• December 04, 2023

    Columbia Southern University is pleased to have Professional Firefighters Association of Mississippi as a Learning Partner. As a member, this partnership provides a reduced tuition, plus many additional benefits. And, for your convenience, all programs are offered in an online format.

    The Learning Partner Program provides exclusive benefits to the employees/members of your organization, as well as all spouses and children. Benefits of the partnership include:

    • 10% tuition discount on all classes and waiver of the Application Fee.
    • Textbooks provided at no cost.
    • Exclusive Scholarship Opportunities for Learning Partner employees/members. Click here for more information.
    • A complimentary evaluation of previously earned college credits and training/professional certifications for consideration of transfer credit.
    • Complimentary access to our Writing and Math specialists through the Student Success Center.
    • A dedicated landing page for Learning Partners on the CSU website for prospective students and student enrollments.

    About CSU

    Columbia Southern University is a completely online university offering associate, bachelor and master degree programs in a wide variety of disciplines. For program information please contact Natasha Willett at Natasha.Willett@ColumbiaSouthern.edu.

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    • What's New at PROFAM

      Please Watch Your Mail Box for Your Ballot - Complete and Return or Use the Instructions to Vote On-Line.

      We encourage retirees to vote and share the information provided.  Make your choice for the person you believe will best serve the interests of current and future retirees. 

      Ballots for the retiree representative to the PERS Board of Trustees will be mailed out on March 17, 2023.  The deadline for receipt of ballots is April 21, 2023.

      The candidates for RETIREE REPRESENTATIVE are Bonnie Granger and George Dale.  

      Having retired members on the PERS Board that support maintaining existing benefits of PERS for current and future retirees is critically essential.  


      MRPEA is providing Candidate Qualifications, Candidate Surveys, and historical information about the recent vote of the PERS Board to increase employer contribute rates:  

      Bonnie J. Granter (Ocean Springs)

      -Loyola University School of Law, Juris Doctorate
      -
      The University of Southern Mississippi, master's
      -
      Hattiesburg Public School District, chief financial officer
      -
      Certified Public Accountant
      -
      Attorney, Mississippi, and Louisiana

      I have vast knowledge and experience in government finance.  My career began with the State Auditor's Office and transitioned into public school district finance, where I served three districts as Finance Director.  I received my Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Accounting from the University of Southern Mississippi and my law degree from Loyola University.  I am a licensed CPA and an attorney in Mississippi.  My experience gives me an unparalleled advantage in understanding the PERS system.  I strongly support maintaining both the health and member benefits of the PERS system for current and future retirees.  Thank you for your support.  

      George R. Dale (Clinton)

      -Mississippi College, master's
      -
      Mississippi Department of Insurance, commissioner
      -
      Moss Point High School:  teacher, coach, and principal 
      -
      Administrative Assistant to Governor Bill Waller

      I am completing my first term as a member of the PERS Board.  It has been an honor to serve.  During my term, I have not missed a board meeting.  When I started on the PERS Board, we had a cash reserve of approximately 26.5 billion dollars.  That amount has increased to around 36 billion dollars.  This board has been very conservative with your retirement funds.  I have championed the idea that retired teachers collect their pension but be allowed to work under contract with the public school system.  I would appreciate your vote.  


      Recent vote of the PERS Board to increase employer contribution rates: At its meeting on December 20, 2022, the PERS Board, based on recommendations of the system’s actuaries and staff, voted to increase employer contributions to make PERS benefits sustainable now and into the future. An excerpt from the PERS Board Meeting Minutes that includes the vote of each member is below for your review.

      _____________

      Minutes | Board of Trustees

      Public Employees’ Retirement System of Mississippi

      December 20, 2022 | PERS Board Room

      Page 4

      Motion: To increase the Public Employees’ Retirement System of Mississippi employer contribution rate from 17.4 percent to 22.4 percent as of October 1, 2023.

      ·       Made by: McCoy.

      ·       Seconded by: Hanna.

      ·       Discussion: None.

      ·       Voting for: Benson, Breland, Hanna, Howard, McCoy, Rutledge, and Smith.

      ·       Voting against: Dale, Graham, and McRae.

      ·       Absent: None.

      ·       Duly Passed

      Candidate Surveys:

      Questions

      George Dale’s Answer

      Bonnie Granger’s Answer

      Do you philosophically support defined benefit plans vs. converting to a 401-K plan?

      Yes

      Yes

      If elected, will you support the State maintaining the current retirement system benefits including the Cost-of-Living-Adjustment (COLA)?

      Yes, unless necessary to save the plan

      Yes

      Do you believe that benefits should ever be reduced for:

           Existing Retirees?

