Fire News Long Island, September 2023

photo by Paul Mazza

All People Out at So. Farmingdale Blaze

Crews arrive to heavy fire throughout a Plitt Avenue home.

See story on page 10

Shirley Car Fire Extends

Ridge firefighters arrive to a car on fire and involving two more cars.

See story on page 14

Car Fire on Ocean Parkway

Wantagh firefighters respond to a car fire near Tobay Beach.

See story on page 23

Valley Stream’s 125th Anniversary

The Grand Marshall was Engine Company 4’s ex-Chief Richard Sullivan a 63-year member.

See story on page 69

Drill Results

Drills from Selden Invitational, Selden Jrs., N. Bellmore Invitational, Joe Hunter Memorial, Lindehurst Jrs.,

See stories on pages 73 to 77

Obituary

Great Neck Alert’s Zachary J.Lobodzic

See story on page 78

AService for Long Island Firefighters and EMS Heroes

Founded 1973

146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY11713

FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher

TIM EDWARDS, Chief Operating Officer

DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor

GARYP. JOYCE, Managing Editor

MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production/Sales

LYNN SEDLER, Art Director

CLIFFCHIESA, Production Manager

BARBARACONNOLLY, Vice President National Sales

SUZANNE BANCROFT, Business Development Manager

BRYAN LOPEZ, Editorial Assistant

GREG JONES, Graphic Artist

JEB LADOUCEUR, Publisher Emeritus

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Vinny Ammirati, Dennis Berger, Chris Brenner, Jeff Bressler, Kirk Candan, Amanda Coffey, Ed Coppa, Bill D'Alessandro, Jim Dunn, Larry Fox, Lee Genser, Bryan Gosik,Brian Grogan, Steve Grogan,Mike Guar ino, Stephanie Handshaw, Jack Healy, Michael Heller, Robert Holley, Cody Hoyle, Kevin Imm, John Ippolito, Tom Lambui, Richard Lewin, Bryan Lopez, Harry Loud, Kurt Ludwig, Brad M aier, John Mancino, Paul Mazza, Lou Minutoli, Ron Monteleone, Michael Murphy, Charles A. Murphy, Mike Oppedisano, John Neely, Robert O'Rourk, Kevin Parkan, Tom Pesce, Kevin Peterson, Jackson Pokress, Jerry Presta, Myles Quinn, Dave Rubin, Jim Rugen, AJ Ryan, Drew Silverman, Steve Silverman, Joe Sperber, Richard Stark, JoAnn Stephani, Brian Thomas, Ed Tuffy, Joe Vir gilio, Steve Walsh, Dennis Whittam, Cameron Wilken

COLUMNISTS: Jeff Bailes, Paul Hashagen, Bruce Johnson, John Salka, Billy Goldfeder, Bradley Pinksy, Tom Rinelli

COPYRIGHT2023, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEWYORK. ALLRIGHTS RESERVED For advertising rates and information, call (631) 776-0500 Press 3

Editorial: (631) 776-0500 Ext 281 Fax number: (631) 286-6866

Internet: http://www.firenews.com

e-mail: LI@firenews.com

Thirteen Editions, Sixteen States Serving Long Island, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington DC, West Virginia, and Wildwood, NJ

Proud Member Of:

51 Years of Excellence

As you know, Fire News is in its 51st yearof publication. If you have any stories, photos and good memories from the past, please send them to LI@FireNews.com.

NEW FEATURE NEW FEATURE

FDs STATEWIDE COULD BE OWED MILLIONS

The Long Island Benevolent Association (LIAFBA), has voted on a motion of President Don Holupka and Vice President Doug Miller, to commence an action, which is active in the New York State Court of Claims, requesting a multiple-yearretroactive accounting of the two- and three-percent foreign fire tax system and corrective measures going forward. For over a decade, the LIAFBAhas been in communication with state officials regarding the inaccuracies in the state’s street listing system, which is used to distribute the two- and three-percent money received from foreign fire insurance companies. This claim is intended to reconcile this self-reporting system to facilitate the total amount owed to each fire district.

Contact info formore information and to opt-in to this claim: LIAFBAVice President Blue Point FD Doug Miller631-335-2792; LIAFBAPresident Don Holupka Hewlett FD 516-316-5947; LIAFBAGeneral Counsel - Attorney Nick Miraglia, Esq.; Law office of Edmond Chakmakian 631232-6600; Law Office of Samantha L. Segal 646-942-0078.

VOLUNTEER FIRST RESPONDER HOUSINGACT

Congressman Andrew R. Garbarino introduced the Volunteer First Responder Housing Act, legislation to expand eligibility forqualified volunteeremergency responders to participate in certain federal housing programs.

Specifically, this bill would expand eligibility for the Single Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program through the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development and the Department of Housing and Urban Development. This loan Program assists approved lenders in providing loans to low and moderate income households to build, rehabilitate or improve a home in eligible rural areas. e located in a revitalization area. The full text of the bill and eligibility info can be found at https://t.ly/E8EBQ.

CONGRESS TO CUTAFG AND SAFER GRANTS? YOUR ACTION NEEDED!

The International Association of Fire Chiefs, the International Association of Fire

Fighters, the National Volunteer Fire Council, the Congressional Fire Services Institute, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, and the National Fire Protection Association all joined together in a unified voice to express outrage at recently proposed cuts to the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) and Staffing forAdequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) programs.

Our organizations call upon Congress to restore funding to these programs. Your support in amplifying our message would be invaluable.

Here is a link to their full statement: https://www.iafc.org/docs/default-source/ 1gr/fire-groups-statement-on-afg-and-safergrant-cuts.pdf.

