Paid Advertisement:

We have devoted ourselves Workers’ Compensation

and our staff to providing Employment Litigation
the highest level of personal Personal Injury
services to our clients Disability Retirements

Please contact our firm for Located in the Van Nuys

a free consultation Historic Library Building
Phone (818) 788 1700 14555 Sylvan Street
Fax (818) 788 1705 Van Nuys, California 91411

$1

PAYME

First N

Card H

Card H

Vis

Ch
Making a false or fraudulent workers’ compensation claim is a felony subject to up to five years in prison or a fine up to
$50,000 or double the value of the fraud, whichever is greater, or both imprisonment and fine
 GRAND PRIZE 2ND PRIZE 3RD PRIZE 4TH PRIZE

n
n
$2,500 $500 COURTESY OF

y
s

s
g
et
1

DONATION
$10 per ball $20 for 3 balls $50 for 7 balls $100 for 20 balls

Winner Need Not be Present to Win Entries must be received by

MONDAY, September 16, 2019
Participants will receive ticket stubs by mail prior to event

PAYMENT INFORMATION

First Name: Last Name: TOTAL AMOUNT:

Card Holder’s Address: Home

Work
City: State: Zip:
Home
Card Holder’s Phone: Cell Email:
Work

Visa MC AMEX Discover Credit Card No: Exp. Date: *CVV2 No:
(*Required)

Check Enclosed (Payable to Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemen’s Fund) Signature:

MAIL TO: Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemen’s Fund

ATTN: Juliet Brandolino - PO Box 41903 - Los Angeles CA 90041
(323) 259-5215
 On the cover: Vehicle Extraction - By Mike Meadows

Photo Inset: 2019 Lane Kemper Softball Classic - LAFD Camaraderie By David Blaire

2 • June 2019
 VOL. XCV JUNE 2019 NO. 10

• FEATURES •
2019 Lane Kemper Classic
Another great year out on the ballfields for camaraderie and the Wid-
ows, Orphans and Disabled Firefighters Fund • .............................10

Do You Have Emotional Intelligence?

This is the first in a series of articles inspired by the courses taught
at the LAFD Leadership Academy examing the building blocks of
successful leadership • .................................................................07

Have We Got Some Benefits for You

LAFRA has 600 bucks with your name on it. Check out this article to
find out how you can get in on this great offer • .............................09

• CONTENTS •
President’s Message • ............................................................................05
Battalion News • ....................................................................................15
The Retired Guys • …………..……..…..….…..…..….…..…..…..…..…….33
Department in Action • ...........................................................................34
Station Fridge • ......................................................................................36
Your Uniform • ........................................................................................37
Volunteer’s Luncheon
The True Heroes • ...............................................................................40
Fire Hogs—Solvang Bound • ……………………………………………….41
Heart Health
Defeating the #1 Firefighter Killer • ..................................................42
Retirement Dinners • ............................................................................44
MDA “Fill the Boot”
Using Muscle to Fight Neuromuscular Diseases • ...................................45
LAFD Golf
The 2019 Seniors and Maltese Cup up for Grabs • ...................................46
Mailbox • ...............................................................................................48
Memorials • ...........................................................................................50
Julio Maldonado—A Final Call for Celebration • ………………………….51
LAFD History
The Central Library Fire • ...................................................................52
Minutes of the Board of Trustees • .....................................................56
Classifieds • ...........................................................................................58
Tailboard
Fire Station 71 • ....................................................................................61

Notice: Production of The Firemen’s Grapevine magazine is very expensive, and while your dues
serve to underwrite a portion of the magazine’s costs, the bulk of funding comes from advertisers.
Many businesses advertise in the Grapevine. This does not mean that LAFRA endorses these
advertisers. Use of a Grapevine advertiser is at the risk of the member. If you are interested in any
of the advertisements, we urge you to use any and all means at your disposal to investigate them.

COPYRIGHT © 2019
Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association.
No material may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher.

June 2019 • 3
 FIREMEN’S GRAPEVINE
owned and published by the
Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association
7470 N Figueroa Street, Los angeles CA 90041

EDITORIAL STAFF
Dave Wagner • Managing Editor..........................................editor@lafra.org
John Hicks • Associate Editor..............................................jhicks@lafra.org
Eric Santiago • Creative Editor...............................................eric@lafra.org
Display Advertising.................................................(323) 259-5200 ext. 231

PSO’s
Nicholas Prange, Margaret Stewart, Brian Humphrey

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Art Sorrentino, Matt Mickey, Frank Borden, Jim Stiglich, Steve Ruda

PHOTOGRAPHERS
David Blaire, Brandon Buckley, 564 Fire, Greg Doyle, Harry Garvin, Steve Gentry,
Yvonne Griffin, Justin Johnson, Rick McClure, Mike Meadows, Jacob Salzman,
Peter Sanders, Erik Scott, Jeff Zimmerman, Adam VanGerpen

LOS ANGELES FIREMEN’S RELIEF ASSOCIATION

Robert Steinbacher................................................President
Jeff Cawdrey .................................................Vice-President
Steve Ruda & Isaac Burks .............Community Affairs Liaisons
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Chris Stine Gene Bednarchik Rich Moody
Craig White Henry Gasbarri Rick Godinez
Danny Wu Jim Duffy Steve Berkery
David Peters Joe Vigil Steven Domanski
Doak Smith John Jacobsen Tim Freeman Jr.
Frank Aguirre Kenny Breskin Tim Larson
Gayle Sonoda Mike Sailhamer Tyler Tomich

CHAPLAINS
To contact a chaplain, please call Senior Chaplain Rick Godinez at
(213) 797-2404 or the MFC Floor Captain at (213) 576-8920
Greg W. Gibson...................Chaplain Hershy Z. Ten.......................Chaplain
Danny Leon..........................Chaplain Roger Fowble.....................Chaplain
George A. Negrete...............Chaplain Mark R. Woolf.....................Chaplain
Aquil F. Basheer..................Chaplain Jesus Pasos.........................Chaplain
Tim Werle............................Chaplain

TELEPHONES
Fire-Relief ...............................................................(323) 259-5200
Relief Association Toll Free Number .........................(800) 244-3439
Relief Medical Plan ................................................. (866) 995-2372
Fax Number ..............................................................(323) 259-5290

LAFRA MANAGEMENT
Todd Layfer • Executive Director..............................(323) 259-5243
Victoria Conwell • Human Resources Director..........(323) 259-5247
Liberty Unciano • Controller/Treasurer..................(323) 259-5225
Bob Dillon • Operations Manager.............................(323) 259-5233
Marlene Casillas • Development & Marketing Director(323) 259-5217
Ana Salazar • Member Services Coordinator............(323) 259-5223

HealthSCOPE Benefits
Claims & Benefit Information...................................(866) 99-LAFRA
THE FIREMEN’S GRAPEVINE (USPS 191-060) is published monthly by the Los Angeles Firemen’s
Relief Association, 7470 N Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, Cal­i­for­nia 90041. Annual $48 Subscription
included with Association mem­ber­ship; Non-members: $48. Single issues $4 postpaid. Back issues $7
postpaid. Pe­ri­od­i­cals post­age paid at Los Angeles, CA and at additional mailing office. POST­MAS­TER: Send
ad­dress changes to: THE FIREMEN’S GRAPE­VINE Magazine, P.O. BOX 41903, Los An­ge­les, CA 90041.

Printed by Collective Color, Los Angeles CA. For Clas­si­fied and Display Ad­ver­tis­ing rates please call (323)
259-5200, ext. 231 or 232. All editorial matter must be received by the Editor eight weeks prior to the month of
pub­li­ca­tion. The opin­ions ex­pressed here­in are those of the writ­ers and do not nec­es­sar­i­ly reflect the official
views of the Los An­ge­les City Fire De­part­ment or the Los An­ge­les Firemen’s Relief Association.

4 • June 2019
H
appy Father’s Day to all of you LAFD Dads. Special
thoughts go out to my father, who was the man I looked
up to and who paved the way for my life.
My apologies if I’m a little late on this next very important
issue. May was Mental Health Awareness Month, and I want to
remind you that there are a variety of resources available to help
first responders cope with the stresses of the profession. While
the Department, UFLAC, and LAFRA all have existing assis-
tance programs, it is vital that each and every one of us look out
for signs of stress in our fellow firefighters. In the last five years,
there have been more firefighter suicides than fireground related
deaths. Be proactive, show compassion—not judgment, and real-
ize that you can make a difference.
In this issue of the Grapevine, we have the full story from
this year’s Lane Kemper Classic Softball Tournament. It was one
of our best turnouts ever with 32 firehouse teams participating.
Congratulations to the team from Fire Station 2 who beat out the
crazy dogs from 98’s to take the championship. And many thanks
to Keith Bandy and his huge team of volunteers who worked so
hard putting the event together.
We also had a great turnout at the LAFRA Firefighter’s
Reunion at Pechanga last month. It was great to see so many ac-
tive and retired members reconnecting with old friends and shar-
ing some camaraderie. A big shout out to Doak Smith, Tim Lar-
son, Steve Domanski, and Juan Albarran for doing all the heavy
lifting.
Attention Active Members – Last month I lambasted the
retirees for using the LAFRA Medical Plan for their IOD inju-
ries and illnesses. Well, the same goes for all of you - PLEASE,
PLEASE, PLEASE, unless you have spoken with this office or
coordinated with our Work Comp specialist Wayne Sherman,
don’t use the PPO Medical Plan for IOD cases. The Trustees and
staff work hard to keep the Medical Plan’s cost low for everyone.
These misappropriations of funds only hurt you – and all of us
- in the long run. If you are in doubt on how to handle a particu-
lar claim, please call us beforehand so we can help. If you are
being represented by an attorney, please make sure the attorney
contacts our office so we may put the appropriate language in
your settlement to reimburse LAFRA. If you are Pro Per (doing
it yourself), you must notify us so we can send the request to the
City to reimburse the plan.
Although we finally negotiated a five-year contract with
the Pension Board for our medical plans last year, we are now
required to prove the “suitability” of our plans on an annual basis.
I am happy to report that, at their May 18th meeting, the LAFPP
Board voted to approve both our PPO and Kaiser plans for the
next year. They also voted a 5.5% increase in the subsidy for our
non-Medicare retirees.
We have two important events coming in the first weeks of
this month. First is Hope for Firefighters on Thursday, June 6th.
This really is a world class food festival on the streets of DTLA
that you should not miss. This year, a couple of the stations have
reached out to their local communities and we are expecting a
couple of surprise celebrity appearances. And then on Saturday,
June 8th the Fire Hogs are hosting the annual Fallen Heroes Me-
morial in honor of our fallen firefighters. Join the procession from
the LAFD Memorial Plaza at old Fire Station 27 as it winds its
way out to the Sagebrush Cantina.
SAVE THE DATES
• Hope for Firefighters - June 6
• 21st Annual Fallen Heroes Memorial Run - June 8
• IAFF Fallen Firefighter Memorial – Sept 21
• LAFD Invitational Golf Tournament – Sept 23
• California Fallen Firefighter Memorial – Sept 28
• LAFD Fallen Firefighters Memorial – Oct 12
Be safe and kind to each other!
Robert D. “Steintalker” Steinbacher
president@lafra.org
323.259.5200
June 2019 • 5
 n
Los A
CH
EC
THURSDAY, JUNE 6, 2019 / B SHIFT 11:30 AM TO 2:30 PM

Benefiting your

Delicious food, fun & prizes

BRING YOUR FAMILY
& FRIENDS The official charity of the
Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association

For more information visit givetoahero.org/hope

CONTACT: Juliet Brandolino (323) 259-5215 jbrandolino@lafra.org

6 • June 2019
 ire De
les F p
e
ng

ar
tm
Los A

Leadership

ent
Academy

T
his is the first in a series of articles in- developing other leaders to ensure ongoing
CH

OR
spired by the courses taught at the LAFD growth. At this level, leaders are constantly
EC

K Leadership Academy. The series will ex- striving to help others find their potential.
D

YO E
U R E G O AT TH amine the building blocks of successful leader-
ship. This article was adapted by the Grape-
vine’s Alicia Iwakiri from a presentation by
Isaac Yang, Division Chief, Redondo Beach
Fire Department.
What makes a leader? Is it your rank
“People don’t and duties, or the knowledge of what you bring
to the table for others? Some think success in
the workplace is predicted by IQ and expertise,
Personhood is the level of respect.
People follow this level of leadership because
of who you are, what you represent, and your
values. You execute your position well, invest
in others’ success, and gain their respect. Peo-
ple see success in you. When we attain this lev-
el of leadership, we often think we’re done and
have reached the pinnacle, but we must keep
growing because someone else will get to this

care about
but IQ only gives you about a 25% success val-
ue and expertise another 25%. The other 50%
- the missing piece - is the ability to connect
with people. This is where true leadership lies.
level too, requiring us to start all over again.
If you look from level one to level five,
there is a decrease in duties-based leadership

how much According to author and speaker John

and an increase in growing people and rela-
tionships. We all know the authority of our
Maxwell, there are five levels of leadership: duties, but often overlook the people we work
1. Position with and serve. This is that other 50% - it’s
you know...

