Day 1 - Minneapolis to Des Moines

Saturday, March 8, 2003

Yes! I'm on the road again- this time for a shorter west coast trip (three weeks only). Karyle flies out to meet me in Los Angeles next weekend and then we head to Las Vegas for four days after three days in the LA area. When Karyle flies home the following weekend, I will continue on to Phoenix, El Paso, the Dallas-Fort Worth area and then stopping a night in Kansas City on the way home.

I was originally intending on leaving the Twin Cities early on Sunday morning, as I wanted to see the Championship Game of the Minnesota State High School Hockey Tournament (hoping that the Holy Angels Stars would be in the final). One of our golf course employees plays for the Stars and we were all hoping they'd win State again. I've been following the team closely, attending about 15 of their games this season. Friday night, they played poorly and lost to an outstanding Anoka squad.

After the loss, I changed my plans to leaving early Saturday morning. When I awoke this morning I was greeted by 4+ inches of snow and it was still coming down hard. I thought then that it would be best to postpone the trip until Sunday (it wasn't supposed to snow). Then, around noon, the snow cleared up and the sun came out and I decided to get as far as I could and shorten the long journey for tomorrow (Minneapolis to Oklahoma City- 700+ miles).

I didn't get out of the barn until around 2PM and I had to make a couple stops before I could head south on I-35. I left the cities around 3PM intending on getting to at least Des Moines, Iowa for the night. The roads had all been plowed and were in very good shape. Even though it was only around 10 degrees, the snow had pretty much been cleared from all the highways.

It was sunny, with clear sailing all the way to Des Moines. I arrived in De Moines around 6:45PM and checked into a motel. On the way down I tried using my truntracker scanner a couple times and was disappointed to see "All Channels Locked Out" displayed on the screen. I had programmed the frequencies on the computer utilizing a couple different programs using the 10-banks of the trunktracker for the cities I would visit.

I had programmed a10-channel bank that covers the Twin Cities, Kansas City (trunked), Wichita (trunked), Oklahoma City, Albuquerque (trunked), El Paso (trunked), Phoenix, Los Angeles, San Diego (trunked), and Clark County-Las Vegas (trunked). I had downloaded this program into the trunktracker from the computer before I left. What I neglected to do was click the "Scan" after the program name in each bank. When you don't click the "scan", it "skips" the program bank. So I had 10 blank banks of channels!

When I got to Des Moines, I revised the program (clicking on the "scan") and re-downloaded the program into the scanner- now everything works great. It only takes about ten minutes (or less) to download all the banks (500 channels available).

I have a second program that I will download when I leave Phoenix that includes Tucson, El Paso (trunked), Fort Worth area (trunked), Dallas, Arlington (trunked), Grand Prairie (trunked), Plano (trunked), Garland (trunked), Richardson (trunked), and Irving (trunked). The only problem is that you can only monitor two trunked systems at a time on the this model of trunktracker (Pro-92). I'll just have to choose the two closest areas that I'm near to and Dallas (not trunked).

Then when I leave the Dallas-Fort Worth area, I'll download the first program back into the trunktracker for the trip home. It actually works pretty slick. I should never have to program the old fashioned way again- hopefully, anyway.

I am picking up the De Moines fire department and the eternal beeping that they use when dispatching. The dispatcher will come on the radio and announce whatever companies are going and then the beeps start sounding- apparently until someone at the station signifies that they are ready (or something like that). Then the dispatcher gives out the location and responding companies again. It's hard to miss an assignment- I will say that!

I plan to head out fairly early tomorrow morning and stop briefly in Kansas City on the way through and then drive around Wichita on the way to Oklahoma City. I plan to spend Sunday night in Oklahoma City, Monday night in Albuquerque and Tueday night in Lake Havasu (you heard me right) and then arrive in Los Angeles on Wednesday. I have always wondered what Lake Havasu looked like and this trip I will travel I-40 from Albuquerque to the Lake Havasu cutoff (normally I take I-25 south from Albuquerque, take the cut-off at Hatch, NM to I-10 and go through Tucson on the way to Phoenix.

I will visit Phoenix on the way back from Las Vegas this trip and will stop at Shawn and Jennfier Huston's new home (they just moved in a week ago) in Phoenix. I look forward to seeing both of them and their new home.

That's all for now. Gas prices are $1.65 here in Des Moines. I don't look forward to the California prices (already over $2.00 for 87-grade in the Los Angeles area). I heard from my brother that it's even more in the San Francisco area ($2.16 a gallon already). That is one reason why I shortened my west coast trip from five to three weeks.

Take care.

Your traveling reporter

No photos today.

Day 2 - Des Moinse to Kansas City

Sunday, March 9, 2003

It was very cold in Des Moines last night. The few times I left my room I about froze my face off. The wind was blowing and the wind chill had to be in the minus teens. I only heard one full response of the Des Moines FD last night and that turned out to be nothing. By the way- the Des Moines FD is still using 460.575, 460.625 and 460.600 Mhz (same as St. Paul). I didn't hear much overnight, except for one volunteer department that uses every tone imaginable to alert the troops. They start out with the warbling whistle, then go to high-low alternating tones and then to beeping. They woke me up a couple times during the night (both for medicals). I locked that frequency out after that. Any volunteer who doesn't hear a run for that department has absolutely no excuse.

It was still cold when I got up this morning. When I left it was around 4 degrees, but with no winds. I headed south on I-35 and was surprised the many, many developments of town-homes on the southwestern side of town in what must be West Des Moines. There are hundreds of two and three-story complexes (with 8 to 10 units each) on both sides of I-35. I remember a few of these on past trips, but there must be 200 under construction that haven't been completed yet. What- are all the farmers in Iowa retiring and moving into town-homes?

I was running low on gas as I approached the Kansas City suburb of Kearny around 10:35 am (about 25 miles out from downtown KCMO). I was hearing many broken transmissions on the KCMO trunked radio system. I quickly filled up with gas, cleaned the windows and paid by credit card at the pump. I was thinking about using the rest room, but quickly jumped back onto I-35 in case there was a fire. Just as I got back on the freeway (about 10:45), I heard KCMO Battalion 102 ask "Who are my two rescues on this fire?" on the KCMO Tac-1 group. The dispatcher replied "Rescues 11 and 31." I looked at my EAATC Kansas City map to see about where those companies were located. I decided to head down 435 and then turn west on I-70 a short distance to get me near the fire.

I would later find out that the initial alarm was dispatched at 10:41 by KCMO dispatchers. At 10:50 Battalion 102 (Chestnut Command) notified dispatchers that he was going to a defensive mode. I was getting closer, but could see no smoke as I passed high over the Missouri River. I made my way south to I-70 just as Battalion 102 requested a 2nd Alarm. Companies were told to stage at 33rd and Chestnut.

I got off on 31st Street, thinking I could head west on it and look south along for red lights. I really didn't have any time to look closely at a street map until I could pull over and park. When I did park, I still couldn't find Chestnut Avenue on the map. Chestnut Command notified dispatchers that the walls were buckling. I gave up on the map and kept heading west on 31st Street, watching for Chestnut. I never did see a Chestnut sign, but suddenly I did see red lights two blocks to the south. I turned south one street west and drove down to 33rd Street and parked.

As I walked to 33rd and Chestnut, I could see the fire was still two blocks south (near 35th Street). There were at least nine rigs staging at the intersection. I took as many rig photos with my digital as I could before some companies moved down Chestnut towards the fire. My 35mm slide camera battery died just after I turned the power on (figures). I ran back to the car on the side street and checked for extra batteries for the 35mm. I had an empty plastic pack- but no batteries! I drove down two blocks, parked and then walked over a block and into the fire block. It was still relatively cold- only about 20 degrees.

It was hard to get good photos of the fire building, as the building was on the east side of the street with the sun in the background. I took a bunch of digitals of the almost leveled fire building and of some KCMO working companies. The only two lines that I saw working the fire were from Trucks 2 and 5 who had firefighters directing lines from the tips of the aerial ladders. After I got most of the shots, a firefighter approached me and some other photographers and asked that we not take any more photos as they had a gas leak and were afraid of ignition sparked by our cameras. I left the immediate area and got a couple more rig photos before leaving the scene. The gas company was just arriving in the fire block.

I might have stayed longer except that I needed a restroom in the worst way. It turns out that I wasn't in the nicest part of Kansas City. I drove down a couple main streets hoping to see a Mc Donald's or such. I kept going and going with no relief in sight. When I got to Prospect and 49th, I saw the Highway 71 freeway to the left and got on it. Luckily, after I traveled three or so miles south on 71, I saw a very welcome Mc Donald's sign on the exit info. I got off the freeway and looked for the McDonalds. I couldn't see it. After a few more blocks I saw a very welcome Long John Silver's fast food. I made it to the urinal just in the nick of time- but it was touch and go.

I bought some lunch at Long John's (hey- it's the least I could do for saving me) and headed south on 71 a short distance before I met up with the I-435. I was back on the road again. It was a very sunny day- no clouds in the sky. When I reached Emporia, Kansas the temperature was 30. As I approached Wichita, I decided to get off on Kellogg Drive and look for a Radio Shack store in a shopping area not far off the tollway, that I was familiar with. With help from some citizens I was directed a block away to a Radio Shack. I bought camera batteries and new re-chargables for my old 50-channel regular scanner that wouldn't take a charge last night. The batteries worked and I was on the road again.

I heard a number of medicals on the Wichita trunked system, but no fire runs. I also kept receiving messages from some group that I didn't program into the scanner. I'll have to check that out. It was 35 when I left Wichita.

The 160+ mile drive to Oklahoma City went very quickly. It was 49 in OK City and still without a cloud in the sky. I got the car filled up for the morning and washed when I got near the Red Roof on Meridan Avenue. I drove to nearby OK City Station 24 and got a photo (digital and slide), but Pumper 24 was out. I checked into the motel and started on today's daily report.

I have heard a number of OK City alarms. They still have "Rescue-Ladders" here with the one piece companies (some were two piece a few years back), I just saw the early Fox News here and they covered three fires in OK City: one last night in a southside home with a meth lab: one early AM from a dysfunctional water heater in an occupied southside home: and a smaller home fire in the early afternoon here.

As a post-mortem on the Kansas City, MO fire, here is what responded as best I can figure out: 1st Alarm: Pumpers 18-17-35-? Trucks 5-2 Res 31-11 Bn 102 2nd Alarm: Pumpers 24- 8-30 Truck 10 Res 9-5 HM Bn 106

I may have missed a few rigs in the commotion. I don't think any of the 2nd Alarm companies (other than the Haz Mat) was put to work. In fact, I heard a couple of the 2nd alarm companies sent to fill in at other vacated stations.

That's all for now. Tomorrow it's off to Albuquerque. Take care.

