the firehouse sceneIs a monthly publication of the

Harlem-Roscoe Fire Protection District

Station Gossip“Thanks to everyone for the congratulations from the Appreciation Dinner. It was truly an honor and a surprise for the Firefi ghter Choice for Good Service Award. With the promotion to Deputy Chief, I truly appreciate all the support that everyone has shown while I get use to working into my new position. Again, Thank You all so much” DC John BergeronFound out why Ramona loves to cut cars. Its all in the action!Did everyone remember to change the batteries and check their smoke detectors and CO detectors when you set your clocks forward? Shoot, did you remember to set your clocks forward?Some observations at the recent Appreciation Dinner: Did anyone notice how well the new offi cers were color coordinated with their wives? Colleen was seen running around giving everyone kisses (chocolate ones). Seems Tom Lake really liked those kisses! Everyone wanted to be the one with the halo! The slide show was a hit, especially Mark Soppe’s revolving heart. And how about the irony of letting the ice cream cake thaw to be able to cut it. And Chief Shoevlin got a special presentation from Lt. Ramona Baldoni-Lake. (pictured below)

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Pizza anyone?

PostageHarlem-Roscoe FirePO Box 450Roscoe, IL 61073

The Firehouse Scene - Page 12

March 2009 Fire Chief Don Shoevlin Editor Sheryl Drost

www.harlemroscoefi re.com

New Firefi ghtersSee pages 8-11

Photo by Sheryl Drost

Standing l-r Steve Shoevlin, Adam Arnould, James Martin, Josh Hoffl and, & Joe Ortiz. Kneeling l-r Nick Mladenoff, Abbie Hill, Eric Wainright, John Barth, & Brock Combs.

Harlem-Roscoe Firefi ghters AssociationSpring Dinner Fundraiser

April 04, 2009 5-8PM @ Fire Station #1 10544 Main St. in RoscoeTickets – Adults $8.00, Children 5-12 $4.00 Children under 5 FreeMenu – Roast Beef, Ham, Mashed Potatoes, Cole Slaw,Vegetables, Dessert, Coffee, & Milk.

Carry outs and Deliveries – Call 623-7867After 3pm the day of the dinner

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Training Certifi cates Awarded

Left, Patrick Condon, Tom Person, and Scott Gredenius received their FFII Certifi cates. Right, Ramona Baldoni-Lake received her FFIII Certifi cate.

Left, Radi Huggard, Joe Koeninger, Shannon Burbach, and Tom Lake received their Pump Ops Certifi cates. Right, Tom Lake receives his Trench Rescue Ops and Trench Rescue Awareness Certifi cates.

Zak Prielipp, Brandon Tietz, Captain Mike Drost, Shannon Burbach, and Neil Roe received their Ice Rescue Technician Certifi cates.

Left, Christi Wilson and Paul Stanphill receive their Ice Rescue-Train the Trainer Certifi cates. Right, Lt. Jerry McCormick receives his Firefi ghter III, Fire Offi cer I, Instructor II, and Hazardous Material Ops.

Scott Jensen, Mark Schaffman, Jim Johnson, Christian Bush, Tom Person, (Chief Shoevlin) Bryson Knox, Greg Wernick, and Ken Boris received their Nims 100 Certifi cates.

From the Chief’s DeskBy Fire Chief Don Shoevlin

On Sunday, March 1, our 2009 recruit class graduated. We have a group of 10 new probationary fi refi ghters. They all have made a commitment to continue the tradition of the Harlem Roscoe Fire Protection District. As I stated at their graduation, we welcome all of them; they are joining an elite group of very dedicated individuals. We all look forward to their contribution to the district. All of them will

continue with their education to complete the State Fire Marshal Firefi ghter II curriculum. I thank all of the instructors for their time to teach these individuals.

On March 8 we spring forward with our clocks, so the season should be changing (I hope). Did you remember to change your batteries in your smoke and CO detectors? With the season change comes the season of road construction. I am aware that I-90 has begun to change lane confi gurations for the continuation of their project.

On March 14 and 15 we will be participating in the RoRo Expo held at Hononegah High School. This is the fi rst time we have participated in this. We look forward to meeting all who attend. Please stop by our information booth to see us.

We will be holding our Annual Spring Dinner on April 4 this year. Watch your mail for further information. Dinner will be served from 5:00 – 8:00 with take out and local delivery available as well. I look forward to seeing everyone.

Thank you to the trustees for another great appreciation dinner. It was a well attended and everyone appeared to have a great time. Colleen did a wonderful job coordinating everything.

Please check out our website www.harlemroscoefi re.com to keep up with the progress of the department and individuals. As always don’t hesitate to contact me or stop by if I can be of any assistance.

Car FireStory & photos by Sheryl Drost

Roscoe police had emptied their fi re extinguishers on a burning car when fi refi ghters arrived on Main Street on February 28. They had the fi re contained to the engine compartment. Firefi ghters quickly had the hood open and the fi re extinguished.

Captain Mike Drost watches as Firefi ghter Mike Morrison sprays water on the fi re as Joe Koeninger pries the hood up.

Mike Morrison (on nozzle) and Joe Koeninger fi nish extinguishing the fi re.

Firefi ghter Bob Stark was the engineer of the attack truck.

The Firehouse Scene - Page 2 The Firehouse Scene - Page 11 www.harlemroscoefi re.comwww.harlemroscoefi re.com

Jay Alms ‘50th’March 22nd

Southern Caribbean Cruise FundraiserBy Assistant Chief Ken O’Dell

Here we are, back in the cold, after a week of 80-90 degree weather. Our Southern Caribbean Cruise was Great!

