The Charlotte Fire Department was dispatched to a reported house fire on Kinglet Drive in North Charlotte.
See story on page 4
Cooksville Responds to Trailer Fire
During the CVFD chicken pie dinner, an alarm sounded for a possible structure fire in their district.
See story on page 6
Fatality at Sharon School Road Fire
Multiple departments were dispatched to a structure fire with a disabled person trapped inside on Sharon School Road.
See story on page 10
Grass and Woods Fire Burns 25 Acres
The Harmony Fire Department was alerted for a large grass and woods fire on Sheffield Road in Harmony.
See story on page 13
South Atlantic Fire Rescue Expo Part 2
Fire News photo coverage from this year’s show.
See story on pages 27-29
Tributes
In Memory of NAFECO Founder
Mr. Jerrell Oaks
Pineville’s Maxwell Fishlove
See story on pages 15 & 30
Serving Fire & EMS Heroes Since 1973
FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher/CEO
TIM EDWARDS, Chief Operating Officer
GARY P. JOYCE, Editor
MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production
CLIFF CHIESA, Art Director/Production Manager
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SUZANNE BANCROFT, Business Development Manager
BRYAN LOPEZ, Editorial Assistant
LYNN SEDLER, GREG JONES, Graphic Artists
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CONTRIBUTORS: Kenneth Clouser, Chris Creighton, Kevin Imm, William G. Kennedy Mike Legeros, Andrew Tetreault
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Motley Crews of the Month
Looking Back
page 14
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page 15 Training
pages 20-21 Focus of the Month
News
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Proud Member Of:
Holly Springs Working Residential Fire
At exactly 2200 hours on July 19, 2025, the Holly Springs Fire Department was dispatched, along with Fairview Fire, to a reported house fire on Sunset Oaks Drive. While units were responding dispatch received numerous calls reporting the house was struck by lightning and that the roof was on fire. Fairview Engine 1 arrived to fire showing from the attic. Fairview Engine 1 and Holly Springs Engine 1 both stretched lines to attack the fire. The fire was quickly knocked down and contained to the third floor/attic. The fire was likely caused by a lightning strike. Units on scene were Apex Engine 34, Cary Engine 6, Fairview Engine 1, Engine 3, FuquayVarina Engine 2, Holly Springs Battalion 1, Car 1, Engine 1, Engine 2, Ladder 255, Squad 1, Wake County EMS & Fire Services. - Fire News photo by Jackson Pope
North Charlotte House Fire
On September 5, 2025 at 1438 hours, the Charlotte Fire Department was dispatched to a reported house fire on Kinglet Drive in the Highland Creek community in North Charlotte. Ladder 31 arrived on the scene and reported heavy fire through the roof of the house above the garage. Ladder 31 commenced the fire attack, Engine 35 secured the water supply and assisted with fire attack with a second line, while Engine 36 and Concord Fire Department Truck 11 conducted the search. Search crews were able to locate and remove several canines from the house. Firefighters were able to control the fire in 40 minutes. There were no injuries to civilians or firefighters. Charlotte Fire investigators determined the fire to be accidental, starting in a storage area above the garage. Units on the initial assignment included Charlotte Engines 36, 35, 28, and 27, Ladder 31, Rescue11, Battalion Chief 2 and Safety 1, along with Concord Fi8990re Department Engine 5, Truck 11 and Battalion Chief 2. - Fire News photo by William G Kennedy
Fire Cause: Controlled Burn Out of Control
On November 17, 2025 at 1041 hours, Troutman Fire Rescue and North Carolina Forestry Service were dispatched to a grass and woods fire on the Barium Springs property. A large header could be seen from a distance and arriving units arrived to a large area being fed by strong winds burning adjacent to a construction site. Monticello Fire Rescue was called for an additional brush truck, and construction crews used heavy equipment to knock down burning trees, the fire was placed under control at 1138 with a little over two acres burned due to another controlled burn that got out of control. Firefighters were on the scene several more hours hitting the hot spots and overhauling the area.
- Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Cooksville Responds to Trailer Fire
During the Cooksville Volunteer Fire Department (CVFD) chicken pie dinner, an alarm sounded for a possible structure fire in CVFD district. As members responded, large thick black smoke could be seen above the tree line. Arriving crews determined there were no occupants inside, but the owner’s dog may have been inside. Heavy flames were visible from all sides of a fifth wheel camper, used as the occupants primary residence. The camper was located in a heavily wooded lot at the top of a steep hill a few hundred feet from the roadway. Flames and thick black smoke had extended to trees, some nearby materials on a utility trailer, and a nearby pickup trucks paint, which was peeling due to the extensive heat. An aggressive attack by responders brought the fire under control in less than eight minutes and prevented further extension of the fire into the woods and other vehicles on the properly. Despite the efforts of firefighters, they were unable to gain entry to save the dog. The occupant of the trailer lost everything in the fire, including his beloved dog.
- Submitted by Peter Weinrich, Cooksville VFD
Delivery Van Fire in Raleigh
On November 13, 2025, a delivery van caught fire at an apartment complex on Lynn Ridge Drive in Raleigh. Ladder 23 was first-arriving and pulled the first line. They were followed by Engine 23, Ladder 18 and Battalion 4. The extended incident required a hydrant for water supply and forcible entry to access the van’s cargo compartment.
- Fire News photos by Mike Legeros
TIC Can Show Where Fire Isn’t
Raleigh Firefighter Courtney Yow is atop Raleigh Ladder 4 and using a thermal imaging camera (TIC) to check the upper story of a home on Dobson Court on September 12, 2025. Crews conducted both an interior and exterior investigation. No fire was found.
- Fire News photo by Mike Legeros
Fatality at Sharon School Road Fire
On October 27, 2025, at 1434 hours, the West Iredell Fire Department along with the Stony Point, Troutman, Monticello, Catawba fire units and Iredell County EMS and Rescue Squad were dispatched to a report of a structure fire with a person with disabilities trapped inside on Sharon School Road. Arriving units transmitted a working fire for a heavily involved structure. Firefighters rescued the trapped person from the structure, but the victim was pronounced deceased at the scene. The fire was placed under control at 1540 hours and the Iredell County Fire Marshals Office and the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office are conducting an investigation. Sharon School Road was closed in both directions as crews established a water supply to battle the blaze.
- Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Home Destroyed in Hiddenite Blaze
On October 5, 2025 at 2205 hours, the Trinity, Stony Point and Central fire departments were alerted for a structure fire on Rose Garden Lane in Hiddenite. First units reported a fully involved structure and a working fire was transmitted; all departments were re-toned for manpower. Iredell County EMS, Iredell Rescue Squad and Trinity and Stony Points Auxiliary were also added to the alarm. All occupants were accounted for, and crews stretched multiple hoseline and battled the blaze which destroyed the home. The fire was placed under control at 2254. The cause of the fire was under investigation by the Iredell County Fire Marshals Office.
- Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Charlotte House Fire on Tiffany Crest Drive
On September 15, 2025, at 1426 hours, the Charlotte Fire Department dispatched crews from the Fourth Battalion to a reported house fire on Tiffany Crest Drive. While en route, dispatch upgraded the call to a working fire after receiving multiple 911 calls, adding Battalion Chief 1 and Investigators. At 1432, Engine 29 arrived and reported a singlestory residential building with smoke and fire showing from the B/C corner. Engine 29 commenced the fire attack, with Engine 23 securing the water supply, Ladder 23 conducting the search and Battalion 4 assuming command. Crews were able to control the fire in under 20 minutes and there were no reported injuries. Fire investigators determined the fire to be accidental, resulting from an electrical issue in the attic. Units on the assignment included Engines 29, 23, 42 and 65, Ladder 23, Rescue 11, Battalion Chief 4 and Safety 1.
- Fire News photos by William G Kennedy
Fairview Put New Engine 1 into Service
On July 9, 2025, the Fairview Rural Fire Department (Wake County) put in service a new Engine 1, a 2025 Pierce Impel, pumping 1500 gpm, with a 750 gal water tank. New Engine 1 has already run a first-due working fire.
