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What do you think about a proposed ban on smoking in public places such as restaurants, bars and workplaces?
As much as I hate government interfering with our lives, I love the smoking ban. Going out in Lawrence is so nice without smelling cigarette smoke at your table while eating.
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Comments
lmatt (anonymous) says…
"oneplusoneisthree" as someone else posted, check the facts before you post. The township dept is just fine and will NEVER be taken over by the city dept!
oneplusoneisthree (anonymous) says…
Didn't several people say the same thing about Eudora EMS not too long ago?!
guzzler (anonymous) says…
I was just wondering when the old chief got suspended why was there a full front page article in the Eudora news about him, but when the Lt. got suspended there wasn't even a story. I guess someone on that department leaked some information to the press. In my opinion I think the Eudora Township board should really look into starting over, cleaning house! I think the board should get rid of the upper positions cause its all gone to the heads. Replace the old chief, acting chief, Captain, Lt's and put the positon in the paper to recieve application on a new chief! Look what it has done for the city. I just got back from Iraq and there is more confussion here with this command staff and board than there is in Iraq!
greenman (anonymous) says…
I feel safer already....
eudoracitizen (anonymous) says…
I just don't understand why Eudora city and Eudora township are separate. Places I've lived have always been all ONE department under ONE chief. You have your fire department and if it covers a large area they have what is called a RURAL district. Still, that department has the same personnel and apparatus responding whether it's in town or not.
oneplusoneisthree (anonymous) says…
I am sure that is the direction the Township is headed... can you imagine being a member of the Township board and having to deal with this department? If I were them, I'd wash my hands of them if given the opportunity! Here's to eudora fire department - serving both city and county!
Harley (anonymous) says…
get off your soap box barnhardt, that dept. has a big mouthed bunch and many are discontent with all of it and talk a lot. your hubby volunteering.
Harley (anonymous) says…
your hubby volunteering is admirable.
barnhardt (anonymous) says…
Alot of them are discontent with all of it. My husband is ready to turn his pager in and wash his hands of the whole thing, but he doesn't.
I am not on a soapbox, my statement was merely to state don't judge the whole bunch on the actions of a few. As when the pager goes off for Township or mutual ad calls for the city my husband will be one of the first ones to the station.
barnhardt (anonymous) says…
Can't splash it in the paper, he said/she said. That would be slander. Hopefully it will all be resolved shortly, if not there will be alot more veteran firefighters added to the suspension list based off of he said/she said.
barnhardt (anonymous) says…
No they don't
itsbeenalongday (anonymous) says…
barnhardt,first let me say thank you your husband for volunteering, from the things i have heard about him he is an excellent firefighter, and thank you to your family for sharing him with the community.The Eudora and Eudora Township Fire depts.are staffed with good men and women who proudly serve the community and do the job very well.the township fire dept.unfortunatly has 2 very valuable members suspended right now but i can tell you for a fact that the 2 suspensions had nothing i repeat nothing to do with each other. both members suspended are guilty of allegations charged and it is very unfortunate for them, the dept. and the community.the actions of the chief are public knowledge so everyone can comment(but barry larson has served on both city and township and is more knowledgable and competent than you could ever know) but the actions of the Lt. have been wildly distorted through word of mouth.but an unproffesional incident did take place. was the Lt. wrong for his actions(which are a personnel issue and confidential)? YES. did the female firefighter have reason to report this and does she have the right to continue serving her community on a dept.(which according to the township board she has done for 8 years) YES. my family has attended the safety fair the township has had every year they have had it.the safety officer has fitted my children 2 times for bicycle helmets and the Lt. has been to the home of my day care provider for an inspection,i have respect for both of them.i have seen these 2 firefighters work together and they are just as your husband is, an excellent asset to the dept.i hope that everyone, especially firefighters spouses(i dont see your hubby on hear stirring the pot)thank goodness,would just leave this alone and let both issues be dealt with by the township board and the depts. themselves and honestly if my family ever needs a fire dept. i would be relieved to see all 3 of them respond.
EudoraDad (anonymous) says…
very well put. and with the anniverary of 9-11 at our door i totally agree. lets focus on memories of those firefighters who gave their lives.
Harley (anonymous) says…
so you are saying that barnhardt is wrong about the lt. and he is guilty? these guys disgrace the memories of those who perished that awful day.
trying_to_understand (anonymous) says…
Let's just remember those that do answer those pages that comes to assist those who can't. And the answer to your question Harley is that the LT is not guilty. Some people on here really need to get facts straight before running off at the mouth. Leave well enough alone and handle your our affairs, Stay out of other peoples lives and live your own. It is people like you, who comes on this forum and stirs up crap, cause you don't have a life outside of gossip. This is my only comment and last comment with this. And I am sure those will come and attack me, just like they have on everyother issue that is brought up on this forum. Have a great day!!!!
simpsonmomm (anonymous) says…
I agree with tying to understand. People need to worry less of what others are doing and focus on their own lives. I applaud those willing to sacrifice their lives to save others. Yes there are corrupt people but those who are will get theirs in the end.
itsbeenalongday (anonymous) says…
Harley, to correctly answer your post.is the Lt. guilty? well, lets look at the facts.a complaint was made through the chain of command on the dept. officers took it to the township board, the incident was discussed and then left to the board to take care of. the BOARD had the final say so in the matter and they chose to suspend the Lt. for 6 months. also, recently a family member of the Lt. went to the board and made a plea to lift the Lts. suspension. again the BOARD discussed the situation and denied the plea refusing to reinstate him until the 6 months is up. GUILTY? that may be a harsh or incorrect term to use here, but it is apparent that something had to have happened,(other than the so called "get the old chief back conspiracy").and it had to be something that convinced dept. officers to follow through with it and believe it needed to go to board.the GUILTY ones here are the firefighters that are taking sides(for both parties) and are letting it interfere with the dept. as a whole.
