Virginia
LIFELINE
4th Quarter 2018 The Official Publication of the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads
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Geographical Map of the Nine Districts of the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads, Inc. Provided by Kevin Dillard, VAVRS Life Member Page
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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 - Chris Snyder District 5 Vice President - Mike Smoot District 6 Vice President - Scottie Adams District 7 Vice President - Toby Akers District 8 Vice President - Thomas Tomlin District 9 Vice President - Dwayne Stanley District 10 Vice President - Byron Andrews Executive Director - Matt Henke Training Coordinator - Kathy Eubank Office Assistant - Cindy Bailey Bookkeeper - Cynthia Babb Lobbyist - Ed Rhodes
Membership - Connie Moore Human Resources - Connie Moore Bylaws - Bruce Stratton Life Membership - Mike Moore Publication - Gary Dalton Convention - Tarry Pribble Convention Co Chair - Bubby Bish Finance - Wayne Rapp Future Vision - Kenny Frenier EMS Advisory Board - Valeta Daniels EMS Advisory Board - Dreama Chandler Rescue College - Wayne Myers New Course Development - Jason Morgan Scholarship - Greg Burton Public Relations Social Media - Wesley Melson Recruitment & Retention - Wesley Melson Rescue Hall of Fame - Lin Matthews EMS Exchange - Kevin Dillard Legislative - Bubby Bish Information Technology - Steve Ayers Camporee Event - Scott Masincup Nominating - Kevin Dillard
2017-2018 VAJVRS Officers President - Adarah Williams Vice President - Brandon Propst Secretary/Treasurer - Sheriz Chisley-Strickler Historian - Kimber Murphy Chaplain - Maryellen West Advisor Chair - Alfred Smith
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 - Diane Haga Western Vice President - Laura Booze
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Convention - Maxine Kerns Convention - Ruth Swicegood Nominating - Fern Puckett Life Membership - Dolores Hudson Emergency Care - Nellie Sue Ritchie Roll Call - Christie Jefferies Roll Call - Valerie Becker Fundraising - Stacey Frame Fundraising - Tracey Frame
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Deadline for the Upcoming Issues of the VIRGINIA LIFELINE Deadline for future issues are as follows: Jan 1, 2019 for the 1st Quarter 2019 Issue
Photos and/or graphics are acceptable and can be returned if requested.
April 1, 2019 for the 2nd Quarter 2019 Issue July 1, 2019 for the 3rd Quarter 2019 Issue Sept 1, 2019 for the Convention 2019 Issue Oct 1, 2019 for the 4th Quarter 2019 Issue
Contact the VAVRS Editor (editor@vavrs.com) if you need assistance submitting to the publication.
Jan 1, 2020 for the 1st Quarter 2020 Issue April 1, 2020 for the 2nd Quarter 2020 Issue
Advertising Rates: Member Squads…,…......no charge Full Page…………………..$ 275.00
Articles may be submitted by any member of the VAVRS, AVAVRS and VAJVRS.
Quarter Page……………....$100.00
Feature articles are encouraged.
Business Card……………..$ 50.00
Half Page………………..…$150.00
From the Editor, One of the issues that each non-profit organization faces is communications. How do we get information to our members so we can continue to grow. To keep our membership informed about news within the organization and to attract new members is a daunting task and takes work. The challenge is actually the responsibility of all of us. In our busy lives we are pulled in all directions and often we overlook opportunities that are right in front of us. An example of that is this publication. It seems such a simple and effortless task to take a photo, write a short message or story about a training or successful service delivery. To submit that information to VIRGINIA LIFELINE would allow us to share it with our entire membership and spread the pride you have for your organization. For over 15 years I have been involved with LIFELINE and even though we continue to have a publication that we are proud of it still lacks the information that could benefit many within our membership. Stories about our members that serve in our military, members that advance their EMS careers into other medical related fields, agency tenure anniversaries, news from the past, new trends in EMS, equipment for sale or give-a-way, training opportunities, participation in community events and just about anything that you think our network of EMS providers could benefit, yes, even humor (that was for the Rescue Ranger). This next year, make an effort to keep your neighbors advised and your association aware of the pride you have in your membership and agency. Share it with others. The deadline for each quarter of the LIFELINE is the 1st day of the quarter and made available on-line at VAVRS.com and in the mail by the 15th of that same month. Share your pride—share your success—share and see the reputation of your agency grow right in front of the eyes of the entire membership of the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads, Inc.
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Gary P. Critzer Honored for his Service as Member and Chair of the Virginia EMS Advisory Board Waynesboro First Aid Crew Life Member Gary P. Critzer was honored for his years of service as a member and Chair of the Virginia EMS Advisory Board by the Board and was presented a resolution by Scott Winston, VAOEMS Assistant Director at the August 3, 2018 Board Meeting. A resolution officially recognized Gary P. Critzer— Whereas Gary P. Critzer, NRPCC EMT-P, has dedicated more than four decades of service to the emergency medical services field, as a volunteer and career professional. He has represented EMS interests throughout the Commonwealth by serving at the local, regional and State levels to help improve Virginia's EMS system. And whereas Critzer has been recognized for over 40 years of service in the involvement of EMS in Virginia, since 1975, he has held various roles including paramedic, officer, president, captain, first and second lieutenant, training and communication sergeant and life member of the Waynesboro First Aid Crew. He created improvements in EMS communications regionally and served on the State EMS Communication subcommittee as a member since 1995, and chair from 2003 to 2008, and 2011 to 2017. He strengthened the Central Shenandoah EMS Council while serving as its president of the board of directors and enhancing educational opportunities for both instructors and providers while sharing his experiences and perspective on various Board and committees. And whereas in November 2007, Governor Timothy Kaine honored Critzer for the Governor's EMS Award for Excellence in EMS. This award is the highest level of recognition issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia to EMS personnel. And whereas Critzer was -- has managed numerous commitments effortlessly while serving as the director of the Waynesboro Department of Emergency Management and EMS, and simultaneously campaigning for improvements in the Virginia EMS system to assist providers in maintaining the high quality of pre-hospital patient care provided in their communities. And whereas therefore, Critzer extensive career in EMS, he has served in positions at the local, regional and State level including serving as a member and chair of the State EMS Advisory Board from 2002 to 2008 and serving a second term for 2012 to 2018. He was a member, first and second vice-president and president of the Virginia Association of Governmental EMS Administrators from 2012 to 2018. And most recently is serving as the EMS representative for the State Board of Health. Therefore, be it resolved that the State EMS Advisory Board and the Virginia Office of EMS hereby commends and honors Gary P. Critzer, National Registry paramedic, critical care EMT-P, for his commitment and contributions to Virginia's EMS system, and for his service to protect the health and promote the well being of all people in Virginia.
