people

[why]

I live in the town of brookhaven and I wonder why is it when I see posters for volunteer fire and ems people that I never see minorities?Does the town have any say in who gets to volunteer?Why is it that I don't see Any of the big red billboard's in minority neighborhoods?When I call 911 I think that their should be a wide spectrum of people and I think that the town should start putting some time and money into trying to bring in a little more diversity.
________
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[Savannah]

The county ran ads for volunteers throughout Brookhaven Town. My son was on the side of the CBS Line that ran all over the county for many months..Another one of our membership was on the poster that was plastered all over town..
The fire service doesn't care what race, creed or color you are, just that you are able and willing to give your time to serve.
Sorry you missed the ad's, but if you check out the website for Suffolk Fire Rescue, you will see all the many faces in the rainbow.

[Medic87]

Who cares what color you are??? Not any of the departments i run with. They need help, period. I am certain that no one is turning away anyone. No one can help who turns up to volunteer, that is the most ridiculous thing i have ever heard. The focus is on getting volunteers, not to fill useless quotas. I am not saying that it didn't happen years ago maybe, but I have a real hard time believing that any dept is turning anyone away. Who cares who is on the posters black or white, woman or man. COME DOWN AND VOLUNTEER!!!! that is the point. I don't care if your purple and green and have 3 legs, and 5 ears, come down. Thats all for me.

[silly white boy]

I just wanted to correct you... plenty of people get turned away, forced out, not voted in..... infact... I know it cause it happened to me... I was forced out of a deparment for not being part of the "in crowd"... and I'm just a plain old white long island boy.

Volly agencies don't discriminate against blacks, hispanics or anyone else... they are equally prejudice against anyone they don't like, regardless of color, race or religion!!!!


Can't ride if you're not an EMT, can't just drive, not enough experiance, left another department for "unknown" reasons... whatever their excuse is, its pathetic that these department won't just take anyone they can, to drive, answer phones, wash the trucks, whatever it might, hands are hands, and work, or anykind, is a positive.

Some of these departments need to wake up and realize if they continue to act like little children who got beat up in high school and stuffed in locker with something to prove, they aren't going to exist, you'll all be able to "volunteer" to do the paid guys laundry! :-P

[why]

I FIND IT HARD TO BELIEVE THAT PEOPLE ARE NOT BEING TURD AWAY FOR THE COLOR OF THEIR SKIN.I HAVE BEAN AROUND FOR A LONG TIME AND I HAVE SEAN A LOT OF THING DEPARTMENTS NOT RESPONDING TO NEIGHBORHOODS THAT ARE NOT ALL WHITE THOSE EMERGENCES GET HANDLED BY ANOTHER DEPARTMENT,BUT ONE MIN LATTER i SEE THEM GOING TO A CALL IN A WHITE PART OF TOWN I WONT SIT AND ARGUE IF THEIR IS DISCRIMINATION IN FIRE AND EMS BUT I THINK SOME EFFORT SHOULD BE PUT INTO BRINGING MORE COLOR INTO THE VOLLEY SYSTEM.
________
vapir oxygen (http://oxygenvaporizer.com)

[Dumbfounded]

If you have seen any of the recruiting campaign posters, you would see that a vast majortity of the last batch depict dead center, clear as day, Ex-Chief and current commish of the Gordon Heights Fire Dept. Chesley Ruffin. THEY ARE EVERYWHERE. Go to any county office (civil service, SCPD HQ, FRES, etc.) and they're right in front of you. Or, if you are too lazy, you can go to www.co.suffolk.ny.us/we2wantu/ and see another version, this one features another member of GHFD, Lt. Tommy Tinsley (far left) among others (male, female, black, white, oriental, whatever). So, I'm not seeing your point. Are simply trying to find discrimination where there is none? If so, you need a hobby.

[Dont Get It]

"Can't ride if you're not an EMT, can't just drive, not enough experiance, left another department for "unknown" reasons... whatever their excuse is, its pathetic that these department won't just take anyone they can, to drive, answer phones, wash the trucks, whatever it might, hands are hands, and work, or anykind, is a positive."

Listen, you obviously think that because it says volunteer that we have to take you. Guess again. When it comes to race, religion, sex, etc, we really don't care. We will take anybody,anytime. But, heres the big one, IF YOU CAN'T PERFORM THE BASIC FUNCTIONS OF THE SERVICE WHETHER IT BE EMS OR FIREFIGHTING, YOU SHOULD NOT BE HERE. IT IS A JOB, WHETHER YOU WANT TO SEE THAT OR NOT. YOUR PREVIOUS DEPARTMENT EXPERIENCE IS RELEVANT, YOUR CRIMINAL RECORD IS RELEVANT, YOUR ABILITY TO PERFORM THE BASIC FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB ARE RELEVANT.

We don't just need a set of hands, we need people who are willing and able to perform the duties and responsibilities of the job appropriately. We are responsible for providing you the appropriate training under NYS, we have to pay for insurance to cover you, and we have to purchase gear for you to use. All of costs money and time for someone who is just a pair of hands. We have enough of those already.

So, if your interested in the doing the job,come on in we love to have you. But you have to be willing to do the job.

[YouvegotabigSET]

2 things.....................

1."YOUR CRIMINAL RECORD IS RELEVANT"

No it's not.
The only thing from an applicants criminal history that can be revealed to a fire department is if that applicant was ever CONVICTED of arson IN NYS.
Any other criminal information revealed would be ILLEGAL, a violation of NYS executive law.


2.THIS THREAD IS COMPLETELY RIDICULOS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I CAN NOT BELIEVE SOMEONE HAD THE BALLS TO EVEN SUGGEST SUCH A THING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yeah now we discriminate against applicants.

WHATEVER.
DOUCH.

