VOLUME 13, NO. 4
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Serving New Jersey's Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes SEPTEMBER 2018
Full story on page 24 - Fire News photo by Peter Danzo
Never Forget 9/11/2001 See page 6 – New Jersey Edition –
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Fire News, September 2018, Page 3
In this issue... Egg Harbor Commercial Fire Crews battle a fire in a pool company structure that was through the roof on arrival. See story on page 13
Weatherby Road Entrapment Crews work for over 90 minutes in an extrication, and medevac one person. See story on page 17
Edgewater Park 4-Alarmer A lightning strike causes a fire in a two-story apartment. See story on page 22
Little Falls Car Fire Firefighters respond to a car fire at Montclair State University. See story on page 27
A Service for New Jersey Firefighters and EMS Heroes
146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713 FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher TIM EDWARDS, Executive Editor DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor GARY P. JOYCE, Asst. Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production/Sales LYNN SEDLER, Art Director CLIFF CHIESA, Production Manager Advertising Sales: BARBARA CONNOLLY Graphic Artist: GREGORY JONES FIRE NEWS NEW JERSEY PHOTOGRAPHERS Chad Aaronson, John Axford, Keith Addie, Adam Alberti, Ted Aurig, Kenneth E.Badger, Dick Berry, Tommy Bilancia, Thomas Bischoff, James Bonner, Joseph Brecko, John Buttino, Bob Chester, John Clark, Michael J. Coppola, Alex Coulter, Carl Crossman, Damien Davis, Chris Denton, Alan Dumoff, Brian Duddy, Brett M. Dzadik, Dan Eckert, Doug Fenichel, Tom Finnegan, Joe Fortunato, Liam Glinane, Israel Goldstein, Thomas Hayden Jr., David Hernandez, Robert Halberstadt, Roman Izaryk, Erica Jacoby, Jeffrey Konya, Kevin Maloney, Robert Munson, Paul Newborn, Robert F. Newkirk, Denis Niland, Mike Nowacki, Elvin Padilla, Ed Pinkevicz, Dane Policastro, Michael Ratcliffe, Joe Repici, Paul Rodriquez, Mark Rosetti, Chris Saraceno, Robert Scollan, Dennis C. Sharpe, Steve Sperlak, Steve Skipton, Matt Spadaro, Danielle Tagerty, Tim Sullivan, Robert Tallaksen, Wayne Tasaki, Giuseppe Tartaglia, Jim Trepeos, Gregory Taylor, Ron Trout, Ken VanPelt, Kevin Umbach, Jose Vazquez, Ronnie Viola, Tom Vogel, Tom Walker, Mike Wallace, Chris Whitam, Wells P. Wilson, Gerald Wyhopen, Jr., Peter Danzo. Columnists: Bruce Johnson, John Salka, Billy Goldfeder. COPYRIGHT 2016, THE FIRE NEWS LLC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Bloomfield Swearing In Among other officers, Mayor Michael Venezia swears in his brother Louis as Chief. See story on page 32
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Letters to the Editor, byline articles, and columns represent the opinions of the writers and photographers and are not necessarily the views of the Fire News. We reserve the right to edit all of the above. We are not responsible for errors in advertisements beyond the cost of advertising space. Copy submitted is subject to editing for space requirements. The placing of an advertisement in this publication does not constitute endorsement. Contents are copyrighted. Editorial and advertising copy cannot be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Fire News is published monthly by Fire News LLC, with corporate offices at 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 Announcements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 26 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 32 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 36
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Are We Forgetting? Recently, I asked one of my friends what he remembered about Pearl Harbor. He looked at me like I was nuts! Two other members thought for a minute and figured out that I was gathering information for my September editorial. As for Pearl Harbor, we all agreed that if it wasn't for movies, documentaries and conversations with our fathers and mothers, we would know little about the first-hand experience of WW II. I grew up during the era of the Vietnam War. I can tell you about the protests that happened in 1969 and I can tell you about the saddened feeling my family felt when our neighbor was informed her son was killed in battle. But, I cannot tell you anything about the first-hand experiences about the war because I was too young at the time. I am reflecting about our important history of the past because I woke up last night realizing that another anniversary of September 11 is not far away. Reflecting on 9/11, I can remember where I was and what I was doing. I was teaching a group of eighth grade students. Many of my students had parents who worked in the financial district of Manhattan and quite a few had fathers who were members of the FDNY. All of the teachers in my school went into an emergency
