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3 Safety Officers Feted for Community Deeds

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In 1927, it was little more than a patch of citrus groves and poultry ranches beneath the Santa Susana Mountains called Sunshine Ranch. That same year, the community adopted Granada as its new name, using a city in Spain for inspiration. In 1942, the name expanded to Granada Hills.

On Friday, 69 years later, members of the business community came together to wish “the Valley’s Most Neighborly Town” a happy birthday and to honor three public safety officers at a luncheon in Van Nuys.

“People really care for each other,” said Jean Seratti, a small business owner and past president of the Granada Hills Chamber of Commerce, which sponsors the annual event. “It’s a wonderful place to work.”

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Steven Lilienthal, a 22-year veteran of the Los Angeles City Fire Department whom the chamber honored as the community’s top paramedic, agreed.

“It’s home for me,” he said, recalling his years at Granada Hills Elementary School, Patrick Henry Middle School and Granada Hills High School.

Dan Taylor and Tamra Harrison, honored as the top police officer and firefighter, respectively, said they welcomed the praise from a community they enjoy serving.

“It’s nice to be recognized for the work we do,” Harrison said.

The trio were presented ornate certificates for their work and the thanks of a grateful community that has struggled with the effects of the 1994 earthquake for the past 2 1/2 years.

“These people do not stand alone in their efforts,” chamber Vice President Dave Cash told the audience, extending thanks to the other men and women who help keep the community safe.

Vance Proctor, commanding officer of the Los Angeles Police Department’s Devonshire Division, said that given the size of the city, it’s an especially rewarding tribute.

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“It’s important that we be able to identify not just with the position but with the person,” he said.

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