Photos Submitted by Bobby Hill
Virginia Lifeline September / October 2016
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2015-2016 VAVRS Officers President Kim Craig Vice President Scott Davis Secretary Cecil Leach Treasurer Tarry Pribble Training Officer Greg Burton Chaplain Mike Smoot Chaplain Emeritus Page Entsminger Historian Chris Snyder Editor Gary Dalton Legal Advisor Mary Malone Parliamentarian J. C. Phillips Immediate Past President Rickey Hodge Medical Advisor James R. Dudley, MD, MBA Lobbyist Ed Rhodes
District 1 V. P. Patrick Scott District 2 V. P. Chris Flioro District 3 V. P. Warren Winner District 5 V. P. Jason Morgan District 6 V. P. Bob Wingfield District 7 V. P. Curtis Crawford District 8 V. P. Erik Brown District 9 V. P. Dwayne Stanley District 10 V. P. Wesley Melson Training Coordinator Kathy Eubank Office Assistant Cindy Bailey Bookkeeper Cynthia Babb
2015-2016 VAVRS Committee Chairs Nominating: Bruce Stratton Membership: Scott Davis By-Laws: Bruce Edwards Lifeline: Gary Dalton Conference: Ford Wirt Camporee: Ronnie Slough Finance: Tarry Pribble Scholarship: Carolyn Brand EMS Memorial: Kevin Dillard Grant: Elizabeth Papelino Web Page: Gary Dalton Legislative: Bubby Bish Nominating: Bruce Stratton
Rescue College: Wayne Myers Facility Manager: George Langford Life Membership: Ronnie Slough Rescue Hall of Fame: Page Entsminger EMS Advisory Board: Valeta Daniels EMS Advisory Board: Denene Hannon Strategic Planning: Scott Davis Recruitment and Retention: Fran Phillips Volunteer Management: Dave Tesh Volunteer Management: Walter Stephens EMS Exchange Program: Jane Laverne Information Technology: Steve Ayers
2015-2016 VAJVRS Officers President Elizabeth Pittman Vice President Adarah Williams Secretary/Treasurer Toby Akers Historian Bradley Hancock Chaplain Makayla McMahan
Advisor, Chair Alfred Smith Advisor Brandon Baugus Advisor Kim Melson Advisor Debbie Rice
For a complete list of the current courses being offered by the VAVRS go to
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2015-2016 AVAVRS Officers President - Harry Householder Vice President - Ailease Short Secretary - Marie Householder Treasurer - Fay Browning Chaplain - Linda Berkstresser Historian - Valarie Becker Parliamentarian - Nancy Winner
Immediate Past President - Fern Puckett Northeastern VP - Eddie Ann Orndoff Southcentral VP - Vicki Arnold Southeastern VP - Elsie Butler Southwestern VP - Roger Lynthlin Western VP - Janis Slough
2015-2016 AVAVRS Committee Chairs Conference: Fern Puckett Conference: Ruth Swicegood Nominating: Donna Porter Life Membership: Jean Garrett Emergency Care: John Dimino Resolutions: Nancy Winner
Deadline for the Upcoming Issues of the VIRGINIA LIFELINE 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 Editor at gdalton@vavrs.com if you need assistance in writing an article Deadline for future issues as follows: October 1, 2016 for the November/December 2016 Issue Advertising Rates: Member Squads…,…......no charge Full Page…………………..$ 275.00 Half Page………………..…$150.00 Quarter Page……………....$100.00 Business Card……………..$ 50.00
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Membership: Ailease Short Finance: Fay Browning Roll Call: Laura Booze Roll Call: Clara Craig Fundraising: Stacey Frame Fundraising: Tracey Frame
Virginia Lifeline ISSN 0279-6023 is the official bimonthly publication of the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads, Inc. Editorial material should be sent directly to the VAVRS Editor at P O Box 522 Woodstock, VA 22664 (H) 540-459-4849 (W) 540-536-2758 (FAX) 540-459-4925 (C) 540-481-0125 Email-gdalton@vavrs.com Requests for advertising rates, material specifications and deadlines should be directed to the Editor.
