Long Beach Casting Club

The Long Beach Casting Club was severely damaged Sunday afternoon by a fire
that seems to have started in the southwest corner of the building, near the
fireplace. The cause and origin of the fire is still unknown and is under
investigation.


Firefighters responded to reports of smoke coming from the clubhouse at
about 4 p.m., according to a Long Beach Fire Department spokesman, and in
about five minutes contained the blaze in the entrance hall. Apparently
people at the adjacent dog park spotted smoke and called the fire
department. Meantime, the building's security alarm service notified Board
member Frank Kropacek who immediately came to investigate, and the fire
department notified past-president Stan Holden who also responded.

The office and kitchen had minimal damage, however there is considerable
smoke damage throughout the structure, including the meeting room.


Rick Hilles, club president, said that the insurance company had been
notified. He was also looking for a nearby venue to hold the December board
meeting. He also stated that "The Club has every intention to restore the
property to its original condition," and will form a task group to secure
the salvageable building contents, identify a reconstruction team, determine
the financial impact and identify and track sources of help and support.

Since the building is not usable, all fly tying classes and other clubhouse
activities are cancelled until further notice.


The facility has been home to the Long Beach Casting Club since 1925.