mode to keep our students calm. Yes, there were tears, questions with no answers and serious apprehension of what would be in store for us as the day progressed. I made it through the day and rushed home to my firehouse. When I walked into my station, the silence in the TV room was unnerving. My company was organized into crews, ready to deploy into Manhattan if needed. Our ladder crew was activated to stage in Queens. The next day our rescue truck responded to the Financial District to provide lighting for the residents of Manhattan. I am telling you this for a reason and it is really not about what the Terryville Fire Department did during the attack on the World Trade Center. The other day, I watched a bunch of young energetic responders return from a call. I looked at their faces and saw smiles and heard the members kidding with one another about a plethora of topics. Only a first responder knows the complicated feelings we experience after a call. Talking, kidding around and sitting down for a few minutes with the crew is what helps us bring closure to the call. Looking at the crew, most of them were infants when the World Trade Center was attacked. They have no memories
of that fateful day. What they know about the attack on our country is what they have heard from parents, learned in school, or watched on television. As responders, do they really know what occurred? As time marches on, the first-hand experiences of the past become distant memories. In some cases, this may be a good thing. However, as we continue to lose responders that operated at the World Trade Center, we must insure everyone never forgets. On September 11, 2018, take the time to share stories, comfort a friend who lost loved ones and sit with those who have been taken ill with cancer from 9/11. Remember, we never forget our own! ……Dennis
Announcements 28TH ANNUAL RALPH J. PORCH MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT
NFFF SARBANES SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED TO 80 RECIPIENTS
The Ralph J. Porch Memorial Golf Tournament, sponsored by the Cape May County Fire Chiefs and the 5 Mile Beach Firemen's Association, will be held on Thursday, September 13, 2018 at the Avalon Golf and Country Club in Swainton (NJ). The tournament is the beginning event for the annual New Jersey State Firemen’s Convention, held in Wildwood every September. The convention host over 100,000 firefighters from all over the Tri-state area. Firefighters get the opportunity to look at the latest fire-fighting equipment on the market from apparatus to gear along with fundraising suggestions for their departments. The tournament raises money for various non-profit organizations, in Cape May County, which help our fellow firefighters, such as the Cape May County Fire Training Facility, firefighter families, The Lunch with Lynch Foundation and The Love of Linda Cancer Foundation. We hope that you will be able to continue your support this year. Please remember that the golf tournament is a non-profit organization. Any tournament sponsors will be acknowledged with signs on the golf course and on our website. We would also be happy to receive a gift Certificate to your business to be given out during our banquet. Information about the tournament or sponsorships can be found at: www.cmcfiregolf.com.
Since 1997, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation’s (NFFF) Sarbanes Scholarship Programs have offered the loved ones of the fallen financial assistance to help them fulfill their educational dreams. Recently, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and its partners awarded $338, 921 in scholarship money to 71 children, five stepchildren and four spouses of fallen firefighters for the 2018-19 academic year. Of the 80 recipients, 47 previously received scholarships and 33 are new awardees. They represent 23 different states and will attend institutions in 29 different states and one Canadian province. Awardees will prepare for careers ranging from Social Work to Civil Engineering as well as Fire Science. The Motorola Foundation generously awarded $243,600 to 78 recipients; ICMA-RC awarded $24,500 to 14 individuals; Global Health & Safety awarded three $2,000 scholarships and three $1,500 scholarships for a total of $10,500; National Association of State Fire Marshal's awarded ten $1,000 scholarships for a total of $10,000; Engine Company 5 Foundation awarded two David J. Edwards Memorial Scholarships in the amount of $500 each, two Terry Manning Memorial Scholarships in the amount of $500 each, and one Engine Company 5 Scholarship for $500 for a total of $2,500. The NFFF presented two recipients with inaugural Alan Patrick Sondej Memorial Scholarships in the amount of $47,821.
