Congressman Larson addressing the delegates during the 2012 IAFF Legislative Conference
Congresswoman DeLauro Addressing the Ct. Delegation during the 2012 UPFFA Legislative Breakfast
Congressman Murphy Addressing the Ct. Delegation at the 2012 UPFFA Legislative Breakfast
Senator Blumenthal Addressing the Ct. Delegation during the UPFFA Legislative Breakfast
October 24-26, 2011: 17th UPFFA Biennial Convention
October 24-26, 2011: 17th UPFFA Biennial Convention
October 24-26, 2011: 17th UPFFA Biennial Convention
October 24-26, 2011: 17th UPFFA Biennial Convention
October 24-26, 2011: 17th UPFFA Biennial Convention
October 24-26, 2011: 17th UPFFA Biennial Convention
Workers' Comp Bill Passes House
House Bill 5233 An Act Concerning Workers' Compensation for Fire Fighters (Post Traumatic Stress Syndrone) has passed the House of Representatives today by a vote of 148-3, a GREAT bipartisan accomplishment on a Workers' Compensation bill!!! THANK YOU TO ALL THOSE WHO MADE CALLS TO THEIR LEGISLATORS AND TO LEADERSHIP IN THE HOUSE...148-3 IS THE RESULT OF YOUR EFFORTS. Read More...
working together through collaboration on common interests toward the future of the fire service in connecticut at
ANTHONY’S LAKE CLUB
DANBURY, CT.
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
for
Fire Chiefs, Local Presidents, Executive Board Members & Stewards
8:30-9:30 REGISTRATION & CONTINTENTAL BREAKFAST
9:30-12:00 MORNING SESSION
12:00-1:00 LUNCH
1:00-3:30 AFTERNOON SESSION
BE PART OF THE DISCUSSION: Be sure that your members are part of the major discussion on the current status and future of the Connecticut Fire Service;
This is not a seminar but a round table discussion of the leaders of
Connecticut Fire Service so be sure your membership is represented;
It is recommended that each local president and members of your locals Executive Boards and Negotiating Committees attend. It is also recommended that each local discuss with your Department Chief to invite a rank and file member from your local to attend this important event and be part of the Discussion.
The 12th Annual Connecticut United Ride will take place on Sunday, September 9, 2012. The CT United Ride is the largest and most attended 9-11 memorial ride in the region.
On behalf of the Officers, Executive Board and Staff of the Uniformed Professional Fire Fighters of Connecticut I would like to thank the leadership and entire membership of our Connecticut affiliated IAFF locals for your continued support.
Over the years our officers, staff and legal counsel have worked hard to support you and protect your benefits. We have developed good solid working relationships with elected officials in our cities and towns across the state, in our state capitol and with our entire congressional delegation in Washington DC.
We have worked together with the Connecticut Fire Chiefs, the Joint Counsel of Connecticut Fire Service Organizations and other Labor Organizations in our state. But now is the time not to let our guard down. In 2012 we will be faced with continued attacks on our profession on the local, state and national arenas and we must continue to be strong and united. View Letter
The Stratford Professional Firefighters Burn Foundation, partnering with the New London Firefighters Burn Foundation, the Uniformed Professional Firefighters Association of Connecticut and the Bridgeport Hospital Foundation are undertaking a fundraising campaign to support the cost of building a suite within the Connecticut Burn Center.
This suite will afford a family the opportunity to stay within this center where they can stay close to their loved one as they are being treated.
RETURN COMPLETED FORMS TO THE U.P.F.F.A. AT THE ADDRESS LISTED ON APPLICATION.
DO NOT RETURN TO THE D.M.V. AS THEY CANNOT PROCESS THESE FORMS.
If you have any questions please contact: Paul J. Rapanault at 203.934.0105
∞∞∞∞
ATTENTION MEMBERS
Dear UPFFA Member:
I wanted to introduce you to an exciting new program that we have developed with Discount Power, a licensed electricity provider in Connecticut. As a locally owned and operated company that has enjoyed significant success over the past few years, they believe it is important to support the communities that have helped create that success and that’s why they’ve created the "You Save, We All Win" program.
The You Save, We All Win Program is designed to help community, education and nonprofit based groups with on-going support for their programs. We have partnered with Discount Power and they will provide monthly contributions to help us fund in part:
Emergency Relief Fund for Firefighters and their Families in times of need
Muscular Dystrophy Association
UPFFA Scholarship Fund
UPFFA Health and Safety Committee
Continuing Health and Safety Education for Fire Fighters
For every customer that enrolls with Discount Power we will receive a contribution for as long as that customer remains with Discount Power. You and your friends save on your electric bills and the UPFFA wins some much needed support for our worthwhile programs. "You Save, We All Win."
It’s really that simple. Once established, Discount Power tracks all of our usage, makes the contributions directly to the UPFFA account and provides an on line report detailing each month’s contribution.
Please contact Kevin Jannetty at 203-982-4866, or logon to www.upffapower.org or call Discount Power at 877-259-7693 for details. Just mention the name of your group to our Customer Service representative and they’ll take it from there. Start saving today and help the UPFFA win tomorrow!
