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(323) 259-5215
 VOL. XCV AUGUST 2019 NO. 12

• FEATURES •
Leadership and Mentoring
This is the third in a series of articles inspired by the courses taught
at the LAFD Leadership Academy. The series will examine the
building blocks of successful leadership • .....................................07

The 21st Annual Fallen Heroes Memorial Ride

The motto of “Ride to live and give to Live” continues to reign true • 08

Suicidal Thoughts
It’s finally time to talk about it! • ......................................................11

New Drop Requirements

Just the facts! • ...............................................................................13

• CONTENTS •
President’s Message • ............................................................................05
Battalion News • ....................................................................................15
The Retired Guys • …………..……..…..….…..…..….…..…..…..…..…….35
Department in Action • ...........................................................................36
The Lucas Device
Help is on the Way • ...............................................................................37
LA City Brown is Golden • ......................................................................38
LAFD 4 Wall Handball Championship • ..................................................38
Tom Jaramillo Retirement • ……………………………………………….39
Committing Malpractice on your Work Comp Claim • …………………….40
#1 Excercise for Firefighters • .................................................................42
Station Fridge • ......................................................................................44
Retirement Dinners • ……………………………………………………….45
Memorials • ...........................................................................................46
Housewives of the LAFD
Volunteerism - Not only a Duty but a Way of Life • .................................47
Mailbox • ...............................................................................................48
LAFD History
Union Oil Fire • .....................................................................................51
Minutes of the Board of Trustees • .....................................................55
Classifieds • ...........................................................................................58
Tailboard
Fire Station 94 • ....................................................................................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.

2 • August 2019
 On the cover: Structure Fire - By Steve Gentry

Photo Inset: Greater Alarm Fire - Fashion District - By Eric French

August 2019 • 3
 FIREMEN’S GRAPEVINE
In Appreciation of
owned and published by the
Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association
7470 N Figueroa Street, Los angeles CA 90041
Our Firefighters
EDITORIAL STAFF
Dave Wagner • Managing Editor..........................................editor@lafra.org
D.O.T. Medical Exam John Hicks • Associate Editor..............................................jhicks@lafra.org
Eric Santiago • Creative Editor...............................................eric@lafra.org
$35.00 Display Advertising.................................................(323) 259-5200 ext. 231

PSO’s
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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
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2476 S Atlantic Blvd PHOTOGRAPHERS

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Yvonne Griffin, Justin Johnson, Rick McClure, Mike Meadows, Jacob Salzman,
Commerce, CA 90040 Peter Sanders, Erik Scott, Jeff Zimmerman, Adam VanGerpen

Tel (323) 780-1650 LOS ANGELES FIREMEN’S RELIEF ASSOCIATION

Robert Steinbacher................................................President
Jeff Cawdrey .................................................Vice-President
Isaac Burks, Jim Dolan & Steve Ruda ................Community Affairs Liaisons

BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Chris Stine Gene Bednarchik Mike Sailhamer
Craig White Henry Gasbarri Rich Moody
Business hours: Danny Wu Jim Duffy Rick Godinez
8-5:30pm Monday-Friday David Peters Joe Vigil Steve Berkery
Doak Smith John Jacobsen Tim Freeman Jr.
8:30-2pm Saturday Frank Aguirre Juan Albarran Tim Larson
(Note: Arrive 30 minutes before closing) Gayle Sonoda Kenny Breskin 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 • August 2019
 The Dog Days of Summer are here and with it a period of
stagnation and/or inactivity due to the accompanying heat. What
a perfect time to get your BODY SCAN, ANNUAL PHYSICAL,
or LIVING TRUST completed before the lethargy sets in.
The Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association has had a
long-standing tradition of being there for our members when they
need us. Whether in times of grief, periods of transition, or just
lending a helping hand, our mission has always been to be of ser-
vice.
The Relief Association is a multi-faceted organization. Not
only do we provide industry leading medical benefits, we pro-
vide it in a cost-effective manner for active and retired members.
Another benefit of the Association is the Widows, Orphans &
Disabled Firefighters Fund. This charity was founded more than a
century ago to help the families of firefighters injured or killed in
the line of duty or facing other crises. We accomplish this help by
providing basic living expenses, health insurance, durable medi-
cal equipment, and memorial scholarships for the children of de-
ceased firefighters.
Not to rest on our past accomplishments, this year we have
added additional resources for our Kaiser and PPO Medical Plan
members. Our newly designed LAFRA Wellness Plan gives eli-
gible members access to free gym memberships, with the tools
and resources to help improve not only your fitness but your over-
all well-being at no additional cost to you. To explore all the tools
and resources available to help you improve your well-being and
manage all your health needs in one place, visit www.lafra.org/
wellness, or you can call (866) 936-4243 with any questions.
Our Family Support Group is another new resource we
have put into place this year to help our members in need. Work-
ing in cooperation with the LAFD Chaplains, LAFRA has formed
a new alliance for surviving spouses and other family members.
Led by Valerie Lawrence and Diane Vigil, this valuable resource
is here to assist surviving members with their needs by building
lasting relationships. A good example of this recently occurred
when Mother Nature gave Southern California another wake-up
call in the form of multiple earthquakes in the Ridgecrest area.
Even though this was more than 100 miles from the City’s bor-
ders, our fire family was still impacted. Several members call this
region their home and suffered losses. One such member is Janice
Wagner. She and her husband Don purchased their Ridgecrest
home in 2006, and because Don is no longer with us, the Relief
Association wanted to make sure Janice felt safe. Coincidentally,
Captains Rich Deide and Tom Henzgen from Fire Station 88 were
deployed to assist the Ridgecrest community after the 7.1 earth-
quake on July 5th. Hearing of this, Valerie Lawrence quickly co-
ordinated with the USAR Task Force, and to Janice’s surprise,
the firefighters stopped by her residence. The fire captains gladly
assisted with a few fallen items, inspected the house for safety,
and even taught Janice how to turn off the gas if needed. Not only
was she appreciative of their efforts, but Janice was also left with
a greater appreciation of both organizations.
When I hear a story like this, it makes me proud to repre-
sent such a dedicated group of individuals that are willing to go
the extra mile for those in need. It reminds me that we are more
than just a group of people doing a job, we are an organization
working for the benefit of our fire family.
SAVE THE DATES
• IAFF Fallen Firefighter Memorial – Sept 21
• LAFD Invitational Golf Tournament – Sept 23
• California Fallen Firefighter Memorial – Sept 28
• Over the Line Tournament – Oct 2
• LAFD Fallen Firefighters Memorial – Oct 12
• LAFRA Open House Party – Nov 2
• LAFRA Holiday Party – Dec 7
Be safe and kind to each other!
Robert D. “Steintalker” Steinbacher
president@lafra.org
323.259.5200
August 2019 • 5
 n
Los A
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6 • August 2019 Contact your plan provider to verify.
 ire De
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Los A
Leadership
Academy
ent A
nother in our series of articles inspired by
the courses taught at the LAFD Leadership
Academy, examining the building blocks of
successful leadership. This is an adaptation of A/C
CH
OR
Roy Harvey’s course presentation.
EC
K potential that they may not recognize within them-
D
YO E I am approaching the last six months of my
U H
R E G O AT T LAFD career spanning 41 years. I have been a su-
pervisor for more than 31 years, and in that time I
have mentored at least 60 members who have pro-
moted to captain or above. Mentoring should occur
at every level and rank throughout the organization,
“Accomplished
and anyone who accepts the responsibility of mentor
is a leader. In my opinion, the most important benefit
of the mentor/mentee relationship is the lasting re-
employees at
lationship and personal accountability between the
parties.
How do we know what right looks like?
Leaders and mentors provide real life examples
every level of and instill the principles and core values that sup-
port the success of the organization. “Everyone de-
serves a leader who they can admire,” is a quote that
an organization resounded with me immediately when a respected
chief officer said it in 1987 as I was preparing to
interview for captain. The purpose of this article is
should seek to emphasize the value of developing relationships
with mentors and also on becoming a mentor. The
performance developed through these relationships
opportunities to
leads to maintaining a high standard within our
ranks.
I have had the honor and privilege of work-
share their
ing with, and for, some of the most highly respected
and successful officers in LAFD history, which has
served as the foundation for my philosophy on lead-
ership and mentoring. Leadership is both an art and
knowledge with a science. There are thousands of books, classes, and
seminars devoted to the science of leadership prin-
ciples. Applying those principles effectively is the
people who can art! Working with, or for, a successful leader/mentor
is the most effective and efficient way to learn the
art.
benefit from Although it is easy to mimic actions, the
core values and accountability of the mentor/men-
tee relationship is developed over time. It often takes
their experience”
time to see the results of these actions. A mentor can
help ensure that the mentee learns from mistakes by
sharing past experiences and directing future behav-
ior. For example, correcting behavior of a problem
employee or changing the culture of a work envi-
ronment is a process. A leader may take unpopu-
lar positions in these situations, and only through
• WHERE: The Frank Hotchkin Memorial perseverance and consistency will they sustain the
desired results. The mentor/mentee relationship pro-
Training Center vides an opportunity for discussion to develop an
• COST: At the present time there is no cost understanding of the process and add a tool to the
to attend the LAFD Leadership Academy mentee’s toolbox.
Why are some leaders legends? Leaders/
• QUESTIONS: Jason Powell, Captain I, In-
mentors that become legends, or have a record of
Service Training Section at (213) 893-9838 exceptional success, actually do more! Great leaders
or lafdla@lacity.org are invested in the success of everyone who they im-
pact. The mentoring relationship is personal, which
requires an individualized approach when interact-
ing with each mentee. A leader will challenge men-
tees to go beyond their comfort zone. It is important
to be a “talent scout” and guide members to achieve
selves.
Mentoring benefits the leader as much as the
mentee. Anytime you teach someone, it reinforces
and deepens your understanding of the subject or
skill. The mentor/mentee exchange creates a bond,
therefore accountability between the parties. Often
a talented mentee will promote beyond the rank of
a mentor. I have found that the level of respect and
appreciation for the mentor/mentee relationship be-
comes stronger in most cases, due to the loyalty es-
tablished as the foundation of the relationship.
It is important for the success of an orga-
nization to support and develop talent. How many
times have you met a “brilliant” probationary fire-
fighter and thought, “one day we will be working
for him/her?” It is everyone’s responsibility to make
sure that it happens! Mentoring, developing, teach-
ing is good for all parties involved, and it most often
results in a mutually beneficial relationship.
A mentor/mentee relationship can also exist
without a working relationship. That relationship has
more of an advisory (teaching/counseling) dynamic.
The main reason for this difference is the mentee
does not have the benefit of observing or experienc-
ing daily subtle actions that the leader takes while
handling different situations. These relationships
have value even though more effort is required to
gain a full understanding of the leader/mentor’s
thought process in varied situations.
Leadership and mentoring principles are
not limited to supervisory positions. Accomplished
employees at every level of an organization should
seek opportunities to share their knowledge with
people who can benefit from their experience.
I completed the LAFD Leadership Acad-
emy in 2009 after 21 years as a captain - you CAN
teach an old dog new tricks! I was introduced to
many leadership theories, some new and others that I
had been using for years. The common thread of the
things that worked most effectively were practices
that I learned from officers who I enjoyed working
for. Effective leaders enjoy sharing their knowledge,
and are normally good communicators. Studying
leadership, and later instructing at the LAFD Lead-
ership Academy, has further reinforced the impor-
tance of establishing relationships with mentors.
The saying, “Each one, teach one,” are
words to live by. Are you a mentor or mentee? You
should be both!
Simon Sinek is an author, speaker, and
virtual mentor with more than a half-million You-
Tube subscribers. If you’d like to get a jumpstart on
improving your leadership abilities, check out his
videos at #learntolead
August 2019 • 7
U
nder the shadow of new construction Special thanks to Chief Carlos Calvillo 69’s displayed the colors as we passed under-
rising across from Fire Station 27, the and his crew for suppling the PA system and neath their aerial and Old Glory. Well done,
motto of the LAFD Fire Hogs M/C, for reaching out to the media, Chief Tim Kelly Captains for showing great leadership!!! Coor-
“Ride to Live and Live to Give,” continues to and Captain Getchius with their crew at Fire dinating the ride was Fire Hog member Raul
reign true. Founded in 1991, the Fire Hogs’ Station 27, and Jim Finn with his volunteers at Miranda. Not an easy task, but I have a feel-
goal has always been to promote a brotherhood the Fire Museum for sharing their property and ing his wife Terry did double duty as she also
amongst their fellow firefighters. One way they hosting the event. I couldn’t think of a better documented the event with her photographing
do this is obvious—they ride! Not only do they place to start such an important ride. skills—fantastic team work! UFLAC’s Adam
ride, but they keep true to their beliefs by rid- What a sight it was being a part of the Van Gerpen also helped out taking some great
ing for causes such as the Widows, Orphans & 200 bikes that were escorted down Sunset Bou- shots of his own—Thank you.
Disabled Firefighter’s Fund. The 21st Annual levard towards Gladstone Restaurant. As we To keep this a family event, Raul’s
Fallen Heroes Memorial Ride was one such traveled down Sunset, each station along the cousins Monica and George Hernandez, Moni-
ride and so much more. route was out at attention saluting as the pro- ca’s sister Dee and Steve Ybarra donated three
Registration for the event started early. cession passed. Captain Russell and the Crew expensive baskets. Part of the LAFD family,
Thank God for The Hermosa Coffee Company from 37’s presented arms as we passed the retired member Scott Gill arranged the hotel
and the ICAN workers for providing coffee overpass and Captain Kitahata and his crew at and coordinated the station’s displays as the
and refreshments to nourish the riders for the
long day ahead. As the nearly 200 bikes and
350 riders rolled in, t-shirts and other mer-
chandise moved out thanks to the hard work of
people like Armando and Chris Diaz. As the
Ceremony began, it was led by the LAFD Hon-
or Guard and the Gold Coast Pipes and Drums
who brought in the colors, followed by the flag
salute and the national anthem by John Lee. A
moment of silence was observed for all those
lost from the military, fire, police, and other
first responders followed by the invocation
from Chaplin Rick Godinez. LAFD did their
part as Fire Hog El Jefe, Ralph Terrazas, made
an appearance and spoke on important matters
such as mental health care for our members
and new equipment hitting the field, compli-
ments of the LAFD Fire Foundation.
Dignitaries speaking included Grand
Marshall, Actor Vincent Vargas (son of our
own Carlos “The Cutman” Vargas), LAFRA
Relief President Robert Steinbacher, retired
Councilmember Dennis Zine, UFLAC Sec-
ond VP Adam VanGerpen, Chapter Presidents
Al Bustillios, and Ron Pelham. Next was the
introduction of the LAFD Chapter’s Board
and the recognition of the survivors that were
present at the event. A brief explanation to the
crowd of the meaning of the sounding of the
bells in a firefighter’s life was followed by the
honor guard escorting Suzanne Farrell to ring
the ten bells in honor of her longtime partner
and Fallen Fire Hog, Pete Goff. John Keyes
provided the ghost solo of Amazing Grace
with the Gold Coast Pipes and Drums filling in
at the end.