Scholarships may be used for study at in-state or out-of-state public and private schools. To be eligible, children and stepchildren must be under age 30 presently and have been under age 22 at the time of their firefighter's death. All applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalency or must be in their final year of high school. For more information about the 2018-2019 Sarbanes Scholarships and previous recipients, go to www.firehero.org/resources/family-resources/programs/scholarships/.
2018 NFFF MEMORIAL WEEKEND The 2018 National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend will be held October 6 and 7, 2018, in Emmitsburg, Maryland. For the second year, landmarks across the county will glow in respect to the fallen and their families for Light the Night for Fallen Firefighters. This nationwide lighting is sponsored by the NFFF, as part of the weekend in which we will be honoring 103 fallen heroes. We would like local fire departments to join in this tribute by lighting in red during the Candlelight Service on October 6, or any time during the week of October 1. This would be an additional symbol of support and comfort to the families being honored and whose loved one is being remembered. Go to bit.ly/2mxNI3M to let us know that you will join this extraordinary display of recognition. If you know of any landmarks in your area that you think would light up, please let us know by filling out the form at https://bit.ly/2M3Ijwv.
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Deal Attic Fire On April 21, 2018, Deal Station 61 was dispatched to Monmouth Drive for a structure fire. Police advised of an attic fire and, upon the arrival of Engine 61-75, a second alarm was struck bringing Asbury Park, Long Branch and District 36 RIT from Tinton Falls. Crews initiated an interior attack and were able to access the fire in a matter of minutes, knock it down and keep it from spreading. The truck from Asbury set up their tower and opened up the peak of the roof and found no extension. Oakhurst Station 37-1 covered District 61. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
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17 Years of Remembrance: September 11, 2001
As we remember September 11, 2001, never forget how our lives were changed on that horrible day. Take the time to say a prayer to remember those who were lost, the families that were broken and the lives that continue to be lost as a result of the terrorist attack on our country. - Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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Slightly Complicated Truck Fire in Montclair
On June 4, 2018, Montclair Engines 1 and 2, and Trucks 1 and 2 Engine 2 hand stretched an LDH to a nearby hydrant with the assiswere dispatched to Gordonhurst and Park Streets for a reports of tance of Engine 1 and established a water supply. A hole was cut in smoke coming from a garbage truck. Engine 2 stretched a line but, the side of the truck and the remaining hot spots were soaked. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti upon further investigation, it was discovered the hydraulics failed on the garbage truck and they were unable to open the rear door.
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Millville Ave. MVA
The volunteer fire companies of Mays Landing and Mizpah responded on May 23, 2018, to Millville Avenue for a an MVA with rollover and wires down. Mays Landing Assistant Chief Ken Badger, Jr., arrived to find the single-vehicle accident with an overturn and the occupant out and sitting on the side of the road. There was also a utility pole across the entire length of the road. Command requested Atlantic City Electric and had police shut down the road. Also responding were the Township of Hamilton EMS. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
Rollovers Our Specialty
On May 23, 2018, the Clifton Fire Department responded to a twocar MVA on Union Avenue. One vehicle rolled on its side but all occupants were able to self-extricate and were evaluated by EMS. It appeared one car had run the stop sign resulting in the SUV rollover. While units were on scene of this accident a second rollover was reported across town, the third in one week. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
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Firefighters Experience Smoke Explosion at Allamuchy Structure Fire
On June 1, 2018, Allamuchy firefighters were alerted for a reported structure fire on Oakcrest Drive. Chief Rick Lomonaco was first to arrive to a deck fire with extension to the structure. The crew of Engine 91-61 quickly stretched a line to the front door to attack the blaze that worked its way into the living room. Hackettstown Fire arrived immediately behind 91-61 and began to
extinguish the rear of the structure. Interior crews worked their way up to the second floor to find a light smoke condition with no visible fire. As members began searching for the attic stairs, a smoke explosion occurred in the attic, blowing out the B-side of the house and dropping ceiling debris on two firefighters. The fire took over the attic of the structure and evac-
uation tones were sounded. Firefighters from several companies assisted in establishing a heavy water flow into the house. Multiple fire departments from Warren County, Morris County and Sussex County assisted with firefighting operations, water supply, and station coverage’s. - Fire News photo by Allamuchy FD
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Whitehouse Shed Fire