[Still dont get it]

"1."YOUR CRIMINAL RECORD IS RELEVANT"

No it's not.
The only thing from an applicants criminal history that can be revealed to a fire department is if that applicant was ever CONVICTED of arson IN NYS.
Any other criminal information revealed would be ILLEGAL, a violation of NYS executive law."

You are an idiot. It is not against the law to reveal that persons entire criminal record information during the application process. Check your facts. If he/she is convicted of a crime that directly impacts their ability to properly perform their duties in the volunteer fire service, then the employer has the RIGHT TO KNOW and chose their applicants wisely. You do not want rapists/child molesters providing care on board your ambulances. These facts would restrict them from getting EMT cards anyway. You do not want thieves and embezzlers who have a direct impact on corporation business. When voted on, members have the right and responsibility to know what kind of candidate is being put forward. In addition, since 9/11, this information can be gathered, especially when security is an issue.

You my friend, are an ass. Stick to coloring books and crayons, there more you speed.

Douche

[right on]

still don't get i agree with you 100% on that matter, bottom line if you want to volunteer go down and fill out the application i can guarantee what ever department it is they will be glad to take you in regardless of color, sex, or religion
________
Emili_ (http://www.girlcamfriend.com/cam/Emili_/)

[Youre a big idiot]

This is how it is done. An applicant may be required to answer the following questions during the application process.

"Have you ever been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor?
or
"Do you have any criminal charges pending against you?"

The applicants may also be required to consent to a background investigation, including a criminal records check, to confirm the accuracy of truthfulness of their application. Should anything come back that the applicant did not disclose while filling out his application, all the fire or EMS agency has to say during the voting process is state that the individual was "not truthful" during the application process and that the investigators do not recommend the individual for membership. Or the application can be terminated in process due to filing a false document, either way is legal and does not even come close to discriminatory practice.

If the applicant does reveal any charges or convictions, the application gets processed accordingly, unless it is an arson conviction,and the applicant can be voted and approved by the agency.

Once voted upon by the department, the applicants file is forwarded to the Board of Fire Commissioners or other authority for final approval by resolution. Should the Commissioners feel that the individuals convictions or charges pose a serious concern or threat to their performance in the department, the applicant can be refused membership without comment by the commissioners.

This is how we keep individuals who have less than average character out of areas where they should not be. You do not want people with 30 suspensions on their licenses responding in the private vehicles to alarms. You do not want people with histories of theft or embezzlement holding positions where they must handle assets or are bonded. You don't want people who have felony convictions in positions where the hold peace officer status. You don't want child molesters treating children and rapists treating women.

This isn't discrimination, it is called protecting the public from people that have proven that they can't play by the rules. Learn to know the difference.

[why]

If the application process is as you posted it then why are theire so Meany departments that do not have more then one or two minorities in their department?
________
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[Not Obvious to Me]

"If the application process is as you posted it then why are theire so Meany departments that do not have more then one or two minorities in their department?"

I don't see what you are saying here. My department, as well as the departments surrounding us, all have many members who are of different ethnic backgrounds. I believe your experience is limited and not indicative of the vast majority of the agencies on LI.

[reply to why]

simply put... fewer minorities apply... therefore fewer minorities are involved... simple

[Biased]

SORRY.
I am in a position that conducts the background checks for fire depts. in SC.
The only thing that can be revealed from a criminal history is an ARSON conviction. Anything else would be in violation of New York State executive law!!!!
And if anyone is telling you of other criminal activity THEY are breaking the law.
There is only 1 agency in each county empowered by NYS law to conduct criminal background checks for fire departments (SCSO NOT SCPD)and the guidelines are pretty CLEAR.

YOU MAY ONLY REVEAL ARSON CONVICTIONS AND ONLY IN NYS!!!!!!
Sorry this is FACT. It KILLS me to see what some of these applicants we process have done, yes rape, murder,even saw someone who was a child molester, AND hes out there in one of OUR FD's RIGHT NOW!!!!

But NYS executive law prohibits the release of this information, even if one of these applicants was from MY OWN DEPT. I couldn't even tell the chief to "loose it in the round file"
If SCPD is also conducting criminal background checks they are breaking the law.
I know many of you are going to say im full of @#%$, but again i know, im in a position to process these applicants.
Believe what you want. SORRY.

Oh sure you can ASK the applicant(on the application) if they are a criminal, maybe you will get lucky and they will tell the truth, but for the agency conducting the criminal history check it would be illegal to reveal anything other than arson.
________
rolling a joint (http://howtorollajoint.net/)

[twitching]

OK, lets let anyone & everyone into any department with one small restriction.....Learn to spell for god's sake!!! Did all of you actually graduate High School????? Am I the only one who reads these boards and can't get over the abominable spelling and grammar??? C'mon guys....

[Oh, its ok, it was consen]

Here's the point. Fire departments may do criminal background investigations on any individual and may, as a course of the application process, require the individual to consent to said investigation, including a complete criminal records investigation. Yes, NYS executive law states what it states. But, and the courts have supported this already, employers have the right to protect the interests of the public over that of the individual.

In addition, there are a lot of other sources available to confirm an individuals criminal records other than the county police departments, all of which are legal. Peoples criminal convictions are a matter of public record, unless otherwise sealed due to age. Lexis/Nexis is a good start.

"It KILLS me to see what some of these applicants we process have done, yes rape, murder,even saw someone who was a child molester, AND hes out there in one of OUR FD's RIGHT NOW!!!!"

If that is the particular case, then the people who did the background investigation and application process did not exercise all available avenues to protect both the department and the public.

"Oh sure you can ASK the applicant(on the application) if they are a criminal, maybe you will get lucky and they will tell the truth, but for the agency conducting the criminal history check it would be illegal to reveal anything other than arson."

You are not revealing anything. You are confirming the validity and truthfulness of an individuals application. You are also, as a matter of course, determining whether an individual can perform their appropriate duties(i.e- if they have a conviction that severe that NYS DOH won't issue them and EMT certificate, etc).

