VIRGINIA LIFELINE 2ND QUARTER 2021 ISSUE

Virginia

LIFELINE 2nd Quarter 2021

The Official Publication of the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads

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Deadline for the Upcoming Issues of the VIRGINIA LIFELINE Deadline for future issues are as follows: December 15 for the 1st Quarter Issue March 15 for the 2nd Quarter Issue June 15 for the 3rd Quarter Issue August 15 for the Convention Issue September 15 for the 4th Quarter Issue Articles may be submitted by any member of the VAVRS, AVAVRS and VAJVRS. Feature articles are encouraged.

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

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

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

Business Card……………..$ 50.00

Parliamentary Corner Submitted by G. Kenneth Morgan, VAVRS Parliamentarian If your bylaws state that your parliamentary authority is “the latest version of Robert’s Rules of Order” you need to be sure that you are now using the 12th Edition. While the 12th edition contains a number of changes, you will find that the basic concepts used in your meetings have probably not changed from the 11th Edition. The biggest benefit of having the 12th edition is the clarification of some rules AND the fact that the book is slightly larger and the text is easier to read. If you want a list of the changes and updates, send a message to Ken@vavrs.com.

Some Common Mistakes in parliamentary procedure.

In studying parliamentary procedure, I wanted to share a couple of common mistakes that I see at meetings. If you have questions on any of these, let me know and I’ll send you the reference.

1. Do you ask for “abstentions” when taking a vote?

NO, “The chair should not call for abstentions when taking a vote, since the number of members who respond is meaningless.” Decisions are based on the number present and voting.

2. According to Robert’s rules, should proxy voting be allowed?

NO, Robert’s Rules discourages proxy voting since the member is not present to hear the discussions on the issue. However, the agency bylaws may allow for proxies.

3. Can the membership vote to suspend the bylaws?

NO, Rules in the bylaws cannot be suspended. Important that the bylaws include how to make edits if necessary. The bylaws should require advance notice for the vote.

4. What is the difference in standing rules and bylaws?

Standing rules are easier to change than bylaws and cover points of lesser importance than those in the bylaws.

Standing Rules may be changed without prior notice but bylaws require prior notice. Usually bylaw changes require a vote of the membership, where rules may be updated by the Board of Directors – depending on what the bylaws of your agency states.

5. Are there limitations on the authority of a Board of Directors?

Yes, the Board of Directors is limited by the bylaws stating the duties and powers given to the Board. The Board cannot delegate its power to an executive committee unless authorized to do so by the agency.

6. What is the quorum for a committee of 9 members?

Minimum number for valid business to be conducted is 5. (More than ½) Contact me if your agency is interested in having a class on parliamentary procedure. And if you want to get an opinion on your bylaws or parliamentary procedure, you can contact me at ken@vavrs.com.

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Virginia Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad Submitted by Bobby Hill, Social Media-Marketing Team Like many of you we are continuing to operate under COVID19 protocols. The good news, we saw a significant drop in COVID 19 patients being transported in February as compared to the previous month of January. We are deeply involved in providing operational and support team volunteers to assist with daily vaccine clinics across Virginia Beach.

We are preparing to hold our 45 annual Virginia Beach Rescue Squad Oyster Roast in March under different

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conditions. We generally hold this event inside the Virginia Beach Convention Center but we will be running a drive through event at our rescue squad headquarters at 740 Virginia Beach Blvd featuring the pickup of online orders for either a BBQ box meal or fried oyster box meal along with a cup of oyster stew.

The Virginia Beach Department of EMS Training Division kicked off two new citywide EMT classes in January and March. This will be followed by two more in June and several more classes later in the year.

At the present time, our squad has around 145 operational volunteers, plus an additional 50 support team members, along with 59 new recruits-interns working their way through the academy and Rescue 14 internal programs.

Exciting news for the ten Volunteer Rescue Squads of Virginia Beach. The City of Virginia Beach directed CARES Act funding to the Virginia Beach Department of EMS to assist the squads in offsetting the cost of purchasing ten new replacement ambulances by the volunteer squads.

Our portion of the CARES Act Funding will be used to assist with the purchasing of two replacement ambulances that were already in the planning stage.

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Auxiliary Skills and Leadership Does your Auxiliary need some?

Submitted by Eddie Ann Orndoff, AVAVRS Vice President Come one, come all. We’ve missed seeing you. Its time to come together and reconnect. More than a year has passed and it is hard to believe that the time is fast approaching for Rescue College and the AVAVRS 70th Anniversary Convention.

Most of you have heard of Rescue College, but have you ever attended? Rescue College offers members the opportunity to network with other members from around the state, make new friends and learn new things. The classes that are offered are very diverse. Some of our previous classes have included: Disaster Preparedness and Fund Raising along with taking proper minutes.

One class that is generally offered every year is parliamentary procedure. I know you are thinking “oh that again”. Each time that I have attended this class a different part of Roberts Rules of Order has been the topic of discussion. This year I am anticipating that this will be a very lively discussion.

We are coming out of a horrific time in history. Roberts Rules of Order was written in 1876. I have no doubt that our forefathers never conceived of trying to conduct business under such trying circumstances. But then instead of high-speed internet and cell phones, they had the pony express and had to write everything out by hand and get on a horse and take it to someone else. Thank goodness for the modern conveniences of today.

While we are still pulling together our class offerings and class schedules I am excited to see Rescue College taking shape. I invite all of you to attend and learn something new.

Respectfully submitted, Eddie Ann Orndoff, AVAVRS Vice President Official

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AVAVRS Celebrates 70 Years to the Rescue Submitted by Fay Browning, AVAVRS President In 1935 Julian Stanley Wise started the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads (VAVRS). We have no idea what was going through his mind except that he wanted his dream of helping people to be successful while saving lives.

Sixteen years later in 1951, Mrs. J. Paxton of Clifton Forge made the way for Auxiliaries to serve their senior crews and communities. Taking the first steps on this journey, they were armed with nothing but their dreams and visions. But together they charted that road to success. The choices that these ladies made are our destiny. It was a journey of creation, exploration, and uncertainty. It was a time to learn and a time to raise your hand to volunteer. They moved forward in a positive manner and each year we chart our course and each year the men and women of this Association become more successful. We have a golden opportunity to prosper and continue to help others.

For 70 years we have been successful and will continue to go forward, appreciating the course we have traveled and looking back to the successes of today and the hope for the volunteer movement of the future.

SUCCESS – It is not the things you get back, but the hearts you have touched that will determine your success in life. By the choices we make and by the attitudes we exhibit, we are influencing lives every day.

We are proud the AVAVRS is celebrating its 70th Anniversary this coming year, and look forward to celebrating at the 2021 Convention. My Theme this year is “70 Years to the Rescue” and my colors are red and white. We have come a long way in 70 years and accomplished many things. We are no longer known as the Ladies Auxiliary to the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads, but simply Auxiliary because we have several men as members of our Association. Former President Harry Householder was our first male President in 2015-2017.

We are not as large in number as we were, with currently 22 Auxiliaries and 242 members, and 41 living Life Members. We are proud to say we have quality rather than quantity. I am pleased to report that even in this Pandemic, the Auxiliaries have raised $123,023 this year to support their squads. This amazes me and even though it is on the local level, the VAVRS benefits from it because if it wasn’t for the local squads, there would be no VAVRS. Those squads which have an Auxiliary will vouch for that statement and are very supportive of their Auxiliary. Many Auxiliaries have been busy making masks and serving meals and water for First Responders. We lost three Life Members in 2020, but on a happier note, Life Member Virgie Miller from the Fredericksburg Auxiliary celebrated her 100th birthday. Unfortunately, Virgie passed away in 2021 along with Judy Matthews. We lost one Auxiliary this year. East Hanover Auxiliary’s Squad voted in September that they would be classified as Non-operational Members, and no longer considered an Auxiliary.

