Residents who were close to the danger give thanks to the firefighters

GRATEFUL—A group of Oak Park residents present firefighters at the Oak Park fire station on Deerhill Road with a state-of-the-art barbecue as a way to say thanks for their heroic efforts during the Topanga fire. The residents raised $1,300 to purchase the gift. Oak Park residents took time out from their Thanksgiving celebrations last week to show their gratitude to local firefighters.

About 40 residents showed up at Fire Station No. 36 on Deerhill Road on Thanksgiving morning to present a gift of appreciation to the three firefighters serving a 24 hour shift. Residents brought with them a large, state-of-the-art barbeque and several steaks, all purchased with donations from firefighters for saving their homes from the flames that swept the area in September.

“If they weren’t here to help, our houses probably would be burnt down,” said Adam Kaplan, 11, of Oak Park. “The fire came right up to the back of our house.”

Adam’s father, Howard, and Mark Phillips organized the effort, asking neighbors to help purchase something the firefighters needed. Each family gave $50 for

“When we approached them to ask what we could do for them they were very shy. They said ‘no, no.’” Phillips said. “There are plenty of things they need and with budget cuts in California, it’s not like they’re flush with money.”

The new barbeque replaces an older one the firefighters were using. Another item the station could use is a Stairmaster exercise machine.

“We are really grateful. We’ve never had anything like this,” said Capt. John Tucker. “We do this job because we love it. We love to help people. It’s a privilege to work at a station where there is such an outpouring from the community.”

The firemen work three, 24hour shifts every nine days. They do their own shopping and cooking while on duty, so the barbeque will come in handy.

“We drive by this firehouse 10 times a day everyday. It shouldn’t take a disaster to remind you how important the firehouse is,” Phillips said.

Vivian Rotenstein, 11, came to the station with her father, Sergiu and her dog, Bisou.

“We’re thanking them for all their hard work,” Rotenstein said. “I’m thankful the firefighters saved our house.”