"FTM"
"Open Wounds" should be pretty much self explanatory.  These are the stories about injustices that have been heaped upon Brothers and Sisters on the job by those in management who've forgotten what it's like - or more likely were Firefighters in name only while on their quest to a seat in the marble palace.  "F-I-N-O" or Firefighter In Name Only!  MUTT will work too. 
It would seem that some find it easer to hide their head's inside an NFPA 1500 Manual, forsaking the lives and families that we hold dear.
~~~ 


We should all be beside ourselves' with what is being foisted-off on Rob and his young family.  What do you think?

Received via email 8-10-05  Hell yes more should be pissed off. Rob has given all his years and he has always been a ID (Insulin Dependant) Diabetic. What about A certain fellow on the B shift that is the same History as Rob? Selective discrimination,,as always.. FIGHT THE POWER!!!!

Received via email 8-10-05  That should of never happened at all to Rob. Why hasn't that person on the B-shift gotten the same treatment.  All is fair in love and war.

Received via email 8-11-05  Isn't there a certain medic who works in pub ed because of a health problem and can't work 24/48?????  I am thinking the mutts found a spot for the medic, why
can't they find a spot for Rob!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Received via email 8-12-05  Rob don't give up.  Keep fighting the mutts.

Received via email 8-15-05  If your not in the CLICK, you'll always be on the outside looking in.

Received via email 8-18-05  It's my understanding that a certain blue shirt in training stepped up to the plate to make room for Rob to continue working in his (the blue shirt's) position in a 40 hr. capacity.  The MUTTS wouldn't even discuss it!  Kudos to that certain blue shirt for standing tall with his Brother Rob!  Funny how they can make accommodations for a certain few.  Shame on you.


Wife of SP Firefighter Paramedic

Received via email 8-25-05  It is my understanding that upper staff have to be able to perform as firefighter functions when called upon.  They have to meet NFPA 1500 also.  So why do we have 2 heart attacks waiting to happen, and someone who has a bad neck, that there head is about to fall off, another that has coke bottle glasses, and still meets requirements of NFPA 1500, same person who sent this guideline manual to the physician.  Top it all off a Chief, well, well, 1800-admit-it.

Received via email 8-25-05  I saw a memo yesterday that Rob is coming back to work and that the NFPA
stardard had been revised.  Anybody else seen anything?

Received via email 8-26-05  What happened??? did the city feel another lawsuit coming on?

Received via email 8-27-05  Did that have anything to do with the press conference that was held outside
Headquarters yesterday?  I heard it was the Uhuru's.

Received via email 8-27-05  It would appear that two of our members who are insulin dependant diabetics may be on the road to a break!  Can any one of us imagine what kind of time, energy and hard feelings might have been saved had this department's college educated-smarter than smart - queried the Firefighters who make up the NFPA 1500 committee?  Oh yeah... that's right... Firefighters make up the vast preponderance of NFPA's committees.  They speak, we speak, we all speak Firefighters speak!  With the Americans with Disabilities Act and American Diabetes Association threatening to suit the NFPA, could the almighty Dollar be their prime motivating factor?

And why such a hard-core penchant for throwing two of our Brothers under the bus by attempting to follow NFPA standards to the letter of the law, when the airpacks that we wear on our backs are no longer compliant with the NFPA's latest RECOMMENDATIONS?  You guessed right - it doesn't cost crapola to toss a couple of families to the wolves, but it costs a hell of a bunch to keep up with those standards that can only be complied with, with the almighty Dollar.

One of you responsible make yourself known to me.  I want to pat you on the back!

Yeah... How do you feel about filing?

Received via email 9-08-05  All team members, just hold on tight.  We made through the Hawkinsville era, I know we can suffer through Margaritaville as well.  Remember this; one of those Daiquiri Deck decisions lasts almost as long as it takes - before one has to relieve themself.

Received via email 9-09-05  I heard that Rob Dobbins put in his papers to leave.  Is this true???   If so, I hope our administration is proud of what they had a hand in by making this union brother and his family - probably make the hardest decision in their life.  Way to stand behind your firefighters!  I wonder if any one of "THEM" even give a damn!!!  I guess if he was still playing on the volleyball team things may have been different.........

Received via email 9-10-05  A short conversation with Rob is all it takes.  He's sick and haggard from trying justify why he belongs here.  Rob is one of the great Brothers who's never thrown any one of us under the Bus!  It's a shame that Firefighting is an honored profession everywhere but 400 9th Street South!

Received via email 9-10-05  I agree with the submission on 9-09-05, if Rob had been a Volleyball, Basketball, or Bud-curl member he would probably still be here with his brothers.

Received via email 9-10-05  I'm sorry to hear that about Rob Dobbins, my understanding is that you have to
be either a drunk or a volleyball player but it seems that it helps to be both because then you can do no wrong...no matter what you do or who you screw over.
Team Note: OUCH!

Received via email 10-27-05  Livin LARGE...thanks to evolution, humans made the leap from sniffing butts to kissing butts, and the seeds of management were sown.  The great thing about being a sycophant is that there's no deception going on.  You know you're a weasel, your chief knows you're a weasel, and your co-workers know you're a weasel.  And yet, the method still works like a charm.  As a flatterer, you're competing for your chief's affections (position) against people who are disgruntled whiners. You could be the most heinous sycophant in the world and still win that promotion (sycophant- a fancy word for a ass-kissing, suck-up weasel). Additional insight, when you lie about the future, that's called optimism, and it is considered a virtue.  Technically speaking you can't lie about the future because no one knows what will happen.  When you apply this unique brand of optimism (not lying) at work, that's called forecasting ...aye Ji**y. if your job burdens you with something called (Eckerd's) knowledge, then you probably have been members bugging you to predict the future of the department.  That's when you need to do some forecasting to get the members off your back (forecasting- a method invented by weasels to make people stop asking questions.. aye Ji**y.

Received via email 10-27-05  The fastest way to spot a weasel is to look at the shiny surface.  The second-fastest way is to look for people who are certain about the future.  When a person conveys a sense of certainty during times of great uncertainty, that is either a sign of mental illness called "leadership" or a sign of a weasel who is trying to get his way...pick a ji**y.
TEAM Note:  Eh... great first post.  Should have quit while you were ahead, though!

Received via email 10-31-05  Are you talking about the 2 new people on 4A - MI and SZ?

Received via email 11-03-05  So what your saying is that all the great leaders this country has had were suffering from mental illness? Or is it just the ones you don't like? And your leader in your own station, your Lt., he is mental too? Sounds like crying from those who wish they were officers but do not have the mettle to make it. And while you're at it, can you spot the weasels in your own station? They are there too. I'm not for admin bullying everyone around (which I haven't seen evidence of) but I don't think we are so squeaky clean either. It would be nice to see someone take responsibiltiy for their actions. How bout it JP, everyone knows its you. Fess up and buy the cheese for all the whiners here, and you can be the first in line. Like you've been treated so bad. I'd say your family members were very lucky to have had the chance to work here. At least 2 of you.
Editor's Note:  Quote: "It would be nice to see someone take responsibility for their actions."  Then you'll no-doubt wish to correct this injustice and sign your name to your post!

Received via email 11-04-05  Whoever added the mail on 10/31/05 need not try and bash a fellow union brother but man up and confront them personally!  This is the problem with people like you, you are a coward and if you can't look me in the face and say this crap you are the only weasel I can see! SZ

Received via email 11-04-05  Weasel..Schmeasel, people stop pointing fingers at each other.  We are All human and therefor SELF-SERVING! Don't so critical of a BROTHER or SISTER.  Although..... I would 'FIRE-MAN' up and say it to the MAN, not hide behind the PC! B.Elliott

Received via email 11-04-05  The 10/27 article was in reference to JL, not MI, or SZ who ever the hell they are.

Received via email 11-04-05  I read your 11-03 comments.  Not sure where all the concern about mental illness came from, but many of the comments on these pages are a bit fractured, anyhow.  "How bout it JP, everyone knows its you."  As to "JP" or whoever it is that you think is fanning the flames here, let's not be too quick to shoot the messenger.  This website is a window into more than a few souls around here.  You're reading it here, because it's already been said somewhere else, - not because someone's making it up for you to read.  Let's not shoot the messenger - whoever it may be.  One last comment-- You certainly seem to be appreciative of the opportunity to get your shots in on this website.  You seem to be protective of "officers."  I've kept up with this website since I first heard about it and for the most part "officers" don't get beat on here.  Officers who act like ASSHOLES get beat on here.  Now try defending them!  Officer, blue shirt or chief -- a jerk's a jerk!

Received via email 11-04-05  Who cares who thought of, started, and/or maintains this site.  This is such a small amount of what gets talked about all over (i.e. at the stations, in casual conversation outside the station, emails, etc.).  Most every big entity has a site like this and you should be happy that we have it.  Ever heard of free speech?  If you are a decent, standup person, with good intentions, you should not be offended by what is said.  If you are one being talked about, you
have every right to defend yourself.  It is unfortunate that most hide behind their comments and do not say it in person, but that can be referred to their character.  The bottom line is, this will go on whether there is a website or not.  If you feel you are being talked about, I am sure what is being said behind your back, outside of this arena is far worse, or far more than what is put on here.  Also, if you are a so-called MUTT, you could always change!

Received via email 11-05-05  C'mon now - sing along with me.... "Neener neener neener. I know who's website this is - I know who's website this is."  Big whup!  Doesn't change a word you've read here.  It's all the truth and you all know it.  I wish I had thought it up!  The mutts of tomorrow are being cultivated by the mutts of today.  While over time they may have suspected that folks caught on to their games here and there-- but here the mutts get to read first hand that they were busted long ago.  Like a previous poster said... if you feel that you are being talked about, there's probably a good reason for it!  FTM - REMEMBER WHAT THEY DID TO ROB!

