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n
n
y
s Saturday, November 3, 2018
Noon – Four P.M.
s
g Enjoy great food and catch up with old friends.
et
1

This year we honor the

commitment & dedication of

For Hook & Ladder Enduro

7470 N. FIGUEROA STREET, LA 90041 | NO RSVP REQUIRED

 VOL. XCV NOVEMBER 2018 NO. 03

• FEATURES •
View from the Fairway
Colorful outfits and even more colorful characters gather for the
Annual Invitational Golf Tournament to play a little golf, join in some
great camaraderie, and raise funds for the WODDF • .....................06

Editor’s Desk: Lights, Camera, Action

Stories and photos are the lifeblood of the Grapevine. See what we
need you to do to keep it flowing, while keeping everyone safe •...13

Fallen Firefighter’s Memorial Observance

A procession of family, fellow firefighters, and friends of the depart-
ment gather in the backdrop of Pikes Peak to honor the fallen—
past and present • ...........................................................................14

• CONTENTS •
President’s Message • ............................................................................05
Battalion News • ....................................................................................17
Station Fridge • ......................................................................................34
Retired Guys • .......................................................................................35
Department in Action • ........................................................................36
Special Commendation
Captain John Marasco Floats All to Safety • ..........................................41
Circuit Training—Workout in 30 Minutes—The LAFD Way • .................42
Retirement Dinners • ..............................................................................44
High Fidelity Mannequins—The Future of Training is Here • .................45
Memorials • ...........................................................................................46
LAFD Handball—There is a New Commissioner in the House • .................47
Mailbox • ...............................................................................................48
LAFD History
The Bel Air Fire • ....................................................................................51
Minutes of the Board of Trustees • .....................................................54
Classifieds • ...........................................................................................58
Tailboard
Fire Station 9 • .......................................................................................61

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

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

2 • November 2018
 On the cover: Attic Fire - San Fernando - By Mike Meadows

Inset LAFD photo by: Harry Garvin

Hancock Park - Structure Fire

November 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 Diplomat, American
Board of Dermatology Fellow, American Society for Mohs Surgery
SKIN CANCER TREATMENTS NORMALLY COVERED
BY WORK COMP, PPO AND MEDICARE
Dave Wagner • Managing Editor..........................................editor@lafra.org
John Hicks • Associate Editor..............................................jhicks@lafra.org
Eric Santiago • Creative Editor...............................................eric@lafra.org
Display Advertising.................................................(323) 259-5200 ext. 231

• Exposed to the sun for long periods of time at work?

• Have questions about filing your workers’ PSO’s
Amy Bastman, Margaret Stewart, Brian Humphrey
compensation claim?
Workers’ Compensation, QME, AME, PQME, Personal Injury Cases, CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Art Sorrentino, Matt Mickey, Frank Borden, Jim Stiglich, Steve Ruda
Expert Witness Consulting and Medical Legal
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Locations: David Blaire, Greg Doyle, Harry Garvin,
• 28049 Smyth Drive Valencia, CA 91355 Steve Gentry, Juan Guerra, Brian Haimer, Ryan Ling, Rick McClure,
Mike Meadows, Lloyd Payne, Jeff Zimmerman, Yvonne Griffin
• 15477 Ventura Boulevard, Suite 100,
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
LOS ANGELES FIREMEN’S RELIEF ASSOCIATION
• 416 North Bedford Drive, Suite 100,
Beverly Hills, CA 90210 Robert Steinbacher................................................President
Jeff Cawdrey ..................................................Vice-President
• 1801 Solar Drive, Suite 150, Oxnard, CA 93030
Andrew Kuljis ................................Community Affairs Liaison
Contact us today! BOARD OF TRUSTEES
We accept most WC, PPO
and Medicare Insurance Chris Stine Gene Bednarchik Rich Moody
Craig White Henry Gasbarri Rick Godinez
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 • November 2018
N
ovember has always been my favorite month. Tur-
key Day is great, and it just so happens to be my
most-liked holiday. Early in the month I also look
forward to the annual LAFRA Open House. On Saturday,
November 3, 2018, the doors here at LAFRA HQ will be
opened wide to welcome all of our fire friends and family.
Join us and enjoy good food and great company while we
celebrate the work of two amazing individuals that are be-
ing honored this year for their time, talent, and energy con-
tributed over the years while raising hundreds of thousands
of dollars for the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemen’s
Fund. Honorees Craig White and Bruce Galien have hearts
of gold, and their work on the Hook and Ladder Enduro
event has been phenomenal. Thank you, Gentlemen and
congrats!
I am pleased to share exciting fundraising news. The
2018 LAFD Invitational Golf Tournament held at Mountain
Gate Country Club on September 24, 2018, brought in just
under $170,000 for the Widows & Orphans fund. We never
could have done this without the incredible generosity of
our sponsors. I would also like to recognize the hard work
of our vendors, volunteers, and staff that really came to-
gether to make this fun event an amazing success.
This year’s Annual LAFD Fallen Firefighter Memo-
rial Ceremony was held on October 13, 2018, at the Los
Angeles Fire Museum & Fallen Firefighters Memorial in
Hollywood. The 268 names included on the wall represent
every known member who died while at an incident or as a
result of a duty-related cause. This amazing tribute reminds
us of the true sacrifice that was made and the fallen have
earned our respect and gratitude. Diane Vigil and Valerie
Lawrence of LAFRA’s Family Support Group did a great
job at the memorial.
The memorial events I have had the privilege of at-
tending over this past year have brought about a renewed
appreciation for the job of President here at LAFRA. I am
very proud for the opportunity given to me to serve our
members in this capacity. During this time I have visited
with sick and injured firefighters and know firsthand what a
great, unique, and solid community we have created. I also
have visited with the widows of our members, along with
their children, and though I am at a loss of words at these
moments, it is my hope that I bring some level of comfort
by lending an ear or by offering a shoulder to lean on. I see
how these spouses and children sacrifice a great deal, and
I am grateful to be able to refer those in need to our great
chaplains, our Family Support Group, and to the Widows &
Orphans charity.
This has been another eventful year, to say the least,
but an agreement with Pensions will soon be finalized. The
past two years have been a rollercoaster ride of emotions
filled with challenges around every corner, but there has
been no backing down. This organization is stronger than
ever, and I encourage everyone to stay informed, stay alert,
and stay engaged.
The David Moorman Over-The-Line Tournament,
formerly known as the Firemen’s Over-The-Line Tourna-
ment, was held October 30, 2018, at Santa Monica Beach.
This fundraiser was renamed this year in honor of Captain
II David Moorman who never missed a year. A big thanks
to Sean Millett and everyone else who make this annual
event a big success.
Be safe and be kind to each other!
Robert D. “Steintalker” Steinbacher
president@lafra.org
323.259.5200
November 2018 • 5
 On Monday, September
24th, LAFRA hosted the Invi-
tational Golf Tournament for
the WODFF. Despite the traf-
fic winding through the Sepul-
veda pass far below, the large
turnout at the Mountain Gate
Country Club indicated that
this event was indeed a suc-
cess for a very worthy cause.
Congratulations to everyone
who helped set this tourna-
ment up and to everyone who
participated.
A partial list of the participants,
both players and volunteers, includes
Steve Schultz, Steve “The Godfather”
Ruda, Kelly Faulkner, Graham Everett,
Glenn Prine, Doak Walker, John Keys
(along with his bagpipes), and finally Lar-
ry “I used to work here” Hoerner.
6 • November 2018
This is not going to be an article about the
finer points of the game of golf. You will
not find a list of winner or losers. You will,
however, find several of my observations
about this game and its participants. It will
be written in the style of the finest man to
ever write a column for The Grapevine,
the late Tony “Never let the facts get in the
way of a good story” DiDomenico. Virtu-
ally none of you on the job today have ever
heard of Tony. That’s a shame because he
was one of the most gifted writers to have
ever appeared on these pages.
The other person who was also an
inspiration for this article is a man who
will only be known as the late “Factual”
Frank. I will not use his last name because
I don’t want to besmirch him or his family.
Some of his stories also bordered on “the
never let facts get in the way of a good
story” style of storytelling.
There have been many stories and
jokes over the years about the clothing
worn by golfers. I personally believe that
most, if not all, of the stories are true. Or at
least they are based on fact, similar to the
Easter Bunny or Santa Claus.
 Then there is Jesse Franco, in all
his sartorial splendor, and he is real. If
you have never seen a grown man wear-
ing, on different occasions, a lime green
tux or a purple tux, you have missed some-
thing that closely resembles the Northern
Lights. Where Jesse buys clothes like that
still remains a mystery.
I will be the first to admit that I
have never seen either the Easter Bunny
or Santa Claus but I can’t swear that I have
never seen flying saucers and little green
men. However, that was only after drink-
ing a large bottle of Akadama wine in
Japan many years ago.
But I digress . . .
Jesse, however, is absolutely real.
There are many documented sightings of
him and his Technicolor suits.
After attending the golf tourna-
ment, and seeing them with my own eyes,
it’s very possible that at least some of
those aforementioned things are, in fact,
real. There is photographic evidence of
this in two of the photographs accompany-
ing this article.
Those photographs depict two guys
that some of you work with: Mike “Chub-
by Fowler” Sailhamer (FS 21), and Frank
Aguirre (FS 89). To say they would stand
out in a crowd is like saying if you stand
in front of a tsunami you may experience
moisture. There is nothing wrong with
their clothing, but they are certainly un-
usual — and more than somewhat color-
ful.
Something that was one of the
most unusual things ever seen at a sport-
ing event was what I could call “The Beer
Line.” As seen in another photograph on
these pages, there are two lines of beer
cans with five cases of beer at the begin-
ning of each line. The golfers took turns
putting a ball between these two lines.
After asking several participants what the
object of this was, not one of them seemed
to know. Whatever it was, someone should
have one of those cases of beer just for do-
ing this in public. Maybe they already had
a case and that’s why they didn’t know.
Early in this article, Larry Ho-
erner’s name came up. For those of you
November 2018 • 7
 who don’t know Larry, he is unusual for
many reasons but mainly because he put
in twenty years on the LAFD and then re-
tired, and then put in 20 more years on the
LACOFD. Now, there is a rumor that he
wants to come back to the LAFD. Good
luck, Larry!
For those of you who are history
buffs, look up a video of the late Robin
Williams’ explanation of the history of
this fine game of golf. But be warned, it is
NSFW and it’s 4:48 long. It’s best to view
this on your home computer. It is one of
the funniest skits by Mr. Williams I have
seen. You have been warned.
As always, this event is open to ev-
eryone. Whether you’re retired, active, or
someone who just enjoys swinging a club,
you should come on out and enjoy the ex-
perience. So, remember to mark this event
on your calendar for next year and join in
on the fun and camaraderie.

