fire and emergency industry companies

met with lawmakers’ representatives at E-One’s headquarters with a clear message.

“We want to make our federal, state and local officials aware of what we do and bring to the county, and make sure legisla-tors are aware of the financial need of the fire services,” stated Tim Dean, President of Pro Poly of America. Manufacturers are concerned about President Bush’s proposed fiscal 2007 budget, which would reduce funding of the FIRE Act and SAFER grant pro-grams that provide federal money to fire and emergency services programs for new equipment and training.

“The downward trend in funding over recent years has raised concern,” said Bob Kreps, President of Hale/Class 1. “More than 50 percent of fire trucks in the United States are more than 15 years old.”

Manufacturers also pointed out their contribution to the Marion County economy. “With more than 1,700 people employed in the industry — most at E-One — fire equipment provides a major eco-nomic impact,” Dean said. “It translates to an economic stimulus of close to $200 million right here in Marion County,” he said.

The event featured displays from the companies involved and a tour of the E-One facilities that intrigued lawmakers’ staff members.

GEORGIASouthern Mills

Southern Mills had the pleasure of hosting U.S. Representative Lynn Westmoreland (GA-8th district) at our yarn mill in Senoia, GA on Friday, August 4th. The afternoon program consisted of a

THE SUCCESSES OF “HOME DAY”

Top: Marc Gustafson, E-One with Shawna Williams and Judy Moore of Congressman Cliff Stearns’ OfficeAbove: Gary Ewers, Class 1/Hale with Mary Chiles of Senator Bill Nelson’s Office, and Adele Griffin of Senator Mel Martinez’s Office


THE SUCCESSES OF “HOME DAY”

comprehensive presentation of the flame resistant fabrics that we make and the protective clothing that is manufactured from them. We discussed the importance of our industrial and military market segments and put special emphasis on the Emergency Response sector. We asked the congressman for his full support in funding the SAFER and FIRE Act programs and urged him to become a member of the Congressional Fire Services caucus.

Congressman Westmoreland took a few minutes to tell us about his work in Washington including his views on Homeland Security issues like border control, illegal immigration, and the war on terrorism.

The meeting concluded with a full tour of our yarn manufac-turing facility which houses our completely vertical operation that converts bales of Nomex®, Kevlar®, Pbi, Pbo and other flame resis-tant fibers into spun yarns which are then transferred to our weav-ing in Zebulon, GA. All of Southern Mills’ manufacturing facilities are in Georgia’s 8th district, and we hope that the congressman will find time to visit our other plants later this Fall.

ILLINOISW.S. Darley & Co.Air One Equipment, Inc. Alexis Fire Equipment Co. C.E. Niehoff & Company Federal Signal CorporationFire Chief PublicationsGFE DivisionGroves IncorporatedHomeland Protection ProfessionalParatech IncorporatedTowers Fire Apparatus Co.

“Take it Home” By Janet WilmothJune 5th, 2006

It couldn’t be more obvious. Invite someone to your home for lunch and your relationship changes — usually for the better.

This past week the Illinois Fire Service Association and members of the Fire Apparatus Manufacturers’ Association and the Fire

Equipment Manufacturers & Services Association invited Illinois state and federal legislators to lunch for Illinois Fire Services Home Day.

Home Day was held in two Illinois locations: one to coincide with the opening of the Illinois Fire Services Institute’s college in Champaign, and another in conjunction with the bimonthly Illinois Metropolitan Fire Chiefs meeting outside Chicago.

The event is an outgrowth of the Congressional Fire Services Institute’s annual Hill Day in Washington, D.C., which encourages fire chiefs to meet with their Congressional leaders prior to the annual CFSI dinner. The goal of Home Day is to help legislators and their staffers develop a better understanding of the local emer-gency services and create better working relationships.

At the Chicago luncheon, there were more than 110 chiefs, FEMSA and FAMA members, and legislative representatives. It was efficient, focused and over in two hours.

Cindy Williams from Federal Signal’s corporate office in Illinois introduced U.S. Rep. Judy Biggert (R-Ill.). A member of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, Biggert explained that with 340 members, the bipartisan caucus is the largest on the Hill and “brings together members of Congress that have a common interest — the firefighters and the mission of the firefighters and safety.” The cau-cus meets bimonthly to discuss what legislation to propose.

Biggert offered a bit of insight on Congressional leaders. “See if you can talk to them in their home office. Don’t be disappointed if you talk to the staff because they are the ones that relay to the Congressmen and -women,” she said. “If you do meet in the dis-trict, they will have more time with you.”

During the luncheon, Illinois Fire Chiefs Association Executive Director Bob Buhs gave a presentation on the state’s fire service legislative efforts and the current status of the local FIRE Grant Program funding.

Paul Darley, president of W.S. Darley in Melrose Park, Ill., was the spark in getting the partnerships for Illinois’ Home Day off the ground and pulled together in less than eight weeks. The feedback from all participants was positive, and there’s much anticipation for future Home Days.

The blueprint for planning a Home Day event is available to any fire department or FAMA and FEMSA members. Everything from sample invitations for legislators to an outline of key talking points is available at the FEMSA Web site. There’s no excuse for you not to educate your legislators and staffers on the needs of the first responders.

One last note: While Buhs was speaking, I noticed that each of his slides included, in the lower left corner, the small word “team-work.” It was a perfect reminder of what can happen when people work together to form one voice for the fire and emergency ser-

Robert Self (Quality Systems Mgr), Denise Statham (Director of End Use Marketing), Tim Peterson (Production Planning Mgr), Jean Harris (VP of Human Resources), Lynn Camp (Plant Mgr – Yarn Plant), Congressman Lynn Westmoreland, Joe Glovier (VP of Mfg), Kathy Harmon (Human Resources Mgr – Yarn/NW Plants)

Illinois Fire Service Home Day banquet hosted by W.S. Darley.


vices in Illinois. The message came home. Visit www.femsa.org for information on how to put together a Home Day in your state.

Paratech Home Day ReportParatech Incorporated celebrated Home Day on April 20, 2006.

