Tag Archive for: #hendersonfiredepartment

TownTalk: Fire Department Awards And Dinner

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The City of Henderson’s fire department took some time recently to gather for dinner and fellowship as they reflected on events of the past year, honored current firefighters and remembered the late fire chief Steve Cordell.

Chief Tim Twisdale, a guest on Wednesday’s TownTalk, said the Feb. 22 event was special in many ways, not the least of which was beginning the evening with a moment of silence to remember Cordell, who died in January 2023.

Oftentimes, the public sees firefighters in bulky turnout gear in the line of duty or in more casual clothing around the fire house making sure all the vehicles are in tip-top shape. But Twisdale said this occasion was reason to pull out the Class A uniforms and really show off – on this evening, firefighters learned who was named 2023 Firefighter of the Year and who would be the recipient of the Chief’s Award.

“This is the 47th year that our department has been having a gathering to honor our members and the accomplishments they’ve had throughout the year,” Twisdale noted.

Jeffrey Payne Watson was named Firefighter of the Year and Devin Hall received the Chief’s Award. Twisdale said both men are real assets to the department.

Watson came on board in 2021 – in fact, Twisdale was on the interview board when he was hired and then worked with him on the same shift. He saw Watson every day there in the beginning, and Twisdale said he quickly saw Watson as a natural leader. “He’s one of those go-to persons,” Twisdale said, someone who makes sure that everyone comes out of a situation with a better grasp and understanding than they’d had before.

Deputy State Fire Marshal Tony Bailey was the guest speaker for the event, and Twisdale said he appreciated Bailey’s continuing support  over the years as the fire department has been able to attain – and maintain – a coveted ISO rating of 2.

Chief’s Award recipient Hall commutes three days a week to his job at the Henderson Fire Department from his home in South Hill, VA.

When considering nominees for the Chief’s Award, Twisdale said he’s looking “for someone who really comes into the doors every day as a positive example” for others, making contributions not only to the community but to the brotherhood of firefighters.

“He is a constant source of information,” Twisdale said of Hall. “He shares his knowledge an skills.”

Twisdale noted several recent promotions within the department, including Capt. Capt. Justin Crowder and Capt. Justin Simmons, who is in charge of Engine 1. Simmons’s primary duties are looking after a three-member crew of that truck, the chief said.

As new battalion chiefs, Rick Puryear and Kyle Holtzman supervise the shifts of firefighters who protect the city 24 hours a day.

Hall and fellow firefighter Chase Carter have risen to the rank of engineer. Both men are a big part of the department’s ladder company, Twisdale said. The fire department is looking at ways to replace the aging truck, which came into service in 2005. Back then, it cost $800,000.

Like everything else, he said, inflation has driven up prices on fire trucks, too.

“If we sign a contract today, it’d be $2.1 million,” he said.

Check out the year-in-review video that Engineer Carter created for the awards banquet. You can find it on the fire department’s Facebook page. Chief Cordell figures prominently in the video, and his memory will live on, Twisdale said.

“We try to honor his memory by trying to move forward each day,” he said.

 

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TownTalk: Fire Safety Tips For Your Home

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Batalion Chief Lee Edmonds with the Henderson Fire Department reminds residents of several safety measures to preserve property and protect lives as December ushers in colder weather.

Anyone who uses a portable space heater as a supplemental heat source should make sure that it is positioned at least 3 feet from things like furniture and curtains – anything that could catch fire, Edmonds said on Monday’s TownTalk.

And, he said, any electric heater should be plugged directly into a wall outlet – please don’t use a drop cord.

“Power strips are a whole lot better to use – if you have to,” Edmonds said, adding that drop cords are for temporary use and not for a permanent use for any appliance, lamp, television or other items in the home.

If your home has a working fireplace, it’s a good idea to clean the chimney a couple of times a year and inspect it to make sure it’s structurally sound.

Place a fire screen in front of the fireplace to reduce the likelihood that ashes will pop. Even if you’re using decorative or gas logs, it’s a good idea to place a screen in front to protect children and pets from getting too close to the heat source.

The fire department is just a phone call away if you need to have your smoke detector or carbon monoxide monitor checked. Edmonds said the department is installing smoke detectors that have a 10-year life span. There are no batteries to replace – when it chirps, simply dispose of it and replace the whole unit, he said.

Contact the fire department to make an appointment at 252.430.1877 and leave a voicemail if necessary.

