Serving NEW YORK S TATE Serving Fire, Rescue
Volume 20, No. 6
W W W.FIRENE WS .COM
See story on page 22. - Fire News photo by Lou Minutoli
Fire,Serving Rescue The Magazine & EMS Fire, Rescue Serving & EMS Heroes &Fire, EMS Heroes Rescue Heroes Since Heroes 1973 Since 1996 &Since EMS 1973 October 2026
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Fire News, October 2026, Page 3
In this issue... Niskayuna Pickup Truck Destroyed Niskayuna Fire District 1 firefighters found this fully involved pickup truck on arrival at the River’s Ledge Apartments. See story on page 4
Port Chester Van Fire The Port Chester Fire Department was dispatched to Lyons Street for a reported car fire. See story on page 10
2 Alarm Porch Fire in Schenectady Schenectady firefighters battled a two-alarm fire on Union Street after multiple calls were received. See story on page 16
Serving Fire & EMS Heroes Since 1973 FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher/CEO TIM EDWARDS, Chief Operating Officer GARY P. JOYCE, Editor MYLES QUINN, Long Island Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production LYNN SEDLER, Art Director CLIFF CHIESA, Production Manager BARBARA CONNOLLY, Vice President National Sales SUZANNE BANCROFT, Business Development Manager BRYAN LOPEZ, Editorial Assistant GREG JONES, Graphic Artist DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor Emeritus CONTRIBUTORS: Andrew Aguilar, Chris Aldous, Jeff Ambroz, Peter Barber, Kevin Barry, John Bashaw, Bill Bennett, Tom Bierds, Jeff Couch, Chris Creighton, David Denniston, Rick Douglas, Brian Duddy, Stan Dybus, John Falcone, Ken Flynn, Joe Fortunato, Eli Gill, Mark Gillen, Carol Greene, Tom Heffernan Sr., Greg Herman, Matt Hodge, Steve Hodgekiss, Robert Holley, Daniel Imfield, Andy Jarchin, Bill Johnson, Mark Johnson, Chris Kalisak, Charlie Keller, Jon Kemp, Gordon Kotars, David R. LaRocco, Stephen Lenz, Joshua Long, Mike Messar, Ralph Miele, Albert Mignone, John Miller, Martin E. Miller, Lloyd Mitchell, Brian Natoli, Carleton Raab, Robert Reynolds, Lauren Rivera, Stephen Schaefer, Deborah Schweikert, Tom Shand, John Shaw, Sharon Siegel, Robert Simpson, Joe Sperber, Bryan Sypniewski, Karen Todd, Kyle Townsend, Joe Turner, Michael VanDerLieth, Lori Washburn, D.B. Weimer, Stephen White.
Columnists: Bruce Johnson, John Salka
FIRE NEWS SPECIAL SECTION
SPECIAL SECTION
LEGAL & FINANCIAL ISSUES IN THE FIRE SERVICE See story on page 25-30
Clutter Hampers Far Rockaway Fight A fire broke out in a Far Rockaway, Queens private dwelling. See story on page 32
Rosedale Fire on Brookville Blvd. FDNY companies quickly knocked down a fire on the first floor of a private dwelling. See story on page 42
PLUS: Focus of the Month . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 32 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 34 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 34 Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pages 33, 40 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 41
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Niskayuna Pickup Truck Destroyed
Niskayuna Fire District 1 firefighters found this fully involved pick- came on and,shortly after pulling into a parking lot, the engine up truck on arrival at the River’s Ledge Apartments on Aqueduct erupted in flames. The fire was quickly extinguished and the cause Road on August 3, 2026. The driver stated his check engine light was under investigation. - Fire News photos by Peter R. Barber
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Dekalb Avenue 4-Alarmer
Firefighters battled a four-alarm fire in an apartment building on story building. Units used the cockloft nozzle and four other hoseDekalb Avenue in the Bronx on August 19, 2026. Battalion 15 trans- lines to get the main body of fire knocked down. mitted a second alarm for heavy fire in the cockloft of a large six- Fire News photos by Lloyd Mitchell and Gary Hearn
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Castle Hill 2-Alarm Taxpayer
FDNY companies in the Castle Hill section of the Bronx battled a establishment on the corner and quickly spread to adjoining busitwo-alarm blaze in a row of taxpayers on Castle Hill Avenue on the nesses. Extra trucks were called to complete overhaul in at least morning of August 20, 2026. The fire reportedly started in a food four occupancies. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Port Chester Van Fire
Catskill Kitchen Fire Stopped
