Today voting ballots are beginning to arrive in everyone’s mailboxes. Voting is an incredible opportunity and solemn responsibility.
The Marin Professional Firefighters thank you for your participation in our democracy and your involvement in issues that matter. For you consideration, here is a list of our endorsed and suggested candidates for the November 3rd Presidential Election.
The COVID-19 pandemic has forced many affiliates to postpone or cancel traditional Fill the Boot events that help raise funds for critically needed services for families in need.
With these iconic Fill the Boot fundraising drives on hiatus, the IAFF and MDA are launching a new virtual Fill the Boot campaign to help affiliates continue to support MDA and the more than 250,000 people living with neuromuscular diseases across the country. The virtual Fill the Boot is also a great opportunity to highlight your local's commitment to supporting MDA and community goodwill.
May 18 – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has extended the deadline for applications for FY 2019 Staffing for SAFER grant funding to 5:00 p.m. on May 27, 2020. There is $350 million available in federal grants to add fire fighters to departments in need. Career, combination and volunteer fire departments are eligible to apply. Learn More
May 13 – The IAFF Financial Corporation is hosting a webinar Thursday, May 14 at 3:00 p.m. EDT on mortgage relief options with experts from CrossCountry Mortgage. Experts will discuss mortgage relief options, where to turn for help and how to avoid scams.
May 28 – IAFF General President Harold Schaitberger is quoted in today’s Washington Post story on the risk fire fighters and paramedics face without having the proper PPE they need during the coronavirus pandemic.
May 26 – Check out brand-new IAFF exercise guides, designed with the current environment in mind. More guides like these can be found in the Resources tab.
June 8 – The IAFF has released guidance on Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) related to COVID-19.
June 5 – We are saddened by the news that Local 22 member Eric Gore passed away from COVID-19 on June 2. Our hearts go out to his family and Local 22 brothers and sisters.
Dear 1775 members,
San Rafael Firefighters have reached impasse in our negotiations with the city and will holding a rally at the next council meeting.
Lawrence Peter Salarpi, Corte Madera Fire Department (retired) passed away at home on Friday morning, August 17th, 2018, after a long illness related to complications from heart and kidney failure. He was born July 1, 1928, in San Francisco to Americo and Lena Rugani Salarpi. He moved to Marin County in 1937, and graduated from Tamalpais High School. He managed his father's restaurant in North Beach, CA until he was drafted into the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He was stationed in Okinawa, where he managed the company mess hall. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Donna Wall Salarpi; his sons, Angelo (Kimberly) Salarpi, and Giulio Salarpi; his daughter, Gianna Salarpi Wills; 2 grandsons, Travis and Cody; and 3 granddaughters, Stefania, Cristianna and Nicola. Larry and Donna were married in Berkeley, CA in December of 1958. They moved to Corte Madera in 1961 and started their family. Larry served as a volunteer firefighter for the Town of Corte Madera until he was hired as a full-time firefighter, fulfilling his lifelong dream. He retired in 1988. Larry enjoyed the outdoors and loved camping, fishing and boating. He served as scoutmaster for 40 years and was the rifle range master for the BSA Camp Marin Sierra in the summers. Larry and his wife volunteered in the Oakland Temple for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS). He was also the physical facilities director for the LDS chapel in Terra Linda for many years. Larry was a faithful, loving husband and father. He served honorably in all his professional capacities and church callings. All those who knew him loved Larry and he will be greatly missed.
Published in Marin Independent Journal on Aug. 29, 2018
Dear Local 1775 Member,
After the media coverage of the recent Supreme Court case of Janus v. AFSCME, I felt it appropriate to write to all of the members of Local 1775. Mr. Janus, while accepting the negotiated benefits, which included wages, health benefits, retirement benefits and good working conditions, decided he did not want to pay his fair share. He then challenged the California law which allowed his Union to collect a fair share for negotiating on his behalf. Unfortunately, the Supreme Court sided with Mr. Janus.
It's been a busy summer for Local 1775. Whether it was our 50th Anniversary celebration, Marinwood's kitchen, the SF Giants Firefighter Appreciation Game, the Janus Decision, SRFD's impasse, FLSA, or our continued efforts to assist IAFF members affected by the North Bay Fires - all during the busiest start to a fire season in California in the last 20 years - Marin Firefighters are accomplishing more than ever before.
We are pleased to announce that Body Scan International (BSI) will be bringing their Mobile Telemedicine Van to Napa City Firefighters this September.
