Member News

Marin Professional Firefighters, IAFF Local 1775, regrets to inform our membership and families of the passing of Brother Michael Thomas Ortelle, Sr. (Mill Valley Fire Department, Alto Richardson bay Fire Protection District, Southern Marin Fire Protection District).  Mike continued to represent and serve his brothers and sisters in the fire servcie after his retirement as he battled ALS, becoming a spokesperson for MDA, the IAFF's primary charitable cause, and helping thousands struggling with ALS and Muscular Dystrophy.

Born April 14, 1960, the son of the late John and Evelyn Ortelle, Mike passed peacefully, January 2, 2017 surrounded by his wife and children.  Michael served his community at Wilmar Volunteer Fire, Mill Valley Fire, Alto Richardson Bay, and Southern Marin Fire Districts for over 25 years and continued that service in retirement as a Police Chaplain for the Petaluma Police Department, serving with his brothers in blue up until his very last days.  Mike also served his church family at Calvary Chapel Petaluma for many years.  Mike’s greatest joys were his family and friends.

Marin Professional Firefighters congratulates Pete Davis (CMD) upon his retirement after a lengthy and succesful career.  We apologize that the invite to his retirement party arrived in our inbox too late to make our New Years Newsletter.  Congratulations, Pete!

After “34.70” years in the fire service, Pete's schedule now looks similar to

Congratulations on the recent retirement of these members of Local 1775!  Your service is appreciated, and your accomplishments will not be forgotten.  Current and future members of Marin Professional Firefighters will continue to fight to protect the funds you saved, the benefits you earned, and the rights you fought for during your long careers.  Happy fishing.

• John Bagala (MRW)
• Breanna Buchanan (MRN)
• Kelly Bradley (TIB)
• Brent Chadwick (MLV)
• Pete Davis (CMD)
• Mike Giannini (MRN)
• Richard Hamilton (SNR)
• John Higgins (CMD)
• Don Keylon (MRN)
• Paul Smith (KNT)

Members of Marin Professional Firefighters, IAFF Local 1775, will attend the Vincent J. Bollon Affiliate Leadership Training Summit January 24-26, 2017 in Anaheim, CA.  Attending are: President Briare; Vice President Bagala; Treasurer Larkin (NOV); Political Director Martin; Shop Stewards Moran (SOM), Tribolet (MRN), Bernadini (NOV), Gabbard (CMD), Day (LRK), Standfield (RVY), Alviso (SNR), Lewis (SNR), Jamotte (RVY), Golden (SOM), Keady (NOV), Fleckner (MLV).

Whether you are an experienced or new IAFF affiliate leader, there is always something to learn.  At the Affiliate Leadership Training Summit (ALTS), local leaders gain valuable knowledge from distinguished presenters, IAFF staff, and experienced Partnership Education Program (PEP) instructors.  In addition, ALTS offers pre-conference events, workshops, information sessions and networking opportunities to help members strengthen leadership and union skills and become a better representative to our brothers and sisters in the fire service.

Ross Valley Fire Department would like to extend an invitation to send off Craig Carroll at a baseball themed retirement party, January 28th, 2017 at the Dugout Bar (Log Cabin) in San Anselmo!

Craig has been a wonderful friend and long time colleague to many of us for thirty years, including service as Shop Steward to Local 1775.  Please join us in celebrating his career and transition to a well deserved retirement.

Movember is upon us and its time to start growing moustaches to raise awareness for Prostate Cancer!

In addition to helping raise awareness to Prostate Cancer, we are raising money to help find a cure.  Last year we raised and donated $2000, and this year we are looking to beat that.

Messing Adam & Jasmine LLP (representing Marin County Fire Department Firefighters' Association and Marin County Management Employees Association), in coordination with co-counsel Leonard Carder (representing Marin Association of Public Employees), and Weinberg Roger & Rosenfeld (representing Service Employees International Union Local 1021, CTW, CLC) has petitioned the California Supreme Court (Case No. S237460) for review of the disastrous opinion from the First District Court of Appeal in Marin Association of Public Employees, et al. v. Marin County Employees' Retirement Association, et al., California First District Court of Appeal, Case No. A139610. 

As of Monday, October 24, 2016, the briefing on the Petition is complete, and we await the high court's decision on whether or not to grant review. As you know, this is an important case, and support has been strong. Petitioners have been fortunate to receive letters from numerous amicus curiae advocating review and supporting depublication of the First District's opinion.  

The 2016 Local 1775 "Scoop Day" was very successful. We are very thankful to the Lappert family for hosting our Scoop Day as part of our Local 1775 October Breast Cancer Awareness program.

Local 1775 and Lappert Ice Cream presented $1,383 in donations collected from Pink t-shirts sales, and a generous donation from the Lappert Family, to Zero Breast Cancer organization.  Attending the presentation is Engine 52 Jeff Endaya (L-1775 Chair for October Breast Cancer Awareness) Dave Cornell, Nate Clark; Local 1775 President Bob Briare; the Lappert Family Michael, Isaac, Andrew; and Rose Barlow, Executive Director for Zero Breast Cancer.

Kentfield Fire will sponsor a Blood Drive Tuesday, November 15 at Fire Station 17.

