Oklahoma Firefighter April 2019

April 2019 Volume 36, Issue 3

Official publication of the Oklahoma State Firefighters Association

ORFA OFFERINGS Past Presidents Talk Retirement Pages 14-15

1994-E. Ledbetter

1996-S. Oruch

1998-B. Flaming

May 2 - 5 , 2019

1999-T. Ford

at Tulsa Fire Training Grounds & Tulsa Community College

2000-L. Bogges

2001-C. Lewis

2002-H.R. Stoops

2004-H. Starbuck

100+ Classes Spanning 4 Days FREE for First Responders FOR A FULL LIST OF CLASSES AND TO REGISTER: www.osfa.info

2007-T.D. Cagle

2008-B. Shepherd

2010-M. Bower

2011-R. Rose

2012-P. Gallahar

http://my.osufst.org/conferences/793?preSelect=72995 More Info on Page 12

2013-B. Allen

ChangeService ServiceRequested Requested Change

OKLAHOMA STATE STATE FIREFIGHTERS FIREFIGHTERS ASSOCIATION ASSOCIATION OKLAHOMA 2716 N.E. N.E. 50th 50th St. St. 2716 Oklahoma City, City, OK OK 73111 73111 Oklahoma

2009-P. Brinegar

2006-D. Bowman

2005-M. Billingsley

•

2014-J. Carner

I N S I D E

2015-T. Smith

2016-J.A. Soos

2017-P. Ostrander

2018-D. Cramer

2019 OSFA Convention Details ........................................................................................4 OSFA Executive Board Members’ Comments............................................................. 5-6 OSFA Executive Director’s Report - Steve Lumry ...........................................................7 OSFA Women’s Auxiliary Report -Marti Carpenter .......................................................8 Firefighter Near-Miss Report - Greg Lindsay ............................................................... 10 Museum News - Gene Brown .........................................................................................13 ORFA Report - President Juan Rodriguez .................................................................... 15 House Passes Firefighter Bills ................................................................................ 18-19 Chaplain’s Corner - Kim Hayes ...................................................................................... 19 Executive Board Meeting Highlights ............................................................................. 24 Oklahoma Fire Spotlight -- Ft. Towson FD ................................................................... 26

Non-Profit Org. Org. Non-Profit U.S. Postage Postage U.S. PAID PAID Okla. City, OK OK Okla.

City, Permit No. No. 570 570 Permit

2April 2019Oklahoma Firefighter

Oklahoma FirefighterApril 20193

klahoma Firefighter

3rd ANNUAL

April 2019

Volume 36 — Issue 3

Official Publication of the Oklahoma State Firefighters Association 2716 N.E. 50th Street Oklahoma City, OK 73111 (405) 424-1452 • 1-800-308-5336 Fax (405) 424-1032 osfa@osfa.info • www.osfa.info Published monthly by and for members of the Oklahoma State Firefighters Association to educate its membership, to improve the fire service, and to enhance the value and dignity of their profession, either paid or volunteer.

Editor in Chief Steve Lumry stevel@osfa.info

Managing Editor Penelope Soldan penelopes@osfa.info

Letters to the Editor: Oklahoma Firefighter encourages the

WHEN: JUNE 15TH 12-4PM WHERE: ROUTE 66 - STROUD OK

FIRETRUCK SHOW COMBAT CHALLENGE

open exchange of ideas, opinions and concerns among members of the fire service community.

Letters to the Editor should: concentrate on issues, not personalities; be typed; be signed by the writer and include writer’s telephone number; and be mailed (or emailed) to the Oklahoma State Firefighters Association: 2716 N.E. 50th St., Oklahoma City, OK, 73111 (osfa@osfa.info).

Oklahoma Firefighter reserves the right to publish, edit and condense letters according to space limitations and the editor’s judgement. Great care will be taken to ensure the message in the letter is not altered. Anonymous letters will not be published.

3rd ANNUAL

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WHEN: JUNE 15TH 12-4PM For Details orADAM Entry Information CONTACT CHACE 405.334.1059 WHERE: ROUTE 66 STROUD OK Contact Adam Chace

FOR DETAILS OR ENTRY INFORMATION 405.334.1059

Get your Oklahoma Firefighter newspaper the minute it goes to press!

Read it on your smart phone, laptop or other digital device!

It’s an easy and convenient way to stay on top of what’s happening in your Association!

Plus, every page in the digital newspaper is in color!

FIRETRUCK SHOW COMBAT CHALLENGE ADvertisers’ INDEX

And the digital version also features videos!

Casco Industries ............... 28

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Simply call (405-424-1452) or email the OSFA office (osfa@osfa.info) and request digital editions!

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SPO

4April 2019Oklahoma Firefighter

125th Annual OSFA CONVENTION June 5-8 at Ponca City Convention Center

DUES: Membership in the Oklahoma State Firefighters Association will be forfeited if dues are not paid by May 7.

2019 OSFA Convention Deadlines

CREDENTIALS: Delegate registration must be on the credentials form with proper signature. Pre-registration may be mailed at any time, but all credentials are due in the OSFA office no later than May 27.

APRIL 5: LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTIONS DUE

REGISTRATION: Registration cost for delegates and members is $60.

Registration cost for spouses and guests is $50.

The OSFA encourages all members to attend convention, whether as a delegate or as an interested member.

Everyone should pre-register, including spouses and guests.

This allows the OSFA office to have your name tag pre-typed so the registration lines can move more quickly. You do not need to pre-pay to preregister. You can also call the OSFA office to register members and guests.

APRIL 22: NEW EMPLOYEES COUNT IF DUES PAID

APRIL 5: CONSTITUTIONAL RESOLUTIONS DUE APRIL 22: DEPARTMENT DELEGATE ELECTIONS MAY 7:

MEMBERSHIP FORFEITED

MAY 27: CREDENTIALS DUE

ACCOMMODATIONS: Host hotels are Fairfield Inn and LaQuinta Inn. Rooms are $79 per night at both, and they are next door to each other.

Fairfield Inn is located at 3405 N. 14th St., Ponca City, OK 74601. The hotel’s phone number is 580-765-3000. Mention “125th OSFA Convention.”

LaQuinta Inn is located at 3414 N. 14th St., Ponca City, OK 74601. The hotel’s phone number is 580-749-5515.

ATTENTION ALL CANDIDATES FOR THIRD VICE PRESIDENT

MEETINGS: Daily meetings will be held at the Ponca City Convention Center (400 E. Central, Ponca City OK 74601). It is located behind the Central Fire Station.

Oklahoma Firefighter will give approximately 1/4 page of free space to all candidates running for Third Vice President of the OSFA.

ACTIVITIES: Golf Tournament is Wednesday, June 5, at Wentz Memorial Golf Course (2928 La Cann Dr., Ponca City, OK 74604). Cost is $75 per person or $300 per team. Tee times at 7:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Bass Fishing Tournament is Wednesday, May 29, at Grand Lake’s Wolf Creek. Poker Run is Friday, June 7. The Shooting Competiition is TBA.

Deadline for submitting information and/or photos is April 15.

MDA PICNIC: The Muscular Dystrophy Association will host the picnic on Thursday, June 6, beginning at 5:30 p.m at Lake Ponca Park (1150 La Cann

Contact Oklahoma Firefighter editor Penelope Soldan via email (penelopes@osfa.info) to take advantage of this offer.

MEMORIAL SERVICE: To honor those members who have passed since our last convention, a Memorial Service will be held Thursday, June 6, at 10 a.m. at Ponca City Convention Center.

If a family member is unable to attend, the OSFA asks that someone from their area pick up the certificate and deliver it to the department or family.

DOOR PRIZES: Each department is asked to bring three door prizes.

Please indicate who the door prizes are from and turn them in at the registration table. Grand door prizes will be given away at the banquet, and you must be present to win.

BANQUET/DANCE: Scheduled for Friday, June 7, at Osage Casino (516 E. Grand). Transportation provided from hotel.

BUSINESS MEETING: Reports from the State Fire Marshal, the Firefighters Pension and Retirement System and the OSFA Committees will be presented. Written reports also will be made available from some of the different organizations in the fire service.

You will select the OSFA Third Vice President, who will represent you and serve on the State Pension Board for the next five years.

There will be detailed discussions and voting on legislative and constitutional resolutions that will affect the fire service over the next few years.

Questions? Call OSFA at 405-424-1452 or 1-800-308-5336.

24th Annual OSFA Convention Bass Tourney

125th Annual OSFA Convention Golf Tourney

Wednesday, June 5 at Wentz Memorial Golf Course

2928 La Cann Dr., Ponca City, OK 74604

Entry Fee: $75 Per Player, $300 Per Team Four Man Scramble • Shotgun Start • 7:30 a.m. or 1 p.m. Tee Times

Cost includes Green Fees, Cart and Refreshments - Lunch will be served at the Golf Course

For more information, call Jerry Burtner at 580-749-0234

Dr). Transportation provided. This is MDA’s way of showing appreciation to firefighters around the state for all they do for MDA.

PLEASE Bring Door Prizes!

Golf Hole Sponsor

$100 per hole Name/Company__________________

Team Captain____________________________________________________ Phone______________

Wednesday, May 29 at Grand Lake’s Wolf Creek

Begins at 6:30 a.m. (weigh in at 3 p.m.)

For more information, call Gary Whitehead at 918-695-1812 or John McClelland at 580-716-5347

Entry Fee: $100 Per Boat (2 participants - 1 must be a Firefighter)

Includes Big Bass Contest & meal at Weigh-In

Also includes T-shirt with Paid Entry Postmarked by May 6, 2019 Event Coordinator will be at ramp from 5:00 to 6:30 a.m. the day of event for last-minute registrations (cash only)

Limit: 4 bass - 14” minimum Payout: Out of 100% of fees collected Cash and Prizes to be given after weigh-in For complete 2019 OSFA Convention Bass Fishing Rules, go to www.osfa.info

Department_____________________________ Email________________________________________

Name 1_____________________________________________________________________________

Tee Time Preference (First Paid Get Preference)

Phone____________________ Work Phone____________________Shirt Size____________________

______7:30 a.m.

________1 p.m.

Player 1________________________________Email________________________________________

Department_______________________________________Email_______________________________

Player 2________________________________Email________________________________________

Name 2_____________________________________________________________________________

Player 3________________________________Email________________________________________

Phone____________________ Work Phone____________________Shirt Size____________________

Player 4________________________________Email________________________________________

Department_______________________________________Email_______________________________

Mail to: OSFA Golf Tourney Make checks payable to: OSFA 2019 Golf Tourney 2716 NE 50th Entries must be postmarked no later than May 27 OKC, OK 73111 Entry fee enclosed____________________________

Register online at www.osfa.info

Entry fee enclosed____________________________ Make checks payable to: OSFA 2019 Bass Tourney

Mail to: OSFA Bass Tourney 2716 NE 50th OKC, OK 73111

Register online at www.osfa.info

Oklahoma FirefighterApril 20195

Pro Tem Creates Pension Working Group in Senate

PREsident n

Dereck Cassady Ponca City FD IAFFLocal2479@ yahoo.com • 580-761-5338

Planning for the 125th Annual OSFA Convention is almost complete.

Remember, the dates are June 5-8 in Ponca City. The Bass Tournament will be on Grand Lake again this year, and it is a week before convention (May 29).

We are finalizing the details on the shooting competition and the Poker Run. We are going to do some things a little different, but it should be for the better.

The hotels are filling up quick, and I urge everyone to get their rooms booked now. As I’ve said the last few months, the rodeo is also in town the week of convention, so the good hotels are going to sell out. The overflow hotel is Comfort Inn. Registration is open for the 2019 State Fire School being held May 2-5 in Tulsa. I want all of you to look at the schedule and see what classes are being offered that you can use in your own department.

The Educational Advisory Committee has done a great job in the selection of classes being offered. This will be some of the best training you can get anywhere, and the price is FREE. Go to the OSFA website for a link to registration.

As most of you probably know, our No. 1 legislative priority this year is a COLA for the retirees. House Bill 2304 has passed out of the House and has been sent to the Senate. We are working the Senate to get this bill heard in committee and sent to the full Senate to be voted on.

As this bill and others go through the legislative process, there will be times we ask you to contact your legislator. Please don’t blow it off, because everything we do could affect you today or in the future.

Get politically involved, find your legislator when he/she is home on the weekend and get to know them. That relationship could create the one vote we need for a bill to pass. STAY SAFE!

2018-19 OSFA Executive Board PRESIDENT: Dereck Cassady • 580-761-5338 IAFFLocal2479@yahoo.com

1ST VICE PRESIDENT: Mike Kelley • 405-623-4388 mkelley@local157.org

2ND VICE PRESIDENT: Eric Harlow • 405-520-2893 ericharlow200@gmail.com

3RD VICE PRESIDENT: Cliff Davidson • 580-554-1886 davidsoncliff@yahoo.com

PAST PRESIDENT: Matt Lay • 918-760-9065 matthewlay@icloud.com

www.osfa.info 405-424-1452 • 1-800-308-5336

Roberts Testing Pump Testing in your Community 405-834-5975 • groberts1960@gmail.com

President Pro Tempore Greg Treat appointed seven senators on March 25 to serve on a pension working group to study long-term pension reform as well as make recommendations to his office on pending pension reform legislation.

Pending in the Senate is a House bill that would provide a 4% cost of living adjustment (COLA) to retired public employees at a price tag of $850 million to the retirement systems.

Pro Tem Treat said the working group would review that legislation, as well as study how to protect and further the gains made to improve the financial stability of state pension funds.

OSFA Executive Director Steve Lumry said, “We commend Pro Tem Treat on recognizing and taking affirmative action to ensure the viability of the state’s pension systems while also remembering our retirees to whom the pension systems are supposed to provide a meaningful existence.”

OSFA President Dereck Cassady said, “This COLA will cost the Firefighters Pension System only about 1% and is expected to be quickly absorbed by the growth of the system.”

Pro Tem Treat gave the working group an April 4 deadline, one week before the April 11 committee deadline, to report recommendations to his office on pending pension legislation.

The members of the pension working group are: Senator Tom Dugger, R-Stillwater; Senator John Michael Montgomery, R-Lawton; Senator Lonnie Paxton, R-Tuttle; Senator Dewayne Pemberton, R-Muskogee; Senator Marty Quinn, R-Claremore; Senator Jason Smalley, R-Stroud; and Senator Gary Stanislawski, R-Tulsa.

1st vice PresidenT n

Mike Kelley

OKC FD

mkelley@local157.org • 405-623-4338 Our COLA bill overwhelmingly passed the House and, as I write this article, it is awaiting a hearing in the Senate.

