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 VOL. XCVIII APRIL 2022 NO. 8

• FEATURES •
Buzzard Bait
Celebrating 25 years! • .............................................................06

Overtime
Too Much? • ...................................................................................09

Special Commendation
FF/PM Qualley & FF Stigger • ....................................................11

• CONTENTS •
President’s Message • ...........................................................................05
Battalion News • ....................................................................................13
Retirement Dinner Announcements • ...................................................40
Old is New
A New Helmet is Here • ....................................................................41
The Station Fridge • ..............................................................................42
The Coasters
My Hawaii Trip • ................................................................................45
Memorials • ...........................................................................................46
Retired Guy
A Bird in the Hand • ............................................................................47
The US Police & Fire Championship • ..................................................49
LAFRA Mail • .........................................................................................50
CEO Corner
2021 Annual Report • ........................................................................53
LAFD History
Nelson’s Women’s Apparel Fire • .......................................................54
Minutes of the Board of Trustees • ........................................................56
Classifieds • ...........................................................................................58
Tailboard
Porter Ranch Stripmall • ....................................................................61

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

COPYRIGHT © 2022
Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association.
No material may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher.

2 • April 2022
 On the cover: Major Emergency Fire - Downtown LA. Photo | Chris Conkle

Photo Inset: Firefighters Battle Major Emergency Fire in Downtown Los Angeles. Photo | Chris Conkle

April 2022 • 3
 FIREMEN’S GRAPEVINE
owned and published by the
Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association
7470 N Figueroa Street, Los angeles CA 90041

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

PSO’s
Nicholas Prange, Margaret Stewart, Brian Humphrey

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Art Sorrentino, Deborah Lew, Tom Brennan, Mark Khitikian, Bonnie Lopez

PHOTOGRAPHERS
Gary Apodaca, David Blaire, Brandon Buckley, Chris Eckenrode, 564 Fire, Greg
Doyle, Harry Garvin, Steve Gentry, Yvonne Griffin, Kevin Johnson, Justin Johnson,
Gavin Kaufman, Rick McClure, Mike Meadows, Kyle Rausch, Jacob Salzman,
Peter Sanders, Erik Scott, Adam VanGerpen, Zak Holman

LOS ANGELES FIREMEN’S RELIEF ASSOCIATION

Jeff Cawdrey..........................................................President
Chris Stine .....................................................Vice-President
Jim Dolan & Steve Ruda ...............................Community Affairs Liaisons

BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Brian Wall JD Fox Kenny Breskin
Chris Bustamante Jeff Halloran Mike Sailhamer
Craig White Jim Duffy Rick Godinez
Danny Wu Joe Vigil Steve Berkery
Frank Aguirre John Jacobsen Steve Tufts
Gayle Sonoda John Marasco Tim Freeman Jr.
Henry Gasbarri Juan Albarran Tyler Tomich

CHAPLAINS
To contact a chaplain, please call Senior Chaplain, Tim Werle at
(213) 797-2404 or the MFC Floor Captain at (213) 576-8920

Kevin Smith..........................Chaplain Tim Werle.............................Chaplain

Danny Leon..........................Chaplain Mark R. Wolfe.....................Chaplain
George A. Negrete...............Chaplain Jesus Pasos.........................Chaplain
Daniel Lee............................Chaplain Rick Godinez........................Chaplain

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

LAFRA MANAGEMENT
Todd Layfer • Executive Director..............................(323) 259-5243
Adriana Faust • Human Resources Director...............(323) 259-5247
Liberty Unciano • Controller/Treasurer..................(323) 259-5225
Bob Dillon • Operations Manager.............................(323) 259-5233
Marlene Casillas • Development & Marketing Director(323) 259-5217

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

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

4 • April 2022
 April is the first Open Enrollment period of the year for
the LAFRA PPO Medical and Kaiser plans. Open enrollment
will occur this month for coverage effective July 1, 2022. This is
the period of time for you to make any needed changes such as
adding or deleting dependents, and to switch into the best medical
plan available to LAFD members and their families. If you do not
apply or make the necessary changes during this Open Enroll-
ment period in April, you will have to wait until October’s Open
Enrollment period which will become effective January 1st, 2023
unless you have an IRS qualifying event.
The Medical Committee and Full Board approved the
2022 plan renewal at our March Board meeting. The retiree
rates for the PPO plan renewal for will remain flat, and for active
members, an increase will be required. LAFRA’s Kaiser option
for active and early retirees requires an increase in plan renewal
which will could cause the monthly out of pocket to increase as
well, while members on Medicare who are enrolled in LAFRA’s
Kaiser plan will see a minimal decrease in plan renewal effec-
tive July 1st, 2022. Take the time to review the Open Enrollment
materials and plan enhancements in effect this July.
As I write this article, we do not have any definitive medi-
cal subsidy determination this fiscal year. With the extension of
our active MOU through June of 2024, currently active members
do not have an increase in health subsidy this July to offset any
increase in out-of-pocket costs for members with a family rate.
Per the MOU language on subsidy, in January 2022 and again
in January 2023, UFLAC and the City will meet and confer to
establish the monthly subsidy amount for the next fiscal year be-
ginning July 1st. While UFLAC continues the great work of bar-
gaining on our behalf, we will provide the updated costs for the
active population on our medical plans as soon as any subsidy
determination and approval takes place.
Secondly, as mentioned last month, I presented the medi-
cal plans renewal to the Los Angeles Fire Police Pension board on
March 3rd, 2022, to determine “Suitability” as a board approved
plan. LAFRA has moved up this presentation timeline hoping
to have a determination on the Non-Medicare subsidy for early
retiree members prior to our Open Enrollment materials being
sent out to the membership. Unfortunately for all retirees, this
discussion will not take place on the Non-Medicare subsidy until
at least the April 1st board meeting. The medical plans renewal
has been placed on the March 16th, 2022 agenda for approval.
Last month, you received a Member Summary Report or
(RAP SHEET). Believe it or not, we sent this to you on purpose
prior to the Open Enrollment period so that you could make the
necessary changes and jog your memory as to who your benefi-
ciaries and dependents are. The Member Summary Report will
provide you with all of the current information that LAFRA has
on file. Please take the time to read it and make the necessary
changes. In the RELIEF box, the sheet will also show your cur-
rent Relief dues, and if you are enrolled in the Life and Accident
Plan, or if you have purchased additional Long-Term Care Insur-
ance, your total Code 45 monthly deductions. The last line-item
in that box is what, if any, you are contributing to Widows, Or-
phans and Disabled Firefighters. If you aren’t currently contribut-
ing, please consider it. If you are, please consider an increased
amount.
Chief Terrazas, congratulations on your retirement! Your
contributions to the LAFD over the last 40 years exemplify the
Service, Professionalism, Integrity, Respect, Innovation, and
Trust you asked from all of us. I truly appreciate the time you set
aside out of your busy schedule to attend LAFRA events in sup-
port of our Widow’s Orphans & Disabled Firefighters. On behalf
of our Board of Trustees we hope you have a long and healthy
retirement.
Chief Crowley, LAFRA would like to congratulate you as
well on your confirmation by the Los Angeles City Council to
be the next Chief to lead the Los Angeles Fire Department. We
look forward to working with you and hopefully seeing you at our
events.
Be safe out there!
150 250 350
Jeff J. Cawdrey
323.259.5202
president@lafra.org
April 2022 • 5
 During the Martin Luther King
weekend all the usual suspects showed
up in Ocotillo Wells for the 25th Annual
Buzzard Bait Family Fun Ride. That’s
correct, 25 years! Mike and Sonya Reit-
mayer and Doug and Renee Weber have
been working all those years to make this
event happen. I think congratulations are
in order and we should all sing them a
“Hymn.”
It was good to see everyone come together, greeting each
other with handshakes and hugs. The voluntary “NO MASK”
mandate was in force, and in keeping with the current health pro-
tocols, a vaccination center was set up. The “Covid Shots” booth
was well attended as the “shots” turned out to be tequila, whiskey
and Fireball! Needless to say, I got my two shots and a booster!

6 • April 2022
 It all started 25 years ago at Holmes Camp, in the Ocoti-
llo Wells Off Highway Vehicle Park. Six families got together
for a weekend of family fun, dirt and camaraderie. As word got
out, the group began to expand each year. A poker run was es-
tablished with proceeds going to the LAFD Widows, Orphans
and Disabled Fireman’s Fund, and every year got bigger. Eventu-
ally the event was moved to a large open area further inside the
park. There were as many as 150 – 200 RVs, trailers and tents
set up in a large U-shaped camp area. Fire Stations brought their
own groups each year, some with themes and decorations. All
was going well until the administration of the OHV park decided
enough was enough. The firemen were having too much fun and
donating too much money to charity. So, they arbitrarily raised
the permit fee from $25 to $2000.! They required us to have a
water truck for dust mitigation (in a drought). That worked well
in the other one million acres of desert surrounding the camp!
A paid “desert lifeguard,” (in case the water truck crashed and
someone was drowning) was also required, and a sheriff in a pa-
trol car. The “desert lifeguard” was actually an EMT for medical
emergencies, as if the LAFD couldn’t take care of themselves
with 100 Paramedics / EMTs on scene. The presence of the sher-
iff kept the law-breakers in line – NOT. (Think SOBE bombs and
fireworks). So, Mike and Doug moved the event south across the
highway, out of the park, on private land, where we continue to
have fun and donate money.
This year’s event was taken from the TV show “Gold
Rush.” Sites were set up along the course where participants
could pan for gold, dig for nuggets or just identify as a “gold-
digger!” Gold nuggets were exchanged for raffle tickets for one of
the many prizes donated to the event, including stays at condos
in Colorado and Mammoth. All in all, everyone had a great time
and money was raised for a worthy cause.
There was a rumor floating around that this may be the last
year for Buzzard Bait. That was right up to the time that Dale
Smith’s (CII LAFD) son, a recent Marine Corp graduate, made
an impassioned speech about how much the event meant to him.
Growing up with the event, all the memories, family time and fun
he had. He couldn’t wait to bring his future family to this event!
How do you argue with that?
Thanks again to Doug, Renee, Mike and Sonya for all your
hard work and dedication.