Keep informed of the crucial issues that affect you and your family’s future. As an active member and future retiree you need to know what is happening in departments across our state and at our State Capitol. Join our email and telephone notification network for important bulletins, information and future email newsletter. See what the IAFF-UPFFA is doing to protect your benefits and the services we provide to you as an IAFF-UPFFA member on a daily basis. To Register on the UPFFA Web Site, it's easy, Just Go To the "Member Log-In" section of the site (top Right Column in and follow the directions).
If you are a Member of Local 786 and are having trouble accessing our web site, please contact
Peter S. Carozza, Jr., President of the Uniformed Professional Fire Fighters of Connecticut, IAFF has been elected to the Executive Board of the National Conference of Public Employees Retirement Systems (NCPERS) at its National Conference on May 9 in New York City.
NCPERS is the largest trade association for public pension funds, representing more than 500 funds throughout the United States and Canada.
Founded in 1941, NCPERS is the principal trade association working to promote and protect pensions by focusing on Advocacy, Research and Education for the benefit of public sector pensions
HB 5233 AAC Workers' Compensation for Fire Fighters passed the Senate on CONSENT 10 minutes before the 2012 Session of the General Assembly gaveled closed. The Post Traumatic Stress Disease bill received overwhelming support from both the House and the Senate. The House vote was 148-3 while the Senate passed the bill without objection. The impressive vote totals were in spite of significant opposition to the bill from several different organizations. Much credit goes to those members who called their Legislators and Legislative Leaders prior to the vote to encourage support for the bill.
In addition, the last bill to pass the House of Representatives this year was the Bonding Package Bill. It provides for 28.2 million dollars in bonding money for the states regional fire schools.
Bills that would have adversely affected Binding Arbitration were defeated as was a bill that would have dramatically increased employee contributions to the MERS pension plan.
UPFFA of Ct. President Peter S. Carozza, Jr., makes a presentation to Bob Smith, President of Fairfield Firefighters Association Local 1426, on Saturday, April 28, 2012 to mark the local's 50th Anniversary
Mark Sanders, President, and Mark Horton, Ohio Professional Fire Fighters, presents an award to Peter S. Carozza, Jr., President, UPFFA of Ct., for the assistance of the Uniformed Professional Fire Fighters of Connecticut and its affiliated locals during the recent labor issues facing the Professional Fire Fighters of Ohio.
Locals affiliated with the Uniformed Professional Fire Fighters of Connecticut attended the IAFF Legislative Conference in Washington DC March 25-29, 2012
Delegates from Bridgeport, Local 834, Danbury, Local 801, Fairfield, Local 1426, Greenwich, Local 1042, Hamden, Local 2687, Hartford, Local 760, New Britain, Local 972, New Haven, Local 825, Stratford, Local 998 and West Haven, Local 1198. Listened to dozens of speakers on the current political climate in our country and the issues affecting Fire Fighters.
The UPFFA of Ct then hosted our annual Legislative Breakfast in the US Capitol. Attending were General President Harold Schaitberger, General Secretary Treasurer Tom Miller, Senator Lieberman, Senator Blumenthal, Representatives Larson, Courtney, DeLauro, Himes and Murphy.
This year maintains our record of 100 per cent attendance of our entire Ct Congressional Delegation to our breakfast.
After the breakfast delegates spent the entire day meeting with staff members to continue their lobbying efforts. The day ended with an IAFF Reception.
Once again thank you to the above mentioned locals for attending and lobbying for Connecticut Fire Fighters and working as a team to protect current and future Fire Fighters in our state. Only working together with one united voice will we succeed.
(For Additional Photos Visit The Photo Gallery)
Thank you
Peter S. Carozza, Jr.
President, UPFFA of Connecticut
2012 New England Walk for Burn Awareness
March 21, 2012 – Join burn survivors, supporters and fire fighters from across New England on Saturday, May 19, 2012, for the 3rd Annual New England Walk for Burn Awareness. The walk, to be held at Castle Island in South Boston, is a fundraising event to help support burn-injury victims. Read More...
The Archdiocese of Hartford’s Fourth Annual Blue Mass for fire, police and EMS personnel will be held on Sunday, May 6, 2012, at 11 a.m. at the Cathedral of Saint Joseph in Hartford, CT. Visit www.archdioceseofhartford.org. Please post the attached poster in your fire stations and encourage participation.
Local Presidents are asked to contact Holly King via email: Holly.King@ct.govwith the name(s) of any active firefighter(s) that passed away from April 1, 2011 to the present as well as the name of any firefighter Line of Duty Deaths your department sustained.
In emailing Holly King, please copy the UPFFA via ldemici@aol.com
This information is requested no later than noon on Thursday, March 8th. In addition, contact information, address & phone number, for the next of kin of each deceased firefighter is requested so the family may sent an invitation to participate in the Blue Mass.
On behalf of the Officers, Executive Board and Staff of the Uniformed Professional Fire Fighters of Connecticut I would like to thank the leadership and entire membership of our Connecticut affiliated IAFF locals for your continued support.
