Annual Meeting

We are happy to announce the 2025 Chiefs conference in Deadwood December 5th, 6th, and 7th of 2025 at the Cadillac Jacks Resort.  Registration/Vendor links will open soon.  

Hotel links are here below. Rooms are going fast so please follow the links for conference rates.

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Call SpringHill Suites by Marriott directly at (605) 559-1600 and request a room in the SD Fire Chiefs room block OR use this handy booking link: Book your group rate for SD Fire Chiefs Conference

Call Tru by Hilton directly at (605) 571-1001 and request a room in the SD Fire Chiefs room block OR use this handy booking link: https://group.trubyhilton.com/3066uc

Click here to go to registration and vendor info page.  This link will be active soon

Friday Dec 5th

     1700hrs Early Registration

     1700hrs Social hour with Taco Bar

     1900hrs Slot Tournament

Saturday Dec 6th

     0800 Registration

     0900 Community Hazard Mitigation- Randall Downs with Verisk

     1030 Break

     1045 Resume Community Hazard Mitigation

     1200 Lunch- on your own

     1300 1st Watch Wellness

     1530 Break

     1545 Resume 1st Watch Wellness

     1700 End of day- on your own for Deadwood activities

Sunday Dec 7th

    0800 Registration

    0900-1130 TBA

    1130 2025 Annual Chiefs Association

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1st Watch Wellness

Barry C. Toone

Founder & Director of Professional Relations

Barry C. Toone is the founder and Director of Professional Relations for 1st Watch Wellness, a leading provider of preventative mental health and wellness services for first responders. His background includes graduating from the University of Notre Dame Law School and working as a trial lawyer. Barry's recovery journey and his grandfather's experiences as a decorated World War II veteran deeply influenced the creation of 1st Watch, leading him to dedicate himself full-time to the company.

Barry has been happily married to Karen Wilding Toone for 32 years. Together, they have raised three children and now enjoy the blessings of three grandchildren.

Jim Miguel

Department Liaison

Jim Miguel brings nearly four decades of fire service leadership to the 1st Watch Wellness team, with a career marked by dedication, innovation, and service to others. Beginning his journey at just 19 years old with the Modesto Fire Department in California, Jim rose through the ranks over 28 years, ultimately serving as Fire Chief. He went on to lead two additional departments as Fire Chief—first in Livermore-Pleasanton, California, and later in Provo, Utah—demonstrating a consistent commitment to excellence and public service across multiple communities.

Jim holds a Bachelor of Science in Fire Administration and a Master of Science in Executive Leadership. He is also a graduate of the prestigious National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer Program (2000), a testament to his strategic leadership and passion for professional development within the fire service.

Now serving as a Department Liaison for 1st Watch Wellness, Jim is deeply passionate about opening doors to vital mental health and wellness resources for first responders. His experience and credibility within the fire service make him a powerful advocate and bridge between departments and the support systems they need.

Outside of his professional life, Jim and his wife, Susan, proudly share a blended family of eleven children and twenty-four grandchildren. A lifelong golfer, Jim fulfilled a personal dream by playing the Old Course at St. Andrews, a meaningful journey given his strong Scottish heritage. His personal and professional experiences uniquely position him to connect with and support the mission of healing and resilience for those who serve.

 

Matt Quackenbush, LCSW

Director of Education & Training

Matt Quackenbush is a dedicated therapist and mental health educator with over 12 years of experience specializing in trauma and addiction. With a deep commitment to understanding the complex nature of PTSD, especially within the first responder community, Matt continually seeks out new methods and insights to improve treatment and awareness. He is known for his dynamic presentation style, his passion for education, and his ability to communicate the impact of trauma in a way that resonates with both professionals and those directly affected.