Thank you to all the members who attended the Annual IAFF Local 244 Christmas Party on the 14^th of December; this year was a great success with just under three hundred guests in attendance to honor the IAFF Local 244 Executive Board selections for the 2012 Outstanding Leadership and Firefighter of the Year Awards. Special thanks to President, Sam Trujillo and the AFD Retirees’ Association for providing safe rides home.

Bryan Pacheco received the Outstanding Leadership Award for his commitment and dedication towards helping a fellow union brother in his time of great need. Brother Pacheco tirelessly worked to successfully reach a fundraising goal in sending Brother Gil Pohl and his children to Disneyland. He also raised awareness about our Firefighter Survivors Fund among our membership and the community.

Kerry Horton received the City Chapter Firefighter of the Year Award based on his model leadership skills, as both a Commander and Executive Board member; serving on multiple committees and the negotiating team. Brother Horton willingly takes on challenges and has worked diligently to serve his fellow union members and their families.

Tim O’Brien received the County Chapter Firefighter of the Year Award for being an invaluable asset to negotiations with his hard work and dedication on the budgetary guidelines committee. Brother O’Brien volunteered a great amount of time compiling data, researching all funding sources and meeting with elected officials.

Happy Holidays!