Received via Email 02.20.10 But isnt man juice a non meat product?
TEAM: We called the IAFC and they said that it can be whatever the chief wants it to be. Just what we expected. (Meat byproduct?)
Received via Email 02.21.10 To the TEAM. I am surprised that you would contact such an outdated and out of touch once looked up to group as the IAFC. Do you know that the IAFC still believes that a 5 man engine crew is the base for operating at 100% profiency, while a 3 man crew is only 38% effective? This group of believers that makes up the IAFC must be getting smaller every day.
Received via Email 02.22.10 What happen to no taxes on the middle class?
Received via Email 02.22.10 sweetness likes manjuice
Received via Email 02.23.10 Everyone at HQ is working for themselves. Everyone at the union hall is working for us. Simply put, if you're not working for us you're obviously working against us so you shouldn't bitch when we think you're all dicks.
Received via Email 02.23.10 Obama breaks another record!
According to a new Rasmussen reports poll—only 22% of Americans strongly approve of the job President Obama is doing as president. That’s the lowest in his presidency. 41% strongly disapprove—a 19 point gap. Overall his approval is floundering at only 45 percent while 54 percent disapprove.
And all of this with a level of support from the press that a Republican could only dream of. Remember the complaints about George W Bush? He was barely paying attention to what was going on. He was always on vacation playing golf. It was so prominent that Michael Moore made Bush playing golf the trailer of Fahrenheit 9-11.
Yet—in the first 9 months of his first term—Obama had already played as much golf as Bush had in almost 3 years. The media? Largely silent. Maybe they were being quiet so that they wouldn’t disturb the President’s drive on the 5th hole. Shhhhhhhhh.
But President Obama doesn’t only set records on the links (and of course, in spending.) Let’s go back to the Bush administration again. Throughout his presidency we were told by the media that his administration was far too closed. There was no access to the president. He just wouldn’t face reporters.
Fast forward to Obama. He has now broken George W Bush’s record —and has gone 216 days without a formal press conference. The last one he had? Remember the disaster of the “police acted stupidly” press conference? Now, I guess if that were my last press conference, I might go 216 days without another too. But, where is the press on this? I know they don’t care about being fair to conservatives, but shouldn’t they at least be concerned about being treated fairly themselves?
TEAM: See the fundraiser on the home page.
Received via Email 02.24.10 The funeral for retired Firefighter Bob Benedict will be at 3:30 PM on Thursday, March 4th, at St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church (3747 34th Street So. St. Petersburg Fl 33707).
In Lieu of Flowers, the family requests donations to the SPCA.
Received via Email 02.25.10 UPDATE - Robert L. Benedict - Arrangements: There will be a reception in the Church parish hall following the service.
Received via Email 02.25.10 Change that we can believe in...yea, right! $150M Anthrax Vaccine Contract Goes to Firm With Close Dem Party Ties.
Received via Email 02.26.10 Youshould rename this page to the Fox Page, its news is as bad as that network!
TEAM: You are probably right:
Received via Email 03.1.10 I guess no one wants info on HQ staff that could put them in a bad light.
TEAM: We couldn't make sense of the 'who did what' that you were talking about, later in your missive. Clearly delineate and resubmit.
Received via Email 03.3.10 Obama: 'Time to Make a Decision' on Health Care Reform. The decision has been made even by his own party and it was NO! Obama , Reid and Pelosi are too stupid to understand the word NO. They had their chance prior to January and even with the so called majority vote the democrats still couldn't pass it, and now they want to blame the Republicans for not willing to negotiate and give them what they want. What a bunch of IDIOTS!
Received via Email 03.4.10 So..., where in the world is SPFR finding all this money to be placing 4 back-up ALS engines in service all of a sudden? Hold on to your asses boys and girls, this is Chief jack-o-lanterns game now. I give the back-up story about 6 Months or the new October EMS budget, which ever comes first to be the end of the same 4 stand alone rescue trucks. W When that happens then SPFR will have come full circle. Pumkin heads daddy spent many Thousands of the taxpayers money to keep our sacred transport boxes and now along comes the Wizard and he will now spend more taxpayer dollars to but duplicate equipment to stock a 6 month program of smoke and mirror back-up units. On top of all this we are now short 2 of the older rescues because of severe cracks an such to the chassis. Now I'm back to my original question, where is SPFR coming up with all this money when we took it in the shorts last year and we are being told that this year wont be any better? Me thinks we are being played for fools big time. Oh what a tangled web Jimmy is allowing to be weaved upon us. And we finally thought we found a way to get out of riding rescue trucks.
Received via Email 03.4.10 Grappleling hooks on our fire engines!!! I cant wait for my first cat in a tree call. Thank-you SPFR for finally putting something in our tool box's that we can put to good use.
Received via Email 03.4.10 I see that escaped and on the run monkey has made it to his hoe in south st pete with all the other trouble makers.
Received via Email 03.5.10 Maybe a grappleing hook would help to catch that wayward monkey. Or maybe we could use it to tein in the Punisher. Go Bat Man...
Received via Email 03.5.10 Attention, anybody that weighs in at 225lbs or more, read that info that came with your bailout harness immeditaly. You know the papers that were being ripped off the night they were given to you and then you put them on and went out the window? Well anyways the company that builds them puts a srtict max limit on them of only 301lbs. So if you think you are safe, dont forget to factor in the weight or your PPE including your boots, gloves, hood, helmet, air pack, bottle, flashlight, portable, tools in your pockets, spanners, howd straps, been'ers, sprinkler wedges, stuff attached to your helmet, etc. You all know what I mean. If you are in the group that exceeds the 310 strict maximum limit, call this to your officers attention and ask that you be allowed to remove the harness from your gear NOW. Dont fall for the "its better than nothing" stories. Do this NOW and make sure all your brothers and sisters do the same.
Received via Email 03.5.10 Yes I saw that too, and just to set it straight it is 310 lbs. I am sure it was just a typo by the poster. Thanks for bringing this to our attention. I will bet everyone is thinking the our Department heads and the training division are always looking out for us. Maybe Chief Bruni will now figure out why FDNY took theirs off their crews a couple of years ago. All of the extra stuff we put on and carry in and on our gear weighs in at about 75 to 100 pounds. Some carry everything and I do mean everything with them, so you can see how the weight limit can become exceeded very easily.
Received via Email 03.5.10 Well there should not be any overweight firefighters at all. We have the police gym to use and the gyms in the station. And we know how to eat healthy. Firefighters with a gut hanging over their belt is not a great looking image.
Received via Email 03.5.10 Two hundred and fifty pounds is not necessarily overweight. Its the added on weight that gets put on that pushes them over the limit.
TEAM: We'd like to give an early morning shoutout to our friends at IP:86.169.238.## (British Telecommunications)
Received via Email 03.6.10 hi there
Received via Email 03.6.10 oh my gosh 250 lbs is def overweight. What Indian doctor told you that lie or was it the bag of doritos you were eating. according to the military a male should be 110lbs at 5 feet and 6 lbs for every inch tall you are. I know that sounds extreme but that would be muscle and not stomach muscle. I mean look at 4A I woked OT there and it was like a fat camp. MI is the only one woho I know there that lifts weights.
Received via Email 03.7.10 The bottom line of the matter is not if or not. The deal is expecting someone to use something that is not designed to handle the weight. When the manufacturer puts a weight limit on an item they designed and sold they usually mean it. Ignoring the rules will get you a voided warranty and a silk lined box. Now do you wish to continue with your denial, or do you wish to protect your co-workers with the knowledge that can prevent them from injury?
Received via Email 03.7.10 To the elistist misguided coward who called 4A a fat camp I challenge you this...Whenever you think you are up to it come on by...We have bike racers, a tri-athelete, a distance runner, a guy who can throw a cast net and haul crab traps all day, and a man who would probably double the number of pushups you can do. When did this place become us vs us? Next time you are at my station keep your filthy cock holster off my food and your dick skinners out of the fridge. Dont think we didnt check the log book to see who you were. Sincerely, Chris Tidwell
"As a fire service professional I am puzzled by the continued legislative efforts to mandate something against the fundamental principle of home rule."
"If EMS dollars went away tomorrow, St. Petersburg would still be protected by 12 engine companies and four truck companies."
As one who actually works here, I can attest to the fact that fatdaddy aint spening no EMS $$$ on the fire side. "Four truck companies" let me do the math for you..........................................got to get the calculator out..................................................... that's eight people on ladder trucks protecting 250,000 people.
Nope! We're not improperly spending EMS money on fire but that doesn't mean that we're properly spending fire money on fire or EMS money on our paramedics either.
Working here, one has to learn the meaning of what is is.
Received via Email 03.7.10 Other than the occassional DUI, can anyone ever remember Bud-tallion 1 in the press as much as Jimmy? If he spent more time taking care of everyone OUTSIDE the paper palace with something other than a handshake, he wouldn't have to be in the CYA mode 24/7. Quickly becoming just another Clearwater.
Received via Email 03.8.10 It's that extra special feeling that you get when you realize it's the city of St. Pete calling you with a job offer: http://www.wimp.com/unfortunateodds/
Received via Email 03.10.10 A hearty hoo rah to local 747 member and C-shift Vice President Jon Pearl. See big Jon on page 27 bottom photo in the Jan-Feb. 2010 issue of the IAFF's International Fire Fighter. Jon was one of Local 747's representatives at the IAFF's Advanced Leadership Training Summit this past January. Over 1,000 IAFF members from throughout the U.S. and Canada attended. It is nice to see that the people we are sending to these classes are in fact attending them.
Received via Email 03.10.10 While we are at it, lets not miss this chance to Praise local 747 member Ron Neuberger from Lealman Fire for making his run for a council seat in Kenneth City. While he was not sucessful, (lost by 18 votes) he took his convictions to the next step and deceided that he could make a difference. Thank you Ron for showing the community that Firefighters are a force to be considered.
Received via Email 03.10.10 Best wishes out to a 4A LTs philandering wife at court tomorrow. I am sure you will lose big. Karma sucks.
Received via Email 03.10.10 Im sorry my mistake it was changed to the 16th at 0900. the hearing. Was just told to me.
Received via Email 03.11.10 Rumor has it , there is a rat at # 9.
Received via Email 03.11.10 There are lots of rats espeacially at MSF # 13a and 4 You cannot trust anyone. The FD is not a brotherhood anymore. its about backstabbers and people who lie or will do anything to get ahead. There is no brotherhood unless it helps you by screwing someone else.
Received via Email 03.11.10 There is a brotherhood in this fire dept.; if you can't see it then you're part of the problem. it's an easy fix. Start with yourself and your crew. Build the family atmosphere in the firehouse that has made the American fire service the best in the world. Support your local union and stand-up to anything that doesn't seem right. I'm sure we can add more to this so let's make it happen.
Received via Email 03.11.10 How bout come in and bust up a station and move three people. Two of whom have almost thirty years on the job, just to screw with morale. HQ cares nothing about a family atmosphere in the firehouse. In fact, they discourage it everyday. To the three getting screwed - stand up and fight and don't take the harassment.
Received via Email 03.11.10 When you talk about brotherhood and you talk about busting stations up, what you're really saying is Large can't get a handle on those groups where the brotherhood is strong. He's never been one to show up at a union meeting or plant signs in the ground or cook ribs or fight for your rights or stand an MDA watch. Let's look at the players and you all decide who's in your corner.
Large- nothing for any of us ever. Always worked to promote himself and never the firefighters.
Wimberly- nothing for any of us ever. Always worked to promote himself and never the firefighters.
Knight- nothing for any of us ever. Always worked to promote himself and never the firefighters. Only showed at union meetings for the beer.
