Carman firefighters battled a twoalarm fire on Wagner Road after multiple calls were received.
See story on page 6
Whitestone Blaze
Araging fire consumed a large private dwelling in the Whitestone section of Queens.
See story on page 9
Blooming Grove MVA
The Washingtonville Fire Department was alerted for an MVAwith injuries.
See story on page 14
Arlington Apartment Fire
Firefighters arrived to one apartment well-off with an extension into the roof area.
See story on page 18
New City Car Fire
The New City Fire Department responded to a working car fire.
See story on page 20
Winona Lake Car Show
Winona Lake Engine Company held their 8th annual car show.
of the Month
Back
See story on page 32
Serving Fire & EMS Heroes Since 1973
FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher/CEO
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Columnists: Bruce Johnson, John Salka
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Reaching 17 States with 14 Editions
Long Island, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, S. Carolina, Virginia, Washington DC, West Virginia, and Wildwood, NJ
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Proud Member Of:
Fire News National Award Winners Honored
Heroic FFof the Year:
Brockport’s Jose L. Medina
Fire News is pleased to announce the winner of the 2023 Fire News National Award for Heroic Firefighter of the Year to Jose L. Medina. Jose is the District Fire Chief at the Brockport Fire District. He received the award
due to his brave actions and service to the community when he did not think twice when placing himself in harm’s way while approaching a vehicle engulfed in flames to save a victim.
After personnel arrived to the scene, it took them only six minutes to extricate the victim due to Medina’s quick thinking and the assistance of others.
The Brockport Volunteer Firefighters Association held their Annual Banquet and Awards Ceremony where a welcome addition to the program was the presentation of the Fire News National Award for Heroic Firefighter of the Year to Chief Jose L. Medina. Over 130 people; friends and family, local and state officials were all present when Association President Ron Sabernick read from the plaque provided by Fire News and regaled the story of how Chief Medina rescued a man from a burning vehicle with only moments to spare in June of 2022. Chief Medina has received other recognition since the incident including a visit from the victim of the incident and his family to say Thank you... Thank you for stepping into harm’s way and contributing in saving the life of another.
Probie of the Year:
Richmond Engine 1’s Kevin LaRoy Fire News is pleased to announce the winner of the 2023 Fire News National Award for Probie of the Year to Kevin LaRoy. Kevin is a
firefighter/training officer at Richmond Engine Company1 in Staten Island and has significantly contributed to the knowledge and response tactics. His fulltime job is with the city of NY as one of their elite Rescue Paramedics. He received his FF1, Hazmat Ops, Water Rescue, and Rope Tech certifications while with Richmond Engine and has changed the outlook, goals, and increased recruitment and retention of Richmond Engine because of his efforts. He embodies what a first responder can accomplish.
The Fire News National Awards were recently announced and Kevin and Jose were two of 11 awards presented nationally. For information and an application for the 2024 Awards Program contact patti@firenews.com.
Chief Anthony V. LaFerrera Installed as President of NYSAFC
Chief Anthony V. LaFerrera of the North Babylon Volunteer Fire Company (Suffolk County) was installed as president of the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs (NYSAFC) during their 118th Annual Conference & FIRE 2024 Expo Installation ceremony, which was held on June 14, 2024, at the Marriott Syracuse Downtown in Syracuse. He will serve a one-year term leading the statewide not-forprofit organization that represents more than 10,000 career and volunteer fire and EMS personnel of all ranks from across New York State.
LaFerrera began his fire service career with the North Babylon Volunteer Fire Company in March 1979. Assigned to Station 2, LaFerrera moved through the ranks of line officer and served as captain from 1986-1989. He was elected 3rd Assistant Chief in 1990 and Chief in 1994 and 1995. LaFerrera is also a past President and still serves as Secretary of the fire company. Additionally, he is a past President of the Town of Babylon Fire Chiefs Association, Town of Babylon Fire Officials Association, and Fire Chiefs’Council of Suffolk County. LaFerrera has served on the Suffolk County Fire and Rescue Services Commission since 2003. He is also a retired FDNY EMS lieutenant. LaFerrera has been a member of NYSAFC since 1990 and served on the Communications, Annual Conference, and Volunteer Chiefs Committees before joining the board in 2016.
