2019 3rd Quarter VIRGINIA LIFELINE

Virginia

LIFELINE

3rd Quarter 2019 The Official Publication of the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads

Rescue Explorers / Youth/Rescue Camps Designated Infection Control Officer ALS/BLS Continuing Education Farm Machinery Extrication Infectious Disease Control Spanish for EMS Provider EVOC Trailer Operations

Methods of Instruction Defensive Tactics Tactical Medic Grant Writing Capnography Cave Rescue Stop—The– Bleed Drone Operations Search and Rescue PALS-Pediatric ALS Swift Water Rescue

Sexual Harassment Auxiliary Workshops School Bus Extrication Effective RS & FD Leader REVIVE-Narcan Training EMS Leadership Challenge EMS and Forensic Evidence Basic & Light Duty Rescue Farm Machinery Extrication Advanced Terrorism Response Considerations

Suicide Awareness: An Introduction For Crisis Responders Emergency Vehicle Operator’s Course Wilderness First Aid/Emergency Care Basic & Advanced Vehicle Extrication Vehicle Rescue Awareness & Operations Multi-Lead for Medics/12 Lead ECU Legal Responsibilities of Nonprofits Bylaws, Policies, and Robert’s Rules Volunteer R&R for Emergency Services Emergency Service Strategic Planning Managing Volunteer RS’s and FD’s Hazardous Materials First Responder Assisting Individuals in Crisis and Group Crisis Training Promoting Respect and Inclusion Mental Health First Aid Safety Emergency Service Organization Planning & Strategic Focus The Effective Fire Dept. Leader– Problems, Pitfalls and Penalties AMLS-Advanced Medical Life Support PHTLS-Prehospital Trauma Life Support GEMS-Geriatric Education for EMS ACLS-Advanced Cardiac Life Support TIMS-Traffic Incident Management SEOR-Ops—Special Events and Off-Road Operations Basic and Advanced Vertical Rescue/High Angle

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A MESS AGE FROM THE CHAPL AIN As chaplain of VAVRS, I am eager to work with all members, agencies, staff and leadership as we explore our spiritual value, commitments, and express our religious traditions I also understand that, as chaplain, I can be a companion in life's journey, through the painful places of illness, grief and abuse, as well as through joyful celebrations of achievement, accomplishment, and important relationships.

I would like to share with you eight (8) core Christian values. Based on God and the work of Jesus Christ. Christian values are based on spiritual things and are not material related. Even though these values are spiritual in nature, the evidence of these values come through deeds and actions.

Acceptance of these values inspires us to treat others with respect, kindness and concern.

Eight Core Christian Values 1 2 3 4 5

Grace Hope Faith Love Justice

Kindness from God, even when it is not deserved An optimistic state of mind, with an expectation of a positive outcome Confidence and trust based on God’s plan Strong and positive interpersonal affection For all, equal fair and unbiased actions

6 7 8

Joy Service Peace

Happiness, essential social value Serving, caring and putting others first Calm, positive well being

Hope Hope - trusting in the loving purposes of God: trusting that the foundations of the world are good because they spring from God. It means believing that, ultimately, we are destined to share in that goodness because of what Jesus has done. He had to pass through the ‘valley of the shadow of death’ but the victory has been won and our share in that victory is assured.

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2018-2019 VAVRS Officers and Committee Chairs President - Scott Davis Vice President - Connie Moore Secretary - Wesley Melson Treasurer - Wayne Rapp Training Officer - Curtis Crawford Chaplain - Joey King 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 - John Hilliard District 5 Vice President - Mike Smoot District 6 Vice President - Lisa Hale District 7 Vice President - Toby Akers District 8 Vice President - Thomas Tomlin District 9 Vice President - Tony Cox District 10 Vice President - Byron Andrews Executive Director - Matt Henke Office Assistant - Cindy Bailey Bookkeeper - Cynthia Babb Lobbyist - Ed Rhodes

Convention - Tarry Pribble Bylaws - Bruce Stratton I T Coordinator - Steve Ayers New Course / Future Vision - Kenny Frenier Rescue College - John Craig Finance - Wayne Rapp Camporee Coordinator - Scott Masincup Scholarship - Mickey Grodski Human Resources - Connie Moore Legislative - Bubby Bish Public Relations - Wesley Melson Life Member - Mike Moore Publication - Gary Dalton Hall of Fame - Kevin Dillard EMS Advisory Board - Valeta Daniels EMS Advisory Board - Dreama Chandler EMS Exchange - Kevin Dillard Nominating - Kevin Dillard National EMS Memorial - Kevin Dillard

2018-2019 VAJVRS Officers President - Brandon Propst Vice President - Sheriz Chisley-Strickler Secretary/Treasurer - Adam Lane Historian - Olivia Bostic Chaplain - Bryton Vandyke Advisor Chair - Alfred Smith

2018-2019 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 - Marcella Caudill Western Vice President - Laura Booze

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Membership - Fay Browning Finance - Elsie Butler Resolutions - Carolyn Brand Emergency Care - Nellie Sue Ritchie Nominating - Fern Puckett Life Member - Dolores Hudson Convention Chair - Maxine Kerns Convention Co-Chair - Ruth Swicegood Roll Call Chair - Christie Jefferies Roll Call Co-Chair - Valerie Becker Fundraising Chair - Tracey Frame Fundraising Co-Chair - Stacey Frame

“Friendship and Hospitality to the Rescue�

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Deadline for the Upcoming Issues of the VIRGINIA LIFELINE Deadline for future issues are as follows: December 15 for the 1st Quarter Issue March 15 for the 2nd Quarter Issue June 15 for the 3rd Quarter Issue July 15 for the Convention Issue September 15 for the 4th Quarter Issue

Articles may be submitted by any member of the VAVRS, AVAVRS and VAJVRS. Feature articles are encouraged.

Photos and/or graphics are acceptable and can be returned if requested.

Contact the VAVRS Editor (editor@vavrs.com) if you need assistance submitting to the publication.

Advertising Rates: Member Squads…,…......no charge Full Page…………………..$ 275.00 Half Page………………..…$150.00 Quarter Page……………....$100.00 Business Card……………..$ 50.00

From the Editor, Time is precious, make sure you spend it with the right people. You can greet, fellowship and compete with the right people at the First Responder Virginia Convention being held next month. Hope to see you all there.

To the right is a regional map of the Auxiliary to the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads (AVAVRS). If you know of a support group or auxiliary to a first responder agency please refer them to the VAVRS website for information on how they can join the AVAVRS. This great organization has been fundraising, competing, learning and growing together since September, 1951.

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PARLIAMENTARY LAW: Did you know?

Submitted by J. C. Phillips, VAVRS Parliamentarian Did you know that a Parliamentarian has no authority when making a ruling? Only the President and/or the Membership have the authority to accept or not to accept a ruling.

The following true situation happens more often than you may imagine. A squad’s Executive Board took disciplinary action against one of its members. The member decided to appeal the decision of the Executive Board to the General Membership as covered in the squad’s bylaws.

After all of the information was presented to the Membership, a motion was made to dismiss the disciplinary action imposed on the member. The motion failed by one vote of a 2/3 vote as required to override the decision of the Executive Board. The bylaws state that it takes a 2/3 vote to override the decision of the Executive Board when dealing with disciplinary action.