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MPH Cancer Center Angel Fund Gets $19K Boost From Henderson Firefighters

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Flanked by a dozen or so fire department colleagues, Henderson Battalion Chief Lee Edmonds presented a check for more than $19,000 to members of the Maria Parham Health Oncology Department on Thursday afternoon.

The money – $19,070.06 to be exact – will be deposited into the cancer center’s Angel Fund, which helps cancer patients in a variety of ways – from helping defray transportation costs to buying medicine and equipment. Hope Breedlove, a social worker at Maria Parham, said the gift for the Angel Fund comes from angels in the community, courtesy of the fire department’s annual “fill the boot” campaign.

“You’re the angels behind the Angel Fund,” Breedlove told the firefighters upon accepting the donation.

Breedlove said 100 percent of the money goes to meet the very special needs of the patients that come to Maria Parham for treatment.

She said the’s crunched the numbers and roughly two patients each day get help from the Angel Fund. “That’d be two treatments that they wouldn’t get,” were it not for the money made available through the firefighters’ fundraising.

The fundraiser had humble beginnings eight years ago with a t-shirt sale, but for the past five years, firefighters have positioned themselves empty boots in hand, in front of the fire station on Dabney Drive, asking for donations.

Edmonds and colleagues handed over the fruits of their labor Thursday afternoon to hospital staff outside the entrance to the Cancer Center, Big Engine 1 providing the backdrop for the presentation.

“This has been a hard year for us,” Edmonds told those assembled to witness the presentation. Fire Chief Steve Cordell lost a valiant battle with cancer in January.

Tim Twisdale was selected to succeed Cordell and he was on hand Thursday as well. “Thank you,” he told the hospital staff, many of whom were in their work scrubs, “for what you’re doing…for all who may not have the necessary funds” to get to and from appointments and treatments.

City Manager Terrell Blackmon echoed those sentiments, adding that city leaders appreciate what the hospital does for the community.

Blackmon said his father died of cancer, and he knows firsthand the impact that cancer has on its victims and their loved ones.

Chamber “Shop With A Cop” Fundraiser Nets $15,000

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The Shop With A Cop fundraiser sponsored by the Henderson-Vance Chamber of Commerce was a huge success, and Chamber President Sandra Wilkerson said law enforcement officers and first responders were going to have about $15,000 to spend on their upcoming shopping spree with area youngsters.

A celebratory reception held last week for all the sponsors went great, Wilkerson said Monday. About 100 people attended the event, which included a 50/50 raffle. Between the proceeds of the raffle and a couple of last-minute sponsors, Wilkerson said the fundraiser exceeded her initial expectations of $11,000.

According to Wilkerson, Barrow commented that it’s the most money he’s heard any program in the area getting for a Christmas shopping program.

The shopping spree will begin at 8:30 a.m. on Dec. 19 at the Walmart in Henderson.

Battalion Chief Doug Owen Retires From Henderson Fire Department With 30+ Years Of Service

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It’s been a couple of hours now, probably not long enough for it to really sink in, but as of 3 p.m. today, Battalion Chief Doug Owen is officially retired. Central Fire Station on Dabney Drive was filled with a hundred or more family, colleagues and government officials Tuesday afternoon to wish Owen well as he begins a new chapter of his life.

“I’ve had the best years of my life right here,” Owen said during the ceremony. “I’ve really enjoyed my career.”

Amy Colbert and Fire Chief Tim Twisdale presented Owen with a fireman’s axe to say thank you for the 30-plus years Owen devoted to the fire service.

“Chief Owen has been an asset to our department for more than 20 years,” Twisdale told WIZS News after the ceremony, adding that he was always an effective leader and always brought a good work ethic to the job.

“He expects a lot out of his crew and encourages all of us to do our best” when headed out on calls.

For these reasons, and more, Owen has earned the respect of his peers within the local fire department and across other jurisdictions, Twisdale said.

Owen may be retiring from his full-time fire job, but he told WIZS News that he’s planning to stay part-time. “This is the best career anybody could have,” he reiterated.

“If you’re a fireman, you know that bond,” Owen said. “The brotherhood in the fire service is unreal – unbelievable,” he said. “It becomes a bond you can’t break.”

‘National Night Out’ Takes Place Oct. 3 In Downtown Henderson

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Downtown Henderson is the place to be on Tuesday, Oct. 3 as area law enforcement agencies and other community organizations take part in National Night Out.