On August 12, 2026, the Port Chester Fire Department was dispatched to Lyons Street for a reported car fire. While units were responding, dispatch advised that they were receiving multiple calls reporting the fire. Rescue 40 arrived and confirmed a working van fire. Crews immediately stretched a handline from Engine Company 64 and began extinguishment operations. Firefighters also opened the hood to gain better access to the engine compartment and fully extinguish the fire. - Fire News photo by Brandon Colon
The Catskill Fire Department was toned out for a fire in a multifamily residence on August 2, 2026. Upon arrival, smoke was showing and Catskill requested mutual aid from City of Hudson Fire, Athens Fire, and Earlton Fire’s FAST. The fire was quickly knocked down, and contained to the kitchen area and held from extending. The fire apparently started on the stovetop as new tenants were moving in. Town of Catskill Ambulance and Catskill Police assisted at the scene. No injuries were reported. Command was under Catskill Chief Billy Smith. - Fire News photo by John C. Miller
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Restaurant Fire in Lancaster
On August 17, 2026, Bowmansville Fire Association was alerted for Upon arrival the first crews were met with heavy black smoke, a structure fire at Salvatore’s Italian Garden in Lancaster. made entry and knocked down the fire. It apparently started over Automatic mutual aid came from Lancaster Fire Department, the ceiling tiles in the dining room Hyview Fire Department, Depew Fire Department and Twin - Fire News photo by Jim Lepard District for their FAST in addition to six other fire departments.
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Fatal MVA On Interstate 890
At 0630 hours on August 4, 2026, Schenectady firefighters responded to a report of a serious single-vehicle accident in the westbound lane of Interstate 890 at the Altamont Avenue overpass. Schenectady Police were first to arrive on scene and found a single
sedan up in a wooded area with the driver unresponsive and not breathing. Arriving firefighters called for additional resources to assist with extrication. The driver was taken to Ellis Hospital where he was pronounced deceased. - Fire News photo by Peter R. Barber
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2 Alarm Porch Fire in Schenectady
On July 30, 2026, Schenectady firefighters battled a two-alarm fire occupants escaped safely and the fire was brought under control in on Union Street after multiple calls were received bringing city less than an hour. The cause was under investigation. apparatus and manpower to the scene. According to fire officials, all - Fire News photos by Peter R. Barber
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1 Person Extricated from 3-Car MVA in Newburgh
Firefighters responded to a three-car MVA at the corner of Route responded. One person was extricated and taken to Montefiore St. 9W and Washington Street in the City of Newburgh. The City of Luke’s Cornwall hospital. - Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick Newburgh Police and the City of Newburgh Fire Department
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West Athens Vehicle/Garage Fire
In the early morning of August 25, 2026, West Athens Fire, along with Athens Fire, were dispatched to a structure fire on High Hill Road in the Town of Athens. Upon arrival, units encountered a fully involved garage and vehicle fire with exposures issues. West Athens requested Earlton Fire with a tanker and manpower. The nearby
home was also damaged from the heat. Catskill Ambulance, Greene County Medic, Greene County Sheriffs and New York State Police responded as well. Scene command was under the direction of West Athens First Assistant Chief Jack Ormerod. - Fire News photo by John C. Miller
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Brighton House Fire
New Truck 6 for Rochester
In the evening hours of July 9, 2026, Brighton firefighters were dispatched to Sandringham Road for a possible house fire. Units en route could see a header in the sky and pulled up to find heavy fire showing from a detached garage. Crews worked fast stretching lines and getting water on the fire. There was minor extension to the home but firefighters did a great job and were able to stop it before it caused significant damage. - Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com
Rochester Fire Department’s new Truck 6 was put in service on Jun 27, 2026, during a garage fire on Joseph Avenue. Truck 6 is an E-One Typhoon 110-foot Aerial. - Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com
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Rochester Avenue D House Fire
