Carpe diem quam minimum credula postero
("seize the day, never trust the next")
SLAM DUNK!!!
That’s right – Slam Dunk! The TEAM would like to thank the following individuals who made the Informational Pickets of October 6th (150 members on the line) & 13th (100 members on the line) a GREAT SUCCESS:
The Citizens of St. Petersburg who stood-up for us in Council Chambers
Our Retired Local 747 Members
Our Friends and Family
Our Brother Firefighters from Lealman Fire Department
Our Brother Firefighters from Gulfport Fire Department
Our Brother Firefighters from Clearwater Fire Department
Our Brother Firefighters from Tampa Fire Department
Our Brother Police Officers from St. Petersburg Police Department
Pasco County Fire & Rescue
October 6 - Slam Dunk
Special thanks go out to the ‘SINGLE’ Fire District Chief and the ‘SINGLE’ Fire Captain on our department who stood tall and walked in SOLIDARITY with their Brothers and Sisters on the job. It’s a great feeling to WALK THE WALK with your Brothers and Sisters - knowing that you’re not leaving the chore to anyone else and that you’re leaving no-one behind. Maintaining your dues for these many years has been important and kept you connected, but attempts have been made to keep you separated from us at every corner, by the oppressor’s boot! Welcome back to the Bargaining Unit! You are helping to set the mark for our younger members.
Two more TITANS to add to the list that we walk with!
And speaking of younger members… You Guys Rock! The TEAM has never seen such a courageous display by so many up and coming future Union Leaders. We commented more than once that there was no ‘probie’ party looming that afternoon, but you guys were EVERYWHERE! You truly put-to-shame those who couldn't find the time or the guts to help make a better future for all of US!
October 13 - Slam Dunk II
With no good word from the city's negotiations team during the meeting of the previous day, impasse was declared by IAFF - LOCAL 747 - SPAFF. That being the case, emergency plans were implemented and the phone tree initiated. Members of our own Local as well as those from surrounding IAFF Affiliate Locals were informed of our decision to picket a second time on Thursday, October 13th (the next day). Wow! What a turnout. More than one hundred of our Firefighting Brothers & Sisters hit the pavement on short notice to drive home the point...
WE'VE BARGAINED IN GOOD FAITH WITH THE CITY FOR 588 DAYS-
IT HAS NOT BEEN - IT IS NOT NOW - AND IT WILL NOT BE ACCEPTABLE IN THE FUTURE-
TO IGNORE THE LONG TERM POLITICAL RAMIFICATIONS THAT CAN RESULT!
During our second informational picket of city hall, we are proud to report
additional 'TITAN' sightings!
Walking the Walk with their Brothers and Sisters -
Fire District Chief Mike Zamparelli, Fire Captain Joe Bruni,
Fire Captain Dean Adamides and Fire Captain Alan Rosetti.
"TITANS NEVER LOOK BACK!"
The TEAM isn't one for trite sayings, but this one may be the truest statement of all times...
"We must, indeed, all hang together or, most assuredly, we shall all hang separately."
- Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790)
Thanks, guys!
Here’s hoping to see you all in the sunshine on our next Informational Picket!
FTM
PTB&S
EGH
The TEAM
Received via email 8-16-2005 For the 240 members that weren't at the negotiations meeting today, the Fire admin spin on what happened today is this...
#1 Spin Attempt: "When we left the table, we told everyone that we were finished for the day." They forgot that it was announced as a "Break". Cell numbers were exchanged to enable the teams to keep in touch, to return. The City's recording secretary asked how long will we be gone? Oh.....
#2 Spin Attempt: "We called the union team and they refused to come beck to the table."
Us folks that were there know the answer!
FTM, PTB, EGH.
This is something that admin can't fathom. Keep it up guys and girls. You're doing things that I never thought I would ever see this Union do!
Received via email 8-17-05 I gotta tell ya, I have been on the job a while and that was a first for me. That meeting at the library opened my eyes quite a bit. From what our President told us after the "bookends and company" left, I believe we are on the right track. We need every one possible at this next one 'cause they are runnin' scared.
Received via email 8-20-05 After several month`s of union bashing by my District Chief "The Jeopardy Champion," I decided to see for myself what was going on. After the last meeting at the library, I saw a great representation of what is really going on. It is not the union dragging their feet - it is the city. They did not come back after the break to tell us anything. I would like to thank our team for having to deal with this type of crap for over 20 something sessions. Winnie, I am 100% behind you now. Bill and Jeff - good job. Lt. Kidwell - you should be commended for all the work you have done for us at the table and all the axe cases you make. You are a white shirt that is definitely one of us! Also one of your partners is probably working undercover for HQ.
TEAM Note: We thought this was one, darn good email. "White shirt" comment, aside... it was good. Remember - the color of your shirt doesn't dictate whether or not you qualify as a MUTT or FINO. Your ACTIONS are what determine whether or not you qualify. There are many Paid Professional Firefighters on this job that will never post here, yet MAINTAIN and DEMONSTRATE proper Values and Character on a daily basis. The TEAM believes this email writer had DEMONSTRATED those same requisite Values and Character to qualify him/her as a true TEAM MEMBER! You make the heavy lifting a little easier for all of us!
Received via email 8-23-05 Finally, someone will admit the real reason for opposing the shift rotation. The A & C shifts did not want to work more holidays. Plain and simple. All the crap about it violating the CBA, although true, was just colored bubbles. Which way did we think the A shift working union president was going to lean? The union didn't have a problem violating the CBA when we had to pick new R-Days. If I had to take an R-day other than the one I previously had, it would be in direct violation of the CBA. I think the issue is dead. We all know the reasons behind the fight, even if the A & C shifts don't want to admit it.
TEAM Note: This email was pulled from the Contact Us page and we thought it appropriate to place it here on the Contract page. Background information contained HERE.
Received via email 8-25-05 So who wrote the last comment about the shift rotation? If indeed it was a "B" shifter, you are right, the issue is dead--get over it. I am thinking maybe the publisher of the comment is probably a mutt trying to stir up some controversy. Stick together brothers and sisters-- their ship is sinking!!!!
Received via email 8-25-05 Regarding the comment made on 8-20-05 about a possible undercover officer for hq- could this be the same union dues paying officer that on one occasion stated he thought that there was no need for a union, then several months later actually was considering running for an elected top 3 position in the union????? Kind of makes you wonder what side of the fence this union dues paying member is on. Maybe this individual needs a little schooling on Values and Character and Teamwork, and a little less schooling on how to run the dept. one day!
Received via email 8-27-05 It may make you feel better to write me off as such, but like you, I'm someone who cares deeply about this department and union. The reason for my comment was to see where people stood on the issue. The name of the site is 'Us vs. Them'. Is there really an 'Us'? Or is it more likely, "'Us' as long as it doesn't adversely affect 'me'?" The TEAM has posted character traits that all of 'Us' should strive to live by. One, in particular, caught my eye. Fairness - Play by the rules • Take turns and share • Be open-minded; listen to others • Don’t take advantage of others • Don’t blame others carelessly. In relation to the shift swap issue, ask yourself, am I being fair, taking turns, being open minded or am I looking out for myself? I feel this issue goes to the root of what the union stands for. Fairness. In our line of work we strive on a daily basis to help people in need. Well, there is a minority in this department that needs your help. With the current set-up this minority has to work twice as many holidays as the majority. So ask yourself, do I want to be fair and shoulder some of the load or do I continue to look out for number one and take advantage of the situation? There has been a lot of talk about brotherhood and sisterhood lately, let's see some of it with this issue, not just around contract time.
