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2 June 2014
VOL. XC
JUNE 2014
NO. 11
FEATURES
10 Steps to Improve Your Listening Skills
Great leaders know that great listening skills build trust and help to
get things done. So take this quiz and help to enhance your relationships with co-workers, family and friends. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 06
CONTENTS
Presidents Message ................................................................................05
Battalion News ..........................................................................................12
Retired Guys .............................................................................................27
Retirement Dinner Announcement ............................................................30
LAFD Golf Club
2014 Memorial Championship .................................................................31
Department in Action ................................................................................32
Money In Your Mailbox
The Early Retiree Reinsurance Program ................................................39
Station Fridge ...........................................................................................41
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of the advertisements, we urge you to use any and all means at your disposal to investigate them.
COPYRIGHT 2014
Classifieds ................................................................................................57
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FIREMENS GRAPEVINE
owned and published by the
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Andrew Kuljis ........................................................Secretary
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Barry Hedberg
Chris Hart
Chris Stine
Craig White
David Lowe
David Ortiz
www.cpc.mednet.ucla.edu
Greg W. Gibson...................Chaplain
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George A. Negrete...............Chaplain
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appy mid-year to everybody! This month marks the halfway point for 2014. As we move into the second half of
2014 I would like to remind you of the Relief Medical
plan changes coming July 1, 2014. These are listed below:
PPO Office Visit Co-pay increasing from $10 to
$15.
Non-PPO Office Visit Co-pay increasing from $20
to $30.
Injuries and illnesses will be treated the same and
subject to the same co-pays and co-insurances.
Body Scan benefit changed to once every three
years.
At the completion of our Open Enrollment period in
April, we tentatively added 75 new people (members and family).
The good news is that ERRP funds will allow us to reimburse both mail and retail RX co-pays (generic and brand), in
addition to continuing to reimburse the PPO office visit co-pays
(Please check your EOBS or go online to register with Health
Scope Benefits and receive your co-pay via direct deposit). This
will continue till the ERRP funds are exhausted. Please check this
months Grapevine for a more informative overview of the ERRP.
These changes dont come easily . . . so as part of the
new and improved Affordable Care Act, we will need to increase
premiums as follows, 2% for active members and 7% for retirees.
Your LAFRA staff and organization received some inhouse training in the following areas: Communications
Essentials, Conflict Resolution and Customer Service.
This training was informative and very applicable to
our mission here at LAFRA. These seminars were provided by Robert Kenney Ph.D. Robert was also kind
enough to provide us with an article entitled An Active Listening Quiz that appears on page six of this
months issue. This information should be especially
useful to our new crop of recently promoted captains.
LAFRA would like to recognize all of our
newly appointed captains. Dont forget what it means
to be a part of this great organization. Stay positively
involved. There is no greater gift that you can give to
the organization than your time, talent and a hand to
help others.
I attended the retirees gathering at the Hometown Buffet in Garden Grove and the Fire Service Day
Juan Albarran
(323) 259-5200
president@lafra.org
June 2014 5
6 June 2014
Great leaders and coaches know that
great listening skills build trust, create credibility, lend support and help to get things done.
And very significantly, if you listen to others
they are much more likely to listen to you. So
take the following quiz and see if improving
your listening skills can help enhance your
relationships with co-workers, family and
friends.
Topping Response
The phrases: Thats nothing, you
should have seen..., When that happened
to me, I..., You think that you have it bad,
well I...
This approach shifts attention from
the person who wants to be heard and leaves
him/her feeling unimportant.
Diagnosing, Psychoanalytic Response
The phrases: What you need is...,
The reason that you feel the way you do...,
You really dont mean that..., Do you know
what your problem is; I think that you...
Most people do not want to be told
how they should feel or why they should or
should not feel a certain way...people would
rather volunteer their feelings, instead of
having them exposed.
take note of your responses to help build your
active listening skills.
1) Postural and visual cues - leaning a bit
towards the person, keeping an open physical position (no crossed arms), and nodding
your head. Regular eye contact (not staring
down the other) to show that you are paying
attention.
Y S N
2) Open-ended questions to encourage a greater level of sharing and a more detailed understanding. How...? Why...? Then what...?
Y S N
3) Not assuming in advance that the topic is
uninteresting or unimportant. Y S N
4) Repeat what the other has said in your own
words. Restate your perception of the feelings
expressed by the other person.
Y S N
5) Be aware of your feelings as a listener emotions like anger, dislike, and defensiveness
cause us to not hear what is said and sometimes
to hear things that are not said (selective attention).
Y S N
6) Not allowing yourself to get over-stimulated if you begin to mentally oppose an idea be open-minded.
Y S N
7) Be empathetic - try to understand the
speaker from his/her emotional viewpoint. Put
yourself in the speakers place.
Y S N
8) Do not let your mind wander or daydream;
do not do too many things at once (e.g.,
answering phone, texting). Y S N
9) Wait before responding, and do not rehearse
what you will say instead of listening.
