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New Board Members Welcomed at Annual Meeting
Morristown, TN 07/16/08 –
New board members for the American Red Cross Lakeway Area Chapter are from left, Amy Brown, Larry Blount, Kim Setser and Joan Weesner. Also pictured is Annette Smith, incoming board chair, and Pam Johns, outgoing board chair.
Outgoing Red Cross Chair Expresses Gratitude
BY GLENNA HOWINGTON Tribune Staff Writer
Morristown, TN 07/16/08
– Things got a little personal at the annual membership meeting of the American Red Cross Lakeway Area Chapter held Monday evening.
Outgoing board chair Pam Johns shared with those in attendance her story of suffering a heart attack in October 2007, and how the advanced cardiac training of her caregivers came into play.
“I am so glad that the men and women who treated me were trained by the Red Cross,” Johnson said. “You just never know — you may be affected, or someone you know may be affected by the Red Cross.”
Johns’ two-year tenure with the board provided her with renewed insight into the agency.
“I didn’t realize how we cared for and offered services to our soldiers. I didn’t realize how many programs we had for health and safety, and how they were run. I have learned so much.
“We’ve accomplished a great deal this year. I am so proud of our chapter and especially of our volunteers. I have really enjoyed these past two years, and have really been proud to be a part of this great organization.”
Dorothy Zimmerman, interim executive director, is also a member of the Disaster Action team and has worked on two national disasters during her 4-month tenure. She feels a strong concern for community education with regard to disaster preparedness. More than 60 fires occurred within the chapter’s two counties during the past year.
“We have way too many fires in this area. We need to make people understand that they need to protect themselves,” she said.
“Many people depend on the Red Cross because they don’t have insurance. On my first disaster, I asked a woman if she had renter’s insurance. She told me, ‘no, that’s too expensive. My cable bill is $69 a month.’
“I thought to myself, what happens if you spend $69 dollars on your cable bill and your television is toast? We need to educate young people that as they go out into the world and rent their first home, they need to buy that renter’s insurance.”
According to Zimmerman, the cost to the chapter for a single family fire averages $1,000.
“We can’t afford that,” Zimmerman said.
As the economy situation becomes more dire, she foresees even less being allocated.
Lisa Gibbs, service director, reported 100 percent of board giving during 2008. The chapter also completed two successful direct mailings, held a spring festival and sold cookbooks. The chapter participated in inkjet recycling, the Heroes program, the Read-A-Thon in Cocke County and planned giving.
According to Gibbs, the chapter experienced a 71 percent increase in the number of its core clients.
New clients for the Health and Safety programs include Ampad, Lisega, University of Tennessee Extension, Tabernacle Daycare, Pilot Truck Stop, East Tennessee Steel and Foust Metal Works.
New to 2008 were the online donations program and the Penny Drive, that was initiated in the school systems.
According to Susan Christophel, projects coordinator, the Penny Drive raised more than $1,600 for the chapter. Classrooms within each school competed to raise the most money. The prize was a pizza party, hosted by Christophel. Many students traded in their ice cream money, and teachers would often match amounts raised by their classroom. Christophel used the pizza parties as opportunities to discuss the mission of the Red Cross and found that the students had stories of their own to share.
“Kids know more than anyone about the importance of helping each other in the community,” Christophel said.
New board members were announced by Elizabeth Gibson, Governance chair. Amy Brown is a realtor with Coldwell Banker Realtor House and has a history of volunteer work within the community. She has participated in the American Red Cross Heroes campaign, serves on the board of the Ministerial Association Temporary Shelter and is involved with the 2008 United Way Campaign.
Kim Setser is employed with Cherokee Health Systems, and Gibson noted both her emergency nursing experience and her previous Red Cross emergency certification as a boon to the chapter.
Larry Blount is a professional artist who resides in Bybee and has been an active chapter volunteer for many years.
Joan Weesner, a long-time volunteer with the chapter, returned to serve on the board. She became involved with the American Red Cross in the 1950s and worked with the blood mobile that was run by the agency at that time.
Drew Ogle was presented with an award of appreciation for his contributions while he served as executive director of the chapter. Ogle resigned in April of this year to pursue other career opportunities, and left “big shoes to fill,” according to Gibson.
“He kept things organized and running smoothly,” she said.
Blount and his wife, Akira, were inducted into the Clara Barton Society for their contributions to the chapter.
Scrubby Bear Visits West Elementary
Morristown, TN 05/05/08 – The after school Scout Troop at West Elementary School in Morristown enjoyed a visit from Susan Christophel of the Red Cross Staff, the Emergency Response Vehicle and our very own Scrubby Bear! Scrubby showed the students how the ERV is equipped to help in times of fire and disaster.
Then Scrubby reminded them of the importance of good hand-washing to keep germs away so we don’t get sick. And before he left, he gave them each their Clean Hands Club membership card and taught them the Scrubby Bear motto: Don’t Get Sick! Wash up Quick!
