The PFIA Protector is printed quarterly by the Police and Firemen’s Insurance Association. The Executive and Editorial Offices are located at 101 E. 116th Street, Carmel, IN 46032 Local: 317-581-1913 or toll-free: 1-800-221-PFIA (7342)
Editor .............Rebekah Brownson Police and Firemen’s Insurance Association
President .............. John E. Murphy
Senior Vice President, ................
Executive Secretary Bradd Roembke
Vice President, Treasurer Eric Hofmeister
Board of Directors
Mike Carrigan Littleton, Colorado
Ruben Cevallos San Antonio, Texas
Myles Christie ........ Augusta, Georgia
Thomas Clines Fishers, Indiana
Tom Evans Cattaragus, New York
Raymond Gallardo Ankeny, Iowa
Greg Gearhart Uniontown, Ohio
Eric Hofmeister ..... Indianapolis, Indiana
Gerald Housel Speedway, Indiana
Mark S. Kemp New Palestine, Indiana
David G. Lentz Slidell, Louisiana
John Murphy Carmel, Indiana
Steve D. Murphy ...... Indianapolis, Indiana
Michael Parise Hamburg, New Jersey
Bradd Roembke New Palestine, Indiana
Legal Counsel John D. Hoover E. Davis Coots Lawrence W. Schmits Actuary
Brad Simanek
Ballard & Company
18 PEDALING TOWARD PARTNERSHIP: How Bicycle Patrols Strengthen Community Policing
Rediscovering one of the most effective community building tools.
14 THE HEADQUARTERS MOUNTAIN BIKE PARK
HMBP opened in 2015, created by Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) North District Bike Unit officers to help build a connection between our youth and the police through mountain biking.
17 CAMP FURY
This camp is a week long camp run entirely by women in first responder careers and it is open only to high school–aged girls.
NEW
SINGLE PAYMENT DEFERRED
ANNUITY
The Police and Firemen’s Insurance Association’s Single Premium Deferred Annuity offers a fixed annuity with a guaranteed interest rate for 3, 5, or 7 years. It provides a safe and reliable investment option with tax-deferred growth, protecting against market volatility.
Ideal For
■ Individuals seeking a safe, reliable way to grow savings.
■ Those worried about economic uncertainty or market volatility.
■ Retirement planners looking to lock in a guaranteed return while deferring taxes.
Fixed Guaranteed Interest:
Choose a 3, 5, or 7-year duration with a guaranteed rate for the entire period.
Tax-Deferred Growth: Earnings grow without being taxed until withdrawn.
Withdrawals: After the first year, you can withdraw up to 10% annually without surrender charges.
No Market Risk: Offers a risk-free investment, avoiding stock market volatility.
Flexible Options: After the term, you can take the money, roll it over, or annuitize it.
Safe & Reliable: Provides stability and growth, with no management fees.
Attractive Rates: Offers higher rates than typical CDs.
Retirement Planning: Ideal for deferring taxes while still working and securing a stable income for retirement.
Term Life Insurance Conversion
Our term life products provide an option to convert to permanent life insurance. Please refer to your policy for specific conversion rules.
Crediting of Annuity Plans Issued After 2012
Our qualified, non-qualified and ROTH IRA products issued after November 1, 2012 were issued with a guaranteed interest rate of 1.00%. As per the policy language, this rate will be redetermined semiannually on January 1 and July 1 and will remain in effect for the subsequent six month period. Due to the Federal Reserve adjusting the interest rate, the guaranteed rate on these plans will be 2.4% beginning January 1, 2026. The crediting rate will be 2.4% for this period. This rate will be redetermined on July 1, 2026. Please contact Vice President/Treasurer Eric Hofmeister at our Home Office with any questions.
LetterLetter from the President W
Welcome to the Winter 2025 issue of The Protector!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all our members and their families! We have had an exciting year here at PFIA! We launched our new Quick Quote platform which allows our members to receive an offer of life insurance within 10 minutes by completing an eApp developed specifically for PFIA.
We launched our new Final Expense Whole Life Insurance (FEWL) to help you to protect your family from unexpected financial strain while giving them peace of mind. This permanent policy builds cash value and provides a level death benefit. This policy is available to our members up to 80 years old, so it is not too late to apply!
Most applicants receive an instant quote with our PFIA Quick Quote.
We have also launched our new Single Premium Deferred Annuity (SPDA). This plan allows you to choose a duration of 3, 5, or 7 years for your money to grow tax deferred. We set the highest available crediting rate each month for new issues, and you lock in that crediting rate for the duration of your plan. Minimum issue is $1,000 and there is no maximum single payment. This plan can be funded with qualified or non-qualified money, and has no management fees (surrender fees apply for early withdrawal above 10% after the first year). Use our SPDA for guaranteed return without the risk of stock market volatility. Contact your local representative for more information on these exciting developments at PFIA!
The Home Office has had a busy year servicing our members making address and beneficiary changes, providing claim and account services, and providing information about the fraternal benefits and protection for our families we provide. Police and Firemen’s Insurance Association completes our 112th year with the close of 2025. We are the only organization in the world that exclusively insures members of the public safety services. As a fraternal benefit society, elected officers and a Board of Directors govern PFIA. Account Representatives are from all ranks of the fire service and law enforcement, active or retired, who fully understand the special needs of their colleagues. The Association works hard to offer the most up-to-date programs and plans and is always ready to address the needs of its members. PFIA has an exceptional program of fraternal benefits available to members at no cost.
The beginning of the new year is a great time to review your coverage. Please be sure we have your correct address and beneficiary information. Contact your local representative to become a new member, update your coverage or add one of our protection plans designed for police, firefighters, and correctional officers.
Thank you to all our hard-working home office employees. They work tremendously hard to ensure our members receive outstanding service! We all work together to live up to our motto: “Each Other’s Keeper.”
I would also like to thank all those brave men and women who have worked to keep us safe this holiday season. We appreciate those who spend time away from their families on these special days to keep us safe. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Fraternally,
John Murphy, President Retired BFD, Local 282
ABOUT ME
Greg Gearhart was raised in the greater Akron, Ohio area, where he has spent more than four decades rooted in community and family — the son of Dennis and Janet Gearhart and oldest of three brothers. He graduated from Ellet High School in 1996 and began his collegiate studies at Mount Union College before transferring to the University of Akron. During this time, he worked in the construction field alongside a Mennonite community.
FAMILY
EXPERIENCE
In 1999, Greg was encouraged to consider a career in the fire service. After prayerful reflection, he recognized it as a true calling — not merely a job — and began pursuing the fire service path in December 2000. While completing his Basic Fire and EMT training at Stark State College, he began his fire career as a volunteer firefighter in Mogadore, Ohio, where he developed the foundational skills and values that shaped his professional journey. In 2005, he achieved his first full-time appointment with the City of Akron Fire Department (AFD)
With a strong desire to become a leader within the department, Greg pursued advanced training through the State of Ohio Fire Academy and the National Fire Academy, preparing himself to serve with excellence in both operational and administrative roles.