In the late evening hours of July 16, 2026, Rochester firefighters home and started working to knock down the fire as truck comparesponded to Avenue D for multiple calls reporting a house on fire. nies began searches and checking for extension. The fire was quickFirst arriving companies found heavy fire showing from the rear of ly knocked down and placed under control. the home and heavy smoke showing from the second floor of a 1-1/2 - Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com story wood frame dwelling. Crews stretched lines to the back of the
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Cover Story 1 Dead, 13 Injured in Bronx Blaze
An explosion and fire inside a Bronx apartment building left at least on August 5, 2026. Fire companies from throughout the city one person dead and 13 others injured, including four firefighters. responded to the incident. Fire officials received a report of an explosion on East 209th Street - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com and Gary Hearn near Decatur Avenue in the Norwood section just before 1230 hours
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1 Dead, 13 Injured in Bronx Blaze (continued)
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Bushwick 3-Alarmer
FDNY companies in Bushwick, Brooklyn battled a three-alarm blaze in an attached house on Covert Street on July 5, 2026. The bulk of the fire was in the rear of the building but an aggressive attack brought the blaze under control. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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~ LEGAL & FINANCIAL ISSUES IN THE FIRE SERVICE ~ It’s Never Too Late ( Or Too Early ) To Plan For Retirement We at Lebenthal Wealth Planning, Inc., have been helping clients plan for their retirement for several decades. As President of Lebenthal Wealth Planning, Inc. and a Certified Financial Planner® somewhere along the way every client asks me a variation of the same question: Do I have enough to retire when I'd like to and will I run out of money if I do? Some people are natural planners and start asking this question in their 30s; many others do their best to ignore the topic and don’t start focusing on retirement until they can feel it on the horizon. As mentioned in the title, it is never too early to plan; the prognosticators also need to eventually get around to planning as well. The bottom line is that everyone needs to educate themselves on the issues that can have an impact on their retirement plans and goals. In a person's 30s and 40s it is impossible to know what the long-term inflation rate will be, which will affect spending power, or what Federal or Local estate taxes will be. It is also potentially too early to know what state you will retire in or what curve balls your health will throw at you or a family member. However, there are things that a younger person can control and start early, including saving as much as they can for retirement with the proper investment mix, and also making sure they have purchased the proper insurance coverage that will protect them or their family from long term financial burdens. In a person’s 50s, things can start to come into focus. They can see the finish line for retirement, have a rhythm as to how much they are saving monthly and what they will need when they stop working. If they have children, they have an idea of their potential success, or long-term
financial obligations to them. They are likely beginning to care for their aging parents. Now is the prime time to seriously take an inventory of assets, financial obligations and retirement goals. Questions you should be asking are: What is my projected Social Security benefit? Do I have any pension benefits, and if so, what are my options? What state do I want to be in? If I have grandchildren, do I want to be near them? If possible, try and learn what potential inheritance may be in your future. If you have a spouse or partner that passes away, how does that change things? Do I have a plan for a Long-Term Care event? Importantly, start thinking about HOW you want to spend your golden years. Do you want to travel, buy a boat, join a country club (Continued on page 30) About the Author Michael Hartzman, President of Lebenthal Financial Services, Inc., is a seasoned financial advisor and commentator with extensive experience in wealth management and market analysis. He brings clear insights into investing strategies and economic trends to help readers navigate today’s markets. To learn more from Michael Hartzman, tune in to The Lebenthal Report Podcast—live on VoiceAmerica’s Business Radio every Tuesday at 5 PM EST—or download episodes wherever you get your podcasts.
