Old Mail #7
8/29/2007
– 7/25/2008 To go to Old Mail #6 Click Here
We have had many calls from my buddies in the Bay Area, thank you very much for the concern, it sure makes a difference when you know that your friends and workmates are thinking about your welfare.
I have enclosed some pictures of what was going on behind our house as well as above it!!!!
The Town of
It came within 600 feet of our home,
we live on the edge of the West Branch of the
After 5 days we were allowed to remain in our home
overnight. While we were away we hand housesitters
from
I am very thankful that Siggy, Ryder Myself and none of my retirement buddies were seriously affected. There have been many homes lost, one of which was Julie's Doctor.
We are in the process of collecting donations for those that lost everything, again seeing the terrible damage some have suffered, I am truley thankful!
I offered my assistance and was told your retired, we will handle it!!! ( 25 year old studs, like we used to be )
Although there are fires burning all around us, I think the 3000 men and women and all of the equipment, will GET IT DONE soon.
Ralph Johnson
P.S. One of my golf buddies ran into an
Hello everyone,
My Dad may not be around the stations for awhile (month or so) He had neck surgery today. Dr. reported it was successful.
He is at
If you have any e-mails or messages that you would like to send my way I would make sure that he gets them.
Thanks to all for your thoughts and prayers!
Bob Hopken
510-207-0426
Rich,
I was very saddened to hear of Ted’s passing. I was very good friends with his deceased son Gordon and still am friends with his other son David. I have to tell this story about Ted.
Gordon was a member of the old OES fire department under the
then leadership of the Sheriff’s Department. Along with the Dublin Fire
Department we burnt an old home down where the new exit off the freeway to
I will miss Ted and I will always remember him fondly and I wished I had kept that face shield.
Sincerely,
Terrell L. Givens
Rich,
My condolences to the family. It is always sad to hear of one of our own passing. Hope they find peace and hope in this time of loss.
Tom
Rich,
Ted Slade a former
The Service will be at
an internment accross the street.
Respectively,
Dino Zoggas
Rich – I hope you can read this. Please correct as needed…..Ray
Arvo Wallenius- A well liked and one of the finest and competent firefighter and engineer, both in-house and at emergencies.
He entered the SLFD with eight others when part of
Before moving to
He loved to fish and once owned a boat in the Delta.
He traveled a great deal and spent many a winter in
He joined the Ashland FD September 1953 after service as a volunteer.
He was a good old boy and was a credit to the fire service.
Ray Jannson
Dear Rich,
I remember
Wally Wallenius. Thank you for telling of his
passing.
Warmly,
Virginia Gebhardt
When Wally retired, one of his concerns was for the San Leandro Fire fighters Association treasurers position that he held for many years as the one and only treasurer. He wanted to have someone replace him that would be there long term and care about the finances and well being of our firefighters. I was happy that he accepted my request to take over his job.
I took over for him and was the treasurer for many years. The position not only collected dues but also made sure that life insurance fees that were collected with payroll deducted dues and any policy changes were kept up to date. He also made a point to see to it that the widows of our deceased retirees were always remembered especially at Christmas.
He taught me to watch out for the guys and to make sure their beneficiaries were helped in any way if they unfortunately needed to collect on a policy.
I will always remember him, and my wife and I will keep Wally in our prayers.
Floyd Nabonne
Dear Rich:
Wanted to let you know of the passing of my dad, Arvo “Wally” Wallenius. He
was born
He was an engineer for many years and enjoyed working and
teaching new recruits. He was active in softball and bowling and enjoyed
camping and fishing. He built two retirement homes, one in Angel’s Camp
and one in
Wally met and married Dorothy in July of 1946 in Ironwood,
Wally lived all of his 90 years, with age only catching up
with him the last six months of his life. Thankfully, he was still very
sharp mentally and enjoyed being around family and friends. Dorothy will
remain in
Butch worked for San Leandro Fire Department from 1973 to
1976 and then quit his job to move to
Dad will be missed but not forgotten.
---------------------------
I’ve attached a photo of dad for you to use if you can or have room. If you have any questions, let me know. Thanks for keeping the Bresnan going…I don’t know that many anymore, but it’s nice to see faces from the “old” days!