      No

      No

           Current Retirees?

      No

      No

           Future Retirees?

      No

      No, unless no other option

      Do you support adjusting employer contribution rates in accordance with the recommendations of the actuary and state law should that become necessary in the future to maintain the current solvency of the system?

      Yes. While actuary recommendation is important, there are many factors to consider.

      Yes

      VOTE "NO" TO HOUSE BILL 605

      Call your Mississippi House of Representatives NOW!  Vote "No" on House Bill 605

      If voted into law, this bill would allow the legislature to have veto power over the PERS Board.  It would greatly hinder the PERS Board's ability to make fiscally responsible decisions for the system and allow the legislature to tie the Board's hands when making contribution increases. 

      This bill affects ACTIVE members just as much as it would retired members!  

      We cannot overstate how dangerous this would be for the health of the PERS retirement system.  We ask you to call your legislators and let them know that, as a PERS member, you do NOT support this bill!  

      NOTE:  The legislature already has representation on the PERS Board and this member is present when votes occur.  The Legislature is completely aware of any decisions made in PERS Meetings!

      Please share this with your friends and neighbors and encourage them to call as well!  

      Link to the Mississippi House Roster:   http://www.legislature.ms.gov/legislators/house-roster/

      Link to Mississippi House Bill 605: https://legiscan.com/MS/bill/HB605/2023

      Paused
      PROFAM Legislative Meeting 2018
      Members are listening to Executive Director Pat Robertson from PERS
      PROFAM Legislative Meeting 2018
      Members met with House Representative Jeff Hale from District 24 on the final day of the PROFAM Legislative Meeting
      President Bass - Habitat for Humanities Build
      In September, President Bass assisted the Jackson Habitat for Humanities with a home in the downtown Jackson area.
      Laurel Fire Department Receives New Charter
      Welcome IAFF Local 207!
      Ridgeland FD wins 2015 Dragon Regatta
      Congratulationts to Ridgeland FD - first place for overall fastest time and t-shirt design
      Kris Carmichael plays "Amazing Grace" on the pipes at 9/11 Services at the State Cathedral
      9/11 Memorial Service at St. Andrews Episcopal Cathedral
      RSS Feed icon
      Current news directly from IAFF locals, councils, and state/province associations in the US and Canada.

