story on page 6.
Fire News photo by Peter R. Barber
In this issue...
Chimney Fire on a Hot Day?
It was unsure why the fireplace was being used on a 98-degree day and the homeowner was not forthcoming.
See story on page 4
Heavy Damage at La Grange House Fire
Firefighters arrived to an active fire, with all occupants out of the residence.
See story on page 8
Metal Scrapyard Fire
Keeps Firefighters Busy for Hours
Buffalo firefighters were called to the scene of a metal scrapyard fire.
See story on page 16
Quick Stop in Port Chester
Crews arrived to find a smoke condition throughout the house with possible fire in the walls.
See story on page 27
Iconic Yonkers Bakery Heavily Damaged
Fire heavily damaged the famous Delite Bakery,
See story on page 31
Red Knights Ride
The Red Knights NYChapter III held their annual ride to benefit America’s 9-11 Foundation.
See story on page 34
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Focus of the Month
page 34
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Chimney Fire on a Hot Day?
On May 23, 2024, West Albany and ShakerRoad-Loudonville fire departments were dispatched to Laurel Drive in Colonie fora chimney fire. It was unsure why the fireplace was being used on a 98-degree day and the homeownerwas not forthcoming. Luckily the departments were able to unblock the chimney preventing furtherdamage. - Submitted by Lori Washburn; Photos by Truck
Brooklyn All Hands
Engine Company 271 and LadderCompany 124 transmitted a 1075 forheavy smoke showing from the roof of a two-story building on Troutman Street in Bushwick, Brooklyn on June 30, 2024. Units used two hoselines to knock down the main body of fire, which went to an all hands. - Fire News photo by Lloyd Mitchell
Spring Valley Deck Fire
On June 18, 2024, Spring
responded
RochesterCondo Fire
Just aftermidnight on July 5, 2024, Rochesterfirefighters were dispatched to Seneca ManorDrive forthe report of a house fire. First arriving crews found heavy fire running up the outside of the condo from the ground to the roof line. Firefighters were able to quickly knock down the fire, keeping the flames on the exteriorof the home. Crews mopped up and opened up ensuring the fire was fully out. - Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com
Valley Fire Department
fora deck fire - Fire News photo by Gary Hearn
Fireworks Sets House Ablaze Fireworks Sets House Ablaze Cover Story
Carman firefighters were called to a garage fire on Chepstow Road shortly aftermidnight on July 6, 2024. Upon arrival the attached garage was well involved and began spreading into the residence. The fire was brought undercontrol in less than an hourand the cause was listed as improperdisposal of spent fireworks placed in a garbage can inside the garage. - Fire News photo by Peter R. Barber
Nice Stop at Monsey Fire
The Monsey Fire Department responded to a working fire on June 25, 2024. Upon arrival, firefighters discovered fire and smoke coming from the rearof the large 2-1/2 story house and quickly mounted an interiorattack, knocking down the bulk of the fire. Due to issues accessing the attic space from the interior, several firefighters
were needed to cut a hole in the roof and extinguish a stubborn pocket of fire. As overhaul continued, additional mutual aid was requested to supplement crews that had been operating in the hot weatherand humidity. EMS evaluated several firefighters who suffered heat related symptoms. - Fire News photos by Kenny Flynn
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
Quick Stop in East New York
FDNYBattalion Chief 58 transmitted a 10-75 fora fire on the roof of a private dwelling on Louisiana Avenue in East New York, Brooklyn. Units used two hoselines to knock down the main body of fire on July 8, 2024. - Fire News photos by Lloyd Mitchell
It’s Time to Make Nick’s Law a Priority
Ahit-and-run accident in Patchogue in March 2023 that took the life of 25-year-old Nicholas Puzio was the final straw for NYS Senator Dean Murray and NYS Assemblyman Doug Smith. Puzio of Farmingville, died after being struck by, not one, but two separate vehicles, while he was crossing Route 112. The drivers of both vehicles fled the scene after striking Puzio, leaving him to die. Unfortunately, drivers leaving the scene of accidents have become an all too regular occurrence and have taken far too many lives. For this reason, Senator Murray and Assemblyman Smith introduced ‘Nick’s Law’ in 2023 (S6051/A6520), which will increase penalties for those convicted of leaving the scene of an accident involving a death.