8 • November 2018
 TOURNAMENT
TEAM RESULTS
• 4th Place – Mike Mullen,
Tony Gamboa, Jaime Ramirez,
Peter Pak
• 3rd Place – Kevin Wright, Jose
Cronenbold, Paul Schori,
Paul Croghan
• 2nd Place – Darren Ashby,
Joe Edwards, Jeff Cawdrey,
Russ Garrett
• 1st Place – Roger Camunas,
Kelly Faulkner, Kevin Rennie,
Ramon Vance
Closet to the Pin
Lake 3 – Alex Nikolakopulos, 7” 7”
Lake 6 – Alex Greek, 6’ 8”
Lake 8 – Randy Judd, 6’ 10”
North 2 – Greg Paulsen, 1’ 9”
North 7 – Kevin Wright, 18”
Longest Drive
North 9/Women – Jill Goff
North 9/Men – Peter Pak
Putting Contest
Joe Luna
Hustle Hole
Gold Lee’s group - 16.72 seconds
November 2018 • 9
 GOLF BALL DROP
WINNERS
• 4th place: Echo Show by
Amazon - Howard Kaplan #547
• 3rd Place: Resort Stay
Charlie Arnado #593
• 2nd Place: HDTV
Matt Morente #2312
• Grand Prize: $2500
Jerry Hutchinson #776

Tim Larson sold three

of the winning tickets

Shirt Sponsors

•Kevin Wright of Morgan Stanley

•Beacon Pointe Advisors, LLC
•SouthWest Value Partners

10 • November 2018
 Greater Alarm Sponsors
•Anthem Blue Cross
•Cohen & Steers Capital Management
•Dr. Kenneth Sabbag, M.D.
and Congress Orthopaedic Associates
•Fiduciary Management, Inc.
•Kaiser Permanente
•Chicago Equity Partners, LLC
First Alarm Sponsors
•Engaged Capital, LLC
•International Value Advisors, LLC (IVA)
•Galloway Asset Management
•Cozen O’Connor
•MIG Capital
•MCL Health Management, Inc
•Silvercrest Asset Management
•Straussner Sherman
•UBS Financial Services, Inc
•Timothy C. Reynolds, M.D., A Medical Corp.
•Principal Global Investors
•Edward O’Neill, M.D.
Team Photo Sponsors
•Firefighters First Credit Union
•Alexander T. Latteri, M.D.
Reception Sponsors
•Mitchel Silverman, M.D.
•Jeffrey Hirsch, M.D.
•Robert F. Meth, M.D., A Medical Coorporation
•Trian Fund Management, L.P.
•Lazaro V. Alonso, A Medical Group
•Edwin Haronian M.D. Inc
Individual Sponsors
•Oakbrook Investments, LLC
•Lazard Asset Management Co.
Tee Sign Sponsors
•COR Medical Group, Inc.
•Samer Alati / Miracle Mile Medical Center
•Los Angeles Police Revolver & Athletic Club, Inc.
•Portfolio Advisors, LLC
•St. James, Inc.
•Timothy C. Reynolds, M.D.,
A Medical Corporation
•VSP
•Marc Meth, M.D. Century City Allergy
•Arnold Gilberg, M.D., M.D., Ph.D. AME /
QME in Psychiatry
•Jonathan C. Green, M.D., Inc.
•LAFD Sertoma Club
•US BANK
Sponsors
•City National Bank
•US BANK
•Chester Hasday, M.D.
•Robert Davidow
•Laura Wertheimer Hatch, M.D., Inc.
•Mayesh Wholesale Florist
•Stuart Fischer, M.D.
•Edward Biling
•Dr. Franklin Kase, Burbank Podiatry
Golf Ball Drop Sponsor
•Firefighters First Credit Union
November 2018 • 11
Paid Advertisement

Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association Medical Plan may cover this examination.
12 • November 2018 Contact your plan provider to verify.
 Lights, camera, act….WAIT! Can you
first take a minute to put on the proper safety
equipment so I can take a picture? I know, why
should I have to ask for what should be second
nature in our profession. As a rookie—oops,
I’m sorry, I mean probationary firefighter—we
are taught over and over again, safety, safety,
safety! The first line of that defense should
be our provided protection equipment (PPE)
issued to every firefighter in the field. Brush
jackets and web gear for grass/brush fires;
turn-out coats for structure fires and physical
rescues; appropriate use of gloves, whether it
be firefighting gloves for fire incidents or la-
tex gloves for EMS related incidents; safety
glasses for eye protection; and the list goes on
and on. Not only is this equipment provided for
your safety, it is there to protect the city from
having to pay for unnecessary medical ex-
penses if you do get hurt because you weren’t
following Department policy and wearing the
proper protective gear.
The other day I was having a conversa-
tion with one of our best contributing photog-
raphers. He was joking that he was mad that he
couldn’t take a picture of a particular individ-
ual during an auto fire because the person was
not in proper PPE’s. Though we make light of
it, this and other issues have become a real con-
cern for this magazine and the department. We
are in the business of attempting to present the
best possible stories, with accompanying pho-
tos; however, our first concern is your safety.
We are also aware of the ramifications of pub-
lishing pictures that display members violating
department policy, this includes publishing
pictures taken by members while on duty and
involved in an emergency operation. This dan-
gerous action is against department policy and
we do our best not to publish such photos when
aware of such facts. Although we have not
heard of anyone receiving formal disciplinary
action due to a picture displayed in this maga-
zine, I’m sure there has been one or two mem-
bers who have received a verbal warning over
the years. In fairness to the department, some
issues need to be to addressed to reinforce the
importance of safety and prevent future harm
to all those involved. Personally, I would rather
be made aware of an error in judgement than
be seriously hurt or worse.
Beyond what the public believes, fire-
fighters are only human. We make mistakes.
As a new associate editor for this magazine, I
have made mistakes. Back in the March edi-
tion, the cover depicts a lone captain, not wear-
ing his breathing apparatus, on a roof with
heavy smoke behind him. The way the picture
was presented, it appeared he was right in the
thick of things while not wearing proper PPE’s.
This was not the case. The photo was cropped
to fit on the cover; however, the original uned-
ited version clearly showed the captain doing
his job but on an entirely unrelated roof and not
in need of his breathing apparatus. Although I
am not sure if the captain was spoken to, I was,
by the Fire Chief. My bad. Cap, please accept
my apology for any inconvenience this unin-
tentional mistake may have caused you.
The Grapevine is an institution. I have
enjoyed many years of reading its stories and
looking at the photos inside. Now that I am a
part of the magazine, it is my hope that this
will remain the same for generations to come.
Are we the same magazine we were 20
years ago? No! Like all media, we have had to
change with the times, and I believe most of
the change has been for the better. One of the
areas in need of help though is Battalion News.
We still have the great photographs provided
by our talented team of contributing photog-
raphers; however, the staff of battalion writ-
ers has disappeared. Some have retired, while
others have lost their desire to write due to the
perceived repercussions of what they have to
say. Even I have to admit some of the stories
presented in past Battalion News articles were
brutal, but the truth sometimes is. It was also
filled with stories of camaraderie and just plain
hilarious antics. For some of you who are not
old enough to remember the old Battalion
News, read L.A. County Straight Stream, and
you will see what I’m talking about. We live in
a generation where people are sensitive—I get
it. But, maybe they are just a little too sensi-
tive—but, who am I to say. I believe Battalion
News can exist in this kinder, gentler environ-
ment that we now work in. We just need to
learn to tell it in a way that pokes, not stab.
If you are interested in getting your
battalion news out to the world but not sure on
how to do it, contact the Grapevine staff and
we can help. Remember, this is your magazine.
We are here to give you the best content possi-
ble, but we can’t do it alone. We need you to do
your part by taking a moment to double check
that you are wearing your proper PPE’s and
then, when you have a moment, write of your
heroic tales or comical escapades, so that we
can share your story. In this way you can stay
safe, and we get the chance to read the fantastic
stories written by you, alongside the great pic-
tures taken by our contributing photographers.
By doing what we are trained to do, we both
win!
November 2018 • 13
 On September 13th, the
names of David Moorman
and Kelly Wong were added
to the Wall at the IAFF Fallen
Firefighter Memorial. Relief
Association Trustees, along
with the LAFRA Family Sup-
port Group traveled with Amy
Moorman and Danielle Wong
and their family and friends to
Colorado Springs. They were
joined there by more of the
LAFD contingent: UFLAC,
the Fire Hogs, and more of our
own firefighters.
14 • November 2018
This event is more than a one-day af-
fair. It kicked off with a dinner on Thursday
evening at the Hotel Eleganté. The “Meatball
Dinner” is hosted by Rose, whose son was a
FDNY firefighter killed on 9/11. In 2002, Rose
began a tradition where she personally made,
by hand, a meatball for every person attending
the memorial dinner. She wanted something
where everyone traveling from far away could
sit down to dinner together as a family. But,
unfortunately this was the last time that Rose
will host the dinner. We will miss Rose’s warm,
maternal smile, but hopefully the tradition will
be carried on by someone new.
Thursday is also the first opportunity to
visit the Memorial at night. All lit up, the Wall
at night is something very special to see. Amy
and Danielle both had private time to spend
with their loved ones there.
On Friday evening, there has been a
long tradition of closing off the downtown
streets as the Pipes and Drums Band takes over.
The families gather for dinner at a downtown
restaurant and the Pipes and Drum parade spills
into the restaurant for a special performance.
A procession on a very warm Saturday
morning wound through the town and poured
into Memorial Park, with a beautiful view of
Pikes Peak setting the backdrop. Thousands
lined the streets and then jammed the park,
while more than 1,200 honor guard members
from across the country marched in the proces-
sion. Even the LAFD Fire Hogs participated in
the procession, riding their bikes all the way
from LA.
In a very moving ceremony, 271 fire-
fighter’s names were read out. Of those, 19
died of illnesses associated with the aftermath
of the 9/11 attack when firefighters were called
upon to dig through the toxic rubble at ground
zero. At the conclusion of the ceremony, family
and colleagues had an opportunity to approach
the Wall to pay their respects on this very hal-
low ground.
We were honored that Jan Graff (wid-
ow of Jay Graff) and Karen Prosser (widow
of Darrayle Prosser) were able to attend this
year’s Memorial along with many LAFD fire-
fighters. The entire Memorial event is a stirring
and touching experience that you will not soon
forget. Every firefighter should attend at least
once in their life.
“The IAFF will ensure that the ceremo-
ny remains an uplifting one for the families,
friends, and loved ones, and that it celebrates
the lives, heroism, and accomplishments of our
union’s bravest of the brave,” says a post on the
website for the Colorado Springs Professional
Firefighters, IAFF Local 5.

November 2018 • 15
 Saturday, March 23, 2019
Registration fees will be paid for the first 20 to sign up by Sept. 30!

Run, walk or stroll in memory of a fallen firefighter or in

tribute to a special firefighter family. The 5K is open to
participants of all ages and abilities.

Come enjoy beautiful views of Los Angeles as you travel through

iconic Elysian Park before a rewarding finish, set against the
backdrop of world famous Dodger Stadium. Then top it all off
with some delicious dishes from LA’s best food trucks!