When:
Tuesday, November 15th
2:00pm - 7:00pm
Where: 
Fire Sation 17
1004 Sir Francis Drake Blvd
Kentfield, CA 94904

The Tiburon Firefighters Association voted to affiliate with Marin Professional Firefighters, IAFF Local 1775.  The Tiburon Firefighters will now be recognized as the Tiburon Professional Firefighters, IAFF Local 1775.

The Tiburon Professional Firefighters, IAFF Local 1775 are the last professional firefighter Association in Marin to affiliate with the Marin Professional Firefighters, IAFF Local 1775.

Marin Professional Firefighters brought the 3rd annual Scoop night to Lappert's Ice Cream Parlor in Sausalito, raising awareness and funds to help fight Breast Cancer.  The IAFF's October Breast Cancer Awareness program is chaired in Marin by Jeff Endaya of San Rafael Fire Department.  Volunteering with Jeff this year are Andrew Lappert, Jordan Russell (Corte Madera FD), Ryan Day (Larkspur FD), Nick Gonzalez-Pomo, and Esteban Cespedes (San Rafael FD.)

Lappert's Ice Cream was a great host for the Scoop Night. Marin's Firefighters thank Michael Lappert for his support an generos\ity to help promote Breast Cancer Awareness!

After an extensive review and interview process, Marin Professional Firefighters, IAFF Local 1775, has issued endorsements for candidates and issues it believes best represent and protect the issues most important to firefighters and the communities we serve.

Federal

President of the United States: Hillary Clinton

Local 1775 Members,

There is a lot at stake in the upcoming elections for you and your family. From safety, to funding, to basic worker rights, it's important that firefighters and paramedics back an experienced candidate with a proven record of fighting for the issues we care about the most. That's why the Marin Professional Firefighters Local 1775 urges you to support Hillary Clinton for President of the United States.

 The Marin IJ ran this article October 5, 2016, providing an overview of the important appeal filed by MCFDFA and MAP regarding your vested rights and MCERA retirement benefit calculations.

By Richard Halstead, Marin Independent Journal

Firefighter's Scoop Day to help raise funds for Breast Cancer Awareness will be October 15 at Lappert's Ice Cream in Sausalito, 689 Bridgeway, from 12-3PM. 

Zero Breast Cancer will also participate to provide cancer awareness information 

I wanted to share with you this announcement from CPF regarding a Statewide Safety Stand Down and a call to attend the Firefighters Memorial Ceremony October 15, 2015.

Marin Professional Firefighters have more than our fair share of Fallen Firefighters that are memorialized on the marble walls of this memorial. We remember our fallen Firefighters on our web site www.iaff1775.org.  If you can, I encourage you to attend the Firefighter Memorial.  If you can't attend the memorial then take a moment of silence to honor our fallen Firefighters. I will share with you that I often think of my fallen brother from Alto/Southern Marin Captain Jeff Wilson - 2001.

Governor Jerry Brown has put the wraps on the 2015-2016 legislative session, and pro-firefighter legislation has once again fared well.

The govenor signed every one of the CPF-sponsored measures that reached his desk, as well as several that were co-sponsored by CPF.

The Barber Family has elected to hold a private service for family only. They appreciate all of your condolences.

Hotel group rate offered until September 23

Please mark your calendars and plan to attend the 2016 California Firefighters Memorial Ceremony, which will take place on October 15, 2016 in Sacramento's Capitol Park.

All fire service personnel, families and members of the public are invited to attend. 

It is with our deepest sympathy that Local 1775 announces the passing of Mary Barber. Mary is the wife of Dan Barber, Battalion Chief, Tiburon (Retired) and long time Local 1775 member. Our thoughts and prayers are with Dan and his family.
A service date has not been set, but we will announce that information when received.

Marin Professional Firefighters, IAFF Local 1775

Marin Professional Firefighters sent three Delegates, three Alternates, and a guest to the 53rd IAFF Convention in Las Vegas this month.  Attending were President Briare (SOM), Vice President Bagala (MRW), Secretary Lando (MRN), Alternates Tribolet (MRN), Larkin (NOV), Standfield (RVY), and guest John Grey (Local 1775's attorney).  Delegates at the IAFF 53rd Convention spent the week making decisions that will guide this union for the next two years and beyond. Read more about the votes and decisions your colleagues made about your union:

• Schaitberger Re-Elected General President, Kelly Elected Secretary-Treasurer
• Executive Board Elections
• Introducing the IAFF Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health Treatment and Recovery
• Delegates Pass Resolutions to Reduce Cancer, Reaffirm Commitment to Behavioral Health
• PTSD, Cancer Awareness Are Focus of Satellite Media Tour
• Delegates Make Collective Bargaining Top Priority
• Delegates Resolve to Fight for Greater Resources to Combat Wildland Fires
• Per Capita Resolutions Unanimously Supported
• General President's State of the Union Address
• Resolutions Honor A. Michael Mullane
• General-Secretary Miller Recognized in Special Tribute Video
• Miller, Taylor, West and Ferguson Bestowed Emeritus Status
• 16 Outstanding Local Leaders Receive Leadership Award
• Central Florida Wins Bid for 2020 Convention

*** See All Convention Coverage ***

Breanna Buchanan (MRN) served Marin Professional Firefighters as MDA Chairperson from 2009 to 2015. She brought new life to our most important charity cause, taking Fill the Boot from a record $21,000 in her first year to a high of $50,000, still the all time record for Fill the Boot fundraising in Marin.  As Chairperson, Breanna helped raise $264,000 for MDA and represented all Marin firefighters in our most important and public charity.