Like I said before, there is a great difference between what the law states and what is done to protect the public. Claiming ignorance or lack of due diligence does not excuse the commissioners or board members from their responsibility to protect the public.

I will use any and all tools available to protect the public and the fire district from the threat these people pose. I am not talking about BS convictions, I am talking about serious convictions that pose a continued threat.

Read what you want into this, I sleep well at night.

[Biased]

I sleep well at night too.
Sorry i'm not going to jepordize my job by breaking the law. If there are ways to obtain someones criminal history other than DCJS then i hope ALL depts. are utilizing this option, as for me i'm only going to tell you about arson.

P.S. I never said i liked or condoned the situation, I was just correcting someone elses misconception as to how well applicants are screened.

and if you don't like my spelling, don't read it, i could care less to sit here and run spell check all the time.
________
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[FFMedic247]

Ambulance corps don't follow the same rules as the FD's. I know for a fact that anyone with a felony conviction is turned away from my VAC. My Firehouse has turned applicants away for things other than arson. I don't know about the rest of you, but I wouldn't want some molester, rapist or whatever riding on a bus or a pumper with me. They can turn you away for whatever reason they want. They do not HAVE to accept anyone. Is it right, absolutely not, but they get away with it, I know, I have seen it first hand. Honestly, you can't do it as a profession with felony convictions, why should you be able to volunteer. That is my opinion. Remember these are people that could some day be in the back, alone, with your mother/daughter/son, whatever. Could be handling the finances. Could be in a burning building with just you and your in distress. We have to be able to trust the people we work with. That is why this sire is so ridiculous, because it is tearing apart one of the only things we have left, our brotherhood. Be Safe out there.

[VOLLY]

It appears to me that this young black man is claiming that the vollies discriminate against black folk! UNBELIEVABLE. When do you stop playing the race card. Kid, this isn't a paid county therefore if you don't see black firemanz then that is simply b/c the black man just don't want to volunteer. If they did, guess what...you would see more of them!

[Vengeful Medic]

What kind of nonsense is this? You state that someone is playing the race card and how ridiculous it is. Yet you turn around and say something equally (if not more so) asinine:

"...the black man just don't want to volunteer."

Maybe you need to walk into a few departments just in the town of Babylon alone. Then head up to Huntington...then out to Islip, Smithtown, Brookhaven...yadda yadda yadda...You will find a significant number of Black as well as Hispanic and other racial denominations in many, many departments. But I'll tell you something else...most of your departments will reflect your districts' ethnic makeup. And as a Black man, I take special offense to that comment. I personally have volunteered since I was 12 years old, in churches, non profit orgs, workgroups, and my current VAC as well as an FD at one time. That's more than 15 years of Volunteering (without actually giving up my age to you all). No one told me to or made me do what I did...I chose to, and many of my friends who were also Black. But I digress, perhaps your comment was made in reflection of your view of Black people? And before anyone goes and makes this into an "Explosive" racial issue, I only made that last comment because people tend to make general statements in regards to something when they view it in a certain way. Thank you.

Omar-Fara B. Norgaisse, EMT-P
________
Biancababe (http://www.girlcamfriend.com/cam/Biancababe/)

[Savannah]

My family and myself have been members of the Fire Service since 1947.

My father was the chief of our department in the early 50's and is still one of the most active members we have at the ripe old age of 76.

Surprise we are black!!!

Our family joined the fire service BECAUSE we wanted to be part of a positive force in our community as well as to fulfill a very definite need.

Yes, our department is primarly black..because that was our community base for quite sometime. In recent years the ethnic compositon of Gordon Heights has changed, which is also now reflected in the complexity of our membership.

In case you need a reminder, this the 21st century, and many progresses have been made. As long as you are willing to donate your time, learn your craft and be available when called upon..your ethnic background makes no difference.

We are providing a much needed service for all - open to all - who have the desire to serve.

Do your research before you present such inflammatory remarks..Sign me,

Patricia A Wilson-Brown
President Gordon Heights Fire Department

[mcmello]

I THINK VOLLIE WAS JUST ANSWERING THE QUESTION POSTED BY 'WHY' IT WAS FAIRLY ACCURATE.

[Ocrainaugh]

Omar...you're black!? Who knew!?

Gawd, I get sick of this stuff. There's only 2 colors in EMS...blue and red and those colors revolve around the patient. I don't care what color you are. Are you competent? That's what matters. Yeah, if you done crimes, I don't want ya. If your a gang banger, leave that crap on Straight Path, pull your pants up and come on in. If you're a Skinhead, leave that crap in the same place, buy a wig and come on in. The 'Danch always had a rep as being the Foriegn Legion. We took anybody nobody else wanted and put 'em to work. Guess what we found out? Black, white, brown, red, yellow or rainbow, some of 'em were stars, some of 'em were jerks, but the overwhelming majority of 'em just went out and did the job. Lets stop worrying about a politically correct ad campaign and get out there and work. If you think you were wronged in the application process, get yourself a lawyer and fix it. We all know that they only get away with stuff like that if we let 'em.
Peace,
Obewan

[Vengeful Medic]

Not too loud, Obewan.......now I'll have to have everyone stare into this device (Flash)...now you'll forget all about this and go about the business of saving lives and serving your communities..........

Omar-Fara B. Norgaisse, EMT-P
________
UGGS (http://uggstoreshop.com/)

[lurker]

I can't see a color through a hood and a mask. And all our bunker gear is the same color. Do I care what is the race of the person next to me is? Heck no. Courage has no color....stay low

[watchfulleye]

We heard from Gordon Heights.

What about Roosevelt and Wyandanch .....

[npfd393]

You mention specific traditional African-American communities. While the demographics would support that the majority of residents and by extension emergency service (FD and EMS) voluteers are people of race. That is not the issue here.