April 2022 • 7
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8 • April 2022
 You’re working another 72-hour shift.
It’s okay, you’re young. You have a girlfriend/
boyfriend, but it is just the beginning of the
relationship. You recently bought your first
condo, but the payment is low, and your health
is good. A little time passes. You are still do-
ing those 72-hour shifts, with an occasional
96-hour now thrown in. Your significant other
is now wearing a wedding ring, and your first
born is asking you if he or she is going to have
a brother or sister soon. The condo was traded
for a three-bedroom home in suburbia USA
along with the cheaper mortgage. Overtime is
now more of a necessity than a luxury.
Overtime can be beneficial for both the
City, the member, and their family. It allows the
City to cover unexpected absences and changes
in demand in staffing without having to hire
more firefighters and pay additional pensions
and medical benefits, while at the same time
giving the member extra income at a premium
rate.
However, overtime has its downsides,
too. While most firefighters will happily take
on as much overtime as is available (to a real-
istic point), there is growing scientific evidence
that relying too much on overtime can lead to
numerous problems not only for the members
and their family but for the City as well.
It is well-documented that the job of a
firefighter is a very physical one. It doesn’t take
a rocket scientist to determine that excessive
amounts of hours worked can cause a consid-
erable amount of stress not only on one’s body
but to the mind as well. Some health problems
that have been linked to long working hours
include:
• Duty related injuries such as lower back
strains, shoulder injuries, and even
hernias.
• Higher blood pressure caused by poor
diet and lack of sleep.
• Increased mental health issues
• Increase in sick days
• Heavy alcohol consumption
• Higher suicide rates
Another issue of working long hours
is a condition called “burnout.” Webster’s dic-
tionary defines burnout as a state of exhaustion
of physical or emotional strength or motivation
usually as a result of prolonged stress or frus-
tration. According to a FEMA study conducted
in 2017, “results clearly showed that burnout
leads to diminished safety behaviors in fire-
fighters. When firefighters are burned out, they
are less likely to voice their safety concerns,
use their PPE properly, and to perform their
work in a routinely safe manner.”
Another area of concern that indirectly
affects the fire service is divorce rates of first
responders. In September of 2017, a quiz was
conducted by QZ.com showing the highest and
lowest divorce rates in the United States. First
responders such as dispatcher, E.M.T person-
nel, and ambulance drivers were in the top 20
spots, with an average of 46.3 to 46.6 percent
of all marriages ending in divorce. Some say
that distance makes the heart grow fonder but
more and more statistics are pointing to the
fact that it makes it wander instead. Other stud-
ies showed that the divorce rate also increases
as weekly work hours increase. If you think
you have to work a lot of overtime now, just
wait until your ex-spouse’s lawyer gets done
with you.
Study after study has shown that fire-
fighters that work excessive amounts of hours
experience an increase in tobacco and alcohol
consumption, an unhealthy weight increase
among men, and an increase in depression
among women. In one study conducted by an
Alcohol Rehab Guide, 35 percent of firefighters
reported they had missed their shift or a call
due to excessive alcohol use. These issues will
now directly negate the benefit of the overtime
for all parties. The increase in absenteeism, in-
crease in medical cost, and the possibility of
increase in turn-over rate (not to mention the
decrease in productivity of the members) all
makes the notion of excessive overtime a poor
business practice for the City and its members.
The fire service is a dangerous profes-
sion, and the long hours only add to the dan-
ger. It is well-documented that excessive work
hours increase safety risk by impairing perfor-
mance, lowering attention to details, increasing
mental errors, and accident rates. These addi-
tional safety problems are likely due to worker
fatigue, which could be from a single long day
or from the cumulative effect of multiple days
of long hours. Not only do long hours increase
our chances of being hurt on duty, but a Ger-
man study showed that long hours contribute
to driver fatigue, and escalate the chance for an
accident not only on-duty, but on the way home
from work.
Customer service and patient care also
suffers. We have all seen the member who has
been at the station for a few days and the ef-
fects the lack of sleep can have on his/her bed-
side manner. Nothing is more embarrassing
and inexcusable than being put in the position
of having to apologize to a patient or their fam-
ily for your partner’s poor behavior.
Due to the abundance of overtime, the
days of having a “C” shift job have all but dis-
appeared for LAFD members. Not only has
this hurt the department by limiting the talents
learned by the experience gained by working
other types of jobs, such as construction, elec-
trical, and plumbing related careers, it means
that overtime seems to be the sole means for
most to earn a little extra money. Lack of hir-
ing, Covid-related issues, and excessive pro-
motions are diminishing the lower ranks. The
practice of assign hires is the norm now, lead-
ing to disgruntled members and causing some
ranks to be highly susceptable to excessive
hours of work. Something has to change.
Used responsibly, overtime can be a
positive for all entities concerned; however,
both the member and the City must be on
guard against its use to ensure it remains a vi-
able and beneficial option for years to come.
So, the next time you are on the computer pre-
paring to sign up for an overtime day, think
long and hard about whether or not that extra
money is worth the potential risk to your health
and family life. As American author and col-
umnist Dave Barry once said, “You should not
confuse your career with your life,” just as you
shouldn’t confuse money with happiness.
SOURCE: FEMA, QZ.Com, Alcohol Rehab Guide.
April 2022 • 9
 Let’s give it a go!
Monday, May 23 to Friday, May 27, 2022
ACTIVITY GUIDE WINE TOUR COMES WITH A CAVE CAFE MEAL CHOICE.
MONDAY - MAY 23 SANDWICHES TURKEY BACON CLUB | ITALIAN CLUB |
- Check in 2PM & catch up with old friends VEGGIE SUPREME
- Reception Get-Together - Beer & Wine (Provided) All sandwiches come with chips and a bottle of water. Sauces
are served on the side. Gluten-free wraps are available.
TUESDAY - MAY 24 SALAD CHICKEN CAESAR SALAD
- Wine Tours - 10AM $120 per guest. Limited spaces - Sign up early!
- Pizza Night - 5 PM

WEDNESDAY - MAY 25
- Dinner / Wine & Beer (info/details to follow) CONTACT: JUAN ALBARRAN
- Organization Reps at Clubhouse - 10 AM-2 PM (805) 807-3616 or jmalbarran@lafra.org
VISIT
THURSDAY - MAY 26 LAFRA.ORG/2022-LAFRA-Pechanga-Reunion
- Golf “Journey” at Pechanga - Price/Time: TBA
for more details
FRIDAY - MAY 27
- Check out 12PM! Till next time...
THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND REGARDING COVID-19 MEASURES:
SAVE YOUR HOTEL SPOT! As of February 15, 2022, fully vaccinated Pechanga guests do not
- Pechanga Resort/Hotel reservation, call (888) 732-4264 need to wear face masks while at Pechanga Resort Casino. We
kindly ask unvaccinated guests to continue wearing a face mask
SAVE YOUR SPACE!
RV SPOTS AVAILABLE - RESERVE by contacting Juan Albarran while in indoor public settings at the resort/casino.
10 • April 2022
 Near midnight on April 24, 2021, LAFD members from multiple
fire stations responded to a severe multi-vehicle traffic incident on the
101 Freeway. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered a four-car crash that
spanned several hundred feet on one of the busiest stretches of freeway
in Los Angeles.
A driver suspected of being under the influence rear-ended a box
truck. The impact caused both vehicles to lose control and crash into the
center divider wall. The box truck then entered the westbound lanes and
was struck by an oncoming vehicle. The box truck ultimately landed on
its side, and cantilevered atop the center divider. The truck’s cab had
sustained massive damage and was dangling over the westbound lanes,
facing oncoming traffic.
Firefighter/Paramedic Chadwick Qualley was the first to climb
his way to the top of the wreckage and discovered what appeared to
org
S:
ot
be three deceased victims. Upon closer inspection, Qualley caught a
glimpse of eye movement in one of the victims, and he immediately
initiated a rescue.
The severely injured victim was tightly pinned under part of the
dash console. Qualley removed his protective turnout coat and helmet
to squeeze inside the mangled cab. As Qualley worked to stabilize the
patient, Firefighter II David Stigger forced his way underneath the pas-
senger side of the dangling cab to assist with the delicate extrication.
At significant personal risk to themselves, the two members worked
in unison to free the patient, despite the possibility of being injured or
crushed by the shifting of the unstable cab. With assistance from their
fellow firefighters, they extricated the patient and conducted the hand-
off to the waiting ambulance crew.
April 2022 • 11
Paid Advertisement

Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association Medical Plan may cover this examination.
12 • April 2022 Contact your plan provider to verify.

Welcome back to another edition of
Battalion 1 News! This last month has been
a slow news cycle so we’ll have to make due
with what we’ve got. Contrary to popular be-
lief, maybe one story a month is submitted to
me and based on the amount y’all talk, I know
we can do better. All stories submitted remain
anonymous so send me the good, the bad, and
the funny. Now for the good: Congrats to the
newly promoted members coming into and
leaving the battalion. A wise man once said,
“A bad engineer in the cooking rotation is bet-
ter than none at all,” so wherever they’ve de-
cided to pitch their tent, make ‘em’ cook! To
those just getting started here, you’ve lucked
out. ESPECIALLY if you’re on the B shift.
South Bureau Assistant Chief Jamie Moore congratulates Christopher
Hughes on his promotion to Engineer. Photo | lafdsouthbureau
I’ve heard “A” stands for Ain’t Going to Fires,
“B” stands for Burning Everything Down, and
“C” stands for Cleaning the B Shift’s Saws.
With the amount of fire activity in the bat-
talion, companies throughout the city might
want to start carrying Battalion 1 first in maps
on their rigs for the inevitable move up to 9s,
10s, or 14s… just a thought. Now there have
been stirrings amongst the membership about
the transition to the new Cairns helmet. Since
the Union didn’t step in to keep the old LAFD
helmets, a new group is being formed. They’re
calling themselves: Firefighters for Keeping
our Helmets… for Freedom. To join, just do-
nate $500 and they will see to it that the man-
date for new helmets goes away (maybe). Now
for the bad. First, let’s learn a lesson togeth-
er. A lesson which maybe should have been
learned the first time… Don’t post pictures or
videos of yourself performing dirt bike stunts
Danny Gutierrez with a new bid for paramedic of the year at LAC
USC. Which Danny Gutierrez you ask? The world may never know…
when you’re off IOD. Sometimes it seems a
little restrictive, but realistically, if you can
blow through some woops, you can probably
survive a KME’s suspension package. Next, it
seems Chief Castillo has a grudge against 15s.
I have seen Light Force 15 sitting in staging
on a couple fires waiting for an assignment and
getting passed up multiple times by companies
who checked in afterwards. I’d try to step in
and defend 15s, but that sounds like a job for
the non-existent Battalion 13 writer so I guess
I’ll defend Castillo. The only reason I could
come up with for not putting them to work is
that maybe Truck 15 has a knack for catching
on fire (in quarters??) and he’s trying to keep
that from happening again. Good looking out
chief! Well, that’s all I could make up this
month. Send all your pics, announcements, and
tall tales to battalionjuan@gmail.com.
April 2022 • 13
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medical plan that is affordable. The plan is designed by firefighters for firefighters and their families
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14 • April 2022 MemberServices@lafra.org OR (323) 259-5287
 s

Captain Raymond does his best Schwarzenegger

nsive The crew at Station 9 takes a break after
impression from Total Recall while trying to fig-
ure out staffing at OCB. Coming to a station near
milies a fire downtown. Photo | Yvonne Griffin you Spring of 2022

r you

  Battalion Chief Justin Moore Sr. congratulates his son, Justin Engine 41 Probationary Member, Roee Losycer, happy to come
t: Moore on his promotion to Engineer. Photo | lafdsouthbureau in and learn his new district! Picture | FF Benny Farillas

April 2022 • 15
 Rethinking When You Can Retire?
We are happy to talk with you, with no obligation,
about strategies to help you retire earlier than
you may have originally planned.
Numbers to remember if you’d like to retire early:

50: the minimum age you must be to

collect a pension
Retiring early can be achieved with
some planning and many, many people

55: the minimum age you must be to

receive the city healthcare subsidy
on the job are strongly considering
it. But, understanding your situation
the minimum years of service you must of when you may be able to retire
25: have to “max out” your medical subsidy
(from 20-25 YOS this amount is not 100%)
financially is critical. We’d be happy to
talk with you about different strategies
20: you
the minimum years of service (YOS)
must attain to collect a pension to get you there.