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Challenges—From the VAVRS President
Submitted by Kim Craig, VAVRS President Challenges….. All of our organization face the challenge of recruiting and retaining volunteers. There is so much research done on how to get and keep volunteers. Being no expert in the subject, I have done a fair amount of research. There are so many suggestions and ways to do things but what really works? If I had that answer, I wouldn’t be asking the million dollar question. First I have to ask myself why people volunteer. Is it to help others, serve their community, interested in the work, building a resume or desire of involvement with a group of friends or family? There is a sense of pride in volunteering. An important characteristic that must be recognized. Emergency Medical Services across this great nation was founded on a predominantly volunteer basis and many areas still continue with this tradition. It is a difficult job, mentally and physically but is very rewarding. I truly believe that dynamic leadership is the key to making volunteerism successful. What is dynamic leadership? What does it take to be a dynamic leader? The way we behave is observed by others. Be a positive role model. A leader must lead by example. Be the kind of leader that you want your volunteers to be. There are no part time dynamic leaders. It is a full time job. One who serves the organizational mission, vision and values instead of personal power needs. A dynamic leader has a vision, communicates in a way that connects with others, is open minded and nonjudgmental. One of the most important jobs of a leader is involvement with the volunteers by participating in their activities. Delegate duties and tasks within your organization that keeps the volunteer involved and gives them ownership. To keep volunteers they must feel like they are contributing. Know your people, know their families and know what it takes to keep them involved. So the next time you hear that volunteerism is dying within your organization look at your leadership and what is your leadership doing to motivate volunteers. “I read of a man who stood to speak at the funeral of a friend. He referred to the dates on the tombstone from the beginning…to the end. He noted that first came the date of birth and spoke the following date with tears, but he said what mattered most of all was the dash between those years.” Written by Linda Ellis from the poem “The Dash”. It was a very appropriate poem to be read at Carroll R. Hawkes funeral. He had a rewarding life of 82 years. His dash was long and full. He joined the Southside Emergency Crew in 1961. As a volunteer of the crew where he served in many roles. He was President of the VAVRS 1987-1989. Not only was he a President but he served in many offices and on many committees. He was involved with the Committee from the City of Roanoke that worked on the establishment of the Rescue Squad Museum and Hall of Fame. Not only did he serve his community but he was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He will be missed by so many. Carroll R. Hawkes lived his dash to full the fullest. Plans have been underway for the 82nd Conference in Virginia Beach, September 21st-25th. The picnic will be at Camp Pendleton on Thursday, September 22nd from 4pm-7pm. All Conference attendees are invited. It is a great time… Great food and fellowship for all. The educational opportunities that are being offered this year are phenomenal. I want to Thank Ford Wirt, Jack Jones, Mike Moore, Ronnie Slough and the committee for many years of service as the Conference Committee. It takes a lot of work and planning. It is not an easy job but they always go above and beyond by doing an exceptional job. The attendees see a seamless process. It is a fun time. A time for networking, learning, competing, a social time and a time to recognize those that have devoted their life to serving others through a memorial service. Don’t forget the Vendors!!!! (Continued on page 7)
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Please take the time to go to the exhibit hall and Thank them for their support year after year. Also visit the Exchange program booth. The providers that went to Germany will be displaying items and a video of their experiences. It has been a true privilege to have served as your VAVRS President this past year. Thank you, membership, for giving me this opportunity. It has been an eventful year for the Officers and Committees. There have been many goals met with many more to complete. The team of the Executive Committee, Appointed Officers, Committees, Juniors, Auxiliary and You the membership have had a busy year with many accomplishments. There are so many people that I would like to Thank for their continued support. One of those is Page Entsminger, Chaplain Emeritus, who is always available to give his opinion or advice. I have learned so much from him. He is person that is so much fun to know. Every conversation is no less than 30 minutes. Always keep him and his family in your thoughts and prayers as he does for us. I would appreciate your continued support as I seek reelection for the office VAVRS President. I would like to continue to serve the Association and You so that together we can continue to move forward and make a positive difference!
THE VAVRS NEEDS YOU Have you ever wanted to be an appointed officer, committee chair, or a committee member in your state organization? Do you have leadership skills, special talents and time to participate? Do you have ideas that you would like to see put into action?
Here is the opportunity you have been waiting for. The VAVRS President must appoint many officers and committee members each year and the 2016-2017 year is even more demanding as a result of bylaw changes approved at the Spring BOG meeting. Contact VAVRS President Kim Craig at KimCraig@vavrs.com and let her know the position you have the time and talent to fulfill. Page
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Does Your Crew Have a “Safe Word”? Submitted by Fran Phillips, VAVRS Recruitment & Retention Chair Recently in the news there have been numerous home invasions and emergency service personnel involved in horrendous incidents. Having a “Call Safety Seminar” with your crews could save someone’s life. We have all heard of the fire fighter in Maryland who was shot mistakenly by the homeowner. How many of you have been asked by a patient, “Tell my husband/wife that you are taking me to the hospital” and you did so not thinking that you could be in danger? Years ago I was in this situation. I was pulling extra duty. We were dispatched to a call at 3:00 a.m. for chest pains. The husband was sitting on the front steps with major chest pains. When assessed he needed immediate transport and we started our protocols. Noticing a wedding band, I asked if there were anyone in the home who needed to know that he was going to be transported to the hospital. “You might want to tell my wife” was the response. The front door was open. I rang the door bell several times. The patient told me to go inside and yell her name. I did so. We were in a very exclusive neighborhood with extremely nice homes. I was standing just inside the front door calling her name when a door opened upstairs and a woman started insulting my parentage. Also, the biggest great Dane I had ever seen was coming down the stairs looking more like a bear. I am tall for a woman, 5' 8", but this dog stuck his head under my upper arm and whined. The “lady” called us &!+$&^**### and told us to get out of her ******* house. Being of sound mind and thank God body we obeyed. Thinking back on this call we could have been in very grave danger from both the woman and dog. At a recent District 3 meeting Kathy Eubank [VAVRS Training Coordinator] brought up the safety issue of having a “safe word” for your individual crews. If your crew is working a scene and a crew member sees something that may be dangerous or just has a “gut” feeling that something is wrong how does that crew member communicate this danger to the rest of the crew? Kathy suggested that the crew member state “I am going to go, or we are going to get the “blue box” out of the unit. This statement notifies the crew they are in possible danger, the crew needs to report to the unit immediately, to evacuate the scene and call the appropriate resources. Each crew should have a word or statement that would communicate DANGER to the rest of the crew. Always be aware of your surroundings on call. BE SAFE OUT THERE!