I would like to take this opportunity to invite you to attend our Auxiliary Organizational and Leadership Skills class at Rescue College in Blacksburg on June 18-19 at Virginia Tech. I promise you it will be a great opportunity to meet and greet, grip and grin, and learn something new for everyone.

As we continue on to the next 70 years, we are always looking for new members of our Association and encourage any Auxiliary out there that may be interested in joining, please contact me at faybrowning@comcast.net or Vice President Eddie Ann Orndoff at orndoffe@gmvrs.org. We would love to hear from you and talk with you about joining our Association.

Thank all of you for your service to your Squads, Auxiliaries, Juniors, Districts, and communities!

Please continue to stay safe and wear a mask!

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Colonial Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad Announces Officers for 2021 & Top Call Runners for 2020 Patricia FitzGerald named Top Call Runner Wesley Melson & Robert Rivenbark honored with Life Membership Submitted by Sara Hunt, PR Colonial Beach, VA (Jan. 14, 2021) – Colonial Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad (CBVRS) has installed officers for 2021, recognized Top Call Runners for 2020, and named two new Life Members.

Administrative Officers for 2021 are: President – Robert Rivenbark

Vice President – Nick Szobota Secretary – Krystal Eldred Treasurer – Pat FitzGerald Operational Line Officers for 2021 are: Chief - Joey Straughan Assistant Chief – Pat FitzGerald CBVRS Chief Joey Straughan noted that the squad responded to 991 calls for service in 2020, a 4 percent increase over the calls from 2019. Assistant Chief Pat FitzGerald was the squad’s Top Call Runner for 2020 with 888 calls. Other members in the Top Call Runner list for 2020 were Chief Straughan, Krystal Eldred, Les Greeley, Nick Szobota, Holden Oliff and Donna Shelar.

Wesley Melson and Robert Rivenbark were named new Life Members of CBVRS. Life Membership denotes the highest level of service and commitment to the EMS mission of CBVRS. Both men have been involved in EMS work for over 15 years each, and Melson had been a member of the Colonial Beach Junior squad in his younger years.

“Congratulations to Pat, Wesley and Bobby for their welldeserved recognitions,” said Chief Straughan. “I would like to thank each member of CBVRS who pushed forward through this very difficult time caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Also, I would like to thank each of our neighboring Fire and EMS Departments, Sheriff’s Offices and Police Departments for their continued support to our organization. Special thanks go to the citizens and local businesses for their generous financial contributions to CBVRS, and also to Support Team member Diane Anderson for treating our members to lots of home-baked goodies throughout this trying year. It’s our privilege to provide EMS services to the great people of Colonial Beach and Westmoreland County.”

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Scholarships anyone?

To apply for any of the VAVRS Scholarships is a lot easier now! There is only one application to fill out for the: Julian S Wise, Anne J. Gwaltney, Kelly G. Southard and Sylvia & Garry Clatterbuck Scholarships.

Since the applications have been combined into one, only the new application will be accepted.

Applications are due by June 15. The application can be found on the VAVRS Website or

contact Carolyn Brand at 804 746.2289.

General Criteria for all: Ø You must be accepted at a fully accredited college or University or waiting acceptance at an institution that meets these criteria. Ø You or your parent must have been a member of the VAVRS, AVAVRS, or VAJVRS for at least 2 years. Ø You may not have received this scholarship before.

Individual Criteria Julian S. Wise Scholarship Ø You may also be a Grandchild of a member with five (5) or more years of service in the VAVRS or AVAVRS Anne J. Gwaltney Scholarship Ø You must be less than 35 years old to apply Ø Members of District 3 take priory Sylvia & Garry Clatterbuck Scholarship Ø You may also be a Grandchild of a member with five (5) or more years of service in the VAVRS or AVAVRS

Ø The amount of EMS work or EMS qualifications matter the most Kelly G. Southard Scholarship Ø You must be less than 65 years old to apply Kevin Dillard Leaders of Tomorrow Scholarship Ø You must be a High School Senior or current College student Ø You must be going into the Medical field Award: Ø Application must be received by June 15. The winner is announced at the annual Conference. Ø Applications sent to: cbrand2289@gmail.com or Carolyn Brand, 8354 Rustic Lane, Official

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Madison County RS Rappahannock County Cross Country Coach Kenny Burt collapsed Wednesday afternoon during a race in Madison County. He was transported via helicopter to UVA University Hospital in Charlottesville for further treatment and observation. Held at Hoover Ridge Park in Madison County, Burt buckled to the ground as he went to check on one of his female runners who had just finished her race.

Madison County Athletic Trainer Kathryn Crouthamel, nearly at her finish line post, quickly made her way to the scene. Crouthamel had an automatic external defibrillator (AED) with her and used it on Burt.

Madison County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrived and helped perform CPR until medics from Madison County Emergency Medical Services began drug therapy.

Minutes later, Burt positively responded to treatment and was able to speak. His first comments inquired how his girls had done in the race. A helicopter arrived, settled down on the Madison County Soccer Field where rescue personnel loaded him for a ride to UVA University Hospital in Charlottesville for further treatment and observation. Retired Madison Athletic Director Phil Warren who also saw Burt collapse said Crouthamel saved the coach’s life. “[Kathryn} is a really good trainer,” Warren said. “I’ve seen a lot of gruesome injuries over the years I’ve been AD but today was the worse. Kathryn did a really good job.”

Rappahannock Assistant Varsity Coach Lindsey Wangsgard said coach Burt had rotator cuff surgery a few weeks ago.

She also said both Rapp teams are “dedicated runners that love him.” The team had a prayer after the squad left for the soccer field. MadRapp photos by Chuck Jackson.

VAVRS Chaplain Submitted by Nick Brown We have come up on the 1-year anniversary of what we now call the COVID pandemic. This has been one of the most trying times I have ever experienced in my 37-year career. It has drained us all in one way or another. As we continue to navigate this new normal, our goals have not changed. We are still doing the jobs that we love and continue to provide services to our communities. I don’t often use the term “Hero”, but that is what you folks are. You place yourselves in harms way every day and always do your best.

With all of the stress and challenges we have faced, our health suffers, in particular, our mental health. If we don’t have a way to deal with the stress, it can have devastating effects on our lives as well as our families lives. There are many ways to cope and deal with stress and not all of them are healthy. It is vitally important that we find healthy ways to cope.

We offer a great class within VAVRS. The Mental Health First Aid class is worth looking into. I implore each of you to find someone you can confide in to talk to. Take time to take care of yourself so that you are able to care for others. If you have a church you attend, speak to your pastor. Take a break if you need one. You own health and well being to the most important.

I continue to pray for you that you will be safe. I am available if a need arises. I can be reached by phone or email. Lastly, if you have an illness or a passing of a member of your agency, please let me know. I would be happy to send a card. May the Lord Bless you and keep you.

Nick Brown Chaplain ne.brown.ff.emti@gmail.com

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From the Legislative Attic Submitted by Ed Rhodes So whichever version of the 2021 General Assembly session you are looking for – they are SINE DIE or adjourned. The 2021 G/A Regular session lasted 30 days, which is constitutionally correct, but legislators could not get an agreement to go the extra 15 or days to get to 45 for the ‘Short Session”. The Governor called for a Special Session in order to get all of the legislation introduced taken care of. The session ended on February 27 and officially adjourned on March 1st. You think parliamentary procedure is bad around here, try following this routine. On March 17th they are having “Pro Forma” sessions that last about 5 minutes each.

