Virginia
LIFELINE 3rd Quarter 2020
The Official Publication of the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads
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A MESS AGE FROM THE CHAPL AI N 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. Navigating COVID-19, Today’s Response, Will Lead the Future The safety and well-being of health care and EMS workers affected by COVID19 is of primary importance. As we know now, planning, implementation of procedures and communications in paramount. We are just learning the full understanding of the severity of this crisis and it long-term implications, there are many steps we can take now to improve the situation. 1. Coronaviruses are a group of viruses that can cause a wide range of disease. The most common coronaviruses cause the common cold. Others, like SARS, cause more serious illness. A “novel” coronavirus is a new type of coronavirus that has not been previously identified in humans, and this current outbreak is due to a new coronavirus named COVID-19. 2. The challenge with any novel virus, including COVID-19, is that our immune systems have not been previously exposed to it, so we have little or no natural immunity. 3. The highest risk of infection is in those who are aged 30 and older. In fact, 90% of patients were age 30 and older and only 2% of patients were 19 or younger. The risk was highest in people with pre-existing chronic illnesses including heart disease, diabetes, chronic lung disease, and cancer. This isn’t surprising since the virus can cause pneumonia and individuals with heart, lung or immune conditions are more vulnerable. 4. The overall mortality rate for COVID-19 is 2.3%. This is significantly higher than the rate for influenza which is about 0.15%. However, it’s much lower than the 15% mortality rate for measles or the 50% rate for Ebola. 5. Two major studies concluded that when used correctly AND paired with regular handwashing, masks are highly effective in preventing the spread of viral infections. Improper wear and fit make them ineffective and could be more harmful than not wearing them at all since they could cause you to touch your face, which is the number one way to get sick. A prayer for all health care workers that include First Responders, EMS, Fire and Health Care organizations Heavenly Father - we pray in your name - At this time of high anxiety & stress, we pray for your continued guidance. Please be with us as we confront illness that leave many of us in a state of worry for our families, friends, colleagues, communities, our nation and the world. As health care providers and hospitals seek to continue your healing ministry, bless them for the road ahead, knowing that you are walking this journey with them. Give them signs of your presence, by making their efforts successful. Please comfort those who have already lost loved ones during this dark period. Guide those who are physically suffering and spiritually suffering through this hard time. We commit to strengthen our resolve to lean on your word, abide in your presence, and be guided by your enduring and powerful spirit. We thank you for remaining with us in every age, showing us the results of hope, kindness and peace. Praying for others allow us to take comfort, to collect our thoughts, to remember that all things of this world are short-lived and this too shall pass. We continue forward today, tomorrow and the days ahead by our faith in you. We resolve to care for each other and support each other through this difficult journey before us in our lives both collectively and individually. We promise that there will be no shortage of kindness. Your hand and your strength, give us steadiness, refuge, clarity of purpose, and hope. Amen – Joey King/Chaplain
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2020 VAVRS Officers and Committee Chairs President - Connie Moore Vice President - Wesley Melson Secretary - Curtis Crawford Treasurer - Ryan Scarbrough Training Officer - Toby Akers Chaplain - Joey King Chaplain Emeritus - Page Entsminger Immediate Past President - Scott Davis 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 - Jimmy Lee Pair District 3 Vice President - John V Hilliard Jr District 5 Vice President - Frank Smith District 6 Vice President - Travis Pruitt District 7 Vice President - Catherine Kresmer District 8 Vice President - Thomas Tomlin District 9 Vice President - Tony Cox District 10 Vice President - Diana Wills Executive Director - Matt Henke Finance Manager - Cynthia Babb Office Coordinator - Mary Shively Training Coordinator - Ethan Clark Lobbyist - Ed Rhodes
Convention - Bubby Bish Bylaws - Jim Cromer I T Coordinator - Steve Ayers Rescue College - John Craig Finance - Ryan Scarbrough Scholarship - Carolyn Brand Human Resources - Wesley Melson Legislative - Dreama Chandler Life Member - Gary Dalton Publication - Gary Dalton Hall of Fame - Kevin Dillard EMS Advisory Board - Valeta Daniels EMS Advisory Board - Dreama Chandler EMS Exchange - Scott Davis Nominating - Kevin Dillard National EMS Memorial - Scott Davis Strategic Planning - Connie Moore Training - Toby Akers
2020 VAJVRS Officers President - Brandon Propst Vice President - William Andrews Secretary/Treasurer - Adam Hanger Historian - Laken Woods Chaplain - Shyann Johnson Advisor Chair - Alfred Smith
2019-2020 AVAVRS Officers and Committee Chairs President - Fay Browning Vice President - Eddie Orndoff Secretary - Maxie Kerns Treasurer - Nellie Sue Ritchie Chaplain - Rhonda Thompson Historian - Christy Jefferies Parliamentarian - Carolyn Brand Immediate Past President - Ailease Short Midwestern Vice President - Garland Linkous Northeastern Vice President - Kelly Snell Southcentral Vice President - Bridgette Smoot Southeastern Vice President - Stacey Frame Southwestern Vice President - Marcella Caudill Western Vice President - Kathy Plummer Official
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Membership - Eddie Ann Orndoff Finance - Nellie Sue Ritchie Resolutions - Carolyn Brand Emergency Care - Laura Booze Nominating - Fran Phillips Life Member - Fern Puckett Convention Chair - Joan Smoot Convention Co-Chair - Janis Slough Roll Call Chair - Diane Haga Roll Call Co-Chair - Avil Graybeal Fundraising Chair - Tracey Frame Fundraising Co-Chair - Judy Frame
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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
PARLIAMENTARY LAW: Did you know? Submitted by J. C. Phillips, VAVRS Parliamentarian Did you know you that you may have to break your bylaws when the government says you are not able to have a face to face meeting? What do you do in this pandemic situation? During this Covid-19 pandemic, your organization has to do what is necessary to keep your administrative and operational functions ongoing. The administrative and operations officer should make a plan to keep the squad functioning regardless of what your bylaws say.
