The Los Angeles Firefighter

Official Publication of United Firefighters of Los Angeles City—Local 112, IAFF, AFL-CIO-CLC

VOL. 42, NO. 1 January/February 2004 Major Wildfires in Southern California… Heroics of Firefighters on Display for the Nation An horrific series of major members spent successive days members worked outside of the sion water dropping of LAFD would be folly to allow these wildfires swept across Southern and nights fighting the blazes City during these firestorms, Air Operations. The work of events to fade into memory California during late October, while enduring some of the hundreds more protected Los LAFD pilots, their fleet of hel- without taking some valuable devouring 750,000 acres, most dangerous and difficult Angeles with equal diligence. icopters and the speed and lessons from all that transpired. destroying 3,570 homes, and working conditions imaginable. The LAFD Task Force configu- efficiency of LAFD 4-member In the coming weeks, UFLAC killing dozens of people includ- The unwavering bravery of ration proved to be an engine companies were an will take up issues with Depart- ing Engineer Steven Rucker of LAFD members and of every invaluable asset as dozens of effective combination. Thank- ment management regarding the Novato, California Fire firefighter on the line, and the 200 series engines were staffed fully, the City of Los Angeles proper feeding, rest and rehab Department. At the high-point blood sacrifice of Brother up as engine companies and came through these firestorms for firefighters out on the line of the combined effort about Steven Rucker, once again deployed in City firehouses. At without loosing a single build- for multiple days. We also 9,000 firefighters from across reminded an entire nation of the one point the Simi Fire threat- ing to the flames. intend to address continuing the state and country worked character and commitment of ened to take homes and problems surrounding the prop- side by side on the firelines. firefighters everywhere. businesses within Los Angeles Union to address er use of recall procedures Altogether, the LAFD proudly as it barreled over hillsides and problems associated during emergencies. While committed 75 engine compa- LAFD crews on the down upon the Northwest Val- with LAFD policies there was confusion and ambi- nies and 15 Battalion command ground supported by ley community of Porter There is much to be proud of guity regarding holdovers and teams to several fires burning LAFD helicopter pilots Ranch. As the battle raged, regarding LAFD operations recall procedures everywhere, outside of Los Angeles City kept wildfires at bay LAFD crews on the ground during the course of these epic in no place was the situation limits. Hundreds of Local 112 While hundreds of Local 112 were supported by the preci- fires. But at the same time, it Continued on page 8 UFLAC and City Reach Agreement on New Contract by Mike McOsker and Salary Adjustment - gram Ð Increase of $20,000 This bonus will be flat rated, ard Pay bonus. Both of these Jim Featherstone 7/1/03 2% increase per year for fiscal year 03/04, based on the pay of a fully paid bonuses are also flat-rated, Negotiating Team Co-Chairs 7/1/04 3% increase then increases of 7% and 7% Firefighter III with 10 years of based on the pay of a fully paid After seven long months of 7/1/05 4% increase for FY 04/05 and FY 05/06 longevity. Firefighter III with 10 years bargaining your Negotiating respectively. This will result in Urban Search and Rescue longevity. Team and the City have Health insurance subsidy - a funding level in FY 05/06 of Task Forces and the USAR Special Duty bonus (effec- reached a tentative agreement 7/1/03 $55 per month increase $177, 230. Company (effective 7/1/04) - tive 7/1/04) Ð Special Duty on a new three-year Contract. 7/1/04 $50 per month increase In addition, the City agreed USAR Company members will members who are assigned to As of this writing, ratification 7/1/05 an increase not to to bonus increases for certain get an increase from their cur- LAFD Incident Management meetings have been scheduled exceed the civilian programs and to the establish- rent Assignment Pay bonus of Teams will receive a 2.75% for December 22 and 23 at the increase of 1/1/05 ment of a first time bonus for $0.75 per hour to a full time bonus. Although it is non-pen- UFLAC hall. The major provi- certain Special Duty members: 2.75% Hazard Pay bonus. sion based, we believe this to sions and significant changes Uniform allowance Ð Hazardous Materials Task USAR Task Force members be a significant breakthrough in the new Contract include the increases of $100, $25, and $25 Forces (effective 7/1/04) - an will get an increase from their because it is the first ever bonus following: per year, effective 7/1/03, increase from 2.75% Hazard $0.75 hourly currently (restrict- secured on a broad basis for Term Ð July 1, 2003 through 7/1/04 and 7/1/05, respectively. Pay to 5.5% Hazard Pay for all ed to time spent on USAR inci- Special Duty members in our June 30, 2006. Employee Assistance Pro- members assigned to HMTF’s. dents) to a full time 2.75% Haz- Continued on page 5 In This Issue . . . Article ...... Page(s) Major Wildfires in Southern California ...... 1, 8-11 UFLAC Ð City Reach Agreement on Contract ...... 1, 5 UFLAC Stewards ...... 2 Report from the President ...... 3 2003 Income Tax Information ...... 4 Update on Direct Reimbursement Dental Plan ...... 4 Children’s Scholarship Program...... 5 Your Health Ð Recognizing the Signs of Stroke ...... 12 Drinking in the Firehouse Ð A National Embarrassment...... 13 UFLAC Holiday Open House Ð A Pictorial...... 14 IAFF Award Winners ...... 14 Grieving Behind the Badge Ð Life Altering Events ...... 15 LAFD-LACOFD-LAPD-LASD Boxing ...... 16 The Los Angeles Firefighter 1571 Beverly Boulevard PERIODICAL Postage Paid Los Angeles, California 90026 at (#ISSN01907573) Los Angeles, CA January/February, 2004

This is the fire coming up the mountain on the first night. …the “Old Fire” took out 400 homes in San Bernardino and 3 days later took out another 350 homes near Lake Arrowhead. More photos and fire coverage on pages 8-11. Photo and information by Mike Meadows, CFPA Page 2 Los Angeles Firefighter January/February 2004

