VOLUME 8, NO. 10
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes In NY State AUGUST 2015
The Manlius Fire Department responded to a report of heavy fire and smoke at a large apartment complex. See page 6 for the full story. -Fire News photo by Bradley M. Pinsky
Fire News Welcomes Everyone to
Firehouse Expo in Baltimore Visit us at Booth 636 – New York State Edition –
Page 2, Fire News, August 2015
FireNews.com
FireNews.com
Fire News, August 2015, Page 3
In this issue... .
Schenectady Blaze
Two houses on Columbia Street caught fire bringing the entire compliment of apparatus to the scene. See story on page 7
3 FFs Injured in Walden 3-Alarmer
Firefighters were called out for a three-alarm blaze in a three-story building on Orange and Main Streets in Walden. See story on page 9
Historic Rochester Church Destroyed
The first arriving company found fire on the C side of the 1870sbuilt structure. See story on page 11
2 Injured at Rochester House Fire
A mother and daughter were sleeping at the time of the fire. The daughter escaped by jumping from the second floor but the mother suffered smoke inhalation. See story on page 14
New Rochelle Firefighters, Police Fundraise Over $40Gs New Rochelle firefighters and police came together to more than double initial fundraising projections.
See story on page 25
OBITUARY
Maplewood’s First Chief, Joseph Hetko The Maplewood Fire Department laid to rest their first chief, Chief Joseph Hetko.
A Service for New York State 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, EVELYN ALOISIO Graphic Artist: GREGORY JONES 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, 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, 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 COPYRIGHT 2015, THE FIRE NEWS LLC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
For advertising rates and information, call (631) 776-0500 Press 3 Editorial: (631) 776-0500 Ext 281 Fax number: (631) 776-1854 Internet: http://www.firenews.com Email:nys@firenews.com
Six Editions Serving Long Island, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Pennsylvania Proud Member Of:
See story on page 28
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 4 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 24 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 25 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 29 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 30
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.
Page 4, Fire News, August 2015
FireNews.com
From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
The
Firehouse Table It was 1959 when I sat at my first firehouse table. I was a young kid who stopped by the quarters of Engine 233 in Brooklyn. The table was a long wooden table that was covered with black “battleship linoleum.” I remember having my first cup of tea at that table, which was made with sugar and evaporated milk. I also remember the conversation that was going on at the table. The members were talking about a cartoonist named Ham Fisher. Ham was known for creating the comic strip Joe Palooka. Ironically he was a buff at a Brooklyn company. Before Ham took his life in his Brooklyn studio, he painted a scene of Joe Palooka on the kitchen wall of his favorite firehouse. Unfortunately, the scene was painted over by accident when a probationary firefighter was asked to paint the kitchen and painted over the last picture that Ham Fisher drew. The members of Engine 233 commented on and on about the mistake that was made. Yes, this was the first conversation I listened to at a firehouse table.