I too am only concerned if any person is trained and willing to do the job. I don't care what color you are. And maybe just maybe if the numbers bear out (and I don't know if they do) that there are less members of color in the FD and EMS than maybe just maybe its because that just like the rest of us Long Islanders he's doing the two job thing or relieving his mate so she can work too. Let's not forget the economics of this place we call home.

[Ocrainaugh]

Hey! Wyandanch is NOT an African American Community! We got a whole passle o' them Hispanics, Too! Pop Lyons must be spinnin' in his grave.

[Black FD Member]

I am a black man that is a member of a local FD in the town of brookhaven.When I first made the decision to become a volley I went to my local fire department filed out an application and was given a tour of their firehouse I was treated very respectful by the Chief at the time.While during my tour I came across their brush truck and much to my amazement the truck had and still has to this day a confederate flag panted on the front of it.I took this tour about 5 years ago and I made the decision to go to a black fire department. I was not going to volley at a department that will proudly display a flag that wanted to continue slavery.I understand that the flag means different things to different people and I also know that the flag may or may not represent the same views as it did in the past but it still represents to me slavery.I don't know if people are turned away because of the color of their skin but I do know of a time when FD's would not take black members in.Yes I know that was a long time ago but some people in the system still think that FD's are a all white boy's club.

[watchfulleye]

GOOD PEOPLE ARE HARD TO FIND .

MAN

WOMAN

BLACK

WHITE

HISPANIC

CHINESE

need anyone say more..............

OUT OF MANY WE ARE ONE !

[Medic87]

Here is how it goes. If you don't have any Chinese members, then no Chinese people applied. So on and so on with every ethnicity. Thats all there is to it. To be honest, the new signs have no pictures, all they do is ask for vollies and give info. They are in rich and poor neighborhoods, black and white neighborhoods. If those specific people that you are so worried about are not members, then they didn't apply. It is that simple. No one is turning away good applicants. The key word there is GOOD. Just like stated prior, if you can do the job, no one is going to deny you membership anywhere. Be Safe out there........

[chief no more]

I am proud to say I was chief of one of the best departments around...all around...and very, very culturally and racially diverse.


I am only sorry I am not there anymore.....


Be safe everyone.............

________
PassionFlavour live (http://camslivesexy.com/cam/PassionFlavour)

[VOLLY]

Vengefulmedic - simply put what I am saying is exactly what Medic 87 says, when people black, chinese, spanish, whatever they are do not apply then of course you will not see any. Do you understand now?

[Vengeful Medic]

The issue in regards to my response to you is not whether or not I understood what you were saying, but how your statement was perceived in context. Do you understand?


Omar-Fara B. Norgaisse, EMT-P
________
IOLITE VAPORIZER REVIEW (http://iolitevaporizer.net/)

[dlb51]

While during my tour I came across their brush truck and much to my amazement the truck had and still has to this day a confederate flag panted on the front of it.I took this tour about 5 years ago and I made the decision to go to a black fire department. I was not going to volley at a department that will proudly display a flag that wanted to continue slavery.I understand that the flag means different things to different people and I also know that the flag may or may not represent the same views as it did in the past but it still represents to me slavery.

You are kidding, right?

Asswipe
________
NORTH AMERICAN RACING TEAM (http://www.ferrari-wiki.com/wiki/North_American_Racing_Team)

[Medic87]

I can not say that I do or do not understand what that flag might mean to black people, what I can say is that I know the FD you are referring to, and there are about 15 black members there. Not only that, but 3 of them are in the company with that truck. They have no problem with it. It does not mean slavery, it means rebels. You just deprived your own community your service, and went to another. Problems are not going to go away simply because you go somewhere else. Like I said, I am not a black person, so maybe I don't get it. All I know is symbols are what YOU make them, not others. While I can see your point, I just don't understand. Maybe I never will. Be Safe guys and gals.......

[History Repeats]

Okay, guys and gals. Here’s a history lesson.

Firstly, the Confederate Flag, whether you consider it a sign of being a rebel or not, is an artifact of a time when our country was so divided it took a Civil War to sort it out. Though the Civil War was initially started as a result of the secession of the Southern States, it turned into a war for the abolition of Slavery. The South was not going to be allowed to destroy the Union and many northerners were strictly fighting for that reason. However, as the Civil War waged on, more and more Northern leaders saw that it was now the institution of slavery that needed to be destroyed in order to bring an end to the Civil War. A slavery-based society over 250 years old was destroyed to free the slaves in the states in rebellion, which resulted in the almost complete destruction of the economic, agrarian and industrial capabilities of the south (Thanks to Great, Great Uncles Sherman and Grant). Over 620,000 people died, another 380,000 injured, and over 3 million people serving in the war (10% of the country’s population).

Needless to say, different people have different views on what this means. I personally do not equate it with Slavery per Se. However, why the hell would you want to even have something on your vehicle that represents one of the lowest points in American History and epitomizes stupidity and waste on a scale that has never again been seen? Mind you it was on both sides, North and South, which I speak of stupidity.

Unfortunately, most people equate the Confederate Flag with negative connotations, whether it is slavery or otherwise. Why would you want something equated with the fire service that would reflect badly upon you, especially by the people of the community that you serve. I think that maybe you should begin to think about what other people may feel about the governmental agency that is responsible for their protection. Because, if they even remotely feel that are threatened by the agencies that are there for their protection, then you have just violated the public trust and will eventually have deal with the repercussions such as defeated bond referendums, station rebuilds, equipment purchases, and fund raising.

I am not saying remove the Confederate Flag, I am saying live with the consequences though.