Attending guests included Congressman Jerry Weller (R) 11th District, Illinois, Debbie Minitullo, Congressman Weller’s Illinois Chief of Staff, Chief Officers of the Frankfort and Tinley Park Fire Departments, and all Paratech employees and staff.

Congressman Weller is the first recipient of FEMSA’s Fire Service Excellence Award, a member of the Fire Service Caucus on Capitol Hill and a Congressional leader for improving the U.S. Fire Service.

The highlight of our Home Day event was Congressman Weller’s speech to Paratech employees and fire service officers. Mr. Weller pledged to support the fire service grant programs and push for increased funding. He also pledged to support a federally funded FEMA task force for Illinois (Chicago area) and the establishment of a State of Illinois US&R task force network!

Following Mr. Weller’s comments, he graciously took ques-tions from the audience. Weller is a member of the House Ways & Means Committee and serves on the International Relations Committee as well. Questions from Paratech’s employees and staff focused on personal tax policies and the expansion of business opportunities with the emergency service community. We were also able to discuss export initiatives.

Overall, the Home Day event was a complete success. All of us applaud FEMSA’s Steve Lawrence and his tireless efforts promoting the Home Day concept.

MASSACHUSETTS United Plastic Fabricating FAMAFEMSA

On Wednesday, April 19th, representatives from United Plastic Fabricating (MA) and Karen Burnham from the offices of FAMA and FEMSA, hosted Home Day at the UPF manufacturing facilities in North Andover, Massachusetts. Guests of honor included Gary Barrett, District Director, and Helen Rush-Lloyd, Constituent Representative, from the offices of Congressman John Tierney (D-6th).

Deputy Chief Bill Martineau of the North Andover (MA) Fire Department, and Chief Paul Romano with Firefighters Kelly McGonnell and Peter McGonnell of the Lynnfield (MA) Fire Department, attended and displayed recent apparatus purchased through FIRE Act grant funding. They each had an opportunity to point out the safety features of their rigs and explain the impor-tance the FIRE Act program has been to their departments and their communities.

UPF representatives led guests on a tour of the company’s man-ufacturing facilities. A brief power point presentation on the his-tory of UPF, its employees, and its facilities in Florida and Wisconsin was provided by Bill Bruns, Vice President of Sales & Marketing. George Goros, Vice President of Manufacturing Operations, high-lighted the key messages of the FAMA/FEMSA GAC — full fund-ing of the FIRE Act Grant program, full funding of the U.S. Fire Administration, and support of the SAFER grant program. During the luncheon, representatives had an opportunity to network and discuss the importance of the Fire Service Caucus, and support of David Paulison’s nomination as the Under Secretary of FEMA. A plaque in appreciation of Congressman Tierney’s support was presented on behalf of UPF and the FAMA/FEMSA GAC.

UPF, FAMA and FEMSA will continue to build on their rela-tionships with Congressman Tierney and his staffers, as well as Senators Kennedy and Kerry from the State of Massachusetts. Appointments are presently being sought to meet with these legislators on Thursday, October 5th — the annual FAMA/FEMSA Hill Day event, this year in conjunction with the FAMA and FEMSA fall/annual meetings — in Washington, DC.

Top: Appreciation plaque for Congressman John Tierney accepted by Gary Barrett, District Director, and Helen Rush-Lloyd, Constituent Representative, by George Goros of United Plastic Fabricating, and Karen Burnham on behalf of FAMA and FEMSA.Second: Deputy Chief Bill Martineau (No. Andover) Fire Department pointing out the value the FIRE Act grant program has been to his department.Third: Chief Paul Romano (Lynnfield) describing to Gary Barrett and Helen Rush-Lloyd of Congressman John Tierney’s office the many safety features of Engine 2 compared to older trucks in his fleet, purchased with FIRE grant funds.Bottom: l-r: George Goros (UPF VP/Manufacturing Operations), Firefighter Kelly McGonnel (LFD), Jane Howe (UPF VP/Human Resources), Firefighter Peter McGonnel (LFD), Gary Barrett (District Director, Cong. John Tierney), Chief Paul Romano (LFD), Helen Rush-Lloyd (Constituent Representative, Cong. John Tierney), Mike Ashley (UPF VP Engineering), Brian Curley (UPF VP/Finance), Rob McGinty (UPF Plant Manager), Karen Pramas (UPF Marketing Specialist), Bill Bruns (UPF VP Sales & Marketing) [photo credit: Karen Burnham, FAMA/FEMSA]

THE SUCCESSES OF “HOME DAY” — continued

Top: left to right: Jim Burge: Paratech’s Vice President Sales and Marketing; Congressman Jerry Weller (R) 11th Dist. Illinois: Chief James Grady, Frankfort Fire Protection District, Illinois; Peter NielsenAbove: Congressman Weller addressing Paratech employees, staff and Home Day guests at Paratech’s manufacturing facility in Frankfort, Illinois


NEW YORKFire Research Corp.Fire News

On April 18, 2006, from 8:30 – 11:30 AM Fire Research Corporation hosted our Home Day event starting off with a breakfast recep-tion. During the morning reception, Jack McLoughlin(President -FRC) gave the welcome speech and an overview to all the guests on the background of FRC ( size, number of employees, and how FRC supports the First Responders with the products we make & design) and show the importance of FRC within the fire and emergency business. After introducing the FRC staff, we invited everyone on a plant tour of our facilities to give them a first hand look at the products and support that FRC provides the fire & emergency industry.

Representatives from many of the surrounding cities Fire & Police departments were in attendance along with: Congressman Tim Bishop U.S. Congress, Joan B. Johnson Town Clerk — Town of Islip, Senator John J. Flanagan New York State Senate

The response and input from everyone in attendance was very positive towards the service and products that FRC provides for the Fire & Emergency Service. We also learned a great deal about the importance of having our government representation understand what FRC does to support our First Responders and that we need to work together to continue to provide this support in the future.

FRC is already planning for next years Home Day event!