Dedicated to supporting his fellow firefighters, Greg served as the Benefits Officer for the AFD from 2016 through 2020, providing guidance and assistance to members navigating important healthcare and retirement decisions. In addition, he was elected by his peers to the IAFF Local 330 Executive Board as Secretary in 2019, a role in which he has proudly served for six years, advocating for the needs and wellbeing of his brothers and sisters in the fire service. Contributing to the significance of 2019 was Greg’s promotion to Lieutenant with the Akron Fire Department — a milestone reflecting leadership, experience, and continued dedication to protecting and serving his community. Greg became a member of the Police and Fire Insurance Association (PFIA) in 2012 after being introduced to the organization’s fraternal focus and benefits by retired Akron Police PFIA Agent, Don Trejbal. His belief in the mission of the association led him to become an agent in 2013. Inspired and trained by Don, along with then Regional Sales Manager Bradd Roembke, Greg gained a deeper appreciation for the significance of fraternal benefits and their impact on first responders and their families. He committed himself to helping firefighters and police officers understand insurance options that protect their loved ones and strengthen their future security.
Greg has been blessed to be married to his wife, Krista, since 2018, and together they share four wonderful daughters, ranging in age from 13 to 19 — the heart and joy of their home. Greg continues to serve his church as a security advisor, coaches his youngest daughter’s softball team, proudly attends all of their athletic and school events, and is devoted to supporting his children and his wife as she excels in her busy role as a high school principal.
Greg wishes to express his sincere thanks to the Police and Fire Insurance Association Directors and Executives for the opportunity to serve members at the highest level. It is a responsibility he embraces with great honor and gratitude.
Greetings Members,
Growing up I was infatuated with competitive sports such as football, lacrosse and weightlifting. I attended Monmouth University and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting while obtaining Magna Cum Laude Honor Society. Upon graduation in 2006, I accepted an offer to work for PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, one of the big 4 accounting firms. This is where I gained valuable experience reading and interpreting financial statements for both public and private clients. I then pursued my ultimate dream; I wanted to transition that work experience into a law enforcement career.
In July of 2008, I was hired at the age of 24 by the Ramsey Police Department in New Jersey. In December of that year, I graduated from the Bergen County Police Academy and was awarded the Defensive Tactics Award. While working for the police department, I was assigned to patrol but held several instructor certifications centered around firearms, tactics, and supervision. I was quickly looked at as a critical thinker, a problem solver, and a relied upon source to make decisions under pressure. Over the years, I became a field training officer, firearms instructor, tactics instructor, coordinated criminal interdiction teams as well as unit head for our tactical unit. I was recently promoted to the Chief of Police and am currently serving in that role today.
I obtained my Master’s Degree in Public Management from Fairleigh Dickinson University obtaining the status of Sword and Shield Honor Society. I then attended the NJSACOP West Point Command & Leadership Academy. I became a member of the Bergen County Police Chiefs Association and the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police.
In 2013, I made the astute decision to became a member of Police and Firemen Insurance Association. An Association that provides benefits for members and families of police officers, firefighters and correctional officers, what could be better? PFIA’s motto, “Each Other’s Keeper” truly resonated with me and I’ve held it true since my inception of becoming an account representative and ABM in 2015. There is not a better feeling providing benefits knowing the help it’s providing, true fraternalism.
I am married to my beautiful and supportive wife Lauren for 12 years. I am a proud father of two wonderful children. I grow everyday as a husband and father. I volunteer as a lacrosse coach for both of my daughter’s instilling teamwork, competitive drive, and integrity.
I am very humbled by being elected as a new Director of the Police and Firemen’s Insurance Association. I would like to thank the PFIA Executive Committee, the current Board of Directors, as well as my colleagues for supporting me. As my sphere of influence will grow, I will remain steadfast to ensure the members are taken care of and our Association is supported. My philosophy: any role received is a stewardship position to ensure growth and enrichment for the Association. I am grateful for this important role and to fulfill the directorship to the best of my ability and to the best of everyone’s expectations.
Michael J. Parise
This year we celebrate and sincerely thank Nancy Brown for 11 wonderful years of dedication in our Accounting Department. Nancy has been a steady and reliable part of PFIA, always taking great care of our members and supporting our team with kindness, accuracy, and professionalism.
Beyond her work, Nancy brought joy to our office in ways we’ll never forget — from her famous Wednesday popcorn, filling the halls with that familiar smell, to her legendary Halloween costumes that everyone looked forward to each year. Her spirit, creativity, and warmth have been a cherished part of our workplace.
Nancy, we will truly miss you, but we’re grateful for every moment, every laugh, and time you made us popcorn on Wednesday’s. Thank you for everything you’ve done for PFIA and for all of us.
Wishing you happiness and fulfillment in your next chapter!
HALLOWEEN FUN
1st
2nd
3rd
place: Christina Coan as Mary Poppins
place: Nancy Brown, Zoom meeting
place: Amanda Hendricks as Bob Ross
Rebekah Brownson as the Morton Salt girl, Kandyce Shoffner as Winifred Sanderson, Susan Shinabarger-Woolf as a welder, Krystal Henderson as a witch from Cthulhu Coven, Celeste Coopedge as a cat, Heather Starwalt as mom of the midnight munchies, Kayla Borowicz as Y2K, Anne Karn as the chief candy officer, and Karen Groff as a red witch.
Mary Poppins
Bob Ross
MortonSaltgirl Winifred Sanderson welder mom of the midnight munchies
Cthulhu Coven
$1,500 $1,500
If your children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and stepchildren meet all requirements, they can apply online to Scholarship America.
Scholarships are awarded to 100 students each year and are renewable for up to three years, provided eligibility requirements are met. Applications must be completed online by May 15
Applications can be found at: https://learnmore.scholarsapply.org/PFIA/
CONTACT YOUR REPRESENTATIVE
For information on the Police and Firemen’s Insurance Association Scholarship Program and other PFIA programs please visit our website at www.pfia1913.org
WE PAY OUR RESPECTS TO OUR FALLEN HEROES
Police Officer David Rose
DeKalb County Police Department, GA
11-month veteran
Police Officer David Rose was shot and killed responding to an active shooter at the CVS in Atlanta near the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at Emory University.
The suspect was brandishing multiple guns, firing at the windows of the CDC building. When law enforcement arrived, he turned and fired at the officers. Officer Rose was struck and succumbed to his wounds at Emory University Hospital. Another officer received non-life-threatening injuries. The suspect was found on the 2nd floor of the CVS with a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He died at the scene.
Officer Rose was a United States Marine Corps veteran and had served with the DeKalb County Police Department for 11 months. He is survived by his expectant wife, two children, mother, and brother.
In October 2025, he was posthumously honored with the law enforcement Purple Heart and law enforcement Medal of Honor by the Atlanta Police Department, the Mayor of Atlanta, and the DeKalb County CEO.