Our fi rst port was St. Thomas and everyone went shopping and spent money. Our second port was Dominica. There we took a swim in the Emerald Pool. It was supposed to make you look and feel ten years younger. Ron Seeley and Don Ball kept checking me out each day after I went in the pool, and they decided it did not help me! When we docked at St. Kitts, about twelve of us took a scenic rail tour. I had plenty of Rum on the trip and even found some goats for Morgan.

I think everyone put on a few pounds. Donnie had his hot dogs everyday. Then Ron Seeley was off to the buffet line every two hours. Then we would all hit the ice cream four, maybe fi ve times a day.

Assistant Chief Ken O’Dell and his wife Paula spent time in the healing waters of the Emerald Pool.

Assistant Chief Ken O’Dell dances with the locals.

The Firehouse Scene - Page 10 The Firehouse Scene - Page 3 www.harlemroscoefi re.comwww.harlemroscoefi re.com

Adam ArnouldAdam Arnould is single and works at Forte Automation Systems Inc. He also just completed the Fire Science Program through Rock Valley College.

Adam previously served on Northwest Fire for two years. He also has a relative, Joel Bradford, that is on Rockford Fire.

Adam enjoys hunting, fi shing, and working out. He will be running out of Station #2.

John Barth

John Barth, (JB) is single and works at the Roscoe YMCA as a building supervisor. He also attends Rock Valley College studying Fire Science.

John enjoys golfi ng, weight lifting, and playing basketball. He will be running out of Station #3.

Kevin Brock Combs

Kevin Combs goes by his middle name Brock and is single and works at Fed EX Freight as a dock worker.

Kevin enjoys playing football and basketball. He will be running out of Station #1.

Abbigail Hill

Abbie Hill is single and works at Hamilton Sundstrand. She has a Bachelor of Business Admin from Northern IL University.

Abbie enjoys playing volleyball, watching basketball, and camping and hiking. She will be running out of Station #3.

Josh Hoffl and

Josh Hoffl and is single and works at UPS. He is also taking classes at Rock Valley College.

He enjoys playing football, swimming, and watching baseball and college basketball. He will be running out of Station #1.

James Martin

James Martin has been married to wife Elizabeth for four years. They have one child, 3-year-old Zorah. He works as a store manager for Dollar General.

James enjoys all sports. He will be running out of Station #1.

Nicholas Mladenoff

Nicholas (Nick) Mladenoff is single and is studying Gen. Ed. and Fire Science at Rock Valley College.

He enjoys playing golf and is on a SPPL paintball team called The Spirtus Raptors. He will be running out of Station #2.

Joe Ortiz II

Joe Ortiz II is single and father to Deven Ortiz - age 5, Travis Cline - age 10, and Logan - Cline- age 6. He is a carpet technician for Stanley Steemer.

Joe enjoys doing a little reading and hanging out with his family and friends. He will be running out of Station #1.

Steve ShoevlinSteve Shoevlin is single and is currently studying mathematics at Illinois State University. He will graduate in May with with his Bachelors Degree. Steve is son to our own Chief Don Shoevlin.

Steve has been a Lifeguard since he was 15 and says he will do any sport if asked. He enjoys being competitive. He will be running out of Station #3.

Eric Wainright

Eric Wainright has been married to wife Donna for one year. He has one son Shawn and one step-daughter Kiersten. Eric is self-employed.

Eric previously served two years on Harlem-Roscoe. He enjoys playing hockey, building/repairing, and computers. He will be running out of Station #1.

Meet The New Firefi ghters. . . Fire Marshal Reminds Drivers of New Law to Protect Emergency First Responders“Shib’s Law” honors Sesser fi refi ghter killed in the line of duty

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois State Fire Marshal David B. Foreman is reminding drivers about a new law that protects fi refi ghters by giving them the authority to close lanes of traffi c while responding to an emergency situation. Senate Bill 2488 was inspired by the death of a Sesser Fire Protection District fi refi ghter named James “Shib” Miller who was hit and killed by a Greyhound bus in 2007 while fi ghting a truck fi re on Interstate 57 in Southern Illinois.

“Firefi ghters put their lives on the line day in and day out. Too often we forget that the safety of our communities depend on fi refi ghters and others who devote their lives to protecting us. This law will ensure they have the authority necessary to perform their jobs safely and effectively,” Foreman said.

Prior to the new law, which went into effect on January 1, 2009, only law enforcement offi cers or representatives of the Illinois Department of Transportation had the jurisdiction to close lanes of traffi c while responding to an emergency situation.

SB 2488, sponsored by Sen. Gary Forby (D-Benton) and Rep. John E. Bradley (D-Marion), also increases the penalty for reckless homicide when a driver does not follow “Scott’s Law,” which is named for a Chicago fi refi ghter killed in the line of duty. On the books since 2002, “Scott’s Law” requires drivers to change lanes when they approach an emergency vehicle with fl ashing lights on the shoulder or a construction or maintenance vehicle in a work zone. The penalty will increase to a class 2 felony, punishable by 3-14 years in prison and a $25,000 fi ne.

AccidentPhotos by Sheryl Drost

February 18, Two-vehicle accident at Belvidere Road & Swanson Road.

Dryer FirePhotos by Sheryl Drost

A Winnebago County Sheriff’s Offi cer had the resident and his dog out of the smoke-fi lled house on Rollingsford when fi re units arrived on March 3. The dog was safely in the squad car. Firefi ghters quickly found the fi re in the basement at the dryer. The fi re was extinguished and the dryer carried outside. A positive pressure fan was used to remove smoke from the building.

