LAKE PILLSBURY — A California Shock Trauma Air Rescue (CALSTAR) flight crew made a special “fly-in” Saturday for the Lake Pillsbury Volunteer Fire Department chili cook-off, dance and horseshoe tournament.
Pilot Tim Kolysko and Critical Care Nurses Steven Rogge and Ken McCurry made the flight from their base in Ukiah and spent nearly two hours as a way to show support for the remote volunteer fire department.
A large crowd attended the all-day event, which included dancing until 10 p.m.
CALSTAR Regional Director Deborah Pardee said the organization participates in these types of events as often as possible.
“These rural fire departments make such a huge difference in the lives of folks who find themselves in some type of trouble,” Pardee said. “They are the first responders and have a huge responsibility. We are more than happy to support them in any way possible.”
Pardee said CALSTAR is frequently called to the area, mostly because of its remoteness.
“It”s an hour-and-a-half drive by ground ambulance to the nearest medical facility,” she said. “If someone has a serious medical issue we can have them to the appropriate medical facility within minutes.”
