911 painting travels to Fallbrook

FALLBROOK – The "Traveling 911 Memorial Painting"by Carlsbad artist Kelly Lucas was delivered to local firefighters at the North County Fire Protection District's administration building, Feb. 5.

Over the last four years, the painting has traveled to and been on display at other San Diego County fire departments and will be on display for the public to see for the next three months at NCFPD, 330 South Main Ave.

Lucas was commissioned to paint and deliver her painting to Ground Zero in New York to be auctioned off to raise money for the families of the fallen firefighters. It was purchased for over $26,000 by a restaurateur who said when he hung it in his restaurant it made people too sad, so he returned it to the artist, yet still pleased with his donation.

Years later, Lucas organized a fundraising event for Wounded Warriors in Encinitas. This time the painting was purchased by Wendy Moldow, a local Realtor. Moldow knew this very special work of art did not belong in her home and deserved to be shared. Thus the idea of the “Journey of the Traveling 911 Memorial Painting” began.

It has already been hosted by fire stations in Encinitas, Rancho Santa Fe, Solana Beach, Carlsbad, San Marcos, Vista, Oceanside, Santee, Escondido, La Mesa, and even El Centro! And welcomed by city mayors, council members, first responders and their ever important staff members. They are allowed to choose how to display it, whether for the public or in their lunchroom, as it is simply there to honor them.

Submitted by North County Fire Protection District.