Monday, January 08, 2007
Q6 Footage of this morning's fire.
They happened to be there and set up to film the fire attack from the beginning.
Fire Press Release
ISSUING OFFICER: Mike Inman Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/8/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1702 W. Dean
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201
NARRATIVE: At 7:04 am on Monday January 8, 2007 the Spokane Fire Department responded to a report of a structure fire at 1702 W. Dean in Spokane Washington. Engine 3 was the first fire apparatus on scene and reported a large volume of fire coming out of the back of the unoccupied two story structure that was a remodeled house. Along with the fire attack crews did a search of the entire building and found nobody inside. Other crews assisted by ventilating the smoke and heat out of the building during the fire attack. A quick knock down of the fire was accomplished with no injuries reported for civilians or Firefighters. The fire was confined to the kitchen and another small room in the back of the building. There was heat and smoke damage to most of the 1st floor and smoke damage to the second floor. The fire is under investigation by the Fire Department investigators.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: Extensive damage to the kitchen, another room with heat and smoke damage throughout the 1st floor. Smoke damage to the 2nd floor.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 23
MUTUAL AID: None Given
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/8/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1702 W. Dean
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201
NARRATIVE: At 7:04 am on Monday January 8, 2007 the Spokane Fire Department responded to a report of a structure fire at 1702 W. Dean in Spokane Washington. Engine 3 was the first fire apparatus on scene and reported a large volume of fire coming out of the back of the unoccupied two story structure that was a remodeled house. Along with the fire attack crews did a search of the entire building and found nobody inside. Other crews assisted by ventilating the smoke and heat out of the building during the fire attack. A quick knock down of the fire was accomplished with no injuries reported for civilians or Firefighters. The fire was confined to the kitchen and another small room in the back of the building. There was heat and smoke damage to most of the 1st floor and smoke damage to the second floor. The fire is under investigation by the Fire Department investigators.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: Extensive damage to the kitchen, another room with heat and smoke damage throughout the 1st floor. Smoke damage to the 2nd floor.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 23
MUTUAL AID: None Given
Friday, January 05, 2007
Santa Float Video RIP
Well, the Season is pretty much over. I hope your Christmas and New Year was great!
About a week ago, I was forwarded an email from a member who said that an anonymous citizen complained about our Santa Float video. I was a bit puzzled, as I have received nothing but good comments about the video. I heard from you, Local 29 members, and from total strangers who really enjoyed it. They were very complimentary about the whole operation (again thanks to Stn 8) and they thought the video was funny and family-friendly. It received well over 600 viewings Again, there was nothing but positive feedback, except from this one member.
I offered to meet with the offended member and see if there was more to his offense than this video, or what offended him about it. I offered to meet with the “anonymous citizen.” Yet, my offer went unanswered. The citizen, to this day, remains anonymous. I have only heard through the grapevine that the complaining member was offended by the kazoo music, the musical flatulent noises and that, at times, Santa is wearing a scary clown mask. I don’t know if this is true because this person will not meet with me, or talk to me on the phone.
As the holidays are over, and frankly this is taking up too much of my time, I have decided to block the You Tube feed of the Santa Float video. I apologize to all of you who have been enjoying it. I also apologize to the families who have been enjoying it in Spokane and across the United States of America, but I suspect we’ve all moved on from Christmas. No, I don’t have any Easter videos planned yet.
Maybe a yearly Local 29 Santa Float video on YouTube would be a good idea every Christmas. We received a lot of good PR from this one. So, those of you who are video-inclined be thinking about that for next year.
Thanks for reading the blog and for your words of encouragement!
John
About a week ago, I was forwarded an email from a member who said that an anonymous citizen complained about our Santa Float video. I was a bit puzzled, as I have received nothing but good comments about the video. I heard from you, Local 29 members, and from total strangers who really enjoyed it. They were very complimentary about the whole operation (again thanks to Stn 8) and they thought the video was funny and family-friendly. It received well over 600 viewings Again, there was nothing but positive feedback, except from this one member.
I offered to meet with the offended member and see if there was more to his offense than this video, or what offended him about it. I offered to meet with the “anonymous citizen.” Yet, my offer went unanswered. The citizen, to this day, remains anonymous. I have only heard through the grapevine that the complaining member was offended by the kazoo music, the musical flatulent noises and that, at times, Santa is wearing a scary clown mask. I don’t know if this is true because this person will not meet with me, or talk to me on the phone.
As the holidays are over, and frankly this is taking up too much of my time, I have decided to block the You Tube feed of the Santa Float video. I apologize to all of you who have been enjoying it. I also apologize to the families who have been enjoying it in Spokane and across the United States of America, but I suspect we’ve all moved on from Christmas. No, I don’t have any Easter videos planned yet.
Maybe a yearly Local 29 Santa Float video on YouTube would be a good idea every Christmas. We received a lot of good PR from this one. So, those of you who are video-inclined be thinking about that for next year.
Thanks for reading the blog and for your words of encouragement!