To add insult to injury, one of the drivers that fled the scene of Mr. Puzio’s accident was recently convicted and sentenced to serve six months behind bars with five years probation. The second individual has been indicted and is awaiting trial.
“Two drivers made reckless choices and left my son dying in the street. Who does that? Does anyone have regard for human life? The laws in New York State are far too lenient,” said Nick’s mother, Terry Puzio. “Unfortunately, the current punishment doesn’t seem to deter the crime,” she added.
“That is why my colleagues, and I are once again, bringing attention to these senseless incidents,” said NYS Senator Murray. “There
is little doubt that the state legislature will be called back to Albany in the coming weeks or months to address some unfinished business. We are calling on the Legislative Leaders to make ‘Nick’s Law’a part of that unfinished business. It seems that deadly hit-and-run accidents are becoming a regular occurrence on Long Island and it is up to us, as leaders, to do more to stop this horrific trend. Passing ‘Nick’s Law’will go a long way in doing just that … but we cannot wait until next year, too many lives are at stake. We must act now,” Senator Murray added.
“It’s clear that people are afraid of getting in additional trouble for being drunk, impaired or just plain reckless, so they flee the scene, thinking they are somehow escaping serious consequences. By passing Nick’s Law, we will hopefully change that line of thinking. Currently, someone caught fleeing the scene of an accident resulting in death, will be charged with a class D felony, and hit with a fine of no more than $5,000. Under Nick’s Law, those who flee the scene of an accident resulting death, will be hit with a class B felony and a fine of $30,000,” stated Senator Murray.
It seems that week after week, we are hearing reports of another hit-and-run accident and another person dying. According to multiple news reports, there were as many as 16 hit-andrun accidents involving fatalities in Suffolk County alone in 2023. This year, to date, there
have been multiple hit-and-run accidents resulting in fatalities. The most recent fatality is that of Christopher Hlavaty, a 22-year-old volunteer firefighter in East Patchogue, who was killed in a hit and run crash where, once again, the driver fled the scene.
“My hope for the passage of Nick’s Law is that people will think twice before leaving the scene of these horrific, life altering accidents. The consequences need to be much stiffer and just maybe, these heartless people will not be so quick to leave our loved ones to die,” said Janine Hlavaty, mother of Christopher Hlavaty.
“When someone is hurt at the scene of an accident every moment counts. Nick’s law will send a strong message that for anyone who flees an accident scene where there is a loss of life: we will find you and you will be locked behind bars for many years. There is no excuse,” said NYS Assemblyman Doug Smith, 5th Assembly District.
“We are deeply concerned about the rising incidents of roadway violence and hit-andruns. There must be parity between impaired driving homicides and hit-and-runs or drivers will continue to have an incentive to leave. The problem under current law is the driver will face lower charges if they are just caught leaving the scene,” said Suffolk District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney. “We urgently call for legislative reform to ensure that those responsible are held fully accountable for their actions.”
- Fire News photos by Frank C. Trotta
Rochester3-Alarm Warehouse Fire
On June 25, 2024, Rochesterfirefighters were dispatched to Child Street forthe report of a fire. First arriving crews found fire showing from a large two-story vacant warehouse. Command arrived and struck second and third alarms as crews set up fora defensive operation due to the heavy fire load inside the building. Fire blew
through the roof as companies put masterstreams and ladderpipes in operation. The fire was an extended operation as companies worked to knock down the main body of fire and all hotspots.
- Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com
Garage Fire Threatens
Nearby Home
On June 27, 2024, volunteerfirefighters from South Schenectady were summoned to the scene of a garage fire on Clyde Avenue in the Schenectady County town of Rotterdam. Heavy fire was observed on arrival. Mutual aid came from Rotterdam Fire District 2, Pine Grove and Schonowe. The cause was underinvestigation. - Fire News photos by Peter R. Barber
8 Rescued from Liberty Avenue Blaze
before 0300. The fire also left two firefighters with minorinjuries. Units used five hoselines to knock down the main body of fire. -
FDNYfirefighters rescued eight occupants from a three-alarm fire on Liberty Avenue on July 28, 2024. Units arrived to heavy smoke and fire in the rearof the two-story attached private dwelling just
Fire News photos by Lloyd Mitchell
3 Wyoming County Departments Get Award
During this year’s Wyoming County VolunteerFireman’s Association Convention dinner, the association presented the Pike Fire Department, Bliss Fire Department, Gainesville Fire Department and Castile Fire Department forthe Team
Effort/Multiple Agency Response award following a serious MVAin the Town of Pike in August 2023.
