Virginia
LIFELINE
3rd Quarter 2018 The Official Publication of the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads
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Hometown Hero— Kenneth Frenier Driven by his dedication to public safety, Kenneth Frenier entered the Cadet Firefighter program in Colonial Heights in 1973 and served until his retirement in 2007 as a Battalion Chief. Kenneth continues to serve the Colonial Heights community as a member of its city council and as the sole American Red Cross disaster response representative to the area while simultaneously balancing the roles of husband, father, and grandfather. When asked if he’d ever consider a leisurely retirement, he said, “Public safety is my way of life and I plan to continue to give all I can. I feel it’s my duty and responsibility.” “Public safety is a way of life for me and I plan to continue to give all I can. I believe it’s my duty and responsibility to the community.”
Meet Hometown Hero Kenneth Frenier: Kenneth is a selfless, passionate retired firefighter who has poured a relentless amount of hard work into protecting the safety of the Colonial Heights community. Driven by his dedication to public safety, Kenneth entered the Cadet Firefighter program in Colonial Heights in 1973, at just 14-years-old. He went on to serve with the Colonial Heights Fire and EMS full time, until his retirement in 2007 as a Battalion Chief. Kenneth is a Life-Time Active member of the Colonial Heights Fire and EMS and continues to volunteer as a part time logistics officer. Kenneth continues to serve the Colonial Heights community as a member of its city council and as the sole American Red Cross disaster response representative to the area. He provides emergency medical care and assists in recovery efforts to people in disaster situations. Kenneth does all of this while simultaneously balancing the roles of husband, father, and grandfather. “Being nominated as a Hometown Hero came as a surprise to me! I do what I do because it’s second nature.”
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2017-2018 VAVRS Officers and Committee Chairs President - Scott Davis Vice President - Connie Moore Secretary - Wesley Melson Treasurer - Wayne Rapp Training Officer - Curtis Crawford Chaplain - Gary Dalton Chaplain Emeritus - Page Entsminger Historian - Dreama Chandler Immediate Past President - Kim Craig Chief Rescue Officer - John Craig Editor - Gary Dalton Parliamentarian - J. C. Phillips Facilities Manager - George Langford Legal Advisor - Mary Malone Medical Advisor - Dr. Scott Hayes District 1 Vice President - Nick Brown District 2 Vice President - Carolyn White District 3 Vice President - Chris Snyder District 5 Vice President - Mike Smoot District 6 Vice President - Scottie Adams District 7 Vice President - Toby Akers District 8 Vice President - Thomas Tomlin District 9 Vice President - Dwayne Stanley District 10 Vice President - Byron Andrews Executive Director - Matt Henke Training Coordinator - Kathy Eubank Office Assistant - Cindy Bailey Bookkeeper - Cynthia Babb Lobbyist - Ed Rhodes
Membership - Connie Moore Human Resources - Connie Moore Bylaws - Bruce Stratton Life Membership - Mike Moore Publication - Gary Dalton Conference - Tarry Pribble Conference Co Chair - Bubby Bish Finance - Wayne Rapp Future Vision - Kenny Frenier EMS Advisory Board - Valeta Daniels EMS Advisory Board - Dreama Chandler Rescue College - Wayne Myers New Course Development - Jason Morgan Scholarship - Greg Burton Public Relations Social Media - Wesley Melson Recruitment & Retention - Wesley Melson Rescue Hall of Fame - Lin Matthews EMS Exchange - Kevin Dillard Legislative - Bubby Bish Information Technology - Steve Ayers Camporee Event - Scott Masincup Nominating - Kevin Dillard
2017-2018 VAJVRS Officers President - Adarah Williams Vice President - Brandon Propst Secretary/Treasurer - Sheriz Chisley-Strickler Historian - Kimber Murphy Chaplain - Maryellen West Advisor Chair - Alfred Smith
2017-2018 AVAVRS Officers and Committee Chairs President - Ailease Short Vice President - Fay Browning Secretary - Vickie Arnold Treasurer - Elsie Butler Chaplain - Clara Craig Historian - Linda Berkstresser Parliamentarian - Carolyn Brand Immediate Past President - Harry Householder Midwestern Vice President - Garland Linkous Northeastern Vice President - Marie Householder Southcentral Vice President - Joan Smoot Southeastern Vice President - Judy Frame Southwestern Vice President - Diane Haga Western Vice President - Laura Booze
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Conference - Maxine Kerns Conference - Ruth Swicegood Nominating - Fern Puckett Life Membership - Dolores Hudson Emergency Care - Nellie Sue Ritchie Roll Call - Christie Jefferies Roll Call - Valerie Becker Fundraising - Stacey Frame Fundraising - Tracey Frame
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Deadline for the Upcoming Issues of the VIRGINIA LIFELINE Deadline for future issues are as follows: Sept 1, 2018 for the Convention 2019 Issue
Photos and/or graphics are acceptable and can be returned if requested.
Oct 1, 2018 for the 4th Quarter 2018 Issue Jan 1, 2019 for the 1st Quarter 2019 Issue April 1, 2019 for the 2nd Quarter 2019 Issue July 1, 2019 for the 3rd Quarter 2019 Issue
Contact the VAVRS Editor (editor@vavrs.com) if you need assistance submitting to the publication.