St. Vincent’s SWIM Across the Sound marks its 25th anniversary this year! This milestone year would not be possible without the financial support or volunteer commitment of friends like you.
Your generous contributions directly provide 40 different cancer education, screening and support services to our community, ranging from prevention to survivorship programs. The SWIM offers a significant safety net to our region by providing one-on-one financial assistance to cancer patients. We are often the charity of last resort for people with cancer in our community who would otherwise have no place else to turn to help pay mortgage/rent payments, purchase prostheses, wigs, food, etc. Last year alone, the SWIM served over 20,000 individuals. For more information about this year’s Swim, please go to www.swimacrossthesound.org.
We ask for your help so the SWIM can keep up with the growing demand for our cancer services. On behalf of the patients we help, thank you for Clicking here to make a tax-deductible contribution in celebration of SWIM Across the Sound’s 25th anniversary year.
With gratitude,
Ronald J. Bianchi
President and CEO, St. Vincent’s Foundation
If you have already made a donation, thank you for your support!
President Bob Smith of Fairfield Firefighters Local 1426 presents a check to Steve Lupinacci, President of Stratford Professional Firefighters Burn Foundation, for $5,000 for the Connecticut Burn Center at Bridgeport Hospital. The money was raised during the Local’s 5th Annual Santa Ride that was held in December. The Burn Center is currently undergoing a major renovation and the donation will be used towards building a suite for families so they can be close to their loved ones during treatment.
Workers Memorial Day – April 28th - is a day to remember those who have died in the workplace and to recommit to the fight for healthy and safe working conditions. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the tragic L’Ambiance Plaza disaster that killed 26 construction workers. We hope that you will join us for the 25th anniversary event on April 23rd and that you will attend the Workers Memorial events on April 28th. The details of these events are listed below.
The Connecticut AFL-CIO wants to remember workers who have died in workplace accidents in the past year and we do so by reading out the names as part of the ceremony. If you know of any union members who have passed away and whom you think we should acknowledge at the Connecticut AFL-CIO’s Workers Memorial Day, please contact Janeen Olsen at 860-571-6191 x226 or you may respond to this email. If you are interested in buying a wreath with your union’s name on the ribbon that will be placed at the memorial in Bushnell Park, please feel free to contact Janeen Olsen for information on how to make the arrangements with the florist.
Connecticut AFL-CIO Workers Memorial Day Ceremonies
Saturday, April 28 - 11:00 AM
State Capitol North Steps and march to Bushnell Park Workers Memorial
Southeastern Labor Council, AFL-CIO Memorial Day Ceremonies
Saturday, April 28 - 8:00 AM
Workers Memorial in Washington Park, Groton
L’Ambiance Plaza 25th Anniversary Commemoration
Monday, April 23 - 11:00 AM
Bridgeport City Hall, Bridgeport
On behalf of the Officers, Executive Board and Staff of the Uniformed Professional Fire Fighters of Connecticut I would like to thank the leadership and entire membership of our Connecticut affiliated IAFF locals for your continued support. VIEW LETTER Vi Veiwwwiwoirewoiu
AFL-CIO Launches Campaign, TV Ads in Austin
to Connect Americans through Shared Values around Work
Effort includes innovative new website www.workconnectsusall.org
http://youtu.be/JQQCoxcwgeY
Austin, Texas – “Work Connects Us All” is the message of a new campaign from the AFL-CIO launched today in Austin. Read More...
You are hereby notified that pursuant to the provisions of the Constitution of the International Association of Fire Fighters, the 51st Convention of the International Association of Fire Fighters will be held at the Sheraton Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, beginning at 9:00 a.m., Monday, July 23, 2012, and will remain in session day-to-day until the business of the Convention is completed.
Convention information, including the Convention Call (login required), a legal memorandum of convention guidelines, a listing of important dates as well as convention fast facts is available here.
IAFF Scores Huge Congressional Victory
December 17, 2011 – In one of its final actions in 2011, Congress has passed an Omnibus Appropriations Bill that makes more than $742 million in Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grants available to struggling communities and extends the “SAFER waivers” for Fiscal Years 2011 and 2012. Read More...
Fred Garrity, Chairman UPFFA United Ride, Rueben Bradford, Commissioner of Public Safety State of Connecticut, Bernard Sullivan, President Hundred Club of Connecticut, Peter S Carozza, Jr., President Uniformed Professional Fire Fighters of Connecticut attend the Hundred Club meeting and presented a check for 10,500.00, President Carozza is a member of the Hundred Club Board of Directors.
UPFFA of Ct. President Peter S. Carozza, Jr., Michael Passero, President of the New London Connecticut City Council and Rocco Basilica, President of Local 1522, IAFF New London Fire Fighters after the oath of office was administered to the Mayor, City Council and Board of Education on Monday December 5, 2011.
Michael Passero is a Fire Fighter with the New London Fire Department Local 1522, IAFF and the new President of the City Council.
NIST and USFA Issue Report on SCBA Facepiece Lenses and Thermal Degradation
November 30, 2011 -- The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), with funding from the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), has released its final report on a study conducted to determine at what temperatures and conditions self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) facepiece lenses melt or degrade. Read More...
