Old Mail #9: To go to Old Mail #8 click here
12/9/2010 from Pat Corbiere:
Hi Rich,
It's that time of year to send dough for the Bresnan. Also,
I wanted to thank you for coming to my book signing. I hope you enjoyed the book
and understand that I used some of those scenes in it to show comparisons that
there is a right and wrong way to show our love towards others. As you can tell
from the story, I may have issues with my church on some matters, but I hold
onto my faith dearly. It seems to be the only thing out there that makes sense.
You can also see that I used the fire fighting medium
as a snare for our hard-headed fire fighter friends to hear my messages of what
is truly important in this life. I hope some of them got it. By the way, one of
the gals who works in the city hall here in Mill Creek
has a husband who is a retired firefighter. She bought my book for him for
Christmas, and after we had talked about the spiritual aspects of my book, she
mentioned that I might be interested in meeting for breakfast with a group of
Seattle firefighter for Christ her husband belongs to. She says they have been
in contact with a group of firefighters for Christ from Northern California. I
was wondering if it was you or Vincent. Her name is Kathy Hundahl.
Small world. I ran into her because the City of Mill
Creek is doing a artist
profile with some of my oil paintings in city hall. Well, I got to get going.
I've got to send Frank his first royalty check from the book. He'll be able to
buy a Big Mac with it. I don't think Frank or I will be getting rich on this.
It would be nice to just break even on the expenditures, but that's okay. This
is Frank and Pat's exciting adventure. Tell the guys there to have a Happy and
Holy Christmas and don't forget the reason for the season.
take care fergi
and I still think about that '57chev. someday!
Pat Corbiere
12/8/2010 from Aisha Knowles:
Greetings
Holiday Toy Program Helpers,
To prepare for this year’s Holiday Toy Drive, toy bins have been
distributed to local businesses and amongst a majority of our fire houses
throughout the past week. Also, as in past years, the good ole’ turkey bucket
will start making its way from station to station. Let’s continue the
tradition of donating $20 each to provide turkeys and chickens for all of the
families that will be receiving assistance at non-profit organizations that we
are supporting this holiday season.
Our Holiday Toy Drive not only supports the efforts of the Davis Street
Family Resource Center, which serves the unincorporated areas of the County and
San Leandro, but community based organizations such as Tri-Valley Haven and
Shepherds’ Gate in Livermore, Girls Inc. of Alameda County, Building Futures
with Women and Children, CALICO, Hope for the Heart, Veterans of Foreign Wars,
etc. This year, our efforts will also support organizations in the
Tri-City area such as Women in Crisis, Tri-Cities League of Volunteers and the
Viola Blythe Center.
Here are some key things to keep in mind this holiday season:
Please instruct people with check donations to make them payable to
Alameda County Fire Fighters Association (ACFFA). After
which, contact me at Station 9C or via email and I will arrange a pick up.
For requests in Union City, please contact Xavier Polleau,
33C and in Newark, please contact Tony Connell, 28A and at the Livermore Lab
please contact Jim Watkins, 20B or Steve Walker, 20C.
Forward any requests for toy bins or toy pick-ups, other special holiday
requests in the unincorporated areas, San Leandro or Dublin to me, in Union
City, please forward the information to Xavier Polleau,
at the Livermore Lab forward the info to Steve Walker or Jim Watkins and in
Newark, please forward the details to Tony Connell. Please copy Aisha on
these messages so that we may track all of our holiday efforts and ensure that
appropriate resources (if available) are allocated to the request.
Coordinating the Dublin Toy Program will be led by me and Aisha,
therefore please direct all Dublin Holiday Toy Program related
questions/requests via email to both of us.
I would strongly like to encourage new firefighters to participate in
our Holiday Toy Drive and Santa at the Fire House events. We have
experienced many retirements and promotions, and there is a strong need for our
newer generation to assist in making the Holiday Toy Program a continued success.
If you’re interested in volunteering at an
event this holiday season, please mark your calendars with the following dates:
The Davis Street Family Resource Center Senior
& Family Distribution (3081 Teagarden Street, San Leandro)
Distribution dates: (Seniors)
Tuesday, December 21st from 0900 – 1700 hours and (Families)
Wednesday, December 22nd from 0900 – 1700 hours
The Viola Blythe Center in Newark
Wrapping & Canned Food Sorting
Nights: December 13th, 14th and 15th
from 1730 – 1930 hours at 7730 Enterprise Drive, Newark
Wrapping & Canned Food Sorting
Nights: December 18th from 1100
to 1500 hours at Schilling Elementary School, 36901 Spruce Street, Newark
(To confirm your attendance to help with
wrapping & canned food sorting, please contact Debbie Caravalho
@ 510-794-3437)
Santa at the Fire House Events
(Assistance is needed baking cookies, playing
Santa, reading “A Firefighter’s Night Before
Christmas,” meeting & greeting community members, set-up and clean-up)
Saturday, December 11th from 1130
to 1530 hours at Station 10
Sunday, December 12th from 1130 to
1530 hours at Station 25
Saturday, December 18th from 1130
to 1530 hours at Station 18
Saturday, December 19th from 1130
to 1530 hours at Station 9
Miscellaneous Help
If you’re not able to attend any of these
events and would still like to help, we have plenty of tasks to go around…from
picking up bins/toys, helping distribute flyers for Santa at the Fire House,
etc. Let us know what you have time to do and we’ll find something for you
to help out with.
Please email Aisha with the dates that you are interested in helping out
at Santa at the Fire House and Davis Street Family Resource Center so that we
have an idea of how many people we will have at each event.
Stay tuned for additional updates on our holiday giving efforts. All of
the Holiday Toy Drive and Santa at the Fire House event fliers can be found on
the Official Bulletin Board. Don’t hesitate to let us know if you have any
questions or need additional information.
Thank you for this opportunity and I look forward to the wonderful
things we can do for our communities this holiday season.
Thank you,
Aisha Knowles for James Cobb
Holiday Toy Drive Coordinator
Aisha
Knowles
Public
Information Officer/
Community Outreach
Coordinator/
Webmaster
Alameda
County Fire Department
Office:
510.618.3479/925.556.4584
Fax:
510.618-3445
Email:
aisha.knowles@acgov.org
www.acgov.org/fire
www.twitter.com/AlamedaCoFire
12/4/2010 from Darlene Damin-Fujita:
I asked what she had been up to………….FERG
Well, for the past 10 days or so we've been shoveling
snow! We got about 5 feet over a period of 3-4 days, trees went down all
over (including next door), knocking out power lines right and left. I
slipped on the ice and bonked my head. We had no power or phone service
(landline or cell), for four days. Power lines were on the road so
traffic couldn't go through. We were okay, though, 'cuz we have a wood stove for heat, and the stove top is
propane. I just couldn't use the oven and couldn't tell the kids we were
okay. We had Thanksgiving dinner at a restaurant owned by a neighbor (it
was actually a lot of fun sitting and eating with perfect
strangers......several were from the San Leandro area). Sadly, we had to
cancel our annual neighborhood Christmas party because the road in to the
host's house was too full of snow and ice for safe traveling (and there are
only two houses that have a room large enough to host a sitdown
dinner for 30 people). But as someone very wise once said, "this,
too, will pass."
It's good to hear from you.......we don't get up to the Bay Area too
often. It's not just the long drive (2.5 hours),
it's the traffic when we get to the freeway! I'm not used to it any
more.......we just have two lanes up here.......sometimes only one! And
no one's in a big hurry to go anywhere.......we're already there!
Have a lovely Christmas and tell everyone hello for me. The door is
always open for any of you who want to get away for awhile.
Darlene & George
12/4/2010 from Frank Giuntoli:
Hi Rich,
I got your email to prompt me to contribute my share.
You are doing a good job putting the Bresnan letter to all
of us.
Keep up the good work.