Bruni- nothing for any of us ever. Always worked to promote himself and never the firefighters. Nice enough guy but that don't put food on the table.
Basset- nothing for any of us ever. Always worked to promote himself and never the firefighters. Again, nice enough guy but that don't put food on the table.
DC's- copy and paste from above.
The chief's gonna surround himself with people he can trust. He's not doing anything any different than the rest of us except for the fact that they don't do it our of the mutual respect that comes with brotherhood but through fear of reprisal. The chief is fearful too, though. He's fearful of us when we're together.
Received via Email 03.11.10 Please name the rats. Rats smell, but can't always be spotted easily. Thanks- the brotherhood needs to know who they are.
Received via Email 03.11.10 How about they may need a mental health month because of the move
Received via Email 03.11.10 Can anyone say "HOSTILE WORK ENVIRONMENT"?
Received via Email 03.11.10 When people get moved and transferred just because the chief has a hard on for someone, that really is a hostile work environment.
Received via Email 03.11.10 Well, from what I'm reading here none of you are believing the bullshit that the DC's made the moves. What a shocker. Wimberly better look out. He could be without a job if he doesn't start cracking more heads than Mr. Pumpkinhead.
Received via Email 03.11.10 Before the DCs announced the moves, appears the MFS already knew about it. Guess Large tells firefighters his evil plans before he lets the D.C.s know what is going on. What a great Leader. You guys at #9 that are getting moved, remember the troops are with you. We all know the BS that takes place everyday in this screwed up organization. The only thing that is professional is the firefighters and medics in the street. PERIOD.
Received via Email 03.11.10 I'm hearing that 1 of the big reasons the guys are #9 are moving is because most of them wouldn't submit to the bullshit physicals. folks you've got to wake up. The physicals are about information tracking and nothing else. How many of you believe Large when he tells you that it's a benefit and that he wants to make sure you're healthy? If that's the case it's the only thing the city ever gave us. It's all a lie. Whatever Large wants we need to run the other way the guy's a scammer and a mutt. The fire chiefs around Pinellas County are starting to realize that we ARE ANOTHER CLEARWATER.
Received via Email 03.12.10 Because sometimes we just forget, these words are on the home page of this web site.
If it is any consolation the PBA is no better [than the FOP]. They have not seemed to wake up to the fact that police unions here are powerless because the City does not negotiate. They know the unions are powerless and they exploit that. The city could care less about the unions. That being said the unions should spend every waking moment being a thorn in the side of the city. Don't play nice with them, cause they will just FU in the long run. Now before you union reps start crying about how the rest of us need to step up, may I point out the fire union. You don't get more participation and cohesiveness than the local fire union, but even with that they get F-ed by the city every time they bend over. What they do a good job at is mobilizing votes. Just ask Ed Montanari.
-From a recent discussion at LEOAffairs.com
TEAM: Point taken.
Received via Email 03.12.10 These moves at #9 aren't just going to affect those 3 people. They have to go somewhere and that means people at those stations have to go to make room. Plus the idiotic truck moves, the upcoming ALS engine upgrades. It just keeps coming. The new videos should use the old soap opera name of "As the World Turns". I'm sure some witty person can chage that to properly fit SPFR
Received via Email 03.14.10 Axelrod also indicated the White House was backing down on an attempt to get senators to rid the legislation of a number of lawmakers' special deals.
LIE, CHEAT, STEAL = OBAMACARE
Received via Email 03.14.10 Hmmmm. Change
Received via Email 03.14.10 Obama Drops Objections to Sweetheart Deals as House Moves to Craft Health Care Fixes - LIE, LIE, LIE.
THE ONLY THING THAT OBAMA CAN DO WELL.
Received via Email 03.16.10 But Pelosi and Rep. Louise Slaughter, D-N.Y., chairwoman of the House Rules Committee, are cooking up a plan to pass the original health bill from the Senate side without forcing rank-and-file Democrats to technically go on record in support of it.
Think about it is this the "CHANGE" that you really wanted? If they can do this with health care what is next? "Change" is one freedom taken away at a time.
Received via Email 03.17.10 What happened at the night drill last night?
Received via Email 03.17.10 Important Factoid: Fire Admin has adopted a new tactic hoping you will incriminate yourself. First the stage a station or fire scene and get you in a talkative mood, maybe even fein concern about your family. Then they pull a "Hey what do you think about what happened over at the (fill in the blanks) the other day? Since you have now been lulled into the talk mode, you mention something that they never knew, cause they never know, but now they do. Guess what? You just put a nail in yours, your crews, or your officers coffin. The invisible man and the punisher do not care and they have now brought everyone into the game. It could even be something that happened long ago. They are MUTTs and FINOs, but they truly play for the Mayors team and none of the above give a sh** about us. Watch your asses boys and girls.
Received via Email 03.18.10 Rumor has it that two or three went to the hospital. Supposedly, one fell and the safety line did not hold him - he and another hit the concrete like a rock. The other went to hospital because of some problem where they could not get him down. He had some type of difficulty breathing and he also went to hospital. Guess crews are not the only ones who get critical failures. Looks like the training division had one this time. OUCH !!
Received via Email 03.18.10 Census 2010 Plagued By Technical Difficulties", brought to you by OBAMACARE.
Received via Email 03.18.10 How many people who are actually on the clock working for the city while these abortion night drills are injuring out people?
Received via Email 03.18.10 "Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter"
This message brought to you by F.A.C.T.S. Firefighters Against Crappy Training Scenarios.
Received via Email 03.18.10 The training division "you losers screwed up a little on this drill, now feel our wrath"
"but is ok if we screw up and put you in the hospital."
What a sad department we have become.
Received via Email 03.19.10 Where is they accountability for the training division? If a driver scratches an engine both he and the officer are held accountable? Why aren't the instructors and the chief held accountable for the mishaps at the drillground?
Received via Email 03.19.10 I was off by 10 lbs on one of my hose lines at the last BCE and you'd a thunk I destroyed the world. Yeah like those guages are calibrated daily. But I know see how dropping someone from the 3rd floor of the training tower isnt as serious as what I did.
Received via Email 03.19.10 Watch the "O'Well" style attitudes displayed by the Invisible man and Mayor Froster over the possibility of losing more firefighters and extending response times. The Invisible man really sat up and showed his concerns on this one. If he was in our JATC program he would have flunked the portion where he got the important run time stat wrong, of course he has flunked out in more areas then this. I love the shoulder shrugs and head tilts. I hope Lauricilla and Vail arent totally settled in yet. I wonder what the other 3 were thinking when they turned down the twice in a life time opportunity to come back to work for the great SPFR? Now the invisible man has had to go into hiding for the weekend to be stroked into his normal feel good mode.
Received via Email 03.19.10 "Half a second (lie) no wait, half a minute. (now pounding forehead) Sheesh I'm so stupid, stupid, stupid." It don't matter unless you're the 15 guy on the 15th truck, huh Jimmy?
Received via Email 03.19.10 Hey Large. When you were a kid did you ever think you would become such a dick when you grew up? Sure you did. Most people don't become dick's by mistake. You couldn't have planned it any better. You're an A1#1 dick. Not to worry tho. You can blame it all on any one of your subordinates and fool us all. Right!
Received via Email 03.20.10 Think about it. Training div is still run by Lanning. Him and ptec 100 work together for the college and plan their drills. If it was really run by Bruni, people wouldn't be getting hurt and people wouldn't be harassed as much. Looks like lanning and spc is the new training division.
Received via Email 03.20.10 The channel 13 interview is real world. When Jimmy comes out to the station he's like Charles In Charge. He'll answer what he want to when he wants to. Put him in front of a camera and walah! (sp) the real Jimmy comes through every time. Notice how his story never differs from whatever mayor is in office? That's no mistake my friends. That pure design. He's got no balls. Remember when they turned down the SAFER grant money and stick it in their eye every time. It's all their way or no way. The guy at the top wasn't the last guy hired so it's not sweat off of his balls. PS Steve Knight you're a dick. Whether you're sitting on the shitter or driving in your company car or going shopping with the wife, 24/7 you're a dick. Keep giving him rope, Jimmy. There's room enough in that noose for both of you.
Received via Email 03.21.10 To all of your haters, take you fact-less rants to the RNC's website.( or Fox,it's just as wrong!) Bullshit prevails there!
Received via Email 03.21.10 It works both ways. The other day st pete had a fire and another city arrived first and literally put the fire out. St pete would have been scrambling and probably lost the structure if the other city didn't put it out. st pete does go into other's city. But by golly, they come into st pete also. and almost daily at that.
Received via Email 03.23.10 Two more cheesedicks:
Received via Email 03.24.10 L.A. Firefighter Almost Drowns During Training
Firefighters said their colleague was under the churning, cold water for about 30 secs.
It only takes a second to be screwed up for life or dead. Remember, if you get really messed up at our drill grounds the city of St. Pete Workers Comp will take good care of you while you're mending on light duty or using your own vacation time at home in bed. FTM
Received via Email 03.24.10 Don't you mean the DNC and CNN?
Received via Email 03.25.10 dont worry Zamp would have written that person up to make himself look better.
Singer Johnny Maestro dies in Fla., battled cancer
By KILEY ARMSTRONG, Associated Press Writer Kiley Armstrong, Associated Press Writer – 1 hr 40 mins ago
NEW YORK – Singer Johnny Maestro, who performed the 1958 doo-wop hit "16 Candles" with The Crests and enjoyed a decades-long career with The Brooklyn Bridge, has died of cancer. He was 70.
Les Cauchi, a friend and original Brooklyn Bridge member, said Maestro — born John Mastrangelo — died late Wednesday in Florida. His last residence was in Cape Coral, Fla.
After beginning his career in the 1950s with The Crests — one of the first interracial singing groups — Maestro joined a local New York group, The Del-Satins. It merged with a Long Island band, The Rhythm Method, to form Johnny Maestro and The Brooklyn Bridge in 1968.
Hits by the rock 'n' roll and doo-wop group included "The Worst That Could Happen," which Cauchi said earned "gold record" status with a million sales.
Cauchi said the group performed that song on "The Ed Sullivan Show." Other hits included "Blessed is the Rain," "Welcome Me Love" and "You'll Never Walk Alone."
Cauchi recalled that another well-known song, "Your Husband, My Wife," drew controversy when it was released in 1969 because it dealt with infidelity — a touchy topic during that era.
"Johnny was a class act. He was truly a gentleman," singer Dion DiMucci said on Facebook. "He sang `You'll Never Walk Alone' like an angel. ... We thank you for the beautiful trip you took us on. Love and peace."
"Dion reached out to John over the last couple of months, when Johnny was sick, to encourage him and give him some spiritual guidance," Cauchi said.
The band got its name after a manager declared it would be "harder to sell than the Brooklyn Bridge," Maestro once said. He performed at arenas, amphitheaters and casinos throughout the U.S. and Europe.
"He's considered one of the premier vocalists in rock 'n' roll — and one of the nicest, most sincere perfectionists in music," said Cauchi.
"Maybe now the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame will recognize him," said veteran radio host, author and music historian Bruce "Cousin Brucie" Morrow.
"Of all the talent, Johnny was the smoothest," said Morrow, who worked with Maestro many times. "He probably sounded more like his recordings live than any other performer. He always held true to the music and treated it with great respect."
Maestro's last performance was Jan. 17, when The Brooklyn Bridge was among groups appearing at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Connecticut. It was billed as "The Ultimate Doo-Wop Party."
Received via Email 03.26.10 how is that Tampa can run 5 on an engine and 3 on a rescue. Oh yea and fully staff their ladders
Received via Email 03.27.10 Damn, this is one of the easiest questions asked on this site yet. Tampa leadership had no problem with applying for, accepting, and then using SAFER Grant funding.