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~ LEGAL & FINANCIAL ISSUES IN THE FIRE SERVICE ~ Flood, Fire, and Storms: Do You Have the Right Coverage? Floods, fires, and severe storms are among the most common — and costly — threats facing homeowners today. From structure fires and lightning strikes to coastal flooding and wind-driven rain, these events can cause extensive damage in a matter of minutes. While many homeowners believe their insurance will cover any disaster, the reality is more complicated. Having the right coverage before an emergency is just as important as having working smoke alarms or an evacuation plan.
uninsured. A separate flood policy—through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer—is required for protection. Given the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, flood coverage is no longer just a coastal concern; inland communities are at risk as well.
Storm Damage: Coverage Depends on the Cause Storm-related damage is often covered, but details matter. Wind, hail, and lightning damage are generally included, while certain exclusions Fire Coverage: More Than Just Flames Fire damage is typically covered under a standard homeowners or higher deductibles may apply in storm-prone areas. Water damage insurance policy, including damage from flames, smoke, and soot. caused by wind-driven rain may be covered, while water entering from However, coverage limits matter. If a home is not insured to its full ground flooding is not. (Continued on page 30) replacement cost, rebuilding after a fire may leave homeowners paying significant expenses out of pocket. Rising construction and material About the Author costs make regular policy reviews essential to ensure dwelling limits are Stacy Moutafis the Director of Personal Lines at adequate. Hometown Insurance and is a seasoned Licensed Personal property coverage also plays a role. After a fire, damaged Property & Casualty Agent, bringing over 25 years of contents—from furniture to electronics—must be replaced. Without experience in personal lines insurance. With a deep updated limits or accurate inventories, homeowners may struggle to passion for crafting customized insurance solutions, she believes no two clients are alike, and that each recover fully. Floods: A Common and Costly Gap Flooding is one of the most misunderstood insurance exposures. Damage caused by rising water, heavy rainfall, or storm surge is not covered by standard homeowners policies. Even homes outside highrisk flood zones can experience flooding, yet many homeowners remain
deserves a policy tailored precisely to their needs. Known for her thoughtful, client-first approach, Stacy prides herself on building trust and understanding through clear communication and individualized care. Whether it’s adjusting homeowners’ coverage to reflect life changes or fine-tuning an auto policy for added protection, she’s dedicated to helping clients protect what matters most — smartly and confidently.
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~ LEGAL & FINANCIAL ISSUES IN THE FIRE SERVICE ~ Safety Leadership That Protects Firefighters — and Your Bottom Line The fire service operates in an environment where conditions can change in seconds. Effective safety leadership is essential to protect firefighters, preventing injuries, and ensuring that every member returns home safely. Incident Safety Officer (ISO) training provides fire departments with the knowledge, structure, and leadership needed to manage these risks. The ISO supports safety throughout the organization. This role helps identify unsafe conditions, review accidents and near misses, monitor regulatory requirements, recommend corrective actions, and promote safe practices during training, station activities, apparatus operations, and emergency responses. The ISO focuses on safety at the emergency scene. Working within the incident command system, the ISO evaluates changing hazards, monitors firefighter accountability and operating conditions, and alerts the incident commander when an immediate safety concern requires corrective action. Training helps officers recognize hazards early and make sound, timely decisions. It also establishes a consistent safety framework so that members understand expectations, communicate effectively, and respond appropriately when conditions deteriorate. These benefits extend beyond firefighter well-being. A strong safety program can help policyholders: • Reduce the frequency and severity of injuries • Prevent avoidable accidents during training and emergency operations • Identify hazards before they result in a claim
• Improve documentation and investigation of incidents and near misses • Reduce lost time and overtime expenses • Limit operational disruption • Demonstrate a meaningful commitment to risk management Over time, fewer claims and less severe injuries can improve a department’s loss history and may positively affect experience rating, underwriting results, and the cost of Workers’ Compensation and Volunteer Firefighters’ Benefit Law insurance. Although no safety program can eliminate every risk, consistent training and active safety leadership can help control preventable losses and reduce their financial impact. Fire Districts of New York Mutual Insurance Company, Inc. encour(Continued on page 30) About the Author At Fire Districts of New York Mutual Ins. Co. Roy Denny is the Executive VP and Chief Operating Officer. I have been in the insurance industry for over forty years. It is my privilege to work with professionals in collaboration with our team in claims, underwriting and marketing. I enjoy meeting and working with our brokers and policyholders to offer the best customer service and to help protect those that protect us every day. It is our mission to provide workers compensation and volunteer firefighter benefits in support of the fire service. It is our calling and our single mission.