At the July Local 1775 meeting, the Executive Board thanked Breanna for her service as MDA Chair and presented her with an IAFF Helmet Shield and plaque.

Fire Velo Presents the 2016 (The 10th Annual) San Francisco Bay to Los Angeles “Fire Service Cancer Awareness” Bicycle Ride August 21st – 27th as a fundraiser for Fire Service Cancer Awareness.

Ride starts at 9 am at Sausalito Station 1 and finishes at Half Moon Bay Station 40 on August 21.

Join CPF and IAFF presidents in support of fight over pay, staffing & working conditions 

Firefighters from CAL FIRE Local 2881 are in the midst of a difficult contract fight, and are taking their case to the steps of the State Capitol.

The Marin County Employees Retirement Association (MCERA) announced yesterday that Chris Cooper (San Rafael Fire Department) has won the election for Safety Representative. There was a very high voter turnout.  355 safety members voted in this election.  The votes of Marin Professiornal Firefighters' members carried Chris to a narrow victory.  Without our members' participation, this victory would not have been possible.

Chris Cooper received 184 votes while his opponent received 171.  We have 252 firefighters from NOV, SNR, SOM and MRN that are members of MCERA. 

When: Monday September 19, 2016
Where: Bay Club Stone Tree, Novato, CA

8:00 Registration and Putting Contest
10:00 Shotgun Start - Scramble Format
4:00 Awards Reception, Raffle, & Auction

Election for Marin County Employees Retirement Association Safety Representative.

Marin County, Novato, San Rafael and Southern Marin members and retirees.  It is extremely important that we elect a knowledgeable and friendly member to the MCERA retirement board as the Safety representative.  Please take a minute to vote using the ballot that was mailed to you!  Local 1775 STRONLY ENCOURAGES all of our MCERA memebrs to vote for Chris Cooper for Safety Representative on the MCERA Retirement Board.

CPF 2016 Endorsement List

June 7, 2016 Statewide Primary Election

General Meeting Notice

LOCATION: Marin Joe’s – private room
IAFF LOCAL 1775
Date: June 9, 2016
Time: 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM – VOTING

Principal Item of Business: VOTE to increase Union Dues

Dear Local 1775 Member,

Marin County Fire Department retirement party honoring Mike Giannini & Larry Thompson

Friday, May 27th 2016 at 1700 hrs

Dear IAFF Member,

By now, you have probably seen images of the massive wildfire that is currently raging in the city of Fort McMurray, in northern Alberta, Canada, and are thinking about our Local 2494 members who are doing their job protecting the city and its citizens while their own families and homes are at risk.

We have endorsed Kate Sears (District 3 - Marin City, Mill Valley, Southern Marin and Tiburon) and Katie Rice (District 2 - Larkspur, Corte Madera, Ross Valley, Kentfield, San Rafael and Marin).  Following candidate interviews, and based on a lengthy history with both candidates, Local 1775's Political Action Committee has formally endorsed these excellent candidates.  Marin County Supervisors are extremely important seats to all Marin firefighters, and the support and votes of firefighters and their families are critical to help elect them.  Kate and Katie have demonstrated their strong support of our members in a tough political environment, standing up for your benefits, pay, and safety.  Now it's our turn to stand up for them.

Proceeds Benefit the California Fire Foundation

Watch the San Francisco Giants take on the Cincinnati Reds and show your support for the California Fire Foundation at the Firefighter Appreciation Night at AT&T Park, presented by AAA.

Monday, July 25, 2016 at 7:15 PM
AT&T Park
San Francisco, CA

2016 is an election year for Officers of the IAFF and CPF, your National and State labor associations.  As Local 1775's leadership attends the 45th Biennial CPF Convention this week, our endorsements bring the voice of Marin's firefighters to the IAFF and CPF.

Marin Professional Firefighters, IAFF Local 1775, is part of the IAFF 10th District and the CPF 4th District.  This year our incumbent IAFF 10th District Vice President Jim Ferguson and CPF 4th District Vice President Randy Sekany are not running for re-election. Also, incumbent IAFF General Secretary/Treasurer Tom Miller is not seeking re-election.

Members of L1775 Political Action team completed a successful trip to Washington DC and I want to share some highlights.  

Ken Martin (SNR), Jason Hatfield (SNR), John Bagala (MRW), Jason Golden (SOM), and Mario Bernardini, Jr. (NOV) traveled to Washington DC to attend the IAFF Alfred K Whitehead Legislative conference.  While there, we heard from a variety of speakers ranging from sitting Senators and Governors, to a member of the Department of Labor on topics of FLSA and wages.  Mario completed the IAFF's rigorous "Political Training Academy" a few weeks earlier, and all Marin firefighters will benefit from the political networking, campaign skills and leadership, and direct lobbying experience afforded to our members by this follow up visit to the IAFF Legislative Conference..

After 28+ years of hard work and dedication Brent Chadwick is sailing into retirement.  Join Mill Valley Fire Department as they offer Best Wishes on his Retirement!

Friday, May 20th, 2016 at 5:00 p.m.