Received via email 9-08-05 is it or is it not true that, per the constitution and by-laws, that the election is supposed to be held the first week of october? i understand a candidate's urge to get on with it and need to campaign, but why don't we leave all the mudslinging to the so-called "real politicians". some people may like this web-site or think of it as entertaining, but all the pointing fingers and trash talking gets old.
(Editor's Note: We're [I say WE, as several TEAM members kicked this one around on the phone this evening] trying to figure out what one has to do with the other. I guess the first part lies within the constitution and by-laws. As to the second part, if you don't like what's being printed here, either don't read it, or submit something that you think we should all read instead. It might strike you as the soup de jour, but Freedom of speech is protected here... yours included! Information of any sort that flows from only one source - isn't healthy.)
Received via email 9-09-05 You need to read a little more constitution and by laws-- that is for the 'annual' elections--- which would be station stewards--- There is a whole other section for elections of officers of the locals--- which is a two year term.
Received via email 9-09-05 first of all, i support our union wholeheartedly and i support our president. what i was trying to say is i feel that with the climate of our union, department, and city, that our presidents campaign letter was in poor taste.
Received via email 9-09-05 Our President's letter was something the, "them's" don't like... The truth. It's sad when some say leave it for the real politicians? Give me a break. Wanna talk about poor taste and hypocritical rhetoric, look at Big Rick's letter that came in the mail 9/9. This fellow is rationalizing everything he did as good! He may have felt he had the best interest of the local in mind, but excuse me - all his "I did this, I did that," well -- total bullshit. Example; anyone can host a state convention. I recall he did great things in the hospitality suite. As for his support in grievances? He never showed up at the few I had in the past. It was, "You don't really need me there do ya?" So, if you like butt kissing and cronyism bring back old Rick. There should be an uproar against this man. He is with the chief 5-6 days a week. I bet you could find him at the chief's Friday long lunch too. What do ya think? SEND IN YOUR VOTE. Keeping on the right track is more important that attempting to make people think the old times were good ones...
Received via email 9-09-05 Since when did telling the truth become poor taste? I thought there was a lot more that could/should have been said about our ex-president's new-found interest in the union. If he was so passionate about being union president why did he leave in the first place? Oh that's right he had that high dollar headquarters job lined up. Which also begs the question, how will senor Feinberg be able to fulfill the presidential duties when he's at headquarters everyday? Makes you wonder what the motivation is.
Received via email 9-09-05 It was definitely strong and to the point--- possibly out of character somewhat, but I to support our local and our current president. WE should not change our presidents in the middle of this important contract. I received a letter from the president's opponent today and wasn't too sure how to take all of it. I believe maybe the phone call he received was really from city administrations office asking who is this guy?? How come all of a sudden things aren't going the city's way??? Who does he think he is??? Our president has shown his abilities and I am sure he is the best choice by far in this election. Make sure everyone votes!!!!!!!
Received via email 9-09-05 Ya know what would be really, "keen"? We could really see just how much guts someone has. A debate! AM I silly , or what. I can see one side of the room all, white, and the other side black and blue.....What do you think?
Received via email 9-09-05 I wonder if the historic pension change mentioned in the letter from senior feinberg (the 3% multiplier for a 7% contribution on our part)(the same that most the rest of the county gets for less), is anywhere as historic as the recent union negotiated removal of the Social Security offset? The same one that we've waited for since 1972? Could this be one of the things that "a lot of individuals need to have done so they can move on with the planning for their retirement"?
Received via email 9-09-05 “You can enjoy a strong labor/management relationship and still disagree on certain issues.” I for one don’t think that a great labor/management relationship is largely incumbent upon ‘labor’ to suck it up and take it for us to call it a ‘great’ relationship. Great for some I’m sure… screw that!
“Grievances cost the local and the City a tremendous amount of money.” I’ve seen the books and we’ve got more money in the bank at this time than we’ve had during any previous administration! I can remember when we ordered the credit cards placed in the union hall safe because of our past president’s spending habits. Again… screw that!
“It is my belief that if we do not change the direction of our local, we will end up in the same position that our Brothers & Sisters are in, in Clearwater today.” May I be so bold as to ask what position that might be? They’ve managed to keep their heads held pretty high in spite of some upper management difficulties at both the fire administrative and city administrative levels. Am I to believe that our Brothers & Sisters are at fault for fighting, fighting, fighting? I for one am dedicated to the cause – well past the time that some of our MUTTS leave this job! THEY are the problem, not us! We’re PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS AND WE DO THE HEAVY WORK! For a man trying to convince us that he’s the guy for us – boy-oh-boy, that brown stuff in your mess kit isn't looking like Jimmy Dean sausages! I'll take scraps - but they'll be the scraps that WE fight for, not the scraps that someone throws at our feet!
“The ones that know me understand my position on the importance of the political process.” Well now… seems that there’s a certain Fire Dept. van that’s been seen making the rounds at the City Hall parking lot a tad more than it should. My guess is, you’re either working for us, or you’re actively working against us. Which is it? And let me say this... maybe you don't know all of your buddies on the Council as well as you think! It would seem that if one were politically well-connected, he’d fight OUR cause on OUR behalf, irregardless of whoever was in office. If you’re your Brother’s keeper, we should be on easy street! Noooooobody believes that story!
“If there was a year that we should have had a contract in place by October, this would have been the year!” I agree! But I choose to throw the blame on our own administration and the fact that we have a few too many ‘exempt’ management types (two of those individuals being in the DROP) being pressured by the fire chief, to hold up the process. Again… screw that!
“I had a recent conversation with a bargaining team member and he explained to me that the Union could justify a pay proposal that was on the table at the time of 8%, 8%, 7% over three years. Then several days later, the Union proposed a three year pay package of 6%, 5% and 4%. I am not sure what transpired over those several days to reduce our pay proposal.” You’re right – you obviously don’t know what transpired. If you’d been at the negotiations meeting, you’d know like the rest of us just why the proposal we made was changed. Notice I didn't say that we were taking ‘less’… but that there was a change and it was a change that would have resulted in a better overall package. I’ve said enough. It’s not my intention to sway anyone’s vote. It is however my intention to make it known that the best is yet to come! Oh and by the way... when management props-up any certain individual to be OUR labor leader - it's time to dig-in and fight for all you're worth!
TEAM Comment: Wow! We like this one, so much that we had it tattooed on all our chest's! Gals too!
Received via email 9-09-05 THE EMPORER HAS NO CLOTHES!
Received via email 9-11-05 Call me crazy-- but I just don't understand how a local can be run from headquarters- doesn't that sound funny?????? Rick's statement was made that "other dept's do it." Not with this many members and this many contracts! Senor Rick doesn't like the way this local is heading. I can't imagine why????? It is being done the right way!!! That is why.... also--- If Senor Rick did receive a phone call from a City Council member in October of 2004, why did he not immediately inform this so called council member of Pres. Newton, and assist in any way possible to arrange a meeting with these two? It would certainly help all of us!!!!! I think maybe the tides have finally turned on Senor Rick. He should just stick to his $100,000.00 plus - a year paycheck and stay as close the top people as he can. Rumor has it the next possible chief is building a house in the city. I never thought I would see a lieutenant promoted to a division chief until it happened years ago with an old union president. Could it happen again???
Received via email 9-11-05 in reference to the rumor that the bylaws say that bi-annual positions are elected annualy, its scary when someone cant read but wants to lead.
Received via email 9-11-05 Did senior forgot to include in his back slapping catagory the time he took a fellow firefighter to court to stop him from taking a promotional test?
