Volume 25 | No. 3 Third Quarter 2017

n the pre-dawn hours on October 9th, a Berkeley Fire Department strike team rolled into Santa Rosa, called in on a mutual aid response to what they thought was a large wildland fire. As they EVOLVING arrived in their assigned staging area – a Kmart Iparking lot in northwest Santa Rosa – they knew it was much bigger: The Kmart was completely up in flames. “Are you serious?” wondered one incredulous Engine 6 firefighter. Up the road, fellow Berkeley firefighter Josh Block UNDER FIRE had already seen the worst of it. He and his brother had been forced to flee the home they shared in Santa An Ever-Expanding Disaster Risk is Rosa. “The whole cul-de-sac was up in flames in like 10 minutes,” he later marveled. “Fifty-foot flame lengths … I’ve never seen anything like it.” Transforming the California Fire Service The North Bay Firestorm that would unfold in the blistering week that followed was, by many accounts, one for the ages: 43 deaths (most ever in a single fire incident in California history), more than 8,000 structures lost, total losses estimated in the billions. More than three dozen firefighters lost their own homes in the event – many of them while they were themselves on the fire lines. For the California fire service, cataclysmic events are starting to seem like just another day at the office. In just the second half of 2017, a string of incidents – far flung and close-to-home – have tested the capa- bilities, training, stamina and courage of the state’s first responders:

JULY: A series of windblown wildland fires charred an area the size of New York City, sending tens of thousands fleeing from their homes. At the height of the fires, upwards of 10,000 firefighters were mobilized, with nearly three-quarters coming from hundreds of local agency departments.

AUGUST: Hurricanes Harvey and Irma prompted mobilization of six of California’s eight Urban Search and Rescue Task Forces. More than two hundred Cali- fornia firefighters conducted the grim response effort – one Los Angeles City crew was on its way home from Harvey when it was redirected east to Florida.

Continued on page 6

PRESIDENT’S MEMORIAL LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT PERSPECTIVE COVERAGE UPDATE REPORTS Page 3 Pages 12-13 Pages 14-15 Pages 14-21 CALIFORNIA PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS SECOND QUARTER | VOLUME 23 NO. 2 1 LETTERS TO THE PRESIDENT

Dear Lou, you have any questions, please do not hesitate to President Paulson, call Sean Elsbernd, my State Director, at (415) During my many years of 393-0760. On behalf of the IAFF Char- public service, I have vis- Please thank everyone, over and over! itable Foundation, thank ited a number of urban you to all CPF members fires and natural wildfires. Sincerely, for your recent generous My visit this weekend to Dianne Feinstein contribution of $10,000.00 Santa Rosa, however, was United States Senator to our Disaster Relief Fund. unprecedented. I have never seen such devas- These funds went directly to providing food and tation, nor have I ever seen such devastation water, generators and fans, dry clothing, chain wrought so rapidly and all encompassing. saws, tarps and re-building help, direct financial While the damage was unprecedented, what Dear Lou, assistance, vaccinations, behavioral health support was proven routine at these events, yet never and anything else required to get our members taken for granted, is the tremendous amount of On behalf of the people of what they needed in the wake of Hurricanes Har- courage and dedication to public safety demon- California, I want to sin- vey and Irma. strated by our (your) firefighters. Most especially, cerely thank you for your In addition to these critical efforts, we have been I was touched by those firefighters who raced to leadership during the lat- assisting our members touched by a string of dev- fight the fire, while knowing that their own homes est round of devastating astating occurrences across the country. The mass had been lost, and their own families could still wildfires that hit our state. shooting in Clark County, Nevada on the end of the be in danger. The commitment to the safety and Your unwavering commitment and dedication Las Vegas Strip and the wildfires currently raging the protection of their community proved para- to your team of relentless firefighters is inspiring. in northern California that have destroyed dozens mount – an unbelievable characteristic for which We are all so proud of the men and women who of our members’ homes and have affected so many I am so tremendously grateful. are putting their own lives on the line to save make your help even more important during these Enclosed, please find a $10,000 contribution to others. Their courage, bravery, and selflessness trying times. your “Go Fund a Hero” organization. I trust that will forever be remembered. Your generosity demonstrated once again that these funds will go directly to the firefighters who Thank you, Lou, for your leadership and when we are faced with adversity, we truly have have lost everything as a result of these fires in friendship. each other’s backs. Northern California. Specifically, I request that these funds be directed toward firefighters with Sincerely, Fraternally, families and children. I want to make sure that Kamala D. Harris Harold A. Schaitberger the youngest amongst us are taken care of. Should United States Senator Foundation Chairman

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Sign up or report your exposures www.peronline.org 2 THIRD QUARTER | VOLUME 25 NO. 3 CALIFORNIA PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE LOU PAULSON

HIGH STAKES IN THE YEAR AHEAD

hen looking back at decide the offices of governor, as well the events of 2017, it’s as the seven other statewide constitu- hard to imagine that No matter the outcome, you can be tional offices. the coming year could The race for governor is of particu- bring challenges that lar importance to our union, as the willW rival what we’ve seen to date. sure that California Professional victorious administration will have In only the final three months of the opportunity to shape statewide this past year, our state experienced policy for the better part of a decade. devastation at an entirely unprec- Firefighters will remain strong, Issues such as collective bargaining edented rate. In the north, the Tubbs rights, retirement security and fire- Fire, the Nun Fire and several other fighter behavioral health all subject to blazes burning in unison claimed standing against the opponents of the upcoming administration’s politi- the lives of 44 Californians and cal will, as will decisions about mutual destroyed nearly 9,000 structures in the working class and advocating aid and training resources needed to a little over a week. It was the most combat the threat of wildfires like devastating series of wildfires in Cali- those seen in the latter half of 2017. fornia history, one that was capable for our members and their In the next few months, California of leveling entire neighborhoods in Professional Firefighters will be just a matter of hours. Only a few meeting for candidates for each of the months later, disaster struck the families, both on the job and off. contested statewide constitutional Southland, with the Thomas Fire, the as part of our endorsement process. Skirball Fire and others prompting When we do, the metric by which we evacuations and disaster declara- beyond. I can also say, again with represents one of the most brazen measure these candidates will be the tions in counties from Santa Barbara relative certainty, that when they do, attacks in their ever-growing war same as it always is – who will stand down to San Diego. At the time this the men and women of the California against organized labor. Should the with us on the issues that matter most message was written, many of these fire service will stand ready to answer decision not be in labor’s favor, union to firefighters. These issues, including blazes are still burning out of control, the call. solidarity will be tested across the staffing, on-the-job safety and retire- and our members from across the The fire ground, however, won’t nation, meaning that our organizing ment security, are what are important state are working around the clock be the only place we’ll face new chal- and union education efforts will more to our members, and so too must they to defend the lives and property of lenges in the coming year. important than ever before. be important to any candidate hoping those who live in the affected areas. At some point in 2018, the United No matter the outcome, you can for our support. Sadly, incidents such as these are State’s Supreme Court will hand down be sure that California Professional While the challenges of 2018 will quickly becoming the new normal in a verdict in the matter of Janus v. Firefighters will remain strong, test our ranks, California Professional our state. AFSCME, a case that aims to undercut standing against the opponents of Firefighters has demonstrated time While fires like the one’s described union rights for firefighters and mil- the working class and advocating for and time again that, through this soli- above may have seemed unimaginable lions of other public sector workers. our members and their families, both darity, we can achieve amazing things. only a decade ago, a changing climate For years, anti-labor advocates have on the job and off. I fully believe that this next year has made it so that we can now say sought to dismantle our ability to The coming year will also be a criti- will be no exception. with relative certainty that similar organize and advocate on behalf of cal one on the political front, as the Stay safe and have a happy new incidents will take place in 2018 and our members, and this latest attempt statewide election in November will year.

CALIFORNIA PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS THIRD QUARTER | VOLUME 25 NO. 3 3 2017 FIRE SEASON From the Southland to the North Bay, the 2017 California fire season was one of the most devastating on record. When disaster struck, the men and women of the state’s fire service stood ready to answer the call.

Photo: Jeff Zimmerman

Photo: Jeff Zimmerman Photo: Jeff Zimmerman Photo: Jeff Zimmerman

Photo: Robbie Panco Photo: Robbie Panco

4 THIRD QUARTER | VOLUME 25 NO. 3 CALIFORNIA PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS SECRETARY-TREASURER'S DESK LEW STONE

CALIFORNIA A D M I N I S T R A T I O N PROFESSIONAL Executive Board Chris Patterson Political Director Victor Jimenez Press Operator Lou Paulson President Carroll Wills Communications Director Todd Archer Digital Press Operator FIREFIGHTERS Lew Stone Secretary-Treasurer James Noonan Assistant Communications Director Taylor de la Peña Digital Press Operator Tim Strack 1st District Vice President Kevin White EMS and Health & Safety Director Shakeel Ali Shipping and Delivery Clerk Chris Mahon 2nd District Vice President Pharris Treskunoff Assistant to the President Published Quarterly Bobby Weist 3rd District Vice President Rosalia Lopez Executive Assistant California Fire Foundation Jeff Del Bono 4th District Vice President Apryl Swanberg PER Coordinator Hedi Jalon Executive Director Publication Office Michael Massone 5th District Vice President Irene Chu Finance Director Christine Harms Program Coordinator California Professional Firefighters Mike Lopez 6th District Vice President Kathy Shipley Full-Charge Bookkeeper Sara Rogers Administrative Assistant 1780 Creekside Oaks Dave Gillotte 7th District Vice President Ting Ting Hui Senior Accountant Sacramento, CA 95833 Tony Gamboa 8th District Vice President Stacy Smith Receptionist California Firefighter Joint Apprenticeship Committee (916) 921-9111 Yvonne de la Peña Executive Director Web: www.cpf.org Trustees CPF Callback Association Erik Baskin Cynthia Clark Projects Coordinator Firefighter Candidate Testing Center Email: [email protected] Rick Swan Kelley Trujillo Program Director Andy Doyle Firefighters Print & Design Editor: Carroll Wills Mariena De Anda Director Firestar Studios Managing Editor: James Noonan Staff Natalie Mercado Assistant Manager Lara Popyack Manager Graphic Designer: Robbie Panco Teresa Ortiz Managing Director Cynthia Clark Promotional Products Representative Christy Bouma Governmental Advocate Jennifer Fong Administrative Assistant Cover Photo: Brett Snow Amy Howard Legislative Director Robbie Panco Senior Graphic Designer

Official publication of the California Professional Firefighters, organized October 12, 1938. Incorporated as not-for-profit May 27, 1958. Member of the International Association of Fire Fighters, AFL-CIO. All unsolicited articles, manuscripts, letters and photographs sent to California CALIFORNIAProfessional Firefighters PROFESSIONAL are sent at the owner's FIREFIGHTERS risk, and California Professional Firefighters expressly disclaims any liability or responsibility for their safe custody or return. Signed articles express the views of the authors and FIRSTnot necessarily QUARTER those of | VOLUMEthe editors of 23 California NO .1 Professional5 Firefighters. Send all correspondence and photographs to California Professional Firefighters, Publication Office, 1780 Creekside Oaks, Sacramento 95833. We reserve the right to edit submitted materials. © 2015 California Professional Firefighters. COVER STORY Photo: Robbie Panco Robbie Photo: Photo: Robbie Panco Robbie Photo: Photo: Robbie Panco