Firefi ghters Christian Bush grabs a fi re extinguisher as engineer John Donovan helps Bryson Knox and Christi Wilson pull hose line.

Firefi ghters Eric Wainright and Josh Hoffl and carry out the burned dryer.

Wires Down Photo by Sheryl Drost

Firefi ghter Tom Lake pulls off a downed cable wire off a bus on Harrison Street after it was determined safe.

EMS Corner

By Deputy Chief John Bergeron

Falls and FracturesA simple fall can change your life. Just ask any of the thousands of older men and women who

fall each year and break a bone. Getting older can bring lots of changes. Sight, hearing, muscle strength, coordination and refl exes aren’t what they once were. Balance can be affected by diabetes and heart disease, or by problems with your circulation. Some medicines can cause dizziness. Any of these things can make a fall more likely.

Then there’s osteoporosis -- a disease that makes bones thin and likely to break easily. Osteoporosis is a major reason for broken bones in women past menopause. It also affects older men. When your bones are fragile even a minor fall can cause one or more bones to break. Although people with osteoporosis must be very careful to avoid falls, all of us need to take extra care as we get older.

A broken bone may not sound so terrible. After all, it will heal, right? But as we get older a break can be the start of more serious problems. The good news is that there are simple things you can do to help prevent most falls.

Take the Right Steps

Falls and accidents seldom “just happen.” The more you take care of your overall health and well-being, the more likely you’ll be to lower your chances of falling. Here are a few hints:

Talk with your doctor and plan an exercise program that is right for you. Regular exercise helps keep you strong and improves muscle tone. It also helps keep your joints, tendons, and ligaments fl exible. Mild weight-bearing exercise -- such as walking, climbing stairs -- may even slow bone loss from osteoporosis. Have your vision and hearing tested often. Even small changes in sight and hearing can make you less stable. So, for example, if your doctor orders new eyeglasses, take time to get used to them, and always wear them when you should or, if you need a hearing aid, be sure it fi ts well. Find out about the possible side effects of medicines you take. Some medicines might affect your coordination or balance. If so, ask your doctor or pharmacist what you can do to lessen your chance of falling. Limit the amount of alcohol you drink. Even a small amount can affect your balance and refl exes. Always stand up slowly after eating, lying down, or resting. Getting up too quickly can cause your blood pressure to drop, which can make you feel faint. Don’t let your home get too cold or too hot...it can make you dizzy. In the summer -- if your home is not air-conditioned --

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keep cool with an electric fan, drink lots of liquids, and limit exercise. In the winter, keep the nighttime temperature at 65° or warmer. Use a cane, walking stick, or walker to help you feel steadier when you walk. This is very important when you’re walking in areas you don’t know well or in places where the walkways are uneven. And be very careful when walking on wet or icy surfaces. They can be very slippery! Try to have sand or salt spread on icy areas. Wear rubber-soled, low-heeled shoes that fully support your feet. Wearing only socks or shoes with smooth soles on stairs or waxed fl oors can be unsafe. Hold the handrails when you use the stairs. If you must carry something while you’re going up or down, hold it in one hand and use the handrail with the other. Don’t take chances. Stay away from a freshly washed fl oor. And don’t stand on a chair or table to reach something that’s

too high -- use a “reach stick” instead. Reach sticks are special grabbing tools that you can buy at many hardware or most medical supply stores. Find out about buying a home monitoring system service. Usually, you wear a button on a chain around your neck. If you fall or need emergency help, you just push the button to alert the service. Emergency staff is then sent to your home. You can fi nd local “medical alarm” services in your yellow pages.

You can help prevent falls by making changes to unsafe areas in your home.

In stairways, hallways, and pathways: Make sure there is good lighting with light switches

at the top and bottom of the stairs. Keep areas where you walk tidy. Check that all carpets are fi xed fi rmly to the fl oor so they won’t slip. Put no-slip strips on tile and wooden fl oors. You can buy these strips at the hardware store. Have handrails on both sides of all stairs -- from top to bottom -- and be sure they’re tightly fastened. In bathrooms and powder rooms: Mount grab bars near toilets and on both the inside and outside of your tub and shower. Place non-skid mats, strips, or carpet on all surfaces that may get wet. Keep night lights on. In your bedroom: Put night lights and light switches close to your bed. Keep your telephone near your bed. In other living areas: Keep electric cords and telephone wires near walls and away from walking paths. Tack down all carpets and area rugs fi rmly to the fl oor. Arrange your furniture (especially low coffee tables) and other objects so they are not in your way when you walk. Make sure your sofas and chairs are a good height for you, so that you can get into and out of them easily.

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The Firehouse Scene - Page 4 The Firehouse Scene -Page 9www.harlemroscoefi re.comwww.harlemroscoefi re.com

The Firehouse Scene -Page 8 The Firehouse Scene - Page 5www.harlemroscoefi re.comwww.harlemroscoefi re.com

BirthdaysMarch4th John Donovan6th Christi Wilson7th Bryson Knox16th Aaron Miller Adam Cox21st Mike Morrison22nd Jay Alms ‘50th’23rd Radi Huggard29th Sheryl Drost

April1st Jeff Ball10th Colleen Bloyer12th Ami Sommerfi eld17th K.D. Bodwell21st Jim Burdick23rd Andrew Yastrab24th Paul Stanphill ‘30th’ 29th Snoopy

April Breakfast ListAaron Miller, Joe Koeninger,

Greg Wernick, Tom Lake, Radi Huggard, Adam Cox,

& Bob Stark

Total Calls for 2009362

Volume 14, Issue 3The Firehouse Scene is a monthly newsletter produced by the Harlem-Roscoe F.P.D.

