The California Police Athletic Federation (CPAF) is proud to announce that the 2021 United States Police & Fire Championships (USPFC) are now Presented by Bio-One, Inc.
Operating under the motto, "Help First, Business Second," Bio-One provides high-level decontamination and biohazard cleanup services while offering clients the privacy and compassion needed at difficult times. Bio-One operates in 41 states with over 110 locations and is committed to providing first-class service.
"We are thrilled to add Bio-One as the Presenting Sponsor for the 2021 USPFC because First Responders warrant our support," said California Police Athletic Federation President LC Collins. "Bio-One’s reputation is second to none, and with their partnership, we can offer first responders a health and wellness outlet. We look forward to working with them for years to come."
Founded by San Diego Police Lieutenant Veon "Duke" Nyhus, The United States Police & Fire Championships were first held in San Diego in 1967. Duke recognized the need to promote physical fitness and camaraderie among the Public Safety and First Responder community members.
The USPFC caters to active and retired public safety and first responders who participate in Olympic-style competitions and open to individuals representing firefighters, law enforcement, and officers from corrections, probation, border protection, immigration, and customs across the country. Traditionally athletes compete in 45+ sporting events from biathlon to motocross across 35+ venues in Southern California.
"At Bio-One our support for Law Enforcement and Fire Service Officers is unwavering, and we're thrilled to partner with the California Police Athletic Federation during this memorable event," said Nick-Anthony Zamucen, founder of Bio-One. "We wish each athlete success and look forward to celebrating these everyday heroes."
The 2021 USPFC Presented by Bio-One will take place from June 10th to the 19th in venues across San Diego, California, and strengthen the relationship between First Responders and the community for many years to come!
About the United States Police and Fire Championships
The California Police Athletic Federation (CPAF) is the parent organization of two multi-sport programs designed for peace officers and firefighters. The World Police & Fire Games (WPFG) are open to active and retired law enforcement and fire service personnel throughout the world. The United States Police & Fire Championships (USPFC) are open to active or retired public safety and first responder personnel from an eligible agency within the USA. For more information, please visit www.uspfc.org.
As a working professional I’m no stranger to the term multitasking. Now if you’re like me, you once wielded your proverbial sword high in the air, chest puffed out and proud of your unique ability to focus your energy on multiple projects throughout the day, as only a highly trained professional could do. Until that is, well…your lack of focus and minuscule productivity left your responsibilities incomplete, lacking substance, and packaged as if it was your high school senior project that you threw together two days before your presentation (yes, I know what that looks like).
As a young professional I was always taught that if an employee was capable of multitasking then they would be highly desired and marketable in the general workforce, and for many years it had seemed to be the case. The problem, however, is that multitasking is really nothing more than an illusion of productivity. For example, Dr. Edward M. Hallowell summed up multitasking as "mythical activity in which people believe they can perform two or more task simultaneously as effective as one" or according to Author Greg McKeown - Essentialism - The Disciplined Pursuit of Less - he states "Essentialism is not about how to get more things done; it’s about how to get the right things done. It doesn’t mean just doing less for the sake of less either. It is about making the wisest possible investment of your time and energy in order to operate at our highest point of contribution by doing only what is essential.”
Now, before you send me an email to inform me of your ability to walk and chew gum while talking on your cell phone, just hear me out. Our wonderfully equipped human body is certainly capable of handling repetition and multiple minute tasks that really have no threshold for quality or performance, such as walking, eating, drinking, listening to the radio while jogging, talking on the phone and taking notes etc. However, when it comes to performance based tasks, especially those that are used to gauge our level of expertise, experience, or understanding, those require methodical consideration which comes from dedicated concentration and full mental engagement.
As we move forward into 2019 I encourage you to find what is valuable to you and focus your energy into cultivating it into the best it can be and let the "noise" of distraction pass you by.
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When it comes to Bio-One most people have no idea we even exist, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing.
As an owner/operator of a local Bio-One franchise I’ve had many opportunities to help people in a variety of ways that most people would never think of. One of my favorite aspects of our job is the fact that we get to make a positive impact in someone’s life, usually a complete stranger. Now for some people that’s not a big deal, but for someone who has sat behind a desk for the better part of the last 20 years, this is a warm and welcome change to the everyday monotony.
At Bio-One, we're not just another service provider, we are good will ambassadors that have an opportunity to help a family or friend through a difficult time by offering services that are outside the box. One of the most common questions I get is "Can you tell me what services you provide?"
Well, my answer is simple, how can WE help YOU? You see, it’s not about limiting our services to only supply the "ones that make money" it’s about our social and ethical responsibility to advance the communities we service. Our focus isn’t on what has happened, it’s on how we can improve that which is going to happen. We are proud to serve our communities and play a part in providing services that promote sensitivity, empathy, hope, and new beginnings. Although our direct services are required due to unfortunate events, our primary goal is to educate communities on awareness, support, counseling and partnering with other local businesses that share in our commitment for a better, stronger future.
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Spring is a time of renewal, of bright light and bright colors, when people start feeling more energetic. For many, renewed energy translates into a desire for a new beginning in a refreshed environment. In other words, spring cleaning. Cleaning one’s living space and making a new start by organizing your home can produce an improved emotional state, reduce stress, and stimulate an inclination toward creativity. Getting rid of the debris and possessions accumulated over a period of months and years makes you feel purposeful and instilled with a sense of direction. It becomes easier to relax and just enjoy being home. Just as importantly, ridding your home of allergens and toxic materials makes you feel better physically.