Have you seen or read some interesting or informative news of interest to firefighters and first responders around the states?

Send or forward it to: frank@firenews.com

4 Fatalities in Massapequa 4-CarMVA

The Massapequa Fire Department responded to an MVAwith reported overturn and entrapment on westbound Sunrise Highway east of Unqua Road about 1920 on August 6, 2023. Third Assistant Chief McCaffrey was the first to respond and was advised that Nassau County Police were on scene requesting ambulances and extrication tools, forthwith, formultiple people trapped in multiple vehicles. Chief McCaffrey arrived and found a four-carMVAwith six people heavily trapped in an SUVand one person trapped in an overturned sub-compact SUV. Ladder636 arrived, and its crew immediately put all theirtools into operation, as did Squad 8 and two Nassau County Police ESUs. The driverof the sub-compact SUVwas quickly extricated from that vehicle. Due to the prolonged operation, Ladder632 was requested to the scene with all their tools. The crew of Engine 6315 had a precautionary line stretched as crews worked forover30 minutes to extricate five of the six people. The 60-year-old driverof the SUVwas pronounced dead at the

scene, his 13-year-old daughterand 10-year-old son were transported to hospitals, one by Nassau County Police helicopterand the otherby ambulance and both were pronounced dead. Asix-year-old granddaughterand 18-year-old stepdaughterwere transported with life-threatening injuries. The six-yearold succumbed to injuries six days later. A14-year-old son suffered non-life-threatening injuries. The 32-year-old male driverof the subcompact had serious injuries but was in stable condition. The 83-year-old male driverof a sedan was transported to a hospital and laterreleased. The male driverof a fourth vehicle refused medical attention. An early investigation by police showed the subcompact was traveling at high rate of speed when it hit the SUV, that then hit the sedan. Both were stopped at a red light. The driverof the sub-compact SUVwas laterarrested fordriving underthe influence among several othercharges.

- Fire News photos by Paul Mazza

Shirley House Fire

Babylon RVand Pickup Fire

The Babylon Fire Department was alerted fora vehicle fire at the CedarBeach Marina about 0530 on July 29, 2023. Assistant Chiefs Miga and Price responded and were given additional information that there was an RVon fire that was threatening othervehicles. The chiefs arrived to a fully involved RVand a pickup truck in the last spot of the camping ground. Engine 1-2-3 was followed by 1-2-4 who dropped a supply line to the engine and went to a boat launch to set up a drafting operation. Two lines were put into operation to extinguish the fire, Engine 1-2-6 shuttled theirwaterto 1-2-3 as did West Islip Engine 3-177 who was requested on mutual aid. The fire was brought undercontrol within 30 minutes. At the time of the fire there were a couple and two dogs in the RV; all exited safely and uninjured. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation by the Town of Babylon Fire Marshal.

The Ridge Fire Department and Suffolk Police responded to a house fire in the North Shirley area just after1445 on July 25, 2023. Mutual aid was provided by numerous surrounding fire and EMS agencies.

- Fire News photos by www.LiHotShots.smugmug.com

- Fire News photos by Paul Mazza

All Out at South Farmingdale Blaze

On the evening of August 9, 2023, the South Farmingdale Fire Department along with mutual aid companies operated on the scene of a fire on Plitt Avenue in the dead end off Graham Street. Firefighters put multiple handlines and one towerladderinto operation forheavy fire throughout a two-story private dwelling. Fortunately, all occupants made it safely out of the residence and there were no serious injuries. The cause of the fire was under investigation. All fire department units were underthe command of South Farmingdale First Assistant Chief McFarlane.

- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com and Paul Mazza

2 Injured in Dix Hills 2-Car with Fire

The Dix Hills Fire Department received a call foran MVAwith fire on Commack Road nearExpress Drive North just after2330 on August 3, 2023. Upon arrival, a two-caraccident with one vehicle on fire was discovered. Engine 2-8-14 was first on scene and quickly deployed an 1-3/4 inch attack line to extinguish the fire. Under the command of Chief of Department Tepe, crews secured both vehicles while EMS evacuated two people fortransport to an area hospital.

- Fire News photos by Evan Rolla

Standby Crews Catch Some Action

On August 6, 2023, at 0520, crews standing by forthe Brentwood Fire Department were dispatched to a commercial building fire on Brentwood Road. Upon arrival, heavy smoke was visible from a gas station. Farmingville Engine 5-18-5 and Jamesport Engine 6-1-2 stretched handlines while Islip Ladder3-4-11 searched forthe fire, which was located in a back room. Mutual aid came from Bay Shore and Central Islip. Underthe command of Chief Jared Gunst, the fire was extinguished without incident.

- Fire News photos by Evan Rolla and Paul Mazza

East Northport Fire

The East Northport Fire Department responded to a house fire on 5th Avenue in East Northport on August 6, 2023, at 1930. Radiant heat caused damage to a neighbor’s home on North 5th Street. Luckily all the occupants were able to escape. Mutual aid came from Commack, Greenlawn and Northport; Kings Park and Eaton’s Neck stood by. - Fire News photos by Joseph Sperber

Shirley CarFire Extends

Authorities responded to a reported car fire on Birch Hollow Drive nearAstor Drive on August 7, 2023. The Ridge Fire Department and Suffolk Police were both dispatched. The first officerarrived to a fully engulfed carin the driveway of a private residence. Two othervehicles caught fire due to exposure issues from the original carfire. One of the vehicles’ gas tanks ruptured and spewed gasoline, which hampered extinguishment. There were no reported injuries.