A COLA is still our No. 1 legislative priority. Talking points have been developed by your staff and the time is now to reach out to your Senators.

It is important that your elected officials hear from you on this issue that is vitally important to our membership.

Make plans now to attend your OSFA State Fire School May 2-5 in Tulsa. Our school has become one of the premiere training events in the country and is available at no cost to participants.

The online class registration is live now at https://my.osufst.org/ conferences/793?preSelect=72995 . Or simply go to www.osfa.info and click on the link under 2019 OSFA State Fire School.

The Educational Advisory Committee has put in a great deal of time and effort to assure that there are classes of value offered for everyone. I challenge each of you to take advantage of this great training that is provided by your OSFA. I recently attended a training class that was an overview on recent UL studies. The science opened my eyes to the fact that we have done some things in my career that goes against science.

A caution, if you think that regardless of how long you’ve been a firefighter and irrespective of rank that you know it all and have all the answers, do us all a favor and find another career. I was raised during an era that if you asked why? The response was “because I said so” and because of the way I was raised that was an acceptable answer.

As I grow older, the response that really makes me bristle is “well, that’s the way we’ve always done it”. Now don’t get me wrong, if that statement is followed with, we’ve tried several ways and this is the best we’ve found that’s a little easier to accept. However, “that’s the way we’ve always done it” shouldn’t be an acceptable answer.

I’ve heard several baby boomers decry the younger generations of firefighters because they ask “why”? Well, I’ve had the privilege of working with and around a lot of younger firefighters and I have found that when they understand the why, they will move heaven and earth to accomplish the task.

I realize that we serve in para military organizations. Nevertheless in my opinion, rank is only a small portion of respect owed. Being willing to explain why a decision was made and acknowledging that our greatest resource is not our apparatus, tools and equipment but a thinking firefighter will garner the respect of those you have the honor of serving with.

So, take advantage of classes that like those that are offered at Fire School. Be a thinking firefighter and understand why you do what you do. The first reason is to be the best we can be for the citizens we serve and the brothers and sisters that we serve with!

Stay safe brothers and sisters!

6April 2019Oklahoma Firefighter

2nd vice PresidenT Eric Harlow

n

Guthrie FD

ericharlow200@gmail.com • 405-520-2893

Greetings Okla-

homa Firefighters!

It finally seems like spring is here to stay. We’ve been fortunate to have had a greatly-reduced spring wildfire season this year. I know we all are thankful for the break!

The legislature is in full swing, and so far the COLA bill for our retirees looks good!

It was amended on the floor of the House with an increase to 4% and passed 97-3. We now wait for the bill to be heard on the Senate side.

This will provide our retirees, along with other systems’ retirees, a 4% Cost of Living Adjustment. This will be the first raise they’ve received in 11 years!

It is way overdue and greatly needed. It’s sad to hear that we have retirees struggling to even pay their health insurance.

This was the Executive Board’s No. 1 goal this session and so far, we are making great progress.

The Educational Advisory Committee is hard at work wrapping up final plans for this year’s John F. Futhey II State Fire School to be held May 2-5 at Tulsa Community College’s North Campus and the Tulsa Fire Department Training Center.

There is a huge variety of classes being offered, with many already filling up. We are bringing in instructors from all over the country to offer our firefighters training in several different areas.

This training is being brought to you for FREE! How can you beat that?

A huge thanks to all of our sponsors that continue to make this school the premier fire training event for our region of the country.

I also want to extend an extra big THANK YOU to both Tulsa Fire Department and Tulsa Community College for their continued cooperation in hosting the school every year. We could not put this event on without the great assistance from all of our partners.

Registration is available online at www. osufst.org, and a link can be found on the OSFA website at www.osfa.info.

Spread the word and hurry over to the website and get signed up. I hope to see you there!

If you haven’t made your plans yet, mark your calendars for the 125th Annual OSFA Convention June 5-8 in Ponca City.

Hotels are starting to fill up already, so make your reservations soon.

Information on the convention and all of the associated events is available on the OSFA website, so go check it out. I know President Cassady and crew will have a great event lined out for us.

Administrative Director Sheri Nickel is continuing her hard work on the Firefighter 1 training provided by the SAFER Grant.

There are numerous success stories, and the online/hybrid Firefighter 1 program being provided by OSU FST has met with great results and fanfare.

If you or someone on your department is interested in this awesome program, please contact Sheri at the OSFA office for more information.

In closing, keep an eye on the Capitol as

our legislators hurry to get bills heard.

We may need you all to call on your Representatives and Senators in the event something comes up as the session wraps up.

Thank you for all you do! Stay safe out there and be weather aware!

3rd vice PresidenT n

Cliff Davidson

Ringwood FD

davidsoncliff@yahoo.com • Well, another month has rolled by and it seems life is just flying by faster each year. I guess that’s what happens when you are busy or maybe getting older.

The OSFA has been working diligently at the Capitol to get the bills through the legislative process. I encourage everyone to talk to their Senator by phone, email or in person. It will take all of us as members to get the COLA bill through the Senate.

This is a busy time of the year for the OSFA with all the work at Capitol, the

580-554-1886

OFCA Conference the first of April, the CFSI Symposium and the NVFC Spring Meeting at the end of April.

Then May 2-5 is the OSFA State Fire School. If you have never been, I encourage you to try to attend. It is a great opportunity for FREE training.

June 5 is the 38th annual ORFA Convention in Ponca City.

And the 125th annual OSFA Convention is June 5-8, also in Ponca City.

I look forward to seeing many of you at these events!

Everyone stay safe.

Past PREsident n

Matt Lay

Tulsa FD

matthewlay@icloud.com 918-760-9065 On March 16, Heaven gained a hero …

Retired Tulsa Firefighter Mark Meyer passed from this earthly life after bravely battling cancer for the last seven years. To say that Mark was an inspiration is to vastly understate his impact upon all who knew him.

Upon his diagnosis, he poured his heart into leaving a legacy through the charity he founded now known as Hydrants of Hope.

He was moved to do something to help the families of children battling cancer.

His charity is supported by his fellow firefighters in every way -from pins and apparel to golf tournaments to the annual IAFF Local 176 Stair Climb to the Tulsa Metro Women on Fire Calendar.

More than $50,000 has been raised and donated through his lasting labor of love. Rest easy Brother, we’ll take it from here…

Donations may be made at HydrantsOfHope.com.

As this year gets rolling, it seems so much has changed but so much remains the same.

The OSFA continues the business of our state’s firefighters from the field to Capitol Hill. But there is change on the horizon.

In just the first five weeks of the legislative session, Governor Stitt and the leadership of the House and Senate managed to alter the very face of state government in Oklahoma. They realigned the boards and commissions of the largest five agencies and gave the Governor the power to hire and fire their directors.

This is a dramatic about-face in the more than century old executive branch that was always limited in power by the decentralized nature of its authority as designed by the legislature. The total affects of these changes will play out in time.

On our legislative front, we continue to pursue all avenues in our quest to generate a COLA. We’re in discussions with every employee group and their systems, partnering to educate the public and their Senators to move towards passage.

On other fronts, the legislative priorities of the OSFA continue to move from ideas at caucus, committees and board meetings to convention resolutions, towards becoming state law.

The OSFA also continues to advocate for firefighters at the Federal level, informing our congressional delegation about the harmful affects of the so-called “Windfall Elimination Tax” that severely penalizes first responders and their families for their careers in public service.

This spring is chock full of events that will bring us together, focus on our calling, and improve the Oklahoma Fire Service. n The Oklahoma Fire Chiefs Association Conference is in Claremore on April 3-5. n A Ground Zero Rescue K-9 Fundraiser will be hosted by Becky and Barry Switzer in Tulsa on Thursday, April 18. n The annual Charity Boxing/MMA Event between Cops and Firefighters - Smoke & Guns 6 – will be at the BOK Arena on Saturday, April 27. n OSFA State Fire School will be in Tulsa on May 2–5. Registration is open! n Last but not least, the 125th Annual OSFA Convention will be in Ponca City June 5-8. I am looking forward to what President Dereck Cassady and his Ponca City bretheren have in store!

Hope to see you out there soon! Til then, Take Care & God Bless!

Oklahoma FirefighterApril 20197

n OSFA

STAFF Report

OSFA executive director n

Steve Lumry

stevel@osfa.info • 405-424-1452

I realized Tim Bartram did a really good job of explaining that OSFA is a true grassroots organization as I was proofreading his article for this issue of the newspaper

(his article is at right).

It occurred to me that we haven’t done a really good job of pointing out that fact since I’ve been back at OSFA. Last night, I attended the Edmond Retirees meeting and discussed that concept with them. David Cornforth, Gary Karraker, Dwight Maker, David Rogers, Jeff Zelnicek, and about 20 others were there to discuss what is going on at OSFA. I used some of the thoughts that Tim had included in his article to discuss the importance of membership participation and how it applied to -- you guessed it since it was a retiree group, after all -- COLAs. But the discussion went beyond just discussing how much impact and effect we have as an organization when we use grassroots efforts to sway the legislature. It went into how as a grassroots organization the membership affects the direction of the organization.

In other words, YOU make the difference.

You make a difference in the many ways that Tim lays out in his article, and I’m not going to steal his thunder on that. You’ll have to read on to see.

Another thought occurred to me that day (that’s right, it was a day of two thoughts and I think I developed a headache after, but that’s a different story) and that was a phrase that I’ve used a million times: “You have to know where you came from to know where you’re going.” I truly believe that statement.

That thought got me digging deeper into the subject (that’s probably where the headache came in).

As a grassroots organization, the folks that are the motor to our motion (meaning you) have to understand the significance of where we came from and how we got to where we are.

The benefits and pensions that we enjoy today weren’t just given out by Santa for Christmas.

People had to work hard to get us here, and it’s now up to us to protect what we have and build the future for those who will come after us.

Is that my job? Yes it is! Is it the Executive Board’s job? Yes it is! Is it the staff’s job? Yes it is!

And we all work hard toward that goal. But are we the only ones responsible to make it happen? NO WE ARE NOT! We must ALL work TOGETHER to make these things happen. If it had only been one or two or even 10 people doing everything from the beginning of the organization until now, we would have no presumptive protection, no COLAs, no Plan B, and no pension along with many other things.

Just to prove that I’m not exaggerating, I will include an excerpt from a book that is available through the Museum called “The First 40 Years & Last Few Decades.”

As a reference, this book was a follow-up to a book written by former OSFA Executive Director Bill Liebegott entitled “The First 40 Years” and was updated by our newspaper Managing Editor Pe-

nelope Soldan. Bill was quite the amateur historian and he researched and knew just about everything there was to know about OSFA and his home Oklahoma City Fire Department. Penelope is an avid seeker of knowledge and writer.

In the book they describe how we arrived at a statewide firefighter-only pension system: The idea for a pension for Oklahoma firemen dates back to the birth of the association. In the charter adopted at the organization, which charter was approved by the Governor of the Territory and made of record (we still have the original hand-written charter in the office to this very day) appears this section: ITEM III – 4TH (listed item), To inaugurate and conduct plans and enterprises to relieve wounded and disable firemen and the widows of such as die.

These ideas were discussed in various forms at every convention until 1908. The book describes that committees were formed and various plans were discussed. Some members were involved directly and many indirectly to implement a firefighter pension. The book does, however, give extra credit where it’s due: The fact that (the pension sections listed earlier in the chapter) are a part of the State Constitution is due to the work of Ham P. Bee of Ardmore, at the time employed as a clerk in the (state constitutional) convention, and W.C. Gruber, Chief of the Guthrie Fire Department.

You read that correctly. Firefighters’ pensions are mentioned in the state constitution to this very day in SECTION V-41. “Firemen’s pensions. The Legislature may enact laws authorizing cities to pension meritorious and disabled firemen.”

From inclusion in the state constitution to the enactment of the pension by law, the “grassroots” efforts of the many and the direct efforts of a few are described in this quote from the book: On May 14, 1908, Governor Haskell signed the Pension Bill in the presence of W.C. Gruber (Guthrie Fire Chief), J. Bart Foster (Chandler and Secretary to the Association), and George B. Gelder (Stillwater Fire Dept), committee for the Oklahoma State Firemen’s Association; Ham P. Bee (Ardmore Fire Department) and reading clerk of the house, and W. B. Anthony, secretary to the Governor. The bill had been drafted in the headquarters of the Guthrie Fire Department.

Every city and town was authorized to pay a sum not to exceed $40 per month to each retired member who shall arrive at age 50 and active service of 20 years or more and continuously for two years immediately preceding his retirement therefrom. It also authorized a sum of $10 per week for injuries suffered in the line of duty for a period of 20 weeks.

This legislation also included provision for the first collection of taxes on insurance sold in the state. The cities and towns could make warrant on this tax to pay benefits to the firemen.

Now you know where it all started. What will you do to continue the efforts of this grassroots association?

Remember, the 125th Annual OSFA Convention will be held in Ponca City on June 5-8, 2019.

Until next time, STAY SAFE!

Tim Bartram Special Projects

OSFA: A Grassroots Organization since 1894 Many of you know that I came from working for an organization similar to OSFA in the Ag World.

In the Ag World, organizations like to use the term “Grassroots” to describe themselves. And what they are referring to is that the “direction of the organization comes from the members directly.”

In other words, they have a process that empowers the members to make most of the decisions on the direction and policy of the organization.

OSFA embodies the definition of a grassroots organization. We have multiple ways to allow the members to set the direction and policy of OSFA. Member fire departments can submit resolutions directly to the OSFA Convention, OSFA Committees may submit resolutions to convention and the OSFA Volunteer Caucus may submit resolutions, as well.

At any given convention, there are usually all three types of resolutions voted on by the members.

For this process to work, we need members to show up and be willing to participate in the process. This means that you are willing to serve on a committee, come to Caucus, or be a voting delegate at convention.

Recently, a Fire Chief in the state made the comment that OSFA seems to be the only organization that makes committees work. This is because the membership believes in and participates in the committee process.

The OSFA Executive Board and Staff are working on ways to make participation in committees easier through technology. There is always room for new members to join committees, and even if you can not be a committee member, you can come to the Volunteer Caucus or be a voting delegate at convention.

Finally, if you cannot do any of these, read the Oklahoma Firefighter newspaper, talk to your neighbors or coworkers that are active, ask them questions, give them your opinions, talk to your legislators and participate in spirit.

OSFA has been a relevant organization in the State of Oklahoma for 125 years because we have had strong grassroots participation. We need this to continue to remain relevant for the next 125 years.

