Chief J Tshudy announced today that Chris Cohan is the new sergeant. Congrats Chris.

Southern would like to congratulate Chris Cohan, Tyler Rose and Bob Coots on completing the DOH Emergency Responder class. They will now begin training on the QRS.

On Saturday, January 7th, Southern held it's Annual Awards Banquet for 2011 at the barn at Overlook. Members had a great time. The evening started with an hour long Social time followed by dinner, awards and recognitions, door prizes and dancing. This banquet was dedicated in Memory of Sgt. Kyle McCall.

Awards as follows: Firefighter of the Year: Tyler Rose; Line Officer of the Year: Chief John Tshudy; Executive Officer of the Year: Trustee Chris Cohan.

Posthumous Life Membership: Sgt. Kyle McCall

In observance to Veterans Day, Southern would like to thank it's Member Veterans for thier service to our Country. It is the sacrifices all Veterans have made and will continue to make Voluntarily that keeps our Country free and safe. Thanks to all who served and are serving now.

Jere Axe, USN (Ret.); Anthony Shoffstall, USMC; Chris Cohan, USN; Bobby Burrs USN and USA, Paul Frymyer, USA, Korean War, Ivan Brian, USA

Currently Serving: Scott Hoffer, PA-NG; Dan Tyson, USN; Mark Migdal, PA-NG

All of the members of Station 201 wish to extend our deepest sympathy to Live In Firefighter/EMT Nate Steffy as he and his family mourn the loss of his grandfather Edward Steffy.  Mr Steffy passed away while actively performing his duties as a Fire Police officer on the scene of an incident with  the Rothsville Fire Company.

During his time serving with the Rothsville Fire Company Mr Steffy served in many capacities both on the Fire Suppression and Administrative sides of the Fire Company, and was currently serving as the Vice President of the Fire Police at the time of his death.

We ask that everyone please keep Nate and his family in your thoughts and prayers during these tough times.

After several months of planning and waiting, the new apparatus apron was installed today. The old apron, appoximately 15 to 20 years old, was crumbling and sinking. Manheim Township was approached in the late spring and requested to replace the existing apron. Last Friday, BR Krieders began the replacement process. Within the next 2 weeks, after the new asphalt settles, lines will be painted. Thanks to Manheim Township, Chief Kane and BR Krieders for this much needed repair.

Engine 201 and Rescue 201 went to Station 2-8 (Penryn) for some pump time and a Rescue show & tell. Station 201 would like to thank Station 2-8 for allowing us to come train together.

Just after 23:00 hours the volunteers from 201 were alerted for a one vehicle crash in the 1700 block of Lititz Pike  with the reported to be into the utility pole. Prior to units arrival an MTPD officer had already confirmed there were not injuries to the occupants of the vehicle but reported he had one class 4 pole. Rescue 201 remained on the scene for approximatly 15 minutes until the arrival of PP&L. Units cleared with no other services needed or requested.

SMTFC members are saddened by the news of the untimely passing of Lt. Keith Rankin. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family,friends,and members of Lancaster Township Fire Department.

Today started out just as the previous with an early start for the members of Station 201. Just after midnight at 00:30 Rescue 201 was dispatched along with Engine 204 (Eden) for a report car fire. Rescue 201 staffed with five personnel made the response in 90 seconds and was first arriving to find two vehicles off to the side of the roadway with no evident fire. It was determined that no fire services were needed and all units from Manheim Township Fire Rescue (MTFR) were placed available.

Later in the morning the Engine Company made an appearance at the open house and open enrollment for the Gymboree location in the Granite Run Square located just off the Manheim Pike. While on site, kids of all ages adults included, were able to see one of the newest additions to the MTFR fleet. Just as crews were wrapping up, those in attendance were in for a special treat as the Engine was dispatched as the assist to Company 207 (Neffsville) for the Automatic Fire alarm in Richmond Square.Prior to arriving on the scene Chief 207 (Elliott) found normal conditions and held the assignment to the home company.

After a light break, ALL of the units from 201 along with Engine 204 were back on the street for another reported auto fire on Fruitville Pike underneath the overpass for Route 30.. When units from 201 arrived a large SUV was found with a working fire in the engine compartment with extension into the interior. Crews utilized a 1 3/4" attack line to knock the bulk of the fire and perform some minor overhaul. Units were on the scene with clean up for approximately 25 minutes.

The reminder of the day included an additional auto alarm, a spill control, and three Quick Response Service (QRS) calls.