Fall 2008 | Volume 43 - State Firemen's & Fire Marshals'

State Firemen’s & Fire Marshals’Association of TexasSFFMASTAFFChris BarronExecutive Director512/454-3473 ext 901cbarron@sffma.orgWill CollierDeputy Executive Director512/454-3473 ext 902wcollier@sffma.orgKevin CreamerCertification Administrator512/454-3473 ext 903kcreamer@sffma.orgJoyce SteinCertification Assistant512/454-3473 ext 904jstein@sffma.orgJulie BeauchampSales Specialist512/454-3473 ext 905jbeauchamp@sffma.orgDiana CardonaMembership Administrator512/454-3473 ext 906dcardona@sffma.orgAllen RussellMembership Coordinator512/454-3473 ext 907arussell@sffma.orgIn the midst of writingthis article, the Stateof Texas, its citizensand first respondersare dealing with theaftermath of HurricaneIke. There were people that died and wereinjured, there are communities completelywiped off the map and some areas that willtake months even years to recover. Thiswill go down in history as one of the mostcatastrophic events geographically everrecorded in Texas.We should all consider the opportunity topossibly help out in some way, donatingblood, donating money to one of the variousrelief funds, donating equipment to theHelping Hand Program with the TexasForest Service, or just saying a prayer forall. This event has definitely changed thefocus for many of our firefighters for the timebeing.We are continuing to focus on membershipneeds with our Executive Director and ourgreat Austin staff. If you need assistance withmember certification or training material,call or e-mail them they are here for you andyour department.The Executive Board is seeking your inputThe President’s Forumon the way you would like state convention tobe formulated. Please let us know what willbring your department to these conventions.Legislative efforts are well under way withobjectives set in the June state convention.It will definitely take a grass roots effort onbehalf of the entire membership to be effectivein our quest to encourage funding, createeducational opportunities and protect ourrights as firefighters and public servants of thegreat State of Texas.We would like to remind everyone about theLegislative Day that will be held in March. Thisis an opportunity to remember our firefightersthat have given the ultimate sacrifice, to meetwith our legislators and to network with theirstaff. We will need everyone’s help.I will finish this article with a thank you to allof our families that take care of us while weserve our communities and state. We couldnot do it without them. There are increasingchallenges and opportunities that commitour lives everyday, on behalf of the ExecutiveBoard of the State Firemen and Fire Marshal’sAssociation we thank everyone for continuingto make this association the greatest it can be.Shawn Snider - SFFMA President, issued in the Fall of each year, is the official publication on the State Firemen’s and Fire Marshals’Association of Texas. Any person interested in the fire service may become an individual member of this Association by the paymentof annual dues in the amount of $20 per year which includes individual membership and allows for eligibility of benefits, includinga subscription to this magazine. Editorial and advertising offices are at 4450 Frontier Trail, Austin, Texas 78745, telephone (512)454-3473, fax (512) 453-1876. Advertising rates are available upon request or may be found online at www.sffma.org. TexasFiremen assumes no responsibility for statements made by contributors. Advertising in Texas Firemen does not imply approval orendorsement by the State Firemen’s and Fire Marshals’ Association of Texas. Writers, photographers and artists are encouraged tosubmit their work to Texas Firemen.2 | Fall 2008 TEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas Firefighters

with related contact information. Area Schools are listed by date, location, county,and contact information. PDFs of each of these course listings are also available fordownload.In addition, a “course request” link has been provided so a department may request arespective extension course in their area. To date over 750 departments across Texashave used this online system to request an extension course or program.National Safety, Health and Survival ProgramThe Extension Program also supports the National Safety, Health and Survivalprogram for departments and personnel not only in Texas, but across the UnitedStates. This program is designed to reduce the number of firefighter/responderinjuries and fatalities each year. “Committed to Long-Term Results” is the theme for2008 and encourages continuing investments by chiefs and firefighters to enhancetheir health and safety. The ultimate goal is to institute a strong culture of health andsafety within the fire/EMS service.To support this year’s theme, the following three areas have been selected as a nationalpriority:1. Implementation of the NFPA 1500 standards - especially sectionsaddressing personal protective equipment, or PPE.2. Fully implement the Wellness-Fitness Initiative.3. Initiate an emergency vehicle operation policy.The TEEX/ESTI staff, the Texas Forest Service, the State Firemen’s & Fire Marshal’sAssociation, the Texas Commission on Fire Protection, the State Fire Marshal, theTexas Fire Fighters Pension Commission, the National Volunteer Fire Council andthe Texas Fire Chiefs Association encourage all departments to take advantage of theinstructional materials and resources available to promote safe activities and reducepersonnel injuries and fatalities.ESTI has developed a 2008 Fire/EMS Safety, Health and Survival “InstructorKit” to support delivery of information to departments and personnel. This kitincludes presentation materials, instructions, and additional resources to supportlocal departments. To support the PPE focus, ESTI has developed a PPE course(ARF900) that assists department personnel in meeting the new NFPA 1851 standard.Information on these programs and the Instructor Kit are located at: www.teex.org/firesafety.NEW Leadership Development ProgramLaunched in 2008, TEEX’s new Leadership Development program consists of theTexas Fire Officer and EMS Leadership Academy programs.The Texas Fire Officer Program (TFOP) is a comprehensive fire officer training andleadership program, which encompasses the Fire Officer I, II, III and IV courses.All courses meet NFPA 1021 training requirements. The TFOP program providestraining and certification to meet the challenges faced by both the company andcommand officer. Students successfully completing each of these courses are eligiblefor Pro Board (NPQS) NFPA 1021 or Texas Commission on Fire Protection testingand certification and all classes are eligible for American Council on Education (ACE)credit.The EMS Leadership Academy is based upon a concept which originated in theearly 1990s to provide leadership and management training for EMS leaders inTexas. From the beginning, the program philosophy has been to provide continuingeducation designed for professional development using an integrated EMS systemapproach. Training is designed to be people-focused, performance-measured andoutcome-driven, using a positive approach and attitude.The long-term vision of the program is to develop standardized leadership credentials,reciprocity for managers making career moves, appropriate and quality continuingeducation for EMS leaders and to promote publications and materials designed toTEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas Firefightersenhance and improve management and leadership skills. The EMS LeadershipAcademy consists of the following three courses - each 40 hours in length: BasicSupervisory Practices - Doing Things Right (Tasks), EMS System Management- Doing Things Right (Tactical), and Executive Development - Setting CoreValues & Beliefs (Strategic). Information on these programs is located at: www.teex.org/leadership.Rural/Frontier EMS Education GrantTEEX, in conjunction with the Texas Department of Transportation, iscommitted to improving pre-hospital care and emergency medical responsein the rural and frontier areas of Texas. The goal of the Rural/Frontier EMSEducation Grant is to improve accessibility of training in these areas and EMSinvolvement in local communities.Through this program, TEEX can assist agencies and departments with initialEMS training, refresher training, continuing education training and instructortraining. The EMS program enables fire, rescue, medical and responsepersonnel to be better prepared to deliver specific medical services withintheir communities. This highly successful program utilizes a combination ofclassroom and hands-on training to prepare the student with needed EMSskills and knowledge. All courses are administered utilizing state-of-the-artprofessional education and certification training and curriculum.Courses are delivered at Brayton Fire Training Field in College Station, Texas, orat one of the many satellite locations across Texas. Information on this programis located at: www.teex.org/ems.Upcoming Schools and ConferencesOn January 12-14, 2009, TEEX will be hosting the Leadership DevelopmentSymposium – formerly known as the Texas Fire Officer Symposium – at BraytonFire Training Field.The 21st Annual Spring/ARFF Fire School will be held March 1-6, 2009, atBrayton Fire Training Field. The week-long school for emergency servicespersonnel and municipal and industrial firefighters will offer extensive andhands-on instruction in various specialized courses.Finally, on March 15-20, 2009, TEEX will host the 54th Annual Texas Fireand Arson Investigators Seminar in Austin. Attendees will gain cutting-edgeinformation and technology to aid them in the fight against arson in Texas.Experienced speakers and presenters will cover topics, including fire-causedetermination, arson investigation and prosecution.Tuition assistanceTuition assistance and grant funding are available from several sources to supporttuition, fees and some related expenses for Texas agencies and departments.Personnel and departments are encouraged to take advantage of the funding andservices listed below:Texas Rural Volunteer Department Assistance Program – Call the Texas ForestService at (979) 458-6505.Fire Department Emergency Program – Call the Texas Commission on FireProtection at (512) 239-4911.Center for Community Support – Call the Texas Engineering ExperimentStation at (979) 862-3234.Get email updates about upcoming coursesIf you would like to receive updates on course schedules and offerings, pleasesubscribe to TEEX’s email distribution list at:http://www.teex.org/subscribe.Fall 2008 | 5

The Challenge to be VisibleHigh Visibility Vests for Public Safety RespondersFederal Regulation 23 CFR 634The purpose of the regulations in this part is todecrease the likelihood of worker fatalities or injuries causedby motor vehicles and construction vehicles and equipmentwhile working within the right-of-way on Federal-aid highways.All workers within the right-of-way of a Federal-aidhighway who are exposed either to traffic (vehicles using thehighway for purposes of travel) or to construction equipmentwithin the work area shall wear high-visibility safety apparel.States and other agencies shall complywith the provisions of this Part no later thanThe Federal Highway Administration has determined thatClass II Vests complying with ANSI/ISEA 107, 2004 or 2006and Public Safety Vests complying with ANSI/ISEA 207, 2006meet the intent of this new rule.NFPA RequirementsHigh Visibility = Fluorescent and RetroreflectiveFederal Highway Administration regulations and NFPA standardsrequire the use of high visibility garments for emergencyresponders operating on or near a roadway.To meet these requirements emergency responders should useonly vests that meet the Class II requirements of ANSI/ISEA 107-2004 or the requirements of ANSI/ISEA 207-2006 for PublicSafety VestsUse of fluorescent background materialFluorescent material may be yellowgreen,orange-red or redRetroreflective material arranged for360°visibilityGarments should be labeled ascompliant with ANSI/ISEA 107-2004 orANSI/ISEA 207-2006Optional Breakaway FeatureThestrongly recommends that allvests purchased for use by emergencyresponders be provided with theoptional 4 or 5 point breakaway feature.This critical feature provides increasedprotection should the vest becomehooked on a passing vehicle.8.7.10* When members are operating at a traffic incident andtheir assignment places them in potential conflict with motorvehicle traffic, they shall wear a garment with fluorescent andretro-reflective material visible from all directions.A.8.7.10 Members that operate on roadway incidents should beprovided with vests or garments that ensure proper reflectivitysuch as a highly retro-reflective vest (strong yellow, green, andorange).One traffic vest for each seating position, each vest to complywith ANSI/ISEA 207, Standard for High-Visibility Public SafetyVests, and have a five-point break away feature that includestwo at the shoulders, two at the sides and one at the front.Features of the ANSI/ISEA Public Safety VestVests are easy to put on and can be rapidly removed in anemergencyThey are designed to provide easy access to equipment wornon beltOptions includeBadge tabsMicrophone tabsProvisions for agency specific letteringANSI/ISEA 207 for Public Safety Vests provides specificlanguage for the Breakaway feature. ANSI/ISEA 107 Class IIvests can also be constructed with the feature.High-Visibility safety apparel is your first line of protection whenworking on or near a roadway.The Challenge to be Visible - It’s your choice!WWW.ResponderSafety.comWWW.ResponderSafety.com6 | Fall 2008 TEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas Firefighters

Shawn’s exposure to the fire service started around the age of 5 years old, his Dad wasa volunteer firefighter with the Little York Volunteer Fire Department just north ofHouston on I-45. Shawn’s Dad was a student at the University of Houston and wentto school in the day and his mother worked in the evening, so there were many timesthat Shawn and his brother were hauled to the station while his Dad went to the fire.Shawn remembers countless hours of playing on Little York Granny Fire Truck.A couple of years later Shawn’s Dad moved to the Rio Grande Valley and startedhis career in the HVAC business and volunteered for the San Juan Volunteer FireDepartment. Shawn was voted in as mascot of the department at the age of 10.Shawn remembers attending district meetings, running in pumper races, and sittingon the railroad tracks watching his Dad train at the RGVFFMA Training Conference.Those were great times as Shawn recalls, but the burning desire to join the fire servicestarted at the age of 16. Shawn was told he needed to wait till he was 18 to jointhe department, so Shawn went to the city which is next to San Juan and joined theAlamo Volunteer Fire Department on his 17th birthday. Eleven months after joining,Shawn graduated from high school and three days later he was hired as the mechanicin the same department he volunteered for. It was the best of worlds, working for thefire department and responding, 24-7-365.During the first few years of working for the fire department and volunteering,there was a large building fire that occurred at a dance hall/beer joint, the fire wasintentionally set and the Fire Marshal determined the fire was accidental. Shawndisagreed with the decision and went to the Fire Chief. After Shawn called the StateFire Marshal Office, the fire was determined to be arson. Shawn recalls carrying ashot gun to work for about three to four months afterward because of death threatson his life from the owners of the building that burned. The Fire Chief Harold G.Nunn seeing his potential, offered to send Shawn to Texas A&M Fire School in 1983to start taking Fire Prevention and Investigation Courses to become certified as thedepartments Fire Marshal. Another area that was a turning point in Shawn’s fireservice career was when the schools in the area started requesting the department tocome show off the fire truck to the children. Shawn realized that there had to be moreto fire prevention than showing trucks and that is when Shawn decided to introducethe NFPA “Learn Not to Burn” Curriculum and its 21 fire safety behaviors into everyclass in every school, public or private in the Alamo area.Shawn credits his desire to serve, commitment to public service and success to hisGrandparents Robert and Luella Snider’s guidance and to his Fire Chief HaroldG. Nunn his mentor, for his groom and support. The fire department ran the EMSproviding basic service for the area and mutual aid for the surrounding communities.Shawn took his EMT training and passed the state test only to be sent a letter statingthat he will receive his certificate when he turned 18 years old. Running ambulancecalls is where Shawn embraced the idea that the fire service had such a greatopportunity to touch so many in the community. Shawn helped deliver his first babyas an EMT on a water bed, what a blessing. Seeing the importance of EMS in the fireservice, Shawn received state instructor and examiner certifications to teach EMTcourses to as many as possible in the department.In 1991 Shawn made a life choice to work for the Edinburg Volunteer Fire Departmentas Assistant Fire Marshal under the leadership of Fire Chief Johnny Economedesand Fire Marshal Richard Drewry. The ultimatum to Johnny and Richard was thatShawn would take the job as Assistant Fire Marshal only if he was able to volunteerfor the volunteer fire department. It was agreed. During this time Shawn was alsogoing through the ranks of the Rio Grande Valley Firefighters and Fire Marshal’sAssociation being President in 1994. During his presidency he had the MutualTEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas FirefightersAid Agreement that ties 42 fire departments and agencies together re-written andmodified.In the time Shawn has been with the fire service, the importance of training hasbeen priority #1 and continued to encourage excellence to the SFFMA CertificationProgram by being appointed to the Certification Board in 1997. He has been on thatcommittee since and has assisted in the total re-write of the Fire Inspector and FireInvestigator Program.In 1998 Shawn was appointed as Fire Chief of Edinburg after the passing of JohnnyEconomedes who was then 2nd Vice President of the SFFMA. Chief Economedeswas an inspiration to many who knew him, said Shawn. In many cases he was ourpillar and guide to help any firefighter or department that came our way. ChiefEconomedes discussed many times with Shawn the challenges and honor of beinga vice president of the greatest fire organization. He encouraged that potential aswell did Dayne Hill, Asst. Fire Chief and many other fire service leaders in the RioGrande Valley including Mission Fire Chief Ricardo Saldana, Edinburg Fire MarshalRichard Drewry, Brownsville Fire Chief Lenny Perez, McAllen Assistant Chief JoeGarza, Hidalgo Fire Chief Juan Reyes, Chief Herb Willich, Pharr Fire Chief JaimeGuzman, Raymondville Fire Chief Fred Ramirez, Zapata Fire Chief J.J. Meza andRio Grande Valley District. Elected in Corpus Christi in 2004 this association hasbeen the perfect conduit to promote education, and the betterment of all of the fireservice and first responders.Some of the goals for Shawn’s presidential year are to implement the new 5 year plan,working with the new EMS and International Membership Committees and promoteand support the legislative opportunities, to increase membership benefits to supportthe agencies and associations, such as Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service,Emergency Service Training Institute, Texas Forest Service, National Volunteer FireCouncil and the Texas Statewide Firefighters Pension Commission that embracesour membership and our families in the job they do everyday. “We have surroundedourselves with intelligent, very capable Fire Service Professionals to ensure that ourgoals and objectives are met”, said Shawn. TEEX and Texas Forest Service are acritical component to our first responders’ education network.Shawn has the support of the fire department, family and friends. Shawn’s wifeEdna, a Special Service Coordinator for special needs students is his greatestsupporter in the goals he is trying to achieve with the department, the city and thestate. Edna has been around the fire service for years both her brothers and uncle(Johnny Economedes) were and are firefighters. Shawn and Edna’s daughter Sarahis their pride and joy in life. Shawn’s activities outside the fire service are dedicatedto Sarah’s growth and education. There are opportunities to ride the motorcycleand play golf.Shawn’s belief is to wake up every morning with the intent and desires to serve othersand make one persons life a little better that it was the day before. Shawn tells hisfirefighters, we appreciate what you have done in the past, thanks for today and letswork together to make tomorrow better.Fall 2008 | 7

8 | Fall 2008 TEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas Firefighters

In the Line of Duty:Chief Robert Knight, Teague VFDChief, Robert Knight, 42, died in the Line of Duty from injuries hereceived while operating a building fire in downtown Teague. ChiefKnight died July 5, 2008 at a hospital in Tyler, where he was taken afterhe was injured. Chief Knight, who lived most of his life in Teague, wasa 1988 Texas A&M graduate who worked as an engineer for the BNSFRailroad. He joined the Teague VFD in 1989 and became chief in 1999and also volunteered as a paramedic. In April, the Teague Chamber ofCommerce named him Citizen of the Year. Chief Knight is survived byhis wife, a son and two daughters.Firefighter Joe Pat Jordan, Pickton-Pine Forest VFDFirefighter Jordan died July 4, 2008. He was born Jan. 26, 1937, inPine Forest to the late Maurice and Zelena McClure Jordan. He wasan electrician for 37 years and retired from Verizon. He was a foundingmember and secretary/treasurer of Pickton-Pine Forest Volunteerfire Department since 1976. He was a member of Pint Forest UnitedMethodist Church and served in Como-Pickton School Board for12 years and on Pine Forest Cemetery Association Board. Survivorsinclude his wife of 52 years, Nell Ann Lile Jordan, Pine Forest; son,Jeff Jordan, Pine Forest; daughters, Carolyn Woolverton, League City,and Sharon Carr, Mount Vernon; 10 grandchildren; and one greatgrandchild.Firefighter Dale Grider, De Kalb VFDFirefighter Dale Grider passed away from an apparent heart attackduring their training September 30, 2008. Firefighter Grider hadresponded to and operated at a fire earlier that day as well.Non- Line of Duty• June 6, 2008Elmer Aamodt and Mary Aamodt. Retired Assistant Fire Chief GrandPrairie FD• July 5, 2008Firefighter Benny J. Carnes of the Brownwood Fire Department• July 10, 2008Firefighter/EMT Sorrel Fregia of Liberty VFD• July 14, 2008Fire fighter Matthew Bubela of El Campo Fire Department• July 23, 2008Fire Marshal Mike Keefer of Grapevine Fire Department• July 30, 2008“Mo” Moellenberndt of LaGrange Fire Department• August 4, 2008Thomas T. Stracener of San Augustine VFD• August 8, 2008Firefighter Genaro Lopez, of the Hitchcock VFD• August 8, 2008Shirley Norman of the Texas Firemen’s Auxiliary• August 29, 2008Retired Kingsville Fire Department Fire Chief Juan “Tony “ Torres• September 9, 2008Conroe Assistant Fire Chief Will Wilkinson• September 14, 2008Jack Fassetta, Hitchcock Volunteer Fire Department• September, 24 2008David Abernathy, Sr. Pittsburg Volunteer Fire Department• September 30, 2008Springtown VFD Fire Chief Mike MedfordFirefighter Appreciation Day andMemorial ServiceMarch 25, 2009 • 11:00 amThis day will be an important one for the fire service of Texas.Memorial Service at 11amFree Catfish Luncheon to FollowPlan to meet with your State Representatives andSenators before and after Lunch.9:00 - 11:00 amMeet with Your Representatives and Senatorsconcerning fire service legislative bills11:00 amMemorial Service on South Steps of Capitol,Following – Unveiling of names to be added to theFirefighter Monument12:00 pmCatfish Luncheon on the Southwest lawn of the Capitol1:00 - 3:00 pmMeet with Your Representatives and Senatorsconcerning fire service legislative billsA block of rooms is available for this event at theHoliday Inn on Townlake for $109 a nightFor reservations:Call 1-888-615-0509 and asking for your group ratefor the Firefighters Memorial Event orGo to www.holidayinn.com/austintownlake andenter the group code SFF10 | Fall 2008 TEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas Firefighters

DisciplineWe need to remember that for paid personnel this is theirlivelihood. For volunteers, we need to remember that emotionsand desire are motivating factors. These differences areimportant when disciplinary measures are performed, but neverdownplay that career members “do not care”. Many managementphilosophies state that all discipline problems have the rootcause associated with poor management practices or failures tocommunicate expectations.When disciplining a paid member, suspension has the primaryeffect on their monetary earnings that can have long-termnegative motivation effects. Disciplining a volunteer is primarilyfocused on their psyche versus their money.documents, The Red and White Ribbon Reports, that can helpyou along the way, and both of them are available at www.vcos.org for free.Fred C. Windisch is the career fire chief of the Ponderosa FDin the Houston area where he has been a member since 1975.He has completed the Executive Fire Officer Program and is aChief Fire Officer Designate. Chief Windisch currently serveson the board of directors of the International Association ofFire Chiefs representing the Volunteer and CombinationOfficers Section www.vcos.org . Fred is retired from Shell OilCompany, and served as the Harris County Texas Fire Marshal.Readers of this article may access the entire Ponderosa FDStandard Operating Guidelines at www.ponderosavfd.org.Fair Labor StandardsThe Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) is not friendly to thecombination transition. The volunteer fire service simply doesnot understand the implications associated with having fullor even part time employees. FLSA is pretty clear in statingthat you cannot pay your volunteers an hourly wage. Somecombination departments hire part time employees that in mostcases are the most affordable method. Caution must be takento assure compliance with FLSA rules, and sufficient overtimefunding can be used to reduce the effects of the rules.The International Association of Fire Chiefs has producedManaging Volunteer Firefighters for FLSA Compliance availablefor sale at www.iafc.org .ConclusionRemember that there is no standard model and combinationagencies are here to stay. The trends indicate there will be acontinuous transition and transformation to this model but thesuccessful ones will have an educated and committed leadership,and that will lead to high quality services at lower cost. Themajor key to a successful transition is to always remember themission.You are not alone in attempting to understand the most effectiveways to create or modify your existing system. The IAFC’sVolunteer & Combination Officers Section produced twoAnthony Cargile2008 Firefighter of the YearSponsored by VFIS of Texas andCASCO IndustriesTEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas FirefightersFall 2008 | 13

IN THE DARKABOUT THINGS?THINKING ABOUT ASKING FOR HELP?TRY ASKING FOR FREE HELP BEFORESPENDING YOUR MONEY!Did you know there are manyorganizations and stateagencies who offerFREE CONSULTING AND ASSISTANCE?Community ISO Evaluation• Insurance Services Office at800-454-4554• State Fire Marshals’ OfficePPC – 512-305-7941• ISO offers FREE Pre-Evaluation andPost-Evaluation meetings with firedepartments concerning their PPC;SFMO offers assistance on theTX AddendumTraining• TEEX – 866-878-8900• SFMO – Texas Fire Incident ReportingSystem (TEXFIRS), Juvenile FiresetterIntervention Programs, FirePrevention Programs – 512-305-7900Setting up an ESDSFFMA LaunchesMembership SurveysSFFMA needs your input!! We are requestingyou to go to www.sffma.org and click on theappropriate link or links to take a survey aimed atimproving the services, conferences and benefitsto our membership. SFFMA has developed anonline survey as a way to gather your comments,ideas and suggestions and will not take butjust a few minutes of your time to fill out. Anonline survey system was the quickest and mostinexpensive way to gather information from ourmembership.For the general membership, we are asking youto participate in a survey aimed at asking generalquestions about firefighter training, certification,conferences, etc. For the Chief of the departmentwe are requesting you take an additional surveyfocusing on issues affecting your department,legislative issues, and financial concerns.We hope this information will be valuable inassessing our current programs, offerings, etc andwill help us identify future programs and benefitsyou might see as a value to your membership withSFFMA. Please take a few minutes and completethe survey. The survey will only be open untilNovember 30. If you need a paper copy of thesurvey please call 512-454-3473.• Office of Rural Community Affairs –800-544-2042Fire Prevention• SFMO –Prevention Programs & theFire Safety House – 512-305-790014 | Fall 2008 TEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas Firefighters

Benefits AvailabletoSFFMAMembers• First Diagnosis Heart Attack & First Diagnosis Cancer Plans• Long Term Care / Home Health Care• Medicare Supplement Insurance Plans• Final Expense Whole Life Policy• Tax-Deferred Annuity• Medical Air Services Association (MASA)• Dental Insurance• Vision Plan• Hearing SolutionsContact AMBA at 800.258.7041 for informationon the benefits listed above.Additional BenefitsGovernment Employee Travel Opportunities (G.E.T.O.)Space available condos located worldwide are available toSFFMA members for a flat rate of $329* plus tax per week. Visitwww.getravelop.com or call 877.867.3639. Use discount #823.*Rates are subject to change.GETO Hotel discounts — Use discount code 60712 for:• Days Inn-800.268.2195• Ramada-800.462.8035• Super 8-800.889.9706• Travelodge-800.545.5545• Wingate Inn-877.202.8814 • AmeriHost-800.996.2087• Howard Johnson-800.769.0939 • Knights Inn-800.682.1071Car Rental Discounts“Texas State Rate” available at all LaQuinta’s in Texas! 15%Discount at all LaQuinta’s Outside Texas! Call 1-800-531-5900 and request the Association Member Benefits Advisorsrate.800.331.1212www.avis.comCode: (AWD) G725000800.527.0700www.budget.comCode: (BCD) X925500800.777.5500www.arac.comCode: 153702-FSCBenefits made available byTEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas FirefightersNEW! Identity Theft Protection from CSIdentity – Protectyourself from one of the fastest growing crimes by enrolling inCSIdentity Protector SM . Visit www.AMBA.info/idtheft.html tolearn more or enroll online.1.800.258.7041www.AMBA.infoFall 2008 | 15

Focus on Recruitment and Retention:NVFC Supports Increasing TaxDeductions for Volunteers Respondingin Personal VehiclesThe National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) supports several piecesof legislation that would increase the income tax deduction thatvolunteers of all types can claim for miles driven in personal vehiclesfor charitable purposes. The deduction helps to reimburse drivers forthe cost of purchasing fuel as well as wear and tear on their vehicles.The current charitable deduction rate is 14 cents per mile, whichwas established in 1997 when the average price of gasoline fluctuatedbetween $1.18 and $1.28 per gallon. On September 1, 2008, theaverage price of gasoline in the United States was $3.68 per gallon,approximately 300 percent higher than the price in 1997.“Volunteer emergency personnel sacrifice their time, energy,and sometimes even their own financial resources to protect thecommunities that they live in,” said NVFC Chairman Philip C.Stittleburg. “As the price of gasoline rises, so should the reimbursementrate for volunteers, who have to pay the difference out of their ownpockets.”The NVFC has identified eight pieces of federal legislation (H.R.2020, H.R. 6283, H.R. 6368, S. 1220, S. 3032, S. 3246, S. 3421, andS. 3429) that would increase the charitable deduction rate in variousfashions. Additionally, many of the bills tie future increases in thecharitable reimbursement rate to increases in the business mileagereimbursement rate, which was increased by the Internal RevenueService from 50 cents per mile to 58.5 cents per mile in June. There isno mechanism in current law for increasing the charitable rate, whichis why it has remained at 14 cents per mile for more than a decade.Emergency response in rural areas, which are mainly served byvolunteers, is extremely fuel-intensive in part because of the longdistances that responders have to travel to reach incident sites. In July,the NVFC-supported Supporting America’s Volunteer EmergencyServices (SAVES) Act (H.R. 6461, S. 3237) was introduced to helpvolunteer fire departments cope with the recent spike in gasoline anddiesel fuel prices. The SAVES Act would subsidize fuel purchased fordepartmental vehicles but not for volunteers responding to emergenciesin their personal vehicles, who qualify for the charitable deduction.The NVFC has not endorsed any of the current proposals over theothers, but believes that the charitable reimbursement rate shouldbe increased at least to a level commensurate with the increase in gasprices, future increases in the charitable reimbursement rate should betied to increases in the business rate, and that reimbursement shouldnot be considered taxable income.Physical ExaminationsNFPA PhysicalsD.O.T. PhysicalsHazardous ExposureInjury CareSuturesCastingSprains & StrainsBurnstheIndustrialMedical solutionRespiratory ProgramsNIOSH Certified TechniciansPulmonary Function TestingFit TestingMobile On-Site TestingNFPA PhysicalsImmunizationsSelf ContainedNationwideSubstance Abuse ProgramsDrug Screen CollectionBreath Alcohol TestingCertified MROAdditional ServicesEKGDigital X-RayBlood DrawStress Test5151 Katy Freeway #170 Houston, TX 77007(713) 802-0801 Fax (713) 802-0105Toll Free 800-352-1865www.oc-occucare.com16 | Fall 2008 TEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas Firefighters

TEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas FirefightersFall 2008 | 17

The Office of the Fire Fighters’ Pension Commissionerrepresents the interests of over 26,000 fire fighters’and their families by overseeing and administeringtheir pensions in the most efficient, effective methodscurrently available to the agency.The agency is currently staffed by seven and onehalfquality individuals who are responsible forthe operations of the agency and pension fundmanagement. The agency does not have a governingboard.During the past five years, the Office of the FireFighters’ Pension Commissioner, with support fromthe Texas Emergency Services Retirement SystemBoard of Trustees and the Texas Local Fire Fighters’Retirement Act Boards of Trustees, has continuedto streamline agency processes continually reducingadministrative expenses. The agency has created onlinedatabase systems for enhanced communicationwith customers in the 182 departments in thestatewide system as well as the departments of the 121local systems. The agency has also provided on-linedetailed, secured access to those trustees who serveon the boards for their own use in conducting boardbusiness in serving in their roles as fiduciaries.As you are aware, the Commissioner is responsiblefor two distinct programs: The Texas EmergencyServices Retirement System and the Texas Local FireFighters’ Retirement Act funds.The Texas Emergency Services Retirement System(TESRS) is a pension trust fund with policy drivenby the Governor appointed nine-member board oftrustees of which six of those members are firefighters.The other three are professionals in the field ofinvestment services. This pension system providesa cost-effective means for volunteer fire departments,small and large, to belong to a professionally managedfund for the benefit of their local volunteer fire andEMS personnel.TESRS currently has 182 participating departments,representing 4,550 active, 2,274 retirees and over11,000 vested and non-vested members. TheBoard hires investment consultants, investmentmanagers, actuaries, attorneys and a contract, on-staffaccountant.The Board is actively involved in oversight of thesevendors while the Commissioner, as administrator ofthe System, oversees the day-to-day operations of fundFire Fighter’s Pension CommissionerThe Office of theFire Fighters’ Pension CommissionerBy Commissioner Lisa Ivie Millerdisbursement, management and staff.fund balance is $55.5 million.The currentThe Texas Local Firefighters’ Retirement Act(TLFFRA) departments are 121 paid, part-paid andvolunteer fire departments’ that manage their own funds’day-to-day operations. The agency maintains thesedepartment’s personnel records, audits their annualreports, confirms and approves benefit amounts, andprovides guidance on the professional managementof their pension systems as well as providing intensiveeducational programs for these 280 trustees.Since my appointment by Governor Perry in January2004, this agency has made substantial progresstoward improving the quality of the two programsand addressing some long-term issues that affect theseprograms.Texas Emergency Services Retirement SystemWhile the TESRS program saw positive market returnsin 2006 of 9% and 2007 of 13.8%, the 2008 return of-6% creates a continued challenge for $55.5 millionsystem. While the market has helped this fund grow,there still exists an unfunded actuarial accrued liabilitywhich the Board of Trustees must address as theirfirst responsibility is to protect the vested benefits ofthe members. In accordance with state law, the Boardhas requested through the Legislative AppropriationsRequest process funding to continue to amortize theunfunded liabilities of the volunteer firefighter andemergency services personnel pension fund.For review of the last four years in which I have beenCommissioner, in 2005, the Legislature gave the Boardthe authority to establish vesting periods, contributionlevels, benefit formulas, and eligibility requirements.The Legislature also approved $2.2 million in generalrevenue funding for 2006-2007 for the agency and thepension fund. Part of this funding was the statutory1/3rd of the annual contributions for FY 2006 and2007 for a total of $1.3 million. They also provideda “method of funding swap” which now covers allagency administrative costs from general revenue andnot from the pension fund.The August 31, 2006 actuarial valuation determinedthat the fund’s amortization period is 30 years and thefunded ratio was 72.8%. During the 80th LegislativeSession, the fund was appropriated $8.8 million forthe August 31, 2006 present value of its unfundedliability. In addition to receiving the funds from lastsession, the Board of Trustees has undertaken bothan asset liability study as well as an experience study.being conducted and the results will be availableDecember 9, 2008.In an effort to continue to defray overhead costs,the Office has provided to the TESRS Board ofTrustees a secured web-based system which allowsthe trustees to review current and archived boardagenda items and supporting documentation at anytime. Legislative and support staff are also able to usethis system giving them access to critical documentsavailable when needed for research purposes. Thisweb-based system has substantially reduced thetime and man-hours it takes to prepare for boardmeetings, allowing the staff to continue to servicethe membership.Recognizing the need to continue to reduce expenses,the Office reduced administrative expenses forthe fifth year in a row. The Office has continuedenhanced development of its pension website,revamped the contribution collection process,and sub-contracted pension accounts receivableoperations. The 182 departments can now log-onto FFPC On-line to maintain their pension rosters,file annual reports, and review contribution invoices.This process continues to be supported by themembership and the Office requests feedback onthis process daily. To further reduce administrativecosts, the Office has successfully obtained 89%compliance in collecting pension contributions frommunicipalities by electronic debit. The Office hasalso provided benefit statements to the over 17,000vested, non-vested and vested-terminated membersthe last 2 years.The Texas Local Fire Fighters’ Retirement ActThe Texas Local Fire Fighters’ Retirement Act(TLFFRA) allows for 121 participating cities toadminister their own local pension funds. Thecombined market balance of these funds endingDecember 31, 2007 exceeded $1.4 billion with6,020 active members and 3,845 beneficiaries.These individually managed funds vary in assetsfrom zero, or pay as you go, to $154 million.In 2007, investment income earned from these fundstotaled $122 million with fire fighter contributionsof $33 million and city contributions of $40 million.For the forty paid firefighter systems, the averagefire fighter contribution was 12.25% of salary andthe average city contribution was 14.57% of salary.Expenses of both paid and volunteer systems totaled$9 million. The full TLFFRA Annual Report for2008 is available on our website at www.ffpc.state.tx.us/TLFFRA for your review.The agency is actively marketing to some of the 80local volunteer TLFFRA departments who haveassets to become members of the statewide system.The costs of merging into the pooled statewidevolunteer system would aid these small volunteerdepartments, who have been administering theirown systems, by lowering the costs of actuarial,18 | The next actuarial valuation for the system is currentlyFall 2008 TEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas Firefighters

accounting and investment overhead. In the last 3years, the agency has recruited five local funds into thestatewide system. The agency is also looking into waysto assist those inactive TLFFRA cities, who are out ofreporting compliance, in reviewing their processesand best practices to ensure their vested members areawarded the benefits due to them.The agency is continually working on the benefitsdetermination processes. The Commissioner and staffare working toward certifying the benefit determinationprocesses of the departments and creating an on-lineprogram that will provide more efficient auditingof determinations. This process will allow thedepartment to receive an annual benefit determinationsummary and will provide a more comprehensiverecords archive for all participating departments.Oversight, records administration, appeals processes,and educational training should be just a part of whatthis agency does to assist the local firefighters in theirday-to-day management of their funds. Becausesome of these funds are facing the same issues as thestatewide funds, I have created committees in the areasof: peer review, conference education and training anda special committee on alternatives for small funds.These committees are charged to explore the issuesthat affect their funds and to allow trustees of thesefunds to learn from each other. Members of thesecommittees have years of experience in managing theirrelief and retirement funds and have a vested interest ineach others success.In conjunction with the Office of the Fire Fighters’Pension Commissioner, members of the Peer ReviewCommittee have trained over 120 trustees in anadditional trustee training held in Austin in April of2007 and 2008 without additional funding. This basictraining has allowed trustees to learn the fundamentalsof pension fund management and administration. Thistraining is held in addition to the annual conference inSeptember which saw record attendance in 2007.I have made it my mission to get each trusteeresponsible for these funds better fiduciary training. Ina culture of increased scrutiny of defined benefit plans,it is imperative that each pension trustee increase theirknowledge of their fiduciary responsibilities and havemeaningful support from the agency whose role it is toassist them in their operations.The agency has also provided an on-line secured trusteesite which enables all trustees in TLFFRA systems toview all plan documents relating to their systems. Byproviding this information, the trustees are able tohave access to not only their plan actuarial valuations,audits, financial information and plan documents, butare also able to view the records of other funds of likesize. Trustees are able to learn through the experienceof others and are able to benchmark their funds againstother like sized systems.The Legislative Appropriations Request for theagency budget for FY 2010 and 2011 includes itemsTEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas Firefightersthat are vital to the continued viability of an agencythat has long been regarded as the voice of the fireservice. Nationwide, this agency is the only one thatis exclusively for the benefit of firefighters and theirfamilies.The baseline request for the agency represents$1,078,746 which includes $76,000 that is raisedthrough the TLFFRA educational conference and isa pass through for the agency. Meaning, the agencyis representing the interests of over 26,000 members,304 municipalities and $1.4 million in pension fundswith only $1.1 million for a two year period. Needlessto say, this agency is one of the most effective andefficiently run agencies in the state of Texas.Exceptional item #1This item supplements the base request for statutoryfunding with the additional funds to meet the statutoryrequirement to meeting the state funding requirementsfor the actuarially unsound pension system forvolunteer fire and EMS personnel.TESRS Sec. 865.016 states “the state shall contributethe amount necessary to make the pension systemactuarially sound each year, except that the state’scontribution may not exceed one-third of the total ofall contributions of the governing bodies in a particularyear.”This item totals $1,708,152 for the biennium.Combined with benefit reductions and state supporton September 1, 2007, it should be assumed the Fundwill still be below the fully funded status.Exceptional item #2The position of Commissioner is appointed by theGovernor and has no governing board to recommendsalary increased to the Governor or the Legislature asprovided by Article 9 of the appropriations act. Thisposition has like duties of any other statewide pensionfund. In contrast to these systems, the Commissionerhas the added element of making 280 pension fundtrustees successful in running their local funds. TheCommissioner also serves as an administrative hearingsjudge and serves as the final decision maker in case ofbenefit determination discrepancies.As with other exempt positions, this position isnot given the cost of living increase provided by theLegislature in 2005 and 2007. This request meets theBase Tier pay as provided by the State Auditors Office“Classification Study of Exempt Positions Report No.08-708. I would like to continue the discussions onthis issue regarding the Market Competitive Tier andthe Performance Tier.Exceptional item #3The third exceptional item requests funding for apension specialist with actuarial and legal knowledgeof pension system operations. As stated above, it isimperative the agency have funding for personnel withthis type of pension experience to provide enhancedsupport to trustees and agency staff. With over $1.4billion in pension assets, this person would be able toassist me in creating higher levels of education andsupport for these 121 local fire fighter pension systems.This item totals $114,000 for the biennium.Exceptional item #4The agency is seeking an additional $158,400 offunding for the contract accountant which providesaccounting and audit support for both the agencyand the pension system. In an effort to continue tostabilize the statewide pension fund, the agency isrequesting appropriated funds to pay for 100% ofthe contract costs which are $264,000 biannually.Currently, the agency provides 40% of the funding forthe accountant’s contract and the pension fund paysfor 60% of the contract.Exceptional item #5One day before the LAR was completed; it wasbrought to our attention that DIR will now requireall state agencies to meet accessibility standards fortheir web-based programs. We were given noticethat we must have this completed by 2011. We havecontacted our programmer who gave us an estimate ofthe costs of $125,000. There would likely be addedcosts for training and applications.I believe with appropriate funding including theexceptional item requests, 8.5 FTE’s will allow theagency to continue to service its members withoutadding personnel. The agency has not been fullystaffed with 8.5 FTE’s since my appointment. Whatthe agency lacks is the funding to put the rightpersonnel in these positions, not more people.This Legislative Appropriations Request withfunding of all exceptional items will enable theOffice of the Fire Fighters’ Pension Commissioner toeffectively and efficiently serve the citizens of the stateof Texas to the fullest extent possible. This requestwill allow the agency to continue to move forwardwith continued enhancement of agency operationswhile ensuring greater access to government serviceswhile reducing service delivery costs.In conclusion, the mission of the Office of the FireFighters’ Pension Commissioner is clear, “To bea recognized leader and preferred provider forthe emergency services community by deliveringunequaled products and fiduciary services througha highly qualified staff of professionals with totalcommitment to integrity and excellence.”I appreciate the support of not only the statewideboard of trustees, but also the trustees of the localpension funds for their support of this agency sinceits inception in 1937 and specifically the last fouryears. We have come a long way toward creating amore efficient, effective agency for the taxpayers ofthis state. This could not be accomplished withoutthe support of these dedicated men and womenwho not only risk their lives for our safety, but alsovolunteer to make sure their brother firefighters andtheir families receive the benefits they deserve.Fall 2008 | 19

We’re not rebuilding...We’re reloadingBy TFlag Chairman Steve PerdueWe’re not rebuilding—we’re reloading. This popular slogan hasbeen used often by athletic teams as they prepare for the upcomingseason. This slogan also applies to the SFFMA T-Flag Committeeas it prepares for the opening of the Eighty-first Texas Legislature onJanuary 13, 2009. We had a remarkable Eightieth Session thanks tothe dedication and hard work of the entire fire service. When youwere asked to contact Legislators, you responded with zeal andpromptness. Your voice was heard often and loud in the halls of thecapitol in Austin. It will be heard again in the upcoming session.We’ve got some clean up to do with our fire hydrant bill. Who wouldhave thought that such a well meaning bill that seemed so simple whenit was passed would stir such a controversy? Meetings are ongoingbetween our lobbyist, Trey Blocker, and the lawyers from the RuralWater Supply Corporations. Progress is being made and everybodywants to see this resolved. Representative McReynolds has been astronghold for us in this endeavor and we value his support.We have on the top of our list a bill that our industrial folks wantto see passed. Industry has some very valuable equipment andexpertise that they are more than willing to offer to the public sectorfire departments in times of emergency. At this point, however, theprivate sector is not immune from liability suits as the public sector is.Industry is not asking for protection from gross negligence, they justwant to enjoy the same protection that every public fire departmentenjoys. We would like to help them achieve that protection.President Snider has asked that we introduce a bill to make the tuitionbreaks given to a paid firefighter available to accredited advancedcertified volunteers who are seeking a degree in fire science.We plan to reintroduce the bill to make diesel state tax exempt forfire departments. This bill passed the House last year and died inthe Senate Finance Committee. Best guess is that it will end up inSenate Finance again this session. Let’s do a little pre-planning.Right now, address a letter to Senator Steve Ogden, Chairman ofthe Senate Finance Committee, P.O. Box 12068, Capitol Station,Austin, TX 78711 and a letter to Lt. Governor David Dewhurst, P.O.Box 12068, Capitol Station, Austin, TX 78711. Put your letter onyour department’s letterhead and mention that the diesel sales taxexemption bill will be reintroduced in the eighty-first session. Pointout how much your department spends annually for state sales taxon diesel. Then you can tie that amount to some piece of firefightingequipment that your department could buy if you didn’t have to paythe tax. For example, if you spend a thousand dollars on sales tax, youcould buy a real good nozzle if you could save that money. Close yourletter by asking them to support the bill to exempt fire departmentsfrom the sales tax on diesel.As this is being written, the jury is still out on the Sunset Commissionrecommendations with regard to the Texas Commission on FireProtection. The initial report has some concerns for us. The initialreport recommends moving the grant program from the Commissionto the Texas Forest Service and putting it under the same rules as HB2604. The Sunset Commission’s reasoning is that large departmentsare not using the TCFP Grant Program so it should be moved. Theyfail to notice the countless number of departments with 20 or moreemployees who are using that grant funding as a source of fundsfor training especially at Municipal Fire School. We have seriousconcerns about eliminating the Firefighter’s Advisory Committee. Atfirst glance, this seems to eliminate the system of checks and balanceson the Commission. We are also seriously studying the proposedrecommendations on curriculum.There are a myriad of other things to consider. A bill to ban noveltylighters is making its way through the U.S. Congress. Do we wantto wait on possible federal legislation or push for a Texas ban? Wewant to support the residential sprinkler bill as being proposed by theTexas Fire Marshals Association. We are in discussions with TEEXabout a single source funding bill to add a couple of programs to theTEEX road program in Texas and with the Texas Forest Service abouta new and revised wildfire protection plan. We have already appearedat a budget hearing on the Firefighter’s Pension Commission budgetrequests. Above all, we want to be aware of what is being proposedby others and closely monitor the effects on the firefighters that werepresent. We want what’s good for the fire service of Texas, not someinterest group.It’s going to be an interesting session. It’s not long until January 13.It’s time right now to start planning and preparing. If your Senatoror Representative is up for reelection, now is the time to get toknow him or her. Invite them to your department especially if youare having some special event. They want the exposure right now.If you impress them with the professionalism of your departmentand how you conduct your business, they will remember you whenyou ask for their help in the upcoming session. Make sure you aretied into somebody’s e-mail tree so you can keep up with legislativehappenings. Either contact your District’s T-Flag Representative orcontact me at sperdue@mesh.net and I’ll put you on my e-mail list. Ifwe get two days notice about an upcoming vote or committee hearing,it’s unusual. We have to stay organized so that we can make contactson a moment’s notice. If you can come to Austin on relatively shortnotice to testify before a committee, please let Chris or me know. It’sup to each of us to make this session a success for the fire service. Allof us need to get geared up and get ready because January 13 will beon us before we know it.One other thing, Firefighter’s Day at the Capitol will be March 25,2009. Mark your calendars now and make plans to come to Austinon that day to visit with your Legislators and support the fire servicelegislative plan20 | Fall 2008 TEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas Firefighters

SponsoringOrganization:“ This is the kind of show thatmakes people say WOW!”— Gordon Lohmeyer CFPS, TEEX/ESTI - Private Sector ManagerAre you getting yourmonthly e-Infofire Newsletter?TEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas FirefightersIf not, go to the SFFMA website to sign up.Fall 2008 | 21

The State Firemen’s and Fire Marshals’Association of Texas is Awarded a$248,800 Department of HomelandSecurity Grant.On August 22, 2008, SFFMA was notified by theDepartment of Homeland Security that it has been awardeda Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response grantin the amount of $248,800.We’re here when you need us most.Workers’ Compensation • Liability • PropertyLoss Prevention & Safety Training • Hazard InspectionsIt’s nice to knowyou have a reliableresource when needed.“This is great news for our association and our members”said Chris Barron, Executive Director for the 19,000member association. The funds for this grant will assistthe Texas fire service in several different areas volunteer firedepartments often struggle with. A portion of the fundingwill be used to hire a professional marketing firm taskedwith developing video and print media for recruitmentprograms that volunteer fire departments can use to attractnew firefighters. An SFFMA staff member would deliverthe program across the state, assist the departments ingetting it setup in the community and will monitor thosedepartments for progress. Departments will have access tofilm media for use at the local TV stations and print mediato be placed in the community. The grant from DHS alsoestablishes a limited $20,000 a year fund to assist injuredfirefighters who are not covered by workers compensationor insurance to help pay medical bills.SFFMA looks forward to assisting fire departments acrossthe state in developing recruitment programs and utilizesome of the media kits the association will develop withthis grant. The grant period will be for four years and theassociation will immediately start researching marketingfirms to begin developing the products to be distributed.Covering TexasFirefighters Since 1974800-537-6655 • www.tmlirp.orgInsuring America’s Heroes Since 1928Insurance Benefits for yourmembers—It’s all we do.• Blanket Accident & Health• 24-Hour Accidental Death &Dismemberment• Group LifeDaren K. D’IppolitoRegional Director800-447-0360ddippolito@providentbenefits.comwww.providentbenefits.comFor further questions or inquiries contact Chris Barron at 512-454-3473 or cbarron@sffma.org or go to www.sffma.org22 | Fall 2008 TEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas Firefighters

SFFMA MembersGet $100 off an ECA CourseCall for DetailsTEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas FirefightersFall 2008 | 23

2008 SFFMAConferenceRewind24 | Fall 2008 TEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas Firefighters

TEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas FirefightersFall 2008 | 25

Texas A&M Advisory BoardState Firemen’s & Fire Marshals’Association of TexasKeith RussellMemberEastman Chemical Co Work: (903) 237-6689PO Box 7444 Fax: (903) 237-6678Longview, TX 75607-7444 Email: krussell@eastman.comDeloss EdwardsMember4733 Catclaw Dr Work: (325) 695-5133Abilene, TX 79606-3217 Home: (325) 695-5133Email: deloss36@hotmail.comBob J. LooneyMember220 Juniper St Home: (817) 473-1182Mansfield, TX 76063-1815 Email: palintex@yahoo.comPatrick HlavatyMemberEl Campo FD Work: (979) 543-64412012 Wilson Rd Home: (979) 543-9483El Campo, TX 77437-9500 Fax: (979) 541-6599Email: pat.helen@sbcglobal.netExecutive Board of DirectorsShawn SniderPresidentEdinburg FD Work: (956) 383-76912804 Chateau St Home: (956) 380-1357Edinburg, TX 78539-7057 Fax: (956) 383-7111Email: ssnider@sffma.usKent O. Watts, Jr.1st Vice PresidentLuling FD Work: (830) 875-2412303 E Bowie Home: (830) 875-9239Luling, TX 78648 Fax: (830) 875-6480Email: kwatts@sffma.orgBryan Rickert2nd Vice PresidentCarthage FD Work: (903) 693-0119142 County Road 2791 Home: (903) 693-4855Carthage, TX 75633-6150 Fax: (903) 693-0148Email: brickert@sffma.orgRex W. Klesel3rd Vice PresidentAlvin FD Work: (281) 331-76883537 County Road 326 Home: (281) 331-9465Alvin, TX 77511 Fax: (281) 331-9713Email: rklesel@sffma.comDavid Wade4th Vice PresidentDeer Park VFD Work: (281) 478-72813018 Eileen St Home: (281) 479-7941Deer Park, TX 77536-5022 Fax: (281) 478-7289Email: dwade@sffma.orgRichard Van WinkleSecretaryAlvarado FD Work: (817) 790-8884PO Box 296 Home: (817) 790-3859Alvarado, TX 76009-0296 Fax: (817) 783-6505Email: rvanwinkle@sffma.orgBob Doolittle, Sr.Assistant SecretaryLa Marque FD Work: (409) 938-92601428 Foreman St Home: (409) 938-7357La Marque, TX 77568-5420 Fax: (409) 935-1113Email: rdoolittle@sffma.orgBen KennedyChaplainTAMU - College Station Work: (979) 862-7420PO Box 11859 Home: (979) 774-0819College Station, TX 77842-1859 Fax: (979) 458-0649Email: bkennedy@sffma.orgDonnie PickardPast PresidentOvilla FD Work: (972) 617-7375307 E University St Home: (972) 617-2498Ovilla, TX 75154-3401 Fax: (972) 617-5793Email: dpickard@sffma.orgChris BarronExecutive DirectorSFFMA Work: (512) 454-34734450 Frontier Trl Fax: (512) 453-1876Austin, TX 78745-1514 Email: cbarron@sffma.orgWill CollierDeputy Executive DirectorSFFMA Work: (512) 454-37434450 Frontier Trl Fax: (512) 453-1876Austin, TX 78745-1514 Email: wcollier@sffma.orgJesse NorrisFriberg-Cooper VFD26 | Fall 2008 TEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas FirefightersMascotJim WhiteBoard ParliamentarianOverton FD Home: (903) 834-3457304 E Mundy St Email: jwhite@sffma.orgOverton, TX 75684-1734Certification BoardRobert F. Weiss Chairman/Zone 1Brenham FD Work: (979) 836-16881508 W Main St Fax: (979) 836-2641Brenham, TX 77833-3458 Cell: (979) 251-1355Email: rweiss@sffma.orgJim White Vice Chairman/Zone 8Overton FD Home: (903) 834-3457304 E Mundy St Fax: (903) 834-3625Overton, TX 75684-1734 Email: jwhite@sffma.orgBarry L. Fuhrken Secretary/Zone 4Bishop FD Work: (361) 584-6828400 E 2nd St Fax: (361) 584-6168Bishop, TX 78343-2235 Email: bfuhrken@sffma.orgRichard Douglas Baker Asst Sec/Zone 18West I-10 FD Home: (281) 345-19124414 Bunting Meadow Dr Cell: (832) 573-6472Katy, TX 77449-5511Email: dbaker@sffma.orgDonald L. Pullin Zone 2Refugio FD Work: (361) 526-2114PO Box 398 Home: (361) 526-2119Refugio, TX 78377-0398 Fax: (361) 526-2222Cell: (361) 935-6345Email: trcity@tisd.net

Guadalupe District 02PRESGerald S. WenigerPresidentSeguin FD Work: (830) 401-2310PO Box 215 Home: (830) 560-2707Seguin, TX 78156 Fax: (830) 401-2322Email: gweniger@satx.rr.comDistrict MapJimmy Lee EllisPermian Basin DistrictWest Odessa VFD Inc. Work: (432) 381-30332622 Beaty Ave Home: (432) 580-8317Odessa, TX 79763-2544 Fax: (432) 580-4153Email: jimellis@swbell.netLarry G. IngramNorth Central DistrictCresson FD Work: (817) 838-4660PO Box 6 Home: (817) 396-4320Cresson, TX 76035-0006 Fax: (817) 396-4844Email: chief730@yahoo.comJames Richard Van Winkle Executive Board LiaisonAlvarado FD Work: (817) 790-8884PO Box 296 Home: (817) 790-3859Alvarado, TX 76009-0296 Fax: (817) 783-6505Email: chief7900@yahoo.comBob J. LooneyPast President Liaison220 Juniper St Home: (817) 473-1182Mansfield, TX 76063-1815 Email: palintex@yahoo.comWill CollierDeputy Executive DirectorSFFMA Work: (512) 454-37434450 Frontier Trl Fax: (512) 453-1876Austin, TX 78745-1514 Email: wcollier@sffma.orgDistrict OfficersCentral Texas District 01PRESWilliam H. HarrisPresidentCameron FD Work: (254) 697-47021603 Sunset Cir Home: (254) 697-4604Cameron, TX 76520-1004 Fax: (254) 697-3040John Joseph MendozaSecretaryCameron FD Work: (254) 697-4702611 E 5th St Home: (254) 697-4011Cameron, TX 76520 Fax: (254) 697-3040Email: mendo30@yahoo.comTEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas FirefightersSteven C. SimpsonSecretarySeguin FD Work: (830) 401-2310110 Elm St Home: 512-379-0309Seguin, TX 78155-4714 Fax: (830) 401-2322Tri-Rivers District 03PRESRex W. KleselPresidentAlvin FD Work: (281) 331-76883537 County Road 326 Home: (281) 331-9465Alvin, TX 77511-1564 Fax: (281) 331-9713Email: rklesel@cityhall.cityofalvin.comMichelle CornellSecretaryPecan Grove FD Work: (281) 341-66771940 Melody Ln Fax: (281) 239-8509Richmond, TX 77469-2412 Email: mcornell@lcisd.orgSouth Central District 04PRESMark W. LubianskiPresidentAnnaville FD Work: (361) 241-13724118 Woodland Creek Dr Home: (361) 241-6867Corpus Christi, TX 78410-3761 Fax: (361) 242-2562Email: mlubianski@annavillevfd.comElena SanchezSecretarySinton FD Work: (361) 364-2381817 Hamilton Fax: (361) 364-3781Sinton, TX 78387-2716Rio Grande Valley District 05PRESEduardo ContrerasPresidentEdcouch FD Work: (956) 262-2140PO Box 2 Home: (956) 262-5340Edcouch, TX 78538-0002 Fax: (956) 262-4953Email: contreraser2301@aol.comMaricruz TovarSecretary212 W McIntyre St Work: (956) 383-5661Edinburg, TX 78541-3340 Email: mtovar@ci.edinburg.tx.usGulf Coast District 06PRESRex W. KleselPresidentAlvin FD Work: (281) 331-76883537 County Road 326 Home: (281) 331-9465Alvin, TX 77511-1564 Fax: (281) 331-9713Email: rklesel@cityhall.cityofalvin.comMichael Allen RichterSecretaryNeedville FD Work: (979) 793-4262PO Box 607 Home: (713) 793-6928Needville, TX 77461-0607 Fax: (979) 793-7255Email: richtmic@co.fort-bend.tx.usEast Texas District 07PRESJoe Herrera, IIIPresidentBeaumont Fire/Rescue Services Work: (409) 880-39011050 20th St Fax: (409) 880-3934Beaumont, TX 77706-4710 Email: jtherrera@sbcglobal.netFax: (409) 880-3934Fall 2008 | 29

Dennis M. GiffordSecretaryLumberton Fire & EMS Work: (409) 755-6031115 Candlewick Dr Home: (409) 755-3379Lumberton, TX 77657-7291 Fax: (409) 751-6237Email: dennismgifford@aol.comNortheast Texas District 08PRESDennis Dale GagePresidentKilgore FD Home: (903) 987-3908PO Box 379Gladewater, TX 75647-0379Email: operationschief@kilgorepublicsafety.comF. Jim White SecretaryOverton FD Home: (903) 834-3457304 E Mundy St Email: jwhite@sffma.orgOverton, TX 75684-1734North Texas District 09PRESDavid P. AllenPresidentPO Box 1221 Work: (972) 291-1011Red Oak, TX 75154-1221 Home: (972) 617-9729Fax: (972) 291-3473Email: david.allen@cedarhilltx.comKaren PickardSecretary307 E University Work: (214) 616-2497Ovilla, TX 75154-3401 Home: (972) 617-2498Email: karen.pickard@ussouthwestern.eduRed River District 10PRESRodney A. RyallsPresidentBurkburnett FD Work: (940) 569-35531037 Jewel Ave Home: (940) 569-2683Burkburnett, TX 76354-3333 Email: rryalls@msn.comScott L. WhiteSecretaryBurkburnett FD Work: (940) 569-3553612 S Oklahoma Cutoff Home: (940) 733-5955Burkburnett, TX 76354 Email: dragoonsaber@yahoo.comMid-West Texas District 11PRESSteve E. CochranSecretaryMerkel FD Work: (325) 928-4725100 Kent St Home: (325) 928-5304Merkel, TX 79536-3612 Fax: (325) 846-4139Email: stevec@taylortel.netPanhandle District 12PRESBilly Craig DuBoisPresidentFloydada FD Work: (806) 983-2834127 J B Ave Home: (806) 983-2991Floydada, TX 79235 Fax: (806) 983-5542Hill Country District 14PRESDavid Cody EvansPresidentEden FD Work: (915) 869-2211PO Box 692 Home: (325) 869-5985Eden, TX 76837-0692 Email: cody@muellermetals.comBrent Wayne AllenSecretaryBallinger FD Work: (325) 365-5137PO Box 133 Home: (325) 365-39079th St & Railroad AveEmail: ballen@ballingerfd.comBallinger, TX 76821-0133Wintergarden District 15PRESPatricia G. RustPresidentVal Verde County Rural VFD Work: (830) 774-7640PO Box 421314 Home: (830) 719-5776Del Rio, TX 78842-1314 Email: valverdecountyfire@stx.rr.comJerry Lee RustSecretaryVal Verde County Rural VFD Work: (830) 774-7640PO Box 421314 Home: (830) 719-0470Del Rio, TX 78842 Fax: (830) 774-7686Email: valverdecountyfire@stx.rr.comNorth Central Texas District 16PRESWalter Kent Morgan, Jr. PresidentTin Top FD Work: (817) 594-4776863 Harmony Cir Home: (817) 596-7344Weatherford, TX 76087 Fax: (817) 215-6107Email: beau_morgan@sbcglobal.netRosemary MoningerSecretaryGranbury VFD Work: (817) 579-11119023 Woodlawn Dr Home: (817) 573-3966Granbury, TX 76049-4406 Email: mhm@kha.comDriving Contest CommitteeMichael Allen RichterChairman/Gulf Coast DistrictNeedville FD Work: (979) 793-4262PO Box 607 Home: (713) 793-6928Needville, TX 77461-0607 Fax: (979) 793-7255Email: richtmic@co.fort-bend.tx.usWilliam P. SchiffmanVice Chairman/Gulf Coast DistrictNeedville FD Work: (979) 793-4262PO Box 1019 Home: (409) 793-3464Needville, TX 77461-1019 Fax: (979) 793-7255William H. HarrisCentral Texas DistrictCameron FD Work: (254) 697-47021603 Sunset Cir Home: (254) 697-4604Cameron, TX 76520-1004 Fax: (254) 697-3040Paul HamiltonSecretaryPanhandle FFMA Work: (806) 364-7311PO Box 364 Home: (806) 359-4960Bushland, TX 79012-0364 Fax: (806) 276-5265Email: paulh@wtrt.netPermian Basin District 13PRESKeith MenschSecretaryDenver City FD Work: (806) 592-5426PO Box 115 Home: (806) 592-7940Denver City, TX 79323-0115 Fax: (806) 592-9436Warren Dee HillmanCentral Texas DistrictCameron FD Work: (254) 697-4702RR 1 Box 255 Home: (254) 697-6840404 N Columbus Cameron, TX 76520-9801Fax: (254) 697-3040Ronnie SextonCentral Texas DistrictThorndale FD Work: (512) 431-10243705 Del Norte Blvd. Home: (254) 791-0060Temple, TX 76502Email: wgoldwing04@hot.rr.comTimothy M. BogischGuadalupe DistrictMcQueeney FD Work: (210) 662-9882133 Bobwhite Trl Home: (830) 560-2617Seguin, TX 78155-9461 Fax: (210) 662-9887Email: tbogisch@satx.rr.com30 | Fall 2008 TEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas Firefighters

Alvin John RathTri-Rivers DistrictWharton FD Work: (979) 532-4811 x 601319 N Fulton St Home: (409) 532-4687Wharton, TX 77488-3903 Fax: (979) 282-2199Paul ShannonTri-Rivers DistrictWharton FD Work: (979) 532-4811 x 6011206 Crestmont St Home: (979) 532-8303Wharton, TX 77488-3404 Fax: (979) 282-2199Email: paul.shannon@co.wharton.tx.usDarwin L. Dobesh, Jr.Gulf Coast DistrictRosenberg FD Work: (832) 595-36002111 Arapahoe Dr Home: (832) 309-7716Rosenberg, TX 77471-9606 Fax: (832) 595-3601Email: rfd87@firehousemail.comLewis L. WillardGulf Coast DistrictLa Marque FD Work: (409) 938-9260104 Tulip Trl Fax: (409) 935-1113Lake Jackson, TX 77566-4116Jose F. Hernandez, IIGulf Coast DistrictRosenberg FD Work: (832) 595-36001012 5th St Home: (281) 344-0472Rosenberg, TX 77471 Fax: (832) 595-3601Dennis Dale GageNortheast DistrictKilgore FD Home: (903) 987-3908PO Box 379Gladewater, TX 75647-0379Email: operationschief@kilgorepublicsafety.comDavid Wayne WadeExecutive Board LiaisonDeer Park VFD Work: (281) 478-72813018 Eileen St Home: (281) 479-7941Deer Park, TX 77536-5022 Fax: (281) 478-7289Email: david.wade@dpvfd.orgBob O’BurkePast President Liaison206 McMurry Ave Home: (972) 298-3291Duncanville, TX 75116-3314 Email: bobdotoburke@sbcglobal.netEMS CommitteeKaren PickardChairmanOvilla FD Work: (214) 616-2497307 E University Home: (972) 617-2498Ovilla, TX 75154-3401 Email: karen.pickard@utsouthwestern.eduChuck RichardsonIndustrial Board LiaisonConoco Phillips Work: (979) 491-2034Sweeny Refinery Fax: (979) 491-2241PO Box 866Sweeny, TX 77480-0866Email: chuck.richardson@conocophillips.comPhillip A. Reynolds, Jr.MemberBuchanan VFD Work: (512) 793-6212PO Box 825 Home: (512) 793-2968Buchanan Dam, TX 78609-0825 Fax: (512) 793-6212Email: preyn2@yahoo.comEdward RachtMemberAustin/Travis County EMS System Work: (512) 978-0001517 South Pleasant Valley Rd Fax: (512) 978-0010Austin, TX 78741Email: edward.racht@ci.austin.tx.usSteven PerdueMemberMineral Wells FD Work: (940) 325-29082215 NW 1st Ave Home: (940) 682-8456Mineral Wells, TX 76067-2947 Fax: (940) 327-7731Email: sperdue@mesh.netGerald S. WenigerMemberSeguin FD Work: (830) 401-2310PO Box 215 Home: (830) 560-2707Seguin, TX 78156 Fax: (830) 401-2322Email: gweniger@satx.rr.comWilliam Thomas Gardner MemberLeander FD Work: (512) 528-1664PO Box 319 Home: (512) 258-0188Leander, TX 78646-0319 Email: bgardner@leanderfire.orgScott Allen BrinkleyMemberEastland FD Work: (254) 629-8232709 S Connellee Home: (817) 629-2879Eastland, TX 76448 Fax: (254) 629-2000Email: brinkley@classicnet.netDennis M. GiffordMemberLumberton Fire & EMS Work: (409) 755-6031115 Candlewick Dr Home: (409) 755-3379Lumberton, TX 77657-7291 Fax: (409) 751-6237Email: dennismgifford@aol.comJohn Joseph MendozaMemberCameron FD Work: (254) 697-4702611 E 5th St Home: (254) 697-4011Cameron, TX 76520 Fax: (254) 697-3040Email: mendo30@yahoo.comJason F. DelattreMemberEdinburg FD Work: (956) 383-7691206 Beverly Hills Ln Home: (956) 624-5903Edinburg, TX 78539-4077 Fax: (956) 383-7111Charles Addington, IIMemberWolfforth FD Work: (806) 866-015823 Bennett Cir Home: (806) 866-0137PO Box 845 Fax: (806) 866-0162Wolfforth, TX 79382-2203 Email: driiadd@aol.comLouis N. Molino, Sr.MemberFlynn VFD Work: (936) 396-2424601 Esther Blvd Home: (979) 696-9399Bryan, TX 77802 Fax: (936) 396-1493Email: lnmolino@aol.comChris BarronExecutive DirectorSFFMA Work: (512) 454-34734450 Frontier Trl Fax: (512) 453-1876Austin, TX 78745-1514 Email: cbarron@sffma.orgExhibits CommitteeEd W. MaplesCo-ChairmanAlvin FD Work: (281) 331-7688804 McGinty St Home: (281) 331-6366Alvin, TX 77511-2508 Fax: (281) 331-9713Email: alvinfiremaned@yahoo.comRaymond MurrayCo-ChairmanCasco Industries Work: (800) 551-8787607 W 62nd St Shreveport, LA 71106-2913Fax: (419) 735-4259Email: raymond@cascoindustries.comTEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas FirefightersFall 2008 | 31

Joseph Daniel Ondrasek, Jr. Central Texas DistrictBrazos Co Pct #4 FD Work: (979) 775-01945572 Caroline Dr Home: (979) 822-6162Bryan, TX 77803-7806 Fax: (979) 775-0123Email: jondrasek@msn.comTerry K. MayfieldGuadalupe DistrictSeguin FD Work: (830) 401-231018162 S State Highway 123 Home: (830) 303-3473Seguin, TX 78155 Fax: (830) 401-2322Email: tntmayfield@yahoo.comRobert D. CollinsGulf Coast DistrictAlvin FD Work: (281) 331-7688902 Douglas Home: (281) 331-4048Alvin, TX 77511-3627 Fax: (281) 331-9713Mark Allen LancasterGulf Coast DistrictSanta Fe Fire & Rescue Work: (409) 925-733112510 E Bar Dr Home: (409) 925-1906Santa Fe, TX 77510 Fax: (409) 925-7330Joel D. SumrallGulf Coast DistrictSanta Fe Fire & Rescue Work: (409) 925-733116207 Bluebird St Home: (409) 925-4278Santa Fe, TX 77517 Fax: (409) 925-7330Email: jsumrall@santafefire.orgJerry H. TaylorNortheast DistrictGilmer FD Work: (903) 843-3225885 Azalea Rd Fax: (903) 843-3251Gilmer, TX 75645-3465Wayland J. Price, Jr.North Texas DistrictBlum VFD Work: (254) 874-5553403 N King Home: (254) 687-2578Itasca, TX 76055-2225 Email: wprice@hillsborotx.orgDonnie Glen PickardExecutive Board LiaisonOvilla FD Work: (972) 617-7375307 E University St Home: (972) 617-2498Ovilla, TX 75154-3401 Fax: (972) 617-5793Email: dpickard@ovillafire.orgThomas B. BledsoePast President LiaisonGilmer FD Home: (903) 734-56312596 Bob O Link Rd Email: pegbleds@aol.comGilmer, TX 75645-7340Chris BarronStaff LiaisonSFFMA Work: (512) 454-34734450 Frontier Trl Fax: (512) 453-1876Austin, TX 78745-1514 Email: cbarron@sffma.orgFirefighter of the Year CommitteeBen KennedyCo-ChairmanTAMU - College Station Work: (979) 862-7420PO Box 11859 Home: (979) 774-0819College Station, TX 77842-1859 Fax: (979) 458-0649Email: bkennedy@sffma.orgBarbara MarzeanCo-ChairmanVFIS/Regnier & Associates Work: (512) 448-99283420 Executive Ctr Dr Ste 301 Fax: (512) 448-9929Austin, TX 78731-1626 Email: bmarzean@vfistx.comKip WorkmanGuadalupe DistrictLa Vernia FD Work: (830) 779-2438PO Box 4 Home: (830) 779-4321La Vernia, TX 78121-0004 Fax: (830) 779-1729Donald L. PullinGuadalupe DistrictRefugio FD Work: (361) 526-2114PO Box 398 Home: (361) 526-2119Refugio, TX 78377-0398 Fax: (361) 526-2222Email: trcity@tisd.netMatthew F. CornellTri-Rivers DistrictPecan Grove FD Work: (281) 341-66771940 Melody Ln Home: (281) 342-5583Richmond, TX 77469-2412 Fax: (281) 239-8509Email: cornemat@co.fort-bend.tx.usPerry P. Thomson, Jr.Mid-West Texas DistrictAnson FD Work: (325) 823-22561832 Avenue M Home: (325) 823-2248Anson, TX 79501-6126 Fax: (325) 823-3604William Anthony Cargile MemberSanta Fe Fire & Rescue Work: (409) 925-73314712 Scott St Home: (409) 925-2083Santa Fe, TX 77517 Fax: (409) 925-7330Finance CommitteeAllen J. ScopelChairman/Tri-Rivers DistrictRosenberg FD Work: (832) 595-36003814 Marilyn St Home: (281) 342-5893Rosenberg, TX 77471-5349 Fax: (832) 595-3601Email: scopel@consolidated.netPatrick HlavatyVice Chairman/Past President LiaisonEl Campo FD Work: (979) 543-36002012 Wilson Rd Home: (979) 543-9483El Campo, TX 77437-9500 Fax: (979) 541-6599Email: pat.helen@sbcglobal.netRayford W. GibsonSecretary/Northeast Texas DistrictTatum FD Work: (903) 947-2217PO Box 774 Home: (903) 947-2831Tatum, TX 75691-0774 Fax: (903) 947-2217Email: RGibson951@aol.comEarl WhitmoreCentral Texas DistrictRockdale FD Home: (512) 446-29831211 Zana Ln Email: ew_smokeeater25@hotmail.comRockdale, TX 76567-2751Robert J. ThomasSouth Central DistrictIngleside VFD Work: (361) 776-74223190 Rebecca St Home: (361) 523-9447Ingleside, TX 78362 Fax: (361) 775-1186Email: rj@cbcogem.orgHerbert C. WillichRio Grande Valley DistrictLa Villa VFD Home: (956) 262-1443PO Box 681Email: willichelsa@aol.comElsa, TX 78543-0681Charles Buck StevensGulf Coast DistrictBrookside Village VFD Work: (281) 485-3088PO Box 462 Home: (281) 485-2026Pearland, TX 77588-0462 Fax: (281) 485-9551Email: bstevens@ci.pearland.tx.usJames Kenneth PhilpEast Texas DistrictLumberton Fire & EMS Work: (409) 755-60317866 Walnut Dr Home: (409) 893-9913Lumberton, TX 77657 Fax: (409) 751-6237Email: jphilp@lumbertonfirerescue.org32 | Fall 2008 TEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas Firefighters

Allen R. RussellNorth Texas District404 Meadow Ridge Dr Work: (972) 291-1011Cedar Hill, TX 75104-1975 Home: (972) 291-4064Fax: (972) 291-3473Email: allen.russell@tx.rr.comDelbert Roy RussellMid-West Texas DistrictMerkel FD Work: (325) 928-4725PO Box 665Merkel, TX 79536Gary L. BrownPanhandle DistrictFloydada FD Work: (806) 983-2834129 W Crockett St Home: (806) 983-2618Floydada, TX 79235-3810 Fax: (806) 983-5542Email: gbrown@amaonline.comJerry Don MutschlerPermian Basin DistrictSeminole FD Work: (432) 758-8818308 SW 14th St Home: (432) 758-9100Seminole, TX 79360-4124Brent Wayne AllenHill Country DistrictBallinger FD Work: (325) 365-5137PO Box 133 Home: (325) 365-39079th St & Railroad AveEmail: ballen@ballingerfd.comBallinger, TX 76821-0133Kenneth John KvapilHill Country DistrictBallinger FD Work: (325) 365-513711 Bella Vista Home: (325) 365-5943Ballinger, TX 76821Email: kjk@wcc.netJerry Lee RustWintergarden DistrictVal Verde County Rural VFD Work: (830) 774-7640PO Box 421314 Home: (830) 719-0470Del Rio, TX 78842-1314 Fax: (830) 774-7686Email: valverdecountyfire@stx.rr.comEugene Steven PerdueNorth Central DistrictMineral Wells FD Work: (940) 325-29082215 NW 1st Ave Home: (940) 682-8456Mineral Wells, TX 76067-2947 Fax: (940) 325-2908Email: sperdue@mesh.netBob Doolittle, Sr.Executive BoardLa Marque FD Work: (409) 938-92601428 Foreman St Home: (409) 938-7357La Marque, TX 77568-5420 Fax: (409) 935-1113Email: rdoolittle@sffma.orgDavid WadeExecutive BoardDeer Park VFD Work: (281) 478-72813018 Eileen St Home: (281) 479-7941Deer Park, TX 77536-5022 Fax: (281) 478-7289Email: david.wade@dpvfd.orgShawn SniderExecutive BoardEdinburg FD Work: (956) 383-76912804 Chateau St Home: (956) 380-1357Edinburg, TX 78539-7057 Fax: (956) 383-7111Email: ssnider@ci.edinburg.tx.usRichard Van WinkleExecutive BoardAlvarado FD Work: (817) 790-8884PO Box 296 Home: (817) 790-3859Alvarado, TX 76009-0296 Fax: (817) 783-6505Email: chief7900@yahoo.comKent Watts, Jr.Executive BoardLuling FD Work: (830) 875-2412303 E Bowie Home: (830) 875-9239Luling, TX 78648 Fax: (830) 875-6480Email: kwatts@sffma.orgBryan RickertExecutive BoardCarthage FD Work: (903) 693-0119142 County Road 2791 Home: (903) 693-4855Carthage, TX 75633-6150 Fax: (903) 693-0148Email: brickert@sffma.orgDonnie PickardExecutive BoardOvilla FD Work: (972) 617-7375307 E University St Home: (972) 617-2498Ovilla, TX 75154-3401 Fax: (972) 617-5793Email: dpickard@ovillafire.orgRex W. KleselExecutive BoardAlvin FD Work: (281) 331-76883537 County Road 326 Home: (281) 331-9465Alvin, TX 77511-1564 Fax: (281) 331-9713Email: rklesel@cityhall.cityofalvin.comJim WhiteExecutive BoardOverton FD Home: (903) 834-3457304 E Mundy St Email: jwhite@sffma.orgOverton, TX 75684-1734Ben KennedyExecutive BoardTAMU - College Station Work: (979) 862-7420PO Box 11859 Home: (979) 774-0819College Station, TX 77842-1859 Fax: (979) 458-0649Email: ben.kennedy@teexmail.tamu.eduMichael Wayne Looney Past President Liaison1110 Danbury Dr Work: (817) 399-4303Mansfield, TX 76063-6612 Home: (817) 473-4294Fax: (817) 399-4343Email: hiwaytoons@hotmail.comJ. E. Eckert, III Past President LiaisonFloydada FD Work: (806) 983-2834PO Box 352 Home: (806) 983-5040Floydada, TX 79235-0352 Fax: (806) 983-5542Email: jee_eee@swbell.netChris BarronExecutive DirectorSFFMA Work: (512) 454-34734450 Frontier Trl Fax: (512) 453-1876Austin, TX 78745-1514 Email: cbarron@sffma.orgWill CollierDeputy Executive DirectorSFFMA Work: (512) 454-37434450 Frontier Trl Fax: (512) 453-1876Austin, TX 78745-1514 Email: wcollier@sffma.orgFire Museum BoardCharles Eugene GeeEast Texas DistrictJasper FD Work: (409) 383-6168905 Richardson Home: (409) 384-5282Jasper, TX 75951-2809 Fax: (409) 384-5437Email: queenmother911@sbcglobal.netDennis M. GiffordEast Texas DistrictLumberton Fire & EMS Work: (409) 755-6031115 Candlewick Dr Home: (409) 755-3379Lumberton, TX 77657-7291 Fax: (409) 751-6237Email: dennismgifford@aol.comTEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas FirefightersFall 2008 | 33

Cecily VarnerEast Texas DistrictMauriceville FD Work: (409) 745-1636PO Box 1376 Home: (409) 745-5517Mauriceville, TX 77626 Fax: (409) 745-3946Email: wildfire2@pnx.comEdward Christian Israel MemberBrazoria FD Work: (979) 798-2277206 San Pedro St Apt D Home: (979) 694-2056College Station, TX 77845 Fax: (979) 798-9228Email: bvfd410@att.netDavid Wayne WadeExecutive Board LiaisonDeer Park VFD Work: (281) 478-72813018 Eileen St Home: (281) 479-7941Deer Park, TX 77536-5022 Fax: (281) 478-7289Email: david.wade@dpvfd.orgRobert David WelbornPast President LiaisonSilsbee FD Work: (409) 790-1178PO Box 130 Home: (409) 386-2919Silsbee, TX 77656 Fax: (409) 385-4761Email: BnSWelborn@aol.comGolf Tournament CommitteeBarbara MarzeanLiaisonVFIS/Regnier & Associates Work: (512) 448-99283420 Executive Center Dr Ste 301Fax: (512) 448-9929Austin, TX 78731-1626 Email: bmarzean@vfistx.comRoy C. MercerCo-Chairman/Tri-Rivers District2118 Enchanted Oaks Ln Work: (281) 341-5023Rosenberg, TX 77471-7105 Home: (832) 473-5414Email: roymercer@msn.comtBrian Q. SchefferCo-Chairman/Central Texas DistrictBrenham FD Work: (979) 337-73001304 Prairie Lea St Home: (979) 836-9855Brenham, TX 77833-3912 Fax: (979) 337-7311Email: bscheffer@ci.brenham.tx.usJohn D. SchulzeCentral Texas DistrictBrenham FD Work: (979) 337-73004321 Gaskamp Rd Home: (979) 836-1785Washington, TX 77880 Fax: (979) 337-7311Gregory C. NienstedtCentral Texas DistrictBrenham FD Work: (979) 337-7300601 Farmers Rd Home: (979) 830-1986Brenham, TX 77833-1695 Fax: (979) 337-7311Email: gnienstedt@ci.brenham.tx.usLang S. FlisowskiCentral Texas DistrictBrenham FD Work: (979) 337-73003771 Wieghat Ln Home: (979) 836-5910Brenham, TX 77833-8649 Fax: (979) 337-7311Randall Glen ParkisonCentral Texas DistrictLatium Wesley Greenvine FD Work: (979) 836-69467550 FM 2502 Home: (979) 451-0821Brenham, TX 77833-7616Brian JanesCentral Texas DistrictLatium Wesley Greenvine FD Work: (979) 836-69469804 N Fm 2502 Home: (979) 251-8133Brenham, TX 77833-1595Lloyd R. KlattGuadalupe DistrictEl Campo FD Work: (979) 543-33352012 Wilson Rd Home: (409) 543-6717El Campo, TX 77437 Fax: (979) 541-5062Sean Dickey WenglarGuadalupe DistrictEl Campo FD Work: (979) 543-33352605 Myatt Ln Home: (979) 543-2636El Campo, TX 77437-2123 Fax: (979) 541-5062Email: sean@texanarice.comWilliam F. WilcoxTri-Rivers DistrictEast Bernard FD Work: (979) 335-6060PO Box 907 Home: (409) 335-6503East Bernard, TX 77435-0907 Fax: (979) 335-4139Becky WilcoxTri-Rivers DistrictEast Bernard VFD Home: (979) 335-6503PO Box 907East Bernard, TX 77435-0907Danny C. Cox, Jr.South Central DistrictIngleside VFD Work: (361) 776-74221834 Elizabeth St Home: (361) 729-2411Ingleside, TX 78362-4669 Fax: (361) 775-1186William E. Norris, IIRed River DistrictFriberg-Cooper VFD Work: (940) 447-16647496 Cooper Rd Home: (940) 855-5835Wichita Falls, TX 76305 Email: ffwill38@yahoo.comPaul HamiltonPanhandle DistrictPanhandle FFMA Work: (806) 364-7311PO Box 364 Home: (806) 359-4960Bushland, TX 79012-0364 Fax: (806) 276-5265Email: paulh@wtrt.netWilliam Tyler MorrisNorth Central DistrictRio Vista FD Work: (817) 373-2691PO Box 93 Home: (817) 373-2929Rio Vista, TX 76093-0093Deloss EdwardsPast President Liaison4733 Catclaw Dr Work: (325) 695-5133Abilene, TX 79606-3217 Home: (325) 695-5133Email: deloss36@hotmail.comThomas B. BledsoePast President LiaisonGilmer FD Home: (903) 790-50442596 Bob O Link RdGilmer, TX 75645-7340Texas Industrial EmergencyServices BoardRick DeelChairman/SLOT-03Lubrizol Corp. - Deer Park Work: (832) 260-7852PO Box 158 Fax: (832) 260-7852Deer Park, TX 77536-0158 Email: rick.deel@lubrizol.comTerry E. BoyettVice Chairman/SLOT-02Chevron Phillips Chemical Co Work: (281) 421-68719500 East Fwy Fax: (281) 421-6444Baytown, TX 77521-8155 Email: boyette@cpchem.comGeorge MelderSecretary/SLOT-08FMC Corporation - Bayport Plant Work: (281) 474-871012000 Bay Area Blvd Fax: (281) 474-8736Pasadena, TX 77507-1310 Email: george_melder@fmc.comKeith RussellSLOT-04Eastman Chemical Co Work: (903) 237-6689PO Box 7444 Fax: (903) 237-6678Longview, TX 75607-7444 Email: krussell@eastman.com34 | Fall 2008 TEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas Firefighters

Todd JohnsonSLOT-05Eagle Construction & Environmental Services, L.P.414 FM 1103 Work: (210) 566-8366Cibolo, TX 78108 Fax: (210) 566-6247Email: toddj@ecesi.comBill GibsonSLOT-06Enterprise Products Operating LP Work: (281) 385-4282PO Box 573 Fax: (281) 385-4511Mont Belvieu, TX 77580-0573 Email: bgibson@eprod.comChuck RichardsonSLOT-07Conoco Phillips - Sweeny Refinery Work: (979) 491-2034PO Box 866 Fax: (979) 491-2241Sweeny, TX 77480-0866 Email: chuck.richardson@conocophillips.comMike HaasSLOT-09Texas Petrochemicals LP Work: (713) 475-77208600 Park Place Blvd Fax: (713) 740-3040Houston, TX 77017-2599 Email: Mike.Haas@txpetrochem.comGeoffrey N. AtwoodSLOT-10Refinery Terminal Fire Company Work: (361) 885-7107PO Box 4162 Fax: (361) 241-4568Corpus Christi, TX 78469-4162 Email: gatwood@rtfc.orgRodney KovalcikSLOT-11ExxonMobil Company Work: (281) 834-40065000 Bayway Dr Fax: (281) 834-0021Baytown, TX 77520-2123 Email: rodney.r.kovalick@exxonmobil.comJames PursellSLOT-12Valero Energy Corporation Work: (210) 345-3054PO Box 696000 Fax: (210) 370-4716San Antonio, TX 78269-6000 Email: james.pursell@valero.comDavid CaveSLOT-13CITGO Refining and Chem Co Work: (361) 844-52411801 Nueces Bay Blvd Fax: (361) 844-5113Corpus Christi, TX 78407-2221 Email: dcave@citgo.comBrian SossamanSLOT-14Lyondell Chemical Co. Work: (281) 452-87958280 Sheldon Rd Fax: (281) 457-8098Channelview, TX 77530 Email: Brian.Sossaman@Lyondell.comJody JacksonSLOT-15Total Petrochemicals USA Inc. Work: (281) 476-3726PO Box 888 Fax: (281) 476-3821Deer Park, TX 77536-0888 Email: jody.jackson@total.comLee R. KaderliSLOT-16ExxonMobil Chemical Co - MBPP Work: (281) 834-941713330 Hatcherville Road Fax: (281) 834-9674Mont Belvieu, TX 77580 Email: lee.r.kaderli@exxonmobil.comDave SnellSLOT-17TXU - Energy Plaza Work: (214) 812-47341601 Bryan St Fl 37090 Home: (972) 291-9687Dallas, TX 75201-3430 Fax: (214) 812-3159Email: wsnell1@txu.comJeff HoffstadtSLOT-18Enterprise Products Operating LPTexas Region Emergency Response Team10647 Gulfdale Work: (210) 528-3252San Antonio, TX 78216-9863 Fax: (210) 528-4232Email: jhoffstadt@eprod.comKent DelaneySLOT-19Dow Chemical Co - La Port Work: (713) 246-0696PO Box 685 Fax: (713) 246-0577La Porte, TX 77572-0685 Email: akdelaney@dow.comRobert MooreSLOT-20TEEX-ESTI Work: (979) 862-4469301 Tarrow Home: (979) 255-0084Texas A&M UniversityCollege Station, TX 77843-0001Email: robert.moore@teexmail.tamu.eduShawn Michael SniderExecutive Board LiaisonEdinburg FD Work: (956) 383-76912804 Chateau St Home: (956) 380-1357Edinburg, TX 78539-7057 Fax: (956) 383-7111Email: ssnider@ci.edinburg.tx.usJoseph Dallas RenfrewPast President LiaisonSeminole FD Work: (432) 758-88181595 Nuclear Science Rd Home: (979) 458-4603College Station, TX 77843 Email: Dallas.Renfrew@teexmail.tamu.eduChris BarronExecutive DirectorSFFMA Work: (512) 454-34734450 Frontier Trl Fax: (512) 453-1876Austin, TX 78745-1514 Email: cbarron@sffma.orgWill CollierDeputy Executive DirectorSFFMA Work: (512) 454-37434450 Frontier Trl Fax: (512) 453-1876Austin, TX 78745-1514 Email: wcollier@sffma.orgMemorial CommitteeBen KennedyCo-Chairman/ChaplainTAMU - College Station Work: (979) 862-7420PO Box 11859 Home: (979) 774-0819College Station, TX 77842-1859 Fax: (979) 458-0649Email: ben.kennedy@teexmail.tamu.eduDavid Wayne WadeCo-Chairman/4th Vice PresidentDeer Park VFD Work: (281) 478-72813018 Eileen St Home: (281) 479-7941Deer Park, TX 77536-5022 Fax: (281) 478-7289Email: david.wade@dpvfd.orgMarcie DoolittleLadies Auxiliary Liaison1428 Foreman St Home: (409) 938-7357La Marque, TX 77568-5420Dixie WhitmoreAuxiliary ChaplainTFA Chaplain Home: (512) 446-29831211 Zana Ln Email: msmusic71@hotmail.comRockdale, TX 76567-2751William Anthony Cargile MemberSanta Fe Fire & Rescue Work: (409) 925-73314712 Scott St Home: (409) 925-2083Santa Fe, TX 77517 Fax: (409) 925-7330Edna SniderMember2804 Chateau St Home: (956) 380-1357Edinburg, TX 78539-7057Patrick HlavatyPast President LiaisonEl Campo FD Work: (979) 543-64412012 Wilson Rd Home: (979) 543-9483El Campo, TX 77437-9500 Fax: (979) 541-6599Email: pat.helen@sbcglobal.netTEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas FirefightersFall 2008 | 35

Ernest O. Reesing, Jr.Past President LiaisonAlpine FD Work: (432) 837-236610 Sunny Gln Home: (432) 837-2974Alpine, TX 79830-1002National Volunteer Fire CouncilPatrick HlavatyState DirectorEl Campo FD Work: (979) 543-64412012 Wilson Rd Home: (979) 543-9483El Campo, TX 77437-9500 Fax: (979) 541-56599Email: pat.helen@sbcglobal.netDallas RenfrewAlternate State DirectorSeminole FD Work: (432) 758-88181595 Nuclear Science Rd. Home: (979) 458-4603College Station, TX 77843 Email: Dallas.Renfrew@teexmail.tamu.eduPast Presidents of AssociationC. H. Boring, Jr. Past President 19612600 Pualani Way Apt 2301 Home: (808) 924-5370Honolulu, HI 96815-3939 Email: chboring@earthlink.comBilly R. Haynes Past President 1973PO Box 840 Home: (936) 327-8463Livingston, TX 77351-0014 Email: billyrh@LIVINGSTON.NETMike B. Perez, Jr. Past President 19751818 Rosario St Home: (956) 722-1820Laredo, TX 78043-3617Bob O’Burke Past President 1977206 McMurry Ave Home: (972) 298-3291Duncanville, TX 75116-3314 Email: bobdotoburke@sbcglobal.netJack King Past President 1981661B FM 2550 Rd Work: (512) 295-2081Huntsville, TX 77320-1972 Home: (936) 295-3967Fax: (800) 492-3919 PagerEmail: ajackking@aol.comMarvin R. Setzer Past President 1983PO Box 382 Work: (979) 798-2277Brazoria, TX 77422-0382 Home: (979) 798-2727Fax: (979) 798-9228 FC homeEmail: chief405@cebridge.netRay L. Williamson Past President 1984320 E Milam St Work: (979) 532-2111Wharton, TX 77488-5024 Home: (979) 532-0186Bob J. Looney Past President 1986220 Juniper St Home: (817) 473-1182Mansfield, TX 76063-1815 Email: palintex@yahoo.comThomas B. Bledsoe Past President 19872596 Bob O Link Rd Home: (903) 734-5631Gilmer, TX 75645-7340 Email: pegbleds@aol.comErnest O. Reesing, Jr. Past President 198810 Sunny Glen Work: (432) 837-2366Alpine, TX 79830-1002 Home: (432) 837-2974Fax: (732) 386-3299 cellEmail: ernest.reesing@teexmail.tamu.eduGerald Allen Matheaus Past President 19892226 Ripple Creek Work: (281) 232-6871Rosenberg, TX 77471-5429 Home: (281) 342-1711Email: fire_2@sbcglobal.netBilly Ray Mize Past President 1991808 Easy St Work: (940) 322-5281Burkburnett, TX 76354-2617 Home: (940) 569-1841Email: bmize@nortexrpc.orgJ. E. Eckert, III Past President 1992PO Box 352 Work: (806) 983-2834Floydada, TX 79235-0352 Home: (806) 983-5040Fax: (806) 983-5542Email: jee_eee@swbell.netDonald Joe Hoffman Past President 1993PO Box 1747 Work: (979) 836-6795Brenham, TX 77834-1747 Home: (979) 836-9473Fax: (979) 830-7144Email: don.hoffman@sbcglobal.netDonald Arthur Eernisse Past President 1994719 S Hill St Work: (281) 331-7688Alvin, TX 77511-2836 Home: (281) 467-8981Fax: (281) 331-9713Email: shugntx@sbcglobal.netDeloss Edwards Past President 19954733 Catclaw Dr Work: (325) 695-5133Abilene, TX 79606-3217 Home: (325) 695-5133Email: deloss36@hotmail.comPatrick Hlavaty Past President 19972012 Wilson Rd Work: (979) 543-6441El Campo, TX 77437-9500 Home: (979) 543-9483Fax: (979) 541-6599Email: pat.helen@sbcglobal.netTerry K. Mayfield Past President 199918162 S State Highway 123 Work: (830) 401-2310Seguin, TX 78155 Home: (830) 303-3473Fax: (830) 401-2322Email: tntmayfield@yahoo.comDallas Renfrew Past President 20001595 Nuclear Science Rd. Work: (432) 758-8818College Station, TX 77843 Home: (979) 458-4603Email: Dallas.Renfrew@teexmail.tamu.eduMichael Wayne Looney Past President 20011110 Danbury Dr Work: (817) 399-4303Mansfield, TX 76063-6612 Home: (817) 473-4294Fax: (817) 399-4343Email: hiwaytoons@hotmail.comRichard M. Harmon Past President 2002PO Box 1872 Work: (940) 767-7557Wichita Falls, TX 76307-1872 Home: (940) 696-3270Email: rm.harmon@hotmail.comCarl T. Anderson Past President 200312150 14th St Work: (409) 925-7331Santa Fe, TX 77510-2140 Home: (409) 925-5434Fax: (409) 925-7330Email: FDCHIEF700@houston.rr.comDavid Louis Luedeke Past President 2004PO Box 132 Work: (281) 343-00718124 Banker St Home: (979) 793-6821Needville, TX 77461-0132 Fax: (979) 793-7255Email: chief700@consolidated.netRobert David Welborn Past President 2005PO Box 130 Work: (409) 790-1178Silsbee, TX 77656 Home: (409) 386-2919Fax: (409) 385-4761Email: BnSWelborn@aol.com36 | Fall 2008 TEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas Firefighters

Kyle E. Stephens Past President 2007PO Box 331 Work: (940) 627-4530Decatur, TX 76234-0331 Home: (940) 627-2401Fax: (940) 627-7240Email: kstephenstt79@yahoo.comTexas Statewide EmergencyServices Retirement ActFrank TorresChairman/Rio Grande Valley DistrictRaymondville FD Work: (956) 689-5456PO Box 161 Home: (956) 689-6411Raymondville, TX 78580-0161 Email: willems@granderiver.netAllen J. ScopelVice Chairman/Gulf Coast DistrictRosenberg FD Work: (832) 595-36003814 Marilyn St Home: (281) 342-5893Rosenberg, TX 77471-5349 Fax: (832) 595-3601Email: scopel@consolidated.netPatrick J. HullGuadalupe DistrictYoakum FD Work: (361) 293-5125412 Montgomery Home: (361) 293-3056Yoakum, TX 77995-3539 Fax: (361) 293-5125Email: phull@jacobs-weber.comRex W. KleselGulf Coast DistrictAlvin FD Work: (281) 331-76883537 County Road 326 Home: (281) 331-9465Alvin, TX 77511 Fax: (281) 331-9713Email: rklesel@cityhall.cityofalvin.comGracie FloresGulf Coast District711 N Carancahua St Ste 724 Work: (361) 882-1486Corpus Christi, TX 78475-0085 Home: (361) 994-0754Fax: (361) 882-1488Email: gracie_flores@sbcglobal.netKyle A. DonaldsonHill Country DistrictSonora FD Work: (325) 387-2428125 E Castle Hill Rd Home: (325) 387-3313Sonora, TX 76950Lisa Ivie MillerCommissionerFire Fighters’ Pension Commission Work: (512) 936-3372PO Box 12577 Fax: (512) 936-3480Austin, TX 78711-2577 Email: lisa.iviemiller@ffpc.state.tx.usGary Tilton Memorial FirePrevention Contest CommitteeCarl H. TeaffChairman/Hill Country DistrictSonora FD Work: (325) 387-2428211 E Mulberry Home: (325) 387-2773Sonora, TX 76950Fred Hart, Jr.Co-Chairman/North Texas DistrictDeSoto FD Work: (972) 230-9680211 E Pleasant Run Rd Home: (972) 217-4806Desoto, TX 75115-3901 Fax: (972) 230-5817Email: fhart@ci.desoto.tx.usJohn Joseph MendozaCentral Texas DistrictCameron FD Work: (254) 697-4702611 E 5th St Home: (254) 697-4011Cameron, TX 76520 Fax: (254) 697-3040Email: mendo30@yahoo.comC. Wayne Drummond Central Texas District6210 Dudley Rd Work: (254) 938-2188Troy, TX 76579 Home: (254) 913-1364Email: troyobbvfd@juno.comTEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas FirefightersLeslie CollinsGuadalupe DistrictEl Campo FD Work: (979) 543-3335911 Avenue F Home: (979) 543-4267El Campo, TX 77437-2800 Fax: (979) 541-5062Lloyd R. KlattGuadalupe DistrictEl Campo FD Work: (979) 543-33352012 Wilson Rd Home: (409) 543-6717El Campo, TX 77437 Fax: (979) 541-5062Valerie Fuhrken400 E 2nd StBishop, TX 78343South Central DistrictAntonio Trevino, Jr.Rio Grande Valley DistrictEdinburg FD Work: (956) 580-87051418 E Fay St Home: (956) 287-8108Edinburg, TX 78539-4950 Fax: (956) 383-7111Frank GarciaRio Grande Valley DistrictHarlingen FD Work: (956) 216-57002014 E Austin Ave Home: (956) 428-1253Harlingen, TX 78550-5159 Fax: (956) 430-6672Albert R. CantuGulf Coast DistrictRichmond FD Work: (281) 232-6871112 Jackson St Home: (281) 343-0928Richmond, TX 77469-3105Gerald T. RobersonGulf Coast DistrictChannelview FD Work: (281) 452-5782418 Engler Home: (870) 234-2552Magnolia, AR 71753 Fax: (281) 452-2100Email: gr0115@sbcglobal.netGeorge E. TullgrenGulf Coast DistrictDeer Park VFD Work: (281) 478-7281602 Kingston Ct Home: (281) 479-8253Deer Park, TX 77536-6126 Fax: (281) 478-7289Email: george.tullgren@dpvfd.orgJoe Garcia, Jr.Gulf Coast DistrictRichmond FD Work: (281) 232-6871112 S 2nd St Home: (281) 341-1161Richmond, TX 77469-3127Dorothy M. Funkhouser Gulf Coast DistrictKaty FD Work: (281) 391-35002633 Village Ct Home: (281) 391-6289Katy, TX 77493-1234 Fax: (281) 391-6515Email: dotti.funkhouser@usi.bizDerek L. BrownGulf Coast DistrictRichmond FD Work: (281) 232-6871406 Land Grant Dr Home: (281) 341-8002Richmond, TX 77469-2106Frankie SmithEast Texas DistrictMadisonville VFD Work: (936) 348-3317107 W Turner St Home: (936) 348-5808Madisonville, TX 77864-3130 Fax: (936) 349-0149Nancy S. HallNortheast DistrictGilmer FD Work: (903) 843-32251003 Antelope Rd Fax: (903) 843-3251Gilmer, TX 75644Bob R. StulceNorth Texas DistrictMansfield FD Work: (817) 276-4700810 Hummingbird Home: (817) 473-9156Mansfield, TX 76063-1517 Fax: (817) 276-4787Email: bstulce@juno.comRobert A. UnderwoodPermian Basin DistrictRankin FD Work: (432) 693-2252PO Box 300 Home: (915) 693-2476Rankin, TX 79778-0300 Fax: (432) 693-2303Fall 2008 | 37

Christopher MoningerNorth Central DistrictPecan Plantation FD Work: (817) 573-16439518 Monticello Dr Fax: (817) 579-6888Granbury, TX 76049-4508Kerry Cox500 McKown DrMansfield, TX 76063Ladies Auxiliary LiaisonShari SchiffmanMemberPO Box 1019 Work: (979) 793-3464Needville, TX 77461Email: shari.schiffman@nlcinc.comKent O. Watts, Jr.Executive Board LiaisonLuling FD Work: (830) 875-2412303 E Bowie Home: (830) 875-9239Luling, TX 78648 Fax: (830) 875-6480Email: kwatts@sffma.orgBryan Allen RickertExecutive Board LiaisonCarthage FD Work: (903) 693-0119142 County Road 2791 Home: (903) 693-4855Carthage, TX 75633-6150 Fax: (903) 693-0148Email: brickert@sffma.orgCarl T. AndersonPast President LiaisonSanta Fe Fire & Rescue Work: (409) 925-733112150 14th St Home: (409) 925-5434Santa Fe, TX 77510-2140 Fax: (409) 925-7330Email: FDCHIEF700@houston.rr.comBilly Ray MizePast President LiaisonBurkburnett FD Work: (940) 322-5281808 Easy St Home: (940) 569-1841Burkburnett, TX 76354-2617 Email: bmize@nortexrpc.orgTerry K. MayfieldPast President LiaisonSeguin FD Work: (830) 401-231018162 S State Highway 123 Home: (830) 303-3473Seguin, TX 78155 Fax: (830) 401-2322Email: tntmayfield@yahoo.comPumper Race CommitteeJohn Stephen Donnelly Overall ChairmanPearland FD Home: (281) 489-39183913 Cedarwood Dr Email: jsd3913@yahoo.comPearland, TX 77584-9248Henry Lee Horelica3-Man ChairmanCameron FD Work: (254) 697-47021505 N Travis Ave Home: (254) 697-4013Cameron, TX 76520-1647 Fax: (254) 697-3040Duane Henry6-Man ChairmanConroe FD Work: (936) 522-3080PO Box 433 Home: (936) 396-9151Normangee, TX 77871-0433 Fax: (936) 522-3079Email: duane777@usa.netGary D. Williams3-6 Ladies ChairmanPasadena FD Work: (713) 475-55544302 Blind River Dr Home: (281) 487-8483Pasadena, TX 77504-3118 Fax: (713) 473-0524Email: gwilliams2034@comcasst.netFrank RubioRockdale FDPO Box 820Rockdale, TX 76567-0820Central Texas DistrictEmail: frank.rubio@boral.comBarry L. FuhrkenSouth Central DistrictBishop FD Work: (361) 584-6828400 E 2nd St Home: (361) 584-3206Bishop, TX 78343-2235 Fax: (361) 584-6168Email: BFuhrken@stx.rr.comRoyce Glenn JohnsonNortheast DistrictCenter FD Work: (936) 598-3288PO Box 291 Home: (936) 598-3622Center, TX 75935-0291Crystal SowellLadies Auxiliary LiaisonRR1 Box 124 Home: (936) 275-0979San Augustine, TX 75972 Email: csowell78@gmail.comMarcie DoolittleLadies Auxiliary Liaison1428 Foreman St Home: (409) 938-7357La Marque, TX 77568-5420Shawn Michael SniderExecutive Board LiaisonEdinburg FD Work: (956) 383-76912804 Chateau St Home: (956) 380-1357Edinburg, TX 78539-7057 Fax: (956) 383-7111Email: ssnider@ci.edinburg.tx.usDavid Louis LuedekePast President LiaisonNeedville FD Work: (281) 343-0071PO Box 132 Home: (979) 793-68218124 Banker St Fax: (979) 793-7255Needville, TX 77461-0132 Email: chief700@consolidated.netC. H. Boring, Jr. Past President Liaison2600 Pualani Way Apt 2301 Home: (808) 924-5370Honolulu, HI 96815-3939 Email: chboring@earthlink.comGerald Allen MatheausPast President LiaisonRichmond FD Work: (281) 232-68712226 Ripple Creek Home: (281) 342-1711Rosenberg, TX 77471-5429 Email: fire_2@sbcglobal.netSergeant-at-Arms CommitteeRobert Eugene KleenChairman/Central Texas DistrictBlanket VFD Work: (325) 748-31717800 CR 329 Home: (512) 415-7049Blanket, TX 76432 Fax: (325) 748-3171Email: rekles@earthlink.netMatthew F. CornellCo-ChairmanPecan Grove FD Work: (281) 341-66771940 Melody Ln Home: (281) 342-5583Richmond, TX 77469-2412 Fax: (281) 239-8509Email: cornemat@co.fort-bend.tx.usRoy L. CrouchCentral Texas DistrictHearne FD Work: (979) 279-5411210 Rose Marie Home: (409) 279-3316Hearne, TX 77859-3005 Fax: (979) 279-5411Email: sdc1953@sbcglobal.netEdwin M. BakerGuadalupe DistrictStockdale FD Work: (830) 996-1383602 S 7th St Home: (830) 391-1713Stockdale, TX 78160-6031 Fax: (830) 996-1366Email: edwin.baker@stockdalees.orgPaul ShannonTri-Rivers DistrictWharton FD Work: (979) 532-4811 x 6011206 Crestmont St Home: (979) 532-8303Wharton, TX 77488-3404 Fax: (979) 282-2199Email: paul.shannon@co.wharton.tx.usTomas SanchezSouth Central DistrictOdem FD Work: (361) 368-2831PO Box 273 Home: (361) 364-4553Sinton, TX 78387-0273 Fax: (361) 368-4100Email: tfirebone@aol.com38 | Fall 2008 TEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas Firefighters

Ricardo SaldanaRio Grande Valley DistrictMission FD Work: (956) 580-87052004 N. Bryan Rd Home: (956) 580-8705Mission, TX 78572 Fax: (956) 580-8712Email: rsaldana@mission.lib.tx.usJeffery D. ThomsonGulf Coast DistrictAlvin FD Work: (281) 331-76882305 County Road 284 Home: (281) 585-8314Alvin, TX 77511 Fax: (281) 331-9713Email: avfd22@sbcglobal.netHarry Kendall Hunting, III Gulf Coast DistrictAlvin FD Work: (281) 331-76881738 Glenview Dr Home: (281) 585-2290Alvin, TX 77511-4329 Fax: (281) 331-9713Email: khunting@cityhall.cityofalvin.comDan L. KeyGulf Coast DistrictFriendswood FD Work: (281) 996-33602204 Pine Dr Home: (281) 996-8655Friendswood, TX 77546-5539 Fax: (28)1-996-3364Email: dannylkey@yahoo.comAnthony ScopelGulf Coast DistrictWestlake FD - Katy Work: (409) 258-33132935 Auburn Falls Ln Home: (281) 342-5893Houston, TX 77084 Fax: (281) 492-2922Email: ajscopel@fbtc.netDennis M. GiffordEast Texas DistrictLumberton Fire & EMS Work: (409) 755-6031115 Candlewick Dr Home: (409) 755-3379Lumberton, TX 77657-7291 Fax: (409) 751-6237Email: dennismgifford@aol.comMicheal L. MeltonNortheast DistrictGilmer FD Work: (903) 843-3225214 Long St Home: (903) 797-2430Gilmer, TX 75645-6602 Fax: (903) 843-3251Email: mmelton@etex.netKaren PickardNorth Texas DistrictOvilla FD Work: (214) 616-2497307 E University Home: (972) 617-2498Ovilla, TX 75154-3401Email: karen.pickard@utsouthwestern.eduBilly Ray MizeRed River DistrictBurkburnett FD Work: (940) 322-5281808 Easy St Home: (940) 569-1841Burkburnett, TX 76354-2617 Email: bmize@nortexrpc.orgSteve E. CochranMid-West Texas DistrictMerkel FD Work: (325) 928-4725100 Kent St\ Home: (325) 928-5304Merkel, TX 79536-3612 Fax: (325) 846-4139Email: stevec@taylortel.netRichard Thomas Goodney Mid-West Texas DistrictColorado City FD Work: (325) 728-5252950 E 15th St Home: (325) 728-3972Colorado City, TX 79512-4008 Fax: (325) 728-5252Email: fdcc323@aol.comPaul HamiltonPanhandle DistrictPanhandle FFMA Work: (806) 364-7311PO Box 364 Home: (806) 359-4960Bushland, TX 79012-0364 Fax: (806) 276-5265Email: paulh@wtrt.netTommy D. SullivanPermian Basin DistrictHoward County VFD Work: (432) 268-1165114 Brooks Rd Home: (432) 393-5853Big Spring, TX 79720 Fax: (432) 264-0607Email: hcvfd@crcom.netKyle A. DonaldsonHill Country DistrictSonora FD Work: (325) 387-2428125 E Castle Hill Rd Home: (325) 387-3313Sonora, TX 76950Charles E. GarrisWintergarden DistrictPleasanton FD Work: (830) 569-2813312 Tagert Home: (830) 569-4119Pleasanton, TX 78064-3964 Fax: (830) 569-2813Email: plezfire@2fastmail.comTrey BlockerLegislative ConsultantJackson Walker LLP Work: (512) 236-2000100 Congress Avenue, Suite 1100 Fax: (512) 236-2002Austin, TX 78701Ted RegnierMemberVFIS/Regnier & Associates Work: (512) 448-99283420 Executive Center Dr Ste 301 Fax: (512) 448-9929Austin, TX 78731-1626 Email: TRegnier@vfistx.comBob Doolittle, Sr.Executive BoardLa Marque FD Work: (409) 938-92601428 Foreman St Home: (409) 938-7357La Marque, TX 77568-5420 Fax: (409) 935-1113Email: Rrd608@sbcglobal.netDavid WadeExecutive BoardDeer Park VFD Work: (281) 478-72813018 Eileen St Home: (281) 479-7941Deer Park, TX 77536-5022 Fax: (281) 478-7289Email: david.wade@dpvfd.orgShawn SniderExecutive BoardEdinburg FD Work: (956) 383-76912804 Chateau St Home: (956) 380-1357Edinburg, TX 78539-7057 Fax: (956) 383-7111Email: ssnider@ci.edinburg.tx.usRichard Van WinkleExecutive BoardAlvarado FD Work: (817) 790-8884PO Box 296 Home: (817) 790-3859Alvarado, TX 76009-0296 Fax: (817) 783-6505Email: chief7900@yahoo.comKent O. Watts, Jr.Executive BoardLuling FD Work: (830) 875-2412303 E Bowie Home: (830) 875-9239Luling, TX 78648 Fax: (830) 875-6480Email: kwatts@sffma.orgBryan RickertExecutive BoardCarthage FD Work: (903) 693-0119142 County Road 2791 Home: (903) 693-4855Carthage, TX 75633-6150 Fax: (903) 693-0148Email: brickert@sffma.orgDonnie PickardExecutive BoardOvilla FD Work: (972) 617-7375307 E University St Home: (972) 617-2498Ovilla, TX 75154-3401 Fax: (972) 617-5793Email: dpickard@ovillafire.orgRex W. KleselExecutive BoardAlvin FD Work: (281) 331-76883537 County Road 326 Home: (281) 331-9465Alvin, TX 77511-1564 Fax: (281) 331-9713Email: rklesel@cityhall.cityofalvin.com40 | Fall 2008 TEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas Firefighters

Jim WhiteExecutive BoardOverton FD Home: (903) 834-3457304 E Mundy St Email: jwhite@sffma.orgOverton, TX 75684-1734Ben KennedyExecutive BoardTAMU - College Station Work: (979) 862-7420PO Box 11859 Home: (979) 774-0819College Station, TX 77842-1859 Fax: (979) 458-0649Email: ben.kennedy@teexmail.tamu.eduCarl T. AndersonPast President LiaisonSanta Fe Fire & Rescue Work: (409) 925-733112150 14th St Home: (409) 925-5434Santa Fe, TX 77510-2140 Fax: (409) 925-7330Email: FDCHIEF700@comcast.netTCFP Board RepresentativesKelley Martin StalderPresiding Officer/CommissionerParker FD Work: (972) 442-68117273 Moss Ridge Rd Fax: (972) 442-2894Allen, TX 75002-7040 Email: kstalder@tcfp.state.tx.usWalter David Abernathy CommissionerPittsburg FD Work: (903) 856-6392PO Box 992 Home: (903) 856-0589Pittsburg, TX 75686-0992 Fax: (903) 856-0773Email: dabernathy@tfs.tamu.eduTCFP Fire Fighter AdvisoryCommittee RepresentativesCarl T. AndersonMemberSanta Fe Fire & Rescue Work: (409) 925-733112150 14th St Home: (409) 925-5434Santa Fe, TX 77510-2140 Fax: (409) 925-7330Email: FDCHIEF700@houston.rr.comTCFP Funds AllocationAdvisory Committee RepresentativesAlfred E. GerikMemberWest FD Work: (254) 826-5106600 N Marable Home: (254) 826-5106West, TX 76691-1327Email: agerik@rapidcable.comBuilding & Land CommitteeDonnie PickardChairmanOvilla FD Work: (972) 617-7375307 E University St Home: (972) 617-2498Ovilla, TX 75154-3401 Fax: (972) 617-5793Email: dpickard@ovillafire.orgDallas RenfrewMemberSeminole FD Work: (432) 758-88181595 Nuclear Science Rd Home: (979) 458-4603College Station, TX 77843 Email: Dallas.Renfrew@teexmail.tamu.eduChris BarronExecutive DirectorSFFMA Work: (512) 454-34734450 Frontier Trl Austin, TX 78745-1514Fax: (512) 453-1876Email: cbarron@sffma.orgWill CollierDeputy Executive DirectorSFFMA Work: (512) 454-34734450 Frontier Trl Fax: (512) 453-1876Austin, TX 78745-1514 Email: wcollier@sffma.orgConference BBQ Cooking CommitteeKyle E. StephensChairmanDecatur FD Work: (940) 627-4530PO Box 331 Home: (940) 627-2401Decatur, TX 76234-0331 Fax: (940) 627-7240Email: kstephens@sffma.orgHoward M. AndersonMemberLake Jackson FD Work: (979) 415-271959 Garland Ct Home: (409) 297-4351Lake Jackson, TX 77566-6123 Fax: (979) 285-0368Ruben J. LopezMemberEdinburg FD Work: (956) 383-7691808 N Roberts St Home: (956) 457-2543Edinburg, TX 78541-2333 Fax: (956) 383-7111International Member CommitteeRosendo GarciaChairman6215 Guyler St Work: (817) 561-2236Wallis, TX 77485-9495 Home: (979) 324-5685Fax: (817) 561-2183Email: rosendo.garcia@teexmail.tamu.eduRene AlanizMemberMcAllen FD Work: (956) 972-7500PO Box 220 Fax: (956) 682-0377McAllen, TX 78501-7059Juan Angel Gloria, Jr.MemberEdinburg FD Work: (956) 383-7691PO Box 62 Home: (956) 292-2104Edinburg, TX 78540 Fax: (956) 383-7111Carl T. AndersonMemberSanta Fe Fire & Rescue Work: (409) 925-733112150 14th St Home: (409) 925-5434Santa Fe, TX 77510-2140 Fax: (409) 925-7330Email: FDCHIEF700@comcast.netPatrick HlavatyMemberEl Campo FD Work: (979) 543-64412012 Wilson Rd Home: (979) 543-9483El Campo, TX 77437-9500 Fax: (979) 541-6599Email: pat.helen@sbcglobal.netTEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas FirefightersFall 2008 | 41

