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WHETSTONE FIRE BOARD RECALL: Search begins for candidates

BY DANA COLE
HERALD/REVIEW
Published/Last Modified on Thursday, Aug 16, 2007 - 05:15:20 am MST

WHETSTONE — Four Whetstone Fire District board members will be going through a recall election in November.

Who will face them has yet to be determined.

The action was initiated by Whetstone residents who object to the board’s decision to terminate the district’s former fire chief, Therese Williamson.

The board members slated for recall are Rick Evans, Mary Foote, Ken Leffler and chairman Bill Moss. A fifth member, Jerry Hopper, is not named on the recall.



Unhappy with how the board handled Williamson’s termination, Whetstone resident Cleo Lajeunesse is spearheading the recall effort.

“I filed the petition for the recall because the board members have not taken the initiative to educate themselves about legal procedures and Arizona statutes that must be followed while they’re in office,” she said. “I do really appreciate the time and energy they’ve put into the board, but have concerns about how things are being run.”

Lajeunesse, who is urging residents to get involved with community issues, said she  knows of eight people interested in running against the current board members. Those people will be conversing with each other to narrow the number down to four, selecting the candidates they feel are best qualified to serve on the board.

“Anyone interested in running should contact me (Lajeunesse) at 456-0347, and I’ll let them know about the procedures for getting their name on the ballot,” Lajeunesse said. “Or they can contact the county elections department and speak to Tom Schelling (432-8970).”

Williamson, who started working with the fire district in 1984 as a volunteer, has given 22 years service to the fire district. For the first 10 years, she served as a volunteer. She and her deceased husband, Gene Dunn, are credited with starting and growing the fire district, initially with an all-volunteer crew. Williamson was the first Whetstone firefighter to go through paramedic training, setting an example for other firefighters to do the same.

With a background in accounting, Williamson has assisted with grant writing and lease purchases that provided the district with badly needed funding for a new building and equipment.

The fire district’s board named Charles Balke as interim fire chief while it searches for a qualified person to fill the position permanently. Currently employed as a paramedic firefighter for the Sierra Vista Fire Department, Balke said he has no interest in applying for the position.

During the three months he has served as interim chief, Balke has been working to bring the district into compliance with national regulations, something the board says had not been happening with Williamson and one of the primary reasons given for her termination. According to a report prepared by board member Evans, “The fire district is not in compliance with even a fourth of the laws, standards and procedures that should guide district operations.”

At a May 22 meeting where residents demanded reasons for Williamson’s termination, Evans outlined a litany of problems the board had uncovered. Some of those included lack of record keeping, poor operational preparedness, failure to test fire trucks and hoses, poor response times and failure to provide employees with essential fire training programs.

While Lajeunesse does not dispute the board’s argument that Williamson should have been working to correct the problems, she questions their oversight during her time as fire chief.

“If Therese was not in compliance, who is to blame?” she asked. “It’s the board’s responsibility to make sure the fire chief is doing what it takes to be in compliance with state and federal regulations.”

 It’s a responsibility, Lajeunesse added, that should trickle from the top down.

“Based on the information the board members and Therese gave me, the board never conducted any kind of evaluation on Therese, written or verbal,” she said.

Hoping to find someone with more qualifications and training to fill the fire chief position, board members are promising to take a hard look at all applicants, to include experience with a fire district, background checks and general knowledge.

Meanwhile, Schelling said the recall is moving forward. Four packets have been picked up by Lajeunesse, something the candidates will need to submit by Sept. 7.

Candidates need five signatures from registered voters living in the Whetstone Fire District to qualify, Schelling said.

In addition, each candidate must be a registered voter living within the boundaries of the Whetstone Fire District.

For those who would like to vote in the election on Nov. 6 but are not registered  to vote, the registration deadline is Oct. 8



Key dates

• Sept. 7: Date for Whetstone Fire District recall candidates to file packets

• Oct. 8: Voter registration deadline for Whetstone Fire District recall vote

• Nov. 6: Election day

For information about the election, call the Cochise County Elections Department at 432-8970.

Herald/review reporter Dana Cole can be reached at 515-4618 or by e-mail at dana.cole@svherald.com.


Copyright © 2009 The Sierra Vista Herald


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    Informed wrote on Sep 12, 2007 8:13 AM:

    " I am a resident who is extremely happy that Rick has the experience he does, he was helpful in informing the board members the department deficiencies and how to get them up to standards. Therese failed in all her years to get the easiest standards in line, infection control, updating SOP's, training, among a shopping list of other things that any real chief around should have known, and if didn't know would have researched in order to keep up with the national standards for the publics/firefighters safety. I look forward to voting for our current board, for my safety! "

    voter wrote on Sep 12, 2007 8:01 AM:

    " FTOLI Needs to get your facts straight, Rick doesn't have an interest in being chief, I asked. He is interested in getting our community up to standards and safe, and getting our firefighters the proper training, things that weren't done before. you sound paranoid and are looking for something to complain about rick again. but like before you really don't have a clue as to what Rick wants. "

    From the outside looking in wrote on Sep 11, 2007 11:39 AM:

    " After reading the article in todays paper 9-11-07, it is obvious that a hidden agenda is in the works for Rick Evans. Think about it- A resident of the fire district, a tremendous firefighting background (city & fire district government), a current fire board member that was able to convince other board members to get rid of the current fire chief, and an employee of Huachuca City Fire Department. It looks to me like the residents of the fire district will be calling him Chief Evans soon. "

    resident voter wrote on Sep 10, 2007 10:56 PM:

    " My vote will be for the same board members, Rick did a very good job on informing us our department wasn't in compliance and hasn't been for a long, long time, and tried to get the department there quickly, as this isn't something to procrastinate on. Mary, Bill, and Ken, are good honest people with good hearts, and they deserve more respect than what they have gotten from ill-informed and misguided community members. I think alot of the community has saw the light in what is really going on and will vote the same way. "

    Wondering wrote on Sep 10, 2007 9:12 AM:

    " Yes I am wondering who the new candidates will be, as there hasn't been anybody that really made all the meetings after all the so-called problems with the board. The current board members have done a great job in finally getting to the truth of the matter after years of excuses from Therese. There isn't anybody else. "

    vote em out wrote on Sep 9, 2007 5:52 PM:

    " So who are the candidates? Deadline last Friday. "

    concerned resident wrote on Sep 9, 2007 4:53 PM:

    " To Whetstone and Resident: Please get your facts straight before you write about something you know nothing about, the meetings were posted in the proper place, and did you think to call the fire department if it was to hard to stop by and look? Our board does a great job, and I will be voting to keep them in, there isn't no-one that I can think of who I would want to take their place. They are honest and hard working, thats more than I can say about some of the people wanting to run for the board! "

    whetstone resident wrote on Sep 8, 2007 11:19 AM:

    " The board has done an exceptional job in the handling of all the things lately. They finally found out that they weren't getting anywhere in moving forward, found out Therese was not doing her job and not telling the board the whole truths. Then got rid of the communities problem, and got the right track. I believe our board is doing a great job, there is no one in the community that I could see that could take their place, no one is making an attempt to go to the meetings all along and stay informed. Keep our boardmembers! "

    resident wrote on Sep 6, 2007 8:26 PM:

    " whetstone and regulations - you are not correct when you say the meeting was not posted. It was posted exactly where it was supposed to be posted by law. I stopped by to check the time for the meeting and it was posted. Again statements made without the facts, you even state yourself you are not sure if they were posted at the fire station or the water company, these are the only places they are legally supposed to be posted. Where do you propose the new board with knowledge will come from? "

    whetstone wrote on Sep 6, 2007 1:39 PM:

    " Every individual should know and perform their job, if everyone did this than things would get accomplished. The current fire board cant do their own job how do they expect the ones below them to take pride in their jobs (set an example board). The board cant follow simple open meeting laws that they should know. Before we can hire a new chief and get the district up to standard we need a new board that has knowledge! "

    regulations wrote on Sep 6, 2007 1:31 PM:

    " This current fire board needs to be replaced! They cant follow simple procedures what makes you think they can do what is good for the community. The last board meeting was not posted at shell station or mustang crossings. I dont even know if it was posted at the fire station or the water office. The board is responsible to post all meetings at least 24 hours in advance and they cant even manage this. Time for a real board that can do the job! "

    Good Idea wrote on Sep 6, 2007 10:14 AM:

    " Good Ideas here! As a taxpayer I vote to get a qualified chief, do away with the Asst Chief slot, and re-evaluate the employees. If the community knows what is good they will not vote for Therese. Please do not vote for Therese for board member. "

    resident20 wrote on Sep 5, 2007 1:13 PM:

    " If they are running for the board they should be actively involved in all the board meetings, they should be talking to the community to find out what we would like in our fire dept and they should let us know what they will get accomplished and what experience and knowledge they have in this area. Are they waiting till Sept when the final date is to file the their petition, that is too late for me, that gives them only 2 meetings to attend and 6 weeks to give us information. My vote stays with the current board!! "

    resident20 wrote on Sep 5, 2007 1:08 PM:

    " Resident70 I agree with you lets keep the old board, so far I have not seen or heard of anyone running against the board in the election, so how do we vote in Nov for people we know nothing about. What makes them think they can do a better job and when and how are they going to prove that to us before the election. I attended that last board meeting and I knew everyone except for one person and there was no mention that they were running for the board. (next post) "

    resident27 wrote on Sep 4, 2007 9:13 PM:

    " It's sad that a recall is going to happen. This is a huge waste of our taxpayers money. But besides that the current board-members are doing a great job and we should keep them, they are making a real effort to research and get things right, I don't feel that a new board-member would. "

    resident wrote on Sep 4, 2007 6:44 PM:

    " Rick doesn't really know WFD, but in this instance it was a good thing, he has never played favorites or looked the other way when something was wrong. Because he isn't personally involved with the people of WFD he was able to look objectively at the whole picture and see what changes were needed and educated the boardmembers on what would best benifit the fire department and the community and why there is such a thing as standards. "

    WFD Resident wrote on Sep 4, 2007 5:53 PM:

    " Very good piont to F.T.O.L.I. It would save the district a substantial amount of money if we only had a fire chief as that is all we really need, and evaluate all the employees, on conduct, attitude, physical agility, and ethics. A big part of the problem there hasn't been much on those standards that I see at WFD in quite a few of the firefighters there. Get rid of the Asst. Chief it is a waste of money in a small district make some lower paying officers with proper certifications! "

    From the outside looking in wrote on Sep 4, 2007 3:04 PM:

    " A recall is going to happen regardless. The new board will be responsible for hiring a fire chief. The fire chief will be accountable to the fire board. The fire board accountable to the tax payer. This will be a long learning process for all. Certain laws govern fire districts and the board will have to learn and employ them. The fire department is not large enough to warrant an Assistant chief. The new fire chief should put all of the employees back as firefighters regardless of their current rank and evaluate each. "

    Suprised! wrote on Sep 3, 2007 5:13 PM:

    " After reading the posts in here I am surprised to learn that, A) The Asst. Cheif is only a basic firefighter with basic experience after all those years. B)One of the firefighters as WFD has embarrassing work ethics. C)That only Therese was held accountable for all the deficiencies, when it was all the officers responsibility to inform. and finally,D) Therese wants to be on the board after being fired. It's all embarrassing! "

    Good points wrote on Sep 1, 2007 3:05 PM:

    " Good points! I'm not fond of Rick Evans, but you have to admit that he did step up when he had to. As for the rest of the board members I think they supported the Ex-Chief until they couldn't anymore. The problem I have with rick is that he really doesn't know any of the members at the WFD as he is new, but despite this he went in and instigated life changing actions on some of the employees. Chuck is a very equitable, patient, smart man, all he needs is his degree and he will be the complete package.Continued.... "

    Connie wrote on Sep 1, 2007 12:01 PM:

    " Rick Evans has done a great job in bringing up the district to national standards, I'm glad he pointed out that WFD was extremely deficient and that there are reasons why there is such a thing as standards. I am also happy that our board members finally saw the light and I hope they see the light in getting our so-called officers up to standards, and that they make the WFD FF accountable ! "

    wfd resident wrote on Sep 1, 2007 9:02 AM:

    " We need to have our officers and asst. chief and the new chief have or get the required certification for our communities safety. If our asst. chief isn't the college type as one wfd firefighter wrote, then he needs to rethink his position, and if our firefighters aren't able to conduct themselves with pride, get rid of them, as they represent us, Whetstone. If we want to better our community lets just do it. Get the right people in there, don't settle for has-beens or wanna-be's who don't want to do the job but want the title, we deserve more. "

    johnny wrote on Sep 1, 2007 8:49 AM:

    " The department has one firefighter who doesn't know how to conduct themselves, to state "shut the hell up" tells everybody that this person has some serious problems, as a firefighter whos wages our tax dollars are paying to tell a community members this, unacceptable. Clearly she has no idea on what conduct becomes our fire department. She is unable to control herself and is in need of some serious soul searching as odviously this is not the job for her. This job requires finesse/class which are two highly recommended requirements that we as the community should ask for and recieve. "

    Resident 32 wrote on Aug 31, 2007 5:22 PM:

    " We need to keep the board members we got, Rick Evans has done a HUGE community service in pointing out that Therese failed as a Chief to get even the most minimal standards for our firefighters and community. All the other board members have done a great job in trying to support Therese even though she failed, they gave her chance after chance until she ran out, Now we are on the right track. "

    Good Job "Resident" wrote on Aug 31, 2007 8:56 AM:

    " "Huh", "Bub", or "Buddy" or whatever he calls himself is so worried about the spelling of my posts that he has forgotten the point of this blog. You have potential "Bub", so don't waste your time fighting and make a positive impact on society. It's been fun going back and forth with you, but I have a class to get to for my Master's. hahaha "

    Resident wrote on Aug 30, 2007 10:42 PM:

    " huh-what gives? why the need for the attack? who cares about the spelling? get a life! have either duh or huh been to a board meeting? have either of you spent any time at the station? get off your huhandduhs and make a difference, get involved! the personal attacks are stupid stuff. "

    hot stuff wrote on Aug 30, 2007 7:35 PM:

    " Another thing, Duh, it's not that I'm busy playing English teacher. Quick advice, before you start going around calling people "un-educted", you might want to do a spell check before pressing the "post" button. The simplest thing such as a misspelled word can make a person who is trying desperately to act intelligent, look like an idiot. I just can't take you seriously, sorry. Hehe. "

    hot stuff wrote on Aug 30, 2007 7:18 PM:

    " Hey Duh... I am simply offering my support to this station and do not agree with some of the poster's who stoop so low (including you) by trying to humiliate the employees of WFD. Don't believe that was my intent? Refer to my original post 28 Aug. Then, if you can understand what you've read, maybe you'll see who "attacked" who. YOU, Bub, were attacking all at WFD by demeaning their characters here, because you ASSUMED I was one of them. Bottom line, I'm right and you're wrong. Now go open a spelling/grammar book. To should be too. "

    resident wrote on Aug 30, 2007 6:32 PM:

    " duh and huh lets put all that energy into working with the community to better the fire dept. Attend a meeting, join the aux. Run for election. Do something constructive who cares about spelling on a blog. Most people use abbreviations on the internet and I can not even figure out what they are talking about. Opposition is good, but being personally critical of someone is not. "

    Response to huh? wrote on Aug 30, 2007 2:33 PM wrote on Aug 30, 2007 6:28 PM:

    " You are the hateful negative person. That other person posted their opinion and you jumped on him/her because he/she misspelled a few words. How can you deal with yourself. Hopefully, your next post will have a good idea for helping the station out. "

    Duh? wrote on Aug 30, 2007 6:07 PM:

    " First and foremost, you're the one who attacked me. I simply made a comment that obviously hurt your feelings. Have you said anything constructive besides editing my writing? Where are your Ideas buddy? Are you to busy playing English Teacher? "

    huh? wrote on Aug 30, 2007 2:33 PM:

    " First and foremost, I am not an employee of WFD. If someone posts in defense of the station, you automatically assume they are one of the employees? Look beyond your shallowness and PERHAPS you may see that someone truly cares about the Firefighters/EMT's at Whetstone. You, my friend, are part of the problem. You're very quick at degrading people because obviously, you cannot think of anything constructive. How sad your life must be with such negativity and hatred. Buddy, really though, "i" before "e" except after "c". "

    resident20 wrote on Aug 30, 2007 11:46 AM:

    " I attended the board meeting on Tuesday. There were 6 people in attendance. 1 reporter 4 adults and 1 young resident. There were no comments from the audience that would lead you to believe that any member of the audience was going to run for the board. Where were these folks, there are only 2 more board meetings till election time. How can you run if you are not staying abreast of the issues. I would expect if you want my vote you should be on top of things, if you happen to get elected you will know what ishappening. "

    Good Point wrote on Aug 30, 2007 9:29 AM:

    " Resident: Nicely said that is the real issue. If in the process of becoming more involved we uncover the fallacy causing our fire dept not to progress then we can make recomendations to the board about leadership or employees. "

    Real Issues wrote on Aug 30, 2007 8:34 AM:

    " As a memeber of the community you want changes, go to the board meeting. Keep our current board members, they have done a good job, and go to the board meetings to make sure they are doing a good job, or watch firefighters on any EMS calls they go to make sure they are acting professional and if not, then write it in to the board. If we want standards then quite talking about them and do something, maybe we can weed-out the unprofessional ones. "

    unexpectedly humorous impact wrote on Aug 29, 2007 11:01 PM:

    " I'm so glad that I made you seem intelligent for a minute or two because your ignorance knows no bounds. You think coming on here and editing these posts makes you seem intelligent? Maybe you should go to college and become an English Teacher; I know you're not a graduate. Also, you insist on using the word "professional". While you're looking up the words that I "misspelled", perhaps you should look up the word "professional" and see that you and your freinds don't qualify for that. "

    resident wrote on Aug 29, 2007 9:47 PM:

    " folks we are loosing site of the real issue here. the community needs to step up and keep informed, go to some meetings, support the dept and ask for accountablilty for our tax dollars. Educated and professional sometimes go hand in hand, but not always. You can be educated and not act professional or you can act professional and not be educated. We would like to have both in the perfect world. "

    resident wrote on Aug 29, 2007 9:29 PM:

    " Ok I was not able to make the fireboard meeting on Tuesday, did anyone attend? Did any of the folks that are going to run for the board attend? What is thier platform and what will they do to improve the fire district? Let us know. Thks "

    To Reesponthz wrote on Aug 29, 2007 9:14 PM:

    " You sound like a wfd firefighter who got their feeling hurt. You sound so nice and mature? WOW I wish more people had your attitude towards the public. "

    Reesponthz to response wrote on Aug 29, 2007 6:00 PM:

    " Oh my goodness, to think you could actually misspell the word misspell. Hold up... let me look up the word educted before I respond. What does chemistry have to do with this subject? Hahaha, look who's the unEDUCATED one. Buddy, let's hope you won't ever need medical help from one of these uneducated professionals. They might not know your arm from your leg! (Actually, I wanted to put a couple different words in there.) "

    Response wrote on Aug 29, 2007 3:24 PM:

    " Yes, I mispelled "smoke", but that's not near as bad as you calling un-educted people professional. "

    AZFF wrote on Aug 29, 2007 2:28 PM:

    " I would hope that a better example of profesionalism is projected from now on, remember a member of public service is always on duty, and your actions and reactions are a representative of your department at all times. Therese is gone an so are a few good firefighters. Lets all try to move on and get the district going in the right direction! Let the healing begin! "

    resident28 wrote on Aug 29, 2007 12:01 PM:

    " I hope our district pulls together and that our fire department pulls together for our best interest. I think that the focus is getting off the real issues that we have. The board and Therese, the board has done a great community service and I sincerly hope that they are allowed to continue to do so, as for our fire department, I hope that Jon and the rest of our firefighters get themselves together and better themselves for our sake, and that we will finally be able to get a real chief with the right background/education, to better lead WFD. "

    firefighterCC wrote on Aug 29, 2007 8:44 AM:

    " I know that there is a serious lack of unity at WFD. I also know that the last few people that left, not so much as a "thank you, good luck, good job, we appreciated your time" from any of the officers, thats the example that is set. No one is appreciated, and the brown-nosers are the only ones that get-away with doing nothing. "

    Like I said wrote on Aug 29, 2007 8:34 AM:

    " So what's the point of your post? I'm glad you got your SOMOKE detectors installed. My post was in defense to the "unprofessionalism" displayed by a firefighter. The public's entitled to beat down the employees for all the world to read? I guess they are, and I guess the professionals are supposed to sit back and take it. "

    Tired of this already wrote on Aug 29, 2007 8:25 AM:

    " The happenings at this station are not exclusive to this department. This is going on nationwide and then some. Read up on the Tucson Northwest Capt. All thanks to ex chief Therese and her friends, Whetstone Fire is the scapegoat for ridicule and criticism. Let's pull together as a county and support all public servants who service our residents. It's time to stop degrading and creating animosity. The problem is gone and things can only get better. Let's support them on this. "

    Response To "Come on Now" wrote on Aug 28, 2007 10:07 PM:

    " "You are battling a brotherhood/sisterhood who's loyalty to each other runs high. " Are you being Serious? You must be talking about the Whetstone located on the east coast. This statement couldn't be more false. We are talking about management that puts you down when you do good or want to do good. Last Fall two young gentlemen came to my door and installed somoke detectors and carbon Monoxide detectors for free, I offered to pay for them and they said that one of the gentlemen got them on a grant. We need people like them that step up. "

    Come on now wrote on Aug 28, 2007 7:39 PM:

    " Wow! So much ugly words towards this small station. Whetstone is part of Cochise County and instead of showing support, you people are making this station the laughing stock of whoever reads this. The employees are now being cast into the limelight and open for jokes, teasing, etc. and frankly, it's a moral beater. How do you people think they can maintain their professionalism without feeling the need to defend themselves or each other? You are battling a brotherhood/sisterhood who's loyalty to each other runs high. "

    Student wrote on Aug 28, 2007 6:43 PM:

    " If a person wants it bad enough they won't make excuses on why they can't they find a way to do! There is always a way, a person might just have to work at it a little harder to accomplish a goal. If they really wanted to anyway. "

    Opinion wrote on Aug 28, 2007 3:53 PM:

    " What I dont understand is how people say that its too expensive to go to college, but they will turn around and buy a new vehicle, Motorcycle, RV, or Boat. Why not just get student loans instead? I think its just an excuse not to go to school. "

    Hopeful wrote on Aug 28, 2007 3:34 PM:

    " I really do that our district unites and gets it together, I hope that Chuck and Jon and the other firefighters try to better themselves for the districts safety and thier own,they are already working hard toward this, I also hope that in the future they remember their manners, and their position in the community. I have never seen at anyother fire department the lack of professionalism that I have witnessed here, that is all hopefully going to change. I am pulling for WFD to get better and am hoping that the current boardmembers are re-elected for our safety. "

    For your info Asst Chief wrote on Aug 28, 2007 3:19 PM:

    " For anyone who thinks an education does not have value. The following is from Firehouse Magazine. "The fire service and higher education: occupation vs. profession; The fire service has evolved from an occupation into a profession that demands complex skills, abilities and knowledge acquired in academic settings.(HIGHER EDUCATION)" April 2006 "

    I think wrote on Aug 28, 2007 2:25 PM:

    " The person who said "shut the hxxl up" may be another uneducated person. If you have Firefighting stickers all over your vehicle and wear nothing but FF t-shirts on your days off you need to back up that image and go to college, learn your equipment and skills. Take some pride. "

    ex-ff wrote on Aug 28, 2007 12:26 PM:

    " things have really changed alot at the fire station. hopefully, things can change for the better since alot of good employees have moved on to other ventures. "

    Comment wrote on Aug 28, 2007 10:27 AM:

    " According to "careerprospects.org" (Firefighters)"Typically advances first to engineer, then lieutenant, captain, battalion chief, assistant chief, deputy chief, & finally to chief. Advancement beyond battalion chief often requires a bachelor’s degree." "

    wfd resident wrote on Aug 28, 2007 10:21 AM:

    " "To FF" yes you are in a uproar, I come from a time when manners meant something, and especially work place and public manners, your manners were clearly forgotten and quite frankly embrassing for you. As I said, firefighters should always maintain a sense of calm, and a sense of command, you lost it, and your comments clearly represent that. Your comments only made the departartment look even more disfunctional and didn't do anything for the new image that the district would like to present. For our districts firefighter to actually state "shut the hell up", thats embarrassing and shameful! "

    concerned wrote on Aug 28, 2007 9:36 AM:

    " Maybe if a person wants to be a true professional and wear the badge with pride they will get the qualifications of a professional (Certifications and a Masters degree) "

    Dan wrote on Aug 28, 2007 9:00 AM:

    " If anybody new were to come in to WFD now, I think that the other firefighters there have such a bad attitude it would be disheartening. You have the know-it-alls there, who know everything you can't tell them anything because they know-it-all, and then the brown nosers to Jon, alot of division was created by this, there was alot of talking bad behind peoples back by one officer there. The thinking and attitudes need to change. No one with any real experience and education would be welcomed. I know why most of the people left, theres no sense unity there. "

    firefighter wrote on Aug 28, 2007 8:37 AM:

    " Maybe Whetstone Fire District should not have any officer and just firefighters or just let HCFD and FRY Fire District take over the area. The reason given for the EX-Chief's firing was lack of performance not a lack of training. Jon will be getting more certs. Jon performance has been good, but will only get better with more training. For now he is the best that WFD has for the Asst Chief spot. Somebody has to lead the other firefighters and member to keep them safe. If any qualified firefighter/officer would like the job come on in. "

    Comment wrote on Aug 28, 2007 8:20 AM:

    " There are people who will go out and build a shelf and think that they are a better employee than the employee who read a book and accomplished something that will benefit the community for many years. This kind of mentality is what keeps an organization from advancing. "

    unknown wrote on Aug 28, 2007 8:15 AM:

    " The problem with the WFD is that they do not appreciate good employees when they get them. There have been several good employees who have not been retained due to the management not having the ability to see a good employee. A prime example is Dave a former employee who did more for the Fire District in a few years than any of the managers have ever done. "

    Facts wrote on Aug 27, 2007 8:06 PM:

    " The Asst Chief was promoted to his position by the Ex-Fire Chief. It was not done because he earned it or was qualified. She simply appointed him. "

    firefighter wrote on Aug 27, 2007 7:17 PM:

    " I worked a fire with Jon right after Therese was fired the first-time, he did a good job, he did alot of thinking and for his first fire on his own he did good, yes he does need some fine tuning but that will come with his certification, I suggest to Jon, do what was suggested in here earlier, contact Ft. Huachuca for your certs. get them all done, they are computer based so you can work at your own speed, and if you need help, just ask. Get your IFSTA certs behind you and you can take them anywhere. "

    resident wrote on Aug 27, 2007 6:02 PM:

    " I don't think a educated person would be accepted at WFD, after all to some of the fire fighters there, education doesn't mean anything. It's to bad that they don't recognize that fire takes on many aspects,it is a science, thats why fire-fighters go for that fire science degree, and hands on experience and intense training. A fire fighter can't learn everything hands on, I know I wouldn't want them to figure out that "oops, maybe on the next house fire we should do something else". Alot of fire-fighters worked hard for that degree and they all can't be wrong. "

    FF wrote on Aug 27, 2007 3:08 PM:

    " Response to "wfd resident wrote on Aug 27, 2007 12:07 PM" I'm not in an uproar as you may think. You know that Jon has strong Firefighter skills but everyone has good and bad points. His good points are that he has good fire skills, he has a good work ethic, and he's always there but. His bad points is hes not an innovative thinker. He would rather build or fix something than to learn something that everyone will benifit from. "

    FireFighter wrote on Aug 27, 2007 12:41 PM:

    " If WFD raised their standards,cleaned the station, kept the vehicles clean, kept up a professional appearance, than they would draw in good qualified firefighters, instead of the wannabes, let alone actually pass a real combat challange, the only physically fit person there is a reserve at S.V.F. but thats because they have standards also. For someone dedicated it isn't all about money, it's about the job and what it does and what you do. I would rather take a low paying job I love than a high paying I hate. "

    wfd resident wrote on Aug 27, 2007 12:07 PM:

    " to WFD Firefighter: Your conduct seems less than honorable by your comments, I thought a firefighter was supposed to stay calm and collected in extreme situations, and just a few postings has gotten you all in a upraor. Good image your projectng there! Maybe you can't handle a little stress? If this is how you sound because of a few peoples opinion, than how are we people of the community supposed to count on you in a real emergency? How are you on a fire? Can you even make it through a whole fire without breaking down? Great conduct there. "

    Fire Fighter wrote on Aug 27, 2007 11:17 AM:

    " to firefighter and Resident: If you want to do some research do it right, Jon can go to Ft. Huachuca to the ED Center and the Fire Chief, and find out how to get his IFSTA Certifications for free, Jon will only have to go to Ft. Huachuca to test out on his certs. and to do his practicals he may have to go to Ft. Huachuca/S.V Fire/Fry and he won't even have to take time off from work he can schedule around his days off. Know your resources in your area. Most Officer and firefighters do. "

    Research wrote on Aug 27, 2007 10:45 AM:

    " Response to "firefighter wrote on Aug 27, 2007 7:48 AM": I was merely stating the lengths of the classes. Now, do you really think that an educated scholarly type would really be accepted at this Fire Department. "

    WFD Firefighter wrote on Aug 27, 2007 10:41 AM:

    " Jon has been doing a good job considering all that has gone on. He was always there when he ex-chief wasn't. Everyone is different though, his and the ex-chief's personality is not the college type. I dont think there is anything wrong with this as long as they know what to do at an emergency scene. They like to work with their hands more. "

    FF wrote on Aug 27, 2007 10:29 AM:

    " To firefighter-It's (app.) and with 21 years of experience(?), he has had ample time to get his career in order. I understand you worship the ground Jon walks on, but, he has no more education there than any of the other firefighters, and less people skills, and didn't Therese say she had over 20 years experience? She didn't do to well with her knowledge-experience. Jon is starting to sound like Therese, and his friends instead of encouraging him to better himself, are starting to sound like Thereses friends. Some firefighters will pay for their education if it' important to them. "

    FF wrote on Aug 27, 2007 10:20 AM:

    " Jon stated he always wanted to be nothing more than asst. chief, if that is the case he should have been working towards that goal. There are many on-line classes that he could take through cochise college and he should contact S.V. and Ft. Huachuca for the proper classes in leadership/fire/officer/inspector. Jon may have some knowledge, but lets face it, it's still only the basic knowledge that any firefighter anywhere with a few years experience has, and most who have been on the job longer than him, have more! Jon should know his resources! Most Asst. Chiefs do. "

    Current Firefighter WFD wrote on Aug 27, 2007 9:19 AM:

    " To all the people that don't know Jon and his work ethics and what he is trying to do, shut the hell up! Jon is working at getting the classes that he needs, but our training budget is limited, and has to be divided up amongst all the members of the district, and now because of the recall election, we will have even less funds. Jon is smart and dedicated, and I would have no problems trusting his judgement on the fireground or any other time. Let him keep doing the good job that he is doing. "

    firefighter wrote on Aug 27, 2007 7:48 AM:

    " To I did some research. Do you want the Asst. Chief job? I don't believe the current Asst Chief as ever left his post for any reason. He as always goes the extra mile. Maybe now he can take some more training. I hope the district will allow him the funds needed to get the right classes or maybe he will go back to being just a firefighter with no more headaches. Why don't you ask the current firefighters that work under him what they think. "

    firefighter wrote on Aug 27, 2007 7:40 AM:

    " Let's remember that WFD has only 3 Paramedics. 1 for each shift. Getting coverage is hard sometimes. Soon WFD will be down to 2 Paramedics to work all the shifts. I hope Jon can find some online classes or coverage for more training. I like how some poeple like to point fingers about all the problems, but I don't see any of them at the front door to take a job. If you want the Chief or Asst. Chief put in a apt. "

    firefighter wrote on Aug 27, 2007 7:34 AM:

    " Jon doesn't have the right classes to hold tha Asst. Chief position, but no one at WFD does. Jon has 21 years of basic firefighter and has been doing a good job with out the classes for officer. If he is given the chance to take some officer classes he could be even better. Keep up the good work, but try to get some needed classes. Remember you will never be able to please everyone. Keep everybody safe and keep training. "

    Cochise County FF wrote on Aug 26, 2007 11:52 PM:

    " I had no idea that Jon only had the qualifications for a basic fire fighter, this amazes me and concerns me in the fact I know other fire fighters who have alot more past experience and education, and they are still basic fire fighters/emt's/medic. I know emt's who have more certs than Jon and alot more years of actual hands on experience! To know that some one can become an chief/asst. chief with next to no real education and hands on training amazes me and makes me realize why WFD has so many problems-no one there knows any better "

    Kerry wrote on Aug 26, 2007 9:29 PM:

    " The board needs to look at ALL who done wrong, yes Therese was ultitaley resposible for what needed done. But Jon and Chuck went to board meetings and should have brought all these wrongs to light, even IF Therese didn't want too. They should have been duty bound, but it took all of them to fail the district. Jon is no-where near qualified to be asst. chief just like Therese was not qualified to be chief. If Jon's serious about his position then he won't have any problems bettering himself to be above just a basic firefighter. "

    Resident wrote on Aug 26, 2007 8:39 PM:

    " Everyone talks about an education as if you go and buy one at the store. If he doesnt have a degree, he is looking at 4-6 years to obtain one for what he is doing. That is if he goes to school full-time which is unlikely for Firefighter who works full-time. So, really he is looking at like 8-10 years half-time. A real degree is about 120 credits with classes being about 3 credits. Thats 40 classes without counting the classes some people take to get to the classes they need to gradute. So really its more like 130-140 credits. "

    What I think wrote on Aug 26, 2007 8:09 PM:

    " Continued.....In this case it may be a lower paying job so he is able to get away without having a degree. For the community's sake it would be better to raise a Chiefs pay and raise the qualifications also. What is the point of paying half the pay for an employee with low qualifications? Why not pay the employee well and get the best qualified person too. Continued...... "

    What I think wrote on Aug 26, 2007 8:02 PM:

    " If you notice people with no degree always say that a degree is not important and defend others who dont have one. The converse is also true. Now, we must examine what is the importance of a degree in the fire service. If youre at an emergency scene a degree is not as important as the fire/ems training. Now if youre in a management position such as Chief it is very important to have a degree due to the business and managerial nature of the job. Continued........ "

    resident wrote on Aug 26, 2007 7:51 PM:

    " To Research, no matter how you want to slice it, it's still all the basics for a firefighter. If Jon is really wanting to stay Asst. Chief, he will further himself with a good education. As was stated and now can come back at WFD this can be a liability issue, and Jon can't say he wasn't aware he should have a education.Education teaches a person how to look at things a in a more anylitical way, reguardless of how some people think at WFD, proper officer/inspector certs.Would only better the district and Jon, People Skills/proper manners a PLUS "

    FFMike wrote on Aug 26, 2007 7:43 PM:

    " It took more than one person to fail the department/community, It wasn't just Thereses failure to get the department up to standards, I would have to say it was all the officers, Jon and Chuck, If (and they both should have)known that the department was out of compliance and failed to act. Then it wasn't just Therese, They should all take responsibility for their failed actions, and if the knew and didn't say anything, Why? were they incapable to articulate or were they to afraid to say something? Either way, it seems just wrong to blame Therese for everything! "

    James wrote on Aug 26, 2007 6:47 PM:

    " Jon and Chuck have done a great job, no-ones disputing that, It's that with the microscope really on Whetstone, Jon needs to step up a little more, Therese was fired for having only the basics also,(along with her other failures), who's to say that Jon won't be next, most poeple here are only giving Jon some constructive critisism, I am sorry if some people take offense with the district really getting up to-date. I know that WFD is going to go through some major changes and Jon really needs to keep up, he can't use Therese' excuses to. "

    T wrote on Aug 26, 2007 4:42 PM:

    " Lets face it, at any other department, a person with those qualifications would only be a entry level Firefighter. Stay in school. "

    Research wrote on Aug 26, 2007 4:31 PM:

    " I did some research and found the lengths of the classes. FF 1-2(1 semester), EMT cert (1 semester), Wildland (8 days), HazmatFRO (4 days), Paramedic (9-12 months), Fire School-confrences,etc (1 day-1 week). Lets get the facts straight here people! "

    Question 1 wrote on Aug 26, 2007 4:20 PM:

    " How can someone go from a Volunteer Firefighter to full-time for 2 years and then to Asst Chief? And all of this without the proper education and managerial skills? If this is how the fire service promotes than it need to be looked at. "

    Daniel Patrick wrote on Aug 26, 2007 4:16 PM:

    " Im not real sure if the education for the Asst Chief would make a real big difference, One step at a time. It would be better to start with a classes on how to treat and talk to employees without offending them. Also, how to appreciate emmployees too. "

    County Firefighter wrote on Aug 26, 2007 4:12 PM:

    " Jon has done a good job, but someone brought up a good point, if Therese was a failure, what makes Jon better.They are supposed to work together, what-one doesn't think of the other should.Did Jon just let Therese Fail? Did he just stand by and let things go down hill?Why didn't he step up to the plate and take to Therese AND the board any deficencies that the department had? Why didn't he do all that he could to better the department? He has done a good job as a basic firefighter. But I just don't everything was Thereses Fault. "

    AZFFCEP wrote on Aug 26, 2007 4:03 PM:

    " I agree with "Kevin" you have the basics down, my crew has all of those along with quite a few other certifications. Go ahead and get more education you never know some one with your experience and more eduction may be in the picture someday and will take your job. "

    Kevin wrote on Aug 26, 2007 9:36 AM:

    " Great job Jon, you have the basics down, but what about trying to further your education. I know Whetstone doesn't have the call volume to really keep on skills. What kind of call volume and hands on experience have you really had. I hope for the districts best interest that IF you truly are serious about being the assistant chief than further your education. Get the Officer/Inspector Certifications, I have looked into them for some of my co-workers. they take more than a couple of days and require real testing, but if your really knowledgable, it'll be easy for you. "

    wondering wrote on Aug 25, 2007 11:26 PM:

    " Jon If after all that time,why haven't you become more than a basic firefighter? I work with other firefighters in the county who have real certificates instead of weekend classes? and they are just firefighters/medics. To be a real asst. chief more than the basics are needed to improve the district. there are alot of resources out there, to help you obtain the proper credentials. It's great your family is in fire, but that don't really mean anything in todays sue happy world, not when experience but education/certification can literally save the district. no-one meant to hurt your feelings "

    DL wrote on Aug 25, 2007 11:03 PM:

    " The board terminated the Chief but should of also let go of the Asst Chief. A Chief and Asst Chief should be looking at all aspects of the fire department like operations, training, legal matters,employee morale and many other things. That was not done by the Chief and the Asst, it was easier for that person to perform the duties of a Firefighter and do "hands-on" tasks then to buckle down and do some reading and research on new innovative ideas. Because its a growing department the more reason to be be creative "

    firefighter wrote on Aug 25, 2007 8:56 PM:

    " I'm glad Jon got the basics down, and after so many years I would hope that if he is serious about his position he gets a real degree behind his name other than Basic Firefighter/Medic. Trauma conferance and AZ State Fire School, are just a couple of days and mainly they are just an FYI, for CE's pretty much, I would hope that jon gets an education! "

    FF wrote on Aug 25, 2007 8:37 PM:

    " My opinion is that a college education is not the answer by itself, a quality officer will have a college education, hands on experience, fire/ems classes and good management skills. If you add these 4 things you will get the most complete Officer. The management skills will come with experience and with the college classes on management. I encourage the Asst Chief to persue an education, that is if he wants to retain his job in the long run. "

    FF wrote on Aug 25, 2007 8:24 PM:

    " I dont know the Whetstone Asst Chief, but I know that at some Fire Departments you have to have a Master's degree to be Chief, a Bachelors to be a Captain, and an Associate to be an Engineer. This is in addition to all of the other classes that the Asst Chief mentioned. It appears that Whetstone is a small rural department so they have different requirements for their officers. Continued........ "

    resident wrote on Aug 25, 2007 8:21 PM:

    " Jon - Glad you spoke up to get the facts out to the folks in Whetstone. We are all very proud of the things you and Chuck are doing for the dept even when everyone it looking at you under a microscope! Keep up the great job and keep you head held high! College does not make the man, the integrety, character and commitment make the man!!! "

    Donna wrote on Aug 25, 2007 7:28 PM:

    " Isn't there real officer classes available? That require real class time and real effort? From what I understand from asking around, that the real officer classes actually take time, and require alot of effort. Trauma Conferance is nice and informable thats it, basic wildland is that basic, and just because a person has alot of "experience" doesn't mean they know it all, knowledge comes from not only hands on but real education as well. I think that the other agencies would respect WFD more if there were real creditials behind a person than you getting the job by default. "

    resident wrote on Aug 25, 2007 7:23 PM:

    " I think some of the people are saying is that Asst. Chief of Whetstone should have more than a few certificates from 2,3, or 4 day classes anyone in the fire service knows this, All your classes are what basic firefighters do. If you are serious about your position and the community, the proper education as well as hands on would benifit everyone in the community and fire department. It's nice that you attend your 2, or 4 day classes but real fire science comes from more than a crash course in the basics. Good Job though for trying! "

    firefighter wrote on Aug 25, 2007 5:51 PM:

    " So still your done going after the former chief Therese, now you want to go after the Asst Chief. I would go to any fire or EMS emergency with this Asst Chief. He has been alway been there when needed. When the former Chief has had family problems the Asst Chief has come to help. Even when he is off duty he will always come to help if needed. Keep up the good work. Dont worry about what other might say. "

    asstchiefwhetstone wrote on Aug 25, 2007 1:45 PM:

    " 2 Trauma conferences, the AZ state fire school for 4 years where I have taken conflict management training, leadership 1,2, and 3. I will be attending a rural managment training there this year. Also, I have taken advanced wildland S290 class, flammable liquids class in NV, NIMS training, and a paramedic refresher class. I hope to continue my training and learn everything I can to be the best medic,fire fighter,and officer that I can be no matter what department I am at. If you have any questions please feel free to contact me at the Whetstone fire department. "

    asstchiefwhetstone wrote on Aug 25, 2007 1:37 PM:

    " I became a Whetstone fire fighter July 2002. I then went on to get my paramedic license and became Lt. After Chuck left Therese was promoted to Chief, and I became Asst.Chief. It was a fast move up, I agree, however with a small department that happens frequently. I wanted to make sure that I continued my training so that I could support the community to the best of my ability. Since becoming the Asst. Chief I, in addition to other classes, have attended the followinig either in state or out of state: continued.... "

    asstchiefwhetstone wrote on Aug 25, 2007 1:31 PM:

    " I was with that department for 12 years until I moved to AZ, while there I attended and then later helped train at 5 fire explorer academies through out CA. When I moved here I started at Fry Fire were I attended the Fire Fighter 1 and 2 classes, went through their academy, and obtained my EMT license taught by Chuck Balke, basic wildland classes, and Haz-mat FRO class. Through talking with Chuck,who was Chief of Whetstone, I decided that the small community and the department's commitment to that community was where I wanted to be. continued... "

    asstchiefwhetstone wrote on Aug 25, 2007 1:22 PM:

    " Since my background has come into question I feel that I should respond not to defend myself but so the public has the proper information. While it is correct that I do not have a college degree I do agree that we should always continue training and advancing our knowledge. My grandfather, father, and brother were or are still firefighters. My father was Asst. Chief of a department in CA for 6 years. I have been around the fire service my entire life. I started as a junior volunteer at the age of 16. continued.... "

    whetstone resident wrote on Aug 25, 2007 10:50 AM:

    " chuck and jon are doing a great job with what they have accomplished in a short amount of time, they should be pround of themselves, but the bottom line is, that WFD is doing the best with what they have. there is room for improvements as there is at any fire department anywhere. Chuck stepped up to the plate and has done a great job, though he doesn't have the personality for Chief. "

    Cochise County Firefighter wrote on Aug 25, 2007 9:47 AM:

    " Knowledge comes in many forms, hands on, and proper education. If the Asst. Chief only has FF I&II and his paramedic, he has the same education level as any basic firefighter/medic in the county, for Whetstones best interest, if he is serious about his job, than further his education, ANY firefighter knows firfighting is always making advances in safety. Look at any Chief/Asst. Chief job description and find what is required besides hands-on experience. The reason for more education is not only firefighter safety, but district liablity issues as well. There is always room for proper education besides hands-on experience! "

    Resident wrote on Aug 25, 2007 8:36 AM:

    " Yes I know what thier education is. Chuck has been furthering his education at Cochise College and working hard and doing a good job. Asst. Chief has fire I&II and his paramedic. Although hands on is good education, further fire education and proper credentials would really help the fire department in the long run, especially if something went to court. Both Chuck and Jon are doing a great job in the face of some hard times. But the station still has room for improvement, and if Asst. Chief is serious he would further his education for the communities sake-safety. "

    who are you wrote on Aug 24, 2007 5:11 PM:

    " To voter and DL, who are you to say that the interim chief and asst. chief don't want or know how to do it right. It seems to me that both of them are working very hard and doing a good job. Maybe you should get a clue and look at facts, not make accusations about something you obviously know NOTHING about. Do acually know what their education levels are. "

    Resident wrote on Aug 24, 2007 4:47 PM:

    " To those referring to education and knowledge, feel free to come down to the station and view the education and trainings of the Chief and Asst. Chief.and any other employee. We are all extremely knowledgable and highly educated as you will clearly see. Leadership does not just come from reading books, it also comes from hands on experience and life skills. "

    Jamie wrote on Aug 24, 2007 4:19 PM:

    " I don't think Therese did the job to the best of her ability, I don't think the asst. chief did either, neither one has the right background or experience or mentality to do get the job done the right way. Things are going in a better direction now, Rick only pointed out the departmeent wasn't in compliance, and Chuck came in and made a few simple phone calls and got the ball rolling, Things are going good, Therese and Cleo don't have the communities best interest at heart. "

    voter wrote on Aug 24, 2007 8:54 AM:

    " I agree we need a real chief and asst chief, we need real leadership with people who know how to do it and want to do it right. We need an asst. chief who is educated and knowledgble. Keep Rick he did right by the department. "

    DL wrote on Aug 24, 2007 8:17 AM:

    " these arguments about rick and therese are getting ridiculous. she is gone, now we need to vote him out and then get a real chief and asst chief. "

    To Funny Woman wrote on Aug 23, 2007 6:42 PM:

    " Why are you still obsessing about Rick and what he drives? Don't you have something better to do to positively contribute to the community other than be negative and embarassing the community some more with some of your so-called facts and imagined wrong doings? You don't even take the time to get the facts or even ASK the RIGHT people about what is going on and why? "

    resident wrote on Aug 22, 2007 10:53 PM:

    " to just wandering - you have a great idea! Chuck is doing a great job, but do not know if we can influence him to take the job, might be worth a try. Give him a call and ask him and let us know! Mark your calenders the next board meeting is this Tuesday @ 6pm, Aug 28 "

    resident wrote on Aug 22, 2007 10:38 PM:

    " If Rick wanted Huachuca city to take over WFD the best way that could happen is if he would have let Therese continue to faulter. But lets look at this realistically, there is not way in you know what that Huachuca City is going to annex us, take over our fire dept or any other such nonsense. So why is this an issue with the Cleo and Therese group. Hmm maybe to divert our attention from the fact they support Therese and this recall is truely retaliation. "

    resident wrote on Aug 22, 2007 10:33 PM:

    " funny man - what is the deal with the vehicle? If Rick were a sheriff he would be driving a sheriff's car, he is on call when he drives that vehicle, would you want him to have to run to the city yard in Huchuca City to get the vehicle and then run to the fire? Again illogical thinking. You really do need to get off this Huachuca City, Rick, vehicle thing and really start to look at what is best for Whetstone, so far I have not heard anything about what you will do for the community. "

    resident wrote on Aug 22, 2007 10:29 PM:

    " funny man - if you think Whetstone is influenced by Huachuca City, by one man (rick) then you are insulting all of the residents of Whetstone. I am a free thinking citizen of the community and have been active in community affairs for many years. Never have I seen or heard of one person being able to influence Whetstone! If that is the case then your vote will not count as (rick) will be able to influence everyone. What illogical thought process. "

    To Funny Man wrote on Aug 22, 2007 9:21 PM:

    " Mutual Aid was not given back to WFD immediatly after Therese was fired. After the firing of Therese the firefighters have been training daily to become better firefighter's and EMS provider's for the community. We asked for help and H.C.F.D. was available to help. H.C. and Whetstone need to work together for the safety of the community. With Chuck's and Jon's help WFD will become a team. "

    funny man wrote on Aug 22, 2007 5:56 PM:

    " If mutual aid or automatic aid was not given to WFD immediatly after the firing of therese then what was HC fire doing at the fire that occured behind the fire station? "To funny woman" you need to get your facts correct! Whetstone will not be influenced by H.C.! Whetstone is independent no matter who's vehicle a certain board member drives. "

    Tell Me wrote on Aug 22, 2007 4:06 PM:

    " Is there any way to find out who these eight people running are and do we get the opportunity to say who the final four will be or is it completely up to Cleo and Therese to decide the fate of the Fire Department. Maybe Cleo would be kind enough to answer the question so we can start researching the candidates ourselves. "

    Think about this wrote on Aug 22, 2007 3:58 PM:

    " Some people would like us to believe that Rick is not looking out for the best interest of Whetstone. Is he not the one that pushed the issue about the deficienties. I think that is looking out for the people of Whetstone and based on his actions he has earned the right to remain as a boardmember. Why get ride of the one that questioned the level of standards and took actions to correct the deficiencies. "

    Get Serious wrote on Aug 22, 2007 3:54 PM:

    " To resident. What an Idea. Replace everyone at the fire department with new people that don't know anything about emergency service. What a great idea about cleaning house and starting over. Let me guess you would bring back Therese as an administrator and Cleo and her assistant and her family as the staff. "

    resident wrote on Aug 22, 2007 10:36 AM:

    " Oh Just clean house and lets start over! "

    Debbie wrote on Aug 22, 2007 9:54 AM:

    " I don't think that WFD got into compliance overnight as suggested by "Funny" I think that the point is Chuck at least attempted to get the department into compliance. "

    Just wondering wrote on Aug 22, 2007 9:32 AM:

    " Does anyone know why Chuck left the first time and why he is not interested in the permanent position. It seems to me that he has a genuine concern for the community. Maybe we should ask him what it would take to consider the job. Especially if he is done such a good job now and knows the community "

    Know the Facts wrote on Aug 22, 2007 9:16 AM:

    " I think if stories are going to be published the facts need to be researched a little more carefully. Crediting these two for "all" the progress the department made over the years is a crime against all the people that provided the help to accomplish the good things. How can they be credited with starting the fire department when they were not even part of it when it did start. Again I remember who was here when it began "

    To Funny Woman wrote on Aug 22, 2007 9:09 AM:

    " I talked with a firefighter after Therese was fired and asked if Bob was going to give back mutual aid now-he said--no, Bob wants to wait and see if WFD start training and working better together and if our firefighters are able to conduct themselves on scene in a professional way first. I think your facts are twisted and apparently you believe everything that some people tell you, Because I asked Bob if mutual aid was given back automatically and he said no, so is a WFD firefighter and Bob both lying, I don't believe so. I believe you are. "