Since 1997, BSI has performed over 150,000 examinations, and their program combines thousands of dollars’ worth of medical imaging with a full physician consultation and review. They confidentially screen for heart/cardiovascular diseases, lower back and neck pathologies, over 20 different types of cancer, chronic lung disease, and many other health concerns.
Your Body Scan will take place onboard the BSI Mobile Telemedicine Van. This portion of your visit will last approximately one hour
Your examination will include a comprehensive physician consultation with a BoardCertified Radiologist, who will review the imagery of your scan with you and provide you with complete, confidential results. This portion of your visit will typically last 45 - 60 minutes. The consultation will take place on a subsequent day, and can be performed on a computer, tablet or smartphone. You will also be provided with a detailed medical report of your findings.
BSI is extending the reduced rate of $1140 per examination to Napa City Firefighters and their adult family members (age 25 and over)
Healthcare Flexible Spending Accounts can be utilized to cover this expense To schedule your appointment, please contact BSI Directly at (877) 274-5577. If you have any questions, contact BSI Director of Patient Services Bill Penzo at (949) 394-8796, or email him: manager@healthview.com September 17 - 21, 2018 NAPA CITY FIREFIGHTERS LOCAL 3124 MEDICAL BODY SCAN PROGRAM BODY SCAN INTERNATIONAL 877-BSI-5577 www.bodyscaninternational.com
Saturday September 8th several Marin Firefighters will be participating in the SF Stair Climb, raising money for the National First Responders Fund by climbing 52 floors at 555 California Street in SF. The charity was started by some local First Responders and its mission is to bring awareness to and support for First Responders dealing with Post Traumatic Stress. They help to connect people with programs and provide financial assistance when insurance and/or workers comp doesn't cover the expense.
See the links to the charity home page and our fundraising page below - your donations help!
Each September, the International Association of Fire Fighters conducts a solemn ceremonial service at the Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial and Wall of Honor, to honor the ultimate sacrifice made by professional union Fire Fighters and Paramedics who have given their lives in the line of duty during the previous year, and in some cases retroactive legacy LODD’s as well.
It will be my distinct honor to represent the members of the 10th District at the 2018 Memorial Service. On Saturday, September 15th, the following members from the 10th District will be honored in Colorado Springs at the IAFF Fallen Firefighter Memorial:
Fire and Ice Cream is October 7, 2018 at Lappert's Ice Cream in Sausalito. This event is part of our October Breast Cancer Awareness in which we raise donations for Zero Breast Cancer located in Marin.
Attached is the Fire and Ice Cream flyer. Please share with your members and post in stations.
Community Services Awards program honors contributions through Parks and Rec department
On Feb. 9 the Town of Windsor Parks and Recreation Department participated in the annual Community Services Awards program sponsored by the California Park and Recreation Society, district 1.
Marin Country Firefighters are organizing a trip to Honduras to train and provide emergency equipment for multiple fire departments in Honduras. The Firefighters Without Boarders California team is planning to deploy in early April 2019 and will kick-off the week with a series of training courses for the local Honduras firefighters. The courses will focus on basic firefighting and EMS skills, emergency response training, rope rescue techniques and wildland firefighting tactics. Training will be hosted by local Marin County Firefighters who will provide much needed equipment to these under-served departments.
We are asking for your help to raise funds for this trip as there is no current funding allocated by any department. We are a group of local firefighters who want to support and give back to those communities who do not have the same resources and access to training that we do. We're hoping to raise a total of $10,000 to go towards training education, equipment, travel logistics, and housing during our stay. We have personally seen the amazing results produced by previous trips to Guatemala and Peru funded by donations and money from our own pockets. We are hoping to bring and exceed previous program success in Honduras this year.
Dear Local 1775 Member,
Enclosed please find the list of doctors we recommend to take on the predesignation aspect of the workers' compensation system.
Dear Novato Fire Foundation Supporter:
I am the Tournament Chair of the 16th annual Steven Rucker Memorial Golf Tournament. This event is held to honor Steven Rucker, a Novato firefighter who lost his life in the line of duty on October 29, 2003, when Novato Fire Engine Company 6162 was overrun by fire while defending a home in rural San Diego County. The Cedar Fire, burning under a Santa Ana wind condition, eventually consumed 280,278 acres, and destroyed 2,820 structures. Steve Rucker was a man that gave his own life, facing a horrific fire storm, standing his ground against flames of unimaginable fury, battling nature and his own exhaustion to save lives, and property.