Options may include: Having a virtual meeting with your board or membership via GO-TOMEETING, ZOOM, SKYPE or any other software that allows you to have virtual meetings is an option. If you have something that cannot wait until the pandemic is over [elections, bylaw change, etc.] you will have to get creative with a “ballot vote” or give up this type of voting for now. If you feel that a “ballot” vote is required the following way is a suggestion. Mail a ballot to all voting members. One way to do this is by putting a blank envelope and a ballot in another envelope and mail it to all voting members. The voting member marks the ballot and seals it in the blank envelope. The blank envelope is placed in another envelope which is mailed to the assigned addressee with their name and address on that envelope. The persons assigned to receive these votes [at least two] must have a current voting list of members. These tellers must check the name of the voting member off their list and remove the blank envelope placing it in a ballot box unopened. After the deadline date has passed, the tellers open the ballot box and count the votes. We do not know how long this current pandemic will affect our membership. The state may open BUT do you want your members exposed more than they are out running calls by coming together to have a meeting? In this uncertain time you may wish to be safe by not exposing your squad family unnecessarily. Page
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Coming of Age in the Time of COVID-19 by Andrea L.K. Tembreull, NREMT Submitted by Jennifer Long, Public Affairs Officer, City of Virginia Beach, Department of EMS The amazing process of becoming an EMT for the City of Virginia Beach begins with you. In my case, that meant I decided I was in a place in life to dedicate time assisting my neighbors and giving back to my community. In Virginia Beach, there are two tracks from which to choose to become an EMT: traditional college or the City's EMT Academy. I chose the latter and followed the steps necessary to be accepted in the July 2019 class... Academy 34. There are so many amazing people at the EMS Training Center who go above and far beyond their volunteer work to ensure our success! An exciting, informative, and whirlwind five months later, graduation was here! After passing the National Registry Emergency Medical Technician exam, the next step is Virginia Beach's unique internship program where interns are taken under the wings of more amazing people who guide them through learning how to be one of the very best EMT volunteers in the country!
Then there was COVID-19. This virus arrived with a whisper here in the city and continues to insidiously blow around spreading sickness and fear. Should I pause my training? Am I going to be infected? Will I bring the virus home to my family? You hear people on the news asking these same questions, but when it's you having to ask, everything changes! I paused, looked around at my fellow volunteers, and felt the collective strength of hundreds of people who have dedicated a part of their lives to assisting those in need. I realized this moment in time, maybe more than other moments, was precisely why I chose to become a part of this family of volunteers and I had each of them standing beside me. In addition, the Virginia Beach Department of Emergency Medical Services has been swiftly gaging the situation, responding to each new guidance, and deploying safety measures that surpass those recommended, sometimes more than once per day!