Received via Email 03.27.10 I thought they did that always not just now
Received via Email 03.27.10 Well, Chief "Please like me" has made yet another Lt. promotion. I'm not arguing that Dave Kadau was deserving or not, what I am going to say about it is this. The reason there was a promotion was due to the fact that a 30+ year veteran of SPFR had to retire for health and financial reasons and there is no memo anywhere that speaks to that. As you can see SPFR has no respect or care for those that have more years of experiance, guts, or fortitude then what is currently at the top of the heap. Anyone with any of those qualities is a threat and they need to looking over their shoulders daily. Yes, our days are numbered and the current admin is playing the part of the Grimm Reaper.
Received via Email 03.27.10 One of HQ's strategic moves is to move UNION officials who are at the same station. Blatant harassment. For example, the three moves from one station - involve current active members who actually go to union meetings from time to time and two of the three are union officials. One is the A -VP and the other the A trustee. They sure like to target and try to destroy. Having a great strong firefighting crew means nothing to HQ. What matters is that they want to crush any brotherhood. Remember all the station breakups back on the B shift when the current ops chief was a DC. If you didn't stand up when he walked in - You were getting moved. Take it from a retired B shifter. You guys had better fight for your rights.GRIEVE GRIEVE GRIEVE. Like this website says, take it back one grievance at a time. If HQ can do this kind of moving at will for no legitimate reason, then your rights mean nothing. As a matter of principal, the union should fight these h
arassing moves and work hard to stop this abuse. Hopefully the department will get back to caring about people on the street rather than abuse of power - from the ivory tower.
TEAM: We lost a couple of days postings on this page, guys. Sorry. (4-4-10)
Received via Email 04.07.10 HAPPY BELATED EASTER TO ALL. THE DAY OUR SAVIOUR ROSE FROM THE DEAD.
Received via Email 04.07.10 Obama Economic Adviser Says U.S. Should Consider 'Value-Added Tax'. Yea, what happened to NO taxes for the middle class? Again another lie from obama!
Received via Email 04.08.10 Obama could spin a lie a day, and it would take 3 terms to come even close to Bush Jr! Mission accomplished, WMD's ,Saddam planned 9-11, I didnt snort coke! I'm in charge, not cheny, F all the politicians.
Received via Email 04.08.10 We were having an interesting discussion the other day about that monstrosity at Station 6 and what its true meaning was. It caused me to take a moment and go read the explanation plaque that is posted by the thing and found it interesting. In brief in represents the Continuous building of truth, knowledge, integrity, and trust that builds throughout the history of the fire service. That is why the blocks get larger as the tradition gets older and wiser. Damn, it actually makes sense. Now here is what makes me wonder. Hmmm, I wonder why they haven't added another block under the Large/ Wimberly regime? It really isn't hard to figure, they should actually be removing a couple. Lets not forget they are Mutt faces and nothing but FINO's.
Received via Email 04.09.10 Barack Obama Sr. (Dad)
*Communist who saw nothing wrong with government 'taxing 100%' so long as the people got benefits...
- Obama Sr. on socialism
- Overview of the paper
*Harvard educated economist
*Nairobi bureaucrat who advised government to 'redistribute' income through higher taxes
*Demonized corporations
*Abandoned Barack Obama Jr. when he was 2 years old to continue at Harvard (teaching son that ideology is more important than family)
Stanley Ann Dunham (Mom)
*Communist sympathizer
*Practiced 'critical theory' (aka Marxism)
*Influenced by Nietzsche and Freud
*Left Hawaii for Indonesia, Pakistan
*Attended a leftist church nicknamed the 'little red church' because of its Communist sympathies
*Left Barack Obama Jr.
Mentor
*Barack's grandparents introduced Barack Obama Jr. to poet and communist Frank Marshall Davis
*Davis becomes a mentor as young Barack struggled with abandonment by parents
College & Church
*Admittedly sought out 'Marxist' professors
*Admittedly attended 'socialist conferences'
*Began attending a Marxist church - led by pastor Jeremiah Wright (attended for 20 years)
Career
*Tragedy of the Warren Court: No redistributive change
*Voted for TARP
*$787 billion stimulus redistribution bill
*Healthcare bill admittedly about 'redistributing the wealth'
*Single Payer Healthcare proponent
*President Obama now also President of GM & Chrysler
*President Obama seizes control of insurance giant AIG
*President Obama is leading America to single payer healthcare
*President Obama seized control of Student Loan industry in order to 'cut out middle man'
*President Obama seizes control in massive land grabs
*Repeatedly vilifies 'the rich'
*Obama believes race problems can be solved through redistribution of wealth... he said "race is still an enormous factor in our society. But economics can overcome a lot of racial division."
*Trying to regulate the Internet via FCC
*Forces mortgage co's to cover people who aren't paying mortgage
*Extends unemployment benefits to 99 weeks
*Told Joe the plumber 'it's better when you spread things around'
Family, Friends, Advisors & Administration
*Wife Michelle Obama said “The truth is, in order to get things like universal health care and a revamped education system, then someone is going to have to give up a piece of their pie so that someone else can have more.”
*Jim Wallis, Obama's spiritual advisor & forced redistribution of wealth advocate
*Van Jones, disgraced Green Jobs Czar & Communist
*Ron Bloom, Manufacturing Czar & anti-free market
*John Holdren, pro-redistribution of wealth
*Andy Stern, SEIU President & redistribution of wealth fan
*Anita Dunn, fan of Chairman Mao
*Mark Lloyd, FCC 'Diversity Czar'
*Carol Browner, socialist
*Robert Creamer, socialist
All in all, Bush is looking pretty good right about now.
Received via Email 04.09.10 Flint to Reopen Stations, Rehire FFs
Story by wnem.com
Posted: Thu, 04/08/2010 - 10:46
Updated: Thu, 04/08/2010 - 10:58
FLINT, Mich. --
In a turnaround of Flint's fortunes, Rep. Dale E. Kildee, D-Mich., announced Wednesday that he has successfully helped the city of Flint secure a grant from the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response Program.
The $6.7 million grant is expected to allow the city to rehire up to 39 firefighters and reopen two fire stations.
Flint Mayor Dayne Walling said Wednesday evening the city will begin rehiring 23 laid off firefighters within the next few days.
Earlier this year, Kildee wrote to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, which administers the grant, requesting that the grant be awarded to Flint.
At the congressman's urging, Dr. Edward Montgomery, the White House auto communities director, also urged FEMA to award the grant to the city.
The funding for the grant was made available through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
"I am extremely pleased that I was able to help secure this extremely important funding for the city of Flint," said Kildee. "This grant is expected to allow the city to rehire 39 firefighters, putting people back to work while helping keep us safe."
The SAFER grant can be used for up to 100 percent of a firefighter's salary for up to two years.
"This grant is extremely good news for Flint, and I am proud that I could help bring these funds to our community," said Kildee.
Sixty-nine public safety officials were aid off two weeks ago in an effort to curb the city's projected $8 million deficit at the end of the fiscal year
St. Petersburg has a sorry fire chief and a sorry mayor.
Delta adds $558 million to pensions
Atlanta Business Chronicle
Delta Air Lines Inc. has picked up the pace on employee pension funding.
The Atlanta-based airline said Thursday it added $558 million on an accelerated basis to four pension funds covering most of its U.S.-based employees. With the accelerated contributions, Delta will finish its required contributions to the plans for 2010 nearly seven months ahead of schedule.
Delta's pension funding is normally distributed throughout the year, with the majority of contributions added near the end of the year.
"Putting this money into our pension plans earlier means it will start working for employees sooner, by earning returns that add to the plan assets," said Mike Campbell, Delta executive vice president of human resources, in a news release. "Delta is committed to funding these plans, which provide an important part of the retirement benefit for many of our employees."
By the end of April, Delta will have contributed $665 million to its traditional pension plans in the first four months of this year, in addition to $100 million that has been contributed to employees' defined contribution 401(k) plans. Delta is on track to contribute nearly $1 billion to employees' retirement security in 2010.
Pasco County's legal bill grows in lawsuit filed by firefighters
A lawsuit by two firefighters plus an effort to unionize county workers has left Pasco County with a bigger legal bill than officials planned.
County officials are asking Pasco commissioners to pay an extra $100,000 to Tampa-based legal firm Ford & Harrison to defend the county in a lawsuit filed last December by firefighters Anthony Booth and Jerry Brown.
The complaint, filed against Pasco and the International Association of Firefighters Local 4420 union, alleges 24 counts of unlawful discrimination and retaliation.
Booth is Hispanic, and Brown is married to a woman from a family of Jewish faith.
Both men say the county failed to conduct a proper investigation of Capt. Mark Bodden, whom they accuse of making inappropriate racial and ethnic comments directed at them in 2007.
In November 2007, Pasco officials found Bodden, the captain, had violated county policies.
Personnel director Barbara DeSimone said Friday that Bodden, who still works with the department, completed several remedial sessions.
"He needed some diversity training," she said.
The pair also alleges that after they filed their original complaint in 2008 with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the Florida Commission on Human Relations, they were subjected to harassment by their colleagues and passed over by their supervisors for overtime shifts.
The two name their union as a defendant, saying that it not only failed to assist them but also posted a memo about their complaints that led to harassment by other firefighters. The union has asked a federal judge to dismiss the case.
Booth and Brown, both of whom still work for the department, are seeking punitive damages and attorneys' fees.
TEAM: "Stupid should hurt!" We're guessing that that Local's about to start paying the price for ignorance.
2010 MDA Collection Dates
Friday April 30th, 2010 Tyrone Blvd & Park St. 4:00pm - 6:30pm
Saturday May 1st, 2010 Tyrone Corners 9:00am - Noon
4th Street and 38th Ave. No.
Pinellas Bayway and Sun Blvd.
Friday May 7th, 2010 Tyrone Blvd & Park St. 4:00pm - 6:30pm
Saturday May 8th, 2010 Tyrone Corners 9:00am - Noon
4th Street and 38th Ave. No.
Pinellas Bayway and Sun Blvd.
Friday May 14th, 2010 Tyrone Blvd & Park St. 4:00pm - 6:30pm
Saturday May 15th, 2010 Tyrone Corners 9:00am - 6:30pm
4th Street and 38th Ave. No.
Pinellas Bayway and Sun Blvd.
*(Friday afternoon dates) we will start at 4:00pm and finish up at 6:30pm.
(Saturday dates) start at 9:00am and finish up at 12:00 noon.
Sign up now for your chance to help change the lives of the less frotunate and to secure your favorite collection spot(s). Call or see Rick Pauley EVP, A-Shift VP Nolsheim, B-Shift VP Neuberger, C-Shift VP Pearl, So. Pas Rep. Matt Wilson or Lealman Rep. Mike Groves.
There will be plenty of ice-cold beverages and snacks available during and after the collection times.
Received via Email 04.12.10 It's a brave new world out there. All the talk in council chambers about running our own program with 3 onboard like they do in S. Fla. is all bullshit. Some of you bright boys might have noticed that we now have guys who are medics as well as actors now acting on ALS engines AND being the medic also. We've also got officers with medic patch's working as the medic on ALS engines. What part of YOU'VE BEEN DUPED don't you guys get? Which one of you heroes is going to be the first to run up to Mr. Pumpkinhead and thank him for running the program that THEY WANT, off of your back?
What's next.......officer/driver? This is the cheapest city to work for and now your enemy James D. Large at fire HQ has shown us all once again that you are not the most important element of this job...............getting the job done at any expense where you and I pay for it is the most important thing.
Received via Email 04.15.10 Ihave a question.. If I become an alcoholic cheat with other firefighters wives and beat my girlfriend. Will I get promoted?