Master Firefighter Preston Fant
DeKalb County Fire Department, GA
21-year veteran
During the fire, Firefighter Preston Fant became trapped while attempting to rescue a fellow firefighter. He was removed from the structure and transported to Grady Memorial Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
DeKalb County Fire Chief Darnell Fullum described Firefighter Fant as an extraordinary public servant, admired by his colleagues and beloved in the community. Chief Fullum emphasized that Fant was a highly respected and elite firefighter who brought
specialized training in swift water rescue, high-rise operations, and trench rescues. He was stationed at Fire Station 24 in Stone Mountain and consistently demonstrated courage, skill, and dedication throughout his more than two decades of service. Chief Fullum reflected on Fant’s character, noting that he was not only an exceptional firefighter but also a family man whose kindness and humility touched everyone who knew him.
CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson expressed the county’s deep sorrow, offering condolences to the Fant family and pledging the full support of the DeKalb County government during this time of loss. She affirmed that the county stands alongside the family and Fire Rescue Department, committing to walk with them through their grief. In Firefighter Fant’s honor, flags across DeKalb County were lowered to half-staff.
Firefighter Fant is the first DeKalb County firefighter to die in the line of duty while battling a fire. He leaves behind his wife and five children.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Corporal Black Reynolds
Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, IN 3-year veteran
Corporal Blake Reynolds was struck and killed while helping a disabled motorist.
Corporal Reynolds parked behind a disabled semitruck with his patrol vehicle’s lights activated. While assisting the driver, another tractortrailer crashed into his patrol car, the disabled semitruck, and Corporal Reynolds, who was standing outside of his patrol vehicle.
He was transported to IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Corporal Reynolds was a United States Army National Guard veteran and had served with the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office for three years.
How a Psychiatrist Helped Solve One of New York’s Most Bizarre Crimes
For sixteen years, fear flickered like a live wire across New York City. From 1940 to 1956, an unknown man planted more than thirty homemade bombs in movie theaters, subway stations, libraries, and office buildings. His crude devices injured over a dozen people and rattled a city already tense from war and postwar anxiety. He signed his taunting letters “F.P.”for “Fair Play”and the press called him The Mad Bomber.
The NYPD pursued thousands of leads but got nowhere. By the winter of 1956, investigators were desperate. Then Captain Howard Finney made a daring decision: to bring in a psychiatrist. It was the first time New York City police had ever sought help from a criminal psychologist.
Their choice was Dr. James A. Brussel, a soft-spoken yet eccentric psychiatrist from the New York Department of Mental Hygiene. When detectives arrived at his Manhattan office, they unloaded sixteen years of evidence including photographs, letters, fragments of bomb casings. Brussel studied them quietly.
What emerged from that room would become one of the first modern criminal profiles.
Brussel began by reading the bomber’s letters. They were precise, formal, and oddly polite. They were never crude or chaotic. From this, Brussel inferred that the man was intelligent, methodical, and obsessively neat. His
Al Ravenna/Library of Congress
George Metesky, the “Mad Bomber,” stands behind bars in Waterbury, Conn. following his arrest. Jan. 1957.
grammar and handwriting were careful, suggesting someone educated but rigidly disciplined. “This is a man who follows rules,” Brussel told detectives. “He feels persecuted but believes his cause is just.”
The psychiatrist saw classic signs of paranoia, a mind consumed by grievance. The letters repeatedly accused Consolidated Edison, the city’s power company, of ruining the writer’s life. Brussel theorized the bomber was a former employee who had suffered an injury or injustice at the company and now sought revenge.
Diving deeper, Brussel added more startling details. The man, he predicted, was of Eastern European descent, a lifelong bachelor living with female relatives, perhaps a sister or two. He would be about fifty, polite but withdrawn, and likely residing north of the city, somewhere like Connecticut.
Then came the prediction that made history. As detectives prepared to leave, Brussel said casually, “When you find him, he’ll be wearing a double-breasted suit and it will be buttoned.”
Weeks later, police combed Con Edison’s old employee records and found a name that fit: George Metesky, a 54-year-old former mechanic from Waterbury, Connecticut. Injured on the job in 1931, Metesky had filed multiple complaints against the company, claiming they had ruined his health and denied him fair compensation.
When detectives knocked on his door on January 21, 1957, Metesky was calm and polite. His small home was immaculate, shared with two unmarried sisters. In his workshop they found pipes, fuses, and metal shavings, the very ingredients used in the bombs. When asked what “F.P.” stood for, he replied simply, “Fair Play.”
And, just as Brussel had predicted, Metesky reappeared moments later in a neat, doublebreasted blue suit, which was buttoned.
The arrest electrified the nation. Newspapers called Brussel “The Psychiatrist Who Caught the Mad Bomber.” His psychological portrait had been eerily accurate, and it marked the dawn of criminal profiling, the idea that a person’s behavior could be read backward from their crimes.
Dr. Brussel went on to assist in other highprofile cases, including the search for the “Boston Strangler.” His methods blended observation, intuition, and psychology, in which he called “reasoned deduction.” Though some of his Freudian interpretations (like suggesting Metesky’s rage stemmed from an unresolved Oedipus complex) now seem dated, his approach changed policing forever.
For the NYPD, the Mad Bomber case became a turning point. It showed that understanding a criminal’s mind could be as powerful as tracing physical evidence. For Brussel, it was proof that psychology could serve justice.
Years later, he visited Metesky in the asylum where he had been declared legally insane. Metesky greeted him with a polite smile, insisting his bombs were never meant to kill, only to make a statement. “It could have been,” he said when asked if he might have been mentally ill, “but I wasn’t.”
The exchange stayed with Brussel for the rest of his life. To him, it captured the strange duality of the case, the politeness of the man behind the terror, the rational mind beneath the madness.
Today, Dr. James Brussel is remembered as the father of modern criminal profiling. His bold leap in 1956 bridged two worlds, law enforcement and psychiatry. This was the birth to an investigative tool now used around the globe.
And it all began with a city under siege, a stack of letters signed “F.P.,” and one psychiatrist willing to imagine the mind of a madman.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Fraternal Events
Georgia — PFIA Agent
Eric Smith sponsored a team for the Annual Taitague Memorial Golf Tournament, which was held on October 9, 2025.
Pictured: Andre Lacey, Eric Smith, Myles Christie, and Charles Huggins.
Georgia — PFIA Agent
Eric Smith sponsored a team for the 3rd Annual RCMO Charitable Fund Golf Tournament, held on September 26, 2025.
Pictured: Myles Christie, Eric Smith, Gavin Wood, and Martris Mims.
Texas The staff of the TDCJ Allred Unit in Wichita Falls recently took up donations and raised money to help with funeral expense of Correctional Officer Samuel Anane who passed away at his home on June 1, 2025. PFIA made a donation on July 17, 2025 to help with the funeral expenses.
Pictured: Assistant Warden Bryan Reitsma, Senior Warden Ronald Ivey, and PFIA Agent Joe Ponder.