Top: Some of those who attended our Home Day with members of the Fire Research TeamAbove: l-r: Chief Gaglardi, Chief Kriklava, Congressman Tim Bishop, Chief Woods, Rick Fix (Nat’l Sales Mgr., Fire Research), and Jack McLoughlin (President, Fire Research). All three Fire Chiefs are from the Hauppauge, NY Fire Department.



PENNSYLVANIAStreamlight, IncEagleville, PA, July 24 — Congressman Curt Weldon, represent-

ing Pennsylvania’s 7th Congressional District, last week toured the Eagleville, PA headquarters of Streamlight, Inc., a leading manu-facturer of high-performance lighting equipment for professional applications, including firefighting, EMS and military.

Representative Weldon met with employees and officials of Streamlight to discuss issues facing local businesses. The Congressman, a long-time advocate for the nation’s first respond-ers and Vice-Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, also discussed the flashlight needs of firefighters, emergency med-ical services workers and military personnel, and saw demonstra-tions of the company’s extensive line of products for emergency and military professionals.

Weldon, a former volunteer Fire Chief in Marcus Hook, PA, formed the Congressional Fire and Emergency Services Caucus in 1987, the largest caucus in Congress with over 340 members from both the House and Senate. For almost 20 years, the Fire Caucus has provided a voice for the nation’s first responders in Washington and transformed the fire service as a whole. As the Founder and Co-Chairman, Weldon has provided leadership in Congress to increase the awareness of first responder issues and to enact legisla-tion to provide the country’s nation’s firefighters with the funding and resources they require. He led the effort to pass the Assistance to Firefighter’s Grant Program (FIRE Act)

that has provided over $3 billion in direct funding to local fire departments.

As Chairman of the House Tactical Air and Land Forces Subcommittee, Weldon also directly oversees $80 billion in defense spending on critical weapons systems and other military equipment.

Headquartered in Eagleville, PA, Streamlight, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of high-performance lighting equipment for profes-sional fire fighting, law enforcement, military, industrial, automotive and outdoor applications. Streamlight is an ISO 9001:2000 registered company. For additional information, please call Streamlight at 1-800-523-7488 or visit www.streamlight.com.

SOUTH DAKOTACrimson Fire

Crimson Fire Amy Bilka with Senator Tim Johnson’s office, Emy Carlson with Representative Stephanie Herseth’s office and Ben J. Ready with Senator John Thune’s office were in Brandon on Tuesday, May 23rd for a Home Day tour of the Brandon plant. President Jim Salmi gave the tour and discussed the importance of Crimson and other fire truck manufacturers within the fire industry.

l-r: Amy Bilka of Senator Tim Johnson’s office Jim Salmi, President, Crimson Fire, Emy Carlson of Congresswoman Stephanie Herseth’s office, Ben J. Ready of Senator John Thune’s office

WYOMINGWheatland Fire Equipment

On Friday, April 21st, Wheatland Fire Equipment hosted a FEMSA/FAMA “Home Day” to which Katie Legerski, Field Representative for US Representative Barbara Cubin, attended. FAMA(Fire Apparatus Manufacturers’ Association) and FEMSA(Fire Equipment Manufacturers and Services Association) are sponsoring “Home Days” across the USA in an effort to increase Congressional aware-ness of the need of funding for emergency service providers. At our Home Day, we specifically discussed Wyoming’s first respond-ers with Ms. Legerski.

What this means to Wyoming’s first responders: Wheatland Fire Equipment Co. is fully aware of the time, talent and train-ing it takes to be the front line of defense for Wyoming and its citizens. To maintain a high state of readiness and expertise requires funding at the State and Federal levels. Ms. Legerski was invited by Wheatland Fire Equipment and given a presentation regarding federal funding and how vital it is to fire departments


Top: Rep. Curt Weldon Sees Demonstrations of Flashlights for Fire/Rescue, MilitaryAbove: Rep. Curt Weldon and the Streamlight, Inc. Staff.


such as yours. This funding has been decreasing over the past few years regarding many valuable programs including: The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program, U.S. Fire Administration, SAFER Program

Utilizing organizations such as FEMSA and FAMA, Wheatland Fire Equipment Co. is doing our best to exemplify the need for continued funding of these and other programs. We intend to continue this effort on a State and Federal level until we are all as well prepared as possible for our next emergency whether it be local or national, natural or otherwise.

From Left to Right: Garey Cozad, CEO/Owner Wheatland Fire Equipment; Katie Legerski, Field Representative for US Rep. Barbara Cubin; Howard Cozad, Owner Wheatland Fire Equipment

WISCONSINUnited Plastic Fabricating Class 1/Hale ProductsOshkosh TruckPierce Manufacturing, Inc.May 1, 2006 — Home Day/Wisconsin Attendance: Congressman

Petri attended with his District Director David Anderson, Senator Feingold’s Regional Coordinator Bob Schweder attended. Pierce was represented by Jeff Resch and Mike Schoenberger. They dis-played one Pumper and one Homeland security unit.

Oshkosh Truck was represented by John Bourke who demon-strated an ARFF by pumping out 1500 gallons of water.

· Class One and Hale Pump was represented by Chris Magiera who demonstrated a pump and gage truck.

· United Plastic represented by Marty Etteldorf and myself. Plant Tour

Apparatus was viewed, toured and in one case Oshkosh unload-ed 1500 gallons of water out of its overhead snozel in 1.5 minutes. The Congressman and all of us were impressed with that demo.

· Plant Tour of United Plastic Fabricating. Presentation by Marty and George on facts about the member companies includ-ing number of employees, payrolls, tax data and local supply purchase, FAMA and FEMSA overview, our Alliance Group, GAC overview and our priorities for the Fire Act Grant, Safer and USFS. The presentation included overheads, graphs and handouts.

· Each company had a table top display and these were reviewed with the Congressman and Staffers by each com-pany representative.

· Award Presentation from Jeff representing FAMA and George representing the GAC. The Congressman and Senator Feingold’s staffer accepted plaques for their continued sup-port of the Fire Act Grant and SAFER.