***Remember, between the ages of 50 – 55 you must pay out of Call our office: (562) 433-1400
pocket for your medical insurance coverage if you retire early.

Email: info@ai-mgmt.com | Web: ai-mgmt.com

Andorra Investment Management (The Firm) is a Registered Investment Advisor and provides investment management services to individual, trusts,
pension plans, and corporations through Charles Schwab & Company acting as the firm’s custodian. The Firm provides investment management services
through the City of Los Angeles Deffered Compensation Plan’s Self Directed Brokerage Option (SDBO). The information above should not be used as
personal financial advice and always consult your financial advisor before considering any investment.

16 • April 2022
LA City and LA County worked to free a passenger from
a vehicle in the County. Photos | Jonathan Androwski

Fire 2 on a costal response in San Pedro.

Flag ceremony for Donald G. De Porter at Fire Station 49. Photo | James Kaiser

April 2022 • 17
 Lewis, Marenstein, Wicke, Sherwin Lee, LLP
OVER 40
45 YEARS OF SERVICE TO SAFETY PERSONNEL AND THEIR FAMILIES

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We have a pension department
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18 • April 2022
 A/O Bill Kusaba celebrates his last shift at Fire Station 114-B.
Photo | Jonith Johnson Jr.

Firefighters find a well-involved SUV in the

Lake Balboa area. Photos | Ismael Miranda

FF Aaron Gragas ((90 “C”) was acting engineer and his son,
Who says that Chiefs don’t work? Here is an unnamed Chief that saw work Zachariah (27 “C”) was the nozzleman at their first fire together.
that needed to be done and stepped in. Thank you, Sir! Photo | lafdstation 88 The incident was on Gledhill St in Panorama City.

April 2022 • 19
 16133 Ventura Blvd, Suite 685
Encino CA 91436

20 • April 2022

Welcome to another edition of the good,
the bad, and the ugly. First off, I would like to
thank everyone from Battalion 11 who partici-
pated and submitted the stories and pictures.
The latest talk is that Task Force 20 was re-
sponding to a structure fire in their first in and
E220 went to set up for a textbook 4-way op-
eration when the Engineer noticed he seemed
pretty low in his 4” bed. By low, I mean, that
all 750’ were missing. Perhaps, that’s why he
was so quick responding... Thankfully T11,
while moving up, found it in the street and re-
turned E220’s supply hose back to them. I’ve
heard 11s is going to be lenient with the B &
R pay up from 20s considering the battalion
recently lost the most centrally located Baskin
Robbins to a fire. All I will say is Division “A”
whoops! Maybe 29s could have been rolling up
doors instead of rolling up their hose…
Keep the stories coming and send them in!
The Cheese
batt11cheese@gmail.com

Two-car collision with one patient entrapped and

requiring extrication. Photo | Ismael Miranda

Engine 91 responded to a reported vehicle fire on the

SB 5 FWY at Roxford Street. Photos | Ismael Miranda

Friends and family gather at Fire Station 75 for a flag ceremony in remembrance
of retired Firefighter III James G. Mangers who left us in January.

April 2022 • 21
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22 • April 2022
 E21 makes quick work of a cardboard fire. Photo James Kaiser

I guess we are a now a kinder, gentler department. Photo | Taskforce 21 21’s crew getting’ after it! Photo | Taskforce 21

Engine 46 getting a quick knockdown

on an auto. Photo | James Anderson

April 2022 • 23
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24 • April 2022
 FF Justin Washington and the rest of the crew at Station
64 work a church fire back August of 21. Photo was just
LF 66 handle a fully-involved motorhome. Photo | Justin Johnson too good to leave out. Photo | Captain Don Steinman

TF 33 “A” Shift members shut down a hydrant. Photo | James Anderson

Captain Steinman enjoys a retirement breakfast

with friends and family. Photos Yvonne Griffin

April 2022 • 25
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P R O U D LY S E R V I N G L A F D A N D L A P D FA M I L I E S

26 • April 2022
 A member of the squad making sure the companies
inside have a way in & out. Photo | Taskforce 21

Train as if your buddy’s life depends on it!

Train hard and train often. Photo | lacitystentorians Photo | Taskforce 21

April 2022 • 27
 LAFPP’S VIRTUAL SERVICES

Virtual learning has shown significant growth as an effective

method of interacting and educating. To keep pace with this ever-chang-
ing world of technology, LAFPP adapted innovative ways of educating
SEARCY M. JACKSON III, our members through interactive virtual counseling sessions and webi-
Firefighter III, FS 99-A nars to conveniently fit your busy schedules.
SATURDAY, MAY 28, 2022 DROP or Service Pension Group Counseling sessions provide
the information you will need to enter or exit DROP or apply for a ser-
Westin Hotel
5400 W Century Blvd, Los Angeles CA
vice pension. The sessions will prepare you before the actual entry/exit
process and the submission of paperwork. A follow-up individual vir-
6:00 PM - 12:00 AM tual or in-person session may be requested, if desired.
$60 per person Financial Planning Education webinars and the Benefits In-
formation series webinars address your needs throughout the various
Kindly RSVP Kim - (818) 826-9392 or CASH APP $RetireJacks22 stages of your career. These webinars offer members flexibility and con-
RSVP by May 1, 2022. No money will be taken at the door.
venience and are cost-effective to the LAFPP pension plan.
All webinars offer group settings where educators share their
presentation on-screen as members follow along. These sessions de-
liver valuable information and allow members the opportunity to pose
questions that may also impact other attendees. Any questions you may
not want to share with the group can be addressed privately with you
through the chat option. Resource materials are provided in the form of
a slide deck, webpages, and other reference documents. Breakout ses-
sions are also offered whereby members may engage in smaller group
discussions.

BENEFITS OF VIRTUAL COUNSELING

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tion convenient for you. Also, a spouse or domestic partner, or any other
guest, may join you from just about anywhere.
This new era of virtual communication has proven to be effec-
tive and well received by those who have participated. We encourage
you to attend one of our virtual sessions and provide your feedback so
we may continue to enhance our services to you.
To register, log in to your MyLAFPP account or contact the
Communications and Education Section at (213) 279-3155 or via email
at Pensions@lafpp.com. You may access the upcoming webinar sched-
ule at www.lafpp.com/seminars-workshops

CONNELL CHEVROLET
S E R V I N G O R A N G E C O U N T Y S I N C E 1 9 6 4 • The Orange County Original

SPECIAL PRICING
TO ALL FIREFIGHTERS
AND THEIR FAMILIES
THE 2021 SILVERADO
For Your Special Deal Contact Fleet Managers
Eddie Cuadra • Joey Cuadra mail:
phone: visit:
WE WILL BUY YOUR CAR
PAID FOR OR NOT (714) 546-1200 (800) 244-3439
P.O. Box 41903
Los Angeles CA 90041
www.LAFRA.org
2828 HARBOR BLVD. COSTA MESA
INVENTORY
ONLINE AT: www.connellchevy.com

28 • April 2022
A firefighter from Station 60 extinguishes an auto fire on the SB 5 FWY x SB 170 FWY. Photo | Ismael Miranda

48 Firefighters took just 22 minutes to access, confine. and fully extinguish a fire
within the attic of the Denny’s restaurant in Northridge. Photo | Jacob Salzman

April 2022 • 29
30 • April 2022
 Firefighters battle a possible grow operation fire on
Sherman Way in the West Valley. Photos | Rick McClure

South Bureau Assistant Chief Jamie Moore congratulates Timothy South Bureau Assistant Chief Jamie Moore congratulates Brandon
Ferralli on his promotion to Engineer. Photo | Captain Ruben Torres Ibrahim on his promotion to Inspector. Photo | Captain Ruben Torres

April 2022 • 31
 South Bureau Assistant Chief Jamie Moore congratulates Joseph A smile like that helps everyone get through the
Giovinazzo on his promotion to Engineer. Photo | lafdsouthbureau toughest of times. Photo | Kimberly Herring

A member at 34s making a memory not soon forgotten. Firefighter assists civilian across the street. No matter what is written
Photo | Kimberly Herring about us, we are still there to help. Photo | Kimberly Herring

32 • April 2022
“It is with heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved brother, Dexter McDaniel. Dexter has been a pivotal force in our organization since day one. Words cannot describe
the impact he had on us all. Today, we considered canceling our “Lucky Strike” Bowling event due to the sudden passing of our brother. Then, we thought, what would Dexter want
us to do? Dexter loved the STENTORIANS, and he cherished the fellowship, so we decided to bowl for Dex! In the end, it was good to all come together and share our personal experi-
ences about Dexter. A moment of silence and prayer was much needed. Tonight, was about “Bowling for Dexter.” The Los Angeles City Stentorians send our deepest condolences to
the McDaniel Family.” Photos | lacitystentorians and LAFRA

April 2022 • 33
 The Los Angeles City Fire Department graduated recruits from LAFD Class 22-2. Congratulations to all. Make us proud! LAFD Photo | Gary Apodaca

LAFD Bike Team members, Capt. Scott, FF/PM Tovar, FF Hubbard, and FF Mitchell set up at
the Los Angeles Coliseum in preparation for a little Nascar racing. Photo | lacitystentorians

34 • April 2022
 Retired Fire Chief Donald O. Manning celebrates his 90th Birthday with
family and friends! Congratulations Chief. We wish you all the best!
L to R. Terry, Cindi, Rose, Don, Steve and Cher Gao, Michele and Tim.
All the Manning family except Cher—not present.

76 year old retired Capt Jim Kinninger and his wife Georgia, enjoy backcountry snowboarding and skiing near Virginia Lakes, CA. Using our
Honda side x side on tracks, we essentially have our own private chairlift. (FYI, normally I’m wearing my helmet as well as knee and wrist braces.)

Karl and Marianne Grossman, (ret. FS 89

C, 1994) enjoying the kids and grandkids.