[Medic87]

While I agree with your entire argument, I wish to ask one question. When did our society become a bunch of sissies??? That you can't say or do anything anymore without offending someone. We have become so worried about what we can and can't say or what we can and can't do, that we have forgotten that all of the above is what this country was founded on. I will agree with the fact that it was a very bad time for us as a country, but we came out the other end better. Maybe not in some peoples eyes, but in most. Who cares that the stars and bars are on the front. There are depts that put many things on their trucks, Jamaican flags. Now what if a Haitian or Dominican wished to join, should they take those colors down because they find that offensive. Where does it end???? Do you see what I am saying? I think everyone has somethings they are offended by, who do we listen to? When do we say thats enough? That is what is wrong with the world today, not things like this. It is that everyone is so god damn sensitive about everything. I really doubt that any black members of that dept would stand for it, if they were a bunch of mindless rednecks running around spouting slurs. Maybe I look at that flag and think of the positives, not the negatives. Believe it or not, after all that bad stuff you mentioned, there were a lot of positives that came from it also. Be Safe.......

[History Repeats]

“When did our society become a bunch of sissies??? That you can't say or do anything anymore without offending someone. We have become so worried about what we can and can't say or what we can and can't do, that we have forgotten that all of the above is what this country was founded on.”

The freedom of speech is not absolute (i.e-Yelling fire in a crowded move theater argument, etc.) However, some things have more attached to them than just the words or outside images. You would probably say that a swastika on the front of a brush truck, like say in the insignia of the German Africa Corps, would be considered inappropriate. Some people would say that the Confederate Flag has those same connotations. If you take into consideration that people throughout this country’s history have used this flag to spearhead their violent actions against minorities, you may see this differently than everyone bitching about what is particularly pissing them off this week. People have used this flag as a banner for the Night Riders, KKK, and other supremacist groups as they slaughtered hundreds of African-Americans, and their northern Reconstructionist supporters, after the Civil War. I think you might agree that everything must be considered before determining that something is offensive and having it removed.

However, this is really not the point. The point is that this is not the freedom of speech for a particular individual expressing his or her own views and beliefs. This is a governmental agency using a symbol that is considered hateful, by a large percentage of the population of the United States, on their apparatus. Even the southern states are removing this symbol from their flags and seals in recognition of this fact. This is far more significant than just one person being offended.

“Maybe I look at that flag and think of the positives, not the negatives. Believe it or not, after all that bad stuff you mentioned, there were a lot of positives that came from it also.”

Yes some positives came out of the Civil War, the Union preserved. However, we are still battling the problems that resulted almost 150 years later. I agree that it may have been worse if things ended differently after the Civil War. But some things are still here and have to be addressed. I am just a plain Caucasian American, but if it were my department, I would take the initiative and ask that the symbol be replaced with something else signifying something stronger than a rebel flag. You too, stay safe….

[Medic87]

I agree!! I still think the world has gone soft. Can we atleast agree on that. Be Safe and stay low........

[History Repeats]

Definitely. Example-France and Germany-Enough said.

[Black FD Member]

You are very wrong in calling me an asswipe I take pride in what I do as a Fireman and as an EMT. I look at that flag as a symbol of oppression whether or not others look at it that way is of not a concern of mine. I think that, the department that has that flag is a great one, I never said that Thea where racist or discriminatory towards black's. My own brother is a member of that department I just felt that I was not going to allow my self to swallow my pride because a department wanted to display a flag that I feel is offensive.I also have a reply to Medic87 I don't think that people have become soft or a bunch of pansies,I think in this day and age people actually stand up for themselves people are voicing how Thea feel.I think that is a good thing.

[Black FD Member]

I wanted to add my name to this so people that have a problem with what I think or what I say can address me and not on this site.

Lindsey S Smith First Lt.of the Gordon Heights Fire Department

[Vengeful Medic]

You're still out there, Chris? heh heh.....

Omar...
________
NEW MEXICO MEDICAL MARIJUANA (http://newmexico.dispensaries.org/)

[racedoesntmatter]

Why are you people making a big race issue where there isn't one? I can't think of a department that discriminates on the basis of race. You also have to realize that the membership of the department reflects the makeup of the community. In a town where there are few blacks, guess what-- there won't be many in the fire department. It is simply the law of probability.

That being said, I don't care what race you are. If you're ready and willing to do the job, come on down. If you can be trustworthy on the fire scene, I will be proud to call you my brother.

[anothersuffolkcc]

you know whether you are black, male, white, hispanic, female it should not matter. you are all out there for a purpose. to help someone who calls for help. yes there are fewer blacks out there in the fire service but does anyone think they know why. i think one reason is the amount of schooling you have to do to get your ff1 or if you want to get your emt you are required to have your high school diploma, right. many black people because of where they live and where society puts them may not have the education to be able to take these classes and pass them. maybe you should think of these people and help them out. this also applies to white or hispanics also. don't think this is only a problem for black people, it isn't.

I am White and proud of it but I would like to see other black people become Firefighters and EMTs.

good luck to all of you out there. hope you find the help you need or be able to pass these classes to better yourselves and your family and friends.

[what]

I think that you have a lot of balls saying that blacks and other minority groups do not have the education to pass a FF1 or EMT class.Public education is out their for every person so it has nothing to do with your color or where you live that determines whether you are able to take or pass a class.Departments like Bellport FD have only 2 blacks in their department how or why do you explain that they have a large base of minorities in their district but only 2 in their ranks.
________
Threesome mwm (http://www.fucktube.com/categories/1076/mwm/videos/1)

[Savannah]

I find your comments to be so ignorant! To state that black people don't join BECAUSE they are of a lower educational class, then try and clean it up to include whites and hispanics is outrageous!
There are many ethnic groups who have people who are uneducated. Race, color or creed have nothing to do with it.
Volunteerism is a personal choice and not everyone chooses it nor has the time necessary to dedicate to do the job throughly.
Please make sure you THINK before you write. Besides the fact the it's the 21st Century and we should be past all those racial notions, the fire department family does not need people who think like you to recruit.
Patricia A. Wilson - Brown

[TOB FF]

What's scariest is what the CC in the name probably stands for.
________
Starcraft Replays Terran (http://screplays.com)

[who]

Mean People Suck.........








