This is an annual meeting honoring the members of the Windsor Police Department and the Windsor Fire Protection District
John LeCave opened the meeting and we started with the pledge of allegiance.
Inspiration – Sandee Krutz
Song: Allen Christenson – ‘You are my Sunshine’
Visiting Rotarians – None
Visitors – Exchange Student Ella, Janet Hyde, Remy Mones
Visitors – Introductions were made of the staff in attendance from the Windsor Police Department and the Windsor Fire Protection District
Tom Boylan & John Hackenburg updated the club on the upcoming Lobster Feed. Tom Hassur then gave some last minute details and requests.
Craig Curreri – provided comments regarding the gratitude and appreciation the residents and members of the Rotary Club of Windsor have for the Windsor Police Department and the Windsor Fire Protection District and thanked the police and fire professionals for the service they provide to the citizens in our community.
Fire Protection Chief – Jack Piccinini provided an update on the Windsor Fire Protection District and commented on how well things were working following the combination of the Rincon Valley and Windsor fire districts. Chief Piccinini noted that current call volume totals around 4,000 calls per year. As an example, he noted that the other day Windsor Fire responded to over 20 calls in a 24 hour period. The chief commended his staff for the quality of care provided and the ability of the fire department to quickly respond to traffic incidents. The chief also noted that both Rincon Valley and Windsor Fire Districts are responding to all traffic incidents in the area including highway 101.
Chief Piccinini also commended the staff for their willingness to help out in other areas throughout California and their ability to assist other local fire incidents
The Chief then stated that the department has a boat and that as a result of the flooding this past year, they were called to assist residents who were affected by flooding.
The Chief expressed his gratitude to the many volunteers who give of their time to help the fire protection district.
He then stated that on May 24 the community may be hearing a lot of sirens. This will all be a result of fire professionals parading through the community raising funds for the Alisa Ann Ruch Burn Foundation. This also known as the North Bay Run Relay and is an annual procession of firefighters from around the counties of Marina and Sonoma where the fire professionals go around working to raise funds for youth you are affected by burn injuries.
The Chief introduced their honoree Jack Valaquette as the District’s Service Above Self Honoree for the Windsor and Rincon Valley Fire Protection District. Jack is in the Explorer Program and has a vision impairment which prevents him from pursuing a career in fire protection. However, Jack has a great passion for helping in fire protection and fire safety. The Chief commended Jack for the many hours he has spent helping the fire department and the community.
Following Chief Piccinini’s comments, Craig Curreri took a few moments to talk about the sacrifices made by members of the families of the police and fire professionals. He then thanked and recognized each of the family members of former police chief Chris Spallino.
Windsor Police Chief Carlos Basurto then took some time recognizing the efforts of the local law enforcement professionals. The Chief thanked the community for supporting him during his first year of service as Chief.
The Chief provided an update as to things which are going on in the Windsor Police Department and the local Windsor area. The Chief reported that property crimes are at a 10 year low during the past quarter and he also reported on other declines in criminal activity in the area.
The Chief then commented on the department’s 2017 Service Above Self nominee Chris Spallino. Chief Piccinini thanked Chris for the service he provided to the citizens of Windsor and the police department during his six years as Chief prior to retiring from the police department. Chief Piccinini commended Chris for his example of service and leadership noting his involvement in many community activities including serving as a coach for the Windsor Junior Varsity football team.
Craig Curreri than wrapped up the presentations with some closing thoughts and appreciation of all of the public safety officers and family members who were present.
John LeCave closed the meeting and rang the Rotary bell.
Next week’s Rotary Program will be from Mike and Maureen Merrill regarding their recent Rotary trip to India.