Summer 2008 - Burn Institute

Prevention
Burn Support
Events
Volunteers
3
6
8
10
Summer Safety Tips
h t t p : / / w w w. b u r n i n s t i t u t e . o r g
Mentorship Program
Past and Present Heroes
Fred’s True Spirit
VOLUME 42, NUMBER 2 SUMMER 2008
Viejas Division Chief, Bob Pfohl (left) hoists a 42-lb. roll of fire hose up four stories during a practice session for
this year’s Viejas Firefighter Combat Challenge, while Viejas firefighter Tony Cascarano (right) shouts words of
encouragement. The Challenge will feature a grueling five-part relay, billed as “the toughest two minutes in sports.”
Hot Fun in the Summertime:
Viejas FIRE EXPO/Firefighter Combat Challenge!
T
ake a typical Southern California day – add about
100 fire trucks, lots of sunshine, water hoses,
grilled hot dogs, healthy competition and some
live music – and you’ve got the hottest family event of
the summer!
On Saturday, July 19, join the Burn Institute and
thousands of our closest friends at QUALCOMM
Stadium for the 18th Annual Viejas FIRE EXPO/
Firefighter Combat Challenge Presented by Toyota and
FIRE-ETC. Billed as California’s Largest Firefighting
Event, admission to this fun, family-friendly experience
is FREE!
The festivities kick-off at 11 a.m. with opening
ceremonies. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., things will
really heat up as firefighters from all over the United
States compete in the Southern California regional
competition of the National Firefighter Combat
Challenge. Then prepare to be dazzled with the arrival
of the Burn Run Parade! Complete with blinking
lights and sirens blaring, the spectacle of nearly 100
fire trucks and engines roaring into the stadium’s
lot is a perennial hit for young and old alike. From
start to finish, the day will be fun-filled for everyone!
Throughout the day and until 5 p.m., enjoy free
giveaways, take the children to the Kiddie Karnival,
visit informative fire safety booths, get an up-close
view of fire apparatus, munch on delicious food and
enjoy live entertainment at your leisure. It’s all here!
This is the second year that the FIRE EXPO will be
held in conjunction with the Southern California
(continued on Page 2)
NONPROFIT ORG.
US POSTAGE
PAID
8825 Aero Drive #200, San Diego, CA 92123
SAN DIEGO, CA
PERMIT NO. 1352
RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED
B UR N INS TITUTE B EA C O N
2
BEACON
New FIRE EXPO T- Shirts On Sale Now!
(continued from Page 1)
regional competition of the National Firefighter
Combat Challenge. This exciting addition is a
competition held in several cities each year, attracting
hundreds of U.S. and Canadian firefighters. During the
“Challenge” fire department teams compete to prove
they are the fittest in their profession. For the duration
of the event, competitors must wear full bunker gear
and breathing apparatus, which together can weigh up
to 50 pounds. The relay includes a series of five linked
tasks designed to “simulate the physical demands of
real-life firefighting,” and are performed by pairs of
competitors in a head-to-head race against the clock.
Tasks include climbing a 5-story tower, hoisting,
chopping, dragging hoses and “rescuing” a life-sized,
175 lb. mannequin, dragging it 100 feet to safety.
Former marathon runner, Viejas Division Chief Bob
Pfohl, is no stranger to grueling athletic competition.
Pfohl has participated in the Challenge since 1993,
when he placed second in the National Firefighter
Combat Challenge. At 52, he continues to be an
enthusiastic participant, bent on achieving his personal
best year after year.
“They call it ‘the toughest two minutes in sports’
and it’s true,” said Pfohl, comparing the competition
to his years of running marathons and competing in
triathlons. “This is tougher in a different way. You have
to mentally push yourself when you don’t want to push
yourself. You have to go all out,” he said, adding. “It’s
painful. I think you’ve got to have a real desire to do it.”
Pacing is not an option in the Challenge because unlike
distance running, split-second timing becomes crucial.
In addition, participants are penalized for missing the
mark or improperly carrying out a task, paying for
mistakes with five seconds tacked onto their final time,
for example.
“Sometimes the difference between first and third place
is a tenth of a second,” said Pfohl. “In the weeks prior
you wonder whether you’re training enough . . . It’s very
nerve-wracking. The top guys make it look easy – but it’s
tough for everybody.”
Dear Friends:
Greetings!
May was quite a month for the Burn Institute!
First, I was fortunate enough to receive the American
Burn Association Burn Prevention Award in
Chicago – and the Burn Institute was center stage
nationally. Then, just a few weeks later, I was the
recipient of the San Diego County Fire Chiefs’
Association Maltese Award – an equally great honor.
But these awards are really not about me. Rather,
they are a microcosm of a much bigger picture – a
community dedicated to a common cause. Both of
these awards represent the hard work and dedication of
a lot of people – Burn Institute staff, volunteers, board
members, and our close, close partners in the fire
service.
None of what we do as an
agency would be possible
without this dedicated team.
I’m just the guy driving the bus.
You don’t need to look much further than the month
of May for an example of how this community team
performs. In a 12-day span in May, the Institute
conducted three major special events – the Firefighter
Boot Drive ($216,000 raised); Firefighter Night at the
Commemorative Viejas FIRE EXPO/
Firefighter Combat Challenge T-shirts
are now available! The shirts are $15
each, are available in sizes sm-XXL,
in black, white and military green.
To purchase, call Reyna Doerr at Burn Institute 858.541.2277, Ext.
23, or visit our T-shirt booth at the FIRE EXPO on July 19.
Pfohl began competing in the event as new Chief of the
Santee Fire Department, because it got him out of the
office and gave him an opportunity to keep active. Now
that he’s hooked, he looks forward to the competition
each year, pointing to the camaraderie that comes with
friendly competition between firefighters from all
over the U.S. Last year was the first time the Challenge
was held in San Diego, and about 150 firefighters
are expected to return for this year’s competition at
QUALCOMM Stadium. The World Championship
competition will be held in Las Vegas the week of Nov
11, 2008.
“Ultimately, this is to benefit the Burn Institute,” said
Pfohl, who is also a member of the Board of Directors.
He then offered a challenge to his comrades in the fire
service: “If you’re in shape and you’re a firefighter, you
can go out and do it!”
The Viejas FIRE EXPO/Firefighter Combat Challenge
is designed to educate the public about fire safety and
heighten awareness of modern emergency services.
Proceeds from this event help fund the Burn Institute’s
fire/burn prevention programs and burn survivor
support services including Camp Beyond the Scars.
For more information about this event, visit
www.burninstitute.org. For more information
about the Firefighter Combat Challenge,
visit www.firefighterchallenge.com.
Padres and our 35th Anniversary Spirit of Courage
Awards Banquet – all of which were tremendous
successes. This doesn’t include, of course, all the
fire and burn prevention programs that we conduct
on a daily basis, the numerous juvenile firesetter
interventions performed, hundreds of smoke alarm
installs, and continual interaction with talented
professionals at the UCSD Regional Burn Center who
we work with to support burn survivors in need. Oh
yeah, and Summer Camp is just around the corner!
May was a busy month … but you know, every month
is busy at the Burn Institute! And we’re busy and
successful because of people like you, our community
partners – this really is your Burn Institute!
On behalf of those we serve, thank you for making our
important work possible!
Stay Safe!
The Burn Institute is the local
nonprofit agency dedicated to
reducing the number of burn
injuries and deaths in San Diego,
Imperial, Riverside and San
Bernardino counties through fire
and burn prevention education,
burn care research and treatment,
and burn survivor support services.
Board of Directors
Gerald S. Davee, Esq.
Chairman of the Board
Jim Hansen
President
Chief Bob Pfohl
Vice President Chief Financial Officer
Allan W. Arendsee
Vice President Development
Michael Pierschbacher, Ph.D.
Vice President Program
Dolores Juditz
Secretary
Jeff Berend
Jim Boland
Charlie Brown
Chief Dave Burk
Captain Angelo Cappos
Chief Kevin Crawford
Paul Dawson
Theodore S. Drcar, Esq.
Dale Ganzow
Chief Augie Ghio
Ron Houston
Victor Jaime, Ph.D.
Chief Tracy Jarman
R. Anthony Mahavier, Esq.
Susan McClellan
Chief Kenneth J. Miller (ret.)
Chief Dave Ott
Bruce Potenza, M.D.
Chief Mitch Villalpando
Eddie Villavicencio
Chief David Waltemeyer
Chief Erwin Willis (ret.)