- Fire News photo by Jackson Pope
Busy Day in Iredell County
On November 13, 2025 at 1408 hours, Mooresville and Shepherds fire rescues, along with North Carolina Fire Service, extinguished an over-two-acre grass and woods fire caused by careless open burning on Sorrel Lane. The fire was brought under control in about 25 minutes, and firefighters were hitting hotspots well after that. It was one of several grass and woods fires that burned throughout the county.
- Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Abandoned Structure on Lippards Farm Rd.
On October 21, 2025 at 0409 hours, the West Iredell Fire Department, along with Stony Point, Monticello and Iredell County Rescue Squad, were alerted for a structure fire in the vicinity of Lippards Farm Road and Happy Acres Drive. Units arrived to a fully involved structure that was believed to be abandoned. Departments were re-toned for manpower to the scene and Trinity and Statesville departments and Iredell County EMS were also added to the alarm. Firefighters stretched two hoselines and began attacking the blaze. The fire was so intense that trees and shrubs were also on fire. Firefighters placed the fire under control at 0455 and crews worked the scene for several more hours, overhauling the structure and extinguishing hot spots. No injuries were reported, and the Iredell County Fire Marshal’s Office was investigating the cause. Chief of the West Iredell Fire Department Jerry Houston was in command of the operation. - News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Grass and Woods Fire Burns 25 Acres
On November 16, 2025, at 1420 hours, the Harmony Fire Department, along with the North Carolina Forestry Service and County Line Fire Department, was alerted for a large grass and woods fire on Sheffield Road in Harmony. Arriving units reported a large fire and additional brush trucks and tankers from Cool Springs, Union Grove and Sheffield Calahan fire departments were called to the scene. Additional calls for manpower were also transmitted and Iredell County EMS also stood by at the scene. Firefighters battled the blaze that consumed over 25 acres and stopped the fire from consuming a structure. The fire was placed under control at 1631 hours and crews were hitting hot spots for hours afterwards. No injuries were reported. North Carolina Forestry Service was investigating the cause. - Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Stony
Looking Back Charlotte - 2022
On February 2, 2022 at 2051, the Charlotte Fire Department responded to a restaurant fire on Carmel Road. Callers driving by reported heavy black smoke showing from a large vacant restaurant once home to Char Bar 7. Charlotte firefighters rescued a homeless man trapped within the building while battling the fire. The victim was transported to a hospital by Mecklenburg EMS with life-threatening injuries. Fifty firefighters from the Charlotte Fire Department brought the fire under control within 40 minutes.
- Fire News photos by Fully Involved Media Group
Tribute In Memory of NAFECO Founder Mr. Jerrell Oaks
It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our founder and CEO, Mr. Jerrell Oaks.
For more than 55 years, Mr. Oaks dedicated himself to NAFECO, working every day to provide exceptional products and service to our customers. His vision, determination, and leadership shaped not only our company, but also the people who make up the NAFECO family.
Mr. Oaks built NAFECO on values of hard work, integrity, and commitment — values he instilled in every employee. Because of his leadership and example, NAFECO’s strength, quality, and spirit will continue to thrive for years to come.
We ask that you keep the Oaks family and the entire NAFECO family in your thoughts and prayers as we honor his remarkable legacy and celebrate the lasting impact he made on us all.
- The NAFECO Family Brandon Oaks, Brian Oaks, Brent Oaks
Car into Building on Brawley School Rd.