Also, during the ceremony, Chief Richard L. Lyman (White Plains Fire Department) was sworn in as 1st Vice President and Chief James E. Hare (Hilton Fire Department) was sworn in as 2nd Vice President. Chief Brad W. Davies (Corning Fire Department) and Chief Stefano Napolitano (City of Rochester Fire Department) were sworn in as Career Directors. Deputy Fire Coordinator North Anthony D. Faso (Fredonia Fire Department) and Chief William K. Owen III (Stittville Fire Department) were sworn in as Volunteer Directors.
- Fire News photos by Myles Quinn
(Left to right): Association President Ron Sabernick presenting Fire News Award to Fire Chief Jose' L. Medina). The nomination was submitted by Christopher R. Martin. For information and an application for the 2024 Awards Program contact patti@firenew.com
Cover Story
Capsized Canoe Sends a Pairand Pet into Mohawk
On June 2, 2024, several reports of a capsized canoe with occupants in the waterwere received at Unified Communications Centersending a large contingent of fireboats to the scene on the Mohawk River just west of the Kiwanis Park boat launch. The Beukendaal fireboat made it to the scene first, picking up a male and female and their
German shepherd puppy and bringing them to safety. The occupants did not sustain any injuries. Fireboats from Rotterdam Junction and Schonowee fire departments responded but were not needed.
- Fire News photos by Peter R. Barber
WagnerRoad 2-Alarmer
On May 5, 2024, Carman firefighters battled a two-alarm fire on WagnerRoad aftermultiple calls were received shortly after1600. Upon arrival, crews observed flames venting from a second floorwindow on the B side of the dwelling. Crews knocked the fire down quickly and no injuries were reported. - Fire News photos by Peter R. Barber
Bronx 4-Alarmer
Bronx firefighters fought a four-alarm fire on 3rd Avenue on June 20, 2024. Units had heavy fire throughout a single-story taxpayerbuilding just after1700. Units used three towerladders and multiple hoselines. The fire took three hours and 45 minutes to bring undercontrol. - Fire News photos by Lloyd Mitchell
Vails Gate TrailerFire
Recently, in Vails Gate, the Washingtonville Fire Department was dispatched as the FASTto a fire in a double-wide trailer. Squad 580 responded and, upon arrival, the incident commanderchanged 580’s assignment and put the crew to work. The crew of Squad 580 assisted with opening up and operated a hoseline.
- Fire News photo by Gary Hearn
Wall and Stairwell Collapse in Yonkers
Announcements
KANSFIELD CHOSEN AS CHIEFOF FDNYCOUNSELINGSERVICE UNIT
FDNYFire Commissioner Laura Kavanagh recently appointed Ann Kansfield, the FDNY's first female and openly gay chaplain as chief of the department's Counseling Service Unit. The unit runs psychologists and therapist's assessment and treatment of job candidates and ailing first responders. Kansfield was one of nine department chaplains.
THE ISLIPARTS COUNCILCONCERTIN THE PARK RETURNS TO HECKSCHER
The Islip Arts Council is thrilled to announce the return of the FREE Concert in The Park on August 10, 2024, at Heckscher State Park. After a five-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this cherished 46-year musical tradition is back. Pack a picnic, grab a blanket, and bring the family to enjoy an evening of spectacular music and celebration.
This year’s concert commemorates two significant milestones: the 100th Anniversary of New York State Parks and the 50th Anniversary of the Islip Arts Council. Under the baton of David Stewart Wiley, Orchestra Long Island will be joined by special guest soloist Eddie Barbash (EddieBarbash.com). Following the concert, attendees will be treated to a breathtaking Grucci Fireworks display, sponsored by Northville Industries.
Also playing will be native Long Islander Eddie Barbash, a founding member of the house band for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. Eddie will perform pieces dedicated to his grandmother, Lillian Barbash, founder of the Islip Arts Council.
The Concert in The Park is free to the public and attracts over 10,000 attendees, making it one of Suffolk County’s largest events. This year, County Executive Ed Romaine and the Suffolk County Legislature have generously supported the concert. Additional support comes from Northville Industries, Jake's 58, The Ozarin Family, Rechler Equity, Fireworks by Grucci, Discover Long Island, and The Long Island Arts Alliance.
We invite the public to make the evening even more special by bringing a bag of non-perishable food to for families struggling with food insecurity. Island Harvest volunteers will be on-site to accept donations. See you at Heckscher State Park!