OSFA / Museum Staff

405-424-1452 www.osfa.info

Executive Director

Steve Lumry • stevel@osfa.info

Administrative Director

Sheri Nickel • sherin@osfa.info

Special Projects

Tim Bartram • timb@osfa.info

Administrative Assistant

Trisha Chain • trishac@osfa.info

Receptionist

Kristen Horton • kristenh@osfa.info

Publications

Penelope Soldan • penelopes@osfa.info

Museum Director

Gene Brown • geneb@osfa.info

Museum Assistant

Quintin James • quintinj@osfa.info

Museum Assistant

Bob Noll • bobn@osfa.info

8April 2019Oklahoma Firefighter

NOMINATIONS ARE OPEN

OSFA

The David Bain Award recognizes any individual who has provided service both to community and to OSFA, and who possesses attributes that coincide with involvement in youth programs through church, school, and/or community, provides a role model for other leaders, and has proven to be a person of courage and impeccable character

Award

Nominations must be received by April 29, 2019 For a nomination form, go to www.osfa.info For more information: 1-800-308-5336 405-424-1452 stevel@osfa.info

n

Women’s Aux report

Marti Carpenter

SCHOLARSHIPS BENEFITTING FIREFIGHTERS From Oklahoma City Community Foundation

Pete & Lela Stavros Scholarship Foundation Awarding scholarships to high school seniors -- all the children of Oklahoma Firefighters -- since 2004.

At the 2018 OSFA Convention, five $1,000 scholarships were awarded.

Keith Bryan Memorial Scholarship Fund Established in 2012 to provide scholarship opportunities for aspiring and/or current Oklahoma Fire Officers in leadership and management training education.

Available to members of the OFCA.

To Make Secure Donation With Credit Card: www.occf.org/stavros

•

www.occf.org/ofcabryan

To make contribution with check, call OSFA office at 405-424-1452 for donation card & return envelope

Jr Board Member

Hello Auxiliary!

I can’t believe we are so close to convention time!

There is a lot of business to take care of at this point in the year!

Local Auxiliaries: you need to send in your annual reports so that the board has them in time for convention.

Reports will need to be sent to President Erica Koch and her mailing address is 1236 West Griggs Way Mustang, OK 73064.

Erica will need two (2) typewritten copies, and the presentation of the annual report should not exceed three minutes.

Your auxiliary’s report needs to be postmarked no later than May 15.

Also, if you have a nomination for “Woman of the Year,” it should also be sent to Erica Koch.

Please send two (2) typewritten copies of your nomination along with the name of your nominee in a sealed envelope.

The nominee must be a member of your local auxiliary, and your nomination must be postmarked no later than May 15.

With convention so close, I would urge anyone who would like to run for office to look at the required events and duties of each officer which is included in the by-laws.

If you feel you can fulfill these duties and would like to run for Jr. Board Member and join the executive board, please do so!

It is a rewarding experience and a big responsibility at the same time.

Also, everyone who can help with the Ride to Remember, please report to the Oklahoma Firefighters Museum by 9 a.m. on April 20.

This is an excellent event and you don’t want to miss it! And some of the proceeds go to the Oklahoma Fallen and Living Firefighters Memorial.

2018-19 OSFA Women’s Auxiliary Executive Board PRESIDENT Erica Koch ejv97@cox.net (405) 308-2010 VICE PRESIDENT Susan Walker sw233821@gmail.com (580) 351-4116 JR BD MEMBER Marti Carpenter marticarpenter@att.net (405) 590-4608 PAST PRESIDENT Tennie Green tennie.green@gmail.com (918) 440-7060

Oklahoma FirefighterApril 20199

Question & Answers Oklahoma Firefighter asked last issue’s readers this question: “How do you combat germs?”

Here is what they said: w Sheri Nickel, OSFA: I believe the correct answer to that question is wash my hands. w Juan Rodriguez, Lawton Retired: Wash hands often and use Purell. Also, because of my wife’s compromised immunity, I have developed an ear for sneezing and coughing. We shop at stores very early and are finished before they are crowded. w Bert Norton, Midwest City: Lots of Germ-X. w Richelle Treece, Bethel Acres: Good old fashioned hand washing! w Bre Horn, Marshall: Avoid people and areas they are in.

If I have to be around them, lots and lots of Germ-X and hand washing! w Jeremy Goodrich, Yukon: Stay away from sick people and wash your hands! w Bryan West, OSU-FST: I was my hands and use gloves when needed, but I really don’t worry too much about it. w Travis Fortune, Fairview: Fist bump handshakes during flu season! w Greg Lindsay, Oklahoma City: Germs? Bombard them with bleach! w Marti Carpenter, Women’s Auxiliary: Handwashing -maybe too much handwashing -- and I get a flu shot. So far so good this year!

w Joel Bain, Midwest City: The answer to combating germs for me is not worry about it. I wash my hands after I use the bathroom and that’s about it. I don’t worry about picking up something to eat and having to wash my hands before.

I don’t use hand sanitizer to kill germs. I think that your body needs to encounter some germs so your body will fight them off and become immune to some of those germ strands.

I may see a doctor once every three years for something I can’t kick. Just my two cents. w Eric Harlow, Guthrie: By washing my hands! w Rick Chisum, Okmulgee: Gloves, Germ-X, distance and non-contact. w Anthony Stewart, Kingfisher: Personally, I wash my hands often and thoroughly.

Professionally, I don’t take their call if they have something to sell I’m not interested in. LOL. w Mike Duncan, Dewey: No. 1 is washing hands with good warm water and soap.

And I keep up with my vaccinations.

While working, gloves and eye protection, face mask if needed. Washing hands can help a lot for most things. w James Blocker, Oklahoma City: I receive the flu shot annually and wash hands frequently. During flu season, I modify the 5-second rule by reducing it to 3 seconds. I also double glove with 15-mil industrial strength nitrile gloves to shake hands or touch any type surface. Then in January, I get sick anyway.

Next Month’s Question -“What is something you purchased that has lasted a long time?”

Everyone is Welcome to Participate!

Email Your Response to penelopes@osfa.info

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Volunteer Fire Service Report

Travis Fortune

Fairview FD & Committee Vice Chair

Greetings fellow firefighters! I hope everyone is ready for some warmer weather -- I know I certainly am.

We have been blessed with some much-needed moisture, and we are hoping for an early green up to help with wild fire season.

With wildfire season around the corner, I want to urge all firefighters to stay hydrated, wear your PPE, and please don’t risk firefighter safety for grass that will grow back!

Remember to utilize your local EM’s and task force when needed and call early before the fire gets out of hand!

I hope everyone enjoyed the OSFA Volunteer Caucus. It was a great time with a lot of great discussion. I want to encourage all volunteer firefighters to attend next year and be a voice in the OSFA and the Oklahoma Fire Service!

I hope everybody has enrolled in some of the great training opportunities that are offered in the upcoming OSFA State Fire School the first week of May. I know a lot of classes have filled

up, but there are several more classes that are available.

If you have never been, it is well worth your time to attend -- even if it’s only for a day or two.

Along with the local instructors, there are several different instructors from different states and organizations and bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the fire school.

Please try to attend, because you definitely won’t be disappointed!

Last but not least, please start planning for the upcoming OSFA Convention in June and decide who and how many delegates your department is allowed.

Dereck Cassady and the OSFA staff has worked very hard in planning the convention this year held in Ponca City, and I’m sure it will be a great time.

If you have never attended an OSFA Convention, no better time to start than this year. You can definitely witness for yourself the benefits that are offered by OSFA and also be a voice for your department and the Oklahoma Fire Service!

I would like to thank everybody for their service and God Bless!

RIDE TO REMEMBER Oklahoma’s First Responders Memorial Motorcycle Run

Saturday, April 20

1st PRIZE: $1,000

(8139 NW 10th St., OKC, OK )

2nd PRIZE: $500

$25 - Single Riders $35 - Couples $10 - Additional Passengers

3rd to 12th PRIZE: $100 each

9 a.m. at Margarita Island

All Vehicles Are Invited To Participate All Money Generated Goes To 501c3 Non-Profit Organzations:

n Oklahoma Fallen and Living Firefighters Memorial n Oklahoma Law Eforcement Memorial n Emergency Responder Assistance Program Register before April 19 at www.RTROKC.com or in-person at Margarita Island or Papa’s Leather

RAFFLE for enclosed 5x10 V-Nose Trailer from www.OKIETRAILERS.com

Registration on day of event opens at 9 a.m.

Raffle Tickets: 1 for $10 3 for $25

Ride sponsored by Wind & Fire M/C, Margarita Island and Papa’s Leather

Available at Margarita Island & Papa’s Leather

10April 2019Oklahoma Firefighter

n

NEAR-MISS REPORT

By Greg Lindsay

Riding Out The Storm In Oklahoma, we are familiar with severe weather. Most departments have protocols to deal with the possibility of stormy weather, and how to respond when things look the worst

can be difficult.

Flooding rains can be the largest problem geographically; identifying the low areas will help. A tornado can cause significant damage or can slice through a neighborhood like the thin cut of a knife, destroying one home but with only minor damage at the next. Sometimes these storms throw everything they can at us and are very hard to predict.

As a reminder for the height of tornado season, the featured report this month involves a crew responding on a fire alarm during stormy weather. While reading the report try to place yourself in the shoes of this company and predict how you would manage a similar situation.

F3 Tornado Endangers Crew Published in May 2008 (http://firefighternearmiss.com/Reports?id=2695) THE EVENT Our fire department responded to a reported fire alarm. Control had sent out a page approximately 3 hours before, stating that the county was under a severe thunderstorm and tornado watch. A new firefighter and I responded and were first on scene. The new firefighter put on full PPE, with the exception of SCBA and structural firefighting hood. I placed my helmet and coat on, without the chinstrap of my helmet secured. The engine arrived shortly after we did.

We were directed by a senior firefighter to conduct the walk around of the structure.

While walking from Division A to Division D, the wind started to pick up. Our walk around of the structure was incomplete due to a fence blocking us at Division D. We backtracked and walked to Division B. At that time, the wind got stronger. The new firefighter and I heard a tree start cracking, and we ran for the truck. A tornado had just touched down across the street from where the fire alarm was located. The new firefighter, a senior firefighter, and I were all thrown a minimum of five times. The senior firefighter and I both lost our helmets during one of our falls; one helmet was found over 1500 feet away from the scene of the fire alarm.

During our attempt to get to the safety of our engine, the tree that was approximately 30 feet away from us was uprooted and fell, blocking the roadway. The wind was blowing so hard that it was impossible to open the door to the cab from the driver’s side; we had to run to the passenger’s side to get into the safety of the cab.

ATTENTION Fire Chiefs and Department Heads The Oklahoma Association of Emergency Vehicle Technicians helps mechanics and departments find training, servicing and parts for emergency equipment.

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Proper PPE should be worn at all times, including chinstrap buckled and gloved. If the tree that was uprooted had fallen onto us, my helmet would not have provided much protection without the chinstrap buckled.

Also, if the house where we were investigating the fire alarm at had been destroyed by the tornado, we would have become buried and trapped by the debris. My chance of survival would have been decreased by not wearing proper PPE. Control has access to weather conditions 24/7. There is a monitor placed near the ceiling dedicated to weather monitoring.

Although a page for a general tornado warning was given, control advised us, after we radioed that we were taking shelter from the extreme conditions, that the weather was bad! They saw the cell of bad weather coming and could have advised us to take shelter. The cell that hit us was hot pink, which indicates extreme weather conditions.

I learned that Situational Awareness is critical at all times, even during the most extreme events. Approximately 30 seconds before the tornado hit, I noticed that we were under power lines. I told the new firefighter that due to the winds, we should move away from the power lines. The lines and the fence at Division D would have blocked our exit if the lines had fallen during the tornado.

With this event as a reminder, share with your crew some of your experiences that fit the examples given.

• Where hail is an element of your current storm, and the dispatch information is a call for service, do you have the decision-making authority to delay response?

(This depends on the call type and if the hail would significantly damage your apparatus ability to remain in service.) Which call types could warrant a delay and which could not?

• It’s just after dark, and you are out on a fire alarm. As the first line stretches to the side of the building, hail begins to fall, and the stones are getting larger. How have you managed this in the past?

• With the same situation as before, what are some of the indicators of a tornado in the area before high winds begin?

• Given your apparatus type, what are some of the concerns for driving through flooding streets? How much water is too much water? Do you know where the air intake for the engine on your apparatus is located?

• Does your dispatch center closely monitor weather conditions during severe weather?

Operating during a storm adds a new element to managing a fire alarm. It can help to have a heads up from the dispatch center, but keeping an eye on the approaching storm also helps. If the storm arrives after we mark on-scene, it may take a sharp imagination to avoid being pelted with hail. I speak from experience when I say I do not fit completely under my helmet.

Thunder and lightning are unique in their own part. When life safety is not an incident priority, we have to address the safety of the firefighters operating on the scene. Elevated aerials or ground ladders can all act as targets for lightning. Anyone nearby could feel the wrath of the storm. Temporarily suspending operations may become part of the incident action plan.

If the storm includes a tornado warning, looking out for power flashes in the area can indicate the path of the storm. If the area is heavily treed or in a densely housed neighborhood, it can be difficult to identify a tornadic storm at night.

Whenever possible, avoid the area until the tornado passes. We can’t be there to help our community if we are blown away in the process.

Where flooding is a concern, some apparatus types have the air intake at almost curb level. It becomes much more important to know what depth of water we can cross. Even when the intake is not an issue, high water in the engine compartment can be damaging. I have seen apparatus that tried to push through flooded areas only to have the fan blades bend in the water and damage the radiator. Understanding the operational limitations of our apparatus becomes more important in this situation.

Do you have a story to share about a storm? The national reporting system at www.firefighternearmiss.com is your resource to share or learn about something specific about the fire service. The treasures in these reports are in the relatable topics. Help us share a topic you relate to and make our world safer in the storm.

Thank you for reading.

Oklahoma FirefighterApril 201911

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Join Mailing List Scan QR Code or www.nafeco.com/Pages/JoinMailingList Eddie Hogan • (405) 740-1185 • eddie.hogan@nafeco.com • www.nafeco.com Chet Thompson • (405) 812-1028 • chet.thompson@nafeco.com • SCBA Sales & Service Roy Callaway • (405) 550-9370 • roy.callaway@nafeco.com

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12April 2019Oklahoma Firefighter

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educational Advisory Report Chuck French Tulsa FD

PUBLIC EDUCATION SUMMIT Friday, May 3 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

NFPA Data Overview: Take a fast and furious look at free resources to help you address hot topics and life safety issues effecting all communities. This session focuses on real-life solutions to everyday fire problems.

8 to 9 a.m.