It is with a heavy heart that we pass along the death of Retired Fire Captain John Griffin ("John's fine") of Marin County Fire Department. John died at Marin General after a yearlong illness earlier this week.
John's funeral services will be this Friday, 8/30/19, at 11am. The funeral will be at Cornerstone Community Church 626 Drake Avenue in Marin City, CA. Bishop Johnathan Logan is the pastor.
Marin Professional Firefighters mourns the passing of retired Marinwood Fire Chief Jay Neuhaus. Please join us at the Memorial Service and Celebration of Life for Chief Neuhaus, Sunday, October 6th, 2019 at 1500 Hrs at the Marinwood Community Center.
Dear Local 1775 Executive Board, Shop Stewards, Members and John Grey & Gregg Adam,
I have decided to retire prior to entering the final year of my current term as Local 1775 President. My last day will be December 31st. My commitments and priorities have changed to the point where I believe the membership will be better served with Vice President Bagala completing my term during the upcoming year.
Dear Valued CalPERS member:
I know that many of you are aware of widespread community disruption, event cancellations, and school closures due to COVID-19, and it is only natural that you may have questions about how the disruptions may impact your CalPERS health care coverage. I wanted to update you on actions we are taking to ensure you receive the highest quality health care during these challenging times.
Marin Professional Firefighters has published an online COVID-19 resource for Marin's 395 IAFF Members/Professional Firefighters and EMS personnel. We're working to keep it updated hourly. See https://members.iaff1775.org/covid-19 if you're an IAFF Member in Marin.
Printable PDF: Interim Guidance for EMS
The IAFF addresses shortage of PPE on Fox News on March 18, 2020.
First responders face high risk as they brace for outbreak. What are they doing to protect themselves from exposure? International Association of Firefighters member Jim Brinkley speaks out. Watch here...
See the IAFF self-screening guidelines for posting in every fire station. Review this with your shift.
I thought I’d pass along a few thoughts about how the outbreak is affecting the men and women of the Marin Professional Firefighters, IAFF Local 1775, who are doing everything they can to help the communities during this crisis.
We have 417 members who respond from 35 fire stations protecting the residents, workers, and visitors in Marin. They are split up into three shifts (A-B-C) and work around the clock 24/7/365. Calls for service are increasing and both the public and the responders are feeling the pressure of dealing with the Covid-19 virus and the Shelter in Place orders.
We’re working with all levels of government to ensure a unified approach to the coronavirus response here in the North Bay and that needs are being met.
We also want to make sure you have the latest, most accurate information needed to protect yourself, your family and our community.
Excerpted from http://www.cpf.org/go/cpf/health-and-safety/wildland-firefighter-safety/properly-refusing-risk/
Accepting risk is part of the job of being a firefighter. But no employer has the right to force you to take an unacceptable risk, particularly if there are safe alternatives for completing the assignment.
As coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and exposures continue to grow, we want to make sure you have the latest guidance, best practices and information to protect your health and safety and the public's safety as you remain on the frontlines of this pandemic.
The information below is also available on our coronavirus resource online. This site is constantly updated so check back frequently.
Two Milpitas firefighters have tested positive for COVID-19 and up to four others in the department may have been infected, according to officials.
The spouse of one of the firefighters has also tested positive for the coronavirus.
The COVID-19 outbreak implicates many different laws for employers to consider as they develop and refine their responses to rapidly changing circumstances.
The National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) is just one of these laws. Some employer obligations under the NLRA are limited to unionized workforces, but aspects of the NLRA apply to all employers. As the COVID-19 outbreak has spread across the globe many issues are arising that implicate the NLRA—including union requests for information and/or workplace health and safety inspections, union demands to bargain over new employer policies, employees refusing assignments because of fear of exposure, and questions about requiring confidentiality of certain information related to exposure.
The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA or Act) requires certain employers to provide their employees with expanded family and medical leave for specified reasons related to COVID-19.[1] The Department of Labor’s (Department) Wage and Hour Division (WHD) administers and enforces the new law’s paid leave requirements. These provisions will apply from the effective date through December 31, 2020.
Learn more about what the Act requires employers provide to all employees, and to employees that it has employed for at least 30 days...