Continued from page 1 Bay Fires were deployed. Ten years ago, Cal-OES had upwards of 1,150 local mutual aid engines available for response. September: September began with the This year, about half that many are avail- largest fire in the history of the city of able. Los Angeles – the 7,500 acre LaTuna Fire. “It’s a challenge now every day to move More than 1,000 firefighters from nearly the resources where they need to be and four-dozen local agencies answered the getting them to people in the time that call to the blaze, which forced evacua- people need them,” said Kim Zagaris, Cal- tion of sections of Burbank, Glendale OES fire and rescue chief. and unincorporated Los Angeles County. While local resources ebb, the reli- ance on local agencies to support the October: At the beginning of the mutual aid system is increasing. With month, dozens of firefighters from CAL FIRE resources similarly stretched throughout Southern California found to their limits by the ever-widening fire themselves thrust into life-saving problem, local agencies wind up shoul- action under fire when the Las Vegas dering a larger and larger percentage of concert they were attending as fans was response in the wildland-urban interface. targeted by a deranged sniper. At least At the height of the Detwiler Fire, which half a dozen were wounded during the Photo: Jeff Zimmerman charred over 80,000 acres near Yosemite, shooting – some while rendering aid to nearly three-quarters of all firefighters on others – and the aftermath produced THE FIRE PROBLEM: cities in California have at least some the lines were from local agencies, either countless stories of firefighters provid- EVERYBODY’S PROBLEM territory listed by CAL FIRE as being at staffing their own department’s rig or as ing medical aid even as they dodged When the Tubbs Fire began its deadly race “High” or “Very High” fire risk. In Santa part of an OES strike team. bullets themselves. Within a week, the to the suburbs of northeast Santa Rosa, Rosa, 15 percent of land within the city “Whether it’s fire or flood or what- cascade of disasters culminated with few could have predicted the destructive limits faced high or very high risk. In San ever natural disaster happens, you’ve the week of devastation in the North path it would leave in its wake. In addi- Diego alone, that number is 43 percent. got to have local agencies willing to give Bay, a “perfect storm” of wind, weather, tion to 24 lives that single fire claimed, The fires were also yet another up resources,” said Paulson. “But with fuel and terrain. by some estimates as much as 11 percent reminder of the broader fire problem departments still downsized because of These and other incidents are only of homes in Santa Rosa were lost in the facing California, linked to punishing the recession, the resources aren’t there the latest signposts pointing to a rap- firestorm. drought, climate change and relentless to deploy or backfill those deployments idly building sea change in the extent “I never would have thought that our development in wildland areas. to protect local citizens.” of the burden borne by the California 140-person department would face some- fire service and the men and women at thing like this, but it did,” said Santa Rosa MUTUAL AID: FAMILIAR RISKS its heart. Firefighters Local 1401 President Tim A SYSTEM IN CRISIS AND DEADLY NEW THREATS “Our profession is being transformed Aboudara. Even as the fire risk expands, fewer fire Firefighter/Paramedic J.C. Monticone of before our eyes,” said CPF President Lou The North Bay Firestorm exposed the resources are available to meet the threat. South Pasadena Firefighters Local 3657 Paulson. “We’re entering a new era with vast expansion of the fire risk facing all According to Cal-OES, fewer than half was one of dozens of off-duty California new duties, new threats and a greater California residents – not just those in the of the local and state mutual aid engines firefighters and police officers saving responsibility to those we serve.” wildlands. Three out of four incorporated requested in the early hours of the North lives while dodging a deadly sniper at the

6 THIRD QUARTER | VOLUME 25 NO. 3 CALIFORNIA PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS COVER STORY

THE RISK KEEPS Highway 91 concert shooting in Las Vegas their first responders. Through CPF and this past October. For his fiancée, who its local affiliates, firefighters are working was also attending the show, the circum- to force fire management and policy-mak- stances were frighteningly familiar: Less ers to confront the threat head on: RISING than two years earlier, she had been work- ing in San Bernardino’s Inland Regional Resources: The re-authorization of Center when it was targeted in a terrorist California’s cap-and-trade law pro- Percentage of cities with % mass shooting and attempted bombing. vided an opportunity to make critical high or very high fire risk 67 In the past, firefighters were kept a investments in mutual aid and state- safe distance from the line of fire in mass wide fire response. With labor and shooting incidents. Since 9/11, however, management taking a united stand, the number and severity of mass casualty CPF and CalChiefs helped secure Percentage of cities with % events has changed how the fire service funding for CAL FIRE and a boost 1/3 or more high-risk land responds. No longer held at the perimeter, to the mutual aid budget. “The fund- 40 firefighters are now tasked to enter the ing for mutual aid is a good start, scene to render aid even as law enforce- but more is needed,” noted Paulson. ment secures the scene. “To protect California, our state and Active shooter response is just one of local response network needs to have Total population served the ever-expanding set of responsibilities the resources in place where they’re by high-risk cities Million required of California’s firefighters. Hur- needed, when they’re needed.” 25 ricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria tested the nation’s urban search and rescue Training: The California Firefighter capabilities, and California firefighters Joint Apprenticeship Committee Percentage of Los Angeles % were in the thick of the response. – co-sponsored by CPF and the Cali- City at high risk “We had almost all of the USAR task fornia State Fire Marshal – has had 27 forces in California out of state,” said its eyes on the future demands of Zagaris. “When they came back, some the profession for decades. Cal-JAC’s of the personnel had to turn around and groundbreaking Unified Response to head up to the fires.” Violent Incidents training program Percentage of San Diego % was studied and largely implemented at high risk MEETING THE CHALLENGE ahead of the 2015 San Bernardino 43 OF THE NEW FIRE SERVICE shooting. (Source: CAL FIRE) The issues raised by this transformation of the California fire service go to the Health and Wellness: If there is health and well-being of Californians and one sliver of good news to come out of the siege of disasters this past year, it is that none of the thousands 3200 of firefighters forced into action lost their lives. Still, the effects of these 3029 incidents may be seen for years, or even decades, to come: Exposures to 2800 cancer-causing chemicals and biologi- cal toxins in flood and fire response may well have lingering effects. CPF’s 2400 BUT THE RESOURCES ARE Personal Exposure Reporting system allows its members to document these hazards. Beyond the physical injuries 2000 SHRINKING are the emotional ones. Firefighter behavioral health expert Frank Lieto says agencies and local unions will be dealing with the effects of the North 1600 Bay fires “until the last person on that incident retires.” Once again, a united fire service led by CPF is helping to 1200 point the way toward awareness, treatment and a commitment to treat- ing injuries of the heart as seriously as 958 800 those of the body (see p. 10). “The men and women of our pro- fession carry more responsibility and more risk than at any time in our 400 403 memory,” said President Paulson. “Now, more than ever, the safety of 214 every Californian depends on a well- 134 0 equipped, well-trained committed fire 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 service.”

CALIFORNIA PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS THIRD QUARTER | VOLUME 25 NO. 3 7 BEHAVIORAL HEALTH HEALING OUR OWN A Call to Action on Behavioral Health

firefighter from Santa Rosa country is that firefighters are feeling Behavioral Health Task Force – created things that are passed down through finds that lives were lost isolated and overwhelmed,” said Pat in the aftermath of 2016’s ground- the generations, and it’s not always a on the block he was called Morrison, IAFF Health and Safety breaking Joint Behavioral Health good thing. A to in the early hours of a Director. “Unfortunately, some feel Conference – is comprised of nearly As a first step, the Task Force is major disaster. Another learns that that the only way to stop feeling like two dozen management and labor launching an outreach campaign the young man he was struggling to this is to take themselves out.” representatives from local, state and aimed at breaking this potentially save while dodging bullets in a Las As the role of California firefighters federal fire agencies. Its goal: Make devastating stigma. The new "Healing Vegas arena didn’t make it. A captain transforms, the risk to the behavioral emotional wellness and post-traumatic Our Own" website -- www.healin- watches as a firefighter under his health and wellness of firefighters stress injuries a health and safety pri- gourown.org -- features first-person command falls through a roof in a is also transforming. Alongside the ority in the California fire service. accounts of firefighters detailing their structure response. cancer epidemic in the fire service, experiences, and the impact it had on Every day, California firefighters behavioral health has become a their emotional health, along with come face-to-face with stresses and central health and safety issue for our BREAKING resources for those seeking help, and tragedies few can imagine. In some profession. In response, California’s THE STIGMA those who want to help others. cases, the toll of the job can push our fire service leadership – labor and For many firefighters, addressing As the campaign unfolds, local- brothers and sisters to the emotional management – is coming together behavioral health injuries means ized outreach material, toolkits and brink. Sometimes ... tragically ... they with a unified approach. moving beyond a prevalent culture updates will be available, all focused go over the brink. “We train people Leaders of four statewide fire in the profession – one that equates on firefighters themselves. “Our goal to be battle hardened, but we don’t service organizations – CPF, CalChefs, job-related emotional struggles with is to get our members to come out of do as good a job after the call say- Cal-OES and Cal-JAC -- signed on to a weakness. “When I first came up and the shadows, raise their hand to look ing ‘Hey, I’m struggling,’” said Jeff labor-management behavioral health somebody would say they were hav- for help, and access the resources they Donabedian, president of Oxnard and wellness initiative, sponsored by ing a problem with a call, we’d razz need,” said Dave Gillotte, L.A. County Firefighters Local 1684. the California Fire Service Behavioral them,” said Sacramento Metro Fire Firefighters Local 1014 president and “What we’re seeing throughout the Health Task Force (see pg. 9). The Captain Bob Bruce. “It’s one of those chair of the Task Force.

8 THIRD QUARTER | VOLUME 25 NO. 3 CALIFORNIA PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS A COMMITMENT TO FIREFIGHTER BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

Firefighters are asked to face trials that few outside the profession can imagine – from horrific disasters such as catastrophic fires and mass shootings to everyday horrors such as fatal accidents and children sometimes dying in their arms.

No matter how tough, no one is immune to the anguish that can build from a career of difficult calls. We know that roughly one-fifth of our firefighters are victims of post-traumatic stress injury. Suicide is approaching epidemic proportions. Stress-related alcohol and substance abuse is well above average. Broken marriages, panic attacks, depression and family traumas are increasingly commonplace.

As we know, our firefighters often suffer in silence, burying the wrenching emotional impact of these traumatic experiences. The fear of losing their jobs, being labeled as unfit for duty, or being seen as weak are concerns that keep many from opening up. As a profession, we have a responsibility to take a stand for our employees, our members and our communities.

On behalf of a united fire service, the California Firefighter Behavioral Health Task Force is asking management and labor to come together and pledge their commitment to addressing this issue together.

We, the undersigned, mutually agree to:

• Work together to break the stigma – the cultural and professional concerns -- that creates barriers to behavioral health for our brothers and sisters;

• Use the best resources available to us to secure services and support for our firefighter brothers and sisters to address mental and emotional injuries and their effects;

• Receive, and provide, regular communication about behavioral health issues and services and peer support available to help build understanding and best practices.

