All of us at APCO International send our thoughts and prayers to those affected by the senseless act of terrorism in Orlando. We grieve for the victims, their families and their friends. Our heartfelt thanks go out to the many law enforcement, emergency medical, fire service and emergency management professionals for their efforts both during the initial response and as the investigation proceeds. To the public safety telecommunications professionals at the Orlando Police Department, Orange County Sheriff's Office, Orlando Fire Department, Orange County Fire/Rescue and all the assisting agencies, your hard work, dedication and tireless efforts are appreciated and valued by your fellow professionals nationwide – especially during these most tragic of days.

We are delighted to have Coach Lou Holtz as a keynote speaker at this year’s annual conference. Read our interview with him and get ready to meet him in Orlando.

FirstNet has made significant progress towards its mission to deploy the nationwide public safety broadband network. Come hear directly from Michael Poth as he provides an update on FirstNet’s progress.

Stuart Snow has been an APCO Local Advisor for the State of Arizona for four years. He has over 30 years of experience in the radio and telecommunications fields and has spent the last 18 years in public safety communications.

Although technology has enhanced the quantity and quality of what is delivered, there continues to be a necessary human element that brings it all together.

The Advertiser News Williamson County has hired Stephen Martini as its new emergency communications director. In this role, Martini will develop short- and long-term plans and strategies for enhanced 9-1-1, and direct and coordinate activities of staff engaged in receiving emergency and non-emergency calls as well as dispatching such calls to pertinent agencies.

Guilford Metro 9-1-1, N.C., has met the minimum training standards for APCO's Agency Training Program Certification and has been awarded certification as of June 13, 2016.

MetCom (Metropolitan Area Communications Center), Colo., has met the minimum training standards for APCO's Agency Training Program Certification and has been awarded certification as of June 13, 2016.

Waukesha County Communications, Wis., has met the minimum training standards for APCO's Agency Training Program Certification and has been awarded certification as of June 13, 2016.

Weatherford Democrat A 12-year-old boy who saved his little sister’s life when she was recently attacked by a dog was recognized for his bravery by the Parker County (Tex.) Commissioners Court. Also commended were the LifeCare paramedics who responded to the call, Scott Callahan and Art Montes, as well as dispatcher Chase Boyd.

Monroe County Reporter Monroe County Commissioners approved by a 4-0 vote to allow county administrator Anita Cauthen to meet with Forsyth city manager Janice Hall and bring back a proposal for combining city and county emergency 9-1-1 dispatch.