Press Release
Carrying the Torch: How Andrew Bartnikowski Turned One Man’s Legacy into a Lifeline for Columbus Fire Families
Ohio, USA, 21st August 2025, ZEX PR WIRE, In the fire service, leadership is not measured by rank alone. It is measured by how far you are willing to go for your brothers and sisters in uniform, both in the heat of an emergency and long after the sirens fade. For Andrew Bartnikowski, a veteran firefighter, paramedic, and community leader, that standard has shaped every step of his 20-year career.
Since 2012, Bartnikowski has served with the City of Columbus Division of Fire, answering more than 10,000 emergency calls with the precision, composure, and decisiveness that have earned him a reputation as both a skilled responder and a trusted leader. His career also spans tenures in Worthington, OH, and Bluffton Township, SC, bringing with him a wealth of experience in emergency response, financial planning, program management, and professional training.
But it is his work beyond the fireground that has left perhaps the most enduring mark, most notably, his founding of the Class 12/10/12 Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit born from tragedy, driven by camaraderie, and sustained by compassion.
The foundation’s roots trace back to 2012, when Firefighter Brandin O’Keefe, Bartnikowski’s academy classmate, was diagnosed with melanoma while still in training. Despite his diagnosis, O’Keefe fought through the academy with unmatched determination. “There was nobody tougher than Brandin,” Bartnikowski recalls. “He wrapped his legs every day, pushed through the pain, and never once complained. He was determined to make it through, and he did.”
When O’Keefe later passed away, Bartnikowski and fellow classmates organized a small golf outing to support his wife, Karen, and their children, Abigail and Evan. That first gathering was modest, raising funds for groceries, Christmas presents, and other essentials, but its impact sparked something far greater.
Over the next 11 years, the golf outing evolved into a major annual event, raising over $150,000 to support firefighter families facing injury, line of duty death, or suicide. This year’s Brandin O’Keefe Memorial Golf Outing, held September 25 at Cumberland Trail Golf Club, generated $10,500 for the foundation and its partner, the Save A Warrior Foundation, which supports veterans and first responders struggling with PTSD.
From its inception, Bartnikowski’s vision for the foundation was clear: honor Brandin’s spirit by making sure no member of the Columbus Fire Division family faces hardship alone. His leadership has extended beyond fundraising, building community partnerships, creating sustainable support systems, and ensuring that the foundation responds quickly and effectively to those in need.
As Lead Paramedic, instructor, and mentor, Bartnikowski’s service ethos permeates every aspect of his professional life. He has trained recruits in live fire scenarios, coordinated large-scale preparedness drills, and streamlined operational processes, including cutting patient care report time by 20%. He has represented firefighters as a union steward, helped negotiate a $300M labor contract, and advised on safety and EMS policy changes.
The golf outing is, in many ways, an extension of that same leadership, strategic, collaborative, and driven by results. This year also marked a symbolic transition, as Bartnikowski and the original organizing committee passed the torch to Firefighters Joshua Cumston and Tom Covert. “It is bittersweet,” Bartnikowski admits. “This event has been part of my life for over a decade. But it is also exciting to see the next generation step up. That is what Brandin would have wanted, his legacy carried forward, year after year.”
The impact of the event is deeply personal for Brandin’s family. His brother, Danny O’Keefe, participated again this year and reflected on its significance. “Brandin was the oldest and someone I looked up to my whole life. Even though his time at the firehouse was short, the mark he left on his classmates and the fire service was huge. The fact that this event still exists 11 years later means everything, especially now that his kids are becoming young adults.”
Bartnikowski’s ability to turn one man’s fight into a movement is a case study in how leadership works in the fire service. It is not about personal recognition, it is about building something that lasts, something that keeps people connected and supported long after the immediate crisis is over.