April 2022 • 35
 BENEFITING OUR FALLEN FIREFIGHTERS

SATURDAY, JUNE 11, 2022

This event is open to ALL, whether you ride or not!
BENEFITING

MEET AT TIME PRICE

Registration: 9 AM
Mulholland Harley Davidson
Event Starts: 10 AM
24050 Ventura Blvd
KSU: 11 AM
Calabasas, CA 91302
Luncheon Approx: 12:30 PM
$25 Lunch Only
$35 Single / $60 Couple
Includes: Registration, Luncheon
Door Prize Raffle Ticket, Ride Swag Bag
If pre-registered by 06/01/22

If you can’t make the scenic ride, join us at 12:30 PM for the Luncheon.
Door Prizes, Raffle, Live Auction & Entertainment at
SAGEBRUSH CANTINA, 23527 CALABASAS RD, CALABASAS, CA 91302

TICKETS ON SALE AT FIREHOGS.ORG

36 • April 2022
• Thursday, April 21, 2022, 12 Noon • Tickets are available for $40.00 per person

• Double Tree by Hilton Hotel • Tables of ten are available for $380.00
Downtown Los Angeles
120 South Los Angeles Street • NO TICKETS WILL BE SOLD AT THE DOOR,
Los Angeles, California, 90012 PICK-UP ONLY **LIMITED SEATING**

• Please RSVP to (916) 662-0124

by April 18, 2022

PLEASE MAKE YOUR CHECK OUT TO THE LOS ANGELES CITY FIREFIGHTERS ASSOCIATION
MAIL CHECK TO: LAFFA, c/o Jim Dolan, PO Box 6303, Lakewood, CA 90714

April 2022 • 37
 Each year your Relief Association awards
college scholarships to member dependents.
These include:
• The Leo K. Najarian Memorial Scholarship of $25,000
• The Bill Goss Scholarship of $15,000
• Three Relief Scholarship awards of $12,500
• Dennis Mendenhall Memorial Scholarship of $25,000

Online application available at lafra.org/scholarships

APPLICATION PERIOD EVALUATION & TESTING

Tuesday, March 1 until Thursday, March 31, 2022 Saturday, April 9, 2022
(This filing is only for high school seniors and * qualified (participants will be notified)
college students, as per LAFRA policy)

APPLICATION DEADLINE
Thursday, March 31, 2022 at 5 PM PST

scholarship@lafra.org

38 • April 2022
 She did the work and earned her spot. Welcome to Rosie’s Corner. As
she paints them, we will feature them. Thanks, Rosie for the beautification
of the LAFD. We look forward to your next work of art!

April 2022 • 39
40 • April 2022
 This isn’t a historical piece on equipment, but instead an
introduction to the future of the LAFD. In early 2022, the LAFD
introduced a new structure firefighting helmet to the field. With
a look of nostalgia but a design to provide all the modern safety
features, this helmet starting rolling out to the field in early 2022.
Designed to resist temperatures of over 500 degrees, the helmet
contains ten main components:
1. Shell
Another feature new to the department will be the included ear-
laps. Designed to work in conjunction with the LAFD firefighting
hood, the earlaps will provide further thermal protection (and al-
low us to use your pictures in the Grapevine when properly worn).
The MSA CAIRNS 1044 Structure Firefighting Helmet
was selected from a broad field of competitors after intense test-
ing and evaluation as being the best-equipped helmet for the safe-
ty of the members of the Los Angeles City Fire Department while
also bringing back some old-school styling to the field!

2. Reflective Trim

3. Impact Cap and Chinstrap

4. Suspension and Retention System

5. Front Mounting Bracket

6. Front Holder

7. Earlap

8. Integrated Eye protection

9. Side Passport Brackets

10. Leather Front I.D. Shield

One of the unique features new to the LAFD is the built in

Defender Visor retractable eyewear system that stows neatly and
securely inside the helmet. The lenses protect from heat and de-
bris and feature a quick disconnect for fast, tool-free lens changes.
It’s designed to fit most Firefighters, even while wearing glasses.

April 2022 • 41
42 • April 2022
 Olivas Links – Low Gross / Net Tuesday, November 9, 2021

Skins Winners:
Z. Duda (98-A), D. Gant (2) (Ret.), R. Hernandez (2) (Ret.), P. Schori (2) (Ret.), C. Vilaubi (15-B), T. Keeler (98-B)

Sunset Hills Country Club – Low Gross / Net Monday, December 13, 2021

Skins Winners:
R. Vege (Ret.), M. Svorinich (2) (48-A), M. Neu (Ret.), G. Malais (Ret.)

Tierra Rejada Golf Club – Low Gross / Net Monday, January 17, 2022

Skins Winners:
J. Duca (4) (Ret.), T. Tsujimura (3) (69-A), D. Gant (4) (Ret.), J. Horimoto (Ret.), R. Peralta (Ret.), E. Williams 109-A), J. Ramelli (114-B), J. Johnson (Ret.)

Rio Hondo Golf Club – Low Gross / Net Wednesday, January 26, 2022

Skins Winners:
A. Black (Ret.), J. Cawdrey (LAFRA), M. Monroy (Ret.), R. Vilaubi (Ret.), M. Sauber (2) (Ret.), P. Proni (Ret.), K. Buzzell (Ret.), L. McAndress (Ret.)

April 2022 • 43
44 • April 2022
 Lots of stuff that I was told was good or acceptable is now
harmful and unacceptable. Gasoline-powered automobiles are
on top of the “Not So Good” list. Natural gas stoves and ovens
are also in the cross-hairs of extinction. It’s now bein’ reported
that gas stoves are actually harmful to us humans. The experts
say that when cookin’ with natural gas there’s some sort of in-
complete combustion that takes place that’s harmful to our lungs.
I should have figured somethin’ like this would happen, since I
just purchased a new natural gas cook top. It wasn’t that long
ago that natural gas was all the rage. It was billed as bein’ clean
burnin’ and more efficient than electric appliances. And just like
that, havin’ an all-electric kitchen is the way to go!
Gas-powered blowers for cleanin’ driveways and patios
were also once acceptable because it was better than washin’
down a driveway and wastin’ water. Well, the experts now say
that these gas-powered blowers are NOT good for the environ-
ment because of the pollution that’s emitted. If fact, the experts
say that usin’ a gas-powered blower to blow the leaves off your
lawn or driveway is equivalent to drivin’ a gas-powered car 300
miles. Who are these EXPERTS that come up with these com-
parisons?
And then there’s the “Mask Mandate,” with rules I still
don’t understand. When enterin’ a restaurant, you must be wea-
rin’ a mask, but once you’re seated, the mask can be discarded.
Does sittin’ somehow lessen the effect of the COVID virus?
Then immediately followin’ the meal the mask must be worn as
you exit the restaurant. Of course, the best one was watchin’ the
Super Bowl with a stadium full of people that were all mask-less.
Go figure.
The WIFE and I recently went to Hawaii. Bein’ able to
step inside the aircraft was nearly as difficult as figurin’ out Chi-
nese arithmetic. Naturally, havin’ a vaccine card is the first re-
quirement, but the state of Hawaii also requires visitors to down-
load a picture of their vaccine card, which then requires a QR
code to be downloaded onto a smart phone to be shown prior to
boardin’. Think of this process as bein’ part of a Hawaiian luau
without the luau.
Then, while sittin’ at the Honolulu Airport for our return
flight home, we were treated to a constant
barrage of public announcements. These
announcements were to remind all travelers
that havin’ proof of bein’ vaccinated was not
enough. Even proof of havin’ a negative CO-
VID test was not acceptable.
So, what did I learn from my trip to Ha-
waii? Wearin’ the same germ-saturated mask
for a week was no problem.
AC
KEEP SMILIN’!
choppedup@att.net
April 2022 • 45
 MEMBERS
RICHARD M. SUMMERS, ENGINEER.
Appointed November 24, 1962. Retired on a disability pension August 27, 1984 from FS 47.
Passed away February 16, 2022.

JOHN E. BURGAN, FIREFIGHTER III.

Appointed January 6, 1976. Retired on a service pension July 12, 2008 from FS 110.
Passed away February 17, 2022.

ROBERT A. WITHERSPOON, CAPTAIN II.

Appointed February 20, 1971. Retired on a service pension May 1, 2002 from FS 80.
Passed away February 21, 2022.

DEXTER G. MC DANIEL, FIREFIGHTER III.

Appointed December 21, 1989. Retired on a service pension March 31, 2020 from FS 79.
Passed away February 25, 2022.

ROBERT W. DOCKERY, ENGINEER.

Appointed June 17, 1952. Retired on a service pension July 1, 1977 from FS 104.
Passed away February 26, 2022.

DONALD A. KUSAR, JR., ENGINEER.

Appointed April 1, 1973. Retired on a service pension September 20, 2008 from FS 40.
Passed away March 3, 2022.

BRUCE W. BERGQUIST, FIREFIGHTER III.

Appointed April 27, 1975. Retired on a service pension May 31, 2007 from FS 114.
Passed away March 4, 2022.

FAMILY
Alberta M. Hansen, surviving spouse of Robert G. Hansen, passed away February 20, 2022.
Naoma R. Beck, surviving spouse of Richard L. Beck, passed away February 21, 2022.
Gail D. Mooneyham, spouse of Billy J. Mooneyham, passed away March 7, 2022.

46 • April 2022
 In 1981 I was assigned to FS19 “A.”
My partner was Ken Smith. When the
business phone rang at about 0635 on a
Sunday morning, I had a feeling that there
was a SOD Day for me somewhere so I got
up and was told to go to FS33 for the day.
Because I was in a ride club, and
I had driven to work on Saturday, I gave
my car keys to my ride club partner Capt.
Robert “Butch” Rose so he could drive my
car home. We were both working the next
day so he kept my car at his house and
drove himself in the following day.
I loaded my bedding and clean
clothes into the station plug buggy and left
for 33s at about 0700. In 1981, you could
get on the San Diego Freeway at 0700 on a
Sunday morning and not be stuck in traffic
for an hour. The glory days of the freeway
system. As I was driving south on the 405,
heading for the 10, there were two doves
eating whatever was growing in the cracks
of the pavement. One of them saw me and
flew out of the way. The other had a head
on collision with the plug buggy. Feathers
went everywhere. There was no point in
stopping so I continued on to FS33. When
I parked the plug buggy at 33s I noticed
that the dove had become wedged in the
grill of the truck so I removed it and car-
ried it into the station to dispose of the car-
cass.
At that time FS33 had the reputa-
tion of giving out-of-station SOD guys a
hard time so I was prepared for the day’s
events to be challenging. There was a
wooden plaque on the hood of the stove
proclaiming FS33 was “Fire City.” It’s
probably still there today. It almost wasn’t
but that’s another story. I walked into the
kitchen holding the bird in my hand, in-
tending to drop it into the trash can. Things
went downhill from there, not for me, but
for the crew that was coming on duty but
they didn’t know it yet. When I went into
the kitchen there was one firefighter sitting
at the table having his first cup of coffee of
the day. I think his nickname was “Dirt,”
I’m not sure why. He looked like he had
been up most of the night because his eyes
were a little bloodshot. He saw me come in
and instantly knew that I was a SOD guy
from another station. Fresh meat. He looks
at me and he sees the dead bird in my hand
and he instantly comes to life and prepares
to go into attack mode because he knows
I’m from out of the house. He stares at me
through his bleary eyes and he says, “Hey,
kid! What do you have in your hand?”
This guy opened the dance so I just
waltzed on in. He fired the first shot of the
day but I am going to at least fire back one
time before I go down in torrents of wa-
ter. At this point I knew the game was on.
I looked at him as innocently as I could,
while holding out my hand and I said “it’s
a bird.” By now he was up and running.
“What are you going to do with it?” He
was grinning at me like a Cheshire cat,
setting me up for the kill shot. I looked at
him and said, “I’m going to eat it.” He just
stared at me while I walked to the trash
can and field stripped the bird. I had hunt-
ed doves for many years so eating one was
nothing new to me. Apparently, judging
from the look on his face, it was to him.
Typically, when cleaning a bird I try to be
as neat as possible because there will be
several more to clean so I try to confine
everything to as small an area as possible
because of the cleanup that will have to
be done. It’s easier when everything is
in a small area. Not today. This was not
typical so I liberally scattered feathers and
innards around the trashcan. The sight
of bird parts so close to his cup of coffee
woke him right up. By this time there were
several other firefighters in the kitchen not
believing what they were seeing.
I walked over to the sink, washed
the bird and asked where the frying pans
were. They didn’t answer, they only point-
ed. I could figure out the sign language so
I got the pan, put some butter in it, along
with the bird, cooked it and walked over to
the table where this man was sitting. I sat
across the table from him and asked him if
I could have breakfast with him.
He just stared—then I ate the bird.
Word got around very quickly that there
was a crazy man working SOD today. I
just smiled at them and was pleasant the
rest of the shift. This was in 1981. Fast for-
ward to 2001 in the back yard at FS88.
We had RA93 in the Valley shops
for a minor repair and my partner and I
didn’t have much to do for about an hour or
so. I noticed a group of firefighters stand-
ing behind the station talking to Capt.
Steve Ruda, soon to be Battalion Chief
Ruda. I wandered over and acknowledged
Steve and listened, politely and attentively,
to the conversation. About this time, FF
Greg Pascolla who had been at FS33 the
day of the bird incident, comes out of the
station, sees me standing there and in a
loud voice says, “That’s the crazy s.o.b.
who ate the bird.” It made me feel good to
be recognized twenty years after the inci-
dent. When I retired, I got a personalized
license plate, IEMRK. It means, I Eat My
Road Kill.
Art Sorrentino
Daoldwestidekid@Yahoo.com
April 2022 • 47
 REGISTRATION
NOW OPEN

june 11-19, 2022

SAN DIEGO • CALIFORNIA


SAVE THE DATE

First Responders Relay
 


 
PRESENTED BY

Funded in part with City of San Diego Tourism Marketing District Assessment Funds.