Thank you
Sincerely
Frank
12/4/2010 from Aisha Knowles:
Hello Rich,
Thanks so much for sharing the information about the
upcoming San Leandro Santa at the Fire House Events.
Would you also please share the attached fliers for our
holiday events in Castro Valley and Dublin?
We will be hosting a Santa at the Fire House event in Castro
Valley at Station #25 on Sunday, December 12th and one in Dublin at
Station #18 on Saturday, December 18th. Each event will take place
from 11:30AM to 3:30PM.
I’ve also attached our new Toy Drive flyer if you’d like to
post it on your website.
Thanks for helping us make spirits bright this holiday
season!
Happy Holidays,
Aisha
Aisha Knowles
Community Outreach Coordinator/
Public Information Officer
Alameda County Fire Department
Direct: (510) 618-3479
Fax: (510) 618-3445
Email: Aisha.Knowles@acgov.org
Web: www.acgov.org/fire
Twitter: www.twitter.com/AlamedaCoFire
12/1/2010 from Norb
Hudak:
Hello Rich,
I have no problem contributing some money to keep the Bresnan going. But
you need to help us by telling us how much per person. The Union could
also continue to contribute because this is part of their communication as
well.
You are doing a great job with this and I thank you.
We hope that all is good with you,
Norbert and Betty
11/29/2010 from Randy Moore
Hi Rich,
I read the email from Gary Henthorn in the newsletter, this must be the time for ex-rounds people to
get married! My daughter Beth just got married a few weeks ago in San Ramon and
is living in Jacksonville, North Carolina.
Thanks for the Bresnan,
Randy Moore
11/23/2010 from John Torres:
Once again the First in car club is having an annual toy
drive. Please see Eng. Johnson's letter below, and contact him for more
information.
The event will be held Dec. 5th at Babies-R-Us in Dublin at
the Hacienda Crossings shopping center. Please help out or donate if you
can. Happy Holidays. JT...
Dear JT,
Please note that the First In Car Club is having their second annual toy
drive/car show on Sunday, December 5, 2010 in honor of Luster Knight (RIP). Another charitable event. Please post this to the Local 55
membership.
Hope to see you at this fantastic event!
Engineer Kevin
Johnson
11/16/2010 from Diane LeMoine:
Thanks for placing me on the email list. I did lose
contact with a lot of the old gang. It would be nice to hear about their
good fortunes after retirement. I, myself, am doing well. How else
can I do with the family I have. They are the
best.
Was so glad to see the fire department
honor Jim again in such a wonderful way. I do have some pictures
from the dedication. If you'd like to post some, let me know.
Again, looking forward to reading the Bresnan..............
Diane LeMoine................
10/28/2010:
It is that time of year again. We will be assisting with the
33rd annual Senior’s Thanksgiving Luncheon on Wednesday Nov. 24th
(B shift working) at the Marina Community Center located at 15301
Wicks Blvd. in San Leandro, 94579. Here is how it works, we will arrive at
0830hrs. to set up then go have breakfast, then come
back at 1115hrs. to serve. We do not stay and clean up, the City staff will take care of that part. You should
be on your way home by 1230 hrs. Please make sure you wear blue jeans and your
blue department or Union T-shirt.
For our newest members, this event has been supported by the
Firefighters for many years. It started with the San Leandro Firefighters Assn.
a long time ago and will continue with the Alameda County Firefighters. This
event is supported by both, the Union and Department and is another, of many
great opportunities, to stay connected with the communities we serve within our
organization. Please try to make time to help out with this positive event.
Hope to see you there.
Respectfully,
Mark S. Carter
Captain
Alameda County Fire
St.# 12-C
(510) 618-3472
10/1/2010:
We are looking for people to help BBQ for a fundraiser in
support of Measure Z. The event will take place September 14th in San Leandro
from 4-6pm. The City of San Leandro is putting Measure Z on this year’s ballot
to generate funding to keep Truck 9 in service. Please let me know if you can
assist. Thank You.
Contact Brent Whalley 24/BHi
++++++++++++++++++++++++++
I have not had the chance to meet everyone, my name is Christy
DeMaria and I am the volunteer field coordinator for
Measure 'Z'. I am sending you this email
through L55 as we are campaigning to save Truck 9 on Measure ‘Z’ and need ALL
ACFFA personnel to step up and volunteer for this critical measure. We have plenty
of opportunities for you to get involved!
October is crunch time and it is imperative that we get the
vote YES on Z word out to the San Leandro community.
WE NEED YOUR HELP TO MAKE IT HAPPEN! I have plenty of
volunteer opportunities to fit all schedules and highly encourage you to get
your family and friends involved as well, Below is a list of volunteer
activities to sign-up for:
1.Phone Banking (Need you ASAP!)
Monday-Thursday from
6:00-8:00pm 3081 Teagarden St. San Leandro (Davis Family Resource Center)
Sundays from 2-6pm
369 15th St. Oakland (L55 Building)
2. Precinct Walking (Families are
great walkers!) (Need you ASAP!)
Saturdays
from 10-1pm Meeting at the Davis Family Resource Center parking lot.
*We will also be
walking Station 9’s neighborhood from 9-12pm on: 9/2, 9/16, 9/30.
3.Events
Farmers Market Wednesday Evenings 9/6 & 9/20 from
4:00-8:00pm
Libraries (Before
story time)
For more information
and/or to sign-up to volunteer please call or email me and I will be sure to accommodate
your volunteer schedule with the needs of Measure ‘Z’ so we KEEP TRUCK 9 ALIVE!
Thank You,
Christy DeMaria
510-485-8779
Christy4MeasureZ@gmail.com
*This message has been approved for email distribution by
L55*
10/1/2010 from John Torres:
L-55 needs you. I know much of this seems last minute
but I have been holding off to the very very very last minute, and we are now up to our collective necks
in politics. We need you ALL to engage,
active-retired-batt 2,3,4,7, ‘A’ ‘B’ or ‘C’
shift. EVERYONE needs to help out. It is critical that we win these races. As explained on the Horses
Mouth (please read) the time is now and we need to show others in this county
who we are and what we can make happen…..
Saturday we need LOT’s of you: 1.
Walking for Measure ‘U’ in Newark (last weekend) Contact Bob Bodnar for instructions (9-12pm) We need at least 5 people 1-925-487-3136
2. Phone banking in Dublin at the
IBEW union hall (2-5pm). Contact Ramsey
Ismail if available. We need at least 5
people. 1-925-209-9488
3. Walking for Measure ‘Z’, San
Leandro. We need at least 10 people. If
you are working try to get someone to do a stand by for you and walk your
district. Contact Christy D. (field coordinator) for more info. (9-12pm). 1-510-485-8779.
4. Spaghetti feed and casino night
at the Tropics Mobile Home park, Union City. This is an annual event that is very
important to L-55. Please contact Andrew
Elliot, 1-510-415-0685 (4-8pm)5.
Sunday we need lots of you:
1. Walking for Measure ‘U’ in Newark
(last weekend) Contact Bob Bodnar for instructions (9-12pm)
We need at least 5 people 1-925-487-3136
2. Walking for Measure ‘Z’, San
Leandro. We need at least 10 people. If
you are working try to get someone to do a stand by for you and walk your
district. Contact Christy D. (field coordinator) for more info. (9-12pm). 1-510-485-8779.
3. Sausage and Suds Festival in San
Leandro. This is an annual event that
Brother Mick Roark has us helping out at.
He will need at least 3 if not more to help out during the day handing
out badges and stuff. Contact
Mick at station #13 1-510-618-3473.
Upcoming:
October 7th I have committed 5 of us (me, plus I need 4
others) to work on phone banking for CPF.
They are doing a HUGE (statewide) phone bank of FIRE FIGHTERS TO FIRE
FIGHTERS asking to vote for Jerry Brown. Chuck Garcia will have some OFD members there
and it is at the Hayward Union Hall next to station 1. After, Chuck and I are buying beers for
everyone. Should be a
cool night. Contact me if you can
help out. First 4 members get dinner
too.