Received via Email 04.16.10 I've got a question too. When are we going to get serious about OUR business and pay less attention to Jimmy Large's FD as it implodes around him? I'm not saying to ignore it, but c'mon. We still stand a chance of losing benefits permanently in Tallahasee THIS year and we're worried about who's screwing who's wife? If your wife is whoring around with others on the job, you and your wife have a problem, not the rest of us. Everyone should be attending union meetings and asking what it is that they can do to keep us all from being robbed. If you attended one of the two meetings that we had at the union hall last week, you found out that even if you've retired and left this place you can still lose pension benefits. We lost our best hope of getting a mayor into office because some of us thought that the union was run by others. Now we stand a chance of losing part of our pension benefits to the tune of thousands of dollars a year because we think that someone will always ride to the rescue and take care of our business for us better than us. Wrong! The next union meeting is April 22.
Received via Email 04.16.10 Not to sound too stupid here but how can the city take away benefits if we're already retired or dropped?
TEAM: Our pension is what's known as a 'local law plan' rather than the more typical FRS plan. Because it's written into local law or ordinance, it can change at any time. Both plans are under attack now and will be for some time. Politics is the only game in town. It's where your friends and your enemies reside. Don't want to play the game? Prepare to have the game play you!
Received via Email 04.16.10 "Don't want to play the game? Prepare to have the game play you!" Extremely well stated. Should be posted on the union bulletin board in every station. The activity you are seeing at the present time from the Legislature, the League of Cities, and the city of St. Petersburg is just the tip of the iceberg. With their recent success in Tallahassee they will become more agressive in their walk up the backs of fire fighters in the future. We are living in a time when the ball has swung all the way in their favor due to national circumstances and some local circumstances we could have prevented to some extent. It's true that we dropped the ball in the local election for mayor. That's on us. Lame excuses and finger pointing won't change a thing. We screwed up and now we pay for it. The state fire fighter Association is fighting with all it has to prevent further encroachment by the Legislature into your futures. The bills in Tallahassee are still there and the anti-union lobbyists are still putting on the pressure to take away your benefits even more. Public opinion and job security are putting pressure on the members of the legislature and they're responding with enthusiasm when it comes to finding a scapegoat. That would be us. We're an easy target and one the public sees as over compensated to begin with. It's true that some of the new bills in Tallahassee will fail. But not all of them. And we need to support the PFF in their battle to defend us on the state level. More importantly we need to realize that we can defeat the League of Cities and the city itself when we totally support candidates running for office at the local level. I made the statement here a long time ago that the future of pensions for fire fighters in the city of St. Petersburg was called a 401K. I got my ass handed to me as if it was my fault that this could happen. But there are factions working against you that will make that a true statement sooner than later. And they need to be stopped. Or live with it. It's true that the local law pensions can go away over night. And there's nothing you can do about it. In fact it's a little surprising that it hasn't already happened. Those who are in the middle at this point in time are the unfortunate ones. Because until the ball swings in the opposite direction there will be no letup on them. I don't remember any time when the members of Local 747 have had it as bad as it is right now. Getting hit on all sides and having little with which to fight back. The pension, the working conditions, the attitude of the chief, the politics, the public opinion, all of it on the shoulders of the working fire fighter. I admire every one of the members of the Local for their willingness to put forth even the smallest effort to keep going in the face of it. It's going to be a wait and see situation and there's probably more things to come that will be detrimental to the fire service and to fire fighter's in general. Until the ball swings to our side, or at least to the center, there probably isn't much joy in Mudville.
Dick Tully
TEAM: "I got my ass handed to me as if it was my fault that this could happen." SSDD here, Dick. The city's your friend, the chief's your friend and the union is always putting itself in the middle - mucking up the 'good relationship'.
Received via Email 04.16.10 Received via Email 04.16.10 It was told to me that SPFR's Invisible Fire Chief Jim Large was seen in the Capitol this past Wednesday. It seems odd that he was not however seen standing with his or any other groups of firefighters but was there working for himself. Can someone explain this?
Received via Email 04.17.10 Wow, Chief Large working for himself surprises you? What surprises me even more is Chief Bruni on TV last night talking about the High Rise fire, totally ignoring that fact that a fire fighter was injured. Sounds like a repeat of the injuries that were suffered during the night drills. 2 for 2, it is apparant that our administration just dont care about us. On the other hand, he did look good in his Department uniform at 11pm on a saturday night. I think he has become another KD.
Received via Email 04.18.10 True he didnt look drunk or hungover. Who was the person injured.
Received via Email 04.18.10 please tell ius it was not Bieber. It would have to be some out of shape fat person,
Received via Email 04.19.10 "What a glorious morning this is!" --Samuel Adams, to John Hancock at the Battle of Lexington, Massachusetts, 1775
So said the Union to the HQ staff as it places its boot squarely in its anti-union ass! KD's, every last one of them!
Received via Email 04.20.10 A warning to you guys at 13. Do not turn your back on DK. Do not trust him. Do not tell him anything personal about your life. He will try to use it against you. He and Zamp are good friends. That should telll you something right there. Be warned.
Received via Email 04.21.10 "What a glorious morning this is!" Also heard from Lt. Glass and Sam Warren as they were hauling ass from this shit hole.
Received via Email 04.21.10 After hearing the line of BS that is coming out of the Officers Meetings I am now more worried than before.They say they have turned off the remote spy cams in the stations and are openly admitting to having Shit house rat spies in the stations to report on our private conversations. I wonder what premium code they put that under?
Received via Email 04.21.10 And DK is great friends with SZ. You know the one who slept with another ffs wife while MZ kept it quiet and thought philandering was ok.
Received via Email 04.22.10 If you've been to the officers meeting, been injured at a night drill, been asked to drive, catch the hydrant, act and be the medic while you balance your checkbook, we'd like to know what you think. Email us at SPFDFunny@Yahoo.com with your ideas about the tanking of our department.
Received via Email 04.23.10 I just saw an old Dunkin Donuts commercial "time to make the donuts" where the old guy gets up every 4 hours to make the donuts. My question is how many of us still feel as energetic as the guy first thing in the morning when coming to work or do you feel like the poor guy at the end of the night? Right now I have no gumption what so ever to come into this shit hole. What can I do to get my desire back?
Received via Email 04.25.10 To answer the question for the person who asked how to get their desire back to come to this job, thats simple, go make the donuts for a week or even a month, that will simply remind you how good you have it, regardless of how bad you feel you do. Go walk a day in the donut makers shoes, you'll quicly see the life we have in our career is pretty great...considering.
Received via Email 04.26.10 To 4/23: Do everyone a favor and quit. You didn't sign a contract to work here for a set amount of time, so you are free to leave. This department will be better without you. Your obviously one of those who got this job way too easily and didn't work a REAL shit job before coming here. Also, as soon as you can, call your Mom and/or Dad and tell them they suck for doing such a crappy job raising you.
Received via Email 04.26.10 The new Hair policy was just shit out of the computer. I hope noone misreads the parameters of the mens facial hair guidelins and comes in looking like Adolf.
Received via Email 04.26.10 Maybe the ass munchers will cut theirs to look like Chief Wimberly. Imitation is the biggest form of hum-age..
Received via Email 04.27.10 Whats wrong with adolf?
Importand Dates & Times
Negotiations
Wednesday April 28th Bargaining session reopener on existing overtime issues @ 1000 hrs. to 1200hrs.
in room 900 - MSC Building
Consultation
Wednesday April 28th consultation with the city concerning injuries sustained by members at night drills @ 1530 hrs.
in room 800 - MSC Building
MDA
Friday April 30th from 4-6:30 pm
Saturday May 1st from 9-Noon
"There are more instances of the abridgment of the freedom of the people by gradual and silent encroachments of those in power than by violent and sudden usurpations." --James Madison
Received via Email 04.27.10 So when does large start drawing little circles during his next Amway meeting? Don't drink the Noni juice for too long boys. That shit will kill ya.
WE NEED YOUR HELP! Firefighter Death Benefits Bill
Date: Apr 28, 2010
We have three days left of the Legislative Session. Three days to pass the Firefighter Death Benefits bill in the name of fallen firefighter, John J. Curry! The Florida Senate passed SB 202 unanimously on the floor Monday morning. The House is holding the bill up. We need you to make three phone calls and send three e-mails and tell them you want the Firefighter Death Benefits bill heard now!
CALL NOW. JUST SAY YOUR NAME, WHICH DEPARTMENT YOU’RE WITH, AND THAT YOU ARE URGING THE HOUSE TO HEAR THE FIREFIGHTER DEATH BENEFITS BILL – HB 65.
Please spread the word . . . our voices must be heard!
Christine Aleknavich
Legislative Aide
Office of Rep. Darren Soto
5425 S. Semoran Blvd. Suite 1-B
Orlando, FL 32822-1751
(407) 249-4743
(407) 249-4745 fax
Received via Email 04.28.10 This Death Benefit bill SB202 is something we all need to make sure passes. The way our new and improved South Pittsburg Training Division is out to put as many off the job as possible and has adpoted its no holds barred training nightmares, we really need all of the help we can get. For those of you that dont know what this bill is all about, here it is in a nutshell. Firefighte John L. Curry was killed during a training exercise when a tree fell on him and killed him. The State of Florida currently DOES NOT recognize training to fit into the parameters to be called a Line of Duty Death. Brother Curry left behind a wife and young child. Without this bill, one of us could become the next death that the state wants to give the shaft to. If you think that you have enough insurance to cover your family after you pass, ask yourself this. At a minimal $50k a year. how many years will your loved ones last with your $50K policy? Maybe you have a $250K whoppie 5 years, $500K is only 10. A state recognized line of duty death gets your family more that most of you will ever know. Lets all get on the phones and get this message to these 4 elected leaders. We want our families taken care of and we want to be assured that a training accident is covered.
TEAM: Hooyah, Sis/Bro
Received via Email 04.28.10 PROVING THE NEED FOR FIREFIGHTER STAFFING:
A new study issued today here at CFSI in DC by NIST shows that the size of firefighting crews has a substantial effect on our ability to protect lives and property in residential fires.
DUH.
Well, now wait a minute. it's "DUH" to us-WE knew that the size of a crew has a substantial impact on the incident success-but IT IS NOT clearly understood and known to those who decide the staffing we operate with. And if this report is used properly and correctly-it CAN help those who don't get it-to GET IT, on the Firefighter staffing issue. NOTE: The key to the success of this document will be how WE use it to educate those who determine our responses, staffing and ultimately, our funding. That is the key. (See below for more)
The study found that four FF firefighting crews were able to complete 22 essential firefighting and rescue tasks in a typical residential structure 30% faster than two-person crews and 25 percent faster than three-person crews. Pure emotionless numbers-and THAT'S what is needed to get the emotionless city-hall dwellers to "get it". They want numbers? WE GOT NUMBERS. No emotion.
FACTUAL, MEASURABLE, PROVABLE NUMBERS.
The report is the first modern report to quantify the effects of FF crew sizes and arrival times on the fire service's job of rescue and firefighting operations for residential fires.
SIMPLY PUT:
The four-person crews were able to deliver water to a similar-sized fire 15 percent faster than the two-person crews and 6 percent faster than three-person crews, steps that help to reduce property damage and lower danger to the Firefighters.
"Our experiments directly address 2 primary objectives of firefighters: extinguishing the fire and rescuing occupants," said Lori Moore-Merrell of the IAFF, a principal investigator on the study and long time Secret List member.
The four-person crews were able to complete search and rescue 30 percent faster than two-person crews and 5 percent faster than three-person crews, Moore-Merrell explained. Five-person crews were faster than four-person crews in several key tasks. The benefits of five-person crews have also been documented by other researchers for fires in medium- and high-hazard structures, such as high-rise buildings, commercial properties, factories and warehouses.