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Yoga for Trauma Workshop Submitted by Sara Hunt PR A "Yoga for Trauma Workshop" will be held on Saturday, October 22 from 1:00-4:00 PM at Glenmore Yoga and Wellness Center, 10442 Ridgefield Parkway in Richmond, VA. The workshop is designed for those who have experienced trauma or who work with those who have experienced trauma. The instructor, Andy Kaufmann, is a military veteran of the U.S. Army. During the workshop, participants will learn about different types of trauma and learn techniques to introduce those who have experienced trauma into the yoga world, gently and safely. Cost: $50. To register or to get more info: Call 804-741-5267 or email info@glenmoreyoga.com.
Hello From Waynesboro Auxiliary Submitted by Cece McCormick and Jill Stachowski Hello from Waynesboro FAC Auxiliary. We hosted a blood drive at our building, Adam Gillespie is making arrangements for our new website, and we did a brown bag lunch for an all women's building crew for the Habitat for Humanity. We prepared a meal for the life members of the Western District at our building. We also attended the Western District meeting at Broadway. We took first place and scrapbook and third place in the EMT quiz. We did a family and friend luncheon in honor of the late Kitty Davenport with Waynesboro FAC Auxiliary Member Norma Lee Braden, she was her caretaker. We prepared food for the district meeting in Fairfield with our other Western District Auxiliaries from Lexington and Staunton-Augusta. W worked beautifully together as a team. At the end of July we did the bingo at Springdale and provided bingo prizes and refreshments. We continue to make dinner on Thursday night and breakfast for monthly drills at our building. We continue to go out once a month for auxiliary member’s birthdays. Hope all is well with everyone see everyone at Conference.
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VAVRS Chaplain Submitted by Mike Smoot, VAVRS Chaplain Conference is here and the Memorial Service is in the final stages. At the present time, I have received 46 names to be included in this years’ service. Listed below are the names received to date:
Hettie Armentrout
Nancy Arthur
Samuel Harvey Blackburg
Richard Landon Blevins
Larry G. Bowen
Col. Richard H. Brownley
Mauerice Loran Byers
Ronnie Caldwell
Campbell, Larry Edward
Sharon Karlet Campbell
James Louis Clarke
Vera C. Coffey
Connie Crotts
Oscar Thomas Davis
James Leonard Deal
Floyd Ebersole
Norrid L. Eversole
Gary Frame
Sallie S. Grubb
Thelma Hales
Brenda Johnston Hargrave
James Hargrave
Carroll Hawkes
Barbara Lynn Heflin
Charles Nicklous Isom
Brenda Jenkins
Phyllis Kasten
Charles R Lingafelt
Mel Losick
Edith Bowe Martin
Sharon K. Matherly
Jack Morgan, Sr.
Doris Elizabeth Robinson
Adam Rowe
James Edward Sanders
Elsie Sheridan
Judith (Judy) Gail Snyder
Kelly Southard
Leonard Spangler
Ann Pope Taylor
Thomas Taylor
Michael Kenneth Toellner
Rosie Mae Winfrey Tomlinson Jason Vaughan
Anthony Weber
Billy James Wilson I have enjoyed being your Chaplain for the past 2 years and hope that you will continue to keep your new Chaplain informed of any and all deaths, illnesses or any good news that needs to be passed on to the members of the VAVRS or the AVAVRS. Thank you again for your support.