On October 31, 2025 (Halloween evening) at 2248 hours, Mooresville Fire Rescue, police and Iredell County EMS responded to a report of a structural collapse on Brawley School Road. Arriving units found a car had struck a column outside the structure and crashed into the front of Mamma’s Pizza Express. Crews from Mooresville Rescue 1 determined that the steel support beam was not damaged and the structure was sound. Firefighters secured the scene, and it was turned over to the Mooresville Police Department. No injuries were reported, and the business was closed at the time of the incident. - Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Vehicle Rolls, Takes out Wires, Poles, Transformer and More
On November 13, 2025 at 1832 hours, Shepherds Fire Rescue was dispatched to an electrical hazard with wires down and smoking on Amity Hill Road. Responding units were advised of a vehicle rollover at that location and Troutman Fire Rescue was added to the alarm. Arriving units had wires, a pole and transformer across the roadway along with a vehicle on its roof and a grass fire. The driver was self-extricated and had minor injuries. Crews extinguished the fire and secured the area. - Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
White Lake Hold Swift Water Operations Class
The White Lake Fire Department hosted a swift water boat operations class. The class not only included their firefighters and juniors, but also firefighters from ADR Fire, Tarheel Fire, Kelly Fire, White Lake Water Rescue and Tobermory Fire. They learned dealing with hazards, search procedures, maintenance, troubleshooting, boat handling, victim extraction methods, MOB (man overboard) and getting back into the boat. There were over 35 students in the class and five awesome Instructors to make it happen.
- Photos courtesy of Amber Glisson
North Iredell Rescue Squad MCI Drill
On September 20, 2025, the North Iredell Rescue Squad held an MCI (Mass Casualty Incident) drill at the North Iredell Middle School. This multi-agency drill was planned about six months ago and involved the Union Grove, Central and Harmony fire departments along with North Carolina State Highway Patrol, Iredell County EMS and personnel from ECOM. Ultimate Towing and Recovery donated all of the vehicles used in the drill and heavy-
duty rigs to set up the vehicles so emergency crews could run two different training scenarios. There were 57 personnel that participated in the drill and worked on inter-agency communication and working together at the scene. The drill was a great success and better prepared all agencies to better serve their communities.
- Fire News photos by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Huntersville Conducts Live Fire Training
The Huntersville Fire Department conducted a live fire training on the evening of August 28, 2025, at a donated structure on Hambright Road in Huntersville. The training allowed crews to go through multiple live fire training evolutions with firefighters
repeatedly entering and extinguishing fires within the structure. Once all training evolutions were completed the house was allowed to burn to the ground.
- Fire News photos by William G. Kennedy
Maiden Fire Department Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
On September 6, 2025, the Maiden (NC) Fire Department held a ribbon cutting ceremony for their new headquarters station. The 19,432-square-foot facility is located at 719 East Main Street in Maiden and features four drive-through apparatus bays, multiple offices, bunk rooms, a kitchen and dining area, workout room and training rooms for personnel. The new station is replacing the cobination department’s 50-plus-year old, 4,000-square-foot facility. Congratulations to the men and women of the Maiden Fire Department and the community they serve.
- Fire News photos by William G. Kennedy
Gaston Fire & Rescue Cadets Take 1st and 3rd in State-Wide
Competition
Gaston Fire & Rescue Cadets traveled to Fayetteville and competed in the North Carolina Association of Rescue and EMS junior divisional technical rescue competition. The competition consisted of using a compass, knot tying, rigging a Stokes basket for a vertical lower, z-drag mechanical advantage, use of cribbing, setting up a one-to-one picket system and correct donning of Class 3 harnesses. Alexander County Rescue Squad Junior members placed second. The competition was so close that the correct tying of one knot (figure 8 bend) separated first from second place.
- Submitted by Paul Nowell, Captain
South Iredell Fall Fire Festival a Hit
Renovation and Expansion of Cooksville Fire Building
On October 26, 2025, the South Iredell Fire Department held its annual Fall Fire Festival with over 1,000 community members attending. There were many fire safety demonstrations throughout the day including a smoke house that showed children what to do to evacuate their home if there was a fire in it and the proper way to use a fire extinguisher to extinguish an oven fire. There was structure fire, car fire and vehicle extrication demonstrations along with bounce houses, food vendors and pumpkin painting with the Mooresville High School Junior ROTC helping the children. The big attraction were helicopters from Atrium Health Medicenter Air and Novant Health Air Link that landed and their crews answered questions and allowed the community members to get an up-close look at the lifesaving aircraft. Over 30 members of the department volunteered their Sunday to make this event a great success again under the direction of Chief of the Department Jordan Casarella.