The President stated, since the vote was so close, he would call for another vote. The Parliamentarian advised the President that another vote was out of order since the result of the vote had already been decided and the decision of the Executive Board still stands. The President stated that the members will vote again since the vote was so close. He instructed a member to go to the dispatching area and tell anyone there to come to the meeting and vote on the motion that he says is still on the floor. The vote was taken again and the motion passed this time by two votes over the 2/3 vote required. The disciplinary action taken by the Executive Board was dismissed.

The two sad things about this whole situation were, the President took it upon himself not to follow the squads bylaws or proper parliamentary procedure and also, not one member said anything about what happened other than the Parliamentarian.

In conclusion, the Parliamentarian did his job, even if the President and the Membership did not do theirs.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2019 VAVRS Convention August 8-10, 2019 Hampton, VA

Virginia EMS Symposium November 5-9, 2019 Norfolk, VA 2020 VAVRS Rescue College June 12-21, 2020 VA Tech, Blacksburg, VA

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AVAVRS President by Ailease Short Well, this year is really moving along fast. So glad to be having some nice warm weather these days after a very cold winter.

The AVAVRS had their Spring Officers and Delegates meeting in Roanoke on March 30, 2019. This was first time we had the delegates also in attendance. We had about 50 people in attendance.

The AVAVRS members had a great time at the Hospitality Night on Friday night sponsored by District 6.

There was great food and fellowship. A great time with all our friends.

The Auxiliary ladies dressed in their 50’s attire for our Saturday morning meeting. Diane Haga of Bristol won the prize for the best costume. Thanks to all who participated. We also had a 1950’s Auxiliary Trivia quiz which was won by Kathy Plummer of Waynesboro with a perfect score. Way to go Kathy. Joan Smoot of Campbell County won the Easter basket door prize. We had a great time as we rock and rolled around the clock. Our meeting was very long but we got a lot accomplished.

Maxine Kerns, Fay Browning, and myself traveled to Hampton on April 6, 2019 to finalize some plans for convention at the Hampton Roads Convention Center. I believe everyone will be pleased with what we have planned for August in Hampton. It is a beautiful setting and several things to do around the Hampton area.

I attended the Southeastern District meeting in March at my own Auxiliary, Bensley. We had a great meeting and the food and decorations were all about “pineapples”. Thanks to Bensley for carrying out my theme“Friendship and Hospitality To The Rescue”.

I have continued to participate in the tele-conference VAVRS Executive board meetings each month. I met with Matt Henke, the Executive Director of VAVRS in April to discuss involvement of the AVAVRS in the future. We discussed avenues on how to gain Auxiliaries across the state.

On April 27th I attended the VAVRS Camporee at Buena Vista. Everyone seemed to have a good time. We had about 15 auxiliary members in attendance. Thanks for the fellowship and food. The cake cooked in the Dutch oven with coals on top was quite a hit and delicious.

Thanks to all of you for all that you do in your communities and districts as well as in the state association.

We are honored to have such a great group of Volunteers. Keep up the good work.

See you soon!

AVAVRS Convention Chair 2017- 2019 Submitted by Maxine Kerns

Serving the AVAVRS as Convention Chair the past 2 years has been a rewarding and challenging opportunity! I am thankful AVAVRS President Ailease Short led me to this job! It was exciting working behind the scene and making sure details were in place and spreading a little bit of sunshine, excitement and celebration!

Ailease did an outstanding job via her outstanding service, dedication, encouragement & cheerleading abilities ! She kept us informed and demonstrated dignity and fairness. Traveling with Ailease and her husband Maddux made for a great two years! Hooray for leaving footprints for others to follow and promoting friendship and hospitality! We are truly blessed !

I enjoyed traveling with AVAVRS Vice President Fay Browning, working with AVAVRS Convention Co-Chair Ruth Swicegood, and all the great folks in the AVAVRS! The entire AVAVRS went above and beyond assisting and supporting the AVAVRS, VAVRS & VAJVRS families.

Thanks to everyone for your part in our journey. You are appreciated !!!!!!!

I may travel this way but once, but treasure the JOY that filled the days!

Best wishes, keep in touch and ENJOY!!!!!

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Summer Greetings Submitted by Fay Browning, AVAVRS Vice President I hope this finds everyone well and over the pollen season and ready for summer and the 2019 First Responder Virginia 1st Annual Conference/Expo. I am excited and hope all of our auxiliaries are enthusiastic about this event.

I thought our Spring Officers’ Meeting with the Delegates was a great success and we got a lot accomplished.

I think this will be an annual event in the future and hope the delegates appreciate being included.

I am really excited to welcome our newest member of the AVAVRS, Castlewood Fire & Rescue Auxiliary.

The AVAVRS needs some new blood in the association and is always looking for new members. We look forward to working with Castlewood and listening to what they have to say about how we can better serve the squads and emergency care agencies. If you know of a new auxiliary that is being formed and needs some assistance, or an auxiliary that would like to join our association, please contact me.

I have enjoyed being a part of the Convention planning meetings with the VSFA and VAVRS. Everyone has worked very hard to make this first a success and hopefully many more!

I am looking forward to this August Conference in Hampton with the VSFA. It will be in a new place and a new experience joining the VSFA. There are a lot of fun activities planned and a lot of work to be done in our meetings. Please remember all of the Convention deadlines and get your information to the appropriate person on time. I hope everyone who attends will have a great time and new relationships made. I think our attendees at the Convention will be impressed with the Opening Ceremony on Wednesday afternoon at 5:00 p.m. The headquarters hotel, Embassy Suites, is a nice facility and very convenient to the Hampton Roads Convention Center. I am looking forward to seeing everybody there.

This is the year we will be changing officers at Convention. I really want to thank our President Ailease Short for her hard work for the past two years. She made a lot of “Footprints to Follow” in her first year, and outdid herself with “Friendship and Hospitality to the Rescue” in her second year! She will be a hard act to follow, but I will do my best to make the AVAVRS the best it can be if I am elected President. I truly believe “A small group can accomplish many things, but an organized group achieves great things!” I want to represent all of the auxiliaries as best I can and help our association achieve great things.

Please have a great summer and I hope to see everyone in August at the First Responder Virginia 1st Annual Conference/Expo in Hampton!

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CBVRS in the Classroom Submitted by Sara Hunt PR Members of Colonial Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad recently visited with preschoolers at Colonial Beach Elementary School.

Lt. Alexandra “Alex" Smith, right, read “Please Don’t Dance in My Ambulance,” an engaging children’s book that introduces young readers to the world of ambulance work and EMS services.

Afterward, Lt. Pat FitzGerald conducted a tour of the squad’s ambulance and the students enjoyed seeing all of the equipment in the vehicle. “We do this every year and it’s one of our favorite activities in the community,” said FitzGerald. “You never know, some of these children might join our team of volunteers in the future.”

Stepping Up to Help Others Submitted by Sara Hunt PR Members of the Colonial Beach Junior Volunteer Rescue Squad collected 39 pairs of shoes through the Soles4Souls nonprofit organization that distributes shoes and clothing around the world.

This contribution by the Colonial Beach Juniors will be shipped to Haiti and to overseas countries that are recovering from recent bombings.

From left to right are: Joseph Shelton, Tori Brown, Kaitlyn Wenninger, Kirsten Straughan, Logan Wenninger, Amber Straughan and Shiann Shelton.

Not pictured: Jordyn Danchak, Dante Dirolf, Brandon Oliver, George Oliver III and Kendall Wenninger.