Received via email 9-11-05 In response to the statement about being well established in the political arena. Don't forget to mention how much mileage we got from the dilapidated building we had shoved down our throats, to the tune of $30+ thousand dollars. Wouldn't all of those conections enabled us to be top dogs in the county in pay, pension, and benefits?
Received via email 9-11-05 Let us not forget the infamous motorcycle raffle. And the days of - "The chief and I talked it over, Here's your punishment."
Received via email 9-11-05 I just want to thank Winnie for the hard work he has done for all of us. I'm
sure there is a lot of people who would say the same thing, so next time you see him, tell him about the good job he is doing for ALL of US.
Received via email 9-28-05 How can you expect help at the bargaining table when your top Chief tells people that he can't justify what we have now. I wonder why he doesn't believe in his troops the way the Police Chief does. I see that Chief on the city channel quite often answering questions about the need for more officers,(patrol and community) and I also see the council members and the Mayor telling about how the police force has had an overage of the allowed force for a few years now. How come they can get help from their Chief? What gives J.K.?
Received via email 10-06-05 Well here is what I heard. I worked OT on "X" the shift. A certain Captain was saying a picket wouldn't help, and ya all shouldn't waste your time... Go figure.. He's related to "XX!"
Received via email 10-06-05 150+!!!!!! That's right, that's how many of your Brother's and Sister's (Active and Retired) as well as family members and supporters from other Departments and Professions showed up to let this city know that we are not willing to be floor mats for this Mayor any longer. 150+ members and supporters showed the citizens of this community that we will not falter, and we will no longer back down. 150+ members and supporters walked the line for over two hours in good weather and bad to prove that this Union is once again a SOLID organization and is not for sale to the lowest bidder. I hope that the Fire Fighters in Councilman Fosters District continually remind him of what he said today on the Channel 28 interview, "...the deal was over due" and "As long as we maintain a competitive force, a competitive contract, we'll be some of the tops in the county and perhaps the state." Let's make sure he never forgets his words. I would be remiss if I did not mention that there were also two individuals running for city office that were proud enough to walk on the line with "US". At least they realize that something is definitely wrong with the "THEMS" in this city. If you didn't get to see the event visit WFTS for the story.
Received via email 10-06-05 For those of you that missed it, here's the St. Pete Pravda article...
"Connors, though, said the comparison of firefighters and police officers ends at their duty to provide public safety services. For one, he said, police have a different work environment that can expose them to violence on a daily basis."
WHAT??? Remember, Brothers and Sisters... Every 88 hours, a Firefighter somewhere in this country loses his or her life on this job. It may not happen here today -- it may not happen here tomorrow -- but being instantly crushed by a wall or slowly dying from the complications of Hepatitis is no different than catching a friggin' bullet to the head!
"Firefighters work 24-hour shifts followed by 48 hours off, whereas police work more traditional shifts. Many firefighters hold second jobs as a result."
And his point is? We work a 52 hour week. If I choose to make the same salary as the mayor and it takes me another 30-40 hours a week to do it, who's the fool? Certainly not the taxpayer. I'm looking to work less and liver longer!
I've got news for you Mr. Connors - keep your nose out of my-off duty business and we'll get along, just fine as enemies!
Friggin' pencil pushin' City bureaucRATS! Mutts!
Received via email 10-06-05 Can you believe it? Only one A Shift Captain and one A Shift District Chief showed "US" what they are made of and what they believe in. I hope that the others have REALLY REALLY REALLY good excuses. Every one of "US" needs to ask everyone one of the no shows, What Happened? We really missed ya.
Received via email 10-08-05 I just saw the photos of the picket here on this site after being told about it by Sue XXXXXX. I somehow missed the photos the last time I visited. I gotta say I've never been more proud of you brothers and sisters in my entire 42 years as a fire fighter for the City of St. Petersburg. The visual professionalism is off the scale and the message is clear as crystal. You've made an old timer feel ashamed that he couldn't be there to support you in person. I again have my pride back in the members and leadership of this Local and it feels damn good. I know only one DC and one Captain showed up but God aren't we proud of them? Thanks guys for showing the integrity to be two of our best. And thanks to the leadership of the Local for having the skills and tenacity to make us heard. What a great job you're doing. I give you all the credit for bringing this Local to the unprecedented level it is today.
Dick Tully
Retired
TEAM Note: We can't thank you enough for the kind words, Brother Tully. In one paragraph, you have managed to sum-up the feelings that, we too have for our Local and it's imperative. And please don't apologize for not attending. Had this 'Freak Show' of a City Administration made a concerted effort in the past 584 days of negotiating to take care of it's PAID-PROFESSIONAL CAREER-SERVICE FIREFIGHTERS, perhaps we wouldn't need to hold informational pickets at such short notice! They seem to revel in making their Police Officers and Firefighters, GROVEL for ANYTHING that employees of other cities, seemingly take for granted.
10-08-05 Editor's Note: Your humble editor has been contacted by one of it's TEAM members and I've been asked to place a note on the Contract page. No less than the rest of us, he was concerned with the deplorable number of dues paying staff officers in attendance at Thursday's informational picket. He was afraid that the attendance (or lack there-of) didn't tell the whole story. One District Fire Chief that he'd (we all) hoped to see on the picket line with us, was 'MM'. As many of you are aware, he's the FPF 2nd District Vice President. As it turns out, he was attending to state association business that deals directly with the possibility of fire service consolidation in Pinellas County. The TEAM member that we spoke with, was in contact with 'MM', who stated that he would have been on the line with his Brothers and Sisters - had he not had a prior appointment. With that said, we've been promised that 'MM' WILL be in attendance, should we picket in the future!
Received via email 10-13-05 "promised that MM will be in attendance, should we picket in the future" Where was he this time (Thursday, October 13) ?
Received via email 10-16-05 Great turn out for both protest/pickets! You all make this 22 year man proud! It is an honor to march beside all of the brothers and sisters from Local 747 and other Locals & family members! It takes the edge off the BS the city is serving us for dinner. We need to continue to make ourselves visible to the public. Believe me - the GP doesn't know what we have been through! Maybe we can find a local spot where lots of TAX PAYING citizens are?? What do ya think? I sure hope our Local does not ENDORSE OLE RB! He has lied to us and the people of St Pete. I'd rather not endorse anyone than stand behind him. Fight the power, stand strong, don't give in to pressure. We make our own future Bro's & Sisters! See you on the next, "Thick RED Line!"-------
Received via email 10-17-05 sorry, your pres endorsed RB behind your back - you elected him..
Editor's Note: Me thinks you assume too much, my friend!
Received via email 10-18-05 Assumptions and inuendos are supposedly verified on this site. Did Winnie endorse him or not?
TEAM Note: We posted the earlier email of 10-17 with the foreknowledge that it was in fact, partially true. It was posted (we post them all) - knowing that it would no doubt, evoke the question. Your Union President did not act alone in the decision to back the incumbent. The Political Screening Committee as well as members of the Executive Committee were involved in the decision. We'd all like to see the likes of a Dick Greco step up to the plate and run for mayor in this town, but we all know that that hasn't happened as of yet. To back any political adversary of 'this' mayor at 'this' time, would be an effort in futility. We're no doubt, swallowing our pride in this decision, but backing an incumbent who'll almost assuredly win, seems to be the lesser of two evils. The Police Unions are in the same fix. To that end... calling 323-1786 is a pretty good solution to answering these questions too.