John
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
Fire Press Release
ISSUING OFFICER: Ken Kirsch Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/2/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1924 E 1st
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP:
NARRATIVE: On 01/02/07 at approximately 0814 hrs units of the Spokane Fire Department responded to 1924 E. 1st upon report of a structure fire. Initial reports were that a trailer to the back of the above referenced address was on fire. First arriving Fire Department units found a trailer and wooden shed heavily involved in fire. The trailer and shed were in close proximity to a residential structure also on the property. Pre-connected hose lines were advanced to the fire area and the main body of fire was extinguished within about 15 minutes. Additional hose lines were positioned to protect other endangered structures including a garage, an adjacent residence, and a fence. A total of 23 firefighters on 9 trucks fought this blaze. Fire crews remained on the scene approximately 90 minutes to extinguish the fire and conduct overhaul operations. No injuries were reported to either firefighters or civilians.
PROBABLE CAUSE: City of Spokane Fire Investigators were requested to the scene to determine the cause of the fire. That investigation is currently on going and an exact cause is not yet known. For more information on the cause of this fire you can contact Mike Zambryski at 625-7052.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The fire was largely confined to a trailer and shed on the east side of this property. A nearby fence and a small portion of the exterior of the residence on the property were also damaged. Total dollar loss is approximately $1000.
DOLLAR LOSS: 1000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 23
MUTUAL AID: None Given
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/2/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1924 E 1st
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP:
NARRATIVE: On 01/02/07 at approximately 0814 hrs units of the Spokane Fire Department responded to 1924 E. 1st upon report of a structure fire. Initial reports were that a trailer to the back of the above referenced address was on fire. First arriving Fire Department units found a trailer and wooden shed heavily involved in fire. The trailer and shed were in close proximity to a residential structure also on the property. Pre-connected hose lines were advanced to the fire area and the main body of fire was extinguished within about 15 minutes. Additional hose lines were positioned to protect other endangered structures including a garage, an adjacent residence, and a fence. A total of 23 firefighters on 9 trucks fought this blaze. Fire crews remained on the scene approximately 90 minutes to extinguish the fire and conduct overhaul operations. No injuries were reported to either firefighters or civilians.
PROBABLE CAUSE: City of Spokane Fire Investigators were requested to the scene to determine the cause of the fire. That investigation is currently on going and an exact cause is not yet known. For more information on the cause of this fire you can contact Mike Zambryski at 625-7052.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The fire was largely confined to a trailer and shed on the east side of this property. A nearby fence and a small portion of the exterior of the residence on the property were also damaged. Total dollar loss is approximately $1000.
DOLLAR LOSS: 1000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 23
MUTUAL AID: None Given
Monday, January 01, 2007
Fire Press Release
ISSUING OFFICER: Mike Inman / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/1/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 5417 N. Cannon
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99208
NARRATIVE: At 1107 am the Spokane Fire Department dispatched one Pumper Ladder, one Ladder Truck, 3 Engines, a Rescue Unit and a Battalion Chief to 5417 N. Cannon on a detached garage fire. Upon arrival by the first apparatus the garage had heavy white smoke coming out of every opening. Access to the garage was quick and a fast knockdown of the fire was accomplished by Pumper Ladder 13. A light smoke had entered the house at this address with heavy smoke coming out of the roof vents of the house. A quick investigation into the house indicated that only smoke and no fire had extended to the house. The house is still livable with only a faint smoke smell. Upon talking with the owner it was determined that he had cleaned out a wood burning stove and stored the ashes in a plastic garbage can in the garage where the fire had started. The homeowner also indicated that the stove had not been used for 2 days prior to the cleaning and the ashes had been in the garage for just over 24 hours when the fire occurred. The Spokane Fire Department cannot stress enough the importance of properly disposing of ash cleaned out of a heating appliance. As in this case the wood burning stove had not been used for 2 days prior to the cleaning and it took another day after storing the ash in a flammable container before the fire occurred. You must store ashes in a noncombustible container such as metal and away from any other flammable material such as paper or wood. You should also do the storage outside of any building. Fortunately this fire occurred during the day and was immediately detected resulting in minimal damage to the garage but total damage to a few items stored in the vicinity of the plastic garbage can that ignited. Had this fire occurred at night and had more time build damage most likely would have been more extreme.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Wood burning stove ashes stored in a plasic garbage can inside a structure.
DAMAGE EXTENT: About a 16 square foot section of wall in the garage and some personal items stored in the vicinity of the fire.
DOLLAR LOSS: 1500
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 21
MUTUAL AID: None Given
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/1/2007
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 5417 N. Cannon
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99208
NARRATIVE: At 1107 am the Spokane Fire Department dispatched one Pumper Ladder, one Ladder Truck, 3 Engines, a Rescue Unit and a Battalion Chief to 5417 N. Cannon on a detached garage fire. Upon arrival by the first apparatus the garage had heavy white smoke coming out of every opening. Access to the garage was quick and a fast knockdown of the fire was accomplished by Pumper Ladder 13. A light smoke had entered the house at this address with heavy smoke coming out of the roof vents of the house. A quick investigation into the house indicated that only smoke and no fire had extended to the house. The house is still livable with only a faint smoke smell. Upon talking with the owner it was determined that he had cleaned out a wood burning stove and stored the ashes in a plastic garbage can in the garage where the fire had started. The homeowner also indicated that the stove had not been used for 2 days prior to the cleaning and the ashes had been in the garage for just over 24 hours when the fire occurred. The Spokane Fire Department cannot stress enough the importance of properly disposing of ash cleaned out of a heating appliance. As in this case the wood burning stove had not been used for 2 days prior to the cleaning and it took another day after storing the ash in a flammable container before the fire occurred. You must store ashes in a noncombustible container such as metal and away from any other flammable material such as paper or wood. You should also do the storage outside of any building. Fortunately this fire occurred during the day and was immediately detected resulting in minimal damage to the garage but total damage to a few items stored in the vicinity of the plastic garbage can that ignited. Had this fire occurred at night and had more time build damage most likely would have been more extreme.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Wood burning stove ashes stored in a plasic garbage can inside a structure.