FDNYCOMMISH RESIGNS
Laura Kavanagh, the New York City Fire Department’s first woman fire commissioner who had repeatedly butted heads with the department’s top chiefs, announced her resignation after less than two years in office.
“My dedication to the FDNYhas never and will never waver,” Kavanagh said in a statement. “It has been the honor of a lifetime to devote the last 10 years - five as first deputy commissioner and more than two as commissioner - to advocating for the men and women of the FDNY.” Kavanagh is stepping down to seek other career opportunities.
- Fire News photo by Mike Messar
Just before 1100 on June 21, 2024, Yonkers dispatch received a call fora wall and stairwell collapse at a North Broadway address in the Yonkers Getty Square section. Upon arrival, companies found a 30-foot section of the basement wall, shared by adjoining buildings, had collapsed. This caused the buildings interiorstairwell to fall into the basement, trapping residents on upperfloors. One occupant was on the first floorstairs when they gave way and was found on the ground just outside the front door. The occupants were quickly removed by towerladderwith two transported to a nearby hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The decision was ultimately made to demolish the four-story, triangle shaped structure, made difficult by the Saw Mill Riverrunning underneath the building.
Kavanagh will remain with the department for the next few months to help the city’s new fire commissioner get up to speed. Mayor Adams has yet to name a replacement.
Parades
Sand Lake Memorial Day Parade
The town of Sand Lake held its annual Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony. Hundreds of residents cheered as the firefighters and engines passed by. AMemorial Day Service was held at the Veterans Park and the Kiwanis Club gave out hot dogs to everyone.
- Submitted by Lori Washburn; photo by Truck
Ballston Spa Memorial Day Parade
On May 25, 2024, Ballston Spa held its annual Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony. The event brings members of local fire departments as well as MacBoston 18 Truck, members of veterans organizations, schools and members of the Navy to participate. The event concludes with a ceremony and speeches. MacBoston 18 Truck flew Old Glory overthe ceremony.
- Submitted by Lori Washburn; photo by Truck
North Greenbush Memorial Day Parade
Hundreds of people lined the streets in North Greenbush forthe annual Memorial Day Parade. Hundreds of firefighters, bagpipers, and community organizations joined in the parade that ended at City Hall forspeeches and a wreath laying.
- Submitted by Lori Washburn; photo by Truck
Maplewood
Memorial Day Parade
On May 24, 2024, the Maplewood Fire Department held its annual Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony. The streets were lined with residents who waved flags and received candy thrown from the local fire departments who joined in the parade. The parade ended at the park where wreaths were placed and local dignitaries spoke. Areading of all the Maplewood resident veterans who passed away was also held. All residents, parade members and fire departments were invited back to Maplewood Fire Department for hamburgers, hot dogs and ice cream.
- Submitted by Lori Washburn; photo by Truck
Whitestone Blaze
Araging fire consumed a large private dwelling on 159th Street nearPowells Cove Boulevard in the Whitestone section of Queens on June 9, 2024.
of
could be seen from a distance and firefighters faced heavy fire conditions on arrival. The blaze was brought undercontrol within an hour.
Alarge column
black smoke
South Ozone Park 3-Alarmer
FDNYcompanies in South Ozone Park battled a three-alarm fire that started in a private dwelling on 108th Street but quickly spread to an adjoining two-story mixed-occupancy on 101st Avenue. Heavy fire sent a column of black smoke into the morning sky that could be seen formiles. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
43rd Annual Interfaith Memorial Service
Rockland County firefighters recently held their43rd annual interfaith memorial service at the Rockland County Fire Training Centerin Pomona. The June 2, 2024, ceremony honors members of the Rockland County fire service, as well as ladies auxiliary members, who have passed away in the previous year.Welcomed by Rockland County Fire Advisory Board Chairman Frank Bifulco, the crowd in attendance then heard prayers from several local fire
department chaplains. Aftera keynote speech from formercounty Directorof Fire and Emergency Services Gordon Wren, representatives from Rockland’s 26 fire departments and ladies auxiliaries were then called up, one by one, to place a flowerinto a wreath in memory of theirdeceased members. Afterthe ceremony, taps were played, and the Stony Point Fire Department retired the colors to close out the event. - Fire News photos by Kenny Flynn
Brockport Fire District to Receive NYS Grant forCollege Bunk-In Program
New York State Department of State has released the projects' approved in the $2.4 million awards supporting the Local Government Efficiency Grant Program across the state. The Brockport Fire District is one of the seven recipients bringing almost $500,000 to the area in state funding.
