Dearest Brothers and Sisters,

The kick off for FOOLS Convention 2009 in York Beach, Maine is rapidly approaching. The Tri-Chapter effort by New England FOOLS, Central Mass FOOLS and Southern New England FOOLS will make this year's convention an epic event.

Convention 2009 has something for everyone. From a relaxing few days on the scenic coast of Maine, or enjoying some great excursions, to participating in World Class Hand's On Training and Training Forums by Chief Mike McNamee of the Worcester FD, Chief Billy Goldfeder and more; but most of all the opportunity to meet and network with other FOOLS who share the same pride, values and ownership for the fire service that both you and I do.

This year's convention is a particularly important to all FOOLS. The FOOLS are transitioning in an ever changing fast paced world. Our organization is taking steps to branch out, grow and mature. We have a new E-Board in place to guide us in to the next chapter of FOOLS history. It is paramount that you the membership of the FOOLS is present to represent your chapter and bring a voice of what vision of the FOOLS should be, the concerns you have and share your experiences with others.

The Convention 2009 New England Tri-Chapter collaborative realizes these difficult economic times. We too are feeling the effects of our current state of affairs. Our perennial sponsors have been unable to help as they have in the past. However, those who have a supported us in the past are doing so in different ways. From loaner bunker gear and air packs, to goods and services, we are finding alternative ways to host this convention.

Despite the economic discord we ask all of you to please make every effort to attend. We need you here. If each chapter could make a collective effort to send one or possibly more delegates to convention it would be greatly appreciated. We need your voice and your strength. It is our collective effort which will provide us the vigor to endure, this wisdom to lead and the propensity to overcome. Please attend and be a catalyst for our future.

Please contact me directly; if there is anything personally I can do to facilitate your attendance at convention. I look forward to seeing you in June.

Respectfully,

PJ Johnson