Nice People Swallow..........
________
PornCollegeGirl (http://www.girlcamfriend.com/cam/PornCollegeGirl/)

[kcharp]

Come on people, we all know that fire dept's does not discriminate, publicly. Its whats under the covers that really hurt the minority volunteer. I see it in my own dept. and it makes me sick. we could all be more tollerant .

[White]

I am a member of an all white FD I was on the membership committee for about two years.I can say in that time I must of had 15 application's from blacks in the community and once it got to the Chiefs office or the Comm office the application's got lost disappeared the application process that took aprox 4 to 5 months for a white application took about 8 to 10 months for blacks I felt that this was wrong but for fear that I would be forced out of the department I love is the reason why I keep my mouth shut.In 2004 things like this go on you must be living in a box if you think that it does'nt go one I am sorry for what is still going on black white issues should have stopped a long time ago but the more things change the more they stay the same.

[ghfd176]

Let me just say this, if all of you'll really believe that we don't have a race problem in some Fire Dept.s then go back to Patchogue FD story. If I remember they was on the news for just what some people claim don't happen.
And he was the ONLY BLACK firefighter in that dept. Lets just say this, we will always have a race problem in any Org. here or anywhere. We just have to teach the younger people that skin color doesn't matter as long as the person(s) treat you right. I'm doing what Martin said to do, teach love,peace and harmony.

[FF]

Lonnie, why do you say he, when he is u?
________
MistressKarra (http://www.girlcamfriend.com/cam/MistressKarra/)

[FF]

Don't u think u might just be a little biased on this topic?
________
Park Royal 2 Condo Pattaya (http://pattayaluxurycondos.com)

[Ex84]

keeping busy?

[TheOther87]

Unfortunately the answer to that question is yes. Another 2 weeks and I have a day off scheduled. Come on by some time. You still remember where we are, right Kenny? LOL

Chris

[Ex84]

wrong bnl guy Chris..LOL

[TheOther87]

DOH! Stupid mistake, sorry.

[ghfd176]

Yes, it is I; William L. Antonio. And I know first hand about being the ONLY BLACK one. No I am not lying about what I faced up front. But I still have great friends from that Dept. that I would go back to back in a fire.All I want is for people to stop denying that their is a PROBLEM. If we can learn one BIG thing about race, its that we All need each other in this world.

[exnpfd]

HOWS THAT LITIGATION GOING BOSS DID YOU MAKE OLD DOC SQUEAL YET? LOL KEEP UP THE FIGHT!

[ghfd176]

Everything is done and I walked away very,very HAPPY. My only regret is that as of last week I had to deal with two assholes about the suit. Mind u that these two have never been part of PFD or EMS. I still have great friend in PFD and we get together whenever we can it was just the ones in power that started all the problems.

[female]

please get real- there is no question of racism in today's world -the only difference is that we are not allowed to show it publicly--- but as others say what goes on behind the scene is another story. How about being a female, black, oriental or Jew in a town formerly called Breslau? look at the list of members mostly Germans- of course a few jews and females and possibly black and orientals must be sprinkled in for effect! confederate flags and swastikas mean plenty to people who were oppressed --closing our eyes to it does not make it go away! i am sorry that people are afraid to stand up and do the right thing but like "white" I understand it takes alot to stand up for what is right and most of us don't have it in us!

[EDUCATED]

The Village of Breslau (Lindenhurst) was settled (and named) in 1870. This shows where ignorant people get offended by absolutely nothing. The anti-semitism that is associated with the Nazi Party, or, National Socialist Party, came about in the years following World War I, when a financially crippled Germany needed soemone (or some group) to blame their troubles on. As that Breslau was settled long before the 1930's, when Hitler was elected Chancelor, and before World War I, the route of his hate, HOW CAN THIS TOWN NAME AND IT'S HISTORY BE OFFENSIVE! The damn Nazi Party did not even exist back then. STOP LOOKING FOR WAYS TO TRY TO MAKE PEOPLE FEEL SORRY FOR YOU AND GET A FRIGGIN LIFE! And as for the swatstika, though I do not support the anti-semitic ideas that is unfortunately now associated with, it has actually been around for over 3000 years, and is considered one of the oldest symbols in history, representing life and good luck. We have even used it in our military, as in the old 45th Infantry Division's patch. Go to www.vetshome.com/military...patch5.htm and scroll down to the 45th. The point is, symbols are just that. Symbols. It's the way ignorant racist jerkoffs use them that makes them offensive.

[EDUCATED]

Before someone says it, yes, I know the word is "Root", not "Route". Give me some slack, it's 1 in the morning.

[me]

if you are incompetent, unable to learn, or just plain dumb ...just scream racism
________
Volcano Vaporizer Review (http://vaporizer.org/)

[unregistered]

if you truly believe that there is no problem with racism you are blind and living in a fantasy land. maybe no-one discriminates against you because you are the "superior race". i am merely stating a fact that anyone with half a brain can see. discrimination does exist EVERYWHERE (including the perfect village you live in) i am not interested in learning the history of "Breslau" in the 1870's. i see what goes on in this village TODAY. your comment --symbols are just symbols shows what a jerkoff* (your intelligent wording) YOU are. maybe you need to read some of the prior posts on here and learn what symbols mean to families who had ancestors that were affected by racism. i seriously doubt Jewish people consider swastikas "GOOD LUCK"(especially since Hitler) nor do African American people consider the KKK "GOOD LUCK" either. ( i know -that does not exist anymore either) I made reference to the name Breslau only to make the point that there is a large German population here. The same as other towns are largely made up of other ethnic groups. You figure it out! Discrimination goes on in all walks of life. there is always someone who dislikes someone who is different then themselves. It is called IGNORANCE.
________
Mercedes-Benz Om602 Engine History (http://www.mercedes-wiki.com/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_OM602_engine)

[FD]

I agree with educated. Symbols are symbols and you bring your own bias into your interpretation of said symbols. The Confederate Flag and the Swastika did not always mean slavery and Naziism. I hate to break this to people but the Civil War was not all about slavery, it was about states' rights. It wasnt the slave-loving North vs. the Evil South either. Lincoln could care less about the slaves. If he could win the war and keep all the slaves, he would have. If he could win the war and free some or all of the slaves, so be it. The slave issue was secondary to the issues of states' rights and of preserving the nation. The Confererate Flag is a symbol of a period in American history-- an important part of our American heritage-- no matter how hard you try to make yourself believe that that period never happened. The Confederate Flag stands for a group of States that seceded from the United States, not a bunch of evil white slaveowners. (By the way, blacks owned slaves too.....)
________
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[JeffR]

I think every board has one of these threads. Universal whining.