The number of bills and resolutions introduced by legislators numbered 1,555 with 1013 considered introduced for the Special Session. A number of the bills were left in committee and not heard when the Special Session began on February 10th. So now here is a summary of some of the bills that were tracked and are important to EMS providers.

SB1445 – this is a COVID-19 bill that increased the number of vaccinators statewide, but only in a declared emergency. Senator Dunnavant (R-Henrico) patroned the bill and after a number of amendments to allow volunteer EMS providers to be included, passed both houses without a single negative vote. This bill facilitates the administration of the COVID-19 vaccine by making eligible health care providers (dentists and any person licensed by the Department of Health Professions who is in good standing 20 years prior to lapsing and EMS providers who are licensed or certified by the VDH and within good standing within 20 years prior to lapsing also. This bill was worked on by many including VAVRS, VAGEMSA, RDG and VAA. The Governor signed the bill on February 15, 2021 with the emergency clause and it is now in effect.

HB1818 – started off adding salaried and volunteer EMS providers to the hypertension/heart presumption code. Amendment came from one area to make this a local option (localities deciding to pass a resolution to provide this presumption or any of the others), and the locality controlling the minimum number of hours a provider “works”. This bill was sent to a conference committee which struck the minimum hours language and passed.

SB1275 – this bill is the same as HB1818, but it is further along as it has been sent to the Governor’s office for signature.

HB2207 / SB1375 – both of these bills started off their journey in a different posture. The House bill began covering fire (EMS are included in this definition), and correctional officer, with a retroactive date for coverage of March 12, 2020 and ending on December 31, 2021.

The Senate bill started off covering only firefighters (EMS is included in this definition also), but had a requirement for physicals that only applied to those hired after January 1, 2021. The retroactivity date was in the “enactment” clause beginning March 1, 2020 without an ending date. This bill was amended to cover firefighters (EMS also), law enforcement officer (long list here), correctional officer and added in the conference report regional jail officer.

The effective date was changed from March 12, 2020 to September 1, 2020 with death or disability prior to December 31, 2021. Both of these bills are the same and have passed both houses and are now in the hands of the Governor.

These are just a half a dozen bills that VAVRS Legislative Committee worked on beginning in November 2020 through the end of the session. We had numerous ZOOM conference calls during this time frame to make sure our position is the correct position. There were also some other COVID-19 bills, such as Official

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HB1985 which is a presumption for health care workers; HB1989 which requires callers requesting an ambulance to insure that if the patient is COVID-19 positive that the dispatcher is told that information.

My thanks to the members of the Legislative Committee for their assistance and willingness to register to speak to these bills virtually rather than in person. Any questions please feel free to contact me.

The following House Joint Resolutions were recognized by the Virginia State Legislature honoring the lives of Robert “Bob” G. Wingfield, VAVRS Life Member and Kelly B. Walters, VAVRS Life Member, Past President and Member of the Virginia Lifesaving and Rescue Hall of Fame:

HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 770 Offered February 2, 2021 Celebrating the life of Robert George Wingfield ---------Patrons-- McNamara; Senator: Suetterlein ---------WHEREAS, Robert George Wingfield, a husband, father, grandfather, mentor, friend, teacher, and longtime leader in the Roanoke emergency medical services community, died on December 25, 2020; and WHEREAS, Robert "Bob" Wingfield was born in Newark, New Jersey, and graduated from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, where he was a proud Hokie and member of the Virginia Tech Corp of Cadets; and WHEREAS, after graduating, Bob Wingfield enlisted with the United States Army, serving his country with courage and valor during the Vietnam War; and WHEREAS, following his military service, Bob Wingfield served as a manager at Hop-In and U-Haul and founded Communications Plus, where he had an outlet for his passion for fixing radios and electronics; and WHEREAS, Bob Wingfield began his extensive volunteer career as an emergency medical technician with the Williamson Road Life Saving Crew, now Roanoke Emergency Medical Services, later transferring to the Cave Spring Volunteer Rescue Squad; and WHEREAS, over 35 years running emergency medical services calls with the Cave Spring Volunteer Rescue Squad, Bob Wingfield served in various leadership positions, including first lieutenant, building sergeant, and treasurer, and was awarded life membership in 1985; and WHEREAS, a search and rescue instructor for the Virginia Department of Emergency Management for 27 years, Bob Wingfield was active in various search and rescue councils in the Roanoke area; in addition, he was a member of the Civil Air Patrol and was honored with the Virginia Search and Rescue Council's Lisa Hannon Award in 2005; and WHEREAS, since its inception in 2017, Bob Wingfield tirelessly served the Heart Alert Community Training Center in Roanoke as vice president, instructor trainer, and training center faculty member; and WHEREAS, Bob Wingfield was highly involved in the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads (VAVRS), serving previously as the organization's historian and as District 6 vice president for four years; and WHEREAS, Bob Wingfield supported volunteer management and other activities at VAVRS through his work on several committees and took great joy in supporting the organization's Hall of Fame Committee and its Julian Stanley Wise Foundation; and WHEREAS, Bob Wingfield bolstered search and rescue education in the Commonwealth through his work as (Continued on page 14)

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an instructor with the VAVRS Rescue College and the Virginia State Emergency Medical Services Museum in Roanoke; and WHEREAS, in September 2012, Bob Wingfield was elected a Life Member by the membership of VAVRS, one of the organization's most prestigious honors and a reflection of his extraordinary life of service; and WHEREAS, Bob Wingfield will be fondly remembered and dearly missed by his loving wife of 44 years, Patsy; his daughter, Sarah, and her family; and numerous other family members and friends; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby note with great sadness the loss of Robert George Wingfield, a respected leader and mentor in the emergency medical services community of Roanoke; and, be it RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the family of Robert George Wingfield as an expression of the General Assembly's respect for his memory.

HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 633 Offered January 27, 2021 Celebrating the life of Kelly Brice Walters.

---------Patron-- Rush ---------WHEREAS, Kelly Brice Walters, a husband, father, grandfather, mentor, and teacher who was the walking image of a true community servant, died on December 26, 2020; and WHEREAS, Kelly Walters began his career at the Blue Ridge Overall factory, where he worked for four years, and the Cromer Furniture Company in Christiansburg, where he worked for three years; he then served as caretaker of the Christiansburg Cemetery Corporation for the next 24 years; and WHEREAS, Kelly Walters ultimately went to work as an animal control officer in Montgomery County for nearly two decades, retiring as the chief animal control officer for Montgomery County; and WHEREAS, in 1964, Kelly Walters joined the Christiansburg Life Saving and First Aid Crew, later known as the Christiansburg Rescue Squad, where he served as captain, first and second lieutenant, treasurer, and president of the Board of Directors; and WHEREAS, in recognition of his meritorious service, Kelly Walters was named the Christiansburg Rescue Squad's Crewman of the Year on numerous occasions and was elected a life member of the organization; and WHEREAS, Kelly Walters was certified as an emergency medical technician and further supported the lifesaving efforts of the Christiansburg Rescue Squad as an American Red Cross first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation instructor; and WHEREAS, during his years with the Christiansburg Volunteer Rescue Squad, Kelly Walters was instrumental in forming the Floyd County Rescue Squad; later, he helped spearhead the founding of the Riner Volunteer Rescue Squad, where he served as a charter and life member; and (Continued on page 15)