On November 11, 2011 Fred Garrity, Ct. United Ride and Peter S. Carozza, Jr., President, UPFFA distributed $38,500.00 to various Connecticut State, Local Fire, Police affiliates and the United Way from the 2011 Ct. United Ride.
Logan Caruso is the MDA Goodwill Ambassador from Wolcott, Ct., recently Logan and his family visited the Waterbury Fire Department for a tour of the fire station with members of the Waterbury Fire Fighters Union, Local 1339.
Ohio voters have delivered a resounding message to their governor – one that will likely reverberate across the nation in the coming months – soundly rejecting his effort to destroy collective bargaining for fire fighters and other public employees.
In a turnout that was heavy for an off-year ballot measure, Ohioans – by vote of 61 percent to 39 percent -- selected “No” on Issue 2, repealing Governor John Kasich’s signature reform measure that eliminated many rights of public employees – also known as Senate Bill 5.
The outcome in Ohio is not only a huge blow to extremist politicians who have launched anti-worker agendas -- defeating Issue 2 is also a momentum-shifting victory for the IAFF and other labor groups.
“The people of Ohio have spoken and John Kasich and those of his ilk can't help but notice," says IAFF General President Harold Schaitberger. “Senate Bill 5 in Ohio was an overreach by those who thought they could strip proud workers of their rights as Americans - that's why Ohioans resoundingly killed it.
"Maybe extremist politicians who try to take advantage of a tough economic time for our country by targeting the basic core values and rights of those who work for a living will finally start to work toward real solutions that move this country forward through cooperation and bipartisanship, because that's what the American people want and that's what this vote reinforced," adds Schaitberger.
IAFF members demonstrated their clear feelings in the astounding response on Facebook to the news:
"The people of Ohio are getting wise to these thug governors...."
"Strong work Brothers and Sisters of Ohio! Thank you from the rest of the country!!"
"Great victory for labor!! Let's take this momentum into 2012."
"From Cincinnati Local 48, thank you for all the support from the International and everyone outside Ohio. It was a hard-fought win, but it's just one win. This type of attack on unions and collective bargaining WILL continue throughout the country and we need to be very prepared for it."
"Congrats Ohio! Let's hope Wisconsin follows."
"Another battle won...now on to the next. Good job Ohio!"
"Well done, Ohio - now the rest of America needs to wake up and get with the game! Let's go back to Wisconsin and boot Walker out of the statehouse!"
"A victory for the working class. Union solidarity and the efforts of our brothers and sisters educating the public of the true nature of the Republican agenda won out over the scare tactics and the race to the bottom."
"Bravo! But keep the guard up. They'll be back for sure."
"Never give up! Congrats Ohio! You've got Kasich on the run and scared. The whole country is watching."
"Great job but, sadly, I think our livelihoods will continue to be attacked until the end of our lives. This is just round one, but we are off to a good start."
"Congrats brothers and sisters to a job well done. There will be more attacks, however, the point was made. The voters made the decision. Voters do not like dirty politics."
"This is a great victory for all public service workers! It helps restore some faith that there are still people in the public who support us. We as the working class need to band together to take down these crook politicians who are against us."
Though polls leading up to the election suggested Ohioans would vote to end SB 5, labor groups – including the IAFF – left nothing to chance. The IAFF contributed significant resources to the “Vote No on Issue 2” efforts, including a potent advertising and get-out-the-vote campaign. And, We Are Ohio, a coalition of AFL-CIO labor unions that the IAFF assisted, conducted a huge grassroots and media campaign to convince voters to Vote No on Issue 2.
“SB 5 was nothing short of a brazen effort to cripple labor’s influence in Ohio and give more power to deep-pocketed corporate donors,” says IAFF 8th District Vice President Paul Hufnagel.
"In Ohio, there are no standards or safety regulations that govern the job we do, so we rely on collective bargaining agreements to make sure we have a voice, and the vote demonstrates that citizens understand the importance of that fact,” says President of the Ohio Association of Professional Fire Fighters (OAPFF) Mark Sanders.
The IAFF has partnered with BLEVE Entertainment http://www.helpthegoodguys.com to raise money for the IAFF Fire Fighter Charitable Foundation which provides financial support to the families of Fire Fighters injured or killed in the line of duty. When Fire Fighters suffer burns, the IAFF Foundation works to improve the quality of life for these and the more than 500,000 burn survivors across North America whose lives are changed each year. When an IAFF member is killed in the line of duty, the IAFF Foundation provides support and assistance for the families and offers funding for children of the fallen to pursue post-secondary education.
The IAFF has created a video featuring ‘In Honor of Those Serving Us" by Randy Owen. Please watch this video and click the SHARE link under the video and share the video with your FACEBOOK friends.The video can be viewed here: http://youtu.be/tUJByOSspHM
If each of our 300,000 IAFF members took a couple of minutes and forwarded this email to ten friends--THREE MILLION PEOPLE would have the opportunity to view this video. If 25% of the viewer's purchase a CD--that will raise THREE MILLION DOLLARS for the FOUNDATION. Everyone wins---Our Friends receive a great CD and the Foundation Funds are replenished to support IAFF members.