As I travel throughout the country and stop by local firehouses, I find that the tables have changed in appearance — some are works of art. One thing appears to have remained the same. The stories in every firehouse kitchen deal with a multitude of topics. The kitchen table is still where we discuss calls, both good and bad, training, family, and where we share personal problems, and solve all of the problems of the world. Unfortunately there are times we sit at the table and stare into our coffee and never say a word. These are the times that we probably want to forget about. Maybe it was a fatal call, or possibly we suddenly lost a member who was loved by everyone. Sooner or later someone says something monumental about that member and we all start to smile and add our own memories. Yes the kitchen table can be a sacred place where we lessen the effects of post traumatic stress. Numerous times members just open up to one another and share what is on their mind. When they leave, the remaining members will look at one
another and say, “what are we going to do?” Ray Cooney, a retired FDNY firefighter, has an article every month in Fire News. He shares great recipes along with kitchen stories. His TV show which is aired on cable TV brings you into different firehouse kitchens throughout the area. Please visit Firehouse KitchenShow.com to learn more about Ray and his show. Regardless of the location, the firehouse kitchen is a sacred place. Whether it is a round table, a long rectangular table, a couch and coffee table, this is where firefighters bond with one another and learn about their brothers and sisters. It is where we help one another cope with everyday situations. The next time you sit at your kitchen table, listen and learn. When my wife asks where I am off to, I tell her I am going for coffee at the Table of Knowledge. She knows what I mean and smiles. What is better than good company, good conversation, and a lasting friendship of the firehouse table. ... Dennis
FireNews.com
Fire News, August 2015, Page 5
ANNOUNCEMENTS FASNY APPLAUDS THE PASSAGE OF SMOKE ALARM LEGISLATION
Bill requiring 10-year, non-removable sealed batteries will make New York State safer Firemen’s Association of the State of New York President Robert McConville tissued the following statement after the New York State Senate voted to pass S2696— which requires that all battery operated smoke alarms sold in New York State be equipped with non-removable, sealed-in batteries capable of powering the device for at least 10 years. The bill has now passed in both the Senate and the Assembly. “As firefighters, we frequently encounter the horrific effects of fires in homes without working smoke alarms,” said FASNY President Robert McConville. “This bill makes New York State a safer place and will undoubtedly go a long way towards preventing future home fire deaths. FASNY thanks New York State Senate Majority Leader John Flanagan and New York State Assembly Majority Leader Joseph Morelle for their leadership on this issue, and commends the entire legislature for prioritizing the safety of all New Yorkers. We look forward to working with the Governor in the coming weeks to see this bill become law.” According to the National Fire Protection Association, three out of every five home fire deaths in the United States takes place in a home without working smoke alarms. Firefighters frequently encounter smoke alarms that have been disabled or are missing batteries.
New York State Fireman’s Parade and Motorized Drill Hosted by the Selden Fire Department
New York State Drill August 15, 2015, 0900 Start
Drill Location is at Fireman’s Park, Ridge New York Rain Date: August 16, 2015 at 0900
New York State Parade August 16, 2015 at 1300
Selden Fire Department, Selden, New York Visit www.SeldenFD.com for applications. Visit www.NYSDrillTeams.com for racing schedules.
PASS IT ON WITH BILLY GOLDFEDER The West Seneca Emergency Management Office and the Fireman’s Memorial Exhibit Center present Billy Goldfeder-Pass it On. Proceeds from this event and the sale of his book will benefit the Chief Ray Downey Scholarship and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. The event will be at the West Seneca West High School on Wednesday, September 23, from 1900-2100. The cost is $10 per person. Register by September 15, 2015. Visit www.FMECWNY.org/Goldfeder. E-mail FMECWNY@gmail.com or jgullo@TWSNY.org. Make checks payable to Firemen’s Memorial Exhibit Center. Memo: Billy Goldfeder.
Special Thanks to Town of Brookhaven Supervisor Edward P. Romaine
Page 6, Fire News, August 2015
FireNews.com
Cover Story
Manlius Battles 3-Alarmer
On May 6, 2015, the Manlius Fire Department was called to a report of heavy fire and smoke at a large apartment complex. Upon arrival, Assistant Chief Brad Pinsky transmitted a second and then third alarm. Over 15 departments throughout Onondaga and Madison counties, and well over 100 firefighters responded to the
emergency. Several pets and most of the tenants’ belongings were saved by the quick work of the responding departments. (Above): Manilus Firefighter Dan Hickey conducted a search during the fire and located a dog under a bed in the main floor of the fire. -Fire News photos by Bradley M. Pinsky
FireNews.com
Fire News, August 2015, Page 7
Schenectady Blaze
Lightning Strike