Senator Feingold sent the following statement which was read by his staffer Davis Anderson:

Statement of Senator Russ Feingold — “Thank you so much for this award and congratulations on the opening of your new facility. I am proud of Wisconsin’s history of quality manufactur-ing and am delighted that it continues right here at United Plastic Fabricating where you make products that help firefighters protect our communities. As you know, I am a strong supporter of the Assistance to Firefighter Grant program. FIRE Act grants have been an unqualified success in getting much-needed resources directly to local firefighters, both full-time and volunteer. Wisconsin firefighters have done very well in earning these competitively

awarded grants and I have had the honor of presenting some of these well deserved awards to departments throughout the state. I will continue to fight for adequate funding for this important program.

Again, thank you for this award and for continuing your good work here in Neenah, Wisconsin. ■


Top: (left to right): WI Congressman Thomas E. Petri; Pierce Vice President of Sales, Jeff Resch; Regional Coordinator for Senator Russ Feingold, Bob Schweder and UPF VP Manufacturing Operations, George Goros.Above: Here Jeff Resch, Pierce VP of Sales shows the Pierce pumper and homeland security unit. (l-r) Congressman Petri; Senator Feingold’s Regional Coordinator Bob Schweder; Jeff Resch; Mike Schoenberger, Pierce, VP Customer Service; Chris Magiera, Hale/Class1 Midwest Operations Manager; George Goros, UPF VP Manufacturing Operations; and Marty Etteldorf, UPF


On Tuesday, June 6th, the House of Representatives approved H.R. 5441, the Fiscal Year 2007 Homeland Security spending bill. The bill, approved by a vote of 389-9, provides a 6% increase in funding for the operations and activities of the Department of Homeland Security.

The measure contains two amendments that will increase fund-ing for the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (FIRE Act) and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) program. The first amendment adds $111 million to the two pro-grams, including $41 million for the FIRE Act and $70 million for SAFER. The amendment was introduced by Congressman Martin Sabo (MN), the Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Homeland Security Appropriations. Co-sponsors of the measure includ-ed Congressman Curt Weldon (PA), Congressman Steny Hoyer (MD), Congressman John Sweeney (NY), Congressman Rob Andrews (NJ), Congressman Timothy Murphy (PA), Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr. (NJ), Congressman Jeb Bradley (NH), and Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones (OH).

The second amendment, intro-duced by Congressman Tom Price (GA) and Congressman Randy Kuhl (NY), will increase funding for the two programs by $4.2 million dol-lars, distributing $2.1 million to each program.

The final bill, as approved by the House, will provide $543.1 million for the FIRE Act and $112.1 million for SAFER.

On Thursday, July 13th, the Senate approved an amended version of the bill by a vote of 100-0. The bill contains an amendment offered by Senator Christopher Dodd (CT) and Senator Mike DeWine (OH) that will increase funding for the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (FIRE Act) and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Program to $552.5 million and SAFER at $127.5 million, respectively. The Senate and House will convene a conference committee to recon-cile the two versions of the bill before sending a final measure to their respective chambers for approval.

The Senate also overwhelmingly approved an amendment offered by Senator Susan Collins (ME). The amendment, approved 87-11, makes several structural changes to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), including changing the name to the United States Emergency Management Authority (USEMA). The preparedness and response functions of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) would be combined under USEMA. The agency will become an independent agency within DHS, limiting the Administration’s ability to reorganize the agency and repro-gram funding.

While the Senate reached agreement on a legislative proposal to restructure FEMA, the House continues to consider two mea-sures with distinctly separate approaches for reorganizing the agency. Legislation approved by the House Homeland Security Committee, H.R. 5351, is similar to the Collins amendment in that it strengthens FEMA while leaving the agency in DHS. It also restores the preparedness functions stripped from FEMA during the Second Stage Review.

Conversely, the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee approved H.R. 5316, the RESPOND Act. The legislation will remove FEMA from DHS and create a separate cabinet level agency. Committee members have been critical of DHS for its lack

of support of FEMA since the agency was enveloped into the department upon its formation. They contend that FEMA can function properly only by restoring it to its pre-DHS status as an independent agency.

It is quite likely that when the con-ference committee meets to consider HR 5441, its members will consult with both House committees, as well as the Senate Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee, on the provisions contained in the Collins amendment.

On Tuesday, July 25th, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 5852, “The 21st Century Emergency Communications Act of 2006.” The legislation, introduced by Congressmen Dave Reichert (WA) and Bill Pascrell (NJ), passed the House by a vote of 414-2. The bill will create an emergency communi-cations office within the Department of Homeland Security, headed by an assistant secretary for emergency communications, for the purpose of

enhancing operable and interoperable first responder communica-tions systems nationwide.

Under the legislation, the new office will be responsible for providing a baseline assessment of current emergency com-munications capabilities and the development of national stan-dards for emergency communications equipment. The office will also requires state and local governments to establish effective Statewide Interoperable Communications Plans before being able to use homeland security grant funds for emergency com-munications and will facilitate coordination of emergency com-munications by establishing regional working groups comprised of federal, state and local officials and first responders.

The Senate is currently considering several bills containing emergency communications components. Should the full Senate approve one of these measures, it is quite likely a conference com-mittee will convene to consider H.R. 5852. ■

“OUR MAN IN WASHINGTON” by Sean Carroll, Legislative Director, CFSI


THE HARRY CARTER 2006 FIRE ACT ROAD TRIP: THE TRUE STORY – by Harry R. Carter, Ph.D.

Jack Peltier and I have returned home. Back in April I decided to travel the highways and byways of our great nation in a quest to meet the real fire service. I thought this would be a great way to see and assess what folks out there are thinking and doing. I

wanted to meet the people who are protecting America on their own turf.

My best buddy Jack Peltier was the one who suggested that I go out and meet a number of departments who have ben-efited from the grants provided by the Assistance to Firefighters

program created by the FIRE Act legislation. These success stories, he felt, are critical to the future of the program.

Like you, I have heard a number of success stories, but my heart told me there was more to it than any of us really knew. My heart was right … and I plan to help justify more funding of the FIRE Act program by creating a journal that tells our Senators and Members of Congress about the true value of this program.