- Submitted by Brian Meyers, Dir. of Fire & Emergency Management
Queens 5-AlarmerSend 11 FFs, 3 Civ. to Hospital
Engine Company 326 transmitted a 10-75 forheavy smoke showing from the rearof a private dwelling on August 3, 2024. Units had heavy fire throughout seven private dwellings. The fire went to five alarms and sent 11 firefighters and three civilians to the hospital.
- Fire News photo by Lloyd Mitchell
Rochester, Apartment Building Fire
In the evening of May 29, 2024, Rochesterfirefighters were dispatched to Alberta Street forthe report of a fire. On arrival, companies were faced with heavy smoke and fire from the second floor of a large two-story apartment building. As crews made entry, command struck a second alarm due to the advanced fire conditions. Firefighters were able to make a push to the second floor where they worked to knock down the main body of fire while crews opened the roof. The fire was brought undercontrol a short time later. - Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com
Metal Scrapyard Fire Keeps Firefighters Busy
forHours
Buffalo firefighters were called to the scene of a metal scrapyard fire at the Metalico Company on Fillmore Avenue on July 27, 2024. Plumes of smoke could be seen formiles as combustible piles of metal burned fornearly six hours. Three towerladders were put to work to control the flames. Foam from neighboring Buffalo International Airport was also brought to the scene to smotherthe stubborn flames. - Fire News photos by Peter R. Barber
Irondequoit Vacant House Fire
In the early morning of July 5, 2024, Irondequoit firefighters were dispatched fora fire in the area of Vinal Street. First arriving, companies found heavy smoke banking down in the street which was coming from a dwelling which had been the site of previous fires. Engine companies made entry through the front and rearknocking down fire on multiple floors stopping the flames before they could take overthe home.
- Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com
Brockport 3-Alarmerin Vacant Warehouse
On July 1, 2024, Brockport firefighters were alerted to a fire in the area of State Street. Police were first to arrive and radioed they had a fire in a large building. When the first fire crews arrived, they reported heavy smoke from a large vacant warehouse. Command arrived shortly afterand struck second and third alarms, bringing in extra trucks and manpowerto fight the fire in the metal clad building.
- Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com
Rte. 208 MVAand Rollover
Recently, the Washingtonville Fire Department was dispatched to an MVAwith rolloveron Route 208 just south of Barnes Road in the Town of Blooming Grove. While en route Orange County 911 advised the 1st assistant chief that police personnel were confirming a person trapped in the vehicle. Upon arrival, fire department per-
sonnel stabilized the vehicle and extricated the driverwho sustained non-life-threateninginjuries and was transported to Garnett Hospital by the Blooming Grove VolunteerAmbulance Corp. The cause of the accident was underinvestigation by the Blooming Grove Police Department. - Fire News photos by Gary Hearns
Detroit firefighters responded to a fully involved vacant house fire on Pulford Street in Detroit (MI) shortly after0330 on the 4th of July. Handlines, masterstreams and towerladders were put into action to control the flames that threatened nearby homes.
Fire News photos by
Peter R. Barber
Head-on MVAin Greenbush
Two cars were involved in a head-on collision on Columbia Turnpike in East Greenbush. Surprisingly, there were no serious injuries. - Fire News photo by Martin E. Miller
RolloverMVAin CronomerValley
CronomerValley Fire Department responded to a single-car rolloverMVAinto tree with entrapment. One person was taken to the hospital by the Town of Newburgh Medical Service.