Luv all y’all. JT 1-209-613-6403 jtorres@iaff55.org
9/30 from Gary Henthorn:
Hi Rich,
My Daughter Sheri just got married last Sat. in Tahoe on the
Beach. It was a small 60 people wedding/reception right on the Beach.
Everyone had a great time, although Dad did a little too
much celebrating that night---- so they tell me. Ha Ha
Ha
She and Daniel are in Hawaii for a week on their honeymoon.
She still asks how the guys are doing as she got to know many of them while
being the Rounds Person.
Here's a Pic. I don't have any good ones yet, being the Dad
I didn't get to take many Pic's.
Best Wishes,
Gary
9/28/2010 from Vince Davis:
Ferg,
Thanks always a pleasure to get
the Bresnan!!
Thanks so much for your hard work
and love for the firefighting family.
Vince
9/28/2010 from Pat Stranahan:
Hi Rich, riding out the toasty heat here in La Quinta, today is 114. Read
Corbiere's book, very impressive, he out did himself.
Local St. John's kid did good. Thanks for the Bresnan,
keep in touch, Stranny.
9/27/2010 from Jody Naas:
Hi Rich,
Rick Altemus, Jerry & Linda Skaggs and Sue and myself all made it safe to Roatan
Island, Honduras. We rented a house on Half Moon Bay in a town called
West End. Only one paved road on the island. People are very
friendly and trusting. We rode out tropical storm Matthew without any
problems-the main part of the storm went just south of us. Will be here
for 3 weeks, we will keep in touch.
Jody
9/23/2010 from John Torres:
Here we go...Newark Measure 'U' is having a walk this
Saturday and Sunday. I would like to have our Brothers and Sisters that
are assigned to stations 27, 28 and 29 do the
walking. I feel this is critical because they know the districts and they
can truly say they are the local fire fighters when talking to citizens. So,
I am asking that instead of walking you sign up to do a 3 hour stand by for our
Brothers to the south in Batt. 7, from 0800-1100.
You do the stand by, they do the walking. Saturday Sept. 25th is a
'B' shift day so if you are a 'A' or 'C' shifter please contact Bob Bodnar (28 'B', 925-487-3136
pbodnar@comcast.net) to sign up. Sunday Sept. 26th is a 'C'
shift day. If you are an 'A' shifter or a 'B' shifter coming off duty
please contact Bob to sign up for a stand by or to walk.
We
need you!!!! Only 1 person showed up for the Chasing Meg event in
Burlingame from our department. Many east bay departments were
represented. Let's step up. The time is now. Thanks in
advance. Lot's more to come.
Retiree's
welcome. Contact Bob for this particular walk. More
events coming soon.
JT...209-613-6403
(c)
9/18/2010 from Walt Bernardini:
Rich,
We're planning to put our house up for sale
within the next year. If anyone is interested in purchasing a home
out-of-county, and wants to view our property, please have them contact us. Our
home is a 2500 sq. foot, 3Bed/3Bath brick house on an acre of land.
It has been highly maintained and landscaped. Contact info is below; images are
enclosed at the top. Thank you for your cooperation.
Signed,
Walt and Cheryl Bernardini
13990 Day Road,
Grass Valley, CA
Phone: (530) 272-7616
Pat Corbiere Book-signing at Reed
Bookseller, 3630 Blackhawk Plaza, Danville 7:00
PM.
Dragon’s Breath.
October 14
ACFFA L-55 is supporting measure Z. Please come out
and stand behind your union and get involved. For more information
contact Ramsey Ismail (e-board). 1-925-209-9488.
15th Annual Charity Golf Tournament
ACFFA
When- Fri October 8th 2010
Where- Dublin Ranch Golf Course
Type- 4 man scramble
Fee- 140.00 per person
Includes: Green fees Gift Bag, Tee prizes, BBQ Lunch &
Dinner, Beer,
Wine and soda Fun!
10:00 entry/Registration/lunch
1:00
Start
Contact Eric Frago 925-899-2543 or
Ryan Davis 925-413-1985 with Questions
8/28/2010 from Mick Roark:
Hi Rich,
Can you put this flyer in the Bresnan?
thanks,
Mick
Click here for flyer
ACFD Retirement Oct 16
8/20/2010 from Mark Carter:
FYI,
If you want to get a look at our new Engines coming to St.# 13, 22, 23 look at the website below and then
double click on the picture to make it larger.
Mark S. Carter
8/16/2010 from Kay Dana:
$6 million fire station in works for Cherryland
http://www.insidebayarea.com/dailyreview/localnews/ci_15774120
8/14/2010 from Butch Wallenius:
Hi Rich:
Sorry for the slowness of me getting you my email address,
but you know how it goes. You can send me the Bresnan via email if you’d like,
but wanted to let you know that my address has changed to
Arlen “Butch” Wallenius
8/3/2010 from Cynthia Colagross:
Hi Rich,
Thanks again for putting all the news together.
I was really excited to read about Jason Castro. His Grandfather, Tom, and my husband, worked
together and our kids went to the same school.
I had to move again (2 times in 5 months, ugh. Mold in the first house). Anyway here is my new address…….
8/2/2010 from Randy Carter:
Hi Rich,
Thanks for keeping me in the loop with EBFFC. I took on the
position of Men’s Ministries Director at my church and that seems to fill most
of my time away from the fire house. Living 2 hours from Castro Valley
and serving at the church makes it difficult to attend. I love how you have
served your fellow firefighters with FFC and I plan to follow in your
footsteps.
One of the programs that I am serving in is Men’s
Fraternity. This is an excellent ministry that I encourage all men to look
into. Please encourage your friends to check it out at mensfraternity.com
.
Please don’t give up on my attendance. I will show up when I
can.
Thank you for serving Christ through serving firefighters.
Blessing,
Randy
7/30/2010 from Pat Corbiere:
Hey Rich,
Well I finally finished the book thanks to Luster. If you
have his parents address, I want to send them a copy. I have a special thanks
to Luster in it. I also have some of Frank Gattoni
quotes who I've told already will benefit if this thing takes off. A
portion of proceeds will also be sent to the Alisa Ann Ruch
Burn Foundation champ camp in our department's name. The book's title
is Dragon's Breath: A Firestorm. It's about
firefighters, relationships, love, and faith revolving around a refinery fire
that actually killed 8 firefighters and injured another 19 trying to save their
brothers. I hope I've given honor to them and our own. I've tried to
give readers not just a picture of firefighters they know kicking butt on fires
but the guys I've seen during my career-those guys who had constantly showed
small acts of kindness to others- friends and families of our patients and
victims. Their example should be a shining light to others. I think
the guys will enjoy this book especially seeing the bits and pieces
of those we've worked with in my characters. They can get the book by
ordering it at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other book suppliers. It
won't be on the shelves yet, until the numbers are up. I'm an unknown. I
will be down in September if anybody wants me to sign a copy.
Argh! Take care guys.
ps. I was sad to hear about
Wade. He was a good man. My prayers are for Lorelei.
Pat
7/26/2010 from Gary Henthorn:
Hi Rich,
Hope all is going well for you. I'm fantastic, enjoying
every day.
Where can I find the news letters of past? Are they on-line?
I somehow missed the one about Danny Freitas.
I'd like to print it out and keep with my box of memories. He was one of the
guy's the helped me get to know my way around, when I came on the department.
My son Kyle has two little boys now, Emilio 2 & Carson 6
mo.
Sheri's getting married in Sept. on the
Beach in Tahoe. So lots of things going on around
here.
I'm still riding Dirt Bikes and Bicycles and going Camping every chance I get.
I stopped being a guide on the Doner
Party Hikes for a while but may start doing it again.
Best wishes,
Gary
Alameda County Firefighters
BLOOD DRIVE
Look for the American Red Cross Bus!