Sept 1, 2019 for the Convention 2019 Issue Oct 1, 2019 for the 4th Quarter 2019 Issue
Advertising Rates: Member Squads…,…......no charge
Articles may be submitted by any member of the VAVRS, AVAVRS and VAJVRS. Feature articles are encouraged.
Full Page…………………..$ 275.00 Half Page………………..…$150.00 Quarter Page……………....$100.00 Business Card……………..$ 50.00
From the Editor, Welcome to the pages of VIRGINIA LIFELINE. I hope all is well with you and your families and that you find the articles and photos in this issue interesting and informative. Attending the 2018 VAVRS Rescue College for the first time in over 25 years without my teaching partner made me realize that death may take the body, God takes the soul, our minds hold the memories, our heart keeps the Love and our faith lets us know we will meet again”….we miss you Karen D. Wagner and all the inspiration you brought to our lives. 6673 Page
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The Chaplain Connection Corner Submitted by Gary Dalton, VAVRS Chaplain
Why I volunteer…. Even the most devoted volunteers experience a lack of inspiration and motivation from time to time. As a volunteer leader, it’s you who can change this. You can encourage your volunteers, engage and motivate them to grow, and become a source of inspiration! There are many ways you can do this. What is one simple way? Sometimes the right words can perform magic, helping us reach new horizons and inspiring us to do good for others. Share these awesome quotes to inspire your volunteers (and yourself next time your organization can use a little extra motivation!) “Wherever you turn, you can find someone who needs you. Even if it is a little thing, do something for which there is no pay but the privilege of doing it. Remember, you don’t live in the world all of your own.” ~Albert Schweitzer “Everybody can be great. Because anybody can serve. You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and your verb agree to serve…. You don’t have to know the second theory of thermodynamics in physics to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.” ~Martin Luther King, Jr. “You can study government and politics in school, but the best way to really understand the process is to volunteer your time.” ~Rob McKenna “Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart.” ~Elizabeth Andrew “You make a living by what you get. You make a life by what you give.” ~Winston Churchill “Volunteers are the only human beings on the face of the earth who reflect this nation’s compassion, unselfish caring, patience, and just plain loving one another.” ~Erma Bombeck “You may not have saved a lot of money in your life, but if you have saved a lot of heartaches for other folks, you are a pretty rich man.” ~Seth Parker “Volunteering is the ultimate exercise in democracy. You vote in elections once a year, but when you volunteer, you vote every day about the kind of community you want to live in”. ~Author Unknown “The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention.” ~Oscar Wilde Official
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Forest View Receives ODEMSA Region Squad of the Year Submitted by Fran Phillips Forest View Volunteer Rescue Squad located in Chesterfield county recently received the ODEMSA Region Squad of the Year Award. This award is significant because ODEMSA is the largest EMS region in the state with 109 EMS agencies affiliated. It is a part of the 11 regional councils under the Virginia State Office of EMS and oversees 6,000 providers. This is the first time Forest View has ever received this award. Forest View has been working diligently to increase staffing and provide Chesterfield county with more ambulances on the streets. In March 2017, Forest View began operating out of Chesterfield Fire Station #5 and has thus been able to provide critical prehospital care to a larger community of people. In addition to an attention to staffing, Forest View has been focused on providing more educational opportunities to its members and the community. Forest View has offered an EMT-B class the last two years and has allowed open registration to the community. Forest View also emphasizes continuing education courses and even hosted a super CEU weekend in February 2017. Throughout the year, Forest View also continues to provide other CEU opportunities with the most recent class speaking to the current human trafficking epidemic in the United States. Forest View stands out from other squads in the state of Virginia due to its desire to foster and develop future leaders. Forest View has offered four weekend-long leadership retreats to its members. At these retreats, members have the opportunity to hear from community leaders and participate in team building exercises. Also, members have the opportunity to spend time in fellowship with other members to foster better team work on EMS calls and more cohesiveness between the various roles at Forest View. The retreat also features the signing of the PRIDE pledge signifying a dedication to professionalism, respect, integrity, dedication and enthusiasm. Forest View recently updated its mission statement to include the core values of PRIDE (professionalism, respect, integrity, dedication and enthusiasm). Forest View is very excited and honored to have received this award. Forest View will continue to promote excellence in prehospital emergency medical care for its community.
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Waynesboro Auxiliary Submitted by Historian Cece Mccormick/Jill Stachowski Hello everyone from the Waynesboro First Aid Crew Auxiliary. We’ve had a very slow few months but with that being said we’d like to let everyone know we just celebrated Sis’s 95th Birthday. We also had another breakfast with the Paw Patrol, what a great time for all the kids. Well everyone stay cool and enjoy the rest of your summer.
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LifeCare Adds New Station in Southwest Virginia Submitted by Sara Hunt LifeCare Medical Transports is growing and providing additional EMS transportation services in the Southwest region of Virginia. Two new stations have recently opened their doors in Danville, Virginia and Martinsville, Virginia. Six new ambulances are being
wrapped and lettered, and will be heading down to these new stations from LifeCare’s Stafford County, Virginia headquarters by mid-July. LifeCare now employs more the 600 providers throughout the Commonwealth, and has a fleet of more than 140 vehicles. Along with this growth comes new and exciting training opportunities including an upcoming Hybrid EMT program, as well as a recently approved Hybrid EVOC course. Individuals interested in these training opportunities as well as employment with LifeCare are encouraged to contact the LifeCare Human Resources Department: HR@LifeCare94.com or 540-752-7721. Official
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Colonial Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad honored several special people who passed away over the past year. Submitted by Sara Hunt PR A Memorial Day wreath was placed by (left to right) former CBVRS member Steve Zirkle, CBVRS Assistant Chief Pat FitzGerald and CBVRS Rescue Chief Joey Straughan. The wreath was in memory of Life Members Carlton Hudson, Jack Shelar and Walt Warner; Auxiliary/Support Team Members Connie Klopsis and Frank “Skip” Lincoln, Jr.; and former CBVRS member Fuller Packett.