UFLAC Stewards Spend Three Days UFLAC 2002-2004 Executive Board UFLAC 2002-2004 Executive Board in Palm Springs PRESIDENT Patrick S. McOsker, Engineer...... UFLAC Office gaining” and “Planning and might be expected of them in SECRETARY Implementation of a Political their valuable and very impor- Don R. Forrest, Inspector I ...... UFLAC Office Campaign”. All of us, includ- tant role as Union Stewards. FIRST VICE PRESIDENT ing the Stewards, spent three Our Steward membership Michael K. McOsker, Engineer...... UFLAC Office all-day sessions learning valu- can look to the future for more SECOND VICE PRESIDENT able information, which will of these types of summits so Stephen E. Norris, Captain II...... Fire Station 63-B allow us to better represent our that we can remain progressive TREASURER membership. It was also was an as a Union. Whenever possible, Brian K. Hishinuma, Captain II...... Fire Station 38-C excellent venue for our Stew- your Union Board will make DIRECTOR ards to “get their feet wet” in every effort to send all interest- Randy W. Beaty, Captain II ...... Fire Station 60-B the all-important Union opera- ed Stewards to these vital train- James G. Featherstone, Captain II, . . . . Fire Station 64-A tions. ing exercises. Lawrence D. Fierro, Firefighter III . . . . Fire Station 114-B Those Stewards that attended In closing, anyone interested Paul Gilbrook, Apparatus Operator . . . . Fire Station 47-B said that it was an excellent in making the commitment of Ted Nonini, Firefighter III ...... Fire Station 70-C learning experience which gave becoming a Union Steward for EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE DIRECTOR them some expertise into what the UFLAC membership and Jerry Brakeman, Retired Firefighter by Ted Nonini a Union is all about and what Continued on page 5 Attendant...... UFLAC Office Director EDITOR The continued growth and Jim Perry, Retired Fire Captain II...... UFLAC Office success of UFLAC’s Steward’s Station Stewards Program was evident this past Banks, Michelle ...... FS-QIS November when over twenty Castro, Joe ...... FS-35-C Station Stewards attended the Carpenter, Gary ...... High Rise Unit IAFF Affiliate Leadership Chan, Reuben ...... FS-64-A WESTERN LABOR COMMUNICATIONS ASSOCIATION Training Summit in Palm Coleman, Joe ...... FS-47-C Springs. Crandall, Michael ...... FS-105-A From November 16th Delgado, Ray ...... FS- 42-B through November 18th, the Donato, John ...... FS-112-C IAFF conducted an Affiliate Fabela, Dave ...... FS-27-A Leadership Training Summit Fletcher, Craig ...... FS-109-C at the Riviera Hotel in Palm Gibson, Jim ...... FS-6-A Springs, California. The sum- Haro, Ray ...... FS-23-A mit offered three days of class- Hurtado, Francisco...... FS-70-C es to union leaders and our James, George ...... OCD-C These emblems on the masthead of any labor publication certifies that the publi- cation is a member in good standing of the International Labor Communications Stewards, which were extreme- Jaminal, Adelino ...... FS-68-A Association and is bound to observe the ILCA Code of Ethics ly beneficial to all of us. Just, James A...... FS-69-A Pat McOsker, Paul Gilbrook, Kennedy, Cameron ...... FS-15-A IAFF and AFL-CIO affiliates have prior approval to reprint or excerpt articles in myself and Brian Hishinuma Kennington, Tom ...... FS-3-C the Los Angeles Firefighter — Please include credit line. who also taught a class and Note: Photos and cartoons may not be reprinted without the expressed written Kleckner, Mark ...... FS-40-C permission of the photographer or artist. several Stewards took part in Madrigal, Greg ...... FS-37-C this valuable training exercise. Merrel, Brett ...... FS-4-A The Los Angeles Firefighter In attendance were over six Molina, Alexander ...... OCD-A (ISSN #0190-7573) hundred union leaders from Local 112, IAFF, AFL-CIO-CLC Myers, Ron ...... FS-96-A Official Publication of United Firefighters of Los Angeles City is fire departments all over the Ricardo Najera ...... FS-89-B Published Bi-Monthly country, including Canada. Oropeza, Daniel ...... FS-1-C Periodical Postage paid at Los Angeles, CA This gave our Stewards the Pimentle, Dave ...... FS-43-B Known Office of Publication is opportunity to interact with Powell, Mathew ...... FS-85-B United Firefighters of Los Angeles City, other union leaders. 1571 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, Pumphrey, Robert ...... FS-34-C California 90026-5798 The classes offered included Rainey, Tom F...... S-80-C POSTMASTER: Send Address Changes to The Los Angeles Firefighter varied topics, from “What is a Ramsey, Bill ...... FS-74-A 1571 Beverly Blvd. Grievance” to “Preparing for Raya, David ...... FS-44-B Los Angeles, CA 90026-5798 Negotiations: Collective Bar- Rivas, Richard...... FS-25-B Union Office Phone Numbers Riley, Bryan ...... FS-12-C Administration: Ruffino, Bob ...... FS-74-C (213) 895-4006 - (213) 485-2091 - Toll Free (800) 252-8352 If You See Ruvalcaba, Leonard ...... FS -17-C Benefits: Semerjian, Paul ...... FS-105-C (213) 895-4990 An Error… Sifuentes, David...... FS-1-B Code-a-phone: Smith, Doak ...... FS-14-A (213) 485-2090 The Los Angeles Firefighter Sullivan, John ...... FS-92-A FAX: (213) 250-5678 strives to maintain accuracy Souter, Scott ...... FS-9-C EAP Office: (213) 895-0910 or (800) 252-8352 and fairness in all stories, Sutliff, Steve ...... FS-98-C EAP FAX: (213) 481-1038 graphics, photographs and Teeter, Jason ...... FS-60-B EAP 24 Hr. Help Line other copy that appears in our Torres, Lou ...... FS-20-C Answering Service: (213) 250-1212 union newspaper. It is our prac- Uglesich, Michael ...... Harbor Industrial Unit Affiliations tice to correct errors in the Williamson, James ...... FS-4-B International Assn. of Fire Fighters, AFL-CIO-CLC issue immediately following California Professional Fire Fighters, AFL-CIO-CLC their discovery. January and February L.A. County Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO-CLC If you have a correction or Station Stewards Meetings California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO-CLC clarification request, please call American Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO-CLC Time: 7:30 a.m. International Labor Communications Association, AFL-CIO-CLC the UFLAC office at 800-252- Western Labor Communications Association, AFL-CIO-CLC 8352 or email the editor: Prior to Monthly Membership Meetings [email protected] Los Angeles Firefighter Newspaper Staff Jim Perry-Editor [email protected] Paramedic Committee Member of the Communications Workers of America CWA Local 9400, Southern California Newspaper Guild, AFL-CIO-CLC General Membership Meeting Members Harry Carter, Ph.D - Staff Writer Aaron Espy - Staff Writer January 21, 2003, “A” Shift, 0900 Hours David Pimentle Peggy Sweeney Rainone - Staff Writer Jerry Smith - Staff Writer Committee Chair. FS-43-B Contributing Photographers Location Pending Bill Ramsey . . . . FS-74-A Ross Benson, CFPA Brian Litt, CFPA Dave Barnes . . . . FS-86-C Bonnie Burrow Juan Guerra, Valley News Service Isaac Burks, LAFD Rick McClure, LAFD Mike Brown . . . . FS-84-A Gene Blevins, CFPA Allison Meadows February 18, 2003, “B” Shift, 0900 Hours Cedrick Cleveland. FS-38-B Brian Haimer, CFPA Mike Meadows, CFPA Ray Delgado. . . . FS-42-B Bill Hartenstein, CFPA Jeff Miller, CFPA UFLAC-Union Offices Chris Jensen, CFPA Martin Nate Rawner, CFPA Jim Gibson...... FS-6-A Gavin Kaufman Boris Yaro 1571 Beverly Blvd. Aaron Mungary. FS-47-C Note: CFPA denotes membership in the Los Angeles Dave Raya . . . . . FS-44-B California Fire Photographers Association Paul Semerjian FS-105-C Refreshments and free parking Available. Stacy Taylor . . . . FS-27-C Lou Torres . . . . . FS-20-C This union newspaper is printed by a union printer on union-made recycled paper. January/February 2004 Los Angeles Firefighter Page 3 ReportReport fromfrom thethe PresidentPresident

Photo by Joe Ortiz, LAFD-HS Pat McOsker An Injury to One is an Injury to All — Local 112 Supports Union Grocery Store Workers —

It takes time to put together lines. I want to thank each of cess. Martin Ludlow and would not have achieved the tinued support and union soli- the best union newspaper in the you for the daily sacrifices Miguel Contreras cheered the same degree of success. I per- darity. land. By the time you read this you’ve made in support of crowds at store after store with sonally wish to thank the entire Fraternally, article your Christmas tree will union grocery store workers. their upbeat message. LA City Negotiating Team and my fel- probably be out by the curb Ironically, the supermarket Councilmembers Antonio Vil- low Executive Board Members waiting for the trash man, but chains can afford to maintain laraigosa, Dennis Zine and for a job well done, and to as I’m writing it’s only just the fair pay and benefits for their Janice Hahn showed up at vari- thank each of you for your con- night before Thanksgiving. But employees much better than ous locations in Los Angeles Thanksgiving, especially this our boss can. The parent corpo- and spoke beautifully as well. year, is probably the appropri- rations that own these stores Numerous other elected offi- ate time and mindset for have made record profits over cials and union leaders met us writing and reading this partic- the past 10 years, and during at the supermarkets to offer ular issue of our paper. Earlier that time CEO’s and Boards of their support. Among them tonight (November 26th) Mike Directors have rewarded them- were City Controller Laura McOsker and Jim Featherstone selves handsomely with huge Chick, and California State telephoned me with some news raises and dividend payouts. Legislators Judy Chu, Alan that I had been eagerly await- Apparently it hasn’t been Lowenthal, Mark Ridley- ing. After 7 months of hard enough for them. Now they Thomas, Richard Alarcon, work, the UFLAC Negotiating want Wal-Mart profits, and just Martha Escutia, Betty Kar- Team has reached a tentative like Wal-Mart they expect nette, Jerome Horton, and agreement on a new 3-year those profits to come on the Gloria Romero. We left the contract. An explanation of the backs of their employees. picket line at the conclusion of details of this agreement can be each rally feeling as rejuvenat- found in an article by Mike and $25 Gelson’s gift certifi- ed as the workers that we had Jim on the front page of this cates to striking and come to cheer up. issue. What you won’t see in locked-out UFCW workers their article though, is any This past weekend (Saturday Solidarity with UFCW boastful comparison of our and Sunday before Thanksgiv- Our pre-Thanksgiving show good fortune at the table to the ing) Local 112 took advantage of solidarity with UFCW and recent fortunes of so many of of an opportunity to spread the friends of labor was more our brothers and sisters else- some much needed holiday than just mere symbolism. where in organized labor. cheer to folks who had been on There is a real benefit for all of those picket lines for 6 long us when unions stand together …glad to be union weeks. Our good friends, LA to support and protect one firefighters City Councilman Martin Lud- another. LAFD firefighters Mike and Jim know, and all low and Miguel Contrerras of must never take for granted the of us here at UFLAC know, just the County Federation of many things that have been how lucky we are to be union Labor, organized a giveaway of won by the exercise of union firefighters in Los Angeles $25 Gelson’s gift certificates to power and solidarity. We owe right now. It’s no secret that striking and locked-out UFCW all of the improvements that California is dealing with a workers. They wanted to offer have been made over the last 40 severe budget crisis that affects monetary support and to boost years in our pay, benefits, and Los Angeles and every other moral as well. Martin Ludlow health and safety protections to municipality in the state. Some came up with the idea for a our union movement. Sadly cities in California have “Turkey Express” ride from though, we seem to be at a already closed firehouses, rene- store to store to hand out the point in time where many gotiated contracts or laid-off certificates, and to hold upbeat among us don’t know or have firefighters because of their rallies and serve pumpkin pie forgotten just how invaluable budget problems. Here in LA, and hot coffee to the picketers. our right to organize and bar- local politicians are faced with Local 112 Board Members gain collectively is. a projected shortfall that some caught wind of his plan at the say could grow as high as $200 last minute, and we stepped-in Thanks to our Negotiating million this fiscal year. Yet in to help. Team and Board spite of all this bad news, as we As I wrote above, LAFD fire- negotiated our contract we had UFLAC joins “Turkey fighters really do have an awful strong political support, from Express” lot to be thankful for these start to finish, for fair pay and UFLAC rented the motor days. I can assure you though, benefits increases for LAFD home, had a temporary sound that our tentative contract firefighters over the next 3 system put on the roof, and agreement didn’t just fall into years. bought all of the gas for the our laps. Your Negotiating journey. It was my honor to Team worked many long hard …support of union gro- drive the “Turkey Express” hours formulating, making and cery store workers both days, and to join with all defending our proposals, and I only hope that our UFCW the dignitaries in addressing wading through many mine- brothers and sisters will even- the crowds at each stop. fields laid by management. At tually fare as well in their Believe it or not, I think many the same time your Union negotiations. I know that of the picketers enjoyed hear- spent many more hours educat- you’re all aware of the pro- ing praise and encouragement ing and lobbying the City longed strike and lockout at from a union firefighter almost Council and the EERC on the many Southern California as much as hearing it from the merits of specific proposals. I supermarkets, because I’ve many inspiring speakers that have no doubt that without both watched with pride how well were present at each location. efforts (our work at the table as you have honored the picket The rallies were a huge suc- well as our political effort) we More photos on page 7. Page 4 Los Angeles Firefighter January/February 2004