Harley (anonymous) says…
thanks for clarifying that for me. sounds like a tit for tat game to me and i hope no one has to pick a side to keep thier position out there.
Harley (anonymous) says…
but why are you suspended and not her? how many females are on your dept. and how do they feel about this? is there another board meeting that people can go and show their outrage at this entire ordeal?
barnhardt (anonymous) says…
Harley, what dmcafee states in his post can be confirmed. Way to go Dustin, put it all out there....
dmcafee (anonymous) says…
Harley I will only ask once dont insult my firefighters their wives or my department again. If you would like, why don't you join a department and volunteer. volunteers put their lives on the line for little or no pay and for people to get on here and start insulting them is a low blow.
remember bubbles31, oneplusoneisthree, and eudoracitizen have always came on here with things that have no merit or proof. If you are telling the truth then why hide who you are. If you truly believe in what you are saying then why hide behind a screen name.
Harley (anonymous) says…
it is obviously confirmed by him and i am sure it will make for great front page news. i just dont understand why HE is still suspended and has not been reinstated if all of this has been proven to be made up lies? did she recant her accusation? in other words what is keeping the board from reinstating you?
Harley (anonymous) says…
nothing i have said has been insulting so perhaps you need to just relax and read what was written.
letitgo (anonymous) says…
Harley the accusations against the suspended fire chief are not made up. What mcafee is saying the accusations against him are made up. What the suspended chief did is not supported by the township fire dept.
letitgo (anonymous) says…
That is why the fire chief has not be reinstated. Why Mcafee isn't reinstated noone knows why.
Harley (anonymous) says…
i know the ones against the old chief is not. why is mcafee still suspended and will he press charges against his accuser?
Hidden_Name (anonymous) says…
quote from dmcafee "i will only ask once dont insult my firefighters their wives or my department again." Then what? What would you do? would you threaten to sue but then give an excuse? Would you commit battery or assult or harassment? You should have been suspended well before now. Get a hobby to fill your time. You did something wrong and you should own up and then shut up. The only issue with the township is the few who want to go outside the appropriate norm and act as if they are above standard practice. You make me sick. Stop trying to turn the blam on others. Why were so many of your comments removed today? Because they were just as inappropriate as your past actions. GIVE UP and lay low the world forgives as long as you give them a chance to forget. There are several good guys still here, let us now try to fix what has been done and leave!!!! You disrespect the day!
letitgo (anonymous) says…
What I don't understand is why his comments were removed. If he is willing to speak on here, Why doesn't the newspaper contact him and look at his evidence. He seems to be ready to speak.
bubbles31 (anonymous) says…
Who needs daytime TV when you have the eudora township. Way to go guys and gals.
oneplusoneisthree (anonymous) says…
Dustin, need we point out that you calling someone an embarassment to an organization is the pot calling the kettle black? Just a tiiiny little bit?
oneplusoneisthree (anonymous) says…
Nothing is Dustin's fault, obviously. He's a perpetual victim.
Harley (anonymous) says…
so fedup you "know" who he is because he opposes dustin? he never said he didnt oppose sue. are you saying it is impossible for people on the township to have their own minds? so if they dont like dustin they must be for sue and vice versa? they kicked you off that dept. so that shows how much they think of you. the fact still remains, he is the one suspended.
lmatt (anonymous) says…
This post is getting old. Everybody thinks they know whats going on. If its not your business, stay out and quit posting. Find something better to do with your time instead of sitting in front of the computer waiting for a new post to answer. Thats all these "forums" are good for. starting rumors!
letitgo (anonymous) says…
I am quite surprised that people get on here and "slam" Dustin, And after almost a month passes, he gets on here and defends himself, everyone gets mad. Grow up everyone has limit that they will tolerate. fed up bs good call on hidden name.
akeeton (anonymous) says…
This is the first time I have posted anything on this forum, so if there is something put in here that is misunderstood please forgive me. I do not know all of the facts related to this issue, however I do know that alot of these posts are basically opinions. That is what I am here to express. I have lived in Eudora most of my life and I have never been very current on any events that have teken place. I do know that the things I have been reading do not seem to be helping anyones situations at all. I see argument after argument, he said/she said, and I do not know how that could possibly be any benefit to the community at all. No matter where we live, or what we do, there will always be rumors and gossip. Yes the evidence needed for determaining the outcome of the 2 suspended firefighters has been presented to the board. Now what the community needs to do is stop going by hearsay and look at the facts. Ive read several posts by people involved with the dept personally and I feel those are the poeple who really know what they are talking about. Again I stress, I am new to this, so if I say something out of context please correct me. I do not know anyone on the department personally except Dustin. And what I do know about him is that he is an awesome guy. He does not deserve to be downgraded the way some people have recently done. He has always been there for the dept and has done everything in his power to make that his heart and soul. The issue surrounding his suspension can go both ways. I have never known Dustin to put himself before anything. Especially his department. I totally agree with letitgo.. there is only so much a person can take then it gets to the point you do what you gotta do.. I certainly hope this situation does not push anyone to their breaking point. That would go against everything a community is supposed to stand for!
