Received via Email 07-03-08 Okay, let the old guys feel good about their loud protests against the supplemental pension not working to our advantage (What's that? You never protested?). Let them pretend that trying to talk new people out of joining the job is the same thing as fighting the supplemental program. If harassing the new blacks with frequent "accidental" use of the N word and KKK references, along with mocking all other new guys because of the shitty pension you left them is your idea of "talking to the new hires", then rest easy, old timer. You did your job.
When I came on in the early 80's, I remember the old pension guys giving us shit for being young, black, and holding the short end of the pension stick. It only took us 37 years to turn the "new" pension into something resembling the old plan with no help from any of the old son's of bitches that sold us out in the first place. You guys could have caught the blue flu, picketed city hall, sued, bought newspaper ads, but you just let it happen quietly. You didn't even do anything symbolic. Who was watching YOUR pension fund all those years when the city wasn't funding it? Nice work, old timer. And now you choose to remember it in such a way that you can talk down to us for still feeling a little bit screwed. Good for you.
Thanks for biting, asshole.
Received via Email 07-03-08 Orange County Firefighters Getting 12-Percent Raise During Budget Crunch
Received via Email 07-03-08 Don't feel too screwed over..... That's a 12% raise in Orlando after 3 years of none.
Received via Email 07-04-08 To the genius who has the answer to everything just because he's black........
Ah, yes. The race card. How nice. When you can't win on facts try to win on the color of your skin. Save it for someone who gives a shit. It's lame, it's weak, and it's been done so many times it no longer has meaning. I'll bet you're one of them O'ruh ruh's or whatever that can't stop acting like it's still the seventies. That quasi-military tough guy front is really passe. And the fact that you know all the things that COULD have made a difference in the outcome of the pension plan really gives me cause for question. If those actions are so fruitful and productive WHY AREN'T YOU USING THEM TODAY TO GET A CONTRACT? Insted you cry victory at getting a COLA that is three or four years overdue and should have been gotten long ago and you think 2.5% is a monumental accomplishment. Not only that but you rolled over on all the other demands that for some reason were vitally important and suddenly got thrown away. Sweet !!! That's showiing them how tough you are. Actually I think NO ONE was watching our pension fund and that's how the city got away with screwing us. Please, and I'm being polite here, go back and read the last paragraph of my post over and over and over until it finally sinks in. Maybe you can get grammar guy and spelling guy to help you with the big words.
And keep that whine about the "N" word and KKK to yourself and those who care. I don't believe for a minute that there were any members who went around using the "N" word. (It's so heinous we can't even spell it) If there was it had to be only one or two and they're gone now I suppose so why don't you get over it? KKK? What KKK? Puhleeeeeese !!! And you know what? I'll bet the word "cracker" has never been uttered by you or anyone you know. Am I right? I knew it !! Take a minute and think about what you're saying.
Thanks for being a coward and not signing your name, asshole
Dick Tully
Retired and still willing to cheerfully answer questions here
Received via Email 07-05-08 Don't remember the "N" word being used? It was used frequently for years, usually followed with an "oops" then a hillbilly giggle if there was a black firefighter in the room. One white guy got a month of bad time for using the word on the phone. I also remember another white guy leaving a KKK recruitment form out for a black probie to see. That got a big hillbilly laugh. And Dick doesn't remember anything like this? This PROVES he is delusional and only remembers what he wants to.
Hey Dick, looking forward to your 1.5% COLA (I mean escalator) next year? What goes around.....
Received via Email 07-06-08 To Dick, not only was there no one watching over your pension while you were here, up until the recent attention by the union there has not been to much in our favor since you have been gone either. I cant imagine having the same members sitting on the team for 15+ years and they were never capable of stealing a win. Not even a close one.
They are probably pussy whipped at home as well.
BTW, Dick did the department or the union ever bring in professional people to talk to the guys about their life after retirement? I ask this because their are plenty of peeps in our midst right now that arent quite grasping what this COLA proposal will mean
Received via Email 07-06-08 I admit there was one member who got time off for use of the "N" word. It was at station 11. The man's name was Ronnie Williams. I was there when it happened. The rest of what you say was no doubt true. I kinda doubt the fire department was the only group of people doing these things. I'm not qualified to say whether this is as heinous as you make it out to be or not. And I'm certainly not making excuses for any meaningful derogatory words or actions. In today's PC invironment it seems to be less of a problem. At that time, and I believe it was around 1980 or 1981, the fire service was just in the beginning stages of political correctness and the "walk on eggs" environment had not yet permeated the stations or the department as a whole. I very much doubt if today you have these same problems. In fact it would seem that there's very little humor of ANY kind in the stations nowadays.
In any organization where men or/and women are in close quarters for long periods of time there's going to be tension. One of the ways to break the tension and ease some situations is humor. I'm not saying all of what you describe was meant as humor but I'm quite sure the majority of it was done as a joke and not in a malicious manner. I'm sorry but the KKK thing is just weak. Even at the time this happened the KKK was down to what, 100 members nationwide? And had the clout of zero? No one even knew how to JOIN the KKK let alone scare anyone with it's presence. Continuing to throw this and every other inflated and passed down by word of mouth happening from thirty years ago is just not an argument any more. All of us have been called names. Some more than others. Some are just nick names and others reflect a bit more. But I have to believe the vast majority of it is just joking around to pass the time or break the tension. Taking these petty actions of some to heart over this much time is a waste of time and meaningless.
Again, I think most of us have been called a name or two over time. I know my most recent was "asshole". And THAT from a guy who doesn't even know me. I could care less. It's just a word. I'm far more interested in making the facts known about the past to as many members as possible in order to at least help stop the inacurate bullshit that's being perpetuated. My pension doesn't hold a candle to the one you have access to. And that's without a COLA. I never heard of a "drop plan" or the possibility of getting a 3% multiplier. To retire at 100% of your pay isn't exactly peanuts. And that huge lump sum you get after five years in the drop will pay cash for a home on the day you leave. Stop whining about an escalator clause and start realizing that you have it better than anyone before you. We laid the ground work so that you could enjoy the benefits of today's contract. Whether you want to believe that or not is up to you. And yes, I AM looking forward to my 1.25% increase. THINK !!! If it wasn't for us old timers creating what we did we'd all be getting NO INCREASE. In the end we, the retirees, are just as important as any of you who are currently on the job. We made jokes and poked each other just like you do today. And at the same time we were a brotherhood that looked past all that when the bell rang. It's still the way of life in the stations and always will be. You and all the rest of the members should be very proud of your forebearers and not allow the actions of a few blind you to the actions of others who worked their ass off for those who were to come. Not everyone is trying to screw you just because you're black.
Fraternally,
Dick Tully
(The webmaster has informed me that future questions must be responded to with a "yes" or "no" answer due to space limitations.)
TEAM: Yeah - what he said!
Received via Email 07-06-08 To #1 on 07/06/08
1. maybe
2. No
Fraternally,
Dick Tully
Received via Email 07-08-08 I'm convinced that this contract is worth voting for. Not perfect, but too much good to take a chance of the city council ruining everything. My only regret is that the retirees from the old pension will get a 2.5% raise. Those bastards that sold us out deserve much less.
Received via Email 07-10-08 heh heh heh
Received via Email 07-15-08 Well, it appears that we wasted yet another vote for our future. How do you ask? I have been told that once again R.F. and his mysterious band of knomes was on the brink of blowing the Mayor into giving us the COLA but we screwed it up and went ahead and used a perfectly good vote on it. I wish he would tell us these things ahead of time. I mean He was almost there when it came to getting rid of the social security offset too. To hear him blow his own horn, it is he that single handedly has almost managed to pull off everything that the union has accomplished in the past 6 years. As I said before, I wish he would tell us what he has up his sleeve a little sooner. Right now he tells us on the morning after. It is beginning to get real old. If he could make a statement 6 months out, then that would lend some credence to his pitiful self. For now, R.F., shut the f**k up and get over it.
TEAM: Thanks for adding the stars. We hate adding stars to words.
Received via Email 07-15-08 Leave him alone. Dontcha know that he's one of the 12 angry men? He spent every last dollar we had in the union bank account and it wasn't enough. Then he became Budtallion 1's head spy and he didn't perform so well there. Then he got his ass (yeah HE got is own ass) tossed out of one of the best paying jobs on the department because being a prick to the civilians came so naturally to him. If he were really any kind of Sherlock, he'd have picked the right lotter numbers years ago and shared it with the other 11.
Received via Email 07-16-08 Well it has already started to happen. I was working over today and the talk is how many are going to drop out of the union instead of giving up those 5 hours of pay. No, I did not hear any of these stories include not taking the pay raise or retro money. I did not know we had line item likes and dislikes in the contract. I find it strange that alot of these same folks feel we are at least deserving to be paid like our brothers and sisters on the other side of the bridge, well guess what? They must also give time to their unions by way of their contracts as well. And in case your wondering, this was not a new idea, is was first presented during the RF tenure. I will miss those individuals that would rather "OPT OUT" of the union than to give up 5 hours of vacation time annully. What a waste of principles.
TEAM:
Consider this - we all work about 2500 hours a year. Divide 5 by 2500 and tell us all what you get!
Consider this - many of your "Brothers" and "Sisters" don't contribute to the pool-time account. They are 'takers'.
Consider this - the current minimum for 'giving' to the pool-time account is 'more than' five hours. New contract - everyone becomes a 'giver'.
Consider this - on the "other side of the bridge" Union presidents are released from duty to act on behalf of their members. If this fire department's management doesn't want "full release" for your Union president - you should. Fire chief's act on their own behalf, not yours!
Received via Email 07-16-08
Bargaining session on August 4th
Our next Bargaining session will be Monday, August 4th 2008 with the City of St.Petersburg
Date: Monday, August 4th 2008
Time: TBA
Place: TBA
Thank you,
Winnie Newton
Received via Email 07-16-08 How is it there there are some who have given large amounts of vacation time and these fags want out of the union after the best run we've every seen?
Fags.
Received via Email 07-16-08 I wonder if these takers realize that pool time is required to attend bargaining sessions? How about conventions and labor seminars? Do these takers realize that members attend these events as alternates? Many times some of these alternates are invited along by the President in attempts to spark an interest for the future of our careers. Attendance at these seminars and conferences is where things are "LEARNED", this learning is only possible with the pool time account. You can tell the difference between the officers that have used the pool hours wisely and learned vs those that attended games.
TEAM: Good points. Pool time is available to anyone for Union purposes.
Received via Email 07-17-08 I've said it before and I'll say it again. If you want to drop out of the Union it's easy. Just call Bill Mott on the phone and say, and you can quote me if you can't find the words for yourself, "Bill, I don't want to be in the Union any more and I would ask that you remove me from the list of those who have payroll deduction of Union dues with the city." And *poof*, you're no longer a member of the Union. No paper work. No repercussions. No brainer. Now take the decals off your vehicle.
I will give you some facts. Allen Wilson first asked for "Pool Time" back in the early 70's. In the beginning it was NOT a popular activity. And there was very little "Pool Time" donated. That meant that often times Allen had to use his own vacation time to attend to the Union business. As time went on most of the members realized, although reluctantly, that "Pool Time" was a necessity and they contributed. As the Local became more and more involved in educating the officials, protecting the rights of members, attending seminars and meetings, and just plain running the business the amount of time away from the station by the president grew proportionately. By the time I became president of the Local there was never enough "Pool Time" on the books each year to adequately provide for the work needing to be done. Consequently several members of the executive board used their own vacation and sometimes sick time to help close the gap.
At that time the contribution of time to the "Pool Time" account was voluntary. And yes, there were many who didn't think it was up to them to "volunteer" their time. You could contribute as little as ONE HOUR and there were those who never contributed any. The thing that I got questioned about more than anything else was my use of "Pool Time". Usually by the non-contributors who wanted more than anything else to justify their lack of contribution. Since the inception of "Pool Time" contributing to it has been a reluctant act even by those who know it's value. No one wants to give away their valuable time away from the station. But they do so because they realize that on any given day that time could be used for THEIR problem, THEIR suspension, THEIR contract negotiations, THEIR grievance, or THEIR future in the fire service.