Inconsistent-arbitrary decisions by management… 2003 Income Tax Information

Discipline - Gold vs. Silver ACTIVE MEMBERS

Double standard excuse about every case being DUES 862.56 Now I don’t sit in the Opera- different, but we at UFLAC are DUES WITH PAC 0.00 tion Commander’s chair to tired of representing members make these decisions, but it has that elected us to help them, UFLAC UNITED CONCORDIA FLEX DENTAL PLAN long been my belief that a true knowing that the deck is Member only 0.00 double standard applies con- stacked against them from the Two-Party Enriched 264.00 cerning discipline to members get-go. Member with Dependent Enriched 744.00 depending on the color of their badge. Obviously, the “we UFLAC is once again UFLAC DIRECT REIMBURSEMENT DENTAL PLAN hold officers to a higher stan- calling upon the honor- Member only 0.00 dard” does not apply to Chief able Board of Fire Com- Two-Party 326.50 Officers. missioners to look into Three or more 811.50 Again, I don’t have all the the questionable by Steve Norris, facts pertinent to every case application of discipline PREPAID PLANS Director I’m going to mention but I to our members GOLDEN WEST DENTAL The department recently dis- think any reasonable person How sad it is to read about so Member only 0.00 tributed a departmental bulletin might see it my way. See chart many members of the depart- Family 0.00 on the subject of discipline. It below. ment who allegedly committed addressed the violations and some sort of violation of the UNITED CONCORDIA PLUS DENTAL the discipline administered to …and it’s continuing Rules and Regulations. I’d Member only 0.00 members of the department for Currently there are reports of rather be reading a list of all of Family 0.00 the year’s 1998-2001. I hope as many as 5 Chief Officers our members who have everyone takes the time to read who during the recent brush received an F-79 (Commenda- BLUE CROSS (CaliforniaCare) and reflect on these infractions fires acted in what many would tion). Oh, I forgot, the depart- Member only 0.00 and the punishment handed out perceive as “conduct unbecom- ment doesn’t do that; they only Member and one 0.00 by the department. ing an officer” and yet I’m told punish. Maybe it’s time they Member and two or more 424.50 they might be receiving an F- tried some praise. It could go a Abuse of administrative 1104 reprimand. long way. BLUE CROSS PPO (Prudent Buyer) discipline I wonder if the standard lan- Management will soon be Member only 745.50 Shortly thereafter, the guage of “this does not pre- replacing the Operations Com- Member and one 2293.50 Bureau of Emergency Service clude further discipline com- mander and I hope his sense of Member and two or more 3637.50 distributed a letter to “All Offi- mensurate with department equality in discipline is of para- cers” concerning leadership policy” will be added to the mount consideration. I’m tired RETIRED MEMBERS and responsibility. This letter body on the F-1104’s? Yeah of the “holier than thou” atti- Retired members do not pay dues reads like a narrative descrip- right! tude exhibited by the adminis- tion of the Rules and Regula- Additionally, there are many tration, when in fact they UFLAC UNITED CONCORDIA FLEX DENTAL PLAN tions (minus the appropriate complaints received at UFLAC should lead by example. They Member only 600.00 numbered sections). In reading concerning how many Chief should create an atmosphere in Two-Party Enriched 960.00 this document I was wonder- Officer’s management style is this department that discipline, Member with Dependent Enriched 1440.00 ing, to what officers it was one of “intimidation and fear” only when absolutely neces- directed? Based on the penal- and when brought to manage- sary, will be administered fair- UFLAC DIRECT REIMBURSEMENT DENTAL ties cited in the departmental ment’s’ attention they look the ly and evenly across the board. Member only 627.00 bulletin and in some more other way. Why is that? Let’s end the arrogant and Two-Party 1025.00 recent cases, it is quite apparent These are just a few exam- heavy-handed application of Three or more 1515.00 that the gold badges are held to ples of the discrepancies in dis- punishment currently handed a much more lenient standard cipline that has been adminis- to the silver badges and hold all PREPAID PLANS and are disciplined with a sig- tered by the department over the badges to an equal standard GOLDEN WEST DENTAL nificantly reduced penalty than the last couple of years. I know of discipline. Member only 240.00 the department members who management will defend their Thanks for listening and be Two-Party 240.00 wear the silver badge. position. The same lame safe out there. Family 240.00

UNITED CONCORDIA PLUS DENTAL Case #1. Firefighter AWOL (1st offense) 8 days off Member only 384.00 Batt. Chief AWOL (1st offense) Reprimand Family 720.00

Case #2. Capt. II Did not do/forward BLUE CROSS (CaliforniaCare) Performance Evaluations 4 days off Member only 2968.00 Batt. Chief Did not forward Member and one 5752.00 critical reports Nothing Member and two or more 7147.00

Case #3. Capt. II Failure to report minor t/a 2 days off BLUE CROSS PPO (Prudent Buyer) Batt. Chief Failure to report minor t/a Member only 4617.00 and multiple verbal/hostile Member and one 8993.00 work environment complaints Reprimand Member and two or more 10329.00

Case #4. Firefighter Horseplay/untruthful/phys.aggressive 10 days off If you are a retired member receiving a City health and dental Batt.Chief Striking a subordinate 12 hours off subsidy, then you will need to adjust the above figures by the subsidy amount you have received. In this case, you may call Case #5. Capt. I Eating lunch out of district Board of Rights the UFLAC Benefits office at (213) 977-9014 or write for the Batt. Chief Multiple infractions of eating out of district Nothing correct rates. Update on Direct Reimbursement Dental Plan bursement Dental Insur- ment of claims were neces- provide his Dental license your claims are above the ance Plan has been sary to protect and assure number, Tax I.D. #, and be standard and customary rates providing outstanding ben- the longevity of the plan. qualified in CPR. This for your area based on Amer- efits to our members for An audit of the Direct requirement is the industry ican Dental Association over ten years. The plan Reimbursement plan was standard. Claim forms will standard. This information has undergone changes in conducted along with the change and will require will assure that you be get- benefits and is currently other benefit plans in the additional information to ting the maximum benefits closed to new enrollee’s. past months. The audit include an explanation of entitled. This action was necessary revealed that there were the care provided. The The revisions were neces- to stabilize and continue to approximately 8,000 Den- information is the standard sary to make sure that you provide the best Dental tists in the database. Claims information required by receive dental care from a Plans offered to Firefight- were processed without other insurance plans and qualified dentist. You will ers. Several changes will much verification of care many of the dentists are be getting a new packet by Brian Hishinuma take place next year in the provided or who provided currently providing the which will include new Treasurer management of claims. the care. Early next year information. claim forms and Dentist UFLAC’s Direct Reim- Revisions to the manage- your Dentist will need to You will be notified when verification information. January/February 2004 Los Angeles Firefighter Page 5 UFLAC and City Reach Agreement on New Contract

Continued from page 1 age work week of our Platoon small work schedules which us into a Letter of Agreement Duty members. Our position average less than 56 hours which requires further Collec- at the table was backed up by per week. In fact, the nation- tive Bargaining on this propos- sustained face to face lobby- al average for career profes- al during the term of the Con- ing by the UFLAC President sional Firefighters is about 49 tract. We are confident of ulti- and several appearances hours per week. mate success in this area. before the City Council and Armed with the facts, we We would like to thank the the EERC by the President proposed a system of days off members of your Negotiating and the Negotiating Team co- which would function in the Team - Steve Norris, Jim chairs. We were also gener- same way as “holidays” Galvin, Ed Riveros, Paul ously assisted by the IAFF (optional days off) and would Gilbrook, Larry Fierro, Mike who provided us with reams not effect the platoon duty Uglesich, Ted Nonini, Lou Tor- of statistical documents and schedule. In the end, and large- res, Dave Spence, George responded promptly to our ly due to the fiscal realities in James, Jim Hynes and Carey Jim Featherstone frequent requests for more. both Los Angeles and the State Steiner Ð for the sacrifice of Director We were able to clearly of California, we did not suc- their valuable off-duty time and Mike McOsker Your Negotiating Team establish that Firefighters ceed at this time. We did, how- for their real commitment to First Vice-President made a very determined throughout the USA - on 24 ever, build considerable politi- the welfare of their Brothers effort to advance UFLAC’s hour Platoon Duty - in cal support for the concept. As and Sisters. We’ll see you at the Bargaining Unit. proposal to reduce the aver- scores of cities large and a result, the City entered with ratification meetings. UFLAC Stewards Spend Three Days in Palm Springs

Continued from page 2 being able to partake in these important activities, as well as fun, should contact the Union office. The Stewards meet once a month, at 7:30 a.m. prior to the General Membership meet- ing, which is usually the last payday of every month. Be safe out there.