Best regards,
Please remember the Burn Institute in your annual
United Way/CHAD & CFC Campaigns.
James A. Floros
Executive Director/
Chief Executive Officer
P.S. One last note – Summer is upon us – and I wouldn’t
be doing my job if I didn’t once again remind you about
using your common sense and avoiding summer fire and
burn hazards!
DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE
F&T
Member Agency of Combined Health Agencies
(San Diego County #95581)
United Way (Imperial County)
Combined Federal Campaign (San Diego #50359)
(Imperial County #7024)
Fire and Burn Prevention Facts & Tips
Fact Each year, more than 10,000 Americans (half of them children), are treated in emergency rooms for fireworks-related injuries.
Tip NEVER play with fireworks. They are illegal and dangerous.
SUMMER 2008
BURN INST IT UT E BE ACON
PREVENTION
3
Viejas FIRE EXPO / Firefighter Combat Challenge Highlights
11am-5pm FIRE EXPO
Fire Engine Rides
Children’s Firefighter Obstacle Course
ire and Burn Prevention and Community
F
Education Pavilion
Kiddie Karnival
Fire Safety Trailers
mergency Service and Family Oriented
E
Vendor Booths
2 Live Bands
BURN RUN ARRIVAL CEREMONIES
rocession of nearly 100 fire trucks and engines
P
and a CHP escort arrive at FIRE EXPO Code 3 – Full Lights and Sirens – into the parking lot of
QUALCOMM Stadium at 2 pm.
2-5pm LIVE DEMONSTRATIONS
ive Firefighting and Emergency Service
L
Demonstrations
Emergency Vehicle Tours
Helicopter Flyovers
Food and Beverage Stands Face Painters
Summer Safety Tips
Sun Safety
Barbecues
hen going outdoors, always wear sunscreen with a
W
minimum SPF 25 and follow the directions for
re-application. Serious sunburns can occur even when
it is cloudy or overcast.
eep hot grills at least 10 feet
K
from your house.
ear sunglasses that provide UV protection and wear a
W
broad-rimmed hat to protect your head and neck.
ispose of hot coals in proper
D
receptacles – buried coals retain heat for up to 24
hours and may cause a serious burn injury to an
unsuspecting passerby who steps in them.
Fireworks
Fireworks ARE DANGEROUS.
eep children and pets away
K
from hot grills.
Campfires
ireworks ARE ILLEGAL in
F
San Diego County and Imperial Valley.
lways use a designated fire pit when building
A
a campfire.
parklers heat up to 1,800 degrees
S
and ARE ILLEGAL and DANGEROUS.
Never leave a campfire unattended.
EVER play with fireworks. Leave fireworks to the
N
experts and only watch licensed fireworks shows.
Always supervise children around campfires.
efore leaving your campsite, make sure the fire is
B
properly extinguished – douse and stir the fire
with water.
An Appeal to Fire Chiefs
Now, what does this mean to the BI? It means
opportunity for the new Association Board of Directors
to take our partnership with the BI to a new level.
That level will include developing a strategic approach
to supporting the projects and programs that we
have historically provided our personnel, time and
energy toward.
Part of this strategy will include a stronger outreach
to those fire chiefs and other chief officers who have
CHICAGO - April 30, 2008 was a big day for Burn
Institute Executive Director/CEO, James Floros. Not
only was he to receive a national honor – the highlycoveted Burn Prevention Award from the American
Burn Association – but he would be delivering
his acceptance speech to some 4,000 peers and
colleagues, not to mention his wife and mother who
had flown all the way from San Diego to help him
celebrate the honor.
The award was presented by ABA President Dr.
Richard J. Kagan, MD, FACS, at the American Burn
Association’s 40th Annual Meeting held in Chicago.
Floros was recognized for outstanding contribution
in the field of burn prevention over his 16-year career
at the Burn Institute.
Open Letter
On June 6, 2008, Jim Floros, the Director of the Burn
Institute (BI), served as the Induction Officer at our 21st
Annual Installation Banquet for the San Diego County
Fire Chiefs’ Association (the Association). Beginning
July 1st, your new SDCFCA Board of Directors is
Chief Augie Ghio President; Chief Tracy Jarman, Vice
President; Chief Rod Juniel, Treasurer; Chief Gary
Fisher, Secretary, and Chief Dave Burk, Past President.
Floros Accepts
National Award
not recently been active with the organization. We
will take to them the gift of involvement and sharing
of their skills with the BI. We all know that the
return on the investment of giving is a huge sense of
personal satisfaction.
One of our initial objectives related to the BI, is to host
a meeting with Jim and his staff and review where we
have been in regard to its various projects and programs
historically; discuss what may be done to improve our
support and participation, and finally, map out an
actionable plan to meet our objectives.
While touched by the recognition, Floros
understands the bigger picture. “To be honored
by your peers to have done something well is the
ultimate compliment. But this award is really
about an entire community committed to ending
preventable burn injuries – this award is about all of
us,” he said.
Reflecting back, Floros thought his speech went well,
adding with a smile, “I even got some laughs!”
Our Burn Institute is a model that has stood the test
of time in setting a national standard of excellence in
program and service provisions throughout our region.
This has been done through the support and efforts of
hundreds of firefighters county-wide. Now it is time for
we, as fire chiefs, to rededicate ourselves to the BI, just
(continued on page 7)
$50 will provide five senior citizens
with lifesaving smoke detectors.
PREVENTION
$50
BURN INST IT UT E BE ACON
4
GIFTS & TRIBUTES
Donors
The Burn Institute is grateful to the following
individuals, corporations, foundations and
community groups for their generous gifts.
Listed below are donations of $250+ made from
February 23, 2008 to May 16, 2008.
Mr. Michael E. Anderson & Ms. Cheryl Anderson
Ms. Dina Anguiano
Ashland Inc. Corp. Headquarters
Mr. & Mrs. Jeff Berend
Ms. Maria E. Blair
Mr. & Mrs. James J. Boland
Bonita Sunnyside FPD
Ms. Michele Braatz
Ms. Vikki Dee Bradshaw
Bureau of Land Management
Burgers & Beer
CalEnergy Operating Corporation
Carlsbad Firefighters IAFF Local 3730
Mr. Harold Carter
CDF Firefighters Benevolent Foundation
Change a Life Foundation
City of Holtville
City of San Diego Community Services
Coronado Firefighters Association
Mr. Robert Costanzo
Mr. & Mrs. Doug Cox
Mr. & Mrs. Gerald S. Davee
Mr. Paul Dawson
Dr. Seuss Foundation
Mr. & Mrs. Ruben A. Duran
Ms. Bonnie Eggert
El Cajon Fire Fighters PAC
Elsevier
Encinitas Lions Club
Federal Fire El Centro
Federal Signal Corporation
Federal Signal Corporation
Fire Fighters Advisory Council to the Burn Institute
Fieldstone Foundation
Mr. & Mrs. George Fillis
FIRE-ETC
Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company
First Imperial Credit Union
Ms. Betty Kent Floros
Captain Ralph Frame
Gary Jeandron
GRG Management, Inc.
Grossmont Healthcare District
Ms. Breana Harris
Holtville Taco Shop
Imperial Irrigation District
Imperial Valley Board of Realtors
Imperial Valley Dental Group
Imperial Valley Emergency Communications Authority
Imperial Valley Fire Chiefs Association
Ironstone Bank
Mr. & Mrs. Warren H. Johnson
Mrs. Janet K. Johnston
Kaiser Permanente
Check Presentations
Mr. & Mrs. Michael W. Kew
Ms. Mary M. Large
Los Angeles Firemen’s Credit Union
Los Bomberos de San Diego
Lusby Vision Institute
MCAS Yuma Fire Department
Mr. & Mrs. Bradley McCleery
Mr. & Mrs. Craig McClellan
Morgan Stanley
New Car Dealers Association - San Diego County
North Island Financial Credit Union
Mr. Michael Onate
Optimist Club of El Centro
Pacific Nissan
Pacific Western Bank Foundation
PAETEC
Palmer Way Elementary School
Mr. & Mrs. James Payne
Mrs. Bonnie Payne
Chief Robert Pfohl
Pioneers Memorial Healthcare District
Porsche Club of America - San Diego Region
Retired Fire & Police Foundation
Samuel H. French & Katherine Weaver French Fund
San Diego Business Journal
San Diego County Board Of Supervisors
San Diego Firefighters-Local 145
San Diego Laundry Equipment Company
San Diego Transit Maintenance – IBEW Local 145
Santee Firefighters Association
SDG&E / Sempra Energy
Solana Beach Fire Department
Southern California Reservation Fire Authority
St. Helen Philoptochos Society
Ms. Susanne Stanford & Mr. Robert Schroeder
Ms. Robin Stark
Taylor Nelson Sofres Market Development
Temecula Valley Newcomers Club
The Bravo Foundation
The Gold Diggers
The Sundt Foundation
UCSD Medical Center
US Forest Service - Cleveland National Forest
Viejas Enterprises
WD-40 Company
Ms. Helen M. Westfall
Wireless Infrastructure
Memorial/Tribute Gifts
In Memory
Ms. Gretta Upp
In Memory of Steven Brucker
In Honor
Mr. & Mrs. Todd Ullman
In Honor of Chelsea Ullman
Ms. Laura Walcher
In Honor of James Floros and his American Burn Association
Burn Prevention Award
Do You Have an Auto, Boat or RV
That You No Longer Need?
