In the Community
Working in the Community
The reason I first got into journalism was out of a desire to do something that was interesting and would help people. After nearly 10 years in radio and newspapers, I started in technology (at
MIS Week), seeing great potential in small computers to improve people's lives. I'm not sure that's entirely happened, so to hedge my do-gooder bet, I am also involved in a number of government and not-for-profit organizations.
Organizations I support:
San Mateo County Sheriff's Office -- For more than 15 years, I have been a member of the Sheriff's Communications Unit, which provides communications and logistical support to the department's Emergency Services Bureau and Search-and-Rescue team. I am a nationally-certified Emergency Medical Technician and SARTECH II, recognized by the National Association for Search and Rescue. I am also an American Heart Association and National Safety Council CPR and Basic Life Support instructor.
The current primary function of the Communications Unit is the operation of two brand-new $250,000 mobile command vans. The units were designed and the bid specs written by members of the unit. The vehicles are the primary command posts for search-and-rescue, SWAT, and other emergency operations. Unit members provide support for the Incident Commander.
My certifications include: NREMT-B, HazMat FRO, basic wildland firefighting, AHA BLS for Healthcare Provider instructor, ICS 100/200/700/800, SMSO Comm Unit training, SARTECH II, co-instructor FEMA PIO basic course, and others.
Amateur Radio Emergency Service -- I have been a licensed amateur radio operator since 1981. Throughout that time, I have been a member of the
Amateur Radio Emergency Service, which I currently serve as Emergency Coordinator for San Joaquin County. I am a life member of
ARRL, the national organization for amateur radio, and an FCC-certified
volunteer licensing examiner. Before moving to California, I spent many years as a SKYWARN tornado spotter in North Texas. My callsign is N5FDL. I have completed all three levels of the ARRL Amateur Radio Emergency Communications Course.
California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CalFIRE) -- I am a member of the Volunteers in Prevention program, participating in public education, inspection, communications, and other support services for the state fire department.
National Audubon Society -- In February, 2007, I was selected to attend a national training workshop which prepared volunteers to work with their local U.S. Representative to lobby on behalf of environmental protection issues. I am also a member of the
San Joaquin Audubon Society. My life list stands as a paltry 304.