Received via email 10-18-05 AS much AS I respect WN, and the current administration of the local. I see a huge turd rolling down the steps of city hall right at us. B.S. is my answer to backing an incum bent-(over). WHY are we so scared of this 6'4" pile? Are we losing our spines? He has no soul for us, as sworn employees, we are just the poor ole middle class blue collars there for him, Hell, he even thinks we remodeled ST 4 for his personal ping-pong, kids play house. I have almost lost my meal when he shows up.. Buddy this - pal that. And who is the "political screening committee? Did any of you regular, dues paying members get asked to participate? I sure didn't! AM I pissed? Hell yes I am. It sucks that WN did this, It will come to bite us in the ass I'm sure. BTW, I'll be there to walk the picket line, do whatever p/r our local needs, but you will not see me on the Baker sign team. I'm sure RF is laughing his ass off as we speak..
TEAM Note: RF may well be laughing his ass off... but he does, knowing full well that he (we) did the very same thing in the past when we supported Dave Fischer in his re-election bid. He and his wife were both anti-Firefighter and it showed. As you might remember, Margo Fischer preceded Frank Farkas in House Seat 52, and actively worked against all Firefighters and Police Officers. You can read about her exploits for yourself at:http://www.sptimes.com/News/21299/Commentary/The_police_pension_ga.html
Received via email 10-18-05 Ahh...Strolling down memory lane again - lets relive the past again and again for the "Team" who suddenly has learned to backstroke.
Received via email 10-19-05 It's interesting that there's a feeling of necessity to back anyone. I know that we've been programmed by the IAFF and the PFFF to be politically involved. And under normal circumstances that is good advice. But in my humble opinion I think backing the asshole that said, and I quote this very page, "run the dogs until they drop" is about the dumbest thing we can do.
Why would any of us in our wildest imagination think that this guy gives a shit about any of us? Dogs? Dogs? How dare this scum sucking bottom feeder call us dogs? Political involvement is a two way street everywhere but in St. Petersburg. Winnie and the team have my support but I also would not support any or all attempts to endorse David Fisher. And I encourage the members of the Local to think long and hard about not endorsing him. It's a given that he's going to win anyway and there's nothing to be gained getting involved with his deception politics.
TEAM Note: Don't be too upset with the "run the dog's" commentary. If you'll go back to the top of this page and re-read - you'll note that it's not a direct quote. "St. Petersburg's mayor has ['in effect'] told the city's negotiating team to run the dogs..." "In effect" is the operative term. Fischer's not running this time - Baker is. We thought the "scum sucking bottome feeder" commentary was original, though! You can use it freely another time if you wish. ;>)
Received via email 10-19-05 Yes, I agree that RF is probably laughing his ass off right now. Why? Because of the way we have suddenly begun falling for trivial bits of information that are hitting the ears of our members, and the way we are second guessing decisions. If you want to know something -- its better to ask than to fume. Don't you remember, the candidate screenings have been discussed during the last two and possibly three monthly union meetings? Did you call to offer your time? There's not much that can be said.
Received via email 10-19-05 @ 1553 Please excuse my faux pas when referring to David Fisher. His was the last name I read on the post above me and it apparently stuck. Another influential item is that in my opinion both Fisher and Baker are from the same mold so the description accurately fits either of them. In fact the term SSBF would apply to almost any and all of the council too. Their silent agreement to what the mayor does is all you need to know about their attitude toward us. I apologize to the members for any confusion this may have caused.
Ed Note: No problemo on the confusion!
Received via email 10-19-05 @ 1558 I hope that guy doesn't live in the city because he'll be doing a write-in vote. He's probably misinformed like a lot of other members who don't go to the
meetings, volunteer for positions of office, volunteer their time to help do stuff politically or physically around the union office. First of all, Rick Baker is the mayor and is running for re-election. Not David Fisher. Why are you complaining??? That's my question. Are you involved? Do you contribute or just pay dues and expect the few that are always doing the work to do your part?
Think about it man, or woman. Do you know what our web address is? Do you know off hand the phone number of the union office, or do you always have to ask someone else. I know it. That is so I can call for my rep. to come to my aid when faced with a situation. They've be there for me the one time in over 24 years. Do you look at your station's union board much or the by-laws? Do you
understand them? There are lots of questions, but some people have all of the answers only to sound like complaints. Ask yourself. Are you a MUTT, complainer, or are you behind our organization?
Received via email 10-19-05 @ 1604 Those of you who are so fixated on RF will never have any room in their minds for progress because your head in too full of the past and there's no room for
the future.
Received via email 10-20-05 @ 0127 Hmmmmmm...Sounds like somebody needs a hug! Relax there brother and have another beer. I said I apologize for making a mistake. Get a grip. You make me laugh with your assessment of my character and your questions regarding my loyalty and integrity to this, and of this, Local. You have no
idea who you're berating but if it makes you feel better then have at it. I've been this Local's whipping boy long before you were old enough to be on the job so it's nothing new. I fail to see why you're so rabid about my making a mistake as to who's the mayor. And by the way I'm not complaining. I'm merely pointing out a fact that apparently is being ignored by you and others who would defend those in control of the city and that is that it's not necessary to endorse anyone in any race. Why waste time and money on politics right now when there's a more important issue and that's the fact that we're at impasse? I hope you have plans to involve yourself in helping the team in their presentation of facts to the special master. Based on your glowing description
of your past involvement I'm sure we can depend on you. In light of your apparent agitated state regarding my opinion of the mayor and others I can only surmise that it's YOU who is the mutt.
Received via email 10-20-05 @ 0618 Support of any organization is a good thing. BUT, when you blindly follow their choices, what are you then? A blind Mutt? A clueless yes-man/boy/girl? Think about it, if you can't complain about Baker, Feinberg, Newton, The "endorsements" shi- why even try and appear like your someone that gives a poo-poo?! Stand behind your organization, but for god sakes man, don't swallow all their crap! (fyi- I may not have made all the last 3 meetings, but I was on the picket line. I volunteered for the Political Candidate screening committee, but I guess my historic open mind had me out before the choices where made) So screw RB, he doesn't have my vote, and he surely does not have our (firefighters) backs..
Received via email 10-20-05 Can't we all just get along!!!! Lets focus on now and the future, forget about the past and what we did or he did a few years ago. The city loves to see tension within the brotherhood. There is more strength in unity.
Received via email 10-21-05 Is there any interest in having as many members as possible attend the "open" public meetings where the candidates are going to speak and respond to questions? It seems that would be a great way to direct some pertinent inquiries in regards to their intentions and attitudes toward firefighters. It would also give us an opportunity to ask direct questions even though we know we won't get a straight answer. The point is to keep us in the public eye and in the face of potential council members. Make a list of questions that make the candidate respond to our problems. Then attend every meeting possible and ask the same questions over and over. It's time for "in your face" tactics that generate exposure and commentary. Keep building up the tension so that the impasse hearings are something newsworthy. Make enough pressure so that the public is actually looking to see what the outcome is when we win. And we will win.
Received via email 10-21-05 It better be a great deal we have with the mayor when our union dues goes towards our endorsement of that b******d, that's all I have to say.
Received via email 10-21-05 All I can say after seeing the Local 747 endorsing that Bin Laden looking SOB, I hope my Union Dues was used in vain, and I hope there was a sweet deal was cut, if not!, I'll be giving myself a raise. I won't have to pay anymore Union Dues, now that would be a sweet deal behind my own doors. Hopeful wishing 1 year, 7%, 3.25 pension, and 25 years and out.