B
Call toll free at 866.244.8464, and remember to
designate the Burn Institute as the beneficiary.
Burn Institute Executive Director/CEO James Floros receives a generous
donation from Air Products Carlsbad plant manager Eileen Turner.
The Cost of Caring
Where
Your Dollars
Go.
SUMMER 2008
as of February 2008
P
resident’s Circle members are individual
donors who support the Burn Institute with an
annual gift of $1,000 or more. This annual gift
can be made in the form of cash, check, credit card or
appreciated stock. You can become a member for only
$83 a month. To learn about all the exciting annual
benefits you will receive as a President’s Circle member
contact Diane Sutherland at 858.541.2277 ext. 19 or
dsutherland@burninstitute.org.
Current Members of the President’s Circle
Mr. & Mrs. Allan W. Arendsee
Mr. & Mrs. R.W. Arendsee
Mr. & Mrs. James G. Batman
Mr. & Mrs. Jeff Berend
Mrs. Samantha Berryessa, Esq. & Mr.
Dax S. Cowart, Esq.
Mr. & Mrs. Gregory Block
Mr. & Mrs. James J. Boland
Mr. Charlie Brown
Mr. & Mrs. Earle Brucker
Mr. & Mrs. Richard Byer
Mr. Robin Callaway
Mr. Vin Ciruzzi
Ms. Velma M. Cooney
Mr. & Mrs. Doug Cox
Chief & Mrs. Kevin Crawford
Division Chief Gary Croucher
Mr. & Mrs. Gerald S. Davee
Mr. & Mrs. Theodore Drcar
Mr. Hugh Dunklee & Ms. Mary Beth
Kellee
Ms. Ann P. Elms
Chief Brian Fennessy
Mr. & Mrs. James A. Floros
Mr. & Mrs. Steve Flynn
Mrs. Helen Fornaca
Captain Ralph Frame
Mr. & Mrs. Scott Free
Battalion Chief Tom Gardner
Chief Jim Geering
Ms. Connie Golden
Mr. & Mrs. J. Allen Graham
Ms. Laury Graves
Ms. Karen Hamilton
Mr. & Mrs. Jim Hansen
Mr. & Mrs. E. Miles Harvey
Chief & Mrs. JJ Hunter III
Mr. Steve Hoffman
Mr. Ron Houston
Mr. Clayton Howe
Mr. & Mrs. Warren H. Johnson
Chief & Mrs. James Hunter
Dr. Victor Jaime
Chief Tracy Jarman
Mr. & Mrs. Warren Johnson
Ms. Dolores Juditz
Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Kellman
Mr. & Mrs. Bruce M. Kerl
Mr. James Kimbrell
Mr. Jason Kimbrell
Mr. & Mrs. Loren Kramer
Mr. & Mrs. Ross Larson
Mr. James Lockwood
Ms. Margaret Lowery
Mr. R. Anthony Mahavier
Mr. & Mrs. John Mattos, Jr.
Mrs. Jill McCarty
Mr. & Mrs. Bradley McCleery
Mr. & Mrs. Craig McClellan
Mr. Ryan McClellan
Chief & Mrs. Bill Metcalf
Chief & Mrs. Ken Miller (ret.)
Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Mize
Chief & Mrs. Orville ‘Butch’ Moody
(ret.)
Mr. & Mrs. Mark Moothart
Mr. & Mrs. John Nyquist
Mr. & Mrs. Alfred E. O’Brien
Chief Dave Ott
Chief Bob Pfohl
Dr. Michael D. Pierschbacher, Ph.D.
Mrs. Dawn Robinson
Mr. & Mrs. Martin Schoonderwoerd
Mr. Lewis Silverberg
Mr. & Mrs. John A. Simpson
Ms. Susanne Stanford & Mr. Robert
Schroeder
Mr. George Staraza
Mr. & Mrs. Robert Steiner
Mr. & Mrs. Gary Sutherland
Capt. & Mrs. Robert Thurman, (ret.)
Chief Mitch Villalpando
Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence Weitzen
Chief & Mrs. Erwin Willis
Mr. & Mrs. Dick Woltman
SAVE THE DATE!
The Art of Fashion 2008
y donating your auto, boat or RV you can
directly support the important work of the Burn
Institute. In addition, you will also receive the
maximum legal tax deduction and potentially earn a
cash payment. FREE towing and pick-up anywhere in
the United States.
The 10th Annual Los Bomberos de San Diego Golf Tournament was held
on May 2, 2008 at Eastlake Country Club in Chula Vista. President of
Bomberos San Diego, Robert Garcia, (right) and Treasurer Arlo Nietto
(left), presented a check from tournament proceeds to Burn Institute
Executive Director/CEO James Floros. Funds will be used toward Fire/
Burn Prevention Outreach in the Latino Community.
President’s
Circle Members
■ 84% Program Services
■ 13% Fundraising
■ 3% Management & General Costs
Thursday, Sept. 18, 2008
The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe
Come out for lunch and a fun afternoon with your
girlfriends – all while supporting a worthy cause! On
September 18, The Country Friends will hold its 53rd
Annual Art of Fashion Runway Show on the lawn of
the picturesque Inn at Rancho Santa Fe. This popular
event will feature boutiques, a luncheon, runway show
and wine tasting. Several top designers will be featured
including Donna Karan, Emilio Pucci, Oscar de la Renta
and Valentino, among many others... Proceeds from this
event will benefit the Burn Institute.
For information: (858) 756-1192, Ext. 4 /
events@thecountryfriends.org.
The Country Friends™ was formed in 1954 by a group of
charitable and public-spirited Rancho Santa Fe women. The
club has more than 1,200 members and has distributed more
than $12 million to San Diego County agencies over the years.
Join the Heritage Society Today!
The Burn Institute’s Heritage Society is for
those who have included the Burn Institute in
their estate plans. Membership is growing! All
Heritage Society members are invited to an annual
luncheon, as well as receive other special benefits,
as a special thank you. For more information
about the Burn Institute’s Heritage Society,
please contact Diane Sutherland at dsutherland@
burninstitute.org or 858.541.2277 ext. 19.
BURN INST IT UT E BE ACON
GIFTS & TRIBUTES
5
Firefighters Raise
More than $216,000
for Burn Institute
O
n Wednesday, May 7, 2008, hundreds of
uniformed firefighters organized by the
Fire Fighters Advisory Council to the Burn
Institute, raised more than $216,000 in its 8th Annual
Countywide “Give Burns The Boot” Firefighter Boot
Drive. Firefighters representing nearly 30 area fire
departments participated including the Chula Vista
Fire Department, the Rancho Santa Fe Fire Protection
District, the San Miguel Consolidated Fire Protection
District and the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department.
Holding boots, firefighters volunteered to stand at street
intersections located around the county, providing
a convenient opportunity for commuters to make a
donation. The generosity of the public will help to
support burn survivor support programs like the Camp
Beyond The Scars for burn-injured children.
Making a Difference:
High School Junior
Raises Awareness, Funds for
Camp Beyond the Scars
Her parents say she’s a changed girl, but
Carolyn Hillgren was just doing what came
naturally – helping others.
I
n summer 2007, Hillgren volunteered as a resident
Counselor-in-Training at the Burn Institute’s Camp
Beyond the Scars. The experience made a lasting
impact on the high school sophomore, who returned
to Francis Parker School the following fall and founded
the Camp Beyond the Scars Club, with the aim to raise
awareness about traumatic burn injury and raise funds
to support the Burn Institute’s summer and winter
camp programs.
from all grade levels and generated more than $3,500.
