Pickler’s ‘Hit Mail’ Misses the Mark

I’m an Anaheim Fire Department captain/paramedic. I have just read a campaign flyer from Irv Pickler attacking our Fire Department. This “hit mail” has a trick-or-treat theme to it and is nothing more than a below-the-belt hit by Pickler.

After reading the flyer from Pickler, I felt I needed to send this message to the residents of Anaheim: I love my work. My father, a retired Long Beach firefighter, was proud that I too chose the fire service. He told me, “Son, you’ll never get rich, but there will be many other rewards besides the pay.”

He was right. There are many other rewards, but I still must provide for my family. Pickler quoted yearly wages earned by firefighters. We don’t even come close to those figures. In contract requests, we are asking for pay equal to that at other fire agencies. This is not an unfair request.

I support Fred Hunter and Bob Simpson because they have proven to me to be dedicated individuals. Dedicated to the positive direction of this city. So, after a busy night, I will coach my youngest son and his soccer team, then coach my oldest son and his football team, and still find the time and energy to be with my wife and little girl.

I will then leave to walk precincts for Fred Hunter and Bob Simpson. When we win, it will make me feel proud that city leaders support us. It motivates me to work even harder for the community of Anaheim.

BRUCE JACOBSON, Dana Point