Children’s Scholarship Program 2004

We are again very pleased to study at an accredited two or scholarship will be awarded). April 1, 2004. Applications announce a special Children’s four year college, university, or Previous recipients are not eli- will not be sent or received via Scholarship Program that vocational-technical school. gible and need not apply. fax. Only original applications will be donated by our Long Applicants must also have a 3.0 will be accepted. The deadline Term Disability insurance plan grade point average on a 4.0 Applicants must be the child for application requests is administrators, California scale. (Three scholarships will of a CAPF member who has March 25, 2004. Administration Insurance be awarded.) been a member for a minimum This is a valuable opportuni- Services, Inc. of one year prior to April 1, ty to provide your children with Category two applicants 2004. scholarship money in order to Four scholarships will be must be sophomores or juniors Scholarship distribution will help them attain their higher given in two categories, 3 in college enrolled in a full- consist of $2,000 - four awards education goals! Act now. in category one, and 1 in time course of study at an of $500 each. category two accredited college, university Please call California Available only to the or vocational-technical school. Administration Insurance children of members in Category one applicants Applicants must have main- Services, Inc., toll-free at the California Association must be high school seniors tained a 3.0 grade point aver- (800) 832-7333 and request an of Professional who are enrolled or planning to age during the first two years of application, which must be Firefighters enroll in a full-time course of college on a 4.0 scale. (One completed and postmarked by EAP Meeting Dates

Dr. Garrett O’Connor’s Councilmember’s Receive Firefighting Certificates Monthly Training 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. City Councilmember’s Mar- in San Francisco, CA. For the tin Ludlow and Dennis Zine full story and photos see The January 8 successfully completed the Los Angeles Firefighter, (Thursday - A Shift) IAFF’s Fire Ops. 101 Training November/December 2003. Subject: Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions

February 12 (Thursday - C Shift) Subject: Culture Diversity in Addiction Recovery

Where: United Firefighters Union Office Upstairs 1571 Beverly Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90026

Information: (213) 895-0910 or the Union Website: www.uflac.org

Refreshments and Free Parking provided UFLAC President Pat McOsker, left, presents Certificate to UFLAC President Pat McOsker, left, presents City Councilman Martin Ludlow. Certificate to City Councilman Dennis Zine. Page 6 Los Angeles Firefighter January/February 2004

Here we go again… Nicholas Reiner reciting this poem Fight the Good Fight that he composed and read at the sonable to think that this list fering a fatal incident three 59th Annual LAFD might have served as a driving times greater than for all work- Memorial Service force to make UFLAC settle ers.” A day’s wages for on October 9, quickly rather than face the performing a dangerous job is 2003. Eric is the threat of a reduction in over- an appropriate response. son of Paramedic time. What easier way to do Firefighters make money the Eric F. Reiner who that than with a list of question- old fashioned way…”they earn lost his life in the able data. it”. The overtime article was tragic crash of A representative from the published just as strike teams LAFD Fire 3 Heli- Controllers office said that the were leaving Los Angeles to copter on March DWP payroll system and the fight one of the largest brush 23, 1998. City Controller’s payroll sys- fires in modern history. Our tem were not interconnected so members worked to protect Photo by the DWP information was not lives, homes and property and, Mark Peters, by Randy W. Beaty readily retrievable. When asked all the while, they risked their LAFD Photo Video Director if the information could have own personal safety to get the Sevices An article appeared in a local been gathered and combined in job done. One firefighter lost newspaper on October 25th a manner that would have accu- his life. Others lost their own entitled, “Overtime at L.A. Fire rately listed the city’s top 100 homes. No one was able to The Eternal Scar Department is Questioned”. wage earners in 2002, the return home to their loved ones This article has, in some ways, spokesman said it could have because working on a strike by Nicholas Reiner galvanized Los Angeles Fire- been done. team during a campaign fire fighters in a call to action. An does not allow it. March 23rd, an ordinary day, just one to forget. analytical look to the article Questions Raised Families had to wait. Duty Maybe for you, but for me, not yet. should help identify some Predictably, the list of the called and firefighters recurring issues that we can city’s 100 top wage earners answered. And during that I was changed that morning, changed in my soul and my heart, confront in a manner that will raised several questions by city entire time they were paid A morning for me that will stand apart. help solidify our good standing officials including whether the overtime for the hours they in the community. First, let’s city has enough firefighters and worked. They always will be. My dad died that day doing what he did best breakdown the information paramedics. That is always a We need anyone who criticizes Saving lives without much rest. presented in the article and good question. “Additionally, our overtime earnings to under- examine what we can do to some wondered whether the stand that. The helicopter- the cradle of life had rudder failure and change it. city should better regulate started to descend. overtime so that fatigue and Anticipate this Argument The girl in the chopper dying, my dad and others gave a Flawed article stress do not affect those work- It was difficult to ascertain hand to lend. The core of the article er’s performance”. exactly of who asked for the revolved around a list of the That question introduces a list, why it was requested, how The aircraft was lost, my dad lost with it. City’s top 100 wage-earners in degree of speculation by it was released to the media, I was thunderstruck, shocked, and utterly sad 2002 and their respective onlookers that we should be etc. Fire and Union officials That my life had taken this turn because of the loss of my dad. Departments. The list was pre- prepared to engage. Keep in routinely are left to come pared by the Controller’s mind that the only thing offi- behind and do damage control I didn’t know what to think, or say Office and given the Adminis- cials were looking at was a list each time this information is I experienced nothing but sadness that horrible day. trative Office and later to the of names and salaries. It was made public. This has become media. But the list was flawed simply a list. But that did not an annual exercise and we I was left without a father to guide me on my way. creating an imbalanced presen- stop readers from speculating. need not be surprised any Left without a leader, I began to sway. tation of information. longer. No firefighters or Limited research inspectors on that list did any- Back and forth with a question I had, Questionable reporting… Medical Liaison was never thing wrong and yet we were Why did God choose to take my dad? 56 members of our Fire consulted for the article. If they called upon to explain our- Department were on that list, had they would have confirmed selves. Why? Why me, why him, why oh why? mostly command staff and that there are no stress claims What would my life be like if he was here, alive? chiefs but fifteen firefighters pending by employees who It’s Up to You and inspectors were included. have earned excessive over- It is no secret that Los Ange- How would I have been, what would I have done? Therein lays the concern. The time. Secondly, the Department les Firefighters are not even Would I have been a good or bad son? writer of the article explained operates hiring with compre- amongst the top paid in the that the reason firefighters and hensive written guidelines and State. Yet the LAFD’s level of I’ll never know, because I can’t change the past. inspectors were on the list was, automated computer assistance professionalism is unsurpassed This is why my memories and prayers must last. “thanks to hefty overtime which is continually refined to in the Fire Service. The citizens checks that can eclipse their help ensure fairness in hiring. of Los Angeles are getting a One of his favorite quotes was, “Always take the high road.” salaries…” He went on to point great value and our job is to Well, when I think of him I ponder this quote, out that those 15 all earned The Reasons We have make certain they know it. more than the Mayor of Los Overtime There should be no shame And I think that if he died to save Angeles whose salary was One chief interviewed said, in receiving compensation. It Then I can stand up and be brave. $179,700. “That hiring more firefighters is important for us to be The writer said that the would reduce the amount of ready to fight the good fight Face my fears, and take up my crosses Department of Water and overtime required but that it and justify our earnings when Accept hardship, and deal with my losses. Power employees had been was less expensive to use an necessary. Remember to excluded from the list. This existing firefighter working thank the public for our jobs. I am scarred forever because he died deliberate omission requires overtime than to train and If our overtime earnings are Unable to forget what is contained inside. that we stop and reflect for a employ a new worker”. questioned it is time to let the moment. Is it reasonable to con- Adding to that thought, public know what, how and This wound, once open and throbbing without control, clude that the DWP exclusion UFLAC President Pat why we do what we do. All of Now silent, numbed, a deep meaningful hole. may have been done intention- McOsker said that when fire- us are the guardians of public ally to make room on the list for fighters work overtime it is in trust and each of us has a Eternally present, once only pain, firefighters and inspectors? response to the Department duty to defend. Who, better Now death gives way to hopeful gain. Maybe, but that is only conjec- requesting that members do so. than firefighters to make the ture. Confirming the origin, Firefighters willing to work case for the compensation we A tear, a smothered cry, anguish undenied, purpose and design of the list overtime help to reduce and/or receive? Find here a knowing, a caring and warmth supplied. proved to be a difficult task. But eliminate the need to assign- just try to imagine. hire individuals. Firefighters Earn The day is gone, the scar will stay UFLAC officials were Their Wages His courage, now mine, will lead the way. actively negotiating a contract Be Proud of What The article pointed out that 15 for wages and benefits. If it was You Earn firefighters and inspectors Editor’s note: someone’s intention to disrupt Firefighters are correctly earned more last year than Nicholas Reiner is a sophomore student at St. John Bosco that process and make firefight- compensated for the truly dan- Mayor James Hahn. The fact is High School in Bellflower. He is currently maintaining a 4.0 ers look greedy in the public gerous work they do. David that 15 firefighters and inspec- GPA, is the Sophomore Class President and is a part of the eye, some might have mistak- Peterson wrote in his article, tors simply worked extremely school soccer program. Nic’s ultimate goal in life is to major enly believed it could have Firefighting is Risky Business, hard for their money and that in journalism (sports preferably) and someday write for a weakened our support in City “It was reported that police and was accurately reflected in the major newspaper. Council. It might also be rea- firefighters endure a risk of suf- list. January/February 2004 Los Angeles Firefighter Page 7 Local 112 Supports Union Hosts… Union Grocery Pancake Breakfast Store Workers