Received via email 11-05-05  Wow, I made it to the site!! I am honored ! I stay out of trouble do my job, and all the other nice things a brother firefighter is expected to do. Yet we have these self proclaimed pants wearing weasel's accusing others of mental illness when in fact he or she doesn't quite recognize the extreme case of paranoia and sociopathic traits exhibited by oneself. The fact of the matter is none of us are perfect, we all live in glass (very thin) houses, yet we choose to continue throwing stones. I find it to be quite amazing how intimidating I must be to
these so called air breathing pieces of excrement calling themselves brothers who have nothing to do but talk behind your back and feel man enough about it by hiding behind the anonymity of this site. It must be the lack of a certain male anatomy that brings out the apparent inadequacies portrayed, hence the mental illness. This is the only way you can make up for such short comings.  I think we are beginning to lose focus on what is truly the main objective here, but I have been subjected to the back stabbing story telling worms employed within our organization before. I'll be the first to admit if I made a mistake or f***ed up. I may have shit in my mess kit on occasion (like many of us have,)for saying what I felt, but I don't go behind anyone's back. Those who know me, know where I
am coming from, those who don't know me, and feel ever so compelled to play this hide behind the site game; should fire-man up or just close their pie holes and crawl back into their respective little weasel holes and kiss my ever so threatening Italian ass. You are truly the enemy within. You have become what you despise. A poison to what we truly stand for, with a severe lack of honesty, integrity, and courage for what we should be representing. You pathetic coward(s) know how and where to find me on duty, or off. I look forward to hearing from you "heroes" in person. MI

Received via email 11-06-05  Wow, very well said my friend.  I finally made it to the site also.  And for that person who alluded to the new people at 4 being weasels.  Well I worked with them when they were at 13.  And even though most people do not like me. I know that I may not be the perfect person on the job, but, I have nothing bad to say about them at all.  They both are very hard working individuals. WM

Received via email 11-06-05  Everyone is entitled to their opinion.  Not all opinion  are based on fact.  No member should be unwilling to sign their post.  I understand that it's the postition of the webmaster that there should be uncensored posts for both informational purposes and discussion.  That's what keeps the site civilized.  Busting each others balls should not be part of this site.  Keep that crap in the stations.  Members are encouraged to voice their opinions but the topic should be department related or union related and not personal.  You all know who the assholes are at every level and that doesn't need to be reviewed on this site.  The level of frustration among the members has never been higher than it is now.  The local is at a critical point in a timeline that will soon play out.  The outcome of the city elections and the effect it has or doesn't have on us will soon be known.  Our announcement stating impasse after two years of negotiations is surely more important than pointing out each of the MUTTS at headquarters or at the stations.  Focus on what's coming in the next week or two.   That will be time better spent.

Fraternally, Dick Tully
President, Local 747, I.A.F.F.
1976-1980   
Too old to be a titan but proud to be a member.
TEAM Note:  The phrase, "EVERYDAY I WALK WITH TITANS" was coined, because of guys like you, Dick!

Received via email 11-06-05  Ref: 11-03 post - "It would be nice to see someone take responsibility for their actions."  I looked at that thing again and again and tried to figure out where this person was going.  I'm sure he or she couldn't possibly be making reference to the likes of any of our "untouchables" who get drunk at Union meetings or retirement and proby parties.  You know... the one's who pop other peoples boyfriend's in the jaw.  The same one's who lift other FF's kids off the ground by their underwear, damn near causing injury.  The same one's who make sleazy comments about another Brother's wife (to him) at a Union meeting!  The same one's who sit at the bar with the chief, sipping "whine" and cutting the "cheese."  Is there a double-standard in operation here that causes certain 'other' actions to take place?  Certain 'other' actions, like FF's walking out of the room when the chief walks in on Friday rounds.  "Hey chief!"  Maintaining these double-standards isn't buying the majority's love.  When we walk out of the room, we're sending a message.  This website isn't so much the problem.  The 'problem' is the problem.  As another alluded to, maybe upon a little self reflection some of these knuckleads who are going to be running this organization within the next few years, will finally wake-up.

Received via email 11-10-05  If you want to solve the problem we all need to find a way to get rid of The Bud King and his Boys.  There has to be a way.  Start brainstorming.  Taking pictures when they are at bars.  Follow them.  Let them know  "We are watching".

Received via email 11-14-05  You know it is funny.  Our so called Chief says that we are supposed to be a
para-military organization.  However when I consulted the UCMJ & I found out that most of the things that he and his so called administration have done in the past would have resulted in an immediate court martial and discharge.  So Chief, until you act the part don't preach it.  That goes for your henchmen also.  Do what is right for the dept and resign.

Received via email 11-17-05  AS the shit pile turns..
Those of you out there that have not been to work.  The New Captains promotional list is out, and jolly -gee, guess who are numbers 1 & 2?  That's right the drunken twins!  It goes to show if you suck the right ----, and offend the right people they won't take the exam, and then...  Hey your in training, and you are so close to the data base were the questions are...  Oh no say it ain't so! Well hell drunk #2 had a huge question on it about his RIG pak, imagine that!

Am I over reacting? Sh-t no. I  call it as a lot of you see it.  To 'Day,' and his s.a.b., you don't deserve the rank you have, regardless of the lofty position of Capt.!  Its been more than obvious you can memorize a book, but do you have the real authority here?  Do either of you have any respect in the companies, next to the drinkin clan?  POP QUIZ< the bridges you two have burnt, ya think they can be rebuilt??
FTM!!!

Received via email 11-18-05  Correct me if I am wrong isnt the number 2 guy on the Captains list the one that left people in a fire because he said his pack was bad.  But, it really wasnt.  I was there.  Is he a coward?  The only way to make himself look tough is to assault women and small boys at bars?  I would say you might want to stay in training where you will be liked.  Because I can tell you this... Carrot top is not liked by anyone except the drunken idiots in HQ.  I know now why HCFR got rid of your drunken self.  And Tampa did'nt want anything to do with you.  They did not want their dept to be disgraced.

Received via email 11-18-05  To the first post on 11/17: Are the voices still talking to you in your head? Everyone is out to get you.  Read your post, then take your free hand and slap yourself you piss ant.

Received via email 11-18-05  Wow hey 11-18, which one of the twins are you! It appears that someone has found your sore sweeet spot! LMAO..( who's the piss ant now? )

Received via email 11-18-05  From 11-17 to 11-18, the only voice I hear, read is the reaction of your ever so thin, skin.  Truth hurt?  Can you admit when your WRONG?  As for anyone out to get me?  Not anyone in sight..  I still have a spine, and back without knife wounds.  Feel free to take that hand out of your trousers and slap your face..  Its obvious your daddy never did....

Received via email 01-02-06  I would say that last post shut the mutt, 1 of 2. up!
Yeah!

Received via email 01-03-06  No, it did not shut me up. I am just taking it all in.  Wondering if someone will try to blackmail me next.

Received via email 01-04-06  Mangina, one of the Bud kings is quite upset, I think his p---- hurts!

Received via email 01-05-06  Take note, he's, "taking it all in".  Hummm this sounds of future retribution should he lofted to C., or god help us, Chief???  FTM & watch your back!  AS for anyone blackmailing him, no one would need to he does it enough to make his bed...

Received via email 01-06-06  You retarts are so paranoid that it is frightening!!

Received via email 01-06-06  Hold on guys, the rides not over, not Yet.  Let the ass kissers do their thing, they always do!  The group will always move on, just stick together.
PROUD UNION BROTHER. Local #1158
Editor:  Thanks for the kind words Bro'...

               Received via email 01-18-06  I can see as I watch the MUTTS scramble for Ass-kissing position at City Hall, its gonna be a back stabbing race for the Chief's Bar Stool.  In my over 20 years, I can recall on one hand the times a certain Chief visited any station.  Now he is interested in what we think, and need?  All along he was fishing for clues to as how we "feel" about this awesome web page??!!  The little birdie that has a spine told a few of us that JW will not try for the position, since he has a son trying to get on board.  IF this is true, then we need the gates open to the outside to let in fresh thinking minds.  I would even welcome Burton, and or Lewis back before the suits we have to look up at now wrestle for a position.  Stand ready to voice your thoughts about the process for Chief.  Mayor RB has a close relationship with JL, so watch out.  The fair play rule may be out the window.  The mayor's action line is avilibale for complaints, concerns, in a way where you do not need to leave a name.  The Tampa Tribune, (which reads our site I understand) isn't owned by the office of King Rick.  Exercise your right to complain, but watch what you say.  They can fire you if you say the wrong thing.. Stand tall, and FTM!!!

               Received via email 01-18-06  Ass kissing is an artform at SPF&R.  I hope some of these knuckleheads wives are looking in on this website.  "Hey hon... are they talking about you?  Are you the carrot top that they're talking about?"  How 'bout this one... "Hey hon... are you the JL that they're talking about? You must be.  You were cuaght red-handed slapping the mayor's back during his election night party!  You've gotta be... you were the only one there from the fire dept.!"  Boy - I didn't know I married such a schmuck! 

Received via email 01-18-06  Your little birdie gets around.  If my son were looking for a job, I'd tell him to look for the pension and not even come close to working for a city that's as cheap as St. Petersburg is.  We have to fight for the very same things that others have locked into their contracts.  FWIW - you'd think by the way these League of Cities lovers treat you, that they've never heard of some of our proposals before!  Trouble is - they have and the League of Cities (their union) tell them to screw us over so that we'll know better than to ask for this or that again in the future!

               Received via email 01-24-06  The worst part is that quite a few of our members help bankroll the same "League of Cities" that is doing everything they can to steam roll us.  How,you say?  Ever hear of the International City/County Management Association?  No?  How about "ICMA"?  Ah yes, the very same ones that our members choose to invest their retirement $$$$ in, are essentialy bankrolling the cities to keep us down.  The cities already have tons of money and we (US) chose to give them even more.  I know our choices are slim pickens for investing in our future, so does it make any (cents) sense to give what little we have to (THEM) so they can continue to fight US and give us even less? Me thinks that with some of the big changes that are surely to start taking place around here we might need to make a difference and remove ourselves, PD included, from ICMA,(might make a certain new chief look different in the eyes of certain persons) and make sure the Union has a GIANT war chest to battle these A**HOLES, yeah it might require more $$ from US but it would be better to fight, than to sit back for the rest of our careers and into retirement saying, "I wonder what would have happened back in '06 when we had the chance to change our own destiny".
>>>>> Let's all give this some serious thought.