On May 29, 2018, Whitehouse Fire Company1 was dispatched to fire. Also responding were Readington, North Branch, Lebanon 42nd Street for a report of a lawn mower on fire in a shed. Engines Borough, East Whitehouse and Whitehouse Rescue. The fire was 222 and 221 and Brush 22 responded. Patrol advised of the fire placed under control in about an hour. - Fire News photo courtesy of the Whitehouse FC spreading to an exposure shed. Lieutenant D’Aniello and Firefighter Hill pulled a 1-3/4 inch line, quickly extinguishing the
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Egg Harbor Commercial Fire
The Egg Harbor City Fire Department along with Galloway Township Station 26-5 (South Egg Harbor) responded just before midnight on July 9, 2018, to St. Louis Avenue and the White Horse Pike for a structure fire. Car 10 (Kienzle) arrived and established command for a fire in a 50- x 100foot pool company building with fire showing. Command requested an RIT from the Germania. Command had one engine set up on the A/B corner to attack the fire from the Bravo side while a second engine took the hydrant in front of the structure and supplied Ladder 10, which began knocking down fire coming through the roof. Through a well-coordinated effort, the fire was contained in one hour. Also assisting were Egg Harbor City EMS and Police. - Fire News photos by Dennis C. Sharpe
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Rough Day All Around On the morning of July 15, 2018, the North Hudson Regional Fire and Rescue was dispatched to a fire on 25th Street in Union City. The fire was well advanced on arrival and eventually worked its way up to six alarms and five children passed away due to injuries received in the fire. This assignment required mutual aid from as far as southern Essex County. As cover units were arriving members from NHRFR redirected the cover units to Hillside Place for a reported fire. This resulted in an extremely rare sight of units from Bloomfield, Nutley, Montclair, Secaucus, Bayonne, Kearny, Harrison and Jersey City navigating the hills of North Bergen to arrive at a large three-story frame with a moderate smoke condition throughout the structure. A large number of overhead lines obstructed using aerials so crews went to the roof by ground ladders as Bloomfield, Harrison and Bayonne made the basement and located the seat of the fire. Crews were able to open up the wall and stop the fire from spreading past division 1 as it was working its way up the walls. As the mutual aid was wrapping up from this fire a third reported fire came in on 89th Street and crews responded directly there, some making it to all three scenes. The latter call was a non-event. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
Happy as a Clam? The Cologne Volunteer Fire Company responded to Black Horse Pike in the rear of Walmart on June 18, 2018, at 0117 for a vehicle fire. Cologne Chief Shawn Vallauri established command for a fire in the rear of the truck’s tractor and impinging on the front of the trailer. Mays Landing responded with Water Tender 1819, which stretched a line. The fire was now involving the trailer’s refrigeration unit and threatening its cargo of clams. Once the fire was extinguished, command had the trailer and its cargo checked and found no signs of the fire extending into the trailer. Also on location was Township of Hamilton Police and EMS. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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West Cape May Fire On April 4, 2018, the West Cape May and Cape May Fire Departments were alerted for a fire on Fourth Avenue in the Borough of West Cape May. Cape May Point Fire Company was requested to assist. Upon arrival of WCMVFC Chief McPherson an aggressive interior attack was made in the over-100-year-old balloon frame residence. The fire was declared under control in approximately an hour. Erma Fire Company also responded. - Fire News story by Alex Coulter; photo by Robert Newkirk
Riverdale Machinery Fire On July 3, 2018, the Riverdale Fire Department was called out to extinguish a fire in a mulch machine at RER Supply. Riverdale was assisted by Kinnelon as both were returning from a mutual aid call in Pequannock. - Fire News photo by Alan Hyman, Riverdale FD
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Fire News, September 2018, Page 17
Weatherby Road Entrapment
Crews responded to Weatherby Road near Route 49 with one per- 1530, and a unit from Belleplain. Crews worked for more than 90 son trapped in the vehicle. Upper Township Rescue and Tuckahoe minutes to extricate the victim and secure the scene. Also respondFire confirmed one entrapped and one injured, but out of the car. A ing were Atlanticare Medics and the New Jersey State Police. - Fire News photo by Robert Macom medevac was requested as well as Marmora Fire Rescue’s 1570 and
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River Edge Collapse
On July 3, 2018, the River Edge Fire Department was dispatched to Kress Plaza on Kinderkamack Road for a building collapse with people trapped. A special request was put in for Hackensack Rescue to respond. Units arrived to find over 150 feet of the facade of the building collapsed onto parked cars below. A partial UASI USAR strike was called bringing Paterson, North Hudson Regional and Jersey City. - Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