Times have changed drastically in almost forty years but one thing apparently stays the same; there are still those who don't want to contribute to the future of the Local by donating to the "Pool Time" account. And now it's a contractural item. So rather than just not donating it's a matter of removing one's self from the organization to save 5 hours of vacation time. I honestly don't think there will be many who will be that ignorant or selfish that they can't see the validity and the absolute necessity of the "Pool Time" account. You must remember that the city is the one who says "Sure, you can have time away from the station for Union business but we want to be sure that your members want you to HAVE that time. Therefore only those hours donated by the membership will be allowed as "Pool Time" hours." And when you deny the donation of those hours you play right into the hands of the city. They know that the less time that's donated the less time the leadership of the Local has to do their job. Five hours of vacation time is a small price to pay for the representation of an informed and educated president and executive board that work daily for your betterment.
I would ask that before you pick up that phone to call Bill Mott that you take time to think about what you're doing and not be influenced by those who whine and complain about every little thing. This is YOUR contract and YOUR benefits and YOUR future. Five hours of vacation time is a small price to pay to maintain the excellence and professionalism of Local 747, I.A.F.F.
Fraternally,
Dick Tully
Received via Email 07-17-08 Mr. Tully, I would like to take my hat off to you for this post. It was a difinate learning sesion for me. The only thing is, is that I am one of the members of the choir so I was fully able to understand. You did point out things in a way that even I was able to understand with a better clarity then ever before, and I thank you for that. I will tell you the biggest gripe some of the members have had with the contributing of the 5 hours. Unfortunatly some of us do math wosre than we spell, and you know we already have a grammer guy so I guess we need a cipher guy as well. Anyway this is the gripe. The general concensus is that the President will never be on duty. I guess they feel putting in hours at the Union Office overseeing the affairs of 375 members from 3 different departments is eaiser than agreeing to what to watch at the stations. this is where I get to shine as the cipher guy. There are roughly 320 members of SPFR, if all give 5 hours that totals 1600 hours. Well, obviously they dont know we work 2704 hours in a year. I see this leaving in shortage of 1104 hours. Even if the pres used all of his earnable 275 hours of vacation time he would still be short 829 hours. That still works out to 34.5 shifts or roughly 3 and a half months short of never being on duty. Oh yeah, lets not forget that the 1600 hours collected is also intended to provide hours for the use by the remaining executive staff, and other members as well to attend union meetings, functions, seminars, and the other things that you pointed out in your post. And yes, I know for a fact that none of the current 3 members of the ex. officers have a great amount of hours in their vaction buckets either. I guess some things were never meant to change. Well maybe now they can. Just like the contract changes over time. I know that not all members read these posts but I am glad that I took the time to read your last post and then took these few minutes of my time to respond and add to them.
Again, a big Thank-you to Mr. Tully.
Received via Email 07-19-08 Isn't Dick they guy that created the new pension and got rid of the COLA back in the 70's?
Received via Email 07-19-08 Yep, one in the same. He also kept the annual physical in the contract. Especially the finger wave for those over forty. He sided with the city in taking away two holidays. He sold out the lieutenants to give the medics a raise. He made a pact with the devil to make sure the "B" shift always worked Christmas & New Years. He protested the use of synthetic hose so that the members would have to hang the cotton jacket rubber lined stuff at four in the morning. He was instrumental in implementing the stonewalling tactic used by the city at the bargaining table. He tought Mr. DuVernoy the use and cover up of bad faith bargaining. He was secretly privy to what the council's desires were and worked against the fire fighters from inside. He used his knowledge of the union's tactics to pimp them to the city. Harry Weihman wore a dress to most of the bargaining sessions. He used pool time to go to bars and clubs. He never gave a flying shit about anyone but himself. He never gave a damn about the union. It was all just a smoke and mirror exercise. He gave himself pay raises every year he was in office. He drank excessively. He did just about every dumb as thing you can conjure up in your pea brain. What a guy !!! If only there were more like him.
Team: And to think... all that baggage and he wasn't even a chief!
Received via Email 07-19-08 THE CITY OF ST.PETERSBURG, did what they do to us everyday, the same as they did back then. THE CITY OF ST. PETERSBURG has and will continue to screw over its employees every chance it can.
Received via Email 07-20-08 Regarding Dick, I heard that the whole Lindbergh baby thing was his idea. Also, didn't he invent crack?
Received via Email 07-20-08 Wow, according to the 2nd post of 7/19 seems we should be a little cautious when listening to DT. Those accusations seem pretty factual, how can all those issues just be made up ? What do you say now for yourself Sir Tully, or should we say Self Tully? "It was all just a smoke and mirror exercise" Hang on, I am sure Tully will have an explanation for each item taking up an entire page. Just look hard to be sure the mirrors and smoke are not being generated.
Received via Email 07-23-08 Dick Tully once f*cked up our pension,
In his defense he creates more apprehension.
He blamed the city,
Which was quite a pity,
Because his bullshit continues to cause tension.
Fat Larry
Poet Laureate
Received via Email 07-24-08 This poem is so beautiful in that it shines a bright light on the truth in the most humorous way. I agree that those old timers hacked up and bludgeoned the pension to save their own asses. That is obvious. But Fat Larry doesn't just make us think, he makes us laugh. I laughed so hard I think about 2 or maybe even 3 little drops of pee leaked out. It was that funny.
Received via Email 07-24-08 Well, what does everybody think about the new boot policy? We can spend $150 for lace-up bunker boots that cost more than $150 but they don't lace-up. Here's a case of putting a moron in charge of the training division. I have rubber boots that I can pull-up that my feet flop around in right now. Why would I want to spend my own money for another pair of pull-up boots for my feet to wallow around in. It's obvious that this guy's never going to wear them, yet he's limiting our choices to a very narrow window and for what? Is he affraid that if they have laces and a zipper that I'm going to wear them around the station.
Doood. It's time for retirement. If it weren't for Rob Edwards in training, we'd never know you guys even exist. Retire and let someone with some common sense (no, not that asshole shitboy SK) get a shot riding out the DROP!
Received via Email 07-24-08 Your use of the word "training" brings to mind the thought that we might actually have a "training" division. We know that's not the truth. Half of the SPFR is working for the 'other' side, making bank as part-timers with no pension benefits. They might as well be working for Sunstar. It's all the same shit.
Received via Email 07-24-08 Hey dipshit, I am one of half making bank. Have to do something to fill the gas tank, pay property taxes and so on, since you pussies caved for a 2.5% raise. There is some retirement benefits so think before you speak dickhead, I mean dipshit.
Received via Email 07-24-08 damn it all with the way things r going I will end up another Freddy Guy before I can retire!
Received via Email 07-26-08 Freddy Guy is not a good example of a guy stuck on the job longer than he wants to be. Freddy loved being a firefighter and would gladly come back if he could. If he did, he would outwork half of us... he'd probably still be here if the drop plan didn't have a 5 year limit. I never knew anyone on this job with a better attitude that never changed--- no matter how long he stayed. Like Freddy said: "Only the names change." I'm not sure what Freddy is doing today, but I bet he's working harder than any of us--- and loving it.
Some men like to work, and some like to bitch. Which one are you?
Received via Email 07-26-08 With the newer people they don't care about their future. I spoke with Kap the medic and she could care less about the union fighting for her as long as she went on her trips overseas. Another useless medic. We need to fight the good fight and stick it to the admin and the city and fight dirty. Just like the mob and the teamsters up north. Doesn't anyone have dirt on staff or the city they could use to threaten them. Someone must.
Received via Email 07-27-08 Your right, I have worked with her, She could care less about the union or the members as long as she gets her check. She's useless. Wouldn't make it at a real dept. She should go back to bartending. She would be a perfect match for The King Drunk Callahan
Received via Email 07-27-08 I saw the list of "approved" bunker gear boots. Looked like an ad right out of Firehouse Magazine. Great research Lanning.. (Training poohbah of the year). Why don't you let Rob help you look a little less foolish by letting him throw the dart at the advertisement the next time. After all, everyone in that division is your shitboy. THEY make you as great as you supposedly appear to outsiders that don't really know you!
Received via Email 07-27-08 Those of us that knew, and had the honor to work with Freddy knew why he was here. I think that 7/24, #5 was using the length of time F.G., worked, not that he wasn't one of the finest SPFD ever turned out, to show their frustration as to working forever to make ends meet. FTM!
Received via Email 07-28-08 With all that money she could get a b**b job also
Received via Email 07-28-08 Thanks to Rob Edwards for making Lanning look good. Rob never gets any of the credit only the crap from the sprayed cockroach. Rob deserves a metal for just having to put up with a hole lanning.
Received via Email 07-30-08 its Medal unless your going to wrap himup in copper.
Received via Email 07-30-08 Him and up are two separate words.
Received via Email 07-31-08 *********************************************YAWN************************************************
Received via Email 07-31-08 Winnie, unfortunately we have have guys wanting 100 grand a year which we deserve but they still do not know the difference between medal and metal.
Received via Email 07-31-08 What about sports athletes, many of them make millions of dollars per year and many of them can't read, speak, or even use common sense, ever. Maybe firefighters are heros like they are ! What about that grammer dude !
Received via Email 07-31-08 Now we are being compared to professional athletes? I'll try to remember that the next time we all weigh in.
Received via Email 07-31-08 Athletes? We have guys that are so fat that When they step on the scale it says "to be continued..." So fat that other athletes train by jogging around them. They are so fat that when they bend over the tide goes out. I'm talking fat. So fat that when they haul ass they have to make two trips. So fat that you can run out of gas by swerving to avoid hitting them in the road. So fat that the only thing that finds them attractive is gravity. So fat that if they were to star in Raiders of the Lost Ark, they would be the giant round stone. Their favorite foods are seconds and thirds. So fat that if they lay on the beach and you put an X on them, helicopters will try to land on them. So fat that they can get jobs at the movie theater... as the screen. When they say they are so hungry they could eat a horse; they've done it. So fat that weight watchers locks the doors when they see them in the parking lot. So fat that they are on both sides of their families.
Received via Email 08-01-08 This is the kind of high brow comedy we need more of in here.
Received via Email 08-02-08 2nd and 3rd 7/31. What about NFL linemen ? Most are over 300 pounds. We may a few over 300 pounds but not the percentage of any NFL team. As firefighters we need the skinny little ones to get into attics and we need the big boys to carry your ass out of a fire when sh-- hits the fan. If you dont like being compared to a professional athlete than maybe you should quit the profession of a professional firefighter and go to work for subway and sell the no fat subs. I am sure that is what most NFL lineman eat! Get Real !!
Received via Email 08-02-08 Tell me some firefighter that are the average of NFL lineman. Average is about 320 and 6foot 4 inches. That comes to 4.21 per inch. That is not the biggest - just the average. Now times that per inch number by a 5' 10'' firefighter since that is about the average. Now we have 294 pounds. Now the big boys we have that are say 6'6 inches would weigh 328 pounds. We don't have to many that break the scales at these amounts but we may a few. But o my gosh, these fat boys in the NFL make millions. Sorry but your point is mute 2nd 7/31 and 3rd 7/31. No go eat a steak and beef up. Oh but if you rather be slim and trim and a model for GQ, then have at it.
Received via Email 08-02-08 If you've got a paramedic license and a clean driving record, you're a stellar dandidate for Sunstar. Liability rules their hiring, not whether or not you're a creep!
Received via Email 08-02-08 how many in our dept would be arrested if they did random drug testing which the union does not want. I wonder why that is? Shouldnt we have a drug free dept? Hmm Probably half the dept and most of HQ would be arrested.
Received via Email 08-02-08 fourth 8-02 "I wonder why that is?" Guess you have never heard of the fourth amendment and probable cause. Go ahead and give all your rights away. The mutts would love that.
Received via Email 08-03-08 Actually you are both right and wrong. Just as police do DUI checkpoints and are upheld in a court of law so are random drug testing done by computers picking either social security or employee numbers. Most large depts do have this and the union doesnt mind. Most people compain if they have something to hide.
