INNOVATIVE FIRE DEPARTMENT

Robert Ridgeway's three-plus years as Cape Girardeau's fire chief has been innovative. Now he will take those ideas to North Carolina where he will become fire chief in Gastonia next month.

During his tenure, the department developed the first responder program in which trained firefighters are first on the scene of medical emergencies. A fitness program for firefighters was started, along with other innovations.

Max Jauch, who has been with the fire department for 24 years, has been name acting fire chief until a permanent choice is made. Jauch previously has served as acting chief and intends to maintain the progressive momentum in the department.

Cape Girardeans have been well served by Ridgeway and the personnel of the fire department. With the foundation that has been developed, the next fire chief can expect to take over a solid and well-run operation.