Thanks,
Butch Wallenius
Rich, thank you for the call, really great to hear from you,
though I am sorry to hear about Ed and Gil. Why do we have to have
the bad with the good? As you now know my wife and I moved to
Rich
See
Calendar
and Fire Chief Sheldon Gilbert
invite you to attend
2008 ANNUAL
WELCOME BACK RETIREES OPEN HOUSE
See
Calendar
Hello to all, I am leaving Thursday for a 3-week trip to Louisiana and Texas to include 8-10 days in Nawlins, (New Orleans for the uninitiated) to work with Habitat for Humanity, visiting relatives, etc. Please do not send me any emails. No one will be checking my computer and I am sure this poor, tired, overworked, antiquated machine would be completely inundated and probably crash, falling to the floor and shattering in a bazillion pieces. Thank you for your time and consideration. Should anyone wish to communicate with me my cell phone is 209.559.1908. Luck to all and God Bless. Frank
Hi Rich,
Thanks for everything you do for all of us with the Bresnan. Before I get going here I want to do a short rendition of what my career was like. Basically my career was 30 years of short jokes interspersed with a zillion medical calls and an occasional fire. All the short jokes never really bothered me, but I did keep a journal with every joke noted with content, date, time and jokester, and I'll give you some actual examples from my extensive short joke log: "Why don't you just walk under the rig and check for leaks" (Sigglekow); " Hey, shorter than everyone..." (Naas); “Does someone as short as you get a full paycheck?" (Phil Smith). Then some of my personal favorites, practical short jokes: phone books piled on the Captain's seat, or a small step ladder next to the engine door, (Denny Hopken); and best of all when I was driving, thick wooden blocks taped to the gas and brake pedals, (Valentine). Yes I drove to a fire with the blocks still on. Ho, Ho. Anyway, Big Fun, and I do miss the daily kidding around.
I just wanted to say
hi and let you know about retirement.
After I retired Linda and I moved to
We also still tour on
motorcycles and I just sold Bob Spurr's old Goldwing that I had for years. Thanks again Bob for keeping it so nice. Linda and I went cross country three times on
it and we are currently awaiting a new one, which I will be picking up in
See you soon,
Jer
Hello Rich: Wanted to get on your e-mail listing for the
Bresnan Dist. I retired on
Stan Farrelle
Well Rich, as you saw, the turn out this year was even smaller than last years luncheon. Here is a list of those that did attend. Connie and I are at a loss as to what else we could do to entice the retirees to attend this once a year function:
Connie and me, You, Ron Johnson, Emil MacDonald, Jim Dorpinghaus, Mike and
Priscilla Fitzgerald, Paul Smith, Bruce Ghezzi, Lennie Orr, Daymon Orr, Kay
Dana and Beth, Buddy Figueira, Ed Bennotti, Ed Stoner, George Sliva.
While there at Harry’s, we were visited by a chief I believe
was from Emeryville. He said he was having lunch with some other chiefs from
the area. Probably wasn't from
It was great to see those that did show up. No one from the
I have also sent an a-mail to Bill Peters about a bar-be-que at his place, we had a couple of them in the past, and it was great.
Floyd
If you knew Gil, you knew he was a dry wit, but sometimes he would have us rolling on the floor!!!
When brand new Station #1 was opened in the seventies, it had an intercom system. You could talk to anyone from the ready room. It was a great new innovation!!!
One morning while we were washing up to go home in the large modern bathroom, the following conversation was heard, between Captain Jack Wood and Gil!!
Wood: Gil Are you there I need to see you!!
Gil: Silence
Wood: Gill I know your are in there!!!
Gil: What do you want WALL?????
Another time Gil told us the story of a cat he had owned, it had lost it's tail to an old belt driven refrigerator!
Every time the refrigerator would start up, the cat would raise up , arch it's back and hiss!!!
If you knew Gil picture him telling that story and imitating the cat, he got us every time.
Gil was on one of the first crews I ever worked on. It has been 38 years ago and I still remember Gil Jenike!!!
Rest in peace Gil,
Ralph Johnson
Fred
Biscotti and I can not be there [The
Nabonne Luncheon]. We have had a very difficult winter. For 3
months we could not see out of our windows due to the great deal of snow.
It is very hard not to have sunlight or light, and then not to see grass
or trees, and to not get off this mountain we live on. The sun is
out, and the
Please tell
all of Fred’s brother's, that we both appreciate what they did for us when
Fred was so sick with Cancer. It was their love, emails, letters, and
visits, and calls that kept him alive, with God above blessing us so greatly.
I know it
would do Fred a world of good to see the men he worked with and loves.
Please relay that for us, please.
God bless
you all, and God bless our troops, and
Pam and
Fred Biscotti
from
Joe Banchero:
Hi Rich,
Here are
a couple of pictures from a bike ride I did while on
By the way all the retired guys are right, what's not to like about retirement!!!!!!
Joe B.
3/12/2008
from Daily Review, sent by Kay Dana:
"Our" Bill Wood Jr.'s
Dad. KAD:
Former Hayward Assistant Fire Chief Wood dies
Longtime public servant was best known as 'right-hand man' for politician Matt Jimenez
, FROM STAFF REPORTS
Article Created:
HAYWARD — William "Woody" Wood Sr., a man known as the "right-hand man" for legendary Hayward politician Matt Jimenez, died Wednesday, March 5, 2008. He was 80.
Mr. Wood was also a notable public servant in his own right,
serving as a
The Hayward City Council adjourned its weekly meeting in his honor Tuesday.
Mr. Wood was one of
But in recent decades, he was perhaps best known in
Born on
He was preceded in death by his wife of 46 years, Betty (Leedom). He is survived by two children, several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
A funeral service will be held noon Saturday at Sorensen
Brothers Funeral Home, 1140 B St. Sworn personnel will be wearing their Class A
uniforms. Visitation will also be on Saturday, beginning at
After the service, burial will be at
Thanks Chief,
I will forward this to Rich Ferguson ASAP.