Received via Email 08-04-08 "Actually you are both right and wrong" who the heck are you thinking you know the law. Each jurisdiction, state, and locality are different. Those things mentioned are not legal in every city and in every state. Plus each circumstance is different. It all depends on what locality is involved and who the judge may be. Remember the underlying foundation of probable cause. Unless the 4th Amendment is abolished, a person chosen without probable cause would have a strong case. Roll the dice and hope the judge is on your side that day. I would stick to firefighting and not practicing law. Leave that to some of our crooked politicians(especially the ones who are or used to be attorneys) They have a fine standard set for themselves - make money and self serve.
Received via Email 08-04-08 Actually it was upheld by the Supreme Court of the United States.
Received via Email 08-04-08 Any word with negotiations today. I got popped for mandatory. Speaking of mandatory can we change the button to "mandatory sucks!"
TEAM: Funny that you should mention it. We argued for 5%, 5% and we brought our O/T proposal back to the table. We were told that the city doesn't have any money. Rose is so full of shit!
Received via Email 08-05-08 So what was their offer, or did they even offer.
Received via Email 08-05-08 I don't understand why anyone would be surprised at the city offer of 0%. What did you THINK they were going to offer? After all they just agreed to a 4.5% pay increase for the first year of the new contract. It's just that you can't get 2% of it until you retire. And now for some reason you think that we can just sashay up to the table and the city will give us 5% out of the goodness of its heart. Talk about drinking the kool aid. The beginning of this "contract" page is filled with examples of OTHER Locals winning excellent pay increases. Not one of them refers to THIS Local. So let's sum up. We caved for a 2% COLA that should have been gotten years ago. We caved for a 2.5% pay increase. Far below what we said we wouldn't budge on. And now the city says they have no money for pay increases for the other two years of the contract. We can be sure that they do have SOME money and they will let go of it after a long drawn out series of futile pleadings by the union. And when they come to us with their "final" offer of 2 or 2.5% we'll cave again. Talk is cheap and it's a good thing. It seems to be our strong suit.
In the article in TampaBay.com that is linked here it is stated that "There is a 2.5 percent salary increase for all, plus more for most firefighters and police officers." Did the police already approve the new contract for the next three years? If not then this is a definite unfair labor practice on the part of the city. And who are those that are outside the term "most"? Just how much did they get? This article is nothing more than a political ad without the "paid political advertisement" tag. It's a clear case of the mayor getting his ducks in a row and smoothing the road for his protege. It's a clear warning to those who would aspire to the position of Mayor in St. Petersburg. All the more reason why we should be looking ahead. Face it. Things are not going to get better for quite a long time so we damn sure better cover all the bases or suffer the consequences. It won't be pretty.
Dick Tully
Received via Email 08-05-08 I hate this city. Rick can suck my.....RICK!!
Received via Email 08-05-08 Well we just got what we asked for, you dance with the devil and you know your gonna get burned. As firefighters, you think we would know this. Wouldn't you like that vote back now, A$$holes! Those are the S's you wont see.
Received via Email 08-06-08 Finally I agree with shit stirrer Tully in the fact you pussies caved for 2.5% and are now bitching that they do not want to give us 5%.
Received via Email 08-06-08 Mayor and the Chiefs got theirs so the heck with the rest of ya. Firefighters are a pain in the Mayors big ugly nose, so why fight it. And do you really think any of our div chiefs have the balls to stand up for you. Fagat about it!! Aint going to happen folks.
Received via Email 08-07-08 Don't you love the way the chiefs say "lets move on now since the contact is over" what a bunch of losers. They got theirs. Now they want us to just shut up and get over the fact that the cost of living is so high we can barely make it on our salary unless we work a day off job. Well, maybe they cant add right because a 52 hour work week is a bit more than a 40 hour work week, and none of their asses are working a second job. They have lost all sense of reality because they make the big cash and they have more time off then us. Hope you chiefs dont get mandatory overtime on a special family occasion or a holiday. Oh thats right you never have to work overtime. Dont you all remember where you came from. Obviously not. So next time you want to say move on and get over the contract issues, you need to get out of dream land. It would be nice to have some backing on the pay issues, but we know you will never do that. Why? Cause you got yours!!! Time for most of you to go and suck some other city dry. We need some new leadership that not only cares about the firefighers but has a little bit of common sense. Unfortunately that is not a requirement to be a division chief. Grow some balls or leave !!!
Received via Email 08-08-08 I'm so glad you said CHIEFS. It's the truth. It's going to take a generation or two to get these guys in the mindset that their in the union now and at any time they could start acting like those in other unions around the state. Some of these guys moving up the ladder are an embarrassment to us all. They would sell their soul's to get a piece of the pie. I'd love to hear a conversation at their dinner table about how fondly the chief looks upon them. I've yet to see a fire chief get us a single pay raise and if you guys aren't looking too closely, they are trying to pick our pockets every day. More embarrassments.
Received via Email 08-09-08 So, for the promise from Mike Moore to put in a good word to the promotion board, Mark Sweet is putting together a 'vote of no confidence' on President Newton over the approval of the contract that gives pool hours to the Union for Union business. Ya see, this would not look so good for Mike - what with him holding a Pro-labor position with the State association, so he had to get the most vulnerable minion he could find to make the push. Don't forget MM had a big hand in molding MS during his new boy years while still a Captain. Who in their right minds are going to sign such a thing? I guess there will be plenty that don't remember that the contract was passed by a large margin. They may have also forgotten that other than the changes in the % for pay in year 2 and 3 and the change in the start date for the insurance changes, this is the same contract we voted down a couple months ago. We have proved that we will vote down a contract proposal more than once in the past 5 years, so why did we approve this one this time?
You will find that MM has been nothing more than a P.O.S. for the past umpteen years when it comes to the Indians gaining improvements. He has his and now that some new stuff comes along that he and others cant get it because of the agreements they signed when they chose to enter into the DROP, he is going all out in his attempts to do as much damage to the union and its officers as possible. Even with all of his past attempts at stopping things from happening, and even telling members the union didn't stand a chance, though wrong it still hurts the unions solidity with its membership. Call station 9-C. They have a great historian when it comes to the wrongness of MM's escapades.
Just remember what Chiefs Callahan, Large, and Wimberly have done, attempted to do, and are willing to continue doing in attempts to slow down the momentum that the union train has achieved in the past few years and is capable of in the future with the acquisition of the pool hours. They know that they are continually suffering defeats from the small handful of properly PRO LABOR educated, and with the right amount of opportunities for more members to receive this same knowledge they will soon be out on their asses.
I love the part in the latest memo where JO states that he knows that we have members that are more willing to forgo a promotional test then to study during the holiday season. (Yeah right when did JO ever give a shit about any of us?) What the chief is saying is that he would rather have Yes boys show they have no commitment or the willingness to make a sacrifice when it comes to their futures and this is what he is trying to take away from the Union, by stopping the commitment of pool hours by his same employees.
These are our next leaders he is picking out and this is what we will have to live with, if changes are not able to be made through the union's bargaining.
TEAM: All the "he said - she said" aside, dangling that COLA over our heads was a pretty impressive move on the city's part. Now lets turn our gaze to the FOP and the PBA. The FOP declared impasse months ago. Have they filed the paperwork yet? Have they appeared before Council yet? The PBA was informed two meetings ago that they city's last offer was their best and final. The PBA left the table without declaring impasse or making any further headway and informed Rose that they'd get in touch with her to line-up the next meeting date. A subsequent meeting took place and they asked again, "Is this your best and final offer?" The reply was, "Yes! We told you that the last time that we met." Still looking to salvage something from the meeting, the PBA cried, "This insurance thing could be a deal-breaker if we bring your offer back to the membership to vote on." Rose -- unfazed, said, "I understand." Yet again they walked away from the table with their tails between their legs.
Daily, our momentum builds - both politically and unionist's. It's incredible when you think about it. Some of our potential future fire department leaders have got all the buzzwords locked-in that will help to get them promoted -- but have seldom made themselves available to 'promote' the one concept that scares the hell out of management. Unity in labor. Your Union [of Fire Fighters] pushes everyone's pay and benefits package to new high's, whether they've been promoted out of the union or not!
It's been said that "an army of sheep led by a lion would defeat an army of lions led by a sheep."
Received via Email 08-10-08 "Some of our potential future fire department leaders." Surely your not talking about Mark Sweet? He's had a hard on for Winnie from the day it was found that he couldn't be trusted. If he's the tip of the spear, the union's not in trouble. This Fire dept. is. He'd better lay low before somebody tells him the truth about how people see him. He's always been viewed as a snitch. That's pretty low on this job.
Received via Email 08-10-08 I find this kinda stuff pretty funny. MS is mounting an attack against Winnie so that MM doesn't look good?. What asshole told him to do that? Surely it wasn't an "original thought." Lord knows he's never had one of those. And as far as that goes, that horse is out of the barn. MM better watch himself or someone's going to figure out that he's f***ing the dog. He collects a paycheck from the FPF and he's a management whore. He'll whore himself out to management if it won't get into HIS pocket. Notice how he's all puffed up about not getting in on the COLA? They told him when he DROPped that he was RETIRING. So f***ing RETIRE ALREADY ! And JO wants to give all the guys on the list a break over the holidaze. Yeah Sure. I'm sure he'll come knocking at my door on Christmas day, too. I've got an American flag flying in the front yard and a Christian Cross bumper sticker. That combination's like Kryptonite to a JW! He's the first guy that ought to jump on a grenade if it's thrown, otherwise somebody's liable to THROW him on it. I can't wait to see what the county's got up their sleeve for consolidation. I vote him gone, first!
Received via Email 08-10-08 This is in response to the poster of #1 on 8-8-08
"I've yet to see a fire chief get us a single pay raise ........" This statement and apparent sentiment is quite prevelant among the members. The last fire chief that "got" the members of the fire department a raise was Zel Greenway. This was in the sixties and the method of having the fire chief plead and beg the city was eliminated when the union took over as the bargaining agent for the members. Now the union pleads and begs the city. Since that point in time NO chief has been responsible for ANY increase in pay gotten by the members. At that time the chief went out and collective bargaining came in. From that time on the union would be responsible for securing every benefit we got. It's been pointed out before that the only reason a chief, any chief, is in attendance at the bargaining table is that he or she is there as a reference source. The chief is NOT there to support or encourage either side. That's why at times you will see different chiefs in attendance when negotiations are being done in a venue that he is either responsible for or in which he or she has pertinent knowledge. Contrary to popular belief the chief cannot slap Rose to the floor and demand that she give the union everything they demand. If you ever attend a negotiation meeting you will notice that the chief in attendance is lucky to say anything unless specifically asked by the city negotiator. They are there as an information source and nothing else. Please read this over and over until it sinks in. No chief can get you a pay raise.....or anything else included in the contract for that matter. As long as the members are governed by a ratified contract negotiated by the union there is no other person or body that can negotiate, or speak for the them in these matters. Period. Done. Get over it.
And just one question for the members that voted for the contract and now want to act like they've been sold down the river by the leadership; WHY? For god's sake why did you vote for a contract that clearly has a clause governing the use and donation of pool time that you don't agree with? Why did you vote for a contract that contains language that clearly enrages you and is so heinous it makes you want to quit the Local? If I know Winnie he explained this article along with all the others at the meetings held before the ratification vote. All I can assume is that a lot of members didn't think it was necessary to know what they were voting on and didn't attend. Whose fault is that? Now you have bug up your ass about one of the articles not being to your liking. I'll bet that COLA was to your liking. And I'll be that 2.5% was to your liking. Those are the only two things you saw when you voted. And now you have a problem with giving the union back a small token of your appreciation for getting those things for you. I can't help thinking that if those who are howling the loudest had been giving v/t regularly in the past they wouldn't be suffering the agony and shock that comes with something new. Since they probably contributed nothing this feels like quite a injustice. They can no longer make excuses for not at least doing SOMETHING to strengthen the union. Whether they like it or not. Let me be the first to say "thank you". I'm sure your contribution.......uh, donation is greatly appreciated.
Fraternally,
Dick Tully
TEAM: "And just one question for the members that voted for the contract and now want to act like they've been sold down the river by the leadership..." A small minority looking for allies. Hardly worth mentioning.