Editor-in-Chief - Chief Don ShoevlinEditor, Layout, Writer, Photo - Sheryl Drost

The Firehouse Scene is available at Station One - 10544 Main Street in Roscoe and on the department’s website after the second Sunday each month.

www.harlemroscoefi re.com

Email submissions to: Firefoto4@aol.com

New Baby! Congratulations to Adam Eich and his wife Anna on the birth of their fi rst child. Alexis June Eich was born on February 17 at 1726 hours. She measured in at 8lbs 1oz and was 18.5 long. Mom and baby are doing great, although mom could use a little more sleep. Congrats again Adam and Anna, she is just adorable!

A big thank you to the group of Harlem-Roscoe Fire’s Auxiliary members that prepared a tasty breakfast at the Association’s breakfast meeting.

HRFD Auxiliary Members Serves Breakfast

Training the Recruits. . .

Assitant Chief Ken O’Dell is awarded a special plaque for his 40 years of fi re service. L-r Trustee Jerry Ocker, Ken, Chief Don Shoevlin, Trustees Bart Munger and Jim Burdick.

Deputy Chief John Bergeron is awarded a special plaque for his 25 years of fi re service. L-r Chief Don Shoevlin, John, Trustees Jim Burdick, Jerry Ocker, and Bart Munger.

Cheif Don Shoevlin presented Mike Sherbon with his 20-year fi re service pin.

Fire Chief Don Shoevlin presents Chris Farr with the Rookie of the Year Award.

Chief Don Shoevlin and Assistant Chief Ken O’Dell present Captain John Bergeron with the department’s Firefi ghter’s Choice For Good Service Award from all the department’s personnel.

Trustees Bart Munger, Jim Burdick, and Jerry Ocker recognize Chief Shoevlin.

Chief Don Shoevlin, Trustees Jerry Ocker, Bart Munger, and Jim Burdick presented Deputy Chief Kirk Wilson with his helmet shield and thanked him for his 24 and a half years of service to the department.. Kirk has accepted the Fire Chief position at a neighboring department - Rockton Fire.

New parents Neil Roe and Chris Scott are blindfolded as Assistant Chief Ken O’Dell tells them the directions to the new parent sock sorting game.

The Firehouse Scene - Page 6 The Firehouse Scene - Page 7

Most Fire Runs 1st Place 2nd Place 3rd Place

Most Medical Runs 1st Place 2nd Place 3rd Place

Station One Randy Lovelace

Tom Lake

DC KirkWilson

Tom Lake

Capt. JohnBergeron

Mike Morrison

Station Two Mike Sherbon

Tim Schrader

DougWolfe

Mike Sherbon

Capt. JayAlms

MikePowell

Station ThreeCapt. TimBergeronBob Stark

BrandonTietz

Radi Huggard

Capt. TimBergeron

Jeff Morris

Joe Koeninger

Trustees Appreciation Dinner

Harlem-Roscoe Fire Trustees Jim Burdick, Jerry Ocker, and Bart Munger hosted the Annual Harlem-Roscoe Fire Trustee’s Appreciation Award Night on February 21.

Harlem-Roscoe Fire Captain John Bergeron was told, “You might as well

just stay standing” as he received his 25 year service pin, was promoted to Deputy Chief, and received the most votes for the department’s Firefi ghter’s Choice For Good Service Award from all the department’s personnel. Firefi ghter Chris Farr received the Rookie-of-the-Year Award.

Acting Captains Jay Alms and Tim Bergeron were sworn in as full Captains and Acting Lt. Ramona Baldoni-Lake was sworn in as full Lieutenant.

Another big year fi re service pin went to Assistant Chief Ken O’Dell with 40 years, Mike Sherbon also received his 20-fi re service pin and other Fire Service Award Pins were: 10-year to Amber Aaker, Lt. Mike Powell, Tracy Wilson, and Dona Zopp. 5-year to Shannon Burbach, Dave Doyle, Jim Johnson, Tom Lake, Jerry Lund, Mike Morrison, April Scott, Ron Swain, and Greg Zintak. 1-year to Mike Baldwin, Adam Cox, Randy Lovelace, Brian Mayer, Marice Radke, Eric Schweitzer, Brian Szilagyi, Brandon Tietz, and Lindsey Weirick.

Medical Service Pins were also awarded to: 5-year - Jeff Brandenburg, Chief Don Shoevlin, and Lt. Ramona Baldoni-Lake. 1-year - John Donovan, Radi Huggard, Joe Koeninger, Tom Lake, Gina McCauley, and Jordan Stark. And new paramedic pin to Mike Morrison and Mike Baldwin.

Chief Shoevlin thanks all three trustees and their wives.

John Bergeron’s wife Deann and Trustee Bart Munger look on as John is promoted to Deputy Chief by Trustee Jim Burdick.

Trustee Jim Burdick gives the offi cer oath to Acting Captains Jay Alms and Tim Bergeron making them full captains as their wives, Debbie Alms and Michelle Bergeron, and Trustee Bart Munger look on.

Acting Lt. Ramona Baldoni-Lake’s husband Tom and Trustee Bart Munger look on as Trustee Jim Burdick gives the offi cer oath to Ramona making her a full Lieutenant.

