SKEMS Region II

EMS Capitol Day 2001
Sponsored by SKEMS - Region II, Southwest Kansas EMS, Inc.

Kansas EMS personnel gathered at the State Capitol in Topeka on January 31st for Capitol Day. Senator Larry Salmans, EMT, Hanston, welcomed us and visited with us regarding issues relating to EMS. He also introduced us as a group as we observed the Senate session in the afternoon. Senator Dwayne Umbarger, BEMS Member, greeted us, David Lake, BEMS Administrator, and Robert Orth, Trauma Committee member, spoke to us regarding BEMS activities and the Kansas Trauma Plan. Jason White, KEMSA, shared information with us about legislation being considered this session.

We had tables set up in the Rotunda on the ground floor with KEMSA, KEMTA, Region II and Capitol Day displays. Many people stopped by and visited with us during the day. This was a very positive experience as both public and Legislative visitors learned more about Kansas EMS.

We were seated as a group in the gallery as we observed the House of Representatives session in the morning. EMS personnel were busy throughout the Capitol during the day staffing the display tables, attending the House and Senate Sessions and observing the meetings of the scheduled Legislative committees. Many of those present visited the BEMS office during the day, meeting staff and having coffee.

Capitol Day is an activity for all Kansas EMS Personnel. Region II will be sponsoring this activity again in 2002. It will be scheduled towards the end of January or early February. We welcome your participation and hope you will make plans to attend.

Region II wishes to thank the organizations that set up displays. Your participation made the day a successful event and attracted interest from many people giving us the opportunity to share EMS information. A special thanks to Senator Salmans for his continuing sponsorship of this activity, thanks to Meade County EMS for their assistance in coordinating the day, and thanks to the facilities management staff at the Capitol.

The success of Capitol Day is a direct result of the individuals who participate. Please make plans to join your EMS co-workers at EMS Capitol Day 2002.