The California Firefighter Behavioral Health Task Force has committed to provide outreach and support material to aid in the important process of normalizing the issue. The Task Force is also committed to a collaborative effort to develop practices and strategies aimed at making it possible for us to effectively address these issues together.

Lou Paulson President, California Professional Firefighters Mark Hartwig President, California Fire Chiefs Association

Kim Zagaris Fire and Rescue Chief, Cal OES Yvonne de la Peña Executive Director, Cal-JAC

A COMMITMENT themselves to work toward aware- Fire chiefs and labor presidents are “Post-traumatic stress (or behav- ness, counseling and treatment of being asked to sign the statements, ioral injury) is real, and we have to TO A HEALTHIER our firefighters at risk from post- allowing them to stand up for the make sure people understand that,” FIRE SERVICE traumatic stress injury. behavioral health of all firefighters. noted Morrison, “but it is not a life Beyond outreach, the Task Force Commitment letters like the one “Bringing labor and management sentence, and it doesn’t mean you is looking for all California fire signed by all four of the state’s fire together on behavioral health mat- have to stop being a firefighter.” departments – through their labor service leaders, are being circulated ters is key … it has to happen,” said For more information, visit www. presidents and fire chiefs – to commit to all California fire departments. Donabedian. healingourown.org

CALIFORNIA PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS THIRD QUARTER | VOLUME 25 NO. 3 9 CALIFORNIA FIRE FOUNDATION

FIREFIGHTER THIS TAX APPRECIATION MONTH SEASON, CHECK A BOX TO SUPPORT A SUCCESS IN 2017 THE FOUNDATION This past September more than a dozen California businesses, across roughly 30 locations, came together to Tax season is just around the corner, “have the back” of the state’s first responders. meaning now if the perfect time to brush up on how to support the California Fire Foundation with the check of a box. Thanks to all the businesses and individuals who helped California law allows taxpayers to con- make Firefighter Appreciation month a success in 2017! tribute 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. When completing State Tax Form 540, filers can elect to donate all or some of their refund to the California Firefighters’ Memorial fund on line 406 under Voluntary Contributions. Amounts, in $1 increments, can be added to the line item, helping ensure that the Memorial can continue to honor the memory of fallen firefighters for years to come. If filers are not expecting a refund, the designated amount will be added to the amount owed when making a tax payment. All donations can be recorded as a donation to a charitable cause on future tax filings. For more information on the Tax Checkoff Program, visit www.cafirefoundation.org.

By supporting the California Fire Foundation, you can help further its mission to SUPPORT the FOUNDATION aid families of fallen firefighters, firefighters and the communities they protect.

2017 FIREFIGHTER LICENSE PLATES CHECK OFF CA Sold only to active and retired firefighters, the iconic Getting ready to file? Expecting a refund? You can donate all or California firefighter’s license plate lets you show your pride some of your tax refund back to the Foundation. When completing on cars, trucks, trailers and motorcycles. Proceeds from the your State Tax Form 540, look for the California Firefighters’ sales benefit the families of California’s fallen firefighters. BE KIND TO CALIFORNIA Memorial fund on line 406 under Voluntary Contributions. www.CheckOffCA.org PLANNED GIVING AMAZON SMILE Including the California Fire Foundation in your estate plan When you shop through Amazon Smile, a portion of the sale is will not only help you in achieve your own philanthropic and used to help support the California Fire Foundation. Switch over charitable giving goals, but it will also allow the Foundation the next time you shop and help make a difference. to continue its mission.

DONATE ONLINE FOUNDATION STORE Donate to the Foundation directly and help support the families Purchase your very own firefighter challenge coin through of fallen firefighters, firefighters and the communities they the Foundation store and support programs that aid families protect. To donate today, or to learn more about the Foundation’s of the fallen. programs, visit www.cafirefoundation.org.

10 THIRD QUARTER | VOLUME 25 NO. 3 CALIFORNIA PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS CALIFORNIA FIRE FOUNDATION

SCHOLARSHIP FALLEN FIREFIGHTER DEPARTMENT CONGRATULATIONS RECIPIENT TO THE 2017 Nicholas Bera Matthew B. Bera Sacramento City DANIEL A. TERRY Alexander Dunn William A. Dunn Los Angeles City SCHOLARSHIP Adam Harris Bret Hamilton Harris Los Angeles City RECIPIENTS Hayden Lawrence John Lawrence Orange County Jessica Magallanes Hector Magallanes Los Angeles County The California Fire Foundation is dedicated to its mission of giv- ing back to families who have lost a loved one in the line of duty. Sarah Magallanes Hector Magallanes Los Angeles County Through the Foundation's Daniel A. Terry scholarship program, children of fallen firefighters are provided financial assistance to Lauren McKnight Matthew McKnight Los Angeles City help with the cost of pursuing a higher education. These $2000 college scholarship awards enable students to Jessica Urquiza Ralph Urquiza Los Angeles City achieve their dream of a higher education despite the financial adversity that often comes with the loss of a parent. Time and Dalton VanWormer Robert VanWormer CAL FIRE again, scholarship recipients go on to successful futures and pursue careers where they are giving back to our communities. In 2017, nine deserving recipients were awarded the Daniel For more information about the Daniel A. Terry scholarship, visit www.cafirefoundation.org A. Terry Scholarship.

Congratulations to the following:

SAVE ASSISTS THOUSANDS FIREFIGHTER LICENSE PLATE AFTER NORTH BAY FIRESTORM AVAILABLE TO SURVIVING FAMILY A total of 4,000 victim assistance card sent to disaster zone MEMBERS BEGINNING JAN. 1 License plates available to survivors free of charge for first year

After the series of massive wildfires first days after arrival. Cards contin- that burned for weeks throughout Cal- ued to be activated well into December, Thanks to legislative action by California Professional Firefighters, ifornia’s Wine Country claimed more as residents impacted by the wildfires the surviving spouses and family members of fallen firefighters will soon than dozen lives and left thousands of slowly return to the area, only to find be able to remember their loved ones by way of a firefighter license plate. residents homeless, North Bay firefight- their homes and belongings destroyed. The action, which was brought about by Assembly Bill 1338 (Evan ers and the California Fire Foundation The cards, which were distributed In Low), means that, for the first time since the inception of the firefighter are helping to pick up the pieces. coordination with leadership from Santa license plate program, a survivor of an active or retired firefighter will be In the days following the initial dev- Rosa Firefighters, Local 1401, were made able to independently apply for and received their own firefighter license astation, the Foundation activated a available to impacted residents through plate. Previously, firefighter license plates were available for use only by large scale incident response through its disaster response facilities throughout firefighters, and surviving family were limited to keeping the plates as a Supplying Aid to Victims of Emergency the region. memorial keepsake, rather than for use on a vehicle. (SAVE) program, which is intended to “Our affiliates in the North Bay did “The firefighter license plate program was brought about as a way provide immediate, on-scene relief to a phenomenal job responding to this to provide funding for the construction of the California Firefighters those affected by fire or natural disaster event, both in terms of protecting lives Memorial. They have always been tied to the mission of remembering by way of $100 gift cards to cover food, and property, and in providing assis- our fallen heroes,” said Foundation Chair Lou Paulson. “It seems fitting lodging or other immediate needs. tance in the days after the disaster.” that the plates will now provide another way for survivors to remember “When major disasters like the North Paulson said. and honor their loved ones.” Bay Fire Storm occur, firefighters are While the SAVE program provides an In addition to the legislative change, survivors will also be eligible for often looking for a way to help once the important way to serve communities assistance in purchasing their newly available firefighter license plates, flames are out,” said Foundation Chair following major disasters, the program thanks to the California Fire Foundation. Lou Paulson. “Through the SAVE pro- has also provided immediate assistance Beginning in 2018, the Foundation will be paying the first-year fees gram, we’re able to provide some small to thousands of Californians in small associated with the purchase of a California Firefighter License plate, level of comfort to those who have lost scale events occurring in communities allowing surviving family members to obtain the plates free of charge. everything.” all across the state. Plate owners will be responsible for paying annual fees after the first year. In all, more than 4,000 SAVE cards To learn more about how locals can For more information about the firefighter license plate program, were sent to the scene of the fires, with become involved in the SAVE program, including the new benefits available to surviving family members, visit more than 2,500 cards activated in the visit www.cafirefoundation.org/save. www.cafirefoundation.org.

CALIFORNIA PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS THIRD QUARTER | VOLUME 25 NO. 3 11 CALIFORNIA FIREFIGHTERS MEMORIAL Memorial and 15th anniversary tribute honors California’s fallen heroes

niformed firefighters, fam- loved ones names and admire their cour- Becerra said. “Today we memorialize ily members, and dignitaries age and they will never forget what the 29 firefighters who answered the call from throughout California last true measure of devotion is,” said to keep our promise that their courage gathered on the grounds of Lou Paulson, chair of the California Fire and sacrifice will never be forgotten.” Uthe State Capitol on Saturday, September Foundation and president of California During this year’s ceremony, Dave 30, to pay tribute to those who gave their Professional Firefighters.” Yes, we will Clark, a firefighter-paramedic with the lives to protect the state and its citizens. miss them more than words can say, but Ventura County Fire Department paid This year’s ceremony, which saw the we are so proud of them for their duty, tribute to his fallen friend and fellow names of 29 fallen firefighters added to courage and sacrifice.” firefighter Ryan Osler, who was killed the memorial wall, also commemorated California Attorney General Xavier while battling the Canyon Fire in 2014, the memorial’s 15th anniversary, and Becerra was among those paying their while also honoring the hundreds of was accompanied by an evening tribute respects at the ceremony, which fea- heroes who fell before him. that honored the memory of the more tured a solemn procession of uniformed “We will never forget them or the sac- than 1,300 firefighters whose names are firefighters and the presentation of flags rifices they have made,” Clark said. “This etched upon the memorial wall. to representatives and family members monument, etched with the names of “Today and here after, the people of of the 29 honorees. the fallen is a reminder of those who California will come to this hallowed “We can never say thank you enough paid the ultimate price. It’s stand strong place. They will gaze upon these walls, to the brave men and women who give and steadfast.” they will run their fingers across your service – and their life – to keep us safe,” The evening before the ceremony, Captions: 1) Eprat voluptat. Tem fugit har- more than 500 firefighters, family uptisqui non re conse is et vellab ium members and dignitaries gathered on eatur autent faccuptatiur accus dest, sam the steps of the California Capitol for aut vit pererov itemporia qui audae nec- a solemn candle-lit tribute to com- tibus ime rest, ex eum nonsequae vendit memorate the 15th anniversary of the acestrumet, sitem. Cias num nonsequaest memorial. aliquid quaest, sapis arumqui optia pratio “A decade-long journey brought voluptatemos sunt ut quae sit rehenestore, this memorial into reality in 2002. Since then, its brushed limestone wall has been inscribed with the names of 1,325 fallen firefighters are engraved. over 1,300 of our fallen,” Paulson said. The Memorial was created without any “Tonight, we look back on the history state funding through private contribu- of this memorial and the lives of all of tions to the California Fire Foundation, those whose names are etched in our most of them directly from firefighters. state’s history.” Save the date for the 2018 Memorial Unveiled in April of 2002, the Cali- which will be held on Saturday, Septem- fornia Firefighters Memorial features ber 29th. For additional information, two stunning statues and a dramatic visit www.cafirefoundation.org/ Memorial Wall on which the names of memorial.