Assitant Chief Ken O’Dell is awarded a special plaque for his 40 years of fi re service. L-r Trustee Jerry Ocker, Ken, Chief Don Shoevlin, Trustees Bart Munger and Jim Burdick.

Deputy Chief John Bergeron is awarded a special plaque for his 25 years of fi re service. L-r Chief Don Shoevlin, John, Trustees Jim Burdick, Jerry Ocker, and Bart Munger.

Cheif Don Shoevlin presented Mike Sherbon with his 20-year fi re service pin.

Fire Chief Don Shoevlin presents Chris Farr with the Rookie of the Year Award.

Chief Don Shoevlin and Assistant Chief Ken O’Dell present Captain John Bergeron with the department’s Firefi ghter’s Choice For Good Service Award from all the department’s personnel.

Trustees Bart Munger, Jim Burdick, and Jerry Ocker recognize Chief Shoevlin.

Chief Don Shoevlin, Trustees Jerry Ocker, Bart Munger, and Jim Burdick presented Deputy Chief Kirk Wilson with his helmet shield and thanked him for his 24 and a half years of service to the department.. Kirk has accepted the Fire Chief position at a neighboring department - Rockton Fire.

New parents Neil Roe and Chris Scott are blindfolded as Assistant Chief Ken O’Dell tells them the directions to the new parent sock sorting game.

The Firehouse Scene - Page 6 The Firehouse Scene - Page 7

Most Fire Runs 1st Place 2nd Place 3rd Place

Most Medical Runs 1st Place 2nd Place 3rd Place

Station One Randy Lovelace

Tom Lake

DC KirkWilson

Tom Lake

Capt. JohnBergeron

Mike Morrison

Station Two Mike Sherbon

Tim Schrader

DougWolfe

Mike Sherbon

Capt. JayAlms

MikePowell

Station ThreeCapt. TimBergeronBob Stark

BrandonTietz

Radi Huggard

Capt. TimBergeron

Jeff Morris

Joe Koeninger

Trustees Appreciation Dinner

Harlem-Roscoe Fire Trustees Jim Burdick, Jerry Ocker, and Bart Munger hosted the Annual Harlem-Roscoe Fire Trustee’s Appreciation Award Night on February 21.

Harlem-Roscoe Fire Captain John Bergeron was told, “You might as well

just stay standing” as he received his 25 year service pin, was promoted to Deputy Chief, and received the most votes for the department’s Firefi ghter’s Choice For Good Service Award from all the department’s personnel. Firefi ghter Chris Farr received the Rookie-of-the-Year Award.

Acting Captains Jay Alms and Tim Bergeron were sworn in as full Captains and Acting Lt. Ramona Baldoni-Lake was sworn in as full Lieutenant.

Another big year fi re service pin went to Assistant Chief Ken O’Dell with 40 years, Mike Sherbon also received his 20-fi re service pin and other Fire Service Award Pins were: 10-year to Amber Aaker, Lt. Mike Powell, Tracy Wilson, and Dona Zopp. 5-year to Shannon Burbach, Dave Doyle, Jim Johnson, Tom Lake, Jerry Lund, Mike Morrison, April Scott, Ron Swain, and Greg Zintak. 1-year to Mike Baldwin, Adam Cox, Randy Lovelace, Brian Mayer, Marice Radke, Eric Schweitzer, Brian Szilagyi, Brandon Tietz, and Lindsey Weirick.

Medical Service Pins were also awarded to: 5-year - Jeff Brandenburg, Chief Don Shoevlin, and Lt. Ramona Baldoni-Lake. 1-year - John Donovan, Radi Huggard, Joe Koeninger, Tom Lake, Gina McCauley, and Jordan Stark. And new paramedic pin to Mike Morrison and Mike Baldwin.

Chief Shoevlin thanks all three trustees and their wives.

John Bergeron’s wife Deann and Trustee Bart Munger look on as John is promoted to Deputy Chief by Trustee Jim Burdick.

Trustee Jim Burdick gives the offi cer oath to Acting Captains Jay Alms and Tim Bergeron making them full captains as their wives, Debbie Alms and Michelle Bergeron, and Trustee Bart Munger look on.

Acting Lt. Ramona Baldoni-Lake’s husband Tom and Trustee Bart Munger look on as Trustee Jim Burdick gives the offi cer oath to Ramona making her a full Lieutenant.

The Firehouse Scene -Page 8 The Firehouse Scene - Page 5www.harlemroscoefi re.comwww.harlemroscoefi re.com

BirthdaysMarch4th John Donovan6th Christi Wilson7th Bryson Knox16th Aaron Miller Adam Cox21st Mike Morrison22nd Jay Alms ‘50th’23rd Radi Huggard29th Sheryl Drost

April1st Jeff Ball10th Colleen Bloyer12th Ami Sommerfi eld17th K.D. Bodwell21st Jim Burdick23rd Andrew Yastrab24th Paul Stanphill ‘30th’ 29th Snoopy

April Breakfast ListAaron Miller, Joe Koeninger,

Greg Wernick, Tom Lake, Radi Huggard, Adam Cox,

& Bob Stark

Total Calls for 2009362

Volume 14, Issue 3The Firehouse Scene is a monthly newsletter produced by the Harlem-Roscoe F.P.D.

