Winter 2022 LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
Volume 38, Number 4
The PFIA Protector is printed quarterly by the Police and Firemen’s Insurance Association. The Executive and Editorial Offices are located at 101 E. 116th Street, Carmel, IN 46032
Local: 317-581-1913 or toll-free: 1-800-221-PFIA (7342)
Creative Services
Rebekah Brownson
Police and Firemen’s Insurance Association
President
John E. Murphy
Senior Vice President/Executive Secretary
Bradd Roembke
Vice President/Treasurer
Jeff Warnock
Board of Directors
Mike Carrigan Littleton, Colorado
Ruben Cevallos San Antonio, Texas
Myles Christie Augusta, Georgia
Thomas Clines Fishers, Indiana
Tom Evans Cattaragus, New York
Raymond Gallardo ......... Ankeny, Iowa
Edward Griffith III ..... Brick, New Jersey
Gerald Housel ........ Speedway, Indiana
Mark S. Kemp ..... New Palestine, Indiana
David G. Lentz Slidell, Louisiana
John Murphy Carmel, Indiana
Steve D. Murphy Indianapolis, Indiana
Bradd Roembke New Palestine, Indiana
Don Trejbal Akron, Ohio
Jeff Warnock Carmel, Indiana
Legal Counsel John D. Hoover
E. Davis Coots
Lawrence W. Schmits
Actuary ................ Brad Simanek Griffith, Ballard & Company
President John E. Murphy
The Board of Directors elected John as President in the November 2022 meeting due to the retirement of Tom Clines. Before assuming this position, John served as the Senior Vice President, Executive Secretary since January of 2018.
John is honored and humbled to be elected President of PFIA. “I am am thankful to the Board of Directors for their confidence and trust in electing me. What a privilege it is to be chosen as a steward of this great Association! I know that along with the Board, Executive Committee, and our tremendous Home Office staff we will continue to pursue our goal of making our membership and exceptional fraternal benefits available to all Police, Sheriffs, Corrections Officers and Firefighter throughout the nation!”
John is a 1980 graduate of Saint Joseph’s Collegiate Institute in Buffalo and was drafted to the United States Hockey League by the Waterloo Black Hawks in 1981, where he played two seasons. He then played for Canisius College earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Management Information Systems in 1988. He then returned to the Mid-West to officiate the USHL, IHL and WHL. In 1990 he joined the NHL Officials Training Program and has represented the US in four World Championships for the International Ice Hockey Federation on four continents. John was also the President of the New York State Hockey Official’s Association, USA Hockey Director of Training for New York State, and a member of the USA Hockey National Training Staff, instructing officials from New York to Alaska.
John retired as a Battalion Chief from the Fire Department in Buffalo, NY in 2017. Prior to being hired by the fire department, he worked as a manager of the multi-million-dollar sports complex Sky Rink at Chelsea Piers in Manhattan, NY. After joining the fire department, John earned a degree in Fire Protection Technology from Erie Community College in 1999. He is also Past President of the St. Paul’s School Board, the St. Amelia Home School Association and Board Member of Cadets Federal Credit Union.
John is married with four children. His wife Mary Teresa is Employee Experience Director for Norton Business Group, LLC. His stepson Joshua is an agent for TBA Agency in Los Angeles, CA. His daughter Julia is a recent graduate from the University of Buffalo. His daughter Abby is a student at Columbia College, Chicago, and Megan is a Senior at Cathedral High School in Indianapolis.
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Announcement from the Home Office
Term Life Insurance Conversion
Our term life products provide an option to convert to permanent life insurance. Please refer to your policy for specific conversion rules.
Crediting of Annuity Plans Issued After 2012
Our qualified, non-qualified and ROTH IRA products issued after November 1, 2012 were issued with a guaranteed interest rate of 1.00%. As per the policy language, this rate will be redetermined semiannually on January 1 and July 1 and will remain in effect for the subsequent six month period. Due to the Federal Reserve adjusting the interest rate, the guaranteed rate on these plans will be 2.8% beginning January 1, 2023. The crediting rate will be 2.8% for this period. This rate will be redetermined on July 1, 2023. Please contact Vice President/Treasurer Jeff Warnock at our Home Office with any questions.
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The Board of Directors elected Bradd to be the next Senior Vice President/Executive Secretary at the November 2022 Board meeting. Having worked at all levels, from local representative to national management, he brings a wealth of knowledge to the position. Bradd began his journey with PFIA 35 years ago when he purchased his first policy while working for the Indianapolis Fire Department. Benefitting from the Association’s protections over the years, and watching colleagues do the same, led him to believe in the products offered and want to serve the IFD community as an account representative.
Bradd achieved this goal in 2000, when he was offered the position. During his rookie year, Bradd achieved Agent of the Year honors. “I loved every minute of the 13 years I spent serving IFD directly, yet when opportunity knocked, I was honored to accept a position which would allow me to present PFIA to a broader audience.”
In 2013, Bradd was promoted to Regional Manager. As Regional Manager his region consistently opened new sections, grew in membership, and developed
CongratulationsBRADD ROEMBKE
successful representatives. Bradd’s reach expanded once again when he was promoted to National Sales Director in 2016. Bradd was elected to the Board of Directors at the 2020 meeting of the Supreme Legislative Body. His knowledge has been a tremendous asset in helping the Board ensure the Association remains strong and prospers long into the future. “Building relationships and devising means to help others succeed are highlights of my career.”
Prior to joining PFIA, Bradd served the Indianapolis Fire Department for 25 years beginning in 1988. Bradd also worked for Indianapolis Firefighters’ Credit Union for nine years. He moved through the ranks of the Credit Union working as a teller, a loan officer, a mortgage officer, and serving on the Board of Directors of the credit union for three years.
Bradd is a 1987 graduate of Ball State University where he studied athletic training. Bradd served his community as Director and Board Member of the local Little League for several years. He continues to offer career guidance and mentoring to many of the young men he encountered through this role. He and his wife, Leigh Ann, have six children aging from 22 to 29, and two granddaughters.
“I am thankful to the Board of Directors for offering me this opportunity. As I move into my new role, I take with me all I have learned along the way. While
every promotion has moved me farther away from directly helping the men and women on the front lines, I strive to never forget they are the reason we are all here. I have approached every day of my PFIA career with those men and women at the core of every decision, and I will continue to do so.”
“I am eternally grateful for the career PFIA has offered me and must thank those who have been instrumental in my success.
Dave Brunner who taught me everything I needed to know to be a successful account representative. Past President Mark Kemp who has mentored, supported and believed in me through the years. The Home Office staff who work tirelessly to ensure members, agents, managers, and executives all have the best support available. The Board of Directors and Executive Committee who work to ensure the Association not only remains strong but adapts to industry changes and remains relevant. The Managers and Agents who diligently work to show their members we are “Each Other’s Keeper.” Finally, thank you to my wife, Leigh Ann, whose unwavering support and guidance has pushed me along this career path longer than anyone can imagine, and to our six adult “children” who help us stay focused, celebrate victories, mourn losses, and remain humble.”
THOSE WHO PERFORM Above and Beyond
Assistance out of the house
Rhode Island — On July 24, 2022, a fire broke out in a 2.5 story house with flames shooting through the roof. The Providence Fire Department immediately responded to the emergency by dispatching Ladder Co. 8, who quickly arrived on site to attempt to get the fire under control.
When they arrived on scene, Firefighter Stanley Carmichael identified that there was a victim who needed assistance evacuating the burning residence and promptly jumped into action by ascending a ladder to the balcony of the residence in order to
attempt to rescue the trapped man.
Firefighter Carmichael successfully reached the victim and was able to assist him out of the house, saving him from potentially severe injuries.
The heroic actions of Firefighter Carmichael by taking quick and decisive action to ensure the safety of Providence residents reflects the very best qualities of the PFD.
UNIT CITATION AWARD PFIA’s
Honorary Mention
Saving a bedridden man
Texas - Engine 5 (Dr. Miguel Cerda and Firefighter Felix Bustinza) arrived first on scene and found fire in the rear of the house. A lady said her handicap husband was still inside and unable to escape. They made entry into the house with limited visibility and found the man in his bed. They proceeded to close the door to his room and begin moving many objects away from the window. The windows were only about 1 foot wide. Then Truck 5 (Lt. Eric Ramierez, Dr. Christian Rodriguez, and Firefighter Jose Escobedo) made it on scene and found the crew inside knocking on the window to help the man get out. Truck 5 broke out the window frame and went in to assist. They placed the man in his wheelchair, brought him to the window, and using a backboard slid him out of the window. At the same
time, they rescued a dog from the bedroom and later once the fire was extinguished located their second dog that was unharmed.
Research shows that across the country, women only make up 8% of fire fighters and 13% law enforcement officers. In July, a group of women from the Des Moines, Iowa Police and Fire Departments joined forces to create the first annual Iowa Hero Academy, to help encourage young women, ages 15-18, to explore a career as a first responder.
The Iowa Hero Academy, a week long camp held at Camp Dodge, gave twenty-six participants a first-hand look at what it takes to be a first responder. From traffic stops and crime scene analysis, to learning how to deploy fire hoses and rappelling, the camp’s mission
is to empower young women through developing leadership skills and confidence.