I finished my training and was released as an Attendant in Charge (EMT) in March. I can't say enough about the support I've received from family, friends, & neighbors. My family, especially my husband, has sacrificed time with me; belayed hugs until after I've showered; abandoned the garage because I use it to decontaminate; prepared meals; and a giant list of other things they've deployed to assist me. My friends & neighbors leave goodies at our door and provide moral support electronically. I am blessed beyond measure! Am I invincible? No. Am I secure in the knowledge I am being taught the best safety practices possible? Yes. Is there a community out there that needs us right now? Absolutely! We stand before you in order to stand with you! Join us! Official
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Training Reboot! by VAVRS Training Workgroup In March 2020 the VAVRS President authorized the development of a workgroup to review the current practices, policies and procedures of VAVRS training. In addition, the goal of the group was to identify any areas for improvement along with best practices the Training Officer could implement that would help make the VAVRS known as a leader in First Responder training not only in Virginia but throughout this country. The request was for the workgroup to review and make recommendations on every facet of VAVRS training by the 2020 Convention. The workgroup consists of the VAVRS Training Officer, VAVRS Rescue College Chair, VAVRS Training Coordinator, (2) VAVRS Instructors, (2) VAVRS Course Coordinators and (1) facilitator. There was a lot of pre-work to be completed prior to holding a work session. Many hours were spent by the workgroup facilitator, office staff and the Training Officer researching existing training documents, BOG and Executive Committee minutes and interviewing individuals involved in training. During the pre-work it was discovered existing records in the instructor database had outdated information and numerous duplications and errors. The Training Workgroup first met in mid-May for two days and again in mid-June for two more days. The facilitator provided a structured outline of what needed to be accomplished which kept the group on task. Working documents were assembled to address the training standard operations policies, job descriptions for the Training Officer, Division Managers, Training Coordinator, Course Coordinators, Instructor Trainers and Instructors, as well as policies addressing Instructor Recertification and Certification Reset, Health and Safety, Training Structure and Divisions, Performance Monitoring, Counseling and Grievance as well as a Training Complaint Matrix. The workgroup had lengthy discussions regarding the current instructor database. Many inaccuracies were identified and the workgroup made a suggestion to the Training Officer to do a “hard reset” or “reboot” of the VAVRS instructor database. This reset will occur on January 1, 2021. If a VAVRS instructor’s certification expired after December 31, 2010 and the Course Coordinator advocates for renewal, their certification will be extended until December 31, 2021. The workgroup also drafted two bylaws changes. One proposing the Training Committee become a standing committee of the VAVRS and another that further defines the duties to the Training Officer. You will soon be receiving an invitation to provide information in a survey being drafted by the workgroup. Results will be shared with participants and any concerns or opportunities will be addressed by the Training Committee and/or the Executive Committee. With much work to be accomplished the Training Workgroup handed off the remaining work to the new VAVRS Training Committee. Official
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From the AVAVRS Vice President Submitted Eddie Ann Orndoff, AVAVRS Vice President Wow, what a year this has been. I don’t think anyone could have imagined what all of us have gone through these last few months. The year began with preparations for District meetings, the Spring Officers and Delegates meeting and Rescue College. Our convention chair and co-chair were busy planning our convention and return to Virginia Beach. Along came the Corona Virus (aka Covid-19) and quarantines. As if that alone was not enough, then came the protests, some of which were not peaceful but instead turned unruly. Our world as we knew it was turned upside down. Now our world feels like it is spinning out of control. Now I feel myself having the need to do something. Anything to try and make a difference. My personal favorite has been working on sharing my talents with others. Sometimes it was tatting something to give to someone to let them know that they were being thought of. Sometimes it was making face masks. Sometimes, it was baking some goody. And now and then it was picking up a meal and taking it to someone or some group of first responders. Every now and then we all have that moment in time when we get overwhelmed by the current events. During those times, I encourage you to reach out. It is not a sign of weakness, its just a sign that you are human. Find someone to talk to that you feel comfortable with. If you have that need, please feel free to call me. I’ll be happy to talk to you, or you may call our President, Fay Browning. I can be reached by calling (571) 345-8527. I’m hoping that we will be able to get together and see each other real soon, but until then, stay safe and keep smiling. Warmest wishes,
Eddie Ann Orndoff, AVAVRS Vice President
WANTED VAVRS, VAJVRS SCRAPBOOKS Even though Convention has been cancelled this year, many have already started creating scrapbooks. Therefore, there will be a scrapbook competition held. So get those books ready and submit them to me by the deadline stated in the rules. Awards will be given out at a meeting held later in the year being planned by the Executive Committee. Looking forward to seeing a lot of books. Mike Smoot Official
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Forest View Crews Combatting COVID- 19! Submitted by Paige Lawson, Forest View Rescue Squad The COVID-19 pandemic has changed life as we know it, but Forest View crews are still in high spirits and staffing trucks! Due to the pandemic, many of our members had to temporarily take time off from riding due to work concerns or personal health reasons. Luckily, there has been a group of members that have stepped up to fill the gaps in the schedule ensuring 911 services are readily accessible to the citizens of Chesterfield county during the pandemic. Masks have become the new norm, many of our members have learned to cook at the station (as we previously ate out most of our meals), and crew bonding has been monumental to overcoming the stresses of a global pandemic. There’s an old saying “we get by with a little help from our friends” which could not be truer for Forest View. The amount of community support has been monumental. Featured below is a picture of a Waffle House waffle where crews have gotten either free breakfast paid by employees personally at Waffle House or received free meals through their “Heroes Meals” program. There have also been squad donations of masks from the community, sandwiches and lunches from Great Harvest Bread Company, free donuts from Wawa and pizza from 7-Eleven just to name a few. We have been so grateful for the outpouring of support during these trying times, and we feel lucky that we get to continue to answer the call for help in Chesterfield county!