Those funds will enable the district to purchase furnishings and renovate housing to implement a formalized Mutual Aid Bunk-In program within the Fire District. The program will target student firefighters attending universities close to home: SUNY Brockport, Monroe Community College, Roberts Wesleyan, etc. The Brockport program is intended to be a joint program with surrounding fire districts. The strategic partners will tentatively be Murray Joint Fire District (Holley), Hamlin-Morton-Walker Fire District, Bergen Fire Department and Churchville Fire Department. The details for the strategic partner agencies are currently being worked out. Brockport is intended to be the home agency as the award recipient, and the agency with the highest call volume.
their services to the Brockport Fire District and our strategic partner agencies while school is in session. According to Fire Commissioner David Georgiev, this is a win-win-win: for the Fire District, for our community and for the student firefighters participating.
The focus of the program is to allow students from across NYS who are volunteer firefighters at home to keep their firefighting skills up while attending college in the area. It will also enable them to live near campus without having to endure the high cost of on or off-campus housing while performing a vital community service for us. The program will offer living quarters at no cost to the student in exchange for
The Brockport Fire District has welcomed SUNYBrockport students who are firefighters in their home community to volunteer with us while attending college for many years. This program is intended to provide an incentive for more students to volunteer while making their college experience more affordable.
- Story and photo by Brockport FD PIO
Seen Around the NYSAFC Conference and Expo
Outgoing N.Y. Chief’s President R. Scott Ewing, Don Corkery, President of the New York State Association of Fire Districts, and incoming New York State President Anthony LaFerrera.
- Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Golden’s Bridge DC Raymond Honored
Aman who spent decades serving his neighbors was honored by his home state of New York in a touching tribute. State SenatorPeter Harckham presented a proclamation to Golden’s Bridge Fire Department Captain Raymond Baker, Jr., and his brother, Ryan Bakerin tribute to theirlate father, Golden’s Bridge Deputy Fire Chief Raymond J. Baker, Sr., who died unexpectedly in March 2024. The proclamation lauded Bakerforhis 33 years (1980-2013) as a careerfirefighterwith the Hartsdale Fire Department in the Town of Greenburgh, and his combined 17 years as a volunteerfirefighterwith the Somers Fire Department (2007-2017) and Golden’s Bridge Fire Department (2016-until his death). One of the proudest achievements forthe late Deputy Fire Chief was serving alongside his son foreight years with Golden’s Bridge. In addition to holding the department’s third-highest officerrank, Bakerserved as the certified training officerand, at one time, also held the captain’s position now filled by his son. The proclamation acknowledged Baker’s many federal, state and county certifications, and equally lengthy officerand leadership positions with the Somers and
Golden’s Bridge. It also referenced how he joined hundreds of other firefighters in the recovery efforts at the World Trade Center.
- Photo provided by Golden’s Bridge FD
Citizen Lifesaverin Brockport
Brockport firefighters responded to the report of a vehicle striking a building with a medical emergency. Leigha Walker, an 18-year. old Senior at Holley High School was working at the Subway in Brockport when she heard a loud noise outside; looking out she discovered a vehicle had run into their building.
Walker dialed 911 and went out front with three others. They noticed an 80-year-old male slumped over the wheel with locked doors. The four of them worked to break the glass and assist the male from the vehicle. He was reportedly barely breathing with a weak pulse.
Walker, who had been certified in CPR just last year jumped into action and started compressions. At about the same time, Deputy Chief Tim Smith pulled up with a Brockport Police Officer simultaneously. They brought an AED which called for two shocks to be administered. Monroe Ambulance transported the patient to Strong Memorial Hospital with two firefighters on board assisting. Leigha is an honors student and three-sport varsity athlete.
The Fire District is pleased to report this is another instance of many hands and agencies coming together to contribute to the saving of the life of another. The driver of the vehicle was revived and is alive to spend another day with us all.
- Story by Christopher Martin, BFD PIO; photo provided
Blooming Grove MVA
At 2057 on June 5, 2024, the Washingtonville Fire Department was alerted foran MVAwith injuries, on Tuthill Road in the Town of Blooming Grove. Upon arrival, fire department units found that the occupants of the vehicles were not trapped in the vehicles, but they did need assistance getting themselves out of the vehicles. One vehicle came within a foot of rolling down into a flowing creek. Washingtonville personnel checked the stability of the vehicles, assisted the occupants in exiting and assisted Blooming Grove VolunteerAmbulance personnel who treated and transported the occupants. The cause of the collision is underinvestigation by the Blooming Grove Police Department.