The community is invited to come to Breckenridge Street for the annual event, held this year from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

There will be presentations and displays by the Henderson Police Department, Vance County Sheriff’s Office, Crime Stoppers, Henderson and Vance County Fire and EMS, Vance County Schools and other agencies, all promoting safety and preventing crime in the community.

Admission is free, and there will be free giveaways, including food, drinks, T-shirts (while supplies last) and more.

Bring the family for an evening of fun and information!

In case of inclement weather, the rain date is Oct. 17.

TownTalk: Twisdale Takes Over As Fire Chief

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Henderson Fire Chief Tim Twisdale said he learned at an early age the importance of service to others and being responsible for nurturing growth.

Those childhood lessons are paying dividends as Twisdale takes the helm as the city’s new chief.

As a youngster, growing up on the family farm, he was exposed to things that have helped him through the years – “Be responsible for things. Plant a seed and see where it goes,” he said.

Twisdale was a guest on Tuesday’s TownTalk and shared his story that started on the family farm in the Granville County community of Bullock.

He’s had mentors within the fire service, but it was his grandfather – a volunteer at the Bullock station – who started it all.

“I looked up to him,” Twisdale said, adding that his grandfather showed him the importance of “being part of the community and giving back. He enjoyed doing so.”

So Twisdale decided to follow in his granddad’s footsteps and he joined the ranks of volunteers at Bullock.

And he ran across an instructor named Steve Cordell who shared with him about being a career firefighter. As a 20-something, Twisdale acknowledged that it sure sounded more exciting than sitting behind a desk all day.

Since then, there have been many classes and many mentors who have helped Twisdale on this career path.

It will be his turn now to help other firefighters as they pursue their goals and dreams.

Twisdale said he hoped to name a deputy chief soon. “We’ve opened it up to internal applicants,” and that continues for another week. The department’s career ladder structure helps firefighters determine next steps and pathways for success.

“I anticipate having a good pool of applicants coming through,” he said. There will be an interview team assembled to ensure transparency in the selection process, although Twisdale will make the final decision.

Chief Cordell and retired Chief Danny Wilkerson were instrumental in instilling pride into the department, and Twisdale said he intends to keep it going for the future.

“I want to keep the pride and dedication and professionalism that our department has, and expand and grow as the city grows,” he said.

The department enjoys an ISO rating of 2, and is as close to a 1 rating as is possible. What stands in the way, Twisdale said, are two areas that the department and the city are aware of and are working on – increased staffing and a new fire station.

As battalion chief, Twisdale had to make sure fire calls were answered efficiently and effectively. In his new role as chief, he is responsible for more of the administration of the fire department. But efficiency and effectiveness remain top of mind, he said, and he plans to lead by example.

“I consider myself a servant leader. We all are here for the common good and to support one another…we want to look after our folks, our citizens – every time we go out the door.”

 

 

Curtis Tyndall HFD Chief Retirement

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Friends, family, co-workers and community leaders gathered at Central Fire Station Tuesday afternoon to honor and celebrate Interim Fire Chief Curtis Tyndall, who is retiring at the end of June.

Tyndall, who was serving as deputy chief, stepped in as interim chief after Chief Steve Cordell died in January. In the past year and a half, he’s carried out the duties of both positions, but he said it’s been an honor to help lead the department.

“This department has some great leaders in it,” Tyndall said during the official part of the floating reception, which was held from 12 noon to 2 p.m. “Put credit where credit goes,” he told those assembled to wish him well in his upcoming retirement.

He said they all work very hard not to disappoint – themselves, the chief, the city and the citizens they serve. “They’re the ones that made it happen. We’re a level 2 fire department because of them – I’m just a part of that team.”

Colleagues from departments across the county shared well-wishes to their friend and fellow firefighter.

Battalion Chief Lee Edmonds said Tyndall played an invaluable role in his time as interim. “He helped bridge a gap to give the city and the department time to heal,” Edmonds said.

City Manager Terrell Blackmon called Tyndall an asset not only to the fire department, but to the whole community, adding that his retirement will leave a void in the station.

L-R: City Manager Terrell Blackmon, Acting Fire Chief Curtis Tyndall

But Blackmon brought encouraging news to the fire department staff, as well, when he said a new chief could be named next week.

Retired Fire Chief Danny Wilkerson said he didn’t think twice when he had the chance to bring before Tyndall back to the fire service after Tyndall – who had retired once before – had spent years working at Vance-Granville Community College as a fire and EMS instructor.

