Alameda Firefighters Frustrated With Possible Extension Of Paramedics Plus’ Ambulance Contract
“Service delivery of ambulances has been chaotic the last two to three years. We’re waiting an exorbitant amount of time with firefighter paramedics on scene and no ambulance,” said Sean Burrows, Alameda County Firefighters union president.
The Mercury News:
Alameda County Supervisors To Vote On No-Bid Ambulance Pact
In a deal upsetting East Bay firefighters, Alameda County supervisors are set Tuesday to vote on a three-year contract extension for ambulance provider Paramedics Plus that lessens fines for response delays and includes other givebacks. The vote comes days after a judge dropped Alameda County from a federal lawsuit alleging it accepted illegal kickbacks from Paramedics Plus. (Gafni, 5/8)
In other news from across the state —
Capital Public Radio:
Small Card Designed By UC Davis Scientists Can Reduce Big Food Safety Risks
In California, we take it for granted that beans, lentils and nuts in the bulk aisle of the grocery store are dried properly to avoid being exposed to toxins from mold. That's thanks to food safety technology and consumer safeguards that are largely absent in developing nations, according to Beth Mitcham, Director of the UC Davis Horticulture Innovation Lab, which works on improving people's livelihoods and nutritional health through horticulture. (Mitric, 5/8)
Capital Public Radio:
Few Dozen Water Faucets To Be Replaced On Sac State Campus Due To High Lead Levels
A few dozen drinking water faucets on the Sacramento State campus will be replaced because of high lead levels. The university released test results Monday that show 43 outlets show lead concentrations above the Federal standards. (White, 5/8)
KQED:
The SF Giants Are Zapping Their Brains With Electricity. Will It Help?
The San Francisco Giants, with the worst record in the National League, could probably use a shot of electricity about now... About a third of the major league roster, including “some big-name players,” are working out while using high-tech headgear that sends a weak electrical current to the brain, says Geoff Head, the team’s official sports scientist. (McClurg, 5/8)