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 LAFD INVITATIONAL | MOUNTAINGATE COUNTRY CLUB | MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2018

n
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GRAINZE
PR $2,500
FIRST IN OR CLOSEST TO THE HOLE
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Winner Need Not be Present to Win Entries must be received by

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PAYMENT INFORMATION

First Name: Last Name: TOTAL AMOUNT:

Card Holder’s Address: Home

Work
City: State: Zip:
Home
Card Holder’s Phone: Cell Email:
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Visa MC AMEX Discover Credit Card No: Exp. Date: *CVV2 No:
(*Required)

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

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

ATTN: Juliet Brandolino - PO Box 41903 - Los Angeles CA 90041
( 3 2 3 ) 2 5 9 -5 2 1 5

34 On the cover: Structure Fire - Westlake District - By Ivan Meneses

Inset LAFD photo by: Greg Doyle

Sylmar - Grass Fire

2 • August 2018
 VOL. XCIV AUGUST 2018 NO. 12

• CONTENTS •
President’s Message • ............................................................................05
Know Your Benefits
An explanation of the new EOB • ...........................................................06
Special Commendation
FF/PM Christopher Kuzmicz - A man always on duty • ...............................07
Testicular Cancer
This isn’t the time to be shy • ....................................................................08
FFFC at the Top of the World
A training mission to Nepal • ..................................................................10
LAFD Handball
Jess “Hall of Fame” Pasos • ...........................................................13
LAFRA’s New Wellness Program
Now you can exercise anywhere/anytime . . . almost • ................................14
Battalion News • ....................................................................................15
Department in Action • .............................................................................32
Station Fridge • ......................................................................................37
Retirement Dinners • ..............................................................................38
The Fabricating Firefighter
LAFD’s Scott Wofford realizes a dream, while living another • ..............39
LAFRA Scholarships
We are pleased to introduce next year’s freshmen • .................................40
Mailbox • ...............................................................................................42
Memorials • ...........................................................................................44
LAFD Golf Club
2018 Senior’s Championship • .............................................................45
Stop the Bleed
A national program rolling out across America to save lives! • ...............47
LAFD History
Hurricane Katrina – LAFD Response • ................................................52
Minutes of the Board of Trustees • .....................................................55
Classifieds • ...........................................................................................58
Tailboard
Featuring the Big Nickel - Fire Station 5 • ................................................60

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 © 2018
Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association.
No material may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher.

August 2018 • 3
 FIREMEN’S GRAPEVINE
ADVANCED DERMATOLOGY owned and published by the
Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association
AND SKIN CANCER INSTITUTE 7470 N Figueroa Street, Los angeles CA 90041

MICHAEL T. LIN, M.D. EDITORIAL STAFF

Adjunct Professor of Clinical Medicine, USC Dave Wagner • Managing Editor..........................................editor@lafra.org
Diplomat, American Board of Dermatology John Hicks • Associate Editor..............................................jhicks@lafra.org
Fellow, American Society for Mohs Surgery Eric Santiago • Creative Editor...............................................eric@lafra.org
Display Advertising.................................................(323) 259-5200 ext. 231
Workers’ Compensation, QME, AME, PQME,
Personal Injury Cases, Expert Witness PSO’s
Amy Bastman, Margaret Stewart, Brian Humphrey
Consulting, and Medical Legal
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Art Sorrentino, Matt Mickey, Frank Borden, Jim Stiglich, Steve Ruda
Locations:
• 28049 Smyth Drive Valencia, CA 91355 PHOTOGRAPHERS
David Blaire, Greg Doyle, Harry Garvin,
• 15477 Ventura Boulevard, Suite 100, Steve Gentry, Juan Guerra, Brian Haimer, Ryan Ling, Rick McClure,
Mike Meadows, Lloyd Payne, Jeff Zimmerman, Yvonne Griffin
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
• 416 North Bedford Drive, Suite 100,
LOS ANGELES FIREMEN’S RELIEF ASSOCIATION
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Robert Steinbacher................................................President
• 1801 Solar Drive, Suite 150, Oxnard, CA 93030 Jeff Cawdrey ..................................................Vice-President
Andrew Kuljis ........................................................Secretary
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Chris Stine Gene Bednarchik Rich Moody
Craig White Henry Gasbarri Rick Godinez
Contact us today! Danny Wu Jim Duffy Steve Berkery
David Peters Joe Vigil Steven Domanski
Richard Austria (661) 705-9704
Doak Smith John Jacobsen Tim Freeman Jr.
Charmaine Chavez (661) 705-9712 Frank Aguirre Kenny Breskin Tim Larson
Phone: (818) 906-6900•Fax: (661) 702-1701 Gayle Sonoda Mike Sailhamer Tyler Tomich
www.theadsci.com
CHAPLAINS
To contact a chaplain, please call Senior Chaplain Rick Godinez at (213)
797-2404 or the MFC Floor Captain at (213) 576-8920
Greg W. Gibson...................Chaplain Hershy Z. Ten.......................Chaplain
Danny Leon..........................Chaplain Roger Fowble.....................Chaplain
George A. Negrete...............Chaplain Mark R. Woolf.....................Chaplain
Aquil F. Basheer..................Chaplain Jesus Pasos.........................Chaplain
Tim Werle............................Chaplain

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

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

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

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

4 • August 2018
Dog Days of Summer
Early August is usually a time when things tend to slow down so
we can relax, recharge, and enjoy the dog days of summer during the first
two weeks of the month. I’ve found that stepping away from the normal
stressors we face each day can be one of the most productive things we
can do for ourselves. It helps bring about renewed energy, fresh eyes, and
helps us gain a fresh perspective to help us work through troublesome
issues.
A HUGE THANK YOU!
I had the pleasure of attending the 20th annual Fallen Heroes Me-
morial ride on Saturday July 14th. Once again Jack Wise, the Fire Hogs
Board and members, along with their incredible army of volunteers put
on a great event honoring our widows and raising buckets of bucks for
our Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemen’s Fund.
Los Angeles Fire and Police Pension Issues
Speaking of troublesome issues, this past year I’ve noticed more
gray hair than I had previously and I attribute it, at least in part, to dealing
with the ongoing Pension issues. For more than two years this has been
my main focus and top priority. Everything that can be done is being
done to protect the medical coverage this 111-year-old organization has
worked so hard to create for our members. This really is one of the most
important issues we’ve ever faced as an organization.
LAFRA is the successful organization it is because the infrastruc-
ture is solid. The Board determines membership rules and believes all
members deserve equal coverage, regardless of age. Trustees, executive
leadership, attorneys, advisers, and vendors are key to providing stabil-
ity. In addition, we have experts providing medical plan education, finan-
cial guidance, and auditing firms providing the best services available.
Dedicated staff serves all members, active and retired, and their families.
Over the past few years I’ve been grateful to have the opportunity
to meet with many new recruit classes before they start training at the
Drill Towers. I go back again days before graduation to present medical
coverage and Relief information. I’m proud to offer the amazing ben-
efits designed by firefighters for firefighters. It’s important to keep it this
way, which is why I can’t emphasize enough to the Pension Board that
the decision-making structure we have in place must remain unchanged.
Our retirees served the City of LA, and they paid their dues to the orga-
nization with the understanding the same benefits would remain intact
for them during retirement. We need to protect what we have today and
make sure we can keep it going untouched by outside influence.
PLEASE TAKE NOTE:
Your health is important to you, your families and to us. Preven-
tive care is key to staying healthy and it keeps costs down. If you don’t
have a primary care provider, now is a good time to find one. Annual
wellness exams are fully covered by the PPO plan.
We rolled out the new Wellness Plan last month. Questions? Read
the rundown on the program a couple pages further into this month’s is-
sue (page 14). If you still have questions or need more info, call (866)
936-4243.
A new Explanation of Benefits (EOB’s) went into effect recently.
There’s a full-page explanation on page 6 of this issue. Here are a couple
of other important points:
• Refer to the ‘Reason Code Description’ for information
regarding your claim.
• If a Medicare EOB or proof of medical necessity is required,
please call HealthScope Benefits (HSB) at (866) 995-2372.
• Eligibility should be confirmed by calling (HSB), not Anthem
Blue Cross.
• When receiving treatment out-of-state, the provider should
review your ID card for billing instructions.
• Any surgical procedure requires prior authorization through
Anthem Blue Cross in a timely manner.
• When a cataract surgery is scheduled, the Toric Lens is a
covered item.
• Call HSB when a contracted provider requires payment up front
other than an applicable copay.
• Active employees, only the subscriber’s name appears on the
medical ID card.
• If you seek reimbursements regularly, save time and sign up for
electronic transactions.
• When submitting reimbursement requests to HSB, you must use
secure fax # (323) 259-5295.
Please, please, please keep your beneficiary, Life & Accident
Benefit, and Death Benefit information current. Direct questions to (323)
259-5204.
2018 LAFD Invitational Golf Tournament
The 21st annual LAFD Invitational will be held on September
27, 2018 at Mountain Gate Country Club. Spots are limited and it’s first
come, first serve, so sign up early. All proceeds benefit our official char-
ity, the Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association’s Widows, Orphans &
Disabled Firemen’s Fund. This, one of our largest fundraiser of the year,
and assists firefighter families in need after experiencing serious life al-
tering events.
Be safe and be kind to each other!
Robert D. “Steintalker” Steinbacher
president@lafra.org
323.259.5200
August 2018 • 5
  LOS ANGELES FIREMEN’S RELIEF ASSOCIATION

NEWANGELES
 LOS PPO MEDICAL PLAN
FIREMEN’S EXPLANATION
RELIEF ASSOCIATIONOF BENEFITS (EOB)
Effective April 1, 2018, our Third Party Administrator, HealthScope Benefits is implementing a new Explanation of
Benefits (EOB) format. An EOB outlines how HealthScope Benefits applied the Plan benefits to your claim. See below
NEWsample PPOEOB MEDICAL PLAN
for more details. We hopeEXPLANATION
you find the new format OFeasier
BENEFITS
to read and(EOB)
understand. If you have
Effective April 1, 2018, our Third Party Administrator, HealthScope Benefits is implementing
questions about your new EOB, contact HealthScope Benefits at: 866-995-2372. a new Explanation of
Benefits (EOB) format. An EOB outlines how HealthScope Benefits applied the Plan benefits to your claim.1. See
Your below
Member Information: the patient’s name, the date
sample EOB for more details. We hope you find the new format easier to read and understand. If you havethe EOB was issued, the patient’s ID number, the LAFRA
questions about your new EOB, contact HealthScope Benefits at: 866-995-2372. group ID number and group name.

2. Contact Us: HealthScope Benefits is LAFRA’s Third Party

1 Administrator (TPA). Contact HealthScope Benefits if you
have claims, eligibility or benefits questions, including
questions about your EOB.
1

3. Dates of Service: corresponds to the date(s) of treatment.

2
4. Total Charge: charges submitted by your provider for ser-
2 vices rendered (please verify that this amount corresponds
with the amount billed to you by the provider of service).

5. Reduction Amount: the savings, from network discounts

and pricing programs, that is applied to the “Total Charge”.

6. Amount Excluded: charges that are “not covered” such

as those over usual, customary and reasonable (UCR) and
other services listed under the “What is Not Covered under
the Medical Plan” section of your Summary Plan Document
(SPD).

7. Co-pay: any applicable co-payment(s).

8. Deduct: the amount that applied towards your

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 deductible.
3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
12 13
12 13
9. Co-insurance: if the Plan pays a percentage of the
charges and you are also responsible for a percentage, this
14
is the percentage amount you owe.
14

10. Other Payment: any additional amount that applied to

the claim such as payments from another insurance plan.

11. Plan Pay at %: shows the benefit percentage applied

to the claim.

12. Remark Code: HealthScope’s number code for charges

that are not covered or require further explanation.

13. Plan Pay Amount: the amount the Plan paid toward
15 the service.

14. Patient Responsibility: the amount to be paid to the

16 15 provider, by the covered person.

