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April 2026
Inside: Sop by the LWR CERT booth at the Block Party, learn how you can tour a Hurricane Hunters aircraft, Be The One during the 2026 Giving Challenge and so much more!
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Every neighborhood has that one moment when someone says, “Wow, I wish I knew what to do right now.” Last month, it happened on The Masters Ave when a walker tripped in the street and fell. The walker was bleeding heavily. Before anyone could shout “call 911,” two neighbors were already on the scene—one controlling the bleeding, the other directing “traffic” (which consisted of one golf cart). Crisis on a typical Tuesday!
It was a small reminder that preparedness isn’t just for hurricanes and power outages. It’s for everyday moments when a little know‑how makes a big difference. Did you know that LWR CERT is putting AEDs in our community for just this type of everyday emergency? Reach out to LWR CERT to learn more.
As National Volunteer Week approaches, April 19–25, we are celebrating the spirit that keeps our community resilient. If you are just a “resident”, consider joining LWR CERT—you’ll learn useful skills and meet great people. And to all “CERTs”: we’d love to see you even more involved. Your community will need your energy, humor, and heart. We just don’t know when.
Jim Emanuelson (KN4VMK)
President, LWR CERT
941.404.8606
| | Stop by our booth at the 2026 LWR Block Party April 10 | | | | |
Join LWR CERT at the 2026 Lakewood Ranch Block Party Friday, April 10 as we continue celebrating our 20th anniversary and connecting with the community.
Enjoy live music, food, and Main Street fun while picking up some Hurricane Prep tips and hearing what CERT is all about.
We'll see you there!
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Mark your calendars now
Each unique donation to
LWR CERT up to $100
during the April 15-16
2026 Giving Challenge
will be matched 100%
by the Patterson Foundation
doubling your donation!
| | Click the graphic to visit our Giving page | | The Hurricane Hunters Are Coming to SRQ — Don’t Miss This! | | The tour is free and open to the public. Watch our May newsletter for details including the best places to park. | | |
This is a rare and unforgettable opportunity: the Hurricane Hunters aircraft and crew are coming to SRQ the afternoon of May 4.
You’ll have an opportunity to step inside the Hurricane Hunter aircraft, meet the pilots and flight crew, talk with forecasters, and see firsthand how these teams collect life‑saving storm data.
This is the kind of behind‑the‑scenes access most people never get.
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RECAP: Behind the Scenes at Manatee County EMS
by Kathie Neal
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Members of LWR CERT had the privilege of attending an engaging and informative presentation led by Jason Evans, District Chief of Manatee County Emergency Medical Services, March 24. The session offered a rare behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of one of our community’s most vital emergency response agencies.
A Legacy of Lifesaving Service
Chief Evans began by sharing not only his personal journey of becoming an emergency medical responder, but also the history of Manatee County EMS, which has grown alongside the rapid development of Manatee County. What started as a modest emergency transport service has evolved into a highly sophisticated, countywide system delivering both Advanced Life Support (ALS) and Basic Life Support (BLS). Today, the department is recognized for its professionalism, rapid response, and commitment to high-quality patient care.
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Comprehensive Emergency Services
The presentation highlighted the broad scope of services EMS provides. ALS units are equipped with advanced cardiac monitoring, airway management tools, and life-saving medications, while BLS units focus on essential stabilization and transport. Together, they form a coordinated system ensuring that every patient receives the appropriate level of care as quickly as possible.
Chief Evans also discussed specialized response teams that handle unique and high-risk situations, including mass casualty incidents, water rescues, and disaster response. These teams train extensively to remain ready for the unexpected – an effort that aligns closely with LWR CERT’s own mission of preparedness.
Innovation in the Field
One of the most fascinating parts of the presentation was the department’s embrace of innovation. Attendees learned about the EMS drone program, which can assist in scene assessment and search operations, as well as the Community Paramedicine initiative. This forward-thinking program focuses on preventive care, helping reduce repeat emergency calls by connecting patients with appropriate healthcare resources before emergencies arise.
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Strong Partnerships Save Lives
Manatee County EMS does not operate alone. Chief Evans emphasized the importance of partnerships with local hospitals and air medical transport providers. These collaborations ensure seamless patient care from the moment of dispatch through hospital admission, especially in critical situations where time is of the essence.
Inside the Operations Center
Members were given insight into the EMS operations center, the nerve center of emergency response. Here, dispatchers and coordinators manage incoming calls, deploy units, and track resources in real time. The level of coordination required is immense, and the technology supporting it is equally impressive.
The Human Side of EMS
Beyond the equipment and protocols, Chief Evans spoke about the people who make up the department. EMS personnel face high-stress, emotionally challenging situations daily. To support their mental health, the department has implemented wellness initiatives, including a PTSD support program featuring a specially trained therapy dog. This four-legged team member plays a meaningful role in helping responders decompress and maintain resilience.
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Tools of the Trade
The presentation also covered the advanced equipment carried by EMS crews. From state-of-the-art cardiac monitors and ventilators to specialized stretchers designed for safety and efficiency, every tool is selected to improve patient outcomes and provider safety. It was clear that continuous investment in technology is a priority for the department.
A Memorable Hands-On Experience
To cap off the event, attendees were invited outside Lakewood Ranch Town Hall for a close-up look at a fully equipped ambulance. This hands-on opportunity allowed members to see firsthand the tools and layout discussed during the presentation, bringing the entire experience full circle.