    To Funny Woman wrote on Aug 22, 2007 9:03 AM:

    " Still obsessing over Rick and Bob? You may like to imagine the worst in other people, but in my dealings with them, they were both honest and helpful, If Bob is so dishonest then how come so many of the chiefs in the county, think he is honest to? I think you do need help, mental help, as you don't seem happy in life. The board and WFD are doing the best they have in years, WFD has a positive influance now. It took Chuck only a few calls to start getting into compliance-which was to hard for Therese. "

    resident wrote on Aug 21, 2007 10:25 PM:

    " Dorathy - the disgust that you should have is not for the residents of Whetstone, but for Therese and Cleo for making this a front page headline and airing the dirty laundry hoping for community support. What they did not realize is some folks could see Therese was not the manager to lead the WFD. No one has degraded the men and women serving the community, they are doing a great job and with good leadership will only do a better job. The board is being degraded because the felt a change was needed in the dept. "

    did my research wrote on Aug 21, 2007 10:03 PM:

    " to is it another violation - why do you not get the meeting minutes and read them yourself. Please yes look into any matters that you wish, you will not change the ruling of the county attorney no matter how hard you try to change it in your mind. I support the board and will vote to keep, along with the many friends, neighbors, residents and firefighters of the Whetstone area, the loyal members of the board in place. The WFD, WFD firefighters, and the WFD board are doing a great job! Thank you!! "

    resident20 wrote on Aug 21, 2007 9:50 PM:

    " funny how Therese was aware of the HC dispatch issue on the accident on March 17, but on March 27th when the board had their monthly meeting she made no mention (reference board meeting minutes) that she had any problems with the HC dispatch in here Chiefs report. She had full knowledge that the contract was up for renewal in July, but failed to let the board know of any problems and had not done any research to look at alternate dispatch to present to the board. So who is to blame if blame needs to be placed "

    Leroy wrote on Aug 21, 2007 9:46 PM:

    " The recall comes from Therese being fired, she has her friends and family who blindly agree with what she has done and is doing. Therese at this point does not have the communities best interest in mind. This is an embarrassment, and she should be ashamed and so should Cleo. The district is finally pulling together and working hard, and most importantly TOGETHER! why does Therese want to ruin that now? Therese and Cleo should be ashamed of themselves!! "

    funny man wrote on Aug 21, 2007 7:22 PM:

    " to W.R.- Did WFD get up to standards with training and leadership over night? Apparently so cause once Therese was fired Bob gave Automatic aid to WFD. Now I dont care how good you are you cant correct all the problems that this Rick says occuered under Therse overnight. Bob cancelled mutual aid for one reason to influnce who he wants as Whetstones Fire Chief. Whetstone voters should decide not Bob! "

    funny man wrote on Aug 21, 2007 6:55 PM:

    " to resident- Has Bob always been an admirable and honest man? What happened to his mayorship, wasn't he once mayor of H.C.? How did that work out? If this Rick is as admirable and honest as Bob then we better keep a good watch on him. This is Whetstone not H.C. Bob may influence all that happens in H.C. but he wont determine what happens in Whetstone. Whetstone voters will decide Whetstones fate! "

    voter wrote on Aug 21, 2007 5:39 PM:

    " Cleo comes to her first meeting with Therese and accuses the board of not doing their jobs, asks for resignations from everyone but Jerry,(WHO didn't vote to fire Therese)and she actually wants everyone to believe this isn't about anything other than therese being fired.Cleos conducts an embarrassment of the Whetstone community. The finger pointing at the board, the minute minding is all retaliation, what do you want to bet that Therese, and her family wouldn't even think recall if Therese was still chief. "

    Dorathy wrote on Aug 21, 2007 4:30 PM:

    " You people disgust me the Whetstone Fire Department has always been a excellent department. Many residents owe there lifes to the brave men and women that have served WFD. From the time it was just an all volunteer department till now. I cant remember a time when they have failed the community. Many feel they have to degrade the people serving to defend the boards mistakes. What will it be next that this board is needed in the war on terrorism? We have heard these scare tactics before. They wont work here! Whetstone is and always has been safe! "

    Just a Suggestion wrote on Aug 21, 2007 2:59 PM:

    " Chuck seems to be the only one that is there for the community. If Cleo is picking and choosing candidates then maybe the community should ask chuck who he things would make a good candidate for new board members. That way there are two people picking the candidates and it wouldn't be so one sided. It's obvious Cleo is picking candidates based on whether or not they support Therese. "

    W.R. wrote on Aug 21, 2007 1:02 PM:

    " I haven't seen any real facts that support HC pulling mutual aid because of Rick Evans, I have been around along time and have heard the rumors that support Bobs decision, I can also see why Bob would continue to give mutual aid even though he really wasn't all that excited to do so. I can also understand enough is enough, I have heard that he will give back mutual aid when WFD is up to standards, training and adequate leadership! "

    Resident wrote on Aug 21, 2007 9:03 AM:

    " To Funny woman, I can't grasp why you have this un-natural obsession with Rick? what has he ever done? He pointed out that the district was extremely out of compliance, nothing more. And your obsession with HC, Bob, and dispatch? You only want to critisize the board and fire department, you don't sound as if you have the districts best interest at heart, you sound as if you are an unhappy person who only wants to fling false accusations, and some so-called facts just to try to make more trouble for the district? Why? "

    Resident wrote on Aug 21, 2007 8:55 AM:

    " To Funny "Man", I havent heard anybody state some of the false accusations the way you do, bottom line, Bob wanted to help the community reguardless of Therese' failure as a chief, thats the only reason why he kept mutual-aid, I wouldn't begin to put down Bob like you have, he has always been an admirable, honest man, when asked a question he will answer honestly, Rick has never had an impact on Bob, Bob just finally got fed up with the work that he witnessed while under Therese' direction. Bob should be thanked for being there to help! "

    funny man wrote on Aug 20, 2007 5:36 PM:

    " to resident- As for Rick I dont know the man so how could I be obsessed with him, and tell me what actions of mine have I failed to take responsibility for. You seem to know me and like to try to shift the blame for ations that this board has taken and blame them on others to defend this Rick. My actions did not keep the contract with H.C. the boards actions did this. I know how I will be voting come NOV 6, and trust me alot feel the same way as me! "

    funny man wrote on Aug 20, 2007 5:27 PM:

    " to resident- You talk as if you know me. I have never talked to Bob so I wouldnt know what he stated. I just know that it gives no reason why he backed out of the contract in his letter to terminate it. If Bob felt this way for years about Therese why did it take so long for him to terminate mutual aid then. Does Bob wait for years untill he makes a decision? Shouldn't a true leader make a decision once he is made aware of the problem. Or is this Rick pulling Bob's strings? "

    JLD wrote on Aug 20, 2007 5:02 PM:

    " "comment to fire" If you witnessed this then you should report it, everyone should be held up to ARS standards. Just try to remember were you witnessed this at, your memory seems pretty bad you cant say if it was at a bar or business or were exactly. Then every elector that signed the petition will be contacted to verify if indeed the person circulating the petition was present. Then the county will rule on whether it was a valid petition or the person objecting made a false report. If you did indeed witness a violation report it. "

    Jackie wrote on Aug 20, 2007 9:01 AM:

    " Dispatch problems, I would look at why there is dispatch problems, this isn't a fire department problem, just a dispatch problem, We do pay for a service,and we may have some problems but when Chuck says he has addressed them, Then they have been addressed. The problem goes to what exactly is the problem? Boundry confusion, Info given, along with a whole list of things that could be going on. The problem is not that the board actually went with Therese' recommendations or that this was budgeted in, It's that people want to point fingers at the board for anything! "

    Fire! again.. wrote on Aug 19, 2007 9:51 PM:

    " As I remember, I saw this petition laying on a table for signatures in a business or bar at or near Mustang Corners with nobody present to verify the signatures. Now I'm not an attorney, but ARS 19-112 clearly says that "Every qualified elector signing a petition shall do so in the presence of the person who is circulating the petition". Does that mean that some of these signatures could be totally bogus? Hmm. Cleo, comment? Sounds like some folks are eagerly quoting current Statutes here. Now I don't want to stir up the hive or anything... "

    Resident wrote on Aug 19, 2007 8:51 PM:

    " To Funny, another thing, there is problems with dispatch everywhere, not just here, some times when 911 is called wrong info is given among other things, The board is not to blame for dispatch problems and if Chuck said he took care of it, I believe him, and what other dispatch is there? County, as if they don't have enough, and possibly no 911 at all just call the fire department? Personally before that I would call the FD to make sure who was working first, it maybe better to go to HC and wait for Fry! "