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District 3’s Lakeside Volunteer Rescue Squad Recognized as Outstanding EMS Agency by Regional EMS Council Submitted by Ryan Scarbrough On May 19th, 2019 at Kings Dominion, in Doswell, VA, the Lakeside Volunteer Rescue Squad (LVRS) was honored to receive the Old Dominion EMS Alliance Regional EMS Award for 2019 Outstanding Agency of the Year. The award was presented to them by special guest and presenter, Chip Decker, CEO of Richmond Ambulance Authority. This award truly means a lot to the members of LVRS because there are over 100 EMS agencies in the region that could have won.

The members of the Lakeside Volunteer Rescue Squad are a diverse group representing all walks of life.

When it comes time to answer the call for help, their members are ready and able to do all they can to provide the best professional emergency medical care to the sick and injured possible. They are one of the last remaining agencies in the ODEMSA Region and the Commonwealth that does not charge for its services and doesn’t employ paid staff.

Not only does LVRS provide for their community, but they also provide for the members of their agency.

Members do not receive special funds for meals when on duty nor stipends when away for classes or meetings, but they do receive the support of their fellow members and the best equipment, progressive protocols, ongoing training, and some of the best technology that there is. They are always looking for the best evidence-based practices and new technology to ensure that quality care is available. Some of their latest equipment includes use of iGel Supraglottic Airways, Intubrite Video Laryngoscopy, LUCAS II Chest Compression System, ZOLL X Series, and the Stryker Power Load System that is on every truck in the fleet.

Lakeside Volunteer Rescue Squad also takes the time to recognize their members in many ways. For EMS Week, they plan events for their members nearly every day of the entire week. This year, members were encouraged to attend the awards ceremony, which was followed by a picnic and a day of thrills at Kings Dominion an amusement park. Members of Lakeside have been receiving national recognition for their

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volunteerism through the Presidential Volunteer Service Awards program for going on three years. Members receive a bronze, silver or gold medallion, certificate, and a signed letter from the sitting President of the United States for hours of service they have provided. These awards take into consideration the members age and the time they have logged over the past year.

There is also no shortage of events that they cover. Whether its the NASCAR races, the Richmond K-9 5k, the Monument 10k, and other events in the County of Henrico or the City of Richmond; there are not many weekends from early spring to late fall that go unbooked with some activity that an organization, Richmond Ambulance Authority, or the County of Henrico haven’t requested event coverage for. Their ability to cover standbys are a testament to this mission and their ongoing goal of helping others in their community. They not only provide units for standbys but also staff additional units to help the citizens of Henrico County. They do not allow standbys to jeopardize the ongoing need for a staffed ambulance by always ensuring that they have a station crew that is in service at their station when another crew is on a special event standby. In addition to the coverage of special events, they also participate in the Anthem Moonlight Ride, National Night Out, Lakeside Day, and Holly Jolly on Lakeside Avenue which are community events that draw visitors to the Lakeside area from around the region for food, shopping, crime prevention tips, and holiday festivities. They also regularly cover multiple Fourth of July events across the County.

Lakeside believes that fiscal transparency with the community helps to improve it’s fundraising efforts. That is why since 2017 LVRS has regularly updated it’s information with GuideStar and has received the bronze star rating every year. This designation gives members of their community and local businesses valuable knowledge and insight to help them make informed decisions about where to donate.

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Not only do the members of Lakeside provide EMS response capabilities, but they also give back to charities and families in the area. For several years, they have designed a breast cancer awareness shirt that they make available for purchase to their members and those in the community to wear for the month of October. Their members are permitted to wear the shirts as their duty uniform that month for awareness purposes. All proceeds from the sale of the shirt go to the VCU Massey Cancer Center. In 2018, Lakeside Rescue raised $654 for this worthy cause. Likewise, during the December holiday season, they pick a local charity to support. In years past, they have adopted a family both through personal connections and through the Henrico Christmas Mother, collected food bank donations, and donated to Toys-for-Tots. In 2018, they received donations from their members for Safe Harbor, which is a local domestic violence shelter servicing women and children. In 2018, their contribution consisted of a large box full of food, gift cards, daily use items, and toiletries.

While they may not have a paid administrative staff, like a city or county governmental agency, they feel that the dedication of their administration (who are all riding members) and all of their members provide a significant resource to the citizens of the County not only through their EMS response but also through their community outreach. Their Officers work full-time jobs, mostly not in EMS, while maintaining almost a second full-time job performing their duties as riding members and in their leadership roles. As a non-fee for service agency, everything they can accomplish is within the confines of a $100,000 annual budget, funded by donations from their community. They feel that they are fiscally responsible with the funds that they receive and provide the best pre-hospital emergency care proudly as a 100% volunteer agency.

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VAVRS Nominating Committee Submitted by Kevin Dillard, Chair

Elections for officers for 2019 will be held during the annual First Responder Virginia Convention at the Hampton Roads Convention Center on August 9th during the Board of Governor's meeting. The officers will be installed on Saturday August 10th and take office on January 1, 2020.

The following candidates will be seeking the positions listed below. We are providing you also with a picture and a brief bio on each candidate.

President - Connie Moore Vice President - Wesley Melson & Cecil Leach Secretary - Curtis Crawford Treasurer - Ryan Scarbrough Training Officer - Toby Akers & Wayne Myers Chaplain - Joey King

Nominee Bios from the Candidates: Nominee Connie Moore for VAVRS President It has been an Honor and Privilege for me to be considered for the opportunity to serve Our Association as President.

My goal over the past 15-20 years in serving in other Officer positions was to prepare myself for the opportunity that is presenting itself now. I became an EMT in 1993, and enhanced my EMS training over the years from a Shock Trauma Tech, to Cardiac Tech to EMT Intermediate in 2004 with the revisions at the Office of EMS. While serving as District 5 VP, VAVRS Editor, Historian, Treasurer, Secretary and currently Vice President, it has given me the understanding of not only those positions, but how to grow and go forward with the knowledge of how our Association really works.

Being President includes everyone that’s members of the VAVRS!! It’s the chance to be the Voice of many, and I will always be a volunteer who represents the great grass-roots from where this Association was founded.

I currently Volunteer as an Associate Member of Boydton Lifestation, and an active member with Victoria Fire & Rescue, who merged with my home Squad, Kenbridge Emergency Squad, in 2017. I’m employed full-time with Lifestar Ambulance in Emporia as an ALS Provider/ EMT-Intermediate. As a Life Member of District 5, I attend as many of their meetings and events as I can, unless needed in another capacity as a VAVRS Advisor.

Fellowship is key with our members, and I look forward to Every Opportunity to be with our members in any venue or event. I hope as President to promote membership growth, provide training opportunities NEEDED by our members, and financial strength for our visions that are ahead of us. Together we will rise, put our best foot forward, and make a difference in the lives of EMS providers across the Commonwealth! The decision on who will serve the members of this Association is up to YOU as members – thank you for the opportunity to being a Choice!

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Nominee Wesley Melson for Vice President

Nominee Cecil Leach for Vice President

Fellow VAVRS Members,

I am seeking the Office of Vice President for 20192020 with VAVRS.

I am honored and excited to announce my candidacy for the office of VAVRS Vice President.

Over the last twenty plus years I have had the opportunity to serve in various capacities in EMS beginning as a junior in Colonial Beach. I later became a career firefighter/ paramedic with Caroline County Fire and Rescue where I was promoted to Lieutenant after two years and assigned to the Ladysmith District on Engine and Squad 2. My instructional background includes National Registered Paramedic, Fire Fighter II, Fire Officer II, Fire Instructor II, various Technical Rescue, Hazardous Material and Leadership certifications including National Fire Academy Leadership I, II, and III training just to name a few. Additionally, I am also a graduate of the University of Virginia's Leadership Institute, Leadership Fredericksburg class of 2017, and the VAVRS Leadership Challenge.