- Fire News photos by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
After 15 years of planning and a year of construction, Cooksville Volunteer Fire Department dedicated the renovation and expansion of their firehouse on October 4, 2025. The $2.2 million dollar work was completed by D. R. Reynolds Company, Inc. and was made possible with the financial assistance of Catawba County elected officials. The original building served the fire department for over 60 years. Large apparatus had inches between the door height and bumpers when parked inside. This project completely gutted the existing structure, eliminating a single bay and transforming it into an entry foyer, dispatch room and office. The 4,980-square foot addition provided much needed space for the large apparatus, allowing space for additional vehicles in the future and the ability to work around and on the engines inside. The addition compliments the original building with matching masonry and concept, and will serve CVFD for the next 60 years. Cutting the ribbon are (left to right) original Charter member Dean Hood, Chief Phil Leonard, Original Firefighter Melvin Lail, Sr Auxiliary member Ruth Rhoney and Board Chairman Andrew Lail.
- Submitted by Peter Weinrich, Cooksville VFD
9/11 Memorial Walk
On September 11, 2025, first responders throughout Dare County along with members of the community participated in the annual 9/11 Memorial Walk. Participants completed the 5K walk from the Kill Devil Fire Department - Dare County EMS Station 1 to the top of the Wright Brothers Memorial and back. Over 300 people attended this event.
- Submitted by Lee Goldman
Raleigh Fire Museum Muster
On September 13, 2025, the Raleigh Fire Museum held its second annual fire apparatus muster. During the four-hour event, they recorded 353 visitors at the Keeter Training Center where the museum is located. Twelve emergency vehicles were displayed, ranging in ages from an 1880s handhose reel to a 1920 triple combination to a quartet of Mack pumpers of 1948, 1971, 1978, and 1982 vintage. The event was held in conjunction with the fire museum’s monthly second-Saturday opening.
- Fire News photo by Mike Legeros
On Site Protection at NC State Fair in Raleigh
In October, Western Wake Fire Rescue again provided on-site fire protection and first responder services for the 11 days of the North Carolina State Fair in Raleigh. They staffed a pumper, brush truck, and three UTVs. Each was strategically staged around the state fairgrounds. They also worked collaboratively with Wake County EMS to provide on-site fire and EMS service to the nearly one million visitors that attended this year. - Fire News photos by Mike Legeros
Cumberland Road FD Makes History as First County Fire Station to Achieve ISO Class 1 Rating
The Cumberland Road Fire Department has achieved a milestone in fire protection and public safety, earning a Class 1 Public Protection Classification (PPC) rating from the Insurance Services Office (ISO). This marks the first time a county fire department in Cumberland County has received a Class 1 rating, which is the highest possible score.
North Carolina Fire Marshal Brian Taylor officially presented Cumberland Road Fire Department its Class 1 Rating in a ceremony held at the fire station. Cumberland Road Fire Chief Steven Parrish accepted the rating. Cumberland Road is only the 38th fire department in the state to receive the Class 1 Rating.
The ISO rating system evaluates fire departments nationwide on key factors such as emergency communications, fire suppression capabilities, community risk reduction, staffing, equipment, training and water supply. A Class 1 designation places Cumberland Road Fire Department among the top fire protection agencies in the country. Fewer than 1% of departments nationwide achieve this elite rating.
“This achievement is a testament to the dedication of our firefighters, leadership, and community partners who work every day to protect lives and property,” said Cumberland Road Fire Chief Steven Parrish. “Reaching Class 1 reflects years of training, planning, and investment in public safety. Most importantly, it shows our citizens that they can count on world-class fire protection.”
The improved ISO rating can also benefit residents and businesses financially, as many insurance companies use ISO classifications to help determine property insurance premiums. A Class 1 designation often translates into lower insurance costs for homeowners and businesses.
“We are proud that Cumberland Road is leading the way for Cumberland County,” said Cumberland County Fire Commissioner Henry Tyson. “Their achievement represents not only professional excellence but also a stronger, safer community for all of us.”
The Cumberland Road Fire District serves approximately 9,000 residents across five square miles from a single fire station. The district
includes a mix of single-family homes, multi-family units, manufactured housing communities, and a variety of commercial occupancies such as retail businesses, offices, daycares, churches and a major manufacturing facility.
