As I watched Pat Davis, top, and Marty Urbanski climb to the top of a 100-foot ladder on the department’s ladder truck, Monday, I was far from green with envy. The two are newly hired firefighters and paramedics for the Northampton Fire Department.
I don’t care for ladders, steps, heights, or danger. When they reached the top, released their grip and leaned backward for an exercise in confidence, I was impressed, even though they were hooked to the ladder for safety.
Apparently, so were several passers-by, who tooted their horns at the sight, which took place in an empty parking lot on King Street. The pair, who began working Jan. 19, were being trained in all aspects of using the truck, which included parking it between cones.
— Jerrey Roberts