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A glimpse into……AVAVRS Rescue College 2018 Submitted by Maxine Kerns 2018 was another year to enlighten auxiliary members, exposing them to a weekend of Robert’s Rules, parliamentary law, minutes, breakout sessions, voting, majority, 2/3, & plurality terminology, just for starters. Carolyn Brand, Parliamentarian, discussed bylaws, President Ailease Short, Vice President Fay Browning, and Convention Chair Maxine Kerns, discussed their duties. Fran & JC Phillips oversaw the class and shared insight throughout the weekend! Lots to share in 2 days! Whew! Rescue College exposes the member to the rudiments and necessities we encounter in the auxiliary. It helps prepare you to become part of the family and introduces you to the vast educational opportunities beyond your local auxiliary. Rewards are many…serving others, sharing ideas, learning about the community, fellowship, information, recruitment and retention, to name a few! All of this information is in store at Rescue College, where people from all walks of life are dedicated to donating their time, talent, interests, $$ & energy.
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Taking various courses helps broaden the scope of their journey and it seems to have worked since this is the 38th year an auxiliary class has been offered. Please keep in touch and consider taking the auxiliary management class…..regardless of whether it is your first visit or twenty first visit, you will learn something! Auxiliary officers are especially encouraged to participate so they can take information back to their people, while making the best of an auxiliary meeting or function! Also… remember to have some fun along the way!!!!!! Rescue College……. A great tool to use in the auxiliary meeting room, at your local event, in the community and in the presence of other dedicated members. All of whom thirst after knowledge and eagerly tackle the challenges of the AVAVRS! You will be glad you joined the team…..Stay tuned…. and Enjoy!!!!!
AVAVRS Convention Chair Greetings Submitted by Maxine Kerns, AVAVRS Convention Chair An April, 2018 site visit to the Holiday Inn North, 39th St and the Convention Center at 1000 19th St, VA Beach answered many questions for the AVAVRS. Excited since September, we were eager to take on the new challenges and address our multitude of questions. The Holiday Inn with its renovations and oceanfront view, offers members a great visit, is close to the Convention Center on 19th St, & should make travel easier. The Convention Center, with impressive, spacious meeting rooms and layouts, will provide a new look and atmosphere, for auxiliary meetings. In addition, exhibits will be just steps away. AVAVRS, VAVRS & VAJVRS meetings are all in the same building. The VAVRS Opening at the Convention Center is Thursday 9/27 @ 9 am, followed by Auxiliary meetings: Thurs 9/27 @ 1 pm, Fri 9/28 @ 10 am & Sat 9/29 Breakfast is @ 8 am & the business meeting follows @ 9 am. Remember to purchase a breakfast ticket for $10. A major change for 2018 is everyone 16 & up must purchase a registration packet for $50.00. This entitles members and guests to the following: VAVRS sponsored events, Opening, VAVRS Picnic, Casino Night, Sat night Installation and Awards, seminars, continuing educational classes, training events, and to compete in competitions. For those who only plan to attend the Sat night Memorial Service, a pass is available, upon request from the VAVRS. No registration is required to visit the vendor’s area (exhibits). Officers are working behind the scene, reviewing data to present awards to deserving members, data is about to be transcribed, Stacey and Tracey Frame as your fundraising team are also hard at work, and President Ailease Short has been our # 1 cheerleader, encouraging us to “Leave Footprints for Others To Follow”. We hope AVAVRS convention meetings are informative, enlightening, uplifting and plan to offer a surprise or two. With all the great things you are doing, look for footprints all around………. & let’s celebrate! Stay tuned and Enjoy! Maxine Kerns, Convention Chair Page
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Vona L. La Claire - Chancellor VF&R Frank E. Lincoln Jr. - Colonial Beach VRS Banie N. Luck - Forest View VRS Aux. Curtis Mason - King William F&R Betty McCraw - Citizens EC Terrance "Terry" McKinney - Danville LSC Matthew T. McLeod - Chancellor VF&R Charles A Miller - Forest View VRS Betty C. Arthur - Campbell Co RS Aux Joyce S. Atkins - Henrico VRS Aux Steven A. Bales - Glade Spring VLSC Patricia E. Bates - Founder's Aux-Clifton Forge RS Wilbert “Butch” Beasley Jr – Southside VA EC Robert H. "Rob" Braithwaite III - Virginia Beach VRS Lawrence V. "Rita" Bryant - Lynchburg LSC I. Wayne Butler - Henrico VRS James M. "Jim" Chandler - VA Tech RS Rev. Thomas S. Childrey - Brunswick VRS Gary Lee Clark - Millwood Station VF & R Bonnie C. Coghill - Prince George EC Patricia U. Connor - Gretna RS James S. Cook – Brunswick VRS Sam H. "Pete" Crawley - Gretna RS Carl E. Crowder - Basset RS Dreama Crutchfield - Clifton Forge RS W. Steven Davis Sr. - Giles Co LS & RS Robin W. DeBord - Stafford RS Hilda C. Finch - Brunswick VRS John T. Fray - Madison Co RS Carol C. Harding - Henrico VRS Aux Robert W. "Buddy" Harper - Southside RS
Fred C Morene - Hopewell EC Wanda B. Morehead - Long Shop-McCoy RS Dan Moses Sr. - Luray VRS Della J. Murphy - Pipers Gap RS Walter T. “Tommy” Nichols – Campbell Co RS Joseph L. Powell Sr. – Brunswick VRS Glady L. Pugh - Citizens EC Carey M. Ramsey - Madison Co RS Aux Frank E. Redd - Bassett RS Dorothy L. Reed - Forest View VRS John W. Reeves - Pipers Gap RS Robbie Robertson - Nansemond Suffolk RS Barry E. Rose - Clifton Forge RS John "Jack" C. Shelar - Colonial Beach VRS Lawrence E. Slough Jr. – Buena Vista VRS Dick Smith - Lake of the Woods RS Julian M. Smith – Christiansburg RS Ruth A. Stanley – Glade Spring VLSC Sandra G. Tatum - Madison Co RS Aux James C. Thomas Jr. – Brunswick VRS Margie P. Vassar – Citizens EC Karen D. Wagner - Woodstock VRS Walter P. Warner – Colonial Beach VRS