Thanks to the efforts of FAMA, FEMSA and a number of their individual members, Jack Peltier and I were able make our nearly month-long pilgrimage. We would have made some form of trip, but the support from FAMA and FEMSA folks allowed us to broaden the journey.

Over a 26-day span, 6,100 miles and 18 states, we visited fire department personnel from more than 45 departments at 27 separate locations. I also expect to conduct additional interviews in three more states, as well as meet with Congressman Pascrell later this month.

Along the way I created a daily web log for Firehouse.com. I hope you had a chance to follow the progress of our journey across America. More than 50 postings were made over the course of the road trip. They may still be viewed from the Firehouse.com web site (see link to Harry Carter’s Road Trip blog). There will be a series of articles written about our journey and all will be avail-able for you to use when communicating with your Senators and Members of Congress – something you must do. And don’t forget the people who write for your local newspapers and those on your local television stations. Be proactive and help me tell this story.

My goal for the trip and my continuing passion are and remain really quite simple. The current administration is trying to take away our FIRE Act money. People are scrambling to come up with ways to show the value of the program. What better way than to create a short, easy-to-read pamphlet featuring the people who have seen their organizations prosper because of the funds granted to them by the Assistance to Firefighters grant program?

In each place we visited, Jack and I met with people who have benefited from the FIRE Act. You can read the details of our visits in my blog, but here are some of the major highlights and insights learned from the trip:

· On-board computers and GPS equipment enabled wide-spread evacuation plans where before there was none

· Departments in the same region are coming together thanks to the FIRE Act and the new tools it has brought to them

· The FIRE Act has built new relationships and strengthened existing bonds due to fire officials from several counties work-ing together on grant applications

· From team-building efforts, departments within area counties are becoming interoperable

· Of those departments interviewed, the top items of need purchased with FIRE Act funds were personal protective equipment (PPE), self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), thermal imaging cameras, rescue and extrication tools

· Grants have allowed departments and counties the technology to provide county-wide communications systems, regardless of their frequency; have created true models of interoperability success; have funded virtual-reality fire inspectors training pro-grams now in use by more than 400 different fire departments in 47 states; have created in-house teleconference system with equipment in every station within a department for more effective and efficient training operations keeping firefighters available for emergency response from their own stations

· Morale is a fragile commodity and the FIRE Act breathed new life into every fire department we met

We owe it to our fire departments and first responders to fight with all our heart to make the FIRE Act all it can be.

Thank you for believing in the rightness of our journey. This is just a sampling of what you will see from us in the future. Stay tuned! ■

Harry R. Carter, Ph.D., CFO, MIFireE is a Firehouse Contributing Editor. A municipal fire protection consultant based in Adelphia, New Jersey, he is the former President of the International Society of Fire Service Instructors. He is a Past Chief and Active Life Member of the Adelphia Fire Company. Currently the Chairman of the Board of Fire Commissioners for the Howell Township District #2, he retired from the Newark, NJ Fire Department in 1999 as a Battalion Commander. He also served as Chief of Training and Commander of the Hazardous Materials Response Team. Dr. Carter is currently Secretary of the United States Branch of the Institution of Fire Engineers of Great Britain (MIFireE). You can contact him through [email protected].

Harry Carter

Jack Peltier

Bagpipers at FDIC exhibits opening day


HISTORICAL TID-BITS AND VINTAGE POSTERS FROM 1946

... Celebrating 60 years — FAMA ... 1946 – 2006

The Year 1946 … and TodayPresident: Harry S. Truman (#33) George W. Bush (#43) Population: 141,388,566 286,196,812 (2000 Census)Life expectancy/male: 66.7 yrs. 80.5 yrs.Life expectancy/female: 72 yrs. 80.5 yrs.


MUTUAL AID AMERICAS ... “FIREFIGHTERS HELPING FIREFIGHTERS” — submitted by Jack McLoughlin, Fire Research Corp.

Mutual-Aid America is a 501 (c) 3 that assists under funded fire departments in Latin America. Our program began after the September 11, 2001 disaster with the chance meeting between myself and the Deputy Chief from South America, who was in NYC to help the FDNY and the city. Deputy Chief Christian Huerta stayed with me at the Engine 58 firehouse for a week in October of 2001. After his stay in NYC, he invited me for a friendly visit to his home in Guayaquil, Ecuador.

I spent a week in Guayaquil, and during my stay I was able to make many observations on what the Fire Department was lack-ing. Before leaving, I vowed to Chief Huerta that I would return and send some equipment. Since that meeting Mutual-Aid was formed and we have sent 20 trucks and 100’s of sets of Bunker Gear and Air-Packs to Guayaquil.

With our ability as a 501(c) 3 public charity to give a tax advan-tage to donors, we would like to find a mutually advantageous way to work with dealers who get used apparatus in trade. Our sweet spot is mid-1970’s to early 1980’s apparatus, mainly due to condition and price. Of course, if donated, we will gladly accept newer and better apparatus.

We also understand and participate in the U.S. market for used fire fighting apparatus and equipment and have moved our share of both. It is clear to us that supply exceeds demand.

Often, we have seen small fire departments hold on to appara-tus for unreasonable periods of time in the hope of selling them at prices that are above what the market will bear. And we know that these are apparatus that the dealers just will not take in trade.

Often, these vehicles from the late 70’s and early 80’s, and have very low mileage and are well maintained. They are among the most desirable for our purposes.

We would like to work with you and anyone that you can recruit to our cause to get this type of apparatus donated to Mutual Aid Americas, Inc., for which we would be glad to arrange a letter confirming the donation at full market value.

There are many advantages to our program:• With apparatus leaving the U.S. going to Latin America, it

keeps U.S. departments with the most modern and safe equipment.

• When an apparatus leaves the states, departments have to buy new. With all the grant money available, it is now easier for small departments to buy newer equipment.

• It keeps America working, when we have a market for new equipment, Americans have jobs.

• This program may lead to new markets in Latin America, as the economies get stronger. Working with Mutual Aid Americas, Inc., we will help to start to build brand loyalty. If they like their 1983 Brand X, I am sure they will be looking to buy a new Brand X when the funds are available.