-----Original Message-----
From: McKenna, Brian, ACFD
Sent:
To: Martin, Vincent, ACFD
Cc: Knowles, Aisha, ACFD; Lord, David, ACFD; Rice, Daniel, ACFD
Subject: Luster Knight Update
Thanks for putting out this information Vince. I appreciate the inclusion of planning as well.
I believe that we should share this information with our retirees via Rich Ferguson and the Bresnan Distributor as well.
To the best of my knowledge when financial hardships arose during these types of situations the ACFFA & L-55 were approached for assistance. I informed Mike Abele of Luster's condition yesterday. Given that John Torres has himself been a victim of this disease I would expect his consideration and insight invaluable.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Luster and his entire family.
Thank you all very much for being there for them.
Sincerely & fraternally,
Brian
----- Original Message -----
From: Martin, Vincent, ACFD
To: Lord, David, ACFD
Cc: Knowles, Aisha, ACFD; Rice, Daniel, ACFD; McKenna, Brian, ACFD
Sent: Fri Mar 07
Subject: Luster Knight Update
Dear Chief Lord,
The following issues and results discussed with Luster are listed below:
Workmen's Comp paperwork (for presumptive) - Luster was gracious of Chief Lords offer to help file proper paperwork for presumptive. Vince asked him if he could be in administration on Monday, as he said yes. Chief Lord is to get back to us on a good time to come. Luster thought it would be good for our people to know which cancer's are effecting our members so we can continue to be better prepared in preventative measures.
General ACFD e-mail notification to all ACFD about Luster condition. Luster agreed to have a general e-mail put out about his condition. I told him Ms. Knowles would contact him regarding specifically what would be relayed to the membership. He agreed with my suggestion to have no calls so he could prepare for upcoming treatment and appointments.
Chief Lord, when Aisha obtains an approved statement I have been authorized to put this out. I would like to verify if this is okay with you for me to put out or if you desire for this information be distributed by ACFD Fire Administration.
Support for L. Knight at appointments etc. - Luster stated that initially he would like Vince Martin, Dan Rice or Aisha to accompany him to appointments etc.. Vince mentioned that since Both Rice and him were on the same shift, Luster could consider others besides ourselves and Aisha. He mentioned to let him consider who else he'd like to have assist. Vince notified Aisha to comprise an appointment date schedule a month in advance so we could make sure Luster will be accommodated to all appointments. Ms. Knowles will follow up.
ACFD family Volunteers to assist with future needs. Luster initially wants to have time to reflect on what he really needs at this time. Luster has his brother and a daughter (in his words) who is coming to be with him for the near future. I told him Chief's Lord and McKenna, the 55 Association and many others such as Carlene have given a word of support in any way there's a need. He will go through Vince and Aisha for getting out any specific requests for assistance. Vince suggested the Luster consider comprising a list of people he feel comfortable with helping him out from cutting the yard to retrieving prescriptions. Vince will probably start a voluntary donation request of $10.00 bucks per ACFD member to purchase what ever items are needed in the future from a pre - established fund (The Luster Knight Fund). What do you guy's think?
Respectfully submitted,
Vince
3/5/2008
from Bill Robertson:
Hi Rich
Just back from visiting with my wife, checked my
Email and saw the article about Gil. I had been in touch with him and his
wife Adelaide since the both of us have been retired. He had been in
failing health for the past few years, but his wife and I would keep in touch
at Xmas time anyway. I was quite shocked to see that she had passed away
ahead of him.
Gil and I had worked together with Ray Jannson
when Ray was our Captain at the old #1 Fire Station behind the City Hall.
Ray was kind enough to call and let me know about Gil’s wife passing
away, so I wasn’t expecting Gil to join her so soon. Life goes on though,
but in a lot of ways that we least expect it.
You have no idea what it means for all of the
work that you do to keep us old fogies informed. Most of us after
retirement have gone our separate ways, but you do all of us a great service,
by keeping us abreast of life after the Fire Service. I greatly
appreciate what you have done and have continued doing. My sincere
THANKS.
Bill
Robertson
3/5/2008
from Frank Gattoni:
Hi Rich, Frank here!
Cindy and I are very involved again this year in the American Cancer Society's Relay For Life. I was hoping that you would post the following info on the Bresnan Site.
This is a 24 Hour event and takes place on April 26th and 27th. The event raises money for patient services, education, and research.
If you feel that you can help, you can make a contribution to the American Cancer Society and send it to us here, 15204 Ridgewood Dr. Sonora, Ca 95370. We need to receive contributions by the first part of April.