In an unexpectedly short and swift ruling, the United States Supreme Court preserved the right of public sector labor unions to collect fair share fees.  In a one-sentence, 4-4 ruling, the Court left in place a 9th Circuit ruling in Friedrichs v. California Teachers’ Association that relied on the 1979 Supreme Court decision in Abood v. Detroit Board of Education, which approved fair share fees.

This means that unions will still be able to make non-members contribute to the cost of negotiating better wages and benefits.

Did you know you can contribute to the California Fire Foundation when you file your state income taxes?

California law allows taxpayers to contribute money to one or multiple funds by checking a box on their state income tax return. Contributions must be deducted from a person’s tax refund or added to the amount owed.  Donations made through the tax checkoff may be claimed on a charitable contribution on your returns the following year.

All active and retired firefighters can participate!  Join us to help "Fill The Boot" for MDA Sunday April 24, and Monday April 25!  We need all Marin firefighters to help us help local families fighting neuromuscular disease! Spread the word to your friends and family - they can drop a donation into our boots at any one of our other roadside locations.  We need your help to break our record and help more families than ever in 2016!

LOCATIONS & DATES

Sunday April 24th 
Tiburon (Main St. at Tiburon Blvd.) 9am-3pm
Sausalito (Bridgeway at Princess) 9am-3pm
Novato (Rowland Blvd. at Rowland Way & Vintage Way) 10am-3pm

To all members of Marin Professional Firefighters, L1775 - your children may be eligible for the scholarship, below.  Good luck!

BACKGROUND:

Marin County Fire Department Engineer Don Keylon retired March 28, 2016, and will begin a cross County bike ride May 3 to raise awareness of homelessness in Sonoma County.  Local 1775 congratulates Don on his retirement, and sends our support on his cross country trek.

The Code Blue team will ride their bicycles across the United States on a 4,300 mile adventure to help increase awareness of homelessness and the problems people face during harsh winter weather. They will support the funding, purchase, and distribution of weather-related supplies while helping to secure critical resources for Sonoma's homeless.

Tiburon & Sausalito will be Sunday April 24th (opening day on the bay) from 9am-3pm.  The Hub, San Rafael, and Novato are tentatively set for Monday April 25th, 8am to 1pm.  Please help us make 2016 the most succesful year yet!  More information to follow in the coming week!

Local 1775 MDA Coordinator
Firefighter Engineer Dennis Rutkowski
Larkspur Fire Department
B-Shift Sta. 15
Cell: 707-483-7322

AGENCY COORDINATORS:
MARIN PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS L1775
Bob Briare: president@iaff1775.org

NOVATO FIRE
Bailey Pontius:

MARINWOOD FIRE
Sean Day: sday@marinwood.org

SAN RAFAEL FIRE
Anthony Alviso: Anthony.Alviso@ci.san-rafael.ca.us
Angel Landaverde: Angel.Landaverde@cityofsanrafael.org

LARKSPUR FIRE
Dennis Rutkowski: drutkowski@larkspurfire.net
Cell: 707-483-7322
B-Shift Station 15

ROSS VALLEY FIRE
Rick Rosecrans: rrosecrans@rossvalleyfire.org
Justin Hanson: jshanson@rossvalleyfire.org

MILL VALLEY FIRE
Steve Morlock: smorlock@cityofmillvalley.org
415-389-4130

CORTE MADERA FIRE
Erik VanRenselaar: esvanr@yahoo.com

KENTFIELD FIRE
Dan Trimble: dtrimble@kentfieldfire.org

TIBURON FIRE
Sloane Valentino: svalentino@tiburonfire.org

MARIN COUNTY FIRE
Mark Burbank: burbank_mark@yahoo.com

SOUTHERN MARIN FIRE
Mike Coleman: mcoleman@smfd.org
Travis Fox: tfox@smfd.org

Congratulations on the recent retirement of these members of Local 1775!  Your service is appreciated, and your accomplishments will not be forgotten.  Happy fishing.

• Dave Shubin (San Rafael Fire Department)
• Brett Burger (Southern Marin Fire District)
• Mike Giannini (Marin County Fire Department)
• Paul Hager (Corte Madera Fire Department)
• Dave Lambert (Corte Madera Fire Department)
• Mark Glenn (Mill Valleyl Fire Department)
• Dan Appleton (San Rafael Fire Department)
• Jim Hanson (Ross Valley Fire Department)

Corte Madera Firefighters will host a celebration of remembrance for John Childress, Friday February 5, 2016 at 5PM at Corte Madera Recreation Center. Come rememebr John and his unique character - potluck, BYOB, and “Childress Specialties” will be provided (Snicker’s bars, RC Cola, M&G Burgers).  Contact Dan Reese for info.  Please pass this on to anyone who knew John.

John retired in 2008, and passed away suddenly in late 2015.

Safety Stand Down on Important Issues in the Fire Service

The IAFF is urging affiliates and members to hold a safety stand down on Monday, January 18, 2016 by tuning into a live webcast of workshops held during the Affiliate Leadership Training Summit (ALTS). 

Brothers and Sisters,

With the New Year and the first wave of presidential primaries and caucuses rapidly approaching, I wanted to take a moment to make sure we are all on the same page in this year’s presidential primary season.

When: Monday, December 14, 2015

Where: HopMonk Tavern, 224 Vintage Way, Novato

Blood donations are traditionally low during the holiday season as a result of challenging weather, the busy holiday season and the impact of flu season. Your support during winter months is crucial in making sure blood is available for local patients in need.