NIST researchers and their fire service partners conducted more than 60 controlled fire experiments to determine the relative effects of crew size, the arrival time of the first fire crews, and the "stagger," or spacing, between the arrivals of successive waves of fire-fighting apparatus (vehicles and equipment). The stagger time simulates the typically later arrival of crews from more distant stations as compared to crews from more nearby stations.
Crews of two, three, four and five firefighters were timed as they performed 22 standard firefighting and rescue tasks to extinguish a live fire in the test facility. Those standard tasks included occupant search and rescue, time to put water on fire, and laddering and ventilation. Apparatus arrival time, the stagger between apparatus, and crew sizes were varied.
The fire modeling simulations demonstrated that two-person, late-arriving crews can face a fire that is twice the intensity of the fire faced by five-person, early arriving crews. Additionally, the modeling demonstrated that trapped occupants receive less exposure to toxic combustion products-such as carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide-if the firefighters arrive earlier and involve three or more persons per crew.
"The results of the field experiments apply only to fires in low-hazard residential structures as described in the NFPA Standard 1710, but it provides a strong starting point," said Moore-Merrell. Future research could extend the findings of the report to quantify the effects of crew size and apparatus arrival times in medium- and high-hazard structures, she said.
The next step for them is to develop a training package for Firefighters and public officials that would enable them to have both quantitative and qualitative understanding of the research, a project also funded by FEMA's Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program. THATS THE KEY.
The Report on Residential Fireground Field Experiments can be downloaded here.
Take Care-BE CAREFUL.
BillyG
The Secret List 4-28-10 /1720 Hours
Received via Email 04.29.10 To the team, Please remove the badge of honor that you awarded to DC Johnson and in turn strip him of all of the dignity he may have once have earned at the cost of our Union Brothers and Sisters. Johnson has again returned to the crack pipe for his daily hits and is now so far embedded into the anal cavity of this city and fire adminstration that its a wonder his neighbors dogfish even look at him. At the most recent Officers meeting it was totally appearant that he is now hopelessly lost and should be considered useless as a firefighter and the brotherhood. Also lets not stop with Johnson, include Crumity, Zamparelli, Domante, Adamides, Eanes, LeCroy, and Girk as well. On second thought maybe we could keep them around for a little while longer. They make such good you tube material.
TEAM: What page?
Received via Email 05.01.10 MAY 1, 305 AD, the most powerful man in the world, Emperor Diocletian, stepped down from ruling Rome, only two years after he had begun a systematic persecution to exterminate Christianity.
Diocletian forbade worship, burned books, arrested clergy and demanded pagan sacrifices.
From Europe to North Africa, thousands were persecuted and martyred.
Suddenly, Diocletian was struck with a painful intestinal disease and resigned.
Eight years later Emperor Constantine ended the persecution of Christians.
In 1984, President Reagan said:
"In the fourth century, a monk thought he heard God telling him to go to Rome...
He followed a crowd into the Coliseum and saw the gladiators.
He realized they were going to fight to the death.
He cried out, 'In the Name of Christ, stop!'...made his way through the crowd and climbed the wall into the arena...
As he was pleading with the gladiators...one of them plunged his sword into his body...his last words were, 'In the Name of Christ,
stop!'
Suddenly the gladiators stood looking at this tiny form...
In dead silence, everyone left."
Reagan continued:
"That was the last battle in the Coliseum. One tiny voice...'In the Name of Christ, stop!' We could be saying that today."
If you're the chief of St. Petersburg Fire and Rescue and your tummy hurts, someone's trying to tell you something.
Received via Email 05.01.10 Hey 4-29. Large could be the big man on campus too. When he was first promoted to chief he went over to Hillsborough and Tampa and talked about awards ceremonies and all. He hates our union and the fact that he just cant run rampant over us when he wants to so he doesn't feel that we're deserving. The feeling is mutual. Another Clearwater
Received via Email 05.01.10 The bottom line is this The Big Chiefs hate us for one reason... They dont have the protection that we have. They are exempt employees and they know they will get no help from their good old buddy system. They continually have to show their victories or face extermination.
Please don’t forget to send an email to Representative Darren Soto and his Legislative Aide, Christine Aleknavich, thanking them for their continuous efforts and hard work in getting the Firefighter Death Benefits bill passed into Legislation.
These 2 people really deserve a ton of credit. Christine was phenomenal and really took this issue to heart.
As fire fighters who work closely with out legislators who fight on our behalf - a final courtesy should be extended to those who turn our dreams into reality.
Received via Email 05.02.10 My conscience is clear and I never have a tummy ache. Which chief am I?
Received via Email 05.02.10 While out collecting for MDA this weekend the subject of manditory overtime came up. Two different people chimed in with the exact same story that they had heard that the reason why child care issues would no longer be considered a valid excuse to get out of manditory overtime was all because of Dave Fraser. Both of these people said that the story goes back to one person and that person was an acting c-shift DC by the name of Captain I, I, I, me, me, me. Why do people listen to stories get their start with this jack hole? If it's true that child care can't be used as a reason to bail out of this shit hole of a FD that can't run without calling you at 0755 then someone like Dave needs to stand up to these practices and make the city accountable for such acts. Stop listening to shit about the union and it's members and anything that has to do with bullshit that's imposed on us while the Taliban at HQ and the likes of those who wear medic patches and who will never touch a pt. again continue to receive patch pay while guys like Dave who have done 30 years on a truck get told to wear an EMT patch. They all want you to love them so bad that they'll lie for it. Just Another Clearwater
Received via Email 05.03.10 Which secretary at HQ do I have to sleep with to get promoted?
Received via Email 05.04.10come on we all know the answer to that one......hehe!!
Received via Email 05.04.10 I personnaly have taken a likin to that hot female EMS Captain in the videos. I'll bet there is a long line in front of that one tho.
Received via Email 05.04.10 All of them. But if you have a short d**k, you won't get past the first one.
Received via Email 05.12.10 Wow!!!! Did you all read that admission of lack of leadership from Chief Large? It about knocked me over. The truth will set you free Jimbo, but not in the case of incompetence. We already knew of your lack of quailty in every layer of leadership, you never had it before and you did not automaticaly get it when you pined on the 5th bugle. SPFR is full of self professed 100 years of inbreeding and we will never get away from that until major new blood is brought in to our family. Thank you for finally seeing yourself for what you and your entire team are. Inept, uncaring, unliked, and unwelcome.
Received via Email 05.12.10 William J. Stout, former Safety Harbor fire chief, dies at age 62.
Received via Email 05.14.10 Brainwashing is a technique used in the reformation or alteration of an individual's thought process and beliefs. The motive or purpose behind brainwashing a person is mostly evil or antisocial. The person who brainwashes someone generally resorts to harassing the victim, both physically and mentally.
Robert Jay Lifton, a psychiatrist from the United States, studied brainwashing techniques implemented in Chinese war camps. These techniques were used to brainwash American prisoners of war (POWs). According to him, the process of brainwashing involves various techniques, grouped under the following steps.
Breaking the Self-belief: This is the first step of brainwashing. It involves breaking down a person's morale and the present beliefs, by means of physical and mental torture. The techniques used in the process are enlisted below.
Attack on the Identity: In this technique, the identity of the person to be brainwashed is attacked. It creates a dent on the self-esteem of the person. The process may continue from a few days to several months, till the person becomes exhausted, disoriented and loses control over his mind.
Guilt: The victim is constantly humiliated, so that he feels guilty about simple mistakes and the beliefs he holds. Eventually, a sense of shame develops in the victim and he begins to lose confidence.
Self-betrayal: In this technique, the victim is coerced to give up or denounce his beliefs and also the social system he comes from. It creates a kind of an identity crisis in the mind of the victim.
Nervous Breakdown: The victim who is already completely exhausted and disoriented, may suffer from a nervous breakdown. He becomes prone to several psychological disorders.
Possibility of Salvation: In this stage, the person who brainwashes the victim, doesn't need to torture the victim or use coercive techniques. He uses the following methods to bring the victim under his control.
Leniency: After bearing the harassment for a long time, the victim is shattered, both physically and mentally. At this point of time, the person or agent carrying out the brainwashing shows some leniency towards him. It comes as a pleasant shock to the victim.
Confession: The leniency shown by the agent comes as a relief for the victim. He may express his gratitude for the kind treatment offered by the agent. At this point time, an option of confessing the past mistakes is offered to the victim.
Channelizing and Releasing the Guilt: The entire process creates a void in the mind of the victim. Now comes the time for the agent to fill this void. At this crucial juncture, he has every opportunity to manipulate or control the victim's mind. All the past sufferings of the victim are attributed to the 'wrong' belief system that he followed in the past. Now, the victim gets the 'freedom' to blame his past and not himself for the agony he underwent. It frees him from the blemishes of the past.
Rebuilding a New Belief System: In this stage, the agent treats the victim in a friendly manner. He persuades the victim to choose a completely new belief system. There is no need to force or compel the victim, since he is already on the path towards believing a new concept. The agent just gives him a mental 'push'. The victim starts thinking about the new principles and fundamentals consciously. The fact that he is treated well, attracts the victim towards the new thoughts and 'teachings'. After the victim is under the total control of the agent, a ritual is conducted to 'stamp' the new belief system on his mind. This, kind of binds the victim and forces him to remain loyal to the new world he has entered. It can be termed as a 'rebirth' and a new beginning in the life of the victim.
Brainwashing techniques are harmful for those who are at the receiving end. The process of brainwashing is mostly carried out in prisons, war camps, etc. These techniques have not been studied extensively till date, as they induce harmful effects on the target. Brainwashing is a destructive technique and can reduce a healthy, happy person to a mere puppet and in some cases, also prove fatal.
Received via Email 05.17.10 I've been brainwashed by the union for over 20 years and without all the shit I read above. HQ suckboys blew then and the blow worse now. Go Local 747! FTM
Received via Email 05.19.10 Today's facilitated small groups or teams are not like the old Bible studies many of us attended years ago. Back then, we discussed the Bible and its wonderful truths; now people dialogue until they reach an emotional form of unity based on "empathy" for diverse views and values. Dr. Robert Klench describes the process:
"Total Quality Management [TQM] is based upon the Hegelian dialectic, invented by Georg Wilhelm Freidrich Hegel, a transformational Marxist social psychologist. Briefly, the Hegelian dialectic process works like this: a diverse group of people (in the church, this is a mixture of believers (thesis) and unbelievers (antithesis), gather in a facilitated meeting (with a trained facilitator/teacher/group leader/change agent), using group dynamics (peer pressure), to discuss a social issue (or dialogue the Word of God), and reach a pre-determined outcome (consensus, compromise, or synthesis).
"When the Word of God is dialogued (as opposed to being taught didactically) between believers and unbelievers... and consensus is reached – agreement that all are comfortable with – then the message of God's Word has been watered down... and the participants have been conditioned to accept (and even celebrate) their compromise (synthesis). The new synthesis becomes the starting point (thesis) for the next meeting, and the process of continual change (innovation) continues.
"The fear of alienation from the group is the pressure that prevents an individual from standing firm for the truth of the Word of God, and such a one usually remains silent (self-editing). The fear of man (rejection) overrides the fear of God. The end result is a 'paradigm shift' in how one processes factual information."
Received via Email 05.22.10 DHS has awarded more than $12 million in SAFER grants, and more are expected to be announced before the end of the month. SAFER applications are being prioritized so that fire departments that have had layoffs are getting the highest priority and receiving their funding first. The news couldn't come any sooner for Akron, OH Local 330 members. The 38 fire fighters laid off in October will be back on the job, thanks to this funding.
