February 17, 2013
Michael Helfgott of Bailey Island has been elected the new president of the Orr’s and Bailey Islands Fire Department Board of Directors.
Michael Helfgott of Bailey Island has been elected the new president of the Orr’s and Bailey Islands Fire Department Board of Directors.
Helfgott, a board member for two years, replaces former president Andy Paulhus, who reached the limit of two consecutive three-year terms on the board.
“It is an honor to be asked to serve in a leadership role for the department,” Helfgott said. “I look forward to working with all the dedicated volunteers who work so well together to provide the best possible fire and rescue services for all our neighbors.”
In addition to Helfgott, the OBIFD board also elected Betsy Leland of Orr’s Island as vice president and Ed Levine of Great Island as secretary. Ann Gulesian of Orr’s Island will continue as treasurer.
Five new members were also elected to three-year board terms beginning in 2013. Malcolm McFarland of Orr’s Island and Greg Leonard of Bailey Island join the board as first-time community members. Responding fire department members Steve Galhardo of Bailey Island and Dan Perry of Orr’s Island also join the board for the first time. Bill Beazley of Orr’s Island, who recently stepped down after more than two decades as fire chief, was also appointed to a full term on the board.
The appointments were made by board at its January 30 organizational meeting. In addition to the new members, the board also voted to officially elect Ed Blain of Bailey Island as the new fire chief.
Blain announced that Ed Sparks of Bailey Island has agreed to continue in his long-time position as rescue captain. He also announced that Walter Johnson of Orr’s Island has been promoted from truck captain to assistant chief and Wes Haynes of Great Island will be the new safety officer.
In addition, Cindy Watson will continue as training captain and Perry remains station captain. Galhardo was promoted to truck captain.
The all-volunteer department provides fire and medical rescue services for Orr's and Bailey Islands and portions of Great Island east of the Mountain Road bridge and south of the Nazarene Church on Route 24.
For more information about OBIFD and volunteering, visit the department's web site at www.obifd.org or call 833-5199.