15. Reason Code Description: a description for the Remark

Code in section 11.
16
16. Year to Date Totals: the year-to-date amount accrued
towards the patient’s out-of-pocket expense.
6 • August 2018
 I
t is said that firefight-
ers and paramedics alike
are really never off duty.
Wherever they go, be it the
station, or on vacation, the re-
sponsibility of saving lives is
always with them. Such is the
case with Firefighter/Para-
medic Christopher Kuzmicz.
In January 2017, Kuzmicz
traveled to Papua New Guin-
ea for a 14-day dive trip in
the Coral Sea. On January 21,
ten days into the excursion,
Kuzmicz was out in the water
enjoying another wonderful
dive. Suddenly within him he
experienced an “eerie feeling” which caused him to return to the dive
boat just 45-minutes into the dive.
As he approached the boat, Kuzmicz began to signal to the crew
that he needed a lift. With the zodiac in the water and making its way
to him, he suddenly heard a piercing shriek and watched as the small
boat quickly turned away from him and headed in the direction of the
disturbance. Knowing something wasn’t right, Kuzmicz made his own
way back to the dive boat, dropping off his diving gear, then propelling
himself back to the inflatable’s current location. There he found the dive
boat captain, Craig de Wit, bleeding severely from a bull shark attack to
his left arm and torso.
With his training kicking in, Kuzmicz immediately took control
of the situation. With help, he moved the injured captain to the larger
vessel and began to assess his injuries. He next rapidly applied direct
pressure to the multiple wounds. He also put all deck hands to work col-
lecting onboard medications and medical equipment.
As help was being requested for immediate assistance through
the Divers Alert System, Kuzmicz watched as the captain faded in and
out of consciousness. Direct pressure to the wounds was proving inad-
equate to stop the bleeding completely so Kuzmicz created makeshift
tourniquets to help control the bleeding. He next proceeded to clean the
wounds and gather a pertinent medical history to pass on to medical per-
sonnel when transfer of care took place. This would not happen quickly
though. With the ship’s location some six hours from shore, and a storm
delaying a rescue helicopter, it would be nine hours before the captain
would see the inside of a hospital. Kuzmicz was at his side the entire
time he was on the ship.
Nearly a year later, Captain Craig de Wit is now on the road to
recovery, with a fighting chance at regaining full function of his limbs.
He credits this in large part to Firefighter/Paramedic Kuzmicz’s “ex-
emplary service in providing first aid.” It was the captain himself that
recommended Kuzmicz for recognition, calling him “a credit to the Los
Angeles City Fire Department.”
August 2018 • 7
A “Simply put, firefighters should
ches and pains are nothing new to
firefighters--we all get them. Old or
young, in shape or not, they are just
a part of our daily lives. For the most part,
though, these little irritants disappear as quick-
ly as they appear, leaving us no worse for wear.
For Firefighter/Paramedic Daniel Lawless of
Medical Plan Benefits
Members of LAFRA’s PPO Medical
Plan are strongly encouraged to take advan-
tage of the fully covered annual physical.
The body scan benefit is another excellent
way this disease can be detected. LAFRA’S
PPO Plan pays for services and supplies pro-
vided in connection to body scans for screen-
ing purposes up to $700 per scan, limited
to one scan every three years. This is a
separate benefit from the annual physical.
Call the Medical Imaging Center of Southern
California, Inc. (MICSC) at (310) 829-9788
to schedule your appointment. Present your
medical ID card and pay nothing. If a lump
is detected, an appointment with a urologist
is usually recommended. If you need assis-
tance finding an in-network primary care
doctor or urologist in the Anthem Blue Cross
network, please call HealthSCOPE Benefits
(HSB) at (866) 995-2372.
8 • August 2018
the LAFD, however, one of these aches came
but had no intention of leaving.
Daniel explained that the symptoms
began as a light ache in one of his testicles. At
first, he dismissed the discomfort as nothing,
thinking maybe he had somehow unknowingly
injured himself. He made an appointment with
his doctor, which was quickly followed up by
an ultra sound of the area. As he drove home
from the procedure, his phone rang. It was his
doctor requesting he make a follow-up ap-
pointment with a urologist as soon as possible.
Hearing the urgency in the doctor’s voice,
Daniel made the appointment and soon discov-
ered it was testicular cancer.
Daniel is not alone with this disease.
Dr. Kevin Chan of the City of Hope writes,
“It is well documented that firefighters are at a
higher risk of cancer than the general public. In
fact, according to the Journal of Occupational
and Environmental Medicine, firefighters were
twice as likely to develop testicular cancer than
the average American male. On a daily basis,
firefighters are exposed to many potentially
hazardous substances in the performance of
their duties. These include, but are not limited
to: diesel engine exhaust, soot, benzene, chlo-
roform, styrene, and formaldehyde which may
be inhaled or absorbed through the skin. This
suggests that besides wearing their breathing
apparatus during firefighting activities and a
protected mask during overhaul situations,
firefighters should also be paying close atten-
tion to assure they are wearing clean protective
gear. Simply put, firefighters should wash their
turnouts thoroughly after fighting a fire.”
wash their turnouts thoroughly after
fighting a fire”
Gold Lee, Esq., and his law firm have
a long history of successfully representing
first responders in worker compensations is-
sues. He states, “Testicular cancer is just one
of the many cancers under which the presump-
tion applies. A presumption is a ‘legal fiction,’
a deviation from the normal rules that would
otherwise apply to an injured who has the bur-
den of proof to show he/she got injured in the
form and manner alleged. Presumptions shift
this legal burden from the injured worker onto
the defendant (city/employer) who must now
prove why the injury is non-industrial. This is
known as rebutting the presumption.”
“Presumptions shift this legal
burden from the injured worker onto
the defendant (city/employer)”
Although testicular cancer is less com-
mon compared to other forms of cancer, it is
still the most common form of cancer in young
men. Luckily, it is still very curable if detected
early, with nearly 95.1 percent of patients sur-
viving five years or more according to the Na-
tional Cancer Institute. In many cases testicu-
lar cancer is caught early because the patient
notices the presence of a lump on one of their
testicles. However, this is not the only sign of
the disease. There are less obvious, but still im-
portant signs and symptoms to watch out for:
 A heavy feeling below the belt. Even
if you don’t have a lump on your testicles, a
heavy feeling in the lower region, including
your testicles and abdomen, can signal trouble.
In fact, this is actually one of the more com-
mon symptoms of testicular cancer and is like-
ly due to extra fluid or enlarged lymph nodes.
An enlarged or shrinking testicle.
Although it may not be on your daily list of
things to do, a check of your testicles should
be routinely performed to avoid missing any
change in size. The changes occur when there
is a hormonal imbalance caused by an increase
in estrogen or a decrease in testosterone caused
by a testicular tumor.
Swollen legs. Blood clots form due to
the spread of the cancer into the lymph nodes.
This, in turn, constricts the blood flow to the
veins in your legs. Deep vein thrombosis may
form, causing you pain and even difficulty
breathing. If this occurs, contact your doctor
Risk Factors:
as soon as possible. Do not delay care. • Babies born with undescended testicles
Breast growth or soreness in the • Congenital (born with) abnormalities of a testicle,
area. This next sign or symptom may cause penis, kidney and inguinal hernias (hernia in groin area)
you a little embarrassment to speak of, but you • A family history of testicular cancer
need to get over it because it may actually save • Using marijuana (dagga or cannabis)
your life. Some testicular tumors produce hor-
mones that cause breast tenderness or growth
of breast tissue which is called gynecomastia.
Some tumors can secrete high levels of a hor- Myth Fact
mone called human chorionic gonadotropin
(HCG), which stimulates breast development. ◊ Riding a ◊ Cycling can cause
Tumors can also produce estrogen, which, bike frequently a swollen prostrate
along with spurring breast development, can but has no link to TC
causes TC
also lower your sex drive.
Lower back pain and shortness of
breath. Now back pain is no stranger to most ◊ TC means no ◊ Only 2-3% of TC
firefighters, but back pain without a mechani- more sexual de- patients have tumors
cal cause is something to question. Shortness sire or sex drive in both testicles. The
of breath, however, is never a good sign, cancer 97-98% left with one
caused or not. Unfortunately, these two symp-
testicle will still have
toms are possible signs that the cancer has left
the testicle and spread, either to the back of the sex drive
stomach or to the lungs.
If you experience any of these symp- ◊ Only older ◊ The majority of TC
toms, you should make an appointment with men are at risk patients are between
your doctor immediately. Testicular cancer is 15-39
to get TC
usually a fast-growing cancer, so if you experi-
ence any of the signs and symptoms mentioned,
it is extremely important to see your doctor to ◊ Big testicles ◊ There is no evi-
be checked. This is not a time to be shy. Be make you more dence to suggest size
proactive with your health and examine your prone to this is a risk factor
testicles on a regular basis. The best time to do cancer
this is in a warm shower, since the warm water Self Exam
can relax your scrotum and make it easier for ◊ Examine your testicles after taking a warm bath or
you to find anything suspicious. Anything out shower
of the ordinary — such as lumps or changes ◊ Stand in front of a mirror & look for any signs of
in size, shape, and consistency— should be swelling
brought to the attention of your doctor as soon ◊ Support your testicles with one hand & feel each one
as possible. with your other hand
Firefighter/Paramedic Lawless was ◊ Roll the testicles between the thumb & fingers for
lucky. He had discovered the disease early and any lumps - it’s normal to feel a soft chord-like struc-
is doing well today, though he will be moni- ture on the top and back of each testicle (lumps can
tored for up to 10 more years to assure the can- be as small as a grain of rice & are usually quite firm)
cer does not return.
August 2018 • 9
‘N
amaste’ from Nepal. Although my pen has been silent lately,
Firefighters for Christ has been very active. This past year
alone, we’ve sent training teams to Mexico, Ecuador, the
Philippines, and most recently Kathmandu, Nepal.
This eleven-member Nepal Team consisted of firefighters from
the LAFD, LA County, Rancho Cucamonga, Anaheim, Santa Clara and
Hemet. We supplied and donated equipment, then taught classes on Fire-
fighter Rescue, Auto Extrication, Swift Water Rescue, and Wildland Op-
erations. Our class of 100 included police officers, firefighters, and civil-
ians (similar to CERT personnel). This outreach was done at the request
and coordination of the mayor of Lalitpur Metropolitan City and held in
the National Armed Police Force Academy in Kathmandu.
Nepal is a very interesting country. Language interpretation is
done by thoughts and ideas rather than individual words and phrases.
Nothing spoken or written is recognizable to us English speakers. It’s a
culture so foreign in the minds of Western ideology. For instance, what
we would consider feral cows, the Nepalese consider sacred. They wan-
der about freely and are given the highest right-of-way in traffic. The
cultural gap in Nepal is wide yet our interaction with firefighters (and
first responders) throughout the world is always the same. We have the

10 • August 2018
same heart and desire in wanting to help others, and friendships with our
Nepalese students overcame any cultural differences.
We often take for granted the training and equipment available to
us in the United States. Developing countries have so little and it seems
that emergency services are very low on their priority list. Although tech-
nology continues to advance, emergency services lag behind. As an ex-
ample, every nation may have automobiles, but developing nations have
no means of handling victim extrication in the event of a serious traffic
accident. This is why auto extrication is part of our training curriculum.
The fire service in Nepal also seems to be restricted to fire suppression
only, leaving any technical rescue work to law enforcement. That is why
most of our students were police officers and civilian personnel.
Firefighters for Christ is an international ministry within the fire
service. It began in Los Angeles in 1976 and today has chapters across
the nation and in several countries overseas. It’s founder and President,
John White, served 45 years on the LAFD and retired a Captain II.
Upcoming FFC trips are scheduled for Uganda, the Philippines,
Mexico, and Peru. If you are interested in coming along, contact us at:
www.firefightersforchrist.org, or on our FaceBook Group, Firefighters
for Christ International.

August 2018 • 11
Paid Advertisement

Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association Medical Plan may cover this examination.
12 • August 2018 Contact your plan provider to verify.
R
etired Captain Jesus Pasos will be necessary!” “He screens his serves!” “He bor- Pasos joins Tati Silveyra (Pro) and Roy
inducted in the Southern California rowed my calf sleeve four years ago and wears Harvey (Organizer) representing the LAFD in
Handball Association Hall of Fame on it every time we play!” “For a guy as strong and the Southern California Handball Association
August 4, 2018. This is a well-deserved honor macho as he is, he calls contact if you touch Hall of Fame. Please email lafdhandball@
for Pasos who was the 4-Wall Singles National him with a feather!” “He wants every call to go yahoo.com for ticket information.
Champion in the 60 and over age group for his way!” “Castro has never beat him!”
2016 and 2017, a two-time Doubles National
Champion, and spent years at the top of the
LAFD Handball Ladder.
Jesse rose quickly on the LAFD Lad-
der, winning the “E” Singles in the Fall 1976,
“D” Singles in the Spring 1977, “C” Singles in
the Fall 1977, “B” Singles in the Fall 1978, and
finally his first “A” Singles title in the Fall 1981
tournament.
Another early career highlight occurred
in the Fall 1983 tournament, when he won the
“A” Singles and “A” Doubles for the first time
with partner Gilbert Reyna, which was the first
of at least six Doubles titles together. Unfor-
tunately all tournaments were not recorded in
the Handball Journal. Available records show
that Pasos won at least 13 “A” Singles titles
and at least 15 “A” Doubles titles. He has also
dominated the Masters (over 40) Division since
1999, including tournaments after his retire-
ment. He could always be counted on to win
any reunion tournament at FS-26, FS-9 or FS-
11 no matter who his partner was.
Jesse has been a great ambassador to
the sport with the ever present toothpick in the
corner of his mouth and layers of shirts to ab-
sorb the impact of the shots that he blocks. He
is a complete player with great court instincts
who always hits the smart shot. He has the rare
ability to adjust his game to exploit his oppo-
nents’ weaknesses or overpower them when
necessary. Always a gentleman on the court,
this honor is well deserved.
When asked about Pasos, retired Dep-
uty Chief Joe Castro said, “When the score is
9-9 in a tiebreaker, Jesus is the best athlete I’ve
ever seen in any sport. In crunch time he abso-
lutely will not miss his shot.”
Current 50 and over National Cham-
pion John Libby said that “Jesse Pasos is the
fiercest, fairest, and most ferocious handball
player in LAFD history.”
International Association of Firefight-
ers Vice President Frank Lima said “Whether
the handball game is on the line, or a life is on
the line on scene at a fire; Jesus will always
come through in the clutch. He is the most de-
pendable person to have in critical situations on
the court or at an emergency.”
A few quotes from a group text suitable
for printing are: “That toothpick is totally un-
August 2018 • 13
W
hen it comes to your physical fitness,
I’m happy to say you have run out
of excuses. Starting on July 1, 2018,
LAFRA PPO Medical Plan members and their
spouses/domestic partners and adult children
18 and older became eligible for the LAFRA
Wellness Program. You’ll now have access to
thousands of fitness centers across the country,
including Anytime Fitness, Gold’s Gym, LA Fit-
ness, Snap Fitness and many more. In addition,
you are not limited to a single location and will
have the ability to join as many participating
fitness centers as you like. Want to lift weights
at Gold’s Gym in the morning? Do it. Pilates in
the afternoon at LA Fitness? No problem. You
can even finish the day with a swim and steam
at LA Fitness. Sounds too good to be true? Well,
it’s not! Sure, there are certain limitations and restrictions. This program only allows access to the basic gym privileges. Additional
services such as a personal trainer and/or other premium offerings at individual gyms will be an added expense and your financial
responsibility. The plan does, however, offer a private online Well-Being Assessment to see where your fitness level is and what you
can do to improve it. It also offers personalized phone coaching to assist you in setting goals and attaining them in areas such as
weight loss and the elimination of tobacco. Simply call 1-866-936-4243.
Another unique aspect of this program is that it rewards you for working out. That’s correct! Every time you go to a participat-
ing facility, you will earn 50 points to accumulate and use toward great prizes like fitness equipment, kitchen gadgets, cookbooks,
and more. Unfortunately, government restrictions have been placed on wellness incentives for adult dependent children (ages 18-
26). This makes them ineligible for incentives, including prizes redeemed through the LAFRA Wellness Program Reward Center.
The big question now is how to sign up. As of this publication, you, your spouse/domestic partner, and your eligible depen-
dents should have already received a welcoming letter with complete details of the program, along with a membership card and
detailed instructions on how to sign up online to get started. You must have your LAFRA Wellness Program ID with you when you
visit a Prime Fitness Center. If you haven’t received your letter with your membership card, please call 1-866-936-4243, or contact
the Relief Association for help. You can also go to www.lafra.org/wellness for further information such as locating an eligible fitness
center near you. Please do not attempt to visit a participating gym until you have completed the required online application. Once
completed it’s GO TIME! Get dressed and get back into the best shape of your life, all compliments of your LAFRA Wellness Program.
See you at the gym!
14 • August 2018
 FF Eric Mattson (3-B) and wife Robyn welcomed their 3rd
CAV time with 3’s showing 4’s their US&R tools. child – Rose Imelda – born on Memorial Day.

The crew at FS 9 enjoy some “airtime” compliments

of Air Operations! Photo by Adam VanGerpen

August 2018 • 15
 WED, OCTOBER 3RD, 2018 (A SHIFT)
CHECK IN - 8AM GAME STARTS - 9AM

$20 PER PLAYER

THREE TO FIVE PLAYERSPER TEAM | 30 TEAMS MAX.

SANTA MONICA BEACH

1150 PCH, LOT 3 NORTH

Dave Moorman & the Crew

PROCEEDS BENEFIT YOUR

CALL SEAN MILLET
AT (805) 717-0618
16 • August 2018
 FS 10 celebrated A/O Hiserman’s last shift
and Independence Day on the fourth of July.

X.

T 4’s, 9’s and 26’s (Div Zulu) take a

8 much needed break at the Griffin fire.

August 2018 • 17
18 • August 2018
 USAR 88 assist at an auto vs apartment building
in FS 90 first-in. 6/30/18. Photo by Rick McClure

Companies handled a grass fire

along the 405 fwy on 6/22/18.

August 2018 • 19
Paid Advertisements:

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

phone:
(800) 244-3439

visit:
www.LAFRA.org

20 • August 2018
On 06/22/18, 98’s and 75’s extricated an elderly pa-
tient from underneath a truck. Photo by Rick McClure

98’s gets creative shutting down a hydrant

on 6/10/18. Photo by David DeMulle’

August 2018 • 21
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22 • August 2018
Extrication from overturned vehicle on 6/9/18 in
the 14700 blk of Rosales St. Photo by Rick McClure

Engine 77 handled an auto on Telfair Ave

on 6/11/18. Photo by Rick McClure

August 2018 • 23
 7/7/18. TF 98 handles a fully engulfwed cab of a trash truck
in the 12300 Blk of Montague St. Photo by Rick McClure

On 6/1/18 four people were injured in a rollover

on the NB 5 Fwy at Paxton St. Photo by Rick McClure

24 • August 2018
 Companies handled five acres of grass along the
5 Fwy in Sylmar on 6/9/18. Photos by Greg Doyle

FF/PM Raymond Covarrubias (FS 64-B) and fiancée Natalie

Mendoza welcomed twin boys Liam and Levi on 5/1/18.

Extrication at 120th Street and Broadway on

7/5/18. LAFD Photo by Thomas Raymond

August 2018 • 25
 The crew at 65 enjoy a little camaraderie prior to the
night activity on the 4th of July. Photo by Yvonne Griffin

Fatality fire at 965 W 47th on 7/2/18. Engine 46 after a garage fire at 5902 2nd
Photo by Yvonne Griffin Ave on 6/30/18. Photo by Yvonne Griffin

26 • August 2018
 TF 60 extricated and transported one patient in the 5200 block
of N Cahuenga Bl on 6/15/18. Photo by Brandon Buckley

On 6/17/18, 89’s handled an SUV that FF/PM Olin Jones (102) and wife Melissa welcomed baby Casey Randall Chickasha
crashed into a tree. Photo by Rick McClure on 5/21/18. Casey showed up a month early and weighed in at just 5lbs 5oz.

August 2018 • 27
 An auto on De Soto Ave near Browns
Cyn on 6/30/18. Photo by Rick McClure

7/07/18. A FF takes advantage of a much needed cool down A rollover with extrication in the 16300 blk of Plum-
after a vegetation fire in 100 degree heat. Photo by Rick McClure mer St. on 6/28/18. Photo by Brandon Buckley

Engine 8 moved up to FS 7 during the brush

fires on 6/12/18. Photo by David Blaire

28 • August 2018
Engine 68 first on scene to a well involved structure fire in June. Photo by Kevin Menendez

Promotional badge presentation at FHMTC for 33

members on June 27, 2018. LAFD Photo Gary Apodaca

August 2018 • 29
 B/C Craig White was recognized as the only LAFD member to participate in
four major out-of-state events that occurred in 2017. LAFD Photo by Erik Scott

Crew 3 assisted LA County on Sierra Hwy The first of 62 memorial street signs which bear the names of fallen LAFD
on 6/19/18. Photo by Jeff Zimmerman firefighters is placed at the location of the tragedy. LAFD Photo Gary Apodaca

30 • August 2018
 Fire 3 refuels at LACOFD Helispot while assisting with a brush
fire in the Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area. Photo by Ken Morris

On 6/12/18, the Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) was used at the Portola Fire to assist
in the transition of the incident to the local fire companies. Photo by Thomas Raymond

LAFD and LAPD safe-summer festival at Rancho

Cienega Park. LAFD Photo by Jerry Ryba

August 2018 • 31
PHYSICAL RESCUE
DTLA
Photos by Keith Cullom

Task Force 10 and Rescue 15 extricated a victim of a traffic

accident at Adams and Broadway on June 6, 2018.

32 • August 2018
 STRUCTURE FIRE
North Hills
Photos by Brandon Buckley

On June 7, 2018, companies responded to a reported structure fire in the 9400 blk of N. Sepulveda Blvd. Upon arrival,
firefighters found a two story, craftsmen style home fully involved in fire. The fire was extinguished in 36 mins.

August 2018 • 33
STRUCTURE FIRE
Panorama City
Photos by Rick McClure

At 10:56 PM on June 22, 2018, 36 firefighters extin-

guished an attached garage fire which had extended into
the attic of a one-story home on the 9300 block of North
Cedros Ave in Panorama City. The well-coordinated ventila-
tion and fire attack stopped the flames in just 20 minutes
with no reported injuries.

34 • August 2018
 STRUCTURE FIRE
Westlake District
Photos by Ivan Meneses

Despite heavy fire involvement, LAFD firefighters were able to extinguish a “Greater
Alarm” blaze in just 58 minutes in the Westlake district. Fortunately, there were no
reported injuries of firefighters or civilian. Photos complements of Photographer—Vid-
eographer—Editor—Ivan Meneses. www.aivisuals.com/

August 2018 • 35
DTLA
US&R Tunnel Rescue Training
LAFD Photos

On June 23, 2018, Urban Search and Rescue companies took part in a simulated underground tunnel rescue
working with the MTA at the Regional Connector Transit Corridor. Tunnel construction creates many potential
dangers which makes a well-coordinated technical rescue crucial to the success of any incident.

36 • August 2018
August 2018 • 37
 Name Assignment Date Retired Date Rank
Richard Pacheco 12/18/1983 08/01/2018 Engineer, FS 16-A
Roberto J. Ledesma 04/05/1985 07/31/2018 Firefighter III, FS 23-A
Lee L. Jabbora 08/10/1980 07/31/2018 Firefighter III, FS 112-B
Donald F. Semenza 01/10/1989 09/30/2018 Captain I, FS 62-A
Vincent E. Jenkins 03/04/1984 07/28/2018 A/O, Heavy Rescue
Carlos S. Martinez 06/23/1986 06/01/2018 Firefighter III, FS 114-A

What Is The...
Extinguisher Fund?
The brain child of Ted Bailie, retired from the LAFD and LAFRA, your sta-
tion’s Extinguisher Fund is a simple way to collect donations for the Widows,
Orphans and Disabled Firemen’s Fund. Ted saw the accumulation of change
that the cook dumped into the mess fund box each shift and had a better idea.
If this change was instead collected for the WODFF he figured it could really
add up. With an average of 50 cents per day per station, in a year there would
be . . . well, you can do the math!
So take your turn in the cooking rotation and remember to drop all your
change into your station’s extinguisher. There should be one in every fire-
house. And any loose change in your pockets, any that you find in the TV
chairs, or hoarded in the “ashtray” of your vehicle can be thrown in for good
measure.
The Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemen’s Fund is the heart of the Re-
lief Association. This fund provides assistance to our firefighters and families
who are faced with personal difficulties and tragedies. Donations are the sole
means of support for this Fund.
Firefighters risk their lives to protect the community on a daily basis. Thus,
they and their families can be comforted in knowing that the “Fire Department
Family,” supported by the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemen’s Fund, is
there for them in times of need.

38 • August 2018
L
ike most American children, Scott Wofford had many hopes and metals--just like the one he recently did for Engineer Bill Bringas’s re-
dreams while growing up. One of those dreams was to become a tirement gift from some friends and co-workers. No job is too big for his
firefighter, which he achieved in 1997. His other cherished aspira- 4’x9’ plasma table, but if it is bigger than that, Scott’s master welding
tion was to own a small business. Prior to starting his career with the skills can handle the job. One of Scott’s signature pieces is the Ameri-
LAFD, Scott worked for a small fire engine manufacturer that built Type can flag and the customizing options are practically endless. Firefighters
III, IV and V brush apparatus and water tenders. While he was there, First Credit Union even has one of Scott’s 9/11 tribute flags displayed
he was able to hone his electrical and fabricating skills, enabling him to in one of their offices. If you have a metal piece, banner, decal, or other
quickly promote to shop foreman. hard to create piece, Scott may be the one that can help you with it!
In 2014 Scott achieved his second dream when Fire Fabrication, Fire Fabrication has worked with fire and police departments
Inc. was born, and across the nation,
he took delivery of
his first CNC plasma
“We laugh, we joke, and we love what we do! No job kid’s sport teams,
and even large gov-
table. Originally the or company is too big or too small…we love them all!” ernment agencies,
plan was only metal such as NASA. Fire
fabrication, with the -Firefighter Scott Wofford Fabrication also
goal of building fire works with business
apparatus. Scott then decided to expand his team and began offering owners to create products and signage for their markets. Scott’s com-
digital printing and graphic design in 2016. pany is striving to bring America back to the forefront of manufacturing.
It didn’t take long until Fire Fabrication’s graphics and printing He prides himself on using American machinery and raw materials, in
department was creating wide format digital prints up to 60” wide. They addition to supporting other small businesses.
can now print on a wide variety of materials, creating banners, flyers, If you have a project in mind and need help developing it, you
decals, and canvas prints including wallpaper and reflective. Scott’s re- can contact Scott at (916) 580-0800 or email him at info@firefabrica-
flective material is perfect for fire department equipment markers, de- tion.com. You can also take a look at his website, www.firefabrication.
cals, and emblems. com, or his company’s Facebook or Instagram pages to see some of his
Scott can also create artistic works from steel and various other projects.

