December 1st, 2012

12pm - 4pm (c shift)

Saturday,

CATCH UP WITH FRIENDS

AND ENJOY DELICIOUS FOOD! NO RSVP NEEDED FREE PARKING
LA Firemens Relief Association
815 Colorado Blvd. - 4th floor Los Angeles CA 90041

contact: jbrandolino@lafra.org 323.259.5215

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2 November 2012

Vol. lXXXIX

NoVEMBER 2012

No. 04

FeatureS
15th AnnuAl lAFD GolF InvItAtIonAl
Firefighters and supporters of the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemens Fund laced up their cleats and hit the fairways at the scenic MountainGate Country Club for the annual LAFD Invitational, presented by Raytheon . . . . 06

contentS
Presidents Message ................................................................................05 Battalion News ..........................................................................................17 Retired Guys .............................................................................................27 Department In Action Major Emergency Brush Fire .................................................................28 The Captains Oral Exam Dale Dickson recalls the hurdles of promotion ........................................33 Mailbox .....................................................................................................34 Retirement Dinner Announcements ..........................................................37 Station Fridge ...........................................................................................38 Venice Beach Handball LAFD 3-Wall Invitational .......................................................................39 Memorials .................................................................................................41 Search & Rescue Mittendorf Discusses More Techniques ................................................43 Grand Opening of New Fire Station 64 .....................................................45 Dollars & Sense ..........................................................................................47 LAFD Golf Club Info for perspective new members .........................................................48 LAFD-HS History The Bel Air Fire .......................................................................................49 Minutes of the Board of Trustees ..............................................................53 Classifieds ................................................................................................57 Tailboard ...................................................................................................61

over the lIne In MeMorIAM

A diverse group of firemen from all over gathered on the sand at Santa Monica Beach to have a little afternoon fun . . . 14 The short life of LAFD Crew 3 Cadet Ryan Kirby is celebrated by members from three fire departments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

lAFD reMeMbers

The community gathered at FHMTC to remember those lost eleven years ago on 9/11. We Shall Never Forget! . . . . . . . . 13

Photo submitted by ryan Babroff, SocalFirePhoto.com

Brush Fire - rustic canyon

on the cover:

28
Los Angeles Firemens Relief Association. No material may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher.
Notice: Production of The Firemens Grapevine magazine is very expensive, and while your dues serve to underwrite a portion of the magazines 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.

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COPYRIGHT 2012

November 2012 3

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FIREMENS GRAPEVINE
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tHE FIREMENS GRAPEVINE (USPS 191-060) is published monthly by the Los Angeles Firemens Relief Association, 815 Colorado blvd. 4th Floor, Los Angeles, California 90041. Annual $24 Subscription included with Association membership; Non-members: $36. Single issues $3 postpaid. Back issues $6 postpaid. Periodicals postage paid at Los Angeles, CA and at additional mailing office. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: tHE FIREMENS 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, 232 or 260. 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 Firemens Relief Association.

4 November 2012

By John Jacobsen work. (Im summarizing for those that did not read it) You can see this would be a cause for alarm for many of our people. These are certainly two of our top notch facilities in the LA area, if not the country. The facts of the matter were slightly different. The City of Los Angeles (civilian plan) had elected to carve these out of the network for their plan. This in no way had anything to do with our LAFRA PPO Medical Plan and its access to the entire Anthem Blue Cross network. Certain plans will take this degradation of service, or reduction in providers in the network (Selected Network) for a cost savings. So, you can see how this may have sparked a few calls of concern. Nonetheless, if ever in doubt, give LAFRA a call. Our relationship with Anthem Blue Cross is merely a lease of doctors and facilities, so when they ask who you are insured by, be sure to remind them that you are covered by The Los Angeles Firemens Relief Association. Medco is now Express Scripts. Im sure you have all been following the information being pushed your way, but it never hurts to have another reminder. Slowly but surely everything that used to say Medco will be replaced with Express Scripts. Please join us at our Open House on December 1st for some camaraderie and the festivities. It is a great time to meet some of the Staff and Trustees that take care of our membership. Respectfully,

he month of November is upon us and the year is just about over. Celebrating Thanksgiving has always been a big day for family and friends and I dont think this year should be any different. Whether you are working in the engine house or getting together at a relatives place, take a look around and give thanks for what you have. Sometimes we miss the obvious when there are other distractions. Our 2012 LAFD Golf Tournament was a great success, most certainly for our organization, but also for just about everyone who made it out to support us. I cant begin to say Thank You enough to all of our volunteers, staff and supporters who devoted both their time and money. I hope everyone enjoyed themselves - because if you didnt have a good time you were doing it wrong. Its a humbling experience to hear people express their gratitude about this organization, even more so when its coming from someone whos been helped. There continues to be a great deal of concern about our healthcare system and the effects of the Affordable Healthcare Act. Most of you would probably agree that the uncertainty of what will or will not happen is very unsettling. We will continue to communicate as efficiently as possible the impact to our plan and our membership. We are on course and in compliance with all the necessary components at this time, but I stress at this time. Depending on the political structure after this election we may need to adjust or regroup for new considerations or legislation. It is certainly going to continue to be an ongoing process, even if the current policy remains in place. One of the routine issues that arises is that a news medium will report or write a story that might highlight a loss of benefits, reduction of service or some other significant concern. The old adage that the devil is in the details couldnt be more true. Recently an article was run in the paper discussing that City of LA employees would no longer be able to access providers at UCLA and Cedars Sinai. It went on to say that they were being dropped from the Anthem Blue Cross net-

John E. Jacobsen (323) 259-5200 President@lafra.org

November 2012 5

By DaviD vienna, Grapevine staff

6 November 2012

photos By LLoyD payne, preciouspixphoto.com, anD rick mccLure, epn

Supporters hit the course to raise money for Widows & Orphans
ticket correlated with a numbered ball, all of which were dropped at the same time from the top of Truck 88s aerial. The lucky winners were: Guy Miller ($2,500); David N. Smith (HDTV); and Michael Hayes (Apple iPad). Kicking off a domino effect of generosity, Smith donated the HDTV to the live auction where representatives from Bradawn offered the winning bid and then immediately donated it to Fire Station 64. So in the end, all of the prizes went to firefighters. Hayes decided to participate after seeing how the Relief Association helped the family of fallen firefighter Glen Allen. Of the fundraising Golf Ball Drop, he said, I think its a good donation opportunity and I will definitely buy another ball next year. The stunning weather and beautiful location made for perfect golfing conditions for the full-round scramble tournament. Firefighters, along with representatives from sponsor companies and their guests made their way through 18 holes. Though awards (and bragging rights) were at stake, everyone enjoyed the camaraderie. In the end, however, a few teams and individuals did walk away with those awards Taking 1st place with a score of 54 was the team comprised of David Elliot, Walt Frome, Will Tipton and Robert Steinbacher. Coming in 2nd with a score of 57 was the team of David Thomas, Allen Black and Jim Meacham. Winning 3rd in a scorecard playoff and a score of 59 were teammates Kevin Wright, Dale Gant, Terry Manning, Gary Gatena. And 4th place, also with a score of 59, were Joe Edwards, Darren Ashby, John Jacobsen, Joe Castro.

olf enthusiasts laced up their cleats and hit the fairways at the scenic MountainGate Country Club for the annual LAFD Invitational, presented by Raytheon. In addition to an exciting day on the greens, the event featured an awards dinner, as well as a silent and live auctionall to help raise money for the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemens Fund.

Event Coordinator Juliet Brandolino said, It cant be understated, the significance of the role Raytheon plays as our Presenting Sponsor. We truly appreciate their level of commitment to the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemens Fund. They also really get into the spirit of the day and their enthusiasm is contagious. Kicking off the day was the Golf Ball Drop. Tickets sold by a team of dedicated volunteers offered participants a chance to win either $2,500 cash, an HDTV (courtesy of Symons Capital Management) or an iPad. Each

November 2012 7

But, players didnt need to be on a winning team to land an honor. Thanks to individual contests throughout the course, each player had a chance to shine. Those winners were: Steve Robinson (Putting Contest); Julie Sherman (Womens Long Drive); Brian Morris (Mens Long Drive); Joe Castro (Closest to the Pin, 3 8); Joe Edwards, Darren Ashby, Joe Castro, John Jacobsen (Hustle Hole); Denny Coville (Worst Shot); and Barry Hedberg (Guess Your Drive). Of course, before the victors were named, attendees had the chance to bid on exciting items in the silent auction. People quickly vied for everything from travel packages to DVD sets to wine selections. Then the honors were handed out as people enjoyed an incredible surf-and-turf meal during the awards dinner, sponsored by the Ben B. & Joe E. Eisenberg Foundation. With bellies full and spirits high, the live auction kicked off with Capt. Steve Ruda

acting as the auctioneer. The auction included quite a few incredible items, such as a keyboard autographed by former Doobie Brother Michael McDonald and a fire helmet autographed by members of the Los Angeles Dodgers. My favorite part of the auction was when Dawna Gray, CEO of Bradawn Insurance Services, got into a bidding war with station 64, Brandolino said. The end result was her gracious donation of the HDTV to their station. That moment, when the guys from 64s realized what Dawna was doing, will stay with me for a long, long time. The whole day was a smashing success, raising thousands of dollars for Widows & Orphans, which assists firefighters and their families in times of need. The event would not have happened if not for the generosity of sponsors such as Lewis, Marenstein, Wicke, Sherwin & Lee, LLP; HealthSCOPE Benefits; Titan Advisors; and Bradawn Insurance Services.

1st Place (54) David Elliot, Walt Frome, Will Tipton, Robert Steinbacher 2nd Place (57) David Thomas, Allen Black, Jim Meacham 3rd Place (59, scorecard Playoff) Kevin Wright, Dale Gant, Terry Manning, Gary Gatena 4th Place (59, scorecard Playoff) Joe Edwards, Darren Ashby, John Jacobsen, Joe Castro

8 November 2012

Brandolino said, We are extremely grateful to the Eisenberg Foundation for being our fabulous Awards Dinner Sponsor. Like Bradawn Insurance Services, Raytheon and all of our other wonderful sponsors, they make it a family affair by having generations of folks show up to play. We love the concept of families helping families. Under the direction of Brandolino, the Relief staff and volunteers made the whole event flow seamlessly from tee off to dessert. But theres no time to relax. Work has already begun on next years LAFD Invitational, which should prove to be another excellent day on the fairway, all in the name of charity. Dont participate if you are looking for a routine day of golf, said Brandolino. Participation means you are going to laugh a lot throughout the day. Youll experience a true sense of camaraderie, enjoy delicious cuisine and a beautiful atmosphere. Participation means you are making a difference in the lives of the families of heroes who need assistance.

2012 Golf contest Winners Putting contest: Steve Robinson Womens long drive: Julie Sherman Mens long drive: Brian Morris closest to the Pin: Joe Castro (3 8) hustle hole: Joe Edwards, Darren Ashby, Joe Castro, John Jacobsen Worst shot: Denny Coville Guess your drive: Barry Hedberg

November 2012 9

10 November 2012

additional donors additional & suPPorters donors & suPPorters Angels Baseball Anheuser-Busch, Inc. Aquarium of the Bay Barnyard Sign & Decals Beverly Stanton Bill & Lisa Gillis Border Grill Bradford Renaissance California Pizza Kitchen Charles Simpson Chris McMillan Salon Concord Music Group Dancing with the Stars David Lowe David Vienna Dukes Malibu El Coyote Restaurant Famous Daves Fire Station 109 Five Star Casino Rentals Geffen Playhouse Good Neighbor Restaurant Hammerhead Golf Harrahs Rincon Hill Billy USA Hornblower Cruises & Events Hotel Shangri-La Santa Monica Hugos Restaurant In-N-Out Jay Lenos Big Dog Garage Jerry & Mary Fido Jessica Chavy Joe & Adela Angiuli Joe & Juliet Brandolino John & Loana Boyd Katherine Dexter Kittredge Sports Lisa Gillis Lloyd Payne Los Angeles County Museum of Art Los Angeles Fire Station 112 Los Angeles Philharmonic Luxe Hotel Sunset Boulevard Maureen Taylor Medieval Times Melissa Stewardson Photography Melting Pot Food Tours Menchies Yogurt Inc. Mine O Mine, Inc. Mission Hills Country Club Monster Energy Drinks NBC Universal Nayanika Barker Newport Landing Whale Watching Norma Margot Olivas Links Omni Hotel Panda Express / Panda Cares Pechanga Resort & Casino Petersen Automotive Museum Pinz Bowling Center Robert & Suzanne Davidow Robert Steinbacher Rose City Ballroom, Having A Ball Rowley Portraiture San Francisco Fire Department Sanrio Six Flags Magic Mountain Sony Pictures Studio Southwest Airlines St. Regis Resort, Monarch Beach Surf Lessons With Katie Target Taylor Made Golf Company, Inc The Balboa Bay Club & Resort The Comedy & Magic Club The Grammy Museum The Natural Face Place Timothy Larson Tokidoki Trump National Golf Club UCLA Athletics USC Athletics Valerie Lawrence Vista Ford Woodland Hills W Los Angeles Westwood Walmart Western Bagel William Siemantel

November 2012 11

12 November 2012

n many ways, it is hard to believe that eleven years have passed since our nation was savagely attacked on September 11, 2001. While time moves forward, it no way lessens the resolve of firefighters who now as then loudly pledge: We Shall Never Forget! The men and women of the Los Angeles Fire Department warmly welcomed all to stand with them in fulfilling this pledge, as they gathered for a trio of Patriot Day public events on Tuesday, September 11, 2012, at

three separate locations: the LAFD Museum and Fallen Firefighter Memorial, the Frank Hotchkin Memorial Training Center, and the 9/11 Memorial Fountain at Fire Station 88. We hope that for those who could not attend the ceremonies that there was time for quiet personal reflection or community service in remembrance of all who were killed in New York, Pennsylvania and Northern Virginia on 9/11.

November 2012 13

By Jim stiGLich, ff, fs 100-c photos By preciouspixphoto.com

ore than ever we need to gather in the name of fun and camaraderie . . . outside of the work environment. Our days and nights at the firehouse are full of subtle stresses that take a toll on our well being. In the good ol days many of these stresses were tempered with good natured in-house games and horseplay which, when taken in context, were very effective safety valves. Unfortunately poor judgment, excessive one-upsmanship, thin skin, kinder-gentler fire service culture, CTS, etc. have virtually eliminated any chance of breaking the tension outside of some managerial mantra. So, in the firehouse, we all have to endure the oil everyone when one wheel squeaks syndrome. One venue for venting with only few rules and a lot of latitude is a day of fun and friendly competition on the sand in a few rounds of over-the-line softball. You get to pick your team of three to five players, whoever they are, wherever they work. You get to name them whatever you want and wear whatever uniform (creative originality is encouraged) you want. You are guaranteed a couple of games and an

equal chance to compete for the coveted title of champion - complete with bragging rights and special winners prize. The playing field is guaranteed level . . . as level as beach sand can be. The same rules apply to everyone. The only offensive skill required is the ability to hit a softly pitched softball, with a wood bat, over one line and between two others. The only defensive skill required is the ability to move a few steps side to side or back and forth, and catch, with your bare hands, a not-so-softly hit, not-so-soft ball. The only social skill required is the ability to accept that there will always be greater and lesser players than yourself, and knowing it matters not whether you win or lose but how you play the game . . . sort of. On Wednesday, Sept 12, which many of us remember as the day our friend and mentor Lane Kemper left us in 2006, a diverse group of firemen from all over gathered on the sand at Santa Monica Beach to have a little fun in the form of an over-the-line tournament. The only formalities were signing up your team for scheduling purposes and honoring Ol Glory and that for which it stands. Keep your own

14 November 2012

scores. Umpire your own games. Pick up after yourselves. Funny how well that works when everyone pulls their own weight. The day started out warm and overcast but turned beautiful and sunny by midmorning. The fields were precisely paced off. Match-ups were made with no particular prejudice. The first game was for fun and familiarization with the odd rules of engagement. A few cobwebs were knocked loose in the practice games. Then it was on to double elimination. Teams were intensely focused and fiercely engaged during the competition . . . except for the occasional distraction from the bike path. Refreshments and sandwiches were enjoyed between games. T-shirts were sold and fun was had by all. 14 teams assembled ready to show their mettle. The competition was tough espe-

cially considering the average age of the players. A team from Corona and a few guest players from Ventura Co. joined in the fun. Play was over by mid afternoon and the winning team was Keith Bandy, Russ Barnes and Joe Cunningham. Second place went to Ray Hamel, Sean Millet, Mike Tag and Chris V. Third place to Louie Garcia, Bobby Hays, Clark Hills and Chris Lewis. No significant injuries reported. No flagrant cheating, although there was some question as to how over-the-line should be defined. Thanks to Paul Davis @ Santa Monica Beach maintenance for prepping the sand. Thanks to Subway and Nayanika Barker for the great food. Thanks to Valerie Lawrence, Mike Deaken and Myrna Gonzalez (sister) for picking up the sandwiches. Thanks to Ray Hamel for picking up the ice. Thanks to Rebecca Stevens for logistical support. Thanks to the convergent volunteers that helped set up and take down the equipment. And let us thank Bill Bringas, doing more than his share, to raise morale and camaraderie through fun extra-curricular activities. The event successfully provided a venue for us to mingle, vent a little steam and raise a few bucks for the Widows Orphans and Disabled Firemens Fund - to the tune of $1800. Thanks to all the players that showed up to support the event. Hope to see you and a few more next year.