Forest View Rescue Squad member Randy Campbell Page
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Waffle House Waffle
Forest View Rescue Squad members Paige Lawson, Drew LaFountaine and Tasean Leonard 3rd
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From the Legislative Attic Submitted by Ed Rhodes Well, Good Morning on the day that this article is due to the Editor. It will get done between phone calls and helping daughter move, sometime before midnight. As most of you know, the Governor has been having his either three times a week or now twice a week press conferences that have included all of the current news throughout Virginia. PPE or lack of, or deliveries from Northfield, state of emergency and parts of the state going to phase 2 or stuck in phase one. But, as they say, everything will work out, and we keep working out of the attic. During the Governor’s last press conference, he stated he will be calling for a special session in late August to adjust the budget due to the COVID-19 issue and how to fund the approximately $44 million in PPE costs. It now appears that there will be other bills being brought forward that will have an effect on the budget but an effect on much more. One of the proposals will add the COVID-19 virus to the worker’s compensation code along with two other respiratory syndromes. The draft includes firefighters, law enforcement, EMS providers, first responders and health care providers and would be effective on January 1, 2020. This will be the second time this year that VAVRS has been able to secure our members in the W/C code sections. The first was the PTSD legislation with thanks to the VPFF and we have one more to go. I was invited to participate in District 10’s meeting in early June along with other VAVRS officers and representatives from OEMS. It was a very good meeting with lots of information being made available. On June 15th I attended a virtual House Appropriations meeting and will do the same on June 23rd with the Senate Finance Committee. During the session, the 85th Anniversary resolution was submitted to Delegate Bobby Orrock as patron and also one in the Senate of Virginia to Senator Bill DeSteph. Both had numerous co-patrons and we had lined them both up for a convention presentation. Hopefully they will get to present them this fall. You should be able to find the resolution somewhere around this article. So if you get asked either in early August or in January to talk to you legislators about bills, please do so. We are going to need all the help we can muster up. Have a wonderful summer and any questions please feel free to contact me.
HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 317 Offered February 25, 2020 Commending the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads. Patron––Orrock WHEREAS, for 85 years, the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads has helped agencies throughout the Commonwealth provide high-quality pre-hospital care to the members of their communities; and Official
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WHEREAS, the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads was formed in the Green Room of the Hotel Roanoke on February 12, 1935, by Julian Stanley Wise, who had previously formed the first volunteer lifesaving crew in the United States, the Roanoke Life Saving Crew, in May 1928; and WHEREAS, the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads held its first convention on September 28, 1935, in Lynchburg and Julian Wise was elected the first president; the organization started with just six units and now is made up of more than 465 departments throughout the Commonwealth, including volunteer rescue squads, professional emergency medical services providers, volunteer fire departments, and specialty agencies, representing 18,000 individual members; and WHEREAS, the membership of the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads includes auxiliaries and junior squads that assist local agencies in improving service to their communities and the Commonwealth, with the junior squads providing a pathway to the senior squads; and WHEREAS, the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads has been a leader in developing and instituting critical training courses, many of which are now considered statewide requirements and models for other state, national, and international agencies; and WHEREAS, the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads provides a multitude of statewide training opportunities through its Annual State Rescue College, which provides training for more than 300 students annually and will host its 40th session in 2020; and WHEREAS, the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads works in conjunction with other state agencies and those of adjoining states to improve and advance training in all areas of emergency medical services; and WHEREAS, the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads has advocated for emergency medical services departments in state government and supported passage of legislation to gain funding for an office and executive director position in 1976, established the Rescue Squad Assistance Fund in 1978, and instituted the $1.00 for Life program to support regional councils in 1983 and subsequently increased the funding to $2.00 in 1990 and $4.00 in 2002; and WHEREAS, members of the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads have served on numerous boards to enhance the delivery of emergency medical services in the Commonwealth, including the Governor's EMS Advisory Board, of which numerous members have served as chair; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads on the occasion of its 85th anniversary; and, be it RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution 42 for presentation to the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads as an expression of the General Assembly's admiration for the organization's work to ensure that Virginians receive the highest quality emergency medical care. Page
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VAVRS is currently reviewing its training programs and would like your feedback so that we can serve and meet your needs to the best of our abilities. If you could take a few minutes to answer our 10 question survey we would greatly appreciate it. The link to the survey is below:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BK93LFB
From The VAVRS Camporee Chair Christopher Snyder, VAVRS Camporee Chair
All, Hope this report finds you well‌ We spoke with the campground and with the decisions to cancel the rescue college, convention and symposium later this year, the owner and I felt it was in the best interest to cancel camporee in its entirety for this year. We had moved the date to August 14-16 at the Small Country Campground, 4400 Byrd Mill Road, Louisa, VA but with the state not in Phase 3 gatherings of groups of more than 50 is still not permitted, also the campground amenities are still closed. If asked to do this role next year, the owner would love to have us come there.
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Community Rallies Together for Frontline Workers Submitted by Morgan Szymczyk M.A. | Marketing & Communication Manager LifeCare Medical Transports Since early this year, the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the lives of thousands in our community. While numerous changes and alterations to our lives have occurred, one thing has not changed, the support and strength of our community. Like so many other EMS agencies, PPE supplies is a concern during the pandemic. However, during the last several months our community members have not only donated hundreds and homemade masks and PPE supplies, but also donated food and cleaning equipment for our crews. The outpour of support for our dedicated crews has truly been appreciated by all those here at LifeCare Medical Transports. Longtime LifeCare supporters, Jimmy & Dot Dillard helped spread the word for the need of homemade masks for LifeCare. As a result, LifeCare has received hundreds of homemade masks for all of their employees. Community churches such as LifePoint Church in Fredericksburg also helped with donations of homemade masks.
