I hope this letter finds everyone in good health. Most of us have been wide open since the first of the year; and I appreciate everyone's hard work and professionalism as we work to improve the Unions position within the Departments growth. We are in the midst of many changes, both as a Union and as individuals. Our goal is to stay focused on what's important to each of us while remembering that as a whole we have a great deal of influence in many areas. Some of our immediate concerns are political, operational and administrative. These as a whole create an environment that will keep us busy well into the later half of this year.

This year we have multiple political races to be aware of; they are local as well as at the state level. The local races include Chip Liabl and Ed Taylor. I have had conversations with both of these gentlemen and both indicate to me that they too want to see a better organized emergency service delivery system in Putnam County. They realize the challenges we face and are interested in learning more about the details of our day to day activities. We have what I believe to be an honest and open working relationship with the BOCC. On the state level we have Florida House of Representatives District 21 seat up for grabs this year. That seat is currently held by Charles VanZant and is being challenged by our local business woman Linda Meyers. I have spoke with Linda many times over the past few years and I'm always impressed with her thoughts and ideas.

I have been in touch with Mr. VanZants office and I'm presently waiting for information back outlining more of his platform, accomplishments, etc. Also on the state level Alex Sink the States most recent comptroller (Fire College falls under her jurisdiction) is running for governor. Both Alex and Linda have been endorsed by the FPF and the Gator Council; as well as many Locals. That is not to say that we should always take for granted everything we see and hear. We should always question for a better understanding of a candidates ideas and motivation.

Operationally our Department is in a great deal of flux and will be for many more years. Our goal as a Union should be to be an active participant in shaping the way the we move into the future. Training and Safety should be our cornerstones, because with both come the beginning of a solid foundation. Presently we are seeing much more fire and EMS training being presented, I’ve heard many opinions on the topic. If we want a voice in this arena then you must speak up and commit your ideas to paper and we can present them in a professional manner during the incipient stages of the process. This is true of any process that our Department undertakes. Safety is the other building block that we must always strive to maintain. I was in the officers meeting recently and  as all of you know I’ve always been a proponent of operational SOG’s, so I was pleased to hear that SOG’s are on heir way and there will be official training on them so that we can all be on the same page. That is a huge step in the right direction. Our Union is in a unique position as compared to most, we are in on a ground floor opportunity that will allow us to work and create our own future.

From a administrative standpoint the Union needs to build depth. We need tons more people involved in the operation of the Union. The more members involved, the more projects we can accomplish and the more visible we will become. You do not have to put in a crazy amount of hours, just a few. Ask yourself a few questions; what do I like to do, how much time can I commit and maybe what do I want to gain from my union How can I make the union stronger and therefore make myself stronger. Please take care and be safe.

Dwight