Funds raised were boosted by the teen’s parents through
the Rancho Santa Fe Foundation, which brought the
total to $10,000. On top of that, the sum was doubled
again when it was matched by Jerry and Carolyn
Davee – bringing the total amount to an amazing
$20,000! The funds will be directed to Camp Beyond
the Scars, which will help to sponsor more than 50
children for a life-changing week at summer camp.
On April 29, 2008, Hillgren spearheaded a lunchtime
fundraiser at her school. The club’s 15 members helped
to promote the fundraiser, which offered IN-N-OUT
burgers on campus. Hillgren solicited matching
funds from approximately two dozen corporate and
community leaders in anticipation of the fundraiser’s
success. The event was widely supported by students
But Hillgren hasn’t stopped there. In her senior year,
she plans to build on the club’s success so that yearly
donations for camp may continue. Ideally, she would
like to expand the club’s reach. “We are hoping that
other high schools will pick up on the success of this
fundraiser and begin the same club on their campus as
well,” she said.
S AVE THE DATE!
Juvenile Firesetter
Intervention Conference
September 17-19, 2008
Town & Country Resort, San Diego, CA
Conference Deadline: August 15, 2008
(Early bird fee–$225)
For More Information Contact: Aida Flores
858.541.2277, Ext.13 or
email aflores@burninstitute.org
GI F T S & T R I B U T E S
“When you consider that the overwhelming majority
of donations are one dollar bills, it is clear that the
boot drive has become one of the Burn Institute’s
most successful events of the year,” said James Floros,
Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of the
Burn Institute. “The participation of so many fire
service volunteers in the effort is a testament to the
terrific partnership developed over the years, between
firefighters and the Burn Institute, in burn survivor
support, fire and burn prevention education and burn
research. Best of all, as a local non-profit Agency, all of
the money raised here stays here.”
The top fundraising fire departments are winners of
the coveted Bronze Boot Trophy for regional excellence.
In addition, Chief Nick Pavone of the Rancho Santa
Fe Fire Protection District repeats as winner of the 01
Challenge as the Fire Chief who personally raised the
most money during Boot Drive.
Thank you to all of the firefighters who volunteered
their time and energy to help make this year’s Boot
Drive such a success! Below is a list of the participating
agencies and the amount raised this year.
Bonita
Borrego Springs
Carlsbad
Chula Vista
Coronado
Del Mar
El Cajon
Escondido
Imperial Beach
Lakeside
La Mesa
Lemon Grove
Miramar
National City
North County Fire
Oceanside
Pala
Poway
Ramona/CDF/
Intermountain
Rancho Santa Fe
Santee
San Diego Fire
San Miguel
Solana Beach
San Pasqual/
Valley Center
San Pasqual
Volunteer
Viejas/Alpine
Vista
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
3,410
1,649
5,179
9,942
4,135
5,848
9,041
26,755
2,424
5,780
361
2,809
5,544
2,861
10,276
4,375
13,643
3,816
$
$
$
$
$
$
14,002
27,388
9,164
12,573
8,608
3,147
$
3,088
$
$
$
4,060
11,897
5,023
Grand Total:
$ 216,798
BURN INST IT UT E BE ACON
6
BURN SUPPORT
Davee Scholarships
Mentorship Program
Melissa Valencia was born and raised in National City, one
of three children in a single parent household. Times were
tough in her neighborhood, but despite the negative influences
and low socio-economic status of her surroundings, Valencia
rallied. She has not only risen to the challenge educationally, but
has been able to surmount the struggles of a burn survivor – to
become her family’s first generation college student!
It was at Camp Beyond the Scars where Valencia truly learned
what it meant to be a Burn Survivor. It wasn’t just a label, “but
an actual experience,” she later explained. ‘Burn Survivor’
“…means not giving up, it means getting past the stares, the
murmurs, and the false stories people infer…to be comfortable
in your own skin, and to be able to look at your burn and
know and believe that it is just a scar – a scar that tells an
amazing story.”
“…look at your burn and
know and believe that it
is just a scar – a scar that
tells an amazing story.”
From playing on the high school tennis team and serving as Vice
President of M.E.Ch.A. (Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano de
Aztlan), to volunteering at Camp Beyond the Scars while taking
college-level and advanced placement courses, Valencia has
impressed peers and educators alike. “Valencia is a well-rounded
student who is well on her way to a successful and bright future,”
said Luz E. Zuniga, Language Arts/ELD teacher at Sweetwater
High School.
Valencia recently graduated from Sweetwater High School and will be attending the University of California, Santa
Cruz in the fall. She plans to major in psychology and would like to pursue a career in law enforcement
or education.
Support for the Long Road Ahead
T
he Burn Institute is always looking for new
ways to stay connected with burn survivors.
Implemented in Fall 2007, the Burn Institute’s
Mentorship Program was designed to further emphasize
the organization’s commitment to be there for burn
survivors – not just at the beginning of injury and
treatment – but for the long run as well.
Among its numerous burn support programs, the
Mentorship Program was a brand new approach for
the Burn Institute and stemmed from Camp Beyond
the Scars. Designed with the Big Brother-Big Sister
model in mind, the new program was first developed
to maintain positive relationships with counselors and
campers during the off-season between summer and
winter camps. During this time, counselors (mentors)
were asked to learn more about the campers’ (mentees’)
interests/skills and foster those interests through
the program.
Planning barbeques to bring the families of both the
mentor and the mentee together, the Mentorship
Planning Committee (Jason Kimbrell, Ann Malo,
Paula Wernecke, Jim Leckliter, and Dana Carnduff)
established that mentors and mentees would meet every
other week for two hours, write a log reporting each
visit, and return the log after reporting was complete.
A Survivor’s Story: Jacquelyn Owens
At 28, Jacquelyn Owens has already lived a life of experience well beyond her years.
O
n September 30, 2007, Owens was involved in
a major car accident. The car caught fire and
the young woman was trapped. The fire left
Owens with a femur fracture and severe 3rd and 4th
degree burns on her legs.
Her left foot, which was
badly burned, had to be
amputated. Her left shin
and right foot sustained 3rd
degree burns and required
skin grafting. Owens spent
48 days at the UCSD
Regional Burn Center.
Through its strong
partnership with UCSD, the
Burn Institute facilitated
a grant from the Change
of Life Foundation, which
provided for Owens’ care
during her recovery and
helped ease the healing process. The funds were used
to help purchase Cica-Care gel sheets. Made of silicone
gel, the product helps flatten and soften scarring during
the healing process. They are designed to supplement
the pressure garments Owens must wear for treatment.
Despite her severe injuries and a painful recovery,
Owens has picked up where she left off. Refusing to
slow down, she continues to look toward the future
and set impressive goals for herself. Last December,
just a month after leaving the Burn Center, Owens
began work on an MBA degree. In January 2008 she
returned to work as a Field Service Engineer for L3
Communications in San Diego. In May, Owens began
working with a personal trainer to regain her strength.
The Chula Vista native is modest about her
achievements and credits her family and friends for
providing the major support system in her life.
“No matter what curve ball life throws you, you have to
keep moving. Time doesn’t stop,” she said. “(The
experience) has changed me mentally and physically – but with patience, with a belief in myself, and with a
positive attitude, a person can get through adversity.”
Thursday Club “Breaks a Leg” to
Benefit Burn Institute
O
n May 29-30, the Thursday Club held its
successful “Broadway-West” fundraiser
to benefit the Burn Institute. The unique
production was held over a two-day period (as one
luncheon performance and two evening shows), and
included a variety of popular Broadway tunes.
Performers from Starlight and Senior Follies were
featured in the production. Roxanne Fulkerson directed
the production which was produced by the Christian
Community Theatre and organized by the Thursday
Club. The production was well attended, as the
talented troupe of singers and dancers performed songs
from many well-known Broadway shows including
“Phantom of the Opera” and “Damn Yankees,” among
many others.
SUMMER 2008
“When deciding on a beneficiary for their annual
event, it was pretty clear that the club members wanted
to choose an agency deeply involved with helping
burn survivors from the recent wildfires,” said Diane
Sutherland, Burn Institute Assistant Executive Director.
“Everyone had a great time,” said Sutherland, who also
attended the event, adding, “and they raised $28,000!”
Above: UCSD Regional Burn Center nurse, Joann Gutowski (left), is
Mentor to Burn Survivor, Stephanie Ciolino.