8 • August 2019

riders made their way along the course. Anoth-
er important job went to Craig Yamashiro who
kept track of the finances and helped out with
registration. Taylor and Debbie Gaskins coor-
dinated the survivors and their gifts and was
also one of the many mules running around
doing needed tasks. Thank God for Rudy San-
tiago, Angel Meza, and Robert Reyes. They
assured that the parking lot’s traffic flowed
smoothly and even cleaned up after the riders
left.
Jay and Cheryl Freeman coordinated
the raffle, along with Kurt and Craig William-
son who also worked on the sponsor plaques.
Once again, Jim Vels came through big time,
donating several works of art in the form of a
hand-painted fire helmet, a Maltese cross, and
a bowling pin that raised a lot of money for the
cause—stunningly beautiful! Another high-
light of the day was the auctioning of a motor-
cycle owned by LAFD Captain and Fire Hog
original Pete Goff, Jr., who passed away in Au-
gust of 2018. John and Michele O’Connor co-
ordinated the auction of the priceless gift that
was donated by Pete’s son and daughter. Steve
and Brenda Resnick were all over the place,
helping out anywhere they could, while Val
Lawrence, Sandra Marquez, and Diane Vigil
collected donations and assisted in the regis-
tration process.
Congratulations to the big prize win-
ners: LACOFD Fire Hog Crazy Lou and his
wife who took home Pete Goff’s bike, Mark
Morman who took home Jim Vels’ custom
painted helmet and Maltese cross. Jim Vels’
friend won the bid on Jim’s custom painted
bowling pin and then donated it back to the
auction. Retired LAFD member and Fire Hog
member Scott Gill eventually won the bowl-
ing pin. Actor Vincent Vargas reached out to
the cast of his TV series and within a short
time, most of the cast of the Mayans were at
the Sagebrush taking pictures with all and
helping us raffle off prizes. A few of them even
won some prizes! With over 100 prizes, I don’t
think many left without something, including a
good time!
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention
the LA County Fire Hogs and San Gabriel Val-
ley Fire Hogs. Both chapters assisted tremen-
dously to the success of this event by giving
support, reaching out to riders by social media,
soliciting sponsors, and lastly by putting out $$
in winning prizes.
I want to recognize the following clubs
in attendance: Iron Spartans, Top Rocker Hog
Chapter, Old FUX M/C, US Veterans, and the
Glendale HOG Chapter. My thanks to each
and every one of you that supported this event
by attending it, donating to it, or purchasing
tickets even though you couldn’t attend. Also,
a shout out to Jim Parks and Bob Clarke for
making it to the event. How about LACOFD
Fire Hog Chapter President, Big Al, for com-
ing all the way from Prague, Czech Republic,
so he wouldn’t miss the event…AWESOME
BROTHER.
I want to especially thank the follow-
ing major sponsors for their tremendous sup-
port of our event: Al Hewitt Financial, Tom
Lindstrom RV, Red Helmet Training, UFLAC,
Russ Brown Motorcycle Attorneys, Straussner
& Sherman IOD Attorneys, Firefighters First
Credit Union, The Law Firm of Lewis, Maren-
stein, Wicke, Sherwin, & Lee, Lupitas Bakery,
Sagebrush Cantina, Anza Hotel, Pelican Prod-
ucts, Tuzz, as well as numerous other sponsors.
I would also like to thank my wife for doing
so much and supporting me always, and the
countless members, friends, and family mem-
bers who stepped up and helped out the day
of the event. With your help, we have already
made 2019 a year to remember.
Members wishing more information on
becoming a Fire Hog and information on up-
coming events go to our website at www.Fire-
hogs.org. Join us on Facebook @ Fire Hogs
M/C LAFD. Follow us on Twitter Fire Hogs
M/C.
Please go to theses websites to view
other pictures from the event.
https://terrymiranda.smugmug.com/View-
you r - p ho t os /Solva ng-2 013/Mem o r i a l -
Ride-2019/
https://www.flickr.com/photos/48795888@
N08/albums/72157709026578077
August 2019 • 9
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10 • August 2019
D
o you think you are immune to the
stress of everyday life? Do you think
you would never hurt yourself? Or
have you thought of it but kept it hidden from
everyone? You are not alone. Everyone has a
breaking point—even firefighters.
Unfortunately, the rate of suicides for
first responders is on the rise, with even our
own department experiencing the sting of per-
sonal tragedy. These cases are not isolated nor
are the victims strangers in our lives. They are
people that we have worked side-by-side with
for years. It is no secret that first responders
experience daily stress as they deal with some
of the worst cases of trauma in the nation. Over
time these stressors can, and do, impact our
health, both mentally and physically. Like a
cancer, they can slowly and silently rob people
of their health.
“We must do everything possible to remove barri-
ers that discourage firefighters from reaching out
for the behavioral health assistance.”
- Dr. Steve Froehlich PH.D.
Many times pride keeps us from ad-
mitting that we need help. Often the sense of
responsibility can be overwhelming when first
responders struggle alone with their issues.
They don’t want to appear helpless or weak, so
it is not uncommon for some to isolate them-
selves or try to escape from the pressures of the
job by indulging in unhealthy activities such as
drug and alcohol addiction, prescription drug
abuse, gambling, soliciting sex, and other self-
destructive behaviors.
HOW TO PREVENT SUICIDE IN
FIRST RESPONDERS
The topic of suicide is usually not
brought up around the kitchen table. Our virile
nature discourages such display of weakness,
leading most to suffer in silence. It’s not until
it hits close to home that we even acknowledge
the subject exists in our world.
Dr. Steve Froehlich, UFLAC’s Direc-
tor of Behavioral Health Services is well aware
of the fire service and its resistance to talk
about the subject of mental health and is work-
ing hard to change this. He writes, “The time
is now for an all-out push to break down the
barriers preventing “best in class” behavioral
health services for firefighters and their fami-
lies across this amazing country. Annual fire-
fighter suicides have now overtaken the yearly
number of line of duty deaths in the US. We
must do everything possible to remove barri-
ers that discourage firefighters from reaching
out for the behavioral health assistance that
they may need. We believe that Peer Support
Programs are the most effective approach
within the firefighter culture. LAFD has highly
trained mental health professionals and state
of the art services to offer members. With that
said, within the culture it takes a Peer Support
Team member to bridge the individual in need,
to the professional service provider who can
help. To be transparent, I would never go, nor
would I send a family member to any medi-
cal professional unless that provider was rec-
ommended by a trusted source. This is what
the Peer Support Team member brings to the
table. LAFD right now has 95 well-trained and
highly motivated Peer Support Team members
ready to assist. We are all here to help.”
OUR MENTAL HEALTH
According to the United States Fire
Association, 10 percent of firefighters suffer
with some form of mental illness and sub-
stance abuse. The most common forms listed
were PTSD, anxiety, depression, and substance
abuse. Left unchecked, these conditions can
easily lead one down the road to self-destruc-
tion. Signs of mental illness include feelings
of apathy and wanting to withdrawal. Some
will retreat within themselves and avoid hang-
ing out with friends, while others will display
unexplained emotional outbursts. Memory is-
sues are common and so is the ability to focus
on one particular subject. Personal hygiene
can also suffer due to the lack of feelings of
self-worth. According to Health.com, up to
80 percent of people with mental illness have
problems with sleep. Now, lack of sleep is a
staple in a first responder’s life and, by itself,
not necessarily a sign that something is wrong.
However, continued periods of sleeplessness
can lead to poor decision making that can lead
to any number of other health issues.
If you are experiencing thoughts of sui-
cide or feelings of anxiety or depression, it’s
time to ask for help. The days of suffering in
silence must, and can, come to an end before
we lose another one of our brothers or sisters
to this real, but treatable, condition. Just don’t
think about it—Talk about it!
PEER SUPPORT ROSTER
(all contacts are confidential}
• Chaplains - Rick Godinez (213) 797-2404
or MFC floor Captain (213) 576-8920
• Dr. Krystle Madrid, Psychologist LAFD Behavioral
Health (213) 718-0768
• Audrey Martinez, Ph.D, Psychologist LAFD
Behavioral Health (213) 435-3996
• Dr. Steven. Froehlich, Ph.D, Psychologist
UFLAC Local 112 (818) 645-9027
• Nancy Mraz, CEAP, UFLAC Local 112
(213) 598-8794
• Valerie Lawrence. LAFRA Family Support Group
(323) 259-0996
August 2019 • 11
 Paid Advertisement