Opinion: In a world where memorials often fade and good intentions lose momentum, the endurance of the Brandin O’Keefe Memorial Golf Outing proves what is possible when commitment meets community. Bartnikowski could have helped once, then moved on. Instead, he built a platform that has outlived its founders, outgrown its original scope, and outperformed expectations every single year. That is not just event planning, it is legacy building.
The foundation does not just hand out checks. It stands as a living promise that in the Columbus Fire Division, no one stands alone in hardship. It has supported families navigating sudden medical crises, assisted children coping with loss, and contributed to mental health programs for those silently struggling. The partnership with Save A Warrior is a natural fit, addressing the urgent and often hidden mental health needs of firefighters and veterans alike.
As for Bartnikowski, his work with the foundation reflects the same qualities he has shown in every role he has held, whether leading a medical scene, instructing the next generation, or negotiating for firefighter safety and benefits: focus, persistence, and a refusal to settle for “good enough.”
A graduate of The Ohio State University with a BS in Resource Management, Bartnikowski holds certifications in Paramedicine, Fire Instruction, HAZMAT, Rope Rescue, and more. His diverse background in skilled trades, financial services, and emergency response has given him the ability to approach challenges from multiple angles, a skill that has proven invaluable in both the field and the foundation.
As the sun set on this year’s outing, the final tally was more than just $10,500. It was another chapter written in a story of resilience, brotherhood, and lasting impact. Bartnikowski may have passed the operational reins to Cumston and Covert, but his fingerprints are all over the event’s DNA. His vision ensured that the foundation was not dependent on any one person, it was built to last.
And that is the ultimate measure of a leader, not just how they respond when the alarm sounds, but how they inspire others to keep answering the call, year after year, for a cause worth fighting for.
About Author
Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Digi Observer journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.
U7BUY, a global digital gaming marketplace, has announced the launch of a dedicated channel for players to sell Fortnite accounts. This initiative comes in response to recent changes in policy within the gaming ecosystem that have reshaped how accounts are managed, traded, and valued by players worldwide.
The new channel provides a structured and secure platform for individuals seeking to transfer ownership of Fortnite accounts. By integrating this service into the existing marketplace, U7BUY aims to support a growing segment of the gaming community while ensuring transactions are managed with the highest standards of safety and transparency.
“Creating this channel is about responding directly to evolving community needs,” said Anna, Marketing Director at U7BUY. “The shift in policy has changed the dynamics of Fortnite account ownership, and players deserve a trusted, reliable avenue to navigate those changes. This launch provides an environment where trading can take place with confidence, backed by consistent safeguards.”
Fortnite has consistently been one of the most influential titles in online gaming, with an active and diverse global player base. The recent adjustments in account-related policies have created both uncertainty and opportunity for players looking to transition accounts between owners. U7BUY’s new service positions itself within this context as a marketplace designed to prioritize security, clarity, and community-driven solutions.
The company has long facilitated digital transactions across a wide range of games, including the exchange of in-game currency, items, and character progression services. This expansion into Fortnite account trading reflects both a response to immediate market conditions and a broader commitment to adapting with industry trends.
As part of the new channel, U7BUY continues to emphasize encrypted data handling and secure transaction practices. Support services are in place to assist participants with account transitions, addressing both technical and procedural aspects of the process. Community resources—including guides and informational content—are expected to complement the service to ensure sellers remain informed about requirements and best practices.
The company has also underlined its intent to maintain clear communication with stakeholders and the gaming community, aiming to prevent misunderstandings around policy shifts and account trading regulations.
The launch of the Fortnite account channel is viewed as part of a broader strategy to remain aligned with player interests and industry developments.
“Gaming continues to evolve in ways that extend beyond the screen,” Anna added. “Account ownership, digital assets, and community engagement are increasingly interconnected. Looking forward, U7BUY intends to expand opportunities for players across multiple titles and create a marketplace that remains adaptive, secure, and reflective of how players interact with digital entertainment.”