Editor:  Yes, indeed... Take a look at who's just signed on to the package that we're not being offered at present at the IAFF Financial Corporation page... Tarpon Springs and Orlando are just two of the cities in Florida, offering "THE" plan.

               Received via email 01-30-06  Don't sweat it Rob.  These are the same people who are nice to your face and then bad mouth you when they're at other stations.  God forbid someone actually take their job seriously.  It's amazing.  Most of these shit-stirrers couldn't tell you correct friction losses or pump pressures, but they can tell you who lead the NFL in rushing in 1976.  Sad.

Received via email 01-30-06  What is pump pressure or friction loss? Go Steelers!

Received via email 03-20-06  only steve l knows that of steve k, oh my god i am so helarious

Received via email 04-28-06  As some of you may be aware our 2nd District Vice President of the LABOR ORGANIZATION known as the Florida Professional Firefighters, is interested in being re-elected for a new term. I have these Questions to ask:

1.) If you are ever again given the opportunity to speak toward the formation of a group into a bargaining unit, will you stress the advantages of being a part of labor? OR, will you once again talk it down because your Fire Chief buddy doesn't like it?

2.) If you are ever again given the opportunity, would you back the unions efforts to stop the illegal attempt to circumvent the contract and force a Shift rotation? OR, would you continue to tell everyone that the chief is right and the union is wrong?

3.) If you are ever again given the opportunity, would you back the union in getting R-days re-picked? OR, would you side with the Chief and again tell everyone that the union is wrong and that it will happen the way the chief says?

4.) Will you EVER make yourself seen at important union activities such as picketing? Negotiation meetings? etc. OR, will your personal financial gain as an instructor or time with your drinking buddies take first importance?

5.) Do you believe you can show or provide support to our Brothers and Sisters throughout your district? OR, would you continue to stay away at the urging of your Fire Chief because we don't want to end up like them?

6.) a. To date how much involvement have you had at the County Review Commission meetings?
b. Did you ever feel threatened by the proposals of this commission?
c. Were you ever concerned about the possibility that 50+ Brothers and Sisters in this county were on the verge of losing everything?

7.) If another group in Pasco or Pinellas county wants to organize will you offer assitance?

8.) Is this what we can continue to expect from you as our State Labor representative if we decide the other guy is not good enough and choose to re-elect YOU?

Received via email 04-30-06  AHH...Another A/C shifter who wants to have his cake and eat it to.  Oh Chief, please don't do the illegal shift rotation, but go ahead and violate the CBA and give us our R-day picks. Pathetic.  Do you people ever think before you talk?

Received via email 04-30-06  Sounds just like a FINO to me. Thanks for the recapitulation by bringing this information to light. I know it will be easier for me to make a much better decision now.

Received via email 04-30-06  To first 4-30 post...I wasn't aware of all 8 points addressed above, but I have been aware of some.  Betcha if I call around Pinellas and Pasco and ask about the one's I'm not familiar with, I'll hear - Oh yeah, that's the truth!  Wanna hear the details?

Your attempt at playing the R*** F****** role isn't working.  CBA and R-Day picks be damned!  You've gotta come up with a better attempt at a distraction for your buddy than that weak one.  That dog aint even gonna hunt!

Received via email 04-30-06  Listen redneck, I'm just going by what you are typing.  In the span of two sentences you ask that our union contract be followed exactly and then you ask that it be violated.  Which one is it?  You can't have both, which is why we are not picking r-days.  Had everyone thought it out and decided to be fair about the shift rotation you would still be picking for new r-days.  The union wanted the contract followed verbatim and that's exactly what you have now.

Received via email 04-30-06  Well, at least the A and C shift get recognized as understanding the contract. Oh yeah BTW, look who has already done the most talking and was proven wrong each time. I wonder how much thinking went on then?

Received via email 04-30-06  Thinking? Now there's a concept people like wanna be politico's should try and implement. If there is anyone that should NOT be a rep of us in the FPF its him, happy DC..Anyway that organization is not a true representation of the membership, the IAFF is..Stay strong, KTF, and as always FTM! Never trust a suit, lol

Received via email 05-01-06  True and Never trust the DC s   they are just as bad as backstabbers as SK.
They should not be in the union at all.  They should be kicked out of the UNion.
TEAM:  Wow!  All of 'em?

Received via email 05-01-06  "...never trust the DC's.  Every job has it's jerk's, but all of these guys should be kicked out of the union?  How 'bout "never trust anyone with any information that will jam you.  I know that some of them are primadonna's, but we've got enough of them in the ranks right now, from private to captain that would shurely take their place in a heartbeat and act out just the same way! 

Telephone, Telegraph, Telafireman.  Puleeeze...

FTM KTF PTB&S

Received via email 05-01-06  Hey first post of 4/30, you are one small insignificant voice from the B shift.  The rest of us B shifters don't feel the way you do. Great brotherhood trying to slam our brother A & C shifters.  Crawl back in the hole you came from.

Received via email 05-02-06  I wasn't slamming all A/C shifters, just that one, and judging from the date of your post, your not a B shifter as you say.  Nice try, but don't speak for a group you don't represent.  The majority of the B-shift was for the rotation.  As for crawling back in the hole I came from, I'm in the mainstream on my shift, and it seems you are the one sticking his head of the hole to bark your two cents.
Editor: Couldn't post from a laptop at work?  Oh my!

Received via email 05-03-06  Well, that would narrow it down to a few people.

               Received via email 05-04-06  To the 4-30 poster who's still yammering about shift rotation - I'm willing to bet you that if we hadn't had such an egotistical pr*ck for a chief at the time, a rotation might have taken place.  If he would have listened to Rick Feinberg and Julie Upman (the documents are on this website somewhere) who both agreed that shift rotation could only take place if it were bargained for (whatcha gonna offer?) then maybe it might have taken place.  I think it was less about the rotation, as it was about a fire chief who portrayed himself as being everyone 'bud', always throwing one of his underlings (chiefs) in front of the bus to dispense bad news.  He always came away smelling like a rose.  It was all smoke and mirrors!  Did any of you ever get any REAL news out of that guy on a Friday visit that he wasn't already prepared to plant?

NON DUES PAYING FINO PR*CK!

Let's not get caught up in fighting about something that WE ALL SHOULD HAVE UNDERSTOOD TO BE AN ITEM FOR THE BARGAINING TABLE!  We're not their little boys and girls!

FTM PTB&S EGH

TEAM Note:  A link to the uncovered documentation from the city's own files are located on the "Resources" page, under "Documenting the start of the Winning Trend!"

Received via email 05-04-06  Not to continue throwing stones at the B shift but I know that there are many ways to post on this site on a duty day. You could get up early and post before leaving the house,(your post is actually posted by the webmaster at his/her convinence) Laptop as previously mentioned, an R-day, a Vacation day, and oh yes, how about a Sick day.

Received via email 05-05-06  To 5/2, Yeah right, you're in the mainstream of our shift.  What, do you do visit every station every minute of everyday - you moron.  And accusing me of not being a B shifter, who the hell do you think you are? I guess you never heard of time off. You are the kind that gives our shift a bad name, trying to divide union members. It appears you don't have much common sense or experience according to you last post. Oh, but you think you're in the main stream!  The only stream your in is the stream polluting the rest of the waters among our shift and union members, jacka--!

Received via email 05-05-06  If half the effort that is exerted bitching on this site was put in to bargaining for a new contract, I would be a millionaire.

Received via email 05-05-06  If ALL the effort that is exerted bitching on this site were put into bargaining - you'd still be broke because you don't get nothing for cheering from the stands!  Bitching about other people bitching, is still bitching!

Received via email 05-06-06  True, but name calling and personal attacks won't give us a raise either.  I'm not saying that sometimes it's not justified.  I just think that sometimes we all lose focus of what it is we are trying to achieve.
TEAM:  "Mutually exclusive," perhaps?  Human nature would seem to dictate that when a veil of anonymity prevails & our focus is distracted while waiting for the 'other' side - anything goes.

Remember:  "The devil finds work for idle hands."

THIS WEBSITE MADE POSSIBLE BY THE DEVIL©

Received via email 05-06-06  The devil has a clue....: ))

Received via email 05-20-06  The devil is the father of all lies.

Received via email 05-20-06  Does anone know when the beloved JKK is coming back to town? Please hurry JK you need to pack up and take the rest of your FINOs with you.

Received via email 05-21-06  Email 05-05-06  "If half the effort that is exerted bitching on this site was put in to bargaining for a new contract, I would be a millionaire." Re: Do your job!! Quit thinking of being a millionaire.  Post on your own time - not on the tax payers time!!
R.B.?
Thats right R.B.

Received via email 05-22-06  No, but thanks for playing.

Received via email 05-22-06  RB post -  yeah right !!!

Received via email 05-28-06  "The devil is the father of all lies" LOLOL yeah right, at least the devil admitted when he screwed up! FTM!!

Received via email 05-29-06  The devil never admitted to anything, he only accuses the brethren!

Received via email 06-15-06  It seems a bit troubling that JM was passed over again for LT.  Although EH will make a good LT, it doesn't make since why JM keeps getting passed over and over.  He does a great job, he is well liked by all, except for maybe one chief, but does that deserve getting passed over for the rest of his career?  Gosh, he only has almost 20 years experience, great performance background on the street, well liked.  Is all that so bad ?? Come on!  Hope we aren't going back to the past admin. practices.  Good luck next time JM.  Hopefully some of the decision makers will look at performance rather than biased opinion of maybe one or two (who don't have a clue) !!

Received via email 06-16-06  Biased opinion of maybe one or two??  Get a grip.  Anyone who has worked a shift with EH knows he was the obvious choice of the top five. 

Received via email 06-16-06  Well, imagine that.  As you see experience and senority have no bearing on being promoted.  Maybe if JM would have drank more beer, played volleyball and got into bar fights he might have been a Captain by now.  But, as you see the good people get screwed on this department.  Look at Lt. Jackson. and the others.

Received via email 06-16-06  To 6/15: How can we be going back to past practices?  What good ole boys have been made in the past promotions?  Gosh, gee, oh boy yes JM would do a good job just like EH.