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NJ Emergency Preparedness Association Announces 2019 Conference Dates The New Jersey Emergency Preparedness Association (NJEPA) recently held election of its officers for 2018-2020 with the following results: President: Pat MacFarland Goelz; VicePresident: Ed Conover; Treasurer: Gary Szatkowski and Secretary: Kim Contos. The officers announced that planning for the 21st consecutive annual conference has already begun and it will be held at the Tropicana Casino and Resort on the Boardwalk in Atlantic City, April 29 to May 3, 2019. Keep an eye on their website www.NJEPA.org next month for more information on speaker and exhibitor/sponsor opportunities. As always, NJEPA is dedicated to bringing nationally recognized speakers and trainers to present at the conference to help fulfill their mission of providing education and training for all persons and agencies involved in the emergency management field, and to promote the development of public and private partnerships in planning, response, recovery and mitigation of all types of emergencies. This annual conference draws more than 1500 attendees and over 100 exhibitors. Boasting over 40 training classes and over 45 breakout sessions, this is the premier conference of its type on the East Coast. This group, organized as a 501-c3, not for profit organization relies on its many partners to provide this unique weeklong training and networking experience.
Aberdeen Celebrates 100 Years
On June 9, 2018, the township of Aberdeen and nearby companies celebrated the 100th anniversary of the Aberdeen Fire Department Hose and Chemical Company #1 with a parade along Lloyd Road with a celebration following at Cambridge Park. Despite temperatures nearing 90 degrees, multiple companies and many residents came out to the parade and park for the celebration with food, drinks, live music and entertainment for the kids. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
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Heavy Damage at Bergenfield House Fire
Bergenfield firefighters were called out for a house fire on Bergen Avenue on the early morning of May 3, 2018. Companies reported heavy fire showing from a 2-1/2 story private dwelling on arrival. A second alarm was quickly requested by Chief Naylis. Companies made a very aggressive attack, quickly knocking down the main body of fire, however the fire had already extended to the second floor and attic. The roof was opened as companies continued to knock down fire on all floors. With mutual aid companies from several departments assisting at the scene, the fire was declared under control. The home was heavily damaged but no injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Peter Danzo
Bergenfield 3-Alarmer
On June 12, 2018, members of the Bergenfield Fire Department Prospect Fire Company Number One responded to a three-alarm structure fire. - Fire News photo by Chris ‘Doc’ Denton
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Smart Thinking in Somers Point
The City of Somers Point Fire Department responded to the New Road, True Value Hardware store, on June 8, 2018, after a Somers Point firefighter working at the store reported a fire. Somers Point Fire Stations 1 and 2 were dispatched with Chief Mike Sweeny who requested a FAST from the City of Northfield, and crews from Scullville and Bargaintown for cover. Command then re-directed
Scullville to the scene and requested the City of Linwood to cover. Somers Point Squad 43 laid in with Somers Point Engine 44 supplying Squad 43, which stretched two lines and quickly knocked down the fire. Scullville responded with their Hovercraft and used the boat's fan to assist with ventilation. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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Edgewater Park Goes to 4 Alarms Taskforce 12 was alerted to an odor of smoke inside an apartment on Green Street on July 3, 2018. Burlington County Central Communications received multiple callers confirming a structure fire after a lightning strike. Chief Meredith reported smoke and fire conditions self-venting from the roof of an L shaped two-story apartment building and requested a third alarm. Due to excessive heat and resources in the area being depleted from numerous calls caused by the storm, the fire was brought up to a fourth alarm before being placed under control after burning for approximately three hours. One firefighter was transported for a minor injury. - Fire News photos by Dave Hernandez
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Cover Story
Passaic 6-Alarmer Just after 2200 on July 16, 2018, Passaic firefighters responded to the reports of a fire on Lexington Avenue. They arrived on scene to find a kitchen fire in the El Chevere Restaurant. The fire quickly extended throughout the store and into the cockloft. Once in the cockloft the fire ran through six businesses in the attached single-story commercial strip mall. Humidity was a big factor in fighting the fire, not only taking a toll on the firefighters, but also causing the smoke to bank down low to the ground resulting in zero visibility at times and fire officials requesting the public be moved as far as a block-and-a-half away. The main body of fire was finally knocked down but hot spots continued to pop up throughout the morning hours as parts of the buildings began to collapse. Fire and water damage affected 11 businesses with three a total loss. Three firefighters were treated for injuries and released. Fire departments from around Bergen and Passaic counties battled the blaze. - Fire News photos by PuckStopperPhotography.com, Mark Rosetti and Peter Danzo
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Farmington Vehicle Fire
The Farmington Volunteer Fire Company responded to Black Horse Pike on June 10, 2018, for a vehicle fire. Farmington Rescue 1547 and Engine 1543 responded and arrived on location to find a vehicle with fire showing from the engine compartment.