“Each Other’s Keeper”
Georgia — PFIA Agent Jason Roehm presenting a check to Richmond Hill Fire Department for their Wrestle Scream event.
On October 17, American Premier Wrestling took over the Richmond Hill City Center for an action-packed night of family fun. All proceeds went to Operation Presents Under the Tree. Operation Presents Under The Tree is a program that makes sure no child goes without during the holiday season.
Pictured: Chief Michelle Meacham, PFIA Agent Jason Roehm, and Firefighter Mya Daigle.
Indiana PFIA Agent Greg Lehman presenting a check to PFIA member Jacob Seaton of the Owensboro Fire Department. The check is in support the 6th Annual Brothers in Blue Awareness Ride held on September 13, 2025.
Georgia In September 2025, Mariana Rose received a Memorial Benefit from PFIA Agent Ronnie Crenshaw for the loss of her husband, Officer David Rose of the Dekalb County Police Department.
York Buffalo PBA Annual Golf Tournament held at Diamond Hawk Golf Course on September 9, 2025.
(1) Pictured: Nick Poblocki, Matt Krug, Phil Serafini, and Adam Mielcarek.
(2) Pictured: Joe Panek, Bob States, Pete Massicci, and Devin Cosegalia.
(3) Pictured: Mike Scheu, Vinny Judge, Pat Overdorf, and Bobby Grande.
Louisiana September 19, 2025, PFIA Agents Robby Marquette and Lou Melancon came together to sponsor two teams for the inaugural T-Bass Golf Tournament. This event was created to honor the memory of fallen Fire Prevention Officer Taylor, “T-Bass” Bass of the Slidell Fire Department.
New
Georgia PFIA Agent Eric Smith and Regional Manager
Myles Christie presented a check to Sheriff Eugene “Gino Rock” Brantley for the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Program on August 14, 2025.
New York — On September 9, 2025 the Schenectady Firefighters Cancer foundation held their annual golf tournament. The event raised funds for the foundations work in supporting firefighters and their family members dealing with a cancer diagnosis. PFIA helped support this event.
Pictured: PFIA Agent Mark Karl, Captain Adam Colvin (event co-chair), Captain Scott Briggs (event co-chair) and Chief George Burns.
Rhode Island PFIA Robert
Carlow, President of the Greenwood Fire Company Museum accepts a donation check from PFIA for their continued upkeep of the Warwick Fire Department Museum, including two antique motorized fire apparatus and a 200 year-old hand powered pumper original to the City of Warwick, RI.
Ohio — On August 12, 2025, PFIA Agent Greg Gearhart sponsored a hole at the Canton Fire Local 249 Golf Outing for MDA.
Pictured: Marc Adam, John McIntyre, Greg Gearhart and photographer Tim Semelsberger.
Ohio — On September 6, 2025, PFIA Agent Greg Gearhart took part in sponsorship at the Cuyahoga Falls Fire Local 494 Golf Outing.
Pictured: Bob Lucey, Greg Gearhart, and James Paulus.
Georgia October 2, 2025, PFIA Agent Raphael Hale sponsored a hole for the Birmingham Firefighter Foundation, Billy Self Memorial Golf Tournament, Benefiting Firefighter Health and Safety & Smile-a-Mile.
Agent
Pictured: Marcus Crane, Courtney George, Marcus Crane, and PFIA
Raphael Hale.
Texas On November 6, 2025, the TDCJ John T. Montford Unit in Lubbock honored one of their correctional officer cadets, Jenna Garcia, who passed away on September 29, 2025, in a fatal car accident while en route to the Montford Unit for pre-service academy class. She was 31-years-old and leaves behind a spouse, four children, including a 15-month-old infant.
The staff of the Montford Unit collected donations and raised funds to help the Garcia family with the unexpected financial burden of laying a loved one to rest. The Police and Firemen’s Insurance Association also contributed to this effort.
Pictured: Major Bertha Arguelles, Training Sgt. Christopher Lemon, Training Sgt. Rosellen Gerrard, Yovany Garcia (spouse of Jenna Garcia), Senior Warden Brittany Miller, and PFIA Agent Joe Ponder. Correctional Officers in the background are the class mates of Correctional Officer Jenna Garcia that graduated on November 10, 2025.
Georgia — PFIA Jason Roehm donating a check to Firefighter Wellness Fund for their upcoming golf tournament.
Proceeds from this great event will help local first responders in their time of need.
On behalf of PFIA thank you for letting us be a part of this great event.
Pictured: PFIA Agent Jason Roehm and Captain Michael Green of Pooler Fire Department.
Florida On September 20, 2025, PFIA Agent Paul Bigelow donated to the 4th Annual 22 miles for 22. This community effort is to raise awareness for veterans and first responders mental health and suicide prevention.
Pictured: (1) Agent Paul Bigelow with Jordan Snipes, the founder just finished the 22 mile walk. (2) PFIA Agent Paul Bigelow.
“Each Other’s Keeper”
THE Mountan Bike Park HEADQUARTERS
A Park Built by Officers, For the Community
By: Rebekah Brownson
My husband and I have always loved mountain biking, and one of our favorite discoveries has been The Headquarters (HQ): Mountain Bike Skills Park in Indianapolis, Indiana. The HQ wasn’t built by a trail group or city planners but by police officers. From the very first time we visited; we were welcomed with kindness by Officer John Wall. What we found there wasn’t just a
collection of trails and skilled jumps, it was a space filled with energy, laughter, and connection.
The park opened in 2015, created by Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) North District Bike Unit officers to help build a connection between our youth and the police through mountain biking. They saw a piece of unused land and imagined a place where kids and families
could come together and ride. What makes this park so special is not just the fun jumps and skill levels that range from beginner to expert, it’s the story behind it.
In a neighborhood where poverty and crime are part of the daily reality, these officers built a place where kids could ride bikes, build confidence, and meet police officers in a completely new way. They also didn’t stop at just creating trails, they knew kids couldn’t make it to the park, so they raised money for a mobile bike track and a van to bring mountain biking into neighborhoods. Officers showed up with bikes and helmets, and over time, more than 14,000 kids have had the chance to ride because of it.
The impact of this park stretches far beyond mountain biking. It is more than dirt trails and wooden ramps. It is a place where barriers fall away, and people come together in ways that feel organic and real. Families gather here and see their children challenged and encouraged in equal measure.
Children who may have never owned a mountain bike before are given the chance to discover balance and confidence in a safe and welcoming space. Although bikes are limited, if someone doesn’t have one, they have free loaners! Officers make sure that bikes are ready and helmets are fitted so that every child can ride. No one is left out and no one feels different because of what they do or do not own. From the moment they step onto the track they can focus only on the joy of learning and the thrill of trying something new. They also get to see police officers not as distant figures of
authority but as mentors who ride beside them and cheer them on.
Officers do not come here to enforce rules or to hand out warnings. They come here to teach a child how to shift gears for the first time. They come here to run alongside a nervous rider until that rider finally takes off on their own. They come here to give high fives and encouragement after a hard fall. In this place the badge is not a wall, it is a door that opens to conversation and trust.