Editor-in-Chief - Chief Don ShoevlinEditor, Layout, Writer, Photo - Sheryl Drost

The Firehouse Scene is available at Station One - 10544 Main Street in Roscoe and on the department’s website after the second Sunday each month.

www.harlemroscoefi re.com

Email submissions to: Firefoto4@aol.com

New Baby! Congratulations to Adam Eich and his wife Anna on the birth of their fi rst child. Alexis June Eich was born on February 17 at 1726 hours. She measured in at 8lbs 1oz and was 18.5 long. Mom and baby are doing great, although mom could use a little more sleep. Congrats again Adam and Anna, she is just adorable!

A big thank you to the group of Harlem-Roscoe Fire’s Auxiliary members that prepared a tasty breakfast at the Association’s breakfast meeting.

HRFD Auxiliary Members Serves Breakfast

Training the Recruits. . .

EMS Corner

By Deputy Chief John Bergeron

Falls and FracturesA simple fall can change your life. Just ask any of the thousands of older men and women who

fall each year and break a bone. Getting older can bring lots of changes. Sight, hearing, muscle strength, coordination and refl exes aren’t what they once were. Balance can be affected by diabetes and heart disease, or by problems with your circulation. Some medicines can cause dizziness. Any of these things can make a fall more likely.

Then there’s osteoporosis -- a disease that makes bones thin and likely to break easily. Osteoporosis is a major reason for broken bones in women past menopause. It also affects older men. When your bones are fragile even a minor fall can cause one or more bones to break. Although people with osteoporosis must be very careful to avoid falls, all of us need to take extra care as we get older.

A broken bone may not sound so terrible. After all, it will heal, right? But as we get older a break can be the start of more serious problems. The good news is that there are simple things you can do to help prevent most falls.

Take the Right Steps

Falls and accidents seldom “just happen.” The more you take care of your overall health and well-being, the more likely you’ll be to lower your chances of falling. Here are a few hints:

Talk with your doctor and plan an exercise program that is right for you. Regular exercise helps keep you strong and improves muscle tone. It also helps keep your joints, tendons, and ligaments fl exible. Mild weight-bearing exercise -- such as walking, climbing stairs -- may even slow bone loss from osteoporosis. Have your vision and hearing tested often. Even small changes in sight and hearing can make you less stable. So, for example, if your doctor orders new eyeglasses, take time to get used to them, and always wear them when you should or, if you need a hearing aid, be sure it fi ts well. Find out about the possible side effects of medicines you take. Some medicines might affect your coordination or balance. If so, ask your doctor or pharmacist what you can do to lessen your chance of falling. Limit the amount of alcohol you drink. Even a small amount can affect your balance and refl exes. Always stand up slowly after eating, lying down, or resting. Getting up too quickly can cause your blood pressure to drop, which can make you feel faint. Don’t let your home get too cold or too hot...it can make you dizzy. In the summer -- if your home is not air-conditioned --

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•

•

•

•

keep cool with an electric fan, drink lots of liquids, and limit exercise. In the winter, keep the nighttime temperature at 65° or warmer. Use a cane, walking stick, or walker to help you feel steadier when you walk. This is very important when you’re walking in areas you don’t know well or in places where the walkways are uneven. And be very careful when walking on wet or icy surfaces. They can be very slippery! Try to have sand or salt spread on icy areas. Wear rubber-soled, low-heeled shoes that fully support your feet. Wearing only socks or shoes with smooth soles on stairs or waxed fl oors can be unsafe. Hold the handrails when you use the stairs. If you must carry something while you’re going up or down, hold it in one hand and use the handrail with the other. Don’t take chances. Stay away from a freshly washed fl oor. And don’t stand on a chair or table to reach something that’s

too high -- use a “reach stick” instead. Reach sticks are special grabbing tools that you can buy at many hardware or most medical supply stores. Find out about buying a home monitoring system service. Usually, you wear a button on a chain around your neck. If you fall or need emergency help, you just push the button to alert the service. Emergency staff is then sent to your home. You can fi nd local “medical alarm” services in your yellow pages.

You can help prevent falls by making changes to unsafe areas in your home.

In stairways, hallways, and pathways: Make sure there is good lighting with light switches

at the top and bottom of the stairs. Keep areas where you walk tidy. Check that all carpets are fi xed fi rmly to the fl oor so they won’t slip. Put no-slip strips on tile and wooden fl oors. You can buy these strips at the hardware store. Have handrails on both sides of all stairs -- from top to bottom -- and be sure they’re tightly fastened. In bathrooms and powder rooms: Mount grab bars near toilets and on both the inside and outside of your tub and shower. Place non-skid mats, strips, or carpet on all surfaces that may get wet. Keep night lights on. In your bedroom: Put night lights and light switches close to your bed. Keep your telephone near your bed. In other living areas: Keep electric cords and telephone wires near walls and away from walking paths. Tack down all carpets and area rugs fi rmly to the fl oor. Arrange your furniture (especially low coffee tables) and other objects so they are not in your way when you walk. Make sure your sofas and chairs are a good height for you, so that you can get into and out of them easily.

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The Firehouse Scene - Page 4 The Firehouse Scene -Page 9www.harlemroscoefi re.comwww.harlemroscoefi re.com

The Firehouse Scene - Page 10 The Firehouse Scene - Page 3 www.harlemroscoefi re.comwww.harlemroscoefi re.com

Adam ArnouldAdam Arnould is single and works at Forte Automation Systems Inc. He also just completed the Fire Science Program through Rock Valley College.

Adam previously served on Northwest Fire for two years. He also has a relative, Joel Bradford, that is on Rockford Fire.

Adam enjoys hunting, fi shing, and working out. He will be running out of Station #2.

