VENTURA : Firefighter Honored for Help With Team

The Ventura City Fire Department has named Don Bartosh, an 11-year veteran, as the city’s firefighter of the year for his contributions to the department’s hazardous materials program.

Bartosh, 37, a former Ventura County sheriff’s deputy, helped develop the city’s hazardous materials response team, said Assistant Chief Kenneth Hess.

“From selecting equipment to participating in the training of others, anytime there was a job that needed addressing, he stepped to the forefront,” said Hess.

Bartosh completed both the technical training and specialist training when he was certified as a hazardous material specialist five years ago.

Bartosh was honored at a City Hall ceremony before Monday’s City Council meeting.

Also singled out at the ceremony were Capt. Brian Gordon and Fire Inspector Jim Glew, who received incentive awards for developing a pamphlet explaining the city’s sprinkler guidelines to building contractors.