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AVAVRS Nominating Committee Report Submitted by Donna S. Porter, AVAVRS Nominating Committee Chair This is a 2016 AVAVRS Slate of Officers:
President ----Harry Householder - Loudoun County Auxiliary - Northeastern District
Vice President - Ailease Short - Bensley-Bermuda Auxiliary - Southeastern Auxiliary
Treasurer - Fay Browning - Henrico Auxiliary – Southeastern District
Chaplain - Linda Berkstresser - Lexington FR Auxiliary - Western District
Historian - Valarie Becker - Glade Spring Auxiliary - Southwestern District
Reminder: If you would like to nominate someone from the floor to run for an office, read the following rules from the AVAVRS Constitution-Section 1, D. 3. Nominations from the floor shall be accepted at the first Business Meeting (Friday) and will be voted on at the final Business Meeting (Saturday). A resume of the nominee's work on local, district and state levels shall be presented in writing to the State Nominating Committee Chair prior to the first Business Meeting, with a statement of willingness to run for that office, signed by the nominee. I am mailing the Slate of Officers and their resumes to all Auxiliaries and State Officers prior to Conference. Thank you to my mentor, Ruth Swicegood, for your guidance in helping me in my first year as Nominating Committee Chair. Also, thanks to others that have helped me along the way. See you at the Conference … Take care and God bless you :)
VAVRS Nominating Committee Report Submitted by Bruce Stratton, VAVRS Nominating Committee Chair Thanks to all involved in the Interview process. Based on the ballot count of the VAVRS Nominating Committee the following names are forwarded to the VAVRS Board of Governors:
President: Vice President: Secretary: Treasurer: Training Officer: Chaplain: Official
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News from District 9 Submitted by Ruth T. Stanley, Glade Spring VLSC District 9 held it's July meeting on July 16, 2016, it was hosted by Bristol Life Saving Crew. At this meeting we held our annual Memorial Service and honored six deceased members that had passed away this past year, Leon "Bud" Stedman, of Bristol Life Saving Crew, Nina "Kay" Thomas of Glade Spring Volunteer Life Saving Crew, Virginia Copenhaver of Washington County Crewettes, Richard Blevins, and Eleanor Cox of Mt. Rogers Fire and Rescue and James Sanders of Cleveland Lifesaving Crew. At this meeting we also held our elections for the upcoming District Vice President and Alternate, Ruth Johnson was elected as the first female District 9 VP and Dwayne Stanley was elected as her alternate. On a sad note the Glade Spring Volunteer Life Saving Crew lost one of their faithful members on July 30, 2016, James "Jim Bob" Vandyke answered his last call. We look forward to seeing everyone at the conference. Page
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Chancellor Volunteer Fire & Rescue's Engine 7 Finds New Home in Southwest Virginia
Pictured with Engine 7 are Firefighter Derrick Lee (left) and Chief Leonard Bowen, both with Jasper Volunteer Fire Department.
Submitted by Sara Hunt PR Thanks to a generous title transfer of used equipment by Chancellor Volunteer Fire & Rescue (CVFR) in Spotsylvania County, Va., a fire department in Southwest Virginia can fight fires more effectively when the alarm sounds. Jasper Volunteer Fire Department in Duffield, Va., received Chancellor’s Engine 7 on June 1 and will use the engine to fight structure fires in the area. Jasper VFD's team was using an older pumper that wasn’t as efficient, and the department lacked sufficient funding to purchase a new engine. When CVFR learned that their first responder colleagues at JVFD were greatly in need of an engine with a stronger pumper, they came to the rescue! “Old Engine 7 was pretty much retired for our purposes, but it still has a lot of life left in it,” said Kevin Dillard, Administrative Chief of Chancellor Volunteer Fire & Rescue. “We are delighted that it has found a new home in the predominately rural area of Lee, Scott and Wise counties.” Chief Leonard Bowen of Jasper Volunteer Fire Department explained how Engine 7 found its way to Southwest Virginia. “One of our members was a good friend of a Chancellor member and our need for a new engine was discussed by the two men.” Following a period of information-gathering, Chancellor’s board approved the transfer of Engine 7 to JVFD. “This is the newest fire truck that we now have and it’s our only engine with a totally closed cab,” said Chief Bowen, noting that it soon will be repainted and lettered with the department patch. “We are really happy with this engine!” Page
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we s a s u Join 5 7 e t a r Celeb f o s r a e y r u O o t e Servic ity n u m Com We invite you to join us as we celebrate our 75th Annive rsary. Fun events throughout th e day for the whole family to en joy. Come by and meet your pu blic service hero’s: Buena Vist a’s Local Police, Fire and Resc ue Squad personnel. A day of Fun and Celebrat ion!