Three Connecticut Locals Host 4th Successful Fire Ops
October 17, 2011 – Three Connecticut affiliates – Fairfield Local 1426, Westport Local 1198 and Stratford Local 998 –held a joint Fire Ops 101 at the Fairfield Regional Fire School. At the event, local decision makers and media learned about the challenges first responders face on a daily basis.
Participants included Fairfield Board of Finance Vice Chairman and First Selectman candidate Robert Bellitto Jr., Fairfield Representative Town Meeting (RTM) Moderator Jeffrey Steele (R-2) and Stratford Councilmen Dave Fuller (D-6) and John Dempsey (R-5), along with newspaper reporters Jason Bagley and Mike Lauterborn. The Fairfield RTM is an elected body of 50 residents who vote on the town budget, town ordinances and labor agreements.
“After going through the evolutions, the decision-makers all commented on how they really did not understand how difficult our job was until now,” says IAFF Local 1426 President Bob Smith, a co-organizer of the event. Stratford IAFF Local 998 President Bill Hanson and Westport IAFF Local 1198 President Nate Gibbons also helped arrange the event.
Smith adds, “The hope is that they will keep this experience in mind as they make decisions about our funding and resources.”
The evolutions included vehicle extrication, ladder maneuvers, ventilating a building and a live burn.
New Public Sector Employees Overwhelmingly Select Pensions Over Individual Retirement Accounts; Pension Cost Efficiencies Cited as Key Advantage - View
The Burn Center at Bridgeport Hospital is currently undergoing a $1.5 million dollar renovation. When completed the Connecticut Burn Center as it will be renamed, will serve all of the residents in the State of Connecticut and surrounding states. This nationally certified burn center, recognized by the American Burn Association is the only certified burn center in the State of Connecticut. It will be undergoing a complete modernization of the entire unit and updated with the most advanced equipment. This center has a highly trained and caring staff where patients being treated can be given the best care anywhere.
The Stratford Professional Firefighters Burn Foundation, partnering with the New London Firefighters Burn Foundation, the Uniformed Professional Firefighters Association of Connecticut and the Bridgeport Hospital Foundation are undertaking a fundraising campaign to support the cost of building a suite within the Connecticut Burn Center.
This suite will afford a family the opportunity to stay within this center where they can stay close to their loved one as they are being treated.
Please consider a donation in support of our efforts. Donations can be made by clicking on the Pay Pal icon or mailing a check made payable to SPFFBF and mailed to:
SPFFBF
P.O. Box 682
Stratford, CT 06615 You may also donate via PayPal by visiting:
Please include Bridgeport Hospital Suite on your checks memo line.
Donations are tax deductible under I.R.S. Guidelines and a letter will be sent to you for this purpose.
Governor Dannel P. Malloy today appointed members to the State Team Organized for the Review of Management of Irene (S.T.O.R.M. Irene) assessment team. The team, which is comprised of a group of people with diverse professional backgrounds in the military, disaster relief, municipal government, non-profit and labor sectors, will review the performance of the state and its partners – including the utilities and municipalities – in terms of the preparedness and response and recovery efforts related to Tropical Storm Irene.
World Trade Center and Fire Fighter Cancer Study Released
September 2, 2011 -- The study of cancer incidence of New York City fire fighters and fire officers and the association with exposures at the World Trade Center has been released. Researchers have found an increase of cancer in fire fighters and fire officers who were exposed to the toxic mix found at the World Trade Center. The exposed fire fighters had a 10 percent higher overall cancer incidence than the general male population in the United States and a 32 percent higher incidence than in non-exposed fire fighters.
“This is the first definitive study of the cancer experience of our FDNY members,” says IAFF General President Harold Schaitberger. "As we approach the 10th anniversary of the most horrific day in our history, we must never forget the 347 IAFF members lost that day, as well as the 33 fire fighters who have now died from their World Trade Center exposures and the hundreds of members who now have cancer as identified in this report.”
IAFF members of the FDNY, as well as members from across North America, were exposed to toxic combustion byproduct and a mix of asbestos, cement dust and pulverized building materials for days, weeks and months at the World Trade Center site and often without proper respiratory and personal protection. Many have retired because they are unable to continue working, and many others have suffered debilitating health effects, including cancer, and continue to receive medical treatment. Unfortunately, the IAFF expects this to continue.
The study does point out the need for expanded research, as well as continued fire fighter cancer screening and prevention strategies. However, this study, as well as the medical monitoring and medical intervention of FDNY members by FDNY’s Medical Division, were a direct result of efforts by the FDNY, the Uniformed Firefighters Association Local 94 and Uniformed Fire Officers Association Local 854 as part of the IAFF/IAFC Joint Labor-Management Wellness-Fitness Initiative (WFI).
IAFF Local 94 and Local 854 - along with the FDNY - are not only original Task Force members of the WFI, but fully implemented the provisions of the program when released in 1997.
“All FDNY fire fighters had WFI medicals before 9/11, and they continue on an annual basis to this day,” says IAFF Assistant to the General President of Occupational Health, Safety and Medicine Rich Duffy. "Lives were saved, careers continued and the collection of WFI medical data allows such definitive studies like this to be completed.”