Received via email 10-21-05 To the Brother or Sister looking for greener pastures - had you attended the Union meeting last evening, you'd probably have a little different (less childish) outlook on things. The meeting was GREAT and I think, met or exceeded everyone's expectations as to just where we sit tactically and politically in both our city and in Pinellas County. By any stretch of the imagination - Winnie's not giving away information that would compromise our position, but he's getting better at the give & take thing. He realizes that an educated labor organization is one that's better prepared to fight at a moments notice. Last evening we were all educated as to where we sit in relation to all the politicians that affect our lives. Maybe more importantly, we learned how we can and will affect our current crop of politicians as their political careers evolve. It would seem to be a two-way street of 'needs'.
TEAM Note: Great post denoting some of the finer points of Thursday's Union meeting. These meetings are much better attended than in the past and are fact filled. Everyone who attends is setting aside one evening a month from their family life to better prepare for the upcoming fights that face us on numerous fronts. Politicians don't operate in a vacuum and neither do we. We're moving along parallel lines with one another and when the opportunity presents itself, they will try to align themselves with us. Yes... they'll seek 'us' out! When they're looking to get the job, they look to Firefighters and Law Enforcement Officers to build their case in the public's eye, that they can and should be trusted with public office. When they're up for reelection, they'll look to us again to help promote their message that again the voters should trust them with public office. And finally -- inevitably, when they look to further their political aspirations with notions of higher office, they look to 'us' to help grease the rails.
We haven't yet figured out who's using whom, but if you were at Thursday's meeting, you soon figured out that there's a long-term symbiotic relationship at work here, and both sides occasionally eat some crow! Like a wing?
Received via email 10-22-05 I'm either missing some hidden meaning or having smoke blown up my ass when I read some of the posts on this site. One Post states that "in effect" the MAYOR (Rick Baker) has "told the city's negotiating team to run the dogs (us) until they drop!" If I'm to believe this is an accurate description of the mayor's attitude toward the fire service then why is it the fire service is ENDORSING HIM??? Is the mayor going to have an epiphany and suddenly change his mind? We've gone for around ten or twelve years dealing with mayors who think we're a bunch of low life scum who suck money out of the city. We've been screwed by them at every turn. And yet we're to believe that endorsing their political aspirations will somehow pay us a dividend. You heard it first here; it's not gonna happen in your lifetime. I again quote the most recent post; "Yes... I'm either missing some hidden meaning or having smoke blown up my ass they'll seek 'us' out!" Ah yes they will and then, if and when they get elected, they’ll act like they don't know us. Political action only works if you have that "two way street". Unfortunately in this city that never seems to happen. Instead of voicing support for their firefighters the council members do the best they can to disassociate themselves from us. Do you think going all this time without a contract is because they all WANT us to have a raise? If that's the case why don't they just speak up. After all we must have supported a couple of them politically. Now they're ashamed to be on our side. This is why political action is only good when it's reciprocal for both parties. But in St. Petersburg we do the work. They get elected. We get shit on. That's NOT how it's supposed to work. No one knows better than I that being active politically is an important tool in our arsenal. Don't misunderstand. I truly wish I could have been at the meeting Thursday evening to hear the justification for endorsing the current mayor. I'm sure it was enlightening. I have a question about that. Just what position is it that WN is not compromising by "not giving away information"? Is there some new position that we're taking that is totally different from the one we've assumed for two years now? Are we getting ready to spring some devastating facts on TV that will have the public support us? Just what position is it that we're not willing to compromise because as far as I can see the language, figures, and justification for our position has been on display for a very long time. Is there a new position? And what might it be? I sure hope whatever the big secret is lives up to the hype. I can't wait. And just one last thing. It seems that we've been told for so long now that political involvement is the way to win improvements in our contracts that we can't seem to stop long enough to make a determination as to where and when it has been beneficial to us. It's been working for them, the politicians, but not for us. I hate to think what message we're sending when we picket city hall and then turn around a week later and politically endorse the very people who we're picketing. No endorsement would send a stronger message. Don't you agree?
Received via email 10-24-05 To the point post....I agree pretty much to all of the things you stated. Being political is a must! Sleeping with the enemy? Hell no. I don't care what RB told Newton, feinberg, or G-O-D! He is a lawyer, a land grabber, "read my lipps" kind of partisian politician. He is a loser of the biggest type. I wish we had the balls to endorse The other guy, ED HELM, at least he was out in the rain with us during the picket. (He is a family that has fire department in their blood, not just blood money like the current city grand poobah!) Did Baker even stick his narrow head out the doors to say I don't agree with what your doing, but more power to you?! Is it too late to say, hey we made a mistake, RB lied to us, and you the city tax payers. It is never too late to make use of that spine a lot of you have in reserve. Sorry, but I will not plant a single sign,(RB) stand on the same stage as RB. He is the poster of bad taste. He is not one of us. I vent, there fore I am...
Received via email 10-24-05 How about a vote of confidence of the Mayor, and ...administration? Shall we start here? CITY ADMIN-NO-NONE- Council-still out on them- yes, & no's. Fire ADMIN-#1-NONE-#2 WAY NONE-#3- NONE-#4 YES, (there is always one, you go JW) #5-NO its not a training day, (or their version, lets take out as many old timers as we can at drills! get up, get up! WHat no light, no rescue, who set that circus up anyway!??) everyday NO-NO.
Your turn..
Received via email 10-24-05 I am wondering. Our administration was backing F****urg (he's white) hard to re-elect.??? The city's negotiation board stalled and waited for the outcome of the union elections between F****urg (he's white) and Winnie (he's African American). I've got a feeling something is not right here. Why are they not working with Winnie? How come our own Chief has not come to his Firefighters aid -- especially on the comment that that St. Pete Times -sshole made about our firefighters. There is a time when a gasket will blow like a shot-un and those near it will take a hit. Winnie fight them hard.
Editor's Note: Someone help me. Please!
Received via email 10-25-05 I can not believe we are at a black or white thing. Rosa Parks died - let it rest. As far as training, one guy fell out. The same guy that falls out at every drill as I am told. Why don't he work out instead of sitting on is Celtic a** at #2. I heard that no old timers fell out. If they can't do the drill during training. What makes you think they can do it to save your a** when the time comes?
Editor's Note: Wow... you got more mileage out of the last email that I did!
Received via email 10-26-05 I am totally confused!!!!!
TEAM Note: We continue to receive emails that are directed towards this page that have absolutely nothing to do with our current contract. If you are one of the one's wondering why your email hasn't made it to the Contract page, it's because it belongs somewhere else. If you do wish to engage other parties as it pertains to training or other such madness, please ship it to the correct page. Not to be too critical, but puleeease take a deep breath -- copy and paste from your word processing program and MAKE YOUR THOUGHTS GOGENT!
Received via email 10-28-05 It has been a week or so since the union meeting, and the news from RB's meeting with Winnie to hold off on Impasse papers. ANY news, ideas, RUMORS? I'd like to know. About the other post and vote of confidence. A big NO down the line from here.
Received via email 11-2-05 PISSED OFF YET? Hell yeah A full page ad of Baker Support?? Are we really scared to take a stand against him? I think I lost my meal. And in my mailbox a vote for $$ to protest. picket, etc.? Hell yes I will vote for that one, but the officials better hold RB accountable for his sugar covered BS regarding Don't go to impasse yet! I promise. Sort of reminds me of a "read my lips" politician.. So when is the next Picket? Will we call RB out if nothing is done before the election next week? Inquireing minds MUST KNOW! -(Still not voting for RB)
Received via email 11-2-05 All I can say as a member, for God's sake this better be worth it for all the members. Shit will hit the fan like no human in life time.
