Vancouver Public Schools’ (VPS) television studio nabbed its first-ever Northwest Regional Emmy at the 50th annual awards ceremony last Saturday. The studio’s Famous Scientist – Leonardo da Vinci segment beat out teams from Oregon Public Broadcasting; Idaho Public Television; and KING 5 Television of Seattle, in the Health/Science – Segment category.

“This award affirms our television studio’s commitment to producing interesting, informative shows of the highest quality for the VPS community and beyond,” says Steve Webb, superintendent of Vancouver Public Schools. “We are fortunate to have such talented professionals showcasing the work of our staff and students.”

Citizens desiring to learn more about the operation of East County Fire & Rescue (ECFR); interested in attacking a fire, using hydraulic rescue tools to tear cars apart, or assisting firefighters in efforts to save the life of a simulated cardiac arrest patient, are invited to attend the Fire District’s annual Citizen’s Fire & Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Academy this Saturday, June 22. The Academy runs from 8 a.m to 5 p.m at Fern Prairie Fire Station #91.

ECFR officers and firefighters will discuss the business-aspects of running a fire district; will provide instruction on how to use emergency equipment; and will supervise participants to provide a safe working environment during the drills. Participants should be at least 18 years of age, in good health, and in reasonably good physical condition. All safety gear will be furnished, but students need to bring their own lunch.

The Fire & EMS Academy is, mostly, a ‘hands-on’ activity. Participants should dress in ‘work’ clothes and plan to sweat. Liability releases will be required for all participants. Registration is on a ‘first-come-first-served’ basis (except that residents of the Fire District are given preference). For more information and to register, call 360-834-4908. Persons completing the Academy will be invited to an 8-hour ride-along with on-duty ECFR crews.

The Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA) has announced that the organization has partnered with the United States Association of Blind Athletes to host the 2013 National Goalball Championships in Vancouver from June 20 through 23 at McLoughlin Middle School, 5802 MacArthur Blvd, Vancouver. The event is free to attend, but guests will be asked to make an optional donation.

Goalball is a Paralympic sport played by individuals who are blind and visually impaired. Developed after WWII as a way to keep blinded veterans physically active, it has become the premiere team game for blind athletes. Played competitively by men and women, it is a very fast paced, physically challenging, strategic and exciting game.

The organization is also looking for individuals and groups to volunteer at the tournament. Interested parties can call Gina Ward at 360-448-7254. For more information and an event schedule, visit www.nwaba.org

Joseph Kortum, photo courtesy of PeaceHealth.

After eight years as CEO of Southwest Washington Health System and two years as CEO of the Columbia Network of PeaceHealth, Joseph M. Kortum, MHA, ACHE, has announced plans to retire, effective January 2014.

“It’s been a privilege to lead this community treasure that was established by Mother Joseph Pariseau 155 years ago,” says Kortum. “I’ve been honored to work with talented and committed boards, caregivers, physicians and volunteers in the noble cause of bringing healing and comfort to our community.”

Kortum has played a key role in the growth of access to health services in the region, including the affiliation with PeaceHealth in 2010, as well as the completion of the Firstenburg Tower in 2007 and the development of Southwest Medical Group (now PeaceHealth Medical Group) in 2007. He is currently chairman of the governing board of the Washington State Hospital Association.