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WHEREAS, Kelly Walters was highly involved with the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads (VAVRS), twice serving as the District 7 vice president, as president of the organization from 1985 to 1987, and as a member of many of the association's committees; and WHEREAS, Kelly Walters was a founding and longtime member of the VAVRS Rescue College Committee, which for the past 40 years has overseen the organization's teaching of basic, intermediate, and advanced skills, such as rope rescue, technical rescue, and emergency vehicle operation; and WHEREAS, to honor his years of dedicated service on behalf of VAVRS, the association's membership elected Kelly Walters a life member in 1979; as an indication of his outsized impact on the emergency medical services community of the Commonwealth, he was elected by his peers to the Virginia Rescue and Life Saving Hall of Fame in September 2003; and, WHEREAS, Kelly Walters was the first full-time paid rescue squad captain employed by the Town of Christiansburg and served in that position for 10 years; prior to his retirement, he responded to over 1,000 calls per year for seven consecutive years, and in two of those years he responded to over 1,300 calls, or an average of four calls per day; and WHEREAS, Kelly Walters supported his community's emergency preparedness admirably as a member of its Fire and Rescue Task Force and the Christiansburg and Montgomery County Emergency Planning Committee; and WHEREAS, Kelly Walters enjoyed hunting with his beagles and was a devoted member, officer, and board member of the Christiansburg Hunting Club, where for many years he offered wisdom and advice that was significant to the club's success; and WHEREAS, on September 12, 2011, Kelly Walters was recognized by the Montgomery County Board of Supervisors for his 47 years of service to the citizens of the county; he also received a commending resolution from the General Assembly during the 2016 Regular Session for his service with VAVRS; and WHEREAS, Kelly Walters was a devoted husband and caregiver to his wife, Virginia; during her illness, he devoted his time, talents, and love to care for her, putting her needs above his until her passing in 2013; and WHEREAS, Kelly Walters will be profoundly missed by the emergency medical services community in and around Christiansburg, Riner, and Montgomery County, and will be remembered for, among other attributes, his serious demeanor, selfless compassion, and big heart; and WHEREAS, Kelly Walters was more than a first responder; when members of his family or community needed assistance, he was always willing to lend a hand; he would also regularly visit rescue squad members and co-workers who were in their senior years and confined to nursing homes; through his steadfast commitment to serving others, he was like family to many; and WHEREAS, preceded in death by his loving wife, Virginia, Kelly Walters will be fondly remembered and dearly missed by his daughter, Nancy, and her family, and numerous other family members and friends; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby note with great sadness the loss of Kelly Brice Walters, a respected leader in Christiansburg and the County of Montgomery, as well as in the wider emergency medical services community of the Commonwealth; and, be it RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare copies of this resolution for presentation to the daughter of Kelly Brice Walters, Nancy, and the Riner Volunteer Rescue Squad as an expression of the General Assembly's respect for his memory.

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Changes to the VAVRS Death Benefit Plan Submitted by Andy Neagle, Death Benefit Plan Committee Chair The VAVRS Death Benefit Plan was established in 1984 during the presidency of Gary Clatterbuck. The purpose of the plan is to render aid to the designated beneficiary or the estate of any member of the VAVRS Death Benefit Plan at the time of the member’s death.

To qualify for membership in the Death Benefit Plan you must be a member of the VAVRS. The membership of the VAVRS consists of the membership of all agency members, VAVRS Individual members, VAVRS Life members, AVAVRS members, and VAJVRS members. The best way to join the plan is through your agency.

If your agency does not participate in the plan, you are still able to join as an individual plan member.

Upon the death of a member of the plan, each plan member is charged an assessment fee. The assessment fee is billed to your agency and your agency is responsible for payment of the fees.

Your agency may choose to collect the assessment from you or pay the fee for you.

Individual plan members are billed directly and are responsible for the payment of their assessment fees.

In the fall of 2020, President Connie Moore appointed a special study committee to review the plan and recommend any changes and/or updates that may be needed. The study committee completed its work and submitted its report and recommendations to the VAVRS Board of Directors in mid-December 2020. The Board subsequently approved the recommendations at its meeting held on January 9, 2021.

So, what has changed?

Based on the recommendations of the study committee, the Death Benefit Plan Board of Directors and voted to dissolve. As a result, the Death Benefit Plan Board of Directors has been replaced with a committee consisting of the Chaplain and four (4) At-Large Directors appointed by the President. The new Death Benefit Plan Committee is required to meet a minimum of two times a year and make a report to the Board of Governors. This new committee is responsible for the promotion of the plan, the development and maintenance of all policies and procedures of the plan, and ensuring the plan is being properly administered.

To maintain your membership in the Death Benefit Plan, you must maintain your membership in the VAVRS and stay current in the payment of your assessment fees. As stated earlier, the membership of the VAVRS consists of the membership of all agency members, VAVRS Individual members, VAVRS Life members, AVAVRS members, and VAJVRS members. Should you find yourself in the unfortunate position of losing your VAVRS membership due to your agency disbanding, being dismissed from the VAVRS, or deciding to cancel its membership in the VAVRS, you will now be given a six (6) month grace period to allow you time to re-establish membership in the VAVRS by either joining another VAVRS, AVAVRS, or VAJVRS member agency or becoming a VAVRS Individual member.

For the first time since the establishment of the Death Benefit Plan in 1984, the new member fee and the assessment fee have increased. The new member fee has been increased from $3.00 to $6.00. The assessment fee has increased from $0.50 to $0.75. Also, along with the fee changes, the billing cycle for the

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assessment fees has changed from a quarterly basis to a semi-annual basis. Assessments fees for deaths that occur in the months of October through March will be billed in April. Assessments fees for deaths that occur in the months of April through September will be billed in October.

Another change is the addition of twelve months plan membership being required prior to death to be eligible to receive plan benefits, however this requirement may be waived in the case of an accidental death.

With the increase to the assessment fee and to ensure benefit payments do not exceed assessment fees to be collected, the benefit payout schedule has been revised and adjusted. As a result, based on the current membership size, the current death benefit payment is $1,500.00.

All the forms for the Death Benefit Plan have been revised and include detailed instructions. These are all posted on the VAVRS website.

If you or your agency have any questions or would like more information about the Death Benefit Plan, please contact Andy Neagle, Death Benefit Plan Committee Chair, at andyn1959@verizon.net or contact the VAVRS office.

Virginia Lifesaving and Rescue

Rescue Hall of Fame Submitted by Kevin Dillard, Chair The application period for the Rescue Hall of Fame closed on March 1st. announced at the 2021 Convention in Virginia Beach.

Award recipient(s) will be

Start thinking now of someone for next year’s nomination process for the Hall of Fame. The requirements are --

1.Must be a member of a VAVRS volunteer rescue squad or squads for a total of at least 15 years 2.Must be or have held a leadership position in a VAVRS and/or local rescue squad 3.Must have contributed to the community by promoting his/her rescue squad by serving on an EMS council or board 4.Must be or have been a VAVRS instructor 5.Must have designed a training manual 6.Must have designed or developed a rescue vehicle 7.Must have provided exemplary pre-hospital patient care in his/her community Please feel free to reach out to me if you need any assistance with the application process.

I can be reached at kdillard@lifecare94.com

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Joey King – VAVRS Secretary March 15, 2021 ____________________________________________________________ Thank you for your Support and Suggestions This is my first Lifeline article as secretary. I would like to thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve as the association’s Secretary. I have received lots of support that includes suggestions, ideas and material on how to be an effective Secretary. Several individuals have gone out of their way to be helpful. Thank you, your kindness and support. Your willingness to help others represents the core of VAVRS (concern, helpfulness and unity). As Secretary, I am working on and implementing “Best Practices” with respect to documentation, recordkeeping and timely reporting.

The Importance of Officer, Committee and Appointments Reports A well-functioning Board of Directors (BOD) is essential to the health and sustainability of any nonprofit. Vice Presidents established within the districts, committees and appointments selected based on their interests, experience and skills, delegated by the BOD accomplishes much of its work. Their work includes direct activity on various programs and projects which are ultimately provided to the BOD with recommendations for discussion and actions.

Both written and verbal reports from District Vice Presidents, committees and appointments related to matters under there charge are vital to the mission of the association. These reports are viewed as mission critical and provide an overview active work. This is a great opportunity to share activity and to report information in a positive manner.

Thank you for the work you perform and please feel free to contact me should you need assistance with reports.

Joey King, VAVRS Secretary, Jking@lifecare94.com, 540.752.6047

EMS Advisory Board Submitted by Kevin Dillard, Advisory Board Chair The Office of EMS has been continuously holding bi-weekly briefings for the regional councils and other stakeholders to keep all of us informed. OEMS has been focusing on getting business done and not keep going to the COVID issue as a reason not to get things done.

Start thinking now who you would like to nominate for the 2021 Governor’s EMS Awards. The deadline for these nominations is July 16th.

November 3-7, 2021 the annual EMS Symposium will be held. The annual awards banquet will be held on Saturday November 6th.

OEMS has a task force in place looking at the new DEA regulations on how medication boxes and exchanges will be handled in the future.

COVID-19 vaccination guidance is on the OEMS website.

Antigen test kits have been given out to agencies that have requested these at no charge. Most of these have an expiration date of April 30th. VDH has given a 90 day extension on this expiration date.

Bloodbourne pathogen exposure—OEMS has developed a screening tool for public safety. This will be a web based link on the OEMS website.

We will be going back to in person meetings for the Governor’s EMS Advisory Board. The next meeting will be on May 7th in the Richmond area.

As always, if I can assist anyone in anyway, please feel free to reach out to me. I can be reached at kdillard@lifecare94.com Official

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LifeCare Medical Transports Spring 2021 EMT Class Underway Submitted by Morgan Szymczyk, LifeCare Medical Transport, In July of 2015, LifeCare held the first Hybrid EMT-B Certification Program in Virginia. Much like today, LifeCare saw the need for EMT-B providers throughout the state, but research showed, potential providers needed alternative and innovative ways to gain their education.

LifeCare began their third Hybrid EMT Program in March of 2021. During a time of social distancing and virtual learning methods being conducted throughout the state, LifeCare saw this as an opportunity to create a diverse and high caliber class to help lead the way to the next generation of EMT providers. LifeCare's program utilizes an effective online cognitive learning system designed for a variety of learning styles. The program ensures psychomotor competency through effective hands-on training sessions with experienced LifeCare instructors.

On March 2nd, LifeCare was excited to kick off its Hybrid EMT Course. President and CEO of LifeCare, Kevin Dillard, spoke during the class to welcome the 31 students and wish them luck on the program. The class will meet virtually on Tuesday and Thursdays and meet on scheduled Saturdays for hands on training.

LifeCare is excited to be able to provide this high quality educational experience to students all across Virginia. LifeCare plans to hold another Hybrid EMT class in the fall.

Interested in joining LifeCare’s Hybrid EMT Fall 2021 Class? Email Morgan Szymczyk at melkins@lifecare94.com to reserve a seat today!

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LifeCare Medical Transports Unveils New Mental Health Awareness Ambulance Submitted by Morgan Szymczyk, LifeCare Medical Transport, On March 14, 2021, LifeCare Medical Transports unveiled their new Mental Health Awareness ambulance at their Richmond station. Over the course of the last year, EMS providers have witnessed some of the toughest days in their EMS careers. The burden that is left on providers not only during pandemics, but during their entire career has sadly created a world where more and more EMS professionals have died at their own hand than they have in the line of duty. It is with that thought in mind that LifeCare decided to dedicate a new ambulance to bring awareness to mental health.

In addition to unveiling the new ambulance, LifeCare also recognized two employees that assisted with the awareness program. Greg Davies, of Station 10 (Richmond) suggested the idea of the mental health awareness theme to compliment the other themed ambulances that LifeCare had in its fleet.

Recognizing that mental health for EMS providers is a very real concern, Davies suggested the mental health awareness EMT/driver Greg Davies with LifeCare’s theme. Bruce Buechele, another Station 10 (Richmond) Mental Health Awareness Ambulance. employee was also recognized for his work in assisting people with mental health. As a full time employee at this office, his commitment to assisting others was recognized by having this ambulance assigned to him so he and his partners can assist with spreading the word of the

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Bruce Buechele being presented with a Certificate of Recognition and vehicle assignment for his work on 10-3.

(EMT/Driver Bruce Buechele, Chief Kevin Dillard, Division Chief Wesley Melson, Lt. Chad Gregg and Captain Xavier Bates.)

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Karen Owens, Emergency Operations Division Director for the VDH Office of EMS and Vincent Valeriano, VDH Office of EMS attending LifeCare’s unveiling of their Mental Health Awareness Ambulance.

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importance of “Making the Call.”

The Virginia Office of EMS has been instrumental in bringing awareness to mental health in EMS. The “Make the Call” campaign has created not only more awareness, but also assisted with resources for those who need help. The campaign also has been instrumental in providing additional training so that providers are more aware of the signs and symptoms associated with post-traumatic stress.

The mental health crisis has only been exacerbated by isolation during COVID-19. It is imperative for all EMS providers to join together and fight this illness together.

If you or someone you know is in need of help, know you are not alone! Visit the Virginia Office of Emergency Services website at Make The Call Campaign – Emergency Medical Services (virginia.gov) or call the 24/7 confidential helpline specifically for EMS providers: Fire/EMS Helpline: 1-888-731-FIRE (3473)

Safe Call Now: (206) 459-3020 or 1-877-230-6060 Emergency Responder Crisis Text Line: Text “BADGE” to 741741 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255

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Waynesboro First Aid Crew Auxiliary Hello everyone from Waynesboro Auxiliary. We have been thinking about everyone hope this finds everyone doing well.

Our Auxiliary has not been doing very much due to this virus but we have been several small community projects.

In December, we donated food items to chew food community displays (Woodman of Life) and some children’s books to the little library. For the warm shelter, we donated bags of soap and body wash for the homeless. We also are helping S.A.W. (Staunton, Augusta, and Waynesboro) with donating cards to this organization is to help seniors in long-term care facilities for the upcoming holidays. They are asking for Christmas Cards and our Auxiliary donated nearly 300 Christmas Cards and 400 Valentine’s Day Cards to them.

For the squad, the Auxiliary gave out Walmart gift cards to the crewmembers children that were signed up. Due to the virus we were unable to have Santa’s Visit or a party. First Aid Crew President Ashley Cook’s father, Curtis Cook, passed away. He was a lifetime member. The service was private, the Auxiliary provided a meat and fruit tray for the family. He will be sadly missed.

The Waynesboro First Aid Crew hosted an EMT Class starting January and lasting until May. The Auxiliary provided bags of snacks and bottled water the first Tuesday in each month of every month.

We are trying to keep in contact with everyone the best we can. At the end of February, one of our auxiliary members helped with fixing a breakfast for the warm group. The auxiliary donated breakfast ingredients for them.

There’s been no Western District meetings but the Historian is still working hard on sending pictures for the scrapbook. We hope to see you all soon.

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Dear Rescue Ranger Dear Rescue Ranger, I attended a recent EVOC Instructor Update and I was amazed at all of the work Gary and Bubby have done to rejuvenate our program. I also learned a couple of tidbits from Gary (he is so smart).

1. He has a fear of speed bumps...but he is slowly getting over it.

2. He once backed up an ambulance without a spotter and lived to tell about it.

3. That there is a time when you stop on green and go on red...when you are eating a watermelon

4. That you don’t need a parachute to skydive...you only need one to skydive twice.

5. When anyone is driving slower then he is they are an idiot and when they drive faster than he does they are a maniac.

6. If you ever see Bubby running, call the police or get a good description of the guy that is chasing him.

7. He doesn’t like to teach the cone course in the cold...He does not plan to go outside until the temperature is above his age.

8. He saw some people outside jogging and it motivated him so much that he got up and closed his blinds.

9. That Spiderman hates driving with his evil twin because he is a bad parallel Parker.

10. When he sees a bug hit the windshield of his ambulance he says, “Bet he doesn’t have guts enough to do that again!”

11. He once gave up his seat to a blind person in the bus. That is how he lost his job as a bus driver.

12. He got gas for $1.39—unfortunately it was at Taco Bell 13. Man who runs behind an ambulance gets exhausted and man who runs in front of an ambulance gets tired.

14. He used to walk a mile to and from work because he couldn’t find a legal place to park at the fire hydrant factory where he worked.

Dear Walter, Glad you enjoyed the class. My friends, Bubby and Gary are great. Bubby once told me that he too learned so much from Gary. Like, the time he and Gary went responded on a call involving a man that had burned his ears. Bubby asked the man how he burned his ears and he said he was ironing and the phone ran and he accidently put the iron to his ear.

Bubby was puzzled and asked, “How did you burn the other ear?” The guy said, “I had to call an ambulance, didn’t I!” Dear Rescue Ranger, Let’s see how good you are at math. You have $400 in your wallet. You get a text from your daughter that she needs $200. Then a minute later you get a text from your son that he needs $150.

What do you have now?

Kenny G! Dear Kenny F, I know that is you! $400 and two unread texts.

Dear Rescue Ranger, Got three questions for you1. I have read a lot information about losing weight.

Is it true you should not eat at night?

2. I have a medic alert bracelet that says, “Insecure”. I notice you wear one, what does it say?

3. Why doesn’t Bubby have any magnets on his refrigerator?

BB from EM Dear Brandon, 1. You should eat at night, that is why they put a light in the refrigerator.

2. My medic alert bracelet warns first responders that I kiss back during CPR. 3. When Bubby walks by his refrigerator all of the magnets jump off of the door and onto his hip— you have to ask him why!

Dear Rescue Ranger, During COVID we all had to adjust and do other things. I was amazed when I heard you hiked across the Appalachian Trail. WOW! That is over 2,000 miles. How did you do it?

Ken M. Dear Mac Mc.

15. His agency recently bought a new ambulance that was made in Japan—they returned it because he couldn’t understand a word that came over the med radio.

16. He didn’t realize he was a bad driver until one day his GPS said, “In 400 feet, turn slightly to the right, stop and let me out”.

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Congratulations to the 2020 Governor’s EMS Award Winners!

By the virtue of the authority vested by the Constitution in the Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia, there is hereby officially recognized:

The Governor’s EMS Award for Excellence in EMS Allen Yee, M.D. For almost 20 years, Dr. Allen Yee has energetically worked to improve and advance EMS within the Commonwealth. He has served on various regional, state and national committees and has shown excellence as an educator and a leader within the community.

Dr. Yee is board certified in Emergency Medicine and Emergency Medical Services, and serves as an Assistant Professor with Virginia Commonwealth University Health Systems, specifically working with EMS fellows. In addition, he serves as the Operational Medical Director for Chesterfield Fire and EMS and Regional Medical Director for the ODEMSA region. Dr. Yee is committed to educating EMS personnel and provides guidance on regional EMS protocol and policies.

Most recently, in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Yee worked tirelessly to research, develop and help implement enhanced infection control procedures, guidance for employees handling potentially exposed patients, and most importantly procedures for maintaining the health and wellness of EMS personnel.

At the state level, Dr. Yee works to implement innovative EMS solutions by serving on the State EMS Advisory Board as chair of the Medical Direction Committee, Patient Care Coordinator and chair of the state’s Mobile Integrated Healthcare Workgroup.

Dr. Yee continuously works to bring all EMS providers, career and volunteer, into a collaborative pursuit of selfimprovement and service to the citizens.

Dr. Allen Yee’s contributions to Virginia’s local, regional and state EMS system are exceptional and greatly valued by the Commonwealth of Virginia.

The Governor’s EMS Award for Outstanding Contribution to Leadership in EMS The Kent J. Weber Trophy Theresa Kingsley-Varble Theresa Kingsley-Varble has provided more than 30 years of active service to the local, regional and state EMS system. She has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to the advancement of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) as a provider, educator and leader at all levels of EMS care. She currently serves as the coordinator of Emergency Management for Washington County. In that capacity, she leads the public safety system and oversees the provision of EMS across the county.

At the regional level, Theresa has demonstrated unwavering commitment. She has served active roles in EMS testing and training, and also served as a member of the Southwest Virginia EMS Council. She currently serves on the EMS Council Board of Directors and on numerous regional workgroups and committees. Theresa has also worked as a state certification examiner, served on several state workgroups and was a rural EMS representative on the state Rules and Regulations Committee. Theresa's leadership has had a profound impact on Virginia’s EMS System.

Theresa Kingsley-Varble’s significant contributions to Virginia’s local, regional and state EMS system are exceptional and greatly valued by the Commonwealth of Virginia.

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The Governor’s EMS Award for Physician with Outstanding Contribution to EMS The Frank M. Yeiser Trophy Joseph Ornato, M.D. Dr. Joseph Ornato is the Operational Medical Director for the Richmond Ambulance Authority. He has served as chairman of the American Heart Association’s National Emergency Cardiovascular Care Committee and its Advanced Cardiac Life Support Subcommittee. Dr. Ornato participates in cutting edge research aimed at improving the EMS profession. This includes the development of a program that would allow dispatchers to be trained as FAA-certified commercial drone pilots and deliver FDA-approved, naloxone intranasal spray to bystander 911 callers at the scene of an opioid overdose while first responders are responding to the victim. In addition, Dr. Ornato served as a principal investigator of the Public Access Defibrillation Trial. The results of this study were instrumental in Congress’s passage of the Cardiac Arrest Survival Act of 2006, which requires all federal buildings to have automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in public places. Dr. Ornato continues to develop programs and research that impact the EMS community. Dr. Joseph Ornato’s significant contributions to Virginia’s local, regional and state EMS system are exceptional and greatly valued by the Commonwealth of Virginia.

The Governor’s EMS Award for Outstanding EMS Prehospital Provider Sam Neglia Sam Neglia is a retired federal law enforcement special agent who has continued his public life in the service of others by volunteering with the Sterling Volunteer Rescue Squad. In the 10 years that Sam has been with the company, he has transitioned from a Basic Life Support (BLS) provider to a Nationally Registered EMT-Paramedic, and has completed courses and certification for Critical Care Flight Medic and Tactical Medic.

Sam's dedication to prehospital care knows no boundaries and he involves himself tirelessly in any effort that enhances service delivery with the Sterling Volunteer Rescue Squad and the Loudoun County Combined Fire and Rescue System.

In his role as president with Sterling Rescue, Sam has made outreach to the community a priority. He has also been instrumental in serving on committees that have enhanced the knowledge and skills of EMS providers.

Sam Neglia’s significant contributions to Virginia’s local, regional and state EMS system are exceptional and greatly valued by the Commonwealth of Virginia.

The Governor’s EMS Award for Outstanding Contribution to EMS Health and Safety Jonathan Smith Jonathan Smith is the founder of “Putting a Dent in Mental Health,” a nonprofit organization geared toward saving the lives of first responders and their families from mental health crises. Jonathan created the program in memory of his best friend and fellow firefighter who lost his life to suicide. Since his death, Jonathan has made it a personal mission to get programs started so that others are able to identify possible red flags and triggers that could potentially prevent someone’s death. Jonathan’s goal is to stop the negative stigma associated with mental health issues and encourage people to speak out about their feelings and tell their story. To combat the problem, Jonathan’s organization sponsors a class in Mental Health First Aid for Fire and EMS. The class focuses on the unique experiences and needs of firefighters and EMS personnel and is a resource designed to make a difference in their lives, their families’ lives and the communities in which they live.

Jonathan Smith’s significant contributions to Virginia’s local, regional and state EMS system are exceptional and greatly valued by the Commonwealth of Virginia.

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The Governor’s EMS Award for Nurse with Outstanding Contribution to EMS Daniel Freeman, R.N. Dan Freeman has been instrumental in helping to maintain a standard of excellence for trauma patients and families for over 15 years. He is currently the Director of Trauma Services at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, the only Level 1 Trauma Center in Southwest Virginia. In this role, as well as his previous role as Trauma Quality and Performance Manager, he works closely with the EMS community in identifying areas for growth and improvement in communication and knowledge among many levels of providers.

Dan’s previous experience as a flight nurse and Emergency Department (ED) nurse provides him with an opportunity to understand how vital it is to share and combine the unique knowledge and needs that both EMS providers and ED staff require to render consistent, high quality care to some of the most vulnerable patients encountered. Dan prides himself on his ability to build relationships with caregivers across the region and state, which allows for productive conversations, policy work, and more importantly, the improvement of the trauma care system. Daniel Freeman’s significant contributions to Virginia’s local, regional and state EMS system are exceptional and greatly valued by the Commonwealth of Virginia.

The Governor’s EMS Award for Outstanding EMS Prehospital Educator Daryl Clements Daryl Clements has been involved in Emergency Medical Services (EMS) education for more than 20 years and has remained dedicated to student achievement and improving the overall quality of EMS. His vast experience and high standards have enabled Navy Region Mid-Atlantic Fire and Emergency Services to consistently produce highly qualified EMTs and Paramedics. Daryl is currently the lead instructor and field internship/clinical coordinator for Navy Region’s state-accredited Basic Life Support training program, and is the owner and program director for Red Line Training Group, LLC. Daryl has also used his background as a U.S. Navy Corpsman to assist in developing a unique joint initiative with the Naval Medical Center Portsmouth to enable active-duty Corpsman to obtain National Registered EMT certification under Navy Region’s accredited training program. Daryl uses progressive teaching methods to ensure that students receive cutting-edge education in order to prepare them to be highly capable EMS professionals upon graduation. Daryl Clements’ significant contributions to Virginia’s local, regional and state EMS system are exceptional and greatly valued by the Commonwealth of Virginia.

The Governor’s EMS Award for Outstanding Contribution to EMS for Children Chesapeake Fire Department The Chesapeake Fire Department is an organization that continually goes above and beyond to improve the lives of future generations with programs dedicated to injury and illness prevention, and enhanced prehospital care.

The agency hosts numerous programs geared toward teaching children fundamental lifesaving skills. Programs such as Camp Fury Chesapeake, which is a partnership between the agency and a variety of public safety organizations as well as the Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast. Through Camp Fury, the Chesapeake Fire Department teaches children and families hands only CPR, First Aid, how to treat bleeding emergencies and stroke recognition. The program also encourages illness and injury prevention through a focus on fitness, healthy eating and teamwork.

Additional programs include the Juvenile FireSetters Program, the Adventure Intervention Mentor Program and the partnership with the Chesapeake Career Center, which encourages and supports high school students in pursuit of their EMT certification.

The Chesapeake Fire Department’s significant contributions to Virginia’s local, regional and state EMS system are exceptional and greatly valued by the Commonwealth of Virginia.

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The Governor’s EMS Award for Outstanding EMS Agency Navy Region Mid-Atlantic Fire and Emergency Services Navy Region Mid-Atlantic Fire and Emergency Services exemplifies outstanding professionalism and service to both the Navy community as well as the surrounding partner jurisdictions. The agency provides emergency service to an expansive military infrastructure, including the largest naval installation in the world and the Navy's East Coast Master Jet Base. During the past year, the agency responded to over 7,000 emergencies, including structural, medical, hazardous materials and aircraft emergencies across the Hampton Roads area.

The Navy Region Mid-Atlantic Fire and Emergency Services provides support for numerous recreation events across Hampton Roads and routinely provides public services to Navy families, including station tours for local children, fire safety education and holiday parades for base housing communities. The agency’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) providers are patient advocates in the strongest sense with concern for patients’ continuity of care, emotional well-being, privacy and the protection of their personal property.

Navy Region Mid-Atlantic Fire and Emergency Services’ significant contributions to Virginia’s local, regional and state EMS system are exceptional and greatly valued by the Commonwealth of Virginia.

The Governor’s EMS Award for Outstanding Contribution to EMS Telecommunication John Korman John Korman has served with Fairfax County's Department of Public Safety Communications since 1999. In that time, he has been a Communication Operations Supervisor for 12 years and Operations Manager since 2016. John is the primary point of contact with the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department to coordinate Fire, EMS and EMD related issues. He leads the Fire Department liaison group, which serves a collaborative group of call takers, dispatchers, and fire department personnel to streamline the process between agencies.

John is also a contributor at the state level, serving his second term on the State EMS Advisory Board and as the chairman of the board’s Communications Committee. On the national stage, he is an active member of the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials’ Emergency Medical Dispatch Instructor Committee.

John diligently works to improve telecommunications and advocates for local and regional policy changes regarding the collaboration between Fire/EMS operations and telecommunicators.

John Korman’s significant contributions to Virginia’s local, regional and state EMS system are exceptional and greatly valued by the Commonwealth of Virginia.

The Governor’s EMS Award for Outstanding Contribution to EMS Emergency Preparedness and Response The James A. Nogle, Jr. Trophy Stafford County Fire and Rescue Department The Stafford County Fire and Rescue Department, established September 20, 2005, is an allhazards response agency, which includes an Emergency Management Division. This sector of the agency is the coordination and support function charged with creating the framework within which Stafford County reduces vulnerability to hazards and copes with disasters. They protect the community by coordinating and integrating all activities necessary to build, sustain and improve the capability to mitigate against, prepare for, respond to, and recover from threatened or actual natural disasters, acts of terrorism, or other man-made disasters.

The Stafford County Fire and Rescue Department has been recognized for their effective Emergency Management and Preparedness efforts. Including their active CERT Team, PulsePoint Program and for being the first in their region to not only obtain HeartSafe Community designation, but also develop the program to assist other localities across the Commonwealth to do the same.

The Stafford County Fire and Rescue Department’s significant contributions to Virginia’s local, regional and state EMS system are exceptional and greatly valued by the Commonwealth of Virginia.

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The Governor’s EMS Award for Innovation Excellence in EMS Peninsula COVID-19 Operations Center The Peninsula COVID-19 Operations Center (PCOC) was formed on March 16, 2020, and served as an Incident Management Team encompassing all six fire and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) governmental agencies located on the Virginia Peninsula. The PCOC evolved early in the COVID-19 pandemic and its genesis was rooted to improve coordination and communication between all localities on the Peninsula. It allowed the Health Department to have a singular point of contact with all Peninsula agencies, which improved the consistency of messages.

