this was wriiten on 7/11/01 , it should be noted because bad and begative press hurts us all.Naples Daily News, 7/11/01
Island Voices
Wednesday, July 11, 2001
Burning over union
I believe the International Association of Fire Fighters is unsurpassed as a propaganda and public relations organization.
This union's functions include acquisition and expansion of politi cal control at state, and national levels, assisting local unions in acquisition and control at local levels, securing the best possible contract terms for the local union and creating and perpetuating the "firefighter" image as a super hero engaged in fearless deeds of valor with selfless dedication to service. A white knight straight from Camelot.
We are continually barraged by the media with fearsome sights of flaming horror, firemen in full regalia, huge fire trucks or helicopters, ladders and spewing hoses, and all presented as though it was in our own backyard.
Another scene portrays a fireman beside a hook and ladder fire truck, answering questions with the wisdom of Solomon, intellect of Einstein, and capabilities of Superman. Dozens of other situations pursue this same theme, ad infinitum.
Sometimes show business would gag a goat.
These stylized programs are not coincidental. They are marketed by aggressive and highly- experienced publicity personnel.
They can and do exploit every conceivable aspect and nuance of psychological persuasion and conditioning to create the desired image. This brainwashing continues until its victims see only the projected tableau, and never the perverse or unpalatable truths that my lurk below the surface.
Unfortunately, the simple facts are that no IQ, educational, or psychological standards must be met to become a fireman. In 12 weeks, any ordinary person who is reasonably strong and healthy, can become a fully-trained, certified, and effective Florida State fireman. This job requires nothing more.
Charles Slagle, Marco Island
feel free to write to the editor of this newspaper and complain or even track this slime down and give him a piece of your mind.
nullCharles Slagle, Marco Island
Island Voices
Wednesday, July 11, 2001
Burning over union
I believe the International Association of Fire Fighters is unsurpassed as a propaganda and public relations organization.
This union's functions include acquisition and expansion of politi cal control at state, and national levels, assisting local unions in acquisition and control at local levels, securing the best possible contract terms for the local union and creating and perpetuating the "firefighter" image as a super hero engaged in fearless deeds of valor with selfless dedication to service. A white knight straight from Camelot.
We are continually barraged by the media with fearsome sights of flaming horror, firemen in full regalia, huge fire trucks or helicopters, ladders and spewing hoses, and all presented as though it was in our own backyard.
Another scene portrays a fireman beside a hook and ladder fire truck, answering questions with the wisdom of Solomon, intellect of Einstein, and capabilities of Superman. Dozens of other situations pursue this same theme, ad infinitum.
Sometimes show business would gag a goat.
These stylized programs are not coincidental. They are marketed by aggressive and highly- experienced publicity personnel.
They can and do exploit every conceivable aspect and nuance of psychological persuasion and conditioning to create the desired image. This brainwashing continues until its victims see only the projected tableau, and never the perverse or unpalatable truths that my lurk below the surface.
Unfortunately, the simple facts are that no IQ, educational, or psychological standards must be met to become a fireman. In 12 weeks, any ordinary person who is reasonably strong and healthy, can become a fully-trained, certified, and effective Florida State fireman. This job requires nothing more.
Charles Slagle, Marco Island
feel free to write to the editor of this newspaper and complain or even track this slime down and give him a piece of your mind.
nullCharles Slagle, Marco Island
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