#WeAreSFFR (October, November, December 2022)

#WE are SFFR

MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF

Days are long but the years are short. It is amazing to look back over the year and realize what has changed and what we still have to look forward to. In 2022 we recognized 25 promotions across the ranks of FAO, Captain, and Battalion Chief. The promotion and entrance testing processes were a heavy lift and included most of the department. Everyone has something to contribute to the development and advancement of our people and I appreciate all the time and effort put in.

In January, we welcomed the largest cadet class in SFFR history. The team grew by 19 members and gives us our best opportunity in recent memory to realize full operational strength. This class is also important as our last academy to grace the VL Crusinberry Training Center. As much as I look forward to the new Public Safety Campus, I have fond memories of the TC as one of the best experiences of my life. Within the next six months we will begin moving furnishings into our new training facility. This new facility will elevate public safety training and coordination to new levels. Our new PSC exemplifies our community’s commitment to its first responders.

As promised in the Team Forum, I would like to share a message on the power of positive thinking. I am positive it works . Ahead of our annual vision and planning days, Mayor TenHaken challenged each director to read The Power of Positive Leadership by Jon Gordon. I appreciated the book and found the messaging to be on point and reaffirming for what I believe to be true. I was surprised that the author identified he is naturally negative and then recognized the impact that that negativity was having on his family and career. Throughout several self-assessments as well as sharing with family and friends, I have seen this play out. When we can identify what our natural state is, we can identify areas for growth. Whether it is introvert/extrovert, DISC, Predictive Index, positive/negative; the goal should be to learn where we are strong and then focus on where we can grow. For anything in life, we see the most gains if we lean into the areas that we suck at. Are you a positive person? Is your team positive? If you don’t know, I ask that you talk with your team. Then think if that same answer if following you home.

If you care to download the book, it is available through the Hoopla App with free access through Siouxland Libraries. https://siouxlandlib.org/apps

SIOUX FALLS FIRE RESCUE MONTHLY NEWSLETTER

Chief Matt McAreavey

ADMINISTRATION

It’s a new year, and a new topic. I hope you (both of you that read it) enjoyed reading my thoughts on failure in 2022. It was a useful tool for me in my first year and a new role to help make sense of the feelings of challenge and discomfort, so thanks for the indulgence. 2023 promises to dig deeper and hit harder, so without further ado – let’s start with a question.

When you are facing challenges in life, be them personal or professional, do you believe that you have control over those challenges? Or do you believe things happen TO you and you are at the mercy of outside forces – such as fate, luck, or Murphy’s law (no relation to our Murphys)?

Your answer to this question will help you understand the topic for the year – Locus of Control – so take some time to answer it honestly for yourself. Locus of control is broken into two types – Internal and External. Internal locus tends to believe that an individual has control over the outcomes in their lives, which leaves an external locus believing that they have little control over the outcomes in their lives. While I’ve distilled the year into a simple three words, it’s anything but. Locus of control speaks to many things – some highlights are:

• A person’s reaction to circumstances in their lives

• A person’s attitudes on preparation

• A person’s general worldview

• A person’s relationships with family, friends, and co-workers

It’s vital to note at the outset that the concept of locus of control isn’t intended to define good or bad, successful or unsuccessful. Rather, as is similar to most self-assessment tools, it’s meant to help a person understand their own behavior and the behavior of others. The better one understands the reasons behind behavior, the more effective one can be in helping themselves and others.

A fascinating aspect of locus is the idea that the EXACT same set of circumstances, viewed by two different loci, can be perceived completely differently. Have you ever witnessed that at a kitchen table? As we move to the kitchen table, I’ll bring us to a conclusion for this quarter and provide you with some homework.

If you’d like to explore where you reside on the locus of control spectrum – there is an easy and fast online evaluation here:

https://www.mindtools.com/am8v6ux/locus-of-control

I encourage you to take the two minutes and engage. Before you do, however, take a moment and make a prediction about yourself and see if it matches your results. If you’re really feeling plugged in, go through this as a crew and take some intentional time to discuss what you find, and how you feel about the results. What do they mean? Do you feel they are accurate? Why or why not?

Lastly, as we look forward to advancing this topic throughout the year, take the time to contemplate some other areas potentially impacted by locus.

• Career path/promotion

• Personal relationships (family, friends, co-workers)

• Finances

• Personal health and fitness

Do you believe these things could be impacted by a person’s locus? Why or why not?

How do you think each locus would impact them?

Are there additional aspects of a person’s life you think might be impacted by their locus? What are they?