- Fire News photo by Gary Hearn
Canarsie 2-Alarmer
Engine Company 323 transmitted a 10-75 forsmoke showing from the roof of a private dwelling on East 78th Street in Canarsie on June 8, 2024. The fire extended to the cockloft area. Asecond alarm was transmitted and five hoselines were put into operation.
- Fire News photo by Lloyd Mitchell
6th FloorFire in NYC
FDNYfirefighters fought a sixth-floorfire on June 11, 2024 on West 28th Street in Manhattan. - Fire News photo by Gary Hearn
FDNY Medal Day 2024
FDNYFirefighters celebrated FDNYMedal Day at City Hall on June 5, 2024.
- Fire News photos by Lloyd Mitchell
Arlington Apartment Fire
Arlington firefighters battled a structure fire at the Manchester Garden Apartments on April 25, 2024. Firefighters arrived to one apartment well-off with an extension into the roof area. Firefighters were able to make an excellent stop, keeping the fire mostly contained to the apartment of origin and the roof area above the apartment. Arlington was assisted at the scene by the City of Poughkeepsie as the FAST, Empress EMS, and the Town of Poughkeepsie Police. New Hackensack, Pleasant Valley and Roosevelt provided station coverage during the incident.
- Fire News photo by Bill Johnson
Motley Crew
Arlington firefighters afterthe apartment fire on April 25, 2024 as described below.
- Fire News photo by Bill Johnson
Dutchess VolunteerFirefighter’s Day at Firefighters Home
On May 19, 2024, was Dutchess County VolunteerFirefighter’s (DCVFA) Day at the Firefighters Home in Hudson. It’s the one day that firefighter’s from Dutchess County come up and put on a barbecue forthe members at the Firefighter’s Home. We had members from Dover, East Fishkill, Hughsonville, New Hackensack, Pawling,
Fire on the 65th Floor
FDNYfire crews responded to a fire on Orchard Street at Jackson Boulevard in Queens. The fire was on the 65th floorof a 70-floorhigh-rise underconstruction. There were lithium-ion batteries reportedly involved.
- Fire News photo by Paul Shea
Pleasant Valley, Rhinebeck, Rombout and Wassaic. Afterthe great barbecue lunch, it was time to go to the home where DCVFA, Rombout and Hughsonville gave donations to the ice cream machine fund because everyone likes ice cream. - Vincent Galvin, Financial Secretary, Dutchess County Volunteer Firefighters Association
Brooklyn 2nd Alarm
Engine Company 231, TowerLadder120 and 44 Battalion responded to a phone alarm in Brooklyn fora Sackman Street address. Units arrived to heavy fire on the first, second and third floors of a three-story, wood frame, multiple dwelling on May 19, 2024. The 44 Battalion quickly transmitted a second alarm. - Fire News photo by Lloyd Mitchell
All Hands in East Flatbush
Engine Company 248 transmitted a 10-75 forheavy fire from the fourth floorof an apartment building on May 23, 2024. The 41 Battalion put all hands in service on arrival. The fire left two residents with minorinjuries. - Fire News photo by Lloyd Mitchell
New City CarFire
The New City Fire Department responded to a working carfire on June 11, 2024. The driverof the vehicle reported a lack of engine powerand an unknown odorbefore pulling into a bank parking lot. Upon exiting his vehicle, he then observed the carwas on fire and
called 911. Underthe command of 1st Assistant Chief Brendan Wren, New City firefighters responded with two engines and made quick work of the blaze using foam.
- Fire News photos by Kenny Flynn
NewtoTHEM
NewsYou C Can U Use
Juniors News
The Town of Colonie Fire Departments once again brought Recruit NYto Colonie High School on May 3, 2024. This is the second year that the departments have brought the need forvolunteers to the high school in an opportunity to “Spark a Fire” in the students. Last yearover40 students signed up to learn more, and many joined the fire departments in the districts. West Albany, Fuller Road, Colonie Village, Midway and Stanford Heights fire departments brought gear, hoses and members to help encourage students to become firefighters. The event is the brain child of Chief Eric Obermeyerof Midway Fire Department who is also an educatorat Colonie High School.