2. Permission
3. Production
called Emotional Intelligence.

4. People Development Emotional intelligence requires vul-

if they
5. Personhood
Position is the level of rights. This is
the lowest level of leadership - people follow
nerability, which may seem contraindicative to
the alpha occupation of firefighter. Emotional
intelligence is based on awareness - not just
compliance to policies and procedures. If you

don’t know you because they have to, whether they want
to or not. Your influence doesn’t extend beyond
the lines of your job description; or the color of
your helmet. Being a real leader is developing,
how much building, creating, and fostering others even
though these responsibilities are not clearly
defined as your duties.
are only performing the things that you have to
do, there is no purpose or motivation to what
you are doing. This makes you a compliance
officer instead of a leader.
We assume loyalty, commitment,
faithfulness, and desire are traits instilled in

you care” Permission is the level of relationships.

• WHERE: The Frank Hotchkin Memorial
Training Center
• COST: At the present time there is no cost
to attend the LAFD Leadership Academy
• QUESTIONS: Craig Poulson, Captain I, In-
Service Training Section at (213) 893-9838
or lafdla@lacity.org
A leader at this level fosters relationships, and
those that follow you believe and trust in you.
The people who follow you are not just compli-
ant but willing.
Production is the level of results.
People follow a leader at this level because of
recognized accomplishments. Here, problems
are solved with minimal effort and production
is high. Most people perceive this level as suc-
cess.
People development is the level of re-
production. A leader at this level is valuable
and resourceful to others, and committed to
our culture, but they’re not. Mere compliance
doesn’t allow these characteristics to flourish.
The common phrase “IGM” or I Got Mine is
an illustration of how far culture has shifted.
This selfish attitude prevails because no one is
fighting for each other or fostering one another.
We often forget that we work with people, and
people have needs. People don’t care about
how much you know if they don’t know how
much you care.
Leadership through emotional intelli-
gence is the art of awareness. It’s the ability
to manage yourself before you manage others.
Leadership isn’t black and white – it’s grey and
adaptive, to where you can change people’s
hearts and minds.

June 2019 • 7
Paid Advertisement

Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association Medical Plan may cover this examination.
8 • June 2019 Contact your plan provider to verify.
R
ecently I took advantage of the
$600 Relief Association benefit
to create a Will and Trust. Yes!
LAFRA just gave me 600 bucks! If you
haven’t already, you should take advan-
tage of this important benefit too. It allows
for the full amount of the $600 to be ap-
plied towards the cost of having a Trust
and Will established for you and for your
family. I encourage you to make this a top
priority. It doesn’t matter how young or
old you are – everyone needs a Will and
Trust. Afterall, we are men and women
who dedicate our lives to the service of
others. Should we not be aggressive in tak-
ing care of those who we know and love?
What are you waiting for?
QUICK AND EASY PROCESS
The process is not as time consum-
ing as you might think. One short visit to
an attorney of your choice and you’ll have
all the needed documents filled out. Don’t
know of an attorney? Check out the ads
in the Grapevine for attorneys who work
with firefighters on a regular basis.
Here’s how it works: you, or if mar-
ried, you and your spouse, sit down with
your attorney and figure out how your as-
sets should be distributed, as well as how
your other wishes will be carried out. It
takes about an hour. That’s it!
I can tell you that we can be for-
given for the sin of procrastination, but
total neglect of this benefit is a sin in itself
if not taken advantage of. Plan on getting
it done soon for the sake of your children
and those that you love. Once you clutch
that legal binder in your hands and place it
in a safe place, you can rest a little easier
knowing that you have done the respon-
sible thing. You’ll place your family in a
much more secure position, potentially
eliminating great stress in a very stress-
ful time. Then share with them the im-
Two LAFD retirees have recently joined
the LAFRA staff as Community Affairs Liaisons.
In addition to providing excellent customer ser-
vices to our members, Isaac Burks and Steve
Ruda will be preparing death notices, attending
retirement dinners and funerals, and maintain-
ing records for members and their families.
Both were US Marines before joining the
LAFD. Isaac served 30 years and retired from FS 56 in 2008. He then worked for Council-
member Tom LaBonge as the Deputy of Arts and Culture for eight years. Steve served the
LAFD for 40 years and just recently retired out of Battalion 15.
portance of what you have done to protect rate and discount that to half, passing the
them in the future. savings onto you.
The following cemeteries in South-
CEMETERY BENEFIT ern California are locations where plots
On another note, the early members are available:
of our Relief Association had the foresight • Conejo Mountain Memorial Park
to provide another valuable benefit. Years • Eternal Valley Memorial Park
ago, investments were made in burial plots • Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Covina
that our members could purchase to lay • Forest Lawn, Hollywood Hills
their loved ones to rest. Over the years, • Forest Lawn, Glendale
many of our members have taken advan- • Glen Haven Memorial Park
tage of this important benefit. Today, in- • Green Hills Memorial Park
ventory is still available in many cemeter- • Hollywood Forever Cemetery
ies throughout Southern California. Your • Inglewood Memorial Park
Relief Association would like you to know • Mountain View Cemetery
that there are still many plots available for • Pacific View Memorial Park
purchase, but now at a discounted rate. • Pacific Crest Cemetery
• Pomona Valley Cemetery
HERE’S THE OFFER • Rose Hills Memorial Park
Find the cemetery of your choice • Valhalla Memorial Park
and look at our inventory of plots. Once a • Valley Oaks Memorial Park
cemetery is chosen and the plot has been • Westminster Memorial Park
determined, the Relief Association will
discount the cost of the plot by 50% off Prior planning by you will not only
the going rate. If you were to negotiate the help relieve some of the stress that comes in
cost of a plot on your own, you’d pay the sorrowful times, but will also reduce the ac-
going rate. If you wait until someone actu- companying expenses. If you are interested in
ally dies, you’ll pay much more than that. purchasing any of the available plots, or have
Since these plots are owned by the Relief any related questions, please contact any one
Association, we will determine the going of us in the Community Liaison Office.
June 2019 • 9
C
ombine 32 hard-
fighting teams, a
multitude of man-
icured grass fields, and
a handful of geometric
shaped diamonds, and you
have the makings of a char-
ity themed day of fun—
in other words, the 2019
Lane Kemper Classic. On
April 30, 2019, over 300
of LAFD’s finest firefight-
ers, along with their fam-
ily and friends, gathered
to once again honor the
memory of Captain Lane
Kemper who passed away
in 2006. In doing so they
not only paid homage to a
man that exemplified the
title of volunteer, but they
also raised thousands of
dollars for the Widows,
Orphans, & Disabled Fire-
fighter’s Fund.
10 • June 2019
 The Balboa Boulevard complex slowly
came to life as the army of volunteers filled the
parking lot in preparation for the early morn-
ing festivities. As in past years the weather
threatened play, but the sun finally prevailed
bringing warmth to the playing fields. Juliet
Brandolino and Keith Bandy’s months of hard
work paid off as the day’s events played out.
Juliet and Keith weren’t alone in their efforts.
Valerie Lawrence and Diane Vigil were also
hard at work, along with a cadre of volunteers.
Together they all represented the best of the
Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association.
The Relief’s Trevor Kuresa and his
team of volunteers quickly assembled the
tables and constructed the easy-ups. Scores
of other volunteers began unloading the won-
derful auction items graciously donated by the
event’s sponsors. From valuable trips and fun-
packed gift baskets, to a custom fire pit that
made more than one person at the event dream
of seeing it ablaze in their own yard, the mul-
titude of donated items helped the Lane Kem-
per team of volunteers raise much appreciated
funds for the WODFF.
With all the teams gathered around
the main complex of the park, Brian Newon
started the event off with a prayer, followed by
a musical rendition of the National Anthem.
Keith Bandy, along with scores of others, then
went over the rules, set field assignments for
the teams, and the day’s events were set into
motion.
There were so many teams participat-
ing in the tournament that all eight fields of the
sport complex were put to use as the first round
of play proceeded. Though the first game was
only for practice and didn’t immediately elimi-
nate any of the teams, one would had been
hard pressed to tell the difference between the
practice and championship round. Speaking of
firsts, the members of Fire Station 114 made
their debut at the event, fielding the first team
ever for the flyboys and crash members.
In game one against the team of Fire In-
spectors, Pilot II Jonith Johnson, Jr. had one of
the first hits, driving one deep into the outfield.
As if he had wings, he stretched what should
June 2019 • 11
have been a single into a hard-fought double.
Unfortunately, thinking he was tagged out, he
stepped off the bag and was initially called out.
Fortunately, the field gods had mercy on him
and he remained on base. Fire Station 10 and
14 also pushed the envelope in their first game,
showing they were there to play some serious
ball. In another game, Fire Station 29’s Bran-
don Elliot, made a “SportsCenter” moment
dive for a hard hit flyball, coming up a little
bit short—an “A” for effort was given just the
same.
Midday, a scheduling issue caused an-
other unique game to be played on one of the
fields. Members participating were asked to
balance a bat in the palm of their hand and race
around the bases—the first one to win would
advance to the next game. It was a battle for
the lead against a member from Station 15 and
33, with 15 crossing home first. The only prob-
lem was the member from Station 15 had also
used his fingers to control the balance of the
bat, disqualifying him and causing the game
to go to Team 33. In the afternoon, UFLAC
President Freddie Escobar made an appear-
ance at the event in support of the troops and
the cause. He watched alongside the crowd of
people cheering on the players, while enjoying
the camaraderie.
In one of the final eight games, Travis
Rice of Fire Station 29 made a diving catch to
rob Station 66 of a hit, allowing 29 to overcome
the team from South Los Angeles and advance
to the final four. Fire Stations 64 and 39 had
to play a tie breaker inning to see who would
advance to the final four, with Station 64 win-
ning. The final four were Station 2 vs. 29 and
64 vs. 98. Richard Cervantes hit a solo home
run to help Station 98 move into the finals,
while Cory D’Arrigo made a spectacular catch,
allowing Station 2 to move forward in a heart
breaker against Station 29.

12 • June 2019
 The final game started out a little lop-
sided, with the team from the east side taking
a commanding lead with great fielding and
hitting from all. Alfredo Larios of Station 2
showed he still had plenty fight in him even
after taking a hard hit in the face from a ball
off of the first baseman’s glove earlier in the
day. If there were an MVP for the event, it
would have easily gone to Chad Corona of Fire
Station 2. His pitching, along with his hitting
strength, proved to be a formable foe against
the team from the Valley. Casey Ketelsleger,
also at Station 2, made his presence known
with a home run of his own. The team from
the Valley didn’t go quietly though. Station 98
quickly answered back with multiple runs of
their own—one run being from an inside-the-
park home run from Rich Cervantes. By the
fifth inning the game was all tied up 15-15. In
the end, the East Los Angeles team of Station 2
proved too much for the members of the Valley
as they took the championship 24-18.
Once again, we want to thank Mark
Curry and his crew of culinary magicians for
the great food and hard work. Special thanks
also go out to all the sponsors, especially Brad
Standage of Galloway Asset Management and
the law team at Straussner & Sherman who
were at the event all day long answering ques-
tions about financial management and legal
matters.
As the day came to a close, I know
Lane Kemper would have been proud of this
year’s event. The true spirit of why we were
all there was kept intact, with fun had by all.
Though there was only one final winner of
the tournament, at the end of the day, the true
winner was the Widows, Orphans, & Disabled
Firemen’s Fund. Thanks again to all involved
in making the 2019 Lane Kemper Classic one
to remember. Hope to see you all next year!

June 2019 • 13
14 • June 2019

Hola Amigos, welcome back for anoth-
er episode from your downtown Battalion, de
Uno! This month we’ll touch on some hellos,
farewells and camaraderie. First and foremost,
hope everyone had a festive and safe Cinco de
Drinko (Mayo). Remember boys and girls, it’s
better to take a Lyft than to get your license
lifted! Don’t be a dumb dumb, call for a ride.
Anyhow, now that I got that out of the
way, let’s welcome Captain I Brad Ibanez and
Brian Brooks to The Ranch (FS 14). Also,
Captain II Victor Aguirre, who decided to
challenge himself by moving on up and taking
on the commander position over at Firehouse
3-A. Good job Bud! Next, we have Captain II
Dustin Clark . . . well, he had the spot at 9’s, but
apparently due to technical and emotional dif-
ficulties - it was too much to bear. So, I guess
we can chalk it up to a flyby as he made his way
on south to 33’s. Lastly, farewell is to Firefight-
er Alan Almaguer, making his way onto 88’s,
a place with no 800 and an OES Rig. Adios
amigo!
Now let’s get into other things, like
camaraderie. A lot of people take this term
loosely, but it means to come together as a
crew, from top to bottom, all hands on deck,
from training to fighting fire, to getting in the
suds together, to plain old hanging out. It really
does start from the top, especially in this day
and age. I say that due to the fact that more than
half the members are young in time. We, as the
senior members, need to show them what it
truly means to be an LAFD Firefighter. That
doesn’t mean having the probationary member
do it all. We as a whole need to lead by exam-
ple, show the younger generation how things
are supposed to be done - not by spending your
free time on social media or staring at your
phone. Try this - put those things in the locker
throughout the day and not in your pocket. See
how you interact more with each other and
what can be learned. Every second on platoon
duty counts, use it wisely. Do that and every-
thing else will all fall into place - being a co-
hesive crew, running fireground ops like a pro
team. Essentially, that’s what we are. We are
a professional firefighting team, from the pris-
tine truck company, to the rescue ambulance.
Get out there, find your drill spots, new spots,
go back to the fundamental basics, challenge
yourself, your peers and your crew. The City
takes care of us, well, let’s come together and
continue serving the public and each other
with Courage, Integrity, and Pride.
That about wraps it up again for the
month. Continue sending in your stories, things
you’d like to hear about or maybe a training
topic for discussion.
See you next time,
C. Danger out!
Batt1kitchentabletalk@gmail.com

Deputy Chief Phillip Fligiel congratulates Joseph Angiuli on Alex Garcia promoted to Captain I
his promotion to Captain II at F.S 3 “B”. Photo by Kyle Rausch at F.S 9 “A”. Photo by Kyle Rausch

June 2019 • 15
 At 3’s, FF Dipaola teaches proba-
Engine One tackles an auto fire in April tionary FF Ngo about the MPD.