Employers with collective bargaining agreements and union relationships know they generally cannot make unilateral changes to terms and conditions of employment. But in an unprecedented emergency like the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak we are all facing, union bargaining obligations may be relaxed, either based on the terms of a collective bargaining agreement, or under National Labor Relations Board law. As employers are forced to make ever more difficult operational decisions in the face of this emerging threat, here are some issues unionized businesses should consider when contemplating major workplace changes.
The Wage and Hour Division of the US Department of Labor provides information on common issues employers and employees face when responding to COVID-19, and its effects on wages and hours worked under the Fair Labor Standards Act and job-protected leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act.
For further information about Coronavirus, please visit the HHS’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
In San Jose, coronavirus infections have ripped through fire stations, sidelining more than one-tenth of the department.
When it comes to the front line for the coronavirus, the San Jose firefighters are experiencing what officials fear will become a common problem among first responders.
NBC Bay Area's Investigative Unit looked into what emergency plans are in place when firefighters are directly impacted by COVID-19.
Sean Kaldor got the call no organization’s leader wants to receive. As president of San Jose Fire Fighters Local 230, he was one of the first to be notified some of his members responded to a medical call involving a critical patient.
Congress completed its work on an economic stimulus package intended to address the response to and impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill includes significant resources for fire and EMS as follows:
The CDC/NIOSH has updated the Ryan White Act to include COVID-19. Hospitals are now mandated to notify emergency response employees of any exposure to a positive COVID-19 patient.
While residents of Marin are staying home amid the coronavirus pandemic, police, firefighters and paramedics continue to serve — and they’re adapting to limit the spread of COVID-19.
“Our firefighters put themselves in between the public and all kinds of risks,” said Novato fire Chief Bill Tyler, president of the Marin County Fire Chiefs Association. “A pandemic of this magnitude is something that no one wanted, but we’re seeing our first responders rising to meet the challenge.”
Marin County supervisors have allocated $2.5 million to aid in the response to the coronavirus emergency.
The Emergency Operations Center was appropriated $2 million to cover expenses such as medical surge preparations and short-term housing.
Marin County announced the first death related to the new coronavirus as more county residents in assisted living facilities and a mobile home park tested positive for COVID-19, health officials said Friday.
The man in his 70s, a passenger on the Grand Princess cruise ship during its Mexican Riviera voyage, was the county’s first reported coronavirus patient. He had been hospitalized for nearly three weeks. The man died Friday, county officials announced in a statement.
Excerpted from "The Secret List" - www.FireFighterCloseCalls.com
We regret to pass on that early this morning (Tuesday), City of Passaic Firefighter Israel "Nudge" Tolentino, 33, died of COVID-19 complications. A Firefighter since December 2018, the father of 2 young children died at 0300 Hours.
Firefighter Tolentino was originally hired for the department as a full-time EMT and continued to serve some shifts in that role as well as volunteer for the community emergency response team. Firefighter Tolentino is survived by his wife Maria, a daughter, 9, and a son, 7. Our condolences to all those affected. Rest In Peace.
IS THIS A LINE OF DUTY DEATH?
That's the question everyone has.
I spoke with NFFF Executive Director Chief Ron Siarnicki about that this morning, as the NFFF has been working to insure we get the fact. They had a meeting yesterday with the PSOB folks at DOJ and were successful in getting the answers.
The answer is YES....but you MUST have documentation (ON EVERY RUN, NOT JUST EMS-EVERY RUN!) as you will read below and in the attached.
DOCUMENTATION TOOL:
NOW IS THE TIME to use this app: https://i-psdi.org/nfors-fire-
Departments must use "blanket exposure reports" regardless of the run. Every single run. Take the lead from FDNY, following what they experienced with September 11th, Katrina, Sandy etc.
AND if you haven't listened to Curt Varone's Webinar on COVID-19 FIRE SERVICE LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS, please take time to do so:
https://info.lexipol.com/
HERE IS THE DOJ PSOB LODD INFO:
Administered by the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA), the Public Safety Officers' Benefits (PSOB) Program provides death benefits to the eligible survivors of public safety officers who are fatally injured in the line of duty, disability benefits to public safety officers catastrophically injured in the line of duty, and education benefits to the eligible spouses and children of fallen and catastrophically injured officers. BJA's PSOB Office is honored to review the more than 1,000 claims submitted each year on behalf of America's fallen and injured public safety heroes and their loved ones.