In the spring of 2008, the committee was able to get the
program off the ground with a pilot phase – basically
a test run with three mentors and their mentees. One
such pairing was that of mentor Joann Gutowski, a
nurse at the UCSD Regional Burn Center, and her
mentee, Stephanie Ciolino (pictured). After six months
of planning and development, the pilot phase was
intended to work out possible kinks in the program.
With an additional six mentors and mentees already
waiting to enter the Mentorship Program, it is presently
open only to campers and counselors. But there is hope
to accommodate growth as the program gains strength
and interest within the burn community.
However, the Mentorship Program is only a small link
in the cycle of support programs at the Burn Institute.
The ultimate goal of the program is to keep mentees
involved in burn support programs like Camp Beyond
the Scars, while providing a positive role model for
life. And it goes both ways – the life of the mentor is
ultimately enriched by the experience of making a
difference in the life of another.
For more information about the Mentorship Program,
contact Dana Carnduff, Support Services Coordinator,
at 858.541.2277, Ext. 14 or email at
dcarnduff@burninstitute.org.
Money raised will go to the Davee Fund to benefit Burn
Survivor Support Programs, including Camp Beyond
the Scars. Thank you to the Thursday Club for their
generous donation and for providing such an
entertaining fundraiser!
BURN INST IT UT E BE ACON
BURN SUPPORT
7
Members of the UCSD Regional Burn Center and Burn Institute staff at the CHAD Health Hero Awards held March 20, 2008 in Balboa Park. Holding
the award is Dr. Bruce Potenza, center, who accepted the honor on behalf of the Burn Center staff.
UCSD Burn Center
Receives Health Hero Award
On March 20, the UCSD Regional Burn Center was
awarded the 2008 Combined Health Agencies (CHAD)
Health Hero Award, for its significant contribution to
the health of San Diego. The Burn Institute nominated
the Burn Center staff, under the strong leadership of
Dr. Bruce Potenza, who accepted the award at the 14th
annual event held in Balboa Park.
The companies and individuals honored by CHAD
have given freely of their time, talent and resources to
improve the health and well-being of the people of San
Diego County. In its nomination, the Burn Institute
cited the UCSD Regional Burn Center “for their
outstanding dedication to the burn community.”
Under the direction of Dr. Bruce Potenza, Burn Center
staff members offer each patient personalized familycentric care that sets this medical team apart. Because
of the traumatic nature of burn injury and the months
to years of rehabilitation that burn survivors often
face, it takes a special kind of medical professional who
can work closely with family members – from weeks
to months – as they work through the painful, often
arduous process of healing and rehabilitation.
The UCSD Regional Burn Center team provides the
community with extraordinary medical care under
extraordinary circumstances. They do an exceptional
job identifying the outside needs of patients and their
families, then helping to facilitate specific wraparound services to fit those needs, often turning to the
Burn Institute to help families with emergency needs
funding to cover housing, food or transportation costs.
During the recent wildfires, the staff cared for more
than 30 burn survivors, with some patients under
intense medical supervision for more than two months.
It can be a very tough job, but the staff works together
as a cohesive team, supporting one another with the
same compassion and care they provide to their
patients. Congratulations to the entire team!
An Appeal to Fire Chiefs
(continued from page 3)
as our rank and file personnel have. If each fire agency
in San Diego County set one new BI program goal
for their organization this next fiscal year, we would
achieve an unprecedented new level of success for our
Burn Institute.
During my induction speech I listed the following
personal objectives as the new President of the
Association. These objectives include:
Developing and implementing a Diversity
Recruitment program that all fire agencies in San
Diego County can be part of.
Providing Succession Planning seminars to assist fire
agencies develop their own plans for the future of
their organizations.
Grow our relationships between CAL FIRE, USFS,
Tribal Fire Departments, and our Elected Officials.
BURN S U P P O R T
Encourage future consolidations between agencies
and functions in San Diego County.
Improve our support to our Association Sections and
their objectives.
August 4-10, 2008
Summer Camp
at Oakbridge Camp, Ramona CA
For more information, contact Dana Carnduff:
858.541.2277, Ext. 14
KOGO Lends a Hand
for Boot Drive
T
he Burn Institute’s 8th Annual “Give Burns the
Boot” Firefighter Boot Drive took on a brand
new venue this year, when AM 600 KOGO
News Radio stepped in to help promote the fundraiser,
broadcasting reminders throughout the week, and
setting up shop at QUALCOMM Stadium. The Chip
Franklin morning show set up its live broadcast tent in
the early morning hours of May 7, with popular radio
personality LaDona Harvey at the helm from 6 a.m. to
9 a.m., encouraging commuters to stop by and donate
for a good cause. Loyal listeners were all smiles as they
got a chance to meet firefighters from Station 45,
shook hands with Harvey and came away with some
fun freebies. A big thank you to everyone at KOGO!
Seek funds to assist all fire agencies improve
Community Education and Readiness.
I will add one more to this list: Expand our
opportunities to support the Burn Institute.
Together, we as the fire service leaders in San Diego
County, in partnership with our firefighters and the
BI, can meet all these objectives. It just takes a little
effort from all of us. So let’s roll-up our sleeves and get
to work!
– Augie Ghio President,
San Diego County Fire Chiefs’ Association
KOGO’s LaDona Harvey interviews San Diego Fire Captain/FFACBI Vice
President Mike Nuanes (middle), and Burn Institute Executive Director/
CEO James Floros, (right).
BURN INST IT UT E BE ACON
8
EVENTS
35th Annual
Spirit of Courage Awards Banquet
O
n May 22, nearly 600 guests joined the Burn
Institute in honor of 30 exceptional men and
women who bravely risked their lives to save
another from death or injury by fire.
The 35th Annual Spirit of Courage Awards Banquet
was not only a commemorative year of celebration for
the Burn Institute, but took on a somber note as it paid
homage to all those who lost their lives in the 2007
wildfires. As guests arrived at the regal Hyatt Regency
La Jolla, special Spirit of Courage commemorative pins
were distributed to award recipients, both past and
present, which set the tone for the evening.
Host Sponsor
San Diego City Fire
Fighters Local 145
Presenting Sponsors
CDF Firefighters
Benevolent Foundation
Viejas Enterprises
Major Sponsors
FIRE-ETC
Dr. Seuss Foundation at
the Recommendation of
Audrey Geisel
Sycuan Band of Kumeyaay
Nation
Kaiser
New Car Dealers
Association
PAETEC
San Diego National Bank
SDG&E / Sempra Energy
Sunroad Enterprises
Associate Sponsors
Flowers By Coley
Grossmont Healthcare
District
San Diego Fire Protection
Association
Recipient Sponsors
Bonita-Sunnyside Fire
Protection District
American Medical
Response
Contributing Sponsors
California Tribal Fire Chiefs’
Association
Carlsbad Firefighters’ IAFF
Local 3730
Coronado Firefighters
Association
Jim & Joni Harker
Jerry & Carolyn Davee
El Cajon Firefighters
Fieldstone Foundation
San Diego County
Firefighters Advisory
Council to the Burn
Institute
San Diego Laundry
Equipment Co.
San Diego Police Officers
Association, Inc.
San Diego Transit - IBEW
Local 465
San Miguel Firefighters
Foundation - Local 1434
Santee Firefighters
Association
Southern California
Reservation Fire Authority
UCSD Regional Burn Center
(Dr. Potenza)
Vista Fire Protection
District
Burn Institute Chairman of the Board, Jerry Davee, poses with
Spirit of Courage Award recipient, Bernard Feldman and the
evening’s emcee, Marty Levin (NBC 7/39). Feldman risked his
life to save a 15-year-old neighbor from a house fire in Del Mar.
La Mesa Police Detectives Scott Hildebrand and
Shawn Wray were honored for rescuing a Ramona
man trapped in his home during the 2007 wildfires.
(L-R) Board Member Susan McClellan, Vivian Lin, Chairman of the
Board Jerry Davee and wife Carolyn.
Four Carlsbad Police Officers and a civilian were honored for saving
two men from a burning car in Carlsbad. (L-R) Domingo Parra, Carlos
Ferreira, Keith McClanahan, Dzung Luc and Paul Reyes.
Spirit of Courage Award recipients Jim Grant and City of San Diego
Police Officer Caleb Knobel were honored for saving a wheelchairbound woman, her 10-year-old son and infant daughter from an
apartment fire in Loma Portal.
Poway residents Harold
Million and Derrick
Judge who saved the
lives of their 90-yearold neighbors who were
trapped in a house fire.
A third neighbor, John
Horn, took part in the
rescue, but could not
attend the event.