Dr. Jim Melius, chair of the IAFF Medical Advisory Board, provided commentary published in conjunction with this study. Dr. Melius observes that all fire fighters have substantial exposure to toxic materials (including carcinogens) and bear a high burden of other illnesses as a result of their occupational exposures. He notes, "This report and future cancer studies should provide reassurance that medical follow-up is being done in a way that will detect new disease patterns in a timely manner and, hopefully, while there is time to intervene."
This study was published in The Lancet, a renowned medical journal. This edition provides additional medical-related reflections on the events of 9/11, and provides some of the research, review and opinion pieces on the short-term and long-term physical, mental and public health consequences of the terrorist attacks. It also includes an audio interview with FDNY Chief Medical Officer Dr. David Prezant, one of the study authors. Dr. Prezant discusses increased cancer risk among 9/11 fire fighters and future efforts in addressing the health risks of fire fighters exposed at the World Trade Center.
Update on Severe Weather and Reporting of Insurance Claims
In the aftermath of this weekend’s storm, our priority at Liberty Mutual is to keep our customers safe and to restore their lives as quickly as possible. Our affinity partners’ safety is our utmost priority, so please make sure you, your members and their families are following all safety announcements that are issued for your area.
24-Hour Claims Assistance
Liberty Mutual has deployed hundreds of claims representatives in the field and in our 24-hour call centers to meet our customers’ needs. We’re working hard to exceed our customers’ expectations, but we ask for patience as our call volume is high.
If a vehicle or property loss has been experienced as a result of the severe weather, a claim can be reported at any time online or by calling 1-800-2CLAIMS (1-800-225-2467).
Safety Tips
The aftermath of severe weather can be as dangerous as the storm itself. Liberty Mutual suggests the following tips to help keep you, your members, their families and property safe during the storm recovery.
For information about disaster relief, contact:
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) (www.fema.gov)
American Red Cross (www.redcross.org)
Wait for an “OK” from the police or official agency before re-entering an evacuated home.
Use only bottled or boiled water for drinking and cooking.
Turn on circuit breakers only after power returns.
Avoid downed power lines.
If you discover a gas leak, notify the gas company and evacuate the property.
Pump out flooded basements gradually to minimize structural damage.
Be alert for animals - especially snakes - that may have entered your home with floodwater.
Throw out food, canned goods and medicines touched by floodwater.
Let your car dry out before trying to start it.
Take an inventory of damaged property and possessions.
For more information about weather safety, click here.
Thank you for choosing Liberty Mutual as your auto and home insurance program provider. We truly value our relationship and will strive to exceed our customers’ expectations during this emergency.
Invitation to all Police, State Troopers, Firefighters, Emergency Medical Personnel & their Families
Ceremony Honoring Connecticut’s 9-11 First Responders
Please join David Fein, United States Attorney; Commissioner Reuben Bradford, Emergency Services & Public Protection; and Mary Fetchet, Executive Director of Voices of September 11th; on September 14, 2011, to honor all first responders and volunteers, particularly the first responders and volunteers who responded to lower Manhattan and to other locations after the World Trade Center attacks of September 11, 2001, and participated in the recovery and relief efforts in the days that followed.
We request this invitation be disseminated to all active and retired members. Please notify Tom Carson with the U.S. Attorney’s Office at (203) 821-3722, or by e-mail: Thomas.Carson@usdoj.govno later than September 12th with the names of those attending who were directly involved with the recovery and relief efforts.
The ceremony will take place from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.at Connecticut's 9-11 Living Memorial, Sherwood Island State Park, Westport Connecticut.
Congress will be considering deficit reduction legislation after the Summer recess. Taxing Health and Pension Benefits, and Mandatory Social Security Coverage are two proposals to raise revenue that would target fire fighters.
For the next four weeks, Members of Congress will be back in their districts to meet with their constituents. We encourage you to either schedule a one-on-one appointment with them, and if that is not possible, to attend one of their scheduled town hall type meetings to educate them on these two important issues.
We need you to encourage your members of Congress to Fight Back and be a strong advocate for our nation’s fire fighters
Please call or email Thomas McEachinme at 202-824-1301 or tmeachin@iaff.orgto get additional information and to report on the results of your meetings.
NFPA to Offer Code Access to FIRE Act Grant Applicants
August 9, 2011 -- The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has announced that Assistance to Firefighters (FIRE Act) grant applicants will have complimentary online access to 27 NFPA codes referenced in the grant program. Access is available through a special web portal through the end of the grant application period on September 9.
FIRE Act grants provide financial assistance directly to fire departments and non-affiliated EMS organizations to enhance capabilities with respect to fire and fire-related hazards. The primary goal is to help fire departments and non-affiliated EMS organizations meet their fire fighting and emergency response needs. Click here for more information or visit NFPA's web site.