20336 San Miguel Ave – Station 25, Castro Valley
Monday, August 9, 2010
and
Friday, August 13, 2010
6:30AM – 12:30PM
To schedule your appointment, please log on to
redcrossblood.org,
enter the Sponsor Code: ACF or call
Ninh Duong at 510-670-5886
or email him at
ninh.duong@acgov.org
Donors with type O blood are especially needed. Please give.
Have you met Alyx?
Enter a drawing for a chance to win a $100 Best Buy gift
card!*
If you have questions regarding your eligibility to donate
blood, please call 1-866-236-3276.
Night of Honor @ Redwood Chapel:
The Redwood Chapel community has the privilege of annually honoring First
Responders and their family members representing local Law Enforcement, Fire,
BART, Sheriff, CHP, and Emergency Response personnel.
Our goal is to show appreciation and to honor public servants for their
dedicated work and tireless service to this community. All First Responders and
their family members are invited to attend as our guests.
The 11th Annual Night of Honor is Monday, August 9 @ 6:30pm.
Email:
ddockter@redwoodchapel.org
Website:
http://www.redwoodchapel.org
Office:
Redwood Chapel Community Church
Location:
19300 Redwood Road
Castro Valley, CA, 94546
7/8/2010 from Lennie
Orr:
Local 55 will be sponsoring the annual Safe and Sane Ride
Aug. 29 & 30, 2010. It is a fund raiser for the Alisha Ann Rush burn
foundation. The ride starts out Sunday Aug. 29 at Isleton. They
take back roads to South Lake Tahoe with a stop or two for
refreshments. We stay at the Super 8 in South Lake with a
dinner, and open bar. After dinner and drinks many then venture to the
Casinos for more fun. The cost is $125 dollars. This includes room
(double occupancy), T shirt, dinner, and open bar. I have done it for the
last couple of years in the Cobra and it is a lot of fun. Click here for the flyer and Reg. form.
You can also go to safeandsane.org for more information. Most of the
participants ride motorcycles but cars are welcome. This is an event many
in the car club may enjoy. Some brings wives, it is up to you. You
may want to get a roommate in advance. If not one will
be provided for you. You may also contact via the webpage if you
require single occupancy.
Lennie Orr
6/2/2010 from Rosa Doll:
This information is being posted with the approval Dennis
and Lorelei Wade.
The tumor near Dennis’ esophagus has made it necessary for
him to now eat through a feeding tube; a process that leaves him feeling
extremely exhausted. He will begin his first chemo treatment on June 3rd.
Though they sincerely appreciate everyone’s concern, Dennis
and Lorelei are not accepting phone calls or visitors at this time. With
their approval, I will provide updates when given.
If you would like to send a card or something, send it to my
attention in the EMS/Training office; I will be sure to get it to them.
Please keep Dennis and Lorelei in your prayers.
Rosa
“Believe in the power of prayer”
6/1/2010 from Jeremy Roderick:
PLEASE COME TO HELP SEND B/C RICH MILAN OFF TO A LONG AND FRUITFUL RETIREMENT
After 30 years of service
Let’s send him off right with Friends, Food and many
stories.
Please come to Fire Station 12 – 143 Ave. in San Leandro.
from 1300 to 1600 hrs for
Munchies and cake
On June 11, 2010
Hope to see everyone there to give him a proper send off
5/12/2010 from Brian Centoni:
July 11th
Shadow Cliffs Picnic Area
12-6pm
Pleasanton Ca
Come see the new ACFFA Local 55 BBQ being built by Brent
Whalley
Retirees are all welcome
More info to come
Thanks
Brian Centoni
510 2193091
5/10/2010 from Ramsey Ismail:
Hello All,
Norm Moul, a retired ACFD Engineer
passed away on 2-22-2010 while visiting in Arizona. His family will be having a
formal celebration of his life on Friday, May 14th 2010 from 5-8 PM
at the San Lorenzo Homeowners Assoc Hall next to
station #1.
His family would be honored by the attendance of any and all
ACFD fire family members (current or retired) for this service. Class B
optional, Norm’s wife Kathie would really just like to see his fire family
there regardless of attire.
Norm was a resident of San Lorenzo, and began his fire
service career there after returning home from serving his active military duty
in 1965. He began as a volunteer with the San Lorenzo fire department in 1966,
became a paid member in 1971, saw the Eden consolidation in 1976 and the
Alameda County consolidation in 1993. He formally retired in 1997, and spent
the remainder of his time relaxing through golf, taking in ball games and
traveling in his motor home. He was a good man and will be missed.
If anyone has contact with retirees and can pass on this
information, please do so. The family would appreciate it greatly.
Respectfully,
Ramsey Ismail
5/9/2010 from Lennie
Orr:
Rich Ferguson has it out the people on the Bresnan list so
most should get the news. It is sad news and I know he has been through
hell with the disease he contracted. I will not be able to make the
remembrance as I will be out of town. Give my regrets.
5/6/2010 from Steve Gross:
Sorry
to hear about Ed. I remember working with him and Joe Lynch when I was a rookie
at Station 5. He always took great pride in cooking us a dinner for 75
cents or less, and would not let anyone else cook for fear of it costing more
than a dollar. We spent a lot of time together at the Station because Capt.
Lynch went home every night, and if we had a call we would pick him up on the
way. We weren't the best of friends but he was a good guy and I'm glad to have
known him.
Steve
4/28/2010 from Kay Dana:
Alameda County moves forward on new ambulance service
http://www.insidebayarea.com/oaklandtribune/localnews/ci_14970016
4/26/2010 from Jeremy Roderick:
Brother's & Sister's, We need
golfers! We are about a month away from the 3rd Annual Fremont Firefighters
sponsored National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Golf tournament (May 24th),
so if you are planning on attending please make sure to visit the website and
reserve your golf spot! If you've never been before, this is a fun event which
supports a great cause. Help us match last years' accomplishment as the highest
profiting tournament in the Country. Lunch is provided by the OUTBACK
Steakhouse, and we have a dinner following the golf round, with lots of raffle
prizes and great food! Here is the website for signing up and viewing
information on the event. http://golf.firehero.org/ca/fremont/ A registration form is also attached. Please feel free to
contact me if you have any questions regarding this tournament, and we look
forward to seeing you at the event! Fraternally, Jim Martin President Fremont
Firefighters IAFF Local 1689
Alameda County Fire
Temporary
Training
Captain
Jeremy
Roderick
510-693-3423
Cell
510-618-3322
Tower
4/26/2010 from Mike Fitzgerald:
about Benotti
Rich,
Thanks again for passing on to us this sad
information. It must be getting quite sad...we've had far too much
news like this in the past year. My thanks to you for what you do...it
can't be easy!
Mike Fitzgerald
Dear ACFD Family,
Miguel Garcia asked me to pass along that his family was
blessed with a baby girl Yaretzi Garcia on
Mom and baby are now home and resting.
To my ACFFA Brothers and Sisters,
it is time to step up and show
support to Union City L-1946. Tuesday at 19:00 hrs at
City Hall (34009 Alvarado/Niles bl) in the Council
chambers Union City council members will be voting on a contract for service
with the ACFD or to stay as Union City Fire. I will not go into the LONG
version but just know we have been called out by staff members to be unable to
deliver what we say we can deliver. This has become a very contentious
process with the UC POA trying to undermine 18 months of our hard work.
I am asking our members to show up in ACFD t-shirts or L-55
attire and show
See you there.
JT...John Torres
President ACFFA L-55
209-613-6403
4/16/2010
from Tom Neuerburg
Subject: for the Bresnan
Norm Moul, a retired ACFD Engineer
passed away on 2-22-2010 while visiting in Arizona. His family will be having a
formal celebration of his life on Friday, May 14th 2010 from 5-8 PM at the San
Lorenzo Homeowners Assoc Hall next to station #1.