Received via Email 08-10-08 You know whats great ! No matter what, MM will be retiring soon - a year or so, and he isnt ever getting a COLA. Just think of that when ever you are feeling the wrath of our so called brother Mike. And when he leaves it will be a great celebration as it was with Skip Hawkins. Remember this quote from the Bible - Proverbs 29:2 "When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn." If HQ would just listen to the troops and who they are rejoicing about and who they are mourning about, specifically Div Chiefs - they would quickly solve a lot of unforseen problems. Unfortunatly, some of those in charge are the rulers we all mourn about.
TEAM: We some it up, much the same way... "All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing... "
Received via Email 08-11-08 We can point a lot of fingers at those who constantly try to undermine this organization, but the one thing that remains clear about this 5 hour thing is that Large started the shit in an officers meeting. He as much as threw in in the officers face by asking "are you guys going to let the union take that 5 hours from you, like that?" I hope that when you get back from a morning of reading the paper and snacking on leftovers from the c-shift at the master station that you read this and start some more shit, Jimmy.
Received via Email 08-11-08 I was there at that meeting. Large is becoming another Budtallion 1. He throws shit out there for us to bite on an then claims he's just repeating what he heard. Bullshit. He plants seeds just to watch them grow and therein lies the rub. We've got fools on this job that would sell their soul for a promotion. Why is Winnie the most trusted union president that we've had in a number of years? Because he's not beholding to the chief, this department or the city. Some of you folks reading this are getting pissed right about now because you know that YOU don't fall into that category. You fall into the 12 angry men category. If this is your first time hearing this, you might be one of the one's we're talking about. Don't speak for me because you DON"T speak for me. I spoke when I voted to ratify this contract. If you want something to bitch about that you voted on, don't bitch about the 5 hours you're giving to the union to use for your benefit............ bitch about the huge insurance problem we're going to have the moment we retire from this job.
Talk about a bunch of nothing over nother. If your feelings got hurt, toughen up. Your union is not the enemy but it has many and they pretend to be our friends.
Received via Email 08-11-08 The 5 hours this October was sneaky. Nobody knew about it, and it did NOT come up at the union meeting that I attended. We were told we could opt out... period.
However, regarding the inability to opt our in October, so what? It's just 5 hours! What kind of scab mentality do you have if you can't cough up 5 fu**ing hours? Get over it! Start opting out in January you fu**ing piece of shit scab asshole. Fu** you. Fu** all you scab co**suckers!!
Thank you.
Yours in brotherhood,
MES
TEAM: Being vague about your feelings leaves us wanting more...
Received via Email 08-11-08 Am I the only one laughing because I told you all so?
Mike Moore told you that it was 100% guaranteed that we were going to do a shift swap without the chief negotiating with the union. Wrong!
He also told us we were never going to get rid of the SS offset. Wrong!
He said we were never going to get a COLA. Wrong!
He's now saying he's going to sue the city. What's he going to use for an excuse? "I never read the papers that the city put in front of me and then notarized in front of a witness?" Bullshit! He's been wrong about everything he's ever told you was going to happen in this union and because he didn't believe in us, he's being left behind. Too FU**ing BAD!
If he's the pied piper, there's a bunch of dumb asses following him to certain extinction.
Received via Email 08-12-08 Like mentioned above, the 5 hours of vacation we give to our union is the least we can do. And the city along with our so called caring Div Chiefs, have tried to focus us on fighting each other over 5 measly hours yet taking thousands of future dollars away from us with this BS health insurance rate hike. Police and Fire are the highest risk employees in the city (exluding our high dollar Div Chiefs, who sit behind a desk and spread rumors to divide the unions). That should be our focus for the future, not - my feelings are hurt because...whaaaaaa, they are making me give up 5 or my hours of vacation. Grow up you bunch of babies and look at the real problem. Don't be suckered in by the web of lies and deceit coming from our very own Fire Admin. Our officers and firefighters need to grow a pair and speak up at the next round of officer meetings and STOP the MADNESS!!
Received via Email 08-12-08 To 8/11 #4"He's been wrong about everything he's ever told you was going to happen in this union and because he didn't believe in us, he's being left behind." You hit the nail right on the head yet he manages to keep a few ankle biters around his feet. He's a chatty kind of guy who is always coming off like he's your best friend. Try again. His best friend is one of his drunk buddies who's now living in the Keys. Don't kid yourself, he is always working for himself. He's even gone so far as to take on a FPF DVP job and do absolutely nothing with it except to cash the monthly check when it comes in. His PTEC job is more important than showing up to work for us! Oh yeah, and he's the guy that wanted to get the captains and the DC's back into the union and then when his drunk buddy took too much heat from mayor dickhead, he wanted to hold off on the vote to hive the drunk time to get out of Dodge. Add it all up and this guy's a selfish prick who's a tool for management and a monkeywrench thrown into our union.
What a dick!
Received via Email 08-12-08 Hence, the nick name for the past 30 + years, Dick Moore ! Fits doesn't it. It always has!
Received via Email 08-14-08 This website and the webmaster is getting just as bad as the St. Pete Times. You only see it one way. I'm a blue with no chance of a promotion and dont want it. Winnie must like you, because the majority of us he can't stand. Watch how he treats FF's of local 747. I think J.D. and J.W. are full of shit, thats obvious, but if you put a white shirt on winnie, stuck him in front of a bunch of union members from a diff. F.D. and tried to railroad this contract on them, he would be in the same class as are great ones. We fought how long for a cola, pension improvements, pay, O.T., wording, staffing, and believed. If I was forced of this job today, the only thing i would have is a 2.5% towards my 10 plus years on the job, 5 less vac. hrs to cash in and a cola the city wont back, sure hope thats there in 26 years when I'm 60, I dought it. We should be grateful to give 5 hrs of vac. time to the union, my ass. Winnie hasn't gotten us anything that the city wasn't already gonna give us.
Proud pool time scab.
TEAM: Oh! You're the guy. Yeah you're right. The city would eventually give us everything we every wanted without any effort on our part!
Received via Email 08-14-08 To 08/14/08 - You have the right to your opinion, as delusional as it may be. Since you are so outspoken and feel that Winnie mistreats you and others I suppose we will be seeing your name in the hat for the next union president. Your accusations are vague at best. How have you been mistreated? Also, if it was up to the City to give us anything, we would have got NOTHING or a lot less than what we have gotten. Either you are very young and have no clue about bargining, unions, etc. or you are just very MISINFORMED! The website and webmaster are FAIR, maybe more people are FOR the union and Winnie then you see fit. Since you are so full of all of this information I would hope to see you at the next union meeting where you will be a man (or woman) and stand up and share it will all the members in attendance and not just hide and tell it on here.
Received via Email 08-14-08 The city hasn't gotten us shit, Winnie hasn't gotten us shit, we've only lost shit. One way TEAM.
Received via Email 08-14-08 I'm a big believer in the saying, "seeing is believing." I'm a true believer. I don't listen to what others have to say and use that as my sole source for forming my opinions about anything. There are too many hidden agendas and axes to grind. Some on this site and many more on the job fritter away their entire existense, ALMOST making it to the union meetings - ALMOST making it to negotiations - ALMOST standing on the street corner - ALMOST doing a midnite sign blitz - ALMOST putting political signs together - ALMOST emptying the trash cans at the union hall, etc....
To the #1 08/14, I have a question. In your experience, does Winnie treat us all as badly as you state or does he treat you badly because you're a Judas? I regurlary work for m union but I don't try to make it about me. I make it about the work and the work is making things better for my family and me. In society, there are always going to be a few who are non-conformist's or who have to blaze their own path. Some of you who work here are no different. With that being said, don't think that what you're saying or what you're doing hasn't been tried before. The true believers have broad shoulders and are strong enough to carry all of you who do no more than to have union dues deducted from your paycheck's. That would be those of you who have never paid your 'dues'.
"Truly I say to you that this very night, before a rooster crows, you will deny Me three times."
Sound familiar?
Received via Email 08-14-08 I heard that the union filed a greivance yesterday over the back pay that the medics got screwed out of. Hell yeah! I'm not a medic but know that if the city asked Large and Wimberly their opinion, they would have told them that it cost's too much. I guess it's coming out of YOUR paycheck. FTM
Received via Email 08-14-08 To the #1 poster on 8/14, what is the 2.5% you are referring to? You mention the possibility of having to leave with 10+ years and having only 2.5% for it. I am confused. Maybe you are too. Then you seem to think that you did not win a COLA or receive an improvement to your pension. I dont know if you are aware but a COLA IS a pension improvement. I love all these, "the city was gonna give it to us anyway", believers. On the day the City says they are gonna give it to us, watch your ass because that's what they will be after. Good luck to all you that believe that the City is the tooth fairy while the union is the bad guy, someday real soon you are most likely going to find out first hand. FTM....
Received via Email 08-15-08 I can see it now. Fire the 3 principal officers in the union and the city will open up the treasure chest. I'll bet the mayor will forget that we beat the shit out of his council picks, last year too. All we'll have to do now is get used to standing on the corner holding the enemy's sign just like Feinberg did last election. What a douche!
Received via Email 08-15-08 I've always been impressed with the depth of knowledge and the depth of devotion of people who have never in their lives been to a union meeting or lifted a finger to help any one of us (not to mention themselves) out! I guess it's better to listen to a couple of scared guys with some bugles on their shirt, set you straight with the "facts." Why do you think they say it's lonely at the top? Because they are beholding to a politician for their existense! The same guys that so many of you look up to are the same ones who care more about saving the city some money by doing away with EMT pay, Tech pay and Medic back pay then taking care of the troops. What kind of spiff do THEY get in their paychecks at the end of the year?
Received via Email 08-15-08 Now I know where all spies come from. The ranks of those sucking around fire chiefs.
Received via Email 08-16-08 8.15.08 - #2 "existance" It's "existance" not "existence". It's amazing how many filth words get spelled correctly on this site and yet the simplest of words get misspelled all the time. Kinda speaks to the educational quality received over the years by those who are supposedly qualified high school graduates.
TEAM: Uhhh.... pardon the intrusion but it's spelled E-X-I-S-T-E-N-C-E. There's no 's' and there's no 'a'. You were 'both' close.
Received via Email 08-17-08 It has a "S". 8-16-08 is a jackass.
TEAM: Yes, it has (1) one. Just one.
Received via Email 08-18-08 1st 8/16, you seem real educated. The word "kinda" is a new one. I always thought it was kind of. You are truly a genious. Kinda like some of our officers, blasting others and not knowing what the heck you are talking about. Keep up the grammer checks sir genious!!
Received via Email 08-18-08 For 8-18, number 1:
Oh, what irony! A pithy, self important know it all comes in here correcting grammar when everyone knows full well that correcting things in here is MY job! Oh, the audacity! The pure cockiness! Correct away, my friend. But correct well and correct correctly.
First, the word "kinda" is not new. Perhaps if you had read a book or two in your lifetime you would have become familiar with it. It is an acceptable slang term that serves as an adverb. Please deal with it as best you can and perhaps in time you will become less fearful and more in touch with your native written language.
The most laughable irony was your use of the word "genius." If you are going to mock someone by calling them a genius, you should probably learn to correctly spell the noun with which you choose to belittle them. Do you understand, genius? Can you see how that works? I just called you a genius, even though it is obvious you are not, nor ever will be one.
Maybe you can't grasp this. I expect you are struggling with all this new information, so let me try to lower to your level, if only for a moment or two. You are a dooosh back. Do you see how my slur towards you acts as a double edged sword and slices through my credibility as it exposes what may very well be the truth about you? Spelling and syntax are important. If you are attempting to look smarter than someone else, don't expose your own illiteracy at the same time. Obviously, you are not a "dooosh back" because there is no such thing. Instead it is obvious that the term "douche bag" is a much better description for you.
I hope all this information helps. I would hate to see you continue to expose the depth of your unenlightenment.
Please accept this little gift as it was intended: An indicator that even though I am more intelligent than the average human being, you are far inferior.
Thank you for your rapt attention to the parts of this that you could at least partially understand. Kinda.
Grammar Guy
cc: Spelling Guy
TEAM: We think that Grammar Guy really is that 'other' guy!
Okay, here's a thought. The TEAM's been sent an email request. The person making the request asked if it would be possible print some of Officer Einstein's emails -- but in return, he first, must post the name of the department that he works for. He doesn't have to tell us his rank -- just the name of his department.
Received via Email 08-18-08 Team, Officer Einstein could lie about his or her department if he or she was that smart.
TEAM: To be sure...
Received via Email 08-18-08 Hey grammar guy. "Maybe you can't grasp this." Nice imcomplete sentence, it appears you received your grammar lessons from Boley. Keep working on your corrections, you are a laugh for us all.
Received via Email 08-18-08 Officer know it all was a plant. JL and JW sent this ringer to the website to take the heat off of them. Please......... back to our normal program.......... bashing the douche' bags that run the plantation.
Received via Email 08-19-08 8-18, #4: My sentence structure is fine, but thanks for playing. Regarding your complaint I think we all know what you are "grasping" right now, don't we? When you try to imagine what I look like, do you envision me naked? I think we all know the answer to that one as well.
See you in class. I'll be teaching, you will be facing the corner while wearing the pointy cap. Just like always.
Best wishes to all,
Grammar Guy
Received via Email 08-19-08 what does any of this have to do with the "Contract"? Can we stay focused on the topic of this section? All this other stuff should be in the bullshit section.
Received via Email 08-21-08 Grammar Guy, you forgot to put your full name. Gay Grammar Guy.
Received via Email 08-23-08 I voted against the contract, therefore I dont have to accept the parts I don't like. They aint getting my time.
TEAM: Good knowing you...
Received via Email 08-23-08 At least Tampa went to City Council. We were to afraid. That's why Tampa has what they have and we have what we have. They deserve it.
Received via Email 08-23-08 Thats right, they went to council to see if their hard work in the elections paid off and it did for them. We had a majority of pu**ies that probably did not help our council, vote yes for a P.O.S. contract. Stop bitching since you voted the contract in or go to tampa. I am done helping in elections if we are not going to test the waters. To hell with pool time too.
Received via Email 08-23-08 I can't believe the amount of bitching and whining on here about the ratification of the contract and the "donating" of 5 hours of pool time by each member. One person has apparently actually DROPPED OUT OF THE UNION because of it. I can't help thinking that those who cry are only a very small percentage of the entire organization. It would look like the vast majority of the members are quite satisfied with their approval vote. It's unfortunate that the only way to prevent "donating" to the pool time account is to withdraw from the Local. For those who choose that route the rest of us wave a fond farewell and will continue to represent you as long as you are here. To the brother who points to Tampa's success due to political activity you're missing one very important point. Tampa has had many more political successes than we have and it's taken them years to get to the point they now enjoy. We have only ONE political success and it was somewhat watered down since one of the officials was related to a high officer in the Local. But a "win" is a win. I think the team was a little reluctant to test the water so soon after claiming victory. We need a few MORE wins under our belt before we can meet the level of Tampa politically. Realistically there's never been a worse time to negotiate pay or anything else with the city. They have an overtaxed, insurance poor, and pissed off public on their side. Anything that runs on taxes is being crucified right now. Since we know we can't expect too much from the city in pay and benefits why not turn our attention to politics. Don't sit there and bitch about how much Tampa gets. They did their homework and now it's paying off. Instead we need to do some homework of our own. Follow Tampa's lead and learn from them. Dropping out of the union isn't the answer. Bitching about pool time isn't the answer. Not helping in elections isn't the answer. We have a long way to go. Even though we've been politically active (wink-wink) just a long as Tampa we still don't have the ability to show the same results. The biggest reason for that will be clear if you take time to look at what Tampa FD has done over the years as compared to what St. Pete. FD has done. We need to get to work. Why beat our heads against the wall for pay and benefits we won't get when we could be gearing up with a plan that will prepare us for the next few elections in a way that's never been seen before. Believe it. We're gonna need it. And there may be situations in the future that will go before council and be decided in OUR favor.
Always there,
THE CONSCIENCE
TEAM: Age-wise, we're a one hundred year old department populated by members of a union born during WWII. To say we're a bit 'thick-headed' might be an understatement. Because much of our membership won't participate in union activities allowing them to learn how to mold their own destinies, many are relegated to reading about potential union success' --- in the newspaper! Those who leave this union over five hours of pay that's converted to time that supports their efforts, will undoubtedly show more creativity in that single act than they've ever shown in their entire union lives!
Received via Email 08-23-08 Well, maybe if our union leadership collected dirt on people like I am sure tampa does and uses it against them maybe we would have a better contract. I cannot believe that nobody knew of the Bryan thing. We could have used that against him.
Received via Email 08-23-08
Posted by ( cookiegirl ) on August 23, 2008 at 10:37 a.m.
I would gladly pay for at least 4 occupations without gripe: fire, police, doctors/nurses, & teachers. No matter what they asked for in compensation, I would vote to give them whatever they ask, because those are occupations I can't live without. For those of you who are complaining, especially Light_of_Reason, you should have watched the City Council meeting yesterday. The entire thing was on tv. The Union's economist brought up the fact that in the beginning of FY08, the City's Administration earmarked over $3 million for Fire, yet at the end of FY08 (Sept 30, 2008), nothing has been spent, yet they refused to give Fire their raise. THEY HAVE THE MONEY already earmarked; they just don't want to release it. Anything left in that fund at Yr-end will be rolled into the City's general fund. They just don't WANT TO spend it on Fire. That did not sit well with the City Council. When the City's slide didn't show that $3 million but the Union's graphs did, everyone wondered where that money was hidden. It just proved that the City was playing "hide and seek" with money they didn't want to part with, and it showed the citizens that all is not what it seemed. That is what led to the City's downfall and probably the biggest reason the Firefighter's won their battle. Maybe if City Administration learned to tell the truth and be upfront and stop lying to its constituents, then things wouldn't become so heated. Firefighters deserved what was earmarked for them. Even with this raise, they are still well below other agencies of comparable size in the state. If you don't believe me, just get transcripts of the City Council meeting from yesterday. It's all there.
These comments were found below the article. If you'll look closely at what's being said (read between the lines) you'll see that the same "shabily dressed economist" and the same "poorly spoken labor attorney" that 'we' used during our own impasse hearing, were at work for the Tampa Fire Union. Tampa's Fire Union won on all counts because they did their homework and because they had their politics in order. Being a powerful labor orgaization doesn't come cheap. You've got to stop entertaining fire chief's who will never, ever do anything for anybody but themselves and you've got to roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty! The city of Tampa used the same attorney that the city of Clearwater has lost with on multiple occassions. We've got no one to bitch at but our own lazy membership.
PS - Impasse hearings don't happen every day. Every labor organization should have had a representative in the audience, yesterday. Your union president got there early and parked his ass in the same room (not the overflow room) as the action. Your beloved fire chief, James Large was no where to be found!
Received via Email 08-23-08 Tampa apparently had many members of that council who are either running for mayor or are up for re-election and it was publically announced that if they did not give them what they wanted or close to it, it would be political suicide in the upcoming elections for them. Yes, we need to dig dirt and work harder, but they were partly in the right place at the right time!
TEAM: But isn't it nice to know that someone is looking out for you by watching the political calendar and anticipating the many permutations that the political landscape can take on?
Received via Email 08-23-08
Posted by ( jamesmoody ) on August 23, 2008 at 11:46 a.m.
"Can the City afford this?"
Well isn't that the big question? Mayor Pam has cried poor mouth while axing City positions, most (but not all) of which were already vacant. The fact is, Tampa is doing much better than most and it was proven by THE FIREFIGHTERS ECONOMIST. When City Council started grilling City officials about the actual numbers, all they could do was stutter. They were a laughing stock because they got caught in their own lies and shell game. It was pathetic see see the highly paid big guns of the COT stutter and stumble under the hard and direct questioning by the City Council once the Council had the real facts.
Even within these current increases, Tampa firefighters will still be near the bottom of the pay scale in comparison to other Florida departments their size and many local departments. Tampa firefighters were not asking to be the best paid, just to be treated fair and the City Council easily saw through the City's false propaganda the Tribune itself has been guilty of distributing.
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I guess it doesn't matter how shabily he dresses. He did what he was paid to do! Bravo Tampa Fire Union!
Received via Email 08-23-08 To the editor....Absolutely. The union is essential and Tampa would have never gotten where they are now without it. If people in the union here would devote the same amount of time to union activities as they do to writing garbage and flapping their jaws we may actually accomplish something. A few people cannot do it all.
TEAM: True enough. No crybabies, no fire chiefs hiding in the next room during an impasse hearing. Top to bottom union men and women with no double-agents working solo.
Received via Email 08-24-08 To 8/23 #4, how many damn wins do you want before we test the waters. I thought that is why we worked so hard to get them in was to use that to our advantage. How bout we wait another 18 mos before settling on a contract. Waiting really helped out this time jackass!!
Received via Email 08-24-08 Wow, president Newton was at the Tampa Firefighters Impasse, hmmmm without using pool time, yet the State Union Rep - MM was no where to be found. Great support their Dickie !!
#2 - 08/24/08
"how many damn wins do you want before we test the waters."
Received via Email 08-23-08 More than one, actually. With only one vote hopefully all of the time ... and one vote most of the time ... and all the rest NEVER it's hard to imagine what there was to be accomplished by testing the water. We had a slim to none chance of matching what Tampa did. You can't throw your allies under the bus over something that can't be won. Tampa has enough council members on their side to influence the outcome. All we have right now is potential. Over many years while SPFR was giving lip service to the political activities needed Tampa was actually in the trenches getting the job done. Tampa has earned what they got and they did it by investing the time and resources needed to win political races in their city. I hate to be the devil's advocate here but name me one person who we helped actually get elected to the city council EVER in the history of the Local. Up until we "helped" Winnie's brother get elected there has NEVER, EVER been a council person elected through the help of Local 747. And now it would seem there are a few who would think that because we had one shaky success at political activities we somehow carry a big club around with us. No so people. Again, and I'm going to say it over and over, we MUST put our sights on the Mayor candidate before anything else. If we aren't careful and paying close attention we are in line for another four years of the same hatred from city hall that we now enjoy. They're grooming a clone down there and we need to work to defeat him. And hopefully over the next three to five years we can be influential enough in the elections to seat two or three more "friends". Then we can test the water. The Mayor pulls the strings on each and every one of the council members. Oh yes he does. That's why it's so important to have one on our side. If we can't get one elected that can be sympathetic to our needs then we need to work even harder to see that the one backed by the city and the Times DOESN'T GET ELECTED.
Always there,
THE CONSCIENCE
TEAM: Don't forget the "Coach."
From the McKenzie camp:
McKenzie sign waving schedule-- I need your help please
Hi,
On MONDAY and TUESDAY I am setting up sign waving in St Pete. We are all feeling the new buzz so let's mobilize!
Please help me recruit. Send this to your lists. 7 - 9 am and 4 - 6 pm Monday and Tuesday.
In order of importance:
31st St S and 54th Ave. S (Albertson's)
9th St S and 22nd Ave. S (Atwater's/Walgreen's)
49th St S. and 22nd Ave. S
22nd Ave. S and 31st S S (Church's)
Thanks,
Linda
TEAM: Charles McKenzie dropped in our union meeting last month and the membership was most impressed with his dedication to the union cause. He's been an educator for all of his life and he's been an active union member during that time. He's running against Darryl Rouson for House seat 55. We can help to advance his cause and that of our own if we can commit to a few hours in the next couple of days.
Received via Email 08-23-08 Here is an important fact that has been left out of the recent praises to our Brothers and Sisters of TFD. THEY ALL CONTRIBUTE POOL TIME HOURS THROUGH A CONTRACTUAL AGREEMENT.....AND THEY DO NOT HAVE A STUPID FIRE ADMIN MANDATE TO ENABLE THEM TO OPT OUT. Yes they do things differently over there, obviously for the better.
Received via Email 08-26-08 Dont you love the folks who get into trouble and grieve their punishment only to see the union fight their hardest (using pool time to get them off the hook) then the same folks turn on the union and don't want to give 5 hours a year. AMAZING!! Never underestimate the stupidity of some firefighters. Of course Fire Admin is against giving the 5 hours. They would love to rule with an unfair iron hand and not give you the chance to have union representation. Are you all - that are considering opting out really that stupid or just that ignorant? Either way, you better think this thing through !!!!
Received via Email 08-26-08 Would someone please clarify the pool time clause in the contract? If the contract calls for a mandatory donation of 5 hours of vacation time from every member to be used as pool time by the Local, then how can the fire administration provide a method for opting out of the contract language? Is the opt out language in the contract too? If not the contract language takes precedent and the opt out language is just bullshit. For the administration to undermine the contract is a clear unfair labor practice. I would expect to see the paperwork filed ASAP. Please clear this up for us all.
Received via Email 08-26-08 And we thought that the Callahan administration held all the liars, cheaters and thieves. Boy were we wrong. This chief is in the pocket of the mayor just the the chief in Charleston SC.
Received via Email 08-26-08 Hey Mr. Webmaster, any possible way you could start a countdown clock for Bigbirds departure, not like I'm looking forward to that, well just maybe a little.
TEAM: Yes. We'll scout around for a date to use. If someone else comes up with it before us, let us know...
Received via Email 08-26-08 Here is an important factoid for the Fienberg Opt Out Losers (FOOLS). Dont be in such a hurry to blame the Pool time Opt-Out language on the union. The articles for the pool time presented by the union, NEVER included an Opt-Out provision. ALL of the Opt-Out language came from your friends on the City's side of the table. When asked why it was put in, the City Negotiator replied that it was the wishes of Fire Administration. Yes I said it right ALL of the language is Fire Admin's doing.
TEAM: Shhhhhhhhh...
Received via Email 08-29-08 I think we're learning more and more, each day, that there's a lot of dirty dealing going on in that fire chief's office. I've never missed seeing a chief come into the station on a Friday. This one either.
Received via Email 08-30-08 Yeah, great, just opt out and then there will be no pool time for the Union staff, then we you are treated unfairly by Management and need help, (Sorry) there will be no time available to help your sorry ass. Are you folks, that are opting out really that dumb or just bored because you have nothing at the moment to bitch about !! Think it out Moroons !!!! Your only screwing yourself !!
Received via Email 08-31-08 I hear that the Fienberg Opt-Out Losers (FOOLS) are just making their point. It appears that they are alll going to opt out and then turn around and donate 24 hours each at a later date. Hey I'm holding my breath, but being an avid swimmer and diver I can do this a little bit longer than the average. I hope I dont have to set any new world records.
Received via Email 09-03-08 2 "appears" that they are alll going to opt out and then turn around and donate 24 hours each at a later date". Yeah right! We'll believe that when we see it!!!
TEAM: Oh yea of little faith...
Received via Email 09-06-08 While we're wasting valuable time and effort fighting to extract a measly 5 hours from our members to fight the MUTTS, the MUTTS are now going to FORCE us to sign physical papers that the US Government says are ILLEGAL. Folks we need to wake up and keep our eyes on the ball. Those of you who are scabbing out on the rest of us, watch your backs. I damn sure won't be.
Received via Email 09-10-08 How many people haven't gotten their physical lately because they refuse to sign away all their rights? I hear that there's about a dozen people who have to go back, including 1 officer.
Received via Email 09-10-08 Well, I guess the mayor screwed over the retirees again. He turned down the pension board's recommendation for a 3% COLA. I don't get it. RF said there's no need to negotiate for a COLA when the mayor could just give you one. Hmmmmm...........
Received via Email 09-10-08 For you union bashers out there, just look around you. The administration here is getting just as bad as that of Clearwater. They're all backstabbers beholding to the mayor. FTM.
Received via Email 09-11-08 To 9/9/08 This physicals thing is about to come to a head. There is a group that's now being forced to go back to take they're physicals because Baycare turned them away the first time. They chose not to sign their lives away like mindless drones. They are all being told that if they don't fill out all the paperwork and sign all the pages that they will be charged with insubordination. Large will tell you that taking a physical is a benefit. There has never been a time that this city every gave you anything from free that could be called a benefit. Ask Rob Dobbins. They treated him like shit because he couldn't pass the free physical that is supposed to be a "benefit." It's a benefit all right. A benefit to workers comp. FTM
Received via Email 09-14-08 who do you all think baycare is going to give our information too exactly. How many years has the wording bee the same and have any of you had issues with your info. in five years I haven't. we voted for the physicals.
TEAM: Do Three things.
1. Go to IAFF747.org and log in. Go to 'Downloads' and then find NFPA 1582. Read it and understand it.
2. Go to the city's K drive and download the forms that you'd use to take your physical. Read them and understand them.
3. Go to the city's web site and see if you can find a single document that remotely resembles an attempt by management to fight to protect you and your rights.
If you've been here for a period of five years, you're probably not stupid. You're just ignorant! Participation by payroll deduction of dues is not enough. Go to the next union meeting and learn how to pay your dues! Learn what you need to know to survive a system that is slanted against you -- a system that treats you like an indentured servant. Learn to know when you're being played by those in management who need, want and desire your approval more than you'll ever need theirs. Learn to recognize and report to your union, tactics utilized by management that rely on fear and intimidation rather than genuine need.
Received via Email 09-14-08 Why opt out and then donate 24 hours later. Either that is a dumb f**kin rumor, which is very possible, or it is the truth. WTF
Received via Email 09-14-08 rumor or truth now there is a brainstem talking.
Received via Email 09-14-08 Talk about running a game on us. The forms that you download arent' even the same ones that Baycare uses when you get there. This fire administration has its head so far up city hall's all that you can't trust a single thing that they say. I wonder how many at HQ actually go to take a physical that someone else pays for and totally controls? You can bet your ass that if they get the choice of losing their job because of a company physical or spending $25 copay to go to their own doctor, they'll go to their own doctor. Fags.
Received via Email 09-17-08 Does the union have an attorney on retainer and if so. Can the members avail themselves of his services if needed? Maybe if we start sticking it down their throats then thats a start.
Received via Email 09-17-08 Is there a good reason to vote YES for either of the latest screwings the city has sent our way? If there are no other issues besides the 2 1/2% and the sick leave (which both suck out loud) why would we vote YES for either of them?
Thank you, no. Next offer please.
Received via Email 09-19-08 Got my ballot today...NO on both. Next!
Received via Email 09-19-08 Bobby Martin is my new hero! FTM
Received via Email 09-19-08 I haven't been feeling really well in the past few weeks. Can anyone tell me where I can get a physical for really cheap? I don't want to pay the $25 co-pay, I just want to breeze in and breeze out with someone else paying the bill. I'll fill out any paperwork that you put in front of me no matter how it may jeapardize me or my health. That's ok because I've never seen anyone come back from a physical in a dead condition. I won't need to talk to the jw over the phone either because I've always done as I'm supposed to and don't put much thought into taking care of me. I was told that the physical was a benefit and that the city and the chiefs were just looking out for me. Who am I to question? It's free, right?
Received via Email 09-19-08 My hat's off to Bobby Martin. He's about 10 feet tall right now. Those pieces of shit in HQ should be working for the good of the dept., instead they're working for Worker's Comp. They gave him 10 shifts off because he refused to share his personal, private medical information. Everyone needs to understand that they're breaking the law and all of them should be personally sued in Federal court. You guys in HQ should use your full title when you introduce yourselves. Cheif assholes. FTM
Received via Email 09-19-08 From the Current Events Memo.
Physicals, physicals, physicals…. Where do I start or when does it end? They continue to be the largest source of concern in spite of much time and effort. Recently, there was a consultation between labor and management on the issue. Nothing new was brought forward, other than repeated concerns involving trust, conspiracy, and the big winner HIPAA. As a result, I made the decision to move forward with directives to those individuals to date who had not met the requirements of the labor agreement and completed their respective physicals. It is my sincere hope that either through the bargaining process or the expiration of the provider contract we can eliminate the concerns and the need for such directives. The required consent form of greatest concern has been modified to eliminate third party mention. I welcome any of those individuals who feel that this is somehow a violation of their rights under HIPAA to provide me with the relative portions for review. To date, our attorneys and BayCare’s have not been able to find such conflict. For those who may not know, HIPAA stands for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996.
The chief's mouth was moving again.
Received via Email 09-20-08 He's so concerned about the labor agreement when it works against US. I hear that the dickcheese that runs CFD has applied for the job in Charleston. I wonder if Large applied also. It'd be a great opportunity for him cuz he's no longer one of us. He needs to take the other Jimmy with him.
Received via Email 09-20-08 I am relatively new on the job, and I don't understand the physicals. If I have something I don't want anyone to know about, for instance if I had a depression history do I have to disclose that? The form says I do and I can be discharged for not including stuff like that no matter how embarrassing? I don't think its anyone business. Does anyone know about this stuff?
TEAM: You should always come at this thing from a position of strength. You will be told by management that participating in a physical that the city pays for is a benefit. In reality, a physical that 'you' pay for is a benefit otherwise it's a liability. The physical is not the object of their desire, rather the capturing of information to feed to Workers Comp. The only person you should talk to besides your own civil attorney, should be your Union President.
Received via Email 09-20-08 Why should I have to divulge my medical information to Baycare (or the city) at all? If I have skin cancer, venereal warts or take beta blockers; that is none of their business. Go ahead and listen to my lungs, make sure I can see, hear, and touch my toes. That's fine. But I am not telling you my personal shit. Baycare's form requires that I include all of that, and threatens me if I don't do it. I am not going to falsify so I shall continue to cross out the appropriate lines and initial. If I get time off for protecting my privacy I hope the city can afford to pay what the judge will say I am due. Fuck them.
TEAM: Yeah, Fuck them!
Received via Email 09-21-08 Dont you just love our new administration at Fire HQ, dufo #1 and dufo #2. Both need to go work and sell cars or insurance, because both dont know what the hell they are doing and then they lie their a-- off about each new car they sell. Wow, what a great team of leaders we have!! I think there are some "no credit needed" "low end car sale" lots on 34th st. They would be a great place for them to work. They can keep their bugles so that they can feel important as they screw the customers!! They're using the same tactics just a different occupation.
Received via Email 09-21-08 "It is my sincere hope that either through the bargaining process or the expiration of the provider contract we can eliminate the concerns and the need for such directives."
Jimmy Large you are so full of shit. We can bargain till we're blue in the face, but as long as YOU, your boss the MAYOR, HR and the LEAGUE OF CITIES are all on the same page, I don't see us getting away from being forced to give up our private information (short of personally suing all of you) any time soon!
Answer me this. What will change if the contract with Baycare expires? Nada. You keep throwing them under the bus as if for the $90,000 a year that the city PAYS THEM........ THEY are somehow in charge. Since when does Baycare get to define how forms that are used to dredge up personal information about our health, will appear? I'll be damned, but if I were paying for a product, I'd have no problems demanding my own guidlines. Truth be told, the physical is a mere formality. The information that gets captured on the forms is the brass ring that the city is looking for. We've had members refuse to put a single piece of information on the forms and defy the doctor to give them a physical without that information. Holy shit! What do you know? They always got a physical!
So what's changed? Baycare's now demanding that we fill out the forms? Bullshit. The city and Baycare got together and decided on a game plan. Question: Why wasn't Baycare invited to this Labor/management meeting? Were you afraid that they'd spill the beans if grilled by the union?
Batman and the boy wonder lose credibility with each passing day.
The emperor has no clothes, folks.
Received via Email 09-22-08 Hey Mr. Webmaster. Why don't you call this website The New Fort Apache'?
TEAM: If we'd changed something then it might be appropriate. The dept. has changed and maybe that moniker would be more appropriate, there.
Received via Email 09-22-08 Bobby Martin might not be the only one who refuses to give up his liberties. There are others out there who ought to get together and form a class action lawsuit.
Received via Email 09-23-08 The First Amendment of the Constitution:
CONGRESS SHALL MAKE NO LAW RESPECTING AN ESTABLISHMENT OF RELIGION, OR PROHIBITING THE FREE EXERCISE THEREOF; OR ABRIDGING THE FREEDOM OF SPEECH, OR OF THE PRESS; OR THE RIGHT OF THE PEOPLE PEACEABLY TO ASSEMBLE, AND TO PETITION THE GOVERNMENT FOR A REDRESS OF GRIEVANCES.