October 1,2016
Highlights g& Open House-Buildin EMS Vehicles Rides for the Kids
Ages Games & Prizes All FREE FOOD I VA State Police DU Simulator
10 am to 4 pm
BUENA VISTA RESCUE SQUAD 2307 Sycamore Street Buena Vista, VA Official
“Where there is life, there is hope”
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District 5 Submitted by Joan Smoot, District 5 Historian District 5 met on July 9, 2016 at Boydton Life Station. It was a hot and humid day and unfortunately, attendance was low. Guess everyone was on vacation. For those who were not there, you missed a terrific meal prepared by the host squad. Senator Frank Ruff came by District 5 Officers and Committee Chairs for 2016-2017 and shared his appreciation for all that the rescue squads do all over the State of Virginia. It was great of him to stop by and join us for dinner and for his comments. Frank Smith set up a great BLS competition don’t like snakes. You will have to ask some of the Southside people about this! All was well, it wasn’t a real snake! Even after all of this Southside took home the 1st place trophy and Danville placed 2nd. Not too bad for being afraid of snakes. We had six people drive for EVOC. Doug Wright and his team set up a very interesting course. Those who drove placed as follows: Frank Smith – Citizens – 1st Place; Jason Morgan- Campbell Co. – 2nd Place; Barry VanDerVeer – Pamplin – 3rd Place; Mike Johnson – Appomattox – 4th Place; Roger Vassar – Citizens/ Gladys Fire – 5th Place and Julia Ferguson - Danville – 6th Place. The Burleigh Vassar Award went to Campbell County Rescue. Each year a scholarship is presented to an individual in District 5, or if no applicants are received in District 5, it is opened throughout the State, through the Kimball Glass Scholarship. This money is raised through the 50/50 proceeds at the District Meetings throughout the year. This recipient this year was Ryan Williams of Cave Spring. Congratulation’s Ryan! Life Membership in District 5 is also awarded each year in July. It is voted on by the delegates of each Squad at the May meeting and awarded in July. Frank Smith was awarded Life Membership and was presented with the award by the Chair of the Committee, Mike Smoot. Our next meeting will be held in Concord on November 12, 2016. See all of you at the Beach!
Gerry Staples presented Jason Morgan of Campbell Co. Rescue with Burleigh Vassar Award at District 5 Meeting Official
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EVOC Winners at District 5 – Doug Wright, Coordinator Page
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Roger Vassar competing in EVOC Competition at District 5 Meeting Mike Smoot awarding Frank Smith with Life Membership to District 5
Senator Frank Ruff with District 5 VP Jason Morgan at District 5 Meeting
Danville Life Saving Crew took 2nd Place in BLS at District 5 Meeting
Southside Emergency Crew placed 1st in BLS at District 5 Meeting Page
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Colonial Beach VRS Rescue Chief Earns Regional “Excellence in EMS” Award Submitted by Sara Hunt, PR Coordinator Colonial Beach, Va. (June 20, 2016) – Wesley Melson, Rescue Chief of Colonial Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad (CBVRS), received the 2016 Regional “Excellence in EMS” Award for Outstanding Achievement in EMS from the Rappahannock Emergency Medical Services Council during a special awards ceremony recently. Melson was nominated for the award by LifeCare Medical Transports in Fredericksburg, Va., where he is Deputy Chief of Operations for the organization’s Northern Virginia division. Also, he has served as Rescue Chief of Colonial Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad since 2012, and is Vice President of District 10 of the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads (VAVRS). Over the past 22 years, Melson has built an impressive resume in the EMS field, starting with his involvement as a junior member of CBVRS and the Colonial Beach Volunteer Fire Department. He was a career firefighter/paramedic with Caroline County Fire and Rescue, where he was promoted to Lieutenant after two years. For 12 years, he served in the Emergency Communications Center of Stafford County. Under his leadership at CBVRS, the organization was awarded the Virginia Governor’s Award as the Outstanding EMS Agency in the state for 2011. A graduate of the University of Virginia’s Institute and the VAVRS Leadership Summit, he holds a number of teaching and training certifications to ensure that his EMS colleagues are following the established guidelines and protocols. Some highlights of his extensive work as an instructor include teaching professionally at the Rappahannock Criminal Justice Academy and the FBI Academy at Quantico, Va. Calling Melson “a true leader,” the nomination from LifeCare Medical Transports goes on to say: “As a mentor to so many providers over the years in both Colonial Beach and Caroline County, Wesley has provided calm, direct guidance during a plethora of stressful, long-distance transports to the closest area hospital. It is both an honor and privilege to work with an EMS provider, educator and leader of Wesley Melson’s caliber.” “I am very honored and humbled to receive this prestigious honor and to stand alongside the other EMS award winners at the ceremony,” said Melson, whose wife, parents and children are active members of CBVRS. “I would like to thank my family and my colleagues at Colonial Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad and LifeCare Medical Transports for their ongoing support of my career in emergency medical services.”
