In a ceremony at the Capitol, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed an executive order establishing the independent Blue Ribbon Task Force to oversee implementation of recommendations developed in the wake of the 2003 Southern California firestorm. CPF President Lou Paulson was named to co-chair the 14-member panel, along with Sheldon Gilbert, president of the California Fire Chiefs Association.
Los Angeles County Firefighters, Local 1014 is deeply saddened to announce the unexpected loss of one its long time members. On July 1st, Phil Arreguin died of a sudden heart attack. Brother Arreguin was dedicated to his profession and his family. Arreguin began his career with the Los Angeles County Fire Department in 1989. He moved through the ranks quickly, holding such positions as Engineer, Fire Fighter, Fire Inspector and Fire Captian. Brother Arreguin is described by his coworkers as fiercely dedicated to his profession and extremely reliable. He is also remembered for his ear to ear grin.
In a move that further compromises an already desperately understaffed fire department, Vallejo is closing yet another fire station. The station closing -- Vallejo's third since it began its disastrous bankruptcy effort -- will nearly double response times for some residents, and could extend response time to up to 15 minutes in some areas.