SFD News and Information: December 2013

Sunday, December 29, 2013

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

Extrication Wellesley & Belt

Incident #: 2013061089
Date of Incident: 12/29/2013
Issuing Officer: Battalion Chief C Jones

Narrative:
On December 29, 2013 at 8:28 P.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded to an extrication call involving two vehicles at the intersection of Wellesley and Belt. Fire crews arrived within minutes to fine one light sedan and one SUV. There were two occupants in the SUV and three occupants in the sedan. All five patients were checked for injuries, the two patients in the SUV were not injured, the three in the sedan were found with neck and back injuries and after extrication form the car, were transported by AMR to nearby medical centers. Spokane Police were on scene and are investigating.

# Firefighters Responding: 16

Other Agencies Responding:
Spokane Police Department, AMR

End Of Release
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Two North Side Structure Fires

Incident #: 2013060920
Date of Incident: 12/28/2013
Issuing Officer: Craig Cornelius/Battalion Chief

Narrative:
On Saturday, December 28, 2013 a little after 9:00 PM, the Spokane Fire Department Dispatch Center received a 911 call for a house fire located at 3017 E. Rowan. Callers reported fire in a single story residence with smoke coming from the eaves and roof of the home. Fire Dispatchers diverted Ladder 2 from a nearby medical call and assigned it to this incident along with 5 other apparatus. Ladder 2’s crew arrived on scene within 3 minutes, reported a working fire and went to work. Command was assumed by a Battalion Chief arriving shortly after Ladder 2. Ladder 2’s personnel verified everyone was out of the home by speaking with bystanders and performing a search of the structure. Engine 8 applied the first water on the fire with the additional incoming resources coordinated into the fire attack. This fire was controlled within 10 minutes of Ladder 2’s arrival, but crews spent several hours removing burned material from the home and checking for hot spots. Fire cause is accidental in nature and appears to be related to a wood stove used to heat the home. There were no injuries at this incident, and one tenant and dog have been displaced by the fire and the resulting damage to the structure.
Shortly after 10:47 PM, another fire was reported at an apartment complex located at 6901 N. Wiscomb. Eight apparatus, most having just worked at the Rowan fire were now responding to this incident. Engine 18, the first to arrive, reported fire and smoke showing from the eave line on the north side of the building. Engine crews advanced hose lines to two of the upper units. They found fire in a common wall between the two apartments and in the attic above the wall. Occupants were evacuated, followed by a search of the building’s four apartment units to verify everyone was safe. Firefighters had the fire controlled within 20 minutes, but continued to work for several hours making sure the fire was out. The fire originated in a second floor wall with the cause being electrical in nature. The building sustained fire damage in two of the upstairs apartments and a portion of the attic. One family of 3 has been displaced.

Cause:
First Fire wood stove.
Second Fire electrical.

Damage:
Rowan Fire: 3 rooms and a portion of the attic.
Wiscomb Fire: Common Wall in two apartments and a portion of the ceiling/attic.

# Firefighters Responding: 27

Dollar Loss: $ 35000

Other Agencies Responding:
AMR

End Of Release
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Saturday, December 21, 2013

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North Side Garage Fire

Incident #: 2013059644
Date of Incident: 12/21/2013
Issuing Officer: Clive Jones/ Battalion Chief

Narrative:
On Saturday, December 21 at 12:13 PM, 6 companies of the Spokane Fire Department responded to a reported fire of a detached garage at 2812 N Cincinnati. Firefighters arrived quickly to discover heavy smoke showing from the garage. Firefighters using pre-connected hand lines quickly located and extinguished the fire. The fire was completely extinguished in 30 minutes. There were no injuries to civilian or firefighters on this incident.

Cause:
The fire cause is under investigation by the SFD's SIU

Damage:
Garage is a total loss

# Firefighters Responding: 22

Dollar Loss: $ 20,000

Other Agencies Responding:
Spokane Police Department, AMR

End Of Release
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Friday, December 20, 2013

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North Battalion Structure Fire

Incident #: 2013059341#
Date of Incident: 12/19/2013
Issuing Officer: Battalion Chief Bill Donahoe

Narrative:
At 09:45 PM, December 19, 2013 Spokane Fire Department crews responded to 1107 West Decatur on a reported structure fire. The first arriving Chief arrived on scene and reported a single story wood framed dwelling with smoke showing from the roof eaves. All of the occupants were reported safely out of the structure. Companies were assigned to extinguish and confine the fire, vertically ventilate the roof and protect the occupant’s valuables. The attic fire was brought under control within 30 minutes. Fire Companies remained on scene overhauling and completing a fire watch until 02:00 AM. Four adult occupants were displaced and staying with family until repairs can be completed to the home. Avista disconnected the power and natural gas to the home at least until the following morning. No injuries were reported by civilians or firefighters.

