The men and women of the Los Angeles Fire Department and their families look forward to meeting you this Sunday, at what city leaders are calling the "Biggest Ever Public Safety & Community Appreciation Picnic".

It may be big, but it won't be complete without you - so plan on joining us!

Sunday, November 2, 2008
1:00 PM to 4:00 PM [Rain or Shine]
Public Safety & Community Appreciation Picnic
Holleigh Bernson Park
20500 Sesnon Boulevard (at Porter Ranch Rd.)
Porter Ranch, CA

Press Release...

Mayor Villaraigosa and Councilman Smith to Host Biggest Ever Public Safety & Community Appreciation Picnic to Celebrate Heroes of Recent Disaster

Los Angeles - Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and Councilman Greig Smith are holding a Public Safety & Community Appreciation Picnic on Sunday, November 2, 2008 from 1:00 to 4:00 pm at Holleigh Bernson Park in Porter Ranch, to honor all of the public safety officers as well as the hundreds of residents, community groups, Neighborhood Councils, and businesses that came together to assist during recent disasters in the San Fernando Valley.

The San Fernando Valley was hit hard by two traumatic events recently - the Chatsworth Metrolink crash on Sept. 12 that killed 25 people and injured over 130, and the wildfires that charred nearly 20,000 acres, destroyed dozens of homes and killed two people in mid-October. The community has not experienced had such a painful event since the 1994 Northridge Earthquake.

The excellent and well-coordinated response from public safety officers, community members, Neighborhood Councils, local businesses and community groups during these disasters went above and beyond any expectations.

The speed, skill, selflessness, bravery, generosity and ability to work together showed the true character of our community. In addition to our police officers and firefighters, hundreds of local community heroes gave aid to the injured and comforted families without hesitation.

The Mayor and Councilman Smith will be joined by LAFD Chief Douglas Barry, LAPD Chief William Bratton, LA County Fire Chief Michael Freeman, and many other local elected officials and leaders of public safety agencies.

The event will include free food for all, entertainment, children’s activities, police and fire vehicles, helicopter flyovers, public safety booths and more.

We are pleased to offer an interactive map with driving directions. Please bring your appetite for food and fun, and don't forget your camera!

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Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department