SUMMER 2008
The program began with a welcome by Local 145.
The Carlsbad Fire Department presented The Colors,
accompanied by the North San Diego County
Firefighters Pipes & Drums, who followed a Moment of
Silence with a moving rendition of “Amazing Grace.”
The National Anthem was performed by Alfonso
Le’Acala, who won his own Spirit of Courage Award
in its Inaugural Year – 1973. San Diego Fire-Rescue
Department Chaplain Mickey Stonier delivered the
evening’s invocation. The event’s Master of Ceremonies
was broadcast journalist Marty Levin (NBC 7/39),
who co-presented with Jerry Davee, Burn Institute
Chairman of the Board.
The emotional evening came to an end with a
standing ovation when the final recipients – CAL
FIRE firefighters Brooke Linman, Andrew Pikop, Jose
Viramontes, Captain Raymond Rapue, Jr. and U.S.
Forest Service helicopter pilot, Mike Wagstaff – were
called to the stage. During the Harris Fire last October,
the firefighters had been caught in a burnover incident
while attempting a dangerous rescue in Portrero.
Despite high winds and horrible visibility, Wagstaff
rescued the firefighters and 15-year-old Richard
Varshock and flew them to safety.
“It was the most difficult rescue
I have ever made,” Wagstaff
said, adding that he doesn’t
think of himself as a hero.
Over the years, more than 500 local heroes – including
civilians, fire service and law enforcement
professionals – have been honored with the Spirit of
Courage Award. Congratulations to all of our
heroes – past and present!
Spirit of Courage recipient and CAL FIRE firefighter Brooke Linman
was joined by her mother, Linda Lewis, and sister, Autumn Kaufman,
who had flown in all the way from New Orleans to help her sister
celebrate the honor. “It was a surprise,” said Linman, adding that her
sister was in tears when she finally met Brooke’s rescuer, helicopter
pilot Mike Wagstaff.
CAL FIRE Captain Raymond Rapue, Jr., firefighters Brooke Linman,
Andrew Pikop, Jose Viramontes and U.S. Forest Service helicopter pilot,
Mike Wagstaff were honored for their heroic actions during a daring rescue
at the Harris Fire in Portrero.
(L-R) Robert Parenteau, William Parenteau, Sr., William Parenteau, Border Patrol Officer Joshua
Willey, Firefighter/Paramedics Paul Bisson, Kyle O’Neill, Mark Tomasello and Tyler Lockwood. The
men were awarded for saving the life of a man caught in a car fire on Sea World Drive.
Caltrans workers
Wayne Moeck and
Charles Russell saved
a family from a house
fire in Logan Heights.
The men were unable
to attend the Spirit
of Courage Awards
Banquet.
Sweetwater Union High
School District bus driver,
Dale Fox was recognized
for saving two men from
a burning car in Bonita.
The car rear-ended his bus
before catching fire.
BURN INST IT UT E BE ACON
EVENTS
Volunteer of the Year Award
Maltese Award
C
“For his commitment and vision, helping to
protect and inform the community,” the San Diego
hief Erwin Willis (Ret.) from the Rancho Santa
Fe Fire Protection District was the recipient of
the 2008 Pamela R. Kelly Volunteer of the Year
Award. Willis has been directly involved with the Burn
Institute for more than 13 years in several roles, including Board Member, Spirit of Courage Nominating
Committee member, Chief’s Golf Committee member,
plus involvement in FIRE EXPO and Give Burns the
Boot Firefighter Boot Drive. In 1995, he joined the
Board of Directors and he’s been hooked ever since.
After retiring from the fire service in 2005, Willis started
his own computer business and is now fondly referred
to as the BI’s “Technical Guru,” able to trouble-shoot
practically
anything a hard
drive can throw
at him. Before
and after retirement, Willis
has been
heavily
involved in fire
Last year’s inductee, Oceanside Fire Department
prevention and
Captain Dale Stewart presented the award to
Retired Rancho Santa Fe Fire Chief, Erwin Willis. fire service,
including helping to implement sprinkler codes for new
buildings. For his years of dedication and service to the
Burn Institute, and for helping to make our community
a safer place in which to live – we congratulate
Erwin Willis!
9
County Fire Chiefs’ Association presented its 2008 Maltese
Award to Burn Institute Executive Director/CEO James Floros.
For the firefighters who so proudly wear the Maltese Cross, it
symbolizes unselfishness, honor and commitment to public
safety and human welfare. As such, Floros was recognized for his
17 years of leadership at the Burn Institute, which has enabled
the organization to expand and improve its valuable programs,
fire and burn prevention education, outreach and support
services to communities throughout Southern California.
“I am most proud of the relationship that the Burn Institute has
forged with the fire service,” said Floros of the honor. “It is truly
a hand-in-glove partnership. This award is symbolic of that
relationship and how the two groups have combined forces to
serve our community.”
Community Hero Award
T
he Burn Institute awarded the Community Hero Award to the Walden W. and Jean Young Shaw Foundation.
Since 1991, the Chicago-based Foundation has funded Scholarships and equipment for Camp Beyond the
Scars, supported the Burn Institute’s Juvenile Firesetter Intervention Program and its Mentoring Program.
Over the years, the Foundation has donated nearly $350,000 to the Burn Institute toward its programs and services.
We congratulate the Walden W. and Jean Young Shaw Foundation and thank them for their unwavering support.
Firefighter Night at the
Padres – A Home Run!
OPPORTUNITY DRAWING TICKET
Suggested Donation $5 each or 5 for $20
O
n Saturday, May 10, some 30,000 San Diegans
dusted off their Padres baseball caps and came
out to PETCO Park to meet their local heroes
at the Burn Institute’s 18th annual Firefighter Night at
the Padres. Firefighters representing fire service agencies
throughout the county joined the Burn Institute in
celebration of another successful “Give Burns The Boot”
Countywide Firefighter Boot Drive.
As part of the pre-game ceremony, uniformed
firefighters lined the first and third-base lines, where
they were enthusiastically greeted by the crowd. A
moving firefighter tribute video played on the Padres
Vision screen, reminding everyone of the danger
faced each day by the brave men and women of San
Diego’s fire service. Pre-game ceremonies included
a presentation by the Chula Vista Colorguard and
recognition of young burn survivor, Carlos Quintana,
who also served as the “Play Ball” kid. He was joined
on the field by Chair of the Boot Drive, Carlsbad
Firefighter/Paramedic Jeff Chumbley, representing the
Fire Fighters’ Advisory Council to the Burn Institute.
Chumbley presented a check of the event proceeds to
Burn Institute Executive Director/CEO, James Floros.
L-R: CAL FIRE Captain Raymond Rapue, Jr., Firefighter Brooke
Linman, Richard Varshock and Firefighter Andrew Pikop
The Tiki Hut is a kids playhouse designed
& built by the La Mesa Fire Dept. It is 10’
(W) x 6’ (D) 8’ (H) and can be seen July 19,
2008 at the Fire EXPO / Firefighter Combat
Challenge and on www.burninstitute.org
Fire service personnel lined first and third bases during the
Opening Ceremonies.
Joining Floros and Chumbley was 15-year-old Richard
Varshock, who was injured during the Harris Fire
in October 2007, and CAL FIRE firefighters Captain
Raymond Rapue, Jr., Brooke Linman and Andrew
Pikop, who took part in his rescue. Finally, Firefighter
Jeff Ewert from the Chula Vista Fire Department sang
the National Anthem before the start of the ballgame.
Name __________________________________
Phone __________________________________
Winner Announced at Fire EXPO July 19, 2008
All in all, it was a perfect night at the ballpark. The
Padres beat the Colorado Rockies 3-2, and Greg
Maddux became the ninth pitcher in big league history
to win 350 games.
Net proceeds from a special block of tickets sold by the
FFACBI will benefit Burn Institute burn survivor
support programs such as Camp Beyond the Scars for
burn-injured children.
Winner need not be present to win.
Boot Drive Chair, Carlsbad Firefighter/Paramedic Jeff Chumbley,
presents a check to Burn Institute Executive Director/CEO,
James Floros.
Return checks and tickets to:
Burn Institute
8825 Aero Drive #200
San Diego, CA 92123
A growing number of couples are incorporating philanthropy into their weddings. To learn more about this new way
of creating your legacy, call Diane Sutherland at 858.541.2277 ext.19 or dsutherland@burninstitute.org.