- Fire News photo by Vinny Dominick
Bronx Commercial 4-Alarm
Engine 94 transmitted a 10-75 forheavy fire in a single-story commercial building on Tiffany Street just before 0100. Units searched forthe fire but were quickly withdrawn from the fire building. In all, fourhoselines, three towerladders and a ram were put into operation. The fire ultimately went to fouralarms.
- Fire News photo by Lloyd Mitchell
Bayview Houses Couch Fire
Battalion 58 transmitted an urgent 10-77 fora couch fire on the first floorof the Bayview Houses on August 2, 2024. Units used a hoseline to knock down the main body of fire in 12 minutes.
- Fire News photo by Lloyd Mitchell
WaterRescue in Coney Island Has Sad Ending
On July 5, 2024, Engine Company 245, LadderCompany 161 and 168, 43 Battalion and NYPD Special Operations responded fora waterrescue at Stillwell Avenue in Coney Island. They were able to rescue a pairof teenaged sisters. They were removed to Coney Island Hospital where they were, tragically, pronounced deceased.
- Fire News photo by Lloyd Mitchell
Floral Park Fire
FDNYunits in the Floral Park section of Queens responded to a fire in a private dwelling on 268th Street on July 4, 2024. The fire caused serious damage to the exteriorof the home with the neighboring house also damaged due to radiant heat. No injuries were reported. - Fire News photos by
Remembering the 343
Each year during the St. Patrick’s Day parade in New York City, the FDNYremembers the 343 members killed on September 11th 2001. Firefighters carry 343 American flags representing those lost. In the below photos, the firefighters pass St. Patrick's Cathedral where Cardinal Dolan blessed the 343 banner and those in the line of march.
- Photos by Brian Grogan, FDNY; Steve Grogan, Lynbrook FD PIO
Fight at Queens 2-AlarmerHampered by Weather
Astubborn, smoky two-alarm fire in a Queens private dwelling brought FDNYcompanies from around the borough on the afternoon of July 9, 2024. First arriving companies were met by heavy smoke and fire at the 2-1/2 story home on 221st Street in Queens
Village. The blaze extended to an adjacent house which necessitated a second alarm. The excessive heat and humidity conditions hampered firefighting operations.
- Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Quick Stop in Port Chester
On July 14, 2024, just after2130, the Port ChesterFire Department was dispatched to a reported structure fire on SeymourRoad. Crews arrived to find a smoke condition throughout the house with possible fire in the walls. At this time Chief Storino transmitted a working fire. Members quickly stretched a hoseline off Engine 60 into the structure and immediately went to work opening up the
walls and quickly knocking down the fire. Chief Sposta latertransmitted a 10-75 bringing the Town of Mamaroneck FASTand Scarsdale EMS Rehab to the scene. The fire was placed undercontrol at around 2230, and was being investigated by the Westchester County Cause and Origin Team.
- Fire News photos by Brandon Colon
2-AlarmerThreatens Day Care Center
On June 20, 2024, Schenectady firefighters were called out to battle a two-alarm fire in a large two-story home which threatened a day care centernext door. All occupants of the fire building escaped
safely and flames were kept from spreading to the day care center which was evacuated. The cause was listed as a faulty airconditioneron the second floor. - Fire News photos by Peter R. Barber
Town of Florida Groundbreaking forNew Firehouse
On August 1, 2024, a ceremony was held fora groundbreaking for a new firehouse in Florida. The new firehouse will be located on LowerBullshead Road. The new firehouse was needed to meet the needs of a new fire truck, which is longerand widerthan the current apparatus, to be delivered laterin the year. Many thanks go to C.T. Male Associates, Engineering, Surveying, Architecture and Landscaping to help in the design; F.H. Alexander, Inc. will be doing the building. Great support came from Town Supervisor Eric Mead and the Town Board. Left to right: Jake Gordon (representing CTMale), Kim Graff, Matt Wilson, Pam Van Alstine, Thomas Snyder(F.H. Alexander, Inc.), Harold Alikonis (Town Board Member). - Fire News photo by Mark Perfetti
Niskayuna Day Event
Niskayuna held its annual Niska Day parade and party on May 18, 2024. Hundreds of people and fire departments including Niskayuna 2, Stanford Heights and Verdoy along with local community clubs participated. This yearincluded an actual US Army tank
and othermilitary equipment. The parade ends at the school fora day of festivities and fireworks. - Submitted by Lori Washburn; Photos By Truck
Iconic Yonkers
Bakery Heavily Damaged
Just aftermidnight on July 13, 2024, fire heavily damaged one of Yonkers most popularand oldest bakeries. Originating as a fire alarm activation at Delite Bakery, first-due companies arrived to find a heavy smoke condition in the single-story bake shop located in the middle of a row of taxpayers. Asecond alarm was quickly transmitted as companies located the fire underneath and behind an oven. The fire was found to have extended to the floorjoists below and was brought undercontrol in just overan hour. Over50 firefighters from 14 companies responded.