DAMAGE EXTENT: About a 16 square foot section of wall in the garage and some personal items stored in the vicinity of the fire.
DOLLAR LOSS: 1500
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 21
MUTUAL AID: None Given
Monday, December 25, 2006
Dan Renner endorses Greg Borg for Local 29 President...
Brothers and Sisters,
First, I want to thank everyone for their support and encouragement during the campaign. Even though I came up short, I appreciated the opportunity to talk with everyone and hear your ideas and concerns. While I have disagreed with Greg Borg in the past as to the best way to do the business of Local 29, I have never doubted his passion for the Fire Service, and Local 29. From the Labor/Management table, to City Hall, to Olympia, Greg has been working on our behalf since before most of us were even on the job. In light of the challenges we are facing in the upcoming years(s), there is no question in my mind that Greg is the best choice, and deserves to remain at the helm of Local 29. Over the course of my campaign, I repeatedly stressed that I would have a learning curve if elected even after my years on the Executive Board, committees and the like. For someone to come in cold, at this crucial time for us, the learning curve would be even greater. In my opinion, that’s something we cannot risk. I support Greg Borg for re-election as President of Local 29, and would encourage everyone who voted for me initially to vote for Greg as well.
Dan Renner
First, I want to thank everyone for their support and encouragement during the campaign. Even though I came up short, I appreciated the opportunity to talk with everyone and hear your ideas and concerns. While I have disagreed with Greg Borg in the past as to the best way to do the business of Local 29, I have never doubted his passion for the Fire Service, and Local 29. From the Labor/Management table, to City Hall, to Olympia, Greg has been working on our behalf since before most of us were even on the job. In light of the challenges we are facing in the upcoming years(s), there is no question in my mind that Greg is the best choice, and deserves to remain at the helm of Local 29. Over the course of my campaign, I repeatedly stressed that I would have a learning curve if elected even after my years on the Executive Board, committees and the like. For someone to come in cold, at this crucial time for us, the learning curve would be even greater. In my opinion, that’s something we cannot risk. I support Greg Borg for re-election as President of Local 29, and would encourage everyone who voted for me initially to vote for Greg as well.
Dan Renner
Saturday, December 23, 2006
Fire Press Release
ISSUING OFFICER: BC Craig Cornelius
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/23/2006
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2812 W Mallon
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201
NARRATIVE: This morning, December 23, 2006 at 05:17 hours, the Spokane Fire Department responded to a reported house fire located at 2812 W Mallon.
Engine 3, the first fire company arrived within 5 minutes. Engine 3's Officer reported smoke showing from the east side of the second floor of a single family home. Fire crews verified that all family members had escaped the fire before attacking the fire. Fire crews immediately advanced pre-connected hose lines into the home. The fire, which started in the ceiling of the first floor extended up the home's exterior walls and into the attic area of the second floor. 28 Fire Fighters brought the fire under control within 20 minutes and the majority of the home and contents were saved.
Cold winter conditions contributed to the challenges at this fire. This was the second "working fire" during the night time hours where water from fire hydrants was brought into play. Dealing with wet, frozen hose and fire clothing is routine during these cold periods.
There were no injuries at this fire. The family, (two adults and one child) were alerted to smoke in the home by their child who was having difficulty sleeping. The child's parents had invested in their families' safety by recently servicing the home's smoke detectors. These detectors did eventually activate and would have warned the family of the fire. Old electrical wiring in the home's ceiling appears to have been the cause of this fire.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Old electrical wiring.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Ceiling and Walls first and second floors.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 28
MUTUAL AID: None Given
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/23/2006
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2812 W Mallon
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201
NARRATIVE: This morning, December 23, 2006 at 05:17 hours, the Spokane Fire Department responded to a reported house fire located at 2812 W Mallon.
Engine 3, the first fire company arrived within 5 minutes. Engine 3's Officer reported smoke showing from the east side of the second floor of a single family home. Fire crews verified that all family members had escaped the fire before attacking the fire. Fire crews immediately advanced pre-connected hose lines into the home. The fire, which started in the ceiling of the first floor extended up the home's exterior walls and into the attic area of the second floor. 28 Fire Fighters brought the fire under control within 20 minutes and the majority of the home and contents were saved.
Cold winter conditions contributed to the challenges at this fire. This was the second "working fire" during the night time hours where water from fire hydrants was brought into play. Dealing with wet, frozen hose and fire clothing is routine during these cold periods.
There were no injuries at this fire. The family, (two adults and one child) were alerted to smoke in the home by their child who was having difficulty sleeping. The child's parents had invested in their families' safety by recently servicing the home's smoke detectors. These detectors did eventually activate and would have warned the family of the fire. Old electrical wiring in the home's ceiling appears to have been the cause of this fire.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Old electrical wiring.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Ceiling and Walls first and second floors.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 28
MUTUAL AID: None Given
City councilmember submissions regarding Greg Borg...