“This opportunity has been in the planning stage for two years,” said Hali VanVelzen, a fire fighter and medic with Des Moines Fire. “The idea initiated with the women within our fire department and then expanded to the women with police department. With the assistance from the Des Moines Police Activities League, the Iowa National Guard, and sponsors like PFIA, we were able to make it happen at no cost to youth.”
High school females from across Iowa were able to apply, write an essay, and go through an
interview process to be selected for the camp. “We weren’t looking for just 26 girls to fill the spots, we were looking for the best 26 girls to fill the spots….and we did exactly that,” said VanVelzen.
According to the Iowa Hero staff, it is their goal to continue to grow the program and to encourage other communities to develop their own camps for the young women in their communities.
“It’s about filling our ranks, building the bench, and finding our future replacements. We need strong, confident, amazing women to take our place and where better else to look than in our own backyard!” said VanVelzen.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Fraternal Events
Ohio - On August 26, PFIA agent Vince Viancourt became a Brass Sponsor for a golf outing and fundraiser on behalf of Deputy Chief Benjamin.
Pictured: Vince presenting a fraternal donation check to East Cleveland Fire local 500 members Ryan Hogan and Eric Proch.
Ohio - On September 30, PFIA agent Greg Gearhart sponored a hole at Brookledge County Club in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio.
Pictured: Firefighter Louis, Agent Gearhart, Firefighters’ Adams and McIntyre.
Rhode Island - Lincoln FD/EMS member accepts a donation check for the Public Safety Special Needs Coalition (PSSNC). The PSSNC is a group made up of firefighters, EMS, police officers, and healthcare providers that provide training to first responders on how to accommodate people with special needs.
Georgia - PFIA Agent Jason Roehm donating a check to the 34 Seconds Foundation for their 5K run on October 8.
Texas - On October 19, a fundraiser done by the Texas Department of Public Safety Driver’s License Division and Texas Department of Public Safety State Troopers Division of Amarillo, Texas, to assist the Amarillo Area Casa Inc. (a nonprofit group that advocates for mistreated and abused children in court)
Pictured: Supervisor Jessica Lindsey, PFIA Agent Joe Ponder, Lt. Joe Medrano, and Sgt. Cindy Barkley.
The 34 Seconds Foundation’s mission is to raise awareness in their local community about first responders. Their goal is that all members of the first responder community go home to their families and friends despite the silent battles they may be facing. The 34 Seconds Foundation strives to provide education and awareness on suicide prevention and resources to the local community to prevent such tragedy.
November 11, 2022 at Hutchinson Island. Mark Edward Hummeldorf served our nation in the armed forces with the Marine Corps for 4 years and as a firefighter/paramedic for Southside Fire and EMS, Bryan County Emergency Services, Savannah Fire Rescue, and Parris Island Fire Rescue. During his time in the Marine Corps, Mark was awarded the Purple Heart for his bravery, which he also exemplified daily in his actions as a first responder. Unfortunately, our community lost this hero on November 22, 2017 when Mark was tragically taken from us at the young age of 33; he left behind his beautiful wife and two wonderful children. We continue to HonorMark by carrying on this hero’s legacy of service and sacrifice by giving back to the community he served through charitable donations.
Ohio
presenting a fraternal donation check to Twinsburg Firefighters Local 3630 Secretary Kevin Rott. They held their second annual fundraising golf tournament on August 26 to benefit Twinsburg local organizations, including many youth sports teams, their high school scholarship, and the Joshua Miktarian Scholarship.
Rhode Island - PFIA is a sponsor of the Greenwood Volunteer Fire Company and Museum. The museum is dedicated to the history of the fire service in the city of Warwick.
The apparatus they preserve and care for is original to the city of Warwick and is Engine 5 a 1940 Mack Engine, 7 a 1954 Maxim, and an 1825 Hunanan Hand Tub pumper.
Louisiana - PFIA Agent Patrick Denney proudly presents Captain/ Paramedic Keith Campbell of the Shreveport Fire Department a donation check. Captain Campbell had a kidney transplant and is back to work doing great. He was doing dialysis everyday before coming to work for a year while waiting on a donor.
Illinois - On July 28, 2022, the Chicago Firefighters Union held their 28th Annual Golf Outing which raises money for research for burn victims.
Pictured: PFIA Agent Mike Shanahan, John Jackson, Mike Del Greco, and Mike Butkus.
Louisiana - On October 10, PFIA Agent Patrick Denney presented a donation check to members Rick Morrow and James Mackey of the Shreveport Fire Department K9 search and rescue team. They Assist with rescues all over the state.
Rhode Island - In October, the chief and members of the Little Compton Fire Department receive a check from PFIA for their Trunk or Treat Halloween event.
Colorado - On October 15, PFIA Chairman/Director Mike Carrigan delivering a memorial death benefit check to Lt. Paul Carrol of the Arvada Police Department for the family of Officer Michael Vakoff, who was killed in the line of duty in June 2022.
Colorado - PFIA Agent Jim Snyder presents check to William Bishard of Longmont Fire for funds to help with supplies for the annual chili cook-off to raise funds for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
Indiana - PFIA Agent Greg Lehman delivering a check to Evansville Police Foundation for their annual Policeman’s Ball.
Pictured: Retired Chief Brad Hill, Officer Taylor Merris, Greg Lehman, and Sgt. Anna Gray.
New York - Schenectady Firefighters Cancer Foundation Golf Tournament held September 14, 2022. The event raises money for the cancer foundation to support department members and their families who are dealing with cancer.
The event was a huge success and raised over $15,000 for the foundation. PFIA helped sponsor this wonderful event.
Pictured: Co-Chair/Lt. Adam Colvin, PFIA agent Mark Karl, Firefighter Steven Tifft, and Co-Chair/Captain Scott Briggs.
Louisiana - On September 16, Roxanne
sponsored a foursome team & a hole for the New Orleans Fire Department Athletic Club.
Pictured: Chris Koenig, Zach Domilise, Corey Mahl, and Eric Farre.
Nebraska - On September 8, PFIA members from the Fremont Fire Department Local 1689, participate in Paul Davis Charity Golf, helping to fund multiple scholarships for children of first responders from southeast Nebraska and southwest Iowa areas.
Pictured: Riley McCoy, Dave Wordekemper, Alan Atkinson, and Zach Toole.
out on the Border cook-off (a local rodeo company that helps out the community during school season and holidays).
Pictured: (above) PFIA Agent Joey Medellin, Firefighter Manny Bustamante, and Sgt. Louie Ramos, members of PFIA placing 2nd on the best fajitas.
(left) PFIA Agent Joey Medellin and Sgt. Louie Ramos with Webb Co. Sheriff’s Office
Texas - On September 28, PFIA Joe Ponder presented a check at the TDCJ Smith Unit in Lamesa.
The check was presented to Correctional Officer Adriana Uvalle to assist her and her children due to them losing their home and all belongings in a house fire.
Pictured: Sr. Warden Bryan Williams, Assistant Warden Cody Parker, Correction Officer Adriana Uvalle, Assistant Warden Michael Miller, and PFIA Agent Joe Ponder.
LouisianaAgent Robby Marquette sponsored the Covington High wrestling team for the Never Forget 9/11 5k run. It was a fundraiser for the Tunnel of Towers Organization, which helps pay off mortgages of fallen police and firefighters. The benefit of sponsoring the Covington High School wrestling team (students and coaches) was to help get young adults involved in 9/11 events.
The Beginning
In July of 2018, Danny Overley, Retired Deputy Chief of Indianapolis Police Department and Immediate Past Trustee Grand Lodge Fraternal Order of Police, approached the National Board of Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.) about helping the families and co-workers of officers who die by suicide. The National Board requested the Executive Director of C.O.P.S. research options on how C.O.P.S. could help these survivors. After extensive research it was determined C.O.P.S. did not have the capability to manage what could ultimately triple the number of survivors it served. Shortly thereafter, Shelley Jones, C.O.P.S. Director of Operations, submitted a proposal to the C.O.P.S. National Board to help these families. This proposal included Laurie Putnam, C.O.P.S. Director of Chapter and Survivor Support joining Shelley.
In January 2020, the National Board of C.O.P.S., voted to help start a separate organization for survivors of law enforcement suicide. The new organization would be modeled after C.O.P.S. and would bring the services offered by C.O.P.S. to law enforcement suicide survivors by providing Survivor Weekend Retreats and a peer support
network to survivors. With the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), supporting this mission, Shelley and Laurie began the journey alongside a committee of survivors. SBS was made possible through the generous donations made by the C.O.P.S.’ National Board and Past Leadership and Law Enforcement United.The committee comprised of Shannon Dance, surviving spouse; Jason Gould, surviving adult child; Danny Overley, retired Deputy Chief/FOP; Anastasia Pytal, mental health liaison; Brian Stahl, surviving co-worker; and Julie Zielinski, surviving mother began working on the name, mission, vision, values and the organization’s logo.
Shortly after meeting, Survivors of Blue Suicide Foundation (SBS) was incorporated with the mission of fostering hope by uniting survivors of law enforcement suicide to support one another and honor our fallen heroes.
