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Translate this page ![]() Limited-edition prints of Richard Stergulz’s painting of De Luz Volunteer Fire Dept. Chief Mike Manchor are being used as a fundraiser for Valley Oaks... Artist paints portrait signifying heroismWednesday, November 21st, 2007 Issue 47, Volume 11.
With fires raging all over the state, resources were limited. They had only two fire trucks on the scene with 10 volunteers led by Chief Mike Manchor against the encroaching flames. Seeing that it had already consumed a number of the homes, they found an American flag in one of the burning homes, drew a line of scrimmage and, with hoses at the ready, were determined that the fire was not going to advance past that point. They fought back the flames and were able to keep the fire from taking any more of the Valley Oaks community. The firefighters saw the American flag as their symbol of victory. Upon hearing of this from a friend, local artist Richard Stergulz was moved to act. "I’m not a firefighter and can’t imagine what they went through to save these homes," Advertisement The firefighters’ heroism inspired Stergulz to paint a portrait of a fireman showing the determination and courage that each one of them has to have when putting their lives on the line to save others. Stergulz is creating limited-edition prints of the painting, as well as cards and magnets, with all the net proceeds going to fill the needs of the residents of the Valley Oaks community. Car window decals will also be sold with the image to help support the De Luz Volunteer Fire Department, which was instrumental in saving not only much of this community but the surrounding area. Stergulz attended the American Academy of Art in Chicago and has had a successful illustration and fine art career for more than 20 years. For more information on the firefighter art, visit www.stergulzart.com. 1 comments
We were one of the homes lost in the Valley Oaks fire, yet my heartfelt appreciation goes out to those brave firefighters battling the blazes. Days later while digging through our remains my husband observed one of the firefighters confiding to a neighbor who's home was saved, that he wished he could have done more as he shed tears. We were deeply touched and are deeply appreciative even after this loss. Thank you to those serving us in need. You are amazing, you are loved for what you do. |
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