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Wesley Melson (left), Rescue Chief of Colonial Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad, receives the 2016 "Excellence in EMS" award from Kevin Dillard, President of Rappahannock EMS Council. Page
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From the Legislative Attic Submitted by Ed Rhodes The “Real” Attic
As we begin to look forward to the upcoming convention in September, we cannot help remember those who will not be with us this year. I for one will miss seeing Carroll Hawkes and his extended cab, extended body pickup truck in the parking garage at the headquarters hotel. Carol and I did attend his funeral on July 30th in Colonial Heights. Though I missed the last issue of the Virginia Lifeline, at that time of year there is really very little to report on. This issue there is more than very little.
On June 9th and 13th I attended two bill signings resulting from actions by the 2016 General Assembly session. The first one was the Line of Duty Act legislation that has been ongoing for a couple of years. Scott Davis, VP and Warren Winner, District 3 VP also attended. On June 13th, the EMS Compact legislation was signed by the Governor. Thanks go to Kevin Dillard and Warren Winner from VAVRS for their attendance.
There have been two stakeholder meetings at the VAVRS office concerning fire and EMS funding issues and discussion of future legislation. Thanks go to Kathy and Cyndi for their assistance in arranging the training room.
I attended a meeting regarding mental health in the fire service.
The month of August is already looking like a very busy month with meetings and some travel. Bills for the 2017 session have already begun to be introduced, but so far nothing relating to EMS, but I am sure that somewhere, someone has one they are working on. Line of Duty will still be worked on in the coming months by the stakeholders and also retirement issues in the form of a commission chaired by the Speaker of the House. Towards the end of July, I attended a meeting concerning mental health in the fire service. Though the title sounds like it is only fire service oriented, it is not. Bubby Bish has been asked to serve on a workgroup representing the VAVRS. The first week in August concludes with the EMS Advisory Board meetings and committee meetings. The Rules and Regulations committee will begin work on their review of the EMS Regulations. They will also be reviewing the statewide EMS plan. The Legislative and Planning Committee will also be reviewing the plan. Additional meetings of the Rules Committee will be scheduled for the future, besides at the advisory board meetings. The remainder of August will be consisting of stakeholder legislative meetings, retirement commission, Airbnb study, and finally a presentation by the Governor on the status of the budget. September will slow down to some extent leading up to convention this year. Legislation is already being introduced for the 2017 session and house members are limited to the number of bills they can introduce, 15 each which equals 1,500 bills. The Senate is not limited, so there will probably be about 2,000 plus bills. We will see everyone at convention the end of September and until then, have a good remaining summer and early fall.
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HAVING AN IN-DEPTH UNDERSTANDING OF YOUR NEEDS AND GOALS IS THE WAY WE SERVE YOU MAKE YOUR PLANS TO JOIN US AT THE ANNUAL VAVRS CONFERENCE SEPTEMBER 22-25, 2016 IN VIRGINIA BEACH 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.
Make Your Plans to Join Us at the Annual VAVRS Conference September 22-25, 2015 in Virginia Beach
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For a complete list of all of the educational opportunities being held during the 2016 VAVRS Conference go to www.vavrs.com Official
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LifeCare Helps “Paint Downtown Fredericksburg Purple” for Alzheimer’s Awareness Submitted by Sue Connors, Director, Business Development-LifeCare Medical Transports Fredericksburg took on a totally new hue on Saturday, July 23, 2016 as local merchants displayed purple balloons, wreaths, ribbons and more to help raise awareness about Alzheimer’s. The Fredericksburg Alzheimer’s Development Committee, a local chapter of the Greater Richmond Alzheimer’s Association, hosted the event that they called, “Paint Downtown FXBG Purple.” LifeCare Medical Transports helped add color to the event with a special ambulance intended to support Alzheimer’s awareness. From 10:00am until 2:00pm, shoppers in downtown Fredericksburg were encouraged to visit merchants who displayed purple decorations in and outside of their storefronts. Members of the Fredericksburg Alzheimer’s Development Committee walked throughout the streets of the city sharing information about the disease with local shoppers. LifeCare Medical Transports participated in the event by driving its purple “Alzheimer’s Awareness” ambulance through the streets of Fredericksburg that morning … stopping to visit participating merchants. Several merchants and Alzheimer’s Committee members posed for pictures with the purple ambulance (nicknamed “Barney”). One committee member commented that “it looked like a big billboard for Alzheimer’s Awareness riding around through the town.” LifeCare provides medical transports throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia to many geriatric patients … many of whom are dealing with some sort of dementia. LifeCare currently has two “Alzheimer’s Awareness” ambulances in its fleet, as well as two pink “Breast Cancer Awareness” ambulances and a red “Kidney” ambulance for Kidney Failure/Dialysis Awareness. “Community Partnership is one of our core values here at LifeCare Medical Transports,” shared Kevin Dillard, President/CEO of LifeCare. “We welcome opportunities for involvement in great causes such as Alzheimer’s Awareness, and look forward to participating in future events.”