Vision & Core Values
Survivors of Blue Suicide Foundation, Inc. (SBS) addresses the emotional and psychological needs that arise from the loss of a loved one by suicide in the law enforcement profession. The family and co-workers of any active or retired law enforcement officer who has died by suicide in the United States and its territories may use the services of SBS.
Vision
To provide all survivors and co-workers of law enforcement suicide with enduring support while working with the agency to provide respect and dignity to the families and law enforcement community.
Core Values
Remembrance: We inspire others to honor the life they lived, not how they died.
Integrity: We are guided by collective moral compasses, transparency, and fiscal responsibility.
Dignity: We are committed to respecting survivors, law enforcement officers and the agencies impacted by officer suicide.
Diversity: We encourage and celebrate the diverse voices of all suicide survivors and the law enforcement community.
Support: We are dedicated to serving those affected by an officer suicide by fostering lifelong relationships, compassion and understanding.
Community: We strive to educate law enforcement officers and agencies on best practices to help guide them and the families after an officer suicide.
Survivor Weekend Retreats
After suicide, survivors can be faced with the challenges of altered life plans, raising children, or learning to live alone, and deciding how to discuss their officer’s death. At the SBS Retreats, you will spend the weekend receiving support from and bonding with other survivors who genuinely know how you feel.
SBS Retreats provides a safe place to connect with each other and the staff. The Wellness Support staff, which includes licensed mental health professionals and peer support, will provide a session of facilitated conversation giving you the opportunity to discuss sensitive issues. They will also provide mini-workshops with topics such as grief and relationships. These workshops will be interactive and educational to assist in the new challenges you may be facing in multiple areas of
your life.
You will also get the chance to participate in fun activities that may challenge your limits and relax in group activities that encourage a continued support system beyond the retreat. By attending SBS Retreats, you will leave with an increased sense of self-awareness and personal growth.
Honoring our Fallen Heroes Who Died by Suicide
On July 23 and 24, 2022 Survivors of Blue Suicide Foundation hosted its 2nd Annual National Law Enforcement Suicide Survivors Conference and Blue Family Memorial Events in Indianapolis, IN. We were able to host these events because of support from corporations, associations and organizations like Police and Firemen’s Insurance Association. The surviving families and co-workers of our fallen heroes lost to suicide were able to come together and honor their officers and receive support from the law enforcement community. The families and co-workers found support from others who truly understand what they are going through. They established friendships and connections that will last a lifetime.
The events of the weekend included sessions on grief,
resilience, gratitude, and forgiveness. The survivors participated in the Blue Light Vigil to honor and remember their officer. They also attended the Blue Family Memorial where they were escorted to the stage by a law enforcement officer when their officer’s name was called. While on stage they received a rose, a necklace and a thin blue line dog tag which were donated by Colonel David Dodd (ret.) and Shields of Strength. After the memorial they were able to view
by uniting survivors of law enforcement to suicide to support one another and honor our fallen heroes.” SBS hosts weekend retreats for spouses, parents, and co-workers. As SBS continues to grow more retreats will be added. As survivors travel their grief journey, they know they have a safe place where they do not have to feel the shame and stigma society has attached to suicide. They know they are honored, respected and not judged.
Survivors of Blue Suicide Foundation is honored to pay tribute to the life these officers lived and not judge them on how they died.
the Memorial Wall bearing their officer’s name. For many, this is the first time the survivors have been recognized and their officer given the honors they so deserve.
The kids spent the weekend with each other participating in fun activities and interacting with the law enforcement community.
Survivors of Blue Suicide Foundation is a non-profit organization that works with families and co-workers of officers who died by suicide. Our mission is to “Foster hope
In the words of a surviving spouse, “The memorial service, that was something else. That awakened an emotion that I have not experienced through this whole process, and that was the feeling that he was not forgotten, that what he did mattered, and he will forever be remembered. Coming home, everything is forgotten. No one talks about him, he’s not acknowledged, but now his name is on a wall to forever be remembered.” This is an event she will remember forever.
To view the 2022 memorial video visit https://youtu.be/4xY2YXM6Coc
WE PAY OUR RESPECTS TO OUR FALLEN HEROES
Police Officer Dillon Michael Vakoff Arvada Police Department, CO 3-year veteran
Police Officer Dillon Vakoff was shot and killed while responding to a domestic disturbance.
He and another officer were attempting to break up a fight between the family members when one of the involved men opened fire, wounding a woman who was also involved in the disturbance. The subject then exchanged shots with Officer Vakoff and the other officer. Officer Vakoff was mortally wounded before the subject was also shot.
Officer Vakoff was transported to Lutheran Hospital where he succumbed to his wounds.
Officer Vakoff was a U.S. Air Force veteran and had served with the Arvada Police Department for three years.
Police Officer Seara Burton Richmond Police Department, IN 4-year veteran
Police Officer Seara Burton succumbed to a gunshot wound sustained while conducting a traffic stop on August 10, 2022.
Other officers had requested her assistance to stop a moped being driven by a narcotics suspect. Officer Burton had deployed her canine partner, Brev, who indicated to the presence of narcotics in the moped. As officers began to search the vehicle, the man pulled out a concealed handgun and opened fire, striking Officer Burton in the head. The man was shot and wounded by other officers before he fled on foot.
He was taken into custody following a brief foot pursuit.
Officer Burton was flown to Miami Valley Hospital where she remained on life support until September 1. She was taken to a hospice facility on September 3 and succumbed to her wounds on September 18, 2022.
Officer Burton had served with the Richmond Police Department for four years. She is survived by her fiancée, mother, and stepmother. Officer Burton was
shot nine days before her scheduled wedding date to her fiancée.
Sergeant Alex Hamzy Bristol Police Department, CT 8-year veteran and
Lieutenant Dustin Demonte Bristol Police Department, CT 10-year veteran
Sergeant Alex Hamzy and Lieutenant Dustin Demonte were shot and killed in an ambush in front of a home.
Officers had responded to a business earlier in the evening in response to complaints about a disorderly patron. Officers who responded to the call issued the man a summons and released him. The man then went home, armed himself with an AR-15 rifle, and made a fake 911 call reporting a disturbance at his home. As officers arrived at the scene, the man opened fire on them from the front yard.
Sergeant Hamzy and Lieutenant Demonte were both fatally wounded, while a third officer suffered nonlife-threatening wounds.
The subject was found dead with a gunshot wound at the home.
Sergeant Hamzy had served with the Bristol Police Department for eight years. He is survived by his wife, parents, and two sisters.
Sergeant Hamzy was posthumously promoted to Sergeant.
HEALTH AND WELLNESS Tendon Injury
What is a Tendon Injury?
Tendons are the tough fibres that connect muscle to bone. For example, the Achilles tendon connects the calf muscle to the heel bone. Most tendon injuries occur near joints, such as the shoulder, elbow, knee, and ankle. A tendon injury may seem to happen suddenly, but usually it is the result of many tiny tears to the tendon that have happened over time.
Doctors may use different terms to describe a tendon injury. You may hear:
• Tendinitis. This means “inflammation of the tendon.”
• Tendinosis. This refers to tiny tears in the tissue in and around the tendon caused by overuse.
Most experts now use the term tendinopathy to include both inflammation and microtears. But for many years most tendon problems were called “tendinitis.” Many doctors still use this familiar word to describe a tendon injury.
What causes a tendon injury?
Most tendon injuries are the result of gradual wear and tear to the tendon from overuse or aging. Anyone can have a tendon injury. But people who make the same motions over and over in their jobs, sports, or daily activities are more likely to damage a tendon. A tendon injury can happen suddenly or little by little. You
are more likely to have a sudden injury if the tendon has been weakened over time.
What are the symptoms?
Tendinopathy usually causes pain, stiffness, and loss of strength in the affected area.
• The pain may get worse when you use the tendon.
• You may have more pain and stiffness during the night or when you get up in the morning.
• The area may be tender, red, warm, or swollen if there is inflammation.
• You may notice a crunchy sound or feeling when you use the tendon.
The symptoms of a tendon injury can be a lot like those caused by bursitis.
How is a tendon injury diagnosed?
To diagnose a tendon injury, a doctor will ask questions about your past health and your symptoms and will do a physical examination. If the injury is related to your use of a tool or sports equipment, the doctor may ask you to show how you use it. If your symptoms are severe or do not improve with treatment, your doctor may want you to have a test, such as an X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI.
How is it treated?
In most cases, you can treat a tendon injury at home. To get the best results, start these steps right away:
• Rest the painful area, and avoid any
activity that makes the pain worse.
• Apply ice or cold packs for 10 to 15 minutes at a time, as often as 2 times an hour, for the first 72 hours. Keep using ice as long as it helps.
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen or naproxen) if you need them. Be sure to follow the non-prescription medicine precautions. Always take these medicines exactly as prescribed or according to the label.
• Do gentle range-of-motion exercises and stretching to prevent stiffness.
As soon as you are better, you can return to your activity, but take it easy for a while. Don’t start at the same level as before your injury. Build back to your previous level slowly, and stop if it hurts. Warm up before you exercise, and do some gentle stretching afterward. After the activity, apply ice to prevent pain and swelling.
