Local Attorney Nick Phillips is retiring from the North Royalton Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), as Commander. Phillips has held that position since the group’s inception.
North Royalton CERT has been in existence since 2003. It was established through the encouragement of the U.S. Congress, under the auspices of the Secretary of Homeland Security and FEMA. The volunteer-based organization was formed to assist the community in the event of a disaster. “Being a CERT member is truly a noble calling,” said Phillips. “Our motto has always been “train and wait.”
At the CERT Appreciation Dinner held on June 7, Phillips stated, “I’m filled with gratitude, reflection and pride as I retire from my role as founding Commander of the North Royalton Community Cert Response Team. When we started CERT in 2003, we were building something from the ground up. There was no roadmap, just a deep commitment to preparedness, to service and most importantly, to our community. What began as a group with a big vision, has grown into a team of trained, dedicated volunteers who stand ready in times of crisis. That’s something to be proud of.”
Phillips thanks every member of CERT, who have “given your time, your energy and your hearts to this mission. Through snowstorms, power outages, search and rescue drills, parades and yes, even those endless training sessions, we’ve stood together. I’ve learned something from each and every one of you. You are the heartbeat of this team and this community. To our local police, fire and emergency management partners, thank you. Your support, collaboration and trust help make CERT a respected and reliable part of North Royalton’s emergency response network. We didn’t just work side-by-side, we became a family.”
Phillips thanked the City leaders for believing in the value of volunteer preparedness. “Your ongoing support helped keep CERT strong, visible and ready. He also thanked the families of the volunteers for their patience and encouragement. “Emergency service isn’t just a commitment by one person; it’s shared by the whole family. I know that personally.” With that, he thanked his own family. “You’ve been my rock during community events, late meetings and everything in between. I truly couldn’t have done it without you.”
Phillips concluded by saying, “As I step away from leadership, I do so with complete confidence in the team and in those who will carry the mission forward. CERT is in good hands and the spirit of readiness and compassion we built together will continue. Thank you for the honor of letting me serve. It’s been one of the greatest privileges of my life. Stay safe, stay ready and thank you, from the bottom of my heart.”
“We are probably one of the biggest and strongest CERT organization out there. I like to think of ours as probably the best around,” said Mayor Larry Antoskiewicz. “Nick has done an excellent job being the commander. He’s been in it for the entire time. I thank him for all that he has put into it.”
As for who will take the place of Phillips, moving forward, Antoskiewicz stated, “we have interviewed a couple of people that have shown interest, and discussions are continuing at this time.”
By GLORIA PLEVA KACIK
Contributing Writer