Harley (anonymous) says…
so do any of the fire fighters or commenters know if the general public is allowed to go to the township board meetings to express their concerns about these people, and if so when are they held? perhaps to get to the truth you should go to the source.
letitgo (anonymous) says…
Don't know if the general public can go to the board meetings, don't see why not though. Seems it would be consider a city council meeting. They are held on the 1st Friday of the month, at 7 p.m.
littleattention (anonymous) says…
All township board meetings are subject to the State of Kansas open meetings act. Anyone may attend a board meeting and stay for the duration of the meeting. The only exceptions being; any attendee(s) that don't conduct themselves in an appropriate manner or if an executive session is called. In an executive session they may discuss anything. However, any actions that are taken as a result of that session must be made public and recorded in the minutes once the regular meeting is called back to order. The actual discussion in the executive session is considered private. There are time limits and rules regarding executive sessions. The rules and regulations governing public meetings may be found at www.kslegislature.com.
Harley (anonymous) says…
thank you little attention, hopefully those with true worry or concern will show up and share their thoughts or hear what really is going on with the township fire dept. those poor guys/gals seem to be in for a lot of trouble. it still sounds as if there is a piece of the puzzle still missing about the LT. that is not being allowed to be shared or what have you. i hope they work it out, restructure and move on to better times.
fed_up_bs (anonymous) says…
so is there any answer to this , i have found it, why keep beating the dead dog? its over for now so leave it alone! it doesnt matter any more!
fed_up_bs (anonymous) says…
how about you get a life, i pay for my internet , thanks.....
Harley (anonymous) says…
fed up, you know these people are in charge of at leat half of a million dollars worth of equipment and are faced with the decision to make life and death choices. i think people have the right to know if they are showing signs of mental instability or the inability to professionally handle thier position. how on earth can they be responible enough to handle the job if they behave this way? many people have true concerns about this.
fed_up_bs (anonymous) says…
i agree totally with ya its the publics right to know, but not personal life, i always followed rules, followed SOP's while on the fire scene, i never behaved in a wrong way, it was something that got blown out of proportion by somebody who had been drinking! and then turned around on me like it was all done intentionally, i never once goofed off or did anything stupid on a fire scene or anything scene of an incident!
Harley (anonymous) says…
was the person that turned on you the Lt.? either way personal behavior has a way of spilling over onto the job. why should people have confidence in a dept. who's personel can't get a long and behave like juveniles? it is totally unprofessional for the higher ups to be partying with the new recruits and taking pictures of eachother naked and then running around naked and behaving poorly.
new2town (anonymous) says…
What is up with this fire department? I don't know whose who in that department, but the other night I visited one of our local bar and grills. I was surprised to see several men drinking rather heavily and wearing their township fire department shirts. I know they are not always on call, but if their beeper would of gone off would they of responded? I know what they do on their own time is their thing, but what would you think if an off duty policemen would of been in there drinking in his uniform? Please remember you are serving the community and are always in being watched by those you serve. We want outstanding men and women to do these jobs. Show us that you are. If there are alot of problem people on this department clean them out. Make everyone reapply for position. Keep the good ones.
itsbeenalongday (anonymous) says…
fed up,i am happy to hear that you took your position on the fire department seriously. in previous posts you claim the female in question was responsible for your removal, are you saying she was at that party drinking? was she the one who turned on you? because i can prove 100% that she was not there.so are you now changing your claim?
Harley (anonymous) says…
wow, they were drinking in uniform? i sure hope they weren't thinkin of hoppin behind the wheel of a fire engine or make life and death decisions on a fire scene. i hope they rethink that wardrobe decision in the future.
itsbeenalongday (anonymous) says…
these are exactly the types of incidents that need to be brought to the attention of the fire chief and the township board. because i bet anything that all of those guys seen drinking, would jump in their vehicles and race across town to get on a fire truck if their beepers went off. thats very very scary.
new2town (anonymous) says…
It was their t-shirts and one also had on his hat. But still, you got to wonder. I know again what they do on their own time is their thing, but at least change your shirt. Don't advertise what you do. I like to party but I don't put my company shirt on before I go out.
Harley (anonymous) says…
their t-shirt is normally the uniform of choice and is still considered your uniform unless it is a public event then they wear the fancy stuff. it was a bad choice and another ebarrassment to their dept. i agree that it should be braught to the attention to the board and chief but are you gonna do it? nothing will get done unless somebody does something and i am not raggin just stating. i think we all would like to believe the "right" people are reading this and will do something but i doubt they are.
itsbeenalongday (anonymous) says…
yes iam. i have will be calling board members Glen Grosdidier, Jim Gabriel and Kieth Knabe (all listed in the phone book) and i encourage others to do the same.they cannot take action unless they are aware of what is going on.
Harley (anonymous) says…
then i want to thank you especially for those who have so much to lose if they did speak out because of a few rotten apples who would no doubt seek revenge one way or another. may i ask what you will tell them, as in all the way back to the mcafee coleman feud? thank you and good luck. would you happen to have an address that perhaps we could send letters to?
lmatt (anonymous) says…
Oh my god, all you people seem like little girls crying! You know how many off -duty cops and fire man go to bars, or just get a drink with dinner?? You all seem to be forgetting our local police.
Harley (anonymous) says…
i think if i heard of them drinking in uniform i would be just as ticked. it is wrong and unprofessional. the township dept. already has an awful reputation and they just added to it. they apparently don't care much about thier dept. and its appearance to the public and that goes to show their recklessness and disregard for right or wrong.are you saying there are cops drinking in uniform cause i am sure chief dalhem would like to know that.
itsbeenalongday (anonymous) says…
the fire department address is 310 E. 20th Street, the board recieves their mail there also im pretty sure.Glen Grosdidier and Jim Gabriel are very good guys im sure Kieth Knabe is too, ive never had the chance to meet him.i dont see why they would have a problem keeping all calls confidential if you explained your reason to them.if it is true that firefighters were drinking while representing the township, the board would want to know. its in their best interest to put a stop to it before they are faced with an accident or even a possible death.as far as the mcafee coleman fued looks like they have taken care of that, he is suspended.
itsbeenalongday (anonymous) says…
Imatt nothing wrong with going and having a few drinks, but to wear their fire shirts just to look cool is not cool.and doesnt look professional, dont they have something else they could put on? its another example of how that dept. is getting out of control. take a moment and call chief aytes and ask him what he would do to city firefighters in the same situation.it is actually against both departments policies.