• It will help to keep equipment from piling up in our facilities. I can’t tell you how many stations I visit, where I see equip-ment piled up in the storage shed, or a truck parked outside, rusting and exposed to weather. That Parade piece that was the pride of the department 5 years ago, is now rusting. That same piece could be saving lives in another city.

We are currently working on a program which, if it is success-fully launched, will name apparatus in memory of all our fallen brothers from 9/11. We hope that the equipment we send will help to keep them in our memories while their namesake appara-tus continues to do the work that they loved and died for. And that the apparatus named for them will help to maintain the safety and possibly save the lives of those unfortunate FF’s who are working with either sub-standard or no equipment at all.

I hope that you will take an interest in what we are doing and find ways in which we may work with you and with apparatus and equipment dealers throughout the U.S. ■

Very truly yours,Daniel P. Sheridan, Captain, FDNYDirector


American LaFrance

[May 24, 2006] American Lafrance, LLC announced today that it has selected the site for its new corporate headquarters and state-of-the-art emergency and vocational vehicle assem-bly plant. The Company plans to lease approximately 45 acres adjacent to the Charleston Southern University campus at U.S. Highway 78, just off I-26 in North Charleston from a design-build developer. The Company, the University and the developer are in the process of finalizing the site and development arrangements. Construction is projected to begin in the near future for comple-tion in the second quarter of 2007.

The Company’s new $35 million complex will include a 57,500-square-foot headquarters and 420,000-square-foot assembly plant. American LaFrance plans to begin a phased occupancy beginning in April 2007. In addition to its current 430 person employment base in Charleston County, the Company expects to create at least 200 new jobs as it expands its refuse and vocational vehicle line and other products.

“We are very excited about our new location and facilities. It is a relationship that brings together the very best of business, education and community. It creates an environment that fosters continuing educational growth, leading edge business practices, and career enhancing work programs that will lead to jobs and careers right here in our own community,” said John Stevenson, President and CEO of American LaFrance, LLC.

“Having a manufacturing company adjacent to a university campus is very unique in today’s business world,” Stevenson continued. “This is the type of partnership that is needed to keep American companies competitive and to secure jobs for our chil-dren. We are honored that Charleston Southern University has chosen to partner with us in this program. Their educational pro-gram focuses on five life preparation concepts: values and ethics, communication, leadership, service, and wellness. In fact, these are also the same principles that are the backbone of the fire and EMS community. These common beliefs will form a foundation of understanding that will allow American LaFrance to excel in meeting the needs of our customers.”

Charleston Southern University President, Dr. Jairy C. Hunter, Jr., sees value in the opportunities for students this American LaFrance deal will provide, and believes it will lead to the creation of new programs. “Revenue the University will receive from leas-ing and developing our excess property will be used for student scholarships and other University priorities,” Hunter said.

“The scholarships, internships and job opportunities this venture provides to our students is the most exciting element of this agreement,” Hunter said. “American LaFrance’s presence on campus will directly benefit our students, and our students are our most important investment.”

Code 3[July 17, 2006] Code 3’s parent company, Public Safety

Equipment, Inc. (PSE), has acquired LaserCraft, Inc., a designer and supplier of laser based detection, measurement and law-enforcement systems. Based in Norcross, Georgia, LaserCraft was founded in 1994 and has 65 employees.

LaserCraft is poised to become a leader in automated speed enforcement through its Laser RMS Red Light Enforcement sys-tem, which features a proprietary above ground laser detection module.

Crimson Fire[Brandon, S.D., April 27, 2006] Crimson Fire has added two

new dealers that will expand its sales and distribution reach in two key markets.

The Brandon, South Dakota-based manufacturer of cus-tom fire trucks recently signed deals with Summit Emergency Equipment and Emergency Vehicle Group to carry its complete line of custom aerial ladders, pumpers, quick-attacks and other fire and rescue vehicles. Both dealers have already secured orders for Crimson Fire vehicles.

Summit Emergency Equipment is based in Colorado and sells extensively in the Western states, including Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, Arizona, Wyoming and Montana. The company is a second-generation dealer experienced in both making and selling fire trucks.

“Brian and Mark Becker bring a wealth of experience to sales in the fire industry, and we are extremely pleased that they will be representing Crimson Fire,” said Jim Salmi, presi-dent of Crimson Fire. “We have had a big gap in our dealer coverage in this region, which continues to experience strong population growth.

MEMBER NEWS


“Summit’s team enjoys an exceptional reputation in our indus-try. Its addition to our dealer ranks gives us immediate credibility in this key market — and access to customers who will have a need for our complete line of fire-rescue vehicles.”

Emergency Vehicle Group is based in Southern California and has extensive experience in the emergency vehicle market. Owned by the Grinstead family, Emergency Vehicle currently sells ambulances produced by Road Rescue, a sister company to Crimson Fire.

“The addition of Crimson Fire vehicles will allow the Emergency Vehicle Group to expand its existing relationships with current customers,” Salmi said. “A recent Crimson Fire survey shows that 92 percent of companies who purchase a fire truck are also in the market for an ambulance, so there is tremendous synergy between product lines.

Detroit Diesel Corporation[July 20, 2006] Working to Retain a Leadership Position in the

Industry ... In Feb. of 2005, DaimlerChrysler announced a $275 million investment in Detroit Diesel’s Redford, MI Manufacturing Facility. As a wholly owned subsidiary of DaimlerChrysler AG, Detroit Diesel has been in the business of designing and manu-facturing heavy-duty diesel engines for close to seven decades.

The investment would not only make a significant contribu-tion toward physical improvements to the plant, but forge the future of the company as it works to retain its leadership position in the commercial vehicle market in North America.

As of late July, much work has been done to the plant since the announcement. The assembly area for the company’s flagship product — the heavy-duty Series 60 engine — received numer-ous upgrades made to ensure production continues smoothly for 2007 and beyond, such as painting, roof repair, machinery upgrades and more.

The Redford, MI plant will also begin production on the 2007-EPA-compliant MBE 900 engine model early next year. The medium-duty MBE 900 is used for vocational and municipal applications including fire and emergency applications.

