Retired Division Chief Art Laursen, Deputy Chief Curtis Jackson and Sheriff/Chief Doug Binnewies perform traditional Bell Ceremony at picnic.
The Mariposa County Fire Department (MCFD) Annual Appreciation picnic provides an opportunity for members to enjoy a day of food, fun and family. From face-painting and crafts for the kids, to prize drawings and a photo opportunity booth, to great food, popcorn and dessert, the day is focused on enjoying each other, catching up with friends from other departments and honoring a few of MCFD’s outstanding members. Thanks also to the many donors that provided prizes, food, beverages and talents such as photography to help the event to be a success.
(Pictured left) Chief Kilner and family enjoyed the face-painting and having fun at the photo opportunity booth.
With exceptionally dry weather, this past year has been extremely active for MCFD. Add to that the transition in leadership and a new vision in recruitment and training, the department and all of MCFD’s stations have been busy in their communities. As we continue to improve and grow, we will be sharing our accomplishments and celebrations.
And, speaking of celebrations, here is a list of this year’s award winners. Please look for your community station and honored member and congratulate them. They have spent the past year serving their respective communities. We are very proud of all of them.
Outstanding Member Of The Year: Station 21, Midpines – Dale Deem, Station 23, Catheys Valley - Melonie Noel, Station 24, Don Pedro – David Harer, Station 25, Mt. Bullion – Melonie Noel,Station 26, Coulterville – Magnum Godfrey,Station 27, Mormon Bar – Jesse Jensen, Station 28, Bridgeport –Alan Warner, Station 29, Lushmeadows – Alan Warner, Station 31, Greeley Hill – Roy Dunston, Station 32 Ponderosa Basin – Ernie Perez, Station 33, Fish Camp – Heather SwanStation 37, Bootjack – Keith Pearson, Grizzly Of The Year: Christian Avila.
Department Awards: Rookie of the Year- Jesse Jensen, EMS- Magnum Godfrey, Support- Darlene Prough, Firefighter of the Year- Alan Warner, Captain of the Year- Al Brondolo, Station of the Year - Fish Camp, Chief’s Award-Ernie Perez.
We would also like to extend our thanks and appreciation to our partners CalFire, Forestry, MPUD, Sheriff’s Office, Mercy Ambulance and our Grizzly firefighters for your support and attendance. Sheriff/Chief Doug Binnewies shared that as partners each of us is part of a bigger team working together to keep our community safe.
Now would be a good time to join the team. Mariposa County Fire is currently accepting applications for volunteer firefighter and support positions. No experience is necessary. Need more information or an application? Contact the office at 209.966.4330. Start the New Year joining in our efforts of neighbors helping neighbors.
Article & photos provided by Debbie Cook