Other ways to participate include:

SPONSOR

VIRTUAL
RUN

THE LA MARATHON or
CHARITY CHALLENGE A RUNNER BE A VIRTUAL RUNNER
Sunday, March 24, 2019 & FUNDRAISE

for information and registration visit

givetoahero.org/marathon
All proceeds benefit the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemenʼs Fund, a 111-year-old non-profit 501(c)(3) dedicated to helping our LAFD families in times of crisis

16 • November 2018
 Scott Hessing promoted to Engineer at 14-A Deputy Chief Fligiel with Joe Magana who promoted to Captain I at FS 4

9/11/18. E-25 handled yet another

09/19/18. It took 150 firefighters two hours to fully extinguish heavy deliberately set fire in their first-in.
flames in a 80’ x 100’ industrial building. Photo by Mike Meadows Photo by Adam VanGerpen

November 2018 • 17
 Paid Advertisement:

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18 • November 2018

Greetings to all the Sinners and Saints
of Battalion 2 and then some. I know, I know,
you are asking yourself… where has he been?
Well, after all the details have calmed down, all
my failed attempts at promotional exams, I’m
back. I was sure hoping the return of a Battal-
ion 2 writer would inspire others to jump on
board. As I work SOD, trades, and occasional
10th member details around the battalion, I get
the scoop on things by just listening in. You’d
be surprised how much you can learn by pre-
tending to sleep when “The Bachelor” is on.
First off I’d like to pay my respects to
one of the best Grapevine writers ever . . The
Snake (Pink Python) who once called home in
Battalions 1 and 6. The best ever. Find some
old Grapevines from the 70’s and 80’s and
you’ll see.
Now, I only go by what I see AND
hear from you all. Even when you think I’m
not paying attention. So what I heard from re-
liable sources is that everyone’s hero over at
1’s, Tommy Miller, has had trouble keeping his
balance on a couple hillsides at some recent
brush and grass fires, most recently at Griffith
Park. I don’t know much more than that, but
you might want to inquire next time you see
someone from 1’s. But the best part is now that
1’s is a full Task Force again, Tom will have
less time in the box. I’ve worked a couple days
with him, always a fun day . . . no really!
And I hear now that there is a brand
spanking new chock block that is being tried
out over at 55’s. The real neat thing about the
new chock block is that it is bright yellow, real-
ly hard to miss day or night, even at the first run
of the morning. For more information inquire
with the “A” shift chauffer at 55 A. Maybe he
should not have been talking, driving and try-
ing to fly his drone at the same time!!!! Speak-
ing of 55 A, so long and happy trails to Capt.
Lucas who is off to greener pastures at 79’s and
welcome to Capt. Rojas who is inching closer
to home from Battalion 4.
Now here is one that just lit up my
brand spanking new iPhone 10 just today. Over
at 16’s a number of the members assigned are
gearing up to run down their clocks and ap-
proach the end of their drop period. But what
I was told by reliable sources is one of the old
Donated dumbbells at 16’s
timers that has been at 16’s almost the longest,
“donated” a set of dumbbells and racks for the
guys to use during their strenuous wellness
program. And this was over 20 years ago. But
now, that he is retiring, he made mention to the
“guys” that he would be collecting 400 bucks
upon leaving or he’d take ‘em away. Of course,
the guys at 16’s said that “hey wait a minute,
we can buy a whole new set for 400 bucks!”
It appears that our retiree has a Fire Station to
the south willing to cough up the dough for this
underused set of dumbbells that were donated
back in 1977. Take a look at attached picture,
gone. I guess the rumor is true, the more senior-
ity we get, it kinda tightens us up a bit? Right?
OK, now that I approach the end of
my return article, I have to retract something I
wrote about last year, where I thought that there
was a new Book 30 rule that the 800 series RA
should always take the spot right in front of
the fire. Well, despite my search high and low,
through study programs for Engineer, A/O,
Inspector, and Captain. I couldn’t find it. But,
based on the pictures in this issue of the Grape-
vine of recent Battalion 2 fires, not one 800 RA
took the front spot. I was wrong…. OK.
That’s it for this month, stay safe, look
out for each other, we are all in this together.
Send your Anonymous Grapevine Reports
(AGR’s) to degum-71360@mypacks.net.
See you soon, Capt. Jeffery T. Spaulding
FS 44, MySafeLA and command staff canvas
in Cypress Park after a fatality fire.
November 2018 • 19
20 • November 2018
 Wade Tapsfield promoted to Apparatus Operator at 50-B Javier Honles promoted to Apparatus Operator at 50-C

9/13/18. It took 50 FF’s 25 mins to extinguish a vacant On 09/17/18. Probationary Firefighter Jackson gets a crack
one-story home in the 3400 blk of N. Figueroa St. at the big one in Glassell Park. Photo by Peter Sanders

November 2018 • 21
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22 • November 2018
Vince Martinez promoted to Engineer at 1-C Mario Rodriguez promoted to Engineer at 1-A

62’s and 63’s

November 2018 • 23
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24 • November 2018
 A large SFD in Brentwood on 9/14/18. Photo by John Conkle SFD in 63’s district in September

FF Robert Perea’s daughter Ella shows her station spirit

Paid Advertisement:

November 2018 • 25
 FF Krista Cona, FF Christopher Elguea, FF Adrian Carballo and
LAPD Hollywood are all in for Breast Cancer Awareness month.

Fire boat 2 proudly watches over the Battleship U.S.S Iowa during
Fleet Week in the City of Angels. Photo by Alex Gillman

26 • November 2018
 8/30/18. It took 91 Firefighters less than 45 mins to extinguish flames in a one-
story row of businesses in the 2000 block of Chavez Ave. Photo by Harry Garvin

Engineer Andrew Schmad (FS 20) and wife Christa welcomed their 3rd daughter,
Ella Diane, on 9/16/18. She weighed 8 lb 10 oz and was 20 inches long.

On 9/17/18, this structure fire was knocked down in just 16 minutes

at 328 N Occidental Bl. Westlake District. LAFD Photo by Harry Garvin

Nick Riddall promoted to Captain I at Fire Station 6-C

November 2018 • 27
 Engine 24 works above the 210 freeway
on 9/6/18. Photo by David DeMulle’

98’s handles structure protection near Hansen An auto parts yard in Sun Valley on
Dam on 8/31/18. Photo by David DeMulle’ 9/18/18. Photo by Steve Gentry

A well involved SFD on 9/14/18 in Sunland.

Photo by Kyle Andrusenki

28 • November 2018
 Batt 13 companies converge at 1826 W 74th St
on 9/21/18. LAFD Photo by Justin Johnson

Unified Command at 4407 Staunton Ave 09-20-18. FF’s confine flames to a well-involved, one-story
on 9/20/18. Photo by Yvonne Griffin home at 4161 S Wall St. Photo by Yvonne Griffin

November 2018 • 29
 Flames were contained to a single unit in Valley
Village on 9/23/18. Photo by Kelly Seidel

9/7/18. FF’s from station 60 battle an auto on the 9/14/18. Seems as if someone needs a little more prac-
170 fwy near Victory Blvd. Photo by Mike Meadows tice driving in Battalion 14’s area. Photo by Mike Meadows

30 • November 2018
09/16/18. TF 87 works to shut down a sheared hydrant Brush fire in Chatsworth along Santa
after it was struck by auto. Photo by Rick McClure Susana Pass Rd. Photo by Rick McClure

Engine 93 assists Crew 3 in cutting line at the Mahogany

Fire in Tujunga on 9/18/18. Photo by David DeMulle’

November 2018 • 31
 On 9/12/18, Fire Chief Ralph Terrazas & the LAFD Honor Guard joined City dignitaries
to honor those affected by the deadly 2008 Metrolink train collision.

Jim Dolan received the CSFA’s Tom Garner Member of the Year Award

32 • November 2018
 The Fire Hogs remember and celebrate at their 2018 Hogs Breath BBQ

What Is The...
Extinguisher Fund?
The brain child of Ted Bailie, retired from the LAFD and LAFRA, your station’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 firehouse. 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 Relief 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 fami-
lies 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.

November 2018 • 33
34 • November 2018
 Dale Dickson was kind enough to send in this sub-
mission. Please note that Dale has been retired since 1991,
and may not be aware of many of the Department policy
changes over the last three decades.
Some of the best jokers in the world are firefighters.
Everybody loves a firefighter, so the story goes, but do they
know what really goes on in the firefighters’ private world
once the powerful rigs are backed into quarters and the ap-
paratus doors are closed?
Firefighters are very rarely invited to parties or happy
events while on duty. Every call can subject them to ex-
treme physical hardship and exertion which would strain
to the limit the reserves of many men and women. The
firefighters accept this as routine, and they cope with the
disasters and heartbreaking occurrences they encounter in
many ways, ways which are often not visible to the civilian
population.
Now to the story:
In many firehouses there is what is called a plumbing
alley. This is a narrow closet-like room extending behind
the plumbing fixtures, such as sinks and toilets. Most of
the plumbing repairs can be expedited in the closet, for all
the piping and valves are exposed and a plumber can easily
work on them. Well, some ingenious person discovered a
toilet can be flushed from the plumbing alley by inserting a
stiff wire, like a nail, into an opening in a valve and pushing
it up, like throwing a light switch.
In this particular firehouse adjacent to Bel Aire, the
men hooked up an imaginative array of wires, running them
from the valve in the plumbing alley behind the captain’s
toilet up through the ceiling and down into a locker in the
men’s locker room. Whenever someone pulled on the end
of the wire, the toilet flushed. This was often affected when
the captain was on the throne, surprising him. Naturally,
none of the crew on any of the shifts divulged this secret
to the officers, and the officers hadn’t a clue to what was
causing the mystery flushing. Whenever a man got up in the
middle of the night for any reason, he would pull the wire
and the captain’s toilet would mysteriously flush.
It was strange that none of the captains could figure
out what was happening, or that they didn’t inspect the
plumbing alley. Captains are supposed to be the smartest
men in the firehouse, but some of them aren’t aware of what
is happening in their house. They kept telling their crews
about the mystery toilet, and naturally the men didn’t know
what could be causing it.
Finally, one day one of the captains had had enough
of the flushing and placed a call to have a city plumber
come out to fix the problem. The men found out about this,
and met the plumber as he drove his truck into the park-
ing lot. They told him about the gag they were pulling on
the captains, and he was more than happy to go along with
them. Most of the city workers who had any dealings with
the fire department liked to be included in any shenanigans
these likeable men were pulling off.
The plumber went into the captain’s office and was
told what the problem was. He then went into the plumbing
alley, banged away on some pipes and fiddled around for a
few minutes more . . . then told the captain his problem was
solved. “The toilet will not be flushing mysteriously any
more.”
Then the plumber had a casual cup of coffee with the
men, and soon was driving out of the yard and down the
street. And then the captain’s toilet flushed!
November 2018 • 35
STRUCTURE FIRE
Boyle Heights
Photos by Matt Hartman and Mike Meadows

36 • November 2018
 On September 19, 2018, 150 firefighters took just two hours to fully extinguish
heavy flames within a 80’ x 100’ one-story industrial building. Three firefighters sus-
tained non-life threatening injuries with no reported civilian injuries.

November 2018 • 37
STRUCTURE FIRE
Glassell Park
Photos by Steve Gentry, Mike Meadows, David Barrett,
and LAFD Photos by Peter Sanders

38 • November 2018
 Deeply rooted flames, downed high voltage power lines and building walls that began to fail were among the
many challenges faced by the 150 firefighters who labored for more than seven hours to fully extinguish a stubborn
non-injury blaze within a party supply company in the 3500 block of North San Fernando Road on September 17, 2018.

November 2018 • 39
 2018 FIREFIGHTER OF THE YEAR

On December 5, 2018, the Los Angeles City Firefighter’s Association will vote on this year’s “2018 Firefighter of the Year”. This honor
of distinction and recognition is given to a member of any rank, who, not by any single act, has distinguished him/herself as one of
outstanding character, dedication, and loyalty to the Department, the Fire Service, and to the citizens of the community.

To be eligible for consideration, nominees must have been an active LAFD member for at least one day during the nominating year, and
a member of the California State Firefighter’s Association/Los Angeles City Firefighters Association.

Candidates will be judged on an overall career and life that exemplifies the best qualities of those who are honored to be part of the fire
service.

If you know of such a person, and would like to nominate him/her for this prestigious award, submit your application NO LATER than
December 3, 2018, to any one of the nominating committee members listed below. The nomination must include the nominees name,
rank, assignment and a statement of why the member should receive the award. Photos and other documentation may also be submitted.