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(“It’s Never Too Late...” continued from page 26) and golf three days a week, or stay near your adult children and provide “free” babysitting. There are no wrong answers; it’s just best to be able to forecast and incorporate these scenarios into your financial plans. In your 60s is when the plan likely becomes reality. However, many people are delaying retirement because they either are not ready to hang it up yet or they cannot afford to. Although retirement may have arrived, that does not mean that planning becomes less important. Now is the time to make sure your asset allocation meets your needs and tolerance for risk. If you are taking money monthly from your investments, be certain that your allocation does not become overly aggressive. You do not want to have to stop taking your monthly income if your account suffers a 20 to 30 percent decline in a given year. Look at your
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insurance policies, is that term policy you bought 20 or 30 years ago about to end, leaving you without life insurance? Can you better allocate these funds now? Do you have a plan to cover potential long-term care needs, or health emergency? Have you taken on financial obligations you did not anticipate, such as an unemployed child, or a grandchild you want to help pay for college or buy them a car? How about a second marriage and a few more family members that are now counting on you? Knowing when your house will be paid off is also valuable information. Once that mortgage is paid for, hopefully your monthly income need will go down as well. Over the years, we have been witness to numerous planned and unplanned circumstances unfold, and while you can never plan for all of them, it is important to start a plan early and update it as life takes its natural twists and turns.
reviews. Homeowners should confirm coverage limits, understand deductibles, and ask about endorsements for flood, water backup, or Sewer or sump pump backups following heavy storms typically extended replacement cost. Maintaining a current home inventory can require a specific endorsement. Without it, cleanup and repairs may fall also make a significant difference when filing a claim. For first responders who see the aftermath of fires and storms firstentirely on the homeowner. hand, education is a powerful tool. The right insurance coverage won’t prevent disasters—but it can make recovery faster, safer, and far less Are You Properly Protected? The best way to ensure adequate protection is through regular policy stressful.
(“Flood, Fire and Storms...” continued from page 28)
(“Safety Leadership...” continued from page 29)
protects people, preserves operational readiness, and supports the longages every policyholder to designate qualified safety officers, provide term affordability of essential insurance coverage. Fire Districts of New York Mutual Insurance Company is co-sponrecognized ISO training, support continuing education, and give these soring ISO training. Look for upcoming classes coming soon on Long officers the authority necessary to perform their responsibilities effecIsland. tively. Protecting those who protect our communities begins with safety. Investing in safety officer training is an investment in your firefighters, your department, and your community. Strong safety leadership
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New Program by Firefighter Arno Memorial Foundation
South Blooming Grove Air Consumption Drill
At the 4th Annual FAM Cookout on August 16, 2026, the Firefighter Arno Memorial Foundation proudly announced its newest program — The Arno Act, created in honor of Firefighter Jason D. Arno. The Arno Act carries Jason’s legacy forward by providing first responders with critical safety training, lifesaving equipment, resources and education. The first recipient was the City of Canandaigua Fire Department, receiving support for a lifesaving Cyanokit. Captain Palumbo accepted the award and spoke about its importance. The second recipient was the Erie County Department of Homeland Security & Emergency Services, supporting its new fire service class, “Beyond the Smoke.” Created in Jason’s honor, the class helps prepare firefighters for situations similar to those he faced — turning tragedy into knowledge that could save another life. Thank you to Captain Palumbo, Deputy Commissioner Couell, and everyone helping carry Jason’s legacy forward. Pictured are members of the Erie County Department of Homeland Security & Emergency Services along with members of the FAM Foundation. - Fire News photo by Jim Lepard