Actual Grapevine cover converted to wallpaper by Fire Fabrications

August 2018 • 39
 Alexis Billings- I am from Claremont,
California and attend Claremont High School
where I will be a part of the graduating class of
2018. I plan to attend CSU Long Beach, where I
will study nursing to become a Nurse Practitio-
ner. My biological mother was a felon, one who
has bipolar disorder, depression, and suffers
from addiction to methamphetamine and other
drugs. My biological father was a neglectful,
abusive man who raised me for the majority of
my life. After severing the ties between my par-
ents and myself, I was taken under the wings
of Rachel and David Dumler who were close
family friends. Eventually, I became a ward of
the court and was placed under guardianship of
the Dumlers. I am a very caring person—one
who seeks to aid anyone in their time of need.
To be able to help others, to make them ulti-
mately feel better when they are in pain would
be the most satisfying part of my life. It would
also be an honor to follow in the footsteps of
my guardian, David Dumler, who has served a
life of helping others by being a firefighter. To
the donors that made this scholarship possible:
Thank you so much. You have no idea what it
means not only to me but to hundreds of other
students who hope to better their future. Thank
you for giving us the opportunity to achieve our
dreams by funding our education.
40 • August 2018
Michael Smith- I have been accepted
to the University of San Diego. I will begin the
fall semester of 2018 and am very excited to
start my college journey toward higher educa-
tion. I have decided to pursue a degree in Busi-
ness Administration. I have a strong desire to
be in charge of my own destiny and to have
control to influence those around me in a posi-
tive way. Being a part of the LAFD family has
meant a great deal to me. I have fond memo-
ries as a child of spending Thanksgiving at the
firehouse. Having a family of 40 to share the
holiday with was an amazing experience. My
step-father, Christopher Sweasey has taught
me to be a kind, conscientious individual and
I have learned so much just by watching him
and his LAFD brothers. As I grew older, I came
to appreciate the depth of camaraderie and sup-
port that comes from being a part of this family.
When my step-father was severely injured on
the job, it was inspiring to see how his broth-
ers supported him while he underwent surgery
and the long road to recovery. My parents and
I are hopeful that through scholarships such as
this one, my contributions through on-campus
work, and the sacrifice my parents continue to
make, I will be able to attend the University
of San Diego which will allow me to continue
my education, gain different perspectives, and
explore and obtain knowledge in new and dif-
ferent areas.
Gabriella Palacios- I will be major-
ing in nursing at Samford University in Bir-
mingham, Alabama this fall. My father, Patrick
Palacios, has worked with the Los Angeles Fire
Department for 23 years. Receiving any type
of scholarship will help me obtain my goal to
become a nurse by allowing me to focus more
on my studying and schoolwork. I am commit-
ted to working hard in school and seeking op-
portunities that could help me make my goals
a reality. Being born into the LAFD family has
given me the opportunity to have two families
growing up. I have seen how the LAFD family
and all of its organizations have come to the
aid of those who have fallen in the line of duty
or have tragically taken their own lives. The
love and support shown to the family during
hard times is what a family provides. I have lis-
tened to my father talk about the members he
has worked with over the years with great pride
and satisfaction. I feel honored to be part of an
organization with a rich history of taking care
of its own members and family, always looking
out for each other just like a family would. The
LAFD family will forever hold a special place
in my life. I am extremely grateful to be part of
the firefighter family. Thank you!
Simone Decker- I’m from Palmdale,
California. I have the most amazing family
and I wouldn’t have been able to accomplish
 for my volunteer group at my local hospital,
and under-secretary-general of logistics for
my school’s Model United Nations Program. I
look forward to what the future holds, and I am
so grateful to the Relief Association for help-
ing me along the way. To the generous people
who have made this scholarship possible, thank
you for providing the students with the oppor-
tunity to succeed academically. Thank you for
making what some once considered a far-off
daydream a reality. Thank you for choosing to
support hard-working parents in their goal for
their children to live happy, fulfilling lives. I
hope to one day give back to my community as
generously and selflessly as you all have.

Abbie Sedillos- I’m from Rancho Palos

Verdes. I’m the daughter of Captain Leonard
Sedillos from Fire Station 80. I’m a senior at
Palos Verdes Peninsula High School and will
be attending Northeastern University in Boston
this coming fall. I plan on majoring in both po-
litical science and environmental studies, then
attending law school with the ultimate goal
of pursuing environmental law. I am the third
generation in a family of firefighters; as both
my father and grandfather have worked for the
LAFD. Though, I have not inherited the physi-
cal prowess that helps make a great firefighter,
I have inherited the LAFD mindset—I want to
help people. Having not only my LAFD family
but the LAFD family as a whole, means being
part of something that is bigger than myself. It
has taught me the values of community service
what I have without my mom, dad, and older Brady Sedillos- I am a senior graduat- and the integrity in which I hope to pay forward
sister by my side! During high school, I have ing from Palos Verdes Peninsula High School. in the years to come. I would not be who I am
been involved with ASB Student Leadership, I will be attending Brown University in Provi- without the support the fire family has given
Cheerleading, Bollywood dance team, Inter- dence, Rhode Island in the fall, studying pre- me throughout my life. Thank you for your
faith Leadership Initiative, and many other fan- medicine. I love to hang out with friends, play kindness and generosity in making it possible
tastic organizations. Outside of school I love to the ukulele, hike in national parks, and read! for people like me to pursue their dreams. I am
spend my time practicing yoga, writing articles My favorite authors include Stephen King and incredibly grateful for the opportunity and end-
for my blog, visiting museums, traveling, and JRR Tolkien. I have been involved in many lessly appreciative of the selflessness of the fire
expanding my photography skills. I feel ex- programs in both my school and community, family that you embody.
tremely lucky to be continuing my education at like acting as vice president and social chair
George Washington University in Washington,
DC, where I aspire to visit every museum and
art exhibition. In the future, I hope to serve the
country by working in National Security for
the FBI or CIA as an intelligence analyst. I also
hope to visit every continent by the age of 50,
and to become a certified yoga instructor. This
scholarship will enable me to enrich my future
by providing me with the means to achieve my
dream of being the first in my family to receive
a college education. Attending college in D.C.
as a Political Science major will provide me
with unbeatable internship and job opportuni-
ties that will help me advance towards my ca-
reer goals. On a broader scale, this scholarship
will allow me to earn my way to a career in
politics where I will influence national policy
and security to better our country. This scholar-
ship will make a D.C. college education much
more accessible to me—a dream that otherwise
be just out of reach.
August 2018 • 41

Dear Andy,
I want to thank you so much for
all your help when Bill passed away this
February. I know it has been four months
and this note should have been written a
while ago, but Bill always told me that if
anything ever happened to him that you
would know what to do and would help
me—and he was right. I knew pretty well
what to do but you gave me confidence
that I did it right, and that if things went
wrong I could ask you for help. So, thank
you again. I didn’t know about the flag and
would have loved it presented at Bill’s me-
morial. The flag and the presentation case
are beautiful. It will always be displayed
in our home. Bill really loved the fire de-
partment; both Los Angeles and Arling-
ton. We had so many wonderful memories
from both departments and all the people
we were privileged to know.
My sincere regards,
Donna Strickland
Los Alamitos, CA
Dear LAFRA,
All the thanks in the world is not
enough to express how much the beauti-
ful flag honoring my dear husband, Basil,
means to me and my family. I will trea-
sure it as long as I live and it will go down
42 • August 2018
through the generations. There are now
four generations that will know that Basil
was part of a wonderful fire family and
how that family took care of us. It has been
a privilege to have been a firemen’s wife
and to have experienced the fire family.
Thank you for taking such good care of me
during my time of loss. I don’t know how
I could have gotten through all the steps
it takes to get things required completed
if you had not been there for me. You all
bless me in a mighty way.
Frances Daughenbaugh
Berryton, KS
LAFRA
Please accept this in memory of our
longtime friend, Dean Cathey. We have
many fond memories of our 25-year Mam-
moth condo partnership and the fun times
on our ski trips.
Sincerely,
Richard and Mary Rozendal
Ramona, CA
LAFRA,
I met Durwood Lewis in 1964 when
I joined the San Fernando Fire Depart-
ment. Durwood was my captain and from
day one he encouraged me to take fire sci-
ence classes, study for engineer and move
on to a larger department. In 1969, I left
San Fernando and joined the LAFD. In
1979, SFFD was taken over by the LAFD
and once again Durwood and I were on the
same department. Durwood was the first
captain from the SFFD to promote to Cap-
tain II.
Durwood was my mentor and friend
and he will be missed.
Tom Drake
Tucson, AZ
LAFRA –
Butchie, I’m going to miss you. If
you called him Conrad [Marcione], you
didn’t know him. To work for/with Butch
was an experience. His sense of humor
and wit was amazing. I met Butch in early
1975 in S. Central and liked him way back
then. Some people didn’t . . . their loss. He
was proud of 90’s and Helitac. He worked
hard at making us good. We traveled with
the Marciones to Mexico, Canada, Italy,
Ireland, England, Argentina . . . I can go
on and on. Butch was also one of our Har-
ley riders and we traveled all over the US.
So to say that you will be missed is an un-
derstatement. God bless you Butch, Rest
in peace my friend.
David L Lowe
Newbury Park, CA
LAFRA –
I first met Butch [Conrad Mar-
cione] when I came to 90’s as a part-time
Pilot/Fireman. As such, with his leg-
endary disdain for pilots, I had the odds
stacked against me for earning any fa-
vor with Butch from the get-go. As time
passed, I wore through that gruff exterior
and earned a place on his crew. With that
breakthrough, I found a top-notch skipper,
craftsman, excellent helicopter crewman
and fun Harley-riding buddy. I, too, en-
joyed the cross-country motorcycle trips
with Butch and Sue, Christmas parties,
houseboat trips, and the list goes on. Never
one to be caught posing or smiling in a pic-
ture, Butch reveled in photo-bombing any
stranger’s pictures, popping up just at the
close of the shutter with that goofy toothy
Create
Createaa Legacy
Legacy
grin. His skill as a craftsman is matched
only by Susie’s eye for decorating if you
have ever seen one of the houses they built
in Agoura and Garnerville. He was the go-
to guy for any construction question. Gon-
na miss you, Buddy. God’s got a Michelob
Ultra in the freezer waiting for you—on its
side, 10 minutes. No more, no less.

Jeff Moir
Newhall, CA

LAFRA –

I drove Chief [Kenneth] Dameron

his first day in Battalion 3. We had a fire in
Baldwin Hills and lost five homes. If not
for Chief Dameron’s quick initial response,
many more homes would have been lost.
Chief Dameron was a true gentleman, and
a pleasure to work with. My condolences
to Brian and all the Damerons.
The Eternal Flame Society is a special group of firefighters, family, friends and
RIP Chief Dameron,
The supporters who have
Eternal Flame included
Society a gift togroup
is a special the Widows, Orphans &family,
of firefighters, Disabled Firemen’s
friends and
Fund in their Estate Plans.
supporters who have included a gift to the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemen’s
Kevin Kearns
Thousand Oaks, CA FundThey’re
in theirvisionary
Estate Plans.
and uncommonly dedicated. Their kindness has helped our
firefighter families overcome unexpected challenges for more than a century.
They’re visionary and uncommonly dedicated. Their kindness has helped our
LAFRA – firefighter families
We invite you toovercome
join theseunexpected challengeshelping
dedicated individuals for more
to than
securea century.
the future of
your firefighter family. With your help, the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemen’s
I first met Dean [Cathey] when he We invite
Fund’s you to join
second these
century willdedicated individualsas helping
be as extraordinary its first. to secure the future of
came to FS 4 as our Capt. II. What a great your firefighter family. With your help, the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemen’s
guy to work with. As mentioned by a few Planned
Fund’s secondgift arrangements
century will be asinclude:
extraordinary as its first.
others, what a talented guy, so he didn’t • Bequest through a will
stay there too long before he was snatched Planned •gift Gift
arrangements include:
through a living trust or other non-charitable trust
up for one of his many Special Duty stints. • •Bequest
Gift ofthrough a will real estate or other assets
life insurance,
A number of years later, I was honored to • •GiftBeneficiary
through a living trust orin other
designation non-charitable
retirement plans trust
be his Staff Assistant in Division I. We had
• Gift of life insurance, real estate or other assets
a great 18 months until the powers that be
got rid of the Division S/A’s. Dean was an • Beneficiary designation in retirement plans
excellent leader, great fire ground officer,
and just a fun guy to be around. The best to
Dean’s family. RIP my old friend, you will
be missed.

