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LESS THAN A WEEK TO GET INVOLVED WITH BURN, THE DETROIT FIRE FILM!
BURN is an action-packed and inspiring documentary about Detroit, told through the eyes of the men and women of the Detroit Fire Department, who are charged with saving a city that many have written off as dead. It’s a story that resonates in many American cities, as heroic first responders soldier on in the face of severe budget cuts.
Until now no one has properly explored these issues, and these heroes, with the depth and detail they deserve. BURN needs your help and it’s not too late to be a part of this very important independent film.
There is less than a week left to help BURN complete the funding for the film. Your donations will not only help get this important story out to mass audiences but a portion of the proceeds will go to the Leary Foundation to get much needed gear into the hands of Detroit firefighters.
To make a donation visit BURN’s campaign at Kickstarter and be a part of something great! To sweeten the deal, there are pledge package rewards that include exclusive BURN t-shirts, tickets to the Detroit or LA premiere, a film poster signed by Denis Leary and the filmmakers, backstage passes to the set of Boardwalk Empire, starring former firefighter Steve Buscemi, and much more.
Donations close December 1st be a hero for BURN and donate today!
Links for Kickstarter, FB, Twitter and official website
http://detroitfirefilm.org
http://www.facebook.com/burnfilm
http://www.twitter.com/detroitfirefilm
http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/detroitfirefilm/burn
I took the past weekend off. The entire weekend (actually about 4-5 days) from everything but my family.
I know many of you are waiting to hear what I have to say about Dave Statter’s announcement that he is my father. I assure you my father is a much more dignified man than Dave Statter. My father is my hero and was a great father. I am thankful for him and having been able to spend time with him and most of my extended family in Nashville this past weekend including my little nephew Sebastian.
I did get to finally watch the video this morning that Dave put together. Well done Dave. Apparently counseling isn’t working out as planned. Hillary and I have worked out a 12 step program for you. You will also be appearing in an episode of “Intervention” soon. Good luck.
Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving was excellent with my family. There is so much to be thankful for. My wife and my children are at the top. I am thankful for our health and well-being.
I also got to do a ton more traveling this year. Willie Wines Jr. and I are thankful for all of the doors opened to us. The people we got to meet and hang out with in NYC, New Jersey, Cincinnati, Wyoming (city), Loveland, Mason, Johns Creek, Atlanta, Indianapolis, Baltimore, Emmitsburg, Prince George’s County, and elsewhere along the way. You guys have been great. Thank you for all you have done to make our trips worth it.
We also got to hang out with Zach Green a bunch. He and his family opened their home to us and welcomed us like part of the family. Thank you.
Billy Goldfeder hooked us up in NYC and then welcomed us in Loveland. We will not be able to repay you, but we would be happy to try.
A special thanks to the crew at the NFFF Memorial Service, you all are the best.
The crew at Fire Rescue Magazine, Go Forward Media, and FireRescue1 have remained great friends and family. Thank you for everything.
There are so many others. I am blessed to have such a network of friends, companions, and peers.
A special thanks to my crew at Roanoke Firehouse #3. Mac, Eric, Dave, Jason, Brad, and Drew have made my life at the firehouse a blast. We have a great time and have become great friends and firefighters together.
Black Sunday
I would like to end this with a message from The Secret List about FDNY Lt. Joey DiBernardo and Black Sunday:
Joey is the FDNY Lieutenant who was found at home last week, he had passed away, at age 40. While Joey had a stellar career as a Volunteer Firefighter (and former Captain with the Hook & Ladder Company of the highly respected Setauket FD in Suffolk County, Long Island, New York) - he was also a very well known and popular FDNY Dispatcher, but the last chapter of his career was what he was so proud of-being a member of the FDNY and especially, Rescue Company 3.
There is the fact that he followed in his Dad’s footsteps. Chief DiBernardo is a highly respected (now retired) FDNY Deputy Chief and Division Commander. He is the kind of Chief whose reputation was no non-sense-and who deeply respected “the potential” of the job….and who understood his deep responsibility for the members operating under his command. Those under his command knew he was strictly business. As it has to be. As he guided his Son.
As his Dad told the media last week: “He (Joey) never fully recovered from 9/11 and since ‘Black Sunday’ – he has been in terrible pain and agony,” said Chief DiBernardo, who served 35 years in the department. “After all these years, he has been in physical pain and the mental pain. His whole life had been the FDNY .”
Joey was one of 6 Firefighters who were forced to jump out of the windows as they were trapped by fire in The Bronx “chapter” of Black Sunday, January 23, 2005. Lt. Curtis Meyran, 46, covering Ladder 27 and Firefighter John Bellew, 37, of Ladder 27, died after jumping that day. When the fire caught them, they were faced with a horrifying choice. They jumped out a fourth-floor window, knowing that it was really bad. Firefighters Jeffrey Cool, Joseph DiBernardo, Eugene Stolowski, and Cawley were very, very badly hurt at that fire.
Watch these videos:
This video is a media story about Joey DiBernardo. It will show you who he was and what he was made of. It’s worth you watching-it’s a wonderful story (when you see him on video, you’ll understand) involving a horrific event – leading to a tragic and deeply sad ending. It will also allow you to hear from his Father as well as his “Brother” FDNY FF, Jeff Cool, who was also trapped-who will tell you all you need to know about Joey.
The link to the 1st video is here
The second video is the “Readers Digest” version of the fire-that day-in 2005-in The Bronx. Watching it, seeing the pictures and hearing the audio will help you-no matter where you are or where you are from-get somewhat of an understanding of the conditions they (and especially Joey) faced-and what decisions they (and he) had to make that day.
FUNERAL / MEMORIAL SERVICE INFO: Visitation today:
Bryant Funeral Home – 411 Old Town Road – Setauket, 2-4 & 7-9
Firematic Services tonight: 8pm
Funeral: tomorrow, Monday-St James RC 429 Route 25a–Setauket-11am.