      Homeless For The Holidays
      12/01/23 - IAFF Local 2519
      Members of Local 2519 will be partaking in the annual "Homeless For The Holidays" fundraiser. Members will be at the Mashpee Rotary daily from 8 am to 8 pm, starting on December 6th and concluding on December 10th.
      December Meeting Notice
      11/30/23 - IAFF Local 42
      Goshen L4752 CBA 2023-2026
      11/29/23 - PPFFA
      The 2023-2026 CBA for Goshen L4752 is now in the contract area of the website.
      Easton's CBA 2021-2024
      11/29/23 - PPFFA
      The 2021-2024 CBA for Easton Local 713 has been added to the contract area of the website.
      IAFF Center of Excellent: Upcoming Webinars
      11/29/23 - UPFFA
      The IAFF Center of Excellence is hosting an online education series with topics for first responders, health care providers, clinicians and the community at large. Please see below for our upcoming events and feel free to share with your colleagues, friends and clients.
      Our Deepest Sympathies
      11/29/23 - International Association of Firefighters
      Local F-147 Regrets to announce the passing of William A. Mego Jr, father of retired Assistant Chief and former Local F-147 President Billy Mego. Please keep Billy and his family in your prayers! William A. Mego, Jr., 88, of Howell Township passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Wednesday, November 15, 2023, at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Neptune.
      2024 PFFA Convention
      11/29/23 - PFFA
      2023 Local S-6 Family Christmas Party
      11/29/23 - IAFF Local S-6
      Membership & Retirees, Our annual Local S-6 family Christmas party is fast approaching. Sign-up sheets have been posted at each fire station for attendees and their children. An accurate headcount is needed to know what to purchase for each kiddo. There's still time to get on the list.
      2023 Firefighter of the Year Awards- Medal of Valor
      11/28/23 - Holbrook Firefighters Local 1452, IAFF
            5 members of the Holbrook Fire Department were awarded the Medal of Valor at the 34th Annual Firefighter of the Year awards ceremony, held at Mechanics Hall in Worcester on November 21, 2023.
      Victory for Missouri Workers' Compensation
      11/28/23 - Missouri State Council of Fire Fighters
      Last week, the IAFF won a major victory before the Missouri Supreme Court. 2nd District Vice President Mark Woolbright contacted me about a very troubling workers' compensation decision by a Missouri Court of Appeals.
      Friday Update 11-17-23
      11/28/23 - IAFF Local 1014
      Friday Update 11-10-23
      11/28/23 - IAFF Local 1014
      E-Bike Fundraising Raffle
      11/27/23 - Hamden Professional Firefighters
      LOCAL 2687 CHARITY RAFFLE Help us support the Keefe Center and Hamden Community Services by purchasing a raffle ticket! You can also make an additional donation should you so choose. All proceeds will benefit the Hamden Professional Firefighters charitable account and will be used to sponsor Hamden families in need this holiday season. Thank you for your continued support.
      2023 Salvation Army Bell Ringing Season Is Here
      11/26/23 - IAFF Local 21
      Salvation Army bell ringing begins on November 12th and goes through December 2023.
      2024 TPFFA Legislatve Conference
      11/26/23 - Tennessee Professional Fire Fighters Association
      The 2024 TPFFA Frank D. Stephens Legislative Conference will be held February 26-28, 2024, at the Hilton Downtown in Nashville.  In accordance with TPFFA Policy, the TPFFA shall provide one room for each TPFFA Local for the first and second night of the annual Frank D Stephens Legislative Conference.
      ENDICOTT, N.Y.PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS I.A.F.F. LOCAL 1280 "GIVE CANCER THE BOOT"
      11/26/23 - Lets Fire Cancer
      On Friday November 24, 2023 (BLACK FRIDAY) members of the Endicott, N.Y. Professional Fire Fighters I.A.F.F. Local 1280 once again repurposed their boots for CANCER RESEARCH. Members passed their boots at two different busy intersections in Endicott accepting donations from generous passing motorists. 100% of funds will go directly to world class Cancer Research.
      Toy drive
      11/25/23 - IAFF 323
      http://www.bbyservices.
      Toy drive
      11/25/23 - IAFF 323
      23rd Peter S. Carozza UPFFA Biennial Convention Photos
      11/25/23 - UPFFA
      23rd Peter S.
      Lowell St. Fire
      11/24/23 - IAFF Local 1314
      Third floor fire on Thanskgiving leaves residents displaced.
      Fort Wayne Professional Firefighters Good & Welfare
      11/24/23 - Fort Wayne Professional Firefighters
      @media only screen and (max-width: 730px){ .pdfview{height:500px .
      Dec 5th or 6th, 2023 | IAFF Local 21 Election
      11/23/23 - IAFF Local 21
      LODD Notice: John Parison, III
      11/21/23 - Missouri State Council of Fire Fighters
      Funeral Notice: John Parison KCFD Fire Captain John “JP” Parison, III, 48, father of KCFD Firefighter/EMT, John Parison, IV, passed away on Friday, November 17, 2023, after a short battle with occupational cancer. Visitation will be held on Friday, November 24, 2023, from 9:00 AM till 11:00 AM at the Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church, located at 8640 Sni-A-Bar Rd.
      LODD Notice: John Parison, III
      11/21/23 - IAFF Local 42
      Funeral Notice: John Parison KCFD Fire Captain John “JP” Parison, III, 48, father of KCFD Firefighter/EMT, John Parison, IV, passed away on Friday, November 17, 2023, after a short battle with occupational cancer. Visitation will be held on Friday, November 24, 2023, from 9:00 AM till 11:00 AM at the Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church, located at 8640 Sni-A-Bar Rd.
      County Negotiations Input Meetings
      11/21/23 - Albuquerque Area Fire Fighters