Y S N
10) Do not pretend to be attentive or to
understand - if you get lost, admit it and ask for
further explanation.
Y S N
Roadblocks to Effective Communication
Below is a partial list of responses that are potential roadblocks to effective
June 2014 7
8 June 2014
The conspicuous actions
taken by these members in rendering aid during life-saving situations, under circumstances which
posed calculated risk to all members involved is in keeping with the
highest traditions of the Los Angeles Fire Department.
Due to their actions performed during emergency conditions requiring initiative and/or
ability worthy of recognition, the
members of Task Force, Squad and
Rescue 87 were awarded Letters of
Special Commendation.
June 2014 9
Quarterly Update
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n April 16, 2014 the Los Angels Firefighters Association honored the 47th Firefighter of the Year, Engineer Dana P. Larsen.
This annual honor is bestowed upon one member each year who,
not by any single act, has distinguished him/herself as one of outstanding
character, dedication, and loyalty to the Department, the Fire Service,
and to the citizens of the community.
The opening ceremonies included the LAFD Color Guard and
John Keys (LAFD retired) on the Bag Pipes. It was a day of celebration and recognition to a man that has done so much for Aircraft Rescue
Firefighting (ARFF) locally at LAX and nationally as an instructor on
ARFF strategy and tactics. Dana has been involved in the design and
development of so many projects on the LAFD including ARFF
Apparatus and the current lightweight 4-way valve we use today.
Danas dedication is not only seen here at the LAFD but in
his own community and church. He is a true volunteer who gives of his
time and incredible skills to the benefit of everyone he helps. Whether as
a teacher in ARFF attended by students from around the globe or to his
students at Northridge Community School, Danas always in service to
improve and develop those that have a desire to learn.
Supported by his wife and three grown kids, Dana provided
all in attendance a perfect reflection as to why we are all so fortunate to
be members of the LAFD. As he put so honestly, Each one of us has
something to give that no one else has. We have all benefited from the
outstanding gifts Dana has provided this Department and a sincere congratulations just doesnt seem enough.
June 2014 11
12 June 2014
What Is The...
Extinguisher Fund?
Firefighters
risk
their
lives
June 2014 13
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June 2014 15
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16 June 2014
Signature:
While FS 114 is one of the Departments newest and most modern firehouses,
that doesnt mean it is one of the safest. When
Pilot 3 Phil Clark said he was attacked by a
spider in his sleep nobody believed him. But
the recent sighting of a Black Widow wearing
Also out at 114s, the command
staff found that they were in need of a new
suburban. Not to be wasteful and to save the
Department the cost of a new vehicle, the very
tech savvy Captain II Ruiz took the old suburban and just had it wrapped and added a little
personal touch! Is Geek Squad synonymous
with Computer Nerd?
June 2014 17
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18 June 2014
June 2014 19
T H U R S D AY J U N E 5 , 2 0 1 4 - F R O M 1 1 : 3 0 A M T O 2 : 3 0 P M
20 CONTACT:
June 2014
June 2014 21
Paid Advertisement:
24s, 74s and 98s responded to a fire in a
workshop in Lakeview Terrace on 4/15/14.
Photos by Doc DeMulle, The Foothills Paper
22 June 2014
Greetings from the Battalion that
never sleeps!
Hope everybody that went to the
annual Dads and Kids Camp out had a
great time! Another year where the kids get
to run around with other kids and dads get to
talk shop with other dads. Full unadulterated
controlled chaos. My question always seems
to be, since the Moms arent around, who is
watching whom? As always, it was another
weekend of dirt, BBQs, dirt, wall-to-wall
activities, dirt, and movies on the big screen
. . . wait, movies on the big screen? Thats
new! Apparently with the help of a large
sheet draped across a trailer and a projector,
everybody was treated to Movie Night. Nice!
Another way to rough it. Glad everybody
had a great time and looking forward to next
year!
With all of the recent negative press,
the powers that be decided that it would be
beneficial to raise the moral of the crews by
naming a Cadet of the Year. There would be
a huge ceremony in front of the whole Fire
Commission with all of the pomp and circumstance. Now, all they needed was an explorer
. . . errr . . . cadet. After much debate, they
decided on Cadet Miles Burton from Battalion
June 2014 23
OK, thats all Ive got! Keep taking
called every station under his command and
care of one another. Stay safe and remember
declared that inspection had been cancelled.
that 2+2 makes sense, play nice, know your
Bravos and Hip, hip hoorays could be
audience, get a cool nickname, figure out
heard throughout the battalion . . . until the
which formula to use before the media gets
next morning when he called back every staahold of it, you get out what you put in, FItion and softly whispered that inspection was
1, read the label, if youre tired sleep in, when
back on. Oh well, back to cleaning.