Currently I remain an active volunteer with the Colonial Beach Rescue Squad and Chief Operations Officer with LifeCare Medical Transports. I also enjoy serving as a Virginia Department of Fire Programs Instructor and cultural diversity instructor trained through the Southwest Law Enforcement Institute where I have taught professionally at the Rappahannock Criminal Justice Academy and the FBI Academy at Quantico, VA. With the VAVRS I have served as the VAJVRS District 3 Vice President, District 10 Alternate Vice President, District 10 Vice President, VAVRS Secretary, and served as the Social Media Manager for the last 5 years. I am proud of the mission of the VAVRS and I am committed to not only helping encourage volunteerism across the Commonwealth, but also enhancing and improving the delivery of EMS throughout Virginia.

I have served as Training Officer and Secretary as well as New Course development with VAVRS. Committees that I have served on are Rescue College, Training, New Course development, Finance and the HR Committee. I am an Instructor Trainer in Vehicle, School Bus and Advance Vehicle Extrication as well as an Instructor in Farm Extrication and EVOC. I helped develop the School Bus Extrication and Advanced Vehicle Extrication classes. I have assisted with updating the Vehicle and Farm Extrication classes.

I am a VAVRS life member also life member with Churchville Vol. Fire & Rescue Squad with 32 years.

Offices held were President, First aid captain, training officer, 2yrs Board of directors as well as Ethics committee advisor. I am an honorary member with Staunton Augusta rescue squad, Buena Vista rescue squad, Cool Branch rescue squad and a charter member of Riverheads fire dept.

I was employed at Western State Hospital as the Director of Transportation from 1989 until my retirement in 2018. My job was to supervise a large group of staff, prepare, setting up and maintaining work and training schedules. I worked with a yearly budget of 10 million dollars for the transportation department of the hospital, monitored and maintained monthly expenditures as I believe with my experience as Director of Transportation at Western State Hospital as well as my involvement with VAVRS it would serve as a helpful tool for me as the Vice President of VAVRS. Thank you, Cecil C. Leach VAVRS Life Member

I would very much appreciate your support as I seek the office of Vice President.

Sincerely, Wesley Melson

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Nominee Curtis Crawford for Secretary My name is Curtis Crawford and I have been serving for the past two years as the State Training Officer. It has been a pleasure to help in moving this organization forward and serving the state. Prior to that I held multiple offices in District Seven including the Vice President for two years. I am proud of the VAVRS and very thankful for all that I have obtained in the past years.

I volunteer at Tannersville Rescue Squad and Tannersville Fire Department where I am the training officer. I am the Emergency Services Director for Wythe County. I am an instructor in EVOC, Extrication, and HazMat for the VAVRS as well as classes for the VDFP, AHA, and TIMS. Being an instructor has always been my passion. I believe that an instructor can influence people just as much if not more than any leader. If you learn a task the correct way during class, a leader has less to teach and more room to grow responders. Outside of volunteering, I have a beautiful support system. My wife Mary is the most supportive and caring person and I am thankful for all she does for me. I could not be more thankful.

Looking forward, the ability to be the Secretary is one not to take lightly. We are an organization based on communication from top to bottom. Without communication, we as the VAVRS cannot grow. We will be stagnate or worse, dwindle. As Secretary, I will work to make the accomplishments of the Executive Committee available and more transparent. I will work through all forms of media to get those accomplishments out to more members and nonmembers for recruitment. I see this as a challenge I am excited to take on. I hope to have your support and thank you for the ability to serve this great organization.

Curtis Crawford

Nominee J. Ryan Scarbrough for Treasurer I have been a member of the Lakeside Volunteer Rescue Squad in Henrico, VA, since 2013. Since joining I have held the offices of Secretary, Chairman of the Board, and currently, sit as the President of the agency. I have also chaired the Policies and Procedures Committee and the Presidential Volunteer Service Awards Committee both of which were started by myself to fill a need that I saw.

I have also been the BOG Alternate for my agency voting at every Board of Governors Meeting since 2015. In November of 2016, I was appointed to the position of District 3 Secretary. Since my appointment, I have updated our communications to utilize a platform that allows district members to signup or remove themselves from correspondence. I have also established a basic website for the dissemination of all information regarding the district and have attended every meeting. In 2019, I was appointed to the position of VAVRS’s Sargent in Arms. I have also been assisting the VAVRS State Office with the building, implementation, and maintenance of the online registration system for 2018 Convention, 2019 Rescue College and this years First Responders Virginia Convention.

At this time, I am employed by the Old Dominion EMS Alliance as the Regional Projects Coordinator where one of the functions of my position is to administer regional training funds. For this, I ensure that all necessary paperwork is on file so that Education Coordinators from across the region receive a disbursement of state funds that they have applied for to teach Continuing Education and Auxiliary (Merit Badge) classes. In addition, I also oversee and plan the Regional EMS Awards which have nearly doubled in nominations and attendance since taking on the project. I also handle many other aspects of day to day operations which include but are not limited to the regional website, office IT, training, and regularly attend regional and state OEMS meetings.

As I have become more involved with the VAVRS I have wanted to become a part of the leadership so that I may help to grow, direct, and support our organization and to do what I can for agencies across the Commonwealth of Virginia. It is my goal that by becoming the VAVRS’s Treasurer that I can help us work towards a balanced budget and to continue our growth through membership numbers while being fiscally responsible. It is also my goal to continue our movement in the direction of increased communication in addition to the possibility of streamlining our financial processes to boost productivity and limit frivolous spending.

I believe that my over three years experience as the Accounts Payable Clerk for the Richmond International Airport, seven years of supervisory and managerial experience with Kings Dominion in both EMS and Admissions, two years as the Accounts Payable and Receivable Clerk with Air Excellence, Inc., and my A.A.S Information Technology and Securities Management degree, make me an excellent candidate for the office of Treasurer.

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Nominee Toby Akers for Training Officer

Nominee Wayne Myers for Training Officer

I have been a member of Christiansburg Rescue since 2014. I started volunteering as a Junior member and served as Junior Captain. During the past 5 years I have served many roles at Christiansburg Rescue, including CPR Coordinator, Life Member Liaison, ACCE Coordinator and most recently was elected Membership Lieutenant.

Lifetime resident of Blacksburg.

Joined Blacksburg Fire Department and Rescue Squad at the age if 16 as a Jr. Member. Held a officer position Blacksburg Rescue for over 20 years having reached Chief the last 7 years of service. Currently running with Blacksburg Fire Department as 1st Lieutenant. Life Membership in both departments.

Outside of Christiansburg Rescue, I have served as one of the youngest VAVRS District Seven Vice President and VAJVRS Secretary/Treasurer. I also serve on the Rescue College and Future Vision Committee. I currently work for Virginia Tech Security Center and NRV 911 Center, am pursuing an Advanced EMT certification, and enrolled as a full-time student seeking a degree in Public Relations.

My years of service to my community and the VARVS are not enough for my energetic and outgoing personality and I want to better serve the VARVS as Training Officer.

Thanks, Toby

Has been the Dist. 7 VP, Training Officer Course Coordinator, Chair of Rescue College, and Instructor Trainer for VAVRS. A VAVRS Life Member and Hall of Fame Member. DFP Fire Instructor 2, Fire Fighter 1 and 2 Train the Trainer. Have been on committees for the development of programs for both VAVRS and DFP. I think with my back ground in training I can bring that experience to the Training Officer position. We need to work as a team and review and update the programs and create some new classes. I would work with other coordinators to get this review and updates done. I feel training is one of the most important thing that VAVRS has going for it and feel that it needs to keep moving forward.