- Fire News photos by Mike Messar
FF1 Class Graduates 23 Students
On June 29, 2024, Albany County Firefighter1 held its graduation ceremony at the Guilderland Fire Department. Forthe past six months these students completed 129 hours of training, both physical and classroom. This yearthey graduated 23 students ranging from 17- to an amazing 72-years old. Congratulations to all as they begin theircareers in the fire service.
- Submitted by Lori Washburn; Photo by Truck
Wallkill Unit in Oklahoma
Wallkill Fire Department sold its 1985 GMC/Saulsbury Mini-pumperto Carnegie (OK) Fire Department in 2006.
- Fire News photo by Steve Lenz
OSHA1910.156 Update
As of July 22, 2024, the comment period for the proposal by OSHAto amend its Fire Brigade Standard under 29 CFR Section 1910.156 has come to an end, with 3765 comments filed. The proposed amendment involved a comprehensive rewrite of the 1980 standard looking to establish a new Emergency Response Standard. If the proposed standard is implemented as posted in the National Register, these new regulations will have a severe and costly negative impact on both career and volunteer fire departments, EMS responders and other specialized units in New York and across the nation.
The fire service has highly stressed that the services are not opposed to the rules addressing first responder safety, however the proposed regulations will require an increase of 2 ½ times to the hours required for basic firefighter training. Many of the requirements for specific training classes are not available to local departments and will take extensive time to implement. Presently most fire officers and chiefs do not meet the new standards and would not be qualified to hold their positions. These leaders
By Myles Quinn,LIEditor
will not be able to receive the needed training within OSHA’s two-year implementation schedule.
Additionally, the regulations address changes to firefighter medical screenings, new apparatus and equipment, 10-year Personal Protective Equipment replacement, a focus on respiratory protection, more inspections, more paperwork, training requirements that will put an undue burden on any members’time commitments and dramatically increase insurance cost. These regulations will greatly affect all recruitment and retention programs. Specifically, the requirement to replace front-line fire apparatus every 15 years, at a cost between $800K to $1.5 million for a new engine or over $2 million for a ladder truck. Apparatus manufacturers can now take up to three to four years for delivery which make this regulation nearly impossible to meet for most jurisdictions.
Many other mandates will greatly increase the cost and create a severe financial burden of providing fire protection services on local fire departments, the states and local governments, small cities, villages and fire districts. There are
many additional operational, administrative and fiscal challenges. These major changes will increase taxes to comply with the new rules. These regulations could cause the operations of smaller fire departments to shutter and there could be imposed fines, citations and civil liability exposures should an injury or death occur.
Many members of our Congressional delegations and our US Senators have expressed support to achieve a compromise on these proposed regulations. Though an update was needed, these regulations are burdensome and overwhelming to an already struggling and overtaxed Fire and EMS Services. The Services hope that OSHAwill review the comments provided and modify the regulations they are proposing.
OSHAhas just recently posted that they are scheduling an informal, virtual, public hearing on its proposed rule “Emergency Response Standard.” Apublic hearing will begin on November 12, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. Eastern Time. As additional information on these hearing is made available, we will post and notify you.