When you donate at the blood drive below you will receive enough 
Hero Reward Points to redeem a $25 gift card!

On behalf of the San Rafael Fire Foundation Board of Directors, we would like to invite you all to our 1st annual CRAB FEED, being held on Saturday, December 19th, at the B Street Community Center.

Fill a VIP table with friends and family!

Order Greeting Cards Online or Through the IAFF Frontline App! 

In today's digital age, holiday cards may seem antiquated, but sending greeting cards is a great way to say thank you to local elected leaders or anyone with whom you have an ongoing relationship - or as a means of staying on the radar of someone with whom you want to build a rapport. Plus, your message will never be deleted by mistake or wind up in the spam filter.

Local 1775 congratulates Jim Hanson, Ross Valley Fire Department, and Roger Sprehn, Corte Madera Fire Department on their retirement.  You've earned it, and we'll be here to protect it!

We also welcome several new members to our profession.  From San Rafael Fire Department, Trevor Mollenkpf, William Berkey, Kristen Miller, Francisco Pinell, Jacob Santus.  From Marinwood Fire Department, Sean Day.  Your brothers and sisters in the IAFF will be proud to pass on our collective knowledge and serve alongside you.  Always act professionally both on and off duty, be true to the communities you serve, and be safe (but don't forget to pre-designate a physician, because no matter how safe you are, odds are you will be injured at some point during your career...).

WILLIAM MARSH, SAN RAFAEL FIRE DEPARTMENT

Died in the Line of Duty: 1/26/1980

 To: Local 1775 Members

Re: Leasing a vineyard home

Local 1775 regrets to inform our members and extended family of the passing of our brother and friend John Childress.  John pased away of natural causes at California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco.

John served Corte Madera Fire Department from 8/26/85-10/17/08 as a Firefigher, Paramedic, Captain, and Battalion Chief.

After an extensive interview process, Marin Professional Firefighters, IAFF Local 1775, has identified a bipartisan list of candidates it believes would be the strongest firefighter choices for statewide office in this November's Election.  As a local 1775 member, we ask that you consider these candidates, and forward this list to friends and families in Marin, taking the time to explain that these candidates and issues are important to the livelihood of firefighters and public safety.

Novato Fire Protection District Board of Directors (4 Year Term)

James Galli (Incumbent)
LJ Silverman (Incumbent)
Steve Metcho

The Northbay Guns N Hoses Hockey Club was formed in 2012 by a group of public safety professionals from the fields of Law Enforcement, EMS, and Firefighting. The common bond was that these men and women wanted to help others through their passion for the sport of hockey.

In the past four years, we have helped to raise and distribute over $50,000 through our annual charity hockey games and a special event last spring with the Oakland Firefighters. Our original intent was to assist a local member of the public safety community who was impacted by an unexpected medical issue. However, we understand that we must adapt to those who need help, and this time it is the people in the community that we serve.

HELP CAL FIRE LOCAL 2881 MEMBERS WHOSE HOMES 
WERE DESTROYED BY RECENT WILDFIRES 

Text DISASTER to 50555* to make a $10 donation. 

California Professional Firefighters and the California Fire Foundation maintain the Daniel A. Terry Scholarship program to ensure that children of firefighters, who have fallen in the line of duty, receive the support they need to achieve their dreams.  Local 1775 is proud to learn that Kerstin Rucker, daughter of fallen Novato firefighter Steve Rucker is a recipient of the 2015 award.

In 2003, Disney character Goofy hugs Kerstin Rucker during the holiday lighting ceremony at Disneyland on November 25, 2003 in Anaheim, California. The family of fallen Engineer Steven Rucker of the Novato Fire Protection District officially participated in the lighting ceremony for 'Light Up the Disneyland Resort for the Holidays.'

Help Ross Valley Fire and Local 1775 celebrate the career of Jim Hanson! Attached is the flyer with all the information needed to be part of this event.  As a shortcut, you can use the link provided to purchase tickets online.  Also if you see any of the flyers hanging around the station just scan the QR Code and it will bring you the ticket site.  You can still pay with a check if necessary (info on flyer).

October 24, 2015 at the Fairfax Pavillion.   Cocktails at 5PM, dinner at 7.

LANSING — A GoFundMe site benefiting the family of fallen firefighter Dennis Rodeman has been created by city of Lansing officials, firefighters and a local firefighters union.  Rodeman was struck and killed by a truck Wednesday during a Fill the Boot effort in south Lansing.  Local 1775's executive passed a motion to send $1000 to firefighter Rodeman's family, and asks our members to consider making a small donation through the Local 421 "Gofundme" site.

The online donations site was established by the City of Lansing, the Lansing Fire Department and the International Associated of Fire Fighters Local 421. All proceeds go directly to Rodeman's family. Rodeman was struck by a pickup Wednesday while he was collecting donations for the Fill the Boot campaign for the Muscular Dystophy Association on Cedar Street in south Lansing, and later died. Police said they believe the driver intentionally hit Rodeman, and a suspect was charged Thursday with murder and other charges.

Today’s professional fire fighters are trained to respond to all kinds of emergencies – a big difference from their predecessors 25 years ago.  