I look forward too serving the Association anyway I can.

Wayne Myers

Nominee Joey King for Chaplain I am writing today to express my continued interest in serving as the Chaplain and to share personal information about my EMS journey.

My EMS association began in 1975 in rural Westmoreland County at the Westmoreland County Volunteer Rescue Squad at age 14. Over the years I’ve served in several leadership roles and remain a Life Member of the organization.

Additionally, I am an associate member of the Montross Volunteer Rescue Squad.

Today, I have the distinct privilege to be associated with LifeCare Medical Transport Services where I serve as Vice President / Deputy Chief. In this role, I work directly with the President to address both strategic and critical areas of need for the organization.

My EMS journey over the years, has included working directly with people, leadership development, motivation, problem solving/prevention.

Serving as Chaplain is a unique honor that I take very serious. I have a desire to make a difference and just not fill an officer slot. I am ensuring the we have an open, honest and healthy atmosphere that encompasses individual respect and appreciation. I am enjoying working with everyone and there is no doubt, it is making a difference in my life.

In closing, it is an honor to serve as chaplain and I thank you. Please feel free to contact be a 540.752.6047 should you have questions and/or comments.

With Kind Regards, Joey King Official

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From the Legislative Attic Submitted by Ed Rhodes In previous articles and reports to the Board of Governors, the “Move Over” Law will take effect on July 1 2019. This is a new version of the one that was drafted and introduced back in about 2002 by Delegate Melanie Rapp Beale. The new version is divided into two parts – paragraph A will only be for emergency vehicles i.e. law enforcement, fire and EMS vehicles, with red, blue and certain amber lights. Paragraph B will be basically for vehicles with amber lights (tow trucks, garbage trucks, safety vehicles) and other colors such as purple (funerals), or green (command posts). Fines for paragraph A will be basically reckless driving and the second one will be a $250.00 fine for the first offense and second is a class one misdemeanor.

At the June District III meeting held at Forest View Rescue Squad, memorial resolutions were presented to the families of Buddy Phillips and Lin Matthews. Speaker of the House of Delegates Kirk Cox, chief patron, with Delegate Roxanne Robinson, a co-patron, and Senator Amanda Chase presented resolutions to Judy Matthews and daughters in memory of Lin.

Speaker of the House of Delegates Kirk Cox, Delegate Roxanne Robinson and Senator Amanda Chase presenting the House and Senate Joint Memorial Resolutions in honor of Lin Matthews to Lin’s wife Judy and his two daughters at the District 3 meeting in June 2019. The presentation took place at Forest View Rescue Squad.

In addition to the families and legislators, VAVRS Executive Director Matt Henke, and staff members Lisa Hale and Cyndi Bailey were present along with Vice President Connie Moore, Training Officer Curtis Crawford, Past President and Life Members Kevin Dillard and J.C. Phillips.

Delegate Betsy Carr presented the House of Delegates resolution for Buddy Phillips was presented to his family. The Senate Resolution was presented to Buddy’s family by Senator Glen Sturtevant at his wife’s home.

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Delegate Betsy Carr and Speaker of the House of Delegates Kirk Cox presenting the House Joint Resolution in memory of Buddy Phillips to Dot Phillips and members of Buddy’s family

(Continued from page 20)

Senator Glen Sturtevant presented the Senate Joint Resolution in memory of Buddy and presented a framed resolution to Dot and Buddy’s family. He also spoke about the individuals those resolutions written for, like Buddy, and the process each resolution goes through. Speaker Cox also reminded the audience at Forest View that this type of resolution is not just arbitrarily done, but are presented for individuals that have proven leadership and community involvement who are deserving of this recognition from the Virginia General Assembly.

Senator Glen Sturtevant presenting the Senate Joint Resolution in memory of Buddy Phillips to his wife Dot and members of Buddy’s family

During the 2018 session of the General Assembly, legislation was passed and took effect on July 1, 2018 regarding the “RS” tags. Each agency is now required to maintain a list of members that have an RS tag.

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(Continued from page 21)

I asked DMV for an explanation so I would get it correct in what I am providing you. Here it is, please read it in order to correctly follow the instructions and the Code of Virginia.

SB 947 required fire departments to maintain a copy of approved applications submitted by professional fire fighters, volunteer fire fighters or department auxiliary members to DMV to obtain special license plates. In addition, the bill required fire departments as well as volunteer emergency medical services agencies and agency auxiliaries to notify the DMV within 30 days when members from such agencies or agency auxiliaries separate from the agencies and are no longer entitled to the special license plates. As a result of this legislation, DMV began accepting as notice of separation either 1) a letter stating such on the entity's official letterhead, or 2) a Firefighter, Professional Firefighter, Rescue Squad License Plates Vehicle Registration Application 124 (VSA 124) with Section 7: Firefighter/ Rescue Squad Plate Certification; Notice to DMV upon Separation completed. Unless a new approval for the special plates is received from an authorized entity, the special plates issued to that customer are cancelled and standard plates are issued.

The month of June each year gets hectic with reports to be filed with the Ethics Council for each group that I represent and to chase down leaders to sign a form also. It has been completed and I am just waiting for the approval notices, which usually come back fairly quickly.

My favorite helpers (grandchildren), at the work table, staying busy, waiting for their mother to pick them up after school, which with no homework and a week left of school was okay to be working hard on their I-pads

This concludes my article for this quarter and I hope that each of you have a wonderful summer with family and friends. I want to thank many of you for your concern while my wife was hospitalized the first part of June. She is doing fine and progressing nicely. Don’t forget the EMS Advisory Board and committee meetings on August 1st and 2nd, the convention the following week and other activities during August and September.

Any questions or comments please feel free to contact me by e-mail to ask.

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Resolution of Honor to the John Temple Fray family at the Madison County Volunteer Rescue Squad Installation of Officers Banquet The family of John T. Fray was given the Resolution of Honor by Senator Emmett Hanger during the squad’s installation banquet.

John was a member of the Madison County Volunteer Rescue Squad for thirty-five years, a Life Member of the Squad, Life Member of Virginia Volunteer Association of Rescue Squads and a member of the Virginia Life Saving and Rescue Hall of Fame.

John joined the Madison Volunteer Fire Department in November 1955 and has given immeasurably to the MCVFC and beyond for over 62 years. He has held the title of Treasurer, Marshall, Vice-President, President, and Associate Member over the years. He was a leader in the effort to obtain the property, raise funds, design the building, and other aspects of our current firehouse. Most importantly he was a mentor to many dozens of members who have followed.

Throughout the course of his career, John has mentored countless youths in the community, many of whom have gone on to pursue a careen in public safety and he is held in the highest regard by his peers for his leadership a expertise.

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Resolution of Honor to the Marjorie Hodges Lamar family at a Madison County Vol. Rescue Squad Business Meeting June 10, 2019

At the Madison County Volunteer Rescue Squad Monthly Business Meeting, the family of Marjorie Hodges Lamar was given the Resolution of Honor by Senator Emmett Hanger for her contributions to Madison County. She was former co-owner of the Madison Drug Company pharmacy and a dedicated public safety professional in Madison County, was a founding and charter member of the Madison County Rescue Squad and served the community from 1963 until the time of her passing. As a member of the Madison County Rescue Squad, Marjorie Lamar was credited with answering 15,000 calls for assistance, was one of the original 16 individuals statewide to achieve shock trauma status in 1976, and became a cardiac technician in 1982; and

Marjorie Lamar will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by her husband of 67 years, James; three children, nine grandchildren, and two greatgrandchildren, and their families; and numerous other family members and friends.