The park itself is proof that simple ideas can transform entire neighborhoods. It shows that officers who invest in their community through action can build something lasting. It shows that joy is powerful, and that connection is possible in places where division once lived.
I have visited many bike parks, yet this one stands apart. It’s not only about the jumps and the trails that, in my opinion are perfectly laid out, it’s about the people who ride them together.
It is about the laughter and excitement
that carries across the park in the afternoon. It is about the spark of hope that begins when a child realizes they can do something they never thought they could. Even as an adult, I’m challenging myself to do things I never thought was possible. One day, I’m going to have the courage to hit that drop! I’ve already challenged myself to hit several jumps, and with that confidence,
it’s an amazing feeling that continues to grow!
This park stands as a reminder that positive impact does not always begin with grand gestures. Sometimes it begins with an empty piece of land, awesome volunteers, and a vision for something better. If one group of officers could create this in their own city, then imagine the impact if every community had a place like this where trust could grow, and families could gather. One trail at a time and one ride at a time officers can help weave stronger communities and brighter futures. ■
QUICK QUOTE
Fast, Easy, and Made for Our First Responders
Your time is valuable. You protect and serve every day, and PFIA wants to protect you just as quickly. That’s why we created PFIA Quick Quote – a brand-new way for members to get a life insurance offer in 10 minutes or less
With Quick Quote, applying for PFIA’s trusted life and non-life products has never been easier:
→ Fast Decisions – Most applications approved instantly or within 24-48 hours.
→ Paperless & Simple – Complete the secure online application from anywhere.
→ Easy Payments – Pay your initial premium by credit card.
→ Sign Anywhere – Use secure in-person or remote eSignature.
→ No Medical Requirements – Skip the usual extra steps and get covered faster.
Whether you’re in the station, on break, or at home, you can secure protection for yourself and your loved ones in minutes. This is insurance designed for your schedule, your service, and your peace of mind.
PFIA Quick Quote
Because those who protect others deserve protection without delay.
Life Products:
• Final Expense Whole Life
• One Pay Life
• Select Whole Life
• Yearly Renewable Term
• 10-Year, 20-Year, or 30-Year Level Term
Accident & Sickness Products
• Accidental Death
• Accident Only
• Accident Sickness & Disability
• Cancer Protection
Get in Touch
Ask your PFIA Agent today and experience the fastest way we’ve ever offered coverage. www.pfia1913.org
CAMP
9-13 JUNE
Kansas — Camp Fury is hosted each year by the Kansas City, KS Police & Fire Departments and Kansas City, MO Police & Fire Departments, with several other smaller metro-area departments sending instructors to assist. Kansas City, KS hosts two days, Kansas City, MO hosts two days, and the final day is dedicated to team building, photos, and a semiformal graduation, where participants see us in uniform and receive awards from the founding board members for completing the Kansas City camp.
It is a week long camp run entirely by women in first responder careers (EMS, police, and fire), and it is open only to high school–aged girls. The purpose of the camp is to introduce these young women to these careers and give them frontrow, hands-on experiences with what each field offers, with the goal of inspiring future interest. They learn CPR, take a self-defense class, complete a physical agility obstacle course, receive their own fitted fire gear and bag for the week, and are issued a police duty belt with a
FURY KANSAS & MISSOURI
weighted training gun and handcuffs. They rappel from a building, climb the aerial, cut holes in a roof, work DUI checkpoints and wear drunk goggles, extinguish a car fire, deploy stop sticks, complete a confidence box (fire), cut apart a vehicle, throw ladders, and participate in search and rescue. At the end of the fire days, they take part in water wars to cool off.
They gain skills in team building, gear familiarization, and trust—in themselves and in their team leads and instructors. Most importantly, we see a clear transformation from day one to day five as they build personal confidence. We provide drinks, snacks, and lunch each day, made possible entirely through donations. Campers also pay a registration fee that covers two shirts (one blue, one red), bags, water bottles, and other Camp Fury items.
For the past two years, PFIA has sponsored at least two campers (covering their registration fees) and has donated additional funds toward food and drinks for the entire group. This year’s sponsored campers were Madison Miller and Kylie Enriquez. (Pictured above with PFIA Agent Kimberly Adriano) The 2025 session was our largest ever, with 28 campers.
They were divided into seven groups of four, with each group assigned one police lead and one fire lead. On police days, PD manages the stations with Fire assisting; on fire days, each station has at least two firefighters with PD assisting.
The camp took place June 9–13 at the Kansas City, Kansas Fire Department; Kansas City, Missouri Police Academy; and Kansas City, Missouri Fire Department.
Pedaling Toward Partnership:
In cities across America, police departments are rediscovering one of their most effective community-building tools: the bicycle. What might look like a simple patrol bike actually represents a powerful shift in how officers connect with residents, prevent crime, and build trust. From the streets of New Bedford, Massachusetts, to neighborhoods right here in Carmel, Indiana, police on bicycles are demonstrating that visibility, accessibility, and engagement still matter.
A National Return to the Pedal Patrol
In September 2025, the New Bedford Police Department announced a new chapter in its communitypolicing program, one that placed officers back on bicycles in key neighborhoods. The department expanded its bicycle unit, training and certifying new officers to conduct regular patrols throughout the city. Five new e-bikes were added to the fleet, joining ten existing patrol bicycles.
“When our officers are on bikes, they’re more accessible to the community,” said New Bedford Police Chief Jason Thody in the department’s announcement. “Bike patrol combines the benefits of foot patrol with the ability to cover greater distances and respond quickly to emergencies.”
-New Bedford Guide
That simple statement captures why bicycle policing is experiencing a revival. Officers on bikes can go places cars cannot: narrow alleys, busy parks, festival crowds, and downtown areas thick with pedestrians. More importantly, they can stop, talk, and interact. Children wave. Residents approach. Conversations happen naturally. In an era when many police
departments seek to rebuild relationships with their communities, that kind of visibility is priceless.
Policing on Two Wheels: What Makes It Work
Bicycle patrols offer a blend of mobility and approachability unmatched by car patrols. Officers can respond rapidly while remaining part of the environment around them. They hear the chatter, the commotion, the tension, and can sense problems before they escalate.
In New Bedford, officers assigned to bicycle patrols are tasked with being both guardians and ambassadors. They’re visible deterrents to crime, but they’re also approachable figures who can engage with business owners, residents, and young people alike.
The department’s new bicycle initiative aligns closely with the philosophy that drives many Operations Division’s, the backbone of the police department.
The Heart of the Department: The Operations Division
The Operations Division is the largest and most visible arm of
Akron Police Community Engagement Team - Bike Unit
many police department’s across the country. Its men and women are the officers citizens see every day, the faces behind the wheel of a marked police car, the first responders to 911 calls, and the protectors who maintain order and peace within the community.