Medic Blood drive on Friday, May 23
Morristown, TN 05/20/08 – The Lakeway
Area Red Cross will be hosting a Medic blood drive at the office
of the Red Cross at 1103 W. First North St., Morristown, from
9AM to 4PM. This is a Parrot-Head party for Medic –
donors receive a colorful parrot T-shirt. Come on down
and give the gift of life!
County-Wide Casual Day in Support of the Lakeway Area American Red
Cross!
Morristown, TN 03/12/08 – Friday, March 28th has been declared "County-Wide Casual Day in support
of the Lakeway Area American Red Cross!" The American Red Cross Heroes
Committee is challenging all residents and businesses across Hamblen
County to support this campaign by purchasing a "Heroes" T-Shirt in
support of the American Red Cross and show your support by wearing this
specially designed T-Shirt on Friday, March 28th!
Click Here for your t-shirt order form!
Our goal for this campaign is to raise $30,000 and we need to sell a lot
of T-Shirts to accomplish our goal. So, please accept this challenge
and remember all the money that is raised from the campaign will stay in
Hamblen County and be used locally! The "HEROES for the American Red
Cross" fundraising campaign is designed to raise awareness and
additional money to support programs and services. The money raised
during the campaign will ensure that the Lakeway Area Chapter will have
sufficient funds to respond to local disasters and provide programs and
training to meet the communities most urgent needs. "I am really
excited about chairing this year's campaign. Having an American Red
Cross Chapter that is prepared to meet the needs of our community is
extremely important", said Amy Brown, Heroes Campaign Chair.
How many times have you wished you could wear your blue jeans and a cool
T-Shirt to work? Well, now you can! Talk your boss, manager or owner
in to buying a T-Shirt for everyone in your workplace and show your
support!
The Lakeway American Red Cross Heroes Campaign is proudly sponsored by
the following Heroes:
Register for
Lifeguard Training
Morristown, TN 02/19/08 – The Lakeway Area Chapter of the American Red Cross is currently
registering students for lifeguard training. This multi-day class
teaches the skills needed to promote safety in a water based setting,
and include certification in CPR for the Professional Rescuer.
The American Red Cross is the leading lifeguard training organization in
the country, training approximately 190,000 lifeguards annually over the
last few years. The current American Red Cross Lifeguarding Program
continues a tradition for the highest standards in training and the most
current techniques and methods in lifeguarding, including intense
hands-on skill practice designed to strengthen decision-making and
response skills. Trainees will be equipped with the knowledge to guard
effectively in a variety of water environments.
"This is a class with high standards," said Lisa Gibbs, Services
Director of the chapter. "Red Cross lifeguards are known to be best in
the industry, and graduating students will have the knowledge and skills
to save a life. That is often the situation that lifeguards find
themselves in."
Dates for the training March 15, 18, 19, 20, 21, and 22. Students must
attend all sessions to graduate, as well as pass a swimming test.
Students must be at least 15 years of age and possess strong swimming
skills.
Cost for the training is $150. Please call the Lakeway Area Red
Cross, 423 586-2442 for further information and to register.
Red Cross Reports a Good Year
BY JEAN HENDERSON Tribune Staff Writer
Morristown, TN 07/12/07 – The board of directors of the Lakeway Area Chapter of the American Red Cross learned yesterday just what a good year they’ve had.
During the chapter’s annual meeting, Executive Director Drew Ogle, board Chair Pam Johns and other leadership members recounted the gains enjoyed by the chapter, and by extension the community.
The news was good from a financial standpoint for the chapter.
Treasurer Annette Smith recounted the three goals for the 2006-2007 fiscal year were met: Maintaining control of the chapter’s cash flow, increasing its asset base and initiating programs to ensure its financial health.
A 13 percent increase in current assets and a 58 percent increase in the chapter’s liquid assets have given it a strong financial foundation, according to Smith.
One of the biggest factors in that stability was a bequest by Mabel Dennis of more than $105,000 to be used for long-term investments.
Smith said some of the financial strategies integrated for the past year also contributed to the chapter’s strong showing during the period, which included repricing of classes, cost-cutting measures, increased marketing and a launching planned giving initiative.
A full audit will be available in Sept. 15.
In Johns’ annual chair report, she credited Ogle and the entire staff for the chapter’s overall success.
“Drew has delivered everything he promised. He has been right here for the growth of programs and services and he’s expanded our presence in the community. His passionate presentation to the United Way meeting was a great example of his dedication to the job,” Johns said.
She also noted the tireless efforts of some of the chapter’s often unsung heroes.
“The Red Cross would be nothing without its volunteers,” she said.
Ogle reviewed some of the chapter’s focal points for the fiscal year.
As part of its community education commitment, the chapter partnered with the health departments in both Hamblen and Cocke counties in preparation for a potential avian flu outbreak.
That partnership led to seminars in the public sector, which included presentations to churches, hospitals and eventually businesses.
The program will be expanded again in the coming year, Ogle said.
“An investment in the Red Cross is an investment in the health and safety of the community,” he said.
Youth programs, including programs offered in cooperation with the school systems in both counties, continued to increase.
Health and safety classes attendance increased by 38 percent during the year, providing instruction for more than 6,800 participants. The revenues from those classes, which included core health and safety instruction as well as water safety and swimming classes, topped out a $100,000.