Cause:
The Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit has determined that the fire originated in a wall which had wood framing in close proximity to the operating fireplace. Radiant heat from the fireplace ignited the wall which then extended into the attic of the home.

Damage:
There is fire damage to the exposed wall and attic next to the fireplace and chimney. Light smoke damage also occurred throughout the entire home.

# Firefighters Responding: 24

Dollar Loss: $ 10,000.00

Other Agencies Responding:
A.M.R. Ambulance and Avista

End Of Release
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Tuesday, December 17, 2013

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Warehouse Fire

Incident #: 2013058726
Date of Incident: 12/16/2013
Issuing Officer: Battalion Chief Steve Sabo

Narrative:
At 2:46 this afternoon, Monday, December 16^th, the Spokane Fire Department responded to a reported warehouse fire at 2627 E. Trent Avenue. The first engine on scene reported a 60’ X 60’ metal warehouse with heavy smoke showing from an open overhead door. Multiple minor explosions were heard from inside the structure, which was reported to contain flammable gas cylinders. There was also tall rack storage of heavy commercial material and tools. Due to these hazards, and confirmation from employees that there was no one inside the structure, firefighters attacked the fire from the exterior. Thermal imaging cameras were used to determine the location of the fire, where siding was removed to extinguish the majority of fire. Crews will remain on scene throughout the night monitoring hot spots in an area of the warehouse unsafe to enter. There were no injuries to civilians or firefighters. The Spokane Police Department assisted with traffic control on busy Trent Avenue, and AMR provided a standby ambulance crew on scene.

Cause:
Fire investigators will be on scene in the morning to attempt to enter the area suspected to be the origin. At this time the cause of the fire does not appear to be suspicious.

Damage:
Damage was confined to an office/tool room in the warehouse, with heat, smoke and water damage to much of the contents of the remainder of the warehouse.

# Firefighters Responding: 41

Dollar Loss: $ 100,000

Other Agencies Responding:
Spokane Police Department,

End Of Release
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Wednesday, December 11, 2013

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Structure Fire

Incident #: 2013057815
Date of Incident: 12/11/2013
Issuing Officer: Joel Fielder/Battalion Chief

Narrative:
At approximately 1:10 PM this afternoon, December 11, 2013 Spokane City Fire crews were dispatched to 2722 West Boone on a reported structure fire. Fire crews responding to this location reported seeing a column of smoke showing from several blocks away. The first unit on scene reported heavy fire showing from the northeast corner of a single story, wood framed structure with smoke showing from the eaves. The home was later identified as a 1-1/2 story structure with fire extending into the attic on the north and east side. The first engine arriving on scene initiated an aggressive interior attack confining the fire to a bedroom at the back of the home while a second fire crew attacked the fire in the upstairs bedroom. Additional fire crews on scene completed search, vertical ventilation and salvage and overhaul. The fire was brought under control within 30 minutes. There were no injuries to any civilians, one firefighter suffered a knee injury and was transported to a local hospital for examination. Fire crews remained on scene for several hours completing overhaul and assisting in the investigation process. Avista gas and electric crews arrived on scene and removed hazards as needed. The house was found to be vacant and unsecured however neighbors did report seeing 2 individuals staying within the home the last several days.

Cause:
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the Spokane Fire Departments Special Investigation Unit.

Damage:
There was heavy fire damage to a bedroom and bathroom on the north side of the structure on the main floor, fire damage in the attic and heat and smoke damage throughout the rest of the structure.

# Firefighters Responding: 32

Dollar Loss: $ 40000

Other Agencies Responding:
Avista

End Of Release
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Tuesday, December 10, 2013

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North Side House Fire

Incident #: 2013057570
Date of Incident: 12/09/2013
Issuing Officer: Battalion Chief Jones

Narrative:
On 12/09/2013 at 01:25 hours, the Spokane Fire Department responded 5 engines, 2 ladders, 1 rescue, and 2 battalion chiefs to a reported structure fire at 2004 W Gordon. First arriving SE13 reported smoke showing from the windows on Alpha and Delta sides. After ensuring all occupants were evacuated from the structure, SE13 took a fire attack hose lead into the structure to locate and extinguish the fire. The fire was located in the basement on side Delta. SE13 and SE16 were successful in knocking down the fire and containing the fire to that area of the structure. SL4, SL2 and SE3 assisted the fire attack efforts by pulling ceiling to expose any areas where fire may have extended. There were no injuries to civilians or Firefighters on this response.