Emergency medical response, building collapse/search and rescue, high angle rescue, hazardous materials incidents, automobile accidents, swift water rescue, wildland fire fighting, infectious disease cases, domestic terrorism, weapons of mass destruction, and active shooter incidents are many of the duties performed by fire fighters. And yes, they still fight fires – in 2013, more than 1 million fires were reported – with lives saved in the process.

Hello All,
Please see the following message from MDA, contact them directly if you or anyone would like to help out!
Thanks,
Dennis Rutkoswski, Larkspur Fire - Local 1775 MDA Representative

***UNIQUE FILL THE BOOT OPPORTUNITY***

When:  

Friday September 4th
Shift 1: 5:20 pm-7:05 pm
Shift 2: 7:05 pm- top of 3rd Inning
&
Saturday September 5th
Shift 1: 3:50 pm – 6:05 pm
Shift 2: 6:05 pm – Top of 3rd inning

What: Fill the Boot at The Oakland Coliseum: The MDA and the Oakland Athletics are teaming up to put on an awesome two day event to help Bay Area families with muscle disease.

FREE FOR ALL L-1775 MEMBERS 

PANCAKES & POLITICS!

Local 1775 thanks John Grey for 40 years as Local 1775’s attorney!  John’s first meeting was July 19, 1975.  John is an active member of the IAFF, after being granted special disposition by the IAFF in the 1970s while serving as an attorney and union organizer for Local 1775.

The Executive Board adopted Resolution 2015-1 unanimously at the July 9th meeting, “Recognition of John Grey IAFF Local 1775 Labor Attorney.”  John was also presented with an IAFF pin, a union Executive Board polo, a framed original copy of the resolution (read below), a bronze inscribed trumpet, and framed patch collection showing the 11 patches of all local 1775 represented agencies.  John will throw out the first pitch at the July 24 San Rafael Pacifics game - don't miss out on the opportunity to thank John over a free ballgame, concert, and dinner on the field with your fellow union members - click here to RSVP for Firefighter Appreciation Night at San Rafael Pacifics!

“We will never forget.”

Steven Rucker perished in the Line of Duty October 29, 2003 while battling the Cedar Fire. Since 2004 the Steven Rucker Memorial Golf Tournament has raised over $250,000. These funds have been used by the Novato Fire Foundation to support the Fire Squirts camp for kids, the Steven Rucker Scholarships, the Automated Defibrillator program, and other Foundation sponsored events.

FREE BALLGAME AND DINNER!  Join us for Local 1775's 2nd Annual Dinner, Concert, Ballgame July 24, 2015!

Attorney John Grey will throw out the first pitch, with the game dedicated in his honor for 40 years of service to Local 1775.

San Rafael Pacifics Local 1775 Firefighter Appreciation Night

Local 1775 has taken an active role in responding to recent attacks on public employees in Marin, responding to a misguided Civil Grand Jury, relentless anti worker campaigns by Citizens For Sustainable Pension Plans, and and now suggestions that local agencies adopt so called "C.O.I.N." (Civic Openness in Negotiations) ordinances to dismantle your ability to collectively bargain for improved wages and working conditions.

Marin Professional Firefighters has delivered correspondence to the governing bodies listed in the Marin Civil Grand Jury Reports “The Need for Labor Transparency” (June 4, 2015) and “The Need for Labor Transparency – Part II” (June 17, 2015).

2nd Annual Dinner, Concert, Ballgame July 24, 2015, Hosted By Your Union!

San Rafael Pacifics Local 1775 Firefighter Appreciation Night

Click here to RSVP!

Active Local 1775 members, retirees, and your families are invited to the San Rafael Pacifics vs Sonoma Stompers game Friday, July 24.  Firefighter appreciation night, hosted by local 1775, will include tickets, a live concert by IrieFuse, plus a pre-game dinner and drinks on the field catered by Bogie's prior to the game. Dinner and music is at 5:15, with a 7:05 game start.

The Marin County Public Safety Officers, consisting of all Sheriff Deputies, Police Officers and Firefighters present the 19th annual Widows and Orphans Golf fundraiser.

The golf tournament is being held Friday, June 26, 2015 at San Geronimo Golf Club located in San Geronimo. There will be a 11:30 AM Shotgun start with registration beginning at 9:30 AM. The cost includes eighteen holes of golf with cart, tee prizes, barbecue lunch (beginning at 10:00 AM.), refreshments, a charity raffle, auction, banquet, and awards ceremony.

Please support North Bay Guns and Hoses by planning to attend the charity L1775 Sponsored Charity Hockey Game May 9!  Monday's newsletter incorrectly stated the game was April 22 (the practice session and KTVU piece is tonight, April 22).

Local 1775 Members - please sign this petition and encourage your family and friends to connect the dots between your service as a firefighter (and public employee), and the importance of supporting ALL public employees in Marin.

Marin County public employees serve our community every day and deserve our support. These dedicated men and women run our libraries, protect public health, make sure our food and water is safe, manage our parks and run programs that enrich our minds and bodies. Sign our petition to support Marin County employees.

The Marin County Public Safety Officer’s Association is an organization made up of active full-time employees of any fire agency, police agency or Sheriff’s Office in the County of Marin. As part of its mission, it is seeking to award financial scholarships to the children or grand children of its members who are high school seniors headed for college or trade school. The successful award winners will need to have demonstrated a high degree of commitment to his or her community, to personal honesty and integrity, to learning, and to living life to the fullest. Financial need is not a requirement.