9 to 10 a.m.

10 to 11 a.m.

1 to 5 p.m.

Community Risk Reduction (CRR): What exactly is CRR and what does it have to do with us? Discuss how CRR impacts our fire and injury losses in our Oklahoma communities.

We’ll also discuss a few examples of CRR in Oklahoma.

NFPA Data Overview (73031) CRR- Comunity Risk Reduction (73238) EMAC Workshop (73004) NFPA Hot Topic Round Robin (73032) EMAC: This session will focus on how to use educational messaging that is developed by the NFPA Educational Messaging Advisory Committee (EMAC) so that all fire departments and educators can use the same language to educate the public.

Learning Stations and Round Robins: A variety of topics -NFPA 3000 - Standard for an Active Shooter/Hostile Event Response (ASHER), Carbon Monoxide Home Fire Sprinklers, Wildfire & Firewise, Safe Kids Oklahoma and more -in a fun rotating format.

Fire impacts every community and every person no matter your age or culture.

The Public Education Summit aims to enhance community safety, quality of life and confidence by minimizing the impact of hazards and emergency incidents through education and prevention.

JOB OPPORTUNITY: FIRE CHIEF Lawrence-Douglas County Fire Medical

Starting Salary: $131,473 To $144,621 Annually DOQ Lawrence-Douglas County Fire Medical is a progressive, fast-paced organization committed to the pursuit of excellence, providing fullyintegrated EMS and Fire Services to the City of Lawrence community.

This commitment to excellence has yielded international accreditation through the Commission on Fire Accreditation International, and an Insurance Services Offices (ISO) rating of 1; one of only five departments state-wide and seventyone internationally with this distinction.

Ideal candidates for this position will possess superior communication skills, passion for public service and the community, and a predisposition for creativity and innovation.

RESPONSIBILITIES: Direct and review the strategic planning, organizational activities and operations, and executive-level administration of the Fire Medical Department. This includes all emergency medical and ambulance services, fire

suppression, prevention, technical services and administration across seven stations and two support facilities with 143 sworn staff and supplemental civilian support teams.

Coordinate assigned activities with other city departments and outside agencies; inform and evaluate City Policies and Procedures.

QUALIFICATIONS: Equivalent to Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in fire science, emergency medical care, public administration, or a closely related field. Ten years of increasingly responsible command experience in an organized fire and emergency medical department including four to six years of high-level command, administrative, and supervisory responsibility.

MUST SUBMIT ONLINE APPLICATION BY: Monday, April 8th, 2019 www.LAWRENCEKS.org/JOBS

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It’s that time of year again to start thinking about the OSFA State Fire School, one of the biggest and free training schools for the great state of Oklahoma.

The OSFA State Fire School is May 2-5 at Tulsa FD’s Fire Training Facility and Tulsa Community College NE. A lot of work each year is done by the OSFA Educational Advisory Committee to make this free training event happen for you and others across the state. I want to personally thank each committee member for their hard work and dedication to this year’s state school.

This year’s event will have activities to participate in each night, as well as opportunities for you to network and have some camaraderie with fellow firefighters.

During the day, we will have food trucks on location so you don’t have to leave campus for lunch time. We will also have some great vendors there that help make this school free for you, so please check them out and thank them for their support.

Plus, the class schedule has been structured so the majority of the classes can be attended multiple times, increasing your opportunity to get in some great training.

This school offers a little bit of everything -- Company Officer, EMS, Wildland, Leadership, Firefighter, Command and Control and much more.

We have numerous hands on training (H.O.T.) classes lined up for you, as well as some great classroom presentations to help enhance your personal skill set.

If you can’t find something to train on, you’re not trying hard enough to make yourself better. If you’re having a hard time getting free training, this is that opportunity to get free training. So please encourage your fellow firefighters, neighboring departments and friends to come and train with us in 2019.

I look forward to seeing you this year at the OSFA State Fire School. I hope each of you will make an attempt to try and join us at this year’s event.

in memoriam Mark Meyer, Tulsa FD The Final Fire Alarm sounded for Tulsa firefighter Mark Meyer on March 16. He was 53.

In 1998, Mark was accepted into the Tulsa Fire Academy. This was his dream job. After completing the academy, Mark began his career on C shift and Station 30. Over his career, he also worked at Station 21 and 31 before retiring in

September 2014.

Meyer was diagnosed with sarcoma cancer after a tumor was discovered in his abdomen during a routine physical in March 2012.

During his time in treatment, he took notice of the number of children who were fighting battles of their own.

Mark created Hydrants of Hope, a nonprofit that raises money for the families of children battling cancer to help them pay for aspects of treatment, including transportation and prescriptions.

As of October 2018, the foundation had donated more than $120,000. The Rotary Club of Tulsa awarded Meyer the Above and Beyond Award in 2013.

Oklahoma FirefighterApril 201913

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Museum news Gene Brown Museum Director geneb@osfa.info 405-424-3440

Hello Everyone! Things are looking up here at the museum!

We delivered the Lawton Truck back to Lawton FD. This was a mutually great opportunity for both of us.

It gave Lawton a great piece of history to put into Central Fire Station.

And it gave us some much-needed space here in the museum.

We are working on the 1954 Ward LaFrance truck donated by the Stuart Fire Dept. It should be running soon.

While I’m on the subject of the Stuart truck, I’m looking for some 10.00 X 20 tires to put on it.

If anyone has any extras, please con-

tact me here at the museum. We would appreciate your assistance.

By the way, we have four 11.00 X 20 wheels and tires here. That is what is currently on the Stuart truck.

As soon as we replace the tires, these will be available to anyone that could use them for spares.

Please make plans to attend the 125th OSFA Convention June 5-8 in Ponca City. , Also in Ponca City will be the 38th ORFA Convention on June 3 and the 87th OSFA Women’s Auxiliary Convention June 5-8.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Help support your Oklahoma Firefighters Museum Expansion and the Oklahoma Fallen and Living Firefighters Memorial by purchasing an Oklahoma Firefighter license tag.

Money received from the purchase of each tag goes directly to financing upkeep on the Oklahoma Fallen and Living Firefighters Memorial and Oklahoma Firefighters Museum.

Oklahoma Firefighter tags cost $35 a year (on top of regular tag fees) and $20 goes directly to the Museum/Memorial.

Tags can be purchased from local tag agents any time during the year -- not just with your regular plate. And they can be customized to 6 letters as approved by the Tax Commission.

VISIT YOUR OKLAHOMA FIREFIGHTERS MUSEUM Monday thru Saturday 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. • Sunday 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

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14April 2019Oklahoma Firefighter

Q&A WITH ORFA PAST PRESIDENTS FUTURE ORFA PAST PRESIDENTS WEIGH IN ON TOPICS, AS WELL

2019 — Juan Rodriguez, Lawton

Retired: 2013 Rank: Assistant Chief (Battalion Commander) Best: Being able to sleep.

Worst: Boredom. There is a limit on golf and fishing. Particularly when you are alone.

Words of Wisdom: If you want to be promoted tomorrow, make your bosses job easier today.

2020 — Tippy Pierce, Moore

Retired: 2009 Rank: Training Major Best: You have more time to spend with the wife, children and grandchildren.

Worst: Not being able to help the fire service come up with cost of living raises (COLA). I got one in 2008, and that is the last time we have been able to secure them.

Words of Wisdom: Remember your brothers and sisters in the fire service and spend time together. Because when you retire, you will be separated from them and you will never get that time back.

Making runs with your fellow firefighters is a very precious time. It is like looking at life in the rear mirror. When it is gone, you will never see it again! Love each and everyone of the people you helped as a firefighter. That’s when you are truly blessed!

2021 — George Fina

Retired: 1984 Rank: Senior Captain Best: Doing what you want to do. I’ve done so many things since retiring, including becoming Mayor of Piedmont.

Worst: I miss being a firefighter.

Words of Wisdom: Prepare for the future. You’re going to live a long time after you leave the fire department.

Retired: 1985 Rank: Fire Chief Best: Being able to go where you want to go when you want to go.

Worst: I miss the excitement and the adrenaline rush.

Words of Wisdom: Make the fire department your Number One job, not your day-off job.

1999 — Tim Ford, Nichols Hills

Retired: 1980 Rank: Captain Best: Doing what you want to do.

Worst: I don’t think there is a bad thing. I’m still fiddling around, talking to people and going to convention each year. I love it!

Words of Wisdom: Be very careful.

2000 — Larry Bogges, Lawton

Retired: 1995 Rank: Captain Best: I can get up when I want.

Worst: I really don’t have a worst thing about retirement. I can’t get all things done, so I don’t know how I ever got things done when I was working.

Words of Wisdom: Some things the guys should watch or think about before retirement are: “What am I doing about health insurance?” and “Am I really ready to retire?”

Also, stay active in OSFA and the pension. You may think all is roses, but it can change overnight. And stay on a first-name basis with your congress person.

2001 — Clifford R. Lewis, OKC

Retired: 1994 Rank: Major Best: I can enjoy my time doing what I want.

Worst: I miss the people I used to work with.

Words of Wisdom: Do your job and be happy to belong to an honorable profession.

2022 — A.K. Yogi Cole, Tulsa

Retired: 2015 Rank: Captain Best: More time with my family.

Worst: Cost of insurance.

Words of Wisdom: It’s the best profession in the world … earn it!

2002 — H. Ray Stoops, Tulsa

38th ORFA CONVENTION Tuesday, June 4 • Ponca City Convention Center

The Oklahoma Retired Firefighters Association Convention

is FREE and will start at 1 p.m.

Registration opens at 10 a.m. Lunch will be provided at noon.

In an effort to expedite the registration process, please send

this pre-registration form to the OSFA office no later than May 27.

Online registration forms are also available at www.osfa.info.

ORFA Convention Pre-Registration Form Member Name: _____________________________________________________ FD Retired From:______________________Email:_________________________ Guest: ____________________________________________________________ Do You Plan to Attend the OSFA Convention, as well? o Yes Do You Plan to Attend the OSFA Banquet? o Yes

1994 — Ernie Ledbetter, Okmulgee

o No o No

NOTE: Cost is $50 to attend these OSFA events -- Not included in FREE ORFA Registration MAIL TO: ORFA Convention 2019, 2716 NE 50th St, OKC, OK 73111

Retired: 1994 Rank: Assistant Chief Best: You don’t have that radio ringing in your ear all day. One of the best things I can remember is not having a walkie talkie that was constantly ringing and taking you away from what you were doing.

Worst: I don’t know the worst thing. It’s all been pretty good in my estimation.

Words of Wisdom: Set your goals on the fire department and be honest and straight forward. You’re certainly more apt to progress and be of more service to the fire department if you treat everything well.

2005 — Mike Billingsley, Nichols Hill

Retired: 2001 Rank: Firefighter Best: Check in the bank every month..

Worst: Said check not being enough money.

Words of Wisdom: Relax. Enjoy. Get involved.

2006 — David Bowman, Oklahoma City

Retired: 1997 Rank: Major Best: I get to spend more time with my wife and grandkids.

Worst: Not having enough to do all the time.

Words of Wisdom: Today’s firefighters are really fortunate that they have great equipment. I went to work in 1967 and we had one self contain on the rig, and you were a wussy if you used it.

I was on the third platoon we changed that -- it took a while, but with the help of the union, we got self contains for everybody. And then if you weren’t using your safety stuff, you’d get in trouble.

My advise is to use your safety equipment, clean it up and make sure you don’t take it off until it’s time to go home. Because now they found out there are a lot of gasses coming out of rubble.

There are Firefighte comment

2007 — T. Dick Ca

Retired: 2002 Ran Best: I get up in m lot of ‘me’ time.

Worst: I haven Words of Wis everything, wh The pension i some leave it up who are still inv sponsible. Those got to do.

2008 — Bud She

Retired: 2002 Rank Best: You can do wh Worst: Not being as sociated with for so lo Words of Wisdom: T can enjoy your retirem

2009 — Perry Brin

Retired: 2000 Rank Best: Grandchildren Worst: I’m not retire Oklahoma Fire Servic Words of Wisdom: C practices for a healthy

2010 — Mike Bow

Retired: 2004 Rank Best: I began my em and have plans to reti position.

I am hoping that re be involved in the act to. And with 10 grand and I can stay busy w Worst: I believe ever strategy in place for re remorse over the timi I believe each of us stay involved to insur continues to make stri to ensure that our pen I am aware of a gro of every day necessiti or so members who d for the escalator or Pla erode over the years t retirement to pay for t This is not acceptab to resolve this issue. I more than 10 years wi Those known as th are 567 ‘tweeners’ acc fected the most.

Words of Wisdom: I today, I would choose

2011 — Randy Ros

Retired: 2004 Rank Best: Not worrying spending more time w the times past … mak Worst: Missing com issues … losing old fr some bad memories.

Words of Wisdom: L from your experience … be smart … be activ servant … be thankfu Remember, you are

e 22 living Past Presidents of the Oklahoma Retired ers Association. All but three could be reached for ts to the following questions:

agle, Tulsa

nk: Planning Officer morning, I drink my coffee and then I have a

n’t found that out yet. sdom: It’s pretty much what I say or write in hich is: “Don’t Be Apart, Be A Part.” is the most important thing in family life, and p to people like me and other past presidents volved. So be involved, be informed and be ree are just some of the things that I think you’ve

epherd, Slaughterville

k: Fire Chief hat you want to do. ssociated with the people you have been asong.

Take care of yourself so when you retire you ment.

negar, Duncan

k: Fire Chief n! Accomplishing goals! Setting new goals! ed. I’m very blessed to still be working for the ce as a Rural Fire Defense Coordinator.

Constant training, safety and daily health y retirement. And be involved.

wer, Midwest City

k: Fire Chief mergency management career on April 1, 2004 iree this spring with more than 15 years in that

etirement will provide some additional time to tivities and organizations that I am committed dchildren living in the metro, my wife De Ann with their activities. ryone should make sure they have a good etirement. I often talk to retirees who express ing of their retirement. s working or retired have a responsibility to re the fire service is a honorable profession that ides in safety and health for all firefighters and nsion system stays strong and vibrant. oup of retirees who are struggling to take care ies due to the insufficient retirement. Those 600 due to their retirement date were not eligible an B have continued to see their buying power to the point some of them do not have enough their monthly insurance cost. ble and we need to come up with a solution don’t believe any of us thought we would go ithout an increase in our retirement. he “In Betweeners” or “Tweeners’ -- and there cording to the Pension Office -- are being af-

If I were a young man starting a new career e the same profession. #bestjobever!

se, Oklahoma City

k: Lieutenant about timelines, deadlines and availability … with family and friends … great memories of king new friends … and more golf! mradary at the stations … getting older ... health riends ... missing the challenge … and having

Live this job … love what you do … learn es … be proud of this job of being a firefighter ve in every part of the fire service … be a good ul in all that you do. e never alone … there is no ‘I’ in ‘Team.”

n What’s the best thing about retirement? n What’s the worst thing about retirement? n What words of wisdom do you have for today’s firefighters?

2012 — Paul Gallahar, Tulsa

Retired: 2008 Rank: Deputy Chief Best: The unstructured nature of retired life.

Worst: Something I have yet to experience.

Words of Wisdom: It is my experience that the true soul of the fire service is its commitment to serving others. Only through service to others can one truly experience the fullness the fire service can provide.

Just serve. Serve the department, serve the community, serve mankind in general. Don’t worry about getting credit or outdoing others. Just serve and the rest will take care of itself.

2013 — Bob Allen, Owasso

Retired: 2003 Rank: Fire Chief Best: Getting to spend time with the family.

Worst: Spending too much time with the family.

Words of Wisdom: Leave the fire service better than you found it.

2014 — Jackie Carner, Brokn Arrow

Retired: 2009 Rank: Fire Chief Best: The freedom of time to spend with my grandkids.

Worst: I still love the fire service, so I still miss not being a direct part of it.

Words of Wisdom: Don’t treat the opportunity to be a firefighter as just another job. Being a firefighter is a privilege that most people on this earth don’t get the chance to be a part of. Value this calling and treat it and your brothers with respect.

2015 — Tom Smith, Dewey

Retired: 2009 Rank: Fire Chief Best: I get to do what I want when I want.

Worst: Comaraderie is what I miss the most.

Words of Wisdom: Stay diligent and stay strong.

2016 — John A. Soos, Oklahoma City

Retired: 2002 Rank: Deputy Chief Best: I love having time, anytime, to be with my family. Not responding to calls in the middle of the night (especially in winter).

Worst: I really miss the camaraderie of the fire service. Also I miss not getting the benefits we were promised when we were hired.

Words of Wisdom: Wisdom = often listened to, seldom followed.

You spent 20 to 35 years risking your life in an incredibly stressful job, and what we (retirees) learned from that is we must forever continue to fight to have and to keep our pension benefits.

Your Senator and Representative should know you by your first name so you can explain why our pension is different.

2017 — Phil Ostrander, Tulsa

Retired: 2004 Rank: Driver Best: Spending time with family, especially my grand kids.

Worst: I’m not really retired. There’s always work to do.

Words of Wisdom: Don’t forget the ones that got you where you are today.

2018 — Dana Cramer, Norman

Retired: 2014 Rank: Training Division Best: Being able to travel or being able to be at functions and not having to worry about getting the shift off.

Worst: The camaraderie of co-workers. The station life was a lot of fun. You never knew what was around the corner, and my family made life-long friends. Also, the variety of calls. It was amazing the things we made calls on.

Words of Wisdom: For today’s fire department personnel, I would say train and don’t get complacent. Get involved with fire service organizations of all types -- not just OSFA, but all that you can get involved in.

You make your time with the fire service what you will remember. You can have great memories, but it’s up to you. You don’t want to look back on your career and have any regrets. This goes for when you retire, as well.

Get involved and stay involved. You can make a difference. Plus, it enables you to help others like before you retired. After all, that’s what the fire service is all about: “Helping Others.”

Oklahoma FirefighterApril 201915

n

ORFA REport

Juan Rodriguez Lawton FD Retired

The New Normal?

There are some euphemisms that become annoying after a while because they are used too often. One of those is “The New Normal.”

Since I am married to a cancer survivor, I see the new normal as reality instead of just a saying. The new normal is just a fact of life depending on where you are in your career, life, relationship, etcetera, because change is the one constant in life.

As a retiree, I can assure you that retirement is definitely a “New Normal.” For the past 11 years, the new normal is retirees get nothing. This was not exclusive to firefighters, it was consistent to all of the state retirement systems.

Living as a retiree without receiving COLAs has been tough considering inflation. The worst of these being the 62% increase to insurance premiums over the same time frame.

It appears there may be an opportunity to make another new normal.

This year, there is a COLA bill that has already passed the house by a whopping 98-3 vote. As of this writing, HB 2304 has not gotten through the Senate Retirement and Insurance Committee.

Perhaps, the legislature now sees the need for Oklahoma’s retirees. The author, Representative Avery Frix, stated the reason he authored the bill was because a retired teacher’s pension was not enough to pay her insurance premium. That is also true for some retired firefighters.

A COLA is desperately needed by all retirees. Formerly, retirees could depend on a modest COLA every omnibus/ election year. This is probably not going to happen, but perhaps if the ice can be broken, retirees can see occasional COLA increases.

Why did it take so long? The answer to that is the national spotlight on the unfunded liabilities of pension systems and the effect on state bond ratings.

A few years ago, the Pension Actuarial Analysis Act was changed to include a provision that stated COLAs would be considered a fiscal bill and would have to be funded in order to even be heard.

This meant all COLAs would have to be funded by the legislature even if the system could afford the COLA without funds from the legislature.

This made receiving a retiree COLA highly unlikely as you have probably already guessed.

Why now? HB 2304 includes a part that would change the Pension Actuarial Analysis Act to include a safe harbor clause that allows the bill to be treated as a nonfiscal retirement bill in the legislative process.

This could create a way for the Pension System(s) to grant COLAs to their members if the Pension system(s) could afford to give one depending on their unfunded liability. This could be a good and fair method to allow occasional COLAs in the future.

The responsibility would then fall to the Firefighters themselves to protect the pension system, as it should be.

I know that is difficult to be excited about a potential 4% COLA after 11 years, particularly after watching Federal retirees receive quite a few. The fact remains that retirees could still receive nothing as is the current “new normal.”

It is my hope that the legislature looks at Pension COLAs regularly to determine if the system can afford to grant COLAs to their retirees.

I truly hope that will be the new “New Normal.”

16April 2019Oklahoma Firefighter

OSFA Snapshots

Got something going on at your Fire Department? Share the news! Email photos to osfa@osfa.info

On March 14, Joni Swiontek from Hogeye FD received her bunker gear from OSFA’s Sheri Nickel for completing FF1. Later that night, Joni got called to a structure fire.

Joni sent the following email to Sheri: “House fire at a little after 4 this morning!!! Saved the house too!! BAM!!!

I run a lot of calls alone, mostly medical since I’m an EMT. But a lot of times for grass fires, my chief will meet me on scene and I’ll grab a brush truck. I’ll get there first and start working.

That class taught me how to act and react in certain situations. I think it should be a requirement! It can save lives!

Most of the people who haven’t taken it don’t even know what to do if a firefighter comes out of a fire in super heated gear! Most will say to hose them down! I’ve asked around and that’s the general answer.”

ABOVE: Firefighters from Garfield County received a donation from Enel Wind Energy for their response to the fires in Western Oklahoma last year.

LEFT: Fargo FD’s Austin Thomas and Darren Price completed and passed the online FF1 class held in Woodward and receive bunker gear..

BELOW: Retired Enid Deputy Chief Leo Kirkley visited the Oklahoma Firefighter Museum on March 8. He had driven our 1940 American LaFrance ladder truck while at Enid. What a great opportunity to visit with a guy that used this truck!

Sheri received the following email from Addington FD’s Aaron Wheeler: “In case I don’t get to see you when you deliver the gear, I wanted to thank you, OSFA and OSU FST for all the hard work you guys put in to getting this online class developed and offering this training to the rural departments.

The knowledge and confidence that was gained is priceless to us and the two sets of new bunker gear wouldn’t have been an option for us without the grant. Keep up the good work!

Blaine County FF1 Skills

Drumright FF1 Skills

Ardmore FF1 Skills

Ardmore FF1 Skills

Oklahoma FirefighterApril 201917

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18April 2019Oklahoma Firefighter

HB 2051 Success Thrills Collinsville Volunteer Firefighter Josh Yanus, who volunteers with the Collinsville Fire Department, was featured on a Channel 2 Tulsa TV news report in February.

He talked about why he decided to become a volunteer firefighter.

What swayed him was the kindness of volunteer firefighters who pulled him and his family out of their flooding home during Hurricane Harvey.

He also talked about House Bill 2051, which was heading to the floor for a vote.

The House of Representatives voted 97-0 for the bill authored by Rep. Mike Sanders that benefits Oklahoma’s volunteer fire departments (more details at right).

Collinsville Firefighter Josh Yanus Josh was pleased with the positive feedback he has received from the TV report. And he is very pleased with how the bill did in the House.

“It’s extremely exciting to know that HB 2051 passed unanimously,” Josh said. ““I think that speaks volumes to the lobbying efforts of the OSFA and tells me that our state representatives recognize the vital role that volunteer fire departments play in keeping Oklahoma communities safe on a daily basis.”

Josh moved from Houston to Owasso, OK, in December 2017, interviewed with Collinsville FD in April 2018 and enjoyed his first month as a volunteer firefighter in May 2018.

He is one of 10 volunteers with Collinsville FD, but the department could use 10 more volunteers.

“Simply put, the best part about being a volunteer firefighter is helping people and serving the city of Collinsville,” Josh said. “Whether it’s responding to a medical call, assisting on a gas leak, giving a station tour, or representing the department at a community event, the people component of the job is second to none.

“The feeling you get when helping someone in a time of need is unlike anything I’ve experienced up to this point in my life.”

n www.CONRADFIRE.com

@conradfire

n (913) 780-5521 @conradfireequipment

Thank you, Rep. Mike Sanders Thanks to Representative Mike Sanders for his work to get HB 2051 passed in the Oklahoma House of Representative.

On March 7, it was passed unanimously by a vote of 97-0.

This bill allows off-duty paid and retired paid firefighters to volunteer in their hometown volunteer fire department.

“Our rural fire departments depend on volunteers to keep our citizens and their properties safe,” Rep. Sanders said. “This law will help those who are ready and willing to serve do so without damage to their pensions or added cost to the state.”

OSFA Executive Director Steve Lumry added, “We wish to thank Representative Sanders for his diligence in moving this legislation forward. This is our democratic process at its finest.”

HB 2051 was a request bill from OSFA that came directly from the OSFA Volunteer Caucus as a resolution.

It was then sent to the OSFA Convention where it was overwhelming supported by the delegates in attendance.

Representative Sanders then agreed to carry the bill and has been tremendously successful. The bill will now move to the State Senate for consideration.

Rep. Mike Sanders

At right are details on two firefighter bills authored by these representatives: Rep. Avery Frix authored HB 2304.

Rep. Avery Frix

Rep. Josh West authored HB 2271

Rep. Josh West

Conrad Fire Equipment is pleased to announce its partnership with Life Line Emergency Vehicles.

Conrad is now the exclusive Life Line dealer in Missouri, Kansas, and Oklahoma.

Conrad Fire Equipment and Roger Brown would like to thank and congratulate the Jenks OK Fire Dept. on its recent purchase of this Pierce MFG.

Firefighters Serving Firefighters

ROGER BROWN (785) 865-6941

Oklahoma FirefighterApril 201919

COLA Bill for State Retirees Passes House Floor

Mental Health Bill for First Responders Passes House

On March 12, the House of Representatives passed a bill that would grant an increase in retirement benefits to retirees of Oklahoma’s six retirement systems.

House Bill 2304, authored by State Rep. Avery Frix (R-Muskogee) would give a permanent 4 percent cost of living adjustment (COLA) to all retirees of the Oklahoma Firefighters Pension and Retirement System, Teachers’ Retirement System of Oklahoma, Oklahoma Police Pension and Retirement System, Uniform Retirement System for Justices and Judges, Oklahoma Law Enforcement Retirement System and Oklahoma Public Employees Retirement System.

The increase would take place January 1, 2020.

Frix said the issue was brought to his attention in 2016 by a constituent who is a retired teacher and whose health insurance cost more than her retirement check.

“Our state’s former public servants haven’t had a cost-of-living increase in 11 years,” Frix said. “After dedicating their lives and careers to our state, they deserve the long-term stability a COLA would provide. I was glad my colleagues in the House voted overwhelmingly to support this bill and provide for our public retirees.”

HB 2304 passed the House with a 98-3 vote and now heads to the Senate for consideration.

OSFA President Dereck Cassady praised the move: “The Oklahoma House of Representatives stood today with Oklahoma’s Retired Firefighters and showed they care about the hardships being faced by the retired firefighters in this state. This much-needed COLA will not fix every ill that was created by 11 years without a COLA, but it does go a long way in showing good faith.”

The bill also amends the Oklahoma Pension Legislation Actuarial Analysis Act to include a safe harbor clause that allows the bill to be treated as a nonfiscal retirement bill in the legislative process.

OSFA Executive Director Steve Lumry said, “We need to thank Representative Avery Frix, Representative Chris Kannady, who offered the 4% amendment, Floor Leader Jon Echols, and Speaker Charles McCall for their efforts in moving this COLA forward.

“Then, we must begin work on our Senators by letting them understand the need for this COLA. We encourage ALL retired firefighters to thank these Representative plus their own and then contact their State Senator and ask them to support HB 2304.”

House Bill 2271 passed the House on March 4 with a unanimous vote of 95-0.

House Majority Leader Josh West (RGrove) commented on the passage of a bill that adds mental injury as a qualifying exemption for workers’ compensation for first responders.

“I appreciate that the business community sees the importance of combating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and mental injuries experienced on a local level with many of our first responders,” West said. “Our first responders witness some of the most horrific, gruesome results of accidents or crimes, and this creates mental trauma that must be healed much like a physical injury. This bill will allow them the resources to get the help they need to overcome these injuries and continue working.”

West said the bill is something he’s been working on for several years.

Rep. Chris Kannady (R-Oklahoma City) said he, too, is thankful for the passage of the legislation.

“Our first responders are tasked with an incredibly stressful job as they work to protect the safety of the public,” Kannady said. “It’s good to be able to pass legislation that will provide them with some benefits to help keep them healthy as well.”

OSFA Executive Director Steve Lumry said, “This bill moves the Oklahoma Fire Service in a positive direction when it comes to the mental stressors we face on an almost daily basis as firefighters.

“We want to thank Representative Josh

n

Chaplain’s Corner

TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES

Kim Hayes

Critical Incident Stress Management Fire Chaplaincy

Chickasha FD Chaplain Today I’m writing from Ghana West Africa. I’m on a mission trip with a ministry team.

I am reminded of the words of Jesus who said to us in John 14:6, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No man comes to the Father but by me.”

Those in Emergency Services are ready at the alarm to rescue people no matter where or what the situation.