Mary E. "Liz" Heinbuch - Greater Manassas VRS A. B. Hoback - Salem RS Charles. R. Houchins Jr. - Nottoway Co ES Justin Howard - Southside VA EC J. Carlton Hudson – Colonial Beach VRS Arthur C. Hunt Sr. – Madison Co RS Charlie W. King - Danville LSC Marjorie H. Lamar - Madison Co RS Page
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Agencies and Members - Please send information regarding VAVRS members that have passed away between September 1, 2017 and August 31, 2018 to chaplain@vavrs.com so they can be recognized during the 2018 VAVRS Memorial Service. 3rd
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Greetings from your AVAVRS President Submitted by Ailease Short Whew!! What a spring and summer we have had. I feel like I have been on road since March. I have enjoyed every minute of it. Attended Southeastern District meeting in March at East Hanover. Then off to Spring officers Workshop in Roanoke. Had a very good meeting. Surprised everyone with a “spelling Bee” contest and found out that Janis Slough is our prize speller with the word “diaphoretic”. Congrats Janis! Thanks to District 6 for the delicious meal and fellowship on Friday night. On March 31st attended District 2 meeting in Stony Creek. What a great meal! In April, Maxine Kerns, Fay Browning, Maddux Short, and myself took a trip to Virginia Beach to work on plans for the upcoming convention. Met with hotel staff and convention center staff and hope we have things in order for a great convention in September. We met “Tonka the Turtle” at the Holiday Inn 39th Street where headquarters will be this year. Please visit Tonka when you come to the beach in September. Later in April we were off to Buena Vista for the annual Camporee. A great time was had by all. Had great attendance by the Auxiliary folks. In May, Fay Browning and myself were guests of Maxine Kerns in Winchester for the Apple Blossom parade. WOW! What a great time we had. They treated Fay and I like celebrities along with Richard Petty, Dan Mareno, and Sara Evans. We attended a prayer breakfast while there with 450 people in attendance to hear Billy Graham’s daughter speak. We then rode in the parade on Friday night and you talk about a parade. Firetrucks as far as you could see and parade lasted about 3 hours! Then Millwood Station has a reception afterwards at the squad building. On Saturday we were treated to a meet and greet with the celebrities I mentioned. Thanks Maxine for a great time. On June 10th, Maddux and I attended the 50th Anniversary at Staunton Rescue Squad Auxiliary. A great time and congratulations to them on 50 years. Attended and helped with Auxiliary management Class at Rescue College at Virginia Tech in June. A great class and was enjoyed by all attending. Thanks Fran and J.C Phillips for a job well done. On way home from rescue College attended the 60th Anniversary party for Cave Spring Rescue Squad. Another great evening. As you see everyone ha been busy the last few months. Thanks for including us in all your activities. We are getting geared up now for Convention coming up at Virginia Beach in September. Hope to see all of you there. A great time is planned. Thanks to all of you for all the “footprints you are leaving for others to follow”. You a great bunch and keep up the good work. Your squads and communities depend on you. Official
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2018 VAVRS RESCUE COLLEGE Submitted by Curtis Crawford, VAVRS Training Officer Rescue College 2018 is a wrap. We enjoyed ten days packed full of learning, advancing, fellowship, networking, and overall fun. Rescue College is the flagship event for training for the VAVRS and provides a prime opportunity to sale our organization. One of the first classes that most EMS personnel take is the EVOC course. This fact reinforces the importance of the instructors’ role to introduce new EMS personnel to emergency services and prepare them for their future careers. Rescue College is VAVRS’s opportunity to elevate the mission of creating resources for training and professional development for those in the emergency services field. This year’s Rescue College continued to pull the same attendance and interest as previous years. On a positive note, we saw a decrease in the number of absentees compared to the previous year, which reflects an increase in the value of our programming. We are still collect data from the post-College survey. We hope to have the full data set soon, but preliminary result shows an overall participant enjoyment of upper 4s out of 5. Feedback indicated that participants were very pleased with the experience and overall atmosphere. The positive response is a result of the hard work from our Rescue College volunteers. A huge thanks should be given to Kathy, Cyndi, and Matt for all the work that they have put in with registrations and paperwork prior to College. This was Matt’s first Rescue College and he hit the ground running. The VAVRS office staff is a strong backbone of our organization and work hard so we can further our organization. Special thanks to Toby Akers, District Seven Vice President for his help during the week. The Rescue College Committee did a lot of work this past year and during the week to make things smooth. Steve Southworth, Alfred and Linda Smith, Jimmy Rice, Kelly Walters, Adarah Williams, John Craig, Kathy Eubank and Ailease Short made up a strong group. A great group can only work as well as its leadership and Wayne Myers has lead this group and past groups to the same goals of improving and advancing Rescue College as the chair. Wayne is a strong leader and has proven himself to be a strong voice and beacon to lead training