FAMA Flyer Winter 2011/2012 by Windmill Hill Consulting, LLC

WINTER 2011-2012 Issue Presidents’ Messages. . . . . . . . . 2 Fall Meeting Recap. . . . . . . . . . . 3 The Year Ahead in Washington. . . 4

FAMA – Answering the Call

Governmental Affairs

Governmental Affairs Committee (US) . . . . . . . . . . 5 Akron Brass Hosts 2011 Home Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Rosenbauer Hosts Home Day. . . 7 Canadian Governmental Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Axle Weight Regulations . . . . . . . 8 A Summary From Our Guest Economist . . . . . . . 10 Welcome New FAMA Members . . 10 Trade Show Report Card . . . . . . 11 In Memoriam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Vulnerability Asset Project. . . . . 13 New US Fire Administrator. . . . . . 14 Robert J. Barraclough Internship Program. . . . . . . . 15 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Making It in America . . . . . . . . . . 17

A Publication of Fire Apparatus Manufacturers’ Association, Inc.

FAMA FLYER

Spring Annual Meeting. . . . . 18-20 Member News. . . . . . . . . . . . 20-23 FAMA Board Listing and Professional Resources. . . . . 23 2012 Events. . . . . . . . . Back Cover

The Road Ahead

Presidents’ Messages

2012 president

past president

by Gregory Kozey

by Grady North

ear Members: On behalf of the FAMA board, I thank past president Grady North for his service. Grady has always been, and continues to be, a great ambassador for the fire industry. Before 2011 drifts too far behind us, I want to recognize two notable accomplishments in numbers: 1. We experienced a net growth in membership and remain strong at 128 member companies entering into 2012. 2. We exceeded our revenue expectations in 2011 and anticipate further growth in 2012. With these basic strengths, I am looking ahead to many exciting opportunities for 2012 including: • The spring meeting which is shaping up well with Bob Grimaldi in full control. (Details are included in this newsletter.) • Our statistics and analysis continue to improve so that FAMA data will aid your teams in making more informed business and buying decisions. • The Fire Act Grant funding require continued effort from our GAC advisor, Dave Gatton, the GAC and our entire membership to keep legislators educated and enlightened to ensure current funding levels. I know that prioritizing communication with our membership is critical. Identifying the needs and desires of our members should always be our goal. Developing a plan to improve communication with our members will also be of high importance. FAMA is and always should be a member driven organization. Here’s to a productive and rewarding year in 2012! ◉

nlike the economy or perhaps because of it, 2011 has been an outstanding year for FAMA. Membership is at its highest level as more and more companies recognize the benefits of association with FAMA including the industry’s only comprehensive fire apparatus sales statistics and in-depth technical expertise. The initiatives for 2011 were to improve communication with our membership, improve statistics and analysis plus update long range planning. To improve communication, we have expanded our scope beyond FAMA by joining and providing weekly reports from the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM). The technical committee is now producing its own newsletter and is working on an access portal for the website that will allow committee members to more effectively communicate with each other. Through great presentations at our spring and fall meetings – also from sources outside of our industry—we’ve had tremendous insight into economic conditions and their potential long-term effects on our industry. We have many exciting opportunities waiting for us in 2012 as Greg takes over as president. The new website portal and professional statistical analysis will be completed in 2012 along with our first member survey on “the state of the industry.” There will also be opportunity for FAMA to take the first step to export member expertise and knowledge through symposiums and seminars. It has been my pleasure serving as FAMA president in 2011. Until you have served in this position, you cannot fully appreciate all of the hard work performed behind the scenes. Our administrator, Karen Burnham, works tirelessly to keep everything on track and to make sure deadlines are met – example: this newsletter you are reading. Every member of the board has contributed to the success of our organization this year. Committee chairs have stepped up to not only meet increasing demands of their positions but to improve the professional presentation of their work. Thank you for your support. ◉

WINTER 2011– 2012

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fall meeting recap

A Magician, a Mayor, and a Media Expert Walk Into a Room... The Broadly Informative and Pleasantly Entertaining Fall Annual Meeting Jeff Resch, Paul Carpenter, Jan Polka

By John Swanson

he fall meeting in Arlington, VA (Washington DC) was well attended by both FAMA and FEMSA members. We were treated to very informative and entertaining presentations during the meetings and a magician/psychic at the awards banquet that had everyone asking, “How did he do that?” – I still don’t know how he got the $20.00 bill inside the lemon! Michael Bell, Mayor of Toledo, Ohio and former Fire Chief of Toledo was the keynote speaker who told us about the lack of funding his city is facing and the steps they are taking to turn things around. Two of these efforts include bringing in foreign investors and changing the way some Toledo city departments do business. One of the most entertaining presenters we have ever had was Anirban Basu, an economist who shared his thoughts on the present state of the economy, how we got where we are, and where we are headed in the short- and long term. Anirban believes that if the Dow gets to 14,000, it will cure a lot of the economic issues that we currently face. Bill Webb gave us an update on the AFG and SAFER grants that are gradually being reduced. He also mentioned a current bill that would add jobs within our industry. Bill encouraged us to talk to our Congressmen. Fire Drill topics included Social Media (Facebook, Twitter), Liability Issues on Social Media, Export Sales, Home Days (how to put on a Home Day), APPS 2 (business applications for smart phones and tablets), Going Green (energy efficient buildings), Planning a Multi-Generational Vacation (mom, dad, grandfather, grandmother and the kids), and How to do a Podcast. Surviving in a Turbulent Economy was the topic for the Fire Chiefs Roundtable. The chiefs answered questions and gave their views on current and future purchases and creative ways they are obtaining funding. During the FAMA business meeting, two topics were brought up for discussion: 1. Should we open up our membership to include Mexico? The by-laws currently state only US and Canadian companies are eligible. 2. Should FAMA take over the management of the Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA) Apparatus Specification & Vehicle Maintenance Symposium? There were several good points made for and against both questions. The board will put together a proposal to present to the membership. ◉

Special thanks to Annual Meeting sponsors FireRescue1.com, FireRescue Magazine and FirefighterNation.com, PennWell Corp., FIREHOUSE Companies, Fire Chief Publications, Spartan Motors, and AMDOR.

www.fama.org

WINTER 2011– 2012

Toledo, Ohio Mayor Mike Bell (keynote speaker) with Grady North (FAMA President)

Bob Grimaldi, Toh Meng and Kit Cafaro

Presentation to Mary McCormack on her retirement from the FDSOA - Grady North, Mary

the year ahead in washington

NOTICE TO FAMA/FEMSA MEMBERS:

Brace Yourself For A Challenging Year In Washington By Bill Webb, CFSI Executive Director

“A

ncient Rome declined because it had a Senate; now what’s going to happen to us with both a Senate and a House?” That’s a good question and I’m not sure Will Rogers ever found the answer. As we enter a new year, concerns abound about many issues that will once again come before the House and Senate and whether – during an election year no less – the two chambers can work together to address a bevy of legislation issues. If recent efforts between the two chambers provide any indication, then we shouldn’t expect much from Congress. For those of us who have been in this town for the past 25 years, we have witnessed a transformation on Capitol Hill – not a positive one by any stretch of the imagination. Congress has certainly become more polarized in recent years. It’s difficult to pinpoint the actual date and time when they crossed that threshold. But we as a nation are certainly suffering the negative effects of a House and Senate that remain divided and entrenched on so many important issues. There seems to be very little room left for compromise in Washington, DC. In the minds of many, the term itself has become synonymous with capitulation. How quickly we forget that President Reagan had to work with a Congress controlled by the Democrats, or that President Clinton needed the support of a Republican Speaker of the House, including Newt Gingrich, to get many of his initiatives through a Republican-controlled House during six of his eight years in office. Both of these Presidents left behind impressive legacies. While they embraced the agendas of their respective political parties, they were wise enough to understand when they needed to cross the political aisles and strike compromises. As we enter a new year, we need to understand the political climate on Capitol Hill and never allow ourselves to become mired in the partisan gamesmanship taking place in the halls of Congress. The fire service has prevailed for many years now because we have covered our bases and worked closely with our friends from both sides of the political divide. Have you ever heard either the Republican or Democratic leadership stake their claim to AFG or SAFER? No. That is because, since the inception of these two programs, a coalition of members from the respective political parties have worked together to preserve both programs – some of whom did not necessarily endear