They are, in every sense, the department’s front-line ambassadors. Whether responding to emergencies, locating missing persons, investigating traffic crashes, or simply reassuring a resident who calls for help. These officers define what community service looks like.
The quality of life that residents enjoy today can be credited, in large part, to the consistency and professionalism of this division. The Operations Division provides 24-hour coverage, 365 days a year, ensuring that every call for service, large or small, receives an immediate and professional response.
A Shared Mission: Safety Through Presence
Bicycle patrols and vehicle patrols share a common goal: visibility and connection. The more accessible officers are, the safer residents feel, and the more information flows both ways.
This connection is maintained through continuous contact with citizens, neighborhood patrols, and immediate response to both emergency and non-emergency incidents. Officers handle arrests, conduct initial investigations, gather evidence, and enforce traffic laws, all while balancing the department’s larger commitment to service and integrity.
In New Bedford, bicycle patrols extend that same philosophy onto two wheels. The department’s investment in e-bikes, for example, makes it easier for officers to traverse long waterfront areas or
steep neighborhoods while remaining environmentally friendly and approachable.
For many officers, bicycle patrol is about more than getting from point A to point B; it’s about being seen and becoming part of the community they serve.
Why Bikes Matter in Modern Policing
Policing has always evolved with technology, from radios to drones, body cameras to electric vehicles. Yet sometimes, the simplest tools offer the most profound impact.
A police bicycle doesn’t just symbolize fitness or sustainability; it represents accessibility. Officers on bikes can dismount instantly to help a motorist, guide lost tourists, or assist during community events. Their presence reduces barriers and humanizes the badge.
For departments focused on community policing, bicycles are strategic tools for engagement. According to a U.S. Department of Justice report, when officers patrol on bicycles, citizen interactions tend to be more positive and less confrontational. People are simply more comfortable approaching an officer who looks like part of the neighborhood rather than an authority sealed inside a vehicle.
The Common Thread: Service, Safety, and Trust
Police departments demonstrate daily that effective policing begins with service and trust. Whether patrolling by car, bike, or foot, officers embody the department’s mission to protect life and property while building strong community partnerships. Their duties go beyond law enforcement. They’re mentors in schools, first responders at accidents, and the steady presence that reassures
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How Bicycle Patrols Strengthen Community Policing
residents during emergencies. Every interaction, from a traffic stop to a welfare check, contributes to the larger goal of maintaining the town’s exceptional quality of life.
Similarly, New Bedford’s renewed bicycle patrols reflect a modern understanding of public safety, one built on approachability and visibility. Officers who ride alongside residents instead of driving past them can prevent misunderstandings, build relationships, and strengthen trust.
The Future of Patrol: A Balanced Approach
Looking forward, many departments are adopting a hybrid model, combining traditional patrol cars with bike and foot patrols to cover all types of terrain and community needs. While cars provide rapid response and broad coverage, bicycles allow for precision and engagement at street level.
For Carmel’s Operations Division, such balance may prove invaluable. With tens of thousands of calls each year, efficient resource allocation is key. Bicycle patrols could serve as an extension of the Operations Division’s capabilities, particularly in parks, events, and neighborhoods where interaction matters most.
New Bedford’s success provides a useful example: its expansion of the e-bike fleet came through community policing grants and officer certification programs, ensuring safety and professionalism on every ride. Departments like Carmel’s could benefit from similar partnerships and funding opportunities, integrating bikes into regular patrol rotations during warmer months.
Expanding the Reach: Departments Across the Nation
Across the country, departments large and small are recognizing the lasting benefits of bicycle patrol.
Akron, Ohio:
The Akron Police Department Bike Unit plays a vital role in maintaining public safety and strengthening community connections. This specialized team is deployed during large crowd events, political rallies, and times of civil unrest, providing enhanced mobility and rapid response in areas where traditional patrol vehicles cannot easily operate. In addition to ensuring safety, the Bike Unit serves as a visible and approachable presence in the community, fostering
positive interactions between officers and residents while maintaining order in Akron’s most active and populated areas.
Pasadena, Texas:
Bicycle Patrol has allowed the citizens of Pasadena and the officers of the Pasadena Police Department to build better relationships and improve communication by making officers more approachable while patrolling the city. It has led to the Bicycle Patrol Division being requested to attend multiple community and city events to both engage with residents and ensure event safety. Bicycle patrol has also enabled the agency to engage in proactive crime reduction and prevention measures, focusing on high-crime areas with flexible visibility. This approach provides a safer environment for Pasadena’s citizens while also promoting officer wellness through physical activity and variety from routine patrol duties.
Belleville, New Jersey:
The Belleville Police Department’s Patrol Division utilizes bicycle patrols as part of its ongoing mission to enhance community engagement and improve quality of life. When assigned, two Patrol Officers operate as a team and conduct patrols throughout the township, focusing on quality-of-life concerns, positive community interaction, and relationship building with local businesses. Bicycle officers respond to nearby incidents and provide an initial police presence until a patrol unit arrives. Throughout the year, multiple bicycle teams are utilized for community bike rides, walk-toschool escorts, and local functions where they remain highly visible above the crowds.
Bicycle patrols increase engagement because officers are more approachable and visible than when operating in patrol vehicles. Without the physical barrier of a police car,
officers are easily recognized, more relatable, and help humanize law enforcement. Residents are more likely to greet officers, ask questions, and share concerns, offering valuable opportunities to address issues, correct misconceptions, and collaborate on solutions.
Officers assigned to bicycle patrol are more likely to stop for spontaneous conversations with residents and business owners. These interactions provide crime-prevention tips, address quality-of-life issues, and often generate actionable intelligence useful for investigations. Operating at slower speeds increases visibility, deters criminal activity, and allows access to areas unreachable by cars. The quiet and agile nature of bicycle patrols also provides tactical advantages during developing situations. This hands-on style of policing fosters positive encounters and enhances the public’s perception of safety.
Additionally, bicycle patrols support officer wellness by improving physical fitness and reducing stress. Departments consistently receive positive feedback about these units from residents, local leaders, business owners, and the officers themselves, a testament to their success in bridging the gap between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
Indianapolis, Indiana:
Supplemented patrols in Indianapolis reflect the same commitment to connection. The Downtown Indy, Inc. (DII) initiative partners with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) to hire off-duty foot and bike officers, enhancing police visibility during key events and in potential hot spots. Thanks to additional city investment, staffing hours have doubled from 30–40 hours per week to 70–90, with another 40 hours provided by the IMPD Homeless Unit. Altogether,
more than 130 hours of patrol coverage ensure ongoing relationship building, increased visibility, and a stronger sense of safety throughout the district.
Community Policing in Motion
Community policing isn’t a slogan; it’s an action. It happens when an officer waves to a child on the sidewalk, when a driver slows down after seeing a patrol bike ahead, or when a resident feels safe enough to share information because the officer seems approachable.
Whether behind the wheel of a patrol car or pedaling through a city block, the mission remains the same: to serve and protect.
