Pax_Centurion_Nov_Dec_2006

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Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association, Inc. Boston Emergency Medical Technicians Nation’s First Police Department • Established 1854 • IUPA Local 16807, AFL-CIO

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 PO Terry Burke, front center, was given a hero’s welcome in South Boston and at District 6.

(See related story on page A21)

The advertisers of the Pax Centurion do not necessarily endorse the opinions of the Pax Centurion/Boston Police Patrolmen's Association. The advertisers are in support of the BPPA Scholarship Fund and every patrolmen who risks his or her life to protect and serve the community.

EMTs and Paramedics protest mismanagement

Bargaining update: “Deja vu, all over again” BPPA patience nearly exhausted

By Jim Carnell, Pax Editor See related story/photos on pages B1 and B7.

New Comm. Ed Davis Arrives: Cites importance of “sitting down with command staff and the community”… (but not the patrol force?)

By Jim Carnell, Pax Editor

New Boston Police Commissioner Ed Davis was sworn in on December 1st at a ceremony held at a community school in Mattapan. Of course, the BPPA welcomes our new Commissioner with the traditional hearty welcome that has always been extended to all new BPD Police Commissioners.

We look forward to working with Comm. Davis in a cooperative and mutually beneficial way. It is our desire that management and labor will work together to fight crime and improve the best police department in the country.( INSERT BOILERPLATE GREETING HERE.)

The ceremony itself featured the obligatory inspiring speeches set amid the backdrop of row upon row of mayors, politicians, police chiefs, superintendents, deputies, assorted Bolivian Colonels, and a retinue of servile flatterers awaiting appointment to a plethora of plum, bureaucratic positions. Long lines of ring-kissers and Koolaid-drinkers formed awaiting their opportunity to ingratiate themselves to the new Commissioner.

The Globe published a handsome photo of diverse members of the clergy conferring their blessings upon Comm. Davis, including Catholic continued on page A7

AS PRESS TIME CLOSED IN ON THIS ISSUE OF THE PAX, (December 13th) the BPPA bargaining committee, composed of President Tom Nee, VP Ron MacGillivray, Area B-2 Rep. Dave Fitzgerald, Area A-1 Rep. Brian Reaney and Gang Unit Rep. Tom Pratt, prepared to once again meet with the city’s bargaining committee in an attempt to reach a negotiated settlement. The BPPA contract expired July 1st, 2006, and virtually all of the city’s employees, including teachers, firefighters, and EMTs now labor under expired contracts.

Of course, as public employees who are prohibited from striking or engaging in work slowdowns, neither the media nor the general public appear to be the least bit interested in contract matters affecting us. (The prevailing attitude appears to be “Screw them, they’re lucky to have jobs. They just better be here when we need them…”) Without delving into specifics, health insurance is the major impediment in this round of negotia-

tions. There is, without question, a move afoot to somehow place the blame for health insurance cost increases on the backs of public employees. (See related article in this issue about Sam Tyler and the Municipal Research Bureau). It does not take a math major to figure out that if the city offers us, for example, a 2% pay raise but your health insurance costs increased by 10 or 20%, then you’ve actually been offered a pay decrease.

The BPPA has at our disposal experts in the health insurance field and we have offered innovative, cost-saving proposals to the city, but there appears to be little desire to compromise on the part of the City. Lisa Signori, the Mayor’s budget director, loathes unions and is focused solely on maintaining the city’s bond rating; her eye being on future employment prospects and the accompanying resume highlighting her cost-cutting, union-bashing initiatives. Patience is nearing an end, however, and other alternatives will have to be explored continued on page A7

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

EMS Division Unity & Strength

City EMTs and Paramedics protest mismanagement

The Devil Inside: Silence, apathy and the fear of change, a recipe for inaction

By Joseph Amaral, paramedic 155, and Gregory Bond, paramedic 216

By Jay Weaver, Paramedic 149

For four days last month, members of Boston’s EMT and paramedic union took to the sidewalks, marching with signs and chanting slogans.

This labor action was unusual, however, in that it had nothing to do with pay or benefits. According to union president Jamie Orsino, the city’s emergency medical services (EMS) agency has been so badly mismanaged that the members of the service no longer understand who is in charge.

“The Boston Public Health Commission is incapable and disinterested in the efficient operation of a service that is vital to the public safety of the city of Boston,” Orsino said from the picket line in front of Boston Public Health Commission, 1010 Mass. Ave. “The people of Boston deserve better.”

The 300-member EMS Division of the Boston Police Patrolman’s Association has long expressed fear about the chaotic manner in which Boston EMS has been managed. The situation has grown so bad, union officials say, that this week’s protests finally became necessary.

“We don’t even know who we work for,” union president Orsino says. “Since 1995, we’ve been told that we work for the city one day, and the Boston Public Health Commission the next.”

The Boston Public Health Com-

mission is a quasi-state authority that operates a number of health-related programs, including Boston EMS, on behalf of the city.

“Just last week, the Public Health Commission flip-flopped on a policy that’s been in existence since 1998,” Orsino says. “For a long time they refused to discuss the matter with us.

Then, when we finally set up a meeting, they backed out at the last minute.”

According to the union, this incident is typical of the way the Boston Public Health Commission now deals with its EMTs and paramedics. “Dishonesty is the norm, not the exception,” Orsino says. “The only way this protest relates to collective bargaining is that in negotiating, both parties need to bring integrity, honesty, respect, and trust to the table. The Boston Public Health Commission proves on a daily basis that they don’t even have a fundamental understanding of what these words mean. Their actions the other day (in backing out of the meeting) have left the members of our association without the ability to clearly identify the leadership at Boston EMS.” Union vice president Bob Morley echoes this sentiment. “There’s a total lack of integrity on their part,” he said, momentarily putting down his sign. “Pointing a finger at the next guy is not a form of integrity.” additional photos on page B7

There’s an old saying that goes: The devil you know is better than the one you don’t. Naysayers and skeptics often use this phrase whenever talk of change or reform in our department is brought up.

Indeed it has become an attitude that, as if by design, has become an ever-present harbinger of doom, held over our collective heads like a dark cloud specter threatening to consume us if we don’t behave, keep our mouths shut, and do our jobs without question.

Common sense dictates the fact that we as a department have become indispensable to the citizens of this city.

And yet, while under the auspices of the BPHC for the last 10 years, we have become a stagnant entity, held hostage by a parent organization with little understanding of the crucial role

we perform and with no interest in furthering our goal to provide the best medical care to the public.

Acting more like a private forprofit corporation as opposed to a municipal agency, they issue catch phrases like “customer satisfaction” when they should be more concerned with “quality patient care”; and becoming “revenue neutral” rather than deploying much needed and overdue resources to the streets.

This was no more evident than when they threatened to lay off over a third of our city’s ambulance personnel last year as if they were slashing the budget for some non-essential health care program.

From our own front office we have endured a hierarchy which has lost sight of what is truly important: saving lives.

Instead, they have become more preoccupied with towing the comcontinued on page B3

We Remember

Phillip P. McGovern, Jr., M.D. June 11, 1934 – October 20, 2006

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

“Over 50 Years of Housing Excellence” Beacon Residential Management and over 1,600 families living in our Boston communities...

Wish to thank the Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association for its outstanding support of our neighborhoods, residents and communities.

150 Federal Street Boston, Massachusetts 02110 Tel: (617) 574-1150 FAX: (617) 338-4346

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

EMS Division “The Bronx in a nutshell”: A glimpse of life at FDNY EMS

By Gregory Bond, Paramedic 216

On a recent visit to the Big Apple I decided to interrupt my vacation for a little extracurricular work. Hopping the Number 4 train uptown from Brooklyn to Manhattan in the mid-morning rush hour, I squeezed in among the throng of commuters on their way to work on a typical Wednesday.

As the masses filtered off and the eventually exited en masse at Grand Central Station, I continued north to 149th St Grand Concourse Station in the heart of the Bronx. Departing the subway, I made my way to the surface street on this particularly balmy yet overcast day. Walking a block over the tangled mess of train tracks below, I found myself standing in the shadows of the Lincoln Medical Center, home to FDNY EMS Battalion 14.

I was there to meet my

The Devil Inside continued from page B1

pany line in a desperate bid for self-preservation.

Ultimately going so far as to mislead the powers-that-be of our needs and capabilities out of fear of exposing their own ineptitude and mismanagement.

As a result, we have seen within our own ranks an alarming rate of attrition and employee turnover at all levels of certification and years of service; in such a specialized field where dedication and long term experience has proven to bring the best care into peoples’ homes.

It is high time for change.

To the EMTs/paramedics of the City of Boston, we need to fulfill our destiny.

We must stop doubting ourselves and get away from that attitude which prevents us from acting upon our beliefs for fear that it could backfire or blow up in our faces.

For far too long have we

“host” for the day, a man named Joseph Conzo whom I had spoken with earlier on the phone. Joe had taken time out of his busy day to accommodate me and, as it turned out, I couldn’t have asked for a better tour guide.

Joe is a 14-year veteran EMT of the city service, both in FDNY and NYC/EMS before that. Born and raised in the Bronx, he served five years in the Army as a combat medic for the elite 82nd Airborne regiment before beginning his career on the ambulance.

Over the last eight or nine years, Joe has been heavily involved in the Union and currently serves as the treasurer and “number 3 guy” on sat back and done nothing in the hopes that somebody, someday would finally realize the essential nature of our job.

Along with police and fire, we are the caretakers of this great city.

We need to recognize that nobody is going to give us what we want for nothing.

We need to act together and get it for ourselves.

For many, we realized our own power last month when we came together on the sidewalks to demonstrate the unfair treatment that we have been subject to.

Now we need to continue that momentum and take it to the next level.

With risk there is always a chance of failure; that is the essential nature of risk.

Consequently, with risk can come great reward, and if we continue to do nothing, then nothing is what we shall get.

This is your wake-up call.

the executive board.

I sensed from the interactions with his colleagues that he was very well respected both for his friendliness and a self-described “no nonsense” style of dealing with management and the membership alike.

After introducing me around to a few of his coworkers, Joe explained that Battalion 14 was an “Attach”

station, approp r i a t e l y named because it was attached to a hospital, in this case Lincoln.

Anywhere from five to seven ambulances operated out of the station in staggered shifts, breaking down roughly to 4-5 BLS and 1-2 ALS units. The ambulances, or “buses” as they’re referred to in New York, operate similar to ours: running 8-hour tours in a 3-shift rotation between days/eves/ nights.

As we entered the doors of the ED, Joe explained that Lincoln was a full Trauma Center, akin to the Level 1 classification we have in Boston. Able to handle any ma-

We’ve come so far?

By Roberta Rumsis, Paramedic 211

On the evening of May 18, 1987 Chronicle aired an episode dedicated to Boston EMS. Co-hosted by Peter Mehegan and Mary Richardson, it featured Mike Barnicle as narrator with footage and interviews featuring several Paramedics and EMTs. The following partial transcript is a fascinating illustration of what has and has not changed in 20 years. “…in Boston traffic getting to you and getting you to the emergency room is not an easy job. But for Boston’s 150 paramedics and emergency medical technicians it’s a way of life.

“There are 9 EMT trucks on the day shift and three advanced paramedic units.

“The EMTs and paramedics make more calls each year

than the Boston Fire Department: 70,000 a year.

“This is a fairly typical day. The unit has been going flat out. 146 EMTs and 22 paramedics divided among three shifts and 12 trucks do not go very far. And it is fairly common for the system to overload; calling private ambulances. “ The fact is, depending on whose estimate you listen to this city’s ambulance resources are 15-30 percent below par. The resources include a bit more than the ambulances, of course. They include the people who drive them. As a result of being under, the people who do indeed work these ambulances work incredibly long hours. In the last 24-hour cycle Richie Serino has worked 16 out of 24.

“The average response time is 7 minutes. Ideally, for Serino, it should be 5.

jor trauma or major medical situation, Joe stated that if he ever got into any trouble, he would want to end up at Lincoln.

Expressing frustration that we’ve all felt in the past, Joe related the problems in dealing with the widespread abuse of the system, especially surrounding the inappropriate use of the service by the public, the misconceptions of prompt ED care and the “mystery” of triage as opposed to first come-first served.

From there we jumped in Joe’s SUV and were off to our next destination. Sitting in traffic on the Cross Bronx Expressway, I pressed Joe with questions about the state of the department in the ten years since the “merger” with FDNY. Surprising to me, I found continued on page B5

“The work that these people do is incredible and the interesting thing is that a lot of people just think of them as ambulance drivers.

Or they think that EMTs and paramedics are the same thing.

“If we had a major disaster in Boston we are undermanned. If there was an explosion: a LNG tanker explosion or a plane crash we really don’t have the resources to keep up with something like that. So there’s a budget squeeze there as well. The need is there.

“We did 17 calls in an 8 hour period.

“You know we take them for granted… but Boston’s EMTs are really considered the elite in other cities. In terms of their training, the way they are scrutinized.

They are used to train other ambulance crews. They offer courses. So really the city had cause to be proud of these folks. Indeed a top group.”

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EMS Division A glimpse of life at FDNY EMS continued from page B31

Joe’s attitude to be very tempered and more laid back than what I had anticipated from all of the stories I’d heard and websites I have read over the years. His approach lay in simply accepting the fact that what’s done is done, he has no control over the past so just deal with it, make the best, and move on.

He admitted as much to me that there still was some bad blood that existed between the “suppression” side and the EMS division of the department, but that relations were improving, albeit slowly.

His insight highlighted the differing mentalities and cultures inherent within the two job categories. Whereas “suppression” is used to operating and thinking on a group level with an officer giving an order to be followed by his squad; EMS personnel are taught and trained to be individual thinkers, capable of making critical decisions that affect the safety and welfare of their patients, their partners and ultimately themselves.

Some of the more troubling changes that came with the takeover dealt with outsourcing of districts to private or hospital based ambulance services for their primary 9-1-1 coverage.

Unfortunately, that led to accountability issues such as a general lack of standardization of training, education and qualification of the prehospital providers operating under the auspices of the EMS umbrella.

Other problems that arose with outside agencies were the lack of coordination and clarification of a proper chain of command and control, particularly when dealing with multiple casualty incidents or hectic scenes.

Joe noted that they are still fighting to reclaim many of the districts “lost” to the privates, and making some

strides in their efforts, but admits that they still have a ways to go.

As far as point-of-entry, privates tended to steer their patients toward their parent hospitals instead of the patient’s chosen hospital, and in some cases the most appropriate specialty centers.

City ambulances on the other hand, while not bound to such constricting guidelines, did abide by the “10 minute rule,” not able to transport a patient more than 10 minutes outside of their assigned district unless the condition of the patient dictated otherwise.

Although relations with the firefighters can be at times strained, Joe stated that the relations with the NYPD police officers are excellent. He equated this to his time in the military where soldiers, much like cops, recognize and realize that if ever they were to get injured during the course of their jobs, the medics would be there to save their lives.

We discussed ongoing union issues and I found that despite some of the less-thanfavorable work conditions which they worked under, they had made great strides in procuring some of the respect and benefits to which we have yet been afforded or recognized.

In addition to the Line of Duty Injury (LODI) benefits to which we have only recently acquired in the last year, they are afforded full benefits in the event of a Line of Duty Death (LODD), which we are currently denied.

Furthermore, they are entitled to the “Heart and Lung” bill if they should ever become afflicted with a longterm cardiac or respiratory illness as a result of their employment. A luxury indeed that we may not see anytime in the near future thanks in part to the ignorance and shortsightedness of our employers.

Regarding their retirement benefits, I found that we are also sorely lacking in comparison. Although they too used to have a group plan similar to our current state in Group 2, they have ascended that two fold.

They first moved into a category of 25 years service/ 55 years of age. From there, and as it stands now, they work 25 years straight service and out, no age requirement.

Furthermore, they are currently working to get into a twenty year service plan/no age, similar to what the NYPD is operating under.

Clearly these are more realistic plans as set forth by politicians who realize the sacrifices made by the dedicated individuals serving the city.

When asked about these gains, Joe stated that they had been hard fought and won by the union alone, with little to no help from outside agencies or influences in the FDNY or upper management, a concept I had no trouble understanding.

I finally got around to asking Joe about 9/11, and although his mood turned slightly more somber and serious, he didn’t hesitate to tell me his story.

On the morning of September 11th, 2001, Joe and his partner were working their usual assigned district in the Bronx when the first plane hit WTC Tower 1. They were dispatched and traversed the city, arriving at the scene just

after the second airliner struck WTC Tower 2. After staging their vehicle 2-3 blocks from the towers they grabbed their equipment and headed into the fray. They soon found themselves working at a triage/treatment area which had been set up inside the Marriot hotel located at the base of the towers when they collapsed.

Trapped in the rubble for almost an hour, Joe was able to evacuate himself with a number of firefighters and civilians along with his partner, who had suffered multiple fractures and injuries, but alive.

Although Joe emerged relatively unscathed physically, he states that mentally he suffered from PTSD and a “survivor’s guilt” which still plagues him to this day.

We arrived at the Battalion 20 “Jacobi” station, home to the Division 2 HQ and the largest station in the five boroughs. Situated next to Jacobi Medical Center between northern Manhattan and the South Bronx, Battalion 20 operates upwards of 75 ambulances out of its doors. In addition to the Div 2 headquarters element, it houses the Resource Coordination Center (RCC) which oversees the both dispatch and field operations assignments on a daily basis.

Our day ended at Station 18 in the Bronx, Joe’s home base and one of the few “free standing” ambulances houses in the city. While Joe went in-

side to take care of some paperwork, I milled around outside, poking my head inside the ambulances and noting some of the similarities and differences.

As expected, the equipment carried on the trucks is relatively the same, although sometimes stored in different places. The one exception I took note of was the presence of two Scott Airpacks located on the shelf.

I asked Joe about this and he told me that in recent years there has been a lot of money and effort spent towards procuring and training the members in Personnel Protective Equipment (PPE). Although the decision to wear the gear is an individual one, many feel very strongly about having everything on hand with them at all times, a lesson they learned the hard way.

As we left the station and headed back to the subway, we talked about the future of EMS and some of the common obstacles facing us. I found that we shared many of the same attitudes toward the job and survival strategies in the business of prehospital medicine.

More than anything, Joe and I agreed that what we

More than anything, Joe and I agreed that what we were seeking was respect. were seeking was respect.

Respect not only from the public-at-large, but also from our fellow public safety agencies and from politicians who need to recognize our sacrifices.

It was refreshing for me to see that despite the many differences that may exist between our two systems, the roles and responsibilities are the same as is the level of dedication of the people that perform them.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

EMS Division City EMTs and Paramedics protest mismanagement (see related story, pg. 1)

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We appreciate all the good work of the Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association.

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Manchester Mourns a Hero

By Mark A. Bruno The recent funeral for Manchester Police Officer Michael L. Briggs was held with dignity and class. The City of Manchester should hold their heads high for a job well done. Many fellow officers from Boston attended and each will tell you what a wonderful Solemn Ceremony it was in honor of Officer Briggs. The Manchester Police Department paid Officer Briggs homage, and showed his family the ultimate respect that is befitting of a hero. For me it was a textbook way of how a funeral for a fallen officer should be held.

Coming off my midnight shift I was debating if I was up for the drive to Manchester and back. Fatigue sometimes dictates what we are capable of enduring at times and this day was no different.

Lucky for me I bumped into Officer Liz Philbin, whom I believe has not missed many funerals for fallen officers.

Her attendance at these events is always heartfelt. As long as I’ve known her, she has always respected her fellow fallen officers and their families. I’d like to thank her personally for driving me up

and back. For me being there to support this fallen officer’s family meant a lot.