More about “Black Sunday”
January 23, 2005 a Dark Day in FDNY History
Sunday, January 23, 2005 will forever be remembered as a dark and devastating day for the New York City Fire Department, when we lost three brave members in two separate incidences: Lt. Curtis W. Meyran of Battalion 26 and Lt. John G. Bellew of Ladder 27, both in the Bronx, and Firefighter Richard T. Sclafani of Ladder 103 in Brooklyn.
All three members were laid to rest the last week of January amid a sea of family, friends and thousands of Department members who came to celebrate the lives of these heroic men. Lieutenant Meyran and Lieutenant Bellew made the Supreme Sacrifice at a third-alarm fire located at 236 E. 178th Street in the Mount Hope section of the Bronx. Meyran and Bellew, along with Firefighters Joseph P. DiBernardo and Jeffrey G. Cool of Rescue 3 and Firefighters Eugene Stolowski and Brendan K. Cawley of Ladder 27, were forced to jump from a fourth floor rear window after they became trapped above the fire while performing searches for reported trapped occupants. They were among the first units to respond to the mid-morning blaze.
Lieutenants Meyran and Bellew were transported to St. Barnabas Hospital where they both succumbed to their injuries. Firefighters DiBernardo, Cool, Stolowski and Cawley were all transported to area hospitals in critical condition. Later that afternoon, the Department suffered another devastating loss. Firefighter Sclafani made the Supreme Sacrifice Sacrifice after responding to a second-alarm fire at 577 Jerome Street in the East New York section of Brooklyn. Firefighter Sclafani and members of Ladder 103 entered the basement where the fire started and began searching both for the location of the fire and to rescue any trapped occupants. During these search operations, Firefighter Sclafani became separated from his colleagues. He was found minutes later unconscious and in respiratory arrest on the cellar staircase. Firefighter Sclafani was transported to Brookdale Hospital where he died a short time later.(source)
Several months ago, Dave Statter did some amatuerish fake reporting stating that I did not exist. I admit, Dave got me good…which wasn’t hard since he has been stalking me for years now. The only reason why I am not in the video is because he called to say he was coming into town…so I got the hell out of town.
Some might say that I got him better with my post here. By some, I mean even Dave according to close friends.
I though the videos that Dave did were humorous. However, so many of Dave’s readers and even some of mine actually bought it and thought that I really DON”T exist.
Unfortunately, I have to set the record straight. It still amuses me that so many fell for it, yet professionally it has people wondering what the hell the truth is.
The truth is that I do exist. I am a Lieutenant (engineer with acting ability when my Captain is off). I have been with my department for almost 13 years. The department I work for is an Urban department in Virginia (population 10ok). Previously, I was a volunteer and also worked for a much larger EMS department (both also in Virginia). I have mentioned the departments in the past and it is very easy to figure out what department I work for (watch the video below).
What is also very amusing is that all of these firefighters believe Dave Statter. Dave was never a firefighter. He claims he was, but I assure you he was not. He might have been a member of a department for a couple of hours, but then decided just to report on it. Dave is a reporter…hell, that isn’t even true anymore. They fired him. It is unfortunate, and Dave doesn’t like to talk about it.
The reason why Dave feels the need to discredit me is because I am everything he is not…I am young and I am a firefighter. I am much more than that, but I don’t need to go on.
- I would never mention how his wife has a huge crush on me.
- How I have been blogging a lot longer than Dave.
- I wouldn’t even think about mentioning at how I discovered Dave when he started blogging and helped him along getting him his first readers.
- It would be callous of me to even think of bringing up the fact that when Dave visited the station where I work the firefighters caught him smelling my gear.
And that is only the beginning…what about all of the phone calls Willie and I get from Dave when we are travelling. Dave constantly bothers us wondering what we are doing and when we will let him tag along in the future (which will never happen).
Not that I am looking for any validation, but I have been a trooper through this whole thing. It is kinda weird having a stalker. Especially when it is a grown man. Seriously, Dave won’t leave me alone. I have to watch my back.
On a recent trip up to Maryland, Dave invited Willie and I over. We didn’t realize that Dave was going to be there…awkward. Dave spent 3 hours questioning Willie on what it was like to travel with me, what my favorite color was, and about the fires I have been in.
So there you have it. I do exist, I run numerous web sites, have been blogging for around 7 years, a career firefighter for 13, volunteer before that, and I like long walks on the beach…just as long as Dave isn’t stalking me.
Below are the videos that Dave posted about me not existing. I admit that they are pretty good for a hack.
The wait is over! Here is the 2012 list for the Top Ten Female Firefighter Calendars. If you are looking for the Male firefighting calendars look here: Top Ten 2012 Male Firefighter Calendars
I do this as a public service of course…you guys can buy me a beer later!
Each year, the Top Ten Firefighter Calendar article grows a little bit more. In 2010, the list was merely female firefighter calendars. In 2011, it included both female and male calendars. Here we are in 2012 and we have split them into two lists of their own. Be sure to share this article with others. Remember…they are for great causes.
*if you have a calendar, be sure to notify me when yours comes out next year so it can be included. I still find it amazing at how difficult it is to find information on some of these calendars….
Past years Top Ten Calendars lists are below:
10. New Mexico’s Hottest Firefighter Calendar
Website - Purchase - (coed calendar)
Created by: New Mexico’s Hottest
Charities: The organization is for-profit and a portion of the funds raised are donated directly to charity.
Firefighters working in the State of New Mexico are invited to compete in the calendar competition.
Read more about the charities here
9. Colorado Firefighter Calendar
#3 in 2011, #7 in 2010
Website- Facebook - Purchase - (coed calendar)
Created by: Fired up for Kids
Charities: Fired Up For Kids is an organization that creates and produces the Colorado Firefighter Calendar. Firefighters from all over the state of Colorado donate many hours of their time each year to help Fired Up For Kids fundraise and raise awareness for The Children’s Hospital Burn Center. These men and women represent one of the noblest professions, and this calendar is a tribute to them as well as the children they help every day.
Fired Up For Kids donates a portion of the proceeds received from special events and sales of The Colorado Firefighter Calendar to The Children’s Hospital Burn Center. The burn center is committed to providing the highest standard of burn care to neonates, infants, children, and adolescents up to 21 years of ages in the Rocky Mountain region. For more information about The Children’s Hospital Burn Center, visit www.tchden.org.