Two houses on Columbia Street in Schenectady caught fire bringing the entire compliment of apparatus to the scene. The fire was brought under control quickly and no injuries were reported." -Fire News photo by Peter Barber
Schenectady firefighters were called out to battle a two-alarm fire on Eastern Avenue after lightning struck the residence igniting an attic fire. No one was home at the time of the fire and firefighters managed to save a pet hedgehog. - Fire News photo by Peter Barber
Walden Installation
The Walden Fire Department held their installation dinner on April 25, 2015, at the Walden Firehouse. New officers sworn in were: Chief Fred Williams; 1st Assistant Chief Larry Sager; 2nd Assistant Chief Charles McNeely; Captains Dennis Wilson, Jr., Mike McNamee and Jim Totonis; 1st Lieutenants Brad Davis, Brent Norman and Bobby Montanaro; 2nd Lieutentants Shane Killiea and John Stabner; and Fire Police Captain Barry Estep. - Fire News photo by Steve Lenz
Page 8, Fire News, August 2015
FireNews.com
Vacant Home 2-Alarmer
Fatality, Injuries in Bradley Street Blaze
Schenectady firefighters battle a two-alarm fire in a vacant home on 6th Avenue in the Mont Pleasant section. The fire was started on the outside of the structure and quickly consumed the interior of the house. - Fire News photo by Peter Barber
Recently, multiple calls reporting a structure fire with people trapped on Bradley Street came pouring in to the Unified Communications Center. Five police officers entered the home to rescue one of the occupants, getting her to the front door and were overcome by smoke and heat. All were treated and released from a local hospital. Three firefighters also suffered minor injuries. A second occupant was located by firefighters on the second floor and pronounced deceased at the scene. Truck 405 from Niskayuna responded as mutual aid. - Fire News photo by Peter Barber
FireNews.com
Fire News, August 2015, Page 9
3 FFs Injured in Walden 3-Alarmer - Fire News photo by Steve Lenz
On June 20, 2015, firefighters were called out for a three-alarm blaze in a three-story building on Orange and Main Streets in Walden. Ten departments operated at the scene with numerous standby departments covering. Three firefighters were transported to the hospital.
- Fire News photo by Steve Lenz
- Fire News photos by Gary Hearn
Page 10, Fire News, August 2015
FireNews.com
Bronx 2-Alarmer
Hollis House Fire
FDNY companies in the Soundview section of the Bronx battled a two-alarm blaze on the second floor of a three-story mixed occupancy on the morning of May 31, 2015. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
FDNY in Queens were alerted to a house fire on May 28, 2015. The house, in the Hollis section, presented a heavy fire condition on the first floor on arrival. Radiant heat caused some extension to an adjacent home. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
FireNews.com
Fire News, August 2015, Page 11
Historic Rochester Church Destroyed
Recently, the Rochester Fire Department was dispatched for multiple reports of a church on fire. The first arriving company found fire on the C side and declared a working fire in the 1870s-built structure. The first arriving chief struck a second alarm due to the size of the structure. Companies started to make progress on the single-story addition in the rear when the fire broke through the roof of the sanctuary. After a watermain break was discovered, a third alarm was called to support the master stream operations on all sides in addition to three quints using elevated master streams. The third alarm brought more than 65 firefighters and support staff to the scene and at least 11 pieces of equipment and mutual aid. One firefighter was treated for heat exhaustion. No other injuries or damage was reported. The structure was to be razed according to Deputy Chief Stadler. There were separate reports of a man running from the building prior. The Rochester Arson Task Force was investigating. - Fire News photos by John Spaulding
Page 12, Fire News, August 2015
FireNews.com
Queens 5-Alarmer
FDNY units battled a fierce fivealarm fire in Queens on May 31, 2015, in a single-story commercial building on 218th Street in the Queens Village section of the borough. The fire quickly spread throughout the structure and flames and smoke could be seen for miles. Heavy rain and lightning hampered initial operations. Companies from surrounding areas assisted in the operation but the blaze was not placed completely under control until the following morning. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
FireNews.com
New House Burns
On May 22, 2015, Schodack Valley firefighters were called out for a structure fire on Shufelt Road. Before turning up the almost1000-foot driveway, flames were showing over the trees. Castleton arrived and laid-in their bed of large diameter hose, while other town departments set up to supply water with mutual aid tankers from the towns of Nassau, East Greenbush and Valatie. This was a new home that the family had just moved into nine days prior. Fire investigators pinpointed the fire as having started in a truck in the garage. - Fire News photo by Martin E. Miller
Fire News, August 2015, Page 13
Fire in Vacant Bushwick Ave. House ‌ Again
FDNY companies battled a three-alarm fire in a vacant frame building on Bushwick Avenue in early on June 16, 2015. The building was the scene of a previous fire and fire marshals were called to investigate. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Page 14, Fire News, August 2015
FireNews.com
2 Injured at Rochester House Fire
On May 29, 2015, a fire was reported on Minder Street. First arriving Rochester companies encountered heavy smoke. The fire, which appeared to have started in the kitchen, made its way through the walls to the second floor. A mother and daughter were sleeping at the time of the fire. The daughter escaped by jumping from the sec-
ond floor but the mother suffered smoke inhalation. Both were treated by EMS. The fire was brought under control in less than 30 minutes, according to Battalion Chief Rick Yackel. Three rooms burned and received severe damage. - Fire News photos by John Spaulding
FireNews.com
Fire News, August 2015, Page 15
Berne Beaver Dam Bursts
On June 17, 2015, the Berne Volunteer Fire Department responded to an apparent break in a beaver dam which flooded roads and created traffic problems. As a result of the heavy water flow, sections of State 443 and CR 303 were damaged. Both Albany County and New York State DOT crews were on the scene, as well New York State Police and the Albany County Sheriff’s Department. - Fire News photos by Tom Heffernan
Page 16, Fire News, August 2015
MVA in Newburgh
Recently, the Orange Lake Fire Department responded to a singletruck MVA on Rock Cut Road in Newburgh. One person was taken to the hospital. - Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick
FireNews.com
That ‘No Trucks’ Sign Isn’t for You
A wayward tractor-trailer entered the eastbound lanes of the Belt Parkway in Laurelton, Queens, on June 18, 2015, and then plowed under a LIRR train trestle peeling the roof off the rig. The accident caused a monumental traffic backup on the Belt Parkway, which extended back into Brooklyn. FDNY companies and EMS personnel stood by while crews unloaded the truck and a crane was brought in to remove the trailer portion from the roadway. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
FireNews.com
Onesquethaw Responds to MVA
On June 10, 2015, the Onesquethaw Fire Department responded to a rollover crash on Indian Fields Road at Onesquethaw Creek Road. Upon arrival they found a vehicle off the road on a sharp curve, which had rolled down an embankment and ended up on its roof. The female driver was alone and was transported to the Albany Medical Center with non-life threatening injuries. The Onesquethaw Fire Department was assisted by Albany County EMS and Paramedics, and the Onesquethaw Fire Ambulance. Onesquethaw rolled their new Rosenbauer Pumper 25-31 to its first call. - Fire News photo by Tom Heffernan
Fire News, August 2015, Page 17
MC Into Car MVA
Recently, the Orange Lake Fire Department was called out for motorcycle-car MVA on Route 17 and Fletcher Drive in Newburgh. The motorcyclist was transported to the hospital by the Town of Newburgh EMS. - Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick
Page 18, Fire News, August 2015
FireNews.com
Schenectady MVA
Route 17 MVA
Schenectady firefighters work to remove the driver of this car after she slammed into a crash cushion protecting a construction zone on Interstate 890 near the Michigan Avenue exit. Fire crews used a hydraulic rescue tool to free the woman. She was taken by ambulance to Albany Medical Center. -Fire News photo by Peter Barber
The Good Will Fire Department was called out for a two-car MVA on Route 17. One person was taken to the hospital. - Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick
FireNews.com
Fire News, August 2015, Page 19
Cooking with Friends
Making my way into Red Hook, Brooklyn is always fun. Fighting the traffic is the highlight of the journey. At the end of this journey, awaited a great reward — Friends of Firefighters. FoF is a firefighter charity that was created after the attacks on 9/11. Its quarters are actually located inside an old firehouse — the original Engine 202, Ladder 101. “It is a sanctuary for New York City firefighters,” said Nancy Carbone (one of the charity’s founders). When I arrived, I was greeted by Tony Catapano and Pete Calascinoe, both retired from Engine 202. “What are we cooking today?” I asked my two Italian friends. They said we are going to make chicken oregenata and pasta insalata. “Pasta insalata?” I asked. “What’s that?” Pasta insalata is a delicious pasta salad served room temperature with uncooked sauce. They were surprised that I never heard of it, knowing my history of being married to an Italian woman. As we were preparing the food, we spoke of the old days in the fire department. Tony, being a 42-year veteran of the FDNY, made me feel like I was in the kitchen again cooking with the senior men. It was comical cooking with these guys. They were stepping on each other’s words, questioning each other on what to put in the recipe and then agreeing on what to and not to add. It was like watching an old, married, Italian couple! One thing they were both passionate about was FoF. They both have been involved almost from its conception. FoF provides counseling, support and health services, such as yoga, acupuncture, etc., to the FDNY. This is a dynamite cause and is why I am getting involved. Being a 9/11 firefighter myself, this charity really hit home. This is why the next season of Firehouse Kitchen will be aiding in the raising of funds for FoF. Feel free to visit FoF at friendsoffirefighters.org. To find out more about Firehouse Kitchen or how to become a sponsor, visit firehousekitchenshow.com.
PASTA INSALATA Large can of whole tomatoes Garlic Cloves Olive Oil Basil Parsley Romano Cheese 1 lb. of penne pasta Boil water for pasta. When water boils, place uncooked pasta in pot and cook, stirring occasionally. While that is cooking, pour can of tomatoes into large mixing bowl and squish with hands. Press out garlic cloves and add to taste. Mix 1/3 cup of olive oil, chopped basil and parley to the sauce and garlic mix. Mix together and add Romano cheese to taste. Set aside tomato sauce and let sit for approximately 20 minutes. Strain pasta when cooked. Pour tomato dressing over pasta and enjoy. It's fast, easy and delicious!
Page 20, Fire News, August 2015
All-Hands in Brooklyn
FireNews.com
FDNY units in Brooklyn responded to an all-hands blaze in a six-story occupied multiple dwelling on Gates Avenue on the afternoon of June 13, 2015. -Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
FireNews.com
Fire News, August 2015, Page 21
Enjoy Retirement, Swetzy
In the fire service, we mostly discuss firefighting techniques, training, and the apparatus used to complete the tasks and get to and from the calls for service safely. We don’t often discuss the men and women that work in the shop ensuring everything is up to snuff. After 20 years of working on school buses at the National School Bus Company Tom Swetz applied for the City of Rochester Superintendent of Apparatus position that was open. Tom was very qualified for working on large trucks, except one thing — pumps. After a few months he inquired again and was given the position. He was charged with maintaining and specifying new apparatus orders to meet the demands of Rochester’s fire department and fleet. The building that is used for maintenance was built in the 50s and lacks some space, even after a major remodel was done 15 years ago. Tom manages about six mechanics. One of those mechanics is on duty during the overnights for repairs at firehouses if possible to prevent changeovers to a reserve truck. ‘Swetzy,’ as everyone refers to him, officially retired on June 26, 2015 after starting on December 6, 1989, under the command of Chief Huether, and serving under eight different chiefs. He is now 64, and lost his wife last year to cancer. It made him take a hard look at what he has done, and what was left in his life. He has three kids and three grandchildren. Being assigned as Car 7, he was responsible to respond to every second-alarm-or-greater call to ensure the trucks were working properly. He left the job after an early-morning three-alarmer. He had already turned his gear in, so he was checking every truck in his flannel and jeans. He truly cares about each truck to ensure they don’t fail during operations. His greatest satisfaction is just that; that the trucks perform flawlessly at each scene. He is definitely going to miss all the guys and says that getting out to the firehouses was always a high point. Nearly every firefighter on the job echoed that statement, saying they are going to miss him. They also wonder who can replace him. He was seriously dedicated to the job and the trucks.
Swetzy grew up in the city and raised his kids in the city in the same house that he purchased from his mother. He was married for 44 years, and by speaking with him, you can tell he misses his wife, almost shedding a tear. But he was quick to say he was moving on with his life. He didn’t want a retirement party, but the mechanics got him a cake anyway. He plans on spending some more time at his hunting cabin. Just about everyone says he will leave a void in the department that will be tough to fill. His unique sense of humor and almost curmudgeon attitude made everyone like him. -Fire News photo by John Spaulding
Page 22, Fire News, August 2015
FireNews.com
Cronomer Valley Car Fire
The Cronomer Valley Fire Department was called out for a car fire at the Leptondale Deli on Route 300 and Lakeside Road. Orange Lake also responded. - Fire News photos by Vinnie Dominick
FireNews.com
Fire News, August 2015, Page 23
Let’s Be Careful Out There
On June 12, 2015, the Watervliet Fire Department along with Green Island Fire and Watervliet Arsenal Fire Departments responded to a simulated head-on/fatal crash in front of the high school. The local MADD group sponsors a drill around prom season to drive home the results of driving while intoxicated. The other very serious practice among teenage drivers is text messaging, which is on a rapid upswing causing serious and or fatal crashes. - Fire News photos by Tom Heffernan
Page 24, Fire News, August 2015
FireNews.com
Scenes from the NYSAFC Convention -Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
PIERCE EXPANDS DEALER TERRITORIES FOR CHURCHVILLE FIRE EQUIPMENT, FIREMATIC SUPPLY, AND GLICK FIRE EQUIPMENT Leading Pierce dealerships take on new territories in New York and Pennsylvania. Pierce Manufacturing, an Oshkosh Corporation (NYSE:OSK) company, announced an expansion of the dealer territories for Churchville Fire Equipment, headquartered in Churchville, New York; Firematic Supply Company of Long Island, New York; and Glick Fire Equipment, based in Bird-in-Hand, Pennsylvania. The three organizations have more than 90 years of combined experience representing Pierce Manufacturing. Churchville Fire Equipment adds counties in central New York to its present territory of western New York State. Firematic Supply Company adds counties in north and east New York State in addition to its current territory of Connecticut and southeastern New York. Glick Fire Equipment expands to the northeast and now serves all counties in Pennsylvania. “Churchville Fire Equipment, Firematic Supply Company and Glick Fire Equipment are three top-tier organizations, and are among the most respected Pierce dealerships in North America,” said Jim Johnson, Oshkosh Corporation executive vice president and president, Fire & Emergency. “Over many years, all three companies have proven themselves with outstanding sales, service and after-the-sale support. Pierce is proud to expand the responsibilities of each in the region.” Founded in 1951, Churchville Fire Equipment has been a Pierce dealership for more than 40 years. An employee-owned company (including 95% current or former firefighters), Churchville Fire Equipment offers unmatched support and two state-of-the-art service facilities. This Pierce Service Brigade dealership features EVT certified mechanics, mobile service vehicles, metal fabrication equipment and a $500,000 replacement parts inventory. Visit
www.churchvillefire.com for more information. Firematic Supply Company has represented Pierce for 35 years and is the recipient of Pierce’s 2014 Service Dealer of the Year award. The company offers comprehensive customer support through a complete mechanical service center and a factory-authorized pump service center, factory trained mechanics, custom fabrication and design, comprehensive testing resources and an extensive parts inventory. Firematic’s staff is renowned for developing unique solutions to complex challenges. Visit www.firematic.com for more information. Glick Fire Equipment Company, Inc. has exclusively represented Pierce apparatus since 1998. The company provides the highest quality products and personalized service, with locations serving both eastern and western Pennsylvania. A Pierce Service Brigade dealership, Glick Fire Equipment is comprised of more than 58 team members including 22 factory-trained technicians of which 17 have achieved certified Pierce Master Technician level. The company offers mobile service capabilities from 11 full time road technicians, comprehensive customer training, and a $1,300,000 replacement parts inventory. Visit www.glickfire.com for more information.