U7BUY is a digital gaming marketplace connecting millions of players worldwide. It facilitates the buying and selling of in-game currency, items, accounts, and power-leveling services across a wide variety of popular titles. The platform emphasizes secure transactions with encrypted data, reliable customer support, and a vibrant hub for community engagement.
For further information about the new channel to sell Fortnite account, media inquiries can be directed to U7BUY. The company can be reached by phone at +0085254814835 or by email at press@u7buy.com.
Media Contact
Organization: U7BUY
Contact Person: Anna
Website: https://www.u7buy.com/
Email:
press@u7buy.com
Contact Number: +85254814835
Country:Hong Kong S.A.R.
Release id:35065
The post U7BUY Opens New Channel for Players to Sell Fortnite Accounts Post-Policy Shift appeared first on King Newswire. This content is provided by a third-party source.. King Newswire makes no warranties or representations in connection with it. King Newswire is a press release distribution agency and does not endorse or verify the claims made in this release. If you have any complaints or copyright concerns related to this article, please contact the company listed in the ‘Media Contact’ section
About Author
Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Digi Observer journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.
U7BUY, a trusted digital marketplace serving millions of players worldwide, has announced the launch of boosting services for FC 26. The new offering becomes available in advance of the game’s global release, providing players with early opportunities to strengthen their teams and progress quickly in the highly anticipated title.
The rollout of FC 26 boosting services continues U7BUY’s ongoing development of gaming solutions that connect players with experienced service providers capable of delivering tailored progression pathways within the new edition of the football simulation franchise.
“Launching FC 26 boosting services at this stage ensures that players can enter the game with a competitive foundation from the very first day,” said Anna, Marketing Director at U7BUY. “The service is designed to align with the dynamic expectations of the community and to give participants more control over their gaming experience in a safe and reliable environment.”
The introduction of boosting services before the global release reflects increasing demand for pre-launch preparation among players. With competitive online environments growing steadily across football gaming titles, early advancement has become a sought-after pathway to securing strong positions within in-game divisions and competitive play.
U7BUY’s platform has expanded over the years to accommodate a wide range of gaming needs, including currency exchange, item trading, account services, and power-leveling. The addition of FC 26 boosting integrates seamlessly into this portfolio, complementing an existing ecosystem where secure transactions and community engagement remain central.
The company continues to emphasize trust and reliability in all service categories. Transactions are processed through encrypted channels, and support staff remain available to address customer concerns promptly. These measures aim to foster long-term confidence among players engaging with the marketplace.
By framing boosting services within the same framework of security and accountability, U7BUY intends to meet demand without compromising the safeguards that have become central to its reputation. This approach ensures that participation in boosting activities remains consistent with broader principles of fair digital trade.
The launch arrives at a time when football gaming franchises hold significant cultural presence worldwide. With millions of players expected to engage in FC 26 during its first weeks, supporting services are likely to play a prominent role in shaping how fans experience the game.
As competitive modes, ranked divisions, and virtual team-building expand in scope, boosting services are positioned to become part of a larger ecosystem of play, strategy, and engagement. U7BUY aims to support this growth by maintaining adaptability and offering structured solutions for players with diverse objectives.
“The gaming industry evolves rapidly, and supporting services must evolve alongside it,” added Anna. “Looking ahead, the focus will remain on creating opportunities that allow players to participate more fully in the games they love, with services developed to respond to both present and future expectations.”
For more information regarding U7BUY and its newly introduced FC 26 boosting services, the press office can be reached by phone at +0085254814835 or by email at press@u7buy.com.
Media Contact
Organization: U7BUY
Contact Person: Anna
Website: https://www.u7buy.com/
Email: Send Email
Contact Number: +85254814835
Country:Hong Kong S.A.R.