Red Knights Ride
On May 29, 2024, the Red Knights NYChapterIII held theirannual ride to benefit America’s 9-11 Foundation. Riders from Florida to Canada came to participate in the ride. Over60 bikes and close to 100 riders participated in this year’s ride through the Adirondacks. - Submitted by Lori Washburn; Photos by Truck
NewtoTHEM
Menands Celebrates 100 Years
On June 1, 2024, the Village of Menands celebrated its 100th anniversary. Menands Fire Department, as well as many neighboring departments, joined dignitaries fora special day that included a
parade, live music and food at the newly erected Menands Farmers Market building. Congratulations to Menands. - Submitted by Lori Washburn; Photos by Truck
Community Day Community Day
theirladdertrucks
July 3, 2024, was Community Day and Winona Lake Engine Company and CronomerValley Fire Department used
to hold up the American flag as you entered. Good Will Fire Department and Winona Lake put on joint spread and laterenjoyed the fireworks. - Fire News photos by Vinnie Dominick
FUELINGINNOVATION AND UNITY: INSIDE THE EMS & FIRE PRO EXPO
The premier gathering for First Responders, the EMS & FIRE PRO Expo, established in 2014, is held annually in Connecticut. This annual event serves as a beacon of innovation and collaboration, drawing first responders from across the nation to share knowledge, discover cutting-edge technologies, and forge lasting connections.
At the EMS & FIRE PRO Expo, attendees immerse themselves in a dynamic environment where learning is paramount and camaraderie thrives. From informative workshops and interactive demonstrations to engaging networking sessions, every aspect of the expo is meticulously curated to enrich the attendee experience.
One of the standout features of the EMS & FIRE PRO Expo is its diverse lineup of speakers and presenters. Renowned experts in the field share insights into the latest trends, techniques, and best practices, empowering attendees to enhance their skills and stay ahead of the curve. Whether it’s an enlightening keynote address or a hands-on workshop led by seasoned professionals, each session offers invaluable opportunities for learning and growth.
equipment, innovative technologies, and essential resources for EMS and fire departments. Attendees have the chance to explore the latest products, engage with industry experts, and discover solutions to enhance their operations.
Beyond the educational offerings, the expo boasts a bustling exhibit hall filled with leading vendors showcasing state-of-the-art
But the EMS & FIRE PRO Expo is more than just a trade show, it’s a community. Attendees come together to share stories, celebrate successes, and support one another in their shared mission to serve and protect their communities. The sense of camaraderie and unity that permeates the event is palpable, creating an environment where lasting connections are forged and lifelong friendships are made.
As the largest and fastestgrowing EMS and fire expo on the East Coast, the EMS & FIRE PRO Expo is a must-attend event for anyone in the emergency services industry. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran looking to stay at the forefront of your field or a newcomer eager to learn from the best, the EMS & FIRE PRO Expo offers something for everyone. Join us for an unforgettable experience that will ignite your passion, inspire your work, and propel you to new heights in your bailiwick.
USFA50TH ANNIVERSARY
The United States Fire Administration (USFA) kicked-off its 50th anniversary celebration with a staff gathering at the National Fire Academy on July 11, 2024. During the campus event the 50th anniversary cake was cut by U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell and Branch Chief Smiley White. Chief White is the
longest serving USFAemployee and is still an active member of the Guardian Hose Company in Thurmont, Maryland, and an instructor with the Maryland Fire and Rescue Training Institute (MFRI). Additional anniversary events will occur throughout the year.
Scotia Fire Department Moves into New Firehouse
The Scotia Fire Department is pleased to announce the opening of its new fire station, located at 138 Mohawk Avenue, which began on July 3, 2024. Areferendum forthe Village of Scotia Municipal Project was approved by Scotia voters on June 7, 2022. Construction of the new station began on June 5, 2023. The fire station represents Phase 1 of a two-phase project forthe Village of Scotia. The Scotia Fire Department will be moving from 148 Mohawk Avenue which was constructed in 1908 and originally housed horse-drawn fire apparatus. Scotia is a combination fire department with both careerand volunteerfirefighters. The department celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2023. The new fire station will have many essential features that were not possible with the olderstation, including ADAaccessibility, separate changing and bathroom facilities, propervehicle exhaust ventilation, adequate room forall fire apparatus, properdecontamination areas, in-house training areas, and adequate storage areas forall fire and EMS gearand equipment.
- Chief David Wood, Scotia FD; photos by Mark Perfetti