One of the highlights of the event is the Luminary Ceremony at dusk. Candles are placed in bags weighted down with sand. They are lit at dusk and remain so through the night until the next morning. The bags have names of loved ones who are cancer survivors or in memory of those who have lost their lives to this disease. The suggested donation for each bag is $10.00 and we would be honored to walk in memory of your loved ones. The idea is to have someone from the team walking on the track at all times for the twenty - four hour event. Thanks in advance for any help you can give us for this worthy cause. The event is here in Tuolumne County. It's at Summerville High Schools track. The school is on Tuolumne Road. The entire inside of the track is lined with teams and members from the teams are on the track walking at all times. There are activities going on and food brought in. It's a really nice turnout for an area of our size. It gives you a really good feeling to see so many people give their weekend for such a good cause. Take care and say hi to all for me. Best to all.
Frank
Frank and Cindy Gattoni
2/21/2008
from Bob Moore:
Rich,
Leave for New Zealand for the month of March, then in a couple of months my sweetie and I head for the Dolomites in Italy. How lucky we all are. Thanks for all that you do.
B.M.
2/9/2008
from Roy Jones:
Dear Rich,
I am not sure when I sent you some money for the Bresnan so it must be about time. Thank you for all you do. I like reading the letters you put on the website. I enjoyed Roberton’s letter. He mentioned Joe Neves. He and his wife, Marygrace spend their winters in Yuma and their address is 11281 Clara Anita Drive, Yuma, AZ 85367.
Phone # I have for them is 520-342-0467. Also Arvo Wallenius and wife Dorothy live at
Thanks again,
2/3/2008
from Gary Henthorn:
Hi Rich,
Do you have a PayPal account? People could donate
online?
Thanks for all your effort! I don't see very many working FD personnel so the Bresnandistributor is a good way for me to keep informed.
I'm still riding Dirt Bikes all around
I really miss uh eer
that place I use to err--- Well I do miss the guy's!!!!! I have a lot of
respect for most that I worked with. And I'll
never forget the great respect they showed me.
I'm proud to call them my friends.
I seen the good times and witnessed the bad. I'm a better person from seeing
them both!
Keep up the great job your doing, it's terrific!
Thank you,
(I do have a PayPal account of my own, but I
don’t want to mix it up with the Bresnan stuff.
At some point in the future I will probably have an official Bresnan
Bank Account and open up a Bresnan PayPal. FERG <><)
1/30/2008
from Ralph Johnson:
Greetings from Ralph and Julie Johnson. Come visit, bring a shovel!!!!!!!
1/29/2008
from FERG: I just got back from a banjo camp in Boulder
Colorado. I was not able to link up to
the web site while I was there. I want
to pass on this info:
Rich,
Just a note to let you know what has transpired this last month.
I had to go to New York as my step-mother had a heart attack on Jan 13. While she was in the hospital, my dad passed away on Jan 17. He was 90, and had been on O2 more and more for the last 2-1/2 years. Since Sept '07 he had been getting worse, and was totally house bound for the last month. This drastic lifestyle change was not his style. He broke ribs in December before Christmas, so I knew this would not be good. My sisters and I were there, and he knew were there. He died at home as comfortable as we could make him. My step-mother is home, and doing as well as can be considering she had 70% blockage, a stint and defibrillator installed.
I will miss this coming months breakfast, but will keep you all in thought and prayer.
Tom
And this info from Dino Zoggas:
Rich ,
I wanted to let you know my Dad also passed on Dec.28.
God Bless,
Dino
12/24/2007From
Tom Neuerburg
From: Charlberg, Jerome
ACFD
Sent: Monday, December 24, 2007 12:59 PM
Subject: Greetings from Captain Rod McGrew (ACF Retired)
Captain Rod McGrew called Station
17 today and wanted to wish everyone a happy holiday season. He is doing
well, fishing, ranching, punching lil’ doggies, etc.
. He would like to extend congratulations to the newly promoted
Captains. He was amazed that Lenny Patane would
even entertain the thought of moving, especially to El Dorado Hills and wishes
you well Lenny. It was good to hear his voice and he sounded really
good. He really had a good time fishing with Gazdik
and was able to catch up on the going ons here.
Also for you 48/96ers, Petaluma and Roseville (he has one son working for each)
are going to it and the personnel there are excited about the change. It
was good to hear a voice from the not so distant past.
For those who do not know
Captain McGrew, he was around since dirt and could ‘read’ wildfires better than
most people who get paid to ‘read’ them. He was also a good dozer
operator from what I hear although I never got to see that side of him.
He was someone I looked up to and wished I could have learned more from him
while he was here. I never got the opportunity to work with him except
for a day here and there.
Anyway, he sounded good and
wanted to have relayed that he hopes everyone stays safe and has a great
upcoming year.
Respectfully
Submitted,
Jerry Charlberg Captain
ACF
Station 3 'C'
San
Leandro, Ca. 94578
510-670-5883
12/22/2007
from Mike Wiley (retired Florida FF):
RICH:
I came across your web site for your retirees organization and I am very impressed. I handle the email for the Anne Arundel County Maryland Retired Firefighters. We do not have our own web site, but do have space on the Locals site (local 1563 IAFF). Our group is about 5 years old and we have close to 200 members. We do allow those still on the job that have more than 20 years to join as associate members (without voting rights). We have 2 lunch/reunions, and 1 breakfast a year in the county. Plus we have enough members living in Florida that we have a huge 3 day event there. Many of us still living in MD go to that.
