Pinellas Park swears in three firefighters, honors long-serving staff and proclaims Black History Month

The Pinellas Park City Council on Jan. 23 swore in three new firefighters and recognized several longtime employees for decades of service.

Firefighter James Dean gave the invocation before the swearing-in ceremony. The council introduced and pinned badges for three new hires: Shawn (brought to the department from public works; sworn in Oct. 30, 2024), Derek “Tate” Torski (a former Explorer/Cadet who joined as a recruit in August 2024) and Christina (a recent transfer and award recipient). Heather performed a badge-pinning for Shawn, family members joined some honorees onstage for photos, and the council presented each new firefighter with an official oath of office.

The ceremonial portion also included recognition of long-serving employees. The council presented a plaque honoring Lieutenant Christopher T. Riley for 30 years of continuous service and remarks about his career and community involvement. Vinnie Williams was recognized for 35 years of service to Pinellas Park, including work as a public works foreman. Lieutenant Timothy W. Brooks received a plaque marking 25 years with the department; Brooks thanked Chief Kramer, colleagues and family for support.

Mayor Sandra Lee Bradberry presented a proclamation designating February 2025 as Black History Month for city staff, citing the month’s origins with Dr. Carter G. Woodson and the 1963 March on Washington. In presenting the proclamation, the mayor urged city staff to recognize the contributions of African-Americans to the community and nation.

The ceremonial acknowledgements concluded with applause and group photographs. Council members praised staff and attendees for their service and wished the honorees well in their new or continued roles.