48 • April 2022

The Olympic-style games will
feature athletes from around the country
competing in 50 different sports at venues
throughout San Diego
The California Police Athletic
Federation (CPAF), a non-profit organi-
zation committed to promoting sport and
physical fitness among fire responders, is
thrilled to announce this year’s US Po-
lice & Fire Championships presented by
BioOne on Saturday, June 11 through Sun-
day, June 19 at various venues.
The games will feature athletes competing
in over 40 sports across 30+ venues in the
greater San Diego County, including ar-
chery, baseball, bowling, golf, dodgeball,
tennis, water polo, CrossFit®, and more.
“After holding a modified event last
year, we are thrilled to be returning to San
Diego for our 55th season of the games,”
says Larry Collins, President of the Cali-
fornia Police Athletic Federation. “The
mission of the California Police Athletic
Federation is to unite public safety ath-
letes and provide them with the ultimate
in an Olympic-style athletic experience.
The focus is to encourage health and well-
ness among all public safety personnel and
create lifelong memories for the athletes,
their families, and the communities they
serve.”
The US Police & Fire Champion-
ships are an Olympic-style competition
for first responders and public safety per-
sonnel across the United States. This an-
nual event draws thousands of athletes
representing law enforcement, firefighters,
emergency medical technicians, custom
and correctional officers, as well as full-
time employees (active and retired) of any
eligible agency or organization in the ca-
pacity of 9-1-1 dispatchers, detention-cus-
todial officers, crime scene investigators,
or lifeguards. In addition to the return of
over 40 crowd-pleasing sporting events,
this year’s games will also be adding Disc
Golf to the lineup along with multi-day
tournaments of Cornhole and CrossFit.
The CPAF is also proud to announce the
picturesque venues of Torrey Pines, Made-
ras Golf Club, and The Crossings at Carls-
bad for the Golf tournament.
For this year’s games, CPAF will
also be adding brand-new technology to
two of its sporting events, Golf, and Bra-
zilian Jiujitsu. The Golf tournament will
be using Golf Genius, a cloud-based tour-
nament management software, making it
accessible from anywhere. With Live Mo-
bile Scoring, golfers log their scores via
the Golf Genius app on their smartphone
for instant calculation of results and live
leaderboards. Brazilian Jiujitsu will be
using Smoothcomp, the world’s best tour-
nament software for combat sports. The
smoothest way to participate, organize
and follow competitions. From setting up
brackets to seeding to weighing and scor-
ing during games, Smoothcomp is a one
stop shop for the entire tournament. In ad-
dition, the software can connect a tv for
instant leaderboards, schedules, and mat
assignments.
These games provide a welcome
connection between public safety person-
nel from varied backgrounds and cultures
and offer the opportunity to develop ca-
maraderie and celebrate the human spirit
at its very best.
The US Police & Fire Champion-
ships are one of three events that the Cali-
fornia Police Athletic Federation presents,
including the bi-annual World Police &
Fire Games, and the brand-new First Re-
sponders Relay, which debuted last year.
Registration for participation in the US
Police & Fire Championships is now open
at www.USPFC.org. To learn more about
the California Police Athletic Federation
and its games, please visit www.cpaf.org
About the California Police Athletic Federation
The California Police Athletic Federation
(CPAF), a non-profit organization established in 1970,
is the governing body for the United States Police & Fire
Championships, the World Police & Fire Games, and the
NEW First Responders Relay. The mission of CPAF is to
promote sport and physical fitness among personnel rep-
resenting law enforcement, fire, corrections, probation,
border protection, immigration, and customs. For more
information, please visit www.cpaf.org
April 2022 • 49

LAFRA,
Please accept this donation to Widows
and Orphans Fund in memory of Gary Ruedy
who was on the LAPD from 1960 to 1980. I
also want to acknowledge Gary’s son, John
Ruedy who was on active duty with the LAFD.
Gary and John Ruedy passed away within six
days of one another from unrelated causes.
Gary and I went to high school together and
also joined the Marine Corp together.
We spent many years water skiing on
the Colorado River at the Big Bend Resort.
Gary had three sons who all joined the LAFD.
John Ruedy came on in 1989. Brandon and
Brent both joined the Department in 2000. On
June 18, 2021 a celebration of life was held at
Brandon Ruedy’s house. John Ruedy will be
honored in July by the LAFD.
Bill Finn
LAFRA,
Please accept this donation to the
WODFF in Memory of my husband, Richard
Rozendal. A special thank you to Jim Dolan for
always being there to answers questions. The
folded flag is very special to our family! Rich-
ard was always proud of his Fire Department
and the Firefighters he served with.
Thank you again and God Bless.
Mary Rozendal
IN MEMORY OF FRANK W. BORDEN—
ASSISTANT CHIEF
Frank was a super guy and was heav-
ily involved with new programs in US&R,
Training Division, Community Emergency Re-
sponse Program, and FIRESCOPE. Frank did
so much for the LAFD that he was always put
50 • April 2022
in lead positions when establishing Department
programs. Frank gave his life to the LAFD and
even in retirement with all he has done for the
Historical Society and the preservation of old
Fire Boat 2. Frank was an amazing person and
he always gave credit where credit was due.
I wish his family my condolences and espe-
cially Raquel and little Frankie. Looking back
at Frank’s career, I remember an interesting
event. One day, while I was assigned to Di-
vision I, FS-3 had a non-issued flashlight ex-
plode in a turnout coat in the jump seat while in
quarters. It literally blew the coat apart. I called
the LAPD bomb squad who came by and said
they were familiar with the specific brand of
flashlights which were being purchased by in-
dividual members. The flashlight did not have
a relief valve to allow any buildup of hydrogen
gas from the batteries to escape. If the coat had
been on a member, it could have caused seri-
ous injury or possible death of a member. This
occurred on a Saturday and I could not get a
return call from the DDC on-call. So, I sent out
a teletype to have this brand of flashlight re-
moved from City property until we could see
if the manufacture could rectify the problem.
On Monday morning, Chief Anthony called at
0530 hrs. and wanted a meeting at HQ at 0630
hrs. Frank was at the meeting. I took the coat to
the meeting in his office which was full other
staff members. When they saw the turnout coat,
they agreed we did the right thing. Frank was
in the process of purchasing US&R equipment
and cancelled orders for all lights made by this
manufacturer and distributed a memo regard-
ing the problem to the network of US&R Task
Force in the US. The company filed a lawsuit
against Frank and the City attorney was as-
signed to represented him during the pending
lawsuit. The result was the manufacturer in-
stalled a relief valve to release the buildup of
gas. The company agreed to drop the lawsuit
against Frank on the condition that he had to
put out a letter telling all the US&R Task Forc-
es in the country that their lights were safe. I
would always kid Frank about being sued be-
cause of this issue. He was such a nice person
and always did the right thing to please every-
one. I felt bad for him regarding the lawsuit. I
will miss Frank, his smiling face, and all the
email cards he would send out on all holidays.
Rest in peace Frank, you did so much for the
LAFD and your family should be proud.
Robert Neamy
LAFRA,
Please accept the enclosed check as a
donation to the Memory of Richard Ziemer.
Richard was like a brother to me. We worked
together at 33’s. traveled all over the USA and
we both made our home here in Fallbrook.
Prior to his passing, Richard entrusted me with
some personal items that have been sold at his
request, with the funds being donated to the
WODFF in his name.
Thanks to our wonderful LAFRA.
Fred K. Ragland—Retired
IN MEMORY OF FRANK W. BORDEN—
ASSISTANT CHIEF
A poet I am not. But if I were, I would
surely describe Chief Borden as a man of great
compassion. First of all, to his Family. His as-
sociation and employment with the LAFD. His
un-mistaken and never-ending compassion for
his fellow workmates no matter what rank,
from rookie to Chief Engineer, to the civilian
staff wherever or whom he encountered. He
greeted everyone with a smile first, then with
plain good ole American language.
I was a twenty-seven-year-old rookie
(1975) in Batt. 2, A shift. Besides Chief Bor-
den’s smile, he also had that serious look that
said to me, listen closely, intently. So as a rook-
ie, I received from him, the best training I could
possibly have gotten in the fire service. I knew
then that my safety and other members safety
was the utmost concern. In the late 1980’s, I
called a new unit referred to as the “Disaster
Preparedness Unit”, I did so because it was
headed by Chief Borden, the unmistaken one
that loved challenges. I spoke to the late Mike
Burns, another of those rare finds in the human
population. Well, it was not long thereafter that
I was told to pack my bags and head on down.
I later realized this special duty that I volun-
teered for was a most gratifying and learning
experience on the job. I say this because of
Chief Borden and all the members that were
selected, took the Chiefs leadership and started
to train the Cities communities as Commu-
nity Emergency Response Teams. Of course, I
can’t forget the staff, they were awesome too.
I thanked the Chief for allowing to me to serve
with him once more. I thank you Chief. My
heartfelt condolences to the family. They that
are lively and spirited will never die.

Thomas “Tom” Guzman

Experts say it is in your best interest to review your Estate Plan
every five years.
LAFRA,
Reasons to update your Estate Plan:
Please accept this donation in thanks to
Jason Knight, Danny Wu, Eric Santiago, and
• Marriage or divorce (yours or a beneficiary’s)
John Hicks for all their help. • New family members
Gary and Vicki Edwards • Home or property sold or purchased
• Change in financial situation or assets
WODFF • Sold stock or other assets
Thank you for continuing to post the • Change of state residence
notice of our upcoming Simi Valley Break-
• Change in tax laws
fast meetings in the Grapevine. Please accept
this donation from Firehouse Café Breakfast
Klatch. Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association Visit
Thank you kindly. members in good standing are entitled to FIREMENSRELIEF.ORG
for details
Gary Shelford a one-time, reimbursement Estate
Planning Benefit of up to $600. Members
WODFF
also can submit a request for a one-year
financial advancement of up to $1,200 for
Please accept this donation from the the exclusive use of trust preparation.
Antelope Valley Fireman’s Breakfast Club.