in the VAVRS. Rescue College can only improve from here. Plans are already in the works for next year, which include guest speakers and lectures along with some new classes to help providers. We are looking to have everything in brochures and out by Convention. We are also on Facebook @vavrsrc. Like us and keep informed on training and things to come. We will make announcements as they come. We are also working on videos for promotion and for memories of this past year. As soon as we gather all the picture, we will have those posted. Finally, we would like to thank you and the members of the VAVRS. Without you and your support, we could not exist. Your voice is important to us, please let us know what we can do to make Rescue College better. Email Curtis Crawford, our training officer, at mediccrawford@gmail.com and we will include your comments in our meetings and discussions. It takes everyone to do what we do and that includes you. Official
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Photos from the 2018 VAVRS Rescue College provided by Curtis Crawford, VAVRS Training Officer
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Kevin Dillard Honored with Good Scout Award Submitted by Sara Hunt, PR On Sunday, June 10, 2018, LifeCare President, Kevin Dillard, was honored by the Boy Scouts of America with the “Good Scout Award.” Kevin, an Eagle Scout himself, was recognized for leading a life that exemplifies the Boy Scout Oath and Laws. This special event was held at the Fredericksburg Country Club with a room full of family, friends and business associates. A special video presentation was made that showed Kevin through the years … always there to serve and lead. Prior award recipient Congressman Rob Wittman presented Kevin with the award. Throughout the building were awards and photos of Kevin as he progressed in his scouting career into his EMS career. Included in this display was his original Boy Scout uniform that his mother had kept well preserved. His Boy Scout accomplishments included: The order of the Arrow, Senior Patrol Leader, God and Country Award, and of course, The Eagle Scout Award. Recent awards include: The Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year, the Governor’s Award for Excellence in EMS, as well as many awards for throughout the years for the successes of LifeCare Medical Transports.
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Meeting with Future EMS Providers
Group shot of the kids with the CBVRS ambulance.
Submitted by Sara Hunt, PR Some members of Colonial Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad celebrated National EMS Week by sharing their expertise with pre-kindergartners at Colonial Beach Elementary School. Lt. Alex Smith read “Don’t Dance in My Ambulance” to the class, then Smith and Assistant Chief Pat Fitzgerald gave the kids a tour of their ambulance. The children were very interested in all of the equipment on the vehicle, such as the pulse oximeter which measures the amount of oxygen in the blood. “It’s never too early to learn about EMS work,” said FitzGerald. “We had a great time with this class.”
CBVRS Lt. Alex Smith is reading to the children, and CBVRS Assistant Chief Pat FitzGerald is next to her. Page
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Little boys are looking at the pulse oximeter, which measures the amount of oxygen in the blood. 3rd
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PARLIAMENTARY LAW: Did you know? Submitted by J. C. Phillips, VAVRS Parliamentarian Did you know that there are six steps in the motion process? Most people think that all you do is, make a motion, discuss it and then vote. FOLLOWING ARE THE SIX STEPS IN THE MOTION PROCESS. Step 1 A member makes a motion. When we say “member” this person has a vote in your organization. Step 2 Another member seconds the motion. This person is usually in favor of the motion, but not necessarily. Step 3 The President, or the person who Chairs the meeting, states the motion, formally placing it before the assembly. Step 4 The members debate the motion. This step is usually the longest and most complicated of all of the steps in the motion process. Step 5 The President or Chair now puts the motion to a vote. This happens when the debate has ended. Step 6 The President or Chair announces the results of the vote. Although Robert Rules of Order list six steps in the motion process, most organizations just go through this process without realizing they have gone through these five or six steps. The membership is not interested in thinking about the six steps, as long as they get to the results of the vote with no problem. If you want more detailed information on these six steps, they are listed on pages 32 through 48 of Roberts Rules of Order, 11th Edition. This reading is not very interesting to most people.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS VAVRS Convention - September 26-30, 2018 - Virginia Beach, VA Virginia EMS Symposium - November 7-11, 2018 - Norfolk, VA
2018 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETINGS September 24, 2018 - “TeleConvention” - 8:00 PM
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District 10 News Submitted by Kevin Dillard Recently District 10 placed a training trailer in service that helps to get the word out about our association and our district. This trailer was donated by Sterling Volunteer Rescue Squad and we used a combination of private donations and district funds to pay for the graphics. This trailer will carry half of the District 10 traffic cones and will be utilized across our district for EVOC courses and other training events. A message to all of the District 10 Instructors: If you want to reserve the trailer for your courses or other training contact District 10 Vice President Byron Andrews @ bandrews257@aol.com or District 10 Training Officer Jim Cromer @ jcromer@lcvrs.org.