Harley (anonymous) says…
thank you i just might write a letter. my fear is that someone with a grudge or something will be screening their mail, it is hard to put your trust in that place when so much goes so wrong so quickly.
lmatt (anonymous) says…
First off, no I have not seen cops drinking. Second, "beenalogday" how do you know what dept policies are? Third, how many of these post are from people that live in the township? If you dont live within the township, dont post. This means, if you are within the city limits, shut up!!!! You have no say what goes on out in the country!!
EudoraBoss (anonymous) says…
ummmmmmm If you live in the city OR the township, both fire departments should be of your concern, they DO mutual aid each other on ALL structure fires, school alarms, and business alarms within the city.
itsbeenalongday (anonymous) says…
i know because i took the time to call chief aytes smartie pants.i stand corrected... it is against the citys policies i assumed that it would be township also which im sure it probably is!!!!! if not then it should be.
lmatt (anonymous) says…
I have one question, why are so many people concerned with issues that THEY cant change?? The people on this forum have NO control over either dept. They have No say in what happens with either dept. Do you go to Wal-mart and question how they run the store??? I think not, because there is nothing YOU can do about their policies! If you have a fire, guess what, you have insurance to cover ANY damages.
Every person today wants the government to take care of them. This is SICK!!
itsbeenalongday (anonymous) says…
could someone remind me again who is the township chief now? im thinking the last name is clark? ty
itsbeenalongday (anonymous) says…
nevermind ive got it.
letitgo (anonymous) says…
I'm sorry to see that everyone is basing their opinion on 2 or 3 guys. The department as a whole is not like that. The T-shirts that are being worn, are not their uniforms. They have actually uniforms,badges,etc... that are worn to meetings and etc... The t-shirts were given out a while back, by the suspended cheif. There are also guys that are no longer on the fire department that have these T-shirts also. Do you know if these were active members?
matt11 (anonymous) says…
would be a different story if they went out drinkin in their fire protective suits and drove the fire truck to the bar!!
EudoraDad (anonymous) says…
i'll drink to that greenman!
matt11 (anonymous) says…
im drinkin now Greenman!!!
greenman (anonymous) says…
As my good friend Jim Rome says: "Classic"
EudoraDad (anonymous) says…
hey greenman, i will grab us a bottle and you pick us up some neat T-shirts,and we can meet at the dog fights.then i can stop in at Broers and pick my wife up some "i am sorry dear" flowers before we go vote YES on the school bond.
greenman (anonymous) says…
Dude, I'm so in - couple of suggestions, if I might; mat11 is on board (any dude that's sippin some quality, well honed pilsner AND taking care of his community is so totally with us}, itsbeenalongday drives and harley rides shotgun and finally, whoever drives will have to ram into "the wall" downtown and fix that whole danged mess.
That's all I got.
itsbeenalongday (anonymous) says…
can i drive a fire truck?
Harley (anonymous) says…
ha, ha, ha, very well done. i see the wizard of oz at work.
EudoraDad (anonymous) says…
we will save you a seat mat11,hey grab some baseball bats so we can drive by and beat the heck out of those new high dollar blue trash barrels!and to end the night with a bang, we will go to DQ and get some really crappy service.
Harley (anonymous) says…
some of us take this serious sometimes maybe to serious but when your families life could depend on it(like the night of 4th of july)i think it should be addressed even though they keep deleting it.
greenman (anonymous) says…
Sorry if I offended you Harley. Just trying to lighten the mood. The best tax dollars spent are at the local level and I rest easier knowing that we are protected by people who know how to do their jobs. I do think, however, that there is a line between personal and professional, or at least there should be. I have no idea what happened here, but I bet that once the sirens sound, they forget all the personal crap and they do their job. Even if some of you don't think that is true, I feel better believing it. Keep rockin' Harley.
Harley (anonymous) says…
i love your posts greenman and i appreciate you cutting the tension so no worries man. sadly though when those sirens went this past 4th of july when there was someone trapped in their home and the potential of other homes to be on fire, this suspended chief gave the order not to help and there are many of us including those on that dept. who don't want people to forget that. plus it just seems like their level of professionalism has gone out the window and i have no doubt that it will eventually spill over onto the fire ground. take care greenman and dont stop posting!
treasuredyorkie (anonymous) says…
I am the assistant chief's, now acting chief, wife. I don't think alot of you posting know all the facts only the rumors. For those of you judging the acting chief, you don't even know what he has done. First of all on July 4th he and 2 other firefighters were on the first truck to leave the station! He didn't even pause to think what the old chief's orders may be. He responded with great speed. Next, even though the old chief ordered the other firefighters to stand down and not respond, they responded anyway. Eudora Township had every truck they have at that fire. Since becoming the acting chief he immediately went to Chief Ates to repair any damages that had been done both from that incident and past incidents with the old chief. He offered to work with Chief Ates and to do training with Eudora City Fire. The acting chief was thrown into this position, as he was the assistant chief, and next in line of the officers. He has tried to handle all the situations that have came up. He cannot handle them on his own. There are other officers on the department and the Township Board above them. It is true that Dustin has been falsely accused of most, if not all, of the things that were alledged against him, so give him a break and stop putting him down. Yes he may have posted some things he shouldn't of but how much can a person and his family take before trying to defend themselves??