Farmington Assistant Chief Harry Goodman established command and requested EMS to the scene. Firefighters quickly brought the fire under control, and the incident was under investigation by EHT Police. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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Little Falls Handles Car Fire On July 1, 2018, Little Falls Engines 4 and 3 responded to the campus of Montclair State University in the lot of Floyd Hall Arena for a car fire. Upon arrival a silver SUV had a fully involved engine compartment fire, which had already extended to a nearby sedan. One line was stretched off Engine 4 and Engine 3 stood by a water source. The fire was quickly knocked down after arrival and crews remained on scene to await a tow truck. - Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
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Linden Dedicates Last-Alarm Memorial
On July 16, 2018, under a scorching sun, the Linden Fire Department gathered to pay homage to eight of its fallen brothers who died in the line of duty. The LFD held the ceremony dedicating their Last Alarm Memorial on the 102nd anniversary of the department. With over 100 people in attendance, many of them family members of the eight late firefighters, Master of Ceremony Deputy Chief Kevin Brady explained that this dedication was the final act of the Departments Centennial Celebration. The time period of the passing of the firefighters being
honored in this memorial started in 1931 and ended in 1983. The eight firefighters are: Firefighter John Mahoney (1931), Captain Albert Wilke (1960), Superintendent of Alarms George Ball (1963), Captain James Dunn (1967), Captain Theodore Peceski (1968), Firefighter James Dunn (1969), Firefighter John Beruck (1974) and Firefighter Lewis Haskell (1983). This memorial would not have been possible if not for the substantial donation made by the Phillips 66 Bayway Refinery. - Fire News photos by Matthew Pribish
EMSCNJ Launches GoFundMe for Memorial The EMS Council of New Jersey (EMSCNJ) has begun a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for its memorial honoring 9/11 EMS responders. The monument, featuring a piece of steel beam from the World Trade Center, will be the only one in the U.S. dedicated exclusively to all the emergency medical services personnel who responded that day. More than 100 people, including local, state and Congressional representatives, as well as EMS, fire and police personnel from around the state, took part in a September 10, 2017, groundbreaking ceremony in Keansburg. The GoFundMe page address: www.gofundme. com/911-ems-memorial. Anyone wishing to donate directly to the organization should make checks payable to "NJSFAC 9/11 Memorial" and mail them to Treasurer Ken Weinberg, PO Box 347, Pittstown, NJ 08867. (Left, left to right): New Jersey State First Aid Council Past Presidents Sue Van Orden, Mary Ann Ferrara, Howard Meyer and Barbara Aras took part in the 2017 groundbreaking service. - Fire News photo provided
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Jamesburg Muster On June 24, 2018, the Tri-Counties Fire Association held their annual antique fire apparatus parade and muster at Thompson Park in Jamesburg. Apparatus were separated by decades and judged on multiple categories and trophies were awarded at the end of the day. All apparatus also participated in a lights-and-sirens parade around the park followed by three rigs drafting from the nearby lake. Best in Show apparatus was a family-owned 1960 ALF pumper (top). - Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
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New Milford Drills
Recently, the members of the New Milford Fire Company 1 participated in a drill at Bergenfield’s Fire Training Center. The members practiced fire attacks on the first and second floors of the structure. One of the training evolutions had crews advancing a line from the second floor to the first floor simulating a crew attacking a basement fire. - Fire News photos by Chris ‘Doc’ Denton