Release id:35054
The post U7BUY Launches FC 26 Boosting Services Ahead of Global Game Release appeared first on King Newswire. This content is provided by a third-party source.. King Newswire makes no warranties or representations in connection with it. King Newswire is a press release distribution agency and does not endorse or verify the claims made in this release. If you have any complaints or copyright concerns related to this article, please contact the company listed in the ‘Media Contact’ section
About Author
Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Digi Observer journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.
U7BUY, a global digital gaming marketplace, today announced the introduction of FC 26 coins for PC, responding to heightened demand during the early access period of the title’s release. The new addition reinforces the platform’s role as a community-driven hub where players access in-game currencies, items, accounts, and related services.
The launch of FC 26 coins for PC comes as part of U7BUY’s ongoing commitment to providing players with flexible and secure options for enhancing their gaming experiences. The marketplace facilitates transactions across multiple titles and platforms, underpinned by encrypted systems and customer support to ensure confidence and reliability. The decision to add this new currency offering was informed by observed market demand and early adoption trends from players seeking to advance within the game at the earliest stages of its release.
“FC 26 coins for PC have quickly emerged as one of the most requested items among the community during early access,” said Anna, Marketing Director of U7BUY. “The marketplace is designed to adapt to evolving gaming landscapes, and this latest expansion demonstrates a focus on making sought-after digital assets accessible to players in a timely manner.”
The early access period of FC 26 has revealed a strong appetite among players for immediate access to in-game enhancements. As gaming communities expand and evolve, marketplaces such as U7BUY have become central to connecting players with the resources they seek. By closely monitoring game launches, community activity, and user demand, the company aligns its offerings with active market dynamics.
The decision to provide FC 26 coins for PC highlights not only responsiveness to customer needs but also the company’s approach to observing real-time trends within the gaming industry. U7BUY’s infrastructure emphasizes transaction security, community engagement, and digital content to ensure that expansions such as this one can be executed smoothly.
U7BUY’s platform hosts millions of users who engage in buying and selling digital assets across diverse gaming environments. With a foundation built on secure transactions and comprehensive support, the platform is positioned as a trusted environment for these exchanges. This environment is further enriched by community features such as guides, blogs, and updates designed to help players navigate game economies effectively.
The addition of FC 26 coins reflects a broader mission to adapt offerings according to demand while sustaining a transparent and reliable marketplace structure. By balancing accessibility with safeguards for user security, U7BUY continues to provide an ecosystem where both buyers and sellers can interact with confidence.
The introduction of FC 26 coins is considered an important step in the company’s forward-looking strategy. As the gaming landscape continues to expand, the marketplace anticipates that emerging titles and formats will shape further service additions. The platform’s focus remains on responding to these shifts while maintaining a standard of trust for its community.
“The addition of FC 26 coins is an example of how closely the platform follows player activity and adapts offerings accordingly,” Anna continued. “Future developments will build on this approach, ensuring the marketplace evolves alongside the wider industry while remaining a dependable destination for gamers.”
For additional details regarding the recent introduction of FC 26 coins pc, media representatives may contact U7BUY directly. The company can be reached by phone at +0085254814835 or by email at press@u7buy.com. U7BUY operates from its headquarters in Hong Kong, where its team continues to coordinate marketplace developments and industry updates.
Media Contact
Organization: U7BUY
Contact Person: Anna
Website: https://www.u7buy.com/
Email: Send Email
Contact Number: +85254814835
Country:Hong Kong S.A.R.
Release id:35055
The post U7BUY Adds FC 26 Coins for PC Following Early Access Market Demand appeared first on King Newswire. This content is provided by a third-party source.. King Newswire makes no warranties or representations in connection with it. King Newswire is a press release distribution agency and does not endorse or verify the claims made in this release. If you have any complaints or copyright concerns related to this article, please contact the company listed in the ‘Media Contact’ section
About Author
Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Digi Observer journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.
U7BUY Launches FC 26 Boosting Services Ahead of Global Game Release
U7BUY Opens New Channel for Players to Sell Fortnite Accounts Post-Policy Shift
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