Your roving reporter

Day 3 - Des Moines to Albuquerque

Monday, March 10, 2003

There were no fires during the night- that I am aware of anyway. I had quite a time with the phone line at the Red Roof Inn I was staying at last night. There was some kind of static on the line and I continually got disconnected from Juno (my over-the-road internet provider) last evening. It took me about 15 tries for the E-Mail's to be sent. When I was able to get on the internet, I was disconnected within a few minutes. It was frustrating- but I'm still alive and in good spirits. I believe that the Quint I heard dispatched late yesterday afternoon was on the county frequency- not Oklahoma City.

When I left Oklahoma City this morning it was only 20 degrees out, but surprisingly comfortable in a light jacket. I got on I-40 between just after 7:00am and headed west. It was overcast until I neared Amarillo, Texas around 11:00am. Amarillo still uses the high band for their fire radio system and I heard a lot of traffic, but no fires. What was weird was, that as I traveled through Amarillo (from east to west), the temperature changed from 44 degrees on the east was to 62 degrees on the west. Amarillo is a very wide city (almost 25 miles across) and I did have to stop briefly for gas- but what a difference!

By the time I reached the New Mexico border it was 79 degrees and I had to turn the air conditioning on in the car. There was a ton of road construction on I-40 today- mostly in Texas. One construction zone would end, and a few miles down the road, another would begin.

I don't know how many of you have traveled I-40 through the Tucumcari and Santa Rosa areas of New Mexico, but 75 seems too fast for some of those curves in the freeway through those cities. I felt like a race car driver trying to keep the car in my own lane. That isn't the first time I've noticed that.

The temperature cooled down as I approached the mountains east of the Albuquerque area. As you wind your way though the mountain passes, down through the steep declines between the mountain walls into Albuquerque it cools off quite a bit. Then when you enter the Albuquerque basin it warms up significantly. It was 77 here this afternoon in the city, with a nice breeze. I'll take that any day.

I got off at the first major north-south street (around 2:30pm) as my intention was to get to as many stations on the northeast side as possible. I had done the same thing on the south side of I-40 a couple years ago. I was disappointed that the trunktracker was not receiving the Albuquerque FD. Every now and then I picked up some Bernalillo County fire radio traffic (but not much).

I stopped at AFD Station 8 on the far east end of the city, just below the Sandia Mountains. The station is rather unique in that "Station 8" is spelled out in script neon lighting above the entry. It actually looks pretty good. My next stop was Station 9, where I met a very nice firefighter who just joined the AFD two years ago after serving on the Bernalillo County FD (both departments are represented by the same union, by the way). Engine 9 was using a 1992 Pierce spare and I didn't ask to get a photo (it had been Engine 15 and was still lettered for them). He told me that new Station 20 had opened last fall and gave me directions. I added it to my list.

He also explained that the current apparatus bays on Station 9 were added. The original station had a single door facing south. A new two bay addition was added onto the south side of the old station with apparatus doors facing west. When I asked what kind of rigs the department was getting, he explained that they were back to Pierce. Apparently they had two offbeat rigs between Pierce orders that required them to get brake parts from Europe. I was later told at another station that those rigs have since been sold to a city in Mexico.

My next stop was AFD Station 16. I got a quick station photo there. Station 15 was the next stop where I met a very accommodating firefighter. The station is the only building along a golf course and it is totally surrounded by high netting. When I got out of the car I found a golf ball on the ground and presented it to the firefighter. He said that even though the net is supposed to protect them from golf balls, they still find a lot in the parking lot. He pulled out their new Pierce engine and another firefighter pulled out their ladder truck (which is a quint). They were running with ten men at the station- four each on engine and truck and tow on the medic unit.

I headed up to new Station 20 at 7520 Corona Avenue- a very impressive looking facility that also includes a police sub-station and a community room. I walked up to the front door, which looks in on the all-glass enclosed "coupe" area (they call it the fishbowl). I was met by another very nice firefighter who took me out on the apparatus floor and showed me their new engine. They also had quite a number of police motorcycles in one apparatus bay.

The engine was pulled out so I could get photos and I explained to him what I do with the digital photos. The firefighter asked for our web site address and he pulled up yesterdays journey up on the computer in the "fishbowl." He seemed kind of surprised to see the type of enclosed cab on St. Paul Engine 6 as he scrolled through the website. He told me that Bernilillo County Station 5 was just down the road a mile or two and that they had a lime green Pierce Quantum.

There is some talk of the city taking over that station in the future. Both County Stations 7 and 9 have been taken over by the City of Albuquerque (they are now AFD Stations 27 and 29). They still use the county apparatus, but staffing comes from the AFD. There is also talk of combining the two departments I was told by another firefighter.

I got a station photo and headed to County Station 5. I was surprised to see that the station was totally enclosed by fencing- including a tall fence on the apparatus ramp in front of the apparatus bays. I didn't even try to get into the compound as it was getting late and I needed to find a motel and I hadn't eaten since breakfast.

I checked into a motel and luckily the phone lines work great. I checked on the internet and found a site that explained that both the Albuquerque police and fire had just recently switched to digital trunking. They have had trunking here since about 1999. I really do miss monitoring the AFD while I am visiting.

The City of Albuquerque is building like crazy. Huge areas that were formally sand dunes are being developed on the north side of town. They will eventually run out of room when they get to the mountains on the north, east and west. I took a number of photos looking up into the mountains from various areas I traveled through today.

I'll check the weather tomorrow morning to make sure there's no precipitation along I-40 through the Flagstaff area. If it is clear, I'll go to Lake Havasu area for the night. If the weather looks at all dubious, I'll take the southern route (down I-25 to the Hatch cutoff and then west along I-10) into Phoenix for the night.

That's all for now. Take care until next time.

Your roving reporter.

Day 4 - Kansas City to Lake Havasu

Tuesday, March 11, 2003

It was 36 degrees when I checked out of the motel in Albuquerque shortly after 7:00am. I got on I-40 westbound and headed towards Lake Havasu. As I drove out of Albuquerque I was passed by two Albuquerque police cars headed west out of the city. I thought maybe there was a big wreck someplace nearby. Then, about 10 minutes later, I saw the same two APD squad cars going the opposite direction on I-40 (back towards town). Maybe they had to log some miles?

Some information about Albuquerque before I go on: The mountains on the east peak at 9700 feet, the mountains on the north peak at 8192 feet and the mountains on the west peak at 6597 feet. Albuquerque sits in a large basin between these mountain ranges and is listed at 4953 feet above sea level.

It was an interesting drive across I-40 today. Most of the drive was along old Route 66, which was the first completely paved transcontinental highway in the country and stretched between Chicago and Los Angeles. There was a lot of traffic, few construction zones and a lot of hills to climb before peaking out in the Flagstaff area at around 7250 feet. The highway is full of interesting scenery. The mountains just north of Flagstaff peak out at 12,633 feet. I stopped in Flagstaff (elevation 6894 feet) around noon, for a snack and took a few photos of the mountains. Gas prices there were $1.799, $1.899 and $1.999 for Premium. Temperature in Flagstaff was 64 at noon.

After getting back on I-40 it was mostly downhill from the Flagstaff area, until the Twin Buttes area where you climb again through a rocky passes to about 6000 feet. Then its mostly downhill again into Kingman, Arizona (elevation 3,334 feet), where I stopped to get gas ($1.729 by the way). I got a picture of a Hualapa Valle rig at a local diesel repair shop across from the gas station I filled up at. It was 78 degrees in Kingman.

I got back on I-40 and headed towards the Arizona Highway 95 exit, which takes you almost 20 miles into the City of Lake Havasu. I guess I always thought there was a big, natural Lake Havasu. The City of Lake Havasu is actually situated on a very wide point in the Colorado River that is dammed up at two points (to the north at the Hoover Dam and to the south at the Parker Dam) forming Lake Havasu (approximately 100 miles long). At the City of Lake Havasu, theColorado River (Lake Havasu) is about four miles wide. It was bright and sunny the entire trip across I-40 today.

I printed an 11x17" map of the City of Lake Havasu before I left showing the fire station locations. The populated part of the city is not all that large- only about 20 square miles presently. There is plenty of room to expand to the north and south. The Colorado River (Lake Havasu) is a natural border to the west. To the east lies a range of mountains. The city currently has five fire stations. It was 88 degrees when I arrived in the city.

My first stop was at LH Station 2 on the northern edge of town. The station is brand new and there is also a large fire training facility adjacent. The engine was out on a run (I heard them return on the scanner about 15 minutes later. My next stop was Station 5, which is the closest station to the London Bridge entertainment area and most of the boat launching areas along Lake Havasu. The station was temporarily closed, but because of resident complaints about response times to that area, the station was recently re-opened. Engine 1 was moved to Station 5, leaving Ladder 1 (a quint) at the headquarters station in center city.

My next stop was Station 5. The station is currently being shared by a parks department facilty- I walked in the wrong door when I arrived. I met some very nice firefighters who pulled out their ALF/Becker engine and then because there were work crews there to replace the sprinkler heads in the station, they pulled out the LHFD rehab unit and a classic 1971 Crown 100-foot rear-mount reserve aerial ladder.

My next stop was the historic London Bridge. I stopped after I traversed the historic structure. There are shops, restaurants and recreational areas on both sides of the bridge. I stopped on the island which is Lake Havasu State Park. The island is only about a mile long and a half mile wide. I took a number of photos of the bridge and the entertainment areas. It is a real catch-all for people that want to spend money. It reminds me a little bit of Wisconsin Dells- but in a much more refined way. This isn't an area for a bunch of young kids- although there seems to be an abundant supply of "Spring Breakers" here at this time.

I headed to Station 1. I got lost because none of the roads here go straight. They all wind around (which makes it very difficult to get your bearings. I eventually found the station and met some very friendly firefighters. They pulled the ladder truck out so I could get a photo of it. Tomorrow, Ladder 1 is going in for maintenance, so Engine 2's 75-foot Tele-Squrt was moved there today to fill in for the aerial. I got an indoor photo of Engine 2.

While I was at Station 1, one of the firefighters asked me where I was staying. I said I was probably going to start heading toward the LA area. He told me I should stay in Lake Havasu, as it is the safest area around. I was very reluctant to stay in Lake Havasu. It was very hot and I was fairly tired from the drive. When I thought a bout the 60-mile drive south on Arizona Highway 95 to meet I-10, and then the trip across I-10 to get near civilization- I decided I better stay the night.

I checked out a few motels along Lake Havasu. Most of them were the indoor corridor type- which I dislike immensely. I like to be able to back up to the motel room and quickly unload all the crap I carry with. I don't like the noise either from those inside corridors when inconsiderate people yell down the halls at all hours. But, I ended up staying at a nice new Travelodge across the street from Lake Havasu. I can see the lake and the mountains behind it from my motel window.

The only drawback to the Travelodge was that it didn't have the full local cable television station package- which here includes my favorite station, KTLA. A few other motels I checked out had KTLA (one was very inexpensive, but full of spring breakers and very outdated rooms with directly wired phones). I was surprised when I checked for a Juno dial-up in the Lake Havasu area- there are NONE. So this report will not be sent intil Wednesday evening.