As for the firefighters drinking in their T-shirts, they have all been told that they are not to do it, that they are representing the fire department when in the T-shirts or uniforms, and believe this that they will be told again, but also realize that firefighters also have a need to unwind. Do not some of you go to have a beer(s) sometimes to relieve stress or just to have a good time? Having said that-how can you blame the chief or other officers if it's done? They are not their babysitters and can't take care of them 24/7. Don't judge the whole department by a few people. Eudora Township has many excellent firefighters and if your house, pasture or whatever is on fire you can be certain they will be there. If needed they will also call for mutual aid from other departments to help, including Eudora City Fire.
treasuredyorkie (anonymous) says…
I cannot and will not answer all your questions so please don't even ask. Some things are personal issues that should remain personal and not for public gossip!! Those involved are due their privacy, even though some of you think it should all be public and aired out here. Think about it-if it were you would you want your personal business splashed all over the forum and newspaper? I think not.
Please don't run the acting chief down for what others are doing-as he is trying to do the best job he can. It doesn't help when some people keep stirring the pot and causing problems for other firefighters and trying to get them suspended because they didn't support the suspended chief. It doesn't help when a firefighter is threatening other firefighters because they don't stand up for the suspended chief. Do you want an operating fire department or one that stands with the suspended chief? I think you want the acting chief to respond to the call with the other firefighters. So quit judging the department by what a FEW have done. Don't keep making worse than it is by posting only rumors and hateful thoughts. Don't blow it all out of proportion and make it worse than it is!!
treasuredyorkie (anonymous) says…
Please don't keep putting the township fire dept. down and embarassing them more than what the "bad apple(s)" have done. The officers and other firefighters are trying to put the past away and move forward. They are all working as "brothers & sister" of the fire department to make things better and right. They are trying to make the reputation of the dept. what it should be, what it could be, what it is. It IS a very good and dependable fire dept. Ask those that have been protected by the department. Ask those that have had their homes saved from total loss and with very little loss by Eudora Township Fire Dept.!!! You judge by the "few" but don't give ANY credit for the good that they do!! If the false accusations, false information would stop it would help to heal not only the fire dept. but the community as well. Let them do their jobs and move on to better days. Don't judge the book by the cover, by what you hear and don't know for certain to be true!!
How many of you would volunteer to risk your life when the call comes for $10.00 a call?? How many of you would serve as chief or acting chief for $46.00 a month? If you would volunteer and be a firefighter. Serve your community!!
Harley (anonymous) says…
no one has even mentioned your husband in any of this so you are coming out of left field here. he is doing the best he can with what he's got to deal with no doubt.
treasuredyorkie (anonymous) says…
Join and volunteer instead of critizing. These men and lady risk their lives when the call comes. They don't stop to think of their life but of the community that needs them, the homes and lives to be saved. If you want to be mad and upset with someone then be mad at the suspended chief and the one(s) that stand up for him, that didn't respond to the fire. Don't be mad at those that did!!! Don't try to ruin their reputations.
I am sorry to take up so much of your time and space but hopefully you can learn and be thankful that these firefighters are there to protect your life or property. Give them credit for the wonderful things they do!!! Come visit and find out how the firefighters feel about their job. They are proud of themselves, each other and their department and they have every right to be proud. These are some brave and unselfish people. Give credit and praise for those who do the job. Give your critism to the suspended chief and the one(s) that stand for him!!!
treasuredyorkie (anonymous) says…
Oh but it has been removed because there were some things said along with his last name. I am not here to argue with or disagree with any of you. I was only here because of all the negative things said about a fire dept and all the good firefighters that are there to protect the lives and property of the community--even those that are slandering them now!!!
Harley (anonymous) says…
are you not paying attention to the posts? most of us are criticizing the suspended chief and hope he does not come back and many of the people of this forum are from the township or have at one point been on it. the fact still remains that mcafee is still suspended not coleman and i am not saying that is right or wrong just pointing out a slight fact. will that change at the next board meeting with his new proof?
treasuredyorkie (anonymous) says…
And is that all you got out of what I wrote?? There was alot of info there and you pick out that no one has mentioned my husband?? It's sad that you cannot or refuse to see the facts and see the good of the department but you attack me for defending my husband and Eudora Township Fire Dept.!!!!!!! Join up and serve!!!!
treasuredyorkie (anonymous) says…
No his suspension will likely not be changed at the next board meeting but that doesn't make him guilty. The evidence has already been shown to the board. Unfortunately apparently they are afraid of a law suit from the accusing party rather than the truth and rather than letting the LT back to business of fire. Does that not send a message to the accusing party that they can get away with whatever they choose? If you really knew the facts as they are, which I am not at liberty to disclose, you may be very appalled at what has happened with the accusing party. I realize that many posts have been about the suspended chief but there are others that are tearing the department down for a few. Where's the thanks and praise for those that do their job???
letitgo (anonymous) says…
Harley rest assured that in november when elections come around, the suspended chief will no longer be chief. And our acting chief ( who many of us consider to be our real chief) will be Chief. However what treasuredyorkie was trying to get across let the Lt. situation go and let us move on. We are trying to move on as a dept. And everyone can rest assured that when pager goes off personal feelings are put aside, and we do what we are trained to do.