Continued from page 3

UFLAC hosted a pancake breakfast in Councilmember Jan Perry’s Council District which raised money for the Ralph Bunche Foundation that benefits disadvantaged youth. Task Force 14 stopped by to lend a hand. Page 8 Los Angeles Firefighter January/February 2004 Major Wildfires in Southern California Heroics of Firefighters on Display for the Nation

Continued from page 1 lic virtually non-stop. The City Council Honors over the preceding 2 weeks. as well. He thanked the more severe and dangerous than number and nature of these Firefighters Councilpersons Dennis Zine, Council and reminded all in it was down below ground in the calls creates a tremendous On November 5th, shortly Martin Ludlow and Cindy attendance that the thoughts Operations Control Division stress on the employees. Work- after the last of the Southern Mischioski took the opportu- and prayers of firefighters (the LAFD dispatch center). ing conditions at OCD have California wildfires came nity to shower the 50 or so everywhere are with those deteriorated to the point that under control, the Los Ange- Local 112 members present who lost homes and loved OCD Dispatchers experienced Dispatchers are les City Council honored with some beautifully stated ones, and that firefighters improperly held at work reluctantly leaving for greener LAFD firefighters at City and much appreciated praise will never forget the ultimate For several days during the pastures faster than the Depart- Hall with the presentation of and admiration. UFLAC price paid by our beloved height of the fires, off-going ment can attract volunteers for a resolution and plaque President Pat McOsker brother Steven Rucker. May OCD Dispatchers were OCD training. Things have got- memorializing our service approached the microphone he forever rest in peace. improperly held over en masse. ten so bad that management Dispatchers whom had finished has resorted to drafting unwill- full 24-hour shifts, and then ing field firefighters to fill been properly relieved by OCD training classes. In the oncoming co-workers, were mean time, there aren’t enough not allowed to go home. qualified people to fill unantic- Instead, supervisors ordered ipated Dispatcher vacancies in them to remain on duty beyond the normal way. their paid hours. This unilateral action by management was Union calls for more OCD unfair to some of its most ded- Dispatchers icated employees. It was also a UFLAC recently responded knee-jerk reaction to what has to this situation by calling for become a critical staffing short- more Dispatcher positions at age at OCD. OCD. Our appeal to the Fire Commission resulted in a mid- Crisis facing OCD year budget request by the Dispatchers Department for 9 more posi- While the OCD workload has tions. If the City is unwilling or tripled over the past 25 years, unable to grant that request in the number of assigned Dis- the remaining months of the patchers has actually current fiscal year, UFLAC decreased. As a result, Dis- will make those additional UFLAC President Pat McOsker acknowledges the City Council after they honored Firefight- patchers sitting at consoles are positions the top priority for ers for their work during the Southland Wildfires. now taking calls from the pub- next year’s budget. Photo by Ron Butcher, City Council Photographer In Memoriam… Message from an Engineer Steven Rucker FDNY Brother Brother Jim, one else.... 1965-2003 I can’t tell you how much I Unfortunately, it didn’t hurt for our Brothers who are escape my notice, half a world standing up tall against that away, that you are already wife and 2 children. A trust rett Smith is 28 years old and horrendous fire in the Golden being short-changed. None of fund has been set up for the has been with the District for State. you seemed to have the neces- Rucker family, “The Steven 1 year. He also received The media is playing its old sary SCBA protection. I realize Rucker Fund” at the Bank of minor burns, was treated and and noble tune about the heroic that an “unlimited supply” of Marin. Fire Captain Doug released. Firefighters, the sacrifice of breathable air is a logistical McDonald, 48 years old and a The Novato Fire District Brother Steve Rucker...another nightmare but one that this 17-year veteran with the Dis- made arrangements for Dis- heartache for the “Fire Family,” country faced in the war trict, received burns over 18% trict representatives and the and the tragic loss of civilian against Saddam Hussein and if of his body. He is currently wife of Captain McDonald to life and property. They, the per- one goes back far enough, in being treated at a San Diego fly to San Diego. sonalities in the media, are try- World War One as well. Burn Facility. He is in critical This tragic incident is diffi- ing, but just like the 9-11-01 I know that it is difficult to condition, and is expected to cult for all members of the aftermath, when the dust set- fight fires encumbered by recover. Captain McDonald Novato Fire District and their tles, only we Brothers and Sis- SCBA but facing the conse- has a wife and 2 children. A families. Grief counseling is ters will truly remember to quences of not doing so is even trust fund has been set up for planned for all employees and care.... tougher. The harm of cigarette the McDonald family, “The their family members. With that in mind, I hope that smoke is well documented but Doug McDonald Fund” at The District had 2 other your political leaders are going the results of what you are At 12:30 Wednesday, Octo- the Bank of Marin. crews assigned to the South- to be better to you than Mayor forced to breathe can only be ber 29, 2003, a Novato Fire For more information ern California fires. Those Bloomberg, Governor Pataki guessed at. So I hope that you District crew operating Engine regarding donations to these crews were recalled and and everyone in D.C. were to demand what is necessary to 6162 on the Cedar fire in San funds please call the Bank of returned to Novato. “The Survivors Still Standing” protect not only your lungs and Diego County near Wynola, Marin at (415) 899-7338. in the FDNY! I hope that they the rest of you too! north of Julian, was overrun Engineer Shawn Kreps is Public Information will not cut your manning lev- Whatever you do, know that by fire. 35 years old, is a 7-year vet- Hotline: els, close many of your fire sta- the rest of us in you Fire Fami- This event resulted in the eran with the District. He (415) 878-2690 tions, refuse you decent ly know what you are going death of Engineer Steven received minor injuries, was 7025 Redwood salaries and benefits now and through. It’s just another reason Rucker, 38 years old, who treated and released. He has a Boulevard when you retire, and even we are hurting for you ‘Leather was an 11-year veteran of wife and 2 children. Novato, CA 94945 refuse to provide you with the Lung-Fire Singed-Heroes of Novato Fire. Steve leaves a Firefighter/Paramedic Bar- best equipment, i.e. radios —- the Golden State.’ the way the Brothers in New York City are being treated by Message from the Parents of Steve Rucker the FDNY administration, the politicians of both city and state, the public and the media. November 11, 2003 that will secure the future of astounding. “Times are tough,” they are We always knew Steve was Cathy and the children. Please perpetuate his mem- told, “suck it up... everyone has special. Your outpouring of We will never forget the ory by giving each person you to sacrifice....” support has been overwhelm- respect paid to our son dur- contact respect and kindness. Funny, just like you, the ing. We are truly humbled by ing his return to Novato. The Brothers in the FDNY didn’t the news coverage, web post- sympathy and support from Thank you, have “everyone else” at their ing, cards and flowers, and the Novato Fire District, and Patricia and Darrell Rucker side when the Red-Devil was especially the contributions the people of Novato has been Parents of Steven L. Rucker eating at their body and soul. Fraternally, Oh some others were there to Jim Powell, Lt. help but it was far from every- FDNY Retired January/February 2004 Los Angeles Firefighter Page 9 Simi Valley Fire

by Chris Jensen, CFPA Los Angeles County. In the end, among representing agency’s on this incident with unified the blaze. There were 16 minor The Simi Incident which over one hundred thousand acres on the incident assisting in fire- command being granted to Los firefighter injuries reported and erupted in the Val Verde area Sat- of brush and 37 homes destroyed fighting efforts, along with Angeles County Fire and the no deaths. Firefighting efforts urday, October 25, 2003 at 2:15 in the region, before rain helped department air support helicop- California Department of cost an estimated $6.8 million p.m. took five days to contain firefighters gain control of the ters providing water drops and Forestry (CDF). with a residential damage esti- after burning northwest of Santa fast spreading flames. aerial assessments. Firefighters were ordered mate of $20 million dollars. Clarita and spread into Ventura Los Angeles City Fire Ventura County Fire Depart- from as far away as New Mex- The cause of the fire is current- County before doubling back to Department Strike teams were ment was the primary agency ico to help units gain control of ly under investigation. CFPA photographers Crisscrossed the Southland Covering the Firestorms of 2003 by Mike Meadows, CFPA gasbord of death, destruction this magnitude. changing event for many of This was the same day a Starting with the Gran Prix and heartbreak that Mother During the firestorms we the thousands of firefighters firefighter and others lost their Fire in Rancho Cucamonga on Nature served up...along with were only concerned about involved, many who lost lives and three thousand 10-22-03 and ending with the the help of heartless arsonists. getting the best pictures we homes themselves. homes had been lost. I was Cedar Glen firestorm near Many firefighters called this could and only in the past few As I write this and think driving back to “my house”, Lake Arrowhead on 10-30-03, a career fire, a hundred-year weeks have we had a chance to back, one thing stands out in my memories, and my family. CFPA members Louie Gallar- fire. For the photographers of reflect on the enormous my mind. Driving back to my They were driving back to do, Mike Meadows, Gene the CFPA, many who have tragedy that occurred, the peo- house one evening from the nothing but smoldering ruins Blevins, Chris Jenson, Al Sim- seen enormous brush fires in ple who perished, the Old Fire I was bitching and and it made me want to kick mons, Scott Miller, Craig their careers, this was also an thousands of homes destroyed, bemoaning the fact that I was myself for thinking about Durling, Bill Hartenstein and event we will most probably lives disrupted forever, memo- about to spend the next 3 something as trivial as clean- Scott Meadows spent many see again. Of course we will ries lost, and the mental hours cleaning the inside of ing my car…and I’m sure that hours and drove hundreds of see more huge brush fires but, anguish. my car and washing retardant other CFPA member felt the miles documenting the smor- hopefully never again, fires of Indeed, this was a life off the outside. same.