in need of a driver call an already overworked
The morning of inspection, every800 to do your job, watch out for irony, dont
thing is ready. The sedan pulls up and all of
fumble Tradition, take 1st relief so you can
the members are lined up, ready to snap to
go back to sleep, never Stand By, check
attention and give a solid salute. Everyone
awaits their chief to exit the sedan, but oddly a boxes for politics always beat common sense,
when you have the opportunity to do the right
SOD chief exits the vehicle . . . now the crews
thing, take the EIT spot instead!, a # makes
are very confused! Apparently inspection was
everything seem much nicer, if it rains and
on but he was off. My guess is that originally
he did the right thing, but then got advice from you dont feel like doing your job, just journalize it, when you need to go to the DMV,
a mentor who told him that we dont cancel
wear your uniform, show up late to your own
inspections . . . even though he wasnt going
ceremony, and finally, a bad idea is still a bad
to be there. I think a bad idea, even when it
idea. Keep sending your stories to wattsfire@
comes from someone you may respect, is still
gmail.com
a bad idea. That old saying, you never get a
second chance to make a first inspection really fits here.
E 64 at the Cadet of the Year ceremony
Congratulations
to all of the recent captain
promotions! All of that
hard work and studying finally paid off! Remember,
when you go into your first
command, what it took
to get where you are, and
how a very short time ago
you were sitting in that
other seat. Now is your
chance to make the right
decisions all of the time!
Good luck out there! Use
this leadership opportunity
wisely and make a change
for the good.
24 June 2014
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June 2014 25
Greetings from the 18th hole. Hope
everyone is doing well, so lets get it on.
Lets start at the 43s. Last month
we talked about someones wash and the
underwear he likes to wear (Superman). Well
now lets talk about a guy that likes to bring
all of his dirty clothes from HOME and wash
them at the station. Dude, I mean everything
like his dirty towels, his bedding, his underwear, everything. Now when you asked him
Hey, why do you bring all of your wash from
home?And he answers, Man, I can wash my
stuff for free here. You know you cant say
anything, you just look at a guy like that, what
can you tell him?
Now for something under the heading You had to be there. Weve all heard the
joke: How many somethings does it take to
do this or that? Well, the other day at 43s
you got Capt Alexander, Engineer Mackey,
and A/O Mike Porper (working down) on
E-43. So E-43 gets an EMS for chest pain,
and of course the patient is up a flight of stairs
and you know what that means the Stair
Chair! Well they get the patient down okay
and into the back of RA43, but now the fun
begins. The Captain, Engineer, and the A/O
cant seem to collapse the stair chair. They
had that chair upside-down, sideways and
inside-out before FF Burnes could stop laughing, and you know he can laugh, and collapse
the chair and placed it back onto the rescue. I
remember a Captain once told me as a rookie
to be smarter than the equipment that youre
handling. Well in this case it was smarter than
the three of them.
Now a little something outta 94s.
FS 94 is losing a good one in FF Paul Wingate. Wingate has been transferred to be the
Crew 3 Boss. Now a lot of people didnt know
that FF Wingate has tons of brush experience,
and with his job knowledge and experience,
LA City Crew 3 is in good hands. Another
thing about FF Wingate is that he is the man
for explorer program and has made a positive
impact on many of the kids in the program.
Hell be missed.
One more from 94s. Now at many
of the newer stations being built around the
city the guys and gals have been taking ownership in the station and going a little extra to
make the station look a little better. But 94s
has FF Brant Pulliam, and hes doing the best
that he can - I think. FS 94, if you noticed, has
or had the number 94 in a metal frame with
Send your stories and photos directly to your Battalion News writer
or to the editor at editor@lafra.org
26 June 2014
received a flyer in the mail from the Southern California Gas Company telling me of
all the ways I can save money on my gas
bill. And since I recently had a Smart gas meter installed, the flyer went on to say that I could
also track my gas usage and set up a savins
goal. If I choose my goal as 10% a year, my
gas bill could be reduced by $58 bucks a year.
Look honey, weve saved so much money we
can now afford to fly first class to anywhere!
The companys web site also dont
get into a lot of specifics, but Im guessin the
wife and I would have to take a few more cold
showers, drop the thermostat on the spa to 65
degrees and wed probably have to kick our
stove out to the curb for bulky item pickup.
I can track my gas usage all day long
and view my billin history till the sun sets, but
how else do I reduce my gas bill without usin
less gas? Heck, I could also save a bunch more
money if I didnt buy tires for my car and just
drove around on the rims. Oh sweetheart, its
goin to be a rough ride to Vegas next week!
My electric and water meters are
also Smart, but they havent performed any
I had a friend that died of cancer
and I contacted his spouse to see how she was
getting along. The spouse said she was doing
well, that my friend had discussed all the issues that would come up after his death. She
said that when my friend found out he had six
months to live, he realized he had cared for all
the monetary issues and now needed to prepare
her to care for herself and all of the household
issues. Because of my friends preparation of
his spouse, she is not
burdened with issues
of when to pay bills or
what accounts to pay
them from. Because
she was prepared, she
has been able to cope
a little better with the
loss of my friend, the
love of her life.