While we all hope never to need emergency medical services, understanding the capabilities and dedication of Manatee County EMS provides reassurance that our community is in excellent hands
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Thank you, George Jenckes, moderator; Paulette Kessler-Westerman producer and photographer; John Wilkey and Corrine Wagner for their help at the sign in desk; Mike Modisett, tech support specialist; Kathie Neal, Active Responder awards desk; Pam and Dave Charron, glove exchange; and Karen Emanuelson, publicity. The meeting was organized by Paulette Kessler-Westerman and Events Manager Gloria Schroeck.
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Help Make Your Neighborhood More Resilient
Basic Training Starts May 7
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With 254 trained volunteers serving 21 neighborhood teams, LWR CERT has built a strong foundation for readiness after storms in Lakewood Ranch Country Club, Country Club West, Edgewater, Greenbrook, Summerfield and Riverwalk neighborhoods—but many areas still need more hands, more skills, and more leaders.
This May, LWR CERT launches its next Basic Training class, and now is the time for you to register for one of the few remaining spots.
We encourage you to attend with family members and neighbors.
To learn more, visit www.lwrcert.org/join.
Together, we will grow our community stronger.
| | | Glen Lakes CERT offers April Basic Training | | CERT Train-the-Trainer Course | | |
Glen Lakes CERT and S2 Readiness Inc. are offering a CERT Train-the-Trainer course in May at the Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue Training Center, 6601 53rd Avenue West in Bradenton. The course will meet May 20 - 22 from 9 AM - 5 PM. Prerequisite: completion of CERT Basic Training (must provide proof of completion).
Registration and details at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/cert-train-the-trainer-tickets-1979922018054 Questions? Contact Steve Litschauer
| | Red Cross Smoke Alarm Installation Event - Volunteers Needed | | |
The Red Cross Disaster Cycle Services team, in partnership with the West Manatee Fire Department, is hosting a smoke alarm installation event to help keep our community safe on Saturday, April 18 from 8 AM to Noon at the Mount Vernon Condo Association, 4701 Independence Drive in Bradenton. Volunteers are requested to arrive by 7:30 AM.
Volunteers will assist with installing smoke alarms, providing fire safety education, and supporting preparedness outreach to residents. No prior experience is required—training will be provided on-site prior to deployment. The event supports the Red Cross ongoing mission to reduce home fire risk and improve safety awareness across the community.
To volunteer or learn more, contact Red Cross Community Disaster Program Manager Xavier Reeves at Xavier.Reeves@redcross.org or 813-541-0369.
| | Trailer Estates CERT Plans Drill and Hurricane Expo | | |
May 13 drill at 10 AM: Trailer Estates CERT team members will circulate their zones and report to the command center personal injuries, fires, power lines down, and home damage. The command center in the Activity Building will contact the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) for situation simulations.
May 26 Hurricane Expo at 5 PM: Trailer Estates and Glenn Lakes CERTs will combine efforts to hold a Hurricane Expo at the Bayshore Community Center, 6919 26th Street West, Bradenton. Different organizations will be represented with information and demonstrations from the fire department, sheriff's department, Centerstone and 11 others. Free and open to the public.
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Congratulations!!!
2026 Active Responder Award Winners
as of April 1, 2026
| | Radio Committee Holds Quarterly Test and Radio Programming Session | | Members of the LWR CERT Emergency Radio Communications Network (ERCN) held a test of the hubs Saturday, March 7. After a successful test, the members met at Town Hall to unpack, inventory, program and prepare the new long-distance, dual-band team radios for distribution at the upcoming Team Captain/Group Leader workshop. | |
April Birthdays
Happy Birthday to members David Cashbaugh (Team 25), Pam Charron (Team 22), Jim Curran (Team 32), Mike Defferding (Team 36), Upali Fonseka (Team 26), Bernie Fuersich (Team 36), Anthony Guiliano (Team 17), Hilary Harter (Team 35), James Hennigan (Team 1), Sebastian Ilka, Philippe Johnson (Team 13), Lahin Kahn (Team 2), Samuel Mallis (Team 8), Jack Mathews (Team 35), Jill Perlin, Richard Plotkin (Team 26), Warqaa Qasem (Team 10), Evelyn Ross (Team 8), Tina Stevens, Greg Stratakes (Team 9), Robert Thompson (Team 35), Rene Urra (Team 13), and Philip Westerman (Team 16)
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April Service Anniversaries
We are thankful for our volunteer members. These members are celebrating their Service Anniversary this month:
8 years - Samuel Acquaviva (Team 28), Ken Bertram (Team 20), Fran Mastrelli (Team 25), and Nigel Pilling (Team 28)
7 years - Annette Buhr (Team 27), Barbara Hickey (Team 32), Tom Hickey (Team 32), Deborah Jernigan (Team 35), Art Taber (Team 27), and Elizabeth Trencheny (Team 25)
4 years - Ray Arroyo (Team 17), Bruce Costella (Team 23), Sudi Hirmanpour (Team 25), Pam Kean (Team 35), Elena Markow (Team 13), Gary Miller (Team 32), Cindy Peirce (Team 13), Jill Perlin, Jordan Perlin, Michael Rogers (Team 13), Chris Sloane (Team 2), Andrew Williamson (Team 16), and Elaine Williamson (Team 16)
| | Upcoming LWR CERT Meetings and Events | | |
April
10 Lakewood Ranch Block Party at 6 PM at Lakewood Ranch Main Street
15-16 Giving Challenge noon to noon
Upcoming
May 4 Hurricane Awareness Tour with the Hurricane Hunters
May 7 Basic Training begins. Advance Registration Required.
June 2 Public Hurricane Prep event with National Weather Service at 7 PM. RSVP requested
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