EMS EXPO Wants You!
This past year, I’ve spent more time than usual traveling to and attending numerous state and regional meetings all over the country. Being present at these “small” meetings enables me to reconnect with the rank and file EMS folks and once again experience that camaraderie and sense of brotherhood and sisterhood that is somehow unique to, and particularly representative of, EMS. I don’t think there’s another group that laughs louder, cheers harder or dances with more abandon than those in EMS! And the “small” shows have all and more of the heart, sincerity and dedication of the large events, excepting the variety and mix of participants from different parts of the country and/or the world.
It’s long been my habit to ask how and why people got started in EMS, and I’m still, after all these years, knocked out by most of the answers. During a recent awards luncheon, I was seated next to a woman who told me she moved from law enforcement to EMS when she became upset by the way her son’s coaches handled the athletes’ emergency needs, and decided that she wanted to do something about that. She’s now a dedicated volunteer firefighter and EMT—and has contributed greatly to changing and improving emergency treatment for all the kids involved in athletics in her town.
I want now to extend my personal invitation to you to attend our upcoming EMS EXPO, scheduled for October 19–23 in Atlanta, GA. The educational component of the EMS EXPO is at the highest level it’s ever been, with more than 120 classes taught by more than 80 of the most experienced, talented and inspiring teachers in the field of EMS. Flanked by meetings, classes and official social events of the co-located National Association of EMTs Annual Meeting and the American Ambulance Association Annual Conference and Trade Show, EMS EXPO offers the largest exhibit hall in the world, composed exclusively of products and equipment for the field, as well as a fabulous Friday night party and extensive opportunities for networking with peers and colleagues from all over the country and the world.
EMS EXPO is different from, and yet similar to, the smaller meetings you probably attend in your own communities from time to time. You will find the same friendly atmosphere and opportunities, but on a larger, perhaps more complex, certainly more comprehensive, scale that will enable you to enhance and enrich your knowledge, increase your professional expertise and take home up-to-the-minute information on new products and equipment in the field. The big bonus is the chance to participate in one of the most exciting conferences and shows ever held in the field of EMS. Please come by and say hello!
P.S. I am happy to announce that EMS Magazine has published a new book, People Care, written by Thom Dick & Friends (Steve Berry, Jeff Forster and Mike Smith). Advance copies will be available at pre-distribution prices for EMS EXPO attendees at EMS Magazine Booth#1717.