FF’s Oransky, Norton and Navarro (not shown) forced entry thru
three doors to save 6 trapped victims in a structure fire. Great job! Firefighters battle a structure fire in Boyle Heights

16 • June 2019
 Trucks 3 and 11 jostle for the best spot on a structure
response at Bixel and 6th. Good work fellas!

Carlos Limon promoted to Engineer

Vincent Alvarado promoted to Captain II at F.S 1 “B”. Photo by Kyle Rausch at F.S 1 “C”. Photo by Kyle Rausch

June 2019 • 17
 Paid Advertisement

18 • June 2019
 TF 1-A together for a drill at DT 89

Fire Station 5 flies a flag in memory of Captain Harold Burkhart who retired in 1986

June 2019 • 19
 MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2019
MULLIGAN PACKAGE
INCLUDED!

NO REFUNDS AFTER AUGUST 1ST

LIMITED SPOTS!
FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED
Benefiting Your

MOUNTAINGATE COUNTRY CLUB | 12445 MOUNTAINGATE DRIVE | LA | CA 90049

9AM - 10:30AM | REGISTRATION/PUTTING CONTEST
11AM | SHOTGUN START - RECEPTION & AWARDS DINNER FOLLOWING GOLF

MAIL FORM WITH PAYMENT TO:

DOWNLOAD SIGN UP FORM AT
L.A. FIREMEN’S RELIEF ASSOCIATION

20 • June 2019 lafra.org/golf Development & Marketing / Attn: M. Casillas

PO Box 41903 - Los Angeles, CA 90041

(323) 259-5217 mcasillas@lafra.org

 The crew at 41’s with their new Rosie Tos mural, finished just the day before annual.

Battalion 9 companies participate in an Air Operations drill. Photo by LAFD West Bureau

June 2019 • 21
g
22 • June 2019
 “Hey Siri! Now what?” Photo by Scott Benton 4/17/19. E-83 battles a stubborn auto fire.

4/29/19. Family and friends say goodbye to

Pilot Dave Nordquist after 39 years of service.

June 2019 • 23
24 • June 2019
Raul Cabrera promoted to Captain I Jeffrey Fitzgerald promoted to Engineer
at 6 “B”. Photo by Kyle Rausch at 11 “B”. Photo by Kyle Rausch

3/31/19. Firefighters took about 15 min to knock

Jefferson Pytell promoted to Engineer down blaze inside an abandoned bungalow at the
at 11 “B” Photo by Kyle Rausch site of 3 previous burns. Photos by Rick McClure.

June 2019 • 25
Paid Advertisements:

TAX ALERT FOR FIREFIGHTERS!

Comprehensive Interview
The most comprehensive tax
interview in the industry

Free Review
Free review of your tax returns

Specialized Worksheets
Specialized deduction
worksheets for Firefighters

Year-Round Service
“Don’t Lose Valuable Tax Deductions We are available year-round
Under the New Tax Law.
Who Prepares Your Tax Return Matters. ”
HEWITT AL Hewitt, CFP®, ChFC,® EA NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS
FINANCIAL AND PHONE INTERVIEWS
G ROUP
4009 Mission Oaks Boulevard, Camarillo, CA 93012
(800) 573-4829 www.HEWITTFINANCIAL.com

ADVANCED DERMATOLOGY
AND SKIN CANCER INSTITUTE
MICHAEL T. LIN, M.D.
Adjunct Professor of Clinical Medicine, USC Diplomat, American
Board of Dermatology Fellow, American Society for Mohs Surgery
SKIN CANCER TREATMENTS NORMALLY COVERED
BY WORK COMP, PPO AND MEDICARE
• Exposed to the sun for long periods of time at work?
• Have questions about filing your workers’ compensation claim?
WE PROVIDE PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY WITH BLUE LIGHT
TO PREVENT SKIN CANCER, MOHS SKIN CANCER SURGERY, BURNS,
SCARS, HAND ECZEMA AND LASER REMOVAL.
Workers’ Compensation, QME, AME, PQME, Personal Injury Cases,
Expert Witness Consulting and Medical Legal
Locations:
• 28049 Smyth Drive Valencia, CA 91355
• 15477 Ventura Boulevard, Suite 100,
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
• 416 North Bedford Drive, Suite 100,
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
• 1801 Solar Drive, Suite 150, Oxnard, CA 93030
mail: Contact us today!
P.O. Box 41903 We accept most WC, PPO
Los Angeles CA 90041 and Medicare Insurance

phone: visit: Richard Austria (661) 705-9704

(800) 244-3439 www.LAFRA.org Charmaine Chavez (661) 705-9712
Phone: (818) 906-6900•Fax: (661) 702-1701
www.theadsci.com

26 • June 2019
 It took less than 30 minutes to extinguish a fire at 11230
Borden Avenue on 4/9/19. Photo by Cesar Parvool

On 4/14/19 @ 03:01 LAFD han- On 4/14/19 @ 02:30 LAFD responded

dled an auto fire at Highwater Rd x to reports of a structure fire at 21001 W
Bryan Pl. Photo by Brandon Buckley Plummer St. Photo by Brandon Buckley

June 2019 • 27
Paid Advertisements:

Land
CALL TODAY
for the best land
and cruise packages!
&cruise VACAT I O N S

Kimi Jackson
818-510-6516 | 888-585-9932 12521 El Dorado Place,
smoothd reamztravel.com Victorville, CA 92392
kimi.jackson@cruiseplanners.com
FLST# 39068 • CST# 2034468-50 • HST# TAR-7058 • WAST# 603-399-504
Phn: 1-800-971-4808
Fax: 1-800-971-4809
info@TriStateSigns.com

28 • June 2019
 Physical rescue extrication on Roscoe Bl
on 4/21/19. Photo by Jacob Salzman

04/29/19. Station 105 handles an overturned

vehicle with injuries. Photo by Leo Kaufman

Paid Advertisement:

June 2019 • 29
 94’s attempts to calm the panic at the Nipsey
Hussle vigil on Slauson near Crenshaw on 4/2/19.

Deputy Chief Ronnie Villanueva and A/C Jaime Moore con-

gratulate Drew Fortier on his promotion to Captain I at FS 34-C Danny Albarran promoted to Captain II at FS 92-C

30 • June 2019
Christopher Donahue promoted to Apparatus Operator at FS 92-C Todd Harris promoted to Captain I at FS 68-C

Members recognized on 4/2/19 for their coordinated effort in sav-

ing the life of a Pacific Palisades resident. Photo by Alex Gillman

June 2019 • 31
 4/25/19. Demo of the Un-
manned Aerial System (UAS) for
Councilmember Blumenfield and
his staff. Photo by Alex Gillman

LAFRA Trustee Gene Bednarchik received a

generous donation from the Valley Profession-
als Business Owners group for the WODFF

Drill Tower Recruit Class 18-2 participating in a prescribed

burn in Spunky Canyon. Photo by CI Marotta

32 • June 2019
I
’m Art Sorrentino, another old retired guy,
class of 2002, sitting in for Mark Khitikian
for a while. He’s probably on his Harley
trying to fight his way through a blizzard some-
where.
Because I am short the management
asked me to keep this short so I will.
I used to be the Battalion 17 writer
for the Grapevine, way back, when you could
laugh at someone who did dumb things and no-
body would run sniveling to I.A., or whatever
they call it these days. Admittedly, there were a
couple of times when people were gunning for
me but it didn’t get me to the graveyard.
For instance, one morning after I re-
tired, I stopped at 93’s where I had worked
for eight years before retiring. Engineer Steve
Ryder was doing his morning checks and we
were just shooting the breeze when around the
back of the engine walked a firefighter who had
recently seen his name in the Grapevine . . .
again. I had been warned never to mention him
in the Grapevine again, but it was a good story,
so there it was.
When he walked around the engine and
saw me, I had a near death experience, but that
was the only time it had happened. I was with-
in arms-length of dying. Steve and I still bring
that up every now and then and laugh about it.
If anyone would like to hear about
things that we used to be able to say and do, but
today are firing squad offenses please, let me
know. You can reach me at s.skipsor@gmail.
com
Some of them will have to be changed
a little in order to keep me out of court but
they will be a close as possible to the original
story. And with a little luck, I will be back next
month.
Almost forgot the monthly quiz. If
you think you know the answer, you can buy
me dinner at The Habit. Or just email me the
answer.
Monthly Quiz
What are these guys doing and what are they
doing it with? (See photo on right)
The Last of the True Heroes
A Tribute to Captain Jim Shaw
By Alan Miller
He’s the last of the true heroes
As off to the fire he goes
Siren screaming, heart pumping fast
With the courage only a fireman knows
He’s the last of the true heroes
Engaging the fire as it grows
Risking it all to help others in need
Manning the fireman’s hose
It’s the daily life of the fireman
The physical labor is hard
Its work that is dirty and dangerous
In a way that one can’t disregard
Jumoing at a moment’s notice
Waking to the fire alarm
Donning heavy clothes and equipment
In hopes it will keep them from harm
Racing across town in traffic
In daylight or late in the night
Dragging out heavy hoses and ladders
Putting their all into their firefight
Rescuing those who are trapped or collapsed
Doing thir best to get deveryone out
The last of the true heroes jumo into action
Helping others is what they’re about
Wielding their axes and flashlights
Busting their way through the smoke and the
flame
The fireman work as a skillfull team
Hard at the game ‘till the fire is tamed
But make no mistake—it’s a deadly game
With smoke and the flames and the heat
People get burned and people can die
But fireman hopes it is death he will cheat
And after its out, there’s the mop-up
The notiflying next-of-kins
Wrapping the hoses and cleaning the trucks
To be ready the next time a fire begins
It’s the dangerous work of a fireman
Answering the fire alarm’s call
The last of the true heroes find their glory
Protecting, in service to all
June 2019 • 33
PHYSICAL RESCUE
Hansen Dam
Photo by Mike Meadows

At 9:31AM on April 21, 2019 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to reports of a rider and horse stuck in mud in the Hansen Dam area.
While the rider freed himself prior to LAFD arrival, the horse still remained stuck in deep mud. Working together with the rider (to reduce stress on the
horse) and additional horsemen who were on scene, the firefighters used a rope rescue system and assisted the horse in slowly walking out of the mud.

34 • June 2019
 SALVAGE YARD FIRE
San Pedro
Photos by Ray Zimmerman

On 4/21/19, Battalion 6 companies battle a stubborn salvage yard fire with heavy streams.

June 2019 • 35
36 • June 2019
 Y
our Uniform provides not only
protection from flames but em-
powers you to belong to an offi-
cial force. Without words, your uniform
– in unvaried appearance, distinctive de-
sign, material and color - communicates
professionalism and organization. It
separates the uniform from the civilian.
Courageously, it represents honor, tradi-
tion, solidarity, and above all - authority.
Your Uniform stands for high-
ly functioning teams and works hard to
brand the organization to become recogniz-
able by its customers. It increases the identifica-
tion of the membership and allows for firefighters to do work within
the homes, businesses, and communities you serve. It portrays an in-
tentional image that evokes confidence amongst firefighters about their
appearance and the effects on the environment in which they operate.
Powerful at best, it can change the mood of people in their most critical
time and allow for order to settle in.
Your Uniform provides for a sense of belonging and subcon-
sciously influences the men and women of the organization to care for
each other, be thoughtful about their actions and value each other’s rank.
TF 27 dons their “blues” to represent honor, solidarity and authority. Circa 1988
Proudly, it unites the masses, communicates
conformity and commands the respect of
its most hardened critics. It defines trust
amid peers, and clearly reflects, not only
the individual, but arguably the entire
nation’s Fire Service.
Your Uniform is nothing with-
out the user. It only rises to the occa-
sion of symbolism when worn by the
firefighter with respect. It is only en-
hanced to its potential when the consumer
is thoughtful about the careful attention to
detail. It is only strengthened when the men
and women of the organization decide to be inten-
tional about the construction of the threads, the sheen of the leather, the
axis of the ornaments, and most importantly the reflection of the badge.
Your Uniform has been worn proudly by the firefighters of the
Los Angeles Fire Department for more than 130 years. It has evolved
over time to enhance safety, provide for usability and distinguish our
team. Its impressive characteristics should be worn with greatness and
never be misrepresented or altered with personal taste.
Your Uniform should be appreciated, praised for the work it
will do throughout the day and admired for its time-honored distinction.
June 2019 • 37
 Lake McClure, located 27 miles east of Merced, has been the “Hot Spot” for many years.

The Boat & Ski Club reunites for two annual trips each summer. An entire area is
reserved exclusively for family and friends of the LAFD. Each week includes a “Meet For Information & Reservations
& Greet” Potluck, Horseshoe and Volleyball Tournaments, Ice Cream Social, Raffles, please contact Tony Arnado - (310)
Bingo, Tie Dye, Karaoke, and a whole lot more. 625-8099.