The Red Cross served 72 families through its armed forces emergency services during 2006-2007.
In previewing the coming year, Ogle said a new program, ARC-One, will be the main focus for chapters across the country.
Achieving Revolutionary Change through One Red Cross symbolizes a restructuring of the agency’s operations across the country.
The program, expected to be complete in two to three years, is expected to lift some administrative burdens on local staff and create standardized fundraising mechanisms, according to Ogle.
Disaster Chair Dorothy Zimmerman noted the local chapter served at 43 single family fires and one multi-family fire in the past year.
“We’re there before the fire trucks leave,” Zimmerman said.
The chapter also set up 12 first aid stations and entered into six new shelter agreements providing 19 facilities that may be utilized in a time of crisis, Zimmerman noted.
Retiring board member Joan Weesner was recognized for her commitment and dedication to the chapter, although she was heartily reminded, “You only have to be off the board for a year,” by Ogle and Governance Chair Elizabeth Gibson.
Heroes for the American Red Cross Chair Sandy McNease was also recognized for the success of that program, which raised more than $21,000 in donations.
The chapter’s three new board members were officially installed at the meeting. They include Joan Taylor, Pam Herrell and Jack Kennerly.
The current format for the chapter began in 2006 when the chapters in Hamblen and Cocke counties formed a partnership governed by a single board of directors. Ogle came on board as executive director in the same time frame.
The next board meeting for the Lakeway Area Chapter of the American Red Cross is slated for 6 p.m. Monday, Aug. 13 at the agency’s office at 1103 W. 1st North St. in Morristown.
Lakeway Red Cross to host Annual Meeting
Morristown, TN 06/22/07 – All Lakeway residents are cordially invited to the 90th annual meeting
of the membership of the Lakeway Area Chapter of the American Red Cross.
Scheduled for Monday, July 9, 6pm in the community room of Community
National Bank, the staff and volunteer leadership will highlight the
activities of the agency over the last 12 months. In addition, the slate
of nominees to join the board for the next three years will be
presented."It's been a very exciting year for our chapter," said Drew Ogle,
Executive Director. "New staff members, volunteers, and programs have
been introduced and have made a significant impact on our operations. We
are looking forward to telling our community about the difference we
make here in the Lakeway Area."
There is no cost to attend the meeting. All are invited. Anyone who has
made a donation of funds or time to the Red Cross over the last year is
considered a member and may vote on issues brought forth, including new
board members.
Red Cross and Salon Nouveau plan Fundraiser to Benefit Disaster Fund
Morristown, TN 05/18/07 – The Lakeway Area Chapter of the American Red Cross is partnering with
Salon Nouveau to offer a special day of pampering to benefit your
friends and neighbors in need. Make your reservations today for a salon
service on Saturday, May 26, and the proceeds will benefit the Lakeway
Area's Disaster Relief Fund.
"Helping others never felt so good," said Pamela Hempston, chair of the
fundraising committee of the Red Cross. "We are so grateful to everyone
at Salon Nouveau for donating their time, talents, and revenues to this
project.
The Lakeway Area Disaster Relief Fund is a special fund specifically
reserved for emergency relief needs. For example, when a Lakeway Area
family loses their home to a fire, the Red Cross is able to assist with
emergency housing, food, and clothing through the Disaster Relief Fund.
This year has been a particularly active fire season in the Lakeway
Area. In the last 30 days, the Lakeway Area Chapter has assisted 7
families who have lost their homes.
"The need never really ends," said Pamela. "The people in the Lakeway
Area are so generous, and through events such as this one with Salon
Nouveau we will be there to help."
Summer
Swim Lesson Sign-ups
Morristown, TN 04/13/07 – Any parents interested in having their children take summer swim lessons can come to the office on Friday, May 18 from Noon- 4PM or Saturday, May 19 from 10AM – 4PM. Our swim instructors will be present to sign up the students and answer all questions.
To be eligible for the Red Cross swim program children must be over pre-school age and have completed kindergarten. Cost is $25 per student, payable on sign-up day.
Lakeway Area Red Cross Kick-offs
Heroes Campaign in Hamblen County
Morristown, TN 03/14/07 – March is Red Cross month, and the Lakeway Area Chapter
of the American Red Cross is kicking off the chapter's second annual
"Heroes for the American Red Cross" campaign in Hamblen County on
Sunday, March 18. Sandy McNeace, of Colortech, is serving as chair of
the three week long event. Assisting Sandy is a committee of community
leaders, including Doak Gilliam of Valtimet, Inc., David Quillen of WJDT
FM 106.5 and WBGQ FM 100.7, Linda Wester of Hurt Financial, Shari Yount
of John Hay School, David Craft of Sonoco Flexible Packaging, and Brack
Terry, Esq. Of Terry, Terry & Stapleton.