The first thing I noticed was that the main streets were all shut down. As we walked to take our place in line the people of Manchester were thanking us for honoring their fallen son, of course the honor was all ours. People from all over lined the streets to view this solemn procession, many of them holding signs of thanks and American flags. The procession was about two-and-a-half miles in length and wound through downtown Manchester ’s main streets. There were officers from all over the country who came to pay their respects, some came from Canada. It looked to be well over 5000 officers who attended. The contingent of motorcycles was most impressive.

As the procession made its way through Manchester, officers who were being led by cadence. A riderless horse along with Officer Briggs’s mountain bike attached to a Manchester Police cruiser led the way. Along the route many professions’ came to pay their respects. The

Firefighters had their extended ladders up with an American flag hanging in the middle. Officers saluted Old Glory as they passed under.

Firefighters and EMTs lined the front of their stations.

Many of them marched in the procession as well. It is a mutual respect unparalleled in either profession. Security guards, tow truck drivers, public works and many others line the procession route to pay homage. A group of bikers with their motorcycles held American flags to honor Officer Briggs. The officers in my platoon were most impressed by this show of support, and one Sergeant ordered for all to present arms as we passed them. You had to acknowledge anyone that came out to pay their respects to Officer Briggs and his family. This is the ultimate compliment a city can give to a fallen hero.

At the end of the procession officers were led into Merchant’s Ballfield which filled up quickly. The Color Guards from several departments, including our own, lined the outfield fence all around. The police horses could be seen peeking in from

A cure for crime

By P.O. Carstairs Arbuthnot, PhD.

Our city is descending into an abyss of violence and neither our pale and exhausted criminal justice system nor the hollow strategy of community policing can stem Boston’s perilous plunge. A new means must be found to create an environment where law-abiding citizens and the police officers who enforce the laws are rewarded with freedom from fear, orderly tranquility and praise and those who create crime and violence suffer the consequences of their actions swiftly and surely.

I have discovered this new means and it actually predates English common law. It is rooted in the legalist school of classic Chinese philosophy, which is based upon a ruler following three tenets: shih – power and position; shu – methods; fa – laws. The ruler,

in our case, His Mumbleness, has the authority to use the police to enforce the laws. Fortunately for the mayor, this Chinese philosophy placed little importance on the virtue and wisdom of a ruler: shih, power and position were all that mattered. But the ruler must reward without restraint those who enforce and obey the laws and must punish without mercy those who break the laws. We have enough fa, laws: it only remains to change shu, the methods we use to enforce the laws.

The courts should be a venue of fairness and social justice, not a legal playground where murderers, rapists, drug dealers, etc… can be released on legal technicalities or where some unscrupulous lawyer can bamboozle a jury of morons.

If a law is broken then the punishment must be “severe and inevitable”. A legalist philosopher, Shang Yang stated: “Small faults should be punished severely; then, if small faults are inhibited, great crimes will not appear.

This is called using punishment to get rid of punishment.” This attitude might be tough on jaywalkers or disorderly persons but the safety of the entire community from serious criminals is more important.

An entire generation has been brought up under the philosophy of Community Policing and it is as violent, if not more so, than the generation that spawned it. Let Boston try classical Chinese Legalism for a generation and then compare notes.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 the outfield fence. It was a scene to behold. As a sea of officers filled in the seats the scoreboard began to show pictures of Officer Briggs. Everyone stood watching. At one point an audio clip was played in which one of Officer Briggs’s sons stated he liked playing ball with his dad.

This, along with the rest of the clips were enough to make even a hardened officer shed a tear. I don’t think there was a dry eye in the place. The final clip which stood throughout the ceremony was a picture of Officer Briggs which read “Our Fallen Hero, Officer Michael L. Briggs, 19712006.

As the hearse was backed in from the right field, a contingent of pallbearers prepared themselves to carry the flag draped casket to home plate. How apropos that this ballfield, which is a rite of passage in many ways, should be the final stop for this fallen hero. As the casket was put in place an officer marched solemnly over towards it and placed Officer Briggs’s police hat on top.

Officers looked at Laura Briggs the widow who was hugging her two sons Brian and Mitchell. Both boys eleven and eight years of age were wearing their dad’s police shirts. I could not imagine what must have been going through the minds of these poor boys who had their whole world snatched away.

Everyone had a lump in their throat watching these children clutching their mom who barely had the strength to hold her own.

The Reverend James R. Young, Sr. presided over the ceremony and spoke words of wisdom to comfort the family of Officer Briggs. Several politicians along with the Manchester Police Chief spoke of the tragedy and the dangers that officers face everyday. There was no grandstanding by any of these individuals, just heartfelt words for the Briggs family and those in attendance. Professional and eloquent speeches were given by all them. Following the speeches Jimmy Lehoux (musician) came forward with his six-string-guitar. He stated he was a simple man and respected the job that Officer Briggs had done

for the town of Manchester.

He offered his condolences to the family and the many officers in attendance. Like a scene out of the Little Drummer Boy, Jimmy Lehoux strummed his guitar and played a song by Vince Gill called Go Rest High. If not for the wind blowing you could hear a pin drop during this beautiful tribute.

The sisters of Officer Briggs paid tribute to their brother. Each one had a story to tell and tears in their eyes by the end of that story. Tracie, Melisa and Sarah Briggs were all very proud of their brother and all that he had accomplished in his short life. They described him as being unselfish, a good husband and father, and always looking to help those in need. This is how they wanted their brother to be remembered.

The “Policeman’s Prayer” was read and a eulogy was given by Officer John Breckinridge and Officer Nate Linstad. These officers were very close to Officer Briggs and had some nice stories to tell. They both were choked up with emotion by the end of their speeches. Losing a partner takes its toll and for sure these officers were hurting. They both stated that Officer Briggs is the role model that every officer should emulate as they go about their work.

A final blessing was given and the New Hampshire Police Association Pipes and Drums played a medley of Amazing Grace, America, and the Marine Corp Hymn.

Watching the drummers play so solemnly was very touching to all. A moment of silence followed and two helicopters flew over the stadium. An officer slowly marched over to the casket and removed Officer Briggs’s hat and slowly walked to the side. The pallbearers slowly carried the flag-draped-casket back to the hearse while officers presented arms. The ceremony had concluded with dignity, respect and a somber feeling for all. Officer Briggs was a son, a brother, a husband, a father, a friend, a Marine and a Manchester Police Officer.

Finally, our heartfelt condolence goes out to the Briggs family.

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The Boston Police Department Peer Support Unit We are a peer driven support program for police officers and their families Our program is strictly confidential and is available to all police officers and their families Group or individual help with handling family and life issues alcohol drugs anger and domestic issues Referral for specialist as needed

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What we protect is important.

What they protect is priceless.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

A cheerful thought at Christmas

By Kevin Doogan Christmas is the time for giving, for giving presents to family and to friends, to loved ones and to those less fortunate than us. You’ll see the Salvation Army out braving the cold and winter storms stoically ringing their school bells for loose change to help the poor. It is also this time of year that charities of all kinds come-a-calling.

Before you fork over anymore of your hard-earned cash for medical research, bear this in mind. Ask yourself what is the last disease that medical science has cured? I mean cured not treated but actually cured and eradicated from being a threat to the public. If my information is correct I believe the last disease that was cured was Polio, and that was in the 1940s or ‘50s. That’s right, medical science hasn’t been able to cure one thing since then! They can treat countless diseases, allowing people to live with what was once a death sentence. Life threatening diseases have been reduced to such a state that people afflicted with them can suffer though life for countless years as long as they take these medications or these treatments or these operations. It struck me that if medical science can treat a disease why can’t they cure it? Could it be because no one would get rich if they cured it? Just think what would happen to Johnson & Johnson, Vicks, Bayer and all the drug companies if the common cold was cured? Where would the CEO’s of these companies get their dough, what would happen to the stock?

We have the ability to take a human heart out of a person’s chest, stop it, fix it and put it back but we can’t come up with a pill or vitamin to keep it healthy so you don’t need the operation? We put men on the moon but we can’t cure obesity. AIDS killed millions or more but now those with AIDS can live a long painful life with

the disease but they can’t cure it. I could go on forever with examples like cancer, diabetes, and Crohn’s disease. How many millions or billions of dollars have been donated to Jerry’s kids, yet those crippled kids are still suffering. I have reached the opinion that big business and the political lobbyists run this country. Everything seems to be gauged on where the big buck is going to stop and on whose desk. Just look at the oil business and the car manufacturers. How long has it been since the Hydrogen bomb was invented? We have had the technology to split atoms and convert energy for decades yet we still rely on oil. Do you mean to tell me with three fourths of this planet being salt water, with water containing hydrogen, you know H2O, and we can’t harness it for fuel? Doesn’t sound feasible to me and I’m not a conspiracy theorist. I do however feel bad for the millions of people across the world that suffer with these diseases and afflictions that I know in my heart medical science could cure. These afflictions and diseases could be cured if medical science wanted to or were allowed to. I believe big business and political pressure won’t have any part of risking or upsetting the economy and or the rich.

So as for me, I’m not giving to charities that spend most of their money on salaries and CEOs. We have given trillions of dollars to charities; maybe the answer is to stop giving. If it isn’t profitable maybe they’ll just cure it for the final push and move on.

The medical profession is almost like a drug dealer; they’ll give you the first one for free and catch up with you on the comeback. Just like the auto industry, car manufacturers make much more money on car parts that they ever do on car sales, again catching you on the come back.

Merry Christmas & give at home.

Civil War Trivia

By Bill Carroll

Liberty Mutual is proud to support the men and women of the Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association who protect our communities every day.

1. What state was the Confederate prison camp Andersonville located in?

2. What state was the first to erect a monument in memory of the sacrifices made by soldiers from that state that were held captive at Andersonville?

3. Where was the largest Union prison camp located during the Civil War? 4. Who was the first American to become a full Admiral in the U.S. Navy?

5. What U.S. city did not celebrate the 4th of July for over 80 years after the Civil War? answers on page B23

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

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What really ticks me off Is…

By Mark A. Bruno What really ticks me off is when you take a non-redline detail on a side street and the contractor informs you that they need to go out onto Dorchester Ave. or Mass Ave. and Melnea Cass Blvd., this really ticks me off. What really ticks me off while doing these details are the motorists who are not paying attention to your directions because they are on their cellphones or putting on make-up. Pedestrians tick me off while doing these details also. They stand there and wait for you to cross them instead of crossing themselves. Not only do they want to be crossed, but they do not want you to interrupt the conversation they’re having on their cellphones. This really ticks me off.

What really ticks me off is when drug-sick prisoners decide they want to go for a trip to the hospital because they’re locked up for the weekend, this really ticks me off. What really ticks me off is when these prisoners call 911 from their cells to request this service.

If they weren’t locked up would they be in the hospital? Not! What ticks me off is that when you get to the hospital you have a bleeding-heart liberal doctor who wants to coddle this miscreant. I usually ask the doctor if he could give the cattle prod treatment

to the prisoner in order to speed up the recovery process but I get a dirty look instead. The dirty look is usually followed by a notification to the doctor that the prisoner is a gang-banger whose friends were seen in and around the hospital area, and that they may try to spring him with automatic weapons because he made a call on the hospital courtesy hot line telling them where he is. Can you say an expedient prognosis and release?

What really ticks me off is when I get ordered for work and I have something to do, that really ticks me off.

What ticks me off is that the supervisor calling me is using his own cell-phone so I won’t recognize the number. Can you say leave a message after the beep? What really ticks me off is when I want to work and the phone line in the detail room is busy or the answering machine is on. I swear the forces of evil are working against me.

What really ticks me off being the people who buy five sick days back a year, this really ticks me off. I swear if I had the right job in the right office up at headquarters I could buy back five days a year till I retire. What really ticks me off are the five and ten day letters that officers receive for these infractions. I would personally like to

THE BOSTON CONSULTING GROUP Proudly supports the Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association Scholarship Fund

www.bcg.com

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 contract a doctor to write up the sick notes required for each subsequent absence after ten. In these notes I would say that Officer Overworked and Underpaid is having potty problems and is currently holding onto handlebars for dear life. This should dispense the bull crap with these annoying letters, or it may elicit a phone call. Can you say leave a message after the beep?

What really ticks me off are those late annoying 911 calls that are pains in the derriere, which really ticks me off. You know the calls I’m talking about. The call where the lady’s 15-year-old kid is missing for three days and they just decided to report it. Hello, have you

been in a coma for three days? Oh I’m sorry, you have been high on drugs for three days and assumed your kid was in their room all this time. Silly me. Can I please get some infor…(My cell-phone rings in the middle of this interview). Please excuse me while I take this call telling me my detail has been moved to a redline, and that I have been ordered to work the parade this Sunday, and that I need to sign my ten-day sick letter before the end of my shift which will take place after I file this stupid missing (probably shacked up with their junkie significant other) kid report. Now that is really what ticks me off!

Bicyclists pay tribute to State Trooper Mark Charbonier, killed in the line of duty, at his memorial along Route 3 in Kingston.

Compliments of a Friend Hallkeen Property

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Judge’s sentencing remarks to shoe-bomber Reid Remember the guy who got on a plane with a bomb built into his shoe and tried to light it?

Did you know his trial is over? Did you know he was sentenced? Did you see/hear any of the judge’s comments on TV or Radio?

Didn’t think so.

Everyone should hear what the judge had to say: Ruling by Judge William Young, US District Court: Prior to sentencing, the Judge asked the defendant if he had anything to say. His response: After admitting his guilt to the court for the record, Reid also admitted his “allegiance to Osama bin Laden, to Islam, and to the religion of Allah,” defiantly stating, “I think I will not apologize for my actions,” and told the court “I am at war with your Country.”

Judge Young then delivered the statement quoted below: January 30, 2003, United States vs.

Reid. Judge Young: “Mr. Richard C. Reid, hearken now to the sentence the Court imposes upon you.

On counts 1, 5 and 6 the Court sentences you to life in prison in the custody of the United States Attorney General. On counts 2, 3, 4 and 7, the Court sentences you to 20 years in prison on each count, the sentence on each count to run consecutively.

(That’s 80 years.)

On count 8, the Court sentences you to the mandatory 30 years again, to be served consecutively to the 80 y ears just imposed. The Court imposes upon you for each of the eight counts a fine of $250,000 that’s an aggregate fine of $2 million. The Court accepts the government’s recommendation with respect to restitution and orders restitution in the amount of $298.17 to Andre Bousquet and $5,784 to American A irlines.

The Court imposes upon you an $800 special assessment.

The Court imposes upon you five years supervised release simply be-

cause thelaw requires it. But the life sentences are real life sentences so I need go no further.

This is the sentence that is provided for by our statutes. It is a fair and just sentence. It is a righteous sentence.

Now, let me explain this to you.

We are not afraid of you or any of your terrorist co-conspirators, Mr. Reid. We are Americans. We have been through the fire before. There is too much war talk here and I say that to everyone with the utmost respect. Here in this court, we deal with individuals as individuals and care for individuals as individuals. As human beings, we reach out for justice.

You are not an enemy combatant.

You are a terrorist. You are not a soldier in any war. You are a terrorist. To give you that reference, to call you a soldier, gives you far too much stature. Whether the officers of government do it or your attorney does it, or if you think you are a soldier. You are not—you are a terrorist. And we do not negotiate with terrorists. We do not meet with terrorists. We do not sign documents with terrorists. We hunt them down one by one and bring them to justice.

So war talk is way out of line in this court. You are a big fellow. But you are not that big. You’re no warrior. I’ve known warriors. You are a terrorist. A species of criminal that is guilty of multiple attempted murders.

In a very real sense, State Trooper Santiago had it right when you first were taken off that plane and into custody and you wondered where the press and the TV crews were, and he said: “You’re no big deal.”

You are no big deal.

What your able counsel and what the equally able United States attorneys have grappled with and what I have as honestly as I know how tried to grapple with, is why you did something so horrific. What was it that led you here to this courtroom today?

I have listened respectfully to what you have to say. And I ask you to search your heart and ask yourself

wanted Pictures and stories The academy is seeking copies of class graduation pictures. These pictures will be displayed on the first floor of the academy for all officers and visitors to view. If you would like to donate a photo please send it to PO Mike Kane. EMT Jane Sheehan is requesting newspaper clippings, reports, or photos of Boston Police officers who have provided medical assistance to any citizen. These can be sent to Jane at the academy.

PO Mike Kane

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 what sort of unfathomable hate led you to do what you are guilty and admit you are guilty of doing? And, I have an answer for you. It may not satisfy you, but as I search this entire record, it comes as close to understanding as I know.

It seems to me you hate the one thing that to us is most precious. You hate our freedom. Our individual freedom. Our individual freedom to live as we choose, to come and go as we choose, to believe or not believe as we individually choose. Here, in this society, the very wind carries freedom.

It carries it everywhere from sea to shining sea. It is because we prize individual freedom so much that you are here in this beautiful courtroom.

So that everyone can see, truly see, that justice is administered fairly, individually, and discretely. It is for freedom’s sake that your lawyers are striving so vigorously on your behalf, have filed appeals, will go on in their representation of you before other judges.

We Americans are all about freedom. Because we all know that the way we treat you, Mr. Reid, is the measure of our own liberties. Make no mistake though. It is yet true that we will bare any burden; pay any price, to preserve our freedoms. Look around this courtroom. Mark it well.

The world is not going to long remem-

ber what you or I say here. The day after tomorrow, it will be forgotten, but this, however, will long endure.

Here in this courtroom and courtrooms all across America, the American people will gather to see that justice, individual justice, justice, not war, individual justice is in fact being done.

The very President of the United States through his officers will have to come into courtrooms and lay out evidence on which specific matters can be judged and juries of citizens will gather to sit and judge that evidence democratically, to mold and shape and refine our sense of justice.

See that flag, Mr. Reid? That’s the flag of the United States of America.

That flag will fly there long after this is all forgotten. That flag stands for freedom. And it always will.

Mr. Custody Officer. Stand him down.

So, how much of this Judge’s comments did we hear on our TV sets? We need more judges like Judge Young, but that’s another subject. Pass this around. Everyone should and needs to hear what this fine judge had to say.

Powerful words that strike home. God bless America Please forward this so that every American has a chance to read it.

Compliments of a Friend Lawrence Ruben

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association

With our compliments and deep appreciation

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

Tufts-New England Medical Center and the Floating Hospital for Children proudly support the Boston Municipal Police Patrolmen’s Association

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

Election of the elite

Liberal Lexicon II

By Patrick Carnell, Canisius College, Buffalo NY, class of 2008 Did you know that America had considering the designated Demoan election earlier this month? It’s true! cratic “hopefuls” (including such brilAnd what an election it was! Partisan liant and beloved statesmen like Al cat-fights, baseless accusations of Gore, Barak Obama, and Hillary fraud, the change of not one, but both Clinton) that he/she would up houses of congress to the more ap- against. The Democrats are no longer peasement-prone of our political powerless; they now have to come up parties…what more can a frustrated, with concrete ideas and solutions, and pessimistic American population ask for? sufficiently define what they are for, It’s a tired cliché, but people really instead of complaining about what do deserve the government we vote they are against and making vague for. And damn, do we ever deserve a promises that things will be different governor like Deval Patrick. En- with them. They made superior use chanted by Patrick’s implied cam- of the media in manipulating the news paign promises of higher crime, to turn opinion against Republican higher taxes, and tuition breaks for il- incompetence, but what the Demolegal immigrants, Massachusetts vot- crats failed to do was to use the meers surely won’t come to regret their dia to gain support for themselves. A choice on November 7, 2006. And I’m USA-Today poll found that, in spite sure the American people as a whole of also being exhausted by Republiwon’t see their “mandate” to the can stubbornness and abject failure in Democrats come back to bite us in the planning for the Iraq aftermath, more proverbial arse when the world begins than 60% of Americans also felt that to spiral into global war (in spite of the the Democrats had no damn clue Dems’ attempt to push back the tide about what they would do about it. with the never-before-tried policies of Ineffectiveness and the status quo will Caving In and Pleading Ignorance). be the death knell for any Democratic What can we, the voters who presidential wannabe. Just like we brought them to power, expect from found out too late in Iraq, the Demothe Democrats in the next two years? crats will piss and moan and curse the Well, for starters, it wasn’t long after heavens over their lack of foresight their big win that the subpoenas and and planning as they eagerly charge whisperings of impeachment began to from their perceived glory and victory fly around, just in case you were into far less forgiving reality. fooled by the Democrats’ mediaThe Republicans, beyond a doubt, friendly promise to engage in biparti- deserved to lose the election…but that san cooperation. Higher taxes are a doesn’t mean the Democrats deserved given, as is the inevitable discussion to win (as I swallow my pride and use of socialized healthcare (because it’s another cliché). I mean, why isn’t anyjust worked out so well in Canada and one besides me disturbed by our enthe UK, with patients dying from eas- emies’ (literally) exploding with glee ily-treatable maladies after waiting for over the Democrats’ taking of Contreatment for six months). We can also gress? The endorsement of sand-lice eagerly look forward to more re- from Hamas, Hezbollah, and various straints placed on law enforcement terror cells in Iraq wouldn’t be a and the military, decreased defense source of pride to me, were I a Demospending, and, of course, plans for a crat (which, Allah-willing, I am not).

Vietnam-style retreat from Iraq. If Nor, while I’m at it, would the conwe’re really lucky, we’ll also get to see vergence between the talking points the end of our aid to Israel, and re- of the left with those of radical Islam’s, strictions on our freedom of speech, in particular with al-Qaeda No.2 with some Democrat lawmakers con- Ayman al-Zawahiri (you know which sidering adding religious criticism ones, “killing terrorists creates more (and specifically, one very special reli- terrorists, we can never beat them,” gion) under hate crime laws. So if a “this war was for oil,” “Bush lied, Muslim on the street happens to take people died,” ad nauseum). To me, offense at your assertion that Islam this would be cause for shame and might not be a ‘religion of peace,’ don’t embarrassment, something to conbe taken aback at being charged over demn and distance myself from right it; it is you who are looking to oppress away. But has any major Democrat— our peaceful Muslim friend. Con- who are we kidding,- has ANY Demogratulations on your choices, crat spoken out about this? Don’t even America! try to answer that. We cast our vote, Yes, a sallow-eyed, emotionless and got what we wanted, and if it demon-clown as Speaker of the House doesn’t turn out the way we want it we may have now, but there are, in to, well, get over it. You made this situfact, silver linings in all this sorrow. ation for yourselves, you deal with the The Democrats coming to power consequences America. You don’t like bodes well for any Republican candi- it, you can go to your room. date for president in 2008, especially

By Patrick Carnell, Canisius College, Buffalo, NY, class of 2008 Agenda: Typically a set of ideas or would have you think is run by ratiobeliefs that needs to be “taken for- nal, honest people committed to ward” (see previous Liberal Lexicon), world peace, unfairly targeted by the regardless of what voters or constitu- West, who would never use a nuclear weapon for aggressive purposes. ents think Kids: American soldiers. Wee chilBohemian: A lifestyle that is considered “artistic” or unconventional, dren who can’t possibly know any commonly claimed by art school stu- better, who are also Nazis and babydents and rich yuppies on Newbury killers.

Muslim Street: A significant deStreet. See ‘RENT (the musical)’.

Constitution: A document with a mographic in the world that we are bill of rights that is considered un- obligated to submit to on all matters, changeable and infallible (except for and to respect their desires and behavthe 2nd Amendment), despite provi- iors regardless of how intolerant, viosions made in the same and future lent, misogynistic, anti-Semitic, and documents. Somehow applies to for- totalitarian they may be.

North Korea: Another innocent, eign combatants, and apparently is being “crushed” by the government, harmless state run by rational people although any evidence of this has yet who pose no threat to their neighbors or the world. Only developed the to arise.

Cuba: A paradise in the Caribbean bomb in response to savage American which boasts superior health care (for war-mongering, nothing more.

Peaceful Protest: A protest or rally tourists and government officials), absolute equality (of misery), and marred by violence, rioting, and 100% literacy (without the freedom to threats. Smash the state….one window at a time. read or write whatever one wants).

Police Brutality: Usually any meaDisenfranchised: Any group of people considered “oppressed” by sure taken by police to defend themleftists, whether or not they are actu- selves or innocent by-standers, who ally oppressed, and regardless of the themselves will accuse police of excespossibility that their oppression might sive force. Some may deliberately attack or provoke police in order to be their own fault.

Dissent: Any constitutionally-pro- claim this moral outrage. See ‘Peacetected criticism of a disliked demo- ful Protest.’

Post-modern: Euphemism for cratically-elected official, bound by rule of law, in a free, democratic state. “I’m saying/doing outrageous things Guantánamo Bay: Undeniably on purpose to make you mad.” See the most horrible place on earth. ‘Bohemian.’

Recruiting: Practiced by the mili“Concentration camp” for completely innocent Muslim males, who are ex- tary, is an intolerable, shameful atposed to horrible conditions such as tempt to deceive a person into joingaining an average of 13 lbs. over their ing America’s imperialist adventures internment and being taken on scuba- through pure lies and manipulation. diving trips as a reward for provid- Practiced by the Peace Corps, Greenpeace, or the International Soliing information to interrogators.

Global Warming: Something that darity Movement, is a noble endeavor will kill us all and destroy the entire to gently inform others of their nonworld in anywhere from five to two- partisan purpose through absolute honesty and idealism. hundred years.

Re-deployment: “Run away! Run Hamas: A terrorist organization that we’re somehow obligated to ne- away!”

RENT (the musical): Musical play gotiate with because a broken population prone to war and mindless, about a group of 20-something “artcounter-productive acts of violence ists”/slackers living unconventional lifestyles, who stop paying rent in voted for them.

Human Right Abuses: Can only their belief that society “owes” them be committed by American, Israeli, for their “contributions” to culture.

Torture: Stripping prisoners, emBritish, or otherwise civilized soldiers.

Any actual human rights abuses com- ploying sexual temptation, sleep-depmitted by despotic governments are rivation, use of cultural taboos, exposignored or excused, to prevent them ing inmates to bright lights and loud, from being used to foster pro-Ameri- annoying music, and aggressively interrogating a prisoner fall under this can/anti-totalitarian sentiment.

Incentives: See previous LL for category. Actual torture? Eh… Workers: Group of people claimed ‘Appeasement.’ If we offer them money, deals, and nuclear reactors, by the left, despite denigrating them maybe they won’t use them to make as inbred yokels, inherent racists, and idiots when they vote in a fashion that nuclear bombs. See ‘Iran’.

Iran: A nation that certain people displeases leftists.

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WE ARE PROUD TO SUPPORT Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association

State Street Global Advisors has a long tradition of supporting worthy causes and is proud to demonstrate our commitment to the communities in which we live and do business.

For more information, please visit our website at www.ssga.com.

© 2005 State Street Corporation. 05-076SGA0305

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

They Served With Dignity and Honor We Shall Not Forget Them

Det. Paul Cahill 10/4/06

Det. Salvatore Deluca 10/5/06

Robert Rice 10/20/06

William M. Palumbo 10/28/06

Sgt. Det. James N. Bradbury, Jr. 10/30/06

Sgt. Thomas Burke 11/9/06

Robert Johns 11/12/06

Vincent O’Neil 11/15/06

We apologize for any errors or omissions

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

Talbots Charitable Foundation is proud to support the Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association.

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The Naughty List

By Mark A. Bruno Here we are one year later again without a contract. This is no surprise at all to members of the BPPA who have become accustomed to oneway conversations at the bargaining table. With members of the City’s negotiating team crying poor mouth and asking for give-backs on medical and other issues, it is no wonder we find our members considering picketing the ball.

Shame on the Mayor who refuses to just once negotiate a contract in good faith. With this possibly being his last term you would think he would want to address these issues early and get them out of the way. Lisa Signori is another one who refuses to bargain in good faith by hiding the City’s assets. A blind person can see that the City of Boston is financially sound and can afford to give its

Sports Trivia

By Bill Carroll 1.What Major League hitter led the decade of the 1980s in homeruns?

2. What team holds the Major League record for the most homeruns hit in one game?

3. Who is the only Major League pitcher to win the Cy Young Award unanimously three times?

workers a decent wage increase. I think Lisa is looking on to greener pastures and is only using the City as a stepping stone. These two are definitely at the top of the naughty list and will receive a lump of coal each.

The next recipient for a lump a coal is City Councilor Maureen Feeney. Not only did she lie to the BPPA about being duped into making Municipal Police officers permanent civil servants, she has also been the driving force behind the move to expedite the merger. The City had the unmitigated gall to ask the BPPA if we could give these “civil servants” who were waved over with a magic wand a 90-day waiver to move into the city. The BPPA asked for a definitive residency plan as a concession for this waiver and was promptly turned down. Councilor Feeney also showed her disdain for City Councilor John Tobin’s proposal, which would allow residency relief for those workers who would like to live outside of the city.

Feeney’s comments were that this issue was already visited and basically does not deserve a second look. She commented on how vehicles from the South Shore drive in and out of Boston everyday; the

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 point being that among these South Shore commuters are city employees who should be living and spending their money in the city, not taking it out. Then why does Councilor Feeney get her gas and food over in Quincy when she has two Stop & Shop stores along with numerous gas stations in her own backyard? I guess she is just another commuter heading down to the South Shore to spend her hard earned city dollars. Thank you also Councilor Feeney for calling the Save Our City group who promptly barraged Councilor Tobin’s office with “hate your idea calls”. A liar and a snitch, I think that deserves two lumps of coal.

The next ones on our naughty list are Governor Mitt (don’t touch my hair) Romney, and the entire Civil Service Commission. Together they managed to change the rules of engagement to fit whatever the landscape of the day might be.

Forcing us into expedited binding arbitration during the DNC, and ruling against the BPPA in regards to making civil servants of 23 Municipal Police officers who came on after the fact. Most of the appointees sitting on the Civil Service Board were hired by Governor Romney. Most of

Firefighters ordered to wear boxer shorts From Reuters, October 24 VANCOUVER, BC – A Canadian city under pressure for alleged sexual harassment

within its fire department has ordered firefighters to wear only boxer-style underwear.

Richmond, British Columbia

Civil War Answers

4. What former Boston Bruins head coach was the youngest player in the history of the National Hockey League?

1. The largest Confederate Prison Camp during the Civil War was located in Andersonville Georgia.

5. What NHL player holds the league record for the most games played with the same team?

2. In 1899 the state of New Jersey was the first state to erect a monument in memory of her soldiers who were held captive during the Civil War at Andersonville.

6. Who was the first Major Leaguer to earn a salary of one million dollars a year?

7. What NHL Hall of Famer won the Ross Trophy(Scoring), Hart Trophy(MVP), and the Lady Byng Trophy(Sportsmanship) two years in a row, 1967 & 1968?

8. Who was the first Major League catcher to wear a protective helmet while behind the plate?

9. Who was the first Wild Card team to win the Super Bowl?

10. When was the first time the Super Bowl was played indoors? answers on page B25

them will tell you that their soul purpose is to blow up Civil Service. It is ironic that the Mayor recently gave the Governor a tongue-lashing in the paper for cutting back funds on local programs. It was the Governor who at the Mayor’s request stepped in and forced the members of the BPPA into court where a Romney-appointed judge came down with a six-page ruling against the BPPA and forever changed the way the game is played. Romney was trying to catapult himself much like Calvin Coolidge did during the Strike of 1919.

Calvin Coolidge you are not.

Calvin Klein maybe? What you need to do Governor on the way out the door is take those hush-puppy-shoewearing fools that call themselves the Civil Service Commission with you.

Finally I ask that all you residency members give Mayor Menino and Councilor Feeney a call and let them know you are displeased with the recent increased property tax bills that have just come out. I wonder if properties owned by our city leaders are taxed accordingly, or do they get the Diane Wilkerson shake? If you ask them this question I’m sure they’ll say it is all bah-humbug.

3. The largest Union prison camp during the Civil War was located at Fort McHenry in Baltimore Maryland.

4. The first American to be elevated to the rank of “full” Admiral was Tennessee native David Farragut who served in the Union Navy during the Civil War. 5. On July 4, 1863 the city of Vicksburg Mississippi fell into Union hands under the command of General Ulysses S. Grant during the Civil War and as a result the citizens of Vicksburg did not celebrate the 4th of July again until 1944.

will spend C$16,000 (7,600 pounds) to buy six pairs of underwear for each firefighter in a bid to make firehalls in the suburb of Vancouver more gender neutral, a newspaper reported on Tuesday.

“We supply firefighters with various pieces of gear such as gloves, now it’s underwear,” city official Ted Townsend told the Vancouver Sun, saying it was part of the “integration of the sexes in the workplace.” A recent investigation of the department described its workplace culture as “characterized by juvenile and hostile behaviour” towards female firefighters by their male colleagues.

Firefighters strip off most of their clothes in order to don protective gear when responding to fire alarms, although Townsend said the city is considering buying gear that can be put on over regular uniforms.

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is happy to salute the

BOSTON POLICE PATROLMEN’S ASSOCIATION FAMILIES SCHOLARSHIP FUND.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

Roses are red Violets are blue.

We are here for you; we dress in blue too.

We are your peer counseling team We are always here, for you who dress in blue.

Boston Police Peer Support Unit (Stress Unit) 251 River Street, Mattapan 617-698-7888 Peer Counseling for all officers & their families.

Group & individual meetings, specialist referrals.

“Sometimes even we need a little help from our friends”

Children are the foundation of the future

Trammel Crow Company Supports the Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association Scholarship Fund and Its Commitment to the Future of Young People.

Commercial Real Estate 125 High Street Boston, Massachusetts 02110 (617) 757-2500

Trammell Crow Company

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(Anti)American Media

By Patrick Carnell, Canisius College, Buffalo, NY, class of 2008

“I’m glad Reagan isn’t alive to see this. No, wait, I’m just glad he’s dead.” Now, how do you really feel about Ronald Reagan, The Onion? If this edition of American Voices about Noriega returning to power is any indication, I’d say you don’t really like him.

Of course, The Onion can’t be singled out for its consistent anti-Reagan, anti-war, antimilitary, soldiers-are-dumb, pro-leftist stances. That’d be unfair to the hundreds of other publications that espouse the exact same views and pass them along as “facts.”

Anti-American and antiIsraeli media bias has been obvious since some time after 9/11, from Dan Rather ’s forged memo to doctored and staged photos taken of the Israel-Hezbollah conflict (which was the inspiration for a recent episode of CSI, in

which a photographer/murder suspect doctored photos of Iraq to make it appear American soldiers were wantonly murdering Iraqis. His excuse? “I made a lie to tell the truth.”). It goes without saying that many news broadcasts and agencies twist words and stories to depict a situation or person in the worst possible light, should it be convenient to their subtle ideals. Hollywood and the entertainment industry are also on board this bandwagon (surprised?). A fairly good proportion of our celebrities and personalities routinely decry the ignorance of their fellow Americans and pride themselves on their “progressiveness,” and express shame in American history, American people, and in being American. Shows like Family Guy and The Simpsons have taken decisively anti-military

SPORTS TRIVIA ANSWERS 1. Mike Schmidt of the Phillies led the decade of the 1980’s with 313 homeruns.

2. On September 14, 1987 the Toronto Blue Jays hit 10 homeruns against the Baltimore Orioles in an 18-3 win to set a Major League record.

3. Sandy Koufax who won the Cy Young Award four times won three of them unanimously.

4. Bep Guidolin who coached the Bruins from 1972 to 1974 was the youngest player in NHL history when he played for the Bruins in 1942 at age 16 years and 10 months.

5. The NHL record for the most games played for the same team is held by Alex Delvecchio who appeared in 1549 games for the Detroit Red Wings.

6. The first Major League player to earn a salary of one million dollars a season was Nolan Ryan who on November 19, 1979 signed a four year 4.5 million dollar contract with the Houston Astros.

7. Chicago Blackhawks Hall of Famer Stan Mikita won the Hart, Ross, and Lady Byng Trophies two years in a row, 1967 & 1968.

8. The first Major League catcher to wear a protective helmet while behind the plate was the Cincinnati Reds Johnny Bench.

9. The first Wild Card team to win the Super Bowl were the Oakland Raiders who defeated the Philadelphia Eagles 27-10 in Super Bowl XV in 1981.

10. The first Super Bowl to be played indoors was Super Bowl XIII at the Superdome in New Orleans in 1978 when the Dallas Cowboys defeated the Denver Broncos 27-10.

stances in their runs, up to and including recent episodes deriding (and blatantly lying about and misrepresenting) military recruiting and condemning military service as a savage “last resort” for the poor and uneducated. But don’t you question their patriotism!

Lies, distortions, spin, doctoring, bias. Shame, disgust, hyperbole, elitism, condescension. Certainly does sound like our modern media. Little wonder we’re so frustrated in Iraq right now.

During an Iraq War Forum held on my campus recently, featuring alumni who have served in Iraq, each of the soldiers and the colonel present mentioned that soldiers who have served in the war have come back confused and shocked at seeing the conflict portrayed in the media. “We can’t figure out why it’s so negative. It’s not even close to what we’ve seen over there,” according to Staff Sergeant Nick DeSannis (’05). “Why are they showing it like that?

They’re showing none, absolutely none, of the good we’ve done.” “The media is fostering the sentiment that any difficulty is too much. No one said this was going to be quick and easy, quite the opposite, we expected,” added Canisius’ ROTC instructor, who had trained Iraqi troops.

Just imagine what World War II headlines would have been like if today’s media had been covering it: “British, French refusal to negotiate following German war of defense against Poland forces reluctant Hitler to aggressively set up defenses in Norway, Denmark, Belgium, Holland, Luxembourg.”

“Benevolent Axis victors preserve French autonomy, centered in Vichy.”

“Japanese launch tactical strike on Pearl Harbor in response to American oil embargo.”

“Japanese liberate colonial possession of the Philippines; American combatants, Filipino proxies continue insurgency in Bataan.”

“Germans establish temporary internment camps for potential Allied sympathizers, other troublesome groups.”

“Anglo-American invaders attack North African

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 beachheads, vow to destroy German forces stationed at invitation of French government at Vichy.”

“U.S. arming nationalist Chinese government known for human rights abuses for insurgency against Japanese.”

“Jewish Allied sympathizers make claims of “mistreatment,” “forced relocation,” and “genocide”; German government decries rumors as baseless lies.”

“Classified documents indicate Allies may be planning France invasion in Normandy, not Calais.”

“U.S., British, Canadian forces invade sovereign France in attack aimed at Germany; defenders inflicting heavy casualties at Omaha and Juno beaches.”

“Grim milestone: U.S. dead reaches 150,000.”

“Herr Goebbels: Attacks on Germany will only create more Nazis.”

“Quagmire: U.S. bogged down in Ardennes, Bastogne, Canadians in the Scheldt; some suggest immediate withdrawal, redeployment to other areas of war.”

“War in Europe ends, German leader, Herr Hitler, dead; opinion: Was the war worth it?”

“Japan insists Allied POWs are receiving excellent treatment.”

“Quagmire: First Iwo Jima, now Okinawa; can the Japanese fighting spirit be

defeated?”

“U.S. drops atomic bombs, killing thousands of civilians in deliberate targeting of city; world shocked.”

I can hear fine!

Old friends

Three retirees, each with a hearing loss, were playing golf one fine March day. One remarked to the other, “Windy, isn’t it?”

“No,” the second man replied, “it’s Thursday.”

And the third man chimed in, so am I. let’s have a beer.”

What a choice A little old lady was running up and down the halls in a nursing home. As she walked, she would flip up the hem of her nightgown and say, “Supersex.” She walked up to an elderly man in a wheelchair. Flipping her gown at him, she said, “Supersex.”

He sat silently for a moment or two and finally answered, “I’ll take the soup.”

Wow, kind of got carried away there. And that barely peels off the top layer of what the whole of the war could elicit from our media. Luckily for us and all of humanity, the era of “speaking truth to power” only replaced the era of providing impartial information to the public in the 70’s. Better that we be made to suffer through “news and entertainment” that wants us to be ashamed of who we are, sees no reason why they shouldn’t be able to publish classified information pertaining to defense and public safety, and gives the benefit of the doubt to the enemy while always assuming the worst of ourselves, rather than the generations of World War II. Reporters and celebrities would have us all subscribe to the same views they hold by skewing and hiding the truth, rather than providing us with pure, unbiased information to allow us to form our own opinions or just shutting the hell up about politics and entertaining us. Of course, if you expect us to revert to an efficient, purpose-driven media as we once had anytime soon, maybe this sort of media is actually perfect for you.

Two elderly ladies had been friends for many decades. Over the years,they had shared all kinds of activities and adventures. Lately, their activities had been limited to meeting a few times a week to play cards.

One day, they were playing cards when one looked at the other and said, “Now don’t get mad at me I know we’ve been friends for a long time, but I just can’t think of your name!

I’ve thought and thought, but I can’t remember it. Please tell me what your name is.”

Her friend glared at her.

For at least three minutes she just stared and glared at her.

Finally she said, “How soon do you need to know?”

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

Houghton Mifflin salutes the Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association for its long-standing dedication and service to our community.

For more than 170 years, Boston-based Houghton Mifflin Company has been a trusted partner in lifelong learning, providing textbooks, educational resources, assessments, award-winning fiction and nonfiction, and reference materials to readers of all ages.We proudly sponsor the BPPA Scholarship Fund, and congratulate the association on its many successful programs.

www.hmco.com

Š Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.

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2006 Scholarship winners

Thank You! The BPPA is grateful to our advertisers, whose generosity makes these scholarships possible.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

Winner

Member Parent

Ryan Foster

James Foster

Sarah Drew

Dan Drew

John T. Loan

John F. Loan

Matthew Turner

Ken Turner

Hannah McMahon

Ed. F. McMahon, Jr.

Brittany Ortiz

Anthony Ortiz

Michaela Orsino

Jamie Orsino

Malik Reid

Ken Reid

Ashley Nicole Berrio

Richard Berrio

Meaghan McDonough

Tom McDonough

Christina Estrella

Rich Estrella

Stephany Leeman

Joe Leeman

Devin Kelley

Charles Kelley

Shane G. Kelley

Thomas Kelley

Gina Domenico

Tom Domenico

Gregory T. DeYoung

William DeYoung

Sydney T. Morgan

Sheldon Morgan

Thomas John Kelley

William Kelley

Catherine Giunta

Mike Giunta

Patrick O’Brien

Paul O’Brien

Chevelis Guante

Melvin Guante-Joseph

Katherine Nolan

Ed J. Nolan, III

Mark Hennessy

Mark Hennessy

Emerson Teehan

Leanne Hurley

Rachel Calderone

Larry Calderone

Mark T. Bilotis

John Bilotis

Tyler Pugsley

John Pugsley

Justin E. Cruz

Elias Cruz

Courtney L. Bulger

William M. Bulger

Alternatives

Member Parent

Sean L. Berquist

John Berquist

Claire Nee

Tom Nee

Joseph Greco

Joseph Greco

Michael Ahern

John Ahern

Stephen Fabiano

Stephen Fabiano

John Twombly

Patricia McGoldrick

Haley Farrell

John Farrell

Ava Ahearn

John Ahern

Patrick McDonough

Al McDonough

Robert Lucas

Robert T. Lucas

Margaret Lydon

Brian Lydon

William T. Salmon

Tom Salmon

Jon Acosta

José Acosta

Rachel Williams

Graham Williams

Christine McCarthy

Sean McCarthy

Sean Ross

Mike Ross

Patrick Nee

Mike Nee

Richard D. Stanton

Richard Stanton

Jillian Doherty

Brian Doherty

Brian Ridlon

John Ridlon

Jeana Fawkes

Joe Fawkes

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Racial profiling insanity: Is clairvoyancy now required?…..

By Jim Carnell, Pax Editor

A RECENT BPD E-MAIL was received here at the busy Pax Centurion staff office concerning racial profiling forms, specifically regarding whether a profiling form should be completed in cases where the officer does not or cannot physically stop the operator of a motor vehicle to whom a citation is mailed.

Deleting the names (which are irrelevant for the purposes of this missive), the e-mail is basically an inquiry made of Supt. Dunford as to whether such forms must be completed. The following is the reply received: “I met with Superintendent Dunford today in regards to mailed citations whether a racial profiling form should be made. It is his ascertion (sic) that if the officer seen (sic) enough to get the license plate number and see (sic) the violation he can see if the driver was a male or female

and a best guess on the race, thus a profiling form should be made out.”

This, apparently, represents the level of utter insanity to which this department has stooped in order to please those who believe that police officers actually practice racial profiling. We are now expected to be able to tell, from a fleeting observation at best (and often at night or under less than optimum conditions) the race of the driver of a motor vehicle, without even having stopped the individual behind the wheel. According to Supt. Dunford, “if we’ve seen enough to get the license plate number…” we should be able to make a guess as to the race…”

Now, personally, I am loathe to make a “guess” about a person’s race or ethnicity even after I’ve encountered them one-on-one, race being such a sensitive

subject in today’s multicultural/multiethnic society. But obviously according to the above missive, the BPD now expects us to make a “guess” as to somebody’s race from a momentary glance at a passing motor vehicle. I can only imagine the line of questioning which would ensue if the matter ever went to court: Attorney: “Officer, you marked here on the citation that my client was Middle Eastern.

My client is, in fact, of Italian heritage. How did you arrive at that conclusion? What observations did you make that made you denote “Middle eastern” on the profiling form? What physical attributes does a “Middle eastern” person have that made you arrive at that conclusion?”

Officer: Umm, umm, umm…….

Yes, that’s correct- it’s exactly as I said many years ago when this insanity started.

The people behind this whole

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 farce known as racial profiling are the true racists. They want us to make to make a racist choice as to a person’s identity, and then justify the unjustifiable- to in effect make us racists by forcing us to make specious guesses on a legal form. Fellow officers, I

don’t know what you’ll do in regards to this latest missive from on high, but I know what I’ll be doing as far as being forced to make such blatantly racist choices….

Have a nice day, Mr. Motorist…

From the Archives…

Ted Williams poses for a publicity photo circa 1940.

Compliments of a Friend

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Off the Top of my Head

By Kevin Doogan So here we are at Veterans event had the makings of a Stadium in Lawrence Massa- Norman Rockwell type expechusetts to watch several Pop rience. The announcer fired Warner Football playoff up the microphone and read games. The children playing off a prepared statement football and their accompany- warning that the following ing cheerleading squads conduct would not be tolerranged in age from 10 to 14 ated. He announced that years old. I sat in the grand- sexual harassment; lewd comstands with the younger sib- ments and profanity were lings, family and friends of grounds for expulsion. He these players. There were announced that harsh critigrandparents, aunts, uncles cism and threatening comand children of all ages there ments from either the stands to root on their team. The or the coaching staffs towards

the referees would also be grounds for penalties against a team and expulsion from the stadium. There was a long laundry list of warnings against certain conduct. I found it odd he was so thorough in delivery seemingly covering every possible scenario that could upset or ruin this All American experience.

Finally, after what felt like five minutes of laying down the law, we were asked to stand for the playing of our National Anthem. Proudly we stood there as Old Glory flew majestically in the autumn

The Boston Police Gaelic Column marches in PO Wayne Anderson’s funeral procession, February, 1994.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 breeze. When the cheering subsided we all took our seats, for what I thought was going to be my own little slice of Americana. From the state -of-the-art sound system, cranked up for effect I sat there waiting for some typical heart pounding, pulse raising, inspirational music to sound. The loud booming bass of an instrumental rhythm started thumping.

The crowd was rising back to their feet in response to cheer their young sports stars charging onto the field. And like fingernails running down a blackboard the lyrics to the song began. Almost every adult I could see spun on their heels and with a look of shock on their faces and looked towards the press box. The singer rapped on about his bitches and his ho’s, and spankin’ that phat ass, about their jammies and nines and beating people down. With almost every fifth word of the song being the N-word I, and several others started expressing our disgust. The song, finally ended but the chants towards the press box continued through out until eventu-

Compliments of a Friend

ally someone with half a brain removed our disk jockey/announcer. It’s too bad the powers to be didn’t abide by their own rules. It was embarrassing, unnerving and upsetting, as a parent you try to protect your children and allow them to be children. As a husband, father and son, and I’m sure like most men, I wouldn’t tolerate some stranger talking like that anywhere near my mother, wife or children. As a young man, conduct like what I heard coming from that PA system would have resulted with bruising and contusions. Yet the entire stadium was subjected to this garbage without so much as an apology. I’m not a prude, and people surely can choose their own type of entertainment but offensive, profane, racist, sexist lyrics aren’t appropriate for a children’s event. So if you find yourself in Lawrence, at a sporting event and the announcer takes ten minutes to warn you about “inappropriate conduct”, buckle up and grab the kids, you’re going for a ride.

Pop Warner would be rolling in his grave.

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Names taken off Police Memorial Wall

By PO Michael Kane, Academy

On a recent trip to Washington D. C. I stopped at the National Law Enforcement Officer ’s Memorial and looked up the names of Boston Police Officers and two Boston Watch Officers killed in the line of duty. I decided to make etchings of randomly selected Boston Police officers so that our academy can display them in a proper place. My youngest daughter Olivia, (7 years old) eagerly assisted me not fully understanding the overwhelming sorrow that these walls represent.

Twenty-eight names were taken from the wall. Each one with a story of a life suddenly and tragically ended but more importantly of a life dedicated to public service. Some names are rarely looked at and memories recalled as their families and friends have long since passed away themselves. I realized quickly that all Boston Police Officers and myself repre-

sent their family now. It is our duty to remember their sacrifice and commitment for the citizens of Boston. If you happen to travel to Washington D.C. please visit the memorial and take a few etchings of names of our fellow officers. Mail them or drop them off at the academy and I will see to it that they are placed on display. You can also visit the Visitors center at 605 E Street, NW. This center displays photos, personal mementos, notes, messages, and poems about the fallen officers. The following are the names of the officers that have already been etched: Colson, Hurley, Hodson, Anderson, Estes, Houghton, Crowley, Griffiths, Carr, Brickley, Creamer, Rose, Schroeder, J., Mulligan, Cavagnaro, Norton, Halloran, Healy, Holmes, Wolfe, Gill, Alexander, Butters, Schlehuber, Abbot, O’Leary, Bartlett, Earle, Wilson.

As Always, Stay safe.

NYC will stop some deductions from reservists’ pay From The New York Times, November 10, NEW YORK, NY More than 1,400 city employees called up for military service after 9/11 will no longer have to repay the city a portion of their military pay, Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg announced today. Mr. Bloomberg said the city would stop counting food and housing allowances as military income under an adjustment to New York City’s five-year-old program requiring city employees to return the lesser of their military or city pay.

“Living in a tent and eating K rations in the desert while you’re worried about somebody coming along and killing you isn’t exactly income,” the mayor said in his weekly radio address. “I don’t think anyone really thought it through.”

Plans for readjusting the requirement have been in the works since September, after veterans and Councilman Michael E. McMahon of Staten Island complained that city agencies were demanding more than their fair share from men and women who risked their lives to serve in Iraq and elsewhere.

Mr. Bloomberg said the change would cost the city $24 million and apply retroactively so that city employees who had already paid, based on the old formula, can be reimbursed. For the 1,466 reservists who stand to benefit, the new benefits

policy will mean holding onto thousands of dollars that would have otherwise been returned to the city’s coffers. Michael Kelly, a recently retired police officer who was called up by the Navy reserve for part of 2001 and 2002, said he would get to keep at least $10,000.

Michael Zak, 35, a police officer and father of one whose Marine Corps reserve unit was activated in 2001, said his family would hold onto about $15,000 of the roughly $35,000 he had been asked to pay the city. He called the city’s modification “a Veteran’s Day gift.

“I think the city stepped up and did the right thing,” he said. “Most veterans in my position would be very grateful.”

He and other veterans, 85 percent of whom work for the Police, Fire, Correction or Sanitation Departments, thanked Councilman McMahon for lobbying the mayor on the issue. But they said that at least one other problem still needed to be resolved. The city is still demanding that veterans repay their gross salaries rather than the smaller amount they take home after taxes. Mr. Bloomberg said that two tax preparation firms, H&R Block and Jackson Hewitt, have agreed to provide free tax advice to ensure that reservists maximize their benefits. Mr. Zak said it would be simpler if city employees only paid back what they actually earned.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

Why is it?

By PO Mike Kane, Academy

The Boston School police officers are so ill equipped? They don’t carry OC spray in order to defend themselves or others? That’s crazy and dangerous! What’s it going to take, one of the school cops dying before they are given the proper tools?

Cops on the street are still driving around in cruisers that are pieces of junk while new cars are given to civilians who use them to show off to their neighbors? (“Look at my blue lights, Fred!) Is this ever going to end?

Diane Wilkerson has anyone’s support? What a fraud! Now she’s in trouble again!!

This department allows a small problem (we’ve all seen them) to go unchecked for years until it becomes a huge issue and then everyone starts pointing fingers at everyone else?

No one has challenged Gov. elect Patrick’s promise to put one thousand more police officers on the street to combat crime? Hey Deval these new cops are going to have to fight all the illegal aliens that you and your foolish policies will attract to this state!

Thanks a lot!

Sen. John Kerry thinks it’s comical to make jokes about our troops?

What a leader!

This department has no protocol established for wearing mourning bands after a police officer has been killed in the line of duty? Even on our own department! Thirty days? Three days? Can this department come up with some sort of a respectful policy or simply follow the guidelines that are on the ODMP (Officer Down Memorial Page) website? Half of the Boston Police Officer were wearing them

for Manchester, NH Officer Briggs at the IACP and half were TOLD to take them off by a supervisor!!

The department thinks it’s a good idea to legitimize gangs by holding “secret summits” with them so that they don’t shoot at each other? Next thing you know these criminals will be demanding concessions from the city. And if they don’t get them they will cause all kinds of problems in the neighborhoods. Sounds just like North Korea doesn’t it? (We have a nuke and want trillions of dollars in aid NOT to use it). Instead of offering these private luxury box seats to the Celtics and Patriots games, (I’ve always wanted to watch a game from one of these… But I guess you have to be a criminal), how about informing them that if they keep doing what they are doing they are either going to be…..I dare say it….. arrested and sent to prison or be killed themselves.

And as for those great tickets….how about giving them to the good kids in this city? The Boston Police department is NOT the United Nations! Stop coddling these thugs or you give them more power.

Mexico’s President Vicente Fox continues to criticize the U.S. for moving forward with plans to build a border fence along the Mexican border?

(Boston Herald, 11/12/06) He’s incapable of providing jobs, housing and health care to his own people but has no problem forcing the American taxpayer to take care of these illegals.

This department continues to reinvent crime strategies? How many “operation this” and “operation that” do we need?

Stay Safe.

Officers sue Burger King over marijuana-laced burgers From The Associated Press, Nov. 8 Two police officers in New Mexico have sued Burger King Corp., claiming they were served hamburgers that had been sprinkled with marijuana.

The lawsuit says Mark Landavazo and Henry Gabaldon, officers for the Isleta Pueblo tribal police, were in uniform and riding in a marked patrol car when they bought meals at the drive-through lane Oct. 8 of a Burger King restaurant in Los Lunas, N.M. The officers ate about half of their burgers before discovering marijuana on the meat, the lawsuit said. They used a field test kit to confirm the substance was pot, then went to a hospital for medical evaluations. “It gives a whole new meaning to the word

‘Whopper,’” the officers’ attorney, Sam Bregman, said Monday. “The idea that these hoodlums would put marijuana into a hamburger and therefore attempt to impair law enforcement officers trying to do their jobs is outrageous.” Three Burger King employees were arrested and charged with possession of marijuana and aggravated battery on an officer, a felony. They later were indicted. The lawsuit, filed Friday in Bernalillo County, alleges personal injury, negligence, battery and violation of fair practices. It seeks unspecified damages along with legal costs. Officials at Miami-based Burger King declined to comment, citing a company policy against discussing pending litigation.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

Filene’s Basement is honored to support the

Boston Police Patrolmen’s Scholarship Fund

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

From the President Wrapping it up Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association, Inc. Boston Emergency Medical Technicians 9-11 Shetland Street Boston, Massachusetts 02119 Phone: 617-989-BPPA Readership 125,000

Nation’s First Police Dept.

Unity & Strength

VOLUME 36—NO.6

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

BOARD OF EDITORS Thomas J. Nee, Executive Director Ronald MacGillivray Vice President John Broderick, Jr., Secretary Daniel Fagan, Treasurer Managing Editor: James Carnell

Asst. Managing Editors: Mark Bruno, Pat Rose

EMS Officers James Orsino, President Robert Morley, Vice President Matthew Carty, Secretary Anthony O’Brien, Treasurer Len Shubitowski, Chief Steward

Bulk Mailing Postage Paid at Worcester, Mass., Permit #2226

BPPA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

AREA A

AREA B

AREA C

Brian Reaney • Tom Corbett John Bates • James Carnell Andrew West • Michael Leary Robert Anthony • Bob Luongo

John Downey • Bernie Moore Charlie Hulme • David Fitzgerald Cynthia Beckford-Brewington Richard McCormack

Timothy Golden • Stephen Roe Bill Hogan • Joe Miskel Mark Bruno • Patrick Rose

AREA D

AREA E

AREA F

Rich Moriarty • Scott Yanovitch Robert Butler • Greg Lynch Lou Maderia • Michael McManus

Michael Harrington • Paul Nee John Earley • Jean Pierre Ricard Lawrence Calderone Gerald Rautenberg • Steve Kelley Arthur McCarthy

M.O.P.

RADIO SHOP/P .D.S. John Kundy PDS—Karen VanDyke

Richie Kelley

ACADEMY/RANGE EVIDENCE MANAGEMENT Paul Downey

IDENT. UNIT —John FitzGerald DRUG UNIT—Paul Quinn YVSF—Jeff Cecil Thomas Pratt

TURRET John Conway • Dave Stewart Richard Brennan

HARBOR

E.S.U.

Bill Cullinane

Hector Cabrera • Francis Deary

HEADQUARTERS

K-9/MOUNTED

MASTER AT ARMS

Rhethia Stewart

Kevin Ford • Patrick Butler

Robert Lundbohm • Mike Murphy Timothy Stanton

BPPA COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS AWARDS: Bob Butler; J. Broderick; G. Rautenberg GRIEVANCE: Bob Butler; Jim Carnell; Brian Reaney; Mike Leary; Tom Pratt; Dave Fitzgerald BUILDING: Dan Fagan BARGAINING: Tom Nee; Ron MacGillivray; Brian Reaney; Tom Pratt; Dave Fitzgerald LEGISLATIVE: Jim Barry MASSPULL: Jim Barry PUBLIC RELATIONS: Jim Barry PAX CENTURION: Jim Carnell, Mark Bruno, Pat Rose BYLAWS: Tom Nee HEALTH/SAFETY AND LABOR MANAGEMENT: John Kundy; M. Bruno ELECTIONS: John Kundy EDUCATION: Tom Nee DETAILS/OVERTIME: Brian Reaney; Patrick Rose

TO ADVERTISE IN THE PAX CENTURION Call the Pax Centurion staff at: COMMONWEALTH PRODUCTIONS: 781-848-8224 • FAX: 781-848-8041 EDITORIAL POLICY 1. Opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association.

2. No responsibility is assumed for unsolicited material.

3. Letters or articles submitted shall be limited to 350 words and must be accompanied by writer’s name, but may be reprinted without name or address at writer’s request.

4. Freedom of expression is recognized within the bounds of good taste and the limits of available space.

5. The B.P.P.A. reserves the right to edit submission and/or include Editor’s notes to any submitted materials.

6. The deadline for printed materials for the next issue is JANUARY 15, 2007 7. Any article printed in this issue may be reprinted in future issues.

B.P.P.A. Tel. 617-989-2772 • Fax: 617-989-2779 web site: www.bppa.org Office Personnel: Annie Parolin • Annmarie Daly

As the year draws to a close and the holidays are fast upon us, it is hard to believe that this year has actually come and gone. As I take this opportunity to reflect on the events that have taken place over the course of this year, I realize that it has been a defining year both personally and professionally for all of us. We have had moments and opportunities that have defined our character, our values and our principles. The commitment to duty, honor, loyalty and selfsacrifice that distinguishes you in your profession also distinguishes you as members of the BPPA. During the past year, as I’m sure there will be in the future, we have been called upon many times to take moral and principled stands. For those efforts sometimes we received praise, other times scorn, ridicule and criticism. Sometimes difficult choices were made and lines were drawn in the sand. We stood the thin blue line together as we defined and distinguished who we are as a people and as an organization. We have grown to understand that sometimes you have to stand there and take the hits, if you believe in what you are doing. You don’t have to defend it; you just have to believe in it and sometimes just because it is the right thing to do.

Where we go depends on where we have been, where we are and how much we are willing to invest to achieve our desired goal as an organization. With the bargaining process in full swing and the threat of valuable benefits being lost, many public employee unions look to the BPPA to lead the way. It has been said many times, that great are those who can dig

down and summons something special, something different than the others, something that truly distinguishes them from the rest. That is a defining characteristic of a BPPA member. I’m so very proud to be a member of your team; there are many who wish that they were. Again, the challenging days of the past year were defining times; looking forward we have many challenges facing us in the New Year.

Working together as we have, we can defend against any threat. The great difference will be our experience and the knowledge that the only thing that we can control is the effort that we put into the things that we do. Take that away and you get what you get. We will be measured and challenged like never before, and we will be up to the challenge.

In closing, the BPPA is more than an association of people; it is a family.

Like a family, there is a special bond that binds us together. An invisible bond that is unspoken, yet forged within the spirit of shared values and sacrifices. It is seemingly stronger than any other force and it has never been more evident to me than during the past couple of weeks when we have experienced so much heartache and loss in the BPPA family. The loss of sister Denise Corbett leaves us all with a heavy hearts, as well as the thought of all our brothers and sisters who are sick and injured during the holiday period. They will remain in our thoughts and prayers. I’m honored to serve you and call you my brothers and sisters. God bless you and your families. Keep safe out there.

Fraternally, T J Nee

The BPPA and PAX Centurion staff wish you and yours a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and the Happiest of New Years!

PAX CENTURION

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

Message from the Vice President Creative Shifts Gaining Popularity This issue is not being considered by the BPPA Bargaining Committee…but makes for interesting conversation. In a recent Public Safety Labor Relation’s periodical the New York Sheriffs Department is said to have entered into an agreement requiring twelve (12) hour shifts for a one-year trial period. Other departments across the State of New York including the N.Y. State Trooper’s currently work the alternating schedule of three tours on/ four off one week and four tours on/three off the next which translates to half the year on and half the year off not including benefits. Twelve (12) hour shifts average out to a 42-hour work week with approximately 61 additional days off a year when compared with our four on two off schedule. The ratification was extremely close because like any change it affects each individual differently. A modification of this nature (12 hour shifts) for the BPD would impinge on the ability to make supplemental monies given our current schedule and would not be a good fit.

Police departments using ten (10) hour shifts are generally calculated on sixteen (16) ten-hour shifts in a twenty eight (28) day work cycle averaging out to a forty (40) hour work week. Both the (12- and 10-hour) alternative schedules work off a fixed seven (7) day work week as opposed to a six (6) day rotating cycle and average more hours worked on an annual basis than the four and two.

The ten (10) hour shift could employ variations of a four on/three off schedule to lower the annual hours worked and allow a little more flexibility for supplemental work given the casual understanding in which the 16 1/2 consecutive hour rule is currently interpreted.

To help provide for a more equitable, rotating distribution of days off and get closer with the overall number of hours worked per year in the BPD, a twenty two (22) day

cycle could provide a four on/three off, four on/three off and four on/four off sequence. There would be approximately 16.6 rotations per year totaling 1992 work hours per year…estimated to be about 50 hours more than the four and two schedule annually. The 50 hours could be an added week of vacation, could help round up other benefits or in any illustration provide buy back potential.

The assignment of shifts and manpower might look something like the chart (see below), given department concerns for overlap during crime time and detail concerns for start and stop time Most of the police contracts across the country, given the magnitude of the change, require a trial period to assess the change and revisit the issue in a year or two for compatibility. This proposal would not affect the 90hour work week but if any shift proffer were to be given serious consideration there would have to be greater flexibility given the number of hours worked in a day.

Hours of Work On 11-6-06 an amendment to Rule 102, Section 10 was issued in a Commissioner’s Special Order permitting 16.5 consecutive hours of work to be performed in any given 24-hour period. This housekeeping change was literal in nature taking into account that a day tour is 8.5 hours.

The bigger issue involves the term “consecutive” hours, where depending on an officer ’s numbers for any given day, has a varied consequence at the end of any given tour. Any break in time allows the Department to order under the pretext that the officer did not work continuously for a 16.5 hour period.

Recognizing the different circumstances, the officer that is volunteering is rarely an issue given his inclination and

Day Tour First Half Last Half

preparedness to work. On the other hand, many officers this past summer found themselves night after night being ordered for a last half after a first half in which the officer had appeared in court or performed a detail involving two to six hours of work during the day. An officer having worked 12 or 14 out of 16 hours should not be considered a viable alternative at the end of his tour for another 8 hours. But the wording is subject to interpretation and at 11:40 P.M. the Duty Supervisor after going city-wide has little choice.

The officer’s life on the job has little predictability…some issues are unavoidable but many are preventable in that when overtime is required, the Department should hire in a timely manner when existing overtime is mandatory to get to minimum manning.

Much of the predetermined overtime in question should be done in advance with the last minute needs of the Department notwithstanding.

Health Insurance A recent Herald editorial blames city employees for the rise in home assessments because greedy city unions are not willing to do their fair share in lowering healthcare costs. The City’s finger pointing strategy in the aftermath of significant property tax increases by faulting city employees and their unions is predictable but ludicrous. At the end of the day any and all proposals involve cost shifting to the employee.

The City rejects all of the key union issues as non-starters at the bargaining table but when the union rejects paying more for healthcare, we’re vilified. The Municipal Research Bureau concludes that it requires annual property taxes from five average homeowners in Boston to pay the roughly $14,000 needed to pay to cover one city workers

6:45 A.M. - 4:45 P.M. 4:00 P.M. - 2:00 A.M. 9:00 P.M. - 7:00 A.M.

33% 40% 27%

family plan. This past June the number quoted for the family plan at bargaining was $16,000, so in the past six months the average family plan has gone down $2,000 if their numbers are to be given any credibility.

Good reasons not to enter GIC (Group Insurance Commission): 1. The GIC is governed by 11 Commissioners and labor is not fairly represented.

2. Most City employees are in the HPHC HMO plan.

The only HMO plans offered by the GIC are Fallon Community Health Plan, Neighborhood Health Plan and Health New England.

3. The GIC offers multiple PPO products that include inhospital deductibles and other restrictions that do not exist in the City of Boston HMO plan.

4. The GIC controls all plan design factors . Plan design will not be part of collective bargaining once the City of Boston employees are part of the GIC. That means a la carte shopping…future deductibles and co-pays through the roof.

The editorial goes on to state, “Luckily, the best fix is also the most obvious”…city employees kicking in more for premiums. Identifying why the price of health insurance has skyrocketed over the past few years is the issue.

According to one M.D., it is because of malpractice litigation requiring more testing and treating, a greater patient demand for absolute certainty driven by new technologies and drugs and doctors and hospitals are mostly paid in a fee-for-service environment…the more they do, the more they are paid. Distinguishing where the focus of attention is needed should be of mutual concern as opposed to reallocating the cost.

Tax exempt educational institutions are gobbling up acres of taxable property and taking millions off the tax roll.

This would be a good area to start at correcting the City’s shortfall.

Wishing all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Fraternally, Ron MacGillivray

He won’t survive the New Hampshire primary!

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

Treasury Notes

By Daniel P. Fagan, BPPA Treasurer

I write this article with mixed emotions. It is my last column as the BPPA Treasurer. I have enjoyed eight years, working on your behalf. Well, I enjoyed most of it. There were times that I felt I was banging my head against the wall. Sometimes the arguing and out and out fist fighting made the office not so nice a place to be. This I surely will not miss. Overall, however, the mission was how to improve the member’s quality of life, in the long term.

Being a part of leadership, we would be concerned with the fact that you lost four hours OT, of course.

However, working to set policy of how to avoid that from happening in the first place would benefit all members. How best to craft such a policy, as it would apply to everyone, is not nearly as simple or easy as you are thinking right now. Until you have a seat at the table, no, you can’t appreciate what goes into it. Being on the inside, able to add my two cents, I think is what I will miss most. I brought a different perspective.

My work at the BPPA was always performed through one filter. What would most benefit the members, one of whom was me? I can proudly say to you that after eight years of being your Treasurer, not a single dollar has gone to benefit someone because of a relationship with me. We don’t purchase insurance from my neighbor, the owner of an insurance agency. The CPA’s in my family would have loved to have the BPPA as a client. They might have even saved the BPPA money (initially), but the appearance of a conflict of interest, where none existed, might have undermined your faith in me, or in the BPPA as your Union. That would be unacceptable to me.

To my successor I say that there are relationships that the BPPA enjoys, that have existed for many years.

Some I established in the early nineties. Some my predecessors established. They have served our interests and been loyal to us for many years and through the terms of four consecutive treasurers. I hope their loyalty is rewarded with continued confidence. Lest anyone read anything into this, by the time you read this article, I will have discussed this with Tom Pratt and introduced him to these

people, who are the behind the scenes engine that help drive the BPPA. What a smooth segue into the “Thank you everyone” part of the article. Thank you to my fellow members of the leadership team.

A large and truly heartfelt “Thank you” to Ann Parolin and Ann Marie Daly. You have made my time at the BPPA special. Not just because you are the rock foundation of our office, but because I do understand, and I do appreciate, that the work that you did to support my efforts, truly made my job, and therefore my life easier. Over the course of my eight years we have lived life with all its ups and downs.

Children have come into our lives, and we have said goodbye to loved ones. We have had spats like siblings and shared laughs over aging parents.

With all said and done, it has been my pleasure and my gain, I miss it already. Thank you.

Thank you to Bill Louthan, BPPA bookkeeper extraordinaire. I don’t know how many people know that Bill had a real health scare earlier this year. After surgery he spent a couple of months at home. I have never said this to Bill, but I was concerned (and fearful) that it was serious enough, that I thought I might have to try and replace him. I have to sheepishly admit that I began the process of trying to find a replacement, should it have proven necessary. What I learned is that his skills and talents, and how the BPPA utilizes him, is unique. His dedication, work effort, and loyalty to our organization could not be replaced with three people. Bill and his wife Jean are special people. They too have made my life better by having entered into it. Thank you.

For almost two decades, Greg Messer has been involved with the BPPA finances, as the independent CPA who performs our audit. Greg has been telling it like it is for years.

In some ways the BPPA, because of what we do and how we do it, will never conform entirely to Greg’s high standards. When he speaks, we listen.

He has been one of our trusted advisors for years. I thank him for his years of dedication.

Your dental benefits exist in no small part due to the efforts of Mr. Scott Holden. It was Scott who I

hooked up with back in 1993 to bring good dental benefits at an affordable price to the membership. His efforts on behalf of the Patrolmen’s union have been spectacular. His work for the BPPA (and the DBS and SOF and BFD union) has a proven track record.

There are tough times ahead for the dental insurance (and health insurance) and as a paying member of the dental plan, I encourage his continued participation. Thank you, Scott.

Thank you to all my friends that have stood by me over the years. You know who you are, I know who you are, and I am indebted to you. THANK YOU! I believe that the way I handled the business of the BPPA set a high standard for those people we do business with. All decisions were based on what was best for the members. I am uncomfortable taking Red Sox tickets, or an expensive dinner, less the vendor think that they may be entitled to something, that otherwise might not have happened. It has always been about you the members, that I can assure you.

Have I made mistakes? Not provided the service you desired? I apologize to all who feel slighted, real or imagined.

I know that I leave the BPPA in good shape. Due in no small part to my efforts, and with my oversight, the BPPA is at it’s financial strongest. I leave you with diverse investments of $600+K that profited $82,000 this year.

We have an additional $400K in our building fund. Our general fund is healthy and our PAC (political action Comm.) funds are poised for a busy legislative year. The dental plan has issues that will take much effort in the coming months, but my successor will hit the ground running. A continued effort toward obtaining benefits by the leadership must be a priority. There are concerns though, and I have expressed them to Tom Pratt. Most of the concerns lie in the “what if?” scenarios. But I am a firm believer in saving for the rainy day, and being prepared for it. I may go camping when the weather forecast is for a beautiful weekend, but I always bring shelter, a rain suit and extra dry clothes.

At the risk of sounding like sour grapes, I am disappointed in the turn

out for the election. One-third voter turn out is poor. While I realize that the position of Treasurer may seem inconsequential to most of you, there was a bylaw question on the ballot also. When the membership is not active enough to get involved by driving a couple of miles to vote, changes can occur that could be irreversible.

Those of you who have never stepped forward to run for an elected office do not understand how grueling it can be. Both my opponent and I have been working tirelessly for several weeks, attempting to get our message out.

Whom ever you supported, for whatever reasons, YOU should have voted.

You have no excuse.

I began this last column with “I write this article with mixed emotions”. And so it is. It has been a mere 36 hours and my pity party is over, and the celebration of a new phase has begun. Last night we had the traditional family Christmas party (on my wife’s side). I sat there knowing that I will have much more time with my family now. I have compiled a list of things that I no longer have to concern myself with, urgent matters that now belong to my opponent. There are half-finished efforts that he can choose to pick up and run with, or discard. I promise to work with Tom Pratt to make sure that nothing falls through the cracks during this transition. But at the end of the month, they are in fact, his problems, his issues, and his work.

I will go about quietly making a living (more money, less aggravation I’m sure). My family has welcomed me back, with open arms. It is to them that I owe the most thanks. They have supported me through all of this, often times asking me if it was all worth it. My wife Sharon is everything to me, and I look forward to paying her back in triple. Sharon’s sacrifices and anxiety through all of this has been the worse part. I do hope I can make it up, as it has literally been years of sacrifice. Maybe I can even schedule our project completion dates in weeks, instead of years! I look forward to trying.

As always, be safe, live life, enjoy life.

May you all have a healthy, prosperous New Year.

Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

Secretary’s Spread

By Jay Broderick, BPPA Secretary New Police Comm.

Edward Davis The new year brings a new police commissioner into our ranks. Police Commissioner Davis inherits a department suffering a lack of staffing, as well as, potential problems with morale as contract negotiations linger on with no end in sight. The incidents of street violence remain a huge concern for all of the citizens of Boston. The new Commissioner is said to be a strong supporter of community policing and directed types of investigations. What will remain to be seen is whether or not the City’s administration will give him the necessary resources (money and manpower) that he will surely need to accomplish these goals. During his swearing in ceremony, Commissioner Davis stated that some of the best ideas about policing come from the street cops. I hope that he seeks input from the men and women of this department who are out on the streets doing actual police work as much as the people who analyze the stats and read the reports the day after an incident occurs.

The quantity and quality of the police work performed by the street cops continues to improve and it’s because of those cops, our members that the number of shootings declined and part one crimes are down. I, along with everyone at the BPPA, look forward to working with Commissioner Davis on the many important issues facing the membership of the Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association.

Welcome Home PO Terry Burke On Tuesday December 5th, I had the honor to be present at Area C6 for the welcoming home of Police Officer Terrance “Shane” Burke.

Terry returned to Boston after months of rehabilitation at Fort Sam Houston in Texas.

As we all know, Terry suffered serious injuries while serving

in Iraq with the USMC 1/25 Weapons Company.

Terry was welcomed home by his family, friends, fellow Marines, and a large contingent of Boston Police Officers. Mayor Menino and Commissioner Davis were also on hand to welcome Terry home. MOP, many of them on their own time, provided the escort from Logan Airport to Area C6. The Boston Fire Department hung a huge American flag over Broadway that Terry and his motorcade passed beneath.

Though Terry’s return got the most notice and every bit of it well deserved, I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge the other members of the BPPA, who have recently returned home, after serving our country, just as heroically.

Men like Mike Brown, Dan McMorrow, Mike Fayles, and Doug Williams (EMS), all who served in Iraq with Terry.

These men are just a small example of the many members of the BPPA and the Department who have answered our country’s call and for their service, These men are just a small example of the many members of the BPPA and the Department who have answered our country’s call and for their service, Thank you.

BPPA Elections On December 8th, 2006 the BPPA held an election for the position of Treasurer in addition to a vote on a proposed

By Law. Despite the fact that it was a freezing day and there was only one leadership position up for contention, over 475 members showed up and voted. The By Law was soundly defeated by a vote of 315 to 102. The election for the Treasurer’s position was won

by Tom Pratt by a vote of 290 to 190. Both candidates ran

good campaigns and Dan’s service to the BPPA over the past eight years should be much appreciated. To all of you who took the time out of your day to come to the BPPA and cast a ballot for either Tom Pratt or Dan Fagan and to vote on the proposed By Law, it is greatly appreciated.

I am very honored to be able to serve another two years as the Secretary of the BPPA. I have tried to accomplish the goals that I set when I took office. I didn’t appreciate the amount of work that it takes to get new ideas up and running. My goals within the BPPA continue to be a work in progress and while I am comfortable with what I have done so far, I will continue to try to improve the way I do things. I hope that I have lived up to my side of the bargain and I look forward to serving with the other members in the leadership, the House of Reps, and all our members. I thank you again for your confidence.

I honestly believe that the BPPA is “run” by the membership. The day-to-day activities may be the responsibility of the BPPA leadership but the direction that the union goes in should be done so by the power of the membership. It’s the Reps that you elect and the leadership positions that are responsible to carry out the wishes of the membership. Recently someone said to me that the union did a great job with the collection for slain Manchester PO Michael Briggs. I said that they were right. The “union” did do a great job. The men and women of the “union” collected $20,000 and donated it to Officer Brigg’s family.

The leadership of the BPPA may have helped get the word out and counted, deposited, and delivered the check but it was the membership, the “union”, which donated the money. This was no different than a funeral and a fundraiser. It’s the membership that makes those events

successful.

Relief Assoc. Award On December 10th I was very humbled and honored to have received the Detective Sherman C. Griffiths Memorial Medal of Honor. I don’t believe that the incident that I was involved in was worthy of such an honor but I was proud to have been selected.

A few days prior to the award ceremony I learned that a number of fellow officers who were with me at the incident did not receive the same honors that I was fortunate to have received. I’m not quite sure as to why they weren’t but I can tell you that nothing that I did during that incident was any more courageous than what those officers did.

Sgt. Eddie Meade, Police Of-

…anytime that I place that ribbon on my uniform, I will always know that those men were with me that night. ficers Steve Gill, Danny Humphreys, Rich Kelly, and Warren Hoppie are just as deserving of recognition for this incident as I. Though I had no control concerning who gets the actual award and am not quite sure why they didn’t receive this honor as well, I can assure you that anytime that I place that ribbon on my uniform, I will always know that those men were with me that night.

Rest in Peace PO Denise Corbett In the past two years I have responded to many critical incidents involving our members. On Sunday, December 3, 2006 I went to one of the saddest. I responded to a call involving the death of one of our members. I quickly learned that Denise Corbett, a police officer from Area E5, the wife of Boston Police Mark Corbett, and the mother of five children had passed away. To say that I was

shocked and saddened is an understatement.

I met Denise in 1987 when we were both appointed as Police Cadets. She was a very kind and even-keeled person who, despite being new to Boston, kept right up with the locals who formed our Cadet class. Many tough mornings followed the parties at “Krafty’s” apartment in Dorchester. It was time when we had very little cares in the world and lived in the moment. You will be hard pressed to find anyone who would utter an unkind word about Denise. The way that people felt about her was evident with the turnout at the wake and funeral. Though I didn’t see Denise that often the past few years, I always enjoyed it when I did get a chance to talk to her.

Denise’s death will affect many people in a number of different ways. There will be tough times ahead for Mark and his children. The phone at the BPPA has not stopped ringing with inquiries as to how to help Mark and the kids. Denise’s co-workers have established a fund that will hopefully ease some of burden from Mark’s shoulders. Anyone wishing to make a donation may do so by going to any Bank of America and requesting that their donation be put into the Corbett Family Fund. (see page A14 for more details.)

Denise’s death should serve as a reminder that we are all human beings first. We all have stresses in our lives and issues that we must face.

The very nature of our jobs is to be in control and to be stronger than the next person.

Sometimes we can’t be that strong. Sometimes we need help or guidance. Maybe sometimes, we don’t see those needs in ourselves and we need our loved ones or friends to help us, even if not asked.

Rest in peace, Denise.

You’ll be missed.

As always, stay safe.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

Francis “Kicka” Lang: a maggot and a scumbag But will the Charlestown “ townies” admit it???

By Jim Carnell, Pax Editor

Dear Charlestown: As a 25-year veteran police officer, I write this letter to you in the wake of the conviction of Francis “Kicka” Lang, who was recently (12/12/06) and thankfully convicted of the coldblooded, malice-aforethought, murder of an outstanding man and Suffolk County Deputy Sheriff named Ricky Dever. As you know, Ricky Dever, the brother of my fellow BPD officer Brendan Dever, was savagely and brutally murdered by this scumbag as he attempted to remove him from Sullivan’s bar on Main St. last March. Lang, the scumbag, had been out on parole from federal prison for 22 days when he stabbed and mutilated Dever, not only killing him but slashing his face. Lang, the dirtbag, is a career criminal who had been barred from entering Sully’s bar. Ricky Dever, assisting the bartender, attempted to remove him and was subsequently killed by this maggot.

The thing that truly bothers me, though, is that the silence from socalled “townies”- AKA longtime resi-

dents of Charlestown, has been deafening. That, in and of itself, is a disgrace. I have read various accounts in the local media whereby the scumbag Lang has been described as being from a “good family” whose mother has been afforded the unofficial title of “Mayor of Charlestown”. This title has supposedly been conferred despite the fact that other family members have also found their way to federal/state prison by virtue of their criminal acts.

Mrs. Lang- I do not know you nor do I wish to know you, but you are the unfortunate mother of a townie scumbag, murderer and piece of garbage who does not deserve Massachusetts’ lenient “life in prison without parole”. Your son is a piece of shit who took the life of a good, decent, outstanding human being who was a credit to his family and his community. That, Mrs. Lang, is my opinion as a police officer who is sometimes assigned to Charlestown, but more importantly as a human being. Your son, Mrs. Lang, is a worthless scumbag. If you are still, by some incredible stretch of “townie” stupidity, known as the “unofficial Mayor of

Charlestown”, then indeed, as nowretired Charlestown BPD officer Al Whiffen often said (and is no longer in fear of retribution due to said retirement) “the place is built on a nuclear waste dump”. How apropos.

I sincerely hope that some members of the Charlestown community, whether long-time “townies” or new transplants, would step forward and publicly repudiate the type of scum represented by “Kicka” Lang and his ilk.

I sincerely hope that some members of the Charlestown community, whether long-time “townies” or new transplants, would step forward and publicly repudiate the type of scum represented by “Kicka” Lang and his ilk. When I began dating my wife Jeanne in the early 80s, who hails from Southie, I recall the myths that

abounded at the time about James “Whitey” Bulger, i.e.: that he “kept the drugs out of Southie, he protected Southie,” etc. Of course, that was a lie: Whitey Bulger was an absolute scumbag and murderer. And the family that protected him and covered up his criminal enterprise is and was, in my opinion, just as guilty. If a brother of mine had murdered, raped and pillaged in the same way that “Whitey” Bulger did, that blood connection would no longer exist, as far as I’m concerned.

But unfortunately, too many “townies” will probably circle the wagons and defend “Kicka”, or at least defend his family. And that’s too bad. Because what Charlestown needs, from this veteran cop’s perspective, is for good people to step forward and call “Kicka” Lang what he truly is: a worthless scumbag. May he rot in hell and “enjoy the company” (so-to-speak) of some strapping, young cellmates in Cedar Junction, to put it in PC terms. Kicka Lang is a scumbag and a maggot who killed a good and decent man named Ricky Dever. Go ahead and say it, townies.

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PAX CENTURION

PAGE A7

Bargaining update continued from page A1

in the new year if no progress is perceived in the very near future. For our

…despite the Mayor’s frequent proclamations that he’s “pro-union” and the “friend of the working man,” the truth is often the polar opposite. newer members, get used to this state of affairs: despite the Mayor’s frequent proclamations that he’s “prounion” and the “friend of the working man”, the truth is often the polar opposite. It’s easy to make that claim when you’re declaring support for janitors or steelworkers who don’t work for you. The Mayor is fond of showing up at pro-union rallies and breakfasts on Labor Day with the pinkie-ring phonies of the alleged labor movement who’ve already sold themselves to the Mayor and kissed his ring. But as most experienced veterans know, it’s simply “Déjà vu, all over again…”

New Comm. Davis continued from page A1

priests, Protestant ministers, Jewish rabbis, Islamic Imams, Tibetan Monks, Taoists, Wiccans, naturalists, nudists, snake-worshipers, agnostics, atheists, and abolitionists. However, a number of comments made to the media the day of the new PC’s arrival have caused some raised eyebrows down here at 9-11 Shetland St. Specifically, shortly before the palm fronds were thrown in Mattapan, in an interview with the Herald, Comm. Davis states the following: “The great thing about community policing is that it is a philosophy. …What needs to happen is that we need to sit down with the command staff and the community and make a determination as to what makes sense here in Boston.”

Uhhmm, nothing about the patrol force, Comm. Davis? You remember them, the ones who actually do the police work that the command staff takes credit for? The men and women who actually answer the 911 calls? Do we sit down with them and find out what they’re thinking? Or are we simply destined for another Paul Evansstyle dictatorship of virtue, where the patrol force is treated like errant chil-

The Boston Police Department Peer Support Unit “Sometimes even we need a little help from our friends” We are a peer driven support program for police officers and their families Our program is strictly confidential and is available to all police officers and their families Group or individual help with handling family and life issues alcohol drugs anger and domestic issues Referral for specialist as needed

River Street • Mattapan MA Office: Mon Fri:

Off Hours On call Peer Counselor:

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 dren, to be seen but not heard?

Comm. Davis is quoted in the Globe saying “Officers have downtime and can be more efficient. To prevent crime, you need to get out of the cruiser…” Or perhaps out from behind the flotilla of desks at Headquarters, Commissioner Davis? We seem to have a cornucopia of civilian bureaucrats with take-home cars and strapping, young political appointees who pass out “McGruff the Crime-dog” crayons and coloring books while 59year-old officers answer dangerous 911 calls. Perhaps we could expunge the department of the stench of City Hall meddling and return to some down and dirty, “get-your-sorrycriminal-butt-off-my-corner-or-I’ll-introduce-your-rear-end-to-my-size-13” police work? Maybe bring back some “progressive” Bob Hayden-style policing, so that the scumbags understand who owns the streets?

Or will we see more of the “blamethe-union/blame-the-cops” philosophy popularized by the Globe and self-appointed “community activists”? You know, the philosophy that

blames the cops for the fact that so few witnesses come forward and cooperate, that blames the cops for not making arrests where there’s no probable cause to make an arrest, or blames the cops because brain-dead Suffolk County juries laden with nitwit liberal boobs won’t convict obviously guilty dirtbags. The philosophy whereby liberal eunuchs wearing black robes posing as judges release to the streets animals who have been arrested 30, 50, 70 times (or more!) and then have the audacity to berate, belittle and embarrass the police or accuse us of racial profiling, or brutality, or corruption, among other things.

Yes, Comm. Davis, the cause of crime has much more to do with these factors than with blaming the cop “for not getting out of his car”. But what do we know? We’re just the street cops, not the “command staff” or “the community” whom you’re so eager to have a sit-down with.

But welcome to Boston, Comm.

Davis. We look forward to working with you in a mutually cooperative and beneficial manner.

Command staff fights to drive Ms. Davis

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

CONGRATULATIONS 2006 Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association We wish you the best of luck in your continued dedication to young people with this year’s Scholarship Fund.

from your friends at

Natick Mall, Silver City Galleria & Faneuil Hall Marketplace General Growth Properties generalgrowth.com

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

Thomas Drechsler, Esq.

FINNERAN, BYRNE & DRECHSLER, L.L.P. Counsel to Members of the Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association

This is to be sung to the tune of the venerable Christmas Carol “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen.” lyrics by Tom Mozart Drechsler et. al.

Beware you lazy bureaucrats Who work not a full day, A brand new boss you do not know May up and cut your pay, To civil service rank you’ll go For doing less each day Oh don’t take my take-home car away, civilians say, Oh don’t take my take-home car away.

Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year to each and every one of you in the law enforcement community.

Without the efforts of those who work on the street to enforce the laws, we know that we would not have the quality of life that we have. In this time of reflection it is also important to remember our servicemen and -women overseas.

From all of us at Finneran, Byrne & Drechsler, to all of you, the best.

Have a very safe and happy Holiday Season.

In Schroeder Plaza there are folks We don’t know what they do, Perhaps they’ll go to walking beats And answer calls like you, They’ll have to drive old beat-up cars Instead of take-homes new Oh for gas and insurance they don’t pay, they don’t pay, Oh for gas and insurance they don’t pay.

The phonies plot to cozy up To new Commissioner Ed, They’ll all get out their verbal knives To claw their way ahead, They’ll all say “why make him the boss?”

“It should be me instead!”

Oh why is it I am not the boss, not the boss, Oh why is it that I am not the boss.

For violence and the rising crime They’ll fault the Union too, But we all know the problem is Of cops there are too few, We need more units on the street Dressed up in suits of blue But civilians there never are too few, never too few, Of civilians there never are too few.

Another year has passed us by We watch the same old game, For everything that comes to pass There’s someone else to blame, But we all know the more things change The more they stay the same Oh tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy Oh tidings of comfort and joy

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

Altria Group is Proud to Support the BPPA’s Scholarship Fund The Altria family of companies has been giving back to its communities for more than 45 years. We do it because it is the right thing to do.

Making a Difference

We are proud of our commitment to the arts and our efforts to foster educational opportunities for deserving students. We are—as a corporation and as employees—fighting hunger, helping victims end the cycle of domestic violence and providing humanitarian aid to those in need. We take pride in the diversity of our products, our communities and our most valuable asset—our people. And we support organizations that are working to make a difference in our communities.

That is why today, and everyday, we salute the BPPA’s Scholarship Fund.

© 2004 Altria Group, Inc. Paid for by Altria Corporate Services, Inc.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

Bryan Decker, Esq., BPPA Labor Counsel

SANDULLI GRACE, P.C. Counsel to Members of the Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association

BPPA moves to halt city’s illegal merger of Muni’s On December 1, we filed a motion in Suffolk Superior Court to enjoin the City of Boston’s illegal transfer of unqualified Boston Municipal Police Department employees into the Boston Police Department.

The City has announced plans to “abolish” the BMPD by December and to transfer its officers into the BPD. As usual, the City got it only half right. For decades, we’ve demanded that the City abolish this rogue police operation (you’ll recall that we succeeded in booting Muni’s from the Boston Housing Authority several years ago). Still, the City is moving full steam ahead to transfer Munis, even if the BPD rejected the Muni officer in the past. In other words, you face the distinct prospect of being forced to work alongside officers previously deemed to be unsuitable to work alongside you.

In order to transfer Muni’s into your civil service position, the City must establish that the Muni’s are permanent civil service employees whose position is similar to yours and who obtained their job in a manner like you did. I don’t need to convince you that these contentions are downright laughable. Muni’s are not per-

manent civil service employees, do not work in similar positions, do not endure the hazards or risks in a year that you do on a daily basis, and were not hired in a manner even roughly akin to the merit-based process you underwent.

First, we argue that the Muni’s are not permanent civil service employees because they received their jobs in violation of civil service laws and were granted permanent status in violation of civil service laws. Generally, persons may obtain a civil service Boston Police job only by one of four measures: original appointment, which involves prevailing on a competitive exam; successfully apprenticing under the cadet program for two years; transferring from another civil service police department; or a provisional appointment. The last two options are inapplicable here because the BPD has a proud tradition of never accepting lateral transfers and it cannot make provisional appointments because there always is a long list of eligible candidates waiting to be hired.

For the original appointment and cadet process, you also must pass a thorough background check by an elite BPD unit, graduate from a full 28-

City Budget Director Lisa Signori balances the budget on the backs of city workers, with an eye to a career on Wall Street.

week Boston Police Academy, and serve one full year on the beat as a patrol officer. Then and only then can you proudly consider yourself a Boston Police Officer.

By contrast to this rigorous and methodical process, the majority of Muni’s obtained their jobs by, nudgenudge, wink-wink, an application and interview. This small process made the Muni Department into what the press has called a “haven for patronage.” Other Muni’s obtained their job by writing a one-page junior-hightype-essay about “Why I Want The Job.” The person who hired Muni’s is the civilian head of the Property Division (aka the City’s super), who has never worked the streets as a police officer or dealt with the hazards you experience on a daily basis. Muni’s obtained job protection as police officers after only one year of employment in any Muni job – many obtained job protection prior to graduating from their mini-police academy.

Civil service law defines a permanent employee as only those employees who received an original appointment and passed a probationary period. For that reason alone, Muni’s cannot be transferred as none received an original civil service appointment to their job. The BPD hiring process is nothing like the process used to snare a job as a Muni, a notorious den of cronyism. To obtain their job, no Muni ever passed a competitive civil service examination, no Muni apprenticed as a cadet for two years, no Muni passed a rigorous background examination, and no Muni graduated from a full Boston Police Academy. No Muni ever received a provisional appointment, either, which requires that the City get approval from the State for not abiding civil service hiring procedures. In sum, not a single member of the Muni security force was hired according to civil service law. It is no surprise that many Muni officers in the past failed repeatedly to gain employment with the BPD. Regardless of how they nabbed their jobs, Muni’s also have not lawfully obtained permanent status as civil service employees. Most Muni’s rely on a 1998 home rule petition by City Council to establish their permanency. The City passed a home rule petition in 1998 (later approved by the

Legislature) that granted permanent civil service to provisional civil service employees. At the time, the City Council expressly stated that this law did not apply to Muni’s, who did not hold civil service positions and were not provisional appointees.That didn’t stop the City and the State, however, from subverting this law in 1999 to grant permanent status to Muni’s employed at the time. Of Muni’s not provided this generous perk, the City this summer asked the Civil Service Commission give permanent status to these leftovers. The Civil Service Commission complied. We appealed this decision to Superior Court.

The transfer also is illegal because a Muni job, as you know in your gut, is nothing like working the beat for the BPD. The City has admitted as much. In the past, the City claimed that Muni’s were not police officers, they instead were civilians with guns —like department store security guards. Also, Muni’s cannot serve arrest warrants, enforce traffic laws, or operate beyond the limited bounds of City property. It is downright insulting to compare a Muni job to yours.

If the jobs really are similar, why is the City demoting all Muni’s to the rank of patrol officer?

Given the looming deadline for the illegal transfer of Muni’s, we have asked the court to intervene and stop the madness. The Superior Officers’ Federation plans to join our struggle in court, and we hope the detectives are not far behind. The case should be heard and decided before the end of 2006. The City is doing everything it can and enlisting every enemy of ours to defeat us. We learned this in the 2004 fight over the contract and the DNC convention, when Attorney General Reilly, Governor Romney, the Joint Labor Management Committee and the courts all jumped to Mayor Menino’s aid. That is why it is critically important to remain committed to the cause we know to be true and just, when no one else will, and to uphold the integrity of our longstanding civil service laws.

To learn the outcome of this litigation, stay tuned to the BPPA web site, the Sandulli Grace web site, and to BPPA bulletin boards in all the districts.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

Genzyme thanks the dedicated professionals of the Boston Police Department for their tireless proactive support of Boston Biotechnology Companies.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

Research Bureau blames city workers for $$$ increases, but…

Health Insurance: the REAL reasons why costs are going up…

Rich, tax-exempt colleges, hospitals, pay next to nothing

By Jim Carnell, Pax Editor

A RECENT “STUDY” by the Boston Municipal Research Bureau attempted to blame health insurance cost increases on city employees by making the specious claim that “it takes five average taxpayers to pay the city’s share of the average family health insurance premium for one city employee”. The alleged study, issued in predictable fashion by Boston Municipal Research Bureau President Sam Tyler, was issued soon after the Globe publicized recent increases in Boston’s property tax rates.

But as anyone familiar with Boston’s dirty politics knows, these things don’t happen in a vacuum. Reports of this nature do not simply “appear” by happenstance.

As I have learned over the years, the media, City Hall, other political entities and these alleged “independent study groups” (i.e.- Tyler’s Boston Municipal Research Bureau, Suffolk University/ Prof. David Tuerck’s Beacon Hill Institute, Jeff Conley’s Boston Finance Commission, etc. etc.) all collude together on the timing, content and issuance of their reports. Deny all you want Mr. Tyler, Mayor Menino, Budget Director Lisa Signori and the editorial board of the Boston Globe, that’s simply “the way things work” here in Boston politics.

We know it and you know it.

As the prostitute contracts with the john and the pimp, so does the media, the politicians and the local “thinktanks” consort in similar (though distinctly less honest) fashion. (You may not appreciate my patrolman’s somewhat base comparison in this regard, but I do think it’s apropos, n’est ce pas?) In fact, to simply prove my point, on the day following the timed release of the Research Institute’s report, the Boston Globe printed an editorial entitled “Hale workers, sick cities” (Nov. 30th, 06, editorial page). In this editorial, the Globe slammed municipal workers and public employee

unions for health insurance cost increases. And -surprise, surprise!?- the Globe used the Research bureau’s pointed rhetoric about “five Boston” taxpayers” allegedly paying for each employee’s health insurance costs.

The natural connection that most angry taxpayers will make with this report (fully expected and anticipated by the movers and shakers previously mentioned) is that Boston’s “greedy” municipal employees (cops, EMTs, firefighters, teachers, public workers, etc.) are, ipso-facto, responsible for their property tax increases.

These baseless impressions will then be put to use by the city and her allies to deflect the justifiable demands of city workers for a wage increase commensurate with the cost of living (and in many cases, being required to live) in one of the most expensive cities in the USA. Soon after the Globe editorial appeared, I personally called the BMRB and spoke to Mr. Tyler at length (12/1). To give credit where credit where is due, Mr. Tyler defended his report intelligently and never once cut me off, though I disagreed with him vehemently about the content and timing of his report and the rhetorical intent of using the “five taxpayers- one city worker” comparison. I informed Mr. Tyler that I was of the opinion that health insurance costs had skyrocketed over the years due to a number of factors which had nothing to do with municipal workers but were “politically incorrect” to even discuss.

Chiefly, from my observations as a police officer and my numerous conversations with medical workers around Boston, the number one reason why health costs are soaring for the average worker is: health costs associated with those who don’t/won’t work and-or don’t/won’t pay for health insurance. (I can hear the liberal phonies running away screaming right now.)

In my opinion, skyrocket-

ing health care costs in Boston are caused for two reasons: First, take a walk into any hospital in the city. Take a look at how few people using the hospital’s services actually work for a living or have health insurance. Now employ a little bit of common sense: Somebody has to pay for all of the bums, illegal immigrants and freeloaders who use the ambulance, the emergency room, the doctors, the nurses, the hospital rooms, the medical equipment, the tests and the prescriptions.

And that someone is you and me. When my wife takes the kids for (infrequent) medical appointments, the first thing she’s asked for is the cash copayment. No copay-no service. (And after that, we get bills for hundreds of dollars in charges, which the insurance company declined to pay, like braces or bandages.)

But I’ve escorted worthless junkie prisoners to the hospital for treatment when they’re nothing more than dope-sick or tired of sitting in jail on a long weekend, and the battery of “free” tests that the doctors perform to avoid charges of malpractice is astounding. (The ambulance trip alone costs $700-$800) No co-pay is ever asked or required of these mendicant sloths. The emergency rooms are filled to the rafters with a plague of illegal aliens and welfare bums, all of whom claim to be indigent, all demanding free treatment. And somebody has to pay…

Secondly, I asked for and received from Mr. Tyler a list of tax-exempt properties in the city of Boston. The fact is that in fiscal year 2007, fully 54.9% of all property in the City of Boston is tax-exempt, including colleges, universities, hospitals, churches and a slew of alleged “non-profits”.

And that figure has grown from 47.3% of all city property in fiscal 2001! So as Harvard University, BC, BU, Beth Israel, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, etc. etc. ad nauseum pay virtually nothing in prop-

erty taxes, (they pay a few shekels in the form of “in lieu of tax” payments) the Boston taxpayer is left paying the freight and the average city worker becomes the scapegoat. Personally, I paid more than twice in federal, state and local taxes (over 30K) in 2005 than, for example, Simmons College paid (a mere $15,000) “in lieu of taxes” that same year! Multibillion dollar institutions like Harvard and BU pay a tiny fraction compared to the average municipal worker’s tax burden. These institutions use city police, fire ambulance and public services for their thousands of students, workers, visitors and patients each and every day. But who bears the brunt of the anger and blame about rising health in-

surance costs? WE DO! It would be nice if some politician would stand up and tell the truth about what the real problem is that’s causing health insurance costs to skyrocket, and it’s not the public employee. But that might require a spine and subject said politician to charges of being “insensitive” to the needs of our poor illegal immigrants, bums, welfare freeloaders and—on the other side of the same coin—the rich freeloaders and welfare recipients who pull down mega-salaries at the top of “non-profit” organizations, colleges, hospitals etc. But no, it’s always easier to blame the cop, the EMT, the firefighter or the teacher.

Thank You to the Membership I would like to thank the men and women of the BPPA who took time out of their busy day to vote in the BPPA Treasurer election that was held on Friday, December 8th. As you may or may not know by now I have been elected to that position and I feel honored and privileged to be able to serve the membership in this capacity. I look forward to working for you in the coming months. If you should ever need anything or have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact me, my door is always open.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Dan Fagan, current BPPA Treasurer, for his many years of dedicated service to the members of this Association.

Again please accept my thanks and I look forward to the future.

Fraternally Tom Pratt

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

Police Officer

Denise M. Corbett The unexpected passing of Denise shall leave a void in the hearts of all who love and admire her. She is and always will be remembered as one who was infinitely willing to give of herself.

Her farewell is accepted with the deepest of sorrows.

Denise’s family will need the moral support of her fellow Officers and friends. Mark and the children will surely need our financial assistance as well. In a time of misfortune, let there be no doubt, Denise would be among the first to knock upon the door of a troubled friend or colleague. It is now time for each of us to knock upon her door to offer our assistance. We earnestly appeal that you give to her and her family as she would have certainly given to each one of us. Thank you for your generosity.

Donations to assist the Corbett Family can be made by contacting a BPPA Representative or by addressing a “For Deposit Only” check to: “The Corbett Family Fund” c/o Bank of America 1857 Centre Street West Roxbury, MA 02132

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In Memoriam

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

An open letter about a friend I want to state first and foremost that I was a very good friend of Denise (Kraft) Corbett’s. In 1987 I first met Denise at the supposed “Cadet Academy”. It lasted six weeks and for all of those that were fortunate enough to have gone through this brutally harsh training, you know how tough it was because it was run by my father. In that six weeks I met a genuinely sweet, dear girl from the town of Normal, Illinois who came to the City of Boston for one single purpose and that was to become a Boston Police Officer.

Denise was absolutely my first crush of any girl from the Police Department. I thought she spoke very well and with that Midwest accent, differently from all the girls I knew from Dorchester or Charlestown (My apologies to all my sweethearts from Dorchester and Charlestown). She was very intelligent and had a tremendous sense of humor.

I actually forged up enough courage one day to ask her on a date. She actually had the presumption that I was too young for her because I was 19 at the time and she was all of the age of 21.

Oh well, life goes on.

Police Officer Denise M. Corbett January 9, 1965 - December 3, 2006

Christmastime at Arlington National Cemetery

Denise and I remained close through the next years. I even drove her to the Civil Service Police Exam at Jamaica Plain High where she scored a 99 and I scored a 98. Because of that one missed question I had to remain a Cadet for another year and a half while I saw Denise go through the Academy to become a Boston Police Officer.

I was lucky enough to get through the Boston Police Academy and eventually be assigned to Area E-5 (where Denise was assigned). After my probationary period, Denise and I rode together a couple of times and she tried to show me the ropes. One day I was on a day off doing a detail and I heard Denise (as a service unit) get a call for a domestic incident, which appeared to be just a report. She requested that the Bomb Squad be summonsed. I thought that it was curious so I listened more intently than normal. All of a sudden, to my horror, Frank Foley was critically injured and Jerry Hurley was killed from a bomb and there was chaos on the radio. Denise witnessed this horrendous incident but was unharmed and but for the grace of God was not killed herself.

After that Denise married an excellent police officer and great guy named Mark Corbett and soon after started a family.

Rest easy, sleep well my brothers.

Know the line has held, your job is done.

Rest easy, sleep well.

Others have taken up where you fell, the line has held.

Peace, peace, and farewell...

Every year since 1992 the Worcester Wreath Co. of Harrington, Maine donates some 5,000 to decorate headstones at the Arlington National Cemetery. The owner, Merrill Worcester, not only provides the wreaths, but covers the trucking expense as well.

Volunteers from the Maine Society and others perform this duty every year. Also, most years, groups

of Maine school children combine an educational trip to D.C. with this event to help out. Making this even more remarkable is the fact that Harrington is in one the poorest parts of the state.

Please share this with your loved onew. You hear too much about the bad things people do. Everyone should hear about this.

visit www.arlingtoncemetery.org/photo_gallery/12-14-04.htm to see the photo of wreaths laid in 2004

I was transferred to Area B for a couple of years and lost touch with Denise. I returned to Area E-5 and requested the last half shift. Denise happened to be the inside clerk on the last half shift and the re-acquaintance was more than gratifying. Denise had a couple of children and I was soon to be married. Denise and Mark were invited to and did attend my wedding.

We went on for about the next nine years working together on the last half shift in District 5. Denise would always give me movie reviews or bring in the excess candy from Halloween. We would exchange Christmas cards. I would always be buying some type of fund-raiser or Girl Scout Cookies from Denise and when I had children of the age she would do the same for me.

I particularly enjoyed our political discussions; especially during the 2004 election for President (Denise was further to the right than Rush Limbaugh). We have remained friends for nearly 20 years.

On December 3, 2006 Denise shockingly and unexpectedly passed away. I would just like to say that I will miss my friend and will always remember her, and for every word that is typed here on this paper there are many more tears.

P.O. Arthur McCarthy

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

Do As I Say, Not As I Do… (part 1) Jingle Bells (for illegally parked unmarked cars belonging to members of the BPD command staff) Lyrics by Hy Urna and Lowe Pradoosa

A day or two ago, I thought I’d take a stroll, And went outside the door, To take up my patrol, I looked ahead one block, And much to my surprise, The boss had parked his car, On clearly-marked white lines Oh, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells Cruiser in the way, Elderly and handicapped cannot get by today.

The handicapped and old, Could not make it around, This cruiser blocked the way, it’s driver wasn’t found.

The DS was called out, Misfortune was his lot, for if he towed this car, B-3 would be his spot!

These photos were taken by the BPPA aerial reconnaissance unit. The particular date, time and exact location has been deleted in order to protect the identity of our recon crew. They were taken after the guilty party had demanded that two patrol officers who had, in his opinion, “improperly used their blue lights” be suspended or disciplined by their commanding officer.

(Chorus) What’s good for you patrolmen, It’s obvious to see, The rules apply to you, They don’t apply to me!

The elderly and crippled, Can go walk in the street, So what if they’re on crutches, I’ve got both of my feet!

(Chorus)

Do As I Say, Not As I Do… (part 2) A Mattress address? Residency for all except our new PC Envision the following phone call being made to Internal affairs, residency enforcement: IAD: “Hello, Internal affairs, residency enforcement.”

Caller: “Yes, I’d like to report a newly hired BPD employee who appears to be in violation of the residency clause.”

IAD: “ Yes, go ahead, give me the particulars.”

Caller: “ Well, he’s just been newly hired by the BPD, so I assume he’s subject to residency.”

IAD: “That’s correct.”

Caller: “Well, he’s renting an apartment in the city, but his family lives in the suburbs and goes to suburban schools.”

IAD: “Is that right? Well, it looks like we’ve got a clear-cut violation of the residency law. What’s this scofflaw’s name?

Caller: “Ed Davis. He’s your new commissioner. He’s renting an apartment in South Boston but his family will continue to live in Lowell, at least until after his kids

graduate from school, or so he says right now. If a police officer had this living arrangement, it would be considered a “mattress address”, wouldn’t it? Hello? Hello? Internal Affairs???

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

Davis Marcus Partners is a Proud Supporter of the Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association SCHOLARSHIP FUND

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BPPA welcomes back hero

By Mark A. Bruno

A warm welcome from coworkers and no fanfare is what Police Officer Terry (Shane) Burke wanted on his return, but not on this day.

Officers Philbin and Rackauskas from C-6 who are very close to Terry knew how excited he was to be coming home for the holidays to be with friends and family. They drove over to Logan Airport with an entourage of Boston Police Officers to escort Terry back to District-six where a warm welcome awaited. He was unaware of the large crowd that came to pay their respects. West Broadway was cordoned off from A Street to B Street. The street was lined with motorcycles from MOP, and officers were lined up in formation to salute the Hero upon his arrival. Among the officers were Marines who served with Terry and were dressed in their Marine fatigues. Other dignitaries included our BPPA leadership, the BPD Command staff, the new Police Commissioner and the Mayor. Everyone was as excited with anticipation of the guest on honor’s arrival.

It was by far a fitting tribute for this hometown hero.

On behalf of the BPPA, I would like to thank the Boston Fire Department and its staff for providing the gateway in the form of two ladder trucks with their ladders extended straight up and a huge American flag hanging between them. So many times we’ve seen this but it is mostly

on a solemn occasion. Today it was to welcome an American Hero. The officers who escorted Terry stated he was overcome with emotion by the reception he received.

When Terry came from the cruiser and stood on crutches facing his audience a salute was rendered and the Boston Police Gaelic Column played the Marine Hymn along with patriotic songs. Terry shook hands with the dignitaries and was brought into the front lobby of District-6 where his co-workers awaited. Terry was taken upstairs to the community room where he stood and greeted a long line of well-wishers. Officers were happy to have Terry back at home for the holidays. His girlfriend and family were also overwhelmed by the outpouring of support given by his fellow officers.

A close friend of Terry had a sign made up welcoming the hero home. A special thank you goes out to John Gillespie, proprietor of Dunkin Donuts in Andrew Square, who provided coffee and baked goods for the event. A party at Florian Hall was given by the BPPA in honor of Terry Burke on December 12. Unfortunately it was given after this article was submitted so look in the next Pax for details and pictures.

In closing on behalf of all the officers I would like to wish Terry and his family a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

COPS awards scholarships Concerns of Police Survivors (COPS) has awarded $751,690 in scholarships to law enforcement survivors COPS awards scholarships three times annually. The awards for the Winter/Spring 2006-07 semester were recently made to 21 surviving children and two surviving spouses in 14 states and Puerto Rico, for a semester total of $29,205.

Since the inception of the COPS Scholarship Program in 1994, the group has awarded $751,690 to 173 surviving children and 60 surviving spouses who do not receive tuition-free education as a state death benefit. This fiscal year COPS gave $84,888 in scholarships.

COPS must raise every dollar given to survivors through scholarships. To support COPS in assisting survivors seeking higher education or training, contact the COPS National Office.

For more information, visit www.nationalcops.org

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

The Boston Police Department Peer Support Unit We are a peer driven support program for police officers and their families Our program is strictly confidential and is available to all police officers and their families Group or individual help with handling family and life issues alcohol drugs anger and domestic issues Referral for specialist as needed

River Street • Mattapan MA Office: Mon Fri:

Off Hours On call Peer Counselor:

“Sometimes even we need a little help from our friends”

Hey, councilor, what is your position on residency?

By Jim Barry, BPPA Legislative Agent

Many of the city’s politicians wish this question would just go away. BREAKING NEWS ... it is not going away. It is contained in every political BPPA questionnaire that is sent out to politicians seeking our endorsement and will continue to be included.

It has gained footing in every other union’s political agenda. Our questionnaire when completed helps BPPA members decide to approve endorsements and how for them and their families to vote for or against those candidates. I’ve been asked by politicians why they have to answer that question on residency. It is simple, BPPA members, all BPPA members and their families have the right to know where you stand on this issue of forced residency. You are either with us on the issue or against us.

This is America and the BPPA’s position has been and will continue to be nobody should be forced to live in any certain geographical area. We got this shoved down our throats by an arbitrator and will not stop until we over-

turn this unjust policy. Over 600 of our members and thousands of other city workers are forced to reside in the City of Boston. The issue is not going away. In fact it is gaining popularity and will become more and more organized at the grassroots level.

It is no longer just the unions banging away at the issue but wives, husbands, fathers and mothers organized and block voting to support or defeat candidates that are with them or against them on the issue.

The issue of residency will not go away. It is simple political math and when you run the numbers it is only a matter of time before we will prevail on the issue.

As City Councilor John Tobin has argued, there are roughly 8000 city employees required to live in the city out of a total population of 550,000. Do 8000 people make or break life here in Boston?

The answer is no, that is absurd. People live here because it’s a great city to live in. Secondly, another absurdity is the massive exodus when residency is removed. In fact the majority of BPPA members lived voluntarily in the

City of Boston prior to the rule. Many folks (thousands ) now living in the city, are city workers that are exempt from the residency rule.

At a recent hearing, City Councilor John Tobin (supported by Councilor Jerry McDermott) )introduced of a compromise amendment capping of residency at 5 years.

City Councilor Maureen Feeney, a long-time supporter of residency, took the floor of the council and attacked the issue, stating “been there, done that.” She continued saying, “we already visited this issue in April, why are we now visiting it again?” This is a new proposal, brought forward with the unions affected by the residency rule as a reasonable compromise solution to the issue of forced residency. The City Council holds hearings on many of the same issues over and over again. But this issue, many want to just go away. It’s not and it’s gaining political strength. Maybe the next election or the one after that. But trust me, it’s grassroots have taken hold. It is getting bigger and bigger.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

Health Safety Knowledge

Because health, safety and knowledge are among life’s most precious possessions, we’re proud to support the

Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association Scholarship Fund.

Visit us at www.harvardpilgrim.org

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

The Night Before Community Policing Christmas

By Clement Clarke Carnell

Twas the night before Christmas, in the old BPD, Not an employee was gruntled, especially not me.

The union had fought off a media barrage, And the “new” Station 1 looked like my garage.

“We’ll suck up and pander to so-called ‘Men of God’, from the Church of the Grant and the Temple of Fraud.

We’ll chant lots of slogans, decriminalize drugs, We’ll broker gang truces, give free tickets to thugs!”

Throughout the whole city, it was much the same, The stations; disgraceful, the cruisers; a shame.

Out at “14” in Brighton, or at “2” in Roxbury, Conditions for cops were the opposite of merry.

From the trunk of the cruiser, which was heavily laden, Came an elf with cujones, and his name was Bob Hayden.

“Free tickets for maggots? Decriminalize grass?

These punks deserve nothing but my shoe up their ass.”

As I entered my cruiser and took off my cap, I spilled God-dam coffee all over my lap.

When up on the roof there arose such a clatter, Even I, the non-caring, said “What the hell is the matter?”

The cops gave a cheer, but the Mayah, he thunk, Then he pushed the elf Hayden back into his trunk.

His rumpswabs, and lickspittles, and coatholders came, And he whistled and shouted and called them by name.

Then what to my wondering eyes should appear, But an unmarked cruiser pulled by command staff reindeer.

The cruiser was leased, either from National or Avis, And out stepped the Mayah and a Commissioner named Davis.

“On, Partnership, Problem-solving, Training, Prevention”, Bob Hayden-esque tactics, we simply can’t mention.”

They’re misunderstood youths, you can tell from their looks, Give them all McGruff crayons and coloring books.”

The cops all assembled, as such was their duty, And then came the command staff, to kiss the new booty.

As he started to speak their eyes turned to the heavens, And I thought to myself, “Boy, this sounds like Paul Evans”.

“Then pay off the reverends with a grant from the state, And I’ll turn media attention to that union I hate, They don’t toe the line, they don’t do as I say, It’s that rotten cop-union called “BPPA”.

And he screamed like the Grinch as he wished us all dead, while he patted his followers on top on their head, And I heard him exclaim as he drove out of sight, SCREW THE BPPA, Merry Christmas, Good Night!

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

Finneran, Byrne, & Drechsler, L.L.P. Attorneys at Law JAMES E. BYRNE THOMAS DRECHSLER KENNETH H. ANDERSON ERIC S. GOLDMAN

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(617) 265-3900 Telefax (617) 265-3627

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

THE VETERAN’S CORNER

By Pat Rose, C-11 Director Boston Police VFW Post #1018

Well, another season has passed us by. Autumn, better known as Fall, drifted by with as much subtleness as a bull in a china shop or a rattlesnake striking one’s genitalia as they strolled along a beautiful path overlooking some spectacular scenery. Yup, the Grand Old Party got hit with a ‘Nuke’. The Republicans haven’t taking a beaten this bad since John Fitzgerald Kennedy moved into the White House.

The American voter has spoken with an overwhelming voice, countrywide.

Sounds to me like they’re saying “End this thing and bring home the troops!” The Democrats have taken the House and the Senate and are poised to move back into the ‘Big Bed’, the White House.

For all of you young’ns out there, hold on to your wallet, you’re about to see a spending spree that’ll make your head spin. No it won’t be the big-ticket items; jets, battleships or new age military equipment, it’ll be Social Programs. Once again the government will attempt to cure the ills of society by throwing millions upon millions of dollars away on foolish programs, government grants, free handouts to everyone except the people that actually go out and keep it all going; you the middle class of America. Once again you will have to bear the brunt of a one-party system. It didn’t work for the Republicans and it won’t work for the Democrats. The Republicans of late went into a slash and burn policy concerning social services, and constituent services. Even military veterans agree that the Republican government overspent on military excursions around the world and didn’t pay enough attention to us right here at home.

But, having lived through the Johnson administration and even worse, the Carter administration, and having experienced firsthand what a

one-party Democratic rule can do to the military strength of this country, I say No Thank You. Having experienced the Clinton administration slash and burn politics against the military, I again say No Thank You. How about a middle of the road approach, how about this time we elect a moderate Republican for President and keep the Democratic House and Senate. Let’s add in term limits for all and maybe switch it up every eight years or so, just to keep ‘em honest.

Next time we go with a Democrat in the White house and a Republican Senate, you know, mix things up a bit.

Maybe, just maybe we could have a government that abided by the wishes of the people. Just think, representatives from one party and a manager from the other, pretty good balance I’d say.

We could have just enough social programs to keep us healthy and enough military to keep us safe. Sounds a little like what the founding fathers wanted, eh? Well enough politics you say, ok.

Political Correctness Speaking of the founding fathers, I would like to wish everyone a Very Merry Christmas, Oh yah, I said it Merry Christmas, look out, the ACLU will be hunting me down. How dare we wish anyone a Merry Christmas. I mean after all, it’s not considered ‘Politically Correct’ or is it. If I’m not mistaken, this country was founded by a group of people that had their religious rights and freedoms oppressed. A group of people, which undertook great and severe hardships to cross an ocean. An ocean, which separated them from oppression and religious freedom. A group of people that came to this strange, hard, harsh and sometimes deadly land, just to be free. All in the name of religious freedom. Those freedoms have been guaranteed

under our constitution and protected by our Military Veterans for many years. (You were wondering what this has to do with the Veterans, weren’t you). Christmas, not just a day, but a time of year.

Christmas, not only a religious holiday but a Federal Holiday. After 33 states had declared Christmas a legal holiday, the Federal government figured they had better jump on board. The U.S. Government declared Christmas to be a Federal Holiday, way back in 1870. Every one of the original 48 states had declared Christmas a legal holiday by 1890 with Alaska and Hawaii accepting its status prior to becoming states. Veterans have been observing Christmas as far back as the U.S. Civil War. There have been some notable cease fires over the years and through the many different wars during Christmas, and there have also been some despicable violations of those truces, but the American soldier recognizes the time, not just the day, the holiday, but Christmas time. Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and Airmen alike wish for the feelings of good will towards others. They wish for the ultimate Christmas present of peace and they pray to God, yes God. Because my friend, when you’re in combat, no matter what your religion, you definitely believe in GOD. It means more than just a celebration of the Christian faith, it means America, it means home, it brings up all the good that we as a country, a nation are. It’s the thoughts of smelling fresh baked pies, turkey or ham coming out of the oven, families sitting and sharing a meal together. People helping people, reaching out to make things better, Believe me when I tell you that there isn’t a Veteran out there that hasn’t celebrated Christmas.

Whether you are a Christian, a Jew, a Buddhist, a Muslim, a Druid, a Witch, a Hindu, an

Animist or claim to be agnostic, when Christmas time arrives in the battle zone, all Veterans think of home. When the bullets are buzzing by, all Veterans pray to GOD. So with being said; Merry Christmas to all, Please join me in a prayer, that our brothers and sisters are returned to us safe and soon.

Award Update In the past I’ve attempted to keep you updated on new authorized awards. The information is a compilation from various magazines, articles, publications and reference material. In addition to the approved awards I will attempt to keep you updated on pending legislation and or resolutions submitted by the VFW for proper recognition of your service. Last edition I informed you of the following bill pending in the House would bestow a COLD WAR VICTORY MEDAL on GI’s who served in the Armed Forces between September 2, 1945 and December 26, 1991.

The VFW is officially on record as supporting this bill for veterans who served in any overseas post during this time frame. This bill known as: H.R. #2568, is included as a section of the 2007 Defense authorization bill (H.R.5122).

For some unknown reason, the Pentagon has been fighting against this bill and managed to have it dropped from last year’s authorization bill.

Once again, I am asking that you please call your Congressional Representative and ask him or her to support the bill.

We cannot be successful in our endeavors without assistance from you, the reader.

Veterans Day Nice to see the City and surrounding communities are back to celebrating Veteran’s Day. I guess a little lobbying goes a long way. For those that assisted with the effort, my sincere gratitude. As promised, we hosted our sec-

ond annual Veteran’s Day celebration at the Boston Police VFW Post #1018. It was a terrific success! The master of ceremony was Jorge Castro, (past post commander), Jorge and his committee put on a great show. We were once again honored by quite a few dignitaries, but this year was focused on our Afghani and Iraqi Veterans and their families. We were blessed with a full house. The post has also adopted a local Army Reserve unit the 743rd Transportation Company, which is heading for Iraq in the next couple of months.

Update on Military Deployments As usual the mainstream media would never report anything good, the following is a bit of good news. In 1995 the U.S. Military deployed over 38,000 troops to BosniaHerzegovina. That ongoing action has very rarely been in the news or reported, (probably due to the fact that the troops actually accomplished their mission). I digress, the last of these troops will be withdrawn by the end of December 2006 mission COMPLETE. Sadly we will be leaving approximately 1,600 troops in Kosovo to support the NATO operation. Also, I know you readers are aware of my absolute hatred of our troops serving under a NATO commander, however, the good news is: as of October 5, 2006, the command of military forces in Afghanistan has been turned over to NATO. I can only hope that this means the end is in sight and the pentagon will start an immediate and aggressive withdrawal of the US forces still fighting in this country.

Thanksgiving Dinner On Saturday November 18, the Post was proud to sponsor and host its’ annual Thanksgiving Dinner for the local senior citizens from continued on page A25

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

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Creating positive change where we live is important to everyone. That’s why supporting the Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association is important to us. After all, our community has been important to us for a long, long time. And our commitment still stands. For more information, please visit statestreet.com.

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Veteran’s Corner continued from page A23

Dorchester, Hyde Park, Roslindale and Jamaica Plain. We have been sponsoring this event for the past six years. A special Thank You to George Murray, PC of Post #1018, George was the founding father of this event and he is the driving force behind it. This year we were able to feed approximately 185 seniors. With the help of the Ladies Auxiliary, (a lot of help!!), members of the Post and their families, raise the money to purchase the food, (turkeys, veggies, drinks and desert), and prepare the meals, set up the hall and clean up after. This year we were also assisted by Sgt Detective Isaac Thomas and a few of his cronies from B-3, thanks to all. With the assistance of the City of Boston providing the transportation, we were able to transport these same people to and from their housing. Just one more of ‘those things’ your new Post provides to the community. A job well done by all, also a thank you to the AREA B Community Service Office for caring and being there to assist.

Reminder VFW Post meetings are held on the third Monday of each month in the upper hall at 1930 hours. The E-Board meets at 1800 hours downstairs. The VFW meetings are open to all members, and we encourage active participation. The E-Board conducts its’ annual open meeting on the 2nd Tuesday in July, (per the by-laws). Once again let me offer an invitation to visit the completely remodeled Post, inside and out. Enjoy a cheap, cold ‘one’ with some old friends, or make some new friends. Enjoy the game tables, electronic game machine or lottery. The Post is open seven days a week from 1500 hours ‘til closing around 0200 hours (Patriot game days we open early). If you are behind on your dues, come on down and we’ll work something out. If you are still not a member, what are you waiting for? The membership cost is still only $25.00 per year, as long as you’re paid prior to January 1st. Sadly, the cost of membership is going up. Like everything else in life the bills keep rising and therefore we have to raise the annual dues. Good news is, if you’re thrifty and get down here prior to the new year you can save the increase for a year, or better yet buy a lifetime membership in the VFW now before the price increase.

As always, please Be safe out there!

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

Compliments of Regiment Capital

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Trammel Crow Company Supports the Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association Scholarship Fund and Its Commitment to the Future of Young People.

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Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

Compliments of a Friend

Election Results—December 8, 2006

BPPA Treasurer Daniel Fagan (I) 190 votes Thomas Pratt 290 votes

By-Law Proposal: Yes (in favor) 102 votes No (not in favor) 315 votes 468 members voted and 14 absentee ballots were requested and returned in a timely manner.

ShopUnionMade: We Built It, You Came…

For the third year in a row, conscientious shoppers, label activists and union families proved that the Union Label makes a difference.

Thousands of shoppers and browsers took advantage of “Buy Union Week.” They did their holiday shopping the union way…tried out the new and improved ShopUnionMade.org website and became satisfied customers. Early sales figures and word of mouth reports indicate that advertisers and merchants who display union-made goods and union-provided services enjoy strong support from the buying public. Thanks, and best wishes for joyous holidays and a Happy New Year!

Thank You Very Much, Please Come Again!

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Apple and NAPO have teamed to include you in a special program.

Save up to 17% off Apple and select third-party products.

Request your Government EPP discount with NAPO when calling Apple for discounts on ipods, macbooks, desktop computers, and peripherals.

www.apple.com/eppstore/napo or call 1-800-MY-APPLE

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

Congressional Medal of Honor Society: Boston Convention 2006

By Patrick Rose C-11 The Congressional Medal of Honor Society (CMOH Society) held its annual convention in Boston from September 26, 2006 to October 1, 2006. This is the second time in the past five years that our city played host to these great Americans. Their first visit was marred by the horrific events of 9-11. However, the society was so impressed with the outpouring of comradeship, friendship and genuine interest shown to them by the citizens of Boston and in particular the Hero status bestowed upon them by the City of Boston Police Department and its emissary; (the late), Deputy Superintendent (and Colonel) Edward (Eddie) R. Eagar Jr.. The Congressional Medal of Honor Society is currently comprised of 111 living recipients of our nation’s most prestigious military award for valor, the Congressional Medal of Honor. During the course of their visit to Boston, the Medal of Honor Recipients were honored at a number of public events. Included amongst these events was a welcome reception hosted by Mayor Thomas Menino at the Colonnade Hotel, a reception at the State House hosted by Senate President Travaglini and Speaker of the House DiMasi, an evening of baseball at Fenway Park hosted by the Red Sox, and a reception at Florian Hall, hosted jointly by the Boston Fire, Boston Police and the Emergency Medical Services. A couple of the recipients actually managed to visit “the Shield” (yes it was fumigated prior to their arrival). This is only the second time in the history of the CMOH Society, that the annual convention was held in the same city twice. The last time a city was honored with two visits was in 1958, in Florida. This visit to Boston was indeed a historic event.

During its convention week, the CMOH Society sets aside a day during which a number of Medal of Honor recipients visited local schools, VA Hospitals, Soldiers’ Homes, etc. This year an additional event was scheduled, the CMOH Soci-

ety wanted to visit the Boston Police Officers, Boston Fire Fighters and the Emergency Medical Personnel. This visit was not only to express gratitude to the police department for its assistance during their 2001 visit, but to express their personal thanks to the men and woman of all three departments for their day to day dedicated service to the public. On Thursday, September 28, 2006 at 10:00 AM, we had the honor of welcoming the Congressional Medal of Honor Society to Florian Hall.

Thirteen of these genuine Heroes, along with their companions, were transported from the Colonnade Hotel in Boston to Florian Hall on Boston Fire apparatus, escorted through the streets of Boston by an impressive display from The Boston Police Motorcycle unit, with the assistance of the State Police and various cities and towns.

They arrived in Dorchester with the Boston Police Department Gaelic Column proudly leading the way! The streets were lined by Uniformed Officers from the Boston Police, Boston Fire and Boston EMS. Standing tall in dress uniform these men and woman representing the City of Boston proudly rendered a salute to America’s Heroes as they arrived at Florian Hall.

The Honorees were waving frantically at us, the troops, actually yelling out to praise us. These brave men were actually praising us; Cops, Firefighters and EMS personnel for our day-to-day efforts.

These heroes were more interested in what we did and how we performed our day to day tasks, than to discuss their own brave deeds that earned them the Nations highest award for valor. This was just about the most humbling experience I have ever had in my life. This event was cosponsored and hosted by Boston Fire Fighters Local 718 IAFF, and was a joint Boston Fire / Boston Police and EMS venture. Members and their guests, of all three organizations had the opportunity to hear from and speak to Medal of Honor Recipients and to personally meet and greet them. Police, Fire and EMS

personnel were in awe listening to these great heroes.

Some of the families that were in attendance were the first to ask questions during question and answer session, which opened the flood gates to many other questions from attendees. One of our EMS personnel managed to get his son a letter from the president of the Medal of Honor Society, asking the young mans teacher to excuse his absence from school that day. It was amazing to talk to these Heroes and listen to their speeches concerning earning the Medal of Honor. One thing rang true with all and was consistent throughout all of their stories, not a single one of these fine men ever took an action believing it would benefit them, but only

took action to save another life or many lives. All agreed their actions were out of their love for their own comrades than out of hatred of their enemies. Some of these gentlemen had a great sense of humor and it was refreshing to hear people speak, plain and true without the threat of reprisal or fear of being politically incorrect. These men represent an era in our history that we are losing fast, and era when people would seek responsibility and took responsibility for their actions, an era when people believed it was every mans duty to step up and give something back to the great country, an era where people didn’t ask “what’s in it for me?” before taking action or performing a

deed. Their visit was a breath of fresh air. In a time when the tide is once again turning against our brothers and sisters in uniform it was wonderful to join in celebration of our Nations military heroes. I could write volumes concerning the Congressional Medal of Honor, but I’d rather you look up the web site and have a good read for yourself. Not only will you learn about the history of the Medal, you will be able to read the actual citations for each of these great men’s award. If you missed it, I’m sorry to say these great men will most like never return to Boston as a group, however you will learn all you want to know, simply by logging on the Congressional Medal of Honor Society web site; www.cmoh.org.

Directions for new recruits; Why it’s always “straight ahead”

By Pax Editor Jim Carnell

Dear new BPD recruit officer, By now, in a matter of a few short weeks, you have already been asked at least 5,678 times directions to places you have absolutely no idea where they are. Don’t feel bad if you don’t know; none of us do. John Q. Public, simply by virtue of the fact that you’re wearing a uniform, automatically assumes that you must know directions to every location, regardless of how obscure the description and location of what it is they’re looking for.

Doesn’t matter—you—the cop are supposed to “know everything”…

Recently, a friend of mine who was lost in Boston and was under the impression that Boston Cops are supposed to know directions to everywhere in under two-seconds flat while he’s rolling by in his Lexus at 35 MPH, criticized the directions given to him by a BPD officer as “inadequate and unprofessional”. But while working a detail with N-Star at 2 Avery St. (at the Loew’s Movie theatre near the intersection with Mason St.), I was asked by a motorist how to get to “185 Franklin St.” (The old New

England Telephone building).

The building itself was virtually within sight. Using directions which I later confirmed as accurate with the website “Mapquest”, I informed the driver as follows: 1. Take next left onto Washington St. 2. Take next right onto Avenue De Lafayette 3. Take next right onto Harrison Ave. Extension 4. Take next left onto Essex St. 5. Take next left onto Chauncy St. 6. Continue straight on Chauncy St, cross Summer St. 7. Chauncy St. now turns into Arch St. Continue straight on Arch St., cross Franklin St. and continue straight to Milk St. 8. Take a right on Milk St. 9. Continue straight on Milk St. through Post Office Sq., cross Congress St., cross Pearl St. 10. Take a right on Oliver St. 11. Take a right onto Franklin St. to #185.

Clearly, by now, new recruit officer, you have thoroughly confused the person asking directions, providing you knew these directions in the first place yourself. Almost anyplace in downtown Boston, regardless of the fact that the desired location is within visible sight of where the direction-seeker is searching, is impossible to describe to someone in less than five or more turns, lefts, rights, etc. etc. You have probably also backed up traffic into Timbuktu because the person asking directions has handed you a piece of paper and a pencil and asked you to right the directions down, which has caused further backup because there are six or seven people in line behind that nitwit who also have no idea where they are or where they are going and expect you, the new recruit officer, to tell them complicated, downtown Boston directions in 2.3 seconds as they roll by in their Lexus…

And you wonder why I, the experienced veteran, simply point and tell people “straight ahead” in pig-Latin?

Ah, youth is wasted on the young…

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“Joe the Boss Goes West�

Recently I had the opportunity to visit Las Vegas. I hadn’t been there in several years and had forgotten what a spectacular city it had become. They are still putting up new hotels, bigger and better that the previous ones. My crew and I tried our best to visit them all. We almost made them all but fatigue and time wore us out. With all due respect to New York (the city that never sleeps) this is truly the city that never sleeps. That phrase sounded vaguely familiar and then it dawned on me that some crooner sang about that.

Oh well the name will come to me later.

This also happened to be Breeders Cup weekend (what a coincidence). So you can see what a busy weekend this shaped up to be, what with college football, pro football, horse racing and the rest of the Vegas games of chance. There didn’t seem to be enough hours in the day to get everything done. Throw in eating and sleeping and there didn’t really seem enough time. What we need out there are more hours in the day. Las Vegas tries to make it a longer day, what with no windows, no clocks and blasts of cold air every so often to keep you awake. In spite of the odds against you everyone in our party seemed to hold their own. I mean no one got trounced and some even ended up in the plus column.

Some things have changed with the advent of the new Las Vegas. The flight and rooms were reasonable but the shows, eating and drinking were up there. While you’re gambling the drinks are on the house but afterwards at the lounges and bars the drinks get pricey, but you’re out there so no one cares. Most of my crew didn’t bother to get a comp card which records your action and earns credits towards meals and shows. So I would advise anyone venturing out west to get a card right after they check in. As I said before each hotel is better than the last one. So as you wander around and test your luck be very careful. Remember, they don’t build these gorgeous places on the backs of winners. Get my drift.

Now remember the Las Vegas slogan which is win, win, win. “Gotcha� you thought it was gonna be the other thing.

Joe the Boss remembers Frank Oh, by the way, I remembered the name of that singer. Some brash, young, full-of-himself named “Frankie Boy�.

Then he became “The Voice�, “The Chairman of the Board�, “Ol Blue Eyes� and then “Francis Albert Sinatra.�

You must be wondering how the heck I got from Las Vegas to Frank Sinatra. Well through my weird way of thinking, I was in Las Vegas and Sinatra was a big part of Vegas way back when, plus his birthday is De-

cember 15th. I guess there is a connection there, but only if you think like me. You’ve probably guessed by now that I’m a huge Sinatra fan.

I go way back when Frank was the young boy singer first with the Harry James Band, then with Tommy Dorsey. In the early forties he branched out on his own and the rest, as they say, is history. I especially prefer the young Sinatra crooning the love songs and a few upbeat tunes. He had good range and a melodious sound plus you could understand all the words. He kind of led the way for the singers to take the lead away from the band. He was out front instead of coming off the bench. In the early days there was a large number of singers who emerged. You had the Perry’s, Nat’s, Billy’s (Mr. Billy Eckstein).

Frank led the way and pushed the singers to the forefront. There were many great girl singers around. Such as Sarah, Ella, Judy, Helen, Billie and many more. It was a great period and a great sound. There wasn’t a need for any gimmicks, just a microphone and an audience. Small clubs and venues thrived. I recalled seeing many of those artists in small clubs and theaters. After a while things changed and another type of music emerged.

Those small clubs closed and huge concerts emerged with all the lighting and fanfare. You could attend these huge shows in stadiums and not see the performers. You would have to watch them on TV’s around the ballparks. The intimacy was lost, there was no closeness. You couldn’t see the feeling and intensity that the artists were feeling. Through all this Frank and the above artists stayed the course and lasted right to their end.

Frank had many ups and downs (so many they were calling him canvas back – sorry Frank but I know you have a sense of humor) but he kept getting up, dusted himself off and got back in the fight. Sounds like another song title. Bing Crosby (another fair singer) once said “a Frank Sinatra comes along once in a lifetime, why does it have to be in mine.� Many other artists thanked Frank for leading the charge and opening doors. I for one would like to throw my two cents in and thank Frank for the many years of good music. He performed in seven decades and did it his way.

Probably when this article comes out I will have attended a Christmas party on his birthday, December 15th, and I along with some of my friends, will toast a few in his honor. I’m sure he’ll appreciate that. So long and thanks for the memories.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year Joe the Boss

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006

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