Whether you are a Water Skier, Wake Boarded, Skurfer, Air Chairer, Tuber or just a The resort now offers cabins for
Sun Bather, there is FUN for Everyone!
rent - welcoming families who do

not own their own recreational ve-
A BIG thank you to all of our Supporters and Sponsors: Sports LTD, Knott’s
hicles. Go to http://www.lakemc
Berry Farm, Interstate Batteries - Sun Valley, Tilley’s Marine - Ventura, Eric Ericcson’s
- Ventura, Aloha Steakhouse & Charnell Smith - Ventura, Billy’s Boardshop - Castaic, clure.com/index.cfm/camping1/

Ocean Potion and Wendy Cant! barrett-cove/park-model-cabins/

for more information.
Please support those who support our Club!

38 • June 2019
O
n Saturday, March 30th at Fire Station Fire Chief Ralph Terrazas shaved LAFD co- Firefighter Greg Balandran.
89, LA City firefighters and police offi- organizer Danny Wu’s dome, and new LAPD Thank you also to all that volunteered,
cers shaved their heads in solidarity to Police Chief Michel Moore looked entertained pledged, participated, and brought your fami-
support children who have lost their hair from as he began buzzing LAPD co-organizer Lieu- lies out for a worthy cause. A special token of
cancer treatments. By raising money through tenant Greg Doyle’s hair in front of an approv- gratitude goes out to Fire Station 89 for hosting
pledges to cut their hair, shavees like LAFD ing crowd. Councilmember Paul Krekorian the event, ACE Party Rentals in North Holly-
firefighter Rudy Rocha help the St. Baldrick’s also made an appearance as his council office wood for donating event supplies, and LAPD
Foundation by funding research grants specifi- graciously donated all the tables and chairs, Detective Nick Sinclair for his hard work and
cally designated towards finding a cure. More while former LAFD Cadet Stephen Celi and enthusiasm as a new LAPD co-organizer.
than $55K was raised from this year’s event ¬– his talented band “Dark Desert Highway” en- We look forward to seeing you all next
bringing the total through 17 years to over $1.2 tertained the crowd with live music in collabo- year, and remember it’s not too late to donate
million dollars! ration with donated DJ services from LAFD online at: www.stbaldricks.org/events/lafdlapd
Like events in the past, this year’s event
was “all about the kids.” Magicians from the
Magic Castle mesmerized the little ones with
their tricks, Frozen actresses Elsa and Anna
from Your Magical Party posed for pictures
with the children, LAFD S&M’s talented art-
ist Derrick Tinsley drew amazing kids’ cari-
catures, and families enjoyed exploring the
LAPD Historical Society’s vintage patrol cars
and having their photo taken in Laura Lich-
ter’s LAPD motorbike picture booth. LAFD
Captain Cody Weireter arrived in the famous
Bandwagon fire engine and families waited pa-
tiently to take pictures with the vintage appara-
tus. As with tradition, the crowd enjoyed a deli-
cious free pancake and sausage breakfast from
Pancake Factory North Hollywood as food
for hundreds of hungry mouths was cooked
on UFLAC’s “Mother of All Barbecues.” The
crowd quenched their hunger and thirst fur-
ther with drinks/snacks from KENK USA’s
Kelly Khoury, Huntington Hospital’s Jackie
Baca-Geary recruited donors for their blood
drive, and LAFD Firefighter Roger Sackaroff
stopped by to support the Be the Match bone
marrow registration effort in support of his son
Jesse.
Los Angeles Police Federal Credit
Union employee Kevin Le again helped orga-
nize an amazing silent auction (with donations
by the LA City Employees Club, Home Depot,
Sears, LAPD Air Support Division, Fire Axe
Inc., So Cherry Cute, Fire Attire, and others)—
contributing more than $3700 to this year’s
event! Grey’s Anatomy actor Jason Winston
George and LAFD Dispatcher Deby Herdich
both smiled as seasoned event barbers who
shaved heads like pros while Civil Air Patrol
Cadet Post Advisor Shawnie Livera stepped
up to have her annual head shaving! LAFD

June 2019 • 39
O
n Saturday, April 6, 2019, firefighters, photographers, and
volunteers all gathered at Maggiano’s Little Italy Restaurant
in Woodland Hills not to work, but instead to be honored for
their contributions and service to the Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief
Association.
Our event coordinator, Juliet Brandolino, who once again went
out of her way to make all in attendance feel welcomed and appreciated.
Captain Frank Aguirre emceed the event. Frank was great, filling in for
our president, Bob Steinbacher who regrettably had a last-minute emer-
40 • June 2019
gency and was unable to attend. During the festivities, great conversa-
tion went hand-in-hand with the scrumptious food as certain individuals
were singled out for their outstanding service to the Association.
Though it wasn’t possible to have everyone at the event who
has contributed to our cause over the years, LAFRA still wants it to be
known that without the personal sacrifice of all concerned, the day to
day operations of the Relief Association would not be possible. For that
we honor and most graciously thank all the volunteers for your selfless
commitment to our organization.

O
n Sat/Sun April 13th/14 th, the Fire
Hogs once again ventured out to
Solvang for a relaxing weekend of
comraderie. This was the 15th year for this
scenic, coastal ride that has become a favorite
event for our motorcycle riders. This year’s
group of about 30 bikes (couples & singles),
started out with a morning “meet ‘n greet” at
Cronies Sports Grill in Newbury Park. The
route was set for an easy ride along the coast
through Santa Barbara and on to Solvang.
The first stop was at The Cold Springs
Tavern in San Marcos Pass. Since 1865, this
has been a favorite stagecoach watering hole
for weary riders. The group then continued
on Hwy 154, past Lake Cachuma, into the
Santa Ynez Valley. Next stop, The Maverick,
in Santa Ynez. At this Old West saloon, lunch
and refreshments hit the spot. Nothin’ like sit-
tin’ on the front porch there, havin’ a cold one,
watchin’ the oak trees and fields blow in the
wind. A tough place to leave... but then it was
on thru Solvang and into Buellton to get a room
for the night.
The newly renovated Sideways Inn ho-
tel offered great accommodations, service, and
even complimentary breakfast! With the iron
horses secured, the group boarded their private
shuttle for dinner at the Firestone Brewing Co.
in Buellton. After a great meal, it was back on
the shuttle for some friendly nightlife. Some
went back to the Maverick, and others to the
local casino, or wine tasting. But many ended
up at the Sideways Inn Lounge for more cama-
raderie to finish up the night.
On Sunday, after a great breakfast at
Ellen’s Pancakes, the group saddled up for a
morning country ride through the Santa Ynez
Valley. The route went past beautiful farmland,
ranches, vineyards and wineries. The bikes
cruised through the charming historic town
of Los Olivos (est.1897), and finished up at
the Santa Ynez Cafe. On the way home riders
stopped for lunch at Island Brewing Co. in the
quaint coastal town of Carpinteria. It was then
“ADIOS” until next time.
Absolutely perfect weather, great scen-
ery, and good times all made for an excellent
ridin’ weekend. THANK YOU’S go out the
riders, family, and friends that participated in
this year’s trip. All riders are always welcome
to this event, so join us next time for the six-
teenth year of the Solvang Ride.
Fire Hogs events are posted on our
website www.firehogs.org. Membership in
the Fire Hogs MC is always open for active or
retired firefighters. We welcome new riders to
one of first fire department motorcycle clubs in
the nation. If you are interested in joining the
Fire Hogs, contact any of the board members
from our website. As a national organization,
we are also accepting applications for new Fire
Hogs chapters from other agency riders. Join
us on Facebook @Fire Hogs M/C. Like our
Facebook page@ L.A.F.D. Fire Hogs.
June 2019 • 41
T
here is a long list of fatal hazards
that come with the job of firefight-
er: falls, burns, smoke inhalation,
crashes, trauma. But the leading cause
of firefighter deaths is an unseen killer –
heart disease.
Dr. Denise L. Smith, director of the
First Responder Health and Safety Labo-
ratory at Skidmore College in New York,
said, “Firefighters face many dangers, but
the greatest risk is from underlying cardio-
vascular disease in combination with the
physiological strain that the work places
on the firefighters.”
Everyone recognizes that lifestyle
changes in nutrition, exercise and stress
management can help to lower your risk of
cardiovascular diseases and events. In ad-
dition, there are a few safety measures you
should take immediately after working on
the fireground.
“exposure to NUTRITION CHOICES
Poor food choices can damage
extreme heat on
the heart and cause heart diseases. Some
the fireground foods may increase cholesterol, blood
can cause inju- pressure, insulin levels, inflammation, and
ry to the heart obesity. Foods to limit are those that in-
clude saturated and trans fats, highly pro-
muscle in healthy cessed foods, refined sugar, and alcohol.
firefighters” These foods not only damage the heart,
but are highly palatable and may cause
hydration and an increase in blood being overeating.
diverted to the skin to help the body cool Aside from good food choices, get
down.” an idea of your maintenance calories, the
From these findings, the research- number of calories needed to maintain a
ers concluded that taking time immediate- healthy body weight and, limit adipose tis-
ly after working on the fireground to limit sue. Most nutrition labels are based on a
heat exposure, cool down, and rehydrate 2,000 calorie per day diet, but the number
simple are ways to reverse any cardiovas- of calories you should intake varies by in-
cular risks. dividuals.

POST FIREGROUND
PRECAUTIONS
Being exposed to extreme heat in
the fireground not only poses risk of burn
injuries, but increases risk of cardiovas-
cular diseases and cardiac arrest. Cardi-
ologist Nicholas Mills said, “These harsh
conditions can cause injury to the heart
muscle in healthy firefighters and may
explain the link between fire suppression
and risk of heart attacks.” According to
the American Heart Association, exposure
to extreme heat and physical exertion may
trigger the formation of blood clots and
impair blood vessel function.
In 2017, a study was published on
19 nonsmoking, healthy firefighters who
participated in fire stimulation exercises in
temperatures reaching up to 752 degrees
Fahrenheit. Dr. Mills said they found that
“lower blood pressure immediately fol-
lowing fire suppression is likely due to de-
42 • June 2019
 Heart healthy foods will improve
the function of your heart and blood ves-
sels. Heart healthy foods include:
• Fish
• Nuts & Berries
• Flaxseeds
• Oatmeal
• Dark beans
• Greens
• Fruits
• Tomatoes
These foods are rich in Omega
3’s, vitamin C, good cholesterol (HDL),
and phytonutrients. Foods that are nutri-
ent rich, anti-inflammatory and satiating
are all important to maintaining a healthy
body weight and keeping your heart
healthy.
TYPES OF EXERCISE
In the past, aerobic exercise was
seen as the best form of exercise and only
the form of exercise recommended to
maintain a healthy heart; however, recent
research indicates that exercise that builds
strength can benefit the heart more than
aerobic activities. Strength and resistance
training not only promote weight loss, but
improve body composition. Creating lean
body mass and increasing muscle makes it
easier for your body to burn more calories
and maintain a healthy weight.
This does not mean you need to
completely eliminate aerobic activities.
Dr. Maia P. Smith, an assistant professor at
St. George’s University, states that a com-
bination of both strength training and aer-
obic exercise is best to maintain a healthy
heart.
STRESS MANAGEMENT
There needs to be more research
to determine how stress directly contrib-
utes to heart diseases; however, stress af-
fects health factors and behaviors that are
linked to increased risks of heart diseases.
Your body is designed to react to
stress and protect you against potential
threats, but chronic stress is taxing on the
body and can damage your heart health.
Chronic stress may increase blood pres-
sure, increased cholesterol, cause irregular
heart rhythms, damage arteries, and weak-
ened the immune system.
It is important to cope with stress
in a healthy way, because some behaviors
that are prompted by stress only increase
risk of heart diseases. These behaviors in-
clude:
• Smoking
• Overeating
• Drug use
• Alcohol consumption
• Physical inactivity
To alleviate and cope with stress,
Mayo Clinic recommends these stress
management strategies:
• Healthy diet
• Exercise
• Sleep
• Relaxation techniques like yoga,
breathing exercises, meditation, etc.
• Professional counseling
Taking these steps after working
on the fireground and making healthy
lifestyle choices will help you live a long,
heart healthy life.
June 2019 • 43
 GAIL MANNING, Capt. I/Paramedic, MFC-B MIKE RADEN, Engineer, FS 69-A
SUNDAY, JUNE 2, 2019 SATURDAY, JUNE 8, 2019
Knollwood Country Club
Rockin R (Raden Home)
12040 Balboa Blvd, Granada Hills CA
BBQ Dinner - 5:00 PM
Social Hour - 11:00 AM Buffet Lunch - 12:00 PM
Call Fire Station 69 - (310) 575-8569
$45 per person includes tax & tip
All are welcome!
Donations accepted. All money will go to the
Call Natalie Goshi-Forney at MFC - (213) 576-8900
Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firefighters Fund
Please RSVP by May 27

MARCUS A. LIDY, Fire Inspector I,

STEVE PEREZ, FS 87 Harbor Industrial Unit

SUNDAY, JUNE 30, 2019 SATURDAY, JULY 20, 2019

Fire Station 87 Brouwerij West Brewery - Warehouse 9

10124 Balboa Blvd, Granada Hills CA 110 E. 22nd Street, San Pedro CA

7: 30 AM - 11:00 AM Luncheon - 12:00 Noon

Retirement Breakfast - No cost BBQ Tri Tip, Chicken or Vegan - $40 per person

All are invited Call Harbor Industrial Unit (310) 732-4580

RSVP by July 12, 2019

DOUG WEBER, Captain I, FS 17-C

DAVID REJINO, Captain I, FS 72-B
WEDNESDAY, JULY 31, 2019
TUESDAY, AUGUST 6, 2019
Huntington Bay Club
4121 Warner Avenue, Huntington Beach CA Walnut Grove at Tierra Rejada Farms
3370 Sunset Valley Road, Moorpark CA

Start Time - 5:00 PM End Time - 9:00 PM BBQ Dinner – 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM

$50 per person $60 per person includes dinner, tax & gift

Call Renee Weber - (951) 453-3308 or Call Fire Station 72 (818) 756-8672
email: Reneeweb24@icloud.com RSVP by July 23, 2019

44 • June 2019
O
nce again, LAFD members across the
city stepped up to pound the pavement
and participate in this year’s Muscular
Dystrophy Association (MDA) “Fill the Boot”
campaign. Over the years, the Department has
collected hundreds of thousands of dollars that
is used to fund clinics at local university hos-
pital affiliated clinics, pay for support groups,
and send children with neuromuscular disease
to summer camp. The money collected is also
used to fund projects to find the causes and
cures for more than 40 neuromuscular dis-
eases.