Ready to help in any situation, to make a difference in someone’s life. Thanks for your service and sacrifice.

In many ways, that is similar to what our Great God is doing in this world today. He’s on a rescue mission for the eternal souls of any and all who He finds.

If you have a spiritual need, it will be met as we humble ourselves and turn to the one who cares more than any other.

Proof of this is found in the most often quoted verse perhaps of the Bible in John 3:16, “For God so loved the word, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him shall have everlasting life.”

I pray for you today.

West for his service in the Army and for his diligence on this issue. We now must encourage our Senators to show their support for HB 2271.”

The bill has now advanced to the State Senate for consideration.

West was in Washington, D.C. and standing alongside President Donald Trump as he signed an executive order to combat veterans’ suicide through increased suicide prevention outreach through the Department of Veterans Affairs.

“It was an honor to represent our nation’s millions of veterans in our Capital this week,” West said. “I’m grateful to President Trump for seeing the seriousness and importance of this threat to the men and women who have faithfully served our country.

“Giving them resources to combat depression, PTSD and other mental injuries suffered as a result of combat duty will help reduce the number of suicides committed each year by our veterans. They deserve our gratitude, our help and our support, and as a fellow veteran I’m glad to give it to them.”

West served in the U.S. Army for nine years before medically retiring with honors including the Purple Heart and Bronze Star. He served tours of duty in Kuwait, Afghanistan and Iraq. In 2003, he was shot in both legs and his abdomen during a mission.

He now serves as a founding member of the bipartisan, bicameral Veterans Caucus in the Oklahoma Legislature.

May 16-18 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

At OKC Fire & Police Training Center (800 N Portland, OKC, OK 73107)

For More Info: Gary Dill deerslider@gmail.com Hal J. Penner hjpiguana@hotmail.com Teddy Wilson teddy.wilson@okc.gov Chuck McDade chaplainchuckmcdade@ gmail.com

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20April 2019Oklahoma Firefighter

www.osufst.org

1723 West Tyler, Stillwater, OK 74078 • (800) 304-5727 • (405) 744-5727 • Fax: (405) 744-7377

April 2019 CLASS SCHEDULE Current as of March 18, 2019

Courses are subject to change • Call or check online for changes in courses

All courses are FREE unless otherwise noted

Emergency Services Instructor (Instructor I) (72970) April 1-4 (32 hours) • $2000 - All Participants Tulsa Community College NE EMS Instructor Update (73370) April 1 (8 hours) • $500 - All Participants Quapaw Tribe Fire EMS Instructor Workshop / Bridge (73392) April 1 (8 hours) • $650 - All Participants Quapaw Tribe Fire/EMS Hazardous Materials Operations for WMD Refresher (71203) April 2 (8 hours) Chickasha Fire Department Hazardous Materials Operations for WMD Refresher (71206) April 2 (8 hours) Edmond Fire Department EMS Instructor Update (72941) April 2 (8 hours) • $500 - All Participants Enid Fire Department EMS Instructor Workshop / Bridge (73393) April 2 (8 hours) • $650 - All Participants Enid Fire Department OEM-FEMA G.205: Recovery From Disaster, the Local Government Role (72519) April 2-3 (16 hours) Ottawa Co Courthouse Annex Fire Fighter I Live Burn Evaluation (71517) April 3 (8 hours) OSU-PSC, Stillwater Hazardous Materials Operations for WMD Refresher (71204) April 3 (8 hours) Chickasha Fire Department Hazardous Materials Operations for WMD Refresher (71205) April 4 (8 hours) Chickasha Fire Department Hazardous Materials Operations for WMD Refresher (71214) April 4 (8 hours) Owasso Fire Dept Training Center OEM EM Rodeo (73369) April 4 (4.5 hours) Western Tech Center - Elk City,

OEM-FEMA G.557: Rapid Assessment Workshop (71565) April 4 (8 hours) Fort Sill - Snow Hall , Bld 730 All participants for this school must enter through Key Gate which is off of I-44. If you are Pre-registered your name and Department will be on a list at that Gate. No other gate can be used for this school.

Hazardous Materials Operations for WMD Refresher (71215) April 5 (8 hours) Owasso Fire Dept Training Center Hazardous Materials Awareness for WMD-HazMat Emergencies (72057) April 5 (8 hours) Tulsa Fire Safety Training Center Hazardous Materials Awareness for WMD-HazMat Emergencies Certification (72058) April 5 (1 hour) Tulsa Fire Safety Training Center Vehicle Rescue Technician Level I Part B (72733) April 5-6 (16 hours) Hinton Fire Department Rope Rescue Technician Level I Part B (71575) April 6-7 (16 hours) Western Tech Center - Elk City Fire Fighter I Certification (72329) April 6 (8 hours) Ardmore Fire Department Emergency Services Instructor (Instructor I) (72438) April 6-14 (32 hours) Weatherford Fire Department Hazardous Materials Awareness for WMD-HazMat Emergencies (72656) April 6 (8 hours) Church of Christ, Beaver, OK Oklahoma Emergency Vehicle Drivers Training (72847) April 6 (8 hours) Comanche Fire Department Rope Rescue: Low Angle Operations (72878) April 6 (8 hours) Drumright Fire Department Hazardous Materials Awareness for WMD-HazMat Emergencies Certification (72657) April 6 (1 hour) Church of Christ, Beaver, OK

Fire Fighter I Live Burn (72330) April 7 (8 hours) Ardmore Fire Department Fire Fighter I Live Burn Evaluation (72331) April 7 (8 hours) Ardmore Fire Department Hazardous Materials Operations Certification (71709) April 7 (8 hours) Northeast Tech Center - Afton Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher - Part A (71238) April 8 (8 hours) Oklahoma City Fire Department Hazardous Materials Operations: Core Competencies (72060) April 8-10 (24 hours) Tulsa Fire Safety Training Center Emergency Services Instructor (Instructor I) (72959) April 8-11 (32 hours) • $3000 - All Participants Claremore Fire Department Hazardous Materials Operations for WMD Refresher (71217) April 9 (8 hours) Blackwell Fire Department Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher - Part A (71239) April 9 (8 hours) Oklahoma City Fire Department Fire Officer II: NFPA 1021, 2014 Edition (71908) April 9-12 (40 hours) • $3000 - Oklahoma Responders • $5000 - Out-of-state Responders Edmond Fire Department NIMS ICS 300 Intermediate ICS for Expanding Incidents (72887) April 9-10 (16 hours) Quapaw Tribe Fire / EMS Hazardous Materials Operations for WMD Refresher (71220) April 10 (8 hours) Blackwell Fire Department Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher - Part A (71240) April 10 (8 hours) Oklahoma City Fire Department NIMS ICS 400 (EMI) Advanced Incident Command System (72636) April 10-11 (16 hours) Comanche Co EOC - Great Plains Tech Center

Hazardous Materials Operations for WMD Refresher (71221) April 11 (8 hours) Blackwell Fire Department NFA - Leadership In Supervision: Creating Environments for Professional Growth (F0646) (71252) April 11-12 (16 hours) Heritage Center - Perry Industrial: 8 Hr. Flammable Liquid and Gas (FLAG) Live Fire Training (72479) April 11 (8 hours) • $55600 - Industrial / Military Phillips 66 - Bartlesville NIMS ICS 300 Intermediate ICS for Expanding Incidents (72893) April 11-12 (16 hours) American Red Cross - Tulsa NIMS ICS 400 (EMI) Advanced Incident Command System (72913) April 11-12 (16 hours) High Plains Tech - Woodward Hazardous Materials Operations Certification (72062) April 12 (8 hours) Tulsa Fire Safety Training Center Hazardous Materials Operations: Core Competencies (72186) April 12-14 (24 hours) Eufaula Community Center Industrial: 8 Hr. Flammable Liquid and Gas (FLAG) Live Fire Training (72411) April 13 (8 hours) • $67100 - Industrial / Military ONEOK Partners Fire Inspector I Certification (72196) April 13 (8 hours) • $1000 - Challenge Fee OSU-FST Classroom, Stillwater Industrial: 8 Hr. Flammable Liquid and Gas (FLAG) Live Fire Training (72412) April 14 (8 hours) • $67100 - Industrial / Military ONEOK Partners Hazardous Materials Awareness for WMD-HazMat Emergencies (72906) April 14 (8 hours) Kingston Community Center Hazardous Materials Operations: Core Competencies (71244) April 15-17 (24 hours)

Moore Training Center Fire Fighter II Academy (71518) April 15-18 (40 hours) • $6500 - All Participants OSU-PSC, Stillwater Hazardous Materials Awareness for WMD-HazMat Emergencies Train the Trainer (72659) April 15 (8 hours) Tulsa Fire Academy Fire Fighter II Academy (72311) April 15-26 (40 hours) • $4500 - All Participants Pontotoc Tech Center - Ada Hazardous Materials Operations for WMD Refresher (71222) April 16 (8 hours) Sapulpa Fire Department NIMS ICS 300 Intermediate ICS for Expanding Incidents (72889) April 16-17 (16 hours) Wagoner County Emergency Hazardous Materials Operations for WMD Refresher (71223) April 17 (8 hours) Sapulpa Fire Department OEM-MGT 415 Disaster Recovery for Rural Communities (72371) April 17 (8 hours) Canadian Valley Tech - Chickasha Wildland Firefighting 8 Hr. Refresher (72789) April 17 (8 hours) Coffeyville Resources, Kansas Trench Rescue Technician Level II (72879) April 17-18 (16 hours) Chickasha Fire Department Hazardous Materials Operations for WMD Refresher (71224) April 18 (8 hours) Sapulpa Fire Department Hazardous Materials Operations Certification (71246) April 19 (8 hours) Moore Training Center Pump Operations (72866) April 20 (8 hours) Clinton Fire Department Hazardous Materials Operations for WMD Refresher (71225) April 22 (8 hours) Altus Fire Department

Oklahoma FirefighterApril 201921

April 2019 CLASS SCHEDULE

n

Dr. Erick Reynolds OSU FST Director

continued

erick.reynolds@osufst.org 405-744-5727 (W) • 405-409-0961 (C)

All courses are FREE unless otherwise noted NIMS ICS 300 Intermediate ICS for Expanding Incidents (71715) April 22-23 (16 hours) Cherokee Nation EMS - Tahlequah

Oklahoma Emergency Vehicle Drivers Training (72958) April 27 (8 hours) Cleo Springs Fire Department

Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher - Part A (71983) April 22 (8 hours) Yukon Fire-EMS Training Center

Hazardous Materials Awareness for WMD-HazMat Emergencies (73227) April 27 (8 hours) Wagoner Civic Center

Hazardous Materials Operations for WMD Refresher (71226) April 23 (8 hours) Altus Fire Department EMS Instructor Update (72942) April 23 (8 hours) • $500 - All Participants Enid Fire Department EMS Instructor Workshop / Bridge (73394) April 23 (8 hours) • $650 - All Participants Enid Fire Department OEM NE Area Workshop (73364) April 23-25 (16 hours) Sequoyah State Park Hazardous Materials Operations for WMD Refresher (71228) April 24 (8 hours) Weatherford Fire Department Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher - Part A (71241) April 24 (8 hours) Ada Fire Department NIMS ICS 400 (EMI) Advanced Incident Command System (71716) April 24-25 (16 hours) Cherokee Nation EMS - Tahlequah

fire service training

Hazardous Materials Awareness for WMD-HazMat Emergencies Certification (73228) April 27 (1 hour) Wagoner Civic Center Fire Fighter II Vehicle Extrication Evaluation (72323) April 28-May 1 (4 hours) Green Country Fire & Rescue Fire Fighter I Live Burn (72569) April 28 (8 hours) High Plains Tech - Woodward Fire Fighter I Live Burn Evaluation (72570) April 28 (8 hours) High Plains Tech - Woodward Hazardous Materials Operations Certification (72188) April 28 (8 hours) Eufaula Community Center Hazardous Materials Operations for WMD Refresher (71227) April 29 (8 hours) Altus Fire Department Hazardous Materials Operations for WMD Refresher (71230) April 29 (8 hours) Muskogee Fire Department

Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher - Part A (71242) April 26 (8 hours) Stillwater Fire Department

Hazardous Materials Operations for WMD Refresher (71234) April 29 (8 hours) Shawnee Fire Dept - Station 3

Vehicle Rescue Technician Level I Part A (72322) April 27-28 (16 hours) Green Country Fire & Rescue, Sand Springs

Hazardous Materials Operations: Core Competencies (72222) April 29-May 11 (24 hours) Pontotoc Tech Center - Ada

Fire Fighter I Certification (72568) April 27 (8 hours) High Plains Tech - Woodward

Hazardous Materials Operations for WMD Refresher (71231) April 30 (8 hours) Muskogee Fire Department

OEM- AWR 147 Rail Car Incident Response (72793) April 27 (8 hours) Comanche Co EOC - Great Plains

Hazardous Materials Operations for WMD Refresher (71235) April 30 (8 hours) Shawnee Fire Dept - Station 3

Greetings Oklahoma’s BEST! It continues to be crazy busy here at FST. Our folks sometimes meet themselves coming and going in an effort to do all we can for Oklahoma firefighters!

Spring is trying to show up after a long, cold and arduous Winter 2018/2019. At this writing, it is 11 degrees outside!

The OKEFO class is well into its 2019 cohort with 18 class members getting to know each other better and learning from talented fire leaders from around Oklahoma and this region! We expect great results when this group graduates in November 2019!

The greatest compliment I have ever heard in regards to the OKEFO class came from someone who works for a graduate of this prestigious offering. We appreciate the support of all the various entities that sent students to take advantage of this incredible learning opportunity!

The annual OSFA State Fire School May 2-5 is hosted again by Tulsa Fire and Tulsa Community College on the TCC campus. Please take advantage of this opportunity to learn

n

from fire service leaders from Oklahoma and across the U.S. Another great learning opportunity will take place at the 125th OSFA Convention June 5-8 Ponca City!

We continue to be very appreciative of the opportunities afforded FST to partner with the OSFA on the $2.1 million SAFER Grant during 2019. There are many opportunities to take part in a Firefighter I class, as well and many other classes that have been approved to be conducted under the auspices of the SAFER Grant!

Thank you to all our training partners across the State of Oklahoma! We could not do what we do without your continued support!

Together we are better. Do we always agree? No. But as long as we all have our eye on the ball and spend each and every day trying to do right by Oklahoma firefighters, we are headed in the right direction.

If every decision we make is the best one for Oklahoma firefighters, then, it is probably a pretty good decision! Take care out there and BE SAFE!

