**Location Change** This event has been moved to the Shenendoah Clubhouse
Thursday, June 14: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
*Open to all attendees.

NYSAFC is honored to announce that Marine Corporal Mark O’Brien will deliver the 106th Annual Conference Keynote Address. At the age of 21, O’Brien was serving his second tour of duty in Iraq. On day 68, his life was dramatically changed forever. While Mark and his squad were doing a sweep of a city in search for weapons, they came under extremely heavy fire. Mark was hit by a rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) that ripped through the armor of his Humvee. Seriously wounded, and faced with a traumatic life or death situation, Mark began the fight of his life. Although he would lose both his right arm and leg as a result, he didn’t lose the amazing attitude that enabled him to overcome the adversity and challenges that stood between him and the productive and fulfilling life he leads today. Mark’s story reinforces how the power of "mind over matter" can be combined with a great "never give up" attitude to achieve virtually anything you put your mind to. Mark’s message addresses the importance of leadership, teamwork, wearing PPE, training and following proper procedures, watching out for each other, and most of all how YOUR attitude makes a difference. Marine Corporal Mark O’Brien’s military honors include the Purple Heart, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and induction into the New York State Veteran’s Hall of Fame.
*Open to all attendees.

 

Memorial Service (11:00 a.m.)
**Location Change** This event has been moved to the Shenendoah Clubhouse
Join NYSAFC as we pay tribute to our deceased members during this moving ceremony, a longstanding Annual Conference tradition.
*Open to all attendees.

 

**Location Change** This event has been moved to the Cypress Rooms
Friday, June 15: 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Not only will fire departments be able to compete against each other for the title of "Chili Challenge Champion," but we’ll also have two special guest judges on hand at FIRE 2012 that will offer demonstrations for the fire house cook – Robert Painter (FDNY Engine 63 and NYSAFC Hands-On Training instructor) and John Sierp (FDNY Ladder 169). These passionate cooks have made seven national TV appearances and have over four regional cooking contest wins between them. They’ve appeared on shows such as "Chopped," "The Rachael Ray Show," and the "24 Hour Restaurant Battle." Rob and John have been friendly rivals in competition, and that rivalry makes for some really funny banter, as well as some really serious food! Come enjoy the demos or if you think your chili is the one to beat, sign up for the "Chili Challenge!" Prizes will be awarded.
*Open to all attendees.
 

NYSAFC Installation Ceremony:
**Location Change**
Both the ceremony and reception will take place in the Shenendoah Clubhouse
Saturday, June 16: Ceremony: 3:00 p.m. Reception: 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.
The installation of the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs 2012-2013 slate of officers will take place on Saturday afternoon. Annual Conference attendees and all association members are invited to attend the ceremony in the Showroom, followed by a reception.
*Open to all attendees.