Sheldon McKowan
Chatsworth, CA
For information call :
Marlene Casillas, Relief Association Development & Marketing Director, at
(323) 259-5217 or email me at MCasillas@LAFRA.org
For information call :
August
Marlene Casillas, Relief Association Development 2018
& Marketing • 43 at
Director,
(323) 259-5217 or email me at MCasillas@LAFRA.org
 MEMBERS
Robert Moore, Captain.
Appointed November 1, 1948.
Retired on a service pension January 1, 1971 from FS 49-C.
Passed away June 16, 2018.

Earl E. Harris, Engineer.

Appointed January 2, 1962.
Retired on a disability pension August 30, 1997 from FS 112-B.
Passed away June 22, 2018.

Dean E. Murray, Firefighter III.

Appointed July 2, 1956.
Retired on a disability pension June 10, 1982 from FS 88-B.
Passed away July 5, 2018.

Donald E. Brian, Arson Investigator.

Appointed December 18, 1951.
Retired on a disability pension December 7, 1987 from Arson Unit.
Passed away July 5, 2018.

William C. Honohan, Apparatus Operator.

Appointed November 7, 1959.
Retired on a service pension January 13, 1980 from FS 61-A.
Passed away July 5, 2018.

Loren D. Prohaska, Battalion Chief.

Appointed November 2, 1948.
Retired on a service pension June 1, 1977 from Operation S.
Passed away July 9, 2018.

James A. Ullrich, Captain I.

Actively on duty.
Passed away July 12, 2018.

Melvin L. Leydecker, Battalion Chief.

Appointed November 7, 1959.
Retired on a service pension April 7, 1991 from B-15.
Passed away July 12, 2018.

FAMILY
Marilyn M. Rubio, surviving spouse of Robert A. Rubio, passed away June 9, 2018.
Dorothy K. Caldwell, surviving spouse of Michael P. Caldwell, passed away June 10, 2018.
Elizabeth Parker, surviving spouse of Junior L. Parker, passed away June 17, 2018.
Julie A. Stires, spouse of Thomas B. Stires, passed away July 9, 2018.
Florence V. O’Brien, surviving spouse of Florence V. O’Brien, passed away July 15, 2018.

44 • August 2018
O
n June 13, 2018, 80 of our senior golfers met at Montebello The tournament winners are as follows:
CC to compete for the top honors of the LAFD GOLF CLUB
Senior’s Championship. The course was in great shape and the “A” Flight Ages 51 to 59
weather was perfect. This year’s competition wasn’t decided until we
had completed a play off between last year’s champion Gary Gatena and 1st Gross Gary Gatena 72 1st Net Kelly Faulkner 65
challenger Kelly Faulkner. In the playoff, both players parred the par 4, 2nd Pat McOsker 75 2nd Michael Tombrello 65
18th hole, with Kelly scrambling from 40’ away and sinking a 10’ putt 3rd Todd Tsujimura 77 3rd Luther Sherman 72
to tie Gary who left his birdie putt short. The next playoff hole was the 4th Joe Castro 78 4th Allan Black 73
par 5, 17th. Gary was down the middle but Kelly pushed his drive to
the right. Kelly played his shot down the 16th fairway because he was “B” Flight Ages 59 to 63
blocked by trees and made a miraculous through the trees shot from 135
yards on to the green leaving a 20’ downhill putt. Gary had a bad lie and 1st Gross Jeff Simon 79 1st Net Rick Sesma 65
managed to lay up to 100 yards and put his approach shot 8’ from the 2nd Andy Zar 81 2nd Gary Cline 69
hole. Kelly left his putt 8” to the left, leaving the door open for Gary, 3rd Paul Gamez 83 3rd Dennis Harada 69
who holed his putt for a birdie and the win. Congratulations to both play- 4th Robert Franz 83 4th Mike Monroy 70
ers who posted 72 to make the playoff. This is Gary’s 3rd Senior’s win in
a row. Congratulations Gary! “C” Flight Ages 64 to 69
Dale Gant posted a 74, Andy Zar 75, Todd Tsujimura 77, Joe
Castro 78, Jeff Simon 79 and 77 Years young Gary Klasse 74 (shot under 1st Gross Dale Gant 74 1st Net Sergio Perez 70*
his age). On the Net side, Steve Stigall shot a net 60!! Congratulations 2nd Steve Schulz 80 2nd Jim Horimoto 70*
on a great round Steve. Both winners will represent the LAFD Golf Club 3rd Chet Page 81 3rd Dave Baiz 72*
in the Tournament of Champions competition in December. Good luck 4th Noel Murchet 82 4th Pete Benesch 72*
guys!
I’m always in awe of our octogenarians who make the tourna- “D” Flight Ages 69 to 87
ment. This year we had Tom Harrison at 87 and Mac McOsker at 80.
Glad to see you guys and hope to see you next year. !st Gross Gary Klasse 74 1st Net Steve Stigall 60
2nd Steve Sutliff 82 2nd Robert Clements 66
We have been fortunate to have some great sponsors for our tourney: 3rd Randy Judd 84 3rd Bill Stires 69
• Kevin Wright, Senior Vice President and Financial advisor 4th John Hendricks 84 4th Tom Harrison 69
with Morgan Stanley. See Kevin for Deferred Comp. and Drop financial
advice. Congratulations to all of our winners. We’ll see you next year.
• Gold Lee and Adam Turner of the Lewis, Marenstein, Wicke,
Sherwin and Lee group. Loved the Apple watches. See Gold and Adam Dale Gant
for your Work Comp issues. Tournament Chairman
• Wood Ranch GC and Woodland Hills CC.

Thanks to the LAFDGC board for their behind the scenes help.
Great job guys.

A Flight Low Gross and Low Net Champions C Flight Low Gross and Low Net Champions D Flight Low Gross and Low Net Champions
Gary Gatena and Kelly Faulknera Dale Gant and Sergio Perez Gary Klasse and Steve Stigall

B Flight Low Net and Low Gross Champions LAFD Golf Club President Dale Gant presenting the
Rick Sesma and Jeff Simon plaque to Senior Low Gross Champion Gary Gatena
August 2018 • 45
 FIREFIGHTER
MEMORIAL
September 15, 2018

Kelly Wong
&
Dave Moorman
Fire Hogs M/C
Join us on a journey to honor our own.

Fallen Firefighter Memorial The 32nd IAFF Fallen Colorado Springs, honors Scan QR Code for RSVP
1315 Pikes Peak Ave. Fire Fighter Memorial the sacrifice made by and details or copy &
Colorado Springs, CO 80909 service will be held on IAFF members who have paste link below.
Saturday, September 15 given their lives in the
in Colorado Springs, line of duty. http://evite.me/
Colorado. At this year’s gNCQkMktXF
memorial service, the The annual ceremony
IAFF will add 261 fallen remains an uplifting
fire fighters from the service for the families,
United States and Canada friends and loved ones,
to the Wall of Honor. celebrating the lives,
heroism and
The Fallen Fire Fighter accomplishments of our
Memorial, located in the union’s bravest of the
shadow of Pikes Peak in brave.

46 • August 2018
O
n June 28, 2018, LAX installed 103 Stop-the-Bleed kits through-
out the nine terminals of the airport. There is now a Stop-the-
Bleed kit placed less than a three-minute walk from anywhere in
LAX. This is the culmination of years of planning and training in which
LAFD members have educated and trained members from the TSA, Los
Angeles World Airport Police, and the Custom and Border Protection.
LAX is now the first major airport in the nation to provide this level of
hemorrhage control and access to life saving equipment to members of
the public.
To take a more proactive approach in protecting the citizens dur-
ing an Active Shooter incident, the LAFD has partnered with the DHS in
the “Stop the Bleed” campaign. Through the Stop the Bleed campaign,
the LAFD is training and empowering ordinary citizens with the knowl-
edge and ability to help save a life. As part of the Fire Chief’s Strategic
Plan, the Tactical Emergency Medical Support Unit (TEMS) and the
Community Risk Reduction Unit have been charged with presenting this
training to our private and public partners along with community stake-
holders.
The national Stop the Bleed campaign
fills a critical link in the chain of
survival until first-responders arrive
on the scene.”
No matter how rapidly police officers and firefighters arrive at
the scene of an Active Shooter, bystanders will always be there first. A
person can die from blood loss sustained from a gunshot wound within
five minutes. Therefore, it is critical to quickly stop the bleeding. His-
tory has shown that those nearest to someone with a life-threatening in-
jury are best positioned to provide lifesaving care. To help combat the
two preventable causes of death from an Active Shooter (hemorrhaging
and respiratory distress), Stop the Bleed kits have been created. Stop the
Bleed kits are Basic Life Support (BLS) items contained in a convenient
bag that can easily be stored and deployed when necessary. They consist
of a tourniquet, a chest seal, an emergency bandage (compression wrap),
a roll of compressed gauze dressing, a pair of trauma shears, and latex
free gloves. Through its Emergency Management Division, LAWA has
ordered 250 of the kits at a cost of $17,125 from North American Rescue.
One to two kits are in each AED cabinet. Just like the AEDs, the kits
include instructions to help bystanders render aid
Dr. Marc Eckstein, the LAFD Medical Directors said, “What
we’ve learned over the years is our ability to protect the public is tru-
ly dependent on the public’s involvement. The tools in these kits are
extremely easy to apply, and they are designed to be used by any lay-
rescuer to save the life of another, or even their own life. These kits truly
work, they stem hemorrhage and they save lives. This is truly another
step to provide for public safety at one of the world’s busiest airports. It
is the LAFD’s ongoing mission to provide exceptional Fire Protection
and Emergency Medical Services. The LAFD is not only committed to
proactively leading the way in preparation and response to an Active
Shooter incident, but in providing our citizens with the ability to poten-
tially save the lives of their loved ones and community members.”
Launched in October of 2015 by the White House, Stop the Bleed
is a national awareness campaign and a call to action. Stop the Bleed is
intended to cultivate grassroots efforts that encourage bystanders to be-
come trained, equipped, and empowered to help in a bleeding emergency
before professional help arrives. To learn more visit (www.dhs.gov/stop-
thebleed).
August 2018 • 47
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48 • August 2018
T
he 2018 Firefighter Summer Olympics
began on June 24, 2018. San Diego was
the host site for the second year in a row.
On the 25th, Over the Line Tourney play began.
The tournament was held at Mariners Point and
21 teams took to the sand. To level out the play-
ing field there were three flights based on how the
teams performed. Two LAFD teams took home
medals.
In the “A” Flight, Gangreen: Russ Barnes
(15 C), Joe Cunningham (1 C), Keith Bandy (64
A) and Corey OBRYAN (3 B) brought home the
Bronze medal after a close 4 to 3 loss to Chula
Vista. In the “B” Flight LAFD’s Grey and Still
Hanging: Ray Hamel (LAFD Retired), Chris Vil-
lavicencio (18 B), Robert Ward (66 B) and Sean
Millett (DT 81) defeated a combo team from San
Francisco/San Mateo 16 to 5 to take the Gold.
It was a great day on the beach and many of the
participants brought their families out to make a
day out of it. Special thanks to retired members
Tommy Czbeck and Brett Davis for their help
running the tournament!! See ya next Year!!

W
illiam Fischer (50-B) took the
Gold in long boarding Men’s
Open Division. The competition
was held at Churches, San Onofre.

August 2018 • 49
 Paid Advertisement

50 • August 2018
August 2018 • 51

LAFD HISTORY – Hurricane Katrina - LAFD Response - Aug 2005 to Sep 2005
Frank’s Note: Hurricane Katrina was a devas-
tating disaster for the gulf coast region of the
USA. At the request from FEMA, the LAFD re-
sponded with a variety of desperately needed
resources. The following story contains two ar-
ticles published with first-hand accounts of the
disaster followed by a summary I edited from
an excellent LAFD Situation report. These re-
ports were done on a daily basis. In all, Hur-
ricane Katrina killed nearly 2,000 people and
affected some 90,000 square miles. According
to FEMA, the total damage for Katrina is esti-
mated at $108 billion.
INITIAL LAFD COMPANIES DEPLOYED
TO THE GULF COAST FOR HURRI-
CANE KATRINA
Monday, August 29, 2005
USAR SWIFT WATER - 14 Members
• Mission: Utilizing boats and personal
water craft to locate and rescue
hurricane victims in and around
New Orleans.
• Base: Metarie, Louisiana at the New
Orleans Saints Football Training Camp.
Wednesday, August 31, 2005
USAR TF (CATF-1)- 70 Members
• Mission: Conduct technical search
and rescue operations within the hotel/
casinos damaged by hurricane.
• Base: Gulfport, Mississippi
LAFD CISM TEAM
• Mission: To assist local authorities.
• Base: Deployed in and around
New Orleans
LAFD Swift Water Response Rig
52 • August 2018
Submitted by Frank Borden • Director of Operations, LAFDHS
HEADQUARTERS GAZETTE (Article)
L.A. Fire Teams
See Devastation in South up Close
By Josh Kleinbaum
Staff Writer Daily News
Photos added by Frank Borden
The 14 members of the Los Angeles Fire
Department’s swift-water rescue team were
shocked by the sight of ruin and desperation
when they arrived this week on the outskirts of
A young survivor sits among the ruins of his home
New Orleans, officials said Friday. While far
with nothing left except his stuffed animal and the
from the Superdome and the convention center,
shorts he is wearing.
where lawlessness and suffering in the wake of
Hurricane Katrina have grabbed headlines, the But with victims crying for help every-
pain and suffering they witnessed was just as where, the firefighters were forced to prioritize
heart-rending. - more critical victims became more desperate
“They were horrified,” Fire Department and the region descended into lawlessness, the
spokeswoman Melissa Kelly said. “There were rescue operation became too dangerous, and
dead bodies floating in the water. There were FEMA ordered the unit to pull back. “(They)
so many snakes and animals and all kinds of went to people with immediate need,” Kelley
things that they stopped and purchased machet- said. “When you have a person who can sur-
es for their own protection - protection from vive for a couple hours and a person clinging to
the elements, not the people.” On Wednesday, life, the person clinging to life is the person in
the team was deployed to a 2-mile-by-6-mile immediate need, rather than the person walk-
zone in Louisiana outside New Orleans, where ing around screaming about his broken ankle.”
they rescued 197 adults and 47 children, Kel- Prioritization is where people started getting
ley said. angry. That’s why they were called off that
An aerial view of flooded downtown New Orleans.
night. We were told to stand down because of
the uprising.” A Paramedic in a helicopter on his
Seventy more Los Angeles firefighters, way to a rescue views the flooding.
from the department’s Urban Search and Res-
cue Team, left for Jackson, Miss. on Wednes-
day to join the relief effort. With telephone
lines and other means of communication down,
the LAFD can only communicate with the
team through satellite phone, and only when
the team calls Los Angeles. The team has not
checked in since arriving in Dallas on Thursday
morning to await their instructions, Kelly said.

Local Firefighter Recounts

Scene in New Orleans

The Santa Clarita Valley Signal

September 9, 2005
Adam Clark Signal Staff Writer
Photos added by Frank Borden

You can’t necessarily see the bodies,
but you can smell them, said veteran firefighter
Brian LaBrie. In New Orleans since the day People being rescued from a flooded home
Hurricane Katrina made landfall, LaBrie, of
Santa Clarita, said it is the worst disaster he has
seen in his 17-year career as a swift water res-
cue specialist for the Los Angeles Fire Depart-
ment.
LaBrie was deployed to New York after
the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. He was in
Oklahoma City for the bombing of the federal
building in 1995, and he was in Los Angeles
for the 1992 riots.
On Aug. 29, he and the 13 other mem-
bers of his team were deployed to New Orleans
where they have been rescuing hundreds of
men, women and children.
People ask me to describe it. I tell
them it’s the (Los Angeles) riots, Sept. 11 and
the Sacramento floods all rolled into one, said
LaBrie, who also is affiliated with FEMA and
is part of a rescue team that is generally the
first on site at any national disaster. LaBrie said • Federal officials chartered three Car- Canadian Navy are expected to arrive on Sep-
he and members of his team have met death, nival Cruise Lines ships for six months to tember 10 to assist as needed.
destruction and violence at every turn. (There provide shelter for Hurricane Katrina evacu- • England has offered aircraft and
is) the massive destruction of the water and the ees. Two of these cruise ships will deploy to 1,100 tons of meals-ready-to-eat.
flooding, he said. There is the violence where Galveston and will be used for elderly care • The Department of Transportation is
rescue workers are being shot at and boats are and people with special needs. The third ship coordinating pharmaceutical shipments from
being stolen at gun point, and then there is the is scheduled to arrive in Mobile, Ala to begin the Netherlands and Canada.
massive death (toll). lodging about 1,800 displaced persons. • A total of 59 corpses have so far been
• Seven Disaster Recovery Centers recovered in New Orleans, officials said over-
HURRICANE KATRINA (DRCs) are now operational (6 in Alabama; 1 night, cautioning that the first official death toll
SITUATION REPORT LAFD in Texas). from Hurricane Katrina was just a fraction of
Situation Report Prepared by LAFD Special • 34,845 National Guard members those killed.
Operations Division, Homeland Security In- from 42 states are currently deployed. 36,245 • A total of 466 public water systems
telligence Section. (Edited version) are anticipated to be in place by September 6. (serving 1.2 million people) have been nega-
September 5, 2005, 0800 HOURS PST • Chief Naval Operations (CNO) ap- tively impacted and are not operating normally.
proved a waiver for civilian helicopter opera- • A major oil spill into the Mississip-
I. Situation Summary: tions on board USN amphibious ships in sup- pi River was reported 30 miles south of New
port of relief operations. Orleans.
• The Coast Guard reports that over • The USS BATAAN is in the region • An anhydrous ammonia leak oc-
22,785 survivors have been rescued so far. and is ready to begin accepting patients curred from an estimated 25,000 ton tank in the
9,400 patients have been evacuated from area • One destroyer and two frigates by Bayou Casotte area of Pascagoula, MS
hospitals.
August 2018 • 53
 • The national preparedness increased The LAFD still has three USAR Task
to level 4 on September 1 in recognition of Forces (FS 88, FS 27, FS 85) available to han-
current and predicted support to Hurricane Ka- dle local incidents, if needed.
trina. National Preparedness Level 4 means 100 California Highway Patrol officers
two or more geographic areas are experiencing will be deployed to Louisiana.
incidents requiring Type 1 Teams..
IV. Miscellaneous Important Information:
Reported Yesterday:
Fatalities (Confirmed): No current up-
• A Eurocopter AS 332 Super Puma date available for this report. LAFD rescue boat
helicopter crashed northwest of downtown
New Orleans Sunday evening. The pilot and
crew sustained minor injuries and were rescued
The report continued with information on Se-
by the Coast Guard.
curity, Electrical Outages, Communications
• CNN has developed a service to al-
and Shelters (274,100 in shelters or in transit).
low refugees and others affected by the hurri-
The LAFD Swift Water and US&R Task Force
cane to post their name and let others know that
(CATF 1) have responded to many California
they are safe.
and US disasters since Katrina.
Weather Forecast:
One of thousands devastated homes in Mississippi

Hurricane Maria continues to slowly

strengthen. Warm waters have aided in Maria’s
intensification as current sustained winds are
now 90mph. Maria is located several hundred
miles east of Bermuda and thankfully is fore-
cast to move north and eventually to the north-
east making no impact on the United States.

III. Current Actions:

CATF-1 (Team 3 – Swift Water Res-

cue) worked a full operational period yesterday
(Sunday). They were airlifted to the same iso-
lated area that they worked on Saturday. Many Hurricane Katrina Heading for New Orleans.
of the areas in this sector were only under one
foot of water. Therefore, they commandeered
a forklift, dump truck, and a fire truck to move
AUGUST 2018
about more easily. This enabled them to de-
liver meals-ready-to-eat and water too many of
the residents that are still stranded in this area
of Louisiana
Morale remains high, no injuries or ill-
nesses have been reported, and they are now
receiving full logistical support (showers, hot
meals, decon, etc.).
CATF-1 (USAR) received deployment
orders last night. They are en route to Gulfport
Mississippi, approximately 580 miles from
Dallas, where they will be assigned to work.
LAFD’s B/C Richard Warford, as part
of an Incident Management Team, has been as-
signed to the FEMA Program Office in Wash-
ington DC
LAFD’s B/C Mark Saxelby and Cap-
tain Wade White, as part of an Incident Support
Team, are currently deployed to Gulfport, Mis-
sissippi.

Reported yesterday:
This incident marks the first deploy-
ment of Swift Water Rescue resources as part
of a FEMA deployment.

54 • August 2018
 LOS ANGELES FIREMEN’S RELIEF ASSOCIATION MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES
June 6, 2018

CALL TO ORDER Board Meeting Minutes of May 30, 2018. VICE PRESIDENT REPORT

President Bob Steinbacher called the meeting PRESIDENT’S REPORT 1) Jeff Cawdrey referred to the upcoming
of the Board of Trustees of the Los Angeles conferences and indicated that Rick Godinez
Firemen’s Relief Association to order at 1) Bob Steinbacher referred to the Scholarship and Joseph Vigil will be attending the Benefit
9:49 a.m. Awards and indicated that some of the awards and Communication Technology conference
to a few recipients will be distributed today in July. He indicated that the annual IFEBP
ROLL CALL and will reschedule the rest when they are conference will be held in New Orleans this
available. year.
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Bob Steinbacher, President 2) Bob Steinbacher reported on the Pechanga 2) Jeff Cawdrey referred to the changes made
Jeff Cawdrey, Vice President Reunion and indicated that the event was well to the Policy Book and indicated that those
Andrew Kuljis, Secretary attended. He thanked Steve Domanski, Tim changes need to be approve at the July Board
Trustee Tyler Tomich Larson and Doak Smith for their efforts with meeting. He indicated that the Administrative
Trustee Danny Wu planning the event. Committee discussed placing verbiage in the
Trustee Rick Godinez policy book referring to plaque purchases for
Trustee Craig White 3) Bob Steinbacher referred to the Colorado Fire Stations related to Line of Duty Deaths.
Trustee Jim Duffy Springs Memorial and reported that the Family
Trustee Frank Aguirre Support Group held a meeting with UFLAC EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Trustee Kenneth Breskin andLAFRAtodiscussplanningandcommunication.
Trustee Chris Stine 1) Todd Layfer referred to Hope for Firefighters
Trustee Richard Moody 4) Jeff Cawdrey reported on the meeting with and indicated that they went through a walk
Trustee Henry Gasbarri Express Scripts and PSG. He indicated that through with the security company.
Trustee Gene Bednarchik PSG provided results from an audit performed
Trustee Mike Sailhamer on the Express Scripts data and reported no 2) Todd Layfer informed that he and Bob
Trustee Tim Larson – Pension significant issues. Steinbacher will meet with the insurance
Trustee Steve Domanski - Pension broker to discuss insurance renewals on
Trustee Doak Smith – Pension 5) Bob Steinbacher reported on the Drill Tower June 25th.
Todd Layfer - Executive Director recruit class and indicated that all 47 recruits
Liberty Unciano – Controller-Treasurer signed up for Relief Membership and the 3) Todd Layfer referred to the Relief Dues
Medical Plan. and indicated that they will be increasing in
MEMBERS ABSENT: July. New amounts for Actives will be $68 per
Trustee Gayle Sonoda 6) Bob Steinbacher informed the Board that month and Retirees will be $6.18 per month.
Trustee John Jacobsen there will be no LAFRA Holiday party this
Trustee Tim Freeman year. 4) Todd Layfer informed that the Wellness
Trustee Steve Berkery Program benefit communication will be going
Trustee David Peters 7) Bob Steinbacher presented Liberty Unciano out the last week of June to be as close to the
Trustee Joe Vigil and Juliet Brandolino an employee recognition implementation date of July 1st.
plaque for their 10 years of service to LAFRA.
INVOCATION & Flag Salute 5) Todd Layfer reported that the WODFF
8) Bob Steinbacher provided a Pension update received an anonymous donation in the amount
Rick Godinez led the invocation. Chris Stine and indicated that we have been going back of $850,000. He indicated that this was part of
led the flag salute. and forth with the contract items. the efforts of Marlene Casillas and the Planned
Giving Program.
RATIFICATION OF MINUTES EXECUTIVE SESSION
ADMINISTRATIVE COMMITTEE
Bob Steinbacher entertained a motion to ratify The Board entered into Executive Session at REPORT
and approve the Board Meeting Minutes 10:26 a.m.
of May 9th and the Special Board Meeting The Board adjourned from Executive Session Frank Aguirre presented the following
minutes of May 30, 2018. Steve Domanski so at 10:40 a.m. motions.
moved. Tim Larson seconded. There was no
discussion or objections. Personnel matters and member updates were The committee recommends and I so move to
discussed during Executive Session. No pay the usual and customary bills in the amount
Motion carried to approve minutes Board actions were taken. of $962,429.71. There was no discussion or
Meeting Minutes of May 9 and the Special objections.

August 2018 • 55
Motion carried to pay the usual and
customary bills in the amount of $962,429.71.
The committee recommends and I so move
to approve $200 for the LAFD CER Awards.
There was no discussion or objections.
Motion carried to approve $200 for the
LAFD CER Awards.
The committee recommend and I so move
to approve $125 for the LAFD Promotional
Badge Ceremony. There was no discussion or
objections.
Motion carried to approve $125 for the LAFD
Promotional Badge Ceremony.
The committee recommends and I so move
to approve $1,519.46 to purchase a plaque at
Air Ops for Fire 3. There was no discussion or
objections.
Motion carried to approve $1,519.46 to
purchase a plaque at Air Ops for Fire 3.
The committee recommends and I so move
to approve $4,962.50 to purchase new Honor
Guard uniforms. Craig White indicated that
moving forward, the LAFD will be paying
for these uniforms. There was no further
discussion or objections.
Motion carried to approve $4,962.50 to
purchase new Honor Guard uniforms.
MEDICAL COMMITTEE REPORT
Frank Aguirre presented the following motion.
The committee recommends and I so move to
accept the applications to the Medical Plan.
There was no discussion and no objections.
Motion carried to accept all applications to
the Medical Plan.
RELIEF COMMITTEE REPORT
Mike Sailhamer presented the following
motion.
The committee recommends and I so move to
pay:
The Sick & Injury benefits in the amount of
$10,401.82
The Estate Planning benefit in the amount of
$4,200
56 • August 2018
The Life & Accident Death Benefit in the
amount of $12,000
The Relief Death Benefits in the amount of
$25,000
There was no discussion or objections.
Motion carried to pay the above Relief
benefits.
Mike Sailhamer read the names of members
who recently passed and asked for a moment
of silence from the Board.
MEMORIALS
Donald W. Honus
Robert L. Reed
Lee S. Horn
Cecil D. Morris
Lex Winter
ASSISTANCE COMMITTEE
Mike Sailhamer presented the following
motions.
The committee recommends and I so move to
accept the donations in the amount of $6,936.01
to the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemen’s
Fund. There was no discussion or objections.
Motion carried to accept the donations in the
amount of $6,936.01 to the Widows, Orphans
& Disabled Firemen’s Fund.
The committee recommends and I so move to
approve the financial assistance applications for
surviving spouses, active and retired members.
There was no discussion or objections.
Motion carried to approve the financial
assistance applications for surviving spouses,
active and retired members.
ADVANCEMENT COMMITTEE
REPORT
The committee recommends and I so move
to advance funds for both active and retired
members. There was no discussion or
objections.
Motion carried to advance funds for both
active and retired members.
SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE REPORT
Rick Godinez indicated that they will present
four more Scholarship winners on June 20th.
MARKETING & DEVELOPMENT
Rick Godinez referred to the anonymous
$850K donation to the WODFF and how the
Planned Giving Program works. He indicated
that Marlene Casillas suggested considering
creating an Eternal Flame Wall that would
contain plaques of those making substantial
donations.
Rick Godinez referred to the L.A. Marathon
and indicated that the WODFF has been
accepted as a preferred charity for the 2019
race.
Rick Godinez referred to the Golf Tournament
and indicated that the Marketing Department
has been working on soliciting donors.
Rick Godinez presented a video highlighting
some of our members and their stories of how
the Relief Association has helped them. He
indicated that this video will be placed on the
LAFRA and WODFF websites.
SETTING OF DATES
1) Hope for Firefighters – June 7th
2) Henry Munoz Fundraiser - June 10th
3) Fire Hogs Memorial Run – July 14th
4) LAFRA Board Offsite – September 23rd
5) LAFD Invitational Golf Tournament –
September 24th
6) IFEBP Annual Conf. – October 14 – 16
7) LAFRA Open House – November 3rd
RETIREMENT DINNERS
1) Mark Akahoshi – July 26th B @ Brookside
Golf & Country Club (Aguirre)
ADJOURNMENT
Bob Steinbacher entertained a motion to
adjourn. Craig White so moved. Tim Larson
seconded. There was no discussion and no
objections.
Motion carried to adjourn. The Board of
Trustees meeting adjourned at 11:22 a.m.
Bob Steinbacher, President
 Donations to Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemen’s Fund - July 2018

HENRY A. MUNOZ from the proceeds of t-shirts sales from event MAC TREASURE in honor of LAFRA

DALBERT L. HOWARD in memory of Ken Dameron MARTA TYLER in memory of Nick Ling

JAMES M. KREBS JOSEPH WILKINSON in memory of Betty Stepan

DARLYNE WILLIAMS in memory of Ken Dameron MELANIE ALLEN in memory of Glenn Allen

CHERI C. MILDREN in memory of Richard M. Smith BRETT BIGLEY in honor of Chloe & Avery Lee

LINDA MARTIN in memory of Richard M. Smith SARAH BRACKEN in memory of Brian Lee

FIRE STATION NO. 114 from the Fire Extinguisher Fund MICHELLE GREEN in honor of Chloe & Avery Lee

MARY L. HABERKORN in memory of Ken Dameron TONY HIDALGO in memory of Dean Cathey

MICHAEL I. GAROT MALEN JACOBS in memory of Earl Harris

DONALD L. CATE in memory of Lois Cate HWANHEE KIM

CECE ALGRA in memory of Nick Ling AMANDA KUEHN in honor of Brian Lee

SHARON BISHOP in memory of David T. Moorman RONALD LEYDECKER in memory of Gerald Moore

EMILY BURDINE in memory of Susanne Devereaux JEFFREY MILLS in memory of James M. Mills

PATRICK CROWLEY in honor of Frank Brown KELLEY ORLANDO in memory of Brian Lee

CAROLYN GILBERT in memory of Nick Ling PAULA PEREZ in honor of Chloe Lee

ALEXANDER GLASS in memory of Nick Ling LIANA PRINTSIAN

JOHN GRAHAM in honor of Nick Ling JERRY ROSE in memory of Candice Rose

GEORGE & JEANNETTE HUTCHISON in memory of Don Honus DIONNE SANCHEZ in honor of Chloe & Avery Lee

SARAH-JANE KING in memory of Nick Ling JANE WALSH in honor of Elizabeth Parker

KATHERINE KITTLEMAN in honor of Nick Ling JOSEPH WILKINSON in memory of Gene Stepan

DON KROTEE JOSEPH WILKINSON in memory of Ben Wilkinson

BRIAN PABOOJIAN in memory of Nick Ling BILL WILLIAMS in honor of Henry Munoz

DENNIS STRONG in memory of Ken Dameron PATRICIA WOHLERS in memory of Brian Lee

Paid Advertisement:

August 2018 • 57
 CLASSIFIEDS
For advertising information, please contact:
Eric Santiago - (323) 259-5231 - eric@lafra.org
MERCHANDISE
FOR SALE
TIRES FOR SALE. Goodyear
Eagle F1 Asymmetrical (Run
Flat) 225/40/19 (89Y) - $250 ea.
255/35/19 (92Y) - $200 ea.
REAL ESTATE
FOR SALE
UNIQUE 20 ACRE PROPERTY
suited for private estate between
Los Angeles and San Diego on
the Reagan Ranch properties.
Twenty minutes from Tem-
ecula Wine Country, you will find
privacy and beauty. Located in
Tenaja Valley, enjoy miles of hik-
ing and equestrian trails, groves
of oak trees and seasonal
running streams. On a water
table, so well-ready. Excellent
retirement property with multiple
options.Contact LAFD Engineer
Chad Logan (562)537-9644
SERVICES
ARE YOU LOOKING TO
BUY, SELL, INVEST IN A
HOME?  Call me, Diana Fuen-
tes, Realtor® and wife to Fire
Captain 56A at 661.373.6569,
dianafuentesrealtor.com,
diana@nchal.com. I also
specialize in Probate Sales.  A
generous donation, at close of
escrow to Adopt-A-Station.
Cal-BRE License 01794244.
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.
CALI+HI PHOTOGRAPHY
Weddings, Family, Maternity,
Newborns Lifestyle + Portrait
Photography
CALIHIPHOTOGRAPHY.COM
58 • August 2018
Contact:
calihi@calihiphotography.com
Follow on Instagram:
@ calihi_photography
LAFD FIRE FAMILY
CRAIG SANFORD HEATING &
AIR - Free estimates, residen-
tial, commercial. Great rates for
LAFD and LAPD. Toll free (877)
891-1414, (661) 298-3070, FAX
(661) 298-3069. State License
No. 527114
DEFERRED COMPENSATION
MANAGEMENT: Introducing
My Deferred Compensation
Manager® AL HEWITT, INC., a
FEE-ONLY Financial Planning
and Investment Management
Firm, offers Comprehensive
Deferred Compensation Man-
agement using Elite Institutional
Money Managers. Personalized
portfolio selection and ongoing
management of your deferred
compensation assets. Invest-
ment Management of other
retirement and non-retirement
assets is also available. We
charge a fixed flat advisory
fee to manage your deferred
compensation plan. We do NOT
charge a percentage of assets
under management. (800) 573-
4829. www.ALHEWITT.com
EXECUTIVE RETIREMENT
SOLUTIONS, (ERS INC.)
We are a professional planning
organization that specializes in
“tax-free” and secure retirement
plan strategies which allow the
public to benefit from competent
and ethical financial planning.
We have offices in Palos Verdes
and Simi Valley, California. Call
Todd Ford (424) 772-6050 or fax
(424) 242-0002 or email:
todd@toddcford.com
FIRE FAMILY ESTATE SALES
– Call us when a loved one
passes, moves to a nursing facil-
ity or downsizes. Our profession-
al staff can handle every aspect
of estate liquidation. We have
worked with many fire families
and are here to help. Rebecca
Martin, (818) 216-3637
www.firefamilyestatesales.
com
FRANCHISORS WANT TO
PARTNER WITH FIREFIGHT-
ERS. Have you considered own-
ing a franchise? Most brands
offer 1st Responder and Veteran
discounts. Let me help you sort
through the options for free! The
franchisor pays me. I’m the son
and grandson of LAFD, Army
veteran and multi-unit franchi-
see. andy@thefranchisecon
sultingcompany.com
GARAGE DOOR INSTALLA-
TION & SERVICE. Garage
doors and openers. Need to
replace your broken springs?
or does your door need repair,
even replaced? We do it all from
new product to repairing old.
Call (661) 860-4563 Grassroots
Garage Doors, Inc. Lic# 950020.
Son of 35 year veteran fireman.
MACKENZIE TUCKER HOUSE
SITTING & PET SITTER. Short
or extended stays. For Reserva-
tions, call (661)703-7154
TuckerMackenzie@rocket
mail.com
RED IRRITATED SKIN? Aging
lines, sun spots, acne or loss of
firmness? Rodan and Fields skin
products are clinically proven to
change your skin. Start using
products that make a difference.
Go to: https:/annatsanchez.
myrandf.com - Love the prod-
ucts? Start selling them online
and become an independent
consultant. Call Annet (626) 818-
1846 for more information.
SOUTHBAY EXPOSURE
PHOTOGRAPHY. Professional
photography services for all
wedding, family, student, life-
style, sports or events Serving
Southern Calif and destinations
beyond. Member of Pro Photog-
raphers of Calif. Aerial photo and
video also available. FAA certi-
fied. SouthbayExposure.com
(800) 448-0788. Tony Senior
LAFD retired
WINDOWS & PATIO DOORS
- vinyl replacement windows
& Patio doors. I also carry
aluminum, wood and entry door
systems. Rick Brandelli, Capt.
LACoFD, FS 8-C (800) 667-
6676. www.GeeWindows.com
VACATION
RENTALS
BASS LAKE - Lake view 2 story
cabin. 3 bedroom, sleeps 7 , 21/2
bath,forced air, big screen cable
T.V. / WIFI, red wood deck , gas
BBQ, fully furnished except linens,
walk to marina/pines village.
No smoking or pets. $200/night
+$100 cleaning. 4 night minimum
Larry Harris LAFD retired (805)
509-5739
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 - Beautiful decked
two story cabin. 2 bedroom, 1
bath. Sleeps six. Pets OK. Near
lake, slopes, shopping. Fire-
place/wood, cable/WiFi. Fully
furnished except linens. Winter
$110/$650. Summer $100/$550.
2 night minimum.
www.schaffercabin.com
Call Donna/Beep (760)723-
1475.
BIG BEAR LAKE’S 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 nmbigbear@
gmail.com
BULLHEAD CITY, AZ. Home for
rent with river access, 15 min-
utes to casinos. Google search
airbnb 17558148 for pictures
and more info. Call for Grape-
vine rates. Contact Lewis Smith
112-B (310)261-0894
CATALINA BEACH COTTAGE
- 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, one block
to beach, view, fully equipped
housekeeping unit. Marci (818)
347-6783 or Clarence (310) 510-
2721.
CATALINA CONDO - HAM-
ILTON COVE. Ocean front, 1
bed, 1 1/2 bath, sleeps 4. Steps
to beach, pool, gym, putting
course, tennis and more. Newly
refurbished, fully equipped.
Includes golf cart, WiFi. Contact
Bart @ (310) 510-0190. Ham-
iltoncove.com. Ask for “LAFD
8-89” discount. Owner active
LAFD.
COEUR D’ALENE IDAHO
Lakeside Resort Town. 1909
Vintage Vacation Home walking
distance to lake and downtown
entertainment. Sleeps 12 with
5 Bed-2 Ba, 3000 sq ft Fully
Furnished including Hot Tub.
Winter, Summer, Spring or Fall
easily accessible from Spokane
Airport. www.vacasa.com/unit.
php?UnitID=11928
http://www.vacasa.com/unit.
php?UnitID=11928
LAFD Family Owned
JUNE LAKE CABIN - 2BR/2BA
cabin with Carson Peak
view. Close to fishing & ski-
ing. Furnished, wood deck,
equipped kitchen, wood burning
stove, tree swing, cable /DVD/
phone. Garage/ample parking.
$100/night plus cleaning fee.
Email for pictures. Jeff Easton
LAFD retired (805) 217-5602.
junebound@gmail.com
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
& restaurants. View of the lake.
Quiet street in good neighbor-
hood. No pets. No smoking.
Snowbird rates. Call Mike (661)
510-6246
LAKE HAVASU LANDING-
WATERFRONT, steps to the
water. Boat mooring out front,
off-road desert behind house.
3 bed/3 bath, fully furnished w/
linens. Direct TV/DVR, BBQ,
Casino, Grocery/Meat Market,
Launch Ramp, Marina with Boat
House, Gated Community. No
pets/smoking. $350 Dan Cook
(310) 418-1577.
LAKE HAVASU HOME FOR
RENT- 3 BED/2 BATH, Fur-
nished Modern Home, Sleeps 9.
2 Car Garage, Covered Boat
Parking . Laundry, BBQ, TVs,
Cable. Quiet Cul-De-Sac Street.
3 miles to London Bridge,
located near Golf Course. Lake
View. No pets, No Smoking.
Summer/Winter/Snowbird/
Holiday Rates. Cleaning Fee in-
cluded. Call John (323)449-4473
LAKE HAVASU LANDING
RESORT. 3 bedroom, 2 bath,
waterfront house, boat, moor-
ing out front, fully furnished,
laundry, gas BBQ, launch ramp,
gated community, grocery
store, hardware store. No pets,
no smoking. Email Kathy at
scarkj@yahoo.com or call
(760) 858-4470
LARGE LAKE HAVASU HOME
FOR RENT – 5 bedroom, 3
bath, 2900 sqft home with ame-
nities & pool that easily sleeps
14+ people. Centrally located,
1 mile from the lake, close to
downtown shops and restau-
rants. Check out home at
https://www.vrbo.
com/4648549ha
Call Julie 818-268-7906 for spe-
cial firefighter family rates.
LAKE HAVASU LANDING RE-
SORT BEACHFRONT HOME
with boat mooring. Swim, ski
or fish from front yard. 4 bed/2
bath, fully furnished. DirectTV/
DVD/WiFi, pool table, laundry,
BBQ. Gated community with ca-
sino, groceries, marina, launch
ramp and off-road trails. No
pets, no smoking. $350 Bowen/
Garner email:
havasulanding27@gmail.com
LAKE MOHAVE / BULLHEAD
CITY. 4 bedroom, 3 full bathroom,
2200 sq/ft Located in private
community w/ private marina and
launch ramp. Directly across from
the river, backs to large park with
grass. Fully equipped kitchen,
BBQ, Washer/Dryer, TV/DVD. No
cable. No pets, No Smoking. Call
Kevin (805) 279-2430
LAKE NACIMIENTO. Oak
Shores gated community. 3
bedroom, 2 1/2 bath, large loft.
3minute drive to main marina in
Oak Shores. Large flat driveway.
Fully equipped kitchen, BBQ,
washer/dryer, TV/DVD. No
cable. No pets/smoking. $225/
night. $150 cleaning fee. 3 night
minimum. Call Ben (805) 444-
2264.
MAMMOTH - 1 bedroom Sum-
mit condo, sleeps 6. Convenient
underground garage parking. Ja-
cuzzis, gym (pool/tennis in sum-
mertime), shuttle right outside!
Across from Eagle Lodge, Win-
ter $110 per night, Summer $80
per night plus $65 cleaning fee
and 13% tax. All linens included.
Drew or Nancy Oliphant (661)
513-2000 or mammoth241@
aol.com
MAMMOTH CONDO - 2 bdrm,
2 bath, 2 TV’s, phone, garage,
pool, jacuzzi, fully furnished - ex-
ept linens. Near shuttle/chair 15.
Winter $125/night. Weekends
and Holidays $110 midweek.
Summer $95/night. $495/week.
No smoking. No pets. Jim John-
son (818) 992-7564, FS 80C.
MAMMOTH CONDO- SEA-
SONS FOUR RESORT.
Charming and cozy furnished
1 Bedroom sleeps 5. Updated
unit with amenities including
wifi, sauna, jacuzzi, phone,
rec room, 2 flat screens , DVD
players. W/D on site. Shuttle
stop. Walking distance to village.
$120/night + $80 Cleaning fee
Bobby@310-350-5552.
MAMMOTH CONDO Cozy 2
bedrooms, 2 bath. Fully fur-
nished, WIFI, 3 TV’s, pool, spa,
walk to shuttle, Old Mammoth
area. Winter $115, Summer
$90, plus cleaning fee $139 and
14% city tax. Includes linens. No
smoking. Call (310) 540-4648.
MAMMOTH CONDO NEXT TO
THE GONDOLA VILLAGE –
Fully furnished, three bedroom,
two bath with towels and linens,
internet cable TV, pool and
Jacuzzi. Walk to the gondola,
shops, restaurants and ski in on
the new comeback trail. Park-
ing at the front door. 2018/19
RATES: Winter: $275/night.
Summer $175/night. Holidays
$325/night. Cleaning is included.
Mike Whitehouse, Retired,
email: btkwhitey@yahoo.com or
Bruce Galien, Retired, 661-645-
7448, email: luvbaja2@aol.com
MAMMOTH CONDO AT MAM-
MOTH ESTATES, 4BR/3BA,
sleeps 10, fully furnished, 2
TVs, DVDs, WiFi, towels/linens,
fireplace. Full kitchen. Walk to
Gondola Village and shuttle.
Complex has pool, spa, sauna,
laundry. Winter $335/night, Sum-
mer $215/night, plus cleaning.
Includes city bed tax. No pets,
no smoking. Dory Jones (310)
918-0631 or Kelly Corcoran
(310) 619-5355
MAMMOTH CONDO. 2 bed-
room & large loft, 3 full baths,
sleeps 8. 5 minute walk to Can-
yon Lodge. Fully furnished, TVs,
VCR/DVD, pool, spa, rec room,
sauna, linens included. Winter
$175 weekdays, $195-week-
ends/holidays; summer $125,
plus cleaning. No smoking; no
pets. Craig Yoder (909) 948-
3659.
MAMMOTH LAKES - One
bedroom, extremely charming
wildflower condo. Full amenities,
close to shuttle. Antiques, art,
satellite TV, fireplace. Sleeps 4.
Winter $110, Summer $85 plus
cleaning fees. Call Bill Clark
(818) 371-6722
Email: shakesong@aol.com
MAMMOTH SKI & RACQUET:
Studio/loft, 2 bath, king bed,
sleeps 4. Full kitchen, TV, VCR,
DVD. Garage parking. Walk to
Canyon Lodge. Ski back trail.
2 night minimum. Winter $100/
nite, $125 Fri, Sat & Holidays.
Summer $60/nite. Plus $120
cleaning & linens. Jeff & Lisa
Moir (661) 254-5788.
MAMMOTH SKI & RACQUET:
Walk to Canyon Lodge. Studio
loft sleeps 4. Queen beds, full
kitchen, 2 baths, garage parking,
TV, VCR, DVD. Winter Sun-
Thurs $100.nite; Fri & Sat $115/
nite plus cleaning fee $100. Non
smoking complex. Joel Parker,
LAFD retired.
email: cat25sailor@gmail.com
or (213) 399-6534.
MAUI BEACH FRONT CONDO
ON NAPILI BAY - 50’ from
water. Studios and 1 bedroom.
Luxury furnishings + full kitchen.
All the amenities! Maui’s best
snorkeling/beach. All island
activities & Kapalua within 4
minutes. 5-day minimum, from
$150 per night (regularly $310/
night). Call Sherrie or Bill for
info/reservations (805) 530-0007
or email: pmimaui@aol.com
or visit:
www.napilibaymaui.com
MAUI’S MOST BEAUTIFUL
BEACH - Napili Bay. Beautiful
furnished condo that sleeps 4.
Lanai/balcony, full kitchen, king
August 2018 • 59
bed, flat screen TV’s/DVD, AC’s
free WiFi (internet), complimen-
tary maid service, complimen-
tary coffee every morning and
breakfast on Fridays. Special
firefighters’ discount - Best value
in West Maui! Nice pool & BBQ
area - Close to beach!
(800) 336-2185
www.napilivillage.com
Don Sprenger - retired LAFD
(949) 929-0989
PALM DESERT - Gated mini
estate on half acre. Multi-family
friendly. Spacious 4 bedrooms
with game room. Come relax
and enjoy the large pool with
jacuzzi and built-in BBQ. Game
room has a pool table, ping pong
table, pinball machine and bar.
Patio areas with seating for all.
Walk to “El Paseo” dining and
stores. Pet friendly. No smoking.
Email: lilinoecastro@yahoo.
com or text (562) 895-8263.
PALM SPRINGS- 3Bdr/3Ba
Pool home with great back yard
to BBQ. Fully furnished w/WiFi,
Big screen Cable TV and Pool
Table. Pets Ok on gated proper-
ty. Close to Palm Springs Aerial
Tramway,Casino and Down
Town. Call property manager for
DESERT SUNSHINE house and
ask for seasonal pricing.
(800) 215-9880
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 Heav-
enly. Located in Tahoe Paradise.
$115 per night plus cleaning.
Call Shawn or Rose Agnew at
(661) 250-9907 or (661) 476-
6288.
SUNSET RANCH ­PALM
DESERT. 163 acre ranch
private ski lake. Perfect for
Family vacations. Ranch house
accommodates large groups.
Amenities: pool, AC, billards,
TV, fishing, pet friendly. Nearby
golf, casinos, ATV riding. Also,
Premier lodging for Coachella
music festivals. *Seasonal duck
hunting club. See website for
rates and info:
sunsetranchoasis.com
or call Nick Davidson
(424) 237-4121
VACATION
VEHICLES
MOTORHOMES FOR RENT.
Several Class C’s & Class A’s for
rent. Serving family and friends
for over 15 years. LAFD, LASD,
IPD, OXPD, OXFIRE, LACO,
LACITY, LACITY SKI CLUB.
Visit us at www.so-calrv.com
or call 661-297-2398 as for Jeff.
Make money with your mo-
torhomes to offset your payment.
We sub-lease RV’s.
For advertising information,
please contact:
Eric Santiago
(323) 259-5231
eric@lafra.org

Deal direct with authorized Factory Dealers

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

GALPIN FORD HAMER TOYOTA, INC. HONDA OF HOLLYWOOD

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60 • August 2018
1887 1912
Fire Station 5

The original FS 5, better known as the “Big Nickel” was opened in approximately 1887 at 1279 W. Ninth Street near Main St. Since
then, there have been multiple other locations. The current station is located at 8900 Emerson Avenue in Westchester, California.

1950 2006

Photo circa 1962

Picture and caption from 1962 Los Angeles Herald -Examiner, “Like a massive, gleaming, spotlessly clean Seagrave
unit, Alex De Synadinos and his driver Joe Clark, a 14-year veteran, are in “go” condition.” Retired Captain II Alex T. De
Synadinos recently passed away.
August 2018 • 61
 Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association
7470 N Figueroa Street
Los Angeles CA 90041-1725

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Annual
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BBQ

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FA M I L Y F O U N

www.FireItUpBBQ.org

Saturday, Oct 20, 2018 • 12-4pm

Firefighters First Credit Union | 815 Colorado Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90041

The Fire It Up! BBQ Competition is a fundraising

partnership between two nonprofits that

Compete
serve and honor the firefighting community.
for the title of “Best BBQ.” Proceeds will benefit Fire Family Foundation
Reigning champ, LAFD and the African American Firefighter Museum.
Assistant Chief Antoine McKnight is
returning this year to compete!

Attend with your family and friends!

Free admission featuring
live band, DJ, vendors, BBQ tastings,
VIP packages, celebrity judges, and Sponsorship and vendor
activities for kids. opportunities are also available.
Email Kelli at fireitupkelli@gmail.com for more information

Fire Family Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Tax ID #36-4613248. African American Firefighter Museum is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Tax ID #95-4646322. Donations are deductible as permitted by law.