- Submitted by Lori Washburn; photos by
Photos By Truck
Juniors
Colonie Recruit NY (Continued)
Remembering 9/11
EditorGary P. Joyce’s granddaughters Madeline (left) and Keira at Engine 343 in Manhattan.
- Fire News photo by Christopher Keating
Heavy Damage at La Grange House Fire
LaGrange firefighters, along with mutual aid departments, operated at a residential structure fire on Creekside Lane at 0632 on April 18, 2024. Firefighters arrived to an active fire, with all occupants out of the residence. Although firefighters were able to quickly knock the fire down, it had already caused significant damage to the
structure and its contents and the cause was being investigated by the Dutchess County Department of Emergency Response - Fire Investigation Division. LaGrange was assisted at the scene by Arlington as the FAST, Beekman, Pleasant Valley, and Union Vale. - Fire News photos by Bill Johnson
Washingtonville MVA
Washingtonville firefighters responded on May 26, 2024 at 0605, to an MVA. Firefighters checked the stability of the vehicle. There was one injured person, the operatorof the vehicle, who was treated and
transported by Blooming Grove VAC. The Blooming Grove Police Department investigated.
- Fire News photos by Gary Hearn
Orange County CarShow
On May 19, 2024, the Orange County VolunteerFire Police held there annual carshow. The weatherwas beautiful, and the event also featured food trucks, a tricky tray, a 50/50 raffle and DJ Hot Rod. - Fire News photos by Vinnie Dominick
Looking Back Wallkill - 1999 Wallkill - 1999
Amulti-alarm dwelling fire on Bruyn Turnpike in Walkill. - Fire News photo by Steve Lenz
On May 16, 2024, Niskayuna Fire District 2 firefighters battled a multiple-alarm fire on Pearse Road afterfire was reported shortly after1700. Upon arrival, fire was seen venting heavily from the C side first- and second-floorwindows. Firefighters from Niskayuna Fire District 1, Colonie and Schonowee assisted at the scene. One firefightersuffered an ankle injury.
- Fire News photos by Peter R. Barber
Fire Destroys Niskayuna House
UnderConstruction
Winona Lake CarShow
Recently Winona Lake Engine Company held their8th annual carshow at Stop and Shop on a beautiful day featuring a great turn out of cars, music, 50/50, tricky tray, and trophies and more. The Best CarOverall came from New Jersey.
- Fire News photos by Vinnie Dominick
2024 Annual Meeting & Leadership Expo
The Association of Fire Districts of the State of New York (AFDSNY) will hold their2024 Annual Meeting and Leadership Expo October20 to 23, 2024 (Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday) at the Turning Stone Resort & Casino. Registerat https://mms.afdsny.org/members/evr/reg_event.php?orgcode=FDNY&evid=40809591.
Full Registration: $275 includes All Lectures & Educational Sessions (SundayWed.); Includes Secretary and Treasurer Training; Entrance to the Vendor Expo (Sun. and Mon.); Halloween Kick-off Ice Cream Social; and ESIPCocktail Reception and Officer Installation
Three Day Registration: $250 includes Lectures and Educational Sessions as applicable; Secretary and Treasurer Training; Entrance to the Vendor Expo; Halloween Kick-off Ice Cream Social if applicable; and ESIPCocktail Reception and Officer Installation.
Two Day Registratio:n $225 includes Lectures and Educational Session for the days selected Secretary and Treasurer Training; Entrance to the Vendor Expo if applicable; and Halloween Kick-off Ice Cream Social if applicable
One Day Registration: $175 included Lectures & Educational Session for the days selected; Secretary and Treasurer Training; Entrance to the Vendor Expo if applicable; and Halloween Ice Cream Social if applicable.
Wednesday Registration: $75 includes All Lectures and Educational Session on that day
Guest Registration is free but must be accompanied by a PAID registration attendee. Includes Trade Show and Tuesday evening Reception.
EVENTS:
Halloween Kick off Ice Cream Social: Sunday 10/20 7 to 9 p.m. Vendors and attendees enjoy some Halloween theme ice cream treats while celebrate opening day of the 2024 Vendor Expo. An extra two hours on the vendor floor to meet and greet the attendees and share some early Halloween treats.
VendorAppreciation Lunch 10/21 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wrap up the Vendor Expo with a Vendor Appreciation Lunch. Additional lunch tickets $30 each.
