Rist Canyon VFD recognizes outstanding volunteers

Two President’s Awards were presented Nov. 8 at the annual board meeting of the Rist Canyon Volunteer Fire Department. Held at Stove Prairie School, the meeting was attended by approximately 40 people who enjoyed a potluck dinner beforehand.

Capt. Carol Dollard received a President’s Award in recognition of her work over the past two years to manage the construction of RCVFD’s Fire Station #1. Board member Louise Creager received her President’s Award for dedication to completing the conversion of RCVFD to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation and for her significant effort over the past two years to resurrect the Fine Art Auction at the annual Mountain Festival.

“I was both honored and surprised by the award,” said Creager, a local Realtor with RE/MAX Alliance. “The 501(c)(3) designation allows the fire department to receive matching funds from employee contributions and apply for and receive grants.”

RCVFD President Mike Thompson presented the 2014 Awards at the meeting. The following board members were elected for 2015: Mike Thompson, president; Shane Downing, vice president; Bob Gann, fire chief; Richard Lund, treasurer; Margot Horner, Ristwatch editor; Leisa Taylor, secretary; Louise Creager, Stratton Park area representative; Joanne Thompson, Stove Prairie area representative; Jennifer Nolte, Whale Rock area representative; Dick Schettler, Davis Ranch area representative; Jordy Levick, Rist Canyon area representative; and Don Pytlik, Buckhorn Road area representative.

President Thompson thanked the community, the festival volunteers and the RCVFD volunteers for their continued work and support. He said that highlights from the past year include the near completion of Station #1, the return of the live art auction in 2014 and the continued progress at Station #4. Shane Downing, RCVFD vice-president, reported on four opportunities for 2015 festival chairs: firehouse silent auction, books, off-stage entertainment and the car show. Richard Lund, RCVFD treasurer, presented the annual Treasurer’s Report.

Chief Bob Gann said the past year has been quiet from an operational standpoint. “There has been very little fire activity, and no medical calls have been major ones,” he said. Gann also reported that Luke Whitson has been named assistant fire chief, replacing Jeff Elsner who is retiring.