November 2012 15

16 November 2012

Los Angeles Firemens Relief Association Medical Plan may cover this examination. Contact your plan provider to verify.

the views expressed by the battalion News writers do Not necessarily reflect those of the Firemens Relief Association in need, the logical thing would be to utilize the companies assigned to the Coliseum IC. With the massive brainstorming going on at Hill and Jefferson, the alternative method is chosen, which is to deplete the resources of the surrounding districts. For all the companies involved, we all can agree on one thing, MASSIVE CHAOS!! The recent red flag warnings and Carmageddon II have given some members the opportunity for SOD. 400 series engines are being staffed and pre-deployed to cover stand-by in the areas with greatest danger and potential. Another logistical issue has risen, seems as if the 400 series engines south of the 10 freeway have fallen off the map. The members at these stations, lets just say 14s, 17s, and 38s, wait by the teletype for the following days list of pre-deployed companies only to find that once again they have been left out. The only phone calls 14s, 17s, and 38s receive are to notify them that another station will be utilizing the apparatus to avoid a change-over. Now if I understand clearly, the correct term for the 400s is READY RESERVE!! These stations have been repeatedly told the apparatus shall remain in quarters, not even to be used for a Saturday morning driving rodeo in the district. Every time this issue comes up, they get the broken record statement, I will look into that for you. Now that eight stations make up the 1st battalion, I know there are plenty of stories out there just waiting to be published. The truth needs to be told, so dont let that great story slip by the cracks. Be safe out there, and continue to take care of one another. big1writer@gmail.com

All the dust has settled with the closures, the pools are vacating, SOD has returned, and so has the Battalion 1 writer. Over the past few months, the city has been going above and beyond to clean up the streets of Skid Row. That consists of breaking up the encampments. and disposing of trash, needles, and bodily wastes - only to find the locals reclaiming stake at that fine area of sidewalk that same afternoon. Station 9 still remains the same - RA809 running an average of 25 calls a shift, 6 of them after midnight, sometimes 9. To all the crew at 9s, keep up the hard work and good attitudes. Hopefully some relief is on its way. Its always good to see the great fan base the city has for its beloved USC Trojan football team. Now when its game day at the coliseum, the LAFD goes big by moving up engine companies, RAs, 800s, cycle teams, and not to mention an ample amount of chiefs and EMS captains. With this large command staff, it takes not only one dispatch channel, but two. When a call comes out for a person

world war ii veteran tokuJi yoSHiHaSHi StandS Between Fire Station 3 capt. ted kalnaS and FireFigHter daniel roMan, wHo inStalled SpikeS go For Broke MonuMent in little tokyo. pHoto By ricHard guZMan
to Scare oFF BirdS tHat were deSecrating tHe

a driver-leSS MonteBello city BuS rolled oFF tHe 5tH Street overpaSS on SepteMBer 14, 2012. tHere were no inJurieS. pHoto By yvonne griFFin, epn

November 2012 17

Greetings and Happy Thanksgiving from the sinners and the saints of the Second Battalion. Unless you count the political arena there will be no comings or goings this month. And with Christmas right around the corner, all of you have been nice. But, I did learn some stuff. Everybody is going to have the pleasure of mandated EEO training. That stands for Equal Employment Opportunity. Its what we used to refer to as harassment training, and as I suspected, after all of these years of training, we havent learned much. I know this because the 20 minute video showing different scenarios would have an insensitive schmo like me as the root cause of someone elses problem, or at the very least somewhere in view. One cant help but notice how the solution for the perceived oppression was to always use the complaint system that would ensure that the bureaucracy producing and mandating the training would continue to grow and thrive. No type of communication skills or empowerment needed. Thank goodness we have the anonymous Complaint Tracking System and the Professional Services Division to right every wrong. Being taught how to solve problems by ourselves is just crazy talk. Which segues into something else I learned - There will be a sign in sheet when you attend. Take a picture of it so you and your crew wont have to take the training again the following month. Turns out entering your compliance into the computer will not be sufficient, and even with our depleted resources, your chief will have you go out of service and a move up company leave their district so all of you may attend . . . again. Computer records, your word and the word of your crew will not suffice. But a picture of the signed attendance sheet . . . Apparently these records go to attendance sheet purgatory after class, never to be seen again. This brings me to the question and answer part of the training. There was an audible lament from the man wearing the gold badge about the chasm that has formed between them and us. A bridge that would go a long way to closing that gap would be to display trust when the opportunity arises. I worry about what happened to make someone embrace the policy If I didnt see you take the training I cant be sure . . . and its mandatory, or why a chief would cancel helicopters that were ordered by an onscene fire inspector for a reported tree fire until he could make that determination of need for himself . . .

giving the brush fire more of a head start than it would have had. Or allowing the Captain II hired as your EIT on a high hazard day to be acting chief and then parking the sedan at the structure fire with his door next to a palm tree so he cant get out. Okay, the last ones just funny and the actors yoga skills came to the rescue, but my point remains. Its okay to give trust, thats

how you get it. And my spider senses tell me these guys got burned at some time trusting us, so we gotta do our part too. Thats the story I heard anyway. The weakest link Send your version of the truth to: battalion7news@yahoo.com
adMitting you Screwed up and Buying B&r keepS your Story out oF tHe grapevine, JuSt So ya know.

truck one on SHuttle patrol

ligHt Force one

tecHnique aFter quick patient extrication.

SHowS textBook

c-Spine

FF/pM cHriS wan

on tHe truck and SHow uS How itS done.

getS a cHance to ride

18 November 2012

The orbiter is named after the British HMS Endeavour, the ship which took Captain James Cook on his first voyage of All of the airport companies made their way out onto the field to welcome the Endeavour to Los Angeles. It was delivered to LAX on September 21 2012 and will soon be moved along the streets of Los Angeles to its final destination at the California Science Center Endeavour was the fifth and final spaceworthy NASA space shuttle to be built, constructed as a replacement for Challenger, which was destroyed 73 seconds after its launch on January 28, 1986. Endeavour first flew in May 1992 and its last mission was in May 2011.

discovery (17681771). This is why the name is spelled in the British English manner, rather than the American English (Endeavor).

pHoto By adaM vangerpen, editor, tHe loS angeleS FireFigHter

pHoto By don naSH, engineer, FS 51-c

pHoto By adaM vangerpen, editor, tHe loS angeleS FireFigHter

November 2012 19

a patient
in

Had to Be airliFted oFF tHe

danteS view

Hiking trail

FroM tHe crowd gatHered to watcH tHe Space SHuttle Flyover

griFFitH park.

pHotoS By JeFF ZiMMerMan, epn and SaMantHa guZMan

on SepteMBer 18, 2012, Battalion 5

police oFFicerS wHo were inJured wHen tHeir cruiSer veered oFF oF

loS angeleS w/B loS FeliZ Blvd. onto riverSide drive and Struck a ligHt Standard.
coMpanieS aSSiSted two

pHoto By rick Mcclure, epn

20 November 2012

pHoto By rick Mcclure, epn

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November 2012 21

Sheron and Michael Finger (FF/ PM, FS 88-A) recently celebrated the birth of their 3rd child. After two boys they were surprised to have a girl, Kaitlyn Ashley, born on September 12, 2012 at 3:43 a.m., weighing 8 pounds 14 ounces and 21 inches long. If you see a car with personalized plates that say 5FINGRS out in the Santa Clarita Valley, youll know exactly who it is.

carMageddon ii

What if they closed the worlds busiest freeway and everyone stayed home? Yawn! Youd have Carmageddon II, the sequel. But we were ready 200 extra firefighters on trucks, engines, ambulances, brush patrols, water tanks, helicopters and motorcycles; dozens of gold badges having dozens of important meetings (every hour) at the EOC; along with scores of LAPD, Emergency Management Department, Department of Transportation, Cali-

fornia Highway Patrol, Metro and Caltrans all standing by just in case . . . Thanks to logistical wizard Tom Henzgen of FS 88, camps were set up at Fire Stations 99 and 109 to keep everyone comfortable for the 48 hour deployment. 99s fired up the barbeque, 109s served up a pancake breakfast, and MountainGate and BelAir Crest hosted companies within their communities. It was so much fun we should do it every summer.
caMaraderie too!

coMpanieS FroM Battalion 10 Handle a acre Fire 101/405 Fwy intercHange on SepteMBer 20, 2012. pHoto By rick Mcclure, epn

at tHe

22 November 2012

Terrance West has been a fixture at Fire Station 26 since way back when the truck used to sleep all night. The red, blue and green on the calendar dont mean much to him, hes happy to hang around no matter which shift is on duty. But every good thing must come to an end and Terrance felt like he needed to move on.

So with much pomp and fanfare, the guys at 26s decided to throw Terrance a retirement dinner. The date was set, the invitations went out and the menu was planned. On the big day, Terrances family, friends and

co-workers gathered at the firehouse for the event. There was plenty to eat, many stories were told and even a few awards were handed out, making for an unforgettable night. Farewell Terrance!

pHotoS By yvonne griFFin, epn

HanSen daM recreational area 98S and 24S, aS well aS laco and anF, on SepteMBer 15, 2012.
BruSH Fire at tHe BrougHt out

pHotoS By doc deMulle, tHe FootHillS paper

November 2012 23

Greetings from the Battalion that never sleeps! After such a hot summer, its nice to finally work into a bit of milder weather . . . no . . . cooler weather . . . no . . . OK its still been really hot! I guess one of the good things about this continual heat is that it brought a ton of players out for the 7th Annual Firemans 4-Man Volleyball tourney in Hermosa Beach. Congrats to the Batt 13 members who did very well and made it to the finals. Unfortunately they were edged out by a slightly less than honest Burbank team. Next year fellas.

Also, Congrats to everybody for completing the mandatory EEOC training. For those of you who havent figured it out, EEOC took priority over some less important training such as the 5-Gas Meter/Haz-Mat refresher. Thats why EEOC was placed in the morning and everybody could be NAV, and Haz-Mat took up the Dinnertime slot. Makes perfect sense because EEOC will save your life from CO, Methane, etc. and Haz-Mat is more of just a common sense thing right??? Too bad there isnt an EEOC meter! Maybe we could invest some Haz-Mat/JRIC grant money into that meter! Finally, nice work to whomever captured a photo of the Elusive A/O with Nozzle. This was taken after a recent fire, and word is that shortly thereafter, he had to go home for the P.M. due to a severe H2O rash.. OK, now lets get into the real stories. I figured I would start with 65s and maybe by next months issue they would be out of the rotation . . . but probably not. If youve been to FS 65 lately Im sure that you noticed something just a little bit different. There seems to be an aura emanating from

the front office area - and its very STRONG! It seems to be filled with POWER! With a little creativity and a splash of know-how, they were able to re-arrange the non-modular, pre-installed desk unit. The area went from the welcoming, pleasant Come on in, my door is always open, to more of a (cue booming voice)Im in charge here and Im not taking any attitude from anybody! Now get in here and sit DOWN!! type of space. All this desk needs is a little finish work and it will finally exude COMPLETE CONTROL and POWER!!! Kind of like when a normal truck gets a Monster Truck Makeover with a full body AND suspension lift and some knobby 44 tires! Oh yeah, whos the little guy now!!!! Just sayin . . . Speaking of desks . . . Over at 57s, if youre ever moved up and want to write a note for the crew there and are looking for a Post-it note, dont even bother! Apparently they have been banned from the premises . . . well at least by one captain. One day the on-coming captain comes in for relief and notices that something just isnt right about the set-up of his work zone. After a few minutes of scanning side-to-side, he finally hones in on the culprit. A pesky, overgrown set of Post-it notes being held tight in a plastic Post-it note holder! Evidently these 2-1/2 x 2-1/2 square papers are just too darn big and really mess up the feng shui of the whole office area! Well this is just unacceptable, and he takes the whole batch and rifles them into the off-going captains drawer. This happens a few days in a row, and when asked about why they keep ending up off the desk, the answer given was, I dont like them and nobody asked me. Now if you think this temper tantrum was bad, you shouldve seen when he walked into his dorm and there was a nice new night-stand next to his bed and a lamp sitting on top of it. Im told that he looked like the cartoon with his face getting red and steam blowing out of his ears! Papa Bear doesnt like to come home and see that someone has sat in his chair and laid in his bed! So much for making this place where we spend a lot of our lives feel a little bit like home. Maybe he wants to turn his office around too! Hopefully 65s can help him out to maximize the AUTHORITY. Just what I heard . . . Now Im all for following directions, but this next one took it to the next level! Recently during face piece fit testing, a SOD member was working in the field. This is a perfect opportunity for him to get the testing done while at work, without him having to search for a day to get it finished. Before you do the actual test, theres a quick questionnaire to fill out. It entails a few health questions and can all be done on-line and once completed, can be saved and sent to your personal e-mail to be put in your file. Now this officer having been out of the field for a few months, read

through the directions and 1/3rd of the way through the page came to the sentence that said, please print. This is where the confusion sets in. Does that mean to print with his penmanship or does that mean to print the page on the printer and then fill it out. Oh the dilemma. Not wanting to ask anybody, and not having read most of the other instructions that said to fill it in on-line, he opted to both print the page AND print with his writing style. After all his hard work, when he finally took it over to the members doing the fit test and handed in his gem, they then handed it directly to the trash can. So much for following part of the directions. Finally, a question for some common sense training. Scenario: Youve been in the Battalion for about seven years and decide to transfer out to a place more suited to where you need to be. On your last day, you are left as the extra person, in order to cook your last meal, after the closures and details for EMT. Now do you: 1) cook lunch and dinner and give the guys a speech, thanking them for all their hard work in order to get certified and doing whatever it took for them to bend to your routine - staying up all hours of the night to do whatever. You know, the typical speech even if its said as a canned speech at least its a speech or 2) cook dinner only and dont give any type of speech. If you chose #2 then you chose what one member did and unfortunately that is the incorrect answer for the common sense training. For a guy to preach about pride and tradition and all the related nouns, and be such a high-level expectations type of guy, this really isnt practicing what you preach. Im told, that when his previous Captain II left without giving a speech, this same member was heard doling out the weaks like they were going out of style. Oh well, Im not sure if that saying about living in glass houses fits, but if it does, we might need to call General Services for a station full of windows. . . On a serious note, Id like to give my condolences to Terry aka T or T-Bone on the death of his Mother. We were all sorry to hear about his loss and wish him our thoughts and prayers. Also, FYI, dont forget about the upcoming and long lost Mayo Classic which is scheduled for November 7th at Old Mans down in San Onofre. It took a brief hiatus but is on its way back! You should start seeing ads and sign-up sheets for it soon. Well thats all Ive got for this month and stay safe out there . . . and remember - 2+2 makes sense, play nice, know your audience, get a cool nickname, figure out which formula to use before the media gets a hold of it, you get out what you put in, and FI-1. Take care of each other! Keep sending your stories to: wattsfire@gmail.com

24 November 2012

engine 87 along witH coMpanieS FroM Fire StationS 7and 98 Handle an a arSon Fire on tHe weStBound 118 Freeway on SepteMBer 12, 2012. pHotoS By doc deMulle, tHe FootHillS paper

a 25 year old Male in critical condition waS extricated By Battalion 17 coMpanieS FroM tHe wreckage wHen HiS car Hit a power pole on winnetka ave on octoBer 6, 2012. pHoto By Juan guerra, epn Juanguerra.SMugMug.coM

November 2012 25

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26 November 2012

llen Bart is a retired engineer from FS 109s. He and Chuck Bucher, whos currently still workin and also assigned to 109s, decided to climb Mt. McKinley. In case you didnt know, Mt. McKinley is one of the most beautiful mountains in the world and has an elevation of 20,320 feet. It lies deep in the heart of the Alaskan Mountain Range on the Kahiltna Glacier. The climbin route consisted of a base camp plus five higher camps. Due to Mt. McKinleys close proximity to the Arctic Circle, it is a mountain of extreme conditions where a climber may encounter 100 mph winds and -40 degree temperatures. In June of 2011, Allen and Chuck, along with a 4 member rope team, began their assent up the mountain. After 10 days on the mountain they learned that a rope team higher up on the mountain had fallen, killin two climbers and leavin two critically injured. One of the fatalities was a guide who was a very good friend of the guide leadin Allen and Chucks rope team. Because of the sensitive situation the expedition was aborted.