“Greg spells out the issues in terms we all can understand. I appreciate his straight talk and input.” Councilman Bob Apple
“I am impressed with his presentations to City Council. He is an informed communicator and I, as a new council member appreciate that.” Nancy McLaughlin, Council Member
“I have the greatest respect for Mr. Borg. He is a man of integrity and an excellent communicator. I know that I will get the truth from Greg when I ask him about an issue.” Al French, Councilman
“I have always appreciated the way in which Lt. Borg presents Fire Department issues and his direct communications with the council.” Councilwoman Mary Verner
“I am impressed with his presentations to City Council. He is an informed communicator and I, as a new council member appreciate that.” Nancy McLaughlin, Council Member
“I have the greatest respect for Mr. Borg. He is a man of integrity and an excellent communicator. I know that I will get the truth from Greg when I ask him about an issue.” Al French, Councilman
“I have always appreciated the way in which Lt. Borg presents Fire Department issues and his direct communications with the council.” Councilwoman Mary Verner
Fire Press Release
ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Joel Fielder
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/22/2006
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 921 North Ash
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP:
NARRATIVE: On December 22, 2006, the Spokane Fire Department responded at approximately11.40 PM to 921 North Ash. The first crew on-scene reported smoke showing at the back of a 2-story, wood framed apartment building extending from the main floor to the roof. Fire fighters found the fire in a concealed crawl space located at the back of the structure. The fire had vented through an opening in the foundation and was extending up the vinyl siding to the second floor when it was extinguished. Additional fire crews completed search and rescue, ventilation and salvage and overhaul. The fire was brought under control within 30 minutes and there were no reported injuries to the occupants or firefighters. Eight fire companies with 26 firefighters responded to this fire and were on scene for approximately 2 hours. The Spokane Fire Department would like to take this opportunity to stress the importance of working Smoke Detectors in your home as they played a vital role in alerting the occupant of this apartment who was home at the time of the fire.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is under investigation by Fire Investigators Lieutenant Greg McClatchey and Captain Kevin Smathers and they may be contacted at 625-7053.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Fire damage was confined to the exterior siding on the north side of the structure and the crawl space in the basement with smoke damage through out the rest of the structure
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 26
MUTUAL AID: None Given
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/22/2006
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 921 North Ash
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP:
NARRATIVE: On December 22, 2006, the Spokane Fire Department responded at approximately11.40 PM to 921 North Ash. The first crew on-scene reported smoke showing at the back of a 2-story, wood framed apartment building extending from the main floor to the roof. Fire fighters found the fire in a concealed crawl space located at the back of the structure. The fire had vented through an opening in the foundation and was extending up the vinyl siding to the second floor when it was extinguished. Additional fire crews completed search and rescue, ventilation and salvage and overhaul. The fire was brought under control within 30 minutes and there were no reported injuries to the occupants or firefighters. Eight fire companies with 26 firefighters responded to this fire and were on scene for approximately 2 hours. The Spokane Fire Department would like to take this opportunity to stress the importance of working Smoke Detectors in your home as they played a vital role in alerting the occupant of this apartment who was home at the time of the fire.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is under investigation by Fire Investigators Lieutenant Greg McClatchey and Captain Kevin Smathers and they may be contacted at 625-7053.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Fire damage was confined to the exterior siding on the north side of the structure and the crawl space in the basement with smoke damage through out the rest of the structure
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 26
MUTUAL AID: None Given
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Greg Borg Letter
To all my brothers and sisters,
Here we are, a few days from Christmas and the election is not over yet! Never before in my 31 years as a firefighter and 29 years of union involvement have I seen a tie in an election. This says a lot about your mood and thinking. Thank you for the reality check.
But first, a big thanks to all of you who have trusted me with your vote. I have talked with Doug Bacon and Dan Renner to get their input about what people are telling them. Thanks to them for their insights and their endorsements for my reelection. I have also talked to many of you during this campaign process about your concerns. This job of union president is never easy, and when decisions are made many may be happy with the result, but some are not. I have strived to do my best for everyone; that is my job as union president. It is also important to protect the minority’s view and make sure they are respectfully heard. In six years of decisions, I have made some mistakes and perhaps not followed through for the minority view when I should have. Needless to say, I have learned a lot in the past two months of campaigning. Thank you.
With your support, together we can fix the things that you want fixed and foster better communication to make job improvements for all of us. I have heard your worries and unease, and I am making the adjustments that I need to make.
The elections committee is mailing the ballots Friday the 22nd, so we can have the election complete by the January 9th union meeting.
I will be in the office over the next two weeks. If you need anything or have ideas, please call or stop by.
Merry Christmas to you and your families. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas and a happy New Year!
In unity, Greg
Here we are, a few days from Christmas and the election is not over yet! Never before in my 31 years as a firefighter and 29 years of union involvement have I seen a tie in an election. This says a lot about your mood and thinking. Thank you for the reality check.