In comments to her Heroes committee, McNease said, "The connotation of
the word "hero/heroine" implies a sacrifice to help the greater good. I
am hoping that our citizens will understand the importance of increasing
the local, Lakeway American Red Cross funds. As a community, we need to
have an attitude of preparedness for public health emergencies. I am
confident that the energy and enthusiasm of this team of will inspire
others to give wholeheartedly to help their neighbors in a time when the
needs are far greater than the resources."
The Executive Director of the local chapter Drew Ogle agrees completely
with McNeace. "It's important for our community to know that every
dollar raised will be used for Hamblen County programs," said Ogle.
Local activities of the Red Cross include emergency assistance to
families with disaster related needs, disaster preparation training and
disaster response, emergency communications and support for military
members and their families, health and safety training, and other forms
of community support. One of the most popular classes this year has been
the Scrubby Bear youth program, where the Red Cross has taught over 1200 Lakeway Area children the importance of good health, hygiene, and hand
washing. This program is completely free to the children, made possible
by donations.
The concept of the Heroes Campaign is simple. Any individual, business,
organization, or group can become a 'Hero for the American Red Cross' by
agreeing to raise $1,000 or more to support local efforts and the people
served by the Lakeway Area Chapter. The total goal for the campaign is
to raise $35,000.
Pam Johns from Lakeway Regional Hospital, current Red Cross board chair,
is 100% behind this appeal for local support. "The Heroes campaign is a
great program because it represents people helping others in our own
community. In today's time, $1,000 is not an unrealistic goal for an
individual or group. A school, church, or civic group could easily take
up a special collection to generate enough to become a Hero for the
American Red Cross. Businesses could have special activities with their
employees or customers."
The agency is looking forward to recognizing all the Heroes of 2007.
"We've already had many volunteers, both individuals and businesses,
step forward and say they wanted to be a Hero, even before we officially
announced the campaign" said Ogle. For more information on how to become
a Hero for the American Red Cross or how you can help, call the chapter
office, 423-586-2442 or visit the chapter's website at
www.lakewayredcross.org.
March is Red Cross Month
Morristown, TN 02/28/07 – Every year since 1943, the President of the United States has proclaimed March as Red Cross Month. Here at the Lakeway Area Red Cross, throughout the month of March, we will be promoting the mission and services of the Red Cross in our community.
Please visit our display at the Morristown Hamblen Public Library for brochures and information throughout the month of March. Our literature can help you learn how to be prepared in the event of disasters or other emergencies, which can strike suddenly, at anytime and anywhere. Learn the three steps to be “Red Cross Ready” -- Get a Kit, Make a Plan, and Be Informed.
In addition, during the month of March, all moms who give birth at Morristown-Hamblen Healthcare System or the Women’s Pavilion at Lakeway Regional Hospital will receive a gift bag from the Red Cross, which include a gift certificate for free training in Infant/Child CPR. This class prepares new parents to recognize and care for breathing and cardiac emergencies in children age 12 and under.
Lakeway Red Cross urges Winter Travel Preparedness
Morristown, TN 01/03/07 – Winter storms, including high winds, heavy snow, freezing rain and black
ice, can strike quickly and without warning and make driving conditions
hazardous. In addition to dangerous road conditions, rapid accumulation
of heavy snow can mire and even strand travelers on the road.Whether driving across town to do that holiday shopping or traveling
hundreds of miles to spend time with loved ones, planning ahead is
essential to alleviating stress and staying safe in your vehicle if a
winter storm emergency occurs. The American Red Cross offers the
following tips to help you prepare yourself and your vehicle today for
potential winter weather emergencies.
Get a Kit for Your Car
Buy and/or assemble an emergency supplies kit for your vehicle that
includes:
- Battery-powered NOAA radio with extra batteries
- Blanket and/or sleeping bags
- First aid kit and manual
Flashlight with extra batteries
- Fire extinguisher (5 lb., A-B-C type)
- Battery booster (jumper) cables and flares
- Tire repair kit and pump
- Compass, road map and knife
- Heavy sack of sand or cat litter (for tire traction) and tow rope
- Bottled water and non-perishable, high-energy foods such as peanut
butter, granola or energy bars
- Extra clothing to keep dry
- Windshield scraper and brush
Plan Ahead for Winter Travel Emergencies
- Preparing yourself and your vehicle before the snow and ice hit the
roads could save your life.
Winterize your car before taking it on the road by taking it to a
trusted mechanic. Several things can be checked such as the tire tread,
radiator and fluids to make it operate better under winter storm
conditions.
- Keep an extra supply of blankets in the trunk in the event that you are
stranded and have to wait for assistance.
- During the winter months, make sure to keep your gas tank near full to
avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines.
- Before traveling, make sure you and all passengers have a warm coat,
hat, gloves or mittens and water resistant boots. It is best to dress in
several lighter layers of clothing as opposed to one large outer layer.
Be Informed Before Heading Out
It may seem obvious, but in the rush of a hectic season, it's easy to
forget to check the weather before heading out.
- Listen to local television and radio stations will help keep you
up-to-date on the latest storm information. Local National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) radio also can provide useful
information about the weather.
- Learn now the difference between a severe weather WATCH and WARNING, and
what to do in the event of each.
- Always avoid unnecessary travel during the storm, but if you absolutely
must go out, use the utmost caution while driving.