      Dear Members of IAFF Local 244, As we embark upon the journey of preparing for our future negotiations, we invite each one of you to actively contribute to the shaping of our collective path. The upcoming negotiations in 2024 for our next Collective Bargaining Agreement with Bernalillo County mark a critical juncture, and your insights are invaluable.
      SAVE THE DATE: GROUP 2/4 CHRISTMAS PARTY
      11/20/23 - Cambridge Fire Fighters
      REMINDER: Emergency Labor/Admin Meeting and November Regular Meeting
      11/18/23 - IAFF Local 4045
      Good morning, Brothers and Sisters of Local 4045.  I hope the last week has been rewarding for everyone and that this weekend will be just as fruitful. A quick reminder, we have two meetings this upcoming week. On Monday, Chief Riley has called an Emergency Labor/Admin meeting, which will be @ 11:00 in the conference room of the Hayden Station.
      Syracuse, N.Y. Corvette Club Makes Generous Donation!
      11/18/23 - Lets Fire Cancer
      We are pleased to announce that the members of the Syracuse, N.Y. Corvette Club recently made a VERY generous donation to The Retired Professional Fire Fighters Cancer Fund. 100% of this donation will be part of our next established, promising, world class CANCER RESEARCH donation.
      November 13, 2023: UPFFA Endorsement of IAFF Candidates
      11/16/23 - UPFFA
      We are pleased to announce that the delegates assembled at the 23rd Peter S. Carozza UPFFA Biennial Convention held on November 13, 2023, at Foxwoods unanimously endorsed the following candidates for re-election at the 57th IAFF Biennial Convention in Boston, Massachusetts, August 2024: Edward A. Kelly, General President, IAFF Frank V.
      2023 Local 42 Election Results
      11/15/23 - IAFF Local 42
      The Elections Committee of IAFF Local 42 has certified the following election results as of Wednesday, November 15, 2023.
      Captain/EMS Coordinator Bob Pitts is Retiring
      11/15/23 - IAFF Local 21
      12.02.2023 | Mauer GMC Toys For Tots Bike Build Event
      11/14/23 - IAFF Local 21
      IAFF Motorcycle Group
      11/14/23 - PFFA
            Sisters and Brothers, My name is Ed Jaros and I am your IAFF Motorcycle Group 14th District Committee Member. I have been a member of the IAFF MG since 2007 and have served on the International Committee since 2012.
      Local 21 Regrets to Announce the Passing of Retired Firefighter Thurman Smith
      11/13/23 - IAFF Local 21
      2023 Veterans Day
      11/10/23 - IAFF Local 21
      Saint Paul Firefighters IAFF Local 21 would like to recognize and thank all of our Veterans for their service to ensure our safety, security and freedom.  Please take a moment today to reflect on the dedication and sacrifice of all of our Veterans. To our Members, those who await the safe return of a child, spouse, friend, family member, neighbor, colleague, we support you.
      Union Meeting - Saturday 11th November 2023
      11/10/23 - IAFF Local S-6
      Local S-6 Membership, Please note there is a union meeting tomorrow, Saturday 11th November 2023, training room at Fire Station One @ 0745 sharp. B-Shift will be going off duty and A-Shift will be coming on duty. It's YOUR union... be involved!!! Additionally, tomorrow's meeting will see the election of the Vice President and Secretary positions. Next month's union meeting.
      Fire Captains Cunningham and Monson are Retiring
      11/09/23 - IAFF Local 21
      Download Our App!
      11/08/23 - IAFF Local 3010
      Friday Update 11-3-23
      11/08/23 - IAFF Local 1014
      Friday Update 10-27-23
      11/08/23 - IAFF Local 1014
      Friday Update 10-20-23
      11/08/23 - IAFF Local 1014
      Special Meeting for Approval of County Chapter Sick Leave MOU
      11/08/23 - Albuquerque Area Fire Fighters
      County Chapter MOU for ‘Sick Leave’ to be presented for membership approval at Special Meeting on Thursday, November 16, 2023 at 1:00pm at the Union Hall.
      2023 Operation Warm Coat Distribution
      11/08/23 - IAFF Local 21
      EXPANDING CANCER COVERAGE
      11/08/23 - OPFFA
      Ontario is improving cancer coverage for firefighters by lowering the duration of employment needed to receive presumed (automatic) compensation prior to diagnosis with esophageal cancer from 25 to 15 years. This means a firefighter with 24 years of service would no longer have to contest that their esophageal cancer was work-related, giving them faster access to WSIB benefits and other critical services.
      Columbia Sportswear Employee Store Invite
      11/07/23 - SFFF Local 798
      Columbia Employee Store Invitation Details: November 17th - December 10th  SF Fire Department & Department of Emergency Management offer is valid November 17th - December 10th  Store is stocked with current season products from our family of brands – Columbia, Mountain Hardwear, SOREL and prAna – items are marked with Employee Store Pricing.
      Annual Christmas Party Tickets Available
      11/06/23 - Albuquerque Area Fire Fighters
      IAFF Local 244 Christmas Party 2023 We will celebrate Christmas and honor our members for Fire Fighter of the Year (City & County), Outstanding Leadership & Rookie of the Year (members w/ 1-3 years of service) on Friday, December 15, 2023, at Sandia Resort & Casino with cocktail hour at 6:00pm and dinner at 7:00pm.
      CPFF Delegation Endorses Ed Kelly, Frank Lima and Mike Frainier
      11/06/23 - Colorado Professional Fire Fighters
      @media only screen and (max-width: 730px){ .pdfview{height:500px .
      It was nearly 100 degrees outside when the emergency call reached Engine Company 39. A triple-decker in Savin Hill had erupted in flames, and a haze of thick black smoke was all but blanketing the sky.
      Read More...

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