AWARDS: Five (5) $2,000.00 scholarships

Fill the Boot is almost here, if you haven't signed up to help out there is still time to do so!  Through our efforts filling the boot last year Local 1775 raised over $42,000 to help fight Muscle Disease, this year our goal is $50,000!  Everyone who signs up to help make a difference will receive a free MDA/ IAFF t-shirt, additionally snacks, lunch, & beverages will be provided throughout the day.  To sign-up please send me the location and time you can help along with your t-shirt size.  If you wish you can also help by making a personal donation online that will go towards our 2015 goal!  Please see below for more information!

Download the Flyer

Esteemed Colleagues,

My name is Thomas Moran and I am a Firefighter at Southern Marin Fire Protection District, and a member of IAFF Local 1775 Marin Professional Firefighters.  I am the co-founder of the Northbay Guns N Hoses Hockey Club, where our mission is to provide financial help to a local member of our public safety community.  We accomplish this by fielding a team of firefighters from Local 1775 (Marin), Local 1415 (Petaluma), and Local 1401 (Santa Rosa) to play a local police team in an annual September 11th charity hockey game.  Through ticket, raffle, and concession sales we have raised over $20,000 in the past three years.

The entire public-sector labor group at Carroll Burdick & McDonough LLP split off on its own last week to start a new firm with offices in Sacramento and San Francisco.

Altogether, eight lawyers left the San Francisco-based firm March 30 for Messing Adam & Jasmine LLP. Five work in the same offices they used to on Ninth Street Sacramento; three work in a new office on California Street in San Francisco. 

The San Rafael Firefighters Association Presents Retirement Honors For:

• Engineer Rick Brown
• Firefighter/Paramedic Steve "K."
• Captain Mike Morgenlaender

This will be a fun luncheon and a lot of laughs!!!

ALL LOCAL 1775 MEMBERS ARE WELCOME - ACTIVE AND RETIRED!

Local 1775 will provide a continental breakfast to all members who RSVP to attend this General Membership meeting!  Please plan to attend to meet members from other fire departments, learn about your union's activities, and exchange ideas.  An agenda will follow in early March.

RSVP online, today!

Local 1775 leaders attended the IAFF Legislative Conference in Washington DC this week.  Attending are President Robert Briare (SOM), Vice President Jogn Bagala (MRW), and Politcal Director Ken Martin (SNR).

Read more about the 2015 IAFF Legislative Conference here...

The study evaluated 20,000 firefighters from three major cities over nearly 60 years and the amount of time spent on the fireground

A recent report by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health examined the relationship between firefighting and the chances of cancer exposure. The results add to the body of evidence linking firefighting and cancer.The study comprised of almost 20,000 career firefighters with over 1,300 cancer-related deaths and 2,600 cancer incidence cases.

It is widely accepted that firefighters are potentially exposed to human carcinogens, but the risk of cancer is still poorly understood in the fire service, the report said. The study is among the largest assembled and is the first with adequate statistics for detailed examinations of exposure-response characteristics.

Local 1775 Members can now update their memebrship records online.  Please keep your IAFF memebr records up to date to ensure your rights and benefits information goes to the correct address!

Members may log on at members.iaff1775.org to update their address, phone numbers, and other information such as date of hire, date of retirement, paramedic status, pre-designated physician forms, and more.  Please update Local 1775, and do NOT update your records at the IAFF (WWW.IAFF.ORG) directly.  All updates entered on our website will be transferred to the IAFF headquarters automatically (but not vice versa).  You only need to make address and contact info changes once - on the Marin Professional Firefighter's memebr website.

On February 25th, Wednesday night, the North Bay Labor Council (NBLC) held election for Executive Board Member (5 openings).  The election was held at the Plumbers Hall in Santa Rosa. The NBLC membership is represented by Operating engineers, Labor, Electrical workers, sheet metal, Grocery clerks, Firefighters etc...  Marin Professional Firefighters IAFF Local 1775 are members by means of our affiliation of the IAFF and AFL-CIO.

The Marin Professional Firefighters delegates attending the election night meeting were President Bob Briare, Jeff Allen (Retired SOM), Mark Burbank (MRN); newly sworn in representatives, Treasurer Jason Hatfield (SNR)SNR and Mike Tribolet (Shop Steward, MRN).

Marin Professional Firefighters, IAFF Local 1775

General Membership Meeting

Did you know that your membership (active, or retired) in the IAFF provides a number of benefits that you may not be taking advantage of?  Local 1775 polled a handful of members and found that many were not taking care of the 15% discount on AT&T wireless plans and services - for a family of four phones and data, this discount is worth more than the cost of your monthly union dues!  Check out some of the savings, below!

Active and retired IAFF members are automatically eligible for these "Union Plus" negotiated benefits and discounts.

Benefits include:

Local 1775 congatulates the following members on their retirement in the past year.  These members represent more than 500 years (!) of colective service and knowledge, and their contribution to the fire servcie and public safety in Marin will continue with the hundreds of current members whom they've helped train and mentor.

