Firefighters competition comes to a close
EVERSON – A week fueled with competition among area firemen, as well as food and entertainment ended with a bang in Everson Saturday as spectators were treated to a parade and fireworks at the 71st annual Fayette County Firemen’s Association Convention. The Everson Borough Fire Company hosted this year’s event, along with celebrating its 100th anniversary. Chuck Leighty, fire chief, said about 30 of the county’s 50 volunteer fire companies and fire departments participated in the six-day stretch of sporting events held nightly. “All of the ones that came had fun,” said Leighty.
Along with the parade and fireworks, the final day included the election of new county officers for 2009-2010 with Ed Zadylak, a 31-year member of New Haven Hose Coompany, named as the association’s new president.
“I’m very proud to say the least,” said Zadylak, who moved up in rank over his previous years as first, second and third vice-president as part of tradition.
Zadylak said to his knowledge he is also the first member from New Haven to hold the top post, which entails conducting monthly meetings held at the county’s departments on a rotating basis and representing the association at various activities.
Aside from Zadylak, the Association elected the following officers: Matt McKnight of Connellsville Township, first vice president; Debbie Parshall of Fayette City, second vice president; Doug Grimm of Morrell, third vice president; Larry Able of Perryopolis, secretary; Harold Whyel of Point Marion, treasurer and Roy Leckemby of Smithfield, chaplain.
Zadylak added that the association would reorganize in two weeks when new committee heads are appointed for the year with the September meeting to be held in Belle Vernon.
“We talk to the guys and learn something new, which is very invaluable,” said Zadylak.
The association started in 1939 and the first convention was held that July in Dawson.
From the time it was established, the association has remained steadfast in promoting and unifying the county’s fire-fighting organizations through membership, leadership, safety, training, fundraising, the law and public service.
It also instills proper respect of the dead and provides deceased members with a death benefit fund.
Right now, Zadylak said the association’s top priority remains the same as it has for years – volunteer recruitment and retention.
“The question is how do we replace the ones that retired or passed on, especially when the mills have closed and the mines have closed,” Zadylak said. “You used to see fathers, sons and grandsons, but we lost that.”
According to Zadylak, cost is also a factor for the fire companies that host the annual convention; however, the equipment used for the sporting events is owned by the association.
Bobbi Peck of Bullskin Township said she came out with her son Steven, 11, to watch the Battle of the Barrel Competition held during the beginning of the week, while her husband, who is a member of the Bullskin Township Volunteer Fire Company, brought their son back later in the week for the Hose Lay.
“This week went well,” said Zadylak. “Everson was very gracious.”
The results from this year’s sporting events are as follows:
Battle of the Barrel – first, Dunbar; second, South Connellsville. Hose Lay (Moving) – first, Hiller, second, none; (Super Heavy) first, Hiller; second, Fairchance (Stationary) first, South Brownsville; second, Hiller. Gear Scramble (up to age 17) – first, Jason Marabella, Newell; second, Brittany Harwood, Fairchance. (age 18-30) Ricky Ditmore, Hopwood, first; John Rulli, Connellsville Township, second. (age 31-45) Rob Leiberger, Connellsville Township, first; Mike Smithberger, Ohiopyle, second. (46 & over) Kelly Parshall, Fayette City, first; second none (overall best time) Rob Leiberger, Connellsville Township. Bucket Brigade – Scaffold, first, Hopwood; second, Connellsville Township. (House) first, Connellsville Township; second, Fairchance. (Tug of War) first, Connellsville Township, second, Hopwood. Truck Pull – first, South Brownsville; second, Monarch.