Do any of
us know how long
we have to live? At
our age shouldnt we
COWBOY HUMOR
There comes a point
in your life when you
realize:
Who matters,
Who never did,
Who wont anymore
And who always will.
So, dont worry about
people from your
past. Theres a reason
why they didnt make
it to your future.
KEEP SMILIN!
AC
choppedup@att.net
June 2014 27
Lake McClure, located 27 miles east of Merced, has been the Hot Spot for many years.
The Boat & Ski Club reunites for two annual trips each summer. An entire area is
reserved exclusively for family and friends of the LAFD. Each week includes a Meet
& Greet Potluck, Horseshoe and Volleyball Tournaments, Ice Cream Social, Raffles,
Bingo, Tie Dye, Karaoke, and a whole lot more.
Whether you are a Water Skier, Wake Boarded, Skurfer, Air Chairer, Tuber or just a
Sun Bather, there is FUN for Everyone!
A BIG thank you to all of our Supporters and Sponsors: Sports LTD, Knotts
Berry Farm, Interstate Batteries - Sun Valley, Tilleys Marine - Ventura, Eric Ericcsons
- Ventura, Aloha Steakhouse & Charnell Smith - Ventura, Billys Boardshop - Castaic,
Ocean Potion and Wendy Cant!
information.
28 June 2014
www.lakemcclure.com/index.
cfm/camping1/barrett-cove/
park-model-cabins/ for more
June 2014 29
Dinner: 7:00 PM
$55 London Broil or Baked Chicken - includes tax, tip & gift
Call FS 49 - (310) 548-7549
RSVP by June 6, 2014
Dinner: 5:00 PM
Paid Advertisements:
30 June 2014
$35 per individual, $50 per family - includes food & gift
Call Fire Station 66 Grapevine - (323) 298-8035
Dinner: 7:00 PM
Dinner: 6:00 PM
The Early Retiree Reinsurance Program (ERRP) is a Federal program that was
ERRP Q&A
Who is eligible to participate in the ERRP
program?
June 2014 31
32 June 2014
STRUCTURE FIRE
Valley Village
June 2014 33
MAJOR EMERGENCY
North Hollywood
34 June 2014
It took 137 firefighters just under an hour and a half to knockdown a Major Emergency Fire in North Hollywood on May 2, 2014. First companies on scene at 13412 Saticoy Street reported a large outside fire with exposures. As the fire grew, a one story commercial building about
150 x 100 took off. One firefighter suffered a leg injury. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
June 2014 35
STRUCTURE FIRE
Van Nuys
On April 10, 2014, the LAFD responded to a structure fire at 17800 Vanowen Street, with 9-1-1 calls stating there were people
trapped inside. Companies found a one-story home with a garage converted, both well involved in fire and rapidly spreading to a neighboring home. 75 firefighters fully extinguished the stubborn flames in one hour and 16 minutes.
An 18 year-old female was heroically rescued out the window by LAPD Officers and neighbors. She was brought to awaiting
Firefighter/Paramedics who treated and transported her to a local hospital in fair condition
36 June 2014
MAJOR EMERGENCY
Hollywood
A fierce blaze destroyed several businesses in a two-story brick building in the Little Armenia area on May 6, 2014. Firefighters
were called to 1096 North Western Ave and found smoke issuing from the bricks and attic of the commercial building.
With the fire burning in multiple trapped spaces in the attic, the I.C. noted that the fire activity continued to escalate despite the
companies best efforts. He ordered personnel off the roof and went into a defensive fire attack.
A total of 153 firefighters extinguished the blaze in one hour and 38 minutes.
June 2014 37
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CALL TODAY
For a FREE Consultation!
800.573.4829
Download a Copy of The DROP Book at
www.DROPBOOK.com
*details at lafra.org/wellness
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40 June 2014
June 2014 41
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phone:
(800) 244-3439
42 June 2014
mail:
P.O. Box 41903
Los Angeles CA
90041
visit:
www.LAFRA.org
T
LAFD Golf Club A Flight Gross Champion
Randy Souza and Net Champion Alan Black.
Tournament Director Randy Souza congratulates B Flight Gross Champion Gary Mannan
and Net Champion Buzz Clark.
Tournament Director Randy Souza congratulates C Flight Gross Champion Bill Stires and
Net Champion Doug Moore.