Workers' Comp Bill Passes House
House Bill 5233 An Act Concerning Workers' Compensation for Fire Fighters (Post Traumatic Stress Syndrone) has passed the House of Representatives today by a vote of 148-3, a GREAT bipartisan accomplishment on a Workers' Compensation bill!!! THANK YOU TO ALL THOSE WHO MADE CALLS TO THEIR LEGISLATORS AND TO LEADERSHIP IN THE HOUSE...148-3 IS THE RESULT OF YOUR EFFORTS. Read More...
working together through collaboration on common interests toward the future of the fire service in connecticut at
ANTHONY’S LAKE CLUB
DANBURY, CT.
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
for
Fire Chiefs, Local Presidents, Executive Board Members & Stewards
8:30-9:30 REGISTRATION & CONTINTENTAL BREAKFAST
9:30-12:00 MORNING SESSION
12:00-1:00 LUNCH
1:00-3:30 AFTERNOON SESSION
BE PART OF THE DISCUSSION: Be sure that your members are part of the major discussion on the current status and future of the Connecticut Fire Service;
This is not a seminar but a round table discussion of the leaders of
Connecticut Fire Service so be sure your membership is represented;
It is recommended that each local president and members of your locals Executive Boards and Negotiating Committees attend. It is also recommended that each local discuss with your Department Chief to invite a rank and file member from your local to attend this important event and be part of the Discussion.
The 12th Annual Connecticut United Ride will take place on Sunday, September 9, 2012. The CT United Ride is the largest and most attended 9-11 memorial ride in the region.
On behalf of the Officers, Executive Board and Staff of the Uniformed Professional Fire Fighters of Connecticut I would like to thank the leadership and entire membership of our Connecticut affiliated IAFF locals for your continued support.
Over the years our officers, staff and legal counsel have worked hard to support you and protect your benefits. We have developed good solid working relationships with elected officials in our cities and towns across the state, in our state capitol and with our entire congressional delegation in Washington DC.
We have worked together with the Connecticut Fire Chiefs, the Joint Counsel of Connecticut Fire Service Organizations and other Labor Organizations in our state. But now is the time not to let our guard down. In 2012 we will be faced with continued attacks on our profession on the local, state and national arenas and we must continue to be strong and united. View Letter
The Stratford Professional Firefighters Burn Foundation, partnering with the New London Firefighters Burn Foundation, the Uniformed Professional Firefighters Association of Connecticut and the Bridgeport Hospital Foundation are undertaking a fundraising campaign to support the cost of building a suite within the Connecticut Burn Center.
This suite will afford a family the opportunity to stay within this center where they can stay close to their loved one as they are being treated.
RETURN COMPLETED FORMS TO THE U.P.F.F.A. AT THE ADDRESS LISTED ON APPLICATION.
DO NOT RETURN TO THE D.M.V. AS THEY CANNOT PROCESS THESE FORMS.
If you have any questions please contact: Paul J. Rapanault at 203.934.0105
∞∞∞∞
ATTENTION MEMBERS
Dear UPFFA Member:
I wanted to introduce you to an exciting new program that we have developed with Discount Power, a licensed electricity provider in Connecticut. As a locally owned and operated company that has enjoyed significant success over the past few years, they believe it is important to support the communities that have helped create that success and that’s why they’ve created the "You Save, We All Win" program.
The You Save, We All Win Program is designed to help community, education and nonprofit based groups with on-going support for their programs. We have partnered with Discount Power and they will provide monthly contributions to help us fund in part:
Emergency Relief Fund for Firefighters and their Families in times of need
Muscular Dystrophy Association
UPFFA Scholarship Fund
UPFFA Health and Safety Committee
Continuing Health and Safety Education for Fire Fighters
For every customer that enrolls with Discount Power we will receive a contribution for as long as that customer remains with Discount Power. You and your friends save on your electric bills and the UPFFA wins some much needed support for our worthwhile programs. "You Save, We All Win."
It’s really that simple. Once established, Discount Power tracks all of our usage, makes the contributions directly to the UPFFA account and provides an on line report detailing each month’s contribution.
Please contact Kevin Jannetty at 203-982-4866, or logon to www.upffapower.org or call Discount Power at 877-259-7693 for details. Just mention the name of your group to our Customer Service representative and they’ll take it from there. Start saving today and help the UPFFA win tomorrow!
Keep informed of the crucial issues that affect you and your family’s future. As an active member and future retiree you need to know what is happening in departments across our state and at our State Capitol. Join our email and telephone notification network for important bulletins, information and future email newsletter. See what the IAFF-UPFFA is doing to protect your benefits and the services we provide to you as an IAFF-UPFFA member on a daily basis. To Register on the UPFFA Web Site, it's easy, Just Go To the "Member Log-In" section of the site (top Right Column in and follow the directions).
If you are a Member of Local 786 and are having trouble accessing our web site, please contact
President Peter S. Carozza, Jr.
Workers' Comp Bill Passes House
House Bill 5233 An Act Concerning Workers' Compensation for Fire Fighters (Post Traumatic Stress Syndrone) has passed the House of Representatives today by a vote of 148-3, a GREAT bipartisan accomplishment on a Workers' Compensation bill!!! THANK YOU TO ALL THOSE WHO MADE CALLS TO THEIR LEGISLATORS AND TO LEADERSHIP IN THE HOUSE...148-3 IS THE RESULT OF YOUR EFFORTS. Read More...
working together through collaboration on common interests toward the future of the fire service in connecticut at
ANTHONY’S LAKE CLUB
DANBURY, CT.