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AUXILIARY OF THE YEAR— STAUNTON AUGUSTA RESCUE SQUAD Submitted by Kim Galloway Several members from the Auxiliary to Staunton Augusta Rescue Squad were able to attend convention this year and participate in the meeting and activities. What a wonderful time of sharing and celebrating the accomplishments of each of the Auxiliaries throughout the state. The Auxiliaries have been very busy supporting their prospective squads and crews this past year. The Auxiliary to Staunton Augusta Rescue Squad was no exception. We continue to provide meals for our squad for business meetings as well as training opportunities when needed. Our various fundraising project including the Plant Sale allowed us to provide the squad with $50,000 gift to the squad at our Anniversary celebration to be used towards a grant to purchase a new ambulance. Community support is a passion of our auxiliary and we have become involved in the Backpack program with a local church to provided weekend meals for children at a local elementary school. We are looking at opportunities to expand this service project to other areas of our county. We also have donated needed items Valley Mission, Blue Ridge Area Food Bank and to Western State Hospital. Access to care and services has been identified as a community need and we have been able to contribute items to help patients prepare for reentry into the community as well as clothing and personal care items. Our Auxiliary was excited to be awarded at Convention for our work with Auxiliary of the Year. This was an honor to be recognized for our accomplishments and it was made extra special to receive this award as we close out the year on our 50th Anniversary of becoming an Auxiliary. We look forward to continuing our work and service to our squad and community in the coming year and assisting our squad in providing the best prehospital care.
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Waynesboro First Aid Crew Auxiliary Submitted by Cece McCormick / Jill Stachowski Hello everyone, hope everyone enjoyed themselves at the beach/Convention. Let me start with in June we had an all day scrapbook event and our building. At Rescue college we had three members attend. Our Western District meeting was held in Broadway. In July we prepared a meal for our home town baseball team. In August we had an information table at National Night Out in the Target parking lot in Waynesboro. We also had a banquet at our building for the Class of 1951 Wilson High School. Historian Cece McCormick has been working vigorously on the scrapbook before the deadline and handdelivered it to the State Historian in Glasgow. On September 11th we decorated our building in honor of the Heroes of 9/11. We were at our building on stand by cooking for Hurricane Frances, where we fed emergency personnel. Finally, Convention time. The Auxiliary always hosts a hospitality room at our hotel with food drinks and snacks, to help out the crew members and guests. For three days our auxiliary handled the door prizes, a few of our members of the auxiliary received certificates in the AVAVRS as Finance Committee and the Emergency Care Committee. Congratulations! At the Saturday morning awards banquet our auxiliary received First Place for our Scrapbook that was submitted by Cece McCormick of the Auxiliary of the Waynesboro First Aid Crew and Historian. Western District scrapbook took First Place. It was submitted by Kathy Plummer and our Auxiliary brought home the Attendance Award trophy for auxiliaries with 12 and over membership. At the Saturday evening banquet we were very proud of our Crew for participating in the EMT Competition. Our Squad also took First Place for ALS Call of the Year. Our EVOC team took Fifth Place. We are proud of everyone whom attended and completed. Congratulations Western District. We continue to feed our squad members and fire department at monthly drills, our Thursday night dinner and Friday morning breakfasts. We also continue going out once a month with Auxiliary member’s birthdays to celebrate and have fellowship.
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Millboro Area Rescue Squad Turns 20 Years Old! Submitted by Jeff Grimm, Chief Millboro Area Rescue Squad Whew! What a year we have had and now we have convention behind us. Hope everyone enjoyed all the festivities at the beach. I feel like everything went well; even though there were a few challenges which we faced without too much difficulty. It is hard to believe that the Millboro Area Rescue Squad is 20 years old. It seems just like yesterday that 36 people got together and decided that the squad was needed on the east side of Bath County. The association was so helpful In the formation of the crew. Kevin Dillard got me in touch with Jack Morgan from Campbell County Rescue Squad. Jack meet with us on a continual basis and helped locate equipment from North Hampton, Campbell County, Amherst Rescue Squads and OWL Fire Department to get us started. The very first EMT class was taught at Millboro Elementary School with us having 16 people in that class. We answered our first call on June 28, 1998 after 9 months of fund raising, training, and planning. The first 3 years were pretty tough. We answered calls from our captains house. The two ambulances that had been donated set in his yard. The supply room and office was a spare bedroom. Yet the crew overcame these obstacles and moved forward. Fast forward to today. We operate out of a 5 bay building with a meeting hall, training room, and Chief's Office. A 2012 4x4 Horton Type 1, 2016 4x4 Horton Type 1, 2005 Medium Duty Rescue, 2 Quick Response units , and a 2014 John Deere Gator with a transport bed for mountain rescue. My squad can never repay the Association, Kevin Dillard, Jack Morgan, Karen Wagner, and all the crews that donated equipment and trucks to our cause. We just want to say thank you and we want you to know that your time and effort is what made our crew a success. To use a phrase that Jack Morgan first told me back in 1997 and I still use to this day, "Remember the sky is the limit, or should I say MARS". Official
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Car Seat Law Changing in 2019 Virginia’s New Car Seat Law: What You Need to Know, from Safe Kids Worldwide info@safekids.org. By: David Edwards, Pediatric Emergency Care Coordinator, Virginia EMS for Children Coordinator—Reprinted from the Summer 2018 Issue of the VAOEMS EMS Bulletin
LAW: This spring, Virginia’s legislature passed a new, more robust law on child passenger safety, and Governor Ralph Northam signed the bill into law. It makes Virginia children safer by requiring them to remain rear-facing in their car seats until they reach 2-years-old or the minimum weight limit called for by the car seat manufacturer. If your vehicle does not have a back seat, the child may sit in the front passenger seat, but only when the passenger seat airbag is deactivated. The law does not apply to taxis, school buses or limousines. The law does not go into effect until 2019, but these tips will help ready your car now.