Cause:
This fire is under investigation by the Spokane Fire Departments SIU

Damage:
Fire damage to 2 bedrooms, smoke damage throughout the home

# Firefighters Responding: 25

Dollar Loss: $ 40,000

Other Agencies Responding:
AMR

End Of Release
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Saturday, December 7, 2013

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

Retirement Community Fire

Incident #: 2013057036
Date of Incident: 12/07/2013
Issuing Officer: AC Schaeffer

Narrative:
On Saturday, December 7, 2013 at 07:36 AM, an automatic fire alarm was received from 2929 South Waterford, Touchmark on South Hill. As the incident was being dispatched, the Communications Center received information that smoke was visible on the first and second floors. The incident was upgraded to a full alarm and added 4 Engines, 2 Ladders and a Heavy Rescue under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Donahoe and Moline. The first fire company arrived within minutes from nearby Station 11 and reported smoke showing from the eves and second and third floors visible from the Pittsburg side.

First arriving firefighters sprinted into action by raising aerial ladders to assist those potentially in need and deployed handlines to aggressively attack the flames while performing a primary search. Additional firefighters were immediately summoned including all three of the CIty's Ladders, to assist battling the blaze as the incident was officially upgraded to a working fire.

The 499-unit apartment complex was in compliance with Fire Codes including hard wired smoke alarms, smoke-activated magnetic fire doors and automatic sprinklers in building area, all of which assisted in saving lives and preventing the spread of fire and smoke. This serves as a good reminder for all to never block open fire doors as this allows smoke and fire to travel and impede occupants from escaping in an emergency.

One unit was involved in fire in the wall and floor areas and smoke was present throughout the floors. Over 40 firefighters extinguished the blaze in just 35-minutes and there were no injuries. There were no security doors, window bars or obvious non-fire factors to impede the residents from exiting all of the floors.

Firefighters are remaining on scene for several hours, assisting the residents and building managers.

Cause:
The cause is under investigation and facility’s management has done a wonderful job at assisting the residents with temporary accommodations.

Damage:
The damage is limited to a wall and flooring on floor 1 and 2. Companies are still on-scene and residents will be able to reoccupy within the hour.

# Firefighters Responding: 40

End Of Release
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Friday, December 6, 2013

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

North Battalion House Fire

Incident #: 2013056850
Date of Incident: 12/06/2013
Issuing Officer: BC Dave Haworth

Narrative:
On Friday, December 6, at approx 8:30 AM, the Spokane Fire Department responded 2 ladders, 5 engines, 1 heavy rescue, and 2 battalion chiefs to a reported structure fire at 1503 E Rich. Neighbors had called in the fire and said they could see smoke and flames coming from the single story family residence. SE15, located in the Hillyard neighborhood, arrived and reported heavy smoke coming from the approx 1500 sq ft residence. After ensuring the occupants were out of the structure, SE15 advanced a preconnected hose to attack the fire, which was located in the basement. Later arriving crews were assigned to secure a water supply, provide openings to remove the smoke from the structure, and advance additional hoses. The fire was extinguished within 20 minutes and crews spent several hours removing burned materials and checking for hot spots. The tenents are being assisted by the Red Cross as their home is uninhabitable. Traffic control was provided SPD units who blocked nearby intersections.

Cause:
The cause of the fire in under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit.

Damage:
The basement was heavily damage with heat and smoke damage throughout the rest of the structure.

# Firefighters Responding: 26

Dollar Loss: $ 50000

Other Agencies Responding:
AMR, Avista, SPD, Red Cross

End Of Release
For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

Thursday, December 5, 2013

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

Electric Heater SAFETY!

Incident #:
Date of Incident: 12/05/2013
Issuing Officer: AC Schaeffer

Narrative:
The SFD, U.S. Fire Administration and the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) share these 12 critical tips for using portable electric heaters safely this season:

First… Read the manufacturer's instructions and warning labels before using your heater.

NEVER leave an operating heater unattended. Always unplug the heater when not in use.

Unplug the heater by pulling the plug straight from the outlet. Inspect the power cord regularly, and never use a heater with a damaged cord.

Check periodically for a secure plug/outlet fit. If the plug does not fit snugly into the outlet or if the plug becomes very hot, the outlet may need to be replaced. Check with a qualified electrician to replace the outlet.

NEVER use a power strip or extension cord to power your heater. Overheating of the power strip or extension cord can easily cause a fire.

Do not plug any other electrical device into the same outlet as your heater. Doing so can overheat the circuit and cause a fire.

String the included power cord above any rug or carpeting. Anything you place on top of a cord - including furniture, may damage it.

Keep combustible materials such as furniture, pillows, bedding, papers, clothes, curtains, paint, gas cans and matches at least three feet from all sides of the heater. Do not block the heater's air intake or outlet.

Unless the heater is designed for outdoor use or in bathrooms, do not use in damp or wet areas. Parts in the heater may be damaged by moisture.

Place the heater on a level, flat surface. Only use a heater on tabletops when specified by the manufacturer.

Heaters should be kept away from pets and children and never used in a child's room without constant adult presence.

Seniors, the disabled, those living alone or in student housing may be at increased risk due to careless or improper use of heaters. If you know someone in this risk category, please share this safety list and your concerns.

It is going to be extremely cold tonight Spokane--Stay warm, but safe!

Cause:
N/A

Damage:
N/A

End Of Release
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SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

Update on Vehicle Explosion

Incident #: 2013035105
Date of Incident: 08/04/2013
Issuing Officer: AC Schaeffer

Narrative:
This Media Release serves as the official update to the traumatic vehicle explosion that occured on August 4, 2013. The Spokane County Prosecutors Office has filed formal charges against 27 year old Jacob W. Sayman for his alleged actions which Fire Investigators say were responsible for the vehicle Sayman was driving to explode. Sayman is charged with Assault of a Child 3^rd Degree and Manufacturing of a Controlled Substance. Both charges are Felonies. Additionally, there are aggravating circumstances in both charges which qualify for sentencing enhancements if Sayman is convicted. A date has been set to formally arraign Sayman on the charges.

Spokane Fire Department Investigators allege that the vehicle Sayman was driving exploded shortly after he had attempted to extract THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) from marihuana using a process in which Butane lighter fluid is used to extract THC from the marijuana plant materials. Investigators allege that Sayman drove to a smoke shop located at Garland and Wall where he purchased three canisters of butane lighter fluid. Investigators say that immediately after purchasing the butane, Sayman returned to his vehicle and attempted to produce a substance which is commonly referred to as “butane honey oil.” Fire investigators allege that Sayman placed marijuana into a homemade device made from a section of plastic pipe and then introduced butane lighter fluid into the device in an effort to extract THC from the marijuana. The attempt to extract the THC was conducted inside the vehicle.

SFD Fire Investigators confirmed that Sayman’s efforts to produce the marijuana derivative were undesirable and that Sayman became frustrated and set the device and materials aside within the vehicle and drove off. Additionally, they determined that as Sayman attempted to light a cigarette with a cigarette lighter, butane vapors that had accumulated in the vehicle ignited, causing a combustible vapor explosion. Sayman’s two-year old daughter was with Sayman when all of the events transpired. Both Sayman and the child sustained burn injuries as a result of the butane vapor explosion.

In the Butane Honey Oil making process, residual liquid from the vessel containing the butane soaked marijuana is collected and allowed to dry. What remains is a gooey substance which has been coined butane honey oil. The honey oil is a super strong marijuana derivative that can be smoked on its own or added to ordinary marijuana prior to being smoked.

Across the country, there have been similar incidents of explosions and/or fires attributed to the THC extraction process. There have been numerous documented cases where those explosions and fires have caused serious injuries to the individual engaged in the activity and to innocent bystanders; notwithstanding, significant property damage.

The Spokane Fire Department warns that Butane is HIGHLY explosive, colorless, odorless and heavier than air and therefore can travel along the floor until the butane vapors encounter an ignition source. The results of any ignition of accumulating or migrating butane vapors can cause serious burns, respiratory injury, traumatic injuries and/or death to anyone present or in close proximity to such explosions. Moreover, the Spokane County Prosecutor’s Office warns that persons who engage in the THC extraction process will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

Cause:
N/A

Damage:
N/A

End Of Release
For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

Wednesday, December 4, 2013

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

Cold Weather & Heart Disease

Incident #:
Date of Incident: 12/04/2013
Issuing Officer: AC Schaeffer

Narrative:

Winter is here, and it will bring cold temperatures, ice and snow this week. It’s important to know how cold weather can affect your heart, especially if you have cardiovascular disease. People who are outdoors in cold weather should avoid sudden exertion, like lifting a heavy shovel full of snow. Even walking through heavy, wet snow or snow drifts can strain a person's heart.

How does cold weather affect the heart?
Many people aren't conditioned to the physical stress of outdoor activities and don't know the dangers of being outdoors in cold weather. Winter sports enthusiasts who don't take certain precautions can suffer accidental hypothermia.

Hypothermia means the body temperature has fallen below 95 degrees Fahrenheit. It occurs when your body can't produce enough energy to keep the internal body temperature warm enough. It can kill you. Heart failure causes most deaths in hypothermia. Symptoms include lack of coordination, mental confusion, slowed reactions, shivering and sleepiness.

Children, the elderly and those with heart disease are at special risk. As people age, their ability to maintain a normal internal body temperature often decreases. Because elderly people seem to be relatively insensitive to moderately cold conditions, they can suffer hypothermia without knowing they're in danger. People with coronary heart disease often suffer angina pectoris (chest pain or discomfort) when they're in cold weather. Some studies suggest that harsh winter weather may increase a person's risk of heart attack due to overexertion.

Besides cold temperatures, high winds, snow and rain also can steal body heat. Wind is especially dangerous, because it removes the layer of heated air from around your body. At 30 degrees Fahrenheit in a 30-mile wind, the cooling effect is equal to 15 degrees Fahrenheit. Similarly, dampness causes the body to lose heat faster than it would at the same temperature in drier conditions. To keep warm, wear layers of clothing. This traps air between layers, forming a protective insulation. Also, wear a hat, hood or scarf. Heat can be lost through your head the quickest of all areas.

Have a heart-safe winter and remember to call 911 for acute, heart-related illnesses such as strokes, chest pain or hypertension. Don't wait, call as soon as the symptoms appear.

Cause:
N/A

Damage:
N/A

End Of Release
For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

Monday, December 2, 2013

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

Structure Fire

Incident #: 2013056161
Date of Incident: 12/02/2013
Issuing Officer: Joel Fielder/Battalion Chief

Narrative:
At approximately 5:20 AM this morning, December 2, 2013 Spokane City Fire crews were dispatched to 2510 North Denver on a reported structure fire. Fire crews responding to this location reported smoke and fire showing from several blocks away. The first crew on scene reported heavy fire showing from the east end of a duplex at the car port with fire extending into the living space to the west. They attacked the fire in the car-port on the east end of the building and protected an exposure building to the south. A second fire attack crew aggressively attacked the fire from the interior confining the fire to the one duplex. Additional fire crews on scene completed search, vertical ventilation and salvage and overhaul. The fire was brought under control within 20 minutes. There were no injuries to any civilians or firefighters and fire crews remained on scene for several hours completing overhaul and assisting in the investigation process. Avista gas and electric crews arrived on scene and removed hazards as needed and Spokane Police assisted with traffic control. The 2-adult occupants of the duplex are currently being assisted by our local chapter of the American Red Cross.

Cause:
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the Spokane Fire Departments Special Investigation Unit.

Damage:
There was heavy fire damage to the kitchen, attic and carport of the east duplex with smoke damage throughout the structure.

# Firefighters Responding: 23

Dollar Loss: $ 45,000

Other Agencies Responding:
Spokane Police Department, Avista, Red Cross

End Of Release
For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

South Battalion House Fire

Incident #: 2013056154
Date of Incident: 12/02/2013
Issuing Officer: BC Dave Haworth

Narrative:
On Monday, December 02, 2013, shortly before 4:00 AM, the Spokane Fire Department responded 5 engines, 2 ladders, 1 heavy rescue, and 2 battalion chiefs to a reported structure fire at 717 N Stone. The fire was first reported by a newspaper carrier and was confirmed by SPD officers who were patrolling in the area. The first arriving SFD unit, SE7, reported fire coming from the roof area of a wood constructed one story residence. Engine 7 advanced a preconnect hose to attack the fire while other crews were assigned to gain access, search the structure, connect a hydrant supply line, and advance additional hoses. It was determined that the structure was being used as an office for a business and not as a residence. The fire was extinguished within 60 minutes and crews remained on-scene for several hours extinguishing hot spots. There were no injuries to civilians and one firefighter was transported to SHMC for a knee injury.

Cause:
The fire is under investigation by SFD investigators.

Damage:
The structure is a total loss

# Firefighters Responding: 26

Dollar Loss: $ $65000

Other Agencies Responding:
SPD, Avista

End Of Release
For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

SFD News and Information

Sunday, December 29, 2013

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

Saturday, December 21, 2013

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

Friday, December 20, 2013

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

Tuesday, December 17, 2013

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

Wednesday, December 11, 2013

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Tuesday, December 10, 2013

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Saturday, December 7, 2013

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Friday, December 6, 2013

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Thursday, December 5, 2013

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SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

Wednesday, December 4, 2013

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Monday, December 2, 2013

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SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

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