With the recent outbreak of the coronavirus, or COVID-19, America's law enforcement officers, firefighters, and other first responders face a new health risk as they continue to selflessly serve their communities. Under the current PSOB Act and its implementing regulations, conditions caused by infectious diseases, viruses, and bacteria may be found to be an injury sustained in the line of duty. To establish eligibility for a public safety officer's death or disability due to COVID-19, the PSOB Act and regulations require that the evidence show that it is more likely than not that the virus resulted from the public safety officer's exposure while performing a line of duty activity or action.
While some states have laws that presume a public safety officer's infectious disease resulted from their employment, eliminating the need for evidence of when the transmission of a disease or infection occurred, the PSOB Program has no such presumption. (The PSOB Program does cover certain conditions resulting from September 11th exposure, as coverage is based on the laws and regulations establishing the World Trade Center Health Program and its scientific and medical analysis.)
As the PSOB Office receives claims based on COVID-19 exposure, it will work closely with survivors, officers, and agencies to seek evidence of the exposure and causation through all available evidence, including incident reports and related documents. For questions regarding the PSOB Program or filing a claim, please do not hesitate to visit PSOB's online portal at www.psob.gov, or email the PSOB Director at hope.d.janke@usdoj.gov.
DOWNLOAD THE DOJ PSOB COVID-19 DOCUMENT HERE
Thanks again to the NFFF staff for their work on every Firefighters behalf-
Take Care. Be Careful Pass It On.
BillyG
The Secret List 3/31/2020-1420 Hours
www.FireFighterCloseCalls.com
12 Fraught Hours With E.M.T.s in a City Under Siege
Special units of emergency medical workers in Paterson, N.J., respond to 911 calls for suspected coronavirus, entering homes and putting themselves at risk.
Following new guidance announced by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommending that the public voluntarily wear non-medical basic cloth or fabric masks, the IAFF strongly recommends that members begin wearing surgical masks at the fire station and to consider donning a surgical mask at home around family members to help reduce the spread of COVID-19, as well as sustain a sufficient workforce to protect our communities across the United States and Canada.
Download the IAFF COVID-19 guidance on Surgical Masks: Reducing Potential Exposure.
Watch this episode of the Kitchen Table addressing many of the health and safety issues affecting you on the frontlines during this COVID-19 pandemic, including preparation and personal protective equipment (PPE), exposure documentation, quarantine and protocols and guidelines.
In these extremely stressful times as you continue to answer the call during the COVID-19 pandemic, it may help to talk to someone who understands the challenges of the job and the strain this deadly virus may be causing.
The Warriors Research Institute (WRI) - run by IAFF Behavioral Health partner Dr. Suzy Gulliver - is offering telemental health services at no cost to all IAFF members in the United States.
Following new guidance announced by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommending that the public voluntarily wear non-medical basic cloth or fabric masks, the
The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has affected every aspect of our daily lives. You continue to serve your communities on the frontlines and your families remain confined at home without their typical daily structure and activities. It’s putting a strain on everyone. Now more than ever, we need to make sure we have each other’s backs on the job and off.
These IAFF behavioral health resources can help us all do just that.
For members in recovery from an alcohol or substance use disorder, public restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic can pose unique threats and challenges to an established recovery plan.
To support continued recovery during these unprecedented times, beginning Monday, April 20, we will offer IAFF online recovery meetings for members coping with or in recovery from an alcohol or substance use problem. Meetings are hosted through an external, web-based platform. You can choose to participate with video or with audio only and do not need to provide any identifying information to participate in the meeting. We are not monitoring or tracking who participates in the meeting.
41 Year Old Indiana Firefighter dies days after contraxcting COVID-19
https://www.wlky.com/amp/article/41-year-old-indiana-firefighter-dies-days-after-contracting-covid-19/32121284
Watch this short video from IAFF General Secretary/Treasurer Ed "Edzo" Kelly.
IAFF members are on the frontline of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, but many of their spouses may be out of work due to stay-at-home orders. If this is the case for your family and you are under financial stress, below are some financial moves can you make right now:
If you are not under financial stress, consider that the long-term economic effects of this pandemic will be far-reaching. We all must prepare for the long haul by strengthening our finances in this time of uncertainty.
As the coronavirus (COVID-19) began to spread in the United States and Canada, we took early and unprecedented steps to protect the safety and well-being of our members and staff, their families and the communities in which we work and live.
The U.S. federal government has proposed three-phase guidelines for states and regions to reopen. It is important to mitigate the risk of resurgence, continue to protect those most vulnerable and make decisions that are based on the most up-to-date data during this transition.
“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.