Still wantin to make this climb, Allen and Chuck put in another full year of trainin. Returnin to Mt. McKinley in May of 2012, they were able to complete a successful climb. Allen and Chuck each carried 60 lb. packs and pulled 40 lb. sleds at high altitude. Their journey on the mountain took a total of 19 days. The most northerly mountain in the world allowed them to take full advantage of 22 hours of sunlight. On the last day of their push to reach the summit, 15 hours were used to reach the peak and descend back to high camp. For Allen and Chuck, who overcame many challenges to make this climb, they were rewarded with an unforgettable once-in-alifetime experience. Congratulations to both of you.

COWBOY HUMOR Durin a recent password audit by a company, it was found that an employee was usin the followin password: MickeyMinniePlutoHueyLouieDeweyDonaldGoofySacramento When asked why she had such a long password, she rolled her eyes and said, Hello, it has to be at least 8 characters long and include at least one capital. KEEP SMILIN AC choppedup@att.net

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November 2012 27

roLLover
North hollywood
Photos by Mike Meadows, EPN

Four

kidS and tHeir MoM went to tHe HoSpital in

tHiS Single car rollover on tHe nortHBound Freeway at

roScoe Blvd.

170

28 November 2012

auto FIre
Sylmar
Photos by Rick McClure, EPN

on SepteMBer 21, 2012, ligHt Force 75 and engine 91 reSponded to a well involved auto Fire on tHe nortHBound 5 Freeway at roxFord Street.

November 2012 29

Major eMerGency BruSh FIre

Sepulveda Bl x Getty CeNter dr Bel air / BreNtwood
Info by Erik Scott, PSO Photos by Mike Meadows, EPN and Rick McClure, EPN
30 November 2012

on SepteMBer 14, 2012 at 3:36 pM, a Fire Broke out along Sepulveda Boulevard near getty center drive, JuSt eaSt oF tHe 405 Freeway. FirSt arriving FireFigHterS reported two acreS Burning in Heavy BruSH. weatHer conditionS included extreMe Heat and low relative HuMidity. tHe BruSH Burning index waS HigH at a reading oF 104. tHe lack oF Strong wind waS tHe only Help MotHer nature provided FireFigHterS. an aggreSSive attack witH HoSe-lineS and aerial water dropS enSued aS FlaMeS continued to Spread eaStward to over 10 acreS. FireFigHterS were Strategically placed to protect tHreatened reSidenceS. additional air Support waS needed aS well aS aSSiStance FroM neigHBoring departMentS. loS angeleS county Fd HelicopterS, Hand crewS, and Fixed winged Super ScooperS were deployed to Help Battle tHe BlaZe. in addition, Beverly HillS, culver city, and Santa Monica Fire departMentS aSSiSted tHe laFd. at tHe peak oF tHe Fire tHere were over tHree Hundred FireFigHterS FroM Five agencieS FigHting tHe BlaZe. even witH all tHiS Manpower and equipMent tHe FlaMeS quickly ScorcHed 70 acreS.

November 2012 31

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32 November 2012

(Or How to Fail in Four Easy Steps) (Or, the Next Exam is Only Two Years Away)

His conversation does not show the minute-hand, but he strikes the hour very correctly. Kearsley

y first attempt at being promoted to Fire Captain was quite an experience. It was an exciting and trying time, and those who have attempted to leap the hurdles of promotion can perhaps relate to my oral interview. I can find humor in just about anything, thanks to my experience with so many of the icons of fire department wit, and now I find I am trying to pass on one of the more humorous times in my 26 year career. I was serious about promoting, so I spent long hours poring over the department manuals, learning everything I needed to know. All the long hours proved fruitful, and I passed the written exam. Never being one to rest on accomplishments, I immediately began to prepare for the oral examination. I had experience in many areas of the city, but I visited officers at the airport, the harbor, the fire prevention bureau, and other places, talking to them, learning all I could, especially what an officer should be expected to know. Some of my fellow firefighters and I conducted practice oral exams, asking questions which tasked our knowledge of all aspects of the command system. The day of my oral exam finally came. After a sleepless night I drove from my home to fire department headquarters, nervous as a new bridegroom, allowing enough time for traffic and finding a parking spot. I heeded all the advice I had been given concerning orals. My new dress uniform was pressed in razor-sharp creases. My hair was neatly trimmed, and my shoes outshined any diamond in the finest jewelry store. I was told to carry my hat, so my hair wouldnt be mussed. When I was called into the interview room I would be introduced to the three chief officers on the oral board. If I couldnt remember their names while under fire during the interview, I was advised to just call them Sir. I took a deep, calming breath, wiped my sweating palms on my trousers before entering the room. I shook hands with the officers, trying to remember their names. I was directed to sit across the table from them. Successful candidates had told me to put my hat on the table in front of me and fold my hands on the table. Bing! First mistake: I held my hat in my lap. (Gee, I couldnt remember everything, could I? My mind was on my opening statement) As I was answering the questions asked of me I was giving a good imitation of Porky Pig, stammering through my answers. My hands were trembling and I dropped my hat on the floor under the table. I couldnt just leave it there. Bing! Second mistake: I reached down to pick it up and raising my head, I hit the underside of the table. Was that a suppressed smile I detected on the faces of the chiefs? Or gas pains? My hat was now on the table, but my hands were not. Unconsciously, my hands were in my lap, toying and tugging with the end of my clip-on tie. I tugged a little too hard and the tie pulled out of my collar and flopped down, held in place by the tie clip halfway down my shirt. Instead of leaving everything alone and stumbling through the remainder of my interview, I grabbed the knotted part of the tie and tried to put it back in place. I kept hitting my collar area repeatedly with the knotted tie, but the clip wouldnt catch. Bing! That was my third mistake. To top it off, in one of my fruitless attempts to re-attach my tie, I knocked the collar stays loose. Like a striking rattler, the spring-loaded, needle-

pointed stay sprung up and struck my neck with a vengeance. Ouch! My hand shot up to my neck and came back with bloody fingers. The sharp point of the stay had punctured my neck, drawing blood. Figuring that the interview was probably blown, I tried to salvage some sort of dignity by just holding my fingers over the wound, stemming any flow of blood. I stumbled through another round of questions, and then I was through. Was I ever relieved! I imagine the chief officers were even more relieved than I. Rising from the chair, I shook hands with each of the officers, thanking them for their time. Their expressions were totally blank. I turned to leave the room, walked to the door, and opened it. Bing! My fourth mistake. It was a closet! I closed the door, turned, grinned, and said, closet, as if I knew it was there all the time. I beat a hasty exit through the proper door, ignoring some of my friends waiting for their interviews. I could hear raucous laughter coming from the interview room. Well, for some unknown reason, I didnt score high enough on my oral interview to gain a promotion to Fire Captain on that examination. But with the help of the personal knowledge I gained from that experience, I did get promoted on the next go round. I had a lot of fun, and elicited a lot of laughter relating my experience in the four-step-plan-to-oral-exam-failure to my fellow firefighters. I hope some of them gained some insight from it and used it to their advantage on their captains orals.

November 2012 33

LAFRA Medical Plan Testimonial I wake up... my best guess is Im in a bed in Ventura County General Hospital. I remember the Helitac guy telling this to my wife as they slid me and the Stokes into their pretty yellow helicopter. I wanted to help out, but I was all strapped in and busy going into shock. Its time to take inventory. Everything hurts. I start small. Eyelids. They work. I see the big bottle thats hooked up to the tube going down my throat. Its not a big surprise, I heard the left chest wall get broken. Sounded like someone stomping on a wicker basket. The IV is in my right arm and the morphine doesnt do much for the pain, it just makes me not care about it. My curious eyes are captured by my wifes. The smile on her face holds the tears on her cheeks up to the fluorescent light. Damn shes beautiful. She doesnt have to say anything, her eyes tell the whole story. I know Im effed up. A smart looking guy in a white coat draped with a stethoscope has got some good news and some bad. Turns out Im part of the 2% to survive a crushing accident of this severity. Good, they can call the fire station and tell them to cancel the funeral detail. The bad news is my career as a fireman is over. I didnt feel my pelvis break, but it did, in three places. If youre going to do a job, do it right. The bones of the pubic symphisis are fractured and will not heal well enough to support my weight... ever. If Im lucky, the standard of care, anchors set in my bones for cables to suspend me over my bed for a few months, will yield a partial union. If Im lucky. That means Ill be able to go through life at the age of 36 with a cane. No union wheelchair for the rest of my days. But there is still hope. Hes heard of Dr. Joel Madda. Dr. Madda does pioneering surgery. He checks out my situation and offers a solution. He wants to take everything on the inside of my body and move it outside. This way he can get a firm grip on the bothersome bones and use some steel plate and screws hell pick up at Home Depot to hold everything together while it heals. This has never been done before, and some (most?) of his colleagues believe when the organs are returned something will strangulate and I will die on the operating table. Dr. Joel thinks everything will return to its natural position and Ill live. Will I walk again? I ask. Youll be a fireman again. he says with confidence. Get my life back, or die on the operating table. Im in. Now unless youre upper management youve done the math and know I live. Theres a reason for me to tell my story. The Relief

Send your letters & comments to the editor at: editor@lafra.org

Association Medical Plan happily ponied up the $ to give me a chance to get my life back. The standard of care at the time was the bone anchor/cable/cane if youre lucky thing. The board... people who know you, have the authority to make decisions like this, and thanks to them this is the new standard of care. Plans run by managers will feel bad for you and maybe spring for a really nice cane. And lets face it, if nothing ever happens you dont even need insurance. Ive told my story many times over the years when young guys talk about insurance. I tell them to get Relief, pay the premiums and say a prayer of thanks every day that you dont have to find out how good it is. On that note... I did have a brief meeting with God when I accepted my death. But thats another story. Dave Braun Engineer, FS 1-B LAFRA: Enclosed is the proceeds of an insurance policy my parents bought when I was 8 years old, and which was recently received from the California State Unclaimed Properties account! Since I didnt know I had it and my parents benefited from equipment loaned through the Fund, it is fitting that this money go for others to benefit too. Sincerely, Ralph Whitney, retired Carpenteria, CA Dear LAFRA: We would like to thank the Relief Association for all of the kindness to our family at the time of Gerald George, our fathers passing in November of 2011. Although our father retired in 1969 after working 20 years as a fireman, the Relief Association was still there for

us with words of kindness and encouragement, financial help, and arranging for a chaplain for the services. We want to include this donation from our family and friends including Naydean Norris, Denise Calvin-Silva, Ginny Johnson and Robert Levingston. We appreciate all of the help in our time of need. Sincerely, Marilyn M. George The George Family Chatsworth, CA Hello Ms. Szkolnik (LAFRA staff), The Los Angeles Fire Department marked the 2011 holiday season by holding a luncheon on December 21, 2011, at the Frank Hotchkin Memorial Training Center. We celebrated by having high schoolers from a nearby school sing carols, a firefighter/paramedic provided music by playing the piano, craft tables and jolly jumpers were set up for the children to enjoy themselves before they sat down to take pictures with Santa. One of the highlights of the day was the auction we held to benefit the Widows, Orphans and Disabled Firemens Fund. Were hopeful that we can help in any

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34 November 2012

small way through this donation. The luncheon was hosted by the Training Division. Rachel Abad LAFD Training Division LA Firemens Relief Association: Ethan and Amanda Kreshek held an end of summer lemonade stand sale to benefit the fire department. They brought the check to Fire Station 83. I suggested the donation be forwarded to the Widows, Orphans and Disabled Firemens Fund. Please deposit this check in the name of these nice kids and family. Joe Szabados, Captain, FS 83-B To L.A.F.R.A. Please accept the enclosed donation to the Widows, Orphans and Disabled Firemens Fund in fond memory of Frank Cutter. Much of the success and longevity of the Grass Valley Reunion is directly the result of the dedication and hard work of Frank. Frank was our treasurer in the beginning years. Frank kept all the records and funds in an old Wells Fargo safe in his garage. I will miss Frank very much; he was like a brother to me. Sincerely, Ray Rutter Grass Valley, CA Dear Sir: The enclosed is a donation to the Widows and Orphans Fund in memory of Dana Dempsey, spouse of Leo Dempsey. Dana was a special lady. With Leos help she spent many years as a foster parent to young babies. Thanks to her loving care many young children received a good start in life. She will be missed. Sincerely, Howard Red Dunford Thousand Oaks, CA Relief AssociationPlease accept this donation to the Widows, Orphans and Disabled Firemens Fund in the name of retired Engineer Allan A. Nelson, grandfather of Dan and Mark Curry. Sincerely, Thomas and Cheryl Kitahata

Los Angeles Firemens Relief Association Please accept this donation and the thanks that go with it for the wonderful work that is done by the Board and all its employees in assisting with its members on a daily basis. This organization has assisted me and my family for 50 years (9/1/9162). Thank you for always being there when I was in need of you. Sincerely, John and Leigh Patchett Oxnard, CA Dear L.A. Firemens Relief Assoc, Thank you so much for providing all the medical equipment we needed to take care of Roger during his illness. I appreciate all the services you make available to the members in their time of need. Its wonderful to know you are there to assist us when we need you. Please give our thanks to James Dolan for attending the service and bringing us the flag we will treasure. Please accept this donation in memory of my beloved husband Alvin Roger Ruddick. Thank you, Sally Ruddick

Dear Andy, I want to sincerely thank you for the lovely plant. Its just gorgeous. Thanks also for all your help with Georges death. It came as such a shock! Sure do miss him. Im very thankful that you all are there for me. I sincerely appreciate it. Love in stuff, Ann Allen Andy I want to thank you so much for all you and the Relief did on behalf of my dad. The floral arrangement for the memorial was beautiful. The flag in the impressive case was unexpected and so appreciated. It was so nice to finally meet you after hearing so much about you for so many years. Thanks again, Holley Leavitt Henderson, NV

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November 2012 35

1. Register online at www.ralphs.com. (A) Sign in or follow the steps to create for a free account 2. Click My Account

(Youll need a Ralphs Rewards card if you dont have one, you can also register for a card once logged in)

3. Click Edit Community Contribution Program Information (B) 4. In the Find Your Organization 5. Click Save
eld, enter 84853 and select Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemens Fund from the list (C)

6. Buy groceries and use your Ralphs Rewards card at checkout

7. Ralphs Donates 8. We Thank You!
Important Information About Your Sign-Ups!!
If you have trouble signing up, you can either download a form or call Angelica Patino at (323) 259-5235 for a copy of the form that you can take to the store. Check your account occasionally you may be required to re-enter your Community Rewards information once a year.

And remember to re-register every September.

36 November 2012

doN PAoNE, Captain I, FS 26-B SATURdAy, NoVEMBER 3, 2012

Chevron Employee Park 324 West El Segundo Blvd (El Segundo X Illinois St) Los Angeles CA 90061 Social Hour - 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM Luncheon: 1:00 PM Menu: Tri Tip / Chicken $40, includes everything Call FS 26 - (323) 737-9010 or (213) 485-6226 All are welcome! Dress casual.