If these steps don’t help, your doctor may suggest physiotherapy. If the injury is severe or longlasting, your doctor may have you use a splint, brace, or cast to hold the tendon still.
It may take weeks or months for a tendon injury to heal. Be patient, and stay with your treatment. If you start using the injured tendon too soon, it can lead to more damage.
To keep from hurting your tendon again, you may need to make some long-term changes to your activities.
• Try changing your activities or how you do them. For example, if running caused the injury, try swimming
some days. If the way you use a tool is the problem, try switching hands or changing your grip.
• If exercise caused the problem, take lessons or ask a trainer or pro to check your technique.
• If your job caused the tendon injury, ask your human resource department if there are other ways to do your job.
• Always take time to warm up before and stretch after you exercise.
Home Treatment
You can help prevent a tendon injury (also known as tendinopathy) from developing or recurring by taking steps at home, work, and during activities to promote healing and protect your tendons.
Home treatment steps include:
• Rest the affected area and avoid any activity that may cause pain. Get enough sleep. To keep your overall health and fitness, continue exercising but only in ways that do not stress the affected area. Do not resume an aggravating activity as soon as the pain stops. Tendons require weeks of additional rest to heal. You may need to make long-term changes in the types of activities you do or how you do them.
• Apply ice or cold packs as soon as you notice pain and tenderness in your muscles or near a joint. Apply ice 10 to 15 minutes at a time, as often as twice an hour, for 72 hours. Continue applying ice (15 to 20 minutes at a time, 3 times a day) as long as it relieves pain. Although heating pads may feel good, ice will relieve pain and inflammation.
• Take pain relievers. Use acetaminophen or non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, as directed for pain relief. NSAIDs also reduce any inflammation you might have in or around the tendon (tendinitis). NSAIDs come in pills and in a cream that you rub over the sore area. Do not rely on medicine to relieve pain in order to continue overusing a joint.
• Do range-of-motion exercises each day. Gently move your joint through its full range of motion, even during the time that you are resting the joint area. This will prevent stiffness in your joint. As the pain goes away, continue range-of-motion exercises and add other exercises to strengthen the muscles around your joint.
• Gradually resume your activity at a lower intensity than you maintained before your symptoms began. Warm up before and stretch after the activity. Increase your activity slowly, and stop if it hurts. After the activity, apply ice to prevent pain and swelling.
• Avoid tobacco smoke. Tendon injuries heal more slowly in smokers than in non-smokers. Smoking delays wound and tissue healing.
To help prevent tendon injuries from developing or from happening again:
• Warm up and stretch. Warm up before any activity, and stretch gently after you finish.
• Strengthen your muscles to reduce stress on the soft tissues. A physiotherapist, an athletic trainer, or your doctor can teach you specific exercises for strengthening your injured area.
• Evaluate and change daily activities that tend to cause or aggravate your symptoms. In your daily routine, change activities involving repeated movements that may strain your muscles or joints. For example, start alternating hands or change the grip size of your tool.
• Try alternating your usual activities with some new ones. For example, if you like to walk for exercise and have had Achilles tendon problems, try swimming or doing water exercise on some days.
• Notice what you do and how you do it, and take action if needed.
• If you suspect that certain activities at your workplace are causing a tendon injury, talk to your human resources department for information on alternative ways of doing your job, equipment modifications, or other job assignments.
If a certain exercise or sport is
causing a tendon injury, consider taking lessons to learn proper techniques. Also, have an athletic trainer or person who is familiar with sports equipment check your equipment to ensure that it is well suited to your size, strength, and ability. Demonstrate how you use your equipment, and ask for feedback about any mistakes you might be making.
CLASSIFIEDS For Sale or For Swap
is for firefighters or law enforcement officers who have items to swap or sell, or are looking for items to add to a collection. There is no charge for this service, but we ask that you follow one rule: items advertised must relate to your profession as firefighters and/or law enforcement officers.
PFIA solely makes it possible for you to contact one another. PFIA does not accept any responsibility for transactions. To participate, e-mail your name, contact information, & ad information to rbrownson@pfia.net.
You may use any address and/or telephone number you wish.
PATCHES
Looking to grow police/ fire patch collection. If you have patches you would like to part with, please send to Shannon McCarty at 20 Nicole Court Lakewood, NJ 08701.
Kansas fire engineer wanting to trade fire and EMS patches. Have extra patches from other depts. E-mail and we can find out if there are others you would want to trade. Contact Tim Dokken, at tim.dokken81@gmail. com or send patch to Tim Dokken 1028 W. Ash St., Junction City, KS 66441.
Looking to grow my fire patch collection. Captain Jeff Fuchs, Carmel Fire Department, 2214 Mozart Drive, Greenfield, IN 46140. 317-695-8969
Looking to trade my police departments patch. New patch for new patch. Contact: John Kerrigan, 3804 Fairhaven Court, Midland, TX 79707. jkerrigan@ midlandtexas.gov
Wanted: Complete set of 50 state police patches from each one of the 50 states to mount in a frame. Contact: 401-946-6467
OTHER
Retired Cleveland Police Officer Bob Guttu’s book, “Community Policing (It Really Works).” Contact: Bob Guttu at rguttu@ clevelandpolicefoundation. org.
Custom-designed blankets with PD/FD logos. Choice of colors to match department and company patches. Contact NHRF&R FF Stefan S. Vassallo at 973-768-1049 or Sv145@aol.com. 50x60, 80% cotton 20% poly, $65 Free shipping in the Continental US.
Fire bike painting commemorating 9/11 by artist Motor Marc Lacourciere. A framed giclee collector’s piece, #2 of 250, $500. Contact: William Irby at 386-3168275 or skipirby@aol.com
I would like to swap challenge coins with other officers or agencies. One for One. I also sell them for $10 each plus $5 for shipping. Sandra Torres at 903-221-6344
1000s of FOP pins to sell from all states. Call Patsy McKinney at 936-647-7415
Wanted: I collect antique fire memorabilia and any items from Wilmington, DE Fire Department. Contact E. Tickner at bat6wfd@ verizon.net or call 302-5986038 and leave a message.
I have pictures available for anyone interested. Duty holster $165 and tactical holster $195 retail. I’m willing to sell both for $250. Contact Det. Brian Jeffers at 720-810-0856.
For Sale: A Fireman’s Log, a collection of poems written by a fireman. Titles include, Fireman’s Pole, A Fireman’s Wife, A Fireman’s Coat and more. $5 each plus $2 shipping. Contact Huey Hoover at hjh.33sd@gmail. com or phone 985-542-6434
Firefighter/paramedic of the Independence Fire District would like to trade fire, EMS, or police challenge coins for one of our fire challenge coins. Email me or mail me your coin and I will return the favor.10409 Sharpsburg Drive Independence, KY 41051 dcoyle@ independencekyfire.org
MOVING?
Maintaining contact with our members at Police & Firemen’s Insurance is very important to us. In order for us to do that, we are providing a change of address form to assist our members in helping us maintain their most current information.
Go to our website at www.pfia1913.org In the top righthand corner select Address Change and fill out your updated information.
Please download form ChangeAddress. pdf and Email to: memberservices@ pfia.net (Form must be downloaded first, then saved to your desktop to retain your information)
MISCELLANEOUS Various Kinds of Things
Pictured:
Ohio - On August
Graduation
HERE’S THE FUN Recipes to Taste
Classic Pork Crown Roast Ingredients
One 16- to 18-bone crown roast of pork (about 10 pounds) (see Cook’s Note)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 teaspoons fennel seeds
1 teaspoon whole allspice
1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
1/2 teaspoon juniper berries
1 small bay leaf
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
6 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored and cut into 8 wedges each
2 large red onions, peeled and cut into 8 wedges each 1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted
1 cup dry white wine
2 cups apple cider
Directions
Put the pork on a rimmed baking sheet and sprinkle all over with 1 tablespoon salt and several grinds of pepper; set aside.
Put the fennel, allspice, whole peppercorns and juniper berries in a small skillet over medium heat and cook until the fennel begins to turn slightly golden, about 5 minutes. Transfer the toasted spices to a blender, add the bay leaf and blend until coarsely ground. Add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon salt and process until a coarse paste forms, about 1 minute. Spread the paste over the pork, making sure to get it into all the nooks and crannies; use a spatula to scrape up all the paste from the blender. Cover the pork with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 8 hours and up to 24 hours.
When ready to cook the pork, preheat the oven to 450 degrees F.
Put the pork on a rack set in a large roasting pan and cook for 20 minutes. Lower the oven temperature to 350 degrees F and continue to cook until an instant-read thermometer registers 135 degrees F, about another 1 1/2 hours.
Meanwhile, combine the sugar, sage, thyme, apples, onions and 6 tablespoons of the butter in a large bowl until well coated. Heat a large skillet over high heat until very hot, about 3 minutes. Add half of the apple and onion mixture and cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples and onions are dark golden all over but the apples are still firm, 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer to a rimmed baking sheet and spread into a single layer to cool, using a heatproof spatula to scrape all the remaining sugar from the skillet over the apples and onions. Repeat with the remaining apple and onion mixture.