Please help us honor Steve with your continued participation.
Watch the San Francisco Giants take on the Colorado Rockies and show your support for the California Fire Foundation at the Firefighter Appreciation Night at AT&T Park.
All Active and Retired Local 1775 members and family are invited to come out to the Pacific's Baseball game to celebrate our 50th Anniversary. Please join us with your family to celebrate this milestone in our great union's history!
DATE: June 12, 2018 - 5:30 PM pre-game celebration party, 7 PM Pacific's Game
Location: Albert's Field San Rafael
Free - pre-game dinner
Free - entry to the Pacific's Baseball game
Free - Local 1775 members and retirees will receive a Marin Professional Firefighters Local 1775 50th Anniversary T-Shirt and 50th Anniversary Challenge Coin.
The October fires in Sonoma, Napa, and Mendocino counties were one of the most significant events ever to affect the fire service in Marin and Sonoma Counties. Of the 391 Local 1775 IAFF members, more than 200 live in zip codes impacted by the fires. Local 1775 members lost homes and loved ones.
Your union, L1775, recognizes that every member made sacrifices and contributed to the effort to fight these fires, on the line or in Marin. For that, we thank you.
It is important that our members know what your union, the IAFF, through our Local 1775, CPF, and the International in Washington DC, provided to our memebrs and the community over the last month.
October 8
The Local 1775 Executive Board began communicating just before midnight October 8 when evacuation orders first went out. President Briare, Treasurer Larkin, and Political Director Ken Martin (60% of the principal officers) lived in the path of the fires and were evacuated. Marin residents, VP John Bagala and Secretary Todd Lando, recognizing that a large number of L1775 members lived in the path of the fires, began operations early on the morning of the 9th, making contact with Santa Rosa Local 1401 and generating a GIS map and list of members and families potentially affected. By Monday afternoon, they opened and organized what would become the IAFF Operations Center, 12 hours after the fires began, initially operating out of Santa Rosa fire station 10.
By Tuesday morning, the IAFF Operations Center had been organized with a command structure, with Bagala as Operations Section Chief, and volunteers from nearly every Bay Area IAFF Local arrived to provide assistance to firefighters displaced and affected by the fires. Rick Swan, IAFF Director of Wildland Fire Safety and Training, arrived early to provide direct access to Washington DC and the full resources of the IAFF. The Operations Center functioned for 2 weeks.
IAFF Operations Center
Here’s a synopsis of the services and support provided by your union through the Operations Center, managed jointly by Local 1775 and 1401 (Santa Rosa Firefighters) at the L1401 Union Hall in downtown Santa Rosa from October 9-23 (click below to read more):
On behalf of the Local 1775 Executive Board, we’d like to thank you all for your ongoing efforts and hard work on the fires in the North Bay. We know that virtually every member of Local 1775 has been affected, either living in the fire zones, on-duty actively fighting the fires, or called back to work for coverage. Of our 391 active members, 200 live in Sonoma, Napa, and Mendocino counties.
We are aware that more than 70 of our member's families have been evacuated, and that several have lost their homes. We know of numerous civilian injuries and fatalities, and are assisting members locating missing family members. We are actively working with the IAFF and CPF to assist you, and want you to know that your brothers and sisters are here for you. We have already deployed GIS mapping to determine which members are in the path of fires or evacuated, and will direct resources to those members individually as they become available.
We're all thinking about our members in Texas and Louisiana who are on the frontlines of Hurricane Harvey helping communities and their citizens knowing their own homes and possessions may be lost.
The best way you can assist your brothers and sisters is through the IAFF Disaster Relief Fund, which provides short-term, immediate financial assistance to IAFF members affected by major disasters.
Marin Professional Firefighters, IAFF Local 1775, is proud to announce the dates for our 2017 October Breast Cancer Awareness program.
Last year, from sales of Pink shirts and a generous contribution from Lappert’s Ice Cream we donated nearly $1,500 to Marin’s Zero Breast Cancer - www.zerobreastcancer.org.
Thousands of IAFF members struggle with substance abuse, post-traumatic stress and other mental health issues, but it doesn’t have to be a secret.
IAFF Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health Treatment and Recovery is exclusively for members suffering with addiction, post-traumatic stress and related issues. The Center is the only facility of its kind to address the unique needs and demands that fire fighters, paramedics and dispatchers face every day.