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2018 VAVRS RESCUE COLLEGE CERTIFIES EVOC INSTRUCTORS Submitted by Bubby Bish/Gary Dalton, Coordinators The VAVRS welcomes 13 new EVOC Instructors to our ranks:
District 1 / Elkton ES-Paul Goulart District 2 / Medical Transport-Channen Holland and Milinda McDaniel-Ellis District 3 / Forrest Ambulance-Christopher Howell and Saul Mijangos District 5 / Citizens-David Branham, Appomattox-Logan Collins and Jeffrey Tyree Mt Cross VF&R-Daniel Farmer District 6 / Ridgeway District VRS-Ryan Mize and Khalil Murphy District 7 / Richlands VRS-Joshua Salyers District 10 / LifeCare Medical Transports-Raymond Brown.
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SARS AUXILIARY CELEBRATES 50 YEARS Submitted by Brandon Propst On June 10, 2018 the Staunton Augusta Rescue Squad Auxiliary celebrated its 50th Anniversary. In honor of the Auxiliary’s anniversary, we presented the Squad with $50,000. Patrick Scott, President of SARS was there to accept. With this presentation, the Auxiliary has given the Squad over ONE MILLION DOLLARS in donations over the past 50 years. We had approximately 75 guests attend our celebration, which included Charter members, Life Members, Past
Members, and Active Members. We also had some State AVARS members to help us celebrate. We had good food made by some of our auxiliary members, a wonderful cake, good conversations and good memories were shared by all. In February 1968, the framework for the auxiliary came to life. The Auxiliary has observed the evolution of technology and medical advances as well as the changing needs of our community. We have worked to provide assistance to those in need in our community and look for new opportunities to serve others. The Auxiliary has risen to the challenges faced in this modern fast-paced world with a progressive squad who quickly responds to the demands and opportunities posed to them. The focus from sewing and rolling cravats changed to major fundraising activities for renovations, purchasing stretchers and multipurpose vehicles, as well as providing funds towards matching grants for new ambulances and cardiac monitors. The gift of typewriters has progressed to the purchase of computers. However, our goals have remained the same‌to assist the Squad in any way possible to provide the best pre -hospital care to our community. Page
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DLSC Offers Stop the Bleed Training During EMS Week Submitted by Erin Gusler, Public Information Officer To conclude EMS Week, the Danville Life Saving Crew (DLSC) gave back to the community by teaching “Stop the Bleed” at Woodlawn Baptist Church in Danville, VA on Saturday, May 26. Now, more than two dozen community members are better prepared to stabilize a penetrating injury. “It’s important for everyone to be as prepared as possible,” Bryan Fox, DLSC’s assistant director and Stop the Bleed instructor, said. “This class helps the community know what they should do before EMS is able to take over.”
DLSC’s Assistant Director Bryan Fox and Crew member David Fox demonstrate how to properly apply a tourniquet.
Course participants were taught the basics: to alert 9-1-1 of the emergency, locate the bleeding injury and apply pressure to the wound to stop the bleed. After the educational portion, participants were able to practice hands on. Each person practiced using a tourniquet and securing the windlass. Then, participants were handed a foam pool noodle with a hole through its top to practice packing and wrapping a “gunshot wound” with gauze. Within an hour, participants were taught the essentials of penetrating trauma care and how to respond prior to EMS arrival. After the course, community members received a certificate of completion and became better prepared to handle an emergency. Danville Life Saving Crew offers this free course to any community member and organization that wants to learn more about stopping the bleed.
Bryan Fox discusses the “ABCs of Bleeding.” Page
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A participant looks through a foam pool noodle to see how well she packed a “gunshot wound.”
Participants practice loosely using tourniquets on a partner. 3rd
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2018 VAVRS EMS GERMAN EXCHANGE PROGRAM Submitted by Quinci Donahue and Rick Knick Have you ever wondered what it would be like to experience first-hand EMS practices in Germany while learning about the culture and people of that nation? Four members of the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads (VAVRS) recently received such a trip of a lifetime thanks to the VAVRS/Kassel Germany EMS Exchange program. The 2018 VAVRS team members were: Beth Guill - District 8 who is a member of Middlesex County Volunteer Rescue Squad and works as an Emergency Room Technician at Sentara Leigh; Quinci Donahue District 7, who is a paramedic Operations Captain at Christiansburg Rescue and works as an Emergency Room Nurse at Carilion New River Valley Medical Center; Rick Knick - District 1, who is a firefighter paramedic EMS Lieutenant with Dunlap Volunteer Fire & Rescue, life member of Chancellor Volunteer Fire & Rescue and employed as a Senior Special Agent with Virginia Department of Motor Vehicle law enforcement division; and Joey King - District 10, who is a life member of Westmoreland County Rescue Squad, employed as Vice President with LifeCare Medical Transports and Mayor for the Town of Montross, VA. We departed Virginia on June 10 and traveled to Frankfurt, Germany where we were met by our hosts from the Deutsches Rotes Kreuz (DRK) which is the German Red Cross. DRK is a 24/7 non-profit EMS agency providing care. Upon arrival in our final destination of Wolfhagen, Kassel, Germany we were lodged in a three-bedroom apartment attached to the Wolfhagen Rescue station and our 17 day adventure began in earnest. The City of Kassel is located in the German State of Hessen and has a population of approximately 200,000 residents. Our trip itinerary was meticulously planned by our hosts to ensure we enjoyed every aspect of the region, its culture, people and sights. Once we were unpacked and settled in, our activities began as we rode alongside our German colleagues in ambulances as they responded to calls. Each of us took turns working at the Wolfhagen, Vellmar, or Kassel City stations as well as on the Notarzt (Doctor) response car. In Germany, all ambulances are staffed with at least an EMT and Paramedic while the Notarzt, used for life-threatening EMS calls in the field, has an EMT or Paramedic driver and a Doctor, usually an Anesthesiologist.