South Blooming Grove Fire District firefighters participating in an air consumption exercise on September 2, 2026 at the firehouse on Route 208 in Orange County. - Submitted by Chief John Salka
Brooklyn All-Hands on Ave L
Brooklyn dispatchers alerted companies from the 33rd Battalion to deployed two hoselines to knock down the main body of fire. a house fire on Avenue L in Brooklyn. Engine Company 309 trans- Searches throughout were negative. The fire was placed under conmitted a 10-75 for fire on the second floor of a two-story private trol at 1055. dwelling on August 11, 2026 at 1018 hours. Members quickly - Fire News photo by Lloyd Mitchell
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Clutter Hampers Far Rockaway Fight
A fire broke out in a Far Rockaway, Queens private dwelling on the units were quickly on the scene to knock down the fire, but a clutter morning of August 29, 2026. The blaze was on the second floor of an condition hampered overhaul operations. attached home on Lewmay Road near Beach 31st Street. FDNY - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Training
West Sand Lake SAR Drill at Rensselaer Training Center
West Sand Lake invited neighboring departments, East Greenbush, that allowed each of the departments to work together fighting Postenkill, Taborton, Spiegeltown to a mutual aid SAR drill at the fires, removing victims and searching for downed firefighters after Rensselaer County Fire Training Center. The new Rensselaer a Mayday call. - Submitted by Lori Washburn; Photos by Truck County Fire Training Center played host to the multiple evolutions
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Newburgh National Night Out
National Night Out it was put on by the Town of Newburgh Police Department, the Town of Newburgh Medical Service, and the local fire department. Music was provided by Midnight Image. - Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick
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Franklinville Celebrates 150th Anniversary
The Franklinville Volunteer Fire Department celebrated its 150th modern equipment available today. Area fire departments particianniversary on August 22, 2026. A firemen’s parade through town, pating in the parade were Franklinville, Farmersville, Machias, a car show, bounce house, food and music were held. The fire Delevan, Yorkshire, Lyndon, Ischua and Allegany. - Fire News photos and Information by Jay K. Bradish department was established in 1876 as the Eagle Engine Company and evolved from hand-and-horse drawn equipment to the most
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Colonie FD’s Golf Tournament to Benefit Burn Fund
On August 21, 2026, the Town of Colonie fire departments gathered at the Colonie Golf Course for the 44th Annual Firefighter golf tournament to benefit the Colonie Burn Fund. This year over 100 firefighters from the 12 departments participated in the annual event. What began as a foggy morning quickly turned into a beautiful sunny day. Golf carts crossed the beautifully revamped golf course all day. It was a great day for the departments to gather for
a day of fun and camaraderie, jokes (such as dropping large marshmallows on the course), and of course fighting for the title. Verdoy’s Leonardo team were the winners for a second year in a row. The event, held annually, helps raise money for the Colonie Burn Fund which helps residents and firefighters who have been affected by fire. - Submitted by Lori Washburn; Photos by Truck
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Davis Park Fire District purchased this 2015 Ford F550/ Firematic BRAT1250/360 from the Cronomer Valley Fire District.