• Jeff Buscher (SNR)
• Paul Crimmins (SNR)
• Jim Krogman (MRN)
• Dennis Linney (MRN)
• Darren M. Lovecchio (SNR)
• Jim Lynch (MRN)
• Tim Thompson (MRN)
• Jeff Davidson (MLV)
• Jeff Allen (SOM)
• James Irving (SOM)
• Gary Claeys (LRK)
• Jon Gergus (SOM)
• Sal Martinovich (MLV)
• Chris Wikeen (NOV)
• Clinton Mason (MLV)
• Brian McCarthy (RVY)

The following new members were hired in the past year.  Welcome to Marin Professional Firefighters, IAFF Lcoal 1775!

• Jonathan Richardson (MRN)
• Jason Zanoni (NOV)
• Kyle Marshall (NOV)
• Kirk Lear (NOV)
• Matthew Chandra (SNR)
• Trina Vadon (SNR)
• Zach Sweeney (MLV)
• Andrew Marty (KNT)
• Jon Butler (MLV)
• Ryan Hamilton (NOV)
• Ricky Godoy (NOV)
• Mark Fitzgerald (TIB)
• Manuel Avila (MLV)
• Chris Dittmann (SOM)
• Adam Monte (SOM)
• Ryan Meirer (SOM)
• Robert Grady (SOM)
• Peter Gundolff (SOM)
• Chris Tubbs (SOM)
• Bryan Galli (RVY)
• Scott Poppe (RVY)

Alumni and Retirees

The election for Vice President of the Marin Professional Firefighters IAFF Local 1775 has concluded.

Don Stasiowski, Election Committee Chair has notified me that the Election Committee has counted and confirmed the final results of the voting for the position of Vice President.

Dear IAFF L-1775 Member,

I have been informed that the California Nurses Association has called for a 48 hour work stoppage at the Kaiser Foundation Hospital. This will begin at 7:00 AM November 11, 2014 and conclude at 6:59 AM November 13, 2014. Some of our members have contacted L-1775 Executive Officers inquiring about the work stoppage.

AN ELECTION FOR THE OFFICE OF LOCAL 1775 VICE PRESIDENT WILL BE HELD ON THE FOLLOWING DAYS:

• TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2014
• THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2014
• SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2014

VOTING LOCATIONS: MILL VALLEY STATION 7, LARKSPUR STATION 16, NOVATO STATION 61:

RSVP: Please RSVP to Shop Steward John Bagala (MRW) at 415-827-5576 before December 1st, 2014 via call or text or email at smkshwn58@aol.com as soon as possible. Thank you.  

MANDATORY FOR SHOP STEWARDS AND ASSOCIATION OFFICERS!

Download and distribute the flyer.

Where: Embassy Suites - San Rafael

ATTENTION LOCAL 1775 MEMBERS

AN ELECTION FOR THE OFFICE OF LOCAL 1775 VICE PRESIDENT WILL BE HELD ON THE FOLLOWING DAYS:

Dear IAFF Local 1775 members,

I want to thank all of our members and Fire Chiefs for your support and participation in the 4th annual Marin Professional Firefighters, 2014 October Breast Cancer Awareness campaign. Working with the IAFF in conjunction with the Susan G. Komen organization is a great opportunity to serve the public and provide Breast Cancer Awareness during October.

Celebrating:

Ballot Recommendations for Legislative, Constitutional Offices and Statewide Ballot Measures

After an extensive interview process, California Professional Firefighters has identified a bipartisan list of candidates it believes would be the strongest firefighter choices for statewide office in this November's General Election.

The CPF endorsements for the 2014 election were the product of weeks of interviews with dozens of candidates from both sides of the political aisle.

IAFF Local 1775 Union Educational Seminar

Where: Embassy Suites - San Rafael

When: Wednesday, December 10th, 2014.  0800-1600 hrs. (Approximate)   (“A” shift going off, “B” shift coming on)

The 2014 Ebola epidemic is the largest in history and has spread to multiple countries in West Africa. The first confirmed case in North America was recently reported in Dallas, Texas, where the 9-1-1 system was used to treat and transport the patient to the hospital. The patient has since died. The ambulance crew - all members of Dallas, TX Local 58 - have been taken off duty with pay and are under continuous medical observation at their homes.

It is highly likely that more individuals infected with Ebola will seek assistance from emergency response personnel as the disease spreads. The IAFF is urging every affiliate to conduct a "safety stand down" with their employer and review all infectious exposure policies, procedures and guidelines. You should assess your department's preparedness for responding to and caring for patients with possible symptoms of the Ebola virus and whether you have the equipment and training needed for safely responding to worst-case scenarios in potential Ebola exposures should this virus spread in the United States and Canada.

This autumn, the California Fire Foundation will continue a proud tradition of honoring California firefighters that have given their lives in the line of duty.  

The 12th Annual California Firefighters Memorial Ceremony will take place on Saturday, October 11, 2014 at the California Firefighters Memorial in Capital Park, on the grounds of the California State Capitol in Sacramento.  Many local 1775 members and leaders will be in attendance.

Posted on October 2, 2014

Many labor representatives will have heard or read media reports about the “ruling” by a federal bankruptcy judge about the City of Stockton bankruptcy plan. In particular, media reports have focused on the idea that the “ruling” permits the City to cut its pension obligations to CalPERS in order to pay greater sums to Wall Street creditors or even to withdraw from CalPERS altogether.Most of the reports—predictably—are overstated.Here are five key points to keep in mind: