Ceremonies Will Honor Local Heroes

Three recognition ceremonies to honor San Fernando Valley police officers, firefighters, paramedics and citizens who have made outstanding contributions to their communities are scheduled this month.

Los Angeles City Councilman Hal Bernson’s 15th annual Police Officers, Firefighters and Paramedic Recognition Luncheon will take place at noon today at the Airtel Plaza in Van Nuys.

Bernson will honor individuals from the northwest Valley who have contributed to the safety of their community.

“The men and women we recognize at this event are truly exceptional,” said Bernson. “They are a tribute to their uniforms.”

Retired Los Angeles Police Chief Daryl Gates will serve as master of ceremonies.

Donald Manning, chief of the Los Angeles Fire Department, also will speak.

The Mid-Valley Community Police Council’s 15th annual Citizens’ Recognition Luncheon will be held at 11:45 a.m. Oct. 27 at Sportsmen’s Lodge in Studio City.

The luncheon will honor community members who have risked their lives to help someone in need, organizers said.

LAPD Chief Willie Williams will deliver the keynote address, and KNBC-TV weatherman Fritz Coleman will serve as master of ceremonies.

The Police Council and the Van Nuys division of the Los Angeles Police Department will honor people who have physically aided officers in apprehending suspects or volunteered their time to the department.

“These aren’t vigilantes . . . they’re simply people who have made their neighborhood a safe place to live by taking it upon themselves to assist the police,” said Flip Smith, president of the Mid-Valley Community Police Council.

The 26th annual Police Activity League Supporters (PALS) Police Luncheon will take place at 11:30 a.m. Oct. 28 at Sportsmen’s Lodge.

The event will honor officers from the department’s North Hollywood Division who have been named officer of the month. The officer of the year, reserve officer of the year and citizen of the year will also be chosen.

Los Angeles Mayor Richard Riordan will speak, and KIIS-FM radio personality Rick Dees will serve as master of ceremonies.

Ed Brentlinger, senior lead officer with the North Hollywood Division, said the event will honor citizens and department personnel who “get personally involved” to make their community a safer place.

“They take their work beyond what they have to,” he said.