The Operations Division continues to set the standard for reliability, professionalism, and responsiveness. Their round-the-clock dedication ensures that citizens can live and work in safety. Meanwhile, departments like New Bedford, Akron, Pasadena, Belleville, and Indianapolis are proving that adding bicycle patrols to the mix doesn’t just enhance mobility, it deepens the bond between police and the people they serve.
A Legacy of Dedication
The men and women of the Operations Division represent the enduring spirit of law enforcement, one built on duty, honor, and compassion. They are the first on the scene when crises unfold and the steady presence during moments of calm. Their work often goes unseen, but its impact is felt daily in the peace and security that define your communities life.
As more departments across the country adopt innovative patrol strategies, from electric bikes to community partnerships, one truth remains constant: it’s not the vehicle that defines policing, but the commitment of the person behind it.
In every city, from Carmel to New Bedford and beyond, the badge means service, whether it’s worn on an officer’s chest or reflected in the gleam of a bicycle wheel. ■
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It involves inflammation of a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of each foot and connects the heel bone to the toes, known as the plantar fascia.
Plantar fasciitis commonly causes stabbing pain that often occurs with your first steps in the morning. As you get up and move, the pain normally decreases, but it might return after long periods of standing or when you stand up after sitting.
The cause of plantar fasciitis is poorly understood. It is more common in runners and in people who are overweight.
Symptoms
Plantar fasciitis typically causes a stabbing pain in the bottom of your foot near the heel. The pain is usually the worst with the first few steps after awakening, although it also can be triggered by long periods of standing or when you get up from sitting.
Causes
The plantar fascia is a band of tissue, called fascia, that connects your heel bone to the base of your toes. It supports the arch of the foot and absorbs shock when walking.
Tension and stress on the fascia can cause small tears. Repeated stretching and tearing of the facia can irritate or inflame it, although the cause remains unclear in many cases of plantar fasciitis.
Risk factors
Even though plantar fasciitis can develop without an obvious cause, some factors can increase your risk of developing this condition. They include:
• Age. Plantar fasciitis is most common in people between the ages of 40 and 60.
• Certain types of exercise. Activities that place a lot of stress on your heel and attached tissue — such as long-distance running, ballet dancing and aerobic dance — can contribute to the onset of plantar fasciitis.
• Foot mechanics. Flat feet, a high arch or even an
atypical pattern of walking can affect the way weight is distributed when you’re standing and can put added stress on the plantar fascia.
• Obesity. Excess pounds put extra stress on your plantar fascia.
• Occupations that keep you on your feet. Factory workers, teachers and others who spend most of their work hours walking or standing on hard surfaces can be at increased risk of plantar fasciitis.
Complications
Ignoring plantar fasciitis can result in chronic heel pain that hinders your regular activities. You’re likely to change your walk to try to avoid plantar fasciitis pain, which might lead to foot, knee, hip or back problems.
Diagnosis
Plantar fasciitis is diagnosed based on your medical history and physical exam. During the exam, your health care professional will check for areas of tenderness in your foot. The location of your pain can help determine its cause.
Imaging tests
Usually no tests are needed. Your health care professional might suggest an X-ray or MRI to make sure another problem, such as a stress fracture, is not causing your pain.
Sometimes an X-ray shows a piece of bone sticking out from the heel bone. This is called a bone spur. In the past, these bone spurs were often blamed for heel pain and removed surgically. But many people who
have bone spurs on their heels have no heel pain.
Treatment
Most people who have plantar fasciitis recover in several months with conservative treatment, such as icing the painful area, stretching, and modifying or staying away from activities that cause pain.
Medicines
Pain relievers you can buy without a prescription such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, etc.) and naproxen sodium (Aleve) can ease the pain and inflammation of plantar fasciitis.
Therapies
Physical therapy or using special devices might relieve symptoms. Treatment may include:
Physical therapy. A physical therapist can show you exercises to stretch the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon and to strengthen lower leg muscles. A therapist also might teach you to apply athletic taping to support the bottom of your foot.
Night splints. Your care team might recommend that you wear a splint that holds the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon in a lengthened position overnight to promote stretching while you sleep.
Orthotics. Your health care professional might prescribe off-the-shelf or custom-fitted arch supports, called orthotics, to distribute the pressure on your feet more evenly.
Walking boot, canes or crutches. Your health care professional might suggest one of these for a brief period either to keep you from moving your foot or to keep
you from placing your full weight on your foot.
Surgical or other procedures.
If more-conservative measures aren’t working after several months, your health care professional might recommend:
Injections. Injecting steroid medicine into the tender area can provide temporary pain relief. Multiple shots aren’t recommended because they can weaken your plantar fascia and possibly cause it to rupture.
Platelet-rich plasma obtained from your own blood can be injected into the tender area to promote tissue healing. Ultrasound imaging during injections can assist in precise needle placement.
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy. Sound waves are directed at the area of heel pain to stimulate healing. This is for chronic plantar fasciitis that hasn’t responded to more-conservative treatments. Some studies show promising results, though this therapy hasn’t been shown to be consistently effective.
Ultrasonic tissue repair. This minimally invasive technology uses ultrasound imaging to guide a needlelike probe into the damaged plantar fascia tissue. The probe tip then vibrates rapidly to break up the damaged tissue, which is suctioned out.
Surgery. Few people need surgery to detach the plantar fascia from the heel bone. It is generally an option only when the pain is serious and other treatments have failed. It can be done as an open procedure or through a small incision with local anesthesia.
Lifestyle and home remedies.
To reduce the pain of plantar fasciitis, try these self-care tips:
Maintain a healthy weight. Extra weight can put extra stress on your plantar fascia.
Choose supportive shoes. Buy shoes with a low to moderate heel, thick soles, good arch support and extra cushioning. Don’t wear flats or walk barefoot.
Don’t wear worn-out athletic shoes. Replace your old athletic shoes before they stop supporting and cushioning your feet.
Change your sport. Try a lowimpact sport, such as swimming or bicycling, instead of walking or jogging.
Apply ice. Hold a cloth-covered ice pack over the area of pain for 15 minutes three or four times a day to help reduce pain and swelling. Or try rolling a frozen bottle of water under your foot for an ice massage.
Stretch your arches. Simple home exercises can stretch your plantar fascia, Achilles tendon and calf muscles.
1 cup diced mushrooms (optional, adds a deep earthy flavor)
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 1 more minute.
Add rice and herbs:
Add wild rice, broth, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Stir well. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat and simmer (covered) for 45–50 minutes, or until rice is tender.
Add mushrooms and chicken (optional):
Stir in mushrooms and shredded chicken. Simmer another 10 minutes.
Thicken the soup:
In a small bowl, whisk the flour (or cornstarch) into the milk until smooth. Slowly stir this mixture into the soup. Simmer another 5–10 minutes, until thickened and creamy.
Season and serve:
Add salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve warm with crusty bread.