His family would be honored by the attendance of any and all ACFD fire family
members (current or retired) for this service. Class B optional, Norm’s wife
Kathie would really just like to see his fire family there regardless of
attire.
Norm was a resident of San Lorenzo, and began his fire service career there
after returning home from serving his active military duty in 1965. He began as
a volunteer with the San Lorenzo fire department in 1966, became a paid member
in 1971, saw the Eden consolidation in 1976 and the Alameda County
consolidation in 1993. He formally retired in 1997, and spent the remainder of
his time relaxing through golf, taking in ball games and traveling in his motor
home. He was a good man and will be missed……
If anyone has contact with retirees and can pass on this information, please do
so. The family would appreciate it greatly
4/9/2010
from Francis Chew:
Hi Rich,
The Castro Valley Community Band will perform their Spring
Concert on Wednesday, April 14, at 7:30 p.m. at the Castro Valley Center for
the Arts, 19501 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley.
Everyone is invited. I am a member of the band, and we do have a lot of
fun performing. It should be fun for the audience as well. The
music includes Latin tunes, selections from Rodgers and Hammerstein, music from
the Beatles, and other pops, light classical, traditional, and
contemporary selections. The best part is the concert is free(!) with refreshments afterwards.
I've attached concert flyer if you'd like to put it on the
Bresnan. Hope to see you there.
Francis Chew
4/6/2010
from Dave Huang:
Hi Rich,
This is Dave Huang from Alameda Co. Fire Dept. I currently
planning on putting together an ACFD motorcycle riding club.
Please pass this on to other retirees:
I’m planning on putting together an ACFD Riding Club (name
yet to be determined). It sounds like there are plenty of people
interested in starting one, so I’m getting the ball rolling. Details are
still being worked out, but it sounds like we may be a subdivision of the First
In Car Club.
Please send me an email or call me if you’re interested in
joining. All are welcomed to join: sport bikes, cruisers, choppers,
touring, dual sport, trikes, American or Metric.
Even if you don’t own a motorcycle and you want to borrow or rent one.
Please note this is a Riding Club, not a Motorcycle
Club. We’re not going to stand around in a parking lot admiring
everyone’s bikes; we’re gonna RIDE! (no offense Car Club)
Dave Huang
415.994.3387
david.huang@acgov.org
4/1/2010
from Frank Giuntoli:
Hi Rich,
Thanks for the newsletter.
Steve Nofsinger introduced me to you. You do a good job on the newsletter and I’m
glad I’m on your list.
Sincerely,
Frank Giuntoli
3/31/2010
from Ben Kellogg:
Evening Rich,
If any of the retirees or even the non retires get nostalgic on their off day, I have a
portion of my business website put aside for the scanner enthusiast. I have
live fire scanner audio from all across the state including Alco. I also have
links to other fire related websites along the left hand side of the website.
Take a look at your leisure and let me know whatcha
think. Lots of good stuff on it.
Thanks,
Ben Kellogg
(offspring of retiree Capt. Kyle
Kellogg)
Dan
Freitas passes
Dan Freitas passed
away the morning of February 12th at the age of 83. He was hired
in 1955 and retired as a career hose man in 1981 from the old Castro Valley
Fire Department because of a disability. Danny was the most
cantankerous person you would ever want to meet. But, he was also a nice
man and with handling emergencies there was none better. He was always
there to provide a shoulder to lean on or a helping hand with any project
at work or at home. Danny was a Navy veteran of World War 2.
Norm
Moul passes:
Alameda County Fire Fighters Association sad news to
report... Norm Moul passed away ... he was in Arizona
(most likely on his annual spring training trip) and suffered a fatal heart
attack... RIP Norm
from Joe Banchero:
Pat and I want to thank our Fire Dept. family for all they
have done to help us through the untimely death on our son Tony. The help
with food, tables, chairs for the service was
very much appreciated. The e mails and phone calls have helped try and
make some sense of it all. I'm sorry I didn't get to speak to some of
you to personally thank you for coming to Tony's service.
The checks to the LILY & Ty fund from my second family
keep arriving for Lily and Ty. One of you gave $1000 and the generous donations
from the crews at 4A, 4B, and 4C will help in many ways, THANK YOU SO MUCH.
We have received notice from the California Donor Network
that a 54 and 47 year old got off Dialysis after receiving Tony's
kidneys. A 66 year old man got Tony's liver. We are very happy for them
and their families.
During my 30 year career we helped many different people in
many different ways. I never gave it much thought about being on the other
side. Now that I'm here seeing first hand how
you were there for me in my time of need I'm prouder than ever to have been
part of the Fire Dept. Family. More than one person told me how amazing it
was to see all fire and police apparatus in front of
I would especially like to thank Brian Dillingham, Jeff Kramm, Gary & Debbie Centoni,
Leslie & Steve Young, Rich & Elena Milan, Sandy & Lary Lyall, Steve Brown , Mark Carter & Rich Ferguson.
All the crews who came up to
Joe & Pat Banchero
Tony
Banchero passes:
It’s with a heavy
heart that I inform you that retiree, Engineer Joe Banchero’s
son, Tony, passed away Monday, March 15 with his family at his side. Tony
remained on a ventilator for two days prior to allow for his organs to be
donated.
Here
is something I forgot to put in the newsletter:
Jess Anderson, and Mark Bennett are trying to memorialize
all ACFD Badges that were ever issued.
There are several gaps in their numbers.
Badge 1 and 2 were accounted for, then 8. Then a gap when SL came in.
They can not find any supporting
documents that had the original Badges.
We are hoping some one might have an old
roster from the original consolidation.
Duke is there anything in your scrapbook???? If you could help, or know of someone we
should call, please send me, Jess, or Mark an email. Thanks JRO.
Alameda County Fire Temporary Training Captain Jeremy
Roderick
510-693-3423 Cell
510-618-3322 Tower
3/13/2010 from Kay Dana:
Here is an interesting link sent in by Kay:
San Carlos releases more details about outsourcing fire service
http://www.mercurynews.com/breaking-news/ci_14668938?nclick_check=1
From:
Neuerburg, Thomas, ACFD
Sent: Tue 3/2/2010
Subject: Bill Woolery OFD
Not sure how many folks are left from the Firefighter
bowling league, but I was informed today that Bill Woolery
had passed away . Bill was retired OFD, ran the
bowling league (I believe since its inception). I ran into him at SL Costco a
few months ago and he looked good, apparently he was recently diagnosed with an
aggressive ABD cancer and passed away a few days ago.
TN10A
2/21/2010
from Bill Robertson:
Hi Rich
Well it took some time and I'm having
to learn with this computer all over again, but I'm willing to give it a try
again. My kids gave me this laptop and I've finally got connected again
and --here we go again, just bear with me. It's like going back to school
again and at 84 yrs -- it ain't
easy.
My wife is still kicking and just had her 80th birthday and
we just celebrated our 60th Anniversary. Her Alzheimer's is still
controlling her and she has been in the same place, The Adobe House, Petaluma,
for 3 years now. I see her 4 to 5 times a week and even though there is
no recognition as to who I am, but , I can still get a
smile out of her and we do hold hands and walk.
I've been at my location for a year and a half now, a
retirement community here in Petaluma called Valley Orchards, and only 5 minutes drive from her place, which makes it
convenient. Still have my property in Lake County and will probably
be disposing of it in the near future. My two daughters still reside in
your area, one in Castro Valley and the other in Hayward and my son lives here
in Petaluma, about 5 minutes from my place here.
Just thought I'd give you an update since my last
communication via computer is way over a year ago.
It is hard to imagine that I've been retired for over 32
years now. In my next communication with you I'll tell you a little known
story of Emil McDonald and how he and I were connected with San Leandro Fire. Was sorry to hear of his passing away. Well enough gabbing
for this time. I will be back in the future though.