I’m confident that’s enough for this session. As always, I hope you find this topic engaging. If you’d like to have some fun discussion – shoot me an invite. See you next quarter! DIVISION

CHIEF OF ADMINISTRATION | MIKE GRAMLICK

OPERATIONS

Winter and 2023 came in like a lion! The snow storms have presented several challenges not faced by the community in a long time. Once again, SFFR met the challenges and helped keep the entire public safety system moving! A couple highlights from the snow storms December 2022 through February 1 2023:

• 43.3 inches of snow - so far this winter as of Dec. 1st 2022.

• January 3, 2023 – SFFR responded to 62 calls

• SFFR assisted on 22 additional calls for plows from EMS and Law Enforcement

• December 2022 finished high for call volume at 1,503 incidents (1,150 is average)

• GREAT JOB EVERYONE!

In 2022, call volume was up about 8.5 percent (15,533 incidents total) or 1,224 incidents more than 2021. The increase highlights are in EMS (8 percent or 613 calls), False Alarms (8 percent or 148 calls), USAR/Hazmat (63 percent or 48 calls) and lift assists remain on pace with a slight increase over 2021 (2 percent or 26 calls) in 2022. The top three busiest station territories and units in 2021 are as follows:

1. Station 1: 3135

a. Engine 1: 1626

b. HR 1/Squad 1: 1509

2. Station 5: 2672

3. Station 6: 2054

As we continue to work through Divisional responsibilities there is one important change to note for personnel. Worker’s compensation and injury reports will be directed through DC Gramlick.

Below is a quick update on facility projects:

• Central Locker room – washer dryer location and new flooring

• This project is stil in-process as facilities works through their long list of citywide projects to complete.

• Roof replacement Station 10 – funding is being identified for significant cost increase.

• Roof replacement: Station 1 – Full roof replacement project is in-process and 25% complete.

• Station 6: new north ingress, egress, and parking lot are complete.

• Station 9: Add-on and remodel planning is 95% complete with project bidding timeline of April 2023 with a possible start of June 1.

Through the City’s budgeting process and continual meetings related to land acquisition and planning we have been able to update the City growth planning for SFFR included in the overall City plan. The following updates have been established:

• Station 6 – budget and plan for a station rebuild on current site

• Station 13 – ADD: E. Madison St. & Six Mile Road area (2026 - 2029)

• Station 14 – ADD: W. 60th St. N & N. Career Ave. area

• Station 15 – ADD: E. 85th St. and S. Cliff Ave. area (TBD)

• Station 16 – ADD: W. 85th St. and S. Sundowner Area (TBD) this location is variable due to boundaries.

• Station 17 – ADD: E. 72nd St. N. & 476th Ave. (I-229 north of) (TBD)

Additional facility notes:

• Station 1 – Evaluation of sleeping areas, alerting, and flow – TSP under contract for plan and has started the on-site review and plans process.

• Station 6 – facility is aged and overcrowded – TSP under contract for plan

• HQ – TSP is 50% through plan completion and cost estimates.

Battalion Chief Garrett Dulaney will lead the wildland program. Garrett has strong background in wildland firefighting including prior employment with Montana Department of Natural Resources as an Engine Boss. Garrett has a passion for community service and a solid background to lead this dedicated committee and important program. Continued on Page

Garett Dulaney

Fire PPE cleaning, repair, and coordination is located at Fire Station 5! Please review AP 120.3 and follow coordination request(s) as indicated through Keaton Peterson.

• Unscheduled gear cleaning takes place at Station 4

• Contact Keaton Peterson or DC Gramlick with any PPE questions.

• REMINDER TO CHANGE OUT YOUR FIRE PPE WITH CLEAN GEAR AFTER A FIRE!!!!

EMS

EMS calls continue to be our largest increase in calls for service. We experienced an 8% increase in EMS calls over 2021 throughout 2022.

In July 2022, REMSA in coordination with the Reducing Lights and Sirens (RLS) national project through the National EMS Quality Assurance Association implemented a response adjustment to the system to try and reduce unnecessary Lights and Siren responses. The group identified ten (10) medical determinate codes that historically have been BLS care with non-emergent transport. These ten determinant code account for about 400 calls per year and were a priority 2 response previous to this implementation.

• Three of the ten determinate codes have produced sufficient data to move those calls to a normal P3 dispatch – NO FIRE.

• This accounts for about 187 calls annually

So far the system has dispatched 58 calls since mid-July and only 2 of these have resulted in an upgrade to P2 with an emergency transport – both cardiac etiology.

• SEND updates as critical for prioritization and re-prioritization of EMS calls in the Sioux Falls EMS system.

• As we continue to see increases in violent crimes involving EMS response – REMEMBER YOUR BALLISTIC PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (BPE)!

SFFR is proud and excited to announce three SFFR firefighters have been approved to start REMSA Senior Paramedic Orientation:

• Firefighter Michael Shum (A-Shift).