The Bill of Rights to the U.S. Constitution was ratified on December 15, 1791
"Censorship reflects a society's lack of confidence in itself. It is a hallmark of an authoritarian regime . . . ." - Supreme Court Justice Potter Stewart, dissenting Ginzberg v. United States, 383 U.S. 463 (1966)
Think about what is going on behind closed doors at Fire HQ. Is it to preserve the above amendment?
or is it to continue with THEIR agenda ? That amendment came at a great cost, don't let it be taken away brothers and sisters.
Received via Email 09-23-08 Whats wrong with a moniker? I would trust the Nazis over our admin. At least we wouldn't have any JWs in the crowd.
Received via Email 09-23-08 You guys don't get it. HQ staff doesn't work for you, you work for the HQ staff. This is the department that all other departments want to be like (Heil Hitler). There are no more fire chiefs in St. Petersburg. Only the Eckerd College School of Shortcuts, fire administrators. Praise the League of Cities. They've trained our fire adminisTRAITORS, well.
Received via Email 09-23-08 These chiefs have gotten so far away from where they should be that they're so much like made men for the Mafia or something. They aren't allowed to stick they're big toe in, they've got to get in all the way. They have nothing in common with those of us who save lives for a living that they shouldn't be allowed to step into a fire station. It must be swell to go home every night knowing that everyone thinks you're a dick. Well, everyone except the guys looking to get promoted. Just ask any of them...... they'll tell you you're great. FTM
Received via Email 09-24-08 Hey Minnerly...whats with your daily MF'n you spew about the union. If I was as miserible as you I would get out while the gettins good. What's the matter Budtalion one won't hire you either? I guess he can spot a POS even from way down there. Go ahead and continue your Bullshit but get used to your Union asking for help with your future, it will never get better with attitudes like yours. Is this what's also happening in the other areas of your life too? Keep studying, your almost there. A couple more sessions with the troubled Moore family and you might be ready to fill his under drawers when we finally get rid of his sorry ass. Its really a shame, we finally have an opportunity to get rid of 15 really f**ked up old timers and somehow they have 25 blinded fools f**kin themselves and each other over, to take their places.
Received via Email 09-24-08 I was at Eckerd drug store, I mean cvs pharmacy, to get one of those fire chief diplomas on isle 2. To bad I was out of toilet paper, I'll be getting mine on our next payday with that fat new raise were getting. Never knew 2.5% would cover so much, what a bargain store. Thanks shitty of St. Pete.
Received via Email 09-25-08 Minnerly needs to get his mind right. Its not entirely his fault, he had way too many alcohol induced leaders during his childhood years. A beer keg in the family room is not a common site in most peoples homes. I just hope he grows up someday soon.
Received via Email 09-25-08 Talking about his shitting on the union is only going to get him promoted quicker. Management has a keen eye for the weak minded, bootlicker types. Look at the current selection that we've got to choose from. I personally don't talk to do-boys.
Received via Email 09-25-08 Many of our sots will never find the diplomas in aisle 2, unless they take the wrong way to the beer cooler. There is always enough of a raise for another beer, now I can buy a 24 pack case instead of the 12 pack.
Received via Email 09-26-08 I know a slave ship pulled up to the docks a few weeks ago. When do the new slaves make it to the stations?
Received via Email 09-28-08 Dont forget to return your ballots. I hear this one is going to give me my choices on how I want to use my sick time, how much I can get paid, and maybe even if I want to continue coming to work. How much better can it get than that? Woo Hoo
Received via Email 09-29-08 I hope you all voted this insult of a contract proposal down. The city's looking to dump $50 million into the pier and you and I don't deserve a 3% pay raise. http://www.tampabays10.com/news/local/story.aspx?storyid=90949&catid=8 In the article, they're trying to make you think that they just came up with the idea. They tipped their hand a long time ago. I did a search right here on this website and look what our webmaster had to say about this: http://usvsthem.homestead.com/NegoLatest.html "One might find this bitter pill easier to swallow if the City of St. Petersburg were in dire straights. But it's not. The good Mayor has proffered his $5.4 million dollar, millage rate reduction to City Council. He's set aside $50 million dollars to rebuild the Pier. The yacht basin is being readied for a $6 million dollar recharge and there's $10 million dollars in the emergency fund - not to mention the fact that the city issued permits for $413,000,000.00 in new construction last year!" That was July 2006.
Long range planning doesn't involve labor. Labor=Slaves.
TEAM: Good use of the search box on the index page!
Received via Email 09-29-08 Like the good ole days. Slavery gets stuff done.
TEAM: It's how the NWO gets stuff done. For now...
Received via Email 10-02-08 Any one know how the vote turned out? I am hoping for a little more cash since our chow just increased at station #.
TEAM: And so you shall have it! A little more cash.
Received via Email 10-04-08 Your chow went up? Why dont you opt out and not pay your fair share. Thats what I did.
Received via Email 10-06-08 Opting out is like sticking your own finger down your throat and vomiting after just eating a nice meal ! Problem is - once you opt out and get on the list - you can't put the vomit back in your stomach. What a bunch of dumb losers !!!!
Received via Email 10-07-08 Don't get me wrong, I am dead against opting out.... but I do not get the vomiting metaphor at all. Gross.
Received via Email 10-07-08 10-7 you dont get it because you cant imagine opting out. Believe me, the ones who opted out get it. And they still are a bunch of pukes!
Received via Email 10-10-08 Opting out isn't like sticking your finger in your throat. It's more like sticking your finger in another dude's ass since it's strictly for fags.
Thank you, Pilgrim.
John Wayne
Received via Email 10-10-08 A recent survey showed that 96% of all members that opt out of paying dues are queer. And not just regular queer, they are super queer. They won't look you in the eye, instead they stare at your package. The are always looking for excuses to touch other dudes and their computers are loaded with child porn. All but one of them uses their asshole as a purse, and the other one mumbled something about hiding dog treats there. It was amazing how conclusive this survey was and we on the survey board want to thank those of you "opt outers" for your honesty and cooperation when we were compiling the information for our review. Now that the survey is complete, you opt outers can all go fuck yourselves. Thanks for nothing, douche bags.
Screw you opt outers. All of you sons of bitches.
John McBride
Popular Cocktease
Received via Email 10-17-08 Have you all seen the latest memo dealing with online CME's? Bill Ward (we'll call him Brave Heart) just threw this out there. Check out the last lines:
"Therefore, personnel shall be required to complete online CME classes in either the initial month that it is offered or the following month. Failure to complete the classes within this time-frame will result in progressive disciplinary action. Extenuating circumstances shall be dealt with on an individual basis."
Some balls heh? We never heard a peep from this Mother F**ker through his whole career (except for the sucking sounds) and now he's looking for the next bus to throw us all under. Apparently now that we've got a contract under our belt for the next couple of years, it's game on for the assholes. I called this evening to see if we had a quarum at the union meeting. I am on duty so I couldn't attend. THERE WAS NO QUARUM BECAUSE EVERYTHING'S FU**ING PERFECT. Only through union action will this shit with all these homegrown non-union assholes, stop! I hope to see you all holding a political sign before election day. FTM - chief kid, prince and brave heart
Received via Email 10-17-08 Some think that Wimberly is the only bad apple in the bunch. His role is no different that that of Jolley, when the Drunk was the chief. The chief shoves the shit down the hall, then the assistand chief shoves it out the door. The difference here is that Wimberly is totally loving it because he knows he's a total control freak. Hopefully with a new mayor and council members that we can work to get into office, we can keep a lid on Wimberly and shop around for a new chief when Large has had enough. Wimberly cannot be allowed to run this department. He's 10 times more dangerous than that asshole in Clearwater.
Received via Email 10-17-08 Remember, a very controlling person is controlling because he can't manage his own inner self. Hmmmmm, wonder why?? Can anyone say, this little squirrel is over his head !! Just sit back and enjoy the show. Its much better than thinking you are actually a part of his stupidity.
Received via Email 10-17-08 With the cost of lead, I can't even imagine shooting either of these assholes at sunrise.
Received via Email 10-17-08 they do make ceramic bullets you know.
Received via Email 10-17-08 Ha ha ha ha ha. "Sunrise." Must be a firing squad for high treason!
Received via Email 10-18-08 Step right up and watch the greatest show on earth, the SPFR circus, starring prince bobo and his prize clowns. While the toughest acts happen everyday on the street, the clowns keep making us laugh. We need something to laugh at, especially when we are in the street doing the tough job we all do everyday and night. Prince Bobo, your funny !! Maybe, we should get a note from all the patients and victims we attend to, of course, to prove we are really doing our job in the street. Wow, with a thought like that, I could even join the clown show and be a div chief.
Received via Email 10-22-08 Wow, this new ass. chief JOW, is he a new guy from up north that has come down here to bring his foreign policies or is he just a new chief no one likes. Regardless, I am glad I don't work for a--hole chiefs like that. Our city and chiefs actually care and back our firefighters and families. To bad for St. Pete. Great Department, but sorry chiefs. Good luck in the future brothers and sisters, sounds like your are going to need it !!
Received via Email 10-26-08 Isnt there a tall oak tree somewhere?
Received via Email 10-30-08 Last night a space ship landed in my backyard. A ramp dropped down and Tom Cruize and Barak Obama got onboard. A voice came over a loudspeaker looking for it's missing third passenger. "Earthlings. We are looking for one of our lost members who has mistakenly been living among you. Do you know where Jim Wimberly is?"
Received via Email 10-31-08 The voice you heard over the louspeaker was the Wizard, I mean Jimmy Large. Tell me when the ship leaves. I've been off on S/L, avoiding a department physical.
Received via Email 10-31-08 How does the crazy scientologist fit in with the JWs besides both being crazy?
Received via Email 10-31-08 Space ship. That's some pretty funny shit. I was thinking that when mayor asshole is termed out that that would give Large a chance to toss the boy wonder to the curb. Then I thought, hell no....... why would Large to that? The boy wonder is doing such a good job as Large's bulldog, he actually makes Large look good by deflecting all the bullshit off of him. Everyone remember......... no matter how f*cked up Wimberly is, he's does so with THE FIRE CHIEF'S BLESSINGS. Neither one of them should ever be allowed into your fire station or your conversations. FTM FTJW's
Received via Email 10-31-08 There's no more Tom Kitchen's. Just big thinkers who knew better than Tom.
Received via Email 10-31-08 Nope dont think that is going to happen. Just ask the Chiefs why they are meeting with a certain mayor want to be and it is not Bill Foster. Ask the traning chief and Large why they were at his house and are talking to him. Behind our back. Get it out. Only vote for Foster. I hope our Union supports Foster.
TEAM: Who was at the meeting?
Received via Email 10-31-08 "Wow, this new ass. chief JOW, is he a new guy from up north that has come down here to bring his foreign policies or is he just a new chief no one likes."
You've never heard of Jim Wimberly? He's every bit as famous as our training chief, who is Florida's Fire Instructor of the year. Jim Wimberly is famous for shouting through a bullhorn and our training chief is famous for sucking ideas out of the head of a Seminole chief.
Two losers that need a porkchop tied around their neck's to get even the dog to pay attention to them. It's all about smoke and mirrors. And then there's my buddy............____________________________.
Received via Email 11-01-08 Why dont you ask the chiefs who were all there? See what they say. Of course they will lie. Thats a requirement to work at headquarters.
Attention:
St. Pete Beach Firefighters need your help. The Impasse Hearing has been set for Nov. 13 @ 6:30pm. We are requesting as much support as possible from FRIENDS, FAMILY, NEIGHBORS, OTHER LOCALS, BEACH RESIDENTS and anyone else that is willing to come and give up 2 hours of their time for this important event. These impasse hearings do not only effect St. Pete Beach, but could effect other surrounding departments. If the City is able to have their way with the firefighters of St. Pete Beach, you may see other departments being treated the same way we are.
Once again, please mark your calendar and save a little time to help out your fellow brothers and sisters.
When - Nov. 13 @ 6:30pm
Where - St. Pete Beach City Hall - 255 Corey Ave. St. Pete Beach - At the corner of 75th Ave and Mangrove ( right near the Corey Causeway)
ATTIRE - We are requesting a casual dress - no Union/FD shirts - We want the commission to wonder how many of the people at the hearing are residents as opposed to FF's
After party at Philthy Phil's - to either celebrate a victory or drown our sorrows!
Thank you for your support.