BRIAN l. RUBINo, Captain II, FS 89-B TUESdAy, NoVEMBER 13, 2012

Knollwood Country Club 12040 Balboa Blvd, Granada Hills CA 91344 Social Hour - 6:00 PM Dinner: 7:00 PM Menu: Steak, Chicken or Vegetarian Pasta Cost: $50 dress Attire: Informal Call FS 89 - (818) 756-868 or email: jeruedy@gmail.com Spouses are cordially invited

PAUl Paulie oRTEGA, Engineer, FS 42-B FRIdAy, NoVEMBER 16, 2012

Brookside Golf Club 1133 Rosemont Avenue, Pasadena CA 91103 Golf: 7:30 AM - 12:30 PM (optional) - Cost: $50 Social Hour - 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM Luncheon: 1:30 PM Menu: BBQ Buffet $50, includes tax, tip & gift Call FS 42 - (323) 924-5159 or Ruben Terrazas - (626) 705-5846 Spouses are cordially invited

JoE PoRRAS, Firefighter/EIT, Batt 10-C SATURdAy, NoVEMBER 17, 2012

Knollwood Country Club 12040 Balboa Blvd, Granada Hills CA 91344 Social Hour - 5:00 PM Dinner: 6:00 PM Menu: BBQ Buffet $50, includes tax, tip & gift Call FS 39 - (818) 756-8639 Spouses are cordially invited

MICHAEl CAMEllo, Arson Investigator, Arson/Counter Terrorism Section FRIdAy, JANUARy 25, 2013
Brookside Golf Club 1133 Rosemont Avenue, Pasadena CA 91103 Social Hour: 6 PM Dinner: 7:00 PM $50 per person, includes tax, tip & gift Checks payable: Arson House Dues Call FHMTC Arson Office - (213) 893-9850 or In person or by mail: FHMTC Arson office, 1700 Stadium Way, Suite 109, Los Angeles CA 90012 If interested in golf before dinner call Tim Crass - (213) 893-9827

MIKE BREHM, A/O, Fire Station 12 SATURdAy, FEBRUARy 23, 2013

Ports oCall Berth 76 San Pedro CA Social Hour: 4:30 Dinner: 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM Chicken or Steak - $50 per person, including tax & gift Call Fire Station 12 Grapevine - (323) 256-9563

November 2012 37

38 November 2012

n Saturday, September 8, 2012, 70 players from USHA and the Los Angeles Fire Department with family and friends gathered at Venice Beach for the LAFD 3-Wall Invitational. This tournament honors the 343 FDNY firefighters who gave their lives on September 11, 2001, which was memorialized on the tournament shirt. It has become a tradition for Fire Station 63 to clean the courts the day before the tournament, and as usual they did a great job. They also participated in the opening ceremony of the tournament, which included the LAFD Color Guard presenting our nations colors, the flag salute lead by Salena Smith (daughter of Captain Colin Smith) and a beautiful rendition of the national anthem by Gedina Bergstrom of the City Employees Club. Retired Captain John White led all present in an opening prayer, and Deputy Chief Mario Rueda said a few words appropriate for the occasion. This tournament has grown into a favorite of both LAFD and USHA players, which provided a great mix of talent. Lunch was prepared by committee, featuring pulled pork, bar-b-qued chicken, beef and fish along with potato salad, cole slaw and macaroni salad. Steve Carbahal and Greg Ramirez defeated Victor Perez and Jerry Puga in the Open Div. final. Darryl Arbuthnott and Mario Rueda defeated Oscar Tree Amaya and Johnnie Flores in the A Division. Joe Pro Pacheco and Jessie Spider Lopez defeated Tom Gilbert and Dave Ramsey in the B Division. Christian Gassler and Ronnie Hernandez defeated Brandon Prince and Jorge Espinoza in the C Division. West Coast Handball, United Firefighters of Los Angeles City, Bamco, and the City Employees Club sponsored the event. Participants received shirts, shorts, hats and a souvenir water bottle. All finalists and champions received embroidered backpacks.

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November 2012 39

suBmitteD By GreG hoLLy, a/o fs 88-B

March 14, 1988 September 25, 2012

Los Angeles Fire Department Crew 3 February 2012 September 2012

os Angeles Fire Department Crew 3 Cadet Ryan S. Kirby was killed tragically on September 25, 2012, in a non-department related accident. Ryan joined the LAFDs Crew 3 in February of 2012. He quickly earned the respect of his crew leaders and fellow cadets through his dedication and commitment to the LAFD and Crew 3. During his service, Ryan displayed a desire to learn and work hard to grasp as much information as we could provide. Ryan proudly served and worked hard to prove himself in hopes of one day achieving his dream of becoming a firefighter. With this dedication, he proudly took part in normal staffing

days with Crew 3 and was eager to catch his first fire. He finally got his break when Crew 3 responded to the recent Getty Fire. On Sunday, September 30, 2012, we said goodbye to Crew 3 Cadet Ryan S. Kirby. An outpouring of support was provided to Ryans family by the Los Angeles Fire Department, Los Angeles County Fire Department, Ventura County Fire Department and the Mountains Recreation Conservancy Authority. Attending his funeral service were more than 130 fire service personnel from these four different agencies, all showing there support for Ryan. The Kirby family was blown away with the support for their son and are extremely grateful for the assistance we have provided. Ryan will forever be with us, Looking over us, Protecting us and Guiding us. Forever in our Hearts.

40 November 2012

MEMBERS
retired on A disAbility pension June 10, 1970 from oCdA. Passed away august 25, 2012. frankLin n. Leavitt, AssistAnt ChieF. Appointed november 01, 1948. karL L. smith, FireFighter. Appointed JAnuAry 16, 1965. retired on A serviCe pension June 01, 1978 from div 2-A. Passed away august 30, 2012. aLfreD unzueta, FireFighter. Appointed oCtober 27, 1947.

retired on A serviCe pension June 01, 1975 from fs 18-A. Passed away sePtember 05, 2012. aLvin r. ruDDick, CAptAin ii. Appointed July 02, 1951.

retired on A serviCe pension JAnuAry 01, 1978 from HeliCopter unit. Passed away sePtember 08, 2012. charLes f. nieLsen, CAptAin. Appointed July 02, 1956.

retired on A disAbility pension July 05, 1984 from fs 70-A. Passed away sePtember 11, 2012. frankLyn D. cutter, CAptAin. Appointed JAnuAry 05, 1948.

retired on A serviCe pension februAry 01, 1976 from fs 10. Passed away sePtember 17, 2012. roBert s. meLGoza, FireFighter iii. Appointed oCtober 11, 1990.

retired on A disAbility pension deCember 06, 1995 from fs 57. Passed away sePtember 18, 2012. richarD a. purDy, FireFighter. Appointed mAy 04, 1961.

retired on A disAbility pension April 14, 1983 from fs 12-A. Passed away sePtember 26, 2012. Leon r. rauh, CAptAin. Appointed mAy 19, 1958.

retired on A disAbility pension mArCH 10, 1982 from fs 19-b. Passed away sePtember 27, 2012. DaviD L. meGorDen, AppArAtus OperAtOr. Appointed november 24, 1962.

retired on A serviCe pension July 08, 1984 from fs 88. Passed away sePtember 29, 2012.

FAMiLY
marhorie nowLin, surviving spouse of vAn A. nowlin, Passed away august 09, 2012. eveLyn c. cromeLL, spouse of george Cromell, Passed away august 29, 2012. suzanne rose, spouse of HowArd m. rose, Passed away sePtember 01, 2012. anita a. saLazar, spouse of Jimmie J. sAlAzAr, Passed away sePtember 09, 2012. Jeanette e. wiLLiams, surviving spouse of rAlpH r. williAms, Passed away sePtember 14, 2012. patricia m. raGan, surviving spouse of pAul e. rAgAn, Passed away sePtember 16, 2012. caroL L. parker, surviving spouse of glenn C. pArker, Passed away sePtember 24, 2012. Betty-Jo waiBeL, surviving spouse of williAm k. wAibel, Passed away sePtember 27, 2012. LoriLene J. van DeLL, surviving spouse of JAmes d. vAn dell, Passed away sePtember 30, 2012.

November 2012 41

42 November 2012

specific method for a search is commonly known as Vent-EnterSearch or VES. Utilizing this method, a search team would begin a search by forcing entry as close to the seat of a fire as possible, allowing the search team to search close to the fire area in a minimal amount of time. This method can be very effective as search personnel can be positioned between the fire and a ventilation opening (normally a window used for the entry portion of this operation). However, search personnel can also be positioned between the vent opening and advancing attack personnel. Obviously, these considerations can place search personnel in an extremely dangerous position. If it is necessary to breach a room or area through a wall (except masonry walls) due to high heat in hallways, extension of fire, security bars, etc., the following options can be utilized: From the interior of a room, locate the appropriate wall to be breached. Using an axe or power saw, locate a stud. Cut vertically along the adjoining studs and horizontally along the base line. Remove the center stud by striking at the lowest possible point with an axe and pry the cut portion of the wall loose from the top. This will generally provide an opening 32-inches wide in less than two minutes. When walls constructed of drywall and metal studs are encountered, breaching can be easily accomplished by removing the drywall and bending the metal studs apart (or to each side). From the exterior of a building, locate the appropriate wall to be breached. If a window is not available, use the aforementioned method. If a window is available, use the aforementioned method under the window. Remember, when cutting exterior or interior walls, electrical wires may be present and these methods should only be used as a last resort unless the electrical power to the structure has been eliminated. However, if a quick opening is necessary and electrical power to the structure has not been eliminated, consider the degree of the hazard. The person in charge of a search operation (search officer) should not participate in actual search methods. This allows the search officer to focus on the search, status of the environment, length of time remaining for the search, crew safety, and the most appropriate exit path. Among other benefits, this can dramatically enhance crew confidence and safety. Depending on the type of structure, fire, and potential location of victims, consider the use of positive pressure ventilation (PPV) to reduce the presence of heat, smoke, and increase visibility and access to victims. However, when using blowers, consider the potential impact of noise on communications. Note: A quick attack on the seat of a fire in concert with horizontal and/or vertical ventilation operations can dramatically enhance a search operation and should be a prime consideration.

vancing through a structure. Although some of these methods may never be used at an actual incident, they are submitted as examples of available options that can be used with the understanding that a search would be conducted by a minimum of two persons, an RIT would be used as staffing and conditions dictate. Additionally, we will assume these searches are conducted in minimal or no visibility which has the potential to dramatically slow and/or cause unexpected difficulties for any search operation. This is why ventilation is so important, particularly for search operations, as it can noticeably improve visibility which can considerably improve any search operation. These search methods will enhance your search options and dramatically improve personnel expertise and teamwork. The time to preplan search methods and enhance confidence is before a search is necessary, not during a search in a hazardous atmosphere.

search methoDs

In our next article, we will begin to look at the four popular examples of methods that can be utilized by search personnel while ad-

November 2012 43

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44 November 2012

he Los Angeles Fire Department welcomed members of the community to join civic leaders, including Fire Chief Brian Cummings, at the formal dedication and public grand opening of New Fire Station 64 on Saturday, September 29, 2012 New 64s is located at 10811 South Main Street. Following the dedication ceremony, there was food and entertainment, static displays of fire and rescue equipment, as well as a chance to tour one of Southern Californias newest Fire Stations. New Fire Station 64 was built with Proposition F funds.

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November 2012 45

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46 November 2012

by Mike Mastro, President/CEO Los Angeles Firemens Credit Union BLACK FRiDAY SAVE THE GREEN AND YOU WONT SEE RED Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, marks the first official day of the holiday shopping season. Retailers see this sales event as their best opportunity of the year to boost slumping sales figures. Consumers see it as their best hope to find dynamite deals on holiday gifts for friends and family or to stock up on the items they really want for themselves. Despite the great bargains shoppers can score during these once-a-year sales, Black Friday is notorious for being one of the most nightmarish shopping days of the entire year. For this months article, Ill offer some tips to help you survive Black Friday with your budget, your sanity, and your holiday spirit intact. Start your window shopping early. Sales circulars dont usually appear in your local paper until Thanksgiving Day, but that doesnt mean you have to wait until then to find out which items are available for big discounts. Websites such as GottaDeal.com begin receiving spoiler copies of stores ad inserts as early as mid-October. Advance notice of sales will help you form a preliminary plan of attack as it allows you to pinpoint the stores that are offering the best prices, as well as to research the consumer reviews of the items you are considering. A word to the wise, though: Youll want to confirm the final pricing in the official printed ad or on the stores website as the leaked ad could contain typos or changes that are corrected in the final versions. Find out about store policies early. Planning ahead also allows you to find ways to avoid some of the stress of the biggest shopping day of the year. Look to minimize the number of stores youll need to visit by first patronizing those that offer a price match guarantee for competitors advertised deals. But be sure to check with the stores customer service department prior to Turkey Day to ensure that this isnt the one day of the year when they suspend their normal price match policy. Additionally, some stores have begun implementing a ticket system for their hottest items, especially for those which they only stock in limited quantities. Talk to the store manager or customer service rep about the procedures they have in place and ask for their recommendations. If they tell you that last year, the only people receiving tickets were those that began camping out the night before, youll have time to decide if this is a hoop youre willing to jump through to save a little cash. Make a list and stick to it. Last year consumers spent a record $11.4 billion on Black Friday sales. This was up 6.6% over the previous year despite an unemployment rate of 9%. While that level of spending provides a substantial boost for retailers and pumps money into the economy, youll want to be sure that those amazing deals dont entice you into spending more than you can really afford. Instead, make a list of the family and friends you need to shop for, along with a gift budget for each one, and cross them off the list once youve picked something up for them. When your list is empty, its time to pack it in. Plan your day accordingly. This year, Black Friday falls on November 23. It is becoming synonymous with appointment shopping as retailers are anxious to get shoppers in through their doors as early as possible. They schedule early bird sales with extra discounts for those that agree to start shopping before the break of dawn. But to keep the volume of customers steady throughout the day, some have also started to include these limited-time sales in the middle of the afternoon or in the evening hours. To take advantage of these extra bargains, create an itinerary for your day, and be sure to bring along the sales ads with the deals you want circled so you can make a beeline toward them as you enter the store. An added tip: plan to show up at least 30 to 45 minutes prior to the advertised sale time. Youll be grateful for the extra cushion when you are cruising the parking lot, waiting for a space to open up, and then walking to the store from the place in Eastern Siberia where you were finally able to park. Travel light and comfortably. Unless you have a huge and heavy list of items that you need to pick up, try to forego the shopping cart and instead carry an oversized shoulder bag to load your purchases into. Heavy crowds of people make a cart difficult to maneuver, and many times, there are far fewer carts available than there are shoppers. A shopping bag can also help you cut down on your impulse purchases and stay within your budget. Itll also come in handy as many cities and counties have adopted ordinances to ban plastic bags. The only thing worse than the distances youre going to travel walking around on Black Friday? Its the time youll spend waiting in line. Which leads us to our next tip Shop online. These days, there are many bargains to be had without standing in line or even leaving the house. Many retailers offer some excellent Black Friday deals on their websites. The availability of bigticket and high-demand items will vary from store to store, but it is always a good idea to check the website before heading out. Some retailers will offer special bargains on Thanksgiving Day as well, so why not hit the web while the bird is browning? LAFCU is here to help. Whatever may be on your gift-giving list, your Credit Union can help. From our most convenient source of credit through an LAFCU Visa credit card to a vehicle loan, we can help you bring joy to the holidays, while keeping the jingle in your pocket with cash-back or rewards. Visit us online at www.lafirecu.org or contact a Credit Union Representative at (800) 231-1626 for assistance. One final piece of advice: Be sure to pack your sense of humor before heading out into the Black Friday festivities. After all, the start of the shopping season signifies that the joys of the holidays are just around the corner. The more business we do together as a Fire Family, the greater the financial reward will be for all members! Happy Holidays!