State Firemen’s and Fire Marshals’ AssociationMembership BenefitsReasons to be a SFFMA Member:• Membership with 20,000 other Texas Fire Fighters & Fire Service Professionals• Certification Programs available in Fire Suppression, Investigation, Inspection, and Prevention,Driver/Operator, and Instructor• SFFMA Online – Web-based Online Training Reporting Tool• The Fire Service’s Legislative Voice at the State and Federal Level• Sponsorship of Texas Fire Training School at Texas A&M University• $3000 Accidental Death and Dismemberment Policy for all SFFMA Members• $5000 Immediate Line of Duty Death Benefit• Discounts on IFSTA, Delmar, Jones & Bartlett, McGraw Hill, International Code Council,Action Training Systems, PennWell & Brady Materials• Monthly E* InfoFire Email based Newsletter, InfoFire Conference Edition, andAnnual Texas Firemen Magazine• Annual Training Conference & Convention• Industrial Fire Services Support through TIESB• Approval Entity for Certified Firefighter Automobile License Plates• Nominating Authority for Governor’s Appointments to various Fire Service Agencies• Authority for additions to the State Firemen’s Monument at State Capitol• Membership on TEEX & Texas A&M Fire School Advisory Board• The SFFMA Website at www.sffma.org for up to date information concerning the fire service• Credit Card Discount Program – SFFMA / Bank of America Credit Card• Travel, Retail and Insurance benefits through Association Member Benefits Advisors• Discounts on Security Alarm Monitoring through Monitronics• Cellular Phone Service/Equipment Discounts through AT&T, Sprint/Nextel, and T*Mobile42 | Fall 2008 TEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas Firefighters

TEAM WORK DOES COUNTOn 8/15/08 at 18:22 hrs. The White Oak fire department received a callthat a 65 yr old man had driven into a pond on a 4 wheeler. Upon arrival ofRescue 1 with Capt. Bill McBride and firefighter Jake Matchett aboard, theynoticed a male in the water with the 4 wheeler on top of him. White OakPolice officers Brandon Roberson and Rex Haynes were on scene assistingthe ambulance and Fire Department with directions to the location, thefirefighters pulled the man from the water, after freeing him from under themachine and started CPR. Assist. Chief Lewis Reavis arrived to assist themwith CPR. The ambulance crew , Paramedic Keith Kosan and EMT JimmyLawrence from East Texas Medical Center arrived and started advanced lifesupport. As they transported the patient to the hospital, they radioed the firestation for more help, Capt. Jeff Gibbs boarded the ambulance in front ofthe fire station, and assisted on the way to the hospital. Just before arrivingat the hospital, the crew of three White Oak firefighters and ParamedicKosan got a pulse and blood pressure on the patient.If you ever wondered what a volunteer fireman does, this is it. Althoughthis patient did pass away, this family had their loved one for 2 extra daysbecause of the training and dedication of these men. A medical call does notalways turn out in this manner, but once in a while all the hard work anddedication pays off and this is what keeps a firefighter going to the training,because they know God may use them to make a difference. If you want tomake a difference The White Oak Volunteer Fire Department needs you.Call us to learn how you can help.I want to commend these men for their team work, dedication and serviceto the Citizens of White Oak.© 2008 Te x a s M u t u a l I n s u r a n c e C o m p a n yJim NallFire ChiefCity of White OakThe Emergency Service Organization group discount program respondsto the urgent need for lower workers’ comp premiums. You’ll join withother emergency response providers to lower your workers’ comp costs —and our health care network lets eligible policyholders receive anadditional discount of up to 12 percent. The help you need is on the way.H E R E F O R T E X A S . H E R E T O S T A Y. ®We would like to thank everyone who helped makethe Children’s Bucket Brigade and the Wayne E.Popp memorial Cook-off a success. We wouldlike to thank Hall-Mark Fire Apparatus - Texasand David Vire for the donation of the trophies forthe Bar-B-Que cook-off. We would like to thankthe Alvin Ladies Auxiliary, Guadalupe DistrictLadies Auxiliary, Bob & Ann Stulce, Gulf CoastDistrict Ladies Auxiliary, Molly Pogor and ReneeEvans for donations towards the bobble-headsfor the Children’s Bucket Brigade. It is the loveand dedication of people like you who help makethese things possible for everyone to enjoy at theconventions.TEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas FirefightersThanks againSFFMA 1st Vice PresidentKent & Louise WattsTexas’ leading provider of workers’ compensation insuranceFor more information about the ESO purchasing group, call BarbaraMarzean at VFIS of Texas/Regnier & Associates at (800) 252-9435.Texas Mutual has services for non-English speakers available upon request.Workers’ comp health care network available for eligible policyholders.Some of the SFFMAMember Benefits!Fall 2008 | 43

Valley District will give additional moneyfor winners in 6 Man and 6 Women.1 st Place – $2502 nd Place – $1503 rd Place – $100Plus a custom built trophy for:1 st Place 6 Men &1 st Place 6 Women44 | Fall 2008 TEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas Firefighters

Departmentifyouplantoattend.25 YRSOF SERVICEThe Conroe Fire Department will lose one of its finest, as Assistant Chief DuaneHenry retires on July 14, 2008. Chief Henry began his career on July 13, 1983as a firefighter and was promoted to the position of Lieutenant in January of ’87.He then promoted to Battalion Chief in January of ’97 and then to Assistant FireChief in December of ’06. Chief Henry also served as our Training Chief for 3 ½years in Fire Administration.During his tenure he played an active role in representing the Conroe FireDepartment in many conferences and events. He has attended the State Firemen’sand Fire Marshal’s Conference for 41 years without missing one year. Duringthese events, he competed in the pumper races. Chief Henry has brought homemany awards for competing in the Texas Firefighter Olympics over the past 20years, as he is an avid Horseshoe Competitor. Chief Henry has attended theNational Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Maryland 11 times. Chief Henry has alsobeen an instructor at Texas A & M Municipal Fire School for 22 years. He hastwo daughters and two granddaughters that are 8 years old and 5 months old.Duane has a love for gambling and casinos. Many times during his career, he haswalked in with a bundle of one hundred dollar bills from his winning streaks. Heonce won $9,000 on a slot machine and in December of 2007, he was the luckywinner of a new Chevrolet pickup from the Lions Club.Duane has a love for firefighting; he first began as a Volunteer at the ChannelviewFire Department in August of ’63, where he volunteered for 19 years. He beganhis career as a paid firefighter for the City of Baytown in 1980 and worked for 3 years there before joining Conroe in 1983. He also worked as a Mail Carrierfor the Postal Service for 14 years before joining the Baytown Fire Department. Chief Henry will be greatly missed. He has been a dedicated employeealways going above and beyond the call of duty. In January 2008, Fire Station #5 was dedicated to him for his 25 years of faithful service. Please join us onJuly 12, 2008 at the Horseshoe club on Airport Rd to honor Chief Henry in his retirement ceremony. The ceremony will begin at 6:00 p.m. Please RSVPto Sami or Meloney in the Fire Department if you plan to attend.David Wadeon his election to SFFMA’s 4th Vice PresidentTEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas FirefightersJesse Norrison his election to SFFMA Mascot!Fall 2008 | 45

Hello everyone,We had a great convention in Beaumont. We are now planning for the 2009convention to be held in McAllen. I appreciate each and everyone’s support asyour TFA President and serve with pride in our great organization.We will not have a Member of the Year in 2009. A committee was selected andwe are working on the rules/guidelines to be presented at the 2009 conventionfor your vote.If you or your auxiliary would like to get involved and become more acquainted with the TFA youare welcome to attend our meetings and luncheon. Remember that we are here to serve you. If I orany of the executive board member can be of service to you or your auxiliary, let us know contactthem.The TFA lost a beloved Past President, Mrs. Shirley Norman, on August 9, 2008. The TexasFireman’s Auxiliary extends our deepest sympathy to her family and loved ones.Blessings to all.TFA President Marcie DoolittleDenim and Diamond JubileeCelebrating 60 Years of TFAPlease join us for a luncheon honoringTFA Past PresidentsTuesday, June 16, 2009Embassy Suites – McAllenBanquet RoomDoors open at 10:30 a.m.Dress is “Denim and Diamonds” – contest for best outfitsMenuBeef Fajitas with Sauteed Peppers & Onions, Two Cheese EnchiladasMexican Rice, Charro BeansCorn & Flour TortillasCake, Iced Tea$17.50 Presale Tickets Only: Now thru May 31, 2009Make checks payable to TFAMail to: Shari Schiffman, PO Box 1019, Needville, TX 77461Auxiliary Name:If any questions call: 713-829-7101__________________________________________Individual Name: __________________________________________Address:____________________________________________________________________________________We needYOUR Help!We are trying to preserve thehistory of the association and theSFFMA Past President’s Badge bylocating all those that might be keptin a fire station, a safe, etc. If youknow of the whereabouts of anyold Past President’s badges, pleasecontact Jack King at AJackKing@aol.com or (936) 295-3967.Phone #:__________________________________________# of Tickets: __________________ X $17.50 = Total Amt Due $___________46 | Fall 2008 TEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas Firefighters

Hotelsavailable:Embassy Suites – Host Hotel1800 S. Second Street$119/night956-686-3000Room Block Name: StateFiremen’s & Fire Marshals’Join us in McAllen for the SFFMA133rd Annual Conference!June 11-17 at the NEW McAllen Convention CenterCome to the Valley for some hospitality like you have never seen and with a wonderful newconvention center. You will be disappointed if you miss this event!Fire and Emergency Services Personnel:• Pre-Conference Fire and EMS Training Seminars and Hands On Classes• Bi-Lingual Training Classes• Over 61,000 square feet of exhibits• All Hotels centrally located around the convention center• New Stores and Restaurants• Mexico just 15 minutes away• South Padre Island, Schlitterbaun, and the beach just an hour awayHomewood Suites – NEW!3801 Expressway 83$85/night956-630-0500Group Name: SFFMADrury Inn612 West Expressway 83Rate: $85.99 - $99.99956-687-5100Group Name: State Firemen’s & FireMarshals’ Assoc.Drury Suites228 W. Expressway 83Rate: $115 - $125956-682-3222Group Name: State Firemen’s & FireMarshals’ Assoc.NEW!RUN SMALL, SOUND BIG, ARRIVE SAFEWITH THE VOLUNTEER SIRENS FROM CARSON!The second leading cause of volunteer firefighter deaths is motor vehicle accidents en route to a call.That’s why Carson built a line of sirens specifically for volunteers to overcome the challenges they face whenresponding to emergencies. These rugged, powerful sirens clear traffic with the combination of traditionalsiren tones and a mechanical tone that simulates a fire truck sound.www.carsonsirens.com/volunteer888.577.6877SC-1022 HAND-HELDTEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas FirefightersSC-1002CONSOLESC-1012REMOTE• 100-Watt w/ Light Controls• Mechanical Tone• Programmable Tone Options• Hands-Free Horn Cycler• Output Indicator Light• 5 Year WarrantyFall 2008 | 47

Calendar of Events 2008-2009Additional Training and Contact Information may be found online at www.sffma.org under the Training TabSFFMA IntroducesUpdated License Plates11/1/08......................................................................................................... SFFMA Executive Board Meeting, Austin11/1-2/08...........................................................................................................NFA: Incident Safety Officer, Richland11/1-2/08 ....................................................................................... NFA: Incident Command for High Rise Operations11/3-7/08 ...................................................................................................... NFPA 1041: Instructor I, College Station11/4-5/08 ................................................................. NFA: Managing Company Tactical Operations: Simulations, Tyler11/7-8/08 .............................................................................................................................. NFA Leadership I, Wylie11/7-8/08 ..........................................................................................................NFA: NIMS ICS for the FS, Windcrest11/8-9/08 ...........................................NFA: Initial Response to Hazardous Materials Incidents : Basic Concepts, Merkel11/10-12/08 ...............................................................................NFA: Building Construction – Combustible, Van Zandt11/11-12/08 .................................................NFA: Courtroom Preparation and Testimony for the 1st Responder, Gilmer11/12-13/08 .................................NFA: Strategy & Tactics for Initial Company Operations Johnson Co. ESD 1, Johnson11/14-15/08 ........................................................................................... Emergency Vehicle Driver Training, Sunnyvale11/14-15/08 ............................................................................................ Emergency Vehicle Driver Training, Terlingua11/15-16/08 .............................................................. NFA: Managing Company Tactical Operations: Simulations, Buda11/17/08 ........................................................NFA: Managing Company Tactical Operations: Preparations, Stephenville11/17-18/08 ..................................................................................................NFA: Incident Safety Officer, San Antonio11/17-19/08 ....... NFA: Managing Company Tactical Operations: Simulations, Stephenville, Ronnie James 979-324-534111/19-20/08 ..................................................................................................NFA: Incident Safety Officer, San Antonio11/28-29/08 ....................................................................................................... NFA: Incident Safety Officer, Pearland12/1-2/08 .....................................................................................................NFA: Incident Safety Officer, San Antonio12/6/08 .............................................................................. NFA: Instructional Techniques for Company Officers, Alice12/6-7/08 .............................................................................................................NFA: Incident Safety Officer, Hardin12/12-13/08 ........................................................... NFA: Strategy & Tactics for Initial Company Operations, Windcrest12/13-14/08 ......................................................................................................... NFA: Incident Safety Officer, Bellaire12/13&12,21&22/08 ..............................................................................................NFPA 1041: Instructor I, Hopewell1/5-9/08 ...........................................................................................................................NFA: NIMS ICS 300, Jewett1/7-9/09 ....................................................... NFA: Community Risk Issues and Prevention Interventions, Missouri City1/12-15/09 .......................................................................................................NFA: Incident Safety Officer, Cleveland1/12-16/09 ................................................................................................... NFPA 1041: Instructor II, College Station1/16-17/09 ............................................................NFA: Strategy & Tactics for Initial Company Operations, Pleasanton1/23-24/09 .............................................................. NFA: Emergency Response to Terrorism: Basic Concepts, Leander1/26-29/09 .......................................................................................................................NFA: NIMS ICS 400, Jewett1/28-29/09 .......................................................................... NFA: Incident Command for Highrise Operations. Odessa1/31/09 ...............................................................................................SFFMA Planning Conference Meeting, McAllen2/9-11/09 ....................................................................................................................... NFA: NIMS ICS 300, Liberty2/11-12/09 ..................................................................................................................... NFA: NIMS ICS 400, Liberty2/20-21/09 .....NFA : Introduction to Wildland/Urban Interface Firefighting for the Structural Company Officer, Leander2/23-25/09 .............................................................................................................NFA: Leadership III, Mineral WellsSFFMA has been working withofficials from the Texas Department ofTransportation to update our CertifiedFirefighter license plate design witha more colorful SFFMA logo. Indoing this upgrade, SFFMA CertifiedFirefighters are now able to order theplate as a personalized plate with upto 6 characters. Personnel who havethe older style license plates are ableto update their plates and keep theircurrent license plate number. Orderforms and other information may befound by clicking the SFFMA licenseonline at www.sffma.orgTFAScholarshipApplication requests for theTFA Scholarship can besent starting November 1,2008 through January 31,2009. The scholarships willbe awarded to children offire fighters planning on orcontinuing to attend collegefor the 2009-2010 schoolyear. This year we will begiving out a total of $6250in scholarships. Rules canbe viewed at sffma.org.Requests need be mailed toSara Weiss, 1001 ClearspringDrive, Brenham, TX 7783348 | Fall 2008 TEXAS FIREMEN | The Magazine For Texas Firefighters

CAFtoH 2Owith just one nozzle.Here’s a switch.A nozzle that lets you go from CAF to H 20 with a click of the tip.Introducing the Flex Attack from Elkhart Brass. Our new CAF Nozzle quickly switches between wetfoam, dry foam and water only without shutting down. Now there’s no need to compromise when firefighting. Click up for a huge unobstructed waterway to produce shaving cream dry foam. Click down fora hard hitting 15 /16" smooth bore. The Flex Attack is durable, dependable and best of all simple to use.Exactly what you’d expect from Elkhart Brass.Elkhart Brass and Casco Industries, Inc. are partnered to bring you the best in firefighting equipment andtechnology. With the latest advancements from Elkhart Brass, and the local dependable service from ourdealer, getting the firefighting solutions you need has never been easier. For more information, contactAuthorized Dealer Casco Industries, Inc. at 972-522-0800, or toll-free at 1-888-634-3473.©2008 Elkhart Brass

Always ready.You never know when the call will come in - you just know that you needto be ready when it does. As the largest provider of insurance to over15,000 emergency service organizations throughout the United Statesand Canada, we look at it the same way. We’re ready to help when theneed arises.• Insurance• BenefitsEducation and TrainingInsuringVFIS OF TEXAS3420 Executive Center Dr., Ste. 301Austin, TX 78731-1626Phone: (800) 252-9435 • www.vfistx.comAmerica’s Heroes