Received via email 06-17-06  Don't take anything away from EH.  Yes experience and time on the job (not the same thing) should mean something, but not the only thing.  By the way EH was never one to bump, set, or fight.  He will do a great job.

Received via email 06-18-06  Dear 6/16. EH has skills and is a good guy, but for God sakes! Get you're head out of his ASS!  JM has a lot more street savvy that EH has. (For now that is). He will gain it as he gets more experience. Think about that one.. FTM FTP

Received via email 06-19-06  Dear 6/18, I think you're the one with his head in someones ass.  Working with JM is like spending the shift with Mr. Magoo.  The other choices:  The Marlboro Lady,  The youngster, And Mr. "I can't handle it on my own shift/Why do I keep getting passed over/Suckass." Seems like a no-brainer to me.

Received via email 06-19-06  Point is, JM has been passed and passed for what reason?  He does a great job !  Sure EH is a great guy, but lets go back to the promotion of KM over JM.  JM has been passed over more than once, and why the hell would he even think of taking another test?  He has almost 20 years and probably about 15 years in taking the promotional exam, oh not to mention he does an outstanding job on the street and is well liked.  But oh, that doesn't matter.  Lets just screw him and demotivate him, heck public service doesn't mean squat, its about who likes who and who doesn't like someone.  FTM every last one of them !!!!!

Wesbmaster Note:  I've received way too many emails today concerning who got promoted and who didn't. While I do endeavor to publish EVERYTHING - I'm going to kill this thread.  None of us knows the motivations behind every promotion and we're not going to solve it here.  Budget hearings are forthcoming and we need to help our City Council Members see the light.  Let's work together to help our elected officials see that there are in fact solutions to our pension benefits problems and that they need to be implemented sooner than later.

Thanks,

Jojo Stalin 

Received via email 06-19-06  Good point editor.

Received via email 06-28-06  Wonder what people would think if we gave public service like our Mayor and City Administration give?  Never really caring about the people and taking their time responding.  Good thing the Fire Service cares about the citizens and making a quick response.  Can you really imagine if we were greedy little selfish folk like they are?  I am proud of this entire department keeping public service #1 and never slowing on our response times, even though our city administration has the complete opposite priorities and care about public service. KTF, someday we will get paid what we are worth.  Heck Hillsborough and our neigboring beaches know how to take care of their own!!!  Maybe some day our city will follow the example of these leaders that care about their public and public servants!!

Received via email 07-06-06  I just finished reading Mr. Big "6"s farewell letter. This should be required reading by all members of the local. Lets print it out and send.. KM has hit the nail on the head. We are the many that risk life and limb, not only while on duty and responding to calls, but during insane 100'F training days. We, as a group, need to voice the reasons for why we think it is not natural to drill us repeatedly to the point of falling out. There was once a DC that had fallen from grace. He was unique in his own way, but I can recall on more than one occasion he canceled outdoor training in the heart of summer and turned the drill to an inside, think tank, scenario driven classroom experience. We could say what we thought and not feel the threat of getting singled out as a malcontent. Why not bring back these "use your brain meetings?" If you could let us talk instead of making us listen to some stooge read page for page out of some ICS or stand-down book... oh well you get the picture. You think that GL would ever have the thought to let us freelance a drill? I can do things without reading the whole book... I wish the best to Kevin! St Pete Beach has gotten another good one! Stay safe, and hydrate!
FTM FTP

Received via email 07-15-06  Hell Gl is a joke.   He is lucy he is not back in the companys... he is the one who the soldiers would turn on and    HMM  maybe have an accident?

Received via email 07-15-06  You know you people are so pathetic.  Get a clue. 

Received via email 07-16-06  It really isn't the fault of GL, just his many years of FINO programming. Maybe a blanket party would work as well here as with the keepers of Oracle. (see related comment on the bullshit page).

Received via email 07-16-06  Hey 7/15. When, and what qualifies to call the members that have constructive criticism, pathetic?  Isn't this still a free country?  Just because we don't quake at the approach of a GL, or wanna be suck as- bungholes, makes us pathetic?  If you desire life as a sheep being lead to slaughter, then you go right ahead, and shake his royal dic- for him.  Clues are what real members, with conscience have.  We speak our minds, have self respect, and actually care about what happens here, even to suck ups as yourself.  So don't be so quick on the draw to stand with the leaders that haven't worn turn out gear in years.  It took lightening and storms to get a deferment on night drills until September.  Good for us, but bad for the brothers and sister firefighters that went to Ed White.  So take a look inside yourself, and stop being so anal! FTM FTP!

Received via email 07-16-06  To the first post on 7-15: What the hell are you thinking? Even if it was meant as a joke, it is in very poor taste. I am not his number one fan by any means but would never wish harm to anyone. Think next time before you have diarrhea of the mouth. Politicians, media types, citizens from all over read this stuff, look for the dancing monkey on the home page if you don't believe me.

Received via email 07-16-06  I like and respect many things and opinions displayed on this page, but to the first 7/15 post......you are an ASSHOLE.  I can't believe that you would make an assinine statement as you did.  Get a life!

Received via email 07-24-06  Come on ! quit picking on little GL, he has enough problems being himself, why try and make it worse on the lil fella !!

Received via email 07-24-06  Cubby is the biggest fu-k-p in the entire city administration.

Received via email 07-25-06  Chief GL please retire and leave.  No one wants you anymore, have you read or heard what almost everyone has been saying about you for the past several years. If a vote of no confidence was given, you would have been gone long ago.  WAKE UP and LEAVE!!  You are the only real weak link in our administration that is keeping us from moving ahead.  

Received via email 07-31-06  GL is a swell guy, why is everyone picking on him ?

Received via email 08-09-06  Hey is it true Lt RF filed a grievence because he felt his OT was getting infringed on.  If so, all I can say is UN friggin believable.  Poor guy only made over $90,000 last year. 

Received via email 08-09-06  Who cares.  He's no longer in the loop and never will be.  He was stuffing his pockets with 'our' money long before he bagan ripping the city off!

Received via email 08-09-06  Well when you have 2 X wives, and a kid you had to buy a job for... hell he needs $$ and lord knows he wouldn't last in the companies! GO FTM!

Received via email 08-14-06  How can you blame RF for making $90,000 last year? The city isn't giving us a pay raise. If you had the chance you probaly wouldn't turn down 90,000 either.

Received via email 08-14-06  I think that there are some of us, that would have had the moral thought process, to, lets say, "share" the ot with the other's in their division?! (remember the trouble another certain LT got into when he did too much OT a few years ago? wait, happyjman wasn't there then.) Ya think that once in a while He might think of someone else?!? What the hell Am I saying!
LMAO! FTM FTM

Received via email 08-16-06  dont you people have better things to do with your time than write about ricks o/t?  you dont say a word about the few firefighters that try to suck all the o/t they can get. If you were in ricks place you too would take all the o/t you could get.  Dont forget its all about making money for you and your family.  Were all in the same boat with the city, 3% offer sucks.  make as much money as you can and if that means working o/t well than work o/t  and quit your bitching.

Received via email 08-16-06  There are many that are out for the brotherhood, the team, and their crew.  Then there are those who are out for only themselves, what is best for their personal gain or recognition !!   Mmmmm, can anyone think who they are ?  Of course, we all know who they are, but they will never see it, because they are just to damned selfish.  They always have been and always will be a pain in our ass. But guess what !  Some day their sorry asses will finally retire.  Unfortunately, that day is not soon enough !

Received via email 08-16-06  Like the so called brotherhood who would rather work ot instead of collect for MDA. Not only RF is screwing the system.

Received via email 08-25-06  I have made a comment to the 8-16 post three times and it has yet to appear.  What gives?
Webmaster:  Dunno?  3X?  Try it again.

Received via email 08-26-06  Selfish, that's an interesting way to put it.  I'll have to disagree.  Some of us aren't in a position where we can not work on our days off.  Until the city starts paying me more or you start paying my bills I'm going to work OT.  I'm sure the few hours that I didn't spend with you begging for money wasn't going to make that much of a difference.

Received via email 08-26-06  Why not help out the people who are trying to get you a raise. You knew how much a firefighter makes when you took the job. Do not live outside your means.

Received via email 08-27-06  Just an FYI to Selfish, who doesn't think it makes a difference "begging for money". For each person that gave up 3 hours of their time for the souls that are afflicted with any one of the many different types of Neuromuscular Disease, "THEY" averaged $50 for every hour spent on the street.  That's $150 dollars for each weekend, or in other words, about $100.00 more than you whored yourself out for in those same three hours.  So if you don't think that $150.00 doesn't make a difference, why do you do it for $50?  If you consider it beneath you to go "begging" for a cause, then I guess you don't need to go to the chief to "beg" for O.T.

Received via email 08-28-06  I wouldn't be living outside my means if my pay raises kept up with the cost of living.  You ever heard of those little things called "children"?

Received via email 08-28-06  Quit, find a better job that will pay what you get for your HS diploma or GED. Mcdonalds is hiring.

Received via email 08-28-06  With current staffing levels where they are, there is no need to beg for OT.  Just sign up and your sure to get it. 

SHOUTING via email 08-29-06  THATS CRAZY THAT YOU PEOPLE THINK THAT SOME ONE WOULD OVER LOOK THEIR FAMILYS NEEDS FOR SOMEONE ELSE NEEDS.  THERE WERE ENOUGH PEOPLE OUT THERE TO GET THE JOB DONE.  WHETHER IT IS 50$ OR A 150$ THAT MONEY HELPS YOUR FAMILY.  FOR YOU TO THROW THAT IN SOMEONES FACE SHOWS WHAT KIND OF PERSON YOU ARE.  PERSONALLY I AM GOING TO WORK OT OR WORK A SECOND JOB UNTIL I AM ABLE TO TAKE CARE OF MY FAMILY SUFFICIENTLY. UNTIL THE CITY STANDS UP AND DO WHAT IS RIGHT.  UNTIL THEN I AM GOING TO DO WHAT IS RIGHT.  TAKE CARE OF MY FAMILY.