There are plenty of boats and boat trailers visible in this area. You can rent just about anything here for the water: jet skiis, fishing boats, pontoon boats, speed-boats, para-sails, and even house boats. The motel lobby has a tourist display full of information on places that rent all kinds of boats. Down by the entertainment district there are all kinds of boats available for tours. I saw one that displayed "Riverboat Gambling" also.

Tomorrow it is only about a 300 mile drive to the City of Arcadia, where I'll be staying for a week. Karyle flies in to join me on Saturday. I expect to get in there around noon, as I gain another hour when I cross into California. I plan to stop at Lake Havasu Station 3 (south end of town) as I leave the area. I also expect to get off I-10 in the Indio area and check out a few Riverside County stations.

Tomorrow night I will send today's report just after dinner (LA time) and then the Wednesday report in either the late evening or early the following morning. I feel kind of out-of-sorts without the internet tonight. It is amazing how I rely on it to keep up-to-date with just about everything. And two nights in a row without fire radio traffic to listen to. What is this (my) world coming to?

Take care.

Your roving reporter

Day 5 - Lake Havasu to Los Angeles

Wednesday, March 12, 2003

It was a quiet night in Lake Havasu last night. I only heard two runs dispatched and they were both medicals. It was 56 degrees when I got up. I loaded up the car and checked out of the motel at 7:30am and headed south on Arizona Hwy 95. I turned off to see LH Station 3 on the far south side of the city. I got lost trying to find them- well, not exactly. I knew where I was, I just didn't know where the station was. It is so confusing trying to find your way on streets that all curve one way or the other.

By the time I figured out how to get to Station 3, Engine 3 was dispatched on a medical run. I got a station picture and then headed back south on Hwy 95. The drive was just gorgeous as you parallel the Colorado River and the scenery is really breathtaking with the mountains in the background. I could easily have taken a hundred photos or more in the drive down to the Parker Dam.

At one point I tried snapping photos through the window of a gorgeous small city on the far side of the river while driving on the one lane, winding roadway. What I didn't know is that the road would take me in almost a circle and bring me there so I could really get some good photos. I could have stopped 100 times along the roadway, except there are very places to stop along the hilly and winding roadway. It is definitely an area I would consider visiting again.

There were a couple gorgeous golf courses below the cliffs the highway coursed. The views of the bright green fairways below with the Colorado River behind were enough to make me (a non-golfer) want to play the course. I tried taking a couple photos out the window as I was driving, but I don't think they'll do the scenery justice. Talk about a place to retire, there are many gorgeous places in this area- if you don't mind the heat!

The rest of the ride from Parker Dam on south to I-10 was very boring, except for the City of Parker, which looks like it has a large collection of histories railroad passenger cars and an old depot that are being refurbished there. The one lane road can be very slow, especially when you get behind Ma and Pa Kettle pulling their Airstream mobile home. I finally got to Quartzite (I-10 junction) around 9:00am. I didn't really need gas, but I thought I saw gas for $1.729 so I stopped. Turned out it the $1.799 was Diesel- Unleaded was $194.9. I put in five gallons to fill it up anyway.

Quartzite is only 15 miles from the Colorado River which divides Arizona and California. Because of the time change, I arrived in California at 8:15am. I stopped at Mc Donald's in Blythe (on the border) and tried than new McGrill sandwich. Not bad! I had the bacon, egg and cheese McGrill and it was very tasty. The bun is actually a pancake.

It was almost a two-hour drive along the desert from Blyth (elevation 267 feet) until you climb a small mountain and then wind your way down a steep hill into the City of Indio (elevation -16 feet). It was 80 degrees when I got off I-10 in Indio. I stopped at Riverside County Station 86 (formerly the Indio FD). I got a photo of their Tele-Squrt after they pulled the rig out for me.

The RCFD east shops are a few blocks away and I stopped but there weren;t any rigs to get photos of. They told me at the shops that they just awarded a bid to Smeal for 20 1500 gpm pumpers with Spartan cabs. The department also has received two of five new 100-foot tiller aerials.

I headed to RCFD Station 87, a very small station also protecting Indio, but the station was empty. In the short time I was in Indio, the temperature had climbed to 89 degrees. I got back on I-10 and headed towards Arcadia. Traffic was the usual-very heavy. It seemed like I drove through cities forever to get the 122 miles to Arcadia. I finally arrived at around 1:30 and the temperature was 78 degrees.

They had my room ready. I'm on the front side across the street from the Santa Anita Race Track. This is still a very, very nice area. It is very quiet and the homes are extremely nice (I imagine they're in the $500,00 range and up). The motel is only a half mile from the 210 Freeway. I unloaded most of my crap- the cleaning ladies looked at me like I was nuts- especially when I unloaded two cases of Crystal Bay Water (carboned flavored water with no calories) that I can't find anywhere on the West Coast.

When I was finished unloading I heard Burbank Ladder 12 notify dispatchers that they would be at Station 11 for two hours for a EMT class. That sounded like an invitation to visit Burbank to me. I got on the 210 freeway (which will have light rail running down the center this summer) and headed west to I-5 and then north to downtown Burbank. I found new Station 11 (I think its already four years old- but new to me) a block from where the old station was when Duane Troxel and I visited the department in 1977.

When I finally found a place to park behind the station (which is actually a very impressive block square police/fire headquarters complex), I found three Glendale rigs parked- also attending the class. Burbank, Glendale and Pasadena Fire Departments all work very closely together- including training. I got photos of Pasadena Engines 24 and 28 and Ladder 26. I walked around the block to get into the station as there is a security gate in the rear (probably to keep buffs out). Burbank Ladder 12 was parked inside the gate and I got one of the last photos of the 1976 Ward LaFrance/Grove aerial. Their new 100-foot Seagrave tiller is in and being readied for service. I also got a photo of Engine 11 inside the station.

I left the station and saw a fire truck going down a side street. I turned and tried to find them, but they were long gone. I heard "Squad 1" on the air in Santa Monica- that's a new company that I wasn't aware of. If I have time, I'll have to check that out. Ialso want to get down into the City of Commerce to see how the changeover to Montebello Fire Protection is coming there. I believe the switch from LA County to Montebello is to be made by this summer.

I headed back to the motel as it was nearing 4:00 and rush hour here is not something you want to be stuck in. I headed back and sure enough, there was a big backup on the 210 near Pasadena. I believe some of the backup was caused by gawkers who were looking at the construction and trains along the new light rail construction. The stations along this section are like those in Chicago with stations at bridges crossing over the freeway. I think this is the "Gold Line" (Light rail lines here are colors).

They had a huge disaster simulation at LAX Airport here early this morning. They said the smoke could be seen for 30 miles. I haven't heard any fires since I arrived, but I've heard a ton of runs. This is one busy area. It seems like LA County is sending more units on alarms than they were before. It may be to get the required manpower to the fire scene with many of the companies running short.

I've put 2300 miles on the car just getting here. The cheapest gas I've seen in this area is $2.039 per gallon for Unleaded. I'm not looking to having to fill the tank up in the LA area as it'll be over $30.00!

That's all for now. Take care.

Your roving reporter

Day 6 - In Los Angeles area

Thursday, March 13, 2003

It was 65 and sunny, but very hazy (smoggy) when I left the motel this morning. I sent out the Day 5 report while watching the KTLA news until about 9:00am and then headed out. They had a feature on the news with the Los Angeles County Fire Department about home safety classes you can take at LA County Stations. They had the newsperson from KTLA in a smoke filled demonstration and showed how they located her (by her body heat) with their thermal imaging devices. The LA County spokesperson said they had thermal imaging camera's on all 33 of the counties ladder trucks and a few specialized and USAR units also.

I left with the intention of getting to the Montebello Fire Department to try and find out how the switch in contracts from LA County to Montebello is coming along for the City of Commerce. I headed south past LA County Stations 166 (empty) and 4 on the way. LA County Engine 47 pulled up to Station 4 in front of me. I got photos of Engine 47 and Engine 4 and then Quint 4, when they limped back to quarters with a broken spring on the tractor duals.

I kept heading south to Montebello Station 1. Engine 53 was parked out front and I got a photo. I asked a couple firefighters about the switchover and nobody had anything definite to offer other than the contract was supposed to take effect April 1, 2003. Engine 51 and Ladder 511 were out and I asked if they'd be back soon. A firefighter told me they were at a civic function at the park across form Montebello City Hall.

I headed there in hopes of catching some photos. I got some pix just before they left. I even took a photo (mostly for Karyle) of some barnyard animals that had been brought for the kids. Then I headed to Montebello Station 2. Engine 52 was just leaving as I pulled up out front. I stopped in and talked to some people in their fire prevention office and was told the new apparatus was due any time fro the switchover. Apparently Montebello had hired enough staff to man the stations in Commerce. But I still didn't have a good firm answer from anybody.

I decided to head to LA County Station 50 in Commerce (the next station west). I ran into Engine 50 half way between when they pulled into a service station to get a propane tank refilled. They were using a reserve rig. I talked to their crew and they said the whole thing is tied up in court. Apparently there has been a court injunction postponing the switchover for two months (or maybe more). There are still some issues that aren't finalized I guess. One of the issues being discussed is staffing by paramedics at the Commerce stations. It sounds like a group of Commerce residents have been involved in getting the court injunction.

I headed towards LA City stopping at Vernon Station 1. Just as I was getting out of the car, Vernon Ladder 1 returned to quarters and I got their photo plus one of a classic 1963 reserve Crown 2000gpm engine out in their training area. Firefighters told me that the Crown was the first 2000 gpm pumper west of the Mississippi. I didn't have the heart to tell them that Minneapolis had two 2000 gpm pumpers in 1948 (and Minneapolis is west of the Mississippi- although barely).

I kept heading west with the next stop being LA City Station 21. Just as I pulled into the block, LA City Light Force 20 arrived on the scene of a fire at 617 N Bonnie Brae and reported they had heavy smoke and fire showing from the rear of a four-plex. I had not heard the alarm as the radio was very busy today and you can easily miss a transmission here and there.

I wasn't that far form the 101 Freeway, so I decided to head towards that area in case they had a good fire going. There was a lot of fire-ground traffic on the Tac channel, so I missed hearing them ask for an additional task force. I did hear them dispatch the companies however. The 101 was quite busy for mid-day. It was very slow going through the Santa Monica Freeway junction. I looked at the map as best I could and could not find Bonnie Brae on the map. As I was looking at my LA City map of the area while moving in traffic, I decided to take the 101 Freeway a short distance towards the Alvarado exit and get off their as that should be the area where Light Force 20 would be first on the scene with the companies they responded with. I heard them stage companies on Bellevue, so I had another street to look for. I heard them call in a knockdown just as I was getting on the 101.

When I got off the freeway I headed north on Alvarado towards 20's and sure enough I came across Bellevue a block off the freeway. I turned left towards 20's and could not see anything. As I came back down the hill to Alvarado, I saw companies on the other side on top of a very steep hill (which is very common in that area of the city). The fire was one block off Alvarado and one block from the 101 freeway.

