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must rely on the generosity of its friends and supporters to meet the cost of providing programs and services, year-round, to visitors. There are many ways for you to contribute, and many benefits in store when you choose to do so. We welcome your involvement.

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$1,000 Deputy Chief Patron
$   750 Assistant Chief Patron
$   500 Battalion Chief Patron
$   250 Captain Patron
$   225 Inspector Patron
$   200 Engineer Patron
$   120 Firefighter Patron

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All donations should be mailed to the Museum at
1401 South Central Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90021AAFF Museum

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Fundraiser Brings Out Real Heroes

Thursday, 16 November 2006

los angeles By Earl Heath

Photo by Jon Gaede - (l-r) Camille Walters, Jim Hill - Deputy Chief LAFD and Tanzi Cole at AAFM fundraiser.

The African American Firefighters Museum (AAFFM) hosted one of its many fundraisers recently. More than some 450 firefighters, city personnel and community people gathered at the AAFFM.

The Museum located at 1401 Central Ave. in central Downtown Los Angeles had its visitors come from San Diego, Santa Monica and other areas of Southern California.

"We're here to support our community," said Marilyn Washington, a native of Lansing, Michigan. "Firefighters are risking their lives daily. When there is a function like this, everyone should be here."

The event was a time for many to bond and let their hair down on a social event and let firefighters blend with the community on an occasion that is not a business call.

The atmosphere was mellow and gave many an opportunity to visit the museum that pays homage to the African American firefighters in Los Angeles. There is a great deal of pride among the contemporary firefighters and appreciation for what those have gone through before them. "Our elders worked very hard to get us in the position we're in," said Armando Hogan, Stentorians President. "We want people to know that this place exists and we want them to take away a piece of history when they leave here."

Photo by Rita Long - (L-r) Marilyn Washington, Judy Holland and Janet Mckinnon at the AAFM 'dance under the stars' fundraiser.

The museum itself has special photographs, badges and firefighter memorabilia from as far back as the 19th century. One can get feel of what some of the true firefighter heroes dealt with in past years. Station 30 was one of two segregated fire stations in Los Angeles from 1924 to 1955. "I've witnessed the noble spirit of the Museum staff as well as the Stentorians (Black Firefighter Association) and how passionate and determined they are at paving the way for future Black firefighters," said volunteer Tanzi Cole.

Now it sits in iconic fashion and pays tribute to those who suffered many indignities but still continued to do their job.

"I felt it only right that I come and contribute tonight," said Cherise Jones. "There's a lot of history here plus we can have a good time for a good cause." Jones is a firefighter from San Diego.

Also on hand was Rob Gill, former Canadian Grey Cup Champion. His work was viewed on several walls on this particular evening at the museum. Gill is one of the most talented artists of this generation. His drawings include Pearl Bailey, Ella Fitzgerald, Dizzy Gillespie, Muhammad Ali and Redd Foxx. He can work a canvas like a magician works a wand. His drawings grab you and mesmerize you in the most spiritual matter.

Firefighters fought bigotry early in the era and the benefit raises money to keep the museum going. Deputy Chief Jim Hill applauded those in attendance. "To have a function where members of the public can come in and see all the contributions that were made by the city of Los Angeles Fire Department and the county by the African American firefighters is one of the most significant things that could happen."

Hill currently is the highest ranking African American in the history of the Los Angeles City Fire Department. There are many young people who see the museum as a spark plug for their future. "They (young people) can see that this is the type of career that is achievable

Funding