But first, a big thanks to all of you who have trusted me with your vote. I have talked with Doug Bacon and Dan Renner to get their input about what people are telling them. Thanks to them for their insights and their endorsements for my reelection. I have also talked to many of you during this campaign process about your concerns. This job of union president is never easy, and when decisions are made many may be happy with the result, but some are not. I have strived to do my best for everyone; that is my job as union president. It is also important to protect the minority’s view and make sure they are respectfully heard. In six years of decisions, I have made some mistakes and perhaps not followed through for the minority view when I should have. Needless to say, I have learned a lot in the past two months of campaigning. Thank you.
With your support, together we can fix the things that you want fixed and foster better communication to make job improvements for all of us. I have heard your worries and unease, and I am making the adjustments that I need to make.
The elections committee is mailing the ballots Friday the 22nd, so we can have the election complete by the January 9th union meeting.
I will be in the office over the next two weeks. If you need anything or have ideas, please call or stop by.
Merry Christmas to you and your families. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas and a happy New Year!
In unity, Greg
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Newsletter On Hold...
Valued Readers,
This afternoon, Greg talked to me about the newsletter. We had planned on getting it out today along with news of who won the election. He had felt that it was important to wait until the end of the election so he wouldn't have an unfair electoral advantage speaking as president in the usual "President's Message." So today was to be the day. But now, it looks like it'll be January before the newsletter comes out - unless there's another tie!
So, even though neither Greg nor Chris won yesterday, there was one winner - your newsletter editor - with yet another reprieve. Happy Holidays! Another Mexican huevo nog - and don't skimp on the tequilla this time!!
Cheers,
John
This afternoon, Greg talked to me about the newsletter. We had planned on getting it out today along with news of who won the election. He had felt that it was important to wait until the end of the election so he wouldn't have an unfair electoral advantage speaking as president in the usual "President's Message." So today was to be the day. But now, it looks like it'll be January before the newsletter comes out - unless there's another tie!
So, even though neither Greg nor Chris won yesterday, there was one winner - your newsletter editor - with yet another reprieve. Happy Holidays! Another Mexican huevo nog - and don't skimp on the tequilla this time!!
Cheers,
John
Doug Bacon endorses Greg Borg for Local 29 President...
Brothers & Sisters,
I had planned to stay out of this and maybe my opinion doesn't matter to any of you. If it does, this is what I think.
Chris is energetic & willing to learn, but there really is an awful lot to learn and little time to learn it. Greg has spent almost his entire firefighting career working for the betterment of firefighters. Chris is the "outsider" with many new and interesting ideas and a willingness for "outside" opinions, but no experience in dealing with the Administration & City as a negotiator. Greg hasn’t always appeared to listen to “outside" opinions, but he tells me that this will definitely change. Chris's inexperience in how the union "works" will mean it has to take him some time to learn the rules, as we do have to follow the rules of the State of Washington, the WSCFF, the IAFF and the other labor organizations we belong to. Greg knows what a Union is and how it works. If Chris is elected, can he get things done, I’m just not sure he can. If Greg is reelected will he continue his way of doing things, he tells me that things will change. That is really the question, is it time for new leadership. I think it is time for a new leadership style. Greg brings the experience to find the way to change things. This election will not give either one of them a "mandate" and I truly hope the winner realizes this! The bottom line is that I believe Greg will be able to better lead this Union with our help. If Greg takes this opportunity to reach out to the disaffected and encourages everyone on this job to communicate their thoughts and ideas to the Union, we can make progressive changes to this Union and improved benefits for us.
Doug Bacon
I had planned to stay out of this and maybe my opinion doesn't matter to any of you. If it does, this is what I think.
Chris is energetic & willing to learn, but there really is an awful lot to learn and little time to learn it. Greg has spent almost his entire firefighting career working for the betterment of firefighters. Chris is the "outsider" with many new and interesting ideas and a willingness for "outside" opinions, but no experience in dealing with the Administration & City as a negotiator. Greg hasn’t always appeared to listen to “outside" opinions, but he tells me that this will definitely change. Chris's inexperience in how the union "works" will mean it has to take him some time to learn the rules, as we do have to follow the rules of the State of Washington, the WSCFF, the IAFF and the other labor organizations we belong to. Greg knows what a Union is and how it works. If Chris is elected, can he get things done, I’m just not sure he can. If Greg is reelected will he continue his way of doing things, he tells me that things will change. That is really the question, is it time for new leadership. I think it is time for a new leadership style. Greg brings the experience to find the way to change things. This election will not give either one of them a "mandate" and I truly hope the winner realizes this! The bottom line is that I believe Greg will be able to better lead this Union with our help. If Greg takes this opportunity to reach out to the disaffected and encourages everyone on this job to communicate their thoughts and ideas to the Union, we can make progressive changes to this Union and improved benefits for us.