A Flight results
1st gross is Randy Souza at 244
1st net is Allen Black at 225
2nd gross is Steve Schulz at 246*
2nd net is Bob Hernandez at 229
3rd gross is Erik Williams at 246
3rd net is Keith Young at 232
4th gross is Pat McOsker at 256
4th net is Roger Camunas at 234
B Flight results
1st gross is Gary Mannan at 256
1st net is Buzz Clark at 220
2nd gross is Gordon Wilson at 259
2nd net is Bruce Bickly at 225
3rd net is Howard Rose at 234
4th gross is Dan Costa at 277
4th net is Tony Valdez at 240
D Flight results
1st gross is Terry Depacht at 283
1st net is Paul Croghan at 221
2nd gross is Greg Gibson at 293
2nd net is Larry McAndress at 222
3rd gross is Leo Leon at 294
3rd net is Alan Schroeder at 223
4th gross is Durward Duffield at 309
4th net is Jack Monroe at 236
C Flight results
1st gross is Bill Stires at 272
1st net is Doug Moore at 223*
2nd gross is Andy Vidovich at 277
2nd net is Don Carter at 223
3rd gross is Mike Monroy at 278
3rd net is Mike Alba at 235
4th gross is Joe Szabados at 290
4th net is Raul Cabrera at 251
B Flight
1st gross is Al Muskat at 292
1st net is Mike Diaz at 213
2nd net is Ross Lawson at 224
3rd net is Jeff Hartman at 236
4th net is Jack Bailey at 242
June 2014 43
GRATEFUL HEARTS
Paid Advertisements:
44 June 2014
for their dedication and hard work, acknowledging that without their
help, it would be impossible to stage the many events that benefit the
Widows, Orphans and Disabled Firemens Fund.
Special plaques were presented to the Volunteers of the Month
for 2013 who included Rebecca Romas (daughter of Capt Steve and
Mona), Deborah Lew, Cindy Firestine, Rey Gonzalez, Michael Ha,
Griselda Trejo, Christina Winstead, Dawna Fry, Caroline Tse, Edra Bonsall and Phi Tran.
Veteran volunteers Noel and Cathy Murchet, Gerry and Jan
Layton, and Valerie Lawrence were also on hand for the festivities. And
the list of collaborators continues to grow two servers from Engine
Company 28 were so impressed by LAFRA and WODFF that they
signed up on the spot to become volunteers.
If you would like to become a volunteer, please visit
www.givetoahero.org
June 2014 45
46 June 2014
MEMBERS
Vernon R. Begley, Fire Inspector.
Appointed January 2, 1963.
Retired on a disability pension May 13, 1993 from Harbor Industrial.
Passed away April 10, 2014.
Daniel L. Mattox, Firefighter III.
Appointed February 9, 1978.
Retired on a service pension October 1, 1998 from FS 38-C.
Passed away April 15, 2014.
Willis A. Friend, Battalion Chief.
Appointed January 2, 1962.
Retired on a service pension July 8, 1984 from Batt 14-B.
Passed away April 15, 2014.
Roger B, Duncan, Firefighter.
Appointed March 17, 1947.
Retired on a disability pension September 10, 1957 from FS 91-A.
Passed away April 21, 2014.
Francis L. Wommack, Captain.
Appointed February 4, 1961.
Retired on a service pension May 16, 1987 from FS 18-B.
Passed away April 28, 2014.
Ronald D. Smith, Fireboat Mate.
Appointed May 19, 1958.
Retired on a disability pension December 12, 1987 from FS 112-C.
Passed away May 3, 2014.
Wallace M. Decuir, Firefighter.
Appointed August 27, 1946.
Retired on a disability pension February 1, 1978 from FS 94-B.
Passed away May 4, 2014.
FAMILY
Janet Young, spouse of Robert L. Young, passed away March 31, 2014.
Juliet M Elias, surviving spouse of Richard G. Elias, passed away April 1, 2014.
Lela M. Crotinger, surviving spouse of Alvin R. Crotinger, passed away April 16, 2014.
June 2014 47
Andy Kuljis,
Make A Difference
The Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemens Fund is a one-of-kind
charity ready to help you and your loved ones in times of unexpected
crisis.
It is here for you thanks to our kind donorsmore than half are
firefighters themselves.
One of the easiest ways to give is to include a charitable contribution
in your will or trust. By pledging now and paying later, it is extremely
affordable. More important, your gift will help someone in need and
make a huge difference in their lives.
We invite you to join this special group of donors, committed to
supporting your Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemens Fund, by
leaving a planned gift.
For information call
NPRA is a family organization that brings
together members to compete in various rodeos around
California and Nevada, promoting wholesome values
in the spirit of friendly competition. Proceeds from our
rodeos are donated to charities that benefit disabled
children, such as NAHRA and Special Olympics.
Traditional rodeo events are featured in performances, along with events not seen in the PRCA. In
addition to the usual bronc and bull riding, calf roping,
team roping, and barrel racing, we showcase a number
of non-traditional events which allow family members
of all ages to join in the fun. While the crowd may
laugh at the antics of calf dressing, the competitors are
deadly serious - and theyre in it to win!