Return the skillet to high heat and add the wine. Cook until syrupy and reduced to about 2 tablespoons, about 4 minutes. Add the cider and cook until thickened and glossy, about 8 minutes; you should have about 1/3 cup of glaze. Swirl in the remaining 2 tablespoons butter and set aside.
Once the pork reaches 135 degrees F, increase the oven temperature to 450 degrees F and brush the pork all over with half the glaze. Return to the oven and cook for 5 minutes. Brush with the remaining glaze and continue to cook until the internal temperature registers 145 degrees F, about another 5 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter and let rest for 30 minutes. Serve with the apples and onions.
Executive Committee
Association Offices
Chairman of the Board Mike Carrigan
Vice President of Operations Jeanie Williams
Regional
Southeast Myles Christie 706-951-9620 (C) pfia567@gmail.com
Louisiana Gary Ralph 318-426-4034 (C) garyralph874@gmail.com
Texas Darren “Lang” Spencer 979-716-6193 (C) lspencer_pfia@yahoo.com
Mid-Atlantic Ed Griffith 732-674-3143 (C) pfiaejg3@gmail.com
Midwest Mark Reuss 513-706-1287 mark.pfia@gmail.com
Northeast Alan “Tom” Evans, Jr. 716-628-4774 (C) nypfia@gmail.com
Directory of Advisory Board Members & Account Representatives
(H) Home Phone (C) Cell Phone (B) Business Phone (F) Fax Number
Alabama Birmingham FD RAPHAEL HALE 205-335-7028 (C) 576pfia@gmail.com
Birmingham PD PAUL A. IRWIN JR. 205-365-7092 (C) 205-591-0911 (B)
Birmingham PD SHAWN SIMMONS 205-2188-8481 (C) pfia783@gmail.com
Colorado
Arvada FD TODD HOBLER 720-540-4940 (H) 303-919-7759 (C) todd.hobler@arvadafire.com
Denver FD JAMES H. SNYDER 303-888-0810 (C) jimpfia434@gmail.com
Denver PD JASON CARRIGAN 303-994-7575 (C) pfiacarrigan@gmail.com
Denver PD & Sheriff MIKE CARRIGAN 303-619-6112 (C) pfia.mikecarrigan@gmail.com
Denver West Metro Fire Rescue DUANE G. PELL 303-238-2328 (H) 303-810-2480 (C) pelldp@q.com
Mountain View FD MIKE STRATTON 970-587-8923 (H) 970-412-6730 (C) mikestratton@gmail.com mstratton@mvfpd.org
Connecticut
Bridgeport FD MIKE KAMSZIK 203-767-3331 (C) mikekamszik@gmail.com
CT State Corrections - Garner SCOTT STRIELKAUSKAS 203-206-2027 (C) 203-757-0036 (H) scottstriel@icloud.com
Hartford FD
EDWARD MACHIAL 860-985-9350 (C) latinofire73@yahoo.com
New Britain FD TIM CYR 860-841-7242 (C) ctpfia@outlook.com
New Britain PD PAUL BAK 860-560-3973 (C) pbak66@comcast.net
New Haven Corrections ERNEST AWUSAH 347-270-6141 (C) ernestawusah@gmail.com
New Haven FD and Branford FD & PD JASON T. CUSACK 203-996-G0597 (C) qball0056@gmail.com
New Haven FD and Branford FD & PD WILLIAM CUSACK 203-494-6762 (C)
Norwalk FD & PD JUSTIN BISCEGLIE 203-803-8050 (C)
Robinson State Corrections ROSENDO DELEON JR. 860-982-9692 (C) rodeleonjr0311@gmail.com
Stamford FD MICHAEL GALLAS 203-470-0275 (C) pfia786@gmail.com
Stamford PD FRANKIE FORBES 203-469-5320 (H) 203-627-0259 (C) fforbes@stamfodct.gov
Waterbury FD JOHN PERUGINI 203-233-3394 (C) johnperugini1987@gmail.com
Waterbury PD MICHAEL STOKES 860-637-0815 (C) mikestokes628@gmail.com
Delaware
Wilmington FD & PD ANTHONY HARRIS 302-250-5276 (C) aharris275@msn.com
Florida
Cape Coral FD EDWARD AGOCS 239-214-1467 (H) edagocs@yahoo.com
Deltona FD ANSON CHUCCI 386-878-3166 (C) pfia.ac680@gmail.com
Ft. Lauderdale FD JORGE MORAL 772-341-2446 (C) pfia765@gmail.com
Gainesville FD EUGENE DUGAN 386-344-3427 (C) ejd0907@gmail.com
Gainesville PD MARTIN HONEYCUTT 352-871-5360 (C) martinh5360@gmail.com
Jacksonville FD ANTHONY E. RAGANS 904-768-3546 (H) 904-699-7181 (C) tbone247@att.net
Orange Co. FD JIM MERGENTHALER 407-694-4927 (C) pfiacfl@gmail.com
Orlando FD T.J. LOWREY 407-970-0893 (C) pfia.tj@gmail.com
Orlando PD JASON BATURA 321-228-7821 (C) jason.batura@gmail.com
Port St. Lucie FD & Sheriff MICHAEL RIZZELLO 772-370-4803 (C) firerizz@aol.com
St. Petersburg FD WINTHROP M. NEWTON 727-323-1213 (H) iwilldo@earthlink.net St. Petersburg PD SCOTT LAANINEN 813-482-3972 (C) scott.laaninen@gmail.com
St. Petersburg PD RICHARD THOMAS 727-798-7165 (C) rthomas1@knology.net
Tampa FD VINCENT JACKSON 813-486-5698 (C) vjackson1380@yahoo.com
Tampa PD RICKY BROWN 813-270-1280 (C) rockynina2@gmail.com
Volusia County FD &PD JUSTIN HUGHES 386-931-8728 (C) jhughespfia@yahoo.com
Georgia
Atlanta FD GEORGE W. HOWELL III 678-787-2465 (C) george.howell.pfia@gmail.com
Augusta FD & PD ERIC V. SMITH 706-339-5979 (C) smith23ev@hotmail.com
DeKalb Co. PD & FD TAD LANDAU 404-557-4205 (H) tadlandau@yahoo.com
Muscogee County Sheriff JOHN WADE 862-216-4217 (C) pfia706@gmail.com
Savannah FD & PD JASON ROEHM 989-239-1450 (H) roehmjason@yahoo.com
Whitfield Co. FD, PD, Sheriff & Corrections BRETT MILLER 706-280-2160 (C) bmiller0828@gmail.com
Illinois
Chicago FD FRANK COSTANZO 773-430-4855 (C) frank.pfia@gmail.com
Chicago FD JOSE GARCIA 312-972-1924 (C) cfd_usmc@comcast.net
Chicago FD MICHAEL J. SHANAHAN 312-307-8795 (C) mspfia@msn.com
Chicago FD MICHAEL WALSH 773-852-2927 (C) pfia3210@att.net
Chicago, Southern Suburbs FD & PD, University Park FD JEFFERY A. DUHOSKI 708-927-0960 paidnproud@aol.com
Peoria FD SHAUN MANNING 309-261-9441 (C) manningshaun@yahoo.com
Peoria PD TERRY L. PYATT 309-697-9325 (H)
Rock Island FD NICK THOMPSON 309-314-6276 (C) nick3146276@yahoo.com
Indiana
Anderson FD & PD
Kokomo FD & PD CHANCE T. HENSLEY 765-621-5176 (C) c.hensley.pfia@gmail.com
Columbus FD AARON EICHEL 812-603-8641 (C) aaroneichel246@gmail.com Evansville FD & PD GREG LEHMAN 812-455-3443 (C) glehman64@gmail.com
Ft. Wayne PD KYLE HARTMAN 260-908-4726 (C) kyle.pfia@gmail.com
Hammond FD JEFF HARTLERODE 219-671-2167 (C) pfia707@gmail.com
Indianapolis FD ERIC HOFMEISTER 317-946-8551 (C) pfia332@gmail.com
Indianapolis PD DAVID V. ROTH 317-490-9008 (C) rothventure@gmail.com
Kokomo FD & PD CHANCE T. HENSLEY 765-621-5176 (C) c.hensley.pfia@gmail.com
Mishawaka/South Bend FD & PD NICK KAUFMAN 574-226-9681 (C) nikkik204@comcast.net
Richmond/ Connersville FD & PD MATT MATLOCK 937-409-1508 (C) mmatlock94@yahoo.com Iowa
Burlington FD KENNETH MORRIS 319-753-6285 (H)
Cedar Rapids FD LYLE THEISEN 319-462-3912 (H) lylepatthe@msn.com
Des Moines FD & PD RAYMOND A. GALLARDO 515-205-2414 (C) ray.gallardo13@gmail.com
West Des Moines FD DOUG REX 515-222-3423 (W) 515-991-3684 (C) dougrex1@gmail.com Kansas
Junction City FD, PD& Sheriff J. R. REYNOLDS 785-238-7835 (H) 785-375-1340 (C) j.r.jcfd@gmail.com
Kansas City FD
JIM CANADA 913-909-4585 pfia.jimcanada@gmail.com
Kentucky
Ashland FD & PD DAVID REDMAN 606-465-9344 (C) fdredman@yahoo.com