12 • August 2019

H
ere are the new requirements that are
in effect for members who enter the
DROP Program on or after February
1, 2019:
• Any member who enters DROP on or af-
ter February 1, 2019, shall have his or her par-
ticipation in DROP suspended for any calendar
month in which he or she does not spend at
least 112 hours on active duty status
• For any participant who sustains a serious
injury on duty and is admitted to the hospital
for a minimum of three consecutive days as a
direct result of that injury, participation shall
not be suspended during the first 12 calendar
months following the date of injury
• Any member whose participation is
suspended shall be eligible to participate in
DROP for a maximum of 30 additional months
beyond the original participation period. The
participation period shall only be extended for
as many months as the member’s participation
was suspended.
• No interest accrues on the DROP account
following the initial 5-year/60-month partici-
pation period, including any periods of partici-
pation suspension.
Q. What if I am already in DROP, do these
changes affect me?
A. No. The changes only affect members who
enter DROP on or after February 1, 2019.
Q. Is the 112-hour active duty requirement
counted in calendar or work hours?
A. Calendar hours.
Q. What time counts as a working hour?
A. You can use hours worked (HW), vacation
(VC), preventative medicine (PM) and time off
(TO) as part of the 112 hours. The City and la-
bor unions have agreed on the list of timekeep-
ing codes that will count toward the 112-hour
active duty requirement.
Q. What time does not count as a working
hour?
A. Sick time (SK), family illness (FI) and Inju-
ry on Duty/Workers’ Comp time will not count
towards your 112 working hours. There is an
exception, however, if you are hospitalized for
three or more days as a direct result of an on-
duty injury.
Q. Does overtime count toward my working
hours?
A. You cannot use overtime toward your work-
ing hours, but if you bank your hours and take
them as TO, those hours will count.
Q. If I don’t work the 112 hours will I be
immediately terminated from the DROP
Program?
A. No. A participant can work up to the full five
years while in DROP. Within the five years,
any month with less than 112 active duty hours
is not eligible for DROP pension accrual (i.e.,
your participation is suspended for that month
and nothing is “deposited” to your DROP ac-
count that month). The months ineligible for
pension accrual can be made up at the end of
the 5-year standard DROP period, for up to a
maximum of 30 additional months beyond the
original 5-year participation period.
Q. Where does my money go if I fail to meet
the 112-hour active duty requirement?
A. While it is common to refer to DROP credit
being earned in the form of a payment or check,
it is not in fact a payment or a check. While in
DROP, you get credit in your individual DROP
account once you have earned
the credit; but the actual money
stays in the LAFPP trust fund.
If you fail to meet the 112-hour
requirement during a calendar
month, your DROP account will
not receive a pension credit for
that month. However, the funds
remain in the LAFPP trust fund.
Q. Will the months I make up
be subject to the 5% interest?
A. No. The 5% interest is only
for the first five years in DROP.
Any extension beyond the five-
year DROP period would not
earn the 5% interest. Extensions
beyond the five-year DROP pe-
riod would only receive cost of
living adjustments to your pen-
sion.
Q. Will my DROP account
from the initial 5-year period
continue to accrue interest
while I’m making up any months?
A. No. Your DROP balance from the initial
5-year period will be frozen and not collect in-
terest during your extended make-up time.
Q. What if I enter DROP in the middle of
the month or exit DROP in the middle of the
month?
A. You must be on “active duty status” for a
minimum of 112 hours in a calendar month
to be credited with a DROP deposit for that
month, regardless if it is at the beginning or
end of your DROP period.
Q. Will the timing of DROP payouts be im-
pacted by these new provisions?
A. Yes, under the new provisions LAFPP
must confirm with the City’s payroll system
(PAYSR) that you met the 112-hour active duty
threshold in your final pay period. Depending
upon your DROP exit date, this may delay the
payout of your DROP lump sum for a mini-
mum of one month.
Q. Will I earn interest on my DROP balance
while the final pay period is being verified?
A. No. The terms for crediting interest remain
unchanged. No interest accrues after a mem-
ber’s DROP exit effective date.
Q. If I do not agree with the changes to the
DROP Program, can I appeal?
A. No. The DROP Program is an optional, vol-
untary program that provides LAFPP sworn
members with an additional way to save for
their retirement years. No member is required
to participate.
For more information on the DROP Program,
please visit the LAFPP “DROP Information”
page.
August 2019 • 13
 Gold Sponsor

Silver Sponsor

Task Force Sponsors

Engine Company Sponsor

14 • August 2019
 gh ters
2019 Hope for Firefi

2019 Kemper Softball Classic

It has been quite a year for the crews at Fire Station 2. First, they pounded the
competition and won the Lane Kemper Classic Softball Tournament. Then in June, they
got together again in DTLA at Hope for Firefighters and out-classed their rivals, whip-
ping up their famous spicy Elote Bowls and walking away with the “Best Entrée” prize.
And rumor has it that they aren’t quite finished yet, setting their sights on bringing the
“Best LAFD Handball House” trophy over to the Eastside before the end of the year.
Editor’s Note: Our humble apologies to the boys and girls at FS 2. In the July
issue, we reported – incorrectly – that another firehouse had won the best entrée award
at Hope for Firefighters. Congratulations to Fire Station 2!

August 2019 • 15
 WED, OCTOBER 2nd, 2019 (A SHIFT)
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At (805) 717-0618
or FS 11 - C Platoon
16 • August 2019
 E-1 handles a dumpster fire
with a little extra topping.
Photo by Capt Lievense

X.
Wilshire the Fire Dog meets and greets
at a pancake breakfast held at FS 63.

n
w

& Mark (FS 47) and Courtney Wagoner are happy to report that

Y! the LAFD Family has grown by two. Courtney tells us that, “On April
25th, our twins were born at 33 weeks and four days, in Phoenix.
Mark was able to spend the majority of their three-week NICU stay

ETT with us as the girls learned to regulate their temperature and drink by
bottle. The girls are strong fighters and graduated the NICU after just
three weeks, and we made the trek back to LA. Introducing Ivy Violet
618 and Ava Valentine, our beautiful adopted daughters! We’re so excited
for all that’s to come!”
toon
August 2019 • 17
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18 • August 2019
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PO Box 41903 - Los Angeles, CA 90041

(323) 259-5217 mcasillas@lafra.org

 T 35 made it down to Batt 13
for a Major Emergency

The catch from the City/County Fish Off

August 2019 • 19
g
 Adrian Vazquez and the crew from FS 35 with Deputy
Chief Hogan on Vazquez’s promotion to Capt II

Capts Ruiz, Ramirez, and Smith, with FF 35’s FF Austin Hajjar handles a
Dubios at the Mendocino Complex Fire baby rattler according to TB 41

20 • August 2019
Fire 2 during a hoist operation of a
downed hiker. Photo by Leo Kaufman

Foam 114 puts on a beautiful display

at sunset! Photo by Gary Gatena

August 2019 • 21
 The boys at Air Ops practice flight operations
for dishes. Photo by John Hicks

03/30/19. FF/PM Elan Raber 83C, DC Trevor Richmond

& AC Surgey Tomlinson at the Public Service Awards.

22 • August 2019
 06/16/19, LAFD responded to a physical rescue
at 8711 Haskell Ave. Photo by Greg Doyle

6/9/19. Firefighters achieve a quick knockdown

in the 2800 blk of N. Laurel Cyn Bl. Photo by LAFD

E-83 handles a traffic collision

resulting in an auto fire.

August 2019 • 23
 On 6/12/19, Batt 12 companies responded to a brush fire Battalion 12 companies respond to a solo vehicle that struck
in the 11300 blk of Hunnewell Ave. Photo by Alex Gillman a power pole, causing a small brush fire. Photo by Joe Lyneis

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24 • August 2019
 E-275 attacks a fully involved auto on
the EB 118. Photo by Chris Eckenrode

06/26/19. 75’s forces entry to battle a well-in-

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August 2019 • 25
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26 • August 2019
 City and County handled a structure fire
in 66’s district. Photo by Justin Johnson

On 5/25/19, companies battle a fire in a On 6/09/19, a firefighter showed restraint securing a

auto repair shop. Photo by Mike Meadows water supply in Toluca Lake. Photo by Brandon Buckley

August 2019 • 27
 On 6/10/19, a structure fire at 5241 N
Lankershim Blvd. Photo by Mike Meadows

On 06/08/2019, TF 89 extinguished an auto fire on

the 170 FY x Sherman Way. Photo by Zak Holman

28 • August 2019
 6/10/19. FF’s in Chatsworth make quick work of a
single-family dwelling fire. Photo by Jacob Salzman

Battalion 15 companies handle an MCI

in 107 first-in. Photo by Rick McClure Crews investigate a downed plane in Porter Ranch

August 2019 • 29
 6-24-19. Companies from Batt 15 & Air Ops respond to
a hiker at Tampa x Rinaldi. Photo by Jacob Salzman

Batt 15 companies responded to a reported traffic collision with

entrapment at Lassen St x Canoga Ave. Photo by Jacob Salzman

30 • August 2019
 Structure fire in the 20900 block of Victory
Boulevard on 6/14/19. Photo by Leo Kaufman

Engine 93 (moved up to 98’s) caught a catering truck that

was fully involved on the N/B 5 Fwy. Photo by Mike Meadows

August 2019 • 31
 The Fire Commission recognized three members from
FS 9 for their heroic efforts. Photo by EIT Venegas

Crew 3 conducting live fire training

with LACoFd. Crew 3 photo

32 • August 2019
 UFLAC honors fire photographers with a
fantastic luncheon. Photo by UFLAC

Trustee Gayle Sonoda enjoyed a day at Legoland to battle Dimitrius Lynch gets the Founders Award from the Mablean
against Carlsbad firefighters on the Riptide Racers. LAFD Photo Ephriam Foundation. Photo complements of lacitystentorians