• Firefighter Tanner Venard (B-Shift).

• Firefighter Logan Hoiland (C-Shift).

We are excited for these paramedics to start their REMSA Senior Paramedic Orientation process!

REMSA EMS grant funding for paramedic school is also available for application again. This funding is available to our people in order to continue to increase the level of care we provide the community! Please reach out to your Battalion Chief or DC Bukovich for further information.

SFFR received our new Lifepak 15 monitor defibrillators. We are currently preparing training and getting the new units ready to go in-service. The new units all have modems and transmission capabilities that will allow SFFR to send information to advanced providers and hospitals. The new units will allow each crew to have this important capability as the EMS system continues to grow, evolve, and allow for more opportunities to evaluate and prioritize patient care needs. Continued on Page

Michael Shum

Tanner Venard

Logan Hoiland

HAZMAT

The new Hazmat Rescue 4 is in-service at Station 4. We will continue to call it Rescue 4 but it will have the HAZMAT specialty attached to it in CAD for appropriate resource dispatching.

The Hazmat team has completed equipment assessments, training course review/approvals, and they are now out training team members. Upcoming classes include:

• HAZMAT Technician Class—Anniston, AL (March 26–April 1):

• Natalie Van Whye

• Nathan Schultz

• Sean Woodley

• MERRITT Class—Rapid City, SD, (February 20–24)

• Andrew Biggs

• Tactical Chemistry Class—(January 9–13)

• SFFR had 22 members attend this highly requested training class. The reviews were good and the students worked hard. Great job!

SFFR continues to plan, update, and improve our HAZMAT capability through training and equipment. A few equipment updates:

• New AP4C is in-service—replaced the AP2C.

• New weather station is in-service—replaced the old SAM station.

• New energetic materials detection equipment in-service.

SFFR is also in final stages to secure funding/purchase for improved Radiological/Nuclear detection/identification and gas detection/identification monitors.

The crews at Fire Stations 2, 4, and 10 continue to lead the way with hazardous materials and detection for SFFR! Great job!

US&R

The US&R team worked through the application process for new US&R Technician candidates. Thank you to all those who applied and the below list are those selected.

A-Shift:

Tyler Nation

Michael Shum

Josh Van Hofwegen

Jeff Weixel

B-Shift: Glen Carcaro

Bradley Esser

Conner VanDyke

C-Shift: Jeff Bream

The US&R training plan for 2023 and beyond is as follows:

• Rope: April 2–7

• Water: April 23–27

• Confined Space: November 17–20

2024 Trainings will be Structural Collapse, Trench, and Advanced Extrication.

Dive Rescue continues to swim forward! Captain Duffy, Firefighter Flannery, and BC Murphy are looking for candidates to join this exciting new team. Please reach out to this group to ask questions and gain insight into the program.

The crews at Fire Stations 1, 8, and 12 continue to lead the way with US&R for SFFR! Great job!

Mark Ellen at Radiological/ Nuclear Response Training

Alyssa Lyons

Daniel O’Mara

Continued from Page 5

Wildland

The wildland outlook for spring/summer 2023 will depend on snow pack. Locally they are predicting and we are experiencing a colder and snowier than normal winter!

SFFR will continue to work with Sioux Falls Public Works and Sioux Falls Parks and Recreation to identify areas that need prescribed fire for vegetation/noxious weed control.

RT-130 is in development and will be released soon for crews to complete. Annual pack test opportunities will also be available again this year—BC Dulaney will be the POC for this.

Wildland deployment PPE, equipment inventory/ coordination, and deployment equipment has been relocated to Station 7 under the coordination of the Station 7 crews. FF Josh Groen has been instrumental in taking the lead on this and has done a great job!

Apparatus/Equipment

2022 was a stressful year on our apparatus fleet for a number of reasons. First, supply chains were delayed and our apparatus and equipment replacement is behind schedule from these delays. Our EVT staff have worked tirelessly to keep our aging apparatus and equipment fleet performing above expectations. We all need to tell Cole, Mitch, and Denny thank you for helping us meet our community mission in a BIG way!

• EVT Cole Beckman has served SFFR for 10 years and the City of Sioux Falls for 15 years.

• EVT Mitch Boysen has served SFFR for 5 years and the City of Sioux Falls for 10 years.

• Part-time EVT Assistant Denny Matthews has served SFFR in this capacity for 14 years. This is after he retired from SFFR as an FAO.

The snow and slush create a lot of dirty fire trucks. Continue to do your best to keep the apparatus washed and clean—including inside and outside. Wipe down the inside of the cabs, spray off the underside of the apparatus, and clean out the compartments.

Make sure the following actions are taken:

• Thoroughly clean all areas of the apparatus.

• Including inside the cab, compartments, and under the apparatus.

• We have noticed the cab interiors of apparatus and compartments/equipment are in need of some TLC from crews to get them up to cleanliness expectations.

• Take note of items that would help improve our cleaning process and equipment available to crews. “WE WANT TO KNOW WHAT WE CAN REASONABLY PROVIDE TO CORRECT THIS.”

Following is a list of apparatus/equipment updates:

• New Rescue Engine (Station 8) Rosenbauer—in production (March 2023).

• New wildland/EMS Squad ordered—Rosenbauer—chassis ordered—timeline?

• New wildland body (same as WL-7)—Rosenbauer—in production (March 2023).

• Night Vision Goggles—delivered—training complete (FF Engberg is lead).

• Heavy Tow Vehicle for TC and Special Operations— delivered—training in-process.

• New Draft Commander pump test trailer—–delivered— training in-process.

• New 906 (ambulance) ordered—waiting on chassis delivery timeline.

New Rescue Engine Rosenbauer—Ordered— November 2023. (see above)

Continued on Page 7

Cole Beckman

Mitch Boysen

Denny Matthews

• New Chief P/U—Received. (see above)

• New Battalion—Ordered—summer 2023.

• New EVT Truck—ordered—summer 2023.

• Forcible Entry Prop Training Trailer—in design.

All SFFR team members and committees continue to work hard on their focus area to make SFFR even better. Please support any requests for assistance they might have in order to complete projects and gather information.

SFFR Team, what does it mean?

We often use words consistently without even really thinking about the true meaning, at least I do! It has been my experience as I continue in my career and with each promotion that I see a bigger picture each time, while also seeing said picture from a different lens. Recently, I was thinking about SFFR, our team, and all the moving parts of this organization. As I look through my current lens, I notice the incredible amount of people doing great things daily and working as a team.

Ride to School emphasis on "cool"

So, what does team mean? The definition of “team” is a group of people with different skills and tasks, who work together on a common project, service, or goal, with a meshing of functions and mutual support. This definition describes our department perfectly and sets our organization for continued success if we always operate as a team. I think of SFFR as a large ship sailing across the ocean, there are many moving parts, large crew, and an endless number of guests “aka, customers.” It takes every moving part and crew member to keep the ship advancing forward and take care of the guests, which is where you all come into play. Your background makes you an expert on something, maybe many things, with experiences that others haven’t had. It doesn’t matter if you have 2 days on the job or 25 years, you have something to offer. I encourage everyone to get involved to help this team be the best we can and keep the ship moving forward. If everyone was involved in at least one thing, no one would be overloaded trying to handle too many things. Find a way to help a teammate accomplish their task or bring a teammate in to help you with your task so they learn how a different part of the ship works.

I am proud to be a part of this team and work alongside my teammates. Always work hard, have fun, and be safe!

BATTALION CHIEF | GARETT DULANEY

DIVISION CHIEF OF OPERATIONS | MARK BUKOVICH

PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS AND TRAINING

Public Safety Campus—As we have moved into 2023, one of the exciting things to come is the completion of the PSC in October. With that, I would like to give you a good description of what you can expect to see at the PSC. So here you go:

PSC Administration Building:

• Police TO and Fire TO administration offices.

• Emergency Operations Center (EOC)—Space available to operate the EOC and be utilized as an additional 50+ person classroom. This space will also house the PSC Coordinator/Assistant EM along with a space for Unified Command briefings.

• EOC media briefing room—Space available for media briefings during EOC activation and be an additional small classroom.

• Metro Communications—Space available to house their administration and training offices. It will also house the 911 Communication Center.

• Full locker rooms for all personnel and staff.

• PD Mat Room—Space available for PDs close combat training and their virtual simulator.

• Workout/PT Room—Full workout facility for personnel and staff.

• Kitchen/Break Room—Full kitchen facilities for personnel and staff along with a large dining area.

• Two 18-person Classrooms—The two classrooms can be opened to be one large 40+ person classroom. The two classrooms will house our respective academies (one PD and one Fire).

• EMS Classroom—Space available to house our EMS simulation lab and manikins.

• Large Tiered Classroom—Space available for 40+ person classroom. This space will have the availability of anchor points within the center ceiling section for rope rescue training.

Storage Building:

• Four available stalls for PD and four available stalls for SFFR.

• One stall for PPE truck.

• PPE repair, maintenance, and storage space.

• Space for cadet gear storage.

• Tool rooms and work rooms.

• The bay space will be able to be utilized as a training space (large area search and rescue, Pittsburg, and Denver drills, etc.).

• Outdoor Classroom—Space available for predrill briefings and post drill hot washes.

Six-Story Tactical Building: (Propane Burn Building):

Each floor will have various layouts along with two fire props. There will also be various forcible entry doors throughout the building:

• First Floor—Retail and Hotel Lobby.

• Second Floor—Office Reception and Office Area.

• Third Floor—Office Spaces.

• Fourth Floor—Five Hotel Rooms.

• Fifth Floor—Two Apartments.

• Sixth Floor—Penthouse Apartment.

• Rooftop—Various anchor points for high-angle rope rescue ops.

Mixed Use Tactical Building: (Class A Burn Building)

Each floor will have various layouts:

• First Floor—Retail and Two Apartments.

• Second Floor—Two Apartments.

Victorian-Style Residential Tactical Building: (Class A Burn Building)

Each floor will have various layouts:

• Basement—Walkout

• First Floor—Apartment

• Second Floor—Two Apartments

• Attic Space

Continued on Page 9

USAR Tactical Building:

Will be able to train in several USAR disciplines:

• Confined Space

• Structural Collapse

• High-Angle Rope Rescue

Industrial Area:

This space will house most of our hazardous materials training props:

• Spill fire area

• Damming and diking area

• Natural gas fire props

• Railroad crossing and railcar props (will be working on partnerships to acquire updated railcars)

• FireBlast live fire training prop (will be relocated from the current TC)

Slow Speed EVOC: (See Gaps Section)

This was left as an alternate. We will be working through surfacing options to get it useable as soon as possible.

Wooded Terrain: Wide area searches and UTV training.

PD Range Building:

• 15 lanes, 50-yard firing range (handgun—long rifle).

• Will be able to conduct low-light, light bar, and high visibility training.

• Will be able to drive automobiles in for various training scenarios.

• Will house an armory and cleaning stations.

High Speed EVOC and Storage Building: EVOC course to conduct various driver training:

• Skid pad

• Railroad crossing

• Chicane

• Low-lying water hazard

• Traffic signal lane changing

• Pit maneuvers

• Storage building with an outdoor classroom to house the pit cars and various items for the EVOC course.

DIVISION CHIEF OF PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS AND TRAINING | STEVE FESSLER

FIRE PREVENTION

Hi all, I hope you all had a time to enjoy your family and friends over the holidays. Thank you to all for going out and installing smoke and CO alarms. Our customers truly appreciate it. I am sure you all have experienced a customer offering to pay for the service. We frequently receive thank you notes from customers to show their appreciation.

There is a training video Inspector Fey shared that can help you with the process to track our work. Also, there is a flow chart to help you use the correct smoke alarm for each home application. If you have questions, please reach out to Inspector Fey or anyone in FPD. Again, thank you for your efforts to ensure there are working smoke alarms in every home. This is just one of the small things we can do for our customers that can save lives.

BATTALION

CHIEF ENFORCEMENT AND INVESTIGATION | MIKE TOP

2023 CADETS

I’m Lane Egger, 21. I have a girlfriend whose name is Julia Mosley. I previously worked for the South Dakota State Wildland as a seasonal firefighter. Before getting this job, I lived in Custer, SD, for most of the year. During the winter, I would move back to Colton, SD. I’m most excited for all the new things I will learn. One of my biggest accomplishments was being selected as the wildland firefighter of the year working for the state this last summer; another is that I was the youngest person to ever join my hometown fire department. One weird fact—I have never seen the movie ‘Happy Gilmore’ start to finish.

Cody Duerksen, 32 years old. I grew up in Parker, SD. My fiancée, Kilee Ihnen, and I live in Beresford, SD, with our two boys Jack (8) and Sawyer (1). I am a part of the Beresford Volunteer Fire Department. Before this opportunity, I worked for Bear Mountain Hand crew as a wildland firefighter in Rapid City, SD. When I moved back home, I took a foreman job for a construction company. I am excited to be able to make firefighting a career again and to be a part of the SFFR team.

Bogdan Iskenderov, 30 years old. My wife’s name is Katie, and we have two children: son Bogdan Jr., 5 years old, and son Timothy, 2 years old. I was previously an HVAC tech. I’m from Ukraine. I am now fulfilling my childhood dream of helping others and serving our great people and the city. I graduated high school twice—got a diploma from Ukraine and from LeadDeadwood High School. I fought wildland fires on Type 2 hand crew (crew 15) out of Black Hills National Forest. I graduated from Southeast Tech. I love parrots and tigers.

I’m Darin Vos, 38 years old. I have a girlfriend who lives in the Twin Cities, no kids. Before starting with SFFR, I was the systems administrator and marketing coordinator at the Sioux Falls Food Coop. I was born and raised in Sioux Falls. I am most excited to be a part of a prestigious team and serve the community I love. I have completed a half-ironman triathlon and have graduated from the Leaders of Tomorrow, put on by Think 3D Solutions. I can whistle extremely loud.

We would like to welcome our newest class of cadets. Please enjoy the following cadet bios:

Josh Wagner, 31 years old. My wife, Brittany, and I have four kids ages Dawson—6, Maddox—4, Cole—3, and Wrigley—2. Before this, my wife and I had a restaurant named River’s Edge in Yankton, SD. We currently continue to live in Yankton. I’m excited to be a part of a team that wants to make a difference in a great community. I was an All-Conference Pitcher at Dakota Wesleyan University. River’s Edge had the opportunity to cater the World Archery Tournament that was held in Yankton, SD. We provided over 20,000 meals in two weeks. Even with owning and operating a restaurant, I do not like noodles or pasta of any sort.

Thomas Schilling, 26 years old. I have two children: Levi Schilling—6, and Kolton Schilling—4. I am an electrician from Little Rock, IA. I’m most excited to work and serve the great City of Sioux Falls. I was team captain of my college football team and Lyon County American Citizen award winner. I’m from the best small town in America!

Hello, I’m Sean Montileaux, 24 years old. I was born and raised in Sioux Falls. I have three older siblings and a dog named Chewy that keeps me busy. Before starting the Academy, I worked at Graco Manufacturing as a machine operator. I am excited for this new career because it will be rewarding to give back to the community and be a part of a great team. A couple of achievements I am proud of are being accepted into the Fire Academy and hiking three mountains in 2022. One quirky fact about me—I have torn my left shoulder twice.

My name is Dalton Jacobsma, 27 years old. Before joining SFFR, I worked construction for 13 years. Currently, I live in Luverne, MN, and have lived there all but one year of my life. I am most excited about the new experiences I will encounter while on duty. I am a sergeant in the MN Army National Guard, and I am a section chief there as well. I own 11 snowmobiles and only ride 4.

Lane Egger

Cody Duerksen

Bogdan Iskenderov

Sean Montileaux

Dalton Jacobsma Darin Vos

Josh Wagner

Thomas Schilling

My name is Jordan DeBoer. My parents are Greg DeBoer and Brenda DeBoer and I also have a sister named Larisa DeBoer. I’ve lived in Sioux Falls my entire life. I worked a plentiful number of jobs, but the last profession I was working was a lead teaching assistant at Lifescape. I did that for a total of two years and enjoyed it very much. While there, I helped students learn basic life and job skills. I am excited for this career change so I can work for my community and as part of a team. My most impressive achievements are graduating college at the University of Sioux Falls, getting promoted at Lifescape, and becoming a cadet for Sioux Falls Fire Rescue. My quirky fact is that I’ve attended 13 professional sporting events in my life that include 5 NFL games, 4 NBA games, 3 MLB games, and 1 NHL game.

My name is Michael Leekley, 21 years old. I am single with no kids, but I do have an 8-year-old brother. I have had many professions including epoxy floor applicator, heavy machine operator/road repair crew for the city of Hawarden, but most of my time has been spent as a CNA in a nursing home. I have volunteered with Hawarden Fire and Rescue and Hawarden Ambulance Service for collectively six years. I have always lived in Hawarden, IA. The most exciting thing for me coming into this profession is getting to work with people who share the same passion for public service and having a career doing what I love. The most important things I have achieved so far are getting my EMT license while working a full-time and part-time job and volunteering. In 2019, a team of us from Hawarden Fire qualified for Nationals in the Firefighter Combat Challenge and then qualified again in 2021. The quirkiest thing about me is I believe meat that I harvest through hunting and fishing is better tasting than store bought meat.

My name is Cameron Brummet, 30 years old. I’m married to Shaye Brummet. I previously worked as a telecommunications technician. I formerly lived in Seattle, WA. The most exciting thing in this new career is the opportunity to receive knowledge, skills, and abilities in fire and EMS, as well as the opportunity to perform them in real-world settings. I have completed a 10K Tough Mudder. I have completed my bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and am now becoming a fire cadet. One quirky fact about me—I have taught hip-hop dance to young teens.

2023 CADETS

My name is Calvin Vollink, 22 years old. I moved to Sioux Falls from Omaha to pursue a rewarding career in the fire service and get a change in scenery. Out of high school, I immediately got into the construction industry studying construction management at the University of Nebraska while also holding different jobs and internships in the field. After a change of heart, I moved on to the University of Nebraska at Omaha to study emergency management while also working in the banking industry. My greatest achievement is not being afraid of significant changes in life and being adaptable to trying new things. I have a passion for sports and the outdoors and am excited to be in a state where hunting and fishing are second to none. I look forward to being a part of the SFFR team!

My name is Cadet Daniel Revolorio, 23 years old. I am engaged to Cierra Harkema. We don’t have any kids yet, but we currently have three cats and a dog, Brodie, Maxx, Finn, and Franklin. Previously, I worked at the State Penitentiary as a correctional officer and prison shop foreman. I’ve lived in Sioux Falls since 2008. I’m most excited to be a part of a large and well-known organization in the City of Sioux Falls. The most impressive thing about me is that I played violin for approximately 12 years and traveled across the country and to England for music. Once upon a time, I wanted to be a police officer but then I woke up and realized I wanted to be a firefighter. A quirky fact about me is that I learned English from the show “Sesame Street” since Spanish is my first language.

My name is Ryan King, 37 years old. I have been married to my wife, Amanda, since 2017 and we have three children. James is 13, Ava is 11, and Jakson is 8 years old. From 2006 to 2021, I worked as a deputy sheriff in California before accepting a correctional officer position at the Minnehaha County Jail in January of 2022. I previously lived in the central valley and Kernville areas in California. I think I am most excited to learn a new trait and still serve the community in a positive manner. The achievement I am most proud of is winning the powerlifting event in the 2011–2018 United States Police and Fire Games and the 2015/2017/2019 World Police and Fire Game. A couple quirky facts about me are that I enjoy long-distance longboarding and love karaoke.

Jordan DeBoer

Michael Leekley

Daniel Revolorio

Cameron Brummet

Calvin Vollink

Ryan King

2023 CADETS

My name is Dalton Sack, 27 years old. My wife, Blake, and I have three little boys. Daxton (6 years old), Hayze (4 years old), and Daycen (8 months old). Prior to SFFR, I was a deputy sheriff in the Pierre area for six years. I have always loved all aspects of public safety, but I am looking forward to being a part of a team on a daily basis. I have been an EMT for 7 years and have worked in some sort of public safety capacity since I turned 18. One fact about me is that I was a fire explorer in Aurora, CO, while in high school and until then, I had never considered EMS.

My name is Spencer Stall, 22 years old. Before getting hired on by SFFR, I was an EMT for Patient Care EMS. Before moving to Sioux Falls, I lived in Sioux City, IA, where I attended college and EMT School. I am most excited about being active in and a part of the Sioux Falls community. My two relatively impressive achievements in life would be passing the NREMT the first time. My second would be getting on SFFR! One quirky fact about me is that I have a cat named Nala.

My name is Amadu Myers, 33 years old. I am married to my wife, Danielle, and we have two daughters together with another daughter on the way in June of 2023. Elena is our oldest and she turns 4 (1-30) and Eden is about to turn 9 months old. I immigrated to Sioux Falls, SD, from Africa in 2005 and have lived here ever since. My previous place of employment was Telephone Systems and Service where I was a technician. I’m excited to become a firefighter and make a difference in our city, while also gaining a sense of pride in my career. Some of my most impressive achievements are becoming an American citizen in 2012, learning English as a kid after coming to the states, and becoming a husband and a father. Fun fact about me, I can juggle a soccer ball for a long time.

My name is Conrad Dahl, I grew up in Canton, SD, and I am 28 years old. Prior to becoming a cadet at SFFR, I worked as a construction framer for Reaves Building. The thing I am most excited for in this career change is personal growth. Having no prior EMT or fire experience, I am excited to learn new things and challenge myself. This past summer, I completed my first marathon and look toward trying to qualify for the Boston Marathon. One quirky fact about me is that I enjoy watching chess YouTube videos in my free time.

I am Ethan Abbas, 33 years old. I am from Emery, SD. I live in Hartford, SD, with my two children—Keighlor (8) and Levi (6). Before joining SFFR, I was a fireand life-safety technician for Justice Fire and Safety, here in Sioux Falls. I am a member of the Air National Guard in Fire Protection. I am excited to be a part of SFFR because I am to be a part of an organization that is committed to taking care of its community. I am grateful for this opportunity and look forward to being a part of the team. Something that I am most proud of over the years is my 16 years of military service. I feel this benefits me because I have the ability to adapt to different situations. A quirky fact is that I have worked in multiple different industries and know enough to get me by.

Rope Ops OpsRope

Dalton Sack

Spencer Stall

Amadu Myers

Conrad Dahl

Ethan Abbas

JANUARY BIRTHDAYS

January 4 ............ Terry Nelsen

January 6 ............. Ken Sproles

January 6 Nathan Ruml

January 6 ............ Rocky Foster

January 7 .......... Daniel Wagner

January 7 Jordan Jacobsen

January 7 .......... Sean Woodley

January 9 ..... Bogdan Iskenderov

January 11 John “Jack” Claussen Jr

January 12 ....... Brook VanGundy

January 14 .......... Mitch Boysen

January 18 Derek Bose

January 17 ...........