Harley (anonymous) says…
what a relief and i am sure that is what people are wanting to know about the chief. as far as the lt. he didnt put anyones life in jeopardy just the tit for tat thing with the safety officer is rediculous.
itsbeenalongday (anonymous) says…
treasured, wow, didnt mean to pull your chain. gee, sorry. nobody on here has ever questioned or commented on your husbands performance as acting chief. but i guess we havent shown appreciation for him either.so thank you to him. i sure wouldnt want that mess. it was me who even brought his name up, and the only reason i did was because i was thinking his first name was JIM but then found out that was the wrong CLARK and wrong department.
barnhardt (anonymous) says…
Harley, Dustin is not guilty of harassment. No charges filed, the only thing that has happened is his suspension from the department.
As for hiring a lawyer, Dustin said it best in his own post:
"I have met with an attorney out of Overland park who advised me to sue the Township but I will not it would take money from my department and that i will not do it would hinder the operations of my department hince making it hinder what they can do for their community i will not put myself before the department or the community i swore to protect and preserve nor will i hinder what my brothers at etfd can do. i will take my suspension for now because i refuse to put myself financially first."
As for what prevents her from doing this to someone else on the fire department, nothing. Per Chief Clark's wife "apparently they are afraid of a law suit from the accusing party "
Harley (anonymous) says…
he should sue her for defamation of character he doesn't have to sue anybody for money just his position back, unless he sues her for his expenses and rightfully so. i figured it would be worth it to have his name restored and to get rid of someone who uses their feminity for the wrong reasons. i wished she would get on here and give her side.
barnhardt (anonymous) says…
I wish he would also. I can't stand someone who wants to be treated like one of the boys, acts like one of the boys (if not worst) then one day decides she doesn't want to be one of the boys and claims harassment.
Harley (anonymous) says…
well i think it goes more along the lines of when a woman really has a harrassment issue and this kind of crap goes on then it really sheds a poor light for women's issues. and i am not saying she is lying but if he has proof against her then for the future of the men on that dept. and setting a good example for incoming female recruits he should do something. is she trying to have him kicked off the dept. because of this?
barnhardt (anonymous) says…
I agree crap like this sets womens rights back 50 years. The suspension was voted on by the Board. To get him kicked off would be by his peers on the department, I don't think that would happen.
Harley (anonymous) says…
what about her? do they have intentions of getting rid of her for this kind of behavior?
letitgo (anonymous) says…
Harley I would love to tell you more about this, however the dept. was told to quit talking about this. Which is why I can't tell you more. However no-one is sitting idly by.
treasuredyorkie (anonymous) says…
First of all, if it sounded as if I was defending the Acting Chief, yes I was but I was also defending all the township firefighters, or at least those that are doing good for the department--not the one(s) causing problems. Maybe you don't think you have attacked the Acting Chief but when you say the city should take over, it should be all one department, whose the chief and why isn't something done, etc. you are attacking not only him but the department as a whole!!! If you attack 1 you attack all as they are brothers & sister of the fire dept. They defend each other, they watch out for each other. This is what they are trained to do inorder to work together at the fire scene. Everyone has to watch out for & protect each other.
Like I said before give the good credit to those who deserve it.
As has been said the dept. has been told to not discuss the details of all that's happened because a lot of it is very personal and should be kept that way. All the talk and blame and questions only keep it stirred and hurts the innocent firefighters.
Have you ever thought that Dustin doesn't want to harm his fire dept. and that is why he does not sue the township? Perhaps if he did sue the accusing person the attorney that Dustin hired would pull the township into it and not just the accuser? Or perhaps he doesn't have the finances to hire an attorney? There are many reasons why he may not sue but that is only for him and his family to decide. It cannot be decided by anyone else on this forum nor should he be judged because he doesn't sue. It doesn't make him guilty because he may not sue for whatever his reason may be.
Also the accusing party went straight to the board not to her superior officers to report what she alleges. So the info above is incorrect! The officers did not take it to the board. If you were the accusing party and had proof of what is being accused would you not hire an attorney and sue the harrasser? Where's the proof??
As barnhardt said you can't choose to act like one of the guys (and worse) and then change and claim sexual harrasment. Or at least shouldn't be able to. It hurts those who have actually been harassed and try to get help.
itsbeenalongday (anonymous) says…
in 3 of your post you have referred to "brothers and sister" of the fire department.i believe there are 2 females so shouldnt you be saying sisters? or have yourself and the department excluded 1 of the females? or does the township now only have 1 female on the department? did another firefighter get suspended or quit?
itsbeenalongday (anonymous) says…
another thing.. you say the Lt. has proof blah,blah but it should be his choice to sue.. yada yada BUT then say why isnt the accuser suing? shouldnt she have the same right to make that decision what ever her reason being? sounds alittle like double standards dont you think? no matter what this person does now its going to be wrong in your eyes. are you even on the dept? do you always speak for your husband?
treasuredyorkie (anonymous) says…
I stand corrected--sisters. As for her rights, yes she does have the same choices to sue or not sue, but is anyone questioning why she doesn't or do you only question why the accused party doesn't?
I am not a firefighter but do spend time at the station and know most of the firefighters. I AM NOT speaking for my husband!!! I have my own thoughts and opinions and can express them without them being his thoughts or opinions. Aren't you expressing your opinion & thoughts or is it that of someone else??? Why can't I have my own opinions???