- Fire News photos by www.LiHotShots.smugmug.com

North Amityville Trucks on Fire

a

Lincoln Street

0300

a

The North Amityville Fire Company was called formultiple vehicles on fire in

lot on

about

on August 9, 2023. Second Assistant Chief Rhoden arrived to two fully involved tree service trucks loaded with logs, that were threatening othervehicles and in close proximity to a house. Chief Rhoden requested one engine form Copiague to protect that exposure. Engine 1-7-10 had

several-hundred-foot stretch to the yard. Crews used three lines and it took about 30 minutes to extinguish the fire. Utility Truck 17-9, Ambulances 1-7-8 and 5-41 and-Medic 1 also responded. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation by the Town of Babylon Fire Marshal and Suffolk County Police Arson Squad.

- Fire News photos by Paul Mazza

N. Bellmore LLShed Burns

The North Bellmore Fire Department was alerted fora building fire at the intersection of Bellmore Avenue and Logue Street about 0105 on July 28, 2023. Chief of Department Zaharis arrived to heavy smoke coming from a two-story storage shed at GuntherField. The crew of Engine 654 stretched the first line to the building. Ladder658 set up next to the building. That crew began making entry, searches and venting. The crew from Engine 655 stretched and operated a second line. The fire was located on the first floorand extended to second floorand went through the roof. The fire was brought undercontrol in about an hour. Mutual aid came from North Merrick and Bellmore; Wantagh, Merrick, and Seaford stood by at North Bellmore Company 1. This building housed the North Bellmore-North Merrick Little League equipment. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza and K2MPhotography.com

Massapequa Basement Fire

At about 1735 on August 5, 2023, Massapequa Fire Department Third Assistant Chief McCaffrey was responding to a rescue call when he noticed smoke coming from the eaves of a two-story splitlevel home on Denise Street. He made entry into the home, and found that nobody was inside and located a fire in the basement. Chief of Department Monjardo arrived and took command. Engine 6314 dropped two lines at the house and went to a hydrant. Ladder 632 and Ladder636 arrived and both crews began laddering, searching and venting the home. All searches were negative. The

fire was knocked down in about 30 minutes with slight extension to the second floor. Amityville Ladder1-1-5, which was requested as a working truck, set up behind 632 and that crew assisted in opening the eaves to check forextension. Mutual aid came from Amityville, South Farmingdale and Bethpage. There was one minorinjury to a firefighterand the cause of the fire was underinvestigation by the Nassau County Fire Marshal.

- Fire News photos by Paul Mazza and www.OverTheEdgePhotography.com

- Fire News photos by Evan Rolla

- Fire News photos by Richard Stark

- Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com and www.OverTheEdgePhotography.com

- Fire News photos by Jack McNamara, FC-16A

- Fire News photos provided by Chief Bloomfield; submitted by Kevin Regan, PIO

- Fire News photos by www.LiHotShots.smugmug.com

- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com and FirstOnScenePhotos.com

- Fire News photo by Jeremy Walters

- Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

- Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com

- Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

- Fire News photos by Paul Mazza

- Jeff Tasch, Hendrickson Fire and Rescue Equipment

- Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com

- Fire News photo by Evan Rolla

SUVinto Creek in Massapequa

1 Fatality, 3 Injured in Wyandanch Head-on

- Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

The Massapequa Fire Department and Nassau County Police responded to an accident at Linden Street and Lakeshore Boulevard at 1000 on July 13, 2023. First Assistant Chief Friedland was the first to respond. An elderly female driverin a mid-size SUVreportedly stepped on the acceleratorinstead of the brake pedal and struck a bicyclist in a crosswalk. The driverthen went off the road and through a fence and landed in the waterof the Massapequa Preserve. Ladder632, Ambulance 637 and First Responder6399 responded. Nassau County Police Ambulances 2357, 2396, Emergency Services and multiple patrol officers also responded. The driverwas removed from the vehicle priorto units arriving with non-life-threatening injuries. The bicyclist was transported by Ambulance 637 and the driverwas transported by Nassau County Police Ambulance 2396 to Nassau University Medical Center. The vehicle was removed from the watera short time laterby a heavyduty tow truck.

Wantagh MVA

The Wyandanch Fire Company, Wyandanch-Wheatley Heights Ambulance Corps and Suffolk County Police responded to an accident on Long Island Avenue between South 20th and South 21st streets about 0030 on July 16, 2023. Units arrived and found a head-on collision involving a sedan and an SUV. Both drivers were trapped, and there were fourpeople injured. The fire crews and Suffolk Police ESU put multiple tools into operation to extricate the drivers from both vehicles in about 20 minutes. The injured were taken to Good Samaritan University Hospital and South Shore University Hospital. One person who was transported to South Shore University Hospital was pronounced dead a time later. The East Farmingdale Fire Company was requested forone ambulance to the scene. The cause of the accident was underinvestigation.

E-BikerFatality on Lakeland Ave.

On July 22, 2023, the Bohemia Fire Department, and Community Ambulance Company responded to an MVAinvolving an E-biker on Lakeland Avenue, just north of Veterans Memorial Highway. The female bikerwas rushed to South Shore University Hospital via Community Ambulance. She died at the hospital. Suffolk Police were investigating.

- Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

Wantagh firefighters responded to a three-carMVAon Wantagh Avenue and the Southern State Parkway exit ramp. The accident occurred July 17, 2023, at around 1400, and caused minorinjuries to three persons.

- Fire News photo by Harry Loud

- Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez

Smithtown 3-Car

The Smithtown Fire Department and Suffolk Police responded to a three-carMVAat the intersection of Jericho Turnpike and Meadow Road in Smithtown on August 2, 2023, at 1815. Two of the occupants were injured including one who had to be removed using

hydraulic extrication equipment. Smithtown Fire Ambulance transported the injured to Saint Catherine’s Hospital.

- Fire News photo by Joseph Sperber

Valley Stream 2-Carwith Rollover

The Valley Stream Fire Department responded along with Nassau County Police and EMS to a two-vehicle MVAwith rolloveron Rockaway Parkway nearDoverStreet on the morning of August 5,

NearHead-on in Manorville

Anearhead-on crash closed South Street, between Rosewood Lane and Wading RiverRoad, in Manorville on August 18, 2023. The cars were found approximately 500 feet apart afterthe collision.

The Manorville Fire Department, Manorville Ambulance, Stony Brook Ambulance, and SCPD responded.

- Fire News photos by www.LiHotShots.smugmug.com

Brentwood 3-CarMVA

At 1100 on May 30, 2023, the Brentwood Fire Department was dispatched to an MVAwith overturn on Express Drive North and Wicks Road. Units arrived to a three-carMVAwith one vehicle that had overturned and was upright with a negative pin. Firefighters from E2 and R18 secured all vehicles and the fuel spill while EMS evaluated fourpatients. Captain Aranda had command of the scene.

- Fire News photos by Evan Rolla

North Bellmore Installation 2023

The North Bellmore Fire Department held its annual installation dinneron the night of June 17, 2023, at The Bayview in Freeport. North Bellmore Fire CommissionerEdward J. Kraus was the masterof ceremonies forthe program which began with the salute to the flag, the invocation, and welcoming remarks. The Department’s auxiliary, corporate and line officers were installed and were followed by the chiefs of the North Bellmore Fire Department. Presentations were made to several members of the department. These presentations included now ex-Chief ArthurWhite III being recognized forhis time served in office, service stars, scholarship award winners, and firematic awards. Leading the North Bellmore Fire Department this yearin its 100th yearof service will be Chief of Department Nicholas Zaharis, First Assistant Chief Kaitlyn Bazarewski, Second Assistant Chief Joseph Capuano, and Third Assistant Chief Thomas J. White.

- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com

Continued on next page

Fully Involved on Arrival in Mastic Beach

On August 15, 2023, the Brookhaven Fire Department along with numerous area departments worked an early morning house fire on Pineway Avenue nearClaremont Drive in Mastic Beach. The house was fully engulfed upon arrival, and sections of the dwelling had collapsed. This alarm came in while anotherfire was being battled in Mastic, with numerous mutual aid companies committed to the original Mastic alarm. Brookhaven 1st Assistant Chief Giuseppe Loiacono was the first to arrive at the fully involved structure. The cause of the blaze was underinvestigation.

- Fire News photos by www.LiHotShots.smugmug.com

New HQ forMineola

On June 17, 2023, the Mineola Fire Department held a dedication ceremony for the new Fire Headquarters on Jericho Turnpike. Hundreds of department members, friends, families, dignitaries and neighboring departments were in attendance. Aftera presentation of the colors, the ceremony began with a historical account of Mineola’s Fire Headquarters throughout the years. MayorPereria then presented the keys to the Village of Mineola to formerMayor Scott Strauss forhis dedication to the project during his term as Mayoras well as ex-Chief Andrew Martone, Jr., forleading the project, beginning when he was 1st Assistant Chief. Numerous local officials, including Nassau County Chief Fire Marshal Uttaro and

Nassau County Police CommissionerRyder, shared theirremarks before the official ribbon cutting ceremony and champagne christening of the new Fire Headquarters. Housing Engine 1 and Truck 2. The new headquarters features many state-of-the-art

features including a negative pressure room forturnout gearstorage and an indoortraining area. - Fire News photos by www.OverTheEdgePhotography.com and K2MPhotography.com continued on next page

Williston Park Rollover

The Williston Park Fire Department responded afterthe driverof this vehicle struck a parked carand rolled overon Sheridan Avenue

in Williston Park on August 7, 2023. County police and EMS were also on the scene. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

West Hempstead Rollover

The West Hempstead Fire Department responded to an MVAwith rolloveron Hempstead Avenue nearWalton Street on August 13, 2023. Only minorinjuries were reported.

- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

Commack MVAThru Building

The Suffolk Police, Commack Fire Department and Commack Ambulance responded to an MVAin which a carcrashed through the Craft Shoe store in a strip of stores on Jericho Turnpike in Commack, on June 8, 2023, at 1435. The driverapparently lost control of and went through the store, which was occupied by employ-

ees and several customers. Luckily nobody was seriously injured. Huntington Town Fire Marshal and building department representatives were on scene investigating the integrity of the building.

- Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber

Mineola Installation and Awards Dinner

On June 10, 2023, the Mineola Fire Department held theirannual installation dinnerat the Floral Terrace in Floral Park. Master of Ceremonies Joseph Monez began the evening with the presentation of the colors and a salute to the flag led by ex-Chief Brian Santosus. Following the Invocation by Deacon Thomas Rich, the company captains, lieutenants and department officers were sworn in by MayorPaul Pereira. Second Assistant Chief Fernandez and 1st Assistant Chief Strauss were next to be sworn in surrounded by theirfamilies, before Chief Domingos Magalhaes was led in by pipes and drums and sworn in as the newest Chief of Department. In addition to the installation of officers, outgoing Chief of Department Martone, Jr., was honored forhis years in the Chiefs Office. Numerous members received theirpins forreaching various anniversary milestones before the Ladies Auxiliary Award was presented to Marla Franz, and the Firefighterof the YearAward was posthumously presented to FirefighterStephen Stolarik, Jr., with his family present to receive the award. Congratulations to all installed officers and individuals honored fortheirservice.

- Fire News photos by www.OverTheEdgePhotography.com

Tim Farrell Memorial Golf Classic

On June 20, 2023, the Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund hosted the Tim Farrell Memorial Golf Classic at the Stonebridge Country Club in Smithtown. The annual tournament fundraiserwas sold out

once again and the golfers enjoyed a beautiful day on the course. - Fire News photos by Ryan Knowles and Bryan Lopez

Historical Southampton Awards Night

The Southampton Fire Department held its annual banquet on June 3, 2023. It was an amazing night. Ex-Chief Alfred Callahan and current Chiefs Manny Escobar, Polis Walkerand Richard Fowlerhanded out the coveted 2022 awards. Officerof the Yearwent to Agawam Hose Company Captain Tara Collins. Tara is a 12-year memberof the department and has made over 900 calls overhertwo years as Captain. The Firefighterof the Year award went to Southampton Hook and LaddermemberKelly Gang. Kelly is an 18-year memberof the department. Kelly is one of the first to the firehouse when the tones drop to drive the rescue truck orthe new Ladder Truck Unit 7-3-16. She is always there when the department orher company requests help. Kelly is a true asset. History was made in the Southampton Fire Department in 2022 when both Firefighter of the Yearand Officerof the Yearwent to female firefighters, an outstanding accomplishment forboth women.

- Story submitted by ex Chief Chris Brenner Sr. PIO; photo submitted by SFD

Emergency Decon Donates to FFCancerSupport

On June 16, 2023, Emergency Decon Services presented a donation of $5,000 to the FirefighterCancerSupport Network at the New York State Association of Fire Chief’s Conference in Syracuse. Left to right: Ron Matros, Jerry Owenburg, Robert Sutton, Richard Gross, Thomas Riedel, Tony Cruz and Kathy Corbett.

- Fire News story and photo submitted by Sue Orlando, Bohemia FD

Suffolk County Parade in Riverhead

On July 8, 2023, fire departments from across Suffolk County marched in the 150th Suffolk County VolunteerFiremen’s Association Parade hosted by the Riverhead Fire Department. Riverhead Fire Department ex-Captain Robert Kujawski (58-year

member) and Riverhead FirefighterConrad Dabrowski (56-year member.) were the Grand Marshals forthe parade.

- Fire News photos by Tim Edwards

Fire News Joins Suffolk Credit Union to Support Military Families

The Back-to-School Brigade is an annual nation-wide campaign by Operation Homefront (operationhomefront.org) that collects and distributes school supplies to eligible dependents of America’s servicemen and women. Through the assistance program, and with the help of Suffolk Credit Union, military children receive free ba ck-toschool supplies, including backpacks, to help start the school year on the right foot. This program is a crucial resource formilitary families who may face financial hardship orotherchallenges as they navigate the back-to-school season. Pictured are the Fire News staff

WWPCycling Tour

On July 15, 2023, over 40 Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) warriors cycled through the streets of the Hamptons. Hundreds of community riders surrounded the peloton as they rode 25 miles through Amagansett, Sag Harbor and East Hampton. This was the third and final day of a three-day adaptive cycling event for injured veterans.

Alarge, local community fundraiser for Wounded Warrior Project and the top individual fundraiser: Timothy Bowler and Top team fundraiser: CGC Cycling for Great Causes. The Amagansett Fire Department hosted the start and finish.

The Wounded Warrior Project Soldier Ride helps warriors build their confidence and strength through shared physical activities and bonds of service in a supportive environment. Soldier Ride began in 2004 when Long Island native Chris Carney cycled more than 5,000 miles from the Hamptons to San Diego to raise awareness for wounded warriors.

- Fire News photos courtesy of Richard Lewin

holding a sample of some of the supplies donated by the staff. (Left to right): PublisherFrank C. Trotta, Vice President of Finance Mary Alice Graham, Business Development ManagerSuzanne Bancroft, Chief Operating Officerand Executive EditorTim Edwards, Graphic Artist Greg Jones, Managing EditorGary P. Joyce, VPNational Sales Barbara Connolly and Special Projects ManagerPatti Niebling.

- Fire News photo by Marie Trotta, VPProduction & Sales

50 Years forNassau Firecom

August 3, 1973, Nassau Fire Communications first signed on the air. This August 3, 2023, a large group of retirees stopped by the current Firecom to mark the 50th anniversary. From left to right including department they are from and dispatcherand orsupervisornumbers are: Chuck Albers, Franklin Square Fire Department, ex 38/11; Danny Gilloon, East Rockaway, 31; Robert Fitzgerald, Lawrence

Cedarhurst, 20; Paul Walters, East Williston, 62; Doug Wood, East Meadow, 7/3; Robert Sutton, Oceanside, 22/8; Paul Simon, East Meadow, 15/7; Gerry Gagliano, Hicksville, 41/12; Timothy Placilla, Bayville, 46/6/1; Timmy Wade, Port Washington, 32; Charlie Parker, Valley Stream, 12/4; and Ian Rogers, Westbury, 18.

- Fire News photo by Mike Capoziello

ON THE ROAD

Out of Town Visit

By Harry Loud

It’s nice to visit fire departments when you’re out of town on vacation. The area is different, the equipment is different, the SOPis different but the firefighters are basically the same.

My wife’s family all live in Louisiana so the week of May 8, 2023, saw us visiting. My first non-family stop was to visit the Lacomb Fire Department which is on the north side of Lake Pontchartrain outside of New Orleans. It’s actually called Saint Tammany Fire District 3 and is protected by three fire stations: 31, 32 and 33.

According to Chief Patrick Sicard they run about 2000 calls a year, of which approximately 80 percent are EMS runs. The department is paid and is protected by five firefighters per day manning the three stations. Mutual aid is readily available should the need arise in the primarily residential community.

They utilize Ferrera equipment which consists of two tanker/pumpers (3000 gallons), one 4200 gallon tanker/tender, one heavy rescue and an ambulance.

My next stop was to the Slidell Fire Department which is also north of New Orleans and east of Lacomb. Abigger

town, Slidell does approximately 10,100 runs per year and is protected by eight firehouses with a ninth in the works. They protect a 186-square-mile district with 65 of that being wetlands.

I visited the Saint Tammany Fire Protection District 1, A.J. Champagne Fire Station 11. There I spoke with Captain Roy Smith, Operator (MPO) Ryan Gonzalez and Firefighter Tyler Sanders who was detailed to the rescue for the tour. Captain Smith had 22-years in the department and is scheduled to be promoted to Deputy Chief. The department consists of six battalions, has a chief of department, three deputy chiefs and 200 firefighters. They too run a lot of EMS, have two railroads that run through town and some haz-mat and commercial concerns, mainly taxpayers and malls.

They utilize a variety of manufacturers but the equipment consist of Four 1000 gallon pumper/engines, four 500-gallon quints, a 105-foot aerial (with another on order), one heavy rescue, one haz-mat unit, two tankers/water tenders and ambulances.

This interview concluded with the three jumping on Rescue to take in an EMS run.

Nassau County and 4th Bn. Parade

On July 15, 2023, Chief of Department Scott Mohr, 1st Assistant Chief Anthony Rugolo, 2nd Assistant Chief Patrick Healey and the Rockville Centre Fire Department hosted the annual Nassau Count y Parade and 4th Battalion Parade.

Nassau County Parade 2023

Best Appearing Fire Department Overall: 1st Place Oceanside NY Fire Department; 2nd Place Island Park Fire Department; and 3rd Place North Bellmore Fire Department.

Best Appearing Fire Department- Class C: 1st Place - Oceanside NY Fire Department; 2nd Place - Freeport Fire Department; and 3rd PlaceValley Stream Volunteer Fire Department.

Best Appearing Fire Department- Class B: 1st Place - North Bellmore Fire Department.

Best Appearing Fire Department - Class A: 1st Place - Island Park Fire Department; 2nd Place - North Merrick Fire Department; and 3rd Place - Lakeview Fire Department.

Best Appearing Fire Department Drill Team: 1st Place - Bayville

Fire Company No. 1, Inc. Drill Team; and 2nd Place Point Lookout Lido FD Drill Team.

Best Appearing Fire Department Juniors Class A:1st Place - New Hyde Park Fire Department; and 2nd Place - Great Neck Alert Fire Company.

Best Appearing Commercial Musical Unit: 1st Place - Nassau County Police Emerald Society Pipe Band; 2nd Place - West Islip Brewer s; and 3rd Place - NYPD Marching Band.

Fourth Battalion Parade 2023

Best Appearing Fire Department: 1st Place - Lynbrook Fire Department; 2nd Place - Rockville Centre Fire Department; and 3 rd Place - Lakeview Fire Department.

Best Appearing Fire Department Juniors: 1st Place- Lynbrook Fire Department Juniors; and 2nd Place - Rockville Centre Fire Depar tment Juniors

Best Appearing Commercial Musical Unit: NYPD Marching Band.

- Fire News photos by Tim Ellison

Up Close & Personal

(Left) Chief of Department F. Vasquez at a recent house fire in East Brentwood.

- Fire News photo by Evan Rolla

(Right) Westbury Firefighter Nixon taking a breatherat a recent working fire in Hicksville.

- Fire News photo by www.overtheedgephotography.com

Glen Cove EMS Lieutenant Doherty and EMTZino at a recent working fire in Glen Cove.

- Fire News photo by www.overtheedgephotography.com

On June 27, 2023 SenatorSteve Rhoads was on hand at the South Farmingdale Fire Department to swearin EMTEhsan Elminabawy. Ehsan was drawn to the department afterseeing them at a recent RecruitNYevent.

- Fire News photo by Jeffrey Tasch; Comm. So. Farmingdale FD

Congratulations to South Farmingdale JuniorFirefighter Brian Quiren who completed Camp Fahrenheit 516. - Fire News photo provided

Camp Fahrenheit 516 Graduates Camp

The Nassau County Fire Service Academy’s Camp Fahrenheit 516 is an annual week-long event that gives juniors and Explorers from overtwo dozen Nassau County fire departments the opportunity to get first-hand experience through classroom work and hands-on scenarios. July 27, 2023, was day fourof five forthis year’s camp and was also a media day. Representatives from News 12, Fox5, and

Firehouse Magazine and othermedia outlets came to see the camp and to help get the word out about the hard work these kids are putting in and the need fornew volunteers across the Nassau County fire service. This year’s camp concluded on July 28, 2023, with a graduation ceremony in Plainview.

- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com

Patriotism on Parade

Members of the Sound Beach Fire Department and theirJunior Company participated in the annual Port Jefferson Independence Day Parade. SBFD and its members have taken part in this parade since the department’s organization on July 4, 1930.

So. Farmingdale Auction a Hit

On June 17, 2023, over300 people packed the South Farmingdale Fire Department to take part in theirannual auction. It was a great night with tons of community involvement. Agood time was had by all.

- Fire News photo courtesy of Marc Francois

- Fire New photo courtesy Jeff Tasch, Comm. So. Farmingdale FD

SCVFAScholarship Winners

Members of the Suffolk County VolunteerFirefighter’s Association (SCVFA) Executive Board with the recipients and families of the 2023 John Masem, Sr., Scholarship recipients. Congratulations to Jack Owenburg, grandson of Jerry Owenburg of the West Babylon

Fire Department, and Juliana Holtje, granddaughterof Warren Holtje of the Hauppauge Fire Department.

- Fire News photo by Vinny Ammirati

Valley Stream’s 125th Anniversary

On August 5, 2023, the Valley Stream Fire Department hosted a parade in celebration of the Departments 125th Anniversary. The Grand Marshal of the parade was ex-Chief Richard Sullivan, a 63yearmemberfrom Engine Company 4. Members from surrounding departments along with departments as faraway as Medford and Carmel also participated in the parade to show theirsupport. Nassau Hook & LadderCompany 1 was organized in August 1898

before being combined with othercompanies to form the Valley Stream Fire Department. The current firehouse on South Corona Avenue, although modified to accommodate modern day apparatus, is the original firehouse used since 1901. Congratulations to the Valley Stream Fire Department and Nassau Hook and Ladder Company 1 on 125 years of service to the Village of Valley Stream!

- Fire News photos by www.OverTheEdgePhotography.com

Terryville FD to the SCPD

The photo (left) is Kellie Znaniecki at the 2002 Mega Show. Kellie was three-years old and loved the fire department. She became a juniorfirefighterwith the Terryville Fire Department from 14 until she left forcollege. The photo of Kellie (above) was herfirst day at the Suffolk Police 7th Precinct in July 2022. Both hermom and dad and her cousins are members of the Terryville Fire Department. - 2002 image by Dennis Whittam; uniformed photo provided by Debbie Znaniecki

South Country Ambulance Awards

Following are the names of recipients of 2022 Department Awards, which were presented at their annual dinner on July 15, 2023.

Memberof the Year - Wayne Caldicott; Advanced Life Support Providerof the Year - Rachel Fassman; Basic Life Support Provider of the Year - Rosalina Giaquinto; Rookie of the Year - Taha “TJ” Falah; and Police Officerof the Year: Bernard Hoyt.

Top Five Responders - Rachel Fassman; Taha “TJ” Falah; Brian Gilligan; Nicholas Boss; and Crystal Fernandez.

Longevity Awards

5 Years: Marissa Crosby; Gregory C. Miglino III; Zachary Sukdeo; Madison Stines; and Hana Mackin.

10 Years: Rachel Fassman and Christopher Anteri.

15 Years: Brett Nangle.

25 Years: Amy Thomas and Luis Salinas.

50 Years: Peter Caliendo.

- Fire News story by CoD Gregory C. Miglino, Jr.; photos courtesy of Vincent Gavin

FIREHOUSE EXPO PREVIEW: MORE LESSONS LEARNED, VOLUNTEER DAYS, ‘AFAMILYBUSINESS’

If you haven’t joined us in Columbus at this point for Firehouse Expo and experienced all that the city offers, know that an article in Forbes Magazine called Columbus a “hidden gem” and touted its diverse food and art scenes and highlighted unique offerings of the country's 14th largest city. We continue to partner with Columbus Division of Fire, the Ohio Fire Academy and departments throughout Central Ohio to provide unique training opportunities with top national instructors.

Schedule Change forFirst Day

To add more educational opportunities to Wednesday happenings, we updated the day’s schedule. Three groups of sessions will be offered between 0800-1230. There will be a break for lunch and then the opening ceremonies will begin at 1400, including awards and the keynote address. The day then will transition to the exhibit floor, where there will be a welcome reception, a Tailboard Talk and a roundtable.

New Classes

This year’s expanded classroom schedule includes the return of popular classes and instructors along with a variety of new instructors and topics.

We are excited to have David Decker, who is the host of the wellknown @CommandVisionFire channel on YouTube, bring his sessions to Firehouse Expo this year. Many of you have ridden virtually with him now you can attend his class, “Incident Command: Defin ing the Expectation.”

Firehouse Magazine Engine Essentials columnist Jonathan Hall will bring his popular article on apartment fires to life in his new session, “Engine Company Operations at Apartment Fires.”

Robert Policht will help attendees look at current RITneeds and deployment practices to assess their own needs in “RIT? FAST? RIC? WHO?”

Are you prepared to use your department’s drone? During “Flying into a New Era: Building a Drone Program and Utilization in the Fire Service,” Christopher Yoch will explain his department’s drone program, from concept, to equipment, to deployment at fires, for searches for missing people, and at large-scale incidents for victim search and responder safety.

VolunteerDays

Firehouse Expo will offer special programs for volunteer firefighters with a special discounted rate of $75 registration for either Wednesday or Friday. Sessions those days include tactics and leadership, training, and best practices for recruitment and retentio n. There also will be roundtables regarding various volunteer-focused topics.

Don’t miss “CPR for the Volunteer Fire Service,” a program with Ohio Fire Academy Fire Chief Jack Smith and Candice McDonald, who is the deputy CEO of the National Volunteer Fire Council.

Brandon Fletcher will deliver two sessions, including “AFG Strategies for Success,” which will walk attendees through the process of writing grants for the Assistance to Firefighter Grants program from FEMA.