Lon F. Roberts

LAFRA
Get your Estate Planning
Please accept this donation as a way of “Getting Started Kit” today
honoring Mike Meadows who documented in
photos so many Firefighter’s actions.
by calling Marlene Casillas,
Development & Marketing
Doris A. Conn (Wife of John “Jack” Conn)
Director, at (323) 259-5217 or
emailing MCasillas@LAFRA.org
April 2022 • 51
 Donations to Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firefighter’s Fund

NETWORK FOR GOOD VERNA IONATA in memory of David Freeman

2
Ardis Willey
CORY M. TAILLON JOY FLEMING in tribute to Th
THE BLACKBAUD GIVING Joseph Fleming ye
CPR PLUS CORPORATE FUND wa
VERONICA GAMINO
W
GARY T. SHELFORD from the SEBASTIAN VELA in memory of
W
Firehouse Cafe Breakfast Klatch William E. Shern KATHY JOHNSON in memory of
me
Rick Chew
JAMES R. HAW in memory of SEBASTIAN VELA in memory of Ev
Bruce E. Clemens Rick R. Chew CARRIE KONJOYAN in honor of Pr
Alexander Dagen Hill se
DORIS A. CONN in memory of CHRIS SHAW in memory of Th
Carl Long Bruce Bergquist DAVID KUEBLER in memory of fin
John Burgan as
DENNIS T. SMITH in memory of CHRIS SHAW in memory of Fir
Don De Porter Lillian Hoglund, wife of Captain TIMOTHY LARSON in memory of
To
Ed Hoglund Richard Rush
are
RALPH L. LA PREZIOSA in
Co
memory of Rick Chew MELANIE ALLEN in memory of RON LEYDECKER in memory of
Glenn Allen Rick Chew Ou
JEANINE L. WALLACE lau
ROBERT AND MARY BECK in RON LEYDECKER in memory of pu
SHAUN DAVIS from the memory of Frank Stassi Bill Shern Th
Fire Extinguisher Fund wh
GARY CARR in memory of MICHAEL TOBEY in memory of ou
CHARITYVEST INC. in memory John Burgan Joe Dupee ev
of Steve Engh
Re
GARY CARR in memory of MICHAEL TOBEY in memory of
JANET R. BOOTH in memory of David Freeman Fire 3: FF/PM Mike Butler, FF/
Robert C. Bullard LPM Eric Reiner, and A/O Mike
DAN FADDEN in memory of McComb

Joh
Bo

52 • April 2022
2021 Annual Report
This last year proved to be very challenging with the uncertainty of COVID-19 and its variants. During the
year, we adapted to the ever-changing environment by adjusting our strategy to navigate these uncharted
waters being ever aware of our members’ needs.
We ended the year on a first – we hit $2B in assets thanks to our loyal members and dedicated employees.
We also closed the year strong with $15.3M net income before paying out $2M in profit sharing to our
member/owners.
Even though the year was filled with uncertainty with ups-and-downs, we ended with a strong Net
Promoter Score (NPS) of 81% which is amongst the highest in the industry. This metric measures our
service level to our members.
The Fire Family Foundation was able to support our fire families in need by providing over $50,000 in
financial support and awarded $50,000 in scholarships to the children of fire families. We also continued to
assist many of our members with their investments through Firehouse Financial, their insurance needs with
Firefighter Insurance Services and estate planning with Trust Services.
Today, we serve over 56,000 members in over 824 fire departments nationwide. A majority of our employees
are now full time remote. Many of our team members have also moved to our original home at 1520 W
Colorado in Pasadena. As a result, we have decided to put our headquarters building up for sale.
Our business plan goals and projects also continued throughout 2021. We listened to our members and
launched Zelle (a new payments solution), a new VISA Signature Card that pays 2% rewards across all
purchases, and digital receipts, check ordering, and wire requests all through our mobile channel.
Thanks to our members, Board of Directors, and employees, for the success of this amazing organization
which was built By Firefighters For Firefighters. We remain safe and sound, look forward to continuing
our efforts in improving the financial lives of our fire family and ensuring that we have proud members
everywhere.
Respectfully submitted,

John A. Buck Dixie T. Abramian

Board Chair Chief Executive Officer

This Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration.

April 2022 • 53
 Submitted by Engineer Don Nash, FS 38-B

LAFD Historical Society Photo Archive

Nelson’s Women’s Apparel Fire
In the past 12 years of working in the
LAFD Historical Society’s photo archive, I’ve
managed to digitize a large number of im-
ages found in our library. These images were
taken by the LAFD Photo Unit. In the early
2000’s, the Historical Society acquired over a
hundred years of LAFD photographic history
from the LAFD. Many of the envelops of film
and negatives have the name of the incident or
address with no other details. A vast majority
are 35mm slides with no information at all. We
will be sharing these images periodically here
in the Grapevine.
Here is a set of 35mm slide photos from
the Nelson’s Women’s Apparel Fire in April
1973. This incident was located at Spring and
Hill Streets in Downtown Los Angeles.

