Cleveland Area Fire Fighters Will Rally to "Vote No on Issue 2" at Browns Game on October 23, 2011

Fire Fighters Urge Fans to Protect the Protectors

CLEVELAND, Oct. 21, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Fire fighters from across Northeast Ohio will convene before the Browns game on October 23, 2011 to urge citizens to vote no on Issue 2 to repeal SB 5.

Members of the fire departments, along with John "Big Dawg" Thompson, will canvass parking lots and tailgate gatherings to encourage support. A press conference and rally will follow in front of the Cleveland Firefighters Memorial, located just east of the Cleveland Browns Stadium at 12:30 p.m.  

John "Big Dawg" Thompson knows how important this issue is for safety forces. Cleveland's most famous fan has decided to come out of retirement, donning his famous mask to join the cheers of "NO on 2!"

"Issue 2 goes too far," said Thompson. "I have two cousins who are lieutenants on the Cleveland Fire Department and they will be removed from their union. That's not fair."

Local 93 president Tom Lally sees a more basic flaw in the 305-page bill.

"This is a safety issue for citizens and fire fighters, plain and simple," said Lally. "Issue 2 makes it illegal for us to negotiate for enough fire fighters to do the job. We are concerned that politicians are risking the safety of citizens and fire fighters and for political gain."

Lally sees Sunday as an opportunity to inform the public and encourage voters' support.

"Cleveland fire fighters have endured numerous sacrifices during this current economic climate," said Lally, citing layoffs, company closures and a 100% increase in healthcare contribution. "Despite deep cuts and challenges, Cleveland fire fighters remain ready to help. We hope that on November 8th, the citizens will help us by voting No on Issue 2 to repeal SB 5."

About IAFF Local 93

The International Association of Fire Fighters, headquartered in Washington, D.C., is the leading advocate in North America for the safety and training of firefighters and paramedics. The IAFF Local 93 represents nearly 800 full-time professional firefighters and paramedics who protect the City of Cleveland.  Local 93 provides many important services including: fire protection, hazardous materials response and rescue services ranging from basic and advanced life support medical care, high-angle incidents downtown, water rescues on the lake or rivers and extrications from motor vehicle accidents.  More information is available at www.iafflocal93.org

SOURCE Cleveland Firefighters Association, Local 93