The "most memorable call" question I asked got a very long answer, so I'll summarize: Genoa worked the helicopter landing zone for a medical aid in the demo forest. At some point, the landing zone was moved and the pilot offered to let Genoa ride along to the new location. Once there, everything went well, but she had no ride home as the volunteer engine hadn't been sent to the new landing zone, and the paid engine had no empty seats. Fortunately, a ranger was able to get her back to Burrell Station and her car, and she got a nice tour of the demo forest in the bargain. She says "The coolest part was definitely the helicopter ride! It was my childhood dream coming true getting to fly over the Santa Cruz Mountains and it was my lucky day that I had brought a camera along, otherwise, I don't think anyone would believe my story."

What keeps Genoa going with the department is the chance to support her neighbors and being a part of the volunteer fire family. And she's right, we are a family. We look out for each other, and work together well. It's hard not to appreciate that. In addition, Genoa tells me that working with the department is a great way to spend her free time. Not that she has much free time to spend, mind you. She's taking classes at a local junior college with a plan to go into travel nursing, does a lot of traveling, particularly to South American destinations where she can keep her Spanish and dance skills up to date.

With her warm and friendly personality, Genoa is great to have on the team. She goes to any kind of call, pulls her weight, and lightens everyone's mood in the process. If you meet her, you'll see what I mean.