8. Fire Girls Calendar
#6 in 2011, #6 in 2010
Website – Facebook – Twitter – Purchase
Created by: FireGirls
Charities: none
More info: For the FireGirls Calendar, the most successful firefighters’ calendar for the last 10 years, the astonishing FireGirls plunge into the firefighting action. Only the most experienced and fire-crazy models get the highly sought after predicate of “FireGirls”. The shootings take place at some of the most beautiful locations and amazing settings in the world.
In the center of the action: the utilization of real world equipment and genuine firefighting settings. The high quality of the imagery makes the FireGirls Caledar a unique worldwide endeavour.
7. Guts & Glamour Connecticut Female Firefighter Calendar
Created by: Shelly Sindland
Charities: A portion of the proceeds to benefit 9/11 fund for first-responders
More info: For the first time ever, Connecticut female firefighters are getting their fair share of the spotlight in a 2012 calendar showcasing both career and volunteer firefighters from around the State.
The women are photographed in evening gowns with a touch of their firefighter side in each picture. (some are more obvious than others) As the photographer, art director, publicist and now fan, I wanted to showcase these incredibly strong women in a different light. My point, to show that not one thing defines them. To me, they represent the many layers of today’s modern woman. She is multifaceted, wears many hats, and in many cases, volunteers to put her life on the line for you!
6. New Zealand Female Firefighters Calendar
Created by: New Zealand Firefighter Sports Association
Charities: The Child Cancer Foundation has been the principal recipient of a donation for the past 20 years, and we have proudly donated to them over $500,000.
The Calendar has now been in production for 22 years, and has a well established and dedicated following, throughout its history. Every year Firefighters from around the country raise their hands to become part of what is now a New Zealand tradition. The Calendar allows firefighters the opportunity to proactively fundraise to assist them in their international sporting endeavours, as well as raise a substantial amount of money for our charities.
5. Too Hot to Handle
#10 in 2010
Created by: Zebra Publishing
Charities: NA
More info: It doesn’t get much hotter than this! Although they’re well-equipped to manage the flames, this firefighting shift generates their own red-hot heat. The models in Too Hot To Handle 2012 will cause spontaneous combustion all year. Photographed by Glenn Grainger, images are featured in an oversized 12″ x 24″ poster sized format. Smokin’ hot!
4. QLD Female Firefighters Calendar
Created by: QFRS
Charities: By purchasing this firefighters calendar helps, raise money for The Children’s Hospital at Westmead Burns Unit.
These Firies are a dedicated fundraising team. The Children’s Hospital at Westmead Burns Unit has been given over $114,000.00 by these firefighters over the last 5 years.
Queensland firefighters are among the best in the world. They work with professionalism and dedication under difficult and stressful conditions. All too often they see people with painful and disfiguring burns received during a fire.
During a long history of supporting the Royal Children’s Hospital Burns Unit, Queensland firefighters have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to help alleviate the pain and suffering of the children admitted each year.
3. Female Firefighters Calendar 2012 (Queensland)
Created by: QFRS
Charities: Cancer Council Queensland
More info: After the over whelming success of our 2009 Calendar we are back to bare it all again. These firewomen of the QFRS, normally hot and sweaty behind the scenes find themselves in front of the camera yet again in the name of charity – to help raise funds for Breast Cancer and the Pink Ribbon Appeal.
Fire Fighters, Fire Girls, Fire Women , Fire Ladies… what ever you want to call them …. they are HOTTER than ever!
All the women, who are full time firefighters in the Queensland Fire Service have banded together with selected sponsors to help raise money and awareness for Breast Cancer and the Cancer Council Queensland.
2. Firehouse Dolls
#2 in 2011, #5 in 2010
Website – Facebook – Twitter – Purchase
Created by: FireCompanies.com
Charities: Volunteer Fire Departments
More info: Firehouse Dolls is firefighter owned and operated. Our Calendars and DVD’s feature Beautiful Female Firefighters, EMT’s, Paramedics. Dispatchers and any Pretty Girl associated with the fire/rescue service. Paid and Volunteer!
A portion of the sales of our products are donated to random volunteer fire departments. The models go to trade shows every year to sell and autograph our products. Please look for the models at the next trade show you are attending.
And as always if you know a pretty girl that would be interested in modeling, please have her contact us. Thank you for your continued interest in FIREHOUSE DOLLS!.
1. America’s Female Firefighters
#1 in 2011, #5 in 2010
Created by: America’s Female Firefighter’s Inc.
Charities: Several centered around burn victims. Read more here
More info: AFF’s mission is to Raise and Expend funds for the benefit of burn survivors across the United States. Raising Awareness and Educating about fire safety and treatment of burn injuries. We do this by producing the America’s Female Firefighters Calendar. The pages of the AFF calendar are graced with ladies from across the United States, and all of which serve their communities as paid full-time firefighters. The women who are selected to be featured in the calendar exemplify good health, fitness and moral character, and are dedicated to their profession in the fire service. For our family of AFF ladies, it is not about being a “Calendar Girl”, but rather being able to “GIVE BACK” and make a difference.
Welcome to this years Top Ten Male Firefighter Calendars. Don’t worry men…The 2012 Top Ten Female Firefighter Calendars can be found here.
I do this as a public service of course… For the ladies!
Each year, the Top Ten Firefighter Calendar article grows a little bit more. In 2010, the list was merely female firefighter calendars. In 2011, it included both female and male calendars. Here we are in 2012 and we have split them into two lists of their own. Be sure to share this article with others. Remember…they are for great causes.
*if you have a calendar, be sure to notify me when yours comes out next year so it can be included. I still find it amazing at how difficult it is to find information on some of these calendars….
Past years Top Ten Calendars lists are below:
10. New Zealand Firefighters Calendar
#9 in 2011
Created by: New Zealand Firefighter Sports Association
Charities: The Child Cancer Foundation has been the principal recipient of a donation for the past 20 years, and we have proudly donated to them over $500,000.