Doug Bacon
Fire Press Release
ISSUING OFFICER: Mike Inman / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/20/2006
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 5807 N. Division Apt. 32
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99207
NARRATIVE: At 12:51 am December 20, 2006 the Spokane Fire Department responded to 5807 N. Division on an apartment fire. The first fire crew on scene reported light smoke coming from a 2nd floor apartment. Upon entering the apartment they were met with a kitchen fire and heavy smoke. Both adults in the apartment at the time got out on their own but the female resident complained of smoke inhalation and a tightness in her chest. She was transported to Holy Family Hospital in Spokane Washington. The Fire Department responded 3 Engine companies, 1 Ladder, 1 Pumper Ladder, 1 Rescue and 2 Battalion Chiefs. A quick knock down of the fire prevented it from getting into the structure and the fire was contained to contents of 1 apartment. Red Cross was called to assist the apartment resident as the apartment sustained significant heat and smoke damage. All other apartment residents in the building were allowed back into their apartments shortly after knocking the fire down. 25 Firefighters were on scene about 30 minutes when the fire was reported contained. There were no Firefighter injuries. Fire damage to the kitchen was significant with heat and smoke damage throughout the apartment. The fire will be looked at by an investigator but initial impression is a fire caused by combustible materials on the kitchen stove and a burner on. It cannot be overstressed the importance of not leaving a kitchen stove unattended when in use.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Combustables unattended on a kitchen stove that was turned on.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Significant damage to the kitchen, heat and smoke damage throughout the rest of the apartment. Confined to one apartment in the building
DOLLAR LOSS: 15,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 25
MUTUAL AID: None Given
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/20/2006
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 5807 N. Division Apt. 32
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99207
NARRATIVE: At 12:51 am December 20, 2006 the Spokane Fire Department responded to 5807 N. Division on an apartment fire. The first fire crew on scene reported light smoke coming from a 2nd floor apartment. Upon entering the apartment they were met with a kitchen fire and heavy smoke. Both adults in the apartment at the time got out on their own but the female resident complained of smoke inhalation and a tightness in her chest. She was transported to Holy Family Hospital in Spokane Washington. The Fire Department responded 3 Engine companies, 1 Ladder, 1 Pumper Ladder, 1 Rescue and 2 Battalion Chiefs. A quick knock down of the fire prevented it from getting into the structure and the fire was contained to contents of 1 apartment. Red Cross was called to assist the apartment resident as the apartment sustained significant heat and smoke damage. All other apartment residents in the building were allowed back into their apartments shortly after knocking the fire down. 25 Firefighters were on scene about 30 minutes when the fire was reported contained. There were no Firefighter injuries. Fire damage to the kitchen was significant with heat and smoke damage throughout the apartment. The fire will be looked at by an investigator but initial impression is a fire caused by combustible materials on the kitchen stove and a burner on. It cannot be overstressed the importance of not leaving a kitchen stove unattended when in use.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Combustables unattended on a kitchen stove that was turned on.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Significant damage to the kitchen, heat and smoke damage throughout the rest of the apartment. Confined to one apartment in the building
DOLLAR LOSS: 15,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 25
MUTUAL AID: None Given
Chris Phillips Letter
Brothers and Sisters,
I just wanted to thank you all for the overwhelming support during this never ending presidential campaign. Your letters, phone calls, and words of encouragement have been humbling to say the least. I appreciate all the challenging questions and the opportunity you’ve given me to discuss the things which are important to each of you. I hope I have been able to answer your questions thoroughly and thoughtfully while at the same time expressing my position in a satisfactory manner. If I've accomplished nothing else it’s clear that I provided at least 137 of you with some additional cannon fodder! I’ll be out of town for the holidays, but if anyone has a question or comment, please feel free to email me at local29phillips@yahoo.com. I should be able to check my email while out of town -- unless sand or beer manages to destroy my computer first! Tis the season, so again I wish to say thank you. I am proud to work alongside each and every one of you, and wish you and your family a safe and happy holiday season.
Fraternally,
Chris Phillips
I just wanted to thank you all for the overwhelming support during this never ending presidential campaign. Your letters, phone calls, and words of encouragement have been humbling to say the least. I appreciate all the challenging questions and the opportunity you’ve given me to discuss the things which are important to each of you. I hope I have been able to answer your questions thoroughly and thoughtfully while at the same time expressing my position in a satisfactory manner. If I've accomplished nothing else it’s clear that I provided at least 137 of you with some additional cannon fodder! I’ll be out of town for the holidays, but if anyone has a question or comment, please feel free to email me at local29phillips@yahoo.com. I should be able to check my email while out of town -- unless sand or beer manages to destroy my computer first! Tis the season, so again I wish to say thank you. I am proud to work alongside each and every one of you, and wish you and your family a safe and happy holiday season.
Fraternally,
Chris Phillips
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Presidential Election Results - A Tie!
137 to 137. Stay tuned for when the next election will be held.
Sunday, December 17, 2006
Fire Press Release
ISSUING OFFICER: Ken Kirsch Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/17/2006
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3908 E 2nd
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP: 99201
NARRATIVE: On 12/17/06 at approximately 0840 hrs units of the Spokane Fire Department responded to 3908 E 2nd upon report of a house on fire. First arriving units found heavy smoke coming from an approximately 900 square foot, one story, single family residence. These crews were also able to determine that all occupants of the house had exited safely prior to SFD arrival on scene. Fire Department crews advanced pre-connected hose-lines in the front door of the structure and extinguished a fire in the kitchen area. While the fire was being extinguished, others crew members laddered the roof of the building, set-up fans to ventilate smoke from the house, and established a water supply for engine operations. The fire was extinguished within approximately 10 minutes with overhaul of the fire area continuing for about the next hour. Damage to the structure included fire damage to the kitchen and an adjacent utility room, with smoke damage evident throughout.
A total of 34 firefighters on 12 apparatus responded to this incident. No injuries were reported to either firefighters or civilians.
