The City Council recognized Piedmont Community Church’s youth pastor Scott Kail for his years of service by issuing a proclamation in his honor at Monday’s city council meeting. Kail announced his retirement in June after more than 20 years with PCC. As the leader of a yearly mission trip to Mexico, his influence extended beyond the church walls, impacting around 4,000 Piedmont high school students in that time.
Resident Eric Sullivan spoke on behalf of the well-wishers in the chamber. “If you think what the best thing any of us can do in life, it’s to help others,” he said. “If you think when people need help the most, it’s teenagers. They’re often struggling with finding their identity… dealing with problems at home or at school. I participated for many years in the Mexico project. I saw things that changed people’s lives and hearts in a way you don’t see that much.” he said. “There aren’t many things we do in our life as important as what Scott has done, and I know the town is deeply grateful.”
Friends gather around Scott Kail for a celebration in the courtyard 
Scott Kail and Eric Sullivan
The fire department welcomes three new firefighter paramedics
Fire Chief Dave Brannigan welcomed three new firefighter paramedics — Victoria Franzen, Gary Randolph, and Lucas Romero. Family and loved ones were on hand for the badge-pinning ceremony. All three were recruited last fall, Brannigan said, and were experienced paramedics who recently completed a four month training at Las Positas Fire Academy.
Brannigan also singled out firefighter and instructor Chad Walker for his leadership as Piedmont’s liaison to the Fire Academy. “His diligence, attention to detail, persistence, and advocacy yielded a high level of training for our recruits and those from other departments,” he said.
“Every shift the firefighter paramedic must be ready to respond and be sure their equipment is ready. Team work is essential, and they need to fit into several roles. At the station, they continuously train. When you call 911 a paramedic will always be on scene,” said Fire Chief Dave Brannigan.