[YOUR]

Only this ENTIR board is "one of those threads".Every thread is "Universal whining"

[Patient]

I have often needed the response of this worthy institution. Trust me, I don't care what color your skin is. I don't care what holidays you celebrate. All I care about is that you are there for me. Thanks.

[female]

so symbols are just symbols- tell me if you were traveling down the road and someone gave you the "symbol" of his middle finger sticking up at you i am sure this would not enrage you at all would it? after all it is just a "symbol"--- many people have been killed for such a silly gesture or symbol as having been giving the middle finger.

[EDUCATED]

Actually, the middle finger is a "symbol" going back to medieval times when the French would cut off the middle finger of captured English longbowmen. To properly shoot a long bow, one needs the use of their middle finger, so the were effectively ensuring that these prisoners would never shoot another arrow at them if released. The French would then taunt the Brits by sticking their own middle fingers up at them, because they still had them. Just a piece of trivia.

[female]

so much for the history of your middle finger. however, you just proved that symbols have meanings. we all know the current meaning of sticking up the middle finger and it still pisses people off- (it has nothing to do with the loss of a finger to shoot an arrow) Symbols do have meaning whether or not you have knowledge of their history.

[unregistered]

Isn't it always the ones in power who cause the trouble? i don't know much about what happened to you but if you had the courage to stand up for what you believe in i applaud you. maybe if everyone stood up -just maybe they would learn a lesson.
________
Toyota Premio (http://www.toyota-wiki.com/wiki/Toyota_Premio)

[Male]

"How about being a female, black, oriental or Jew in a town formerly called Breslau?"

Ask the former Mayor. Females have it so tough in Lindenhurst. Waaaaa

[female]

typical answer from an uneducated male chauvinist pig!

[ghfd176]

Thank you for letting me know that their are still people out there supporting me. What needs to be done alover is that everyone STAND up and end it in ALL F/Depts. It only breathes because we allow it to live. Whenevr anyone hear racial coments no matter what report it, report it, and keep reporting it. If that doesn't work then go outside.

[Brush1]

I know the dept and truck in question. That rebel flag has been on the grille of that truck for over 10 years now. Most probrably don't even notice it anymore. I guess there all just Wacko too huh???? Seriously though the dept in question has many members of different racial backgrounds and none of them have ever been singled out or mistreated etc due to race. The dept in question is far from being racists. Being someone of color myself I am getting tired of people of my race when not happy about something or if they do not get there way, always playing the race card. It's no wonder why racism in this country still thrives.

[ExWacko]

The department in question as been an intergrated department for nearly 30 years and that member is still in the department, and there have been several to come after that, so saying that department even hints at racism is further from the truth.
Sounds like a couple guys with chips on their shoulders and maybe their lack of pure common sense cause them both problems.

[mmm hmmm]

mmmm hmmm!

[Rodney]

just get along?

[unregistered]

How do you know who has been discriminated against or who hasn't? Just because you have not been discriminated against does not mean that it has not pertained to someone else. People close their eyes to it if it does not affect them. Everyone discriminates against someone for some reason. If this were not true the world would be a wonderful place---just because you have not been a victim does not mean that it isn't happening! look outside yourself and you will see (that is-- if you want to see reality)
________
ASIAN AMERICAN (http://www.fucktube.com/categories/111/american/videos/1)

bump

bump

:roll:

[guest5]

:lol:

[fds]

:lol:

The rebel flag in this case has nothing to do with racism and we would appreciate it, if you did not bring your hatred into this department or community. It only signifies that we are rebels when it comes to fighting fires. While I am sure we don’t really fight fires any different then any other department we do have a sense of moral boost knowing we are the rebels and we are going to go in and kick some azz when it comes to fighting fires. We love and respect all our members of our department and community regardless or race, and as of yet have never discriminated anyone!!!!!! All members of our community are welcomed to join and together we will kick azz when it comes to fighting fires.

Thank You

I FIND IT HARD TO BELIEVE THAT PEOPLE ARE NOT BEING TURD AWAY FOR THE COLOR OF THEIR SKIN.I HAVE BEAN AROUND FOR A LONG TIME AND I HAVE SEAN A LOT OF THING DEPARTMENTS NOT RESPONDING TO NEIGHBORHOODS THAT ARE NOT ALL WHITE THOSE EMERGENCES GET HANDLED BY ANOTHER DEPARTMENT,BUT ONE MIN LATTER i SEE THEM GOING TO A CALL IN A WHITE PART OF TOWN I WONT SIT AND ARGUE IF THEIR IS DISCRIMINATION IN FIRE AND EMS BUT I THINK SOME EFFORT SHOULD BE PUT INTO BRINGING MORE COLOR INTO THE VOLLEY SYSTEM.

This is not a paid service, it is a volunteer agency. We do not need to be told we have to have minorities in our departments. ANYONE can volunteer. If you do not see many people of color, it is not because the fire departments are keeping them out. The doors are open, all they need to do is walk in and sign up. A black person can hold a hose just as good as a white person. One of the best things about the volleys is its vast mix of people of any religion, color, career, and education. If you did not see enough color in the adds for new members it is not because there is racism in the volleys, maybe with the advertising agency who made the commercials but not here. PLEASE do not bring your hate into our community we do not need it and do not want it. As another poster stated, her son was in the ads and if I understand her correctly her son must be of other then white. So you must have missed that ad.