Notarzt or Doctor’s Response Vehicle
Typical Ambulance Official
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We participated in tours of the DRK Training headquarters in Kassel City, Feuerwahe 1 (Fire station 1), Search and Rescue Dog training facility, learned about their dispatch center operations, and visited the volunteer station and training center where we had the opportunity to speak with German Paramedic students and discuss the differences between the American and German EMS systems.
German Red Cross Training Headquarters Another special visit was to the emergency room of Klinikum Kassel hospital, a level 1 trauma center and we were allowed to work a shift in the Cardiac surgery Intensive Care Unit and observe two heart Cath procedures. Staged out of this hospital is the impressive DRK Mobile Intensive Care transport ambulance, which we were given a detailed look inside. Klinikum Kassel Hospital The German Air Medical EMS branch is an integral part of the overall EMS response system. Rettungshubschtauber (Medical Air Care) Christoph 7 is based on top of the DRK hospital in Kassel City and we were given a very informative briefing of the operation. The air medical helicopters are operated by a pilot from the federal police and staffed with a paramedic and doctor. We were afforded an absolutely awesome tour of the Federal Police helicopters and learned all about the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) in Germany. German Red Cross Training Headquarters Perhaps one of the most unique EMS response vehicles we saw is the DRK’s train especially equipped for response strictly to mishaps in train tunnels. This train is outfitted with everything – firefighting equipment, extrication/stabilization/ recovery equipment, and 2 full surgical suites. “Tunnel” Train Page
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Surgical Unit on “Tunnel” Train
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Please do not be misled; not all of our tours were simply observing! At Ippinghausen Fire Department, which is operated by volunteers, we participated in a vehicle extrication and patient extraction exercise. We dressed in German fire uniforms and used their tools to cut a car apart. On ambulance runs we were allowed to insert IVs, provide patient assessment and care. Special sightseeing time was set up for us by our German hosts. Traveling to Fulda we visited the Deutsches Feuerwehr (German Fire) history museum. In Recklinghausen we visited their professional (paid) Fire & EMS department and were treated to birds-eye views of the area thanks to time in their ladder truck. Venturing to Quedlingburg, we learned the rich history of eastern Germany as we toured of the town with its beautiful views. At the German Border Museum Schifflersgrund we learned the history of the wall that divided East and West Germany for many years through reunification of the country in the early 1990’s. While at the Herkules Monument in the City of Kassel, perhaps best known for its cascading water feature, we were granted the very special honor of turning the water on which initiates the flow of water down the cascades. Other trips included the beautiful castle called Schloss Waldeck, Edersee Dam and we even rode the Silbersee Bob (track bobsled) down the mountain! On our last day we were taken to the Harz region with the highest mountain range in northern Germany where we traveled by train through the countryside. (Continued on page 33)
German Fire Museum
Visit to Recklinghausen Fire Department
Preparing to turn on the water at Herkules Monument Official
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Edersee Dam
Harz National Park
Typical German Town
Each evening afforded us the opportunity to sample wonderful German cuisine. There were no disappointments! At Zur Schmiede, a restaurant/cafĂŠ specializing in local wild game such as red stag, wild boar, deer and fish, Rick tried the red stag in mushroom gravy which he highly recommends. Our hosts and their extended families welcomed us to home-cooked meals and cook-outs featuring local delicacies and special brews. The friendships developed and comradery formed will last our lifetimes. There is simply no way to adequately thank our German hosts. From planning our time in Germany, to escorting us through each day, to the many gifts and honors showered upon us, our hosts left nothing to chance. Special thanks to Alexander Deutsch, Timo Hausotter, Bjorn Bertelmann, Rene Onimischewski, Michele Kuthe, Julian Rohrbeck, all the members of the DRK and agencies who made this trip so memorable.