Despite being the smallest fire district in Cumberland County by geographic area, Cumberland Road responds to one of the highest volumes of emergency calls. With major roadways running through the district and continued residential and commercial growth, the department consistently answers thousands of calls each year. This recognition reaffirms its commitment to continuous improvement and protecting the community at the highest standard possible.
In the photo: North Carolina State Fire Marshal Brain Taylor presents Cumberland Road Fire Department Fire Chief Steven Parrish the Class 1 ISO rating.
- Photo courtesy of Taylor Nelson; submitted by Steven W. Parrish, Fire Chief
Dragon Slayers Hold 9/11 Memorial Ride
On September 7, 2025, the Dragon Slayers Motorcycle Club of Wake County held a 9/11 Memorial Ride. The Sunday event started at the Harley-Davidson dealership on South Saunders Street in Raleigh. Members rode to the nearby North Carolina Fallen Firefighters Memorial at Nash Square and across the street from Fire Station 1. Aaron Hickman led a short memorial service that included placing a wreath at the memorial. The riders then rode 25 miles east to their clubhouse for a hot dog lunch.
Now 25-years-old, the Dragon Slayers Motorcycle Club of Wake County is comprised mostly of firefighters and many of whom retired from the Raleigh Fire Department.
- Fire News photos by Mike Legeros
WakeMed Police Office Roger Smith: LODD
On November 8, 2025, the Fairview Rural Fire Department of Wake County participated in a procession to escort the body of fallen WakeMed Police Office Roger Smith from the WakeMed Raleigh Campus to the state medical examiner’s office off Blue Ridge Road. Officer Smith was killed earlier that day in a shooting at the WakeMed Healthplex in Garner.
- Fire News photos by Mike Legeros
CFSI EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR BILL WEBB ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT
After serving as CFSI Executive Director for the past 30 years, Bill Webb announced his retirement effective December 31, 2025. He made the announcement a reception attended by members of the CFSI National Advisory Com-mittee and others.
“A friend of mine recently summed up his career by saying you never have to work a day in your life if you enjoy what you’re doing,” said Webb in his remarks.
“For the most part, those words describe how I feel about my work. I”
As Executive Director, Webb worked with six administrations and 10 U.S. Fire Administrators. His contributions to the fire service, including his role in the creation of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program in 2000, his support for the United States Fire Administration and National Fire Academy, and his advocacy for fire safety and prevention, among other issues, have significantly impacted public safety in our nation. In lauding Webb for his contributions to the fire service, CFSI President Jim Estepp quoted Harry Truman who said, “It’s amazing what you can accomplish if you don’t care who gets the credit.”
“At times a quiet force, Bill has undoubtedly proven himself as a pivotal fire service leader, influencing important issues in Washington, DC, that have greatly benefited our nation’s fire and emergency services,” said CFSI President Jim Estepp. “We will miss his leadership.”
CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS: 2026
EMS & FIRE PRO EXPO
October 22–24, 2026 |Mohegan Sun, CT - Specialized Pre-Conferences: October 21, 2026
The 2026 EMS & Fire PRO Expo invites experienced and dynamic presenters to share their knowledge, expertise, and innovative ideas with EMS, fire, and first responder professionals from across the country.
Now Accepting Presentation Proposals: We are seeking cutting-edge and engaging presentations that reflect the most current practices, research, and trends in the emergency services industry.
Presentation Categories: Proposals are encouraged in the following focus areas: Basic Clinical: Foundational patient care, assessment, and treatment techniques; Advanced Clinical: Complex or specialized medical and trauma care, innovations in pre-hospital medicine, and emerging clinical technologies; Operations: Incident management, safety, interoperability, and field operations.; Educators: Instructional methods, classroom innovation, simulation, and professional development; General: Topics of broad interest across EMS and fire disciplines, including wellness, culture, and workforce development; Administrative/Leadership: Strategic planning, leadership development, budgeting, personnel management, and policy; Fire-Based Classes: Fireground operations, tactics, suppression, prevention, and firefighter health and safety; Fire Based Hands-On Training Sessions: Interactive, skill-based programs offering attendees practical experience in controlled training environments. Specialized Pre-Conference Events - October 21, 2026;featuring two focused learning opportunities: Pediatric Symposium: Sessions designed to enhance care and advocacy for pediatric patients (pre-hospital and emergency); and Weathering the Storm –Preparedness Summit: A full-day program addressing disaster response.