August 2019 • 33
 For more Information visit IAFF website www.iaff.org/events/ or LAFRA www.lafra.org click calendar
Any questions please email FamilySupportCoordinators@lafra.org or call Valerie and Diane 1-323-259-5277.
34 • August 2019
F
rom 1980 to 1982, I was assigned to RA Memo), because these terms are no longer Enjoy reading both documents.
19-A. My partner was Ken Smith, a great used: Remember: #1 - I never let facts get in
guy and an excellent paramedic. The • Division 3 covered all of the Valley. the way of a good story and #2 - You never
Engine 19 crew was: Captain Robert “Butch” Today it is the Valley Bureau. mess with a newspaper guy.
Rose, Engineer Bob Schlosser, FF John Elgin • The Chief Engineer is now the Fire Chief. If you have any additions or correc-
and of course, another guy, but I don’t remem- • Bureau of Fire Suppression and Rescue tions you can reach me at Daoldwestsidekid@
ber who. (BFS&R) is now Emergency Ops. yahoo.com
Last month I told you about the im-
portance of history and geography. This story
from the Westside is one of the little-known
episodes that would have slipped into history
without the documents you see here.
In 1980, Ronald Reagan ran for, and
was elected to, the office of President of the
United States. President-elect Reagan lived, Letter
at the time, in FS-69’s district. Because FS-69
did not have a paramedic ambulance at that
time, Engine and Rescue 19 were invited, by
the Secret Service, to tour Reagan’s home in
case there was ever a response there for him or
his family.
We parked on the street in front of the
house and walked up the driveway, accom-
panied by a Secret Service agent, in order to
pre-plan how we would get in and out of the
property. The engineer remained with the rigs
on the street. As we were taking the tour, the
Secret Service agent was telling us how much
security they had provided to the Reagans. He
explained that no one could possibly approach
the house without being captured or shot.
As the agent was taking us through the
house, we looked out the back windows and
who do we see walking, nonchalantly, down
the hill through the bushes and into the yard
right through all of the “security?” That’s
right, the engineer, Bob Schlosser.
It looked like all of the agents had OD’d
on Exlax when they saw him . . . if you get my
drift. He explained that he just walked through
somebody’s backyard and came right down the
hill, unchallenged by anyone. So much for se-
curity.
Another story is the request that the Memo
Secret Service sent, through channels to FS
19 (See Letter). Fortunately, it never happened.
This is a piece of LAFD history that has been
long forgotten. It could have had an explosive
effect on FS19.
A little interpretation might be nec-
essary, starting at the top of the memo (See

August 2019 • 35
STRUCTURE FIRE
North Hollywood
Photos by Mike Meadows

At 5:33AM on June 10, 2019, the Los Angeles Fire

Department responded to a reported structure fire at 5241
N Lankershim Blvd. Firefighters battled an approximately
150’ x 75’ commercial structure that had heavy fire and
smoke showing upon arrival of the first companies. After
an aggressive interior attack, firefighters were later forced
to transition to a defensive stance.

36 • August 2019
A
49 -year-old male with no medical history calls 911 with chest ation of the vital organs (i.e. the heart and brain). Once the patient is on
pain and shortness of breath after working out at the gym. His 12- ECMO, the LUCAS will be removed and the cardiologists can open up
lead EKG demonstrates STEMI and while preparing to transport the blocked coronary artery by placing a stent and hopefully reverse the
him he goes into cardiac arrest. His initial rhythm is ventricular fibrilla- cause of the cardiac arrest.
tion. He receives high-quality CPR, multiple shocks, Epinephrine, Ami- The LUCAS device will be carried by selected EMS Battalion
odarone, and despite maximal interventions on scene, ROSC is never Captains, who will arrive on scene to assist with placement of the device
obtained. He is transported to the closest SRC and pronounced. I think and facilitate transport to the select SRCs that have the capability care
we would all agree that this patient was too young to die. for these complex patients. Through this pathway, we hope to not only
save lives but match the success of other systems in which 50% of these
patients walked out of the hospital neuro-
“High-quality CPR pro- logically intact and were able to return
to their families and jobs.
These patients are
vides the best chance “too young to die”, but through
your efforts, high-quality CPR,
for survival and a good and utilizing the LUCAS in
this new clinical pathway, we
neurologic outcome” have the potential to save lives!
Be on the lookout
for the departmental bulle-
tin for more information on
Unfortunately, up until recently, after exhausting our
the LUCAS and training
existing resources we had nothing else to offer this patient.
opportunities.
However, soon LAFD will have new technology that
could have potentially saved this man’s life and the other
300 cases of refractory shockable rhythms we treat each
year.
Most shockable cardiac arrests are caused by a
blocked coronary artery. The only way to definitively
treat the cardiac arrest is by opening the artery up via
stent placement in a cardiac cath lab. But how do we
safely transport these patients from the scene of their
cardiac arrest to the cath lab while maintaining high-
quality CPR? This is where our new technology, the
LUCAS (Lund University Cardiopulmo-
nary Assist System) device, will help
us save lives.
The LUCAS device is a me-
chanical CPR device that can provide
uninterrupted chest compressions to the
patient, allowing for consistent CPR dur-
ing transportation of the patient. By providing
high-quality CPR throughout transport and dur-
ing treatment in the cath lab, cerebral and cardiac
perfusion is maintained, allowing the best chance for
not only survival but also a good neurologic outcome.
Soon, the LUCAS device will be available in
select battalions to allow rapid transport of patients in
cardiac arrest with refractory shockable rhythms to hos-
pitals that can provide definitive care. With the LUCAS in
place, the hospital will place the patient on extracorporeal
membrane oxygenation (ECMO), which is an advanced
type of heart-lung bypass machine that allows for oxygen-
August 2019 • 37

T
he 69th Annual 4-Wall Handball Na-
tional Championships were held at Los
Caballeros Sports Village in Fountain
Valley from June 26-30, 2019. More than 300
players from as far away as Ireland, Mexico,
and New York competed in both amateur and
professional divisions, with LAFD Handball
turning out 13 players with some great results.
Engineer John Libby (FS-80) led team
LAFD, bringing home another Gold in the
Golden Masters Singles (50 +). Libby’s final’s
match against San Francisco Battalion Chief
Dean Chrispen was one of the most exciting
of the tournament. Their rivalry dates back to
Sports Days, which is a multi-sport competi-
tion between LA and San Francisco Fire De-
partments that has been going on for decades.
Assistant Chief Roy Harvey (FPB) won
his first National Title in the Super Masters
Singles “B” (60 +). Jesus Pasos (retired) placed
2nd in the Super Masters Singles. Captain I
Alex Garcia (FS-9) placed 2nd in the Seniors
Singles (35 +), and 2nd in the Seniors Doubles.
Ron Bruno (retired) placed 2nd in the Dia-
mond Masters “B” (70 +).
LAFD handled the cooking duties for
the tournament on Friday, with master chef
Craig Nielsen in charge of the volunteers. The
menu consisted of 100 lbs. of tri-tip, 80 lbs.
of lemon pepper chicken, with potato salad,
38 • August 2019
A
t the California Firefighter Summer
Games held in San Diego, LA City
Brown went undefeated to win the
Gold Medal in Softball. The squad beat San
Francisco Red 10-0 in the final game. There
were 38 teams that played in four divisions,
with Brown the winner of Division 1. They’ve
been playing together for 14 years now, and it’s
the 2nd Gold Medal for Brown in the last five
years. LA City’s Gangreen took the Bronze.
From top/left; Dan Griley, Steve Hiserman, Rick Garcia, Chad Corona, Clark Hills, Rob Hays, Brian
Farris, Mike Pagliuso, Marcus Jacobs, Eddie Matamoros, Joe Steiner and Corey Lenzen (not shown)
cole-slaw, baked beans and rolls. As usual, the
LAFD meal was the highlight of the tourna- Alex Garcia
ment. Handball Commissioner Jerry Puga, Ron Bruno
Captain Phil Dominguez, and Captain Ryon
Jones volunteered to help with cooking and
serving.
Retired Engineer Paula Perry came
down from Oregon to compete in the Women’s
Singles and Doubles, and retired Captain Joe
“the lung” Holguin competed in both “Golden
Masters B” and “Super Masters B” divisions.
Tournament veterans Sergio Guzman, David
Jess Pasos
Diaz, Christopher Yokoyama, and Ryon Jones
Roy Harvey
all moved up in class after winning titles in
previous National Championships. They com-
peted well but medals were only presented to
first and second place finishers. Besides han-
dling the cooking duties, Craig Nielsen and
Gary Maga competed in Super Masters Dou-
bles (60 +), finishing the tournament with an
exciting comeback from nine points behind to
force a tiebreaker, then a six point comeback in
the 11 point tie-breaker to win their match.
For LAFD players who have never
competed outside of a Department tournament,
you owe it to yourself to test your skills against
the greater handball community. It is a great
time!
John Libby and Dean Chrispen
O
n May 29, 2019, Fire Station 10-A cel-
ebrated Captain II Tom Jaramillo’s
last shift of his 34-year career on the
LAFD. Captain Dan Fiori from 47’s cooked a
magnificent Filet Mignon dinner with all the
trimmings, which was enjoyed by all. Stories
of past and present were shared around the
fire pit until the early morning hours. Another
great chapter in LAFD history has just been
completed. Good luck Tom in your retirement!
Photo and article by David Blaire

August 2019 • 39
I
f you suffer a work-related injury and you
are represented by an attorney, you can take
legal action against that attorney if he/she
makes mistakes on your case that affect your
rights and recovery. But what if you elect to
go it alone and handle the case yourself. Who
is to blame if your case goes south? The an-
swer is simple - you are responsible and you’ll
have no one else to blame. We frequently hear
in law that, “He who represents himself has a
fool for a client.” Years ago, as a prosecutor,
I often saw defendants act In Pro Per (repre-
sent themselves) and the result was always the
same - GUILTY. As a workers’ compensation
attorney, I’ve seen it time and time again when
an injured firefighter doesn’t think an attorney
is necessary and everything can be done in “pro
per”.
Well, when I see a building on fire, I
call 911 and ask for help. I’ll try to help but
I’m out of my league in trying to do anything
of substance. The same goes for you and your
work comp claim. Keep that in mind as I recite
a true story that demonstrates just how foolish
it is to represent yourself.
Firefighter X has worked for 26 years. letter stated that if he disagreed with the deci- ologists and had he chosen either of them, his
In 2011, he developed an arrhythmia which sion, he could file an application for claim with claim would have been accepted. In fact, I per-
required medication. He filed a workers’ com- the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board sonally knew both of those doctors.
pensation claim with his department and then within one year from the date of his alleged in- On the other hand, the new QME panel
was notified by the work comp claims admin- jury. The FF decided not to do anything further contained three doctors that I would describe
istrator that they would investigate his claim once again. as unsympathetic to injured workers. Further,
and decide on whether to accept or deny li- In late 2018, his heart condition wors- these doctors feel that the “heart presumption”
ability. He was told that because he was un- ened. His cardiologist decided he need a surgi- granted to firefighters is unfair and the doctors
represented, he would need to be examined by cal procedure and that he would need to be off look for ways to rebut or overcome it. The FF
a Qualified Medical Examiner (QME). The work for a period of time. The FF then decided sheepishly stated, “I guess I really screwed up,
claims examiner then obtained a list of three to file another claim for injury and he did so didn’t I?”
Qualified Medical Examiners (QMES) from again, without the assistance of an attorney. So just what did our FF do wrong and
the State and advised our FF that he had 10 The process repeated itself with a different what should he have done differently? While
days to choose one of the three and if he did claims adjuster. The adjuster hired a private in- heart trouble is a presumptive injury, that
not, then the claims adjuster would select one. vestigator to interview the FF and without con- doesn’t mean it’s automatic. And even if the
At that point, the FF began to feel better even sulting an attorney, the FF agreed. After the claim is accepted, how do you know if you are
though he was continuing to take medication interview, another QME panel was requested receiving all appropriate workers’ compensa-
to control the arrhythmias. He therefore decid- with our FF being given ten days to pick a doc- tion benefits?
ed to ignore the letter and not choose a QME. tor. The 10 days elapsed without a selection, In my opinion, Mr. FF should have re-
His claim was therefore denied. and at that point, the FF decided to consult us. tained a knowledgeable attorney to assist in
About six months later, he received I spent more than an hour with him filing his claim. At the very least, once he re-
another letter from the claims adjuster advis- and reviewed all of his documentation for both ceived the “delay notice” and the panel of three
ing him that because he failed to select a QME heart claims. I pointed out to him that the first QME’s. Once he chose one of the doctors, I
from the list, his claim was being denied. The panel of QMEs contained two excellent cardi- would have then entered into his claim as his