Mike Mastro

November 2012 47

his information notice is directed to prospective new members, active or retired L. A. City Firefighters, who would like to join our golf club. Applications for membership will be accepted from September 1st through December 1st, 2010. The dues for the membership are $75.00 per year. This will entitle the member to participate in all LAFD Golf Club functions, which includes 2 to 3 one day tournaments per month, 2 major tournaments (the Memorial Club Championship in May and the Partners Championship at the Singing Hills at Sycuan Resort in September, and 4 Southern California Firefighters Golf Association major tournaments (Palm Springs in March, Primm Resort (Nevada) in May, Lake Tahoe in August, and Pebble Beach in November). It will also establish a handicap index with the Southern California Golf Association. To apply, please send a check for $75.00 made out to the LAFD Golf Club. Or go to our website at: http://lafdgc.com

Visit our website, follow the link and fill out the application. The information will be forwarded to me for processing. If you decide to use regular mail please include a short note with your present assignment, home address, phone number, email address, your member number and club name (if a member of another club), and any scorecards from the last six months to establish a starting handicap. Mail this information to:

Noel Murchet 16301 Gentry Lane Huntington Beach, Ca. 92647 Cell Phone #714-330-3477 Email:murchet@earthlink.net

48 November 2012

LAFD Historical Society

Submitted by Frank Borden Director of Operations, LAFDHS

November 6, 1961 - Revisited

ach year when November rolls around I think of two significant events for me on the LAFD. My appointment to the Department on November 7, 1959 and the Bel Air Fire on November 6, 1961. Frank Borden, LAFD retired Sunday, November the 6th, 1961, was hot and windy in Los Angeles. The notorious Santa Ana winds were blowing, and the cold that most of the country was feeling was notably absent in the City of Angels. Although the winds slowed overnight, as dawn approached on Monday the 6th, it appeared that the week would be another one of heat, winds, and low humidity. I had reported to work at Fire Station 92 and was preparing for the morning lineup when four bells noted the arrival of a teletype from headquarters. It would be considered a high hazard day in the Santa Monica mountains, directly to the northwest of the station where I was assigned, on Pico Blvd. At 8:15AM, the Van Nuys Signal Office received a telephone call from a construction crew about burning brush at the northern end of Stone Canyon on the Sherman Oaks side of Mulholland Drive. Within a few minutes, additional calls came into the West Los Angeles and Westlake Signal Offices. As the first fire companies left quarters and headed up toward Stone Canyon, the Van Nuys Signal Office received a radio report of, a significant loomup. Within minutes, the first Battalion Chief had arrived on scene. The fire was already cresting the top of Stone Canyon and moving west at great, wind-driven speeds. At Fire Station 92, our morning lineup was underway. We were being updated by our Captain Jack Skinner. In those days, lineup was a fairly formal affair, and the crew was literally lined up in front of the apparatus facing the street. As the apparatus doors were opened, Captain Jack Skinner, was facing us, and unable to see what we saw a dark billowing cloud of smoke filling the west Los Angeles sky. After a moment of disbelief we told Captain Skinner to turn around to see the impressive sight and although not yet dispatched, we grabbed our gear and responded to the fire. We knew this was the big one and we were all very excited and ready to face the challenge. By this time, the first command post

the bel air Fire

had been established on Mulholland Drive above Stone Canyon. Additional units were requested, including Engine 92. It was now nearly 8:30AM, and a major emergency was declared. The fire had by now overrun the upper Stone Canyon reservoir and was moving uncontrolled into the expensive community of Bel Air. Incoming companies were deployed along Chalon, Chantilly and Roscomare Road, several of the more populated streets within the Bel Air community. Engine 92 was moving east on Mulholland towards Roscomare, when the road in front of us appeared to be overrun with smoke and fire. Captain Skinner, knowing that there was little time, spoke to Engineer Hopkins and turned around and yelled back to us on the tailboard above the roar of the 1958 Seagrave Triple Combination Engine, Okay, boys, duck your heads and close your eyes! Were going through the fire! Hoppy engaged the clutch and upshifted. The rig accelerated and bore down on the curtain of fire and smoke. Seconds later, the large open cockpit fire engine emerged on the other side of the flaming front, unscathed. The only evidence the crew had just driven through a wall of flames was dozens of small burning embers lying on the hose bed. Or so we thought. Everyone was feeling really good at the near miss and busy patting out the bits of smoldering hose in the bed in front of the tailboard we were riding. But the smell of burning didnt stop. I smelled a different odor and then noticed that my dungaree pants leg was on fire . . . literally. This was before Nomex-based turnouts when firemen wore blue cotton dungarees. As the engine careened through the twisty roads, I reached down and patted the fire out, rather vigorously, as I remember. Within five hours, the entire A-Platoon of the LAFD had been recalled to duty (it was a B-Platoon day). The wind was gusting up to 100 mph in the midst of the blaze, while the Santa Ana winds were averaging 65mph. The fire moved southeast from Mulholland Drive,

moved down Stradella and then whipped its way down Roscomare Road. Engine 92 was positioned on Roscomare and I, along with my crew and several other firemen, were working to save several homes. The fire front had not arrived, but the 65mph winds were carrying burning brands for miles and as they landed on the then-common wood shake roofs of the 1950s era-homes, they ignited. Homes were burning from the roof down. It was difficult to see as the sky was blotted out. Brands and sparks filled the air, along with smoke, making it very difficult to breath. And worst of all, water pressure was dropping, making it nearly impossible to properly fight the blaze. In some cases, firemen shoveled dirt onto burning garages and roofs, attempting to stop the advance of the fire. Vince Cortazzo and I were on one wood shingle roof with a pick head axe and a pry bar pulling burning shingles off. Thats when we got hit with a big borate drop from a four engine air tanker. I still have flecks of borate in my old black helmet from that day. Luckily we were able to stay on the roof and completed our job. Engine 92 was at the corner of Roscomare and Anzio Road. A beautiful home with a wood shake roof that had just taken
engine 92 in Front oF the house at anZio and rosCoMare. our Crew was Fighting the Fire in this house. noveMBer 6, 1961

i aM standing in Front oF the saMe house on rosCoMare 48 years later.

November 2012 49

wagon 28 on rosCoMare. retired B/C John adaMs was assigned to engine 28 at the tiMe oF the Fire But had to go to CaPtains orientation Class that Morning. the Class was interruPted and they were told to rePort to old Fs 78. w 28s Crew was CaPtain alBera, engineer lahiCKey, FireMen King, Fulton and laughlin. the 50
year anniversary oF the

was held at

Fs 71 in Bel air.

Bel air Fire

off. The roof was well involved. I advanced an inch and a half line into the home, and was in the attic on a ladder, attempting to save the interior of the home. Engineer Hopkins, who was out with the rig, noticed the roof was starting to weaken and rushed inside, telling me to get out. As we made our way through the hallway to the outside, most of the roof collapsed into the structure. A big chandelier fell right between us. It was a close call, but only one of many that we and other firemen would face throughout the day and night. I really owe a lot to Hoppy for getting me out of the house before the roof came down. Chief Henry Sawyer, Commander of the Mountain Patrol knew it was vital to get a good overview of the massive blaze. The LAFD had ordered its first helicopter, but it had not yet arrived. Undaunted, the chief requested the use of a local news helicopter and flew above the fire the first use of a helicopter as a command observation platform. Flames reached the 14th tee of the exclusive Bel Air Country Club, and dotted the landscape throughout Bel Air. Within a few hours, the flames jumped Sepulveda Boulevard and the newly constructed San Diego Freeway.

The fire spread to Brentwood and down Kenter Avenue, extending into Mandeville Canyon and through the Santa Monica Mountains. Engine 92 continued to work on structure protection. We used a hit and run tactic, designed to maximize the process of saving structures that could be saved. We moved throughout Bel Air, eventually ending up in Brentwood, dousing wood shingle roof after wood shingle roof. It was repetitive and exhausting. The wood shake shingles may have been pretty, but it was clear they were contributing to the destruction of homes. In the early hours of November 7th, all off-duty LA City firemen were recalled. The LA County Fire Department provided six engines, six camp crews, and provided additional resources to staff empty City stations, as did many other surrounding fire agencies. An additional 400 LA County firefighters stood by. 250 National Guard soldiers were put into action to support the Los Angeles Police Department, as looting became a concern. Several people were arrested and the city put into effect the recently passed State Disaster Law that permitted on-thespot arrest of any unauthorized person in a disaster zone. The massive evacuation that took place was the largest in the citys history. 300 police officers helped guide 3,500 residents out of Bel Air. The northern boundary of the fire was Mulholland Drive. On the south it was about one-half mile above Sunset Boulevard. On the west, the flames were past Mandeville Canyon at one point and moving toward Sullivan Canyon. The eastern boundary reached to Beverly Glen and to the edge of Benedict Canyon. By the middle of the day on November 7th, 2,500 firefighters were battling the blaze, and were finally making progress. By 3 p.m. the winds began to still. Occasional bursts of wind blew hotspots upslope back towards Mulholland Drive. With bulldozers, backfires, and Borate drops, firefighters worked to contain the blaze. Not until the morning of November 8 did they reach containment. One of the keys to the overall firefight was 12 aerial tankers, some were converted WWII military aircraft, which were successful in stopping the advance on the perimeter of the fire by dropping fire retardant from the air. When the wind died on the afternoon of the 7th, firefighters knew the end was near. The efforts of those firefighters who battled to save homes should not be underestimated,

however. A wind-driven wildfire is unlike any other, and structure protection is a dangerous and potentially deadly activity. Nearly a dozen firefighters were injured, many from molten tar dripping from the roofs of blazing homes. Three LA firemen were admitted to UCLA Medical Center. Their injuries were not life threatening. Up to 100 other people suffered slight injuries, depending on which report you read and amazingly no one lost their life. In Bel Air, 484 homes were destroyed. 190 others were damaged. 16,090 acres were burned. The cost of damage (in 1961 dollars) was in excess of $30 million. Yet, the incident was considered a success, as the LAFD saved 78% of the homes in the path of the fire. Its a remarkable statement, given this fire took place before the implementation of the Incident Command System, helicopter firefighting, multiple radio frequencies and all of the other modern fire suppression tactics that exist today. Today, as a retired LAFD Assistant Chief, I still own those Bel Air fire dungarees with the hole burned in the pants leg. And, the LAFD Historical Society owns the 1958 Seagrave Triple Fire Engine that I rode on thru the flames during the 1961 Bel Air Fire. A few years ago I was invited to visit that home at the corner of Roscomare and Anzio, and to my surprise, the same family still lived there. They rebuilt their home, this time without a wood shake roof. We had a great time sharing our experiences and plan to reunite on the anniversary of the fire on November 6th. Engineer Hopkins, who is 92 years young now, and I plan to ride up in that beautiful 1958 Seagrave Old Engine 92. Retired Engineers Mark Howell and Tim Griffin have worked on the restoration of Engine 92 for a few years and it looks almost better than new. We did have a 50 year reunion at FS 71 in Bel Air last year on November 6th. It was pouring rain that day so we did not bring Old Engine 92, but that didnt dampen the spirits of those who attended the event. Some of you remember open cab rigs in the rain.
our
restored

looKs now

1958 seagrave engine 92 ready to go!!!

as it

50 November 2012

To learn more about the Bel Air Fire, you can read the official LAFD report on the fire. You can also visit the LAFD Museum and Memorial in Hollywood, open every Saturday. We will be showing the LAFD produced movie Design for Disaster every Saturday during the month of November at 1 pm, so please come and visit. As a result of the Bel Air Disaster, the City of Los Angeles was able to initiate a series of fire safety policies and several laws, including the outlawing of wood shake/shingle roofs. The Brush Clearance program was initiated and today, the City of Los Angeles has one of the most stringent policies designed to create defensible space around homes. Most importantly, the disaster that was November 6, 1961 could occur again. A wind-driven wildfire is unique when it comes to firefighting. It is a co-conspirator with the weather, and is difficult to predict relative to direction, speed, and intensity. Only with continuing cooperation of homeowners, following the law with regard to brush clearance, defensible space overall, and understanding the concept of Ready, Set, Go to evacuate when a disaster strikes, can the tragedy of the Bel Air fire be avoided in the future. This and other incident stories can be found on our LAFDHS website: www.lafdmuseum.org or www.lafire.com

WHATS NEW AT THE MUSEUM? Our Historical Society hosted The Fire Museum Networks 24th Annual Fire Museum Seminar from September 27 to 30. The members came from all over the country to network and learn about fire museum operations, exhibits and collections. They had a busy schedule starting at our Hollywood Museum & Memorial and touring the Old Plaza Fire Station in Downtown, the African American Firefighters Museum in Old Station 30, The LA County Museum, the Long Beach Firefighters Museum, our Harbor Museum in Old FS 36, Old Fireboat 2 - The Ralph J. Scott and New Fireboat 2 - the Warner L. Lawrence at FS 112. In addition to the great tours they had a full day of seminars at our Museum. The educational room in the museum is a work in progress by Bill Dahlquist, but it is coming along now with some fire safety signage. Bill has done an amazing job creating the vision for the room and actually building the props. We need much more to complete it like computers, AV equipment, and more props. --We have a big year planned for 2013 with completion of many long term projects, work on preserving Old Fireboat 2, apparatus restoration, and probably hundreds of projects all done by our volunteers. This is in addition to having many events throughout the year and of course providing educational opportunities for the public to learn about our history and our LAFD members and fire and life safety for all.

Bill dahlquist

the ProPs he designed and Built For the eduCational rooM uPstairs in the

standing in Front oF Part oF

hollywood MuseuM.

last Month i Mentioned all the Fine worK tiM MChenry has done For us at the MuseuM. this is a Photo oF tiM standing next to the la Fire and PoliCe alarM Box he restored.

November 2012

tiM and his transPort 1967 when he was a heavy equiPMent oPerator For the la County Fire dePartMent.
vintage Photo oF rig and doZer in

December 2012

we will again Be hosting the Marine CorPs 237th Birthday at the hollywood MuseuM on noveMBer 10th. all Marines FroM the laFd and other agenCies and Friends oF the CorPs liKe Me are invited. sgt. MaJor Bill staPles (retired) will oversee the event that inCludes a sPeCial CereMony, disPlays, sPeaKers, a raFFle and our sPeCial s.o.s Meal served on Military trays.

November 2012 51

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Lincoln / Mercury / Honda / Mazda / Volvo / Ford Jaguar / Lotus / Aston Martin / Spyker / Galpin Auto Sports For special pricing contact terry MillerFleet Sales & Leasing 15505 Roscoe Blvd, North Hills CA 91343 818-797-3800 l www.galpin.com 1.800.GO.GALPIN ----------------------------Goudy HoNdA Auto Leasing & Fleet Sales Since 1989 Fastest Growing Dealer in the Nation 1400 W Main St, Alhambra CA 91801 Eddie WangFleet & Lease Manager 626-300-4222 l 800-423-1114 ----------------------------HAMER toyotA, INC. Camry / Celica / Corolla / Tundra Tacoma / Sienna / Supra / Solara 11041 Sepulveda Blvd, Mission Hills CA Ask for Steve densonFleet Manager steve@hamertoyota.com 818-365-9621 Specializing in hassle-free car buying ----------------------------HoNdA oF HoLLyWood Honda - Sales and Leasing Large Selection of Used Vehicles 6511 Santa Monica Blvd, Hollywood CA Ask for dave Erickson 323-466-3251 l Fax: 323-462-0187 DaveE@hondaofhollywood.com 52 November 2012