As the PCOC formed, it served as a collection point for COVID-19 related concerns, a data gathering hub and provided daily operational updates in a unified format. It helped maintain and support a common operating picture of the Peninsula’s response and management of the COVID-19 pandemic. This was critically important when understanding the number of public safety personnel exposed, tested and quarantined; as well as emerging and creative best practices that agencies were developing and implementing.

The Peninsula COVID-19 Operations Center’s significant contributions to Virginia’s local, regional and state EMS system are exceptional and greatly valued by the Commonwealth of Virginia.

An additional award is presented at the ceremony to recognize the outstanding contributions to EMS by a high school senior. This is a scholarship award provided by the Virginia Office of EMS in conjunction with the State EMS Advisory Board. This year, two extraordinary high school seniors were selected:

The Governor’s EMS Award for Outstanding Contribution to EMS by a High School Senior The Dr. Carol Gilbert $5,000 Scholarship Emma Skeen Emma Skeen joined Cleveland Junior Lifesaving Crew as soon as she could with the intention of following in her parents and grandparents footsteps and continuing the inspiring work that they were (and still are) doing. In the three years since, she has had the opportunity to further her education, serve in a leadership role and inspire others to volunteer just as her family has inspired her.

Through her involvement in Emergency Medical Services (EMS), she gained her certification as a Virginia Emergency Medical Technician, served as First Lieutenant of the Junior Crew and has inspired and encouraged many of her peers to become volunteers.

If given the opportunity to improve the EMS System in Virginia, Emma said that she would implement measures to improve mental health awareness amongst EMS providers.

Emma believes that her continued education is essential to not only furthering her knowledge and opportunities, but to serving others and pursuing a future career in law.

Emma Skeen’s contributions to Virginia’s local, regional and state EMS system are exceptional and greatly valued by the Commonwealth of Virginia.

William Andrews William Andrews discovered his passion for emergency medicine early on in his Emergency Medical Services (EMS) career and credits his family for sparking that interest. He served as Jr. Captain for Bensley-Bermuda Volunteer Rescue Squad and Vice President of the state association of Junior Rescue Squads. William also serves as a member of the Carson Volunteer Fire Department. His favorite part about volunteering is the ability to take care of patients and make a difference in a stranger’s life.

If given the opportunity to improve the EMS system in Virginia, William shared that he would work to improve ambulance overuse and would incorporate the use of Community Paramedicine and social work to best assist those seeking care.

William takes pride in his dedication to expanding his medical knowledge and feels he is making a difference in his patient’s life, his community and the EMS field.

William Andrews’ contributions to Virginia’s local, regional and state EMS system are exceptional and greatly valued by the Commonwealth of Virginia.

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Spring B.O.G. Meeting Hosts a Motivational Speaker—Ron Culberson Submitted by Gary Dalton, Editor The VAVRS Spring Board of Governors Meeting was held in Roanoke, VA on March 27th. The VAVRS Board of Directors voted to hold this annual event utilizing a different format. The event was started with a presentation by a motivational speaker. Ron Culberson, a EMT with Wintergreen Fire and Rescue and nationally recognized motivational speaker gave a fantastic presentation that led the audience on a journey that began with tubing down the river that turned in to a metaphor for life.

Ron Culberson began his career by Speaker, Author, and Humorist Ron Culberson’s mission working with people at the end of their is to change the workplace culture so that organizations lives as a home care social worker at are more productive and staff are more content.

Hospice of Northern Virginia (now Capital Caring). After several That’s the philosophy behind “Do it Well. Make it Fun.” years, he became Manager of Counseling Services where he ultimately supervised a large department of social workers, chaplains, and bereavement counselors. Ron’s goal was to create a thriving department while at the same time encouraging his staff to both enjoy the work and to be fulfilled.

Ron eventually became the Director of Quality Service, a senior management position. After being trained at the Institute for Healthcare Improvement, he developed and managed the first quality improvement and customer service program for Hospice of Northern Virginia. This program was instrumental in training staff in customer service, implementing process improvement projects, and preparing the organization for regulatory accreditation.

In 2020, Ron went back to school and became a certified Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). He serves his local community through Wintergreen Fire and Rescue.

Ron has written three books: IF NOT NOW, WHEN?; DO IT WELL, MAKE IT FUN; and THE GLASS IS LAUGH FULL. For more information about Ron Culberson, or to purchase one or all of his books, visit his website—RonCulberson.com.

After the guest speaker, Gary Dalton gave a presentation about the VAVRS Strategic Plan and the work of the Strategic Planning Committee. The Committee is chaired by VAVRS President Connie Moore. Other members of the Committee are VAVRS Vice President Wesley Melson, VAVRS Secretary Joey King, VAVRS Immediate Past President Scott Davis, and four at-large members: Gary Dalton, Steve Southworth, Kim Craig and Kevin Dillard. The Strategic Planning Committee is a standing committee of the VAVRS and meets regularly to complete and/or plan projects enhancing the future of the VAVRS and its service to our membership.

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Then Andy Neagle, VAVRS Death Benefit Plan Committee covered the recent changes and improvements to the Death Benefit Plan. The original bylaws have been replaced by policies and new applications, change forms, deletion forms, and deceased member report forms have been posted on the VAVRS website. For more information refer to the article in this publication on pages 16 and 17.

VAVRS Training Officer John Craig gave a report about changes that have occurred to the Training Committee and VAVRS courses. He also covered information about the 2021 Rescue College. Registration to the event opened on April 1, 2021 and will close on May 14th. All of this information has been posted on the VAVRS website.

Scholarships are available for VAJVRS members. Application forms can be downloaded from the VAVRS website for members under the age of 21. The scholarships are being funded by the VAVRS Junior organization.

VAVRS Treasurer Clarence Fox and Finance Manager John Hilliard gave a presentation about the financial status of VAVRS and Legislative Liaison Ed Rhodes covered information about legislation that was passed during the recent session of the Virginia Legislature.

After lunch, VAVRS Past President Scott Davis covered information about the National EMS Memorial Service. The service was started by a group from the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads in 1991 and the first service was held in 1992. The event was recognized by the United States Congress in 1998 as the official National EMS Memorial Service. The date and time of the 2021 service will be posted on their website: national-ems-memorial.org. Donations are need for the service. The VAVRS encourages agencies and individuals to donate as they are able. Anyone call also sponsor a family and aide them in their ability to attend the service by donating $350.

There were also presentations made to the families of Robert “Bob” Wingfield and Kelly B. Walters. The Virginia House Joint Resolutions printed on pages 13-15 in this publication were read to the group by Virginia House of Delegates Joseph P. McNamara.

The Board of Governors Meeting followed with information provided by many officers, committee chairs and members. Debbie Akers, Division Director for Accreditation, Certification and Education for the Virginia Office of EMS covered many topics regarding the EMS Advisory Board and the VAOEMS office and staff. Full minutes of this meeting will be available in the very near future.

Other events were held during the Spring BOG Event such as Infectious Disease Basic, Designated Infectious Disease Officer and Methods of Instruction. The VAJVRS and AVARS also held meetings as wells as the Hall of Fame and Life Membership Committee.

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PO Box 279 2535 Turkey Creek Road Oilville, VA 23129 ISSN 0279-6023 Phone: 804-749-8191 Phone: 800-833-0602 Fax: 804-749-8910 E-mail: vavrs@vavrs.com

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

John 15:13

NON-PROFIT ORGAN..

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

Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads, Inc.