Anyway, I can see that you only pick out little pieces of information and not see the whole picture. You obviously don't like some of the firefighters, even though you are probably not on the dept. or know the whole truth. So I guess it is a waste of time to try. And before you attack --YES you are entitled to your own opinion as to what you think or believe. My last comment is please leave the situation alone and let eudora township firefighters go on with out being critizied. let them do the jobs they are trained to do with out being ridiculed and embarassed by all the negative comments. if you aren't on a fire dept. maybe y0u should join--then you may know what's going on for the truth and also serve your community in a positive way. No I am not on the fire dept either but I do go and help in ways that I can. I do support these wonderful firefighters for the job they do and for risking their lives for all of us!!!!
itsbeenalongday (anonymous) says…
thank you.i agree it needs to be let go. this will also be my last post on this subject.thanks to all eudora and eudora township firefighters, ems,and POLICE for serving the community God bless you all.
voiceofsanity (anonymous) says…
So is Dustin still suspended? If not, why is he using his department-issued radio? Why is is he treating patients? Why is he seen going to fire/medical scenes in his personal vehicle?
itsbeenalongday (anonymous) says…
voice.. are you just trying to stir trouble? if you were really concerned you would be speaking with an Officer from the Fire Department(privately). your information is WRONG,he is taking his suspension and bidding his time. he has not been involved with any fire or medical incidents. you are misusing this forum by getting on here making untrue comments. please just let it go, or make a phone call and get your information that way. thank you.
letitgo (anonymous) says…
Voice, If you are referring to the incident in Lawrence, He witnessed the crash, and went over to see if he could help. It's called the Good Samaritan, He has the training and expertise to help. In no way was that a Township fire call. Stop trying to cause trouble. Just because you might not helped, doesn't mean everyone is that way.
simpsonmomm (anonymous) says…
isnt it mandated that if you are trained or certified that you must stop and give assistance, if you are noticed and named you could lose your certification? i applaud anyone willing to stop and assist in a life or death situation regardless if suspended or not thank you!!! if it were my kids or family i would hope someone would stop and help them
itsbeenalongday (anonymous) says…
its only mandated if you are advertising that you are a first responder, for example.. you must stop if you are in any emergency vehicle or you have your own personal vehicle equipped with lights and sirens.I personally do not care for some of mcafees past actions,and i believe he was NOT wrongly suspended, but i also believe that he has a passion, and much knowledge of the emergency service field. i think if he saw an incident it would be a natural instinct for him to stop and give assistance.
trying_to_understand (anonymous) says…
Leave well enough alone, we are all hiding behind screen names to keep our idenitiy safe from attacking each other out on the street, itsbeenalongday needs to have their facts of Dustin being wrongly suspended straight before posting, because I can guarantee that is false and if you would like the proof then click on my user name and email and I can provide that information to you. But as we all know that will NOT happen, for you don't want to be known. Dustin's passion to help those need it are greatful for him being there, ask them and you will get the truth. Again you will have those that will attack Dustin because they have personal issues with him. They don't have the nerve to say something to his face, just behind his back. Ever heard the term, back stabber-- i really don't want to get this forum all stirred up again, but I forgot voiceofsanity has already done that, much!!! Personal issues people have with anyone is your business, KEEP it to yourself. For we all know that Eudora is known for the juicy gossip that everyone loves to hear (and it is not just Eudora, its everywhere) Freedom of speech is our constitution right, but keep those comments of others to yourself. I would hope and pray that anyone in their right mind would stop and assist a victim, especially when we all know that it can take anywhere from 5-15 minutes(if not longer) for the paramedic's to get there. remember the golden rule: do unto others, as you would want them to do unto you!!!! Hope everyone will understand that we are only on here for the juicy gossip the laughter of the retarded remarks someone of us leave on this forum, but again hiding behind the screen names is our best feature.... Have a wonderful life and remember the golden rule, for someday What goes around-comes around & for every finger you point to a person, three others are pointing back at you.....
guzzler (anonymous) says…
One Question: What happens after there suspensions are up if the board even lets them come back???????? Have both of those gentlemen though of that? Last time I checked Kansas is a work right state, and to be a volunteer in a work right state they have no rights! Just a thought
trying_to_understand (anonymous) says…
Do you volunteer on any department, to have your nose crammed up someone else's business. Probably not, but I am not sure, for I don't know you, or anyone else on this forum, I just get on here and act as retarded as the rest of everyone. Let's see who else we can pick on, talk about bulling around, look at this forum people. Bulling and stirring the pot are the communties favortie things to do. Have a wonderful life, for I enjoy mine and the wonderful words of support from this forum...lol
guzzler (anonymous) says…
Dear Sir or mamm,
Yes i do work for a fire department. I am currently working with the iraq people and helping them learn up to date tactic on fire control and supresson issues. I work for the government and i am stationed in Iraq with the military. So to answer your question "Yes". Now if you work for a department please advise!
simpsonmomm (anonymous) says…
I just want to say thank you for what you are doing Guzzler. It sure makes these issues at home small compared to what you do over there.
I applaud those who volunteer here and over seas.
trying_to_understand (anonymous) says…
I do!!!
simpsonmomm (anonymous) says…
javaqueen, its never good to lose a volunteer. It sounds if you have a personal vandetta against him and should be taken up elsewhere.
javaqueen (anonymous) says…
very true.
javaqueen (anonymous) says…
it was his choice to resign. so i say good ridance
Harley (anonymous) says…
simpsonmomm, do you know dustin personally or anything about him? If not then this is the wrong forum for you.
newtoeudora (anonymous) says…
its back, thank you all for my fire department drama.
simpsonmomm (anonymous) says…
does it matter if i know him or not? is it wise to attack someone behind his back? He resigned, his choice. volunteers are hard to find especially in a town like this. And since when is it a crime to voice an opinion in this forum?
Thankyou (anonymous) says…
If you knew him, you would understand the supercharged angst(sp?) on this man. It does matter, kinda like being informed about all the aspects of a school bond. There are plenty of volunteers and I am sure a plethera of more just stepped forward. It is not behind his back, he knows how to read and is well aware of how people think of him. Was it really his choice is what I want to know or was it the other option? I wish the new/existing officers and members the best of luck out there.
