CPF

 Vallejo's residents are paying the price for their city's bid to politicize the bankruptcy courts. According to the Associated Press, about one in six Vallejo police officers have already left the department in the last year, and crime is on the rise. Vallejo has summarily rejected all contract concessions, and has, instead, asked the courts to take the unprecedented step of breaking all its contracts.

A CPF Trustee and proud member of Long Beach Firefighters Local 372 has won decisive re-election as the IAFF Western Trustee. Tony Mejia won an overwhelming vote during the IAFF Convention in Las Vegas this week. Mejia was first elected IAFF Western Trustee in February, winning a vote to complete the term of Trustee Bob Greenwood, who died in January. 

As part of its unprecedented bankruptcy filing, Vallejo has petitioned to have all of its labor contracts voided by the bankruptcy court. If allowed to stand, Vallejo’s attack on its own employees would send shock waves throughout the labor movement, setting the stage for a cascade of tactical “bankruptcies”, all filed with the sole purpose of reneging on their employees. 

Even as it faces one of the most aggressive management attacks, Vallejo Firefighters Local 1186 has been able to count on united and active labor support. This week, Local 1186 was recognized for its part in creating that steadfast labor unity, winning the California Labor Federation's award for Outstanding Volunteer Mobilization.

For the residents of Paradise, east of Chico, July 11th looked almost exactly like June 11th -- fire raging on their doorstep, smoke darkening the skies, and first responders urging them to evacuate. As the Siege of 2008 enters its second month, crews from throughout California and the nation continue to battle the elements and fatigue to protect our state.

Nearly 1,000 people came together in San Rafael Tuesday to remember Southern Marin FD Deputy Chief Jeff Powers. The loyal member of Marin Professional Firefighters Local 1775 died June 26th of a heart attack while on duty at the firehouse.  

Fallen Newport Beach Firefighter Kevin Pryor was remembered Tuesday as a "Renaissance man" whose devotion to his job was enriched by a love of history and a gift for impressions. Pryor died June 15th shortly after returning from the Humboldt Fire. He was remembered by friends and fellow firefighters at a Memorial Service in Westlake Village.

Lawyers representing the city of Vallejo have asked the courts to validate their attempt to renege on commitments made to their employees, including their firefighters. In a filing before state bankruptcy court, the city sought the unprecedented step of canceling all of its collective bargaining agreements. 

CPF affiliates report success in their local election efforts. Whether it's a city council or supervisor's race or assisting in the election of a local legislators, CPF locals find that making their voices heard at election time helps insure their voices will be heard when public safety policy is made.