Slow and Steady
Before you head out during inclement weather, remember to take your time
and drive well under the speed limit. Map out a route and tell a friend
or relative where you are going, which roads you'll be taking and what
time you should arrive. This ensures that if you don't arrive as
expected and your car gets stuck along the way, help can be sent along
your predetermined route.
Remember, even a short trip to the grocery is dangerous if the roads are
covered with ice and snow. Should you find yourself stranded or stuck in
your vehicle during a storm, stay calm and take these actions until help
arrives:
- Stay with your car! Do not try to walk to safety as you can become
quickly disoriented in bitter wind and cold and run the risk of
developing hypothermia and/or frostbite.
- Tie a brightly colored cloth, preferably red, to your antenna so
rescuers can easily see you.
- Run the engine and heater for about 10 minutes every hour. Make sure the
exhaust pipe is not blocked by snow or debris.
- Leave the overhead light on inside the car when the engine is running so
you can be seen.
- While sitting, move arms and legs continuously to keep your blood
circulating and to stay warm.
- Keep one window away from the blowing air open to let fresh air in and
reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
- After the snow has stopped falling, raise the hood to indicate you need
help.
- Continue listening to local stations after the storm has passed for
updates on additional weather and road conditions.
For additional information to help you and your loved ones get prepared
for unexpected situations, contact the Lakeway Red Cross at 423-586-2442
or 423-623-6133.
Season's Greetings from the Lakeway Area Red Cross
Morristown, TN 11/30/06 – As the year draws to a close, we wanted to take a minute and tell you
how your support made a difference, and how you can help us prepare for
2007.
House Fires- Every single week, we helped a Lakeway family who lost
their home. You helped us provide food, shelter, and clothing to a
neighbor in need.
Training Classes- With your help, we taught over 500 youth to swim. Over
2000 people learned CPR skills, and over 1000 were given first aid
training.
Youth Programs- In just the last two months, we've made over 1000
Lakeway area kids members of our Clean Hands Club, teaching them the
importance of good health and hygiene. Your support made this program
possible.
Pandemic Flu Preparation- We've begun our preparedness training for a
possible Bird Flu outbreak, helping to ensure your safety in the coming
year.
We need your help to prepare for 2007!
You count on your Red Cross to help the Lakeway area prepare for
disaster. We count on your help to do that. And when you make a holiday
donation to the Lakeway Red Cross, that gift stays in your community.
Only with your help can we continue offering our health and safety
classes. Only with your help can we help your neighbors who lose their
homes to fires, floods, and storms. Only with your help can we continue
preparing for the larger public health issues facing us, such as Avian
Bird Flu and bio-terrorism.
Please make a holiday donation today. Only with your help can we be
prepared! Call us at 423-586-2442 or 423-623-6133, or mail or stop by
the office at 1103 West First North Street in Morristown, TN 37814.
Sincerely,
Drew Ogle, Director
Lisa Gibbs, Services Director
Susan Christophel, Projects Coordinator
Don Ellison,
Service Specialist
Red Cross and Lakeway Regional to
Present Bird Flu Seminar
Morristown, TN 11/21/06 – The Lakeway Area Red Cross, in partnership with Lakeway Regional
Hospital, will present a free educational seminar next week on a
possible outbreak of bird flu entitled Pandemic Flu: Don't be afraid, be
ready! The seminar is Tuesday, November 28, at 7pm, at First Baptist
Church in Morristown. All are welcome."Bird flu and other possible pandemics are often sensationalized in
movies and on television," said Drew Ogle, executive director of the Red
Cross. "But with planning and preparation, we can minimize the impact of
a pandemic flu, and maybe even slow or prevent the spread of illness."
Topics covered during the seminar will include what to expect if a
pandemic flu occurs, preparing your home and family for a disruption of
services, health and hygiene tips to prevent illness, and caring for
someone with severe flu. Information will also be available to help
protect your business from a pandemic flu outbreak. Medical staff from
Lakeway Regional Hospital will be on hand to answer medical questions.
The Red Cross and Lakeway Regional Hospital have been working for
several months with other Lakeway Area agencies to compile a
comprehensive response plan to pandemic flu and other highly infectious
diseases. Ogle hopes attendance will be strong for the free seminar,
especially as winter is quickly approaching. "The steps you take to
protect yourself for pandemic flu are relevant not only to bird flu, but
any type of situation that causes public service disruption or extended
illnesses," he said. "With planning and preparation, you can help keep
your family safe."
# # #
Lakeway Area Chapter Urges
Rural Fire Safety
Morristown, TN 10/26/06 – As we head into the colder months, the Lakeway Area Chapter of the
American Red Cross is urging the community be aware of special fire
safety issues related to living in rural areas. Geographic location may
create longer response times for fire and rescue services.
If you live in the rural-urban interface, the point where homes meet
combustible vegetation, you must increase your role to protect lives and
property in your community beyond the city limits.
We encourage you to practice the following fire safety steps from the
United States Fire Administration. Remember, fire safety is your
personal responsibility... Fire Stops With You!