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Not an Everyday Swearing In On July 10, 2018, the Bloomfield Fire Department held a promotion ceremony for Fire Official Thomas, Fire Captains Martin Kaczmarczyk and Robert Griffin, Deputy Fire Chiefs Robert Barra and Brian McDade, and Department Fire Chief Louis Venezia. This promotion was a bit of a rare case as Mayor Michael Venezia was able to swear in his own brother as Chief. - Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
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Firehouse Kitchen
Town 4 Troop Iron Chef Competition By Ray Cooney On Sunday, July 22, 2018, I attended one of the most exciting events I have been to. It was “America’s First Responder Iron Chef” competition and took place in Mountainville, New York — a small town at the foot of the Catskill Mountains. The Blackrock Fish and Game Club were the hosts. This competition allowed first responders from all different areas to participate. From volunteer first responders to paid first responders, as well as military personnel, all were welcome. The rules of this Iron Chef competition were as follows: on a table were 20 different ingredients. Each team would have to pick two items from the 20 to use in their main dish. The order for which team would pick first was decided by the appetizer each team created. The public in attendance would vote on the appetizers and the team with the most votes would pick their two ingredients first and the second-place team would pick their two ingredients out of what was left, etc. As you can imagine, the last team that was left to pick had slim pickings. Each team had to use bison meat plus their two chosen ingredients for their recipe. They could add other ingredients, but those three items were a must. Woodbury (Long Island, NY) EMS won the appetizer competition, thereby giving them the first pick at the ingredients. They chose white wine and a half-pound of prosciutto. Now you would think this team would wind up being the overall winner by having the best choice of ingredients, but sadly this was not true for them. The team that placed fourth, in the appetizer competition, took home the title of Iron Chef Champion. They were the Sons of the Legion Post 488 of Monroe, New York, led by John Budrow. It was his is version of bison and bacon ravioli
with shiitake mushrooms and white wine sauce. It was accompanied with an arugula salad with a sweet caramel dressing. The ingredients they picked from the list of 20 were tomato sauce and breadcrumbs. John informed me that he used these two ingredients in the mix of the meat that went into the raviolis. With only an hour to prepare the meal, John shared one of his little cooking secrets. He didn’t use homemade ravioli shell. Instead, he used wonton shells from a local Chinese restaurant! Upon the initial presentation of the finished meal, I made a joke that it looked like someone got sick on the plate (based upon the submersion of the ravioli in the white wine/mushroom sauce). John pushed me to taste it. It was outrageous. I knew immediately that this would be the winner. Next year, if you are not doing anything when the event rolls around, I suggest you try and make every effort to attend. E-mail Town4troops.com for information. Special thanks to all the teams that competed. A special thank you to Sean Lowe, of the Harriman Fire Department, for inviting me to this event. One more thing, if you are wondering, that is the famed 343 Chopper from television’s Orange County Choppers. They were there and would not let me ride the chopper home! To find out more about Firehouse Kitchen, visit firehouseshow.com. To find out how you can have your fire house on Firehouse Kitchen, e-mail firehousekitchentv@gmail.com.