12 THIRD QUARTER | VOLUME 25 NO. 3 CALIFORNIA PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS Caption: Cias num nonsequaest aliquid quaest, sapis arumqui optia pratio voluptatemos sunt ut quae sit rehenestore,

Photos by Robbie Panco

CALIFORNIA PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS THIRD QUARTER | VOLUME 25 NO. 3 13 LEGISLATIVE AND POLITICAL UPDATES

AB 512 (Freddie Rodriguez, D-Pomona) FIREFIGHTER AGENDA Extends (to January 1, 2023) the ability for a disabled CalPERS safety member to receive an industrial disability retirement (IDR) REMAINS STRONG IN 2017 benefit equal to the greatest of one of the three different retirement options. Governor signs several CPF-backed bills in latest legislative session AB 579 (Heath Flora, R-Modesto) The dust has finally settled after an intense 2017 legislative Requires the Division of Apprenticeship Standards (DAS) to develop a statewide session, and pro-firefighter legislation has once again gained firefighter pre-apprenticeship program in favor in our state’s capitol. conjunction with the California Firefighter Joint Apprenticeship Committee (Cal-JAC), In the closing hours before his deadline, Governor Jerry Brown aiding local fire agencies in the recruitment signed into law several pieces of CPF-sponsored legislation that of candidates from underrepresented serve to protect an injured firefighter’s disability retirement, groups. This bill takes effect immediately. develop a statewide firefighter pre-apprenticeship program AB 1338 and establish timely notification protocols for firefighters and (Evan Low, D-Campbell) EMS workers who are exposed to communicable diseases. Allows the survivor of an active or retired fallen firefighter to independently apply for These successes augment a major and receive their own firefighter specialty accomplishment from earlier in the year, license plate. Proceeds from the purchase of a plate benefit the California Fire Foundation. with the securing of a significant portion of revenues from the state’s cap- AB 1487 and-trade extension for mutual (Freddie Rodriguez, D-Pomona) aid, fire suppression and forest Limits the amount of time that a local public management. agency or school member of CalPERS can serve in an out-of-class or temporarily upgraded position to 960 hours per fiscal Here is a rundown of the year. The bill would incentivize employers measures recently signed to permanently fill vacancies and provide into law. Unless otherwise certainty and stability for the employee noted, these bills take who will no longer be required to perform effect January 1, additional duties in perpetuity and not be 2018: fairly compensated for that work. SB 226 (Robert Hertzberg, D-Van Nuys) Strengthens disclosure requirements governing the political use of public safety logos by slate mail organizations.

SB 432 (Richard Pan, D-Sacramento) Requires health facilities to immediately notify an EMS provider upon determination that they have been exposed to a person diagnosed with a communicable disease.

As in year’s past, this session’s legislative success is attributed to the efforts and active engagement of CPF members statewide. It is your involvement that ensures that the firefighter voice is heard.

To keep track of CPF’s efforts in the capitol and in your community, visit www.cpf.org.

14 THIRD QUARTER | VOLUME 25 NO. 3 CALIFORNIA PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS LEGISLATIVE AND POLITICAL UPDATES

CAP AND TRADE FIREFIGHTERS PUSH YIELDS MILLIONS FOR DISASTER PREPARE RESPONSE FUNDING FOR 2018 Grassroots advocacy from CPF membership yields ELECTION YEAR $300 million investment in state’s fire service CPF adds Deputy Political Director Shawn Stark to its ranks

The 2018 electionyear will be an all-hands-on- deck affair for firefighters up and down the state, and California Profes- sional Firefighters has added an extra set of hands to the fight. In August, CPF expanded its political department with the hiring of Shawn Stark, Thanks to aggressive advocacy from repeal of the SRA fire fee. retired 18-year Oak- California Professional Firefighters, land firefighter (retired California’s mutual aid system received a • Another $220 million to CAL FIRE captain) and former major injection of funding by way of the for forest protection and wildland political director for Oak- state’s recently extended greenhouse gas fire prevention to help reduce the land-Alameda County reduction program. risk of massive fires. Firefighters, Local 55. Shawn Stark, Deputy Political Director In the early summer of 2017, the As CPF’s deputy political California Professional Firefighters California Legislature voted to extend the “The disaster response funding secured director for affiliate cam- state’s greenhouse gas reduction fund, com- through the extension of the cap and trade paigns, Shawn has gotten off to a fast start, traveling the state monly referred to as the “cap-and-trade” program will help address California’s with Political Director Chris Patterson to brief the membership program, through the year 2030. Following growing wildland fire problem, which is on CPF’s new political services, as well as its new “Blueprint for the extension, the governor’s office released both a cause of climate change and one Building Affiliate Strength” program. a funding allocation that saw millions of if its most devastating effects,” said CPF Their message has been a simple one - the time to prepare for dollars put toward the state’s mutual aid President Lou Paulson. “These dollars will next year’s busy political season is now. program, which has been stretched thin by help safeguard our climate future while pro- Shawn and Chris have been very active in engaging affiliated disasters directly resulting from a chang- tecting Californians today … here and now.” local for 2018, providing a series of PAC trainings up and down ing climate. In the weeks leading up the final vote, the state. Training topics have included Political Action Commit- The proposal, which accounts for a CPF, as well as representatives from the tee (PAC) set up and operation, internal organization, engaging more than $300 million investment in California Fire Chiefs Association, worked local elected officials, controlling your image, media relations the state’s fire service, was ultimately to make the case to the Legislature that and building coalitions. Additional presentations included social approved by the legislature, and will see California’s mutual aid system was in dire media training and detailed legal PAC training. Preparing for vital funds being directed to local agencies need of a dedicated, ongoing source of elections today will pave the way for success at the bargaining and CAL FIRE for wildfire protection, pre- revenue. The effort saw a joint, labor-man- table tomorrow. vention and forest health. agement media event, testimony before CPF Media Services, Firefighters Print and Design and Firestar multiple legislative committees, regular Studios were also on hand to exhibit the numerous tools the CPF In all, the proposal includes: email updates to legislators and their staffs has available for our members. With these resources on hand, and the activation of CPF’s grassroots net- CPF can provide everything needed to make a locals’ campaign • $25 million for local mutual work of local affiliates. a success, including voter contact lists, mail, signs, social media aid response to aid local agen- “The successful passage of the state’s cap videos and commercials. CPF can also assist with messaging, cies, which bear a huge burden in and trade funding was a whole team effort, as well as access to polling and legal professionals with years of mutual aid response, in pre-posi- and one that illustrates the full potential of experience helping firefighters throughout the state. Virtually tioning resources and equipment our union’s ability to implement change in all campaign materials can be prepared in a union shop owned in areas of greatest risk. Sacramento,” Paulson said. “While there’s by the CPF, allowing locals to get their message to voters in a still work to be done on California’s mutual targeted and cost effective manner while saving a significant • $75 million to CAL FIRE for fire aid system, these new funds will help amount of money in the process. prevention to make them whole ensure that California is ready to respond For more information about political programs heading into for the revenue lost with the when disaster strikes.” the 2018 election year, contact CPF at (916) 921-9111.

CALIFORNIA PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS THIRD QUARTER | VOLUME 25 NO. 3 15 Tim Strack st CPF 1 District Vice President DISTRICT REPORT CPF District 1 represents the counties of San Bernardino, Riverside, San Diego, Imperial and Orange. 1st

Measure E, dealt with the city’s taxa- tion structure for newly approved PALM SPRINGS recreational cannabis facilities, and is expected to add new revenue to the roughly $1.5 million the city currently FIREFIGHTERS generated from cannabis taxes. Roughly 80 percent of voters cast a ballot in favor of Measure E. EARN CLEAN “These measure, specifically Measure D, heavily favor public safety funding,” Kelsheimer said. “We’re happy that we SWEEP ON were able to successfully make the case for these measures with our citizens.” To help garner support for both their ELECTION DAY endorsed candidates and the two mea- sures, Local 3601 engaged in a massive Members of Palm Springs Profes- ity on the Inland Empire community’s that help secure vital funding for pub- campaign effort, one that saw grassroots sional Firefighters, Local 3601 had governing body. lic safety in the coming years. The first, efforts paired with the work of local plenty to celebrate on Election Night, “We had a pretty strong outcome Measure D, represented a half-cent sales firms such as LG Campaigns and New with voters handing down a series of in our previous council election, so it tax increase that’s projected to generate Equity Productions. decisions that will help set both the city was vital for us to keep that momen- an additional $7 million for the city’s “Our partners in these races were and the local on the right path for years tum moving forward,” said Local 3601 general fund. Throughout the campaign, vital,” Kelsheimer said. “In the two to come. President Jeff Kelsheimer. “Both Christy city officials pledged to dedicate a large months leading up to Election Day, our On November 8th, voters in Palm and Lisa were strongly committed to us portion of these funds to fire and police members were doing almost everything Springs sent both of Local 3601’s early on, and we were happy to stand by services in Palm Springs. Measure D imaginable - walking precincts, writing endorsed candidates, Christy Holstege them on Election Day.” was ultimately approved by 57 percent articles, phone banking and more. It and Lisa Middleton, to the City Council, In addition to the council races, vot- of voters. was a major effort, but, in the end, the shoring up a strong public safety major- ers also approved a pair of tax measures The second measure, known as results made it all worth it.”

tions and an engaged and supportive 1970s, the annual training/union fund membership. raiser became a visible and valuable LONGTIME CORONA “First, the members saw how hard I resource not only for Corona firefighters was physically working … as a firefighter but those from surrounding departments. and as president,” Steiner said. “They also “It turned into a significant coopera- PRESIDENT CALLS saw the victories. When the public was tive effort,” he said. “The fire chiefs agreed praising us, they said ‘this feels good.’” to pay our instructors, backfill them and Of course, the emphasis on coop- cover them if they take a high-lift jack to IT A CAREER eration did not mean Local 3757 the forehead. And it’s still an association backed away from a fight if need be. fund-raiser, with the proceeds going back When Jim Steiner went to work for most proud of.” Backed by his membership, Steiner to our community work with kids.” Corona Fire Department in 1986, word When he was would direct resources whenever The experience of leading the union got back that he might have some politi- first elected presi- the local was threatened, wherever developed an appreciation for the solidar- cal skills. Almost before he was out of dent in 2002, Steiner it came from. ity at the heart of the union at every level. orientation, he was involved with Corona approached his chief “We had one chief who wasn’t quite on “Having the power of numbers and knowl- Firefighters Local 3757, first as a political seeking to build bridges from board with our labor-management coop- edge is a great advantage, and working action director and then as Local 3757’s the get-go. eration,” he recalled. “We got rid of him.” with other locals through CPF and IAFF president. “Instead of padding the war chest, my Steiner was also a fierce and visible makes a huge difference,” Steiner said. Over three decades of service to his philosophy was to try to prevent the war advocate for retirement security and Asked to reflect on his 30 years in city and his members ended this past from starting,” Steiner said. “That meant union solidarity. He worked as a CPF the fire service and the union, Steiner June when Steiner retired from the establishing strong labor-management regional coordinator during statewide emphasized never forgetting who you department and from the local. But he cooperation agreements. That style also initiative campaigns to protect pensions work for. “We work for the people, so looks back with pride on a legacy built on comes over to working with the city coun- and political rights. In 2016, CPF recog- we should put our energy into protect- giving back, getting involved and work- cil and city manager … finding ‘win-wins’ nized his success and influence with the ing the people both on and off duty,” he ing hard for his members. wherever we could.” Dallas Jones Award for Political Action. concluded. “We’re always going to be in “The culture of giving is part of our That collaboration, backed by skilled Steiner’s watch also saw expansion of a battle – nobody’s going to give us any- makeup … part of our members’ core. and strategic political engagement, Local 3757’s unique union-sponsored thing. We win when we work together, More than anything, that’s what I’m helped Local 3747 win contracts, elec- Auto Extrication Training. Begun in the stick together and put people first.”