40 • August 2019

attorney and advised the doctor of my repre-
sentation. I would have advised the QME of the
exact nature of the claim, a brief interpretation
of the heart presumption, and my belief as to
what permanent disability Mr. FF had as a re-
sult of his condition. Obviously, none of that
occurred which then led to the denial of his
claim.
Once the claim was denied, Mr. FF
should have consulted with an attorney im-
mediately to see how the claim should be ap-
pealed to the workers’ compensation appeals
board within the statutory time frame. That
too, did not occur which meant Mr. FF allowed
the statute of limitations to expire.
Mr. FF’s condition worsened in 2018.
Because he now needed surgery, it could be
argued that continuing to work as a FF caused
his condition to worsen thereby resulting in a
“new” injury. By filing a new claim, Mr. FF
initiated the workers’ compensation process all
over again. That meant additional time for his
employer to investigate the claim and obtain
an entirely new and different QME panel. Mr.
FF was not so lucky this time around with the
new set of doctors and I so advised him. He
was also lucky that the claims adjuster didn’t
select the QME once the 10 day mark passed.
I reviewed the list and advised him to select the
least evil of the three doctors. Mr. FF followed
my advice and he then contacted the claims
examiner with the name of the doctor and the
date of the exam.
Once the above was done, I entered into
the case. I served the claims examiner with my
notice of representation and demanded she
serve me with the complete medical file from
the treating doctor. I also requested a tran-
scribed copy of the statement my client pro-
vided to their private investigator (something
no one should ever do without consulting an
attorney).
I then drafted a letter to the QME in
which I provided a detailed description of my
client’s duties as a FF throughout his career. I
also educated the QME on the heart presump-
tion and why it applies to my client’s condition.
I advised the QME that he could not attribute
my client’s condition to any so-called pre-ex-
isting condition or congenital abnormality.
By the time you read this article, the
QME’s report will have been prepared and
hopefully my client’s claim will be accepted. I
hope to get him reimbursed for his out of pock-
et medical expenses and get his time missed
from work converted to IOD pay. I also plan to
recover permanent disability compensation for
him based on a disability rating provided for
in the American Medical Association Guides
on Impairment. My client is currently back at
work and plans to continue working for the
foreseeable future. So far, the adjuster has not
raised a statute of limitations defense but she
has not yet referred her case to outside coun-
sel. It’s entirely possible such an attorney will
raise that issue and argue that while my client’s
condition obviously worsened, it not a result of
a new injury but rather, the direct result of the
original claim.
As you can see, what might seem
simple to the casual observer can in fact be a
can of worms. Yes, certain injuries are pre-
sumptive for firefighters (heart trouble, cancer,
pneumonia, hernias, etc.). Many times, those
claims are accepted without a fight and every-
thing goes smoothly. But why chance it? Con-
sulting with an attorney doesn’t cost you a cent.
It is illegal for an attorney to charge you for a
consultation and indeed to even represent you.
Attorneys only recover a fee (9-15%) of what-
ever you recover at the end of your case. If you
don’t recover, your attorney doesn’t receive a
fee.
I often meet with potential clients and
conclude they don’t need representation. That
might have occurred here had I met with Mr.
FF in 2011. He would have seen one of my two
friendly doctors and I’m pretty sure I know
what the result would have been. Despite writ-
ing countless articles and speaking to employ-
ee groups about the risks of handling claims
without an attorney, people still do it. They
are told by friends that “you don’t need an at-
torney” or perhaps they just distrust attorneys.
I happen to be certified by the State
Bar as a specialist in workers’ compensation.
That means in addition to passing the regular
state bar exam, I have practiced workers’ com-
pensation for a minimum of five years, have
conducted a minimum number of hearings at
the workers’ compensation appeals board and
depositions of doctors. More importantly, I
passed a second bar exam in workers’ compen-
sation. Do you need a specialist in workers’
compensation? No, but it sure helps. It also
helps to have an attorney who is knowledge-
able in representing safety members and the
special benefits they receive.
So, in the future, be smart in handling
your own claim. Talk with an attorney before
you make decisions that affect your career.
Don’t be the person that we refer to as one rep-
resenting himself who has a fool for a client.
August 2019 • 41
T
he single, most useful exercise for firefighters is the deadlift. Ed
Kranski, a retired firefighter of 30 years said, “Deadlifting is by
far the most important real-life strength exercise. When you pick
anything heavy up - you don’t squat, bench, or snatch it - you deadlift it.
If a heavy beam falls on another firefighter, you deadlift it off them. If
you’re dragging a fallen firefighter out of a burning building, you dead-
lift them.” The deadlift is the king of compound exercises that when
performed correctly builds overall strength that translates directly to the
fireground.

PROPER TECHNIQUE
Often times deadlifting gets overlooked for fear of injury; how-
ever, when performed correctly deadlifts are safe and may even help pre-
vent future injuries. Start light and practice proper form before adding
weight. Remember, technique is always more important than increasing
weight. Also, practicing proper technique will make your body more
efficient, utilizing all the proper muscles to increase strength gains.

To perform a proper deadlift, follow these steps:

• Stand with your midfoot under the bar hip-width apart
• Bend over and grab the bar shoulder-width apart
• Bend your knees until your shins touch the bar
• Lift your chest and straighten your lower back
• Tighten your core and grip
• Lock your elbows
• Stand up with the weight
• Lock your hips and knees
• Hold the weight at the top
• Return the weight to the floor

That is one repetition. How many repetitions you can perform

will depend on your experience, the weight you’re pulling, and program-
ming. There are three different grips you can use to deadlift: overhand,
underhand, and alternate grip. Using the overhand grip is the most com-
mon, but you may use an alternate grip to help you lift heavier weights.
To help prevent injury and increase strength gains, follow these
cues to ensure proper technique:
• Shoulders: When you bend over, your shoulders should be
directly over the bar. Don’t shrug or roll your shoulders and
don’t squeeze your shoulder blades.
• Feet: Keep your feet flat on the floor.
• Back: When you bend over, keep a neutral back with no
rounding or excessive arch. Your head should be inline with
the rest of your spine. Don’t lean back at the top of the lift.
• Legs: Drive up with your legs. Keep knees fixed throughout
the movement without bending in or out.
• Lift: Don’t jerk the bar off the floor. Pull the bar up slowly.
Keep a fluid motion from top to bottom. Take a deep breath at
the bottom, hold at the top, and exhale at the bottom.

The most common concern when performing the deadlift is get-

ting a back injury. On the contrary, performing the deadlift with proper

42 • August 2019
technique will strengthen your back to avoid back injuries in the field.
When the deadlift is improperly performed it can become dangerous,
which is why it is important to focus on proper technique before adding
weight. Dr. Stuart McGill says, “your spine is like the mast on a ship -
the rigging holds it firm so it can’t buckle. Your trunk muscles around
your spine are that rigging. They hold your spine firm so it can bear
heavy loads safely and pain free.” Deadlifting strengthens your trunk
muscles, increases back endurance, and builds safe movement habits.
Always consult with a physician before performing physical activity
when recovering from an injury or surgery.

DEADLIFTS ARE THE REAL DEAL

“The best exercises for firefighters are not the ones that will have
you looking good on the beach. They are the ones that could potentially
keep you alive when you need your strength the most,” according to
John Annillo, military, law enforcement, and firefighter fitness coach.
The result of failure for a firefighter is worse than missing a lift or not
hitting a new personal record. The ability to effectively work on the fire-
ground translates to lives lost or saved, and deadlifting is the ultimate
test of strength and effective muscle recruitment patterns.
Ed Kranski adds, “The stronger you are, the easier demand-
ing physical tasks you face as a firefighter become.” Increasing your
strength in the deadlift will increase strength throughout your whole
body, from big muscles like the glutes to your hands for grip strength.
The deadlift works more muscles than any other movement, the primary
muscles being the glutes, hamstrings, spinal erectors, and quads. Also,
the core stability needed for deadlifting targets all the major muscle
groups in the waist, upper and lower back, and hips for correct posture
and core strength. This helps prevent back injuries, the most common
injury among firefighters, strengthening the back and all surrounding
muscles.
Increasing your strength with the deadlift will help you build
strength to perform laboring tasks like stretching hose lines, raising
ground ladders, forcing doors open, pulling ceilings, and lifting a victim
or fellow firefighter. This impact on overall strength and efficiency in the
fireground leads to lives lost or saved.

Sources: The Firehouse Tribune, Barbend, Breaking Muscle, Stronglifts

August 2019 • 43
44 • August 2019
 DAVID REJINO, Captain I, FS 72-B JORGE PEREZ, Captain I, MFC-C

TUESDAY, AUGUST 6, 2019 TUESDAY, AUGUST 6, 2019

Walnut Grove at Tierra Rejada Farms Fire Station 4

3370 Sunset Valley Road, Moorpark CA 450 E Temple St, Los Angeles CA

BBQ Dinner – 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM Luncheon - 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM

$60 per person includes dinner, tax & gift Call Jorge Perez (951) 852-3378
If you can’t make the luncheon,
Call Fire Station 72 (818) 756-8672 join us for a light breakfast from 7 AM to 10AM.

DAVID BOWDRE, Captain I, FS 43-C BOB DECUIR, FF/Diver, FS 110-B

SATURDAY, AUGUST 17, 2019 SATURDAY, AUGUST 24, 2019
Marina Del Rey Marriot
Greg’s Garage
4100 Admiralty Way, Marina Del Rey CA
10650 Owensmouth Avenue, Chatsworth CA

Social Hour - 5:00 PM • Dinner - 6:00 PM

Reception - 6:00 PM Dinner Time - 7:00 PM
Dancing until 10:00 PM
Dancing - 9:00 PM to Midnight
Italian made to order - No cost
$65 per person
Call Dana Decuir (805) 498-9907 or (805) 559-3262
Call Margaret Bowdre - (626) 710-3150 or
RSVP by August 20, 2019
RSVP at www.davidjamesbowdre.com

Time to MATCH UP!

Our brother FF/PM Roger Sackaroff assigned to FS
63-C needs your help. His son Jesse, who is just 7 years
of age, has recently been diagnosed with a serious
blood disorder - Aplastic Anemia - and is in need of a
bone marrow transplant.

Please find it in your heart to see if you are a match.

The application process only takes 10 minutes of your
time, and a simple cheek swab is all you need to see if
you are a match. The marrow donation is safe, free, and
confidential.

Register to save a life by texting CUREJESSE to 61474

or by visiting join.bethematch.org/curejesse
August 2019 • 45
 MEMBERS
Harold A. Gilbert, Engineer. Appointed May 19, 1958.
Retired on a service pension July 3, 1989 from FS 92-C.
Passed away June 27, 2019.

Alvin E. Miller, Fireman. Appointed January 24, 1949.

Retired on a service pension October 1, 1975 from FS 88-C.
Passed away June 28, 2019.

Donald C. Welcker, Engineer. Appointed November 24, 1988.

Retired on a service pension January 29, 2019 from FS 23-B.
Passed away July 1, 2019.