E VE NT S
BURN INST IT UT E BE ACON
10 VOLUNTEERS
Volunteer Spotlight
2008 EVENT CALENDAR
Burn Institute volunteer Fred D’Acquisto III sets a
great example for his peers. He not only appreciates
the connection between the Fire Service and the
Burn Institute, but he believes in giving back to his
community. And though work and life keep him plenty
busy already, he always finds time to volunteer.
JULY
The Viejas FIRE EXPO /
Firefighter Combat Challenge
Presented by Toyota & FIRE-ETC
Saturday, July 19
The busy 24-year-old already splits his time between his
job as a seasonal firefighter with CAL FIRE, finishing
his college degree and working as a volunteer firefighter
with Intermountain Fire Department in Ramona where
he’s been for four years.
QUALCOMM Stadium
11 a.m.-5 p.m.; 2 p.m. Burn Run
Parade. FREE ADMISSION – Bring the
whole family!
D’Acquisto began volunteering for the BI in 2000 when
he was still in high school. In 2006, Fernando Felix,
Fire Inspector with Chula Vista Fire Department,
recruited him to help with the BI’s FIRE EXPO.
Since then, he’s worked in close collaboration with
the Intermountain Fire Department in developing
and maintaining the EXPO’s Dynamic Displays. In
2007, he also participated in the Burn Run and drove
a fire truck into QUALCOMM Stadium as part of
the parade of fire trucks. That same year, D’Acquisto
worked as a Boot Drive Coordinator for the Ramona
“Fred’s dedication is
what we love to see at
the Burn Institute”
AUG
Camp Beyond the Scars
August 4-10, 2008
Oakbridge Camp, Ramona
Fred D’Acquisto III
is a great example of how we can continue our strong
partnership with the Fire Service – well into the future.”
CAL FIRE and Intermountain Fire Department area.
This year, he re-doubled his efforts, encouraging
others in his department to volunteer with Boot Drive
2008– increasing its donations from $8,000 (in 2007)
to $14,000 this year. Besides this year’s Boot Drive, he’s
pitched in at several events this year so far including
Share Your Heart, Firefighter Night at the Padres, and
the Spirit of Courage Awards Banquet.
“Fred’s dedication is what we love to see at the Burn
Institute,” said James Floros, Burn Institute Executive
Director/CEO. “His commitment to the organization
Last year, D’Acquisto earned his AA in Fire Technology,
and is working on a BA in Public Administration. He
plans to continue working in the fire service – and to
continue his volunteerism with the Burn Institute. We
thank Fred D’Acquisto for his time and dedication to
the Burn Institute. He and others like him are leaving a
legacy of service we hope others will follow.
For more information about volunteering, call
Kathleen Frampton at 858.541.2277, Ext. 11 or
email kframpton@burninstitute.org.
SEPT
18th Annual Sunroad San Diego
County Fire Chiefs’ Association
Golf Tournament
Monday, September 8
Maderas Country Club, Poway
For more information, call 858.541.2277
or visit us online at www.burninstitute.org.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Burn Institute Internship Program
Angela Martin joined the Burn Institute’s Internship Program in February, bearing an infectious smile and
boundless energy. The San Diego State University senior came ready to roll up her sleeves and work, assisting
several departments in a variety of tasks over her four months with the organization.
“Angela was really committed in the time she spent here,” said Dana Carnduff, Support Services Coordinator. “She
saw everything through with high energy and a positive attitude.”
Among her many projects, Angela assisted with several special events including
the Share Your Heart Mardi Gras Party, Firefighter Boot Drive and Spirit
of Courage Awards Banquet. She worked with youth and senior citizens
alike – providing community outreach through the BI’s Senior Fire Safety &
Smoke Alarm Program and helping to educate youngsters about fire safety
through Child Link.
“To have young people come in and intern with us is really great to see,”
said Kathleen Frampton, Director of Volunteer Services, adding that the
BI’s Internship Program benefits both the agency and the student. “It gives
them great experience, while bringing a fresh perspective to what we do as an
organization.”
Angela recently graduated from SDSU with a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Science with an emphasis in
Public Health. She plans to become a nurse and hopes to return to the Burn Institute as a volunteer counselor at
Camp Beyond the Scars.
The Burn Institute offers unpaid internship positions with flexible hours throughout the year. Interns are needed
to help in a variety of departments including Clerical/Front Office, Special Events, Programs and
Communications. For more information, contact Kathleen Frampton at 858.541.2277, Ext. 11 or email
kframpton@burninstitute.org.
Come Join Us & Have Fun with Friends!
The Fire Fighters Advisory Council is looking for
volunteers to help with the Viejas FIRE EXPO /
Firefighter Combat Challenge. This spectacular
Summer event will be held on Saturday, July 19 at
QUALCOMM Stadium. All volunteers will receive a
T-shirt and complimentary lunch and beverages.
We request that volunteers work a minimum 4-hour
shift for this event.
Friday July 18
9am-5pm
Set up
Saturday, July 19
7am -11am
Check in Volunteers/Participants
Set up and Prepare Vendor Booths
10am-5pm
T-Shirt Sales
Work Grill & Food Area
Sell Beverages
Kiddie Karnival Games
Ticket Sales Booth
First Aid Booth
5pm-7pm
Tear Down
Clean Up
To sign up contact Kathleen Frampton at
858.541.2277 ext. 11 or
kframpton@burninstitute.org
$600 will provide a range-of-motion device for one week, for a
burn survivor’s rehabilitation or similar physical therapy equipment.
SUMMER 2008
$600
VOL UNT E E RS
REGIONAL UPDATES 11
Burn Survivors Enjoy
Day at Disneyland
Burn Institute – Inland Empire
H
aving Disneyland in our backyard is
one of the many advantages of living in
Southern California – at least from a kid’s
perspective. But during last winter’s Camp Beyond
the Scars, firefighters from the Corona and Norco
Fire Departments and nurses from the Edward G.
Hirschman Burn Center at
Arrowhead Regional Medical
Center were surprised to learn
that some of the local youth
attending camp had never been
to the popular theme park.
On May 17, 2008, the Burn
Institute-Inland Empire (BI-IE) did something about
it, partnering with volunteers from the community to
provide a day at Disneyland for local burn survivors.
Isidro Tellez and his sister Connie were among the
nine kids, from 11 to 18 years, that joined up with their
camp pals for a day of fun. Isidro recently survived
a 50% burn and needed some additional assistance.
While at Disneyland, several firefighters and nurses
volunteered their time, helping to make the special day
possible for Isidro.
“Isidro was an example of courage for many of the
volunteers that helped with winter camp in February,”
said Gary Stansberry, BI-IE Executive Director, adding
that the young boy impressed everyone when he
summoned the strength to bravely snow-tube down the
mountain – not once, but several times!
Executive Director
Gary Stansberry
On May 17, several young burn survivors were hosted for a visit to
Disneyland, (some for the first time!) Volunteers, including firefighers
and nurses joined the Burn Institute-Inland Empire for the fun outing.
Like camp, the Disneyland trip served local youth as
part of the agency’s burn survivor support services,
explained Stansberry.
On hand to meet and greet the children as they
prepared for their day of adventure were representatives
from the Norco and Corona City Councils and
members of the Corona Firefighters’ Association. Chikfil-A provided breakfast for the group and sent along
their Cow Mascot to bid the group farewell.
The morning started out unseasonably warm, with
temperatures reportedly reaching 108 degrees by
mid-afternoon. It took plenty of water and assistance
from Disneyland personnel, but the kids enjoyed their
day despite the heat; the group was issued alternative
entrance passes, sparing them from having to wait in
long ride lines. What a relief!
As their big day ended, the exhausted group had smiles
all around. Their next adventure? The summer session
of Camp Beyond the Scars, of course!
Special Presentation at
Corona City Council Meeting
O
n June 4, 2008, BI-IE Executive Director
Gary Stansberry appeared before the City of
Corona City Council to express gratitude to
local fire service for their role in the winter session of
Camp Beyond the Scars. Stansberry expressed heart-felt
thanks to the many volunteers who provided support
for the camp, and presented plaques and certificates of
appreciation to several in attendance.
Those honored included Corona Firefighter/Camp
Director, Tim Luna; Corona Firefighter/Lead Male
Counselor, Fernando Cardona; Corona Firefighters/
Transportation Coordinators, Mark Wilde and Mike
Thompson; Corona Fire Captain/Offsite Activity
Coordinator, Roger Williams; Corona Firefighter/Camp
Videographer, John Deyoe; Corona Firefighter/Offsite
Transportation Coordinator, Ryan Remp – and from
the Corona Training Staff, Camp Counselor Tammy
Gonzales.