Covington/Northern Kentucky FD CHRIS HANDLEY 513-919-3521 (C) Chris.handley.pfia@gmail.com
Lexington FD PATRICK SUMNER 859-743-9485 (C) psumner1117@gmail.com
Lexington PD GARY THURMAN 859-351-4507 (C) thurnam.pfia@gmail.com Louisiana
Baton Rouge FD PAUL H. OWENS 225-772-4190 (C) pfiaowens48@gmail.com
Baton Rouge FD CAMERON WESLEY 225-937-0907 (C) camwesley97@gmail.com
Bossier City, PD/FD JOHN MORTON 318-455-6665 (C) pfiajohn764@gmail.com
Caddo Parish Sheriff PAMELA PURGERSON 318-617-9506 (C) pammypurg@gmail.com
Caddo Parish Sheriff JERRY SILVA 318-655-5627 (C) j.silva360@yahoo.com
Jefferson Parish Sheriff KIM LENTZ 985-774-4414 (C) 985-639-1723 (H) lentz1848@bellsouth.net
Lake Charles FD ANDREW LEE 337-764-3979 (C) drewglee@gmail.com
Livingston Parish FD PAUL H. OWENS 225-772-4190 (C) paulowens1948@gmail.com
Louisiana State PD NATHAN JAMES 318-773-2849 (C) njames2828@gmail.com
Mandeville FD ROBBY MARQUETTE 985-789-2814 (C) healthavengers@gmail.com
New Orleans FD ROXANNE HADLEY 504-234-2327 (C) ffhadley21@gmail.com
New Orleans & Kenner FD PAUL J. MELANCON 504-524-3878 (H) 504-430-1962 (C)
New Orleans PD DAVID G. LENTZ 985-649-5741 (H) nameck2@aol.com
Shreveport PD RODNEY HORTON 318-773-1232 (C) spdp386@comcast.net
Shreveport FD PATRICK DENNEY 318-349-8530 (C) patrickdenney398@gmail.com
Slidell FD LOUIS MELANCON 985-960-7651 (C) tamnlou@gmail.com
Slidell PD DAVID L. LENTZ 504-606-4427 (C) dlentz78@gmail.com
Maryland
MD National Capital Park PD ZENOBIA SANTANA 347-229-3561 (C) pfia.santana@gmail.com
Western PD, Sheriff, & Corrections ALLISON ARANA 304-839-6423 (C) allisonarana89@gmail.com
Massachusetts
Hampden County Sheriff ADAM APPLE 413-237-3233 (H) adamapple1418@yahoo.com
New Bedford FD & PD JAMES ESTRELLA III 774-473-0451 (C) james.estrella@newbedfordpd.com
Worcester PD TIMOTHY REYNOLDS 774-253-6432 (H) tcr316@live.com
Michigan
Flint PD MICHAEL P. SULLIVAN 810-814-3381 (C) sully1968@comcast.net
Grand Rapids FD BEN INGERSOLL 616-889-5112 (C) benjamin.j.ingersoll@gmail.com
Grand Traverse City FD & PD KARYL L. MOORE 231-947-1758 (H) dfivestar@chartermi.net
Wayne Co., PD HARVEY YOUNG 734-787-5372 (C) harveyy415@gmail.com
Missouri
Franklin/Jefferson Co. PD & Sheriff DONALD MEYER 314-471-7653 (C) donmeyerpfia@att.net
Kansas City FD MICHAEL FITZWATER 816-935-0405 (C) mikefitzpfia@gmail.com
Kansas City Metro Area DONNIE SHOOK 816-315-9943 (C) pfiashook@gmail.com St. Louis FD JACOB NEWMAN 314-706-2522 (C) jake.pfia@gmail.com St. Louis Co. PD MATTHEW CRECELIUS 314-341-4290 (C) mattcrecelius@gmail.com
St. Louis PD BRYAN BARTON 636-232-5318 (C) bryaly21@gmail.com
Nebraska
Lincoln FD & PD KARLA HOUFEK 402-499-1773 karlajhoufek@gmail.com
Omaha FD RANDY WOLODKEWITSCH 402-216-9664 (C) 402-571-2694 (H) pfia.rjw656@gmail.com
Omaha PD QUENO MARTINEZ 402-212-9336 (C) pfia307@gmail.com
New Jersey
Asbury Park FD & PD PATRICK CASTELLANO 732-804-1563 patrick_castellano@yahoo.com
Atlantic City FD & PD GENNARO BASSO 609-214-3002 (H) gennarobasso81@gmail.com
Bayonne FD ROBERT PILGER 201-638-5297 (H) rpilg@aol.com
Bayonne PD ALLAN SLATTERY 201-315-4314 (C) allanslattery1959@gmail.com
Bay Shore, Monmouth Co. PD, FD MICHAEL MICHALSKI 732-673-6402 (H) michalskipfia@gmail.com
Belleville FD & PD KYLE KONDRECK 201-341-2946 (C) kkondreckpfia@gmail.com
Bergen Co. PD, FD MICHAEL PARISE 973-271-0069 (H) mparisepfia@gmail.com
Bloomfield FD & PD KYLE KONDRECK 201-341-2946 (C) kkondreckpfia@gmail.com
Bradley Beach PD PATRICK CASTELLANO 732-804-1563 patrick_castellano@yahoo.com
Brick Township PD JOSEPH PACITTI 848-333-1259 (C) jpacittipfia@gmail.com
Camden County PD & FD
Cherry Hill FD ED MICUA 609-315-0609 (C) 856-428-3252 (H) edmicuapfia@verizon.net
Clifton FD,& PD JASON AYALA 973-249-7976 (H) samjay134@gmail.com
East Jersey/Trenton Corrections JORGE ORTIZ 201-680-8789 (C) pfiajortiz@gmail.com
East Jersey Corrections TREVOR T. MESSINA 973-861-2607 (C) tmessina.pfia@gmail.com
East Orange FD & PD KYLE KONDRECK 201-341-2946 (C) kkondreckpfia@gmail.com
Elizabeth FD & PD ANTHONY “FOGE” FAZIO 908-377-2052 (C) foge69@aol.com
Essex County Sheriff & Corrections KYLE KONDRECK 201-341-2946 (C) kkondreckpfia@gmail.com
Garfield PD CHAD DiGIORGIO 201-206-5183 (C) chadckfd@verizon.net
Glen Ridge PD KYLE KONDRECK 201-341-2946 (C) kkondreckpfia@gmail.com
Gloucester County FD & PD EDWARD VINCENT 856-316-2547 (C) edvincent.pfia@gmail.com Hackensack FD & PD MICHAEL PARISE 973-271-0069 (H) mparisepfia@gmail.com
Hoboken FD ROBERT PILGER 201-638-5297 (H) rpilg@aol.com
Hoboken PD ALLAN SLATTERY 201-315-4314 (C) allanslattery1959@gmail.com
Hudson Co. PD & Sheriff THOMAS MCKENNA 973-919-7158 (C) tommy.mck116@gmail.com
Irvington FD CHARLES WEST 973-945-4892 (C) 973-328-7974 (H) chuckwest@newarkfd.com
Irvington PD KYLE KONDRECK 201-341-2946 (C) kkondreckpfia@gmail.com
Jersey City FD ROBERT PILGER 201-638-5297 (H) rpilg@aol.com
Jersey City PD ALLAN SLATTERY 201-315-4314 (C) allanslattery1959@gmail.com
Linden FD STEPHEN SMIGELSKY 732-634-8582 (H) 732-236-3036 (C) srs214@msn.com
Long Branch FD & PD PATRICK CASTELLANO 732-804-1563
patrick_castellano@yahoo.com
Manasquan PD PATRICK CASTELLANO 732-804-1563 patrick_castellano@yahoo.com
Mercer County GREGORY A. SWANSON 609-352-9931 (C) njpfia@gmail.com
Middlesex County PD THOMAS RATAJCZAK 732-501-5604 (H) tjay103@yahoo.com
Middletown Twp. FD & PD MICHAEL MICHALSKI 732-673-6402 (H) michalskipfia@gmail.com
Monmouth Co. PD, FD, & Sheriff MICHAEL MICHALSKI 732-673-6402 (H) michalskipfia@gmail.com
Montclair FD CHARLES WEST 973-945-4892 (C) 973-328-7974 (H) chuckwest@newarkfd.com
Montclair PD KYLE KONDRECK 201-341-2946 (C) kkondreckpfia@gmail.com
Morris County FD & PD CHAD DiGIORGIO 201-206-5183 (C) chadckfd@verizon.net
Newark FD CHARLES WEST 973-945-4892 (C) 973-328-7974 (H) chuckwest@newarkfd.com
Newark PD MIKEY CARRILLO 973-951-8350 (C) mcpfia120@gmail.com
Newark PD ALEX MARTINEZ 973-390-1918 (C) alnpd@mac.com
Newark PD NAJEE WEBB 201-454-6845 (C) webbees99@aol.com
North Hudson FD ROBERT PILGER 201-638-5297 (H) rpilg@aol.com
Nutley FD & PD KYLE KONDRECK 201-341-2946 (C) kkondreckpfia@gmail.com
Passaic FD
PD JASON AYALA 973-249-7976 (H) samjay134@gmail.com
Passaic County Sheriff MISAEL MATOS 862-668-4386 (C) matosmisael@yahoo.com
Passaic County Sheriff THOMAS M. PANZARINO 973-296-8006 (C) bkckgangarino@gmail.com
Paterson FD & PD FRANK DAUNNO 973-330-2968 (C) jrdaun@aol.com
Paterson FD LUIS A. SANCHEZ III 201-638-3674 (C) lsanchez.pfia@gmail.com