Bill Robertson
Here is a notice from Frank Wynn:
FERG <><
Hello to all,
"C" Shift, Station 17 will be hosting a
retirement party for Francis "Rusty Trombone" Chew this
This will be a lunch time affair which will continue
through the afternoon. Food, drinks and cake will be
plentiful.
Please drop by anytime from 11:00 or so and join in
the fun and wish Francis well.
Please RSVP if you can, either by Dept. e-mail,
Facebook or my cell phone......925-699-0629.
Thanks
Hope to see you there.
2/8/2010
from Jeremy Roderick:
Hello,
You probably remember Stephanie as her maiden name was Hinderer. She is
married to a SL Police Officer, and they just had their first child. Way
to go Steph and family…
From: Hoskins, Jim, ACFD
Sent: Saturday, February 06, 2010 9:49 PM
Subject: Baby Corti has arrived!
On
February 4, 2010, at 1229 hours, there was a new addition to the Corti family. Nick and
Stephanie are proud to announce the birth of their first child,
Nicholas Oreste Corti, weighing in at 8 lbs 9 oz, and standing 19 ¾ inches tall. Nick Jr. and
Mom are doing well, Daddy still doesn’t know what he
is in for.
Please
join us in congratulating the Corti’s on their
growing family.
2/8/2010
from Vince Davis:
Rich,
Very sad news. I remember Greg as a kid coming by the
firehouse. Every day is truly a gift. I hope this letter finds you well.
Vince
2/6/2010
from Steve Mikinka:
Rich,
So sorry to hear about Ron's son. I
met him while he was a small boy, seemed to take after his dad.
Thank you for the notification.
Steve
2/6/2010
from Ron Johnson:
Ron
Johnson - 18 years in retirement -
more than 1/2 a career in retirement.
On
a more serious note - Our son Greg was diagnosed on May 12, 2009 with a brain
tumor. It was a gioblastoma stage
4. Brain surgeon Dr. Randle (son of the San Leandro City Manager
during much of my career) resected all of the tumor he
could. Greg was given 1 year or so. He
endured radiation/oral chemo therapy combo and
numerous additional oral chemo treatments. He displayed
great courage - willingly did all the Doctors asked -
endured all of the indignities without complaint. Greg lost his
battle 8 1/2 mounths later on January 30,
2010.
We
miss you son - I pray that I will display such
courage.
Dad
<><
1/29/2010
from Bill Caplinger:
Rich!!
Received your Bresnan. Sorry to hear about MacDonald. It’s hard to believe that I’ve been out 26
years, and some of the guys I worked with that just came into the department
more or less, have now also retired.
Thanks for keeping all of us informed.
THANKS "CAPY"
1/6/2010
More Dave Cameron news from Denny Hopken & Ralph
Johnson:
From: Hopken, Denny, ACFD
Sent: Tuesday, January 05, 2010 11:57 AM
Subject: UPDATE ON DAVE CAMERON
I
WENT TO Cameron’s house and took him the cards signed by you. Dave told
me that they had changed his medications and of
This
morning his blood pressure had dropped to 117/68. He is in good spirits
and wanted to me to pass on a thank you to everyone.
Denny
– I know, I know, the world’s oldest engineer.
***********************************
News about
Dave Cameron from Darryl Karg.
Dave is at
home, there appears to be no physical or mental disabilities. He will be on
R&R and working to get his blood pressure lower!!!
Ralph Johnson
From:
O'Hara, Daniel, ACFD
Sent: Saturday, December 26, 2009 9:58 PM
Subject: Dave Cameron Update
Denny Hopken called with an update
on Dave. He’s at Kaiser Hayward, he is still restrained because of being
combative and they believe he possible had a stroke. The family is
requesting no phone calls or visits at this time. If anyone wants to get
a message to Dave, you can call his daughter Kelly and she’ll make sure it gets
to him.
Daniel T. O'Hara
Battalion Chief
Station 4/A
Phone (510) 670-5878
Cell (510) 693-3415
Greetings,
Per Denny Hopken, The family of
Dave Cameron asks that you not try to contact him directly at this time.
If you wish to get an update on his condition, contact his daughter Kelly at
310-980-3136. Thanks, Eric
Eric Holmgren
Captain, Station 17B
From:
Frago, Roger, ACFD
Sent: Tuesday, December 22, 2009 10:34 PM
Subject: Last Night
Well
the last night in the firehouse has come for me and I wanted to say before I
went to bed that it’s been an honor and a privilege to drive you all whether
it’s been to a fire, an EMS call, to a drill or just to the store to
shop. I was allowed to drive Fire Engines and Trucks for 25 of my 30 years and
I wouldn’t change a single day. Enjoy it now…it goes by fast. Take care and be
safe.
Eng.
Roger Frago ( 179 retired )
12/17/2009
from Ralph Johnson:
Julie and I had some guests for Thanksgiving, one of them
turned out to be John Underwood's grandson. I showed him some pictures of John
from our ( I think one and only yearbook,
SLFD Circa 1987)
John is recovering from his 2nd stroke in Georgia. I will
pass any news I receive along FYI!!!
Ralph
From:
Davison, Kenneth, ACFD
Sent: Monday, December 14, 2009 10:37 PM
To: Roderick, Jeremy, ACFD
Subject: Ken Davison Retirement
Jeremy could you please
forward this out to the ACFD.
To the ACFD,
It is with a
heavy heart I say goodbye to the fire department after 32 years, 4 months
and almost 11,000 runs. I feel strongly I could keep going but like
everything there comes a time for the end. I want to thank all the well wishers that came to the sendoff at Station 10 the
other day to wish Bill Chase, Tom Castro, Mark Collyer
and myself goodbye. At first I did not want to do it but I was convinced
by many that I will take part and I am glad I did. I am not a big party
guy. It made feel proud yet again to be part of this great family and all
the friendships and work relationships I have built throughout the years.
As many have said in all of the farewell emails that you need to carry
on the strong traditions that were carried on through our past fire
departments which now make this one. ACFD will continue to be strong and
please never let apathy set in. John Torres and your union leaders are
working hard and we need to maintain our position within our communities during
these times. The ones who saw my scrap books saw several cases over the
last many years so it is a continual fight.
I also want
to give thanks to the crews I worked with on OT as I always felt wanted when I
showed up for the shift. Thank you to Pete and his crew at Station 3 for their
hard work as they are the backbone to keep us running with great
equipment. All Admin and secretaries for their support
to make us a great department. To training for their
dedication to make us one of the best. I have worked with so many
great crews since 1977 and I feel blessed to never have been on a bad
one. My last 14 years at Station 9 seems like yesterday. I was able to
see many firefighters and engineers continue up the ladder to new positions and
watch them prosper. I could go on forever but I will end with a special
thanks to my last crew of Bill Chase, Jeremy Roderick James Cobb, Daniel
Montes, Jason Matthews and Lary Lyall.
These guys are the reason I stayed on for two extra years.
Thank you and
Be Safe,
Ken Davison
Station 9-C
12/16/2009
from FERG:
I am sorry to inform you that I just heard that our Emil MacDonald
passed away October 31, 2009. I hope to
have more info for you in the next newsletter.
From:
Chase, William, ACFD
Sent: Sunday, December 13, 2009 7:21 PM
Subject: Contact info
For
anyone interested:
New
address,
762 W 1545 N Cir.
Phone
to stay the same
209-612-1323
Anyone
finding themselves on a road trip to southern Utah feel
free to drop in. One request - stop in Mesquite and
drop in at Lee’s Tavern and stock up on my favorite full bodied adult beverage.
(Sam Adams)
It’s
been an Honor and a privilege.
Bill
Chase, Capt.