People is the the wrong topic for this thread, it should be I am a raceist and don't mind letting people know. That person is right there is no need for this in our non-raceist group.

Like the police in blue we are the fire fighters in red. When one of our brothers or sisters get cut we all bleed red. The police on the other hand blead blue. I think there from outter space.

People is the the wrong topic for this thread, it should be I am a raceist and don't mind letting people know. That person is right there is no need for this in our non-raceist group.

Like the police in blue we are the fire fighters in red. When one of our brothers or sisters get cut we all bleed red. The police on the other hand blead blue. I think there from outter space.


My God, please learn to spell.

People is the the wrong topic for this thread, it should be I am a raceist and don't mind letting people know. That person is right there is no need for this in our non-raceist group.

Like the police in blue we are the fire fighters in red. When one of our brothers or sisters get cut we all bleed red. The police on the other hand blead blue. I think there from outter space.


My God, please learn to spell.

Editors Note: "how" was left out purposely. :)

I agree with educated. Symbols are symbols and you bring your own bias into your interpretation of said symbols. The Confederate Flag and the Swastika did not always mean slavery and Naziism. I hate to break this to people but the Civil War was not all about slavery, it was about states' rights. It wasnt the slave-loving North vs. the Evil South either. Lincoln could care less about the slaves. If he could win the war and keep all the slaves, he would have. If he could win the war and free some or all of the slaves, so be it. The slave issue was secondary to the issues of states' rights and of preserving the nation. The Confererate Flag is a symbol of a period in American history-- an important part of our American heritage-- no matter how hard you try to make yourself believe that that period never happened. The Confederate Flag stands for a group of States that seceded from the United States, not a bunch of evil white slaveowners. (By the way, blacks owned slaves too.....)

gee could this mean black people are racist too? nahhhhhhhhhhhh

I agree with educated. Symbols are symbols and you bring your own bias into your interpretation of said symbols. The Confederate Flag and the Swastika did not always mean slavery and Naziism. I hate to break this to people but the Civil War was not all about slavery, it was about states' rights. It wasnt the slave-loving North vs. the Evil South either. Lincoln could care less about the slaves. If he could win the war and keep all the slaves, he would have. If he could win the war and free some or all of the slaves, so be it. The slave issue was secondary to the issues of states' rights and of preserving the nation. The Confererate Flag is a symbol of a period in American history-- an important part of our American heritage-- no matter how hard you try to make yourself believe that that period never happened. The Confederate Flag stands for a group of States that seceded from the United States, not a bunch of evil white slaveowners. (By the way, blacks owned slaves too.....)

gee could this mean black people are racist too? nahhhhhhhhhhhh

Never. Just ask Al Sharpton, Alton Maddox, C. Vernon Mason, Yvette Clarke and Charles Barron.

"Things that make you go 'Hmmmmmmmmmm'

:lol:

:arrow:
:lol:
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UNprofessionals SUCK MOOSE CCK!!!!!













UNprofessionals SUCK MOOSE CCK!!!!!

















vollies suck




















UNprofessionals SUCK MOOSE CCK!!!!!

[Truth B Told]

["Listen, you obviously think that because it says volunteer that we have to take you. Guess again. When it comes to race, religion, sex, etc, we really don't care. We will take anybody,anytime. But, heres the big one, IF YOU CAN'T PERFORM THE BASIC FUNCTIONS OF THE SERVICE WHETHER IT BE EMS OR FIREFIGHTING, YOU SHOULD NOT BE HERE. IT IS A JOB, WHETHER YOU WANT TO SEE THAT OR NOT. YOUR PREVIOUS DEPARTMENT EXPERIENCE IS RELEVANT, YOUR CRIMINAL RECORD IS RELEVANT, YOUR ABILITY TO PERFORM THE BASIC FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB ARE RELEVANT.

We don't just need a set of hands, we need people who are willing and able to perform the duties and responsibilities of the job appropriately. We are responsible for providing you the appropriate training under NYS, we have to pay for insurance to cover you, and we have to purchase gear for you to use. All of costs money and time for someone who is just a pair of hands. We have enough of those already.

So, if your interested in the doing the job,come on in we love to have you. But you have to be willing to do the job". ]


It would be great if all departments were like this, but unfortunately some departments are ruled by dictators, men and women with little experience, who's heads swell when they put on a gold badge.
Mastic ambulance suspends members who respond, they don't want anyone to use the first response vehicle because then it won't be available for the "clik" crowd to use for thier runs to the fast food joints or personsonal errands.

[ill be allright]

:lol:

[boo hoo hoo]

:roll:


Register as a user THEN your posts cant be edited.

[why register]

THEN your posts cant be edited.

[why register]

.x

dickhead ?
Wow thats original. How bout this ?

If I was a dickhead i'd be in your mouth.

:lol:

go all the way to 3rd grade to write that? whats next something about mothers?

keep deleting.......... dickhead

I live in the town of brookhaven and I wonder why is it when I see posters for volunteer fire and ems people that I never see minorities?Does the town have any say in who gets to volunteer?Why is it that I don't see Any of the big red billboard's in minority neighborhoods?When I call 911 I think that their should be a wide spectrum of people and I think that the town should start putting some time and money into trying to bring in a little more diversity.

We'll let anyone join come on down!

[justin john]

play nice

ok

[Unregisteredjjj]

3Thou shalt have no other gods before me.
4Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. 5Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; 6And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.
7Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.
8Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. 9Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: 10But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: 11For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.
12Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.
13Thou shalt not kill.
14Thou shalt not commit adultery.
15Thou shalt not steal.
16Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.
17Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour's