A Vision for the New Year
On Jan. 20, 2025, we celebrated the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday, commemorating 30 years as a National Day of Service. It’s a perfect moment for those of us in the volunteer community to reflect on his inspiring motto, “I Have a Dream.” As the new year quickly progresses and February approaches, we are filled with hope and ambition!
I have a dream that the NSVFA community continues to unite and strengthen our bonds. I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to all NSVFA members who gathered at the Elected Officials Breakfast in Lincoln on Jan. 21st. This gathering wasn’t just an event; it was a moment of connection, where we voiced the concerns of firefighters and EMS providers across Nebraska to our state legislators, and your presence made it profoundly impactful. A special acknowledgment goes to the NSVFA Auxiliary for hosting this essential gathering, your support fuels our mission.
On Jan. 25th, members of the NSVFA e-board, NSVFA Fire Chiefs Association, and NSVFA Legislative Committee gathered virtually to prepare for the upcoming Legislative Session. I have a dream that we will advocate unwaveringly for your needs, shaping our positions on key legislation that affects us all. One significant piece we are rallying behind is LB115, introduced by Senator Ballard on Jan. 10th, which proposes to increase the Nebraska State Tax credit from $250 to $1,000 for those who meet the 50-point LOS requirements for one year. The hearing for this bill is set for Jan. 24th at 1:30 PM, and while only a few will testify, I dream of a room filled with volunteer firefighters at the State Capitol, standing in solidarity for LB115.
I have a dream that you will recognize the extraordinary contributions of your department firefighters by nominating deserving individuals for the various awards and scholarships offered by the NSVFA and supported by Danko. These awards honor the spirit of volunteerism and will be presented during the opening ceremonies of the Nebraska State Fire School on May 16th at the Heartland Event Center in Grand Island. Learn more about the awards here: https://www.nsvfa.org/awards-scholarships
I cherish the moments spent at banquets and gatherings — the chance to reconnect with old friends, forge new relationships, and learn about your incredible departments. The warmth and hospitality of your teams exemplify the spirit of our “fire family,” and I am deeply grateful to each of you.
Here are some additional events to mark on your calendar that will inspire and empower us:
• Fire Chief’s Leadership Symposium: Saturday, March 15, 2025, at Fort Robinson in Crawford from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. This year’s speaker is Brian Daunt from the US Forest Service. Thanks to the Safer Grant, funding is available for lodging (for those traveling over 50 miles) and travel reimbursement. For details, please visit the registration page: https://nsvfa.
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• NSVFA Fire School Registration: Opens early March. Ensure you register early to secure your preferred classes. Stay informed here: https://www.nsvfa.org/nebraska-fire-school
• NSVFA Fire School: May 16-18, 2025.
As we navigate this journey together, remember that this is YOUR association. If you have any concerns, comments, or suggestions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me or any board member. We are here to serve you and champion what matters most to you.
Until we meet again, stay safe and healthy!
Brenda Jenny
NSVFA 1st Vice-President
Brenda Jenny,
1st Vice President