Thankyou (anonymous) says…
I just hope it was the right choice if it were his option and hopefully he has other options ahead, I wish him and his family the best. Keep moving forward life is to short.
itsbeenalongday (anonymous) says…
yes!!!!! wishes DO come true
factsoflife (anonymous) says…
he hasnt resigned isnt going to resign and we look forward to his return love bursting you alls bubble
Harley (anonymous) says…
o.k. so i guess it is up to us as individuals to choose whom we want to believe, javaqueen or factsoflife. any takers?
Thankyou (anonymous) says…
Congratulations to Mike Baxter, the new ETWP Fire chief. You will do a fine job. All of the new officers will be awesome as well.
teddy (anonymous) says…
Mike is a great guy! Congratulations to you and your family.
E_Kim_Noselo (anonymous) says…
Guaranteed!!! They messed up!! Just kiddin'...Mike Baxter will make the best Fire Chief tht Eudora could have gotten. i guarantee it. He is one good guy, good dad, good husband and a good friend that wants to be it. We haven't even touched on his willingness and eagerness towards being a great fire cheif. Congratulations Mike on your new endeavor. Eudora should/is proud to have Mike Baxter the new chief....Good Choice!!!
Thankyou (anonymous) says…
My understanding is that there is MIke Baxter as chief, then there is Chad Wilkerson as Asst. chief, Mr. Barnhardt as Capt., Duke verhelst as Lieutenant as well as Darren Abram's, and Michelle Mcafee as training officer.
I might have Mr. Wilkerson and and Mr. Barnhardt transposed so I apologize if it switched around.
barnhardt (anonymous) says…
I actually believe my husband is a Lieutenant and Duke is the Captain.
Thankyou (anonymous) says…
hey i gave him a promotion! not enough coffee yet. way to go duke we are proud of you!
so barnhardt what did they do with mr. mcafee, did he resign or is being made to resign? you would no better than anyone so far and end a ton of guessing.
barnhardt (anonymous) says…
Not my place to comment. If you want to know ask Dustin.
Besides a few people on this forum like to personally attack your children when they don't like your opinions.
As for Mike Baxter he will be a great asset to the department. If he reads this forum once again thank you for April 29 2003.
Thankyou (anonymous) says…
I did and he degraded who I was when I thought he was my friend. I just figured you would end the cycle of lies and attacking of eachother, it just seems as if you are going to perpetuate it and have people continue to degrade him. My opinion, and it is wrong to bring in the kids but wasn't that on a different forum topic?
barnhardt (anonymous) says…
Sorry I don't know the answer. Besides would that make the degrading stop. I don't think so.
Thankyou (anonymous) says…
True, wether the man is on or off the dept. will most likely not stop people from slamming him on this forum. As for him deciding to stop degrading me or anyone else is up to him. Hopefully his contempt won't blind him like it seemed to have Mr. Larson.
So is the hubby excited about is new position? I bet they all are.
barnhardt (anonymous) says…
Yes he is, very excited about his new position. Wasn't sure about a new fire chief until he actually realized who Mike was. He is very impressed with Mike.
Thankyou (anonymous) says…
Mike is a wonderful man whom I owe a lot to. He really knows his stuff and is an all around great guy. I hope the new officers make great changes out there to turn things around.
barnhardt (anonymous) says…
Mike is a great guy, I personally owe alot to him.
itsbeenalongday (anonymous) says…
sounds like a good crew but i seriously doubt that michelle is the training officer,she doesnt hold enough certification for that position. i believe she is pub ed. sounds like it is looking up for all the guys and gals out there. wtg!
Thankyou (anonymous) says…
Do you not like her?
itsbeenalongday (anonymous) says…
WHO??
Thankyou (anonymous) says…
MRs mcafee.
itsbeenalongday (anonymous) says…
never said i didnt.
Thankyou (anonymous) says…
Well you don't seem to care much about the Mr. so I was wondering if it was a family affair.
quaterly (anonymous) says…
there are two Mike Baxter in the phone book. Does he live in town or in the country? Just trying to see if I know this person. Thanks
Thankyou (anonymous) says…
He lives in town.
Harley (anonymous) says…
i find it ironic how all of dustin's supporters (mostly women go figure) and know it alls were willing to defend him when he was being attacked or what have you and now that the township elections are over, no one wants to speak of his standing on the dept.(especially him) perhaps his supporteres are now doubters? hypocrytical ain't it?
itsbeenalongday (anonymous) says…
harley check your e-mail.
Harley (anonymous) says…
oh how interesting is that longday! you are to much. keep checking your e-mail i just might send one back. i guess i would keep my mouth shut if i were him too! guilty or not is the question?! i guess he ain't that great afterall.
itsbeenalongday (anonymous) says…
look at barnhardts last few posts harley LOL.. for months she lead the "save mcafee" campaign and now her husband is an officer and she replies to someone she cant speak for him? whats that tell ya??
EudoraBoss (anonymous) says…
I have nothing to add to this thread, just wanted to be the 200th post in it. Have a nice evening.
itsbeenalongday (anonymous) says…
Thankyou, please check your e-mail also. looks as though something positive will come out of this forum yet!!
Thankyou (anonymous) says…
you missed my point. the point to my rants is that contempt leads to blindness and blindness leads to hate and hate leads to wars.
Harley (anonymous) says…
itsbeenalongday check your mail when you can. that was very interesting to read.
trying_to_understand (anonymous) says…
no wonder the children of today act the way they do!!!!!!