Received via email 08-30-06  8/27 sounds like the cheese burger kid, but since I don't know, we'll leave it at that.  To assault an honest, obviously family man/women, is an insult to all of us that have children.  He is right. Many years, I worked a part time job.  NOT because I wanted to, but because I HAD TO.  You were probably in elementary school, or suckin on your Mama's tit back then. If you have a problem with people, members, or NOT doing what is right, morally, etc, then I will hope and pray you never had children, and if you do, don't make them second fiddle to the FD, Union, or MDA!! Remember your families First!

Received via email 08-31-06  There is a lot of pissing and moaning about people collecting or not collecting.  There are also a lot of people complaining that they had to work OT or a second job, and they could not collect.  However, most people who were on duty had the opportunity to collect while they were working.  This is a benefit that we have not had in the recent past, yet there were still many who could not even find the time to do this while on duty.  I know there was training, CME, and calls to run, but there were some crews who did all of these thing and STILL found time to do this.  I'm not saying that I think you should have gone and collected on duty, but quit bitching that you had to work OT or your second job and saying that is the reason that you didn't collect.  Just say that you did not want ot do it!

More than half that are always working OT do not even have families.  The family men/woman were out collecting.  Helping the cause.  The same ones picketing, the family men/woman to get better pay, while the other ones work OT. 

Received via email 09-01-06  Does it count if you did not collect but put money in the boot?   It's really important to me that I be accepted by you snivelling self righteous whiners.

Received via email 09-01-06  I heard that somebody donated their car on boot drive day.

Nah... they donated their boot during a drive-by.  I think it was mayor assh*le!

Received via email 09-01-06  8-31 do you think that people work OT or work a second job because they want to.  personally i would rather work ot and and take of my family then participat in the boot drive.  lets talk about the ones that didnt show up at all.  the ones that didnt have an excuse at all.  talk about those guys.  the ones that work ot and have second jobs are the ones that are getting all the shit.  how backwards is that.

Received via email 09-01-06  About as backwards as your punctuation.

TEAM:  Feel the love...  two replies to the above are being held in the sin-bin!

Received via email 09-01-06  It seems to me that all this discussion about working ot and such falls on a basic principle. First and foremost we are our own worst enemy. When it comes to working o/t this is business 101. If I owned a business making and selling widgets and it was self sustaining, why on  earth would I put more money into the business? Therefore if the Fire Department is self sustaining then why is the city going to put more money into it ?  Hint "THIER NOT." Every single day the organization operates in a staffing deficit. Any one that reads this knows that to be a fact .But at the same time we all raise our hand and shout pick me ! I want to work o/t

Well wake up brothers stop pimping yourself out ! If the part time money is that important go get a part time job ... And I don't me the part time FD stuff .

The discussion has come up that if we stop working ot then we will all be manditoried.  Well then if that is the case, lets have some clear interpretation between the city and the union about what is considered mandatory ot.

Received via email 09-04-06  When did we start selling widgets? Where can I get mine? How much do they cost?

Web master.  Is the sin-bin, the place where you put the answers that are so plainly and painfully truthful, slap you smack in the face, that you feel we would laugh so hard we would be in danger of hurting ourselves?  If so, thank you for looking out for our well being.
Webmaster:  You'd laugh for sure.  I'm just not sure everyone's wives would be laughing, though.  It's some of the very same stuff that you hear at the station, so you've heard it before!

Received via email 9-16-06   RE: Rural Metro in our own backyard.

These firefighters need our help.  The Airport Authority has bid out the fire department to Rural/Metro.  There is a Sarasota/Manatee Airport Authority meeting scheduled for 0900 on Tuesday September 19, 2006 at the airport.  The building is located around the back to the left as you enter the main gate.  The informational picket will begin @1200.  Not sure how that is organized but they need bodies and moral support.  I hope to see you there.

Please pass this along so we can show them what happens when they destroy the careers of firefighters.

They may be only 16 firefighters but they are all union brothers and sisters.  There are many small departments in this state that could one day be a target.

wjc

Suncoast Professional Firefighters and Paramedics

Received via email 10-31-06  Its been almost two months since a comment here.  Looks like our old wounds are healing!!

Received via email 11-05-06  OK, here's one, the cops are spending something like $90,000 plus on a consultant to find out why they're loosing officers. The fire department's YEARLY CAPITOL IMPROVEMENT BUDGET IS (about) $40,000, it's no wonder the station 8 guys had to scrounging on TV to get somebody to fix up their station.

Received via email 11-06-06  Yeah, I'd like to see the mayor live in some of the conditions we do. Such as exhaust fumes daily in the fire house from our apparatus, roaches and rats in many stations, deplorable conditions such as opening in walls and or ceilings in other stations.  Yeah Yeah, its always the captains fault. BS.  They put in for items and never get them.  If a health inspector inspected some of our fire houses they would fail easily.  But, wow, the mayor has marble and Greed all around his lazy ass, and he doesn't even respond to help those in extreme emergency situations.  Figure that !!!

Received via email 12-01-06  TEN THOUSAND DOLLARS!!!!!! The City of St. Petersburg has now decided that it will take a gamble on your lives and NOT purchase new NAAK kits for each employee. They will now be kept in one central location (probably next to the body armour that was taken from the rescues last year), (has anyone seen these lately?) After extensive research it was discovered that no member of SPFR had ever had his skin fall off or was eposed to a nerve agent attack during the past 6 years so therefore it only makes sense that we don't need this form of protection. How is it they deceided to keep them all closer to the HQ building then on the units on the streets?

Received via email 12-16-06  So, the latest memo from the chief shows a concern that some of us may choose to avoid the Annual Department Holiday Party as a show of displeasure over the contract progress. What and miss a free lunch? He don't know poor hungry Firefighters and their families. I plan on showing up with doggie bags. BTW who would want to miss an opportunity to speak a few kind words to our fine Trusted Elected Officials. Maybe they will choose to picket us in retaliation. That would be a HOOT.

Received via email 12-18-06  What happened to the Annual Christmas Party?  Are we getting a little liberal or what???

Received via email 12-21-06  A little too liberal? Shit if we/they were more liberal, I am sure a lot more members would be there with their children, without the fear that one of the kids will get the underpants yanked up by a drunken good ole boy! Who cares about the Fire Rescue party when you could have attended the Union Open house - rub shoulders with the members of the now and past...Hummm this would be a "no brainer"...Happy holidays---><

Received via email 12-22-06  Here here.  Hang with the UNION, what a concept.

Received via email 12-25-06  To those that missed the annual event, you really lost out. Mayor Beaknose made sure his presence was included in any photo op that came along. He played football with your children and even got the impression that some how he had something to do with collecting the goodies for the "adopted" families. Yes siree what a pal, and you guys missed out.

Received via email 12-31-06  Someone has been visiting the stations trying to find out why some on duty crews chose not to attend the Christmas Party? Maybe it had to do with the special guest's? Maybe some of us can't stomach the heartburn being dished to us. Whatever the reason, I thought it was our choice? Guess not.. When are we going to learn?

Received via email 01-12-07  Well, once again we have been duped into falling head over heals to try to make this city look good.  While the bean counters can't find money for our families, I see they have no problem in finding money for supplies for us to spruce up the stations. If they cant find money to pay us as Firefighters then why do they expect - and why do we continue to work in areas that pay higher wages than ours?  This city constantly finagles us into extra work for no pay.  Yeah I can hear the "pride" stories already.  Where is the city's pride in having well compensated employees? Look around, they don't care. This city is full of contractors they pay dearly for their licenses so that they can work in this town.  We are doing each one of them a disservice by taking their jobs and doing them for nothing.  Staff inspections are supposed to be how the administration plans their upcoming budgets for the new year.  We do all the work for free and make it Disney World Clean, then the "Boys" go back to HQ and think once again, "Did you see how nice that station was?  They don't need anything." Oh yeah, lets not forget to vacuum the refrigerator coils and to sand and paint inside the flashlights where the batteries rub.

Damn its another GREAT Day in St. Petersburg.... I get everything done on the cheap..

Received via email 01-12-07  Remember back in the day, when you did not dare touch up or repair anything without the blessings of Eddie Meyer and Bernie Cash? God bless em both. Not even the wanna be Chiefs or the full fledged Chiefs opposed their decisions.

Received via email 01-14-07  ? any truth to our so called paramedic instructors (SN) and others, being fired from the college down in manatee county?

Received via email 01-14-07  No truth to that. Just a rumor.

signed,

a paramedic instructor from another department "SPB".

Received via email 01-14-07  Fire him?  Are you kidding?  'Yes men' are hard to come by.  When you find one, you don't fire 'em, you pay 'em extra!

Received via email 01-15-07  Notice a trend here, mandatory training 2 hours per shift, the ole yearly staff inspections, and more work than ever being piled on all without compensation.  As long as everybody smiles at the divisions chiefs as you meet and see them, they will continue to pile it on until the plate falls off the table.  Come on, let 'em know how you really feel, quit being a bunch of push overs.  Stand up to these wimps that come around with their little cruise boat uniforms trying to get every bit of attention they can get.  Hey, we firefighters, emts, paramedics, company officers and DCs do all the work, not these bunch of so called div chiefs that are living in a world of make believe, thinking that they are the commanders of the Love Boat !!   

Received via email 01-15-07  The "Love Boat" uniforms are their way of making them feel that they are not one of those guys. We are so way much better than those ordinary peeps.  Talk about dividing he ranks.

Received via email 01-16-07  LOVE BOAT MY ASS !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Received via email 01-16-07  Capt Stubing to the rescue !

Received via email 01-16-07  I thought Isaac from the love boat was cool.

Received via email 01-17-07  Try Captain stabbing.com

Received via email 01-17-07  They were all after the girls.

Received via email 01-17-07  The chiefs always say we are one big happy family (just like the Love Boat)!  Mmmm, wonder why anyone would ever want to leave our great dept. for another dept.?  Besides, as the Mayor always says, "It's another great day in St. Petersburg!" Oh heck, were a little under staffed, over worked, under paid and our future pension looks grim, but besides all that - It's a great place to work, especially for Medics!!!  Where else can you go and be a Medic and be trained so well in pulling a hose load off an engine?  Where I ask you - Where??? 