I parked on a side street just a half block away. They were just starting to release some of the companies. The fire had started outside the rear of the fire building and had burned into the structure and spread to the second floor. I am enclosing the PIO's report of the greater alarm which is on the Yahoo LA City FD website.

I talked to the Battalion 11 aid and he gave me the alarm assignments as follows:

• 1217 hours- LF 20, Engine 20, Light Force 3, Engine 6, Light Force 11 and Battalion 11
• 1227 hours- Engine 13, Light Force 4, Squad 4, RA 20, Battalion 5 & Division 1
• I also saw Engine 11 leaving the fire (but they weren't on the assignment he had)

I got a number of photos of the scene and the rigs left overhauling. I had the great pleasure of meeting KTLA Reporter Stan Chambers, a legend in the news business. Stan has been with KTLA for 56 years. Stan did the very first remote broadcast from the field when a baby fell down a well fifty some years ago. They were on the scene the entire time until the baby was rescued from the narrow well.

KTLA was always been a pioneer in the news broadcast business. They were the first station in the county to have a news truck capable of remote broadcasting from the field. They were also the first news station in the country to use helicopters for live broadcast. It was a real honor to shake Stan Chambers hand. Los Angeles named a street in Stan's honor- on his 50th Anniversary with KTLA. I remember at the time, the mayor gave Stan a very kind compliment. He told Stan that he had absolutely no idea what Stan's political feelings were and he had watched him for years. The mayor added that for a reporter to work that long and report the news daily in a totally unbiased manner was a great accomplishment. He then asked whom Stan was voting for in the upcoming election. Stan laughed, but did not respond. Stan was kind enough to let me take his photo at the fire scene today.

While enroute to the fire, I had heard Glendale companies report they were out at Burbank FD headquarters again. I decided to head up that way and see if I could catch some more rigs. It was a short ride up the Glendale Freeway and then north on the Golden State Freeway (I-5). I caught Glendale Engines 24, 25 and 29 and Ladder 26 out back of Burbank's headquarters (Station 11). While I was visiting with a firefighter in the station, they were all called to the apparatus floor as they were going to check on a building they would have a practice burn in this Saturday morning.

I waited outside for them to pull out and got photos of Engine 11 and Ladder 11. One correction for yesterday's report: the rig that Ladder 12 ws using yesterday was a reserve rig. Ladder 11 has a 1997 Seagrave 100-foot tiller. Ladder 11 is getting the new rig and their 1993 Seagrave tiller will become the reserve.

I went by Pasadena Station 33, also their training facility. I was a little to late. The rigs were all gone, but there was plenty of water still covering the training area from recent drilling. I also drove by PFD Stations 32 and 37 on the way back to Arcadia. The temperature had been around 74 most of the time I was in the basin, but had climbed to 78 when I was in Burbank.

It is supposed to cool off a bit here in the next few days. The haze should clear up also. Because of the smog I was unable to take any long-distance scenery shots today. I plan on going into the San Fernando Valley tomorrow. I had to get gas today. I wasn't totally out, but I didn't want to get stuck on a freeway when the gas was low. I paid $2.039 a gallon, just before the price was raised to $2.079 a gallon.

Take care. Until tomorrow.

Your roving reporter

Day 7 - In Los Angeles area

Friday, March 14, 2003

It was extremely hazy this morning. It almost looked like rain. I left the motel around 9:00 and headed to the LA City FD Shops. I walked into the shop office and Captain Tombrella came out to escort me around the shops. Captain Tombrella was very helpful and took me to see a couple of the latest department acquisitions.

The first was one of the new Rehab/Air Supply units that the department will be putting into service this summer. There will be four of these units placed into service. They will respond to fires on request for air bottles or long rehab situations. One of the units will replace the current Emergency Air unit that now runs from the shops. The units will carry 100 air bottles and are also capable of refilling bottles. One of the most useful tools on the new units is in the rear- a one-hole privy! A number of the shop people were talking about how popular that will be at the fire scene.

One of the interesting aspects of these units is that they will be manned at the scene by volunteers. A firefighter will drive the unit to the scene and then volunteers will take over operation. One of the chiefs that stopped by was wondering what they will call them for the purposes of the CAD system (for dispatch). Unless they use the current "Emergency Air" type fire unit now in the CAD system, a new category will have to be programmed into the CAD system- and that is very complicated. The chief said that the CAD system is secured and they can not change the setup.

The department has just received the first unit of three of four "Swift Water Rescues" for use in serious flooding situations (they may have that this weekend according to weather forecasts). Also on order are eleven Seagrave "Triples" and eleven Pierce "Triples". There are also four or six more ALF/LTI 100-foot aerials still coming.

Captain Tombrella also said that they are working on a new Station 36 for the area between Station 85 and Station 112 in the San Pedro area. What I saw yesterday at Station 21 was not a remodeling, but starting of a demolition. The current station now faces south on 52nd Street and the old training tower sits behind it. The training tower will be demolished first and the new Station will be built facing 51st Street. Then the old station will be demolished and a new training facility erected there. I asked how if new Station 7 has been started up in the Valley and he said he has not heard. He did say that a new Station 4 will incorporate a new dispatch center on Alameda Street.

I also got pictures of a few other rigs at the shops. I can not tell you how professional the entire staff of the Los Angeles Fire Department treats the public here. It is very obvious that the department has Public Relations at the very top of its priorities. Every member of the department treats me like I were an integral part of their organization It goes through all the ranks of the department.

Every time I visit this area, I come away more impressed by the LA City Fire Department. Captain Tombrella was extremely helpful and very friendly- as were all the mechanics, firefighters and officers I came into contact with at the shop facility. They all are the utmost in professionals to the fire service. They truly are a "Class 1" fire department in more than one way.

I headed through the Chinatown section of downtown then out Sunset Boulevars and Hollywood Boulevard on the way to the San Fernando Valley. There were still a number of stations in the valley that I had not been to since 1976 when Duane Troxel and I visited the entire department.

I came across a new Art Museum that looked very much like the new museum at the University of Minnesota (that artist must have escaped from the looney bin again). I went by Station 3 and was suddenly surrounded by a motorcycle gang- well not exactly a gang, really. The bikers were going to participate in the St. Patrick's Day Parade, as was Task Force 3. Engine 4 had moved in to fill in during the parade. I got photos of the rigs as they left quarters carrying dignitaries for the parade.

I drove by LA City Stations 20, 35 and 76 on the way up to the Valley. The sun broke out and the haze started burning off. It became a beautiful day in a few minutes. I got photos of Engine 82 and Engine 76 out and about. I headed up into the Universal City area. I had not been on those streets for ages. I was very impressed with how well that area of the city is kept up. There are hundreds of very nice, large apartment complexes, but the streets are all full of parked cars- almost no parking available anywhere. I got lost trying to find Station 86, but eventually figured out how to get there. Engine 60 was filling in as Engine 86 was at drivers training. When asked about new Station 7 in the Valley, one of the firefighters said that he had seen the plans for the new station. He said that the rigs would enter on the backside of the station and then respond out opposite directions- the engine out one direction and the rescue ambulance ("RA") out the other. The dorms would also be separated so that the engine crew would not hear an "RA" run being dispatched at night.

I headed to temporary Station 86- their facility was destroyed by the Northridge Earthquake. I got a photo of what could be called the "Tin House" and FDNY station of similar construction. I got a station photos at Station 102 and Station 89. At Station 90 (Van Nuys Airport Station) they were doing drills when I pulled up.

They had a number of firefighters dressed in full turnout gear. They had been blindfolded and were crawling on the floor of the station simulating a Rapid Intervention Rescue. Charged hose line lay twisted along the apparatus bays with all kinds of objects (tables. Lawnmowers, etc) placed along the hose line as obstacles. The firefighters would hear the call for help, trace their way along the hose line (which overlapped in a number of places to make it difficult) in a crawling or prone position until they came to the firefighter in distress (his alarm mechanism was activated) and then they would pull the firefighter along the floor while tracing the same hose line on the way out. Believe me, they were working hard- they were all sweating up a storm after finishing the drill.

A very nice Captain took me on a tour of the apparatus and showed me their new Helicopter Tender. They used to have two crash trucks at Station 90, but one was moved to the other side of the field with the Helicopter Unit. They are expecting a new crash unit at Station 90 in the near future. I got a photo when the Captain pulled out the Helicopter Tender for me.

My nest stop was at Station 100, where one of the new foam units is assigned. Just as I walked up to the station the doors opened and RA 100 (one of the two Freightliner RA's) responded on an alarm. I got an indoor photo of Foam Tender 100 which is a very impressive rig. There are four of these new foam units that were in the shops being outfitted on my last visit.

I went by Stations 103 and 70 on the way to the 118 Freeway. Both were on very busy streets with short ramps and I didn't stop in as I knew apparatus photos were out of the question. I did get station photos- and they were even hard to get. I hopped on the 118 Freeway and headed east towards the 210 Freeway. I was surprised at how good both those freeways moved. I was prepared for a slow journey on the approximately 25-mile return to the Pasadena area. I think it took me less than 20 minutes to go from the northern valley back to Pasadena. I was impressed.

I drove by Pasadena Station 33 (Training) and saw a couple rigs out back. It turned out that Engine 37 was returning their spare as their regular rig had been in the shops. I got photos of both rigs. I talked with the crew and they said that the department had just purchased two Pierce engines. They said that at present they were running with four and four on their engines and trucks.

On the way back to the motel, Pasadena Ladder 32 and Haz Mat 32 turned the corner in front of me. I couldn't get the ladder, but I did get a photo of the Haz Mat, which had also been at the shops for repair. It turned into a gorgeous sunny afternoon. It reached 73 degrees around noon and then started cooling off around 2:00. It was 66 when I returned to the motel. It is supposed to rain here tomorrow- and maybe the next day too.

Karyle flies in tomorrow afternoon. I'll pick her up at the airport around 1:00 PM. I plan on going to the Burbank burn in the morning if it is not pouring rain. Then I'll head out towards LAX.

That's all for today. What looked like a gloomy day this morning sure turned into an enjoyable afternoon here. It was about as perfect as you can get. The haze burned off the low lying areas in short duration, but took longer to clear from the mountains (which had been almost invisible earlier).

Take care.

Your roving reporter

Day 8 - In Los Angeles area

Saturday, March 15, 2003

It started pouring here some time during the night. It was raining cats and dogs when I finally got myself out of bed. There was certainly no hurry to go anywhere today. Karyle's flight was due to arrive at 1:27PM. There were no overnight fires in the area that I am aware of.

There was plenty of fire radio action today, however. The radio rarely was quiet for more than a few seconds with all hundreds of accidents, many of them on the freeway and quite a few reported as rollovers. There were wires down calls, flooding calls, rescues from flooded cars, and alarms that were set off due to the downpour. There were even a couple swift water rescue calls. While it poured and poured, there was no lightning or winds like we get back in Minnesota.

