Where Did the Time Go???

Dear Friends

Where did the year go?  I blinked, had a Christmas cookie and the next thing you know it's April!

In all seriousness and not to whine, A Vision and as an extension, myself has been incredibly busy.  You might have heard about our weather experience...you know Sandy?  Lost my home office and basement, computer, network and microwave.  Sheesh....we're still working on getting out from under the mess, but as in everything, some good did come out of it.  I was assigned as the Evacuation/Mass Shelter Branch Director for Jersey City; managing 9 shelters.  We were able to develop a few new directives in Mass Shelter that we will be sharing with the rest of the country in Emergency Preparedness. Our validation came when Federal Agencies, Assets and Resources stated that they wanted to copy a few items from my playbook.  Great job done by all and a tremendous effort by, Fire, EMS and Police.  (why can't we work that way with the day to day ops),  --- Did I say that?

Many Thanx to all who helped.  The full story has to be told and I will post when I get a vacation.  Special Thank You goes out to our Military Personnel, at the Jersey City Armory; led by Chief Armorer Charles Parsons and my new Bro. Capt. Rene Roa.  (fotos to follow)

I recently joined the prestigious Instructor Cadre of the International Association of Fire Fighters (www.iaff.org) Master Instructor Corps.  I am honored and humbled; I hope to share and learn with the best (students and instructors).  This position  gives me the opportunity to share information and knowledge with even more folks in the upcoming years. 

Are you going to be at FDIC2013(www.fdic.com)?  If so, please let me know and let's get together, trade a few war stories,  and just learn from each other.  My best lessons are those I've picked up from  colleagues and friends.  I'm giving a class on "Highrise Fire Safety Management: A Look from Both Sides Now".  It will be Friday, April 26, 2013, in Rooms 134-135, @ 8:30hrs and will last for 90 minutes.  Pop by and say hello

Also to the Victims and Responders in Boston and elsewhere.  Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Stay safe !

John