Book Plug

[Netpackrat]

I just finished reading this book, and I thought that some of the members might find it interesting. It is the memoir of the chief of the local volunteer fire department of the small town where I grew up. Since I moved to Anchorage a number of years ago, I hadn't even known Dewey had written a book, but I happened to spot it on the shelf in a local store a few weeks ago. Most of the people on the cover are friends of mine, along with many of the people described in the book, so of course I had to buy it. It gives a pretty good overview of the challenges and dangers involved in providing emergency services in a very small, isolated community on the coast of Alaska, and on running a volunteer department in general. Most of my contact with their group was tangential, so the book really gave me a better understanding into all that goes into what they do. It also contains a lot of practical leadership advice, and is worth a look for that alone.

[308Mike]

I love to read, so thanks for the heads-up. I'll keep my eye out for it. Unfortunately, it doesn't look like it's out on audio CD (yet). I've been getting used to "hearing my books" while commuting back and forth. It makes the drive much more pleasant.

[AlaskaTRX]

I still need to get that book... Dewey is the father of one my best friends from growing up, and I was always over at his house, and I got to hear alot of the stories first hand after they happened. It's pretty cool that he put everything together in a book. He is a very stand-up individual and I've always had a ton of respect for him and those he worked with.

[308Mike]

For those not willing to click the link and see what it's called, the book is:
Fire and Ice - Tales from an Alaskan Volunteer Fire Chief - by Dewey G. Whetsell