Received via email 01-17-07  A big dysfunctional family around the dinner table, and Mom & Dad refuse to admit anything is wrong!

Received via email 01-17-07  Screw it all I am moving to North Georgia.

Received via email 01-19-07  I am truely sorry to see Gulfport go.   Good job WN!  Who's is next?

Received via email 01-19-07  Go ahead and move. You can worthless bs on the site with d tully.

Received via email 01-19-07  Word has it that they're throwing another blanket party for one of us.  Just like Rob Dobbins, the spineless p***ies downtown fight for no one but themselves again.  You guys suck.  Remind me how much you suck by smiling and saying HI to me the next time you see me!

Received via email 01-19-07  Given the fact that the Gulfport guys are where they are with their contract -- today, it's a pretty good sign that we've done our job for them.  They're ready to leave the nest.  But--- please don't go high fivin' each other likc some have when you score a big 2% pay raise after leaving.  No one will believe you're really all that happy and you'll look kinda dumb!  Good luck - you obvously know what you're doing and if I do say so, it frees us up to work on St. Pete, Lealman and South Pasadena's contracts.  AMF

Received via email 01-19-07  Please enlighten me how the President of OUR union is to blame for Gulfport leaving?  Did they not get their nice contract?  I know you would never post your name on here, but maybe you should come to the next union meeting and explain how it was Mr. Newton's fault, hmmmmm?

Received via email 01-19-07  I thought we took on Gulfport and the other little FDs in the first place because we thought we would be going county eventually,  but now nobody seems to want to go that way. Given that these little teensy weensy FD's probably cost us more than we get from them, why not let them all go without an argument, should they choose to do so?  It's not good riddance, more like good luck.

Received via email 01-19-07  Gulfport is cute because it's just like a real fire department.

Received via email 01-19-07  MJ, Why stop the medics at 72? If they do all the work they should be paid more than a district chief. Go to sunstar and tell me what you top out at. When does work load affect pay? Do the auto makers make more than the ceo's?  Yes I am a wannnabe lt. on the list and supervisors should be paid more than the people they are supervising. If you pay the medics more than the ops lt's then the lr should take care of all your needs and other issues. Become an LR if you want the money.

Received via email 01-19-07  Who gives a rat ass about Gulfport? If they want to leave let them. They do not contribute enough $. If one of their members needed legal help, 747 would surely be footing a majority of the legal bill. More than Gulfport has probably contributed since their existence.

Received via email 01-19-07  The Gulfport guys got what they got because GFD got sick of losing all of the employees to other departments. 

Received via email 01-19-07  1/19 #5:  Good one.  I'm sure that it took you the better part of an hour to come up with the name and union meeting attendance comeback.  It took me so long to respond because I was looking for your name at the bottom of your post.  I don't care to post my name and don't want to go to the meeting to hear the same bullshit about how secret everything always is.  Last time I was there someone asked a questions about how many members of council we had on our side, and that was a huge secret.  I will pay my dues and bitch about what I don't like via this website.  But thanks anyways for the advice. 

On another note, Gulfport did not contribute a ton of cash, but you will appreciate what they contributed when our dues go up.  Just wait!

Received via email 01-19-07  I don't see any reason why a supervisor should make more money than a subordinate if the subordinate has higher training.  How  can you support that theory, 1/19 #8?

Received via email 01-19-07  What did Gulfport get?

Received via email 01-20-07  Hey 1-19 #3...I am courious about the blanket party, who's it for ?

Received via email 01-20-07  Medic training vs 4 year degree. Yes 4 year degrees can be bought but we have some medics that seemed to get their certification from correspondence also. "yum yum"

Received via email 01-20-07  1st 1/20 Blanket party goes to another BROTHER (ours - not theirs) who's found himself taking a pharm that the NFPA (No F***ing Pair At-all) says that a FF can't take.  I'm not at all sure how anyone on this job found out what he's taking, but if it came from his own lips --- word to the wise folks, "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" works really well for the military.

Gotta bring a note from your Dr.?  Do so.  "Little Johnny was under Dr.'s care from 12-13 to 12-29" and if you need any further info, FAGETABOUTIT!

Gotta take a city physical?  Do so.  Sign nothing, write little.  If there's something wrong with you, the Dr. will find it.  If not, FAGETABOUTIT!

Received via email 01-20-07  1st 1-20 to 3rd 1-20, thanks for the bit of info, and I want to say you are right, everyone should keep their mouths zipped when it comes to ones own health and the NFPA, Dr D knows the whole NFPA front to back and is more than willing to use it to make his point. (he is a smart...but scared little man). My advise to all is to read the NFPA, it's boring but it will make you realize just how short your career could be. Start with 1900 and see just how many city buses will be need to cart us off to the old ff retirement home. Best of luck to whoever the guy/gal is who is having to go through this bs "you make your bed and you have to sleep in it....but sometimes someone else makes your bed and it's not mommy or the sweedish maid at the Fourwinds.

Received via email 01-20-07  Do like some of our chickenshit chiefs.  Show up on the day that the good Dr. isn't in the office.  Oh that's right.  It's those same people who schedule you and me to see Dr. Dickweed!

Received via email 01-22-07  Are they still getting away with that crap ? What a crock. I guess that's one of the perks of clawing your way to the top, we should all be chiefs.

Received via email 01-22-07  Here's an interesting story.  A Fire Fighter loses leg and returns to job and we're supposed to be worried about working side by side with a longstanding BROTHER who's taking Coumadin!  Is there anyone downtown who got their bugles by being the least bit heroic or wasn't that a course offering at Eckerd College?  I ain't worried about him bleeding on me.  I'll take the secret blood handshake with "The Handsome One."  How 'bout you?

Man-up... we're taking names!

Received via email 01-22-07  Coumadin! Most of the the pricks with bugles have too much Estrogen.

Received via email 01-22-07  Did anyone down town get their degree the old fashion way, by going to school and earning it?  One... Chief Ballou.  The only senible one down there.  Please excuse my spelling i went to Eckerd too!  What high school did Ch L go too?

Received via email 01-23-07  It is not Chief L it is Chief Dingleberry.

Received via email 01-23-07  Eckerd- most liberal school around, write yourself a degree..Whata f***ing joke.

Received via email 01-23-07  Its easy to cut down a school, when you have never earned any kind of degree. Anyone - Anyone who has a bachelor's degree or higher would know you are just a bit ignorant in your reckless comments.  They have all worked hard to earn it.  Any accredited school in the State of Florida is tough, unless of course you have never been !  The college school system's accreditation process is worthy of its purpose, unlike the joke of the accreditation of our department, which is filled with lies, crap, and kiss ass opinions.

Received via email 01-23-07  I wish we could all be as smart as the ones that get to go to College.  Think about how this City is run by a bunch of College grads now, then think of how it would be if we were all so educated. It takes all of us dummies to make them look good. Common sense will take you further in life and especially on this job. I can sleep good at night.  Can they ? Can you?

Received via email 01-24-07  ANYBODY can go to college.  Its just  a matter of how bad you want it.

Received via email 01-25-07  How come GL the chief of training who advocates all to get education, doesn't even have a degree.  How did that midget get in that position anyway.  Oh yeah, he might have gotten someone hurt on the fireground as a DC, so we promote him to Div Chief,   Makes sense !!!!!

Received via email 01-25-07  I'm pretty new on the job with only 4 years but didn't GL get promoted from a Capt. to Div. Chief?
TEAM:  Yes!

Received via email 01-25-07  True most real depts require their Chiefs to have real degrees that means DC's also.  How many DC's do you know are that smart or just coast through the online classes that Knight teaches.  Or should I say that he gives them the answers to so he can get his money.

Received via email 01-25-07  Did'nt GL have a major medical problem a few years back? I think he was still considered a good ole boy, so they gave him the cushy job. Now people with less problems than what he had, are being forced out, BY HIM.....

Received via email 01-26-07  Cubby, lives in a vacuum.

Received via email 01-26-07  GL is great and loved by all......

Received via email 01-29-07  Div Chief GL has little man syndrome.  He knows he will never measure up to what he should have or could have been as a real man, so he tries to bully everyone else around, especially those who may have medical or other physical problems.  Rather than helping them succeed and get stronger, he wants to push them down and keep them down until they finally leave, because if they do succeed or grow stronger it will make him feel like the loser - that everyone else already knows that he is !  Poor lil ole cubby, just an angry frustrated little boy that forgot to take his prozac !

Received via email 01-29-07  It's sad how Doctor NFPA enforcer can override any other medical doctor, and GL backs and supports the Doctor.  What the heck is all that about?  Good news is, now that we are abiding by all the NFPA guidelines, we are sure to abide by NFPA 1710 and have 4 on every engine and 5 on every ladder truck for the whole 24 hour shift every day.  About time!

Received via email 01-29-07  I miss Rob Edwards.  And he hasn't even left yet.

Received via email 01-30-07  I wouldn't trust SK anymore then I trusted his dad. They are both a**holes.

Received via email 01-30-07  Where is Rob Edwards going?

Received via email 2-01-07  Longboat Training Chief.

Rob could get almost a $50,000 increase down there along with a take home car and some form of matched investment account.   Allegedly there is already talk about conferences in Hawaii and London. Not to mention private office (they say it has a view of the Gulf) and a secretary.  Nobody has mentioned if she is hot or not.

Received via email 2-01-07  Deleted!

2-02-07 #2 ......one thought for you, UNCALLED FOR. Rob E. dosen't deserve that.
TEAM:  Sorry 'bout that.  We just made the connection.  We really do try to catch those!

2-02-07  Well half of the people getting bashed on here do not deserve it.

2-03-07  Well then stop the bashing!

2-04-07  no, it is too fun.

Received via email 2-08-07  Who's the blonde on R5A?? She's easy on the eyes, but a retard.
TEAM:  She's actually a highly trained Paramedic/RN.  Are there any other questions from the Sunstar bleachers?

Received via email 2-09-07  Actually the pm is not a retard. She is very smart but there is a blonde riding today 2/09. SS are the initials. I do not think she is a retard either but I am known as a water head.