Station 2 (Charlottesville) employee, Amanda Fitzwater picking up a donation of hand sanitizer from Silverback Distillery in Afton, VA.
A. Smith Bowman Distillery in Spotsylvania and Silverback Distillery in Afton, generously donated hundreds of bottles of hand sanitizer and cleaning agents. While the donations of masks, PPE, and cleaning supplies impacted the crews greatly, homemade meals from UnMasked Uplifts Inc., Greater Fredericksburg Black Chamber of Commerce, 6 Bears and a Goat, and the Roanoke Regional Restaurant Group made our crews feel a little taste of home while being on the frontlines with COVID-19. As frontline workers, EMS providers accept and understand the sacrifices and the risks associated with their job especially during medical national emergencies. When the community rallies together to support frontline workers and EMS providers, it shows that we are all in this together and that frontline workers are not alone. LifeCare Medical Transports would like to take the opportunity to thank all community members who have supported frontline workers during this national pandemic. Your support and generous donations have shown that our communities are strong and together we will get through this. Make sure you like LifeCare’s Facebook page https://facebook.com/LifeCareMedicalTransports/ to find out more about our amazing employees and community members during COVID-19.
Station 1 (Fredericksburg) employees, Casey Diemel, Lt. Richard Szymczyk, and Devon Taylor enjoying a homemade meal provided by UnMasked Uplifts Inc. Page
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Attention VAVRS Members and Instructors Our classes have opened back up and we are currently in Phase 1. However, they are open with the following guidelines listed below. Follow us on Facebook and at VAVRS.com for further updates.
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Traffic Incident Management Award This award recognizes the accomplishments in the area of Roadway Safety and Traffic Incident Management. This award is open to those that respond to roadway incidents and will be presented in conjunction with the Governors Virginia EMS Awards. The Traffic Incident Management Award Committee is not affiliated with the Governors EMS Award committee and is comprised of representatives from the following organizations: Virginia Office of Emergency Medical Services Virginia Department of Fire Programs Virginia Statewide Traffic Incident Management Committee
Virginia Department of Transportation Virginia Association of Towing and Recovery Operators ELIGIBILITY: Any public safety agency, individual, organization, public or private entity that exemplifies innovation, excellence and that demonstrates a commitment to the advancement of roadway safety and traffic incident management.
Dear Friends, I celebrated my 90th birthday on April 20 of this year. It wasn't as I imagined it to be; I spent it alone in a rehabilitation center after being quite sick. My family did all they could to be with me; they gathered outside my window, sang happy birthday and I got to talk to each of them over the phone as they stood there and smiled. I spent the majority of the day, and the days preceding, reading birthday cards. I received 238 cards from friends all across the state with handwritten messages and well wishes. I want to thank everyone that sent a card, posted a Facebook message and called from the bottom of my heart. I t was humbling to receive such an outpouring of love from people that mean so much to me. I've led a blessed life. I'm blessed to know each of you. Thank you again! Jack Swicegood
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COVID-19: Health, Safety and Emotional Well-being Submitted by: Lt. Richard Szymczyk, MPH Workforce Health & Safety Manager, LifeCare Medical Transports With over 1.9 million cases of COVID-19 having been reported in the United States, the number of those affected physically and mentally by the virus is exceptionally higher. The CDC classifies COVID-19 as an emerging and rapidly evolving situation. With little truly known about the virus, we as healthcare providers must remain prepared to help keep ourselves, our coworkers and our communities safe during this time.
During the past few months, safety measures and protocols have changed drastically within EMS agencies. The heightened safety precautions not only involve donning proper PPE for suspected and confirmed COVID-19 patients and keeping good hygiene in the workplace, but also expand to our lives outside of work. Regardless of your occupation or whether you handle suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients directly, we all have a part in creating a safe environment for our communities and helping keep our LifeCare Medical Transport implemented a mask policy for all employees during their shift. EMS and hospital system from becoming overwhelmed. Safety messages like the one above are sent virtually to staff as well as displayed on each stations’ TV media stream.
As simple as it sounds, an immense part in helping prevent COVID-19 is hand washing. This simple action which takes 20 seconds, can truly help slow the spread of COVID-19 and save a life. Another way to help stop the spread is by wearing a mask in public. Although, wearing a mask in public may cause some discomfort, the cost does not outweigh the benefit of helping slow the spread. While COVID-19 can present a significant toll on one’s physical health, it can also create an even higher toll on one’s mental well-being. EMS providers have been faced with many mentally draining and concerning situations. As the first on the scene, we are at times the last person our patient sees before passing away, or we may see horrific accidents that leave an unsettling and concerning feeling that last much longer than writing up the patient care report. In terms of COVID-19, this virus is at times undetectable to the naked eye. A seemingly healthy patient, may be an asymptomatic patient, leaving providers with a looming feeling after each call. Providers may witness overwhelmed hospital systems or numerous critical patients during a shift, leaving the providers physically and mentally drained. The mental toll of COVID-19 will not be able to be Vivian Delts (Rappahannock EMS Council) and measured like we have measured the number of Tina Rauch (Mary Washington Hospital) visiting confirmed cases. However, there is something we as LifeCare’s Corporate Offices during National (Continued on page 19) EMS Week to show their support. Official
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an EMS community can do for one another. During this year’s National EMS Week, Mary Washington Hospital as well as the Rappahannock EMS Council visited EMS stations to bring a message of “EMS STRONG #inthistogether”. This simple phrase and action of coming by and thanking EMS providers is much more than that. By showing solidarity and support, we as an EMS community along with our councils and hospital systems are creating a bond that will last much longer than COVID-19. As we continue to go through this COVID-19 pandemic and move forward with the reopening of Virginia, I encourage each of you to reach out to your fellow EMS providers, EMS councils, and hospital systems and create a positive dialogue about the health, safety and mental well-being of all medical providers in your regions. COVID-19 will not define our EMS system, but rather our response to this virus as well as our commitment to each other will define how we can move forward together and stronger.