1. Mike Meadows 2. Gene Blevins 3. Al Simmons

4. Bill Hartenstein 5. Gene Blevins

7.

Photos 1, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 10, by Gene Blevins, CFPA 8.

6. Jeff Miller

9. Mike Meadows and Craig Durling 10. Mike Meadows and Craig Durling Page 10 Los Angeles Firefighter January/February 2004 Local TV News Crew Narrowly Escapes Wild Fire

KNBC Television 4 News Reporter Chuck Henry and his crew were lucky to get make it out alive as the wild fire in Arrowhead surrounded them and consumed their news van. Photos by Gene Blevins, CFPA

Photo by Mike Meadows, CFPA

Photo by Mike Meadows, CFPA January/February 2004 Los Angeles Firefighter Page 11

Mike Meadows and legendary KTLA TV-5 reporter Stan Chambers. Photo by Chris Jensen, CFPA Photo by Chris Jensen, CFPA

Photo by Gene Blevins, CFPA

Photo by Chris Jensen, CFPA

Photo by Gene Blevins, CFPA

Photo by Gene Blevins, CFPA

©Copyright 2003, Reno Gazette-Journal Photo by Chris Jensen, CFPA Reprinted with Permission Page 12 Los Angeles Firefighter January/February 2004 Your Health… Recognizing the Signs of Stroke come any suggestions you may ¥ Risk factors that may nutrients to the brain is either DIATELY. Time is truly of the have about future topics, so increase the chances of stroke blocked by a clot or bursts. essence. As the American please don’t hesitate to forward ¥ Major warning signs of When this happens part of the Stroke Association says, “Time them to the editor: Jim Perry at stroke brain cannot get the blood (and Lost is Brain Lost.” [email protected] ¥ When to call 9-1-1 oxygen) it needs, so it starts to For more valuable informa- In this issue, let’s focus on the ¥ Life-saving drugs that are die. Clots that block an artery tion, check out the American subject of stroke Ð something, available, but are required to be cause ischemic strokes, which Stroke Association’s Website at as EMT’s and Paramedics, you given to stroke victims within a is the most common type of www.strokeassociation.org, are familiar with but may or certain time frame. stroke, accounting for 70-80% and of course, talk to your may not think about very often In other words, if you or your of all strokes. Being older, physician for more information unless it directly affects a fami- family members don’t know smoking, diabetes, and a histo- about this truly devastating dis- ly member or someone close to the signs of stroke, you are not ry of high blood pressure are ease. you. While knowledge is the alone. A recent article pub- just a few risk factors that Through the Blue Cross Cal- by Debbie Bustamante, key to preventing or minimiz- lished in the November 2003 increase the chances of having iforniaCare HMO and Prudent Consultant ing the affects of a stroke, shar- issue of the American Journal a stroke. The major warning Buyer PPO plans, UFLAC Fickewirth & Associates ing with your family and of Preventive Medicine found signs of stroke are: members and their families As many of you already friends as soon as possible the that less than one in five people ¥ Sudden weakness or numb- have access to the finest doc- know, I am a Consultant for warning signs of a stroke could could recognize the signs of ness in the face, arm or leg, tors and two of the most exten- Fickewirth & Associates. Fick- lead to possible prevention stroke and know what to do especially on one side of the sive networks in the state. With ewirth & Associates has served and/or less severe after affects when one occurs. Interestingly, body CaliforniaCare, you can build as UFLAC’s Medical Insurance should a stroke occur. smokers were more likely than ¥ Sudden confusion, trouble a relationship with your pri- Consultant for the past decade. According to the American non-smokers to fail to recog- speaking or understanding mary care physician and Starting with this issue, I will Stroke Association, stroke is nize stroke’s warning signs. Yet ¥ Sudden trouble seeing in receive almost all benefits be writing an ongoing column the third leading cause of death this knowledge is crucial as it one or both eyes including office visits, hospital- that focuses on preventive in the United States, right after could mean the difference ¥ Sudden trouble walking, ization, surgery, routine physi- health care, and how you can heart disease and cancer. Yet between life and death, or dis- dizziness, loss of balance or cal exams, well baby care and take the necessary steps to live you just don’t hear as much ability, especially since the new coordination even vision and hearing exams, a healthy life. Without a doubt, about it in the media, which treatments for stroke must be ¥ Sudden, severe headache for little or no out-of-pocket the best defense against illness may explain why a majority of administered within a few with no known cause cost. Additionally, Prudent is a good offense Ð and that Americans know so little about hours after symptoms begin. If you or someone around Buyer is the best fee-for-serv- means taking a proactive strokes and stroke related A stroke occurs when a blood you experiences any of these ice type health plan available approach to your health. I wel- information such as: vessel that carries oxygen and symptoms, call 9-1-1 IMME- for UFLAC members. Tonight Show With Jay Leno Pays Tribute to CA Firefighters

California’s front line profes- The firefighter audience was ing of support our profession sional firefighters, who put entertained by Leno, Myers has received these past few their lives on the line battling and musical legend Al Green. weeks is appreciated by all of the recent Southern California They were also on hand as our state’s front line first wildland fires were welcomed Leno was presented a cus- responders.” to the Burbank studios of the tomized motorcycle from the The firefighter audience was Tonight Show with Jay Leno. father-son team that hosts the arranged through California Some 350 uniformed fire- Discovery Channel program Professional Firefighters (CPF), fighters were in the audi- American Choppers. which was approached by ence for the afternoon tap- For the firefighter audience, Leno’s producers through Bur- ing of the late-night talk one of the highlights was a spe- bank Firefighters, Local 778. show, which aired Thursday cial performance by the Pipes CPF members from throughout evening, Nov. 20. The fire- and Drums of the California the state were in the audience, fighters participated at Jay Professional Firefighters. The most of which fought on the Leno’s personal invitation 20-member Pipe Band marched front lines. as a way to say “thank you” onto the stage at the end of the Photos courtesy of CPF for the hard work during the monologue and played until the recent firestorm. Joining first commercial break. Leno was actor Mike “We’re honored to have been Myers, who bowed to the asked to be a part of this trib- firefighters. ute, and particularly delighted “They’re all heroes and it’s to have our Pipe and Drum an honor to be here,” said Band involved,” said CPF Pres- Myers. ident Dan Terry. “The outpour- IAFF Scores Legislative Victory As Congress Adjourns

Heart Attacks and our staff. Kevin O’Connor, my Strokes to Be Included in Assistant for Government and PSOB Benefit Public Affairs and Legislative As the first session of the Director Barry Kasinitz really 108th Congress moved toward came through on this issue,” adjournment, the IAFF seized proclaimed General President an opportunity and passed an Harold A. Schaitberger. well as the Department of Jus- activity that it will be “pre- active support of Speaker J. Den- amended version of the Home- Since the benefit was origi- tice, which administers the pro- sumed” that the death was sus- nis Hastert (R-IL) and Howard town Heroes Survivors Benefit nally enacted in 1976, the IAFF gram, to reach an agreement on tained in the line of duty and the Coble (R-NC), chairman of the Act, S.459, which will expand has sought to expand the pro- the proposal. The final version family will be deemed eligible House Judiciary Subcommittee the Public Safety Officers gram to include heart attacks of S.459 amends the Omnibus for PSOB benefits. on Crime, Terrorism and Home- Benefit (PSOB) to include and strokes. At the 2003 Leg- Crime Control and Safe Streets “Our success in passing this land Security that has jurisdic- heart attacks and strokes. islative Conference last March, Act of 1968 (42 United States legislation is testimony to our bi- tion over the issue. “This constitutes another General President Schaitberger Code 3796) to specify that if a partisan approach to lobbying,” “Our friends on both sides of major victory for the IAFF’s announced that the passage of public safety officers dies as a Schaitberger commented. Sena- the aisle made this victory pos- legislative program. Cutting this legislation was a top orga- “direct and proximate” result of tor Patrick Leahy (VT) and Con- sible,” Schaitberger concluded. this type of deal in the final nizational priority. a heart attack or stroke within gressman Bob Etheridge (NC) The original PSOB benefit hours of a Congressional ses- Throughout the summer, the twenty-four hours of responding originally advanced the propos- was set at $50,000. Today, it sion is phenomenal. I applaud IAFF has worked with staff to incident or training exercise al…both are Democrats. But, its stands at $267,494 and is the tenacity and hard work of from the House and Senate as involving strenuous physical final passage resulted from the indexed annually for inflation. January/February 2004 Los Angeles Firefighter Page 13 Drinking in the firehouse… It’s Become A National Fire Service Embarrassment!