I send out group emails for important events, (deaths, sickness, pension issues etc.) After seeing your web site I am inspired to try and get more formal.
Have a Merry Christmas from your brothers on the East Cost.
Mike Wiley
email coordinator
AA Co. Ret F/Fs.
PS:
Our county runs south from Baltimore City protects close to 1/2 million people, over 800 uniformed personnel, plus some certified volunteers. We have everything from heavy industry to rolling farmland, many upscale houses from Washington DC workers, plus miles of shoreline on the Chesapeake Bay.
12/6/2007
from Kevin Johnson:
“Gentleman” Start your engines!!!!!!!
The “First In Car club” is back in service…..
Kevin Johnson and I will be getting the car club back together after falling on its face at the get go last year. Initiation Fees are $30.00 the first year. That is to cover the cost of the T-Shirts. Those members that filled out the application last year will only pay the yearly dues $25.00. This club is only for Alameda County Fire Employees and Retirees. This is a non Profit Organization. Any proceeds will go to A.A.R.B.F an ECT.
We made some changes on the t-shirts art work. You can read it now. They look good. I will be putting together a list of shows in the area for next year. Mark this one down now “Kool April Nights” in Redding Ca. April 18-22, 2008. I have the applications. If you want one contact me.
Applications for the club will be available on line in the unofficial board and at Station #6.
If you need to contact one of us, call Kevin or Me at Station # 6 or cell phone.
Kevin 916-847-2348
Steve 925-765-0758
Station 6 510-670-5886
12/3/2007Some
photos from Tom Neuerburg:
12/3/2007
from Dick Kolda:
My ACFD family.
Kim's dad passed away November 13th. It was sudden and quick and most likely an M.I. secondary to a blood clot after repeated left femur fractures. He had been living with us in Discovery Bay for 3 1/2 years and we were with him when died. He has had several surgical procedures on his left hip and femur which fractured 2 1/2 years ago. He recently returned from the fourth surgery to rebuild the femur/artificial hip.
His death is with mixed blessings. At 76 we thought
he's plug along a long while. But, Birk was
suffering from Parkinson's Disease for 26 years. However, he did manage
to escape the ravages of late stage PD. He was of sharp mind,
computer savvy, humor and memory. Please remember Kim and her two sisters and Birk's grandchildren and great grandchildren. We had
a memorial last Saturday at which he was honored by his family and
friends. He will be missed. No longer will we hear his
distinctive "Key-yum!" (
` Thanks,
Dick
12/2/2007
from Bill Robertson:
Rich:
Thought that I would give you a little history that includes
Vince Calcagno being hired into the Fire Department.
On March 16, 1949 the City of San Leandro hired 8
men. The reason for the hiring was due to a large fire in the City that
required the Oakland Fire Dept. to come in on
Mutual Aid as
The citizens said
The men hired consisted of Vince Calcagno, Joe Neves, Tony Costa, George Koch, Roy Jones. Al Sukalo, Bob Sanchez
and myself. I have a picture of 7 of us being sworn in by the City Clerk
at that time, Herb Burbank, less Vince [ I think that
you also have that picture]. He was one of us hired, but he
was already employed by the City and headed the Garbage Dept at that time.
The City didn’t want him to leave that department then as they had no
replacement for him, so they let him remain in his position until they had
someone to fill that job and he was ready to assume his new job in the Fire
Department. It was something unique at that time and I doubt if anything
similar to this ever occurred again.
At this time, to my knowledge,
I think there are now only three of us left who are living.
I’m not positive about George Koch as he left
Just thought that some might be
interested in a little nostalgia. Hope I haven’t bored you or anyone
with my little tale. Hang in there everyone, we all get old
sometime.
Bill
Robertson
ACFFA Annual Christmas Party December 8:
Check the calendar
11/1/2007
from Kay Dana:
Here is a link to a newspaper article about ACFD at the SoCal fires.
http://www.insidebayarea.com/dailyreview/localnews/ci_7338771
Hi Rich
I thought I would drop you another line and thank you for all you've done over the 3 decades that I have known you. You’re a wonderful person and there is no doubt in my mind there's a place for you up there. In 1976 there was the magnificent seven that transferred from other fire departments in what the city called the Lateral Transfer Program. I think at the time it was an attempt to put more folks on the ground due to shortages and Chief Harold (Ham) Hamilton was pretty progressive. The transferees were, Ernie Young, Rod Mendes, Joe Ferreira, Rick Saliaces, Jim Nelson, Horace Gill, and Ted McGee. All good men, with good hearts, as all firemen are. As I look over a life of fire fighting that spans more then 38 years and I look at all the pictures of folks that I grew up with in San Leandro, the stories just run wild through my mind. Keep up the good work, and like told you before. Please let folks know I am alive and still raising the roof. No need to slow down now. After 55 there is no speed limit. Oh did I tell you I have 6 children, my youngest child is 4 yrs old, my Oldest is 32. Life is good. All are doing great and all healthy. Same for the grandkids all 8 of them, soon to be 9. My oldest Daughter Erica still lives in Hayward and just had her second son, my oldest son Nathan is a Deputy Sheriff for Siskiyou County, has 3 kids and is doing great, even after a year in Iraq with the Marines. Kristen lives in Pinegrove Ca. with her son, Jeremiah lives in Cottage Grove Ore, with his wife and two sons and one more on the way in Dec, works for the Forest Service and is a Squad Boss on a Hotshot Handcrew, Dale (named after Valentine) lives in Orleans, works for the Forest service and is a Squad Boss on a Hotshot Handcrew also, and in his spare time he cage fights and free style wrestles. My youngest is Aidan, he is four, is a Hoopa Tribal member and just makes me happy to be alive. Here are some pics for you. Have fun Ferg.