LOS ANGELES FIREMENS RELIEF ASSOCIATION MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES September 05, 2012
CALL TO ORDER President John Jacobsen called the meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Los Angeles Firemens Relief Association to order at 11:03 a.m. ROLL CALL MEMBERS PRESENT: John Jacobsen, President Juan Albarran, Vice President Andrew Kuljis, Secretary Trustee Jeff Cawdrey Trustee Michael Overholser Trustee Gary Matsubara Trustee Chris Stine Trustee Doak Smith Trustee Francisco Hernandez Trustee Craig White Trustee Robert Steinbacher Trustee Steven Domanski Trustee Kurt Stabel Trustee David Ortiz Trustee David Lowe Pension Trustee Tim Larson Pension David Ned Smith - Executive Director Controller Todd Layfer MEMBERS ABSENT: Trustee Gene Bednarchik (Excused) Trustee Rick Godinez (Excused) Trustee Chris Hart (Excused) Trustee James Coburn (Excused) Trustee Steve Tufts (Excused) Trustee David Peters (Excused) Trustee Barry Hedberg Pension (Excused) Trustee Mark Akahoshi (Excused) GUESTS: Jim Dolan, Asst. Secretary iNVOCATiON & Flag Salute Tim Larson led the invocation. David Lowe led the flag salute. RATiFiCATiON OF MiNUTES John Jacobsen entertained a motion to ratify and dispense with the reading of the minutes of the Special Board of Trustees meeting held August 15, 2012 and the Board of Trustees meeting held August 5, 2012. David Ortiz so moved. Tim Larson seconded the motion. There was no further discussion or objections. Motion carried to ratify and dispense with the reading of the minutes of the Special Board Meeting held August 15, 2012 and the Board of Trustees held August 5, 2012. PRESiDENT & V.P. ELECTiON Jacobsen entertained a motion to approve the nomination and election of John Jacobsen for President and Juan Albarran for Vice President for the year 2013. Gary Matsubara motioned to approve the nominations and elections. Craig White seconded. There was no discussion or objections. Motion carried to elect John Jacobsen for President and Juan Albarran for Vice President for the year 2013. PRESiDENT REPORT 1) Jacobsen informed the Board that UFLAC was holding an EAP Workshop on September 10th and 11th. He mentioned that Steve Domanski has reserved a couple of spots if anyone was interested in attending. 2) Jacobsen referred to a legislative bill affecting workers comp and how it could affect both active and retired members. He stated that the draft bill will modify the review process, cutting a portion of due process out of the equation. Also, it will eliminate our ability to seek reimbursement from the City for workers comp claims that were paid by the medical plan.. He indicated that the bill has not yet been approved by the legislature. 3) Jacobsen referred to the mailing that went to members who are not contributing to the WODFF via payroll deduction. He indicated that so far, we have gotten a good response primarily from retirees. He mentioned that the overall feedback was positive. ViCE PRESiDENT REPORT Juan Albarran referred to the Colorado Springs Memorial and stated that Kurt Stabel, Robert Steinbacher and he will be attending the event to escort the families of those members being placed on the Memorial Wall. He stated that members being place on the wall were Keith Kroll, Ralph Urquiza, Eric Shepherd and Glenn Smith. EXECUTiVE DiRECTORS REPORT 1) Todd Layfer presented the financial expenditures compared to the budget for the year through June 30, 2012. He stated that the main revenue from operations were on target from what was projected. He referred to the benefits paid to members and indicated that the medical and pharmaceutical benefits are tracking below what was anticipated. He mentioned that the DME benefit payout was running higher than anticipated. He indicated that the assistance for members has been tracking approximately 42% below from what was budgeted. He referred to contributions and indicated that the payroll deductions are on target and reviewed the net income for Hope for Firefighters and other events compared to 2011. He stated that overall expenditures were below budget. 2) David Smith informed the Board that the new WODFF.org website was up and working. He indicated that this site was directed towards non-members of the November 2012 53

Relief and for those wanting to donate to the WODFF. He also stated that this site was produced in-house with the LAFRA staff which enables them to make future changes easily. He referred to the LAFRA.org site and indicated that they are currently reviewing multiple draft pages and it will hopefully be up and running within a few weeks. 3) Todd Layfer provided an update on the new Member Services position and stated that they have selected 10 candidates from over 65 applications for the interview process. He stated that the second round of interviews will be conducted by himself and David Smith. 4) David Smith referred to the FRITS program project and stated that the consultant is roughly 50% complete with documenting the FRITS program. He stated that he should have it completed by the end of October. He indicated that in November, they will go out for bids to have the FRITS system upgraded to one of the new software platforms. iNVESTMENT COMMiTTEE REPORT Robert Steinbacher informed the Board that there will be an Investment Committee meeting on September 19th at 10:00am. He mentioned that Kurt Stabel will give a brief synopsis on IVAs view of world investments. ADMiNiSTRATiVE COMMiTTEE REPORT Robert Steinbacher presented the following motions. The committee recommends and I so move to pay the usual and customary bills in the amount of $1,262,977.24. There was no discussion or objections. Motion carried to pay the usual and customary bills in the amount of $1,262,977.24. The committee recommends and I so move to pay the professional fees in the amount of $65,418.16. There was no 54 November 2012

discussion or objections. Motion carried to pay the professional fees in the amount of $65,418.16. Robert Steinbacher referred to the Six Flags Magic Mountain event and stated that the risk of the cost for the required guaranteed attendance wasnt considered worth the value of the event to LAFRA. Jacobsen reported that the sales and attendance have gone down through the years and recommended that we not hold the event next year. MEDiCAL COMMiTTEE REPORT Robert Steinbacher presented the following motion. The committee recommends and I so move to accept the applications to the Medical Plan. There was no discussion and no objections. Motion carried to accept all applications to the Medical Plan. Steinbacher informed the Board that the Administrative Committee has decided not to contract with the Part D Advisors after consulting with Burchfield and Bradawn. RELiEF COMMiTTEE REPORT Doak Smith presented the following motion. The committee recommends and I so move to pay: The Sick & Injury benefits in the amount of $7,686.55 The Estate Planning benefit in the amount of $2,400, The Relief Death Benefits in the amount of $49,500 There was no discussion or objections. Motion carried to pay the above Relief benefits. Doak Smith read the names of members who recently passed and asked for a

moment of silence from the Board. MEMORiALS Loren L. White Albert U. Loewe Carl A. Carlson James A. Graham James R. Costello Herbert L. Tourtillott Robert H. Wickord Arnold L. Osburn Heinz W. Wahlers John E. Pollock Alan A. Vorgitch ASSiSTANCE COMMiTTEE Doak Smith presented the following motions. The committee recommends and I so move to accept the donations in the amount of $32,264.87 to the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemens Fund. There was no discussion or objections. Motion carried to accept the donations in the amount of $32,264.87 to the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemens Fund. The committee recommends and I so move to approve the financial assistance applications for surviving spouses, active and retired members. Doak reported that there were two assistance applications that were denied because of no financial need. There was no discussion or objections. Motion carried to approve the financial assistance applications for surviving spouses, active and retired members. The committee recommends and I so move to assist a member with DME in the amount of $34,973. Doak Smith informed the Board that the member has Kaiser insurance coverage and has provided the committee with a prescription and letter of necessity from his physician. There was no further discussion or objections. Motion carried to approve assistance for a member in the amount of $34,973.

EMERGENCY ADVANCEMENTS Doak Smith presented the following motion. The committee recommends and I so move to approve the emergency advancement applications for active and retired members. There was no discussion or objections. Motion carried to approve the emergency advancement applications for active and retired members. SECRETARYS REPORT Andy Kuljis informed the Board that he has not received any intent to run for a Trustee position other than from existing Trustees whose terms are expiring. SETTiNG OF DATES 1) Over the Line Tournament September 12th 2) LAFD Invitational Golf Tournament September 24th 3) Mayo Classic November 7th 4) IFEBP Annual Employee Benefits Conf. November 11th 14th 5) LAFRA Open House December 1st RETiREMENT DiNNERS 1) Tom Lambert September 8th Ports OCall Restaurant (Kuljis) 2) Michael Whitehouse October 2nd Odyssey Restaurant (Peters) 3) Brian Rubino November 13th Knollwood Country Club (Steinbacher) 4) Michael Camello January 25th Brookside Golf Club (Kuljis) ADJOURNMENT John Jacobsen entertained a motion to adjourn. Gary Matsubara so moved. Tim Larson seconded. There was no discussion and no objections. Motion carried to adjourn. The Board of Trustees meeting adjourned at 12:10am. John Jacobsen, President

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(323) 259-5217 or email at MCasillas@LAFRA.org
November 2012 55

Ask for your Getting Started Kit today by calling

donations to Widows, orphans & disabled Firemens Fund

September 2012
Bernard suBKosKi FroM tHe EstatE of BErnard suBkoski ronald n leavitt in MeMory oF frank LEavitt John J. PatChett in gratitude to WaynE shErman & thE Board of trustEEs John Kury & sherry rooK in MeMory oF raLph C. rook donailah K. santos hollywood Post no 43 the aMeriCan legion FroM tHe yearly
Meeting donation

PaMela aBBott John l. PeCel in MeMory oF gEorgE doErfLEr John J. PatChett in MeMory oF aL vorgitCh howard dunFord John K. sutton naydean narris in MeMory oF gEraLd gEorgE Just give in Honor oF annE BuChanan & hECtor hErnandEz gretChen l. KirK
in MeMory oF

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aLvin (rogEr) ruddiCk

doris M. shrewsBury Ferguson salon ManageMent inC. in MeMory oF frank LEavitt thoMas d. Kitahata in MeMory oF EnginEEr aLLan a. nELson, grandFatHer oF dan & Mark curry BarBara J. Brown in MeMory oF frank CuttEr - one oF tHe graSS valley group helen M. anear in MeMory oF My HuSBand irving m. anEar riCK denning in MeMory oF aLan vorgitCh PatriCia harrison in MeMory oF gEorgE doErfLEr PatriCia loPeZ in MeMory oF CharLEs niELsEn gerald l. layton in MeMory oF aLvin (rogEr) ruddiCk george a. silva in MeMory oF gEraLd gEorgE John eilers in MeMory oF gEorgE doErfLEr harry K. dawson
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ralPh J. whitney

proceedS FroM tHe inSurance policy

MiChael toussaint in MeMory oF CharLEs niELsEn FroM your FriendS at gyM Spot Fire station no. 64 FroM tHe firE ExtinguishEr fund inge d. wahlers in MeMory oF My HuSBand hEinz WahLErs Kristen lundring gary r. teadtKe ethel i. CruMPaCKer rayMond d. rutter in MeMory oF frank CuttEr Brian staley in Honor oF My grandFatHer CharLEs niELsEn Marilyn george in MeMory oF gEraLd gEorgE JoyCe CoChran in MeMory oF ChuCk niELsEn anton J Felando in MeMory oF stanCiL JonEs riChard guyer in MeMory oF gEorgE doErfLEr helen l. sChulZ JaCK d. Chell virginia turley in loving MeMory oF My HuSBand frEd f. turLEy ruBen Contreras in Honor oF 9/11 hEroEs & staff of 77s glen & Mary wilKinson in MeMory oF ChuCk niELsEn nanCy & FaMily ParKin in MeMory oF gEorgE doErfLEr
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56 November 2012

cLaSSIFIedS
MERCHANdISE FoR SAlE
1997 37 REdUCEd SAFARI SERENGETI diesel pusher motorhome with slider ONLY 75,000 miles! Onan generator, W/D combo, Allison trans, levelers, convection oven, ice maker, vanity table, awnings, flatscreens, solar panels, oak cabinets, skylight shower, private commode, GPS, sleeper sofa, mirrored closets, back-up camera, auto steps, $35K obo, Lindy (310) 890-4235. 2000 HARlEy-dAVIdSoN RoAd KING. Beautiful Bike! 95-inch motor, includes seat back and chrome rack (10K in chrome), 16,000 miles. Asking $9,500. Also for sale, 2004 Honda XR650R, good condition. HR hop up kit, runs excellent. Asking $2,500. (909) 838-5929. LACO Captain, John Mark FS 135-C. 2002 ITASCA SUNCRUISER 32V. Class A luxury 8.1 liter gas motorhome. 5 speed Allison Transmission, 30,650 miles. Like new. Always garaged, new tires and batteries, 32 HDTV, basement A/C, $100s of extras included, surround sound, $47,500. Chris Hoglund Ret (805) 630-9427. 2008 AlFA 40 Gold with Super Slide. 400 Cummings, 27,400 miles. Always garaged. Walk-in pantry and master closet, 4 TVs, basement freezer, BBQ, Central Vacuum, king bed, garbage disposal, 2000 watt inverter, campchairs, awnings, much more. $140,000. Gary (Pete) Peterson, retired FS 90. (775) 782-7987 or (775) 7817968 (cell). garypete10@gmail.com MoToRCyClE GoGGlES, oIlS & lUBRICANTS - ALL Fire Fighters,Friends & Family receive 50% OFF EKS Brand Motorcycle Goggles and Accessories(www. eksbrand.com). Also Receive 50% OFFall Kal-Gard Oils and Lubricants (www.Kalgard.com). Fire Fighter must placeorder to receive discount. Please contact Steve Goldberg Email: steve-o1@ verizon.net PH: 661-492-4097

gated 2-car tandem parking, locked storage in garage area, pool, new kitchen appliances, refrigerator not included, freshly painted. All new carpet and flooring, $1750/mo, plus security deposit. Call FF/PM Bob Fogelman, Fire Station 70-B. (661) 510-5776.

enclosed. Now add the unsurpassed view of the largest lake in Oregon, (Klamath Lake) which is directly beneath the Pacific flyway, and your retirement is complete. However, if you want something to do, we are currently an operating Bed and Breakfast, the only one in Klamath Falls. $495,000. Jerry Klippness, LAPD 7649 and Helen Hall, mother of the Hall Boys, LAFD (805) 985-2982. klippnessbnb.com BEAUTIFUl, SINGlE lEVEl HoME available in Mill City, Oregon. Single owner, retired L.A. Fireman, now deceased. Quiet neighborhood on dead end street. Built among trees, gorgeous meadow behind, unequaled view of the Cascades. 3 Bdrm, 2 1/2 baths. Natural landscape with 150 yr. old Maple in the side yard. Plenty of room for RV, boat, trailer etc. Contact Judy Quillin, 503 559-8643; email: JudyQ@ equitygroup.com MLS#640292 BUIld yoUR dREAM HoME on beautiful San Juan Island in Washington State. 10 acres with views of water, neighboring islands and Mt. Baker. $550,000. Retired Capt II LAFD (360) 378-2190. Ask for Wendy. CoNdo FoR SAlE. BoCA RAToN, FloRIdA. 2 BD, 1.5 BA. Lakeview. End unit. Furnished. Clean pool. Close to Lyons Road. $29,000 OBO. Contact Mrs. George Allen (352) 637-4042 CUSToM loG HoME- Kings Canyon Sequoia Area. 4200 sq ft, 2 story, 3 bedroom/2.5 baths. Master bed has walk in closet w/French doors and deck. Large game room w/bar and wood burning stove. Huge gourmet kitchen w/six burner professional Garland range, SubZero freezer and refrigerator. Hard rock maple counters and maple cabinets. Large loft with library and office overlooking great room with vaulted ceilings and riverrock fireplace. Pella windows and doors. Hardwood floors throughout, tile in kitchen, laundry and baths. Central vac. Deck on three sides. 15 acres fenced. Tennis court, pool, 2 car garages, 40X60 metal bldg. Septic and 40 gpm well. $650,000. Contact Ray Oster (559) 338-2220 or email rsoster1@dishmail.net for more info and photos. EXCEPTIoNAl lAKE ARRoWHEAd HoME. Located in a secluded private community just steps from the lake, this 4 bdrm 3&1/2 bath spacious custom home has all the amenities to compliment the 4 season mountain living of Lake Arrowhead! Family living centered around the inviting quality-plus kitchen & great room with warm & cozy fireplace, to the large master suite featuring its own fireplace & 3

more beautifully decorated bdrms. for family & guests. A firemans dream garage with room for all the toys & an adjoining RV covered port that must be seen to appreciate. The landscaping & views from the decks surrounding this magnificent one of a kind home are an entertainers delight! Call Dick Alder at 909 553-2757, <r_alder@ yahoo.com> or Mt. Co. Realty at 909 337-2414 to view this special home. Offered at $695,000, visit our web-site at www.MCR.com FoR SAlE. 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo fully furnished in Barra de Navidad, Jalisco, Mexico. Short walk to small fishing village, beach, restaurants, etc. LAFD retired. (909) 392-8941. GREAT VACATIoN/FISHING HIdEAWAy - SEA oF CoRTEz, loRETo, BAJA. 2200 sq. ft. house. 3 levels. Attached small apartment. 1/2 block from marina & seafront. Buyer would hold title through 50 yr bank trust. $250K OBO. May consider trade for So Cal property. Rita Galvin 760-9453080. loVEly 2800 SQ FT 3 bedroom, 2 bath home on Marrowstone Island near Port Townsend, Washington. Sits on 4 plus partical wooded acres with Puget Sound. 230 foot waterfront view. Has barn for RV storage. City water, oil heat in floor. Past home of LAFD get together. Call Vonnie Rogers (360) 385-7544. MAMMoTH CoNdo - Cozy 2 bedrooms, 2 bath. Fully furnished, WIFI, 3 TVs, pool, spa, tennis, walk to shuttle. Old Mammoth area. Winter $115, Summer $90, plus maid $126. Includes linens. No pets, no smoking. Call (310) 540-4648. RIVER PARCElS. Three 20 acre Klammath River frontage parcels in beautiful Northern California- 30 miles from Oregon. Electricity and telephone available. Rarely used County-maintained road runs through. Very private. 6 miles from Happy Camp. Each parcel has more than 700 front feet of river. $195,000 - $295,000. Contact Troy Bonar, LAFD retired. PO Box 466, Happy Camp, CA 96039 or call (530) 493-2453 or fax (530) 4932589 or email: troy@sisqtel.net SKI THE SUMMIT! BIG BEAR, 4+2, 5 minutes from snow summit, downtown and the lake. Located in the desirable Fox Farm area. 2 story-upstairs 2+1, downstairs 2+1 turn key condition, ready to enjoy. Fully furnished. Investment Vacation or Retirement. $359,000 Call Therese (818) 216-4628 or theresewyman@msn.com

HoRSE PRoPERTy, lAKE VIEW TERRACE - Near FS24. 3 bedroom, 2 bath, newly remodeled kitchen with granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. Formal living room, plus family room. 3 pipe corrals, arena, 2 barns, trail access. Motor home and horse trailer parking. Gardener included. Available October. $2800/month. Eng. Ames (818) 257-4549. loVEly 110 yR. old HISToRIC HoUSE to share in San Pedros historic waterfront dist. Private bedroom with private full bathroom, kitchen, laundry, air conditioning, spacious back yard, sorry, no private parking, $700 month. Cindy 310 831-0926. THIS CHARMING SPACIoUS 2 BEdRooM HoME is centrally located in the heart of Encino. Features hardwood flooring throughout with a large master suite, bath, cathedral ceilings and walk-in closets. The upstairs can be separate with its own entrance. Downstairs is a bedroom, full bath and powder room. Big backyard, garage and additional parking for RV. $2500 for the above, or rent just the master suite, $1000, downstairs for $1500 a month. Call Tracy (818) 704-9592.