Proof positive that this city, mayor and fire chief don't give a shit about it's firefighters. The mayor's looking to drop 11 more positions because they don't care. They want drug testing, physicals and more manditory overtime. They don't give a shit about a single 1 of us. Jimmy, I hope you choke on your MFS morning coffee. You are dead to me.
Received via Email 05.24.10 Holy Sh-- 5/19, if I wanted to be preached to I'd go to church! "old Bible studies many of us attended years ago.". If you consider sunday school a study group? wt-
Received via Email 05.24.10 For those young firefighters that didn't know, here is an article on one of our own from years ago.
Cancer returns, so water skiing legend throws party.
Received via Email 05.24.10 Florida Firefighter wrestles gun from accident victim
Received via Email 05.25.10 Hey, Jimmy isn't a little embarrassing to have to call Lealman, South Pasadena, and Treasure Island fire departments to assist St. Petersburg firefighters with a little fire. It used to be that we were the ones that were called to assist them! It's too bad that your department has gone down the tubes isn't it?
You can bet your ass that the mayor's suck boy wouldn't have said shit if the cuts had passed. Chief Large, what do you think of the loss of an engine company and 11 men? "Whether I put six men on a truck or two men on a truck, when there's a fire I make sure I have a minimum of 15 people show up," Large said. "If they get there on 15 trucks or one truck, I don't know what the risk is."
Just Another Clearwater
Received via Email 05.25.10 I hear the flush of the toilet
Received via Email 05.25.10 Captain Bruni looks so different without his readin specs. I wonder why he goes out of his way not to mention that he is Capt Joe Bruni of the SPFR? Is it that embarrassing Joe? For your next educational video why don't you show how HQ does a lomBOTomy or a spinectomy? At least he would have something factual to report on.
Received via Email 05.25.10 that mustasche looked so sexy on him. yummy
Everyone have a great Memorial Day and please take a moment to remember our Patriots.
Received via Email 05.29.10 OK, so now HQ's grand plan to take kill a little more positive attitude on duty. Let's take away the shorts,and tee shirts, put them in those homo pants with extra pockets. A nice double knit polo and we're all ready for the the rainbow brigade! Good leadership shows that keeping the line employees happy, make for a better work situation. Yeah some will say its only shorts, but come on, we're in Florida! 97' outside in your baggy ass pants. What's next, no more jumpsuits!? FTM FTM now!
Received via Email 05.30.10 You look like a bunch of trolls in those shorts anyhow
Received via Email 05.30.10 Please do not take away my jumpsuit!! After I have run my 4 call after midnight belts and buttons are a BITCH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1
Received via Email 05.30.10 5/31 #1, you must be the troll servicing the chief while he puts his beer on your flat as- head..FTM again!
Received via Email 06.01.10 No I've just seen you fat over weight trolls wearing shorts you should be ashamed of yourselfs you pigs
Received via Email 06.04.10 my DC said that if I wanted to get promoted that I shoud invest in knee pads. What should I do
TEAM: "Invest" is a great choice in words. Get a ticket and get in line. SPFR produces heroes like hookers produce happy customers. It's all great at first until your crotch starts to itch and burn and you realize that it wasn't worth the price of admission.
Received via Email 06.04.10
Editor:
My thanks to the Pinellas County Fire Chiefs Association and the International Association of Fire Fighters for putting on the May 22 fire/ground operations orientation.
This was a six hour program in which we suited up in fire fighter protective clothing, donned a self-contained breathing apparatus, and went inside a real fire to experience first-hand, the environment in which fire fighters work.
As a team, we climbed a stairwell, pulling fire hose. As a team, in two different scenarios, we crawled through smoke-filled rooms, emphasizing the importance of staying below the rising smoke, as well as tracing our way into a fire, and finding our way out. As a team, in a post automobile accident scenario, we used a spreader to push apart the metal structure of a car, and a cutter to open wide the door jam of the car, in a mock extraction of a human being.
Fire fighter medics demonstrated their concerns for safety. The reason I have repeated “as a team” several times is because a point emphasized throughout this effort was the need for ample staffing of fire fighters.
The appropriate number of fire fighters provides the staff necessary to save lives during the “golden hour” after physical trauma. It also results in less loss of property with quicker response to fires.
We used a thermal imaging camera to locate a person in a smoke-filled room. This thermal technology allows one to see a fire behind a wall which allows for quicker action and less property destruction in looking for fire sources. I was impressed with this technology, and naively asked if every fire fighter carried one of these. A fire fighter quickly called to my attention that technology doesn’t do any good, if you don’t have ample employees to use it. Point taken.
A hint for those who will participate in this orientation in the future. We were tasked to find a person in a smoke-filled room, using the thermal imaging camera. Although I couldn’t see clearly, we found our person, we believe, sitting on a commode. It seems that fire fighters have a sense of humor.
From this first-hand experience I gained perspective on the need for deploying the appropriate number of fire fighters, and emergency medical staff, to the scene of a fire or medical emergency. As an elected representative of the citizens of Seminole, please be assured that we support our fire fighters in their efforts to keep both us, and them, safe.
Patricia Plantamura
Seminole City Councilor
Received via Email 06.06.10 To bad the orientation will fall on deaf ears
Received via Email 06.06.10 To Patricia Plantamura:
Are you of the same city that was the FIRST in the Tampabay area to layoff firefighters? Seems your words don't match your actions. Too bad. Anyone can say anything, but what really matters is what you do. You talk the talk BUT you don't walk the walk.
Received via Email 06.06.10 NO ST Pete was the first in the late 70's, oh yea the first time they closed station 2 ,
Received via Email 06.07.10 I stand corrected. You are right, St. Pete did lay off 6 firefighters in the mid 1970's, but they were all asked to come back within 6 months (they were smart none of them did).
I was referring to the more current situation with the Gov. saying no layoffs for firefighters and the local politicians saying no layoffs for public safety when they were touting the amendment to reduce home taxes.
Received via Email 06.10.10 Lets see, the fire department needs to cut 1 million from its budget for next year. They wont hire to cover for the 9 people that have retired, overtime is being processed by the bushel baskets with all of the injured folks, rumors of engine and squad 1 being taked out of service, etc. etc. But somehow...Admin is entertaining the idea of spending a gizzilion dollars for new air packs. WTF, where did this money get found? Is SPFR going to apply for one of those dreaded grants? Dont they know that there are rules that must be followed? I know that other departments across this country apply for them regularly be my god what are they doing? Do they even stop to think about how much safer their citizens will be by receiving one of these grant things? I just cant fathom what is happening around here.
Received via Email 06.10.10 Largo officials, firefighters get mediator's plan to end contract dispute
Received via Email 06.11.10 Hey dipshit 6/10 #1 Our packs are old and outdated. If they want to buy news ones let them and stop your bitching. Money has been stored for replacement of packs when it is time so if you do not know what the hell you are talking about, keep the pie whole closed.
Received via Email 06.12.10 To the king of the dipshit koolaide drinkers. Why is it you dont ask the question, how did it sneak up on all those 40 hours assh*%s in HQ that our packs got out of date? Why werent they replaced a couple of years ago? Was it because the continuous budget cuts have continuously caused delays? Is it not more important when found, before someone might get injured while using out of date equipment? Get back on you knees and coax another drink from the slushy pipe. It should be easy for you spineless idiots.
Received via Email 06.12.10 Money was also stored for our pension. BUT THEY SPENT IT. Go figure !!
Received via Email 06.13.10 Dont worry. Mayor 100 is on the streets to call for backup and another alarm. We will alll be ok. With him out there we can take an engine out of service.
Received via Email 06.15.10 He's talking to you JIMMY LARGE!
Received via Email 06.15.10 Florida slams brakes on 'double dipping' July 1
Received via Email 06.15.10 6-15 #1 What is really sad is the fact that this city and this fire dept. and this chief have committed all of those sins. If Jimmy Large were the only one in the audience he'd never be able to say that Harold was NOT talking directly to him. Just another Clearwater
Received via Email 06.15.10 Double dipping Jim Large enjoying his fat cash cow while the rest of the firefighters fight for little or nothing in pay increases. Only in St Greedysburg.
Received via Email 06.20.10 Here is a FIRE BOAT for you Station 11 guys to drool over.
Received via Email 06.20.10 New memo just out. Starting Monday morning Chief Wimberking demands that you call out for sick leave prior to 07:00. I say, look at your phone list and get the number to DC 5's direct line to his bunk room. I am certain that he wont mind a few calls at 4 am or so. I mean he has no problem with the rest of the crew at that station waking up at all hours by the bells and then mandating OT to the same people. I say game is on.
TEAM: Go to http://iaff747.org/ Log in and go to the Downloads page. At the top of the page is a document from our labor attorneys entitled, Proposed Unilateral Chage Re Leave Time
Received via Email 06.20.10 The price of drug testing:
Received via Email 06.21.10 HQ staff can do it all by themselves. You all serve at the pleasure. Now get back to work and stop having thoughts of your own because it doesn't sit will with Jimmy!
Received via Email 06.21.10 A lot of this shit that we're going through with shoving bullshit changes down our throats could have all been nipped in the bud had just one great thinker in management been active in the union through the years.
Fire chief never a meeting.
Ass chief never a meeting.
EMS chief pffffft! Gimme another cold one.
Training chief never a meeting.
Prevention chief never a meeting.
It's plain as the nose on your face why the webmaster named this site the way he did. Oh yeah, more proof that inbreeding should hurt.
TEAM: The credit is not all ours. They helped.
Received via Email 06.21.10 "Enlighten the people, generally, and tyranny and oppressions of body and mind will vanish like spirits at the dawn of day." --Thomas Jefferson, letter to Dupont de Nemours, 1816
TEAM: We'd like to give a shout-out to our friends in Brisbane, Queensland Australia and Swindon U.K. for checking-in today.
Received via Email 06.21.10 To 6-21 #2 This is nothing new. You've hit a home run with your observations but why stop there when you're so close to hitting a Grand Slam? Here's where I think you were going:
Adolf Hitler was building up the Nazi movement in the 1920s, leading up to his taking power in the 1930s, he deliberately sought to activate people who did not normally pay much attention to politics.
Such people were a valuable addition to his political base, since they were particularly susceptible to Hitler's rhetoric and had far less basis for questioning his assumptions or his conclusions.
"Useful idiots" was the term supposedly coined by V.I. Lenin to describe similarly unthinking supporters of his dictatorship in the Soviet Union.
SPF&R has several new and prospective Lt.'s that are lapping up everything Large has to offer. They're the new useful idiots.
Received via Email 06.24.10 Useless idiots
Received via Email 06.24.10 The boys from Brazille is more like it.
Received via Email 06.29.10 Where have all the SPFD funny youtube videos gone?
Received via Email 06.29.10 Dont compare the HQ boys with the SS. The SS had more tenacity, honesty and loyalty than anyone at HQ and the new Lts.
July 2, 2010
Dear IAFF Member:
I need your help!
Last night, the House of Representatives passed our top legislative priority, national collective bargaining, as part of a supplemental appropriation bill. The issue now goes to the U.S. Senate, which is expected to consider our proposal in July either as part of this supplemental appropriation or as a free-standing bill.
We need every IAFF member to ask their senators to stand with America's fire fighters. It is imperative that you contact both your senators and encourage them to support the Public Safety Employer-Employee Cooperation Act when it comes for a vote in July.
Our opponents are working hard against us. The anti-labor National Right to Work Committee and city managers are working the phones. We MUST respond. Tell your senators that America's fire fighters and police officers deserve a voice in the workplace. Ask them to support their first responders and vote for our bill.