Use them if you wish, all or some. Thanks
Rodney C. Mendes
Division Chief
Six Rivers NF
Supervisors Office
Phone: 530-598-9363
"FIRE GIVES THE TEST JUST AHEAD OF THE LESSON"
10/24/2007
from Tom Neuerburg:
From: Chase, William ACFD
Sent: Tuesday, October 23, 2007 11:40 AM
Subject: 3443 status in SoCal
I spoke to Capt Davison this
a.m. and he reported that their strike team (XAL 2002 Alpha) was working the
fire near Magic Mountain in Valencia. I can’t remember the name of the fire.
Anyway, he said they were assigned structure protection, as seen on TV, with
pretty good success throughout the day. He also commented on the cleared out
defensible space a lot of the homeowners had already established which helped
in their success. Apparently some very large estates.
He said they stayed at a
holiday inn express near Magic Mountain for a good nights rest.
Apparently they are being
reassigned to another fire somewhere else down there and they were getting
ready to head out as of 0830 this A.M. Everyone is healthy and rested.
Hopefully you’ve had the
chance to see him on the channel 2 news. I think they have him looped cuz he’s been on about 8 times. Gotta
be some kind of record pie & I bounty for all the face time.
Bill Chase, Capt.
ACFD Station 9
10/21/2007
from Ralph Johnson:
Some good news. My 60th surprise birthday party, a great time was had by all. Many of my old workmates made the trip, what a special time it was for me!!!!!
(I will probably have more photos in the next
newsletter—FERG <><)
10/21/2007
from Tom Neuerburg:
From: Pegadiotes,
Pete, ACFD
Sent: Thursday, October 18, 2007 1:03 PM
Subject: New Zipton Arrival
Everyone,
Casey and
his wife Amanda are the proud new parents of a baby boy. I didn’t have a chance
to talk to him very long and get any particulars however he and mom are very
excited.
Take care,
Pete…
10/18/2007
from Tom Neuerburg:
From: Moore, Eric, ACFD
Sent: Wednesday, October 17, 2007 8:03 PM
To: ALL ACFD
Subject: New Arrival!
Welcome the new addition
Gavin
Andrew Whalley
Born
7 pounds 4 ounces
20 inches long
Mom and baby are doing well and recovering at home
10/11/2007
from Floyd Nabonne:
Rich:
As I mentioned at the EBFFC bible study session, I would like to see the retirees recognition be extended a little in the ALCO Fire Department. We were given a membership card that made us members of this department, but aside from the appreciation lunch and the retirees' breakfast/lunch, we are not informed as to happenings other than about other retirees.
I was disappointed to see in the paper the day after that there had been a memorial service at the Neighborhood Church. I would have liked to have attended this. I would also like to be informed of other happenings in the department such as notices of new hires, promotions, as well as retirements.
I considered becoming a member of the Highway Patrol volunteer program. The H.P. is paid from the state for the hours that the volunteers put in. I myself would be willing to donate some time to the fire department, if they had some kind of program for the retirees to contribute time to.
Recently at one of the appreciation lunches, I approached a chief from the department and expressed a desire to even travel to other areas such as for helping out at the Katrina disaster area as well as the 911 in New York. I would pay my own way as long as I could travel with the members sent from the department. I could be of some service working in the background I'm sure, some how. I was unceremoniously told that if I wanted to volunteer, I should contact the Red Cross.
When Loma Preata hit, I was still working for the San Leandro Fire Department. I helped out in my neighborhood to insure that neighbors and family were safe and then I reported to old Station 2 (then the Davis St. station). If (God forbid) we ever have a major disaster in our community, I will probably do the same thing in my neighborhood and then go to volunteer my help by going to Station 4.
Maybe some one there can direct me to the nearest Red Cross center. :)
Floyd
10/10/2007
from Vic Mumford:
Rich, I would like to pass on the feelings of the family to you and all my Dads brothers and friends that attended or said a prayer on Saturday.
We would also like to thank all who sent flowers, donations and cards. The love and caring we felt could not be explained in words. Our family will continue on remembering our father and the memorial not with sadness but happiness that he touched many people in his life time.
Early next year, the family plans on taking him and my mom to Maui to a special place they loved. You know, Dad never learned to swim (go figure being a Merchant Marine) but I guarantee he will learn quickly!
