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September 15, 2007
2007 Gala Well Received by the Community
People from all over Los Angeles joined together this past Friday to celebrate the ongoing development of the Los Angeles Fire Department Fallen Firefighter Memorial. The Greater Alarm Gala was hosted by the Los Angeles Fire Department, the LAFD Historical Society, and a select committee of LAFD supporters.
The evening began with a silent auction display, including signed firefighter helmets, firefighting memorabilia, art, music, travel certificates and much more. Several items were of specific interest, including a firefighting helmet signed by astronaut Buzz Aldrin, who attended the event and posed for photos. Aldrin, who along with Neil Armstrong made history by being the first two humans to walk on the moon on July 20, 1969, was just the first surprise for an event-filled evening.
Active firefighters prepared a BBQ-style array of food. Grilled Salmon, Firehouse Flank Steak, Veggie-Pasta and other dishes were well received by the more than 450 people in attendance. A desert bar tempted people to return for more, not to mention wonderful coffee and after-dinner drinks.
The event hosts, Jeff Loeb, Thaddeus Hunter-Smith, and Brian Sayers were terrific. Mayor Villaraigosa spoke about the department and his pride for its members, the Fire Chief was very warm with his comments regarding the importance of a memorial and museum. Councilperson Tom LaBonge shared some of his remarkable historical knowledge of Hollywood, and everyone involved presented themselves perfectly.
Karla Ross and Nick Palance provided some wonderful musical entertainment. R|com Creative added some moving video and still images of the LAFD in action.
Presentations were made to LAFD HS contributors Jeffrey Neu, William Rolland, and Bernard Subkoski. Special plaques were given to family members representing fallen firefighters Michael Carter and James Hassan. And special presentations were made honoring Jeffrey Neu of Sims Metal, David Judaken, owner of Mood and Garden of Eden, plus Chris Bonbright, Frank Buckley, John Tronson, and Steven Tronson of Ramsey-Shilling.
The evening concluded with a fun live auction hosted by Steve Vallentine of Crossing Jordan fame. Vallentine was terrific, adding humor and following the audience to get the most out of the charity-based auction.
Posted by dbarrett at September 15, 2007 06:54 PM