Received via Email 11-04-08 Shit, I nor most of my Brothers and Sisters didnt lift a finger over the past couple weeks to help with the elections for our own good. Why would I go support someone else from way out there?
TEAM: "...way out there?" Across the bridge?
Received via Email 11-05-08 The message from the poster from St. Pete Beach is sending sounds a whole lot like the message our own President Newton has been attempting to hammer into our heads during the past two years. I guess we might need to start paying attention pretty soon.
Received via Email 11-07-08 To 11/04 Your lack of support is obvious. While we don't know sho you are personally, we lump you into the same category with many others that are lazy. You and your pals don't participate in FLAME or pool time. You won't work in exchange of pool time when the president or vice president need time off, because you've always got an creative exuse. You don't show up at union meetings. You won't hold a sign for the politicians that we support. You've never had a post hole digger in your hands. You've never pulled weeds at the union hall or even emptied the trash cans. You scab out on the pool time account and when your tit's in a wringer, your surprised to find that the guy trying to get your punishment reduced to a letter in your file is on pool time. What really amuses me are they guys who always say, "I don't need thr unions help, I never get into trouble". Recently some of you HAVE been in trouble. You don't need to go looking for it, Wimberly and Large will bring it to you but your too stupid to realize that. You tell all your buddies how you voted on the last contract and then we all come to find out that you didn't (and seldom do) vote at all. You're one of the guys that never attends an informational meeting and when you DO vote, you're later surprised to find that what you just voted on is nothing like what you thought you were voting on. You wonder why we don't take you seriously when your bitching. Me....... I don't even hear you.
Received via Email 11-07-08 The reason we all need to show up at SPB's impasse hearing it twofold. Sheer numbers scare the hell out of the city fathers. When we went to Largo last year, we filled the main room and another overflow room. They don't know who you are when you're all wearing the same shirt, you work there! Secondly, impasse hearings are few and far between. It's an opportunity to get a big-boy education for free. For those who care to see first hand rather than begging others for information repeatedly over your 30 year career, here's your chance to get off your ass and witness if for yourself.
Received via Email 11-07-08
Negotiations Session, City of St. Petersburg and IAFF, Local 747
To: All members
Date: Tuesday, November 18th, 2008
Time: 9:30am
Location: MSC building, (Room to be announced)
There will be a negotiations session for Overtime; this was part of the re-opener agreement that was agreed to in July with the ratification of our Collective Bargaining Agreement.
All members are encouraged to be in attendance. If you have an idea on how overtime should work, contact President Newton by using the contact us tab on the Union’s web page… www.IAFF747.com
Remember everyone is a benefactor with this issue. Lets fill the room and show the City and this Administration that this is an important issue for us.
Thank You.
Received via Email 11-18-08 NEGOTIATIONS SESSION MY ASS. I HEAR IT WAS ALL FUN AND GAMES IF YOU WERE ON THE CITIES SIDE OF THE TABLE. BUT THAT IS WHAT WE HAVE COME TO EXPECT FROM OUR GLORIOUS OVER PAID LEADERS. HEY JIMMY WHAT DO YOU DO WITH THAT $120K THEY PAY YOU? LETS SEE OMG THAT WORKS OUT TO $58.00 PER HOUR YOU MAKE. HOW DO YOU SURVIVE? IT MUST BE ALL THE CHOW MOOCHING YOU DO AT THE MFS EVERYDAY. I WONDER HOW MANY OTHER'S WOULD BE WILLING TO STEP INTO YOUR SHOES FOR ABOUT $50K LESS. DONT FORGET THE NWO IS OUT THERE AND ITS YOUR TEAM THAT IS DOING THE NURTURING. IT IS SO OBVIOUS YOUR TEAM IS HAVING SUCH GREAT PLEASURES SCREWING OVER THE TROOPS YOU DONT SEE THOSE THAT ARE SNEAKING UP ON YOUR BLIND SIDE.
November 18, 2008
St. Petersburg Association of Fire Fighters
once again declares
IMPASSE!
Received via Email 11-18-08 Can anyone tell me if these disloyal high ranking FTM pukes pay union dues?
Received via Email 11-20-08 I have it on good knowledge that none of the current Chiefs above the rank of DC pay dues to local 747. All but 1 pay retiree dues only to the IAFF. How about that, yet further proof that they have no desire to support this local. FTM
Received via Email 11-21-08 What do you mean they dont pay any dues to the Local. What the F**k is that all about. Why do we even talk to them. They are just barely a step above whale shit at the bottom of the Mariana trench. But thats only my opinion. FTM And the one that pays nothing, Thats about as bad as being an exempt special needs co-ordinator
Received via Email 11-22-08 Get over it. A chief paying union dues is an empty symbol. What is the point? They aren't going to get in any trouble, and if they did what is the union going to do for them? Find something more legit to whine about, please.
Personally, I'd rather see them drop out of the union if that's their intent. Take a look at who you got running this place and ask yourselves when you last saw a single one of them at a union meeting. They all scramble to get out of the union as fast as they can so we should start kicking them in the nutsack just as fast. From what I'm hearing, wimberly told the union officials that if they wanted to be exempt from the manditory overtime list to work on union business, they ought to retire and work full time for the union. My guess is, that if Winnie left the job and we ran his campaign for a council seat, wimberly and large would be the first heads to roll. Carefull what you ask for little jimmydouschebag.
Hey Mr. webmaster. We we use the polls page to ask the membership what they think about 3 stinking people being dismissed from the MANDITORY OVERTIME LIST?
TEAM: Yes. We can do that. Now mind you... even the MUTTS can vote, so it's not going to be 100% in one direction or the other.
TEAM: The Polls page was updated @ 1055 on 11-22-08
Received via Email 11-22-08 You guys whining about the chiefs not paying union dues would be the first ones crying about them "spying on us" if they showed up at a union meeting.
Received via Email 11-29-08 We aint got nuthin to worry about there.. The current Captains and DC spies don't show up either. They do however do a great job of sending in their do-me boys for regular recon.
Received via Email 11-30-08 If we have $900,000 budgeted for overtime, and the average member of the FD earns about 24 dollars an hour, that means that all 300 members of this department will be expected to work 125 HOURS of OT this fiscal year. That's about once a month for EVERYONE!!! Take the desk jockeys at HQ out of the mix and it's even worse for the shift people.
Feel better? Not me. If they expect me to stay for an extra 12 hours every other payday, they better start thinking about spending some of this money as incentive pay for being on call--- like they do in prevention.
We need a cap on mandatory NOW. If they mandatory someone every payday then something is seriously wrong.
Either start hiring more people, or start closing stations during non-peak times.
We need some creative thinking to fix this and all I see are dinosaurs around the table.
Didn't dinosaurs all have walnut sized brains?
Received via Email 11-30-08 To 11-30 #1 You've figgered it out! The fire chief (what's his name) and the assistant fire chief (what's his face) are systematically boning us. I don't know how either one of them can show their face to any of us because they disgust me. It's like they walk up to you with a big smile on their face and they're all skippy like a puppy and they're looking for your acceptance. F*ck that! They're like the kid in the neighborhood who steals off your front porch and then waves and smiles when he passed by your house. He's stealing from you and your family and your supposed to wave back? Again, f*ck that! I'll guarantee you that if you ask either of them about the overtime issues they'll have a song and a dance for you. Bottom line is they'll tell you that they have to run the department.
Yeah..... so what have WE done to cause US to work so much more of it than we used to? How is it that we've being manditoried on a greater basis during our our R-day cycle? Because if we do't fight them they'll continue to because they've found that they can. I thought the purpose in the R-day was to give us some additional time off? Instead, we give half of it back before the pay cycle is over. How f*cked up is that? Again, let me impress this into all your heads. Your R-dat was bargained for to make your work week shorter. Instead, they change the contract without really changing it by changing the only thing they've got left to change and that's their policies. Have you seen how many policy revisions it take that asshole [ASSHOLE] (what's his face) to get something as simple as a policy change written? What a major screw up he is. If he weren't drafted by the mayor to be the number 2 boy, I'm sure he'd be meant for greatness in private enterprise somewhere. Maybe a private scab ambulance company.
They don't even try to hide the fact that they're boning us anymore. Since when does the fire chief (what's his name) need to remind UNION MEMBERSHIP that they've got a few days left before UNION MEMBERSHIP can bow out of a NON MANDITORY POOL TIME CONTRIBUTION? The only reason that it's non manditory is that what what's his name and what's his face stuck their noses in our business. It's exactly what management wanted and some of the dumb f*cks on this job have fallen for it. Why is it that all of the DC's except for 1 have dropped out of giving to their union's future? Because they've never been worth a shit as union members since day 1. I hope the union prints up a final list and we all get to look at the glorius list of big givers. You know...... the guys you could always count on to contribute time or pull our collective fat out of the fire. The same guys who show up to build politicians sings or put them out during a sign blitz. The same guys who empty the trash when they stop by the union hall, I'm sure.
I can't wait for one of you bright eyed boys who has chosen to drop out of the NON MANDITORY POOL TIME CONTRIBUTION FUND to be rewarded by what's his face or what's his name the next time you find yourself in trouble when you dind't even know you were in trouble. It's already happening right now.
Received via Email 12-01-08 I filled out the form to get out of giving my 5 hours purely on principle. I heard one of the chiefs say that and it sounded good to me. Come to think of it, I can't recall what principal he was referring to. Come to think of it, I don't think he has any principals. Hey, are we still negotiating for anything? How can we be at impasse? Are we going to get another pay raise? Just wondering.
Signed,
Jimmy's only friend.
Received via Email 12-01-08 Since this isn't a private charity, it seems reasonable that the list of members that opted out of union pool time should be public record. How about we publish that list?
Received via Email 12-01-08 I'm a Lt. (just for a point of reference) and I'd love to work some overtime. I've got one getting ready to go to college and another one that's a couple of years behind. Is this city so broke that they can't afford to allow me to earn some of the overtme that the brand new guys are making? I just love to hear about all the o/t they're earning to buy a boat or Christmas gifts. I've got to buy school books for my daughter and Christmas gifts too. All I ever heard the chiefs say to the medics when I first came on the job was, "you're a medic but you're a FF first". Yeah, well so am I.
Received via Email 12-01-08 Dont wait for the union to produce a list, go down to HR a do a public records request.
Received via Email 12-01-08 To Jimmy's only friend - Yes, we're still bargaining. It seems that we always focus on the money and never do a great job as a local to back our union officers who stick around for the cleanup after the party is over. I dare say that wimberly wouldn't be running his mouth so much at negotiations as he has been lately if more of us showed up on a regular basis to watch him spin. He's a POS. So's your friend.
Received via Email 12-04-08 While dropping something off at the MFS today I noticed a meeting after the meeting taking place in the parking lot of Nazi HQ. I spoke with someone who told me that a secret comittee had just met to decide what they were going to do about adding a ladder truck to station 13's inventory. It seems that the secret comittee has been in place for quite some time and until recently it had been a pretty good secret. Apparently Capt. Green was invited to Nazi HQ and given an opportunity to defend keeping a ladder truck at station 9. I'm sure that in the day or so that he had to compile his defence the Nazi HQ staff and friends showered Capt. Green with all kinds of facts and figures from the county computer to help him out. After all, Nazi HQ wouldn't want to short change a member of their own beloved staff by shafting him or his 3 shift crews who have been together for so long. What a piece of shit fire dept. this has become.
TEAM: Legal, moral and ethical. Remove any one of the preceding and it adds up to a lack of respect. They obviously don't respect the captain or that of labor. But then again... we're not telling you anything that you didn't already know.
Received via Email 12-05-08 Predictable, illegal, amoral and unethical. Remove any one of the crooked lets and the two jimmies are still standing! They've still got untruthful, unloyal, unhelpful, unfriendly, uncourteous, unkind, unthrifty, unbrave, unclean and unreverant to prop them up. The show must go on! FTM
TEAM: Wow... we know where those came from. Ouch!
Received via Email 12-05-08 I'm sure the press both tv and newspaper and the neighborhood association of Lake Pasadena will love the fact they are losing their ladder truck that has been there since the station was built. Get ready HQ for some fun press with this one. You can play a number game all you like, but when you play with real citizens lives, you better think carefully.