54 • April 2022
April 2022 • 55
 LOS ANGELES FIREMEN’S RELIEF ASSOCIATION MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES
February 2, 2022
CALL TO ORDER also noted that the order for Trustee shirts will
be placed soon. Any trustee who wants a shirt
President Jeff Cawdrey called the Meeting of needs to get their request in as soon as possible.
the Board of Trustees of the Los Angeles Fire-
men’s Relief Association to order at 10:05 a.m. 1) Pension Update: Jeff Cawdrey provided a
(Today’s meeting conducted via conference call Pension Board meeting update. Jeff will be pre-
and in person due to National Emergency of senting the Medical Plan Renewal on Thursday,
Coronavirus) March 3 to the Pension Board. This will take
place virtually. The Medical committee is cur-
ROLL CALL rently working on the medical plan renewal.
Heather Leavitt and Dawna Gray will present
MEMBERS PRESENT: the plan renewal to the committee at the Febru-
Jeff Cawdrey – President ary 16 meeting. We are in the fourth year of our
Chris Stine – Vice President contact that ends in June 2023.
Trustee Frank Aguirre
Trustee Kenneth Breskin Jeff Cawdrey provided updates on the Pen-
Trustee Chris Bustamante sion Board Commissioners. Belinda Vega has
Trustee Jim Duffy stepped down from the Pension Board and is
Trustee J.D. Fox now a member of the airport commission. The
Trustee Tim Freeman Fire active commissioner term is expiring on
Trustee Henry Gasbarri June 30, 2022. Applications are being accepted
Trustee Rick Godinez February 23 to March 4.
Trustee Jeff Halloran
Trustee John Jacobsen 2) Member Indebtedness Policy: Jeff Cawdrey
Trustee John Marasco advised there was a meeting with the staff in
Trustee Gayle Sonoda Members Services and Accounting Departments
Trustee Joe Vigil regarding communication to members on mon-
Trustee Brian Wall ies owed and providing members of the relief
Trustee Craig White committee with status updates. Changes are be-
Trustee Danny Wu ing made to correspondences generated through
Trustee Juan Albarran – Pension FRITS to the members. Todd Layfer mentioned
Trustee Steve Berkery – Pension that reports from FRITS on persons on leave
Trustee Steve Tufts – Pension with no pay and persons on assistance would be
Todd Layfer – Executive Director forthcoming.
Liberty Unciano – Controller/Treasurer
3) Drill Tower Presentation: Jeff Cawdrey ad-
MEMBERS ABSENT: vised there will be a presentation at FS 40 for
Trustee Mike Sailhamer the graduation of 36 candidates. The presenta-
Trustee Tyler Tomich tion will be on the Tuesday, February 8 and Ana
Salazar, Member Services, will join him. The
INVOCATION & Flag Salute purpose of the presentation is to provide infor-
mation to the class of the Relief benefits avail-
Rick Godinez led the invocation. Steve Berkery able.
led the flag salute.
4) Buzzard Bait: Jeff Cawdrey gave a report on
RATIFICATION OF ACTION & MINUTES the 25th Buzzard Bait held over January 14-
17, 2022. It was a lot of fun and well attended.
Jeff Cawdrey entertained a motion to approve The final numbers on the monies generated are
the December 1, 2021 and January 5, 2022 still being calculated. The organizers and their
Board Meeting Minutes. Henry Gasbarri so families work really hard putting on a wonderful
moved. Chris Bustamante seconded. There was event for members and families.
no discussion or objections.
5) Pechanga Reunion: The LAFRA Pechanga
Motion carried to approve the December 1, Reunion has been scheduled for May 23-27,
2021 and January 5, 2022 Board Meeting 2022. Juan Albarran noted there has been no
Minutes. change to the event floorplan from prior years
and they will proceed with the same floorplan
this year. Some requests will be made to the
PRESIDENT’S REPORT Marketing Department for changes to the flyer.
Trustees are encouraged to submit any recom-
Jeff Cawdrey, before beginning his President’s mendations they may have for the event.
Report, reminded the board about each mem-
ber submitting their signed Business Associ-
ate Agreement (BAA) as soon as possible. He
56 • April 2022
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Jeff Cawdrey entertained a motion to move into
an Executive Session for voting members of the
board. Frank Aguirre so moved. Kenneth Bre-
skin seconded.
The Board entered into Executive Session at
10:22 a.m. The Board adjourned from Executive
Session at 11:38 a.m.
Member updates, Consulting contracts and Ad-
min committee matters were discussed during
Executive Session. Actions were taken.
VICE PRESIDENT’S REPORT
1) Chris Stine reported on the upcoming 2022
Conferences dates and enrollment information.
Any trustee interested in attending should email
Chris as soon as possible. The first conference is
coming up April 25-26 for Healthcare and April
27-28 for Investment. Washington Legislative
Update is the same time as Pechanga Reunion.
As such, there will be a limit on the number of
attendees.
Chris advised that the President’s salary was
approved during the Executive Session of the
January Board Meeting. He presented a motion
to approve action taken on President’s compen-
sation. There was no discussion or objections.
Motion carried to approve President’s compen-
sation from the January Executive Session.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR REPORT
1) Member Profile Report: Todd Layfer men-
tioned that the Member Profile Report is sent
out annually. It is a summary of all the cover-
ages and benefits that members have available to
them. This will go out in March 2022.
2) Alternate Revenue Sources: Todd Layfer re-
minded the Board of alternative revenue sources
that are generated from royalties from a Texas
based asset. This has been a good revenue re-
source for Widows & Orphans, especially when
events have been adversely impacted by Covid-
19.
3) FRITS 3.0: Todd Layfer gave an update on
FRITS 3.0 progress. He is continuing to have
discussions with Bob Dillon and Liz Denison on
this project. Working with software experts they
are developing a roadmap of the future technol-
ogy landscape for LAFRA. This is a very chal-
lenging and complex project.
4) Audit Dates: Todd Layfer advised the pre-
liminary audit will be taking place on April 11-
15, 2022. The final phase, which is called field
work, will be happening on April 25-29, 2022.
The Audit Committee will convene in mid-
March to discuss planning.
INVESTMENT COMMITTEE REPORT
Jeff Cawdrey advised that a visit to Beacon
Pointe has been scheduled for Tuesday, February
22, 2022. The committee is advised to let John
Jacobsen know of their availability to attend
the meeting so the information can be relayed
to Beacon Pointe. Todd Layfer mentioned that
two money managers and their Chief Investment
Officer Michael Dow will speak and the fourth
quarter investments portfolio performance will
be discussed.
AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT
Joe Vigil noted there is nothing to report at this
time. The 2022 audit dates were provided to the
board by Todd Layfer.
BUILDING COMMITTEE REPORT
Juan Albarran advised that Trevor Inouye noted
that a building smoke alarm went off and they
are investigating the cause. The building’s cable
service has been changed to Spectrum from Di-
recTV. This amounts to a cost savings of about
$1,000 annually.
ADMINISTRATIVE COMMITTEE
REPORT
Brian Wall presented the following motions.
The committee recommends and I so move to
pay the usual and customary bills in the amount
of
$1,181,980.57. There was no discussion or ob-
jections.
Motion carried to pay the usual and customary
bills in the amount of $1,181,980.57
There was a request to replace a memorial
plaque at Fire Station 30. There have been stolen
plaques from other stations. The approximate
cost to replace a plaque is $500.
Motion carried to purchase a replacement
plaque at Fire Station 30 at a cost of up to $500.
A notice on the LAFD portal went out for all sta-
tions to move their memorial plaques to a more
secure location on the interior of the stations to
prevent future theft.
MEDICAL COMMITTEE REPORT
Frank Aguirre presented the following motion.
The committee recommends and I so move to
approve the medical plan bills totaling
$1,035,076.76. There was no discussion or ob-
jections.
Motion carried to approve the Medical Plan
bills totaling $1,035,076.76.
Frank Aguirre provided an update that Patricia
“Pati” Madrigal, the new HealthComp coordina-
tor is up and running on the LAFRA account.
RELIEF COMMITTEE REPORT
Steve Berkery presented the following motion.
The committee recommends and I so move to
pay:
The Sick & Injury benefits for Active & Retired
in the amount of $23,872.47 The Estate Plan-
ning benefit in the amount of $5,850
The Life & Accident Withdrawals of $0
The Assistance Committee in the amount of
$18,197.64 The Emergency Advancements in
the amount of $5,168.60
The Widows & Orphans Disabled Firefighters
donations in the amount of $46,632.12 The Life
and Accident Death Benefit in the amount of
$12,000
The Relief Death Benefits in the amount of
$5,000
Motion carried to pay the above Relief benefits.
Steve Berkery read the names of members who
recently passed and asked for a moment of si-
lence from the Board.
MEMORIALS
William R. James
GRAPEVINE COMMITTEE REPORT
Grapevine Editor John Hicks is looking for re-
tired members to provide updates similar to Bat-
talion News.
SECRETARY’S REPORT
There was nothing to report.
BY-LAW COMMITTEE REPORT
In the absence of Jim Duffy, the board was ad-
vised there was nothing to report.
SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE REPORT
Rick Godinez reported on the updates for the
2022 Scholarships. The open date for applica-
tions is March 1 and March 31 is the close date,
at 5:00 p.m. The essay will take place on Sat-
urday, April 9 at 8:00 a.m. The scholarships are
for high school seniors only. Announcements
will be in the February through April Grapevine
magazine issues and is available on the website.
MARKETING & DEVELOPMENT
COMMITTEE REPORT
Rick Godinez reported that in December 2021
we received $15,289 in online donations which
is
$3,600 over last year, and one of the largest sin-
gle month totals ever.
The department has been working on the Pow-
erPoint presentation and collateral pieces for the
new recruits for the Drill Tower Presentation on
Tuesday, February 8.
With regards to Golf/LAFD Invitational, the
2022 digital brochure has been completed and
is up on the Widows & Orphans website. Ac-
companying online forms for registration and
sponsorship are being updated.
Research and soliciting for the 2022 Salute to
Firefighters Online Auction has already begun.
If anyone has any ideas or any contacts/con-
nections that would be willing to donate items,
goods, services, certificates, etc., please pass the
information along to April Hood.
The LA Marathon & Charity Challenge (1/2
marathon) races are happening on Sunday,
March 20, 2022. We are actively looking for fif-
teen (15) runners to participate on the LA Fire
Team Hero Squad. With pandemic concerns
and timing of the 2021 event, it is understood
that this is a challenging ask at this time. Please
share the information and encourage those will-
ing and able to participate to sign up. There are
in-person and virtual options available.
NEW BUSINESS
There was no new business discussed at this
meeting.
OLD BUSINESS
None.
SETTING OF MEETING DATES
Hook & Ladder Enduro is taking place on Sat-
urday, March 19.
The next committee meetings will take place on
Wednesday, February 16. The next board meet-
ing will be on Wednesday, March 2.
RETIREMENT DINNERS
Jeff Cawdrey informed the board of the follow-
ing retirement dinners:
Marty Rivera on February 10 at the Slate Grill in
Camarillo. Steve Tufts is handling. Steve Winn
on March 26 at the Bonaventure Brewery. Steve
Tufts is handling.
Jeff Cawdrey attended a dinner for Eric S. An-
derson (Captain I, FS 49) a couple of weeks ago.
ADJOURNMENT
Jeff Cawdrey entertained a motion to adjourn.
Henry Gasbarri so moved. Brian Wall seconded.
There was no discussion and no objections.
Motion carried to adjourn. The Board of Trust-
ees meeting adjourned at 12:02 p.m.
Jeff Cawdrey, President
April 2022 • 57
 CLASSIFIEDS
For advertising information, please contact:
Eric Santiago - (323) 259-5231 - eric@lafra.org
HOME FOR LEASE
HOME FOR LEASE IN THOU-
SAND OAKS. 4 bedroom,
2 bath with fireplace. Quiet
family oriented street. Neigh-
borhood close to Cal Lu-
theran University. Pet friendly.
Available August 1. $4150.
(805)750-8626.
SERVICES
BUSY BEAVER TREE AND
LANDSCAPE. Tree trimming
and removal, stumpgrinding,
and firewood sales. Mixed
firewood, eucalyptus and oak.
Delivery available or pick up.
Licensed and insured. Dwayne
Kastor, FS 63-B - (818) 535-
6368.
CRAIG SANFORD HEAT-
ING & AIR - Free estimates,