50 June 2014
Mike Mastro
*APR=Annual Percentage Rate. Rate shown as of 5/1/14 is subject to
change without notice and is available for qualified buyers only. The
actual interest rate offered is based on your credit history, product, loan
term and the percentage of remaining equity in your home. Adequate
homeowners insurance is required. Home Equity Line of Credit has
an introductory rate valid for 6 months. The maximum APR for this
loan is 16.00%. No annual fee, no closing fees, or minimum advance
requirements. Participation in any real estate program will not be confirmed until the completed application has been submitted to the Credit
Union. All requests will be processed and must meet Firefighters Firsts
underwriting guidelines. Funding is subject to credit approval and verification of employment, equity, and all other related file documentation
necessary to qualify applicant(s). Early closure fee of $500 applies if
closed within first three years. Offer is limited to AZ, CA, CO, ID,
MT, NV, OR, UT, and WA. For additional details, please contact the
Credit Union.
Firefighters First Credit Union is an Equal Housing and Equal Opportunity Lender.
Funds on deposit at Firefighters First Credit Union are insured up to
$500,000 per account by American Share Insurance. This institution
is not federally insured, and if the institution fails, the Federal Government does not guarantee that depositors will get back their money.
Accounts with this institution are not insured by any state government.
June 2014 51
52 June 2014
gan suffered burns to both hands and other injuries, Firefighter Sander a fractured left arm,
Firefighter Lawson smoke inhalation, and Firefighter Garry Ingham of Squad 39 a fractured
kneecap.
The tragic fire was an arson for fraud
caused fire and a large number of LAFD Arson
and Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) investigators worked together to solve the crime
and arrest those who were found guilty of arson
and homicide.
Firefighters from all over Southern
California, police officers, family and friends
filled St. Davids Episcopal Church in North
Hollywood to overflow - nearly 1,000 people
attended the memorial services.
Next to home and family, the Fire
Department was his first love. For him it was
more than a job or a career, it was a way of
life. He gave his life while doing what he did
best, commented Department Chaplain James
Dayen during the services.
Courage is that quality that makes
the human spirit noble. Each and every day in
cities throughout our country, firefighters are
demonstrating that nobility, stated Fire Chief
John Gerard. Its the nature of our work to risk
our lives and everyone in this Department is
willing to take that risk one more time, added
the Chief.
The LAFD members burned at this
incident were treated by famed physician Dr.
A. Richard Grossman at the Grossman Burn
Center in Sherman Oaks. I remember visiting
some of our firefighters at the Burn Center and
meeting Dr. Grossman, who provided the specialized treatment and psychological care to
help them survive and heal their wounds. Dr.
Grossman treated countless numbers of firefighters and civilian burn victims during his
many years of dedicated work.
A TRIBUTE TO DR. A. RICHARD
GROSSMAN 1933 2014
Dr. A. Richard Grossman, the renowned plastic and reconstructive surgeon who
four decades ago pioneered the comprehensive
care of burn patients in Sherman Oaks and established what became the nations largest private burn treatment center, died at the age of
81. On April 13th, a public tribute commemorating his lifes work was held at our Los Angeles Fire Museum & Memorial in Hollywood
and coordinated by the Grossman Burn Center
and The Los Angeles Fire Department. More
than 300 people heard presentations from Fire
Chiefs including LAFD Chief Jim Featherstone, burn survivors, and his sons Peter and
Jeffrey. The members of Fire Station 65 and
LAFDHS President Jim Finn presented his
sons with an inscribed paver that will be placed
in the Memorial Plaza honoring Dr. Grossman.
Dr. G as patients and colleagues
called him, traced his fierce dedication to burn
victims to a 1958 fire that trapped students
inside a parochial school in Chicago. He was
an emergency room doctor at the citys Cook
County Hospital. He was quoted in 1992 saying: I had to count 93 children, all suffocated
and burned to death. The catastrophe indelibly
stayed in my mind. The experience had a profound effect on Dr. Grossman and was a driving force behind his vision to create a world
class comprehensive burn treatment facility.
Dr. Grossmans philosophy was not just to ensure survival, but to restore patients to as close
to their pre-injury condition as fully possible
functionally, emotionally and cosmetically.
Dr. Grossman moved to Los Angeles
and set about to achieve that vision. In 1969, he
convinced Sherman Oaks Community Hospital to devote two beds exclusively to burn care.