Received via email 2-09-07  SS knows it all...just ask her

Received via email 2-09-07  Stanley Steamer?

Received via email 2-10-07  I though it was slim slady.

Received via email 2-10-07  Don't hit Sunstar too hard, at least they can manage to pay their people.
TEAM:  Touche'

Received via email 2-11-07  Anyone want a Spritzer?

Received via email 2-12-07  I heard everyone can get s taste or a SPRITZER.

Received via email 2-12-07  What does a spritzer taste like?
TEAM:  Not haveing checked - have we hired someone named Spritzer?

Received via email 2-12-07  Why dont you ask her boyfriend of 4+ years.  I heard he works for Clearwater FD.  Or be a better person and call Spreitzer 7-a......

Received via email 2-13-07  No one is safe or nothing sacred on this site. To Editor, why must we post the shit where we are bashing innocent troops? A great morale booster. I thought our fight was with the city and the chicken shit chiefs we have in the palace.
TEAM:  Agreed.  But as we've noted before, this site isn't the voice of the troops, but merely the messenger.  And what do we say about the messenger?  Listen - you're no doubt commenting about a remark left on another page.  Fine.  The trouble with a lot of the remarks left on this board, lies in the fact that without a complete story or explanation or full name, etc., the majority of us are clueless as to what's 'really' going on.  You can't imagine how many emails pass through here in a week where we ask "who the hell is this 'MG' (example) that they're talking about?"  It would appear that this is what people do when they've got idle hands.  And what do they say about idle hands?

Received via email 2-13-07  That these idle hands are ignorant assholes!!!!!!!!!!!

If we really want the 'complete story' then give the full names. What's really going on is a lack of unity and guess who's fault that is, the senior firefighter. The senior firefighter was either taught this type of rhetoric or they forgot the teachings of their immediate predecessors. Which is it? When I came on the job, I was shocked at the attitudes and the dinner table talk. Not just the content, this is America, but that it happened in front of a 'new guy'. The same veterans I heard talking poorly about the local and International are now the torch bearers for the battle. Give me a f***ing break. If everyone of LU747's members would step back, look at themselves closely, identify the enemy and stive to a common goal, we would prevail at all endeavors. Until then, we'll always suck hind tit. Thank you and God Bless America.
Fraternally yours,
John Travolta
P.S. DC Fire sucks and couldn't hold your jockstraps

Received via email 2-13-07  John, take your meds and go outside and wait for L. Ron.  His spaceship will be arriving shortly and he'll whisk you off to where everything is perfect.  And to the true believer who uses your name and then berates those who won't sign theirs please pull down my jockstrap and kiss the 9" white snake.  That's better.  Now you're both doing something you enjoy. 

VCF

Received via email 2-14-07  So you mean I cant sleep with my LT or sit on his lap to keep me out of trouble?

Received via email 2-14-07  If your only sleeping with your Lt. you got alot to learn. None of it is worth while . And none of it will get you anywhere . Just be true to yourself. No one likes a suck ass. If you can't make it on your own your not worth a shit any way. Life is short don't f@#$ it up being a suck ass. You know who you are !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!11 LIFE IS WHAT HAPPENS WHILE YOUR BUSY MAKING OTHER PLANS !!!!    JOHN LENNON

Received via email 2-19-07  Lets get this site back to what it was designed for. Lets start asking, WHY? Ask Chief Lanning WHY he is so set on making sure no-one finish's their career here? Ask Chief Wimberly WHY he is so set on making sure that everyone that gets written up, has to face some sort of discipline, no matter that the findings show there was no wrong doing? Ask Chief Large WHY does he not stand up in front of the Council and the Mayor like we have seen the Police Chief do and point out the problems that are facing this department? Ask Chief Ward WHY he cant get some help for the medics on this Dept? Ask Chief Jolley WHY he cant put a stop to the constant misuse of shift staffing and put an end to the daily drain of engine and truck companies?  Then lets ask ourselves WHY do we continue to accept the asinine ideas that come out of the offices of our leaders that can only remember what it was like back in the 70' and 80's. We need to get more involved than ever and UNITE and become the team that this UNION is supposed to be. Lets ask WHY at every turn.

Received via email 2-19-07  Asking those individuals "WHY" will be like asking your child the same question.  You will soon find out that they don't teach any other way.  After they get theirs it makes no sense to allow anyone else to get to their level.

Received via email 2-20-07  I got a better idea! Instead of asking Why, lets ask the UNION to vote and get a vote of no confidence for all of them.   Yeah Baby!!!!

Received via email 2-20-07  Because you have retards running the dept.  Do away with promoting minorities and retards and then you will have a real dept.  Come on JW.  Do you really belong in that position if you were white?  Maybe you need to beat your wife drink too much and back stab your own people to get promoted.  Thats how it is done here.  Oh yea. Promote the kids of parents who wrote the test.  I support you Randy.  TW is just another SK.  Everybody knows that.  He uses his timidness to deflect problems.

Received via email 2-20-07  So Why don't we ask eachother why we are turning on each other.  What happened to the BROTHER and SISTER hood.  Oh wait, I get it. Let's just turn on one another and make the department feel like shit instead of looking at the people that are causing the problem, instead of the people that are positive and not turning their backs on the Brothers and Sisters.  Bash headquarters and the city council.  Don't bash people and assume you know anything about them.  Let's look at the REAL problems!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  Start posting things that matter, not peoples personal life! And if you can't do that, GROW SOME BALLS AND TELL THOSE PEOPLE YOU HAVE ISSUES WITH AND STOP BRINGING INNOCENT BROTHERS AND SISTERS DOWN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  TRY TO SHOW THE NEW PEOPLE WHAT ST. PETE FD CAN BE LIKE WITHOUT DEPENDING ON THE CITY, AND HOW WE CAN DEPEND ON ONE ANOTHER, MAYBE NOT FEELING LIKE EVERY TIME WE TURN AROUND AND BE FRIEND SOMEONE, WE ARE GOING TO GET STABBED IN THE BACK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

HOLLERING 2-21-07  I WAS JUST IN STRAIGHT DOPE AND LEFT A POST AND COME IN HERE AND WONDER WHAT IS ABOUT MINORITIES YOU GUYS DONT LIKE.  THE POST FROM 2-20 #2.  WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME A MINORITIE WAS MADE A LT OR A CAPTAIN.  IN THE LAST 5 YRS THERE HAS ONLY BEEN 2 MINORITY LT'S MADE. ONLY 1 MINORITY CAPTAIN MADE IN THE PAST 10-15 YRS.  ONE A WOMAN AND ONE BLACK.  ITS FUNNY TO SEE THAT KIND OF POST BECAUSE I AM UNDER THE PREMISE THAT YOU THINK THAT SPFR IS BETTER OFF WITHOUT THE MINORITIES.  THAT A WHITE MAN WOULD DO A BETTER JOB.  THAT THIS DEPT HAS ALWAYS GIVEN THE MINORITY A HANDOUT. A REAL DEPT AS YOU PUT IT DONT BASH THE VERY PEOPLE THAT THEY WORK WITH. WE ALL SUPPOSED TO WORK TOGETHER TO MAKE THIS DEPT WORK BUT THERE IS ALWAYS ONE A--H---- IN THE GROUP THAT MAKES US LOOK BAD.   POST 2-20#2 LET THE MINORITIES THAT YOU WORK WITH KNOW HOW YOU FEEL, THAT WAY WE WOULD KNOW TO KEEP YOU AT A LONG ARM DISTANCE.  THAT WAY WE WOULD KNOW NOT TO TURN OUR BACK ON YOU.  ITS FUNNY YOU HAVE MADE US THE ENEMY BUT THE ENEMY IS RIGHT ACROSS THE STREET FROM THE MFS.  THEY ARE THE ONS F--K--G YOU, NOT THE MINORITIES.

Received via email 2-21-07  For one, you should learn to spell.   That should answer some of your questions.

Received via email 2-21-07  Not saying a minority would do a bad job. There just should not be any special treatment, not that there was for mimorities. Score high enough, be in the top and get promoted. No, they should not go to ST on the current list because he is black. AY is a minority, she scored very well and was promoted, even ahead of some good ole boys. So take the black/white, men/woman, thing and shove it up your ass whover is bringing this up again.

Received via email 2-21-07  I have no problem with minorities on the job.  But it is still a stupid place for a woman to work.
Ward Cleaver

Received via email 2-21-07  You are being hard on the beav again Ward.

Received via email 2-21-07  Re: YELLING

I have to assume you're yelling about my post of 2/20/07

YELL all you want but the fact still remains that no matter who gets promoted or what system they get promoted by there will always be those who think the person promoted was the wrong one.  It has nothing to do with the color of their skin or their abilities.  The "YELLER" himself thinks that there's a "system of nepotism" in effect.  The promotional system of the seventies was clearly what it was.  I was there.  I know what happened.  However it should be noted that there were very capable and well liked minorities that were promoted also. 

The "rule of three" was merely a history lesson but if you stop long enough to analyze it it's a better way of promoting than what we have today. 

I in no way intended to demean or take away from CG, BW, or any of the monorities whether they be women or blacks.  There was no intent to insult any one individual.  But I stand by my statement that the system is skewed and like everything else it's politically correct.  And it's not going to change any time soon. (See sentence #1)

WEBMASTER...Don't hesitate to add your red ink.

VCF

TEAM:  Two post's didn't quite make the qualifying round tonight.  Try again, folks.

Received via email 2-21-07  I just think we should all remember that it is not fair if there are two candidates that are equally qualified that both beat the shit out of their wives with a pistol and put them in hospitals that one or the other gets preferential treatment based on race or weinie size. In these cases, and they happen all the time, the wifebeaters should be allowed to beat on each other with pistols until only one man remains. If he lives, promote the tough bastard. 
I am Mrs. Fixit, and it's just that easy.

Mrs. Terri McGraw

Received via email 2-21-07  Who would you rather promote: A wife beater or a pole smoker?

Received via email 2-21-07  What is the rule of 3's?

Received via email 2-21-07  Wasn't there a white Lt. that sued to get promoted because he was passed over because of race?