FINE: Break the law and the fine for a first offense is $50. WHEN: Virginia’s new car seat law goes into effect on July 1, 2019. But, you can start keeping your toddlers safer TODAY by putting your small child safely in the rear-facing position.
WHY: The law is based on current recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Infants and Toddlers are “head heavy,” and the rear-facing car seat does a better job of supporting the head, neck and spine of smaller children as their bodies are still developing.
OLDER KIDS: Virginia law is unchanged for older kids. Children 7-years-old and under must be restrained in a car seat or booster seat in the back seat of a vehicle. An adult seat belt is permissible ages 8years-old to17-years-old, and seat belts are required for the driver and all passengers.
GUIDE: Safe Kids created The Ultimate Car Seat Guide, which is your go-to resource for personalized car seat safety tips based on your child’s age and weight. Check it out and learn what type of car seat is best for your child, and tips on how to properly install and fit the car seat. Download the guide at: https://www.safekids.org/ultimate-car-seatguide/. The Guide is also available en Espanol at: https://www.safekids.org/ultimate-car-seatguide/es/.
CHECK IT OUT: You can get your child’s car seat inspected by a certified technician. Contact your local Virginia Safe Kids Coalition to find out how or visit: https:// www.safekids.org/coalition/safe-kids-virginia. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration also has a feature to find car seat technicians, at: https://www.nhtsa.gov/ equipment/car-seats-and-booster-seats#install -inspection. For more info, please contact David Edwards at David.Edwards@vdh.virginia.gov.
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Wagner and Dalton Inducted Into Hall of Fame Submitted by Kevin Dillard, Hall of Fame Chair During the 2018 Convention held in Virginia Beach, both Gary Dalton and Karen Wagner were inducted into the Virginia Lifesaving and Rescue Hall of Fame during the awards ceremony at the Virginia Beach Convention Center. The Virginia Lifesaving and Rescue Hall of Fame was established in 1986 as part of the To the Rescue museum. The first person inducted into the Hall of Fame was Julian Stanley Wise. Since that first recognition, there have been only 46 people inducted, including the two for 2018. It is difficult to think of the VAVRS and not think of Gary Dalton and Karen Wagner. Karen Wagner Karen Wagner, a life member of Woodstock Volunteer Rescue Squad, was presented with her award on February 9th during a special ceremony at the Winchester Medical Center, where she was a patient. Her plaque was presented to her by our President, Scott Davis along with three other members of the Hall of Fame and other members of the VAVRS. Also present were some of her family and friends. Her award was again presented before our VAVRS family on September 29th at the annual awards ceremony during the VAVRS Convention. Karen served her community and our association in so many ways over the past 36 years. She has served as President of the VAVRS and was the Editor at the time of her passing on March 19, 2018. Karen also served the EMS community as a member of the Virginia EMS Advisory Board, serving as chairwoman during part of her term. She also served as the Chair of the Financial Assistance Review Committee, which makes recommendations for millions of dollars in awards to the volunteer and municipal EMS agencies across Virginia each year. Karen dedicated herself to EMS training. She served as an EMT Instructor, EVOC Instructor, Infectious Disease Instructor, VAVRS Instructor Trainer and American Heart Association Instructor. The EMS Leadership Challenge Program that was offered each year at the annual VAVRS Rescue College is a program that Karen was very proud of and she served as the program coordinator. This program help train many people in leadership development for agencies throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia. Additionally, Karen was the “go to person” for our Infectious Disease Control programs offered by our association. As an example of her dedication and involvement to this program, there were forth-nice Infectious Disease Control Basic classes offered throughout the state since 2013—and Karen taught forty-two of those! Also since 2013 there have been forty five Designated Officer Courses (DICO), with 520 students— and Karen taught all of these! Karen was not only very active on the state level with the VAVRS and EMS Advisory Board, she also was very active on the regional and local levels. She was a member of the Woodstock Volunteer Rescue Squad since 1982 serving in numerous leadership and committee levels. She obtained her Life Membership with the rescue squad in 1992. (Continued on page 13)
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On the regional level Karen served with the Shenandoah County Fire and Rescue Association in various roles along with also serving on the Lord Fairfax EMS Council. Karen was also the recipient of numerous awards, some of which are the Woodstock Rescue Squad President’s award, LaRue Rickard Memorial Award for Outstanding Service, Outstanding Service Award from the Lord Fairfax EMS Council, VAVRS Outstanding Officer of the Year, VAVRS Life Membership, Governor’s Award for Excellence and the Business Advisory Council Outstanding Leadership Award. She was also recognized by the Virginia General Assembly in February 2018 commending her many years of service to the commonwealth. Karen’s life of service was her way of life. She worked tirelessly to help enhance EMS and also preserve volunteer service. Keeping the best in patient care was her focus and goal. Gary Dalton Gary, a life member of the Strasburg Volunteer Rescue Squad, was presented with his award on September 29th during the annual awards ceremony at the annual convention before his VAVRS family. Gary has served our association in many ways over the years. He is a lifelong resident of Shenandoah County and has always been involved in many community activities. He has over 45 years of experience in EMS. The involvement that Gary has had with EMS on the local, regional and state levels is truly immense. He started with the local fire department in 1969 and then became a member of the Woodstock Rescue Squad in 1971. He held the office of President of the Woodstock Rescue Squad for nine terms in addition to serving as the Captain, Legal Advisor and many other operational and administrative positions. Gary later joined the Strasburg Rescue Squad in 1991. At Strasburg Rescue Squad Gary is a life member and has served as the President, legal advisor and training