Aloha and Mahalo
Victor Mumford
10/8/2007
from Tom Neuerburg:
from Eric Frago
Hello to all,
I just want to say thank you to all that participated in the Alisa Ann Ruch Burn Foundation Golf Tournament this year. The Tournament was a big success this year raising around $13,000 that will be donated to the Burn Foundation. A special thanks to the Golf committee that makes this event possible. Without Ryan Davis, Ben Guild, Brian Centoni Kathie Schmiechen, it would be extremely difficult to run this Tournament. They all put in a number of hours to make it happen. A Big Thank You also needs to go out to all the helpers that take time to come out on the day of the tournament to help. That includes Joe Banchero, Gary Centoni, Rhonda Leen, Ericka Rardin, The Cocktail Girls from Aaron Lee, Ken Horton and his wife, Bill Potts, Denise from Carlene's and anyone else I may have forgotten. Hope everyone had a great time and we hope to see you out there next year. Stay Safe.
Sincerely,
E. Frago 10A
10/1/2007
from Bill Robertson:
Hi Fergie..
Sorry to be so late in getting back to you with this donation, but have been busy with a multitude of things.
Last February, it was imperative for me to place my wife, Joey, into a facility that caters to Alzheimer’s and Dementia patients. Not only did she wander on me on 3 different occasions, but incontinence overtook her also. It is a tough-row to-hoe after being together for almost 58 years.
I was able to take care of her for the first 5 years, but family said it was getting beyond me and my 82 years of age. My 3 great kids, two daughters, and my son, have been nothing short of inspiration and help making sure that all is going well towards her care. My son is near at hand where he lives, if needed, and she is located, in Petaluma.
I'm still here in Clear Lake and know that I'm finally going to have to leave, after being here almost 26 years, but facing reality, it is inevitable, just not sure when that time will be. It is a good 2 hours drive for me to get to her location and I try to see her at least once a week, but not always possible. There is lots for me to do in the meantime.
You take care, hope your hand is healed up OK. Give my hello's to all of my old friends and co-workers. I have been retired now almost as long as I worked [30 yrs]. Hardly seems possible, but I've enjoyed every minute of this retirement, all except these last few years when mother nature played- a dirty trick on us.
As Ever
BilI Robertson
10/3/2007
from Joe Ferreira:
Rich.
As you already know, Ellen and I moved to Greenwood Ca. almost three years ago. Since then Ellen has furthered her education and has become a wound care nurse. She works for Kaiser Permanente in Sacramento.
I have been bouncing from part time jobs. Most recently, I worked for Galaxie Marine in Newcastle CA. I was sort of the service writer for customers when they brought their boat in for repair. I also answered the phones and did some parts ordering. I purchased a 18' Duckworth aluminum boat and have been doing a lot of fishing with Ellen. She is a real trooper and doesn't mind it too much when I wake her at 4AM to head out to one of the local lakes for a day of fishing.
My mother passed away last month. As her executor, I have been very busy attending to her affairs.
Say hello to anyone that you might run across from San Leandro Fire for me.
Joe Ferreira
9/28/2007
fromi Greg Fernandez:
Hey Rich and all our working and retired
Buddies1111
Mary and I are in Branson Missouri for a couple of days. We started off Saturday Sept. 15th up highway 80 through Reno through Salt Lake and Wyoming. I felt the souls of John McClintic, Tim Terzian and Vince Davis as we traveled through hunting country111 We parked our trailer on a patch of my old roommates 5 acers in a little ol town called Buck Grove Iowa where college football on a Saturday is like a national holiday. Cow patty bingo is played during half time of the Friday night Dennison High which by the way is the birthplace of the beautiful Donna Reed of It’s a wonderful life fame. Football game!!! What is cow patty bingo? They grid off a section of the football field, put numbers on it and bring out a cow, hopefully the cow just ate. What ever numbered grid the pooped up patty lands on YOU ARE THE WINNER!!!!!! I will try to send some pictures!!!
Having a ball no bull
Greg Fernandez
God bless all of the ALCO family
9/27/2007
from Scott Colagross (John’s son):
Hi Rich,
Just want to thank you from our family for the posting you did for the death and service for my dad. It was great to see some of the guys I grew up with while my dad was working. I want to thank the firefighters union for sending the beautiful flower arrangement.
My mother wishes to extend her thanks and love to all those who attended and could not attend. I think we are all in denial that dads gone, he was taken so fast from us. For all those "old timers" that she hasn't heard from for awhile, give her a call, I'm sure she would love to hear from you. 209-931-7820.
Thanks again, Scott
9/24/2007
from Rod Mendes:
Hi Rich,
Hope all is well. It’s been 12 yrs since I left the FD and I sure do miss a lot of great people. I didn’t know if you had my email at work and also I have a yahoo email I use to do personal; stuff.
Let me know if you want more info. Maybe I could do a little story for you of where and what I have been doing these last 12 yrs if your interested.
A lot of changes and then again, no matter how we change, we always stay the same. I would love to get the Bresnan if you can add me to the mailing list. Is there a cost involved??