Station 1 (Fredericksburg) employees, Lt. Bobby Rivenbark, Cpl. Blair Hager, Stephani Atkins, and Scott Gast with gifts from the REMS Council and Mary Washington Hospital for EMS week.
What? No Easter Bunny? MCRS to the Rescue! Submitted by William Bazzle
The Madison County Rescue came to the “Rescue” with a great idea to do a “Drive By Bunny”, for the children of Madison County. Captain Steven Dodson and 2nd Lieutenant Training Diane Dodson (in the Bunny costume) traveled all over the county to wave at the Kids and bring them some Easter Joy. Page
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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 Secretary - Joey King Treasurer - Ryan Scarbrough Training Officer - Toby Akers Chaplain - Althea Kidd & Nick Brown
Nominee Bios from the Candidates: Nominee Connie Moore for VAVRS President Serving our Association as President has been an honor and a privilege, and most Definitely a Challenge in this year of COVID-19 being the headlines and the controlling power of our existence! In preparation for being elected to this Position, I’ve spent the past 15-20 years serving in other Officer positions as a guidance to understanding the responsibilities that it involves. 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 Vice President, it gave the understanding on how to grow and go forward to serve as your President. It’s a chance to be the Voice of many, and as a volunteer I will always be the one who represents those who have gone before us and stand for the values 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 enjoy attending their meetings as the fellowship is the BEST! I hope as your President to continue to promote growth in membership, provide training opportunities NEEDED by our members, and gain financial strength for our visions that are ahead of us. May we as an Association ALWAYS be the voice of our Members, Agencies, and Career Staff. Together we will rise above the Viruses, discord of our times, and put our best foot forward to 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 serve as your President! (Continued on page 21)
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Nominee Wesley Melson for 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 and life member with the Colonial Beach Rescue Squad. Additionally, I am the 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, Vice President, and served as the Social Media Manager for the last 6 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
Nominee Joey King for Secretary Joey King has more than 40 years of service as an EMS leader with extensive knowledge in operations, management, and administration. He has served LifeCare in a variety of roles of increasing responsibility—managing all aspects of operations and delivery of services including business development, administration, safety, risk, acquisitions, vendor relations, purchasing, and fleet maintenance in multiple jurisdictions. Joey serves on numerous local, regional, and state committees which include the Interfacility Transport Committee for the Peninsula’s EMS Council, Regional Pharmacy Committee Chair, Regional Stroke Committee, and Board of Directors for the Rappahannock Community College Paramedic Program
Joey has received numerous awards for Excellence in EMS, multiple accommodations for the saving of a life, a service award for actions during 911 (September 11, 2001) during the events at Charlottesville (2017) and the prestigious “Star of Life Award” from the American Ambulance Association. Outside of EMS, he serves as Mayor of the Town of Montross—county seat of the historic Westmoreland County and Chaplain of the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads. (Continued on page 22)
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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.
Nominee Toby Akers for Training Officer I began volunteering in EMS in 2014 at Christiansburg Rescue. I started volunteering as a Junior Member and later served as the agency Junior Captain. During these past six years, I have served in many leadership roles, including CPR Coordinator, Life Member Liaison, ACCE Coordinator, and Membership Lieutenant. Since taking a full-time job at the 911 Center and still having my school committee, I stepped back into an Associate Member role at Riner Rescue. Outside of my agency, I have served as District Seven Vice President and VAVJRS Secretary/Treasurer. I have served on the Rescue College, New Course Development, and Strategic Planning Committee. Most recently, I was elected as the State Training Officer and had been serving in this role for the past year. I celebrated my first anniversary as an EVOC Instructor, and I could not be more humbled to be a part of our elite group of instructors. I currently work for NRV911 Center as a Communication Officer and am a full-time student pursuing a degree in Public Relations/Communications and Business Management. This past year as Training Officer has been not only enjoyable but also very rewarding. I look forward to continuing the hard work that we have accomplished this year within our training program. It has indeed been an honor to serve the association and its members as your Training Officer. Thank you again for everything that each of you does for the association!
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Nominee Althea Kidd for Chaplain
Nominee Nick Brown for Chaplain
I am 59 years old and the mother of two grown young men. I am a grandmother of eight grandchildren. I have three Godchildren; one is blind. These young ladies are my heart. I live in Roanoke. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration and I have Master’s degree in HealthCare Administration. I was raised in the church. I have been the Sunday school teacher and also the choir director. We had an after-school program that would help the kids with homework and learning how to use the computer. God has always been first in my life. What a blessing knowing that God wakes you up in the morning and protects you all throughout the day and night.
My name is Nick Brown and I am running for VAVRS Chaplain this year. I am a career firefighter/paramedic with Wintergreen Fire and Rescue. I serve as B-shift Lieutenant. I have been an active part of the VAVRS for almost 37 years and have held many offices at the local and district level. I am currently the District 1 VicePresident of which I have held for the past 2 years.
I am a graduate of the VAVRS Leadership program and also the Lynchburg Chamber of Commerce Leadership program. I am currently enrolled in a national Leadership program that is providing me with many additional skills. As the Director of Operations for LifeCare in Southwest Virginia, I maintain a broad range of contacts and I am involved in many aspects of the company’s operations. I oversee the Roanoke, Danville and Martinsville offices. I enjoy working with the many volunteers and employees throughout the Southwest Virginia region and look forward to serving all the Association members of the VAVRS.
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My career started as a volunteer at Waynesboro First Aid crew in 1983 and received my Lifetime in 1995. I am an active volunteer at Stuarts Draft Rescue Squad and have been a member there since 2002. I have attended Rescue College and Convention and competed on many different competitions over the years. I also hold instructor cards in Vehicle Rescue, and Advance Vertical as well as IT in Basic and Vertical ropes. I met my wife when she was a member of the First Aid Crew. Our entire family is actively involved in VAVRS. WE are members and attend White Hill Church of the Brethren in Stuarts Draft. Our family is involved in foster care and have adopted our 8-year-old out of foster care. We have 7 kids ageing from 27 to 6 years old. I am eager to serve you as your Chaplain and I look forward to meeting you when our situation allows. Be safe and God Bless.
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In Memorial —Virgil Lee Abel, Jr. Past President & Life Member of White Oak Volunteer RS passed away January 28, 2020.
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White Oak Volunteer Rescue Squad would like to Congratulate the winners of the Stephen Lee Gayle Memorial Scholarship to the Class of 2020 Seniors Elizabeth Warren and Sriram Darbha!
The Stephen Lee Gayle Memorial Scholarship Stephen Lee Gayle was born and raised in Stafford County, Virginia. He became a lifetime member of the White Oak VRS in 2010 and dedicated over two decades as a volunteer helping area residents. After an unexpected passing in 2011 WOVRS decided to create this scholarship in his memory. Two students are selected from Stafford Co. High Schools to be recipients, each in the amount of $500. Applicants must by high school seniors and planning to attend a college/university, trade/technical school or who will continue their education in the field of EMS. Page
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Hometown Heroes Travel to New York City and New Jersey In the early hours of April 1st, LifeCare Medical Transports sent the first of 4 waves of crews to New York City and New Jersey to help with the overwhelmed 911 system and hospitals in the epicenter of the COVID-19 crisis. Little did the hometown heroes know, but some of them would be on this journey for over 50 straight days, assisting in hospital discharges as well as working alongside the FDNY to help with 911 calls. During the two months, LifeCare sent over 40 employees from all across the Commonwealth of Virginia. These employees voluntarily left their homes and their families to help those in need in the northern United States.
Lt. Thomas McGowan, Kevin Dillard (President & CEO), and Johnna Chandler before Lt. McGowan and Chandler’s departure to New York City on April 1st.
While in New York and New Jersey, crews were (Continued on page 29)
“Heroes Work Here” sign is displayed at LifeCare Medical Transports to welcome home crews from New York and New Jersey. Official
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exposed to an array of challenges and new experiences as this national health crisis was like no other the EMS system has ever seen. Working alongside EMS providers from all over the country, LifeCare’s providers were able to fully embrace the opportunity to serve their nation. The impact the crews made will never truly be understood as not only did they help save lives by providing medical attention, but also helped a community heal emotionally. The outpour of support shown by the New York and New Jersey community was remarkable as they cheered from their homes for medical workers during the evenings. LifeCare was proud to be a part of one of the nation’s Station 4 (Springfield) employees, Tabitha Fox largest response to a national crisis in recent years. and Ayrton Castillo staged in New York City. During their crews arrivals back to Fredericksburg, Virginia, the Stafford County Sherriff’s office as well as local community members helped ensure they had a true hero’s homecoming. LifeCare is excited to have all of its employees back home from their time in New York and New Jersey. While we as a nation are still fighting this pandemic, LifeCare is ready and prepared to continue the fight here in Virginia to help ensure the safety and health of our community. LifeCare would like to thank all of their employees who volunteered their time, their health, and their hard work in New York and New Jersey. As an EMS agency we are proud to be a part of a great community of EMS providers who truly put themselves on the frontlines each and every day for our patients. While employees were in NY and NJ, employees across Virginia stepped up and assisted in covering shifts to ensure proper coverage. The LifeCare team truly came together and we are proud of all of our dedicated employees for helping keep our communities strong during this time of uncertainty.