officer. The Greater Manassas Volunteer Rescue Squad made Gary an honorary member in 1998. Gary has been very active not only on the local level, but also on the regional and state levels. He has served in numerous roles and positions with the Lord Fairfax EMS Council and also been involved with the Department of Emergency Management of the Commonwealth of Virginia. Gary also served on the Virginia EMS Advisory Board and the Medal of Valor Review Board. Gary is very active in teaching others. He became an EMT instructor and has taught over 35 EMT classes to over 750 EMT-B students along with countless refresher students. He has also served as an American Heart Association CPR instructor. The VAVRS has been very fortunate to have Gary as an instructor in several areas—Basic and Light Duty Rescue; EVOC, Basic Rescue Technician, Vehicle Extrication and Haz Mat Awareness. Gary also serves as an Instructor-Trainer for EVOC along with being a Course Coordinator for the EVOC program. His love of teaching also shows with his involvement with being on the staff of the VAVRS Rescue College every year since 1988! Gary has been the recipient of many various awards over the years—some of which are: Outstanding Young Men in America, Citizen of the Year from the Woodstock Chamber of Commerce, County Employee of the Year, Lord Fairfax EMS Council EMT of the Year, Squad member of the Year – Woodstock Rescue Squad, Distinguished Services Award- Governor Douglas Wilder, Lord Fairfax Council Instructor of the Year, EMS Educator of the Year for the Lord Fairfax EMS Council and the Governor’s Award for Excellence in EMS. Gary is a past president of the VAVRS and a life member. He has served as Chaplain, Editor of the Virginia Lifeline and numerous other offices within the VAVRS. He has also chaired and served on many various committees of our association. While Gary served in his official position this past year as our Chaplain, he also quietly behind the scenes did the job of Editor. With the unfortunate health decline of our Editor at the time, Gary stepped up and ensured that each issue of the Virginia Lifeline still came out on time and continued with the high quality that we all have come to appreciate with this publication. Typical Gary—humble, caring and a friend to many!
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Honoring a Dedicated First Responder Submitted by Sara Hunt PR At the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads (VAVRS) District 10 meeting on Aug. 19, a team from Colonial Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad accepted an official resolution by the Senate of Virginia celebrating the life of J. Carlton Hudson, a founding member and Life Member of the squad who served with dedication for over 60 years before his passing in Nov. 2017. Senate Joint Resolution No. 134 was sponsored by Senator Richard Stuart and Delegate Bobby Orrock. The citation noted many highlights of Hudson’s life, including his involvement in establishing CBVRS as well as several other rescue squads in the surrounding region, being inducted into the VAVRS Hall of Fame and serving as an officer in VAVRS and CBVRS.
Pictured from left to right are Byron Andrews, VAVRS District 10 Vice President; Pat FitzGerald, CBVRS Assistant Chief and Life Member; Mary Anna Barrack, CBVRS Life Member; and Wesley Melson, CBVRS member, VAVRS State Secretary, and Past Vice President of VAVRS District 10.
VAVRS President Submitted by Scott Davis, VAVRS President As quickly as last Convention went by, we are here again. First, I want to thank you, the VAVRS for your faith in me to lead this organization into the future. The trust that you all put in me to guide the Association has not been misplaced. This year has been full of trials and challenges and we, as an Association, have met them head on. We have as voted on last year added the position of Executive Director, and we have the absolute right man in that position. Matt Henke has not only brought new and great fundraising ideas to the table he has brought a fresh set of eyes to help us see where improvements can be made. The future of the Association is bright with lots of new things on the horizon. We are taking fresh looks at the entire Association including training, functions, recruitment, and retention to better assist you, our members. Again, thanks to all the Officers that I have had the pleasure to serve with this past year. I am excited about the direction we are moving and look forward to serving you, our members as VAVRS President for the 20182019 term Thanks, and God Bless, Scott Davis, VAVRS President
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From the Legislative Attic Submitted by Ed Rhodes Oh, what a wonderful convention! The Convention Committee did a grand job in getting everything in order, members and attendees to where they needed to be and taking care of any issues that may have occurred. A highlight for me during the convention was to have been asked to install the new officers of the VAJVRS. I received a number of positive comments from those in attendance Saturday evening for not only the installation speech, but bringing all of the members of the VAJVRS present to the center aisle, especially that big group from Cleveland. Also, asking the former juniors to stand and be recognized including President Davis and myself. Did you notice how many “old� juniors were at the head table? This was the first time that I had ever been asked to install officers at one of our conventions. Thank you to the VAJVRS for inviting me and giving me this opportunity. The 2019 General Assembly session is on the horizon and some bills have been introduced. One bill concerning firearms has been introduced again and once again we will strongly oppose the bill. Just recently I met with the Legislative Director for the Speaker of the House concerning the school safety issue along with the NOVA EMS Council Director and the Arlington OMD. EMS has been mentioned a couple of times in the proposed recommendations, but not to the extent that it should have been. We will hear more from the meeting in November in Harrisonburg. Introduction of legislation is slow at the present time, but as we get closer to the cutoff date for introducing bills, the process will pick up. Hopefully there will not be too many really bad bills affecting EMS. The proposed EMS regulations will be presented to the EMS Advisory Board at their meeting during symposium. Needless to say there will be a number of changes proposed with some having a little controversy. Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. See you at symposium and hopefully district meetings and have a wonderful holiday between now and 2019.