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Danville Life Saving Crew 71st Annual Installation Banquet Submitted by Joan Smoot, District 5 Historian Danville Life Saving Crew held their 71st Annual Installation Banquet on June 24th, 2016 at the Danville Golf Club. Scott Eanes, Life Member of Danville Life Saving Crew, was Master of Ceremonies. The evening was filled with fun, food and wonderful fellowship among members and guests. Chief Robbie Woodall gave a report outlining the goals that had been met since last year. New equipment had been purchased, new protocols with teams running calls had been set up and implemented and renovations to the Training Center had begun to increase the size for additional training rooms. Chief Woodall also Darlene Hylton presented Polly Greer Service Award to Wanda Greeson commented on the increasing number of calls that so many squads consider “frivolous”, and what is being done to curb some of these calls, so that when real emergencies come in, they can be answered promptly and in a timely manner. He stated this is a problem that all squads are facing across the State and not just in Danville. Chief Woodall also outlined goals for the coming year. More training, setting up more extensive teams for running calls and expecting just as much from the officers as the members. He stated that you can’t expect more from your members than you do yourself.
Robbie Woodall presenting Chief’s Award to John McKinney
Officers installed for the coming year were installed by Mike Smoot, VAVRS Chaplain. Those installed were: Chief-Robbie Woodall; Deputy Chief- Tim Holman; Ass’t Deputy Chiefs-W. Caldwell & Keister Whitt; Captain of Communications-Chris Elliott; Captain of R&R-Sara Blair; Captain of Training-Brian Conner; (Continued on page 27)
Glenna Caldwell - 10 Years of Service (Robbie Woodall and Tim Holman) Official
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John Geyer – 10 years of Service (Robbie Woodall and Tim Holman presenting) Page
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Captain of Maintenance-Nicky Sapounakes; Captain of Building/Grounds-Bobby Pleasant; Captain of Supply-David Rodgers; Captain of Oxygen-Mike Brandon; Secretary-John Geyer; Business Manager-Bill Hankins; Chaplain-Odell Tate; and BOG Rep.-John McKinney. Auxiliary Officers were installed by Joan Smoot, AVAVRS Life Member and Past President were: President-Darlene Hylton; Vice President-Wanda Greeson; Secretary-Christy Woodall; Treasurer-Lisa Pleasant and Chaplain-Brenda Smith. Darlene Hylton presented Wanda Greeson with the Polly Greer Service Award for her service to the Auxiliary. Numerous awards were presented at the banquet. Members recognized for 10 years or more of service were: Bobby Pleasant – 15 years of Service (Robbie Woodall & Tim Holman)
Glenna Caldwell – 10 years John Geyer – 10 years David Beach – 25 years Scott Campbell – 25 years Brian Alderson – 30 years James Mullins – 35 years Johnny Mills – 35 years Brian Wilson – 35 years Chief Woodall presented John McKinney with this year’s Chief’s Award. This award is presented to a regular member of the crew who in the past year has served above and beyond the requirements of regular membership in the Squad. This award is selected annually by the Chief. Top Runner Awards: Tyler McCabe
154 calls – 10th Place
Nick Sapounakes, Jr.
156 calls – 9th Place
Robbie Woodall
167 calls – 8th Place
John Sherrill
168 calls – 7th Place
Nick Sapounakes, Sr.
190 calls – 6th Place
Brittany Rowland
219 calls – 5th Place
John Hazelwood
222 calls – 4th Place
Brian Hall
254 calls – 3rd Place
Mike Brandon
303 calls – 2nd Place
Jason White
343 calls – 1st Place
The Gerald Bostic Award (Jr. Member) was awarded to Tyler Campbell. This award is presented to a junior member who has gone above the call of duty as a member of the junior program academically, and in community involvement.
Scott Campbell – 25 years of Service (Robbie Woodall & Tim Holman)
Brian Alderson – 30 years of Service (Robbie Woodall & Tim Holman)
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The James E. Greer New Member of the Year Award is chosen by the candidate committee. It is awarded to the member who had gone the extra distance during their probation period. This year’s recipient was April Ayers. The Ovid Hogan Basic Life Support Award was won by Jason White. This award is voted by the crew members for the member who has performed outstanding work in their training and their performance of medical and patient care. The Leonard Coon Advance Life Support Award is an award presented to a member who has performed outstanding work in their training and their performance of medical and patient care. This year’s recipient was Nancy Adams.
Top Runner – 1st Place – Jason White – 343 Calls
Most, if not all, remember Herbert House. Herbert was well known for teaching CPR and stressing education. This award recognizes one individual who has shown excellence in EMS education for the previous twelve months. The recipient may be a crew member of other individual who has provided training to the members of the crew. This year’s winner was Brian Alderson.