Plainfield FD & PD NUNO CARVALHO 908-296-6871 (C) ncarvalho.pfia@gmail.com
Sussex County FD, PD, & Sheriff MICHAEL PARISE 973-271-0069 (H) mparisepfia@gmail.com
Trenton FD & PD GREGORY A. SWANSON 609-352-9931 (C) njpfia@gmail.com
Trenton FD ERIC JOHNSON 609-424-6011 (C) ejohnsonpfia@gmail.com
Trenton PD JASON BOUCHARD 609-510-8688 (H) jbouchard.pfia@gmail.com
Ventnor FD WILLIAM NAGLE 609-705-8450 (C) bubby129056@yahoo.com
Wallington FD & PD MICHAEL PARISE 973-271-0069 (H) mparisepfia@gmail.com
New Mexico
Colfax Co. FD & Sheriff PAUL MAY 832-724-5818 (C) pm3149@sbcglobal.net
New York
Albany PD
KYLE PARKER 518-944-6206 (C) kjparker@albany-ny.org
Albion Corrections THOMAS SUTTON 716- 471-9326 (C) co11to7@aol.com
Binghamton FD BRAD GUASCONI 607-644-2876 (C) usmcvet93@yahoo.com
Buffalo FD WENDY MAJTYKA-HARTMAN 716-479-2976 (C) ffwendi@gmail.com
Buffalo PD PAT MEEGAN 716-239-1845 (C) patmeegan.pfia@gmail.com
Buffalo PD ZACH WILLIAMS 716-982-4565 (C) zw6690@gmail.com
Cattaraugus County Sheriff NATHAN A. ROOT 716-938-2239 (W) 716-498-3252 (C) naroot@cattco.org
Irondequoit PD GREGORY KEHRER 518-229-7513 (C) gkehrer34@gmail.com
Monroe County Sheriff ALFRED N. DeROSA 585-208-3902 (C) aderosa58@gmail.com
New York State Court PD BRITTANY PARKER 518-859-9887 (C) baberrings@gmail.com
Niagara County Sheriff KEITH HETRICK III 716-622-6461 (C) keith.hetrick@gmail.com
Niagara Falls FD JOSEPH TORRE 716-940-8225 (C) j.torre@nypfia.org
Niagara Falls FD RISKY SANABRIA 716-550-0625 (C) rskpfia@gmail.com
Niagara Falls PD RICK FLECK III 716-807-6876 (C) precki17@aol.com
Rochester FD BRIAN WHITE 585-705-7179 (C) white.brian11@gmail.com
Schenectady FD MARK KARL 518-852-4953 (H) omm21@yahoo.com
Syracuse FD JAMES ENNIS 315-430-0340 (C) 315-468-8630 (H) jennis@twcny.rr.com
Syracuse PD TAYLOR ANDERSON 920-883-1437 (C) tanderson@syracusepolice.org
Troy FD RAYMOND J. DAVIS 518-573-8106 (C) sdavistroy@hotmail.com
Troy PD CHRISTOPHER J. PARKER 518-378-2283 (C) parkerc24@yahoo.com
Utica FD PETER A. CARUSO 315-725-5712 (C) pfiapete@yahoo.com
Utica PD PETER A. CARUSO III 315-269-4886 (C) paac3@yahoo.com
Wende State Corrections ZACHARY HANCZAROWSKI 716-697-8017 (C) zhanczarowski@gmail.com
Wende State Corrections NATONYA YARBOUGH 716-986-7321 (C) natonyayarbough@gmail.com
White Plains FD PATSY DeFONCE IV 914-505-1412 (C) patsydefonce@me.com
North Carolina
Charlotte FD TOM BREWER 704-200-8486 (C) brewer18c@gmail.com
Greensboro FD MATTHEW PATTERSON 336-382-4600 (C) mattsfiregfd@yahoo.com Winston-Salem FD DAVID POLLARD 336-403-7771 (C) wslocal682@gmail.com
Ohio
Akron PD DON G. TREJBAL 330-352-4502 (C) apd506@aol.com
Akron FD GREG GEARHART 330-351-2673 (C) gearhartpfia@gmail.com
Canton FD, Greentown FD, Massillon FD & PD & Stark Co. FD MARC R. JACKSON 330-904-9095 (C) cfd110@aol.com
Cincinnati PD GREG TOYEAS 513-738-4141 (H) 513-484-2459 (C) gregtoyeas@yahoo.com
Cincinnati FD CHRIS HANDLEY 513-919-3521 (C) chris.handley.pfia@gmail.com
Cleveland FD VINCE VIANCOURT 440-835-5647 (W) 216-534-6927 (C) benefits.consulting@yahoo.com
Cleveland PD DAN VIANCOURT 216-990-2882 (C) dsv.pfia@gmail.com
Columbus FD KURT DIETZ 614-332-2795 (C) kurt.pfia@gmail.com
Columbus FD BRADY SEDDELMEYER 419-233-6974 (C) bsedd@yahoo.com
Columbus FD KELLY STORTS 614-496-4544 (C) kemist14@hotmail.com
Columbus PD RICHARD A. HILSHEIMER II 614-402-8944 (C) rhilsheimer1469@gmail.com
Coshocton County FD & PD CORY WILSON 740-502-9240 (C) cwilsoniaff216@gmail.com
Dayton Region MATT MATLOCK 937-409-1508 (C) mmatlock94@yahoo.com
Hamilton Co., FD MATT NIEMER 513-919-6926 (C) me11an@yahoo.com
Marion FD & PD MICHAEL M. RADCLIFF 740-225-2120 (W) mandjradcliff@roadrunner.com
Toledo FD RYAN GRANT 419-340-7166 (C) rgrant.pfia@gmail.com
Youngstown FD SHAWN MURRAY 330-518-2966 (C) mur511.sm@gmail.com Oklahoma
Tulsa FD JIMMY OBER 918-260-6887 (C) joberfire@gmail.com
Tulsa PD DENNIS SMITH 918-282-7523 (C) popodad71@yahoo.com Pennsylvania
Chester FD & PD THOMAS THORNTON 267-275-5932 (C) tthornton2493@gmail.com
Delaware Co., FD & PD MARTIN KELLY 610-299-3656 (C) marty1297@aol.com
Erie FD TIM ROMANSKI 814-572-2323 (C)
Johnstown FD ROBERT J. OPETT 814-659-9313 (C) opett24@ymail.comre
McKeesport FD & PD JEFFREY D. TOMOVCSIK 412-523-3903 (C) 412-675-5050 Ext.640 (W) jtomo170@comcast.net
Penn. Law Enforcement JONATHON RUSH 412-952-5615 (C) jrush21488@hotmail.com
Penn. State Corrections VINCENT HEISS 814-241-2887 (C) 814-237-708- (W) 814-237-2429 (F) vinndinsurance@gmail.com
Philadelphia FD TIMOTHY G. McSHEA 267-331-0606 (C) tbonemick17@gmail.com
Philadelphia FD WILLIAM HAFTEK 201-341-9677 (C) wphaftek@gmail.com
Philadelphia FD JASON MILES 267-718-5093 (C) jasonmilespfd@gmail.com
Pittsburgh FD DONALD DORSEY 412-680-9351 (H)
Pittsburgh FD RICKY STEWART 412-613-3980 (C) rickypbf@gmail.com
Pittsburgh PD CARL R. MOROSETTI, JR. 412-600-2806 (C) crm3393@gmail.com
Scranton FD & PD & Waymart Corrections ANDY POLANSKY 570-961-9024 (H) 570-878-1248 (C) andy.polansky@verizon.net
Rhode Island
Johnston Corrections VINCENT ORTEZ 401-263 -9714 (C) compaq102082@gmail.com
Johnston PD SETH D. CROSBY 401-641-1575 (C) scros788@gmail.com
Johnston PD DAVID GALLIGAN 401-419-7967 (C) davegalligan@yahoo.com
Pawtucket FD & East Providence FD RAYMOND J. MASSE 401-639-0164 (H) pfia1261@gmail.com
Providence FD ANTHONY LANCELLOTTI 401-569-3551 (C) 401-946-6939 (H) alance6055@gmail.com
Providence PD RALPH ABENANTE IV 401-225-6530 (C) rabenante4@yahoo.com
South Carolina
North Charleston PD MICHAEL FIGUEROA 973-477-0749 (C) mfigpfia@gmail.com
North Myrtle Beach FD & PD RICHARD BUDDELMEYER 843-249-5334 (C) rickbuddelmeyer@yahoo.com
Tennessee
Knoxville FD JUSTIN HARMOND 865-340-6812 (C) jharmonpfia@outlook.com
Nashville FD
ADDIS KENDALL 615-533-8685 (C) rakendall13@gmail.com Texas
Amarillo FD, PD, & Corrections JOE C. PONDER 806-584-0953 (C) joeponder2012@yahoo.com Beaumont PD JARROD MIRELES 409-284-5220 (C) neilmireles@gmail.com
Bedford PD D.J. CROWELL 817-791-3224 (C) dpmt824@gmail.com
Bee County FD, PD, Sheriff & Corrections DANIEL RODRIGUEZ 361-354-8901 (C) dr1856635@gmail.com
Bee County FD, PD, Sheriff & Corrections RICHARD L. WEBB 361-319-3758 (C) urout_78102@yahoo.com
Brazoria County FD, PD, Sheriff & Corrections PATRICK WARE 936-581-3309 (H) txpware@outlook.com
Coryell Co. FD & PD MIKE CLOUDS 936-293-0486 (C) mlclouds@yahoo.com
Denton County Sheriff LES WOODS 817-675-6151 (C) lwpfia@yahoo.com
El Paso Sheriff LUIS D. RODRIGUEZ 915-294-8385 (C) lrodriguezpfi@yahoo.com
