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Matthew Heins named WNY Explorer of the Year Seventeen-year old Matthew Heins of Caledonia says he joined the Caledonia FD Explorer Post for a hobby but found it provided so much more than something to do on the weekend that he’s committed much of his free time to the post’s activities and to volunteering at the fire hall and in the community. He’s being recognized for his dedication with the Western New York Explorer of the Year Award, which he’ll be receive at the WNY Volunteer Fireman’s Association convention this July. Since Heins joined the post in 2006, he’s participated in numerous fundraising events such as the annual can and bottle drive, Mother’s Day pancake breakfast, candy sale and Hometown Holidays. Community service is one component of being an Explorer; it’s primary purpose is to teach young people fire and rescue skills and instill in them a desire to become either volunteer or professional members of a fire department/rescue squad. Heins has proven himself in firematics, as well. He participates in fire department drills, fire hall maintenance and many fire prevention activities. He’s served the post as a lieutenant and treasurer and currently is captain. In 2007 Heins attended Explorer Weekend at the NYS Fire Academy in Montour Falls where he broke a state record of 19.6 seconds during a C-Pat exercise. Heins says being an Explorer has helped him become a well-rounded individual. He values teamwork, goal setting and the desire to be successful, all he attributes to his involvement with the Explorer Post. Most of all, the teen says, he’s learned the importance of giving back to the community. These characteristics also earned him the Livingston County Explorer of the Year earlier this year. "I attribute this recognition to my parents, the post advisors and everyone in the fire department who are always willing to help me learn something new," Heins remarked. Heins, the son of Larry and Susanna Heins of Caledonia, is a junior at Caledonia-Mumford High School and is a member of the varsity baseball and soccer teams. He is also an associate member of the Finger Lakes Classic Chevy Club. He plans to attend college to become a teacher. His parents are very proud of their son and say that the school and the community have also played a large part in shaping Matt into the young man that he is today.
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