June 2019 • 45
O
n April 10, 2019, 75 of our active and retired seniors from the
LAFD Golf Club met at the beautiful Rio Hondo Golf Course in
Downey for our Seniors Club Championship. It was a warm and
breezy day. The course was in good but not great condition due to the
greens being punched only a week prior to our tournament. However, the
BBQ lunch was very tasty.
We had four flights of golfers ranging from 52 to 80 years old. In
the A Flight, ages 52 thru 58, the Low Gross and Low Net Champions
are Gary Gatena (winner of the previous three Seniors Championships)
with a 74 and Eric Anderson with a net 69. In the B Flight, ages 59 thru
62, the Low Gross and Low Net Champions are Kelly Faulkner with a
The tournament results are as follows:
A Flight Gross
A Flight Net
B Flight Gross
B Flight Net
A Flight Gross Champion B Flight Gross and Net Champions
Gary Gatena Kelly Faulkner and Robert Franz
46 • June 2019
78 and Robert Franz with a net 71. In the C Flight, ages 63 thru 69½, the
Low Gross and Low Net Champions are Dale Gant with a 73 and Mike
Fulmis with a net 68. And in the D Flight, ages 69½ and above, the Low
Gross and Low Net Champions are Gary Klasse with a 78 and Bill Stires
with a net 64.
Dale Gant and Bill Stires will represent our club at the SCGA
Tournament of Club Champions later this year. Congratulations to all
flight champs!
I’d like to thank my fellow Board members for their assistance at
the tournament. I hope to see all of you again next year.
C Flight Net and Gross Champions
Mike Fulmis and Dale Gant
 Senior Low Gross Champion D Flight Net and Gross Champions
Dale Gant Bill Stires and Gary Klasse

C Flight Gross

C Flight Net

D Flight Gross

D Flight Net

O
n March 29, the LAFD Golf Club played the Annual Maltese
Cup Match against the LA County Fire Golf Club. This year
the match was held at Tijeras Creek Golf Club in Rancho Santa
Margarita. Each side had 21 golfers and, as it usually is, it was a close
match with the good guys prevailing 24½ to 21½.
I want to thank my counterpart with the County, John Laur, for
the assistance in putting the tournament together. We’ll be doing it again
next year.
Needless to say, a good time was had by all.

- LACoFD John Laur relinquishing the Maltese Cup

to Noel Murchet after the City beat the County

June 2019 • 47

In Memory of Ramey R, Stroud—
Captain
Ramey Stroud was the AutoFireman
at Fire Station 1-A in 1975, my first house.
He was a down to earth gentleman first, be-
fore his rank. I want to thank you Ramey
for the guidance and respect you gave me
as a rookie and new member of the LAFD
family. I remember on one of our first runs,
you were conditioning your horses’ blind-
ers as you were giving me info and tips on
roof ops. As we chatted, he placed them (the
blinders) on the siren, that just happened to
be placed right in the middle of the old Sea-
graves hood. Suddenly we get a run, and ev-
eryone to their places on the Truck, Wagon,
and Pump. When we return from the false
alarm, Captain Criemen stops in front of the
truck, shakes his head towards Stroud and
points to the blinders on the siren and walks
away. Stroud completely forgot that he had
placed the blinders there, and looked at me
and smiled. I would like to think that Strouds
reply to Cap. was, sorry but I was explaining
to the rookie about the old days. That aside,
Ramey Stroud never tried to trick me in any
way when it came to firefighting tactics or
station house life, thanks loads.
The Guz
In Memory of Rafael A. Lopez
Ray Lopez & Bob Lostetter were the
2 Firemen I first worked with as a rookie @
13’s in Jan.1978. Ray was a great friend &
teacher for a 1st house rookie. I am so sad &
48 • June 2019
In Memory of Erin Lennox-Roulston—
Firefighter II
We will miss you Grandpa Bird!
Thank you for so many happy memories!
And thank you for serving the community
as a Firefighter! You were a courageous man
and a good grandfather!
Erin Lennox-Roulston
In Memory of Francis R. Motheral—Bat-
talion Chief
Rayne was born June 7, 1926, to LT
sorry I missed his service. The five of us (C1
Ricks and Edward Albert Motheral in Yuba
John Nuttman, Eng Gil Turner) on E-13 was
City, CA. LT raised Rayne and his brother,
a great experience, reserve ‘58 Mack, 1st rig.
Gail, with whom he was very close, in the
God Bless Ray & many prayers for his fam-
San Joaquin Valley. Upon graduating from
ily …
Caruthers High School, Gail went into the
Coast Guard, while Rayne joined the Ma-
Phil Weireter
rines. His tour of duty consisted of Mop up
Class of Nov.1977
operations in Guam and Hiroshima at the
close of WWII. Using the GI Bill, Rayne
entered U.C. Berkeley, and graduated with a
Dear Diane and Valerie,
degree in biology. While at CAL, he became
a founding member of the U.C Hiking Club
Thank you for your kindness—re-
and participated with members climbing in
membering my birthday! Unexpected and a
Yosemite. At the time, gear was basic, con-
lovely gesture. How nice it is to know the
sisting of tennis shoes and hemp rope with
Relief Association is there and you kind peo-
real nuts and bolts for protection. Up until
ple are there.
recently early members of the club held re-
unions every year in a wilderness area—sixty
Thank you again,
plus years of sustained friendship. Climbing
stuck with Rayne, and he summited many
Althea Marano
peaks, including Aconcagua, Kilimanjaro
twice, and Mt. McKinley with the Canyon
Explorer’s Club. Rayne had a great sense of
In Memory of Jamie W. Remy—
humor and equanimity which undoubtedly
Captain
served him well in fire department manage-
Jamie was a character. When I first
ment positions and made him popular with
met him, he was at Fire Station 4. At that
friends. He passed on March 12, 2019.
time the Squad was busy and he hated not
going to all the fires we were going to. So,
Mary Motheral
he would rotate on the Squad to go to fire
with us. The one thing I will say he will be
remembered for was the 3rd and Bixel fire,
LAFRA,
(it was supposed to be just a drill). I still have
the video of the great drill and car wash. Rip
Please accept this donation in mem-
Jamie
ory of a very, very dear friend, Angelo Con-
cepcion “Pops” Ramirez. I had the pleasure
Ed Tapia
of meeting “Pops” in 1957, while he was
assigned to old Fire Station 70, in Lincoln
Heights, across from Lincoln High School.
He was the hero in the neighborhood, he
cared about his community and his people, a
fireman that we could talk to and look up to.
His indoctrination about the LAFD
started early. And I was fascinated, even at What Is The...
the age of six. What kid wouldn’t be? He
would ask, “Rudy, don’t you want to be a
Los Angeles Fireman?” Then, after a ride on
“Big Red,” a 1951 Seagrave, again, “Rudy,
Extinguisher Fund?
don’t you want to be a Los Angeles Fire-
man?” The brain child of Ted Bailie, retired from the
I respected the man so much that it
was difficult to answer him truthfully. This LAFD and LAFRA, your station’s Extinguisher Fund
six year finally got the gumption and said, is a simple way to collect donations for the Widows,
“Mr. Ramirez, I don’t want to be a Los An-
geles Fireman. I want to be a Los Angeles Orphans and Disabled Firefighters’ Fund. Ted saw the
Dodger!”
Needless to say, I didn’t get to Dodg-
accumulation of change that the cook dumped into the
er Stadium, but in 1977, I had the privilege mess fund box each shift and had a better idea. If this
and the honor of joining the LAFD. Then, as
fate would have it, and by the Grace of God,
change was instead collected for the WODFF he figured
I had the fortune of working with him at 55’s it could really add up. With an average of 50 cents per
in 1986. Once again, thirty years later, this
neighborhood hero defended the community.
day per station, in a year there would be...well, you
We learned that the fire department has made can do the math!
the decision to shut down 55’s, both rescue
and engine. Three of us—Royce Turner, So take your turn in the cooking rotation and
“Pops” Ramirez, and myself, decided to remember to drop all your change into your station’s
express our concern to Councilman Ala-
torre. My wonderful Captain Turner retired, extinguisher. There should be one in every firehouse.
“Pops” Ramirez got transferred to 16’s. and I And any loose change in your pockets, any that you
got three years of “Freeway,” But, new 55’s
DID get built. find in the TV chairs, or hoarded in the “ashtray” of
Working with this childhood hero, to- your vehicle can be thrown in for good measure.
ward the end of his career, was truly a bless-
ing. Even after, “My Therapy,” I wouldn’t The Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firefighters’
trade any minute of any hour of any shift
of my 36 years. He was absolutely correct,
Fund is the heart of the Relief Association. This fund
“The greatest job in the world.” I miss you provides assistance to our firefighters and families
Pops. God bless you. Rest in peace, until we
meet again.
who are faced with personal difficulties and tragedies.
Donations are the sole means of support for this Fund.
Rodolfo “Rudy” Martinez
Firefighters risk their lives to protect the
community on a daily basis. Thus, they and their
Dear Diane and Valerie and all in the of-
fice at LAFRA, families can be comforted in knowing that the “Fire
Department Family,” supported by the Widows, Or-
Your kind words touched my heart. I
had a very happy birthday and looking for- phans & Disabled Firefighters’ Fund, is there for them
ward to a healthy and wonderful New Year! in times of need.
Fondly,

Susan Castillo
June 2019 • 49
 MEMBERS
Ross L. Williams, Battalion Chief.
Appointed April 30, 1960.
Retired on a disability pension July 1, 1984 from Planning.
Passed away April 19, 2019.

Leroy J. Lucas, Battalion Chief.

Appointed February 3, 1958.
Retired on a service pension July 4, 1988 from FS 37 BN 9.
Passed away May 2, 2019.

Elias De La Hoz, Firefighter III.

Appointed April 1, 1957.
Retired on a service pension June 8, 1982 from FS 75-C.
Passed away May 3, 2019.

William M. Horton, Firefighter II.

Appointed April 1, 1957.
Retired on a disability pension July 5, 1973 from FS 104-B.
Passed away May 8, 2019.

FAMILY
Nancy M. Reed, surviving spouse of Robert L. Reed, passed away April 8, 2019.
Bernice E. Carson, spouse of David D. Carson, passed away April 12, 2019.
Norma Lahickey, spouse of John Lahickey, passed away April 15, 2019.
Joan L. Claytor, spouse of Robert V. Claytor, passed away April 20, 2019.
Judith A. Marion, spouse of William L. Marion, passed away April 20, 2019.
Leanor M. Jackson, surviving spouse of Billy J. Jackson, passed away April 24, 2019.
Rose M. Disney, Jr., spouse of Verne W. Disney, Jr., passed away April 29, 2019.

50 • June 2019
O
n the evening of February 28, 2019, over 100 family
members, friends and co-workers gathered at The Oaks
Club in Valencia to honor Firefighter Julio Maldonado.
Julio completed over 34 years of dedicated service to the citizens
of Los Angeles, 27 of those at OCD/Metro.
The dinner started off with an invocation by Pastor Fer-
nando Villicana, a long-time friend of Julio. Dinner was buffet
style with all the fixings. The cake that was truly a work of art,
succumbed to the traditional center core job by a couple of un-
named members. The stand in MC for the night, Dennis Garza,
also a long-time member of OCD/Metro, did an outstanding job
keeping the show going.
The first presentation of the evening was by Captain Jorge
Perez, handing over the Personal Record Book, followed by Cap-
tain Sean Hughes who talked about Julio’s dedication to his fam-
ily and the Department. Sean also presented Julio with his Cer-
tificate of Retirement, signed by Fire Chief Terrazas.
Assistant Chief Carlos Calvillo gave the 30-year pin, one
diamond for each 10 years of service. Presenting the Retirement
badge from the Relief Association was Battalion Chief Gene Bed-
narchik, who mentioned how he had known but not known Julio
in their high school days. Next presentation was from UFLAC,
the traditional “axe” given by Captain “Alby” Albarran. A few
other items, such as a bag of Fritos was passed on and Ed Mena
(ret) presented Julio with a number of items such as hair spray for
Julio’s full head of hair. A group from the Fire Hogs Motorcycle
Group presented Julio with a Medieval looking style axe, and for
the main gift, Captain Tom Sammartano (ret) gave Julio a replica
fire truck which Tom dolls up and makes for retiring members.
Then a group photo signed by some of Julio’s closest friends on a
trip to Las Vegas was presented by the MC, Dennis Garza.
In all it was a fabulous send off to one of the most knowl-
edgeable resource controllers this department has ever had. Julio,
I speak for all those members past and present that worked with
you, a long, healthy and happy retirement. Good luck and may
the Lord be with you.
June 2019 • 51
 Submitted by Frank Borden • Director of Operations, LAFDHS