Gurney Unit Corrections CINDY ARNOLD 903-724-9007 (C) cindyarnold18@yahoo.com
Harris County PD, Sheriff & Corrections MARTY KUEHN 281-935-4610 (C) mk0160@yahoo.com
Harrison County Police & Fire FLOYD DUNCAN 903-930-9721 (C) 903-777-3694 (H) dleader59@protonmail.com
Kileen FD CODY NEWMAN 254-981-6110 (C) codynewman1978@protonmail.com
McAllen FD ERIC RAMIREZ 956-607-7549 (C) esmr412@gmail.com
McAllen PD ROLANDO CASTILLO 956-655-8476 (H) r.c.21@hotmail.com
McLennan County Sheriff SHEILA THUN 254-405-3797 (C) sdthun@ctwa.com
Montgomery County PD, Sheriff & Corrections THOMAS M. PIERCE 936-355-0490 (C) toetee@aol.com
Orange FD & PD MATTHEW SLAGLE 409-781-7176 (C) matthewslagle83@gmail.com
Pasadena FD, PD, & Corrections J.C. ROCK 832-457-1685 (H) rockfish007@gmail.com
Port Arthor FD &PD TARAH MIRELES 409709-3633 (H) tarahm55@yahoo.com
Port Arthur FD LARRY PELAEZ 409-221-7395 (C) jpelaez@gmail.com
San Antonio FD JOE VALADEZ 210-654-3333 (H) 210-884-7651 (F) valadezjp@aol.com
San Antonio FD RUBEN CEVALLOS 210-861-4578 (C) ruben.cevallos@gmail.com
San Antonio FD JOHN MOORE III 210-379-8229 (C) jrmoore3@att.net
Smith County Sheriff WANDA HUNTER 903-710-2769 (H) 903-511-6819 (C)
Tarrant County Sheriff STEFAN HODNETT 817-343-3300 (C) smhodnett@aol.com
Tarrant County Sheriff & surrounding Metropolis area TANYA YOUNG 817-988-9704 (C) 817-292-5388 (F) tanyayoung7800@sbcglobal.net
Victoria County FD, PD, & Corrections RICHARD COSS 361-541-7477 (C) pfiavictoriatx@yahoo.com
Walker County FD, PD, Sheriff & Corrections TARA M. BURNETT 936-668-9193 (C) burnett.t2013@yahoo.com
Webb County Sheriff JOEY MEDELLIN 956-652-8640 (C) jmedellin.pfia@gmail.com Virginia
Henrico County PD JIM LIVINGSTONE 804-338-9791 (C) jlivings1@gmail.com
Loudoun County FD, PD, Sheriff, & Corrections MICHAEL COX 571-528-3400 (C) pfia.va226@gmail.com
Norfolk FD DAVE CHERESKIN 757-621-1111 (C) dchereskin77@gmail.com
Page County FD, PD, Sheriff, & Corrections MICHAEL WAGONER 540-860-2382 (C) kc8jpk03@gmail.com
Portsmouth FD KURT DETRICK 571-233-6901 (C) kurtdetrick@gmail.com
Prince William FD DANIEL WILLIAMS 240-398-1114 (C) foxtrotwhiskey14@gmail.com
Prince William Co., PD MARCIA WHALEY 571-259-7034 (C) pwpfia@gmail.com Washington, D. C.
Washington, D.C. FD WESLEY BANNER 540-604-4518 (C) wbdcfdt16@outlook.com
Washington, D.C. PD RYAN McKENZIE EVANS 202-200-9735 (C) pfia.ryanevans@gmail.com
Washington, D.C. PD MIGUEL MIRANDA 202-439-2292 (C) miguel.miranda@verizon.net West Virginia
Huntington FD & PD RANDY D. ELLIS 740-886-5388 (H) 304-633-4975 (C) Wyoming
Laramie City FD, PD & Sheriff B. JOHN FITZGERALD 307-775-9610 (H) jcatfitz@msn.com
State Penitentiary of Rawlins HAROLD KOSTECK 307-710-4951 (C) hkosteck@gmail.com
PFIA’S Charitable Fund
PFIA’S Charitable Fund
PFIA can accept charitable contributions to the Fund that are tax deductible for the person or company donating.
The Board consists of the Executive Committee and two other current Board Members. The Board will determine every December meeting how much PFIA will contribute to the fund and then distribute the funds to predetermined charities. The fund will be distributed to a zero balance and start over on January 1st of every year. We will lean heavily towards children and military families. The four funds that we will contribute to will be: Make-A-Wish Foundation®, Special Olympics, Special Operations Warrior Foundation, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Everyone gives money to charities of their choice, but we think that giving our members a place to give — where they know 100% of funds are distributed to charities close to their heart — will be a very benevolent endeavor.
We think that will be a great extension of our fraternal mission and hope it is received well and becomes the go-to place for members to help others. What better way to fulfill our fraternal mission in today’s society with over 100 years of service with donating money to the deserving funds listed?
General Contributions:
Jerry & Mary Jane Housel
Memorial Contributions to Honor the Memory of DALENE TREJBAL
Thank you
Tom & Cheri Clines
Ruben & Machele Cevallos
Tom Evans & Kelly Pollock
Mike & Patty Carrigan
Ed & Nancy Griffith
Susan Shinabarger-Woolf
Memorial Contributions to Honor the Memory of TOM GIAMPIETRO, SAL VALVO, ALAN MELANCON, DAVE BRUNNER, AND TOM JACKSON
Thank you
Ed & Nancy Griffith
If you are interested in becoming a contributor or if you would like to donate, please make a check payable to PFIA Charitable Fund and put in the memo “charitable contribution,” or write a note and put it in the envelope and mail to: PFIA
ATTN: John Murphy 101 East 116th Street Carmel, IN 46032
Memorial Contributions to Honor the Memory of DEBBIE KEMP
Thank you
Mark Kemp
Tom & Cheri Clines
Jim Snyder & Dana Taylor
Tom Evans & Kelly Pollock
Mike & Patty Carrigan
Jerry & Mary Jane Housel
Ed & Nancy Griffith
Susan Shinabarger-Woolf
Memorial Contributions to Honor the Memory of KATHLEEN VIANCOURT
Thank you
Tom Evans & Kelly Pollock
Memorial Contributions to Honor the Memory of TOM JACKSON
Thank you
Mark Kemp
HELP
FIND THESE Missing Children
Our members are in a unique position to spot missing children. PFIA urges you to make a special effort to try to locate these missing children. If seen, contact the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children immediately at 1-800-843-5678 or report a sighting online at www.missingkids.com. You may also call or visit the website for free abduction prevention tips.
MISSING • HELP BRING ME HOME
AMONI GOMES
Sex: Female Height: 5’4”
Race: Black Weight: 120 Birth: 6/1/2006 Eyes: Brown Age Now: 16 Hair: Brown
Missing: January 14, 2022 Washington, D.C.
BRANDY DUTY
Sex: Female Height: 5'3”
Race: White Weight: 135 Birth: 3/3/2006 Eyes: Brown Age Now: 16 Hair: Brown
Missing: August 31, 2022 Huntington, WV
MACKENZIE LOWERY
Sex: Female Height: 5’1”
Race: Am. Indian Weight: 135 Birth: 2/8/2005 Eyes: Blue Age Now: 17 Hair: Black
Missing: November 14, 2022 Sapulpa, OK
SLE MA
Sex: Female Height: 4’11”
Race: Asian Weight: 105 Birth: 3/14/2007 Eyes: Brown Age Now: 15 Hair: Black
Missing: October 29, 2022 Kansas City, MO
JOSHUA PONCE-REYES
Sex: Male Height: 5'10”
Race: Am. Indian Weight: 180 Birth: 9/7/2005 Eyes: Brown Age Now: 17 Hair: Black
Missing: April 6, 2022 Colorado Springs, CO
NELSON CRUZ-REDONDO
Sex: Male Height: 5’6”
Race: Hispanic Weight: 130 Birth: 10/19/2005 Eyes: Brown Age Now: 17 Hair: Black
Missing: November 4, 2022 Indianapolis, IN