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Colonia 75th Anniversary On June 2, 2018, the Colonia Fire Department of Woodbridge hosted a parade celebrating 75 years of service to the community. Departments from near and far participated. The parade was followed by food, drinks and the awarding of trophies. - Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
West Milford Changing of the Colors
Firefighters from Company 4 of the West Milford Fire Department took action to replace the weather torn flags at Veteran’s Park with new ones. It was noticed at the Memorial Day services that the flags were in need of replacement, so the members took action and the company bought and replaced the old flags. Over the weekend the new flags were raised and the old flags retired. - Fire News photo courtesy Chief Chris Page; story by West Milford FD Co.4 PIO
Marking the 30th Anniversary of Hackensack 5
July 1, 2018, marks the 30th anniversary of line of duty deaths of five members of the Hackensack Fire Department who lost their lives fighting a fire at the Hackensack Ford Dealership. The building had a truss roof and collapsed trapping the five members of the department. After this tragedy, a nationwide standard was set to have signs on buildings to indicate if the building has a truss floor or roof. Every July 1, members of the community come to the memorial to remember the five firefighters who lost their lives: Capt. Richard L. Williams (53); Lieutenant Richard R. Reinhagen (48); and Firefighters William Krejsa (51), Leonard Radumski (38) and Stephen Ennis (30). - Fire News photo by Chris ‘Doc’ Denton
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3-Vehicle Wetdown in Fair Lawn On June 23, 2018, the Fair Lawn Rescue Squad held a triple wetdown for their new apparatus, 890, a 2017 Ford Explorer; 894, a 2015 Dodge Ram; and Rescue 1, a 2017 Spartan Gladiator/Rescue 1. Many nearby departments came by to celebrate and take part in the festivities. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
Fort Lee Wetdown Recently, Fort Lee Fire Department hosted a dedication and wetdown for the brand-new Rescue 2 that is assigned to Company 2. Normally, Fort Lee paints their trucks white over red or solid white with a red stripe. Company 2 decided to do something different: a mother-of-pearl black rescue truck with silver lettering and graphics. This was a family event for residents of Fort Lee and all surrounding communities. Special guests at the wetdown were the Pink Heels (Bergen County Chapter) with one of their pink fire trucks. They were selling their t-shirts and allowing people to sign their fire truck. Food came from local businesses that donated it and music was provided by DJ Johnny Mac. - Fire News photo by Chris ‘Doc’ Denton
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100 Years of Volunteerism in Denville Recently, the Denville Fire Department recognized three active members for a cumulative 100 years of volunteerism in Denville. (Left to right): past-Chief Charles Botti, 40 years of service; past-Assistant Chief Mark Mellini, (20); First Aid Captain William Keating (40 including serving for 31 years as First Aid Captain). All three men continue to be active members of the Denville Fire Department. - Fire News photo courtesy of Jeanette Botti
New Officers Sworn in Bridgeton The Great City of Bridgeton Police Department on July 17, 2018, held a swearing-in ceremony during the city council meeting for the promotion of two new lieutenants and two new sergeants. Being sworn in by the Honorable Mayor Albert Kelly, was the first female and Latino Police Lieutenant Jahaira Roman. Looking on (left to right) is Police Chief Michael Gaimari, Lieutenant Christopher Wright, Sergeant Michael Pastirko, and Sergeant Kenneth Leyman, who were all sworn in that evening. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe and City of Bridgeton
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Up Close & Personal
Names from (left to right): Riverdale Captain James Regeling, Sr., Peter Franceschi and Nasir Mora at a July 3, 2018 mulch machine fire. Franceschi and Mora recently graduated from Firefighter One. - Fire News photo by Alan Hyman, Riverdale FD
Clifton Chief of the Department McCarthy at a recent fire. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
Chris Paulison of Wayne Company 2 at a boat fire on June 14, 2018. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
(Left to right): James Rydarowski, Ronald Priest, James Anderson and Mark Watkins of Willing Boro Fire Department on June 13, 2018. - Fire News photo courtesy of Mark Watkins
Egg Harbor Township Fire Department Secretary Judy Bond along with Fire News photographer Ken Badger and West Atlantic City Chief Wallace Bakely admiring the memorial walk at the EHT Historical Center on June 25, 2018. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe Upper Township Marmora’s Captain Mike Endicott strategizing at a recent fire. - Fire News photo by Robert Macom
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Canale Honored in EHT The Egg Harbor Township Fire Department in Atlantic County held a memorial brick laying in memory of Chief Anthony ‘Tony’ Canale at the Egg Harbor Township Historical Center on June 25, 2018. Chief Canale was the long-time Chief of Department who passed away several years ago and this was the decision of the fire department as a way to honor his memory. - Fire News photos by Dennis C. Sharpe and Ken Badgers
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