Thank you to New York Senator Michelle Hinchey for acquiring a $50,000 state grant to allow the Pleasant Valley Fire District (PVFD) to purchase a utility terrain vehicle (UTV).

The new land rescue vehicle will allow members of the Pleasant Valley Fire District to fight fires and conduct rescues in wooded areas, on farmlands, and on trails inaccessible to firetrucks, including the 917-acre Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Area — one of the largest state forests in Dutchess County.

The vehicle committee, under the leadership 1st Assistant Chief Ray Broas, consisted of Past Chief Wayne Gruntler, Past Commissioner Bob McRitchie, ESS Captain Trevor Simoni, MTO Tom Murphy, Firefighter/EMT John Hopper and Firefighter Pat McKeever worked tirelessly, visiting many other fire departments to inspect their UTV's and their pros and cons of the many manufacturers available.

Senator Hinchey and her staff worked very closely with Pleasant Valley Fire District's Director of Purchasing, John Harmuth making sure all the necessary paperwork was completed properly and on time ensuring that Senator Hinchey would be able to help the district with this vital piece of equipment.

Thank you to all involved, especially Senator Hinchey!