Fire Facts about Rural Living:
- Once a fire starts outdoors in a rural area, it is often hard to
control. Wildland firefighters are trained to protect natural resources,
not homes and buildings.
- Many homes are located far from fire stations. The result is
longer emergency response times. Within a matter of minutes, an entire
home may be destroyed by fire.
- Limited water supply in rural areas can make fire suppression
difficult.
- Homes may be secluded and surrounded by woods, dense brush and
combustible vegetation that fuel fires.
Tips For Fireproofing Your Property:
- Keep lawns trimmed, leaves raked, and the roof and rain-gutters
free from debris such as dead limbs and leaves.
- Stack firewood at least 30 feet away from your home.
- Store flammable materials, liquids and solvents in metal
containers outside the home at least 30 feet away from structures and
wooden fences.
- Create defensible space by thinning trees and brush within 30
feet around your home.
- Landscape your property with fire resistant plants and
vegetation to prevent fire from spreading quickly.
- Post home address signs that are clearly visible from the road.
- Provide emergency vehicle access with properly constructed
driveways and roadways, at least 12 feet wide with adequate turnaround
space.
- Make sure water sources, such as hydrants and ponds, are
accessible to the fire department.
- Burning yard waste is a fire hazard. Check with your local fire
agency on a non-emergency number for fire permit requirements and
restricted burning times.
Protect Your Home:
- Use fire resistant, protective roofing and materials like stone,
brick and metal to protect your home. Avoid using wood materials that
offer the least fire protection.
- Cover all exterior vents, attics and eaves with metal mesh
screens no larger than 6 millimeters.
- Install multipane windows, tempered safety glass or fireproof
shutters to protect large windows from radiant heat.
- Use fire-resistant draperies for added window protection.
- Have chimneys, wood stoves and all home heating systems
inspected and cleaned annually by a certified specialist.
Prepare Your Family:
- Know how to contact fire emergency services in your area.
- Plan ahead. Make sure you and your family are prepared for a
fire emergency.
- Develop and practice escape and evacuation plans with your
family.
- Install smoke alarms on every level of your home. Test them
monthly and change the batteries at least once a year. Consider
installing the new long-life smoke alarms.
# # #
American Red Cross Remembers Hurricane
Katrina
Red Cross supporting survivors and preparing families and communities for the future.
Morristown, TN 8/28/06 – One year ago, the United States braced itself for Hurricane Katrina. What followed was unimaginable in size and scope. But communities across this nation joined the American Red Cross in rising to the challenge of feeding, sheltering and providing emotional support to millions of our neighbors on the Gulf Coast. Now, communities are coming together again to remember Hurricane Katrina, support the survivors and prepare for the future.
Local Red Cross chapters and their community partners were at the heart of the response to Hurricane Katrina, and the
Lakeway Area Chapter was no different. Nationwide, the Red Cross served tens of millions of meals and snacks, shelters thousands of people, provided emergency assistance to more than four million people and mobilized nearly a quarter of a million Red Cross responders.
“Our chapter was pleased to contribute to the Katrina response by
giving financial assistance and lodging. Many organizations in our community joined forces to provide help to our neighbors on the Gulf Coast,” said
Lisa Gibbs, Services Director. “This anniversary gives us the opportunity to thank all of the Red Cross volunteers, partners and donors who gave their time and their financial resources to help those who suffered because of this disaster.
”But the need is still great and there is much work to be done. The Red Cross continues to help Hurricane Katrina, Rita and Wilma survivors through its Hurricane Recovery Program. This program assists survivors with emotional support services; help in planning their recovery and by providing information and referral services.
The Red Cross is also preparing should an emergency happen here. We have improved our disaster relief systems to be better, bigger and faster. We have more disaster relief supplies in more locations across the country. In our own community,
Lakeway Area Chapter is working to expand and develop local partnership efforts.
“We are reaching out to our community’s, business, academic, civic, technology, faith based and government leaders to make sure that we are all prepared for disaster,”
Lisa Gibbs went on to say. “In fact, we have new partnerships in place with
Nolachucky Baptist Association, Inc. and are training more volunteers to help respond to disasters locally.
The Red Cross is also encouraging people to be their
own first responders when emergencies happen. Individuals
and families can take the these simple steps to sustain
themselves before, during, and after a disaster:
Get a Kit:
- Build a disaster supplies kit including water, non-perishable food, radio, flashlight and extra batteries for both, a first aid kit, and necessary medications. Store important family documents (wills, passports, insurance policies, deeds, etc.) in a portable, waterproof and fireproof container as part of your kit.
- Prepare supplies for pets and family members with specific needs.
Make a Plan:
- Make evacuation and communication plans.
- Plan ahead for the possibility of becoming separated from your family and friends by choosing an out-of-town contact that each family or household member can call or email should a disaster occur.
- Plan on using the Red Cross Safe and Well Web Site which can be reached through
www.redcross.org.
Be Informed:
- Talk to your family about the types of disasters that can happen in your community.
- Follow the directions of emergency officials.
