The Fools International Executive Board is preparing for the 2008 Fools Annual Convention in Seattle, Washington, July 9^th – 13^th. The Brothers of the Puget Sound and Southwest Washington Fools have been working day and night to put on a memorable event. We are thankful for these brave souls to step up to the plate to put their own time and effort in planning such a huge event.

An order of business that needs to be completed prior to the convention is the nominations for the five awards that will be given this year. They are as follows:

FOOL OF THE YEAR - This Fools member is an all around ambassador to the mission statement of our organization. A member that has spread the message of the Fools not only through his or her own chapter, but outside of the Fools, bringing in new members, and starting new chapters. By setting a good example to other firefighters, a positive image of our organization is spread to all who come in contact with him/her. (Last year's recipient was awarded to Mike Veseling, Southside FOOLS)

DANA HANNON AWARD - Dana Hannon was a Fools member that made training part of his life. He was an FDIC East/FDIC West HOT instructor, as well as a member of the FDNY and Wyckoff, NJ Fire Department. Dana was killed on Sept. 11, 2001.

This award will be given to the Fools Member who shows a true passion for training his Brother and Sister firefighters. Through training, we can ensure that our Brothers and Sisters will have the knowledge and skills that will protect them on the job. (Last year's recipient was Bob Swick, Miami Valley FOOLS)

CHRIS BLACKWELL AWARD - Chris was a Firefighter for the FDNY assigned to Rescue 3. Chris was also a Fools member, receiving his card only 3 months before being killed in the attacks on the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001. Chris was also into training, teaching collapse training at FDIC and FDIC West as a HOT instructor. Chris was also awarded numerous times with medals of bravery from the FDNY.

This award will be given to the most active Fools Chapter. A chapter that has been active in their own community and fire service community by fund raising events, training opportunities and the like. A Fools Chapter that has shown not only their fellow firefighters, but the general public the true brotherhood of our profession through purpose, kindness and dedication. (Last years recipient was Hernando Hommteam FOOLS)

JOHN MICKEL AWARD - It is named in honor of Osceola County Fire Rescue Lt John Mickel, who died tragically during a live fire exercise. His dedication to training and brotherhood were evident in his work, as well as by the performance of his crew.

This award is designated for a Chapter that spreads the spirit and the word of the FOOLS through Brotherhood. (Last year's recipient was Farthest North FOOLS)

JOSH EARLEY AWARD – Josh Earley was a career fireman assigned to Engine Company 27 of the Charlotte Fire Department. He also served as a part-time fireman with the Harrisburg Fire and Rescue Department. His service was steeped in tradition and pride in being an American Fireman. Because of Josh's dedication and commitment to being a fireman, he took great pride in being an inaugural member of the Charlotte Metro FOOLS. Josh died three days after sustaining mortal injuries at a fire in a private dwelling, while serving as a Harrisburg firefighter.

The Josh Earley Award was created to honor a rookie or new firefighter who shows initiative and passion for “the job”. (Last year's recipient was Mike Rich, Hernando Hommteam FOOLS)

These are the five awards that will be given at the 2008 Fools Annual Convention.

To nominate a “Fools Member” or a “Chapter”, click the SUBMIT button and vote on-line. Please Describe in detail why the nomination is being submitted.

The deadline will be May 15th for any nominations. Get them in A.S.A.P.! Please note that the nominee as well as the submitter MUST be members of Fools International.