The Calendar has now been in production for 22 years, and has a well established and dedicated following, throughout its history. Every year Firefighters from around the country raise their hands to become part of what is now a New Zealand tradition. The Calendar allows firefighters the opportunity to proactively fundraise to assist them in their international sporting endeavours, as well as raise a substantial amount of money for our charities.
9. Firefighters Calendar - New South Wales
#10 in 2011
Created by: QFRS
Charities: By purchasing this firefighters calendar helps, raise money for The Children’s Hospital at Westmead Burns Unit.
These Firies are a dedicated fundraising team. The Children’s Hospital at Westmead Burns Unit has been given over $114,000.00 by these firefighters over the last 5 years.
Queensland firefighters are among the best in the world. They work with professionalism and dedication under difficult and stressful conditions. All too often they see people with painful and disfiguring burns received during a fire.
During a long history of supporting the Royal Children’s Hospital Burns Unit, Queensland firefighters have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to help alleviate the pain and suffering of the children admitted each year.
8. 2012 Greater Vancouver Hall of Flame Charity Calendar
Created by: IAFF Local 18
Charities: The Greater Vancouver Fire Fighters featured in this years calendar appear at various fundraisers all with the purpose to promote the calendar in support of the Burn Fund and various other charities including the CKNW Orphan’s Fund.
Local 18 was pleased to donate $50,000.00 to assist in a room renovation at the Cancer Lodge in Vancouver in honour of cancer surviver Vancouver Fire Fighter Les Whyte. We were proud to be a part of the project which was was designed to commit to the Children and Citizens of British Columbia the re-building of a facility which will be a supportive place to stay while undergoing cancer treatment.
Over the past 25 YEARS the Vancouver Fire Fighters have raised over 1 million dollars for these charities. To all that have lent their support thank you.
7. Firefighters Without Borders
Created by: Firefighters Without Borders
Charities: Firefighters Without Borders has committed to a 3 year program that will see a team of professional firefighters travel to Honduras twice a year to train both the firefighters and community people in various life saving disciplines, and emergency preparedness principles. In addition to teaching people valuable skills, we will be teaching them to be instructors so that they may go back to community and provide training to others. This initiative will be implemented at the national, municipal and community level, and over the course of the program will reach thousands of people both directly and indirectly over the course of the program.
6. Toronto Fire Fighter Calendar
#8 in 2011
Website – Facebook – Twitter - Purchase
Created by: Toronto Professional Fire Fighters Association (TPFFA) IAFF Local 3888
Charities: The Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation has partnered with the Toronto Professional Fire Fighters’ Association in the fight against cancer by raising funds to support cancer research at Princess Margaret Hospital.
The Fire Fighters’ Cancer Research Fund was established in 1998 to raise money for Princess Margaret Hospital. Since inception, almost $1 million has been raised for this fund. The hospital benefits from a variety of annual firefighters’ fundraising events including the Rob Penney Memorial Slo-Pitch Tournament, Ross Forfar Memorial Golf Tournament, Toronto Fire Fighter Magic Show, and of course, the popular Toronto Fire Fighter Calendar. 100% of proceeds from the calendar and all of these events go directly to the Fire Fighters’ Cancer Research Fund.
5. TFFA Tucson Firefighter Calendar
Created by: Tuscon Firefighters Association IAFF Local 479
Charities: The 2012 Tucson Firefighters Association Firefighter Calendar is a non-profit calendar benefiting a number of local charities throughout Tucson.
The TFFA gives $60,000- $70,000 back to the community yearly by supporting local organizations such as the MDA, American Cancer Society, Juvenile Diabetic Association and the Make-A-Wish foundation just to name a few. Every year we make 1500 Thanksgiving and Christmas food boxes for families in need through our Adopt-A-Family program. The TFFA raises money for its charity fund through various community events such as the Firefighter Chili-Cook-Off, Fill the Boot and the Firefighter Calendar.
4. FDNY Firefighter Calendar
Created by: FDNY
Charities: The only OFFICIAL FDNY calendar featuring REAL New York City firefighters! Get your calendar early! Each year the FDNY Firefighters Calendar is one of the nation’s most anticipated calendars. This year’s FDNY calendar of Heroes features an all-new crew of stunning photographs of actual New York firefighters. This NYC firefighter’s calendar captures the charisma, heroism and pride of New York’s “Bravest”. We all admire New York City’s Fire Fighters; now you can admire these Firemen every month of the year! Benefits the FDNY Foundation, support the Firefighters of New York by purchasing this great calendar. This is the only FDNY Calendar for 2012.
3. New Mexico’s Hottest Firefighter Calendar
Created by: New Mexico’s Hottest
Charities: The organization is for-profit and a portion of the funds raised are donated directly to charity.
Firefighters working in the State of New Mexico are invited to compete in the calendar competition.
Read more about the charities here
2. Colorado Firefighter Calendar
#3 in 2011, #7 in 2010
Created by: Fired up for Kids
Charities: Fired Up For Kids is an organization that creates and produces the Colorado Firefighter Calendar. Firefighters from all over the state of Colorado donate many hours of their time each year to help Fired Up For Kids fundraise and raise awareness for The Children’s Hospital Burn Center. These men and women represent one of the noblest professions, and this calendar is a tribute to them as well as the children they help every day.
Fired Up For Kids donates a portion of the proceeds received from special events and sales of The Colorado Firefighter Calendar to The Children’s Hospital Burn Center. The burn center is committed to providing the highest standard of burn care to neonates, infants, children, and adolescents up to 21 years of ages in the Rocky Mountain region. For more information about The Children’s Hospital Burn Center, visit www.tchden.org.
1. South Florida Firefighters Calendar
#7 in 2011
Created By: Firefighter Luis Espinosa
Charities: Here’s Help, A Safe Haven for Newborns, Friends Forever Humane Society
The South Florida Firefighter’s Calendar is one of the most successful charity firefighter calendars to date. Our mission is to raise money for various local charities and raise awareness of important community issues.