Also presented was a plaque of appreciation to the men
and women of the Corona Firefighters’ Association and
the City of Corona Fire Department for both
organizations’ long standing support of the Burn
Institute-Inland Empire. Particular thanks were
expressed to Fire Department Chief Michael Warren,
and BI-IE Board President Deputy Chief David
Waltemeyer.
EXECUTIVE BOARD
President
Deputy Chief David Waltmeyer
Vice President
Chief Ed McOrmond
Chief Financial Officer
William “Bud” Korn
Secretary
Gayanne Bonar
Board of Directors
Chief Dennis Ellison
Ray Flores
James A. Floros
Dev Gnanadev, M.D.
Captain Darren Hoopingarner
Captain Thomas Jay
Victor Joe, M.D.
Chief Stan Lake
Adrian Martinez, R.N.
Chief L. Dennis Michael, Ret.
Captain Roger Noon
Penni Overstreet-Murphy
Chief Michael Smith
Advisory Board
Russ Bogh
Chief Pat Dennen
Biff Gordon
Laura Ortega
Sheriff Stan Sniff
Chief Michael Warren
Chief Howard Windsor
Yes! I want to learn more about the Burn Institute
___ Please send me information on planned giving
___ Please send me information on available programs and services
___ I am interested in becoming a Burn Institute volunteer
___ I am interested in joining the Burn Institute Auxiliary
Clip & Mail
S AV E T H E D AT E!
___ I would like to support the important work of the Burn Institute
Send a Kid to Camp Golf Tournament
September 22, 2008
Sierra Lakes Golf Club
Teeing off to send kids to camp will
be the order of the day on the morning
of Sept. 22, 2008. All golfers and
organizations are invited to participate
in the Burn Institute-Inland Empire’s
fall tournament to be held at the Sierra
Lakes Golf Club. Last year’s tournament
was a hit, with top-notch amenities,
while the course proved to be an ideal
venue for players of all skill levels.
For additional information and
registration contact Gary Stansberry at
(909) 519-1063.
BURN
RE
GI O NSAULP PUOPRDTAT E S
Enclosed is my tax-deductible gift of $ _____________________
Credit Card # ______________________ Exp. Date____________
❍ Visa ❍ MC ❍ Discover
Contact Information
NAME ______________________________________________________
ADDRESS ___________________________________________________
CITY _______________________ STATE ______ ZIP________________
PHONE (__________) _________________________________________
E-MAIL _____________________________________________________
Clip and Mail to: Burn Institute
8825 Aero Dr., #200
San Diego, CA 92123
BURN INST IT UT E BE ACON
12 PROGRAMS & SERVICES
Programs and
Services
Fire and Burn Prevention Education
• Burni the Dragon’s Preschool Curriculum Guide
• Fire and Burn Prevention, Fire, Burns & You
Curriculum Guide
• Firesafe Kids Interactive Program K-3
• It’s Your Choice: Stop Fires and Burns
• Burns are Serious Business
• Child Care Burn Prevention
• Juvenile Fire Setter Program
• Senior Fire Safety & Smoke Alarm Program
• First Responder Smoke Alarm Program
• Wildfire Program
• Fire Safety Training Program (Nominal Fee)
Burn Research
• Funding Vital Burn Research and Treatment
Burn Survivor Support
• Camp Beyond The Scars for Burn-Injured Children
• Retreat For Adult Burn Survivors
• School Re-Entry Program
• Emergency Needs Fund
• Special Assistance Fund
• Scholarship Program
• Adult Support Group
• Holiday Party
• Special Outings
Community Service
• Spirit of Courage Awards Banquet
• Fire and Burn Prevention Literature
• Public Service Announcements
• Speakers Bureau
i
Program Highlight
Beacon Bits
You are reading the Summer 2008 issue
of the Burn Institute Beacon. Please don’t
throw this newsletter away! Pass it along
to a friend. If you know someone who
would like to receive this publication,
would like to be removed from our mailing
list, or if you have an address change,
please e-mail kframpton@burninstitute.org.
he Burn Institute Board of Directors would
T
like to welcome its newest members: Chief
Augie Ghio and Eddie Villavicencio.
warm welcome to the most recent member
A
of the Burn Institute family, Gwenith
Lammers, who is our new Community
Outreach Specialist/ Juvenile Firesetter
Interventionist.
n April 20, the Burn Institute participated in
O
the 29th Annual Day at the Docks. The sundrenched event was held on San Diego Bay
and netted the BI a really big fish: $4,600!
Thanks to all involved in this fun, fishy
family event!
Staff
James A. Floros
Executive Director/
Chief Executive Officer
Diane Sutherland
Assistant Executive Director/
Chief Operating Officer
n May 15, the Burn Institute teamed up with
O
the UCSD Regional Burn Center for a
Summer Beach Safety segment at Mission
Beach. Lifeguards from San Diego-Fire Rescue
joined the Burn Center’s Jason McSweeney,
N.P., who discussed burn injuries and burn
prevention tips. The segment aired on Good
Morning San Diego with KUSI’s Lena’
Lewis reporting.
Diane Sparacino
Director of Communications
Linda Van Wickel
Executive Assistant
Dana Carnduff
Support Services Coordinator/
Juvenile Fire Setter Interventionist
n May 17, the Cornerstone Therapeutic
O
Riding Center in Ramona held its Inaugural
Chili Cook-off, with a portion of the gate’s
proceeds to benefit the Burn Institute. Local
firefighters participated in the family event,
which was a great day for everyone involved!
Thanks to Executive Director, Judy Beckett
and her staff who, despite the recent wildfires,
never wavered in their determination to see
this event through!
Reyna Doerr
Development Assistant
Aida Flores
Director of Program Services/
Juvenile Fire Setter Interventionist
Kathleen Frampton
Director of Volunteer Services
Art Garcia
Community Outreach Specialist/
Juvenile Fire Setter Interventionist
(Imperial Valley)
orrection: In the Spring 2008 issue of The
C
Beacon, William & Dotty Metcalf were not
listed as President’s Circle members. We
apologize for the error.
Gwenith Lammers
Community Outreach Specialist/
Juvenile Fire Setter Interventionist
Christina Lesniak
Development Coordinator
Burni the Dragon’s Preschool
Curriculum Guide
Burni the Dragon is a program designed
specifically for children in Preschool through
Kindergarten. The Preschool Curriculum
Guide is designed to empower educators to
provide fire and burn prevention information
to their students.
The guide is
available in English
and Spanish and
contains seven
lessons: What’s
Hot in My House;
Be Cool, Cool a
Burn; Matches and
Lighters Aren’t for
Children; If Your
Clothes Catch Fire, STOP, DROP and ROLL;
Get Out Fast; Family Escape Plan, and Burn
Prevention/Fire Safety Review.
To request a FREE Burni the Dragon’s
Curriculum Guide, call the Burn Institute at
858.541.2277. Educators can also download
a free, printable PDF (English and Spanish)
from the Burn Institute website:
www.burninstitute.org.
Rick Ochocki
Special Events Manager
S AV E THE D ATE !
18th Annual Sunroad San Diego
County Fire Chiefs’ Association
Golf Tournament
Monday, September 8
Burn Institute – San Diego
8825 Aero Drive #200
San Diego, CA 92123-2269
858.541.2277 phone
858.541.7179 fax
18th Annual
SANDIEGOCOUNTY
FIRE CHIEFS ’
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
I
O
CONTACT US
www.burninstitute.org
Maderas Country Club, Poway
Sunroad
Vicki Schoonderwoerd
Office Manager
For more
information, to
reserve a foursome
or learn more
about sponsorship
opportunities,
please call
858.541.2277.
Burn Institute – Imperial Valley
612 “J” Street, Suite 3
Imperial, CA 92251
760.355.3175 phone
760.353.3005 fax
Burn Institute – Inland Empire
Edward G. Hirschman Burn
Center at Arrowhead Regional
Medical Center
400 North Pepper Avenue
Colton, CA 92324-1801
909.519.1063 phone
N
GOLFTOURNAMENT
Burn Institute Beacon
Published tri-annually by:
Burn Institute
SUMMER 2008
Editor
Diane Sparacino
dsparacino@burninstitute.org
Design & Layout
Kramer Design
www.kramerdesign.com
Printing
AlphaGraphics
us586.alphagraphics.com
& SE
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B UR NPROGRAMS
INS TITUTE
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