Submission Details: Presenters should submit session proposals that are interactive, relevant, and evidence based. Content should be designed to inform, inspire, and empower participants to elevate their professional practice. Submit proposals through the EMS & Fire Pro Portal found on the presenter tab of our website www.emspro.org.
Estepp announced that CFSI Director of Government Affairs Michaela Campbell, a seasoned leader with a strong track record, will serve as the organization’s next Executive Director. “Throughout the years, Michaela has demonstrated herself to be a strong leader and effective voice for our nation’s fire services,” said Estepp. “I am confident that she will continue the legacy of strong leadership set by Bill Webb as our next Executive Director.”
Deadline & Selection: All proposals must be received by January 30, 2026. Submissions will be reviewed by the EMS & Fire PRO Expo Education Committee.Share your expertise, connect with peers, and make an impact at the 2026 EMS & Fire PRO Expo Contact Information: www.emspro.org | info@emspro.org.
South Atlantic Fire Rescue Expo Part 2
Part 1 Appeared in the October/November issue. Part 2 Coverage continues on next two pages.
- Fire News photos by Mike Legeros, Chris Creighton and Tesh Parekh
South Atlantic Fire Rescue Expo Part 2
Continued from previous page. More coverage continues on next page.
- Fire News photos by Mike Legeros, Chris Creighton and Tesh Parekh
South Atlantic Fire Rescue Expo Part 2
Continued from previous page.
- Fire News photos by Mike Legeros, Chris Creighton and Tesh Parekh
Pineville’s Maxwell Fishlove
Maxwell “Max” Vincent Howard Fishlove of Charlotte, NC, passed away unexpectedly on August 14, 2025. He was 19 years old.
He was a young, loyal friend and Firefighter with the Pineville Volunteer Fire Department who was pursuing his deep passion for helping others as a dedicated Firefighter. Max was born on March 15, 2006, in Hannibal, MO, the only child of Thomas Irving Fishlove and Susanna ‘Anna’ (Ritacca) Fishlove.
Max graduated from high school in 2024 in Charlotte. He formerly lived in Madison, WI and attended Van Hise Elementary School. Max was an outdoorsman. He completed a 17-day expedition through Outward Bound in Chesapeake Bay, in the summer of 2023. He completed his high school diploma finishing online classes while working a full schedule at Target at Blakeney Mall for three years.
“The sudden passing of Max is a tremendous and tragic loss for his family, and for the Pineville Volunteer Fire Department, and our entire Charlotte and Salisbury region.” according to the Pineville Volunteer Fire Department press release. “Max was loved by many as the kind
leader and young volunteer firefighter who would always have others backs on the fire ground. Our thoughts and prayers are with his entire family during this difficult time. May perpetual light shine on our Brother Firefighter Max and his legacy.”
He is survived by his parents Anna Fishlove of Charlotte and Thomas Fishlove of Bentonville (AR); he is also survived by his significant other Ashley Barnett; maternal grandparents Vincent and Maria Ritacca of North Carolina; uncles Jeffery and Mark Ritacca of Ft. Lauderdale; and William Fishlove of Chicago; godmother Cecilia Ketner of Madison, WI; great-aunts and uncles, Diane Stone of Chicago; and Rosalie Messina of Madison (WI); Cecilia Webster of Chicago; Angelo Messina of Alexandria, (VA); and Vito Messina of Madison; best friends, Xander Corriher, Hannah Jackson, Dalton Miller and Jocelyn Krezmer; close cousins, Beth Bartoli, Jodi Ritacca Carlini, Greg Carlini, Sean Lewis, Ann and Tom Strobbe and many other; and his faithful four-legged companions, Dozer, Velma and Eli.