“He’s spent over half his life serving others,” Wilkerson told WIZS News before the formal ceremony began Tuesday. There will be mixed emotions, he predicted, but he said Tyndall should also experience a feeling of accomplishment. “I’m very proud of Curtis,” he said.

Administrative Assistant Amy Colbert, whose office is beside Tyndall’s, said working alongside him has been a great experience.

“You did an excellent job when this department needed you,” Colbert said. “I want you to enjoy your retirement – and come by and visit us.”

Henderson Mayor Eddie Ellington said he’s known Tyndall for many years, and is grateful for his professionalism and dedication. “It means the world to me, and to the city,” Ellington said.

The life of a firefighter isn’t easy, Tyndall told those gathered. Between scheduled shifts and second jobs, time with family often is sacrificed. He offered gratitude to all firefighters’ families – including his own – for their patience and support.

Battalion Chief Doug Owen said he met Tyndall back in 1990 when he joined the department. The last year and a half have been difficult for everyone in the wake of Cordell’s death and said he wishes the interim chief nothing but rest and relaxation in his retirement after more than 40 years of service.

“He won’t be here any more, but this station is always his home,” Owen said.

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The Local Skinny! Fire Department Awards Ceremony

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The Henderson Fire Department recognized several of its own during a recent awards and commendation ceremony at Clearview Church.

Interim Fire Chief Curtis Tyndall said Justin Crowder, an engineer with the fire department received the firefighter of the year award and fellow engineer Justin Simmons received the Chief’s award.

Tyndall spoke with John C. Rose Wednesday, and his interview aired on Thursday’s segment of The Local Skinny!

The banquet was held on Feb. 16, and Tyndall said all the award or commendation recipients are the direct result of the leadership of this department under Chief Steve Cordell. Cordell died last month after a battle with cancer.

“He made sure that everybody trained regularly,” Tyndall said of Cordell’s leadership style. “Safety was always at the top of his mind.”

Both Crowder and Simmons have accepted leadership roles within the department; Crowder fills in for the company officer as needed and Simmons participates in the department’s honor guard.

“He goes quietly about his business doing the job,” Tyndall said of Simmons.

Firefighters are constantly training and practicing the techniques that their job requires, and whether they’re getting time behind the wheel of a ladder truck or pulling hose to practice pumping operations, Tyndall said the firefighters are up to the task.

They must know their roles well in advance of arriving on the scene of an accident, fire or other emergency.

“Chain of command in the fire service is extremely important,” Tyndall noted. The battalion chief functions as the incident commander on a scene, and he’s got three company officers that report to him – two engines and a ladder truck. Each person must know his or her role to effectively work the scene.

Fire trucks are dispatched to emergencies that don’t always involve a fire, but firefighters often find themselves as first responders. Several newer firefighters were recognized for being good first responders and EMT personnel: Grayson Talbot, Jack Wilkinson and William Breedlove.

Tyndall said numerous lifesaving awards were given out as well to firefighters who provided a serious intervention to a victim to preserve life and health.

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Cordell Motorcade To Pass By Fire Departments, City Hall Friday

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The funeral service for Henderson Fire Chief Steve Cordell will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 3.

Beginning at 12 noon, however, a motorcade will accompany Fire Engine 5, which will transport Cordell’s coffin from Sossamon Funeral Home to South Henderson Pentecostal Holiness Church.

According to Downtown Development Director Tracy Madigan, the motorcade route will pass by both city fire stations as it makes its way from the funeral home to the church.

Upon departure from the funeral home, located on Oxford Road, the motorcade will drive past E.M. Rollins School, where Madigan said schoolchildren are expected to line the street to honor the chief as the motorcade passes by. From there, it will continue past Station 1 on Dabney Drive before turning onto Garnett Street, turning onto Rose Avenue to pass by City Hall and then back up Andrews Avenue to make its final turn onto Americal Road and arrive at the church.

Individuals are invited to gather in the vicinity of Garnett Street and Rose Avenue beginning about noon to pay their respects to the chief, who died Sunday after a battle with cancer.

The motorcade will consist of numerous public safety safety agencies, including fire personnel and motorcycle units of the State Highway Patrol.

WIZS will broadcast live the funeral service from the church at 2 p.m. and will broadcast special music and programming beginning and 1 p.m. as well as following the SHPHC service.