John Barth

John Barth, (JB) is single and works at the Roscoe YMCA as a building supervisor. He also attends Rock Valley College studying Fire Science.

John enjoys golfi ng, weight lifting, and playing basketball. He will be running out of Station #3.

Kevin Brock Combs

Kevin Combs goes by his middle name Brock and is single and works at Fed EX Freight as a dock worker.

Kevin enjoys playing football and basketball. He will be running out of Station #1.

Abbigail Hill

Abbie Hill is single and works at Hamilton Sundstrand. She has a Bachelor of Business Admin from Northern IL University.

Abbie enjoys playing volleyball, watching basketball, and camping and hiking. She will be running out of Station #3.

Josh Hoffl and

Josh Hoffl and is single and works at UPS. He is also taking classes at Rock Valley College.

He enjoys playing football, swimming, and watching baseball and college basketball. He will be running out of Station #1.

James Martin

James Martin has been married to wife Elizabeth for four years. They have one child, 3-year-old Zorah. He works as a store manager for Dollar General.

James enjoys all sports. He will be running out of Station #1.

Nicholas Mladenoff

Nicholas (Nick) Mladenoff is single and is studying Gen. Ed. and Fire Science at Rock Valley College.

He enjoys playing golf and is on a SPPL paintball team called The Spirtus Raptors. He will be running out of Station #2.

Joe Ortiz II

Joe Ortiz II is single and father to Deven Ortiz - age 5, Travis Cline - age 10, and Logan - Cline- age 6. He is a carpet technician for Stanley Steemer.

Joe enjoys doing a little reading and hanging out with his family and friends. He will be running out of Station #1.

Steve ShoevlinSteve Shoevlin is single and is currently studying mathematics at Illinois State University. He will graduate in May with with his Bachelors Degree. Steve is son to our own Chief Don Shoevlin.

Steve has been a Lifeguard since he was 15 and says he will do any sport if asked. He enjoys being competitive. He will be running out of Station #3.

Eric Wainright

Eric Wainright has been married to wife Donna for one year. He has one son Shawn and one step-daughter Kiersten. Eric is self-employed.

Eric previously served two years on Harlem-Roscoe. He enjoys playing hockey, building/repairing, and computers. He will be running out of Station #1.

Meet The New Firefi ghters. . . Fire Marshal Reminds Drivers of New Law to Protect Emergency First Responders“Shib’s Law” honors Sesser fi refi ghter killed in the line of duty

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois State Fire Marshal David B. Foreman is reminding drivers about a new law that protects fi refi ghters by giving them the authority to close lanes of traffi c while responding to an emergency situation. Senate Bill 2488 was inspired by the death of a Sesser Fire Protection District fi refi ghter named James “Shib” Miller who was hit and killed by a Greyhound bus in 2007 while fi ghting a truck fi re on Interstate 57 in Southern Illinois.

“Firefi ghters put their lives on the line day in and day out. Too often we forget that the safety of our communities depend on fi refi ghters and others who devote their lives to protecting us. This law will ensure they have the authority necessary to perform their jobs safely and effectively,” Foreman said.

Prior to the new law, which went into effect on January 1, 2009, only law enforcement offi cers or representatives of the Illinois Department of Transportation had the jurisdiction to close lanes of traffi c while responding to an emergency situation.

SB 2488, sponsored by Sen. Gary Forby (D-Benton) and Rep. John E. Bradley (D-Marion), also increases the penalty for reckless homicide when a driver does not follow “Scott’s Law,” which is named for a Chicago fi refi ghter killed in the line of duty. On the books since 2002, “Scott’s Law” requires drivers to change lanes when they approach an emergency vehicle with fl ashing lights on the shoulder or a construction or maintenance vehicle in a work zone. The penalty will increase to a class 2 felony, punishable by 3-14 years in prison and a $25,000 fi ne.

AccidentPhotos by Sheryl Drost

February 18, Two-vehicle accident at Belvidere Road & Swanson Road.

Dryer FirePhotos by Sheryl Drost

A Winnebago County Sheriff’s Offi cer had the resident and his dog out of the smoke-fi lled house on Rollingsford when fi re units arrived on March 3. The dog was safely in the squad car. Firefi ghters quickly found the fi re in the basement at the dryer. The fi re was extinguished and the dryer carried outside. A positive pressure fan was used to remove smoke from the building.

Firefi ghters Christian Bush grabs a fi re extinguisher as engineer John Donovan helps Bryson Knox and Christi Wilson pull hose line.

Firefi ghters Eric Wainright and Josh Hoffl and carry out the burned dryer.

Wires Down Photo by Sheryl Drost

Firefi ghter Tom Lake pulls off a downed cable wire off a bus on Harrison Street after it was determined safe.

Training Certifi cates Awarded

Left, Patrick Condon, Tom Person, and Scott Gredenius received their FFII Certifi cates. Right, Ramona Baldoni-Lake received her FFIII Certifi cate.

Left, Radi Huggard, Joe Koeninger, Shannon Burbach, and Tom Lake received their Pump Ops Certifi cates. Right, Tom Lake receives his Trench Rescue Ops and Trench Rescue Awareness Certifi cates.

Zak Prielipp, Brandon Tietz, Captain Mike Drost, Shannon Burbach, and Neil Roe received their Ice Rescue Technician Certifi cates.

Left, Christi Wilson and Paul Stanphill receive their Ice Rescue-Train the Trainer Certifi cates. Right, Lt. Jerry McCormick receives his Firefi ghter III, Fire Offi cer I, Instructor II, and Hazardous Material Ops.