Please attend the Los Angeles City Firefighter’s Association meeting on December 5, 2018 at 0830 Hours, Fire Station 59 Training
classroom, 11505 Olympic Blvd. and present your nomination IN PERSON. All Los Angeles City Firefighter’s Association members
are welcome, and encouraged to attend the meeting and presentations, and to show support for the individuals being nominated.

Presentations may be subject to time limits depending on the number of nominations received in order to provide fairness to all nomi-
nees. These time limits will be announced prior to the start of the December 5, 2018 membership meeting and will be strictly enforced.
The nominee cannot be present during the meeting.

The election will be held in closed executive session following the nominations, and only members of the Los Angeles City Firefighter’s
Association Board will vote.

Reminder, applications must be submitted no later than December 3, 2018.

Following personal notification of the winner by the Vice President, public announcement will be made by Department teletype.

2018 FIREFIGHTER OF THE YEAR NOMINATING COMMITTEE

Robert Cordobes, (310) 977-5041
James S. Dolan, (562) 400-1298
Brian Geiger, (562) 833-2796

2018 FIREFIGHTER OF THE YEAR

NOMINATION FORM

DATE:____________________

NOMINEE’S NAME: ____________________________________________________________________________

ASSIGNMENT:______________________ PHONE:__________________________________ RANK:___________________

NARRATIVE OF WHY THE NOMINEE SHOULD BE CONSIDERED FOR THE 2018 FIREFIGHTER OF THE YEAR.
(Include Department, Community, Church, etc. work) (Attachments are encouraged)

NOMINATOR’S NAME:_______________________________________ PHONE:____________________________________

40 • November 2018
 According to the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC), every day, about 10 people
die from unintentional drowning.
Of these, two are children aged
14 or under. Drowning ranks fifth
among the leading cause of unin-
tentional injury death in the United
States.
On June 11, 2016, Captain John
Marasco was tubing down the Salt
River near Phoenix, with his wife
and friends. Part of a flotilla travel-
ing together, the group had floated
downriver for several hours and
was approaching their intended landing area where they had planned
to catch a bus that would return them to their starting point. Without
warning, the noise of the flowing river added screams for help. Captain
Marasco looked over his shoulder and witness one of his friends from his
party scrambling across the water to help a five-year-old boy who had
fallen out of his innertube. The boy, who did not belong to their party,
was not the only one in trouble. Marasco spied three other people also
in trouble. It had appeared that a different group of people’s innertubes,
that had been tied together, had flipped over somehow, spilling the young
boy, along with two teenaged girls and their mother into the swift mov-
ing water.
Without hesitation, Captain Marasco slipped from his own in-
nertube and began swimming in the direction of the people to lend his
assistance. Reaching the group first, he knew what he needed to do. He
approached the mother first; who, in her panic, was clinging to her young
son and pulling him under. Marasco caught hold of her and rolled her
head out of the water. Suddenly, her whole body went limp. Her son was
also panicking, but Marasco was able to push him onto a nearby inner-
tube, gripping him and his mother and trying to keep all three all afloat at
the same time.
While attempting to keep the woman’s head above water, and
control the boy as well, he called for the two girls to hold their inner-
tubes tightly and, with occasional kicks and river-bottom footing, was
able to propel himself and the family slowly across the river and into
waist-deep water. With the help of his friends, Marasco then pulled them
all onshore. At that point, Marasco identified himself as a firefighter/
paramedic. He examined all four family members, who were grateful but
clearly in shock but recovering. In speaking with them, he learned that
the woman and her children had little or no swimming experience and
hadn’t realized how dangerous the river could be.
Because of his quick thinking and fast action, as well as his skills
in water rescue, Captain Marasco very likely saved the lives of several
members of one family, and successfully kept tragedy from marring a
summer day’s activity. Because of his valiant actions, The Los Angeles
Fire Department Foundation awarded him a Special Commendation.
November 2018 • 41
 “We train as if our life depends on it, so why
wouldn’t we exercise the same?” Captain II Paul
Ybarra explains to me as we sit in the front of-
fice of Fire Station 12. In a confident, but humble
manner, Ybarra talked about his ambitious plan
to change not only how firefighters exercise in
the station, but also the duration in which they
do it.
When Captain Ybarra first transferred
to 12’s, he noticed that his crew’s exercise pro-
gram varied from member to member. Some
firefighters loved lifting weights while oth-
ers worked more on the cardio components.
This concerned him because his experience
had taught him that the job of a firefighter is
more than just about one’s strength or cardio
conditioning, but instead a balance of the two,
each exercise equally important to do the job
safely and efficiently. Nowhere was this more
apparent than when he observed probation-
ary firefighters preparing for the phase test-
ing portion of their training. There he wit-
nessed that some of the recruits quickly
fatigued and how that level of con-
ditioning could translate into poor
performance during the actual
phase test.
As a Captain, he also
knew he was in a position
to change that by drawing
from his experiences and
implement, at the sta-
tion level, the lessons
he has learned over
the years—and that
is exactly what he
did. With the help of
his apparatus opera-
tor, Robert Stoffel,
previously a cap-
tain in the U.S.
Army and a
West Point
42 • November 2018
graduate, the two began developing a conditioning program
that was not only creative but more importantly, designed
and geared toward what a firefighter actually does
while on scene of an emergency. With that, “circuit
training” was born—LAFD style.
With a combination of strength building and
endurance training, circuit training takes real-life
scenarios and turns them into conditioning exer-
cises. Ladders, hoses, and weights are used, along
with the wearing of the breathing apparatus for
some of the training evolutions. A lot of ingenuity
went into the development of the program. Ybarra
and Stoffel were able to incorporate the actual
equipment used by firefighters into their exercises
to make the experience more realistic.
The program starts out simple enough, with
the crew gathering as a group for a quick stretch-
ing session. This is followed by a few short laps
around the station to get the blood flowing. With
the group warmed up and ready to work, the crew
then separate into their individual exercise sta-
tions that are spread out around the station. This
is one of the time-saving factors of the pro-
gram. By having multiple stations, the
individual firefighter can do his or her
exercise independently of one an-
other without impacting the time
of others. Once that particular
evolution is done, the crew
simply rotates to the next sta-
tion. Ybarra explains that by
incorporating the multiple
stations, the usual two-hours
of exercise can be cut down
to a challenging, but man-
ageable, 30 minutes.
Ground ladders
are used, some with
added weight to
simulate larger
ladder. Hose
lines were
magically
transformed into life size people—both male and female—for the to improve one’s physical performance, the endurance will soon
purpose of a dragging exercise. A halyard pull is incorporated follow, allowing you to be more confident of the fire ground—all
and so is a stair-stepping station that is sure to get one ready just in just about 30 minutes a day.
in case they are called to a high-rise incident. The most challeng-
ing of the program, however, at least to this observer, was the use 1. Stretching and Warm-Up
of a sledge hammer and a heavy tire. There, the participant uses 2. Laps Around the Station (2X)
the sledge in an axe-swinging motion, striking the tire and mov-
3. Step Test (10 evolutions with B/A)
ing the heavy object a short distance across the yard. I got winded
just watching. To say the least, the program is challenging to the 4. 16-ft Ladder Raise (1 time)
beginner, but Captain Ybarra explains, “with a little time and ef- 5. Simulated 35-ft Ladder Raise (1-3 times)
fort on the part of the individual, even the seemingly weakest 6. Dumbbell Carry (simulates carry saws and tools)
member of a crew can quickly progress to one of the strongest.” 7. Halyard Pull
Another benefit of the program is its ability to adapt to the needs
8. Hose Drag
of the individual. If one member finds themselves lacking in one
area, they can simply rotate back into that area of exercise until 9. Sledge Hammer/Tire
their performance improves. 10. Hose-Pack Carry
Now, as with every exercise program, there will be one 11. Laps around the station—Again (2x)
or two evolutions that some individuals will struggle, at least at
12. Repeat as Conditioning Increases and Time Permits
first. However, with a little enthusiasm and the fortitude to want

November 2018 • 43
 ANDREW P. FOX, Assistant Chief,
CMD 42-A

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LAFD Retired

44 • November 2018
 In the age of technology, how is the
Los Angeles City Fire Department staying rel-
evant? Introducing High Fidelity Mannequins,
the latest purchase by the EMS Training Unit
to assist in the training of our members in the
latest advancements in pre-hospital care medi-
cine. We currently respond to more than 1,400
calls each day. Approximately 85 percent of
our call volume involves a medical compo-
nent of some type. Utilizing the most current
technology, our members have an opportunity
to respond to a more realistic scenario and ad-
minister the type of care needed in a controlled
training environment.
In the past a member recertifying their
EMT license had to imagine a scenario rather
than actually seeing it displayed right in front
of them. With the deployment of technologi-
cally advanced patient simulators, these new
mannequins are capable of exhibiting real-life
emergencies, such as a swollen tongue that
you might encounter during an anaphylaxis
response, absent breath sounds unilaterally or
bilaterally, pupillary changes, and numerous
other signs that we look for in order to provide
the best care possible.
With the use of large monitors, our
EMT instructors are able to select a chief com-
plaint from a
large menu of options and then program in the
vital signs, ECG rhythms, and a multitude of
other life-threatening complaints. In the near
future each of our four EMS educators will
have one of these high-tech machines to deliver
on-the-spot training within each bureau of the
department.
Along with the adult mannequins, we
also have infant, pediatric, and birthing man-
nequins. All of these training aids will allow
our staff to create real-life scenarios that will
only serve to hone our assessment and treat-
ment skills. Coming just in front of the latest
EMS Update 2018, these mannequins will also
assist our members in becoming more comfort-
able with the “provider impression” selection
as well as how we apply it.
With the current model for delivering
EMT skills and recertification, four hours of
training is not nearly sufficient enough to re-
fresh one’s skills and knowledge. Having the
ability to provide realistic scenarios and imme-
diate feedback will greatly assist our members
as patient care experts. There isn’t anything
more rewarding than truly changing a patient’s
outcome as a result of our excellence in care.
The vision of the EMS Training Unit is
to align with Goal 1 of the Department’s strate-
gic plan, which is providing exceptional public
safety and emergency medical services to the
communities we serve. We can accomplish this
as a team by continuing to sharpen our medical
assessment and treat-
ment skills while, at
the same time, we can
fulfill Goal 3 of our
strategic plan, which
is to capitalize on ad-
vanced technology.
Every time we come
in contact with a
patient, we not only
have the opportunity
but also an obliga-
tion to take care of
their needs. Having the most up-to-date equip-
ment, along with the willingness to make a dif-
ference, is a key to our success.
Times have changed, and we need to
stay flexible in how we deliver service to the
communities we serve. Those in the field who
are actually responding to the 911 calls know
how challenging it is to get a good patient
history or even a clear picture of a chief com-
plaint from a patient. Just as we say that there
are no two heart attacks that present the same,
every patient deserves our undivided attention
and our commitment to ensure a thorough as-
sessment is done. It is often the most difficult
patients who need our greatest attention. Ap-
proaching every patient contact with our core
values in mind—service, professionalism,
integrity, respect, innovation, and trust—pro-
vides the pathway to a more favorable outcome
despite the situation.
The LAFD needs its members to be
mentally and physically prepared at all times.
The men and women of this department devote
their lives to answering the calls for help 24/7.
It is a team effort no matter where you are as-
signed. Those of us with decades of service un-
der our belts still remember the oath we took. It
is our duty to know our jobs and to be confident
in our performance. The EMS Training Unit’s
purchase of High Fidelity Mannequins will al-
low another generation of LAFD firefighters to
do just that!
November 2018 • 45
 MEMBERS
Harlan K. Hedlund, Firefighter II. Appointed February 3, 1958.
Retired on a service pension April 3, 1983 from FS 12-A.
Passed away September 3, 2018.

Freeman K. Dierlam, Fireman. Appointed October 21, 1946.

Retired on a disability pension October 1, 1963 from FS 15-A.
Passed away September 6, 2018.

Charles W. Debenham, Captain I. Appointed August 26, 1946.

Retired on a service pension June 1, 1976 from FS 55-A.
Passed away September 15, 2018.

Elsmworth L. Almany, Captain. Appointed May 12, 1962.

Retired on a disability pension March 22, 1979 from FS 38-A.
Passed away September 17, 2018.

Wallace B. Hasha, Engineer. Appointed July 17, 1952.

Retired on a service pension June 1, 1978 from FS 97-A.
Passed away September 19, 2018.

Deane C. Wickstrom, Jr., Fireman. Appointed January 16, 1965.

Retired on a disability pension August 16, 1984 from FS 105-A.
Passed away September 20, 2018.

Concepcion A. Ramirez, Firefighter II. Appointed December 19, 1955.

Retired on a service pension July 20, 1987 from FS 16-B.
Passed away September 29, 2018.

Ray L. Merriett, Fireman. Appointed December 14, 1948.

Retired on a service pension July 1, 1973 from FS 82-C.
Passed away October 5, 2018.

Norman M. Schultz, Fireman. Appointed April 18, 1959.

Retired on a disability pension April 3, 1987 from FS 37-C.
Passed away October 9, 2018.

William S. Plumlee, Engineer. Appointed March 17, 1947.

Retired on a service pension June 1, 1975 from FS 87-A.
Passed away October 11, 2018.

FAMILY
Judith A. Wahl, spouse of Carl A. Wahl, Jr., passed away September 19, 2018.
Blanche E. Evans, surviving spouse of Daniel A. Evans, passed away September 23, 2018.
Margaret L. Le Clair, surviving spouse of Edward F. Le Clair, passed away September 27, 2018.
Janice R. Baumgartner, spouse of Nicholas S. Baumgartner, passed away October 1, 2018.

46 • November 2018
 Jerry Puga
A special thank you goes out to Fire-
fighter Paramedic Richard Ramirez FS 2-C,
for serving as the Commissioner of LAFD
Handball for the past two years. Engineer Ge-
mail:
P.O. Box 41903
Los Angeles CA 90041
rardo “Jerry” Puga FS-26-A, has now volun-
teered to take on this awesome responsibility.
Puga is a 15-year veteran of the LAFD, and he
has spent at least 10 years of his career at Fire
Station 26, the current LAFD Handball top
Fire Station.
Puga is a solid “A” player who is best
known for his strong front court play, which
was developed on the 3-wall court. He is a past
champion of the LAFD 911 Memorial Tourna-
ment at Venice Beach, and he has several titles
outside the LAFD. He will continue to advance
the relationship with LAFD Handball and the
Southern California Handball Community.
Puga was a member of the Alhambra LA Fit-
ness Crew “Home of the National Champi-
ons” before joining the LAFD, therefore he is
already established as an ambassador to the
sport.
phone:
(800) 244-3439
His first action as commissioner was
to set up the “Handball LAFD” Facebook Ac-
count. Everyone is encouraged to join and wel-
comed to add to the photo gallery. Be sure and
post photos of your games and any comradery
related to the perfect game. The Fall Singles
Handball Tournament starts in late October,
with the finals scheduled for December 13,
2018 at the Los Angeles Athletic Club. LAFD
Handball email: lacityhandball@gmail.com
SAVE THE DATE
The Annual Turkey Burner Handball
Tournament is returning to Los Cab on No-
vember 24, 2018. It is a one-day doubles fund-
raiser to support youth handball. Contact Roy
Harvey lafdhandball@yahoo.com or Jerry
Puga lacityhandball@gmail.com for details.
visit:
www.LAFRA.org
November 2018 • 47

Dear LAFRA,
Please accept this donation to the Wid-
ows, Orphan’s & Disabled Firemen’s Fund in
the name of Don E. Brian. He was an Arson
Investigator at F.S. 99 where I was an engineer.
Don was one of those people that everyone en-
joyed being around, and was captivating when
he would tell stories of things he had seen or
done. He was very soft spoken and would get
a little gleam in his eyes while relating these
stories. He was a true gentleman and friend. He
will be missed.
Sincerely,
George DeMott
Newhall, CA
Dear Andy & Fire Family:
Heartfelt thanks and gratitude to Andy
Kuljis, for his warmth and caring assistance
after the death of my husband, Assistant Chief
James J. O’Neill. The Fire Family is a top-
notch organization. I was deeply touched by
the outpouring of love, compassion, and sup-
port. Andy, the members of Fire Station 112,
and Chaplain Tim Werle, arranged and pro-
vided a first-class “Celebration of Life” service
on Fire Boat 2, San Pedro Harbor. The service
was a memorable and moving tribute, honor-
ing a great man – beloved husband, extended
family, friend, & officer. Deepest thanks to all,
who provided solace during our time of loss.
God Bless,
Lynn O’Neill
48 • November 2018
Dear LAFRA
I wish to make a donation in memory of
my husband, Walter Crumpacker, Jr. I truly en-
joy the Grapevine. I always read the President’s
message first, then the Retired Guys, who is so
talented in writing articles for us. I noted his
space was missing. I also enjoy tips on taxes,
finances, and other ideas. Thank your staff.
Sincerely,
Ethel Crumpacker
Topeka, KS
Dear Andy,
We would like to thank you and your
LAFRA staff for all your invaluable sup-
port and guidance for Mom and the family
after Dad passed away this past July. Many
thanks also to George Negrete and Jim Finn
(LAFDHS) for performing and coordinating
the memorial service at Old 27’s. The flag, the
flowers, 10 bells, friends, family, and of course
an amazing Ray Walker song, all seemed a
perfect way to honor Dad.
Ron & Stacey Leydecker,
Kelli Leydecker & Gene Lyerla
LAFRA,
Please accept this donation to the
WODFF in remembrance of several great
people: Arliss Berenger, great engineer and
a person that knew how to sell someone an
item, plus $100 for each promotion you make;
Claude Creasey, a B/C that when assigned at
the dispatch center always had your back and
was a great contributor to FIRESCOPE; Mel
Leydecker, a B/C that you could trust and was
fun to work for; Glen Dinger, knew his job and
was great to learn from and work alongside;
Dean Cathey, a classmate and very proficient
in his job; Tim De Luca and Don Anthony,
deputy chiefs that I truly admired.
Also, I would like to thank the orga-
nizations and members that take care of us
retired members: LAFRA Board Members,
COA, Los Angeles Retired Fire & Police As-
sociation, Andy Kuljis for always helping
families, Ken Buzzell - pension board with a
vast amount of knowledge, Don Forrest, Work
Compensation issues, and Jim Finn and Frank
Borden for managing the fire department mu-
seums.
Bob Neamy
Gardnerville, NV
President Steinbacher:
A year
ago I wrote to
you about the
loss of Kevin
Dowling, re-
tired Captain
II Tom Dowl-
ing’s son. At
that time, I
informed you
that his other son, Erik, was diagnosed with the
same cancer as his brother. Unfortunately, Erik
has lost his battle also. Erik fought his battle
with such courage and he was an inspiration to
many of his friends and family members.
I wish to thank Steve Berkery and the
Relief for the help they have given my sister
and her family in a time of need. I also want
to thank Mike Balzano for keeping in touch
with my sister and I, and for his concerns and
prayers. Last, for those who did pray, thank
you also. I know there were many. For those
who wish to help, there has been a scholar-
ship opened up in the name of Kevin and Erik
at St. Francis High School where they both
played football and both wore the number 55.
So please donate to keep their names alive at:
http://sfhslc.ejoinme.org/dowlingstrong55
Again, Thank You
A/O Ed Tapia, retired
FF Robert Tapia, FS 66-C
Dear LAFRA,

Please accept this donation to the

WODFF in honor of my husband, Richard M.
Smith who passed away in May. You have done
so much for me. I truly appreciate everything:
the Flag from Richard’s last station, the flow-
ers, the online help—everything! The family
and I miss this guy terribly. We were married
for 60 years. I’m so proud to have been a fire-
man’s wife. Richard loved the fire service and
was a fireman through and through. He would
be so pleased if he knew how well I was taken
care of by the LAFD. What a great group of
dedicated folks! Protect Those
Love,
Anna L. Smith with Special Needs
Oroville, CA
Firefighter Justin Mendence set up a special needs trust to ensure his
LAFRA- son and entire family is taken care of in the best manner possible.
In honor of Chloe and Averie Lee’s 8th “You want to think everybody’s going to take care of your kid because
Birthday, and in remembrance of their father,
Brian Lee. We would like to make a donation
to LAFRA. Happy 8th Birthday sweet grand-
daughters, Nonie and Pawpaw.
If I handwrite a will,
everybody loves him, but unless you have a plan in place…you’re planning
to fail. Leaving it to chance is not in me and my wife’s vocabulary.”

Love You,
Irvette and Jerry Smith isn’t that
A Special good
Needs Trust enough?
Helps You:
• Set up long-term funding for living expenses & care
LAFD,
• Determine who will be the primary caregiver
Thank you for saving my life. My blood
sugar went to 27 as I thought I was going to
• Create an advisory group of experts to help caregivers make
bottom out and took insulin. sound decisions
Thanks, • Ensure your child’s assets are protected & well-managed
Robert J. Hromadka
• Ensure your child maintains eligibility for special services
LAFRA
“I sleep a little bit easier at night knowing that my son is set up for his
Please accept this donation to the entire life,” Justin said.
WODFF in memory of my good friend, Dean
Cathey. Dean possessed a remarkable blend
of integrity, honesty, and loyalty to the LAFD
and his friends as well as a great sense of hu-
mor. He personified the term, “an officer and a
gentleman.” He was a wonderful human being
and my wife and I miss him dearly.

Sincerely, Whether you care for a child or adult with special needs or not,
Alan and Robin Schroeder everyone should consider setting up an estate plan. Ask for a
Gardnerville, NV “Getting Started Kit” today by emailing Relief Association
Development & Marketing Director Marlene Casillas at
MCasillas@lafra.org or calling (323) 259-5217.
November 2018 • 49
 We hope you are enjoying the new yearbook. If you
would like an additional copy, we have a few extras avail-
able for purchase. They are $50 each, plus $5 for shipping.
All the proceeds go to the Widows, Orphans and Disabled
Firemen’s Fund. Send a check to LAFRA WODFF for $55,
along with your name and mailing address to:

2017 Yearbook
7470 No. Figueroa Street
Los Angeles, CA 90041
50 • November 2018

LAFD HISTORY – THE BEL AIR FIRE, November 6, 1961
Each year when November comes
around I think of two significant events for me
on the LAFD. My appointment to the Depart-
ment on November 7, 1959, and the Bel Air
Fire on November 6, 1961. Now with Califor-
nia in a major drought, the wildland fire sea-
son has already been very destructive, setting
records in acreage and structures destroyed...
– Frank Borden, LAFD Retired
SUMMARY
During the week of November 6, 1961,
the City of Los Angeles was visited by the most
disastrous brush fire in the history of Southern
California. Lashing out from a point of origin
high on the north slope of the Santa Monica
Mountains, the fire raced through tinder-dry
vegetation to the summit, leaped across Mul-
holland Drive and raged down the south slope
into Stone Canyon on a rapidly widening front.
Driven savagely before fifty-mile-per-hour
winds, the flames sped on south and westward.
Thermal air currents, created by the intense
heat, coupled with the high velocity winds
swirled countless thousands of burning brands
aloft to deposit them far in advance of the main
fire front. Natural and manmade barriers were
utterly incapable of interrupting the progress
of the fire. Before the wild rush of this roaring
destruction was finally subdued, 6,090 acres of
valuable watershed had been consumed. Infi-
nitely more tragic was the incineration of 484
costly residences and 21 other buildings.
Later, when the Bel Air-Brentwood Fire
had reached an apex of violence, a third fire
erupted just south of Mulholland Drive near
Topanga Canyon. This is approximately seven
miles to the west of the Stone Canyon area.
This fire immediately demanded the attentions
of the already overtaxed forces working on the
Bel Air-Brentwood conflagration.
Concurrently with these fires, twelve
other major emergencies occurred within the
metropolitan portions of the city. Unprecedent-
ed demands were made upon the resources of
the fire department.
Frank’s story: On November 6, 1961, I was a
two-year fireman working at FS 92. We had a
Submitted by Frank Borden • Director of Operations, LAFDHS
beautiful 1958 Seagrave engine, shop #60013
at the time. It was already warm that morning
with a Santa Ana wind blowing from the north
east. We were about to have our 8 a.m. lineup at
the front of the apparatus floor when we looked
up through the opening apparatus floor doors
and saw the huge loom-up coming from the
Santa Monica Mountains right in front of us.
We didn’t wait for the dispatch as Captain Jack
Skinner told us to suit up and respond. Engi-
neer Gene “Hoppy” Hopkins started the rig as
Vince Cortazzo, Jack Holman, Bill Stephens,
and I jumped on the tailboard for one of the
most memorable shifts we ever had. This was
the day of the Bel Air fire. As we approached
the fire we encountered the fire blowing hori-
zontally across the road in front of us. The
rig stopped as we watched from the tailboard
Capt. Skinner and Engineer Hopkins (both
experienced veterans of the LAFD) discuss-
ing a plan. The plan was to drive through the
fire - which we did. When we got out the other
side our hose had dozens of small smoldering
burn holes from the embers and my dungaree
pants leg was on fire. The fire was moving very
fast when we met the chief on the ridge and it
seemed like night as the sun was covered by
heavy black smoke. We were told to try to get
ahead of the fire and protect the structures the
majority of which had wood shingle roofs and
were burning blocks at a time sending burn-
ing wood shingles into the
air and transported by winds
up to 50 miles per hour far
ahead of the main fire. Many
of the streets had no water so
we used our tank and a few
times our axe and Hayward
to pull burning shingles from
the roofs that had just ignit-
ed. While on one of the roofs
Vince Cortazzo and I were hit
with a full borate drop. I left
some of the borate residue in
my black helmet as a remind-
er. We traveled from block
to block and house to house
using the “hit and run” tech-
nique saving many homes
from total destruction. We were effective be-
cause of our experienced Captain and Engineer
and a great crew of firemen that never gave up.
Engine 92 was at the corner of Rosco-
mare and Anzio Road. A beautiful home with a
wood shake roof that had just “taken off.” The
roof was ablaze. I advanced a one and a half
inch line into the home, and was in the attic
on a ladder from the house. Engineer Hopkins,
who was out with the rig, noticed the roof was
starting to weaken and rushed inside, telling
me to get out. As we quickly made our way
through the hallway to the outside, part of the
roof collapsed into the structure. A big chan-
delier fell right between us. It was a close call,
but only one of many that we and other fire-
men would face throughout the day and night.
I have always owed “Hoppy” a great debt of
gratitude for getting me out of the house. On a
sad note, Engineer “Hoppy” Hopkins who re-
tired as a Captain II passed away in his 90’s and
still playing golf. He had led a long and reward-
ing life and made a positive impact on so many
fellow firefighters as a mentor and teacher.
That evening we wound up somewhere
in Brentwood south of Sunset Blvd. putting out
roof fires and structures after the burning em-
bers had landed west of the Sepulveda pass. I
certainly had my baptism by fire on that day
and night. It was an experience burned into my
memory.
Engine 92 on Roscomare Rd. taken by LAFD photographer
Fireman Frank Manwarren, on Nov. 6th.
November 2018 • 51
 The LAFD Historical Society has the
original “Engine 92”, Shop # 60013. It’s the
1958 Seagrave that “Hoppy” drove to and op-
erated at the fire. The rig is now in our “shop”
being restored with a little engine work and
some polish. It still has the original paint. Re-
tired Engineers Mark Howell and Tim Griffin
have been working on it and soon you will see
it in running condition with a plan to have it on
display.
The LAFDHS also has one of our first
LAFD helicopters (a Bell 47) under restoration
by volunteer Jeff Moir, retired LAFD helicop-
ter pilot. He is doing an awesome job of res-
toration, even got the engine running. This is
the same type of copter that was used for aerial
observation at the fire.
The LAFD Bell 47 helicopter that is under restoration
by the LAFDHS and Retired Pilot Jeff Moir. We will soon
have a special event to display it and see it running
(not flying)
On Saturdays during the month of No-
vember we will be playing the LAFD movie
about the Bel Air Fire “Design for Disaster” at
our Hollywood Museums.
Bill Stephens and I are the only mem-
bers of Engine 92 that day here to tell our
stories. Rest in Peace Captain Jack Skinner,
Engineer “Hoppy” Hopkins, Fireman Vince
Cortazzo, Fireman Jack Holman.
HISTORY OF FIRE STATION 27
by Willis M. Martin
Edited Version from 1910 to 1930
As a result of the 1910 election, the
City of Hollywood voted to annex to the City
of Los Angeles. Prior to the annexation, all
firefighting had been performed by volunteer
firemen who drove and operated horse-drawn
fire equipment. The City soon established a
firehouse known as Hose Company No. 7 at
Cahuenga and Selma Avenues. Under the com-
mand of Chief Jack Atwell, the small station
housed the first motorized piece of firefighting
apparatus in the City.
Of the many fires recorded during that
period of history, one was journalized as fol-
lows: Saturday, January 7, 1911, 2:40 p.m. Fire
at 324 So. Wilcox. Outside closet and fence.
Loss $50.00; cause: unknown. Extended to
318 S. Wilcox, one-story, frame barn. Loss
$250.00. Extended to 100 Sunset Blvd., one
52 • November 2018
story frame livery stable. Loss $50.00. Ex-
tended to 319 Townsend Ave., dry cleaning
works. Loss $200 structure, $100 contents.
Extended to 329 Townsend Ave., one-story
frame barn. Loss $35.00 structure, $20.00 con-
tents. Used 800 ft. of hose. Worked 2 hours, 50
minutes. Four call men received $3.00 each.
Although Hose Co. No. 7 had the first
piece of motorized firefighting apparatus in the
City, horsepower was still the primary method
of getting from here to there, as attested to by
a May 15, 1911 journal entry: “Got horse and
buggy from Eng. No. 20 this a.m. and Shill and
Atwell tested hydrants all day. Kept horses
here all night.” The hydrants had wooden plugs
in them in those days, hence the term “plug
buggy” was coined.
Original Fire house of “City of Hollywood” as annexed
in 1910 with Tourist Auto, which was the first piece of
automobile fire apparatus in L.A. Fire Dept.
In 1913, a modern structure was built at
1625-29 No. Cahuenga Ave and served both as
the Fire and Police Department. Hose Co. No.
7 moved to the new location and its designation
was changed to Engine Co. No. 27. Firefighters
called this home until 1930, when they and the
Police Department moved to new and separate
locations.
According to Chief O’Malley’s records,
on New Year’s Eve of 1915, Engine 27 and
Truck 9 responded to Fielding and Fountain,
one block out of City limits and 1700 feet from
the nearest hydrant. Upon arrival the house was
burned beyond saving. The companies worked
with garden hose, buckets, and pike pole. E-27
and 9 returned to quarters “leaving neighbors
who said they would stay with it until it was
out.” Some things have changed.
During Prohibition when the firemen
and policemen were working from 1625-29
No. Cahuenga, several of the members joint-
ly rented a residence in Laurel Canyon. This
fraternal lodging was appropriately named the
“Boars Nest.” Occasionally the Police Depart-
ment would raid a speak-easy, confiscate the
booze and bring it back to the station, holding
it there for evidence. It should be pointed out
that the P.D. only needed one bottle of the stuff
for evidence and the major portion of the cache
would mysteriously disappear.
In 1927 the City was given property
located at Vine and Lexington. Chief Engi-
neer R. J. Scott took the opportunity to rec-
ommend a new fire station there. However,
the community leaders sounded a loud protest
complaining they didn’t want a fire station on
Vine Street. In fact, they went so far as to get
a court injunction to prohibit construction of a
fire station there. Subsequently, the property
at 6428 Delongpre was acquired by degree of
condemnation on October 24, 1929 for a total
cost of $24,321. Three additional lots were pur-
chased for a grand total of $52,415. On Janu-
ary 16, 1930, the Fire Commission requested
the establishment of a fire station at Wilcox and
Delongpre. The City was now being charged
$500 per month for the building at 1625-29
No. Cahuenga and the tenancy was to expire on
June 30, 1930.
Los Angeles City Architect P. K.
Schabarum, uncle of present Los Angeles
County Supervisor Pete Schabarum, designed
a two-story, brown, brick building, with natu-
ral wood trim, tile roof, and creative masonry
work. The new building incorporated 18,227
square feet and for many years was the largest
fire station west of the Mississippi River. The
total expenditure to the City, including land
and construction, was approximately $178,000.
F.S. 27 was going to be “The” Hollywood fire
station and various influential civic leaders ap-
Original Fire house of “City of Hollywood” as annexed
in 1910 with Tourist Auto, which was the first piece of
automobile fire apparatus in L.A. Fire Dept.
parently exerted enough pressure to ensure an
appropriate edifice would be constructed.
On July 1, 1930, Engine Co. No. 27,
Hose Co. No. 2, Truck Co. No. 9, Rescue Co.
No. 2, and Salvage Co. No. 4 moved into the
unfinished building. Although the building
was not entirely completed at the time of oc-
cupancy, a substantial savings was made in the
termination of rental fees. As testimony to the
urgency of moving into the new building, on
Saturday, June 28, 1930--”Captain Roth and 3
men (went) to the new house to spread cement
on temporary paving. Rec’d. 10 sacks cement
from storeroom.”
As a tribute befitting this grand old
building, which has seen some of Hollywood’s
best times and some of its worse, on October
20, 1976, the Los Angeles Cultural Heritage
Board declared, by Ordinance No. 121,971 Fire
Station 27 to be Historical-Cultural Monument
No. 165.
This article appeared in the May, 1981 issue
of THE FIREMEN’S GRAPEVINE.
Frank’s Note: On July 10, 1992 Task Force 27,
RA 27 and Battalion 5 moved to “New” Fire
Station 27 next door at 1327 N. Cole Ave. In
October 2001, the LAFD Historical Society
opened the doors to the “LAFD Hollywood
Fire Museum and Fallen Firefighters Memo-
rial”. The biggest Fire Museum in a Fire Sta-
tion in the USA.
Relaxing in the recreation room with some guitar music
a card game and a board game.
Photo of Old FS 27 (Now the Museum) and part of the
LAFD Fallen firefighters Memorial looking south with the
New FS 27 next door.
Dolly Parton at Fire Station 27 filming a commercial.
Dave Lowe was her tour guide. I was the A/C in Division
1 and got the call to come to 27’s. She was so nice to
everybody and I managed to get an autographed photo.
1968 – Heavy Duty Task Force 27,
Squad 27and Battalion 5.
Marines and friends of the Corps are enjoying authentic SOS served on metal trays in the
dormitory of the Museum at Old 27’s during the Marine Corps Birthday on November 10th.
November 2018
MARINE CORPS 243RD BIRTHDAY AT
THE HOLLYWOOD FIRE MUSEUM
It is time again to celebrate the 243rd
birthday of the U.S. Marine Corps, a tradition
started over 25 years ago on the LAFD by Sgt.
Major Bill Staples and Master Sgt. Dave Na-
varro (Both Members of the LAFD now re-
tired) who do a great job organizing the event
and putting on the ceremony. This year they
are turning over the reins to Richard Perron, a
Marine Master Sgt. who served 20 years on ac-
tive duty in the Corps, retired and came on the
LAFD. He is a Captain at Fire Station 57 C.
Now he is in the planning stages of the Marine
Corps Birthday on November 10th at the Hol-
lywood Fire Museum. I am sure he will have
a great program. Marines and friends of the
Corps (Other Branches of the Service, LAFD
and LAPD members) are all invited to attend.
We have a raffle and many displays and there is
S.O.S for breakfast on the traditional mess hall
metal trays. We start early at 0800 Hrs.
November 2018 • 53
 LOS ANGELES FIREMEN’S RELIEF ASSOCIATION MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES
September 12, 2018
CALL TO ORDER
President Bob Steinbacher called the
meeting of the Board of Trustees of
the Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief
Association to order at 9:42 a.m.
ROLL CALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Motion carried to approve the Board
Bob Steinbacher, President
Jeff Cawdrey, Vice President
Trustee Steve Berkery
Trustee Jim Duffy
Trustee Frank Aguirre
Trustee Henry Gasbarri
Trustee Tim Freeman
Trustee Richard Moody
Trustee Danny Wu
Trustee Mike Sailhamer
Trustee Chris Stine
Trustee Joe Vigil
Trustee Tim Larson – Pension
Todd Layfer - Executive Director
Liberty Unciano – Controller-Treasurer
MEMBERS ABSENT: were only a few for this election. He
Trustee John Jacobsen
Trustee Tyler Tomich
Trustee Gayle Sonoda
Trustee Kenneth Breskin
Trustee Rick Godinez
Trustee Craig White
Trustee Gene Bednarchik
Trustee David Peters
Trustee Steve Domanski - Pension
Trustee Doak Smith – Pension
GUESTS: with Pensions and indicated that their
Jim Dolan, Asst. Secretary
Andy Kuljis, LAFRA Staff
Dave Wagner, Grapevine Editor
INVOCATION & Flag Salute
Tim Larson led the invocation. Chris
Stine led the flag salute.
54 • November 2018
RATIFICATION OF MINUTES
Bob Steinbacher entertained a motion
to ratify and approve the Board
Meeting Minutes of August 8, 2018.
Frank Aguirre so moved. Steve Berkery
seconded. There was no discussion or
objections.
Meeting Minutes of August 8, 2018.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
1) Bob Steinbacher referred to the
Election of President and Vice President
and indicated that at the last Board
meeting Jeff Cawdrey and himself
were the only nominations for these
positions. There were no objections
to the election of Bob Steinbacher for
President and Jeff Cawdrey for Vice
President for 2019.
2) Jeff Cawdrey referred to the proposed
Bylaw changes and indicated that there
stated that the Group 1 Trustees are
up for election this year and indicated
that all but one Trustee has decided
to run again for the next three years.
He indicated that any other member
wanted to run for a Trustee position
has until October 15th to submit their
intent to run paperwork.
3) Bob Steinbacher provided an
update on the contract negotiations
discussions are focused on claims
data and fiduciary responsibilities.
He also provided an update on Kaiser
submitting a bid for a plan to the
Pension Dept. He indicated that he
would provided another update after
the next Pension Board meeting.
4) Bob Steinbacher referred to the
Board Offsite meeting on September
23rd and indicated they will get started
by 10:00 am.
VICE PRESIDENT REPORT
1) Jeff Cawdrey provided an update on
the upcoming IFEBP Conference in
New Orleans.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
The Board entered into Executive
Session at 10:25 a.m.
The Board adjourned from Executive
Session at 10:50 a.m.
A Personnel matter and member
updates were discussed during
Executive Session. No actions were
taken.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S
REPORT
1) Todd Layfer referred to the Medicare
conference he attended and provided
information pertaining to member
statistics, regulations and eligibility. He
indicated they reviewed coordination
of benefits, DME and hospital beds.
He indicated that he received good
information that he would share with
HealthScope Benefits and the LAFRA
Member Services Dept.
2) Todd Layfer referred to the
Grapevine Assessment, Code 96, and
indicated that it was deducted from
the active members’ pay period ending
9/1/18 in the amount of $48. This Code
96 is deducted once per year.
3) Todd Layfer informed that there are
new computers throughout the office
and indicated that the staff was trained
with the new Windows 10 and Office
2016 software.
4) Todd Layfer referred to the RF Code
and reported on the amount spent for
the fiscal year.
ADMINISTRATIVE
COMMITTEE REPORT
Frank Aguirre presented the following
motions.
The committee recommends and I so
move to pay the usual and customary
bills in the amount of $787,219.89.
There was no discussion or objections.
Motion carried to pay the usual and
customary bills in the amount of
$787,219.89.
The committee recommends and I so
move to approve $500 for the LAFD
Annual Fallen Firefighter Memorial on
October 13th. There was no discussion
or objections.
Motion carried to approve $500 for
the LAFD Annual Fallen Firefighter
Memorial.
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
Steve Berkery presented the following
motion.
The committee recommends and I so
move to pay:
The Sick & Injury benefits in the
amount of $83,216.67
The Estate Planning benefit in the
amount of $9,595
The Life & Accident Death Benefit in
the amount of $24,000
The Relief Death Benefits in the
amount of $40,000
There was no discussion or objections.
Motion carried to pay the above
Relief benefits.
Steve Berkery read the names of
members who recently passed and
asked for a moment of silence from the
Board.
MEMORIALS
Frederick A. Lammerman
Glen G. Irwin
Richard A. Williams
Peter J. Goff Jr.
Ronald E. Meador
Michael Rydzewski
James J. Mullen Jr.
Sam Diannitto
ASSISTANCE COMMITTEE
Steve Berkery presented the following
motions.
The committee recommends and I so
move to accept the donations in the
amount of $10,940.58 to the Widows,
Orphans & Disabled Firemen’s Fund.
There was no discussion or objections.
Motion carried to accept the
donations in the amount of
$10,940.58 to the Widows, Orphans
& Disabled Firemen’s Fund.
The committee recommends and
I so move to approve the financial
assistance applications for surviving
spouses, active and retired members.
There was no discussion or objections.
Motion carried to approve the
financial assistance applications for
surviving spouses, active and retired
members.
ADVANCEMENT COMMITTEE
REPORT
The committee recommends and I so
move to advance funds for both active
and retired members. There was no
discussion or objections.
Motion carried to advance funds for
both active and retired members.
GRAPEVINE COMMITTEE
REPORT
Danny Wu reported that the City
Employee’s Club has dropped their
advertisement in the Grapevine. He
indicated that Dave Wagner informed
him that there are 500 extra anniversary
yearbooks and indicated that were
sending them to the new recruits that
joined the department after the book
was published in exchange for WODFF
donations.
SETTING OF DATES
1) LAFRA Board Offsite
– September 23rd
2) LAFD Invitational Golf Tournament
– September 24th
3) IFEBP Annual Conf.
– October 14 – 17
4) LAFRA Open House
– November 3rd
RETIREMENT DINNERS
1) Joe Couce – October 7th
@ Private Home
ADJOURNMENT
Bob Steinbacher entertained a motion
to adjourn. Richard Moody so moved.
Henry Gasbarri seconded. There was
no discussion and no objections.
Motion carried to adjourn. The
Board of Trustees meeting adjourned
at 11:15 a.m.
Bob Steinbacher, President
November 2018 • 55
 Donations to Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemen’s Fund - October 2018

PHILIP KNIGHT in memory of James Mullen BRUCE L. BLACKWELL in memory of Ronald Meador

RUTH MULLEN JOHN H. KLEPP in memory of George Fischer

JAVIER ASCARRUNZ LA CITY FIREFIGHTER GOLF CLUB

MARVIN H. FINK CARLA BECK in memory of Mel Leydecker T

DIANE LEYDECKER in memory of Melvin L. Leydecker TED AND LINDA DAHL in memory of Peter Varnum

UNITY OF OROVILLE in memory of Richard Smith JOAN JOHNSON in memory of Peter Varnum A
KIRK P. BINGHAM from the Retired Firefighters’ Breakfast TIMOTHY KEEGAN in memory of Ronald Meador
at Mimi’s Restaurant in Thousand Oaks C
KELLY KEESLER in memory of im
LYNN O’NEILL in memory of James O’Neill Battalion Chief Joseph Archbold u
ROBERT D. SCHULZ in memory of Gregory Schulz KELLI LEYDECKER in memory of Melvin Leydecker a
p
BETTY R. SCHWAN in memory of Thomas J. Young JANE MAY-AHEARN in memory of Peter D. Varnum a
JOYCE W. TURNER CORY MCDANIEL lo
h
JAMES R. GOLDWORTHY TERRY PAULSON in memory of Peter Varnum a
in
JULIE L. SPICKA-JEFTIC in memory of Peter Varnum SUSAN SMITH in memory of Vernon B. “Bruce” Larson

JAMES L. STIGLICH in memory of Pete Goff DEBBIE ZAURA in memory of Cecil Morris B
c
RAYMOND CIRANNA in memory of Sam Diannitto LYNDA BADUM in memory of Melvin Leydecker
y
HELEN F. WERGELAND in memory of James J. Mullen, Jr. PATRICK CROWLEY in memory of James Mullen b
ri
FAYE A. STEVENS in memory of Jim Mullen CATHY EGAN in memory of James Mullen
d
DANIEL J. KEMP in memory of George Fisher HENRY FUHRMANN in memory of Melvin Leydecker o

DENNIS L. COVILLE in memory of Jim Mullen PAUL HOLMEN in memory of Melvin Leydecker H
DENNIS LUNDIN in memory of George Fischer CAROL KEENAN O’GORMAN in memory of James Mullen
C
NANCY M. NYQUIST in memory of Bruce Larson TIMOTHY LARSON in memory of Dean Wickstrom m
KAREN R. FISCHER in memory of Peter Varnum ELISABETH LOTH in memory of Melvin Leydecker im
m
JANET HERMAN in memory of Sam Diannitto, Jr. LEIGH MANTONI STEWART in memory of Sam Diannitto b
LON F. ROBERTS from the Antelope Valley Breakfast Club LISA MCKILLIPS in memory of James Mullen M

JAKE DAMERON in memory of Mel Leydecker WENDY MILLER in memory of James Mullen M
b
MARGUERITE KEATING in memory of Mel Leydecker DIANA MOORE in memory of Peter Varnum
h
UNITED WAY, INC. MIKE AND CATHY NYBY in memory of Melvin Leydecker w
C
GREGORY MITCHELL JEREMY PEREZ from the Secret Society Car Group
m
M. MCLOUD in memory of James Mullen DENNIS STRONG in memory of William Rose

WERNER WAHLERS in memory of George Fischer JEFFREY WILLIAMS in memory of Melvin Leydecker

PAUL TERRIS SEETA ZIEGER in memory of James Mullen

ARCHER R. MORGAN ROBERT KLOPFENSTEIN from the Ret FF Breakfast Kern

*APY
A. KEN KRUPNIK GEORGE F. DEMOTT in memory of Donald Brian and
subj
56 • November 2018
 TAKE ADVANTAGE OF HIGHER YIELDS
Are You Laddering? Here is an example. Let us assume you have $25,000 and want to buy
certificates with maturities up to five years.
Choosing the length of a savings account is an
important decision. Longer maturity certificates
usually provide the higher returns, but they
also tie up your funds. Shorter maturities
provide more liquidity and the flexibility to take
advantage of rising rates, but with usually
lower returns. Ideally, you would want the
highest current return coupled with liquidity
and the ability to invest at higher rates if
interest rates rise.

Building a "ladder" of maturities is a way to

create a "portfolio" of certificates that enables
you to earn good rates, have some liquidity and
be able to lock in higher rates if interest rates
rise. Simply stated, with this strategy, you
divide your funds into pieces and buy amounts
of different maturity certificates.

How Much Do You Have in a Money Market?

Choosing the right combination of money
markets and share certificates is also an
important decision. If you are expecting to
make a purchase where you need cash, it may
be best to park the needed payment in a
Money Market so you have ready access to it.
Money Market accounts offer more flexibility,
but usually with lower rates. You could get
higher rates with longer-term maturities, but
what happens if rates go up even more?
Choosing a combination of account types and
maturities can combine the best of both.
By making initial purchases of $5,000
in each of the different maturities,
you will have a certificate maturing
each year and you can use the
proceeds to buy a new 5 year
certificate. That way, as time goes on,
more and more of your funds would
be earning the highest rate and you
would still have annual liquidity. If
rates rise, you have liquidity to buy
higher yielding certificates. If rates
fall, you are still earning high rates
on your existing positions.
Using this "Ladder of Maturities"
strategy can help position you to
benefit regardless of the direction of
interest rate changes.
Take advantage of the rising rates and
let your money work harder for you.
Sincerely,
Dixie Abramian
President/CEO

No one can accurately predict the

future of interest rates. Reminder: The Annual Meeting will be
February 28, 2019.

*APY=Annual Percentage Yield. Minimum balance is $1,000. Federally insured by the NCUA. Dividends will be compounded monthly
and will be credited monthly. A penalty will or may be imposed for early withdrawal. Fees can reduce earnings on an account. All rates
subject to change without notice. For current rate information, please call 800-231-1626. Rates accurate as of 10/1/2018.
November 2018 • 57
 CLASSIFIEDS
For advertising information, please contact:
Eric Santiago - (323) 259-5231 - eric@lafra.org
MERCHANDISE
FOR SALE
1978 YAMAHA IT250. Like new,
only has 430 miles on it . Never
been crashed, all original, still
lic. Been in my garage last 35
years. Tools ,aluminum ramp
and 5 gal. Gas can included.
$800 or best offer. Dennis Gro-
gan (714) 743-0392
2007 WINNEBAGO/ITASCA
MH 34H. 350 Caterpillar, MH
Allison 3000 6 speed on a
Freightliner chassis. One owner,
non-smoker, 77,500 miles,
transferrable extended war-
ranty. Full body paint, always
covered. New cover included.
Many extras, 2, 130 watt solar
panels, 2 TV’s, Direct TV auto
satellite locator. All service
records along with oil sample
records every year since new.
$78,500 OBO. Located in La
Habra, CA. Must sell do to
medical reasons. Roy Francis
562-5051413 email:
royfrancis73@yahoo.com
2012 KAWASAKI NINJA 650.
Red, 1960 miles. $5500. Chris-
tian (310) 548-3671.
TIRES FOR SALE. Goodyear
Eagle F1 Asymmetrical (Run
Flat) 225/40/19 (89Y) - $250 ea.
255/35/19 (92Y) - $200 ea.
Call (310) 876-5758.
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
58 • November 2018
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
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- WINDOWS & PATIO DOORS
ment Management of other - vinyl replacement windows
retirement and non-retirement & Patio doors. I also carry
assets is also available. We aluminum, wood and entry door
charge a fixed flat advisory systems. Rick Brandelli, Capt.
fee to manage your deferred LACoFD, FS 8-C (800) 667-
compensation plan. We do NOT 6676. www.GeeWindows.com
charge a percentage of assets
under management. (800) 573-
4829. www.ALHEWITT.com
VACATION
RENTALS
EXECUTIVE RETIREMENT
SOLUTIONS, (ERS INC.)
BIG BEAR CABIN. 2 bedroom,
2 bath, 2 story. Sleeps 6-8.
We are a professional planning
organization that specializes in
About 6 miles from ski slopes
& lake. Fireplace/wood, cable,
“tax-free” and secure retirement
full kitchen - furnished. $100
plan strategies which allow the
per night M - Th. $110 per night
public to benefit from competent
F-Sun. Weekly available. Sheri
and ethical financial planning.
(909) 851-1094 or (760) 948-
We have offices in Palos Verdes
2844.
and Simi Valley, California. Call
Todd Ford (424) 772-6050 or fax
BIG BEAR - Beautiful decked
(424) 242-0002 or email:
2 story cabin. 2 bedroom, 1
todd@toddcford.com
bath. Sleeps six. Pets OK. Near
lake, slopes, shopping. Fire-
FIRE FAMILY ESTATE SALES
place/wood, cable/WiFi. Fully
– Call us when a loved one
furnished except linens. Winter
passes, moves to a nursing facil-
$120/$700. Summer $110/$600.
ity or downsizes. Our profession-
2 night minimum. Call Donna/
al staff can handle every aspect
Beep (760)723-1475.
of estate liquidation. We have
www.schaffercabin.com
worked with many fire families
and are here to help. Rebecca
BIG BEAR LAKE’S FINEST-
Martin, (818) 216-3637
Deluxe lakeside townhouse,
www.firefamilyestatesales.
2 bedrooms, 3 baths, 2 cable
com
TVs, HBO, DVD, WiFi, 2 wood
burning fireplaces, laundry room,
FRANCHISORS WANT TO
tennis court, indoor pool, sauna,
PARTNER WITH FIREFIGHT-
spa, boat dock. Fully equipped,
ERS. Have you considered own-
including all linens. Sleeps 6.
ing a franchise? Most brands
310-541-8311 or nmbigbear@
offer 1st Responder and Veteran
gmail.com
discounts. Let me help you sort
through the options for free! The
BULLHEAD CITY, AZ. Home for
franchisor pays me. I’m the son
rent with river access, 15 min-
and grandson of LAFD, Army
utes to casinos. Google search
veteran and multi-unit franchi-
airbnb 17558148 for pictures
see. andy@thefranchisecon
and more info. Call for Grape-
sultingcompany.com
vine rates. Contact Lewis Smith
112-B (310)261-0894
GARAGE DOOR INSTALLA-
TION & SERVICE. Garage
CATALINA BEACH COTTAGE
doors and openers. Need to
- 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, one block
replace your broken springs?
to beach, view, fully equipped
or does your door need repair,
housekeeping unit. Marci (818)
even replaced? We do it all from
347-6783 or Clarence (310) 510-
new product to repairing old.
2721.
Call (661) 860-4563 Grassroots
Garage Doors, Inc. Lic# 950020.
CATALINA CONDO - HAM-
Son of 35 year veteran fireman.
ILTON COVE. Ocean front, 1
bed, 1 1/2 bath, sleeps 4. Steps
MACKENZIE TUCKER HOUSE
to beach, pool, gym, putting
SITTING & PET SITTER. Short
course, tennis and more. Newly
or extended stays. For Reserva-
refurbished, fully equipped.
tions, call (661)703-7154
Includes golf cart, WiFi. Contact
TuckerMackenzie@rocket
Bart @ (310) 510-0190. Ham-
mail.com
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 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.
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
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 CONDO. Updated
2 bedroom 1 bath old mammoth/
eagle lodge area. Sleeps 6. Fully
equipped kitchen, wifi, pool, spa,
laundry. Walk to restaurants,
bars, stores, park and trolly.
Winter $150 summer $130 plus
cleaning fee, holiday rates vary,
multiple night discounts. No
pets.Contact Will Nevins 26”B”
(714) 697-2587
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
November 2018 • 59
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
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
NASHVILLE CONDO. Two bed-
room condo, sleeps 6, in Down-
town Nashville. Walking distance
to Broadway St, hockey and NFL
stadium. Contact Wayne, LAFD
@ (805) 796-7863 for availability
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-
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
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.
WANTED
LOOKING FOR A RETIRED
FIREFIGHTER OR INSPECTOR
with high rise experience and a
passion for training. Part time,
$300-$700/day. Mainly So-Cal
area with possiblity of travel to
SF, CO & AZ. Certificate of Fit-
ness preferred, but not required.
Contact Olga @ Sure-Path Solu-
tions to join our fun team! (951)
277-1761 or
olga@surepathsolutions.net

and price. mantic Chalet Family getaway.

VEHICLES
3 bed/2 bath plus loft. Sleeps

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

“#1 Volume Ford Dealer in the world for 20
consecutive years!”
Lincoln / Mercury / Honda / Mazda /
Volvo / Ford / Jaguar / Lotus / Aston
Martin / Spyker / Galpin Auto Sports
For special pricing contact
Terry Miller—Fleet Sales & Leasing
15505 Roscoe Blvd
North Hills CA 91343
818-797-3800 l www.galpin.com
1.800.GO.GALPIN
Camry / Celica / Corolla / Tundra
Tacoma / Sienna / Supra / Solara
11041 Sepulveda Blvd
Mission Hills CA
Ask for Steve Denson—Fleet Mgr
steve@hamertoyota.com
818-365-9621
“Specializing in hassle-free car buying”
Honda - Sales and Leasing
Large Selection of Used Vehicles
6511 Santa Monica Blvd
Hollywood CA
Ask for Dave Erickson­­­­­­­­­
323-466-3251 l Fax: 323-462-0187
DaveE@hondaofhollywood.com

60 • November 2018
 Fire Station 9

Circa 1910. Standing left to right: Moreno, Gardner

Seated left to right: Jordan holding Petie (dog), Hammill, Lt. Tillotson, Capt. Gentry, Criss and Blake

According to Firehouse Magazine’s 2017 National Run Survey, Los Angeles City Fire Station 9 has just been announced the busiest
fire station in the county. We at the Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association are extremely proud of the men and women of the sta-
tion for their dedication to the citizens of Los Angeles. In 2017, Fire Station 9 ran a total of 33,380 calls, a 22% increase from 2015.

Circa 2018. Front L to R: Capt I Galvan, FF Fryer, FF Johnson, FF Coughlin, FF Ramirez, FF Winn, FF/PM Newman
Back L to R: Capt I Clayton, Capt II Kalenga, Eng Martinez, FF/PM Mulligan, FF Rappaport, Eng Clements,
FF/PM Roach, FF Bobadilla, FF/PM Zelaya, A/O Gocke
2 members not pictured (on a call) FF/PM Evison, FF/PM Patrick
November 2018 • 61
Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association
7470 N Figueroa Street
Los Angeles CA 90041-1725