More Info: To date the South Florida Firefighters Calendar has raised over $240,000 to benefit charities such as the Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Habitat for Humanity’s Hurricane Andrew Fund, Ronald McDonald Children’s Charities, Neighbors 4 Neighbors, Best Buddies, Cystic Fibrosis, Safehaven for Newborns and Here’s Help.
Others worth mentioning:
Homecoming for The Fire Critic in Cincinnati. Another Trip with America’s Fire Captain is in the Books!
No commentsThis past weekend, Willie and I headed to my hometown. I was born in Cincinnati and raised there until the 4th grade. After that I lived in Kansas City, Baltimore, Richmond, and now finally Roanoke. I have only been back to Cincinnati a couple of times since we moved, but I have fond memories of the area and some of the culture found there.
This was yet another trip with “America’s Fire Captain” Willie Wines Jr. You wouldn’t believe the fun we have, the people we meet, the experiences we share, the food we eat, and the miles we drive. Every time we get back, others want to travel with us next time…that is possible…only after the Buckaroo jumps you in!
We got to hang out in Edgewood, Kentucky at the Kenton County Officer Leadership Symposium where I presented, with the Loveland-Symmes Fire EMS, Mason Fire EMS, Chief Billy Goldfeder, Wyoming Fire EMS, Cincinnati Fire Dept., and so many others including an Aussie Kieth Gillespie. Thanks to all for the great time!
I was in town to teach a class on social media for the Kenton County Officer Leadership Symposium. All in all, I think the class went pretty well. The topic of social media is so complex. Some don’t understand it at all, others think it is terrible, yet others are looking for more information for building their social media. I try my best to hit all three types of mindsets. Honestly, the class should be divided into 4-5 classes, but there isn’t enough demand yet. Until then, the basic/novice all encompassing social media class is what I have to offer (besides actual consulting).
Read Willie’s take on the visit here
Keep up with Zach Green and MN8 products on their blog here
Me, Cynthia, and Willie in Kenton County
The guys in Kenton County and surrounding areas were very accommodating and welcoming. Willie and I had a blast as always.
After the class, we even met Cynthia … aka “Ms. May” of the 2012 America’s Female Firefighter Calendar . That was quite a coincidence considering there are only 12 models in the calendar. I am working on my Top 10 calendar post now. AFF was the #1 calendar last year.
As I said, I was in my hometown. Even though I haven’t lived there in around 25 years, I still have very fond memories. Gliers Goetta (aka Cincinnati Caviar), Skyline Chili, Goldstar Chili, Montgomery Inn, White Castle, Graeter’s Ice Cream, and so much more.
Enjoying Goldstar coney's at Paul Brown Stadium
I did get to have some Goldstar Chili at the Cincinnati Bearcats game vs. the WVU Mountaineers. The game was at Paul Brown Stadium where the Bengals play. I grew up watching the Bengals play at their old stadium, this was my first time at PBS.
I also got to have some Goldstar Chili. I am more a fan of Skyline Chili which is similar, but it didn’t work out.
My brother and others told me to get to Montgomery Inn. I don’t quite remember this from my childhood, but they said I would be missing out if I missed it. Unfortunately, we didn’t make it there either.
I did get to have some White Castle sliders and some Graeter’s Ice Cream though.
Mason and Loveland
Willie and Billy in the G-ride
I grew up in Mason and then moved to Loveland. Wouldn’t you know it that Chief Billy Goldfeder’s office is a mere 1/2 mile from my old house in Loveland. Chief Goldfeder gave Willie and I not 1, but 2 awesome tours of both Mason and Loveland. What a trip. We got to see the old Mason firehouse as well as the new fire stations in the area. I have to admit that there are some great guys working in that area. They were very welcoming and we always appreciate getting shown around other firehouses.
Goldfeder also took us by Fuzzy’s house. Fuzzy began volunteering in Mason in 1958. He is now a paid firefighter and has been for a pretty long time. Fuzzy has one the the largest collections of firefighting equipment I have ever seen. He also has a half dozen fire trucks at his house. It was very impressive.
Thank you to all the firefighters, Goldfeder, and Fuzzy for the impromptu tours. We appreciated it immensely.
Chief Goldfeder also made sure that we got to visit Loveland’s Fallen Firefighter Memorial. That was an honor.
City of Wyoming
Me with Captain Washington of Cincinnati at the Flashover Simulator
On our second night, we stayed with our good friend Zach Green of MN8. He opened his home to us. His wife Jennifer baked some of the best brownies and other treats as well. After a night around the camp fire with Zach and some of his friends and fellow firefighters we got up early for some training with the City of Wyoming FD. We headed out with them to Cincinnati’s training grounds for training in a flashover simulator. This would be the first flashover training for Willie and I. We had a blast. Not only was it excellent training, but the crowd we were with were fun to be around.
Needless to say, Willie and I are looking into flashover training for our department.
Special thanks to the City of Wyoming FD, Cincinnati FD, Captain Washington, Lt. Flagler (also a Chief with Wyoming), and others for making it happen!
As always, thanks to Willie for the trip. I wouldn’t have made it back without him. I drove the entire time for the NYC/NJ trip and he came through and drove the entire time on the OH/KY trip. What sucked for him was that I slept the entire way home. I was spent. Even when I woke up occasionally I was dead and went back to sleep. I guess my non-stop running had caught up with me. Willie got us back to his house around 2am and I was in bed at my house at 3am…up again and at work by 630am.
MN8 (Foxfire)
As always, Zach was a great host to Willie and I. He showed us his brand new office for MN8 as well as their brand new helmet tetrahedrons. Zach’s company, technology, and products continue to wow firefighters everywhere. I can only imagine where this technology will be in several years. The applications are endless. If you haven’t had a chance to see the products in person, check them out here. If you have an idea, thought, or improvement be sure to contact MN8! They are quickly creating a substantial following on Facebook as well!
If anyone is looking for information on the social media class I have taught look here. If you are looking for more information, consulting, or for me to teach social media you can contact me at firecritic@firecritic.com. If you would like Willie and I to come ride along with your crew or offer our “motivational” speaking that we are working on right now contact us as well.
Thanks to all who made our trip a blast!
See you on the big one!