The American Red Cross has helped people mobilize to help their neighbors for 125 years. Last year, victims of a record 72,883 disasters, most of them fires, turned to the nearly 1 million volunteers and 35,000 employees of the Red Cross for help and hope. Through 804 locally supported chapters, more than 15 million people each year gain the skills they need to prepare for and respond to emergencies in their homes, communities and world. Almost 4 million people give blood—the gift of life—through the Red Cross, making it the largest supplier of blood and blood products in the United States. The Red Cross helps thousands of U.S. service members separated from their families by military duty stay connected. As part of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, a global network of more than 180 national societies, the Red Cross helps restore hope and dignity to the world's most vulnerable people. An average of 91 cents of every dollar the Red Cross spends is invested in humanitarian services and programs. The Red Cross is not a government agency; it relies on donations of time, money, and blood to do its work.
Lakeway Red Cross Plans
Ladies' Evening Fundraiser
The Lakeway Area Chapter of the American Red Cross is hosting a special
Ladies' Evening Social Fundraiser on Wednesday, August 30 at the
Morristown County Club. All proceeds will benefit the local operations
of the Red Cross.
Pamela Hempston, fundraising chairperson for the agency, is inviting the
women of the Lakeway Area to join her for an evening of fun and
fundraising. The festivities will begin at 6:30 pm at the Country Club
with hors d'oeuvres. The social time will be followed with dessert and a
short auction of unique items and gifts. Tickets are $15 per person.
Pamela has been busy collecting interesting items for the auction,
including gift baskets, aromatherapy packages, and dessert china, but
attendees are also encouraged to bring an item to donate. "Part of the
fun is the surprise of what people will bring that evening. When I have
hosted similar events in the past, ladies have been so generous to
donate items from around the world. Sometimes they are homemade;
sometimes they are store bought"
Tickets to the Ladies' Evening are available at the Red Cross office at
1103 West First North Street. Anyone wishing to donate can also bring an
item to the office, or to the event that evening. For more information,
call 423-586-2442.
Lakeway Red Cross Urges Safety in Hot Weather
Morristown, TN- Due to the record setting
heat affecting our area, the
Lakeway Chapter of the American Red Cross
has issued basic guidelines
for staying safe in the hot weather.
"When the temperature climbs past 90
degrees for more than three days,
experts recommend remaining indoors," said
Drew Ogle, Executive
Director. "Even short exposure to extreme
heat can cause dehydration,
heat exhaustion, or heat stroke. The very
young and very old are
particularly vulnerable, so check on
elderly neighbors and make sure
everyone in your family stays cool and
drinks plenty of water, including
toddlers and pets."
If you cannot avoid going outdoors, be sure
to take the following
precautions to avoid heat-related
illnesses:
1. Dress for the heat - Wear lightweight,
light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect away some of the sun's
energy. It is also a good idea to wear hats or to use an umbrella.
2. Drink water - Carry water or juice with
you and drink continuously even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid
alcohol and caffeine, which dehydrate the body.
3. Eat small meals - Eat smaller meals and
eat more often. Avoid foods that are high in protein which increase
metabolic heat.
4. Avoid using salt tablets - Avoid using
salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
5. Slow down - Avoid strenuous activity. If
you must do strenuous
activity, do it during the coolest part of
the day, which is usually in the morning between 4:00 a.m. and 7 a.m.
6. Take regular breaks - When engaged in
physical activity on warm days, take time out to find a cool place. If you
or someone else experience symptoms of a heat-related illness, stop
activity and find a cool place to rest. Remember, have fun, but stay cool.
The key to avoiding heat-related illness is
to think light. Keep a
moderate or low level in activity,
exposure, and intensity to remain
safe. The same theory applies to diet, with
lighter meals, and clothes,
with lighter materials and colors.
Should you or someone you know show signs
of heat exhaustion or heat
stroke, it is important that you treat the
symptoms immediately.
Heat-related illness comes in stages. The
first sign or stage is usually
painful heat cramps of the muscles. These
can be treated by stopping
activity, cooling the body and taking in
more fluids. The next, more
serious stage is heat exhaustion. It can be
generally be treated the
same as heat cramps.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include:
Cool, moist, pale skin (the skin may be red
right after physical
activity); skin may or may not feel hot
Headache or dizziness
Weakness or exhaustion
Nausea
The signals of the late stage of a
heat-related illness (often called
heat stroke) include:
High body temperature (sometimes as high as
105 degrees)
Skin may still be moist or the victim may
stop sweating and the skin maybe red, hot and dry
Decreased alertness level or complete loss
of consciousness
Rapid, weak pulse
Rapid, shallow breathing
Vomiting
If victims refuse water or demonstrate
symptoms of heat stroke, call
9-1-1 immediately; heat-related illness can
be fatal if not properly
treated.
Lakeway Area Chapter Recognizes Special Donors
Each year, there are those in our community
that recognize and respond
to the call for a strong local Red Cross. All
of these individuals and
companies have donated at least $1000 to
support local operations. Many
have given more, and most gave this in addition
to donations to
Hurricane Katrina relief. In honor of their
generosity, we recognize
them as founding members of our Clara Barton
Society, named after the
founder of the American Red Cross.
