by Margie O’Hara, CASART Secretary
The Central Adirondack Search and Rescue Team, based in Inlet, continues to grow and to update equipment.
Since its organization in 2003, the team has now attracted nearly 90 members, primarily from the Adirondacks, Capitol Region, and Central New York.
This figure makes CASART the largest all-volunteer search and rescue team in the state.
It is also one of the best-trained groups, with the latest in high-tech equipment.
All of the training and equipment are paid for by individual members, grants, municipal support and donations.
CASART has a trailer which was donated several years ago and has been equipped with everything needed to be used as a mobile ICP (Incident Command Post), such as a computer, printer, mapping software, base and handset radios, individual GPS units, compasses, and extrication equipment.
Time and weather have taken a toll on the exterior of this indispensable search and rescue tool.
Recently, CASART member Mark Shantz, who runs a body repair shop, along with his wife Sandy, his father, and the shop employees, decided to undertake the task of giving the trailer a fresh exterior. They towed the trailer to their shop where they redid the entire paint job, from sanding, priming and sealing to adding a chip guard to the tongue and fenders.
Then, they replaced the team’s insignia and returned the trailer to its home at the IVES building in Inlet.
To do the work, Mark contacted others whose products he uses in his business. He reported that “these are great guys who jumped at the chance to help us do something for the team.”
Consequently, all of the liquid materials required for the job were donated by Gary Bobbett of Kimbers, Inc. in Syracuse, and Bob Cook of Fairway Lane Ltd. in Rome donated the vinyl lettering and the CASART logos and installed them once the trailer was painted.
Donations such as these help the team to stay on top of the equipment needs that are required for efficient operation.
They also boost the morale of the team members by reinforcing that their freely given donation of time and effort on behalf of others really is appreciated.
Interested in learning more about CASART? Would you like to become a field or administrative member on the team? Go to our website: www.casart.org.
CASART is a 501(c)(3) organization. Any donation is tax deductible to the extent of the law.