Here are some more photos from our trip
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- Me, Zach Green, and Captain Willie Wines Jr.
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- Me in front of Mason's old firehouse
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- The wind vane on Mason's old firehouse
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- Mason's old firehouse
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- The wind vane on Mason's old firehouse
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- Loveland-Symmes Engine 62 and Medic Unit
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- Loveland-Symmes Ohio Engine 62
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- Loveland-Symmes Ohio Engine 62
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- Loveland-Symmes Ohio Engine 62
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- Loveland-Symmes Ohio Engine 62
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- Loveland-Symmes Ohio District Chiefs ride
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- Loveland-Symmes Ohio District Chiefs ride
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- Loveland-Symmes Ohio District Chiefs ride
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- Inside the Flashover Simulator
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- Inside the Flashover Simulator
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- Inside the Flashover Simulator
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- Me, FF Rielage from Fishers, Indiana and Willie Wines Jr.
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- Damn...I make this look good!
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- Hanging out with Wyoming firefighters
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- Cincinnati's Flashover simulator
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- Hanging out with Zach Green's son Bryce. Bryce was a trip!
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- Loveland's original Steamer
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- The class I taught at Kenton County Officer Leadership Symposium
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- Me with Captain Washington of Cincinnati at the Flashover Simulator
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- Willie and Billy in the G-ride
Hal Bruno was laid to rest on Friday, November 11th. Hal was one of the most popular and effective advocates for the fire service…ever. He was an active firefighter for 60 years.
For more than 60 years, Hal Bruno served as an active member of the fire service community, giving selflessly as a dedicated volunteer firefighter, advocate, commentator and leader. He is renowned for his commitment to fire safety initiatives and his compassion for the members of the fire service and their families. (source: NFFF)
It is imperative that our firefighters know and understand who Hal Bruno was and what Hal Bruno stood for. I never met the man, but his legacy will remain as a huge influence on the fire service.
It is important that we teach our firefighters because they will Hal didn’t work on the glorious end of firefighting. He didn’t teach firefighting, or strategy, or tactics, or any of that. Hal fought for the fire service. His legacy did not have to do with how you fought fire, but moreso that you had the tools you needed to fight the fire.
Hal was also a longtime chairman of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.
Bruno was appointed chairman of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation in 1999, a distinction he held until his retirement in 2008. Under Hal’s leadership the NFFF expanded services and resources for the survivors, including workshops, conferences and scholarships. He guided and supported the Foundation in developing safety initiatives for firefighters and advancing safety practices that will help to reduce the number of line of duty deaths and injuries. (source: NFFF)
He died at the age of 83 on election day.
Dave Statter wrote a piece on Hal here that you should definitely read. Dave knew Hal and shares a timeline of events which will give you and understanding about what Hal was about. I should have written something sooner, but I was travelling. I offer this to you now. Read, understand, and share who Hal Bruno was and what Hal Bruno’s legacy stands for.
Links:
Firefighters to Test Advanced Glow Technology Designed To Reduce Disorientation and Improve Safety
3 commentsWHAT: According to a Feb. 2011 report by the US Fire Administration, on average there are more than 81,000 firefighter injuries each year, with 87 percent of those injuries occurring in structure fires.
Another study showed that heavy smoke limited visibility and caused disorientation in 17 incidents in which a total of 23 firefighter fatalities occurred.
In November, firefighters will be testing new personal safety products and way guidance systems that use advanced photoluminescent technology that turns tools, equipment and signage into brightly glowing sources of light in dark conditions without using batteries or electricity.These products are designed to reduce disorientation and help firefighters improve visualization and reach victims faster when seconds can mean life or death.
The 9/11 Commission recognized photoluminescent-enhanced way guidance systems as playing a valuable role in helping occupants quickly evacuate buildings following the 9/11 attacks. This technology is being applied to other products designed to help firefighters including illuminating strips on firefighter turnout gear and glowing helmet bands that allow firefighters to find each other in a dark environment.
The test will be administered by Captain Dave Hudson of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection and the Riverside County Fire Department. Captain Hudson is veteran firefighter who has been training other firefighters for more than 10 years.
WHEN:
Thursday, Nov. 10, 2011, from 10 am – 3 pm
WHERE:
North Net Fire Training Center, 2400 E. Orangewood Ave., Anaheim, CA 92806
WHO:
Professional firefighters from throughout Los Angeles, Orange and Riverside Counties
Local officials and media are invited to observe the test results.
Visuals:
- Firefighters suiting up with photoluminescent safety equipment.
- Firefighters entering a smoke-filled building and performing simulated rescues, drills and time trials.
- Video cameras inside the building allow observers to get a closer look at the simulated rescues. TV cameras can patch into the feed.
More information available here
This is a guest post by By Captain Craig Nielsen, Los Angeles Fire Department
As a 28-year veteran of the fire service, I’ve been involved in flashover survival trainings since 1998, and I’m seeing more and more occurrences of this phenomenon than ever before. Walton and Thomas define a flashover as “the transition from a growing fire to a fully developed fire in which all combustible items in the compartment are involved in fire” although a more simple definition is “the stage when contents and gases are heated to their ignition temperatures and flames break out almost all at once.” As the number of flashover occurrences increase significantly, so do the number of injuries and deaths.
That’s a big reason why I’m hosting a free “Understanding Flashovers” webinar sponsored by Draeger Safety, on November 10, 2011 at 8 PM EST. Firefighters and chiefs interested in participating in this educational session can register at http://draegerfiresafety.com. We’ll also have a live Q&A so your specific questions can be addressed. For now, I’ll cover some of the key questions firefighters are asking.
Why Are So Many Flashovers Occurring?
The increasing occurrence of flashovers has been covered at great length in print, online and broadcast media and it certainly deserves attention. Here are some reasons for the uptick of flashovers:
- Better turnouts. Firefighters are putting themselves in harm’s way unknowingly because firefighters are so well encapsulated.
- Better insulation: Homes are better insulated which is great for the heating bill, but not so great for firefighters. Thermal feedback will occur more rapidly.
- Combustible items: Plastics and synthetics will create a lot more BTUs. Know what you’re going into and look for signs outside of the building, and you will increase your preparedness for what you’ll encounter inside.
What Are The Warning Signs of Flashover?
Flashover. Attempting entry. Bowling Green, Kentucky. Photo by: Wales Hunter/Code-Red source: FireNuggets.com
Flashovers have signs and symptoms and knowing what they are can help you act appropriately and in the safest way possible. The warning signs can typically be seen and identified, such as:
- Heat build-up. When the fire is low in intensity and spreading slowly, combustibles and flammable gases are heated to the point of ignition.
- No visibility. You can go into a structure and see from one end to the other, not knowing accumulated gas in the ceiling space above may be ready to ignite.
- Rollovers. These are the preemptive signs that a flashover is going to occur. If you witness rollover, cool down those gases effectively and get out of the building.
- Pressurized smoke. If you are observing smoke exiting the exterior of a structure, look for what kind of pressure buildup is associated with that smoke.
What Can I Do To Be Safe?
Safety is always a priority. Here are a few steps to be safe in a flashover:
- Two in – Two out. Flashover can cause disorientation and panic. Work in teams.
- Secondary means of egress. Determine another way out before you even go in.
- Facepipe and full PPEs. This is the best protection for any firefighter.
- Risk vs. Gain. Establish what you’re risking going into the structure and if it is worth putting yourself in harm’s way by going in.
With flashover occurrences increasing, knowing the warning signs is crucial for all chiefs and firefighters, to avoid injury or death. Don’t forget to join me on November 10 for more information.
About the Author
Craig Nielsen, a 28-year veteran of the fire services, is a Captain with the Los Angeles Fire Dept. He has served as a Live Fire Training Officer, Driver Training Instructor, Career Guidance Counselor & Instructor of Record. Nielsen has been assigned to the most active fire station in the country for over two years, with 20+ responses per day. He is a California state-certified Fire Instructor and Fire Officer, and Emergency Medical Technician. He has been a Dräger Swede Survival instructor since 1998.
We’re Not Leaving: 9/11 Responders Tell Their Stories of Courage, Sacrifice, and Renewal (Book Review)
No commentsWe’re Not Leaving
9/11 Responders Tell Their Stories of Courage, Sacrifice, and Renewal
Author: Benjamin J. Luft, M.D.
Web site: 911RespondersRemember.org
Published: 2011
Publisher: Greenpoint Press
ISBN: 978-0-9832370-2-0
Pages: 302 + black and white pictures
Cost: $20.00 paperback
Purchase the book here: We’re Not Leaving: 9/11 Responders Tell Their Stories of Courage, Sacrifice, and Renewal
We’re Not Leaving is a collection of 33 stories/experiences penned by the responders themselves in the first person. The stories are raw and uncut, easily enabling the reader to view the experience from the eyes of the writer. The stories give the reader a first hand account of what they went through that day and the days, weeks, and months following September 11th. From story to story, events are captured from different views and places in and around Ground Zero.
From NYPD Officers to an EMS Director, a building inspector to a Paramedic, Firefighters to iron workers, welders to K9 handlers, a massage therapist to a Priest this book has a broad spectrum of responders. Some of which are used to responding to emergencies and others who felt the need to respond. They all found themselves in something bigger than they could imagine, yet each one of them was able to help.
The individual narratives in this book cover such a myriad of thoughts and feelings. They cover the initial thoughts when they heard or saw what was happening to political issues involved in the recovery, clean-up, and health issues of the responders. Some of these accounts are by people who you might not have considered a “responder” until you read what they were able to accomplish.
We’re Not Leaving is divided into 5 parts
- Caught in the Collapse – Accounts from Police, Fire, and EMS Professionals who responded to the terrorist attacks. Their accounts of what they thought, witnessed, felt, and experienced as the World Trade Center Towers collapsed. Many of them talk of survivors guilt.
- Looking for Survivors – Hope for finding survivors, looking and searching a midst the Pile, and the beginning of the “controlled chaos” that would become the management of such a large incident. Iron workers, welders, truck drivers, Firefighters, Police Officers, and so many others came together searching and hoping for survivors.
- Recovery, Recovery, Recovery – A look into how working at Ground Zero and other areas involved in the recovery effort effected those working there. For days, weeks, even months, people worked at the Pile and staging areas for what was removed from Ground Zero. They would continually see horrific sites, yet it became somehow became routine for some responders.
- The Responders Need Help – Many other people became responders too. They came from all over the Country to help. Part 4 offers accounts of these “responders” from their point of view and those of the people they were helping, the ones working the Pile.
- Renewal – A look into what has happened in the 10 years since 9/11. Advocates fight for responders health benefits, and others talk about issues facing responders since 9/11…some of which should have been taken care of up front.
I found myself immersed in this book and hardly put it down until I finished it. I relived many paths taken that day through the narratives in this book. I have read numerous books on 9/11, each of them a little different than the others. This book has been one of the best. Raw accounts from people who might not have been able to share their story otherwise.
I recently finished reading We’re Not Leaving just prior to heading to New York City for the first time in 15-20 years. I had not been to Ground Zero since the terrorist attacks. This book helped me remember some of the landmarks, but more importantly I was able to realize where some of these stories occurred that I had just read a week prior. Wow, what a tribute to those who worked at Ground Zero, the lives lost that fateful day, and those who have perished since due to working the Pile.
My favorite excerpt:
“Would I do it again? I’d do it tomorrow. I may not be healthy enough, but it’s what I’m made of. When I spoke before Congress and Senate, and I’ve done it many times, I always ask them: What’s the one thing that almost every responder had in common? And they still to this day can’t answer the question.” source – page 102 by John a Union Ironworker.
About the Author:
Benjamin J. Luft M.D.
Benjamin J. Luft, M.D., is the Edmund D. Pellegrino Professor of Medicine at SUNY Stony Brook and an internationally recognized expert in the treatment of Lyme disease and AIDS-related conditions. As a native New Yorker he was deeply impacted by the 9/11 attacks and was inspired to establish the Long Island World Trade Center Medical Monitoring and Treatment Program, which provides care to more than 6,000 disaster responders and has become an incubator for several important research and treatment programs that emphasize both mental and physical well-being. Dr. Luft has also established several important projects commemorating 9/11, including the “Remembering 9/11 Responders” oral history program.
Related: Podcast: Interview with Benjamin Luft MD about We’re Not Leaving
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The Secret List is an email list that began in 1998, but has roots even deeper than that. This article is a look into how The Secret List began and what it is all about.
The information below was gathered from a phone interview with Chief Billy Goldfeder and maybe a little bit of research online.
The Secret List or TSL technically began in 1998 as an email back and forth from Chief Billy Goldfeder and many of his friends and other fire service leaders.
However, prior to the email version of TSL, Chief Jack McElfish (currently in Sandy Springs, Georgia), used to mail out information in a manila envelope. The news was stuff he found or that others found and mailed to him. Whether it was written correspondence or copies of articles, the information was sent to several others and the list began growing. Word spread and peoples addresses were added to the list and McElfish made more copies and spent more money on stamps. For you young bucks, google what we used to do prior to email!
Fast forward to 1998, Billy Goldfeder bought his first computer and found the internet. Al Gore’s invention had grown and Goldfeder put it to work. The email version of TSL was born. TSL was the same as before, but now with typed information and links to stories on news sites around the World.
They original email list went to notable fire service leaders and others. The list grew as more found out about the list and asked to be on it.
The name “The Secret List” was originally just a gag among some veteran firefighters
That’s right, the name “The Secret List” originated from a little humor. Not the purpose, the name. People started asking who was on the list and Goldfeder would simply tell them it was a secret…A Secret List…THE Secret List. In order to keep everyone from asking who was on the list, Goldfeder soon began adding “The Secret List” in the subject line along with the subject of each email.
I asked Goldfeder how many people were on the list now and for each of their names and email addresses. Would you believe that he told me it was still a secret! Actually, he told me that it is several hundred thousand direct subscribers in addition to the over 160,000 who read it on Facebook.. This includes members from all over the World including the UK, Canada, Australia, France, the Middle East, and countries ending in “vakia” and “thania”. Many US Soldiers are also members.
You can “like” TSL on Facebook.com as well!
So what is The Secret List exactly?
TSL is based on firefighter survival. It is mission focused. It isn’t the latest news and politics, however some are included because some politics ARE about firefighter survival.
Ever since it’s inception, TSL has remained on point and focused on firefighter survival. Nothing more and nothing less.
Enter FirefighterCloseCalls.com
Maybe you have heard the name Gordon Graham (GordonGraham.Com). Maybe you haven’t. If you haven’t, you should immediately crawl out from under that rock in which you live.
Gordon Graham asked Goldfeder about creating a web site to share the information on TSL. The idea was simple, Goldfeder would produce the information and Graham would fund it.
FirefighterCloseCalls.com - The Home of The Secret List was born. The site is advertisement free and not for sale, although it is probably one of the most valuable fire service web sites in existence today. It is ad free because it is mission focused. Goldfeder and Graham do not want any business politics entering into the equation and want to retain the ability to say whatever they want whenever they want to say it. They make no money directly from the web site.
Read their mission statement here
FirefighterCloseCalls.com has grown since its inception.
The site is led by:
- Retired Highway Patrol Commander Gordon Graham J.D.
- Chief Billy Goldfeder, EFO
- Chief Forest Reeder
- Chief Brian P. Kazmierzak, EFO
- Chief Rudy Horist
- Retired Fire Marshal Ignatius Kapalczynski
- Retired Chief Chris Shimer
- Chief Patrick Kenny
- Director Barry Furey
The site now includes various sections like:
- The Secret List
- Close Calls
- EMS Close Calls
- Personal Survival
- Training and Safety
- Weekly Fire Drills
- Videos
- Communications
- Fire Reports
- Firefighters Killed at War
- Non-Traumatic Firefighter Deaths
- Firefighter Staffing
They even have a “sites we like” section…Maybe I will make the list some day! (cough, cough). Although, Statter isn’t on their either. Just don’t tell Dave that. It would crush him!
The Secret List is sent out when there is important information to share. There is no frequency to their emails. The guys behind the list/site monitor the news 24/7 for information they think should be shared.
One final note is that Goldfeder said that TSL is about giving back to the fire service. You might think of it as paying it forward, Goldfeder says he is blessed with what the fire service has given him and he wants to be able to give back for others to learn. Additionally, he has been in the unique position of being directly involved with numerous LODD’s over the last nearly 40 years as a fireman, company officer, and Chief. From investigations, to working with Chiefs and Locals in preventing recurrences’s as well as losing firefighters he was personally very close to over the years, The site is not about “SAFETY-ING” out the fires service.
Goldfeder further stated:
“Some visitors to the site or readers of TSL think that we are trying to eliminate risk. That’s ridiculous. This is a risky job and some risks must absolutely be taken. Additionally, some LODD”s are not avoidable and those who perform those are as heroic as anyone can get. That’s not the ones we are talking about. We are talking about the unnecessary risks, the ones where firefighters and officers did things that resulted in nothing other than to get themselves hurt or killed…Actions that were predictable from the start and initial and on-going size up. In those cases, the lack of training, leadership, experience, etc. lead to the tragic but unnecessary deaths. Who determines what is an unnecessary LODD? Rad the reports and speak to those who were on scene. The LODD families can often provide some “shut up and listen” insight on how their loved one died and didn’t have to. Our focus is to simply help firefighters learn from some bad stuff, close calls as well as LODD’s – so they just don’t get repeated.”
Oh, and if you ever wondered what “WTF” stood for, I am assured that it means “Well Trained Firefighter”. When I asked him if he was ABSOLUTELY sure it didn’t mean “What The Fuck” his reply was “WTF are you trying to say Rhett?”
Keep up the great work Billy, Gordon, Forest, Brian, Rudy, Ignatius, Chris, and Pat!
If you would like to subscribe to The Secret List via email click here, otherwise click on over to FirefighterCloseCalls.com and check it out!
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