ACFD
Station 9
12/10/2009
from Paul Smith:
Rich,
Here is my check for the Bresnan Expenses. Also am sending a copy of the announcement of
fireman exam. Thought the younger guys
might like to see what we made. Thanks for
all you work with the Bresnan Regards,
Paul Smith
City of
THE CITY OF SAN LEANDRO ANNOUNCES
THE FOLLOWING
CIVIL SERVICE EXAMINATION AND
INVITES THE FILING OF APPLICATIONS
FIREMAN $360 - $426
DESIRABLE
QUALIFICATIONS:
Applicants must be at least 21 but
not more than 35 Years
of age as
of Saturday, October 1, 1955: be in excellent physical condition.
and capable
of passing a rigid physical performance test; able to learn a
variety of
specialized duties within a reasonable training period: be cap-
able of
reacting quickly and effectively under emergency conditions; be
able to
understand and follow oral and written instructions., and; be able
to deal
courteously and effectively with the general public. Special
medical
standards must be met in this classification.
From:
Cobb, James, ACFD
Sent: Wednesday, December 02, 2009 6:05 AM
Subject: Holiday Toy Drive Information
Greetings Holiday Toy Program Enthusiasts,
To
prepare for this year’s Holiday Toy Drive, toy bins will be distributed to
local businesses and amongst all of our fire houses throughout this week. Also,
as in past years, the good ole’ turkey bucket will start making its way from
station to station. Let’s continue the tradition of donating $20 each to
provide turkeys and chickens for all of the families that will be receiving
assistance at the Davis Street Family Resource Center this holiday season.
Our
Holiday Toy Drive not only supports the efforts of the Davis Street Family
Resource Center, which serves the unincorporated areas of the County and San
Leandro, but programs such as Tri-Valley Haven and Shepherds’ Gate in
Livermore, Girls Inc. of Alameda County, Building Futures with Women and
Children, Hope for the Heart in Cherryland, etc.
Here
are some key things to keep in mind this holiday season:
Please
instruct people with check donations to make them payable to Alameda County
Fire Fighters Random Acts. After which, contact me at station
9C or via email and I will arrange a pick
up.
Forward
any requests for toy bins or toy pick-ups, other special holiday requests to
myself and copy Aisha Knowles on the message.
Coordinating
the Dublin Toy Program will be led by myself and Aisha, therefore please direct all Dublin Holiday
Toy Program related questions/requests via email to both of us.
I would strongly like to encourage new firefighters to participate
in our Holiday Toy Drive events. We are currently experiencing many retirements
and promotions, and there is a strong need for our newer generation to assist
in making the Holiday Toy Program a continued success.
If
you’re interested in volunteering at an event this holiday season, please mark your
calendars with the following dates:
Davis
Street Family Resource Center Work Days & Distribution (3081 Teagarden
Street, San Leandro)
Work Days: Saturday, December 5th, 12th and 19th
we will be bagging toys and food from 0830 – 1200 hours.
Distribution dates: Tuesday, December 22 from 0900 – 1700
hours and Wednesday, December 23rd from 0900 – 1700 hours
Santa
at the Fire House Events
(Assistance
is needed baking cookies, playing Santa, reading “A Firefighter’s Night Before Christmas,” meeting & greeting community members,
set-up and clean-up)
Saturday, December 12th from 1130 to 1530 hours at
Station 4
Sunday, December 13th from 1130 to 1530 hours at Station
18
Saturday, December 19th from 1130 to 1530 hours at
Station 9
Miscellaneous
Help
If
you’re not able to attend any of these events and would still like to help, we
have plenty of tasks to go around…from picking up bins/toys, helping distribute
flyers about Santa at the Fire House, etc. Let us know what you have time
to do and we’ll find something for you to help out with.
Please
email Aisha with the dates that you are interested in helping out so that we
have an idea of how many people we will have at each event.
Stay
tuned for additional updates on our holiday giving efforts. Don’t hesitate to
let us know if you have any questions or need additional information.
Thank you for this opportunity and I look forward to the wonderful
things we can do for our communities this holiday season.
Thank
you,
James
Cobb
Holiday
Toy Drive Coordinator
12/4/2009
from Bill Caplinger:
Rich,
Just a note to say doing a good job on
Bresnan. Thanks. All is well with my family. Donna finally got her new knee put in, and is
doing great. I’m still playing a lot of
golf and coaching boy’s golf at Castro Valley H.S. 15 years now.
Just had my 80th last September.
Say “Hello” to the guys for me, and
thank you again.
Capy
12/2/2009
from James Cobb:
Greetings Holiday Toy Program Enthusiasts,
To prepare for this year’s Holiday Toy Drive, toy bins will
be distributed to local businesses and amongst all of our fire houses
throughout this week. Also, as in past years, the good ole’ turkey bucket will
start making its way from station to station.
Let’s continue the tradition of donating $20 each to provide turkeys and
chickens for all of the families that will be receiving assistance at the Davis
Street Family Resource Center this holiday season.
Our Holiday Toy Drive not only supports the efforts of the
Davis Street Family Resource Center, which serves the unincorporated areas of
the County and San Leandro, but programs such as Tri-Valley Haven and
Shepherds’ Gate in Livermore, Girls Inc. of Alameda County, Building Futures
with Women and Children, Hope for the Heart in Cherryland,
etc.
Here are some key things to keep in mind this holiday
season:
· Please
instruct people with check donations to make them payable to Alameda County
Fire Fighters Random Acts. After which, contact me at station
9C or via email and I will arrange a pick up.
· Forward any
requests for toy bins or toy pick-ups, other special holiday requests to myself
and copy Aisha Knowles on the message.
· Coordinating
the Dublin Toy Program will be led by myself and
Aisha, therefore please direct all Dublin Holiday Toy Program related
questions/requests via email to both of us.
I would strongly like to encourage new firefighters to
participate in our Holiday Toy Drive events.
We are currently experiencing many retirements and promotions, and there
is a strong need for our newer generation to assist in making the Holiday Toy
Program a continued success.
If you’re interested in volunteering at an event this
holiday season, please mark your calendars with the following dates:
Davis Street Family Resource Center Work Days &
Distribution (3081 Teagarden Street, San Leandro)
· Work Days:
Saturday, December 5th, 12th and 19th we will be bagging toys and food from
0830 – 1200 hours.
· Distribution
dates: Tuesday, December 22 from 0900 –
1700 hours and Wednesday, December 23rd from 0900 – 1700 hours
Santa at the Fire House Events
(Assistance is needed baking cookies, playing Santa, reading
“A Firefighter’s Night Before Christmas,” meeting
& greeting community members, set-up and clean-up)
· Saturday,
December 12th from 1130 to 1530 hours at Station 4
· Sunday,
December 13th from 1130 to 1530 hours at Station 18
· Saturday,
December 19th from 1130 to 1530 hours at Station 9
Miscellaneous Help
· If you’re not
able to attend any of these events and would still like to help, we have plenty
of tasks to go around…from picking up bins/toys, helping distribute flyers
about Santa at the Fire House, etc. Let
us know what you have time to do and we’ll find something for you to help out
with.
· Please email Aisha
with the dates that you are interested in helping out so that we have an idea
of how many people we will have at each event.
Stay tuned for additional updates on our holiday giving
efforts. Don’t hesitate to let us know if you have any questions or need
additional information.
Thank you for this opportunity and I look forward to the
wonderful things we can do for our communities this holiday season.
Thank you,
James Cobb Holiday
Toy Drive Coordinator
ACFD Kids Christmas Party, Dublin Civic Center December 12th
from 10am-noon.
Bob Perez
First in Classic and Street Rod Club
is holding the 1st Annual Toy Drive
in memory of Luster Knight
Saturday November 28th
and
Saturday December 5th
Hacienda Crossings @ Babies 'R' Us
6850 Amador Valley Plaza,
Please bring un-wrapped new gifts only
Gifts go to families of Dublin and surrounding area
11/10/2009
from Steve Young:
Car Club shirt designs:
Adult Christmas Party ACFD, Save the Date!!! Check our calendar.
Time: 6:00pm to 12:00am
Location: The Shannon Center in Dublin at 11600 Shannon Ave.