Received via email 2-21-07  FOR ONE I AM NOT YELLING.  I TYPE IN BOLD LETTERS BECAUSE I WANT TO.  WHAT DOES IT MATTER. HOW THE F**K DO YELL ON A COMPUTER.  TO 2-21 #2 SPELL THESE, "NUTS IN YOUR MOUTH."  YOU PEOPLE HAVE MISSED THE POINT.  ALL I AM TRYING TO SAY IS, "WHO IS AFFIRMATIVE ACTION WORKING FOR WITHIN THIS DEPARTMENT?"  YOU GUYS KEEP SCREAMING AFFIRMATIVE ACTION, AFFIRMITIVE ACTION!  WHO HAS IT HELPED? TO POST 2-21 3# WHAT MAKES YOU THINK ST IS GOING TO GET PROMOTED?  ITS THE SAME RHETORIC.  YOU'RE IN HERE CRYING ABOUT SOME SHIT THAT HASNT HAPPENED.  SOMETHING THAT MAY NEVER HAPPEN.  IF YOU FEEL THAT WAY, TAKE THAT UP WITH ST AND LET HIM KNOW HOW YOU FEEL.  YOU WON'T.  NONE OF YOU WILL.  YOU WILL COME IN HERE AND CRY LIKE BITCHES.  "THE MINORITIES ARE TAKING OVER THE DEPT THROUGH AFFIRMITIVE ACTION."  WHAT ARE YOUR SOLUTIONS TO THE PROBLEM?  I KNOW I CRY LIKE A BITCH. TO POST 2-21#.  WITH RESPECT, I AM NOT YELLING.  I JUST CHOOSE TO WRITE IN CAPITAL LETTERS.  IF I WAS TALKING TO YOU MAN TO MAN I WOULD NOT BE YELLING.  FOR EVERTHING ELSE YOU ARE RIGHT.  WHEN I READ YOUR POST I GOT A LITTLE DEFENSIVE.  SORRY 

Received via email 2-22-07  The only thing I have about minorities on the department is that the black guys make me feel bad about my little white wienie when  we shower.  That's about it, really.
TEAM:  More info than we really needed to know, shorty!

Received via email 2-22-07  Stereo type, they do not call me tripod for nothing.

Received via email 2-22-07  How come the city treats our Union Pres. like crap? Me thinks they play the game, that their not predjudiced but they actually are.  Think about it.  No other union pres has been treated with such disrespect from our city administrators.  Well guess what City Admin.  We FF's are not predjudiced and we back our union pres. So quit being such a-- holes!
TEAM:  No other Union President has shoved it up their ass and twisted it off.  We would venture to guess that he's going to break it off in their ass again, right after the impasse hearing.  Another year of bullshit stonewalling - we think not!

Received via email 2-21-07  Wasn't there a white Lt.
that sued to get promoted because he was passed over because of race?
History lesson.

Received via email 2-22-07  A recently retired Lt. PM, challenged the "one for one" promotion game way back when...  Long story short, it went on, and on, rescheduled, courts, etc./ Finally, he got promoted when it was his turn! I can't remember if he kept up that fight after he got bugles. (Or were they LT Bars back then?) Getting too old for this shit....
TEAM:  We love old guys.  They are the repository of all the department's knowledge.  Just ask one!

Received via email 2-23-07 What makes me think that ST will get promoted?  The fact that he was pulled aside by a division chief and told that they wanted to promote him, kind of points me in that direction.  If he was in the top ten they would not have made this latest promotion and would be waiting for another officer to retire.  Argue it all you want, but you know it would happen.

Received via email 2-24-07  Well at least with the veteran point do hicky, it dropped ST out of the top 15 so some strange doings would have to happen in order for this promotion to work.

Received via email 2-25-07  2-23 #1 YOU ARE LYING.  THAT IS THE KIND OF SHIT I AM TALKING ABOUT.  YOU ARE COMING IN HERE AND TELLING A BOLD FACE LIE.  ALL THESE IF'S.  YOU GO FROM SAYING THAT THE DIVISION CHEIF TOLD HIM HE WAS GOING TO PROMOTE HIM TO A LT - TO, IF HE WAS IN THE TOP 10 HE WOULD BE "YOU KNOW IT WOULD HAPPEN".  THESE ARE HIS WORDS.  READ THAT POST.  KEY WORD IS "KNOW IT WOULD HAPPEN".  THIS GUY IS LYING AND YOU GUYS ARE GOING TO SIT RIGHT HERE AND SPREAD THIS BASELESS RUMOR. 

Received via email 2-25-07  Is it just me, or is anyone else offended by the "Penny for Pinellas" signs that have been popping up near fire stations lately?  I  just drove by one at my station that I intend to remove when I get back on duty.  Whether you like the Penny for Pinellas or not, and for the life of me I can't understand why anyone would vote to raise their own taxes without a specific need, it is wrong for the county or the cities to promote an issue that is on the next ballot.  They are actually using tax dollars to sway an election which is arguably illegal, and certainly unethical.  Okay, I admit that I am against the Penny for Pinellas.  Some of you are not.  But I think most people would be if they called it what it is: a nearly 17% hike in local sales tax.  It ain't just a penny.  It's a substantial raise that we residents pay MOST of (tourists pay less than a third).  We are not a poor county, but has anyone noticed that the state hasn't followed our lead? And this is after 20 years!  Now that the state is considering changing the way we tax our homes and supplementing the loss with sales tax, I think it's a lousy time to support our own over-taxation.  So they built a few firehouses with the money. So what?  Did it put  more bread on your table or help pay your mortgage? Vote yes or no, that's up to you.  But don't let them use YOUR firehouse to politic THEIR beliefs.  Take down the signs.
Samuel Adams

Received via email 2-25-07  Penny of Pinellas money bought our last 5 new fire stations and one rebuilt one, not to mention all the apparatus it paid for.  Heck with all the money the City saved by letting the county pay for the above, you would think we would get a heck of raise. NOT!   Because The Greedy of St. Petersburg is all about controlling their money, not sharing it with the work force, who keep the city running. Here's some advice... do you want a fair wage for your work? Then you better go work somewhere else. 

Received via email 2-26-07  I was at one of my neighborhood association meetings when a spokesman from the city budget dept said that the St. Pete fire dept buys all their new fire trucks with the penny from Pinellas.  Is this true? And if we are being told there is not any money because the city doesn't have any, than where is the penny money.  Or did it go to make the DC's feels better with newer vehicles along with the staff?  You wonder where their priorities are.  Have broken down trucks or look good in your new SUV?
TEAM:  The city's purchasing vehicles.  They just don't spend "their" money on any of them, though. http://www.stpete.org/pennyforpinellas.htm

Received via email 2-26-07  Seems like an easy transition to a county FD in the future.

Received via email 2-26-07  2-26 No.2-- Don't bet that it still can't or won't happen.  The county is as much an opportunist as the city of St. Pete.  With the probability that Suncoast Fire and Rescue will fall and be taken over by Pinellas county, a few more slaps in our face by the likes of the city of St. Pete along with some more anti-medic moves on the part of our administration and we might go courting.  It was stated before by Winnie Newton, with Callahan and others on hand to hear it - if the county were to follow Statute 175 as it deals with labor - our local wouldn't have a problem with jumping on-board.  As quickly as labor supported this administration in it's efforts to hold onto it's fire department, it could all go away in an instant with the right combination of politics and the full support of labor.  The taxpayers and the county don't see the fire chiefs as having much of a voice (other than that of desperation) while labor is very large and loud.  This city has to realize that there's more at stake than simply settling our contract.  They're doing a piss poor job of attracting new hires as well as keeping what they've got.  A ten year old department like Hillsborough County Fire seems to have figured out who's got the bigger pr*ck.  Maybe we should introduce our 'little' pr*ck to the county administrator again!

Received via email 2-27-07  Bring it on!  We're way too top heavy.

Received via email 2-27-07  I am all for a county fire department.  You guys really like the way our city is treating us?  Do you think that the 1200 firefighters and paramedics in Pinellas really need 24 chiefs?  Do you think that averaging everybody's pay would NOT be to our advantage? Do you want a shot at getting your own 175 money?  I say GO COUNTY!

Received via email 2-27-07  COFD,I say we should do it. We could assign all of the Chiefs Jersey's similar to the ones the Greyhounds wear and watch them all try to justify why they should keep their jobs. It will be fun.

Received via email 2-27-07  What, you mean Chiefs would lose their jobs. Oh no, the tradgedy.  Would they do background checks on them?  Oh no.  Well unless they had a sex change.

Received via email 2-28-07  There are 3 too many D/C'S as it is. The city always talks about saving money. They had the perfect chance when Roger left. There were 3 D/C's openings at one time. They could have done away with those 3 and put 3 guys/gals back in the companies. OH NO! WAIT! THAT MAKES SENSE! HEAVEN FORBID WE DO ANYTHING OUT OF COMMON SENSE!!!!!!! If the good citizens of St Pete ever found out how top heavy H.Q. is they would be up in arms.

Received via email 2-28-07  Cut 2 DCs, but put one on a 40 hour week moving magnets full time.  They say it's exhausting so lets dedicate a full time man to it.   Then the other 3 DCs can do whatever the hell it is they do. Wait. Then they would do nothing. Okay, go back to plan A. Just 3 DCs. Sorry I said anything.

Received via email 2-28-07  Let me guess which one we would do the back ground check on and which one would have the sex change operation.

Received via email 2-28-07  Those chiefs are the ones that are probably telling bigbird that suppresion is tooo big, thats why they need to be bigger.

Received via email 3-1-07  If one DC got a sex change operation, who do you think it would be?

Received via email 3-1-07  Why don't we get rid of the 3 DC's and just have a light duty FF do manning. I don't think we need a guy making DC's pay moving magnets. That's my story and I'm sticking to it.

Received via email 3-1-07  I personally think that we should expand the public education division, they do more work than anybody else on the department.
TEAM:  Agreed!  We can use all the help we can get, getting the message of our plight - out!  Should they work directly for the Union?

Received via email 3-1-07 It wasn't just one Lt who sued there were a few others involved as well.