REAl ESTATE FoR SAlE

ATTN: FIREFIGHTERS ANd/oR PolICE oFFICERS: Are you thinking about retiring soon? Think about Klammath Falls, Oregon. Think about quiet, peaceful surroundings. Beautiful 100 foot tall pine trees, deer and fox roaming on your one (1) acre property. No graffiti on the buildings and very little traffic. And then think about a lovely 6 bedroom home with two (2) dining rooms, two (2) very large family rooms, an exercise room, an office and an oversized kitchen, fit for a gourmet chef. All this plus more (2 lofts a wet bar, a hot tub, 136 feet of decking around the house, leading to a large patio off the master bedroom. The home has an attached 2 car garage, a detached 1 car garage and a 24 by 40 RV parking garage completely

REAl ESTATE FoR RENT

CoNdo FoR RENT IN ENCINo. 2 bd, 2 ba, over 1100 sq ft., lots of closet space, security building,

November 2012 57

THE lAST BEST PlACE. Own a piece of Montana. Panoramic views of Flathead Lake. 3 acres with a great building site. Adjacent to forested public land. Access to fishing , summer water sports and winter skiing. Owned by retired LAFD. Listed with Riverbend Realty. Keith at 406-837-1501. www. riverbendbigfork.com WATER ANd MoUNTAIN VIEW HoME near Mutiny Bay on Whidbey Island, Washington State. Custom 4 bedroom/2.75 bath home w/daylight basement on 7+ acres. Views of Mutiny Bay, shipping lanes, Olympic Mountains and sunsets. Turn-key opportunity w/new exterior paint; hardwood Pergo floors; Corian countertops and full landscaping. Two car attached garage PLUS a 3-bay detached garage and shop. Convenient access to sany Mutiny Bay Beach. $552,000. Seller is retired fire inspector. Tom Jensen, agent (425) 359-8598.

CRANE SERVICE All kinds of lifts - A/C Units, Spas, Construction, Beams, Poles, Appliances, Man Baskets available. Insured and bonded. Leonard Campbell Owner/Operator (818) 340-8907 dJ FoR All oCCASIoNS - You name it, I play it!! Call Frank (818) 554-7273. Serving San Fernando Valley over 20 years! Firefighters are my family. doES ANyTHING BoTHER yoU? Anything at all? Mental, emotional or physical? Dr. Bob Price, psychotherapist. LAFD retired, has developed a model that puts the fire out fast. It allows you to overcome almost anything that bothers you rather quickly. My book, Speed Healing, & DVD is available at www.pricepartsmodel.com. Telephone sessions granted quickly. Call for telephone appointment. (619) 461-9527 dRyWAll SERVICE, new construction, remodel, repair, acoustic ceilings removed. All types of textures. Licensed, bonded and insured. Gregg Avery, F.S. 66 A residence (805) 494-9037. FIREFIGHTERS TAXES - Are you getting the most from your tax returns? I am a wife of a firefighter and specialize in their returns, with 60% of my clients being firefighter families. Taxes done at you convenience; my office or by phone. Available year-round. TaxPro, Barbara Ravitz, 661-257-7606. FIREFIGHTER dISCoUNTS. At Farmers Insurance Group, I can assist you in deciding what options best meet your insurance needs. Free competitive quotes available for homeowners, auto, life, RVs, boats motorcycles and more. As a former LAFD and LAPD Commissioner, and coming from a family of firefighters (3 brothers and 1 nephew), I understand your need for an agent that can make your life a little easier. For a free quote, please call the Corina Alarcon Insurance Agency at (818) 263-1723. FIREMAN dESIGN & lANdSCAPE. Free design and estimate. Landscape/irrigation/sod/stamped concrete/concrete foundations/patio covers/turf/rockscape. I will beat all written estimates. Serving all areas. LAFD 96-B Eric Mendoza. (760) 221-1912 cell. (661) 4802202 office. www.firemanlandscape.com Lic#857078. Insured and bonded. GARAGE dooR INSTAllATIoN & SERVICE. Garage doors and openers. Need to replace your broken springs? or does your door need repair, even replaced? We do it all from new product to repairing old. Call (661) 860-4563 Grassroots Garage Doors, Inc. Lic# 950020. Son of 35 year veteran fireman.

ITS TAX TIME AGAIN! Specializingin fire, police and paramedic returns. Also preparing partnership returns, payroll and sales tax reports. With 30 years experience in taxes and accounting. Call early for your appointment around your schedule. Robert Sanchez- LAFD retired. (818) 367-7017. Cell (818) 216-1040. REAl ESTATE FINANCING. Interest rates are at All-Time-Lows. Refinance & Purchase Loans, Investment/Second Home Loans/ Equity Lines/2nd Trust Deeds, No Points/No Fees Loans, VA, FHA, Conventional Loans, Lending in many other states. Mortgage lending with exceptional customer service, integrity, strength and experience. For your Free Mortgage Analysis, call (714) 469-8900. Jay Trementozzi, Mortgage Banker. DRE# 01113819, NMLS# 241591. REAl ESTATE SERVICES - Start a new life in the gorgeous communities of Temecula and Murrieta. Top rated schools, world renowned wineries, numerous golf courses, lakes, shopping and a great family atmosphere. Located 78 miles from HQ between Los Angeles and San Diego. Call Mike Utley at (951) 775-8491 (LAFD Retired). REBECCA MARTIN lANdSCAPE. Architectural landscape design and installation. A full service design/build landscape firm that creates unique custom exterior environments that will increase the value of your home and bring you years of outdoor enjoyment. Rebecca Martin, LAFD wife. (818) 216-3637. Lic# 936577. rebeccamartinlandscape@gmail.com TAX AlERT FoR FIREFIGHTERS Dont lose thousands of dollars during your professional career to the IRS! Let HEWITT FINANCIAL GROUP, the specialists in firefighter tax services, prepare your tax return and review your prior years tax returns. We specialize in tax planning and preparation for firefighters. We also offer FREE REVIEW of your last four years of tax returns. Call us today at (800) 573-4829 or visit our website at www.alhewitt.com WINdoWS & PATIo dooRS - vinyl replacement windows & Patio doors. I also carry aluminum, wood and entry door systems. Rick Brandelli, Capt. LACoFD, FS 8-C (800) 667-6676. www.GeeWindows.com

a Monthly! $149 and up ALL INCLUSIVE! Join our Travel Club! Go to: www.WvMovie.com or YouTube JoeTraveler and Cabo Dreamtrip (661) 993-9476 call/ text firemedic311@gmail.com FF/PM Peter Mills 100-A 4 BEdRooMS, 4 BATHS, Game Room, 3000 sq. ft. upscale Big Bear Lake cabin. Pool table, foosball, darts, ping-pong, gas BBQ. Private road close to lake, Village. Walk to Snow Summit, great for summer. Accommodates 13. Until November: Midweek-$250; Weekends: $295. For summer specials or holiday/winter rates call (949) 683-3028. steps2summit.com BEACH FRoNT SUNSET BEACH oAHU, HAWAII - North Shore at Sunset Beach. Two separate homes 2+ den, 2ba, sleeps 8. $225 per day and 2br + 1ba, sleeps 6. $200 per day! Both share large tropical yard. View 7 surf breaks from backyards to pipeline. Contact Betty at (808) 372-7558 or Barker LAFD retired (805) 985-4001. BIG BEAR CABIN - All season, restful views from decks. Two story, sleeps 6, half mile to lake, two plus miles to slopes. Fireplace/Wood, cable TV/DVD/VCR. Full kitchen, completely furnished except linens. Pets ok. $95/$105 (two day minimum). $550/$600 a week, Beep or Donna Schaffer 1+(760) 723-1475. www.schaffercabin.com BIG BEAR CABIN. 2 bedroom, 2 bath, 2 story. Sleeps 8. Near ski slopes & lake. Fireplace/wood, cable TV, DVD,VCR, full kitchen. Completely furnished. $85/$95 per night. Minimum 2 nights. Holidays extra. Weekly available. All Season. Sheri (909) 851-1094 cell or (760) 948-2844 home. BIG BEAR lAKES FINESTDeluxe lakeside townhouse, 2 bedrooms, 3 baths, 2 cable TVs, HBO, DVD, WiFi, 2 wood burning fireplaces, laundry room, tennis court, indoor pool, sauna, spa, boat dock. Fully equipped, including all linens. Sleeps 6. 310-541-8311 or email cindy14@cox.net BIG BEAR VINTAGE CABIN. 2 minute walk to village. 5 minute drive to both slopes. Lake view. 2 bed, 1 bath, sleeps 6. Contact: bigbearescapes.com/pikes-place Owned by LAFD member. BUllHEAd/lAUGHlIN. Large new Custom 3 bedroom/2 bath home 4 minutes from the casinos and close to Katherines Landing. Quiet culde-sac. All amenities. Everything is new. 60 TV in living room. TVs in all bedrooms. Large formal dining room. BBQ and large patio overlooking the mountains. 35 ft X 3-1/2 car garage w/ gym equipment. Wireless internet

SERVICES
A VETERAN FoR HIRE - Brush clearance, clean ups, grading, rototill, new lawns, tree and shrub shaping, stump removals, concrete, asphalt and dirt removal, trench footings, auger holes and more! Full line of equipment. Thanks! Larry (818) 489-5126 BoAT & PWC SToRAGE Firemens discount. 10% off first months rent & no deposit required. Winter rates available. Located on the Colorado River, close to launch ramps. All Seasons Storage 800 North K St., Needles, CA 92363. (760) 326-2001. BUIldING PlANS. Residential: patios, decks, additions/remodeling, repairs, new construction, design. Commercial: tennant improvement, ADA compliances and more. George Lavallee (805) 5321905 office. cre8iveanswers@ hotmail.com CHooSE yoUR dREAM CRUISE - Princess Cruises, Royal Caribean, Holland American, Carnival and more... 3 to 21 day getaways to Alaska, Hawaii, The Bahamas and many other exciting destinations. Call Patricia at (661) 265-9440 or toll free at (877) 7HISEAS, or email pliefeld@qnet. com wife of LAFD Mechanic, sister of LAFD Captain. CRAIG SANFoRd HEATING & 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

VACATIoN RENTAlS
ARE yoU IN NEEd oF A VACATIoN? We have $49-$79 Cruises

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w/ on site computer. $150 per night + $75 cleaning fee. No smoking or pets please. Scott at 805-208-1598 or h2oratscott@aol.com. CATAlINA BEACH CoTTAGE - 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, one block to beach, view, fully equipped housekeeping unit. Marci (818) 347-6783 or Clarence (310) 510-2721. dElUXE lAKESIdE ToWN HoME. 2 bedrooms, 3 baths, 2 fireplaces, washer, dryer, gas barbeque. Indoor pool, sauna, Jacuzzi, locker room with shower. Tennis court, boat dock, cable TV, HBO. Fully furnished including linens. 3 miles from Snow Summit. Sleeps 6 max. (310) 541-8311 dESERT CoNdo Rancho Mirage (near Palm Springs), 2 bedrooms, 2 bath, fully furnished condo & WiFi Internet. Also 2 bedroom and den, 2 bath, TV and VCR, pools, spas, tennis courts, gated community. From $110 per night. No pets or smoking. Barbara (626) 798-2484. FoRMER l.A. FIREFIGHTER and Family offering gorgeous Baja Mexico Property for rent. Coastside Gated Community with pool/ spa, surfing, and loads of fun. 4 Bedrooms, 4 Bathrooms. Fully Equipped Kitchen. Call Kathy at 510-468-5003 for more information. Go to: lasgaviotas.com/Hse_toscana.htm for pictures, availability calendar, and information on the area. GolFERS-BoATERS-oTHERS! SAVE $$$ oN HoTEl RATES!! Luxury condo rental - Direct from Owner. One bedroom two bath luxury condo located in Mexican resort area of Nuevo Vallarta, just 15 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta Intl Airport. Unit is part of Grand Marina Villas, part of the Paradise Village Hotel complex, and includes use of 18 hole El Tigre Golf Course. Weekly or monthly rates. For info: Web site: homepage.mac.com/edynichols e-mails: edynichols@mac.com or (310) 395-7804. HAVASU lANdING - Waterfront on Lake Havasu. 3 bedroom, 3 bath. Boat mooring out front. Fully furnished. Direct TV, WiFi, BBQ, Casino, new grocery/meat market. No pets/smoking (310) 418-1577. JUNE lAKE CABIN - Scenic 2br/2ba cozy, cabin with views. 5 minutes from Fishing and Skiing. Fully furnished. Wood Deck, Sleeps 8, wood burning stove, full kitchen, cable Tv/Dvd, stereo, phone. Detached garage/room for boat. Call for summer/winter rates. Cleaning fee applies. Jeff Easton 105-A, (805)-217-5602 junebound@gmail.com

KAPAlUA, MAUI. Luxurious ocean view Kapalua Ridge 1 and 2 bedroom villas from $145/$250, 7th night FREE. Fully equipped with washer/dryer, Hi speed internet, Wi-Fi, cable TV, free resort shuttle, minutes from ocean. Features 3 white sand beaches including BEST BEACH in the world, Kapalua Bay Beach, 100 miles of hiking trails, 2 golf courses with great discounts, 10 tennis courts, zip lines, 2 spas, golf academy, horseback riding, snorkeling, swimming, surfing, kayaking, shops, restaurants. Contact Terry or Diane @ 800-326-MAUI (6284). www. kapaluavacations.com/the_ridge. asp or email info@kapaluavacations.com lAKE ARRoWHEAd Blue Jay cabin charming two-story with creek, large deck, two baths, complete kitchen, TV,VCR/DVD, fireplace, washer and dryer, walk to Blue Jay Village. Sleeps 6. $90/ night. NO PETS! Bruce or Sue Froude, (805) 498-8542. lAKE HAVASU BEACH FRoNT. Located at HAVASU LANDING RESORT a gated community on the California side of Lake Havasu. Swim, Ski or fish from the front yard. Buoys in front of home for overnight boat(s) tie-ups. No need to launch boat each day. Walking distance to a CASINO, restaurants and grocery store. Adjacent to miles of off-road desert trails, great for ATVs, 4 wheelers and Motorcycles. Beautiful landscaping with a lawn from the home to the lake. Covered patio with furniture and a gas BBQ. Four bedrooms with beds for 10.Two full bathrooms. Check Craigslist for pic. $350. Per night 10% discount for a week. For Reservations call Bud @ 818 352-4422 lAKE HAVASU BEAUTy FoR RENT - 3 bdrm, 2 bath, 1600 sq.ft. Fully furnished with all amenitiesLaundry & BBQ. 13,000 sq.ft. lot. 3 car boat-deep garage. 3 miles from launch ramp. Close to downtown shops & restaurants. View of the lake. Quiet street in good neighborhood. No pets. No smoking. Snowbird rates. Call Mike (661) 510-6246 lAKE HAVASU CITy. New Custom 3 bedroom/2 bath home on lake side of Hwy 95 north side of town. Quiet street. All the amentities. 60 TV in living room. TVs in all bedrooms. Wireless internet with on site computer. BBQ on large patio. Swimming pool. Near marinas and restaurants. $150 per night. $85 cleaning fee. No smoking or pets please. Scott at 805-208-1598 or h2oratscott@aol.com.