Oktoberfest Cookout 10/22 from 5 to 7 p.m. Vendors and attendees will gather to celebrate Autumn with a delicious Oktoberfest themed cookout, including a tasty flight of brew! The Chef at Turning
Stone is working hard to create a unique menu for our special event. Menu coming soon! Cookout Tickets are $65 each.
Oktoberfest Reception and Auction 10/22 from 7 to 9 p.m. Join us again this year for after dinner cocktails, mouth watering desserts and our spirited and lively auction. Items donated by our vendors and county associations will be auctioned off to the highest bidder. We will also have some raffles. The proceeds from the event go into the scholarship fund for deserving high school seniors. They are also used to help offset the cost of the conference for smaller fire districts that might not otherwise be able to fund their attendance at the conference. Come enjoy some great desserts, beverages and get the chance to take home some awesome items and swag while outbidding some of your favorite commissioners.
HOTELACCOMMODATIONS
Reservation links will be sent in your confirmation email. NO call-in reservations will be accepted.
The Monroe County American Legion Named past Chief Allan Hoy Firefighterof the Yearfor2023
The Monroe County Convention forthe American Legion was held today at the Harvey C. Noone Post 954 in Churchville, where the Law and OrderCommittee forthe county presented Chief Hoy with theirFirefighterof the Yearplaque for2023. John Compitello, Commanderforthe Monroe County Convention, read from the nomination when he presented the plaque. Past-Chief Hoy was nominated by the American Legion Post 379 in Brockport earlier this year. Chief Hoy was accompanied by his wife; Deborah, Assistant Chief Adam Leggett, President of the Brockport VolunteerFirefighter's Association Ron Sabernick, FFand American Legion HonorGuard memberPaul Drake and FF Matthew Delucia when he received his award. Commanderand President Jack Tangen and Adjutant Bill Fine, both from the American Legion Post #379 in Brockport were in attendance for the presentation.
- Story and photos by Christopher Martin, BFD District PIO
DCVFA78th Annual Convention
On June 18, 2024, the Dutchess County Volunteer Firefighter’s Association (DCVFA) held their 78th annual convention at the New Hackensack Fire Department, in which the association holds their business meeting along with awarding scholarships, and honoring firefighters for valor. Elected officials who attended included State Senator Rob Rolison, State Assemblyman A. J. Beephan, Town Supervisor Joseph Cavaccini, representative from Didi Barrett’s office, Niko Decker. It was also a
night to celebrate new Hackensack’s 75th year of service to their community. Also giving New Hackensack a proclamation was State Senator Rob Rolison, State Assemblyman A.J. Beephan, Town Supervisor Joseph Cavaccini, and Don Farrell 2nd VPof FASNY.
Then it was onto the scholarship winners for which the association had nine junior firefighters as winners, the first time we had that number of winners. The winners were as follows Isabell Chloe Camburn, Czech, Quinn Curtis,
Owen Mulligan, Adam Renihan, Patrick Sample, Jason Ruiz, Robert Szabo and Benjamin Wolpert. After the scholarship winners, it was on to the unit citations that were awarded to two fire companies; the Hughsonville Fire Department for a serious motorcycle versus automobile accident and the Roosevelt Fire Department for a serious multivehicle MVAwith entrapment.
- Fire News story and photos courtesy of Vinny Gavin, DCVFA
DCVFA78th Annual Convention
NFPACOMPLETES ELECTION OFBOARD OFDIRECTORS R. DAVID PAULISON NAMED NEWCHAIRPERSON OFTHE NFPABOARD
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) completed the election of its Board of Directors at its Annual Meeting on June 17, 2024, which included the naming of a new chair, the election of two new members, and the reelection of a third member of the board.
R. David Paulison has been elected by the NFPA Board of Directors as the new chairperson. Paulison, who has been serving on the NFPABoard since 2015 and was the First Vice Chair, brings extensive experience in emergency management and fire safety to his new role.
He has had a distinguished career, previously serving as the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and as the U.S. Fire Administrator. He also spent 30 years with the MiamiDade Fire and Rescue Department, from 1971 to 2001, rising through the ranks from firefighter to becoming Fire Chief in 1992. His leadership and commitment to public safety have earned him the respect of his peers and the broader safety community. As the new chairperson, Paulison will work closely with NFPA’s executive leadership team and board members to continue advancing the organization’s global impact on fire, electrical, and life safety.