LAFD HISTORY – The Central Library Fire - April 29, 1986

Frank’s Note: Thirty three years ago,
the LAFD fought one of the most difficult
structure fires in its history. I am sure there are
a few people on the job today that responded
to the fire and remember it well. Many of us
who are retired will never forget it. The fire
reached 2000 degrees and burned for seven
hours. By the time it was extinguished, it had
consumed four hundred thousand books and
damaged seven hundred thousand more. I
have included my experiences with the first
and second library fires.
A best-selling book written by Susan
Orlean entitled “The Library Book” discusses
an in-depth look at the fire and its long term
impact and takes a broader look at libraries.
I am including a great story written by
Larry Horner about his experiences in the fire
with Glenn Miyagishima while they responded
with Engine 10. His story is an excellent first-
hand account of being in the tier section in
a very dangerous situation for both of them.
Thanks Larry.
they dispatched Task Force 3 & 9, Engine 10,
Squad 4 and Battalion 1. First arriving compa-
nies had nothing showing but the 400 library
workers and patrons were evacuating. As fire-
fighters were making their way through the
labyrinth of books to the fire, they encountered
heavy smoke and heat.
The first alarm assignment was aug-
mented by one of the largest commitment of
resources to a structure fire in the history of the
LAFD: 60 fire companies, including 21 task
forces, 23 single engines, 9 paramedic ambu-
lances, 3 helicopters, 2 emergency air units, 4
salvages, Heavy Utility 27, and nearly 350 fire-
fighters. Almost half of the on duty firefighters
in the City were at the incident. Deputy Chief
Don Anthony was “on scene and in charge” and
he realized that protecting the library’s collec-
tions from water would be as integral part of
a battle as firefighting and ventilations. The
fire, heat, and smoke rapidly spread upwards
through the tiers. When the heat and smoke
heat the six-inch concrete floor at the third
level it started banking down. Temperatures
in the northeast stack reached over 2,000 de-
grees. Firefighters were using their breathing
apparatus air supply in only ten minutes due
to the tremendous exertion needed to get lines
on the lines. The battle continued for hours
as the ventilation problem was severe. Heavy
Utility 27 was called in to jackhammer venti-
lation holes into the concrete third floor. Fire-
fighters continued to enter the heat and smoke
after of rotating out for a new air bottle. Fire-
fighters continued to enter the heat and smoke
after rotating out for a new air bottle. Nearly
1,400 air bottles were used at the fire. At 5:00
p.m., after over five hours of extreme firefight-
ing operations, a “knock down” was declared.
The overhaul and salvage operations lasted for
five days and the library staff and volunteered
for weeks to save the damage collections. Our
firefighters exhibited tremendous courage and
determination in battling the fire under the
most extreme and dangerous conditions while
keeping losses incredibly low.

The following story was taken from Paul Dit-

zel’s outstanding version of the event in the Fifth Street in front of the Central Library is full of apparatus as
“LAFD Century of Service” book. 350 firefighters battled one of the most difficult fires in our history.

There are in every firefighter’s career

those fires that are extraordinary and unforget-
table from the standpoint of their threat to life,
and the extreme challenges presented. The fire
in the Los Angeles Central Library on April
29, 1986 was certainly one of those historic
incidents. The Central Library was built in
1926 and designed based on the 1893 Library
of Congress. It was and it is now one of L.A.’s
cultural treasures and among the nation’s fore-
most repository of books, newspapers, maga-
zines, art, photos, recording and patents. The
heavy construction concrete and steel walls,
roof, and floors with minimal windows made
firefighting operations extremely difficult. It
was almost 11:00a.m.on April 29, 1986 when
an arsonist started a fire on the fifth tier of the
northeast stacks. Books and documents were
stored in large 49 by 43 foot stacks with nar-
row aisles and stairway access. OCD was noti-
fied that smoke detector bells were ringing and
52 • June 2019
FRANK BORDEN’S STORY OF THE
LIBRARY FIRE
I was an Assistant Chief assigned to
Division 1 at the time of the Library fire. I was
off the day of the fire but came on duty the next
morning in charge of our firefighters working
with the library staff and many volunteers in
removing the damaged books and manuscripts
from the burned areas and getting them to
facilities set up to save what they could. The
books and other materials were burned, smoke
damaged and wet. An assembly line was set
up where the firefighters would bring them out
of the still hazardous area to a waiting staff of
people who sorted them and brought them to
the waiting trucks. The LAFD still had a large
commitment of resources there doing salvage
work and saving this written history. There
were thousands of pieces of materials to deal
with and many were irreplaceable. This opera-
tion was a great example of what a large team
Aerial view of Library with 5th
St. at the bottom of the photo.
A massive task to sort all the
materials damaged by the fire.
A view of the extensive damage caused by the fire.
of people with different skills and functions
can do working together with the same mis-
sion.
Some months later I was in my Divi-
sion 1 office in Fire Station 3, not far from the
library when a dispatch came in from OCD for
all of 3’s, downtown first alarm fire companies
and Battalion 1 to respond to a reported fire
in the Central Library. What a surprise for ev-
eryone. It did not take long for me to notify
OCD that I was also responding. Upon my ar-
rival some fire companies had already located
the fire in the west wing of the library. It was
not in the location of the original fire, but was
in an art and music room. What a relief that it
was not in the main part of the Library build-
ing. I called for additional resources and we
had a “knockdown” in a relatively short period
of time. We found out through our Arson Unit
investigation that this was also an arson caused
fire.
LAFD Arson Investigators surveying the art and
music room involved in the second Library Fire.
Captain Stuckey from Engine 10 in the tiers.
“A LESSON NOT SOON FORGOTTEN”
Written by Larry Horner
Larry Horner and Glenn Miyagishima
Library Fire Story - Engine 10
I was a ten year veteran of downtown
firefighting and was to learn again, that on this
job, you don’t assume anything and you take
nothing for granted. The alarm came in about
10 a.m. for us to respond to a smoke detector
alarm at the downtown library. ”another false”
Glenn Miyagishima said as we cleared the ap-
paratus doors of the engine house. “Gish” as
we called him, was referring to the numerous
false alarms that we receive at that building
throughout the year. He was a gung-ho rookie
fireman put under my tutelage.
“Engine 10 on scene, nothing show-
ing,” radioed Cap Stuckey to the dispatcher as
we arrived. “Suit up fellas,” he said as we put
on our protective gear. Turnout pants, turnout
coat, hood, helmet, breather: now with about
thirty pounds on our backs we each threw a 20
pound hose pack over a shoulder and started
into the library.
The security guards met us at the lobby
and said that the alarm panel showed numer-
ous smoke detectors activated, but there were
no reports of any fires. They assured us that it
was only a short in the system and their per-
sonnel would fix it. So, back out to the rig we
went.
No sooner had we put the hose packs
down when people across the street pointed
out the white smoke wafting from a vent on
the roof. Picking up our hose packs again, we
hustled up the stairway to the third level of the
library to find what was burning.
“Hey Larry, over here. We’ve got some
smoke from this fire.” Hook up the line and
I’ll start in with the nozzle. Smells like paper
burning.” Gish said to me anxiously as he
unstrapped the hose and began flaking it out.
“Here is a radio Larry. Call me if you need
help. I’ll direct the rest of the task force in to
back us up.” Stuckey said as he disappeared
down the stairway.
I attached the hose to the wet standpipe
system and loaded it. This would tap us into the
regular in-house water system, but the pressure
could not be boosted by our pumpers. “Should
be enough to put out a small paper fire.” I fig-
ured.
The room that Gish had entered was
now full of thick, brown smoke. I couldn’t see
anything and Gish wasn’t answering my calls.
The hot, acrid smoke began to tear at my throat
and I was forced to put on my facepiece. I
hooked it up to my breather and the first breath
of cool air was refreshing. As I continued to
inch my way along the line, I unexpectedly
bounced harshly down a flight of stairs. “What
the hell’s going on here?” I asked myself.
“There aren’t supposed to be stairs in an of-
fice like this. I must have entered one of the
June 2019 • 53

Two firefighters from Task force 33
survey the extensive damage .
and the super-heated gases above us exploded
into deadly flames. The heat felt like a steam
iron above our heads and it forced us to the
floor. Needles of pain stabbed at my ears, the
only exposed part of my body. “Get out Gish,
get out!” I yelled, trying to keep my cool. We
crawled madly for the stairs. We began to
climb them, but the higher we went the hotter
it got. Our only way out was up a searing chim-
ney. I looked at Gish and I could see the panic
in his eyes. He wanted out and he was looking
to me for the answer.
I thought to myself, “Oh s*** kid. I’m
just as scared as you are.” With no time to
use the radio, I knew if we didn’t get out now
that we’d never make it out. I grabbed Gish’s
coat and headed up the stairs. He hesitated
and pulled back, but I kept going higher with
him in tow. He finally responded by running
up with me through the ceiling of flames. We
burst back into the office screaming and roll-
ing on the floor clutching our burned ears.
I got up and stood over Gish and asked,
“Nothing to this job, ha kid?” trying to take
the edge off of what we had just gone through.
”We almost died in there,” he snapped. “Nah,
it wasn’t even close.” I said, trying to convince
him as well as myself.
We staggered out to the hall where we
found Cap Stuckey and the truck company
from our task force. They had no idea of what
we had gone through and they were ready to
fight fire. We proceeded to fight that terrible
fire for five more hours, but none of it com-
pared to the few minutes we’d spent in the tiers.
RETIRED LAFD MEMBER LUNCHEON-
THURSDAY, JUNE 20TH
It’s time again for our Annual LAFD
Retired Member Luncheon at the Hollywood
Museum. All you retired members and spouses
need to mark your calendar for Thursday, June
20th and come to Old 27’s for comradery, good
food and of course our raffle. This is a one time
of the year event so plan on being there to visit
with old friends and meet some new ones. You
will have the added opportunity to see what
we have on display in the museum and find out
how the LAFD Historical Society is working
to preserve your history.
The party’s over and some of retired
members are ready to go. Some even
have raffle prizes.

JUNE 2019
Task Force 88 going to the roof
on the west side of the building.

hidden accesses to the “tiers, where the tons of

reference books are shelved, hidden from the
public”
I found Gish at the end of our hoseline.
“What’ve we got?” I asked. “I don’t know”, he
hollered back at me, barely audible through his
facepiece, ”but it’s getting hotter in here ev-
ery second. I think its over there. I can hear it
crackling.” “OK, let’s go,” I answered. About
30 more feet in we could now see the quickly
growing orange glow of fire through the now,
black smoke. The few minutes we wasted re-
lying on the security guards false information
had given the fire time to get a foothold. “Open
it up I ordered.”
Gish pulled back on the nozzle and the
once hard line went limp as the water barely
spurted ten feet. The ancient plumbing system
of the library couldn’t deliver a decent stream
of water. Our only ammunition against the fire
was now worthless.
The heat from the smoldering fire
broke out a window, and the inrush of air gave
the fire its life breath. The once obscure glow

54 • June 2019
 Donations to Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firefighters’ Fund - May 2019

KIRK BINGHAM from the Retired Firefighters’ Breakfast FIRE STATION NO. 87 from the Fire Extinguisher Fund

PETROHA WKENERGY CORPORATION FIRE STATION NO. 2

ENVIRONMENTAL CONTRACTING CORPORATION EDWARD R. DELANEY in memory of Coleman “Bud”

Lawson
JILL TEEHAN
RONALD A. KREDELL in memory of Betsy J. Petersen
HORSE SHOE TOURNAMENT
AMANDA WOODHOUSE in memory of David T. Moorman
BESSIE E. WALKER
HUGH H. CAIRNS II in memory of David T. Moorman
FIRE STATION NO. 91 from the Fire Extinguisher Fund
LON F. ROBERTS from the Antelope Valley Firemen’s
LANNAN CONSULTANTS LLC / DAVID LANNAN Breakfast Club

KEITH D. CROWNOVER in memory of David T. Moorman RICHARD L. GARNER TRUSTEE GRANT in memory of
Willie Thost
KRISTI CLARK in memory of David T. Moorman
NETWORK FOR GOOD
CHRISTINE BRUMBAUGH in memory of Mike Brumbaugh
MARY BUSH in memory of Brian Lee
HARRY M. MORCK in memory of Chavez & Motheral
MUNICIPAL EMERGENCY SERVICES in honor of all
GARY D. HIGHT in memory of Lane Kemper & Brian firefighters who have fallen or who are facing crisis
Phillips
REBEKAH KEARNS
EDWARD M. BURZINSKI II from the Retired Firefighters’
Breakfast SASHA MEJIA

HOWARD R. DUNFORD in memory of Brook Rachael FIRE STATION NO. 73 from the Fire Extinguisher Fund
Marsh
RICHARD “SULLY” & PEGGY SULLIVAN in memory of
FIRE STATION NO. 75 from the Fire Extinguisher Fund Fe and Bev Harris

BNY MELLON CORPORATIONS COMMUNITY SHANTA TROSCLAIR in honor of Jesus Christ

PARTNERSHIP

mail:
P.O. Box 41903
Los Angeles CA 90041

phone: visit:
(800) 244-3439 www.LAFRA.org

June 2019 • 55
 LOS ANGELES FIREMEN’S RELIEF ASSOCIATION MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES
April 3, 2019

CALL TO ORDER PRESIDENT’S REPORT they are able to attend the conferences they
sign up for.
President Bob Steinbacher called the Meeting 1) Bob Steinbacher provided a Pension
of the Board of Trustees of the Los Angeles meeting update including getting presentation 2) Jeff Cawdrey provided an update on the
Firemen’s Relief Association to order at 9:51 information from USI prior to their May 2nd cemetery plot inventory. He indicated that
a.m. Pension Board presentation. He indicated that there are a few issues that need to be updated
LAFRA will present to the Pension Board on and determined who owns the plots.
ROLL CALL April 18th. He stated that the Pension Board
should have a recommendation for the non- EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT
MEMBERS PRESENT: Medicare subsidy increase on May 2nd.
Bob Steinbacher, President 1) Todd Layfer provided an update on the
Jeff Cawdrey, Vice President 2) Bob Steinbacher referred to the Pechanga Hope for Firefighters event and indicated that
Trustee Frank Aguirre Reunion and indicated that everyone should we have 21 fire stations for food and beverage
Trustee Gene Bednarchik have received an email with their hotel room booths. He announced that Ralphs has agreed
Trustee Kenneth Breskin confirmation. to again sponsor our event with $25,000.
Trustee Henry Gasbarri
Trustee Rick Godinez 3) Bob Steinbacher informed that the 2) Todd Layfer referred to the Marketing
Trustee John Jacobsen Community Affairs positions started in April Associate recruitment and indicated that they
Trustee Jim Duffy and that Steve Ruda and Isaac Burkes were have narrowed it down to three candidates that
Trustee Tyler Tomich hired for the part-time positions. they will be interviewing next week.
Trustee Richard Moody
Trustee Craig White 4) Bob Steinbacher referred to Open 3) Todd Layfer referred to the Lane Kemper
Trustee Danny Wu Enrollment for medical and indicated that it Softball Tournament and indicated that they
Trustee Juan Albarran - Pension runs through the end of April 30th. have 14 teams signed up to play.
Trustee Tim Larson – Pension
Todd Layfer - Executive Director 5) Bob Steinbacher referred to Death Notices 4) Liberty Unciano reported that the Audit has
Liberty Unciano – Controller-Treasurer sent by the Relief Association and indicated been completed and indicated that they will
that they will be making some changes on the meet with the Audit Committee to discuss the
MEMBERS ABSENT: information included on the notifications. Harrington Group’s findings.
Trustee David Peters
Trustee Doak Smith – Pension 6) Todd Layfer referred to the Hook & Ladder 5) Todd Layfer reported on the Volunteer
Trustee Steve Berkery Enduro and reported that the event raised Appreciation Luncheon and indicated that it
Trustee Tim Freeman $47,000 for the WODFF. He indicated that will be on April 6th at Maggiano’s.
Trustee Mike Sailhamer this had been a record year for the event. Craig
Trustee Chris Stine White indicated that the use of the credit card INVESTMENT COMMITTEE REPORT
Trustee Gayle Sonoda readers helped with the sales for the auction
Trustee Joe Vigil items. John Jacobsen presented the following motion.

GUESTS: EXECUTIVE SESSION The committee recommends and I so move

Dave Wagner, Grapevine Editor
INVOCATION & Flag Salute
Rick Godinez led the invocation. Doak Smith
led the flag salute.
RATIFICATION OF MINUTES
Bob Steinbacher entertained a motion to ratify
and approve the Board Meeting Minutes of
March 6, 2019. Gene Bednarchik moved. Frank
Aguirre seconded. There was no discussion or
objections.
Motion carried to approve the Board Meeting
Minutes of March 6, 2019.
The Board entered into Executive Session at
10:14 a.m.
The Board adjourned from Executive session
at 11:51 a.m.
Personnel matters and member updates were
discussed in the Executive Session. No actions
were taken.
VICE PRESIDENT’S REPORT
1) Jeff Cawdrey referred to the upcoming
conferences and indicated that the Washington
Legislative Conference deadline is April
8th. He informed the Trustees that the new
IFEBP cancellation policy charges 50% of the
registration fee. He asked that they make sure
to continue with the private equity allocation
that will be divided into three separate funds,
Montauk, Performance Equity Management
and Greenspring Associates. There was no
discussion or objections.
Motion carried to continue with the private
equity allocation that will be divided into
three separate funds.
John Jacobsen referred to the upcoming
MorningStar Conference and asked that those
Trustees interested in attending to let him
know.

56 • June 2019
ADMINISTRATIVE COMMITTEE
REPORT
Frank Aguirre presented the following
motions.
The committee recommends and I so move to
pay the usual and customary bills in the amount
of $731,517.54. There was no discussion or
objections.
Motion carried to pay the usual and
customary bills in the amount of $731,517.54.
The committee recommends and I so move to
approve the three-year contract renewal with
Alternate Solutions with a 5.12% increase
effective May 1, 2019. There was no discussion
or objections.
Motion carried to approve the three-year
contract renewal with Alternate Solutions
with a 5.12% increase effective May 1, 2019.
MEDICAL COMMITTEE REPORT
Frank Aguirre presented the following motion.
The committee recommends and I so move
to approve all the medical bills totaling
$873,267.49. There was no discussion or
objections.
Motion carried to approve all the medical
bills totaling $873,267.49.
RELIEF COMMITTEE REPORT
Rick Godinez presented the following motion.
The committee recommends and I so move to
pay:
The Sick & Injury benefits in the amount of
$30,755.13
The Estate Planning benefit in the amount of
$13,546
The Relief Death Benefits in the amount of
$50,000
There was no discussion or objections.
Motion carried to pay the above Relief
benefits.
Rick Godinez read the names of members who
recently passed and asked for a moment of
silence from the Board.
MEMORIALS
Harold L. Dally
Robert G. Price
William G. Stover
Richard G. Tucker
Francis R. Motheral
William B. Wofford
Rafael A. Lopez
Robert H. Robles
Bruce H. Segelke
James J. Francesconi
ASSISTANCE COMMITTEE
Rick Godinez presented the following motions.
The committee recommends and I so move to
accept the donations in the amount of $47,206
to the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemen’s
Fund. There was no discussion or objections.
Motion carried to accept the donations in the
amount of $47,206 to the Widows, Orphans
& Disabled Firemen’s Fund.
The committee recommends and I so move to
approve the financial assistance applications for
surviving spouses, active and retired members.
There was no discussion or objections.
Motion carried to approve the financial
assistance applications for surviving spouses,
active and retired members.
ADVANCEMENT COMMITTEE
REPORT
The committee recommends and I so move
to advance funds for both active and retired
members. There was no discussion or
objections.
Motion carried to advance funds for both
active and retired members.
GRAPEVINE COMMITTEE REPORT
Danny Wu indicated that he met with the
Grapevine Editors and staff to discuss an
issue with some photos in the current issue. He
indicated that they will discuss future photos
and stories associated with them before they
are posted.
BYLAWS & POLICY
Richard Moody presented the following
motion.
The committee recommends and I so move to
accept the changes made to the Policy Book.
There was no discussion or objections.
Motion carried to approve the changes made
to the Policy Book.
SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE REPORT
Rick Godinez reported that the application
process for the Scholarship Program has closed.
He stated that they received 18 applicants and
the testing will be Saturday, April 13th. He
also indicated that the committee will review
the policy on qualification requirements for
future applicants.
MARKETING & DEVELOPMENT
REPORT
Rick Godinez reported on the L.A. Marathon
and 5K Run and indicated that it was a great
success. He reported that they had more than
100 participants and had media coverage at the
event.
SETTING OF DATES
1) LAFRA Pechanga Reunion – May 13 - 17
2) LAPD/LAFD Car Show – June 1st
3) Hope for Firefighters – June 6th
4) Trustee Board Offsite – September 22nd
5) LAFD Invitational Golf Tourn. –
September 23rd
6) LAFRA Dinner Dance – December 7th
RETIREMENT DINNERS
1) Rosa Tufts – Thursday, April 4th B @ Frank
Hotchkins Memorial Training (Sonoda)
2) Bertram Jobz – Saturday, April 13th B @
Private Dinner at Residence (Aguirre)
3) Thomas Kennington – Saturday, April 27th
C @ Sagebrush Cantina (Steinbacher)
4) John E. Lefeber – Sunday, April 28th A @
Fire Station 112
5) Dane Jackson – Friday, May 3rd B @
Sagebrush Cantina (Berkery)
6) Kwame Cooper – Saturday, May 4th C @
California African American Museum
7) Darnell Wade – Saturday, May 11th A @
City Club Los Angeles (Sonoda)
ADJOURNMENT
Bob Steinbacher entertained a motion to
adjourn. Tyler Tomich so moved. Richard
Moody seconded. There was no discussion and
no objections.
Motion carried to adjourn. The Board of
Trustees meeting adjourned at 11:33 a.m.
Bob Steinbacher, President
June 2019 • 57
 CLASSIFIEDS
For advertising information, please contact:
Eric Santiago - (323) 259-5231 - eric@lafra.org
MERCHANDISE
FOR SALE
1990 FORESTER I/O BOW
RIDER. 18ft one owner ga-
raged since new, tandem axle,
detachable tongue, 4.3 liter V6
175 hp, $3,500 call Dave Allen
818-631-5295 in Carlsbad
2003 FLEETWOOD SOUTH-
WIND. 32 foot with double
slide. Low miles. Well main-
tained. $33K.
bsteinbacher@lafra.org
2013 WINNEBAGO VISTA
27N Class A motorhome,
Ford V-10 gas, Koni shocks,
heavy-duty anti-way bar, Tru-
Steer, sleeps 4, generator, air
conditioning/heat, full galley,
front and rear entertainment
system, immaculate, 18,000
miles, $49,000, Rich Griffin,
LAFD retired, 909 992 9163.
REAL ESTATE
FOR SALE
HAVASU DREAM HOME.
Lakeside of hwy, near launch
ramp. 3bd/2ba. 2351 sq.
ft. Solar heated pool - lake
views. Live where you play!
Georgeann Hoover AZ/CA
broker. (310) 890-1562. email:
georgeannsellshavasu.com
HOUSEBOAT ON LAKE
POWELL. “Timeshare”
2009 75’X16’/ 2 plus weeks
per year. It can easily sleep
20 plus. It has 2 full-sized
refrigerators, 2 freezers, 2
barbercues. Upper deck is half
covered & has electric winch.
A GREAT BOAT! Priced to sell
fast. $7000 firm. LAFD retired.
(818) 523-7499 or email:
glenshorey@att.net
58 • June 2019
READY TO LEAVE CALI-
FORNIA? Five acre lot in
quiet Gardnerville, Nv. Enjoy
country living only 3 1/2 miles
from town and only 20 minutes
to Lake Tahoe. Best part No
State Income Tax and No
$5.00 per gallon gasoline.
Level lot on paved road with
underground Electric, Gas,
Cable TV and Phone on
property. Access to BLM land
for off road riding, wheeling or
equestrian use. Excellent re-
tirement community close to all
amenities. $364,000 contact
Bill Waite (Retired LAFD) 775-
782-8016, Cell 760-937-1950
or wrwaite@frontier.com
SERVICES
ALL THINGS DISNEY! I
am full service travel agent
that specializes in DISNEY
Vacations! Your own private
concierge service to help you
plan your family’s well earned
trip to Walt Disney World,
Disney Cruises, Adventures By
DISNEY and even a staycation
at our own Disneyland Resort.
From Disney Resort Stays,
Transportation, Trip excursions,
Dinner Reservations, Fast-
Passes and even finding you
that coveted spot for fireworks.
I am your Travel AGENT! My
services are FREE!!!! At no
additional cost to you!!!! Let me
help you make new memories
with your family that you work
so hard for!!! Call MIKKI LEYVA
– LACOFD ‪909.238.5669
BUSY BEAVER TREE AND
LANDSCAPE. Tree trimming
and removal, stumpgrinding,
and firewood sales. Mixed
firewood, eucalyptus and oak.
Delivery available or pick up.
Licensed and insured. Dwayne
Kastor, FS 63-B - (818) 535-
6368.
CRAIG SANFORD HEAT-
ING & AIR - Free estimates,
residential, commercial. Great
rates for LAFD and LAPD.
Toll free (877) 891-1414,
(661) 298-3070, FAX (661)
298-3069. State License No.
527114
DEFERRED COMPENSA-
TION MANAGEMENT: Intro-
ducing My Deferred Compen-
sation Manager® AL HEWITT,
INC., a FEE-ONLY Financial
Planning and Investment Man-
agement Firm, offers Compre-
hensive Deferred Compensa-
tion Management using Elite
Institutional Money Managers.
Personalized portfolio selec-
tion and ongoing management
of your deferred compensation
assets. Investment Manage-
ment of other retirement and
non-retirement assets is also
available. We charge a fixed
flat advisory fee to manage
your deferred compensation
plan. We do NOT charge a
percentage of assets under
management. (800) 573-4829.
www.ALHEWITT.com
FIRE FAMILY ESTATE
SALES – Call us when a loved
one passes, moves to a nurs-
ing facility or downsizes. Our
professional staff can handle
every aspect of estate liquida-
tion. We have worked with
many fire families and are here
to help. Rebecca Martin, (818)
216-3637
www.firefamilyestatesales.
com
SOUTHBAY EXPOSURE
PHOTOGRAPHY
Professional photography
services for all wedding, fam-
ily, student, lifestyle, sports or
events. Serving Southern
Calif and destinations beyond.
Member of Pro Photographers
of Calif.Aerial photo and video
also available. FAA certified.
SouthbayExposure.com 
(800) 448-0788
Tony Senior LAFD retired
VACATION
RENTALS
BIG BEAR - Beautiful decked
2 story cabin. 2 bedroom, 1
bath. Sleeps six. Pets OK.
Near lake, slopes, shopping.
Fireplace/wood, cable/WiFi.
Fully furnished except linens.
Winter $120/$700. Summer
$110/$600. 2 night minimum.
Call Donna/Beep (760)723-
1475.
www.schaffercabin.com
HAVASU/BOATERS.
3bdrm(2king,1full) 2bath, turn-
key, w/d, WiFi, Dish, gas bbq,
1/2 mile to Windsor launch,
covered gated boat parking,
3 nites $450, $100 for each
additional nite- cleaning in-
cluded, pics available. Email:
rickpuglisi1103@msn.com
(626) 665-9890
INDIANAPOLIS INDIANA
HOME. Across the street from
Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
3Bed/2Bath in town of Speed-
way. Walk or bike to Main St.
Short drive, 7 miles, to Lucas
Oil Stadium,Downtown Indy,
Riverfront, Museums, Etc.
Available most dates except
May 20 to 27. Call Tina or
Craig at 805/377-0686 or
805/377-3640
JACKSON HOLE, WY:
Custom Log Cabin close to
Snake River, Skiing, Hunting,
Yellowstone, Teton National
Park and much more. Sleeps
7. Fully Furnished. Call (818)
207-0811 LAFD Retired.
JUNE LAKE CABIN -
2BR/2BA cabin with Carson
Peak view. Close to fishing &
skiing. Furnished, wood deck,
equipped kitchen, wood burn-
ing stove, tree swing, cable /
DVD/phone. Garage/ample
parking. $100/night plus clean-
ing fee. Email for pictures. Jeff
Easton LAFD retired (805)
217-5602.
junebound@gmail.com
LAKE HAVASU AMAZING
LAKEVIEW HOME. 1800 sq.ft.
new construction, 3 bed, 2
bath, sleeps 8. (King, Queen,
Full 2xTwin). Fully furnished w/
linens, cable TV, laundry, large
kitchen, BBQ, 2 car garage.
3 miles from launch ramp. No
pets / no smoking. Call Karen
(661) 965-0542.
LAKE HAVASU BEAUTY
FOR RENT - 3 bdrm, 2 bath,
1600 sq.ft. Fully furnished
with all amenities- Laundry &
BBQ. 13,000 sq.ft. lot. 3 car
boat-deep garage. 3 miles
from launch ramp. Close to
downtown shops & restau-
rants. View of the lake. Quiet
street in good neighborhood.
No pets. No smoking. Snow-
bird rates. Call Mike (661)
510-6246
LAKE HAVASU LANDING-
WATERFRONT, steps to the
water. Boat mooring out front,
off-road desert behind house.
3 bed/3 bath, fully furnished w/
linens. Direct TV/DVR, BBQ,
Casino, Grocery/Meat Market,
Launch Ramp, Marina with
Boat House, Gated Communi-
ty. No pets/smoking. $350 Dan
Cook (310) 418-1577.
LAKE HAVASU HOME FOR
RENT- 3 BED/2 BATH, Fur-
nished Modern Home, Sleeps
9. 2 Car Garage, Covered
Boat Parking . Laundry, BBQ,
TVs, Cable. Quiet Cul-De-
Sac Street. 3 miles to London
Bridge, located near Golf
Course. Lake View. No pets,
No Smoking.
Summer/Winter/Snowbird/
Holiday Rates. Cleaning Fee
included. Call John (323)449-
4473
LAKE HAVASU LANDING
RESORT. 3 bedroom, 2 bath,
waterfront house, boat, moor-
ing out front, fully furnished,
laundry, gas BBQ, launch
ramp, gated community, gro-
cery store, hardware store. No
pets, no smoking. Email Kathy
at scarkj@yahoo.com or call
(760) 858-4470
LARGE LAKE HAVASU
HOME FOR RENT – 5
bedroom, 3 bath, 2900 sqft
home with amenities & pool
that easily sleeps 14+ people.
Centrally located, 1 mile from
the lake, close to downtown
shops and restaurants. Check
out home at
https://www.vrbo.
com/4648549ha
Call Julie 818-268-7906 for
special firefighter family rates.
LAKE HAVASU LANDING
RESORT BEACHFRONT
HOME with boat mooring.
Swim, ski or fish from front
yard. 4 bed/2 bath, fully fur-
nished. DirectTV/DVD/WiFi,
pool table, laundry, BBQ.
Gated community with casino,
groceries, marina, launch ramp
and off-road trails. No pets, no
smoking. $350 Bowen/Garner
email:
havasulanding27@gmail.
com
MAMMOTH - 1 bedroom Sum-
mit condo, sleeps 6. Conve-
nient underground garage
parking. Jacuzzis, gym (pool/
tennis in summertime), shuttle
right outside! Across from
Eagle Lodge, Winter $110 per
night, Summer $80 per night
plus $65 cleaning fee and
13% tax. All linens included.
Drew or Nancy Oliphant (661)
513-2000 or mammoth241@
aol.com
MAMMOTH CONDO Cozy
2 bedrooms, 2 bath. Fully
furnished, WIFI, 3 TV’s, pool,
spa, walk to shuttle, Old
Mammoth area. Winter $115,
Summer $90, plus cleaning
fee $139 and 14% city tax.
Includes linens. No smoking.
Call (310) 540-4648 or (310)
418-1577.
MAMMOTH CONDO AT
MAMMOTH ESTATES,
4BR/3BA, sleeps 10, fully
furnished, 2 TVs, DVDs, WiFi,
towels/linens, fireplace. Full
kitchen. Walk to Gondola
Village and shuttle. Complex
has pool, spa, sauna, laundry.
Winter $335/night, Summer
$215/night, plus cleaning.
Includes city bed tax. No pets,
no smoking. Dory Jones (310)
918-0631 or Kelly Corcoran
(310) 619-5355
MAMMOTH CONDO. Up-
dated 2 bedroom 1 bath old
mammoth/ eagle lodge area.
Sleeps 6. Fully equipped
kitchen, wifi, pool, spa, laun-
dry. Walk to restaurants, bars,
stores, park and trolly. Winter
$150 summer $130 plus clean-
ing fee, holiday rates vary,
multiple night discounts. No
pets.Contact Will Nevins 26”B”
(714) 697-2587
MAMMOTH CONDO NEXT
TO THE GONDOLA VIL-
LAGE – Fully furnished, three
bedroom, two bath with towels
and linens, internet cable TV,
pool and Jacuzzi. Walk to
the gondola, shops, restau-
rants and ski in on the new
comeback trail. Parking at the
front door. 2018/19 RATES:
Winter: $275/night. Summer
$175/night. Holidays $325/
night. Cleaning is included.
Mike Whitehouse, Retired,
email: btkwhitey@yahoo.com
or Bruce Galien, Retired, 661-
645-7448, email: luvbaja2@
aol.com
MAMMOTH LAKES - One
bedroom, extremely charming
wildflower condo. Full ameni-
ties, close to shuttle. Antiques,
art, satellite TV, fireplace.
Sleeps 4. Winter $110, Sum-
mer $85 plus cleaning fees.
Call Bill Clark (818) 371-6722
Email: shakesong@aol.com
MAMMOTH SKI & RACQUET:
Studio/loft, 2 bath, king bed,
sleeps 4. Full kitchen, TV,
VCR, DVD. Garage parking.
Walk to Canyon Lodge. Ski
back trail. 2 night minimum.
Winter $100/nite, $125 Fri, Sat
& Holidays. Summer $60/nite.
Plus $120 cleaning & linens.
Jeff & Lisa Moir (661) 254-
5788.
MAMMOTH SKI & RACQUET:
Walk to Canyon Lodge. Studio
loft sleeps 4. Queen beds, full
kitchen, 2 baths, garage park-
ing, TV, VCR, DVD. Winter
Sun-Thurs $100.nite; Fri & Sat
$115/nite plus cleaning fee
$100. Non smoking complex.
Joel Parker, LAFD retired.
email: cat25sailor@gmail.
com or (213) 399-6534.
MAUI’S MOST BEAUTIFUL
BEACH - Napili Bay. Beautiful
furnished condo that sleeps
4. Lanai/balcony, full kitchen,
king bed, flat screen TV’s/
DVD, AC’s free WiFi (internet),
complimentary maid service,
complimentary coffee every
morning and breakfast on
Fridays. Special firefighters’
discount - Best value in West
Maui! Nice pool & BBQ area -
Close to beach!
(800) 336-2185
www.napilivillage.com
Don Sprenger - retired LAFD
(949) 929-0989
NASHVILLE CONDO. Two
bedroom condo, sleeps 6, in
Downtown Nashville. Walk-
ing distance to Broadway St,
hockey and NFL stadium.
Contact Wayne, LAFD @
(805) 796-7863 for availability
and price.
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE
Romantic Chalet Family
getaway. 3 bed/2 bath plus
loft. Sleeps 8–10. Cable TV,
washer/dryer, microwave,
woodburning stove. 7 minutes
to casinos and Heavenly.
Located in Tahoe Paradise.
$115 per night plus cleaning.
Call Shawn or Rose Agnew
at (661) 250-9907 or (661)
476-6288.
MOTORHOMES
FOR RENT
MOTORHOMES FOR RENT.
Several Class C’s & Class
A’s for rent. Serving family
and friends for over 15 years.
LAFD, LASD, IPD, OXPD, OX-
FIRE, LACO, LACITY, LACITY
SKI CLUB. Visit us at www.
so-calrv.com or call (661)
297-2398 ask for Jeff. Make
money with your motorhomes
to offset your payment. We
sub-lease RV’s!
For advertising
information,
please contact:
Eric Santiago
(323) 259-5231
or email: eric@lafra.org
June 2019 • 59
 Maximum coverage $700 per person
Scan from contracted provider Medical Imaging Center of
Southern California, includes (at no out-of-pocket expense):
MRI abdomen and pelvis scan for liver, kidneys,
adrenals, pancreas and spleen
Heart scan, including calcium score and CT
coronary angiogram
Low-dose Lung CT - lung cancer screening
You may select other providers whose rates may vary
and could include out-of-pocket costs
Limit one scan every 3 years

Visit micsc.com to learn more about this provider or call (310) 829-9788
subjectFiremensRelief.org
*All benefits Visit to change; for questions about
for more info
the Relief PPO Medical Plan, call (866) 995-2372

Deal direct with authorized Factory Dealers

Offering members of the Los Angeles Fire Department
Courteous, Ethical, and Special Consideration in the purchase of your new car.

GALPIN FORD HAMER TOYOTA, INC. HONDA OF HOLLYWOOD

“#1 Volume Ford Dealer in the world for 20
consecutive years!”
Lincoln / Mercury / Honda / Mazda /
Volvo / Ford / Jaguar / Lotus / Aston
Martin / Spyker / Galpin Auto Sports
For special pricing contact
Terry Miller—Fleet Sales & Leasing
15505 Roscoe Blvd
North Hills CA 91343
818-797-3800 l www.galpin.com
1.800.GO.GALPIN
Camry / Celica / Corolla / Tundra
Tacoma / Sienna / Supra / Solara
11041 Sepulveda Blvd
Mission Hills CA
Ask for Steve Denson—Fleet Mgr
steve@hamertoyota.com
818-365-9621
“Specializing in hassle-free car buying”
Honda - Sales and Leasing
Large Selection of Used Vehicles
6511 Santa Monica Blvd
Hollywood CA
Ask for Dave Erickson­­­­­­­­­
323-466-3251 l Fax: 323-462-0187
DaveE@hondaofhollywood.com

60 • June 2019
 Fire Station 71

Fire Station 71 - 107 South Beverly Glen Boulevard - Circa 1985

Engine Company No. 71 - 10801 Bellagio Road Captain Veryl Robinson, Firefighter Ray Peralta, Firefighter,
May 22, 1938 • “A” Platoon Kelly Faulkner, Engineer Dennis Hain

Fire Station 71 - 107 South Beverly Glen Boulevard - Circa 1990

Current Day Crew—Circa 2019. Photo by David Blaire

June 2019 • 61
 Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association
7470 N Figueroa Street
Los Angeles CA 90041-1725

RV LOANS

4.49%
as low as

Time to
go RV-ing
up to 84 months

Start planning your summer! With low rates, great term options
and our easy loan process, now is the time to check it out.

New and Used RV loans include motor homes, boats,

travel trailers, personal watercraft, ATVs and dirt bikes.

(800) 231-1626
Contact us for additional rates and terms. FirefightersFirstCU.org

Apply today. Shop tomorrow!

Los Angeles • Bakersfield • Loma Linda • Orange County
Pleasanton • Sacramento • Thousand Oaks • Tempe, AZ

*APR= Annual Percentage Rate. Promotional Rate includes 0.50% rate reduction for full direct deposit. Rate applies to new loans only. Canceling the full direct deposit at any time during the term of the
loan will adjust the loan rate to the current market rate. Representative Example: A $20,000 RV loan (Motor homes, Trailers, and Boats) financed at 4.49% APR for 84 months would result in 84 payments
of $277.91. To qualify for the full direct deposit discount funds must be deposited into your Firefighters First checking account. Some restrictions apply. Loan rates are based on term and applicant credit
history. All loans are subject to credit approval and are subject to Credit Union policies and procedures. Rates are subject to change without prior notice. Rate available from 4/19/19 to 7/15/19. For current
rate information, please call (800) 231-1626. The Credit Union does not lend in a Non Titling State on collateral loans in which a state does not issue or guarantee a title. Please contact us for out of state
purchase requests as some restrictions apply. Terms up to 180 months for motor homes, boats (up to 28’), and travel trailers. Terms up to 60 months for personal watercraft, ATVs and dirt bikes.