Unlike your kids or your dogs, when you call them, they come! I am talking about the 1000+ men and women who make up the Anne Arundel County Fire Department! Sure, the department is an arm of the County Government, but the IAFF Local 1563 is the Union that collectively bargains for their pay and benefits, makes sure that they are staffed safely, and they are getting the support they need. After all, they see some pretty horrid things in the course of their duty!
Today, we speak with Joe Addivinola, the long-time President of IAFF Local 1563, to see how the union plays a role. And, it is a lot larger than I imagined! From literacy campaigns to coat drives, our Firefighters, EMTs, and Paramedics go all out for the community when they are not working that 24 on 3 off shift! Did you know that the Union owns a four-story building in Millersville? Did you know there is a huge banquet room that can be rented out? Did you know they are a nonprofit, and you can donate directly to support their work? Me either! Joe even lets us know his thoughts about Anne Arundel County Executive Pittman!
This was a VERY enlightening conversation and some insight into the men and women who put the wet stuff on the red stuff!
Have a listen!
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