By 1978, the Burn Center had expanded into
a free-standing, 30 bed specialty unit that was
considered one of the largest and most comprehensive burn centers in the world. In 1995, he
expanded the Burn Center to Anaheim. That
same year, Dr. Grossman was joined in practice
by his son, Dr. Peter H. Grossman. In 2009, the
Grossman team opened another center in Bakersfield. In 2010, Grossman Burn Centers
flag ship program moved to West Hills Hospital
& Medical Center to a state of the art facility
aptly named The A. Richard Grossman Burn
Center. Together, father and son and the out-
LAFD FIRSTS
Throughout the history of the LAFD,
the Department has been a leader in innovations, developing new procedures, organizations, equipment, etc. The following is a short
list of some of those Firsts on the LAFD and
in the Fire Service:
First Ordinance as a paid Fire Department 1886 Hay Storage
Demolition Squad established to create
structural fire breaks 1920s
Use of an airplane to observe brush fires
1940
Developed
a hose laying
tractor for
brush fires
1953
Tested
water and
chemical
drop from
aircraft for
brush fires
1953
First
Department
to hire a full
time Chemist Early
1950s
Developed
June 2014 53
54 June 2014
VOLUNTEERISM QUOTES
I leave you with some quotes on volunteerism to maybe help you make a decision:
The road to success is not crowded. Because
while most are looking for ways to take, the
truly successful people are finding ways to
give. With a giving attitude, every situation is
an opportunity for success.
Volunteers are not paid; not because they are
worthless, but because they are PRICELESS!
You make a living by what you get, but you
make a life by what you give.
-- Winston Churchill
ROLL CALL
PRESIDENT REPORT
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Juan Albarran, President
Robert Steinbacher, Vice President
Trustee James Coburn
Trustee Steven Domanski
Trustee Jeff Cawdrey
Trustee Tyler Tomich
Trustee Chris Stine
Trustee David Peters
Trustee Chris Hart
Trustee Steve Ruda
Trustee Doak Smith
Trustee Steve Tufts
Trustee Rick Godinez
Trustee Mark Akahoshi
Trustee David Lowe Pension
Trustee Barry Hedberg Pension
Todd Layfer - Executive Director
MEMBERS ABSENT:
Trustee Tim Larson Pension (Excused)
Trustee Gene Bednarchik (Excused)
Trustee Francisco Hernandez (Excused)
Trustee David Ortiz (Excused)
Trustee Steve Berkery (Excused)
Trustee Craig White (Excused)
Andrew Kuljis, Secretary (Excused)
GUESTS:
Bob Olsen, L.A. Retired Fire & Police
Lee Kebler, L.A. Retired Fire & Police
Tom Stires, Retired
INVOCATION & Flag Salute
Rick Godinez led the invocation. Mark
Akahoshi led the flag salute.
RATIFICATION OF MINUTES
Juan Albarran entertained a motion to ratify
and dispense with the reading of the minutes
of the Board of Trustees meeting held March 5,
2014. David Lowe so moved. Barry Hedberg
ADMINISTRATIVE COMMITTEE
REPORT
June 2014 55
ASSISTANCE COMMITTEE
James Coburn
motions.
presented
the
BY-LAWS REPORT
following
EMERGENCY ADVANCEMENTS
56 June 2014
CLASSIFIEDS
MERCHANDISE
FOR SALE
REAL ESTATE
FOR SALE
ACROSS FROM GOLF COURSE.
Eagle Point, Oregon, 2008 custom
home, 2783 sf., 3 BD 2 BA, two story.
Birch floors, island kitchen, oversized
garage (724 sf), gas fireplace. Quiet
cul-de-sac within walking distance
to restaurants, shops, fitness club
and walking trail around golf course.
$306,000. www.southerncustomhome.com or call (541) 772-3790.
COMMERCIAL AUTO REPAIR
SHOP has everything - tools, books,
inventory, 2 lifts, two 20 ft containers,
tire machine - way too much to list.
Plus small 2 bedroom house all on
half acre corner lot, ready to move in
and start working. Hwy 395, Independence CA. LAFD Widow. (760) 8782269. Shown by appointment only.
Great deal at $220,000 cash.
FOR SALE BY OWNER
International Living $170.000
Ecuador, Esmeraldas, South Pacific,
Lagos de la Cumbia Resort, beautiful
SFH, 3 bedroom, 3 1/2 bath, fully
furnished vacation pool home. Access
to 20-horses stable, and tennis court.
REAL ESTATE
FOR SALE
HOUSE FOR RENT IN SAUGUS.
1 mile from central park. New
everything including kitchen appliances and granite tops. RV parking
in driveway up to 35 feet. Accept
pet with deposit. Dog run and dog
door to house. Very large, shaded
front porch and nice back yard. Call
Shawn Rudolph (818) 730-3153.
Work LAFD 98-B. House was completely remodeled in Oct/2013. 4 bed
2 bath. $2350 per month.
SERVICES
911 CALL ELIZABETH
WILLAHAN (LAFD wife) for any real
estate needs. Donation to fire-related
organizations and/or help with some
escrow fees with every closed sale!
Specializing in Orange County, parts
of Los Angeles/Riverside Counties.
Lender information available. Century
21 Award, BRE #00966984. (949)
293-2401
ALTERNATIVE & TRADITIONAL
Termite & Pest Control - ECOLA
Ecological Solutions. Smart choices,
simple solutions. Problem solved.