Three tenants occupied this structure two adult males and one adult female. The structure is considered un-tenable at this time and the Red Cross is working to find housing for those displaced.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire has been determined to be a cooking fire. Cooking oil was being heated on the stove, it was left unattended, and the oil ignited. The fire then spread from the stove to surrounding materials in the kitchen.
It should be noted that the house did have a smoke detector but that the battery had been taken out so it could be replaced. Unfortunately the new battery had not been re-installed. This incident could have easily been a tragedy as the tenants were asleep at the time the incident started and were actually awakened by the smoke from the fire itself. Fortunately in this incident all tenants were able to safely exit the structure. The Spokane Fire Department would like to remind everyone that fire detectors do save lives but only if they are in proper working condition. Test all smoke detectors often and change the batteries often.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Damage to the structure included fire damage to the kitchen and an adjacent utility room, with smoke damage evident throughout.
DOLLAR LOSS: 30,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 34
MUTUAL AID: None Given
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/17/2006
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3908 E 2nd
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP: 99201
NARRATIVE: On 12/17/06 at approximately 0840 hrs units of the Spokane Fire Department responded to 3908 E 2nd upon report of a house on fire. First arriving units found heavy smoke coming from an approximately 900 square foot, one story, single family residence. These crews were also able to determine that all occupants of the house had exited safely prior to SFD arrival on scene. Fire Department crews advanced pre-connected hose-lines in the front door of the structure and extinguished a fire in the kitchen area. While the fire was being extinguished, others crew members laddered the roof of the building, set-up fans to ventilate smoke from the house, and established a water supply for engine operations. The fire was extinguished within approximately 10 minutes with overhaul of the fire area continuing for about the next hour. Damage to the structure included fire damage to the kitchen and an adjacent utility room, with smoke damage evident throughout.
A total of 34 firefighters on 12 apparatus responded to this incident. No injuries were reported to either firefighters or civilians.
Three tenants occupied this structure two adult males and one adult female. The structure is considered un-tenable at this time and the Red Cross is working to find housing for those displaced.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire has been determined to be a cooking fire. Cooking oil was being heated on the stove, it was left unattended, and the oil ignited. The fire then spread from the stove to surrounding materials in the kitchen.
It should be noted that the house did have a smoke detector but that the battery had been taken out so it could be replaced. Unfortunately the new battery had not been re-installed. This incident could have easily been a tragedy as the tenants were asleep at the time the incident started and were actually awakened by the smoke from the fire itself. Fortunately in this incident all tenants were able to safely exit the structure. The Spokane Fire Department would like to remind everyone that fire detectors do save lives but only if they are in proper working condition. Test all smoke detectors often and change the batteries often.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Damage to the structure included fire damage to the kitchen and an adjacent utility room, with smoke damage evident throughout.
DOLLAR LOSS: 30,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 34
MUTUAL AID: None Given
Friday, December 15, 2006
Bone Marrow Donor needed for a local child.
Hello All,
I would like to challenge all firefighters of Spokane County to step up to the plate and help out a local child who is in dire need. Four-month-old Caden Atchley has Severe Immune Deficiency Syndrome, and is in need of a bone marrow transplant in an attempt to save her life. After a nationwide search, they still haven't found a donor match. And that's where you come in. You could be the lucky match for Caden. For more info on her, go to KHQ.com and scroll down almost to the bottom.
On Thursday, the 21st of December at 10:00 a.m., the Inland Northwest Blood Center (INBC) will be at Spokane's Fire Station One. They will be gathering DNA samples from local area firefighters looking for a potential donor for Caden. All that is required is 20 minutes of your time to fill out paperwork (medical history), and a simple swab from the inside of your mouth.
If you wish to pick up your paperwork early, you can do so at the Inland Northwest Blood Center anytime or at Fire Station One, starting on Monday the 18th. For on-duty crews, Chief Schaeffer has approved you to rotate down on Thursday. Just let dispatch know. If you are unable to make it on Thursday, you can go to INBC anytime and identify yourself as a firefighter and they will give you the paperwork and take your sample.
In this time of giving, you may be lucky enough to give someone the ultimate present - the gift of life!
Kevin Haughton
City of Spokane Fire Department
Station 1 B
I would like to challenge all firefighters of Spokane County to step up to the plate and help out a local child who is in dire need. Four-month-old Caden Atchley has Severe Immune Deficiency Syndrome, and is in need of a bone marrow transplant in an attempt to save her life. After a nationwide search, they still haven't found a donor match. And that's where you come in. You could be the lucky match for Caden. For more info on her, go to KHQ.com and scroll down almost to the bottom.
On Thursday, the 21st of December at 10:00 a.m., the Inland Northwest Blood Center (INBC) will be at Spokane's Fire Station One. They will be gathering DNA samples from local area firefighters looking for a potential donor for Caden. All that is required is 20 minutes of your time to fill out paperwork (medical history), and a simple swab from the inside of your mouth.
If you wish to pick up your paperwork early, you can do so at the Inland Northwest Blood Center anytime or at Fire Station One, starting on Monday the 18th. For on-duty crews, Chief Schaeffer has approved you to rotate down on Thursday. Just let dispatch know. If you are unable to make it on Thursday, you can go to INBC anytime and identify yourself as a firefighter and they will give you the paperwork and take your sample.
