High Point, NC Local President Dies in Road Accident

John Stamp
February 4, 2014 – The IAFF is sad to report the passing of High Point, NC Local 673 President Todd Martinez, a dedicated union leader, member, husband and father. Martinez, 49, died on Sunday, February 2, after being hit by a car while riding his bicycle with his wife, Melanie. According to the High Point Fire Department, Martinez, a fire equipment operator, died from his injuries at Moses Cone Hospital in Greensboro. The accident is being investigated as a hit and run and a suspect has been arrested, according to WFMY News 2.

Fallen Toledo Fire Fighters Honored at Last Alarm Memorial

John Stamp
January 31, 2014 — The Last Alarm Memorial for Toledo Local 92 fire fighters Stephan A. Machcinski and James A. Dickman drew thousands, including local fire fighters, public officials, union representatives and fire fighters from across the United States. Speakers included Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Toledo Mayor D. Michael Collins and IAFF President Harold Schaitberger. “You have answered the final alarm … you have served your city well. Thank you for the gift of your lives,” said Schaitberger.

NFPA Names New President

John Stamp
January 30, 2014 –The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Board of Directors voted unanimously to name Jim Pauley of Lexington, Kentucky as the next president of NFPA. Pauley is currently senior vice president of External Affairs and Government Relations for Schneider Electric and will assume his new role in July.

Two Toledo Fire Fighter Killed in Apartment Building Blaze

John Stamp
January 26, 2013 — Two Toledo, OH Local 92 fire fighters have died after battling a blaze at an apartment building. The fire fighters were transported to a hospital, where they were pronounced dead within five minutes of each other. Lt. Matthew Hertzfeld, a spokesman for the Toledo Fire Department, identified those killed as Stephen A. Machcinski, 42, and James A. Dickman, 31.