I lounged around the motel until about 11:00AM when I left for the airport. Knowing what a helpless situation it is to be stuck behind an accident on the freeway (having done it before), I decided to take all surface streets to the airport. I gave myself plenty of time. I planned a route that I thought would keep me high and dry. There are plenty of areas to avoid here when you get this kind of downpour.

I headed down familiar streets, almost heading directly south from the motel down to the City of Commerce and then heading west cutting across south central streets like Slauson and Florence. I ran into eight or so blocks on Florence Avenue where the streets were totally flooded and the water was up to the doorways of the stores. I ran into a railroad crossing sign that was stuck down. I followed a bunch of other cars that turned off on a side street and we all had to drive through some pretty deep water to get out of the area.

It was definitely an adventure going the 40+ miles to LAX. I was amazed that I did not see one accident the whole route there. I saw plenty of flooded cars, but not as much as a fender bender. People were walking through one and two feet of water with shopping bags in their arms. Cars were spraying water everywhere. It took me about one and three quarter hours to get to the airport (better than being stuck on the freeway for who knows how long without moving). I didn't want to take a chance that I'd get stuck some place and have Karyle sitting and waiting at the airport.

I parked about a half mile away from the airport and watched planes land on the northern runway of LAX. It ended up being a rather long wait. While Karyle's flight arrived around 1:15pm, her luggage did not end up arriving at the carousel until 2:00pm. She finally called me around 2:10 and I picked her up outside the terminal. It took us almost an hour and a half to get back to the motel, even using the freeways. While we were on the way to the motel, LA County did a lot of moveups- but I'm not sure where the fire was. The radio was so busy I'm sure I missed at least half of the radio traffic taking place.

After Karyle checked into her room we drove over to the Fashion Mall (now called the Westfield Mall) adjacent to the Santa Anita Race Track across from our motel. I was surprised to see that they still had horse racing in this wet weather at Santa Anita today. The rain had slowed down- just a bit. The mall was just packed! We had dinner and did a little walking and a little shopping. When we left the rain had stopped.

Around 8:27pm LA City had a working fire at 11431 S Link Street in a single family dwelling. Dispatched were TF64, TF33, E57, RA64 and Bn 13. Rescue Ambulance 64 arrived first on the scene and reported heavy smoke from a duplex. Companies quickly knocked down the fire and were held for overhaul for about an hour. Just about that time it started to pour here again. It wasn't long before reports of major accidents started coming in again.

I am enclosing two recent postings on the LAFD Yahoo website. One explains some of the activities from yesterdays Saint Patrick's Day Parade here. The other is regarding the new LAFD full-sized fireboat that will go into service in April. I am also including some additional photos from yesterday.

Earlier they had said that it was supposed to rain tomorrow. It seems that the front came through faster than they thought, and now there is no rain predicted. I've seen enough rain to last me awhile. The drive to and from the airport today was not a fun one. We'll play tomorrow by ear. Karyle wants to go to the ocean tomorrow- apparently she didn't see enough water today!

Take care.

Your roving (and damp) reporter

Day 9 - In Los Angeles area

Sunday, March 16, 2003

The rains here yesterday set an all time record for a single day rainfall in the City of Los Angeles- 4.08 inches. And that record had already been set by the time the 10pm news here was on, and it was still raining. I think I'd have rather been in Minneapolis where you almost set a record high yesterday.

But today was a much different day here. I was pleasantly surprised when I awoke this morning to see sunny skies. It was 62 when we left the motel around 9:00am. We headed to the local Hometown Buffet (the same as our local Old Country Buffets) for Sunday Brunch. We both ate enough to keep us going for the rest of the day.

To take advantage of the awesome weather, we headed directly for the ocean- a good 35 miles away. We took the San Bernadino Freeway (I-10) towards downtown LA and then continued on the Santa Monica Freeway (also I-10) to the ocean. The temperature reached 70 as we drove across the basin. We got off on US Highway 1 (Pacific Coast Highway) headed toward Malibu. It was just an absolutely gorgeous day.

We turned around after driving along PCH and headed towards Venice Beach. We parked in a lot right on the beach walk ($6.50). We started walking north along the beach walk and enjoyed looking at all the many vendors selling their wears. Some of the items are very unusual and the craftsmanship is unbelievable. Others are just your typical junk you find at any art fair. You can get your palm read, your face painted, your body tattooed, or your body pierced at any one of several spots along the walk.

Karyle walked down to the ocean while I took photos of LA City FD Engine 63 while they slowly drove the paths along Venice Beach. There were the usual hoards of skateboarders, bicycle riders, roller skaters, surfers, joggers and pedestrians all over the place. We saw a few peda-cabs on the walk for the first time.

It was awesome just to be able to be outdoors after yesterdays rain marathon. The rain significantly cleaned up the air in the area- the smog was gone. We watched a number of the entertainers (some probably don't really meet the criteria to be called entertainers) along the walk attempting to earn cash from their audience. We watched the firefighter do his usual act of blowing fire, balancing objects on his chin, balancing a young boy in a card table chair on his chin while turning around (no hands) and generally embarrassing members of his audience to the delight of others. We did plenty of walking back and forth along the beach just enjoying the excellent weather and viewing the many different types of characters that frequent Venice Beach.

One of the funnier things we saw wasn't really meant for anybodies entertainment. It was a local street person on a balance beam dancing and doing his version of an Olympic routine to music only he could hear. It was a hoot and a half!

Around 2:00, after the wind had started blowing pretty good, we decided to head up the coast to the Santa Monica Pier area and the 3rd Street Promenade. The Promenade was also full of entertainers and artists showing their wares. A couple of the groups were really good, especially a musical group from Argentina. They sounded great!

After both of us complained about our feet being tired from all the walking, we decided to head up into the hills along Mulholland Drive to take advantage of the gorgeous day and very clear weather. We headed north on the 405 Freeway and got off at Mulholland Drive. We slowly made our way along the ten mile or so winding drive along the mountain range that divides the San Fernando Valley from the basin. There are many opportunities to take scenic photos all along the drive- and we did. We also visited LAFD Stations 99, 108 and 97 which are along the drive. We got plenty of photos.

When we came down Cuahenga Boulevard by the Hollywood Bowl, we must have passed 200 plus limousines parking in the Hollywood Bowl parking lot or headed there. I've never seen more limos in my life. Some of them were stretched longer than any I'd ever seen. When we got to Hollywood Boulevard we experienced a traffic nightmare. The streets were full of limos partaking in the 50th Anniversary Celebration of ABC TV. Parts of Hollywood Boulevard were closed for the anniversary event. They had erected some huge tents on the boulevard. They must not have known Karyle and I were in town as we never got our invitattions.

We got much-needed gas in the area ($2.099/gallon). We took a detour around the ABC thing and headed in Sunset Boulevard by the KTLA Studios and then all the way down to Alvarado Street where we caught the 2 Freeway (Glendale Freeway). We took that until we ran into the 134 Freeway (Ventura Freeway) and got off near our motel in Arcadia.

It was just getting dark when we stopped at Tony Roma's for dinner. Karyle was so tired she could hardly keep awake. I told her I'd take it easier on her tomorrow. We enjoyed a very good meal and finally got back to the motel around 7:30 pm. It had truly been a very enjoyable, but long, day.

Saturday night, Anaheim had a raging fire in a huge home that required mutual aid from Fullerton and Orange County during at the evening downpour. The local news footage showed the home going from stem to stern. LA City had two incidents overnight that also made the news. I am enclosing the LAFD PIO Reports of these incidents with this report.

I am about ready to fall asleep myself as I complete this report. I will probably delay sending this report out until first thing in the morning.

Take care. I hope you had as good a day as we did.

Your roving reporter

Day 10 - In Los Angeles area

Monday, March 17, 2003

It was another gorgeous morning when I awoke this morning. The sun was shinning and it was as clear as I've ever seen it in the LA area. LA County had a working fire in Engine 6's first due area in the Lomita area about the time we left this morning. That fire was quickly knocked down. When we headed out this morning it was 62 degrees- very invigorating, with a nice breeze.

We headed around the Santa Anita Race Track to the Westfield Mall. We had breakfast in the food-court and then exchanged some items I bought the other day. Karyle wanted to checkout a pet store that advertised cats and dogs in the paper here. She checked the place out, but found only one puppy in the entire store.

We headed up Santa Anita Boulevard, a gorgeous tree-lined street with very nice and very expensive homes lining it. We stopped by Arcadia 1 and I got photos of AFD Engines 2 and 3 out back. We decided to head up into the City of Burbank where the city has done an awesome job of rejuvenating their downtown area and there are beautiful homes being built up into the hills overlooking the thriving city.

We stopped at the Police-Fire building as I'd heard they had a nice museum with a fully restored steamer. We were disappointed to find out that the museum only opens for appointments with groups. They have the full length side of a Seagrave engine mounted along the wall (but only about 2 feet deep) and you can see the steamer and other trivia inside the glass enclosed museum. There is also a fully restored 1950's Ford police car inside the museum.

At about the time we were leaving, a call came into LA City dispatchers for a fire in the 600 block of Ocean Front walk at Venice Beach. Within minutes LF 63 was on the scene reporting flames coming for the second floor of a three-story apartments over commercial structure. I believe they got at least another two task forces, Squad 4, two battalion chiefs, an RA and a Division Chief on the Greater Alarm. We were going to go up into northern San Fernando Valley so we got on the Ventura Freeway and headed west.

About the same time, Engine 81 in South Pasadena reported they had a working fire in their city (I believe on Palermo Lane) and requested mutual aid from Pasadena. I didn't hear much more about that fire as the LA City job kept the airwaves hopping. We were heading south on I-5 to the 134 Freeway (Ventura Freeway) when LA City Engine 44 reported they had smoke showing from a working fire and requested a full assignment. They got Task Force 50 and Engine 55 that I heard. I never heard the exact address.

They requested additional companies on the 600 Ocean Front Fire as winds had driven flames into the cockloft of the building and they were having a difficult time accessing the flames. I heard them requested two additional Tac channels and three additional Battalion Chiefs to the scene. I also heard LA County notify Station 110 (about a mile from the fire) that LA City had a major working fire.

As we drove across the 134 we saw LF102 heading east (probably to fill in out by 44's). When we approached the 405 Freeway, we were just 12 miles north of the fire at the 405 Freeway (San Diego Freeway). We would still have to travel about four miles on city streets once we got off the 405. I told Karyle I just couldn't pass up taking in the fire, as it was now a Major Emergency. She said go for it and we headed south on the 405.

We could not see the smoke from the fire as we got through the Sepulveda Pass, but the wind was blowing so strong from the ocean that the smoke would be blown along the ground. We saw LA City Engine 7 get off the freeway by Century City to fill in at some station. We took the Santa Monica Freeway for a couple miles (to minimize driving time) and got off on 4th Street, which brought us within two miles of the fire. We traveled down 4th Street until we saw the rigs a few blocks east. It took us a few minutes to find a place to park and then we had to walk in a couple more blocks.