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Grooming Tomorrow’s Leaders Today Submitted by Kevin Dillard MBA

EMS continues to change as we move into the future. To meet these changes and challenges we must be grooming tomorrow’s leaders today. At VAVRS District 10 we recently elected our incoming District Vice President, Diana Wills. She has been in EMS many years serving as both a volunteer and paid EMS provider. She is a paramedic and recently participated in the EMS Leadership program at the VAVRS Rescue College.

Recently elected VAVRS District 10 Assistant Vice President Xavier Bates and recently Elected as the Assistant District 10 Vice President is elected VAVRS District 10 Vice President Xavier Bates. He too has been active as both a volunteer Diana Wills after the recent elections at the and paid EMS provider. Xavier also recently participated Moo-Thru in Fauquier County. in the EMS Leadership program at Rescue College.

We are always planning for the future with the leadership of our district. Giving the Assistant District Vice President the opportunity to train under the current District Vice President has been something we have promoted for several years. This has proven to be very successful for our district.

We also try to promote opportunities for our future leaders to network, bond and train to be the leaders of tomorrow—and have FUN along the journey. The EMS Leadership program that the VAVRS sponsors is a premier leadership opportunity for people to hone their leadership skills, learn new ideas and to meet other rising leadership stars from across Virginia. We should encourage all individuals that have an interest in being a leader of their agency or within the VAVRS to take this worthwhile educational program. We are fortunate to have this program offered to our members, and I encourage you if you are either in a current leadership position or desire to be in a leadership position one day

Xavier Bates having a little fun after the District meeting practicing his “milking” skills at the Moo-Thru

Thought for the day courtesy of the Moo-Thru Official

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The current participants in the Leadership program will probably do their project presentations around the time of our Spring Board of Governor’s meeting. If you have the opportunity to attend this and see some of our leaders of tomorrow in action, I would encourage you to do so!

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LifeCare’s Cancer Awareness Ambulance crew dropping off a patient at Mary Washington Hospital.

Chief Dillard and Station 1 Management delivering lunch to a Fredericksburg, VA crew.

LifeCare Medical Transports Celebrates 2019 EMS Week LifeCare Medical Transports was excited to celebrate its over 400 First Responders over this year’s EMS Week. LifeCare’s seniors leaders along with its corporate management team traveled all over Virginia to visit each of LifeCare’s 8 stations.

Duing each visit, employees were able to meet with key individuals of LifeCare’s dispatch center. LifeCare’s 24/7/365 dispatch center is located in Stafford, VA. This opportunity gave employees the chance to place names with faces. It was also an opportunity for senior leadership to meet with and thank many of LifeCare’s outstanding employees. While LifeCare is a statewide company, its essential foundation and values have always been greatly focused on community service which could not be done without its dedicated employees.

While EMS Week might be over the overwhelming gratitude and appreciation for LifeCare’s hard working and dedicated team is ongoing. Thank you to all First Responders for your hard work and dedication to your communities.

LifeCare’s Newport News crews with Station 1 Management and Senior Leaders.

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LifeCare’s Northern Virginia crews with Station 1 Management and Senior Leaders.

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VAVRS Camporee Submitted by Joan Smoot AVAVRS Southcentral District Vice President

If you missed the Camporee, you missed a great time of fun, food and fellowship. The weather could not have been more perfect; blue skies, gentle breeze and warm temperatures. A big shout out of thanks to Scott Masincup and his team for putting on a great weekend.

Bruce and Brenda Stratton from Concord again bought the trailer filled with sand and filled it with money and small trinkets for the kids to go treasure hunting in.

Maybe next year they will let the big kids play. All of the children had a great time playing in the sand and finding the money hidden that they got to keep.

Always fun to have a little change in your pocket.

Good times were had by everyone just sitting around talking and relaxing during the day on Saturday. Not usually a lot of time for people to do this during Convention or Spring Board so this was a good way for people just to relax and enjoy the day. A perfect place to do this in the beautiful mountain area with the rumbling river going behind the campsite.

Dinner was served at 6:00 on Saturday. If you went away hungry, it was your own fault. Thanks to all of the Auxiliary members that provided desserts. We had so much food it was hard to choose. It was all so good. Scott Masincup made a fabulous dessert which was “finger licking good” and everyone was looking to get more of it until the last bit was grabbed up. Looking for more of it at the cookout at Convention Scott!

Scott Davis and his Company again provided T-shirts for everyone for the Camporee. Thanks Scott for your generosity. The T-shirts are really appreciated.

Overall, we had 81 VAVRS, AVAVRS and other guests attend the Camporee this year. Each year it increases. Let strive to make it a 100 next year. It’s a great way to spend a weekend, an afternoon, or a few hours. Hope to see you there next year.

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National EMS Memorial Service By: Karen Owens, Emergency Operations Manager, Virginia Office of EMS The 2019 National EMS Memorial Service was held on Saturday May 18, 2019 at the Gaylord Resort and Conference Center. We honored 27 EMS providers during this years’ service.

To see a copy of this years’ service program, go to http://www.national-ems-memorial.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/2019NEMSMS-Program-final.pdf Take the time to read about each of the line of duty death’s listed in the program. If you are able to assist with helping financially with the program, consider making a donation now for the 2020 service through the “Adopt-a-Family” program or through one of our other sponsorship opportunities.

If you, your agency or business would like to support this program, please send a check made payable to the NATIONAL EMS MEMORIAL SERVICE, care of the VAVRS office at P.O. Box 279, Oilville, VA 23129. Cost of sponsoring a family is $350 and we encourage more if you are able to do so.

Any questions about the service, please feel free to reach out to me. Your continued support of the National EMS Memorial Service is greatly appreciated!

Left: Barbara and Bob Morrison (VAVRS District 10) with Astra (CISM Therapy dog) at the 2019 National EMS Memorial Service.

Right: Astra with one of the participants at the NEMSMS. Page

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Virginia Office of EMS Launches “Make the Call” Campaign to Raise Awareness of First Responder Mental Health and Wellness By: Karen Owens, Emergency Operations Manager, Virginia Office of EMS Working in public safety is both rewarding and stressful. Some days will leave you smiling, while other days will leave you questioning whether you want to continue doing the work. The work first responders do is stressful and leads to increased levels of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and suicide. A 2017 study found that first responders are more likely to die as a result of suicide than in the line of duty (Cerullo, 2018). Unfortunately, many first responders are not aware of the resources available to assist in dealing with the effects of the stress.

This is where the Virginia Office of EMS’ “Make the Call” campaign comes in. The goal of the campaign is to remind first responders and those who know and love them that it is okay to make the call. It is okay to reach out for help. It is okay to take care of yourself. As part of this campaign, the Virginia Office of EMS is providing access to numerous resources to help providers and agencies recognize the signs and symptoms associated with post-traumatic stress and understand the training and resources that are available, not just for the first responder, but for the family as well. These resources include a video for social media sharing, posters that can be printed and shared and materials that provide help to those struggling with the impacts of stress.

The “Make the Call” campaign materials and other mental health resources are available at www.vdh.virginia.gov/makethecall. For additional information about the campaign, email Karen Owens, emergency operations manager, at Karen.Owens@vdh.virginia.gov.

Cerullo, M. (12, Apr 2018). First responders more likely to die from suicide than in line of duty. http:// www.nydailynews.com/news/national/responders-die-suicide-job-article-1.3930162

LifeCare Medical Transports Receives the 2019 Stafford Cornerstone Business Award On May 15, 2019, LifeCare Medical Transports was presented with the 219 Stafford Cornerstone Business Award at the 28th Annual Stafford Economic Development Business Appreciation event. The Cornerstone Business Award is awarded to a Stafford County business who has greatly impacted the Stafford community and will continue to support and impact the county’s economic development for years to come.

LifeCare’s Vice President Dan LifeCare, which originated in Stafford, VA, has Wildman and Vice President continued for the last 25 years to serve the Finance & HR, Tasha Browne community with integrity and compassion. accepting the 2019 Stafford LifeCare along with its senior leaders continue to Cornerstone Business Award for participate in a wide range of community events LifeCare Medical Transports. each year. Many of LifeCare’s 500 employees continue to serve their communities as volunteers in the Fire and Rescue communities. The successful growth of the now, Virginia wide company is related to maintaining the core values of trust, compassion, and quality care for all those who LifeCare serves.

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LifeCare is honored to receive this great recognition which could not have been accomplished without the hard work and dedication of the entire LifeCare team. Serving the community for over 25 years, LifeCare’s leaders and employees look forward to the continued growth and development within Stafford County for many years to come.

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EMS EXCHANGE PROGRAM Kevin Dillard, Chairman

We are excited about having our four guests from Germany arrive for their visit with us for our 2019 EMS Exchange Program! Our guests will arrive on October 25th and end their visit with us by participating with the Virginia Office of EMS Symposium from November 6-10th.

Alexander Afrim, Moritz RoĂ&#x;kothen, Rouven Gerlach and Steffen Wellbrock are all looking forward to learning more about EMS in Virginia and getting the opportunity to meet the members of the VAVRS. As we fine tune the travel plans we will be communicating the details so that you can track their activities though our EMS Exchange Facebook page and also hopefully get the chance to meet our visitors.

If anyone needs more information, please feel free to contact me at kdillard@lifecare94.com<mailto:kdillard@lifecare94.com> or call me at (540) 752-0137.

Rescue Squad Assistance Fund Kevin Dillard, Chair

The Rescue Squad Assistance Fund (RSAF) is a multi-million dollar matching grant program for Virginia governmental, volunteer and non-profit EMS agencies and organizations to provide financial assistance based on financial need. The monies are primarily for EMS equipment and vehicles along with EMS programs and projects.

The current grant cycle awards will be announced after July 1st where over $4 million will be awarded to agencies.

There are two grant cycles each year, one with a March 15th deadline and the other with a September 15th deadline.

Training is being offered throughout the year in the various EMS Council regions on the grant program along with webinars. Check your local EMS Council website or the Virginia Office of EMS website for dates for the upcoming training sessions.

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Virginia Office of EMS Develops EMS Officer 1 and Standards of Excellence Programs

By: Tim Perkins, Virginia Office of Emergency Medical Services, Division of Community Health and Technical Resources Manager The Virginia Office of EMSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (OEMS) Division of Community Health and Technical Resources (CHaTR) has been working with the State EMS Advisory Boardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Workforce Development Committee (WDC) and respective subcommittees to develop the EMS Officer 1 (EMSO1) and Standards of Excellence (SoE) programs. The vision of these programs are to provide agencies and providers across the Commonwealth with the knowledge, skills and abilities needed to effectively manage and sustain EMS organizations, and recognize those agencies who are able to go above and beyond the Virginia EMS Regulations.

The EMS Officer program is designed as a series of EMS specific leadership courses. Similar to the Virginia Department of Fire Programs (VDFP) Fire Officer series, the EMS Officer program is structured for leadership development, and is designed to be a successional training series. The EMSO1 course is designed for EMS providers functioning as entry-level supervisor of a single EMS unit. At the agency level, these titles may vary from agency to agency, but EMSO1 most closely resembles the Attendant in Charge (AIC) description in the Virginia EMS Regulations. Major topics covered in the EMSO1 include: the role of the EMS Officer, compliance and accountability issues, recognizing and managing cultural diversity, provider safety and wellness, interface with the community and media, functional leadership, supervising EMS company/departmental operations, effective communications, introduction to EMS operations, incident management systems, and discussions about current trends and topics in EMS. The EMSO1 program was first offered as a pilot at the 2016 Virginia EMS Symposium. Since that initial class, and incorporating student and instructor feedback, the course has continued to evolve into what it is today. To date, the OEMS has provided the EMSO1 training to 180 providers. There are plans to hold additional classes at the First Responder Virginia 2019 Convention in August in Hampton, as well as the 2019 Virginia EMS Symposium.

As the EMSO1 program nears its exit from a pilot program, development of the subsequent EMSO levels will commence. The OEMS and the WDC committee is thankful for the feedback that has been received from the students who have completed the program, as those comments have helped to develop the program. For more information and a list of current course offerings, please visit the Virginia OEMS website: http:// www.vdh.virginia.gov/emergency-medical-services/chatr/ems-officer-i/.

In addition to the EMSO1 program, the OEMS Standards of Excellence (SoE) Program has proven to be a valuable component for agency self-evaluation, as well as a process to identify and recognize agencies striving to operate above the standard requirements of the Virginia EMS Regulations. The evaluation is voluntary and helps guide agency management to ensure that the agency operates as a sustainable entity, and to continue to provide the efficient and effective services to their communities.

To date, the OEMS has identified eight Virginia EMS agencies as Agencies of Excellence. These agencies are: Essex County EMS, Forest View Volunteer Rescue Squad, Galax-Grayson EMS, Goochland County Department of Fire-Rescue & Emergency Services, LifeCare Medical Transports, Loudoun County Fire and Rescue, City of Manassas Fire and Rescue, Virginia Beach Department of EMS. Regardless of the agency operating as a non-profit, for-profit, volunteer, career, or municipal, all agencies are encouraged to participate in the SoE program. For more information on the Virginia Standards of Excellence Program, visit: http://www.vdh.virginia.gov/emergency-medical-services/virginia-standards-of-excellenceprogram/.

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Concord Rescue Squad Wins Award Submitted by Brenda Stratton, Public Relations Officer At this years BREMS Regional Awards Banquet, Concord Rescue Squad received the Outstanding EMS Agency Award!

Our training officer, Jodi Stanley, was awarded the Outstanding Pre-Hospital Educator and our OMD, Dr. Cohen, was presented with Outstanding EMS Physician award.

L-R Back Row : Ethan Ragan, Captain Troy Nelson, Congratulations to everyone who works so Tara Nelson, Training Coordinator Jodie Stanley, hard to make our Rescue Squad successful. Jeff Stanley, OMD Dr. Cohen L-R Front Row: Brenda Stratton Public Relations â&#x20AC;&#x153;In 1971 with only a dozen community Officer & BOG and Gerry Staples Life Member. members, Concord began providing volunteer emergency services and formed Concord Rescue Squad. Because of its close proximity to the county line, Concord Rescue not only serves their community, but they also provide services to portions of Appomattox County. One of the original charter members, Wayne Lankford is still an active member of the squad today. Concord currently has 35 active members, they operate 3 ambulances routinely from their station, and they have an active training division that meets regularly to improve patient care and the needs of their citizens. In an ever changing, fast paced EMS climate where volunteerism has suffered due to job & family needs, Concord has continued to grow and thrive.