I talked to Mick Roark this morning and he told me your still doing this newsletter, and its a good thing as far as I am concerned. I did look at an issue of your news letter and it is so nice to see so many familiar faces. Makes me wanna move back to the Bay Area , well maybe just visit. It’s hard to leave Northen CA. Heres a few pics if you wanna see how the old man has aged. Also a picture I took of
Denny Hopken 12 yrs ago when we had recliners in old station 4 at 143rd.
its okay to share my email address with whomever. I would love to hear from anyone thats interested in saying hello.
Hoppy >
9/23/2007
from Fred & Pam Biscotti:
Pam and I are saddened by this news. Gene went a
long way with me. We were brothers. I sit here, qt this minute, and
wish to God I could do something to take the pain from his dear family.
Yes I have been blessed by beating Cancer, but I truly was
blessed to have worked with Gene Mumford.
There are many great and funny things I could say.
This is not the time.
I just know that John 3:16 tells me that Gene is walking the
walk now, as he is in a good place. God bless him, as he joins another
brother new to Heaven, John Colorgross.
To tell the truth, it is just to much for an old man like me to digest. It gets to where I am afraid of who is next. I say Cancer stay away from my brothers and I, and may God bless us all.
John Colagross was truly on my Engine. He lived near by for a long time. He and
his wife welcomed us in their home many times.
My biggest memory of him are the years we spent together working on the old Seagrave, and working at the old flea market. We did that to raise funds to rebuild the Seagrave. As many will remember, it was nothing when we got it, it was a piece of junk.
We worked hard, and made that old Seagrave something to behold. We had a lot of laughs. We were there for each other. When we got together, we were family.
Pam and I really want everyone to know, like Chief Pedroni would say, they were the golden years. All of us that were there, I know feel it deep, real deep. We can never get it back, what we had then. But that's ok, cause we always have the memory.
I want Scott to know we are there for his family, and it is tough.
I don't know what else to say.
Fred and Pam Biscotti
9/20/2007
from Victor Mumford:
Rich, I am sad to report that Emory passed away on the 11th of Sept. This was a hard year and a half for dad as I wrote you about in June but he never gave up. His Memorial service will be held @ The Castro Valley Masonic Center on Oct 6th @ 2:00pm. All are welcome. I have included his Photo and the Obit that will be in the Sunday paper. I am also so very sad to here about John Colagross Passing. Our family's prayers go out to Scott and his family as we also feel there sadness.
Emory Eugene Mumford was
born Dec. 23, 1927 in Dayton Ohio and passed on this day Sept 11, 2007 in
Castro Valley, CA. He was established in this small valley for over 50 years
and gained many friends within that time. A retiree of Castro Valley Fire Dept,
and loyal member of Castro Valley Masonic Lodge, His passion for life was
noticed by all that looked upon him. Although he had many accomplishments, his
most cherished was that of his family. Succeeded in life is two children,
daughter Rosemarie and Ron Brekelmans of Brentwood
Ca. Son Victor & Charnell Mumford
of Gilroy CA. Sister Eunice and Gerald Schuetz of
Stockton CA. Sister in-Law Beverly Mumford of
Stockton CA. Sister in-Law Constance White of Newark CA. and many other
treasured nieces, nephews and Grandchildren.
A celebration of Life will be held
The Family requests Donations in lue
of flowers to American Cancer Society in his honor.
9/19/2007 from Scott Colagross:
If you can inform on your web page that my father, John Colagross, who retired with 30 yrs. on CVFD with a retirement date of 1989, passed away on Tues. the 18th from a very short but aggressive bout with lung cancer. The memorial service is being held on Sunday the 23rd of Sept. at the First Baptist Church of Linden.
17580 E hiway 26
Linden Ca. 95236
At 1400 hrs
Any questions you can call me, Scott, his son at 209-505-0794
Thanks for your assistance.
Summer is beautiful up in Paradise, a great place to retire, come up and check it out.
Ralph & Julie Johnson
9/6/2007 from Renee
Solomon:
FERG,
Sorry it has taken me so long
to get back to you but the last year and a half have been hard. When you know someone since you were 15 and
married at 17, for 36 years, I’m still adjusting. But the boys are helping and I will be a
grandma with God’s help in March. Thanks
for sending the Bresnan. Take care.
Renee Solomon
9/4/2007
from Aisha Knowles:
Retirement Celebration
The Alameda County Fire Department
invites you to celebrate the retirement of
Firefighter Luster
Knight
A gathering will be held in his honor on
Reception
Presentations
Alameda County Fire Station #10
Please confirm your attendance by calling 618-3479 or
Email aisha.knowles@acgov.org
8/29/2007
The 2007 Local 55 Union Picnic will be held on Saturday, October 6, 2007 at Oakland's Lake Temescal from 12 noon to 6:00 p.m. Friends and family are invited to attend. There will be plenty of food and drinks as well as games for the kids.
For more information contact Lawrence Hom at station 8 "B" or Pablo Cruz at station 8 "C" at 510-238-4008.
Hope to see you there!