Kyle Murphy

January 20 ............ Mark Olson

January 21

Darryn Deck

January 21 .......... Joseph Funke

January 21 ......... Adam Herther

January 21 Kyle Blakeslee

January 22 ......... Mark Bukovich

January 23 ..... Shannon Galbreath

January 24 Andrew Biggs

January 25 ........... Daniel Skiles

January 26 ......... Jeffrey VanZee

January 26 Patrick Short

January 27 ......... David Petersen

BIRTHS

Congratulations to FF Kyle Shanker and family on welcoming a baby boy, Maverick James Shanker, born on October 31.

Congratulations to Matt Greenfield (a.k.a. Jim) and his wife on the arrival of Casey Matthew, at 8 pounds 4 ounces, born on December 2.

Congratulations to Courtney and Tyler Tjeerdsma who welcomed their baby boy to the world on December 12, at 8 pounds 11 ounces and 21 inches.

Congratulations to FF Tyler Nation and his wife Paige on the newest addition to their family of three with the birth of Lincoln Robert Nation born on January 12, at 10 pounds 14 ounces.

FEBRUARY BIRTHDAYS

February 1 ........... Reed Strom

February 1 Michael Leekley

February 2 ............ Carla Schultz

February 4........... Jeremy Smith

February 6 Joshua Smith

February 9........ Dennis Matthews

February 9......... Johnathan Cory

February 10 Dean Lanier

February 10 ........ Andrew Boden

February 18 .. Christopher Scherbring

February 19 Todd Balzer

February 22 ............Alyssa Lyons

February 25 ........... Neal Murphy

February 27 Harvey Enalls

MARCH BIRTHDAYS

March 1 ........... Steven Brunette

March 4 Terry Fraker

March 6 ........... Michael Murphy

March 6 ........... Traci Humphrey

March 7 Jordan Siebenahler

March 8 .............. Robert Small

March 12 ............... Lane Egger

March 17 Jon Randby

March 19.............. Clint DeBoer

March 19............ Garett Dulaney

March 19.............. Ethan Abbas

March 23 Wade Mulder

March 24 .......... Adam Nusbaum

March 27 ............... John Ridge

March 27 Sean Montileaux

March 29 ............. Travis Willert

March 31 ................ Ryan Rauk

RETIREMENT

Fire Apparatus Operator Tim Nugteren

Nugteren and DC Fessler

Nugteren and cake

TRAVEL October 1 through December 31, 2022

Firefighter Alyssa Lyons traveled to Omaha, NE, to attend Paramedic Certification Courses October 2–14.

EMS Educators Amy Marsh and Jeremy Robertson traveled to Orlando, FL, to attend the EMS World Expo October 9–14.

Chief Matt McAreavey and Division Chief Mike Gramlick traveled to Irving, TX, to attend the IAFC Technology Summit October 17–20.

FAO Tony Hanson traveled to Mitchell, SD, to attend the Active Shooter Incident Management training October 17–19.

Fire Inspector Robert Small, Fire Fighters Tim Schons, Tyler Grieve, and Mark Ellens traveled to Aberdeen, SD, to attend the Radiological/Nuclear Response Training October 23–27.

Captains DJ Skiles, Ben Tracy, Jarud Neises, FAO Jeremy Hill, and Firefighter Tyler Attema traveled to Garretson, SD, to attend Electrical and Hybrid Vehicle Training October 25.

Division Chief Mark Bukovich and Battalion Chief Mike Murphy traveled to Sioux City, IA, to attend SCFD MCI Drill Evaluations October 28.

Battalion Chief Mike Murphy, Captain Dan Wagner, FAOs Nate Fluit, Josh Groen,Ryan Farsdale, and Firefighter Anthony Hanson traveled to Vermillion, SD, to attend SDTF-1 training November 5.

Division Chief Mike Gramlick traveled to Fargo, ND, to assist with the BC Promotional Process November 7–8.

Emergency Manager Regan Smith traveled to Watertown, SD, to attend HSEEP Training November 30–December 1.

Chief Matt McAreavey and Battalion Chief Garret Dulaney traveled to Deadwood, SD, to attend the SDFCA Annual Conference December 2–4.

Fire Inspector Robert Small traveled to Emmitsburg, MD, to attend NFA classes December 3–17.

SERVICE ANNIVERSARIES

25 years (March 30)

35 years (March 21)

Most importantly is that our firefighters have the heart of a servant and are coachable. No matter where you're from, or what kind of work you may have done in the past, we need you on the team!

Barry Maag

William Lacey

Scherbring

Peterson

Michael Wilson

Steve Brunette

Carla Schultz

Vande Stouwe