October 18, 2001

PRESS RELEASE

To: Newsroom

For Immediate Release

Contact: Brian A. Crawford, Public Information Officer

Phone: 673-6652, cell: 455-2609, page: 675-2137

Firefighters to "Fill the Boot" for New York City Firefighters

Weekend proceeds to go directly to FDNY firefighters widows and orphans fund

In an unprecedented move, prompted by citizens request, to raise money for the families of firefighters lost in the September 11 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center, the Shreveport Fire Department will take to the streets this weekend to "Fill the Boot" for the New York Firefighters Widows and Orphans Relief Fund. Traditionally reserved for their annual Muscular Dystrophy drive, the Fill the Boot campaign will take on a new cause but not a new meaning according to Fire Chief Kelvin Cochran. "Whether we are in the streets collecting for MDA or, like this weekend, collecting for the widows and children of our fallen New York brothers, firefighters at intersections with a boot in their hand are synonymous with our profession helping people.

The firefighters will be posted at intersections throughout the city starting at 5:00 p.m. on Friday and will solicit donations through Saturday. Donations can also be dropped off at local fire stations during this time. All proceeds from the collections will go directly to the New York City Firefighters Widows and Orphans Fund. "Because we as firefighters have been overwhelmed by citizens wanting to know how they could help, we felt by providing a direct avenue through the Widows and Orphans Relief would be appropriate, said Shreveport Firefighter Local 514 President Margene McCoy.

The collection intersections will be determined by the individual engine companies but are sure to be the busier areas around town. Look for fire vehicles and posted signs at those intersections. The drive will kick off at the Youree Drive and Kings Highway intersection tomorrow at 5:00 p.m. ###