The fire had been knocked down, but smoke still clung to the ground in the area. Karyle said "ish" as we walked through some of the wind-blown smoke. I guess there's no hope of ever making her into a fire buff. We got a few photos of the ocean-front side of the fire building, which had burned through the roof on the 3rd floor and had also burned down into units on the 2nd floor also. There were a number of companies parked on the beach walk where vendors had to scurry to move their wares out of the way. Some of the tables used to display their wears still stood near companies.

We started walking around the fire scene and I started taking photos of as many companies as I could (quite a few companies were in areas that were taped off and guarded by the LAPD) in the couple blocks around the fire scene. The address the LAFD used for the fire was 6 Breeze Avenue.

I was amazed at the hydrant hookup of Engine 269, which supplied most of the water to the fire. They fed three 4-inch supply lines to companies along the beach walk. From what I could see, only one other engine was pumping at a hydrant. I spoke with the Engineer on Engine 269 and he told me that he has supplied as much as 2500 gpm's from one hydrant before. Note the photo I took of the hydrant hookup. You figure it out!

Here is a list of what I saw at the fire: TF63, E62, E43, TF5, E59, TF92, TF69, LF37, LF58, TF66, LF33, TF15, Sqd 4, about 5 RA's, and who knows how many Battalion Chiefs. I've enclosed the LAFD PIO report of the incident. I saw no Santa Monica companies or LA County companies at the scene.

We were walking back to the car when Beverly Hills Engine 1 reported fire involving garages in the rear of homes- I didn't get the address. At the same time, LA City Engine 7 said they were on the scene of a working fire in Beverly Hills and that they were going to assist. Engine 71 and a few other LA City companies also had responded as the fire was on the border of the two cities (which I didn't find out until a half hour later.

We headed back up 4th Street to the Santa Monica freeway and headed east on it. I didn't know the address of the fire but I decided to get off on Robertson Boulevard and head up towards Beverly Hills. As we were traveling down the freeway the traffic suddenly slowed to a halt. We started to crawl a little and then saw an overturned car in the east-bound car pool lane. How that happened I'll never know as there were no ramps, curves in the roadway, hills or anything else that could see cause something like this to occur.

About this time I heard some company report flames visible from the 2nd floor rear of a three-story apartment building. I heard LF 26, Engine 229, Engine 52 and a few other companies being put to work. Then I heard Battalion 11 as 6th Street command which gave me an idea of about where the fire was. I heard an additional Task Force sent to the fire and to stage on 6th Street. As I still didn't know the address of the Beverly Hills fire, so I decided to head up to 6th Street and then go east until I ran into the fire. The fire, which turned out to be in 500 block of South Kingsley Drive was quickly knocked down.

There was little smoke visible as we arrived. I got photos of quite a few companies that were just starting to pick up. This fire got TF29, E52, E6, TF26, TF11, TF27, E82, E20, RA?, Bn 5 and Bn 11.

We finally heard the address of the Beverly Hills fire- it was 9902-04 Durrant Drive (one block south of Santa Monica Boulevard). I would never have found that fire going up Robertson Boulevard. Engine 7 had been filling in at nearby Station 92 when the city also got calls for the fire which was only a half block inside Beverly Hills . They had two double garages and a couple of vehicles involved with flames threatening other nearby structures.

When we left the Kingsley Boulevard fire we headed up to Hollywood Boulevard. We found a great street parking a few blocks form the new Kodak Theater (home to this Sunday's upcoming Academy Awards). We checked out shops along the busy strip and then wandered into the Hollywood and Highland Entertainment Complex, adjacent to the Kodak Theater.

We were both awed by the very ornate façades around the central circular open courtyard with four stories of shops, dining and entertainment surrounding it. We saw the red carpet where the many stars would walk as they arrived at the theater for the awards ceremony. Stands had already been erected on Hollywood Boulevard for the throngs of star-seeking spectators.

There was very tight Security everywhere. It seemed like every thirty feet there was uniformed security. We took a number of photos of the ornate complex and the great views behind into the Hollywood hills. Tomorrow the street will be closed until the awards ceremony is over. No one was allowed near the Kodak Theater itself. That area had steel barricades in place and was also staffed with uniformed security. All the workers in the area had large plastic badges with large ID photos hung from their necks.

We finally left the area around 4:00 and headed back to Arcadia. When we arrived in the area, we drove to a nearby Home Town Buffet in Temple City (just a few miles from our motel). We had a very enjoyable meal and headed back to the motel to relax. Karyle said she was tired, but not nearly as bad as the night before.

Tomorrow morning we head to Las Vegas. It turned out to be just another gorgeous day here. It was a little windy, but the mid and upper 60's weather was very comfortable. The sun was hot and we are both now a dark shade of pink.

Take care.

Your roving reporter

Day 11 - Los Angeles to Las Vegas

Tuesday, March 18, 2003

Los Angeles County had a working fire around 5:00am this morning. I can't remember the address. I wrote it down on a napkin at the time and I threw the napkin away I was packing this morning. Sorry about that.

We left the motel in Arcadia just before 9:00am, but not before a major power outage knocked power out in the area. It was fun trying to shave in the dark. At least with the curtains drawn back you could see pretty well. As we were leaving we noticed that the police were at a number of intersections where the power had failed.

We got on the Foothill (210) Freeway and headed east. We turned north at I-15 and had a spectacular view of snow-covered Mount San Antonio (10,064 feet). The freeway (the I-15) had road construction almost the entire way. There were still two lanes (narrow, but wide enough for two cars) in most places, but there was no shoulder much of the way. One of the construction segments lasted 35 miles.

We made pretty good time even though much of the route was reduced in speed to 60 mph. I got a call from a very old friend of mine just as we were entering Nevada. It was kind of weird cause the person said "55, 56" and it took me a minute to remember he was using our old unit numbers. . "56" (Dave Lee) had called to tell me ("55") that Darrell Mulroy ("63"), one of our old Citizens Band Emergency Patrol cohorts, had passed away. Darrell was a radio disc jockey who still had a Sunday nite oldies show on one of our local radio stations.

Duane Troxel ("26") got me involved with that CBEP group back in the late 60s. We had a number of members who used to assist the police department by doing menial tasks (like blocking traffic at accident scenes and fires). We freed up squad cars so they weren't out of service for long durations blocking traffic. We all had some portable emergency lighting equipment that we put on top of our vehicles at the scene of an emergency.

We also helped them locate stolen cars. I remember one month I was proud of myself as I found eleven stolen cars (all but one parked). The one that was not parked was being driven by an underage youngster who jumped from the car (while it was still moving) when he noticed I was driving alongside and talking on the two-way radio). Those were the good old days. I'm sorry I will have to miss Darrell's ("63's") Memorial Service.

Karyle came down with some kind of bug last night. She was not feeling well the entire drive. We had to stop a couple times when she felt nauseated. But we made it to Las Vegas by about 1:00 and checked into the Residence Inn here in Las Vegas by 1:30.

The unit is very nice except that it is on the second floor and it's a pain to carry all the junk up and down flights of stairs. There are two bedrooms, one on the second floor with the small kitchenette and living room (including a fireplace), and the other (mine) is on the third floor directly above the other bedroom. We both have full baths, writing desks, phones and televisions (plus one TV in the living room also). The second floor bedroom does not go to the ceiling, so its more like a loft.

Karyle took a nap after we unloaded out crap. I headed to visit a few fire stations. I first stopped at the Clark Couth FD Headquarters where I got a photo of Engine 18 outside. I was told by a nice firefighter that I could not come into the station, however. Clark County is on lockdown status with its stations- no one can enter, not even a girl scout troop! I always wondered if the girl scouts weren't full of terrorists. Right!.

I was told this was the case because of President Bush's speech last night and because some suspicious characters on the east coast had gotten into some fire stations and seemed to be acting very suspicious- trying to take photos of critical materials supposedly (that's what they told me anyway). I guess I'll just have to catch rigs out on the street. That shouldn't be all that hard to do, as both departments are extremely busy here.

I went to a few stations I had not visited in 2001, when Karyle and I were last here. I stopped at Station 22 and was told they could not let me in. The same was true at new Station 26. Engine 65 was outside drilling at Station 26 however, and I was allowed to take photos of it. I did also take station photos. I also went by Station's 21 and 15, but there was no activity at either of them.

I stopped by the CCFD combination Shops and Training Facility. I asked a Captain there if I could take photos of the apparatus out in the yard. He said "No problem." He had recognized me from a couple years ago as he asked me if I had been there before. I said yes, in 2001. He told me they were putting a class of 50 rookies through their training. The rookies were all over the place- some doing Physical Training, some climbing ladders, some laying hose and some in the classroom. He also told me that they had three new stations under construction at this time. I believe they were Stations 32, 38 and 65.

On the way back to the Residence Inn, I went by new Las Vegas Station 10, which opened since we were here. The sun was too low behind the station for me to get a photo. It is fairly close to our unit so I should have many chances to get by there in the morning.

Karyle was still sleeping when I returned to the unit. We'll probably just lay back tonight and relax while she recuperates. Hopefully she'll be fine by tomorrow.

That's all for today. Take care.

Your roving reporter

Day 12 - In Las Vegas area

Wednesday, March 19, 2003

At 3:23 am, Clark County Engine 14 arrived on the scene of a 2-story dwelling reported to be fully involved. Engine 14 said they were "Pacific I/C and were pulling a 5inch supply and their cross-lays to attack the fire." They also requested that the Mobile Air unit be started (also has lights). Battalion 3 arrived and took over as Pacific I/C. It was reported that the home may be vacant. Engine 18 was assigned exposure control and reported they were stretching a "two and a half." Engine 218 reported they were going to use their Stang to try and knock down heavy fire. Ladder 4 was assigned to check for extension in a garage nearby. The I/C requested the Heavy Rescue to the scene. At 3:38 Engine 14 reported that there as a basement in the dwelling as they had gone through the floor twice. At 3:39 Engine 14 reported they were backing out as the floor was sagging. At 3:48 the I/C reported they still had heavy flames from the roof. I fell asleep again as they were still working. I was very impressed with their incident command procedures at this fire. Communications were very well done.

Thank goodness Karyle felt much better this morning. We walked over for the brunch provided at the Residence Inn. It was very good- more than you could ask for. We stopped at the Clark County Fire Department headquarters to see if there was anyway to get permission to visit the fire stations here. There were a lot of people in the office that thought it would be no problem, but when it came down to the Assistance Chief he said that there would be no exceptions- no one would be allowed in Clark County Stations!

We drove down the strip for a short time and Karyle felt she was still too weak to continue. I dropped her off at our unit and told her I'd be back in mid-afternoon to pick her up. I headed to Las Vegas Station 10. I was greeted there with open arms. It was "What can we do for you. Do you want the rigs pulled out? No problem." I got photos of Engine 10 and Medic 10 and new Station 10 (opened in last year or so). At present there is also an Engine 210 and Medic 210 as Station 5 was torn down and both Engine 5 and Medic 5 were moved to 10's. They are rebuilding Station 5 on the same sight. I also took a crew digital photo for Engine 10's crew that I am E-mailing them tonight. The crew there was great- they even invited me in for coffee.