16 THIRD QUARTER | VOLUME 25 NO. 3 CALIFORNIA PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS Chris Mahon nd CPF 2 District Vice President DISTRICT REPORT CPF District 2 represents the counties of Kern, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Ventura and Los Angeles - with the exception of United Firefighters of Los Angeles City, Local 112 and Los Angeles County Fire nd Fighters, Local 1014. 2 COMPTON FIREFIGHTERS, CPF POLITICAL TEAM ORGANIZE FOR 2018 AND BEYOND Establishment of political action committee could make Local 2216 key player in local politics

The 2018 election figures to be a big one for cities across California, and firefighters in Compton are laying the foundation Photo: Jeff Zimmerman needed to make a differ- ence in local races. Earlier this year, IT BURNS AND KEEPS ON BURNING … Compton Firefighters, Massive wildfires whipped by vicious Santa Ana winds swept through most of Southern Local 2216 took the vital California in early December. Within a week of its launch, the Thomas Fire became the step of approving the 5th largest in California history. formation of a political action committee, a move that, while critical for suc- cess in today’s political arena, proved to be something of a stick- COURT RULING COULD SPELL ing point in past years. “If we were given a choice, I think a lot of peo- TROUBLE FOR ‘CAFETERIA PLANS’ ple would not want to be politically active,” said Local 2216 President Danny Gomez, explaining the local’s past hesitation around estab- In a recent ruling, Flores v. City of San more than $10.00 per hour. lishing a PAC. “The reality is that, to have the resources needed to do Gabriel, the Supreme Court let stand a 9th As a federal appeals case, the Flores ruling your job correctly, you have to be politically active.” District Court of Appeals ruling in favor of is effectively law and will apply throughout To help make the case to Local 2216’s membership, Gomez called Flores, a case brought by the San Gabriel the district, including all of California upon the services of CPF’s political department, specifically newly Police Officers Association, asserting that While this decision has a potential to be appointed Deputy Political Director Shawn Stark, who was brought cash received in lieu of medical plan con- of great financial benefit for those affected, on board after a career with the Oakland Fire Department as well tributions should be treated as income and it’s not all good news. as political director for Local 55, to help locals establish political included in overtime calculations. San Gabriel Firefighters Local 2197 Presi- programs throughout the state. On a basic level, this means that if employ- dent Dave Milligan reports that the ruling “Having Shawn come in and explain it to our membership body just ees receive cash back from their so-called has affected current contract negotiations, put a completely new face on it,” Gomez said. “We had been talking “cafeteria plan” because the employer’s with the city asking for broad reductions to about it for a long time, and had met a lot of resistance. Shawn and contribution is greater than your insurance offset the cost of the new benefit. Of equal the rest of CPF were able to explain, from experience, why we needed premiums, or because you “opt out”, the value concern is the future of cafeteria plans, as this. As soon as they came down, we had a vote and it was a done deal.” of the cash-out should be added to their over- employers may begin to target plans with While CPF’s voice helped push the issue over the goal line, the assis- time pay rate. Moreover, the court said that if a cash back option and move toward plans tance from Sacramento hasn’t stopped there, Gomez said. Throughout the value an employee can potentially receive that do not. the process, CPF has helped Local 2216 work through a variety of in cash is high enough, than the full value of There are some employers that do already minor speed bumps, as well as provided an avenue for the local to the benefit should be included on overtime include cafeteria pay in overtime, at least receive political and legal guidance with relative ease. whether the employee opts to take it as cash for the amount actually received in cash. “Not every local is going to need CPF to come down to a general or not. In the City of San Gabriel, where the At a minimum, union leaders may want to membership meeting for them, but they’re doing so much more than case originated, the benefit is over $1,500 per evaluate their situation to make sure they that,” Gomez said. “Calling to see what they can do for you and your month and virtually all of it can be taken in are receiving the benefit provided under the local is something I’d definitely recommend.” cash. That means the overtime rate is boosted Flores decision.

CALIFORNIA PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS THIRD QUARTER | VOLUME 25 NO. 3 17 Bobby Weist CPF 3rd District Vice President DISTRICT REPORT CPF District 3 represents the counties of Del Norte, Siskiyou, Modoc, Humboldt, Trinity, Shasta, Lassen, Mendocino, Tehama, Plumas, Lake, Glenn, Butte, Colusa, Sutter, Yuba, Sierra, Yolo, Placer, Sacramento, El Dorado, San Joaquin, Amador, rd Calaveras, Alpine, Stanislaus, Tuolumne, Mono, Merced, Mariposa, Monterey, Santa Cruz, San Benito, Fresno, Kings, Madera, Nevada, Tulare and Inyo. 3 LOCAL 652 MEMBER WORKS TO HONOR FALLEN BROTHERS

Thanks to the diligent work of a union these guys were and what in fact actually brother from decades later, five men who did occur.” made the ultimate sacrifice for the com- Terry’s search for answers, which munity have earned a permanent place spanned the better part of six months, of honor at the state Capitol. saw him poring over department log Earlier this year, the names of five books and news clips dating back to fallen firefighters from the Eureka fire the 1930s, while speaking with retired Department, today known as the Hum- firefighters and family members to help boldt Bay Fire Department, has their discern whether the rumors were indeed names added to the California Firefight- true. In the end, he submitted a list of five ers Memorial in Sacramento. In all five firefighters, whose deaths spanned back cases, the honor came several decades to 1934, the California Fire Foundation after their deaths, and likely would never for inclusion on the memorial wall. had happened without the diligent work The men, Leonard Nathan Winslow, of Humboldt Bay firefighters, Local 652 George Davis, Raymond Bernard Somma, member David Terry. Adolph Oss and Robert Brown McGil- “I’ve always heard rumors that we had livray, now have a permanent place of guys that worked here that had died in honor among the more than 1,300 fallen the line of duty and nobody knew names heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice to or dates or what happened, it was all kind keep California safe. of rumors or myth,” Terry said in the “I think it’s important,” Terry said. days leading up to this year’s ceremony. “(Eureka) should know that there are a “I thought it was pretty important that lot of people that who made the ultimate we figure out exactly what happened, who sacrifice for this community.

ONE TEAM. ONE FIGHT.

Locals from across California Professional Firefighters’ 3rd District came to the aid of communities across California, as wildfires raged from San Diego up to the Oregon border.

In all, dozens of locals from across District 3 responded to major incidents, with fires in the North Bay and Ventura county demanding the largest response.

The final months of 2017 serve as a excellent reminder that, when the alarm sounds, California’s firefighters respond as one team, fighting one fight.

18 THIRD QUARTER | VOLUME 25 NO. 3 CALIFORNIA PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS Jeff DelBono th CPF 4 District Vice President DISTRICT REPORT CPF District 4 represents the counties of Sonoma, Napa, Solano, Marin, Contra Costa, Alameda, San Francisco, San Mateo and Santa Clara. 4 th

that allowed us to find our members NORTHERN CALIFORNIA who’d lost homes and help them and their families get back on their feet. The UNIONS STEP UP IN California Fire Foundation had thou- sands of SAVE cards to us by Tuesday to RESPONSE TO HISTORIC distribute not just to our members, but to all the people in the community who NORTH BAY FIRES lost their homes. The CPF connections also helped bring both U.S. senators On the evening of October 8, 2017, communities in the North and Governor Brown all together in our Bay were ravaged by what became the deadliest firestorm in union office, hearing the stories of our firefighters who’d lost homes. California history, claiming 43 lives and destroying over 8,000 homes, most within a matter of hours. In the center of the What kind of help storm was the city of Santa Rosa, which lost 11 percent of its did the union offer? homes in the Tubbs Fire. Santa Rosa Firefighters Local 1401 Firefighters and families that lost homes were able to come in and get an IAFF President Tim Aboudara, whose local was the command post Disaster Relief card, a California Fire for an unprecedented relief effort, reflected on the experience. Foundation SAVE card, information on how to access Red Cross, FEMA and Why was the Tubbs Fire was at work. John Bagala with Marin in the area come together so forth. Probably the most important so destructive? Firefighters Local 1775’s executive board to help the membership? thing we were able to offer was peer sup- You had 40 to 70 mile-an-hour winds came up and opened the union office, We had over 15 different locals that sent port. Locals that had helped out during and canyons feeding east to west. The and once we got together we started put- members to our union hall to volunteer. the Ghost Ship Fire, came in. We started fire sometimes was travelling a couple ting a plan in place. On any given day, we had as many as 25 doing station meetings and reaching out hundred feet per minute through areas people at our union hall or being dis- to families. This incident was historic in you can’t get to, and the fire happened What were you focused on in patched to do work supporting members, its magnitude, destruction and death toll. at night -- all the homes that were in helping the membership? the community and the incident. Local We know we are going to have behavioral the path of this fire had people sleeping Our number one priority was locating 1775, which was right down the road, set health struggles in our agencies, so it’s in them. By sunrise on Monday, six or our members and their families who up a fund-raising page for our affected important to engage right away. seven hours of burning, 6,000 or 7,000 had lost their homes. We had as many members that has raised more than a homes had been burned and close to as 700 firefighter homes in the threat- quarter million dollars. There wasn’t a As you look back on the event, 40,000 people had been evacuated. ened areas, and 41 lost their homes. Our local in the Bay Area or the Sacramento were there any insights gained? next priority was supporting the inci- area that didn’t participate or contribute. I think mostly this just reinforced to How did the union dent itself. For the first 24 to 36 hours, us what the union is all about. It didn’t mobilize its efforts? there really wasn’t an Incident Action What kind of help did you matter if it was Local 689 in Alameda, As soon as I came off the fire lines, I Plan or logistical support, so we as the get from CPF and IAFF? or 798 in San Francisco or 1775 in Marin called CPF and IAFF and started to set union were getting water, food and sup- We had the entire leadership CPF and or 1186 in Vallejo. We were all union, we up a local command center. Since the plies up to the companies on the lines. IAFF leadership all together in our were all firefighters and we were all there department did a mandatory recall, office by Tuesday, providing support. for one mission: to help our members everyone was firefighting, everyone How did the other unions CPF and IAFF helped us build the map and our communities.

the region stood ready to assist in a time “The outpouring of support was who came together to make the evening ALAMEDA, of need. incredible, particularly from within the possible. All lobster served throughout Chief among those offering aid were firefighter community,” said Alameda the evening was donated by the New BAY AREA the members of Alameda Firefighters, Firefighters President and CPF 4th Dis- England Lobster Company in Burlingame, Local 689, who, in the days immediately trict Vice President Jeff Delbono. “The while Tucker’s Ice Cream, Linguine’s FIREFIGHTERS following the worst of the devastation, men and women who lost their homes Pizza, Faction Brewing and Wine Trees organized a lobster feed fundraiser on the during this disaster worked tirelessly to USA came together to donate the remain- COME TO AID decks of the USS Hornet to raise money protect their communities, and this event ing food and beverages for the event. OF NORTH BAY for firefighters who had lost their homes was just one small way that we can sup- “This event couldn’t have happened in the wildfires that burned throughout port them and their families on their road without the support of residents and busi- COLLEAGUES Napa and Sonoma counties. to recovery.” nesses throughout the Bay Area,” Delbono In all, nearly 200 tickets were sold, with In addition to support from within the said. “Watching them come together for When more than 50 firefighters lost attendees coming from various locals fire family, the event enjoy considerable such a good cause was truly inspiring, and their homes in the North Bay wildfires, across CPF’s 4th District to stand together backing from the community, including something that firefighters throughout their union brothers and sisters across with those who had lost everything. a variety of businesses and local vendors the Bay Area won’t soon forget.”

