Spring Fire Honors Exceptional Service
Four Spring Firefighters and the department’s facilities director are honored at the 2025 Awards Banquet at Hochzeit Hall in Old Town Spring.
A-Shift Firefighter of the Year – Kennedy Ragsdale
A-Shift Firefighter of the Year Kennedy Ragsdale (center) surrounded (left to right) by Assistant Chief Robert Logan, District Chief Kevin Wiseman, Fire Chief Scott Seifert and Deputy Chief Jerod Davenport.
“Firefighter Kennedy Ragsdale has made a positive impact since joining the department last year,” said A-Shift District Chief Kevin Wiseman. “Kennedy comes to work with a smile on her face and continuously seeks opportunity to serve the fire department and the community.”
“She carefully balances the demands of being a mother and career firefighter with ease. At least she makes it look easy,” added Wiseman. “With a firm handshake and a glowing smile, Kennedy comes to work each tour with a beaming smile and a positive attitude.”
Kennedy puts an exclamation point on the phrase: “Never measure a person by the size of their shoe or their height, measure them by the size of their Heart.” “She serves with honor and performs with excellence,” declared Wiseman. “There is no question in my mind that she will continue to do great things within our community and our organization.”
“Firefighter Kennedy Ragsdale has grown tremendously in her time with SFD and 71Alpha,” noted Captain Michael Alaniz. “Her work ethic and love of the job can be seen every day she’s on the truck, from checking off equipment to ventilating roofs and providing fire suppression. Her character shows in her daily duties, her attitude and commitment to training. She is someone who is constantly adapting, growing, and setting standards for herself and others to strive for. I am proud to have her on A-shift, as well as at Station 71, where she is now undertaking Technical Rescue training as a member of our Technical Rescue Team.”
B-Shift Firefighter of the Year – Zane Stavinoha
AO Zane Stavinoha received his B Shift Firefighter of the Year Award from District Chief Larry Wilkinson.
“Apparatus Operator Zane Stavinoha demonstrates true leadership both on and off the fireground. He approaches every situation calmly, never letting emotion cloud his judgment,” stated Captain Jacob Bailey. “His steadfast presence and sound decision-making make Zane someone others naturally turn to for advice and guidance.
He leads by example, earning respect through his actions and character. He is also someone who brings humor and positivity to any situation, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. His leadership, humility, and dedication make it clear that his path in this department will only continue upward.”
“I’ve had the privilege of working alongside Zane and seeing the pride he takes in everything he does,” added Captain Curtis Lawson. “He pays attention to the small details that make a big difference, whether it’s on a call, during training or around the station. Zane consistently strives to do what’s right, even when no one is watching, and that integrity truly sets him apart. His dedication, humility, and work ethic have made a lasting impact on B-Shift and I’m grateful to have him on my crew.”
C-Shift Firefighter of the Year – Brandon Testut
C-Shift Firefighter of the Year Brandon Testut (left) with District Chief Jimmy Stewart
“Firefighter Brandon Testut consistently demonstrates the attitude, dedication and work ethic that exemplify what it means to be a part of this organization,” noted Captain Blake Thompson. “Brandon arrives for every shift with a positive attitude and genuine enthusiasm for the job. He is always willing to help – never complains – and takes the initiative to complete tasks without needing to be asked. His reliability and self-motivation make him a valuable member of our crew and a great example for others to follow.
“As his captain, I can confidently say that Brandon makes my job easier,” added Thompson. “His commitment to excellence, teamwork and maintaining a positive work environment truly set him apart. He embodies the culture of our department and is highly respected in this organization and deserves this recognition.”
“I had the privilege of working at the same station with Brandon for several years, so I had a front row seat to personally witness what an excellent firefighter and genuinely good man he is,” lauded C-Shift District Chief Jimmy Stewart. “His consistent work ethic, fantastic attitude and dedication to the profession are second to none. Brandon epitomizes what a great firefighter should be.”
Volunteer Firefighter of the Year – Kevin Lu
Volunteer Firefighter of the Year Kevin Lu (left) with District Chief Joel Crenshaw
“Not everyone would choose to be a firefighter, especially as a volunteer,” said District Chef of Volunteers Joel Crenshaw. “It takes courage, commitment, and consistency. Kevin has those qualities in abundance.”
“Kevin has been a hard-working Volunteer since 2018,” added Volunteer Academy Instructor Marc Corbeil. “He continues to reach for the next level and educational certification. Kevin assists with the Recruit Academy and always looks for the next area where help is needed. He has a servant’s heart and does not hesitate to help those around him.”
Donald May – The Fire Chief’s Award
Fire Chief Scott Seifert (left) presenting the Fire Chief’s Award to Facilities Director Donald May
“Spring Fire’s Facilities Director Donald May’s phone is always ringing,” said Deputy Chief of Support Services Scott Schoonover. “With three major construction projects, our administration building and nine fire stations to keep operating, Donald May earned the 2025 Fire Chief’s Award the hard way, with hard work”
Spring Fire Chief Scott Seifert commented, “2025 was a busy year for our facilities director. With crews returning to Station 77 after its renovation, Station 72 preparing to reopen and Phase I of the W.W. ‘Cotton’ Weaver Training Center nearing completion, the significant progress of our department’s facilities is a direct reflection of Donald’s expertise in construction and his steadfast leadership.”
“Please join us in congratulating all of these honorees,” added Seifert. “They set a high standard for our organization.”