Actor Steve Buscemi Protests Cutbacks on Fire Stations

Fargo star Steve Buscemi has spoken out against proposals to close many of New York City's fire stations.

Before becoming a Hollywood actor, Buscemi was a New York City firefighter from 1980 to 1984 - and he continues to be a vocal and high-profile supporter. And he joined about 50 demonstrators on Saturday to protest a cost- cutting proposal to close eight firehouses.

Referring to the 343 firefighters killed in the September 11 terrorist attacks, he says, "I think it's a slap in the face, after all that they've done and all that they continue to do. They're just starting to come back. This is just terrible - a terrible message to firefighters because they want to save $10 million or $11 million a year."

New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg, seeking to close a $3.4 billion budget deficit, has proposed eliminating eight firehouses and said last week at least 30 more may have to be closed if the city does not receive state or federal financial assistance.

You know the people of Louisiana donated 3 emergency vehicles to the city after 9-11. A total of about $750,000 or so of stuff.

And I do mean "the people of Louisiana" and not the state. It was done solely by voluntary donations and volunteerism. The way a gov't should conduct charity and not at the end of a gun.

His wife is from the little burg of Amesville, Ohio (a few miles from Athens). He took the time to speak to grade school kids in their classes there a few years ago. As I recall, the hi-lites of his speeches were of substance and impressive for a Hollywood type. I remember shaking my head in amazement after reading an account of his visit in one of the local papers.

He really did seem to have his stuff together (which is what amazed me).

Bloomberg IS an idiot!

What an awful thing to do to the brave Firefighters of New York!

After all they gave at Ground Zero, and all they give everyday..

Why doesn't HE take a paycut to help fund the NYCFD?

He was a flippin' millionaire before he got elected!
That's what I would do, and donate a million more to the NYCFD, if I had that kind of money..it would help set something up for the families, too..

To Firefighters everywhere..words are only that, words, our love and gratitude come from the heart..please know we carry you in our prayers..perhaps words for you from us to God, will help and comfort you..

Thank you so much for your bravery and courage, and I am so sorry for people like Bloomberg..is it true that Firemen also pay for their own food? If it is true, thats not right either!

What can we do to help?
In my town, we have Volunteer firefighters, my next-door neighbor is one of them..I have driven home late some nights from work, and have seen him at fires, car wrecks, and such..they get only a samll stipend for this..

I think I will get my butt in gear, and do more for them, fundraisers and such?

Suggestions Freepers??

Thanks..

Ms.B

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