CALIFORNIA PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS THIRD QUARTER | VOLUME 25 NO. 3 19

Michael Massone th CPF 5 District Vice President DISTRICT REPORT CPF District 5 represents federal firefighters across the state of California. 5th

GOOD NEIGHBORS: FEDERAL FIREFIGHTERS LOOK TO SHORE UP MUTUAL AID Photo: Craig Rose Craig Photo:

When disaster strikes, firefighters are same way that state and local firefighters found its way into the way we respond Toward the end of the year, I’ll be ready to answer the call. have been there for us in seasons past. to major disasters. While a good number sitting down with leadership from the No matter the patch on your sleeve, the This system of mutual aid is one of the of California’s federal fire departments state’s Office of Emergency Services to badge on your chest or the department most innovative and inclusive found do participate in the master mutual aid get a better picture of how federal fire- writing your paycheck, as firefighters, anywhere in the world, and it’s one agreement, across the board, it can be fighter factor in to the state’s mutual aid we’re sworn to protect the public. In Cali- that, time and time again, has proved something of a hit-and-miss affair. system, gain a better understanding of fornia, there’s no better evidence of this its worth when the unthinkable strikes. There’s also sometimes a question of their role and hopefully begin work to pledge than the master mutual aid agree- While the system is a strong one, reimbursement, particularly when major improve the system for the future. ment, and if you’re searching for proof it’s not without its quirks, and that’s incidents occur on federal lands, such as On the reimbursement front, discus- of this statement, recent events make it especially true when it comes to federal national parks or national forests. In the sions about placing a resolution before so that you don’t have to look very hard. firefighters. past, federal fire departments have had the IAFF convention are already in the This past year, when historic levels of As federal civilian firefighters, a difficult time received reimbursement works, evidence that our union voice devastation struck our state, local, state employees of a massive institution for mutual aid work, due to a set of fed- can go a long way toward bettering the and federal firefighters all answered the centered more than 3,000 miles away, eral rules having to do with one federal state’s fire service for all of us. call. our role in the mutual aid system isn’t agency billing another. Problems such as Removing barriers such as these Federal firefighters from CPF’s 5th always as clear cut as our brothers and these only serve to limit the potential of promises improving how we, as federal District stood alongside our brothers sisters across California. Often times, our state’s mutual aid system, and stand firefighters, integrate with our local and and sisters from CAL FIRE and local our day-to-day responsibilities involve in the way of its goal of providing the state counterparts in the face of disaster, departments to combat these disasters, provide fire protection to military best level of fire protection possible. helping ensure that when the call goes as resources from these agencies were bases, or some other federal installa- While problems such as these have out, we’re all ready to answer. deployed across the state. We were there tion, that can sometimes feel isolated hindered our role in the past, I’m hope- After all, state and local firefighters on the front lines, defending communi- from the nearby communities, and in ful that they won’t continue to do so in are our neighbors, and isn’t that what ties outside of our own jurisdictions, the some ways, that sense of separation has the future. neighbors are for?

20 THIRD QUARTER | VOLUME 25 NO. 3 CALIFORNIA PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS

Mike Lopez th CPF 6 District Vice President DISTRICT REPORT CPF District 6 represents CAL FIRE, Local 2881. 6 th A GOOD YEAR Photo: Cy Phenice

The bargaining process was typically The great strength of the CPF is when density, growth patterns, economic new positions for which they tested, protracted in 2017, but it never degen- all of us work together on behalf of the issues that engender building in place were qualified and deserved, were erated into name-calling or either side advancement of all professional fire- of risk, and the reality of climate change restored to their jobs after a bureaucratic taking public umbrage with comments fighters. are giving us fires that would have been decision regarding the integrity of the made by the other. When I am asked what I chose to do as unimaginable a generation ago. testing was posed. While we were disappointed with the my lifetime profession, I am very proud The conflagration in Napa that closed The fundamental purpose of the initial offering, we stayed at the table to say that I am a firefighter. I am aware the fire season was especially disas- union is making the case that the rights and through a painstakingly careful when I make this admission, the public trous and prompted our Congressional of the individual firefighter must be review of the critical role Cal FIRE Local perceives all of us who are in this line of delegation to ask for an additional 4.4 both respected and protected. We put 2881 plays in the emergency response work as the same - we truly are a family billion dollars in relief. The supplemental our entire team, including our public system in California we ended up with by the very nature of our livelihood. spending bill is designed to provide the outreach, political advocacy and legal a contract four-times beyond the start- funding necessary to mount not only an experts, on the alert that individual ing point. THE CLOSING FIRE efficacious recovery program, but to put jobs are sacrosanct and the security of The end result of course is more The impacts of climate change are in place the structural ability to re-build. our members is our number one priority. than just a move toward parity. It also being felt in virtually every aspect of Certainly, we are learning through None of the work we do matters if we increases the capacity of Cal FIRE to be life in California. However, a case can harsh examples, and the long days and don’t take care of firefighters first and more competitive in their wages, ben- be made that the consequences on the weeks without respite for our men and foremost. efits and conditions. fires we are experiencing are especially women in the field, that a more proactive We appreciated very much the par- significant. funding policy needs to be implemented CAL FIRE LOCAL 2881 ticipation of the IAFF and the CPF in Seven of the 10 most costly fires at both the state and federal level. The We are approaching our 38th anniver- a rally that we led on the west steps of experienced by California have taken grim reality exists that the wild lands, sary as a member of the CPF. The lesson the Capitol to educate legislators on place in this past decade. A frightening or perhaps more accurately the urban/ we have learned in those almost four the duties and responsibilities of our addendum to that discussion is the fires wildlife interface is going to burn with decades is that internal communication, brothers and sisters. The mid-morning have not been isolated to any single geo- real ferocity and the impact are going to a setting of priorities, a commitment to event would not have been as success- graphic location, but have occurred in be profound. responding to the grassroots, a partner- ful without the incredible willingness every sector of the state. ship that extends to the federal level of firefighters from other departments A white paper that we wrote after RESTORING JOBS with the IAFF and a precise and disci- willing to stand shoulder-to-shoulder bringing experts together for a confer- We were pleased in 2017 that seven of plined approach to protecting the public with us in solidarity. ence ran the numbers that population, our firefighters who were promoted to is the formula to success.

CALIFORNIA PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS THIRD QUARTER | VOLUME 25 NO. 3 21 Dave Gillotte th CPF 7 District Vice President DISTRICT REPORT CPF District 7 represents Los Angeles County Fire Fighters, Local 1014. 7th A BUSY END TO A BUSY YEAR

The last quarter of 2017 has been a have helped to secure the funding for our busy time for the 7th District - Los Ange- services for years to come, allowing us les County Fire Fighters, Local 1014. to provide the highest level of services Collectively, Local 1014 represent to these cities and the residents of Los more than 3,200 firefighters, paramed- Angeles County. A big thank you to our ics and fire personnel, and provide fire Local 1014 members, our voters and our and EMS protection to more than 2,000 election partners on two wins that will square miles, including all unincorpo- solidify funds for fire, police and other rated areas of Los Angeles County and vital services for the next decade. nearly 60 contract cities. Over four million residents rely on Los LOCAL 1014 HONORED Angeles County Firefighters to protect WITH “PARTNERSHIP FOR their lives, their homes and their busi- SUCCESS” AWARD AT CAL- nesses. We are proud professionals who JAC CONFERENCE work hard at keeping our trade and our This November, I was proud to attend the craft a “tradition of excellence” as we 14th Biennial California Firefighter Joint serve the public. Apprenticeship Committee (Cal-JAC) Caption: Eprat voluptat. Tem fugit haruptisqui non re conse is et vellab ium eatur autent Conference in Rancho Mirage, California. tu a faccuptatiur accus dest, sam aut vit pererov itemporia qui audae nectibus ime rest. NOVEMBER 2017 At the conference, Los Angeles County ELECTION UPDATE Firefighters Local 1014, together with a 7.1 magnitude earthquake hit Mexico done in the past with the earthquake in This November, Local 1014 had two big the Los Angeles County Fire Depart- City killing hundreds and destroying Nepal in 2015, we also sent PEERS and election wins in El Monte and Haw- ment, was awarded the “Partnership for thousands of structures. Behavioral Health Teams and Chaplains thorne. Staying engaged in the political Success” Award. This award is presented Our LA County Fire Department to the affected areas to assist with the landscape both in the County of Los at every Cal-JAC conference to honor Urban Search & Rescue (US&R) per- behavioral health needs of Firefighters Angeles and in the contract cities we departments that demonstrate a special sonnel were deployed by the Federal and their families. represent is essential to maintaining commitment to the labor-management Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Mutual aid is one of the most impor- the first-class service for our residents. partnership. While we still have more and the USAID's Office of U.S. Foreign tant resources we have and we are proud Local 1014 members walked precincts, work to do, this award is a testament to Disaster Assistance for all of these inci- to answer the call when our brothers and phone banked and reached thousands the tremendous growth of the depart- dents within a few days of each disaster. sisters are in need. of voters, ultimately leading to victories ment/union relationship in Los Angeles We were proud to support our members Thank you to all CPF members who in both cities. There is no question that County. As we move into 2018, we will and their families as they assisted our were deployed and thank you to their the turnout numbers were higher than continue to focus on working with the brother and sisters across the country families for their commitment to a life expected in both cities because of the Department to create better working and around the world. As Local 1014 had of service. tremendous show of support from our conditions for our members and better Local 1014 members. We called for help service for our residents. and you showed up in force. We walked for eight days and had over 140 members FINAL THOUGHTS on the street in the cities of Hawthorne Finally, I would like to thank all our CPF and El Monte. members and especially our Local 1014 In Hawthorne, Measure HH proposed members who were deployed as part to raise the sales tax from 9.5 percent of the massive Urban Sear & Rescue to 10.25 percent in order to provide efforts in Texas, Florida, Mexico City vital services to residents. This sales and Puerto Rico. tax increase will generate an estimated This fall our members across Califor- $8.5 million yearly. Local 1014 members nia have been tested by an unprecedented visited or called over 4,190 Hawthorne wave of large scale disasters throughout voters, which was well over our projec- North America. Hurricane Harvey made tion of 3,500 we anticipated before Get landfall August 25, along the Texas Gulf Out The Vote (GOTV) weekend. Coast bringing “biblical” amounts of In El Monte, Measure EM renewed rain, damaging winds and widespread the sales tax 0.5 percent increase which flooding. Less than two weeks later, on was set to expire in March of 2019 for September 8 through September 10, another 10 years. Hurricane Irma tore through Florida Panco Robbie Photo: These two cities, Hawthorne and El and Puerto Rico, making landfall as a Caption: Eprat voluptat. Tem fugit haruptisqui non re conse is et vellab ium eatur autent Monte are fee for service cities, and we Category 4 hurricane. On September 20, tu a faccuptatiur accus dest, sam aut vit pererov itemporia qui audae nectibus ime rest.