Time to make a demanding that these types of sober, capable firefighters to west Los Angeles, where the stand against practices be discontinued answer my call. I want to know cries and moaning of a serious- firehouse drinking immediately. Failure to do so that they have all their senses ly injured mother and the man- It doesn’t make one iota of will require me to non-renew available to save my family. Is gled body of her dead child in difference if we’re speaking of all policies in force with Grin- that more than I should expect? the vehicle would haunt my any particular city in Ameri- nell Mutual.” I don’t think so. sub-conscious decades later. ca…it all adds up to thought- “My view of firefighters has It’s time for the leadership in less thinking and a complete Who’s in charge? definitely been tarnished. I the United States Fire Adminis- disregard for the honor of serv- Since when do we allow fire used to look up to them as tration to join the International ing in a very dangerous profes- department members to dictate heroes. But because of the Association of Fire Chiefs and sion and protecting the com- alcohol policy to city council events here in the last year I no condemn any fire department munity you serve. members chosen by the elec- longer feel that way. I know that does not possess a zero- It’s time for the public to torate to serve and govern the there were firefighters that did- tolerance for alcohol in the fire demand that no fire-rescue affairs of the city? According to n’t agree with the fire chief station. agency condone alcohol being reports, a city official was where I live but went along by: Jerry Smith consumed by on-duty firefight- appalled by the local volunteer with the whole thing any way. IAFF position on alcohol Captain, LAFD Retired ers in the fire station/hall. You fire department and their drink- Why didn’t they have a back- and drug abuse Staff Writer want to drink — do it off-duty ing habits. And in doing so the bone and stand up for what was The International Associa- Los Angeles Firefighter — and turn the pager off. councilwoman was quickly right? I just don’t understand tion of Fire Fighters has long If you’ve wondered how far As long as naive community branded a troublemaker and that part of the whole thing. I recognized that alcohol abuse the tradition for drinking in leaders ignore the fire station/ became a target for threats know some of them were and drug use by employees the volunteer fire hall reaches hall drinking mentality we will from those that went along happy to see the beer go. Why would be a threat to the public mainstream America, this continue to cause conflict-rid- with the risky behavior of didn’t they support the effort?” welfare and the safety of fire telling editorial should pinch den incidents like the follow- drinking volunteers. department personnel. a nerve for those of you that ing: Almost immediately, local A positive public image For the past 15 years the oppose the drinking of alco- In October 2002, (KCRG town folk became fearful of or a black eye? IAFF has been working with hol in any form while TV9 News Reporter Craig retaliation if they were seen It’s unfortunate for the fire their affiliates to eliminate or engaged in fire service activi- Brown) reports that volunteers talking to anyone brave enough service in America that it’s absolve alcohol and drug abuse ties. It doesn’t matter if may walk off the job over the to speak out. Was it too much wearing a black eye that keeps and use through education and you’re a volunteer in Elgin, issue of alcohol at the fire- for the good old boys in Elgin on swelling in the public view rehabilitation of the affected Iowa testing fire hydrants or a house. The dispute is growing and their ego’s that they would of outrageous behavior and the personnel. The IAFF believes career firefighter eating din- in the small town of Elgin in be challenged in a public emerging negative feelings of that possession, use or being ner at a fire station in any city Northeast Iowa between fire- forum? the public. And if the tradition- under the influence of alco- in America. What responsible fighters and certain members al curse of drinking in volun- holic beverages or unautho- reason do you have for any of the city council. Pitiful rationalization teer fire station/halls is not bad rized drugs must never be per- amount of alcohol to be Every month the 22 volunteer Then we read other stories enough — now we get shock- mitted at the work site and/or measured in your blood firefighters of Elgin gather for about alcohol in the fire halls ing and outrageous reports that while a fire fighter or emer- stream while on duty or at training and then they usually and then read about the ration- certain big city firefighters con- gency medical personnel are home available on pager? stick around to have a few beers ale of the Wyoming pro-drink- duct drinking social hours in on duty. Like a majority of dedicated at the firehouse. Now some peo- ing lobby in a recent article by some of its fire stations. “While a drug free fire serv- fire service professionals when ple around town are questioning AP reporter Robert Black. We As a former fire captain in ice and zero tolerance policies I read about volunteers drink- why the firefighters are drinking keep hearing the weak argu- the second largest city in Amer- are valid goals, they must not ing a few beers at the firehouse, on city property. ment, “That a ban on alcohol ica, never did I think about be implemented and/or admin- I begin to believe there couldn’t The issue reached the city’s would hurt morale. When you drinking in the fire station and istered in a punitive atmos- be that much concern in their insurance company, Grinnell risk your life for somebody for one good reason, I learned phere”; stated Harold A. hearts for the safety of a com- Mutual, which wrote a letter every day, you need to have an early on that drinking and fire- Schaitberger, IAFF General munity that depends on them. saying, “It has been brought to association, a bond with them.’’ fighting is a deadly mix. Nor President. He believes that any It’s time to remove the legiti- our attention that alcohol is A concerned reader who read could I conceive dulling my fire department initiating drug mate volunteer and career fire made available at the fire the article responds, “But why senses would ever help me do a and alcohol testing must ensure service from under a dangerous department functions. The City does alcohol have to be a part better job where mental alert- that workers have provisions tradition that continues to be of Elgin, City Council and the of that bond? I understand the ness and physical strength is for employees to seek assis- manipulated to serve the not so Fire Chief as well as the fire need for a bond but alcohol king. Never will I forget a tance, treatment and rehabilita- dedicated part-timers and oth- department would be held does not need to be a part of deadly head-on vehicle crash tion as well as educational ers on the front lines of public responsible for any incident that bond. If I ever have to call and the extrication involving a efforts to prevent substance safety. that should happen. We are the fire department I want DUI driver on a busy street in abuse. Burbank Police Officer Killed

Burbank Police Officer killed in the line of duty in the will recover. Randy Lloyd, Matthew Pavelka was 26 years departments 82-year history. another officer responding to old and on the department for The funeral was held on the help call was thrown from Over 100 Los Angeles City Firefighters were called to the only 10 months when he was November 21, 2003 at Forest his motorcycle and is recover- Griffith Park Golf Course to help extinguish a greater alarm shot and killed in a Ramada Inn Lawn-Hollywood Hills and ing with a broken ankle, 2 structure that consumed a two-story maintenance garage parking lot on San Fernando was attended by over 3500 broken wrists, several bruised where golf carts were stored. Approximately 150 golf carts Rd. Pavelka was backing up police officers and firefighters. ribs and 2 broken fingers. were destroyed along with the two-story building that fellow officer Gregg Campbell Officer Greg Campbell housed them. The incident took 1 hour and 6 minutes to Photo and information by on a traffic stop when two sus- remains in the hospital with bring under control. The cause is under investigation. Fire Ross Benson, CFPA pects opened fire on the bullets still lodged in his neck damage is estimated at $700,000. officers. He was the first officer and back, but doctors say he Photo and information by Ross A. Benson, CFPA Page 14 Los Angeles Firefighter January/February 2004 2003 UFLAC Holiday Open House January/February 2004 Los Angeles Firefighter Page 15 Grieving Behind the Badge… Life-Altering Events - Disabling Injuries Part One of a Three-Part Series