The 2017 IAFF Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial service will be broadcast live via streaming video on Saturday, September 16. The ceremony in Colorado Springs, Colorado, which officially begins at 11:00 a.m. (Mountain Time), will honor 196 IAFF members who died in the line of duty and were reported to the IAFF in the last year.
Visit the Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial web site for a list of names on the Wall of Honor and other information.
Marin Professional Firefighters, IAFF Local 1775 Presents the 4th Annual Fire & Ice Cream Fundraiser for Breast Cancer Awareness. Join us a Lappert's Ice Cream in Sausalito from 12-3PM October 8, 2017 to raise funds for Zero Breast Cancer Marin.
For a decade and a half, California’s fallen firefighters have been etched in history at the California Firefighters Memorial in Sacramento. Later this month, this legacy of remembrance will be recognized by California’s firefighters, family members and all who have served.
The California Firefighters Memorial 15th Anniversary Tribute will take place on Friday September 29, 2017, the evening before the annual California Firefighters Memorial Ceremony in Sacramento.
Marin Professional Firefighters, IAFF Local 1775 Presents the 4th Annual Fire & Ice Cream Fundraiser for Breast Cancer Awareness. Join us a Lappert's Ice Cream in Sausalito from 12-3PM October 8, 2017 to raise funds for Zero Breast Cancer Marin.
Thank you to all who have donated to the Memorial Scholarship Fuund and attended Chris' Memorail at Hompmunk Tavern August 18. In addition to our GoFundMe page, $743 in cash donations were collected at the event.
At the request of the Mahoney family, funds raised on the Local 1775 GoFundMe page in memory of Ross Valley Fire Department Engineer Chris Mahoney will be put into an annual scholarship for a student studying music composition as Chris did at Marlboro College in Vermont. Chris' generosity and spirit touched everyone who knew him. This scholarship in the music composition program at his alma mater, Marlboro College in Vermont, will extend Chris' legacy to a new generation who, sadly, will not share in the joy of having known him personally.
We're all thinking about our members in Texas and Louisiana who are on the frontlines of Hurricane Harvey helping communities and their citizens knowing their own homes and possessions may be lost.
The best way you can assist your brothers and sisters is through the IAFF Disaster Relief Fund, which provides short-term, immediate financial assistance to IAFF members affected by major disasters.
Please join us August 18, from 1-5PM at the HopMonk Tavern in Novato to Celebrate Chris Mahoney's remarkable, dynamic, life.
Friends, family, colleagues, and anyone who knew Chris is welcome! Food will be provided courtesy of Ross Valley Firefighters Association and Marin Professional Firefighters, with a no host bar.
Brothers and Sisters,
It is with great sadness that I notify you that Engineer/Paramedic Chris Mahoney of Ross Valley Fire Department has passed away.
Brother Chris Mahoney did not report for his normally scheduled shift at Station 20 this morning. After several attempts to contact him, members of his department including his brother, Battalion Chief Dan Mahoney, went to his home in San Francisco where they tragically found him already deceased.
Brother Chris had been a full time employee of Ross Valley Fire Department since 2005. He was 39 years of age.
Brother Chris grew up in the Ross Valley community and is survived by his mother Shirley Mahoney of Fairfax, his father Jay Mahoney of Fairfax, sister Julia of Fairfax, and brother and fellow Local 1775 member Dan Mahoney.
Local 1775 has been working closely with Ross Valley Fire Department, Ross Valley Firefighters Association, and the Marin County Fire Chiefs Association, who are all helping to address the operational, logistical, and support functions needed.
Members of the Local 1775 Peer Support team have been in place since noon today and will continue to provide behavioral support to any members as needed.
All on-duty Ross Valley firefighters were released to home this afternoon, with surrounding agencies providing station coverage. Local 1775 will do everything we can to support the Mahoney family and Ross Valley Fire Department through memorial services and beyond.
On behalf of our Union Executive Board, we extend our heartfelt thoughts and prayers to the Mahoney family and friends, and our Brothers and Sisters of the Ross Valley Fire Department.
Fraternally,
Bob Briare, President
Marin Professional Firefighters
IAFF Local 1775
“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.
Please help us honor Steve with your continued participation.
Capt. John Bagala
Marinwood Fire, 1988-2016
Deputy Chief Adam Brolan
Novato Fire Prot. District, 1986-2017
Retirees and current members - we need your help to make this year's Fill the Boot Campaign our most successful ever!
