Donating the painting, 'Fire,' to the St. Cloud Fire Rescue, May 13, 2009.

It was at least 13 years ago -  maybe even 14 at this point - that I was chosen to design and illustrate a new crest/logo for the St. Cloud Fire Rescue Department.  I was nearing the end of my years at St. Cloud High School and was more than pleased to be given the opportunity to give a little something back to my community.  I got to spend some time with the firemen and women as they showed me around their station and talked to me about what they’d like their logo to look like.

It was fun and interesting and I really enjoyed the work and the outcome. I fondly remember the experience and the people involved. The logo was, and still is, used on all the Department’s vehicles and uniforms.  I have always been proud of that work and amazing opportunity that it was for a young and aspiring artist.

Fast forward to the present - after thousands of miles of moves and travel and life - and I find myself, (and my family, now,) nearby to St. Cloud.  The idea to reprise my role of artist to the St. Cloud Fire Rescue Department came to me a few years ago, after moving back to the states and settling in.  However, it was only near the end of 2008, that I was finally in a position to do something that matched my vision.  And so, I contacted the Department and they welcomed me back.  I can’t imagine a more deserving group of men and women.  I only wish I could do more than just a painting.  I wanted show my appreciation for my hometown heroes and all Fire Rescue workers and to reconnect to the community in which I grew up.  I hope I have done so; that my painting can offer a little something special to those men and women that work so hard in my hometown.  Whatever meaning it may have to those who glance at it as they go to work, I hope they know that I painted it for them with respect and admiration.  It was an honor to present my work them.

St. Cloud Fire Rescue logo