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FDNY’s Family Day 2026
- Fire News photo by Jack McCarthy
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(Continued from page 38)
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Training
Broadalbin and Perth Bail Out Training
On August 24, 2026, members of the Broadalbin and Perth volunteer fire companies participated in their annual Bail Out Training, as required by PESH and established best practices. Company instructors Dan Sowle and Grant Rauch delivered both lecturebased instruction and guided practical evolutions. Both companies routinely operate together as mutual-aid partners, and joint training like this continues to strengthen operational cohesion and reinforce the bond between our agencies. - Fire News photos by Mark Perfetti
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BULLDOG OEM SERVICES NAMES ADAM GRAVES VICE PRESIDENT OF OEM SALES NESQUEHONING, PA | July 27, 2026 – Bulldog OEM Services is pleased to announce that Adam Graves has joined the company as Vice President of OEM Sales. Graves will lead Bulldog’s OEM sales strategy, strengthen relationships with fire apparatus manufacturers and expand awareness of the company’s growing manufacturing capabilities. In his new role, Graves will work directly with OEM and Dealer partners to understand their production needs, develop new business opportunities and identify ways Bulldog can help manufacturer’s overcome capacity constraints and keep apparatus builds moving. He will also support the development of long-term partnerships that align Bulldog’s capabilities with each manufacturer’s operational goals. Graves brings 17 years of fire industry experience across sales, sales engineering, product management, national accounts and supplier-side leadership. Most recently, he served as Director of Sales for the Valor First Responder division of United Safety & Survivability Corporation, where he worked with fire apparatus manufacturers, municipal fleets and military customers on seating, air purification and vehicle safety solutions. His previous experience includes roles with R.O.M., H.O. Bostrom and Kovatch Mobile Equipment (KME). During his time at KME, Graves worked in sales engineering and product management, supporting apparatus specifications, production, product development, customer inspections and post-delivery service. “Adam understands the fire apparatus manufacturing process from several
perspectives,” said Bert McCutcheon, COO of Bulldog OEM Services. “He has worked within an apparatus OEM and has also spent years supporting manufacturers from the supplier side. That experience gives him a strong understanding of the production challenges our partners face and how Bulldog OEM can provide the capacity, craftsmanship and reliability needed to keep their builds moving.” Bulldog OEM Services operates behind the scenes as a manufacturing and fabrication partner for fire apparatus builders. From its 188,000-square-foot facility in Nesquehoning, Pennsylvania, the company provides custom fire body fabrication, pump module assembly, wiring harness production, apparatus upfits, graphics, refurbishment and additional manufacturing services under one roof. Bulldog builds to each OEM’s designs, specifications and quality standards while keeping the manufacturer’s name and brand at the forefront. “Bulldog has built an experienced team with the capabilities needed to provide meaningful support to fire apparatus manufacturers,” Graves said. “I look forward to building strong OEM partnerships and helping manufacturers expand capacity, address production challenges and continue delivering high-quality apparatus to their customers.” Graves is an active member of the Fire Apparatus Manufacturers’ Association and serves on an NFPA committee. He was also invited to Germany to present to NATO fire chiefs. Outside of the fire industry, Graves enjoys fishing, golfing and spending time with his wife and three children. Graves can be reached at 574-370-2288 or agraves@bulldogoem.com.
CITY OF CHARLESTON FIREFIGHTER AND PARAMEDIC PUBLISHES CHILDREN’S BOOK WITH HIS MOTHER TO HONOR FALLEN FIREFIGHTER FATHER AND HELP CHILDREN COPE WITH LOSS Charleston Fire Department firefighter and paramedic Joseph Northup, alongside co-author Taunya Northup Mendenhall, has released a children’s book, Still My Hero, written to help young readers cope with the loss of a parent—especially within first responder and military families. Inspired by Northup’s own experience, his father, a firefighter, was killed in the line of duty on April 1, 2004. The book is told through the eyes of a child navigating that loss, offering a perspective that is both honest and relatable. Still My Hero follows a young boy coping with the death of his father, a firefighter he viewed as his hero. Through simple, heartfelt language, the story helps children understand grief, express their emotions, and recognize that their connection to a lost parent never fades. “This book is for kids who are going through something they shouldn’t have to go through,” Northup said. “In the fire service and military, we understand the risks, but for the children left behind, the impact is lifelong. We wanted to create something that helps them feel understood and not alone.” Co-author and Joseph’s mother, Taunya Northup Mendenhall, brings decades of professional experience supporting victims and families through trauma, helping shape the book’s approach to grief in a way that is both compassionate and accessible for children. Designed as both a story and a resource, the book can be used by parents, caregivers, and counselors to help guide conversations about loss and healing. By presenting grief through a child’s perspective, Still My Hero creates
a safe and approachable way to talk about difficult emotions. The authors hope the book will reach families across the country and serve as a source of comfort for children facing the loss of a parent. Still My Hero is available on Amazon.com. For media inquiries, interviews, or appearances, please contact: Joseph Northup (859) 705-9813 About the Authors Joseph Northup II is a firefighter and paramedic with the Charleston Fire Department, currently assigned to Engine 113 as an Assistant Engineer. He is a member of the department’s Honor Guard Team, Peer Support Team, and Tactical EMS Team. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Fire Protection Administration and a master’s degree in Safety, Security, and Emergency Management from Eastern Kentucky University. His father, also a firefighter, was killed in the line of duty on April 1, 2004, in Kentucky. Taunya Northup Mendenhall holds an undergraduate degree in Psychology and a master’s degree in Social Work and Corrections. She served as a Victims Advocate for nearly 30 years before retiring in 2024. Her professional experience supporting individuals and families through trauma helped shape the compassionate and child-focused approach of Still My Hero. Together, they wrote Still My Hero to help children—especially those in first responder and military families—cope with the loss of a parent.