Marin's 2017 Fill the Boot campaign is dedicated to Mike Ortelle (Southern Marin Fire) who passed away earlier this year after battling ALS, one of the neuromuscular diseases that the MDA is helping to find a cure. The 2017 Fill the Boot campaign kicks off on April 14 - which would have been Brother Mike's 57th birthday. If we all pitch in this year, we can reach a goal of $57,000 - breaking our record and paying tribute to our brother.
You are employed in one of the most dangerous and physically demanding professions. To help improve the safety, performance and quality of life of uniformed personnel in the fire service, the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) and American Council on Exercise (ACE) developed the Peer Fitness Trainer (PFT) Certification.
Throughout the United States and Canada, the PFT Certification identifies fire fighters who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills required to design and implement fitness programs, improve the wellness and fitness of their departments and assist with the physical training of recruits during challenging entry tests. The role of a Peer Fitness Trainer differs from a Personal Trainer since fire service personnel have very specific needs and an extreme work environment well beyond what the average exerciser will ever face.
Whether it be at the racetrack, the rink or the ballpark, the California Fire Foundation has an event benefitting first responders near you!
In the coming months, four “Firefighter Appreciation” events are being held throughout the state, benefiting the California Fire Foundation in its mission of supporting families of fallen firefighters, firefighters and the communities they protect.
EXTREMELY IMPORTANT. ALL LOCAL 1775 MEMBERS MUST FAMILIARIZE THEMSELVES WITH THIS RULING AND TAKE STEPS TO PROTECT PERSONAL INFORMATION TODAY!
The California Supreme Court, in the March 2, 2017 ruling in City of San Jose et al. v. Superior Court of Santa Clara County, held that communication about public business on a personal account may be subject to the disclosure requirements under the California Public Records Act ("CPRA"). Any public employee's personal records can become the target of a CPRA request and, therefore, be affected by this ruling.
Retirement Party for Deputy Chief Adam Brolan and Captain Doug Fernandez
Join us to celebrate their retirement after more than 50 years of Firefighting and service with the Novato Fire District.
The 2017 Guns & Hoses Hockey benefit will be held April 22nd at 4PM at Snoopy's Home Ice in Santa Rosa. Tickets are $10, kids 5 and under are free. All proceeds will go to 4 year old Derek Briare, cousin of Brice Briare (MRN) and grandson to IAFF Local 1775 President Bob Briare (SOM, retired) who is battling leukemia.
Let's get a great turnout from our members and families! This is always a fun event, and as always, the benefits go to one of our own in need.
The IAFF Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health Treatment and Recovery is a one-of-a-kind addiction treatment facility specializing in PTSD for IAFF members – and IAFF members only (active or retired) – who are struggling with addiction, PTSD other related behavioral health challenges to receive the help they need in taking the first steps toward recovery. It is a safe haven for members to talk with other members who have faced or overcome similar challenges.
So-called right to work legislation continues to be threatened and actually introduced in legislatures, from the U.S. Congress to state capitols, to even some local jurisdictions.
On January 30, Representatives Steve King (R-IA) and Joe Wilson (R-SC) IAFF introduced the National Right to Work Act, H.R. 744, legislation that would undermine unions nationwide by permitting workers to receive the benefits of a union contract without having to pay dues.
February 1, 2017
SAN FRANCISCO FIRE FIGHTERS - Local 798- WWW.SFFDLOCAL798.0RG
Marin Professional Firefighters asks for your help for one of our own... Three-year-old Derek Briare is the grandson of our own Local President Bob Briare, and he's beginning a long battle with leukemia.
On Saturday, 11/5 Daren and Hana Briare learned that their three-year-old boy Derek has leukemia. He was flown to UCSF Medical Center for further testing and to begin immediate treatment. Derek has a one-year-old brother named Xavier. The Briare family needs financial help for Derek's care, travel expenses, food, fuel, and paying bills. Any donation is greatly appreciated. Please pray for little Derek, share this link, and donate if possible.
The members of the Northbay Guns N Hoses hockey club are humbled to announce our next benefit game will be Saturday, April 22nd at Snoopy's Home Ice in Santa Rosa,CA. The Puck drops at 4:15 PM.
This year's game will benefit a four year old Sonoma County resident named Derek Briare. Derek and his parents were given the very tough news a few months back that he has been diagnosed with leukemia. The family has a difficult time ahead of them and our goal is to help them through this challenging time in their lives.
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.
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.
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.
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
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!
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.
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.
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.
President of the United States: Hillary Clinton
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.