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AVAVRS PRESIDENT Submitted by Ailease Short, AVAVRS President Whew! What a year we have had and now we have convention behind us. Hope everyone enjoyed all the festivities at the beach. I feel like everything went well; even though there were a few challenges which we faced without too much difficulty. Hospitality night on Wednesday night was something we tried new this year and hope everyone enjoyed it as much as we did planning it. We feel like we had a great turnout. Casino night has been a real big hit the last few years and I can proudly say that the Auxiliaries contributed around 30 gift cards and then also 4 of the nice prizes given away. Congratulations to all of the winners and hope everyone enjoyed the fun and fellowship. I am very proud of all the auxiliaries for stepping up to the plate and leaving footprints for others to follow in the past year. Award winners for the Auxiliaries were as follows and congratulations to all of you: Midwestern District Attendance – Christiansburg Auxiliary Northeastern District Attendance – Loudoun County Auxiliary Southcentral District Attendance – Bassett Auxiliary Southeastern District Attendance 1-10 – Richmond Auxiliary / 10 over – Bensley Auxiliary Southwestern District Attendance – Washington Co. Auxiliary Western District Attendance 1-12 – Lexington Auxiliary / 12 over – Waynesboro Auxiliary Scrapbook Awards: District 1st Place – Western District District 2nd Place – Midwestern District
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Auxiliary Scrapbooks 1st Place – Waynesboro Auxiliary 2nd Place – Campbell County Auxiliary 3rd Place – Bensley Auxiliary 4th Place – Cave Spring Auxiliary Honorable Mention – Cleveland Auxiliary Outstanding Service Award: Stacey Frame- Bensley Auxiliary Tracey Frame- Bensley Auxiliary Emergency Care Award: None Life Membership AVAVRS Eddie Ann Orndoff – Greater Manassas Auxiliary Auxiliary of The Year: Staunton Augusta Auxiliary
Eddie Ann Orndoff– AVAVRS Life Membership
Congratulations to all the winners. I am proud to announce that the Auxiliaries donated a whopping $261,444.91 to their respective squads over the past year. Keep up the great work.
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As we embark on a new year in front of us, we will be singing to the tune of “Friendship and Hospitality To The Rescue”. We are in for a lot of changes in the coming year as we join Stacy and Tracy Frame—Outstanding Service Award forces with the Fire Association. One big change will be that the convention will be in early August and in Hampton. Please stay alert with notifications as the year goes on with changes in dates, etc. Those auxiliaries wanting to vie for awards remember you need to get your facts together early and get those applications in on time. We will be responding to you as the year goes on.
Thanks for all the you do for the squads, your communities, district, and the state association. We look forward to working with ach of you and hope to see you soon as I continue to travel around our lovely state.
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Jackie Taylor Retires with Almost 25 Years of Service to LifeCare Submitted by Morgan Elkins When we think of the phrase “commitment to excellence,” Jackie Taylor comes to mind. Ms. Jackie has been with LifeCare Medical Transports since close to its beginning. Throughout her career she has not only personified the word excellence, she has touched each and every person who has crossed her path with her gentle demeanor and caring personality. Her positive, compassionate spirit and strong work ethic Ms. Jackie’s retirement have given her the edge celebration at LifeCare needed to act as a role model Medical Transports August 31 for LifeCare employees throughout her nearly 25 years of service. And oftentimes, you would find Ms. Jackie walking the halls speedily making her way to each office collecting signatures for birthday, get well, or sympathy cards— always the one to bring us together and to make sure everyone knew they were cared for. Jackie will forever be a cornerstone to the atmosphere and overall morale of our offices, and District 10 VP Byron Andrews we will strive to maintain the present Jackie Taylor with standards she has set. recognition for her many years Ms. Jackie’s work hasn’t as District 10 Treasurer gone without notice as she has been honored Jackie Taylor being presented with throughout the VAVRS District 10 Life Membership years with numerous awards including the 2013 Fredericksburg Region Chamber of Commerce “Administrative Professional of the Year” and VAVRS District 10 “Life Member” in 2016. No doubt, her accomplishments are based on her unspoken pledge to help others and the innate kindness that she so easily exhibits. While we are elated for Jackie’s retirement, we will miss her dearly.
From all of us here at LifeCare we wish you the best, Ms. Jackie! Official
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First Responders Appreciation Day— Remembering September 11th Submitted by Morgan Elkins, LifeCare Medical Transports Marketing Department At Faith Baptist Church, in Spotsylvania County, honoring Frist Responders has become an annual event occurring the weekend of September 11th. Their event invites all first responders, police, fire, and EMS to come together and be honored during their morning service. LifeCare Medical Transports was invited to the event and eight current LifeCare employees came to the service. The service was led by Pastor Kurt Skelly and featured a sermon on the Good Samaritan and how the Good Samaritan’s characteristics were much like those of a first responder. In the story of the Good Samaritan, the Samaritan was not the first person to show up on scene, but he was the only person to show up on scene and ensure medical help and safety was given. Pastor Skelly spoke about September 11, 2001 and how in many American eyes, the job of a first responder had new meaning. So many people were running out of the towers, however, there were also so many first responders running into the building putting their lives at risk. Pastor Skelly spoke about how LifeCare Medical Transports’ crew was one of the first crews on the scene at the Pentagon. He also told about how additional crews from all across Virginia came to LifeCare’s corporate headquarters and staged for deployment to the Pentagon. LifeCare Medical Transports would like to extend a thank you to Pastor Skelly and Faith Baptist Church for honoring all first responders!
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From left to right: Thomas McGowan, Jeff French, Kevin Dillard, Joey King, Kelly French, Ronni Hess, Diana Wills, Morgan Elkins
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LifeCare Medical Transport Hybrid EVOC Program—Education for the 21st Century Submitted by Morgan Elkins, LifeCare Medical Transports-Marketing Department It is quite often in today’s society for someone to maintain a full time employment and go back to school and continue their education. Most universities and colleges have adapted to our fast pace momentum and created online versions of programs so that even full time employees and those with families do not have to choose to sacrifice their continuing education due to their other responsibilities. In the world of EMS managing work life and family life can be challenging and much like other education paths, sitting in a classroom for several hours after an eight hour work day is not very desirable. Oftentimes, once a student makes it to the classroom setting of their program they are drained and unable to focus, making the program more difficult and stressful on the student. For this reason, LifeCare Medical Transports created hybrid EMS programs to help those who, have a passion for serving their community and others, to be able to achieve those goals and obtain the proper certifications without the constraints of classroom lectures and enabling students to learn from home. In 2015, LifeCare Medical Transports offered the first high quality hybrid EMT certification program in Virginia. LifeCare understands that the minimum program hour requirement doesn’t mean competency. The program allows for students to bypass the classroom lectures and instead be equipped with effective online cognitive learning Official
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programs that are inclusive to several different learning styles at the comfort of the student’s home. Psychomotor competency training and exams are done in a classroom to ensure effective hands-on training, making the hybrid EMT course well rounded and convenient for the busy lifestyles of today’s society. LifeCare Medical Transports has also created a hybrid CPR program. The program is set up so that students can complete the online classroom portion at anytime and then come in on scheduled Sundays and Wednesdays to complete practicals. If the chosen Sundays or Wednesdays do not work for the student, the instructors will make arrangements to meet with the student on another day. Chief Melson and Captain Lohr both teach the program and are working on ACLS and PALS full courses; offering challenge courses currently. Recently, LifeCare has created a hybrid EVOC program allowing students to take the online portion at home and then come in and meet with an instructor to drive and obtain their EVOC. Current providers along with newer providers often times need their Emergency Vehicle Operations Course certification to work or volunteer for an agency. With our busy lifestyles finding a EVOC program that will work into our work and home life can prove challenging. However, LifeCare’s hybrid EVOC course allows for students to take the 10 module course at their own rate. There is no start or end date, meaning the student can take their time with the course and make arrangements accordingly. LifeCare’s EVOC program is not only for LifeCare employee’s as the program is also approved by the OEMS. By allowing students to maintain a full time job and continue their education, LifeCare is removing the stress of choosing between passion and responsibilities and combining the two to ensure that not only the best training is provided, but that everyone has a chance regardless of job situation. Today’s world is changing rapidly and without online courses being available many potential EMT’s would not have the chance to learn or obtain all of their certification. In a world of so many options LifeCare has opened the door to more opportunities within the EMS world. If you are interested in learning more about LifeCare Medical Transports or about our hybrid programs please contact us at training@lifecare94.com.
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PARLIAMENTARY LAW: Did you know? Submitted by J. C. Phillips, VAVRS Parliamentarian Did you know that VAVRS and AVAVRS Life Members are still Life Members even if their original organization is no longer in existence? When you were honored by being voted into Life Membership, you were a member of your local organization. It is not your fault if that organization does not exist in the future. If you are a Life Member of your local Squad or Auxiliary and they are no longer an organization then you are no longer a Life Member, or hold any type of membership in that Squad or Auxiliary. You would be known as a former Life Member if that is the membership you held. If you are a Life Member of a district you will need to check with that District’s Parliamentarian or the District Bylaws to see if you will still hold that honor if your local Squad or Auxiliary is no longer in existence. If you are an Active Member of your local Squad or Auxiliary and the organization goes out of business or has its Charter revoked you cannot be a member of an organization that does not exist. If you wish to stay involved in the VAVRS or AVAVRS as a member, officer, committee chair or a committee member, you must join another Squad or Auxiliary as quickly as possible. As VAVRS Parliamentarian, I continue to receive questions on this subject. I hope the above explanation helps.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2019 Instructor Update March 2, 2019 Oilville, VA VAVRS Spring BOG Meeting March 30, 2019 Roanoke, VA 2019 VAVRS Rescue College June 7-16, 2019 VA Tech, Blacksburg, VA 2019 VAVRS Convention August 8-10, 2019 Hampton, VA Virginia EMS Symposium November 5-9, 2019 Norfolk, VA Official
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Hurricane Florence Evacuations Submitted by Morgan Elkins, LifeCare Medical Transports, Marketing Department When we think of first responders oftentimes we think of them as the people who are walking towards danger while everyone else is walking away. On September 11, 2018, the providers and employees of LifeCare Medical Transports exemplified what it means to be a first responder. Providers and dispatch worked together as a team to provide excellence in patient care and to ensure that all those in the path of danger from hurricane Florence were kept safe. With mandatory evacuations underway for the Hampton and Norfolk areas; many hospitals and nursing homes were faced with the realization that their patients were not safe and needed to be transported. With so many lives on the line and hurricane Florence barreling towards the United States coastline, there was little time to spare. LifeCare has two Stations in the Hampton Roads area—one in Norfolk and one in Newport News. With the increasing call volume, LifeCare’s President, Kevin Dillard, sent ambulances from the LifeCare offices from all over Virginia to help. Ambulances were sent from LifeCare’s corporate office in Fredericksburg along with ambulances from Southwest Virginia and Northern Virginia. In the course of three days 231 evacuations were transported by LifeCare’s 31 ambulances that were in the Hampton Roads area. Many of the patients were long distance transports—going from the Hampton Roads area to Roanoke, Maryland, North Carolina and even two crews
LifeCare Medical Transport responding to a Hampton Hospital to transport a patient.
LifeCare’s Norfolk station preparing for the storm. going to Alabama. Regardless of where the crews were from, the crews became family and worked together with the mission to ensure the safety of all those patients effected by the evacuations. Some providers whose own homes were in the flood zones still came to work to ensure patient safety. After the storm no longer posed a threat to the Hampton and Norfolk areas, LifeCare once again sent crews to transport patients back to the once evacuated hospitals and nursing homes. We here at LifeCare would like to express our gratitude to all of LifeCare Medical Transport returning our employees for their service to our communities and their professionalism during this event. You are what makes LifeCare patients to the Hampton VA. great and together we can accomplish so much! Page
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Alfred Smith
John Nunnally
Todd Southard
VAVRS Life Membership Awarded to Alfred Smith, John Nunnally and Todd Southard During the 2018 VAVRS Convention Life Membership was awarded to three individuals.
Alfred Smith, Blacksburg, VA—VAVRS Junior Advisor, Blacksburg VRS John Nunnally, Milford, VA—VAVRS Swift Water Coordinator, Fredericksburg RS Todd Southard, Montpelier Station, VA—VAVRS Convention Committee
VAVRS Hall of Fame and Life Members attended the Honor’s Breakfast at the 2018 Convention Official
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Submitted by the LIFELINE Editor During the 2018 VAVRS Convention my wife and I were walking through the vendor exhibits and had the pleasure of meeting and speaking with Wyatt Mayhew and Phyllis Mayhew of the Gretna Rescue Squad. They share a hobby—scrapbooking. As you can see their submissions to the VAVRS Scrapbook Competition were exemplary. The time and patience that it takes is mind-blowing. Their love for the Gretna Rescue Squad and District 5 are displayed on each page. Each page is a glowing example of the work and dedication of our membership! Each of us should consider a scrapbook submission at next year’s convention.
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Matt Henke and Family
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VAVRS Hires an Executive Director Submitted by Cindy Bailey, VAVRS Office Assistant Matt Henke has now worked for VAVRS as the Executive Director for seven months. He has greatly enjoyed working for VAVRS and meeting our members and leaders throughout the state. To get to know Matt a little better we have asked him to tell us a little bit about himself. Matt has been married to Kerri for twenty years and has four children, Peyton, Braeden, Rowan and Landin. He and his family reside in Powhatan. When Matt is not working he spends most of his free time with his family. The little bit of free time he has left over he puts into keeping physically active, maintaining his property and playing with his family dog (Snoopy) and cat (Peanut.) Matt’s work experience includes over 15 years of working for non-profits in executive leadership positions and over 20 years of customer service and facility operations management. He has worked in Maryland, South Dakota, and different areas of Virginia. Throughout his career he has had the opportunity to manage and lead a variety of community based facilities. These facilities have served thousands of people in their respective areas. He has led staff teams of up to 300 part time and 20 full time staff at a given time and managed budgets ranging in the millions. His experience also includes marketing facilities and programs, human resource management, fundraising, financial management, strategic planning, board work and development, community development, membership, outreach programming, facility maintenance and management, and staff management. Matt greatly enjoys working in the nonprofit sector. He has always enjoyed helping others and trying to make a positive difference in the world. He hopes to apply his experience to VAVRS and help our association tackle some of the challenges it is facing while also taking advantage of the many opportunities it has. If you haven’t had a chance to talk with him please feel free to call (804)749-8191 or e-mail him at mhenke@vavrs.com.
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First Responders Come to the Rescue on New Forever Stamp U.S. Postal Service Honors All Types of Emergency Personnel MISSOULA, MT — Firefighters, law enforcement officers, emergency medical service professionals and other emergency personnel are being recognized today by the U.S. Postal Service at a special first-dayof issue ceremony for the Honoring First Responders Forever stamp. “Our nation’s first responders rush into life-threatening situations for the benefit of others,” said Guy Cottrell, the Postal Inspection Service’s Chief Postal Inspector and dedicating official. “The Postal Service is pleased to honor their skill, dedication and unfailing bravery with this stamp." The ceremony was held at the Aerial Fire Depot and Smokejumper Center in Missoula, MT, home to the nation’s largest training center for firefighters who parachute into remote areas of national forests to combat wildfires. Artist Brian Stauffer worked with art director and designer Antonio Alcalá and designer Ricky Altizer to create this stamp. As a contributing artist to The New York Times, Time magazine, The New Yorker and other publications worldwide, Stauffer’s illustrations are best known for bridging traditional and digital realms to create a conceptual take on social issues. Emergencies of all varieties and scales occur in our communities every day, from crimes and medical incidents to accidents and fires. These critical situations require men and women who possess the training and knowledge to rescue the endangered, treat the injured, and restore safety and order. First responders are found throughout our society, from small townships to the federal government. They include a wide range of law enforcement professionals and public safety personnel, from air marshals and transit police officers, to ski patrollers, park rangers, and fish and game wardens. For many, it is a volunteer job; for others, it is their full-time occupation. Social media enthusiasts are encouraged to use #HonoringFirstResponders and #FirstRespondersStamps when sharing news about the new stamp. Customers may purchase the stamps through the Postal Store at usps.com/ shop, by calling 800-STAMP24 (800-7826724) or at Post Office locations nationwide. Philatelic products, including first-day-of issue postmarks and covers for this stamp, may be ordered online at USA Philatelic under “Collectors.” Video of the ceremony will be available on Facebook. The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.
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Lakeside Volunteer Rescue Squad 2007 TIMBERLAKE AVENUE RICHMOND, VIRGINIA 23228 Emergency Dial 911 – Business (804) 266-7498
AMBULANCE FOR SALE Year: 2004 Mileage: 103,682 Type: III Manufacturer: Horton Chassis Make/Model: Ford E-350 Engine: Ford 6.0L which was “bulletproofed” at 99,000 miles Drive Terrain: RWD Exterior Lighting: Red Whelen 700 and 900 Series LEDs updated in 2014, front light bar with strobe lights, rear LED turn signals and brake lights, and halogen scene and back up lights. Interior Lighting: Halogen dome lights and florescent check out lights. Siren: Whelen siren box and Air Horns Exterior Condition: Normal wear and tear for age, no major damage. Interior Condition: Normal wear and tear for age, no major damage. Additional: Stryker manual stretcher included, which has received preventative maintenance within the last year. 115 Volt AC Inverter, on board suction system, PharmGuard climate controlled medication cabinet with lock, IV fluid cooler Price: $10,000 or best offer. For additional information contact Darius Brown at (804)258-3234 or dbrown@lakesiderescue.org
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VAVRS Training Officer Submitted by Curtis Crawford, VAVRS Training Officer Happy Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas to everyone across the commonwealth. We know of all the joys that this season can bring to people. We as first-responders also know of the tough times and how when emergencies happen during the holidays, it can hit everyone deep. Some of us know what it is like to work during the holidays. Our jobs do not have time parameters. When our communities call, we all drop holiday meals, gifts, and family and answer that call. As we answer the call, remember that we can be the light during someone's darkness of life. I can remember the first code I was a part of. It was on Christmas Eve and the female was playing organ for her church service. This lady was also our school librarian and had influenced me and my partner during school. Not only did this affect our community but my crew very deeply. So this holiday, remember the reason for the season. Reach out to those less fortunate and let them know you care. When you meet someone in darkness, be a light to guide them. My prayer is that we all get to feel the joy of the holidays. As we move into a new year, we are looking forward to educating responders across the commonwealth. We hope to reach more members with our training. For us to be able to do this, we need the best instructors. This year we are having an instructor drive. If you have be certified in a discipline for a couple years and have a strong understanding of the information, then maybe its time to take the step to be and instructor. For most classes, you will need to have been certified for 2 years and have experience in the subject matter. If this is you then contact the state office or me and let us begin the process of becoming an instructor for the VAVRS. We want to be the best, but it takes you to accomplish that goal. Continue the hard work that you all do to provide safety to the communities that your serve. Thank you and Stay safe. Official
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It is with sadness that we say goodbye to our long time friend and squad member Leonard E. "Buddy" Phillips, Jr. "Buddy" was a Life Member and Past President of Forest View VRS. He was a VAVRS Life Member, Past President and had been inducted into The Virginia Life Saving and Rescue Hall of Fame.
Leonard E. “Buddy” Phillips, Jr. Buddy was born May 23, 1929 in Richmond. He graduated from Manchester High School and attended RPI (VCU). His early career was with the family business, Eastern Handle Corporation. The business was sold in the 1970’s and Buddy began another career in medical and first aid sales. Buddy was married to Francis Taylor Phillips for 51 years and had five children. Francis died in 1999 and in 2001 he married Dot. Buddy started his volunteer career of assisting people when he joined the Forest View Volunteer Rescue Squad in 1956. Three years later, in 1959, Buddy was elected president of the squad. He subsequently served four additional terms as squad president. In 1977, Buddy received Life Membership in the Forest View squad. In 1964, he was elected District III Vice President and in 1970 he was elected president of VAVRS. He also served VAVRS as Vice President, President, Secretary, Convention Chairman, and Life Membership Chairman. In the early 1970’s, prior to EMT training, Buddy worked closely with administrators at MCV to sponsor medical seminars for rescue squad personnel. In 1972 he was elected a Life Member of VAVRS and in 1995 he was elected to the VAVRS Hall of Fame. Buddy served as an instructor for the American Red Cross and the American Heart Association. For many years he served as an instructor trainer in CPR for the American Heart Association. In 1978, he taught the first VAVRS Vehicle Extrication class at Rescue College. Buddy was a member of Branches Baptist Church, Manchester Masonic Lodge, and the Manchester Shrine Club. He enjoys hunting, fishing, and showing bird dogs. Rest in Peace Buddy, your wonderful smile and personality are missed.
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Dear Rescue Ranger
Dear Rescue Ranger, How is it going? Bet you are pretty tired from the Convention. I heard a rumor that you were taking a little time off to reflect and rest. Is that true? Your Best Friend Dear Bubby, Yes, I decided to just post a few of my favorite photos instead of answering questions from my fans. I did run across a photo that I thought you might enjoy—it was the first time that we met. It was at a softball game, you were pitching softball and I was the umpire. A guy came sliding into home and severely sprained his ankle. Thinking fast we both hopped on our bikes and took him to the hospital. From that moment on we have been best buddies and I wanted to thank you for a lifelong friendship.
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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 Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads, Inc. PO Box 279 2535 Turkey Creek Road Oilville, VA 23129 (800)833-0602
(804)749-8191
Website: www.vavrs.com Email: vavrs@vavrs.com HAVING AN IN-DEPTH UNDERSTANDING OF YOUR NEEDS
and GOALS IS THE WAY WE SERVE YOU
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 84th Year of Leadership