Ramsey October 10, 2012 THE VILLADOM TIMES IV • Page 3 The Ramsey Office of Emergency Management invites the public to join with the members of the Ramsey Emergency Services and the governing body in the dedication of Ramsey’s Emergency Operating Center to past OEM Coordinator Michael F. Adams. The dedication ceremony will be held on Saturday, Oct. 13 at 9 a.m. at the EOC, which is located at the rear of the Ramsey Borough Hall at 33 North Central Avenue. Adams was the borough’s long-time emergency management coordinator until his death earlier this year. As a tribute, the members of Ramsey OEM will honor his achievements by naming the EOC after him. “The dedication of this EOC to Mike will be a lasting monument to his contributions and love of the Borough of Ramsey,” Ramsey Mayor Christopher Botta said. Event organizers reported that Congressman Scott Garrett, Mayor Botta, and Public Safety Chair Dierdre Dillon plan to attend the event. The ceremony will consist of brief comments and the dedication, which will include a sign honoring Adams. “What better honor for Mike and his family than to have his home away from home dedicated to him?” said OEM Coordinator Ralph Venturini. “We felt it fitting to rename the EOC for Mike.” Venturini noted that Angelo Lamanna, who serves as OEM Deputy Coordinator along with Glen Karpovich, was the driving force behind this effort. Adams was known for his dedication to the community, where he wore many hats. He had been the borough’s OEM coordinator for almost four decades, and was recognized Emergency Operating Center to be dedicated to Adams Michael F. Adams as New Jersey Emergency Management Coordinator of the Year in 2005. He was an officer in the New Jersey Emergency Management Association, and the Bergen County SkyWarn Spotter Coordinator for the National Weather Service. He had been active with the Ramsey Rescue Squad for 48 years, and was serving his fifth term as the squad’s president when he died. Adams was also a 45-year member of the Ramsey Ambulance Corps, where he was a life member and senior riding member. An active member of the Ramsey Knights of Columbus for 34 years, Adams was a Fourth Degree Knight and was Grand Knight of the Patrick F. Pindar Council 3942 in Ramsey. He was a parishioner, lector, and usher at Saint Paul Roman Catholic Church. Adams was a former member of the Ramsey Council, where he chaired the Police and Fire Committee, and was a captain in the United States Army Reserve. Adams earned multiple degrees from Seton Hall University, including a bachelor’s and three masters. He logged 40 years as a high school educator and college counselor. For 16 years, he was a guidance counselor at Ramsey High School, and earned Teacher of the Year honors. Adams, who was involved in Boy Scouting for many years, achieved Eagle Scout status. He later became a mentor to Troop 31’s Eagle Scout candidates. In 2011, Adams received the Silver Beaver Award from the Northern New Jersey Council of the Boy Scouts of America. The award, established in 1931, is the highest honor a registered adult leader can receive. The Silver Beaver is presented to individuals who do not actively seek recognition, but work diligently, showing self-sacrifice, exceptional character, and dedication. Adams received a certificate and a miniature silver beaver on a blue and white ribbon at the BSA Council’s 13th Annual Recognition Dinner. Adams’ volunteerism was previously recognized by former New Jersey Governor Christine Todd Whitman and by former President George W. Bush.