In addition to this progress, a new assembly line is being cre-ated for the Heavy-Duty Engine Project. This entirely new engine will be launched in phases with a 14.8L set to go into production in limited quantities in late 2007, followed by a 12.8L version in 2010. This engine is being developed in conjunction with colleagues at DaimlerChrysler in Stuttgart, Germany, Mitsubishi Fuso (a DaimlerChrysler company) in Japan and Freightliner LLC in Portland, Oregon. This will be the future of Detroit Diesel for the next 10 to 20 years so every detail for its development and launch are being carefully considered.

As for the remainder of 2006 and the focus of the company in addition to its facility improvement, the company is working diligently to ensure that its products meet the new emissions standards that take effect Jan. 1, 2007.

E-ONEOcala, FL, (July 18, 2006) — When disaster strikes, whether

natural or man-made, cities are often left in complete com-munication failure. This includes those critical first responders

responsible for helping the community and, more importantly, saving lives.

The South Mississippi Regional Response Team (SMRRT) was formed in 2002 to prepare the six counties it encompasses with the tools and training to manage emergencies ranging from chemical, biological, radiological, and explosive situations to natural disasters. They, therefore, recently took delivery of an E-ONE HazMat/Command vehicle.

“This rescue will allow us to interface with different agen-cies throughout the nation involved in a large scale disaster and safely address any hazards we are presented,” said SMRRT team leader, Chief Pat Sullivan. Federal Homeland Security funds were allocated to the state of Mississippi then filtered to the regions to use at their own discretion. Representatives from the six counties in the southern region then formed SMRRT to make certain the funds were properly spent.

“This rescue vehicle would not have been possible without the Homeland Security funding,” Sullivan said. “I feel we have been good stewards of the grant money because we know that public money is scarce and we realize how important it is to be prepared.”

“The total communication failure we experienced during Hurricane Katrina was indescribable,” Sullivan said. “Having the tools to address catastrophic situations like that, whether man-made or natural, is invaluable.”

Ferrara Fire Apparatus, Inc.[July 14, 2006] Ferrara Fire Apparatus, Inc. continues grow-

ing its business by adding new products and more benefits for customers. In order to accommodate the ever-increasing demand for Ferrara products, the company has expanded ten times in five years. The most recent enlargement adds 40,000 square feet to our manufacturing facility. Another recent expansion added 46,000 square feet dedicated to Service and Refurbishment. Trailer/Body Builders magazine featured the new area in their May 2006 issue, highlighting Ferrara’s ability to facilitate quick turn-arounds on service and refurbishments. By having 300,000 square feet under roof, Ferrara Fire Apparatus, Inc. is able to keep pace with its rapidly growing business.

MEMBER NEWS


Hackney Emergency Vehicles[July 11, 2006] Steve Stefanides

has joined Hackney as Southeastern Regional Sales Manager. Steve will be responsible for sales of all Hackney emergency vehicle prod-ucts in all states encompassing the Southeastern United States. Steve brings over 30 years of fire appara-tus and equipment sales and man-agement experience to his new position, five years as a career fire-fighter, along with major personal relationships with his customer base. He will be based out of South Florida, residing in Marco Island.

Oshkosh TruckOSHKOSH, WIS. (June 23, 2006) — Oshkosh Truck Corporation

[NYSE: OSK], today announced the signing of a definitive agree-ment to purchase all the stock and membership interests of AK Specialty Vehicles, a world leader in mobile medical, homeland security command and communications, and broadcast vehicles, from Healthtronics, Inc. [NASDAQ: HTRN] in a cash transaction worth approximately $140 million.

The acquisition is expected to further diversify Oshkosh Truck’s business in the global specialty truck industry, strengthen Oshkosh’s position within the homeland security industry for command and communications vehicles and continue its expan-sion in the European specialty vehicle market.

“We believe that AK Specialty Vehicles offers profitable, near-term growth prospects and is in line with our existing acquisi-tion strategy and initiative for continued diversification within complementary markets,” said Robert G. Bohn, Oshkosh chair-man, president and chief executive officer. “AK Specialty Vehicles and its brands are renowned and recognized leaders in their respective markets for technology integration and exceptional customer service.”

“This acquisition again moves Oshkosh Truck into new mar-kets and reaffirms our commitment to providing leading-edge products and technologies to specialty truck users. AK Specialty is respected for its technology leadership among broadcast and mobile medical vehicle customers, providing, we believe, oppor-tunities for additional growth,” stated Bohn.

Pierce Manufacturing, Inc.

The official opening of the Pierce Manufacturing facility expansion. (l-r:) Robert Bohn, CEO Oshkosh Truck Corporation; Congressman Mark Green; Denny Lamers, McMahon Group; Greg Kippenhan, Miron Construction; John Gard, State Representative; and John

Randjelovic, President of Pierce.

[April 20, 2006, APPLETON, Wis.] — Pierce Manufacturing, Inc. today officially opened its new manufacturing expansion at its Grand Chute, Wis., facility. Congressman Mark Green and Wisconsin State Representative John Gard spoke at the ribbon cutting ceremony attended by local officials, Pierce and Oshkosh Truck Corporation employees, and suppliers.

The expansion was spurred by strong growth in the fire, res-cue and homeland security apparatus industry. The development provides Pierce with additional capacity to meet this growing demand, help enhance quality, reduce lead times for custom-ers, and streamline manufacturing processes in line with the company’s “lean” manufacturing initiative.

“Our customers’ confidence in Pierce’s premium-quality appa-ratus has given us the confidence to move forward with this major expansion. As you can see, the facility is up and running, continuing to meet our customers needs,” said John Randjelovic, president of Pierce. “We look forward to a very productive future, and to continue to provide our customers across North America and the world with the finest fire and rescue vehicles.”

In May 2005, Pierce Manufacturing received approval from the Oshkosh Truck Corporation Board of Directors to begin working on the $18.5 million dollar expansion. Pierce increased its square footage in the McCarthy Road facility by 125,000 square feet, with a new footprint of 265,000 square feet of manufacturing space. Construction began in July 2005, and Pierce began mov-ing manufacturing lines into the facility in December. In January 2006, Pierce started production, without any interruptions to their schedule.