Editor: Eh... we did the same thing with the last sap. Lesser of two evils, I guess...
Received via email 11-3-05 Please see the next to the last sentence in the post of 10/22/05.
Received via email 11-3-05 Coincidence? RB buys time by "reworking the numbers". The election is Tuesday
November 8th. Coincidence? We fell for another one, Charlie Brown.
Received via email 11-4-05 RB is a politician. He is stonewalling until the election is over. We have already supported him with the full page ad. He is going to comeback with the same 3% line. Question--- When does impasse mean impasse? We have messed around for the last couple of weeks and now you want us to hold signs. What gives Winnie? Tell us something to give us some hope except the old "RB needs more time"
Received via email 11-4-05 I thought we as Firefighter/Titans, were trained to stay COOL during STRESSFUL sitations? To work TOGETHER in STRESSFUL sitations?? No matter what happens??? STAY TOGETHER FOR EACH OTHER!!!!!!!! SHIT HAS ALREADY HIT THE FAN!!!!! ARE YOU WILLING TO STILL GET DIRTY???? I'M still "THERE" for YOU and YOURS. Are YOU "THERE" for ME and MINE?????????????
Received via email 11-4-05 If we're all willing to take it in the shorts for Winnie at least, we can at
least use our Union dues as our raises. What's the title of that book?....America Burning or is it St. Petersburg Burning? Scary isn't it? It could happen to a city near you.
Received via email 11-5-05 If Rick Baker is not going to get this ******* deal done in good faith, lets get the ******* paperwork to impasse file immediately if not sooner. Damn idiots
Received via email 11-7-05 On Wednesday morning I want each and every member of this union to have a copy of the editorial on the “home” page of this website in their hand. Read it, and then read it again. Mark your calendars and start counting the days that will pass before we see the results of our endorsement. Hold off on your assessment of Rick Baker’s lack of moral acumen and support
Winnie’s good faith attempt to give him the opportunity to grow a pair and be a man of his word. For what it’s worth.
Here are what I consider the two most important influences on the “new” mayor that will work against us now that he’s entrenched at city hall again. First it’s gonna be business as usual because he will construe the number of votes as a mandate from the good citizens of St. Petersburg to continue his past activities. Second he’s now a lame duck mayor who can’t run again in four years. I think we’ve seen the results of that same position in certain boneheads in Washington. I predict he’ll run roughshod over us and our families in his quest to fulfill all the promises made to those with interests in other areas. In my opinion he just has a mean streak and likes to show off to his friends by bullying those who can’t do anything about it. Combine the two and hang onto your ass. What has he got to lose?
He didn’t get elected he got “shooed in”. I appreciate the fact that the opposing candidate in the race was on the picket line with us and that he has a “firefighting background”. I’m sure he’s a fine fellow but the fact is he never had a prayer of winning the race. We all knew that. No surprise there. This also was a large factor in Winnie’s decision to “endorse” Baker. Since the early seventies we’ve been mentally saturated by the International with the term “politically active”. We’ve had that drummed into us over and over and never took the time to see if it was producing results. As I’ve said before I believe wholeheartedly in political activities when they work. And they only work if you have support from the public. That’s right, the public. After all they are collectively the ones who do the voting. And if you want them to vote for your candidate you better have them on your side. Their concern for you is what makes them respond to your “endorsement” in elections. Endorsing in the city of St. Petersburg merely means continually throwing our “support” for a candidate in front of a public that doesn’t give a damn about us. Have we ever reaped any major benefits from this political exercise in futility? I’m not talking about
some “lip service” from some spineless council flake who wants to look good. I’m talking about some real, actual results that can be directly attributed to our political activities. Please enlighten me with facts and name names. In the meantime keep that editorial in your pocket and start counting.
Fraternally,
Dick Tully
Received via email 11-7-05 I decided to look up some statistics to back up my last post in relation to Baker’s election. I know opinions can be skewed by past experiences and prejudices so I wanted to at least provide some Sembler…uh, semblance of reasoning for my post.
Here’s are some quotes from the St. Petersburg Times which are admittedly out of context but are factual:
“There's nothing wrong with a corporation backing whomever it chooses. But in a small election where a candidate's total coffer is typically around $10,000, winning the blessing of the Semblers can give a candidate a formidable edge. Baker also collected a flurry of final contributions, receiving $37,187. He also loaned his campaign $2,500, bringing his total to $189,370.”
Here we have a candidate who has amassed a $189,000.00 war chest to get elected to a lame duck position in a city of 250,000. Think about that for a while. Maybe you’ll come to the same conclusion I did. Here’s some more:
“The Semblers, their wives and Craig Sher, the chief executive officer of the Sembler Co., have donated $3,500 to [Rick Baker] so far, not including an additional $600 for table rental and food for a September fundraiser. [Jeff Danner] received $250 from [Jeff Fuqua], plus $1,000 from the Semblers and Sher. Neither Sher nor the Semblers will lend their support with votes on election
day. According to property records, none lives within St. Petersburg's city limits.” (my underline)
Seems the Semblers are covering all the bases. And this isn’t just my take on it. Here’s what Craig Sher,the Sembler’s CEO, had to say about it:
"We see no reason for change," Sher said. "We have nothing against the opponents. We just like the incumbents."
And then there’s this:
“In 2001, Baker ran on a simple four-pronged platform dubbed the Baker Plan: Improving schools, neighborhoods, public safety and economic development.”
I think we need to put the Baker plan in a closer to the truth proper order using his four platform examples:
1. Economic Development (Whose economic development?)
2. Neighborhoods (Where is my vote coming from next time?)
3. Schools (Everyone likes kids)
4. Public Safety (The cops are investigating crime and there’s nothing burning so what’s the problem? )
By the way, who did the cops endorse? Or did they endorse anyone? Don’t hear much about them now that they’re fat and happy.
Finally there’s this little quote that if nothing else should tell you how the council feels about what the mayor does:
“St. Petersburg is loaded with politicians aspiring to higher office, and all opted to take a pass against Baker. When City Council candidates met with the St. Petersburg Times editorial board recently, the general difference of opinion was whether Baker was doing a great job or good job.”
So there you have it or at least a start on what we’re up against. Old fire department quote: “Money talks and bullshit walks”. Never been truer than in the city of St. Petersburg. We have a city where the mayor throws employees under the bus and the council squeals and applauds when he does it. He’s doing a “Great Job”. And we endorsed this guy. And now we need to work on damage control because that’s all that’s left.
Fraternally,
Dick Tully
I may be gone but you aren’t gonna forget me !!!
Received via email 11-11-05 WHEN DO WE PICKET AGAIN... CITY HALL IS STILL PRETTY QUIET. WHAT? A CERTAIN A SHIFTER HAD THE CHANCE TO SEE RB BEFORE THE ELECTION AT THEIR CHURCH. AFTER RB'S SERMON..LOL HAS ASKED HIM WHAT WOULD IT TAKE TO GET A CONTRACT? RB SAID YOU KNOW THAT 3% WILL GET YOU ALL ON TOP IN THE COUNTY... WHY DIDNT WE FIGHT HIM HARDER?> WHY AREN'T WE NOW? SEEING ALL THOSE, "GOODFELLAS" IN THE BACKGROUND AT RB'S ELECTION NIGHT GALA, WELL THE ENEMY WAS ALL THERE. SOME OF THEM WERE HAVING TROUBLE STANDING UP,(HICK) STRAIGHT... FTM
Editor's Note: I can't speak for our Union President, but we 'are' fighting - right now! Please don't hold me to this, but by the next Union meeting, some strategies previously unseen in this Local may become apparent to you. Continue to (K)eep (T)he (F)aith and know that when properly empowered, we are the masters of our own destiny. We are the makers of our own fate. Let's not become our own worst enemy - let's become theirs! You know as well as I, that these bastards never gave us anything that we didn't fight for. What we want is in the city coffers. What they want... only we can provide.
Received via email 11-12-05 If we somewhat declared impasse. How come there is a negotiating meeting scheduled for the 23rd? What gives? Same old smoke being blown up someones a**. It seems like WN is just like RF. Keeping quiet and not telling anybody anything.
Received via email 11-12-05 Ok so don't speak for him...give us a hint would ya! I'll be on duty next union meeting!!!!!!trying to K.T.F
Editor's Note: The information that I got was very broad in nature, but then - I read between the lines a lot. Give him a call and ask the question! KTF
Received via email 11-14-05 Winnie had better have a very good reason for this dancing we're doing with the city right now or the shit will hit the fan like you've never seen it. Hate to be negative all the time. Hard to find anything positive sometimes. Winnie has got to show his hand (assuming he has something to show) or the members will lose all confidence in him completely. Now isn't the time to make comparisons or to point out past situations. It's also not the time to let the petty bullshit at headquarters divert your attention. The drunks will still be drunk when the dust settles from the important stuff. There are questions to be answered that are far more important than some alkys and ass kissers from the front office.
1. What is the next step to educate the public in a manner they understand about the value of a fire service?
2. What is the next step if the city continues to stonewall like they have in the past?
3. What is the next step being taken to educate the new members of council? (You know they'll get brainwashed)
4. Do we have the balls to employ any of the few options left to us to force the city to bargain with us?
5. What are the options left to us to accomplish a contract we can ratify?
After all as long as we keep agreeing to meetings and making little concessions away from the bargaining table the longer it's gonna take to get an agreement. I like Winnie and I want to see him be successful in this but he has to tell the members what it is that he intends to do. The Feinberg Handbook says to keep blowing smoke up the ass of your constituents in order to make them think you have a secret weapon of some sort you're about to unleash. This tactic will get you nowhere at this point in time since all the cards have supposedly been played. The members deserve to know what the plan is so that they can support it. If Winnie is uncertain about his intentions then he should air them and see what happens. At least he'd have some feedback. But to the majority right now it appears that there's no surprises left in his bag of tricks. The time for negotiating is over. The only thing left is the process outlined by PERC or whoever does that stuff now. Focus on the parameters set down in the law and use them. Noise will only get you so much. Education must be the end result. I used to say I only needed to educate and influence seven people in the whole city of
a quarter million. And it's still true today. Except there's more of them. What if after these next meetings, which actually do sound promising a little bit, there's no movement? Are you gonna strike? Are you gonna have a sick-in? How about some more picketing? All this will do is further infuriate the public against you since they don't care about you anyway. Educating them, which is beyond comprehension, is out of the question. Pissing them off won't produce the results we want. So since we can't educated them and we don't want to anger them what's left? Ignore them. They have absolutely no value in the process. There are only two things we have left to us to gain a contract. Educate the council and follow the steps outlined in the law. Everything else is just what it says at the top; BULLSHIT. FTM/KTF
Received via email 11-14-05 To the post above, do you really have to know every tactic? Every move and direction up to the second it's going to happen?... Are YOU a mutt? A "Spoon"? Stir s***?.... If you knew anything 'they' would know. KTF ALWAYS!!!!
Received via email 11-14-05 Here here! I haven't heard it put any better than the 11-14 post. Thanks to whomever that was...
Received via email 11-16-05 I finally made my way to the site. Extemporaneous reaction: Wow! It took a bit of reading, but it was worth it. And YES... we need to set a new course and NOT continue business as usual! We need to break from the tired-traditional bargaining of the past. We've all got to believe that if this city claims that it can't cough up the dough to straighten our pension (with the coffers overflowing) then it will NEVER happen. We need to stick together now and rattle the cage, folks.
And I liked the comment a bit up the page -- "We are the masters of our destiny." O h... and to you Eckerd College Genius' - 'extemporaneous' means "off the top of my head!" 8>) FTM KTF PTB&S DTRT
Received via email 11-16-05 Your comments concerning contract negotiations: No s**t, it is not necessary to know every tactic, nor would it benefit our side to have it so. However, with the recent change of events (impasse!!, no wait, maybe not), the general membership is left in a state of confusion. Can you honestly say there shouldn't be questions as to what our direction is? If you can you are
a much wiser (or trusting) man than I. We were united and on a roll, now our wheels are seemingly spinning up RB's driveway.
Received via email 11-24-05 I agree that we go ahead and go to city council, but you better get the Rookie FF's to use there common sense and vote on it to.
Received via email 11-26-05 The rookie FF's have no ideal what is going on because
nobody is saying anything. Hurry up and wait is all we hear.
Received via email 12-02-05 NOTE: I submitted this once before and you didn’t post it. I figured you either missed it somehow or were concerned about something I said. I have every confidence in the webmaster to cull inappropriate statements in a professional manner. And I do not mind you doing so to what I send. See if it makes it this time. Thanks a million. Dick Tully
Actually……? I gotta say I’m overwhelmed at the number of scenarios that are going through my head in relation to the current contract situation. I must admit that my first thought was that the members would automatically take the money and run on the first year offer. After this amount of time it was the obvious easy way out and at the same time accomplished two things. One, it put
a large amount of money in the pocket and two, even though the money wasn’t part of the pay plan it didn’t matter because a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush. I took it for granted that the members would continue their “pay now…worry later” habits and grab the bait. The results are still out on this thinking. But let me shed some light, however dim, on the acceptance of remuneration outside the “pay plan”.
Since the inception of the “prior” pension plan and up to the present it’s been recognized by the majority of the members and the leadership that every pension we have worked under is directly attached to the “pay plan”. Now that it’s been an article in the contract for thirty plus years it’s even more important since every person who retires will be governed by the pay plan when it comes to retiree compensation. In the end every one of us and every one of you will be effected by the clause in the contract titled “Pay Plan”. Still think I’m wrong? Read your pension.
It’s always been my position that every penny of compensation earned by the members of this Local be included in the “Pay Plan”. “Bonuses” and “on the seat” pay are two methods of screwing us all out of a fair and just wage and a pension that will support us until we die. All compensation outside the “Pay Plan” can disappear overnight and there’s not a damn thing you can do about it. This feeble attempt by the city to slip you a bonus in lieu of a true pay increase is bogus and can possibly cost you far more than that amount in the future. If you fall for this garbage offer now you’ll see it on the table over and over in the future. It will be the standard by which this city and many others will offer today’s compensation coupled with tomorrow’s remorse. Don’t let this “new boy” city negotiator make his bones walking up our backs. You didn’t see the cops caving to bonuses and half assed offers. Why should we eat it for this guy to look good? Have confidence in Winnie to do the right thing. Don’t jump at the bait. Be patient. Pay attention. Attend the meetings and vote your conscience. But whatever you do don’t give up. Just remember that the offer on the table right now is as low as the city can go. The council can only go higher. We’ve just been shown the worst they can do. Let’s give improvement a chance.
Fraternally,
Dick Tully
Editor's Note: Nope... Never got it, Dick. I've lost a couple of others, too. I was talking with a Bro' in Home Depot the other night who asked where 'his' post went. Never got that one, either. Hotmail's good for some things I guess. Send twice if in doubt!
Without going into all of the details of what our employer has offered us, I have no problem with letting all of you know what I voted. I see this as a very easy decision. It doesn't take a mathematician to do the calculations and if you still need help with it there are plenty of members who are willing to get you to see the light. I voted NO. As Dave Fraser has said, I too would prefer to take my chances with city council. Dave Nolsheim
Received via email 12-02-05 Without going into all of the details of what our employer has offered us, I
have no problem with letting all of you know what I voted. I see this as a very easy decision. It doesn't take a mathematician to do the calculations and if you still need help with it there are plenty of members who are willing to get you to see the light. I voted NO. As Dave Fraser has said, I too would prefer to take my chances with city council. Dave Nolsheim
Received via email 12-13-05 Anybody see the paper today 12/13/05? The mayor is trying to get a raise between 30,000- 100,000 dollars. Hss salary is being compared with other mayors salaries from Tampa, Hialeah, Jacksonville, and Orlando. Where are our figures coming from Lealman, Gulfport, and so on? Hope you all voted that chicken shi- of an offer down.
Received via email 12-13-05 DID ANYONE SEE IN THE PAPER TODAY WHERE OUR MAYOR IS UP FOR A HUGE RAISE TO MAKE HIM EVEN WITH MAYORS IN OTHER CITIES...? HE NEEDS TO THINK ABOUT THAT WITH US AND MAKE THE F/F'S SALARIES EVEN WITH CITIES SUCH AS HILLSBOROUGH OR THESE OTHER SMALL DEPARTMENTS RUNNING HALF THE CALLS OF US BUT MAKING MUCH MORE MONEY...
I THINK WE NEED TO PICKET AGAIN......KTF
Received via email 12-13-05 I agree 100% with the first two posts of 12/13. I'm sure our president/union is on that like stink on s**t. Let's get it together boys and girls...make this horses**t
end and get what we deserve! Who the f**k does RB think he is?
Editor- So you don't agree with Mayor Baker's potential raise. Okay... that's 1 vote against! 8>)
Received via email 12-14-05 Interesting that on 12/13 front page Mayor up for raise and the same day on front page of City/State the City of St. Petersburg's Murder rate is higher than any year for past decade. Yeah, Great Job mister mayor... Keeping our citizens safe. Maybe public safety needs more priority in the agenda rather than condos and top staff getting huge raises.
Received via email 12-14-05 You heard it first here; back on November 11th I pointed out for your discerning awareness that that bottom feeder Baker had a four pronged platform called the Baker Plan and the first item in that plan was economic development. It was also pointed out that he “ amassed a $189,000.00 war chest to get elected to a lame duck position in a city of 250,000.” His motive at the time was questioned since it was a given that he would win in a contest in which he was virtually running unopposed. The point was made, however unclear, that there was something other than Baker’s need to serve the public generating his actions. I think now you know what those things are: fifty to one hundred thousand of them every month for the rest of his term.
Then to soften the blow and to provide a whole choir of scapegoats someone has offered an additional plan to give each councilperson a raise in pay also. And on what do they base their calculations for these raises? Why comparison to other council members and like positions in other cities of like size and current compensation. What a revolutionary means to justify a pay raise. Why, I’ll bet this will someday be the standard by which all compensatory increases in pay will be based in all departments of every city in Florida. Could happen.
And I love it. Brothers and sisters before you break out the pitchforks and the torches think about what a great tool these fools have just given us. You can’t buy this kind of ammunition anywhere. This has to be the best opportunity to use their actions against them that could ever present itself. Granted the first gut reaction is amazement and admiration that they have the total balls to throw this kind of insult in our face at a time when so much is at stake. I mean you gotta give them props for pissing off almost all of the fire service in one fell swoop. But then when the rage is under control and a cooler head is in control you realize that what they’ve done has given us the ability to use their actions against them. The public couldn’t care less that they want to give themselves a gigantic pay raise. The public also doesn’t care that the council endorses to the man the tactics being used to stick it up the ass of each and every fire service employee and their individual family members.
It’s already been proven that the public couldn’t care less about us but with some creative thinking on the part of some of the more prolific antagonizers in our midst it shouldn’t be long before we have some ideas on how this situation can be put to our best use. And don’t just think locally. And wouldn’t it be nice if the International got involved. I mean really involved. Maybe someone could show up and give us some of that support we hear so much about in other cities around the country. Make a day of it and get some face time on the tube. Hell make a couple days of it.
And remember I asked you to start counting the days now that Baker has been reelected until he makes good on his promise to Winnie. I’m still counting. You should be too.
Fraternally and wishing each and every one of you a very Merry Christmas,
Dick Tully, Retired Local 747, I.A.F.F.
Received via email 12-15-05 It seems that we are again, being left inthe dust as a profession. The city views us as their dogs/mules to do the dirty work they fear. The vote of a huge raise given to themselves last night is a slap in our faces. Are we going to do anything? I like the idea of the $25.00 at the "ball" but ya know its probably a black tie event. It sure sucks, maybe we should have backed that Helm guy...
FTM FTM
Received via email 12-16-05 Read the article again. It's only black tie if you want to wear a penguin suit. Otherwise you can wear appropriate casual wear. I think bright red shirts and jeans will brighten this otherwise morbid occasion.
Let the good times roll. FTM KTF
Smee again,
Dick
Received via email 12-17-05 Give me my sign and a time, and His adress! B.ELLIOTT
Received via email 12-18-05 We could wear a nice dinner jacket with a black tie and our red shirt and make a big joke out of Bin Baker.
Received via email 01-02-06 You know brothers and sisters that I can’t be the only one who sees a boogie man behind every bush and fire truck. Surely there are others who recognize some questionable stuff that’s going on. I feel the need to ask some questions though and will try to accept the answers on their face since I’m not there. That is if anyone wants to answer my questions.
Why is it we’re going back to the bargaining table on the 12th of this month? Silly me, I thought we were at impasse and going to the special master to get this mess over with. Have we been conned in again by the city to play their game of procrastination? How many times are we gonna fall for the “Oh, please come back to the bargaining table one more time. We‘ll play nice this time.” Meanwhile time marches on and even though there are very minor accomplishments a final outcome is never reached. Please tell me there’s something going on that will nullify having to go to the council for a resolution to the problem. Because if there isn’t then we’ve be sucked in without being sucked off again and the time without a contract expands even farther. I’m not making any predictions or assumptions but it seems we’ve been to this dance before.
I never thought I’d see the day when blackmail was a part of a union member’s arsenal of solutions to a problem. It appears I thought wrong. I can’t believe what I’m reading in the “bullshit” section relating to a photo that will be published if certain people don’t resign. This isn’t even funny if it was intended as a joke. And if it’s real it scares the shit right out of me. I can only say I’m glad I no longer work where these sorts of things are condoned or allowed. I don’t expect anyone to resign over this threat so let’s see where it takes us. I doubt if we’ll like it.
Since we’re going back to the bargaining table for one last meal or two it seems you can put the picket signs and the red shirts back in the boxes and relax. We won’t be needing them since things are going to fall into place for us. We can all go back to breathing easy knowing that a solution in our favor is imminently forthcoming. I will withhold my unsolicited, unfounded thoughts in lieu of the outcome.
Fraternally,
Dick Tully
TEAM: As you might remember, we 'verbally' declared impasse as a result of the city's negotiator informing us that their best offer was on the table (they had not moved off of the 3% offer). We were immediately asked not to file the actual impasse paperwork so that the the Mayor could offer us an even worse deal with his "4% no roll-up bonus payout!"
Councilman Rick Kriseman has called for a closed-door executive session of Council, supposedly to put this past year behind us. We shall see.