Exposure to with the trauma of a permanent Draw upon your they still have much to offer. communicable diseases disability that prevents him or inner strengths Their knowledge base is and occupational injuries her from performing their You have always had goals invaluable to new members of We are constantly exposed to duties as a firefighter or EMS and dreams. As a result of your the departments. They can lend the dangers of communicable professional? disability your goals and assistance to the staff in many diseases such as Hepatitis and ¥ What can you do to prepare dreams for life will need to be areas including moral support AIDS. Occupational injuries yourself should a tragedy such redefined or altered. This does following a stressful emer- such as back strain from lifting as this happen to you? not mean that you are less of a gency call. patients and hearing loss due to person in any way. You must loud sirens are routine in our As providers of care we accept your limitations and Do not overlook these line of work. Government have talents most accommodate your life to fit opportunities agencies including the United civilians do not have your disability. You can and You will be helping them not States Public Health Service We thrive on the good feel- will remain a valuable asset to only recover emotionally from and Department of Labor as ings we have inside when we your family and community. their injuries but more impor- well as the National Trans- are able to make a difference in Do not take life for granted. tantly you will be offering them by Peggy Sweeney portation and Safety Board are someone’s life. Each of us In the blink of an eye your an outlet to regain their feelings Staff Writer finally addressing these inci- made a conscious decision to future can be forever changed. of self-worth. Los Angeles Firefighter dents of job-related injuries become a firefighter or emer- What if something unforeseen Copyright 2003 Peggy There is a not-so-new epi- and deaths and making recom- gency service provider because happened that would prevent Sweeney. All rights reserved. demic sweeping this country mendations to protect our safe- we wanted to help others in dis- you from fulfilling your that is finally getting the atten- ty and health. tress. We do not take our call- planned role in life? What 1 Maguire BJ, Hunting KL, tion it deserves. Injuries and Although personal protective ing lightly but rather seek to be would you do? How would you Smith GS, Levick NR. Occupa- deaths among emergency equipment is protocol for fire- the best we can be. When one reinvest in life following a cat- tional fatalities in emergency response workers are at an all fighters and pre-hospital care- of us suffers a physical injury astrophic injury or illness? God medical services: a hidden cri- time high. Recent studies have givers, studies reveal that addi- or life-threatening illness that willing you will never be faced sis. Ann Emerg Med 2002;40: shown that “EMS personnel in tional safeguards for the health takes away the very thing that with a crisis of this magnitude. 625—32. the United States have an esti- and safety of these workers gives meaning to our life we However, it is important that 2 Clarke, C. & Zak, M. mated fatality rate of 12.7 per- need to be standardized. grieve. This type of loss is sim- you take the time now, while (1999). Fatalities to law cent per 100,000 workers, Mandatory classes in the safe ilar to having someone we love you are healthy, to explore your enforcement officers and fire- more than twice the national operation of emergency vehi- die. We may experience many options if a tragedy happened. fighters, 1992-97. Washington, average1.” The fatality rate for cles as well as self-defense and of the same feelings and emo- D.C.: United State Department firefighters is 16.7. Emergency strength building programs will tions that we do when we are Center your choices on of Labor, Bureau of Labor Sta- response workers “are more further reduce death and bereaved. We believe that our your talents tistics. likely than other workers to die injuries. These same studies role in society as caregiver or Choose a career that will give violently—from gunshots, have encouraged all fire and firefighter defines who we are you the same feelings of About the Author: Peggy, vehicle accidents, and fire- emergency service directors to and our value as a person. In accomplishment that you have founder and president of The related incidents. Their risk of take an active role in protecting other words, our self-worth. now in emergency service. Sweeney Alliance, is an EMT- suffering a fatal incident is the health and wellness of their When this defining element is Never forget that there will B and formerly a firefighter three times greater than for all staff. eliminated due to a permanent always be someone who needs and mortician. She has devel- workers.2” Patients under the ¥ What effect can a disabling disability, we may think that you. There are many people in oped and facilitated numerous influence of narcotics or alco- injury or illness have on the we are less of a person or no your community who would workshops on coping with grief hol, family members of the vic- mental and emotional well longer of value to our family or benefit from your help and and post-traumatic stress for tim, or bystanders may threaten being of someone in the emer- the community we served. expertise. If you make deci- professionals and families and us with knives, guns, physical gency response community? If you are one of the many sions with an open mind and a has reached out to her commu- assault, or verbal abuse. ¥ How can someone cope professionals that have suffered loving heart, I have no doubt nity by way of support groups a disabling injury, I hope my that if you are ever faced with a for bereaved parents and chil- — SAFER A Reality — words will offer comfort and disabling injury that the choic- dren. She offers help to emer- help in coping with your loss. es you have thought about now gency response and public President Signs Defense As you begin to heal physical- will enable you to heal physi- safety personnel through her ly, you will need to heal emo- cally and emotionally. Grieving Behind the Badge Authorization tionally as well. You may feel In conclusion, I strongly training program. Both the at times that you are riding a believe that emergency International Labor Communi- President George Bush priations process to ensure that roller coaster. Up one day and response administrators should cations and the Western Labor signed the annual Department SAFER is fully funded for the down into despair the next. make every effort to allow dis- Communications Associations of Defense Authorization Act, duration of the program. This is normal. You may expe- abled firefighters and EMS per- have recognized Peggy for out- S.1588, at a White House cere- “In spite of the administra- rience anger because fate has sonnel to participate in the day- standing achievement in the mony. His signature enacted tion’s opposition to SAFER, we stepped in and robbed you of to-day activities of the depart- field of labor journalism. You the IAFF’s Staffing for Ade- applaud the President for sign- so much. Surround yourself ment should they so desire. may contact Peggy through her quate Fire and Emergency ing this initiative into law. The with family members and Although these men and Web site at www.sweeneyal- Response (SAFER) into law. IAFF encourages President friends who will provide a pos- women may be unable to fulfill liance.org or by e-mail The IAFF successfully Bush to embrace this program itive outlook for your future. their former responsibilities [email protected] inserted the $7.7 billion dollar and provide funding in his program to hire 75,000 new fire budget proposal for the coming fighters into the 435-page bill, year,” commented General Pres- which funds the Pentagon’s ident Harold A. Schaitberger. operations. A bi-partisan coali- The inclusion of the SAFER tion pushed the measure provision in the Defense Autho- through Congress on behalf of rization bill was the culmination the nation’s fire fighters. of several years of work by fire “I am very pleased that we fighter allies in Congress. Sen. were able to include SAFER as Chris Dodd (D-CT) and Sen. part of the defense authoriza- John Warner (R-VA) offered the tion. Ensuring adequate IAFF proposal as an amendment staffing and providing suffi- to the Defense bill on the Senate cient resources to our domestic floor. Rep. Sherry Boehlert (R- defenders is essential to safe- NY) led the efforts in the House guarding our homeland,” said to assure that the provision Chairman of the House Armed would survive a conference Services Committee Duncan committee, and Rep. Curt Wel- Hunter (R-CA). Ironically, don (R-PA) put together the final Hunter, a longtime supporter of compromise. Other lawmakers Los Angeles City Firefighters were called to Whitman Airport on Oct. 28, 2003 while many federal fire fighters, lost his who played key roles were Sen. local firefighters were battling brush fires around the county. This twin engine Piper over- home in the recent wildfires John McCain (R-AZ), and Rep. shot the end of the runway through the blast fence onto Osborne Street. Firefighters from that ravaged California. Bill Pascrell (D-NJ), Rep. Jack Task Force 98 found no danger from leaking fuel and no injuries. FAA and NTSB were called The IAFF will now shift its Quinn (R-NY), and Rep. Gene to investigate this mishap. lobbying efforts to the appro- Green (D-TX). Photo by Ross A. Benson, CFPA Page 16 Los Angeles Firefighter January/February 2004 Old Fireboat 2 Saved by Retired Fireboat Pilot Bill Dahlquist

We have a new and frighten- was put back in the water. the workers at Larson to haul the ing story about the Ralph J. boat back out of the water. After Scott. It is a bad news/good Dahlquist to the rescue it was hauled out they found the news drama. Most of you know (Remember the little original hole with Bill’s paint- about our plan as a Historical Dutch boy with his finger brush protruding through and Society to preserve Old Fire- in the dike?) found a larger weak area in the boat 2, the Ralph J. Scott by The yard had the boat in the hull around the hole. The yard removing it from the water and water before Bill got there, so welded a patch over the area and placing it in it’s own boathouse Bill got on board just to check put the boat back in the water on land near FS 112. Part of the things out. When Bill went where Bill and members from preservation project is to deter- below into the engine/pump Fire Station 112 took the Scott mine the status of the hull. room he found a stream of water back to 112’s without a problem. The Port of Los Angeles has coming into the boat through a The bad news was the boat taken a lead role in the project 1/2-inch hole below the water almost sunk…the good news is and hired consultants to take line. Quick thinking Bill found that Bill was there to save it. The measurements while the boat a paint brush nearby and shoved incident also supports our plan was hauled out of Larson’s boat the handle into the hole, which to get the boat out of the water yard on Terminal Island. Retired nearly stopped the leak and then so that something like this will Fire Boat Pilot Bill Dahlquist called 911 on his cell phone. not happen in the future. spent 6 days overseeing the proj- Fire Boat 1 and 2, Battalion 6 We all owe Bill Dahlquist a Bill Dahlquist with the Ralph J. Scott at Larsons Boat Yard. ect for us. The hull was checked and Div. 2 responded to pump debt of gratitude for not only Photo and information by Frank Borden, LAFD Retired visually and electronically and out approximately 400 gallons his dedication and hard work, even got a coat of bottom paint of water from the bilge area. but for taking the actions to and new zinc plates. Everything After the 911 call, Bill got out prevent a possible catastrophic IAFF Award Winners was going fine until the Scott of the boat and immediately got loss for all of us. Sponsored by UFLAC The Rich Get Richer

United Firefighters of Los that are providing long term The New York Times reports wealthiest taxpayers was account for much of the Angeles City was proud to sub- therapy to the brothers that are that the 400 wealthiest taxpay- almost $174 million in 2000. increase. A cut in capital gains mit Brother Mike Lennon’s still troubled by the events of ers accounted for more than 1 That was nearly quadruple the tax rates in 1997 to 20 percent video, “Brothers on Holy Sept 11th. percent of all the income in the $46.8 million average in 1992. from 28 percent encouraged Ground” which appeared on The purpose of Lennon’s United States in the year 2000, The minimum income to quali- long-term holders of assets, ABC TV “Nightline.” Lennon film was to assist those two more than double their share fy for the list was $86.8 million like privately owned business- produced the video that con- groups. Copies of Brother just eight years earlier, accord- in 2000, more than triple the es, to sell them, and big tains heartfelt interviews from Lennon’s outstanding film, ing to new data from the minimum income of $24.4 mil- increases in executive compen- active members of the FDNY “Brothers on Holy Ground” Internal Revenue Service. But lion of the 400 wealthiest sation thrust corporate chiefs recounting the legendary nobil- are still on sale: their tax burden plummeted taxpayers in 1992. into the ranks of the nation’s ity and courage of NY’s fallen Price: $20 (plus $4 for ship- over the period. While the sharp growth in aristocracy. firefighters while delving into ping and handling) The data, in a report that the incomes over that period coin- This year’s tax cut reduced the emotional aftermath of Check to be made out and IRS released, shows that the cided with the stock market the capital gains rate further, to those who survived 9/11. mailed to: average income of the 400 bubble, other factors appear to 15 percent. Brother Lennon is donating “Engine House Productions” half the check to “Other Side P.O. Box 85 of the Firehouse” and the Sea Cliff, NY 11579 other half to “Friends of the Note: Engine House Produc- Firefighters.” These are the tions is a 501c non-profit two non-profit organizations organization.

Mike Lennon, right, receives his second place award and a check for $200 from fellow retired FDNY brother Jimmy Boyle. Boyle was kind enough to make the presentation of behalf of UFLAC Local 112 and the IAFF.

Photographer Chris Jensen, a regular contributor to the Los Angeles Firefighter newspa- per took a Second Place in the category News Photo (Cir- culation Under 100,000) for his spectaculor shot of a heli- copter making a water drop in a brush fire in Los Angeles City. His photo appeared in “What does it profit a man to be able to eat at an integrated lunch Fire Rescue Magazine. Jensen received a plaque and counter if he can’t afford the price of a hamburger?” a check for $200. —Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.