Call for FREE termite estimate or
pest quotes over the phone - escrow
and inspections excluded. Fireman
wife Sue Fries - Termite Lady. (818)
652-7171.
termitelady@ecolatermite.com
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.
CALIFORNIA FIREARMS
DEALER - DOJRS background
checks, FFL transfers, handgun
safety certificate, consignment sales,
gun registration and personal transfers. Personal firearms instructor,
tactical casualty management and
gunsmithing. All handguns and long
guns must be listed on the California
DOJ for sale roster. Call Bill Evans active LAFD (714) 330-9825 email:
firehousegunz@gmail.com
June 2014 57
VACATION
RENTALS
BIG BEAR CABIN - All season,
restful views from decks. Two story,
sleeps 6, half mile to lake, two plus
miles to slopes. Fireplace/Wood,
cable TV/DVD/VCR. Full kitchen,
completely furnished except linens.
Pets ok. $95/$105 (two day minimum). $550/$600 a week, Beep or
Donna Schaffer 1+(760) 723-1475.
www.schaffercabin.com
BIG BEAR CABIN. 2 bedroom, 2
bath, 2 story. Sleeps 6-8. About 6
miles from ski slopes & lake. Fireplace/
wood, cable, full kitchen - furnished.
$100 per night M - Th. $110 per night
F-Sun. Weekly available. Sheri (909)
851-1094 or (760) 948-2844.
BIG BEAR LAKES FINEST- Deluxe
lakeside townhouse, 2 bedrooms,
3 baths, 2 cable TVs, HBO, DVD,
WiFi, 2 wood burning fireplaces,
laundry room, tennis court, indoor
pool, sauna, spa, boat dock. Fully
equipped, including all linens. Sleeps
6. 310-541-8311 or email: nmbigbear@gmail.com
BIG BEAR CABIN - Sugarloaf - Cozy
upgraded 2 bedroom cabin. Sleeps
8. Fireplace, deck, Wifi - internet and
cable TV. On a large lot with sled hill.
Fully furnished except linens. $125
Winter $100 summer. Details and
availability, Call/text/email Jessica
(949) 874-5294
sugarloafcabin@cox.net sugarloafcabin.com
CATALINA BEACH
COTTAGE - 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, one
block to beach, view, fully equipped
housekeeping unit. Marci (818) 3476783 or Clarence (310) 510-2721.
FABULOUS CAYUCOS
BEACH CONDO. 180-degree ocean
58 June 2014
VACATION
VEHICLES
LUXURY RV FOR RENT. New
class A 40 motorhome. Sleeps 8,
bunk beds, 4 slides, 4 TVs, fully
loaded. $270/day (with active/retired firefighter/police discount), includes cleaning fee and unlimited
miles. 3-day minimum, tow dolly
available. Get more, pay less. Call
Shawn, LAFD. (888) 540-4835.
www.ocdreamrv.com
MOTOR HOMES FOR RENT:
Several 2006 Class A 32 Foot
Motor Homes, with Double Slide
Outs, Fully Loaded, Free Housekeeping Kit, Camping Kit, Discount
Prices Starting at $150.00 to
$180.00 per night. Serving family
OTHER
12 DUMP TRAILER. $85/day.
Contact Gregg Avery, FS 98-A.
(805) 320-8311
DELILLO CHEVROLET
GALPIN FORD
GOUDY HONDA
Auto Leasing & Fleet Sales Since 1989
Fastest Growing Dealer in the Nation
1400 W Main St, Alhambra CA 91801
Eddie WangFleet & Lease Mgr
626-300-4222 l 800-423-1114
---------------------------HAMER TOYOTA, INC.
Camry / Celica / Corolla / Tundra
Tacoma / Sienna / Supra / Solara
11041 Sepulveda Blvd
Mission Hills CA
Ask for Steve DensonFleet Mgr
steve@hamertoyota.com
818-365-9621
Specializing in hassle-free car buying
----------------------------
HONDA OF HOLLYWOOD
Honda - Sales and Leasing
Large Selection of Used Vehicles
6511 Santa Monica Blvd
Hollywood CA
Ask for Dave Erickson
323-466-3251 l Fax: 323-462-0187
DaveE@hondaofhollywood.com
June 2014 59
ANONYMOUS DONATION
JOHN J. ADAMS
RICHARD LAMBINE
60 June 2014
JOSH ROTEN
MICHAEL A. CASTANO
DAVID H. WAGNER
THOMAS B. STIRES
Left to right - H. H. Scarbrough, John J. Voll, Lieutenant Eddie Ricks, L. T. Szymanski (driver)
Originally known as the Sawtelle Fire Department, Engine Company No. 1. Shown here after annexation
to the City of Los Angeles, Engine Company No. 37 was located at 517 Santa Monica Boulevard.
Source: LAFD Photo Album Collection, courtesy of LAFire.com
June 2014 61