Lakeway Area Red Cross to Hold Annual Meeting
The Lakeway Area Chapter of the American Red Cross will hold its 2006 Annual Meeting on Monday, July 10, at 6pm. The meeting will be held in the board room of the Morristown Area Chamber of Commerce. The public is invited to attend.
“This has been a very active year for our local Red Cross,” said Drew Ogle, executive director of the agency. “We combined the operations of the chapters in Hamblen and Cocke counties. Our volunteers assisted with the Gulf Coast hurricanes and the tornadoes in middle Tennessee. We responded to a multitude of single family fires. Our health and safety programs expanded their reach across the Lakeway area. I hope the citizens of our counties will come hear about this exciting time for the agency.”
The annual meeting offers more than just a presentation on the various operations of the Red Cross. It is also the time when new board members are elected to lead the organization. You are eligible to vote in the board member election if you live in either Hamblen or Cocke counties and have given a monetary donation of any size to the organization or any volunteer time.
The current slate of nominees for terms beginning in July of 2006
includes:
- Janet Dalton, Principal, Lincoln Elementary School
- Ruby Glasscock, Human Resource
Manager, Howmet
- Marylou Mauney, CFO, Jeffrey Chain
- Adam Rankin, Production Manager, Colortech
- Clark Rucker, CFO, Morristown Utilities and Fibernet
- Betzaida Shands, Hispanic Outreach
Coordinator, Cherokee Health Systems
- Annette Smith, Vice President, Community National Bank
Nominations will also be taken from the floor at the annual meeting.
Local Chapters of the Red Cross Form
Partnership, Announce New Name
April 1, 2006- The Hamblen County Chapter of the American Red
Cross announced today that a new strategic partnership has been
formed with the Red Cross in Cocke County. The two chapters will
now operate under one governing board and be known as the Lakeway
Area Chapter.
“We are very excited about this new alliance,” said Executive
Director Drew Ogle. “By working more closely with the chapter in
our neighboring county, we are able to expand our operations and
volunteer base significantly while streamlining the costs of
delivering services in both areas.”
Preparations for the partnership began over a year ago when board
members for the two chapters met to discuss ways to improve
operations in the Lakeway area. They discovered that operating two
separate chapters so close together often duplicated efforts. By
combining some areas of operations, they could reduce costs and
offer more services to Lakeway residents. As an example, Ogle
mentioned the chapter’s Disaster Action Team, which responds to
local disasters, such as house fires, as well as national events.
Instead of two smaller teams, the Lakeway Area Chapter now has a
large 60 member team prepared to respond to events in both
counties. In addition, the cost of training the team has been
significantly reduced as the chapters no longer have to provide
two separate training programs.
Ogle emphasized that although the two offices are sharing some
functions, they are still separate operations, particularly in
terms of donor gifts and accounting. “It is very important to
residents of each county to see their own community prepared in
times of disaster, and donor intent is very important to us in the
Red Cross. When a Hamblen County resident gives to local
operations, that money stays in Hamblen County. The same is true
in Cocke. When a donor gives to national operations, such as
hurricane relief, that is where that money goes.”
For more information about the Lakeway Area Chapter of the
American Red Cross, including how you can get involved, call the
Hamblen County office at 423-586-2442 or the Cocke County office
at 423-623-6133.
New Fitness
Center to Host Benefit Basketball Contest
May 21, 2006- National Fitness Center, the new state-of-the-art fitness
center that has just opened in Morristown, will be hosting an upcoming
basketball free throw contest. The purpose of the contest is to
introduce the center to the Lakeway community and to also help a worthy
cause.
The Hoops for Heroes contest will be on Saturday, June 3, from 1-3 pm.
The contest will be divided into several different categories, such as
Most Three Throws in a Minute, Most Free Throws in a Row, and Most Three
Pointers Thrown. There will also be three age categories: kids, teens,
and adults. "It will be fun for the whole family, plus it will help a
good cause," said Rob Jones, Manager of National Fitness.
To enter the contest, National Fitness is suggesting a $5 donation,
which will be given to the Lakeway Area Chapter of the American Red
Cross as part of their Heroes fundraising campaign. "We are proud to
partner with National Fitness for this exciting family event," said Drew
Ogle, Director of the Red Cross. "National Fitness and the Red Cross
both promote healthy families and a healthy community."
There are many different prizes for the contest, which have been donated
by local individuals and businesses. Some of the items include portable
MP3 players, 10-day memberships to National Fitness Center, backpacks,
t-shirts, and water bottles. Some of the prizes will not be announced
until the day of the contest.
You do not have to be a member of National Fitness to participate in the
contest. To register, come by the fitness center anytime during the week
leading up to the contest, or you can register on the day of the
contest. While you are there, you can take a tour of the center's gym,
workout floor, cardio theater, day care center, and the new indoor pool.
For more information, contact National Fitness Center at 423-317-3337 or
the Lakeway Chapter of the American Red Cross at 423-586-2442. You can
also visit the Red Cross website at www.lakewayredcross.org.
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