Shawn Corder will detail his crew’s near-miss when members became disoriented and separated on the second floor of the church and were running low on air as heavy fire conditions threatened their lives inside. He will share what happened and what you need to train on now in his session, “Out of Air, Can YOU Make It to Safety?”

Various factors led to veteran fire instructor Ragan Underwood being trapped by a unilateral flow path after he evacuated his students during a live fire training exercise. Join Underwood in his session, “I Was Not Ready for This!” will explain what happened that day.

Pre-conference Workshops

Our in-depth pre-conference workshops will allow participants to take a deep dive into leadership, tactics and the human side of firefighting, among other topics.

Getting out with the crew in your first-due always creates great discussions between members, and Firehouse Expo’s “Walking Columbus: Talking Tactics and Construction” will bring together a group of veteran fire instructors and attendees to discuss building construction and tactics. Join Columbus Division of Fire’s legendary Capt. (ret.) Greg Lash, Firefighter Nelvin Young and their cadre as they take you on a full-day tour of Columbus to look at myriad types of buildings to understand size-up, construction, and strategies and tactics. Registration is limited, so sign-up today.

This new class conference includes several “Thru-the-Lock, the

Not-So Forcible Entry Method” with John Hayowyk, Jr., Battalion Chief (ret.), City of Passaic Fire Department.

Life Safety, incident stabilization and property conservation a re the three incident priorities we follow in the fire service. At every incident, these priorities must be maintained. One of the many tasks firefighters must be proficient in is forcible entry. The Thru-the-Lock method of forcible entry conserves property damage while obtaining the goal of gaining entry. This method is utilized when life safety and property conservation come together to make access to buildings and homes for a vast array of incident responses. When seconds count and lives hang in the balance, it takes trained professionals to do their job and get it done right. Thru-the-Lock has proven effective to access patients, making entry for water flow activation, as well as ma intaining door control for smoke conditions. An additional benefit of Thruthe-Lock is the ability to secure the entry point upon terminat ion of the incident. Thru-the-Lock is a skill every firefighter needs in their proverbial toolbox.

Fire departments across the country face many challenges in the post-COVID-19 era, including leadership changes, culture issues and exhaustion, which all can bring down morale in firefighters. Join Charleston, SC, Fire Chief Dan Curia and Assistant Chief David Griffin (author of Firehouse’s Leadership Lessons column) for “The Morale Dilemma,” as they show how to guide a department forward by reevaluating its culture, examining leadership, and setting goals and timelines to boost the morale and make the organization mor e successful.

Find the full list of pre-conference workshops here: firehouseexpo.com/2023/workshops. You must preregister for these four- and eight-hour workshops, so do it today.

HENDRICKSON WELCOMES STEVE MACKIN

Hendrickson is excited to announce a new addition to our sales and support team! Join us in welcoming Steve Mackin to the Hendrickson family.

Steve has 20 years of experience working with emergency response agencies in the New York-Metro area supporting best-in-class products. We look forward to Steve utilizing his many years of experience in the fire industry

and building long-standing relationships with our valued customers.

Steve volunteers with the Bellport Fire Department and currently serves as a Commissioner for the Fire District. Reach out anytime to Steve via smackin@hendricksonfire.com or directly at 631-987-3177.

Selden Invitational Drill

June 24, 2023

1stIslip Wolves21

2ndW. Sayville Flying Dutchman20

3rdN. Lindenhurst

Piston Knockers15

4thCentral Islip Hoboes14

5thFarmingville Bandits12

- Fire News photos by Kim Versheck

Selden Junior Invitational Drill

June 25, 2023

1stBay Shore Jr. Redskins 35.5

2nd Lindenhurst Jr. Snails28

3rdIslip Jr. Wolves19

4thHagerman Jr. Gamblers18.5

5thW. Sayville Jr. Flying Dutchmen17.5

- Fire News photos by Kim Versheck

North Bellmore Invitational

June 10, 2023

1stIslip Wolves31

2nd Central Islip Hoboes23

3rdW. Sayville

Flying Dutchmen11

4thN. Lindenhurst

Piston Knockers9

5th N. Bellmore Rinky Dinks8

- Fire News photos by Kim Versheck

Joe Hunter Memorial Drill

June 29, 2023

1stCentral Islip Hoboes27.5

2ndIslip Wolves21.5

3rdN. Lindenhurst Piston Knockers17

4thN. Bellmore Rink Dinks12

5thW. Hempstead Westerners10

5thFarmingville Bandits10

- Fire News photos by Bill D’Alessandro

Lindenhurst Junior Invitational Drill

June 4, 2023

1stLindenhurst Jr. Snails42

2ndBay Shore Jr. Redskins29

3rd Islip Jr. Wolves17

4thCentral Islip Jr. Hoboes15.5

5thHagerman Jr. Gamblers14

- Fire News photos by Kim Versheck

Great Neck Alert’s Zachary J. Lobodzic

On the morning of August 4, 2023, a synagogue service was held at Tempel Beth-El in Great Neck for Great Neck Alert Fire Company former trustee and 47-year member Zachary J. Lobodzic who passed away on August 2, 2023, at the age of 65 following a battle with September 11-related cancer.

At the Friday morning service Cantor Davis along with family and friends spoke about Zachary and his love for family, helping others, and being a member of the Great Neck Alert Fire Company.

Zachary worked for the Village of Kings Point for 32 years and retired last year as the Supervisor

of Labor. He came from a small family and married his wife Deborah in Tempel Beth-El. The two were married for nearly 40 years at the time of Zach’s passing and had a daughter, Jennifer. Interment followed the synagogue service at Mount Hebron Cemetery in Queens.

- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com