    Resident wrote on Aug 19, 2007 8:46 PM:

    " To Funny, You really didn't listen to Bob when he stated why he cancelled mutual-aid, I understand comprehension may be a problem with some people but the reason was in black and white, Bob felt that Therese lacked leadership skills, skills he witnessed himself, he felt that Therese could possibly put his own people in danger.. Nothing Rick said made this happen, Bob has said for years that Therese was not chief material, long before Rick, but then again this goes back to your obsession with Rick, You fail to take responsibility for your own actions, so you blame others. "

    Dennis wrote on Aug 19, 2007 10:00 AM:

    " Cleo wants to put herself in charge on who and how to run for board-member? Is she trying to say that most people of Whetstone are to dumb to go to the county and figure it out? Or is she going to ask-Pro-Therese or Anit? Anti-O.K. you can't run. She is just as ignorant and clueless as Therese, It's amazing that two people can turn our fire department upside down and essentially mess with our pubic safety. "

    is it another violation wrote on Aug 18, 2007 8:19 PM:

    " To did my reasearch: You say that on May 8 executive session that a vote was taken to terminate Therese. But how can this be, ARS 38-431.03 executive sessions in subsection D states "Legal action involving a final vote or decision shall not be taken at an executive session". Was the termination legal or was yet another law violated due to the lack of knowledge by the current board? Thanks for your reasearch! This matter must be looked into. "

    Also Funny wrote on Aug 18, 2007 7:55 PM:

    " Mutual aid was cancelled for no given reason. That was the conditions of the contract, either side could backout with a time alotted notice to backout. Yet WFD keeps a contract with the Town of Huachuca City that pays HC dispatch to provide dispatching service to WFD. In 2 instances HC dispatch has failed to Provide the service that this contract specifies, and a third instance is being brought to light. Why does the WFD Board keep this contract isnt it money wasted. For this reason alone I feel the board needs to be replaced! "

    funny indeed wrote on Aug 18, 2007 7:46 PM:

    " Mutual aid between Huachuca City and Whetstone has been in place ever since McGriff was the fire chief at Huachuca City. I find it funny that it was canceled once a employee of Huachuca City became a WFD board member. Was there discussions about the WFD between this board member and the HCFD fire chief, "after all the board member works for the fire chief of H.C.". Why did the Huachuca City fire chief cancel this contract that has been in place for years? What information was passed on that terminated the contract and was it confidential information? "

    did my research wrote on Aug 18, 2007 12:23 AM:

    " On April 24, Therese was ask by Board how we were going to handle the loss of mutual aid with HC, she had no suggestion, except she would handle it. In this meeting she was also ask if she had followed up with the collection agency about the bad debt and new agency, she said she had not followed up. On May 8 executive session held on her termination Mary Foote, Rick Evans and Ken Leffler voted to terminate, Jerry Hopper was opposed. Funny if this is not about Therese, why did Jerry not get recalled. "

    did my research wrote on Aug 17, 2007 11:33 PM:

    " Fact 2 In the May meeting Cleo accuses Rick Evans of talking to Donna Tullester of Arizona Ambulance about Therese termination. Donna Tullester speaks from the crowd that there were no converstions of termination or dismissal of any kind.- accusations without proof. Read the minutes of the meeting. In this article she states she is unhappy with the way the board handled Therese termination, sounds like this is the reason for the recall! "

    did my research wrote on Aug 17, 2007 11:18 PM:

    " Fact 1 Cleo's first meeting was in May, Therese's termination meeting. At her first meeting she says (I would like all of the Board members to resign with the exception of Jerry Hopper. If not you have a choice to get recalled by the citizens here based on not doing their jobs in the way it was presented.) She then hands out recall petitions. - If you have not been to any previous meetings how do you know if the board has not represented the best interest of the constituents or is unresponsive as the recall petitions states. "

    tired wrote on Aug 17, 2007 6:21 PM:

    " Iam tired of hearing about Cleo, Therese and Rick. Cleo has done her job and united the community for the recall. Therese has done her job for the fire department and she is no longer needed there. Rick wont be around after Nov. 6, "but lets all keep on eye on him till then". Once the new board is in place they can select a Qualified Fire Chief to run the department. "

    Resident wrote on Aug 17, 2007 5:55 PM:

    " If you call the recall is democracy in action then I am sorry I disagree. The recall is not factual base, no one can seem to come up with what charges the recall is based. Trumped up charges with not facts to back them up is not democracy it is called slander. If one of the people who signed the recall would come forward and tell us what the board did to warrant the slanderous charges that they were accused of in the petition then maybe we would not feel so hostile to the recall! "

    JLD wrote on Aug 17, 2007 5:48 PM:

    " How much competence does it take to be on the board. The current board can't even follow simple procedures that they should know. Competence wont play a factor in this election. Popularity will be the deciding factor, the current board is unpopular and the community seems to want a change. Isnt America Great! "

    Stay away from the koolaid wrote on Aug 17, 2007 12:59 PM:

    " Folks STAY AWAY FROM THE KOOL-AID. People can and are entiltled to campaign for and vote for there candidate of chouce. Personal attacks and speculation are crazy to say the least. "

    In Response to "Politics 101" wrote on Aug 17, 2007 12:04 PM:

    " They may be "well organized", but the problem is going to be finding 4 out of the 8 that are competent to be a board member. "

    another resident wrote on Aug 17, 2007 11:38 AM:

    " Lets keep the ex-chief off the board. things are progressing just nicely with the unproductive people gone from the fire department. Good point "Fire". I really think this is a gender driven issue for Cleo. "

    politics 101 wrote on Aug 17, 2007 9:50 AM:

    " wow I commend these eight people who want to run and would sit down and decide who the best four canidates are. After all in a primary doesnt the gop and the dem party do the same thing not to split the votes. It seems the ones being recalled have no chance. This recall seems to be well organized. This is american democracy in action. I wonder how many votes any of the ones being recalled got when they were elected. Sorry my bad most were never elected, yet some call this interrfering with the democratic process. "

    Fire! wrote on Aug 16, 2007 8:58 PM:

    " If she was a poor manager, she was responsible, the board had every right to fire her in the best interest of public safety. Ah, Remember public safety? A procedural oversight without malice or harm doesn't change that. The circus in Whetstone and Huachuca City is always entertaining. If Cleo's real motive is to protect the process, and real violations did occur, my hat is off to her. If she's a friend of a friend or it's a gender driven issue that's another story and just another special interest local spinzone. I can't wait to see how this plays out! "

    Resident wrote on Aug 16, 2007 7:17 PM:

    " Lajeunesse is now picking up the packets for the people who are going to run(see the article above), will she be out getting the signatures for them also? The puppeteer in motion. Oh it only take 5 signatures to run so I guess the 8 can all sign each others form. Who would want to vote for someone who has no motivation to even pick up thier own packetts. "

    vote no wrote on Aug 16, 2007 7:02 PM:

    " It used to be that when you submitted a recall petition, it contained the name of the individual to run against the individual being recalled. What if no one signs up to run? Money wasted. Hope Whetstone residents are smart enough to leave well enough alone. "

    WFD Firefighter wrote on Aug 16, 2007 2:49 PM:

    " What their posse is doing is trying to rally up the best candidates from the bunch of family and freinds that signed the petition for recall on the ex-chief's side. "

    be open minded wrote on Aug 16, 2007 10:56 AM:

    " Personal attacks get nothing accomplished. Make decisions off facts. "

    WFD Firefighter wrote on Aug 16, 2007 9:43 AM:

    " The paragraph about what Therese accomplished is misleading. She is taking credit for things she did not do. Please dont be misled. "

    resident wrote on Aug 16, 2007 9:06 AM:

    " you all have my blood boiling at this. What a crock! If Therese was not in complaince, she was the manager! Get off the Therese thing, she was a poor manager, the board had every right to fire her and they were within their duties to do so. Does not matter what the time frame was as Cleo said it should trickle down from the top and it may have taken the trickle longer because they were trying to get her to give her the opportunity to fix the areas of concern. "

    resident wrote on Aug 16, 2007 8:58 AM:

    " Is Cleo going to tell everyone who wants to run for WFD Board who they should run against? Does she not think this is interfering with the democratic process. Why would 8 people who are interested in running for the board want to converse between themselves to decide who the best 4 are. HMM what a plot this group is running, strange there are 4 seats being recalled! If you want to run for the position, have a mind of your own and run against the canditate you feel should be replaced, not just because Cleo tells you. "

    Geese! wrote on Aug 16, 2007 7:37 AM:

    " Great, give Cleo the soapbox she craves! Nice job Dana. What about the other side of the story? "

    Vote No wrote on Aug 16, 2007 6:50 AM:

    " If Cleo is involved in something think twice before following her lead "

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