On behalf of the Madison County Volunteer Rescue Squad, we would like to extend our thanks and gratitude to Dida's Distillery, located in Rappahannock County, for providing our valuable volunteers with hand sanitizer. We thank you so much. Page
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Dear Rescue Ranger Dear Rescue Ranger, I have been scrapbooking for years. Over those many years I have collected a pretty large amount of scrapbooking supplies. My husband is a little concerned that they take up too much space in our house. What should I do? J. S. Dear Joan, Pretty sure I cannot offer you any advice to tell Mike. My wife does the same thing, She told me, “See, I can fit all my craft supplies into one box!” I said, “Stop call our house a box!” Dear Rescue Ranger, I took a documentation course recently and sure learned a lot of interesting information. According to our QA/QI team my narrative writing and documentation have improved. I know you do a lot of QA, ever read anything really unique? S. S. Dear Steve, Yes, just the other day in the comments section of an ePCR a long-time medic wrote: “Patient believes he is dead, vital signs suggest otherwise.”
Dear Rescue Ranger, Our squad has followed the COVID-19 advice issued by the CDC, local EMS Council, our healthcare system and virtually ever source that has been shared with our officers. I have also taken advantage of the isolation by eating right and exercising. I have lost over 60 pounds! Now I have to buy a new wardrobe but I sure am proud of myself. S. R. Dear Steve, Well, well. Congratulations. I can’t say that I have done that well. I did set my jacket on fire...now it’s a blazer! Dear Rescue Ranger, During this quarantine I decided to learn to play a musical instrument. I bought a set of drums and getting pretty good. We should get together sometime and jam. Oh, by the way, as a side benefit it annoys my neighbor. E. R. Dear Ed, I know what you mean. Someone knocked on my front door at 3 a.m.….3 A. M. Luckily I was already up playing my bag pipes.
Dear Rescue Ranger, Times sure are strange. So much has been disrupted by what is currently going on in the world and all over our country. Times are hard and incomes have become unstable in many families including my own. Any words of wisdom? C. C. Dear Curtis, It is hitting my family hard also. The other night a thief broke into my house looking for money. I got up and searched with him. Dear Rescue Ranger, I have reached the twilight years of my life. Celebrated my 75th birthday and still going strong but many parts of me have slowed drastically. R. S. Dear Ronnie, I have entered the snapdragon part of my life. Part of me has snapped and the other part is draggin! Dear Rescue Ranger, We have been holding off on a family vacation because of the recommendations for social distancing, facial covering and many other requirements as we move through Phase 1, 2 and 3. I think after we get into Phase 3 I will take the family to a beach and hopefully we only have to worry about sharks. W. M. Wesley, Don’t work, sharks can only attack you if you’re wet. Official
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Virginia Lifesaving and Rescue We are in hopes that there will be a one day Convention meeting in the September timeframe this year. If so, our plan is to award The Rescue Hall of Fame awards at that time. We will then follow up with an article in the following Lifeline about the award recipients.
Rescue Hall of Fame Chair Kevin Dillard
Rescue Squad Assistance Fund Grant Program Submitted by Kevin Dillard, RSAF Chair The Rescue Squad Assistance Fund (RSAF) Spring cycle award's program closed on March 16th and the grant committee met on June 12th to make award recommendations to the Health Commissioner. Over $17 million in requests were received and just over $3.5 million was available for award. Awards are officially announced after July 1st and you can go to the Office of EMS website at http://www.vdh.virginia.gov/emergency-medical-services/administration-finance/rsaf-grants-program/ to see which agencies were awarded grants. The next cycle will have a grant deadline for submissions of September 15, 2020. There is a lot of information on the website link above in reference to the grant program. Please reach out to your local Regional EMS Council or the Office of EMS for assistance in preparing your grant or to learn more about the grant program and the opportunities for funding. This 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. Priority for this year's grant funding is Emergency Medical Dispatch. If you know of a County or City in Virginia that still does not have EMD, please consider encouraging them to apply for this grant. I am happy to assist if any of you have any further questions on this. You can reach me at kdillard@lifecare94.com<mailto:kdillard@lifecare94.com>
District 10 Meeting Holds Virtual Meeting On June 6, 2020 VAVRS District 10 held a virtual meeting. VAVRS District 10 Vice President Diana Wills set up the meeting with the help of VAVRS Executive Director Matt Henke, VAVRS Vice President Wesley Melson and Kevin Dillard. Guest presenters included VAVRS Officers Connie Moore, Wesley Melson, Toby Akers, Bubby Bish, Gary Dalton, and Joey King as well as VAVRS Executive Director Matt Henke; Debbie Akers, Accreditation, Certification, & Education Division Manager, VAOEMS and Karen Owens, Emergency Operation Manager. The meeting was very informative and productive. Page
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PO Box 279 2535 Turkey Creek Road Oilville, VA 23129 ISSN 0279-6023 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
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Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads, Inc.