Chair, Lou Paulson as Secretary, Stacy Welch as Treasurer, Reggie Freeman as Assistant Treasurer, and Russell Leavitt as Immediate Past Chair. Kwame Cooper will continue in his current role as Assistant Secretary.
Paulison takes over from Russell Leavitt, executive chairman of Telgian Holdings, Inc., who is completing his second two-year term as Board Chair. Leavitt made significant contributions to NFPAand the fire safety community during his tenure.
The Board also elected a slate of officers that includes John Bonney as First Vice Chair, Roger Montembeault as Second Vice
In addition, NFPAmembers elected two new Board members, and a third was reelected to three-year terms on the Board. These individuals bring a wealth of expertise and a shared commitment to NFPA’s mission.
Christina Francis, P.E., FSFPE, senior staff fire and regulatory specialist for Tesla, was elected to her first three-year term.
David Hittinger, national director of codes and standards at IEC, was elected to his first three-year term.
Raj Arora, P.E., chief executive officer at Jensen Hughes, who has served on the Board since 2021, was elected to his second three-year term.
Founded in 1896, NFPAis a global, self-funded nonprofit organization devoted to eliminating death, injury, property and economic loss due to fire, electrical and related hazards. The association delivers information and knowledge through more than 300 consensus codes and standards, research, training, education, outreach and advocacy; and by partnering with others who share an interest in furthering the NFPAmission. For more information, visit www.nfpa.org. All NFPAcodes and standards can be viewed online for free at www.nfpa.org/freeaccess.
AFGAND SAFER REAUTHORIZATION BILLPASSES SENATE, SENTTO PRESIDENTTO BECOME LAW
On June18, 2024, by a vote of 88 to 2, the US Senate passed the Fire Grants and Safety Act (S.870), a bill to reauthorize the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant programs, as well as the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) through fiscal year (FY) 2028. The legislation also extended the sunset date for AFG and SAFER to September 30, 2030. The bill has been sent to the President to be signed into law. Once signed, these programs will be protected for the next several years, ensuring that the fire and emergency services can continue to access vital federal support.
The final passage of this bill resulted from a coordinated, multi-year advocacy effort by CFSI, members of CFSI’s National Advisory Committee, and our Capitol Hill partners. The path was long and challenging, but working together, fire and emergency services organizations prevailed in reauthorizing the grant programs.
“The core mission of CFSI is consensus building, and for over 24 years, we have worked collaboratively with the other national organizations to preserve and fund these two programs, as well as the United States Fire Administration,” said Bill Webb, CFSI’s Executive Director. “It is our honor to have led this most recent effort to reauthorize AFG, SAFER, and USFAin this challenging political environment.”
Hill Champions
They include: House and Senate Leadership who made the votes on the Fire Grants and Safety Act possible: Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer; Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell; Speaker of the House Mike Johnson; House Majority Leader Steve Scalise; House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.
Committee Leadership who were original cosponsors of the bill and ensured that the legislation was able to move through the House and Senate committee processes successfully: Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Chairman Gary Peters; House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology Chairman Frank Lucas; House Committee on Science, Space and Technology Ranking Member Zoe Lofgren.
The success of this effort illustrates the importance of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus in uniting members of Congress to work together on fire service issues regardless of political affiliations. We owe a debt of gratitude to a large group of members who were instrumental in passing this legislation.
Congressional Fire Services Caucus CoChairs who demonstrate their strong support for the fire and emergency services every day and played vital roles in supporting this legislation: Senator Susan Collins* - Lead Republican on the Senate version of the Fire Grants and Safety Act; Senator Tom Carper - original cosponsor of the Fire Grants and Safety Act and a negotiator on the bill; Senator Jon Tester - original cosponsor of the Fire Grants and Safety Act and Chair of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus in the 118th Congress; Senator Lisa Murkowski - original cosponsor of the Fire Grants and Safety Act; Congressman Bill Pascrell* - Lead Democrat on the House version of the Fire Grants and Safety Act; Congressman Steny Hoyer - original cosponsor of the Fire Grants and Safety Act; Congressman Mike Bost - original cosponsor of the Fire Grants and Safety Act; Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick - original cosponsor of the Fire Grants and Safety Act.
Lead sponsor of the House version of the Fire Grants and Safety Act: Congressman Tom Kean.