Gene R. Miller, Captain II. Appointed December 19, 1955.

Retired on a service pension July 20, 1986 from FS 95-B.
Passed away July 1, 2019.

William A. Sommers, Captain I. Appointed February 10, 1968.

Retired on a service pension July 16, 2000 from FS 91-B.
Passed away July 5, 2019.

Dale N. Piper, Firefighter II. Appointed April 18, 1959.

Retired on a disability pension April 1, 1980 from FS 96-A.
Passed away July 6, 2019.

John J. Adams, Battalion Chief. Appointed February 1, 1955.

Retired on a service pension June 29, 1995 from Batt 17-A.
Passed away July 12, 2019.

FAMILY
Joyce L. Burton, surviving spouse of Kenneth W. Burton, passed away June 14, 2019.
Sharon K. Thomas, spouse of James L. Thomas, passed away June 19, 2019.
Mary L. Klasse, spouse of Gary B. Klasse, passed away July 4, 2019.
Anne R. Toon, surviving spouse of James H. Toon, passed away July 11, 2019.

46 • August 2019
W
ant to reduce stress, combat depression, keep men-
tally stimulated, or have a sense of purpose and com-
munity? Get involved and become a VOLUNTEER.
Not only does volunteering offer vital help to people in need,
support worthwhile causes and community, but the benefits to
you can be even greater. My personal story of wanting to truly
give and not expecting something back in return began when my
kids were little, and we traveled on a church mission trip to a
third world country. My husband, kids, and myself all gave and
loved with our whole hearts thinking those we worked with could
not give back. This couldn’t have been farther from the truth!
The smiles of joy and appreciation that these families in need
gave were priceless! Living by the following motto has been very
rewarding to me—Learn to love without condition, talk without
bad intention, give without any reason, and most of all, care for
people without any expectation.
Many fire spouses ask how they can get involved and start
to help. One way is through the Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief
Association. Please join the many events the Relief Association
hosts all year long in order to help raise funds and support our
widows, orphans and disabled firefighters.
Paid Advertisement:
As a fire wife, we get to hear our spouses share about the
camaraderie at the fire station, as it is their second home. In all
honesty, and I speak for myself, I cannot help but feel an itty bit
left out at times. So hence the reason how @HousewivesofLAFD
on Instagram came about. It’s my way to be a part of and to give
back and show support and encouragement to other fire wives. If
you feel similar, or just want to be part of something bigger, get
involved and come meet other fire families. Your participation
will allow you to feel part of the fire community.
If you are interested in being a volunteer, please go to
https://www.wodff.org/volunteer/ and sign up. It’s that easy to
start making a difference in someone’s life—and maybe even
yours. For further information, contact the Relief’s Volunteer Co-
ordinator Juliet Brandolino. Her email is Jbrandolino@lafra.org.
Below are some dates and events that you can help out at,
but there are many others throughout the year….so sign up!
Please save these dates:
Monday, September 23 Golf Tournament
Saturday, November 2 LAFRA Open House
Saturday, December 7 Holiday Dinner Dance
August 2019 • 47

IN MEMORY OF ROSS L. WILLIAMS—
BATTALION CHIEF
I met Ross Williams when he was quite
ill. I was just a visitor to his home accompa-
nying friends of his. Mr. Williams treated me
with kindness and sincerity. I was like a kid
asking him questions about his career and he
responded politely to my inquiry. He told me
he had had a great life with little regret and I
went away feeling I had met a fine man.
Mary-Lynn Gregory
IN MEMORY OF ROSS L. WILLIAMS—
BATTALION CHIEF
I first met Ross@ Fire Station 102 “A”
when he would work a “sod” with us as the
“2”. He was assigned to 89B. As true a gentle-
man and fire officer as you’ll hope to meet. At
times he’d come to me and say “I’m on the ra-
dio across the street at Valley College for my
sons baseball game and pick him up for a run.
A couple years down the road he became Batt
14 “B” after I went to 89 “B”. He had a place in
his heart for 89’s. I could go on and on but Ross
was the “one of the best to ever wear a gold
badge.” My condolences to the family and the
LAFD as a whole because “they” don’t appoint
people like Ross anymore.
Michael Martin
IN MEMORY OF LEROY J. LUCAS—
BATTALION CHIEF
I was Chief Lucas’ “Aide” in the early
eighties. He was a soft-spoken leader who was
a mentor and roll model. Chief Lucas expected
his Officers to work hard, train, and motivate
48 • August 2019
their personnel. Perhaps this was due to his life
experience in the oil fields of Louisiana and as
a combat Marine. One of his many accomplish-
ment was the procurement and restoration of
the Gorder Water Tower fire apparatus. This
was a major task spearheaded by Bob Munoa.
This apparatus sits proudly in the museum at
Fire Station 27 as a tribute to Chief Lucas, the
members of Fire Station 12, Battalion 2, and
the other Stations that volunteered their time
and effort.
Chief, I thank you for putting up with
me and the many heart to heart conversations
we had in the sedan. I will always be grateful.
Rest in peace my boss.
Tony Hidalgo
IN MEMORY OF LEROY J. LUCAS—
BATTALION CHIEF
LeRoy! …my man!! Thanks for the
days at 94’s ...back in early 70’s.
Great memories ……..Well done!
Don Gross
IN MEMORY OF LEONARD L. ED-
WARDS—FIREFIGHTER II
My family and I deeply appreciate you
and Officers and Board Members of the L.A.
Firemen’s Relief Association. I/We miss my
Dad so very much. We are very proud of him.
He was an “extra” in the film, Towering Infer-
no! So handsome! Every year teaching children
fire safety at my elementary school; he brought
the Dalmatian “Champ” with him and gave
each student a badge. I feel like I want to tell
you everything about my Dad. Thank you for
honoring him. We proudly display your mean-
ingful gift of the flag in the beautiful display
case, along with the plaque indicating his com-
mitment to his LAFD career.
Please know how much my family and
I treasure your gift. My Father and my hero.
God bless all firefighters and their families.
Sincerely,
Valerie
Proud to be his daughter
IN MEMORY OF ELIAS DE LA HOZ-
-FIREMAN
Met Del in early 80’s when I was trans-
ferred to A-Unit 3 at FS 99. Great guy and PC.
Used to make some incredible meals. Had a lot
of fun with him at the station. Used to keep us
all laughing. He owned an apple orchard near
Grand Junction, CO. Stopped by one time. Lost
track of him when he left 99’s and moved to
Fallbrook. Prayers to his family. He will be
missed. RIP Del.
Terry Depackh
IN MEMORY OF JOHN S. NELSON—
CAPTAIN II
I met Captain Nelson as a young boy,
he would come by the house to visit my father.
Years later I was his relief at Fire Station 46. He
had SO much energy. He would take any call
anytime. He invented the “Jack of Life”, which
he kept on the Engine and it actually worked
quite well. When John made Captain II, I again
got to work with him a few times and again he
was still full of energy and loved working at
Fire Station 33. I asked him one time have you
ever considered working at a slower station,
and John said I would go crazy, I need the ac-
tivity. He was amazing.
My condolences to the Nelson family.
RIP Captain John Nelson
Kevin Kearns
IN MEMORY OF JOHN S. NELSON—
CAPTAIN II
I drove John as an AO at FS 102 for
about five years. I was fortunate to have been
there when it was a task force, it eventually be-
coming a light force only. I have to say he was
one of the calmest officers on the fire ground
that I even worked with. He had built a great
team at 102’s and we were very fortunate to
have had him as our Captain. My condolences
to Dianne and his children…RIP Cap.

Trevor Richman

IN MEMORY OF JOHN S. NELSON—

CAPTAIN II

John was a class act. I never worked

with him but I remember late in his career
when he wanted to go back to 33’s before he
retired. I was coming out of Special Duty and
John heard through the grapevine that I wanted
to go to 33’s also. He called me to chat about
it and I couldn’t talk him into putting in for it
even though he had way more seniority. He was
adamant that a guy coming out of Special Duty

FiremensRelief.org
should get his choice of spots. That is the old
school, selfless attitude that John possessed.
My condolences to his family. RIP John.

at your fingertips
Chuck Butler

IN MEMORY OF JOHN S. NELSON—

CAPTAIN II
Find Relief PPO Medical Plan details
I met John when we were both trans-
ferred into “new” 33’s on the A shift in the
early 70’s when the station opened. He was an
Access Relief member benefits and services
engineer who loved being on the engine (rath-
er than the pump) because the engine was so View the Firemen’s Grapevine Magazine
busy. I was assigned to the truck and starting
a study program for the Auto-Fireman exam Check out upcoming events
when John saw that I was not very well orga-
nized in my approach to studying for the writ-
ten exam and made some suggestions in terms
of time spent in various Dept. manuals versus
operational manuals and other reference mate-
rial. John’s suggestions worked out well for me
in the written portion of the process and I will
be forever thankful to him for taking interest
in a young fireman who really needed guid-
ance in organizing a study program. We kept
in touch after I changed assignments due to a
couple of promotions when one day, I got a call
from John when I was working at FS 41 as an
engineer. He said, “Seagrave has a couple of
ladder trucks ready for delivery and they need
someone to drive them out to California from
Green bay, Wisconsin.” I said “Count me in.”’
and that was the beginning of great adventure
and lots of stories that John and I laughed about
for years.
God Bless you, John. You’ve entered
into well-deserved rest.

Mike Littleton

August 2019 • 49
 What Is The...
Extinguisher
Fund?

The brain child of Ted Bailie, retired from the

Experts say it is in your best interest to review your
Estate Plan every five years.
Reasons to update your Estate Plan:
• Marriage or divorce (yours or a beneficiary’s)
• New family members
• Home or property sold or purchased
LAFD and LAFRA, your station’s Extinguisher Fund is
a simple way to collect donations for the Widows, Or-
phans and Disabled Firefighters’ Fund. Ted saw the
accumulation of change that the cook dumped into
the mess fund box each shift and had a better idea.
If this change was instead collected for the WODFF he
figured it could really add up. With an average of 50

• Change in financial situation or assets cents per day per station, in a year there would be...

• Sold stock or other assets well, you can do the math!