Jodi Stanley began her EMS career as a dispatcher for the City of Lynchburg in 1998. She obtained her EMT in 1999 and later went on to become a employee of the Lynchburg Fire Department in 2001. In 2006, she obtained her Paramedic and was promoted to Fire Captain for LFD in 2010. Jodi began her career as an educator in 2009 when she obtained her Education Coordinator. Since that time, Jodi has mentored and taught hundreds of students across the region. She Jodie Stanley was awarded the served as the EMT instructor for Bedford County Public Schools, Outstanding Prehospital Educator through the Bedford Science and Technology division for 6 years.

Jodi currently serves as the Manager of the AHA Training Center for Centra Health, where she is the training center coordinator. Jodi oversees the continuing education for hundreds of providers throughout the Centra Health system. Jodiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s accomplishments do not end here. She also serves as a Test Examiner for the Virginia Office of EMS and a part-time Paramedic/Firefighter with Bedford County Fire & Rescue She is also a volunteer with Concord Rescue Squad, where she serves as the training officer. She also provides education for BWXT EMS regularly as well. Jodi is always willing to help out a fellow provider and she continues to provide EMT classes & continuing education to her community.

Jodi, thank you for your many years of service to the citizens of this region, for your continued drive to provide education to the region, and for your partnership with BREMS over the years.

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Plan to Attend the 40th Annual Virginia EMS Symposium to Receive “An Education for Life” By: Tristen Graves, Public Relations Assistant, Virginia Office of EMS This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Virginia EMS Symposium, one of the largest Emergency Medical Services (EMS) training events in the country and the largest EMS training event in Virginia. This year’s Virginia EMS Symposium will be held, November 6-10, 2019 and is sure to provide an exceptional educational experience.

This year, the Virginia EMS Symposium will offer more than 400 classes in a variety of course tracks, ranging from hands-on to lecture style that will fulfill your continuing education requirements. Symposium course tracks include health and safety, leadership and management, trauma, educator and many more. These courses are also applicable to nurses and physicians.

The Virginia EMS Symposium also provides its attendees with a high quality learning and networking experience that is hard to find anywhere else! All of the instructors are exceedingly qualified in their respective fields, and many of the educators are nationally and internationally renowned!

The Virginia EMS Symposium also offers a Youth and Teen Camp program that allows both young children and teenagers to gain knowledge and training in CPR, personal safety and basic first aid. Both Youth and Teen Camps will are limited and will fill quickly, so be sure to sign up when registration opens.

In addition to receiving numerous options for EMS educational needs, attendees of the Virginia EMS Symposium will have the opportunity to hear from highly sought-out keynote speakers and attend special events, such as the Spirit Night Dinner Cruise on the Spirit of Norfolk and Casino Monte Carlo game night.

The events for Symposium also include the Commonwealth’s 2019 Governor’s EMS Awards ceremony and banquet, which includes an EMS Memorial tribute and the presentation of the awards.

In order to make the Virginia EMS Symposium program successful and to keep costs low for our attendees, we need your support! Please consider sponsoring this special educational event. Learn more about the various sponsorship opportunities that are available at any budget level by downloading a copy of the 2019 EMS Education Sponsorship packet located on the Virginia Office of EMS website at http:// www.vdh.virginia.gov/content/uploads/sites/23/2019/04/2019-EMS-Education-Sponsorship-Packetupdated.pdf.

You don’t want to miss out on this event, which is sure to provide an “Education for Life!” Registration for the 40th Annual Virginia EMS Symposium will open in July.

Please visit the Virginia Office of EMS website for additional information at http:// www.vdh.virginia.gov/ emergency-medical-services/ ems-symposium/. You can also stay updated on the latest information by visiting us on social media at the Virginia Office of Emergency Medical Services Facebook page and @virginiaems on Twitter.

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Dear Rescue Ranger

Dear Rescue Ranger, How soon after waking up is it OK to take a nap?

Sleepy

Dear Rescue Ranger, What would you do if you won the lottery?

Curious in Concord

Dear Bubby, In my experience, on Mondays, immediately, Sundays, after church and all other days during your first morning break. By the way, studies have shown that the reason you are awake right now is because you are not asleep.

Dear Bruce, Get one of my prescriptions filled.

Dear Rescue Ranger, Have ever played Twister?

Fun and Games in Staunton Dear Steve R, Maybe, is that the game where you lock yourself in the cellar and pretend a tornado is coming?

Dear Rescue Ranger, Last time we spoke you were addressing your addiction to chocolate. How is it going?

Worried in Colonial Heights Dear Kenny, Not good, it is day 12 without chocolate and I have lost hearing in my left eye.

Dear Rescue Ranger, What do you love most/least about EMS? Loyal Follower Dear Wayne M. Most—Everyday you will touch a life or a life will touch you.

Least—you get older quicker—but don’t worry too much about getting older. You are going to still do dumb stuff, only slower.

Dear Rescue Ranger, What do you love most/least about EMS? Another Loyal Follower Dear Connie M. Most—EMS is a profession that bores you to insanity one moment, terrifies you the next, keeps you up at night from anxiety and make you question the world but you do it because it is the best part of your life!

Dear Rescue Ranger, Have you ever laughed a something so wrong that you wonder what this job has done to you?

I got into EMS to find that one thing that could change my life and I thought what I do could change the world.

I sure could use some positive reinforcement.

Newly Loyal Follower Dear Matt H. If you are searching for that one person that will change your life, look in the mirror.

How can you change the world? One random act of kindness at a time.

Remember, volunteers don’t necessarily have the time, they have the heart.

Also, remember that what ever you do, always give 100%, unless you are giving blood!

Dear Rescue Ranger, Our newly elected Chief worries me. I believe his position has gone to his head. All he does is bark orders and a few of us don’t really care for that.

A Future Loyal Follower Well I have seen that occur many times in my career. Please remember that Rank is about what is said, Leadership is about what is done. So, hang in there.

By the way, I don’t care for yelling either. My neighbor just yelled at her kids so loud that even I brushed my teeth and went to bed.

Least—You make up excuses for not doing stuff.

Like just this past Sunday I was on my way to church and was almost there when I looked at my phone and it said “No Service: so I turned around and went home.

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PO Box 279 2535 Turkey Creek Road Oilville, VA 23129 ISSN 0279-6023

NON-PROFIT ORGAN..

U.S.POSTAGE PAID WOODSTOCK, VA PERMIT NO. 82

Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads, Inc.

Phone: 804-749-8191 Phone: 800-833-0602 Fax: 804-749-8910 E-mail: vavrs@vavrs.com

"Greater Love Hath No Man Than This, That A Man Lay Down His Life For His Friends."

John 15:13

Need A Specific Training Class go to WWW.VAVRS.COM click on TRAINING Register on line Sign up today HAVING AN IN-DEPTH UNDERSTANDING OF YOUR NEEDS AND GOALS IS THE WAY WE SERVE YOU

NEVER FORGET

SEPTEMBER 11, 2019

The Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads is THE voice of EMS…. the advocate for our members, Virginia’s EMS agencies and providers. We link members and agencies for the purpose of sharing ideas, giving you a voice at the General Assembly, on state advisory boards, as well as on state and local committees.

When our members have training issues or needs, they come to the VAVRS. When our members need assistance from leadership to budgets they come to the VAVRS. We help rescue squads throughout the Commonwealth thrive and succeed so they can provide prompt, effective patient care 24/7 in the communities they serve.

Celebrating our 85th Year of Leadership