22 THIRD QUARTER | VOLUME 25 NO. 3 CALIFORNIA PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS Tony Gamboa th CPF 8 District Vice President DISTRICT REPORT CPF District 8 represents the United Firefighters of Los Angeles City, Local 112. 8th

and wellness challenges by creating a Behavioral Health Program. UFLAC’S UFLAC Behavioral Health Program, and pro- grams like it across the country, are beginning to give firefighters tools, HOSTS training, and support that will assist them to be in a better position to effec- tively deal with the very real and unique IAFF PEER stressors that are part of the job. UFLAC is making this mission a high priority, even renovating the old Fire SUPPORT Station 7 in Arleta to build a new, dedi- cated home for our Behavioral Health and Wellness Center. The center will be TRAINING opening in the spring of 2018 and will assist members with behavioral health Every occupation comes with its own issues, addiction issues, and physical unique features and characteristics. recovery from job-related injuries and The job of a professional firefighter is a illnesses. In addition, the center will highly sought after and well-respected assist members with workers’ compen- position that has many demands. It is sation issues, financial issues, cancer a challenging and exciting profession support, and will sponsor a Peer Support with the opportunity for growth and Team. These confidential services are development, but it also comes with free to our members and their families. distinct risks and stress factors that sim- As part of our overall wellness pro- ply do not exist in most other careers. gram, UFLAC was excited to be able to The threat of serious injury, up to and offer the IAFF two-day Peer Support including death, is a very real possibility; Training on November 30 and December and the stress of any given call is simply 1, 2017. This training gave individuals different than the pressure of other jobs. the tools to be able to actively listen, The professional fire service recog- provide important information and nizes that there is a cumulative effect of support, and become that bridge for a the stressors that Firefighters face over member in need to help them receive the the course of a career. This cumulative professional assistance that they may trauma is in addition to all of the normal require but may be hesitant to reach out stress that comes with daily living, such for on their own. Captions: Eprat voluptat. Tem fugit haruptisqui non re conse is et vellab ium eatur autent as relationships and finances, that can The training provided at the UFLAC tu a faccuptatiur accus dest, sam aut vit pererov itemporia qui audae nectibus ime rest. and do impact mental health and overall Offices was an interactive course that wellbeing. was presented by experienced peers and lone survivor of the 20-man Granite times we just can’t do it by ourselves. The Journal of Occupational Health clinicians who currently work/or have Mountain Hotshot Crew whose lives All Firefighters need help from time estimates that approximately 20 percent worked in the fire service. The training were claimed by the Yarnell Hill Fire. to time. There is no shame in this fact. of Firefighters and Paramedics suffer focused on active listening skills, suicide Brendan was brave enough to share his It is impossible to not be impacted by from Posttraumatic Stress Disorder awareness and prevention, crisis inter- personal journey about struggling and the things that we see and experience (PTSD); and a Florida State University vention, referrals to local resources, coping in the aftermath of losing his on a daily basis as Firefighters. When it study demonstrated that nearly half of and relationships with local behavioral Fire Family. gets to be too much, Firefighters need Firefighters have contemplated suicide, health providers. As we all know, the fire service has to remember that they are not alone. while approximately 15.5 percent have In addition to the UFLAC Executive evolved over the years. Some of the Resources are available and our peers actually attempted suicide. Board and our mental health profession- changes, particularly with safety equip- are here to help -contact your union lead- It has been found that Peer Support als who run UFLAC’s Behavioral Health ment, training, cancer awareness, and ership to get connected with services in Programs are an especially effective Program, the participants included many other issues have been changes your area. approach to mitigating the impact of LAFD Chief Ralph Terrazas, LA County for the better. In addition, our collective I want to offer a huge thank you to all cumulative stress, as well as creating an Fire Department Chief Daryl Osby, LA awareness and willingness to discuss of the participants, coordinators, and spe- opportunity for members to talk with County Fire Local 1014 President Dave PTSD-related issues and receive the cial guest speakers who made this IAFF other members who have "been there Gillotte, IAFF 10th District Vice Presi- assistance that we need has also been a Peer Support Training Program such a themselves" and have received special- dent Frank Lima, and IAFF Instructors very positive step forward. resounding success. As the fire service ized training in Peer Support. Joe Lennon (FDNY) and Hugh Doherty Our IAFF Peer Support Training continues to evolve, so will UFLAC as we At United Firefighters of Los Angeles (Toronto Professional Fire Fighters Program was another sign that our pro- continue to make the health and safety of City, Local 112, we have actively taken Association). The program also featured fession is moving in the right direction. our members and Firefighters everywhere steps to address behavioral health Special Guest Brendan McDonough, the We need to acknowledge that some- our very top priority.

CALIFORNIA PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS THIRD QUARTER | VOLUME 25 NO. 3 23 CAL-JAC

14TH BIENNIAL CAL-JAC CONFERENCE TAKES PLACE IN RANCHO MIRAGE, CA Photos by Robbie Panco

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For more than three decades, the agement and labor had an opportunity California Firefighter Joint Appren- to come together, set aside rank, and ticeship Committee (Cal-JAC) has been work toward turning the challenges of on the cutting edge of apprenticeship, the present into opportunities for the training and recruitment efforts, help- future. This year’s conference featured ing make California’s fire service the workshops on issues ranging from envy of the nation. addressing Post Traumatic Stress in the This past November, Cal-JAC once fire service to building comprehensive again, solidified its role as a leader recruitment campaigns back home. within California’s fire service at its 14th A major focus of the conference was Biennial Conference in Rancho Mirage, also the ongoing success of Cal-JAC’s California. More than 300 fire chiefs, Firefighter Candidate Testing Centers, labor presidents, training officers and which offer physical and written testing, sub-JAC members participated in the as well as recruitment services, for par- conference – all united in the Cal-JAC’s ticipating departments. Since the FCTC’s ongoing mission to create excellence in launch roughly two years ago, more than the fire service. 60 departments have come on board, hir- Caption: Evelendit mi, ut excerum ipsapid mincte la Consequae plibus et ut Co-sponsored by California Profes- ing qualified, vetted candidates from exerore pla sumquib usandit, il eatem autae non praectur, officipsum quibus. sional Firefighters and the Office of the FCTC’s Statewide Eligibility List. State Fire Marshal, the Cal-JAC is the Featured speakers during the event County Fire Department and Los Ange- tournament, silent auction and dinner nation’s model labor-management fire- included leadership speaker Gregg les County Firefighters, Local 1014. The reception, all benefiting the California fighter training partnership. Ward, who highlighted strategies for award is presented at every Cal-JAC Fire Foundation. “For more than three decades, the implelenting “respectful leadership” in conference to honor departments that “I’m thrilled to see labor and manage- Cal-JAC has remained focused on build- the fire service. Participants also heard demonstrate a special commitment to ment come together in such numbers, to ing a better California fire service,” said updates from California Fire Marshal the labor-management partnership at collaborate on issues that are important CPF President Lou Paulson. “The confer- Dennis Mathisen, CalChiefs Immediate the heart of the CAL-JAC’s mission. to all of us in the fire service,” said Cal- ence also offers an opportunity to forge Past President Mike DuRee and Cal-JAC Attendees ultimately gained insight JAC Chair Dan Terry. “It is a tribute to the critical labor management collabora- Chair Dan Terry. and useful tools to help them in their the commitment of all in our profession tion that is so vital to our profession.” Another highlight of the conference profession and learn more about the to the mission that has driven the CAL- Over the course of the three-day was the presentation of the “Partnership Cal-JAC program. The conference also JAC’s long history of success – creating conference, attendees from both man- for Success” award to the Los Angeles featured the Cal-JAC’s signature golf excellence in the fire service.”

24 THIRD QUARTER | VOLUME 25 NO. 3 CALIFORNIA PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS CAL-JAC

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CALIFORNIA PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS THIRD QUARTER | VOLUME 25 NO. 3 25 CAL-JAC

a fire service that more closely mirrors the communities it serves.” Candidates who complete the Cal-JAC Academy will also be offered a guaran- teed oral interview with the Sacramento Fire Department, making the academy an unmatched opportunity for those looking to enter the profession. “Through the Cal-JAC Academy, we’re going to be able to provide an opportunity to candidates in need,” said Sacramento Fire Chief Walt White. “We’re thrilled to be working together with the Cal-JAC on this innovative program.”

Photos: Robbie Panco Robbie Photos: During the roughly two-month recruitment period, hundreds of individ- gibility List by completing the CPAT and uals applied to be considered for a spot Written Exam. in the academy. Following a program CAL-JAC ACADEMY Funding for the Cal-JAC Academy orientation and academic assessment, comes from a $500,000 grant that was a panel of experts including fire chiefs, California’s first-ever pre-apprenticeship program awarded by the California Community labor presidents and program instruc- provides a direct pathway to the fire service College Chancellor’s Office to establish tors conducted interviews to select the pre-apprenticeship programs across the Cal-JAC Academy’s inaugural class. state. “As a fire service, I think we can be Beginning in January 2018, a pool ship Committee, the Sacramento Fire “The Cal-JAC Academy provides a proud to be a part of this program and of roughly 50 candidates will be taking Department, Sacramento Area Firefight- direct path to the fire service for can- better represent our communities, not their first steps toward a career in the ers, Local 522 and the Butte County didates who, otherwise, may not have just here in Sacramento, but across the fire service, and along the way, will be Office of Education, will offer candidates had the opportunity or resources needed state,” said Brian Rice, president of Sac- helping blaze the trail for the state’s first who successfully demonstrated financial to pursue this career,” said Yvonne de la ramento Area Firefighters, Local 522. even pre-apprenticeship model. need a roughly six-month, tuition-free, Pena, executive director for the Cal-JAC. “We’re going to work hard with the JAC, The Cal-JAC Academy, being offered emergency medical technician (EMT) “We’re proud to be able to work with our with our fire administration and with through a partnership between the course, as well as a opportunity to place partner agencies to remove these barri- our city administration to ensure this California Firefighter Joint Apprentice- their name on the FCTC Statewide Eli- ers to entry, and work toward building program is a success.”