So take your turn in the cooking rotation and
• Change of state residence
remember to drop all your change into your station’s
• Change in tax laws
extinguisher. There should be one in every firehouse.
Visit And any loose change in your pockets, any that you
Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association FIREMENSRELIEF.ORG
for details find in the TV chairs, or hoarded in the “ashtray” of
members in good standing are entitled
your vehicle can be thrown in for good measure.
to a one-time, reimbursement Estate
The Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firefighters’
Planning Benefit of up to $600. And,
Fund is the heart of the Relief Association. This fund
starting July 1, 2015 a new service, the
provides assistance to our firefighters and families
$1,200 Trust Preparation Advancement.
who are faced with personal difficulties and tragedies.
Donations are the sole means of support for this Fund.
Firefighters risk their lives to protect the com-
munity on a daily basis. Thus, they and their fami-
Get your Estate Planning
lies can be comforted in knowing that the “Fire
“Getting Started Kit” today
Department Family,” supported by the Widows, Or-
by calling Marlene Casillas,
phans & Disabled Firefighters’ Fund, is there for them
Development & Marketing
in times of need.
Director, at (323) 259-5217 or
email at MCasillas@LAFRA.org
50 • August 2019
 Submitted by Frank Borden • Director of Operations, LAFDHS

LAFD HISTORY – Old Engine 49 and Old Fireboat 2

at the Union Oil Fire – 1951
Frank’s Note: There have been a few
refinery fires early this year that brings back
the story of the Union Oil Fire in 1951. This
was a major fire and involved two LAFD ap-
paratus that the Historical Society have re-
stored or are completing. Old Engine 49, the
1923 Seagrave at the Harbor Museum and Old
Fireboat 2, “The Ralph J. Scott” in San Pedro
at Berth 87.
The following story was written by then
Captain Bill Goss for the Firemen’s Grapevine,
September 1951. Bill, who retired as a Deputy
Chief many years ago was known for having
many talents including research and writing.
It was a complete report of a major fire at the
Union Oil Refinery that involved the LAFD
including a great story about Old Engine 49
which has been beautifully restored by retired
Engineers Mark Howell and Leo Dempsey
after nine years of work. Old Fireboat 2 has
been under restoration by volunteers from the
LAFD Historical Society for 15 years and is
scheduled for completion by the end of this
year. I have taken excerpts from the original 9
page article for this issue on our history. By the
way, I remember seeing the tremendous loom
up from this fire when I lived in South Los An-
geles.
in a pipe trench breaking connections to other
tanks. In a very short time there was consider-
able ground fire spreading to other tanks caus-
ing them to fail and catch fire. The men man-
ning the two monitors were forced to abandon
their position. After the fire the two monitors
were found to have completely melted down.
At approximately 2:07 pm the first LAFD as-
signment arrived consisting of Engines 38 and
49, Truck 38, Salvage 36 along with Chief Ad-
ams of Battalion 6Engine 38 laid a supply line
from a company hydrant into the tank location.
Engine 49 laid a 3 ½” from a hydrant
and siamesed it into two 2 ½ inch lines which
were used on a tank and the pipe trench. Due
to the extensive leaks and overflowing dikes
an explosion took place in the pipe trench near
engine 38 damaging the water supply system
cutting off the water to the Engine forcing the
men manning the hose lines and the Engineer
to abandon their positions. Engine 38 lost six
sections of 2 ½” hose that were burned up.
By this time there was a roaring fire
around two more tanks and Chief Adams
requested additional help. Assistant Chief
Quinn, Commander of Division1B arrived to
take command. The additional LAFD compa-
nies were: Engines 85, 53, 36, 79, 40, and 64.
Rescue 36, Engine 7 and Fire Boat 2 (The
Ralph J. Scott) were called in later.
Boat 2 was moved into Union Oil’s
Marine Terminal to pump into a 10 inch fuel
line bringing water up into the plant. Fire boat
2 pumped for a total of 30 hours after relieving
four Navy tugs. Boat 2 with a capacity of over
11,000 g.p.m.’s used only two of its six pumps
at a time alternating them every hour.
As additional help rolled in the strategy
of fighting the fire by confining it was aug-
mented. Up to this point all efforts had been of
little avail as the leakage due to ruptures in the
pipe lines and valves in each successive dike
area had taken fire. Also the severe shortage
of water at this stage made protection of expo-
sures a tremendous problem. The pumpers of
newly arriving engine companies were placed
at improvised connections on the salt water
system coming up from the pump house in the
West Basin. These pumpers relayed water into
the mains of the fire fighting system for other
pumps and to supply hand lines laid directly
from hydrants. At this time the entire operation
at the refinery was shut down. The Union Oil
employees were closing off valves and draining

THE UNION OIL REFINERY FIRE

In 1951, the Union Oil Company’s
Wilmington refinery sat atop an elongated hill
that runs south from Anaheim Street between
the Harbor West Basin and Gaffey Street. It
was one of the major refineries on the west
coast producing vast quantities of all types
of petroleum products. The tank farm portion
ran almost the entire distance of the refinery
property. In the center of the tank farm were
many large tanks of 80,000 barrel capacity
containing gasoline, blending stock and diesel
fuel. On July 12, 1951, an explosion occurred
in a gasoline tank just before 2 pm. The Union
Oil Company maintained a fire Department on
the plant as well as a brigade made up of tech-
That is LAFD Engine 53 in the foreground. It is a 1940 Ken-
nical workers. They responded and laid lines
worth-United 1250 gpm Triple. Known as the “Coke Wagon
into nearby monitors. When the first tank ex-
“by the firemen because it looked like one at that time.
ploded the roof of the tank blew off and landed
August 2019 • 51
 One of several tanks on fire. Notice
all the empty protein foam cans.

Union Oil diagram drawn by

placed at Road 10 and B Street where it was
Bill Goss for the Grapevine
Old Fireboat 2 circa 1951 coming out of the boathouse. It was paint- used to transfer water from the 10” fuel line
article. Tanks 99 and 100 is
ed Navy gray during WWII and remained that way into the 1950’s. coming up from the marine terminal to the re-
where the fire started and
finery. The operation consisted of taking salt
spread to tanks 101, 102,
water from the line on one side of the street
279, 280 and 293. The En-
and pumping it into the fore main on the other
gine companies and hose
side of the street. Engine 49 laid 400 feet of
lines are located in their
3and ½” hose and 400 feet of 2and1/2” hose.
positions fighting the fire.
Counting the relief pump that was sent to the
fire from 49’s quarters their pumps worked a
total time of 104 hours and 40 minutes.

Frank’s Conclusion
It is amazing to think that we have pre-
served Old Engine 49 for all of us and thou-
sands of visitors to enjoy. What a history of
exposed tanks when one of the lines exploded (The following is a brief summary of Engine service it had. Many of the stories about it
like a Bangalore torpedo spraying diesel fuel 49’s actions at the incident) and the members assigned to it may never be
over the men from Engine 40 and a crew of Engine 49 coming in south on Road known, but it is a story like this one that Bill
Union Oil men nearby operating a hose line. In 12 laid a line of 3and1/2” hose from a hydrant Goss wrote that makes a person appreciate
the confusion the nozzleman abandon the line and reduced it to two 2and ½” lines, one being our rich history. We thank Mark Howell who
causing the hose to flail around knocking three used on the pipe trench and the other on tank arranged to purchase the Seagrave and work
employees into an adjacent pipe trench. They 101. Engine 49’s 1000 g.p.m. pump (shop 160) on the restoration with the late Leo Dempsey
were the only injuries during the four days of working from the hydrant on Road 12, pumped and many others at Fire Station 49 for almost 9
fire fighting operations. continuously for 47 hours and 45 minutes with- years for maintaining an important part of the
Shortly after 8pmof the first evening out a shutdown. The 1923 Seagrave used 510 LAFD’s past. More about our National Histor-
Chief Quinn felt that the situation was under gallons of gasoline. Engine 49’s Wagon was ic Landmark Fireboat 2 in the following pages.
control and the spread of the fire definitely
halted. With the situation improving, the com-
panies working at the fire were relieved start- Visitors at the “Ralph J. Scott” during Fleet Week.
ing at about 10pm. For the two days, the 13th
and 14th, operations consisted of protecting
four tanks and letting the ground fire burn
out under control. The final attack on the fire
around the valves was made on the 15th (three
days after it started) using a combination of fog
streams, foam and dry chemical. At 4:32 pm
the last vestige of fire was out and the battle
was over. Acting Division Commander Joe
Hoffman was in charge of the final operations.
During the fire fighting operations a to-
tal of twenty five 2 ½” hand lines, three 2 ½”
foam lines and more than 27,000 feet of 2 ½””
had been laid. Some 3,000 feet of 1and1/2” had
also been laid but very little had been used.
In excess of 373,100 pounds of foam powder
had been and the pile of empty 50 pound cans
looked like they would fill a two story house
the size of 66’s quarters.

52 • August 2019
FLEET WEEK
It is time for the Port of LA Fleet week
and opening Old Fireboat 2 up to the hundreds
of visitors that come to the 4 day event. We
have participated in this event since it started
in the Port and each year it is bigger than be-
fore. This is the opportunity for the Historical
Society to tell about the rich 78 year history of
the Boat on active duty and then the more than
15 years of the restoration project. This year
we can talk about moving from a “shipyard”
operation to a Museum scheduled to open
sometime mid 2020.
This is a great time for you and your
family to come for a visit to not only see our This is the current view of the boat that visitors have from the floor of the tent.
boat but get aboard a US Navy ship for a tour. Our recommendation is to build a deck level platform and ramp to the deck in
Remember, we are looking for volun- the Phase I upgrade of the tent. We are having a large model built of the boat
teer docents when the Fireboat Museum opens so we can point out the features of the boat at deck level.
next year. Our ultimate goal was to restore the
Boat and open it as a museum. That can only
be done now with enough volunteers to keep it
We envision building a permanent structure for the “Ralph J. Scott” on
open at least one day a week to start and avail-
land that resembles its old boathouse it was in for 60 years at Bert 227
able for special tours and events. How about 3
on Terminal Island. This is a Phase II request for funds from the Port of LA.
platoons of volunteers. Those of you active and
retired LAFD members who have worked in
the Harbor or especially on a fireboat would be
prime candidates, but we can use all the help
we can get so the volunteer pool is beyond the
harbor. Please consider this opportunity to give
back what you have received on the LAFD to
serve others as a volunteer...

FUTURE MUSEUM
The Port of LA has offered support for
various projects this year through a program
called Public Access Funds. Organizations
such as the LAFD Historical Society have
the opportunity to make requests to the Har-
bor Commission. At the time of this writing
we have made a request for funding for the
Fireboat museum structure. Phase I would in- AUGUST 2019
volve an upgrade of the tent the boat is now
housed in at Berth 87. The goal is to make the
tent more secure and modify it to help make
it into a temporary museum until a permanent
structure can be built. That is phase II of our
request. To build a permanent structure that
resembles Old Boat 2’s quarters when it was
on Terminal Island at Berth 227. There are
various possibilities for a location on the wa-
terfront including the new San Pedro Market.
The Harbor Commission will make their deci-
sions in September of this year. We appreciate
the early support for our project from the San
Pedro Chamber of Commerce.

August 2019 • 53
54 • August 2019
 LOS ANGELES FIREMEN’S RELIEF ASSOCIATION MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES
June 5, 2019
CALL TO ORDER
President Bob Steinbacher called the
Meeting of the Board of Trustees of the
Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association
to order at 9:14 a.m.
ROLL CALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: winners with their scholarship awards.
Bob Steinbacher, President
Jeff Cawdrey, Vice President
Trustee Frank Aguirre
Trustee Gene Bednarchik
Trustee Kenneth Breskin
Trustee Henry Gasbarri
Trustee Rick Godinez
Trustee Steve Berkery
Trustee Tim Freeman
Trustee Danny Wu
Trustee John Jacobsen
Trustee Jim Duffy
Trustee Tyler Tomich
Trustee Craig White
Trustee Gayle Sonoda
Trustee David Peters
Trustee Chris Stine
Trustee Juan Albarran - Pension
Trustee Tim Larson – Pension
Trustee Doak Smith – Pension
Todd Layfer - Executive Director
Liberty Unciano – Controller-Treasurer
MEMBERS ABSENT: the WODFF received a royalty check from
Trustee Joe Vigil
Trustee Richard Moody
Trustee Mike Sailhamer The Board entered into Executive Session
INVOCATION & Flag Salute
Rick Godinez led the invocation. Steve
Berkery led the flag salute.
RATIFICATION OF MINUTES
Bob Steinbacher entertained a motion
to ratify and approve the Board Meeting
Minutes of May 8, 2019. Juan Albarran
moved. Craig White seconded. There was
no discussion or objections.
Motion carried to approve the Board
Meeting Minutes of May 8, 2019.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
1) Rick Godinez congratulated and
presented the Scholarship Program
He indicated that this was the first year
that the Relief Association increased the
scholarship awards.
2) Bob Steinbacher provided a Pension
meeting update with the subsidies.
3) Bob Steinbacher referred to the DROP
Exit Seminar and indicated that it was very
informative and worthwhile. He indicated
that the communication department does
an outstanding job of educating members
on their benefits.
4) Bob Steinbacher referred to the
Pechanga Reunion and indicated that it
was a great event. Tim Larson thanked
everyone who helped at the event.
5) Bob Steinbacher informed the Board
that there will be a Medicare Informational
Seminar at the LAFRA office on June
26th.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
at 9:53 a.m.
The Board adjourned from Executive
Session at 10:22 a.m.
Member updates and a potential legal
matter was discussed during Executive
Session. No actions were taken.
AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT
Carlos Davis from the Harrington Group
presented their findings on the LAFRA
financial audit.
Tyler Tomich presented the following
motion.
The committee recommends and I so
move to accept the financial audit report
presented by the Harrington Group. There
was no discussion or objections.
Motion carried to accept the financial
audit report presented by the Harrington
Group.
VICE PRESIDENT’S REPORT
1) Jeff Cawdrey referred to the upcoming
conferences and indicated that the
deadline for the SIIA conference was
approaching. He referred to the Annual
IFEBP Conference in San Diego and
asked those interested to let him know so
that he can send in the registrations.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT
1) Todd Layfer indicated that they will
be meeting with the insurance brokers
to discuss the renewals for July 1st. He
indicated that he will report those renewals
at the next Board meeting.
2) Todd Layfer informed the Board that
Helig Oil in the amount of $719,266.83.
He indicated that this was the result from
a member’s bequest to the WODFF.
INVESTMENT COMMITTEE
REPORT
John Jacobsen informed that the site
visits for the 3 new investment funds
was completed in May. The Board
approved these investments in April. He
also indicated that Beacon Point will be
bringing potential candidates to replace
Lazard at a future Investment Committee
meeting which will be determined at a
August 2019 • 55
later date.
BUILDING COMMITTTEE REPORT
Juan Albarran reported on the repairs for
the building.
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 $954,185.29. There was
no discussion or objections.
Motion carried to pay the usual and
customary bills in the amount of
$954,185.29.
The committee recommends and I so
move to approve $150 for the LAFD
Promotional Badge Ceremony. There was
no discussion or objections.
Motion carried to approve $150 for the
LAFD Promotional Badge Ceremony.
MEDICAL COMMITTEE REPORT
Frank Aguirre presented the following
motion.
The committee recommends and I so
move to approve the medical bills totaling
$726,804.61. There was no discussion or
objections.
Motion carried to approve the medical
bills totaling $726,804.61.
Frank Aguirre provided an update on the
TPA RFP and indicated that they will hold
interviews on June 26th.
RELIEF COMMITTEE REPORT
Steve Berkery presented the following
motion.
The committee recommends and I so
56 • August 2019
move to pay:
The Sick & Injury benefits in the amount
of $53,103.14
The Estate Planning benefit in the amount
of $10,200
The Life & Accident Withdrawals in the
amount of $2,817
The Relief Death Benefits in the amount
of $30,000
There was no discussion or objections.
Motion carried to pay the above Relief
benefits.
Steve Berkery read the names of members
who recently passed and asked for a
moment of silence from the Board.
MEMORIALS
William M. Horton
John S. Nelson
Robert H. Setterberg
Homer M. Miller
Thomas C. Tolman
Gene F. Gallagher
ASSISTANCE COMMITTEE
Steve Berkery presented the following
motions.
The committee recommends and I so move
to accept the donations in the amount of
$27,543.19 to the Widows, Orphans &
Disabled Firemen’s Fund. There was no
discussion or objections.
Motion carried to accept the donations in
the amount of $27,543.19 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/WEB REPORT
Danny Wu reported that there are two
new full-page ads for the Grapevine. He
mentioned some featured articles for the
upcoming issue.
SETTING OF DATES
1) Hope for Firefighters – June 6th
2) Trustee Board Offsite – September 22nd
3) LAFD Invitational Golf Tourn. –
September 23rd
4) LAFRA Dinner Dance – December 7th
RETIREMENT DINNERS
1) Mike Raden – Saturday, June 8th B @
Raden Home (White)
2) Steve Perez – June 30th (Breskin)
3) Marcus Lidy – Saturday, July 20th A @
Brouwerij West Brewery (Burks)
4) Doug Weber – Wednesday, July 31st A
@ Huntington Bay Club (White)
5) David Rejino – Tuesday, August 6th C
@ Walnut Grove at Tierra Rejada Farms
(Aguirre)
6) Bob Decuir – Saturday, August 24th C
@ Greg’s Garage (Godinez)
ADJOURNMENT
Bob Steinbacher entertained a motion to
adjourn. Juan Albarran so moved. David
Peters seconded. There was no discussion
and no objections.
Motion carried to adjourn. The Board
of Trustees meeting adjourned at 11:09
a.m.
Bob Steinbacher, President
 Donations to Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firefighter’s Fund - July 2019

MORGAN STANLEY GIFT FUND FIRE STATION NO. 98 from the Fire Extinguisher Fund

I PITY THE FOOL GARY T. SHELFORD from the Simi Valley Breakfast Klatch

HESCHEL ABRAHAM/JOSHUA HESCHEL DAY TIULA W. NUA from Raden’s Dinner Event
SCHOOL from the Grade K Tzedakah
GARY T. SHELFORD from the Simi Valley Firehouse Cafe
ROHRBACK TRUST Breakfast Group

MICHAEL V. RADEN UNITED WAY, INC.

JANICE E. WAGNER in memory of Don Wagner SCOTT L. AMES from the Antelope Valley Breakfast Club

SCOTT D. MITCHELL from Raden’s Dinner Event MELANIE ALLEN in memory of Glenn Allen

RAYMOND D. RUTTER in memory of Bill Sommers CHRISTINE BANIAN in memory of Gene Gallagher

WILLIAM A. FINN in memory of Thomas C. Tolman NOAM BIRNBAUM from

Laramie Martinez’ employee contribution
ALAN E. HIGGINBOTHAM in memory of Gene Gallagher
JENNIFER BROWN in honor of Frank Brown
JUDITH HOYT
MICHAEL FOWLER in honor of LD Fowler
FIRE STATION NO. 96 from the Fire Extinguisher Fund
DANNY GLADDEN in memory of Gene Gallagher
FIRE STATION NO. 2 from the Fire Extinguisher Fund
CLAIRE JACKSON
GARY T. SHELFORD from the Mimi’s Breakfast Club
MR. AND MRS. JAMES JARRETT in memory of
KIRK P. BINGHAM from the Retired Firefighters’ Breakfast William Martin Horton

FIRE STATION NO. 80 from the Fire Extinguisher Fund KEITH KIRK

DALE M. ROBINSON from Raden’s Dinner Event DR. ALICE OHANESIAN in memory of Gene Gallagher

EDWARD M. BURZINSKI II MARY PLAZONY in memory of Donna Welch

GRACE FELLOWSHIP OF TEHACHAPI in memory of CHRISTIE REIDENBACH in honor of Gene Gallagher

William “Bill” Horton
SHARON ST AMAND-HERSHOW in honor of
RICHARD F. RUSH in memory of “Spud” Brumbaugh Michele Spring’s husband who is an LA City Firefighter

NEIL COLGROVE in memory of Mary Klasse ANGELA TINSLEY in memory of Gene Gallagher

GARY R. MANNAN in memory of Mary Klasse JOSEPH & ELVIRA WILKINSON in memory of
Gene Stepan
PAUL A. GAMEZ in memory of Mary Klasse
JOSEPH & ELVIRA WILKINSON in memory of
FIRE STATION NO. 114 from the Fire Extiguisher Fund Ben Wilkinson

August 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 • August 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
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
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  Peak view. Close to fishing &
(800) 448-0788
Tony Senior LAFD retired
VACATION
RENTALS
AWESOME BIG BEAR- 50
yards from Snow Summitt
chair lifts: 3 bdrm, 2 bath. 4
cable TVs, WiFi, BBQ, Fire-
place, washer/dryer. Includes
linens, sleeps 8. Summer: 2
nite min. $150/ N weekends;
$125/Mon-Thurs. plus $75
cleaning fee. Contact Ron
(626) 833-3437 or email:
espinoza.ron@gmail.com
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
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: MOTORHOMES
Studio/loft, 2 bath, king bed,
FOR RENT
sleeps 4. Full kitchen, TV,
VCR, DVD. Garage parking.
Walk to Canyon Lodge. Ski MOTORHOMES FOR RENT.
back trail. 2 night minimum. Several Class C’s & Class
Winter $100/nite, $125 Fri, Sat A’s for rent. Serving family
& Holidays. Summer $60/nite. and friends for over 15 years.
Plus $120 cleaning & linens. LAFD, LASD, IPD, OXPD, OX-
Jeff & Lisa Moir (661) 254- FIRE, LACO, LACITY, LACITY
5788. SKI CLUB. Visit us at www.
so-calrv.com or call (661)
MAMMOTH SKI & RACQUET: 297-2398 ask for Jeff. Make
Walk to Canyon Lodge. Studio money with your motorhomes
loft sleeps 4. Queen beds, full to offset your payment. We
kitchen, 2 baths, garage park- sub-lease RV’s!
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/ For
DVD, AC’s free WiFi (internet),
complimentary maid service,
complimentary coffee every
advertising
morning and breakfast on
Fridays. Special firefighters’ information,
discount - Best value in West
Maui! Nice pool & BBQ area -
Close to beach! (800) 336-
please
2185 www.napilivillage.com
Don Sprenger - retired LAFD contact:
(949) 929-0989
NASHVILLE CONDO. Two
bedroom condo, sleeps 6, in
Downtown Nashville. Walk- Eric Santiago
ing distance to Broadway St,
hockey and NFL stadium.
Contact Wayne, LAFD @ (323) 259-5231
(805) 796-7863 for availability
and price. or
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE
Romantic Chalet Family email:
getaway. 3 bed/2 bath plus
loft. Sleeps 8–10. Cable TV, eric@lafra.org
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.
August 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.

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Lincoln / Mercury / Honda / Mazda /
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For special pricing contact
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Honda - Sales and Leasing
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Ask for Dave Erickson­­­­­­­­­
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DaveE@hondaofhollywood.com

60 • August 2019
 Fire Station 94

A school visitation. Circa 1960 Fire Station 94- B Shift Circa 1990. Photo by David Blaire

Fire Station 94 4470 Coliseum Street Circa 1978, Date Opened—August 23, 1960. Station Dedication—September 22, 1960. Land Cost—$60,315. Build-
ing Cost—$180,747. Architect—Roland Logan Russell. Contractor—M. S. Jepsen & Sons. Station Sq. Ft.—9,312. Handball Court Sq. Ft.—960

Task Force. 94. 4470 Coliseum Street. Circa 1988. Standing L-R: Captain II Bobby
Brooks, Christopher Arballo, John Durso, Gilbert Ramos, Donald Reyes, Captain I Je-
sus Pasos. Kneeling L-R: Tom Zubek, David Barnes, Donald Farmer, Fernando Jiminez Present Day Crew—Photo by David Blaire

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

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