lAKE HAVASU HoME for rent. Built in 2004. 1800 square feet, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths. Newly/fully furnished w/all amenities of home. Large garage 20x32 with tall doors. Large area for guest parking. Located less than a mile from lake on a quiet cul-de-sac! RV hookups. Ask for FF discount. Call Ryan Penrod (310) 804-1801 or Nicole (909) 263-8177. lAKE HAVASU HoME - Beautiful 3 bed, 2 bath home that sleeps 8. Lake view, RV access, boat parking, everything is new. Quiet street in great neighborhood, just minutes from London Bridge. Call John for pricing at (323) 449-4473. Snow-bird rates and firemen discount available. lAKE HAVASU Landing California. 3 bedroom, 2 bath, wifi, DirecTV, BBQ, full laundry, slip-in marina included, just steps away. 180 degree view of lake and your boat in slip. Huge covered patio. No pets. No smoking. Larry Mc Andress ret 112A (714) 963-9344 or (714) 393-1464. lAKE HAVASU VACATIoN HoMES for rent. Each fully furnished with all amenities of home. Every home has a lake view, pool, RV access, boat parking, ample guest parking and sleep up to 8 people. Check out our website @ werenthavasu.com or call (928) 855-5848 or (661) 212-3191. lAKE NACIMIENTo. Oak Shores gated community. 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath, large loft. 3 minute drive to main marina in Oak Shores. Large driveway. Fully equipped kitchen, BBQ, washer/dryer, TV/DVD. No cable. No pets/smoking. $165.00/ night. Call Ben (805) 444-2264. lAKE TAHoE GETAWAy 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with all of the amenities complete kitchen, washer/ dryer, TV/ VCR. Quiet neighborhood near the lake, casinos and ski slopes. Call for rates. Call Cal or Linda @ (805) 584-2718. www.sltgetaway.com lAKE PoWEll HoUSEBoAT. 68 Sumerset. 2 staterooms, 2 cuddy cabins, 2 baths. Will sleep 10 to 12. 2 ref. fully equipped kitchen, BBQ, TV, DVD, Twin A/C. Party top, flybridge, V8 drives, 12 KW ge., 100 gal. aux. fuel tank with pump. Dan Coyle (805) 494-8854. lA QUINTA - Gated community, fully furnished deluxe home, three bedrooms, three baths on the 10th fairway of the Dunes Golf Course in La Quinta Country Club. Two car garage, large patio with barbecue. No pets, no smoking. $200/night - 2 week minimum, plus refundable security deposit. Call (323) 254-3874

MAMMoTH CoNdo-CHAMoNIX. 2 bedroom & large loft, 3 full baths, sleeps 8. 5 minute walk to Canyon Lodge. Fully furnished, TVs, VCR/ DVD, pool, spa, rec room, sauna, linens included. Winter $175, $195-weekdays/holidays; summer $125, plus cleaning. No smoking; no pets. Craig Yoder (909) 9483659. MAMMoTH CoNdo Cozy 2 bedrooms, 2 bath. Fully furnished, WIFI, 3 TVs, pool, spa, tennis, walk to shuttle, Old Mammoth area. Winter $115, Summer $90, plus maid $126. Includes linens. No pets, no smoking. Call (310) 540-4648. MAMMoTH CoNdo NEXT To THE GoNdolA VIllAGE Fully furnished, three bedroom, two bath with towels and linens, fully stocked kitchen, internet and cable TV, pool and Jacuzzi. Walk to the gondola, shops, restaurants and ski in on the new comeback trail. Parking at the front door. Winter: $225/night. Summer $150/night. Holidays $275/ night. Cleaning is included. Call Mike Whitehouse, Retired, 805-987-6122, email: btkwhitey@yahoo.com or Bruce Galien, Retired, 661-645-7448, email: luvbaja2@aol.com MAMMoTH CoNdo Fully furnished, 2 bedroom, 2 bath, sleeps 6. Close to Canyon Lodge, pool, spa, recreation room, laundry facilities, condo has been beautifully remodeled, photos available, $200 a night winter - $125 a night summer + $150 cleaning fee. Call for holiday pricing. Joe Angiuli, South Division (626) 497-5083. MAMMoTH CoNdo - Fully furnished, 1 bdrm, loft, 1 1/2 baths, sleeps 4. On shuttle route. All amenities: Sauna, Pool, laundry on premises. Fall/Winter prices. $100/ night. Spring/Summer $85/night. One time $70 cleaning fee. No smoking, no pets, contact: Julian Edwards (909) 573-3815 MAMMoTH - 1 bedroom Summit condo, sleeps 6. Convenient underground garage parking, jacuzzis, gym (pool, tennis in summertime), shuttle right outside! Across from chair 15. Winter $110 per night, Summer $80 per night plus $65 cleaning fee per stay. All linens included. Drew or Nancy Oliphant (661) 513-2000. MAMMoTH CoNdo - MAMMoTH ESTATES, 4BR/3BA, fully furnished, linens, full kitchen, TV/ DVD, stereo, fireplace, pool , jacuzzi, sauna. 2 blocks from gondola village. 1 block to ski shuttle. Winter $330/night, Summer $215/night, plus cleaning. Includes city bed tax. No pets, no smoking, sleeps 8. Dory Jones (310) 918-0631 or Kelly Corcoran (310) 619-5355.

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MAMMoTH CoNdo - 2 bdrm, 2 bath, 2 TVs, phone, garage, pool, jacuzzi, fully furnished - exept linens. Near shuttle/chair 15. Winter $125/night. Weekends and Holidays $110 midweek. Summer $95/night. $495/week. No smoking. No pets. Jim Johnson (818) 9927564, FS 80C. MAMMoTH CoNdo - Clean 1 bedroom, 2 bath. Sleeps 6. Walk to Village and Gondola. Shuttle out front. Close to Canyon Lodge. Fully furnished, spa, ski locker, underground parking and wireless. Midweek special. No pets. No smoking. $120 winter, $90 summer. $65 cleaning fee, includes linens. Jeff or Tonya Clemens (805) 4998160. MAMMoTH CoNdo - Sierra Manors Sleeps 7. 3 bedroom 2 1/2 bath. Fully furnished except linens. 2 TVs/ VCR/DVD, stereo/CD. Dishwasher, microwave, sauna, jacuzzi, pool. No smoking/No Pets. Shuttle at door. Winter $155/night, Summer $100/ night, Plus $80 cleaning fee and City Bed Tax. Brian & Karen Salvage LAFD Retired (805) 499-7752. MAMMoTH lAKES - One bedroom, extremely charming wildflower condo. Full amenities, close to shuttle. Antiques, art, satellite TV, fireplace. Sleeps 4. Winter $110, Summer $85 plus cleaning fees. Call (818) 371-6722 Email: shakesong@aol.com MAMMoTH SKI & RACQUET: Southwestern decor. Sleeps 4. King bed. Full Kitchen, TV, VCR, DVD. Garage parking. 5 min walk to Canyon Lodge. Winter $155/nite, $175 Fri, Sat, & Holidays; Summer $100/nite. 2 nite min. addl nites less. Jeff & Lisa Moir. LAFD Air Ops (661) 254-5788 MAMMoTH CoNdo Wildflower, 1 bedroom sleeps 4, king bed and queen sofa bed. Fully furnished, fireplace, dishwasher, stereo, TV/ DVD, phone, spa, sauna, pool and tennis court. Linens and cleaning fee. On shuttle route. Winter rate $100/night, summer rate $70/night. Mike Greenup (805) 583-8239 or cell (805) 338-9955. MAMMoTH SKI & RACQUET: Walk to Canyon Lodge. Studio loft sleeps 4. Queen beds, full kitchen, 2 baths, garage parking, 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@juno.com or (213) 399-6534. MAMMoTH. SKI IN - SKI oUT at lift 15, 2 bedroom including master suite, 2 bath condo. TV/DVD in living room. Good sound system. Gym, spa, fireplace, very roomy,

underground parking, tennis courts, pools, and outside BBQ area. (310) 476-4784. Email: barbarawinters@yahoo.com or visit website: www.mammothrental.com MAUI BEACH FRoNT CoNdo oN NAPIlI BAy - 50 from water. Studios and 1 bdrm. Luxury furnishings + full kitchen. All the amenities! Mauis best snorkeling/beach. All island activities & Kapalua within 4 minutes. 5-day minimum, from $135 per night (regularly $310 night). Call Sherrie or Bill for info/reservations (805) 530-0007 or (800) 889-8641 tollfree or email: pmimaui@aol.com or visit: www.napilibaymaui.com MAUI CoNdo 1 ANd 2 BEdRooMS. Centrally located on beautiful Maalaea Bay. Excellent swimming and snorkeling; white sandy beach. Minutes from golf, tennis, fishing, shopping, airport and resort areas. Marsha Smith or Jeanne McJannet. Toll free (800) 367-6084. www.maalaeabay.com MAUIS MoST BEAUTIFUl BEACH - Napili Bay. Beautiful furnished condo with kitchen and daily maid service. 15% discount off already lowest prices in the area. Don Sprenger (949) 548-5659 or (800) 336-2185. NICARAGUA SURF CoNdo Enjoy UNREAL surf in a FRIENDLY SAFE COUNTRY. Golf a new course and hang out by the pool. Walking distance to beach. 3 bedroom 2 bath. See for yourself at: nicasurfnturf.com. Contact Chris Hart (714) 742-3325 or email: Chrismhart22@verizon.net oAHU, HAWAII NoRTH SHoRE at Sunset Beach. Two ocean front houses on large tropical yard. 2 bedroom and den, two baths and 2 bedroom, 1 bath. Each looking at the sunset break. Completely furnished. Contact Betty Suratt regarding Barker Houses (805) 985-4001 or (808) 372-7558. oXNARd CA - SIlVER STRANd BEACH - Beach house vacation rental. 3 story, fully furnished 3br/2ba main house+1br/1ba guest house, sleeps 8-12. Linens included, wireless internet, cable tv/ dvd, washer/dryer, bbq, ping-pong, bikes, boogie boards, beach chairs, large decks, and views. 1 small block to beach. (805) 241-7221 www.BeachHouseOxnard.com www.VRBO.com/111325 PAlM dESERT. 3 bedroom, 2 bath. Fully furnished. All new. Direct TV and WiFi all bedrooms. Private patio with BBQ. Private 60 unit complex with 2 pools, 2 jaccuzzis, 2 tennis courts. Near College of the Desert. One level. (310) 418-1577.

PGA WEST (lA QUINTA) TPC STAdIUM GolF CoURSE CoNdo. Luxurious 3+2 lake front condo on the 11th green of the world famous Stadium Course. Gated, community pool & spa, 4 TVs/cable/dvd, washer/dryer, BBQ, garage, no smoking or pets please. $150/night w/6 night min. + cleaning. Seasonal/extended stay discounts. Buzz - LAFD (949) 3227979 PGAWestVacation.com RANCHo MIRAGE 2-2, gated complex, double garage, tennis, pools, spa, bikes, cable tv/vcr, microwave, bbq, washer/dryer, decorator furnished. Close to golf, restaurants, and shops. $90/night. Margo Idol (805) 498-1513 or Ruth (805) 498-4616. RoSARITo BEACH Cottage. Charming 2 br./2 ba beach cottage (not a condo) located in the Quinta Del Mar project approximately 25 miles south of San Diego. 24-hour security, lg. patio w/ocean view, bbq, fireplace, cable TV, microwave, 3 pools, jacuzzi, tennis, horses, 2 rest. (music and dancing), ride the waves, off-track betting, golf nearby. 2-day min, $95 day. Midweek/weekly rates available. Photos and info @ Lockhart (619) 429-4060. choice1.com/rosaritobeachcottage.htm SAN ClEMENTE BEACH HoUSE - Two bedroom fully furnished private home. Sleeps 6 laundry, wireless internet, tv/dvd, movie channels. Enough off street parking for 4 SUVs, large enclosed backyard, 3 minute walk to pier. 5 minute walk to downtown, pet friendly. David Laub, LACOFD (949) 306-5532 or dlaub@aol.com or vrbo.com/93330 SAN ClEMENTE BEACH. This stylish 1 bedroom/1bath rental is only 200 yards from the beach and a 10-minute walk to the pier or downtown. The unit is beautifully decorated and has all the comforts of home. Includes large plasma in living room and smaller TV in bedroom. See more info and photos @ VRBO.com/344173. Rates: Oct - Apr $150/night (2 night min.) weekly $850. May - Sept $200/ night (2 night min.) weekly $1150. Non refundable cleaning fee $100. Call Ron or Kathy (949) 831-7693 or email klm318@cox.net SKI-IN/oUT 2 bEDROOM, 2 bath across from Eagle express chairlift (CHAIR 15). Has TV in Living room and Bedroom, very spacious unit, fireplace, dining area, Gym, spa includes jacuzzi & sauna. Exterior of complex totally refurbished. Underground parking. www.mammothrental.com. (310) 476-4784. SKI THE GREATEST SNoW oN EARTH In Park City, Utah and avoid the 5 hour grueling drive

to Mammoth. 2 bedroom/2 bath. Tri-level townhome. Located a short drive to three world-class ski resorts. (Deer Valley, PC Mountain Resort, The Canyons) $1100/week - $1600/ Holiday. Call Ron (310) 415-6788 SoUTH lAKE TAHoE Romantic Chalet Family getaway. 3 bed/2 bath plus loft. Sleeps 810. Cable TV, washer/dryer, microwave, woodburning stove. 7 minutes to casinos and Heavenly. Located in Tahoe Paradise. Call Shawn or Rose Agnew at (661) 250-9907 or (661) 476-6288. VACATIoN RENTAl - So Lake Tahoe, 3 Bd 2 Ba home with all amenities. Close to Lake, Casinos and Ski Slopes $650 wk or $130 nt $100 Cleaning. www. SLTgetaway.com. Call Cal or Linda @ 805 584-2718 or email LSchlotzhauer@gmail.com

VACATIoN VEHIClES
2003 34 ITASCA SUNCRUISER By WINNEBAGo. 2 slides, 8.1 Vortec Banks powered 9+ MPG. 37,000 miles. New tires, upgrades, & many extras. Garage stored like new. Qualifies as a 2nd home. $52,000. Norm (928) 855-1074. AMERICA TRAVElER RV RENTAlS - We rent motor homes and travel trailers. Special discount for Fire and Police. Check out our sales department. (661) 273-7479. MoToR HoMES FoR RENT: Several 2006 Class A 32 Foot Motor Homes, with Double Slide Outs, Fully Loaded, Free Housekeeping Kit, Camping Kit, Discount Prices Starting at $150.00 to $180.00 per night. Serving family & friends of LAPD , LASD, IPD, OXPD, OX Fire, LA CO., LA City, Ski Clubs ask for our 25% off weekly rental rates. Visit us at www.so-calrv. com or call 661-714-7689 or 661297-2398. ALSO AVAILABLE BIG BEAR CABINS, 3 bedroom 2 bath with pool tables & spas. PLEASE CALL FOR MORE DETAILS.

WANTEd
WANTEd: ENGINEER To GUARANTEE XMAS 12/25/2012 for VC 24 at beautiful Fire Station 8 in Porter Ranch. Contact Brian Bacarella Fire Station 8-B. (818) 756-8668 Station or (805) 390-2058 cell.

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fire from an exploded propane tank truck in Van nuys threatened the commercial center at oxnard and sepulveda Blvds. but some 70 firemen from 12 companies got the blaze under control shortly after midnight. a witness said the truck had pulled into the butane storage yard when it burst into flames. flames climbed 40 feet into the air and threatened to ignite butane storage tanks nearby. the two-alarm blaze was brought under control about 45 minutes after the explosion occurred at 11:15 p.m. cause of the explosion was undetermined. no injuries were reported.

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Los Angeles Firemens Relief Association 815 Colorado Blvd FL 4 Los Angeles CA 90041