RealWheels Cover Co.[July 10, 2006] Over 25 years ago, RealWheels President,

Mr. Jan Polka developed a chrome wheel cover to go over the unattractive cast-spoke wheels of his Kenworth truck. At the time, he did not know how this simple idea would someday impact the appearance of thousands of vehicles across America and worldwide.

Today, RealWheels holds numerous U.S. patents for their inno-vative designs, and is the exclusive United States manufacturer of stainless steel wheel simulators, wheel co ers, and other large vehicle wheel accessories.

“Shining bright for 25 years,” RealWheels celebrates its silver anniversary in 2006.

Task Force Tips, Inc.[July 10, 2006] Task Force Tips has recently brightened its

horizon with the addition of Scott Akins as Vice President of New Product Development. His professional experi-ence, his MBA, along with an electrical engineering degree from the U.S. Naval Academy, made him a hands down choice to lead TFT’s strategic initia-tives in new product development and market introduction.

Before TFT, Akins was director of engineering for Fisher Scientific’s Barnant, the worldwide leader

MEMBER NEWS


of peristaltic pump technology. While there, he established specifications, developed and released 24 new products while also juggling ongoing engineering responsibilities. He previ-ously served as Director of Technical Services and Senior Product Manager for Omnicell, a leading provider of systems and soft-ware solutions targeting patient safety and operational efficiency in healthcare facilities.

TFT isn’t the only group thankful for Akins’ help. The U.S. Navy bestowed an award on him for “superior perfor-mance during combat operations” for his efforts in Operation Desert Storm.

It’s Akins and other TFT workhorses who are forcing the com-pany to once again expand their facilities in an effort to keep up with increasing sales. As a part of the expansion, trucks will be delivering a number of Robotic Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining centers to TFT’s South Plant in late August, all of which will hopefully help bring the unsafe practice of the firefighter standing on top of the truck using a deck gun to a much needed end. Aside from the safety issues, many fire departments are dealing with budget cuts and reduced staff-ing. It should come as no surprise that TFT engineers are busy developing products that will keep firefighters on the ground,

close to pump operations, as well as maximizing the effectiveness and safety of the crews.

Speaking of change, Task Force Tips’ website has an entirely new look thanks to Business Systems Programmer Barb Wheele. The updat-ed site features a fresh, clean design that’s easier to navigate. See the dif-ference at www.tft.com. ■

IN MEMORIAM

FAMA is deeply saddened to report the passing of:• Tom Brennan, former editor and technical editor with Fire

Engineering magazine, circa April 20, 2006.• Helen Fish, April 30, 2006, Lila Gillespie’s mother• Edward H. McCormack, Jr., April 11, 2006 [see separate

article in this issue].• Dick Otte, April 30, 2006, long-time friend of the fire and

emergency services industry (formerly with Power Hawk and others).

• Ralph Rauch, June 13, 2006, formerly with the Texas A & M Fire School for 30 years.

• Saralyn Wagers, May 3, 2006, a supplier and a friend to many for decades, and considered the first lady of the fire industry.

The thoughts and prayers of all FAMA members are with the families and friends of our dearly departed. ■

THINKING OF YOU

Roxann Peters — 6 year old daughter of Vince Peters (former-ly of Fire Engineering) was a passenger in an automobile accident on June 2 and suffered major injuries. Thanks to all your prayers and support, she is in rehab and is doing remarkably well.

Betty Simpson — Jim Simpson’s mother (Marion Body) who suffered a heart attack in late April, is back in Wisconsin and is doing fine. She (and Bud) appreciated the emails, cards and gifts that were sent.

George Sztykiel — of Spartan, who continues good progress since his stroke last December. Son John reports that he is still walking with a cane but his balance is getting better. His left hand is progressing slowly, “THE DESTROYER” he calls it. He will not be in Dallas but plans to attend the FDIC in ’07. ■

MEMBER NEWS

P.O. Box 397, Lynnfield, MA 01940-0397Tel & Fax: (781) 334-2911E-Mail: [email protected] Web site: www.fama.org

Editors: Karen Burnham Tim Dean

Photographers: Pat MurphyDesign: Alana Herron

© Copyright 2006, FAMA, Inc., MA (USA)

Deadline for Next Newsletter —November 1, 2006.

Show/Meeting/Contact Date/Phone PlaceFire Rescue Canada Aug 13–16 Halifax, NSIncident Management Symposium (Phoenix FD) Sep 7–9 Phoenix, AZFire-Rescue International Sep 14–16

Dallas, TX

Contact: Karissa Jacobs at IAFC 703-273-0911 EXT 338

FAMA Tech Meeting Sep 16 Dallas, TXNew Jersey FF Contact Ron McGowan 609-522-1822 Sep 15–16 Wildwood, NJFDIC WEST Contact Lila or Nanci at 888-TEL-FDIC Sep 23–27 Los Angeles, CAIAFC Southwestern Div. Oct (tbd) Midwest City, OKFAMA/FEMSA GAC “Hill Day” Oct 5 Washington, DCFall Meeting: FEMSA (5–6) FAMA (6–7) Oct 5–7 Crystal City, VAFDSOA Annual Conf. Contact: FDSOA 508-881-3114 Oct 28–Nov 2 Orlando, FL Fire Rescue Conf. & Expo. including Fire-Tech Reno Nov 8–12

Las Vegas, NV

Contact: Ed Nichols 203-840-5968 IAFC Volunteer & Combination Officers Symposium Nov 9–12 Orlando, FL

— CALENDAR UPDATES MAY BE FOUND AT WWW.FAMA.ORG —

FAMA’s 2006 FIRE SERVICE TRADE SHOW AND EVENTS CALENDAR

FIRE APPARATUS MANUFACTURERS’ ASSOCIATION, Inc. P.O. Box 397

Lynnfield, MA 01940-0397

FAMA gratefully acknowl-edges the generosity of Fire Engineering management and staff for the artwork and printing of the Flyer.

fama flyer summer 2006

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