Call or write your senators today! Click here for contact information for your senators.
Or, simply call the Senate switchboard at (202) 224-3121 and ask to be transferred to your senator's office.
Thank you. Together, we will win this vital issue.
Fraternally,
Harold A. Schaitberger
General President
Received via Email 07.02.10 This is the way a Fire Department should be run. Too bad that our worthless city and department administrations are more worried about lining their own pockets instead of looking out for the the citizens and firefighters.
Received via Email 07.20.10 I just love all of the Friday memos that Prince comes up with where he just goes and changes shit out of hand.
Message to the union: “Never interfere with the enemy when it’s in the process of destroying itself,” Napoleon Bonaparte
Received via Email 07.21.10 Brilliant
Received via Email 07.21.10 Prince and Large have met their match with Winnie and all of the time they've spent at Eckerd College hasn't prepared them for the real world. Ever wonder why Large makes his snide comments about YOUR union and YOUR union president? Because he can't hold up his end of the argument with facts. Large, you keep talking. We're all listening.
TEAM: Comrade', you've stumbled upon one of the great tactics from Sol Alinsky's Rules for Radicals:
13. Pick the target, freeze it, personalize it, and polarize it. In conflict tactics there are certain rules that [should be regarded] as universalities. One is that the opposition must be singled out as the target and 'frozen.'...
"...any target can always say, 'Why do you center on me when there are others to blame as well?' When your 'freeze the target,' you disregard these [rational but distracting] arguments.... Then, as you zero in and freeze your target and carry out your attack, all the 'others' come out of the woodwork very soon. They become visible by their support of the target...'
"One acts decisively only in the conviction that all the angels are on one side and all the devils on the other." (pps.127-134)
Received via Email 07.21.10 It is sad the brain center of our organization has become our enemy. It should be our support system, not the system that destroys. What happened to this place ??
Received via Email 07.22.10 I have watched the 13 minute educational video and I now feel extremely confident that I will be able to follow in the foot steps of some of this departments greatest headaches. I am now preparing myself for foot pursuits, jumping from moving emergency vehicles, and hours long alley patrols. Thank you Mayor Foster, Chief Harmon, and the entire Administrative Fire Staff for allowing this, my greatest fantasy, to come true. Anyone know where I can get a couple of good boot knifes, one of those old style Kel-lites and a pair of Sap Gloves? Oh yeah, I guess the shoe pimp will be getting a call for the top of the line "book em Dano" chasing boots. One more thing, under what catagory do I enter my countless "big brother is watching" hours in target safety? Can you imagine seeing my over weight ass lurking around every corner decked out in my gestopo strap belt, and all these new goodies? The bad guys will probably fall over from a lack of oxygen from laughing so hard. One last thing, where did SPPD get so many 2 man squad cars?
Received via Email 07.23.10 What the hell is Willis talkin bout in the 7.22 post?
Received via Email 07.23.10 Hey, maybe we wont need as many police officers on the street if the rest of us are doing the work for them. Thats supposed to be a joke but it isnt that funny, They are just laying the ground work for more city layoffs. BEWARE.
Received via Email 07.26.10 which two medics were "spit and swallow" from back in the day?
Palm Harbor's fire Chief James Angle was named the 2010 Florida Fire Chief of the Year, chosen out of 14 nominees.
His career in fire service began 35 years ago in Pennsylvania.
For the past 13 years, he has served as fire chief for Palm Harbor. He served as the chairman of the FFCA Health and Safety Committee, has led an active role on the Legislative committee and just recently finished eight years on the State Firefighters Standards and Training Council, his last year as chairman.
Angle is also active in the Florida Association of Special Fire Districts, working on multiple levels to improve firefighter safety and education for both volunteer and career firefighters throughout the state. In addition, he is an active member of local committees such as the Pinellas County Fire Chief's Association, the Palm Harbor Chamber and the Kiwanis Club of Palm Harbor.
Although Palm Harbor Fire Rescue is not the largest department in Pinellas County, Angle is sought out by other agencies to share and represent his leadership qualities and influence on firefighting policies and community affairs.
Angle has earned the executive fire officer and chief fire officer designation, has written and co-authored two texts published for the fire service at the national level and written numerous articles.
His work to improve the significance of firefighters in the minds of state legislators was solidified last year when the state adopted legislation creating the Florida firefighter's memorial flag, one of the first in the nation.
Received via Email 07.28.10 Also does it mention Chief Angle supports his troops. Thats why they have a great pay pension and benefit plan. Our chief supports us. Heck, we may even get a little money for our boots this year.
Received via Email 07.29.10 Large is out of that guys leaque.
Received via Email 07.30.10 Large may have a major league team under him but he isn't fit to be a minor league base running coach until he learns some basic common sense people skills. All he understands is making his superiors think he is fit for the job. But all the rest know the truth. Sad isn't it.
Received via Email 08.01.10 Wonder what Large think of himself after he gets one of us KILLED, knowing that he could have prevented it. Hope the city and Large have enough liability insurance for that lawsuit.
Received via Email 08.04.10 Unions representing police officers and firefighters start attack ad
Received via Email 08.08.10 If one of us got killed he could care less. He would sen one of his flunkies or worse yet just call the family. Then try to put the move on his wife.
Received via Email 08.09.10 Here is a question we should ask. Are the firefighters really happy(rejoicing) or are they sad (mourning) more often. This may be why.
"When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn." Proverbs 29:2 Holy Bible
If those in authority would just do the right thing. The people would rejoice.
Everyone in authority should really think about that!!
Received via Email 08.11.10 OMG!!!! did u see her she dosent even look pregnant. just FATTTTTT !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Received via Email 08.11.10 To 8/9, while the quote is accurate, the thee's and thou's are out of date,a nd the biblical refereance for those that are not Christians, well just is so republician.
Think, if someone quotes the Koran, would you be itching in your chair?
He who has done an atom's weight of good will receive his rewards, and he who has done an atom's weight of evil will receive his punishments. The Holy Quran, 99:7,8
Received via Email 08.12.10 St. Petersburg cop will remain on force despite DUI charge
Received via Email 08.12.10 "St. Petersburg cop will remain on force despite DUI charge." FYI, this is only made possible because the Police Chief believes in those that are worthy. Our Fire Administration on the other hand are just looking for a way to get rid of what we have so they can make room for their own kids that are looking for work.
Received via Email 08.12.10 Aint it funny? A couple of years ago Ray Landes took many a beatings on this horrendous site. Fire Chiefs got all up in arms about the horrible secrets that were being revealed to the world. So, what does Ray do this time? He turns the City of St. Petersburg webmail system into his new personnel advertising system complete with endorsements. Am I to trust an endorsement that comes from a past do nothing Elected Union Officer? Tommy Young was the EVP but only on days that were convenient to him, only the days he got off duty, no 2nd day off and forget a weekend. Tommy Young nows chooses to talk about how paying dues for 27 years dont guarantee nothing. Yeap he's right, just paying dues never gets anyone anywhere. In his case, he's like some of the other 157 who dont have what I do, was in a position to try to get something done but never did. But now he and the others only see the failings of the union since he/they has/have been gone. I for one am counting the minutes on my clock to see how long it will take the City to put a stop to the use of the Cities web mail system for personnal gain. If not then I guess we can all use the site to air our views as well.
Hey web master, see if you can come up with a way to automaticly add the posts to this site right into the cities web mail. That would be a hoot....
TEAM: After an errant email or two, they'd just block us.
Received via Email 08.13.10 Oh yeah, we all remember Tommy Young. He played the union part time for full time pay and then quit paying dues after he retired. He knew he wasnt going to get any improvements cause he did nothing to secure his chance for success.
Received via Email 08.13.10 Poster #3 8.12.10
If you think, and you obviously do, that Tom Young was a terrible EVP then you have every right to that opinion. If, as I strongly suspect, you have never held an office or even a stewardship in the union then you should shut the hell up. If you were and are so concerned about the good and welfare of the union's business then you should have run for something rather than just bitch and moan about the job someone else is doing. At least they gave SOMETHING. That's more than you did.
I won't expound on Ray Landes and his position as Trustee to the Pension Board. I've had a recent altercation with Ray that was unfortunate but educational. I think you're wrong in saying that he has turned the city's email system into his personal advertising system. Why are you on Ray's case? Are you running against him to be the Trustee? If not why do you give a shit what he does other than his duties as a Trustee? Do you have a plan to run against him for the office? I doubt it. Like most of the crybabies on the department you talk shit but do nothing. You're entitled to your opinion but posting derogatory statements is just petty. I doubt that the city has given Mr. Landes full run of the entire webmail. His post only included email addresses of current and retired members of the Fire Department. Not the entire city employee list. I'm quite sure that if you run for Trustee and ask that the city will be happy to provide you with the same list.
Just as an aside I would suspect that you should be more interested in how long you think you will have a pension rather than concern yourself with what Young has as a retiree. If you have been paying attention you know that there's a very strong movement to eliminate defined benefit pensions for public employees. So far the attempts have been unsuccessful in the courts but it's only going to take one in support of removal and the rest will follow. You said of Tom Young "In his case, he's like some of the other 157 who dont have what I do," meaning, I suppose, that you will have it better when you retire than he has it now. I wouldn't count on it. I said it before and I'll say it again. You better take a course on financial management because you're going to need it to manage your 401K. I recently read an excellent report on the differences between Defined Benefit Pensions and Defined Contribution Pensions. You now enjoy a defined Benefit Pension but it won't be long until you will be basking in the sunlight of a very different type of pension; the Defined Contribution Pension. Those are the one's that use the 401K as their basic program. So keep on worrying about the small stuff and watch the big stuff come home and kick your ass. If you don't know the differences between the Defined Benefit and the Defined Contribution pensions you can get it . . . . . let's see, where did I get that information . . .um, . . . oh yeah, it was in that email that the current Pension Board Trustee Ray Landes sent out.
Dick Tully
Received via Email 08.13.10 How many of you found this in your inbox this morning from the FPF? If the legislature starts talking shit this year, show them this.
FRS Retirement System Rebounds in 2009-2010
The Florida State Board of Administration (SBA) posted a 14.03 percent return for the Florida Retirement System (FRS) Pension Fund for fiscal year 2009-2010.
The FRS Pension Fund, the largest mandate for the SBA, had a market value of $109.34 billion on June 30, 2010, representing an increase of $9.77 billion over June 30, 2009 figures after net payments of $4.5 billion to retirees.
"Exceeding the benchmark return by 251 basis points, this past year's return marks the greatest return over benchmark for the FRS Pension Plan in the last 25 years," said Ash Williams, Executive Director and Chief Investment Officer. "The fiscal year results show a promising rebound from the near-term volatility of 2008, and pushed the FRS 20, 25 and 30 year returns to 8.18%, 8.98% and 9.56% respectively."
View the entire press release here.
Investment Plan Also Gets In On The Act
The FRS Investment Plan, the optional retirement plan for state employees, also posted year-end gains. With over 127,000 participants, the fund exceeded $5 billion in assets for the first time.
The Investment Plan does not require employee contributions and employer contributions go directly into members' accounts. The Plan is self-directed with members allocating their account balance among a set of 20 low cost institutional and mutual fund investment options. Vesting in the plan is one year and distribution options include lump sums, periodic distributions and a variety of fixed and variable annuities.
For more information on the Florida Retirement System, please take a moment to visit The Florida State Board of Administration's web site at www.sbafla.com.