Page to ponder Rick Chisum

Okmulgee FD, Safety & Health Committee

Hello Ladies, Gentlemen, Probies, Retirees, Career, Volunteers, Union, Non Union … whew, too much.

Brother and Sister Firefighters … awe, much better!

Hopefully as you read over this, while we do vary, a common thread weaves us together -- firefighters. And while we find ourselves in various levels, skills and opinions, both safety and health are found in each and every day.

We can appreciate lessons learned and taught, but we must always find ourselves erring on the side of safety, thus protecting our health and those alongside or under our command.

Safety -- to purposely lead or participate in such a manner as to lesson harm or injury to both ourselves, co-workers and those we serve.

Health -- to promote choice and lifestyles that render wellness to all regardless of age, abilities or other factors. Always looking to be proficient, not slacking or passive.

I was hired in August 1989 at the Okmulgee Fire Department. One of the first things drilled into me was this: “If you can’t be part of the solution, don’t be part of the problem.”

That makes since, no real biggie … But wait.

Man, that is deep. Everything, every day, relates to that. And if you choose to ignore that, you’re still participating by default. And nobody wants

to go by default on anything.

So really, how hard is it to be proactive? It’s all about a mind set. Just like our mind set to fight fire.

Here’s an example: I have a friend that had a close call without a seat belt on years ago. The result: he wears a seat belt, period.

This same friend made it his mission to engage friends to insure they don’t experience their close call. I’m one of those that he reached out to … I now wear a belt. Even if it’s just up our dirt road to the neighbors (my wife used to laugh at me, but she buckles up just like me now, along with all four granddaughters).

It’s no miracle, but it works … both safety and health. Seriously, you are the only one who’s gonna carry this. You’ve got to both enforce yourself and those around you. There’s not a negative here, it’s a plain and simple win-win.

So whether it’s simple as all the heavy stuff on the lower shelves, lighter goes higher or a major SOP/SOG change on a Unified Command … it works.

We must be consistent and untiring in always being safe as possible, and in doing so insuring our health and theirs, as well. It’s no shame to want to retire healthy for everyone. If we don’t work it and practice it, don’t worry it won’t do it on it’s own.

Talk it, work it, make it happen. Be safe, be healthy, retire healthy.

22April 2019Oklahoma Firefighter ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF Chase Rankin Executive Director

James Reynolds

6601 Broadway Ext., Oklahoma City, OK 73116 405-522-4600 • 1-800-525-7461 toll free • 405-522-4643 fax www.okfirepen.state.ok.us

Member Services Coordinator

Terri Williams Executive Secretary

Than Dinh

Assistant Director (COO)

Controller

Tim Van Horn

Keely Swonger

Assistant Director (CFO)

Martha Pierce Vicki Mulbery

Accounts Payable Administrator

Thelisha Clark

Records Administrator

Assistant Controller

Latoya Battle Data Processor

n CONSENT AGENDA (March 15, 2019) CHECKS TERMINATED IN FEBRUARY 2018:

$5,000.00 DEATH BENEFIT:

Arkoma Jimmy Christian Anadarko Sara G. Norton Apache Agnes Smith Orf Bartlesville Miles R. Baker Davis Peggy C. White Edmond David R. Jones Maud Kay D. Goss Minco Pauline Holding Muskogee Lyman M. Beard OKC Jessie L. Randel Ringwood Robert J. Foster Stigler Doris R. Barnett Temple Betty J. Kindred Tulsa Shelby F. Rice Watonga Shirley L. Collier

APPLICATION FOR ENTRANCE INTO THE PENSION SYSTEM

Bethany Bethany Clinton Edmond Fairfax Jenks Jenks Jenks Jenks Jenks Kiowa Maud Muskogee Muskogee OKC Spavinaw Tulsa Wewoka

Ardmore Bethany Coalgate Coalgate Edmond Edmond Hugo Kingfisher McLoud Moore Moore Moore Newcastle Nicoma Park Perry Perry Ponca City Newcastle Tecumseh The Village Woodward Yukon Yukon

Lost Contact Deceased Deceased Deceased Deceased Deceased Deceased Deceased Deceased Deceased Deceased Deceased Deceased Deceased Deceased

McKenna C. Ray Ryan Corn Jared Griffin Jackson Lee Tyler Swafford Garrett Worley Jeffrey Epley Tyler Girard Josh Jenkins Matthew Conklin Chase Griggs Garrett Rempe Conner Bost Kyle Stewart Katie Fitzpatrick Kolt Vanmeter Patrick Irwin Cameron Hodges Joseph Morales Clinton Roberts Austin Flynt Jared Heinrick Kye Muzny

Mercer-Adams Funeral Home On Behalf Of Milton W. Hoskins Mercer-Adams Funeral Home On Behalf Of Garland J. Nance Vonita Unruh, Widow Of Nolan Unruh Matthews Funeral Home On Behalf Of David R. Jones Hunsaker-Wooten Funeral Home On Behalf Of Laster D. McConnell Paul W. Jenkins, Grandchild Of Pauld S. Jenkins Sr. Jordan Jenkins, Grandchild Of Paul S. Jenkins Sr. Shawna Moore, Grandchild Of Paul S. Jenkins Sr. Jessica Gates, Grandchild Of Paul S. Jenkins Sr. Stacy Norton, Grandchild Of Paul S. Jenkins Sr. Bobbie J. Cearley, Widow Of Dan J. Cearley Swearingen Funeral Home On Behalf Of Kay D. Goss Peggy Jones, Child Of Charles Hickey Linda Ross, Child Of Charles Hickey Havenbrook Funeral Home On Behalf Of Daniel B. Hyer Lawson’s Funeral Home On Behalf Of Bruce E. Trout Sondra Mauldin, Widow Of Mark C. Mauldin Criswell Funeral Home On Behalf Of Seth Mason

APPLICATION FOR SURVIVING SPOUSE FOR CONTINUATION: 03/01/2019 03/01/2019 03/01/2019 03/01/2019 03/01/2019 03/01/2019 03/01/2019 03/01/2019 03/01/2019 03/01/2019 03/01/2019 03/01/2019 03/01/2019

Ardmore Bartlesville Broken Arrow Calumet Covington Crescent Fairfax Loyal Marshall Reydon Stroud Stroud Tulsa

Joyce Reed, Widow Of Austin E. Reed Jerolene Henricks, Widow Of Robert T. Hendricks Thelma Rutherford, Widow Of Randall Rutherford Betty M. Evans, Widow Of Thomas J. Evans Theda S. Scott, Widow Of Raymond R. Scott Debra E. Wallace, Widow Of Clinton D. Wallace Sherry McConnell, Widow Laster D. McConnell Ruth A. Bilderback, Widow Of James N. Bilderback Delilah Rouse, Widow Of Bill G. Rouse Pauline Pennington, Widow Of Larry D. Pennington Dorothy McFarland, Widow Of Floyd E. McFarland Geneva E. Wintz, Widow Of Richard L. Wintz Patty Zickefoose, Widow Of James G. Zickefoose

APPLICATION FOR SERVICE PENSION: 01/01/2019 01/01/2019 03/14/2019 03/01/2019 03/01/2019 03/01/2019 03/01/2019 03/31/2019 08/08/2017 01/01/2019 03/01/2019 01/01/2019 02/01/2019 03/01/2019 03/01/2019 03/01/2016 03/01/2019

Atoka Barnsdall Beaver Broken Arrow Cooperton Devol Dover Foss Hulbert Kingfisher Madill Morris Newkirk Oklahoma City Tishomingo Tyrone Watonga

Edward R. Eastwood Joseph Kelley Mark H. Tillman Charles E. Carlile John Vanderpol Greg L. Powell Bobby G. Gardner Gabriel C. Snider Mark Graham Billy D. Murray Charley D. Sprouse Kevin D. Thornbrugh Melissa M. Bradley Douglas E. Wright Michael D. Walker Bart Banning Verlen A. Bills

APPLICATION FOR VESTED BENEFIT: 08/01/2024 10/01/2019 01/01/2018

Collinsville Mannsville Roland

Timothy J. Cole Charlie D. Gray Robert D. Cox

REFUND OF CONTRIBUTIONS: Brayden Drew Harrah

Kody Willcutt Kingfisher

Hiresd 04/01/2007 Terminated: 12/19/2018 Hired: 12/01/2016 Terminated: 12/28/2018

APPLICATION FOR SURVIVING SPOUSE: 02/22/2019 01/26/2019

Lone Wolf OKC

Sherri Harris, Widow Of Ricky Joe Harris (Deceased 02/21/19) Sara Hyer, Widow Of Daniel Hyer (Deceased 1/26/19)

Why Suicide is not the Answer for a Firefighter’s Personal Struggles By: Stan Popovich

You are a firefighter and you are the end of your rope, and you can’t take it any much longer.

You are suffering from anxiety, depression, guilt or some other fear related issue and you feel there is no hope.

Although things may seem difficult suicide is not the answer to your personal struggles.

Here are six reasons why suicide is not the solution to your problems.

n 1. Things Change Over Time Regardless of your situation, things do not stay the same. You may feel very bad today, but it won’t last forever.

Remember this fact: Regardless of your current situation, everything changes over time. This includes your current situation.

Nothing remains the same forever.

n 2. There Are Always Other Options...

Always You may feel lost and confused, but the answers to your specific problems are out there. The key is that you have to find the answers. The answers to your problem will not come to you.

As mentioned before, the first step in finding the solution to your problem is to seek help from a qualified professional. n 3. You Can’t Predict The Future

You are fearful, confused and do not know where to turn. You think that there is no hope for you. When you are in this situation, remember the 99 percent rule.

The 99 percent rule states that that no one can predict the future with 100 percent certainty. Even if the thing that you are afraid of does happen, there are circumstances and factors that you can’t predict which can be used to your advantage.

For instance, you miss the deadline for a project you have been working on for the

last few months. Everything you feared is coming true. Suddenly, your boss comes to your office and tells you that the deadline is extended and that he forgot to tell you the day before. This unknown factor changes everything.

We may be 99 percent correct in predicting the future, but all it takes is for that 1 percent to make a world of difference. n 4. Focus On The Facts of Your Situation and Not Your Thoughts When people are depressed they rely on their fearful, depressing, and negative thoughts. That is a huge mistake. Your fearful thoughts are exaggerated and are not based on reality.

When you are depressed, focus on the facts of your current situation and not on what you think. Do not assume anything regarding your current situation. Seek help from a professional immediately.

n 5. Go To The Hospital Immediately

When It’s That Bad If things are so bad that you are unable to function, drop everything and go to your local hospital or crisis center immediately. The people there will take care of your situation right away. n 6. No Situation Is Hopeless Your loved ones, friends, relatives, God, mental health counselors, priests, ministers, etc. are all good sources of help. They are all willing to help you and they can make a difference, but you must be willing to take advantage of this help.

Regardless of your situation, take advantage of the help that is around you. Remember: Every problem has a solution. You just have to find it.

Stan Popovich is the author of “A Layman’s Guide to Managing Fear”. For more information about Stan and to get some more free mental health advice, visit Stan’s website at www. managingfear.com.

Oklahoma FirefighterApril 201923

n MEETING (February 15, 2019) Bobby W. Johnson/Chandler - Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective February 1, 2019: Motion was made by Vanhorn and seconded by Kelley to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective February 1, 2019. Ayes: Kelley, Cassady, Vanhorn, Davidson, Combs, Manek, Kohls, and Rodriguez. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Charlie O. Ralls/Comanche – Application For “Disability In Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective February 1, 2019: Motion was made by Vanhorn and seconded by Rodriguez to modify the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, to “Service”, effective February 1, 2019. Ayes: Kelley, Cassady, Vanhorn, Davidson, Combs, Manek, Kohls, and Rodriguez. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Jeffrey Zelnicek/Edmond - Application For “Disability In Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective Feb.1, 2019: Motion was made by Kelley and seconded

by Lay to approve Application for “Disability in Line of Duty”, effective Feb. 1, 2019. Ayes: Kelley, Cassady, Vanhorn, Davidson, Combs, Manek, and Rodriguez. Nayes: Kohls. Motion carried.

Tifford D. McConnell/Holdenville- Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective February 1, 2019: Motion was made by Vanhorn and seconded by Kelley to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, to “Service”, effective January 1, 2019. Ayes: Kelley, Cassady, Vanhorn, Davidson, Combs, Manek, Kohls, and Rodriguez. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Rex K. Scrudder/Lawton- Application For “Disability In Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective February 1, 2019: Motion was made by Vanhorn and seconded by Kelley to modify the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, to “Service”, effective February 1, 2019. Ayes: Kelley, Cassady, Vanhorn, Davidson, Combs, Manek, Kohls, and Rodriguez. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Carl T. Wade/Lawton - Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective February 1, 2019: Motion was made by Rodriguez and seconded by Vanhorn to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective February 1, 2019. Ayes: Kelley, Cassady, Vanhorn, Davidson, Combs, Manek, Kohls, and Rodriguez. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Robert J. Billeg/Oklahoma City - Application For “Disability In Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective February 1, 2019: Motion was made by Kelley and seconded by Combs to approve Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective February 1, 2019. Ayes: Messrs: Kelley, Cassady, Vanhorn, Davidson, Combs, Manek, Kohls, and Rodriguez.

Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Michael W. Coker/Oklahoma City - Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective February 1, 2019: Motion was made by Vanhorn and seconded by Kelley to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective February 1, 2019. Ayes: Kelley, Cassady, Vanhorn, Davidson, Combs, Manek, Kohls, and Rodriguez. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

William D. Fulton/Oklahoma City - Application For “Disability In Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective February 1, 2019: Motion was made by Rodriguez and seconded by Vanhorn to Modify the Application for “Disability in Line of Duty”, to “Service”, effective February 1, 2019. Ayes: Kelley, Cassady, Vanhorn, Davidson, Combs, Manek, Kohls, and Rodriguez. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Robert L. Rector/Oklahoma City - Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective February 1, 2019: Motion was made by Vanhorn and seconded by Rodriguez to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”,

effective February 1, 2019. Ayes: Kelley, Cassady, Vanhorn, Davidson, Combs, Manek, Kohls, and Rodriguez. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Richard B. Reynolds /Oklahoma City - Application For “Disability In Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective February 1, 2019: Motion was made by Vanhorn and seconded by Kelley to approve Application for “Disability in Line of Duty”, effective February 1, 2019. Ayes: Kelley, Cassady, Vanhorn, Davidson, Combs, Manek, Kohls, and Rodriguez.

Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Larry A. Selvey /Oklahoma City - Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective February 1, 2019: Motion was made by Vanhorn and seconded by Kelley to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective February 1, 2019. Ayes: Kelley, Cassady, Vanhorn, Davidson, Combs, Manek, Kohls, and Rodriguez. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Steve E. Taylor /Oklahoma City - Application For “Disability In Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective February 1, 2019: Motion was made by Vanhorn and seconded by Kelley to modify Application for “Disability in Line of Duty”, to “Service”, effective February 1, 2019. Ayes: Kelley, Cassady, Vanhorn, Davidson, Combs, Manek, Kohls, and Rodriguez.

Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Darrin C. Fowler/Shawnee - Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective February 1, 2019: Motion was made by Vanhorn and seconded by Ms. Kohls to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective February 1, 2019. Ayes: Kelley, Cassady, Vanhorn, Davidson, Combs, Manek, Kohls, and Rodriguez. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Brent J. McDaniel/Shawnee - Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective February 12, 2019: Motion was made by Rodriguez and seconded by Vanhorn to modify the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, to “Disability Not in the Line of Service”, effective February 12, 2019.Ayes: Kelley, Cassady, Vanhorn, Davidson, Combs, Manek, Kohls, and Rodriguez.

Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Alan C. Barnes/Tulsa - Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective February 1, 2019: Motion was made by Kelley and seconded

by Vanhorn to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective February 1, 2019. Ayes: Kelley, Cassady, Vanhorn, Davidson, Combs, Manek, Kohls, and Rodriguez. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Gerald W. Luschen/Tulsa - Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective February 1, 2019: Motion was made by Vanhorn and seconded by Combs to modify Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, to “Service” effective February 1, 2019. Ayes: Kelley, Cassady, Vanhorn, Davidson, Combs, Manek, Kohls, and Rodriguez. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Dudley Teeter/Lawton - Request To Modify Pension From “Service” To “Disability In The Line Of Duty”: Motion was made by Rodriguez and seconded by Vanhorn to approve the Request of Teeter to modify from “Service” to “Disability in the Line of Duty”. Ayes: Kelley, Cassady, Vanhorn, Davidson, Combs, Manek, Kohls, and Rodriguez.

Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Request To Declare In The Line Of Duty Death/ Daniel Hyer/Oklahoma City: Motion was made

by Vanhorn and seconded by Kelley to declare in the Line of Duty Death for Daniel Hyer/Oklahoma City. Ayes: Kelley, Cassady, Vanhorn, Davidson, Combs, Manek, Kohls, and Rodriguez. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

24April 2019Oklahoma Firefighter

n

OSFA Executive Board Highlights

The OSFA Executive Board met February 14, 2019, in the boardroom of the OSFA at 2716 NE 50th Street, Oklahoma City, OK at 9:06 a.m.

Roll Call: Dereck Cassady, present; Mike Kelley, present; Eric Harlow, present; Cliff Davidson, present; Matt Lay, present; Juan Rodriguez (ORFA), present.

Others: Steve Lumry, Gene Brown, Sheri Nickel, Tim Bartram, Trisha Chain, Dr. Erick Reynolds, Sean Douglas, Don Armes, Eric Hamilton.

Guests: Kris Masterman, KOPI Executive Director; Sabra Tucker, OK Retired Educator Assoc. Executive Director; Amanda Ewing, OK Education Assoc. Associate Executive Director.

Presentation: Keep Oklahoma’s Promises, Inc. (Masterman, Tucker, Ewing). Masterman thanked the Board for their time and explained that KOPI exists to protect all public servant retirement plans.

KOPI is primarily financed through the National Public Pension Coalition. Masterman, Tucker and Ewing complimented the organization and activism of firefighters and encouraged the OSFA to join the coalition as advocates.

Correspondence: Thank you card from Red Cross.

Fire Marshal Commission Report: Lay The Commission has a few bills they are working on and are monitoring them as they move through the legislature.

Fire Service Training Report: Reynolds Reynolds expressed his appreciation for the partnership with the OSFA and stated staff is busy keeping up with all the training they have scheduled.

COMMITTEE REPORTS n Legislative: Lumry, Armes The Senate will be harder to win over than the House will be in regards to the COLA. The COLA bill number has changed to HB 2304 by Frix. The tracking report and talking points are available in the Dropbox. The Pension Technical Correction bill has moved to committee. n Educational Advisory: Bartram State Fire School classes are scheduled and registration will be live soon. The PFFO will be sponsoring courses for union members. Tulsa Fire Department will absorb costs of the TCC usage fees.

The Board extends their appreciation to Tulsa for their willingness to place so much emphasis on the success of the OSFA State Fire School.

OSFA has been asked to sponsor a training weekend for women firefighters in the fall. n Volunteer Fire Service Will be meeting in the next two weeks and review the volunteer caucus. n EMS: Harlow Committee received an update on bills they are tracking and are moving forward with the task force exploring other funding options. Dale Adkerson submitted five courses to be offered at the State Fire School. n Membership: Committee The burial vault program previously discussed is now published on the OSFA website (www.osfa.info) as a benefit of membership. n County Sales Tax A meeting will be scheduled when answers are received from the Attorney General’s office.

February 14, 2019 MEETING

OSFA JOB OPENING: RECEPTIONIST The Oklahoma State Firefighters Association is seeking a self-motivated person with excellent communication and interpersonal skills for a full-time position.

Primary responsibilities include reception, answering phones, general office and administrative support duties. Organization and multi-tasking skills along with good verbal and written skills are essential.

Must be able to operate various office machines. Experience with software programs including MS Word, Excel and Outlook are preferred.

Schedule: Mon-Fri 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. with occasional out of town events requiring several overnight stays including the weekends.

Starting pay: $14 per hour with benefit package.

We are offering a full-time job with the opportunity for advancement. Once skills are proven and initiative is applied, consideration for promotion to administrative assistant may be negotiated.

If interested, please submit resume to sherin@osfa.info before April 17, 2019.

n Public Education: Brown Committee planned for their meeting with State Superintendent Joy Hofmeister. NFPA holds a Spotlight on Public Education (SOPE) Conference June 17-18 in San Antonio.

Lumry suggested sponsoring two members of the Public Education Committee to attend, with a prerequisite of attending the OSFA Convention as a delegate. Board requested to know the interest of the committee before approval.  Museum Report: Brown Brown encouraged board members to see the new truck from Stuart that is now displayed and being restored in the Museum. The Lawton truck is on the Lawton City Council agenda to be returned to Lawton, and staff is nearly complete in verifying that every item in the Museum is solely owned by the Museum.

Both hat and book sales have increased. n Museum Expansion Committee: Lumry Art Cotton is working with management team who handles multiple foundations. A new contact through the Adventure District may be able to help propose to city council that the Adventure District be included in the MAPS 4 project.

Volunteer Recruitment & Retention Report: Nickel The third Firefighter I class started this week. Due to the government shutdown, it is difficult to receive reimbursements or feedback from FEMA. New SAFER grant application period is now open and will be due March 22.

NVFC Report: Nickel NVFC is developing a video about wildland firefighting recruiting and asked if Nickel would be interested in being a part of it.

OFCA Report: Douglas Douglas expressed his appreciation for everyone’s participation in the Winter Workshop and is busy with preparation for the Conference in April.

The Legislative Committee has met but has taken no formal action and the ISO Committee is working on reviewing the Fire Suppression Rating Schedule. The Legislative Committee has requested to include the OFCA 3rd Vice President as a standing member of the OSFA Legislative Committee.

Executive Director’s Report: Lumry The return from 2019’s membership drive is at 67% with 380 departments and 7,645 members, including two new departments: Ardmore Air Park and Colony.

ORFA membership is at 4,439, Brent Hatcher Benevolent Fund is at 88, the digital Oklahoma Firefighter subscription is at 586.

Event totals: Volunteer Caucus 74, OFCA Pre-conference Workshop 102, Winter Workshop 131.

The Training and Benevolent Fund paperwork is completed and in the process of obtaining the 501(c)3 status.

Wagoner County Firefighter Combat Challenge requested a sponsorship - no action taken. Christian Ministers Alliance, Inc. requested a sponsorship for their event - no action taken.

OK-TIMS Committee has completed their goals and have dissolved the committee.

Lumry received a quote for maintenance work needed on the Memorial granite bed; Board discussed options.

Staff will make yearly inspections to determine if extra caulking will be needed before the pool is filled.

Old Business: Nickel read a Facebook message received from a firefighter thanking the OSFA and OSU-FST for the opportunity to attend the Firefighter I class in Duncan and complimenting the professional manner in which he was treated.

Board discussed posting the message in the Oklahoma Firefighter if he is OK with his message being published.

Adjourn: 11:33 a.m.

Next meeting: March 14, 2019

n FUNDRAISERS Moore Firefighter’s Santa Express 10th Annual Charity Golf Tournament Monday, April 29 at Moore Athletic Golf Club. For more details, see Page 26.

Canute Volunteer FD’s annual Fundraiser Fish Fry on Friday, May 3 from 5-8 p.m. at the Canute Fire Station. Fundraiser is by donation.

Calumet Fire and Rescue 8th Annual Dinner & Benefit Auction Saturday, May 11 at Calumet School.

Dinner 5-7 p.m., Auction 7-9 p.m. For more info, Terry Brungardt 405-203-2114.

Norman IAFF Local 2067 Golf Tournament Monday, May 13 at The Trails Golf Club. Four-man Scramble, 9 a.m. Shotgun Start. Benefits “Operation Warm.” For more info: Jordan 405-990-6809.

7th Annual Yukon Firefighters Golf Tournament Friday, June 21. $340 per team. For more info: Jeremy 405-760-1795 or Brent 405-317-0560.

Oklahoma FirefighterApril 201925

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Bed was removed, corner and complete side was replaced along with a new pass side door.

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26April 2019Oklahoma Firefighter

n OKLAHOMA FIRE SPOTLIGHT

BY GREG ROBERTS Norman FD Retired

FORT TOWSON FIRE DEPARTMENT

Fire Chief: Mike Burchfield FD Formed: May 2014 Personnel: 19 Volunteers Number of engines: 2 Number of brush pumpers: 4 Number of tankers: 1 Runs per year: Approx. 75

Engine 3 1994 International/E-One 1250 pump/1000 tank

Engine 2 1985 Ford/LTI 1000 pump/1000 tank

Population: 510

Ft. Towson Fire Department Fleet

JOIN US AT

MOORE ATHLETIC GOLF CLUB (920 SW 19th) Monday, April 29, 2019 at 9 a.m. for the

Moore Firefighter’s Santa Express 10th Annual Charity Golf Tournament

Moore Firefighters invite you to participate in their 10th Annual Charity Golf Tournament. Proceeds will be used by Moore’s Santa Express Program to provide gifts for underprivileged children within the community.

We hope to see you there!

• $70 per person / $280 per team • Four-Man Scramble • Registration at 8 a.m.

• Shot Gun Start at 9 a.m.

• Limited Space Available • Top Teams Receive Pro Shop Credits • Closest to Pin Prize on every Par 3 • Long Drive Contest Prize • Mulligans 2 for $10 or 1 for $5 • Mulligan Tickets also used for Raffle • Closest to Custom-Painted Fire Hydrant takes it home (you haul it) • Lunch served after Tournament For more information: Scott Lance 405-833-5389 Robert Crain 405-990-9907 Ronnie Rawson 405-823-4542

Moore Firefighter’s Santa Express Golf Tournament

Team Captain__________________________ Team Captain Phone #__________________ E-mail________________________________

Fort Towson Historical Facts In May 1824, a company of the U.S. Army Seventh Infantry established a camp on Gates Creek near the confluence of the Kiamichi and Red rivers in present Choctaw County, OK. The outpost, called “Cantonment Towson,” was named for Gen. Nathan Towson, a hero of the War of 1812 and then army paymaster general. The post was established as a fortification on the international boundary with Mexico (Texas), and as a curb to lawlessness in the region. It was also intended to serve as a buffer between Plains Indians to the west and the Choctaw, who were slated for removal to the area.

The post was abandoned in 1829 but was reestablished in 1830 as “Camp Phoenix” when the Treaty of Dancing Rabbit Creek was concluded with the Choctaw. The facility was soon renamed “Fort Towson.”

For the next several years, the post served as a terminal on the Choctaw Trail of Tears. During the Mexican War (1846–48) Fort Towson served as a staging area for troops headed

for Mexico. By the mid-1850s, however, it was left in the backwaters of a westward advancing frontier. The post was abandoned in 1854, and the remaining troops marched out to forts farther west.

Fort Towson witnessed a brief resurgence of importance during the Civil War when Gen. Samuel Bell Maxey chose it as headquarters for Confederate forces in Indian Territory. At the close of the conflict Cherokee Brig. Gen. Stand Watie surrendered at Doaksville, near the fort, becoming the last Confederate general officer to surrender.

Many historical figures have been associated with Fort Towson. Jefferson Davis, later president of the Confederacy, was stationed there as a young lieutenant, and Sam Houston was known to have visited there and in nearby Doaksville.

The Oklahoma Historical Society acquired the Fort Towson property in 1967.

Since then, numerous archaeological investigations have been done. A Visitor Center and sutler’s store are open to the public.

Player #1:_____________________________ Player #2:_____________________________ Player #3:_____________________________ Player #4:_____________________________

Send Payment & Form to: Moore Fire Department Attn: Santa Express 2400 S. Fritts Blvd., Moore, OK 73160

If you would like to see your FD featured in a future issue of Oklahoma Firefighter, please contact Greg Roberts at 405-424-1452 or groberts1960@gmail.com

Oklahoma FirefighterApril 201927

Now available to all OSFA members

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28April 2019Oklahoma Firefighter

ATHLETIX

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OKLAHOMA OFFICE 3601 N.W. 10th Street Oklahoma City, OK 73107 Phone: 405-945-0400

800-749-3552

When you go in, we go in with you OKLAHOMA SALES MANAGER Robert Schaumburg 318-458-4296 robert@cascoindustries.com

NORTHWEST, OK

Chris Fields 405-249-3400 cfields@cascoindustries.com

SOUTH CENTRAL, OK

Jeff Davenport 405-238-4504 jdavenport@cascoindustries.com

NORTHEAST, OK

Terry Graham 918-572-8333 tgraham@cascoindustries.com

SOUTHWEST, OK

Mark Richardson 580-467-4199 mrichardson@cascoindustries.com

NORTHEAST, OK - S. KANSAS Bill Erwin 580-763-1625 berwin@cascoindustries.com

800-551-8787 WWW.CASCOINDUSTRIES.COM

SOUTHEAST, OK

James Kuykendall 903-814-2839 jamesk@cascoindustries.com

SERVICE MANAGER Michael Schaumburg 318-560-7709 mschaumburg@cascoindustries.com