Dublin 94568.
Cocktail hour from 6 to 7. Dinner from 7 to 8:30 Dancing to Midnight.
Cost of tickets are 40 dollars per
person and 30 dollars per person for retirees. Please make your checks payable
to ACFFA. You can send your checks to station 9 located at 450 Estudillo Ave. San Leandro 94577 attention to Jason
Matthews. Fellas it would be nice to see
you in a shirt and tie and Ladies dress to impress. See you all there.
Jason Matthews
10/12/2009
from Ralph Johnson:
Ralph & Julie Johnson had surprise visitors, Jerry &
Linda Skaggs, Ken & Karen Davision and Bob Spurr. They stopped by on their way home from the Safe and
Sane yearly trip to Tahoe.
They came through the Feather River Canyon from Quincy, Jerry said it was one of the most beautiful rides
they had been on!!!
We had a great visit, Bob did the
honors at the BBQ. After leaving they stopped by to say hello to Evan " Siggy" and his wife
Jenny on the way out of town.
Everyone looked great, good to see we are all doing pretty good in our Retirement years!!!
The message is ready to be sent with the following file or
link attachments:
Shortcut to: C:\Documents and Settings\Ralph Johnson\My Documents\My
Pictures\2009-08-31,
9/24/2009
from Rod Mendez:
Hi Richard
Thanks for doing such a great job with the Bresnan and
keeping folks in the loop. i wanted to drop a line and
say how sad it is to see folks pass on, and what a great feeling it is to see
those that are still alive and taking care of their families. I have lots
of pictures and memories working in S.L. Even though I left in 1995, I
still have an emotional tie to a lot of folks i spent 20 yrs
of my career and life with. I am doing good, retired from the Forest
Service as a Division Chief in 2007, and I am currently the Chief of OES
for the Hoopa folks. I am easy to contact, just call the Hoopa Fire Dept.
in Hoopa Ca. I am always happy to hear from folks and do a little
walk down memory lane and catch up. February will start my 40th year in fire
and emergency services. I'm still kickin and believe
it or not I just had my 7th and last kid. She's a pretty little
girl. Yes, I'm still crazy as a hoot owl. All is well with my
family. Take care and god bless all of you. Stay safe and remember;
"fire gives the test just ahead of the lesson". be careful.
Family First
Rod Mendes, Director
Hoopa Office of Emergency Services
Hoopa Valley Tribe
Hoopa CA 95546
530-784-7870
8/2009
from Jim Dorpinghaus:
Ferg,
We received the latest issue of the Bresnan and, sadly, read
about the passing of Frank Boscow. He was, without a doubt
one of the great guys that I had the pleasure of working with. He selected me
to be one of the Engineers on his crew when Captains, for the first time in the
history of the fire department, chose whom they wanted. We worked together at
old Station One, behind City Hall, before moving to the new headquarters
station on
Working for and with Frank was great He had a quiet demeanor
in his leadership and his crew responded to what he wanted done. If something
came up he'd ask, but I don't ever recall him giving a direct order to anyone
other than at the scene of an emergency.
I learned a great deal from him during the time I spent as a
member of his crew. As a newly appointed Engineer, he took the time to explain
the workings of the equipment and I worked with him on some of the repair
assignments. I'd venture to say he knew every nut and bolt on the rigs and his
expertise would get them back in service when there was a problem. He fulfilled
this role until the department decided to have all the
repair work done by the City Garage. Ironically, that decision was made about
the time Frank tested for, passed and was selected to be one of the first Batt. Chiefs in the history of the
department.
If Frank had a failing, it was that he didn't get along well
with the workings of a typewriter. He would never ask, but never turned down
anyone who volunteered to type one of his reports. He would hand that person
his notes with a big grin and bigger 'Thanks'. Using a typewriter was not one
of his better callings and we didn't mind doing this for him.
I worked with a lot of good men during my time on the Fire
Department, but Frank stands out as one of the very best. We all lost a good
person and friend with his passing and we wish his family well in their time of
loss.
Take care and God bless---!!! Dorp.
8/2009
from Kay Dana:
Internet furor squelched: Santa Cruz says it did not ticket
Alameda fire truck
By Genevieve Bookwalter@santacruzsentinel.com
Posted: 08/20/2009
Updated: 08/20/2009
A downtown Santa Cruz parking attendant inadvertently
sparked small-town Internet fury on Thursday after a Pacific Avenue worker
posted a photo to her Facebook account showing an out-of-town firetruck, apparently just off the Lockheed Fire, with a
pink parking citation envelope on its windshield.
"OMG!! You've GOT to be
kidding me??!!" ranted one commentator.
"I'm so glad I live in Scotts Valley. Santa Cruz just
don't get it and never will," said another.
But in fact, what appeared to be a parking ticket on the
windshield of an Alameda Fire Department truck was a note from a thankful Last
Chance Road resident whose house had been saved, but who had nothing else to
write on.
She "asked one of my enforcement officers for a piece
of paper and all he had was an envelope," said Marlin Granlund,
the city's parking programs manager. "This envelope, on the inside, said,
'Thank you firefighters for saving my house.'"
Both Grandlund and the Alameda
Fire Department said they had received multiple calls about the photo on
Thursday morning.
For those who might wonder if Granlund
is trying to talk himself out of a heated situation, he said, "In fact,
that's not how we put our citations on our windshields. Usually with a
citation, the envelope is folded."
8/12/2009
from Rod McGrew:
Dear Rich,
We enjoy getting your newsletter. Thank you for your dedication and time
putting this newsletter together.
Sincerely Rod McGrew
8/6/2009
from Ben Guild:
Hi Rich,
It’s that time of the year…. almost Golf tourney. The day is
Fri Oct 2nd at Dublin Ranch Golf Course. The cost is $140.00 a piece
includes BBQ lunch, Dinner, Beer, wine, soda, Tee prizes, gift bag, and one heck
of a time. Check in is 10:00am with a shotgun start @ 1:00. Any Questions
contact Eric Frago (925)899-2543 or Ryan Davis (925)
413-1985. Thanks for all you do Rich, looking forward to seeing the everyone there.
Respectfully,
Brother
firefighter Ben Guild 3B
OPFRA (Oakland Police & Fire Retirement Association) Golf
Tournament to Benefit Children's Hospital
WHEN: Wednesday, September 9th - Shotgun start at 11am
WHERE: Lake Chabot Golf Course in Oakland
COST: $100 includes green fees, cart and dinner. $30 for dinner only
For more information please contact Jim Powers at
925-846-7179
8/8/2009
from Tom Boggs:
Rich,
Thanks for keeping me in the loop. I am here in San
Diego till October. My daughter had a baby girl Tuesday 1AM. Delia Rose Mandere, 7#12oz, via 'c' section. All are doing great and
hope to have them home today (Fri.)
Keep us in prayer here, as I keep you in prayer also.
My best to everyone,
Tom
8/5/2009 from Terry Givens
Rich
Please accept this money for the Bresnan Distributor. Even tho7ugh I was only a volunteer, the
pictures and articles bring back a flood of memories.
Every time I see pictures of the retiree’s luncheon I make a
promise to myself to make time to attend the next one.
Thanks again!
Terry Givens
7/4/2009 from Bill Potts
ACFD Family,
Some of you know that Mark Blanchard is fighting lymphoma,
or you do now. I visited with Mark on Wednesday at his home and he is doing
VERY WELL. Mark went for a CT scan on Tuesday 6/30 and found out that the
cancer has not spread from the tumor in his chest, he
is undergoing radiation and chemotherapy and is having very positive results.
Mark’s doctor expects the tumor to be completely eliminated and a return to
100% health. Mark still exercises regularly and his doctor said this is
benefiting him hugely. He looks forward to playing golf and spending time with
his family. Mark told me to thank you for any prayers.
Sincerely,
Bill Potts