Scott Jensen, Mark Schaffman, Jim Johnson, Christian Bush, Tom Person, (Chief Shoevlin) Bryson Knox, Greg Wernick, and Ken Boris received their Nims 100 Certifi cates.

From the Chief’s DeskBy Fire Chief Don Shoevlin

On Sunday, March 1, our 2009 recruit class graduated. We have a group of 10 new probationary fi refi ghters. They all have made a commitment to continue the tradition of the Harlem Roscoe Fire Protection District. As I stated at their graduation, we welcome all of them; they are joining an elite group of very dedicated individuals. We all look forward to their contribution to the district. All of them will

continue with their education to complete the State Fire Marshal Firefi ghter II curriculum. I thank all of the instructors for their time to teach these individuals.

On March 8 we spring forward with our clocks, so the season should be changing (I hope). Did you remember to change your batteries in your smoke and CO detectors? With the season change comes the season of road construction. I am aware that I-90 has begun to change lane confi gurations for the continuation of their project.

On March 14 and 15 we will be participating in the RoRo Expo held at Hononegah High School. This is the fi rst time we have participated in this. We look forward to meeting all who attend. Please stop by our information booth to see us.

We will be holding our Annual Spring Dinner on April 4 this year. Watch your mail for further information. Dinner will be served from 5:00 – 8:00 with take out and local delivery available as well. I look forward to seeing everyone.

Thank you to the trustees for another great appreciation dinner. It was a well attended and everyone appeared to have a great time. Colleen did a wonderful job coordinating everything.

Please check out our website www.harlemroscoefi re.com to keep up with the progress of the department and individuals. As always don’t hesitate to contact me or stop by if I can be of any assistance.

Car FireStory & photos by Sheryl Drost

Roscoe police had emptied their fi re extinguishers on a burning car when fi refi ghters arrived on Main Street on February 28. They had the fi re contained to the engine compartment. Firefi ghters quickly had the hood open and the fi re extinguished.

Captain Mike Drost watches as Firefi ghter Mike Morrison sprays water on the fi re as Joe Koeninger pries the hood up.

Mike Morrison (on nozzle) and Joe Koeninger fi nish extinguishing the fi re.

Firefi ghter Bob Stark was the engineer of the attack truck.

The Firehouse Scene - Page 2 The Firehouse Scene - Page 11 www.harlemroscoefi re.comwww.harlemroscoefi re.com

Jay Alms ‘50th’March 22nd

Southern Caribbean Cruise FundraiserBy Assistant Chief Ken O’Dell

Here we are, back in the cold, after a week of 80-90 degree weather. Our Southern Caribbean Cruise was Great!

Our fi rst port was St. Thomas and everyone went shopping and spent money. Our second port was Dominica. There we took a swim in the Emerald Pool. It was supposed to make you look and feel ten years younger. Ron Seeley and Don Ball kept checking me out each day after I went in the pool, and they decided it did not help me! When we docked at St. Kitts, about twelve of us took a scenic rail tour. I had plenty of Rum on the trip and even found some goats for Morgan.

I think everyone put on a few pounds. Donnie had his hot dogs everyday. Then Ron Seeley was off to the buffet line every two hours. Then we would all hit the ice cream four, maybe fi ve times a day.

Assistant Chief Ken O’Dell and his wife Paula spent time in the healing waters of the Emerald Pool.

Assistant Chief Ken O’Dell dances with the locals.

the firehouse sceneIs a monthly publication of the

Harlem-Roscoe Fire Protection District

Station Gossip“Thanks to everyone for the congratulations from the Appreciation Dinner. It was truly an honor and a surprise for the Firefi ghter Choice for Good Service Award. With the promotion to Deputy Chief, I truly appreciate all the support that everyone has shown while I get use to working into my new position. Again, Thank You all so much” DC John BergeronFound out why Ramona loves to cut cars. Its all in the action!Did everyone remember to change the batteries and check their smoke detectors and CO detectors when you set your clocks forward? Shoot, did you remember to set your clocks forward?Some observations at the recent Appreciation Dinner: Did anyone notice how well the new offi cers were color coordinated with their wives? Colleen was seen running around giving everyone kisses (chocolate ones). Seems Tom Lake really liked those kisses! Everyone wanted to be the one with the halo! The slide show was a hit, especially Mark Soppe’s revolving heart. And how about the irony of letting the ice cream cake thaw to be able to cut it. And Chief Shoevlin got a special presentation from Lt. Ramona Baldoni-Lake. (pictured below)

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Pizza anyone?

PostageHarlem-Roscoe FirePO Box 450Roscoe, IL 61073

The Firehouse Scene - Page 12

March 2009 Fire Chief Don Shoevlin Editor Sheryl Drost

www.harlemroscoefi re.com

New Firefi ghtersSee pages 8-11

Photo by Sheryl Drost

Standing l-r Steve Shoevlin, Adam Arnould, James Martin, Josh Hoffl and, & Joe Ortiz. Kneeling l-r Nick Mladenoff, Abbie Hill, Eric Wainright, John Barth, & Brock Combs.

Harlem-Roscoe Firefi ghters AssociationSpring Dinner Fundraiser

April 04, 2009 5-8PM @ Fire Station #1 10544 Main St. in RoscoeTickets – Adults $8.00, Children 5-12 $4.00 Children under 5 FreeMenu – Roast Beef, Ham, Mashed Potatoes, Cole Slaw,Vegetables, Dessert, Coffee, & Milk.

Carry outs and Deliveries – Call 623-7867After 3pm the day of the dinner

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