It was a beautiful Saturday afternoon just a few weeks ago. Not a cloud in the sky, a slight breeze out of the north, and the air soon took on a familiar and mouth-watering aroma.
The parking lot of the Firefighter’s First Credit Union on Colorado Blvd. was soon swarming with 300 fire family members, kids, community members, LAFD fire rigs, and BBQ aficionados. They came from near and far – professional grillers, chefs, and lots of eaters – all to take in the 3rd Annual Fire It Up! BBQ Competition.
Fire It Up! is a community event that donates all of its net proceeds to two organizations each year: The Fire Family Foundation and the African American Firefighter Museum, both here in Los Angeles. Michelle Banks, president of the African American Fire Fighter Museum, was interviewed on ESPN 710 on October 6, 2018, at L.A. Live. She said, “the museum is pleased to partner with The Fire Family Foundation. Their overall support of the museum has been incredibly positive as we continue to grow. The community loves it and we are so happy to be a part.”
The event this year included several vendors of food, wearables, real estate information, LAFD Recruitment, CERT, UFLAC, and AAFM information. A representative from Councilman Jose Huizar’s office was also there. An awesome kids’ zone play area awaited the little ones, with face paint and corn hole toss. The organizers brought an array of interesting booths, and community awareness information to share.
This is the second year at the Firefighters First Credit Union location and the Eagle Rock rock provided a cool backdrop for the fantastic blues band that played. Dixie Abramian, CEO and President of the Firefighters First Credit Union and Chair of the Fire Family Foundation board remarked, “The proceeds generated by the BBQ competition have allowed the Foundation to offset some of the financial burdens of more than 13 firefighter families this year alone, and those in need throughout the state and nation. We have been able to provide more than $55,000 in support to these families, as well as $55,000 in scholarships, due to our generous donors. We stand committed to serve those who serve us.”
The BBQ competition winners:
• First Place went to Cathy Gilbert from Los Angeles Women in the Fire Service Team
• Runner Up and in 2nd place, Dwayne Harper from LADOT
• People’s Choice Award went to Mark Curry and Team Curry
• Best Ribs went to Antoine McKnight
• Best Chicken went to Mike Finger and Team Finger
• Best Tri Tip went to Jayson Johnson
By Isaac Burks
Photos by David Blaire