residential, commercial. Great
rates for LAFD and LAPD.
Toll free (877) 891-1414,
(661) 298-3070, FAX (661)
298-3069. State License No.
527114
KEVIN LOCKHART ROOF-
ING & CONSTRUCTION
Roofing repair and mainte-
nance, construction water-
proofing solutions. Kevin
Lockhart 18 A (661)810-4980
lic #536528
MONDAY MORNING TRUST
(714) 929-1040. $595 Full liv-
ing trust packages (trust, will,
p.O.A finances/healthcare,
d.N.R.). Bradley Ball - 11801
Pierce St. #200 Riverside
CA 92505. Riverside lDA #
000392. I am not an attorney,
I can only provide “self-help”
services at your specific direc-
tion.
REAL ESTATE & MORTGAG-
ES. We all know someone
58 • April 2022
in the business, that doesn’t
mean you shouldn’t shop. No
obligation free quotes. You
work hard for your money;
keep more of it. Buying,
selling, or financing, call me,
John Sullivan (310) 961-8282.
West Shores Realty, Inc. DRE
#01260041, NMLS #2010982
REBEKAH KEARNS PHO-
TOGRAPHY. Family + Event
Photography. rebekahkearns
photography.com
rebekah@rebekahkearns
photography.com
insta@rkearnsphoto
LAFD Family
VACATION
RENTALS
AZ - VACATION RENTALS.
Home to Spring Training, Bar-
rett Jackson Auto Auction, and
Arabian Horse Show – West-
World. Two homes.
1. Walking distance to Sloan
Park - Chicago Cubs Spring
Training Fields, 3+2 - Pool -
Putting Green – Mesa
@cubbiehousemesaaz
2. Walking distance to Scott-
sdale Stadium and 10 minute
drive to Salt River Talking Stick
Fields and Tempe Diablo Sta-
dium. 3+1 - Old Town Scotts-
dale @scottsdale76th
Call us – Rod, FS-56B or
Diana: (661)294-0971 to book
direct and avoid the short-term
rental platform fees.
BEAUTIFUL BIG BEAR
CABIN. Two-story with vaulted
ceiling, 2BD/1BA . Close to
lake, shops, skiing, and for-
est. Great deck, lots of trees,
fireplace/wood, cable TV/WiFi,
BBQ, fully equipped except
linens. 6-person max , pets ok.
$150/winter, $140/summer,
2-night min. Contact Donna at
(760) 723-1475 or DnBeep@
gmail.com. See photos at
www.schaffercabin.com
GORGEOUS WATERFRONT
RIVERHOUSE on the lagoon
of the Colorado River for rent.
Family home-5 bedrooms,
large bonus room for kids, 4
1/2 baths . Sleeps 15. Fully
loaded with top of the line
appliances. Private launch
ramp. No pets. No smoking.
No large parties or events.
Contact: Gigi (714)454-0922
(Spouse-LAFD) for special
firefighter family rates and for
snowbirds Check out details:
https://airbnb.com/h/theriv-
erhousevacationhome
GORGEOUS YOSEMITE
GATEWAY ESTATE. Located
in the picturesque Mariposa
countryside on 6+ acres with
a disc golf course! Perfect
family getaway spot with horse
shoes, billiards, ping pong,
badminton, tether ball, and
board games! 3 bedrooms ,
2 full bath with Master jacuzzi
tub. Sleeps 9. Hike scenic
Yosemite or just stay put and
enjoy all the amenities our
home has to offer! View at
https://airbnb.com/h/laestrel
layosemite, or La Estrella
Vacation Rental on YouTube.
Rates seasonal from $300
plus/night. Call or text Vince
Nixon (retired LAFD) for 15%
FF discount! 805-585-8808
GRAND CANYON/ WIL-
LIAMS, ARIZONA. 4 bed,
3 bath Historic Home one
block from Route 66. WALK
to everything! 8 person MAX.
No special events. Gorgeous
house. Unique property.
www.HistoricYellowHouse.
com
Listed on National Register of
Historic Places Grand Canyon
Railway, Bearizona, Elephant
Rocks Golf Course. Call
Kerry-Lynn Moede (602) 818-
6559 JDMoede@aol.com
HAVASU/BOATERS.
3bdrm(2king,1full) 2bath, turn-
key, w/d, WiFi, Dish, gas bbq,
1/2 mile to Windsor launch,
covered gated boat parking,
3 nites $450, $100 for each
additional nite- cleaning in-
cluded, pics available. Email:
rickpuglisi1103@msn.com
(626) 665-9890
HAVASU LANDING
3 Bd, 2 BTH home, sleeps
6-7. Gated Community. Fully
furnished, pano view of lake.
Wi-fi, direct TV, flat screens and
BBQ. Clubhouse, pool, spa and
rec. center steps away. Califor-
nia side of Lake Havasu. Enjoy
the casino, two launch ramps
or the 12 min catamaran
shuttle to London Bridge. No
Smoking/Pets. $175 nt. Week-
days, $225 nt. Fr-Sat. Excl.
Holidays. 2 nt. min. Cleaning
fee of $125. Call Tony Wren
760-688-6082 LACoFD for
questions and pics.
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA
HOME. Across the street from
Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
3Bed/2Bath in town of Speed-
way. Walk or bike to Main St.
Short drive, 7 miles, to Lucas
Oil Stadium, Downtown Indy,
Riverfront, Museums, Etc.
Available most dates except
May 20 to 27. Call Tina or
Craig at 805/377-0686 or
805/377-3640
JUNE LAKE CABIN. 2BR/2BA
cabin with Carson Peak View.
Sleeps 8. Within a mile of fish-
ing & skiing. Close to Mam-
moth and Yosemite. Spacious
living room, kitchen, and wood
deck. Smart TV and Wifi.
$150/night plus cleaning fee.
Email for pictures. Brian Smith
LAFD (310)872-7311.
junecabin52@gmail.com
LAKE HAVASU AMAZING
LAKEVIEW POOL HOME.
1800 sq.ft. built 2018, 3
bed, 2 bath, sleeps 8. (King,
Queen, Full 2xTwin). Finished
backyard with pool and spa.
Fully furnished w/ linens, WiFi,
internet TV, laundry, large
kitchen, BBQ, 2 car garage.
Quiet neighborhood. 3 miles
from launch ramp. No pets /
no smoking. Call Karen (661)
965-0542.
LAKE HAVASU LANDING
RESORT. 3 bedroom, 2 bath,
waterfront house, boat, moor-
ing out front, fully furnished,
laundry, gas BBQ, launch
ramp, gated community, gro-
cery store, hardware store. No
pets, no smoking. Email Kathy
at scarkj@yahoo.com or call
(760) 858-4470
LAKE HAVASU BEAUTY
FOR RENT - 3 bdrm, 2 bath,
1600 sq.ft. Fully furnished
with all amenities- Laundry &
BBQ. 13,000 sq.ft. lot. 3 car
boat-deep garage. 3 miles
from launch ramp. Close to
downtown shops & restau-
rants. View of the lake. Quiet
street in good neighborhood.
No pets. No smoking. Snow-
bird rates. Call Mike (661)
510-6246
LAKE HAVASU LANDING.
TH1-29, Waterfront, 3 BD 3
BA, Furnished, Direct-TV,
DVD, WiFi, BBQ, Moor-
ing, Casino, Market, Launch
Ramp, Marina, Off Road
Trails, Gated, No Smoking/
Pets, $275 Weekday, $795
Weekend Fr-Sat, $1895 Week
7 Days, Maid $100, Resort
TOT fee 25% of total bill, bring
pillows and sheets, (310) 418-
1577, daggertooth@aol.com
LAKE HAVASU LANDING
RESORT BEACHFRONT
HOME with boat mooring.
Swim, ski or fish from front
yard. 4 bed/2 bath, fully fur-
nished. DirectTV/DVD/WiFi,
pool table, laundry, BBQ.
Gated community with casino,
groceries, marina, launch ramp
and off-road trails. No pets, no
smoking. $350 Bowen/Garner
email:
havasulanding27@gmail.com
LAKE HAVASU POOL HOME.
1900 sq. ft. remodeled 3 bdrm,
3 1/2 baths, sleeps 8. (1 King,
2 queens). Backyard with pool,
jacuzzi with underwater lights.
Fully furnished w/ linens, laun-
dry, WIFI, INTERNET, TVs,
BBQ. $150 weekdays, $250
weekends, $125 cleaning fee.
2 night minimum. No smoking.
Call Gabe Moreno or email
fightin25@yahoo.com
LARGE LAKE HAVASU
HOME FOR RENT – 5
bedroom, 3 bath, 2900 sqft
home with amenities & pool
that easily sleeps 14+ people.
Centrally located, 1 mile from
the lake, close to downtown
shops and restaurants. Check
out home at
https://www.vrbo.
com/4648549ha
Call Julie 818-268-7906 for
special firefighter family rates.
LOG CABIN NEAR JACK-
SON HOLE WY: Close to
Snake River, Grand Tetons,
Yellowstone, World Class Ski-
ing. Call (818) 207-0811 LAFD
Retired. Visit: www.aspenhill
cabin.com for all information.
MAMMOTH CONDO, La
Vista Blanc, Cozy 2 BD 2
BA, Furnished, WiFi, Cable,
Pool, Spa, BBQ, Sleeps 4,
Winter $120, Summer $90,
Maid $175, 14% TOT(6092),
No Smoking, (310) 540-4648,
pvignery@aol.com, (310) 418-
1577, daggertooth@aol.com
MAMMOTH CONDO AT
MAMMOTH ESTATES.
4BR/3BA, sleeps 10, fully
furnished, 2 TVs, DVDs, WiFi,
towels/linens, fireplace. Full
kitchen. Walk to Gondola
Village and shuttle. Complex
has pool, spa, sauna, laundry.
Winter $355/night, Summer
$240/night, plus cleaning.
Includes city bed tax. No pets,
no smoking. Dory Jones (310)
918-0631 or Kelly Corcoran
(310) 619-5355
MAMMOTH CONDO. Two
bedrooms, Large loft. Three
full bathrooms. Sleeps 8. Walk
to Canyon Lodge. DVD, Cable,
Wifi, Pool, Spa, Rec. Room,
BBQ. Winter $175 Sun - Thurs
$195 Fri /Sat Holiday Periods.
Summer $150 Plus Clean-
ing. No Smoking or Pets. Call
Craig Yoder (909) 948-3659.
MAMMOTH CONDO. Up-
dated 2 bedroom 1 bath old
mammoth/ eagle lodge area.
Sleeps 5. Fully equipped
kitchen, wifi, pool, spa, laun-
dry. Walk to restaurants, bars,
stores, park and trolly. Winter
$175 summer $130 plus clean-
ing fee, holiday rates vary,
multiple night discounts. No
pets.Contact Will Nevins 26”B”
(714) 697-2587
MAMMOTH CONDO IN
SNOWCREEK IV
Super nice 2 bedroom / 2
bathroom located in FANTAS-
TIC Snowcreek IV. *PETS
WELCOME! King, Double
Queen bunk, & trundle, Nicely
furnished with high-end appli-
ances. Fully stocked kitchen.
Washer/Dryer in the unit.
Pricing varies by season and
demand. Exceptional condo!
Goldencreek637@gmail.
com, 909-576-2025, Web-
site: https://goldencreek637.
wixsite.com/mysite
MAMMOTH CONDO AT THE
WOODLANDS - Spacious
& sunny. 2 bedroom, loft, &
2 baths. Sleeps 8. Cable
HDTV, DVD, & Wi-Fi. Pool,
Jacuzzi, & sauna in complex.
On shuttle route. No smoking
& no pets. $150/night winter,
$115/night summer. Plus
cleaning and bed tax. Call
Terry Imlay (949)322-3473 or
(949)458-0768
MAMMOTH LAKES - One
bedroom, extremely charming
wildflower condo. Full ameni-
ties, close to shuttle. Antiques,
art, satellite TV, fireplace.
Sleeps 4. Winter $110, Sum-
mer $85 plus cleaning fees.
Call Bill Clark (818) 371-6722
Email: shakesong@aol.com
MAMMOTH SEASONS 4
CONDO. Cozy 1 bedroom
condo with full-size pullout
couch and bonus room with
twin size bunkbed that com-
fortably sleeps 4 adults and 2
children. Conveniently located
15 min walk between the Vil-
lage and Canyon Lodge at 244
Lakeview Blvd. Visit https://
www.seasons4.com/94269/
for pics, amenities, and
reviews. $125/night; off-peak
(May, June, Oct, Nov): $100/
night; cleaning: $100. Bobby
(310) 350-5552.
MAMMOTH SNOW CREEK
IV. Beautiful 2bd 2ba 1140sqft.
Check us out at Airbnb.com/h/
ourdeerfriendsretreat for avail-
ability. Email us directly for fire
family pricing. OurDeerFriend
sretreat@gmail.com. Shane
Hirsch(LAFD) 714-803-9324
NASHVILLE CONDO. Two
bedroom condo, sleeps 6, in
Downtown Nashville. Walk-
ing distance to Broadway St,
hockey and NFL stadium.
Contact Wayne, LAFD @
(805) 796-7863 for availability
and price.
PALM DESERT CONDO.
Montery Sands, 3 BD 2 BA,
Furnished, WiFi, Cable, Pool,
Jacuzzi, Tennia, Sleeps 6 max,
$150 Night, $800 Week, $2950
Month, Maid $150, 11%
TOT(STR2019-0002), Up
Charge for Concerts, No
Smoking/Pets,
(310) 418-1577, dagger-
tooth@aol.com
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE Ro-
mantic Chalet Family getaway.
3 bed/2 bath plus loft. Sleeps
8–10. Cable TV, washer/dryer,
microwave, woodburning stove.
7 minutes to casinos and
Heavenly. Located in Tahoe
Paradise. $115 per night plus
cleaning. Call Shawn or Rose
Agnew at (661) 250-9907 or
(661) 476-6288.
WATERFRONT RIVER-
HOUSE ON THE LAGOON
OF THE COLORADO RIVER
for rent. Beautiful family home-
5 bedrooms, large bonus room
for kids, 4 1/2 baths,Sleeps
15. Fully loaded with top of the
line appliances. Private launch
ramp. No pets. No smoking.
Contact: Gigi (714)454-0922
(Spouse-LAFD) for special fire-
fighter family rates. Check out
details: https://airbnb.com/h/
theriverhousevacationhome
For advertising info,
please contact:
Eric Santiago @
eric@lafra.org
April 2022 • 59
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60 • April 2022
 On March 16, 1999 at 0511 hours, an alarm went out in Fire Station 8’s first in. Located at 11131 Tampa Avenue in
Porter Ranch, OCD was first notified by a LAPD Patrol Unit who noticed smoke coming from the second floor of a structure
occupied by a restaurant. Captain Reiss on Engine 8 was first on scene and led his crew into the second floor parking lot
entrance with a 1 3/4 “ line, crawling on the floor to access the fire. Other companies arrived on scene and opened up
the restaurant’s 1st floor windows, bringing oxygen to the suffocating but still well-established fire, causing a flashover.
Luckily, Captain Reiss and his firefighters were able to back safely out of the well-involved structure and take a defensive
stance. LAFD Arson Investigators later determined the gasoline fed fire had been developing in the first-floor restaurant from
the previous evening. LAFD Arson Investigators eventually arrested the owner of the restaurant at his location in Northern
California. Photos: David Blaire. Information: Retired Captain I Jack Reiss FS 8, A Platoon.

RETRACTION
In February’s Tailboard, all of the Firefighters name are correct except for the Captain. The Captain’s name was
Archie Woodyard. Our apologies to the Woodyard family.

April 2022 • 61
 Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association
7470 N Figueroa Street
Los Angeles CA 90041-1725

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