Watertown to host Fire School June 13-15
March is going to be here before I know it and I haven’t finished my article for this month. That means I have to get busy and quite messing around. As someone who has been retired for a little over six years, I don’t know why I don’t have a lot of free time. In talking to other retired people, it always seems you are busier now than before you retired. Of course, now you get side tracked with a thousand other things that just pop up all day.
State Fire School will be here in a flash. Time flies by so fast we all need to start thinking about what classes we might consider, who is planning on going, and getting those important motel rooms. The State Firefighters board met Feb. 17 & 18 to put the final parts together. I’m sure pre-registration will be opening about April 1, maybe sooner. So, watch our Facebook page, emails from the Association, and however you get your fire department news.
I know the classes are going to be great again this year. Watertown Lake Area Tech is a tremendous location and all the help we get from everyone is beyond words. Attendance has been increasing each year and we want to keep on that path, so talk to your fellow firefighters and make a point of taking in some of the greatest training and camaraderie there is. See you June 13-15 in Watertown.
As the Treasurer, I have sent out a second follow-up dues notification. If your department has not paid their dues, or you’re not sure ask the chief or someone and talk them into getting the dues paid. There are a number of benefits to being a 100% Member and one is reduced registration at fire school. I know that our Growth Zone membership software sends out an email to those departments also. I’m not wanting to bug you too much, but just saying….
In February I had the honor and pleasure of attending the Senate Legislature and see them honor LeRoy Koopman with a resolution for being named the National Volunteer Fire Council’s Lifetime Achievement award. Well deserved Chief Koopman and congratulations.
One last thing. At State Fire School in June there will be an election for Vice-president. Mr. Ron Hines, current Vice-president has decided to step down and have more time for so many other things in his life. So, if anyone would like to step up, feel free to contact any Board member. The only absolute requirement is your department must be a 100% Member.
With that I’ll close for this month. Stay safe, take care of your fellow firefighters.
Denny Gorton,
SDFA Past President