WILD RICE
Autumn soup
1½ cups cooked shredded chicken (optional for heartier version)
1 cup unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk (or cream if preferred)
2 tbsp. flour or cornstarch (for thickening)
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley or thyme for garnish
For Sale or For Swap
is for firefighters or law enforcement officers who have items to swap or sell, or are looking for items to add to a collection. There is no charge for this service, but we ask that you follow one rule: items advertised must relate to your profession as firefighters and/or law enforcement officers.
PFIA solely makes it possible for you to contact one another. PFIA does not accept any responsibility for transactions. To participate, e-mail your name, contact information, & ad information to rbrownson@pfia.net.
PATCHES
Looking to grow police/ fire patch collection. If you have patches you would like to part with, please send to Shannon McCarty at 20 Nicole Court Lakewood, NJ 08701.
Kansas fire engineer wanting to trade fire and EMS patches. Have extra patches from other depts. E-mail and we can find out if there are others you would want to trade. Contact Tim Dokken, at tim.dokken81@gmail. com or send patch to Tim Dokken 1028 W. Ash St., Junction City, KS 66441.
Looking to grow my fire patch collection. Captain Jeff Fuchs, Carmel Fire Department, 2214 Mozart Drive, Greenfield, IN 46140. 317-695-8969
Looking to trade my police departments patch. New patch for new patch. Contact: John Kerrigan, 3804 Fairhaven Court, Midland, TX 79707. jkerrigan@ midlandtexas.gov
Wanted: Complete set of 50 state police patches from each one of the 50 states to mount in a frame.
Contact: 401-946-6467.
You may use any address and/or telephone number you wish.
OTHER
Retired Cleveland Police Officer Bob Guttu’s book, “Community Policing (It Really Works).” Contact: Bob Guttu at rguttu@ clevelandpolicefoundation. org.
Custom-designed blankets with PD/FD logos. Choice of colors to match department and company patches. Contact NHRF&R FF Stefan S. Vassallo at 973-768-1049 or Sv145@aol.com. 50x60, 80% cotton 20% poly, $65 Free shipping in the Continental US.
Fire bike painting commemorating 9/11 by artist Motor Marc Lacourciere. A framed giclee collector’s piece, #2 of 250, $500. Contact: William Irby at 386-3168275 or skipirby@aol.com
I would like to swap challenge coins with other officers or agencies. One for One. I also sell them for $10 each plus $5 for shipping. Sandra Torres at 903-221-6344
1000s of FOP pins to sell from all states. Call Patsy McKinney at 936-647-7415 mckinneypatsy@yahoo.com
Wanted: I collect antique fire memorabilia and any items from Wilmington, DE Fire Department. Contact E. Tickner at bat6wfd@ verizon.net or call 302-5986038 and leave a message.
I have pictures available for anyone interested. Duty holster $165 and tactical holster $195 retail. I’m willing to sell both for $250. Contact Det. Brian Jeffers at 720-810-0856
For Sale: A Fireman’s Log, a collection of poems written by a fireman. Titles include, Fireman’s Pole, A Fireman’s Wife, A Fireman’s Coat and more. $5 each plus $2 shipping. Contact Huey Hoover at hjh.33sd@gmail. com or phone 985-542-6434
Firefighter/paramedic of the Independence Fire District would like to trade fire, EMS, or police challenge coins for one of our fire challenge coins. Email me or mail me your coin and I will return the favor.10409 Sharpsburg Drive Independence, KY 41051 dcoyle@ independencekyfire.org
Honeywell brand new Nighthawk leather boots, size 8.5 $300
Stream light survivor flashlight, with battery pack, $50 MSA gear bag with wheels and pull out handle, 24” long, $50
Contact: Kevin Lillis at kevron1@aol.com or phone 716-207-0395
Unique Dallas Love Field-Station 21 (ARFF) Challenge coins for sale $20 each. Includes S&H. Contact: Michael Prelle cell: 940-902-4267 or mickdfd11@gmail.com
Audrey Farmer
audreyfarmer210@gmail.com
Selling 3 Unit Harrison Twp. Challenge coins $10 a coin
Georgia — In September 2025, Director Myles Christie presenting Brenda Thomas a PFIA watch.
Ohio — In September 2025, Regional Manager Mark Reuss presenting Agent Lee Parker with a PFIA watch.
Breast Cancer
In October, we honored the survivors, remember those we’ve lost, and support the warriors still fighting. Breast cancer affects 1 in 8 women— and countless families. It touches our colleagues, our loved ones, and our communities. Together, we are stronger. Together, we are hopeful. Together, we fight.
Check out our Cancer plan
www.pfia1913.org/cancer.html
CONTACT Information
Executive Committee
John
Departments
Accounting Lead
Sherrie Vermande
Accounting
Nancy Brown
Margaret Snyder
Jennifer Ireland
Kandyce Shoffner
Accounting/ACH
Carolyn Plummer
Agency/Commissions
Amanda Hendricks
Claims Examiner
Mindy Roberts
Claims
Karen Groff
Sheila Borst
Creative Services/Editor
Rebekah Brownson
General Services
Kayla Borowicz
Human Resources
Donna Walton
Information Services
Chris Marlor
Sunpreet Johal
Michael Harrison
Member Services
Anne Karn
Christina Coan
New Business
Brittanie Butcher
Heather Starwalt
Krystal Henderson
Office Lead
Tanyia Elston
Secretary to the Executives
Susan Shinabarger-Woolf
Shipping & Receiving
Cristian Bell
Statutory Accounting
Karen Doctor
Association Offices
Chairman of the Board
Mike Carrigan
Regional Managers
Southeast
Myles Christie 706-951-9620 (C) pfia567@gmail.com
Louisiana Gary Ralph 318-426-4034 (C) garyralph874@gmail.com
Texas
Darren “Lang” Spencer 979-716-6193 (C) lspencer_pfia@yahoo.com
Midwest Mark Reuss 513-706-1287 mark.pfia@gmail.com
Northeast
Alan “Tom” Evans, Jr. 716-628-4774 (C) nypfia@gmail.com
Directory of Advisory Board Members & Account Representatives
Our members are in a unique position to spot missing children. PFIA urges you to make a special effort to try to locate these missing children. If seen, contact the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children immediately at 1-800-843-5678 or report a sighting online at www.missingkids.com. You may also call or visit the website for free abduction prevention tips.
MISSING • HELP BRING ME HOME
Kalia L. Hobbs
Sex: Female
Missing Since: November 24, 2025
Missing From: Ithaca, NY
Sex: Female
Missing Since: March 13, 2007
Missing From: Berkeley, MO
to 25 years
Sex: Female
Missing Since: September 26, 2025 Missing From: Norman, OK
Sex: Female
Missing Since: December 9, 2024
Missing From: Lafayette, IN
Sex: Male
Missing Since: June 13, 2025 Missing From: Greensboro, NC
Sex: Male
Missing Since: April 11, 2025
Missing From: Savannah, GA
Maria Melgar-Alas
Bryson Love
Kelly Allen
Molly Allen
Caden Wilson
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