The highest award that can be bestowed on a Danville Life Saving Crew Member is the “Raymond C. McNeely Lifetime Achievement Award”. This award is given to a crew member who James E. Greer Award – April Ayers has served as an (Presented by Penny Sapounakes) active member of the crew for a minimum of seven years. This member has served their community in a way that commands respect and honor from their peers. This winner of this award has accomplished task that are comparable to those of past winners and the winner of this award is nominated and
James Mullins – 35 years of service (Robbie Woodall and Tim Holman)
Brian Wilson – 35 years of service (Robbie Woodall and Tim Holman)
Gerald Bostic Award – Tyler Campbell (Presented by Mike Brandon) (Continued on page 29)
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chosen by their peers within the organization. This year’s Raymond C. McNeely Award recipient is Chris Elliott. The Danville Life Saving Crew is an all-volunteer agency serving approximately 50,000 people. Their budget comes from the donations and memorials received from the public they serve and organizations in the community. Their annual report shows that they continue to answer approximately 5,000 calls per year with over 100 volunteers operating from their 3 locations. As you can see, Danville Life Saving Crew is going, growing and setting goals and not stopping. Can your Squad say the same? Ovid Hogan BLS Award to Jason White (presented by Ben Crozier)
Herbert P. House Award presented to Brian Alderson (L) by Jim Mullins (R) Leonard Coon ALS Award presented by Crystal Harbour to Nancy Adams
Raymond C. McNeely Award presented to Chris Elliott (R) by Gary Ryan (L) Page
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Dear Rescue Ranger
invented the electric light bulb, dear. Now turn off that light and get to bed!"
Dear Rescue Ranger, My mother has always said, “If you can’t say something nice about someone then don’t say anything.” So, I want to thank you for sharing your vast knowledge over the past 20 years through your column. An admirer in Richmond Dear Ed, My mother used that same quote many, many times as well as “Never judge a book by its cover.” She also told me some things other mothers have said over the years:
your jacket, then take your hand out of there and prove it!"
Also, Ed, I have a few questions for you:
ABRAHAM LINCOLN'S MOTHER: "Again with the stovepipe hat, Abe? Can't you just wear a baseball cap like the other kids?"
If a man is standing in the middle of the forest speaking and there is no woman around to hear him, is he still wrong?
BARNEY'S MOTHER: "I realize strained plums are your favorite, Barney, but you're starting to look a little purple!"
If a deaf person swears in sign language, does his mother wash his hands with soap?
MARY'S MOTHER: "I'm not upset the your lamb followed you to school, Mary, but I would like to know how he got a better grade than you!"
Why can't they use the material from the 'little black box' for the entire plane?
Isn't it a bit unnerving that doctors call what they do "practice?"
Where do forest rangers go to "get away from it all?"
Why isn't there mouseflavored cat food?
Why do they lock gas station bathrooms? Are they afraid someone will clean them?
If a turtle doesn't have a shell, is he homeless or naked?
Why don't sheep shrink when it rains?
How do they get the deer to cross at that yellow road sign?
What was the best thing before sliced bread?
PAUL REVERE'S MOTHER: "I don't care where you think you have to go, young man. Midnight is past your curfew!" MONA LISA'S MOTHER: "After all that money you father and I spent on braces, Mona, that's the biggest smile you can give us?'"
GOLDILOCK'S MOTHER: "I've got a bill here for a busted chair from the bear family. You know anything about this Goldie?"
HUMPTY DUMPTY'S MOTHER: "Humpty, If I've told you once, I've told you a hundred times not to sit on the wall. But would you listen to me? Noooo!" COLUMBUS'S MOTHER: "I don't care what you've discovered Christopher, you could have written!"
GEORGE WASHINGTON'S MOTHER: "The next time I catch you throwing money across the Potomac, you can kiss your allowance good-bye!"
MICHAELANGELO'S MOTHER: " Mike, can't you paint on walls like other children? Do you have any idea how hard it is to get that stuff off the ceiling?"
JONAH'S MOTHER: "That's a nice story, but now tell me where you've really been for the past 3 days!"
NAPOLEON'S MOTHER: "All right Napoleon. If you're not hiding your report card inside
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LITTLE MISS MUFFET'S MOTHER: "Well, all I've got to say is if you don't get off your tuffet and start cleaning your room, there'll be a lot more spiders around here!" ALBERT EINSTEIN'S MOTHER: "But, Albert, it's your senior picture. Can't you do something about your hair? Styling gel, mousse, something....?"
BABE RUTH'S MOTHER: "Babe, How many times have I told you--quit playing baseball in the house! that's the third window you've broken this week!"
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BATMAN'S MOTHER: "It's a nice car, Bruce, but do you realize how much the insurance will be!"
And finally... THOMAS EDISON'S MOTHER: "Of course I'm proud that you the
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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
More Faces in VA Beach EMS with photos submitted by Bobby Hill