FireNews.com
Fire News, August 2015, Page 25
New Rochelle Firefighters, Police Fundraise Over $40Gs Blowing all estimates out of the water, New Rochelle firefighters and police came together to more than double initial fundraising projections at the annual St. Baldrick’s head-shaving event. Thirty heads were shaved of the over 150 attendees, and over $42,000 (and still counting) was raised. Notable Shavees: • Ginny Escobedo — Pediatric oncology RN, Clinical and Research (and so much more) • Gina Arena — lost her son James "JimmyBoy" Arena 10 years ago • Dr. Claudio Sandoval — Shaved his head and raised money for event. • Dr. Sandovalis — Pediatric oncology. He treats children and also is involved in research. He is also a Professor of Pediatric oncology at The New York Medical College • Vincent Mercogliano — sports writer for the Journal News. He grew his hair for over a year. He shaved his head and donated the hair to Wigs for Kids. Emergency Services Standouts: • New Rochelle firefighter John Schroeder took the lead yet again to bring us a wildly successful event. • New Rochelle Firefighter Mike Yannuzzi picked this event to give the $5,000 Keith Morris award, which was to go to the charity of his choosing. - Fire News photos courtesy of Byron Gray, Pres., UFA 273
Page 26, Fire News, August 2015
Hudson Valley Parade - Fire News photos by John C. Miller and Vinnie Dominick
FireNews.com
FireNews.com
Fire News, August 2015, Page 27
Tanker Relay Testing
The East Greenbush Fire Department conducted a mutual aid tanker relay with Schodacks, Nassau, Hoags Corners, Castleton, Defreestville and Clinton Heights to determine if they could maintain a sustainable water flow to fight a fire at the Schodack Shopping Plaza. Tankers were filled at two hydrants, one in East Greenbush and one in Schodack. With 20 tankers in line, Chief Robert Lehmann was satisfied with the results, and happy that he could include a brand new pumper in the exercise. - Fire News photos by Martin E. Miller
Page 28, Fire News, August 2015
FireNews.com
Fuller Road’s Chief Weiss Honored On June 7, 2015, the Fuller Road Fire Department honored Chief William Weiss, Sr. He was a past-Chief and 50-year Life Member. Chief Weiss served his community as a volunteer with the Fuller Road Fire Department since 1954 and The Town of Colonie Emergencies Services Operations Car # 4 from 1972 to 1974. The Department would like to thank the Weiss family for sharing Chief Weiss with them, and to have enjoyed his friendship in the volunteer fire service of the Town of Colonie. - Fire News photo by Lori Washburn
OBITUARY
Maplewood’s First Chief, Joseph Hetko On May 9, 2015, the Maplewood Fire Department laid to rest their first chief. Chief Joseph Hetko and his brothers were instrumental in the creation of the Maplewood Fire Department in 1941. When it was first established, the department’s telephone and controls for blowing the siren were located in the chief’s house. The phones remained there until 1953. Chief Hetko, with his expertise in many areas, helped the department acquire equipment and eventually helped to erect the fire department building in 1949. Chief Hetko, who died at the age of 99, was a beloved member of the department and was recently honored for his years of service at the Old Timer’s Banquet in October 2014. - Fire News photo by Lori Washburn
FireNews.com
Fire News, August 2015, Page 29
Red Knights Americade Ride
The Red Knights Motorcycle Club Chapter 3 held its annual Americade Ride on June 3, 2015. This year’s event included 96 motorcycles and over 130 riders in the eight-hour event. Firefighters from New York; New Jersey; New Hampshire; Pennsylvania; Connecticut; Massachusetts; Vermont; Illinois; Florida; and Ontario, Canada; as well as the Nassau Fire Riders, participated. The event brings firefighters together to enjoy a day of camaraderie, meeting new people from around the country, all who share their love of riding. This year’s 226-mile ride included stops at two fire departments and ran through four covered bridges in northern New York. - Fire News photos by Lori Washburn
Page 30, Fire News, August 2015
FireNews.com
Lt. Joseph P. DiBernardo Seminar
The Lt. Joseph P. DiBernardo Memorial Foundation would like to thank everyone who participated and came out to support the Foundation on May 29-30, 2015. We hope to see everyone next year. Visit www.JoeyDFoundation.org for future seminars. -Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
The Official Publication of NYS Drill Teams