I headed to Station 1 to see one of the new Pierce Quantum tractor-trailer aerials. Ladder 1 was out when I got there. I introduced myself to a sharp young paramedic that had just returned from a run (one of 8000 they take each year). He showed me around and arranged for the Engineer to pull out Engine 1's new Quantum with a 50-foot Snozzle. Ladder 1 came back and he stopped them so I could get a photo as they were pulling in the back. I was most impressed by the young paramedic, who was very friendly, knowledgeable and most helpful.

My next stop was Station 3, home of the departments Haz Mat team. I was greeted there by another very friendly crew and was asked if I wanted the rigs pulled out. I told them that I'd love to get the Haz Mat and ladder truck. They pulled them both out and I got photos. They asked me if I wanted a sandwich as they were just going to sit down to have lunch. I declined, but thanked them for the offer.

One of the sharp firefighters who assisted me said that the bond issue that was passed a couple years ago that bought them an all-new fleet, also provides them with all new turnout gear every two years and the latest and greatest in SCBA gear that shows a graphic on the helmet face-peace with the temperature and amount of air time left. It also includes replacement of apparatus every seven years for first line equipment.

I headed to Station 4 where again, I was asked by the if I wanted the rigs pulled out. The Las Vegas firefighters are so helpful and accommodating- very good PR. I got a photo of their Quantum tower ladder and Quantum engine. It was now noon, so I headed out towards some new Clark County Stations on the northeast end of the area. I got station photos of new Stations 27 and 31 and Stations 20 and 23.

I started heading back to the unit and drove by North Las Vegas new Station 52- it was moved a couple miles north of the old station . Engine 52 was out front and I got a nice photo. I went by NLVFD Station 51 and the rigs were out.

Las Vegas Station 8 (and the departments training facilities) were on the way back. I stopped there when I saw a bunch of rigs parked out back. Engine 201, Engine 45, Engine 44, Rescue 44 and Engine 4 were all parked out back, I got photos of all but Engine 4 (photographed earlier).

I stopped at the unit and Karyle felt up to going out again. We headed down the strip, taking our time. Karyle wanted to stop at the Belz Factory Outlet Mall, just south of the airport. We drove by Clark County Station 24 before going to the mall. We did a little looking around, but Karyle could not find what she was interested in.

We took a slow cruise back up the strip. It was getting to near 5:00, so we headed back to the unit. This evening they had "Bar-B-Q Night" at the Residence Inn. They had free burgers, brats, potato salad, baked beans, chips, pop, coffee, and tap beer. There was a good turnout of guests. We ate outdoors as it was still just gorgeous, 67 and sunny at dinner hour.

We relaxed in the unit for about half an hour and watched the time count down for the showdown in Iraq. I certainly pray that there will be no need to be a full scale attack of the entire country of Iraq. It was interesting to see the 30 inches of snow that had fallen in Denver, Colorado and 50 inches elsewhere in the state. Glad we're here!

We went out for a drive on the strip to see all the lights and activity. I took a number of digital photos and Karyle took video. It was funny when we stopped at an intersection for a soplight. I saw that the car next to Karyle had the same kind of video recorder that Karyle was using. I said to Karyle, "Look at that car next to us." At the same time I said that, the guy in the car with the video recorder pointed it at Karyle and said "I got you first" as they taped each other filming. Karyle and I laughed and their carload laughed as we pulled away for the green light.

We drove downtown and they had a band playing at one of the intersections on Fremont Street, but we were a half hour away from the light show. We decided to head back to the unit as we were both pretty done in. It got up to 70 here today and the winds from yesterday died down early. It was a very pleasant and enjoyable day. Karyle feels pretty good after eating two meals today. She aid she feels a lot stronger tonight.

That's all for today. Take care.

Your roving reporter

Day 13 - In Las Vegas area

Thursday, March 20, 2003

I didn't hear any overnight action on the trunktracker here. During part of the day I was not in touch as we were out touring homes- so I could have missed something.

We left this morning after enjoying breakfast courtesy of the Residence Inn. We headed southeast to the Henderson area and Del Webb's Town of Anthem (a senior citizen retirement community). We had visited Anthem two years ago and really enjoyed touring the model homes there.

We headed down the I-515 towards Henderson. We got off near Henderson Station 82, which is also the training facility. When we pulled up I saw two engines parked out back. They were both lettered for Engine 9. Two years ago, Henderson had Stations 91 through 96. Today, those same stations a numbered in the 80's (81 through 89 today) as they will be going into the 90 series next.

I found out that when older engines became reserves, they took the second letter off. So now, all reserve engines in Henderson are Engine 9. Engine 92 was just leaving quarters so I got a quick photo of them using another reserve. I ran into the training chief and he told me the department was doing a house burn today. He told me how to get there and that I could get many rig photos there also.

We headed back down the I-515 and got off near the house burn. It seemed like we were at the corner of the world. There were mountains (with no roads going through them- that you could see anyways) and there were few homes. It almost looked like the end of the civilized world. I found the burn from the chief's directions and was able to get photos of a number of Henderson's other rigs. We went by Station 81 as we left.

We tried to find the Town of Anthem from where we were and got lost. I mean, we barely knew what direction we were going. One of the problems is that the map I have of the area splits the City of Henderson into two maps on two different sides of the map. It is really hard to figure out how they fit together. The writing on the maps is so small we both have to use a magnifying glass to read the street names. We were trying to get from one map to the other and not finding streets with like names. It was interesting to say the least.

We finally ended up back where we had been (at Station 82) totally by accident. We got back on the I-515 and looked for I-215, which should take us near Anthem. It turns out that I-215 does not meet I-515. There are a couple miles of regular streets in between. We finally arrived at the 215 and got off on Eastern (where we were told we could NOT miss the Town of Anthem.

Sure enough, we found Anthem. We went to the model homes center, which is a gorgeous building with a huge rounded glassed lobby area with awesome views of the valley below- including the "strip." We were assigned a sales person to acquaint us with the home tour. The old homes (built by Del Webb) are no longer available. Puente bought out Del Webb last year and they built a new set of model homes there with Puente's designs.

We were given a packet of information, including home layout designs, prices, square footage and other information. We went off on the tour by ourselves. We went through at least ten model homes. I took video of most of the homes, until my battery ran out. Karyle is actually thinking about buying a home here as an investment. Nothing for sure, but thinking.

We had a great time looking at the various layouts and sizes. We were, however, disappointed because we thought the Del Webb designs were much more interesting and better designed. When we returned to the model home center we told the salesperson that we were disappointed with the new designs. We both felt that even the cheapest and smallest Del Webb design was better than any of the new ones we toured today. The salesperson said that they have heard that a lot from people that had been there before.

Just as we were leaving, I noticed a sign on the desk next door which read "Sue Rosland." I remember that a Sue Rosland had worked at Hiawatha Golf Course back in the 70's. I went back to the salesperson we had dealt with and asked if she knew if this Sue Rosland had come from Minnesota. She said that she believed so. The salesperson then paged Sue and sure enough- it WAS Sue Rosland that worked at Hiawatha Golf.

We had the nicest visit for most of an hour. Sue had to leave the Twin Cities in the mid-seventies because of health reasons (pneumonia 12 times). Her doctor told her she had to move to a drier climate. She ended up in Las Vegas. Sue has been selling for Del Webb for a number of years- selling over $105 million dollar's worth of homes. She loves it out here, but misses Minnesota (except for her health). It was fun reminiscing about the old days when she worked at HGC. She asked about many golfers she had known before she left.

We headed back towards town, stopping for a brief snack to hold us over until dinner- it's "Meatball Sandwich Night" at the Residence Inn tonight. We stopped at Clark County Station 19 (adjacent to McCarran Field- LAS) as the rig was out on the street. I met a couple very interesting firefighters who actually invited me to stop in at the station. As I didn't want to be arrested on the spot (ha, ha) I declined. I actually already had the photos I wanted, so we moved on.

We ended up back at the unit around 4:00, just as a few darker clouds started rolling in. I am doing this report before dinner as we plan on going out again tonight. It was an absolutely gorgeous day here again today. I think it reached 68 and it was very clear- with no wind.

That's all for today. Tomorrow we move on. Karyle flies out late tomorrow night and I'll move to a motel closer to Henderson for the night. Saturday morning I head to Phoenix.

Your roving reporter

Day 14 - In Las Vegas area

Friday, March 21, 2003

It was another absolutely gorgeous evening last night. We went down to see the Fremont Street Light Show in downtown Las Vegas. The show was pretty good. There were also a few groups performing before and after the show. They were loud! We also visited a number of souvenir shops along Fremont Street.

When we got a $30.00 parking ticket for parking in a tour bus zone. There were many other cars parked at the meters and the meter read, "Enforced 6am to 6pm." To me that means it's free after 6:00pm. What we and all the other cars didn't see, was a sign at the end of the block that read "tour bus parking only 6pm to 6am." What a scam!

When we got up this morning it was just beautiful. The sun was shining and it was in the mid 60s as we ate breakfast outdoors by the pool. After breakfast we headed to the Bellagio Hotel on the strip. I drove by Clark County Headquarters on the way and got some shots of CCFD Ladder 17.

We parked in the ramp at the Bellagio, but not before our vehicle was inspected by two guards on the ramp coming in. They even asked to look into the trunk. It actually made us feel a little safer as the Bellagio would probably be one of the terrorists main places to attack here in Las Vegas. We walked through the gorgeous flowers in the Bellagio Conservatory and then walked all the way through the Bellagio to Ceasar's Palace.

On the way back, I took a wrong turn and we ended up out back of the Bellagio by the pools and meeting rooms. We got some nice photos of the pool area. Neither one of us had seen it before. We each gambled as we walked through the gaming areas. Karyle lost a nickel on a nickel slot and I lost a buck on a $1 slot. We're losers!

We decided to head up to the ticket place and take care of paying our $30 fine in person. I also let the women know what I thought was an out and out scam. Why not place the "Tour buses only after 6pm" on the meters like the hours they are in effect? We made sure we put enough coins in the meter when we parked to pay the ticket (and we didn't see any "Tour Bus Only" signs nearby either.

We headed out west and north to visit the three new Las Vegas Stations that have opened in those areas in the last three months. We drove by LV Station 6 on the way to see their rear-mount Quantum. Just as we pulled up to the station, Engine 6 and Medic 6 pulled out on a medical run. We followed them (at a distance) and got to where the call was and I got a rig photo of the engine. When we returned to Station 6 I got photos of Ladder 6 also. The firefighters there were very kind and helpful, as has been the case at every Las Vegas Station I have visited.