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
for
Fire Chiefs, Local Presidents, Executive Board Members & Stewards
8:30-9:30 REGISTRATION & CONTINTENTAL BREAKFAST
9:30-12:00 MORNING SESSION
12:00-1:00 LUNCH
1:00-3:30 AFTERNOON SESSION
BE PART OF THE DISCUSSION: Be sure that your members are part of the major discussion on the current status and future of the Connecticut Fire Service;
This is not a seminar but a round table discussion of the leaders of
Connecticut Fire Service so be sure your membership is represented;
It is recommended that each local president and members of your locals Executive Boards and Negotiating Committees attend. It is also recommended that each local discuss with your Department Chief to invite a rank and file member from your local to attend this important event and be part of the Discussion.
The 12th Annual Connecticut United Ride will take place on Sunday, September 9, 2012. The CT United Ride is the largest and most attended 9-11 memorial ride in the region.
On behalf of the Officers, Executive Board and Staff of the Uniformed Professional Fire Fighters of Connecticut I would like to thank the leadership and entire membership of our Connecticut affiliated IAFF locals for your continued support.
Over the years our officers, staff and legal counsel have worked hard to support you and protect your benefits. We have developed good solid working relationships with elected officials in our cities and towns across the state, in our state capitol and with our entire congressional delegation in Washington DC.
We have worked together with the Connecticut Fire Chiefs, the Joint Counsel of Connecticut Fire Service Organizations and other Labor Organizations in our state. But now is the time not to let our guard down. In 2012 we will be faced with continued attacks on our profession on the local, state and national arenas and we must continue to be strong and united. View Letter
The Stratford Professional Firefighters Burn Foundation, partnering with the New London Firefighters Burn Foundation, the Uniformed Professional Firefighters Association of Connecticut and the Bridgeport Hospital Foundation are undertaking a fundraising campaign to support the cost of building a suite within the Connecticut Burn Center.
This suite will afford a family the opportunity to stay within this center where they can stay close to their loved one as they are being treated.
RETURN COMPLETED FORMS TO THE U.P.F.F.A. AT THE ADDRESS LISTED ON APPLICATION.
DO NOT RETURN TO THE D.M.V. AS THEY CANNOT PROCESS THESE FORMS.
If you have any questions please contact: Paul J. Rapanault at 203.934.0105
∞∞∞∞
ATTENTION MEMBERS
Dear UPFFA Member:
I wanted to introduce you to an exciting new program that we have developed with Discount Power, a licensed electricity provider in Connecticut. As a locally owned and operated company that has enjoyed significant success over the past few years, they believe it is important to support the communities that have helped create that success and that’s why they’ve created the "You Save, We All Win" program.
The You Save, We All Win Program is designed to help community, education and nonprofit based groups with on-going support for their programs. We have partnered with Discount Power and they will provide monthly contributions to help us fund in part:
Emergency Relief Fund for Firefighters and their Families in times of need
Muscular Dystrophy Association
UPFFA Scholarship Fund
UPFFA Health and Safety Committee
Continuing Health and Safety Education for Fire Fighters
For every customer that enrolls with Discount Power we will receive a contribution for as long as that customer remains with Discount Power. You and your friends save on your electric bills and the UPFFA wins some much needed support for our worthwhile programs. "You Save, We All Win."
It’s really that simple. Once established, Discount Power tracks all of our usage, makes the contributions directly to the UPFFA account and provides an on line report detailing each month’s contribution.
Please contact Kevin Jannetty at 203-982-4866, or logon to www.upffapower.org or call Discount Power at 877-259-7693 for details. Just mention the name of your group to our Customer Service representative and they’ll take it from there. Start saving today and help the UPFFA win tomorrow!
Keep informed of the crucial issues that affect you and your family’s future. As an active member and future retiree you need to know what is happening in departments across our state and at our State Capitol. Join our email and telephone notification network for important bulletins, information and future email newsletter. See what the IAFF-UPFFA is doing to protect your benefits and the services we provide to you as an IAFF-UPFFA member on a daily basis. To Register on the UPFFA Web Site, it's easy, Just Go To the "Member Log-In" section of the site (top Right Column in and follow the directions).
If you are a Member of Local 786 and are having trouble accessing our web site, please contact
IAFF Alumni Program
Welcome to the new IAFF Alumni web site. Membership in the IAFF Alumni helps you stay connected with your brothers and sisters within the IAFF community.
CathPosterRecep-2012.pdf
Fred Garrity, Chairman UPFFA United Ride, Rueben Bradford, Commissioner of Public Safety State of Connecticut, Bernard Sullivan, President Hundred Club of Connecticut, Peter S Carozza, Jr., President Uniformed Professional Fire Fighters of Connecticut attend the Hundred Club meeting and presented a check for 10,500.00, President Carozza is a member of the Hundred Club Board of Directors. 
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