As we returned home on June 28 and reflected upon our many experiences and memories, we realize that the best lesson of our travel is that while we are two different countries geographically separated by many miles with EMS programs that share some similarities and offer unique differences, all of us – American and German EMS providers alike - share the exact same devotion of service to our communities. Employing a Departing Germany, Frankfurt Airport well-known phrase, it IS a small world after all! For additional information about participating in the 2019 program when the Germans visit us or for information about the 2020 program when we will once again send representatives from the VAVRS to Germany, contact Kevin Dillard, Chair of the EMS Exchange Program at kdillard@lifecare94.com
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VALOR AWARD GOES TO LOUDOUN COUNTY VRS AUXILIARY Submitted by Marie Householder The Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce awarded a Unit Citation to the Loudoun County Volunteer Rescue Squad Auxiliary for their performance during a tragic event that occurred in September, 2017. It is described as follows: September 8, 2017 started out as an average end of summer day and ended with one of the most complex and hazardous rescues in county history. A converted food bus travelling east on Watson Road collided with a sedan heading north on Evergreen Mills Road. As the food truck lay on top of the other vehicle, efforts were made by various crews to extricate the family inside. The extrication was so difficult, in required special equipment to help support and stabilize the vehicles. The incident required multiple types of support services including 4 medical helicopter units, HAZMAT crews, and Rehab and Support teams for the exhausted first responders. Over 95 personnel contributed to saving four lives in one of the most horrendous auto accidents in Loudoun County history. Loudoun County Volunteer Rescue Squad Auxiliary members Sam Moten, Auxiliary President Marie Householder, Anna Peach, Auxiliary VP Kelley Snell, and Chaplain Denava Davis received Unit Citations for their performance and dedication.
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Honor Guard and "ASTRA" posted at the National EMS Memorial Service Tribute Photo provided by District 10 Chaplain Bob Morrison and taken by Leigh Chambers
NATIONAL EMS MEMORIAL SERVICE The 2018 National EMS Memorial Services was held at Gaylord National Hotel and Resort in Oxon Hill, MD on May 19. During the “Weekend of Honor” the EMS Memorial Bike Riders were honored with an official Welcome and Tribute. The purpose of the ride is to celebrate the lives of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. The riders were predominantly EMS professionals from across the U.S. Each rider wore dog tags bearing an honoree’s name during the ride. After all of the EMS Memorial Bike Riders arrived, there was a Presentation of Dog Tags. The rider met the family in front of the honoree’s biography to present the dog tags worn during the ride. This was a very powerful and inspirational part of the Honor Weekend. The National EMS Memorial Service was held in the Cherry Blossom Ball Room on the Ballroom Level of the Gaylord National Hotel and Resort. The Memorial Service was a formal ceremony with all participants in dress uniform, flight suits, or similar appropriate attire. The Service included bagpipe corps, drum corps, and honor guard presentations. A flag that had been flown over the U.S. Capital sent by the President of the United States on behalf of a grateful nation was presented to each honoree’s family along with a National EMS Memorial Service medallion. During the Memorial Service, a national moment of silence is called and EMS agencies across the U.S. participate in 30 seconds of radio silence in remembrance of the fallen. Additionally, a tribute video prepared specifically in honor and remembrance of the year’s honorees was shown. There were over 20 VAVRS members present to show support for the selfless service and sacrifice of the thirty-six 2018 honorees. Make plans to attend the 2019 service, you will be glad you did.
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Dear Rescue Ranger Dear Rescue Ranger, I have been a dispatcher for a long time. The other day I was in Walmart and some came up to me and said, “Bet you are an EMS/Fire Dispatcher!” I said, “How did you know?” He said, “Easy, I just heard you answer your cell phone “Dispatch!” EMS Strong Dear Strong, People can also tell you are a Dispatcher if:
You spend more money on fast food than utilities.
The only thing that gets your adrenaline going is the walk to and from your car.
You find humor in other people's misery.
Your idea of a good night involves someone getting shot, chased or dismembered.
You see nothing wrong with discussing abdominal evisceration over dinner in a public restaurant... and then you wonder why all the tables around you have cleared out.
You hear a fire engine or police car go screaming past your house and you wonder not what's happening, but who is going.
You have ever put the phone on hold so that you could laugh hysterically.
Dinner consists of a 2 liter bottle of soda and whatever
You read the newspaper accounts of a major incident that occurred on your shift, and you can point out all of the incorrect information... and then laugh about it.
You can carry on more than 4 conversations at the same time.
You have the bladder capacity of a tanker truck.
You can resume a conversation with co-workers 4 hours later, in midsentence, and everyone knows what you are talking about.
You have forgotten what it's like to actually eat a warm meal. You truly believe that stupidity should be painful.
you can scrounge out of the vending machine.
Dear Rescue Ranger, Anything interesting to share with your fellow EMS providers? We really respect your wisdom and EMS experience. Please share. Anonymous Dear Bubby, These are comments I have heard from patient and EMT students:
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lose weight, but you really don't care.
My inner child was adopted.
Penicillin has been called the "wonder drug" because any time the doctor wonders what you have, that's what you get.
The nurse said "Don't worry, the doctor has seen an operation exactly like yours on TV.
It's not habit forming. I know. I've been taking it for twelve years now.
I just ordered a life alert bracelet so if I ever get a life I'll be notified immediately!
I used to eat a lot of natural foods until I learned that most people die of natural causes…
Statistically…. 9 out of 10 injections are in vein.”
Conjunctivitis.com — that’s a site for sore eyes.”
There was a sign on the lawn at a drug rehab center that said ‘Keep off the Grass.'”
Today 4 out of 5 doctors recommend another doctor.
Modern day prescription-take one pill as often as you can afford it.
The worst time to have a heart attack is during a game of charades.”
Side effect of new wonder drugs--Bankruptcy.
Diet tranquilizer--you don't
I have some good news and some bad news. But don’t worry, I’ll give the good news to your widow.
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PO Box 279 2535 Turkey Creek Road Oilville, VA 23129 ISSN 0279-6023
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