25 YEARS LATER, WE’RE STILL CLIMBING We climb to honor the firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice on September 11, 2001. We climb for the firefighters who have since died from 9/11-related illnesses. And we climb to ensure their courage, service, and sacrifice are never forgotten. Each 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb is more than a physical challenge. By ascending or walking the equivalent of the 110 stories of the World Trade Center, participants symbolically complete the journey those firefighters began as they raced upward to save others.
This year, as we commemorate the 25th anniversary of 9/11, every step carries added significance. Your participation helps preserve the memory of those we lost while supporting those who continue to bear the weight of 9/11. From August through November, join thousands across the country in making the climb. Participate in a 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb near you, including special Retro Fitness Stair Climb events on September 11 at 75 locations, and help carry this legacy forward.
Page 42, Fire News, October 2026
FireNews.com
Rosedale Fire on Brookville Blvd.
FDNY companies in the Rosedale section of Queens quickly knocked down a fire on the first floor of a private dwelling on Brookville Boulevard on the morning of August 25, 2026. Heavy clutter inside the home delayed overhaul operations. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
ATTENTION
CHIEFS CHAPLAIN In GOOD times and BAD Whether your department realizes it or not you need a
FIRE/EMS
For information on the importance of having a Chaplain in your Fire Department contact 1st Deputy Chief Chaplain Stephen Muhlenbruck at 631-806-7292.
FireNews.com
Fire News, October 2026, Page 43
Tribute
Piseco’s Stephen E. Woehrle
Albertson’s Walter R. Frame
It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that Chief Stephen E. Woehrle, passed away on July 20, 2026, while responding to his last alarm. ‘Steve’ Woehrle, devoted his life to public service and the protection of others. He joined the Elmsford Fire Department at the age of 18 and became a Life Member. He proudly served as a Police Officer with the Village of Elmsford PD until his retirement on June 27, 2009. During his distinguished law enforcement career, he was promoted to Sergeant and also served as Acting Police Chief. His dedication to the fire service led him to serve as Fire Chief of the Elmsford FD. After retiring and moving to Piseco in 2019, Steve, despite ongoing health issues resulting from the September 11, terrorist attacks, he joined the Piseco Volunteer FD. His unwavering leadership led to his appointment as Volunteer Fire Chief in 2024, a role he proudly held until his passing. Throughout his distinguished career in law enforcement and the fire service, Chief Woehrle exemplified leadership, integrity, selflessness and unwavering dedication to his family and community. - Courtesy of Piseco VFD
It is with great sadness that we note the passing of Walter Frame of the Albertson Fire Department. Walter passed quietly at home on August 6, 2026, with his loving wife Kathleen (née Gonyou) at his side. He was 79 years old. He was a proud Vietnam veteran and Purple Heart recipient. He served as President and Trustee of the Albertson Fire Company, County President, Treasurer of the North Shore Fire Council, a Firemen's Home Trustee, and a FASNY officer. He was survived by his wife Kathleen (née Gonyou), children daughter Meghan (Kevin) McKenna, son CSM Robert (Gina) Frame, and son Michael (Melissa). Frame and his grandchildren whom he affectionately referred to as his Rugrats; Erin, John, Abigail, Charlotte, Sophia, Olivia and Eleanor. Predeceased by his parents, Walter and Muriel; and his brother Allan. Walter was a member of NCFF-OWW since its earliest days. Our deepest condolences to Kathleen and the entire Frame family. - Submitted by NCFF-OWW