themselves with party leadership because of their support. And work we must. Who knows what 2012 will bring on Capitol Hill – or won’t bring. Given the state of the economy and efforts on the Hill to curb spending, we cannot become complacent. As Yogi Berra once said, “The future is not what it used to be.” There are no guarantees that any programs are sacrosanct anymore. Do you remember the Community Oriented Policing Services programs (COPS)? Prior to AFG/SAFER, the fire service was envious of law enforcement because the program received at its high-water mark $1 billion. How quickly things can change. For Fiscal Year 2013, Congress approved $199 million, a drastic reduction but better than what the House Appropriations Committee approved – $0. I do not mean to sound like an alarmist, but a realist instead. I certainly enjoyed the opportunity to address the FAMA/FEMSA conference that took place in our nation’s capital in the fall. During my presentation, I looked into the audience and saw a number of new faces I had not seen at prior conferences. That was very encouraging. But then I thought about the 600 to 800 companies that attend FDIC, FRI or Firehouse and wondered why more companies are not actively involved in FAMA and FEMSA. If the industry wants more support from Capitol Hill, then more companies need to get involved. Do not expect others to carry the load for the entire industry. Every company in the industry should become involved in the work of these two associations. If you do not feel it is a worthy investment, then explain to the leadership why. I’m sure they would like to hear from you. As all the fire service associations work together in advancing the core issues – whether it’s funding for AFG/SAFER, passage of the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act, or reallocation of the D block for public safety – please consider CFSI an important source of information to help you in becoming more involved in the legislative process. Our website (www.cfsi.org) contains important information, including a listing of fire service legislation and Congressional Fire Services Caucus members, and other pertinent information to help you prepare for potential meetings with your elected leaders. While Rome fell many years ago, it’s safe to say America will not even trip with a House and a Senate. Hence, we must continue to work with both chambers and educate our elected leaders about the needs of our local first responders and the role of your businesses in addressing those needs – and do so in a way that keeps the focus on unity both on the Hill and within the fire service itself. ◉

WINTER 2011– 2012

www.fama.org

governmental affairs

GAC (us)

Sleepless in Seattle or Clueless in D.C.? by Dave Gatton

Submitted just before the FAMA Flyer Winter 2011-2012 edition deadline and ahead of Congress’ holiday recess.

have, with this article, conceded that I am giving up on any attempt to predict budget outcomes within our Congress. Such an exercise is fraught with political peril and only makes for sleepless nights and clueless fools. I almost bet my life that the House and Senate Supercommittee, formed to strike a budget deal that would significantly reduce our projected national debt over the next decade, would succeed. Instead I was the victim, again, of wishful thinking. The budget Supercommittee failed.

But wait, am I wrong again? Already Congressional representatives and the Administration are saying this cannot stand. Although the President has threatened a veto of any legislation to undo the automatic cuts, he also wants to extend the middle class Bush tax cuts; certain Congressional members are saying the automatic cuts on the Defense Department can’t go forward. Others say the cuts on domestic agencies are too severe. The voices come from every direction: save entitlements, cut entitlements; raise taxes on millionaires, cut taxes on millionaires; close corporate loopholes, extend tax benefits to create jobs; build infrastructure, WAIT, maybe they actually agree on infrastructure, just not how to pay for it.

WHAT A CACOPHONY! In the meantime, we can take some solace that “I almost bet my life it appears likely—here comes the prediction— that the House and Or did they? that Congress will wrap up its appropriations Senate Supercommittee… Through this latest round of DC gridlock, bills for Fiscal Year 2012 by the holiday recess. would succeed.” an outcome lives. The law that formed the Plans are that the remaining appropriations Supercommittee and set discretionary bills, including the Department of Homeland spending levels for each of the next ten years (yes, it’s the law), also had Security, will be rolled into one final omnibus bill. a fallback requirement just in case the Supercommittee failed. As you recall, the Senate has proposed a funding level of $375 The fallback? By law, $1.2 trillion must be cut from the federal million for the Assistance to Firefighter Grants (AFG) program and the budget automatically starting in 2013 through what is called a House has proposed $335 million. Given the contribution of our first sequestration process where half the cuts will be imposed on the responders to the public safety and welfare of the nation, let’s hope for Department of Defense; the other half on domestic discretionary and work toward the higher number. agencies. Plus, if Congress does nothing, the Bush tax cuts of the Yes, I’m both clueless and sleepless these days. But I keep reminding last decade will expire—yes, it’s the law—at the end of 2012, and all myself not to lose faith in our system of government. We are still the taxpayers will have to pay the rate of taxes they paid during the 1990s, envy of the world and we are a resilient country. I still contend that raising some $2.8 trillion over the next decade. the people are not as divided as their politicians; it will take a lot to Now I know that many of our FAMA and FEMSA members will be dissuade me. of a split mind on these matters. But the reality is that if gridlock were Best wishes for a healthy, prosperous and Happy New Year. ◉ to reign, if Congress let current laws stand, the result would be at least $6.25 trillion of deficit reduction over the next decade (taking into account interest savings). That may or may not be comforting, since it clearly would be better for Congress to exercise more judgment on where the spending cuts should come from, and whose taxes should increase or decrease. I’m taking bets. But at the end of day, if gridlock reigns, all is not lost.

www.fama.org

WINTER 2011– 2012

governmental affairs

2011 Home Day Showcases Ohio’s Fire and Emergency Services Manufacturing Industry Ohio-based Manufacturers and Suppliers Employ More than 9,000

ederal, state and local policy makers and economic development officials had an opportunity to learn about Ohio’s fire and emergency equipment industry at the fall 2011 Home Day sponsored by Akron Brass Company. Eight Ohio companies representing Ohio’s fire and emergency services manufacturers and suppliers hosted an event at Akron Brass Company to showcase and illustrate the quality products made in the state and used to protect lives all over the world. There are 17 Ohio member companies involved in manufacturing and distribution for the fire and emergency equipment industry. Apart from being critical

Akron Brass President Tom Hudak describes Akron processing to Congressman Jim Renacci

productivity, job creation and taxes paid in addition to the job it performs in our communities,” said Tom Hudak, President for Akron Brass and a representative of the Fire and Emergency Manufacturers and Services Association and the Fire Apparatus Manufacturers’ Congresswoman Betty Sutton learns the finer points of Akron Brass nozzles from Akron VP of Marketing, Association. “We believe it David Durstine is important for our elected officials at all levels to understand what this industry means — not only to the safety of our to public safety, this industry is very important to the state’s economy. citizens and emergency responders, but also to Ohio’s economy.” “The fire and emergency equipment industry in Ohio makes The event gave manufacturers the opportunity to demonstrate their a significant economic contribution to our state in terms of

WINTER 2011– 2012

www.fama.org

products and impress upon government leaders how critical it is for our communities to support those locally owned manufacturers or “Buy Ohio” when making equipment purchases. An important message from the event involved the critical situation of funding for fire equipment from the federal Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program. The AFG program historically was funded at nearly 70 percent of its authorized $1 billion level but has seen regular cuts in recent years with President Obama’s FY2012 requested budget of $250 million. The President’s proposed budget cut is a reduction of nearly 40 percent. Congresswoman Betty Sutton spoke about the importance of

protecting funding levels for the fire safety programs and why we must work to create new jobs within this critical industry. Having experience as a firefighter, Congressman Jim Renacci conveyed his support of the fire industry to the audience which also included local fire chiefs. “I am a big supporter of firefighters,” said the Congressman. He went on to say, “Some of the fire trucks are 15 to 20 years old and they need to be updated. If we are going to send people into burning buildings, they have to have the right equipment necessary to make sure they’re safe.” He closed by committing to always giving back to the communities and first responders and to be their voice as a member in Congress. ◉

governmental affairs

Rosenbauer America Hosts Home Day

and its past funding levels. Schmidt told the group that approximately osenbauer America hosted a Home Day for the staff members 108 departments in South Dakota have received AFG awards since the of South Dakota’s Congressional delegation. Senator Tim inception of the program in 2000. Johnson, Senator John Thune and Congresswoman Kristi Mike Harstad, chairman of the Minnehaha County Chiefs’ Noem’s offices each sent a staff member to the November 22 Home Association, presented a case study of Day event that was held Montrose, South Dakota, a local fire district at the Rosenbauer South whose annual budget was $7,800, trying to Dakota facility. In addition buy a new tanker. “Without the AFG program to the federal offices, there is no way a department like Montrose six South Dakota state could even come close to acquiring a new legislators attended the tanker,” said Chief Harstad. Rosenbauer made meeting. Fire chiefs from arrangements for Montrose’s old tanker and Minnehaha County were new tanker to be on display during the Home also present with the Day event. emergency management Harold Boer, CEO of Rosenbauer America, director. shared with the attendees the current issues On the eve of what the fire service is experiencing with new EPA was supposed to be a emission regulations. Boer explained that recommendation from other industries have been granted exemptions the “Supercommittee,” Mike Harstad, President of the Minnehaha County Fire Chiefs’ Association gives an interview to KSFY (ABC) of from the rules while the fire service, which Rosenbauer promoted Sioux Falls about the impacts AFG has on rural community people’s lives depend on, has to place trucks supporting the funding fire departments. out of service for regeneration. Boer asked the for AFG in FY 2012. Congressional representatives to join the efforts Dan Schmidt, contract of California Congressman Bob Filner urging the EPA to exempt fire administrator at Rosenbauer South Dakota, presented the gathering of apparatus from diesel particulate filters. ◉ elected leaders and local fire chiefs a brief history of the AFG program

www.fama.org

WINTER 2011– 2012

governmental affairs

Canadian Governmental Committee (CGC)

By Richard Boyes

“T

ime flies” is an understatement when it seems like just yesterday we were in Washington at the Fall Meeting and now the Holiday season is upon us. The Fall Meeting continues to exceed expectations and I would like to thank the organizing committee for a job well done. For members that were unable to come in 2011, I would recommend that you place this event on your must-attend list for 2012. The program was excellent and the ability to network and make new friends and renew other friendships make it worth the time and effort to attend. The Canadian Governmental Committee continues to move forward with its agenda as presented at the Fall Meeting.

I am pleased to welcome our newest member, Danny Dufour, and his company, Maxi-Metal, to the CGC. Danny will get the usual new member welcome by being named to a committee! Welcome Danny. The CGC is making progress resuming relations with the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs (CAFC). There have been some very productive meetings with the CAFC executive and I’m hopeful that I will have some positive news to announce in 2012. Work continues on the “Ten Important Facts” survey and I’m looking forward to seeing the results. I’m also hopeful that we will be able to grow our membership during 2012 by showing potential members the value of being a FAMA/FEMSA member. In closing, on behalf of the Canadian Governmental Committee members I would like to wish everyone a Happy Holiday and a very prosperous New Year. ◉

technically speaking…

Axle Weight Regulations By Roger Lackore, Chassis Technical Committee

any in the fire service have lamented for years that apparatus keep getting bigger and heavier. While the larger and heavier trend may be real, when it comes to axle weight ratings, axles on fire apparatus have been heavier than the typical truck axle for the last half-century. This is a fact that is little known, or if known, has garnered little attention. But with the recent renewed focus on the state of the nation’s roads and bridges, all commercial truck weights are under scrutiny and even fire apparatus are getting more attention in certain quarters. Axle Weight Regulations The most common axle weight limit in the U.S. for on-highway trucks is 20,000 lbs on a single axle, and 17,000 lbs if the axle is part of a tandem set (or 34,000 lbs total for a tandem axle). A semi-tractor will typically run a 12,000 lb front axle with one tandem set on the rear of the tractor (34,000 lbs) and another tandem set (34,000 lbs) for the trailer. Add these up and you get the 80,000 lb combination vehicle limit set by the federal interstate

system. Compare this to a typical custom pumper that will push 20,000 lbs on the front axle, and a 27,000 lb single rear axle. Add a ten-man cab, big water, and a generator, and before you can blink, you may be pushing 24,000 lbs on the front and 31,000 lbs on the rear. There are even some apparatus sporting 33,500 lbs. on a single rear. Why So Heavy This need for high axle capacity is intuitive to most in the fire service. Short wheelbases and maneuverability are key to not just carrying the water and equipment, but to snaking it through tight streets and alleys. But to the uninitiated, the absolute necessity of heavy axles is less than obvious. Those state and federal agencies in the business of regulating truck size and weight are quick to point out that two smaller trucks could carry the same amount of water or equipment while staying within the standard limits. Most fire chiefs would shutter at this suggestion, as they are constantly pressured to do more with less manpower, but the twotruck argument falls flat when the aerial apparatus is considered. There is no way to cut a ladder or platform in half, and indeed the weight is essential to keep the device from tipping over.

WINTER 2011– 2012

www.fama.org

State’s Rights So who decides what’s legal in the realm of axle weight regulation? This is one area where the founding fathers could not have anticipated the inefficiency they would foster by leaving sovereignty at the state level. The federal government authority exists over the national network of highways. This network includes the interstate system plus other qualifying federal-aid primary system highways. Beyond the interstate off-ramp, the state’s jurisdiction takes over. Each state has its own set of axle limit regulations with its own set of exemptions. Most are reflective of the specific region, giving preference to the needs of local industries such as agriculture, mining, or logging. Likewise, most states give broad exemptions to fire apparatus on matters of size and weight. Some states have fire-specific regulations that can give chiefs fits when trying to spec out large apparatus. Delivering the Goods Beyond the concern of the local fire chief, apparatus manufacturers and dealers must negotiate the morass of state regulations when delivering apparatus across the country. Sometimes a state statute will exempt apparatus owned by public entities, but will not exempt them on delivery. Apparatus deliveries are forced to travel around those states with tighter regulations, traveling hundreds of extra miles on the way to the destination and ultimately resulting in higher delivery costs to fire departments. In some cases, apparatus must be delivered via flatbed and not traditional drive-away delivery, also bringing greater cost. This dilemma is not unique to the fire industry. Each state has its own regulators for over-size and over-weight loads, each with its own application process, fees, and deadlines. The American Association of State Highway Traffic Officials (AASHTO) has been working for decades to bring more coordination between state regulatory agencies. Increased movement of large loads such as manufactured housing and wind turbines across the country have highlighted the need for consistency in regulation. While the association has worked to coordinate regulations to improve the efficiency of U.S. commerce, progress is slow. With agency budgets getting ever tighter, the future is unclear. IAFC Asks for Assistance All this is a moot point in most communities where fire apparatus are generally exempt from size and weight regulations and few fire trucks are subjected to weight checks. But there are some states where fire chiefs have a tough time specifying an aerial apparatus that will fit their needs and remain weight-legal. It is for this reason that the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) approached FAMA several years back and asked for our help.

www.fama.org

The March on Washington We began by researching state statutes to gain the lay of the land. This involved reading through reams of regulations, documenting the size and weight criteria, and then searching for relevant fire truck exemptions. Since every state writes its own laws, there is not even consistency in knowing where to look. Armed with as much knowledge as we could gather, a small FAMA delegation stormed the gates of Washington and met with the Federal Highway Administration to plead for their leadership in the matter. While FHWA was cordial, they do not have the authority to offer solutions, citing the states’ rights issue and pointing us toward AASHTO. We then attended national AASHTO meetings, presented the fire apparatus dilemma, and asked for their assistance. Again, while most state regulators are attentive, many are more concerned with state infrastructure than with the need for effective fire suppression. In the end it became clear that an education process was required on a state-by-state level. The Education Process The FAMA Chassis Technical Committee and the Governmental Affairs Committee took on the task of developing a white paper to aid in state regulator education. This paper, endorsed by the IAFC, is now complete and available on the FAMA website. The paper outlines the issue in layman’s terms, gives an overview of current fire apparatus sizes and weights, and details our best understanding of the rules and exemptions for each state. Final Solution The ideal solution for the fire service and our industry would be a national fire apparatus size and weight exemption, but even an act of Congress could not grant this. With jurisdiction for roads in the hands of the states, the fire service and our industry must work with individual states to advocate for any changes regarding the treatment of fire apparatus under state weight laws. Therefore our plan, in partnership with the IAFC, is to educate regulators through meetings with regional AASHTO subcommittees, focusing on those states where delivery problems are the most frequent. We also plan to continue to work with federal officials to highlight the unique requirements of fire apparatus. Like most significant issues, there is no quick and easy solution, but through patience and persistence we hope to tip the scale to the fire service’s cause. ◉

WINTER 2011– 2012

letter

A letter from Anirban Basu Sage Policy Group, Inc.

had the distinct honor and pleasure of addressing the FAMA/ FEMSA 2011 Annual Meeting in Arlington, Virginia this past October. My focus was upon the U.S. economy, with special emphasis placed upon the U.S. construction industry, state and local government finances, and the general state of the U.S. economic recovery. My presentation came immediately on the heels of a presentation delivered by His Honor Michael Bell, the Mayor of Toledo, Ohio. In general, public speakers do not like to follow accomplished speakers like Mayor Bell. But his speech was so rousing and so enlightening that I didn’t mind. His speech focused upon, among other things, the tension in state and local governments, including issues related to collective bargaining negotiations. Anirban Basu My presentation also provided detail Chairman & CEO of regarding the impact of still strained state Sage Policy Group, Inc and local government budgets, including upon new construction in public facilities in the education, public safety and other categories. Private construction also continues to be problematic in light of still high vacancy rates in many segments, slow economic growth and disciplined lending standards. However, at least two key segments of the nation’s nonresidential construction industry continue to experience growth: healthcare for demographic reasons and power because of continued high demand for energy. These two segments are positioned to lead the way in 2012. There has also been a recent acceleration in the construction of apartment buildings, another source of opportunity for the fire equipment and apparatus industry. My sincerest hope is that I have the honor of addressing you again. Until then … Very truly yours, Anirban Basu, economist

WELCOME NEW MEMBERs

E.S. Safety Systems, Inc. Rick Denike, President 960 Myrtle Rd. W. Ashburn, Ontario L0B 1A0 Canada Tel: (905) 655-1168 Email: info@es-safetysystems.com Web: www.es-safetysystems.com Manufacturer of spare SCBA cylinder storage systems About E.S. Safety Systems Inc.

E.S. Safety Systems Inc. has been in the Fire Service Industry since 2002 with the intention of increasing firefighter safety and increasing fire ground efficiencies to better assist in the performance of first responders’ jobs. Rick Denike, President of E.S. Safety Systems remarked, “I’m extremely proud to be a Professional Firefighter and member of the International Association of Firefighters through local 2036 Whitby, Ontario, Canada. As a firefighter out there every day, the one thing that concerned me the most was the manner in which we handled our spare SCBA cylinders.” Denike came to the fire service from a background in the propane gas industry. He’s a multi-certificate holder with TSSA and the Ontario Propane Association. Denike felt that practices needed to be addressed in the transporting of dangerous goods and overseeing the safe handling and storage of pressure vessels. That emerged into E.S. Safety’s first product--the SAFE”T”SYSTEM holder/ carrier and securing system. Future plans include the introduction of other innovative products in keeping with the company’s mission statement: To improve firefighter efficiency, to increase firefighters’ personal safety and ultimately to improve firefighters’ odds of a positive conclusion to each and every emergency incident.

MaxxForce Engines Marc White, Sales Manager 10400 W. North Avenue Melrose Park, IL 60160 Tel: (630) 800-8118 Email: marc.white@navistar.com Web: www.maxxforce.com Manufacturer of diesel engines for custom fire apparatus About MaxxForce

MaxxForce® diesel engines by Navistar provide power for some of the toughest industries and demanding applications in the world. We have created a diversity of product lines including generator engines, industrial engines, and defense engines to keep up with the variety of your needs. For this reason, MaxxForce has organized our diesel engine technology into industry segments to better help you find the right solution for your job. MaxxForce diesel engines are the signature power plant for a wide variety of international brand truck applications in nearly every vehicle class in North America. With Navistar’s MaxxForce engines — built for performance, reliability, durability and fuel economy — your vehicles and equipment will be ‘Always Performing.’

WINTER 2011– 2012

www.fama.org

show report card

Trade Show Report Card Update By Summer Johnston and Ken Nielsen (Paratech)

he 2011 trade show season has flown by. We have worked very hard to give the fire service an unforgettable experience by providing cutting edge technology on the exhibition floor plus hands-on training events, workshops and breakout sessions. All events have gathered students, trainers, decision-makers, manufacturers and suppliers to learn and network in the efforts of saving lives. Congratulations to all FAMA/FEMSA members on a successful year! Remember that we have changed the format of the Trade Show Report Card Update to provide answers from trade show organizers about the most frequent comments and complaints collected from the Trade Show Survey. Below you will find responses from Firehouse Expo - Baltimore, MD and Fire-Rescue International trade show representatives – Atlanta, GA. We hope you find this information useful. The Trade Show Committee is constantly trying to find ways to bring extra value to your FAMA membership by providing insight and data for this large expense item. If you have any suggestions about how to make this report better, please contact FAMA committee co-chair Brian Cassell.

2011 Attendence Results

# Of Exhibitors

# Of Attendees

# Of Femsa/ Fama Members

305

6,801

840

28,718

165

New York Chiefs-Fire 2011

346

13,996

Firehouse Expo

326

13,998

538

8,904

127

Firehouse World Fdic

(Fire Department Instructors Conference)

Fri

(Fire-Rescue International)

www.fama.org

FIREHOUSE EXPO Firehouse Expo was the first fire service trade show to introduce a mobile app which gives attendees a mobile tool to make their schedule, search exhibitors, view the exhibition map, events, speakers and more. Listed below are comments about the issues raised in the 2011 Trade Show Survey. As Cygnus continues 2012 strategy planning, the comments provided are primary issues, among others, that will be addressed in 2012 events. Responses are from Ed Nichols, Director of Events at Cygnus Public Safety & Security: CommentS: Process for signing up for next year’s show is lousy.

We could do without the on-site booth re-booking requirement. Exhibitors should not have to sign contracts at show site. Response: “We agree completely that that idea of taking people out

of their booth during show hours is an antiquated practice that we have already set the wheels in motion to change. Balancing the means to allow the exhibitors that would like to select space to do so, in an equitable manner, with the fact that the fire-service trade show season keeps people away from their office – and out of contact with us – for a large amount of time during the year, we’ve decided to conduct space selection electronically before the opening of the show. Approximately 2 weeks prior to the show, all exhibitors will be allowed to select their space from the convenience of their own desk, by priority point, via the Firehouse website. Those that have not made their decision to exhibit by that time will be able to visit the Firehouse booth anytime throughout the show to secure space. For those that have not made their decision by the end of the show, we will hold space selection rates for a period of time post-show for them.” Comments: Should be a 2-day show.

Lousy traffic first day. Show promoters should consider reducing the show to two eight-hour days. Response: “We’ve engaged a very active exhibitor and attendee

advisory board designed to help us in the steering of our strategies this year. The challenge that we are faced with is manufacturers wanting a

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show report card

shorter event and attendees telling us they are not getting enough time on the floor. We can do a better job of coordinating our educational offerings that will result in less overlap and more uninterrupted access to the show floor for attendees. We’ll work with both our exhibitor and attendee boards to determine if fewer days allow the attendees the access that they need.” FRI (FIRE-RESCUE INTERNATIONAL) This year’s show presented new opportunities as some first-time programs were rolled out to address feedback we heard in 2010. It also brought some other new enhancements including the mobile app (with an electronic expo map, electronic profile and downloadable handouts), VIP golf cart tours, Expo tours by topic, Company Office Leadership Symposium lunch in the Expo, and sessions on the show floor. The IAFC is excited about many new programs and plans for FRI 2012. Look for more details on these in the next newsletter as plans for what’s to come are unveiled. Responses are from Kate Ruhe, Marketing Manager at IAFC.

suggestion is to promote the ability to “value shop” or compare products at these national shows to hopefully draw in more attendees. Response: “It is clear that the dynamics of trade shows are changing

and FRI continues to evolve to address these changes. In 2011, a large move was made by shifting the general sessions to Friday and Saturday. This provided exhibitors with more unopposed exhibit hours and a more consistent flow of expo traffic across the two days.” ◉

Comments: Very slow traffic.

Poor traffic in exhibit hall. Too many other things going on during show. Saturday is always slow. Attendees are all heading out. Traffic was less than we had hoped for.

in memoriam

Response: “In response to the FEMSA report card showing that a

few companies were disappointed in floor traffic, the feedback is appreciated and steps are being taken to increase expo traffic on the floor. The IAFC remains committed to the primary mission of maximizing opportunities to match buyers and sellers for profitable long-term relationships.” Comments: This show used to be a 3-day show. Out of 3 days

you’d get 2 good days. Now that it’s a 2-day show, we only get 1 good day. They need to schedule seminars so they don’t compete with exhibitors or make it a one day show. The show costs are high when considering overall traffic flow... if the flow of traffic was consistent with high quality attendees, the costs would be reasonable. For the total cost, hours are too short. Funding for out-of-state shows/travel is decreasing for many of the departments across the United States. One

Hal Bruno, Chairman Emeritus of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and Former ABC News Political Director has died.

or more than 60 years, Hal Bruno served as an active member of the fire service community, giving selflessly as a dedicated volunteer firefighter, advocate, commentator and leader. He is renowned for his commitment to fire safety initiatives and his compassion for the members of the fire service and their families. Bruno was appointed chairman of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation in 1999, a distinction he held until his retirement in 2008. He died on November 8, 2011 at age 83.

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vulnerability assessment project

The Vulnerability Assessment Project Needs Your Input Help Us Create A Cutting-Edge Tool For First Responder Safety Thanks to Ron Siaricki, 2011 Annual Conference presenter, who provided this summary and call to action.

he National Fallen Firefighters Foundation is committed to educating and training members of the fire service about the importance of reducing unnecessary risks and making safety its priority. But training and education are just initial components of the national effort to reduce line of duty deaths and injuries. A few years ago, Chief Kelvin Cochran, a former US Fire Administrator and current Chief of Atlanta Fire and Rescue Department, suggested that in addition to education and training, fire departments need a comprehensive tool to assess their risks and the quality of their resources. As he explained it, knowing where the gaps are and prioritizing issues are vital to protecting firefighters. The Foundation is working with Chief Cochran and leading fire service stakeholders to spearhead the new Vulnerability Assessment Project (VAP). The goal is to create a web-based tool that department chiefs can use to evaluate their areas of risk associated with line-ofduty deaths and injuries. By answering a series of questions about different issues within their department, the user will receive a vulnerability ranking and corrective recommendations, including a list of resources and sample protocols. Funding for the first four years of the VAP is being provided by Honeywell Fire Systems with additional support from Federal grants. The concept for a vulnerability assessment has received widespread support throughout the fire service. It is recognized as an invaluable tool for reducing a department’s risk of firefighter near-misses, injuries and line of duty deaths. Both the Center for Public Safety Excellence and the United States Conference of Mayors have issued resolutions of support for the VAP and intend to adopt it as part of their standards upon completion. Phase I of this project has recently concluded. It was focused on conducting a comprehensive review of available materials relevant to these issues. Of the 3,373 peer-reviewed academic journal articles reviewed, 509 were selected with potential VAP applicability from 78 journals. Furthermore, 513 relevant NIOSH reports, 24 NFPA reports and 31 USFA reports were analyzed and 137 doctoral dissertations, and theses indexed by the National Fire Academy (NFA) Learning Resource Center (LRC) were examined.

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In addition to an audit of written material, consultants and researchers have interviewed and attended meetings of the Society for Risk Analysis (SRA), the Public Entity Risk Institute (PERI), and the Public Risk Management Association (PRIMA). Over the past year, six meetings have been held—four with the core planning team and two with the VAP Fire Service Partners. The Partners represent virtually every major fire service organization. In addition to the fire service groups, stakeholders from various enterprises are consulted regularly—particularly from other safetyoriented organizations and the insurance industry. VAP-Phase I also included the development of Contributing Risk Factors for Fire Departments. After departments complete their vulnerability inventory, they will receive a report that identifies their risks and measures for addressing them through: • Identifying education and training • Prioritizing needed changes • Developing corrective actions • Re-prioritizing required investments • F ramed public policy discussion within departments and with stakeholders As Phase II begins, surveys and research will be conducted with stakeholders who represent the broad spectrum of the U.S. fire service, including members of FAMA and FEMSA. Input is needed from within the manufacturing industry that can be used to formulate questions that relate specifically to all types of equipment, including usability and safety. Quite simply, your feedback is vital to the success of this phase. To help spur your thinking, the following are examples of questions submitted during the recent annual FEMSA/FAMA conference: • Does your department have a program in place to address the selection, inspection and maintenance of protective clothing and equipment? • Are your members trained in the proper use of, and limitations of, their protective clothing and equipment? More questions like these are needed to create sound research questions and ultimately garner critical information from departments around the country. Your collaboration in this ground-breaking project will significantly improve the safety and effectiveness of our nation’s emergency response systems. As a result, you will have knowledge

WINTER 2011– 2012

vulnerability assessment project

about modifications that may be needed to enhance equipment used by your customers. The research and information sharing of Phase II will continue through the first quarter of 2012. Once the questionnaires are developed, they will be vetted with the stakeholders then pilottested with a representative sample of potential end-users. Based on these results, a developer will be selected to create the architecture, technologies, designs and content for the software and implement the applications. The goal is to launch the program in early 2013.

Providing departments with this cutting-edge tool that helps identify deficiencies will decrease the probability of any firefighter or EMS personnel being injured, or worse, on the job. As leaders in the fire service manufacturing industry, your input at this stage of planning and research and support of this endeavor is invaluable. Please send questions or comments for Phase II of the Vulnerability Assessment Project to Chief Ron Siarnicki at rsiarnicki@firehero.org or JoEllen Kelly at amst85@comcast.net. ◉

U.S. Fire Administrator

Senate Confirms Chief Ernest Mitchell as U.S. Fire Administrator

he U.S. Senate has approved the nomination of Chief Ernest Mitchell, Jr. to be the next United States Fire Administrator (USFA). Chief Mitchell was nominated by President Obama on August 2, 2011. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Craig Fugate praised the Senate for confirming Chief Mitchell Jr. USFA, a component of FEMA and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), is the lead federal entity responsible for providing support to America’s fire departments and fire services organizations. “With decades of experience fighting fires and leading fire service organizations, Chief Mitchell will be a great addition to our team at FEMA and a tremendous asset to firefighters and first responders around the country,” said Fugate. “As with our other senior leaders at FEMA, he comes from a state and local background, which means he understands the kind of support our nation’s fire departments and fire service organizations need. He will be a tireless advocate for firefighters and the communities they serve and I look forward to working with him.” Chief Mitchell has over 30 years of experience in the fire service including 1998 to 2004 when he served as Fire Chief and Assistant

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Director of Disaster Emergency Services for the city of Pasadena, California Fire Department. He was Fire Chief and Deputy City Manager of Monrovia, California from 1991 to 1998. Chief Mitchell served as IAFC president in 20032004 and currently serves on the International Association of Fire Fighters Hazardous Materials Advisory Board and the International Fire Service Training Association Executive Board. Mr. Mitchell holds an A.S. in fire science from Long Beach City College, a B.P.A. from the University of San Francisco and an M.P.A. from California State University at Northridge. ◉

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CFSI internship program

Robert J. Barraclough Internship Program

eloved longtime FAMA member and past president Bob Barraclough was a vocal and persuasive proponent of the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI) Internship Program. More than 15 years ago he encouraged FAMA’s participation in this professional development endeavor. And since then, FAMA made an annual $5K contribution. With the passing of Bob in 2011, CFSI has named the internship in his memory. We encourage FAMA members to individually support this worthy program. From the newly published CFSI Internship Program summary: The Robert J. Barraclough Internship Program will provide increased opportunities for aspiring young professionals to participate in our internship program. They will perform a number of duties that will enhance their understanding of how laws are made and policies and programs are implemented. They will participate in meetings with fire service leaders and attend congressional hearings. They will also travel to trade shows to learn about the fire service industry and interact with trade show attendees. At the completion of their journeys, these interns will have benefited from a unique experience that will advance their professional careers in a number of directions – whether in public safety or in government policy.

Dinner Program at the annual National Fire and Emergency Services Dinner. Our nation’s fire and emergency services face many challenges ahead. To be prepared, we must make sure that the next generation of leaders is ready to step forward and answer the call. Help us in preparing tomorrow’s leaders who can make a difference for our first responders in Washington, DC. Leader, Innovator, Educator For 15 years, Bob Barraclough served on the CFSI Board of Directors providing leadership and support to help CFSI become a major force for the fire service in Washington, DC. Highly respected among his peers, Barraclough served as CFSI’s primary liaison to the fire service industry, advocating to industry leaders the importance of a strong working relationship between the Institute and the associations that represent the interests of the fire service industry – most notably the Fire Apparatus Manufacturers’ Association and the Fire and Emergency Manufacturers and Services Association. ◉

Thanks to

Pledge Your Support If you represent a company that provides a service or product to the fire and emergency services, please consider a $1,000 contribution to the Robert J. Barraclough Internship Program. Your $1,000 contribution will produce a long-term benefit to the mission of CFSI and the fire service in general. Each intern will gain a tremendous amount of knowledge on a broad spectrum of federal issues – knowledge about public safety that they will carry with them and use to the advantage of public safety. For each year of support, sponsors of the Robert J. Barraclough Internship Program will receive • Recognition on the CFSI website under a forthcoming internship program section. • Acknowledgement in the National Fire and Emergency Services

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Lyle Hoyt Senior Vice President

Eric Schlett Vice President —Fire Group

The FAMA Board and Membership gratefully acknowledge the generosity of Fire Engineering management and staff for the design and printing of the Flyer.

firefighter grants

What’s New with the Assistance to Firefighters Grants? by David Gudinas, Section Chief, Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program, Department of Homeland Security

hen the fiscal year 2011 application period closed on September 23, 2011, the Assistance to Firefighters Grants program entered its 10th year of evaluating grant applications and awarding funds to provide basic equipment and training to community fire departments and nonaffiliated emergency medical service (EMS) providers. The FY 2011 AFG Program Process and Awards The U.S. Congress authorized AFG to provide awards totaling $404 million for fire operations and safety and emergency vehicles during FY 2011. During the application period, which was held August 15 to September 23, 2011, applicants submitted approximately 16,495 requests for funding, totaling nearly $3 billion in federal funds. The AFG plans to begin announcing FY 2011 awards in December and will continue announcements into 2012 until all AFG funds have been awarded. All applicants will be notified of the decision made on their application regardless of whether they will receive an award. Given the available funding, we anticipate making approximately 2,800 awards from the FY 2011 AFG funds. To make it easier for applicants to apply, a number of changes were made in FY 2011: • The AFG Program Guidance and Application Kit was shortened and divided into two sections with the first section describing the program funding priorities. The information and format were simplified to make it easier for applicants to find and identify the grant program’s highest priorities for funding. • Each project activity in the application was scored separately based on its own merits provided it had met minimum requirement for peer review. • The method for calculating the total application score was changed so that 50 percent of each submission’s score now came from the application’s electronic pre-score. The other 50 percent came from the average of the Peer Review panelists’ scores for all projects in the application. The AFG partnered with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) by providing applicants with free access for a limited time to the applicable NFPA standards. Streamlined AFG Awards Process

The AFG streamlined the awards process in FY 2011 so that awards can be made quickly and ensure that grant-funded operations and safety equipment and services are delivered to firefighters and nonaffiliated EMS provides as soon as possible. For example, we now will require that grantees proactively accept or decline their awards within 30 days of the date of award notification. On the surface this would appear to cause delays in making awards rather than shorten the time required. However, AFG awardees have never been required to formally accept or decline their awards; their formal acceptance of an award was made when they began to draw down grant funds. By requiring grantees to proactively accept or decline their awards within a specific timeframe, the AFG will be able to identify applicants that may no longer need their grant funds. This will free up funds for award to the applicants next in line for grants according to application scores. This will help to ensure that the funds are awarded as swiftly as possible because all grant funds must be obligated by September 30, 2012. Another point of the awards process to be streamlined is the technical review of applications conducted by FEMA grants management specialists. In the past, grants management specialists would send a brief questionnaire to potential awardees prior to final award decisions being made. This preliminary questionnaire has been eliminated from the award process, and grants management specialists only contact potential awardees if they require specific information to complete their technical reviews. Grants Programs Scheduled for 2011–2012 The application period for FY 2011 Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grants program currently is scheduled to open in early January and run into early February 2012. Congress authorized $404 million in grants for FY 2011 SAFER. The FY 2011 Fire Prevention and Safety Grants program will accept applications in early spring of 2012, with $35 million in grants being made available. The AFG’s Criteria Development Panel met in October to review and discuss updates to the eligibility and award criteria for the FY 2012 AFG Program. The new AFG program Guidance and Application Kit for FY 2012 is now being developed and will reflect the Panel’s recommendations. Members of the Criteria Development panel represent nine major U.S. fire service organizations: •C ongressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI)

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• • • • • • • •

International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI) International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) International Society of Fire Service Instructors (ISFSI) National Association of State Fire Marshals (NASFM) National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) North American Fire Training Directors (NAFTD)

Tools to Help Applicants and Grantees The AFG always has provided tools to help fire departments and nonaffiliated EMS organizations understand the AFG program and financial requirements and to complete their funding applications. This year we also developed webinars and videos to help awardees,

vendors, and the public in general further understand the AFG and the grant requirements. One video currently in production focuses on procurement integrity for grantees and vendors. It identifies the key responsibilities of grantees and the federal laws that they must follow related to procuring goods and services to be paid with AFG funds. The video addresses the need for detailed recordkeeping and documentation of procurement procedures, open competition in procurement, and the importance of avoiding even the appearance of conflict of interest. Vendors also may find the video helpful in understanding the requirements and restrictions placed on federal grantees. For more information about the AFG and its funding programs, visit the AFG website at http://www.fema.gov/firegrants. ◉

u.s. economy

Making It In America by Jerry Jasinowski

ithout question, the rise of China has been a major factor in our nation’s loss of manufacturing jobs, and much of that has been magnified by China’s unfair trade practices, most notably its currency manipulation. But there is growing evidence that China’s challenge to U.S. manufacturing has peaked, and its competitive advantage is in decline. A recent report from the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) offers persuasive evidence that the tide is now moving against China as its competitive advantage erodes. The cost of producing goods in China is rising across the board – wages, raw materials, industrial real estate, energy and transportation. Also, the citizens of China are demanding more investment in environmental and safety issues, which inevitably affects production costs. This rise in costs is reflected in the high 7 percent inflation rate in China. At the same time, U.S. manufacturing, despite its troubles and the loss of jobs, has become more competitive. In recent years, we have registered the strongest productivity growth in the industrial world, and our export sector – mainly manufacturing – has been growing steadily. In fact, the value of U.S. manufacturing increased by one third to $1.65 trillion from 1997 to 2008, before the onset of the recession, according to BCG. The reality is — we are already competing effectively with China, and the tide is turning in our favor.

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The BCG analysis suggests that within five years, the total cost of production for many products will be only about 10-15 percent less in Chinese coastal cities than in some parts of the U.S. “Factor in shipping, inventory costs, and other considerations, and – for many goods destined for the North American market – the cost gap between sourcing in China and manufacturing in the U.S. will be minimal,” BCG said. When you factor in the time required to ship goods from China, difficulties posed by the language barrier and the absence of an independent legal system in China, a growing number of U.S. firms find it more convenient and less stressful to just buy American. The BCG analysis rattled off a list of companies that are moving production back to the U.S. from China – NCR, The Coleman Company, Ford Motor Company, Sleek Audio, Peerless Industries, and Outdoor Greatroom Company. I could add several more names to the list, including General Electric. Just last week, I heard GE CEO Jeffrey Immelt say that outsourcing has peaked and GE will hencefoward be focusing on creating more jobs in the U.S. For some time, I have been talking about a resurgence in U.S. manu facturing. This BCG report, and the aggressive action by a diverse array of U.S. manufacturing companies, confirms that resurgence, and suggests it may be even stronger and broader-based than most people realize. Jerry Jasinowski, an economist and author, served as President of the National Association of Manufacturers for 14 years and later The Manufacturing Institute. Jerry is available for speaking engagements. ◉

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spring annual meeting

FAMA is pleased to present:

The

2012 Spring Meeting!

Pursuant to Section 5.3 of the bylaws of the Fire Apparatus Manufacturers’ Association (FAMA), notice is hereby given that a meeting of the FAMA membership will be held:

March 31 – April 3, 2012 Marriott Harbor Beach Hotel Ft. Lauderdale, Florida

hanks to the generosity of our Corporate Meeting Sponsor Fire Engineering / FDIC. In addition to the warm weather break for most of us in the frigid

North, the meeting will focus on: Doing Business in the “NEW NORMAL” It is increasingly clear that the current downturn is fundamentally different from recessions of recent decades. We are experiencing not merely another turn of the business cycle, but a restructuring of the economic order. The Spring Meeting will focus on defining the “New Normal” with speakers addressing how to not only survive, but thrive.

Watch for e-mails with details on these important presentations. REGISTRATION: on-line at www.fama.org – click the spring meeting banner on the home page. (Direct link: www.fama.org/meetingReg) REGISTRATION DEADLINE: February 20, 2012 ➢ Committee Meetings – Saturday, March 31st , is reserved for committees to meet. If you are on a committee, your chairperson will be in touch to schedule a time and meeting location. If you are interested in joining a committee, email Karen … info@fama.org. ➢ Welcome Reception – Join us Saturday evening, March 31st, for a Welcome Reception … a great opportunity to meet new friends and greet old acquaintances.

Registration deadline: February 20, 2012

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➢ Board Meeting – The Board of Directors will meet Sunday, April 1st at 7:30 a.m. ➢ Committee Reports to the Board – Committee Chairs will meet with the Board beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, April 1st (no fooling!). Chairs will be sent a schedule of meeting times. ➢ Membership Meetings – Monday and Tuesday, April 2nd and 3rd, from 7:30a.m. to noon. [Details will follow as they are confirmed.] ➢ FAMA Awards Dinner – Monday evening, April 2nd at 7:00 p.m. preceded by a reception at 6:00 p.m. ➢ Dress Code - Meetings are casual (shorts are acceptable). Dinner is business casual (no shorts).

may be shared with another member company – see options below. (Contact Karen at info@fama.org.) ➢ Saturday Welcome Reception - $5,000 (shared by 2 companies: $2,500 ea.; shared by 3 companies: $1,700 ea.) ➢ Spouses Program - $2,000 (shared by 2 companies: $1,000 ea.) ➢ Business Speaker - $2,500 (shared by 2 companies: $1,250 ea.) ➢ Monday Coffee Break - $2,000 (shared by 2 companies: $1,000 ea.) ➢ Monday Reception (preceding banquet) - $5,000 (shared by 2 companies: $2,500 ea.; shared by 3 companies: $1,700 ea.) ➢ Monday Dinner Open Bar - $2,500 (shared by 2 companies: $1,250 ea.) ➢ Tuesday Coffee Break - $2,000 (shared by 2 companies: $1,000 ea.)

Optional Activities : ➢ Annual Golf Tournament – Paul Darley, Tournament Director Sunday, April 1st, 1:00 p.m. Start – Jacaranda Golf Club (West Course), Plantation, FL. $75.00 per golfer to be paid at time of meeting registration (includes greens fees, cart fees, unlimited range balls, customized scorecards, customized cart signs, closest to the pin/long drive setup, access to practice area). Club rentals available $59 p/set – top brand – payment by credit card to golf course ➢ Catamaran Cruise on the Caribbean Spirit (3 hours) exclusive to FAMA members + guests. Monday, April 2nd, 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. $85.00 per person to be paid at time of meeting registration (100 person max – first come, first served). Boat dock is a 10-min. walk from the hotel. Itinerary options include inland waterway tour, swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing

Sponsor Benefits

Sponsorship Opportunities The following sponsorship opportunities are available to all members on a first-come, first-served basis. Keep in mind that any sponsorship

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• F ormal recognition in meeting materials and from podium each day •O pportunity to place signage/promotional materials during your sponsored event* •E xposure to the FAMA membership •B uild new relationships with potential customers *Sponsors will be recognized from the podium and will be allowed to place banners, literature and promotional materials on the table provided during the sponsored event. Promotional materials must be approved, in advance, by FAMA.

Periodic updates will be e-mailed to you providing details on the business meetings, a broader interactive member session, as well as other meeting events and hotel/area attractions. On-line Registration is now available at www.fama.org – click on the 2012 Spring Meeting banner on the home page. If you do not receive an electronic confirmation within 48 business hours of submitting your on-line registration, contact Bob Grimaldi directly at bobg@rometravel.com. Your confirmation will include a receipt

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spring annual meeting

for your requested booking. In addition, an e-mail broadcast listing registered attendees will be sent periodically. If you registered and do not see your name on the list, contact Bob immediately. These procedures will ensure that everyone is accounted for. All members are encouraged to book hotel rooms through the FAMA room block (see on-line registration). Our group is guaranteed the best available rate for the dates of our stay at the hotel – $279++. To accommodate all member requests and fulfill our room block commitment, registration deadline has been set for February 20th. At that time we must advise the hotel how many sleeping rooms will be required each night of our meeting events. Meeting Fees, Reservation, Cancellation and Refund Policies MEETING FEES: $250 per member (see website for guest fee information). No “a la carte” meeting fee schedules are available to members, spouses and/or guests with the exception of children under 11 years of age. Meeting fees may be modified as necessary by the Board on notice to the membership. RESERVATION POLICY: The association negotiates a special room rate each year. After the date the room block closes, the association rate might not be available and attendees may have to pay the full rack rate. A fixed number of rooms are set aside based on anticipated attendance. Reservations are made on a first-come, first-served basis. If the host hotel sells out, the association will make reservations for you at a hotel nearby, where possible.

the room block closes (Feb. 20, 2012), there is a minimum onenight cancellation fee. Also, if you check out prior to your original reservation departure date, you will be charged a minimum one-night cancellation fee. REFUND POLICY: Annual membership meeting fees will not be refunded, but will be credited toward the next annual membership meeting. Members are reminded that FAMA policies prohibit direct selling during meeting events and in common areas of the hotel where members socialize and network. If you have any questions, feel free to contact your meeting planners directly or the FAMA office, info@fama.org; Tel: 781-334-2911. We look forward to seeing you in March in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Sincerely, FAMA Meeting Planning Committee: John Swanson, Chair; jswanson@kochek.com Mark Albright, VChair; Albright@4guysfire.com Harold Boer, 2012 VP/Board Liaison; haboer@rosenbaueramerica.com Ed Dobbs; ejdobbs@spartanchassis.com Damon Lewis; dllewis@code3pse.com Dan Reese; danr@alexisfire.com Geary Roberts; geroberts@waterousco.com Bob Grimaldi, Meeting Travel Planner; bobg@rometravel.com Karen Burnham; info@fama.org

member news

AWG Fittings announces the acquisition of Lancier Rescue Systems worldwide. Lancier manufactures a complete line of hydraulic rescue tools. Lancier has been in business for over 30 years, focusing on high quality rescue systems. The warehousing and service of Lancier products for the North American market will be moved to the new AWG facility located in Walpole, MA. AWG is initiating plans for increased stock to support our dealers and end users. Manufacturing of all Lancier products is moving to the AWG home office located in Giengen, Germany. Terry Bradner has accepted the offer to become Director of Sales

CANCELLATION POLICY: If you cancel a reservation after the date

– Rescue Tool Division covering Mexico, United States, and Canada. Terry has 20 years of experience in the rescue tool industry and 10 years with Lancier. Terry will be based out of Wawaka, IN. Crimson Fire Strengthens Distribution Network in Southeast U.S. Public Safety Solutions Group has joined the Crimson Fire, Inc. distribution network as a dealer. The company will provide sales, service and parts for Crimson Fire Star, Legend and Classic Series fire apparatus in Georgia and Florida. Led by Jim Schwaller and Jeff Haase, Public Safety Solutions Group

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member news

operates in the municipal, airport, industrial and private sectors. Schwaller and Haase served as President and Vice President of E-One respectively between 1987 and 2001. Public Safety Solutions Group, a division of Environmental Products, will provide emergency response vehicle sales, parts and service, and will focus on developing key customer relationships, introducing a new lease plan, and staffing and training their employees to serve the new product line. The company has three parts and service locations in Atlanta, Georgia, as well as Pembroke Park and Winter Garden, Florida, and offers mobile service capabilities. The company will be offering customers a Total Cost of Ownership Lease Program that provides service, and multiple years of equal payments rather than a one lump sum payment as in the case of a purchase. Repair parts packages, service contracts, and service and operator training will also be offered. Eagle Compressors Appoints New Officers Eagle Compressors, Inc., manufacturers of high pressure breathing air systems and components designed to refill SCBA and SCUBA cylinders, announced today the appointment of the following key corporate officers: David G. Rutterman, former Sales Manager, has been promoted to Vice-President, Sales & Marketing. In addition to leading the sales force, in his new position David will also be responsible for all aspects of marketing the Company’s products and, as an officer of the corporation, direct and approve all external communications. George E. Marple, former Engineering Manager, has been promoted to Vice-President, Engineering David G. Rutterman & Technical Services. George will continue to manage the Engineering Department operations and now also oversee and direct all technical support to other key departments including Product Testing, Production & Customer Service Technical Support. As an officer of the corporation, he will also be responsible

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for compliance with product specifications, plant safety and environmental protection laws. Anthony M. Gonzalez, President of Eagle Compressors, Inc. made the following comments on the occasion of the announcements: “The promotions of Dave and George accentuate the critical contributions these experienced individuals have made, and will continue to make, to the success of our Company. Their appointments are also an expression of my overwhelming respect for their George E. Marple talents, character and, most importantly, for the difference they have made in improving the well-being and safety of our firefighters and other users of this product class worldwide. Today, I could not be prouder of our personal friendship which has spanned the last 25 years.” Elkhart, IN – Elkhart Brass

announced Tomas Saavedra has accepted the position of Vice President of International Sales reporting to Don Sjolin, Chief Operating Officer. Saavedra will lead the development and growth of the company’s international sales. “The addition of Tomas to our executive leadership team is a positive contribution to Elkhart’s continued commitment to our customers and our ability to provide our industries smart solutions,” says Don Sjolin. Tomas joins Elkhart Brass with 20 years of international and domestic sales management and marketing experience. His corporate experience will guide the continued growth and success of Elkhart’s international business. Tomas has travelled extensively throughout the Middle-East, Europe, Central America, and has lived in South America. Most recently, Tomas worked for German based Rittal Corporation out of Urbana, Ohio, where he served as National Manager. Tomas’ other experience is within the electrical and plumbing industries, including Pomona & Fluke Corporation where he served as National Business & Account Manager from 2003-2008. He also spent time with Greenlee as a Senior Product Manager from 2000-2003 and was involved with storage, bending & pulling products. He holds an MBA degree in International Business and General Management from the University of Chicago and a B.A. degree in Marketing from the University of Notre Dame.

WINTER 2011– 2012

member news

Pro Poly is pleased to announce its very own amateur golf champion, Daniel Owen. Daniel recently won the Marion County Florida amateur golf title, beating out stiff competition from a wide field of great golfers. Daniel is a member of Pro Poly’s executive team and is no stranger to golf championships as he won the State of Florida’s amateur golf title in 1998. In addition to holding down the operations at Pro Poly and keeping his golf game in excellent condition, he also serves his community as President of the Ocala City Council. Nice job Daniel! Daniel Owen After more than 10 years of hands-on manufacturing experience at Pro Poly, Cyndy Durbin has joined the customer service team and will be helping customers primarily from Pro Poly’s Ocala, Florida office. Cyndy Durbin PyroLance Hires Senior VP Jim Weigle To support growing demand for its core firefighting technology, PyroLance LLC has hired Jim Weigle as Senior VP Business Development. In his new role, Mr. Weigle will head up sales and lead the expansion of the company’s domestic and international distribution network. “We’re excited to bring someone of Jim’s caliber to our organization,” said Kevin Spencer, CEO and Founder of PyroLance. “Jim brings a lifetime of firefighting knowledge to our customer base and a keen understanding of the unique challenges of firefighting in the 21st Century.” Since joining the fire department as a junior member as a teenager, Jim Weigle has spent more than 45 years in the industry as firefighter, consultant and executive. Prior to joining PyroLance, Weigle led business development and international sales with FoamPro and served as a founding partner and VP of Marketing for Classic Fire. He holds an AS degree in Fire Protection Technology from Oklahoma State University, a BS in Fire Protection Engineering from the University of Maryland and an MBA from the University of Florida. Weigle will be responsible for sales and marketing efforts as

PyroLance moves to grow its product portfolio and rapidly expand its domestic and international client base. “We are thrilled to have Jim’s valuable international expertise,” said Bill Ballantyne, President and COO at PyroLance. Setcom Acquires Piratecom, Adds Products for Marine Vessels Setcom™ Corporation, a manufacturer of intercom systems and headsets for public safety vehicles and high-noise industrial environments has acquired Piratecom, a producer of communications systems for marine vessels. This acquisition is a significant step for Setcom and accelerates its growth in the specialty vehicle communications niches which include fire apparatus, police motorcycles, airport rescue firefighting trucks, and command vehicles. The combination of Setcom and Piratecom will create one of the primary manufacturers of public safety and industrial communications accessories. Piratecom’s differentiated and disruptive marine product line adds a critical element to Setcom’s product offerings. Waterous Announces New Pumps Product Manager

and New Government Sales Manager Waterous, has announced the appointment of Matt Pace as Product Manager - Pumps. For the past eight years, Matt owned and operated Montana Fire Works which specialized in the manufacturer of specialty CAFSbased vehicles. Prior to Montana Fire Works, Matt spent over 6 years as an Operations Manager for Rosenbauer. Matt will be responsible for the pump module segment as well as other specified pump development projects. Steve Toren, Director of Sales and Matt Pace Marketing for the USA & Canada, states, “Matt is a welcomed asset. He brings a wealth of information and expertise to Waterous.” Waterous also announced that Randy Fuss is their new Government Sales Manager. Randy, a member of the National Guard Bravo Company 231st for

WINTER 2011– 2012

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the past 16 years, currently holds the title of Company Executive Officer. Randy also spent 5 years as the Government Sales Manager with Global Electric Motorcars out of Fargo, North Dakota. He also was a Financial Representative for Northwestern Mutual Finance Network for 7 years. Randy holds a BS Degree in Business Administration and a

Randy Fuss

Master of Science in Strategic Leadership. Randy will be responsible for handling all aspects of dealings with government agencies such as the Department of Defense, General Services Administration, Bureau of Land Management and the Forestry Service. “With Randy’s extensive military service and background in Government Sales, he will be a great asset to Waterous,” said Steve Toren. ◉

FAMA BOARD OF DIRECTORS President

Greg Kozey Kochek Company, Inc. 75 Highland Drive Putnam, CT 06260 Tel: (860) 963-3377; Cell: (860) 933-0176 Fax: (800) 772-0255; Email: gkozey@yahoo.com

Vice President

Harold Boer Rosenbauer America, LLC 100 Third Street Lyons, SD 57041 Tel: (605) 543-5591; Cell: (605) 321-9358 Fax: (605) 543-5593 Email: haboer@rosenbaueramerica.com

Secretary

Mike Power Pierce Manufacturing, Inc. 2600 American Dr., PO Box 2017 Appleton, WI 54912-2017 Tel: (920) 832-3519; Cell: (703) 405-5747 Fax: (920) 832-3450 Email: mpower@piercemfg.com

Past President

Grady North Dallas, TX Cell: (817) 798-0944 Email: gradynorth@sbcglobal.net

Sr. Director-at-Large

Treasurer

Bruce Whitehouse AMDOR, Inc. 3435 South Service Road Burlington, ON L7N 3W6 Canada Tel: (905) 333-6745; Cell: (905) 467-8905 Fax: (905) 333-8975; Email: bruce@amdor.com

Steve Toren Waterous Company 125 Hardman Ave. So. South St. Paul, MN 55075-2456 Tel: (651) 450-5038; Cell: (612) 963-5158 Fax: (651) 450-5090 Email: smtoren@waterousco.com

Jr. Director-at-Large

Phil Gerace KME Fire Apparatus One Industrial Complex Nesquehoning, PA 18240 Tel: (570) 669-5174; Cell: (570) 233-1452 Email: pgerace@kovatch.com

PROFESSIONAL RESOURCES: Administrator Karen Burnham 29 Stillman Road, Lynnfield, MA 01940 Tel: (781) 334-2911; Cell: (617) 771-5407 Fax: (781) 334-2911; Home: (781) 334-3100 Email: info@fama.org; karenhburnham@gmail.com Legal Counsel James J. Juneau, Esquire 15301 Spectrum Dr., Suite 300, Addison, TX 75001 Tel: (972) 866-3333; Cell: (972) 523-1011 Fax: (972) 866-8378; Email: jjuneau@juneauboll.com GAC Consultant David Gatton Development Initiatives, Inc. 1620 Eye Street, MW, Washington DC 20006 Tel: (202) 957-6530; Cell: (202) 957-6530 Fax: (202) 293-3109; Email: dgatton@dinitiatives.com

www.fama.org

WINTER 2011– 2012

Travel Planner Bob Grimaldi Rome Travel Bureau, Inc. 413 Wooded Crossing Circle St. Augustine, FL 32084 Cell: (904) 495-5055; Email: bobg@rometravel.com Web Site Services/Newsletter Windmill Hill Consulting, LLC Gabe Steinbach Simon Steinbach 1004 Dolores Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63132 Cell: (314) 504-0945; Fax: (314) 228-0090 Email: simon@windmillhillconsulting.com

Prsrt Standard U.S. Postage Paid St. Louis MO Permit 175

FAMA FLYER P.O. Box 397 Lynnfield, MA 01940-0397

2012 fire service events calendar

Pittsburgh Fire, Rescue & EMS Expo

Wildland Urban Interface Conference

International Hazardous Materials Response

NFPA Conference & Expo

Fire Rescue East

FAMA Spring Meeting

PA Fire Expo

IAFC Missouri Valley Division

FDSOA Apparatus Maintenance Symposium

Saskatchewan Fire Chiefs

Northwest Fire Expo

IAFC Southeastern Division

FDIC

Metro Chiefs

A Publication of Fire Apparatus Manufacturers’ Association, Inc.

FAMA FLYER

1/14-1/15 Monroeville, PA

P.O. Box 397 Lynnfield, MA 01940-0397 Tel & Fax: (781) 334-2911 E-Mail: info@fama.org Website: www.fama.org Editors:

Karen Burnham Greg Kozey Editorial Staff:

1/20-1/21 Daytona Beach, FL

1/22-1/25 Orlando, FL

iWomen’s 2012 International Conference 2/8-2/11 Tampa, FL

Firehouse World

2/19-2/23 (Exhs: 2/21-23) San Diego, CA

Mary Murphy-Overmann Bruce Whitehouse Mindy Rotellini

VA Fire Chiefs Mid Atlantic Expo & Symposium

Design:

Long Island Mega Show

Meg Fuschetti

2/23-2/26 Virginia Beach, VA 2/25-2/26 Uniondale, NY

EMS Today

2/28-3/3 Baltimore, MD

Ohio Fire, Rescue & EMS Expo 3/9-3/10 Cleveland, OH

3/25-3/29 Reno, NV

3/30-4/3 Ft. Lauderdale, FL 4/12-4/14 Moose Jaw, SK

4/16-4/21 (Exhs: 4/19-21) Indianapolis, IN

FAMA Technical Committee Meeting 4/19 (7:30 am) Indianapolis, IN

CFSI Fire Service Dinner 4/25-4/26 Washington, DC

FAMA/FEMSA GAC Hill Day

4/25-4/26 Washington, DC

Fire Rescue Med 5/5-5/8 Las Vegas, NV

Ontario Fire Chiefs 5/5-5/9 Toronto, ON

5/17-5/20 Baltimore, MD 5/18-5/20 Harrisburg, PA 5/18-5/19 Portland, OR

5/19-5/24 Louisville, KY

IAFC Eastern Division 5/31-6/2 Trevose, PA

FDIC - Atlantic 6/3-6/5 Wolfville, NS

Quebec Fire Chiefs Convention 6/2-6/5 Rimouski, QC

FCABC Annual Conference & Fire Expo 6/3-6/7 Richmond, BC

Manitoba Association of Fire Chiefs 6/7-6/9 Winkler, MB

6/11-6/14 Las Vegas, NV

6/13-6/15 Independence, MO

6/13-6/16 Hampton, VA

NYSAFC FIRE 2012

6/13-6/16 (Exhs: 6/14-16) Verona, NY

NEAFC Fire, Rescue, EMS 6/20-6/24 West Springfield, MA

Firehouse Expo

7/17-7/21 (Exhs: 7/19-21) Baltimore, MD

Texas A&M Municipal Fire School 7/22-7/27 College Station, TX

Dept. of Defense Training Conference 7/30-8/3 Denver, CO

Fire Rescue International 7/31-8/4 (Exhs: 8/3-4) Denver, CO

For updates, corrections, or additions contact Brian Cassell at 570‐656‐0324 or bcassell@kovatch.com — calendar UPDATES may be found at www.fama.org —