Where to begin
The mess we’re most familiar with, that which confronts us every day, is the clutter that builds up around us every day. During the long, dark, cold winter days, people are often less inclined to go room by room and weed out what you no longer need or want and organizing what you’re holding on to. When the sun’s shining and a warm breeze is blowing through the front door, you feel much more inclined to roll up your sleeves and dive in. Decluttering your home eliminates a lot of the dust that contributes to allergies and respiratory problems.
Allergens
Dust and dander constitute a significant threat to any member of your family who suffers from asthma or other breathing issues, so take care to vacuum thoroughly and frequently. Get into those corners and do a thorough job in closets, crawl space, the basement and other parts of the house where stored belongings tend to sit for long periods of time. Consider using a vacuum that has an HEPA filter, which captures particles from the carpeting, the number one source of many allergens.
Guard against mildew
Mold and mildew are potentially dangerous health problems that can grow almost anywhere there’s dampness and lack of airflow. Your basement, attic and crawl space are prime spots to watch for water leakage or anywhere there’s been standing water in your house, particularly if it comes in contact with boxes, clothing or some other object. If you find evidence of mold or mildew, use a bleach/water solution to kill the bacteria and keep the area thoroughly ventilated to prevent its spread.
Use non-toxic cleaners
Cleaning fluids composed of toxic materials represent a threat to your indoor air quality and your family’s health, as well as to the environment. Look for an increasing number of environmentally friendly cleaning products, though you’ll need to make sure your house is well-ventilated while cleaning.
Exterior cleaning
Spring is also the perfect time to do some cleaning outside your home. Gutters and downspouts tend to become clogged during the winter, as wind, snow and other precipitation brings down tree limbs and yard debris, which finds its way into your home’s gutter system. Use a hose to make sure water flows freely through your gutters so you don’t end up with standing water around your foundation, which can lead to serious structural damage.
Getting your home cleaned and ready for a busy spring and summer is always a good feeling. You’ll feel more relaxed and a freshened indoor environment makes you feel good from a physical standpoint. It’s hard work, but well worth the peace of mind.
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I'm sure you've all heard the saying No Good Deed Goes Unpunished, and to some extent that may seem true, so why try?
In my opinion, society as a whole is filled will good people looking to do the right thing. Recently, I was traveling out of state for business and lost my wallet. After three days on the road and many trips retracing my steps I was unsuccessful in retrieving my wallet and had concluded my credit cards, government ID and cash were lost for good. Upon returning home early the following week I found multiple messages on my desk from a gentleman that had found my wallet, called me multiple times and contacted the local police department, all in an effort to return something that didn't belong to him. Not only did this show remarkable integrity, but the time commitment it took to continually follow-up with a complete stranger was nothing short of amazing. The wallet and contents were returned, INCLUDING the cash.
As the one who benefited form this generous act it was easy to be appreciative, however, what happens when the tables are turned? In a recent conversation I had with an individual suffering from some form of mental illness, I spent roughly 40 minutes on the phone being criticized, insulted, yelled at and told I was a fraud looking to prey on vulnerable people due to the type of service we provide. During the mostly one sided conversation I was patient, soft spoken and willing to listen for an opportunity to help someone who was clearly locked in a mental battle with themselves looking for someone to help break their cycle. As I continued to listen, I looked for an opportunity to extend a helping hand. It was clear that I had a tough road ahead in order to help with recovery but I was reminded of why it is we do what we do, we are here to help. This particular individual is struggling with a hoarding disorder that has her perplexed like so many others. She told me repeatedly that she doesn't understand why she is a hoarder and understands her actions aren't rational but can't help herself. My heart breaks for those who are struggling to this capacity and I listened and extended a hand throughout each verbal jab. I did my best to find common ground in which we can build from. I'm sad to say this individual was not ready to accept help, however I'm optimistic I planted a seed in which she will be able to obtain help when she is ready.
So why try? Why did the man return my wallet? Why spend a portion of your morning on the phone with a stranger that's casting insults? From my perspective, I see a society that is generally willing to step outside of their own commitments to reach someone in need. We all know what it feels like to lose a wallet, but many of us do not understand how to professionally treat and overcome mental challenges. With educational programs in place and social campaigns highlighting issues that have historically been left in the dark, it has had a positive impact on those looking to recognize the signs of addiction, mental illness and suicide. At Bio-One we take these issues seriously and understand how powerful they can be. For me personally, as with most of you, we understand that lending a helping hand can come with some form of burden, however it's worth the time and effort to take on the social responsibility if it means making a positive impact in someones life when they need it most.
Suicide is among the top 10 causes of death in the United States, but there is hope!
As we begin a new year, and struggle to find balance to accommodate our newly formed resolutions, it is a good time to familiarize ourselves with the tools and resources to help identify and prevent suicide.
Suicide is all too common, but it can be prevented if treated in time. Suicide prevention begins with being able to identify symptoms which likely stem from a mental or emotional disorder that has gone untreated. Considering most suicide victims are white males (up to 70% by some accounts) it may suggest that males are more likely to go without treatment due to the stigma surrounding the terms "mental or emotional disorder". It's important to note that a disorder is simply an unbalanced mental or emotional state that can easily be adjusted using simple techniques such as exercise, counseling, and/or medication.
In an article published by the American Psychiatric Association, mental health is described as the following:
"Mental health is the foundation for thinking, communication, learning, resilience and self-esteem. Mental health is also key to relationships, personal and emotional well-being and contributing to community or society."
I strongly encourage you to read some of the articles I've added below in hopes that we might be able to save lives through awareness.
Suicide Awareness - General Facts
American Psychiatric Association - What is Mental Illness
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention - Washington State Statistics