Our next stop was new Station 44 at 7701 W Washington Avenue. Engine 44 and the Heavy Rescue are stationed there. The Heavy Rescue responds on all working fires in the city, all heavy rescue calls, and also fire calls in the west end of the city. The station was identical in design to Station 10. The medic units run out of one side of the station and from 10pm until 6am the medics (who have separate living quarters from the other crews) are notified by phone when they get a run. The other crews have no idea if the medic has had a run or not.

We drove through a Del Webb community as we drove to the next station. They have some beautiful golf courses intertwined in their senior citizen communities. I got some very nice photos of the Palm Valley Golf Course as we drove through the "golf carts permitted" community.

Station 45 was the next new station on our itinerary. Station 45 has Engine 45 and Engine 47 (which runs as Engine 245 until their station opens). Their new quarters at 3821 N Fort Apache opened only three weeks ago.

Station 43 was the other new LV Station just opened. It is located at 6420 Smoke Ranch Road and has Engine 43 and Engine 46 (running as Engine 243 until station 46 opens). I met a sharp rookie firefighter who showed me around and explained a number of things I wasn't aware of. Every engine in the city is equipped with Amkus Rescue Tools (similar to Hurst). The department has gone to Dual Pressure nozzles (I believe they are Task Force Tip nozzles) for greater water volume. I'm not sure if I mention this earlier, but every engine has one paramedic on duty. The engines take all the urgent care first responder calls and the ladders take the non-emergency and assistance type calls.

We headed back towards our unit and stopped for a late lunch on the way. We fueled the car and I got the oil changed for the trip home. Since we have returned to the unit I have been watching the Weather Channel to try and figure out the route I'll follow for the return trip. It looks right now like a lot of rain Monday and Tuesday in the Dallas-Fort Worth area (during the time that I had planned to be there). So it looks like that part of the trip is out.

I take Karyle to the airport tonight around 11:00pm for her return flight. Tomorrow morning, I will head south from here to I-40 and then I'm not sure to where from there. I may have to cut my trip short and make a "bee line" towards home to miss some bad weather. I may very well end up in Albuquerque tomorrow night.

That's all for now. Karyle and I both hate to leave the great weather here. It got up to 75 here today and there was hardly a cloud in the sky all day.

Take care,

Your roving reporter

Day 15 - Las Vegas to Albuquerque

Saturday, March 22, 2003

Last night I took Karyle to the airport at around 11:00pm for her 1:10am flight home to Minneapolis. I spent the night alone at the Residence Inn. We really enjoyed our stay there. It was very quiet and peaceful. The only problem I had with the place is that there is something in their phone system that kept knocking me off the internet. When I sent the daily reports, I often had to try sending them three or more times before they would go. At 50 cents a call it added up. I reported the problem to the manager (more than once) and he said they'd check it out. I never heard anything after that.

It was very busy on the fire radio last night when I went to bed. It was a lot busier than any of the other nights we were in the Vegas area. I fell off fairly quickly and wasn't aware of any fires. I forgot to tell about the Clark County fire I heard yesterday. While we were visiting LVFD Stations, Clark County had a good mobile home fire south of the airport (I didn't get the address as Las Vegas was talking at the same time). The companies reported seeing the smoke for miles. It sounded like it also involved a vehicle.

After watching the weather channel last night, I decided it would be in my best interest to head for home rather then go to Phoenix, El Paso and the Dallas-Fort Worth area. There are a number of storms coming which will affect the route I take home. I left Las Vegas this morning around 7:00am. To be safe and be able to get back to work on time, I headed south from Las Vegas on Highway 93 today to catch I-40 and then head east on I-40. I intended on ending up in Albuquerque for the night.

I didn't get into Albuquerque until 5:00pm (lost an hour for time change along the route), so I don't have any fire-related photos for today. I do have some interesting photos from the Hoover Dam area and scenery along I-40. The weather was great today- almost no clouds and temperatures in the low 60s along the route. When I arrived in Albuquerque it was 65. It is supposed to get cool here tonight.

I am monitoring the high band frequencies here in hopes that they might do some simulcasting on one of the old Albuquerque FD frequencies. I have heard a few transmissions to "fire control", but no fire calls or other incidents.

Tomorrow I hope to get to at least Oklahoma City, if not Wichita for the night. My window of opportunity to miss the storms looks like it ends Tuesday. And it looks like it will get even nastier later on in the week. It's hard to take photos in rain storms- and not very enjoyable either. I've had super weather every day (other than the day Karyle flew in during the big rain in LA) and have really enjoyed myself.

Karyle called today to say she got home fine and she and a friend are up in Duluth tonight for a women's hockey tournament. I hope she had some time to sleep!

That's all for today. Maybe I'll have a little chance to do some buffing tomorrow.

Your roving reporter

Day 16 - Albuquerque to Oklahoma City

Sunday, March 23, 2003

It was 38 degrees when I left Albuquerque this morning. It didn't feel that cold- more like 55 to me. I headed east on I-40 and within an hour the temperature outside was 60 degrees. By the time I got to Amarillo, Texas around noon, it was 75. It started getting windy from Amarillo on. Not a cloud in the sky again today, until I got about half way between Amarillo and OK City.

I didn't hear much on the fire radio last night. Either it was totally dead in Albuquerque or they are NOT simulcasting on any of their former high-band frequencies. I was surprised I heard not a word out of Amarillo as I past through there. On the way out they were talking like a bunch of old ladies. It was a fairly boring drive today- very flat and not much scenery along the way. The only excitement was the highway construction for good parts of 120 miles (nobody working, but down to one lane for construction).

As soon as I got about 35 miles outside of Oklahoma City I started hearing the OCFD on the radio. It's hard to miss the Oklahoma FD dispatch tones- they are loud and piercing. It was 76 when I arrived in Oklahoma City. I stopped by OCFD Station 31 on the way into town. They have an engine and a rescue-ladder (ladder truck). A firefighter there told me that after they disbanded a bunch of the rescue companies here and moved some of the equipment that used to be carried on the rescues to the ladder trucks, they changed the name of the ladders to "Rescue Ladders."

The department currently has 16 of the 35 or so engines here with at least one paramedic on duty at all times. Engine 31 had two on duty today. The plan is to have a paramedic on every engine company. Station 31 is the second closest station to the Red Roof Inn I'm staying at.

I also stopped at OCFD Station 24 (just a mile or so north of the motel). The Engine was in and I got a photo of it. It is one of two that was built by Becker and has a really long wheelbase. I checked into the motel around 5:15 as the sun was getting pretty low. I would have liked to visit more stations here, but maybe next time.

The weather looks great for the drive home tomorrow. I plan to leave early so that I may have some time to stop in Kansas City briefly. It is a grueling 12-hour drive, but it is always good to be almost home again. I wish the weather would have cooperated better at the end of the trip, but I sure lucked out for the two plus weeks I was gone

Oklahoma City just put out a call for reported smoke from the windows of an apartment building at 823 W California. Assigned were Engines 1-51-4-8, Rescue-Ladders 1-6, Rescue 8 and Battalion 601. It sounded good when they gave it out, but it turned out to be a false alarm.

I'll be watching the Academy Awards on TV here tonight. It seems strange to just have been at the site of the awards last Monday when they had all the stands and red carpet set up. That has all gone out the window because of the war. I could not believe all the security they had on duty at the Kodak Theater six days before the event. I can't imagine what the security must be like tonight.

That's all for today. It looks like it will be a fairly warm drive all the way up to the Twin Cities. I couldn't believe it was 71 in Minneapolis today when I checked the weather channel. It sounds like we may open the driving range Monday and the golf course in a few days. Save some of that warm weather for me!

Your roving reporter

Day 17 - Oklahoma City to Minneapolis

Monday, March 26, 2003

When I left Oklahoma City around 6:30am it was already 57 degrees. I headed north towards home on I-35 after driving though the city on I-40 and I-44, bypassing the downtown area. The sun was just coming up on the eastern horizon. I wish I had time to get a photo of downtown Oklahoma City with the red sun rise behind it, but I was on the freeway and the opportunity was in short duration.

I didn't hear any overnight fires in Oklahoma City, but I was out like a light and didn't hear a word on the radio until I woke up. I slept so soundly I could have slept through a 4th Alarm, for all I know.

As I was driving through Wichita I heard a couple WFD announcements about a street closing, but no fire or medical alarms. When I reached Kansas City the temperature was a very pleasant 75 degrees. I heard a couple runs dispatched by the KCMO Fire Department, one an out and one an alarm check. It was very quiet for KCMO.

I got my final tank full of gas in Kearny, just north of Kansas City (the same city I had stopped in to gas upon the way down). I paid $1.519 per gallon, quite a difference from the $2.079 I paid while in Los Angeles. I no sooner got back in the car and KCMO dispatched a report of a dwelling fire in the 3700 block of Chestnut Avenue. That was the same street (but two blocks south) that I had caught the two-alarm dwelling fire on while passing through fifteen days earlier. I thought, "Here we go again!" Dispatched were Pumpers 18-17, Ladders 5-3, Rescue 11 and Battalion 102.

Pumper 18 arrived on the scene and reported they could handle and the rest of the assignment was cancelled. I lost radio contact a short time later. When I hit the Iowa, the sky became overcast and it started cooling off a bit. When I hit Des Moines, it was 67 degrees and threatening rain. I only heard a couple of DFD runs- a medical run and a check an alarm call.

When I got in the Ames, Iowa area it started sprinkling a couple of times, but didn't last long. I reached the Minnesota border and the sun popped through the clouds. I was amazed how much ice was on Albert Lea Lake. I figured with all the warm weather we had while I was gone that the ice would have melted by now. I was wrong.

I finally arrived in Minneapolis just after 6:00pm. It was a hard day's drive and I had only stopped very briefly for rest stops. I got to the golf course before they closed. They had opened the driving range earlier in the day, but didn't expect to open the course until later in the week.

While my trip was cut short by about five days, I really enjoyed the 17 days I was on vacation. The weather, other than the all-day rain in LA City, had been almost perfect. I had seen some gorgeous countryside along the way, and in some areas I had not visited before. I visited a goodly number of fire stations along the route and was treated exceptionally well by the most dedicated and heroic group of servants that 24/7 answer our daily calls for assistance- our firefighters.

I got the sad news on the return trip that the City of Minneapolis was forced to lay off 55 firefighters because of the reduction in federal aid monies. I think that is a huge mistake. I think that is also a slap in the face, not only to the multitude of heroes that gave their lives on 9/11/01 in New York City, but to all the firefighters that respond to our beckoned call 24/7- 365 days a year.

What ever happened to the additional resources the federal government talked about for firefighters following 9/11. Apparently the federal government has a very short memory as it apparently has quickly forgotten our every-day heroes. That is a shame!

Today, I am sending along some scenery photos that I took along the journey through the most wonderful country in the world. I pray for our heroes abroad that are trying to free another part of the world from a dictatorship that denied its people the same freedoms that we take for granted here on a daily basis. I pray that casualties on both sides are minimal. I also pray that once this war on terrorism is over, we can all, worldwide, live in peace!

Thank you for traveling along.

Your roving reporter