CAL-JAC CAREER EXPOS Annual career expos bring hundreds of candidates to FCTC facilities across California

In virtually every corner of the state, who are looking for the next generation,” the Cal-JAC’s firefighter career expos are said Yvonne de la Pena, executive direc- working to introduce a new generation tor of the Cal-JAC. “Being able to hold of young adults to the fire service. multiple events, in different regions of This past year, a total of four expos the states, helps ensure that commu- drew more than 1,000 motivated candi- nities across the state can benefit from dates to one of the Cal-JAC’s Firefighter these events.” Candidate Testing Center facilities. In Throughout the day, expo attendees the spring, expos were held in North- were given the opportunity to try their ern California, with events in Livermore hand at the Candidate Physical Ability Panco Robbie Photo: and Sacramento each hundreds of candi- Test (CPAT), which measures the capa- dates to meet with recruiters from more bilities of firefighting recruits along “We want women to understand that career expos have gone on to be hired than a dozen departments. In the fall, eight job-specific areas. Candidates also this is a great career path,” said Melissa by California fire departments, further candidates in Southern California were met with recruiters, were given an idea Mohilla, a firefighter with the San Diego proof that attending an expo can repre- given their chance, when expos were of what to expect on the written test and Federal Fire Department and member sent the first in someone’s fire service held at FCTC’s location in San Diego, had the opportunity to find out more of the Cal-JAC’s Women’s Commission. career. as well as at the brand new facility in about “A Day in the Life of a Firefighter.” “The profession needs people with drive, “Firefighting is a rewarding and South El Monte, just outside of the city As in years past, the expos provide determination and ability. If you have demanding profession, but it’s not for of Los Angeles. an opportunity to recruit traditionally what it takes, nothing should stand in everybody,” said Cal-JAC Chair Dan “The firefighter career expos present underrepresented communities into the your way.” Terry. “Young people who think they’ve an opportunity for motivated, young fire service, specifically women and eth- Having been run for nearly a decade, ‘got what it takes,’ can take the first steps candidates to meet with the recruiters nic minorities. several past attendees of Cal-JAC’s by attending.”

26 THIRD QUARTER | VOLUME 25 NO. 3 CALIFORNIA PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS CALLBACK

San Bernardino City Firefighters Camp Pendleton Professional Michael Chiesa Local 891 Firefighters, Local F-85 Nancy DeMattei Sammie Fitts Doug Smith John Rosinski Herbert Goettelmann United Professional Firefighters of Carl Schilling Charles Martinez Contra Costa County, Local 1230 David Shum Thomas Parlett Steven Babcock Ronald Weaver Leslie Pompa Anthony Gatson Petaluma Firefighters Local 1415 San Bernardino County Professional Richard Gromacki Robert Hickox CALLBACK Firefighters Local 935 Randy Kramm Redlands Professional Firefighters Danny Bowling Robert Nelson Local 1354 Marc Peebles Martin O’Connell Robert Forsythe PAC San Jose Fire Fighters Local 230 Thomas Thiering Redondo Beach Firefighters Samuel Avila Daly City Firefighters Local 1879 Association Local 2787 Michael Blatz Robert Barbanica Allen Allred CONTRIBUTORS Jerry Buzzetta Don Ciucci Richmond Int’l Association of Kevin Conant Thomas Kahle Firefighters Local 188 Michael Curcio George Panellis Charles Haglund Jerry Ellis Davis Firefighters Local 3494 Riverside City Firefighters Ken Heredia Ray Brouette Association Local 1067 Gregory Martell Local 1186 Firefighters David Austin James McClure Herbert Jones Robert Linden Marin Professional Firefighters Clifford Pierce Michael McClure San Bernardino City Firefighters GOLD CIRCLE Douglas Potter Mitchel Whorton Local 891 Alameda Firefighters, Local 689 Local 1775 Charles Onorato San Mateo County Firefighters Local 2400 Glendale Fire Fighters Association Anthony Galvan Richard Bennett William Fearing, Jr. Local 776 Claude Miles Daren Olson Eric Stroud Modesto City Firefighters Wayne Williams Johnston Wray, III Fred Wrigley James Ritchey San Ramon Valley Firefighters Local 3546 Hayward Firefighters Local 1909 San Bernardino County Professional Alhambra Firefighters Association Association Local 1289 Charles Giles Gene Dangel Mike Henderson Firefighters Local 935 Local 1578 Michael Hann Lester Thompson Thomas Nichols Robert D’Ausilio Herbert Jenkins Gary Lopez Santa Barbara County Firefighters Hemet City Fire Fighters Association San Jose Fire Fighters Local 230 Berkeley Firefighters Local 1227 Association Local 2046 Local 2342 Phillip Ayers Richard Watters Cecil Ridge, II Monterey County Regional Fire Michael Bennett Scott Hudson John Flatley Burbank Firefighters Local 778 Santa Clara City Fire Fighters Local 1171 Hunters Point Local F-159 Arthur Garcia Monte Osborn Protection District Local 2606 Walter Days David Busse Paul Wallace Chuck Gluck CAL FIRE, Local 2881 Mountain View Professional Dan Gama, Jr. Kern County Fire Fighters Local 1301 Gregary Grenfell Paul Graham Santa Clara County Firefighters Milton DeLano Jeffrey Hunter Lloyd Limprecht Fire Fighters Local 1965 Dale Kuersten Local 1165 Mark Missildine Carl Kiepen Dennis O’Brien Lido Gemignani Scott Sampeer Ramon Luna Guyld Vincent Richard Ring Newport Beach Firefighters Robert Matthews, Jr. Steven Thompson Ronald Pomerantz Hank Weston Mark Winters Dennis Walker San Mateo County Firefighters Camp Pendleton Professional Association Local 3734 Randall Smith Santa Rosa Firefighters Local 1401 Livermore-Pleasanton Firefighters Local 2400 Firefighters, Local F-85 Oakland/Alameda County Ann Bruner-Welch Local 1974 Gerald Chevalier William Harvey Edward Burtner John Clanton John Dellinges Carlsbad Firefighters Firefighters Local 55 John Corrigan Timothy Doherty Long Beach Firefighters James Fields Association Local 3730 Timothy Hamlin Association Local 372 Kevin McDowell Richard Fisher Bruce Ghezzi Ralph Johnson Eileen Kortas Rodney Dykhouse David Meghinasso United Professional Firefighters of Kenton King Kenneth Wills Ray Gibson Rawn Pritchard Contra Costa County, Local 1230 Tom Lueder South San Francisco Firefighters Los Angeles County Firefighters San Ramon Valley Firefighters Jennifer Abrahamson Local 1507 Local 1014 Local 3546 Robert Eason Alex Mathews Patrick Neil Sr. Richard Dennin Ronald Bozarth Danielle Bell Gerald Goss Stockton Firefighters Local 456 Victor Caldwell Jon Bell Russell Greenlaw Eldon Parker, II Bradley Pieraldi David Macedo Ronald Conway Karen (Straub) Kiiskinen Arnold Pehlke Torrance Fire Fighters Local 1138 Thomas Little Bruce Kingham William Rabska Herbert Soares, Jr. Oceanside Firefighters Julian (Mack) Oetting James Tollefson Ronda Ross-Leen Jack Walker Leo Palumbo Dave Walizer Santa Barbara County Firefighters Ron Walker, Jr Association Local 3736 Kenneth Love Daniel Whitman Marin Professional Firefighters Association Local 2046 Daly City Firefighters Local 1879 Ontario Professional Fire Fighters United Firefighters of Local 1775 James Petersen John Roy Los Angeles City Local 112 Jim Hopkins Santa Clara City Fire Fighters Local 1171 Davis Firefighters Local 3494 Association Local 1430 Clifton Chandler Julian George Lawrence Martinez Kenneth Hamlin, Jr. Marty Eckhardt Dennis Grogan James Stephenson Michael Maloney Richard Jett Ralph Des Lauriers Rick Lebel Michael Lannen Modesto City Firefighters Santa Clara County Firefighters El Segundo Firefighters Oxnard Firefighters Vacaville Firefighters Association Association Local 1289 Local 1165 Association Local 3682 Local 3501 James Bradberry Douglas Allen Gary Preston Association Local 1684 William Gallaher Dennis Miller John Greenstreet Mary Brandeau Federal Firefighters, San Diego Local F-33 Ventura County Professional Phillip Lee Michael Eash Reynaldo Campos Roderick Thorp Thomas Waller Firefighters Association Local 1364 Lawrence Thompson Charles Sanfilippo Local 1186 Firefighters Palo Alto Professional Fire Fighters John Wade Robert Walton John Thompson Jennifer Kuret-Nadeau West Covina Fire Fighters Local 3226 Monterey Firefighters Santa Cruz City Firefighters Local 1716 Kevin Purnell Local 1319 Tim Bettencourt Larry Kliewer Association Local 3707 David Stepka Hayward Firefighters Local 1909 Eugenio Castillo Chris Miller Santa Rosa Firefighters Local 1401 Michael Hyde Kirk Napier Verne Avila Steve Montevago Daniel Lindsey Leland Taylor, III SILVER CIRCLE Mountain View Professional Torrance Fire Fighters Local 1138 Kern County Fire Fighters Local 1301 Alameda Firefighters Pasadena Fire Fighters Fire Fighters Local 1965 Robert Maag, Jr Gary Frank Local 689 Association Local 809 Clifford Del Carlo Breal Rowe Kevin Harper William Sowersby Larry Divan Robert Jonasson Mary Steiner George Welch Alhambra Firefighters Gerald Gardner Oakland/Alameda County United Firefighters of Charles Wimmer Association Local 1578 Piedmont Firefighters Firefighters Local 55 Los Angeles City Local 112 Livermore-Pleasanton Firefighters Paul Curtis Association Local 2683 John Dailey Russell Collier Local 1974 Robert Daugherty Martin Ensrud Patrick Dailey Barry Englestad Edward Boddington Berkeley Firefighters Redlands Professional Firefighters James Ready, III Jack Holman Raybert Thornton, Jr. Local 1227 Local 1354 Ontario Professional Fire Fighters Samuel Lostutter Long Beach Firefighters Clinton Beacham Rick Bullard Association Local 1430 Bruce Norman Association Local 372 John Frankel James Drabinski Dennis Wafford Steven Ventura Charles Lyon Malcolm Greene Joe Pompa, Jr Orange City Firefighters, Local 2384 Robert Young Los Angeles County Firefighters Melora Valentine Riverside City Firefighters Brian Ford Ventura City Firefighters Local 3431 Local 1014 Burbank Firefighters Local 778 Association Local 1067 Keith Marshall David Hilty Sheldon Bromberg Hans Jenner Felix Biggers Palm Springs Professional Firefighters Roger Morgenthaler James Holdridge, Jr CAL FIRE, Local 2881 John Jones Local 3601 West Covina Fire Fighters Local 3226 Kenneth Johnstone Kendal Bortisser Tedd Laycock Christopher Kramer Thomas Hazelleaf Richard Land James Laughlin Sacramento Area Fire Fighters Local 522 Palo Alto Professional Fire Fighters Edward Murrieta James Mortensen Charles Bader Local 1319 John Price James Wagner Ray Blow

CALIFORNIA PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS THIRD QUARTER | VOLUME 25 NO. 3 27 California Professional Firefighters Non-Profit Org. 1780 Creekside Oaks Drive U.S. Postage Sacramento, CA 95833 PAID Sacramento, CA Permit No. 1824

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