Received via Email 08.13.10 I hope you're right in depending on these statistics. It would mean a relaxed position on the subject when the shit hits the fan. I hope you're right. . . but unfortunately it ain't over yet. There's more bad news ahead and it may take years to get the economy back on it's ass let alone on it's feet. Meanwhile these statistics may not mean much when that happens. Just give it time. If things were so good would the IAFF be fighing so hard to try to protect the defined pension system? I'm not hoping for disaster here. All I'm saying is that there's a long way to go on this matter and all the voices haven't been heard from. The point is that no matter how good one has it there's always those who will bitch and cry about how terrible everything is and how they're suffering because someone didn't take care of them before they got here and then after they arrived. Furthermore the point is that instead of whining about how terrible one perceives their lot to be it could always be worse. Be glad you have what you have. It's the best ever gotten in the history of the Fire Department in the City of St. Petersburg. Be thankful that your ass is still on the payroll and you aren't punching a cash register at Mickey's or Burger King. Get over what we all suffered to get you where you are and quit crying.
Dick Tully
Received via Email 08.13.10 As it should be for any good badass military commander, Chesty Puller was admired by his men and feared by his enemies. He always led from the front, fighting in the trenches with the men, and never flinched under even the most serious fire. One time a grenade landed next to him, and when the rest of the guys around him dove for cover he glanced at it and nonchalantly said, “Oh, that. It’s a dud.” He inspired loyalty and courage in his Marines, treated his men well, insisted on the best equipment and discipline for his troops, and had a no fear, win-at-all-costs attitude that won him fourteen medals for combat bravery in addition to countless unit citations and campaign ribbons. He is the most highly-decorated Marine in history, and a legendary figure amongst his brethren. To this day, Marines at Parris Island end their day by saying, "Good night Chesty Puller, wherever you are!"
Wherever you read the words Chesty Puller, insert Jimmy Large. Wherever you read the Marines, insert firefighters.
Received via Email 08.13.10 Someone must have read the latest IAFF news letter. I read it too. We're all doomed. No more pensions for you, or for you. That mags the gospel?
Received via Email 08.14.10 I'm really confused on the "Chesty Puller" post. Could someone shed a little light on what the poster means? Plus it got a ribbon from the webmeister. What gives?
TEAM: We don't know why the post came about but the ribbon was one of Chesty's.
Received via Email 08.14.10 If you hadn't mentioned the fact that Tommy Young ever worked in the union hall I would have forgotten all about it. Kinda sez it all.
Received via Email 08.15.10 The only thing Chesty Puller and Large have in common is, that they are both males. Other than that, the two names should not be mentioned together at all. One is a hero, the other is a zero.
Received via Email 08.15.10 Chesty Puller was a bad ass who always fought hard for his men. Large is a candy ass who never fights for his men. Seemed like a better analogy.
Received via Email 08.15.10 Anyone hear what the big deal was with the capt's and DC's meeing at the union hall the other day. Sounds like they're pissed that we're asking for a 7 day work cycle and the city wants to give them a 14 day work cycle because we asked for a 7.
Received via Email 08.17.10 I think she is only 3 months along........swolled up like a deer tick!!!!!!
Received via Email 08.17.10 I feel so sorry for Capt and DCs. WAAAA WAAAAA WAAAAA
Received via Email 08.17.10 I think He is swelled up more than a deer tick and he isn't any months along. Lose some weight fella. That message is for all you fat hogs. That will teach you to pick on girl who is on the nest. Shameful.
Received via Email 08.17.10 To 8-15 #3, it was about nothing at all. As usual, Bernie Williams showed up to watch the thieves at work and sat there like he always does. Surrounded by FF's, Medics and Lt.'s.
Received via Email 08.17.10 I think the person at the negotiations with the least amount of time on the job was 17 years. WAKE UP!!!!!!!!!!!! Before it is too late!!!!! Or DO NOT B@#$h when you do not get it your way!!
This ain't Burger King!!!!!
Received via Email 08.23.10 Water skiing pioneer Hal Elgin
Received via Email 08.24.10 Row faster slaves. The chiefs are in a hurry.
Received via Email 08.24.10 What the heck. Strong rumors afloat that Jimmy Large is retiring very soon, but only a few know it.
Received via Email 08.26.10 if you have less than 10 yrs on now is the time to jump ship, serious you guys and gals need to think about it.
Received via Email 08.26.10 I forgot the directive not to write anything about sweet or he will run to his mommy and cry.
Received via Email 08.26.10 People with less than ten years should contact Orlando fire department. Do NOT tell them where you are from or they will laugh for several minutes before hanging up.
TEAM: We laughed just publishing the fact...
Received via Email 08.27.10 People with less than 5 years should contact Sarasota or Manatee. We have a few chiefs who like it there so much, they have moved their entire family down there to get away from St. Greedysburg. Maybe we have some chiefs that are smarter than they look.
Call to Action!!! Please Come Out And Support Your Miami Fire Fighters
Please Forward This Out To All of Your Troops.
What: Come out and support the City of Miami Fire Fighters Local 587
When: On This Tuesday August 31 - get there by 12:00 Noon.
Where: Miami City Hall 3500 Pan American Dr., Miami, FL 33133
Why: The City Of Miami Commissioners are going to unilaterally cut firefighter pay 20-40%, cutting pensions and health benefits in the middle of a contract without even going through the impasse process.
City hall is 1 block north of 27th Ave on South Bay Shore Drive. One half mile south of Monty’s in the Grove.
NOTICE OF SPECIAL COMMISSION MEETING
(Miami, Florida)—City of Miami Mayor, Tomas Regalado, has requested the scheduling of a Special City Commission Meeting to be held Tuesday, August 31, 2010 at 1:00pm in City Commission Chambers, City Hall, 3500 Pan American Drive, Miami, Florida.
The purpose of this meeting is to consider and take such action as it deems to be in the public interest concerning (a) adoption of an emergency ordinance and ratification of Memorandum of Understanding allowing for early retirement option for members of the General Employees’ and Sanitation Employees’ Retirement Trust and (b) the city’s financial urgency proposals for modification of the collective bargaining agreements of International Association of Fire Fighters, Fraternal Order of Police, AFSCME 1907, AFSCME 871, pursuant to the city’s declaration of Financial Urgency under Florida Statues Section 447.4095
City residents can watch the City Commission Meeting live through City of Miami Television, Cable Channel 77 and via Internet at www.miamigov.com
###
TEAM: And that's just how quickly a city can screw you! Only the names are different!
Received via Email 08.29.10 They're just testing the water in Miami. If they succeed the cancer will spread and no one will be safe. We all kinda knew it was just a matter of time.
TEAM: It's always better to capitulate. The chief and the mayor always treat you better when you let them win. That's what we hear, anyway's.
Gentlemen -
This Tuesday, 8-31 is the Largo commission meeting where the commissioners will decide the fate of our STEP RAISES. The city's negotiating team arrogantly pushed through negotiations proposing to take away the step the entire time. We pretty much proposed a status quo contract all along the way including "freezing" the steps. After going through impasse, the magistrate sided with us and yet the city did not veer from their stance. Now, it is up to the commission to make the final decision. Brother Walt Dix will be in town to speak on our behalf.
We need a packed house desperately!
President Rosko believes we have 2 definite votes. The other 2 we need could come from the other 2 commissioners that are up for election in November. A strong showing of support may swing their vote in our favor.
Hope to see you and/or some from your Locals there!!
Received via Email 09.07.10 Girk what a fagget.... tries to get respect with sh!tting on people.
Received via Email 09.07.10 Can you believe Large actually has knight and girk running our EMS division. Large has always had a little something missing upstairs. Too bad our department has to suffer and endure the insanity.
Received via Email 09.07.10 What Girk is, is a god in his own mind that is.
Received via Email 09.09.10 After spending some quality time with some bros from around the county yesterday I'd like to sum up for you all just what's going around. With all the changes going on at SPFR, we're the place to be. Several people mentioned how stable we appear and the fact that since we're getting ready to do our own transport and make heaps of money with 3 man rescues that we've got it going on. Even a few unnamed chiefs got into the act and made mention of the fact that Steve Knight is a dream to work with and with a few more on our staff like him and they could all retire. I didn't know what to make of that last comment but I'm sure it's a good thing.
Received via Email 09.09.10 If they leave it to Chief Steve Knight they wont retire but will be gone as the result of downsizing when the county consolidation goes through.
Received via Email 09.10.10 9-9-10 # 1, sounds like your full of sh!t. Nobody wants to work with/for him except girk but, he is a weasel anyway. For the transport thing that's a couple yrs down the road. f*ck you and f*ck them.
TEAM: We think it was a pretty good attempt at levity. But keep the good thoughts coming! FTM
Received via Email 09.10.10 For those who strive to get more position and power but could care less about others, remember this quote from Matthew 16:26 "For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?
Brothers and Sisters,
As you know the absentee ballots go out this week, which is why it is critical that we get our message out about Bob Hackworth for County Commission.
L2980 is organizing a campaign walk for Bob on Saturday September25th. Our goal is to have at least 50 volunteers out walking.
We will need all the help we can get to cover the voters.
Please encourage your members to come out and support this event.
We will be meeting in Palm Harbor and the walk is scheduled from 0830 to 1200.
Please give me a call and let me know how many of our members that you expect to come out.
Thanks
Scott Sanford
Scott Sanford
President
IAFF Local 2980
(727)647-0427
TEAM: Everyone should consider helping Bob Hackworth get elected to the County Commission. Susan Latvala is no friend to the fire service and we need to help her on her way --- out! L2980 is spearheading this walk but make no mistake... Latvala's seat affects all of us, countywide.
Received via Email 09.22.10 A response to a recent St. Pete Times article:
""Newton said his membership opposes physicals..." By membership does he mean 2-3%? The vast majority of us on the department think the physicals are a good thing and a benefit. Newton, his VP and treasurer are all grotesquely overweight, so maybe that is why they are afraid of the physical exams.
If peeing in a cup and having a physical means open negotiations for better staffing, equipment and compensation, then I say bring it on.
The Mayor is right, we should be held to higher physical standards. Those that disagree are the ones who fail to keep in shape. I understand that it is hard work to do so, but failing to can mean failure on the job. Think of the military, they must pass annual physical fitness tests and urinalysis."
TEAM: We read the article and some of the comments, too. All smoke and mirrors. Winnie signed an MOU allowing you to take a physical if you so choose. Winnie was misquoted and other elements of the story are just bullshit. Take this statement for example: "Two of the station's firefighters volunteered to be drug tested, but they weren't because the union opposed it, said James Wimberly Jr., the assistant fire chief of operations."
As long as you aren't implicated in the crime, you won't be asked to piss. Nobody was asked to piss and that's the way we do it around here. When you come to work for a fire dept. whose members are covered by a collective bargaining agreement, PERC says that you as a member, can't write your own contract. You can't do what you want that may endanger your Brothers and Sisters. And since we already have a contract...
Received via Email 09.22.10 Admin always wanting to try and convict you before any hearing. Funny how all of a sudden the attorney we now have as a mayor is all for these things, but when he was a lawyer he would never allow it. Funny how that works when you become Mayor. What a joke these guys are.
Received via Email 09.22.10 To 9-22. The thing is we are not in the military. If we were.. our health insurance would be free. Medical and dental including medications. Also the department would either feed us or give us extra money each month for chow, on top of housing us for free or giving us money for housing based on the areas home prices/rent average. There is no overtime in the military. You work until the job is done, which could be never (see afganistan). This job is nothing like the military, save for the uniforms and rank structure, so lets not mention that again. It has no place here. If this department was a branch of the U.S. military, we would lose the war. In-fighting will get us nowhere. We are making enemies of ourselves. All THEY have to do is sit back and watch us devour ourselves. It is disgusting. The troops must be strong, for the leaders to be effective. We have very strong men and women. WE must stay united! The fires keep going out, lives keep getting saved. Keep your heads up gents. Dont let them know they are getting to us.