In this time of giving, you may be lucky enough to give someone the ultimate present - the gift of life!
Kevin Haughton
City of Spokane Fire Department
Station 1 B
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Santa Float...
Had a very good time. I think there are sill slots available. Amaze your friends and neighbors. Wake up babies. Set dogs howling. Get flipped off by gangstas and sneered at by the police. The next day they will all wonder if it was just a yuletide dream.
Contact Station 8 to sign up!
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Firedog Contest...
Hi, Bill –
My name is Rachelle Lacroix. I am getting in touch with Local 29 on behalf of Circuit City and its brand new service, firedog, which has inspired a new nationwide “firedog Across America” contest to donate hundreds of thousands of dollars to America’s firefighters. Click on the following link to view the contest site, featuring Former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani: http://web.firedog.com/acrossamerica/details.aspx. We’d be thrilled if you could let Local 29 readers know about the contest so they can help raise money for America’s fire safety professionals and win great prizes.
Circuit City’s new service, firedog, is a one-stop shop for consumers’ technology needs: www.firedog.com. Circuit City’s firedog technicians install, optimize, repair, and make technology purchases simple so consumers don't have to waste time with piles of manuals and tricky cables.
To help commemorate and launch the new firedog service in a unique, cause-focused way, Circuit City developed the contest, “firedog Across America,” which will provide great donations and prizes to local firehouses and the consumers that nominate them!
The contest works like this:
http://web.firedog.com/acrossamerica/details.aspx
1.) Tell firedog Your Story
Tell firedog your personal story about how a local firehouse has demonstrated service to your community. If your story is chosen as one of 10 finalists, you will receive a $10,000 home “techover” from firedog and your fire station will receive a $20,000 donation.
2.) America Votes
Once the 10 finalist firehouses have been chosen, the stories will be posted on firedog.com and America will vote for their favorite.
3.) The Best Part, Everyone Wins
All of the finalist firehouses win. For every vote cast for a finalist firehouse, that finalist firehouse will receive a $1.00 donation (total donations based on voting for all 10 firehouses not to exceed $250,000). After 16 days, the station with the most votes will be the national grand-prize winner and receive an additional $100,000 donation!
The firedog Across America contest was launched last week. As part of the launch, Circuit City and firedog also presented $100,000 donations to both the FDNY Foundation, which supports New York City Fire Department initiatives, and the National Law Enforcement and Firefighters Children's Foundation for its efforts in helping children of law enforcement and firefighting personnel. Former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani and New York City Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta were on hand to receive the donations.
Again, we wanted to share information about the firedog Across America contest on Local 29 in hopes that you would let your readers know about it and help us honor and generate donations for America’s fire safety community. Please let us know if you decide to let your readers know about it and let me know if I can provide you with any other information!
Best,
Rachelle
Rachelle Lacroix
Fleishman-Hillard, for firedog
My name is Rachelle Lacroix. I am getting in touch with Local 29 on behalf of Circuit City and its brand new service, firedog, which has inspired a new nationwide “firedog Across America” contest to donate hundreds of thousands of dollars to America’s firefighters. Click on the following link to view the contest site, featuring Former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani: http://web.firedog.com/acrossamerica/details.aspx. We’d be thrilled if you could let Local 29 readers know about the contest so they can help raise money for America’s fire safety professionals and win great prizes.
Circuit City’s new service, firedog, is a one-stop shop for consumers’ technology needs: www.firedog.com. Circuit City’s firedog technicians install, optimize, repair, and make technology purchases simple so consumers don't have to waste time with piles of manuals and tricky cables.
To help commemorate and launch the new firedog service in a unique, cause-focused way, Circuit City developed the contest, “firedog Across America,” which will provide great donations and prizes to local firehouses and the consumers that nominate them!
The contest works like this:
http://web.firedog.com/acrossamerica/details.aspx
1.) Tell firedog Your Story
Tell firedog your personal story about how a local firehouse has demonstrated service to your community. If your story is chosen as one of 10 finalists, you will receive a $10,000 home “techover” from firedog and your fire station will receive a $20,000 donation.
2.) America Votes
Once the 10 finalist firehouses have been chosen, the stories will be posted on firedog.com and America will vote for their favorite.
3.) The Best Part, Everyone Wins
All of the finalist firehouses win. For every vote cast for a finalist firehouse, that finalist firehouse will receive a $1.00 donation (total donations based on voting for all 10 firehouses not to exceed $250,000). After 16 days, the station with the most votes will be the national grand-prize winner and receive an additional $100,000 donation!
The firedog Across America contest was launched last week. As part of the launch, Circuit City and firedog also presented $100,000 donations to both the FDNY Foundation, which supports New York City Fire Department initiatives, and the National Law Enforcement and Firefighters Children's Foundation for its efforts in helping children of law enforcement and firefighting personnel. Former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani and New York City Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta were on hand to receive the donations.
Again, we wanted to share information about the firedog Across America contest on Local 29 in hopes that you would let your readers know about it and help us honor and generate donations for America’s fire safety community. Please let us know if you decide to let your readers know about it and let me know if I can provide you with any other information!
Best,
Rachelle
Rachelle Lacroix
Fleishman-Hillard, for firedog
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