In honor of 65 years of service to our community, we have created a working document of our rich and colorful history. We have extracted every news article written about the Moyers Corners Fire Department. We have also transcribed all of the historic documents found lurking in the darkest corners of our fire stations.  Pictures will also be added in the near future. For now, enjoy a preview of what will become "A Comprehensive History of the MCFD." If you have anything to add, please let us know. The department hopes to one day release a book for all to enjoy, however our current "word" document is over 450 pages long at this point. An encyclopedia set may be more applicable! Enjoy, and thank you to everyone that has made the Moyers Corners Fire Department what it is today.

- Past Deputy Chief Steve Zaferakis, Chairmain, Historic Commitee (2017)

  

1947

 

Moyers Corners
     The northeast corner was a house owned by Mr. Philip Brand. On the southeast corner sat an open field(which became Suburban Propane). Carl’s Tavern was located on the southwest corner, while Mr. Lewis’ snack bar and garage sat on the nothwest corner. Open fields all belonging to Philip Brand. 

 

    Elaine Lewis recalled many conversations by the locals visiting the snack bar. A lot of comments revolved around the need of a fire department, because their only protection was an old fire truck stationed in Clay. There were many unscheduled meetings held in the snack bar, where Ken Brand, Sr., Mr. Haney, Mr. Lewis and others would meet for coffee. But unfortunately, nothing came out of these particular conversations. “You know men, they have good ideas, but it takes a push to get some action. It is either a wife behind a man, or something that gets them fired up before they move”, recalls Eileen. 

 

     A gentleman named Ken Brand, Sr. got the ball rolling on November 9, 1947, the day Lyman Melvin’s garage burned down. On that cold and damp November day, Ken found himself standing helplessly watching his friend’s garage burn to the ground. He waited for the Clay and Liverpool Fire Department to arrive. The Liverpool Fire Department stopped at the town line, telling Ken that they could not cross because they did not have the insurance coverage. The Clay Fire Department arrived with their old truck, but when they arrived, the men were practically carrying the fire truck instead of the fire truck carrying them. It just wouldn’t run and they had to push it to the fire. Ken threw his hat that crookedly sat atop his head on the ground as hard as he could and proclaimed, “By God, we’re gonna get a fire department here!”.  And they did, that very day. 

            Ken went from house to house looking for men interested in becoming members.  The first five members (Ken Brand, Ed Harke, Sr., Paul Marshall, Ed Melvin, and Lymon Melvin) formed the nucleus.  They were shortly joined by another half-dozen eager men, who all paid twenty dollar dues. Their first meeting was held in a cow barn with fifteen new members in attendance. For several months the only function of the new department was to meet occasionally and hold a ‘public hearing’ with the Town of Clay. They now had to figure out how and where to obtain a fire truck.

 

1948

 

March 12th, 1948
As their search for a fire engine progressed, fate stepped in and lent a friendly hand. On March 12, Ken was helping out at his friend Tony Louis’s gas station when a man pulled in with car trouble. During the course of conversation it developed that the man was in a hurry to get to Canton, NY to make an appointment with some prospective buyers of a fire engine he was selling.

 

“A what?” said Ken. “A fire engine,“ said the stranger. 
“What year?” asked Ken. “A 1922 American LaFrance“, proclaimed the stranger.
“Will you sell it to us?” “I’ll sell it to anybody”
“Mister, I think you just found your buyers.

 

Don’t go away, I’ll be right back!” With those words, Ken hurried home and called four other members. They unanimously agreed to purchase the truck. There was no contract with the Town of Clay; no means of support except the money which they would raise for themselves. They had a carnival, dances at the community hall and had ice cream socials to raise money to buy they truck. 

 

A crew drove to Batavia to take possession of their first piece of firefighting equipment.  It was an extremely cold day. The men took turns driving the truck back from Batavia, all wrapped up in blankets. The open cab was not offering any protection from the elements that day, which made for an extremely long and cold ride home. Their excitement kept them warm. 

 

The 1922 American LaFrance was purchased for five hundred dollars. The engine could hardly be called new, but the price was right. All of this happened so fast that no preparation had been made to house the “new truck”. For the next few months it was kept in Louis’ gas station. Phil Brand kept the ball rolling by donating the land for a building to house the truck. It was decided that the fire department would consist of forty active firemen. 

 

Plans for the firehouse followed.  Construction started in May of 1948. All of the members volunteered their time. Some of the men, such as Ken, Earl McWithey, Fred Harke, Paul Marshall, Buck Shader, and Ed Melvin even worked through half of the night. In addition, the men worked every weekend and every spare hour they had.  The building was soon completed in the fall of 1948, and the ‘new’ fire truck now had a home. By this time, Ken Brand Sr. built a new house next door to the firehouse. Ken’s wife Betty started on her own mission 

 

April 5th, 1948
The fire department was incorporated. See Appedix A

 

May 25th, 1948
     Betty (Brand) Hanlon invited the wives of the Moyers Corners Fire Department to her home for the purpose of forming an auxiliary. There were eighteen ladies present. Acting as chairperson, Betty opened the meeting by explaining the purpose of the auxiliary. It was explained the purpose of the auxiliary is to help our firemen in any way they needed. There was some comment on whether they were ready yet to form one, so a vote was taken. Everyone voted “yes”. “The Women’s Auxiliary of the Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department” was decided as the name. Next it was decided on how many members of the firemen’s family should be allowed to join. A vote was teken and the result was “one member from each firemen’s famile; they could either be wife, mother, sister, or daughter, but they must reside in the district.” By-laws from the Liverpool Fire Department Auxiliary were then read and discussed. A discussion was made about the possible meeting places for future meetings. It was decided to use Lyman Melvin’s barn. The majority agreed upon the last Wednesday of every month, the time to be at 8:00pm. Dues were set at 25 cents per month, to be paid every month at the meetings. After some deliberation, the majority decided officers should be elected at the first meeting. An election took place with acting chairman, Betty Brand, accepting nominations for President first.

 

Those nominated for President were:

 

Betty Brand – nominated by Helen Mackey, second by Grace Melvin
Marie Carter – nominated by Elaine Lewis, second by Louise Gillespy
Ballots were cast and the results were Betty Brand – 10, Marie Carter -8.
Nominations were then open for Vice President:
Jennie Dahl – nominated by Alice Haney, second by Grace Melvin
Caroline Samuels – nominated by Helen Mackey, second by Doris Bowley
Helen McWithey – nominated by Elaine Lewis, second by Betty Brand
Ballots were cast and the results were: Caroline Samuels – 8, Jennie Dahl – 5, Helen McWithey – 5
Nominations were open for Secretary:
Elaine Lewis – nominated by Jean Plummer, second by Helen McWithey
Doris Bowley – nominated by Jennie Dahl, second by Grace Melvin
Ballots were cast and the results were Doris Bowley – 12, Elaine Lewis -6
Nominations were open for Treasurer:
Geraldine Harke, nominated by Grace Melvin, second by Louise Gillespy
Margery Arnold, nominated by Helen Mackey, second by Elaine Lewis
Marie Carter, nominated by Helen Mackey, second by Betty Brand
Alice Haney, nominated by Elaine Lewis, second by Jennie Dahl
Mabel Yorman, nominated by Jean Plummer, second by Helen McWithey
Mary Mackey, nominated by Marie Carter, second by Helen Mackey
Ballots were casts and the results were Margery Arnold – 5, Marie Carter – 3, 
Geraldine Harke – 3, Mabel Yorman – 3, Mary Mackey – 2, Alice Haney – 2 

 

     It was agreed that they would have light refreshments following each meeting. Refreshments should consist of a beverage and not more than two foods. These are to prepared by a committee which will be appointed at each meeting. The committee for refreshements for the June meeting were appointed: Doris Buck, Caroline Samuels, and Grace Melvin. The President appointed a delegate to accompany her to the Association meeting held in North Syracuse in June. Mrs. Helen Mackey was the delegate appointed. This ended the first meeting. Alice Haney made the motion to adjourn the meeting at 11:45 p.m. Grace Melvin seconded the motion.
 
Auxiliary Charter Members:
Margery Arnold, Doris Bowley, Betty Brand (Hanlon), Doris Buck, Marie Carter (Hand), Jennie Dahl, Louise Gillespy, Alice Haney, Geraldine Harke, Betty Jensen, Elaine Lewis, Helen Mackey, Mary Mackey, Helen McWithey, Grace Melvin, Caroline Samuels, Mebel Yorman (Younglove) 

 

June 30th, 1948
     At the second meeting of the auxiliary, by-laws were formed .  Through the years, by –laws were changed many times, including the dropping of the word Ladies from the organization The auxiliary also joined the Onondaga County Auxiliary at North Syracuse, and joined the State Auxiliary in 1949. Delegates were appointed to the County and State. At this time, all members attended monthly county meetings, which were held at different firehouses

 

July 28th, 1948
     At the third meeting of the auxiliary, it was decided that the Vice President would send out get well cards. While the firemen worked on building the firehouse, the auxiliary helped by feeding the men, using the Brand’s house to do so. On Sundays, when the men would work on the firehouse all day, they were given their Sunday dinner. The meetings were held in their homes while the firehouse was constructed. The Auxiliary held card parties, white elephant sales, sold chances for a raffle, sold candy, held Dutch Maid and Stanley parties, and participated in many other fund raisers. During their first year, the auxiliary was able to purchase badges, raincoats, helmets and gloves for the firemen, as well as donating $100.00 through their various fund raising events. They had a good turn out no matter what the time or weather; if they were needed at the fire, they would be there as well.

 

September 10th, 1948
Herald Journal Night Edition
Truck knocks NYC Train off tracks

 

 

 

 

November 23rd, 1948
Herald Journal
Moyers Corners New Fire House Is Near Completion

 

 

 

 

    The land itself was a gift of Philip Brand, father of Kenneth Brand, fire chief.  The story of the communal project goes back to last February (1947), when a fire burned a barn to the ground about a mile south of Moyers Corners. There was no fire department near enough to check the blaze. In the absence of an engine, all neighbors could do was form a bucket brigade. The loss of the barn started Kenneth Brand, Harold Lewis, the present assistant chief, and Paul McWithey,  now treasurer planning a fire department of their own.

 

    They launched a busy fund campaign, holding dances, field days and other events to raise the price of a pumper. They finally collected $600 bought the engine and housed it in a barn at the corners. Last May, they obtained from the Town of Clay, a one-year firefighting license which is expected to be renewed. Then Brand, Lewis McWithey, Chief Engineer Paul Marshall, Assistant Engineer Sewel Haney and Secretary Robert Buck got to work on a permanent house. The barn-like building will have a kitchen and meeting hall behind the engine space and a dance floor and stage upstairs for community gatherings. The main function of course will be to fight fires. There will be no more lost barns form lack of equipment, the volunteers assert.

 

1949

 

     The Moyers Corners Fire Department was tested early in their existence. On February 3, the snack shop and gas station that once held the dreams and frustrations of the locals caught fire. The building was owned by Harold Lewis who helped start the fire department in 1948. The fireman had to use gas masks, fight burning oil and alcohol, and encountered countless dangerous obstacles. It was a cold day and it last from nine in the morning until three in the afternoon. The women were serving coffee to the chilled firemen, and for a week after the fire, these women came to help clean up debris and salvage anything they could. Damage was estimated at $3,500 and was confined to the garage on the back of the service station. Philip Brand and Ken Brand Sr. were in charge of the operation. 

 

February 3rd, 1949
Syracuse Herald Journal
One Hurt In Blaze At Moyers
     A volunteer fireman suffered minor burns and a number of others escaped injury fighting a fire in a combined garage, gasoline filling station, restaurant, bus station and home at Moyers Corners  this evening. Explosion of anti-freeze solution and cans of oil added to the confusion. Fireman Edward Karker of the Moyers Corners department, suffered burns on the hands when he was struck by a blazing timber. He was treated at the scene and refused to leave until the fire was out. The place is owned by Mr. and Mrs. Harold Lewis. They were in the restaurant section when a neighbor ran in to tell them the rear of the building was burning. Chief Kenneth Brand and his volunteers responded. Additional help came from Phoenix, Liverpool, and the New York Ordnance Works. Chief Brand said Lewis had recently received a 55 gallon drum of alcohol and the intense heat expanded the drum until it exploded and spilled its contents about the flooring to add fuel to the already rapidly spreading fire. This was followed by a series of firecracker explosions as cans of automobile engine oil exploded. Chief Brand said that for a time it appeared as though the building was doomed but the volunteers quickly brought the fire under control. The ordnance works sent one of its giant water tank trucks. Moyers Corners apparatus carried some 1,300 gallons and the volunteers from neighboring villages brought their own supplies. The fire wrecked the garage and living section of the building. Shortly before noon Lewis reported a cigar box containing money he had left in the bedroom was missing and fireman began searching through the debris for the money.

 

     In the spring of 1949 the fire department received another call, but in a roundabout way. A grass fire got out of control within the area to be served by the department, but the new fire barn had no phone to call an emergency into. The call was made to the Clay Fire Department, who rushed over to Moyers Corners to tell them they had a fire. A far cry from the enhanced 911 system used today, through which each volunteer is notified instantaneously by pager and cell phone as a fire call goes out.

 

     Twenty fire calls were answered in their first year of service to the Town of Clay. It was discovered very shortly that the old 1922 American LaFrance couldn’t carry enough water to battle anything bigger than a small grass fire. 

 

    On April 14th, 1949 a second truck was purchased; this, a 1938 GMC oil tanker, 1500 gallon tank,  was converted to hold water, and thereafter accompanied the American LaFrance on all its calls. The tanker was purchased by Tony Lewis. Total cost was $600.

 

Auxiliary
In the Summer of 1949, under a tent that stood across from where Station 1 is today, the auxiliary held their first Field Days. In September of 1949, they held their first meeting at the new firehouse. The auxiliary joined the Onondaga County Auxiliary of North Syracuse, and later joined the New York State Auxiliary in May 1949. 

 

August 19th, 1949
Flames Destroy Hay Baler Near Moyers Corners
The Post-Standard
A fire which broke out in a straw bailer on the farm of Ernest Hlggs In the Moyers-Corners- Euclid road last week Tuesday afternoon destroyed the bailer and burned thru a straw stack and a cut field. Damage was estimated at more than $1,000 which reportedly was covered by Insurance. The fire was started by sparks from the balling machine, fire fighters said, and spread to the direction of the Higgs farm buildings. Approximately 30 firemen and neighbors brought the field fire under control before it reached the building area. They dug trenches around the field to control the spread of the fire. The fire In the stack and the bailer then was extinguished with the Moyers Corners volunteer fire department truck pump and hand pumps. The bailer was pulled from the straw stack by two tractors. The Moyers Corners truck was moved to the scene by N. E. Dahl who operates a garage and truck stop at Moyers Corners and his assistant, Walter Pientka. Later a tank truck was taken to the fire scene. From eight to 10 tons of straw were destroyed and the balling machine was damaged badly.

 

 

 

1950

 

New Apparatus: Squad Car

 

Auxiliary
      They held the field days under tents on Elmcrest Road. They bought uniforms and accessories to start marching. The won first prize at Baldwinsville. All members marched with 2 girl scouts carrying the auxiliary banner. Barb Brand and Joanne Donohue used to carry the auxiliary banner for the marchers when they were girl scouts. In 1950, the Auxiliary gave the firemen $100.00 to purchase a 1.5” nozzle and new coats. Shortly after, they held a kitchen shower to stock their kitchen.

 

January 28th, 1950
     Moyers Corners responded mutual aid to Phoenix to the Phoenix Paper Mill. Vernon Thompson called it in to the Dahl’s Garage at 7 p.m. Moyers Corners arrived first. They laid 500 feet of 2.5” hose and 500 feet of 1.5” line and pumped from the river. Twenty five men responded under the direction of Chief Brand.

 

 March 16th, 1950
Letter from William Arnold
Secretary of the Moyers Corners Fire Department

 

To Mr. and Mrs. Philip Brand

 

Dear Sir and Madam,

 

     As Secretary of the above named Fire Department, I have been designated to send you the official token of thanks and appreciation. The whole membership unites in expressing their gratitude for this additional gift of land. In case you never received an acknowledgement of the original gift that helped so much to make possible our present position, please accept this as it. We hope that it will always be remembered that Mr. and Mrs. Philip Brand gave us our building site and helped in every way possible to make the 
Moyers Corners Fire Department the success it is today. 

 

May 9th, 1950
The Post-Standard
Moyer’s Corners Blaze Is Quelled

 

 

 

 

July 5th, 1950
Paul Dudley, son of charter member Willard Dudley was burned by hot water. First and second degree burns were encountered. He was rushed to the hospital by Cecil Gillespy.

 

1951

 

Strike It Rich!
The auxiliary now set out to purchase an ambulance. Always creative and ambitious, the ladies wrote to Warren Hull, informing him that they needed to raise money for this worthy cause. Mr. Hull invited them to be on his television program “Strike it Rich” in New York City.

 

Strike It Rich was a controversial game show that aired on American radio and television from 1947 to 1958 on CBS and NBC. People in need of money (such as for medical treatment or a destitute family) appeared and told their tale of woe, then tried to win money by answering some relatively easy questions. If the contestant didn't win any money, the emcee opened the "Heart Line", which was a phone line to viewers who wished to donate to the contestant's family. On May 1, 1950 the show moved to NBC where it aired on weekdays, sponsored by Colgate, until December 27, 1957. While a simple format, the show was controversial during the 11 years it aired. While some applauded Strike It Rich for helping out some less-fortunate people (as well as showcasing the sincere charity and good-will of viewers who donated through the Heart Line), others found it a sickening spectacle that exploited the less-fortunate contestants for the vicarious thrills of the viewers and the selfish gain of the sponsors. Part of the criticism was it promised more than it could deliver. Though the show received between 3,000 and 5,000 letters per week from needy people wishing to win what would be (to them) life-changing sums of money, only a small fraction of those could be selected; although this was partly due to the limits of television production (that the series, although ambitious in its goals, could not reasonably assist every person needing help at the same time), critics stated that the show picked mostly those thought to have the most interesting tales of woe.

 

Nine ladies went down to the big apple and were on the TV program, however they did not come back with the $500 prize they hoped for. 

 

September 13th, 1951
The Post-Standard
Auxiliary loses in radio quiz, but gifts up ambulance fund

 

 

 

 

By the way, the correct answer was Louis Arthur Johnson. 

 

With the ever present hard work and fundraising, they raised the entire $500 needed to buy the ambulance. The auxiliary also helped to furnish the ambulance, and took over payments of the insurance. The auxiliary continued to pay for the insurance on the next three ambulances purchased by the department.

 

January 14th, 1951
Herald Journal
Moyers Corners Girl Crushed in Auto Crash

 

 

 

 

January 24th, 1951
The Post-Standard
Moyers Corners Home Swept by Night Fire

 

Wind-lashed flames last night swept thru the bungalow home of Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Bogard in Wetzel Rd, about two and half miles outh of Moyers Corners. No one was injured. Fire Chief Kenneth Brand of the Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department said an oil stove explosion set off the blaze about 9:30 p.m. He said about 20 members of his own department responded to the alarm. When firemen arrived at the scene flames were pouring from all the windows of the five-room frame house. Mutual Aid was contacted and about 20 members of the Liverpool Fire Department responded with two pieces of apparatus. Bogart said the stove was in the dining room. When it exploded he threw a blanket over it and kicked out a window in an attempt to throw it out of the hosue. However, the heat forced him to abandon the plan. Flames spread instantly to the living room and kitchen and broke thru the ceiling into the sub-attic. Firemen prevented the blaze from going thru the roof. A house trailer about 10 feet from the building was only scorched. It had been used as a home for the Bogarts while they built their new home, which was still unfinished.

 

May 17th, 1951
Neighbors Form Planting Party to Help Stricken Moyers Corners Farmer
The Post-Standard

 

Farmers in the Moyers Corners section turned out yesterday to help Earl E. McWithey past planting time on his Route 57 farm after illness last Friday put him out of action. Eleven farmers were counted at one time on the farm north of Liverpool and two other men lent equipment to be used in preparing land for oats and corn. McWithey, who operates a general dairy farm, has been in bed since Friday. Lyman Melvin, a Moyers Corners area farmer, has been doing the milking and other farm chores and Tuesday night decided he would take over the planting operation. Other members of the Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department in which both McWithey and Melin are members decided they hould have a part. Working tractors on a back lot of the McWithey farm yesterday were lelvin, his son,. Edwin, and his brother, Howard; Robert Samuels, Hubert Schmidt and his son, Gustave Schmidt, Frederick Hoover, Valter Rosenberger, Harvey Bettiner, Frank Young, Jr. and Clifford 'lumber. Some brought their own ractors and others had equipment borrowed from Henry Melvin of Baldwinsville and James Melvin. The work crew had help from the fire department auxiliary, including Mrs. Norma Kosenberger, Mrs. Grace Melvin, Mrs. Betty Brand, Mrs. Betty Jensen and Mrs. McWithey. The five women prepared dinner in the fire department and Mrs. Rosenberger and Mrs. Melvin assisted the men in the field hauling supplies and water in a pickup truck.

 

 December 10th, 1951
There was an ambulance call at Three Rivers Inn. It was called in by Tony Lewis at 10:10 pm. The ambulance arrived at the Fulton Hospital at 10:25 pm. They transported two patients. Driver of the ambulance was Ken Brand, attendants were Cecil Gillespy and Elaine Lewis. Female patient died after admittance.

 

 

 

1952

 

New Apparatus:
GMS/Sanford, ID 396, Assigned to Station 2
First Ambulance 1942 Buick

 

The fire department continued to operate with the 1922 American LaFrance and the acquired 1942 oil tanker that was converted into a water truck. In 1952, Moyers Corners purchased their first brand new truck, a 1952 GMC/Sanford pumper, a “Jimmy” engine with a 500 gallon per minute pump and a 500 gallon tank.  It manned two in the cab and four on the tailboard.

 

  
Twenty five fire calls and thirty ambulance calls were answered in 1952.

 

Later that year, the GMC was moved to Melvin's barn on Rt 57, eventually to become Moyers Corners Station 2, located where the Wegman's is today ) from 1960-1971. The GMC was the first Station Two engine company, and it serviced the Station Two response area up until 1981.

 

The auxiliary purchased the first ambulance for five hundred dollars. It was a 1942 Buick Ambulance. They took full responsibility for the ambulance including insurance and supplies for several years. . The first ambulance was used basically to pick up injured people and quickly transport them to the nearest hospital. There were emergency medical technicians or paramedics, no advanced equipment. Most treatment was done at the hospital. Ken Brand Sr., Bill Arnold and Cecil Gillespy were a few of the regular crew for the first ambulance.

 

As time progressed, advanced equipment was purchased. This equipment included a cardiac monitor, stair chair, neonatal resuscitator, power pack, rescue kit and rescue saw. As the insurance increased, they only paid half. Some of the girls took first aid and road in the ambulance. They would also ride on the ambulance and assist with relay of patients from one city to another on the New York State Thruway.

 

January 29th, 1952
Herald Journal
Fire is Fought in Zero Weather
      Moyers Corners fought a fire for three hours last night in zero weather at the recently constructed residence of Karl Biola, about three miles north of Liverpool. Chief Kenneth Brand of Moyers Corners, who estimated damage at $3000 said that the blaze was caused by a short circuit in the water pump motor. Clay and Belgium Cold Springs volunteer fire departments responded to a mutual aid call, Chief Brand said.

 

July 31st, 1952
Herald Journal
Paul Marshall says the Moyers Corners firemen have planned a canvas of their fire district tomorrow to raise funds to purchase new equipment

 

July 31st, 1952
Card of Thanks
We sincerely wish to thank all our friends and neighbors for their assistance since my illness and stay in the hospital. I want to especially thank the Volunteer Fire Department of Moyers Corners for the use of their ambulance.

 

Mr. and Mrs. Bob Loreman

 

November 17th, 1952
The Post-Standard
Firemen Converge On Liverpool for Mutual Aid Test
A mutual aid practice of northern seection volunteer fire departments of Onondaga County was held in Liverpool yesterday with the Salt Museum on Onondaga Lake pwky. the target. Nine pumpers were called to aid the Liverpool department and a multiple relay of six pumpers was ret up to pump water from Or.ondaga Lake to the mock fire scene. Three other companies formed a relay to pour more water to the target area. Departments responding to the callup were: Brewerton under Chief Millard Rogers; Clay with Chief Earl Laura, North Syracuse with Assistand Chief Charles Mayer, Cold Spring-Belgium with Chief Henry Melvin, Seneca River with Chief John McWilliams, Lyncourt with Chief Henry Elmer, Mattydale with Assistand Chief Hubert Baker, and Liverpool under Lt. Clifford Wolever. The Hinsdale department under Chief James Lasher moved into the Liverpool barn. An ambulance from Moyers Corners with Chief Kenneth Brand stood by at the mock target. Baldwinsville, Phoenix, Cicero, Cody, Lysander, and Plainville were alerted for a possible second call. Liverpool Fire Chief Clarence Root responded with the two pumpers when the alarm was sounded at 8 a.m. and called for mutual aid to the Onondaga county mutual aid headquarters at Mattydale with all pumpers in place an pumping within half and hour. Assisting Chief Root in the practice mutual aid call were Assistant Chief Ernest Holmes of Liverpool, cunty fire co-ordinator: Mattydale Fire Chief Arnold Zampi and Norther Syracuse Chief Lester Potter, northern section co-ordinators.

 

1953

 

 

 

April 6th, 1953
The Post-Standard
Emergency Call in Heart Attack Case Puts Sheriff on ‘No Ambulance’ Spot
     "A man just had a heart attack and I can't get an ambulance with a doctor on it." That was the not unusual situation Acting Sgt. C. J. (Pat) Rooney, Onondaga County sheriffs department, encountered last night when Louis Lutche, 53, Pennellville RD, suffered a serious heart attack near Carl's Diner, Moyers Corners. Someone at the diner called the sheriff's department for assistance, A doctor and an ambulance was needed immediately.

 

Rooney couldn't fill the request, through no fault of his. He called Onondaga General Hospital. There was an ambulance there, but no doctor. That possibility was out, University and Grouse-Irving Hospital ambulances were out on other calls. He had no ambulance to send on the call. Trying to get help to the man as quickly as possible. Sgt. Rooney called the Moyers fire department ambulance and asked them to pick up the man and start for the city. He called sheriff's prowl cars to hurry to the scene and give the ambulance an escort into the city. City police, monitoring the sheriffs calls arranged to have a motorcycle pick up the mercy cavalcade at the city limits. But Rooney's job was only half done. He still didn't have a doctor to attend the man, nor a hospital

 

where he could be taken. He started calling hospitals. He called four hospitals before he could find a bed for the man. Finally he found Crouse-Irving Hospital had a bed for the heart attack victim, and a doctor available to administer to his needs. In the meantime the ambulance was picking up the man and heading for Syracuse, with the sheriff’s escort. The sheriffs department had lost no time in responding to the call, but encountered what deputy sheriffs say is a frequent block—no doctor, no ambulance available when it is urgently need.

 

At Crouse-Irving Hospital last night, Lutche was reported in critical condition. Sheriffs deputies and policemen of all echelons have heard much about the propsed new ambulance service which will make an emergency vehicle available at an. instant's notice any time of the day or night. They would like to see it become a reality, and they would like to know that when "they risk their necks to respond to an emergency call to help someone, that they can also get u doctor in a reasonably short, time to give medical assistance if that in needed.

 

November 10, 1953
Herald Journal
A FAMILY of eight was left homeless Sunday when fire destroyed their home at Horseshoe Island, Town of Clay. Mr. and Mrs. Leslie Brock and their six children were not able to salvage anything. The family was at breakfast when they heard the roar of the fire that started on the upper floor near the chimney. The Moyers Corners and Phoenix Fire Departments answered the alarm, but could not save the home. Red Cross representatives immediately began a drive to collect clothing for the family, residing temporarily in the home of Alvin Dunn.

 

1953 Inventory: 8 Coats, 2 regular helmets, 2 2.5” nozzles play pipes, 11 pails, 2- 2.5 gallon fire extinguisher foam, 3 hand lights, 4 water extinguishers, 3 lengths of 4” hard suction, 1 2” hard suction, 500 ft of 1.5” hose, 1000 ft. of 2.5” hose, 1 smoke mask, 3 1.5 nozzles ½ off then fog, 1 siamese gated Y, 1938 GMC tank truck, 1500 gallons, Siren with light, 2 red lights in front, 2 red lights in back, 1 white spot light on back of cab.

 

Grace Melvin, Auxiliary Life Member, and wife of Lymon Melvin, would activate the siren on the fire barn when the fire phone rang. The men would come and get the engine.

 

1954

 

Baldwinsville Messenger
Mrs. Karker is elected head of Auxiliary
The Ladies Auxiliary to the Moyers Corners Fire Department held Its monthly meeting at the fire house last week Wednesday evening. Election of officers took plate and the following officers were elected for the coming year — President Mrs. Hattie Karker, Vice President Mrs. Doris Bowley, Recording Secretary Mrs. Clara Marshall, re-elected Corresponding Secretary Mrs. Alice Haney and re-elected Treasurer Mrs. Elaine Lewis. Mrs. Alberta Dudley and Miss Lorraine Haney were named county delegates.

 

 

 

1955

 

Chief Ken Brand Sr. 
Asst Chief Cecil Gillespy
Chief Engineer Paul Marshall
Asst. Engineer Roy Mackey
2nd asst Engineer Anthony Rybinski
Treasurer William Dershang
Secretary Thomas Hunte
Asst. Secretary Hubert Schmidt
Fire Police Earl McWithey

 

March 26th, 1955
Mutual Aid to BCSFD
Hayes Road fire

 

May 27th, 1955
Moyers Corners Firemen Open First Aid Station
Herald Journal
     American Red Cross highway first aid station number four was now a reality!  Official ceremonies were conducted at Moyers Corners volunteer fire station where the local Red Cross chapter has established a new highway first aid station. About 32 residents of the Moyers Corners vicinity service the new station. Twenty-four men and eight women have been trained in first aid techniques and stand ready to administer initial assistance to victims of accidents on the highway. The first aid group at Moyers Corners, headed by Chief Brand, includes many of the volunteer firemen and is augmented by the ladies auxiliary, all trained in first aid.

 

     The Moyers Corners volunteer fire station, at the junction of Route 57 and Route 31, was chosen as the most logical and convenient spot for the new first aid center. Red Cross officials and Chief Kenneth Brand exchanged mutual documents of agreement. Now Red Cross has become the official administrator of the first aid station, a responsibility which entails the re-supplying of first aid equipment whenever necessary, and full cooperation with the volunteers who man the station. In addition to written agreements, Red Cross safety services department staff members also delivered to the station a fully-equipped first aid kit containing blankets, splints, inhalants and other similar articles, along with a stretcher. This becomes the property of the volunteer first aid staff.

 

 

 

June 22, 1955
The Baldwinsville Messenger
Seek Funds for Moyers Corners New Ambulance
    The women of the auxiliary of Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department have started a campaign to raise funds for the purchase of a new ambulance for the department. This would replace the one now in use. All proceeds from a smoker-ette to be held Saturday, June 23 at 8 p.m. at the fire house will go into this fund.

 

 

 

July 12, 1955
5 County Fire Companies Respond to Grass Blazes
Herald Journal
     County firemen north of the city had a busy time yesterday afternoon. About 3:30 p.m. a hay bailer set a field of hay afire on the Harry Schriver farm about one mile east of Baldwinsville on Route 31. Fireman from Belgium-Cold Springs, Baldwinsville, North Syracuse and Moyers Corners responded. They battled a moderate breeze and confined the flames to about four acres of hayfield. Chief Carl Belzer, of the Belgium- Cold Springs Company, said firemen were successful in keeping the flames from jumping a hedgerow and setting an adjoining field of wheat afire. As firefighters were bringing the blaze under control a grass fire broke out at the Harris Turkey Farm, an Route 57 between Moyers Corners and Liverpool. Moyers Corners firemen pulled out from the Baldwinsville fire and assisted Liverpool check the grass fire.

 

 

 

September 20th, 1955
Herald Journal
100 County firemen battle mock blaze
     More than 100 volunteer firemen from 15 Onondaga County departments last night "fought" a mock fire at the Town Line Rd plant of the Brown-Lipe-Chapin Division of General Motors. It was described as the "biggest and best practice drill' ever; staged by the county's volunteer firemen." The "fire" was discovered at 7-p.m. on the rool by s. member of the company fire team. At 7:03 the Lyncourt Department, in whose district the plant lies, got the alarm.

 

     Six minutes later Lyncourt firemen, under Chief Cliff Grunder, arrived. He sized up the situation and radioed the county fire control center for mutual aid. Then Dispatcher Bill McRorie went to work. Within two minutes he alerted the 14 other departments and got them rolling towards the plant. Twenty-one pieces of equipment, including pumpers, light trucks, ladder trucks and ambulances, sped to the scene. The firemen worked as if the plant was actually afire. Purpose of the drill was to check the mutual aid communications system, give the firemen experience in covering a large fire and to help the plant evaluate the efficiency of its fire protection facilities.Departments, besides Lyncourt, which participated in the test were Mattydale, Hinsdale, ,East Syracuse, Liverpool, DeWitt, North Syracuse, Bridgeport, Cicero, Minoa, Fayelteville, Seneca River, Phoenix, Baldwinsville and Moyers Corners.

 

September 1955
     The Moyers Corners Fire Department burned the mortgage on its firehouse at a covered dish dinner. The department started in 1948, now has a membership of 40 volunteers under Chief Kenneth Brand. Construction of the present firehouse was started in 1949 on a lot donated by Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Brand. The structure consists of a large engine room, modern dining room and kitchen, with a dance hall and stage on the second floor. Equipment includes a new pumper, a 1400 gallon water tank and auxiliary pump, and an ambulance, with the pumper and ambulance being equipped with two-way radios. Recently, the firehouse was designated as a first aid station. The auxiliary is one of the most active in the county. The auxiliary is one of the most active in the county.

 

September 1955
BURN MORTGAGE
     The Moyers Corners Volunteer Firemen and their families enjoyed a supper at the fire house Saturday evening at which time the burning of the mortgage took place.

 

October 27th, 1955
Herald Journal
School Fire Protection Broadened
     Eight communities in the northern section of Onondaga County are setting the pace for school fire protection in this area, with immediate move ups in case of emergency. Automatic mutual aid for school fires, major or slight, is in effect at Liverpool, Lyncourt, Mattydale, North Syracuse, Baldwinsville, Moyers Corners, Phoenix and Fabius, Onondaga County Fire Coordinator  Ernest Holmes of Liverpool said chiefs of the departments involved have worked out the plans among themselves. He added that the idea has "considerable merit, especially when schools are in session." Although communities now having the mutual aid school protection all have fire departments in the northern section of Onondaga County, Holmes said he understands various communities in the western and southern portions have it under consideration. Should a fire break out in one of Liverpool's schools, that village's department would speed all of its apparatus to the scene. Mutual aid would be dispatched immediately from North Mattydale. In case of a school emergency in Lyncourt, aid would come from Mattydale, Hinsdale and North Syracuse. A school fire In Mattydale would bring additional help from North Syracuse, Hinsdale and Lyncourt. In North Syracuse, Mattydale, Cicero and Lyncourt would aid that village's volunteer department. Baldwinsville would be aided  by Liverpool and Phoenix; Moyers Corners would get help from Belgium-Cold Springs and Clay; Phoenix would be reinforced by firemen and apparatus from Baldwinsville and Liverpool.

 

November 5th, 1955
Herald Journal
     A delivery truck driver suffered cuts and bruises early today when his vehicle crashed into a ditch in the Town of Clay. The driver, Orin McDougall, 40, of RD 2, Clay, was reported in "fair" condition this morning at St. Joseph's Hospital. Minetto troopers said McDougall was driving north on Morgan Rd. about 1:30 am today, when his truck skidded a half mile south of Schroeppel's Bridge. The vehicle spun into a culvert. He was taken to the hospital by the Moyers Corners Fire Department ambulance.

 

 

 

December 10th, 1955
Herald Journal
Moyers Corners gets ambulance
Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department recently purchased a fully equipped ambulance with proceeds from a September Ambulance      Fund drive. The announcement was made by William Derschang, secretary, who said the Ladies Auxiliary also contributed towards the purchase.

 

 

 

1956

 

Mrs. Brand is President of County Auxiliary
     Twenty-six members of the Ladies Auxiliary to the Moyers Corners Fire Department attended the monthly meeting of the Auxiliary to the Onondaga County Volunteer Firemen’s Association at Split Rock High School last Tuesday evening. Mrs. Betty Brand, a member of the Moyers Corners Auxiliary, was installed as President of the county unit. Moyers Corners Auxiliary was installing staff with Mrs. Hattie Karker as installing officer.

 

June 2nd, 1956
Syracuse Herald Journal
Fire Ruins Island Home
     A housewife, alone in a home on Horseshoe Island in Oneida River, narrowly escaped serious injury or death yesterday when an oil stove exploded as she was standing in front, of it. Mrs. Anne Maxwell was not injured firemen said, because the explosion blew out the back of the stove. Flames immediately spread throughout the room and then the rest of the two-story building. Interior of the building was destroyed. Damage was estimated at $7,000, Fire Chief Kenneth Brand, of Moyers Corners Fire Department, in estimating the damage, said he understood that the contents of the building were covered by insurance. The Moyers Corners Department was aided by Phoenix firemen. The building is located on the island, about 5 miles northeast of Moyers' Corners.

 

 

 

September 23rd, 1956
Herald Journal
Fire companies prove efficiency in Phoenix
     Twenty fire departments from Onondaga and Oswego Counties responded to an alarm set off at 6:30 yesterday in Phoenix in commemoration at the 40th anniversary of a million dollar fire that destroyed the Phoenix business section Sept. 24, 1916. Several hundred persons watched as modern firefighting equipment was demonstrated along the Oswego River bank in the village. Homer Bowman, Phoenix Fire Chief, estimated that 100,000 gallons of water was showered into the river each minute. He compared this with the 1,500 gallons of water that could be pumped 40 years ago. Moyers Corners was the first department to arrive on the scene after the call went in, followed by the Volney Center department. The companies arrived 10 minutes after the alarm. No company took more than 26 minutes to reach the scene, while 40 years ago, when horse drawn vehicles were in use it took three hours for the companies from the Syracuse area.

 

November 23, 1956
Herald Journal
Baby girl, father are victims.
     A Phoenix man and his two-year-old daughter were killed today when their auto skidded into the path of an oncoming- tractor-trailer in snow-covered Route 57, six miles north of Liverpool. State Police and the Onondaga County Coroner’s office identified them as: Edward S. Dodd, 29, of R.D.I, Pennellville, driver of the automobile, father of five children and a taxicab driver at the Yates Hotel. Dr. Harry Gilmore, coroner, had not signed death certificates late this afternoon and no cause of death was listed. The deaths boosted Onondaga County's highway fatalities for 1956 to 59 and brought a plea from Sheriff Albert E, Stone for all drivers to be cautious in this wintry weather because "it could happen to you." Seriously hurt was Dodd's wife Nancy, 24. She is m St. Joseph's Hospital with a possible skull fracture. State Trooper John Rogers said Mr. and Mrs. Dodd and their five children were in the northbound auto when the accident occurred approximately 150 feet north of Moyers Corners. Moyers Corners is at the intersection of Routes 31 and 57. Rogers and Trooper R. G. Carle said Dodd's auto slipped off the 'highway, then skidded across the road into the path of a tractor trailer loaded with steel. They identified the truck driver as Theodore Force, 32, of 1 Mary St., Oswego. The troopers said he attempted to swerve off the road to avoid the collision but struck the left side of the Dodd auto. The children were identified as Edward, 7; David, 5; Robert, 3; and Thomas, two months. Rogers raid blankets wrapped around the baby saved its life. Members of the Moyers Corners Fire Department took the injured from the wreckage to St. Joseph's Hospital. Only one of the children was to be admitted, hospital attendants indicated. The coroner's office said the bodies are being released to the Hopkins Funeral Home, Phoenix

 

 

 

1957

 

17 Fire calls were answered in 1957 

 

November 1957
The Baldwinsville Messenger
Auxiliary Plans Harvest Dance
     The Moyers Corners Volunteer Firemen's Ladles Auxiliary will sponsor a Harvest Dance at the Moyers Corners Fire House Saturday, November 16. There will be- round and square dancing. Dancing will be from 9 to 1. There will be a prize given away.

 

April 13th, 1957
Baldwinsville Messenger
Chief Brand is Re-elected by Fire Department
     The Moyers Comers Volunteer Firemen held their annual election of officers at the Fire House Thursday evening. Officers ejected for the coming year are Kenneth Brand, re-elected chief; William Derschang, re-elected tothe secretary office; Cecil Gillespy, assistant chief:, Paul Marshall- chief engineer; William Arnold, first assistant engineer, Phillip Beck, second assistant engineer; Richard Dudley, treasurer; and Carl Lyons, assistant secretary. Chief Brand appointed Hubert Schmidts Earl Me-Wlthey and Richard Jackson as fire police

 

 July 4th, 1957
Seneca Takes Life of Boy
Gazette and Farmers’ Journal, Baldwinsville
     His parents said he was playing with a rope in the water from the dock shortly before 10 a. m. They noticed he was missing .about 20 minutes later.  A search was begun immediately as four volunteer fire companies arrived on the scene with dragging equipment. The youngster's body came to the surface two camps east of Mrs. Hallfedt's home and was taken to shore. Ambulance attendants, firemen and a physician worked over the boy until he was pronounced dead. Onondaga County Coroner Dr. Harry L. Gilmore issued a verdict of accidental death by drowning. Seneca River and Moyers Corners fire departments assisted in the rescue attempt with sheriff's deputies and county park police. Baldwinsville and Liverpool departments, with pulmatory equipment,  were summoned. The boy was taken to the county morgue in the Liverpool department’s ambulance and later transferred to a funeral home. He was a pupil of Salem Hyde school in Syracuse.

 

August 11th, 1957
Ladies pushball champions Mattydale Fire Department annual parade. Men marched in the parade.

 

Sept 21st, 1957
Ladies held a roast beef family style dinner at the firehouse

 

 

 

1958

 

New Apparatus: 1958 Ambulance

 

25 fire calls were answered in 1958

 

June 1958
The Moyers Corners Volunteer Firemen and Ladies Auxiliary marched in the field day s parade Saturday afternoon at Minoa. The auxiliary won second prize for full dress uniform.

 

March 8th, 1958
The Ladies Auxiliary to the Moyers Corners Fire Department held its monthly meeting at the Fire House Wednesday evening last week. Final plans were completed for the Fashion Show to be held at 8 p.m. Saturday. Refreshments will be served and there will be a door prize. Gentlemen are invited, too. Fashion from Lucy's Dress. Shop in Phoenix will be modeled.

 

 

 

1959

 

22 Calls were answered in 1959

 

May 1959
Ladies Present Cardiac Counter to Firemen
     The Moyers Corners Ladies Auxiliary to the Fire Department purchased a cardiac counter and presented it to the firemen for use in the ambulance and whenever needed.

 

February 9th, 1959
Herald Journal
Fire Damages Home with $6,000 Loss
     PHOENIX — Flames believed to have started from wiring in the cellar caused damage estimated At over $6.000 to the two-story frame home of Mr. and Mrs. George W. Jamleson in 1453 Main St. last night. The couple had been visiting at their son's home several blocks away and came home at 7:30 p.m to see flames shooting from around the garage door and door to their home. Members of the Phoenix volunteer fire department rushed to the scene and were assisted by the Moyers Corners firemen. Baldwinsville sent in a fire truck lo cover at the Phoenix station under the Onondaga County mutual aid system.

 

October 29th, 1959
Firemen and auxiliary will sponsor dance
Baldwinsville Messenger
     The Ladies Auxiliary to the Moyers Corners Fire Department will sponsor a Halloween Dance Saturday, with music by Millard Blakeslee. Door prizes, refreshments and dancing from 9 to 1 will be featured.

 

 

 

1960

 

 

 

New Apparatus: Ward LaFrance Engine, Pre-1975 ID 391, then TP1 assigned to Station 1.  Also went to Station 3 as TP1.

 

36 calls were answered in 1960

 

May 5th, 1960
Alice Haney is Re-elected Head of Auxiliary
     The Ladies Auxiliary to the Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department held its annual election at their monthly meeting last week Wednesday evening at the fire house. Elected for the coming year were President Alice Haney (re-elected), Vice President Ruth Dudley, Re-elected Secretary Clara Marshall, Re-elected Treasurer Betty Brand, Corresponding Secretary Lorraine Sahm. Louise Gillespy was appointed chaplain. Installation will take place prior to the May meeting.

 

 February 19th , 1960
The Baldwinsville Messenger
     WHEREAS, pursuant to Article II, Section 184 of the Town Law, the Town of Clay, located in the County of Onondaga, New York, is authorizod to provide for the furnishing of protection within fire protection districts established within said Town, and WHEREAS, the Town Board of the Town of Clay has heretofore duly established a fire protection district known as the 'Town of Clay Fire Protection District," and WHEREAS, fire protection contracts in existence are about to expire, and WHEREAS, the Town Board of the Town of Clay is desirous of providing for fire protection to the said Town of Clay Fire Protection District, and WHEREAS, the Village of North Syracuse, The Village of Liverpool, Clay Volunteer Fire Department, Inc., Brewerton Fire District and Moyers Comers Fire Department have offered to furnish fire protection to said fire protection district for a period of one year.

 

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

 

1. That a public hearing shall be held on the 11th day of March, 1960, at the Town Building of the Town of Clay, located in Euclid, New York, at 8:00 o'clock P.M., for the purpose of considering the contracting with the Village of North Syracuse, The Village of Liverpool, Clay Volunteer Fire Department, Inc., Brewerton Fire , Moyers Corners Fire Department, Inc. for fire protection to be furnished by the above to the fire protection district established in the Town of Clay and known as the Town of Clay Fire Protection District upon the following general terms: (a) The respective fire departments shall furnish fire protection for a five year period commencing January 1, 1960 to the respective areas designated on a certain map entitled “Clay Fire Protection Contract Service Areas. Town of Clay, revised Feb. 15, 1960" on file in the Office of the Clerk of the Town of Clay. (b) For such service the respective fire departments shall receive sums equal to the product obtained by multiplying the total amount levied for fire protection in the Town of Clay Fire Protection District for the particular year involved, by the sum of the percentage of the total area of the Town of Clay Fire Protection District protected by the respective" department and the percentage of the total assessed valuation of the Town of Clay Fire -Protection District protected by the respective departments divided by two. 2. All persons interested in the matter will be heard at such time and place. That a copy of this notice shall be published in the "North- Syracuse Star," the "Cicero Recorder," the "Liverpool-Salina Review" and the "Baldwinsville Messenger," newspapers of general circulation in the said Town on the 25th day of February, 1960. 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED AND ORDERED that the resolution and order shall be entered in the minutes of the  proceedings of the Town Board. I, the undersigned, Clerk of the Town of Clay, DO HEREBY CERTIFY that the preceding resolution was duly adopted by the Town Board of the Town of Clay at a regular meeting of the said Board duly called and held on the 19th day of February, 1960; that the said resolution was entered in the minutes of the said meeting; and that I have compared the foregoing copy with the original thereof now on file in my office and that the same is a true and correct transcript of said resolution and of the whole thereof.  I FURTHER CERTIFY that all members of said Board had due notice of said meeting. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the Town of Clay, this 19th day of February, 1960. 
ALBERTA HAMLIN,

 

Town Clerk of the Town of Clay, Onondaga

 

September 1970
Station 2 Grand Opening on Morgan/Buckley

 

September 1960
The Messenger
     Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Brand attended a dinner dance for the Empire State Rescue Squad at the Montauk Club at New York Mills Saturday evening. Mr. Brand received a plaque for the Moyers Corners Fire Department in recognition and appreciation for ambulance service for the Rescue Squad by their help in relaying patients from one point to another throughout New York State. 

 

November 3rd, 1960
Baldwinsville Messenger 
Moyers Corners Vol. Fire Department Indignant Over False Statements
     Chief Brand states that the Moyers Corners Vol. Fire Department, is not and never been affiliated with any political party, and never will. The Vol. Firemen of Moyers Corners Vol. Fire Dept. take issue with the completely false statements made by candidate for Town of Clay Councilman Richard M. White. First: Mr. White states that for a period of time there were areas in the Town of Clay without fire protection. This statement is completely false as anyone who attended the Fire contract meetings can testify Moyers Corners had a truck in temporary quarters near Bay berry on Route. 57 on Jan. 1 1960 on," and the equipment at Moyers Corners was ready to and did respond to alarms in the south portion of the town. It is stated at these meetings that Moyers Corners would answer a call for any emergency in this section of the town under question as well their regular Fire District. Second: Mr. White claims that the Town Board action threatened the existence of the entire Mutual Add system, is completely false as only threat to the Mutual Aid system came from the Chief of the Liverpool Fire Department, who refused to answer Mutual Aid calls in the Town of Clay, unless Liverpool had had a fire contract with a certain area in the Town of Clay.

 

     This act stunned many of the surrounding departments who immediately reassured Moyers Corners that they would be available if needed on mutual aid calls. Thirdly: Mr. White claims that because of changes made to the Town Board that two fire departments within the Town of are near Bankruptcy. This can only be meant as a slur on the integrity of the whole of Moyers Corners Fire Dept. as we are one of the only two Depts in the Town of Clay. This statement alone provokes us to refute the statements made by Richard White by which he has attempted to undermine and destroy the faith of our Dept. in the minds of the residents and people we are happy to serve and protect in the Town of Clay. Far from being near bankruptcy, our Dept. is proud of having one of the highest credit ratings in the County, Why do we have one of the best credit ratings? Because the membership of our Dept. not only volunteers time for fire, ambulance and emergency calls, but has since the organization of our Dept. until the year 1960, has by their own initiative and fund raising activities supplied well over half the annual budget of the Dept. The year 1960 we received $8,000.00 from the Town under our new five year contract which guarantees an annual increase and so only had to raise $6,500 by our own activities. We are proud of the fact that last spring when we had a brand new 1000 gal. tanker pumper, 750 gal. per hr. delivered that we were completely solvent, by not owing a cent to anybody. Our equipment at that time included one of the most fully equipped ambulances (only two years old) in the County, one 500 gal. pumper and one 1000 gal. tanker. Besides our large strategically located firehouse at Moyers Corners.

 

     We feel that by trying to involve the Vol. Fire Depts in Politics, that Richard White has done a great disservice to all Vol. Firemen in the County, but specifically in the Town of Clay. Chief Brand again wants to make it clear that we do not intend to be affiliated with any political party, but cannot sit idly by and allow the above act of slurs or slander go un-refuted. We wish at this time to thank the residents of the Moyers Corners Fire District for their wonderful support in the past, present, and future.

 

William F. Arnold, First Asst. Eng. 
Moyers CornersVol. Fire Dept.

 

1960 Drill Schedule - Spring
January 29th – Underwriters Test on Engine 1 – Ward LaFrance

 

January 30th  9:30- Noon: Officers and 4 firemen went over the new truck
1:30-430: 6 men practiced on the Ward

 

January 31st 9:30-Noon: 21 men practiced on the Ward, 1:00-4:00: 8 men practiced on the Ward

 

February 2nd – 12 men of Company #2 practiced on the GMC, 8 men of Company #1 went through the Ward

 

February 5th – 4 men and officers of Company #2 went through operations of a fire truck

 

February 7th – 6 men of Company #1 went through operations of the Ward

 

February 9th – 14 men of Company #2 reviewed pumper operations, Company #1, under direction of Asst. Chief Gillepsy went through pump operations

 

February 16th – 15 men of Company #2, under direction of Stormey, went over Scott Air Pack and Pumps. Ken Brand also in charge. Asst. Chief Gillespy led group of 6 men at Company #1 on the Ward.

 

February 23rd – 13 men of Company #2 pumped from a hydrant, 15 men of Company #1 under direction of Chief Brand laid lines and pumped from a hydrant

 

March 1st – 15 men of Company #2 laid lines and pumped from a hydrant, 7 men from Company #1 reviewed Truck operations

 

March 8th – 21 men from Companies 1 and 2 pumped from a hydrant

 

March 15th – 19 men from Companies 1 and 2 trained with Ken and Cecil – both trucks

 

 

 

 1961

 

February 27th, 1961
The Palladium-Times  Oswego, NY
Phoenix Firemen Work All Night
     This morning at 7:30 the volunteer firemen were called to Wetzel road in a mutual aid alarm where they spent two hours assisting Moyers Corners fire department battle a fire which destroyed residence. Liverpool firemen also joined in fighting this fire. 

 

July 27th, 1961
Moyers Corners Auxiliary won first place in women’s pushball at East Syracuse

 

August 10th, 1961
Baldwinsville Messenger
ADMINISTERS OXYGEN
     Baldwinsville Patrolman Lawrence Cumm administered oxygen to Lewis Wielder, 64, of 4 Meadow St. Tuesday  afternoon when Mr. Wielder suffered an asthma attack. Police Chief John Commane states. The Moyers Corners Fire Department ambulance was summoned, it taking Mr. Wielder to Syracuse Memorial Hospital

 

 

 

1962

 

 

 

In 1962, the Department purchased a new engine, Engine 1. Possibly 1960. 
New Apparatus: Ambulance, Vehicle ID 399
New Apparatus: Engine 1- 1962 American LaFrance
1962 and 1958 Ambulance picture at Station 1

 

In 1962, the Department purchased a new engine, Engine 1. Also at that time, Onondaga County started Fire Dispatch Service allowing for radios to be placed in Ken Brand's car and the GMC pumper. The members could be dispatched through Fire Control to their Plectrons. This increased the response rate a great deal.

 

Station 1 was KQP-681, Station 2 was KQP-680

 

January 1962
The Baldwinsville Messenger
     The Village Board of Trustees has been advised that Route 31 from the Four Corners to Moyers Corners, will be resurfaced by the State Department of Public) Works in the near future. In a letter to the village, the DPW requested that the village raise the level of all manholes and water shutoff boxes in the street by 2inches to accommodate an asphalt surface of the same thickness. The state said it would install stabilized shoulders on the outer reaches of E. Genesee St. as part of the project. It was also reported by letter at last (Wednesday) night's meeting of the board that Gates Funeral Home has as of March 1 discontinued its emergency ambulance service. The letter from, Ralph Gates advised the board that the Moyers Corners fire department ambulance is available, as well as Eastern Ambulance.

 

WIN TROPHY
Moyers Comers Ladies Auxiliary push ball team was awarded the county trophy at the county meeting at Belgium - Cold Spring fire house on Tuesday evening. This trophy is awarded to the team with the most points at the end of the field days season. Memphis, Liverpool, and Moyers Corners, tied for points. On Thursday evening of last week the three teams had a playoff at Fairmount with Moyers Corners, winning. 

 

1962 Grass Fire Engine 1

 

     Also, at the time, Onondaga County was starting a Fire Dispatch service. Ken Brand was one of the first Fire Chiefs to have a new radio in his car. The GMC Engine at Station Two had a radio installed as well. The members could now be dispatched through Fire Control to their home receivers called Plectrons. This increased the response rate a great deal. At some point, calls are starting to be dialed in through fire control using 454-3211 or 652-6111. Fire Control then alerts the MCFD by radio KQP 681 Station one or KQP 680 Station 2. Each member has a plectron receiver in their home on which a tone is set off.

 

            As additional growth occurred in the Station Two response area, and commercial development impacted the Oswego Road/ Route 57 corridor, the need for a new fire station increased. In 1962, Station Two was relocated to a double bay station on Morgan Road, near the intersection of Buckley Road.  With the development of the Bayberry residential section, it was realized that fire protection for this area was inadequate. One of the members owned a barn near the corner of 57/John Glenn, and donated its use as a fire station.

 

September 3rd, 1962
The Post-Standard
Flames engulf Morgan Road Barn
     Flames lick the fiamewOrk of a bain on Moigan Road, noith ol Liverpool, as Moyers Corners and Clay firemen stiuggle lo save the structure. They saved a nearby house- but the barn, containing machinery and hay, was leveled The fire alarm was turned m shortly before 5 a m . yesterday and firemen were at the scene for more than six hours.

 

 

 

1963

 

New Apparatus: Hahn Engine, Pre-1975 Vehicle ID 393. Assigned to Station 2. Became TP3. Later went to Station 3 as TP3

 

Station Two added a Hahn Engine to its apparatus roster in 1963. TP-3 became a work horse for the station and saw extensive emergency and working fire responses over the years until retirement in 1989. 

 

Helen Schmid provided an Ambulance Log from 1963 Highlights:
August 24th, 1963: Picked up a patient in front of 3 Rivers Shopping center with cuts and leg injuries. Ken Brand was the driver. Remarks: “What a mess”. Attendants were Phil Brand and Cecil August 29th, 1963: Possible stroke on Bonstead Road. Ken Brand was the driver, Roy A. Smith and Don Finlayson were the Attendants. Patient was in “bad shape”.

 

September 1st: Cecil was the Driver, E. Murphy was the attendant. Patient was transported from Canton to University Hospital.

 

September 11th, 1963: Vehicle Accident in Phoenix, patient was DOA. Ken Brand was the driver, Ed Ingoldby was the attendant. Patient was brought to St. Joe’s morgue.

 

September 15th, 1963: Responded to fire at Horseshoe Island. Roy Smith driver, Gus Schmidt attendant.

 

October 2nd, 1963 – Accident 7th North and Buckley…transported husband with cuts/shock..wife was doa

 

October 5th, 1963: Man swallowed tongue having epileptic seizure at Congressional Church in Phoenix. Ken Brand driver, D. Hunter Lynn Hambin attendants

 

October 6th, 1963: Liverpool Parade. John Green driver, F. Harke attendant

October 19th, 1963: Ambulance fund raiser. Ken Gregory driver Gus Schmidt attendant

 

November 9th, 1963: Fire at Lipe Rollway. Treated a worker with burn over right eye. Roy Smith driver, Ken Brand attendant

 

June 10th, 1963
The Post-Standard
Fire Wrecks Restaurant Near L’pool
     Tutor's Restaurant on Seventh North Street at Moyers Corners was destroyed in an early moming fire yesterday that was fought by three volunteer fire departments for more than three and a half hours. Owner Henry Tutor of 815 Oswego Blvd. estimated the damage at more than $100,000. The first alarm was turned in to the Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department by neighbors at 5:45 a.m. The Liverpool Fire Department was called upon  their arrival at the blaze, which was raging out of control. Moyers Corners Fire Chief Kenneth Brand estimated that the fire had started about an hour prior to the first alarm. The origin of the fire, according to Brand, is unknown. The Belgium Cold Springs volunteers were called about 6:15 a.m. When the Liverpool volunteers arrived, they were forced to wait about 20 minutes, Liverpool Fire Chief Robert Heid said, while the water authority boosted the pressure for the hydrant. The restaurant was housed in a converted barn. Chief Brand said the fire was out of control and had made its way through the roof of the structure by the time he was called. The three fire depart-ments could not get the inferno under control and it lit up the skies until shortly after 7 a.m. The last person , apparently, who was in the building, said Brand, was Tutor, who allegedly left for home shortly after 3 a.m. The Moyers Corners Fire Department called the Liverpool and Cold Springs firemen under the mutual aid pact. Under this agreement, one fire company may call another to the scene when, at the discretion of the fire chief, the one department can not handle the blaze by itself. In this case, Moyers Corners supplied three trucks, Liverpool responded with another three f pumpers, and Cold Springs one, The Cold Springs and Liverpool volunteers left the scene soon a f t e r the fire had b e e n brought under control. The Moyers Comers firemen remained until 9:30 a.m. to completely extinguish the smoldering remains of the building.

 

 

 

1964

 

April 10th, 1964
The Post – Standard
Brand Names Moyers Chief
     The Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department has elected Kenneth Brand as its chief.  Others elected  include Richard Hunter, treasurer; Gus Schmidt, secretary; William Kelly, assistant secretary; Cecil Gillespy, first assistant engineer for Company 1; Ray Stanard, second assistant engineer for Company 1; Edward Melvin, assistant chief for Company 2 and Barn 1 and 2; Edward Viel, chief engineer for Company 2 and Barn 1. Also, diet Carswell, first assistant engineer for Company 2 ; and Barn 1; Edward Murphy, chief engineer for Company 2 and Barn 2, and Peter Jankowski, first assistant engineer for Company 2 and Barn 2. Fire police named were Hubert Schmidt, captain; Earl McWithey, Richard and Norman Juinla. ,Jackson 

 

June 1964
Moyer's Corners firemen's softball team lost their first league game last week Wednesday to Clay firemen, 18-12.

 

December 29th, 1964
The Post-Standard
Fire Damages Moyers Corners Home
Five volunteer fire companies fought for more than an hour yesterday to bring under control a fire at the home of Donald Hess, Route 57, just south of Moyers Corners. Fire officials said the interior of the building was destroyed and only the frame and exterior were left standing. The alarm was turned in at 2:30 p.m. Cecil Gillespy, Moyers Corners acting fire chief, directed companies from Moyers Corners, Phoenix, Belgium-Cold Springs, Clay and Baldwinsville.

 

 

 

1965

 

New Apparatus: 1965 Ford Saulsbury Rescue. 
The department purchased its first rescue vehicle in 1965. For eighteen thousand dollars, the Moyers Corners Fire Department purchased a 1965 Ford Saulsbury. The vehicle was financed using bingo game profits. Retired Life Member, past President, and past Captain Bob Michelson recalls that this was the first rescue to have two high wattage quartz floodlights mounted on each side of the rescue body.

 

In 1965, the Moyers Corners Fire Department responded to a fire at the new Liverpool High School building that was under construction at the time. The fire caused heavy damage to the science wing of the building.

 

October 20th, 1965
Herald Journal
Fireman plan fund campaign
The Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department will stage its annual fund raising campaign Saturday and Sunday with a door-to-door canvass. Money-raised in the campaign is used to support the fire department's ambulance service.

 

1966

 

The auxiliary purchased 3 deep fryers for the men’s fish dinners – big expense
Blizzard of 66 – 6’ to 8’ drifts, 5’on Route 31. The night before, Billy brand ran out of insulin. Men took snowplow to village to get doctor insulin, got stuck near where Donwood Estates is located now on Route 57 south of John Glenn Boulevard. County plow also stuck. Doc Kelly came from his house on snowmobile with insulin.

 

January 28th, 1966
The Post-Standard
Find the Fire Hydrant!
Public officials, including many firemen, constantly urge that homeowners and business proprietors keep the snow cleared away from nearby fire hydrants so that firemen can find them quickly in an emergency. However, someone at the Moyers Corners fire department apparently slipped up. An excellent job was done of clearing the snow away from in front of the firehouse so the trucks could wheel out speedily if an alarm came, in. But, in the process, the fire hydrant in front of the firehouse was all but buried under deep snow.

 

Article picture

 

1967

 

Chief  Ken Brand, Sr.
President Donald V. Finlayson

 

New Apparatus: Ford/Saulsbury Rescue, Pre-1975 ID 395. Assigned to Station 1. Became R1. Later became R2 and assigned to Staton 2. 

Started the first Explorer Post in the county.

 

June 15th, 1967
The Post-Standard
Fireman Hurt Fighting Blaze
A Moyers Corners fireman was injured yesterday while fighting a blaze at 4290 Candleight Lane, Town of Clay. Daniel Kirk of 257 Oswego Road was injured by falling glass and was taken to a doctor. He received 10 stitches to close a wound in his arm. Kirk was reaching through a broken window when the glass fell and cut him. The fire, which began in a closet, probably had burned several hours before a passerby saw the flames and turned in the alarm during the afternoon, according to Moyers Corners Fire Chief Kenneth J. Brand. Mrs. Esther Mecca who lives at the house was not home at the time. The closet and clothing were destroyed, Brand said. Smoke damage to the house was considerable. No estimate of damage was available. Brand said the fire was confined to the house, one of a series of townhouses on Candlelight Lane. He said firefighters extinguished the blaze within 45 minutes after arriving at the scene. The Cold Springs Fire Department stood by as Moyers Corners firemen answered the call. 

 

September 29th, 1967 
Letter to the Town of Clay

 

Dear Sirs:

 

As the community has grown rapidly in the past few years, we also have to plan and grow with it. We will try to explain as best and quickly as possible several of the items on our attached proposed five year budget. We now have on order a new 80’ Snorkel, which we expect to receive about February of 1969. This is a 71k item plus equipment.  Also out for bid is a 1500 GPM pumper. This truck will cost around 40k, which we will receive around September 1968. Both of the above mentioned will need about 5k worth of equipment, such as hose, coats, boots, etc.

 

Our #2 firehouse in the past has been made available to us through the generosity of Mr. Ed Melvin. We understand this has or soon will be sold. Looking to the future, to assure the public of continued reliable protection, may be required to purchase land and erect a new firehouse.

 

Our new Rescue Truck was purchased by 5,100 from the General Account (Taxpayer money), and the balance 16,300 from our hard earned Bingo money (not taxpayer money), We now have on order a new ambulance, which also helps give the Town citizens some of the finest protection available. This with no cost to the taxpayer except whatever they feel they can afford, or through their own generosity.

 

September 1967
Annual Fund Drive Letter

 

The annual fund drive of the Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department will be conducted on the above listed dates. This is your opportunity to say “thank you” for the many house the volunteers have given for the protection of you, your friend and neighbors. All contributions are used to provide free ambulance service for you and all residents in the area serviced by the department; which emergency apparatus responds to approximately 450 calls per year. An annual budget of $5,000 is necessary to maintain, operate and provide for replacement of this equipment, none of which can be raised through taxes.

 

We would like to point out at the time, WE ARE A VOLUNTEER ORGANIZATION AND ARE DEPENDENT UPON YOU FOR THE SUPPORT OF THIS MUCH NEEDED SERVICE. Your cooperation in this project will be sincerely appreciated by contributing as generously as possible when your volunteer calls on you; anything you may contribute is tax deductible.

 

Best Wishes,

 

Ken Brand, Chief

 

 

 

1968

 

April 11, 1968
Herald Journal
Firemen tap Brand Again
     The Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department has elected officers for 1968. Re-elected chief for the 21st consecutive year was Kenneth Brand. Assistant chiefs elected are Edwin Viel and Cecil Gillespy. Engineers elected are Richard Hunter, Fred Harke. Theodore Kriese, Edwin Melvin, Peter Guinta and Robert French. Assistant engineers are Philip Brand, George Fulton. John Pearson, William Arnold, Donald Green and Seymour Bart

 

May 13th, 1968
Herald Journal
    Boy Scout Troop 209 of Liverpool, sponsored by the Moyers Corners Fire Department, must have set some sort of a record at a court of honor held this week at Tutors Restaurant in Liverpool. Eight members of the troop became Eagle Scouts. From left are, Richard Wood, David Weinman; William Pearse, Hadley Nans, Edward Nans, scout master; Richard Harroun, Christopher Recny, Stephen Geridron and Richard Anderson

 

December 26th, 1968
Fireplace Sets Blaze
The Post-Standard
     Christmas Day was less than joyful for the family of Ernest Mitel of 2 Ibis Path in the Town of Clay. Chief Ken Brand of the Moyers Comers Fire Department reported about $1,000 damage to the structure when a fireplace overheated, causing the wall between the fireplace and the outside of the house to smoulder. Flames erupted when the fire spread to an electrical box, according to Town of Clay police, who reported that the fire then spread to the entire wall. Investigating the fire for the Town of Clay police was Officer Herold Johns. County fire control reported dispatching a rescue company and two companies of the Moyers Corners Fire Department at 2:55 p.m.yesterday.

 

 

 

1969

 

The first aerial truck was placed into service in Station Two in 1969. It consisted of a state of the art apparatus design and an American LaFrance 80 foot Snorkel articulating platform. This was designated as 397.

 

New Apparatus: 1969 Hahn, Pre-1975 ID 392. Later Became TP2, E11
1969 American LaFrance Snorkel, Pre-1975 ID 397. Assigned to Station 2 as Truck 1, then Truck 2. 

    The Moyers Corners Fire Department Explorer Post  209 declared their specialty as First Aid and Search and Rescue.  All the members of the  Post were certified as Red Cross Advanced First Aid responders after being taught by Fire Department members Terry Ludwig and Dave Morgan, and Auxiliary member Joyce Ludwig (Terry's wife).  Two 1969 members of the Post later became members of the fire department, Fred Harke III (the third generation of Harke dedication to the fire department) and Bob Michelson. In November of 1969, several members of the Post assisted in a search for a lost hunter in a dense spruce swamp area between Utica and Old Forge. In the early 70's several members of the Post participated in the search in the Adirondacks for Douglas Legg, the young son of Liverpool High School science teacher William Legg.  Unfortunately neither of these individuals was ever found.

 

January 30th, 1969
The Post-Standard
Mysterious Oven Fire Investigated
House Fire Burns Woman Trying to Turn off Stove
By Robert Andrews
     Moyers Corners Fire Chief Kenneth Brand, left, and his assistant, Sy Bart, look over remain;; of an oven which caught fire at the home of Mr. and Mi's. Martin TDwusond, The fire, which, started -when some food on the stove caught fire, caused more than $4,0*0 worth of damage to the two-story frame dwelling. Chief Brand said his office was unable to determine at the time whether the fire was caused by an electrical failure in the oven or by spattering grease. Mrs. Barbara Townsend was burned in the fire.

 

ARTICLE

 

A Moyers Corners woman was badLy burned last night when she dashed into the middle of her fire-engulfed kitchen to turn off a stove. Mrs. Barbara Townsend was observed by witnesses running from her smoke-filled home on Oswego Road, Moyers Corners, covering her face with her hands. She was transported by Moyers Corners Ambulance to St. Joseph's Hospital where she was treated for first degree burns and released.

 

"I don't know what she thought she was trying to do by going back In there," commented Moyers Corners Fire Chief Kenneth Brand. Quick action by members of the Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department prevented the fire from spreading outside the kitchen.  More than 30 members of the fire department responded to the fire, which was reported at 7 p.m. Most of  the volunteer firemen were supervising a bingo game at the fire barn when the fire was reported. Chief Brand  said most of the damage was done to the walls, calling and cupboards In the kitchen. The fire started, according to Chief Brand, when Mrs. Townsend left her stove to go . jnto the living room and watch television. While she was watching television, the food on the stove burst Into flames. Her husband immediately called the fire department and helped evacuate three other persons from the home. None of the other parsons in the home were injured. Owner of ihe home is Dr. John Trapanil, who presently lives in Downey, Calif. The Moyers Corners Fire Department responded to the blaze with three pumpers, a. rescue vehicle and its new snorkel. Men from the Town of day ,Police Department who Investigated were Policeman R. C. Worden, Chief: J o h n Baston andSgt. W.R Thomas.

 

 

 

1970

 

Chief Ken Brand Sr.
 First Assistant Chief: Edwin Viel
Second Assistant Chief Cecil Gillespy
Chief Engineers: 1st Chief Engineer Ted Kriese, 2nd Chief Engineer Robert French, 3rd Chief Engineer Fred Harke,  4th Chief Engineer Dick Hunter, 5th Chief Engineer Blair Jackson, 6th Chief Engineer Fred Bressette Assistant Engineers:  1st Assistant Engineer George Fulton, 2nd Assistant Engineer William Arnold, 3rd Assistant Engineer John Pearson,  4th Assistant Engineer Phil Guinta,  5th Assistant Engineer Don Green, 6th Assistant Dave Dirk

 

Executive Board
 President George Sahm
Vice President Roy Smith
Secretary Dick Spiess, Assistant Secretary George Pachek
Treasurer Ron Fisher

 

Fire Police: Captain Wesley Higgs

 

1971

 

Chief Edwin Viel
 First Assistant Chief: Cecil Gillespy
Second Assistant Chief Robert French
Chief Engineers:

 

1st Chief Engineer Ted Kriese, 2nd Chief Engineer Fred Harke, 3rd Chief Engineer Dick Hunter,
 4th Chief Engineer Fred Bressette, 5th Chief Engineer Blair Jackson, 6th Chief Engineer Phil Guinta
Assistant Engineers: 
1st Assistant Engineer Chet Fritz, 2nd Assistant Engineer Dave Dirk, 3rd Assistant Engineer John Pearson,
 4th Assistant Engineer Fred Liebi,  5th Assistant Engineer Don Green, 6th Assistant Engineer Art Bump

 

Executive Board
President Royal Mosher
Vice President Roy Smith
Secretary Dick Spiess, Assistant Secretary Leo Pachek
Treasurer Don Gates

 

Fire Police: Captains Leo McWithey, Dave Bennett

 

1971- 397 installs halyard on flagpole at Lincoln Bank (now Empower). Al Slater on Turntable. 

 

Over the next few years, further station space needs resulted in the addition of a day recreation room, a kitchen and an office inside the station. The station eventually housed the GMC Jimmy Engine Company, the 1963 and 1976 Hahn Engines, and the 1969 ALF Aerial Truck. In 1976, the 1963 Hahhn was replaced by one of the two 1976 Hahns. As the run volume increased, and as Fire Station Two membership expanded, so did the need for a modern emergency response quarters. In early 1971 Moyers Corners was one of the first departments in the county to purchase a new, innovative, high powered, hydraulic extrication tool called a Hurst Tool. This was  later to be nicknamed "The Jaws of Life".  Because of this equipment, MCFD's Rescue was called to many auto accidents in surrounding fire districts to effect more rapid extrication of accident victims.

 

 

 

1972

 

Chief Edwin Viel
 First Assistant Chief: Cecil Gillespy
Second Assistant Chief Robert French
*Lieutenants (First Year for Lieutenants at MCFD): 1st Lieutenant Art Bump, 2nd  Lieutenant Robert Casler, 3rd Lieutenant Phil Guinta, 4th Lieutenant Dave Dirk,  5th Lieutenant Fred Liebi, 6th Lieutenant Ken Brand Jr.

 

Executive Board
 President Royal Mosher
Vice President Roy Smith
Secretary Leo Pachek, Assistant Secretary Steve Rubacky
Treasurer Don Gates

 

Fire Police: Captain Company 1 Leo McWithey, Company 2 Will Michelson

 

New Apparatus: 1972 Ambulance, Cadillac, Pre-1975 ID 399.

 

Chet Fritz: Heritage Fire: I have a photo of the late Phil Guinta and I receiving the Onondaga County Judges medal for a fire rescue made at a Heritage Park apartment fire some years ago. This may have been in the 70's.Mike Derbyshire, then an MCFD Fireman, had his mask knocked off when he ran into a wall.He immediately went unconscious. Phil and I dragged him down stairs and out into the street where we both gave him mouth-to-mouth until he regained consciousness and was transported to a hospital. The thing that made this somewhat challenging was that Mike stood 6'5" and weighed in excess of 300 pounds.

 

In 1972, The Moyers Corners Fire Department was the first department in the county to have a cardiac ambulance. By 1979, the ambulance had some of the latest advances in cardiac equipment. With this equipment came many hours of training. Moyers Corners had many medics in the 1970’s including Bill Arnold, Dick Perkins, Ralph Cinnamon, Fred Leibi, Will Michelson, Dave Morgan, Terry Ludwig and Chester Rominick.  

 

February 9th, 1972
1972 Ambulance – Cost $22,000 fully equipped, purchased through the ambulance accounts generated entirely with donations and department fundraisers. This was the department's last Cadillac ambulance No tax monies were ever used ambulances or ambulance supplies.

 

March 20th, 1972
Herald Journal
Three hurt as blaze ruins home
    Mr. and Mrs. Charles Fichter and their 19-year old son were injured yesterday as they fled a blaze which destroyed their home at 22 Bayberry Circle in Clay. Mr. Fichter, his wife Beatrice and their son Thomas were released from St. Joseph’s Hospital after treatment. Fichter had arm and head cuts and his son third degree hand burns and minor cuts. Mrs. Fichter was treated for shock. Firefighters from the Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department said that when they arrived the blaze had a big start due to a delay before the alarm was called in. Neighbors who first noticed the fire said it spread so quickly they elected to help the Fichters out of the house immediately, rather than take the time to call firemen first. A neighbor, Mrs. Harry Honan, said that she and her daughter were looking out their front window about 7am waiting for a car which was supposed to take the girl to a swim meet in Ithaca. Mrs. Honan said that smoke suddenly began coming from the house and, within seconds, “was all over the place, so black and thick you couldn’t believe it.” She saw Thomas Fichter leap from a second story window, and quickly ran across the street to assist him, while her daughter called neighbors living adjacent to the Fichter home to warn them that there was a fire that might spread. Harry Honan and several other neighbors were at the Fichter house within moments, and put up a ladder to help the family out of the burning home. Mr. Honan turned in the fire alarm before running across the street, his wife said. The Ficthers made their way to their garage roof, and from there hurried down the ladder. Two daughters, 16 and 11 years old, and a nine-year-old son escaped uninjured, firemen said. Damage was estimated at $28,000. Firemen are investigating the origin of the blaze.

 

April 26th, 1972
Baldwinsville Messenger
Kathy Kelsey, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Kelsey, suffered minor burns to her face and neck last week. She was treated at her home' by the Moyers Corners Firemen's Ambulance crew

 

Moyers Corners Firemen's Ladies Auxiliary held their annual meeting and election of officers at the firehouse Monday evening. A rummage and bake sale is being planned for Friday, May 12, and Saturday, May 13. The installation banquet will be May 24 at harbor Lodge, Constantia. The refreshment committee was Katie Schmidt and Eleanore Oakes. Elected officers are president, Alice Haney;-vice president, Joann Donohue; secretary, Clara Marshall; treasurer, Joyce Bressette; corresponding secretary, Betty Brand. Appointed by the president are chaplain, Katie Schmidt and county delegates, Louise Gillespie and Evelyn Romanick

 

July 12th, 1972
Liverpool Town Crier
Fire Dept. Has Colorful History
     Plans are currently underway up the road a piece for a rather special celebration: the 25th Anniversary of the Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department. A gentleman named Ken Brand, Sr. got the ball rolling on November 9, 1947, the day his garage burned down. You see, it never would have burned all the way, if all the fire companies in the area hadn’t been so late showing up. The story has it that Ken threw his hat on the ground as hard as he could and proclaimed that, “By God, we’re gonna get a fire department here!”. And they did, that very day. Of course, it wasn’t much of a fire department. The first five members (Ken Brand, Ed Harke, Sr., Paul Marshall, Ed Melvin, and Lymon Melvin) formed the nucleus, and shortly were joined by another half-dozen concerned men. For several months the only function of the new department was to meet occasionally and try to figure out how and where to obtain a fire truck.

 

            Then, along about March of 1948, Fate stepped in and lent a friendly hand. On March 12, Ken was helping out at his friend Tony Louis’s gas station, when a man pulled in with car trouble. During the course of conversation it developed that the man was in a hurry to get to Canton, NY to make an appointment with some prospective buyers of a fire engine he was selling.

 

            “A what?” said Ken.
            “A fire engine, “ said the stranger. 
            “Mister,  I think you just found your buyers. Don’t go away, I’ll be right back!” and with those words, Ken took off to round up the rest of the volunteers.

 

            Well, to make a long story short, they bought the fire engine. It wasn’t a new one..a 1922 American LaFrance could hardly be called ‘new’ when it was 26 years old..but the price was right. The next day a crew drove to Buffalo to take possession of their first piece of firefighting equipment.  All of this happened so fast that no preparation had been made to house the new truck, so for the next few months it was kept in Louis’s gas station.  In May, construction was started on a fire barn. All of the work was done by the firemen, mostly at night, after their regular jobs, and by that winter the new truck had a permanent home. In the spring of ’49, the fire department got its first call, but in kind of a roundabout way. A grass fire got out of control within the area to be served by the department, but the new fire barn had no phone to call an emergency into. So the call was made to the Clay Fire Department, who rushed over to Moyers Corners to tell them they had a fire. A far cry from the Fire control system used today, thru which each volunteer is notified instantaneously at home as soon as a fire call goes out.

 

              That first year about 20 fire calls were answered (compared to an average of 175 a year now!). It was discovered very shortly that the old LaFrance couldn’t carry enough water to battle anything bigger than a small grass fire, so in 1949 a second truck was purchased; this, a 1942 oil tanker, was converted to hold water, and thereafter accompanied the LaFrance on all its calls.   The department continued to grow. A ladies auxiliary was formed, which took on the job of procuring an ambulance. Rather than go the raffle and bake sale route, the ladies decided to make an all-out effort, and arranged to appear on the then-popular N.Y. quiz show, “Strike It Rich”. They build the prize money up to $1000, but managed to answer only four of the five questions necessary to win it all. They returned with a meager $100. Undaunted, they scraped up $400 more, and shortly thereafter, a third piece of equipment joined the ranks: a 1942 Buick ambulance, which responded to about 30 calls its first year of operation (compared to over 600 last year). The first new fire truck was purchased two years later, in 1953. This was a GMC pumper, and still functions today, though primarily as a backup unit. 

               A community grows, and with it, the number of potential emergencies. Many communities, as they grow, fall behind in their ability to deal with these emergencies. Not so Moyers Corners. They proudly boast of having one of the best-equipped fire departments in the county, and well they should: from a humble beginning of a used pumper operating out of a gas station, they now have grown to 7 fire trucks (an eighth is soon to be purchased) including a 80-foot Snorkel unit, plus an ambulance, housed in two fire barns (the original one at Moyers Corners and a second one on Morgan Road in Bayberry). With this equipment (and the 90 men who man it), they cover emergency calls north as far as the county line, south to the Liverpool line, east to Euclid, and west to the Seneca River. And they do it fast and they do it well. Happy 25th, firemen.

 

July 14th, 1972
Judge Ormand N. Gale awards Firefighters Phil Guinta and Chet Fritz the “Onondaga County Judges Medal” for their actions at a fire at Heritage Park Apartments in 1972. Firefighters Guinta and Fritz rescued Firefighter Mike Derbyshire.

 

December 23, 1972
Herald Journal
Driver, 22 killed as car rams trees
     An autopsy may be performed today at the county medical examiner's office on a Liverpool man who was killed last night when his car ran off Rte. 57 and struck three trees. Gary A. Rohrmann, 22, of 7844 Glenwood Dr., Liverpool, was alone in his car, heading south on Rte. 57 about 11:15 p.m. when the car left the road, Clay police said. The vehicle uprooted one tree, sideswiped another, and rammed into a third, police said. Rohrmann was pronounced dead at the scene. The car was demolished, and the Moyers Corners Rescue Squad had to use blow torches and cutting tools to free the victim. According to Policeman Paul Carlson, Rohrmann was wearing a seat belt. The accident occurred about one mile south of Moyers Corners. It brings the county 1972 traffic death toll to 65, and is the first fatality in the Official Christmas weekend traffic tally in the county, which began 6 p. m, last night. Rohrmann was employed as a sprinkler installer by the Hoffman & Walker Co. A native of Hastings, he resided in Liverpool for the past two years. He was a Sergeant in the Air National Guard's 174th Tactical Squadron at Hancock Field.

 

 

 

1973

 

Auxiliary: President Alice Haney, Vice President Joanne Donohue, Secretary Clara Marshall, Correspondence Secretary Betty Hanlon, Treasurer Joyce Bressette

 

New Apparatus: 1973 Haun, designated 394. Became TP-4 , then E32.

 

1973 Charter Members honored at Banquet 25th anniversary

 

January 4th, 1973
Car, Fire Truck Collide, 4 Persons Hurt in Clay
Herald Journal
     Four persons were injured when a car and fire truck collided in the Town of Clay. Clary Patrolman Richard L. Worden said a fire truck owned by Moyers Corners Fire Department and drivin by Charles DeVaul of Liverpool was answering a fire alarm on Avon Path when the accident occurred. DeVaul told police he was heading south on Morgan Road with the truck’s flashing lights and siren in operation. He said he signaled to make a right onto Grampian road when the collision occurred with a car operated by Leonard Bottorff of 68 Cheshire Road, Liverpool. Injured were Donna Maria Bottorff, 19, and Krista Bottorff, 9 months. Both were taken to Memorial for treatment. DeVaul suffered chest and rib injuries, and Richard Spiess of 227 Buckley Road, a passenger on the fire truck, was treated for chest pain. Both were taken to St. Joseph’s Hospital. Worden issued Bottorff tickets on charges of following an emergency vehicle too closely and failure to yield the right of way to an emergency vehicle.

 

Pictures

 

January 21st, 1973
Invalid In Trailer Fire Saved
Unknown Publication/Author
     An invalid a was carried by firemen and neighbors to safety from his burning trailer park home yesterday, police said. Clay policeman Richard Worden reported that Fred Wohlfarth, of 331 Berkely Court, Liverpool, was inside his Oak Ridge trailer home when flames broke out about 12:30pm. The Moyers Corners Fire Department stopped the blaze and aided Wohlfarth, police said. Worden said the fire was started by workmen cutting a trailer tongue. Sparks from the hot metal ignited the rear section of the trailer.

 

January 24th, 1973
Rescue Invalid In Trailer Fire
Unknown Publication/Author
     Firemen and neighbors rescued an invalid from his flaming trailer home in the Town of Clay last week. Clay Policeman Richard Worden said Fred Wohlfarth of 331 Berkely Court, Oak Ridge, was inside his trailer home when flames broke out. Moyers Corners firemen and neighbors assisted Wohlfarth from the burning trailer. Worden said the fire was caused by workmen cutting a trailer tongue. Sparks from the welding equipment ignited the rear section of the trailer.

 

January 30th, 1973
Blaze Blames on Furnace
Unknown Publication/Author
     An overheated furnace was listed as the probable cause of a blaze early yesterday that routed more than 15 persons from apartments in Belmont Gardens, Liverpool. Moyers Corners Assistant Fire Chief Robert French, among the first to arrive at Building 32 of the complex, said flames were rising through the roof of the three-story brick building, and that many of the residents were fleeing out the front door. “I ran inside the building and helped direct a few of the residents on the upper floor out of the building. No one panicked, and everyone left quietly, causing no injures,” French said. According to Moyers Corners Chief Edwin Viel, the fire originated in a vacant top floor apartment and spread up throught he attic and roof. French said a fire wall between the dameaged building and an attached building prevented the fire from spreading. “The only minor problem we sustained during the fire was ice forming on the equipment and clothing of the firemen,” French said. The U.S. Weather Service reported the temperature during the 7 a.m. was 15 to 16 degrees.

 

February 4th, 1973
Unknown Publication/Author
Firemen Drag Seneca River
     Monday brought the end to the third day in the search for an attractive Lyncourt housewife, whose body is believed to be in the Seneca River. As volunteer firemen from area fire departments halted their dragging operations Monday night, Syracuse police and Sheriff’s Department investigators were questioning a rape suspect in the disappearance of Mrs. Judith A. Giannino, 30, of 332 Orwood Place. The search for Mrs. Giannino, who has been missing since Friday night, is centered under the Rt. 31 bridge at Belgium. Clay Police found Mrs. Giannino’s purse, a torn stocking and some strands of hair on the bridge Saturday morning, and the search in the cold depths of the river began for her body. Being held in connection with the rape assault of a St. Joseph’s Hospital student nurse is Charles D. Askey, 20, of 600 E. Willow St., Syracuse. Officials said Askew  is also being questioned intensively about the disappearance of Mrs. Giannino. Firemen manned boats with dragging gear over the weekend on Monday, and divers from the Sheriff’s Department and the volunteer fire agencies worked until dark each day as the probe of the mother of three’s disappearance continues. On the scene were firemen from Moyers Corners, Phoenix, Baldwinsville, Clay, North Syracuse, Cicero, Liverpool and Belgium-Cold Springs. Mrs. Giannino was last seen Friday night after visiting her husband and St. Joseph’s Hospital, where he recently underwent surgery. She was reported missing Friday night, and her 1973 car was recovered Saturday in a parking lot on Rt. 48 at Seneca Knolls, about four miles from the bridge where diving operations are going on. Police say Askew is charged with rape and kidnapping in connection with the abduction of a student nurse in the St. Joseph’s Hospital area. Askew allegedly forced the nurse at knifepoint to drive to Morgan Rd. in the Town of Clay where he raped her. Then the suspect allegedly drove the nurse back to St. Joseph’s Hospital, released her and left her car, just about the time Mrs. Giannino was leaving St. Joseph’s to go home to make supper for her three children. Askew is being held without bail in the Public Safety Building jail to await arraignment. Undersheriff Robert Alexander, who is heading the investigation, has asked the public for any information anyone might have in regard to the carse. Assisting at the scene of the dragging operations were District Attorney Leo Hayes and Clay Police Chief John E. Kerr.

 

February 7th, 1973
Fire Battled at Apartments
Unknown Publication/Author
     Moyers Corners and North Syracuse volunteers last week battled flames which raced through a building at Belmont Graden Apartments Liverpool. Twenty persons were forced to flee from their apartments into the 15-degree weather when fire broke out about 7:15 a.m. Officials believe the blaze may have started in an attic above a vacant apartment in building 32 of the complex. Moyers Corners Chief Ed Viel said a firewall prevented flames from spreading throughout the entire structure. A quick stop was credited to firemen as the blaze swept through the roof of the structure. The roof above the top story apartment collapsed, exposing roof beams and interior walls. The cause of the blaze was believed to be a faulty heating system. North Syracuse aerial ladder was brought to the scene, while Phoenix and Liverpool firefighters stood by. Moyers Corners aerial rig was damaged in an accident on the way to the same complex in early January.

 

March 21st, 1973
Car Flips
Unknown Publication/Author
     Moyers Corners firemen and Clay Police carry John M. Moroughan, 20, of Bridgeport, from the scene of an accident last week off Rt. 481 near Rt. 31. Policman R.L. Worden said Moroughan told police he fell asleep and his car went off the highway and rolled over four times, landing in a drainage ditch. The driver suffered severe head and face cuts, possible fractures of the skull and shoulder and possible internal injuries. He was ticketed on charges of failure to produce his license and registration and driving at an imprudent speed.

 

Article Picture

 

April 5th, 1973
We’re with you all the way
Unknown Publication/Author
Article Picture

 

April 6th, 1973
Unknown Publication/Author
Article Picture
Woman Injured in Collision
     Freed from her smashed auto by the Moyers Corners Ambulace crew, Miss Patricia Jones, 21, of 113 Royal Road, Liverpool, was taken to St. Joseph’s Hospital. Her auto and one driven by Maurice Copppin, of 469 Buckley Road, Liverpool, collided at noon yesterday at Norstar Boulevard and Seventh North Street, Clay Police Sgt. Richard Worden said. Miss Jones was treated for head injuries. She was charged with failure to stop at a stop sign. Coppin escaped injury.

 

May 8th, 1973
Suspicious Blaze Razes Clay Barn
     A fire of “very suspicious origin” destroyed the main structure of a vacant three acre barn complex yesterday morning on Route 31, east of Route 481, Town of Clay. “This could very definitely be a set fire,” reported Lt. David Dirk of Moyers Corners Fire Department. There was no electricity in the barn, and officials have pretty much discounted spontaneous combustion. There was no combustible material near the origin of the blaze, Dirk said. Described as an “L” shaped structure, Dirk said the blaze originated in the short leg of the structure, and advanced along the long leg estimated at more than 50 yards in length. “The men responding were able to save the two smaller barns which were scorched on the roof and outside,” Dirk said. 

 

May 10th, 1973
     Moyers Corners firefighters surveyed damage following a fire discovered at about 12:30 p.m. yesterday at Oak Ridge Trailer Park, Route 57, Town of Clay. Flames destroyed this mobile home, leased by Stephen Ames. No one was home at the time. Second Assistant Fire Chief Robert W. French estimated damage at $12,000. French said the blaze apparently erupted in a bedroom. Fire cause is undetermined, he added. Liverpool and Phoenix fire companies were on standby. This was one of five alarms answered yesterday by Moyers Corners firemen.

 

May 17th, 1973
Unknown Publication/Author
Machine Cuts Worker’s Arm
     A man was listed in satisfactory condition in Crouse-Irving Memorial Hospital after his left hand and arm were severely cut in an accident yesterday at Edgecomb Steel Co. on Dey Road, Liverpool. Edward R. Ritchey, 25, of Craddock St., an operator of a steel-slitting machine, had completed an inspection on steel rewinder when his left hand became tangled in the machine’s roller, pulling his hand and arm into the separator discs, according to Robert Osuchowski, plant superintendent. Officer Pual Carlson of the Town of Clay Police said David Keener, who witnessed the accident, quickly hit an emergency switch to stop the machine. Osuchowski said the machine was operating at 300 to 350 feet a minute when the accident occurred. Ritchey was freed from the machine by members of the plant’s medical staff and members of the Moyers Corners Rescue Squad. He was taken by Moyers Corners ambulance for surgery. 

 

May 26th, 1973
     Alice Haney was elected president of the Moyers Corners Volunteer Firemen’s Auxiliary for the 15th consecutive year athe recent election. Other officers re-elected were: Joanne Donohue vice president, Clara Marshall, secretary; Betty Hanlon, corresponding secretary; Joyce Bressette , treasurer. Appointed were Katie Schmidt, chaplain and Barbara Brand and Ruth Michelson, county delegates. Plans have been completed for the fifth anniversary dinner and installation of officers May 26 at the Sheraton Inn. A calendar dinner will be held by the group June 9 at the fire house at Moyers Corners.

 

May 28th, 1973
Unknown Publication/Author
Teen Hurt as Car Flips
     Douglas Faulkner, 18, of Cicero, was injured about 4 p.m. yesterday when his car flipped twice on Buckley Road, near Morgan road, Town of clay, Deputy Thomas J. Paglia said. Taken by the Moyers Corners ambulance to Community-General Hospital, he was treated for a forehead cut and head bump and discharged, a hospital spokesman said. Faulkern’s car spun out of control, skidded about 195 feet, hit a drainage ditch and flipped twice, Paglia Said. Paglia said he charged Faulkner with unlicensed operation of a vehicle, driving an uninspected vehicle and having studded tires on his vehicle out of season.

 

June 23, 1973
100 firemen fight Belmont Building Blaze
     More than 100 volunteer firemen battled a hot, smoky fire in a Town of Clay professional building for four hours early today. Extensive smoke and heat damage was reported to several doctor’s offices in the one-story Belmon Professional Building in Belmont Village, Route 57, Moyers Corners Fire Chief Edwin Viel Jr. said. The fire was reportedly discovered by a Clay policeman who was patrolling the area shortly before 1 a.m., Viel said. ‘She (the building) was belching smoke all over by the time we got there. It had to be going for quite a qhile before anyone noticed it,” the exhausted fire chief said. Investigators believe the blaze started in a basement office, but the origin and cause were not yet determined, Chief Viel added. Firemen returned to the scene this afternoon to check the damaged structure. Chief Viel estimated the building houses the offices of 8-10 phyisicians. There was not damage estimate. More than 75 volunteer firefighters from Moyers Corners and another 30 from Liverpool Fire Department fought the blaze until 5 a.m. *Firefighter Robert Richars was taken to St. Joseph’s Hospital for treatment of smoke inhalation.

 

June 25th, 1973
Moyers Corners firemen responded to a two-story frame structure in the village of North Syracuse at about 12:15 a.m. Seven fire companies responded, with three firemen suffering smoke inhalation. The injured firemen were identified as D.A. Riter and Richard Jones of North Syracuse, both of whom were treated at the scene, and Robert Richards of Moyers Corners, who was treated and later released at St. Joseph’s Hospital.

 

June 27th, 1973
Unknown Publication
Unknown Auther
Flames rip apartments, businesses. Firemen injured in village, Rt. 57 blazes
     Two major fires over the weekend caused extensive damage to a professional building in Clay and a business-apartment complex in North Syracuse. Destroyed by fire early Saturday was the Belmont Professional building on Rt. 57 at Belmont Village in the Town of Clay. Hit by flames early Sunday were businesses and apartments at the corners of Church and Main Streets in North Syracuse. Moyers Corners Fire Chief Edwin Viel Jr. was one of the firemen overcome by flames as volunteers waged battle for four hours at a smoky fire that wrecked the Belmont Professional building, which houses doctors’ offices and other businesses. The blaze was discovered by a patrolling Town of Clay policeman, and the building was belching smoke and flames when volunteers arrived on the scene. Viel said the fire had been going for some time before it erupted and was noticed. Investigators belive a recently installed fuorescent light fixture may have ignited the blaze, but a probe is continuing. More than 75 volunteers from Moyers Corners and Liverpool battled the blaze. 

 

June 30th, 1973
Trailer Destroyed by Fire
     Fire destroyed a mobile home at Oak Ridge Park, Town of Clay yesterday. No one was home at the time, fire officials said, an no injuries were reported. The fire broke out at 6:35 p.m., Lt. Fred Liebi of the Moyers Corners Fire Department said. About 35 firemen fought the blaze until 7:30 p.m. Liebi said the mobile home was a rental, owned by the mobile home park. A third mobile home was damaged by the fire, he said, the rest received heavy smoke and water damage.

 

July 2nd, 1973
Unknown Publication/Author
Leg Amputated After Crash, Cyclist ‘Poor’
     A spokesman for Crouse-Irving Memorial Hospital listed Jason Austin, 23, of Bear Road Apartments, Town of Clay, in poor condition yesterday following the amputation of his right leg after a car-motorcycle accident Tuesday. Austin, on a motorcycle, was heading north in the 8000 block of Seventh North Street about 3:15 p.m. He lost control of his cycle as he came around a curve. It struck a southbound car driven by Mrs. Sanuel Worthen, 31, of Liverpool, Clay Patrolman Edward Weber said. Austin was taken to the hospital by Moyers Corners ambulance. Neither Mrs. Worthen nor her daughter Rachel, 4, her only passenger, was injured.

 

July 4th,  1973
     Capping the fourth of July holiday was a 3 mile parade along Route 57 that began at 4pm and lasted more than an hour. Sponsored by the Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department to kick off its field days, the parade contained more than 40 units. Twenty seven of the units represented fire departments and auxiliaries. The march began at Three Rivers and continued to the firehouse, just north of Route 31. Eleven bands participated, placed at intervals in the long chain of marchers, fire apparatus, staff cars, horses and the fire engine of the Societe des Quarante Hommes et Huit Chevaux. Moyers Corners Fire Lt. D.L. Dirk was parade marshal. Other officials included Clay Town Supervisor Loxley Firth, Clay Town Justice Harvey Heath and Sheriff Corbett, whose mobile radio van and color guard also participated.

 

July 6th, 1973
Dynamite Aboard – PC Boxcar Ignites
Unknown Publication/Author
     Personnel from a General Electric Co. warehouse, Pyramid Structural Systems and Penn Central were evacuated about an hour at 10:15 a.m. yesterday when a Penn Central Railroad boxcar containing explosives caught fire. The boxcar and three others behind it, at Crossroads Park off Seventh North Street in the Town of Salina, contained more that 100,000 pounds of dynamite, en route from Canada to Indiana, said North Syracuse state police. A “hot box,” resulting from a wheel bearing malfunction, was said to be the cause of the fire, which scorched a 5 square foot area on the floor of the car. The fire was quickly extinguished by Penn Central personnel with portable extinguishers and by Moyers Corners firemen. The state police bomb squad at the North Syracuse substation stood by until the danger of an explosion was eliminated. Lt. G.C. Dunne and Sgt. C.T. Brown investigated.

 

July 17th, 1973
Suburban Propane
     A small fire started and quickly spread exploding tanks throughout the facility. One tank exploded and landed 146 feet from the plant landing on the other side of the road. Three people were hurt. Thirteen fire companies responded.

 

July 18th, 1973
The Messenger
By C. Alan Baker
Flames rip gas firm
     Explosions and fire ripped through the Suburban Propane Co. at Moyer’s Corners at midday Tuesday. Injury, miraculously, was limited to one employee of the company, burned over 60 percent of his body. Exploding tanks of liquid gas and flying debris greeted the first of eight fire companies on the scene. A utility company line crew, which had just finished lunch nearby, told The Brown Newspapers they feld “the ground shaking” and “things were flying through the air.” They said they sought shelter under their truck. When we arrived on the scene, fire and police agencies were still keeping a respectable distance from the flames, ducking and scurrying as an occasional explosion sent plumes of flames high into the air. Suburban Propand Manager John Dobbins said Leslie Caines, an employee, was filling a tank with liquid gas when suddenly there was a “flare-up” of underdetermined origian. Dobbins, who was just parking his car, and others scurred for fire extinguishers but couldn’t contain the flames. Caines, reported to be suffereing flash burns, was taken to a Syracuse hospital. He was conversant with firemen before entering the ambulance. Flames centered in a warehouse and tank storage yeard adjacent to Route 57 behind the company’s office building. Dobbins said the building contained very little liquid gas, rather was devoted mostly to an inventory of gas grilles and other storage. Tanks outside the building were aflame, their plugs having melted from the intesnse heat. Telephone and electrical service were also knocked out as heat seared nearby overhead lines. A keepsake family album, which Dobbins was going to mail to a relative, was on the front seat of his care, one of those destroyed.

 

Oswego County Fire Lines:

 

From the desk of Oswego County Fire Lines, comes a word of praise for all of our Oswego County Fire Units that responded, recently, to assist our neighbors in Onondaga County at Moyers Corners. The fire at Suburban Propane Gas facility, could have become much more devastating that it was, had it not been for the experty handling and know how of our local depts. Assisting Moyers Corners. These men all deserve a lot more thanks than anyone could give as they continue to protect us day and night from fires such as the wild and dangerous fire on the 17th of July. No words could tell the boys from Moyers Corners FD how expertly they handled the situation, but the people in their district should be very proud.

 

July 18th, 1973
Unknown Publication
By Robert Bellinger
      Firemen and police are probing the ruins of a gas propane warehouse today to find out the cause of a fire that destroyed the building, injured one employee and sent propane gas tanks skyrocketing into the air yesterday. Officials said a disaster at the Moyers Corners Suburban Propane Gas Co. was averted by the fast action of the company manager and employees who turned off valves. This prevented explosions in some large propane gas tanks containing hundreds of gallons of the highly flammable gas, and a railroad tank car filled a quarter of a mile away. “It sounded like a jungle war out there,” one witness said of the popping gas tanks. The intense heat turned several of the smaller tanks into grotesque Roman candles spewing a trail of smoke behind them as they flew harmlessly into fields across the road. “I can’t believe none of the buildings around her was hit,” one fireman said. Moyers Corners Fire Chief Ed Viel acknowleged that residents were “very fortunate,” that none of the tanks struck their homes or businesses. Clay Policeman J.W. Pientka was on the scene when the fire broke out. He said flames were shooting out the north and west side windows of the building, where tanks are filled and loaded into trucks. Manager John Dobbins said he, and truck drivers Al Myers and Les Caines were unloading and filling empty propane tanks when the fire was spotted in a corner of the building about 1 p.m. Caines was burned by the flames, but Dobbins and Myers turned on automatic fire extinguishers and shut off valves. Dobbins said there may have been 150 to 200 tanks in the building, but most of them were empty. The heat caused some of the empty tanks to “pop” causing the loud series of blasts heard by people two miles away. There was little chance of saving the warehouse, but firemen from 12 area communities managed to confine the flames to that one building. Three company trucks and a car were charred by the flames. The roof of the warehouse collapsed. Thick, black smoke could be sen by downtown Syracuse shoppers, and by state troopers at their barracks in Cicero. At first, the fear of more explosions kept firemen from getting to close to the blaze. They doused the building from a safe distance away.

 

August 1st, 1973
Truck Fire
Unknown Publication/Author
     Sparks from the exhaust ignited the gas tank while this truck was dumping topsoil at Oak Ridge Mobile Home Park on Tuesday. Quick action on the part of a worker using a bull dozer pushed the vehicle away from two mobile homes. Moyers Corners Fire Deapartment was summoned to extinguish the flames. The vehicle was totally destroyed.

 

August 8th, 1973
The Scotchman News
Man Burned in work mishap
     A workman was burned last week when a machine short-cicuited on a Clay construction job. Ron Woolfort, 21, of 403 Meador Rd., was taken to St. Joseph’s Hospital where he was treated for burns to the fingers and released. Clay Policeman Thomas Benedict said the incident occurred while Woolfort was running a machine at Pyramid Construction Co, 4639 Crossroads Park, Clay. Joseph Kimball, a fellow worker, heard Woolfort yell and pulled the plug on the machine. The Moyers Corners ambulance administered oxygen and transported the injured man to the hospital.

 

August 15th, 1973
Clay Parking Needs Law
Unknown Publication/Author
     Town of Clay officials and volunteer firemen are concerned that the increasing traffic in neighborhood shopping centers will some day cause a life to be lost. Now before the Town Board for consideration is an amendment to the Traffic Ordinance which will allow Clay Police to ticket and tow cars parked illegally in fire lanes in shopping centers in the town. However, ordinance will not be in effect at specific shopping centers unless the shopping center management asks that it be enforced. The reason? The shopping centers are private property, so the Police must be “invited” to do the job. Moyers Corners Chief Ed Viel made a strong point for approval of the amendement at last weeks Clay Town board meeting. He noted that a recent fire call could have resulted in a tragedy because fire lanes were blocked by parked cars. When the firemen entered a theater to ask for cooperation in moving the vehicles, they were told by the theater management that nothing could be done because there was no public address system in the theater. What if the theater had been on fire, crowded with children, and the fire lanes around it were blocked? The volunteers also repor that motorists are downright rude when asked to remove their cars from no parking sites in fire lanes. We urge the Clay Town Board to apprive this amendment, and we also ask managers of the various shopping centers in the town to contact Town Hall and request that the parking lots be policed so that fire lanes are kept open and the potential for a life lost by fire is reduced.

 

August 17th, 1973
Letter to Editor, Unknown Publication
Fire Service Tops
     I read with interest the recent letter praising the Moyers Corners Fire Department. The newspapers often carry letters of praise for various local fire agencies. As Chairman of the County Legislature’s Public Safety Committee, I know the excellent work done by our local volunteer firemen. The County’s Fire Control Center has its own staff of experienced dispatchers. Under the overall direction of the County Fire Control Center, the volunteer departments’ are speedily alerted to respond to a call. With this combination of trained dispatchers and dedicated volunteers, the County is a safer place to live. As a resident of the City’s west-side and the elected representative of this area to the County Legislature, I would also like to recognize the fine work of the City Fire Department under the leadership of Chief Thomas Hanlon. The county is indeed fortunate to have both an excellent full-time fire department and capable volunteer fire departments county-wide.

 

Andrew Sturick, Legislature 17th District

 

August 24th, 1973
Unknown Publication/Author
Cave-in Kills Man Aiding Co-worker
     An Elbridge man died yesterday trying to help a coworker in a sewer excavation cave-in in the Town of Clay. Pronounced dead on arrival at State University Hospital was Dale E. Green, 21, of Valley Drive, Elbridge. A spokesman for the county medical examiner’s office said an autopsy was scheduled for this morning. Three other victims were injured. According to Sheriff’s Deputy G. D. Christy, the incident occurred about 3:25 p.m. on Woods Path Road, where excavation for a sewer line was under way. Christy said Green and Walter Terwilliger were outside the 9 foot-deep hole and saw a minor fall of dirt land on Kenneth Molina. The two then jumped into the hole to help Molina and were covered by a larger fall, according to the deputy. The three were buried for “a couple of minutes,” Christy said, before other workers managed to get the men’s faces above the dirt. Green was pronounced dead about 4:30 p.m. by Dr. Howard Austin. Dr. Martin F. Hilfinger Jr., county medical examiner, was scheduled to perform th autopsy. Rescue workers from Moyers Corners and Liverpool helped dig out the trapped men.

 

August 28th, 1973 Syracuse Herald Journal
To the Moyers Corners Fire Department:
     We acknowledge our deep appreciation and thanks to the Moyers Corners Fire Department, which responded to a fire at our home July 28 after it was struck by lightning. Your speedy response prevented a serious fire. Your excellent handling of your equipment and your concern about our personal safety and that of our property are to by highly commended. It takes a special kind of man to do your job.

 

Mr. and Mrs Frank Longo of Liverpool

 

Fire Prevention kick off at the County court house on Columbus Circle, downtown Syracuse
 L-R  Al Slater, unknown, John Mulroy, Bob French, Phil Guinta & George Race

 

September 1973 
Pancake Breakfast pictures

 

September 1st 1973..Call at LHS

 

November 6th, 1973
Unknown Publication/Auther
Car Crash Hurts Youth
     A youth was seriously injured last night in a one-car mishap on State Fair Boulevard near Baldwinsville. Rescue workers from Lakeside, Baldwinsville, and Moyers Corners fire departments worked for more that an hour to free Brian W. Hudson, 20, of Van Ness Road, Baldwinsville, from his car. Hudson was taken to Crouse-Irving Memorial Hospital suffering a broken leg and hip and possible skull injuries.

 

December 19th, 1973
Three Rivers Inn Fire
      The fire started at 4am in the morning of December 19th, 1973. Estimated loss was about $800,000. No cause was ever found. Over one-hundred firemen from six volunteer departments withstood temperatures of about 15 degrees, blinding snow and gusting winds while battling the blaze. Besides Moyers Corners firemen, units from Phoenix, Baldwinsville, Clay, Belgium-Cold Springs, and Liverpool were at the scene. On standby were firemen from Mattydale and North Syracuse. The fire started at 4am on December 19th, 1973. Estimated loss was 800k, no cause was found. Over one hundred firefighters from six volunteer fire departments withstood temperatures of 15 degrees wand gusting winds while battling the blaze. Phoenix, Bville, Clay, BCSFD and Liverpool assisted on the scene. On standby were firemen from Mattydale and NSFD

 

December 26th, 1973
Bidding Anticipated for Fire Station
The Post Standard
     The Moyers Corners Fire Department will advertise for bids shortly after the new y ear for a building to replace its fire station on Route 57, just north of Route 31. Cecil Gillespy, assistant chief in charge of the station and chairman of the building committee, said awarding of contracts and the construction schedule will be dependant on how much the building will cost. He said the fire department expects to erect the new structure for $400,000 or $500,000. Specifications will call for a concrete block building capable of housing five or six large pieces of firefighting equipment and a meeting room. He said the building will be constructed on five acres of landthe department owns across Route 57 from the present fire station. Gillespy said the department will borrow money for the construction and the payments will become part of the fire district’s budget which is kept in the black by its fire protection contract with the Town of Clay. He said the department plans to hold on to its presnt side for use at the annual field days.

 

December 29th, 1973
Buildings Set Afire
Unknown Publication
By Robert W. Andrews
     An arsonist – moving from building to building just ahead of firemen – set fire to three brick apartment buildings at Hollyrood Park in Liverpool yesterday afternoon. Still unknown to police, the arsonist used paper and a flammable liquid to start fires in downstairs storage rooms in the three buildings. Attempts in two other buildings were not successful. “Man, you can’t keep up with a nut like that,” said one fireman. “He moves too fast. It takes us longer to put one out than it does him to set it.” The 30 families living in the three apartment buildings were left homeless, but not by fire damage in living quarters. Firemen from six volunteer fire companies kept the flames away from living areas. But the heat and flames destroyed utility meters and wires. “The arsonist left them in the cold and in the dark” said Moyers Corners Fire Chief Edwin Viel whose men were first to arrive at the scene shortly before 1 p.m. “We were over there mopping up when somebody came and said there was another fire,” related the tall, burly fire chief. “So I sent most of my ment to that one. By the time we got that one under control, there was another one.” Chief Viel began searching the area. He said he found the makings of another fire – in a storage room below a laundry room, like the others. “We stopped that one,” he said, noting that by then residents were roaming the area looking for anything suspicious. One resident described the feeling: “You turst your neighbor. But some of your neighbors you don’t know so you begin looking around for anything that might be suspicious.” No one doubted that there was at least one and maybe more arsonists at work. “There was no lightning or thunderstorms,” reasoned Chief Viel. “Go didn’t do it and those things don’t start by themselves.” Clay and state police were left in a quandary about who started the fires and why. “We just have no idea,” said one Clay Policeman. Investigators theorized that the terrorist slipped into the easty-to-enter buildings through a door leading into a laundry room. The terrorist, after watching firemen sweat at one fire, rushed from one building to another, stopping at the ones easiest to enter, police speculated. All three fires were set between 1 and 3 p.m. Under the direction of Chief Viel, Moyers Corners volunteer firemen were aided by firemen from Liverpool, Clay, Phoenix, Mattydale and Hinsdale. “Our biggest worry was getting into the places where the flames were,” said Chief Viel. “It was like a box..fire on all sides. Now my men had to enter that box. How?” The chief’s solution was to punch a hole in the fllor of the laundry rooms, thus allowing firemen to pour water into the “box”. Inside the room, firemen found thick, black smoke. Using masks, the firemen entered the burned areas and moved carefully on the smouldering floor. Residents who had rushed out of the apartments stood watching the firemen, wonderin if they would have to leave their apartments. They soon found out. Peter Tinnesy, apartment manager, said residents could live in the complex clubhouse. “We’re serving stew and hot coffee,” he said. “We’re also looking into housing at other apartment complexes in the area and into emergency services.”. Clay police said they are also investigating a “suspicious fire” which broke out at about 9 p.m. at the Norstar Apartments in Liverpool. The fire, which did not spread, began in the third floor maintenance room of Building 1.

 

 

 

1974

 

Chief Edwin Viel
 First Assistant Chief: Cecil Gillespy
Second Assistant Chief Robert French
Captains:  1st Captain Ted Kriese, 2nd  Captain Chet Fritz, 3rd Captain Fred Harke., 4th Captain Fred Bressette, 
5th  Captain Dick Hunter, 6th Phil Guinta. 
Lieutenants: 1st Lieutenant Ken Brand Jr., 2nd  Lieutenant Fred Liebi, 3rd Lieutenant Bernie English,  4th Lieutenant Robert Casler,  5th Lieutenant Dave Dirk, 6th Lieutenant Dick Valmore

 

Executive Board
 President Phil Brand
Vice President Dave Ferguson

 

Fire Police: Captain Company 1 Leo McWithey, Company 2 Will Michelson

 

Auxiliary
President Alice Haney, Vice President Betty Hanlon, Secretary Clara Marshall, Correspondence Secretary Barbara Brand, Treasurer Joyce Bressette

 

Auxiliary notes: Purchased new dishes for the new firehouse. The name of the dishes were “Black Lace” and a service for 216 cost $2,358.98. Other expenditures included paying half of new marching uniforms. Some firemen completed a new heart course and a dinner was put on to honor them. Gift baskets and clothes were collected to help out a family whose home was burned on Gaskin Road.

 

New Station: Station 1

 

New Apparatus: 1974 Dodge/Horton, Modular Type Ambulance, A1

 

     New Year’s Eve, and early New Year’s morning, saw two fires break out in the area of three arson related fires earlier in the week. Belmont Gardens and Morgan Gardens are very close to Hollyrood Park, the scene of last week’s fires, but the Clay Police believe the fires are not related. The Morgan Gardens fire has been blamed on a man who fell asleep while watching television with a cigarette still burning. Four people sustained minor injuries in the fire. The Belmont Gardens fire began about 7:30 p.m. and was under control within ten minutes. The fire, of undetermined origin, was confined to a second floor apartment, but residents of five neighboring apartments were forced to seek lodgings elsewhere because the power and heat for their apartments were disconnected. Ed Viel, Moyers Corners fire chief, says that his men were fighting to keep up with an arsonist earlier in the week, but, as Viel mentioned, the arsonist could set them faster than the firemen could put them out.

 

January 7th, 1974
     Bids are expected to be sought shortly for the construction of a new fire station on Route 57, just north of Route 31, for the Moyers Corners Fire Department. Awarding of the contracts and the construction schedule for the new building depends, according to Assistant Chief Cecil Gillespy, on how much the bids are. The chief is in charge of the station and is chairman of the building committee. Moyers Corners firemen expect the structure to cost between $400,000 and $500,000. Specifications call for a concrete block building capable of housing fix or six large pieces of apparatus and a meeting room. Chief Gillespy said the building will be constructed on five acres of land the department owns across Route 57 from the present fire station. He said the department will hold onto the property at the present station site for use at its annual field days, but no decision has been made on what to do with the building. The chief said the department plans to borrow money for the construction and payments will become part of the fire district’s budget. He said the budget is kept in the black by the department’s fire protection contract with the Town of Clay.

 

Building Committee – George Sahm, Cecil Gillespy, Fred Liebi, Dave Dirk, George Race, Robert Casler
Design- Chase Architecture Associates Contractor – J.R. Gallagher

 

January 30th, 1974
Ladies Auxiliary signed a contract with the Women’s Clubs Publishing Company, Inc out of Chicago,Illinois to publish a cookbook.

 

March 1974
Moyers Corners took delivery of a new cardiac ambulance for 23K. MCFD is the only ambulance in the county with this type of ambulance. Ten members of the department are taking a 72 hour course in cardiac skills. The fire department purchased this vehicle because it received more than 600 ambulance calls last year, a majority of which were cardiac cases.

 

March 12th, 1974
Herald Journal
     Liverpool firemen, aided by Mattydale and Moyers Corners units, put out a blaze that erupted in the former Liverpool Public Library and school district office at about 6:45 p.m. yesterday. About 50 firefighters were aided by Explorer Scouts who directed traffic and coiled hoses. The building, vacated last summer, was to have been demolished this spring to make way for new library on the Second and Tulip Streets side. Three firemen were injured fighting the blaze.

 

March 27, 1974
Baldwinsville Messenger
     Ground was broken last week for a new fire station for the Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department. The new building will be located at Rt. 31 and Moyers Corners, across from the present station. It will house the ambulance and four fire trucks, along with meeting room, recreation room, kitchen and Other utility areas. To be constructed of concrete block with brick veneer, the floors will be built of concrete and the fireproof structure will be completely sprinklered. Construction has begun and occupancy is slated for late fall. Firemen on the building committee include Philip Brand, Gillespy,  committee chairman. George Sahm, Fred Liebi. George Race. David Dirk, Gary Adams, Robert Casler and Sy Bart. Architect for the building is Chase Architectural Associates of North Syracuse and the contractor is J R Gallagher Construction Corp Inc. of Syracuse

 

NEW FIREHOUSE. The  artists rendering of the new Moyers Corners Fire Department building, now under construction at Rt. 31 and Moyers Corners. Completion of the structure Is expected by fall.

 

June 1974
Station 1 Grand Opening
The auxiliary purchased a complete set of Syracuse China and new cookware, toasters, coffee makers and other supplies for the new commercial-type kitchen. Before that, odd pieces of china were used. 

 

July 5th, 1974
     An estimated 56 persons suffered heat exhaustion as high temperatures and humidity mixed with holiday celebrations. Fifty of those downed by the unrelenting heat were struck while attending the Moyers Corners firemen’s field days. About ten thousand Fourth of July frolickers turned out for a parade at the field days. A field day’s spokesman said seven required hospital treatment. Three ambulances had been placed on standby at the Moyers Corners field days but three more ambulances were brought in later in the day as more and more of the parade watchers and fairgoers fell victim to the heat.

 

July 17th, 1974
     Explorer Post 209 of Moyers Corners Fire Department won the annual county-wide pushball tournament held recently at the MCFD Field Days. The same group won the tournament last year. The team consisted of Karl Matson, Jim Falk, Chuck Connor and Tom Mann. Post 209’s second team of Jerry Erb, Rick Beebe, Dick Robson and Tom McKearney took second place.

 

October 16th, 1974
The Baldwinsville Messenger 
     Moyers Corners Firemen participated in the parade and demonstration at Baldwinsville in connection with the fire prevention week, Sunday afternoon. Units from the Northern section were involved. Each company gave a demonstration of something to do with fire fighting or rescue operation. Moyers Corners demonstrated their Cardiac Unit in the ambulance which has been used many times already during theshort time it has been in operation

 

November 6th, 1975
Husband run over after argument
Herald Journal
     A Town of Clay man remains in critical condition after police said his wife ran over him following a family dispute. Herbert O. Samuels, 37, of 9340 Horseshoe Road, is in the intensive care unit of Memorial Hospital. Officials said he has been in a coma since being admitted early Saturday with multiple head injuries, two broken legs and fractured ribs. Clay Patrolman William Peyok said Samuels’ wife, Barbara D. Samuels, 33, was arrested on charges of first degree recless endangerment and first degree assault. Peyok said witnesses told Clay Police Mrs. Samuels operated her car in a reckless manner and ran her husband down near the Steak & Bake Restaurant in Three Rivers. Peyok said that Samuels’ car traveled more than 200 feet from the point of impact before Mrs. Samuels stopped the car. Samuels was rushed to the hospital by Moyers Corners Ambulance. Mrs. Samuels was arraigned before Clay Justice Harry Heath, who ordered her held at the Public Safety Building without bail. Peyok said the incident followed an apparent family fight at a nearby bar. Clay Public Safety Commissioner Ralph Bagnett, Sgt. Thomas Bottar and Patrolman vince Marano assisted in the investigation. 

 

The auxiliary held their first big “bazaar”.

 

 

 

1975

 

Chief Edwin Viel
 First Assistant Chief: Cecil Gillespy
Second Assistant Chief Robert French
Captains: 
1st Captain Chet Fritz, 2nd  Captain Dick Hunter, 3rd Captain Ken Brand Jr., 4th Captain Fred Bressette, 5th  Captain Fred Liebi, 6th Phil Guinta. 
Lieutenants: 1st Lieutenant Richard Valmore, 2nd  Lieutenant Chester Romanick, 3rd Lieutenant Charles Romanick,  4th Lieutenant Loren Earle,  5th Lieutenant Bernie English, 6th Lieutenant George Race

 

 

 

Executive Board
 President William Arnold
Vice President Dave Ferguson
Secretary Steve Rubacky, Assistant Secretary Larry George
Treasurer Ralph “Red” Cinnamon

 

Fire Police:  Company 1:  Leo McWithey, Company 2: Will Michelson

 

Auxiliary: President Alice Haney, Vice President Betty Hanlon, Secretary Clara Marshall, Correspondence Secretary Barbara Brand, Treasurer Joyce Bressette

 

Explorers: Richard Beebe, Steven Erb, Jerry Erb, Peter Erbland, Howard Loveless, Karl Matson, Tom McKearny, Jim Moore, Dick Robson, Dave Rodman.

 

     The new firehouse was dedicated on May 18th. Purchases for the new firehouse included drapes, three utility carts, coffee maker, waitress stand and freezer. In addition, two doctor bags for the two ambulances were purchased and a $500 check was sent to the new Burn Unit at Upstate Medical Center. Being the bicentennial year, material was purchased and aprons made which consisted of red and white stripes with blue trimming. Marchers were very active this year and won first place at Central Square and Pulaski, second place at Scriba and North Chittenango, and third place at North Syracuse and Pennellville.

 

May 18th, 1975 –
Dedication of Moyers Corners Station 1
Design: Chase Architecture Associates
Contractor: J.R. Gallagher
Building Committee: Robert Casler, Dave Dirk, Cecil Gillespy, Fred Liebi, George Race, George Sahm

 

“This station is dedicated to the Past, Present and Future members of this department”
Ribbon Cutting:
County Executive: John Mulroy
Town of Clay Supervisor: Ernest Castle
Moyers Corners Fire Chief: Edwin Viel
Moyers Corners President: William Arnold

 

July 2nd, 1975
The Post-Standard
Train Ignites Grass by Track
     A Penn Central train traveling south yesterday afternoon through the Town of Clay generated a half-dozen grass fires near Ver Plank Road, Moyers Corners Fire Department reported. The series of small fires extended on both sides of the railroad track for about three-quarters of a mile, according to David Hess of the Moyers Corners Fire Department.

 

 

 

July 6th, 1975
     It was wall to wall people for the second day in a row at the Moyers Corners Volunteer Firemen’s field days. Youngsters had more than 30 rides to choose from on the midway. Those who wanted to test their strength instead, there was a water hose competition. The July 4th parade had more than 1500 spectators. The three day event ends with a fireworks display.

 

August 10th, 1975
Syracuse Herald-American
Invalid Rescued
     According to the officer, who was the first one at the scene, flames shooting 30 feet into the air could be seen for miles. Marano said when he arrived he had to administer oxygen to Barbara because she had begun to have an asthma attack. He added that she did not require hospital treatment. Two firefighters though were taken to State University Hospital by Moyers Corners Ambulance, Marano said, for treatment of cuts received when an unknown object fell on them. Rick Cooper was treated for a cut above his eye while Fred Liebi was treated for a slash to his hand. Both firemen are from the Moyers Corners Fire Department and were released after treatment. Moyers Corners Asst. Fire Chief Cecil Gillespy said the blaze was quickly brought under control but not before it destroyed more than half of the trailer. Assisting Moyers Corners were firefighters from Liverpool and Phoenix. According to Marano, Mr. arid Mrs. Ronald Starusnak were out celebrating their wedding anniversary at the time the fire broke out.

 

October 2nd, 1975
Firemen Ceremonies
Herald-Journal
An 80-foot aerial platform truck from the Moyers Corners Fire Department will respond to the Onondaga County Court House tomorrow at II a.m. to kick off Fire Prevention Week. The ceremonies will include County Executive John Mulroy signing a proclamation naming Oct. 5-11 as Fire Prevention Week. Mulroy will present the proclamation to Onondaga Fire Chiefs Association President Kenneth Glazier and Willis

 

Hochgesang, president of the Onondaga County Volunteer Firemen's Association, after they are lifted by the aerial platform to the third floor portico of the court house. Also participating in the ceremonies will be an amphibious vehicle from the Brewerton Fire Department and an antique fire pumper from the Belgium-Cold Springs Fire Department.

 

PICTURES

 

 

 

1976

 

Chief Edwin Viel
 First Assistant Chief: Robert French
Second Assistant Chief Cecil Gillespy
Captains:  1st Captain Chet Fritz, 2nd  Captain Fred Harke, 3rd Captain Fred Bressette, 4th Captain Phil Guinta, 
5th  Captain Fred Liebi, 6th Captain Ken Brand Jr. 
Lieutenants: 1st Lieutenant George Race, 2nd  Lieutenant Richard Valmore, 3rd Lieutenant Chester Romanick, 4th Lieutenant Dave Ferguson,  5th Lieutenant Neil “Bud” Neuman, 6th Lieutenant Charles Romanick

 

 

 

Executive Board
 President William Arnold
Vice President George Fulton
Secretary Richard Perkins, Assistant Secretary Rick Jones
Treasurer Larry George, Assistant Treasurer Mike Derbyshire

 

Fire Police:  Captains Leo McWithey, Will Michelson

 

 

 

Auxiliary: President Alice Haney, Vice President Gretchen Griffith, Secretary Clara Marshall, Correspondence Secretary Alice Jones, Treasurer Nancy Perkins 
Activities this year included raising money for the Burn Unit and Ambulance Fund Drive. Six new tables were purchased, and also a trailer sign for the front of the firehouse at a cost of $1,425. We helped the firemen at their pancake breakfast, their Banana Split sale at Seneca Mall, and put on a lunch for an all day seminar they had

 

Explorer Post 209

 

Advisor Richard Erb

 

Explorers: Rich Beebe, Don Brosh, Gary Burkhart, Steve Eberl, Jerry Erb, Steve Erb, Pete Lemoniades, Karl Matson, Tom McKearney, Dan McNulty, Chris Naum, Dick Robson, Dave Rodman, Bob Swahn, Paul Wiedeman

 

1976 had 45 firemen in both firehouses. There was a waiting list to become a member.

 

New Apparatus: 
Twin  1976 Hahn engines - one designated TP5 and housed at Station Two replacing the 1963 Hahn, the other TP6 and housed at Station One replacing the 1960 Ward Lafrance.  TP5 eventually was shipped to E-one for glider kit (to be engine 11), before shipping, the front of the cab was cut off to build an entertainment center

 

1. During this time the 1963 Hahn was completely rehabed by Sanford Fire Apparatus. TP-6 eventually became Engine 12

 

New Apparatus: 1976 Ambulance 2

 

 

 

January 28th, 1976
The Baldwinsville Messenger – Progress Edition
“Moyers Corners opens ‘most modern’ firebarn
     The year 1975 has been a big one for the Moyers Corners Fire Department. To serve the residents of its fire district better, Moyers Corners expanded its facilities this year and the new fire barn on Rt. 57, designed by Chase Architectural Firm, is the most modern and unique fire department in New York State. The new building incorporates room for eight pieces of firefighting apparatus, has a room for dispatching equipment and includes a dormitory for the full-time ambulance crew. The ambulance service is now manned full-time during the night hours from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. for the fastest possible response to emergency calls. A new ambulance will go into service late in February, giving the department two cardiac rigs to better serve the community. Also on order for the Moyers Corners Fire Dept. are two new "Haun" tanker pumpers to give adequate protection to the ever-growing number of houses and apartment buildings in the fire district. On the drawing boards are plans for a Station No. 3 to be located in the south-eastern part of the district. Training is a never-ending part of the fire department and in 1975, more than 15 new emergency medical technicians and five new paramedics were added to the department. Several of the men are working towards degrees in fire science at Onondaga Community College and extra courses are continually being scheduled by Onondaga County and New York State Fire Control in fire fighting, tactics, prevention and new equipment. This is all made possible, of course, by you, the public. Fire department personnel credit the people of the fire district with "terrific support" which is greatly appreciated. Fund-raising events such as the field days in July, smokers in the fall and the annual ambulance fund drive in September have received tremendous support and through these funds and contributions, the Moyers Corners firemen have been given the means to give area residents the finest in fire protection

 

February 1st, 1976
Herald American
Twenty escape Hollyrood Fire
     Twenty Town of Clay residents had to be evacuated when a fire heavily damaged the second floor of one apartment in a row of townhouses at Hollyrood Park shortly before midnight. Town of Clay Police Officer Vince Murano, who was first on the scene, said he went through each of the four apartments in the unit and escorted the families to safety. The blaze started in a bedroom of the Richard Stanton residence at 2 Grant Court, off Grampian Road. Stanton, his wife, Louella, and four children, Richard, 14, Keith, 12. Shelly, 2, and Kim, two months, were taken to the home of nearby friends, police said. Moyers Corners volunteers had the fire under control within 15 minutes using the department's aerial ladder truck to pour water through the second floor roof. The Stanton townhouse is the second in a row of four attached homes. The second floor of this unit was heavily damaged by flames, with smoke and water damage reported to the units on each side, according to Sgt. Nelson Whitmore. Several weapons and rounds of ammunition belonging to Stanton were carried from the home to prevent their possible explosion during the fire. The cause of the fire is under investigation by Town of Clay Police and Moyers Corners Fire Chief Ed Viel.

 

February 2nd, 1976
Herald-Journal
Several Pile-ups
    State police at North Syracuse worked to keep up with a flurry of multi-car piles-ups in the towns of Clay and Cicero. Off-duty troopers were called in to help investigate the accidents, several of which involved injuries, officials said. In one accident on Route 57 near the Moyers Corners fire department, a Clay Policeman was among the injured.

 

May 23rd, 1976
A 30-lb. turkey will be first prize in three archery divisions May 22, when the Moyers Corners Fire Department hosts its 1st Annual Turkey Shoot for archers. Three classes of bowmanship will be featured with top five scores in each category earning a- turkey. Class are hunting bow with broadhead, tournament bow with target arrows and compound bow with field tip or target arrows. Archery equipment will be given away during the shoot which begins at 11 a.m. Entries must be submitted by May 21 at Burdick's CMC Truck Center at Moyer's Corners. Entry is $3 per class.  For further information contact Warren Shields at 652- 3764.

 

July 4th, 1976
Parade, pictures
The three mile parade along Route 57 began at 4 p.m. and lasted more than an hour. Sponsored by the Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department to kick off its field days, the parade contained more than 40 units. Twenty-seven of the units represented fire departments and auxiliaries. The march began at Three Rivers and continued to the firehouse, just north of Route 57 and 31. Eleven bands participated, placed at intervals in the long chain of marchers, fire apparatus, staff cars, horses and fire engines of the Cociete des Quarante Hommes et Huit Chevaux. Moyers Corners Fire Lt. D.L. Dirk was parade marshal. Other officials included Clay Supervisor Loxley Firth, Town Justice Harry Heath and Sheriff Corbett, whose mobile radio van and color guard also participated. Four fighters of the Air National Guard at Hancock Field graced the event with flyovers.

 

July 11th, 1976
Herald American
Firemen respond to ‘brandy’ fire
     When fumes from a fallen brandy bottle led to a fire in a rug in a Town of Clay home yesterday, three area fire departments seemed eager to respond. Answering the call after several confusing exchanges over the county fire radio was a tanker-pumper from Moyers Corners Station 2, located not far from the residence of Charles H. Quackenbush Jr., 27 Nectarine Lane, Bayberry. Moyers Corners Capt. Edward Coon said most of the department's Station 2 firemen were having a clambake behind the station when the signal went out at 3:53 p.m. Phoenix and Liverpool units, covering Moyers Corners calls during the clambake, automatically responded, a fire control spokesman said.  When the Moyers Corners "skeleton crew" on duty heard how close the fire was, however, it handled the call, along with a Liverpool engine. The fire control dispatcher, returned the Phoenix truck, en-route to the fire, back to its station. Capt. Coon said the fire started when a bottle of brandy fell on a rug and fumes were ignited by a nearby hot water heater. Firemen dragged the rug outside and hosed it down. No injuries or other damage were reported.

 

September 22nd, 1976
article picture
Jake and Selma Latiff presented a check for 1000 dollars to Ed Viel, Chief of the Moyers Corners Fire department, Dick Griffith, paramedic, and Gary Stefanini, emergency medical technician. Griffith and Stefanini saved Mr. Latiff’s life on May 22nd, 1976 when he suffered a heart attack at the Liverpool Golf Course. The check to the volunteer fire department was Latiff’s way of thanking the men who saved his life.

 

 

 

1977

 

Chief Edwin Viel
 First Assistant Chief: Robert French
Second Assistant Chief Fred Harke
Captains: 1st Captain Chet Fritz, 2nd  Captain Fred Bressette, 3rd Captain Fred Liebi, 4th Captain George Race, 5th  Captain Ken Brand Jr., 6th Captain Bud Neuman 
Lieutenants:1st Lieutenant Dave Ferguson, 2nd  Lieutenant Chester Romanick, 3rd Lieutenant Palmer (Mike) App, 4th Lieutenant Charles Romanick,  5th Lieutenant Dave Dirk, 6th Lieutenant Scott Rodgers

 

Executive Board
 President William Arnold
Vice President George Fulton
Secretary Larry George, Assistant Secretary Rick Jones
Treasurer Ralph “Red” Cinnamon, Assistant Treasurer Mike Derbyshire

 

Fire Police:  Captains Leo McWithey, Will Michelson

 

Auxiliary: President Gretchen Griffith, Vice President Louise Ferguson, Secretary Clara Marshall, Correspondence Secretary Charlotte Neal, Treasurer Joyce Bressette

 

The girl’s pushball team won second place at Caughdenoy and Cicero and third place at Belgium Cold Springs and Plainville. Marchers won first place at Mattydale, second place at Minetto, East Syracuse, Liverpool and Plainville, and third place at the county convention. Four weddings were put on this year, in addition to the bazaar and rummage sale. Purchases this year included water jugs, a food processor, and cabinet for the auxiliary office. Life membership cards were also purchases for members qualifying for one.

 

Cecil gillespy received a past chief badge

 

February 27, 1977
Herald Journal
Meet to discuss new firehouse
     The Moyers Corners Fire Department plans to build a new firehouse on Bear Road and residents of the Town of Clay will meet at 7:30 p.m. tomorrow in the town hall to discuss the purchase of property for the proposed firehouse. Clay Commissioner of Planning and Development James Keefe said the proposed firehouse is to be located on property on Bear Road bounded by the Briarwood Tract and the Autumn Wood Manor tract. Keefe said the purpose of the meeting is to discuss the purchase of the property with residents since some are opposed to the location while others are in favor of it. Fire Chief Edward Veal Jr., according to Keefe, will be on hand to answer questions on the need for the firehouse at the location. The purchase price for the property is $27,000 and the plans have already been approved by the State Division of Fire Service and the Onondaga County Planning Agency. Keefe said the firehouse will house two tanker pumpers.

 

February 28th, 1977
Moyers Corners Chief To Plug for Station
The Post-Standard
     A meeting of Moyers Corners firemen and Briarwood and Autumnwood Manor development residents will be at 7:30 p.m. today at the Clay Town Hall. Clay Planning Commissioner James Keefe said the firemen want to construct a second fire station on Bear Road, between the two developments. Moyers Corners Fire Chief Edwin Viel said his men will be at the meeting to explain the need for a second fire station and why the Bear Road location was chosen. Chief Viel also is expected to tell the fire station near their homes. The station is proposed to be on five acres along Bear Road between Buckley and Taft roads. The cost of the property is estimated at $27,000 and, according to Keefe, no zoning changes or approvals are required for the construction of a fire station there. County and state planners have recommended that the Moyers Corners Fire Department construct a second fire station to cover its growing area.

 

April 29th, 1977
The Post-Standard
‘Daredevil’ Didn’t Dare
     Volunteers from the Moyers Corners Fire Department used their snorkel truck  yesterday to rescue  a youthful Bayberry daredevil from his perch in a maple tree. "He was up pretty high,” said Mrs. Sharon Davidson of 7721 Fireside Drive, speaking of her 4-year-old son, Jamie. The boy climbed  the tree behind 4214 Fireside Drive, Mrs. Davidson said, "to show his friends how high he could climb." Jamie climbed high enough, according to neighbors on the scene, to discourage his willingness to  attempt the climb back down.  Volunteers in the department's 46-foot cherry picker  plucked Jamie, uninjured, from the tree at about 5:30 p.m., officials said.

 

 June 19th, 1977
Herald Journal
Woman dies, 5 hurt in crashes
     A Liverpool woman was killed and five other persons were injured, one seriously, in two violent car accidents yesterday afternoon which Onondaga County Sheriff's deputies attributed partly to slick road conditions. Mrs. Jodele T. DeValk, 30, 4807 Glencrest Ave., died around 10 p.m. last night from injuries received when the car she was driving was struck broadside by a car carrying three persons on Henry Clay Boulevard. Deputies said Mrs. DeValk had just pulled her car onto the boulevard from Glencrest Avenue when the northbound car driven by Daniel Vault, 21, of 6343 Collamer Drive, East Syracuse, struck her  broadside. The two cars then spun around and hit each other again, police said. Moyers Corners Fire Department personnel worked for an hour to free the four victims from the twisted wreckage. A spokesman at St. Joseph's Hospital said Mrs. DeValk died from multiple injuries to the head, abdomen and leg around 10 p.m., roughly five hours after the spectacular collision.

 

September 12th, 1977
The Post-Standard
Let Us Spray
     The Moyers Corners Fire Department responds from up high Sunday afternoon to a simulated fire in the packaging warehouse at the Schlitz Brewery in Radisson. The simulation required firemen to put out the "blaze" as well as take care of "injured" workers at the plant. Six other fire departments reported for the exercise, which involved more than 25 pieces of fire fighting apparatus and about 125 firemen. The Radio Amateur Communications Corp. of the Onondaga County Communications Corp. furnished supplemental radio communications.

 

September 
Steelway Blvd Fire
1977 Steelway Boulevard – Picture of Fred Bressette and crew 

 

November 1977
Second annual holiday fire safety program at Seneca Mall shopping center. Firemen will answer any questions from persons on how fires and accidents which occur frequently during the holiday season can be prevented.

 

The Clay Police Department and Safety Committee have compiled a list of gift suggestions for the man and

 

woman who have everything." Members will be on hand to demonstrate and answer questions about such items as smoke detectors, one-inch dead bolts and timers  being suggested as stocking stuffers. Literature covering toy safety and other holiday safety topics related to children also will be available.

 

November 22nd, 1977
PARAMEDICS HELP OUT, Teaching "civilians" the techniques of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), paramedics James Colbert of the Enterprise Fire Company 1 in Phoenix and Capt. Fred Liebi of the Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department demonstrate how to use "Recording Annie”

 

 

 

1978

 

Chief Edwin Viel
 First Assistant Chief: Robert French
Second Assistant Chief 
Third Assistant Chief 
Captains: 
1st Captain, 2nd  Captain, 3rd Captain, 4th Captain, 5th  Captain, 6th Captain, 7th Captain, 8th Captain, 9th Captain 
Lieutenants: 1st Lieutenant, 2nd  Lieutenant, 3rd Lieutenant, 4th Lieutenant,  5th Lieutenant, 6th Lieutenant 

 

Executive Board
President 
Vice President 
Secretary, Assistant Secretary 
Treasurer, Assistant Treasurer

 

Fire Police:  Captain

 

Auxiliary:  President Betty Hanlon, Vice President Gretchen Griffith, Secretary Martha Arnold, Correspondence Secretary Debbie Neuman, Treasurer Joyce Bressette

 

     Twenty-five year pin was awarded to Lorraine Sahm. Life Membership cards were given to Clara Marshall, Alice Haney, Louise Gillespy, Hattie Karker, Mary Mackey, Doris Jackson, Eleanor Oakes, Lorraine Sahm, Margaret Rybinski, Katie Schmidt and Bernadine Loreman.$1000 was sent to the firemen for their ambulance fund drive and food was furnished for the firemen during their drive. A children’s Christmas party was held for seventy children on December 10th and a $2 gift was purchased for each child. A luncheon was made and transported to the people of the Plaza Nursing Home and was enjoyed very much by all. The post of Auxiliary Historian was created and Joyce Ludwig was appointed. A plaque for Clara Marshall was presented to her for 24 years of service and being Secretary for the years of 1950, 1954-1963 and 1965-1977.

 

April 9th, 1978

701 University Avenue, Syracuse

Michael Petragnani, while performing his duties as a member of the Syracuse Fire Department Rescue Company, was killed in the Line of Duty. Petragnani was also a member of Moyers Corners, assigned to Station 2. While operating on the third floor inside, a scalding steam caused by triggered sprinklers prevented the four firefighters from escaping, and they eventually depleted their air supply and suffocated to death. The firefighters were operating with full PPE that was complaint at that time (1978) and were utilizing state-of-the art SCBA in the form of the new 4.5 SCBA systems. All the tenants had escaped safely before the fire fighters had entered the house. The fire was subsequently investigated by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) at the request of the City of Syracuse and NFPA Report No. LS-3 was published.

 

September 14th, 1978
Herald Journal
Crash kill B’ville man
     A Baldwinsville man was killed and his brother was seriously injured when the pickup truck in which they were riding slammed into the rear of a parked vehicle on Bonstead Road in town of Clay this morning. Pronounced dead at the scene was Raymond Hawkins, 36. of Smokey Hollow Road. His brother, Richard, 32, of Hannibal, was listed in stable condition with multiple injuries at St. Joseph's Hospital. Trooper S-E. Weidman said Richard Hawkins was driving east on Bonstead Road about 7:30 a.m. when he apparently became blinded by the early morning sun. Weidman said the pickup truck crashed into the rear of a large farm truck parked on the shoulder of the road. The impact forced the second truck off into a nearby field. The trooper said the brothers were * pinned in the wreckage until extricated by members of the Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department. The driver was taken to the hospital by Moyers Corners ambulance. The parked vehicle was unoccupied at the time of the crash and was waiting to be loaded with farm produce from the nearby field. Investigation into the accident was continuing by state police.

 

 

 

Sept 18, 1978
Herald Journal
Smoke detector avoids injuries
     A smoke detector installed just three weeks ago was instrumental in saving six Liverpool residents from serious injure or death early today, according to Robert French first assistant, fire chief in the Moyers Corners Fire Department.  French said William Faulkrod, his wife, three children and a tenant were awakened by the smoke detector in their two family home about 5 am The six persons called authorities and escaped the home safely.  Volunteers from the Moyers Corners unit confined the  flames to a first floor den, which fire fighters believe was ignited bv a faulty electrical desk lamp. French said the fire apparently was smoldering for some time and would have continued to spread to the rest of the house if the smoke detector had not gone off. alerting the residents Although the fire was confined to the den the house suffered smoke and water damage firefighters noted 

 

Sept 20, 1978
The Baldwinsville Messenger– They’re counting on you
      $50,000 - that's the amount of money needed by the men of the Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department Ambulance Corps to make ends meet during the next year - and they're looking to you, the residents of their coverage 'area, for help. The area is a large one, totaling 34 square miles and ranging from the Long Branch Rd. vicinity on the south to Three Rivers in the north. They also serve the residents from the Belgium Bridge to the Taft Rd. Wegman's store and In all made some 1,500 calls last year to aid residents in those boundaries. Being a member of the ambulance service isn’t the easiest thing in the world. In fact, just getting in requires that one first past the rigid test for a volunteer fireman. As Dave Costello, lieutenant in charge of the ambulance service told us, "We're firemen first." But fortunately for the people living in the MCFD area, they're also proud to be a part of the "ambulance team. What does that mean? A lot. For example, they spend one night every three weeks at the fire house, located on Rt. 57 near the intersection of Rt. 31. Over 8700 hours of service manning the 10p.m. to 6a.m. shift were tallied in the past year. In addition, the men must be ready to respond when the siren is activated- and as stated before, that happened 1,500 times last year. Then there’s the training. Each crew consists of a driver who is trained in the techniques of safe high speed travel; an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) who must complete and pass an 81 hour course plus an eight hour stint in a hospital emergency room; and a paramedic.

 

     Just like on "Emergency" might be a good term to describe the work of the MCFD paramedic and although they aren't as well known as Gage or DeSoto, they're every bit as competent. The main difference is that when they take the .call that someone has been injured at your home, it isn't play acting. You can be certain that when Dave Costello and his crew reach your home,, they're possessing the latest equipment, and the most current training" available. Every paramedic that leaves on a call has completed the EMT course as described above plus an additional 120 hours in classroom training and 32 hours of specialized hospital training. "Our goal," says Costello, "is $50,000. This year we are asking each resident to double their last year's contribution. “We hope you agree that keeping first class emergency medical aid only minutes away and free of charge is a good investment. Please confirm this conviction when our volunteers knock at your door." What will the $50,000 be used for'' Day to day expenses for one. Purchase of supplies and maintenance of vehicles cost the department nearly $21,000 last year. Replacement of the second cardiac equipped ambulance is also in the budget - to the tune of $40,000. The used vehicle has been sold and will be replaced in the near future. It has over 90,000 miles of service and has required four major transmission repairs. The men of Moyers Corners need you. Their record is an excellent one; their dedication is unquestionable. All they need is the dollars and they're looking for your help. 

 

September 21st, 1978
Ambulance Open House, pictures

 

The auxiliary donated $1000.00 to the ambulance fund drive. The also held luncheons at the Plaza Nursing Home.

 

November 17th, 1978
Mixed Smoker, pictures 

 

November 20th, 1978
Officials Say Smoke Detector Saved Lives in L’pool Blaze
The Post-Standard
     A smoke detector was credited with saving the lives of a Liverpool couple whose home was extensively damaged by fire Sunday morning. Michael and Karen Sitnik were awakened about 10 a m. by the alarm from a smoke detector in their raised ranch home at 4760 Glencrest Road, according to a spokesman for the Moyers Corners Fire Department. Finding the lower level of the home fully involved in flames, they escaped andcalled the fire department. When firefighters arrived three minutes later, the fire had already spread to the upstairs bedroom "Absolutely" replied the spokesman when asked whether the smoke detector had saved the Sitniks' lives. The spokesman said Sitnik, a 29-year old Syracuse policeman, fully agrees with that assessment. The fire was caused by a candle left burning after a party in the first-floor family room Saturday night, according to the spokesman.  The party didn't end until 5 am. Sunday and the Sitniks would have slept well past 10am, had they not been awakened by the smoke alarm, the spokesman said About 50 Moyers Corners firefighters worked for 30 minutes to bring the fire under control. Firefighters from Liverpool and Phoenix stood by at the Moyers Corners station

 

 

 

December 1978
Vehicle extrication training, pictures

 

 

 

1979

 

Chief 
 First Assistant Chief: 
Second Assistant Chief 
Third Assistant Chief 
Captains: 
1st Captain, 2nd  Captain, 3rd Captain, 4th Captain, 5th  Captain, 6th Captain, 7th Captain, 8th Captain, 9th Captain 
Lieutenants: 1st Lieutenant, 2nd  Lieutenant, 3rd Lieutenant, 4th Lieutenant,  5th Lieutenant, 6th Lieutenant 

 

Executive Board
 President Ralph “Red” Cinnamon
Vice President 
Secretary, Assistant Secretary 
Treasurer, Assistant Treasurer

 

Fire Police:  Captain

 

Auxiliary: President Betty Hanlon, Vice President Charlotte Neal, Secretary Martha Arnold, Correspondence Secretary Pat Blake, Treasurer Joyce Bressette. Activities this year included a Harvest Dinner, Rummage Sale, Pie and Bread Sale, Fashion Show, two weddings, and a retirement party

 

     The tremendous growth and increase in alarm activities, and the need for timely response to the furthest southern area of the department’s district identified the need for an additional fire station. Forover thirty years, the department operated as a two station department; this changed with the construction and apparatus assignments to Fire Station Three.

 

     As the station was under construction in the late 1970’s, new personnel were recruited to man this fire station. These new firefighters reported to Station Two for an extended period of time prior to the completion of Station Three, in order to receive the appropriate training and gain operational experience. These personnel, as well as the existing Station Two personnel who lived in the newly established Station Three response area, would eventually compromise the station’s membership. As the area to the southeast grew more populated with residences and a large industrial park, protection for that area also became marginal and the third station was built in 1979.

 

Station 3 Construction
Kazmirski and Montani

 

Auxiliary held a Spaghetti Supper to supply the kitchen for Station 3. They also started helping the firemen with their pancake breakfasts on Sunday mornings.

 

1979 Letter to Town of Clay Residents
Dear Resident,

 

This year our Fire Department is undertaking a very aggressive Ambulance Fund Drive campaign with the hope of attaining a total contribution goal of $55,500. This total represents an increase of nearly 60% over the contributions received last year, largely due to inflation, the need to immediately replace one of our existing ambulances, and spiraling costs of supplies and equipment. Our goal must be reached if Moyers Corners is to continue to maintain the high level of professionalism that we have tried to display in past years.

 

Accomplishments

 

For the first time in New York State, our major insurance carrier has agreed to write our Ambulance Malpractice Insurance coverage as part of our vehicle insurance policy. Since we no longer must have a separate specialty policy to provide this coverage, we have realized a cost savings of nearly $2,500.  We have entered into an agreement with the Syracuse Chapter of the Heart Association whereby they are now paying for oxygen used on our two cardiac care-equipped ambulances As a member of the newly created group of individuals representing all Advanced Life Support organizations in Onondaga County, Moyers Corners will be allowed to share in the proceeds of “Heart Challenge ‘82” campaign spearheaded by the New York Chapter of the American Heart Association. This means that with a $3000 expenditure on our part we will be able to purchase $11,000 of much needed cardiac care equipment By successfully obtaining and maintaining official New York State Certification of our ambulance service, we are one of the few recipients of a valuable and highly useful telemetry radio, used for our patients with heart problems or serious injuries, at almost no cost to our department.  By designing our replacement ambulances as “modular” vehicles, we hope to be able to avoid having to purchase a complete vehicle when the need arises, but rather keep the basic structure and just replace the chassis. Again, a substantial cost savings.

 

     These are just a few of our exhaustive efforts to keep expenses down. Yet with new developments in medical technology, higher training standards, and even our own district’s development, we feel this goal of $55,500 is not excessive but rather conservative. When one remembers that this crucial medical service is operated solely on contributions from our community and not one single tax dollar pays for our expenses, the need for a successful Fund Drive becomes even more obvious. In this packet are many informative documents which we feel will help you obtain a better understanding of what Moyers Corners Ambulance Service is all about and how you and your family benefit from it. It is our hope that by providing  you with these facts you will be better able to find the means to financially support the ambulance service in as generous a manner as possible. As an added incentive, we are offering to place an individual tile inscribed with the name of every individual or family that contributes $25 or more to the Fund Drive in a prominent place on a wall of the new Moyers Corners Station #3 currently under construction. Your generous support is greatly needed. Please help us continue to provide emergency medical aid by making a tax-deductible donation to Moyers Corners Ambulance Fund when our members knock on your door in the next few days. Thank you for your understanding and consideration

 

Ralph Cinnamon, President

 

Moyers Corners Fire Department

 

Ambulance Fund Drive Committee

 

A Money Saving Tip For You
All of the area within the Moyers Corners Fire Department Fire Protection District is classified as “A” rated in fire protection. This can mean a substantial premium savings to you on your homeowners or tenants fire insurance policy. However, you must tell your insurance agent that Moyers Corners is your fire department (even though you may have a Baldwinsville, Clay, or Liverpool mailing address) in order to take advantage of this potential savings.

 

April 29th, 1979
The Post-Standard – Editorial Page
Lauds Ambulance
To the Editor:

 

To the men of the Moyers Corners Ambulance Department: I have lived in the Moyers Corners Fire Department District for years. Just recently iny wife had to use their ambulance service, I would like to say that they are very courteous and careful when moving a patient. The people who live in their district appreciate their service and the time they give 24 hours a day. I would like to saythank you and may God bless you for the work and time you give.

 

RAYMOND C. KIEBERT
4976 W. Taft Road
Liverpool

 

May 11th, 1979 
Thirty-five ladies attended their installation banquet at LeMoyne Manor. A plaque was given to Katie Schmidt for her 15 years of service as chaplain.

 

May 19th, 1979
      The tremendous growth and increase in alarm activities, and the need for timely response to the furthest southern area of the department’s district identified the need for an additional fire station. For over thirty years, the department operated as a two station department; this changed with the construction and apparatus assignments to Fire Station Three. As the station was under construction in the late 1970’s, new personnel were recruited to man this fire station. These new firefighters reported to Station Two for an extended period of time prior to the completion of Station Three, in order to receive the appropriate training and gain operational experience. These personnel, as well as the existing Station Two personnel who lived in the newly established Station Three response area, would eventually compromise the station’s membership. As equipment was added and the area continued to grow, a new building was erect at morgan and buckley. Modernized in 1981. As the area to the southeast grew more populated with residences and a large industrial park, protection for that area also became marginal and a third station was built in 1980.

 

Station 3 Construction – Groundbreaking – reception followed at Station 2
Kazmirski and Montani

 

May 24th, 1979
A spaghetti dinner was held by the auxiliary to help stock the kitchen for the new Station 3.

 

August 26th, 1979
Open House was held at Stations 1 and 2

 

December 1979
$50 was donated to the firemen’s home for Christmas by the auxiliary  and a flannel shirt and sweater vest was purchased for Harry Lent’s birthday.

 

1980

 

Chief Robert French
 First Assistant Chief: Chet Fritz
Second Assistant Chief Bud Neuman
Third Assistant Chief Phil Devaney
Captains: 1st Captain George Race, 2nd  Captain Terry Ludwig, 3rd Captain Dave Ferguson, 4th Captain Art Montani, 
5th  Captain Randy White, 6th Captain Tom Olszewski, 7th Captain Ketih Sahm, 8th Captain Randy White, 9th Captain Tom Olszweski
Lieutenants: 1st Lieutenant Bob Sumell, 2nd  Lieutenant Al Slater, 3rd Lieutenant Ron Turiello, 4th Lieutenant Ed Kazmirski,  5th Lieutenant Larry George, 6th Lieutenant Gary Stefanini

 

Executive Board
 President Ralph “Red” Cinnamon
Vice President Ed Fleming 
Secretary Gus Schairer, Assistant Secretary Bob Michelson
Treasurer Mike Derbyshire , Assistant Treasurer Art Bump

 

Fire Police:  Captain Will Michelson

 

Auxiliary: President Betty Hanlon, Vice President Charlotte Neal, Recording Secretary Martha Arnold, Corresponding Secretary Pat Blake, Treasurer Joyce Bressette, Chaplain Louise Gillespy

New Apparatus: TP-7  1980 Hahn, later became E11.  1980 Squad 2 International, assigned to Station 2. Later became Rescue 3 at Station 3.

 

New Fire Station: Station 3

 

February 14th, 1980
Ambulance Unit May Expand
The Post-Standard – Neighbors North
In response to the increasing demand for emergency medical services, the Moyers Corners Fire Department is considering expanding participation in ambulance service to those who do not wish to become active firefighters. An informational meeting will be 3 p.m. Sunday at Moyers Corners Fire Department Station No. 1, just north of the intersection of routes 31 and 57 in Clay. If you are interested in learning more about how to participate, telephone Rick Jones at 652- 8511 or write the department at P.O. Box 14, Liverpool 13088.

 

March 28th, 1980
Established on March 28th 1980 on Henry Clay Boulevard, between West Taft Road and the intersection of Vine Street, Station Three was constructed as a fully operational four bay fire station with a full compliment of facilities.  Twenty-Five years ago this month, the members of the Moyers Corners Fire Department in the Town of Clay noticed that there was a need for better/quicker response to the southern end of our district. After numerous man-hours of planning and brainstorming sessions, it was decided that there was a need for a third Fire station to better protect the citizens in that area. With that said, the new firehouse was constructed at the corners of Henry Clay Blvd and West Taft Road. Today, this is what we know as Moyers Corners Fire Station #3.

 

Moyers Corners Station 3 was opened at 12:01 am on March 28th, 1980. Asst. Chief Robert French opened the station as ordered by Chief Edwin Viel, Jr. We had no officers until the next business meeting on April 3rd, 1980. The original company of firefighters assigned to Station 3 were: Gary Adams, Dexter Blake, Dave Brigandi, Phil Devaney, Bob Feldman, Larry George, Mark Goettel, Blair Jackson, Cozi Jackson, Rick Jones, Ed Kazmirski, Jerry Miller, Tom Olszewski, Thomas Smith, Dave Sparks, Gary Stefanini, Ed Stevens, Jim Stoch, Randy White, Ron Wilbur, Steve Wilbur, Steve Wisely, Gene Young, John Perkins, Art Montani, Greg Tiner. 
Station 3 1980 Officers: 4th Asst. Chief Phil Devaney, 1st Captain Art Montani, 2nd Captain Randy White, 3rd Captain Tom Olszewski, 1st Lt. Ed Kazmirski, 2nd Lt. Larry George, 3rd Lt. Gary Stefanini.

 

Opening Night at Station 3 pictures 

 

Original Apparatus 

 

In 1980, a scholarship was started for the children of a Fire Department member, and Auxiliary member, or an Explorer. Two $1,000 scholarships are handed out each year.

 

In 1980, work was underway for the expansion of Station 2. The new expansion included the addition of three apparatus bays (to eliminate "stacking" of apparatus, one behind the other), renovation of the existing recreation room into an ambulance bay, a conference/bunk room for meetings and overnight standbys, and construction of a full kitchen, a day room, and office areas.

Medical Rescue Squad Formed

 

By the 1980s, the ambulance call volume increased to a level that was difficult for the firefighters to continue to meet, on a daily basis. This prompted the formation of the Medical Rescue Squad; consisting of a group of medical personnel, within the department, who attended to the EMS calls. When it was formed there were approximately 60 members.  The squad staffed their three advanced life support ambulance 24/7/365.

 

May 1980 
Pancake Breakfast

 

June 7th, 1980
Station 3 Dedication – New Pictures

 

July 1980
Field Days – New Pictures

 

July 7th, 1980
Driver Dies
The Post-Standard – Local News
David R. Stafford, 56, of Huntley Road. Phoenix RD 1, died Sunday morning in a one-car crash on Route 57 south of Phoenix near Ihe Onondaga County line police said. According lo lown of Clay police, who investigated the 8:29 a.m. accident, Stafford was driving north when his car struck an abutment on the south end of the Three Rivers Bridge. Police said the car flew 84 feet through the air before landing on its roof in the Oneida River, which is about 10 feet deep al that point. Stafford's body and the submerged wreckage of his 1969 Oldsmobile were recovered by members of the Moyers Corners Fire Department and the Phoenix Rescue Unit's diving team. Clay police said Iheir inveslgalion of the fatality is slill under way. They were assisted at the scene by the Oswego Count Sheriff’s Department and New York State Police.

 

November 1980
Rescue at Norstar Apartments
At 6:35 a.m. Moyers Corners Fire Department responded to a structure fire at the Norstar Apartments off of Henry Clay Boulevard. Arriving first, Steve Wisely and Greg Tiner were told by apartment residents that there was a child inside of the burning apartment. With the use of their air tanks, they entered the apartment that had already filled with blinding black smoke. The heat of the fire had brought temperatures in the apartment to more than 1,000 degrees. The firemen inched their way through the apartment on their bellies. In the darkness, Wisely felt the body of a little boy. His partner (Greg Tiner) cleared the broken glass from the bedroom window. Then Wisely handed the child to a fellow fireman (Dave Morgan), who was waiting on the ladder at the window. The child was rushed by ambulance to a city hospital. “In any situation like this, you are there for a purpose – to beat the clock, not to miss the person you are searching for,” Wisely said. “This was a team effort”.

 

November 14th, 1980
The Post-Standard – Local News
Fire Victim, 3, ‘Critical’
A Liverpool youngster was listed in critical condition at Upstate Medical Center early today after a fire at a 4764 Norstar Blvd. apartment early Thursday. - John Lizzio Jr., 3, had stopped breathing when he was rescued from the apartment by Greg Tiner and Steve Wisely of the Moyers Corners Fire Department, according to firemen. His mother, Jeanne, 24, and his two month-old brother, Brian, were listed in fair condition. They were originally listed in serious condition. Mrs. Lizzio awoke about 6:30 a.m. to find the living room couch on fire and the apartment filled with smoke. Her husband, John Sr, had left for work at Crouse-Hinds Co. about 15 minutes earlier, according to Capt. Thomas Bottar of the Clay Police Department. Robert Schottocfer and Anthony Tarzia, Western Electric employees on their way to work, spotted smoke pouring from theapartment.  Mrs. Lizzio was at a window in Ihe second- floor aoartment. and the men caueht  Brian when she dropped him to them. They then coaxed her to jump. The two men knocked on windows on the ground floor of the apartment complex to arouse sleeping residents. Mrs. Lizzio then attempted to re-enter the- building to rescue John Jr. but was  turned back by the thick smoke. When firefighters arrived and were informed of the trapped child, they rushed inside. Tiner and Wisely found the youth unconscious in bed and passed him through the window to other department members. The fire in the four-room apartment was brought under control in about 20 minutes, while other complex residents were evacuated. Fire Chief Robert French said there was not much fire, "but there was a lot of heavy smoke." It took about an hour to ventilate the structure. , According to Boltar, there was a smoke detector in the apartment, but it did not have a battery.

 

 

 

1981

 

Chief Robert French
 First Assistant Chief: Chet Fritz
Second Assistant Chief Ken Brand Jr.
Third Assistant Chief Art Montani
Captains: 1st Captain George Race, 2nd  Captain Charles Romanick, 3rd Captain Ron Turiello, 4th Captain Ed Kazmirski, 
5th  Captain Larry Earle, 6th Captain Ken Filow, 7th Captain Steve Wisely, 8th  Captain Kevin Sahm, 9th Captain John Perkins
Lieutenants: 1st Lieutenant Bob Sumell, 2nd  Lieutenant Dick Perkins, 3rd Lieutenant Keith Sahm, 4th Lieutenant Chris Naum,  5th Lieutenant George Gobin, 6th Lieutenant Greg Tiner, 7th Lieutenant Dave Ferguson, 8th Lieutenant Tom McKearney, 9th Lieutenant Tom Olszewski

 

Executive Board
 President Edward Fleming
Vice President John Diliberto 
Secretary Bob Michelson, Assistant Secretary Dave Fleming
Treasurer Art Bump , Assistant Treasurer Larry “Dink” Miller

 

Fire Police:  Captain Will Michelson   Lieutenants: Ken Brand Sr, Bob Swahn

 

Ambulance Admins: Administrator John Funnell, 1st Assistant Pete Kenyon, 2nd Assistant Mike Derbyshire

 

Auxiliary: President Charlotte Neal, Vice President Norma Guinta, Recording Secretary Terry Jaynes, Corresponding Secretary Carolyn Funnell, Treasurer Jean Jones, Chaplain Louise Gillespy

 

Firehouse addition: Station 2 Addition

 

As equipment was added and the area continued to grow, a new building was erect at Morgan and Buckley. modernized in 1981. As the area to the southeast grew more populated with residences and a large industrial park, protection for that area also became marginal and third station was built in 1980.

 

January 28th, 1981
Statistics Tell The Story 
Baldwinsville Messenger - Progress Edition
Statistics often tell a story and for the Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department the story they tell is one of devotion, dedication, service and bravery. The men and women who give their time to the department responded to 370 fire calls and 1300 ambulance calls in 1980. According to President Ralph Cinnamon, those numbers indicate continued increasesover the 1979 figures. "By April of this year-we will have doubled our plant size and be better equipped to serve the growing population of the Clay area for which we are responsible," says the young man. He adds praise for Chief Robert French who is a dedicated leader to the group.

 

Founded in 1948, Moyers Corners originally was geared only toward fire protection in the Town of Clay. Now, however, the team has expanded and updated their bylaws to allow members and non-members to volunteer to serve in the medical emergency squad: Once there just a "fire barn" but today there are a total of three up-to-date, efficient facilities where about 45 men at each station provide emergency service. In addition there are 65 volunteers manning (a term to be applied to several women too) the medical rescue squad.

 

"Our goal is to provide at least one manned vehicle which is on 24 hours daily," says Cinnamon. He explains that the squad has two New York Certified Cardiac Equipped Advance Life Support Vehicles to operate with. One important focus for the department has been fire prevention. They spearhead several projects aimed at education of the public in terms of teaching people to avoid fires and how to react if they are faced with a; fire. They sponsored a program in cooperation with the Syracuse Fire Department for the residents of the Norstar Apartments showing residents there where to place smoke detectors for the highest efficiency, how to Check for flames in the hall and how to call for help in an emergency. Moyers Corners VFD assisted the teachers of "Safety Town" in the Town of Clay by allowing the youngsters to tour the station and reinforcing the "drop and roll" technique they had been taught at Safety Town.

 

They are in the initial stages of instituting "Learn Not to Burn" programs in the local schools. Concerned with all aspects of safety, the VFD has cooperated with the Town of Clay Safety Committee in sponsoring and distributing the "Vial of Life" program for elderly residents of the community. Cinnamon explained that while fire protection is provided through funds from town government, emergency medical care is not. It is primarily for the medical emergency squad which they have fund raising drives as that segment is funded entirely through private donation. The people in our area and we are growing to meet the demands of an expanding population. It promises to be an exciting year ahead for  us, “ concludes Cinnamon.

 

February 8th, 1981
Car-train crash injures couple
Herald Journal
Moyers Corners rescue workers and police carry a Liverpool couple over the tracks to an ambulance after they were injured when the family car and a Conrail freight train collided yesterday afternoon at a crossing on Morgan Road, north of Wetzel Road in town of Clay. The couple’s infant daughter miraculously escaped unharmed. Steve Fleury, 28, of 7475 Morgan Road and his wife, Elizabeth, last night were listed in fair condition at Crouse-Irving Memorial Hospital. Their seven month-old daughter, Johanna, was strapped into a baby seat in the rear of the car and was not hurt according to Sheriff’s Deputy Douglas Jacoby. Fleury was issued a ticket for failing to stop at a train crossing and is to appear in court February 19th. The impact pushed the car about 90 feet down the tracks and off onto an embankment, Jacoby said.

 

Pictures

 

February 22, 1981
Woman dies, 3 hurt in crash. 
Picture with chain on hood. 
Moyers Corners firefighters work to free Mildred Fabozzi from her crushed vehicle.

 

March 26th, 1981
Herald-Journal
A school bus accident disaster drill is being co-sponsored by the North Syracuse Volunteer Fire Department and the North Area Volunteer Ambulance Corps, Inc. at 9 a.m. Sunday at the North Syracuse Central School District bus garage, East Taft Road in North Syracuse. The fire department and ambulance personnel will be faced with more than 30 "injured." The "injured" students and their "injuries" will be treated and  transported to St. Joseph's Health Center Emergency Department for further "treatment." The accident "victims" will be Explorer Scouts from Hinsdale Volunteer Fire Department, Moyers Corners Fire Department and NAVAC as well as Advanced First Aid and Health students from Jamesville-DeWitt High School.

 

May 20th, 1981
Car kills pedestrian
Continuation…
Herald-Journal
…had spotted Riley walking in the road at about 8 a.m. and told him not to walk in the middle of the street. Riley didn't appear drunk to Craig, according to Bottar. The captain added police received several calls during the night that Riley was walking around the road. And members of Moyers Corners Fire Department said they had seen him on Route 57 at about 11 p.m. but didn't notify police, Bottar said. The captain said he plans to ask the fire authorities why they didn't call police  Bob French,. Moyers Corners'fire chief, couldn't be reached for comment. Bottar said Riley "was kind of like a wanderer' who apparently had no family in this area. He said Riley often slept on park benches when he had nowhere else to sleep. Riley had been arrested Saturday on criminal mischief and harassment charges, Bottar said. Today's accident, which occurred near the intersection of Wetzel road, was investigated by Officer David Whitlock.

 

July 3rd, 1981 Plane Crash at Field Days (article)
Moyers Corners Fire Department member Paul Marshall was taking fellow member Charles Romanick up in his plane to take aerial photographs of the field days. 

 

September 28th, 1981
Herald-Journal – In Your Opinion Section
Safety Town
For three summers, I have directed and taught the Safety Town program sponsored by the town of Clay Department of Recreation and Human Resources. During this time, I worked with the Moyers Corners Fire Department and Ambulance Corps and NAVAC. To the volunteer firemen who gave their time to the children at Safety Town to help teach fire safety and fire prevention... To the medics who came to Safety Town with the ambulance and the equipment and gave of their time to help Thank you. The Safety Town program would not be nearly as effective without your help and expertise! Parents, your support is needed now. Support the ambulance drive with a generous donation.

 

PEGGY GRAY,
Safety Town Director,

 

Town of Clay.

 

 

 

1982

 

Chief Robert French
 First Assistant Chief: Chet Fritz
Second Assistant Chief Ken Brand Jr.
Third Assistant Chief Art Montani
Captains: 1st Captain Ken Filow, 2nd  Captain Steve Wisely, 3rd Captain Ron Turiello, 4th Captain Larry Earle, 5th  Captain Chris Naum, 6th Captain John Perkins, 7th Captain Kevin Sahm, 8th  Captain Greg Tiner, 9th Captain Dick Perkins
Lieutenants: 1st Lieutenant Palmer (Mike) App, 2nd  Lieutenant George Gobin, 3rd Lieutenant Dave Fleming, 4th Lieutenant Ed Kazmirski,  5th Lieutenant Don Collett, 6th Lieutenant Gary Cottrell, 7th Lieutenant Tom McKearney, 8th Lieutenant Dave Morgan, 9th Lieutenant Al Slater

 

Executive Board
 President Edward Fleming
Vice President Frank Tietz 
Secretary Bob Michelson
Treasurer Art Bump

 

Fire Police:  Captain Will Michelson 
 Lieutenants: Ken Brand Sr, Bob Swahn, Tom Olsweski

 

Ambulance Admins: Administrator Ralph “Red” Cinnamon, 1st Assistant Mike Derbyshire, 2nd Assistant Bob Fitz,

 

Auxiliary: President Norma Guinta, Vice President Carolyn Funnel, Recording Secretary Pat Barrett, Treasurer Rosemary Morgan, Chaplain Sondra Swahn

 

New Apparatus: 1982 Ambulance 1

 

January 9th, 1982
Herald Journal – Front Page
Hunt resumes for missing camper
The hunt for a 20-year-old Clarkson College student resumed at dawn today in a thickly wooded region in the town of Lysander, where the man had been camping with others Thursday night. But by noon, there were no new leads about the man's whereabouts, despite the attempts of more than 120 members of a coordinated search team, according to Sgt. Jim Wolf of the Sheriff's Department. A newstrategy was to be undertaken this afternoon with the use of a heat-sensing infrared device, which would be used from the Sheriff's Department helicopter over the snow-covered surface. The equipment, which has the ability to detect changes in temperature beneath the visible ground surface, was loaned to the search team by the Syracuse Fire Department. Members of the Belgium-Cold Springs Fire Department, Oswego Rescue, Adirondack" Rescue, Moyers Corners Fire Department and the Onondaga County Sheriff's Department, plus some volunteers "and family friends, picked up their search for Carl Markert at 8:45 a.m. today, using the Belgium-Cold Springs Fire Station on West River Road as the central dispatch point for the manhunt. An intense search yesterday over the snow-capped terrain proved fruitless and was disbanded at sunset, although some family members and friends continued their search with the use of flashlights, against the wishes of the Sheriff's Department which feared additional people would get lost in the darkness. Nearly 100 searchers .were involved at the height of the firat-day hunt .through the thick woods off Patchett Road/covered by at least two feet of snow. The Sheriff's Department had begun its operations on the site after being notified around 11 a.m 

 

January 18th, 1982
Herald-Journal – Metro Edition
7 firemen hurt battling blaze
Seven volunteer firemen with the Moyers Corners Fire Department received minor injuries at the scene of a fire today that destroyed Jerry's Country Inn on Route 57 in the Three Rivers area, according to assistant fire chief Chet Fritz. The restaurant/bar was declared a total loss after firemen from eight fire companies in Oswego and Onondaga counties battled the flames for much of the morning after responding to the initial call late last night. Although the structure was destroyed, firemen managed to remove some "band equipment and other materials. said, were taken to local hospitals for assorted minor injuries, including bruises from falling on the ice and smoke inhalation, and later were discharged. Firefighting efforts, he said, were hampered by frozen hydrants in the vicinity, requiring several other fire units to bring in their tankers. Companies responding were Moyers Corners, Phoenix, Cody, Caughdenoy, Pennellville, Clay, Volney and Liverpool. "We were driven out several times. Finally, the fire got in the crawl spaces and there was no stopping it," said Fritz. He described the 11/2-story structure as a very old building. The seven injured firemen, Fritz 

 

January 27th, 1982
Messenger – Progress Edition
Fire dept. offers challenge
There is a tremendous challenge to the men and women who serve as volunteers in the Moyers Corners Fire Department and ambulance squad. They work every day for the safety and welfare of a growing population in the Northern Sector of Onondaga County. It is a challenge which they accept when they agree to serve and it is challenge well met. President Ed Fleming praises the men and women of the department for their dedication He relates statistics showing that last year they responded to 373 fire calls and 1,367 emergency calls. The fire department, which has been in operation since 1948 when they worked from one " fire barn" to control fires in the Town of Clay, has grown to the point where it now supports three up to date fire stations. Each station is manned by about 45 volunteers. The past year saw the addition of a $112,000 tanker/pumper and a new squad truck. Fire operations are supported by tax dollars but ambulance and emergency squad work is supported only through donations. There is a 65-member ambulance squad which has members on duty 24 hours a day. . Of those, about 35 people are trained as EMT's (emergency medical technicians). Fleming notes the important commitment of time these people make in order to serve their neighbors. "An EMT takes 81 hours of training and a medic has 120 hours plus in-hospital training in order to perform their duties. We really appreciate these people. There are many women on the squad who are willing to work during the day and several couples participate."

 

Several members have attended the National Fire Academy where they have studied medical specialist training, air mask maintenance work, school inspection and training officers workshop. Fire Prevention is a major thrust of Moyers Corners Fire Department officials. Under the direction of Chief Robert French, the men have lectured homeowner's groups and brought safety information to apartment dwellers throughout the area. The fire department is big business with a budget of over $363,000. It is a private corporation which contracts with the Town of Clay to provide fire service for residents. "This year we held our budget to a zero increase," says Fleming. He says it is a source of great satisfaction to him and to the members to know that they have established a good working relationship with the town. "The rapport we-have is certainly beneficial to both sides," he declares. The department has received recognition from area safety groups for its expert response to accident and fire calls. Two men, Steve Wisely and Greg Tiner, were awarded the 'Firehouse Magazine" heroism award for their life-saving action in an apartment fire in Clay. Fleming believes that the men and women who serve in the emergency squad as well as those in the fire department have met the challenges of 1981 through their hard work and dedication. "He looks forward to the coming year as one of continued growth and service under the leadership of French. "We'll need the support of the residents and the business community in order to keep our equipment in top shape and offer the best possible service” he concludes

 

June 2nd, 1982 
Monarch Chemical Truck Spill
Approximately 2000 gallons of sodium hypochlorite, a bleach, leaked from an LCP Chemical truck on Route 31 east of Moyers Corners. The truck was en route to Vestal when a half-inch hole developed near the intake valve. The Moyers Corners Fire Department and State Department of Environmental Conservation responded. One fireman received minor injuries from an alkaline burn. The neighborhood was evacuated. LCP’s spill  control team was at the scene where a dike was put around the truck to contain the spilled chemical, most of which was removed by noon. The chemical is used in water purification.

 

July 15th, 1982
Herald Journal
Youngsters evacuated
Youngsters attending several programs at the Wetzel Road Elementary School in Clay were evacuated from the building this morning when the sun's heat apparently caused a bird's nest under the roof to begin smoldering. Third Assistant Fire Chief Art Montani of the Moyers Corners Fire Department said there was no actual fire and only minimal smoke damage. Montani said birds apparently got beneath an overhang at the rear of the school building and built nests in the crawl space between the roof and ceiling. Firefighters, responding to the alarm just before 10 a.m., had to enter the crawlspace from the front of the building and make their way the entire length of the school to the rear in order to clear away the smoldering nests, he said. Montani explained it appeared the heat from the morning sun had started the nests smoldering, prompting someone in the building to notify fire officials of a smoke odor.

 

August 1982
Building Collapse
picture

 

September 9th, 1982
Letter from Richard Crisp
Herald Journal
Ambulance funds
"We have come a long way" is the theme around which the Moyers Corners Fire Department will spearhead their 1982 ambulance fund-raising drive. The past five years have seen the steady growth of medically trained personnel within the department allowing the introduction and use of the more complex equipment that before was strictly emergency room based. The implementation of the squad concept has assured the availability of a 24-hour stand by emergency medical team contrasted to only the evening stand-by of prior years. Equally important, from a single ambulance, the squad has grown to two fully equipped advance life support ambulances with a third ambulance available should its service be called upon. This month, the Moyers Corners Fire Department is asking for positive "response" to their appeal for funds. Fire protection is provided via the tax base. In direct contrast, all medical services from the purchase of an ambulance, to the simplest bandage is funded by your contribution. No tax dollars can be used find this service.

 

RICHARD CRISP,
Chairman,
Public Safety Committee, Town of Clay

 

 

 

September 30th, 1982
Herald Journal
Truck Overturns
Article Picture
The driver of a garbage truck escaped serious injury early today when his vehicle overturned in the middle of Henry Clay Boulevard. Moyers Corners firemen were at the scene to hose down escaping gasoline. State Police investigated. No cause for the accident was given.

 

October 22nd, 1982
Herald Journal
30 flee apartment fire
About 30 persons were evacuated when a suspicious fire did extensive damage to two apartments in a town of Clay apartment complex overnight, according to fire officials. Moyers Corners Fire Department Chief Robert French said the fire at the Heritage Park apartments on Wetzel Road was confined to the basement where the fire began and two apartments directly above the location where the fire broke out about 3:20 am. today, French said the fire started in the basement of Building 4A but quickly spread through the walls to all three floors of the building. He said it took firemen half an hour to bring the blaze under control A resident who smelled smoke called fire officials to report the blaze and firefighters arrived at the scene to find smoke pouring from the building People already were leaving the building when firefighters arrived on the scene, but firemen conducted a search of each of the 24 apartments to be sure that all residents had been evacuated, French said. 'The fire chief said the blaze was a hid den fire that traveled through the partitions from the basement to the top floor, causing extensive damage to the apartments in the path of flames. In addition, there was considerable water damage to the basement, French said. Residents of all but the two heavily damaged apartments were able to return to their homes when firefighters left the scene about 6:30 sun., he said. There were no injuries to residents or firefighters, French said. In addition to Moyers Corners, the Liverpool Fire Department was at the scene, he added. French said the blaze is being considered suspicious in origin and that investigation is continuing

 

November 30th, 1982
Herald Journal
30 tenants evacuated in town of Clay fire
Fire investigators are looking for the cause of a fire at a town of Clay apartment complex that did extensive damage to several apartments and forced the evacuation of about 30 people from their homes last night. The blaze at Denby Acres apartments on Henry Clay Boulevard did considerable damage to four or five apartments in the building, but no injuries were reported, said Chester Fritz, first assistant chief for the Moyers Corners Fire  Department. Fritz said the blaze was reported about 10:45 p.m. and that most residents were leaving the building by the time firefighters arrived.  He said the fire started in the basement and extended up through all three floors of the building. Fire and water damage was extensive in four or five apartments, Fritz said, but he indicated most residents of the building would be able to return to their homes later today. Firefighters were back at the scene of the blaze this morning; the cause of the fire is under investigation, Fritz said. Assisting were fire departments from Liverpool, North Syracuse. Phoenix and Hinsdale.

 

Profile of a Medic
By Richard Crisp
When a Moyers Corners fireman decides to become a New York State Certified Coronary or Trauma Medic, he probably feels the chapters on drugs are written in a foreign language, and the diagrams in the various texts look like an advanced combined college physiology, anatomy, and bio-chemistry text designed for medical students. But as the classes progress, and they include almost 250 hours of classroom work plus 30 hours of emergency room practical experience, the trainee becomes more familiar with the intricacies of the human body and how to cope with the various medical emergencies plus various life-saving techniques.

 

A medic, however, is much more than a person who is an expert in dealing with the human body and its malfunctions. He is a “giving person” – giving in many areas that are very dear in this present age of inflation and never having enough time for oneself. One little known fact is that a medic will pay for much of his own personal equipment. I talked to several medics to get an average out of pocket expense figure which one could expect to incur in the first year as a certified medic. Believe it or not, the blue light can cost from $40 to $140; most medics will pick the middle of the line style. The light is essential for the safety of all volunteer firemen to help expedite their response to the fire station or directly to the scene of the illness or accident.

 

Then, there is the equipment the average medic will carry in his own car as it is often quicker for him to go directly to the scene. The first aid kit, when fully stocked, will cost around $50. The equipment needed to take an accurate blood pressure reading and heart rate averages from $25 on up. Have you ever noticed the holster a medic will wear on his belt with a small light and scissors on it? That alone is another $15 or better. Though all this equipment is also on the ambulance, it is essential that each medic and most emergency medical technicians have these “first responder kits” available at all times. The quick direct response to the scene by the medic, his medical knowledge, and the first aid equipment have often been credited with the saving of a human life. Many of the Moyers Corners Fire Department medics volunteer to work on the nightly stand-by crew, from 10 p.m. until 6 a.m., along with a driver and emergency medical technician. The white uniforms these men wear will cost up to $35 a set. When added to the other expense figures, one can see that the total cost is well over $200, and for some perhaps close to $300. A final but very significant cost incurred by these medically trained volunteers centers around all the hours away from home: responding to ten to fifteen ambulance calls per week, plus one night of stand-by duty each week, plus a night per week for fire department drills, and countless others in support of the many department committees all add up to numerous empty gas tanks of their private vehicles. With fuel exceeding $1.00 per gallon, yet another aspect of the generosity and dedication of these men becomes evident.

 

There is one final area that is not often talked about by the men, but which draws a very definite response from the families of the firemen and medical personnel alike. The wives and children are very proud of what their husbands and/or fathers have done to help others with their vast knowledge, but they miss them as they are so frequently away from the home and family. All the family is adversely affected not just from the time spent on routine calls or the various meetings, but also when special family plans are suddenly interrupted and have to be rescheduled because of an emergency call. A friend once said his son-in-law was called away twice from Christmas dinner, a story not uncommon for the families of firemen and ambulance personnel.

 

We as residents of the districts served by Moyers Corners Fire Department Ambulance are fortunate that we have people who have the expert medical knowledge, the willingness to dig into their pockets to personally equip themselves with emergency medical kits, and give much, if not all, of their free time for us the residents of their protection district.

 

Please remember these characteristics when the members of the Moyers Corners Fire Department knock on your door this September or visit your place of business during the annual Ambulance Fund Drive. The ambulance service is run strictly by donations; not one of your tax dollars is spent for this vital service. Won’t you dig a little deeper into your pocket to help these deserving volunteers reach their budgeted goal of $55,000 and keep the ambulance service at its current efficient and professional level?

 

 

 

1983

 

Chief Robert French
 First Assistant Chief: Chet Fritz
Second Assistant Chief Ken Brand Jr.
Third Assistant Chief Art Montani
Captains: 1st Captain Ken Filow, 2nd  Captain Dick Perkins, 3rd Captain Kevin Sahm, 4th Captain Steve Wisely, 5th  Captain Chris Naum, 6th Captain Keith Sahm, 7th Captain John Perkins, 8th  Captain Ron Turiello, 9th Captain Greg Tiner
Lieutenants: 1st Lieutenant Larry Earle, 2nd  Lieutenant George Race, 3rd Lieutenant Palmer (Mike) App, 4th Lieutenant Dave Morgan,  5th Lieutenant Tim Chura, 6th Lieutenant George Gobin, 7th Lieutenant Steve Mauser, 8th Lieutenant Ed Kazmirski

 

Executive Board
 President Edward Fleming
Vice President Frank Tietz 
Secretary Bob Michelson, Assistant Secretary Tony LaMacchia 
Treasurer Art Bump, Assistant Treasurer Bob Swahn

 

Fire Police:  Captain Will Michelson 
 Lieutenants: Ken Brand Sr, Bob Swahn, Tom Olsweski

 

Ambulance Admins: Administrator Larry George, 1st Assistant Martha Arnold, 2nd Assistant Bob Fitz, 3rd Assistant Lynn Shaw

 

Auxiliary: President Norma Guinta, Vice President Carolyn Funnel, Recording Secretary Beth Sahm,  Corresponding Secretary Gretchen Cottrell, Treasurer Rosemary Morgan, Chaplain Jo Guinta

 

New Apparatus: Deliver of Mini 1 – Sanford
Mini 1 – GMC 1 Ton Crew Cab Purchased to cross weight restricted horseshoe island bridge. 
Sold when the new bridge opened.

 

February 10th, 1983
Clay Boy Burned
The Post Standard
Call came in at 1552
A 4-year-old Clay boy was listed in stable condiation early today at Upstate Medical Center after he received burns in an afternoon fire at his home. First Assistant Chief Chet Fritz of Moyers Corners Fire Department said Gary Butchino apparently had been playing with a lighter in the Hollyrood Park apartment complex. The fire was contained in the apartment, which is at 11 Grampton Court.

 

February 10th, 1983
Woman Rescued After Fall In to Well
By Retta Blaney and Deirdre Childress
A 67-year old West Monroe woman on her way home from a visit to her physician fell into a 35-foot-deep well Wednesday afternoon, sitting in the 2 ½ feet of water until a firefighter was lowered into the well to rescue her. Frances Teller of Gulf Bridge Road was in fair condition at Crouse-Irving Memorial Hospital Wednesday night after being treated for a fractured ankle and a back injury, her physician, Dr. Stephen Silbiger, said. Town of Clay police said Mrs. Teller left Silbiger’s office at 4815 Buckley Road about 2:30 p.m. and walked toward her car, which was parked next to the building, with her husband Irving. As she walked around to the passenger side of the car, she fell into the 24-inch wide well, police said.

 

Rescue workers spend about 15 minutes vainly trying to free Mrs. Teller before a Moyers Corners firefighter climbed down the shaft. “I didn’t know how bad she was injured, but I figured she hurt her back and spine by the way she was positioned,” said Nick Peluso, the firefighter who rescued Mrs. Teller. “She was waist deep in water. If the water had been any deeper, she would have drowned.” Peluso said he saw no bleeding or other injuries, adding that the woman complained of pain in her back. “She could move her arms, but she couldn’t move her legs,” he said. “The only thing we were worried about was getting her out fast.” Sibiger said Mrs. Teller was “neurologically intact” after the 35-foot fall. She had remained conscious during the incident, Clay police said. Police said there was a metal cover found near the well, but it was unknown whether the well was capped before Mrs. Teller fell. Silbiger said he and his nurse daily check to see that the metal cover is on the well. Both checked Wednesday morning and the cover was on, he said.

 

News Interview with Nick Peluso:
“I just told her I was coming down, told her what I had to do, tried to make her as comforatable as possible. There was a strong sewage smell down there. It didn’t appear to be a toxic atmosphere so I wasn’t worried about it. I just wanted to get her out of there.”

 

News Interview with Chief Robert French:
“Anytime you’re below grade like this there is a danger, of course, that’s why time was so important because of her air supply. We had made provisions to bring air in and pump air down to her but we were worried about the time between now and then.”

 

February 23, 1983
The Review
Nick Peluso, a Liverpool High School senior, and a member of the Moyers Corners Fire Department, was instrumental recently in rescuing a local woman who had fallen 30 feet into a narrow well shaft. “The officer in charge of the rescue, Greg Tiner, asked me to go down,” said Nick, “and I just used the techniques I had been trained to use.” “At first I put on full breathing apparatus, but the well opening was too small.” Lowered on ropes, Nick found the victim wedged deeply in a small hole at the bottom of the shaft. Finding the space too small to use his belt, he secured the victim’s arms, while communicating observations about her condition to firemen above by way of a radio that had been lowered into the cavity. “I watched her being hauled to the surface,” said Nick, “and when I realized she would not clear the small opening, I ‘spidermanned’ up the wall to support her from below.” The young fireman says he felt no fear during the dramatic rescue, and credits his fire department training for his calm handling of the situation. While all Moyers Corners firemen are required to take essential firemanship courses, Nick takes as many as he can. Currently he is working on a report for his high school-college English class about hazardous rescues. “I want to learn more about rescues involving hazardous substances, and I thought this might be a good way to motivate some research,” he said. Nick is very enthusiastic about the courses available to Moyers Corners firemen and cites some designed by his crew chief Christopher Naum, as some of the best.

 

Nick, who was elected a full-fledged member of the department on his birthday last June, was a junior fireman for two years. He feels it a privilege to belong to such an outstanding fire department. The son of Mr. and Mrs. Sam Politi of 4333 Luna Course plans a career as a professional fireman. He has applied to the University of Maryland’s National Firemen’s School and to OCC for further firemanship training.

 

March 1983
Liverpool House Fire Kills Elderly Man
Herald Journal
An unidentified elderly man perished in a fire Tuesday at 8149 Oswego Road in Liverpool. Sheriff’s department spokesman Bob Burns said the man was believed to be the sole occupant of the two-story, wood-frame home. Burns said fire investigators believe the dead man owned the home, but he refused to release the man’s name until the body has been identified. The body is being held for examination by the Onondaga County medical examiner. Moyers Corners Fire Department Chief Bob French said several reports of the blaze were phoned in to the department about 4:30 p.m., probably by residents of the nearby Casual Estates mobile home park. Although the cause of the fire is still under investigation, Franch said fire officials belive it bgan in the kitchen and spread, leaving extensive structural damage to the rear of the home. There was also extensive water and smoke damage to the building.

 

May 4th, 1983
Tornado ruins memories, too
By Patricia Rycraft
The Post-Standard
pictures
Al Davis wept at a bulldozer and grader knocked over what remained of his house. "There's a lot of sentimental things in there after just 2l/2 years," Davis said, "a lot of memories." Monday night's tornado leveled most of the house in the town of Clay where he and his wife. Sonja, have lived for 2 years. Part of the house was left standing lopsided by the storm, and was collapsing slowly yesterday. "We just can't take the chance that it will go down on its own," said Art Montani of the Moyers Corners Fire Department. So, the rest of the house had to be knocked down by the Onondaga County Division of Highways. The young couple watched the first house they had owned crumble to the ground.

 

May 23rd, 1983
Auxiliary Installation Banquet
Twin Trees Fore Restaurant

 

President – Norma Guinta

 

Vice President – Carolyn Funnell

 

Treasurer – Rosemary Morgan

 

Recording Secretary – Beth Sahm

 

Corresponding Secretary – Gretchen Cottrell

 

Chaplain – Jo Guinta

 

May 28th, 1983
Memorial Day Parade
pictures 

 

July 21st, 1983
Teen-age firefighter honored for bravery
The Post-Standard – Neighbors North Edition
By Tom Rose
Nicholas Peluso was a high school senior the day Frances Teller, 67, of West Monroe went to see her physician in the town of Clay. Teller left Dr. Stephen Silbiger's office at 4815 Byckley Road about 2:30 p.m. Feb. 9 and walked toward her car with her husband. As she walked around to the passenger side of the vehicle, she fell into a 24-inch wide, 35-foot deep well. Peluso was one of the Moyers Corners firefighters who responded to the rescue call. He climbed down the well to rescue the woman who had suffered a fractured ankle and a back injury. Friday he was honored with the County Executive's medal for heroism at the annual Onondaga County Volunteer Firemen's Association convention. County Executive John Mulroy presented the award.

 

Mulroy said Peluso was "an example of the outstanding character of young people today and their dedication to the community" and cited him for "confidence, courage and bravery." 'There is no doubt his actions saved the life of Mrs. Teller,” Mulroy said. Peluso was escorted by an honor guard from the Moyers Corners Fire

 

Department and received prolonged applause after Mulroy pinned the medal on his uniform. After the ceremony, Peluso said he did not think of his own safety during the rescue. "I concentrated mostly on what I had to do." "I'm happy I'm getting a rnedal, but it's really not called for," he said. "There should be no awards given for doing what you're trained to do." His actions were judged by the volunteer firefighters' association to be the "outstanding rescue performed by a county firefighter during the past year." When the fire department confirmed a person had fallen into the well, Fire Chief Robert French requested a volunteer to attempt the descent into the well. Peluso, one of the newer members of the department, stepped forward,

 

donned self-contained breathing apparatus and under the direction of Captain Greg Tiner was secured to ropes and lowered into the well. Teller was in 2 feet of water at the bottom of the well. The air temperature was below freezing. Peluso, who had received rescue and first aid training while a member of the fire department's Explorer Post, made a cursory examination of her injuries, reassured her and fastened her to the end of a life rope. He then directed firefighters on the surface to hoist her out while he stayed at the bottom of the well to guide them. Before he was lifted out, he recovered her purse from the water. Peluso said that when he reached Teller, who remained conscious during the incident, he did not know "how bad she was injured, but I

 

figured she hurt her back and spine by the way she was positioned." He said if the water in the well had been any deeper she probably would have drowned. "She could move her arms, but she couldn't move her legs. The onlything we were worried about was getting her out fast." He gave credit to other members of the department who stayed above ground to' direct the operation. "They were the backbone of the rescue." he said. "I just had to go down there and get all the information to the officers up above," he said. Peluso graduated from Liverpool High School in June and plans to study fire science at Onondaga Community College.

 

September 16th, 1983
Herald Journal
A fire destroyed a home in the Casual Estates trailer park In Liverpool early Friday, according to Clay police.  The blaze broke out at about 1:30 a.m. at the home of Mary Worrnuth, of Doncaster Court. Said police Investigator Leonard Storto. Wormuth wasn't home at the lime, "The trailer looked to be a total loss," Storto said, adding the woman will stay with her son for the time being. Although there were no Indications the fire was suspicious, the county Arson Task Force has been called in to investigate. The fire apparently started in the bedroom area; Storto said. The Moyers Corners Fire department had the fire out by 2 p.m

 

October 1983
Garnoch Court Fire
News interview with Chief Ken Brand Jr.:
“We arrived on the scene and we had a working fire in the upper apartment over here. The upper story was fully involved. I immediately called for mutual aid companies from Liverpool and Clay. We contained it to the one apartment with a little damage to the second apartment. We knocked the fire down is where we are now.”

 

October 8th, 1983
Harvest Dinner at Station 1
The menu consisted of Ham, scalloped potatoes, glazed carrots, squash, cabbage salad, corn, applesauce and, of course, homemade pies. Carolyn Funnell was the chairperson, Joyce Bressette was in charge of the dining room, and Clara Marshall took charge of the pies (and boy were they good!) Prices for the dinners were: Adults - $4.75, $3 for children, $4 for senior citizen, children under five were free. 280 dinners were served with a profit of $622.76.

 

October 15th, 1983 
Station 2 open house
Auxiliary served 32 dozen donuts and 12 gallons of cider, in addition to “lots” of coffee and popcorn being consumed. 
New Pictures

 

November 1983 
Men’s smoker at Station 1
The auxiliary assisted with the preparation of the food for the function. 466 people were served. Lots of macaroni salad was left over. 
New Pictures

 

November 15th, 1983
Thanks, Sheriff Dillon
The Post-Standard – Editorial Page
To the Editor,
The Moyers Corners Fire Department wishes to thank Onondaga County Sheriff John Dillon for having the the department's helicopter drop in at the Moyers Corners Fire Department's Open House last month.
Few of those who attended the Open House had ever had an opportunity to see this special piece of equipment up close; even fewer realized that "Air-One" is a multi-purpose unit serving as an emergency medical transport when ground transportation is not possible. It is this type of cooperation between local fire departments and specialized county units that has made the county one of the best in New York state in providing emergency services to its residents.

 

RICHARD G. CRISP
Moyers Corners Fire Department

 

December 5th, 1983
Auxiliary Annual Christmas Banquet held at Brothers Restaurant. Donations were collected from members to help six needy families enjoy the holiday season.

 

 

 

 

 

1984

 

Chief Robert French
 First Assistant Chief: Chet Fritz
Second Assistant Chief Ken Brand Jr.
Third Assistant Chief Art Montani
Captains: 1st Captain Ken Filow, 2nd  Captain Larry Earle, 3rd Captain Dick Perkins, 4th Captain Chris Naum, 5th  Captain Ron Turiello, 6th Captain George Gobin, 7th Captain Greg Tiner, 8th  Captain Ed Kazmirski, 9th Captain John Perkins
Lieutenants: 1st Lieutenant George Race, 2nd  Lieutenant Jerry Miller, 3rd Lieutenant Dave Morgan, 4th Lieutenant Steve Mauser,  5th Lieutenant Tim Chura, 6th Lieutenant Palmer (Mike) App, 7th Lieutenant Bud Neuman, 8th Lieutenant Gary Cottrell, 9th Lieutenant Dean Leeson

 

Executive Board
 President Bob Swahn
Vice President Thomas McKearney 
Secretary Bob Michelson, Assistant Secretary Paul Wiedeman 
Treasurer Art Bump, Assistant Treasurers Mike LeFebvre, David Sparks

 

Fire Police:  Captain Bob Swahn 
 Lieutenants: Ken Brand Sr., Dick Kyle, Tom Olsweski

 

Ambulance Admins: Administrator Martha Arnold, 1st Assistant Sharon Moynihan, 2nd Assistant Sam Jones, 3rd Assistant Richard Crisp

 

Auxiliary: President Norma Guinta, Vice President Beverly Tietz, Recording Secretary Beth Sahm,  Corresponding Secretary Linda Gobin, Treasurer Rosemary Morgan, Chaplain Jo Guinta
1984 Auxiliary New Picture   1984 Charter Member Auxiliary Picture

New Apparatus: 1984 Saulsbury/Autocar Construktor 2 Delivery, Rescue 1 at Station 1. Later became Rescue 3 at Station 3 in 1989, then Became Rescue 4.  1984 Ambulance 2

 

First female firefighter joined the Department – Special Ed teachrt from North Syracuse schools Kathy McMahon

 

January 4th, 1984
Herald Journal
Elderly loner dies in blaze at Clay home
Patricia Rycraft
A Clay man whom neighbors described as an elderly loner is believed to be the victim of a blaze Tuesday afternoon in his home on Route 57 just north of Seneca Mall. The man is believed to be 68- year-old Felix Glowacki, according to Sheriff's Department spokesman Robert Burns. Because the body was badly burned, positive identification may not be made for some time, Burns said. But authorities are fairly sure it is Glowacki. Burns said he talked with Glowacki's sister Tuesday night. She and a brother had not seen him since 1971, he said. The cause of death and the fire were still under investigation this morning.

 

The burned body was discovered by Moyers Corners firefighters about 10 minutes after they arrived at the house at 8149 Oswego Road near the Casual Estates mobile home park. "There were people on the scene who said there was probably someone inside," said Moyers Corner Fire Chief Robert French. "We made a quick knockdown of (the fire) so we could do the search." After the fire, police went into house and confiscated several items for safekeeping. They included, $5,106.08 in cash and change; 13 uncashed checks from Atlantic Richfield Corp.; two .22- caliber rifles and 35 boxes of ammunition. Debris was scattered in the yard of the two-story frame house, including two shopping carts, a rusted refrigerator, wire fencing and a metal storm window frame. Two teen-agers from the nearby Casual Estates had assisted Glowacki in a yard clean-up effort last fall. That was the only time they met him, said Darwin Bartlett Jr., 17, a resident of Coton Court. Tuesday afternoon, Bartlett said he saw the smoke from the house and another friend, Darrin Hubbard, 15, of Cambridge Court in the park, saw the fire. They were going to "rush in" to try to rescue Glowacki but, instead, each went to a neighbor's house to report the fire, he said. Moyers Corners Fire Department shortly after 4:30 p m.

 

When firefighters arrived, the rear portion of the house was fully involved in flames, according to French. Rush hour traffic was rerouted off Route 57 as more than 35 firefighters from Moyers Corners Fire Department battled the blaze. The body was removed from the house at about 7:10 p.m. Bartlett said that one day in the  fall he and another friend offeredto help Glowacki clean up his yard.. "We were walking down the street and asked him if he needed    his yard cleaned up," Bartlett said. The man accepted their help and  offered them one of the cars in his driveway as payment, Bartlett said. But the two youths never went back. There were beer cans and bottles, a snowblower, tractor and a refrigerator in the yard, he said. Bartlett said he didn't know why Glowacki kept the items. "Even if you said 'hi' to him, he "It's an old man who lives by  himself," said Casual Estates resident Barbara Baublitz, who manages the Pick Quick DehMart at 8195 Oswego Road, north of the house. She had only seen Glowacki go to his mailbox, she said. "It always looks like the place is deserted. You wouldn't even know anybody lives there. "It looks like an old hermit's place," she said. Baublitz, who lives in one of the mobile homes closest to the house, said neighborhood children have never seen anyone else near the house. "I've lived here five years and I've maybe seen him four times," said another neighbor, Bethel Rusch of Coton Court.

 

Firefighters searched the house for a possible second body but found none. Moyers Corners firefighters conducted three searches of the house, and four of some portions, to be certain there was no one else minside, French said. ing to him in the driveway within the last week by one of our firefighters," French said. Papers found in the house had two names on them, he said. "You cannot afford to discount that," the fire chief said. "Every square foot has got to be searched." The body was found in the kitchen, where the blaze is believed to have started. Firefighters were unsure at first of the victim's sex, French said. The county's Fire Investigation Unit team is investigating the blaze. The cause remained undetermined Tuesday night. "They do not list it as suspicious," said French.

 

January 25, 1984
Review
Fire department saves time and money with computer
The addition of a Victor 9000 microcomputer has brought a whole new way of doing things- to the Moyers Corners Fire Department. Department President Ed Fleming says the system is saving time and money and most importantly, could save lives. Programming the system has taken countless hours of Fleming's time as well as that of other members of the committee. Ed thinks, however, that the turning point is at hand and that the information that has-been pumped in will save tax dollars in the coming years. The department's accounting system, fund drive addresses, membership lists and budget information is already available at the push of a button. Perhaps one of the most interesting aspects, says Fleming, is a system that would tell firefighters the quickest way to arrive at a particular address within the town. "Soon," he says, "we'll be able to punch in an address and have complete directions within seconds."

 

Saving lives is the business of the men and women of Moyers Corners. In the three stations, some 118 members are ready at the call of a siren. Stations 1 and 2 have waiting lists for membership while Station 3 has some openings. The first female firefighter, a special education teacher in the North Syracuse school system, joined the ranks this year. To join the fire department, one must be 18 years old, live in the district and be willing to attend a 12 week course on the Essentials of Flremanship. In addition, weekly drills are held on Thursday evenings and firemen are expected to be at as many fires as possible. For someone interested in a more scheduled activity. Fleming notes that there are spaces available on the medical rescue squad. Members are expected to man three four-hour shifts per month, during which time they will be at the station. In addition, training drills are held and course work is required. Those wishing information on membership in the fire department or on the ambulance squad should call Station 1 at 652-8511, Station 2 at 652-8421 or Station 3 at 457-0051. "We're proud of the service we give our community," says—Fleming,—who, along with Chief Bob French and Ambulance Squad Administrator Martha Arnold, heads the department, "and we hope that those willing to become a part of this fine organization will contact us soon.”

 

April 7th, 1984
Auxiliary Craft Show at Station 1. 57 tables were rented showing a profit of $1200. 800 people attended. The auxiliary donated $500 to the department.

 

April 30th, 1984
Tribune and Town Crier
Moyers Corners Fire Dept. Purchases Great, Big, Beautiful Rescue Squad Vehicle
Ken Brand and Dick Crisp were really proud, as they talked with the Tribune and Town Crier photographer about the newest addition to one of the largest fleets of volunteer fire department equipment in Central New York. Ken, second assistant chief, and Dick, publicity committee chairman were talking about the Moyers Corners department’s new giant rescue squad van truck 32 feet long. It holds up to a dozen firemen, depending on the emergency situation.

 

Dick explained it this way: “This unit rolls on all house or structural fires, or on an auto accident involving extrication of people from the vehicle.” The big new rescue van, was purchased for about $200,000, including equipment (and there’s plenty of that). It will act as a command, utility, first aid and overall rescue center, in case of major accidents or natural disasters (remember last years tornado??) Two sizeable electrical generators, one on each side of the vehicle, provide power for floodlights – 26 of them in all. Several are mounted on the front and along the top; 16 are stored inside and are portable. The new van has several two-way radio sets and a 50-channel scanner, plus five first-aid kits and a collection of other first-aid equipment.

 

Portable oxygen tanks are combined with a built-in oxygen supply system. More gusty items on the fire department van include ‘Jaws of Life’ (for removing passengers trapped in car wrecks, quickly and hopefully as painlessly as possible); super-powerful cutters used to slice up large metal, wood or other material, for achieving quicker access for removal of victims inside autos and trucks. Another handy device is a front-mounted winch, which can pull objects weighing up to 20,000 pounts. Moyers Corners firefighters ride inside the vehicle.

 

The new fan is air conditioned. The manufacturer of the truck portion of the vehicle is the Autocar Corp., with a custom Salisbury body. Based on the type of emergencies encountered by the Moyers Corners department in the course of the year, Ken and Dick estimated that the new vehicle is well worth its cost, when compared with the saving of human life and reduction of pain and suffering now made even more possible with its acquisition.

 

May 1, 1984
They’ll have no truck with this bridge
Firefighters must get out and walk to reach Horseshoe Island
Herald Journal
If your house is burning down on Horseshoe Island, you’d better hope the local firefighters are in good shape for jogging. And it would be nice t o know there was plenty of water in your hydrants, too, because when the fire truck arrives its water tank will be empty. This all comes about because the only way to get to the island  in Clay is across the Horseshoe Island Road Bridge, which can’t take much more than the weight of two or three cars. The state says eight tons is the limit. With a full complement of firefighters and 1000 gallon water tank sloshing to the brim, even the lightest truck belonging to the Moyers Corners Fire Department is far too heavy for the bridge. Officials say the only way they can get the truck to a fire is to pump out the water and tell all the firefighters to get out and hoof it across the bridge. The truck would be driven across separately, and once across the bridge firefighters would climb back on. With the truck empty of water, the only way firefighters could spray water on a fire would be attach their hosed to hydrants. With their gear, firefighters can weigh 200 pounds each, and 1000 gallons of water weights more than two tons.

 

And that’s not the only problem facing residents of the 160 homes on the island. Until something is done to make the bridge stronger, some of them won’t get propane and heating oil. Agway Petroleum Corp says it is no longer sending its propane gas and home heating oil delivery trucks to customers on the island. The Phoenix School District is affected, as well. It has changed the bus route for the area so there are fewer students on boards its 7 ½ ton bus when it crosses the bridge. The bridge has been linking the island with the mainland for more than 70 years. The area was once a peninsula on the Oneida River, and turned into an island when the barge canal was put through.

 

Concern over the strength of the bridge came to light recently when an Agway driver noticed a sign at the one-lane bridge warning of the weight limit. The state says the sign’s been there for some time. Agway decided its delivery truck was too heavy, and some of Horseshoe Island residents started collecting signatures in an attempt to petition the state to replace the bridge. On Monday, a state official said it will be two months before engineers finish checking the strength of the span. One way wot check the bridge is to give it the same kind of inspection that a car dealer gives a trade in – by inspecting it for rust and obvious damage. That’s what was done Monday, according to State DOT regional director Richard Simberg. Simberg said the bridge would have been checked this year anyway. Giving it an inspection now “was a matter of just shifting schedules somewhat,” he said.

 

May 14th, 1984
Auxiliary Annual Installation Banquet held at Jack’s Reef.

 

May 20th, 1984
Mutual Aid to Clay – Ver Plank road structure fire

 

June 1984
Fire at Beacon Mills Silo
Jim Kenyon news interview with Assistant Chief Art Montani:
“Right now we’re emptying the silo out. We’ve wet it down from the top and bottom to remove any chance of dust. We’re trying to remove all the grain so we can be sure we’ve gotten to the seat of the fire and removed any burning material from the silo. With the wetting techniques we’re using we feel like we’ve minimized any chance of it exploding. There is always a danger of exploding, but we feel we’ve minimized it. We have no indication at this time what caused it, it could have been any of the machinery used to move the grain or any number of things. The only real way to extinguish the fire is to remove the grain from the silo.Our problem right now is we had to modify their system of removing the grain so we could remove it directly outside the building which took quite awhile to set up. The company has been excellent with cooperating with us. The maintenance staff has worked with us right from the beginning.”

 

June 28th – July 1st, 1984
Field Days
New Pictures

 

July 5th, 1984
Herald Journal
They’re just perfect for fun – and funds
By Tom Dial
Just as sure as the weather gets warm arid fireworks celebrate the Fourth, of July, summer in New York generates Firemen's Field Days. Across the state, the sound of cow bells, sirens and whirling rides are familiar, as the hordes of volunteer firemen set out to raise - funds for their serious work through the pleasure of play.  "We raise about $25,000 a year with our field days," says Ken Brand, assistant chief and chairman of the Field Days for the Moyers Corner Volunteer Fire Department. "It's difficult to say for sure just how many people we draw, but we estimate 50,000 to 75,000 on the weekend" His Field Days were staged last weekend, with Hawkins Amusements of Rome pro providing the three dozen rides and games. The firemen also stage legal gambling games, such as Big Six, Over and Under, and Beat the Dealer. "We usually hold the Field Days on the Fourth, but it was in the middle of the week this year and we couldn't do it. It turned out fine, though," says Brand "The money we raise during Field Days goes for furniture for our firehouse, extras such as soft drinks and the like for our members, and miscellaneous things like that.

 

All the equipment and fire trucks, and the funds for running the department come from the town. "So raising money is just one function of our Field Days. It's also a social function that brings the department just a little closer to the community, and it's entertainment. Just good fun for the whole family. "We have about 200 members, and most of them spend some time working during the Field Days. We also have a lot of auxiliary members who work for us. "It's like a little State Fair-around here, and people really love it." Although Moyers Corners' Field Days were open last Thursday and Friday from 6 p.m. to midnight, it was Saturday and Sunday that drew the huge crowds, primarily because of special events like the Saturday afternoon parade and Sunday fireworks display. The parade had people of all ages lined up along Route 57 for miles. Military groups used the occasion to make their presence known. The Baldwinsville Community Band played and marched And radio stations urged onlookers to tune in their numbers, while automobile dealers furnished cars for officials to ride in.

 

August 1984
Station 3 members at Hydroplane Races 

 

August 16th, 1984
Child Drowns in Cicero quarry pond
By Erik Kriss
Herald-Journal
Divers felt their way through dark, murky water in a Cicero stone quarry pond before coming upon the body of an eight-year- old Syracuse boy who drowned Wednesday afternoon. Attempts were made to revive John Chinn. of 562 Oakwood Ave., but the efforts were to no avail. According to poJicc and fire officials, Chinn was fishing with two friends at the pond, located south of Route 31 just east of the western intersection of  Lakeshore Road. Between 2:45 and 3 p.m., Chinn, against the advice of his friends, decided to go swimming. He apparently became tangled in the heavy weeds of the pond. One of the friends. David Newport of 7926 Rinaldo Blvd. W.. Bridgeport, made a vain attempt to save Chinn. Newport and Jeff Evans of 7922 Rinaldo Blvd. W. then called police. Officials said Chinn and thre6 sisters were staying with the Evans family. Authorities summoned divers to search for Chinn. "It scared the hell out of me when I found him," said diver John Schoibol, an East Syracuse firefighter who groped through the eight- to 10-foot deep waters for 20 minutes.' "I thought it was my buddy Steve Mauser, a diver from the Moyers Corners Fire Department) when I found him because I clamped on to his shoulder, but he didn't resist. That's when I Itncw I found him." "You couldn't see your hand in front of your face," Scheibel said. So the divemaster submerged a cement block with 50 feet of rope tied to it about 30 feet from shorq, the spot where Chinn's friends last remcm- .bered seeing him. 'Scheibel and three other divers held the rope and probed in a circle around the block. With the weeds and silt, "It was similar to going through a cornfield in the middle of the night," Scheibel said. The pond was 200 or 300 feet by 300 or 400, estimated Richard Beach, assistant county fire coordinator. Emergency medical technicians from North Area Volunteer Ambulance Corps attempted to revive Chinn, before his body was taken by helecopter to Upstate Medical Center, said Onondaga County Sheriff's Department spokesman Bob Burns.Neither the Evans nor the Newpert family could be contacted, and authorities didn't know why Chinn was in Cicero. Beach said Newport "was fortunate to get out" after attempting to save Chinn. "It was panic inducement. I'm sure that's what  happened." Beach said the water was approximately 55 degrees. "Because of the cold water, and the reflex built into people in cold water, we have to treat anyone we find as though there is a potential for continued life," Beach said, explaining the attempts to revive Chinn. The sheriff's department and the Bridgeport

 

Fire Department were assisted by eight to 10 other fire companies, said Beach. Scheibel and Mauser were1 helped by two divers from the Brewerton Fire Department. Sheriff's department, Onondaga County Divers Association and other divers stood by.

 

September 19th, 1984
The Messenger
By Richard Crisp
To the Editor:

 

For the past eight years  I have urged "Total Community Support" for the Moyers Corners Ambulance Fund Drive, recognizing its great importance in the to the Town Wide Public Safety Program. Over thepast twelve months, as active member of the Moyers Corners Medical Rescue Squad, I have grown to realize that the ambulance service is much more than just a "Community Service" but a very "Personal Service" to those who have had' to call on the Moyers Corners Fire Department for assistance Their words of appreciation, gratitude and friendship continue long 'after the illness has subsided or the wound healed. When you receive your 1984 Fund Drive Appeal, I urge you consider this not just another Community Appeal, but a very Personal Appeal - your personal support insuring continued prompt and professional medical care, should you,  a neighbor, or friend fall victim to a medical emergency.

 

September 21st, 1984
Herald Journal
Smoking in bed believed cause of crippled woman’s death
Patricia Rycraft
Carol Bown, a 38-year-old victim of a crippling disease, chose last month to leave Van Duyn Home and Hospital to live with her son. Thursday, Brown, who was confined to a wheelchair, was killed in bed when fire brok out in her son’s apartment on Candlelight Lane in Clay.  Bowen, who had multiple sclerosis, was alone in the basement apartment at the time of the 9:52am fire. She was apparently smoking in bed, said Clay Police Investigator Leonard Storto. Following an autopsy Thursday, the Onondaga County Medical Examiner’s preliminary findings are that she died of smoke inhalation. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, Storto o said. “There’s enough evidence to determine it was an accidental fire.” The fire was confined to the bed in the living room and other articles in the room, said Art Montani, assistant chief of the Moyers Corners Fire Department. Bowen’s son, David, and his girlfriend who also lives there, were both working at the time of the fire. A home health aide from Onondaga County health department woud visit each day.

 

September 21st, 1984
Herald Journal – Metro Section
By Patricia Rycraft
Crippled fire victim wanted a life outside the nursing home.  Carol Bown, a 38-year-old victim of a crippling disease, chose to leave Van Duyn home  and Hospital to live with her son. Thursday, Bowen, who was confined to a wheelchair, was killed in bed when f i r e broke out in her son’s apartment on Candlelight land  in Clay. Bowen, who had multiple sclerosis, was aone in the basement apartment at the time of the 9:52 a.m. fire.She was apparently smoking in bed said Clay Police Investigator Leonard Storto. The cause of the fire is still under  investigation. Storto said. "There's enough evidence to determine it was an accidental fire." Following an autopsy Thursday, the Onondag;1 County Medical Examiner's preliniinary findings are that she died of smoke inhalation. Storto said. The fire was confined to the hcd m the living room and other articles in the room, said Art Montani. assistant chief of t h e ,Moyers Corners Fire Department.Bowen's son. David Monica .Jr.. and his girlfriend, who also lives in the apartment, were both working at the time of the fire. Home health aides and a nurse would visit Mowcn every day. Said Terry Stone, director of the county health department's Home Care Services. liowen had heen a patient at the county's Van Duyn I lome and Hospital on Onoudaga Hill for five and j half months before leaving m August. Van Dnyn personnel wanted liowen to remain in the nursing home, said Jackie Ross, a social worker at Van Duyn. "She hated the idea of being in an institution." said Ross, who was Howen's caseworker. "We tried very hard to get her to stay here. It was hard for people to convince her to stay here ... to get the attention she needed. "She was determined to gel out of an institution." Ross said. Howen's disease was diagnosed five years ago. Multiple sclerosis is an incurable disease of the nervous system. 'She had lost strength in her legs and arms and "didn't have much control over movement." Ross said. Her vision had also worsened, a symptom of MS. Mowen was depressed by the loss of her mobility and independence, said Barbara Stone. Monica's girlfriend. "She took it very hard." Said Storic. "She lost a lot of her will and ambition." I loss agreed that Bowen suffered from depression.

 

November 3rd, 1984 
Harvest Dinner at Station 1
Took in $240 on the raffle of a cabbage patch doll. Sue Davison chaired the event. She reported that 240 people were served with a profit of $636.47. Help was scarce!
New pictures

December 1985
Alice Haney Birthday Celebration at Station 1. The auxiliary presented Alice with a comforter to celebrate her 75th birthday. 
Picture of her with her daughters

 

December 3rd, 1984
Annual Auxiliary Christmas Banquet. Donations were received for a needy family. Bev Tietz celebrated 25 years as an auxiliary member. 
New picture of Bev.

 

December 14th, 1984
Herald-Journal
Clay garage fire ruins cars, snowmobiles
Arlington Mall Apt. Fire (article/pics)
Fire in a large garage at a Clay apartment complex destroyed three cars and some snowmobiles, motorcycles and furniture today, said Bob French, Chief of the Moyers Corners fire department. No one was hurt in the fire at Arlington Mall apartments on Arlington circle, just southeast of the Route 57/John Glenn Boulevard intersection. Flames from the fire, reported at 4:53 a.m., were visible around the area. Firefighters brought the blaze under control about 6 a.m. and returned to their stations at 8:30 a.m, French said. He said arson is suspected because of the way the fire started and spread. Investigators were at the scene. The apartments were at least 200 yards away and were not threatened, French said.

 

December 15th, 1984
House fire
pictures

 

1985

 

Chief Robert French
 First Assistant Chief: Chet Fritz
Second Assistant Chief Ken Brand Jr.
Third Assistant Chief Steve Wisely
Captains: 1st Captain Ken Filow, 2nd  Captain Chris Naum, 3rd Captain Ron Turiello, 4th Captain Greg Tiner, 5th  Captain John Perkins, 6th Captain Tim Chura, 7th Captain Bud Neuman, 8th  Captain Steve Mauser, 9th Captain George Gobin
|Lieutenants: 1st Lieutenant George Race, 2nd  Lieutenant Dave Morgan, 3rd Lieutenant Dave Fleming, 4th Lieutenant Mike Chura,  5th Lieutenant Palmer App, 6th Lieutenant Dean Leeson, 7th Lieutenant Greg Shaffer, 8th Lieutenant Mark Goettel, 9th Lieutenant Frank Houde

 

Executive Board
 President Bob Swahn
Vice President Thomas McKearney 
Secretary Bob Michelson, Assistant Secretary Ed Wisnowski 
Treasurer William Arnold, Assistant Treasurers Mike LeFebvre, Kathy McMahon

 

Fire Police:  Captain Bob Swahn 
 Lieutenants: Ken Brand Sr., Dick Kyle, Tom Olsweski

 

Ambulance Admins: Administrator Martha Arnold, 1st Assistant Sharon Moynihan, 2nd Assistant Mike Wolff, 3rd Assistant Mary Hussain

 

Auxiliary: President Norma Guinta, Vice President Beverly Tietz, Recording Secretary Beth Sahm,  Corresponding Secretary Linda Gobin, Treasurer Rosemary Morgan, Chaplain Jo Guinta

 

Scholarship Winners: Kristine Greene, Donna Davison
1985 Explorer Post – Pictures

 

New Apparatus: 1985 Truck 2 Rehabilitation by Young 

 

January 3rd, 1985
Herald Journal
Volunteers appeal for help..continued
One of the major reasons for the drop in availability of daytime firefighting and medical volunteers is that many people who either weren't employed a few years ago or were laid off during the recession are working now, officials said. "We found when we had the big layoffs at local companies we had a lot more people around the station and doing more things," said Michael Grille, chief of the North Syracuse Volunteer Fire Department. About five years ago, the ranks of the North Syracuse department numbered about 80. Today, there are 60 members. "Our big problem is that women have gone back to work to support families or they have children (at home)," said Martha Arnold, administrator of the Moyers Corners Fire Department Medical Rescue Squad. When the Moyers Corners squad and some other ambulance services don't have a crew available at some time during the day to be on duty at the station or corps room, they allow volunteers living nearby to respond to calls from home. If a particular ambulance service can't respond to a life-threatening emergency within four minutes, county Fire Control dispatches another. Waters said. The director of the county's Emergency Medical Services Bureau, M. Betty Christen, said she knows of no deaths that can be blamed on a longer response time caused by a shortage of volunteers.

 

January 7th, 1985 Pinecrest Manor Fire
Candle Started Clay Fire
A fire that left 20 Clay residents homeless and trapped four people wo were rescue by fire ladders Saturday night was caused by an overturned candle, firefighters said Sunday. Moyers Corners Fire Chief Robert French said a candle in a bedroom tipped over onto somewicker furniture. “It took off from there,” French said. The fire started about 9 p.m. Saturday in a bedroom in an apartment shared by two young women at Pinecrest Manor on Cedar Post Road. French said he could not recall the name of the woman whose candle started the fire. The woman’s roommate, Lyne Gachowski, 23, was at the movie at the time of the fire. French estimated that about 15 people were home at the start of the fire which gutted two apartments and caused extensive damage to 10 others. Although firefighters rescued 4 persons who were trapped on balconies by thick smoke, the other residents escaped after smoke detectors were automatically activated. “The smoke detectors saved the day,” French said. “We had person after person tell us that was what alerted them. Had these people not had advanced warning, it might’ve been a different story.”

 

News interview with Chief Robert French:
“When I arrived we had heavy smoke, heavy smoke in the hallways, we were rescuing people off balconies. We’ve got the fire knocked down about now, but there is still a lot of overhaul left to do.”

 

January 9th, 1985
Herald Journal
Patricia rycraft
Horseshoe Island bridge decision immenent
State transportation officials plan to decide in about a month whether the Horseshoe Island Road bridge in the town of Clay will be rehabilitated or replaced. Studies of both options are expected to be completed near the end of January, said Richard Simberg, regional director for the state Department of Transportation. DOT announced in late November it would either rehabilitate or replace the bridge, which provides the only access to the island. The island was created when the state's Barge Canal was built. The island is surrounded by the canal and the Oneida River. Island residents have been pushing for work on the bridge since April, when Agway Petroleum stopped sending its large home fuel trucks over it because the trucks exceeded the bridge's eight-ton weight limit. A bridge rehabilitation project would begin in the winter of 1986-87 with a projected completion date of fall 1987, Simberg said in a letter to Assemblyman Michael J. Bragman, D-Cicero. The cost of renovation is estimated at between $250,000 and $300,000. A project to replace the bridge probably would begin in 1987 and be completed in 1988 or 1999, Simberg said in the letter. The estimated cost of a new bridge is about $1.5 million. The town has no choice. "You can't isolate those people, so the town is continuing to provide absolutely necessary services," DiDomenico said. "On the one hand the state is saying it's illegal but they're not solving their problem. "The town and town residents are left in an impossible situation." DiDomenico said the state is responsible for problems associated with the bridge because the state built the barge canal. Enforcement of the bridge's weight limit is the responsibility of police agencies, Simberg said. The town supervisor said the town will attempt to lighten loads of salt and sand taken over the bridge, but the equipment will still weigh more than the posted weight limit. Island residents have said that there have been long periods of time that the signs with the bridge's weight limit have been missing, DiDomenico said. "There's a history of excessive loads going over that bridge when the bridge wasn't posted," he said. DiDomenico has proposed buying two four-wheel drive trucks equipped with a snow plowing blades and sanding and salting equipment to use on the island. But he wants the state to pay the estimated $40,000 cost for that special equipment. The town recently authorized the Moyers Corners Fire Department to buy an additional mini pumper at a cost of $60,000 to provide protection on the island because the department's large equipment exceeds the weight limit. DiDomenico wants the state to pay for that apparatus as well. 

 

January 30, 1985
The Messenger –– Moyers department buys special truck for Horseshoe
A mini-pumper to serve more safely the residents of Horseshoe Island is the newest purchase at the Moyers Corners Fire Department. The all volunteer group, number some 125 firematic members and another 50 or so in the ambulance squad, is proud of its service to the community. Problems with weight limitations on the bridge leading to Horseshoe Island forced the company to take a good look at the situation. If one of the regular trucks were to cross the bridge, there might be a collapse, property and life could be endangered. “We feel good about the Clay Town Board’s decision to purchase the mini-pumper,” says MCFD President Bob Swahn. He is joined in administrative duties by a corps of officers at various levels, including Fire Chief

 

Bob French and Ambulance Administrator Martha Arnold.

 

The fire department portion of the budget, some half million dollars each year, comes in the form 6f taxes. All monies for the ambulance squad are raised through contributions. Funds from activities such as smokers and field days are used to support a variety of community activities, including Little League and softball teams. Members are required to attend drills and classes designed to keep them ready for any emergency. Bob is especially proud of the work done by the fire department auxiliary and its president Norma Guinta. They arrive on the scene of major fires with foot and coffee, ready to assist in any way they can. The Moyers Corners Fire Department is open to anyone over the age of 18 who is out of high school. For information, call 652-8511

 

February 4th, 1985
Herald Journal
Two children hurt as sled hits car
Two 6-year-old children were seriously injured Sunday when the sled they were on slid into a passing car, town of Clay police said. Jacqueline Smith of 8292 Larkspur Drive, Clay, was in critical condition at State University Hospital today, said a hospital spokeswoman. Joseph Jenners of 12 Kumquat Lane, Liverpool, was listed in serious condition at the hospital, the spokeswoman said. Police said he suffered head injuries. Police said the two were sledding in the driveway of the Smith house when the sled entered the road about 1:19 p.m. A car driven by Franklin L. Page, 34, of 8270 Larkspur Drive was passing by at about 20 mph at the time, police said. Police said Page heard a thud under the car, stopped and saw the boy in the road and the girl under the car. Police said both children were unconscious. Page was not charged. Both children were taken to the hospital by Moyers Corners Fire Department ambulances.

 

February 12th, 1985
Horseshoe Island bridge will be rebuilt, but it will take three years
Herald Journal
By Jonathan D. Salant
Albany Bureau
ALBANY — Help is on the way for the 160 families of Horseshoe Island in the town of Clay, but it will take three years to get there. State Transportation Commissioner James Larocca Monday said the state would rehabilitate the 74- year-old Horseshoe Island Bridge, a process expected to take three years. Rehabilitating the bridge would cost one-fifth as much and be twice as fast as building a new structure, LaRocca said. By using an innovative design, state transportation officials said they would be able to do the work with only short, scattered bridge planning.  Vehicles weighing more than eight tons are prohibited from using the bridge. That means the Moyers Corners Fire Department, which provides fire protection to the island's residents, can't use a regular 17-ton fire pumper or a 30- to 34-ton hook-and-ladder firetruck. When the work is completed, the bridge will be able to handle traffic weighing the state maximum of 40 tons. With two years needed to draw plans and one year for actual construction, the project is expected to be completed in 1988. The cost is estimated at $300,000 to $400,000. While construction is going on, the bridge will not have to be closed to traffic except for one- to two-hour periods on about 20 separate days during the one-year construction period, transportation officials said.

 

February 27th, 1985
Herald Journal
Trailer burns
A Moyers Corners firefighter suffered minor injuries Tuesday night as a grease fire destroyed a 60-foot mobile home in Casual Estates in the town of Clay, fire officials said. The fire, at 1513 Cheshire Court, started at 5 p.m. The owner, Silvia Sapucilli, and her daughter were home at the time, according to the Moyers Corners Fire Department. The daughter, 15-year-old Tammy Shurley, was cooking hamburgers when she spilled grease on the stove, fire officials said. She made a futile effort to put out the fire herself, then woke her sleeping mother, according to firefighters. Both women left through a back door. Neither was hurt. Firefighter Kevin Sahm suffered minor burns to the ears while fighting the blaze, officials said. Phoenix and Liverpool departments assisted.

 

April 1985 Balcony Collapse 

 

May 13th, 1985
Annual Auxiliary Installation Banquet at Beef Steak Mining Company in Cicero. Natalie Hunter celebrated 25 years as a member. 
New picture

 

June 25th, 1985
Herald Journal
Clay woman hurt in Morgan Road crash
Jeff Light
A town of Clay woman was critically injured Monday in a car crash at the entrance to her apartment complex. Five other people, including two small children and a 17-year-old driver, were hurt in the two-car crash at 8:45 a.m. at Morgan Road and Piccadilly Square outside the Westminster Place apartment complex, Clay police said. Diane Holmberg, 33, of Westminster Place, was reported in critical condition today at State University Hospital, where she was flown by a state police helicopter after the accident. Holmberg's children, Kenneth, 2, and

 

Breanna, 5, were treated for minor injuries and released. The driver of the second car, Lisa Hubeny, 17, of 14 Indian Orchard Lane, Clay, suffered cuts to the face and head, said Clay Police Detective Jack Hickock. Her condition was being evaluated at the hospital. Hickok said two of Hubeny's passengers, David J. Hubeny, 18, and Jeff Lannier, 15, complained of back and leg pain but did not appear to be seriously injured. The accident occurred when Holmberg pulled out of the apartment complex and into the path of Hubeny's car, which was southbound on Morgan Road, Hickok said. "She (Holmberg) was coming out of the complex and stopped at the stop sign to make a left turn," Hickock said, "She looked south for on-coming traffic but apparently did not look to the north." The impact of the collision drove Holmberg's car across the four-lane road and into a wooded area off the north  shoulder. Hickok said emergency workers from the Moyers Corners Fire Department took an hour to cut the roof off the car and free Holmberg. Hickok said the drivers and passengers of both cars were wearing seat belts or Harnesses as required by law. The 2-year-old child was in a baby seat.

 

Note: Dave Hubeny is an honorary member and past lieutenant of the Moyers Corners Fire Department. 

 

July 1985
Moyers Corners Fire Department and Auxiliary scholarship
In the spring, the first scholarship committee was formed by the auxiliary to benefit a son or daughter of a fireman, auxiliary, or squad member as outlined by the guidelines drawn up. These scholarships of $1000 ($500 from the fire department and $500 from the auxiliary) each were awarded to Donna Davison, daughter of Bob and Sue Davison, and Kristine Green, daughter of Jerry and Joan Green. 
New Pictures

 

July 1st, 1985 
Field Days
Grill – Joanne Donahue, Doris Jackson, Sue Romanick
Counter – Joyce Bressette, Beth Sahm
French Fries – Sue Davison, Ethel Viel
Pizza – Yvonne Kenyon, Debbie Neuman, Norma Guinta, Cindy Houde ($3464.62 profit)
Kitchen – Bev Tietz, Rosi Morgan
Chicken Booth – Martha Arnold
Candy and popcorn showed a $1554.05 profit. 12 outsiders helped out during the field days. New pictures

 

September 7th, 1985
Fashion Show held at Station 1
Chaired by Norma Guinta. She said it wasn’t very successful.

 

September 11th, 1985
Letter to Herald Journal
This has been a very special year for the Moyers Corners Fire Department Medical Rescue Squad Special as this was the first time within a 12-month period that there was a need to replace two advanced life support ambulances, each costing more than many homes within the town of Clay Special too as this was the first time Onondaga County Emergency Medical Service offered to the volunteer fire departments the advanced level of training needed to achieve the des ignation of "paramedic," greatly enhancing the quality and cost t>f medical care in the field But it has been more than just a special year for the department, it has also been a very costly year making the 1985 annual fund drive (goal of $80,000) both very special and so critical

 

Richard Crisp

 

September 13th, 1985
The Post-Standard – Neighbors North
Moyers Fire Department needs public support

 

Letter to the Editor:

 

Having been involved in various aspects of public safety within the town of Clay for the past 10 years. I am often asked this question: Isn't it depressing to witness the many and varied misfortunes people face — especially when it is a serious accident or illness? My reply is naturally "yes," which often leads to a second question: How do you handle it? The answer here is simple: I am just grateful that I have had the necessary medical training to be in that position of being able to help others." Each year as the Moyers Corners Fund Drive begins, those who have physically experienced the benefits of the service extend their appreciation and support. But for some who have not personally experienced the need for this type of prehospital care, the impact of the Moyers Corners Fund Drive appeal naturally is not as great I would urge all residents, those who have used, and those who have been more fortunate, to consider their donation to Moyers Corners Fire Department as an "insurance policy" which will pay high dividends should you fall victim to a medical emergency. The members of the Moyers Corners Fire Department Medical Rescue squad will be most grateful for your support just as they are grateful that they are in a position to help you when ever needed.

 

- Richard G. Crisp EMT
Chairman
Town of Clay Public Safely Committee

 

October 13th, 1985 Open House Ad 

 

October 15th, 1985
Open House – Station 2
“Come Visit Us Before We Visit You”
Ad picture 

 

October 26th, 1985
Auxiliary Harvest Dinner at Station 1. 
Served 380 dinners with a $1191.62 profit. Carolyn Funnel was chairperson and Rosi Morgan acted as hostess. There was a raffle for a Marriot weekend. 
New pictures

 

October 29th  1985 – Pesticide at LHS
Herald Journal
Liverpool High School students had a day off again today as testing continued for traces of a herbicide that has contaminated the building since Friday. The building remained closed, keeping 2,800 students out of school, because work crews found traces of the herbicide, pentachlorophenol, in the school's business education and house floors. An inspector from the state Department of Environmental Conservation was also at the high school Monday checking that all regulations were followed when the weed killer was sprayed. The department will try to determine "what was sprayed, how it was sprayed, and who sprayed it," said Richard Brickwedde, regional attorney for the department. Fumes from the herbicide sprayed in the courtyard at the Wetzel Road building were drawn into the school Friday through the ventilation system. Twenty-five people were treated at the scene and nine/were taken to hospitals after complaining of nausea, light headedness and other symptoms. School officials have said the weed killer, Certifen, was sprayed by maintenance department personnel Friday. The fumes were carried by the wind into the ventilation system. Brickwedde said the workers were using a non-restricted pesticide, which can be purchased by the public for at-home use. But personnel must be certified or working under the supervision of a certified pesticide applicator when using the weed killer at the school owned buildings, he said. "We have a regulatory interest in what went on. We want to know if it was done properly by properly trained people or under the supervision of properly trained people," Brickwedde said. Brickwedde said today he did not yet have the result of the inspector's probe. Liverpool School Superintendent Jerome Melvin said the school's maintenance supervisor is a certified applicator. Melvin said he did not believe the supervisor was in the courtyard when the other workers were spraying. Melvin said he decided to close the school again today when a swab test showed traces of the pesticide on surfaces in the business education and house floors. "It became apparent that when those two areas were cleaned, a detergent was not used, just hot water," Melvin said. The areas were cleaned again Monday and today and were retested. Melvin said a decision on when to re-open the building would be made when the test results are available. He said the missed time for students would probably be treated as snow days and not be made up.

 

December 2nd, 1985
Auxiliary Christmas Banquet at the Bonanza Restaurant, Liverpool. “We ate good and had a good time.” Donations were received to help a need family. 

 

1986

 

Chief Chet Fritz
 First Assistant Chief: Ken Brand Jr.
Second Assistant Chief Steve Wisely
Third Assistant Chief George Race
Captains: 1st Captain Greg Tiner, 2nd  Captain Fred Bressette, 3rd Captain Bud Neuman, 4th Captain Ron Turiello, 5th   Captain John Perkins, 6th Captain Dave Fleming, 7th Captain Tim Chura, 8th  Captain Mike Chura, 9th Captain Dave Morgan
Lieutenants: 1st Lieutenant Greg SHaffer, 2nd  Lieutenant Steve Mauser, 3rd Lieutenant Frank Houde, 4th Lieutenant Ron Jennings,  5th Lieutenant Don Mace, 6th Lieutenant George Gobin, 7th Lieutenant Dean Leeson, 8th Lieutenant Dan Bartholf, 9th Lieutenant Mike App

 

Executive Board
 President Bob Swahn
Vice President Tom Taranto 
Secretary Bob Michelson, Assistant Secretary Ed Wisnowski 
Treasurer Mike LeFebvre, Assistant Treasurers Kathy McMahon, Greg Dressel

 

Fire Police:  Captain Bob Swahn 
 Lieutenants: Ken Brand Sr., Dick Kyle, Tom Olsweski

 

Ambulance Admins: Administrator Linda Foster, 1st Assistant Bonnie Caza, 2nd Assistant Barbara Chura, 3rd Assistant Michelle Betts

 

Auxiliary: President Rosemary Morgan, Vice President Debbie Neuman, Recording Secretary Cindy Houde,  Corresponding Secretary Linda Gobin, Treasurer Sue Davison, Chaplain Carolyn Funnel Woods

 

Scholarship Winners: Michelle Brand, Shawn Crispin

 

Volunteers who are willing to make a commitment to participate in training and serve in the Movers' Corners Fire Department or Medical Rescue Squad will find some openings says MCFD President Bob Swahn "No training is required initially as long as the volunteer is willing to participate in training programs All we ask for is a commitment,” he says.

 

The department responded to over 1800 calls and medical emergencies in 1985. The all volunteer group numbering some 125

 

March 14th , 1986
Herald Journal
McIntosh Road Fire
If Susan Ohlsen was ever superstitious about her address, she has been cruelly provided with good reason. Her split level, single family home at 13 McIntosh Street, Liverpool, was severely damaged by fire Sunday afternoon. Ohlsen and 4 year-old Heather Pagano of Village Green, Van Buren, whom she was babysitting, both had their hair singed, said Moyers Corners Assistant Fire Chief Chester Fritz. A cat, dog, bird and goldfish were killed in the fire. Ohlsen and her own children now will have to live elsewhere. The fire began while no one was home, but fire investigators have yet to determine its cause, Fritz said. He said the blaze started in a first floor family room. “Very, very extensive damage,” Fritz said. “It’s not going to be livable for the immediate future.” Fritz said Ohlsen and Pagano had just come home when she smelled smoke on the second floor. “She got the baby out and she got out,” the chief said. Firefighters were greeted by heavy flames an the first and second floor, creeping up to the attic. Fritz said firefighters battled the blaze for 15 to 20 minutes before they were able to get it under control . Onondaga County fire investigation unit and the Town of Clay police are investigating, Fritz said.

 

News Interview with Assistant Chief Chet Fritz:
“When I pulled up on the scene the fire was coming out of the game room window extending to the second floor. I made sure everybody was out of the house. We operated with two inch and three quarter lines and a two and a half inch line inside, opened the roof up, got the fire going straight up and knocked it down. I’d say it was probably an excellent save, tremendous amount of damage, but for what we had when we showed up, I’ve got no complaints. The guys really did a job. I talked very briefly the first ten seconds I got here with the woman of the house to make sure that everybody is out of the house.  We gave it a primary and secondary search and confirmed that everybody was out of the house. That’s about all I’ve had time for at this time.”

 

April 1986 
Scholarship Awards
Shawn Crispin and Shelly Brand were the recipients. Shelley is the daughter of Phil and Barbara Brand. The each receive $1000 to help defray college expenses. 
New Pictures

 

May 30th, 1986
 Mcfd Loses One of Their Own in MVC  May 30, 1986 FF Mike Wolff Death MVC Liverpool Bypass
pictures

Medical Rescue Squad Promotional Video
Made by Syracuse University
Just like a good neighbor..the Moyer’s Corners Medical Rescue Squad
Linda Foster, Ambulance Administrator: “Welcome to the Moyers Corners Medical Rescue Squad Ambulance. It’s a part of the Moyers Corners Fire Department. The people who ride on this ambulance are all volunteers. The have their own paid jobs, and in their spare time, they take additional training and they go out in the community to help people that are sick and injured. We are in desperate need of extra help, particularly in daytimes. The volunteer service all over has a chronic daytime shortage. We would like to know if you would like to help.”

 

Jim Michel, EMT: “In the beginning, ambulances were basically station wagons/hearses. It was a scoop and run procedure. At the present time, it has worked up to an advanced science. An ambulance is an extension of the hospital, of the emergency room. There is almost no procedure in the emergency room that cannot be done on the ambulance with properly trained personnel. “

 

Mike Powers, EMT: “Its not a game, you know. It’s serious and real life. It would be great if we had enough members to cover everywhere. But it’s impossible right now. I’m not saying its for everybody because it’s not. Not everybody could deal with what we have to deal with.”

 

Linda Foster: “You have to give a great deal of yourself in this business. And it takes that ability inside to be unselfish and to care about other people. It’s not an easy job, but it’s a necessary job.”

Jim Michel: “I originally started out as a firefighter, but went into the ambulance service after seeing what they needed. It gives me a lot of self-satisfication to help people on a call. You never know what you are going to get when you get there. It could be anything from hurt to death.”

Mike LeFebvre: “You work with people for so long you develop a system on the ambulance so you don’t have to talk on a call. It’s communication. You know what everybody is going to do. We know how each and other work, what’s coming up next…it’s great.”

Linda Foster: “Since the medic program came into being, more people survive. They survive heart attacks, they survive trauma. Corp ambulance service used to be called ‘scoop and run’ and that is exactly what it was. The people got there, the rescuers got there, they got the patient on the stretcher and got to the hospital as fast as they can. Modern technology has changed that. Now we stabilize the patient in the field.”

Jim Michel: “Basically I think it’s a need to help, to share. If you have ever stood on an emergency, or car accident and wondered if you could do something, with a little bit of proper training…you can. You can make a difference.” 

 

Mike Powers: “If anybody wanted a challenge, it’s the way to go. It’s probably the biggest challenge you can make in your life. To ride on that ambulance, to serve your community..and maybe save a life or two.”

 

Linda Foster: “You’ve gotten a small view of the big picture of what we do here at Moyers Corners regarding emergency medical work. Would you like to be a part of it? We would like to see if you fit in. Stop by, talk to us, we’d be glad to see if you fit into the big picture”. 

 

June 2nd, 1986
Herald Journal
Firefighters help bury colleague, crash victim
Members of the Moyers Corners Fire Department today laid to rest a colleague who died in a motor vehicle accident Friday. Wearing their dress uniforms, the volunteer firefighters loaded the casket of Michael J. Wolff onto the rear of a fire truck outside the Maurer Funeral Home in Moyers Corners before burial. Wolff, 27, of 7475 Morgan Road, died in the 12:45 p.m. crash on Morgan Road, near the Liverpool bypass. He was a volunteer medic with the department. Authorities said a 1983 Chevrolet Citation driven in a southerly direction by Wolff collided with a second car driven by Edith DeLong of 8948 Morgan Road, swerved across lanes and slammed into a utility pole. DeLong’s car clipped the rear of Wolff’s vehicle as it was turning, police said. Wolff’s car traveled 200 feet as it crossed three lanes. Wolff was wearing a seat belt at the time. Wolff was flown by helicopter to University Hospital where he was pronounced dead at about 2 p.m.

 

June 9th, 1986
Moyers Corners Fire Department Auxiliary
Installation Banquet “A Tribute To Life Members”
A few years ago, we passed a new by-law entitling members in good standing for 20 years to become “life members”. Other than giving them a few priveleges, nothing more was done. Tonight we would like to show our appreciation to all the life members and give them some recognition for all their hard work. We have for each one, a framed certificate and an engraved membership card as a way of saying thank you. As your name is called, would you please come up and accept?

 

Bev Armstrong has been a member for 24 years. She served as corresponding secretary and has worked at many various functions. Bev has dished up so many salt potatoes at field days that she is now known in July as “The Salt Potato Lady”. Thank you Bev.

 

Barbara Brand has been a member for 22 years. She held the office of corresponding secretary for many years and served on many committees. She fights very strongly for the good of the auxiliary without any hard feelings when the meeting is adjourned. But for a lot of her auxiliary years, poor Barb was buried…in rummage, in popcorn and now in dishwater. Thank you Barb.

 

Joanne Donohue has been a member for 21 years. She has been in office both as Vice President for several years and Corresponding Secretary. She was the first to promote our 1-year membership pins and our recogniztion of life members tonight. In fact, Joanne is instrumental in starting a lot of things – like controversial discussions. Thank you Joanne.

 

*Both Barb and Joanne used to assist the auxiliary long before they were members. They used to carry the auxiliary banner for the marchers when they were girl scouts.

 

Helen Fulton has been a member for 23 years. She has taken charge of our fish pond at field days for many years and works at all the functions. Although Helen is very quiet, she is always there to help when you need her. Thank you Helen.

 

Louise Gillespy has been a member for 38 years. She was our Chaplain for several years. Although she is very reluctant to be chairman of things, she works at every function going. Also, many years ago, Louise used to make the coffee for working fires at her house. Thank you Louise.

 

Alice Haney has been a member for 38 years. You know whenever we saw Alice, we saw purple, not because we were angry, but because it was her favorite color. She is a past President whol hld that office for the longest consecutive term from 1959-1977; and in all that time, she only missed one meeting. Thank you Alice.

 

Betty Hanlonhas also been a member for 38 years. She has held office many times including being our first President. Some of the first meetings were held in her home. Betty will do almost anything if it will help our auxiliary including going on television to raise money. Betty – How did if feel to be queen for a day? Thank you Betty.

 

Natalie Hunter has been a member for 25 years. She has served as Vice President and as Corresponding Secretary and headed many committees through the years. Natalie has been Captain of marching too – one of my favorite things – but I still don’t know about those cake walks. Thank you Natalie.

 

Doris Jackson (who always has a smile on her face) has been a member for 29 years. She headed our first big bazaar in 1974 and now takes charge of the rummage sales. She has cooked the hot dogs at the field days for so many years that she is our own personal competition for Heids. Thank you Doris.

 

Hattie Karker has been a member for 38 years. She is also a past President and has chaired many committees, especially suppers, where she taught all of us the easiest way to cook for a crown. Although Hattie may be best known for how far she can stretch a cake or how fast she can chop vegetables, she also knows how to keep us in line. She is the one who arranged for the purchase of our gavel. Thank you Hattie.

 

Clara Marshall has been a member for 38 years. She is also one of our past Presidents and kept the records of our meetings for approximately 24 years which is a record in itself. She chaired the xuiliary booth at the field days for many years and has sort of been my guide regarding by-laws, procedures, past policies, etc. Thank you Clara.

 

Grace Melvin has been a member for 38 years. She has served as Vice President, Treasuer and Dispatcher. When the fire phone rang in their house, Grace activated the siren for the men to come man the fire engine that was housed in their bard – the first Station 2. Thank you Grace.

 

Ellie Oakes has been a member for 30 years. While Ellie never ran for office that we could tell from our records, she hardly ever missed a meeting or function. She has been a participant of almost everything from county to marching and pushball to fashion shows and smokerettes. She must have liked short meetings because she almost always made the motion to adjourn. Thank you Ellie.

 

Marge Rybinski has been a member for 36 years. She has served on many committees through the years and is still one of our most willing participants. She is one of our early morning workers at the field days and her flowers have brightened the tables at all our suppers. Thank you Marge.

 

Katie Schmidt has been a member for 38 years. She has been Treasurer, Vice President and was our Chaplain for many years. Katie was our fish and french fry lady at the field days. She too was always smiling, as I remember and too stubborn to sit down when she was tired. Thank you Katie.

 

Lorraine Sahm has been a member for 33 years. Lorraine is also one of our past Presidents. She has chaired more committees than I care to count including some that most of you won’t rmember like the refreshments when we had bingo – and the nite-club nights. Lorraine is a member of a whole family of Moyers Corners people from her mother and husband to three of her four children. Thank you Lorraine.

 

Bev Tietz has been a member for 27 years. She has been a Vice President and was chairman of the smoker committee for several years. Bev kept moving away from us but she always come back again and she is the only life member who still marches. Thank you Bev.

 

Ethel Viel has been a member for 25 years. She was our Treasurer for several years. Ethel was Katie’s protégé for french fries where she still works every year at the field days. While she is nother member who is quiet and stays out of the limelight, there is one thing that sets her apart from the rest of the life members – she was never a marcher. Thank you Ethel.

 

July 14th, 1986
Messenger
Tornados rip Syracuse Area
About 6:45 p.m., tornado winds slammed into the Casual Estates Trailer Park in the town of Clay, knocking over six mobile homes,  according to Ken Brand, fire chief of the Moyers Corners Fire Department. Brand said one person required medical attention. He did not know the extent of the person’s injuries.

 

August 1986
Gananaque, Canada Field Days
Pictures

 

August 5th, 1986
Vehicle Accident at Three Rivers Bridge
pictures

 

September 3rd, 1986
The Miller’s hot air ballon will be on display when the Moyers Corners Fire Department holds a chicken barbeque to benefit the rescue squad. The date is Sunday, Sept. 14th, from noon until all is served, at Station 1, Routes 31 and 57. A raffle will take place on a 1 hour champagne balloon flight for two.  Take out orders of the fried chicken will be available. Picture of balloon

 

October 8th, 1986 Auxiliary Picture

 

November 20, 1986
Herald Journal Suburban Edition
By Debra Adams, Staff Writer
Island residents worst fears come true in fire
A house fire Wednesday on Horseshoe Island was one of the residents’ worst fears come true. But even if firefighters had had better access to the island they don’t think they could have saved the house. For several years, access to Horseshoe Island has been restricted since the state limited the weight allowed on the frail 75-year old bridge over the Oneida River. The state put a limit of eight tons on vehicles using the bridge, and most of the fire department’s trucks weigh about 16 tons. Fire officials called the house at 3436 Horseshoe Island Road “a total loss.” But even a better bridge could not have helped firefighters save the house, said Ken Brand, Moyers Corners first assistant fire chief. By the time Mary Mardin noticed the smoke coming from the house next door, it was too late. The Moyers Corners Fire Department estimates more than $30,000 in damages resulted from the fire. The department bought a mini-pumper in early 1985 in case of fire on Horseshoe Island, and the mini-pumper saw its first major tour of duty on the island. The Phoenix Fire Department assisted in snuffing the blaze with its mini-pumper which was able to cross the bridge without violating the state’s weight requirement. The North Syracuse Fire Department also pitched in and Liverpool firefighters were standing by in case they were needed, Brand said. Mini-pumpers cannot carry as much water as larger trucks, so additional smaller trucks are needed to make up the difference. The fire came less than a week after the state DOT officials announced they would replace the dilapidated bridge with a new $1.5 million structure. When completed, the new bridge would be able to accommodate vehicles up to 40 tons, the maximum allowed under state law.

 

      In 1984, the state agreed to rehabilitate the bridge when sever Horseshoe Island residents complained of being denied fuel service because of the weight restrictions. Snow plows, school buses, fuel tanks and fire trucks have had to modify the amount of service provided to the residents because of the weight restriction. The new bridge will be completed at the end of 1988. Until then, the residents on the island are a little uneasy about their protection. “It’s too bad they couldn’t get it done a little quicker,” Horseshoe Island resident Robert O’Connell had said in an interview last week. And Wednesday, many island resident s echoed that concern. “If you own property, you feel you should be protected," Mardin said. Brand assured residents that --"the response time was just as good as if we had the major trucks. Neither of the residents of the house, George Michaelhart nor Robert Moica, were at home Wednesday when the fire started. "One's a student and the other one left for the day," Brand said, adding that the cause of the fire should be determined in the next few days. County fire officials, the Moyers Corners Fire Department and the Clay Police Department are investigating the fire's origin.

 

December 15th, 1986
Auxiliary Christmas Banquet at the Bonanza Restaurant. Donations again received to help a needy family enjoy the holiday season

 

 

 

1987

 

Chief Chet Fritz
 First Deputy Chief: Ken Brand Jr.
Second Deputy Chief Greg Tiner
Battalion 1 Chief Dick Perkins
Battalion 2 Chief George Race
Battalion 3 Chief Steve Wisely
Station 1 Captains Bud Neuman,  Mike Chura
Station 2 Captains Chris Naum, Ron Turiello
Station 3 Captains John Perkins, Tim Chura 
Station 1 Lieutenants: Bill Henry, George Gobin, Kevin Wilcox, Steve Rubacky
Station 2 Lieutenants: Ron Jennings, Don Mace, Ken Filow, Dave Morgan
Station 3 Lieutenants: Frank Houde, Jerry Hole, Dan Bartholf, Mark Goettel

 

Executive Board
 President Bob Swahn
Vice President Bob Michelson 
Secretary Colin Bailey, Assistant Secretary Dexter Blake 
Treasurer Mike LeFebvre, Assistant Treasurers Kathy McMahon, Ron Sorrentino

 

Fire Police:  Captain Bob Swahn 
 Lieutenants: Ken Brand Sr., Dick Kyle, Tom Olsweski

 

Ambulance Admins: Administrator Linda Foster, 1st Assistant Bonnie Caza, 2nd Assistant Christy Leeson, 3rd Assistant Sharon Moynihan

 

Auxiliary: President Rosemary Morgan, Vice President Debbie Neuman, Recording Secretary Cindy Houde,  Corresponding Secretary Linda Gobin, Treasurer Sue Davison, Chaplain Carolyn Funnel Woods

 

Scholarship Winner: Kim Neuman

 

New Apparatus: GMC 3500 Squad 3, later became Squad 2.

 

Hazmat Trailer, Wells Cargo. Hazmat 1 then Hazmat 2. 

 

3 Battalion System Started 

 

1987 Station 1 Qualified Drivers:

 

Engine 11/12: Ken Brand Jr. , Mike Chura, George Gobin, Bill Henry, Scott Krell, Steve Mauser, Greg Mazza, Bud Neuman, Dick Perkins, George Sahm, Keith Sahm, Greg Shaffer, John Olgren, John Metzler, Ed Jones, Gary Johnson, Paul Tomachesky, Kevin Wilcox
Mini 1: Dexter Blake,Ken Brand Jr. , Rich Chicallo, Mike Chura, George Gobin, Bill Henry, Joe Jeffski, Scott Krell, Steve Mauser, Greg Mazza, Denny Moore, Bud Neuman, Dick Perkins, George Sahm, Keith Sahm, Greg Shaffer, John Olgren, John Metzler, Ed Jones, Gary Johnson, Paul Tomachesky, Kevin Wilcox, Ron Williams
Rescue 1: Ken Brand Jr. , Mike Chura, George Gobin, Scott Krell, Steve Mauser, Greg Mazza, Bud Neuman, Dick Perkins, George Sahm, Greg Shaffer, Kevin Wilcox, John Olgren, Steve Rubacky, Bill Henry, Ron Williams

 

 

 

Installation Banquet pictures 

 

January 7th, 1987
 Herald Journal
By Debra Adams
Clay ambulance squad needs help
A personnel shortage in the Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department's Medical Rescue Squad has prompted the department to begin a recruitment drive With the population of the town of Clay increasing from 36,274 in 1970 to 52,838 in 1980 and expecting to reach 62,681 by the year 2000, one would think it's easy to get some people to donate a few hours for a good cause, but that hasn't been the case "The volume of calls has grown so dramatically that we don't have enough personnel to handle everything," said Linda Foster, administrator of the Medical Rescue Squad "The district is more populated than in the past" About 15,000 brochures were sent out as part of the fire department's recruitment and fund drive. So far, only 10 responses have been received from people interested in volunteering. Currently, the department has 160 volunteers, Foster said Members of the rescue squad are required to give 16 hours per month for scheduled ambulance shifts. They also attend bi-monthly training drills, monthly departmental meetings and classroom and hospital training to maintain state certification in addition to being ready to respond at any time Foster said some local residents are unaware of the volunteer shortage "The people in the area are used to getting our service but they don't realize there is a shortage," she said She said the largest shortage of fire and emergency service personnel exists during the day. Foster added that people hesitate volunteering because they're aware of the hard work involved "People have a reluctancy to join because they know they have to become trained," she said "It's not the bridge club "  Foster, a paramedic, puts in more than 40 hours a week as a volunteer She said a great deal of paperwork is necessary to keep everything running smoothly "It is a business, and it has to be run as a business," she said  "The organization has to have leadership, and those who are elected to leadership have to put in the extra time," Foster added In the past the medical rescue squad has run ads asking for volunteers "We bring members into our department every month," Foster said But the number of volunteers has remained constant even though the town's population has grown 

 

January 28th, 1987
Herald Journal
Debra Adams
State plans replacement for Horseshoe Island Bridge
Plans are underway to search for a replacement for the Horseshoe Island Bridge. New York state Department of Transportation officials are planning an informational meeting to address concerns by Horseshoe Island residents about the bridge. The forum will be Feb. 4 at the Moyers Corners Fire Department at the corner of County Route 57 and slate Route 31. The state DOT announced in November that a new $1.5 million structure would replace the decaying, 75-year-old bridge.  The bridge, which spans the -Barge Canal, connects 200 residents who live on Horseshoe Island with the rest of the county. For several years, access to Horseshoe Island has been restricted since the state limited the maximum weight using the bridge to 8 tons. In 1984, state officials agreed to rehabilitate the bridge when residents complained of being denied fuel service because of the weight restriction. Snow plows, school buses, fuel trucks and fire trucks have had to modify the amount of service provided. In 1985, the Moyers Corners Fire Department purchased a mini-pumper to service Horseshoe Island residents. A regular-sized fire truck weighs about 16 tons, twice the restricted weight. ' A fire late last year turned residents' fears about the bridge into reality. Several local fire departments crossed the bridge with mini-pumpers to douse the blaze at 3436 Horseshoe Island Road which firefighters called "a total loss." Mini-pumpers cannot carry as much water as the larger trucks, so additional mini-pumpers are needed to make up the difference, Moyers Corners fire officials said. Ken Brand, first assistant fire chief of Moyers Corners, said the 'response time to the fire was not delayed by the weight restriction. Included in the meeting will be information about the bridge's location, design standards, pavement changes and proposed right- of-ways. The state plans to replace the current structure with a "new design" to be built east of the present site so that the old bridge will continue to carry traffic, said Richard Simberg, regional director of the state DOT. . Simberg said he anticipates a ' good turnout at the Feb. 4 meeting. Work on the bridge should begin this spring and is expected to be completed late next year. The structure would be able to accommodate vehicles up to 40 tons, the maximum allowed under state law.

 

January 28, 1987
The Messenger – Progress Edition –– Moyers Corners Explorer Post is oldest in county
Nearly 20— high- school students give up their Saturday mornings each week to gather at the Moyers Corners
Fire Department to learn the basic skills of safety in fighting fires. They are members of the MCFD Explorer Post, the oldest firematic post in Onondaga County Leader Kevin Wisely, himself a former Explorer, and a current member of the department, says. "One of the most valuable lessons these young people learn is how to work together and help each other. That kind of cooperation is very important in working as a team to fight a fire." Kevin has led the post for two years with the assistance of other members of the department."Everyone helps out in his own area of expertise." He adds The explorer post, open to students age 14 through ,18 who have completed eighth grade, is patterned after the fire department in organization. Members elect officers and plan their programs at business meetings where they follow Roberts' rules-of order. They enjoy a few social functions, but for the most part, membership is a commitment to the station and to learning the" static necessary to fight a fire."Many of the young people join as volunteers,” explains Kevin. “In fact, many of the officers of the Moyers Corners Fire Department were once Explorers.” Some members get so excited about their involvement that they want to spend most of their time at the station. That is discouraging, however, as Kevin feels the students must first fulfill their obligations as students and members of a family."We set limits on the number of hours they can be here because we believe that family and school must come first," he says. Firematic Explorers perform helpful tasks around the station as part of their service. For example they assist in keeping equipment ready for instant use and help clean the engines after a call. Their main goal, however, is to learn the techniques and skills they will need in the future when they become firefighters themselves. Four members will leave the group this summer when they turn 18. One of them has expressed his intention to join the volunteers and two are going to school for four years to study fire science. Kevin, who says he "grew up in it" because his father was a firefighter for 25 years says he accepts the assignment as chairman of the Explorer committee because he enjoys working with the young people and he feels a great sense of accomplishment in helping them develop their skills. “These are great kids who are already contributing to their community,” he declared.

 

Moyers Corners FD MRS says thank you Article Picture    

 

February 12th 1987 Brookwood Village Fire
Channel 3 News Interview with Chief Chet Fritz:
“Up on the roof we got advance, we went down a few other apartments.  The fire was in Apartment 2  it was my understanding. We went down to apartment 3, 4 and 5, pulled some walls, pulled some ceilings and cutthe fire off.

 

Channel 5 News Interview with Chief Chet Fritz:
“I’m not sure exactly where it started, preliminarily it started in Apartment 2. Extensive damage…it got in the cockloft and ran the cockloft. We had to cut it off. We trench cutted it in a couple places and we stopped it because we felt it was not fire-stopped. We know that it is not fire-stopped up there and it was close to going the length of the building. But we stopped it at Apartment 4. There is heavy damage in Apartments 1, 2, 3, and 4. I don’t know what started it. We’ve got the County Fire Investigators in here now and they’re staring to look it over. We’ve been so busy that the cause and origin team is just taken over.“ 

 

February 16th, 1987
Cold Brings Fire and Ice to CNY
Post Standard
Mike McAndrew and Brenda Cawthon
A blaze that left at least 35 residents of a Clay apartment building temporarily homeless Monday was accidentally started by a maintenance man thawing water pipes with a gas torch, Onondaga County Fire Coordinator Mike Waters said. The fire started shortly after 10 a.m. in Building 5 of the Village Highlands apartment complex, about one mile north of Liverpool on Avon Parkway. A maintenance man used the torch Sunday night and again Monday morning to try to warm a frozen water pipe in the Village Highlands rental office, fire officials said. The fire quickly spread from the rental office to an adjacent apartment rented by a family of four and then traveled through a loft to two other apartments in the 10-unit building. No one was injured. Fire investigators refused to identify the maintenance man. Moyers Corners Fire Chief Chester Fritz, the first firefighter on the scene, said he was driving past Village Highlands at 10:13 am when he saw smoke coming from the roof over the row of apartments. “It was moving,” Fritz said of the fire. “We brought guys on the roof early on, and we managed to get ahead of the fire.” Firefighters brought the blaze under control within an hour. Fire Investigator Palmer App said the blaze could have razed the entire building if firefighters had not quickly knocked holes in the roof to stop the fire’s progress. David Herring was in Apartment 2, next to the rental office, when the fire was discovered. Firefighters arrived a few minutes after he ran outside. Herring said he figured many of his and his fiancée’s possessions were ruined by the blaze. But he said he was just thankful no one was hurt. The rental office bore the brunt of the damage, but Apartments 2 through 4 also suffered fire damage, and gaping holes were knocked in the roof above apartments 5 and 6. Brookwood Management, Inc. of Long Island purchased the 300 unit Village Highlands apartment complex January 1st, according to fire investigators. Firefighters from Moyers Corners, Mattydale, Phoenix, Liverpool, Clay and Baldwinsville responded. 

 

 

 

Herald Journal
Blaze ravages complex 
By Jeanne Sheridan
Residents of at least 10 apartments were forced out into zero-degree temperatures today by a fire that blazed out of control, destroying the Village Highland Apartment complex. Fire officials were unable to say what caused the fire , but residents said they thought it was caused by electrical problems. In recent days, they said, a number of complaints of electrical problems have gone unheeded, wall sockets have felt hot to the touch, the electricity has gone out and residents were told to switch circuit breakers back on. Residents said they learned of the fire by people pounding on their doors; the alarms did not go off. More than 100 firefighters from seven departments were called to the scene off Morgan Road. No injuries were reported, fire officials at the scene said. 

 

The blaze in Building 5, which contains 10 apartments as well as a rental office, was reported shortly after 10 a.m. A mutual-aid call asking for help from all available firefighting crews was issued about 10:15. By 11:30 a.m., thick black smoke still filled the sky and flames were shooting from the roof. Assistant Fire Coordinator Dick Beach, the first fire coordinator on the scene, said that an initial search showed everyone appeared to be evacuated. The Village Highlands, which was formerly called Hollyrood Park, is located between Steelway Boulevard and Avon Drive, along Morgan Road in the town of Clay. Tenants evacuated from the building huddled outside trying to keep warm in the cold. Moyers Corners Fire Chief Chet Fritz said the fire apparently started in an attic portion of the building and spread the entire length of the two-story structure. Fritz said the cause of the blaze could not immediately be determined, but residents of the building said they suspected the fire was started by a malfunction in the building's electrical system. Linda Stanton and John Prunner, who live in one of the apartments with their five children, said they were awakened by a neighbor pounding on their door. Although her living room was filled with smoke, Stanton said, the fire alarm never sounded. ``A guy pounded on the door and told us to get out,'' Stanton said. ``We were still asleep, because we work nights.'' Stanton said she and other tenants had trouble with electricity going off throughout the day Sunday. When they reported the problem to maintenance people, they were told to switch the circuit breakers back on. 
The apartment had been hot even when nothing was plugged into them and that there are exposed wires in parts of the building. Other residents reported similar incidents. Karen Muldoon, who lives in the building, said her family has experienced problems with wiring for the last month. She said that on several occasions sparks flew from the sockets when her son Chris plugged something into them. ``They've come a couple of times to fix things, but we've still had more problems,'' she said. Several tenants and owners of other apartment complexes confirmed that a new owner, thought to be from Long Island, took over The Village Highland in February. 

The complex, which at one time was called the Hollyrood Park Apartments, is located between Steelway Boulevard and Avon Drive, along Morgan Road in the town of Clay. Town of Clay Assessor Ernest Casale said, ``We have no knowledge of who the (new) owners are'' because of a three-month lag in receiving copies of deeds from the Onondaga County Clerk's office. Both Casale and Julian Kempisty, town enforcement officer, said they were unaware of any past fire code violations at the apartment complex. But several tenants of adjoining apartment buildings said there has been a history of electrical problems, particularly in the kitchens. 

Casale said inspecting electrical work would not be the responsibility of the town, but of the New York Board of Fire Underwriters. Fire Chief Fritz said firefighters from Moyers Corners , Mattydale, Clay, Liverpool, Baldwinsville, Phoenix and North Syracuse responded to the scene. ``When we got here, it was going good,'' Fritz said. ``After we got sufficient manpower, we were able to get up on the roof and start knocking the fire down.'' Fritz said the rental office sustained most of the damage.

 

February 17th, 1987
Herald Journal
Movers help burned-out tenants haul goods to vacant apartments
Movers hired by the management of a fire-ravaged apartment building were'hauling tenants' belongings to new quarters today, as residents tried to salvage what they could. Tenants in 10 apartments at the Village Highlands complex off Morgan Road in the town of Clay will be lodged in vacant apartments until their building" can be repaired. Fire officials determined that the blaze that swept through the building Monday was caused by a maintenance worker's blow torch. Eugene Fletcher of A&W Moving and Storage said he was told it would be about three weeks before the building could be repaired. "We were here until midnight last night, and we came back early again this morning," Fletcher said. Another mover, Joe Neddo, said residents in apartments seven to 10 sustained little damage to their belongings, but they were forced to move anyway because power to the building was shut off. Neddo said the belongings of people who resided in the first six apartments in the building were damaged extensively. "It's a real mess in those apartments," Neddo said. "Some of those people lost just about everything." Chet Fritz, Moyers Corners fire chief, said a maintenance man was working on a copper water pipe between the bathrooms of apartments one and two in Building 5 when the wall caught fire. Fritz said the man was using a blow torch to thaw pipes.

 

March 21st, 1987
Men’s Smoker at Station 1
Great New Pictures

 

April 19th, 1987
Herald American
Explorer program trains firefighters for the future
By Debra Adams
A half-dozen junior firefighters, armed with water hoses, charged through heated air Saturday to extinguish a propane gas fire. The event was part of a live drill at the Cicero fire training tower Saturday for the Moyers Corners Fire Department and the Taunton Volunteer Fire Department Explorer posts. Saturday's training was one of many regular training sessions that prepare youth to serve as adult firefighters. "About 30 Explorers attended. "The most important reason for having them is that it's the prime source of manpower for fire departments," said Dexter Blake, adviser to the Moyers Corners Fire Department Explorer Post. "They automatically get admitted to the fire department and they're already trained. Captain John Perkins, a Moyers Corners training officer at the drill, said Explorer posts provide desperately needed firefighters. "These days of trying to get members is tough. "We try to get them young, when they're interested." "They go through all the training an adult goes through," Blake said. "They can do what the average citizen takes six months to learn."

 

Chip Pirano, second assistant chief for Taunton Volunteer Fire Department, said Taunton has about five firefighters who were Explorers. Piraino said the Explorers are very involved in what they are doing. "You can't slow these kids down," he said. "You see them at more drills than you see firefighters. Piraino said if a fire is large, firefighters will call the Explorers over the radio to come and help them do little things. Fire officials are not the only people pleased about the Explorers. Some parents are too. "I love it," Nick Pagano of Manchester Road, Westvale, said of his 14-year old son's participation at Taunton. "It's like a godsend to the parent of a teenager. It's positive activity." Fire officials said a few Explorers got their parents involved with volunteer fire fighting. Parents and firefighters are pleased about the Explorer posts, but not as much as the Explorers themselves. "It's great," said Edward Flaherty, 16, of 121 E. Clover Road, Westvale. "I've learned a lot that I didn't know." Flaherty has been in the Taunton Explorer Post for about two months. Jason Blake, 17, of 7468 Buckeye Road, Liverpool serves as first lieutenant of the Moyers Corners Explorer Post. Blake, who has been an Explorer for two years, said he plans to join the volunteer fire squad in June. Four-year Explorer Steve Fedorko, 17, of 3919 Merganser Drive is the Moyers Corners explorer chief. "I plan on getting into the fire service," Fedorko said. "I've been accepted to Onondaga Community College for the fire protection (program)." Fedorko said eventually he would like to get into a paid fire department.

 

April 21st, 1987
Syracuse Herald-Journal
By Mark Weiner
Victim, firefighter recal 1973 blaze
For 72-year-old Les Caines of Skaneateles Falls, the propane gas explosion in DeWitt brought back memories he spent years trying to forget. On a hot summer day almost 14 years ago, Caines suffered second-degree burns on his face, hands and upper body in an explosion and fire at the Moyers Corners Suburban Propane Gas Co. in Clay. Firefighters from throughout northern Onondaga County spent more than 12 hours battling the county’s last major propane explosion. Caines spent three weeks in the hospital. He was the only person seriously injured in the July 17th, 1973 fire at the propane gas warehouse and sales facility at the south east corners of route 57 and 31. The retired truck driver said he was unloading and filling empty propane gas tanks when one 20-pound tank overflowed. "I went to pour some out and then what happened, I don't know. She just flared up," Caines recalled. Although he was seriously burned, Caines said he helped two co-workers shut off valves to four main propane holding tanks at the site - averting what fire officials said could have been a disaster. The blaze, however, was so intense and dangerous that firefighters waited about an hour before going on the grounds, said Kenneth Brand Jr., deputy fire chief of the Moyers Corners Fire Department in Clay. "It was a hell of a lot bigger than the one they had there in DeWitt," Brand said Monday afternoon. "I remember because I was right in the middle of it." Brand, son of the Moyers Corners fire chief who directed the 12 fire departments fighting the blaze, said 100-pound propane gas cylinders were exploding when he arrived. Some of the cylinders went skyrocketing into empty fields about one-half mile away, he said. The warehouse, three company trucks and a company-owned car were destroyed in the fire. A number of similarities can be found when accounts of the 1973 fire are compared with Monday's events,

 

April 27th 1987
Herald Journal
Four left homeless in Clay
Gary Gerew and Jeanne Sheridan
Moyers Corners firefighters struggled for more than an hour today with a fast-moving fire that destroyed a two-story house at 4110 Willowbrook Drive in the town of Clay. No serious injuries were reported in the blaze, which left Robert and Celia Levme and their two grown sons homeless. But one firefighter was treated for a knee injury when his leg became pinned between a hose and a fire truck. The cause of the fire was still undetermined, but investigators said the blaze began in the basement. Firefighters speculated it may have started in an electric blanket. A final determination was being withheld until investigators could probe the burned basement area. The fire was reported at 6:49 a.m. when Mrs. Levine and her two sons, Randy and Jack, got out of the house and told neighbors to leave their homes because of the spreading fire.  "When they came over, the top of the house was just engulfed with smoke. You couldn't see any flames," said William Seibert who lives next to the Levines. Firefighters said that when the siren sounded, the sky already was filled with dark black smoke.  "We don't know why it spread so rapidly a this time, but it started in the basement and worked all the way through," said Moyers Corners Deputy Fire Chief Ken Brand. Heat from the fire was so intense that lawn furniture on the rear deck of the house was partially melted. 

 

April 28th – Willowbrook Fire
Post Standard

 

April 28th, 1987
Gary Gerew and Jeanne Sheriden
Moyers Corners firefighters struggled foR more than an hour today with a fast moving fire that destroyed a two story house at 4110 Willowbrook Drive in the town of Clay. No serious injuries were reported in the blaze, which left Robert and Celia Levine and their two sons homeless. But one firefighter was treated for a knee injury when his leg became pinned between a hose and a fire truck. The cause of the fire was undetermined today, but investigators said the blaze began in the basement. Firefighters speculated an electric blanket may have caused the fire. A final determination was being withheld until investigators could probe the burned basement area.

 

Herald Journal
Investigators believe the fier was started by a malfunctioning electric blanket in a basement bedroom of Robert and Celia Levine of 4110 Willowbrook Drive, Clay. The Levine’s and their two sons lost almost all their possessions in the 6:47 a.m. blaze, said George Race, third assistant chief of the Moyers Corners Fire Department. Celia Levine and her children escaped without injury, firefighters said. Randy Levine, a sophomore at Liverpool High School, said he heard the smoke alarm, went to the basement and saw flames shooting from the bed. The blaze was brought under control within 20 minutes, Race said.

 

News interview with Deputy Chief Ken Brand Jr.:
“We had a working fire upon arrival. We are on the scene of a single family home here. It started in the basement and rapidly moved to the first floor and second floor and out through the roof. The first battalion chief on the scene called it a working fire upon arrival. We’ve been here approximately an hour now and we still have a small fire in the basement. We don’t know the reason for the rapid spread, we’ve got the investigators here now. If we get the fire knocked down in the basement we may be able to tell. At this time we don’t have any idea. Anytime you have a fire in a basement and it goes all through the house, it’s just so hard to get to…when you have the ceilings and second floor falling down to the first floor. It’s hard to get to the basement and we don’t want anyone to get hurt. We are working from the outside at this time to get the fire out in the basement.”

 

April 1987 
Scholarship Winners
Kim Neuman is the daughter of Debbie and Bud Neuman. Steve Fedorko, son of Mary and Bob Smith.

 

New Pictures

 

April 19th, 1987
Explorer Program Trains Firefighters of the Future
Syracuse Herald American
By Debra Adams
A half-dozen junior firefighters, armed with water hoses, charged through heated air Saturday to extinguish a propane gas fire . The event was part of a live drill at the Cicero fire training tower Saturday for the Moyers Corners Fire Department and the Taunton Volunteer Fire Department Explorer posts. Saturday's training was one of many regular training sessions that prepare youth to serve as adult firefighters. About 30 Explorers attended. ``The most important reason for having them is that it's the prime source of manpower for fire departments ,'' said Dexter Blake, adviser to the Moyers Corners Fire Department Explorer Post. ``They automatically get admitted to the fire department and they're already trained. Captain John Perkins, a Moyers Corners training officer at the drill, said Explorer posts provide desperately needed firefighters. ``These days, trying to get members is tough," he said. "We try to get them young, when they're interested.'' ``They go through all the training an adult goes through,'' Blake said. ``They can do what the average citizen takes six months to learn.'' Chip Piraino, second assistant chief for Taunton Volunteer Fire Department , said Taunton has about five firefighters who were Explorers. Piraino said the Explorers are very involved in what they are doing. ``You can't slow these kids down,'' he said. ``You see them at more drills than you see firefighters." 
Piraino said if a fire is large, firefighters will call the Explorers over the radio to come and help them do little things. Fire officials are not the only people pleased about the Explorers. Some parents are, too. 
``I love it,'' Nick Pagano of Manchester Road, Westvale, said of his 14-year old son's participation at Taunton. ``It's like a godsend to the parent of a teenager. It's positive activity.'' Fire officials said a few Explorers got their parents involved with volunteer fire fighting. Parents and firefighters are pleased about the Explorer posts, but not as much as the Explorers themselves. ``It's great,'' said Edward Flaherty, 16, of 121 E. Clover Road, Westvale. ``I've learned a lot that I didn't know.'' Flaherty has been in the Taunton Explorer Post for about two months. 

Jason Blake, 17, of 7468 Buckeye Road, Liverpool serves as first lieutenant of the Moyers Corners Explorer Post. Blake, who has been an Explorer for two years, said he plans to join the volunteer fire squad in June. Four-year Explorer Steve Fedorko, 17, of 3919 Merganser Drive is the Moyers Corners chief. ``I plan on getting into the fire service,'' Fedorko said. ``I've been accepted to Onondaga Community College for the fire protection (program).'' Fedorko said eventually he would like to get into a paid fire department .

 

May 7th, 1987
Bicyclist Hits Fire Truck, Faces Charges
The Post-Standard
A 79-year-old bicyclist was charged April 21 with riding against the flow of traffic on Old Liverpool Road, Salina. John Maslowski of 210 Bartlett Ave., Liverpool, was charged after his bike struck a Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department vehicle, driven by Dexter Blake of 7468 Buckeye Road, Liverpool, as it was exiting the Lakeview Apartments parking lot. Maslowski was not injured

 

May 11th, 1987
Auxiliary Installation Banquet
Joyce Bressette received life membership certificate and card. Joyce Bressette, Sandy Henderson and Tudy Brutcher installed the officers.Picture of Joyce

 

May 12th, 1987
Softball Team pictures

 

May 28th, 1987
Memorial Day parade, pictures 

 

May 31st, 1987
Fire-Volunteers Shortage Critical
Syracuse Herald American
By Henry Davis
Rich Flanagan didn't want to believe what he saw.  While he watched his son play football at a rival school, a boy on the other team was injured.  The team's trainers rushed onto the field. It seemed the boy had a back or neck injury. Nobody wanted to move him.  Someone called for an ambulance. The siren sounded. No help came.  A few minutes passed. The siren sounded again. No help came. The siren blew a third time. Still, no one responded. Finally, someone called Eastern Ambulance, the commercial service in Syracuse. Fifty minutes after the boy was injured, help arrived. 

Flanagan tells the story to show what he says is a frightening emergency these days: the 57 volunteer companies that fight the fires and operate the ambulances around Onondaga County don't have enough members. Flanagan knows the seriousness of the shortage first hand. He is first assistant chief of the Otisco Fire Department and president of the Onondaga County Fire Chiefs Association. ``Maybe there was no one around to man the ambulance,'' said Flanagan of the evening his son's opponent was injured. ``Maybe they didn't respond because they felt deep down it wasn't an emergency. I don't know. I do know that 50 minutes is too long a wait.'' The waits could become more frequent unless something is done to lure volunteers. The solution to the problem may be expensive paid fire and ambulance crews, like those operating in the city of Syracuse. ``The situation is grave,'' said Richard Beach, the assistant coordinator for county Fire Mutual Aid and Training. ``We are on the threshold of facing two alternatives -- having no protection or paying for it.'' 

The North Syracuse Fire Department operates with little more than half the 80 members it should have, said Chief Eric Smeltz. Without mutual aid -- whereby departments back up each other -- North Syracuse would rarely be able to send the minimum 12 firefighters required to battle a building fire. ``The work is spread out among a few people,'' Smeltz said. ``It's tough, but I worry about the day when I can't replace the small core of really active people.'' Moyers Corners Fire Department responds to 1,800 ambulance calls a year -- second only to NAVAC, the North Area Volunteer Ambulance Corps. Residents don't pay for the service; the fire department supports it by conducting fund drives. Linda Foster, administrator of the department 's emergency medical services, takes pride in the quality of the service and commitment of the volunteers. But like nearly every volunteer ambulance corps in the county, this one is short staffed, especially in the daytime. Its two ambulances don't leave their bays unless they carry at least two people -- a driver and emergency medical technician. 

``If we're on one call, it sometimes means we can't answer a second or third call,'' Foster said. Officials cite the following reasons for the lack of volunteers: - It's a more mobile society. ``People no longer live in the community they grew up in. There's less sense of community obligation,'' said Bernie Horak, director of the county's Emergency Medical Services Bureau. - People don't have the time. Most households now depend on the income of both wife and husband. Also, many people work two jobs. - The fire hall no longer is the social center of a small town or village. - The cost and training time scare away new recruits. Fire equipment costs about $500 per person; ambulance gear about $300. It takes 109 hours of training to become a basic emergency medical technician; six months is the average length of fire -training courses. - The volunteer departments kept a low profile and waited too long to address their thinning ranks. 

The fire departments and rescue squads have countered low numbers with the mutual aid system. But that may not be good enough. ``It's common to activate one to three departments for a fire to guarantee manpower, but we're losing ground,'' Beach said. Moreover, 70 percent of the calls in the county are for emergency medical service. With increasing frequency, the medical calls include non-emergency -- some officials say needless -- services such as transporting patients. ``Does someone want to volunteer for this?'' Flanagan asks. ``Volunteers want something important and real.'' County volunteers share their woes with others in the state. There are 150,000 volunteer firefighters -- about 90,000 of them active -- in the state. Because they don't get paid, they save the taxpayers nearly $1 billion a year, according to figures provided by the state Assembly Volunteer Firemen Subcommittee. ``The public has to recognize the cost savings and professional service,'' said Paul D. Tonko, D-Amsterdam, chairman of the subcommittee. 

The age of the average firefighter is mid-to-late 40s, according to Tonko. ``That's frightening, with fewer young people coming in and more people retiring,'' he said. State and local officials said they hope they can reverse, or at least slow, the slide. Most of the solutions, though, come with a price tag. Tonko has two bills in committee. One would give volunteer firefighters -- and if amended, ambulance personnel -- a $1,500 personal income tax credit. The other calls for the creation of a temporary state commission on recruitment and retention of volunteers. And, the Senate recently formed a task force to study volunteer emergency services. ``I hope we can drum up interest, but passage (of the bills) may be difficult this year,'' Tonko said. ``Fiscal concerns do play a part in this.'' Tonko also is conducting hearings on the issue throughout the state, with one scheduled for Syracuse in the fall. More immediate answers may come on the local level. Moyers Corners has been advertising for recruits in the local weekly newspaper; and a large sign outside the North Syracuse fire station reads: ``Help wanted. We need volunteer firefighters.'' Last week, the county's Fire Chiefs' and Firemens' associations confirmed plans to open a recruitment hotline in the next few weeks. That move, said Flanagan, will be coupled with a ``media blitz.''

 

June 11th, 1987
Woman ‘Critical’ in Car-Bus Crash
The Post Standard
by Rick Moriarty
A school bus collided with a car that was backing onto a busy Clay road at rush hour Thursday afternoon, critically injuring the 66-year-old driver of the car. Ida H. Letizia of Virginia Beach, Va., suffered serious head injuries when the car she was driving collided with a Liverpool School District bus on Route 57 in Bayberry, police said. Letizia was rushed by Moyers Corners Fire Department ambulance to St. Joseph’s Hospital, where she was in serious to critical condition early today. Clay police Lt. Richard Schad said the bus was carrying no passengers when the accident occurred about 4 p.m. The bus driver – Diane L. Couch, 39, of 8421 Sweet Mill Lane, Clay – reported chest pains following the crash, police said. She was teken to St. Joseph’s Hospital by the Liverpool Fire Department ambulance, treated and released. Schad said Letizia was backing out of a driveway at 7689 Oswego Road and was in the southbound lane when the southbound bus struck the right side of her car. Police said letizia apparently did not see the bus coming. No one else was in her car, officers said. Police filed no charges pending further investigation of the accident. The front end of the buss was damaged. Schad said he did not know where the bus was heading when the crash occurred.

 

June 19th, 1987
Letter from Gene Young to Herald Journal
I am an eight-year member of the Moyers Corners Fire Department and a 36-year-old attorney. I read with interest your June 3 editorial, where you fix much of the blame for lack of fire and ambulance volunteers on young suburban professionals This will be news to the professional engineers, architects, accountants, medical doctor, meteorologist, computer technicians, teachers, police officers and dozens of other young professionals in my fire department. In fact, about 80 percent of the 230 members of Moyers Corners are "Yuppies." I can personally guarantee you that none of us has any time to vegetate on couches

 

June 22nd, 1987
Auxiliary June Picnic at Station 1
lots of delicious foot, everyone brought a dish to pass.

 

July 1987
Minoa parade, pictures

 

July 2nd  -  4th, 1987
4th of July Parade, new pictures

 

August 1987
Clay Marsh brush fire
pictures

 

August 8th, 1987
Herald Journal
Ladder hits powerline, roofer dies
Continued from Page Al "They were coming down the ladder and I guess one-of them slipped," said Travis Bellinger of 21-8 Plantation Blvd., Clay. "The ladder fell backwards and hit the wire." While Bellinger rushed home to tell his parents to call rescue workers, another neighbor who was driving by tried to help the injured men- Linda Yellin, 42, of 6 Graham Court, Clay, said she was returning from the grocery store.when she saw the ladder fall into the electric line, sending sparks into the air. She said the large aluminum ladder, which had been extended to the top of the two-story building, landed on top of two of the men. '-'I just parked my car and ran over," Yellin said. "Two of the guys were unconscious, and the other was in shock." She ran to her home and telephoned the operator for help. Yellin said she returned with-a bucket of water and towels and tried to revive the men. Yellin said she knew how to check for vital signs and administer cardiopulmonary resuscitation because she worked, as an X-ray technician at St. Joseph's Hospital Health Center for six years- She said her daughter's friend, Jennifer Dantuono, 16, of Apartment H-3, Spruce Tree Circle, Liverpool, was passing the apartment building in another car and got out to administer CPR to Vault. Meanwhile, Yellin tried to help Sherlock and Keeler until rescue workers from the Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department arrived. She said Keeler, who was walking around, appeared to be in shock. "He was moving like he was kind of delirious," Yellin said. "We took his shoes and socks off. and there were burns on his feet." Yellin said Moyers Corners firefighters were able to revive Sherlock. Vault never regained consciousness. Clay police said. He was pronounced^ dead on arrival at St. Joseph's Hospital Health Center. Clay Police Capt_ Thomas Bottar said the roofers were employed by Valley Home Improvement Co. Company officials could not be reached for comment. Bottar said the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration will probably be called in to investigate the accident.  Evelyn Titch, the rental agent for the apartments, said the men had been doing roof work on several buildings in the complex. The power line struck by the ladder is a. primary line that carries 13,200 volts of electricity to the apartment complex, said Niagara Mohawk Power Corp-, spokesman Frank Duesel. The voltage is "stepped down" by transformers within the complex. Duesel said the line, several feet above the roof of the building, was installed at a standard height. The line was not broken in the accident, and service continued uninterrupted to the area. 

 

August 9th, 1987
Herald American
One killed, 5 hurt in Clay crash
THE ACCIDENToccurred north of Liverpool on Oswego Road (Route 57) about midway between the Liverpool By-Pass and Long Branch Road, in front of the Kwik Fill service station and Public Storage rental business. The car driven by Walker was leaving the station when it was struck broadside by the northbound car driven by Trusewicz, Bottar said. Bottar speculated that the cars collided in the northbound driving lane of the five-lane highway. Bottar said he did not know how fast either car was traveling, but noted the area is a 45-mph zone. An attendant at the gas station just before the accident. "He and his son came in," said the shaken attendant. "He paid for the gas. then said he felt lucky so he bought two (instant) lottery tickets. He won S2 on one so he bought two more. He didn't win anything on those, and he left. I think that's what upsets me the most- He thought it was his lucky day and it wasn't." THE ATTENDANTsaid as Walker's car left the station, she heard brakes screech. She said she saw Trucewicz's car skid about 100 feet before it collided with the Walker car. She called the Clay police and said rescuers arrived in about two minutes. Gary Fix of Hummingbird Path. was driving southbound and came upon the accident seconds after it happened. Fix was one of several passers-by who stopped to help. "The driver of the blue car (Trucewicz) was lying on the road." Fix said. Walker "came out of the passenger's side of his car. He kept wanting to get up and I kept holding  him down. He wanted to know if everyone was alive in his car, and I told him that everyone was breathing." THE ENTIRE driver's side of the Walker car was crushed halfway to the other side- Fix said Cheryl Walker was twisted and slumped over the wheel. "She didn't look too good." He said. "Her mouth kept opening and closing." Fix said another passer-by helped Michael Walker Jr. out of the car. "He was shaking and had a few cuts but seemed OK," Fix said. Eric Walker, who was pinned in the rear seat of the Spectrum, was crying, while Kimble, also in the rear seat, was breathing, but not moving or making a sound. Fix said. RESCUERS ARRIVED quickly and worked feverishly to aid the victims- Cheryl Walker and Michael Jr. were evacuated by helicopter. Eric Walker "was pinned between the seats," said Moyers Corners Battalion Chief George Race. "He had severe leg injuries but was conscious and talking. "More than a dozen rescue workers were constantly around the car as they tried to keep Eric stable while freeing him from the twisted wreckage. The rescuers cut the roof from the car which allowed them better access to the boy. They then freed his legs by prying apart the collapsed interior. Three ambulances from Moyers Corners Fire Department and two each from Eastern Ambulance and the Liverpool Fire Department were at the scene. Close to 200 people gathered around the accident scene and watched as victims were aided and police investigated. Traffic was halted for 3 hours between the Liverpool By-Pass and the area of Long Branch Road and John Glenn Boulevard. 

 

August 12th, 1987
Herald Journal
Mark Weiner
A tragic weekend ends with praise for Moyers Corners Volunteers
If you've never seen Moyers Corners firefighters, rescue and ambulance workers in action, a quick glimpse of the weekend news reports should give you an idea of how valuable the volunteer force is to Clay residents. On Friday, Moyers Corners volunteers helped save the lives of two roofers after their aluminum ladder struck an overhead power line at the Brookwood Village apartment complex on Grampian Road. A third roofer was electrocuted in the accident. But it was the teamwork of the Moyers Corners crews that helped revive one roofer who was unconscious at the scene.

 

The next day, six people were injured in a two-car crash on Route 57 near Hiawatha Plaza. Witnesses said Moyers Corners volunteers were at the scene within five minutes and quickly decided which victims a matter of a few more minutes, five of the injured were being rushed to Syracuse hospitals. And over the next half hour, rescuers worked feverishly to free the sixth victim, a 7-year-old boy, whowas trapped in the back seat of a car. Two of the injured later died, but it wasn't because of a lack of effort from the rescue and ambulance workers. It's rare that such tragedies strike back-to-back in Clay. But when they do occur, it is reassuring to know that Moyers Corners crews are standing by.

 

August 12th, 1987
Passers-by help save lives of 2
Roofer dies as ladder strikes a power line
Post Standard
By Mark Weiner
A Syracuse roofer was electrocuted and a passing motoris and 16-year-old girl helped save the lives of two others Friday after an aluminum ladder fell onto a 13,200 volt power line in Clay. Daniel Vault, 32 of 376 W. Matson Ave. was killed in the 2:30 p.m. accident at the Brookwodd Village Apartments on Grampian Road. Police and witnesses said two men were on the ladder and a third was holding the bottom when it tipped back and touched the line. Volunteer emergency workers from Moyers Corners revived one of the victims, Steven Sherlock, 28, of 1659 W. Colvin St., after his heart stopped. He was in critical condition at University Hospital where he was taken by Onondaga County Sheriff’s Department helicopter. Richard Keeler, 32, of 4322 S. Salina Street, who was on the ground holding the ladder, was in good condition Friday night at Community General Hospital with severe burns to his feet. Keeler was sent flying several feet by the jolt, according to neighbors who witnessed the accident. A 10-year-old boy riding his bike in front of the two-story apartment building at 35 Grampian Road said he saw the accident happen

 

 pictures

 

August 19th, 1987
Herald Journal
Police say disoriented man set trailer afire
Debra Adams
An elderly, disoriented man set a fire early today that destroyed his home at the Casual Estates Mobile Home Park in the town of Clay, police said- Clay Police Capt Thomas Bottar said 67-year-old Walter A. Drengel was taken to the Veterans Administration Hospital, where he was being treated for smoke inhalation. Bottar said police had talked to the man shortly before the blaze broke out in the mobile home at 4809 Amersham Court and that the man feared someone was trying to injure him. Less than an hour later, Drengel lit a propane torch inside the trailer and ignited an enclosed porch on the side of the trailer, he said. Bottar said police were called to the mobile home park at about 11:20 p.m. Tuesday regarding a noise complaint but found no sign of a disturbance. They returned to the area at 11:43 p.m. when they received a second complaint, Bottar said. Police said their investigationled them to Drengel's where the man told police "he feared that someone in the trailer , park was out to get him. Police had left Drengel's home' but were still in the trailer park when they heard a smoke alarm - go off at 12:43 a-m- and officer. re-entered the trailer to pull lheman from the burning structure. Firefighter George Race of the Moyers Corners Fire Department said the mobile home was ruined. "It was basically totaled," Race said of the trailer. "Once you do damage like that you don't replace it. Smoke and water damage was extensive." He said flames destroyed the porch. Fire spread about 10 feet into the trailer.

 

August 25th, 1987
TWO CYCLISTS DIE IN CRASHES SEPARATE CRASHES KILL CLAY BOY AND SYRACUSE MAN
Herald-Journal
By Debra Adams
At about 10 p.m., Paul J. Raymond, 16, of 3117 Berkley Court, was riding westbound on Wetzel Road when he rode through a red light and was struck by a station wagon, sheriff's deputies said.   Daniel P. Tassone, 23, of Yacht Club Drive, Clay, was driving the station wagon south on Morgan Road. He drove through the green light and collided with Raymond, deputies said.  Raymond was thrown from his 10-speed bicycle and landed in a drainage ditch about 30 feet away. The bike landed about 60 feet farther south.  He was apparently on his way home at the time of the accident. Raymond would have entered the 10th grade at Liverpool High School next month, said Daniel D'Agostino, House IV principal at the high school. Raymond was a member of the school's Junior Air Force ROTC program, D'Agostino said. Raymond, who suffered multiple injuries, was treated by the Moyers Corners rescue squad. He was flown by helicopter to University Hospital were he was pronounced dead at 10:45 p.m., said Bob Burns, spokesperson for the Onondaga County Sheriff's Department . No evidence of alcohol was found in connection with either of the accidents. No tickets were issued.

 

September 1987
Accident involving MCFD A2
pictures

 

September 9th, 1987
Herald Journal
Mark Weiner
The emergency is simulated, but the fire is real in Moyers Corners
Don't be alarmed if you see a large barn fire raging near Moyers Corners in Clay tomorrow night- The fire department already knows about it. In fact, the Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department plans to set the blaze in an old barn on the west side of Route 57, just south of Route 31. Rick Chicallo, a Moyers Corners firefighter, said it's all part of "a scheduled training session for the department. The drill is expected to begin at 7 p.m. Traffic at the busy intersection is not expected to be disrupted by the fire. Eventually, the undeveloped southwestside of Moyers Corners surrounding the barn will be occupied by the $14.6 million Kimbrook Shopping Center. Residents of the Kimbrook townhomes behind the site have protested against the center, saying its design would be disruptive to their neighborhood. They've asked the developer to change plans for the shopping center, allowing for a larger buffer zone between the homes and the shopping center. The Clay Planning Board is expected to receive a revised design plan at its Sept, 23 meeting. 

 

September 16, 1987
Herald-Journal
Richard Crisp
Over the past year, the Moyers Corners Fire Department, as have all the neighboring departments, ran an extensive recruitment campaign to help fill the ranks in the medical rescue squad. A number of excellent volunteers were recruited and are now undergoing extensive training in the field of emergency medicine. However, the drive fell short of the expectations. So for now, the current active members are often doing double duty to insure that this essential ambulance service is maintained at the high level of efficiency to expect and deserves. Unfortunately, last year's Ambulance Fund Drive, too fell short of its expectations. The Moyers Corners Medical Rescue Squad needs a 100% commitment from this community during the September October 1987 fund drive. Your donation is needed and will be greatly appreciated by the Moyers Corners Fire Department and those who use its services

 

September 30th, 1987
Herald Journal
Man dies after load of lumber pins him
Gary Gerew
A 59-year-old Syracuse man was killed Tuesday after lumber he was helping 10 unload from a tractor trailer shifted and pinned him against the wall of a Clay lumber company. Clay police said. Robert EL Dieferibacher of Furman St. was critically injured in the 10:05 a.m. accident at Gerrity Lumber Co., 7707 He.iry Clay Blvd. He was taken by Moyers Corners Ambulance to University Hospital in Syracuse, where he died a short time later, police said. An autopsy was expected to be performed today. Investigators from the federal Occupational Saftey and Health Administration also will probe the accident. Robert Apgar, the lumber company's manager, said it still isn't known what caused the wood to shift and fall against Diefenbacher. "I don't know anything more than I knew yesterday," Apgar said. "What caused it to happen may be one of those things that no one will ever know." Apgar said Diefenbacher, who had worked for the company since 1969, was alone inside the trailer while other workers operated a forklift to lift sheets of cedar siding out. The siding was banded together, Apgar said, and about 300 pieces were in the pile that slipped on the forklift and pinned Diefenbacher against the trailer. Other workers immediately lifted the wood away to free Gerrity and began attempts to revive him before ambulance crews from the Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department arrived, Apgar said. Apgar said the three employees who had been working with Diefenbacher have been given the rest of the week off, "because they were pretty upset by what happened." "He was a real nice guy — a 'Papa figure' for the guys here," Apgar said.

 

October 7th, 1987
Herald Journal
By Mark Weiner
If you're looking for something to do this weekend, you may want to take the family to the Moyers Corners Fire Department on Sunday afternoon.  Department members will be demonstrating fire and personal safety techniques at an open house from 1 to 5 p.m. at Fire Station 1, just north of the intersection of routes 57 and 31.  It's a chance to meet the dedicated volunteers who provide the Clay area with emergency medical and fire services.  And if you've been following the headlines lately, you know the department could use all the new members it can get.  For those people who might consider serving as a volunteer firefighter, emergency medical technician or paramedic, it's a good chance to ask some questions to those people who are serving the community every day.  Members of the department will be at the open house to answer any questions about the job.

 

October 17th, 1987
Harvest Dinner at Station 1

 

October 30th, 1987 – Man Down – Joe Jeffski
Herald Journal
Janetta M. Hammock
Liverpool apt. fire sends 27 into cold
Tom and Sandy Strauss were looking forward to this weekend". It was a weekend the apartment renters were to move into a home on Route 31 in Clay. But a morning fire swept through their apartment building — the Glengarnock building in Brookwood apartment complex off Morgan Road near the village of Liverpool. Now they are unsure if they will have anything to move to their new home. The fire, which started about 3ilO a.m. today, caused major damage to the eight apartments in the building, said Moyers Corners Deputy Chief Stephen Wisely. About 27 people lived in the building, he said. "Damages are unquestionably extensive," he said. The fire appears to have started in the basement, Wisely said. He" said firefighters should know the cause late today- No major injuries were reported. One resident was treated for smoke inhalation, Wisely said. Moyers Corner firefighter Joseph Jefski was on the first floor and fell to the "basement. He suffered a dislocated shoulder and was treated at St. Joseph's Hospital and Health Center and released, Wisely said. FIREFIGHTERS BATTLED the blaze for about four hours.

 

 Firefighters from Moyers Corners, Liverpool, North Syracuse, Lyncourt and Phoenix were on the .scene. The Oswego County Air Crusade and the Red Cross were also at the site. The building has a garage and storage space in the basement. This made the fire difficult to put out, Wisely said. "We had a considerable amount of manpower," he said. "Because of the construction of the building, the fire traveled vertically and then horizontally. We didn't make a lot of headway immediately. "The contents have received extensive damage. There’s a couple of feet of water in the basement and certainly the cars (parked near the building) won't be in pretty good shape." Strauss is worried about damage to his 1987 Mazda pickup truck and a 1979 Datsun truck. He said he was also worried about furniture in his two-bedroom apartment. The couple, who were married a little more than a year ago, had lived in the apartment for a year. They had moved most of the furniture out of the kitchen but not out of the other rooms. They did not have renters insurance. "We're out cold," he said. "We're probably going to be in debt." Wisely said residents should be able to go into their apartments later today. CONNIE WILMER was one of the people who alerted residents. "I heard a smoke detector go off and got up," she said, with tears in her eyes. Her boyfriend got up and, when he opened the door, saw smoke, she said. The two alerted residents. She has some renters insurance but not much, she said. "It will cover a small portion," she said, fighting back tears. "My furniture — it's not mine anymore. You work so hard. You lose everything." Red Cross representatives talked to residents, making plans to get them food, clothing and shelter. Wilmer said she had not talked to them yet and didn't know if she would.  "I just hurt," she said. "That's all, I just hurt."

 

Chet Fritz: During the famous "Building 28" fire a number of years ago in the Avon Parkway area during which Steve Wisely was in charge then FF Joe Jefski and possibly Eddie Stevens, EJ's father, went through the floor into the cellar where they parked cars. George Race, Ron Jennings and probably others whom I can't name saw them fall thru the floor. At first they thought it was a refrigerator coming into the basement but soon realized they were FF's.Race and Jennings were operating with a 21/2" line and got them out.Jefski sustained a broken clavicle 

 

October 31st, 1987 
Herald Journal
Hart Seely
The dreaded ‘Man down!’ call – Clay apartment blaze gives firefighters a real scare
Eary Friday morning, Joe Jefski and about 39 other Moyers Corners firefighters crawled into the full blown inferno that had been the Glengarnock apartment building. They sought bodies.  On hands and knees, Jefski pushed a water hose into the lobby. Down the hall. Feeling the wall like a blind man, he crept into apartment No. 4. "I saw a flame. I knocked it down... Then I felt my hand go through the floor. And I shouted. 'Hooooooole' Then Jefski, a 39-year-old father of four, was falling...While families in the 15-apartment

 

building salvaged what they could — record albums, books or clothes — and while investigators probed the wreckage for a cause. Jefski's near-tragedy Friday cast a presence on the cleanup as strong as the odors of smoke. IT WASthe world's lousiest feeling," said Deputy Chief Stephen Wisely, of the "Man down!'' call that roared through the building. "I guess number one is if it's you that goes into the hole. But sometimes it's even worse for everybody near you. It's something you just don't want to hear." The story had a happy ending. Jefski was treated and released at SL Joseph's Hospital and Health Center for a broken shoulder. He was the lone casualty of a blaze so dangerous that ambulances throughout the area were called to the scene. The fire destroyed the three story Galloway Drive structure within Brookwood Apartments, a 300-unit complex off Morgan Road in the town of Clay. The complex was formerly known as Village Highlands and Hollyrood Apartments. The blaze left eight families homeless, three without insurance, according to the Onondaga County Chapter of the American Red Cross. Damage estimates were taken in three apartments Friday. Five others were viewed too unsafe to enter. The building itself was charred and gutted from within. Asked if it could ever be restored, Brookwood manager Michael Barone said simply, "I don't know.'' No overall dollar amount has been assigned to the loss. New carpets and fixtures had been installed at the 22-year-old building only the day before the fire. Several of its vacant units were to be filled this weekend, Barone said. ONONDAGA COUNTYfire investigators said it may take days ,to learn what caused the fire-Heavy equipment will be used to either knock down or immobilize a basement wall before entering the  sub-ground area where they say it began, fire investigator Bernie English said.

 

Several nearby residents reported hearing explosions earl in the morning. "It sounded like three shotgun shells," said Ken Howard, who lives across the street in another apartment. "All the sudden you could see a puff of white smoke come up (from the roof). You could I tell it was from that building." English said other people reported the noise. But it's not clear whether it was sounds of a fire starting or one growing out of control. Several young couples Friday were allowed to re-enter parts of the building and remove personal belongings. "I lost a lot," said one man, carrying clothes to a car. 'I lost a lot." And then there was Jefski. HIS I shoulder was broken upon impact, when he landed or, the basement floor- He had been one of the first firefighters to arrive. In such situation the priority is to make sure everyone is out of the building. Moyers Corner Fire Chief Chet Fritz said. At various times, up to 50 men were in the burning building Friday, Fritz said. They used about 150 tanks of compressed air — so much of it that two other fire departments were called just to furnish more compressed air, said Deputy Chief Stephen Wisely.  Jefski was on a team of firefighters pushing the hose into the building. Five feet behind him were others, including Chief Fritz. "We knew that it (the floor) had gone elsewhere." Fritz said Friday, standing over the 15-foot wide crevice that sucked-m Jefski. "We knew it could be going nearby... Before I could get pivoted, they were in... and she breaks. I said, "We got a guy down!' Jefski curled up and waited for the blow. "I didn't know when I was gonna hit," the firefighter said. "That's the worst feeling — not knowing when you're gonna hit." He landed about 8 feet below and just missed landing on a motorcycle. His shoulder burst into pain; Jefski said he figured it was a pulled muscle. His air mask had been knocked off. He was groggy and didn't know where he was. But that didn't last long. "When I saw the flames, that's what really brought me back," Jefski said. Then he saw the light from another firefighter. Jefski had fallen into the path of another team that was pouring water into the fire. UPSTAIRS, FRITZ said he had screamed louder "than he is known to" when Jefski went into the hole. "Then they said (through the radio). 'We got him.'': The chief said Friday, looking into the hole. "It was music to my ears." Jefski Friday was amazed with the reaction of people. "When I got but, they treated me like a king." he said, laughing. "You would have thought I was the King of Siam."

 

December 2nd, 1987
Another Exhibit Aids Rescue Squad
Herald-Journal
Some aspiring young artists from C.W. Baker High School in Baldwinsville will get a chance to put their work on public display this month at the Baldwinsville Public Library. Members of the Future Artists club will exhibit drawings, paintings and ceramics work throughout the month at the library, 43 Oswego St., Baldwinsville. Students who belong to Future Artists are considering careers in art. Another art exhibit is to open this weekend in the northern suburbs, but in this case you'll have a chance to take home the items on display. It's the fifth annual ``Country Christmas Craft Show'' to benefit the Moyers Corners Fire Department . This year's show is scheduled to run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday at Moyers Corners Fire Station 1 at routes 57 and 31. More than 80 artists have been invited to show their wares. Organizers expect a large assortment of hand-crafted and homemade items available for sale. Proceeds are donated to the department's volunteer Medical Rescue Squad. There is no admission charge. And if you're looking to do a full day's worth of Christmas shopping at the show, you can buy a lunch at the station.

 

 

 

1988

 

Chief Chet Fritz
 First Deputy Chief: Ken Brand Jr.
Second Deputy Chief Steve Wisely
Battalion 1 Chief Bud Neuman
Battalion 2 Chief George Race
Battalion 3 Chief Greg Tiner
Station 1 Captain Greg Shaffer
Station 2 Captains Ron Turiello, Chris Naum
Station 3 Captains John Perkins, Tim Chura 
Station 1 Lieutenants: Steve Rubacky, Kevin Wilcox, George Gobin, Bill Henry
Station 2 Lieutenants: Ron Jennings, Ken Filow, Don Mace, Geoff Maes
Station 3 Lieutenants: Dan Bartholf, Frank Houde, Tim DeRuyscher, Kevin Wisely

 

Executive Board
 President Bob Michelson
Vice President Mike App 
Secretary Colin Bailey, Assistant Secretary Mike LeFebvre 
Treasurer Jim Balla, Assistant Treasurers Steve McGraw, Gary Johnson

 

Fire Police:  Captain Bob Swahn 
 Lieutenants: Ken Brand Sr., Dick Kyle, Tom Olsweski

 

Ambulance Admins: Administrator Linda Foster, 1st Assistant Sharon Moynihan, 2nd Assistant Susan Derbyshire, 3rd Assistant Jim Michel

 

Auxiliary: President Rosemary Morgan, Vice President Debbie Neuman, Recording Secretary Cindy Houde,  Corresponding Secretary Linda Gobin, Treasurer Sue Davison, Chaplain Carolyn Funnel Woods

 

Scholarship Winners: Diana Davidson, Theresa Olszewski, Mike Zaferakis

 

Installation Banquet pictures

 

January 19th, 1988
Herald Journal
John Doherty
Volunteer ambulance crews ask county for professional help
Onondaga County are asking county legislators to help them relieve staffing shortages they say could lead to disaster.  Representatives of the Liverpool, Moyers Corners and North Area Volunteer Ambulance corps met Monday with legislators and the county's Ambulance Advisory Board. “We need to have someone fill the holes in the schedule," said Linda Foster of the Moyers Corners squad. "We have trouble in the early morning hours, from 6 to 9,  and during shift change in the afternoon, from 3 to 6." We would like the county Legislature to appropriate funds to hire medical technicians to fill the gaps in the volunteer schedules. "We want to provide the best patient care possible," Foster said. According to national standards, an ambulance crew should take no more than eight minutes to respond to a call. "Sometimes, with a district with a geography like mine, you'll have to wait more than eight minutes," Foster said. While legislators said they are sympathetic to the volunteers' plight, they said it was not solely a county problem. "Every town supervisor has an obligation to provide for the public safety of their township," said Rep. Charles Durham, R-Clay, chairman of the Legislature's Public Safety Committee. Durham said town boards should consider providing matching money if the Legislature allocates money to hire ambulance personnel. Karen Brantis, chairwoman of the ambulance advisory group, said staffing problems plague nearly every volunteer ambulance group in the county, but the problem is more apparent in the northern districts because of the large number of ambulance calls they receive. Last year the northern districts received about 7,000 ambulance calls.

 

 If a solution cannot be found, the volunteers said, professional ambulance services may move in. They fear if that happens, it may result in the demise of the volunteer corps. "If a commercial service goes into our district you're going to lose the volunteer system in a matter of a few years," Foster said. The legislators agreed that a temporary solution would have to be arrived at soon. "If you're going to put a county employee there, how's a volunteer going to feel sitting next to a paid person?" asked Rep. William Sanford, R-Sailna, Legislature chairman.

 

"We've got to have some paid person to fill the hole. I don't think you're going to see the volunteers slip away," Foster responded The legislators asked that representatives of all the county's volunteer ambulance groups meet to discuss the problem. There are 24 volunteer ambulance groups operating in Onondaga County including! 19 groups sponsored by fire departments' and five ambulance corps. -  "These things are going to take time, and we don't have aii that time." Foster said, adding that a solution should be arrived at by the end of February. Last fall ambulance technicians were hired by the Eastern Area Volunteer; Emergency Services to fill schedule gaps. "When they're not answering calls they're maintaining equipment," said Jim Williamson, EAVES director.  EAVES pays its workers S5 an hour.

 

January 21st, 1988
Red Cross Opens Training Center To Improve Odds of Saving Lives
The Post-Standard
AS A VOLUNTEER for the Liverpool Fire Department's ambulance squad, Henry James has answered calls involving 13 severe heart attacks -- patients who had no pulse and were not breathing. Of the 13, volunteers could only save two.  They had received cardiopulmonary resuscitation before crews arrived on the scene. The other 11 had not.  Volunteers like James and Red Cross spokeswoman Jana Telfer believe the only way to improve the odds is to train more people in CPR and other lifesaving techniques.  A new Red Cross training site in North Syracuse will help them do that. The Syracuse and Onondaga County Chapter of the American Red Cross has opened its first satellite CPR and first-aid training site at the North Syracuse community center on South Bay Road. It is the first Red Cross training site outside the city of Syracuse, Telfer said. She said the Red Cross opened its first satellite center in the northern suburbs because that is the fastest growing area in Onondaga County and because a large percentage of Red Cross volunteers live in Cicero, North Syracuse, Liverpool and Clay. It is essential that people who are not trained in CPR and other lifesaving techniques receive training because statistics prove that the faster a patient receives emergency care, the better his chances of survival, Telfer said. In Onondaga County it generally takes eight minutes from the time an ambulance is called to the time volunteers arrive at the scene of an emergency, Telfer said. But in the case of a heart attack, eight minutes is too late. ``If you don't do something in the first two minutes,'' Telfer said, ``the chances of survival drop by 50 percent.'' 

 

Moyers Corners Fire Department Administrator Linda Foster agrees. ``I've had years and years of training, $75,000 (worth) of equipment goes with me down the road, and I've worked on hundreds of full (cardiac) arrests,'' she said. ``And I've only had eight saves. In every case someone started CPR before we got there.'' James believes there is an added benefit to training more people in CPR. And that is: People who have basic first-aid skills have less need for ambulances. That is important, given the current shortage of volunteers in some local fire departments and ambulance corps.

 

January 22, 1988
Fire at Dean Leeson’s house.
A burning log rolled out of a fireplace in Clay, starting a blaze that heavily damaged a home at 4959 Pepper Mill Lane, Moyers Corners Battalion chief George Race said. The only people at home when the fire began was the teen-aged some of the homeowner, Dean Leeson. The youth, whose name was not immediately available, was alerted by a smoke alarm and escaped safely from the burning house. The fire was reported at 7:11 p.m. by a neighbor, police said. The home, owned by Moyers Corners Firefighter Dean Leeson, sustained heavy damage. The flames spread to the kitchen and caused smoke damage throughout the house.

 

February 17th, 1988
Scream Alert Neighbor to Fire
Hearld-Journal
About 2:40 a.m., Carol Baird of Lucan Road, Liverpool, heard her neighbor, Thomasine L. D'Agata, 43, screaming.  Across the street, D'Agata's house at 4180 Lucan Road, was on fire . The yellow two-story home was extensively damaged. Drawn to the window by the screams, Baird looked outside and saw D'Agata yelling from the middle of their street. ``My God, that looks like smoke,'' Baird recalled thinking as she told her huband to call the Onondaga County sheriff's department . ``The more awake I got, I saw there must be flames behind it,'' she said. ``I told him to call the Moyers Corners Fire Department , too.'' D'Agata, who appeared extremely distraught, was taken to Crouse Irving Memorial Hospital for observation. The cause of the fire was under investigation. D'Agata lived alone in the house.

 

March 1988
Pictures – Burndown on Morgan Road/Forestbrook…turned to a burndown when winds suddenly changed opposite direction and increase velocity by 20mph 

 

March 18th, 1988
Herald Journal
Crash kills a Galveston’s Manager
Thomas Barbash and Jim Howe
A Mallory man who was a manager at Galveston's restaurant in North Syracuse was killed early Thursday morning when he apparently fell asleep while driving after a night of bowling. Barry J. Young, 24, of the Mallory Trailer Park, north of Central Square, was headed north on Morgan Road, just north of Wetzel Road in the Onondaga County town of Clay at about 2:45 a.m. when the accident occurred. His Ford Escort drifted into the oncoming lane, then onto the shoulder, crashing -head-on into a tree, police said.  Young was pronounced dead at the scene by Erik Mitchell, the Onondaga County medical examiner police said. Young, who was alone in the car, is survived by his wife, Samantha. The couple had no children. Members of the Moyers Corners Fire Department had to use the "jaws of life" cutting tool to free the body, said Clay Police Sgt. John Perkins, who added that Young probably fell asleep at the wheel. Someone living nearby heard the crash and reported it to police. Young didn't appear to have been wearing a seat belt, Perkins said. "I've worked with him about six years and the guy just got along with everyone," said Rich Anderson, a co-worker at Galveston's Texas Restaurant and Bar on Brewerton Road. "We're all taking it real hard. He's not the kind of guy this could have happened to." No cause of death has been established, but an autopsy was scheduled, Perkins said. Anderson, who said Young had been bowling before the accident, described him as hard-working but easygoing, with a rich sense of humor. "People here always joke about 'the door, the door!' He was always getting the hostesses to run over to help someone at the door," he said. Anderson said Galveston's employees hope to take Friday off to pay their respects. "We're going to work it out so we can all be at the calling hours together. We're going to work our schedules around this." Anderson said Young was an enthusiastic bowler and a devoted husband.

 

April 9th, 1988
Planned Fire
The Post-Standard
A practice fire will detour traffic Sunday morning at Routes 57 and 31 in the town of Clay. The Moyers Corners Fire Department said traffic on Route 57 will be maintained during the burning of an old building near the intersection from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cars headed east on 31 will have to take Theodolite Drive to 57. Westbound drivers are asked to go south on 57 to Gaskin Road, which will lead back to 31 beyond the fire.

 

Carl’s Tavern Burndown pictures

 

April 16th, 1988
Herald Journal
Liverpool man named Fire Instructor of the Year
Cheryl Smith
Members of the Moyers Corners Fire Department are being trained by a world-famous fire instructor. When 6,000 fire service professionals from the United States and 10 other countries gathered in Cincinnati in March, they chose Christopher J. Naum of Liverpool as National Fire Instructor of the Year. The 31-year-old battalion captain with the Moyers Corners Fire Department was chosen from a pool of paid and volunteer fire service training specialists. His peers recognized Naum's extensive experience and deep commitment to teaching fire professionals. He is director of the department of fire protection technology at Onondaga Community College and of the Onondaga County Fire and Rescue Institute. He also consults and teaches around the country. A 1980 graduate of Syracuse University, Naum is an architect and fire protection specialist with Maniktala Associates. His favorite local structure is Grouse College on the campus of Syracuse University.  He and his wife, Ann, live on Gull Path in Bayberry, where they are raising two daughters, Lauren, 3, and Ashley, 5 weeks.With all his responsibilities, Naum sleeps about four or five hours a night. "There's no other way to do it. There are only so many hours in a day," he said.  Naum became a firefighter in 1975 at age 19, joining many of his high school friends who already were members of the Moyers Corners department. Nearly all the men in his family are firefighters — including his father-in-law, Donald McCabe, a retired Syracuse Fire Department lieutenant. . "The personal satisfaction of the profession coupled with the  esponsibilities, duties, tradition and relationship to the society," drew Naum to firefighting, he said. "You're dealing with life and death." Naum saw that as recently as Oct. 30, when his department fought a blaze at Brookwood Village on Morgan Road. He was in the basement when a firefighter fell through a hole in the floor above and just missed impaling himself on a piece of equipment. In one-foot visibility, Naum and Lt. Ron Jennings found Joseph Jefski, whose and carried him from the building. Jefski suffered a broken arm. Naum sat in the recreation room of the Moyers Corners fire station a few blocks away from the Brookwood Village complex earlier this week and described the complexity of putting out that fire, which was fought by 150 people from 35 companies. When he's not on duty, Naum often takes his camera to fires he hears about on his scanner, and the walls of the station rec room

 

are decorated with his photographs. He has contributed pictures to the Syracuse Newspapers for eight years. He he uses the photos to illustrate his training sessions. "Somewhere down the line I'd like to publish a book to give a perspective on different aspects of the job, something like a coffee table book," he said. And somewhere down the line Naum plans to reassess his priorities to give him more time to share with his children, perhaps taking them with him for his favorite leisure activities, bicycling and downhill skiing. "Over the years more focus will shift toward family responsibilities," he said.

 

May 4th, 1988
Wetzel Road Fire 

 

May 13th, 1988
Auxiliary 40th Installation Banquet at Three Rivers Inn
Celebrated 40 years of auxiliary service to the fire department. Flower centerpiece was givin to a shut in.
New Group pictures

 

 

 

June 13th, 1988
Herald Journal
One killed in Clay accident
Cheryl Imelda Smith
One woman was killed arid four people were injured today in a  three-car crash at Moyers Corners.
Goldie N. Hoyt,. 43, of Phoenix was declared dead at the scene, said Clay police Sgt. John Perkins. Hoyt was driving south on Route m57 when she ran a red light about 6:45 a.m., Perkins said. Perkins said her car collided with two vehicles traveling on Route 31, an eastbound gray Dodge and a westbound Ford Bronco. After impact, the three vehicles were sandwiched in the eastbound lane of Route 31 facing east. Hoyt was in the driver's seat of the center car, a .gray Ford Escort, and was wearing a seatbelt, Perkins said. The driver's side, of the car was crushed. Rescuers worked-15 minutes to remove a door from the Escort and free Ronald Grouse from the passenger seat, said Battalion Chief Greg Tiner of the Moyers Corners Fire Department- Grouse, whose age and address weren't available, was taken to University Hospital with severe cuts on his right arm, and back and neck pain, Tiner said. - Grouse was .reported in fair condition at the hospital's emergency unit. Two women from the Dodge — Patricia Fraser of City Line Road, Phoenix, and her passenger, Holly Stoughtenger, 24, also of  City Line Road — were transported by Liverpool Ambulance .to Grouse Irving Memorial Hospital with back and neck pain. Both -were later discharged from the hospital.

 

June 14th, 1988
Phoenix Woman Dies in 3-Car Crash
The Post-Standard
By Mike McAndrew
A Phoenix woman was killed Monday when she drove through a red light, causing a three-car crash in Clay that injured her son and three others, police said.  Goldie N. Hoyt, 43, of Clark Lane Trailer Park, was pronounced dead at the scene of the 6:30 a.m. crash at Routes 57 and 31. Clay police said Hoyt was traveling south on Route 57 when she apparently failed to stop at a red light at the Route 31 intersection. Hoyt's car was struck in the driver's side by a westbound car driven by David R. Horning, 49, of 9546 Simpson Road, Brewerton. Hoyt's car then struck an eastbound car being driven by Patricia A. Fraser, 18, of County Line Road, Phoenix, Clay police said.  Police said Hoyt was driving her son to work when the accident occurred. After the crash, Hoyt and her son, Rodney Crouse, 22, of Phoenix, were trapped in their vehicle for about 20 minutes before Moyers Corners Fire Department volunteers could cut open an exit, Clay police said. Crouse was listed in fair condition Monday afternoon at University Hospital with cuts to his arm and head. Hoyt was employed as an assembler at SSAC Inc., a Liverpool manufacturer of electronic components used in timers and flashers, said a company spokeswoman. Horning, Fraser and a passenger in Fraser's car, Holly Stoughtenger, 24, of County Line Road, Phoenix, were treated at area hospitals and were released. Traffic was clogged on Routes 57 and 31 for several hours as a result of the collision, police said.

 

July 1988
Water Tower rope drill, pictures 

 

July 1st – 3rd, 1988
Parade, pictures
Pizza profit was $3776.45. Popcorn and ice cream was $650.45 profit
New Pictures 

 

July 9th, 1988
Three Rivers Vehicle accident, pictures

 

July 12th, 1988
Route 57 Vehicle accident, pictures 

 

July 12th, 1988
Fire Damages Liverpool School
Herald Journal
By Hart Seely
An exhaust pipe from a power generator ignited some roof insulation, and about 200 summer students were evacuated from Liverpool High School for about 45 minutes Monday, school officials said. No one was hurt in the blaze, which was extinguished by firefighters from Moyers Corners and Liverpool. High School Principal Ray Savarese said the district would soon know the extent of the damage. But the building was later ruled by fire officials to be safe. ``One roofing company has already been here,'' Savarese said, about four hours after the fire was extinguished. He said school officials smelled smoke upon entering the building and called the fire department immediately. The cause of the fire may have been a power outage Sunday night, Savarese said. It activated a generator for several hours. Coupled with the high temperatures, the exhaust pipe evidently ignited the insulation. The blaze was put out in about 90 minutes, firefighters said. The fire was confined to the eastern end of the building. The students were at the western end, Savarese said.

 

August 12th, 1988
Boat-Borne Rescue Attempt Fell Short
Herald-Journal
By Cheryl Imelda
The nearest ambulance crew faced an eight-minute detour around a closed bridge to get to the baby found unconscious in a backyard pool in Lysander. It was 10:14 a.m. Thursday. Eleven-month-old Mary Margaret Aluzzo of 502 Cayuga St., Fulton, was dying at 9354 W. River Road, West Phoenix. Across the Oswego River, a painting contractor heard the call for help and ran to his family's 17-foot motorboat moored on the east bank.

 

``I knew the firefighters would have a hard time getting over because of the bridge,'' said 27-year-old Charles Tappan of 919 Main St., Phoenix. Tappan's home anchors the intersection of Church and Main streets, two blocks around the corner from the closed Lock Street bridge. That 74-year-old drawbridge connected motorists in his Oswego County village to West Phoenix on the Onondaga County side of the river until it was closed in May 1987. It also connected the Phoenix Fire Department headquarters to the western part of its district, which spans the river to include a portion of Onondaga County. ``I didn't know what firefighters would be on the other side, and it's seven miles up to Hinmansville for the closest bridge,'' Tappan said of his decision to help. 

A woman living near the boat's anchorage heard the commotion and joined Tappan for the race across the river. As Tappan landed the boat behind the only west bank house near there with a pool, he heard screaming. 
He jumped the backyard fence and sprinted past the pool up the deck stairs into the Kenneth Holland residence. Mary Margaret lay on a kitchen counter, and someone was trying to revive her. Tappan and his neighbor performed cardio-pulmonary resuscitation for about five minutes until an ambulance arrived.  The New York State Police helicopter was 90 minutes away, searching for a drowning victim in Waddington on the St. Lawrence River. So Moyers Corners Ambulance drove Mary Margaret to University Hospital. She arrived at 11:06 a.m. Doctors there pronounced her dead at 11:30 a.m. The woman who went with Tappan said she couldn't bear to talk about the experience of trying to save the baby, and she didn't want to give her name.  Tappan was modest about his effort as well, saying he didn't do it for publicity. ``I'm not a hero, I just went over because I was concerned,'' Tappan said. Mary Margaret's mother, Kathleen Hyde, was ``just hysterical'' after the drowning, state police Lt. Thomas Kedenburg said. After troopers spent several hours trying to glean facts from people at the house, Kedenburg said the preliminary results indicate the death was accidental. Kedenburg, a zone commander for Troop D, said he thinks this is how the tragedy occurred: 
Hyde went to the Holland house to babysit their children, accompanied by her daughter and a couple of other children from Fulton. He estimated that six or seven children were at the house during the drowning. ``The sitter was called to the phone and thought the 13-year-old was watching,'' he said. The teen-ager thought Hyde was supervising the baby. During the mix-up, the baby slipped through an unlatched gate to the pool and tumbled in, Kedenburg said. About 10 minutes elapsed before someone spotted the girl in the water, the lieutenant said. Hyde frantically called Mary Holland, operations manager for Pillsbury, 2904 Belgium Road across from Radisson on Route 31, accounting clerk Robin Fedora said today. Holland was out of the office at a farm show. Office manager Sue Baldock took the call and rushed out the door, telling Holland to call an ambulance. ``I called the troopers to get an ambulance because that number was first on my list,'' Fedora said. 
``The first call was very long because they couldn't find the house at first. I described it exactly. I told them it was the third house up from Lamson Road, brown cedar shingles setting back from the road. ``All I kept thinking of was, `Oh, my God, I'm pregnant myself,' '' Fedora recalled. Fedora isn't sure how just how long it took for rescuers to find the house. Fedora also told troopers where to page Holland at the farm show. The homeowner rushed to the scene to be with her baby-sitter of five years, Fedora said. 

The state police dispatcher called Onondaga County fire control for an ambulance, and sent several police cars to the scene. Fire control contacted Phoenix Fire Department , in whose district the Holland house lies, along with Moyers Corners and Belgium-Cold Springs ambulances. Although Phoenix firefighters were first on the scene, a Moyers Corners crew pulled up at 10:30 a.m. and got Mary Margaret to University Hospital 36 minutes later. Tappan, who'd just happened to stop at home in time to hear the call, heard the radio talk. Since the Lock Street bridge closed last year, there's no quick route across the river to West Phoenix. It takes about eight minutes extra to drive to Hinmansville to cross the Oswego River on Oswego County Route 46. ``We've done it for over a year. Every time we have a call over there it's a problem,'' said First Assistant Chief Dale Hughes of the Phoenix Fire Department . ``It's an inconvenience, and it really bothers us.''  Hughes said emergency crews from nearby Onondaga County departments are also dispatched to Onondaga-side accidents and fires in the Phoenix district while the bridge is out. Sometimes Moyers Corners , Baldwinsville or Belgium-Cold Springs can get to the scene while Phoenix firefighters detour around the closed bridge. ``We've been real lucky with house fires ,'' Hughes said. ``The few we've had over there, we've gotten to and put out. ``I don't believe it would have made any difference in this case,'' Hughes said. Another firefighter said the baby was in full cardiac arrest when ambulance crews arrived. The state Department of Transportation estimates that a new $14 million, two-lane span will open to motorists in December. Pedestrian traffic across the 630-foot, fixed steel bridge began Aug. 3.

 

September 23rd, 1988
Herald Journal
Suspicious fire burns vacant home
John Doherty and Amber Smith
A vacant house burned Thursday night in a suspicious fire that began on the first floor, Moyers Corners Deputy Fire Chief Stephen Wisely said. The blue-framed, two-story house at 7274 Henry Clay Blvd. has been vacant for more than a year and no utilities are hooked up. It is about 2,000'feet from a fire station. "The house is not too secure," Wisely said. "We're relatively sure it has been open for a year or a year-and-a-half." Onondaga County Fire investigators late Thursday were trying to determine the cause of the blaze, reported a little after 9 p.m. Wisely said firefighters searched the house as a matter of routine, even though they believed no one was inside because "even though we think it's unoccupied, we can't take that chance." "We mounted a fairly exaggerated attack, but we did keep in mind that this was unoccuppied," he said.

 

October 1988
As of October 3rd, 1988, the following members are qualified to operate Truck 1: Ken Brand, Mike Chura, Tim Deruyscher, Chet Fritz, Ron Jennings, Scott Krell, Greg Mazza, Frank Houde, John Perkins, Bud Neuman, John Olgren, Steve Rubacky, Greg Shaffer, Paul Tomachesky, Kevin Wilcox, Steve Bressette, Bill Henry, Dick Kyle.

 

October 1988 
Station 1 pictures 

 

October 1988
Burndown of Carl’s Tavern, corner of 31/57
New Pictures
The corner had been sold so the tavern had to go.

 

November 23rd, 1988
Herald Journal
Liverpool woman hurt in three-car crash
Suzanne Getman
A Liverpool woman was hospitalized in critical condition today after an automobile accident in morning rush-hour traffic on Henry Clay Boulevard. Laura Child,, 27, of 4825 Norstar Boulevard, Liverpool, was taken to University Hospital after the three-car crash at 7:20 a.m. in Clay. Moyers Corners rescue workers used the hydraulic "Jaws of Life" tool to remove Child from her 1983 Chevrolet Chevette, which was demolished in the accident. Moyers Corners Battalion Chief Greg Tiner said Child was conscious when rescue workers arrived but lost consciousness as they were trying to free her from the car. Clay police Officer Charles Day said Child was driving from Norstar Boulevard onto Henry Clay Boulevard near Buckley Road. She drove into the northbound lane and her car was struck in the driver's side by a second car. The driver of the second car was Martin Kuznia, 17, of 5775 Albert Road, Brewerton. His black 1984 Dodge Daytona struck Child's car and both vehicles spun several', times in the center of the four-lane highway, witnesses said. Kuznia was treated at Crouse Irving Memorial Hospital and released, according to a nursing supervisor.After striking Child's car, the Daytona hit a third vehicle in the southbound lane which was driven by Frank Boyle, 24, of 4958 Grapewood Lane, Liverpool.  Kuznia's car went into a ditch and Boyle's car landed just off the shoulder of the road. Day said Kuznia's car was heavily damaged. Police said they do not know why the woman pulled into oncoming traffic from the stop sign on Norstar Boulevard. Boyle, who was not injured, said Child "never looked. She just pulled out." Day said no tickets were issued at the scene, but the investigation of the accident is continuing. New York Stale Police and North Area Volunteer Ambulance Corp workers assisted Moyers Corners and Clay police at the accident, which snarled traffic for more than a mile in each direction.

 

 

 

December 12th, 1988
Auxiliary Christmas Banquet held at the Retreat

 

 

 

1989

 

Chief Chet Fritz
 First Deputy Chief: Ken Brand Jr.
Second Deputy Chief Greg Tiner
Battalion 1 Chief Mike Chura
Battalion 2 Chief George Race
Battalion 3 Chief Tim Chura
Station 1 Captains Steve Rubacky, Bill Henry
Station 2 Captains Chris Naum, Ron Turiello
Station 3 Captains John Perkins, Dan Bartholf 
Station 1 Lieutenants: Greg Mazza, Ron Williams, Kevin Wilcox, George Gobin, Paul Tomachesky
Station 2 Lieutenants: Ron Jennings, Ken Filow, Don Mace, Geoff Maes
Station 3 Lieutenants: Frank Houde, Kevin Wisely, Paul Wiedeman, Jerry Hole

 

Executive Board
 President Bob Michelson
Vice President Palmer (Mike) App 
Secretary, Assistant 
Treasurer Mike LeFebvre, Assistant Treasurers Rolf Beckhusen, Geoff Maes

 

Fire Police:  Captain Bob Swahn  Lieutenants: Ken Brand Sr., Dick Kyle, Tom Olsweski

 

Ambulance Admins: Administrator Linda Foster, 1st Assistant Cindy Tomachesky, 2nd Assistant Jim Burton, 3rd Assistant Jerry Streeter

 

Auxiliary: President Linda Gobin, Vice President Cindy Houde, Recording Secretary Joyce Bressette,  Corresponding Carolyn Funnel Woods, Treasurer Sue Davison, Chaplain Betty Hanlon

 

Scholarship Winners: Jill Brand, Linda Neuman

 

New Apparatus:  1989 Truck 1 E-One/Saulsbury, later became Ladder 1

 

1989 Ambulance 3, 1989 Engine 21 Saulsbury/Spartan….1st due until 1997, then became E22

 

1989 thoughts from Chet Fritz: Greg Tiner, then a Deputy Chief came up with the idea of starting a departmental Haz-Mat Team. As a result the MCFD Hazmat team was started which eventually morphed into the Onondaga County Hazmat Team made up of five separate departments. On our watch, we were able to secure a $50,000.00 Member Item Grant from then Assemblyman Mike Bragman. These funds allowed MCFD to purchase the Chevy Kodial whch was housed at Sta.3 until recently replaced by the county purchased vehicle currently housed at MCFD 3. 

 

January 26th, 1989
Moyers Corners Rescue Squad Seeks Community Donations
The Post-Standard
To those who have contributed to the 1989 Moyers Corners Fire Department Med-Rescue Drive, I am personally very grateful. But for those who have not yet taken that opportunity, I would ask that you take a few moments to review the brochure mailed in the fund drive appeal package. Please take just an additional minute and review the pictures that show just what we as volunteers do to serve the community. The persons in the photos are doing what they do, often on a daily basis, to stabilize in the field prior to emergency transport. If you recognize the patient in the photos, then you know the writer of this article. I was not role-playing as this was just as I was five years ago, in need of immediate professional medical care and transport. Moyers Corners Med-Rescue Squad provided that professional care and transport. Please support your Moyers Corners Fire Department Med-Rescue Squad 1989 Fund Drive Appeal. Donations can be sent to Moyers Corners Fire Department , 1989 Fund Drive Appeal, P.O. Box 14, Liverpool 13090. 

 

RICHARD G. CRISP -- EMT Publicity Committee Chairman Moyers Corners Fire Department 

 

February 1st, 1989
Review article.
Anticipating Station 4
A new fire station in 1991 will allow the Moyers Corners Fire Department to better serve the residents of the Route 57 corridor from Wetzel to Soule Road. “Our response time currently is greater than we would like,” explains MCFD President Bob Michelson. “This will quickly become the busiest station we have.” The department has purchased property on Route 57, across from Little Caesers Pizza and will hire an architect within the next few weeks. The station will open in 1991. “We’re really pleased to take this step,” added Michelson. “Now we will have firefighter running across their back yard to get to the station.” The department recently received its new aerial truck and it is in service at station one. Anew pumper will arrive soon and will be housed at station two. The fire department responded to just over 1,000 calls last year while the rescue squad answered almost 2,000. Ambulance administrator Linda Foster said the volunteer staff is often over-worked. “The work burden is great,” she said. The department tries to keep an ambulance manned but faces critical daytime shortages. “The time commitment is tremendous,” says Sharon Moynihan, “and the training requirements are very rigid”. Foster says the department may soon have to hire an administrator. “Some fire departments get tax dollars for ambulance service,” she says, “and people who have to use a commercial ambulance service are billed between $180 and $450 a call.” Foster urges residents in the Moyers Corners area to support their service with a financial donation. The department currently has three stations – one is located at Moyers corners, two at Morgan Road near Buckley Road and three at Henry Clay Boulevard and Vine Street. Each station has a squad of 47 firefighters as well as ambulance personnel. Chief Chester Fritz is assisted by deputies Ken Brand Jr. and Steve Wisely. The department is funded through the Town of Clay but all ambulance funds are trained through an annual drive.

 

February 14th, 1989
House Fire

 

Youtube

 

February 21st, 1989
Fire Destroys Baldwinsville Tavern
Herald-Journal
By Suzanne Getman
Yellow fire hoses criss-crossed two blocks of icy streets in Baldwinsville today as the Riverside Tavern was destroyed by fire for the third time in 30 years.  County fire investigator Paul Johnson said it may be days before investigators sift through the 3-foot-deep rubble to determine how the blaze began at the tavern at 33 E. Water St. Stanton Bell, 20, of Breed Road, Lysander, reported the fire . He was taking a friend home at 2:45 a.m. when he saw flames and smoke. Bell drove three blocks to the Baldwinsville police station and told the dispatcher, who called fire control. ``It was rolling pretty good,'' said Baldwinsville firefighter Roger Leppard, who was the first of 75 firefighters at the scene. ``The whole back end was on fire , and flames were shooting 20 feet in the air.'' Baldwinsville Chief Thomas Perkins radioed ``heavy smoke showing'' at 2:58 a.m. as he drove across the Seneca River bridge, about two blocks from the fire. Three crews of nine men with fire hoses entered the bar at the south side of Lock 24, but flames drove them out. ``Right after they got inside, the fire started rolling over the tops of their heads, and we had to pull them out,'' said Perkins. It was 4:40 a.m. before Perkins allowed firefighters back inside. 

 

Thick, black smoke billowed from the building and surrounded firefighters as they worked. Two Baldwinsville firefighters, Jeff Stevens and Robert Emerson, were treated for smoke inhalation at the scene. The smoke outside was so intense that Stevens and Emerson were given oxygen. It took almost an hour to bring the fire under control as firefighters struggled to keep their footing on the ice-covered street and parking lot. Despite heavy rain, small fires still burned at 5:15 a.m. in the peaks of the roof and around the charred remains of a white satellite ``dish'' at the front of the building. Most of the roof collapsed and the contents of the building were destroyed. Moyers Corners Fire Chief Chet Fritz, one of the first to inspect the damage, said a catfish was still swimming in a tank in the bar. ``The rest of the fish are dead, but he's still hanging on,'' said Fritz. Charlene Abadie, who bought the bar in 1986 with her husband, Robert, arrived at the scene about 4 a.m. The Abadies, who live on Eynsford Road in Liverpool, spent three years renovating the bar. Rock and roll bands and country and western jamborees entertained there on weekends. ``Little by little, we re-did the whole thing,'' said Charlene Abadie as she climbed over bits of burned insulation and jagged chunks of charred wood. ``We did whatever we could whenever we could. We built the stage, put in new bathrooms, added a wood stove, the satellite and the 9-foot television screen,'' said Abadie as she peered through shattered windows. ``I don't know what we'll do now,'' said Abadie, whose husband was driving a tractor trailer bound for Indiana when the blaze broke out. The building and the business are insured, Abadie said, but she doesn't know if they'll rebuild. ``I just don't get it, why now . . . why us?'' 

Longtime Baldwinsville firefighters said this is the third time they've spent a long night outside the walls of the Riverside Tavern. Sometime in the 1960s, they said, the country-and-western bar burned to the ground. It was rebuilt and re-opened about a year afterward, and in 1972, fire again gutted the building. Early radio and television reports listed the kitchen as the source of the latest fire , but it (the kitchen) hasn't been used in three weeks, according to the owner. Investigator Johnson said the fire started along the center of the east wall, and he also ruled out the wood stove and kitchen as a cause. ``I may be there for two days trying to figure this out,'' he said. Moyers Corners Fire Department provided firefighters and two aerial ladder trucks, which poured thousands of gallons of water onto the tavern's roof. Volunteer firefighters, pumpers and firetrucks from Lakeside and Belgium-Cold Spring also were at the scene. Warners Fire Department was on stand-by. 

 

March 27th, 1989
Hibachi may be cause of fire at Clay Home
John Doherty
Herald Journal
Fire extensively damaged a garage today, burning two automobiles and sending smoke and flames to an attached home in Clay. Moyers Corners firefighters were called to the Michael Stauber home, 8230 Elaine Circle, after the ranch-style house caught fire shortly after midnight Although the blaze is still under investigation, fire officials said today the fire may have been sparked by a hibachi that was used Sunday afternoon and taken into the garage that evening Investigators were to return today to probe through the charred interior of the garage "I wouldn't have given you a nickel for the place when we drove up," said Moyers Corners Fire Chief Chet Fritz "We did a good job knocking it down " No one was injured during the fire, but Stauber's pregnant wife, Cynthia, was taken to St Joseph's examined,Fritz said She was in satisfactory condition late this morning, a nursing supervisor said The fire was reported at 12 02 a m. after the sound of the burning garage woke Mrs Stauber, Fritz said The Staubers then fled the house When firefighters arrived they thought a third person was still in inside, but it was later learned that the Staubers were the only ones in the house "There was extensive damage to the garage and smoke damage throughout the house " Fritz said "Two cars in the garage were destroyed I couldn't tell you for sure what kind of cars they were They were just burned." About 40 volunteer firefighters fought the blaze for nearly two hours The last firefighter left the scene at 1 55 a m "There's going to have to be some extensive rehabilitation to the garage, but the house can be lived in again," Fritz said

 

April 1989
Fire hits empty home in Clay
Herald Journal
Firefighters quickly extinguished a blaze that caused extensive damage Thursday to an unoccupied house in Clay. No one was hurt in the fire, which was discovered about 10:30 p.m. at 4663 Wetzel Road. Moyers Corners firefighters found smoke and flames coming from the old, 1-story wood frame building when they arrived. County fire investigators will try to determine the cause of the blaze, which probably started in the basement and spread upward through the first floor to the roof, said Moyers Corners Fire Chief Chet Fritz. There were a few furnishings in the house, but it didn’t look as though anyone lived there, Fritz said. A small piece of paper stuck to the mailbox had the name “T. Schiano – Marcellus St. Motors.” Two junk cars with no license plates were parked in the driveway, and a couple of unread newspapers were in a paper box next to the roadside.

 

April 1989
Scholarship winners Jill Brand and Linda Neuman

 

April 19th, 1989
State Senator Tarky Lombardi, R-Syracuse: $50,000 for Hazmat 3 

 

May 5th, 1989
Fire hits empty home in clay
Herald Journal
Firefighters quickly extinguished a blaze that caused extensive damage Thursday to an unoccupied house in Clay. No one was hurt in the fire, which was discovered about 10:30 p.m. at 4663 Wetzel Road. Moyers Corners firefighters found smoke and flames coming from the old, 1-story wood frame building when they arrived. County fire investigators will try to determine the cause of the blaze, which probably started in the basement and spread upward through the first floor to the roof, said Moyer Corners Fire Chief Chet Fritz. There were a few furnishings in the house, but it didn't look as though anyone lived there, Fritz said. A small piece of paper stuck to the mailbox had the name "T. Schieno — Marcellus St. Motors." Two junk cars with no license plates were parked in the driveway, and a couple of unread newspapers were in a paper box next to the roadside

 

May 5th and 6th , 1989
Rummage Sale. Barb Driscoll chaired the event with $375 profit.

 

May 11th, 1989
The Post Standard
New Officers
Chester Fritz was recently installed as chief of the Moyers Corners Fire Departmen .  Deputy chiefs are Kenneth Brand and Gregory Tiner, and battalion chiefs are Michael Chura, George Race and Patrick Chura.  Other officers are Stephen Rubacky, William Henry, Christopher Naum, Ronald Turiello, John Perkins and Daniel Bartholf, captains; Gregory Mazza, Kevin Wilcox, Ronald Williams, George Gobin, Paul Tomachesky, Ronald Jennings, Donald Mace, Kenneth Filow, Geoffrey Maes, Frank Houde, Kevin Wisely, Paul Wiedeman and Jerold Hole, lieutenants. Executive officers are Robert Michelson, president; Palmer App, vice president; Colin Bailey, secretary; Michael LeFebvre, treasurer; Stephen Wisely, assistant secretary; Steven McGraw and James Balla, assistant treasurers.

 

May 18th, 1989
Emergency Runaround: Transcript Tells Story
Herald-Journal
By Amber Smith
Editor's note: Frank Couillard, 38, of 4399 Plantation Blvd., Liverpool, had a heart attack March 8 and died later that morning.  The Herald-Journal on Wednesday reported the chaos that had ensued that day as Onondaga County Fire Control dispatchers tried to contact a trained ambulance crew. The Herald-Journal filed a Freedom of Information request last Thursday with Onondaga County to obtain tape-recorded conversations about the Couillard emergency. The following transcript of the county dispatcher's telephone conversations with Couillard's wife Ann and various ambulance crews was made available for public review Wednesday after the newspaper got notarized, written permission from Ann Couillard to listen to the tape. 

 

It's 27 seconds past 5:18 a.m. March 8. 

A telephone sounds at Onondaga County Fire Control. Before the first ring stops, one of the two dispatchers on duty grabs the telephone: ``Fire control,'' he answers. 

Ann Couillard's experience with the county's emergency medical services begins: ``Uh, yes. This is where you send an ambulance out?'' 

Couillard's husband Frank had had a heart attack. 

Dispatch: ``Yes.'' 

Couillard: ``OK. You know in Liverpool, in Wellington Manor, 4399 Plantation Blvd., Number 15. I think you should send an ambulance out here, please. It's a security building.'' 

Dispatch: ``What's the problem?'' 

Couillard: ``Well, it's my husband. I don't know. He fell out of bed, and we can't get him to move and get awake. Plus he had been to the hospital emergency room earlier today when I was at work. I don't know. We just can't wake him up.'' 

Dispatch: ``What's the apartment number?'' 

Couillard: ``15.'' 

Dispatch: ``What's the last name there?'' 

Couillard: ``C-O-U-I-L-L-A-R-D.'' 

Dispatch: ``About how old is he?'' 

Couillard: ``38.'' 

Dispatch: ``OK. Give me the phone number.'' 

Couillard: ``457-2593.'' 

Dispatch: ``We'll have somebody over there shortly, OK?'' 

5:19 a.m. Dispatchers set off tones that activate pagers for Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department's ambulance crew. 

Dispatch: ``Moyers Corners ambulance and medics. 4399 Plantation Blvd. in Wellington Manor, Apartment 15. Reported as a possible unconscious person.'' 

5:20 a.m. Dispatchers telephone Clay police. 

Clay Police: ``Town of Clay Police Department. May I help you?'' 

Dispatch: ``Yeah. County Fire.'' 

Clay Police: ``How did I know it was going to be you? I was talking to somebody from the fire department, and I kind of heard what you were putting out, but I didn't copy it all.'' 

Dispatch: ``OK. 4399 Plantation Blvd. Number 15. Reported as a possibly unconscious person. It's a 38-year-old male. She says, `I just can't wake him up for nothin'.' He's breathing. But she just can't wake him up.'' 

Clay Police: ``At least he's breathing. All right, we'll go over. What do you want us to do?'' 

Dispatch: ``Uh, I don't know. See if you can wake him up.'' 

Clay Police: ``Are we going to meet the ambulance there?'' 

Dispatch: ``Probably.'' 

5:23 a.m. A two-person Moyers Corners Ambulance crew responds. 

Moyers Corners Ambulance: ``K-Q-W-3-1-1. Moyers Corners Ambulance Two.'' 

Dispatch: ``Moyers Corners Ambulance Two. 4399 Plantation Blvd., Wellington Manor, Apartment 1-5, Apartment 15, 38-year-old male, unconscious, possibly unconscious. 

MC Ambulance: ``Ten-four. We'll be 10-7 (responding). Can you activate for medics again to meet us at the scene?'' 

Dispatchers set off tones to activate pagers for Moyers Corners paramedics again. 

Dispatch: ``Fire Control to Moyers Corners medics. Need medics to 4399 Plantation Blvd., Wellington Manor, Apartment 15, possible unconscious person. Ambulance is 10-7 (responding) requesting medics meet them at the scene.'' 

5:26 a.m. Moyers Corners Ambulance arrives at the apartment. 

MC Ambulance: ``K-Q-W-3-1-1. Moyers Corners Ambulance Two is 10-15 (at the scene).'' 

Dispatch: ``Ten-four. 10-15 (at the scene) at 5:26.'' 

5:29 a.m. Moyers Corners ambulance crew member -- whose last name is unclear on the tape -- contacts dispatchers, using the Couillard telephone. 

MC Ambulance: ``Fire Control? This is Randy from Moyers Corners Ambulance. We're advising we've got a full arrest (heart attack).'' 

Dispatch: ``You've got a full arrest?'' 

MC Ambulance: ``Yeah.'' 

Dispatch: ``OK. I'll, uh, get you somebody.'' 

5:30 a.m. Dispatchers set off tones and activate pagers for Moyers Corners paramedics for a third time. 

Dispatch: ``Moyers Corners medics. 4399 Plantation Blvd. Apartment 15. Wellington Manor. Ambulance on the scene. Full arrest.'' 

5:30 a.m. Dispatchers set off tones and activate pagers for Liverpool Volunteer Fire Department medics. 

Dispatch: ``Liverpool Ambulance and medics. Mutual aid to Moyers Corners. 4399 Plantation Blvd., Wellington Manor, Apartment 15. Moyers Corners Ambulance is on the scene. Full arrest. 

5:32 a.m. Dispatchers handle a call from West Area Volunteer Emergency Services, WAVES, Ambulance that involves a 71-year-old man with a severe nosebleed. 

5:33 a.m. Dispatchers set off tones and activate pagers for members of Moyers Corners' rescue squad, a different set of people from the ambulance crew. 

Dispatch: ``Moyers Corners Station Two Rescue. Ambulance on the scene of a full arrest, 38 male, full arrest, 4399 Plantation Blvd., 4399 Plantation Blvd., Apartment 15. They do not have medics. Liverpool has been alerted to assist. Requesting manpower assist. Moyers Corners Rescue Two. 

5:35 a.m. A member -- not a paramedic -- of the Liverpool Ambulance arrives at the station and contacts dispatchers by radio. 

Liverpool Ambulance: ``Liverpool Ambulance One.'' 

Dispatchers: ``Liverpool Ambulance One. Moyers Corners has a full arrest. 4399 Plantation Blvd. Wellington Manor. It's Apartment 15. The ambulance is on the scene. They do not have medics, however.'' 

Liverpool Ambulance: ``Ten-four. We're standing by for our medic.'' 

Dispatch: ``Ten-four. Liverpool standing by for a medic. 5:35.'' 

5:36 a.m. Dispatchers call Moyers Corners Ambulance at the scene. 

Dispatch: ``K-Q-W-3-1-1. Moyers Corners Ambulance, if you can copy, Liverpool Ambulance and medics have been alerted. Also, your Station Two Rescue has been alerted for assistance. You should have some help there shortly. 

5:37 a.m. dispatchers handle a call from a woman in North Syracuse whose smoke detector is going off. 

5:38 a.m. One member of the Moyers Corners Rescue is at the station, preparing the rig to roll as soon as the rest of the crew arrives. 

MC Rescue: ``Station Two responded, Rescue. Fire Control, K-Q-P-6-8-0. What was the address at Wellington? 

Dispatch: ``4399 Plantation Blvd., apartment number 15.'' 

MC Rescue: ``Copy.'' 

5:39 a.m. Ann Couillard calls the dispatchers a second time. 

Couillard: ``Hi. We're over here on Wellington Manor. I just called you. The guy told me to tell you to `reactivate the Clay.' 

Dispatch: ``Reactivate the who?'' 

Couillard: ``Just a second, I'm trying to find out for you. . . . Reactivate the rescue.'' 

Dispatch: ``All right. They've already answered me.'' 

Couillard: ``Huh?'' 

Dispatch: ``They already answered me.'' 

Couillard: ``OK. Are they on their way?'' 

Dispatch: ``Yeah. They're going to be on their way shortly, here.'' 

Couillard: ``OK. Liverpool?'' 

Dispatch: ``Yeah. Hold on a second. 

5:39 a.m. the member from Liverpool Ambulance contacts dispatchers by radio. 

Liverpool Ambulance: ``This is Liverpool. The medic that's on our stand-by isn't here, so he apparently is at work now.'' 

Dispatch: ``I'll see if we can send Eastern out that way.'' 

Liverpool: ``OK. Thank you.'' 

5:40 a.m. At the same time the Moyers Corners Rescue reports it is leaving its station en route to the apartment complex, dispatchers are contacting Eastern Paramedics by telephone. 

Eastern Paramedics: ``Hullo.'' 

Dispatch: ``Yeah. Need a rig to Moyers Corners.'' 

Eastern: ``I know.'' 

Dispatch: ``4399 Plantation Blvd.,'' he says and turns to his partner. ``What's that run off of, Henry Clay? Plantation. Does it run off Henry Clay?'' Then he turns his attention back to Eastern: ``It's Wellington Manor Apartments, and it's on a full arrest.'' 

Eastern: ``Wellington Manor?'' 

Dispatch: ``Yeah. 4399 Plantation.'' 

Eastern: ``And what's the apartment number?'' 

Dispatch: ``Apartment 15. . . . Why don't you head out Morgan Road? More than likely they'll be coming in and meet you someplace. I'll get back to you.'' 

Eastern: ``I was going to say, boy, that'd be the best thing.'' 

Dispatch: ``Yeah. I'll see if I can get them.'' 

Eastern: ``Head out Morgan Road?'' 

Dispatch: ``Head toward Liverpool, and we'll probably meet you right out there, if I can get them moving.'' 

Eastern: ``Head out Liverpool?'' 

Dispatch: ``It's a 38 male. Full arrest.'' 

Eastern: ``Yeah. OK.'' 

5:40 a.m. Dispatchers contact the Moyers Corners Rescue squad by radio. 

Dispatch: ``Rescue Two. Unable to get a medic out of your department or Liverpool. I've started Eastern. When you get there, maybe if the ambulance wants to start in, it'd be a quicker meet with Eastern.'' 

MC Rescue: ``We'll let you know when we get there.'' 

5:42 a.m. Moyers Corners Rescue squad reports it is at the apartment. 

MC Rescue: ``Moyers Corners Rescue Two. 10-15 (at the scene). Now, it's Apartment 15?'' 

Dispatch: ``Affirmative. One - five.'' 

5:45 a.m. Liverpool Ambulance contacts dispatchers by radio. 

Liverpool Ambulance: ``Fire control? Liverpool status is `oh and oh.' '' (That means the department has no ambulance in service and no ambulance available for back-up.) 

Dispatch: ``Ten four.'' 

5:52 a.m. Eastern Paramedics dispatchers call fire control dispatchers by telephone. 

Eastern: ``Is the ambulance still on the scene of that. . . . '' 

Dispatch: ``Yeah. They're not moving, for some reason.'' 

Eastern: ``They don't know what to do here? Put 'em on the stretcher and go. . . . OK, we'll give them (Eastern Paramedics crew) directions.'' 

Eastern Paramedics records indicate its ambulance crew was at the apartment at this time. 

5:53 a.m. A news reporter calls the dispatchers asking about a fire in Oran Delphi earlier that morning. 

6:08 a.m. Moyers Corners Rescue Two is leaving the apartment because other help has arrived. 

MC Rescue: ``Moyers Corners Rescue Two. 10-8 (back in service). Need times.'' 

Dispatch: ``5:33, 5:41, 5:42, 10-8, 6:08.'' 

6:08 a.m. Moyers Corners Ambulance at the scene requests to talk to the physician on duty -- called the resource physician -- at University Hospital. 

MC Ambulance: ``Moyers Corners Ambulance Two requesting a med frequency.'' 

Dispatch: ``Moyers Corners, try med four.'' 

MC Ambulance: ``Moyers Corners on four.'' 

Dispatch: ``Fire Control to Moyers Corners on four.'' 

MC Ambulance: ``Go ahead.'' 

Dispatch: ``OK. Put you right in to resource. Fire Control to resource. Come on for Moyers Corners Ambulance.'' 

Resource: ``Go ahead, Moyers Corners.'' 

MC Ambulance: ``Good morning, resource. This is Moyers Corners Ambulance with paramedic Brian Cooley. We have a 38 male, full cardiopulmonary arrest. 

``Our patient's been down approximately 30 minutes at this time. We have an IV (intravenous needle connected to a tube) of D5-W (sugar water), an ET (endotrachial tube that keeps the patient's airway open.) 

``We got him on a monitor showing asystole (no heartbeat is present). Requesting authorization to follow protocol. St. Joe's is our closest facility.'' 

Resource physician: ``Stand by . . . Yeah, Eastern, St. Joe's has a full arrest already. Why don't we take him here?'' 

MC Ambulance: ``Upstate it is. This gentleman is 36 years old. He was seen at Upstate yesterday. Had lactacid (antacid) administered. That's the only history we can obtain at this point in time. 

``Patient was found in full arrest by the Moyers Corners Fire Department . This patient was seen at St. Joe's yesterday. Very unclear history. Thirty-eight male, presents as an obese 38 male. No evidence of trauma. We got an IV D-5W. We got an ET tube. We got on a monitor showing asystole. 

``We'd like to follow protocol for asystole, of epi (epinephrine, which stimulates the heart and raises blood pressure) . . . atropine, (which speeds up the heart) . . . times two for two milligrams, and a bicarb (sodium bicarbonate, or baking soda, which absorbs the acidity that builds in a person who stops breathing). 

``We've been into this for some time. There's pretty pronounced cyanosis (blue discoloration indicating lack of oxygen) about the face, so I think maybe we can do a bicarb right off the start. We'll see you in about 10.'' 

Resource Physician: ``That's affirmative on the asystole and the bicarb. We'll be standing by, and we'll see you in 10.'' 

MC Ambulance: ``Eastern and Moyers Corners clear med four.'' 

6:20 a.m. Moyers Corners Ambulance Two is 10-17 (at the hospital).

 

 

 

May 19th, 1989
Glencrest Drive Fire
Herald Journal
FIRE AFTERMATH. The fire that caused significant damage to a Liverpool home Thursday may have been started by children playing with matches, according to Moyers Corners Deputy Chief Greg Tiner. The blaze broke out at the home of Michael Salvatore, 7529 Glencrest Drive at   12:26 p.m., Tiner said. Salvatore's wife and children, whose names and ages were not available, were home when the fire started, he said. Volunteers from Moyers Corners, Liverpool. North Syracuse and Phoenix were at the scene, according to Onondaga County Fire Control.

 

May 21st, 1989
Tragedy Raises Questions About Medical Volunteers
Syracuse Herald American
By Amber Smith
Nobody tells Onondaga County volunteers in the Emergency Medical Services system what they have to do, or how they have to do it. Nobody sets any minimum standards for the ambulance services they create. Not the state. Not the county. Not the towns or villages. The volunteers themselves decide how good a job they want to do, said Michael Gilbertson, director of the state's Emergency Medical Services Department . If they decide to seek medical training and become certified by the state to practice as basic emergency medical technicians, then there are medical protocols they have to follow. Renewed attention has been focused on volunteer emergency services after news stories last week about Frank Couillard, who died of a heart attack in March. County dispatchers couldn't get paramedics to respond to the Couillard emergency for more than half an hour, but volunteers trained in basic life support arrived early. No laws or regulations -- other than guidelines individual ambulance corps adopt -- say volunteers have to be medically trained. 

Theoretically, a volunteer ambulance service could operate with a beat-up station wagon and 16-year-old driver, Gilbertson said. Nothing that shabby goes on in Onondaga County, said Kathryn Ruscitto, county administrator for health services. ``The system we have in some areas is fine. In other areas, it's a good system but it's overtaxed,'' she said. ``We either have got to get them more help, or change the structure of their system.'' The system today relies heavily on a decreasing number of volunteers. This is recognized by all of the players in the EMS system -- volunteers, fire departments , medical authorities and officials from state, county and local governments. Everyone agrees there's something wrong with an EMS system that keeps a 38-year-old man having a heart attack waiting 32 minutes for a paramedic. That happened March 8, when Couillard, of 4399 Plantation Blvd., Liverpool, fell out of bed and his wife couldn't wake him up. Volunteers from the Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department ambulance, trained in basic life support, arrived at Couillard's apartment in six minutes and did what they could with cardiopulmonary resuscitation and a turkey baster they substituted for the suction equipment they did not have. 

Moyers Corners ' volunteer paramedics, trained in advanced life support, did not respond to help Couillard. Neither did Liverpool Volunteer Fire Department paramedics, who have a mutual aid agreement with Moyers Corners . Eastern Paramedics arrived at Couillard's apartment and assisted the Moyers Corners volunteers all the way to University Hospital -- where Couillard was pronounced dead. Since then, several questions have been raised. What went wrong in Couillard's case? The incident illustrates the shortage of volunteers -- especially volunteers who are trained as paramedics. Tony DiGregorio, interim director of the county Emergency Medical Services Bureau, said incidents like that don't happen every day and that ``our system needs to be patted on the back for a job well-done on an everyday basis.' Could it happen again? Without some changes in the system, which officials say they are already working toward, the problems will persist. Paul Cousins, regional Emergency Medical Services coordinator, said situations where response times could make a difference aren't rare. Was it wrong to use a turkey baster? No, it was actually a smart thing to do. DiGregorio explained, ``EMTs (emergency medical technicians) are taught to improvise and adapt to the situation, that if equipment is not available, to use what is at hand.'' If I have an emergency, who decides which agency will help me? In most cases, county Fire Control dispatchers -- at 425-3333 -- decide based on where callers live. 

Within Syracuse, Eastern is the only option. In some towns and villages -- such as DeWitt, Solvay and Bridgeport -- volunteers from a fire department rescue squad will respond, but Eastern will transport victims to the hospital. In other areas -- such as Clay and the Moyers Corners fire district -- callers will be serviced by the volunteer ambulance from the fire station. In places like North Syracuse and Mattydale, an independent volunteer ambulance service will respond. What's the difference between rescue squads and ambulances? Ambulances transport patients. Rescue squads carry various levels of medical equipment but only transport patients in extreme circumstances. Some rescue squads, as well as some ambulances, can handle only basic life support calls, while others are equipped with cardiac drugs and heart monitors for advanced life support calls. 

What will it cost? The volunteer services don't charge. However, they solicit donations. Will Eastern Paramedics help me if I live outside of the city? Yes, by dialing 471-4141. ``If they want Eastern, we've got to come,'' said Eastern Chief Warren Darby. Eastern is authorized to respond anywhere in the county. They have a ``gentleman's agreement'' to steer clear of the volunteer districts unless a caller specifically asks for them. 
Eastern dispatchers ask callers from outside Syracuse city limits, ``Do you want Eastern, or the closest available ambulance?'' A volunteer ambulance may be closer and quicker. How is Eastern Paramedics different It charges for its services, from $135 to $389, plus $4 per mile if Eastern drives further than 10 miles to the hospital from a victim's address. If Eastern is called to assist a volunteer service, it charges $180. Each of the Eastern ambulances carries at least one paramedic, certified by the state the same way volunteer paramedics are certified. Often, Eastern Paramedics are volunteers in their own communities. The state sets minimum standards for training and equipment in commercial ambulance services. How fast do volunteers respond? 

It depends on the time of day and the way the service is set up. The state doesn't keep average response times for individual agencies, but Gilbertson said Onondaga County -- including the volunteers and Eastern -- averaged six minutes in February. Eighty percent of the calls were answered within 10 minutes or less, and 20 percent were answered in more than 10 minutes. Why not get rid of the volunteers and let Eastern cover the entire county? ``When it is working well, a volunteer system has many pieces of it that are superior,'' said Dr. Phillip Kaplan, a family physician who volunteers on the Manlius Volunteer Fire Department 's ambulance. 
Take, for instance, a car wreck in the Manlius area. Kaplan said some 40 firefighters would show up, along with two staffed ambulances. ``That kind of volunteer availability for `the big one' is much superior to what a paid service can provide,'' he said. Volunteers handle some 21,000 medical calls per year in Onondaga County. Eastern handles about 25,000. Darby said Eastern could handle the increased load, but ``if we had to cover the county, we would need more rigs, more personnel.'' Eastern has about 40 paramedics, who earn about $19,000 as a starting salary. Gary Urquhart, assistant commissioner for community and preventive health, said, ``The volunteers, as far as I'm concerned, are a great resource that should not be neglected.'' The county's Ruscitto pointed out, ``As a community, if we want a paramedic ambulance at any area of the county, there's going to be a cost.'' 

How much training do these volunteers have? It varies. The state sets no requirements. Volunteers who become EMTs have the same amount of training as EMTs who join commercial services. Most of the ambulance services offer additional training for their members. EMTs in commercial services, said Darby of Eastern, often have more experience than the volunteers because they handle more calls for help. What does the training consist of?  There are several progressive levels, and each service has its own minimum requirements. Most of the courses are free, but some involve a deposit that is returned on completion of the course. The courses range from a 40-hour ``first responder,'' which covers cardiopulmonary resuscitation and basic first aid, to a 500-hour paramedic course. It includes drug therapy and surgery called ``cricoid-thyroidectomy'' -- or cutting a hole in the throat to open an airway. Of the ambulance runs in Onondaga County in 1987 -- including volunteers and paid services -- Gilbertson said 62 percent were handled by people who are paramedics, level three EMTs or intermediate EMTs. About 25 percent were handled by people certified as basic emergency medical technicians. The rest were handled by people with training ranging from nothing to a 40-hour ``first-responder'' course. 

Why is there a shortage of volunteers? Mostly because of the time involved in training, and recertification courses every three years. Officials say the shortage isn't as pronounced, right now, on weekends and evenings. The big shortages occur between about 6 a.m. and 6 p.m., Gilbertson said, when many of the volunteers are working. Not only that, county administrator Ruscitto said, volunteers are increasingly put off by the rigid requirements the state sets for recertification. Every three years, the volunteer EMTs have to take refresher courses, which last weeks, and pass state exams in order to keep their EMT licenses. That takes time many are not willing to contribute. What can I do to help? To volunteer, call the county EMS Bureau at 469-6964. Or, take a course in CPR by contacting the Red Cross at 425-1677. How is the county EMS system set up? There are more than 30 ambulance services in the county and a number of services just over the county line that sometimes assist. Most are operated from volunteer fire departments . In addition, each of 57 volunteer fire departments operates rescue squads, with firefighters trained in first aid. The structures of the services are all different, with members reporting to a director. Who's in charge of the EMS system? ``I don't think there is a boss,'' Gilbertson said. Different people or offices are in charge of different aspects of the system.

 

May 22nd, 1989
Auxiliary Installation Banquet held at RFH Hideaway in Phoenix. Barb Brand chaired the event. 

 

May 27th, 1989
Fire Destroys House In Clay
Herald-Journal
A fire destroyed the home of a Clay couple who were out of state on vacation, fire officials said. Randy and Phyllis Webster of 8317 White Cedar Circle were in Pennsylvania Friday as flames ripped through their house.

 

The fire was reported at 6:57 p.m. Firefighters from Moyers Corners Fire Department arrived in eight minutes and found the house engulfed in flames. . "When it was called in we could see the smoke from the station, which is 3l/2 miles away," said Moyers Corners Deputy Chief Kenneth Brand said. "When we got there, flames were blowing out the roof." It took about 40 minutes for firefighters to get the blaze under control. They were still at the house three hours later putting out "hot spots," Brand said. Brand said the fire apparently started in a first floor family room behind a garage of the two-story home. Brand estimated the house, located in the Pinegate South development off Soule Road, was about five years old and worth about $150,000. "She's a total loss," Brand said. One explorer scout firefighter collapsed from heat exhaustion Brand said. Eric Houde was taken by ambulance to Crouse Hospital where he was treated and released.

 

News Interview with Chief Chet Fritz:
“Heavy fire and heavy dark, black smoke when we showed up. Fire was from the back of the garage in the rear of the house, in that area. It had vented through the roof already. It was initially an exterior attack because the place was so charged. We took the windows out and it immediately flashed over, which we knew it was going to do because she was really cookin’. It had been burning for a long time. Nobody was hurt. The second floor stairs came in…this place is really beat up.”

 

May 28th, 1989
Herald Journal
Your guide to area ambulance services
Take your pick:
An ambulance staffed at its station with a dwindling supply of volunteers that asks patients to donate whatever money they can. An ambulance staffed throughout a district with paramedics 24 hours that charges $135 to $389 per trip. An ambulance staffed with volunteers who respond from their homes that charges between $30 to $60 per trip. Actually, you've got 25 or so options — depending on where you are. Renewed attention has been focused on the system and the shortage of volunteers, since the Herald-Journal/Herald American reported about a 38-year old man who had a heart attack and died waiting for paramedic. Frank Couillard, of 4399 Plantation Blvd., lived in the village of Liverpool within the Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire District. Moyers Corners volunteers, trained in basic life support, arrived at the man's apartment within six minutes and did what they could with cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Neither paramedics from Moyers Corners volunteer fire department nor the Liverpool Volunteer Fire Department answered his wife's call for help. Since the story, several questions have been raised about ambulance boundaries. The 57 volunteer fire departments that serve the county outside Syracuse all have rescue squads, which are dispatched on medical emergencies. Like the ambulance services, some are equipped with basic life support and some with advanced life support

 

July 1989
Final Field Days

 

July 7th, 1989
County Awards MCFD $10,000 for a fly car, child care and professional staff. These are a few improvements volunteer crews can afford with grant money awarded Thursday by Onondaga County. Nearly $80,000 approved by county legislators in December was distributed to 10 volunteer fire departments and ambulance corps to improve recruitment, retention and training of volunteers.

 

July 16th, 1989
No Punishment for Paramedics – They Didn’t Answer Dying Man’s Call
Syracuse Herald American
By Amber Smith
The state will not discipline the volunteer paramedics who failed to respond in March when a 38-year-old Liverpool man suffered attack and died waiting for help.  Michael Gilbertson, director of the state emergency medical services bureau, said Saturday that Onondaga County's entire Emergency Medical Services system was to blame for the half-hour delay in getting help to Frank Couillard of 4399 Plantation Blvd. on March 8.  Instead, the state will work with the county to improve its emergency medical system.  Couillard's widow, Ann, was upset with the state's decision.  ``While they're working with their Mickey Mouse system, how many other people are going to lose their lives?'' she asked.  Couillard lived within the Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department district. Two Moyers Corners volunteers trained in basic life support responded to Ann Couillard's call for help when her husband was stricken. But no one trained in the advanced life support techniques. 

None of Moyers Corners five paramedics responded, and the department had no policy to make sure one would be available. Calls to the neighboring Liverpool Volunteer Fire Department also were unanswered. That company has eight paramedics.  Part of the investigation centered on whether the people at the scene wasted time waiting for paramedics to come instead of rushing Couillard to a hospital.  ``They did nothing except assume help was as coming, and it wasn't. You can't blame them for that,'' Gilbertson said in a telephone interview from Albany.  The state's investigation was prompted by Herald-Journal/Herald American articles that included a transcript of conversations between Ann Couillard, county dispatchers and the volunteer rescuers. 

The articles showed that 21 minutes passed from the time of the first call to the time professional paramedics from East Ambulance were summoned. The delay is considered unacceptable because brain death in a heart attack victim begins four to six minutes after collapse. Couillard was pronounced dead at University Hospital more than an hour after he collapsed. Gilbertson has the authority to revoke the licenses that allow emergency personnel to practice. He said investigators interviewed emergency workers and collected reports from all the agencies involved. He completed his review of the investigation and made his decision not to pursue any charges Saturday. Chet Fritz, Moyers Corners ' fire chief, declined comment.  Because of the incident, the state wants to work with the county to improve the EMS system. Gilbertson said improvements could include requirements for volunteers to let dispatchers know a schedule of when they are available. 

Kathryn Ruscitto, county administrator for human services, said volunteer scheduling ``is something we've already addressed. County officials plan to announce the new director of the county EMS bureau at a press conference Tuesday. Bernard Horak, who was the director for three years, resigned in September, partly because of his frustration at the slow pace of improvements.

 

August 1989
Firefighters from Italy visit Moyers Corners FD, pictures 

 

August 10th, 1989
Eugene Gonzales of Clay recently conducted a seminar for Moyers Corners Fire Department officers. The purpose of the seminar, titled ``Interpersonal Dynamics: Key Leadership Skills,'' was to help the officers deal with conflict and more effectively use communication skills. Gonzales is a management consultant and associate professor of business administration at the State University College at Morrisville. 

 

August 13th, 1989
Auxiliary Chicken BBQ. 
273 were served with $888.92 profit. 

 

August 23rd, 1989
Herald Journal
Esther Gross
Fire routs four people from a townhouse in Clay
Fire damaged a townhouse Tuesday in Clay, leaving a family of four homeless. The blaze was reported shortly before 2:30 p.m. at 9 Gardner Court, where Yvonn Grey, 31, lived with her three children. Katishma Grey, 11, was home at the time. She was outside by the time firefighters arrived. Two other children, Kiddada, 14, and Kenyattji, 13, were not at home when the fire started, Clay police said. Flames and smoke were coming out of the second-floor window when firefighters reached the building. Robert Velenage, a Moyers Corners volunteer, was treated at the scene for heat exhaustion, Moyers Corners Battalion Chief Timothy Chura said. Liverpool firefighter Ronald Santocki was treated for minor burns on his neck and back at Crouse Irving Memorial Hospital and released It took firefighters about 10 minutes to bring the blaze under control, Chura said. Fifty volunteers from Moyers Corners, Liverpool, Phoenix and North Syracuse went to the fire. It will be a few days before investigators determine the cause of the blaze, Chura said

 

Pictures

 

September 1989
Vehicle accident, pictures

 

September 5th, 1989
Herald Journal
Rescue squad conducts ‘ambulympics’
Members of the Moyers Corners Fire Department will demonstrate their rescue squad skills Saturday afternoon in the first "ambulympics." Volunteers choose their own teams and spend the day competing against each other for prizes donated by local businesses. The events are designed to incorporate technical knowledge, while promoting fun and teamwork. The competition, which is free and open to the public, will begin at noon at the Clay Central Park off of Wetzel Road. It will be followed by a picnic. The day is patterned after emergency medical services games held in Rochester

 

September 18th, 1989
Fire Hits Warehouse Near B’Ville Brewery
The Post-Standard
Firefighters early this morning were battling a warehouse fire on Route 31 in Baldwinsville, across the street from the Anheuser-Busch brewery, Onondaga County Fire Control reported early Monday morning. At 12:18 a.m., the Moyers Corners Fire Department was sent to the blaze, Fire Control said. Rescue vehicles also were dispatched. Further details were not available early this morning.

 

October 18th, 1989
Ex-Moyers Corners firehouse burns
Herald Journal
Steven Billmyer
Ken Brand Sr. knew something was wrong as soon as he saw the pickup truck struggling through the muddy field toward him. It was a foreman in the town highway shouting: The old Moyers Corners firehouse was on fire. Brand jumped off his bulldozer and rushed to the fire four miles away at the intersection of routes 57 and 31 Brand saw the smoke coming out of the firehouse and all kinds of memories came rushing back to the 72-year-old man who was the department's first fire chief. He remembered the summer of 1948 when Brand and 20 other people built the firehouse, working nights and weekends. They worked from plans sketched out on a wood shingle. It was done by winter. They had noisy square dances on the hardwood floor on the second floor to raise money for the fire department. They used the second-floor for its smokers — men-only parties of card playing, beer drinking and X-rated movie viewing. They called out bingo games on the second-floor. Today, the second floor that saw so much fun is a charred, water-soaked mess with no roof. "It looks like it will have to be torn down, at least the second floor," said Ken Brand Jr., the first deputy chief at Moyers Corners Fire Department, who directed the firefighters Tuesday. He's also the son of Ken Brand Sr. More than 150 firefighters from nine departments responded to the fire call at 10:55 p.m. The fire got into crawl spaces in the old building, forcing the firefighters out, They poured water on the burning building and had the fire out by 2 p.m. Moyers Corners Fire Department, which had moved into a new building across the street in 1974, still owns the old firehouse. The department leased it to Wicker World and several other businesses. The fire could interfere with the department's July 4 field days because the department uses the building's kitchen, the deputy chief said. An inspection of the building should help determine what the department does with the building, he said.

 

News Interview with Ken Brand Jr., First Deputy Chief:
I was one of the first persons on the scene. Heavy smoke condition throughout the whole building. No visible flames at that time. I checked throughout the perimeters, everybody was out. There was only two people in at the time. The whole place was blackened with smoke. We went to try to make an interior attack and the fire had gotten in to the crawlspaces which is basically the whole top of the building. There was no way we could get to it the way it was. It’s an old building, not real old, it’s about a 1948 building. It used to be our firehouse. We are pretty familiar with the building. Back then, all buildings were built about the same way. Balloon construction that starts down at the bottom and goes all the way to the top. Basically what I heard is that the fire started on the main floor, down near the bottom of the floor, and went right up the walls. The people just got out, that was the best thing they could do. Right now we probably have about seven departments here and roughly 150-200 men. As you can see behind me, we will be here awhile. We are on an outside operation just trying to get the fire out now.” 

 

October 18, 1989 – Old firehouse fire
Post Standard
Some of 150 firefighters from nine fire departments contained a blaze that ruined former Moyers Corners fire station at 8478 Route 57, Baldwinsville. The fire was discovered about 10:15 a.m. Tuesday when two employees of wicker world – which along with other businesses rents space in the building from the Moyers Corners fire department – arrived to open shop. They alerted firefighters at the new station, across the street, after smelling smoke and seeing a sofa on fire. One firefighter, who suffered from smoke inhalation, was treated at the scene, officials said.

 

Herald Journal
Blaze strikes former firehouse
Ken Brand Sr. knew something was wrong as soon as he saw the pickup truck struggling through the muddy field toward him. It was a foreman in the town highway shouting: The old Moyers Corners firehouse was on fire. Brand jumped off his bulldozer and rushed to the fire four miles away at the intersection of routes 57 and 31. Brand saw the smoke coming out of the firehouse and all kinds of memories came rushing back to the 72-year-old man who was the department's first fire chief. He remembered the summer of 1948 when Brand and 20 other people built the firehouse, working nights and weekend. They worked from plans sketched out on a wood shingle. It was done by winter. They had noisy square dances on the hardwood floor on the second floor to raise money for the fire department. They used the second-floor for its smokers — men-only par-ties of card playing, beer drinking and X-rated movie viewing. They called out bingo games on the second-floor. Today, the second floor that saw so much fun is a charred, water-soaked mess with no roof. "It looks like it will have to be torn down, at least the second floor," said Ken Brand Jr., the first deputy chief at Moyers Corners Fire Department. Moyers Corners Fire Department, which had moved into a new building across the street in 1974, still owns the old firehouse. 

 

Review
October 18, 1989
Flames wrecked the Wicker World store on Route 57, just north of Route 31, directly across from Moyers Corners firehouse, Tuesday morning. Dense smoke and a steady downpour didn’t make the going any easier for the firemen from 10 companies. Flames eventually erupted through the roof of the 2-story structure. County fire officials, including Dick Beach, said employees called in the alarm about 11 a.m. Units visible were Moyers Corners, Belgium Cold Springs, Baldwinsville, Liverpool, Clay, Phoenix, North Syracuse, Plainville, plus a cascade unit from Oswego County. Also destroyed were the Loose Ends craft shop and Jeanean’s Boutique. The structure used to be the Moyers firehouse, and a shed at the rear reportedly is still used to store firemen’s field days equipment. It apparently escaped damage. 

 

October 21st, 1989
Five Hurt In Convoy Collision
Syracuse Herald-Journal
By Karen D. Stroud
Two military trucks in a convoy skidded out of control on the Thruway Friday. One of them landed on a car and trapped two people inside for more than 30 minutes. No one was seriously injured, state police said. Members of the National Guard's 152nd Engineering Battalion were en route to Fort Drum from Buffalo when the accident occurred.  John D. Brown, 46, a driver in the 20-truck convoy, lost control of his vehicle between Electronics Parkway and Mattydale and went off the right shoulder of the road. Another convoy driver, John J. Benzo, 19, of Buffalo saw what happened and braked. Instead of stopping, Benzo's truck skidded across the median into the oncoming traffic lane and flipped onto a passenger car. Two men were trapped inside for more than 30 minutes. Liverpool and Moyers Corners fire department personnel extricated Wilbert C. Elliot, 32, of Utica and Willie Lee Taylor, 35, of Whitesboro from Elliot's car. Elliot was treated at St. Jeseph'e Hospital Health Center Friday. Taylor was in fair condition at University Hospital. State police zone Sergeant John Praskey said Taylor was treated for a cut in his scalp and an injured wrist. Benzo, Brown and two other guardsmen who were riding with them were treated at St. Joseph's Hospital Health Center and were released. ``The military personnel were traveling in a convoy,'' Praskey said Friday. ``They had split up and were starting to catch up with one another when the accident occurred.'' Praskey said rain and excessive speed contributed to the accident. Benzo was issued a ticket charging him with failure to keep right. Brown was issued a ticket charging him with making an unsafe lane change, Praskey said. 

 

November 19th, 1989
Herald Journal
County cracks down on late ambulances
Amber Smith
Each year for nine years, Betty Parsnow contributed $15 to $20 to Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department. She considered it insurance. Yet. when she needed an ambulance Oct. 2nd, it didn’t come. Parsnow, 65, gave up waiting. Doubling over in pain and bleeding, she had her daughter drive her to Crouse Irving Memorial Hospital. She was released on. a liquid diet with instructions to stay at her daughter's home so she wouldn't be alone.

 

Three days later, she received a card from the Moyers Corners volunteers. They wanted a contribution. They didn't get it. Cases LIKE Parsnow's have prompted Onondaga County officials to crack the whip on volunteer paramedics, telling them they must answer calls within five minutes — or else another ambulance corps will. 

 

The policy that began Nov. 1 did away with the old dispatch procedures of striking a tone on the county’s ambulance radio channel  and waiting, and waiting, and waiting to see if it would be answered. That policy was in effect in March, when a 38-year-old man died from a heart attack in the 32 minutes dispatchers spent trying to round up Moyers Corners volunteer paramedics — who never responded. OFFICIALS SAY that shouldn't happen again. The county's 23 volunteer fire and ambulance corps now are required to keep dispatchers informed of whether a paramedic is available and can be on his way within five minutes. If not, dispatchers automatically send another ambulance service. "If you're going to provide emergency medical services, ideally it would be seven days, 24 hours," said Ronald Hernandez, director of the county’s  Emergency Medical Services Bureau, said of the volunteer agencies. "But if you can't, at least fire control (dispatchers) knows, and they can send mutual aid." ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE made over the county radio frequency every morning and evening, listing which services don't have paramedics available. That helps clear up any confusion, assistant county fire coordinator Dick Beach said. In addition, it may prompt some departments — for reasons of pride — to make sure they have a paramedic on duty, Beach said. If the first week is any measure, the five-minute policy seems to be  working, according to the dispatch cards for advanced life support calls on file at the Onondaga County Fire Control dispatch center on Onondaga Hill 

 

December 11th, 1989
Auxiliary Christmas Banquet at Anthony’s Act II in Bayberry

 

December 12th, 1989
Herald Journal 
Trailer Fire kills Clay girl. Rescue attempt. 
Mom, 5-year old brother escape
A little girl who celebrated her second birthday Saturday died today when her mobile home in the town of Clay was consumed by fire. Courtney Scott was pronounced dead about an hour after fire broke out at 3312 Berkley Court in the Casual Estates trailer park on Route 57. Her mother, Darlene, 24, and her 5-year-old brother, Ryan, escaped. When Moyers Corners firefighters arrived just after 2 a.m., there was heavy smoke coming from the 70 foot trailer, and flames were shooting 30 feet in the air. Firefighters ripped out part of the bedroom wall on one end of the trailer where Courtney Scott was trapped in her crib. They reached in and pulled her through the wall. “By the time we did that, it was too late.” Moyers Corners battalion Chief George Race said. Resuscitation efforts failed, and the girl was pronounced dead at 3:08 a.m. at University Hospital. When firefighters arrived, battalion Chief Mike Chura tried to get inside, but he was driven back by the heat. Chura suffered second degree burns to his legs and arms. He was taken to a hospital where he was treated and released, Race said. 

 

December 20th, 1989
Sharon Moses of Baldwinsville and Scott Whipple of Phoenix were honored by the Central New York Chiefs of Police for their work in saving Henry Mancini of Liverpool from the wreck of his burning 1985 Chevy Chevette in June. Leigh Hunt presented a plaque at a dinner in their honor attended by Mancini and his wife, Cheryl. Moses and Whipple also received a plaque from Clay police and the Moyers Corners Fire Department 

 

December 28th, 1989
Man Felled By A Punch Dies
The Post-Standard
By Mike McAndrew
An Onondaga County grand jury will investigate a one-punch bar fight Wednesday which resulted in the death of a Clay man to determine if the man who threw the punch should be prosecuted, Clay police said. Robert E. ``Butch'' Jeffries Jr., 31, of 8865 Gaskin Road, died an hour after his skull was fractured at 12:35 a.m. when he was hit by Frederick G. Morrissey, 53, of 3119 Berkley Court, Clay. Jeffries struck his head on a slate floor at Richard's Ole Timer after being punched once in the mouth by Morrissey, said Owen Honors, Clay public safety commissioner. Morrissey had approached Jeffries to intercede in a spat between Jeffries and Jeffries' girlfriend. 

 

After Jeffries pushed him, the five-foot-11-inch Morrissey struck Jeffries, Honors said. ``I don't think the punch itself was anything, except that Butch was unstable,'' said George Willis, the bar's owner and the father of Jeffries' girlfriend. ``From what I heard, Fred just intended to keep the guy away from him. It wasn't the kind of thing to put him into the next world or anything.'' ``I feel horrible for the guy who did this,'' Willis said. ``Fred called me. He thought he was protecting my daughter.'' After Jeffries fell to the floor, he began vomiting and having difficulty breathing, Willis said. His daughter, Kelly Willis, 23, who is Jeffries' girlfriend and a nurse, tried to help Jeffries. She and another person tried to revive Jeffries by performing mouth-to-mouth and cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Moyers Corners Fire Department rescue workers rescue crews took over the job before took Jeffries to St. Joseph's Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 1:55 a.m. Onondaga County Medical Examiner Erik Mitchell said Wednesday that a blood clot on Jeffries' brain caused his death, Honors said. Clay police questioned Morrissey Wednesday but did not arrest him. 

``We've talked to the DA's office and they feel that rather than make an arrest now, they would rather present it to a grand jury,'' Honors said. Assistant District Attorney Ralph Tortora declined to comment when asked if Morrissey might be charged with homicide. Morrissey, who retired after undergoing a heart operation, did not return a message left with his wife. ``We have 11 children and wouldn't hurt anybody,'' Donna Morrissey said in a brief conversation. Morrissey was not injured in the fight, Honors said. Richard's Ole Timer is a small bar located at 8865 Gaskin Road, near the Oswego County line. Above the tavern is the apartment Jeffries and Willis shared for the past year. George Willis said the fatal fight was the first big disturbance in the bar since he bought it 11 years ago. Jeffries and Morrissey knew each other for a couple of years, and never had any disputes with each other before, said Willis, 52, of Baldwinsville. Both were regular bar patrons. But Jeffries was intoxicated when he arrived at the bar Tuesday night, Willis said. Jeffries and his daughter were having a disagreement because Jeffries had not been ready to go home Tuesday night when she went to the Bowl Inn in Phoenix to pick him up, Willis said. That's when Morrissey intervened. ``Butch is pretty much of a loner. He's pretty quiet. He's not one that would cause any trouble as a rule. . . . But he would defend himself if he felt the necessity,'' Willis said. Jeffries was the oldest of three brothers, according to his mother, Helen Jeffries of Liverpool. He worked in the warmer months framing houses with his brothers. Prior to that, he worked for seven years at Gaylord Brothers Inc., a library and office supply firm on Morgan Road, Helen Jeffries said.

 

 

 

1990
Chief Chet Fritz
 First Deputy Chief: Ken Brand Jr.
Second Deputy Chief Greg Tiner
Battalion 1 Chief Mike Chura
Battalion 2 Chief George Race
Battalion 3 Chief Tim Chura
Station 1 Captains Steve Rubacky, Bud Neuman
Station 2 Captains Chris Naum, Ron Turiello
Station 3 Captains John Perkins, Frank Houde 
Station 1 Lieutenants: Greg Mazza, Ron Williams, Jerry Hole, Dennis Moore

 

Station 2 Lieutenants: Steve Bressette, Paul Wiedeman, Steve McGraw, Don Mace

 

Station 3 Lieutenants: Ron Jennings, Dean Leeson, Tim DeRuyscher, Jeff Wisely

 

Executive Board
 President Cecil Gillespy
Vice President John Olgren 
Secretary Kevin Wisely, Assistant Secretary Steve Wisely 
Treasurer Mike LeFebvre, Assistant Treasurers Rolf Beckhusen, Geoff Maes

 

Fire Police:  Captain Bob Swahn 
 Lieutenants: Ken Brand Sr., Dick Kyle, Tom Olsweski, Dave Ferguson

 

 

 

Ambulance Admins: Administrator Jim Burton, 1st Assistant Dan Miller, 2nd Assistant Jim Spina,
 3rd Assistant Mike Begnoche

 

 

 

Auxiliary: President Linda Gobin, Vice President Cindy Houde, Recording Secretary Marta Arnold,  Corresponding Pam Chicallo, Treasurer Joyce Bressette, Chaplain Louise Gillespy

 

Scholarship Winners: Jonathan Dembowski, Matthew Eichenlaub

 

 

 

New Apparatus: Engine 31 1990 E-One Hush, Haz mat 3 Chevrolet Kodiak

 

 

 

Installation Banquet pictures

 

 

 

January 5th, 1990
Fire damages mobile home

 

Herald-Journal

 

A fire damaged a mobile home today at 2400 Chelsea Court in the Casual Estates, Clay, according to Onondaga County Fire Control. Occupants of the trailer, Kimberly Wall and her two children were not at home at the time the blaze broke out, said employees at the Casual Estates office. The cause of the 10 a.m. fire has not been determined. No injuries were reported.

 

 

 

January 11th, 1990

 

Master of Planning – Great Northern Mall

 

The Post-Standard

 

By Don Harting

 

IF YOU ENJOY shopping at Great Northern Mall, give Jim Keefe some of the credit.  And if you don't, give him some of the blame. Keefe, 63, stepped down Dec. 31 after 16 years as commissioner of planning in the town of Clay. In that $32,000-a-year job, Keefe was responsible for making sure the mall's developer complied with the town zoning ordinance and the New York State Fire Prevention and Building Code. His job might sound dry, but many of those who worked with him on the project agree that Keefe's dedication helped produce a successful and attractive mall where people love to shop. One of the people who came to know Keefe during the Great Northern project is Tom Case, project manager for mall developer Wilmorite Inc. of Rochester. For about a year, spanning parts of 1986 and 1987, Case worked closely with Keefe making sure plans for the mall were satisfactory to both Wilmorite and the town. That meant many late nights working out compromises on mundane but important subjects, such as how many entrances there would be on Route 31, what kind of fire alarm system would be installed and how much landscaping would be planted. 

The mall opened in 1988, and Case has gone on to other projects, such as building an addition to Shoppingtown in DeWitt, as well as others in Rochester, Saratoga and Danbury, Conn. But he still recalls working with Keefe with pleasure. ``As far as working with towns go, we never had a job go as smoothly as we did in Clay,'' Case said. ``He should be very proud of it. He did an excellent job.'' Syracuse residents have told Keefe that even though they live closer to Penn-Can Mall in Cicero -- another Wilmorite property -- they're willing to drive farther to Great Northern because it is more attractive and easier to enter and exit with their cars. Great Northern was the single largest commercial project Keefe was involved in, but it's only part of the growth that has exploded in Clay during Keefe's tenure. 

In 1975 Clay's population stood at 44,000, but by 1990 it had expanded to an estimated 60,000, according to town figures. Much of the growth took place in subdivisions of single-family homes. Kay Dabrowski, a staffer for the Syracuse-Onondaga County Planning Agency, said Keefe did a good job staying ahead of the growth. 
She got to know Keefe through working with him on housing and commercial projects referred to the county by the town. ``I think he's done an excellent job out there, keeping pace with the growth,'' Dabrowski said. ``He'll be a hard act to follow.'' The results of good planning can be recognized by houses and businesses kept separately with a comfortable distance between them, Dabrowksi said. It can also be recognized in few entrances on busy roads to cut down on turning traffic, by pleasant landscaping, good drainage and store fronts set well back from the highway, Dabrowski said. Common results of bad planning are standing water, traffic jams, poor landscaping and a confusing array of signs and businesses so close to the road that motorists are distracted, Dabrowski said. Clay residents enjoy the results of good planning along Routes 57 and 31, but Salina, Syracuse and Camillus residents must endure the legacy of poor planning along Route 11 in Mattydale, Erie Boulevard East and West Genesee Street, Dabrowski said. Although many shoppers might not realize it, a lot of planning went into making Great Northern a safe and pleasant place to shop, according to Chris Naum, a fire protection expert for Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department. 

A committee of volunteer firefighters with technical expertise in fire protection reviewed Wilmorite's plans and suggested improvements, some of which were incorporated in the final design, Naum said. For example, the mall has a box alarm system that tells firefighters which store to go to in case of a fire. Otherwise firefighters could waste time trying to find the fire, Naum said. Naum gives the credit for what he called a rare degree of cooperation between the developer and the firefighters to Keefe, who permitted the firefighters to become involved. ``We were sort of an extension of the town's operations,'' Naum said. ``Obviously we wouldn't have been able to do any of this without Jim Keefe's initial involvement.'' Keefe was educated at Plattsburgh State Teachers' College, which has since become the State University of New York at Plattsburgh. He majored in education and minored in engineering. His first career was with Lamson Corp. of Syracuse, with which he became a contract manager. He first became active in town affairs as a founding member of a homeowners' association in the Bayberry subdivision. He earned a seat on the town planning board in 1959 and served two years, then he spent three years on the town board. He worked two years as code enforcement officer before being named planning commissioner. Those who have worked with him agree Keefe has a knack for doing things right, but it hasn't always been that way. There was a time when he was in hot water. In 1978 Crouse-Hinds Co. asked permission to build a liquefied propane gas storage tank to help the company weather the energy crisis. Keefe went ahead and signed the building permit without telling the fire department or the town board. 

Ed Viel, who was then chief of Moyers Corners Fire Department , can laugh about the incident now, but it was no laughing matter when the incident made local headlines. ``I was upset with everybody at the time,'' Viel said. ``I wanted to know why we weren't notified.'' Viel wanted to be sure Crouse-Hinds would install a sprinkler system to cool the tank in case it caught fire. Not long before, a propane tank fire at Moyers Corners resulted in a man being badly burned. Although it was unpleasant then, the incident led to closer cooperation between Keefe and the fire department regarding fire safety for new construction projects, said Viel, who went on to become town fire marshal and report directly to Keefe. Viel said he admires Keefe for not trying to keep the incident a secret. ``I give him a lot of credit for bringing it back up,'' Viel said, ``because I'd forgotten about it.''

 

 

 

February 5th, 1990

 

Nightgown Catches Fire

 

Herald-Journal

 

A woman was burned today after a hot coal fell from a wood-burning stove and ignited her nightgown. Pam O'Hora, 30, of 3712 Pendulum Path, Clay, suffered first-, second- and third-degree burns in the accident, sheriff's department spokesman Robert Burns said. She was being treated today at University Hospital. O'Hora told deputies and firefighters she was tending to the fire in the wood stove, which is in her kitchen, about 9:30 a.m., when her nightgown caught fire . Moyers Corners firefighters put out a small fire in the kitchen. Fire damage was limited to the kitchen, Burns said. The rest of the house was damaged by smoke, and there was some water damage. Burns said most of the woman's burns were second- and third-degree, which are of a lesser severity than first-degree. He said her injuries were not life-threatening.

 

 

 

March 20th, 1990
Horseshoe Island Fire, pictures
News Interview with Chief Greg Tiner: 
“Upon arrival we had a fully involved structure. At this time we are not sure if all of the occupants are out at this particular point in time. So far we haven’t seen any presence of smoke detectors again upon arrival the house was fully involved.  We have a report of one occupant that may be still inside. There have not been any injuries at this time. There was a lot of fire. Three companies are working. Everyone did a real splendid job putting this thing down. We have Moyers Corners, Liverpool, Phoenix..Clay and North Syracuse are on stand-by at this time.”

 

 

 

March 31st, 1990

 

Spring Craft Show at Station 1. Debbie Neuman was chairperson with a profit of $2769.

 

 

 

April 1990

 

Scholarship Winners John Dembowski and Matt Eichenlaub.

 

Pictures

 

 

 

May 21, 1990

 

Auxiliary Installation Banquet held at Sam’s Lakeside Restaurant in Brewerton. Natalie Hunter and Lorraine Sahm chaired the event. Ellie Oakes received 35 year pin. Natalie Hunter and Ethel Viel – 30 years.

 

Pictures.

 

 

 

May 21st, 1990

 

Letter to Herald Journal

 

On May 15th, I saw the drivers of two cars hold a volunteer fireman hostage for a good mile and a half on Route 57. This fireman was attempting to get to the Moyers Corners fire barn to answer an emergency call. His blue light was on, but it made no difference to these drivers. This cold and callous behavior could result in the loss of a home or a life. These firemen risk life and limb each time they answer a call. They do this in order to help others in danger. These men get no pay and most of the time little thanks in return. These men must train each week, which means long hours away from home and family. The slate makes it so tough that it discourages many from joining. It's time that we all wake up and give these men a chance. Next time, they may be on the way to your home, and they may be too late because you refused to let them through. This particular fireman obeyed the law in every respect If I had been in his shoes, I am not so sure that I could have kept my cool as he did. Oh yes, when he got near the fire barn, he was too late. The fire engine could wait no longer and had to leave without him.

 

BOB COGSWELL

 

Clay

 

 

 

June 7th, 1990
Auxiliary Rummage Sale at Station 1. $336.25 profit

 

June 9th, 1990

 

Herald Journal

 

Amber Smith

 

Volunteer paramedics cited for attempt to save life

 

Moyers Corners volunteers will receive lifesaving certificates from Onondaga County for reviving an elderly woman suffering a heart attack May 24. "It is clearly through the action of these medics that this patient arrived alive at the emergency department," said Dr. John McCabe, associate professor of critical care and emergency,' medicine at University Hospital. He congratulated the crew — paramedics Dave Cywinski and. Sue Derbyshire and Emergency Medical Technician Bill Seimers — in a letter to the Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department. The county's lifesaving awards were created by the Emergency Medical Services bureau and advisory board earlier this year. A banquet will be held in September to honor ambulance; workers, and the trio from Moyers Corners will be among; several to receive awards. Derbyshire said the crew got to the woman's house in less than four minutes. Volunteer firefighters performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation while she and Cywinski administered heart drugs and used a machine to shock her heart into beating. The name of the woman who was revived was not released. She died in the hospital two days later. Still, medical experts say, it's rare for a person whose heart has stopped to be brought back,

 

for any amount of time.

 

 

 

July 1990 Burndown Pictures

 

 

 

June 13th, 1990

 

MCFD receives $2000 grant from Onondaga County for recruitment and advertising

 

June 13th, 1990

 

Syroco Fire

 

 

 

July 15th, 1990

 

Herald Journal
Jon Craig and Don Cazentre

 

Firefighters water reacts with caustic drain cleaner

 

Residents evacuated as Dumpster fire erupts …continued

 

Residents were evacuated from three buildings Saturday at a Clay apartment complex after the water firefighters poured into a burning Dumpster reacted with two canisters of caustic drain cleaner and chlorine bleach. The reaction formed ammonia. "When they (firefighters) hit it with the water, it went 'whoosh' and erupted," said tenant Paul Kostoroski, thrusting his arms into the air. "There was smoke and flames." Lisa Letteney, a public health engineer with the Onondaga County Health Department, said a common household cleaner — probably composed of sodium or potassium hydroxide — emitted fumes. "A little can really set it off," she said of the potent drain opener. Moyers Corners Fire Captain Ron Turiello said a chlorine bleach container also was found in the bin at the Morgan Garden Apartments, Buckley and Morgan roads. Because the ammonia was released in an open area and not in large quantities, Letteney said it was a minor irritant to people's respiratory systems and did not injure anyone. THE FIRE MAY have smoldered for a while before Michael Alder, a Moyers Corners firefighter who lives in the complex, went out to investigate. He called for a fire truck shortly before 10 a.m. When it became apparent that something worse than smoke from burning garbage was spewing out, container also was found in the bin Because the ammonia was released in an open area and not in large quantities, Letteney said it was a minor irritant to people's respiratory systems and did not injure anyone. It was unknown what else burned in the Dumpster, just off Buckley Road/ ABOUT 10 firefighters were decontaminated as a precaution. They were hosed off over two portable pools. Members of six fire departments responded as did the county's Hazardous Materials response team Moyers Corners Battalion Chief Timothy Chura — at the scene most of Saturday with the "Hazmat" team and a crew from Clean Harbors Cos. Environmental Services — said it is not known what else was in the Dumpster. Yellow tape marked "Caution, caustic hazard" surrounded the bin, which was covered with a thin plastic tarpaulin. "It may take us weeks," Chura said about determining exactly what was in the bin. TURIELLO SAID the Clean Harbors crew assured firefighters nothing hazardous had been identified.

 

 

 

A 55-gallon drum was used to dispose of some of the burned, wet debris. Crews bagged the clothes of the firefighters who went through the decontamination. Chura said some items might have been dumped illegally in the bin "This is a problem you have with Dumpsters — anybody can come by and throw something in " Letteney said she suspected the cans of drain cleaner were thrown away by a tenant PEOPLE EVACUATED from 30 apartments in three of the 11 buildings in the complex. They were allowed back in their homes within two hours of the fire. At about 12:30 p m., moon-suited members of the county's Hazmat response team began removing trash from the Dumpster. Materials were wrapped carefully and placed on blue containers for decontamination and examination At least eight people were treated by paramedics at the scene and taken to Crouse Irving Memorial and University hospitals for routine examinations All were released, according to Chura. Three Moyers Corners firefighters overcome by the fumes were among the first at the scene Jeff Wisely, Steve McGraw and Pete Caluwe. They attempted to douse the fire with water, but found that the material inside reacted by spewing a cloud of gas. THE THREE were given oxygen at the scene as a precaution, Chura said, and later checked at area hospitals. McGraw went to Crouse Irving and was released Wisely and Calloway were treated at University Hospital and released.

 

 

 

Several residents complained of headaches and feelings of nausea "It smelled like ammonia," said Clint Rood, whose second-floor apartment overlooks the Dumpster that caught fire "I smelled it but got out immediately I shut the windows immediately " Rick Passimo, who parked his car next to the Dumpster before he knew it was burning, complained two hours later of a severe headache "I breathed it in, and I'm paying for it now," he said Other residents said they knew nothing about the Dumpster until fire department officials told them to evacuate. "They just told me to get out because there was some kind of poisonous gas or something," said Tina Kimball, who stood holding her daughter on the lawn between buildings. "I can't get to my car to go anywhere". Fire departments responded from Clay, East Syracuse, Elbndge, Minoa, Moyers Corners and North Syracuse. The fire may have smoldered for a while before Michael Alder, a Moyers Corners firefighter who lives in the complex, went out to investigate. He called for a fire truck.

 

 

 

News Interview with Battalion Chief Tim Chura:

 

“About 10:07 this morning the Moyers Corners Fire Department responded to a dumpster fire in the Morgan Gardens apartment complex off Morgan Road. Upon our arrival, an unknown chemical was reacting with water inside the dumpster itself. The water was applied to put the fire out, but we found we had a chemical reaction. The Moyers Corners Hazmat Team along with the County Hazmat team was called to the scene. We sent some people to the hospital as a precaution, firefighters on the first crew. It is all precautionary at this time. We don’t believe there are any injuries right at the moment. We evacuated the building right next to the dumpster just as a precautionary measure to make sure nobody got hurt. Other than that I don’t have any other listed casualties at the moment. Some people were transported to the hospital but I don’t have any information on that. Right now we are attempting to identify the chemical that is inside the dumpster itself. We have no idea. It could be a matter of weeks, we just don’t know. Right now, officials from the DEC are on the scene attempting to isolate the problem, remove the hazard, and attempt to identify what it is.”

 

 

 

August 1st, 1990

 

Car Hits House, Ruptures Gas Line

 

The Post-Standard

 

By Mike McAndrew
A Clay family was left with a gaping hole in their basement wall Tuesday afternoon when a car skidded into their home and ruptured a natural gas line.  Dino A. Dicerbo, 18, of 103 Hibiscus Drive, North Syracuse, escaped injury at 2:13 p.m. when his car struck the 4239 Mayfair Circle home of William and Priscilla Dann, Clay police said.  Dicerbo's 1989 Camaro came to a rest with its front end hanging inside the brown, wood-frame home that the Danns have lived in for six months, police said. Dann, his 14-year-old daughter and one of her friends were inside the home at the time. ``I heard a screech and then I heard it go quiet when it hit the grass,'' said Stephanie Zerrillo, Cathleen Dann's friend. ``Then the whole house shook.'' The impact sent chunks of cinderblock flying onto a bed in the basement of the Dann's home where their son Michael, 22, sleeps, Priscilla Dann said. She had no estimate of the damage to the home. Dicerbo told authorities he could not stop his vehicle because its accelerator became stuck. Clay police issued him a ticket charging him with driving at an imprudent speed. Mayfair Circle was blocked to traffic until a Niagara Mohawk Power Co. crew could shut off the gas to the ruptured pipe. Moyers Corners Fire Department volunteers were dispatched to the scene as a precaution.

 

 

 

 

 

August 2nd, 1990

 

Clay May Consider Firefigther Pensions

 

The Post-Standard

 

By Don Harting

 

WHEN THE MOYERS Corners Fire Department opens its new station on Route 57 across from Seneca Mall next year, it's going to need 15 new volunteers.  More than 20 new members are needed to bring manpower levels up to snuff in the neighboring Clay Fire Department, officials say.  So members of both departments in the town of Clay eagerly embrace a new financial program designed to entice people to join the volunteer fire service and make sure experienced volunteers stay on.  A referendum to approve the program may be on the ballot Nov. 6, but a number of details must be worked out. The Length of Service Award Program (LOSAP) is familiar to many firefighters because it was authorized by state law in September 1989. But each fire district must create the program separately, by a majority vote of residents within the district. So far, about 60 programs have been created around the state, including one in Camillus. 

The program gives each member a small pension that can be drawn after the firefighter reaches a certain age, as well as life insurance and disability benefits. The size of the pension depends on how active the member was and how much training he or she received. Cecil Gillespy, president of the Moyers Corners department, thinks the program will make it easier to recruit new members when the department's fourth station opens in late 1991. Moyers Corners has enough volunteers for its three existing stations, but ``you never have too many,'' Gillespy said. Clay is in a different position. Terry King, department president, said the department has fewer than 60 members, far short of the 80 he said are necessary to provide adequate service. Last year the department gained 14 new members but lost five old ones. It's not uncommon for a member to lose interest in the fire service when besieged by time demands from family, friends and job, King said. ``I think LOSAP is going to help retention (of volunteers) a lot,'' King said. 

Details of the program are only tentative. Clay, Moyers Corners and the town's three other fire companies have submitted proposals to the town board describing the programs they'd like to have. But each program costs money, and the richer the benefits, the greater the amount of property taxes the town must collect. For example, allowing Moyers Corners members to start drawing benefits at age 55 would cost taxpayers $179,000 for the first year of the program, while waiting until age 65 would bring the cost down to $112,000. It's up to the town board to decide what kind of program will satisfy volunteers, yet not alienate taxpayers. Town board members must also work out the formidable logistics involved in holding referenda in the Brewerton, North Syracuse and Caughdenoy fire districts. The logistics of holding an election are tricky, because parts of each of the three districts are outside Clay town boundaries. If the referendum passes in one part of a district and fails in another part, then the district cannot set up the program, according to Anthony Granito of Volunteer Firemen's Insurance Services of New York. 

Granito was present at the Clay Town Hall during a July 25 special meeting of the town board. Councilman Donald MacLaughlin said he thought the service award program was a good idea but it would take time and effort to put into effect. He feared the town board would be seen as not doing enough to help volunteer firefighters if the awards program were not on the ballot Nov. 6. Patrick DiDomenico, town supervisor, complained during the meeting the state of New York had left local governments little choice but to implement the program by offering no other incentives for firefighters. The state could have given volunteers a break on their property taxes, DiDomenico said.

 

 

 

August 12th, 1990

 

Chicken BBQ at Station 1. Linda Gobin and Martha Arnold co-chaired the event. A profit of $1325.57 was made.

 

 

 

September 1990
Accident involving Rescue 3
Drunk driver cut off Rescue 1 at Wetzel Road and Wetzel East Apartments, pictures from website

 

 

 

October 4th, 1990
Chemical Spills Vehicle Rolls
The Post Standard
By Don Harting
Kevin Wisely can’t wait to install a suit rack in the back of a new truck belonging to the Moyers Corners Fire Department in Clay. The suits Wisely wants to hang there don’t carry and Armani or Learbury label. The’re bulky, rubberized orange and silver suits Wisely and his firefighting colleagues at Moyers Corners use when they respond to hazardous chemical spills. Their new truck, a Special Hazards Vehicle, arrived this summer, and Wisely is planning to customize the interior to make sure it fits firefighter’s needs. The truck is kept at Station 3, at Henry Clay Boulevard and Taft Road, but it could be called into serviceat a major toxic spill anywhere in Onondaga County. So Wisely, his younger brother Jeff and other members of the Moyers Corners hazardous spill team have been spending time learning how to respond to toxic emergencies. Fighting a regular fire usually means rushing in without delay, pulling hoses and dumping as much water as possible on the flames, Kevin Wisely said. But containing a toxic leak requires a different approach. “You want to stand back and size up the situation,” Wisely said. “You don’t want to rush right into an incident without the proper protective equipment.”

 

 

 

Having proper equipment handy will be easier now for Moyers Corners volunteers, thanks to the van purchased with $50,0-00 in the 1989-1990 state budget. Before the van arrived, Moyers Corners relied on a separate, small trailer, which had to be attached to a pickup truck each time it was used. Have a self-propelled van will get firefighters to the scene more quickly, said Jeff Wisely. Also, more gear can be carried on the van, said the older Wisely. For example, the van carries four large barrels containing foam to be used to fight a fire of a flammable liquid like gasoline. Much of the van’s cargo weight consists of bags of dry chemicals, such as sodium bicarbonate and soda ash, used to neutralize acids. In addition, the van carries wrenches to close valves, and mushroom-shaped steel plugs of various sizes to stop holes in the sides of leaking storage tanks. Moyers Corners’ new van hasn’t seen true hazardous duy yet.  It went into service two weeks after a hazardous incident when it might have been used, according to Stephen Wisely, Kevin and Jeff’s father and coordinator of the Onondaga County Hazardous Materials Response Unit.

 

 

 

On July 14, containers of discarded drain cleaner reacted with a container of cholorine bleach in an unattended trash bin outside Morgan Gardens apartments on Morgan Road in Clay. Residents of 30 apartmetns were evacuated to escape ammonia fumes, but no one was injured. At first, firefighters poured water on the smoke and flames, but that only made the problem worse, because the water speeded the chemical reaction, Wisely said. Eventually, the county’s hazardous response unit arrived and solved the problem by covering the container until the flames died down, Wisely said. It would have been nice to have the new truck available at Moyers Corners then, because it could have responded directly without tying up the truck that pulled the trailer for house, Wisely said. Moyers Corners new acquisition was called “superb” by Bruce Holbrook, division manager for Pico Printed Circuits in Liverpool. Pico’s factory at 103 Commerce Blvd. is midway between Station 3 and the Liverpool Fire Departmetn in downtown Liverpool. “That’s just around the corners,” Holbrook said. In case of a major disaster, have the Moyers Corners vehicle nearby “would be very beneficial,” he added.

 

 

 

Records filed with the county Office of Emergency Management show that Pico uses several hazardous chemicals in its operations, including ammonia, sulfuric acid, sodium cyanide and formaldehyde. Ammonia irritates the respiratory tract, acid causes burns or blindness, sodium cyanide gives of lethal cyanide gas when it burns, and formaldehyde is a suspected carcinogen. Despite these potential health threats, Jeff Wisely said he’s not afraid of donning  a protective suit and attacking toxic spills for Moyers Corners. “With the training and family background, I’m not really nervous about it,” Jeff Wisely said.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

October 7th, 1990

 

Herald American

 

Baldwinsville firefighter honored

 

Mike Chura, a volunteer with the Moyers Corners Fire Department, was also honored. He tried to save a baby from a burning trailer Dec. 12.

 

 

 

June 13, 1990 
Syroco Mutual Aid, pictures

 

 

 

1990 Softball Team

 

 

 

November 29th, 1990
Riverglen House fire, pictures

 

 

 

December 5th, 1990

 

Casual Estates Fire, 6:53pm
Channel 3 WSTM News Coverage

 

The Moyers Corners Fire Chief says Janice Harke and two friends were in the trailer when the fire began apparently with a candle. The trio tried to put out the flames. It took firefighters an hour and a half to stop it. One firefighters was hurt getting cut on the face when a hose hit him. Just last December, on another street in Casual Estates, a two-year-old girl, Courtney Scott, was killed when the trailer she lived in caught fire.

 

 

 

December 10th, 1990

 

Auxiliary Christmas Banquet was held at Jake Hafner’s Restaurant. $200 was collected in donations for needy families. Sandy Henderson and Cindy Houde chaired.

 

 

 

December 14th, 1990

 

Herald Journal

 

Police probe minor fires at Liverpool High school

 

Fire and water together at Liverpool High School — at least this week. There were three fires set this week

 

at the high school. In one incident, a piece of paper on a wall was burned; in another, a fire was set in a toilet bowl; and the third the fire was set in a boy's locker. There was a fourth more than a month ago, in a waste basket in a boy's bathroom. The last of the fires was set Wednesday. Two fires were found extinguished. The others were quickly put out, said Ray Savarese, executive principal. "The Moyers Corners Fire Department and Clay police were called in the three recent fires," Savarese said. There are several leads the police are following, he said. "If the leads are successful, we will prosecute," Savarese said.  “Police told me it will  be second-degree arson." Then on Thursday, students flushed 24 toilets at the same time — 12.30 p.m. — in what one teen said was an attempt to break a water main "I heard the rumor and checked it out ahead of time to see if it would break a water main, and I was told it was not," Savarese said. He was right It didn't work.

 

 

 

December 16th, 1990

 

Fire Truck Rams Children’s Party
Syracuse Herald American
By Esther Gross

 

Parents screamed for their children as a truck carrying Santa Claus careened out of control, knocking a hole in the fire station where children eagerly awaited Santa's arrival. Eleven people were injured. Police helicopters transported some to the hospital.  Eleven people, including five children, were injured Saturday when a Moyers Corners fire truck carrying Santa Claus crashed through a fire station wall and plowed into a room where children were enjoying a Christmas party.   One of the children was knocked unconscious, according to rescuers. Others at the party suffered broken legs, crushed pelvises, cracked ribs and head injuries. 

The driver, Richard Chicallo, 27, of 8393 Warbler Way, Liverpool, told Clay police the accelerator pedal stuck, causing the vehicle to surge forward and preventing him from stopping.  The fire truck struck two parked cars. One of the vehicles and the fire engine careened through a brick wall and into the building, Station One at the intersection of routes 31 and 57.  No tickets have been issued, police said. But an investigation into the accident is continuing.  Neither Chicallo, who is a volunteer firefighter, nor his passenger playing Santa Claus, David Evans, 25, of 500 Edgerton St., Minoa, was injured, police said. Evans is not a member of the Moyers Corners Fire Department , police said.  Approximately 50 people were in the meeting room at the back of the fire station at the time, police said.  Kenneth Brand, a Moyers Corners deputy chief, was in the kitchen helping prepare food for another Christmas party scheduled for Saturday night. The last thing he heard before the 2 p.m. crash was someone shouting, ``Here comes Santa Claus now.'' 

``All I heard was a bang,'' Brand said. ``I looked out the window and saw a car and truck coming toward me and got out of the way.'' The door of the meeting room was stuck, so Brand ran around to the back of the building, where he saw ``mass confusion'' with parents yelling and looking for their children.  ``The kids didn't know what to do,'' said one former firefighter who was in the room when the crash occurred. He would not give his name. ``They were all in shock. They didn't know what was going on. We had to fight with some of them to get them out of the room.''  Holly Rand of Liverpool, owner of the 1987 Ford Tempo that crashed into the building, said all she remembers is being at the window with her children, Danny, 5, and Michael, 21 months, looking for Santa. None of the Rands was injured.  The announcement of Santa's arrival probably prevented more children from being injured, said Rand, whose husband Paul is a volunteer firefighter.  ``That saved a lot of kids,'' she said. ``They were at the window, not seated at the table where they had been.'' The table was adjacent to the wall where the car and truck plowed into the room. When they heard Santa was coming, the children ran to a window farther along the back wall so they could look out and see him. That move took them out of the truck's path. 

Rand said a few people screamed, but most remained calm. Firefighters acted quickly, passing out blankets to people forced outside in 31-degree weather, assisting the injured and making sure everyone left the room quickly.  Neither Chicallo nor Evans could be reached for comment Saturday night.  Aaron Williams, 5, of Liverpool was the first victim to arrive at University Hospital. He was taken by Onondaga County Sheriff's Department helicopter and was listed in serious condition with multiple injuries.  The New York State Police helicopter arrived at University Hospital next with Denise Brady, 36, of Liverpool. She was listed in fair condition with multiple injuries.  Her son, John Brady, 10, was treated for a hand injury at University Hospital and released. 

Kim Wilcox, 8, of Baldwinsville, was treated for minor head injuries at University Hospital and released.  Three other victims, Kathleen Murdock, 88; Kathleen Chura, 27; and Nancy Zampini, 21, were taken to St. Joseph's Hospital Health Center. Murdock was in serious condition Saturday night; Chura and Zampini were treated and released.  John Midgley, 10, was taken to Community-General Hospital, where he was treated and released.  Kathy Sahm, 29, her 2-month-old daughter Lauren and Pam Chicallo, the wife of the truck driver, were treated at Crouse Irving Memorial Hospital and released. Chicallo's age was not available.  The crash created a 30-foot hole in the back of the building, turned over tables and chairs, took out tiles in the drop ceiling and created a twisted mass of wood, glass, metal and bricks.  ``The building was shaking, and I heard a lot of rumbling and saw stuff falling from the roof,'' said Diane Becker, who was in the kitchen with Brand, helping to prepare for the second party. Afterward, firefighters stood at the back of the station, peering into the room where pictures of Santa Claus, wreaths and snowmen were tacked to the walls along with giant foam candy canes and red and green balloons. A Christmas tree decorated with ornaments stood in a corner . 

The damaged wall in the rear of the fire house was covered with plastic Saturday night. The meeting room remained in disarray. Brand said this was the first children's Christmas party Moyers Corners has held in three or four years. Now that more people with young children are becoming volunteers, it was decided to have one again. The party had been under way for about an hour when the crash occurred. Popcorn, cookies and punch were set up on a table in the middle of the room. Children were playing games like ``Pin the Nose on the Snowman.'' In addition to the two helicopters, the victims were taken to area hospitals by ambulances from Phoenix, Liverpool, Moyers Corners and Baldwinsville, plus Syracuse's commercial service, Eastern Ambulance. 
Fire trucks also came from the two other Moyers Corners stations and from the Phoenix and Baldwinsville departments .

 

 

 

Staff writers Don Cazentre and

 

Amber Smith contributed to this

 

report.

 

 

 

December 16th, 1990

 

Santa crashes through wall

 

The Telegraph (ap)

 

Santa Claus surprised children at a fire department Christmas party Saturday when he came crashing through a wall on a fire truck, sending cinder blocks and debris flying. Eleven people, including a 2-month old baby, were injured in the accident and taken to area hospitals. Clay police dispatcher Steve Mauser, said. He said two people, a 37-year old mother and her 5-year old son, were seriously hurt and hospitalized with fractures and internal bleeding. The driver, Richard Chicallo, 27, told police the gas pedal got stuck and forced the vehicle to surge forward. The fire truck hit two cars parked outside the Moyers Corners Fire Department in the Syracuse suburb of Clay, forcing one car through the wall and into the banquet room and startling the 50 people waiting for Santa to appear through the door, Mauser said. “I don’t think the kids knew what was going on. They were shocked,” he said. Chicallo and the Santa, 25-year old David Evans, were not injured. The truck destroyed half of the wall and a significant amount of the building’s internal structure, Mauser said.

 

 

 

December 16th, 1990

 

Fire Truck Rams Children’s Party

 

Syracuse Herald American

 

By Esther Gross

 

Parents screamed for their children as a truck carrying Santa Claus careened out of control, knocking a hole in the fire station where children eagerly awaited Santa's arrival. Eleven people were injured. Police helicopters transported some to the hospital. 
Eleven people, including five children, were injured Saturday when a Moyers Corners fire truck carrying Santa Claus crashed through a fire station wall and plowed into a room where children were enjoying a Christmas party. One of the children was knocked unconscious, according to rescuers. Others at the party suffered broken legs, crushed pelvises, cracked ribs and head injuries. The driver, Richard Chicallo, 27, of 8393 Warbler Way, Liverpool, told Clay police the accelerator pedal stuck, causing the vehicle to surge forward and preventing him from stopping. 

The fire truck struck two parked cars. One of the vehicles and the fire engine careened through a brick wall and into the building, Station One at the intersection of routes 31 and 57. No tickets have been issued, police said. But an investigation into the accident is continuing. Neither Chicallo, who is a volunteer firefighter, nor his passenger playing Santa Claus, David Evans, 25, of 500 Edgerton St., Minoa, was injured, police said. Evans is not a member of the Moyers Corners Fire Department , police said. Approximately 50 people were in the meeting room at the back of the fire station at the time, police said. Kenneth Brand, a Moyers Corners deputy chief, was in the kitchen helping prepare food for another Christmas party scheduled for Saturday night. The last thing he heard before the 2 p.m. crash was someone shouting, ``Here comes Santa Claus now.'' ``All I heard was a bang,'' Brand said. ``I looked out the window and saw a car and truck coming toward me and got out of the way.'' The door of the meeting room was stuck, so Brand ran around to the back of the building, where he saw ``mass confusion'' with parents yelling and looking for their children. ``The kids didn't know what to do,'' said one former firefighter who was in the room when the crash occurred. He would not give his name. ``They were all in shock. They didn't know what was going on. We had to fight with some of them to get them out of the room.'' Holly Rand of Liverpool, owner of the 1987 Ford Tempo that crashed into the building, said all she remembers is being at the window with her children, Danny, 5, and Michael, 21 months, looking for Santa. None of the Rands was injured. 

The announcement of Santa's arrival probably prevented more children from being injured, said Rand, whose husband Paul is a volunteer firefighter. ``That saved a lot of kids,'' she said. ``They were at the window, not seated at the table where they had been.'' The table was adjacent to the wall where the car and truck plowed into the room. When they heard Santa was coming, the children ran to a window farther along the back wall so they could look out and see him. That move took them out of the truck's path. Rand said a few people screamed, but most remained calm. Firefighters acted quickly, passing out blankets to people forced outside in 31-degree weather, assisting the injured and making sure everyone left the room quickly. Neither Chicallo nor Evans could be reached for comment Saturday night. Aaron Williams, 5, of Liverpool was the first victim to arrive at University Hospital. He was taken by Onondaga County Sheriff's Department helicopter and was listed in serious condition with multiple injuries. The New York State Police helicopter arrived at University Hospital next with Denise Brady, 36, of Liverpool. She was listed in fair condition with multiple injuries. Her son, John Brady, 10, was treated for a hand injury at University Hospital and released. Kim Wilcox, 8, of Baldwinsville, was treated for minor head injuries at University Hospital and released. Three other victims, Kathleen Murdock, 88; Kathleen Chura, 27; and Nancy Zampini, 21, were taken to St. Joseph's Hospital Health Center. Murdock was in serious condition Saturday night; Chura and Zampini were treated and released. John Midgley, 10, was taken to Community-General Hospital, where he was treated and released. Kathy Sahm, 29, her 2-month-old daughter Lauren and Pam Chicallo, the wife of the truck driver, were treated at Crouse Irving Memorial Hospital and released. Chicallo's age was not available. 

The crash created a 30-foot hole in the back of the building, turned over tables and chairs, took out tiles in the drop ceiling and created a twisted mass of wood, glass, metal and bricks. ``The building was shaking, and I heard a lot of rumbling and saw stuff falling from the roof,'' said Diane Becker, who was in the kitchen with Brand, helping to prepare for the second party. Afterward, firefighters stood at the back of the station, peering into the room where pictures of Santa Claus, wreaths and snowmen were tacked to the walls along with giant foam candy canes and red and green balloons. A Christmas tree decorated with ornaments stood in a corner. 
The damaged wall in the rear of the fire house was covered with plastic Saturday night. The meeting room remained in disarray. Brand said this was the first children's Christmas party Moyers Corners has held in three or four years. Now that more people with young children are becoming volunteers, it was decided to have one again. The party had been under way for about an hour when the crash occurred. Popcorn, cookies and punch were set up on a table in the middle of the room. Children were playing games like ``Pin the Nose on the Snowman.'' In addition to the two helicopters, the victims were taken to area hospitals by ambulances from Phoenix, Liverpool, Moyers Corners and Baldwinsville, plus Syracuse's commercial service, Eastern Ambulance. 
Fire trucks also came from the two other Moyers Corners stations and from the Phoenix and Baldwinsville departments.

 

 

 

December 17th, 1990

 

Herald Journal

 

Patrick Lakamp

 

“My Mommy’s under there, my mommy’s under there’

 

Truck that hit firehall inspected 2 weeks ago

 

Kathleen Chura caught only a glimpse of the fire truck that smashed into the Moyers Corners fire station before her brother shoved her to safety. Her brother, Michael Chura, then saw his 6-month-old daughter, Meghan, in a car seat on a table. He snatched her just as the table gave way. His great-aunt, Kathleen Murdock, 88, sitting at the same table, was knocked past him before he could do anything. She was seriously hurt. "Everything was moving in front and back of me," Michael Chura said, describing the shower of bricks, concrete blocks and glass. "It looked like a tidal wave." CHURA, 29, of 8401 Quadrant Lane is a battalion chief for the Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department. He and his daughter were not hurt. Others weren't so lucky. Eleven people were hurt Saturday afternoon when a fire truck — carrying Santa Claus to a Christmas party for children — crashed into Station One at the intersection of routes 31 and 57. Fire department officials said the accelerator petal stuck, causing the truck to surge forward. Three people remain hospitalized, two in serious condition. AARON WILLIAMS, 5. of Liverpool is in fair condition at University Hospital. Denise Brady. 36, of 8401 Warbler Way, Liverpool, is in serious condition at University Hospital Hospital. Kathleen Murdock of Syracuse is in serious but stable cpr.diticr. ir. the surgical intensive care unit at St. Joseph's Hospital Health Center. The 14-year-old fire truck that slammed into the fire house was inspected about two weeks ago, a fire department deputy chief said. But the check by a mechanic, the deputy chief said, didn't include an examination of the truck's accelerator which the fire truck driver said stuck Saturday afternoon. "It's not a problem you can spot," said Ken Brand, a Town of Clay Highway Department laborer and a Moyers Corners department volunteers. Clay Police Department investigators have impounded the fire truck, Engine 11, Brand said. Two weeks ago, the fire truck underwent its six month inspection. Brand said. Every six months, mechanics inspect the Moyers Corners' 15 fire trucks, he said. J Every two weeks, a volunteer makes a visual check of each truck — checking the oil, tire pressure — and lakes each truck for a short road test, Brand said. "I WAS standing next to a table in the path of the truck," said Kathleen Chura, 27. "Our table had started out at the center of the room. It ended up against the back wall." Kathleen Chura was treated and released from St. Joseph's. She had severe swelling of her ankle and is on crutches. Kathy Sahm, 29, was standing at the other; end of the table before the crash. She and her 2-monlh old daughter, Lauren, were treated and released at Crouse Irving Memorial Hospital. A 30-foot steel beam fell on Denise Brady. She has a crushed pelvis, broken ribs, collapsed lung and a blood clot in her eye.

 

 

 

December 20th, 1990

 

Post Standard

 

If Not For Friends

 

Don Harting

 

Christmas came early this year for the Morawski family of Bayberry, but it took a near tragedy to move the holiday ahead four weeks on a calendar. On December 4th, a fast moving dryer fire heavily damaged the top two floors of the house on Indian Orchard Lane where John and Kathy Morawski lived with the three youngest of their five children. The family’s cat and hamster died in the blaze, and nearly all the family’s Christmas presents were destroyed or heavily damaged by water and smoke. Damage was complete to the family’s beds, sofas, dining set and kitchen appliances. Yet, through gifts of time, money and furniture from strangers as well as friends, the morawskis’ tears of sadness have turned to tears of joy. “I feel like I’ve had Christmas already,” Kathy Morawski said 10 days before the holiday. “This is what Christmas is all about.” That Tuesday morning, after her husband went to work and John Jr. Jane and Connie left for school, Kathy Morawski placed a load of clothes in the dryer in the laundry room next to the kitchen. Fire investigators say a wad of lint caught in the dryer’s ventilator hose became so hot it caught fire. Investigator Bernard English said a contributing factor was the long run and many bends in the hose between the dryer and the outside wall. As Kathy Morawski swept the kitchen floor, she felt a great heat, and wondered if she’d left something cooking on the stove. “I turned around and saw these flames shooting out of the dryer,” Morawski said. Within seconds, a pile of freshly laundered shirts atop the machine were ablaze. She pulled the dryer’s plug to no avail, then called the fire department. Moyers Corners volunteers were drilling nearby at the company’s station at Morgan and Buckley roads, so it took less time than usual to reach the fire, said Battalion Chief Timothy Chura. When firefighters arrived they found heavy smoke comeing from the first-floor windows in front and flames shooting from a sliding glass door in the rear, Chura said. The fire was knocked down within seven minutes from Kathy Morawski’s call, Chura said, but not before flames gutted the kitchen, the family room, the laundry room and part of the garage. John Morawski came home from h is job as an engineer for Niagara Mohawk nuclear division to find fire engines in front of his house, hoses across his lawn and all the window shattered. Heat from the flames had scorched food inside the freezer. The refrigerator door was melted shut. The smell of smoke permeated items like draperies and bed clothes that the fire did not consume. But no one was injured. Kathy Morawski escaped with little more than her bathrobe and slippers.

 

 

 

December 23rd, 1990

 

State may mandate fire truck inspections

 

Herald American

 

Eric Kriss

 

Fire engines like the one that crashed through a Moyers Corners firehouse wall Dec. 15, injuring 11 people, might have to undergo annual inspections in the future. Assemblyman Michael Bragman, D-Cicero, has written to key officials asking them for advice on how to approach the problem of fire engine safety. As chairman of the Assembly Transportation Committee, Bragman wields significant power over any bill regulating such vehicles. The Moyers Corners accident was blamed on a stuck accelerator pedal. The fire truck smashed into a children's Christmas party.  "This accident has underscored concerns regarding the lack of a state mandated inspection program for fire vehicles," Bragman wrote in letters to the state commissioner of motor vehicles and heads the state associations of firemen, fire districts and fire chiefs. BRAGMAN ASKED Motor Vehicles Commissioner Patricia Addqei for her advice on a proposal that would require a DMV inspector to visit each fire department in the state once a year to inspect its vehicles.. "Let's take a look at this thing,'' Bragman said on Friday. "Can we be convinced that these vehicles are being routinely and appropriately inspected by the fire service on their own, or should we look at implementing a program that is not going to place such a burden on them (fire departments) as taking their vehicles out of service" to get inspected. Moyers Corners fire officials said the 14-year-old fire truck had been inspected two weeks before Ihe accident. They said mechanics inspect the department's trucks every six months. The fire chiefs' group said it fully supports requiring annual inspections.

 

 

 

1991
Chief Chet Fritz
 First Deputy Chief: Greg Tiner
Second Deputy Chief Bud Neuman
Battalion 1 Chief Mike Chura
Battalion 2 Chief Ron Turiello
Battalion 3 Chief Tim Chura
Station 1 Captains Jerry Hole, Kevin Wilcox
Station 2 Captains Chris Naum, Paul Weideman
Station 3 Captains John Perkins, Frank Houde 
Station 1 Lieutenants: Ron Williams, Dick Perkins, Steve Fedorko

 

Station 2 Lieutenants: Steve Bressette, Colin Bailey, Dave Munski, Mike Alder

 

Station 3 Lieutenants: Ron Jennings, Dean Leeson, Ed Wisnowski, Jeff Wisely 
Station 4 Lieutenants: Steve McGraw, Ken Filow

 

Executive Board
 President Steve Wisely
Vice President Bob Michelson 
Secretary Jim Wisnowski, Assistant Secretary Frank Brandaio 
Treasurer Mike LeFebvre, Assistant Treasurer Geoff Maes 

 

Fire Police:  Captain Bob Swahn 
 Lieutenants: Ken Brand Sr., Dick Kyle, Tom Olsweski, Dave Ferguson

 

 

 

Ambulance Admins: Administrator Mike Begnoche, 1st Assistant Bill Gonsa, 2nd Assistant Jerry Streeter,
 3rd Assistant Dave Albro

 

 

 

Auxiliary: President Linda Gobin, Vice President Cindy Houde, Recording Secretary Marta Arnold,  Corresponding Sandy Henderson, Treasurer Sue Davison, Chaplain Louise Gillespy, Historian Sandy Morris

New Firehouse – Station 4 (See April 1991)

 

New Apparatus: Truck 2, Sutphen Tower, sold in 2011 to Bville FD for 30k

 

 

 

Scholarship Winners: Sean Rubacky, Rebecca Jarvis

 

1001 Graduates

 

1991 Explorers

 

January 9th, 1991

 

Herald Journal
Dan Kane

 

Fire chief suspend for DWI charge

 

He drove fire vehicle in accident near Clay bar

 

A Moyers Corners deputy fire chief has been suspended after Clay police charged him with driving while intoxicated in a fire department vehicle. Deputy Chief Kenneth Brand was charged at 9:27 p.m. Dec. 21 after a two-vehicle accident at the entrance of the Euclid Hotel, a bar along Route 31 in Clay. He was driving a 1990 CMC station wagon the fire department assigned to him. "Within 24 hours of the incident, Deputy Chief Brand was temporarily relieved of his administrative duties and directed not to use the department vehicle," said Donald DiBenedetto, a Syracuse lawyer representing the fire department. "The vehicle has been removed from the deputy chief's custody. He no longer has control of the vehicle." DiBenedetto said the fire department's chief, two deputy chiefs and three battalion chiefs are assigned vehicles they can use to drive to fire calls. They also are allowed to drive them for personal use as long as the vehicles stay within the Moyers Corners fire district, DiBenedetto said. The Euclid Hotel is in the district, he said. Brand's car collided with a 1988 Ford pickup operated by Irving C. O'Neill, 22, of 7850 Brand was leaving the hotel's parking lot. No one was injured in the accident, according to the police report. Brand, 41, of 8406 Transit Lane, Baldwinsville, could not be reached for comment. He has been a deputy chief for the department for about four years and a member for about 20 years. He works for the Clay Town Highway Department. Moyers Corners Fire Chief Chet Fritz declined to comment on the suspension. DiBenedetto wouldn't say whether the suspension would continue until the charge goes to court. The accident was six days after a Moyers Corners fire truck slammed into the station, injuring six adults and five children. Brand was in the station's kitchen at the time of the accident. The fire truck, driven by-firefighter Richard Chicallo of Liverpool, was bringing Santa Claus to a  children's party at the fire station. The cause of the accident, state police said, was a stuck accelerator pedal. State Department of Motor Vehicle records show Brand has a clean record. The report said the fire department's station wagon sustained minor damage to the front bumper, while the other vehicle sustained minor damage to the driver's side.

 

 

 

January 25th, 1991

 

Herald Journal

 

County will investigate ambulance call

 

Amber Smith

 

On Nov. 27, James Konopelski of Liverpool found his 76-year-old mother, Mary, lying on the floor of her home. He knew she should be evaluated at a hospital. He dialed 425-3333. An Onondaga County dispatcher answered.

 

Konopelski told him what had happened; that it was no emergency but he wanted a Moyers Corners volunteer

 

ambulance to take his mother to Crouse Irving Memorial Hospital. Eastern Ambulance, Syracuse's commercial

 

service, arrived 13 minutes later at Mary Konopelski's home at 136 Riverdale Road. EASTERN BILLEDKonopelski $296.70 for the transport. The same trip in a Moyers Corners ambulance would have been free. "I thought I was very clear. I only  wanted Moyers Corners ambulance," Konopelski said. But Robert Reilly, Spokesman for Eastern, said dispatchers can't always abide by the caller's wishes. "We go by diagnosis, whether it sounds like an emergency or not," he said. In Konopelski's case, for instance, dispatchers interpreted his request for an ambulance as a non-life threatening emergency. He'd reported his mother had Parkinson's disease and had fallen and hit her head. EASTERN OFFERS two types of trans emergency.

 

 

 

A non-emergency run is a scheduled transfer, usually between hospitals or patients' homes and nursing homes. Prices range from $137 to $445, depending on the type of treatment rendered. Ronald Hernandez, director of the county's Emergency Medical Services department, said he and deputy fire coordinator Pete Alberti would review the incident by listening to the taped conversation between dispatchers and Konopelski. "We just want to see how this call went down and why Moyers Corners didn't go," Hernandez said. The Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department, the same as 17 of the county's 57 volunteer fire departments in Onondaga County, operates an emergency ambulance. IF THERE aren't any volunteers to staff the ambulance at a particular Lime, or if, the ambulance crew is handling another call, county dispatchers are supposed to send the closest ambulance. Often, that is Eastern. In recent years, volunteer department have stopped doing as many scheduled non-emergency transfers. "I can't blame them," said Greg Procopio, director of Greater Baldwinsville Ambulance Corps. "With the personnel shortage, you have to prioritize. You have to cover your emergencies first. "We used to do (non-emergency transfers) all the time. Since we've had a personnel crunch, it's a lesser priority." Konopelski said had he known Moyers Corners wasn't available, he would have driven his mother to the hospital in his car or called one of the medical transport companies in Syracuse.

 

 

 

April 1991

 

Moyers Corners Fire Department and Auxiliary Scholarship Winners

 

Lynn Jarvis and Sean Rubacky

 

New Pictures

 

 

 

April 18th, 1991
Grand Opening of Station 4
Engine 41 – 1981 Hahn, Rescue 4 – 1984 Autocar/Saulsbury
Members – Scott Krell, Robert Dreitlein Sr., Dave Ferguson, Mark Rubacky, Lt. Steve McGraw, Tom Catalino?, Steve Rubacky, Frank Brandao, John Kennedy, Lt. Ken Filow, Geoff Maes, Ed Laduke, Bill Siemers, Ron Sorrentino?

 

704 Calls answered by Station 4 in 1991 (April 18th -December 31st)

 

Fire Station Four was constructed in 1991 to meet the increasing demands associated with the growth and emergency responses in the northern and central response areas of the district that occurred throughout the 1980’s. Located on Oswego Road/Route 57 across from Seneca Mall, it has three apparatus bays, sleeping quarters, meeting and day rooms, and offices. The fire station’s response first due district was a composite of areas formally covered by Station One and Station Two, with its first manning compliment comprised of personnel from both respective stations. Original Station Four personnel included twenty-four firefighters. Currently, Station Four has 27 members

 

 

 

March 5th, 1991

 

Woman Plans To Sue Over Fire Truck Accident

 

The Post-Standard

 

By John O’Brien

 

At least one person plans to sue the Moyers Corners Fire Department over injuries she suffered last year when a fire truck crashed through the back wall of the firehouse into a children's Christmas party. Kathleen Chura, 27, filed a notice of claim two weeks ago, saying she intends to sue the fire department over its failure to properly maintain the fire truck before the Dec. 15 accident. The driver of the fire truck, Richard Chicallo, told police the accelerator pedal dropped to the floor and that he could not get it unstuck before the truck smashed through the wall at the firehouse at the corner of routes 57 and 31 in Clay. Just minutes before the crash, the pedal stuck two other times as Chicallo was en route to the firehouse, he told police. But he was able to easily free it with his foot, Chicallo said. An inspection of the fire truck by the state Department of Transportation showed the gas pedal stuck because it was connected to the fuel injector by a rusty part that needed lubrication. 

The emergency engine shut-off system also was not working because of a loose wire, the DOT inspection showed. Chura claims the accident was the result of the fire department's negligence in its inspection, maintenance and operation of the fire engine, a 1976 pumper truck. She suffered a broken right foot, a sprained ankle, and bruises and injuries to her back and legs. Chura's aunt, Kathleen Murdock, 88, also was injured in the crash. Murdock has retained William Lynn, who is also Chura's lawyer. Murdock, who suffered broken ribs in the accident, was hospitalized for three weeks. Lynn said he plans to file a notice of claim for Murdock before a three-month deadline expires. Nine other people were injured in the crash, in which the fire truck plowed through a rear wall at Station 1. A lawyer for the fire department could not be reached for comment. Chicallo, a volunteer firefighter, was transporting David Evans, another volunteer firefighter who was dressed as Santa Claus. ``We were planning to surprise a group of children . . . with the appearance of Santa Claus,'' Chicallo said in his statement to police. ``I have no idea what caused the accelerator to drop to the floor like it did.''

 

 

 

March 22nd, 1991
By Molly Fennel, Staff Writer Syracuse Post Standard:

 

Growth promps call for fourth Moyers Corners firehouse

 

The MCFD is adding a fourth fire station so volunteers can respond more quickly to fires and other emergencies in the rapidly developing district. If events go according to plan, the fire department will break ground on the 625k building in July and move in sometime in February 1990, said Scott Krell, chairman of the construction committee. “There are lots of new developments off Soule Road, and our other stations are just too far away” Krell said. “Hopefully, with this station we can cut down on response time”. The new station will sit on the east side of route 57 north of Seneca Mall. The location is about two miles south of MCFD Station 1. Moyers Corners Fire Chief Chet Fritz said the department conducted a survey of the fire district and found so much growth in the Soule Road area they decided to build the new station near there. The department will redistribute its existing equipment and staff when the fourth station opens. Firefighters from Station 1 and firefighters from Station 2 will form the core of No. 4’s staff, Krell said. The department’s third station at Taft and Henry Clay will not be affected. In Addition, the department will create 15 positions for volunteer firefighters. Krell said he hopes a newly constructed firehouse will lure new volunteers at a time when they’re becoming scarce. “When Fire Station No. 1 was built, it was on the edge of our fire district, out in the sticks, “ he said. “With this firehouse being closer to peoples’ houses, it might get them to volunteer.” Krell said he lives near Soule Road and often became frustrated that it took him so long to get to Fire Station No. 1 to respond to fires. “I’d get out there and the trucks would already be gone,” he said. “This new one will be pretty much in my back yard, I plan to be one of the first responders.”

 

 

 

The Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department works under contract, with most of its fire protection district in the Town of Clay, one of the state’s fastest growing areas, Fritz said. Krell said money from the towns where Moyers Corners provides fire services will offset the construction and operating costs.  The MCFD includes more the 42,000 people and more the $1 billion in property, fire chief Fritz said. In 1988, the fire department responded to more than 1000 calls to fires and traffic accidents. Krell headed the committee that spent a year planning what the new fire hall should include. They recently hired architects from Hueber Hares Glavin to design the building and plan to award a construction bid by the end of May.

 

 

 

Fire Station No. 4 will be smaller than Moyers Corners’ other three fire houses. It will cover about 9000 square feet and have room for four pieces of equipment and gear for about 45 firefighters, Krell said.

 

Fire Station No. 4 will have a small lounge and kitchen are for the firefighters. IT also will provide a common place for the department’s executive offices, which now are spread across three stations. The fire department will start service from Station No. 4 with a rescue truck and a pumper, Krell said. Fritz said the department also will order new jackets and boots for the volunteers out of Station No. 4. By contrast, the other three stations have room for a least six pieces of firefighting equipment. Fire Station No. 1 includes a recreation room and banquet, kitchen, and dining room.

 

 

 

By Molly Fennel, Staff Writer Syracuse Post Standard

 

 

 

April 15th, 1991

 

Ambulance Mega-Merger

 

The Post-Standard

 

By Charley Hannagan

 

TALKS ARE under way among four groups to create a super ambulance corps serving more than 150,000 people in the county's northern suburbs. The merger of the Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department Ambulance Corps, the Greater Baldwinsville Ambulance Corps, Liverpool Volunteer Fire Department Ambulance Squad and North Area Volunteer Ambulance Corps would produce a corps that would serve northeastern Onondaga County, which includes some of the fastest growing areas in Central New York. ``We thought that by merging, we could provide better patient care,'' said Michael J. Begnoche, administrator of the Moyers Corners Ambulance Corps. The proposed merger was prompted by some corps' need to become financially stable and to pool resources and volunteers, ambulance officials said. The super corps would have more than 240 volunteers, 12 ambulances and three medic cars to serve Baldwinsville, Liverpool, Clay, Cicero, Salina, Lysander and Van Buren. Merging could be an advantage to everyone involved, say officials exploring the proposal. 

All of the corps survive on donations or fund-raisers, and a merger would provide much needed cash to less profitable corps. Two of the corps, Moyers Corners and Liverpool, are associated with fire departments, which limits their ability to bill insurance companies for their services, Begnoche said. It takes $120,000 to operate his corps, and most of that money comes from donations, he said. Because the Moyers Corners Fire Department is a non-profit group, it can't give financial aid to the ambulance corps, he said. The department does, however, provide the corps with free space to run its operations, Begnoche said. Moyers Corners wants to bill insurance companies for ambulance service, Begnoche said. But, he said, ``As long as we're associated with a fire department we can't do that.'' Corps that aren't associated with fire departments, such as NAVAC, can bill insurance companies, he said. Billing is one way for squads that are continually squeezed for funds to stay alive, ambulance officials said. Volunteers charge a much lower fee than those charged by private ambulance services, they said. ``Billing for services is one way to keep a volunteer status and not charge what a commercial ambulance charges,'' said John Muldoon, chairman of the Liverpool ambulance committee exploring the merger. 

Moyers Corners' desire to merge with another ambulance squad to become financially stable was circulating on the grapevine when it was picked up by people in Baldwinsville, said David S. Weller, Baldwinsville's director of operations. The corps then approached Moyers Corners about a possible merger, he said. Baldwinsville's corps was organized in 1962 and is one of the oldest in the state. It's not associated with a fire department, and doesn't need a merger to stay profitable, he said. ``We're financially stable,'' Weller said. It approached Moyers Corners about a merger because the corps is interested in pooling its resources and volunteers to provide better service to the community, Weller said. The corps currently has three ambulances and a ``fly car'' designed to arrive at the scene with equipment and a medic before an ambulance. It also has 60 volunteers and one full-time paid person to supplement volunteers during the day. ``That still left us short somedays,'' Weller said. Baldwinsville's members have told corps executives to ``cautiously'' move ahead with merger negotiations. Moyers Corners' members also have given the go-ahead to their officials. 

Meanwhile, Liverpool and NAVAC officials have yet to approach their members with the proposal. There just aren't enough facts yet to make a decision, Muldoon said. The talks are still in the early stages, and there are still many questions to be answered before a merger takes place. It will be at least six months to a year before a merger occurs, Weller said. ``We're going to have to map this out very well before it takes place, and look at the pros and cons very carefully,'' he said. ``I think we can make it work.'' No one knows where the headquarters for the super corps would be located, or what form the organizational structure would take. 
``There's a tremendous amount of compromise that has to occur for the groups to make the merger friendly,'' said Dickran S. Garbooshian, director of NAVAC, the largest of the four corps. Garbooshian said he's cautious about a merger, but he's willing to work with the other groups to assist them with the proposals. There's not enough information available for the county to give to bless or curse the proposal, according to Ronald R. Hernandez, director of the county's Emergency Medical Services Bureau. ``If that helps them by sharing resources, that's fine. If it just becomes a larger group with not enough people there could be problems,'' he said. While police departments have merged to provide better service, the talks under way are the first to involve ambulance corps, Hernandez said. The merger doesn't need state or county approval to take place, he said. While the corps are cautious, officials said they feel that something needs to be done to improve service. 
``I think it's to the point now we have to join resources to work toward a common goal,'' Muldoon said.

 

 

 

May 1991

 

MCFD Banquet

 

 

 

May 6th, 1991

 

Auxiliary Installation Banquet at Pensebene’s Park West

 

 

 

May 26th, 1991

 

Herald Journal, Brian Carr

 

Ambulance service sounds financial siren

 

The Moyers Corners ambulance service says it needs money. The backup ambulance is up for sale, and the service has approached three other ambulance districts about the possibility of merging. At the current rate, officials say, the service will be broke in eight months. The 52 ambulance workers and volunteers will start a door-to-door fund-raising drive next month, something they haven't done for years."Our backs are against the wall," said Moyers Corners ambulance spokesman Michael Begnoche. "We are also considering the possibility of having to divest from the fire department and start third-party billing, which is what NA VAC does." The North Area Volunteer Ambulance Corps, the area's largest volunteer ambulance service, began charging patients S150 per can in June 1990. “We anticipate we will be able to stay in business for probably another six to eight months,” Begnoche said. “After that, it depends on our fund drive.” It takes 5120,000 a year to operate the two Moyers Corners ambulances, stationed at the corner of Routes 57 and 31 and the intersection of Morgan and Buckley Roads in Clay. "We are in trouble financially." said assistant ambulance administrator Jerry Streeter. "People just aren't able to give as much as years ago. But like everything else our expenses are going up."  The Moyers Corners ambulances have been in operation for 11 years, covering an area from Horseshoe Island to the north to Electronics Parkway to the south.

 

 

 

The area has 20.000 homes and business and about 65,500 residents, Begnoche said. Although the ambulances are housed in fire stations, the Moyers Corners service does not run on tax dollars. It depends on private donations. "The ambulance is part of the fire department, but it is a separate medical rescue squad," said Stephen Wisely, president of the Moyers Corners Fire Department board. "They do not get taxpayer's money." Much of the financial crunch comes from the purchase of a 594,000 ambulance in 1989 and a S62.000 ambulance in 1990 to replace other ambulances that were breaking down. They were bought on the assumption that if private donations fell off. the ambulance company could start third-party billing — charging insurance companies for the ambulance runs. But sjnce Moyers Corners is a part of the fire department, it cannot issue bills."We have spoken to NAVAC, Liverpool and Baldwinsville about the possibility of merging," Begnoche said, adding that discussions are still in the early stages. The fire department would not be merged.

 

 

 

May 28th, 1991

 

Herald Journal

 

Rescue company on the rocks, Moyers corners says it could be broke within eight months

 

Brian Carr

 

The Moyers Corners ambulance service says it need money, stat. The backup ambulance is up for sale, and the service has approached three other ambulance districts about the possibility of merging. At the current rate, officials say, the service will be broke in eight months. The 52 ambulance workers and volunteers will start a door-to-door fund raising drive next month, something they haven't done for years. "Our backs are against the wail," said Moyers Corners ambulance spokesman Michael Begnoche. "We are also considering the possibility of having to divest from the fire department and start third-party billing, which is which is what NAVAC does." The North Area Volunteer Ambulance Corps, the area’s largest volunteer ambulance service, began charging patients S150 per call in June 1990. "We anticipate we will be able to stay in business for probably another six to eight months," Begnoche said. "After that depends on our fund drive." It takes 5120,000 a year to operate the two Moyers Corners ambulances, stationed at the corner of Routes 57 and 31 and the intersection of Morgan and Buckley Roads in Clay. The Moyers Corners ambulances have been in operation for 11 years, covering from Horseshoe Island to the North to Electronics Parkway to the south. There are 20.000 homes and business in their service area, and about 65,500 residents. Begnoche said. "We have spoken to NAVAC, Liverpool and Baldwinsville about the possibility of merging." he said, adding that discussions are still in the early stages. The fire department would not be merged.

 

 

 

June 9th, 1991

 

Auxiliary Chicken BBQ at Station 1

 

Martha Arnold chaired the event which was very successful.

 

New Pictures

 

 

 

June 10th, 1991 
Engine 12 – Hush goes in service as Engine 41

 

 

 

June 12th, 1991

 

Station 4 Grand Opening

 

 

 

June 14th, 1991
Mutual Aid To NSFD – Agway Store Fire

 

Hazmat 3 and BC3 responded

 

 

 

June 20th, 1991
Route 57 and John Glenn Boulevard

 

Rescue 4, Engine 22, Ambulance 1, Eastern Amulance responded to a roll over accident with a full arrest.

 

 

 

June 20th, 1991

 

Driver Killed as Car Creeps Past Red Light

 

Herald Journal

 

By Charles Miller
A 56-year-old Liverpool woman was killed today and a Bridgeport man seriously injured when their vehicles collided in the town of Clay, Onondaga County sheriff's deputies said.  Leatrice Rodriguez of 2310 Chancery Lane was southbound on Route 57 and stopped at a red light at the intersection with John Glenn Boulevard in Clay.  At 6:15 a.m., her 1989 Chevrolet Cavalier crept past the light into the path of an oncoming pickup truck, witnesses told investigators.  ``She had a red light and should have been stopped,'' sheriff's spokesman Robert Burns said. ``Her car slowly moved forward. We still don't know why she was going through the light.''  Tracey A. Bort, 33, of Bridgeport was driving his 1987 Ford pickup truck westbound on John Glenn Boulevard. He stepped on the brakes but crashed broadside into the woman's car, deputies said.  Bort's truck flipped onto its side.  Deputies said he was traveling 55 mph, the speed limit.  They theorized that Rodriguez may have leaned over or inadvertantly taken her foot off her brake pedal.  Rescue workers from the Moyers Corner Fire Department removed Bort from his truck at about 6:30 a.m. He was taken to University Hospital, where he was being treated for multiple injuries. A nursing supervisor listed his condition as serious. Rodriguez was pronounced dead at the scene.

 

 

 

June 29th, 1991
Route 57 at Seneca Mall Entrance

 

Rescue 4, Engine 11, Ambulance 1, Eastern Ambulance responded to a Car vs. Pole with a full arrest.

 

 

 

July 8th, 1991

 

The Aftermath of a Fire

 

Herald Journal

 

Embers fade, but not bad dreams

 

In 1989, the average fire in Onondaga County caused $4,521 in damage, according to the state office of fire prevention and control. There are injuries — either to firefighters or residents — in six out of 10 fires.

 

"The damage really goes far beyond what people think," said Peter Alberti, acting fire coordinator for Onondaga County Fire Control. "Even a little smoke goes a long way." "ONCE THE fire department and investigators pick up and leave the scene, homeowners often find themselves in a loss of what to do," said Christopher Naum, a captain with the Moyers Corners Fire Department. "Homeowners are typically in a state of shock." That's partly because fires are much worse than what people see in movies. One example: the film "Backdraft"  depicts a scene in which the officer Kurt Russell emerges from a burning room holding a child in his arms. "This gives the public the wrong sense of what is survivable and a false sense of security of being able to get out easily if a fire occurs," said Naum, a firefighter for 16 years. "(Russell) does not have an airtank on, his coat is unbuttoned, the child is fully conscious, and there is l i t t l e smoke," said Naum. "In a real fire you would not have been able to see beyond the smoke, and the firefighter would not have survived like that, let alone the child."

 

 

 

July 17th, 1991
Engine 11, pictures

 

 

 

August 7th, 1991

 

Herald Journal

 

Solange, M. Louissaint

 

Ambulance corps plan merger
“Losing money, Moyers Corners decides to combine with Baldwinsville corps”

 

The Moyers Corners Ambulance Corps has decided to merge with another company because it cannot raise enough money to operate on its own. Moyers Corners members voted July 18 to consider a merger and corps officials later decided Greater Baldwinsville Ambulance Corps would be a good partner, said Michael Begnoche, Moyers Corners ambulance administrator. The merger, still in the planning stages, will take six months to a year to finalize, said Greg Procopio, past director of the Greater Baldwinsville Ambulance Corps and must be approved by the state Department of Health. Officials have not decided on a name for the new unit. Moyers Corners was losing $60,000 a year, Begnoche said. An April mail fundraiser netted $35,000.Many of the financial problems come from the purchase of a $94,000 ambulance in 1989 and a $62,000 ambulance in 1990 to replace two others, Begnoche said. "The ambulances were six years old, which is a long time for an ambulance because they run pretty hard," he said. It costs $120,000 a year to operate the two Moyers Corners ambulances. One is stationed at the firehouse at routes 57 and 31; the other at intersection of Morgan and Buckley roads in Clay.

 

 

 

Linda Foster, a paramedic and past Moyers Corners Ambulance administrator, said some members feel the merger is being forced on them. "The members of the ambulance squad possible avenues of direction for the future of the squad," Foster said. Sixteen people voted to pursue the idea of a merger and 13 people voted not to merge but to consider a re-organization, Foster said. "That vote didn't say to merge with x department or y department. We seem to be locked into a merger with GBAC," she said. Begnoche said corps and fire department officials decided after the vote to merge with Baldwinsville. "Instead of just continuing informal meetings, the fire department felt it would be better to direct our efforts towards a merger with one department, and that being Baldwinsville," Begnoche said. "There's still the possibility that we could merge with somebody else," Begnoche said. If Moyers doesn't merge with Baldwinsville, officials would consider merging with the Phoenix or Liverpool ambulance corps, Begnoche said. Moyers Corners will be out in the fall to raise more money, he said. "If we could get an extra $70,000 a year, we might not have to merge," he said. James Hawley, president of the Baldwinsville corps since March, favors a merger. "The best thing we can do is pool our resources together which includes our medical personnel, our dollars and our equipment in an attempt to provide the best possible service we can," he said. Procopio said merging with Moyers Corners would allow the ambulance volunteers to raise more money. He said they would be able to supplement volunteer services with paid personnel. "We're providing patient care right now but there are times when we do not have enough advance life support providers on hand," Begnoche said. Baldwinsville has more advance life support providers, he said.

 

 

 

After the merger, the Moyers Corners' ambulance will no longer be housed at the fire departments, Begnoche said. The ambulances are going to be housed in the Moyers Corners district, but exactly where has yet to be decided, he said. Moyers Corners has been operating for 11 years. It includes 20,000 homes and businesses and provides service to about 65,500 residents. The area covers Horseshoe Island to the north to Electronics Parkway to the south. The Baldwinsville ambulance corps serves more than 50,000 people in Baldwinsville School District, Belgium Cold Springs Fire District, the Lakeside Fire District and portions of Phoenix and the Seneca River Fire District.

 

 

 

October 24th, 1991

 

Rummage Sale at Station 1. Doris Jackson, Christine Loop, Louise Gillespy chaired the event. $204.87 was made.

 

 

 

November 1991

 

Live Fire Training at Dewitt Tower Pictures

 

 

 

November 5th, 1991

 

1015 Cloister Court – Trailer Fire

 

 

 

November 22nd, 1991

 

2213 Cotswold Court

 

Trailer Fire

 

BC2, BC3, Car 3, Engine 21, Engine 31, Engine 32, Engine 11, Truck 1, Rescue 4
The Post Standard
By Mike Fish
A family in Liverpool lost most of their possessions when fire struck their trailer home, but their two dogs were saved because they weren't getting along.  Arlene and Carl Streiff lost their furnishings and probably most of their clothes, but Black Velvet, an 8-week-old Labrador retriever puppy, and Buttons, an 8-year-old chihuahua, escaped injury because they were learning to get along during a car ride. The fire started a few minutes after Arlene Streiff and her son Shawn, 14, left home to run an errand. Arlene Streiff, who has brought along the puppy on just about every car trip since she bought him Sunday, decided to bring the chihuahua, too. ``She's downright nasty,'' Streiff said of the older dog. ``We've been trying to get them to get along so they don't bark.'' The Moyers Corners and Belgium Cold Springs fire departments responded. Timothy Chura, battalion chief for Moyers Corners fire department , said the trailer at 2213 Cotswold Court in the Casual Estates trailer park, was heavily damaged by fire in the rear and by smoke and water throughout. It was not immediately clear what started the fire, which was called in at 12:08 p.m. The owners have eight other grown children, several of whom own homes in the area, including Paul, who took them in.

 

 

 

 

 

December 29th, 1991

 

Plymouth Meeting Apartments Building 6 – Structure Fire

 

Cars 1,2,3 BC2,3, Truck 1, Engine 11, Rescue 4, Engine 41, Engine 11, M1, Engine 21, Engine 22, Truck 2, Engine 31, Engine 32, Hazmat 3

 

 

 

1992
Chief 
 First Deputy Chief: 
Second Deputy Chief 
Battalion 1 Chief 
Battalion 2 Chief 
Battalion 3 Chief John Perkins
Station 1 Captain
Station 2 Captains 
Station 3 Captains 
Station 4 Captain 
Station 1 Lieutenants:

 

Station 2 Lieutenants:

 

Station 3 Lieutenants:

 

Station 4 Lieutenants: 

 

Executive Board
 President 
Vice President 
Secretary, Assistant Secretary 
Treasurer, Assistant Treasurer 

 

Fire Police:  Captain Bob Swahn 
 Lieutenants: Ken Brand Sr., Dick Kyle, Dave Ferguson

 

 

 

Ambulance Admins: Administrator, 1st Assistant, 2nd Assistant,
 3rd Assistant

 

 

 

Auxiliary: President Cindy Houde, Vice President Lorraine Sahm, Recording Secretary Betty Hanlon,  Corresponding Secretary Jean Jones, Treasurer Sandy Morris, Chaplain Jo Guinta and Clara Marshall

 

 

 

Scholarship Winners: Jarod Blake and Kristin Race

 

New Apparatus: Engine 41 1992 E-One, later became Engine 12

 

News Channel 3 Story on Truck 2
Interview with Lieutenant Bob Driscoll:

 

“We have a lot of apartments and business, manufacturing in this area which would require us to have a piece like this to maintain our high standard of performance here. That’s the reason we do have a one-hundred foot aerial platform. It’s not that we have a lot of real tall buildings, but if we are operating from the road we are able to put our aerial out over these buildings to reach the inner most parts of them. That’s basically the reason why we have this. It’s a fine piece, it will continue to provide the best coverage we can give them out here as we have been all along. The old one is sitting in our station now, it’s for sale. It’s being advertised. It’s still in service until we get enough people qualified on the new piece. The other one is still running, it’s still in service. It’s twenty-two years old and that’s one of the major reasons why we have replaced it. We are hoping the new one is up and running somewhere around February 16th. As long as we have enough people that are qualified to drive it and operate it. The old waterhog will still be around.”

 

January 21st, 1992
Fire Aftermath
Post Standard
Picture
Fire Investigator Marty Judge shovels out debris in the search of a cause of a fire in a mobile home at 6713 Ebury Court in Clay. No injuries were reported. The fire was reported at 1:30pm. The occupants of the mobile home, Mark Lovejoy and David Stone, were not home.

 

March 6th, 1992
Auxiliary Fish Dinner at Station 1. Norma Guinta and Sue Romanick co-chaired. The auxiliary had four fish dinners in 1992. In total, 1,074 adults and 59 children were served with a profit of $2,160.47. 
New Pictures

 

March 16th, 1992
Post Standard
Volunteer Firefighters accused of sounding false alarms at hotel
A Moyers Corners volunteer firefighter set off two false fire alarms Saturday at Hotels at Syracuse Square, then tried to force people to evacuate by yelling at them and barged into their rooms, police said. Scott E. Hughes, 28, of Liverpool is accused of setting off alarms that reverberated through four floors of the hotel during the St. Patrick’s Day celebration, police said. After the alarms went off, Hughes shouted to people on the third and fourth floors that they should leave the building, police said. He also forced his way into three rooms and shoved the occupants toward their doors, insisting “that he was a fireman and that there was, indeed, a fire,” police said. In one room, police said, Hughes called the hotel operator and told her there was a fire in that room, police said. Hughes, who was later arrested in the 100 block of Harrison Street, was charged with two misdemeanor counts of falsely reporting an incident, police said.

 

March 30th, 1992
Drill house burn down, pictures

 

April 2nd, 1992 
Herald Journal
 Woman dies after rescue from fire  By Cindy E. Rodriguez

 

A Liverpool woman who had been trapped in her burning apartment died today, about 10 hours after Moyers Corners firefighters carried her from the building. Janet A. Haskell, 34, of the Case Grande Villa complex apartment A-8, died about 7 a.m. at University Hospital. The fire broke out at about 9 p.m. Wednesday. After the fire, a girl emerged from a car and ran to the front of the house screaming, “What happened to my mother?” It was Haskell’s 14 year old daughter, Tiffany. Tiffany and her friend, Mindy Manzietti, 16, were at Carousel Center when the fire began.

 

 

 

Lt. Dave Munski and firefighter Dan Siek arrived at the apartment complex a few minutes after the alarm at 9:13 p.m. They saw smoke coming from the apartment, one in a row of brick townhouse style apartments lining Grande Villa Drive, off Route 57. The door was open, so the two walked in. Munski led the way, and Siek followed with a hose. Haskell, wearing a purple cotton nightgown, was lying a few feet from the door on the carpet near a burning sofa. The room was filled with smoke. The temperature was about 250 degrees. Siek picked up Haskell under her arms and Munski carried her legs. They brought her to the front of the door, where paramedics took over. “My heart was pounding,” said Munski, who has been with the department five years but had never rescued anyone from a fire. “My adrenaline was flowing.”

 

 

 

Fire Chief Chet Fritz said the fire started on the sofa. The cause is being investigated, he said. The fire was confined to the apartment, which was damaged by heat and fire. No one else was injured. Through the shattered first-floor picture window, a few of the remains could be seen. All that was left of the sofa was the coil springs and frame, some of the remaining foam was the color of charcoal. Above the sofa’s frame, fire burned a hole in the ceiling sheetrock, exposing wooden planks.

 

 

 

News Interview with Chief Chet Fritz: 
“We had smoke showing and report of people trapped. We got inside and found a victim shortly after we got inside. Female..I have no idea how old she was. We got her out, got her some medical attention. We went an suppressed the fire. It was really charged with heat and smoke. There was no problem finding the building at all. When you got people trapped, you want to get them out of there you want to rescue them. We got to her as quickly as we could. Lieutenant Munski, Firefighter Siek and myself were the first three in. We grabbed her and got her outside. She was located about five or six feet in the front door. She looked to be in bad shape.”

 

 

 

April 3rd, 1992 
Truck Hauling acid waste overturns in Town of Clay 
Herald Journal
 Jeff Light

 

A tanker truck full of acid waste overturned today at Morgan and Crown roads in Clay. Police closed the roads as a precaution. A little acid spilled but nobody was hurt. Emergency spill teams from the state DEC were called to oversee the transfer of the acid to another truck. “The truck has had only a small amount of leakage right at the valve,” said DEC spokeswoman Kate Lacey. She said the tanker contained ferrous chloride, an acid waste material from a pickling operation.

 

Picture of driscoll and Jennings…by Mike Waters

 

Eagle Brook Tanker

 

 

 

April 4th, 1992

 

Auxiliary Spring Craft Show at Station 1. Sandy Morris chaired the event with a profit of $2,401.23.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

May 14th, 1992
Fire Destroys a trailer in the town of clay
Herald Journal
By Amber Smith

 

A fire this morning destroyed a trailer in Casual Estates in the town of Clay. Fire investigators are looking for a cause. 

Moyers Corners Fire Department Battalion Chief John Perkins said the trailer at 3523 Berkeley Court was ``burning end to end. They couldn't get inside when they got here.''

 

 

 

May 15th, 1992
Trailer fire, pictures

 

 

 

May 18th, 1992

 

Auxiliary Installation Banquet at Red Door North in Pennellville.

 

President Cindy Houde, Vice President Lorraine Sahm, Recording Secretary Betty Hanlon, Corresponding Secretary Jean Jones, Treasurer Sandy Morris.

 

 

 

May 21st, 1992
Truck gallery, pictures

 

 

 

May 25th, 1992

 

Herald Journal

 

Volunteer fire companies may merge..exerpt

 

Chet Fritz is chief of Moyers Corners, one of the biggest volunteer fire departments in the county He likes the idea of a consolidated purchasing ageno bu>mg such things as tires and hoses getting lower prices by buying in volume But he said the department doesn't want to grow because the administrative duties are already equal to a full-time job He said fire departments next to Moyers Corners work together, responding to each other's fires at times to make sure someone is at the scene quickly. Gone are the days when firefighters would be lambasted for arriving after a rival department "We've evolved to the point where we’re saying. 'Let's look at the big picture, we're here to serv e the public." 'he said

 

 

 

June 1992

 

MCFD Demonstration at K-Mart Seneca Mall. 
Members of the MCFD were on hand to demonstrate to children the clothing they wear while fighting fires to protect themselves. The auxiliary purchased the equipment for the fire department.

 

 

 

June 18th, 1992

 

MCFD and Auxiliary Scholarship winners Jarod Blake and Kristin Race New Pictures

 

 

 

August 30th, 1992

 

Chicken BBQ at Station 1. Norma Guinta chaired the event. Fed 307 people with a profit of $1,015.20. Winner of the 50/50 raffle was Nick Zewiecki. Left over chicken was donated to the Unity Kitchen of Syracuse.

 

 

 

September 23rd, 1992

 

Man’s Death Seen As Suicide

 

The Post-Standard

 

By Scott Scanlon
The widow of a Liverpool man who drowned in the Oneida River Tuesday morning believes her husband took his life because he was upset about his diabetes. Guy E. Hamilton, 74, of 4320 Arlington Circle, Apt. F-4, was diagnosed with the condition about two months ago, Rita Hamilton said. Since then, her husband had been lethargic and had trouble sleeping, she said, adding that even prescription sleeping pills didn't help. His listlessness caused him to leave a security job at hypodermic needle-making business in North Syracuse last week, she said. Rita Hamilton said she had talked to her husband several times, telling him that diabetes is common and treatable, but that he remained "very depressed." Hamilton left his apartment sometime before 8 a.m. "fully aware of what he was doing," his wife said. She said he did not tell her where he was going and did not take his billfold. 

About 10:40 a.m., a woman stopped at the Three Rivers Apartments in Clay, at the south end of the Three Rivers Bridge, and told manager Rie Still that a man was floating near the north shore of the river. "I just snapped to action," said Still, a certified nurse's aide. She called the Moyers Corners Fire Department , then ran across the bridge and waded into the water up to her knees. She then pulled Hamilton to the rocky river bank under the north end of the bridge. Hamilton's two-toned blue Ford station wagon was parked along a fence nearby, on an access road off county Route 57. Still's only thoughts, she said, were "getting the man out, praying for God to help me, and hoping just a little bit that I could revive him." Kenneth Keeney, who lives just west of the bridge, was having coffee with his wife when they heard a commotion outside. He held Hamilton as Still tried to revive him. "There was no pulse," Keeney said. Rescue workers from the Phoenix and Moyers Corners fire departments also tried to revive Hamilton, who was taken to St. Joseph's Hospital Health Center in Syracuse by Moyers Corners Volunteer Ambulance. He was pronounced dead at the hospital at 11:33 a.m.

 

 

 

 

 

October 22nd, 1992

 

Rummage Sale at Station 1. Doris Jackson and Natalie Hunter chaired the event with a profit of $362.62. Left over coats and mittens were donated to the Baldwinsville Baptist Church.

 

 

 

November 10th, 1992
Persimmon Path Fire, pictures
 News Interview with Chet Fritz:
“When we pulled up this house was fully involved. Espcially in the garage area extending up to the second floor bedroom quarters. We got some lines on it, we got inside, we cut the fire off. We’ve thrown some tarps in there in the living room and I guess what is the dining area but there is extensive damage here this evening, or this morning I should say.”

 

December 13th 1992 – Tri-R Fire
Chet Fritz: Ron Turiello was the Chief in charge of the Bayberry fire and it may be well to get his recollecions of that event. It may have been one of our "finest hours" in terms of the Department's efforts. Bud Newman was in the helocopter that day overseeing our efforts and he might have information to add.

 

 

 

December 14th, 1992

 

Herald Journal

 

Katherine Scobey

 

Fire rips two shops in Bayberry plaza

 

A drug store and a hair salon were ruined in a fire in the Bayberry Shopping Center Sunday. Investigators

 

are looking for a cause Shoppers and employees in Tri R Drugs fled the building without injury when fire broke out at about 12 20 p m., said Ron Turiello, battalion chief of Moyers Corners Fire Department Tri-R Drugs and Bayberry Hairstylists were damaged severely. Two other businesses, Lucky House Chinese take-out and Bayberry Dental Office, were damaged by smoke and when firefighters cut open the roof to stop the spread of fire, Turiello said. Fire investigators had to stop their search for a cause Sunday when the roof partially collapsed, said Peter Alberti, assistant fire coordinator for Onondaga County. The investigation was to continue today with a professional wrecking crew to make sure the roof is safe.

 

 

 

The Bayberry Shopping Center is owned by Joseph Jankowski, Turiello said Next to Tn-R Drugs is a vacant Big M market, it was not damaged The fire sent a mushroom of dark gray smoke into the bright blue sky over Clay. Traffic slowed to a crawl on Route 57. People milled around the parking lot of the plaza, watching firefighters work and taking pictures. Six volunteer fire departments fought the fire Moyers Corners, Liverpool, North Syracuse, Clay, Belgium-Cold Springs and Baldwinsville  Five firefighters suffered minor injuries, Turiello said. Two were burned on the neck by hot tar dripping from the roof One cut his eye, one suffered heat exhaustion, and one was hit by a falling shelf. All were treated at the scene.

 

 

 

December 14th, 1992

 

Fire guts two shops in Bayberry Plaza

 

Herald Journal

 

Jim Reilly

 

Twenty hours after fire ruined his drugstore and damaged his Bayberry Shopping Center in Clay, Joe Jankowski was regrouping and rebuilding. Fire destroyed the Tri-R Neighborhood Pharmacy and an adjacent barber shop and beauty salon Sunday afternoon and damaged at least two other stores in the Bayberry plaza along Route 57 Investigators this morning were looking for the cause of the blaze. Jankowski said he blames a heater in the barber shop, which shares a wall with the drugstore. More than 100 firefighters responded to the blaze, reported at 12:20 p.m. Five suffered minor injuries. Two were burned on the neck by hot tar dripping from the roof. One cut his eye, one suffered heat exhaustion, and one was hit by a falling shelf. All were treated at the scene. "Some guys took a hell of a beating yesterday," said Moyers Corners Fire Chief Chet Fritz today. "That whole mall could have burned down if the guys hadn't gotten inside and done some good aggressive work under some damn dangerous conditions." "My biggest priority right now is getting people's prescriptions filled," Jankowski said this morning. Calls to the Bayberry Tri-R were being rerouted to the Phoenix store, one of five he owns. By 8 a.m. today, he had a crew in adjacent to the drug store, hammering together a makeshift pharmacy. The store is vacant; Jankowski  "This is the worst time of year to be out of business," he said. He said he hoped to have the owners of the Lucky House Chinese restaurant and Bayberry Dental Center back in business by today or Tuesday. It will take a lot longer for his drugstore and the barber shop and beauty salon. Jankowski estimated his losses between $2 million and $5 million

 

 

 

December 14th, 1992
Auxiliary Christmas Banquet at the Cobblestone Hotel, Liverpool. President Cindy Houde presented Hatie Karker with a poinsettia from the auxiliary to enjoy during the holiday season.

 

1993
Chief Chet Fritz
 First Deputy Chief: Greg Tiner
Second Deputy Chief Tim Chura
Battalion 1 Chief Ken Filow
Battalion 2 Chief Ron Turiello
Battalion 3 Chief John Perkins
Station 1 Captain Greg Mazza
Station 2 Captains Steve Bressette, Colin Bailey
Station 3 Captains Ed Wisnowski, Jeff Wisely 
Station 4 Captain Steve McGraw
Station 1 Lieutenants: Greg Wild, Rich Chicallo

 

Station 2 Lieutenants: Bob Driscoll, Steve Fedorko, Mike Alder, Bob Michelson

 

Station 3 Lieutenants: Steve Dembowski, Ed Stevens, Jim Wisnowski

 

Station 4 Lieutenants: Shawn Crispin, Steve Rubacky

 

Executive Board
 President Frank Brandaio
Vice President Richard Perkins 
Secretary Dan Miller, Assistant Secretary Jim McGork 
Treasurer Mike LeFebvre, Assistant Treasurer Geoff Maes 

 

Fire Police:  Captain Bob Swahn 
 Lieutenants: Ken Brand Sr., Dick Kyle, Dave Ferguson

 

 

 

Ambulance Admins: Administrator Bill Gonsa, 1st Russ Ziskind, 2nd Assistant Dale Cuny,
 3rd Assistant Fred Sears

 

 

 

Auxiliary: President Cindy Houde, Vice President Lorraine Sahm, Recording Secretary Joyce Bressette/Marta Arnold,  Corresponding Secretary Jean Jones, Treasurer Sandy Morris, Chaplain Jo Guinta

 

 

 

New Apparatus: E11, E-One Glider Kit using the 1976 Hahn

 

 

 

Chet Fritz final year as Department Chief. His thoughts and accomplishments as he remembers: On my watch as Chief I think the most important thing accomplished was having the late Willie Michaelson as the departments rep to the town Planning Board. No commercial structures built in the town, including the GNM, were constructed without hydrants 250' from a standpipe. Not only that, but roads were built that circled all COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES wide enough to accomodate the outriggers on our aerial pieces. Willie was always asked prior to the Planning Board giving permission for the contractor to build if the plans were satisfactory to MCFD. Past Captain Chris Naum did yeoman service with his fire protection work on the GNM. "LOSAP" was established on my watch with the then laison to the town Morley Turner a Counselor.

 

March 27th, 1993

 

Auxiliary Spring Craft show. Sandy Morris was the chairperson.

 

 

 

March 28th, 1993
Candlelight Circle Fire

 

April 1993
Gettman Road burndown, pictures

 

April 1st, 1993

 

Saved by the bag

 

Herald Journal

 

Article Picture

 

An Onondaga County sheriff’s deputy and a truck driver escaped serious injury Thursday when their vehicles collided in a spectacular looking crash in the Town of Clay. Saintarno Estime, 34 of Newark, NJ was driving south on Henry Clay Boulevard about 9:30am when his tractor spun and slid sideways into Deputy Michael T. LeFebvre’s car. Upon impact, the air bag in the patrol car inflated, saving LeFebvre from serious injury.

 

Note: At the time of the accident, 

 

Mike LeFebvre was an active member of the MCFD, firefighter/medic, and dept Treasurer.

 

 

 

April 4th, 1993
Horseshoe Island Fire

 

Flooding hampers fire operations, fire engine gets stuck and has to be towed back to dry land. Firefighters were called to the same street the night before to rescue a woman and her child from the flooding.

 

Interview with Chief Chet Fritz: “You can prepare, but a fire truck is a fire truck. Until you can put pontoons on it, you sort of got to go with the flow.”

 

 

 

April 10th, 1993

 

Herald Journal

 

Vacant home in Clay is destroyed by fire

 

Dan Kane

 

An old vacant home along the Oneida River in the town of Clay burned to the ground Friday afternoon. Firefighters from Moyers Corners and Phoenix responded to the blaze on Bonstead Road, which was called in to 911 at 12:53 p.m. The cause of the fire was under investigation. "The house was fully involved, nobody was in there, it took us about 15 minutes to knock it down," said Moyers Corners Battalion Chief Ken Filow. Filow said the 2 story home was about 70 years old and had been vacant for about two years. There were no injuries.

 

 

 

May 1993

 

MCFD and Auxiliary Scholarship winners Michael G. Brown and Stephanie Cuny.

 

Picture

 

 

 

Pictures

 

 

 

May 17th, 1993

 

Auxiliary Installation Banquet at Green Gate Inn, Camillus. Lorraine Sahm was presented with a 40 year member pin, a gift and a cake.

 

President Cindy Houde, Vice President Lorraine Sahm, Recording Secretary Natalie Hunter, Corresponding Secretary Brenda Kennedy, Treasurer Sandy Morris.

 

Picture of Lorraine

 

 

 

June 1st, 1993

 

Route 57 MVC, pictures

 

 

 

June 27th, 1993
Marcellus Hazardous Materials Waste Fire Forces Evacuation
Syracuse Herald American
By Leslie Eimas
A hazardous material burst into flames Saturday afternoon, forcing 15 to 20 residents from their homes in the village of Marcellus.   Firefighters trained to work with hazardous materials contained the substance at 11 p.m. Saturday, more than 10 hours after the fire started in the driveway of 34 E. Main St.  About 10 people who were near the substance before it was identified as a hazard were showered off in Onondaga County's decontamination unit, said Ron Hernandez, county emergency medical services coordinator.  Those evacuated from a one-block area of the village were taken to the Marcellus Fire Station on Slate Hill Road.  Rescuers were called to East Main Street about 12:40 p.m. when Irene Burke noticed that a cardboard box containing a 5-gallon pail had caught fire in her driveway, said Jim Rossiter, Marcellus fire chief. 

"The moisture from the rain reacted with the chemical in the pail," Rossiter said. "It got so hot the box started burning."  The rain doused the fire , but an unusual pink smoke rose from the box, he said.  Burke put the box in the driveway because she was having work done on her garage. She said the pail had been there for years and she did not know what was in it.  Stephen Wisely, deputy fire coordinator for hazardous materials, said the substance was a caustic, and was probably an old cleaner.  By 3:30 p.m. the county's hazardous materials team - made up of firefighters from several departments - had put the substance in a barrel and left the scene. 

Then Allwash of Syracuse, an industrial cleaning service, was called to remove the barrel.  At about 6 p.m., the hazardous material team was called back because the substance started to foam and smoke when Allwash tried to neutralize it.  "When they started taking it out of the barrel, it became unstable again," Hernandez said. Firefighters donned protective gear before approaching the barrel. At 9:45 p.m., they asked about wind speeds. Dispatchers from the 911 center reported winds were southwesterly, at 3 to 4 mph.  At 11 p.m., Allwash workers had sealed the substance in a container that would go to a New York State Department of Transportation holding site, Wisely said.  Experts from the Department of Environmental Conservation will select a permanent resting site for the container next week, he said.  Firefighters from Clay, Elbridge, Howlett Hill, Moyers Corners , North Syracuse and Skaneateles responded to the call as members of the hazardous material team.

 

 

 

August 1993
1001 Graduates, pictures

 

 

 

September 19th, 1993

 

Benefit for MCFD Firefighter Andy Schiano held at Station 1. In the spring of 1993 one of our fire department members, Andy Schiano, suffered a serious injury on the job falling approximately 18 feet damaging both legs. After several operations and months in the hospital and rehabilitation, the auxiliary learned that the family was having financial trouble. The auxiliary held a benefit pancake breakfast to raise funds to help the family out. 169 adults, 33 senior citizens, 22 kids, 32 workers were served. Profit from the breakfast and donation from the fire department totaled $2,541.47.

 

 

 

September 22nd, 1993

 

Herald Journal

 

What, isn’t being fire chief enough??

 

Laurel Rogers

 

Four days a week John Marko wakes at 6 a m to get ready for his shift as a senior paramedic at Eastern Paramedics of Syracuse. His shift starts at 7am by checking the equipment and supplies in the ambulance he 11 spend most of the next 12 hours in If there isn't an emergency, he and his partner will drive to an assigned post in the city and wait for a call from a dispatcher When his shift ends at 7pm Marko usually doesn’t go straight home.  He stops to see what's happening at the Jamesville Volunteer Fire Department He's the chief He puts in 30 Lo 60 hours a week at the fire station he said Marko is one of the only volunteers in Onondaga County to be a fire chief and a paramedic "I've always got something to do," said Marko, 28, 4686 North St, Jamesville. "I’ll never be bored". Meeting credentials to be a paramedic and fire chief is no easy task. It is a "rare combination," said Tony DiGregono, assistant director of Emergency Medical Services and a battalion chief for the Baldwinsville Volunteer Fire Department ' John has tried very hard lo get what he achieved," DiGregorio said "That's an accomplishment." Does Marko view his achievements as rare "To be honest with you, I never thought of it until it was brought up," Marko said. "I just kind of worked my way up." He admits it took many hours to get lo where he is. "You're making a big commitment," Marko said "I'm serious about it and went and took extra training". His interest in emergency service started when he was 6 or 7 years old. "I just liked helping people," Marko said His brother, Theodore 44, was also a member of the fire department and worked for Eastern for about 19 years. In 1978, at 14 years old, John Marko became a junior firefighter for Jamesville He's been with the department ever since. In 1982, as a senior at Jamesville-DeWitt High School, Marko completed a course to be a certified emergency medical technician That was the first step to becoming a paramedic He started working as an EMT for high school In 1985, Marko was certified as a critical care technician In 1988, he obtained his paramedic certification, advancing to senior paramedic at Eastern "It's an exciting job," Marko said "If you can save one life that can make you feel good " At the fire department, Marko has been captain and 1st assistant chief.  He’s also taken non-required, fire-related courses in this area and at the state Fire Academy in Montour Falls. Marko also has worked for the Fayetteville and Moyers Corners fire department. Marko gets a lot from volunteering at the fire station "(I'm) donating my free time to the community, working with the volunteers in the department and I'm getting a lot of good administrative experience," Marko said "And putting all the hours of training that I have to use " Marko admits it's sometimes hard to juggle his time between home and work, he doesn't mind working close to 70 to 100 hours a week His wife, Jacqueline, 29, who works full time for Spectrum Office Products, has always been supportive, he said Marko wouldn't change a thing

 

"I'm sure I'll be in the fire and paramedic business for the rest of my career, ' Marko said. "I feel pretty good

 

about what I've done so far "

 

 

 

October 24th, 1993

 

Auxiliary Chicken BBQ at Station 1. Natalie Hunter and Lorraine Sahm chaired the event with a profit of $864.07.

 

Pictures

 

 

 

December 22nd, 1993

 

American Red Cross Blood Drive at Station 1.

 

1994
Chief Greg Tiner
 First Deputy Chief: Tim Chura
Second Deputy Chief Ron Turiello
Battalion 1 Chief Ken Filow
Battalion 2 Chief Steve Bressette
Battalion 3 Chief John Perkins
Station 1 Captain Greg Wild
Station 2 Captains Steve Fedorko, Bob Driscoll
Station 3 Captains Ed Wisnowski, Ed Stevens 
Station 4 Captain Steve McGraw
Station 1 Lieutenants: Rich Bittel, Ron Florzykowski, Jim Zampini

 

Station 2 Lieutenants: Mike Alder, Mike Zaferakis, Bob Michelson, Colin Bailey
Station 3 Lieutenants: Jim Wisnowski, Steve Dembowski, Jason Blake, Mike Wick
Station 4 Lieutenants: Shawn Crispin, Chris McGraw

 

Executive Board
 President Richard Perkins
Vice President Greg Mazza 
Secretary Dan Miller, Assistant Secretary Ed Armstrong 
Treasurer Geoff Maes, Assistant Treasurer Robert Dreitlein Sr. 

 

Fire Police:  Captain Bob Swahn 
 Lieutenants: Ken Brand Sr., Tom Delasin, Dick Kyle, Dave Ferguson

 

 

 

Ambulance Admins: Administrator Russ Ziskind, 1st Dale Cuny, 2nd Assistant Deb O’Connell,
 3rd Assistant Paul Wells

 

 

 

Auxiliary: President Cindy Houde, Vice President Lorraine Sahm, Recording Secretary Natalie Hunter Corresponding Secretary Brenda Kennedy, Treasurer Sandy Morris, Chaplain Jo Guinta

 

Scholarship Winner: Victoria Jarvis

 

New Apparatus: Ford F350 Squad 4, Engine 31 E-One

 

 

 

1994 thoughts from Chet Fritz: With much help from many, our department went from a class "5" ISO rated agency to an ISO class "3" department. During one meeting with the ISO representative, Stu Fish, he said; "shut off the recording machine".W hen the machine was shut down he stated to those assembled MCFD was the best volunteer department he ever rated. This can be verafied by Greg Shaffer who was in attendance. I believe the year was 1994.

 

 

 

April 5th, 1994

 

Teen-age Girl Dies In Crash

 

The Post-Standard

 

By Mike McAndrew

 

A 16-year-old Clay girl apparently committed suicide by driving a car full-speed Monday into a cement wall at the Shops at Seneca mall after arguing with her father about buying her a new car, Onondaga County sheriff's deputies said. Bishop Ludden High School junior Nancy R. Armstrong died in the 1:45 p.m. crash, which left a 5-foot wide hole in the warehouse section of the Raymour & Flanigan furniture store at the former Seneca Mall. 
Armstrong telephoned her mother at work minutes before the crash and told her she would never see her again, said Bob Burns, sheriff's department spokesman. But Armstrong's father said he does not think his daughter tried to kill herself. He thinks his daughter's tendency to drive fast when she was upset is what caused the crash, Jessie Armstrong said. "I don't think it was a suicide to be quite honest with you," he said. "I hope it's not." Witnesses told deputies that Armstrong twice raced her mother's white 1992 Saturn down an access road between Clay Commons Mall and Seneca Mall. On the first pass, she veered to the left as she approached the building. On the second trip, she drove an estimated 40 mph straight into the furniture store's cement wall, making no attempt to stop or turn, witnesses told deputies. 

"There were no skid marks from her vehicle, whatsoever," said Deputy Thomas Ristoff. No one was injured inside the Route 57 store. "She's the last kid in the world you would expect to be contemplating that kind of thing at all," said Bishop Ludden teacher Tom Pietropaolo. "She's one of those kids who just bops up and down the hallway. I'm thinking, jeez, I just can't believe it." Armstrong lived with her father and mother, Georgann Armstrong, at 4185 Ursa Course. "We're going to miss her. That's for sure," Jessie Armstrong said of his youngest child. "She was lovely. And always happy." Monday, Armstrong called in sick and did not attend Bishop Ludden, school officials said. Armstrong and her father had argued Monday afternoon because she wanted a new car, detectives told Burns. Jessie Armstrong said his daughter was upset because they had just dropped off her 1987 Mercury Lynx at a automobile dealer's to be repaired. After telephoning her mother at her office at Syracuse University's Archibold Gym, Nancy headed to a 2 p.m. appointment at a tanning salon at Clay Commons, her father said. "She was speeding because she drives fast to begin with. Anything that gets her upset, she'll drive out of the driveway 40, 50 miles per hour. She drove out of here fast," he said. She was wearing a seat belt when her car sped down the quarter-mile long access road and slammed into the building, Burns said. 

Moyers Corners firefighters cut the top off Armstrong's car to try to free her but they were unable to save her life. Detectives will have her car examined to determine if mechanical problem helped cause the accident, Burns said. Bishop Ludden Principal Dennis Meehan said he started calling teachers and guidance counselors Monday afternoon after learning of the death, so they could be prepared to help students cope with their grief. 
Armstrong attended Liverpool public schools until high school, Pietropaolo said. He said she had adjusted well to the Catholic high school. Until this year, Armstrong was a sweeper on Ludden's girls' junior varsity soccer team and competed as a sprinter on the school's track team. This year, Armstrong did not try out for the soccer team, opting to concentrate on her school work and two jobs, instead. Armstrong worked part time at Lox Stocks & Bagels in downtown Syracuse and at L&N Seafood at Carousel Mall. She planned to attend college when she graduated from Bishop Ludden, her father said. Raymour and Flanigans remained open after the crash but sent its stock room workers home early because they were upset, said Jim Dillard, vice president of the corporation.

 

 

 

April 25th, 1994

 

Herald Journal

 

Man badly hurt after accident in Clay

 

A Cicero man was in critical condition this morning after a diabetic reaction caused him to lose control of his car, which hit another car, plunged down an embankment and slammed into a deck. Steven Hill. 34, of 5927 Lakeshore Road, suffered massive head injuries and may lose an eye, which was severely punctured in the crash. After Hill's car careened off the road, it became wedged under the backyard deck of a house in the town of Clay. He was trapped in the car for almost an hour while Moyers Corners firefighters propped up the deck and nearby pool at the house at 7704 Fitzpatrick Drive, state Trooper Ron Morse said today. According to police reports, Hill was driving west on Buckley Road at about 8 p.m. when a man driving behind him used a cellular phone to report that Hill was driving erratically. The man, who called the 911 emergency line, said Hill had pulled his car off the road, stopped, then weaved back into traffic again. Moments later, Hill's car swerved into the oncoming lane and hit a car driven by Jason J. Austin, 79, of 122 Edden Lane, North Syracuse. Hill's car continued after the crash, careening through back yards on Fitzpatrick Drive, which runs parallel to Buckley Road. His tar hit a sign and a fence before slamming into Scott Ogata's deck, pushing the deck about eight feet. Morse said the impact of the crash smashed the windshield and peeled the roof off Hill's car. Firefighters had to use blocks to shore up the deck while they tried to remove Hill. Hill, Morse said, was conscious, but incoherent when he was taken away by ambulance. Trooper Michael Eberl, who was the first to arrive at the scene, found a card in Hill's wallet that said he had diabetes. No one else was injured in the accident, police said December 31st New Years Eve 1994

 

 

 

March 1994 Stillwood Lane Fire, bailouts

 

 

 

May 1994

 

Firemen’s Home Birthday Celebration, Home on the Hudson. Betty Hanlon, Doris Jackson and Marge Rybinski went to the Firemen’s Home to celebrate the May birthdays, which was sponsored by the MCFD Auxiliary. Everyone had a great time as can be seen in the pictures. The ladies also visited the FASNY Museum.

 

Pictures

 

 

 

May 16th, 1994

 

Auxiliary Installation Banquet at Pier 57 Restaurant.

 

President Cindy Houde, Vice President Lorraine Sahm, Recording Secretary Brenda Kennedy, Corresponding Secretary Sharon Catalino, Treasurer Sandy Morris, Chaplains Clara Marshall and Jo Guinta, Historian Jean Jones.

 

 

 

May 25th, 1994

 

Herald Journal
A friend in need

 

Residents in the Moyers Corners area have scheduled several benefits to raise money for Steve Bressette, battalion chief in the Moyers Corners Fire Department Bressette is recovering from an April 24 liver transplant in Dallas and must remain there for three more months To help offset his expenses, the Moyers Corners auxiliary is hosting a chicken barbecue from noon to 4 p m on June 5 at Moyers Corners Station 1. at routes 31 and 57. The department's Explorer Post will sponsor a car wash at the same time June 12 has been designated Steve Bressette Day at the fire station. There will be a pancake breakfast in the morning followed by a push ball competition and dancing. County Executive Nicholas J. Pirro will present a certificate stating the County Legislature and Pirro will declare the day “Steve Bressette Day”.

 

 

 

June 1994
Hazmat 3 to Marcellus, pictures

 

 

 

June 1994

 

MCFD and Auxiliary Scholarship Winner Victoria Jarvis

 

Picture

 

 

 

June 5th, 1994

 

Auxiliary Chicken BBQ at Station 1. Martha Arnold and Linda Gobin chaired with a profit of $1006.64 after selling 173 dinners and 58 halves. Money goes towards Steve Bressette’s medical expenses as agreed by the auxiliary.

 

Pictures

 

 

 

June 12th, 1994

 

Benefit for Battalion Chief Steve Bressette sponsored by the MCFD and the Auxiliary at Station 1. Pancake breakfast and raffles yielded $1705 plus other donations of $210 and $530 from the fire department. A total of $5500 was raised for Steve. Other activites included men’s pushball. Nicholas Pirro proclaimed that June 12th, 1994 was Steve Bressette day, presenting a letter to Fred and Joyce Bressette.

 

Pictures.

 

 

 

June 27th, 1994

 

Auxiliary Annual Picnic at Station 1. Martha Arnold presented pins to Nancy Delasin, Sharon Catalino, Brenda Kennedy, Chris Loup, Sandy Morris and Mildred Morris. A check was presented to Joyce Bressette from the June Chicken BBQ and Benefit to help defray expenses for her son Steve’s surgery.

 

 

 

August 20th, 1994

 

Chicken BBQ at Sam’s Club Route 31. Sponsored by the MCFD, sports club and Auxiliary with a $1021.36 profit.

 

Pictures

 

 

 

December 12th, 1994

 

Christmas Banquet held at Santangelo’s on Old Liverpool Road. A letter was presented from John Kennedy requesting the auxiliary to purchase a laryngoscope in the amount of $1200 for the rescue in order to be a better responding unit when first on the scene of an accident.

 

 

 

December 12th, 1994: 
Auxiliary purchased a Louringascope for Squad 4 for $1200. Auxiliary also donated $300 for x-mas baskets for the needy.

 

 

 

December 22, 1994

 

Herald Journal – HJ

 

An alarming malfunction

 

Liverpool High Schooladministrators almost had to cancel school one day last week because of a malfunction in the school's alarm system. The school had to be evacuated on Monday, Dec. 12 when a wastebasket fire was discovered in a girls' bathroom about 1-45 p.m. When the Moyers Corners Fire Department arrived a few minutes later, the fire had already been extinguished by a teacher. Coatless students waited outside in the 40-degree Liverpool weather nearly 10 minutes. During the evacuation, the fire alarm system was not functioning properly. The bells would ring once or twice, stop for a few seconds, ring a few more times and then stop again, according to Managing Principal Terry Piper. At one point at the beginning of the evacuation, the bells on the third floor did not even ring. The company that services the alarm was in the building for most of the evening repairing the system. "The system is the same one they had in place" when Liverpool opened, Piper says. The fire alarm system would have been replaced under a building renovation proposal, which was defeated by 
more than 2,000 votes the day after the incident.   Jared Paventi, senior, Liverpool High School

 

1995
Chief Greg Tiner
 First Deputy Chief: Tim Chura
Second Deputy Chief Ron Turiello
Battalion 1 Chief Ken Filow
Battalion 2 Chief Steve Bressette
Battalion 3 Chief John Perkins
Station 1 Captain Greg Wild
Station 2 Captains Mike Alder, Bob Driscoll 
Station 3 Captains Ed Wisnowski, Ed Stevens 
Station 4 Captain Steve McGraw
Station 1 Lieutenants: Rich Bittel, Mike Zaferakis, Jim Zampini

 

Station 2 Lieutenants: Dan Smith, Steve Race, Bob Michelson, Peter Caluwe
Station 3 Lieutenants: Jim Wisnowski, Sean Schermerhorn, Ron Jennings, Mike Wick
Station 4 Lieutenants: Jason Blake, Colin Bailey

 

Executive Board
 President Greg Mazza
Vice President Gene Young 
Secretary Gary Johnson, Assistant Secretary Eric Houde 
Treasurer Dennis Lyons, Assistant Treasurer Mike Moe 

 

Fire Police:  Captain Bob Swahn 
 Lieutenants: Ken Brand Sr., Tom Delasin, Dick Kyle, Dave Ferguson

 

 

 

Ambulance Admins: Administrator Dale Cuny, 1st Assistant Deb. O’Connell, 2nd Assistant Lisa Carey,
 3rd Assistant Deb Freeman

 

 

 

Auxiliary: President Cindy Houde, Vice President Lorraine Sahm, Recording Secretary Brenda Kennedy Corresponding Secretary Sharon Catalino, Treasurer Sandy Morris, Chaplain Jo Guinta and Clara Marshall

 

 

 

Scholarship Winners Katrina Goettel and Stephanie Johnson

 

 

 

New Apparatus: Engine 11, formery 1976 Hahn – rehabilitation using Glider Kit

 

 

 

January 3rd, 1995
Herald Journal
article picture

 

About 45 firefighters from Moyers Corners spent part of the chilly New Year's holiday evening battling a blaze that destroyed a vacant home on   Route 57 near Route 31 in Clay. The fire was reported at about 7:30 p.m. Monday, and it took firefighters an hour to knock it down. With winds blowing near 20 mph, the wind chill was near zero. Moyers Corners Chief Greg Tiner said the fire is considered suspicious and remains under investigation. No one was injured.

 

 

 

January 26th, 1995

 

Perserverance Finally Pays Off For Moyers Corners Firefighter

 

The Post-Standard

 

By Jim Emmons

 

GARY JOHNSON, a firefighter for Moyers Corners Fire Department , had volunteered there for 10 or so years when he got a shot at a paid firefighting job at Niagara Mohawk Power Corp.'s Nine Mile Point nuclear power plant. He fought for the job like a pit bull, and after a long wait, landed it. Then he had to consider what he was actually getting into. "When I went up there, I was a little on the nervous side," he recalled. "I had never worked with radiation, and I didn't know what to expect." Six weeks of special training allayed most of his fears. "It's just like fire," he said. "You gotta know it's there, you gotta study it, and know how to handle it." In eight years at Nine Mile, Johnson has seen only a single fire - a water pump that caught fire - and by the time firefighters arrived, the plant's extinguishing system already had contained the fire. The job involves fire prevention far more than it does fire response. Johnson lives with his girlfriend, Donna Sionni, and Sionni's daughter, 9-year-old Michelle, at 104 Josephine St., North Syracuse. The accomplishment I'm proudest of: I always wanted to work for a big company like Niagara Mohawk. ... And being able to work full-time as a firefighter. 
I've been most influenced by: my mom and my sister - they're real close to me, and very supportive. If it wasn't for them, I wouldn't have gone as far as I have. In my spare time: I do a lot of boating, go up to Alexandria Bay and go around the Lake of Isles. And I'm a movie buff. I love movies. If I could travel anywhere: I'd like to do the cruises, maybe to the Bahamas. And I'd like to take the kids to Disney World

 

 

 

March 5th, 1995

 

Fishing auction at Station 1. Profit of $278.08.

 

 

 

April 14th 1995 
Aurora Path Fire, pictures
Moyers Corners and Liverpool FD responded to a house fire on Aurora Path in the Battalion 2 response area. Crews were met with heavy fire coming from the garage, with extension into the house. Engine 21 was first due

 

 

 

Cedar Post Road, Building M Fire – Pictures

 

 

 

May 26th, 1995

 

Asphalt Spill, Fire Prompt DEC Probe

 

The Post-Standard

 

By Jim Emmons

 

State environmental officials are investigating a Bronx-based petroleum company for possible criminal and environmental violations following an asphalt spill and fire at the Three Rivers area in the town of Clay. Richard Brazell, regional spill specialist for the state Department of Environmental Conservation, said the spill occurred as demolition workers were dismantling a series of large oil tanks off Maider Road by the Oneida River. 
Cibro Petroleum Products Inc., the depot's owner, is shutting the site down. It was the last stage of that work - the removal of distribution pipes - that caused the problem, Brazell said. Many of the pipes still contained liquid asphalt. As workers cut the pipes, the asphalt spilled, Brazell said. Environmental officials inspected the site Monday afternoon, and ordered the contractor - Davis Surplus of Morrisville, Vt. - to clean the spill and handle the pipes more carefully. Instead, the problem only worsened, Brazell said. Tuesday morning, he returned to the site to investigate a fire. He said workers were cutting more pipe with cutting torches when a nearby tank - an open collecting tank for the liquid asphalt - caught fire. The Moyers Corners Fire Department was able to put out the fire quickly, he said, but it was clear that workers still were spilling asphalt as they cut the pipes. "These pipes were full of product," Brazell said. "And it wasn't like they cut it and stopped. They cut it, it leaked, and they kept cutting. We've got asphalt all over the ground, wherever these guys were cutting. You would think, once you cut it, you would realize there was product in the line, and you would stop and clean out the line. This company just kept going." In addition, he said, the Davis crew stripped asbestos insulation from the pipes, and let it lie all over the place, posing a health hazard. Brazell said environmental officials were continuing to investigate both Cibro and its contractor, Davis Surplus. Reached in Vermont, Davis Surplus owner Robert Davis said he was unaware the insulation was asbestos. The people from Cibro told him it wasn't, he said. He also said the pipes were clean, and the spills weren't his. But he couldn't vouch for the most recent work, because medical problems forced him to return to Vermont a couple of weeks ago. Cibro officials could not be reached for comment Thursday. After Tuesday's inspection, Brazell ordered Cibro to hire a cleanup company or the state would step in. Cibro agreed, and Brazell said he's pleased with the work of the cleanup company - Clean Harbors Inc. "The river wasn't bad," he said. "Most of the asphalt was caught before it got into the river. We were fortunate. If there's something good about this whole spill, it's that it tends to be pretty easy to clean up asphalt - easier than gasoline or diesel fuel. It's like tar. It's a mess, but you can pick it up."

 

 

 

June 1995

 

MCFD and Auxiliary Scholarship winners Katrina Goettel and Stephanie Johnson

 

Pictures

 

 

 

June 17th, 1995

 

Hearld Journal

 

Santa lawsuit settles for $405,000

 

Moyers Corners fire hall crash left 5-year-old boy injured.

 

Jim O’Hara

 

A suburban youth injured when a fire truck carrying Santa Claus crashed through the Moyers Corners fire station wall during a 1990 Christmas party will be paid more than $400,000 to settle a lawsuit. In the settlement, Aaron Williams of Baldwinsville will receive 810,000 on each of his 18th, 19th, 20th and 21st birthdays. He'll also get an additional lump-sum payment of $365,266 when he turns 25. Williams, now 10, suffered leg injuries when the fire truck crashed through the cinder block wall of Moyers Corners Station at the intersection of Routes 31 and 57 on Dec 15, 1990. About 50 people were in the fire station meeting room for the Christmas party when the accident occurred Eleven, including Williams, then 5-years-oid, were injured. Authorities later blamed a rusty part connecting the truck's gas pedal to the fuel injector for causing the driver, Richard Chicallo, not to be able to stop the vehicle. The 21-ton truck first struck two parked cars and then slammed into the building, tearing a 30-foot hole in the rear wall as it crashed the party. According to the state Supreme Court settlement, Williams has some scarring from his injuries but has recovered. The lawsuit was filed against the Moyers Corners Fire Department, Chicallo, Har-Rob Fire Apparatus Services and Sales and the owners of the two parked cars struck during the incident.

 

 

 

July 11th, 1995

 

Volunteer Ambulance Corps Start Charging

 

The Post-Standard

 

By Jim Emmons

 

The Moyers Corners ambulance service later this month plans to join the growing ranks of volunteer ambulance corps that charge patients for rides to the hospital. The move is the result of shortfalls in fund-raising and difficulty in attracting enough volunteers. Moyers Corners, which serves a large part of northern Onondaga County, plans to charge $300 a ride. For many patients, however, health insurance will pay much of that cost. Twenty-eight volunteer ambulance corps provide service across suburban Onondaga County. While most still provide the service for free, charging patients is a growing movement to cover costs. At least five volunteer services in the county now charge for transporting patients to hospitals: the North Area Volunteer Ambulance Corps in North Syracuse, the Greater Baldwinsville Ambulance Corps and the Brewerton, Jordan, and LaFayette ambulance services. 

Eastern Paramedics, the major commercial ambulance service in Syracuse, does this as a matter of course because it has payrolls to meet. But the move toward billing by volunteer ambulance corps is a recent development. In the case of Moyers Corners, the move stems from a shortfall in fund-raising and, a more common problem, difficulty recruiting volunteers. Emergency services countywide have experienced similar difficulties, largely because of the increasing job demands. In the last two decades, ambulance work has evolved from a hasty shuttle service to an on-site medical treatment. Crews do a lot of medical work in the field, and training requirements can be overwhelming. The Moyers Corners Fire Department Medical Rescue Squad was founded in the 1970s. At peak membership, in the mid-1980s, 85 volunteers were active. Today, that's down to 45. In 1993, to compensate for the drop in volunteers, the service hired seven part-time medics. 

The medics covered days when volunteers weren't available; and as volunteers became more scarce, the medics' hours grew. Today, the medics' annual payroll comes to $40,000, up from $20,000 in 1993. The ambulance service operates out of the two Moyers Corners Fire Department stations. But, unlike the fire department, it gets no tax revenues. The ambulance service always has supported itself through fund-raising. 
Lately, however, fund-raising hasn't been as lucrative as in past years, said Arnie Ross, treasurer for the service. In 1994, for instance, the service hoped to raise $108,000, but fell $11,000 short. This setback, combined with earlier shortfalls and debt on equipment purchases, leaves the service with an overall debt of $65,000. It was clear the service would have to start billing, Ross said. The ambulance service has contracted with MultiMed, a Baldwinsville billing service, to submit charges directly to the patient's insurance company. Most insurance providers, including Medicare and Medicaid, cover at least 80 percent of any ambulance charge, and some cover the full fee, said Debbie O'Connell, director of the ambulance service. 

People without insurance will receive a bill. If they can't pay, the ambulance service won't demand payment, Ross said. Other volunteer services that bill are mostly like Moyers Corners - services fiscally independent of fire departments and without tax revenues. But the billing option also has appealed to such small ambulance corps as Jordan's, which continues to get a share of tax support. Doug Milton, chief of the Jordan Fire Department, says the reason is simple: Billing keeps taxes down and it adds an element of fairness. Jordan's ambulance corps responds to calls outside the town - and to plenty of car accident victims who don't pay taxes in Jordan. Billing spreads costs more fairly. Moyers Corners responds to 1,900 to 2,000 ambulance calls a year, but only about 65 percent result in rides to the hospital. Even so, at $300 a ride - which is a typical fee for a volunteer ambulance corps that bills patients - the new billing policy will net the service about $370,000 a year. That's almost three times its current annual budget of $133,000. On top of that, O'Connell said, the service will continue fund-raising. The corps needs this money, O'Connell said, because the move to billing also will represent an improvement in service. 

Currently, the service sometimes refers calls to other agencies because it doesn't have enough people to go around. It would like to offer full, 24-hour service by beefing up the coverage with paid medics. It also plans to buy new heart monitors, move into its own facility separate from the firehouses and buy a third ambulance. 
"If we had our way, we wouldn't charge," O'Connell said. "You don't want to charge people for anything, but when you look at it like you're trying to provide a service to the community, and the cost of the service keeps going up, sooner or later you have to do something to pay for those increases."

 

 

 

 

 

July 19th, 1995 
The Messenger 
Moyers Corners Restructures Ambulance Service

 

The Moyers Corners Ambulance Corps will soon have a new look. These changes will allow local volunteers to continue to serve the community with professional emergency medical care. The 1970s saw the need develop for a local community based ambulance service in the Moyers Corners area. This need was satisfied with the assistance of the Moyers Corners Fire Department. The Moyers Corners Fire Department Medical Rescue Squad was established as an additional organization within the fire department for the purpose of providing a high quality ambulance service for local residents. Over the years, the Moyers Corners area has experienced tremendous population and commercial growth. This growth has resulted in a fire department which now provides a number of services such as fire protection, rescue, extrication, emergency medical care, and ambulance service.  To better serve the community and to meet the increasing requests for emergency medical care and ambulance services, the fire department and the medical rescue squad determined it would be helpful to become more specialized. To achieve this, a solution was identified to establish a fully, independent and certified ambulance corps. Starting in July, the local volunteer community ambulance service will become the Moyers Corners Ambulance, Inc. 

 

 

 

The response and care will be the same and this new non-profit organization will continue to work very closely with the Moyers Corners Fire Department. Even though the Moyers Corners Medical Rescue squad operated under the direction of the fire department, it did not receive any portion of the tax dollars allocated for the Moyers Corners Fire Department. Funding for the Moyers Corners Ambulance has always been provided by donations and independent fund raising efforts. While- growth has resulted in an increase in the number of requests for ambulance service, income from fund raising efforts has remained level for several years. Only a small percentage of households and businesses in the area donate to the ambulance service. In an effort to provide adequate costs and provide for the purchase of new equipment, the Moyers Corners Ambulance will start billing for its services.  The Moyers Corners Ambulance will continue to provide service to all patients regardless of their ability to pay. The institution of billing will in no way change the fact that the first priority of the Moyers Corner's Ambulance is to respond when needed. As a non-profit organization, its purpose is to provide emergency medical care and treatment to residents in the Moyers Corners area. The Moyers Corners Ambulance has contracted with MultiMed Billing Service, Inc. of Baldwinsville, to operate the billing program. MultiMed is a full service billing company experienced in answering patient questions, submitting insurance claims and providing assistance with the billing process. MultiMed will submit all bills to the appropriate insurance company on behalf of the patient and will assist with any insurance issues. The charge for transportation to the hospital b y the Moyers Corners Ambulance will be $300.MultiMed will submit this charge to the patient’s insurance company directly. Ambulance bills are generally covered by insurance, including medicare and Medicaid. It is expected there should be no additional expense for most users of the ambulance. Income obtained by billing will provide an additional means of funding the budget and equipment needs not covered by donations and fund drives.

 

 

 

Presently, a fund drive is in progress to assist with the replacement of ambulance heart monitors. These devices monitor heart activity, and can also deliver a live saving electrical shock, or defibrillation, when a heart has stopped beating.  In 1994 the Moyers Corners ambulances responded to 1,798 dispatches by Onondaga County Fire Control. Typically the highest number of calls occur during the summer months. The first five months of 1995 have already seen dispatches at the 1994 rate of 150 per month, with some of the busiest weeks yet to come. The Moyers Corners Ambulance will maintain service to residents in the Moyers Corners fire district and surrounding areas. The organization will continue to operate two ambulances and a first response vehicle. All three of these vehicles are equipped with the supplies required for Advanced Life Support medical treatment. Life saving care can be provided at the scene of an emergency and continued during transport to the hospital. Openings for new members interested in joining are still available. Residents interested in volunteering their time to serve the community they live in can stop by one of the fire stations or write for an application.

 

 

 

May 1995

 

Stillwood Lane

 

 

 

October 13th, 1995

 

Herald Journal

 

Mysterious odor causes headaches in Liverpool

 

An unusual odor from a possible chemical leak made residents and workers near the American Steel and Aluminum Corp. in Liverpool feel sick Thursday night. The county's hazardous materials team and members of the Moyers Corners and Liverpool fire departments responded to several calls just before 7 p.m. People had complained of fumes near a wooded area east of the company's building on Crown Road. Crane operators at American Steel said they started smelling a strong odor such as lacquer or solvent just after 6 p.m. Foreman Keith Robbins said he called 911 after workers started having watery eyes, feeling nauseous and suffering from headaches. Several people were treated at and released from area hospitals. Special meters used by the fire departments and hazardous material team did not register any toxins in the air,
 said Moyers Corners Fire Chief Greg Tiner

 

1996
Chief Greg Tiner
 First Deputy Chief: Tim Chura
Second Deputy Chief Ron Turiello
Battalion 1 Chief Ken Filow
Battalion 2 Chief Steve Bressette
Battalion 3 Chief John Perkins
Station 1 Captain Jim Zampini
Station 2 Captains Bob Driscoll, Bob Michelson 
Station 3 Captains Jeff Wisely, Ron Jennings 
Station 4 Captain Greg Wild
Station 1 Lieutenants: Mike Zaferakis, Dave Hubeny, Sean Powers

 

Station 2 Lieutenants: Steve Race, Tom Staves, Dan Smith
Station 3 Lieutenants: Steve Dembowski, Sean Schermerhorn, Dennis Lyons
Station 4 Lieutenants: Steve McGraw, Jason Blake

 

Executive Board
 President Greg Mazza
Vice President Gary Johnson 
Secretary Don Barker, Assistant Secretary Steve Wisely 
Treasurer Dick Kyle 

 

Fire Police:  Captain Bob Swahn 
 Lieutenants: Ken Brand Sr., Tom Delasin, Dick Kyle, Dave Ferguson

 

Auxiliary: President Cinidy Houde, Vice President Lorraine Sahm, Recording Secretary Brenda Kennedy Corresponding Secretary Sharon Catalino, Treasurer Sandy Morris, Chaplain Jo Guinta and Clara Marshall

 

 

March 12th, 1996
Cambridge Court Fire
News interview with Chief Greg Tiner: 
“Roughly around 2:02am we received a call from 911 dispatch for a reported fire. Upon arrival we had a fully involved trailer fire. All of the occupants were out. The thing was well involved. We did suffer some problems here initially with some water, but it was able to recoup very quickly. It was a good knockdown. It looks like right now it was the cold and frozen hydrants. The group did a good job, they pulled an attack line very quickly, got inside and kept the fire right where it was at. Right now it is under investigion, it appears it started in the front of the trailer. We’ve been told so far that there was a computer on at the time, but we haven’t confirmed that at this point. There was a total of three people in the trailer at the time. It’s pretty straight forward, no one was hurt, we didn’t suffer any injuries, overall it was a fairly good operation.”

 

 

 

May 1996

 

May birthday pictures from the Firemen’s Home on the Hudson. The MCFD Auxiliary sponsors this month by sending money for the birthday fund.

 

Picture

 

 

 

June 14th, 1996

 

Fake crash shows drunk driving horror

 

The Post-Standard

 

By Frederick Pierce

 

Like many teens who become involved  in drunk driving accidents, Mary Troicke of Liverpool never expected to die. But there she was last Friday, laying motionless in the dented remains of a Toyota Celica while an official from the Onondaga County Medical Examiner’s office surveyed the scene. Soon, she was lying on a stretcher with a plastic body bag wrapped around her like a shroud. “It was weird,” said Troicke, a Liverpool High School senior, shivering in a T-shirt spatter with fake blood as she recalled her surprise performance as a corpse. “(The rescuers) told me I was supposed to be dead. Then they carried me out and zipped that thing up around me.” Troicke was on of four performing arts students who volunteered to help state police, the Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department and the medical examiner’s office state a mock DWI accident. “The revived me in the ambulance,” joked Emili Abriola, 18, the intended fatality. “But that’s OK, it was warmer in there.” About 600 students braved the chilly morning air to gather around two junk cars arranged as though they had just collided and a handful of rescue vehicles that pretended to respond to the crash. The event, part of the school’s yearlong “Senior Daze” effort, was intended to bring home the deadly consequences of drunken driving to teens who all too often think they’re invulnerable, said Trooper Kevin Hargrave-Nykaza. “Reading about it in the paper really doesn’t do it for most kids,” Hargrave said. “Seeing rescuers  rip the roof off a car or seeing the medical examiner  put a body in a body bag, those are the kinds of things that stick in your mind.” About a dozen firefighters used gasoline-powered tools to rip open the cars, donated by Jim’s Service Center of Morgan Road in Liverpool. They carefull stabilized the victims, who were bruised with blue eye makeup and ripping with painted-on cuts and gashes. “I don’t ever want to be in handcuffs again.” said Crognale, 17. “People kept shouting things at me saying ‘Yeah, yeah, you got busted.”…A lot of kids, they got out of second-perior class for this, and that’s why they were here. But I thing some people took it seriously.” Although there was no shortage of smart remarks, most eyes in the crowed rmained glued to the resuce scene. The demonstration ended with a loud applause. Kwambi Ford, 18, jokingly approached a reporter and began spinning a wild tale of the accident, saying he was a witness and saw it all happen; much to the delight of his giggling audience. But when asked what he thought about the event, the Liverpool High School senior turned serious. “I think it’s a really good idea to show people what can happen,” said Ford, noting that he had been involved in a car accident several years agao. He said the crash cracked his ribs and left his mother disabled. “If it works for just one person, it’s done its job,” Ford said of the demonstration. “People need to realize, even thought the blood is fake, it could be real.”

 

Color picture from SPZ collection

 

 

 

July 8th, 1996

 

Herald Journal

 

Mother and son escape Clay house fire Saturday

 

A dropped propane torch set off a fire that damaged a home Saturday in Clay, fire investigators said.A teen-ager who was using the torch dropped it, and the torch ignited a couch in the basement at 108 Wood Path Road, said Second Deputy Chief Ronald Turiello of the Moyers Corners fire department. The blaze was confined to the basement, but there was extensive smoke and water damage, authorities said. The teen-ager and his mother, Patricia Spencer, escaped unharmed.

 

 

 

August 23rd, 1996

 

Clay man injured after fire spreads from garage to home

 

Herald Journal

 

Scott Scanlon

 

A Clay man was hospitalized and his family of five was left homeless Thursday night when fire heavily damaged their house off Wetzel Road. Anthony Pascarella was working on his car inside his garage at 7455 Tirrell Hill Circle when the fire broke out at 8:53pm, Moyers Corners Fire Chief John Perkins said. The two-car garage is attached to the hosue. Perkins said county investigators were still seeking a cause for the blaze late Thursday. “The flames were just shooting out from the top of the roof,” said Debbie Falosi, who lives across the street from the Pascarellas and was returning home from shopping as the fire intensified. “It was amazing the damage it did in a matter of second.” Pascarella and his pregnant wife, Sarah, were able to get their children out of the house unharmed, Perkins said. Pascarella was taken to St. Joseph’s Hospital with what Perkins called minor burns. He was being treated in the emergency room late Thursday and doctors had not determined whether he should be admitted, a nursing supervisor said. Perkins said Pascarella’s wife and a brother, whose name was unavailable, received medical attention at the scene. More than 50 volunteers with Moyers Corners, Clay, North Syracuse, Belgium and Mattydale fire departments responded.

 

 

 

October 27th, 1996
Chicken BBQ at Station 1 with a profit of $980.00.

 

November 14th, 1996
Firefighter dies in one-car crash
Post Standard

 

Peter Ortiz

 

Michael F. Alder couldn’t wait to get to the Volney Fire Barn Wednesday night. He was to be inducted as the town’s newest volunteer firefighter after serving as a volunteer for 10 years at Moyers Corners Fire Department in Onondaga County. “That was his hobby,” said Alder’s wife, Karen. “He never missed a call.” Alder, 37, of 728 Silk Road left the firefighters’ meeting at 11pm but never made it home. Volunteer members who had congratulated him that night were called Thursday morning to help pull his car out of an irrigation ditch in a muck field about two miles from the fire station. Alder was found inside the car and his death has been ruled an accidental drowning, state police at Fulton said. “This is kind of rough for us,” said Gerry Tarbell, assistant fire chief for Volney. Police said Alder was traveling north on county Route 6 when his car crossed into the southbound lane and overturned into the icy ditch. Most of the car was submerged and only the wheels on the driver’s side were visible, police said. Some children in a passing school bus noticed the car and told their driver a little after 9am. Wet roads may have contributed to the accident, police said. Tarbell said he had a bad feeling when his team was sent out because he heard that Alder had been missing. He was home when Alder’s wife called him at 7am Thursday. She had called police about 1:30am Thursday. “She had been driving the roads looking for him,” he said. Karen Alder said she knew something was wrong when she did not hear from her husband. He was due to report to work at 6:30am Thursday at the Coastal Corp co-generation plant in Fulton, where he worked for five years, she said.

 

 

 

Those that knew Alder from the Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department in Clay said the Volney fire department has lost an experienced firefighter who loved his job and was devoted to his family. Ronald Turiello, second deputy chief, had known him since Alder joined in February 1985. “Whenever there was a call and he wasn’t working, he would respond,” Turiello saod. “He…took his responsibility seriously.” Alder rose to the rank of captain before leaving Liverpool with his wife and four children in 1995. Kenneth Filow, chief of the first battalion, said Alder often brough his children to the fire station. “You could always count on Mike for just about anything you needed, and I know he was very family-oriented,” Filow said.

 

 

 

November 14th, 1996

 

Rummage Sale at Station 1. Lorraine Sahm chaired the event with a profit of $225.10.

 

 

 

November 15th, 1996

 

Herald Journal

 

Building a better fire drill in Clay

 

Local Firefighters want a $632,000 fire training facility

 

Lillian Abbott Pfohl

 

To successfully fight a fire, a firefighter needs to learn a crucial lesson: how to think clearly the moment after the door to a burning building is kicked in, with a wave of heat and smoke smacking the firefighter in the face.

 

In the years before building codes and smoke detectors, firefighters got that training at real fires. But as the number of large fires dwindles, area departments find themselves scrambling for ways to train their volunteers. That's why the Clay Volunteer Fire Department wants to build a sophisticated $632,000 fire training facility. Some departments train using a fire tower — usually a multistory brick building in which a department sets fires, using wood pallets or other flammable material. The facility Clay wants to build is made of steel — similar to the steel used in boilers — with a system of propane pipes that allows for a fire to be started and manipulated depending on the type of training desired. Clay Fire Chief Joe Rineford trained at a similar facility m Oswego that was run by Niagara Mohawk Power Corp. NiMo used to allow fire departments tram there for free, but the company now charges for each session. "This technology is cutting edge," Rineford said. "Every firefighter who goes to that facility wants to go back, because it's so close to reality that it's unbelievable." Once NiMo started charging, it became harder to justify sending small groups of firefighters to Oswego to train, he said. ' If this is right in back of the fire station, then I can run 40 evolutions of a fire through and tram the whole department at once," Rineford said. "I don't lose any tune to travel." Because the town of Clay provides all of the fire department's money, town taxpayers would pick up the tab for the project. The traditional brick tower can cost as little as $80.000. With interest, the mortgage payment for the propane facility would cost about 564,000 a year.

 

 

 

But Rineford and other Clay fire chiefs argue the propane tower is much safer than any ether fire training facility. The fire is controllable, there is no contaminated runoff to harm the environment and it mimics reality so well that firefighters are better trained for the real thing. If it's built in Clay, the town is probably looking to have the three Clay volunteer fire departments — Clay, Moyers Corners and North Syracuse — use the facility 50 percent of the time and rent it the remaining 50 percent Although it's probably not possible for the town to make money from such a facility, it is possible to offset some of the costs of building it, Rineford said. Rineford said he believes other departments will want to use the fire training facility because "everyone is looking for a place and a way to tram their people." The nearest brick tower for Clay's firefighters was in Cicero, but that was closed to outside departments last year. That means firefighters train by drilling and by occasionally burning vacant buildings. "When you run a live fire, the fire sometimes gets a little out of hand," said Greg Tiner, chief of the Moyers Corners department Because of environmental regulations, firefighters must gut a house and remove wood shingles before burning it, he added. Surrounding neighbors get annoyed because traffic gets blocked around the house. But with the propane-based facility, you get control, Rineford said. "In this setting, I can control fire," Rinefierd said. "I can control the intensity, I can control the smoke, I can make it worse, or I can make it better. This is as close to a real thing as we can get. If something goes wrong, I can turn the whole thing off by twisting a knob. "You don't get that when you set up a pile of pallets in a brick building and set them on fire. If I light a fire in a brick building, I lose control."

 

 

 

Because of that Moyers Corners no longer trains by burning vacant buildings, Tiner said. Losing control can lead to mistakes that can hurt someone, he said.   "We've been lucky. No one's ever gotten killed practicing by burning down a house," he said. "But this kind of state-of-the-art facility will eliminate that risk. You're going to have safer and better-trained firefighters. You'll reduce your insxirance costs, because you have fewer workman's compensation costs."' Because of concerns over safety and environmental issues, propane training facilities might be the only way to train firefighters using live fire. Tiner said. "The other option you run into is firefighters learning about fire via slides and chalkboards," he said. "How will that serve us

 

with a fire at 3 in the morning with people trapped inside?"

 

 

 

November 17th, 1996

 

Pancake breakfast at Station 1 chaired by Sharon Catalino and Brenda Kennedy with a profit of $56.42.

 

 

 

December 9th, 1996

 

Auxiliary Christmas Banquet held at Tassone’s in Baldwinsville. Hattie Karker was presented with a floral arrangement for her 90th birthday.

 

 

 

1997
Chief Greg Tiner
 First Deputy Chief: Ron Turiello
Second Deputy Chief Steve Wisely
Battalion 1 Chief Ken Filow
Battalion 2 Chief Steve Bressette
Battalion 3 Chief Jeff Wisely
Station 1 Captain Mike Zaferakis
Station 2 Captains Bob Driscoll, Bob Michelson 
Station 3 Captains Ron Jennings, Ed Wisnowski
Station 4 Captain Greg Wild
Station 1 Lieutenants: Sean Powers, Ron Florczykowski

 

Station 2 Lieutenants: Steve Race, Dan Siek
Station 3 Lieutenants: Steve Dembowski, Sean Schermerhorn, Mike Wick, Paul Rand 
Station 4 Lieutenants: Dave Hubeny, Frank Crispin

 

Executive Board
 President Gary Johnson
Vice President Don Barker 
Secretary Dan Smith, Assistant Secretary Lisa Dembowski 
Treasurer Bill Siemers, Assistant Treasuer Deb Freeman

 

Fire Police:  Captain Bob Swahn 
 Lieutenants: Ken Brand Sr., Tom Delasin, Dick Kyle, Dave Ferguson

 

Bunk Ins: Brian Gray, Greg Smith

 

 

 

Auxiliary: President Linda Gobin, Vice President Sharon Catalino, Recording Secretary Brenda Kennedy Corresponding Secretary Jean Jones, Treasurer Joyce Bressette, Chaplain Jo Guinta

 

Scholarship Winners: Mike Alexander and Stephanie Morris

 

Explorer Post: Dan Alexander, Mike Alexander, Justin Brady, Doug Brissette, Brian Cole, Laura Germano, Ed Glassford, Mike Normanly, Maureen O’Neill, Nick Stevens, Mike Wright, Jered Zeppetello

 

 

 

New Apparatus: E97 Engine 21 Pierce Quantum, First Due Engine until 2006
New Apparatus: 1996 Pierce Quantum – Engine 21, later became E32. Sold in 2013

 

 

 

January 5th, 1997

 

Herald Journal
Scott Scanlon

 

Moyers Corners honors firefighter who was killed

 

Moyers Corners firefighters will remember one of their own.  Saturday night when they pay tribute to Michael F. Alder, who died in a car crash Nov. 13.  Alder, 37 who worked in a Fulton  energy plant, served with the  department 10 years. He rose to the  rank of captain before leaving - Liverpool with his wife and four  children in 1995 and moving to Oswego County.  He was on the way home from his installation into the Volney Fire  Department when his car left  county Route 6 and overturned into  an irrigation ditch. "It was the loss of a good  firefighter and valuable person," said Moyers Corners firefighter David Ferguson, chairman of the  department's annual installation banquet Aider's widow, Karen, and his parents, Fran and Dian, will attend the banquet. Karen Alder will receive a memorial plaque, as will  the battalion commander for MoyersCorners Station Two, where Alder once volunteered. The plaques each laud Alder for "10 years of dedicated service." More than 200 firefighters and their families are expected to attend the banquet.

 

 

 

February 19th, 1997

 

Herald Journal

 

Baldwinsville man dies after car crash at Seneca Mall

 

A 73-year-old Baldwinsville man was pronounced dead at St Joseph's Hospital Health Center Monday afternoon after an automobile accident in the parking lot of The Shops at Seneca Mail, Route 57, Clay. Clay Police Investigator K. Bodah identified the dead man as Grant A. Back of 1103 Greymoor Way.  Back's car struck the driver's side . ofa car driven by F JP. Summerville, 56, of 49 Tappan St., Baldwinsville,  and pushed it into a large tree planter, officials said. Police said that when Summerville, who was uninjured, got out of his car and went to Back's  car, he saw Back was unconscious. Firefighters from the Moyers Corners Fire Department got Back out of his locked car and took him to the hospital

 

 

 

April 1997

 

Chicken BBQ at Station 1 with a profit of $495.60

 

 

 

April 9th, 1997

 

Vehicle extrication pictures

 

 

 

April 18th, 1997

 

Spaghetti Dinner at Station 1

 

 

 

May 1st  1997

 

Car Fire on Orion Path, Pictures –

 

 

 

May 8th, 1997

 

Herald Journal

 

Fake crash shows risk of drunk driving

 

Frederick Pierce

 

Like many teens who become involved in drunken driving accidents, Mary Troicke of Liverpool never expected to die. But there she was last Friday, lying motionless in the dented remains of a Toyota Celica while an official from the Onondaga County Medical Examiner's Office surveyed the scene. Soon, she was lying on a stretcher with a white, plastic body bag wrapped around her like a shroud. "It was weird," said Troicke, a Liverpool High School senior, shivering in a T-shirt spattered with fake blood as she recalled her surprise performance as a corpse. '(The rescuers) told me I was supposed to be dead. Then they carried me out and zipped that thing up around me." Troicke was one of four performing arts students who volunteered to help state police, the Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department and the medical examiner's office stage a mock DWI crash in front of the high school last week. They'd decided in advance which of the actors would die in the accident, but firefighters mistakenly rescued her, Troicke said. That forced them to declare her dead. "I was supposed to die, but I guess they revived me in the ambulance," joked Emili Abriola, 18, the intended fatality. "But that's OK, it was warmer in there.”

 

 

 

May 9th, 1997

 

Herald Journal

 

Woman dies, man injured in single-car crash in Clay

 

One woman was killed and a man seriously injured early today when their car crashed into a utility pole in Clay

 

The names of the victims were unavailable this morning The crash occurred shortly before 3 a m on Route 57 between Snappy Lane and Belmont Drive in front of the Kwik Fill service station. The car was apparently

 

northbound when it went off the side of the road and hit the pole said Moyers Corners Fire Department

 

Deputy Chief Ronald Turiello. The car wrapped around the pole when the driver s side of the car hit

 

it Turiello said The 43-year-old woman who was driving and her male passenger were trapped, Turiello said.

 

About 20 rescuers responded and used the equipment to free the victims The man was taken to Univeisity Hospital The Onondaga County Medical Examiner's Office pronounced the woman dead at the crash site at 4 35

 

Am. The impact ol the crash knocked wires off the pole, causing power failure to many residences and

 

businesses in the area Power was restored to most customers about 4 30 a m

 

 

 

May 16th, 1997

 

Fire badly damages empty home in Clay

 

Herald Journal

 

No one was home at 4247 Mill Run Road when a passerby discovered the blaze. Firefighters from Moyers Corners had the fire under control in about 10 minutes, but were still overhauling the smoky house an hour later. Gary Piontkowski of Clay said he was driving to work on a road behind Mill Run Road at 6.45 a.m. when he saw white smoke coming from the back of the house. As he rounded a bend, Piontkowski said he saw more smoke.  "I saw the smoke coming out an attic vent," Piontkowski said. "So I ran next door, banged on the door and told them to call 911." Piontkowski said another man, a Syracuse firefighter on his way to work, also stopped.  "We broke down the front door, gave a yell and figured there was nobody home," Piontkowski said.  By the time firefighters arrived, frames were coming through the roof, said Moyers Corners Fire Chief Greg Tiner. The fire spread throughout the upper floor and might have been burning for a while before it was discovered, Tiner said. m-. The residents were not at the house and fire officials were unsure when they had left.  County fire investigators were examining the house, looking for the cause.

 

 

 

May 18th, 1997

 

Chicken BBQ at Station 1 with a profit of $919.13

 

 

 

May 24th, 1997
Trailer Fire, pictures

 

 

 

May 30, 1997

 

Herald Journal
Injured firefighter recovers

 

“Ceiling collapse doesn’t deter Moyers Corners Lieutenant”

 

Mike Wick says he never saw it coming. "It" was a ceiling that collapsed on the lieutenant from the Moyers

 

Corners Fire Department as he battled a blaze last Friday afternoon in a North Syracuse home.

 

"I didn't see much of it," said Wick, 29, a volunteer firefighter for 10 years. The fire heavily damaged a house at 109 Brookhaven Road. Firefighters said a propane torch being used by workers on the roof apparently touched off the blaze. Wick and another firefighter from Moyers Corners, along with two firefighters from the Mattydale Fire Department, were in a first-floor back bedroom when the ceiling collapsed. The firefighters were covering the homeowners' personal belongings with tarps, trying to protect the property from smoke and water damage. "I  didn’t hear a thing " Wick said. "I asked for another tarp to cover something up, and next thing I knew I was lying on the ground." Wick believes the weight of water from firefighters battling the blaze on the upper floor and roof collapsed the ceiling. "I was dazed, but I never lost consciousness," Wick said. Suffering neck and shoulder pain, Wick was taken by ambulance to a hospital, where he was treated and released. He returned to the hospital the next day however, when his arms and fingers became numb. Doctors say he can't drive, lift objects or do strenuous labor and have ordered him to stay away from his job at Coca-Cola, where he creates store displays. But Wick promised he'd be back fighting fires as soon as he could. "I have no second thoughts I can't wait to get back into it," he said.

 

 

 

June 1997

 

MCFD and Auxiliary Scholarship winners Mike Alexander and Stephanie Morris

 

Picture

 

 

 

July 10th, 1997
Henry Clay Drill House, Pink House, burndown/99, pictures

 

   

 

July 31st, 1997

 

Herald Journal

 

Erin Duggan

 

Drag race may have cause Clay wreck

 

Drag racing may have caused a two-car crash in Clay that left nine people injured Wednesday. Sheriff’s deputies are looking for a third car that may have left the scene of the accident at 8:45 p.m. on Route 57, just north of Gaskin Road. One car traveling at "an apparent high rate of speed" attempted to pass a car and collided with a car in the oncoming lane, Onondaga County sheriffs deputies said. Five of the injured remained in a hospital this morning, but all appeared to be in stable condition without life-threatening injuries, nursing supervisors said. Deputies gave the following description of the accident: John Wright Jr., 16, of 8804 Gaskin Road, Clay was driving a maroon Chrysler New Yorker north on Route 57. Witnesses told investigators the car was traveling fast. Wright attempted to pass a car and crashed into an oncoming Oldsmobile driven by John H. Durham Jr.,

 

31, of 225 Fenway St., Syracuse that Wright passed, a red Nissan, may have been drag racing Wright's car and left the scene of the accident through a field, according to Sheriff’s department Sgt. Neal Hare. Two teen-agers were trapped in the Chrysler, according to Moyers Corners Fire Chief Gregory Tiner. Bonnie Searle. 17, who was at the scene, said her friends — four teen-agers from Phoenix High School — were in the Chrysler.

 

Pictures from Website

 

 

 

August 3rd, 1997

 

Chicken BBQ at Station 1 with a profit of $1031.16.

 

 

 

August 12th, 1997 – gold gym

 

Damaged confined to first floor

 

The fire was set in a room in the northeast corner of the building

 

By Jeff Stage and Peter Ortiz

 

Herald Journal

 

An arsonist apparently started a smoky fire early today that heavily damaged Gold's Gym in Clay, officials said.

 

"Absolutely," said Moyers Corners Fire Chief Greg Tiner when asked if the investigation indicated the fire was set in the building at 7455 Morgan Road. About 70 firefighters rushed to the fire at 12:15 a.m. after a passersby

 

noticed flames coming from the warehouse-style building. Firefighters also found an exterior door unlocked and open when no one should have been in the building. Firefighters had the blaze under control at 1:27 a.m. but remained on the scene another four hours, Tiner said. The fire was in the east building, one of two main sections of the health and fitness facility. The Tiner called the damage "moderate" and said it was confined to the first floor. "The biggest problem was the smoke," Tiner said. "Plus, there are very high ceilings in some areas." When the fire began to creep up to the second floor, firefighters used chain saws to cut holes in the roof.  Aside from doors opened to air the building out and a little bit of charred rubble, few signs of the fire were visible early today from outside the structure. Tiner made a "rough estimate" of the damage at $50,000. He said the owners hoped to reopen by the end of the week. Gold's Gym at 5791 Widewaters Parkway, DeWitt, is owned by Peter Thun, a manager at the De- Witt gym said today. She said members of the Liverpool facility can visit the DeWitt gym until the Liverpool facility reopens.

 

 

 

Personal trainers who work in Liverpool will shift to DeWitt for the time being, she said. "We have it nailed down to one room," Tiner said. Shawn and Christy Crowell were on their way home to the Westminster Complex on Morgan Road from work at University Hospital when they approached the Liverpool Bypass and Morgan Road intersection, south of Gold's Gym. "I could see what I thought was fog," Christy Crowell said. Christy Crowell said as they drove closer to the gym they could see heavy smoke coming from the roof and also flames shooting out of the roof. Shawn Crowell said the door to the gym, on the Morgan Road side, was slightly open. He did not see anyone near the gym. He also saw a red glow shining from inside. No one was inside when firefighters arrived. A man who had been cleaning the building was scheduled to lock up before the fire was discovered, but fire officials had not interviewed him early today, Tiner said. No cause or accelerants have been found yet, but investigators and evidence technicians were to re-enter the structure today. At the height of the fire, about 10 pieces of fire equipment, including three aerial ladder trucks, were around the building. Firefighters from Moyers Corners, Clay and six other departments responded

 

 

 

September 4th, 1997

 

Firsthand Firefighter Knowledge

 

The Post-Standard

 

At first glance, the room looks like the study area of any college dorm.  There's a computer, a printer, some books. A giant Budweiser beer banner hangs across one wall. A poster of Jim Carey, as the maniacal Fire Marshal Bill, decorates another.  But when the fire alarm goes off here, students don't run to escape down a stairwell. They slide down a brass pole outside their bedroom instead.  "It feels like you're a paid firefighter," said Greg Smith, a 20-year-old Onondaga Community College student who's made the adrenalin-filled trip down the pole more than a few times during the last year. 

Smith is one of three firefighters-in-training who took up residence last fall in one of the four stations run by the Moyers Corners Fire Department , as part of a new "Bunker" program. The young men, students in OCC's fire protection technology program, live in the fire halls as though they were in dorms. They do routine maintenance in lieu of paying rent. There, they live, eat and sleep their future profession. When a call comes in, they often get to travel with the crew, serving as an extra pair of helping hands while gaining valuable firefighting experience. "They don't go and watch what we do. They go and do what we do," said Ben Hall, coordinator of the Moyers Corners program. "They are firefighters." Smith, for example, was inside a burning Liverpool house at 410 First St. June 3 when firefighters were ordered to get out because the fire had grown too hot, he said. It was one of several house fires Smith has helped fight since moving into Station No. 1, at routes 31 and 57 in Clay. The first call came just a few days into the program. 

"Moyers Corners is a very busy department," said Brian Gray, 21, who recently graduated from OCC and moved out of the program. "Other departments have a bunking program, but they didn't quite offer the challenge I wanted." Last year, the 120-member volunteer department responded to nearly 2,000 calls, Moyers Corners Chief Greg Tiner said. By comparison, Schuyler, the small town east of Utica where Smith got his start as a volunteer firefighter and his father was chief, responds to only about 150 calls a year, Smith said. Maybe two of them turn out to be actual house fires, he said. The bunker program began at the University of Maryland, one of two schools in the country offering four-year degrees in fire-protection technology. Locally, OCC students have bunked with the South Onondaga and Taunton fire departments, Hall said. 

Moyers Corners is the first department in the northern suburbs to experiment with the program, the success of which "far exceeded" their expectations, Hall said. In fact, the students did so well, the department has doubled the number of bunking fire students it will host this fall semester, Tiner said. At Moyers Corners, five rookie-students have been assigned to the stations: one with Smith at Fire Station No. 3; one at Fire Station No. 2; and three at Fire Station No. 1. In addition to doing some of the maintenance and routine equipment checks that volunteers don't particularly like, the bunkers' presence in the station frequently improves the company's response time, Tiner said. A fire truck can't leave the station until at least four volunteers show up, Tiner said. If a trained student is already there, they're only three people away from taking off. 

In an era when increasing time demands by jobs and families have shrunk the pool of volunteers, Tiner believes the bunker program will soon become standard in most departments. "This is a challenge for the fire service," Tiner said of the difficulty in pulling enough people together to fight a fire. "We're looking for alternative routes to meet sufficient manpower without putting paid positions on." Eventually, Smith, Gray and other bunkers hope to land a paid firefighting position somewhere. Their experience in Moyers Corners should help them meet that goal, they said. While the trainees live in the fire stations, their fellow firefighters become their adopted family, Smith said. They have years of experience to plug into when they need help with assignments, and they can learn the little tricks and tips that don't get covered in class. 

"You get to actually see what you learned at school," said Smith, who spent the summer at Fire Station No. 1, but has now moved to Fire Station No. 3 on Henry Clay Boulevard at West Taft Road, where he'll be until late spring when he graduates. "You feel like you're making a difference." After graduation, he might continue the same program while pursuing a bachelor's degree at the University of Maryland, or take a fire service job if he finds a good one. "I've learned a lot," he said. "I've found that the teachings in class are related to what I do here." Last year Moyers Corners' bunkers were chosen from 18 candidates interviewed by the department, Tiner said. The three who were chosen went through a weeklong, 60-hour training course to make sure they knew what was expected of them and were able to meet the challenge of fighting a live fire. "Probee (probation) was pretty tough," Smith acknowledged. "We trained three times a day for two to three hours each." 

At the end of the first week, the trio fought a controlled blaze at Niagara Mohawk's fire school. About an hour and a half later, a call came in for a real structure fire. "They were a little tired that night," Tiner said with a chuckle. But the life of a bunker isn't all work and no play. People are always stopping by the station, and there's no shortage of social invitations, Smith and Gray said. "You'd think, after a while, you'd get tired of having people around, but I didn't" Gray said. "It was nonstop fun. If I could do it all over again, I would." Station No. 1 has a spacious lounge with a television, a videocassette recorder, a pool table, and a bar with soda pop available on tap. The bunkers sleep in their own bedroom off the communal sleeping area where volunteers sometimes spend the night. Bunkers have their own locked closet and their own locked cupboard in the institution-sized kitchen. Despite a shelf filled with noodles and boxes of Hamburger Helper, Smith insisted the bunkers eat very well. "It doesn't cost much to cook a great meal," he said, closing the cupboard door. "Also, I get invited to people's houses for dinner a lot." Although he aspires for a long career in the fire service, Smith's not ready to think about a chief or command job. He says he has a lot of learning and experience yet to gain. "I just want to start in whatever I can do," he said.

 

 

 

September 16th, 1997

 

Petra Fashion Show at Station 1 with a profit of $24.53

 

 

 

September 21st, 1997

 

Chicken BBQ at Station 1 with a profit of $2,515

 

 

 

October 1st, 1997 
Mill Run fire

 

At approximately 7:30am, Moyers Corners Fire Department was alerted to a reported fire in a residence on Mill Run Circle in the Town of Clay. There were numerous calls to Fire Control stating there was an active fire. Fire control also indicated that there may be three children trapped inside the house. Engine 41 (Lt. Crispin) arrived first and brought in the closest hydrant. There was heavy fire through the roof on the second floor. Engine 21 (Lt. Driscoll) arrived second and pumped Engine 41’s hydrant. Deputy Chief Steve Wisely arrived and established the command. Engine 41’s crew pulled an inch and three quarter handline and started for the second floor. Engine 21’s crew pulled a two inch handline to back up Engine 41. As Engine 41 made the top of the stairs, the nozzle man appeared to have problems with his scba. Lt. Crispin then notified Firefighter Steve Zaferakis to assist the nozzleman down the stairs and safely out of the house. Firefighter Zaferakis than handled Engine 41’s handline while Lt. Driscoll and Lt. Crispin operated Engine 21’s handline. Crews then made an attack on the bulk of the fire in two bedrooms. There were no children inside of the structure. Crews from Rescue 4, Truck 2, and Engine 31 assisted with search and rescue and overhaul. Interior attack line crews were met with unsafe conditions in one of the bedrooms as a bed had burned through the floor, landing on the kitchen table. Crews were able to indentify that the floor was compromised and made the attack and the entrance to the bedroom. The fire was extinguished in fifteen minutes.

 

 

 

October 9th, 1997

 

Departments Note Fire Prevention Week

 

The Post-Standard

 

By Juliana Gittler

 

The plaque on Dan Smith's wall says: "There's no honor in fighting a fire that could have been prevented through education." For Smith, the man in charge of fire prevention at the Moyers Corners Fire Department , this motto is the fire-prevention creed - that learning how to forestall a fire can help save lives. His experience proves that education can and does help. "Somewhere out there, education is paying off," he said. Martyn Quinn, commissioner of the Belgium-Cold Springs Fire Department, agrees. 

"Every ounce of prevention creates less incidents and less chance for injuries," he said. It seems to be working. As prevention programs have developed, the number of fires in the area has declined, as has injuries caused by fires, Quinn said. For the people involved in fire prevention, this week is special. Since 1925, the week in which Oct. 9 falls has been designated National Fire Prevention Week, meant to serve as an opportunity to review fire-safety and fire-prevention methods with the community. During the week, many area departments are holding open houses, demonstrations and school programs to teach or review basic fire-prevention and fire-safety tips. For many, the focal point is educating children - sometimes as young as nursery-school age. The departments teach children both how to prevent fires and how to survive them. They are taught not to be afraid if a person in a big fire suit comes into their room - by letting them see and feel the equipment firefighters wear. They also learn the stop-drop-and-roll method, in case an item of clothing catches on fire. 
The programs also teach children not to hide if there is a fire; to crawl on the floor below the smoke; and to have evacuation routes and safe meeting places coordinated with their families. Smoke-detector use and maintenance play heavily into the programs, as well.

 

 

 

 

 

October 14th, 1997
Avon Party at Station 1 with a profit of $919.13

 

 

 

October 24th, 1997

 

Station begins 1.2 million renovation

 

Syracuse Herald Journal
By Juliana Gittler

 

In Moyers Corners Fire station 2, on Morgan Road in four drawings are taped to paneled wall of the recreation

 

room, displaying several designs for a new and improved fire station. Below the drawings, a sign allows members of the department to sign up and vote for their. So far, gray trim with red doors is the winner. . The prototypes display different colors, but more imperially show the station after a $1.2 million renovation and expansion project started last week. If the aesthetics of the station seem frivolous, the project itself is very important, said Gary Johnson, the fire company president. The planned renovation will add needed space and will make the station safer. It also will repair some damaged and aged areas in the station and will provide more modern plumbing and electrical systems. As the population center, the Moyers Corners Fire District in Clay Station 2 is the meeting spot for the district meetings, training courses and  executive offices that are divided among the four stations in the 30-square-mile district; The department hopes to consolidate its administrative duties into the one station by expanding and improving it. The renovation project is the outcome of several years of planning initiated after one the station's walls began to deteriorate. When it was formed the department would need to pay roughly $100,000 to repair the faulty wall, the department decided to look into other options. "We could have fixed it cosmetically," Johnson said, "but it would have been just a Band Aid for the problem. Replacing the wall would cost around $100,000 with no guarantees The department formed a committee to investigate the options available and decided lt would be more cost-effective to tear down the existing station and build another in place, or to renovate the building. After weighing all the options with architects and engineers, the department decided the course would be renovation. They brought their proposal the town of Clay for approved in, 1995, and in 1996 the idea was approved.

 

 

 

 The project is expected to cost 2 million or less, and the cost will be spread out over 15 years through a commercial loan, Johnson said. “We looked for the minimum increase for the town," Johnson said. "We try to keep a slim budget." In terms of actual costs to Clay residents, Town Supervisor Patrick DiDomenico said fire rates probably will not change dramatically as a result of the project. Homeowners now pay $85 20 a year for fire protection in Clay. The financial details will be addressed later in the month when the fire districts negotiate their budgets with the town. DiDomemco said a public information meeting about the project will be held in November. In addition to more space, the renovated station will have better insulation, which will reduce utility costs. "We're always looking for ways to reduce static costs," said Capt. Bob Michelson, a member of the building committee created to organize the renovations. "The tightness of the new building will help utility bills" The renovated building also will meet more recent safety standards and will be accessible to people with disabilities. Moyers Corners Fire District operates four stations across Clay and provides service to about 60 percent of the town. Station 2 was built in 1960 and started with just two small truck bays. In 1972, a larger bay was added, along with a recreation room and a kitchen for the volunteers. In 1980, the station was renovated again, adding two more bays and a second floor to the building.

 

 

 

 As the department grows, more space is required to support the 100 or so volunteers, several trucks and mounds of equipment necessary to fight fires adequately across the district. All together, the renovation will add about 41,000 square feet to the station. Two drive-through truck bays will be added to the south side of the building to hold the largest fire trucks. On the north side, the original two bays built in 1960 will be converted with an expansion to the back of the building, to create a large meeting room and work area. Finally, the second story will be widened and a glass-enclosed spiral staircase will be added m the back. The station will have extra bunk space for volunteers staying overnight and a remodeled restroom. The project began last week and, weather permitting, will conclude in early spring of 1998, according to George Race, chairman of the building committee. "We have staged it so that the station will be operational at all times," he said. Moyers Corners is one of the nation's largest volunteer departments, in terms of the number of alarms it answers, and the largest in the state in terms of the population, alarms and equipment it handles, according to Michelson. As for the future station's colors, Michelson said letting everyone vote is a little way of making the station more pleasing to volunteers who spend much of their free time there. Since the department is staffed completely on a volunteer basis, having a nicer department helps build morale. "It's one of the intangibles," he said. "If you can have a nice place for them, it's one extra reason they might hang around more."

 

 

 

 

 

November 14th, 1997

 

Soup and Pie Dinner at Station 1 with a loss of $42.57

 

 

 

November 22nd, 1997
Harke Farm Chicken Coop, Probie training picture

 

 

 

 

 

November 24th, 1997

 

Vehicle Rollover M/A to Clay, Youtube

 

 

 

December 1997

 

Hartke Farm Burn Down

 

December 7th, 1997

 

Willis Michelson Obituary

 

Volunteered To Fill Need

 

Willis C. Michelson gave to his community for decades, through volunteer work in scouting, church and civic activities, the fire department and its ambulance squad. "He did it because he felt that there were people that needed some of the skills which he had, and he wanted to share those skills," said Mr. Michelson's son, Robert H. of Liverpool. Inspired by their father's example, Robert Michelson and his brother, David W. of Sodus, volunteer in their own communities. "Dad was, I think, the reason we are actively involved with others, not for personal gain but because the need is there," Robert Michelson said. Mr. Michelson, 76, of 111 Glenwood Drive South, Liverpool, died Friday of cancer of the esophagus at his home. 

He was born in Rochester and grew up in Eastwood, graduating in 1939 from Eastwood High School. He was a Liverpool resident for 45 years. Mr. Michelson retired in 1986 as a designer after 38 years with Crouse-Hinds. "He started out as a machinist but quickly moved into design," Robert Michelson said. Mr. Michelson designed electronic components including a hingeless conduit that Crouse-Hinds patented. "You name it, he did it ... heavy military, traffic control devices. He really enjoyed the problem-solving and the engineering that went into his work," his son said. Mr. Michelson enjoyed 35mm photography and vegetable and flower gardening. 

He was an Army Air Forces veteran of World War II, earning the rank of corporal. He received the World War II Victory Medal and the American Service Medal. He belonged to Liverpool First United Church and volunteered with the Boy Scouts for 28 years, specializing in adult leadership training. He was also assistant district commissioner for the Boy Scouts and received the Woodbadge Award. Mr. Michelson was part of Onondaga County's first Woodbadge course, an advanced leadership training program. In 1969, he received the Liverpool Rotary Club's Distinguished Citizen Award for his work with the Boy Scouts. 

He joined the Moyers Corners Fire Department in 1970 and was the fire police captain for several years. He was also treasurer of the department and an emergency medical technician with the ambulance squad. Mr. Michelson retired from the department as a life member and continued to serve as liaison between the town of Clay Planning Board, the department and several fire prevention and fire safety education committees. 

Surviving in addition to his sons are his wife of 48 years, Ruth L.; a sister, Arlene Michelson of Syracuse; a brother, Charles of Wilmington, N.C.; and one niece. Services are 7 p.m. Monday at Maurer Funeral Home Moyers Corners, 3541 Route 31, Baldwinsville. There are no calling hours. Contributions may be made to the Moyers Corners Firefighters Fund, Station 2, Box 2366, Liverpool 13089, or Hospice of Central New York, 990 Seventh North St., Liverpool 13088.

 

 

 

December 14th, 1997

 

Thanks to…

 

Syracuse Herald American
Those who helped with gas leak 
The Asanomas had something to really be thankful for Thanksgiving Day. On Nov. 13, we returned home at 4 p.m. to find our neighbor, Bernie Kaminski, and a Niagara Mohawk worker anxiously awaiting us because our house was filling up with natural gas from a leak between the main and our meter. Our other neighbor, Pat Tetor, had called NiMo about smelling gas at 3:30.   Thank goodness it never ignited! By 7 p.m., everything was back to normal. Even our tropical fish all survived the three hours without heat. We didn't get many names, but we would like to thank NiMo and their very efficient crews, all the volunteers from Moyers Corners Fire Department who stood by and helped vent the house, the Onondaga County Water Authority for staking out the water lines, and Santoro Fire Emergency and Restoration Services for boarding up the broken windows to allow us to reheat the house.  A very special thanks goes to that NiMo person who arrived first and stayed till the last to ease our minds by going throughout the house with his gas meter to show us there was no gas residual. Also, a great big thank-you to all our neighbors who were quick to offer the warmth of their homes while we watched the crews work to save our home from a possible disaster. Thank you all! 

- Bob, Joanne and  Jingles Asanoma

 

 

 

1998
Chief Greg Tiner
 First Deputy Chief: Ron Turiello
Second Deputy Chief Steve Wisely
Battalion 1 Chief Ken Filow
Battalion 2 Chief Steve Bressette
Battalion 3 Chief Jeff Wisely
Station 1 Captain Mike Zaferakis
Station 2 Captains Bob Driscoll, Jim Wisnowski 
Station 3 Captains Steve Dembowski, Ron Jennings
Station 4 Captain Jason Blake
Station 1 Lieutenants: Ben Hall, Ron Florczykowski, Rich Bittel

 

Station 2 Lieutenants: Steve Race, Bob Michelson, Steve Zaferakis
Station 3 Lieutenants: EJ Stevens, Tom Staves, Mike Wick, Dennis Lyons
Station 4 Lieutenants: Frank Crispin, John Kennedy

 

Executive Board
 President Gary Johnson
Vice President Chet Fritz 
Secretary John Perkins, Assistant Secretary Bill Siemers 
Treasurer Geoff Maes, Assistant Treasuer Deb Freeman

 

Fire Police:  Captains Bob Swahn, Tom Delasin
 Lieutenants: Ken Brand Sr., Dave Ferguson, Steve Mauser, Dick Kyle, Gary Johnson

 

Bunk Ins: Chad Barnes, Bill Bliss, Chris Lloyd, Greg Smith, Bob Nightingale

 

 

 

Auxiliary: President Linda Gobin, Vice President Clara Dreitlein, Recording Secretary Jean Jones, Corresponding Secretary Carolyn Funnell-Woods, Treasurer Sandy Morris, Chaplain Lorraine Sahm

 

Scholarship Winner: Michael Kenyon

 

- Website goes online

 

Composite Picture

 

 

 

January 4th, 1998

 

Herald Journal

 

Fire claims family’s possessions

 

Mary Margaret Earl

 

A Clay family lost its possessions and holiday gifts, save a Christmas puppy, when a fire gutted their Wetzel Road home Saturday afternoon. Seven people from 10 months to 17 years old — who were in the house when the fire began escaped uninjured. Three cats and a snake also survived in the 4330 Wetzel Road blaze, one cat apparently died. One girl fled without shoes or coat, then ducked back in to rescue a puppy named Charcoal "I'm fine," said 10-year-old Lindsay Gardner, as she stood in her stocking feet, cradling the black-and-white pup. "I just have nothing left" The fire, which began m the basement, was reported about 2pm. About 30 Moyers Corners firefighters doused the blaze in an hour. Fire investigators were searching for the cause, which did not appear to be suspicious, said Peter Alberti, assistant fire coordinator for Onondaga County A spare heater may have caused the blaze, he said Lindsay's mother, Pam Gardner, wasn't home when the fire began She was upset to learn Lindsay had reached into the house for the puppy, she remembered the Salina man who died in October after running into his burning apartment for his dog Gardner had cried for a   day over his death. "I was extremely mad she went in to save a puppy," Gardner said "... I would not have let her go back in the house No way." The family's brown-shingled Cape Cod house was standing Saturday evening, but most of its contents were ruined. The family did not have renters insurance. "I lost everything. All my new stuff, Christmas presents, clothes," said Steven Lashomb, who had begun renting the house with Gardner, his girlfriend, in November.

 

 

 

They and their five children, ages 17 to 10 months, lived in the home. Two teen-age friends of the family also had been staying with them, and another of Lashomb's sons was visiting Saturday. Lashomb and Gardner had gone to Toys R Us Saturday afternoon to exchange a toy. They were gone perhaps 15 minutes when they were paged over the store's intercom, Gardner said. They immediately returned home. "You could smell the fire a mile away," she said Gardner said one of the teens staying with the family, Billy Dillabough, was dozing in a basement bedroom, heard a crackling and awoke. He ran upstairs and got everyone out of the house, Gardner said. "If Billy hadn't have woken up, everybody would be dead," Gardner said. Lindsay Gardner ran out, then peered inside. When she saw the fire hadn't yet reached the first floor, she ducked in for Charcoal — who was a few feet from the door The family had rescued the puppy from a snowbank Christmas Eve.

 

 

 

January 15th, 1998

 

Fire Department Finds 23 VCR’s in Practice Vehicle

 

The Post-Standard

 

By Juliana Gittler

 

A hacked-up truck used for extrication practice by the Moyers Corners Fire Department turned out to be an unlucky spot to stash videocassette recorders. A firefighter on Saturday discovered 23 VCRs stuffed in the truck, which was parked behind Moyers Corners Station 3, Clay police reported. Moyers Corners Battalion Chief Steve Wisely said the truck had been cut up during practices and was missing windows and other parts.  The fire department had no idea how long the VCRs were there or where they came from. 

Police are investigating.

 

January 22nd, 1998

 

MCFD helps North Country

 

Herald Journal

 

Volunteers firefighters from the northwestern suburbs help with relief work in the ice storm aftermath. more than 100 other Onondaga County volunteer  firefighters braved slick roads, raging rivers and fallen electrical wires to offer their services to then northern neighbors But the work involved far more than fighting fires Firefighters rescued people in flooded areas — sometimes by boat They pumped water out of basements and cleared paths across roads and up to houses. Some helped with medical needs at shelters or carried firewood The firefighters tell their stories like veterans of a war with nature "I've seen some rough things in my time,' Moyers Corners Chief Greg Tiner said "But when I went up there, I wasn't prepared to see what I saw " They faced fractured trees and utility poles strewn across the roadways, rising rivers and entangled, downed utility wires.

 

 

 

Nick Eldred, Jim Farrance, Mike O'Conner, Sean Schermerhorn, Bill Siemers, Chuck

 

Smith, Dan Smith, Chief Greg Tmer, John Waldron

 

 

 

February 19th, 1998

 

Man dies in Clay park fire

 

Julianna Gittler

 

Herald Journal

 

Picture of S. Zaferakis in front of trailer

 

A man died Wednesday in a mobile- home fire in Clay touched off by fumes 'from solvent he was using to clean a lawn mower inside the house, police said. They believe the victim is the resident of the home. However, sheriff’s deputies are awaiting official word from the Onondaga County medical examiner's office before confirming his identity. The fire broke out about 11 a.m. and quickly gutted the mobile home at 3212 Burnham Court in the Casual Estates mobile-home park. Piles of old newspapers and other debris throughout the i2-foot-by-60-ioot house helped the fire spread, officials said. Casual Estates officials and neighbors said the owner and only resident of the home was 64-year-old Herman Koes, 64, who had lived there for more than 25 years.The fire victim's body was found face-down in a hallway of the home "en route to the door," Onondaga County Fire Investigator Tom Cook said. Cook said he believed the victim died quickly.

 

 

 

Onondaga County Sheriff’s Department spokesman Michael LeFebvre said fire investigators believe the victim was working on one of several lawn.mowers in the house when he spilled some solvent. He then opened some windows and removed his solvent soaked clothing. He was cleaningup the spill when the furnace came on, igniting the solvent fumes. Jennifer Hall, who lives near the burned home, said that when she came home late Wednesday morning she saw smoke at the mobile home and called 911. The Moyers Corners Fire Department arrived within 10 minutes, she said. Hall said she saw Koes' red Ford pickup truck parked nearby. "I knew he was in there," she said. Another neighbor, Jeremy Hill, tried to reach the man before firefighters arrived. Hill said he and another neighbor called inside the home, but heard no answer. Heat and flames kept them at bay. r ireiighieis LOOK less uhan 15 minutes to extinguish the blaze, Moyers Corners Deputy Chief Stephen Wisely said. They found the body shortly after that. Neighbors said Koes was a quiet man who kept to himself and took meticulous care of his lawn. Two trimmed bushes on the side of the home were all that remained after the fire. Neighbors nicknamed Koes "Shotgun Herman" after the gun cabinet and rounds of ammunition he kept, said Diana Atkinson, a neighbor. Koes' brother, Robert, said Wednesday evening that he had not heard anything from police or fire officials.

 

 

 

 Herman grew up in Cicero and graduated from high school there in 1951. Robert Koes said his brother worked at General Electric Co. in the 1970s, but had been retired for many years. He said Herman Koes liked trout fishing and building model airplanes. At the fire scene Wednesday afternoon, a few pieces of charred wood and debris held the burned and contorted roof off the ground. Neighbors stood by, some amazed the three other manufactured homes sitting yards away from the ashes were practically unscathed. Firefighters had formed a line between the burning building and others around it to contain the fire.

 

After the fire was out, firefighters removed a .22-caliber rifle anda BB gun from the debris. The shells of several lawn mowers were found in the rubble with stacks of smoldering newspapers, some dating back 10 years, LeFebvre said. Casual Estates officials say there have been about 10 fires at the 900-unit. 140-acre mobile-home park in the last 15 years. Two fires occurred at Casual Estates last year, both destroying mobile homes.

 

 

 

April 18th, 1998

 

Roast Beef Dinner at Station 1 with a profit of $486.72

 

 

 

April 26th, 1998

 

Chicken BBQ at Station 1 chaired by Linda Gobin and Sandy Morris with a profit of $317.85

 

 

 

April 26, 1998

 

Herald Journal

 

Ped bird dies in Clay house fire

 

Firefighters rescued a family's dog from a burning house Saturday in  Clay that claimed the life of their pet bird, said Moyers Corners Deputy Fire Chief Ron Turiello. Michael Savmo of 101 Woodspath Road was mowing his lawn about 2 30 p m when he noticed smoke from the kitchen window, Turiello said. Most of the fire was contained to the kitchen area, but heat damaged an adjoining living room, Turiello said. Onondaga County fire investigators are searching for the cause.

 

 

 

April 29th, 1998

 

Tractor Trailer Rolls Over a Car, Trapping Woman

 

The Post-Standard

 

By Cammi Clark

 

A Liverpool woman was trapped in her car after a tractor-trailer's wheels rolled over it Tuesday afternoon at the Wegmans parking lot on Taft Road in Clay, Onondaga County sheriff's deputies said. A Moyers Corners Fire Department rescue crew peeled back the car's roof to free Lori Irvin, 36, of Sandpiper Road from her crumpled 1996 Buick Skylark, according to Deputy Mike LeFebvre. Irvin was in good condition at St. Joseph's Hospital Health Center Tuesday. The truck and car were leaving the Wegmans parking lot at 4999 W. Taft Road when the accident happened, LeFebvre said. The tractor-trailer driver, James Battaglia, 28, of Monaca, Pa., ran over the top of Irvin's car as he tried to turn right onto West Taft Road, deputies said. Battaglia was charged with improper turning, LeFebvre said.

 

 

 

April 30th, 1998

 

Another Sellout for Fire Department’s Barbeque
The Post-Standard

 

By Bethany Clough

 

The chicken barbecues at the Moyers Corners Fire Department station are always popular. And Sunday's supper was no exception. The Moyers Corners Fire Department Auxiliary, a group that supports the fire department, on Sunday held one of five chicken barbecues it will sponsor this year. "Our barbecues are always well-received," said Auxiliary President Linda Gobin. Members of the Moyers Corners Sports Club, a group made up mostly of retired firefighters, cooked the chicken outside Station 1, at routes 57 and 31 in Clay. They began selling the dinners at noon and were sold out by 3 p.m. For the price of the dinner - $6, or $5.50 for senior citizens - community members received half a chicken, salt potatoes, coleslaw, rolls and ice cream. Many of the people who attended were senior citizens, Gobin said. "We have a great support system with a lot of senior citizens in the neighborhood," she said. The money raised will go toward supporting the fire department for projects like buying supplies for the station and providing refreshments for firefighters who are working on a particularly long fire. Some of the money raised Sunday will go toward scholarships for children of the fire department volunteers or auxiliary members, or to members of the Explorer post. Every year, the department awards two $500 scholarships to help pay college costs. The Moyers Corners Fire Department has been holding chicken barbecue dinners and other fund-raisers, such as a recent roast-beef dinner, for years, Gobin said. The chicken dinner used to be a part of the fire department's field days, which included rides, gambling and a bigger dinner. Since a lamp set the station on fire and it burned down in 1989, the auxiliary hasn't had the kitchen space to do such a dinner. But they have had the chicken barbecues, five times a year, ever since. The next dinner will be May 31.

 

 

 

May 7th, 1998

 

Rummage Sale at Station with a profit of $256.

 

 

 

May 8th, 1998

 

Syracuse Newspapers

 

Juliana Gittler

 

Moyers Corners department turns 50

 

Behind a procession serenaded by bagpipes, five distinguished guests will enter the Four Points by Sheraton hotel in Salina Saturday. Inside the five men will be treated to a grand banquet attended by hundreds of people — a fire department's way of saying thanks to the remaining founding members of the Moyers Corners Fire Department in Clay The affair marks the 50-year anniversary of the fire department, now the largest volunteer department in Onondaga County An expected 450 people will salute the five special guests and the department that started after an argument a half-century ago To document our department’s history — explaining its origins and developments — the department sponsored a 58-page book which will be unveiled at the banquet. Department volunteer Tom Delasin crafted the book and helped organize the banquet In the book, he's called executive editor, but he also serves as the department’s fire police captainand chairman of the department's Radio Committee, which handles communications issues And, he said, he's a bit of a history nut. "It was quite an undertaking for me," he said, standing before the folding table — covered in computer equipment and old newspapers articles —on which he wrote the book "I've never undertaken anything as large as this " In the book, Delasin describes the department's origin. "Let's go back to that cold and damp November day which found Ken Brand standing helplessly, watching Lyman Melvin's garage burn down "

 

 

 

The book says other local fire departments wouldn't help because their insurance didn't extend to the area, no matter how Much. Brand, a bystander, argued and pleaded with them. The next day, plans began for the future department The book adds- "They held their first meeting in a cow barn with approximately 15 men, who all paid $20 dues After a 'public hearing' with the town of Clay, the search was on for a fire truck." The department never lost a firefighter to a fire, Delasin said They have had a handful of injuries. The most striking became known as the "man down" call, when firefighter Joe Jefski fell through a floor and broke his shoulder in 1987.  That call is one of many Delasin events compiled in his department history "The history has never been documented" before, Delasin said. "You have to preserve these things before you lose them." The department’s anniversary committee began planning the banquet more than a year ago. They decided to dub the evening “The Charter Members Evening” to honor the founders including Brand, who will be one of five honored including William Arnold, Richard Dudley, Edwin Melvin, and Anthony Rybinski.

 

 

 

May 9th, 1998

 

MCFD 50th Anniversary Installation Banquet held at Four Points Sheraton, Liveprool

 

Pictures

 

 

 

May 18th, 1998

 

Auxiliary Banquet held at RFH Hideaway in Phoneix. President Linda Gobin, Vice President Norma Guinta, Recording Secretary Jean Jones, Corresponding Secretary Clara Dreitlein, Treasuer Sandy Morris. Louise Gillespy receiver a plaque for 50 years of service. Picture of Louise

 

 

 

May 31st, 1998

 

Chicken BBQ at Station 1 co-sponsored with the Sports Club.

 

 

 

June 1998

 

MCFD and Auxiliary Scholarship winner Michael Kenyon

 

Picture

 

 

 

July 1998

 

Engine 21 Mutual Aid to Clay

 

Fortuna Parkway House Fire

 

Article pictures

 

 

 

July 21st, 1998

 

Accidents

 

The Post-Standard
5:57 p.m. July 16, Buckley Road, a quarter-mile east of Morgan Road, Clay. Elizabeth J. Kane, 41, of 4000 Bel Harbor Drive, Liverpool, told police that she had been driving west on Buckley road when she lost consciousness and veered off the north shoulder of the road, causing the vehicle to come back onto the pavement and veer over the double solid yellow lines and into eastbound traffic. Kane's vehicle collided head-on with a vehicle driven by Nancy R. Clark, 32, of RD 1, Box 218, Friendship. The Moyers Corners Fire Department extricated Kane, whom the North Area Volunteers Ambulance Corps took to University Hospital for a complaints of rib and internal pain, police said. Moyers Corners Rescue also took two passengers of Kane's vehicle, 9-year-old and 6-year-old girls, to University Hospital, police said. The 6-year-old complained of shoulder pain. The Moyers Corners Fire Department extricated Clark, whom Rural/Metro took to St. Joseph's Hospital Health Center. Clark complained of head, hip, chest, foot and chin pain, police said. Kane was charged with failure to keep right. State police investigated.

 

 

 

July 26th, 1998

 

Chicken BBQ at Station 1 with a profit of $833.67

 

 

 

 

 

July 27th, 1998

 

Herald Journal

 

Fire destroys mobile home in Clay

 

Erin Duggan

 

A mobile home m Clay was leveled within minutes after catching fire Sunday evening, said Moyers Corners Fire Chief Ronald Turiello. No one was injured in the blaze.  Neighbors in Casual Estates off Route 57 said they began to notice smoke coming from the home around 5.30 p.m. Before firefighters could hose the home down, it was destroyed. "I saw smoke, and then it just went," Jean Clark said with a snap of her fingers. "It was maybe five second" Investigators said the fire began on a stove and spread quickly Turiello said three nearby mobile homes sustained heat damage The homeowner's name was not available Sunday night. Turiello said the 80-year-old father of one resident was the only person in the trailer at the time When the man attempted to re-enter the burning structure, a neighbor held him back. Casual Estates residents gathered Sunday to watch the fire As the last embers were hosed down, there was talk of what precautions mobile home owners can take "I've got a fire extinguisher and smoke alarms," said Jim Buchcr, a father of four who said he worries about his own mobile home catching fire. "At least the alarms give you time to get the kids out."

 

 

 

July 27th, 1998

 

Herald Journal

 

Computer board fire damages Clay business

 

A computer board processing nachine caught fire at a Clay jusiness early Monday, sending smoke throughout the empty building. The fire at SSAC Inc., 7460 Morgan Road, began around 5:30 i.m., said Ron Turiello, deputy chief of the Moyers Corners Fire Department. It was contained to the machine and the area immediately

 

around it and was quickly extinguished, but smoke was billowing through the building and

 

out the roof when firefighters

 

 

 

August 9th, 1998
Thanks To…
Herald American
We would like to offer our gratitude and many thanks for the wonderful support we received when our daughter was hit by a driver.  Many thanks to our family, who has been there through it all. To our friends and many others, who called and had us in their prayers. To the Moyers Corners EMTs, the doctors and nurses at University Hospital, and especially Dr. Criscitiello and Kristen, for being there with Michelle until the ambulance arrived.  All of you are such wonderful people and will always hold a special place in our hearts. 

- The Trombley Family

 

 

 

August 27th, 1998

 

Herald Journal

 

If it’s fire related, there’s a Wisely presence

 

Juliana Gittler

 

When a strange smell emanated from a fire at the Syroco factory in Van Buren earlier this month, Baldwinsville firefighters opted for a hazardous-materials crew to The call was sent: Any "Haz-Mat" personnel report to the scene to investigate. Beepers around the county were activated, and awhile later, three people were there: Stephen and his sons Kevin and Jeff. All three are on the county Haz-Mat team. All three teach firefighting at the Public Safety Institute at Onondaga Community College. And all three are fire chiefs — Stephen, 55, and Jeff, 30, both with the Moyers Corners Fire Department in Clay; and Kevin, 33, with the neighboring Belgium-Cold Springs Fire Department in Lysander. "At any given moment, you can find a Wisely" at a fire-related activity, Stephen Wisely said. Fire department membership rolls frequently list several members of a family. But the Wisely’s differ in their contribution to the service. "We've gone further than just being in the fire service and active in our own departments," Kevin Wisely said. The three teach, lead, coordinate, investigate and, of course, fight fires. The leadership positions and associated responsibilities maintained by the three make ,their family unique, Stephen Wisely says. Firefighters often are introduced to firefighting by family members who volunteer. "You don't see too many people just walk in and join," Stephen said. But, that's pretty much what he did.

 

 

 

The Wisely family firefighting line began in 1961, when Stephen joined a department in Loudonville. "It seemed like an interesting thing to do/' Wisely said. He had no other serious inducement. He became chief there, while his sons grew more and more familiar with firefighting. In 1979, a job transfer brought the family to Central New York, into the Moyers Corners Fire District of Clay. One after another, Kevin, Jeff and Stephen's middle son, Tim,  joined the department's Explorer group, a program for teens that introduces them to adult vocations and hobbies. Kevin also was an Explorer in Loudonville. Kevin and Jeff then "began volunteering with the department after high school. As a firefighter Stephen fully appreciates the dangers and time pressures of firefighting. But, he said, he doesn't fear for his sons' safety. "They know the risks. They know how to be safe," he said. Stephen's wife, Karen, tries to remain relaxed about the dangers. "It's always a concern," she said, especially when she knows all  three are at a fire. But she added that her husband and two sons are happy. And she's proud of them. "I try to put it out of my mind" when they're at a fire, she said. "And before you know it, they're home." After volunteering with dad's department, Kevin moved to Liverpool, where he joined the village's fire department; and later to Belgium- Cold Springs, his father said. Kevin now is assistant chief there. Jeff stayed at the same fire station as his father and is battalion chief for Moyers Corners. He said his father never nudged him into fire service. It was a decision that just felt right after being around fire protection for so many years. Jeff Wisely is modest about his family's fire-service feat. "It happens to be a coincidence all of us are chiefs right now," he said. Stephen is deputy chief of the Moyers Corners Fire Department. He's also deputy commissioner at the Onondaga County 911 Center and deputy fire coordinator for Haz-Mat. Kevin and Jeff are leaders on the Haz-Mat team, and Kevin is a state fire instructor. "We all enjoy doing it," Kevin said. "It's something we've done a long time."

 

 

 

September 17th, 1998

 

Storm Forced Victims To Look Outward

 

The Post-Standard

 

By LeDatta Grimes

 

An hour or so before the Labor Day storm, Jason Cassalia was in bed watching television. Flipping through channels, he saw a weather advisory scroll across his TV screen. It was a tornado warning. "I thought nothing of it," Cassalia said. "I said, `Hey, it's just a lightning storm."' Mid-storm, he changed his mind. "By that time, my wife and I were scrambling through the house, trying to shut all the windows," said Cassalia, an investigator with Manlius police. By storm's end, both Cassalia and his property were devastated. "A tree hit my roof, another the side of my house," he said. "Another took out my deck, my new picnic tables, chairs. I looked outside, and another tree was on top of my unmarked police car." THEN THE PHONE rang. "Just as we were trying to figure out what was happening at our own house, duty called," Cassalia said. Within 90 minutes, Cassalia was in uniform patrolling the streets of Manlius. He was among dozens of emergency workers in the eastern suburbs who had to forget their own troubles and head to work in the storm's aftermath. 

Cassalia's 3 a.m. commute to work was a job in itself. Several times, he said, downed utility poles and power lines forced him to detour from his normal route. Other times, he got out of the car to move the fragmented tree limbs and debris blocking the road. As Cassalia cleared a path to Manlius, fellow police Officer Randy Goodale was answering a different call. Labor Day was Goodale's day off, but it wasn't a day of rest. AS THE STORM erupted, Goodale was called to the Moyers Corners Fire Department , where he serves as a volunteer firefighter. He arrived by 1:30 a.m. and stayed until 6 a.m. There, he responded to gas leaks and evacuated homes and trailers. Then, it was on to the Manlius Fire Department, where he works as a paid, part-time paramedic. "I thought the damage was bad there (in Moyers Corners), but I came out here and saw bad," Goodale said. As soon as Goodale arrived at the Manlius firehouse, he was sent out on a call. Four more calls came quickly. He tended to a broken leg, a knee laceration and a person having difficulty breathing. Those are the calls he remembers. The rest became a blur, as he responded to one call after another. "I got out of there at 5 (p.m.)," Goodale said. "Still without power, I got cleaned up, showered and went to bed because I knew I was going to get back in here (Manlius) early." He was called into work at 4 a.m. Tuesday. He arrived at the police station by 4:45 a.m. CASSALIA and Goodale began their day at the deployment board, a board marked with red and blue ink that details officers' assignments. At the top of the board, the town of Manlius is divided into three regions: North, Central and South. The northern area consists of everything north of Route 5, including Minoa and Kirkville. Central is the Fayetteville area and South is the greater Manlius area south of Route 92. Both Cassalia and Goodale worked the Central area from 4 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Normally, Cassalia, an investigator, wears a suit and tie to work. Tuesday, he donned his former blue patrol suit to hit the road. "I got assigned to the Fayetteville area," Cassalia said. " I was assigned to assist residents with whatever type of complaint we could." The majority of calls weren't crime-related. Cassalia said he did a lot of status checks. After the storm, people outside the area became concerned about relatives and friends in Manlius whom they could not reach by phone. Cassalia's job was to physically check on these people and report to their relatives. Other calls involved responding to burglary and home security alarms, and inspecting generators in the dark. GOODALE PATROLLED the Southfield Drive area. There, he said, he saw some of the worst devastation in the town. "It was just total destruction," he said. "Houses, trees, cars and vehicles were destroyed. One of my concerns was being able to get to the residents if they had an emergency." Cassalia and Goodale had other worries: their personal lives. Goodale had been scheduled to go on vacation Sept. 11. Manlius Police Chief Richard Carbery canceled all vacations and leaves the day the storm hit because he needed the officers to patrol the village. Cassalia was worried about his house. During his 12-hour shifts last week, he had no time to take care of insurance needs or damage assessments. With a job in public safety, work sometimes outweighs concerns at home. "I'm concerned about getting stuff squared away at my own house, but I know that I've got to work," Cassalia said. "I'm tired, too, but I'm sure a lot of people are completely exhausted." 

GOODALE'S VACATION was cleared at 11 a.m. Sept. 10. He left for Virginia Beach on schedule the next morning as Cassalia worked his fifth 12-hour day. Cassalia's said he's holding up OK - with a little help and inspiration. He got home about 4:30 or 5 p.m. Sept. 9 and traded his uniform for yard clothes and got to work clearing debris. He stayed outside through dark. He fell in bed about 11 p.m. Then he heard a noise outside: A neighbor with a chain saw was cutting tree limbs in Cassalia's back yard. "That's happening all over the place," Cassalia said. "Neighbors helping neighbors, not just in my neighborhood, not just in Manlius, but all over the county."

 

 

 

October 25th, 1998

 

Residents get glimpse of renovated fire station
Herald Journal

 

Less than a year ago, Chad Barnes slept in a plain, white-walled fire chiefs office."It was an old open room with a bunk bed and white concrete walls," said Barnes, a 21-year-old intern at Moyers Comers Fire Department

 

Station 2. Now, Barnes .sleeps in a bedroom There's desks, cabinets, a twin-size bed and fresh paint. It's great in this new building," Barnes said. "We have better sleeping quarters." Barnes was one of 35 firefighters

 

at Station 2 who spent Saturday afternoon telling the community how much they like the renovated station.

 

Approximately 200 people toured the station at 7697 Morgan Road. Clay The renovations cost $1.2 million.

 

"The idea is to get this building to work for us," Moyers Corners Fire Chief Greg Tiner said. "This was long time coming." The renovation includes a training room, two offices, sleeping facilities, a kitchen, a recreation

 

room, a storage room and an additional spot for fire trucks

 

 

 

 October 29th, 1998

 

Syracuse Newspapers – Neighbors Northwest

 

Andrea Irvin

 

Firefighters create a base for the 21st century

 

Less than a year, ago, Chad Barnes slept in a plain, white walled fire chiefs office. "It was an old open room with a bunk bed, and white concrete walls," said Barnes, 21-year-old intern at Moyers Comers Fire Department Station 2. Now, Barnes sleeps in a bedroom. There's a desk, cabinets, a twin size bed, and fresh paint, "It's great in this new building," Barnes said. Barnes was one of 35 firefighters at the Moyers Comers Fire Station 2 who spent Saturday afternoon telling the community how much they like the station's renovation. Approximately 200 people toured the fire station at 7697 Morgan Road, Clay. "I was awakened by .the work, crews early in the morning," said Chris Lloyd, a 22-year-old intern at Station 2. "Saws, drills, jackhammers, you name it." "But it's nice to see changes in the fire department," Lloyd said. The total cost for the renovation was $1.2 million. "The idea is to get this building to work for us," said Moyers Corners Fire Chief Greg Tiner. Barnes and Lloyd are second- year students from Onondaga Community College, and part of the Moyers Comers Fire Department Bunker program. The Bunker program is an internship for firefighters-in-training. The interns live in one of the four stations run by the Moyers Comers department as part of the program. The young men, students in OCC's fire protection technology program, live in the fire halls as though they were in dorms. They do routine maintenance in lieu of paying rent. There, they live, eat and sleep their future profession. When a call comes in, they often get to travel with the crew, serving as an extra pair of helping hands while gaining valuable experience.' The renovation at Station 2 includes a training room, two offices, sleeping facilities, a kitchen, recreation and storage rooms, and an additional spot for fire trucks. "This was a long time coming” Tiner said. "It took a lot of work to bring us into the 21st. century and it increases-the efficiency of the building," he said. Tiner said the changes will allow at least four firefighters to sleep in the facility, decreasing response time to fires. The project took four years of planning. Battalion Chief Sieve Bressette said the renovation makes things more efficient. "This is a lot more functional," Bressette said.

 

 

 

November 24th, 1998

 

Feeding Time

 

Herald Journal

 

Moyers Corners firefighters clean up cattle-grain pellets that spilled from a tractor-trailer that

 

tipped on its side about 3:30 p.m. Monday in Clay, tying up traffic for more than three hours. The

 

driver. Gene R. Edwards, 51, of Stittville, was traveling east on Wetzel Road, and was attempting a left turn onto Henry Clay Boulevard when his load shifted and the truck tipped, according to Onondaga County Sheriff's Department spokesman John D'Eredita. Edwards was treated at St. Joseph's Hospital Health Center for a head injury and released, D'Eredita said. No tickets were issued. It took three tow trucks and more than three hours to get the tractor-trailer righted. Henry Clay Boulevard was closed between Wetzel Road and Waterhouse Road, according to Moyers Corners Deputy Fire Chief Ronald Turiello.

 

 

 

December 10th, 1998

 

Investigators say Clay fire suspicious

 

Herald Journal

 

Fire investigators are calling an early morning fire that broke out in a wood pallet manufacturing plant in the town of Clay suspicious, officials said. Deputy Chief Ronald Turiello said the 3:45 a.m. fire and damage was confined to a large room between two pieces of machinery in the middle of Ihe T.H. Drum manufacturing plant at 4594 Buckley Rd. Turiello said the fire was knocked down 15 minutes after Moyers Corners firefighters arrived on the scene. The plant's sprinkler system kept the fire under control, Turiello said. Turiello said the building's owner had not been there since 5:30 p.m. Wed. and no one should have been in the building until later in the morning. There were no reported injuries, Turiello said. Town of Clay police are investigating, Turiello said.

 

 

 

December 31st, 1998

 

Neighbors North Article

 

Chief Steps Down a Rung

 

Moyers Corners has a new leader Friday

 

By Julianna Gittler

 

The responsibility is akin to running a corporation, with a 100-person staff and a million-dollar budget. But the job pays nothing, takes 35 hours a week of your time and can put you at odds with town official during budget times. It’s not a job for the light-hearted. Moyers Corners Fire Chief Greg Tiner took up the challenge for the last five years. And now he has decided to step aside and let someone else take the job. “I decided to step down to allow the natural progression occur,” Tiner said. He wants to infuse fresh ideas and fresh skills inot the largest volunteer fire department in Onondaga County in terms of membership. It’s second to Liverpool in call volume. Tiner on Friday will be replaced by his deputy chief for the past five years, Ronald Turiello, who was elected by the department’s members.Tiner is leaving behind a mountain of accomplishments – making him feel the time is now right to leave.

 

 

 

During his tenure as chief, the deparment became computerized for more efficient communication between its four stations; began a bunk-in program for college students studying fire service who want experience; renovated Station 2, near the Bayberry and Irongate neighborhoods; and helped foster and develop a better working arrangement between the town of Clay and the fire department. The town of Clay receives fire protection from five departments – Brewerton, Caughdenoy, Clay, Moyers Corners, and North Syracuse – and each department negotiates its budget with the town. The town then adds all the budges and divides by the number of residents, so everyone in Clay pays the same amount for fire protection. In the past, budget negotiations could be tough. Town officials would go through Moyers Corners’ nearly $1 million budget line by line, Tiner said. “Every time budget time came around, there seemed to be problems,” with town officials questioning various expenses, Tiner said. So Tiner created a line of communication between the town and his deparmtnet. Clay Town Councilor James Rowley became a liason with the fire department, keeping him up to date on its budgetary process.  When the time came for the town to approve the fire department budget, town officials had been prompted and prepared.

 

 

 

For the first time in recent years, the process moved smoothly. The last budget passed even without a meeting between the full town board and the fire department, Tiner said. It’s all about “applying management techniques to the budgetary process,” Tiner said. – In other words, making a not-for-profit volunteer fire department into an efficient business. Tiner’s leadership required more than efficient management. He also sought to transition the personal side of his department. He helped mold fire stations into comfortable hangouts, so volunteers wouldn’t mind their time at the station. Tiner pushed for clambakes and Christmas parties to give volunteers more opportunities to bring family life and firefighting together. Firefighters often find their family time limited because of tiem commitments to the department, he said. Tiner, 42, doesn’t know what attracted him to firefighting. Unlike most fire chiefs, he didn’t have relatives in the fire service with footsteps to follow in. “I have no idea,” he said. “But once I got into it, I knew I would be doing it for life.” His day job is a fire instructor for the New York Power Authority. And he’s a state certified fire instructor who teaches aspiring volunteers around the county.

 

 

 

Firefighting is Tiner’s life. Firefighting, he said, and his family. “Andrew pretty much grew up in the firehouse,” Tiner said. Andrew is 5 ½ . Tiner and his wife, Paula, and their children, Andrew and Jessica, 2 ½, live in the Abbott’s Landing neighborhood in Lysander – in the Belgium Cold Springs Fire District adjacent to Moyers Corners. He moved out of the town of Clay a few years ago. Moyers Corners allows its firefighters to live in a neighboring fire district, but no farther. Tiner has been with Moyers Corners for 20 years, including 12 as a chief, deputy chief or battalion chief. Beginning Friday, he’ll become a rank-and-file volunteer, he said. That will allow him to get back into actual firefighting. “When you become chief, you step away from the fire ground,” he said. Now, he’ll be there to offer advice to new chief Turiello.

 

 

 

“They’ve been blessed over the years with really outstanding leadership,” said Onondaga County Fire Coordinator Mike Waters, who knows Tiner, Turiello and the chief Tiner succeeded, Chet Fritz. “When you’ve got a solild core of great people, it’s easy to keep it going,” Waters said. Friday, Tiner will breathe a sigh of relief. But he promises to offer advice any time Turiello asks. But only if asked. “It takes a lot of sill to lead a department that size,” Tiner said. “I was truly honored to lead the members of such a great organization.”

 

 

 

1999
Chief Ron Turiello
 First Deputy Chief: Steve Wisely
Second Deputy Chief Ken Filow
Battalion 1 Chief Mike Zaferakis
Battalion 2 Chief Steve Bressette
Battalion 3 Chief Jeff Wisely
Station 1 Captain Rich Bittel
Station 2 Captains Jim Wisnowski, Steve Race 
Station 3 Captains  Ed Wisnowski, Steve Dembowski
Station 4 Captain Jason Blake
Station 1 Lieutenants: Ron Florczykowski, John Jones

 

Station 2 Lieutenants: Steve Zaferakis, Bob Driscoll, Bob Michelson
Station 3 Lieutenants: EJ Stevens, John Waldon, Jon Allen 
Station 4 Lieutenants: Frank Crispin, Dave Hubeny

 

Executive Board
 President Gary Johnson
Vice President Chet Fritz 
Secretary Dennis Lyons, Assistant Secretary Bill Siemers 
Treasurer Geoff Maes, Assistant Treasuer Deb Bianco

 

Fire Police:  Captains Tom Delasin, Bob Swahn
 Lieutenants: Ken Brand Sr., Dave Ferguson, Steve Mauser, Dick Kyle, Gary Johnson

 

Bunk Ins: Chad Barnes, Mike Behret, Bill Bliss, Chris Lloyd, Bob Nightengale, Ken Walsh

 

 

 

Auxiliary: President Linda Gobin, Vice President Norma Guinta, Recording Secretary Jean Jones, Corresponding Secretary Clara Dreitlen, Treasurer Sandy Morris, Chaplain Louise Gillespy

 

Scholarship Winner: Gene Young IV

 

 

 

New Apparatus:  E31 1999 Pierce Quantum, E41 Pierce Quantum – became E22 in 2010

 

 

 

Composite Picture

 

 

 

January 1st, 1999

 

New Fire Chief Takes Over in Moyers Corners

 

The Post-Standard

 

The new year brings a change of command in the Moyers Corners Fire Department in Clay. Fire Chief Greg Tiner, who has held that job for five years, retires as chief today. He will stay on as a firefighter. Ronald Turiello, who was deputy chief for five years, will be the new chief.

 

 

 

January 14th, 1999

 

Herald Journal

 

Eight treated at hospitals after fire in Clay plant

 

Eight people were taken to hospitals Wednesday night after a small fire started at the Rollway Bearing plant in Clay. Moyers Corners Fire Chief Ronald Turiello said the fire started around 7:30 p.m. in the filter system of a machine being used to grind bronze. It was put out with a fire extinguisher before firefighters arrived at 7600 Morgan Road. Eight people who inhaled smoke were taken to local hospitals but did not appear seriously hurt, Turiello said.

 

 

 

January 19th, 1999

 

Rotundo Warehouse Collapse before fire

 

Herald Journal

 

Part of warehouse roof falls in Clay ; no one hurt

 

No one was injured when a portion of a warehouse roof at 4662 Dey Road in Clay collapsed around 10.30 p m. Monday, officials said. Moyers Corners Fire Chief Ron Turiello said a 300- by 300-foot section of the roof collapsed, breaking sprinklers and gas lines Workers left the budding, used to store detergent and other products, around 7.30 p m. Town officials were expected to assess the damage today.

 

 

 

February 1st, 1999

 

Post Standard

 

Clay fire damages warehouse

 

By Cammi Clark

 

Suds cascaded into a parking lot, and the scent of fresh laundry filled the air Monday morning in Clay after a fire at a warehouse that stores detergent. Two construction workers who were helping to remove a roof at the Rotundo Repacking warehouse on Dey Road were injured in the fire. A section of the roof had collapsed recently because of ice and snow. Workers Jay Lonkey, 47, of Syracuse and Shann Lazore, 27, of Liverpool, were treated at the scene for smoke inhalation, Clay police Capt. Thomas Bottar said. Lazore was taken to St. Joseph’s Hospital Health Center with a shoulder injury. A hospital spokeswoman said Lazore was treated and released. The fire was reported to Onondaga County 911 center about 9am. The warehouse had been storing thousands of bundled and stacked boxes of Arm & Hammer laundry soap. Construction workers told Clay police they believe a spark from a saw they were using caused the fire, Bottar said. Two weeks ago, portion of the building’s roof measuring several hundread square feet collapsed under ice and snow and landed on the packaged detergent, said Deputy Chief Stephen J. Wisely of the Moyers Corners Fire Department. About 12 construction works from JDS Inc., a division of Northland of Liverpool, were removing the collapsed roof when the fire began, Wisely said. After firefighters arrived, Wisely asked the workers to use their equipment to remove an outside wall to all access to the fire. Fire officials were reluctant to send firefighters inside the building because of the unstable roof, Wisely said. Removing the wall allowed firefighters to battle the blaze more safely, he said.

 

 

 

News Channel 9 Interview with Deputy Chief Steve Wisely: 
“The whole product is in cardboard boxes, wrapped in plastic on pallets. And this is stacked fairly high. So you’ve got a stability problem with the roof on top of it. The sprinkler system would have controlled the fire certainly before our arrival, and the sprinkler would typically knock most of the fire down before the fire department gets there.”

 

 

 

Channel 5 nterview with Ron Turiello:
We are trying to get under it, get the water, wet the products down to at least get the plywood damp so we don’t have another fire. We will be back a little bit later as the clear out more.”

 

 

 

February 18th, 1999

 

Firefighters Appointed For Moyers Corners

 

The Post-Standard

 

Clay Town Board appointed Andrew Balcom, Matthew Clark, Eric Fritz, Ron Hawkins, Christopher Kraus, Christopher Monahan and Ron Proctor as volunteer firefighters on the Moyers Corners Fire Department Inc.

 

April 1st, 1999

 

Officer accused of taking funds

 

Police say former treasurer stole $8500 from Moyers Corners Fire Department

 

Post Standard

 

Julianna Gittler

 

A former fire department treasurer and 911 center dispatcher is accused of taking $8500 from the Moyers Corners Fire Department, Clay police said Saturday. William Siemers, 46, of 4248 Mill Run Road, Clay, was charged Thursday in Clay Town Court with second-degree falsifying business records, a misdemeanor, police said. The charge came through a plea agreement the Onondaga County district attorney’s office set after Siemers agreed to resign from the fire department and from the Onondaga County 911 Center, where he was a fire dispatcher, Assistant District Attorney Paul Berry said. Siemers also was ordered to pay back the money this week, Berry said. The money was discovered missing in mid-1998 by Geoff Maes, who succeeded Siemers as the department treasurer earlyth that year, former Moyers Corners Fire Chief Chet Fritz said. Maes and other fire department officisual ruled out all other possible explanations for the missing money before going to the district attorney’s office a few months later, Fritz said. “We do not tolerate anyone taking what amounts to public monies,” Fritz said. Siemers apparently withdrew money from the department’s general fund periodically over about a year, from late 1996, Fritz said. The money didn’t come from a specific budget area, such as equipment or supplies, he said. Siemers was released on his own recognizance until his next court date, set for April 22, police said. If convicted, Siemers could face up to a year in jail or a $1000 fine. Without the plea agreement, he could have faced third-degree grand larceny and first degree falsifying business records charge – both felonies, Berry said. Those charges carry up to four years in prison, although first time offenders wouldn’t get such a long sentence, he said. Fritz said Siemers had been a department member about a decade. Siemers, reached by phone, would not comment Saturday.

 

 

 

April 5th, 1999

 

Herald Journal

 

Clay police say burlar alarm led them to fire

 

A third early-morning fire was investigated for being suspicious after Clay police responded to a Burglar alarm and found an open window at a physical therapy building, a fire official said Police went to Carey & Daley Physical Therapy, 8390 Oswego Road after the alarm sounded about 4 26 a m Moyers Corners Fire Chief Ronald Tuneilo said. An officer called for help when he saw smoke coming from the one-story building, Tunello said.

 

 

 

May 2nd, 1999

 

Herald Journal

 

Fire department treasurer returns funds; case closed

 

The court case against a former Moyers Corners Fire Department treasurer accused of taking $8.500 from the department was closed Thursday — as long as the man doesn't get into trouble for a year, according to Clay

 

Court. - William Siemers. 46, of Clay was charged with falsifying business records in April. - Town Justice Richard Wittenburg Thursday conditionally discharged Siemers because he has paid back the money. He was fined a S5 court fee.

 

 

 

May 7th, 1999

 

Mock Crash Holds Lessons For Students

 

The Post-Standard

 

A group of 600 seniors stood outside Liverpool High School in Clay Thursday to watch two of their friends feign death. The deaths were make-believe, but the point was real: Don't drink and drive. State police Trooper Kevin Hargrave organized the stop-DWI demonstration using two donated cars and nine student actors. Firefighters from the Moyers Corners Fire Department ripped open the cars to get to the injured, covered in enough fake blood to make the audience squirm. Two officials from the Onondaga County medical examiner's office placed the dead students in body bags. The demonstration kicked off the school's Senior Daze, a series of events for seniors offered at the end of school. This year was the third time the school has conducted the event.

 

 

 

May 13, 1999

 

Syracuse Newspapers

 

Juliana Gittler
Firefighters ready for a blue light special

 

At the first report of a fire, volunteer firefighters drop what they're doing, place a blue light info their car dashboards and race to face the blaze. To honor volunteers and attract recruits, the Onondaga County Ladies' Auxiliary each year hosts Blue Light Night in May. "It lets everyone know what the firemen do," said Linda Gobin, the county auxiliary president Blue Light Night is a fun-filled and educational soiree that brings the community closer to the world of firefighting. It's also a time when people served by volunteer firefighters can honor them by placing a blue bulb in their front outside light. This year, the celebration will be at the Moyers Corners Fire Department, where Gobin is local ladies' auxiliary president The event starts at 7 p.m. Friday at Moyers Comers Station 1, at Routes 57 and 31 in Clay. Anyone is welcome to visit the station for an open house and celebration. For the event, the fire department will hold demonstrations, the Onondaga County Sheriff s Department helicopter will be on hand, McGruff the Crime Dog will visit and, of course, information about fire safety will be available. "We really want to make it a family night," Gobin said, "to educate the children." Parents can have their children fingerprinted — recommended to identify them if they are lost — and children can play fire-prevention games. "They come out of it having learned something,'' Gobin said. If nothing else, they can meet Blinky, a costumed blue light, who will be there to greet people. Blue Light Night is a local tradition started a decade ago by former Liverpool firefighter Mary Gelling Menitt Gov. Mario Cuomo that year deemed May 20 Blue Light Night The event has continued locally and in many communities throughout the state. Each year, a local auxiliary president takes over as president of the county auxiliary an brings Blue Light Night to her fire department Last year is was in Manhus. Next year will be in Bridgeport, Gobin said. "It's to promote volunteerism to promote volunteer firefighting," Gobin said. The occasion this year also commemorates the county ladies auxiliary's 60th anniversary. The Moyers Corners auxiliary is picking up the tab for the event and will seek recruits themselves. They will provide snacks. Gobin said. Blue Light Night is set up to kick off the month of May tohonor firemen and to get additional volunteers," Gobin said "It helps get the word out that all departments need help." She added.

 

 

 

May 27th, 1999

 

MCFD Member Receive Lifesaving Awards at Cermony held at Clay Firehouse

 

Each member helped save a life and was recommended by someonein the medical community. Each was approved by County Executive Nicholas Pirro, county Health CommissionerLloyd Novick and county Emergency Medical Service Bureau Director Anthony DiGregorio.

 

Mike Alexander, Mike Behrett, William Bliss, Glenn Follettt, Randy Goodale, David Hubeny, John Kennedy, Mike Kenyon, Steve Schweitzer, Mike Zaferakis

 

 

 

May 28th, 1999
Memorial Day parade, pictures

 

 

 

June 4th, 1999

 

Herald Journal, Cammi Clark

 

Crash, house fire keep emergency workers busy

 

Moyers Corners firefighters had their sleep interrupted inthe wee hours as they werecalled to a car accident and a house fire within 40 minutes of each other Emergency crew members from the Moyers Corners Fire Department and Onondaga County Sheriffs deputies were sent to an auto accident at Gaskin Road and Harrow Court about 12:30 a.m. today, authorities said. A 1986 Ford sedan with five people was traveling east on Gaskin Road when it veered sideways off the south side of the road and hit a tree, according to deputies. The driver of the vehicle, Shane M. David, 20, 6505 Barling Circle, Liverpool was treated at the Hospital and released, a hospital spokeswoman said. David was ticketed on a charge of not wearing a seat belt, deputies said. A passenger, Danielle Labosette, 18, was treated at University Hospital and released, a spokeswoman said..Deputies said the three other passengers were injured, but it was unclear today where they were treated. Deputies said the passengers were Audrey Pionckowski, 16, Rhiannon Rinaudo, 15, and Carmen Neri, 17. The sheriff’s department was unable to provide their addresses. The injured were taken for treatment by Rural Metro, Greater Baldwinsville Ambulance Corps and Moyers Corners ambulance service, according to Moyers Corners Fire Chief Ron Turiello. The fire department had just finished freeing one of the teens from the crumpled vehicle when a second call came in about 1:10 am., Turiello said. Firefighters headed straight from the accident scene to a house fire at 8825 Oswego Road. A fire that began in a bedroom destroyed the room and caused smoke damage throughout the one-level, ranch-style house, he said. Turiello said the fire was started by accident when a cigarette ignited a box of clothing near a bed. The home's owner was sleeping, but awoke after the fire began, Turiello said. The owner tried to put out the fire himself, but when he was unable to do so, he ran to a neighbor to call for help, Turiello said. The owner was not injured, Turiello said.

 

 

 

June 5th, 1999

 

Crash, House Fire Keep Emergency Workers Busy
Herald-Journal

 

By Cammi Clark

 

Moyers Corners firefighters had their sleep interrupted in the wee hours as they were called to a car accident and a house fire within 40 minutes of each other. Emergency crew members from the Moyers Corners Fire Department and Onondaga County Sheriff's deputies were sent to an auto accident at Gaskin Road and Harrow Court about 12:30 a.m. today, authorities said. A 1986 Ford sedan with five people was traveling east on Gaskin Road when it veered sideways off the south side of the road and hit a tree, according to deputies. The driver of the vehicle, Shane M. David, 20, 6505 Earling Circle, Liverpool was treated at Community-General Hospital and released, a hospital spokeswoman said. David was ticketed on a charge of not wearing a seat belt, deputies said. A passenger, Danielle Labosette, 18, was treated at University Hospital and released, a spokeswoman said. Deputies said the three other passengers were injured, but it was unclear today where they were treated. Deputies said the passengers were Audrey Pionckowski, 16, Rhiannon Rinaudo, 15, and Carmen Neri, 17. The sheriff's department was unable to provide their addresses. The injured were taken for treatment by Rural Metro, Greater Baldwinsville Ambulance Corps and Moyers Corners ambulance service, according to Moyers Corners Fire Chief Ron Turiello. The fire department had just finished freeing one of the teens from the crumpled vehicle when a second call came in about 1:10 a.m., Turiello said. Firefighters headed straight from the accident scene to a house fire at 8825 Oswego Road. A fire that began in a bedroom destroyed the room and caused smoke damage throughout the one-level, ranch-style house, he said. Turiello said the fire was started by accident when a cigarette ignited a box of clothing near a bed. The home's owner was sleeping, but awoke after the fire began, Turiello said. The owner tried to put out the fire himself, but when he was unable to do so, he ran to a neighbor to call for help, Turiello said. The owner was not injured, Turiello said.

 

 

 

July 22, 1999

 

Syracuse Newspapers

 

Juliana Gittler

 

Ready, Aim, fire! Firefighters want others to know how to use extinguishers

 

As a small flame grew in the parking lot beside the Birchwood Health Care Center in Clay, eager employees stood ready, fire extinguishers poised. After a lesson and introduction to the finer details about fire extinguishers — the three types, how they work and when should they be used — employees used the extinguishers to blow out a small fuel fire set by Moyers Corners Fire Lt E J Stevens "It was a pretty good deal," said Stephen Wisely, a deputy chief for Moyers Corners. "It  gave the employees some viable experience and n helped the fire department get out to the community." About 100 employees attended one of four sessions conducted by firefighters, allowing them to try out a fire extinguisher on a real fire. "You've got to understand how far you can reach and how these things work," Wisely said "When there's fire coming from the waste basket, it's a little late to learn the self study guide "And as the adage goes, practice does make perfect — or at least familiar. "A lot of people have inhibitions about using fire extinguishers." said Tara Corcoran, director of administrative services "Most people have never used (one) " The folks at Birchwood, 4800 Bear Road came up with the idea for a hands-on lesson at a Birchwood public safety meeting a few months ago A call to Moyers Corners station No 3 around the corner arranged the session Since fire extinguishers should be used only, for small fires, firefighters used a fairly small container to set the fire It was about 1 6 square-feet, Wisely said Employees learned extinguishers can be filled with water carbon dioxide or a chemical foam-like powder. They come in different sizes and capacities for different fires. Birchwood had to supply the extinguishers for the exercises and have them refilled between the four sessions Other than that, they just had to show up and bravely try out the extinguishers The fire department has a long-standing relationship with Birchwood The department helps conduct fire drills there and a few years ago. The department held a similar extinguisher exercise with great success Wisely said.

 

 

 

July 31st, 1999

 

Church, Other Sites Hit By Fire Attacks

 

The Post-Standard

 

By Peter Ortiz

 

Police and Onondaga County fire investigators are looking to see if the same person used Molotov cocktails to ignite three fires Friday morning in the Morgan Road area, including one at a church set on fire in June. The first sign of trouble came about 4 a.m., when the Moyers Corners Fire Department was called to the Anglican Church of the Virgin Mary, 7831 Morgan Road, Fire Chief Ronald Turiello said. About the same time, Liverpool firefighters responded to a fire in the yard of a house for sale at 7189 Oswego Road, Turiello said. About 8:30 a.m., a call came in for a fire at a barn at 8037 Morgan Road, he said. All of the fires were minor. "The only thing that saved the church was the Plexiglas window," Turiello said. Molotov cocktails are generally bottles filled with fuel and with a lighted wick. It looked as though someone threw such a cocktail, fashioned from a Snapple bottle, at the church window, leaving burn marks, Turiello said. The bottle was found near burning grass when firefighters arrived. Burn marks were found in the back of the same church June 19, but no bottle was found, Turiello said. Clay police are investigating the church and barn fires, he said.

 

 

 

 

 

August 12th, 1999

 

Clay teen-ager wins scholarship from auxiliary

 

The Post-Standard
The Moyers Corners Fire Department and ladies auxiliary this month awarded a $1,000 college scholarship to a Clay teen. Eugene Brently Young IV of Liffey Lane graduated from Liverpool High School in June and plans to attend State University of New York at Albany this fall. The fire department and auxiliary together award the scholarship based on the recipient's character, community participation, need, academics and affiliation with the fire department or auxiliary.

 

 

 

September 2nd, 1999

 

Tiner wins award for fire instructors

 

Post Standard

 

The state Association of Fire Chiefs recently awarded former Moyers Corners Fire Chief Greg Tiner the Chief Fred W. Singer Fire Instructor of the Year award. The award is named in honor of Singer, a longtime fire instructor from Vestal. Tiner teaches fire safety in Onondaga County and at the Niagara Mohawk Power Corp. fire training school. He led Moyers Corners in Clay for five years until his retirement this year

 

 

 

September 30th, 1999

 

Bunking In at Moyers Corners
Post-Standard
By  Missy Matasic

 

Ten college students living at the Moyers Corner Volunteer Fire Department mean quicker response time and additional man-power to residents who need their firefighting skills.  "We're committed to this fire department 110 percent because we love what we do," said Mike Behret, who has been involved in Moyers Corners volunteer fire department's bunk-in program for a year. The fire department has a program in which Onondaga Community College fire protection technology students offer their firefighting skills in exchange for free from and board.  Moyers Corners started its bunk-in program in 1996. South Onondaga, North Syracuse and Taunton volunteer fire departments also have similar programs. Clay, Liverpool and Baldwinsville departments are setting up bunk-in programs this fall. The students, who currently range in age from 18 to 22, are required to work 20 hours a week. They are scheduled four-hour shifts during the day which helps the department immensely.  It works out for the students since most of their classes are in (he evening and my class conflicts are resolved with alternative working hours.

 

 

 

The bunk-ins help with anything from structure fires and motor vehicle accidents to a person choking or an elderly resident who falls out of bed and needs help Behret said he remembers the first fire he ever drove to and had to ' 'pump the fire hydrant." With 1,600 to 2,000 calls a year, the station could use their help, said Bradley Patkochis, who is the station coordinator for the Moyers Corners bunk-in program. “We are not depending on the bunk-ins to run the fire department, but it doesn’t hurt to have extra firefighters around,“  Patkochis said. Currently the department has 110 regular volunteers. While the community benefits from having capable firefighters available, the students want the experiences. "It gives students an opportunity for hands-on experience in a career they want to pursue,''  Behret said. "Every day is different. It holds new challenges and expectations.” While living in the firehouse, the bunk-ins are not typical OCC students. They awake each night to answer alarm calls, Behret said. "The only time the bunk-ins don't answer alarm calls is when they leave the firehouse and choose not to take their gear.” Besides being a firefighter who is available to help, the bunk-ins work a regular four hour shift, five days a week.

 

 

 

October 5th, 1999
Henry Clay drill house burn down, pictures

 

 

 

October 28th, 1999

 

Candy Check at Station 4
The Moyers Corners Fire Department will hold a Halloween-night Open House Sunday at Fire Station 4 on Route 57 across from Seneca Mall. Doors will be open from 5:30 to 9 p.m. to provide a safe environment for children. Cider, doughnuts and candy will be served. Tours of the station will be available, and Clay police will check trick-or-treaters' candy for safety. For more information, call 652-7733

 

 

 

November 4th, 1999

 

Syracuse Newspapers
Not So Scary Night

 

Cammi Clark

 

More than 400 little ghosts, goblins and witches made appearances on Halloween at the Moyers Corners Fire Department Station Four for a candy check and tour of the fire department. Police and fire departments say the candy checks they sponsored an increase patrols on Sunday night led to treats outweighing tricks on Halloween in the northern suburbs. Local fire departments and police agencies were out in full force, patrolling the neighborhoods to preven dangerous pranks.

 

 

 

November 4th, 1999

 

Syracuse Newspapers
Jerry Rosen

 

Moyers Corners firefighters ask for extra money in contract the Moyers Comers Fire Department has asked the Clay Town Board for an 11.11 percent increase in the town's contribution to its operating budget. Town officials want to know why. The town board held a series of hearings Nov. 4 on preliminary spending plans for the coming year, including the town's fire budgets. Under existing contracts, Brewerton would get no increase and Caughdenoy would get 3 percent North Syracuse also is under a contract but is seeking an additional 1 percent over the 3 percent boost already expected. But Clay and Moyers Corners are seeking annual budget increases. Clay has requested a 3.083 percent hike. Supervisor Patrick DiDomenico said he was surprised by the size of the request, particularly in light of the request he made after including $80,000 in the town's spending plan to cover the construction of a fire-training tower. He said his only request was that the departments getting the tower benefit use a "sharp pencil" in determining their 2000 budget requests. "I was surprised by the (Moyers Corners) request," DiDomenico said. "We'll give all three (departments) the opportunity to impress on us their needs. In the past, we've been able to adjust them cooperatively." The town paid Moyers Corners $976,000 in 1998, $976,500 in 1999 and the department is seeking $1.085 million for 2000. The town board approved two deals that would provide different services to two sections of the town.

 

 

 

November 18th, 1999

 

Rescue Truck Plundered at Moyers Corners

 

Post-Standard

 

Medical supplies and a heat gun in a plastic case were taken from a Moyers Corners Fire Department Rescue Truck on Oct. 20. The truck was parked in the garage bay at the station at 8044 Oswego Road, Liverpool. On Oct. 26, someone stole a Moyers Corners Fire Department jacket that was in a locker at the fire hall, 7200 Henry Clay Blvd., Clay.

 

 

 

November 18th, 1999

 

Department Waters Down Its Request, Moyers Corners’ Increase Drops from 11.11 to 2.2 Percent in Two Weeks

 

Post-Standard

 

By Jerry Rosen
Two weeks ago, when the Clay Town Board saw Moyers Corners Fire Department 's budget request for an 11.11 percent increase, it stunned the councilors. Monday night, the depart ment stunned them again when its revised request came in at 2.2 percent. That's an 8.91 percentage point swing and left only one question: Why didn't the department ask for that in first place? It didn't because "we needed certain things for the stations and the departments," said Gary Johnson, president of Moyers Corners Fire Department Inc. And, new Chief Ron Turiello added, "The town's been very good to us, but we felt that these were our expenses." The department's original request contrasted with 3 to 4 percent increases the Clay and North Syracuse departments were requesting. The two remaining departments serving the town were in the third year of three-year contracts. Brewerton was getting no increase, while Caughdenoy was due for a 3 percent hike, said Clay Supervisor Patrick DiDomenico. Councilors James Rowley and Clarence Rycraft hammered out the new Moyers Corners deal Sunday night during a meeting with department officials. But Rowley admitted he feared that the original budget request signaled a return to the adversarial relationship that once existed between the town and its largest fire department. "I was worried," said Rowley, the board's liaison with the five fire departments serving the town. "I said, "Here we go again.' We've got a new chief and I thought they were presenting a pie-in-the-sky budget." He said Sunday's meeting, the second within three days, was amicable and fruitful. But Johnson said the meeting went so smoothly because the department cut back far more than he thought it should have. "We did a little more soothing than (we) should have," he said, adding that the $1 million mark appeared to be a barrier for the town. The original request would have cost the town $1.85 million. The reduced figure comes in at $998,240.

 

 

 

2000
Chief Ron Turiello
 First Deputy Chief: John Perkins
Second Deputy Chief Greg Tiner
Battalion 1 Chief Mike Zaferakis
Battalion 2 Chief Steve Bressette
Battalion 3 Chief Ed Wisnowski
Station 1 Captain Ben Hall
Station 2 Captains Jim Wisnowski, Steve Race 
Station 3 Captains  EJ Stevens, Steve Dembowski
Station 4 Captain Frank Crispin
Station 1 Lieutenants: Jim Zampini, Ron Florczykowski, John Jones
Station 2 Lieutenants: Steve Zaferakis, Bob Driscoll, Mike Wick
Station 3 Lieutenants: Tim Chura, Mitch Goldberg, Dennis Lyons, Gary Johnson
Station 4 Lieutenants: Dennis Corsaro, John Kennedy

 

Executive Board
 President Bob Michelson
Vice President John Bianco 
Secretary Brad Patkochis, Assistant Secretary Ray Carney 
Treasurer Deb Bianco, Assistant Treasuer Chuck Smith

 

Fire Police:  Captains Bob Swahn, Tom Delasin
 Lieutenants: Ken Brand Sr., Dave Ferguson, Steve Mauser, Dick Kyle

 

Bunk Ins: Bob Nightengale, Anthony Rivelli, Matt Rovelli, Adam Croman, Ryan Norman, Mike Behret, Ken Walsh, Greg Lalosh, picture

 

 

 

Auxiliary: President Norma Guinta, Vice President Brenda Kennedy, Recording Secretary Jean Jones, Corresponding Secretary Clara Dreitlen, Treasurer Natalie Hunter, Chaplain Lorraine Sahm 

Scholarship Winners: Jimi Wisnowski, Sharon Duerr

 

 

 

February 11, 2000

 

Moyers Corners garage fire under investigation

 

Herald Journal

 

Moyers Corners Fire Department responded Thursday to a garage fire in Clay. No one was home when firefighters arrived at 3 Tree Line Drive shortly after 2 p.m., Moyers Corners firefighters reported. The fire is under investigation by the Onondaga County Fire Investigation Unit.

 

 

 

February 17th, 2000

 

A New Image For Firefighting

 

The Post-Standard

 

By Paige Akin

 

The Baldwinsville Volunteer Fire Department hopes to soon fight fire with photography. Fund-raising is under way to purchase a thermal imaging camera for the department. The camera, which costs about $20,000, uses heat to detect fire victims trapped in smoke-filled buildings. It can also find pockets of heat in walls and floors, allowing for more precise search-and-rescue capabilities. Heat sources appear as colored areas on the camera screen. Neighboring fire departments have been equipped with the video camera-sized device for several years. Baldwinsville waited several years to begin fund-raising for the camera because of high costs and different financial priorities, according to Deputy Fire Chief Courtney Rutherford. "It's something we've had on our minds, but you have to prioritize what you spend your money on," Rutherford said. 

Each year, the department's 98 volunteers select one major fund-raising project. Last year, Baldwinsville raised $6,000 to buy a fire prevention education tool called "Patches" - a remote control fire truck with a talking dog - that was matched by $1,500 from the village's Federal Emergency Management Authority money. The year before, Baldwinsville volunteers bought water rescue boats and a dive trailer. The department has borrowed thermal cameras from some of the seven fire districts it touches. Moyers Corners has had a thermal camera longer than any department in the county, and East Syracuse has used its device for more than 10 years. The Fayetteville and DeWitt fire departments raised money several years ago for the device, and Wal-Mart donated a $23,000 camera to the Syracuse fire department in January. The time has come for Baldwinsville to buy its own, said Rutherford, who has witnessed seven fire-related fatalities during his 22 years with the department. "If we can save only one life, it's worth it," he said. "I'd rather have a piece of equipment like an insurance company that I never have to use than not have it when I need it." 

The Moyers Corners Fire Department has never used its thermal camera - purchased in 1998 with budgeted funds - to locate a victim, Deputy Chief John Perkins said. Still, the device has been well worth its $20,000-plus price tag, he said, adding that the Baldwinsville department may be a bit behind the times. "It's just one of the things you need to have," Perkins said. "When it comes to search-and-rescue missions, time is of the essence, and every little bit helps." Anthony DiGregorio, director of Onondaga County EMS, debriefs firefighters after harrowing rescues and hard-to-beat fires. The thermal imaging camera may assist in locating heat from fires and victims, but it probably won't reduce the inherent stress of firefighting, he said. "You still have to find the body, you still have to take the body out," he said. The thermal camera will instill even more confidence in his volunteers, Rutherford said. If it saves lives in the process, that's the icing on the cake, he said. "How can you put a dollar sign on someone's life?" he asked. Rep. Robert Franks, R-N.J., introduced a federal bill in May that would make available $100 million this year for fire departments to purchase thermal-imaging cameras. The funds would be distributed on a competitive basis. The act has been referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.

 

 

 

June 17th, 2000

 

Humidity hampers firefighters

 

Peter Chen

 

Herald Journal

 

Firefighters from two counties battled flames and humid weather at a Granby house fire Friday. The fire at 369 County Route 48 started about 10:53 a.m., a dispatcher with the county Emergency 911 Center said. The single-story, single-family home with a two-story addition in the back is just south of Millard Bassett Road. The house is owned by Sally Maxfield, who lived there with three people, said Cody Volunteer Fire Department Chief David Donhauser. He did not know the names of the other residents. Red Cross officials assisted the residents, who are staying with a relative, he said. When firefighters arrived on the scene, they searched all the rooms to be sure no one was inside, Donhauser said. Four teen-agers who were in the house when the fire started all were accounted for later. Oswego County X ire Coordinator John Hinds said. The fire started near the back of the house, possibly in a storage room in the addition, Donhauser said. The chief said he did not know what started the fire. Firefighters were hampered by false walls and false roofs in the addition, which allowed the fire to burn between them, he said. The flames burned a large hole in the roof of the addition. The fire chief said the humidity of 51 percent sapped firefighters' energy quickly, so he needed more people. Donhauser estimated 65 firefighters worked at the scene. The fire was contained to the addition, which was destroyed. Donhauser said. The main house suffered some water, smoke and heat damage but can be lived in again, he said. A Baldwinsville firefighter suffered a minor burn, Donhauser said. Firefighters from Cody, Volney, Hannibal. Lysander, Granby, Phoenix, Baldwinsville, Caughdenoy and Moyers Corners responded.

 

 

 

Mcfd.org picture

 

 

 

June 17th, 2000
Fire prevention at YMCA, pictures

 

 

 

June 17th, 2000

 

Signal 98 House, pictures

 

 

 

June 24th, 2000
Horseshoe Island Burndown, pictures

 

 

 

August 17th, 2000

 

Ambulance Move on Hold Plan For Ambulance Corps Shows Little Sign Of Life

 

The Post-Standard
By Jerry Rosen
The Moyers Corners Fire Department and Ambulance service family broke up five years ago, but the fire department is having a hard time getting the ambulance corps to move out of their shared home on Morgan Road.  For the second month in a row, the ambulance corps' request to build a metal building on land it will get from the fire department on Buckley Road, between John Glenn Boulevard and Morgan Road, got pushed back. The corps was asking the Clay Planning Board to approve a site layout for the property. However, the land it wants still hasn't been separated from the fire department property. The corps also doesn't have a special permit that would allow use of the future building as a community center within a residential zone. The zoning board of appeals would have to issue the permit. During a nine-item agenda Aug. 9 that took more than 3 1/2 hours to go through, the planning board acted on only two items and moved the rest to its Sept. 13 meeting. 
It approved the site plan for Up State Credit Union at the northeast corner of Route 57 and Laurel Lane, despite concerns of nearby residents; and it supported a zone change for MDM Development to build a 72-unit senior citizen residence on five acres at 4845 W. Taft Road, next to the Birchwood senior care facility. The town board has the final say on the MDM zone-change request. The ambulance building drew some close questioning from board members and residents of the adjoining Bayberry Community. Acting planning board Chairman Walter Lepkowski said the site was not ideal and tried to get corps president Russ Ziskind to consider other sites around the fire department building. But both he and fire department President Robert Michaelson said that couldn't happen. Ziskind said there wasn't enough room elsewhere on the site, while Michaelson said his membership would not allow the ambulance corps to build elsewhere on the site. Ziskind pushed the board to approve the site plan contingent on obtaining the permit and subdivision because, he said, the ambulance corps is in the fire department building on a month-to-month lease. He said the departments voted the split five years ago and the ambulance corps was given two years to move out. Other projects failed, leading to extensions of the lease. Meanwhile, he explained, it was fruitless for the board to try to get the two departments to reconcile. "We divorced five years ago and now you want us to go to marriage counselors?" he said. "We've been to marriage counselors." 

Route 31 

Besides the ambulance building, the board also postponed decisions on two properties on Route 31, near Soule Road.

 

 

 

August 29th, 2000

 

Engine 21 Stands-by in Solvay, catches call at plaza

 

 

 

September 15th, 2000

 

Herald Journal

 

Moyers Corners Ambulance changes its name today to Northern Onondaga Volunteer Ambulance.

 

Still stationed at Moyers Corners Fire Department's Station 2, NOVA will break ground this fall on a new facility at Buckley Road and John Glenn Boulevard

 

 

 

September 28th, 2000

 

Post Standard

 

Two pupils from Soule Road Middle School were honored recently for their second-place entry in Moyers Corners Ambulance's new logo contest. Susan Baines (left) and Ashley Richardson were given certificates thanking them for their efforts. Dave Hubeny, a volunteer with the Moyers Corners Fire Department, won the contest. The contest was created when the service changed its name to Northern Onondaga Volunteer Ambulance. The name officially changed this month.

 

 

 

October 3rd, 2000

 

Engine 12 extinguishers vehicle fire at GNM, pictures

 

 

 

October 15th, 2000

 

Fire Prevention at Morgan Rd Elementary, pictures

 

 

 

October 16th, 2000

 

Fire Prevention at Learning Universe, pictures

 

 

 

December 30th, 2000

 

Herald Journal

 

Jerry Rosen

 

Fire slightly damages two businesses in plaza

 

Combustibles stored next to a water heater started a fire in a utility room of Christos Restaurant in Bayberry Plaza shortly before 1 p m Friday, fire officials said. While the fire damaged Christos, smoke and water damaged a vacant store to its north, and the Carlson Wagonlit Travel store to its south. Moyers Corners Deputy Fire Chief John Perkins said the major restaurant damage was confined to the utility room and he didn't expect the restaurant to be closed very long However, the call came In as a structure fire and Perkins remembered the fire in the plaza eight years ago, almost to the day, that gutted the former Tri- R Drugstore — now a Kinney Drug — and the adjoining barber shop It took several months of major renovations before those stores could reopen. More than 40 firefighters from Moyers Corners and Liverpool responded to the fire call, while crews from Belgium, Mattydale, Baldwinsville and Phoenix took up temporary residence at Moyers Corners stations in case other local calls came in The fire was put out in a matter of minutes, but checking to make certain the fire had not spread into the roof took longer, Perkins said. Restaurant owner Christos Voulisios said he and his employees smelled the smoke for a while before discovering the fire "We smelled the smoke, but we couldn't find where it was coming from," he said. "We found it in the room in the middle of the building "It started in the water heater, but I don't know how it started," he said. Julie Teachout, owner of the travel agency, said smoke and" water got around or under the wall she shares with Christos and damaged a kitchen area in the rear.

 

 

 

2001
Chief John Perkins
 First Deputy Chief: Steve Bressette
Second Deputy Chief Greg Tiner
Battalion 1 Chief Mike Zaferakis
Battalion 2 Chief Jim Wisnowski
Battalion 3 Chief Ed Wisnowski
Station 1 Captain Ben Hall
Station 2 Captains Bob Driscoll, Steve Zaferakis 
Station 3 Captains  Jeff Wisely, Mitch Goldberg 
Station 4 Captain Colin Bailey
Station 1 Lieutenants: John Jones, Matt Wisnowski, Eric Fritz
Station 2 Lieutenants: Brad Patkochis, Mike Brown, Chad Barnes 
Station 3 Lieutenants: Ron Jennings, Chuck Smith, John Waldon
Station 4 Lieutenants: Frank Crispin, Dennis Corsaro 

 

Executive Board
 President Gary Johnson
Vice President Ray Carney 
Secretary John Bianco, Assistant Secretary Greg Shaffer 
Treasurer Deb Bianco, Assistant Treasuer Bob Michelson

 

Fire Police:  Captains Bob Swahn, Tom Delasin
 Lieutenants: Ken Brand Sr., Dave Ferguson, Steve Mauser, Gary Johnson

 

Bunk Ins: Scott Gill, Ryan Norman, Sgt. Adam Croman, J.R. Pearsall, Charlie Avondet, Matt Rovelli

 

 

 

Auxiliary: President Norma Guinta, Vice President Brenda Kennedy, Recording Secretary Jean Jones, Corresponding Secretary Clara Dreitlen Treasurer Natalie Hunter, Chaplain Lorraine Sahm, Josephine Guinta

 

Scholarship Winner: Bryan Maes

New Apparatus: Rescue 3 Saulsbury, Squad 1 and 2 Ford Expedition. Squad 2 sold to Plainville FD in 2011.

 

 

 

 March 1st, 2001

 

Post Standard

 

DeVona A. Brown

 

Fewer Fires for Firefighters

 

Moyers Corners firefighters are running to fewer fires as years pass. Each year since 1996, more of their calls are emergency medical service calls. And according to statistics, 2000 was no different. Ten percent of the 1,644 calls Moyers Corners firefighters responded to last year were for fires, while 33 percent involved emergency medical service. In 1999, II percent of the department's 1,693 calls were for fires, and 34 percent were for emergency medical services. "It's pretty typical of most fire departments today with all the modern building codes and fire prevention education," Chief John Perkins said, attributing the lower numbers of structure, car and outdoor fire calls to people's knowledge of fire safety. "We're just not getting anywhere near the number of fires that we used to. However, the emergency medical service calls seem to be increasing." From 1996 to 2000, emergency medical service calls jumped 18.9 percent- In 1996, the department responded to 450 emergency medical service calls out of 1,724 total calls. Perkins said the increase in those calls was a result of low staffing at the Northern Onondaga Volunteer Ambulance (NOVA) over the last five years. He said Moyers Corners firefighters respond to potential NOVA calls only when NOVA members ask for assistance or can't make it at the moment. "These 535 calls (for 2000) are on top of 1000 calls that volunteer ambulance corps went to," Perkins said. Firefighters also respond to rescue call, which made up 15 percent of the department's calls, when NOVA can't.  While all calls fit into a category as described by the state, Perkins said it's hard to predict what firefighters might find at the scene of a call.

 

 

 

Service calls could be anything from getting a cat out of a tree to a real emergency. "It could be a life-threatening emergency to general illness," he said. And sometimes calls amount to nothing, falling into the good intent, unintentional or maliciously false categories. An example of good intent calls is a neighbor who thinks he or she sees a fire at 6 a.m, but it turns out to be a window showing a reflection of the sun rising, Perkins said. Unintentional and malicious calls are fire alarms set off accidentally or on purpose when there is no fire. The three types of calls made up 20.4 percent of the department's calls in 2000. "Every day is different," Perkins said, noting that day-to- day trends in calls are rare. "We respond to anywhere from three to five calls a day. Everybody is paged- The tone that comes out from the 911 center activates pagers, radios in the members' homes and an alarm in the fire station." At that point, a portion of the department's 100 volunteers hit the road with the possibility of using one or more of the seven engines, two ladder trucks, two heavy rescuers, one unit to clean up hazardous materials and four EMS units. Perkins, who's been at the department since 1980, said that beyond the long-range decrease in fires, the 2001 statistics mirror those of years past, Any slight changes are fairly normal. "There's always a difference in calls from year to year," he said.

 

 

 

And the very next day…

 

 

 

March 2nd, 2001

 

Herald Journal

 

Fire destroys Clay mobile home Thursday

 

A fire Thursday night destroyed a mobile home at 3809 Brompton Court in Casual Estates mobile home park in Clay, Moyers Corners fire Capt. Ben Hall said. "'I'd say it was a total loss," he said The fire is being investigated

 

by the Onondaga County Sheriff s Department. No one was hurt "The back was well involved and (the fire) went through the roof," fire Chief John Perkins said.

 

 

 

March 3rd 2001

 

Herald Journal

 

Fire leaves Clay residents homeless

 

Zaf, Brown, Croman on 21 at Standby

 

Fire damaged a Clay town house Monday and left its occupants homeless, Moyers Corners Deputy Fire Chief

 

Steve Bressette said. Moyers Corners and Liverpool departments responded to 7 Evergreen Circle around

 

6:30 p.m. and found the occupants outside. Firefighters doused the blaze, which started in an upstairs bedroom. Firefighters did not know the identity of the occupants.

 

 

 

March 13th, 2001

 

Herald Journal

 

Fire leaves Clay residents homeless

 

Fire damaged a Clay town house Monday and left its occupants homeless, Moyers Corners Deputy Fire Chief

 

Steve Bressette said. Moyers Corners and Liverpool to 7 Evergreen Circle around 6:30 p.m. and found the occupants outside. Firefighters doused the blaze, which started in an upstairs beciroom. Firefighters did not know the identity of the occupants.

 

 

 

March 15th, 2001

 

Training to avoid tragedies
Continual practice limits harm from hazardous materials

 

Herald Journal

 

DeVona A. Brown

 

Firefighters in the northern suburbs put down their hoses in exchange for hazardous materials safety suits Saturday. About 35 to 40 volunteer firefighters from throughout the county gathered at Moyers Corners Station 3 on Henry Clay Boulevard for their monthly training as members of the Onondaga County Hazardous Materials Response Team. Fully dressed in encapsulated suits, team members worked to repair leaks in various items during a mock emergency.  Then a real emergency ended the training early .Firefighters trained for about two hours until they had to stop and respond to a call about a chimney fire in Clay. "We had Clay and Moyers Corners" before the call came in, said team member Lt Scott Spier of the Clay Fire Department. "Both packed up and rolled out of here." At the training site, firefighters battled a variety of potential emergencies. "They had all kinds of different setups," Spier said. In addition to a pipe with eight to 10 different leaks, firefighters battled a 55-gallon drum with leaks in it. The leaking substance in this case was water, but firefighters at an emergency scene never know what they are dealing with. "It could be anything from a leaking car to an acid leak,'" said team member Lt John Walden of Moyers Corners Station I. "We go to them all." Team members respond wherever emergencies involve hazardous materials. "They call us anywhere within Onondaga County from (a company) in Baldwinsville to a tanker on (Interstate) 481." Spier «aid referring to Friday's accident when a tanker carrying liquid argon overturned on 1-481. While there was no leak from the tanker, the roadway was closed for 10 hours as workers mo\ed the argon to a separate truck before clearing the area. Argon is used in welding and refrigeration and can cause dizziness and asphyxiation.  More than knowing how to react at a scene, the monthly hazardous materials training sessions also focus on the very basics of being a team member adjusting to the protective suit and the tools of the job. "You just get back in the suit just to get familiar with it," Spier said- "It's different from putting on a mask and going to a fire." For one thing, a firefighter's suit can't be put on correctly without help. Team members cannot don their safety suits without aid. "Ifs more than a one-man operation/' Spier said. "It takes two to three people to put on one suit- And to be perfectly sealed it take five to eight minutes." Another difference. Spier said, is that the suit, though lightweight, is hard to maneuver. "They're very big and bulky, just like the astronaut suits," he said. The Onondaga County Hazardous Materials Response Team sponsors year-round training held once a month at one of fixe host sites at area fire department; across the county: East Syracuse. Minoa. North Syracuse, Clay and Moyers Corners. The team is supported through ihe county office of Emergency Management

 

 

 

April 20th, 2001

 

Herald Journal

 

If you call, we’ll go

 

DeVona A. Brown

 

Yell "Fire!" and more than the departments in your neighborhood might come running. That's by design, as part of several mutual aid agreements across Onondaga County and between individual fire departments throughout the suburbs. "Everybody has agreed that if you call, we'll go," county Fire Coordinator Mike Waters said. "And if somebody doesn't like it, we'll fight about it later." While his office can facilitate countywide agreements, settling mutual aid disputes isn't something he has to deal with, Waters said. For one thing, most departments willingly participate. "Every fire department in the state participates in the mutual aid in one way or another." Moyers Corners Fire Chief John Perkins said. "Whether it's in North Syracuse or Liverpool, Clay or Baldwinsville ... we get started right away to help out." Recently, his department joined a cooperative agreement with Clay and North Syracuse to have an engine cornpany on duty from 7 a m. to 5 p.m. The departments rotate each week to compensate for fewer volunteers during daytimehours. Moyers Corners and Liverpool fire departments often team up on calls. And DeWitt has agreements with Jamesville. Minoa and Fayettevule in which 11 typically sends its ladder trucks for fire calls to buildings with many residents. Dispatchers at the 911 Center are aware of agreements between fire departments and will send whoever is required to go under a specific schedule. In the agreement with the Clay. Moyers Corners and North Syracuse departments, the dispatched call goes out with the pn-duty station name followed by "91." If it's Clay's rotation week, then the call is Clay Engine 91. John Balloni, deputy director of the 911 Center, said officials at the center meet once a week with county fire leaders to find out whether anything has changed. He said the center only notes what individual fire departments decide and doesn't participate in negotiating deals. And there is little difficulty in deciding which stations will do what in a county where unofficial aid agreements throughout the county have existed for 25 years, Waters said- He said deals became official with the creation of the 911 Center. Call-takers had to be aware of which departments to dispatch along with the primary stations. Now that dispatchers at the center know fire departments' arrangements, the plans are put to work on almost every fire call in the county. Firefighters responded from all over the county because of the uncertainty of the injuries in the Amtrak train collision Feb. 5 in Lyncourt. Within 30 seconds, the 911 Center dispatched the closest available medical personnel from Lyncourt, East Syracuse and Mattydale in addition to calling police and fire and ambulance services from throughout the county. Fire and emergency equipment from Fairmount was moved to East Syracuse to cover in case of other emergencies, such as a house fire or illness. The county doesn't require such cooperation between departments, he said, but it does encourage it. ''Mutual aid is looked at as a two-way street." making any exchange of money unnecessary except where the county comes in with its hazardous-material resources. Waters said. The county's support includes coverage of extra medical monitoring and paying for encapsulated suits that could cost between $5,000 and S8.000. Occasionally, departments will venture outside the county to help out as well. On March 23. firefighters from the Baldwinsville, Belgium-Cold Springs and Liverpool departments helped put out a fire in Schroeppel. Oswego County. Waters said that overall, mutual aid agreements are beneficial in that, ideally,  no area in the county would go uncovered in an emergency. But he said residents shouldn't feel as if they have one large department out of the 57 in the county

 

 

 

April 24th, 2001

 

Herald Journal

 

Sterling A. Gray Jr.

 

Woman burned in workplace accident

 

A Van Buren woman was seriously burned Monday afternoon while working at a manufacturing company off Wetzel Road, Clay police said. Patreshia Diabo, 52, of Hoag Road suffered burns when she toppled a container of liquid and it ignited at a workstation at Goguen Industries Inc., police said. The flames resulted in third degree burns on Diabo's hands and first-degree burns on her thighs, said firefighters from the Moyers Corners Fire Department, which was called to the scene. A Northern Onondaga Volunteer Ambulance took Diabo to

 

University Hospital, firefighters said. Diabo was in serious condition Monday night at the hospital, a nursing supervisor said. Diabo was working at the plant at 7856 Goguen Drive about 1 p.m. when she knocked

 

over a bottle of a solution that spilled into a 6-inch-tall soldering machine next to her workstation, said Clay police Officer J.H. Perkins. The soldering machine ignited thechemical, burning Diabo's hands and her workstation, Perkins said. Some of the solution spilled onto her legs and burned them but did not ignite, firefighters said. A co-worker used a fire extinguisher to put out the fire, Perkins said. Goguen Industries sells electronics components. Company officials did not return phone calls Monday. Clay police ruled the incident accidental, Perkins said. The federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration sent an investigator to the scene Monday, said Diane M. Brayden, director of the Syracuse- area OSHA office

 

 

 

May 3rd, 2001

 

Post Standard

 

Melissa Lang

 

Still Riding to the Rescue

 

One of Ron Sorrentino's most vivid memories from his 20 years as a Volunteer firefighter with the Moyers Corners Fire Department in Clay is of the day he saved a life Or, as the humble Liverpool man prefers, the day he "implemented a rescue " In April 1987. he was called to an explosion at an Agway Inc. propane facility. A man stumbled from the burning building, his clothes engulfed in fire He rolled into the nearest puddle, successfully dousing the flames. And then he was still knowing the fire raged on just a few feet from where the man lay, Sorrentino rushed over and removed him from harm's way. But Sorrentino modestly refuses to take all the credit. "My training helped me," he said. Sorrentino, 5O, is no longer a firefighter, but his practical know-how lives on at the Rescue Mission in Syracuse, where he volunteers up to 20 hours a week as the assistant to the safety manager. The Rescue Mission is a nonprofit organization that, in part, provides shelter and help to the city's homeless and needy. Sorrentino moved to Liverpool from Long Klana in 1975 Here, he satisfied a  longstanding dream by volunteering with the Moyers Comers Fire Department

 

 

 

May 1st 2001

 

YMCA Fire Roof  Crew

 

 

 

May 12th, 2001

 

Camper Fire on Route 481

 

 

 

May 13th, 2001

 

Signal 99 at 3400 Maider Road – Mother’s Day
Moyers Corners FD was alerted to a reported fire at 3400 Maider Road in the Station 1 response area.  Deputy Chief’s Steve Bressette and Mike Zaferakis arrived with heavy fire showing and struck a Signal 99. Engine 11 and Engine 41 brought in attack lines and were met with high heat and zero visibility. There was a “double roof” inside of the structure which kept the fire from venting. Captain Zaferakis and Truck 2 went to the roof for vertical ventilation. Upon making the hole, fire immediately vented upward and crews were able to attack the fire. Rescue 4 searched the structure along with ladder 1.

 

 

 

May 24th, 2001
Post Standard

 

DeVona A. Brown
Nova starts work on new station

 

Unwittingly, the Northern Onondaga Volunteer Ambulance service marked Emergency Medical Services Week

 

with a ground breaking for its new building. "It's a nice coincidence," said NOVA treasurer Bndget Ziskind

 

of the ground breaking that occurred Monday. NOVA, currently housed in the Moyers Corners fire stations, began construction on its freestanding facility at John Glenn Boulevard and Buckley Road in Clay. The 5,400 square-foot, one-level structure will be complete by late summer, said NOVA treasurer Bridget Ziskind. "It'll have three vehicle bays. It'll (have) two bunk rooms, a living area with a kitchen and baths, a conference room and training, rooms," she said. The new building will offer more space for NOVA's 40 volunteers and eight paid workers than is available at the four Moyers Comers fire stations. It will also put all of their supplies in one place ' 'Our ambulance is rotated from (Moyers Comers) Station 2 and Station 4, and our supplies are at (Station} 4, Ziskind said. But will the building positively affect NOVA's services? "It better," Ziskind said. "It will be easier for our crews to keep in contact with each other. It'll be easier to have everything in one place." Contractor Irish Millar Construction of Cazenovia is building the facility, and the cost is about $496,000. Ziskind said. "We already have some of the money. We're going to be doing a fund-drive as soon as possible," she said. "Then, we're hoping to hit larger corporations in the area”

 

 

 

June 7th, 2001

 

Bus/car extrication drill at Station 2

 

 

 

June 18th, 2001

 

Town voted to double the losap pension program for firefighters
Also on the Clay ballot will be a request to double the program that provides a pension for retired volunteer firefighters. The change would provide a monthly payment of $20 for each year of active service. The program now provides qualified firefighters in Clay and Moyers Corners fire departments with about $200 a month

 

at age 62. The town is proposing to double that to $400 a month. Money for the program comes

 

out of the town taxes and is included in the contracts with the fire departments.

 

 

 

July 2001

 

Engine 22nd assists on Tanker rollover on Thruway

 

 

 

July 5th, 2001 – engine 91 concept

 

Post Standard

 

Sterling A. Gray Jr.

 

Fire departments share more to meet needs

 

Clay, Moyers Corners and North Syracuse departments are pooling members to provide a quick-response engine, Engine 91, that would be a first-response vehicle lo a fire call and would fight a fire until mutual aid help arrived. July 21st, 2001…1/2 ton monument at Station 1

 

 

 

July 13th, 2001

 

3 – vehicle crash on Route 57 leaves 7 hurt

 

Herald Journal

 

Sue Weibezahl

 

Seven people were treated at city hospitals after two Moyers Corners ambulances crashed in a chain reaction into the back of a passenger car on Route 57 at Wetzel Road in Clay Monday morning, Onondaga County sheriff's deputies said. The driver of the car, Janet R. Dudley, 61, of 6110 Landsend Lane, Clay, and the four crew members of the two ambulances — Gregory A. Reed, 30, and Bruce D. Ingersoll III, 24, and Jonathon A. Gardner, 22, and his partner, David Shalala, 28 — were treated at Crouse Hospital, a hospital spokesperson said. The two passengers in Dudley's car, Arnold Peters, 60, whose address was not available, and Larry Fitzgerald, 61, also of Landsend Lane, were treated at St. Joseph's Hospital Health Center, a spokesperson said. Dudley and her passengers complained of back and neck pain. They were taken to hospitals by the Greater Baldwinsville Ambulance Corps, while both ambulance crews were taken by Rural/Metro ambulances. Onondaga County Sheriff's Deputy John D'Eredita said the two ambulances were following Dudley on Route 57 when she stopped for a yellow light

 

 

 

July 26th, 2001

 

MCI Drill at Birchwood

 

 

 

August 2, 2001

 

Post Standard

 

Sterling A. Gray Jr.

 

Chief Ken Brand is again the center of attention

 

The Moyers Corners Fire Department honored its firefighters and one of its founding members on July 21 with a monument and ceremony The one and-a-half ton granite monument is in the form of a Maltese Cross On the monument is a bronze sculpture of the head of Ken Brand Sr., the department s first chief Brand was chief when the department opened Us doors in 1948 He remained chief until 1971. Firefighters hooked a tarp that covered the monument to an aerial ladder which lilted the tarp and revealed the structure (o Brand for the first time, said the event s organizer Stephen Mauser More than 180 past and current Moyers Comers firefighters were present at the ceremony. I m 84 years old and I've never cried at a funeral," Brand said 'But my eyes clouded nghi up I couldn't believe it". Mauser said he wanted to celebrate Brand's accomplishments while he was sull alive to enjoy the honor I've been thinking about this for four years. ," Mauser said "He's 84 and I didn't know how much longer we would have him " Despite repealed meetings at the fire department and months of planning, Mauser kept the dedication a secret Brand, who lives across me street from the firehouse, says he saw the guys milling around, but never knew what was really going on."I knew the monument was to honor the past at the department but then I saw it and said 'holy cats' there s my picture

 

 

 

August 3rd, 2001

 

Engine 41 extinguishers vehicle fire at Soule/57

 

 

 

August 22nd, 2001

 

Bunk-in Training at NIMO Fire School

 

9/21/2001 Rescue 3 Saulsbury

 

 

 

October 9th, 2001

 

Signal 99

 

www.mcfd.org
911 dispatched a reported structure fire with many calls at 3319 Berkely Court. BC-1 reported smoke visible from Route 57 and upon arrival found a trailer fully involved and transmitted a Signal 99. The fire was impeding on three exposures and the source trailer was reported to be vacant. Engine 41 was first due and initiated an exterior attack. E11 performed a reverse lay from Engine 41 to the nearest hydrant and the crew pulled a second handline. Engine 21 and 22 performed a split lay to establish a secondary water supply. Engine 21’s crew also pulled a handline while Engine 22’s crew stood by. Rescue 4 and Ladder 1 were assigned utilities and overhaul. Rescue 3 was the RIT. Three firefighters suffered bee stings almost simultaneously as there was a large underground hive near the structure. One other firefighter suffered an asthma attack. All firefighters were treated on the scene and released.

 

 

 

October 11th, 2001
Children Boost Morale
The Post-Standard
By Sterling A. Gray Jr. 
The Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Department recently received a morale boost from children at Morgan Road Elementary School. Students in Michelle Middleton's third-grade class sent 22 letters to the fire department calling them heroes and thanking them for protecting the community. In a news release, firefighters thanked the children and said they "... touched our hearts in this time of need. ... In the wake of great sorrow, it is our children who can bring us the most joy." Not only was the department, along with every other fire department in the country, saddened by the loss of 300 New York City firefighters in the Sept. 11 attacks on the World Trade Center, but Moyers Corners firefighters are reeling after one of its bunk-in firefighters was seriously injured in a training accident in Oneida County. Adam Croman , 19, a bunk-in for the past two years at the Moyers Corners fire department while he attended classes at Onondaga Community College in the Fire Protection Science program, was severely burned in a training accident with the Lairdsville Fire Department. He has been recovering at University Hospital after suffering serious burns when a fire raged out of control in an abandoned house near Utica that was used for training by fire departments in the Westmoreland fire district. The fire killed Lairdsville firefighter Bradley Golden , 18, and injured another firefighter from the Lairdsville department, Benjamin Morris , 19.

 

October 15th, 2001

 

Signal 98

 

www.mcfd.org

 

911 dispatched a reported structure fire in the basement of Building A at 4312 Heritage Drive. Smoke alarms were going off. Upon arrival, units found light smoke showing and occupants evacuating the building. Engine 21 crew made an interior attack on a fire in the storage area on the basement level and quickly knocked the fire down. Extensive ventilation was required throughout Building A and B and overhaul of the basement area.

 

November 8th, 2001
Dorm With Alarm; OCC Students Sleep at Local Firehouses
The Post-Standard
By Sterling A. Gray Jr. 
Firehouses around Onondaga County have been turned into make-shift dormitories for some select Onondaga Community College students. Seven departments within Onondaga County are a part of a bunk-in program with OCC. Taunton, South Onondaga, Moyers Corners, Liverpool, North Syracuse, Clay and Baldwinsville all have students from OCC living at their respective firehouses while they are enrolled in the Fire Services Technology program. The Fire Services Technology program is a two-year major at OCC. OCC is the only college in Central New York that offers the bunk-in program. There are no on-campus housing opportunities for students who take classes at OCC. The Student Life department does offer a list of available off-campus housing to students. Having bunk-ins serves the school, community, the students and fire department, said Onondaga County Fire Coordinator Mike Waters. "It's good for the college because it provides students for the program," he said. "It's good for the fire department because it puts people in the fire station who are dedicated kids who have a sincere interest in the fire service. It's good for the students who don't have a lot of money. Their room is provided and they don't have to worry about apartment or dorm fees."

 

At Moyers Corners Fire Department, the students are members of other fire departments and have about 30 hours a week for training, responding to calls and other duties around the firehouse, said Deputy Chief Greg Tiner. They have eight bunk-ins, Tiner said. Bunking in has given Ryan Norman of Inwood more teachers than the average student at OCC. Not only is he learning from professors at the college, but he said he's learning from the experiences of his fellow firefighters and even from some of his bunk-mates. "There isn't anything you can't learn from guys at the firehouse," Norman said. "It's really been helpful." Norman, 21, is also the liaison between the bunk-ins and the department. This is his second year as a bunk-in. He has learned about fighting fires, and Norman said he's learned about respect and discipline. "You have to deal with a lot of different personalities in the fire service," Norman said about respecting others. Getting a degree in the fire protection helps the chances of a firefighter signing on with a career department, Tiner said.

 

The program came to Onondaga County in 1993 when fire officials looked for ways to bolster their forces. Fire officials heard about a bunk-in program that was thriving in Maryland and Ithaca fire departments, Waters said. The Baldwinsville Volunteer Fire Department welcomed its first three bunk-ins at the start of the semester. The bunk-ins have a room set aside for them. Baldwinsville bunk-in residents Richard Simpson, 19, of Katonah, Steuben County, Mark Head, 19, Worcester, Otsego County, and Michael Lamonica, 18, Rockville Center, Nassau, said recently that they enrolled in the program to get a hands-on experience responding to fires. Each bunk-in is required to maintain at least a 2.5 grade point average in their course work.

 

November 11th, 2001

 

MCFD Newsletter

 

Volume 1, Issue 2

 

Recent Events

 

By Scott Burdo

 

Amazing what can happen in a short period of time. In the four months since the last newsletter, the world has changed dramatically. The events of 9/11 will never be forgotten as memorial services subside and the healing begins the job for all firefighters and police officers will be changed forever. As local paid and volunteer fire departments came together in a form of unity and support they raised thousands of dollars for the victims of the terrible tragedy. New York City was not alone in suffering a tragedy as one of Moyers Corners Bunkins was badly burned and young volunteer last his life. Adam Croman suffered second and third degree burns on his hands and other parts of body during a training evolution. I would like to thank all those who submitted articles to this edition of the newsletter. The next newsletter will come in late December or early January. 

 

From the Chief

 

By John Perkins

 

The evenst of September 11, 2001 will never be forgotten. Our nation was attacked and our brothers in the FDNY suffered a tragic loss. Just two short weeks later, and much closer to home, the Lairdsville FD suffered a tragic loss during a training evolution that has struck much closer to home. One of our bunk-ins, Adam Croman, spent 4 weeks in the Clark burn Unit being treated for his injuries, but should be home by the time you read this. He still wishes your visits and good thoughts. Adam sends his thanks to the department for our support and for the training we provided him. On a happier note, all the bunk-ins from last year have returned, and we have added two new faces. Please welcome Justin Gershon and Scott Hamelburg. We will be bringing in another class of new members this fall and preparing for another Central New York winter. We’ve made some progress in many areas. Our department newsletter is in place and you are reading the second quarterly issue. We are in the midst of correcting the shortcomings our computer system has. The SOP’s are in the process fo being distributed to each member. We’ve recognized the charter members of the department along with the departments fire chief Ken Brand Sr. with a fine memorial. Our training program continues with daytime, nighttime, hazmat team, probie, and driver training. We’re updating the apparatus replacement plan. We’re reviewing existing preplans and working towards adding new ones. We’re making fire prevention presentations and have conducted the fire inspections at our schools. We’re addressing various EMS related issues. We’re working with our neighbors on training and joint response. We’ve maintained our good response times, and have reduced the number of times we have scratched or activated the “five minute rule procedures”. How do we do these things? We do it with the participation of all our members, members like you. Each of us needs to do their part as best they can. I thank you all for what you have done and ask that you continue your good works. Our work is not finished. As your Chief, I have laid out my vision of the department for the next five years and have identified goals and objectives to achieve that vision. We have our work cut out for us. Your ideas have been comiled into a mission statement that should guide our efforts. I have borrowed from the Phoenix Fire Department a risk management statement that should help keep us safe as we respond to a variety of calls for service. The department annual election is just around the corner. Please give serious consideration to the people you select to lead our department. They must be leaders and they must be willing to put in the extra time that is required to properly carry out their duties.

 

Fire Prevention

 

By Captain Steve Zaferakis

 

The fire prevention section had yet another successful year. Thank you to everyone that helped in fire prevention for both the young and the old in 2001. There was an awesome department-wide representation for well over twenty details. The thirty plus members of the Moyers Corners Fire Department that participated in fire prevention this year should be commended on their dedication. Thank you once again for your continued support, we’ve touched the hearts and minds of thousands of children in our community. If you would like to be a part of the fire prevention section, just send me an email 

New Computer System
By Randy Frost
Things seem to be going pretty good right now with the “new and improved” computer system at MCFD. Thank you for your patience in this change. There are a few more things we need to do, the biggest is to insure all is operating as expected before we close the books on this upgrade. We recently got the dispatch printer software up and running to print the fire control printouts at Station 4. Also, Red Alert is due for a software update to the existing software as soon as we “bless” this upgrade. We need your help to insure we have a smooth running system. Please try to use the computers throughout the department as often as you can when at any station. Also try to use the email and be sure to check it often. If any problems are observed, or if you have any questions, please send me an email documenting the problem with what you were attempting to do and the unexpected or undesirable results. If we don’t know about a problem, it can’t be fixed..if you have any suggestions for improvement, or functional additions, please sent them to me or any other member of the computer section. We’ll evaluate your request to determine if it’s possible to implement. Please, use discretion and do not tie up the machines for excessive periods of time when others may want to use the computer. 

 

Combined Rook Program, Class 01-2 Fall 2001
by Captain Ben Hall
The second class of the combined rookie class with Clay and North Syracuse actually started before the first and ended in May. The pilot class started in January and encompassed both IFSTA basic and intermediate at the same time. The department leads, Capt. Ellis of North Syracuse, Lieutenant Redhead of Clay, and myself met and determined that trying to teach both basic and intermediate skills in the same class seemed to be overwhelming so we decided to split them. The program now goes through the basic course first, tests out, and then continues on through the intermediate portion. The results are the same. When our probies complete this class not only do they meet and exceed our requirements, the get State certificates for each and they can go down to Montour Falls and challenge the NFPA 1001 test. The biggest advantage to having a combined course with our neighbors is that the whole course is taught under the direction of State Certified Instructors from all three departments, so this is a state sanctioned course. Class 01-2 started on Saturday September 22nd and meets on every Wednesday and some Saturdays. Our members participating in the course are Jeff Bush, Dan Spillet, Dan Ager, Craig Waterman, Jeremy Deitz, jake Burns, and Herb Coxe. By the time the basic portion tests out on Wednesday November 14th, these new members will have invested at least 64 hours into their training. To say the least, these guys are starting to understand what it means to be a firefighter. They have done a great job and I’m sure they will all become an important part of the Moyers Corners team. As we all know, taking a probie course is just the beginning of our learning process. Please take the time to get to know these new members, encourage them, and help them in any way you can to become an important part of the brotherhood of Moyers Corners.

 

 

 

December 17th, 2001
Special night for Station 2’s Monday overnight crew
www.mcfd.org
On the evening of Monday, December 17th, members of Moyers Corners Station #2 hosted a very special guest and her helpers who prepared a wonderful dinner for some of the members of the routine Monday overnight crew. Amy Robbins, popular morning personality of Syracuse-based radio station 93Q and several other staff members had been making their rounds to the 11 Syracuse City Fire Stations preparing dinner for firefighters over the last year. Moyers Corners Lt. Bradley Patkochis sent her an e-mail thanking her for her efforts, and mentioned that the city firefighters were not alone in the commitments to they make to provide EMS and fire protection to their communities. He asked if she would consider preparing a meal as a thank-you to the members who participate in the overnight stand-bys. Amy agreed to come out and prepare a meal for up to 12 members of the department on Monday, Dec 17th.

Dinner and an in-house overnight crew has become a Monday night tradition for Station 2 over the last 17 months. A crew of between four and 11 firefighters has staffed Station 2 every Monday night during the overnight hours since August of 2000, with over 18 different members participating. However, Monday the 17th would be an evening like no other, very memorable for the Monday night crews. The evening started early due to the planned dinner festivities, with Amy and her staff having just prepared a dinner of salad, shrimp scampi, pasta, green bean casserole, cheese & garlic bread, and cake. As they sat down to indulge, they were soon interrupted by the first of what would ultimately turn into six separate alarms, including a working fire at Burdick Pontiac-GMC. They were able to finally finish dinner around 10:00 PM, long after Amy and her staff had left. Nonetheless, the members of the Monday overnight crew cannot thank them enough for their generosity and efforts. As for the Monday night tradition, it will continue now more than ever. In addition, crews are now staffing Thursday overnights since August of 2001, to help diversify the crews, and provide more coverage for the community.

 

 

 

December 17th, 2001
MCFD Hosts 9 calls within a 4 hour time
www.mcfd.org
After returning from the investigation of an automatic fire alarm at 17:11 on Monday 12/17/01 at 4800 Bear Road, the night quickly turned busy for MCFD. At approximately 18:30 hours, as Syracuse area radio station 93Q was putting finishing touches on a home cooked meal for MCFD Station #2's routine Monday overnight crew, dinner was interrupted by the first of what would be 7 more alarms by 21:00.

At 18:23 Engine 41 (Lt. Corsaro) was dispatched for the investigation of a pole fire in the area of 8375 Golden Larch Lane. Within minutes a full box was dispatched for a smoke odor investigation at 8015 Oswego Road - Seneca Mall. Engine 41 re-directed themselves to Seneca Mall and Engine 11 (FF Jones) was sent to Golden Larch lane.

As Engine 11 was clearing the Golden Larch alarm they were dispatched immediately to a medical alarm at 4069 Elaine Circle due to a power outage in the area. En-route to that call they arrived on scene of an auto accident at Spicebush Trail & North Pinegate Parkway, however cleared the scene quickly with no injuries and continued to Elaine Circle. As crews were picking up from 8015 Oswego Road at 19:02, another full box assignment was dispatched to 4182 Chokecherry Way for a burning odor in a residence, bringing crews from Moyers Corners Engine 41, Engine 21, Truck 2, Rescue 4, and C-2. As units were clearing this incident at 19:27, a third full box assignment was dispatched for a reported fire in the body shop at 3593 Route 31 - Burdick Pontiac-GMC. C-3 (Deputy Chief Tiner) was first to arrive and established Command on Side 1 of the building, and reported smoke showing from the front showroom. He also reported a possible electrical fire on side 4 of the building in the area of the paint booth. Truck-2 (Capt. Zaferakis) had the first due and went to the 2-3 corner to setup for roof access, while Engine 41 (Lt. Corsaro) was laying a hydrant line from Route 31 down side 4. As Engine 41's crew was placing an initial 1-3/4" attack line in place through the man-door to the body shop, Truck-2's crew began a primary search of the entire maintenance garage and combined with Rescue 4 (FF E.J. Stevens) to assist in opening the large overhead doors on sides 3 and 4. Ladder 1 (Lt. Fritz) positioned on side 1 for additional access to the roof. Rescue 3 (FF Houde) assisted on Side 1 with operations as well. As Engines 21 (Lt. Patkochis) and 31 (Lt. Waldon) completed the hydrant for Engine 41 down Route 31, Engine 22 (Lt. Brown) was laying an additional supply line through the Truck bays of Station #1 to the rear of the structure, located adjacent to the rear parking lot of Station #1. Engine 21, Engine 31, and Engine 22 crews assisted with additional handlines and also assisted with forcible entry on side 4 and ventilation.

While crews were still working at Burdick Pontiac-GMC, another full box assignment was dispatched at 20:18 to 4035 Winterpark Drive for the odor of gas in the basement. This brought Engines from Belgium Cold Springs, Liverpool, Clay, and MCFD (Engine 31), as well as Clay Truck 3 (Lt. Redhead) and Liverpool Truck 2 (Lt. Ormsby). Liverpool Car 2 (Deputy Chief Muldoon) arrived and established the Winterpark command. 

Moments after clearing this alarm, another box was dispatched for an appliance fire at 7101 Landsend Lane in Casual Estates at 20:47 hours. Clay Truck 3 arrived first due to find the appliance had been removed from the residence and reduced the assignment to "1 and 1". All units were placed available from all alarms at approximately 22:00

 

 

 

December 17th, 2001

 

Fire Hits Dealership

 

The Post-Standard

 

By Dick Clarke

 

A fire that apparently started in a pickup awaiting repairs caused heavy damage Monday night to the body shop at Burdick Pontiac-GMC and Suzuki on Route 31 in Clay, a fire official said. “We got a call that there was an explosion,” Moyers Corners fire Chief John Perkins said. Perkins said initial reports said it was an electrical fire. “but when we got inside, the pickup was well involved,” Perkins said. “The flame got up into the rafters and into the structure.” Burdick was open for business at the time of the fire call, about 7 p.m., but apparently no one was working in the body shop. There were no injuries reported. “It actually took us a few minutes to locate the fire,” Perkins said. “Once we found the source, it took just a few minutes after that to put it out.” As the fire crews rolled up hoses about 9 p.m. , a young man stood at the police barrier. “That’s my truck,” said Steve Guy, pointing to the heavily damaged 1998 Chevrolet Silverado in the first bay of the body shop. Several other vehicles in the body shop appeared to have suffered damage. Guy, from Seneca Falls, attends Onondaga Community College. “I had my first city experience Wednesday when someone vandalized my truck,” he said. “My insurance company had it towed her to be repaired.” As the daylong rain continued, Guy turned to a friend and said, “Want to go look at new trucks?”

 

Website pictures

 

 

 

December 20th, 2001

 

Signal 99 at Burdick

 

Comments from Chief Tiner

 

Just a quick note to say that I was proud of the job done on December 20th, on the Route 31 call. Many of you showed good judgment and come up with ideas to overcome problems. Example: Engine 22 laying from the front of Station 1 through the station to side 3, Engine 21 and their long, very long lay, Truck 2 first due using all their tools even the TIC, Rescue 4 for opening and searching the fire , Engine 31 going to another plug. Did you know we had three water sources and of course Engine 41 for a quick attack and putting the fire out!!! This is just a short list of all the units that added to the safe handling of the incident. As we all know, there were things we could have done better but we must not forget the good along the way.

 

 

 

December 20th, 2001
Ambulance Corps Moves Into Its Own Headquarters
The Post-Standard
By Sterling A. Gray Jr.
On Oct. 27, members of the Northern Onondaga Volunteer Ambulance Service moved into a station of their own on Buckley Road. The move seems to have boosted the morale of members of the group, says NOVA President Russ Ziskind . "It's been very positive," Ziskind said. "We've got people here all the time now."

 

The ambulance service used to be a part of the Moyers Corners Fire Department and had operated out of the fire department's stations. NOVA officially split from the fire department in 1995 because of financial reasons. Ambulance corps that are a part of fire departments can't bill patients for service, limiting them to generate revenue only from fund-raising. A history of tension between the fire department and the ambulance service didn't make matters at the department much better. The building NOVA moved into cost about $500,000 and is next door to the Moyers Corners Station 2 on Buckley Road. But the relationship between NOVA and the fire department has been improving. Some firefighters helped NOVA settle in and set up their antenna and communications system, Ziskind said. The 5,400-square-foot building at 425 Buckley Road in Clay houses the 55 members of NOVA and has three ambulance bays that can hold up to five ambulances. NOVA currently has three ambulances that respond to emergencies throughout the town of Clay.

 

 

 

 

 

December 21st, 2001
Hazardous Materials Workers Receive Honor
The Post-Standard
Onondaga County Executive Nicholas Pirro on Thursday honored seven volunteer members of the county's hazardous materials response team for their hard work during a wave of calls received during the anthrax scare. Team members included deputy fire coordinators Kevin and Stephen Wisely and hazmat representatives Joseph Rinefierd of the Clay Fire Department, Jeffrey Wisely of the Moyers Corners Fire Department, Ernest DeWolf of the North Syracuse Fire Department, Vincent Stevenson of the East Syracuse Fire Department and Court Rutherford of the Carrier Corp. response organization.

 

 

 

 

 

2002
Chief John Perkins
 First Deputy Chief: Steve Bressette
Second Deputy Chief Mike Zaferakis
Battalion 1 Chief Ben Hall
Battalion 2 Chief Jim Wisnowski
Battalion 3 Chief Ed Wisnowski
Station 1 Captain Rich Bittel
Station 2 Captains Steve Zaferakis, Steve Race
Station 3 Captains  Jeff Wisely, Ron Jennings 
Station 4 Captain Frank Crispin
Station 1 Lieutenants: Jason Perkins, Eric Fritz
Station 2 Lieutenants: Brad Patkochis, Chad Barnes, Chip Piraino, Chris Naum

 

Station 3 Lieutenants: Tim Chura, Dennis Lyons, Chuck Smith 
Station 4 Lieutenants: Dennis Corsaro, Jered Zeppetello

 

Executive Board
 President Greg Shaffer
Vice President Gary Johnson 
Secretary Kristy Kennedy, Assistant Secretary Scott Burdo 
Treasurer Deb Bianco, Assistant Treasuer Bob Michelson

 

Fire Police:  Captains Bob Swahn, Tom Delasin
 Lieutenants: Ken Brand Sr., Dave Ferguson, Steve Mauser, Gary Johnson

 

Bunk Ins: Scott Gill, J.R. Pearsall, Charlie Avondet, Justin Gershon, Matt Rovelli, Scott Hailburg, Ryan Norman

 

 

 

Auxiliary: President Norma Guinta, Vice President Brenda Kennedy, Recording Secretary Jean Jones, Treasurer Natalie Hunter, Chaplain Lorraine Sahm, Josephine Guinta

 

Scholarship Winners: Mary Tanguay, Lindsey Kennedy

 

 

 

New Apparatus: Squad 1/2 2002 Ford Expedition

 

 

 

January 2002

 

MCFD Newsletter, Volume 2, Issue 1

 

A New Year

 

By Chief John Perkins

 

The year 2001 will be history as you read this. The year went well with some progress being made in various areas of the department. The new year will present both challenges and opportunities to both officers and members alike. Hopefully  we will continue moving toward realization of our department VISION. We have identified goals and objectives to help us meet our MISSION. But this will take the work and input of all the members. We are a department of many different ideas. Different down not mean wrong. There are many good ways to accomplish our objectives. The key is finding the idea that is in the best interest of the department and not a small group of individuals. Become an active part of the department. Be part of the solution, and not part of the problem. The MCFD has always been a leader. Let’s continue that tradition. I am looking forward to a progressive year with a top notch group of officers and members. Thank you for the valuable time you have given, and the time you will be asked to give in the coming year. May all of you and your families have a great New Year in 2012. 

 

E-Board News

 

By Scott Burdo

 

The executive board has gotten off to a fast start. The committee sheets have come down and chair assignments are underway. Each member of the executive board is responsible for at least one committee and we look forward to working with the committees and help them succeed in their missions. I will chair the newsletter again this year with the assistance of Captain Rich Bittel and look forward to another year of bringing the news of the fire department to the past and present members. The executive board would like to congratulate and welcome the newly elected officers, we look forwar to working assisting you in reaching the department goals in 2002. 

Operations

 

By Deputy Chief Mike Zaferakis

 

Once again, we find ourselves in the midst of transition. The rumors and campaigning have been put to bed for another year, while the new officers and executive board members begin the transition into their new positions. I find myself in a transition again, one that I am extremely excited about. Before I elaborate, I would like to thank the members of Battalion 1 for the opportunity to serve as Battalion Chief for the last three years. There are several words that could describe my experiences in this position, some even good! In all seriousness, when MCFD and the 1st Battalion were called into ation, I was proud to represent them. I know I am leaving the Battalion in good hands with Chief Hall. I will be assisting him to help make his transition as smooth as possible. He also has a good crew underneath him, which will only make his job easier. Secondly, I would like to thank Chief Tiner for his words of wisdom along the way. He has helped me prepare for my new position in many ways, and for that I thank him. 

 

Over the next few weeks, I hope to unveil some of the plans for the Operations Sector. Currently, I have a list of about a dozen items that need to be addressed. I am not looking to make sweeping changes (other than having 911 call Truck 2 – Tower 2…kidding Steve) With the help of the Operation Captains, as well as addition “staff”, I am looking to formalize and standardize some of the things we are doing, or not doing today. Some issues include: Driver requalification program, ICS SOP, EMS procedures, apparatus staffing, two channel operations, preplans/premise history. More importantly, Operations will be focusing on training. Not only do we need to train to educate ourselves, we need to train to build our future. We will try to do this in a variety of ways including management courses, county/state courses, seminars, and guest lecturers. But our priority will be the weekly drills. We will try to establish a long term drill schedule posted on the web. Each officer will be required to teach drills and will have an assistant through a training mentor program. There will be a daytime and nighttime drill coordinator to help the instructor with materials and equipment. With the schedule laid out well in advance and with the assistance of the coordinators, zero tolerance will be given to instructors who blow off drill. Bottom line, we all need to take training seriously. The Operations Sector will try to make the drills interesting, informative, educational, and most importantly, FUN!!! I am always open to comments and suggestions – do not hesitate to contact me. I am looking forward to my new position this year. Thank you, in advance, for your cooperation and patience – not only for me but for all of the new officers while they adjust to their new positions. As always, stay safe!

The Moyers Corners Fire Department Axuliary

 

By Jean Jones

 

The Moyers Corners Auxiliary was found 54 years ago with the fire department to help them in any way we could. Our role is to provide refreshments to the firefighters at the scene whenever they will be out an extended period of time. We also helped the firemen by preparing and serving the food at their fundraisers, such as pancake breakfast, smokers and for many year, the Firemen’s Field Days. We have purchased many items as needed or requested including the first ambulance, the first rescue say and hose washer. The auxiliary has also furnished kitchen supplies, bedding, tables, and chairs, curtains and blinds, a freezer and a refrigerator. We financed the purchase of children’s turnout gear for fire prevention and a Laryngoscope for the ambulance. Our organization has donated to the Explorer Post and the Medical Rescue Squad, the Burn Unit, needy families at holiday time and our own fire department members. We also support two scholarships each year with the fire department. Where do we get the money? Well, we hold many fundraisers. We are always looking for new ways to finance our projects and are coming up short with ideas and helping hands to carry them out. The auxiliary is a helping hand to the fire department. We need new ideas, more willing hands to help. That con only come from you. Won’t you join us? We meet at 7:30pm the fourth Monday of each month at Station 1. Joining an organization where you don’t know a sould can be a little unnerving. We understand that, we’ve been there. Come as a guest, come join and get involved. Find out how you can become part of the “helping hand”.

 

 

 

January 15th, 2002

 

Morgan Road cut job
www.mcfd.org
On Jan, 15th, at 22:26 Moyers Corners Stations 2 & 4 and NOVA were dispatched for a car off the road at the corner of Morgan and Wetzel Rds. Engine 22 (Lt. Barnes) responded with an in-house crew and arrived on scene in two minutes. The size-up had a sedan in a large ditch filled with 3 feet of water with one occupant trapped complaining of neck, back and head pain. The doors were pinned due to the ditch banks and the crew from Engine 22 was able to gain limited access for C-spine precautions. 
Rescue 4 (Lt. Corsaro) arrived shortly thereafter with a crew of 8 and started the extrication size-up. A roof ladder from Eng 22 was placed on the passenger side of the car over the ditch to allow the rescue company to operate without entering the water. A roof cut was intitated and the occupant was removed in 11 minutes. Patient care was turned over to NOVA and the patient was transported to University Hospital. All units were in service by 23:15. 

Units Operating- Eng 22, Rescue 4, Sq-2,  Command-Batt 2 (Wisnowski), Safety-Lt. Barnes, 
Rescue Operations Lt Corsaro

 

January 22nd, 2002
Working bedroom fire
www.mcfd.org
Shortly after 1500 hours on Tuesday 1/22/02 crews from Moyers Corners and Belgium-Cold Springs were dispatched to a bedroom fire at 8337 Zenith Drive in Liverpool. Reports quickly came in indicating a possible working fire. 
Liverpool Car-1 (Chief Smith) arrived and reported smoke and fire from side one on the second floor. Car 2 (Chief Bressette) arrived moments after and assumed Zenith Command.  Crews from Engine 11 (Lt. Perkins) and Ladder 1 (FF Kenyon) were first to arrive on the scene and made a quick knock on the fire. Engine 41 assisted with a second line, while Ladder 1 and Truck 2 crews took ventilation and laddering. With extensive fire damage confined to the one bedroom, the remainder of the 2nd floor sustained heavy smoke and heat damage. Units operating at the scene included Moyers Corners E-11, E-31, E-41, Belgium E-21, Moyers Corners Ladder 1, Truck 2, and Rescue 3. Car 3 (Chief Zaferakis) had Operations and BC-2 (Chief Wisnowski) had Safety. Units cleared shortly after 4:30.

 

January 23rd, 2002
Fire damages two mobile homes
www.mcfd.org
Crews from Moyers Corners were alerted at 0918 for a possible structure fire at 3106 Berkley Court in the Casual Estates Trailer Park. Shortly after the dispatch, Station 1 reported smoke visible from quarters. Further reports indicated that the fire had spread to another nearby structure. Battalion Chief 2 (Chief Wisnowski) arrived and assumed Berkley Court Operations, while Battalion Chief 1 (Chief Hall) assumed Command moments after and a working fire signal 99 was initiated. Engines 11 (Lt. Fritz) and 21 (Lt. Patkochis) arrived together and initiated a split lay. Because of large amount of fire and risk to the exposure, Engine 21 initiated a blitz attack utilizing the deck gun, while Engine 11 crews pulled the 2-1/2" line off Engine 21. Shortly after Fire Department arrival the roof of the structure collapsed. Initial water supply problems were overcome and 2 lines (2 ? and 2?) where quickly put into service.

Engine 22 (Capt. Zaferakis) initiated a secondary split line for an additional water supply, though it was never picked up. Crews from Engines 41 (FF Norman), 31 (Capt. Stevens) and Engine 22 also assisted at the scene. Engine 31 positioned in the cul-de-sac behind the residence and utilized an extended lay pack for the 3rd line. Ladder 1 (FF Kenyon) provided forcible entry and a primary search on the second structure, and overhaul on the primary structure. The residence next door sustained minor damage to the siding, and the cause of the fire has been determined as a child playing with a lighter. Units remained on the scene for approximately 3 hours.

 

January 31st, 2002
Fire of Unknown Origin Damages Clay House
The Post-Standard
A fire damaged the upstairs of a house in Clay Jan. 22, firefighters said.
Some residents of the home were present when the fire started, but no one was hurt, firefighters said. It took firefighters from the Moyers Corners Fire Department less than five minutes to extinguish the blaze. Investigators had not immediately determined a cause of the fire. According to Onondaga County Assessment records, the house is owned by Brien and Sheryl Mumau.

 

February 1st, 2002
Basement fire in a townhouse
www.mcfd.org
On Friday Feb. 1, 2002 shortly after 9:00 AM, units from all four Moyers Corners Stations and an additional Engine from the Liverpool FD responded to 33 Winchester Drive for a reported structure fire. 
Winchester Drive, located in the Battalion 3 Area, is a subdivision made up of two-story townhouses with common basements. Initial calls reported flames showing from a basement window. 
Engine 31 (FF Liberatore) arrived with smoke showing and advanced an initial hose line into the basement area. The bulk of the fire was contained to the room of origin with minor extension into the townhouse above. Truck 2 (Lt. Patkochis) assisted with ventilation and overhaul as well as Liverpool Engine 2. Ladder 1 (FF Kenyon) assumed the RIT function. Crews were on-scene for about an hour and a half. Lt. Patkochis had the Command, while Captain Stevens assumed Operations. Units operating: E-31, E-22, E-41, Truck-2, Ladder-1, and Liverpool E-2

 

February 10th, 2002
Truck 2 to working house fire in Clay
www.mcfd.org
Crews from Clay, North Syracuse (Truck), Cicero (Engine) and Moyers Corners (2nd due Truck) were dispatched at 15:22 hours on 2/10/02 to a possible house on fire at 5543 Taormina Drive in Clay. Clay Engine 22 (Lt. Redhead) had the first due and reported heavy fire in the attic, and requested a working fire dispatch. North Syracuse Truck 1 arrived seconds after and split the crew for a second line on the fire and a crew inside to assist locating the fire in the attic area.  Upon arrival of Moyers Corners Truck 2 (Lt. Barnes) about nine minutes into the fire with heavy smoke still showing, they promptly secured the utilities to the structure. Following that Truck 2's crew was sent to the 3-4 corner of the structure with the Thermal Imaging Camera and tasked with all the exterior overhaul operations, reporting to Clay C-2 (Chief Stack). After the removal of all the siding, fiber board, and insulation from grade level to the soffit, and verifying no extension, Truck 2 was released from the scene and requested to relocate to Clay Station 3 and stand by. Moyers Corners Engine 12 was also standing by at Clay Station 2 during the alarm.

 

February 14th, 2002
Engine 32 involved in accident
www.mcfd.org
During rush hour traffic on 2/14/02 Engine 32, responding mutual aid to Liverpool, was involved in a Property Damage Accident at the intersection of West Taft Road and Henry Clay Boulevard. After stopping at the traffic light, the driver of the Engine proceeded through the intersection getting about half-way through before being hit just behind the pump panel on the drivers side. Damage to Engine 32 was limited to the curb jumper hose well, body molding and compartment doors. The passenger car received severe damage to the front end. Onondaga County Sheriff's Department investigated the incident and the driver of the car was issued a ticket for failure to yield to an emergency vehicle. Thankfully no one was injuried in the incident.

 

February 15th, 2002
Heroes celebration day at MRE
www.mcfd.org
The students and staff of Morgan Road Elementary School, located in the MCFD Battalion 2 first-due area held a HEROES Celebration and Recognition Song Festival on the afternoon of Friday February 15th at the MRE School Campus off Wetzel Road. Following the events of September 11th, 2001, the faculty, students and staff have been actively involved in a wide variety of activities and projects associated with the school wide theme of Heroes, with a focus on the true meaning of what constitutes a Hero; values, quality, sacrifice, dedication and commitment to community and national services, character, attributes and themes to instill caring, cooperation, strength, compassion and appreciation. 

The students created individual HERO t-shirts that were worn as part of the celebration. Invitations were sent out throughout the community by the students and staff to parents, family members, individuals & groups that embodied the characteristics of Heroes. Over sixty special and honored guests from all walks of life attended the celebration which recognized the past and current contributions made by these valued members of the community. These honored guests included Fire, Police, EMS, Armed Services veterans and active members, Service Groups, Volunteers, and all those who contributed in the past or are currently actively contributing towards making the community and our great nation a better place to live and enjoy the freedoms and quality of life we hold so precious. The focus of this event, as depicted by Mr. Frederick F. Fowler, Morgan Road Elementary Principal was for the students to be able to see, first-hand, real people; parents, family members, neighbors and others who are heroes in their own rights, and not just the imaginary or media hyped ?heroes? that the students? sometimes equate to. 

Honored MCFD representatives included Captain Steve Zaferakis, Lieutenant Christopher Naum and Firefighters Justin Roland and Ryan Norman. A reception was held by the MRE Parent Teacher Organization which was followed by a school-wide assembly attended by all students and staff, which was filled with song melodies, sung by the entire student body celebrating the virtues of heroism. These moving renditions, the obvious pride and enthusiasm exhibited by the students contributed to an exceptional experience shared by all in attendance.

 

 

 

February 17th, 2002
Signal 80 – PIAA Car vs. Tree with extrication
www.mcfd.org
On Sunday evening 02/17 at 2148 hours, MCFD Battalion 2 Box 2223 was dispatched for a reported Signal 80, personal injury automobile accident, with possible entrapment in the vicinity of the 4000 block of Elmcrest Road between Woodside Lane and Pawnee Drive. Additional information from the 911 Center indicated one vehicle with five occupants had struck a tree head-on, with one confirmed entrapment. Engine Company 22, Rescue Company 4 and Battalion 2 Chief (BC-2) were assigned the Box with Squad Co.2 being added as a special, following its availability from a previous EMS run. Three EMS Ambulance units were also dispatched to the box. Engine Co. 22, under the command of Acting Officer Mike G. Brown, was first-due and confirmed one occupant in the car was trapped and would require extrication. The four other victims were out of the vehicle and would require medical attention. Following initial size-up, Engine 22 concentrated on vehicle hazards and stretched an 1 ?? line to provide for hazards and personnel protection during the extrication efforts. Rescue Co. 4, under the command of Capt. E. J. Stevens, used a variety of hydraulic tools to cut the roof and peel the passenger side doors away from the vehicle. Squad Co. 2, under the command of Lt. Chip Piraino, who was assigned EMS Sector Command, focused on providing medical care for the other victims. Battalion Chief Jim Wisnowski, BC-2 assumed Elmcrest Incident Command with Deputy Chief Mike Zaferakis- Car 3 assuming the Safety Sector. Extrication was completed within fifteen minutes and all five patients were transported to local area hospitals by two NOVA Ambulances and one Rural Metro EMS Unit. Published reports indicated that a combination of excessive speed and icy road conditions contributed to the accident.

 

February 18th, 2002
Heat tape causes trailer fire
www.mcfd.org
On Monday evening, 02/18 at 2058 hours, MCFD companies were dispatched to Battalion 1, Box 1211 for a reported occupied trailer fire at 6103 Landsend Lane, in the Casual Estates community. Additional particulars from the 911 Center indicated several callers reporting smoke and flames coming from the single-wide, occupied trailer. Additional information from the fire dispatcher stated that the occupant was making several attempts to get back inside the burning structure to rescue a trapped dog. Responding units consisted of Engine Companies E-11, E-41, E-21, E-22, Ladder Co.1, Rescue Companies RS-4 and RS-3 and Battalion Chiefs, BC-1 & BC-2. Car-3 also was on the box.
Battalion Chief B. Hall (BC-1) arrived on-scene and reported heavy smoke showing and confirming all occupants were out of the trailer. Deputy Chief M. Zaferakis (Car-3) and Engine Company 41 arrived seconds later and commenced with initial operations. Initial size-up identified a fairly large body of fire under the trailer. As Engine Co. 41's crew was advancing out an initial attack line, the fire extended into the interior of the structure. Engine 41's crew, under the command of Lt. Zeppetello, advanced an 1-3/4" line through the front door on side 2 and encountered a large body of fire in the living room and extending down the hallway to the rear (side 3) of the trailer. Rescue Co. 4, under the command of Capt. E. J. Stevens, ventilated the windows in the rear of the trailer and secured the utilities. A second attack line was stretched from E-41 to contain the fire under the trailer. The main body of fire was knocked within a couple of minutes through the aggressive efforts of the E-41 crew members. Additional operating companies on-scene consisting of Engine Co.11 under the command of Acting Officer Florczykowski, Ladder Co. 1, Captain R. Bittel, Engine Co. 21, Lt. B. Patkochis, and Engine Co. 22, Lt. C. J. Naum assisted with extensive overhaul of the exterior and interior areas. Rescue Co. 3, under the command of Lt. C. Smith were assigned the RIT Team. Additional command support was provided by Battalion Chief J. Wisnowski (BC-2). As a result of the deep seated fire extension under the trailer, several sections of the flooring and structural sub-floor had to be removed with a chain saw to access the remaining "hot spots". Companies operated on-scene for about an hour before the box assignment was reduced, and companies released. 
Onondaga County Fire Investigators? determined the probable cause to be malfunctioning heat tape under the trailer. The trailer and its contents sustained significant heavy damage throughout.

 

March 16th, 2002
Engine 11 responds to minivan fire on 481
www.mcfd.org
At 10:16 hours on Saturday March 16, 2002 - MCFD Station #1 was dispatched to a reported car fire on Rt. 481 one mile south of Rt. 31. Upon arrival E-11 (F.F. Fritz) found a minivan with the front end fully involved. The crew of E-11 pulled a 1-3/4 line and made a quick knockdown of the fire.  There were no injuries.

 

March 23rd, 2002
Signal 80
www.mcfd.org
Shortly after 1:30 PM on 3/23/02, crews were alerted to an automobile accident with injuries on John Glenn Boulevard at Oswego Road. Liverpool Engine 3 was in the area and ran extra on the call. C-2 (Chief Bressette) arrived with Engine 3 and assumed the John Glenn command. Engine 22 (Lt. Patkochis) and Rescue 4 (Lt. Corsaro) arrived moments later to assist with patient care and vehicle hazards. Access to the passenger side of one of the vehicles was hampered by standing water in the ditch. Injuries to all the vehicle occupants were minor, and crews were picked up in a short while. The Police were helpful in dealing with an uncooperative driver.

 

March 23rd, 2002
Crews remove one from smoke filled apartment
www.mcfd.org
At 21:16 hours on 3/23/02 crews from Moyers Corners were alerted to a possible apartment fire at 7651 Morgan Road, the Buckley Park Apartments. While enroute units were advised that there was music inside the apartment but no answer at the door. Upon arrival, Engine 21 (Lt. Patkochis) reported light smoke in the 2nd floor hallway with forcible entry needed to apartment #3.

After forcing entry, E-21’s crew was able to find a semi-conscious victim in the living area with heavy smoke in the entire apartment. The victim was quickly removed and brought outside to EMS. The crew from E-31 (Lt. Lyons) assisted with patient care until the ambulance arrived. Crews from Truck 2 (Capt. Race) assisted with a further search of the apartment and determined the cause to be burned food on the stove. There was no fire damage to the structure. Ventilation was completed and crews were picked up in about a half hour. C-2 (Chief Bressette) had the command with C-1 (Chief Perkins) having Operations.

 

 

 

March 27th, 2002
M/A NSFD Basement Fire

 

April 2002
MCFD Newsletter, Volume 2 Issue 2
Moyers Corners Fire Dept. Helps Out Brothers in the East
By Battalion Chief Ben Hall
On Thursday March 7th, two firefighters from the Manlius and Fayetteville Fire Departmetns were lost in the line of duty. John, “Gino” Ginochetti and Timothy “TJ” Lynch answered their last alarm at a structure fire in Pompey. The Moyers Corners Fire Department provided a considerable amount of assistance to both departments as well as the Pompey Fire Department during this very trying time. During the recovery operation, fire control put out a request for a Chief from MCFD to provide a standby crew to fill Manlius Station 2 for the overnight shift. Chief Perkins along with a crew staffing Engine 32 responded and stood by until 0600 Friday. The Fayetteville Fire Department contacted us requesting assistance with the honor guard for TJ. Twenty-two of our members tood proudly with T.J. during this time including during the early hours on Monday (thanks Station 3). On Sunday we were again contacted by Fayetteville to provide color guards during T.J.’s calling hours. Again, the brothers from Moyers Corners came through, providing 18 members for this very tough yet very important time. The department also assisted with additional standby coverage during this time. A crew from Station 1 with Engine 12 stood by from 0600-1800 on Monday, at the Pompey Hill firehouse, and a crew from Station 2 stood by with Truck 2 at the Manlius Fire Station from 1800-0600 on both Monday and Wednesday. In addition, there were crews standing by at Station 2 throughout the weekend. Finally, the MCFD was a significant presence at both of the funerals on Tuesday. In addition to approximately 30 members participating, Ladder 1 was in the procession for both of our falled brothers. The department again showed why we are considered one of the best in the county. In the words of one of the Chiefs from Manlius, “we knew if we called you guys, we would ge more help than asked for, and the members would all act in a professional manner,” We obviously all pray that we never have to go through something like this again, but it’s a credit to all of the mbers that if we do, the good brothers of Moyers Corners will come together and get through it. 
President’s Update
By President Greg Shaffer
The first three months of 2002 have been sad and busy. In January, two of our auxiliary members passed away. Charter Member Margery Arnold and forty year member Helen Fulton also known as the fish pond lady at the field days. In March we lost retired life member Frank Tietz, nine year member Edward “George” Ingoldby, and ten year member Erich Schmidtmann. In between all of this two of our brothers in the Manlius and Fayetteville fire departments died in the line of duty at a fire in Pompey. I would like to thank all of the members who assisted the Manlius, Pompey and Fayetteville fire departments. For Manlius we provided two overnight standby crews with Truck 2. The Monday night crew washed and waxed Manlus’ apparatus that was used for the funeral. We also had members cook/prepare food and set-up all of the transportation logistics for the funeral and reception. The crew that went to Pmpey washed all of their apparatus as well. For Fayetteville our members coordinated and participated in the five day 24 hour honor guard for one of the fallen. Our auxiliary provided food, drink and supplies to the Manlius Fire Department and the reception after the funerals. If I had missed something that our members did I am sorry, to say the least, what we did is true character of the Moyers Corners Fire Department, Neighbors helping Neighbors. At the end of March a good friend from of Moyers Corners passed away, Past Chief George Dann of the Phoenix Fire Department. We went to the calling hours and Truck 2 participated in the funeral. Again, thanks. On a brighter note we hired a new administrative assistant. Karen Proctor is the wife of Past Chief John Proctor of the Mattydale FD. I would like to thank my board members for keeping the day to day operations of the department going. A big thank you to Dawn Richardson who has kept our fire reports and records updated and makine sure everythine else Is taken care of. At the February business meeting we installed the 2002 officers of the fire department, I want to thank Past Chief Chet Fritz for doing the honors of being the installation officer. 
Chief’s Update
By John Perkins
Recent events around the county have challenged us, yet we responded in the true spirit of brotherhood. Many members went well beyond the call of duty to assist our brothers and sisters in Manlius, Fayetteville, and Pompey Hill. Whatever was askedof us, we provided without question. When we are all able to apply that same spirit to our dealings at home, we will have accomplished a great thing. Within our own department, it has been a productive time. The SOP’s have been published and distributed and we are now putting the final touches on a few additional SOP’s that should provide a good documented framework for our operations. The department training schedule ahs been completed for the year and promised to provide the training we need to continue to be one of the leaders within the county. The department website continues its evolution and expansion to provide additional information to the members as well as the citizens we serve. Recruiting officers have been appointed and they are putting together some ideas at improving our recruitment efforts. Please provide them your ideas and support. I have recently met with Clay Chief Rioux, North Syracuse Chief Brennan, and Liverpool Chief Smith in an effort to coordinate our procedures, purchases, and training. We are expanding the communication and cooperation between our neighboring departments. Some of the neighboring departments are in the process of updating their box alarm assignments and some changes and additions are in the works. Last, but certainly not least, we need to continue our efforst at increasing response and reducing response times. There are still some times were there is room from improvement. Let’s all make the effort to respond as often as we possibly can. Thank you for your continued support.

 

April 9th, 2002
Moyers Corners and Liverpool battle stubborn house fire
www.mcfd.org
The Moyers Corners & Liverpool Fire Departments responded to a reported house fire Tuesday morning at 206 Sheridan Road, MCFD Box 2221. Initial dispatch at 1115 hours reported fire coming from the front of the house. Liverpool F.D. was activated under normal daytime box response. Ironically, Liverpool responded to an EMS call just two houses down from the fire earlier that morning as the Town Boundary runs through that area. Liverpool Engine 1 called out shortly after dispatch. Meanwhile, Liverpool station 2 reported to Fire Control that smoke was visible from their station (about 2 miles away!). Liverpool Car 3 arrived to find heavy fire from side 1 of the structure, struck a Signal 99 (working fire) and established command.

Liverpool Engine 1, led by F/F Terry McGillis, arrived shortly after, layed in from the hydrant and advanced a 1 3/4" handline to the front door. Moyers Corners Cars 2 & 3 arrived simultaneously and took the Operations and Safety sectors respectively. Moyers Corners Engine 21 maintained the primary water supply, while the crew led by F/F Bob Driscoll pulled a second line. Upon arrival, Moyers Corners Truck 2 (Capt. Zaferakis) initiated horizontal ventilation and interior overhaul as the bulk of the fire had self-vented through the roof and was being darkened down by the interior crews. Moyers Corners Engine 31 (Lt. Chura) pulled a handline to side 2 and entered the structure. Even though the bulk of the fire was being darkened, the interior crews were still experiencing high heat conditions. Operations tasked Moyers Corners Rescue 3 (F/F Goldberg) with opening the pitched roof. 

Rescue 3's crew was able to cut a large hole quickly, but determined that a flat, stone roof existed below the pitched roof preventing effective ventilation. Fire was still eminating from the eaves on side 1, and was now advancing into the void space between the two roofs. To stop the fire travel in the void space, and since the interior fire had been knocked down, interior crews vacated the structure and a handline was briefly placed in service on the roof. As the handline was being put into position on the roof, heavy fire began to consume the void space (as shown in the local media). The handline was able to quickly knock down the bulk of that fire. The remainder of the operation consisted of heavy overhaul as the house had been and was in the process of being renovated and built over in several spots. Additional crews assisting on the scene were Engine 11 (F/F Gill), Ladder 1 (Capt. Bittel), Engine 41 (F/F Newton-RIT), Engine 32 (F/F Dembowski), Engine 22 (F/F Turiello), Liverpool Squad 2 (Lt. Ormsby - RIT). Manpower sector was supervised by Liverpool Car 2. The well-coordinated efforts of all personnel involved led to the safe operation of putting out this stubborn fire, while saving the majority of the structure. Nice Job!

 

April 9th, 2002
New squads put in service
www.mcfd.org
Moyers Corners Fire Department recently put into service two new 2002 Ford Expeditions to serve as EMS response units. The two new squads will replace two older 1990 Chevy Suburbans, Squad #1 and Squad #2. On average the two vehicles each responded to over 300 medical alarms per year.  The two Expeditions were purchased from Fred Raynor Ford in Fulton, NY. Through several months of wrestling with the best way to replace the two aging vehicles, Fred Raynor was particularly helpful in working with the department to determine the most cost-effective approach to acquiring the vehicles. Custom striping for the vehicles was done by Syracuse Signage in Liverpool. The units are equipped with such medical items as an SAED (semi-automatic external defibrillator), folding backboard, pulse oximeter, a suction device, a frac-pack, as well as many other Basic and Intermediate Life Support necessities. 

April 10th, 2002
Galbraith Court fire
www.mcfd.org
Shortly after 1500 hours on Wednesday 4/10/02, crews from Moyers Corners and Liverpool were alerted to a possible apartment fire at 20 Galbraith Court in the Saddle Club Townhouse area. Car 2 (Chief Bressette) arrived to find smoke coming from the front door. Engine 21 (Lt. Piraino) arrived and laid an initial supply line, then began a quick interior attack. Engine 21’s crew was split with Captain Zaferakis performing a primary search beyond the fire room. Engine 31 (FF Avondet) laid a second supply line due to the failure of the initial line early into the fire. Liverpool Engine 1 (Lt. Cantey), Engine 41 (FF Newton), Rescue 3 (FF Houde), and Truck 2 (Lt. Perkins) assisted at the scene with searches, ventilation, and overhaul. The fire was knocked down in just under 10 minutes and damage was limited to the apartment of origin. No one was injured in the fire. Moyers Corners Car 2 (Chief Bressette) had the "Command", while Liverpool Car 1 (Chief Smith) took "Operations".

 

April 16th, 2002
Truck 2 special call to Volney
www.mcfd.org
On 04/16/02 MCFD Truck 2 was special called to Phoenix, NY for assistance at a Signal 99 house fire on Volney St. The Phoenix FD and other Mutual Aid departments were on-scene for about 20 minutes when the request for assistance was made. Upon Truck 2's arrival (Lt. Patkochis) they were directed to position the apparatus on side 4 of the house and set up for use of the Aerial. The crew performed vertical ventilation and assisted with fire extinguishment. MCFD Engine 12 was requested to Phoenix Station #1 for a coverage move-up.

 

April 18th, 2002
MCFD works another daytime job
www.mcfd.org
Firefighters from Moyers Corners and Liverpool were again summoned during the daytime for a fire, this time at 4577 Wetzel Rd in the MCFD 2205 Box. Units were dispatched to a reported chimney fire at the above address. Engine 21 (Lt. Patkochis) arrived to find a moderate smoke condition in the structure with possible extension of the fire into the walls surrounding the wood stove. Crews from Ladder 1 (FF Kenyon) arrived shortly after and located a small fire in the rafters in the basement and assisted in putting two lines into service to contain fires on the seperate floors. Personnel from Engine 41 (FF Newton), Liverpool Engine 2, and MCFD Rescue 3 (FF Liberatore) brought in a water supply and assisted in the large overhaul process of tearing apart the chimney. Truck 2 (FF White) assumed the roof sector and led the efforts to dismantle the upper halves of the chimney while checking for extension. 

Deputy Chief Bressette had the "Command", while 3rd Battalion Chief Wisnowski had the "Operations". Lt Piraino was tasked with "Safety". Units operated onscene for two hours while full coverage moveups were utilized. The new MSA 4000 Thermal Imaging Camera, the 2nd camera now in use by MCFD, was very helpful in locating the fire's extension. This is the 4th working fire daytime crews from Moyers Corners and Liverpool have been summoned to in the last two weeks.

 

April 23rd, 2002
Another busy day for MCFD crews
www.mcfd.org
Moyers Corners Stations 1,3, & 4 and Clay F.D. were dispatched to a Signal 80 (Personal Injury Auto Accident) on Rt. 481 between Exits 11 & 12 Tuesday at 1730 hours. Initial dispatch indicated a possible rollover and that extrication may be required. MCFD Engine 12 (F/F Fritz), already on the road after investigating a possible accident on Rt. 481 north of Rt. 31, arrived first and confirmed a one vehicle rollover and that extrication would be required. Clay Car 3 (Chief Mulveney) arrived shortly after and established Command. MCFD Rescue 4 (Capt. Stevens) with the assistance of Engine 12's crew rolled the roof to gain access to the driver who ended up in the back seat. Clay Engine 22 (Capt. Dickerson) manned the handline and also assisted with extrication. MCFD Rescue 3 (F/F Goldberg) and Clay Engine 31 staged on the highway. Clay Car 4 (Chief Redhead) assumed Operations and MCFD Batt. 1 (Chief Hall) was the Safety Officer. The coordination and cooperation of the crews led to the victim being extricated from the heavily damaged car in about 20 minutes.

...and Then a Working Fire

About an hour after clearing the car accident, Moyers Corners and Clay were activated for a structure fire on Horseshoe Island, Box 1201. MCFD Engine 11 and B/C 1 and Clay Engine 21 and Car 2 (Chief Stach) responded immediately as they were still in quarters. Fire Control advised that they were receiving several calls. Phoenix Car 2 (Chief Sponable) noticed from across the river heavy fire showing from the structure and advised MCFD Car 1 who transmitted a signal 99. MCFD Engine 11 (Capt. Bittel) and Clay Engine 21 (Lt. Hoover) arrived to find heavy fire showing from side 2. MCFD B/C 1 assumed the Command, Clay Car 2 took Operations, and MCFD Car 1 (Chief Perkins) took Safety. Sector 3 Command (side 3-rear) was established by Lt. Naum (portable E-21) following Engine 21's assignment for structural assessment & primary search by Command. Engine 11 established the primary water supply and relayed to Clay Engine 21. As crews from Engine 11 and Clay Engine 21 were preparing for an interior attack, the roof collapsed. Safety advised all units to commence an outside attack. MCFD Engine 41 (Lt. Corsaro) pulled a 2 1/2" handline while Clay Engine 21 knocked down the bulk of the fire with their Squirt. E-21, TR-2 and RSQ 3 companies operated extensively on sides 3/4 and completed interior fire suppression operations and the primary search assignment. Capt. Jennings, Lt. Patkochis & Lt. Barnes provided supervisory oversight for interior operating companies. Additional units assisting on the scene: MCFD Ladder 1 (F/F Kenyon), Truck 2 (Lt. Barnes), & Rescue 3 (Capt. Jennings) assisted with overhaul, MCFD Engine 21 (Lt. C.J. Naum) fire suppression, MCFD Rescue 4 was the RIT, and MCFD Engine 22 (Capt. Race) helped with final operations and clean-up. The bulk of the fire was knocked down in 15 minutes and crews operated on the scene for about 3 hours.

 

April 24th, 2002
Fire Hits House in Clay; Dog Rescue From Blaze
The Post-Standard
A beagle was rescued from a fire that ripped through a home in Clay while its owner was away Tuesday evening, firefighters said. The fire, which was reported just after 7 p.m., tore a large hole in the roof of 3476 Horseshoe Island Road. It took firefighters from Moyers Corners and Clay fire departments about 15 minutes to extinguish the blaze, said Moyers Corners Battalion Chief Ben Hall. No one was hurt in the blaze. Onondaga County assessment records show that the home is owned by Dolores Collard.

 

 

 

April 27th, 2002
Wetzel Road MCI
www.mcfd.org
Volunteers from Moyers Corners Stations 2 & 3 were summonded just before 10AM on Saturday, April 27th for a reported personal injury auto accident in the area of Buckley and Wetzel Road. Engine 22 (Lt Patkochis) arrived first and sized-up a two-car head on MVA with one car having a victim heavily entrapped. In consulting with the Rescue 3 officer (Capt Jennings) an additional heavy rescue from Liverpool was requested. 

The two striking vehicles were roughly 150 ft apart and thus two seperate "operations" officers were established. Extrication on the Chevy Impala was performed by crews from MCFD Rescue 3, MCFD Rescue 4 (Capt Stevens) and members of Engine 22, led by Capt Jennings. The extrication required door removal, roof removal, dash roll and steering column cut and was completed in about 20 minutes. The mini-van had 4 patients on board and required the services of MCFD Squad 2 (FF Brown), Liverpool Rescue 1 (Capt. Griffin) and Rescue 3 (Capt. Frani) under the command of Capt. Race. 5 ALS ambulances from Rural/Metro, GBAC, NAVAC and NOVA were utilized and transportation of 5 pts was headed up by Capt. Zaferakis, "EMS Command". Lt Zepetello assumed the "Safety" position and B/C Jim Wisnowski had the "Command", while B/C Hall provided command assistance. Volunteers from MCFD handled over 10 alarms in the response area on Saturday to end a very busy week!!

 

 

 

May 4th, 2002
The Miracle of Life!
www.mcfd.org
Moyers Corners Squad 2 (Lt. Barnes) with the assistance of NAVAC Ambulance delivered a healthy baby boy on Saturday, May 4, 2002 at 16:35 hours.  Units arrived to find mom's contractions a lot less than five minutes apart, baby's head crowning, and delivery imminent. Baby was delivered without complication and as far as we know mom and baby are doing fine. Thank God for calls such as these which help to cancel out all of the "bad" things we often have to deal with on EMS alarms. Good job to Chief Perkins, Captain Race, Lieutenant Barnes, Firefighter Rowland, and NAVAC for taking the situation head on (pun intended) and for being able to witness this rare miracle unfold before them.

 

May 17th, 2002
Battalion 2 Signal 80’s
www.mcfd.org
Friday evening May 17th at 20:59 hours, Battalion 2 was dispatched to a reported Signal 80 PIAA involving four (4) cars at the intersection of Oswego Road & Bel Harbor Drive. Box 2-2205 was dispatched consisting of Engine Company 22 under the command of Lt. C. J. Naum and Rescue Company 4 under the command of Capt. E.J. Stevens. Battalion Chief 2, Jim Wisnowski (BC-2) filled the box assignment. Upon arrival four (4) vehicles were found involved with no extrication required. E-22 addressed vehicle hazards and assisted RS-4 with two (2) patient packaging and ems support. NOVA and GBAC Ambulances provided additional ems and transport to area hospitals. Companies went into service at 21:28 hours. 

Saturday morning May 18th began with Box 2-2205 being transmitted at 09:08 hours for a reported Signal 80 automobile accident with entrapment, involving two (2) vehicles at the intersection of Wetzel Road and Morgan Road in the Battalion 2 response district. Engine Company 22 under the command of Lt. Chad Barnes and Rescue Company 4, under the command of Capt. E. J. Stevens were dispatched. Deputy Chief 2 Steve Bressette (DC-2) responded and assumed Incident Command. Upon arrival, one vehicle was found in the north bound lane of Morgan Road with a single patient trapped with significant vehicle damage as a result of the two car collision. E-22 set up for vehicle hazards and RS-4 began tool set up for extrication. Lt. Barnes assumed the Safety Sector, while Lt. Patkochis and Capt. E. J. Stevens coordinated rescue extrication procedures. Rescue Company 3 under the command of Lt. Dennis Lyons was special called on the box by IC to support in the rescue extrication tasks. The coordinated efforts of all company personnel from E-22, RS-3 and RS-4 completed timely patient stabilization, extrication and transfer of the victim to NOVA ambulance for transport to a Syracuse hospital. All companies cleared and went into service at 09:54 hours.

 

May 19th, 2002
Large scale terrorist exercise challenges local agencies
www.mcfd.org
On Sunday May 19th, the Onondaga County Executive's office, the City of Syracuse Mayor's office, the 174th Fighter Wing, the New York National Guard, Onondaga County Fire Coordinator’s Office and the Onondaga County Division of Emergency Management staged a large scale terrorist disaster exercise simulating the downing of a military fighter jet with extensive collateral damage adjacent to the P&C Stadium Complex and rail lines. The scenario was based upon simulated terrorist intelligence data that was learned several days prior to the incident, of a possible threat from somewhere in Canada.

The scenario played out on Sunday morning with the simulated downing of an F-16 fighter jet by a shoulder-launch missile in the vicinity of the P&C Stadium complex located in the Northern section of the City of Syracuse. Compounding the exercise challenges were the simulated debris field as a result of the aircraft explosion and crash raining down in the P&C Stadium complex and affecting numerous civilian casualties including a bus load of youth softball players on their way to a game. The adjacent railroad lines were affected with a freight train running through the area being hit, causing a tanker car carrying anhydrous ammonia to release its hazardous materials products. The challenges were numerous; a military plane down, carrying “live” armaments & munitions, a hazardous materials incident with an NH3 vapor cloud and a large scale mass casualty incident - all within the vicinity of the Regional Market Complex, the Carousel Center Shopping Mall and the busy Interstate Route 81exchange. 

Pre-determined County & City emergency services resources were alerted to the incident at 08:50 hours and included the participation of MCFD’s HazMat Company 3 and Rescue Company 3, under the command of Capt. Ron Jennings, of the 3rd Battalion. Staffing the companies were; FF Nick Stevens, FF, Kerry Ordway, FF Dan Izzo and FF Jim Gracievski.  According to Capt. Jennings, “ The incident scenarios & operational challenges allowed training skills to be implemented in real time to enhance proficiencies and allow our personnel to work under realistic conditions within a unified incident command system. Utilizing an extensive allotment of resources, strategic and tactical objectives were met while maintaining the highest regard for personnel safety”. 

Capt. Jennings further stated that, “The cooperative tactical assignments completed by City & County fire & ems companies & agencies, military, law enforcement & local hospital health care agencies identified that all agencies can work together effectively when challenged by an incident of this scale and magnitude”. Capt. Jennings was assigned HazMat Safety Sector responsibilities that included resource & equipment logistics support for personnel operating in the hot zone and coordinating contaminated patient removal from the isolation zones. Additional MCFD firefighters were suited in Level “B” PPE and supported injured patient removal from the isolation areas and transfer to ems triage & staging. 

Area-wide Explorer Scouts and Civil Air Patrol members played the role of the youthful victims in the MCI, with added realism due in part to the extensive preparation in the MCI, with many “victims” dressed in extensive moulage and layed amongst pieces of staged military aircraft wreckage in the impact area. Over 275 fire, rescue, ems and law enforcement personnel from area agencies participated including 100 personnel from military agencies, 80 Explorer Scouts and Civil Air Patrol members and numerous county and city personnel from governmental agencies and departments.  According to published reports, Pete Alberti, Onondaga County Emergency Management Director, stated, “This was the largest emergency training drill he's been involved with in the County to date.” He said the county plans to do this type of training more frequently, though not necessarily with as elaborate a plan as Sunday's drill.

Due to the significantly cold weather, with temperatures hovering at 45 degrees F., the two (2) recently purchased County & City decontamination trailers that were purchased through federal and state grants after the 9-11 terrorist attacks were not fully deployed into operation for Decon. Injured patients were transported to the five local area hospitals, where hospital medical personnel became involved in the drill. The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) in the sub-basement of the John H. Mulroy Civic Center was activated and partially staffed to coordinate incident command management and operational coordination of the incident.  Capt. Jenning’s wrap-up of the exercise concluded with the following comments; “ All company and command officers need to understand the scope and operating parameters that an incident of this type will require. All personnel need to open their eyes to the demands and need for increased proficiency, technical knowledge and skills that must be mastered in order for all the required strategic and tactical objectives to be safely addressed.“ He further stated that, “Training, knowledge and skills need to be fine tuned, in order for an incident like this to be mitigated safely.”

 

May 2nd, 2002
E41 and Truck 2 take in job in Clay
www.mcfd.org
MCFD Engine Co. 41 and Truck Co. 2 were assigned to Clay FD Box 2220 on the first alarm assignment for a reported structure fire in the vicinity of 8149 Morgan Road near the Fairway East Section of Clay. Fire companies of the Clay Fire Department responded to the alarm at 17:36 hours on Wednesday May 22 following numerous cell phone calls to the Onondaga County E-911 center reporting flames coming from a large garage/ storage building near the intersection of Morgan Road and Waterhouse Road.  Truck Company 2 under the command of Lt. Chad Barnes was first due and found significant fire blowing from side 3 of the one story, unoccupied structure. The building, of ordinary construction had no threatened exposures and upon the arrival of MCFD Deputy Chief Steve Bressette (DC-2) a Signal 99 was transmitted signifying a working fire. 

MCFD E-41 under the command of Capt. E. J. Stevens arrived within a minute of T-2 and began established a water supply, while T-2 began raising the aerial for elevated masterstream operations. Clay FD first alarm companies included Clay E-21, 31, T-3 and SQ-3. MCFD DC-2 assumed Incident Command, with Clay Deputy Chief Mike Readhead assuming Operations & Deputy Chief Ken Stach assuming the Safety Sector. An aggressive exterior operation was initiated due to no life hazards present in the occupancy and the fire was brought under control within 20 minutes.  The alarm was held with a 3 & 1 response for committed operating companies, with the balance held at Level I staging, with some company manpower rotations to the scene to assist in overhaul. MCFD Engine Company 32, under the command of Capt. Ron Jennings responded as the RIT Team.  Onondaga County Fire Investigators were requested and commenced with the fire investigation.

 

May 10th, 2002
Squad companies 2 and 1 respond to a reported shooting
www.mcfd.org
Squad Co. 2 and 1 were dispatched to a reported shooting in the parking lot of the Gold’s Gym Complex, 7455 Morgan Road (Box 2215), adjacent to the Tudor Townhouse Complex. The alarm came in at 22:06 hrs., Wednesday evening May 22nd, in the Battalion 2 first-due area. Squad Co. 2 and Squad Co. 1 staged away from the immediate scene, until the area was secured by Onondaga County Sheriffs units and Clay PD, at which time, both Squads proceeded into the scene and began treatment to a 19 year old female, the victim of a shooting to the facial area. The non-life threatening injuries were treated and the patient was transported by NAVAC Ambulance to a Syracuse hospital. Conflicting statements at the scene lead PD to determine the altercation & possibly the shooting originated in the vicinity of the adjacent garden apartment and townhouse complexes. During patient treatment by MCFD fire & medical personnel, law enforcement agencies began an aggressive area wide search for the alleged perpetrator, who was still at-large at the time of this posting.  No other accurate information was available at the time both units went back into service.

 

 

 

May 16th, 2002
CNY Firefighters Try To Rescue Boys in Fatal Virginia Fire
The Post Standard
By Jim Read
Two Central New York firefighters visiting friends in Virginia were the first to arrive at a townhouse fire that killed two brothers early May 4. Scott Hammelberg, 18, lives at the Moyers Corners Fire Department while he studies fire science and protection at Onondaga County Community College and is a member of the Valley Stream Fire Department on Long Island. Steven H. Schlie, 24, is a former member of the Moyers Corners department, said Chief John Perkins. Schlie also served with the Clay Fire Department. The two men had driven to Virginia May 3 to see friends in an area of Prince William County just north of Manassas. After a night on the town, they were back at their friends' home when they spotted the fire down the block, Hammelberg said.

 

Fire was blowing out the window of the rear of the second floor of the townhouse, he said. They heard screams from the house and tried to use a garden hose to fight the flames, Hammelberg said. The brothers were in a front bedroom, which was adjacent to the room on fire, he said. After climbing the stairs, Hammelberg and Schlie had to crawl past the room on fire to get to the bedroom. Water from the hose kept the fire from spreading out of the burning room, but there was not enough water pressure to put out the flames. Heavy smoke filled the second floor, Hammelberg said. The screams prompted the men to act, Schlie said. "That's what we were trained to do. If I didn't hear the screams I probably wouldn't have gone in," he said. Because of the distance to the front bedroom, both men had trouble reaching the brothers inside. Prince William Fire and Rescue officials identified the brothers as Adante S. Cage and Ian M. Brown. A dog in a cage on the first floor was saved.

 

May 18th, 2002
Battalion 2 Signal 80’s

 

May 20th, 2002
Minor job keeps companies bus
www.mcfd.org
A quiet morning gave way to another busy afternoon for companies in the Battalion 2 first-due area on Monday May 20th. 2nd Battalion Box 2-2221 was transmitted at 12:42 hours for a fuel spill & ruptured diesel fuel tank on a commercial truck in the 7100 block of Morgan Road, intersection of the Liverpool By-Pass. Responding on the box were Engine Company E-22 under the command of Acting Officer Justin Roland, HazMat Co. 3 under the command of Acting Officer Jim Gracievski and the 3rd Battalion, BC-3, Ed Wisnowski. A ruptured saddle tank released over 80 gallons of diesel fuel, which was quickly contained and isolated by the operating companies. 

During this incident, an alarm was transmitted in the 3rd Battalion at 13:03 hrs. for an alarm system activation at 7481 Henry Clay Blvd., in a commercial business occupancy. Engine Companies E-31, E-41, Truck Company T-2 and Deputy Chief 2 Bressette, (DC-2) responded. Upon arrival, a quick investigation revealed no hazards present with a false system actuation present. Companies went into service at 13:32 hrs. 

Battalion 2, Box 2-2221 was transmitted at 14:24 hrs., for a reported structure fire in an industrial occupancy at 4545 Morgan Place. Occupied by Laidlaw Waste Systems, the building serves as a regional waste recycling & transfer center. The building, of Type II construction occupies over 45,000 square feet and processes recyclable waste products consisting of significant quantities of Class A materials and plastics. With a height of over 25 feet, the structure contains a significant fire load, with a large open plan processing area where waste products are received, sorted and recycled for transfer. 

Assigned to the box were E-21, E- 31, E-41, TR-2 and DC-2. Engine Co. 22, who was picking up from the earlier fuel spill was within a block of the occupancy and was added to the box assignment. Also assigned to the box was Liverpool FD, Engine Company E-1 and LFD Car 1. MCFD Deputy Chief Bressette (DC-2) arrived within 4 minutes and gave a size-up with significant smoke showing from the processing bays on Side 3 of the structure and established incident command. Engine Company 21 under the command of Lt. Brad Patkochis was assigned the interior fire suppression sector, and Truck Company 2 under the command of Capt. Steve Zaferakis assumed Operations for the incident. E-31 under the command of Acting Officer Steve Wisely, E-41 under the command of Acting Officer Jeff Newton and E-22 under the command of Acting Officer Justin Roland promptly were assigned tactical duties. 

A Signal-98 was transmitted following a quick determination by interior companies, that the fire was confined to a 100 foot long conveyor belt constructed over a 6 ft. enclosed service pit area. Prior to dispatch it was determined that a significant build-up of debris and waste products became lodged in the conveyor belt assembly prompting employees to attempt to free-up the operations while utilizing an acetylene torch to burn off the class A materials. It is suggested that the resulting deep-seated fire was attempted to be controlled by the plant workers prior to the E-911 call, due to the large quantity of discharged portable fire extinguishers found in the immediate area of operations by engine company personnel. 

A sustained water supply was established and two (2) initial attack lines, consisting of a 2-1/2 inch hand line and a 2 inch hand line were stretched into the interior processing area. T-2 set up for a potential defensive attack with the aerial in the event the fire extended, while other non-committed companies were level I staged. Following aggressive suppression efforts utilizing both straight bore nozzles and a breslin distributor, the conveyor pit was flooded out with the application of over 2000 gallons of water and the fire was quickly extinguished. LFD Engine E-1 was relocated to provide move-up station coverage as was MCFD Engine Company E-11 which relocated to Fire Station 4 during the operations. Companies went into service at 16:26 hours.

 

June 6th, 2002
ACCIDENT WAS STAGED, BUT IT MADE A POINT
The Post-Standard
With sirens blaring and wheels screeching, the state police and fire departments from Liverpool, Moyers Corners and North Syracuse arrived at the scene of an accident. No one was hurt. The accident was staged by several members of the senior class from Liverpool High School as a sobering event to remind their classmates of the effects of drinking and driving. Two vehicles involved in the staged event crashed, resulting in one student being arrested, two students being taken to local hospitals and one student being removed by the Medical Examiner in a bodybag. It was staged, it was dramatic, yet it was frightening to all seniors who witnessed the event. Liverpool seniors will have the opportunity of going to an after Senior Ball all night party, which is sponsored by the Senior Daze Committee. This safe and fun-filled event will feature food, games, raffles, prizes, entertainment and much more. The Senior Daze is at Liverpool High School on Friday night and continues through early Saturday morning.

 

June 10th, 2002
Crews challenged on confined space rescue call
www.mcfd.org
On Monday June 10th the crews of Station 2 and 3 were met with a challenge that we do not see every day. The reports of a 44 yr old man who fell into a man-hole? precipitated a 30-minute rescue operation within a confined space. BC2 (Jim Wisnowski) was first on the scene, confirmed the reports and assumed command. Rescue 3, lead by Captain Ron Jennings, arrived and was assigned the rescue operation. Squad 2, lead by Captain Steve Race, arrived to support EMS operations and T2, lead by Lt. Chad Barnes, supported the rescue operations. Car 1, John Perkins, assumed Safety and BC3, Ed Wisnowski, assisted with command. NAVAC provided the EMS transport.

The hole, a 4x3 ft sewer drain with a 5 ft drop, presented the standard hazards with confined space rescue. Limited room in the hole and concerns of O2 / other gases levels were top of the list. After initial size-up Captain Jennings and Lt. Dennis Lyons entered the confined space. Lt. Barnes assumed topside operations and provided EMS oversight to the crew in the hole. The decision on removal was hampered by the lack of space and inability to move the victim. A KED placement was ordered and crews set up to hoist the victim out. Approximately five members, plus two in the hole were required to hoist the victim out. Once extricated from the hole, the patient was placed on a backboard, reassessed for injuries and turned over to NAVAC ambulance.I would like to compliment the crews and officers on an outstanding operation.

 

June 11th, 2002
Squads 4,1 and GBAC respond to a severe personal injury at Pirate’s Cove marina
www.mcfd.org
On Monday, June 10, 2002 at 15:32 hours Moyers Corners Squad 4, Squad 1, and GBAC were dispatched to Pirate's Cove Marina on Horseshoe Island Rd. for a personal injury to a 62 year old male, who had his arms caught in a boat propeller. Dispatch reported that the male was free of the propeller. Squad 4 (FF Newton) had just cleared another alarm and arrived on scene within minutes from dispatch, and initiated patient care. The patient had severe lacerations to both arms, the right being the worst. Squad 1 (FF Pearsall) also arrived on scene shortly after with GBAC. The patient was packaged and transported to Upstate Hospital where the patient went immediately into surgery for five hours. After visiting with the patient on the 11th, he is in very good spirits, and is very greatful for everyone that helped out on the scene. Great job to all involved with this alarm

 

 

 

June 13th, 2002

 

Signal 80 Route 31/Gaskin Road

 

June 15th, 2002
MCFD called to action during Heavy rains
www.mcfd.org
Heavy Rains deluged Northern Onondaga County Friday resulting in approximately 50 calls for MCFD. News service reports indicate that about 4 inches of rain fell in about 9 hours, starting around 0600 hours. The first alarm came in around 0930 hours for water in a residential basement in the Battalion 1 area.

That proved to be the first of about 40 water related service calls that day. With no signs of the rain stopping, and the call volume increasing steadily in the northern part of the county, units were placed on standby in quarters. Deputy Chief's Bressette (Car 2) and Zaferakis (3) coordinated an internal dispatching system to receive the service calls from the 911 center without tone activation. Car 2, with the help of Past Deputy Chief Neuman and F/F Rubacky, handled unit assignment and dispatching while Car 3 remained in the field.

At the height of the storm, seven units were in the field handling the service calls. In the midst of the water problem calls, a handful of emergencies were also received. Car 3 came upon a car stuck in a flooded roadway in the Willowstream development (see picture) and summoned an available unit from the dispatch center. The driver appeared to be alone and ok, just stuck. It wasn't until a crew from Engine 41 (Capt. Stevens) got close enough to the car that they realized 4 additional passengers were in the car, 3 of them children. All 5 were rescued without incident by Engine 41 and Rescue 4 (F/F LaDuke). 

Engine 31 (Capt. Jennings), while investigating water problems on Ilex Lane, received a still alarm for a possible explosion in a house. Engine 31, Engine 21 (Lt. Naum), Truck 2 (Capt. Race), and Car 3 worked the alarm. Crews worked a few tense moments in locating a possible victim, but no problem or victim was found. As those units cleared from Ilex, a reported appliance fire was dispatched by 911 on Glenburn Road. Water in the basement contributed to the appliances shorting out.

Shortly after, a possible child drowning call was received from 911 in the area of the heavy flooding in Willowstream, but turned out to be only a toy sled. Lastly, as the calls were winding down, MCFD was dispatched by 911 to a reported structure fire at Wal-Mart on Rt. 31. Smoke was reported to be in the Photo Lab area and the store was being evacuated. No smoke or odor was found upon arrival, and after an interior and exterior investigation, the units cleared and were released from the storm standby.

In the span of about 6 hours, MCFD established an internal command and dispatching structure and handled about 50 alarms efficiently and professionally. All thanks to the hard work and dedication of the members who manned the apparatus. Units operating during the height of the storm were:

E11 (F/F Schweitzer), E21 (Lt. Naum), E31 (Capt. Jennings), E41 (Capt. Stevens), LD1 (F/F Kenyon), TR2 (Capt. Race), R3 (Lt. Chura), R4 (F/F LaDuke), Car 2- MCFD Command/Dispatch, Car 3- Field Operations

 

June 19th, 2002
Heavy Extrication – Morgan and Grampian
www.mcfd.org
On 6/19/02 at about 11:54 PM Engine 22 and Rescue 3 were dispatched to a head-on accident. On arrival of Chief Perkins, police advised there were 2 critical and trapped patients, one in each vehicle. Engine 22 (Lt. Brad Patkochis) handled initial patient care and vehicle hazards. Squad 2 (Lt. Chad Barnes) responded with additional EMS personnel when a request was made for a second heavy rescue company.  Lt. Patkochis was designated as Operations Officer and Lt. Barnes was designated EMS Sector. Rescue 3 (Capt. Jeff Wisely) handled extrication on one vehicle, while Rescue 4 (Lt. Dennis Corsaro) handled extrication in the second vehicle. BC Ed Wisnowski was designated the Safety Officer. Both patients were entangled in the heavily damaged vehicles, but were skillfully extricated and turned over to EMS for transport.  NAVAC Ambulance transported one patient, while NOVA Ambulance and Air 1 Air-Lifted the second. In spite of the significant entanglement, both patients (adult males) were delivered to University Hospital within the "golden hour". The cause of the accident is under investigation by Town of Clay Police and the Onondaga County Sheriff's Accident Investigation Team.

 

June 21st, 2002
Two Men Hospitalized After Crash
The Post-Standard
By Dick Clarke
A head-on collision late Wednesday on Morgan Road sent two Liverpool men to University Hospital, Clay police said. Robert C. Raymond Jr. of Morgan Road was listed in critical condition by a hospital nursing supervisor. Dennis M. Kocyba Jr. of Plantation Boulevard was listed in serious condition. The accident occurred about 11:55 p.m., just south of Grampian Road, police Capt. Tom Bottar said. Kocyba's 1990 Nissan pickup was northbound and crossed the center line and struck Raymond's 2000 Dodge sedan head-on, Bottar said. Moyers Corners fire department rescuers used a hydraulic rescue tool to extricate both men, Bottar said. Bottar said the night was clear, the road was dry and both drivers were wearing seat belts. No tickets have been issued, Bottar said, adding that the sheriff's reconstruction team is still investigating.

 

 

 

July 5th, 2002
Quiet 4th of July leads to a busy 5th
www.mcfd.org
MCFD remained relatively quiet during the 4th of July, but the 5th was a different story. Three structure alarms were sounded during the day, the last being an "all hands" trailer fire. The day started with a smoke odor in a commercial structure in Battalion 3's area at 1100 hours.  Crews responded back to the Battalion 3 area for a reported apartment fire around 1330 hours to find food on the stove.

At around 1530 hours, MCFD was dispatched to 6110 Landsend Lane for a reported fire under a mobile home with many calls received. Car 3 (D/C Zaferakis) arrived moments after dispatch to find light smoke showing and established command. A 360 size-up revealed heavier smoke pushing from under the trailer on side 3, with smoke just starting to push from the interior. Fire progression was rapid as heavier smoke was noticed pushing from the interior of side 1, at which point Command sounded a "signal 98 for now, all hands working". E-41 (Capt. Stevens) and E-11 (F/F Fritz) established primary water supply with a split lay and the crews combined to advance a primary attack line. As the crew began to enter, Capt. Stevens heard the fire flash and self-vent out a window in side 3. An aggressive interior attack by E-41 and E-11, along with E-21 (Capt. Zaferakis) on the secondary line knocked the bulk of the fire quickly. Overhaul was needed to chase the fire down the length of the underside of the trailer and was performed by E-22 (F/F R. Brown) and Belgium Cold Springs E-12 (specialed to the scene). MCFD R-3 became the primary RIT but switched to overhaul duties upon the arrival of Baldwinsville R-6 which was specialed to the scene to function as RIT. Car 2 (D/C Bressette) assumed the Operations sector while Car 1 (Chief Perkins) was the Safety Officer. Coverage was provided at the MCFD stations by Clay, Phoenix, Liverpool, and North Syracuse. The efficient and coordinated effort by all crews led to a quick operation and contained the blaze to one room, keeping the Operation a Signal 98.

 

August 6th, 2002
Rescue 4 assists Oswego County
www.mcfd.org
On Friday morning, August 2, Moyers Corners Rescue 4 was requested into the scene of a working fire in the Volney Fire District, located in Oswego County. The fire involved a large pile of rubbish inside of the old Miller plant on County Route 57, just south of the City of Fulton. Rescue 4 (FF Newton) responded into the scene with FF LaDuke, FF Kenyon, FF Jones, FF Proctor, and FF Anderson. Due to the heat and humidity, Rescue 4's crew was rotated into the building twice, to suppress the fire. Rescue 4 was picked up, and in service by 1130

 

 

 

August 6th, 2002
Car vs. Pedestrian
www.mcfd.org
The Volunteers of Moyers Corners Stas 2 & 3 were summoned at 3:04 AM for a car/ped on Morgan Rd in front of the Liverpool Golf Course. Engine 21 (Lt. Patkochis) arrived in 3 minutes and its team of 3 EMTs started assessing a trauma pt who was found lying in the road. The patient was determined to have a serious leg injury and bleeding heavily from the head. Rescue 3 (FF S. Wisely) assisted in patient packaging and the victim was loaded in a Greater Baldwinsville Ambulance and transported priority to University Hospital. Deputy Chief Bressette(C-2) had the command and was assisted by Captain Zaferakis (C-5).

 

During the incident, Squad 2 (FF/EMT Belczak) and Squad 4 ( FF Newton) assisted NOVA on a Full Arrest in the Candlelight Complex. At release time, the patient had been successfully revived thanks to all the units efforts

 

August 14th, 2002
Roof rescue on Vine Street
www.mcfd.org
Just after 1730 crews from Stations 2 and 3 and NOVA were dispatched to a reported unconscious person on a roof on Vine Street. Based on the nature of the incident, Engine 32 started first from Station 3 in case extra roof access was necessary, and Squad 2 was already enroute. Engine 32 (Capt. Race) and Squad 2 (FF Rovelli) arrived simultaneously to confirm a patient suffering heat exhaustion in and out of consciousness on the rear roof of the house. Seeing no way to safely get the patient off the roof in a controlled and timely manner, Rescue 3 (Lt. Lyons) and Truck 2 (Lt. Barnes) were requested into the scene for aerial and stokes basket support, as well as technical rope rescue support.

 

A simple stokes basket removal using the Truck 2 basket was out of the question due to space constraints between the house, trees, and power lines. Once the aerial basket was in place at the front edge of the roof, a simple fixed brake lowering system with anchor straps, a figure 8, and rescue rope was set up, using the aerial basket as an anchor point, as no other anchor point was available above the patient. Once this was all in place and the patient was secured in the stokes, the patient was lowered down a low angle ground ladder at the rear of the roof and delivered to NOVA for transport.  Once the plan fell into place, the patient was successfully removed from the roof within minutes. An excellent job done by all

 

September 8th, 2002
On Sunday, September 8th, the Moyers Corners Softball team won the Northern Section Fireman's Softball League Championship by defeating defending champions Liverpool 16-5 in the championship game.  The victory capped off a 14-1 season that saw MCFD win the regular season softball championship, also, by defeating Liverpool 13-12 in a tiebreaker.  This year's team was coached by Past Capt. Bob (Ted) Driscoll and featured some of the most active responders in the department from all 4 stations.  The roster included a deputy chief, battalion chief, two captains, and two Lts. as well as other past officers.  We are looking forward to the challenges ahead next year by our rivals and some of the new up-and-coming teams.

 

 

 

September 11th, 2002

 

MCFD pays respect with in-house tribute
www.mcfd.org
Firefighters from The Moyers Corners Fire Department came together at 8:00am on Wednesday, September 11th to pay tribute to all of those who gave their lives last year.  Our proud display of our nation's flag served as a reminder to all who passed by.  To those in the community who stopped and shared a few words, we thank you.  To those who drove by and took a moment to reflect on those lives lost, we thank you.  To those who continue to serve their communities, and this nation, we thank you.  To those families, and friends who have been touched by last year's tragedy, our prayers are with you.  God Bless America

 

 

 

September 14th, 2002
Alert neighbor and quick acting crew saves occupant
www.mcfd.org
On Saturday September 14 at about 2:59 PM an alert neighbor heard a neighbors smoke alarm sound and saw smoke coming from a mobile home in the Casual Estates Mobile Home Park and immediately called the fire department.  Crews from the MCFD were activated and upon arrival of Car 3 (Deputy Chief Mike Zaferakis), smoke was coming from the trailer.  Neighbors advised they had not seen the occupant escape.  The crew on the first in unit, Engine 41 (Lt. Zeppetello) quickly forced entry to the locked residence and found the occupant asleep and a fire on the stove extending into the cabinets.  The occupant was quickly rescued and examined by a crew from NOVA Ambulance.  The fire was quickly extinguished resulting in only minor damage to the structure.  Also assisting at the scene were Engine 11, Rescue 4, and Car 1.  Other responding units were staged and quickly returned to service.  this is another example of how a PROPERLY WORKING SMOKE DETECTOR and an ALERT NEIGHBOR can make a difference

 

 

 

September 14th, 2002

 

Mutual Aid to Seneca River House Fire

 

 

 

September 27th, 2002

 

West Taft MVA Traps One
www.mcfd.org
Moyers Corners Stations 2 & 3 were alerted shortly before 11:30 pm on Thursday, September 26 to a possible personal-injury MVA on West Taft Road near Henry Clay Blvd.  An update advised responders that injuries were confirmed in the head-on accident and that one female was pinned in her car.  Engine 22 (Lt. Patkochis) and Rescue 3 (FF. Dembowski) arrived at the same time and quickly sized-up a two car head-on and confirmed entrapment in one vehicle with another victim still in the second car.  Command (B/C J. Wiznowski) requested a second ALS bus from NAVAC and the extrication required door removal, roof roll and some dash work.  Members of Engine 22 and Rescue 3 teamed together to successfully remove the patient while Engine 32 (FF S. Wisely) was "specialed" to help remove the other driver.  B/C E Wisnowski assumed Operations while Lt Barnes had Safety until Department Chief Perkins arrival after which he assumed the role.   The cause of the MVA is reported to have been DWI

 

October 4th, 2002
Accident on county line traps one
www.mcfd.org
At 1539 hours on Thursday, Oct. 3, Moyers Corners Stations 1,4 and 3 were dispatched to a reported Signal 80 on Rt. 481 South, north of Rt. 31. Initial dispatch indicated that one vehicle had struck the guardrail and was reported as being on fire.  At roughly the same time, the Phoenix F.D. was dispatched by Oswego County to a car accident with similar information on the county line.  Moyers Corners Car 3 (D/C Zaferakis) and Battalion 1 (B/C Hall) called enroute simultaneously; Car 3 from south of the accident while Battalion 1 would respond from the north through Oswego County. 

 

1. A great job by all of the crews involved!

 

October 8th, 2002
Signal 80 – Route 31 east of the CSX RR Tracks
www.mcfd.org
At 1811, Battalion 1 was dispatched to a reported Signal 80. After some confusion, the location was determined to be on Route 31 just east of the CSX Fulton Rail Road Tracks per fire control. On arrival, Engine 11 (Lt. Fritz) found four patients to package, and two vehicles. One had heavy front-end damage and was occupied by three. The other had severe driver side damage with the occupant out of the vehicle, and a ruptured fuel tank. Engine 11's crew quickly stretched a line to protect the scene. Rescue 4 (Lt. Zeppetello) arrived shortly thereafter. The crew from Rescue 4 began packaging patients, and Squad 4 (FF Whiting) was specialed to assist Rescue 4. All crews returned to service after an hour.

 

Assisting agencies were NOVA, GBAC, Onondaga County Sheriff's Dept. and the NYS Police

 

October 22, 2002 
MCFD Goes to a Key Fob entry system

 

October 30th, 2002
Battalion 1 Signal 80 sends one to the hospital
www.mcfd.org

 

At 0915 on Monday, October 28th Moyers Corners Stations 1, 4 and 3 were dispatched to a Signal 80 involving two vehicles at the intersection of Oswego Rd. and Soule Rd.  Engine 11 (Lt. Fritz) was returning to service from a prior alarm, when they rerouted to the Signal 80. Upon arrival, Engine 11 set up command and notified Fire Control of a location change for the accident.  Involved were two vehicles, located at the intersection of Oswego Rd. and Provo Dr. One vehicle had substantial passenger side damage and the other had front-end damage.  One occupant was out of the vehicle, without complaints of injury.  The other occupant was in need of medical assistance and packaging for transport to a local hospital. The crew from Engine 11 initiated medical assistance.  Rescue 4 (Lt. Zepettello) arrived shortly after, the crew assisted with packaging of the patient.  Command held with companies on the scene, Returning rescue 3 to service. Assisting agencies were: GBAC and the Onondaga County Sheriff's Department

 

October 31st, 2002
Neighbor smells smoke, alerts occupants
www.mcfd.org

 

A residential house fire Saturday afternoon was kept to a minimum thanks to an alert neighbor and the quick actions by the MCFD.  A neighbor smelled smoke coming from a house on Benchmark Lane on Saturday, Oct. 28th.  The neighbor advised the occupants who were unaware of a problem.  MCFD was activated for the reported house fire in Box 1201 on Benchmark Lane at around 1600hrs.  Car 3 (D/C Zaferakis) arrived within minutes of dispatch to report nothing showing from a 2-story frame house.  However, he noticed a strong burning odor coming from the structure as he walked to the house.  A quick search of the house found an active fire in the upstairs bathroom on the floor and in the ceiling.  The state police on the scene advised that all occupants were out.  E41 (Lt. Zeppetello) was first on-scene and stretched an 1 3/4" line and extinguished the visible fire.  Car 2 (D/C Bressettte) assumed Operations and coordinated the overhaul of the second floor with assistance from R4 (F/F LaDuke) and E11 (F/F Kenyon).  E11's crew also handjacked the primary supply line from the hydrant, through a backyard, to E41 who was not able to lay in due to some initial confusion of the call location.  MCFD TR2 (Lt. Piraino) arrived and assisted with overhaul with the TIC and prepared to go to the roof as Operations was concerned that the fire may have been running the attic.  Fortunately, the actions by the crews knocked the fire quickly and limited its travel. 

 

Cause of the fire was attributed to the bathroom's ceiling vent fan. Additional units on the scene:E21 (F/F Anderson)- secondary water supply, crew stood fast E31 (Capt. Jennings)- staging, crew stood fast Belgium Cold Springs Truck 2- RIT (Truck was activated on intial dispatch as MCFD LD1 was out of service) BCS Car 3 (A/C Robinson)- Safety

 

November 21st, 2002
Midday Food on the Stove
www.mcfd.org

 

A neighbor reporting black smoke from the front door of a townhouse shortly before 1:00 PM Wednesday 11/20/02 prompted Moyers Corners Fire Department, with Mutual Aid from Liverpool Fire Department, response to a reported structure fire on Belmont Drive. Reports from Fire Control indicated a possible occupant still inside. Moyers Corners Battalion 2 (BC J.Wisnowski) arrived shortly after confirming light smoke from Side 1 and established Command.  Liverpool Car 1 (Chief Smith), also on scene, was assigned Operations.

 

Moyers Corners E-21 (FF Driscoll) and Liverpool E-1 (FF McGillis) arrived simultaneously, E-1 laying the initial supply line.  As E-1 crew was pulling an initial attack line, E-21 crew was forcing entry and initiated a search. The occupant, who had fallen asleep, was quickly located inside the apartment and removed from the building for evaluation by NOVA Ambulance.  No transport was necessary. The cause of the smoke condition was determined to be food on the stove.  E-31 (Lt. Chura), E-41 (Lt. Fritz), and TR-2 (Capt. Race) assisted at the scene with ventilation.  Damage was kept to a minimum due to the use of a heat gun and Thermal Imaging Camera to confirm no extension to the surrounding walls. A working smoke detector located in the basement did not activate

 

November 25th, 2002
Busy Weekend at the "Corners" 
www.mcfd.org

 

In the span of 72 hours this past weekend, the Moyers Corners Fire Department worked an incident within a quarter-mile in all directions from the Rt. 31 and Rt. 57 intersection, also known as Moyers Corners.  The first incident was a Signal 80 on Rt. 57 just south of Rt. 31 at approximately 1900 hrs on Friday night.  Originally received by the police as a Signal 79 and upgraded to an 80 several minutes later, Engine 11 (Lt. Fritz) arrived to find 2-vehicles involved with several patients.  Rescue 4 (F/F Crispin) was advised that light extrication would be needed on one vehicle.  Engine 21 (Lt. Patchokis) was special called to assist with manpower.  Car 3 (D/C Zaferakis) arrived to take the Command, while Car 2 (D/C Bressette) took Safety.  A total of (4) patients were transported with minor injuries by NOVA and GBAC.

 

About an hour later, stations 1 and 4 were activated for another Signal 80 at the same intersection.  Engine 11 (Lt. Fritz) arrived moments after dispatch to find 2 vehicles, 1 with heavy damage, involved on Rt. 31 just west of Rt. 57.  Engine 11 advised Rescue 4 (F/F Crispin) that extrication would be needed.  Engine 21 (Lt. Patchokis) was dispatched immediately for added manpower.  Car 3 took Command and Car 2 took Safety.  As Rescue 4 worked to free the driver of one vehicle, it was felt that the second vehicle would require extrication as well.  A Heavy Rescue from Belgium Cold Springs was activated, but not needed as the second driver was removed without extrication.  Both drivers were transported to area hospitals by GBAC.

 

To close out the evening, Stations 1 and 4 were activated for an EMS call on Rt. 57 just north of Rt. 31.  Squad 1 and Car 3 provided care to a toddler with a personal injury, who was transported to the hospital by Rural Metro Ambulance. Crews would have to wait until Sunday night for the incident on the last "corner" of the intersection.  At about 1700 hrs, Stations 1 and 4 were activated for a Signal 80 on Rt. 31 just East of Rt. 57.  Engine 11 (Lt. Fritz) arrived to find a car vs. tractor trailer, with heavy damage to the car.  Rescue 4 (Lt. Corsaro) extricated the driver of the car in short order.  Car 3 took the Command and Car 5 (Capt. Stevens) took Safety.  The driver of the car was transported to a city hospital by NOVA. Great job to all of the crews involved during this busy weekend

 

December 3rd, 2002
“Routine” car fire
www.mcfd.org

 

On the evening of November 2, Battalion 2 was activated for a possible vehicle fire. Engine 21 (Lt. Naum) and BC2 (J. Wisnowski) arrived together to a fully involved engine compartment fire.  Fire control was advised to "fill the box" due to the location of the vehicle, four feet from the residence and a wood staircase leading to the front door. Complicating the firefighting effort was  pick-up truck (snow covered) parked next to the involved car.

 

1. R3 (Cpt. Wisely) was called back to place booms and control the spill of gasoline.

 

After the fire was determined out, and the spill contained, crews critiqued the operations.  After discussion it was determined that teamwork and level heads played a significant role in mitigating the situation.  As each new challenge presented itself, the officer and crew assigned to the task performed as expected and one by one each challenge was dealt with.

 

We hear the saying "there is no such thing as a routine call" and this "routine" car fire call helps drive home the point.  When all was done, the vehicle involved incurred heavy damage to the engine compartment with extension to the front of the car.  The pick-up truck received some minor heat damage and no damage was sustained by the structure or wood steps

 

December 13th, 2002
98 Bedroom Fire
www.mcfd.org

 

At 1426 Thursday MCFD, with mutual aid from Liverpool FD, was activated for a possible structure fire at the Westminster Apartment Complex. Reports from the scene reported smoke showing.  Battalion Chief Jim Wisnowski arrived on the scene and reported a possible working bedroom fire.  Light smoke and no flames were visible on arrival. 

 

MCFD Engine 21 (FF Greg Shaffer) secured a water source and advanced the attack line to the front door.  Liverpool E2 provided ventilation and  MCFD Engine 31 (Lt. Stevens) checked on exposures.  North Syracuse Car 2 (John Linnertz) was assigned Operations and Liverpool Car 1 (Steve Smith) provided assistance at the scene. Limited manpower initiated a coverage move up and a Signal 98 (minor fire) all hands working . A quick knockdown prevented a second alarm response. Onondaga County Sheriffs and the County Fire Investigators interviewed a juvenile living at the residence who possibly started the fire playing with a lighter.  Relatives provided living arrangement for the family. NAVAC ambulance provided medical assessments at the scene

 

2003
Chief Steve Bressette
 First Deputy Chief: Mike Zaferakis
Second Deputy Chief Ed Wisnowski
Battalion 1 Chief EJ Stevens
Battalion 2 Chief Jim Wisnowski
Battalion 3 Chief Tim Chura
Station 1 Captain Eric Fritz
Station 2 Captains Steve Race, Chris Naum
Station 3 Captains  Ron Jennings, Dennis Lyons
Station 4 Captain Frank Crispin
Station 1 Lieutenants: Jason Perkins, Mike Kenyon
Station 2 Lieutenants: Chad Barnes, Mike G. Brown, Chris Naum, Mike Wick

 

Station 3 Lieutenants: Rick  Howard, Nick Stevens, Steve Dembowski 
Station 4 Lieutenants: Jered Zeppetello, Ed LaDuke 

 

Executive Board
 President Greg Shaffer
Vice President Steve Rubacky 
Secretary Kristy Kennedy, Assistant Secretary Mitch Goldberg 
Treasurer Jeff Bush, Assistant Treasuer Justin Rowland

 

Fire Police:  Captain Tom Delasin, Lieutenant Bob Swahn

 

Bunk Ins: Troy Pritchard, Eric Smolinski, Paul Byer II

 

 

 

Auxiliary: President Norma Guinta, Vice President Brenda Kennedy, Recording Secretary Jean Jones, Corresponding Secretary Clara Dreitlein,  Treasurer Natalie Hunter, Chaplain Lorraine Sahm, Josephine Guinta

 

 

 

New Apparatus: 2003 Saulsbury Rescue 4

 

 

 

January 20th, 2003
Truck Crew Fights Stubborn Blaze and Cold 
Jan 20, 2003 - 12:00 am
www.mcfd.org

 

On Friday, January 17th at 1959, Truck 2(Capt. Patkochis) was dispatched as the second truck on a basement fire at 1329 Cold Springs Rd in the Liverpool Fire District. An in-house crew of five volunteers responded and upon arrival provided searches of the structure which turned up negative.  The crew then assisted Liverpool Engine 3 in performing overhaul in the basement.  Weather was an issue as many local engine and rescue companies were brought in to keep crews fresh and warm.  Engine 31(Lt Howard), which had transferred to Liverpool Station 1, was moved into the scene as well and helped roll hose.  All Moyers Corners units were clear at 22:45

 

January 24th, 2003
Fatal Signal 80
www.mcfd.org

 

At 2056hrs Thursday night MCFD was dispatched to a signal 80 on Buckley Road - reported serious and possible one DOA.  E31 (Lt. Dembowski), R3 (Cpt. Lyons), E22 (Lt. Brown), and BC2 (J. Wisnowski) responded from Station 2 within seconds as training was just being completed.  The first crew was on the scene in less than 2 minutes. Even with the quick response time, first reports from the crews confirmed one DOA with 2 other patients. Reports from witnesses stated that the car with the DOA went into the path of the other vehicle. After packaging the two patients, one BLS one ALS, crews assisted the AI Team from the Onondaga County Sheriffs Department with lighting on the scene.  NOVA Ambulance and NAVAC Ambulance provided transport for the victims. D/C Wisnowski was safety and command was run by B/C Wisnowski and Chief BressetteCrews were back in service approximately 2330 hrs

 

 

 

January 28th, 2003
MCFD Squad 1 to Clay on fatal snowmobile accident
www.mcfd.org

 

On January 26th, at 2340 Moyers Corners Station 1 was activated to a Signal 80 - Snowmobile possible traumatic arrest on Verplank Rd.  Activated by Clay Car 4 (M. Redhead) due to confusion on location.  Minutes later, MCFD Station 4 was activated for Rescue 4.  Fire control advised all units responding of a possible utility pole down, and that the caller was performing CPR.  Clay Car 4 arrived on scene and confirmed the location to be in Clay's district, just east of the 481 bridge on Verplank Rd.  All MCFD units were returned to service with the exception of Squad 1 (Capt Fritz / FF Onysko).  The crew was continued in the provide EMS support to Clay Squad 2 and Rescue 3. Despite all efforts, the patient did not survive his injuries. Assisting agencies were Onondaga County Sheriff's Dept. and NAVAC

 

The start of a busy day for Fires 
Jan 29, 2003 - 01:00 am

 

1. Crews working included:

 

E41- Lt. LaDuke, E11- F/F Dreitlein Jr., E31- Lt. Stevens, Truck 2- F/F Driscoll

 

An Impressive Apartment Fire Continues the Busy Day 
Jan 29, 2003 - 02:00 am

 

Once the crews made entry into the apartment, the bulk of the fire was knocked down quickly.  Essentially, the heavy body of fire was knocked by E41's crew.  Ventilation performed by the Tower crew and by the roof crew from Ladder 1 contributed to preventing the fire travel and to the rapid extinguishment.  Also playing an important factor was the well built apartment complex including the fire stop between apartments.  Good job to all crews involved, including:

 

E41 (Lt. LaDuke),  E11 (Lt. Perkins), E21 (F/F Turiello), E31 (Lt. Stevens), TR2 (Capt. Patkochis), R4 (F/F Filow), R3 (Capt. Lyons),  Clay TR3 (Lt. Crispin), Belgium E12, Phoenix Engine, North Syracuse (RIT)

 

And to Finish the Day... 
Jan 29, 2003 - 03:00 am

 

1. Assignments were reduced quickly and crews remained on the scene to perform extensive overhaul.

 

Thanks to everyone for all of their hard work and sacrifice during an extremely demanding day

 

January 29th, 2003
House in Clay Damaged in 2 Blazes Tuesday
The Post-Standard
By Sterling A. Gray Jr.
Two of the three fires the Moyers Corners Fire Department fought Tuesday were at the same place, fire officials said. Firefighters responded to reports of fires at a town house at 8260 Honeysuckle Drive about 12:30 p.m. and again at 7 p.m., said Moyers Corners Deputy Chief Michael Zaferakis. Firefighters were still investigating the cause of the blazes Tuesday night and couldn't say whether they were related.

 

The department also responded to a fire about 3 p.m. Tuesday at Willow Stream Apartments North. The afternoon fire at Honeysuckle Drive caused minor damage but was enough to force the homeowner, whom firefighters wouldn't identify, to stay elsewhere for the night. The 7 p.m. fire caused most of its damage in the attic and upstairs bedroom, Zaferakis said. Firefighters cut a hole on the roof and peeled away siding in the rear of the town house, where flames were seen shooting out of a window, Zaferakis said. It took about 15 minutes to get the fire under****control, Zaferakis said, but firefighters were on the scene for at least two hours.

 

Fire and smoke also caused some damage to an adjoining town house, Zaferakis said. The fire burned in the wall connecting 8260 and 8262 Honeysuckle Drive. The residents of 8262 and 8264 Honeysuckle Drive were evacuated. "We came out and saw the firefighters going through our fence into the back of the house," said John Appler, of 8264 Honeysuckle Drive. His wife, Tammy, added, "We thought our house was on fire." The Applers' home wasn't damaged. Laura McBride and Mike Lesmerises were looking for an apartment when they spotted the blaze while driving on Soule Road. McBride thought the flames were some kind of decoration, then realized the building was on fire. "I just grabbed my phone and called 911," she said. "I was talking to 911 and trying to look for the address because you couldn't see the fire from the front" of the house.

 

Two firefighters complained of overexertion and were treated at the scene by Northern Onondaga Volunteer Ambulance emergency workers. No one was in the home where the fire began, Zaferakis said. Clay and Liverpool firefighters also responded to the fire. Liverpool firefighters had already been stationed at the Moyers Corners firehouse while Moyers Corners fought the fire at Willow Stream Apartments, Zaferakis said. Battling three fires Tuesday took its toll on firefighters, Zaferakis said.

 

 

 

January 30th, 2003
Willowfield Elementary MCI
www.mcfd.org

 

1. Assisting agencies were NAVAC, Rural Metro and the NYS Police Dept.

 

February 1st, 2003
John Glenn Rollover
www.mcfd.org
On Saturday, Feb. 1 at 9:08, Moyers Corners Stas 2 & 4 were dispatched to a PIAA in the area of John Glenn Blvd and Buckley Rd.  Calls were indicating 2 pts trapped in an overturned vehicle.  Engine 22 (Capt Patkochis) arrived and confirmed the dispatch of 2 trapped. Rescue 4 (Lt. Zeppetello) stabilized the car and took the windows and did a partial roof roll.  Patients were removed in 20 minutes and turned over to NOVA for care and transport.  B/C 1 (Chief Stevens) had the command and B/C 2 (Chief Wisnowski) had safety.  Units were ready by 9:54

 

 

 

February 7th, 2003
Major incident at Pinecrest Manor Apartment
www.mcfd.org

 

1. Command requested a county Haz-Mat representative to the scene and Liverpool Truck 2 for manpower.
2. It was quickly realized that a potential fire was in that space.

 

The operation evolved back into a firefighting incident upon the discovery of heat in the void space.  Coverage units were called into the scene to assist in the coordinated overhaul throughout the center portion of the building. B/C Stevens established the 3rd Floor Sector and D/C Wisnowski (MCFD Car 3) assisted with manpower and operations in the Basement.  Chief Bressette (MCFD Car 1) assisted at the command post.  The 3rd floor crews overhauled the suspect apartment and found a large amount of smoldering insulation.  The void space above the sheetrock ceiling consisted of fiberglass batte insulation as well as blown insulation.  These layers of insulation had been smoldering for possibly several days (or weeks) to create the pungent odor that the residents had smelled.  It was also creating the high levels of Carbon Monoxide that caused some residents to become ill and even seek medical attention.   Crews worked hard to eliminate all smoldering materials, including portions of the roof and exterior wall.  The county fire investigators worked to find a cause and it appears an electrical malfunction is to blame.  The alarm was cleared at around 2215 hours.

 

The unique nature of this call required a enormous time commitment by all parties involved.  On the surface, the incident appeared to take longer than necessary.  However, a methodical investigation needed to take place to determine the source of the hazard and remove it to protect life and property.  For this reason, the Chiefs of the Moyers Corners Fire Department would like to thank the following:

 

-The crews working on the scene (Moyers Corners E41, LD1, TR2, R4, R3, E21, E31; North Syracuse E6 and SQ2 and driver; Liverpool Truck 2; Clay E31; Mattydale R1 for RIT; Hinsdale E1) for their hard work and dedication during the long day.  This was the second extended operation in as many weeks that required the time commitment of several of the members.

 

-The standby crews (Moyers Corners E11 & E12 & E32; Baldwinsville LD3; Belgium E21) for sacrificing their time to make sure our district was covered.

 

-The County Haz-Mat Team for spending another long day on an incident.  This was the second extended Haz-Mat operation in the week.

 

-The 911 Center for guaranteeing that the MCFD and NSFD districts were adequately covered.

 

-The Onondaga County Sheriff Dept. for assisting with scene control and the State Police Helicopter 1H16 for providing the FLIR during the firefighting operations.

 

-The Liverpool Central School District for providing (2) buses to temporarily house the building occupants.  Thanks also to Liverpool Car 3 (D/C John Muldoon) for coordinating that operation.

 

-The NiMo representatives on scene

 

-The building occupants for their cooperation and patience

 

March 3rd, 2003
USMC calls up Station 1’s second firefighter
www.mcfd.org

 

1. Departure date:  Friday, March 7th

 

May 3rd, 2003
Battalion 1 crews restore pulse
www.mcfd.org

 

On May 3rd, 2003, Battalion 1 was alerted for an unconscious 43 y.o. female.  Additional information noted that the patient was in the bath tub, found by a 9 y.o. child.  The crew from Engine 41 arrived first to confirm a full arrest, due to the conditions, the crew split.  The AED was set up in the living room as additional crew members began CPR where the patient was found.  With the arrival of Squad 1, the patient was promptly packaged and moved to the living room.  The AED pads were placed on and no shock was advised.  CPR was continued as Rural Metro arrived and began ALS procedures.  The crews worked to restore pulses to the patient prior to transport to the ER at St. Joesph's Hospital. Job well done to those involved.  The crews showed professionalism and compassion under difficult curcumstances. Agencies involved were:  Onandaga County Sheriff's Office, a Rural Metro Crew and also a Rural Metro Supervisor.

 

March 13th, 2003
Slick roads cause several accidents
www.mcfd.org

 

Snow and falling temperatures caused area roads to become extremely hazardous during the evening of March 12th.  A light snow fell during the afternoon making the roads wet.  Once the temperatures fell below freezing and with continued snowfall, the roads became ice covered quickly, resulting in several accidents.  Units from the MCFD responded to the following accidents on March 12th:

 

Soule & Fairway East (1930)-  NOVA was initially dispatched to a car off the road in this area.  Car 2 was in the area and confirmed that it was a disabled vehicle only.  During the investigation, it was noticed that an accident had occurred further down on Soule Road near the railroad tracks.  Car 2 notified 911 of the Signal 80 and began to assess the patients with the assistance of F/F Jim G. who was passing by.  Rescue 4 packaged 3 patients while E12 checked for hazards.  NOVA & Rural Metro transported the patients.

 

Morgan & Heritage Drive (2132)- Station's 2 & 4 were dispatched to a Signal 80 in this area.  Arriving units found a 2-vehicle rear-end collision possibly requiring extrication.  Engine 22, Rescue 4, and Squad 2 worked the scene and packaged 2 patients without extrication.  Car 1 had the command with assistance from BC2 while BC1 had Safety.  NOVA was the transporting ambulance.

 

Rt. 57 & Orion Path (2215)- while returning to the station, Car 2 noticed a car facing the wrong direction in the northbound lane of Rt. 57.  While assisting this vehicle, a southbound vehicle travelling at high speed lost control, travelled into the northbound lane, and was struck by another vehicle.  Car 2 immediately called the Signal 80 in to 911 and was joined shortly thereafter by Rescue 4.  The crew packaged one driver while Engine 22 checked for hazards.  Car 2 had command with BC1 and BC2 assisting. GBAC transported the patient.

 

Rt. 57 & Balboa (2257)- Rescue 4 had just returned to quarters when the next Signal 80 occurred just north of Station 4.  Arriving units found 2 vehicles with several occupants outside of the cars.  Rescue 4, Engine 12 and Engine 22 (special) assisted with patient care and hazards.  A total of 3 patients were transported by NOVA and Rural Metro.  Car 2 had the command and BC1 had Operations.

 

Rt. 57 and John Glenn Blvd (2320)-  Rescue 4, Engine 22, and BC1 responded to a report of a vehicle of the road in this area immediately after clearing the previous call.  Units checked the area with negative results.

 

Henry Clay Blvd. and Wetzel Road (2333)- Stations 2 and 3 were dispatched to a Signal 80 in this area.  BC2 and Engine 22 went enroute immediately but were delayed due to a stuck train at the crossing on Wetzel Road.  Further details were not available.

 

To cap the night, Stations 3 and 2 were called to North Syracuse for a working fire around 0300 hours.  Further information was not yet available.

 

For extremely dangerous conditions, all crews involved worked professionally and safely.  Nice Job!  (hopefully that will be the last wintry night until next year!).

 

March 16th, 2003
Southern companies to North Syracuse
www.mcfd.org

 

When the accident rush subsided on Wednesday evening, the volunteers of Moyers Corners were not done as a fire broke out in a two-story residential structure on S. Main St.  in the village of North Syracuse shortly after 2AM.  North Syracuse Car 1 arrived with smoke showing and made the request for an engine from Station 3.  Engine 32 (Lt. Dembowski) arrived to find heavy fire extending from the basement into the 1st Floor.  They advanced  a 2" line and knocked down the fire's extension. 

 

When the request for another engine company came, the overnight crew at Station 2 bid on the call and responded with Engine 22.  Engine 22 (Lt. Barnes) arrived and went to work on the second floor to do overhaul and managed to find more fire in the walls.  Additional companies from Clay, Hinsdale and East Syracuse provided North Syracuse with aid.  Moyers Corners companies were inservice by 6AM.  After almost 3 years without a major fire, North Syracuse has made up ground with several major jobs since January 1st

 

April 7th, 2003
Major ice storm hits Central New York
www.mcfd.org

 

1. By the end of the weekend, the MCFD answered nearly 170 calls in its district.

 

The storm began Thursday night, April 3rd, and struck Oswego County exceptionally hard.  Due to the widespread damage, fire departments throughout the state were called to Oswego County.  MCFD Truck 2 staffed the City of Fulton F.D. Station 1 from Friday afternoon (4/4) to Saturday morning (4/5) and answered several alarms.  It was during that time that the call volume at MCFD began to increase. 

 

1. Listed below is a breakdown of the calls received from Friday afternoon to midnight Sunday in the MCFD district:

 

• Water Problems=59
• Wires Down=31
• Pole Fires=13
• Citizen Assist=13
• Fire Alarms=11
• Fume (gas/burning odor)=8
• Outdoor Fire=5
• Reported Structure Fire=4
• Car Accident=2
• Chimney Fire=1
• Explosion=1
• EMS=19

 

All total, there were 167 calls in the MCFD district from Friday afternoon to midnight Sunday.  There were also several mutual aid calls, including the response of E32 to a working structure fire in the village of Liverpool with coverage by E22.  The inclusion of mutual aid calls brings the total call volume to approximately 180.

 

The weekend was very taxing on the CNY residents and our neighbors in the Town of Clay.  The members of the MCFD once again rose to the occasion and provided top notch service, all with very little sleep.  A big Thank You goes out to the crews that spent countless hours manning the firehouses (MCFD and in Oswego County) and answering the non-stop calls.  Your dedication and service is greatly appreciated!!!

 

April 14th, 2003
MCFD conducts burn-down
www.mcfd.org
The MCFD held a burn-down on Saturday morning, April 12th on property in the 7500 block of Morgan Road.  A house and barn located on the property were burned to make way for new construction.  Crews were able to conduct valuable search and rescue drills and roof work at the house for the two weeks leading up to the burn.  Also during that time, both the house and barn were prepared for the burn-down by opening walls and cutting holes in the floors to allow for fast fire spread.  The efforts paid off as both structures were leveled in relatively quick time.  Crews arrived on the site at 0700 hours Saturday and the first fire was lit at 0800.  Thanks to the setup work, cooperating weather, and the coordinated efforts of the crews, we were picked up and eating lunch back at Station 2 by 1200 hours! 

 

Pictures of the event will be posted soon.  Thanks to all of the crews who participated in the burn-down, including:

 

• E21 (exposure protection & suppression)
• E22 (exposure protection & suppression, primary water supply)
• E31 (exposure protection & suppression, secondary water)
• TR2 (Aerial Master Streams)
• R4 (RIT)
• E41/LD1/R3/C1 (responding units)
• SQ2 (EMS)
• C2 (IC), BC1 (Ignition), BC2 (Safety), BC3 (exposure)

 

April 21st, 2003
Truck and Rescue to Tri-County Mall
www.mcfd.org

 

Units from the surrounding area were dispatched on Wednesday morning at 8:53AM to the Tri-County Mall in the Baldwinsville Fire District for a reported structure fire.  Baldwinsville Car 2 arrived and confirmed a smoke condition in the structure and requested 2 additional Trucks and Engines.  Moyers Corners Truck 2 (Capt Patkochis) answered the alarm and arrived on scene after a 11-minute trek.  Truck 2 laddered Side 1 with the Tower and used its TIC (Thermal Imagining Camera) to check for fire in the roof area Rescue 3 (Lt Howard) was fully staffed and bid on the alarm and was added to the Staging assignment.  Once the source of the smoke was found, a wall fire, Rescue 3 was put in charge of ventilation.   North Syracuse E-6 relocated to Moyers Corners Station #3 until units went available around 10:45

 

April 22nd, 2003
Daytimers battle Liverpool house fire
www.mcfd.org

 

The daytime "box" system has always proven to bring Liverpool and Moyers Corners Fire Departments together on any structural alarms in either district for years past and present and allows for sufficent staffing to handle jobs efficently.  Tuesday, April 22 was no different.   The third alarm of the day to Liverpool brought Engines 22 and 32 mutual aid on a house filled with high levels of CO on S. Roosevelt Ave. in the village.  Command held with Liverpool Eng 1, Truck 2 and MCFD Eng 22 (FF M. Brown).  Eng 32 was asked to stand-by in quarters at Liverpool Station 1. E-32 (Capt Lyons) was just getting settled at Sta 1 when Liverpool and Moyers Corners Stas 2 & 3 were dispatched to reported bedroom fire at 131 Meyers Ln, roughly a .5 mile from Station 1.  E-32 launched and arrived onscene in two minutes with heavy smoke showing from a ranch house.  E-22 clearing the other alarm arrived a minute later and the combined 9 man crew stretched a 1.75" and 2" attack line and vented side 4 of the structure.  Liverpool Car (Chief Loucks) signalled a working fire and interior operations began.  Additional Liverpool Units arived as well as Moyers Corners Eng 31 (FF Houde) and the fire was placed under control in roughly 15 minutes.  Batt Chief Wisnowski had Operations while Batt Chief Stevens had Safety.  Units picked up and cleared in 90 minutes.  North Syracuse provided coverage for empty MCFD stations. The daytime alarms will continue and as seen today a good working relationship bewteen the busiest volunteers in the county will lead to effective fire protection for both districts

 

May 8th, 2003
Engine 12 to Oswego County on a Signal 80 481NB
www.mcfd.org

 

On Wednesday, May 7th at 2140, Moyers Corners Battalion 1 was dispatched to a Signal 79 possible 80 NB Rt. 481 at the Rt. 31 Exit.  Shortly after dispatch, Oswego County nofified Onondaga that the Phoenix FD was on Rt. 481 NB on a reported Signal 80.  Car 2 (M. Zaferakis) committed to NB 481 to investigate, holding Rescue 4 and Engine 12 on Rt. 31.  Reports by Oswego County confirmed the Signal 80 was on 481 North of the Rt. 264 exit in Oswego County.  Per Car 2, Engine 12 responded to the scene to assist with scene safety and hazards, while Rescue 4 was returned to service. Once arrived, Engine 12 stretched a 1 3/4" line to protect the scene and Car 2 assisted with the command structure.  Units were on the scene for approximately 2 hrs.  Three vehicles were involved with one transport by Mentor Ambulance

 

May 15th, 2003
Companies respond to Signal 98 – Honeysuckle Drive
www.mcfd.org

 

Thursday May 15th at 1208, Moyers Corners was activated for a fire in a townhouse on Honeysuckle Drive. Reports of smoke and fire coming out of a vent on the rear of the structure.  On arrival, Truck 2 (FF Rovelli) laid in from a hydrant across from the adress. Battalion 3 (T. Chura) arrived on the scene and assumed command. Engine 32 (Lt Howard) and Engine 41 (FF Watson) arrived together. Engine 32 secured the hydrant Truck 2 had laid in from, then stretched a 1 3/4" line off TK 2 to side 3 of the structure. Truck 2's crew forced entry and to find a smoke odor. Engine 41 had the address behind Truck 2 and stretched a 1 3/4" line to side 1. Companies reported a small fire on the exterior with possible extension. Battalion 2 (J. Wisnowski) assumed interior while Squad 1 (Capt Fritz) responded and assumed safety.  Engine 22 (FF Moe) and Engine 11 (Lt Kenyon) found a secondary water supply and assisted with overhaul. Clay Engine 31 (Lt Crispin) found a third hydrant on Soule Road gaining access to the structure through the 6' wood fence. Rescue 3 (FF Goettel) staged on Fairway Drive East, the crew assisted with overhaul.  Damage was limited to the areas around the vent. Onondaga County Fire Investigators were on scene, and the cause is under investigation. Companies remained on the scene for approximately 2 1/2hrs

 

June 4th, 2003
Signal 98 – Casual Estates mobile home park
www.mcfd.org

 

1. The Onondaga County Fire Investigation Team assisted with cause determination

 

June 8th, 2003
A long awaited welcome home for local soldiers
www.mcfd.org

 

The USMC Company B of the 8th Tank Battalion from Mattydale, NY were welcomed home Saturday morning.  On lookers cheered as returning Marines marched up Molloy Road from the Mattydale firehouse.  The Moyers Corners Fire Department and neighboring Phoenix Fire Department had volunteer firefighter that were reservists with the 8th  Tank Battalion.  Sgt. Thomas Arnold is a firefighter with the Moyers Corners Fire Department out of Station 1.  While, Sgt. John McDonald is a firefighter with the Phoenix Fire Department.   The Moyers Corners and Phoenix Fire Department's coordinated to have an American flag fly high above Molloy Road when the soldiers arrived home.  MCFD Ladder 1 (110') and Phoenix Truck 1 (75') proudly displayed an American flag 75' above on lookers.  From Mattydale Engine 3 (50' TeleSquirt) a USMC flag was hung.  Along Molloy Rd was also Phoenix Engine 4 and the Mattydale fire apparatus. The 8th Tank Battalion was escorted into Mattydale by numorous police agencies from thoughout the area.  A total of over 40 vehicles lined Rt. 81, travelling north to Mattydale.  MCFD Squad 1 and apparatus from the Hinsdale Fire Department joined that escort to bring our local soldiers home.   Soldiers unloaded from four commercial buses into formation, as the march up Molloy Rd started the crowd broke out in cheer for our local heros. All but one Marine returned home from the 8th Tank Battalion.  On March 22, Lance Cpl. Eric Orlowski, 26, of Buffalo was killed in a noncombat incident.  Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Orlowski family.

 

A special thanks to the Mattydale Fire Department and its members for helping this happen

 

June 9th, 2003
Morning Tool Job
www.mcfd.org

 

1. Car 3 (D/C Wisnowski) was the Safety officer during the extrication

 

June 14th, 2003
Broken water line helps firefighters douse basement fire
www.mcfd.org

 

At approx 2:10 AM on Tuesday, June 10, Moyers Corner's units were dispatched for a "reported fire down the street" on Dewline Rd in the Station 2 area.  A second caller confirmed the address as 20 Dewline, and that the resident was out and the house to be full of smoke.  The overnight crew abroad Eng 21(Capt Patkochis) and C-1 (Chief Bressette) arrived to find smoke showing from a 2-story wood frame.  Eng 21's crew stretched the 200' line inside the structure and extinguished a fire in the basement.  The heat level was such in the basement that soldering on a water line had melted causing the line to act as a sprinkler device.  This kept the fire in check until units arrived.  Units filling the assignment: Engine 41 (Capt Crispin) had the second line; Engine 31 (Capt Jennings) second water supply; Truck 2 (Lt Naum) searches, ventialation, overhaul; Rescue 4 (Lt Zepetello) searches; Ladder 1 (FF Schaffer) RIT.  C-1 had command, C-2 (Chief Zaferakis) had Safety and B/C-1 (Chief Stevens) had interior.  Crews cleared by 4:45 AM

 

June 19th, 2003
Mock DWI Accident Looks Real
The Post-Standard
This report was submitted by Meghan Piper of the Liverpool school district.  Liverpool High School recently held its annual Mock DWI demonstration in the school parking lot.  Members of the senior class attended the demonstration, held the day before the Senior Ball, that deals with the aftermath of a car accident caused by someone drinking and driving.  After the demonstration, plaques were presented to the New York State Police and the Moyers Corners Fire Department. Both organizations have helped make the Liverpool High School Mock DWI demonstration a success over the years. DURING LIVERPOOL High School's Mock DWI demonstration, plaques were presented to the New York State Police and the Moyers Corners Fire Department. Taking part in the presentation are (from left) Liverpool High School Executive Principal Terry MacNabb, New York State Trooper Jack Keller, Liverpool Superintendent John Cataldo, Moyers Corners Fire Department Battalion 2 Chief James Wisnowski and Liverpool Director of School Security and Safety Mike McCarthy. Color.

 

 

 

June 23rd, 2003
Spencerport Fire Department Parade Award
www.mcfd.org

 

On Thursday, June 12, 2003, the MCFD participated in the Spencerport Vol. Fire Dept.(Monroe County) Annual Fireman's Parade and Carnival. Even rainy weather could not keep the large crowds away cheering on all the
participating departments. The Corners was greeted with many cheers as they entered the viewing area. The members making the trip were presented with the award for longest distance responding (1 hr. 15 min. trip).
The Moyers Corners Fire Dept. would like to thank the Spencerport Vol. Fire Dept. for their hospitality

 

June 26th, 2003
Clay Board Appoints Six New Firefighters
The Post-Standard
The appointments of several new volunteer firefighters have been approved by the Clay Town Board. Martin J. McMahon was appointed to the Clay Volunteer Fire Department. Morgan Dair, Edward Haaxma, Robert Marshall, Heather Beardley and Adam Croman were named to the Moyers Corners Fire Department.

 

 

 

July 10th, 2003
MCFD mourns the loss of its department founder
www.mcfd.org

 

The founder of the Moyers Corners Fire Department died today, at the age of 86. Ken Brand over fifty-five years ago, stood helplessly, watching Lyman Melvin's garage burn down. He waited for Clay and Liverpool Fire Departments to arrive. The Liverpool Fire Department stopped at the town line, telling Ken that they could not cross because they did not have the insurance coverage. As everyone watched the garage burn down, Ken said, "By God, tomorrow we will start our own fire department." - the beginning to the Moyers Corners Fire Department.

 

Ken went from house to house looking for men interested in being members, and the first meeting was held in a cow barn with about fifteen men in all. After several meetings and a pubic hearing with the Town of Clay, the search was on for a fire truck. The first engine was a 1922 American LaFrance, purchased for $500 from a man that stopped at the gas station with car trouble. The man was from Buffalo and needed to get home to sell the used fire truck. Ken ran home and called four members, who agreed on the purchase of the truck.

 

The members now felt they were a true fire department, and began planning a new firehouse. The truck was being housed at the gas station until a firehouse could be built. The new building was completed in the fall of 1948, and their truck had a new home. Four years later, 1952 progressed into a landmark year for the department. The department had been operating for four years with the 1922 American LaFrance and an old oil tanker converted into a water truck. The department this year also purchased its first new truck, a 1952 GMC pumper. In addition to the tanker and the pumper, the Ladies Auxiliary purchased the department's first ambulance. All three pieces proved to be useful for answering approximately twenty-five fire calls and thirty ambulance calls. Later that same year, the GMC was moved to Melvin's barn on Rt 57, eventually to become Moyers Corners Station 2, located where the Wegman's is today. In 1962, the Department purchased a new engine, Engine 1. Also at that time, Onondaga County started Fire Dispatch Service allowing for radios to be placed in Ken Brand's car and the GMC pumper. The members could be dispatched through Fire Control to their Plectrons. This increased the response rate a great deal.

 

Today, the department has approximately eighteen hundred calls each year, having an active membership roster of one hundred and twenty members. With four stations and land for a fifth, the department has seven Engines, one Ladder, one Ladder-Tower, two Rescues, four Squads, one HazMat vehicle, and six Chief's vehicles. Ken Brand has remained active with the department throughout the years, and will be deeply missed. It is our hope to continue his life's work to keep our community, friends and neighbors safe in a manner that would make him proud. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Brand family

 

By Greg Shaffer and Steve Bressette

 

July 15th, 2003
In Memorium: Ken Brand, Sr. MCFD Founder
www.mcfd.org

 

Funeral services were held July 14th at Moyers Corners Station 1 for the late Ken Brand Sr. - "Chief".  Members of the Moyers Corners Fire Department, and of other local departments joined Ken's family and friends.  Services were conducted by Father Finnegan, with special readings from Ken's granddaughter - Michelle, President Greg Shaffer, Past Chief Chet Fritz, and Chief of Department Steve Bressette.    A full department procession was lead by Engine 11, used to carry the "Chief" to Pine Plains Cemetery on Henry Clay Blvd.  Moyers Corners Ladder 1 and Truck 2 bridged the entrance to the cemetery with an American Flag.  A "last call" was dispatched by Onondaga County Fire Control in honor of the "Chief". A catered reception was held immediately following the services at Moyers Corners Station 1.  This gave the opportunity to reflect on the many accomplishments of Ken Brand Sr.

 

A special thanks goes out to everyone involved

 

Eulogy by Greg Shaffer:

 

1. This is where he expanded his knowledge of character, leadership, citizenship, and other core values.

 

     On Nov 9, 1947, Lyman Melvin's barn burned to the ground. Another hat was needed and Ken put on the hat of a volunteer firefighter. Ken put those skills he learned 17 years earlier to the test.  This time he took off his hat and asked 40 men to give at least $25.00 each to buy a fire truck, and in less than 12 months, they had a truck and a station to put it in.  This hat had to be passed several times in the earlier years to pay the bills.  For this effort he earned the title of Chief of the Moyers Corners Fire Department. He wore that hat for 55 years.

 

1. His uniform was now complete.

 

     Uncle Ken your hat, the sparkle in your eye and your smile will never be forgotten. I will end with a quote from Albert Schweitzer that to me sums up Ken's life:   "You must give sometime to your fellowman.  Even if it's a little thing, do something for others - something for which you get no pay  but the privilege of doing it."

 

So long, Chief

 

Gregory Shaffer
President
Moyers Corners Fire Department

 

Eulogy by Past Chief Chet Fritz

 

Today we gather to celebrate the life of Chief Ken Brand Sr.- not his passing. He was an exceptional man who gave his all to protect the citizens of his community from the ravages of fire. Chief Brand's generosity knew no bounds. When the fire department was born, he, along with the other charter members, reached deep into their pockets and paid the heating bills for the "old fire barn", as it was known in the late 1940's and beyond.

 

He also made sure the rigs were fueled and repaired. This was done at Brand's Truck Stop. Let there be no mistake, he lost a lot more money than he made from the fire department on this, another of his good works.  While we are on the topic of money-Ken had one pants pocket for fire department donations and the other contained his personal funds. From time to time he would count the fire department money and if he felt it was not enough, he transfers funds from the other pocket!

 

    The money and "sweat equity" that he and the other charter members contributed to building the original fire station has not been forgotten, but possibly many of our newer members are not aware of their sacrifices. Ken loved dogs. I remembered "Brownie" along with other of his dogs riding as the"chiefs aide" to many a fire. My suspicion is that his dogs could run a fire as well as most fire chiefs.

 

On the fire ground he was a taskmaster and safety conscious chief who did not want his men injured. At one fire, the late Phil Guinta - a rather large individual by any standard - failed to wear his helmet. Chief Brand went over, jammed it on his head, and the only reason it didn't go to his shoulders was because his ears blocked it. Three fire fighters had to pry it off. Ken also gave two sons to the fire department - the late Philly Brand, and Kenny Jr. What a foundation he has provided us with!

 

From the burning of Lyman Melvin's barn, when we had no fire department, to four stations with land for a fifth, twenty-some pieces of rolling stock, to over a million dollar yearly budget and a Class III ISO rating. Chief Ken Brand Sr. - you left a rock solid foundation and a legacy which will never fade. Your shoes will never be filled. Today you walk with God.

 

Hale and farewell Chief Brand. Rest In Peace.

 

Chet Fritz/Past Chief

 

Eulogy by Bob Michelson

 

A vast emptiness has stricken the hearts of all Moyers Corners Firefighters, past and present, with the passing of Chief Ken Brand Sr.

 

     While the profound efforts of 'The Chief' in starting what has become one of the largest, busiest, and well-trained all-volunteer fire departments in the state are quite well documented in department history, the other side of Ken Brand is not voiced as often.

 

     While it takes a man of great determination to initiate a grassroots effort to develop an entity such as Moyers Corners Fire Department, there was a side of Ken Brand that made him the heart of Moyers Corners.  The Chief was a man who cared deeply for others, while downplaying his own importance.  Ken was a friend to every member of this department, and tried to know everything he could about each member,  just in case the time arose when that member needed help or encouragement.  He was, for many, 'Father Brand', there whenever you needed him and when you least expected him, with a quiet word of support, a pat on the shoulder, a smile, or a knowing wink of his eye.

 

     Any member who sat and talked with Ken was the better for it.  A quiet, unassuming tower of strength of the human condition.  It never ceased to amaze that Ken would remember every little detail of the personality and psyche of every firefighter he talked to, just so he could interact with and support that firefighter in an individual way.

 

Moyers Corners has lost more that its' founding father and first chief, it has lost a large part of its' heart and soul, a loss that will never be replaced, a loss that will take a great effort to overcome.

 

     We will miss Ken Brand deeply, 'The Chief' and father.

 

     By the way, God, if you are listening, if there isn't a fire department in heaven, you'd best be lining up apparatus and turnout gear because Ken Brand will be starting one!  And God, take care of our Chief

 

July 15th, 2003
Moyers Corners Remembers Its Founder
The Post-Standard
By Pedro Ramirez III
More than 120 Moyers Corners firefighters and friends attended the burial Monday of the fire department's founder and first chief, Ken Brand Sr., who died last week at age 86. "He was a sweetheart of a man," said Gregory Shaffer, Moyers Corners Fire Department president. Firefighters from Belgium-Cold Springs and Phoenix attended the service. Others from as far away as Canada and Florida also attended, Shaffer said. The ceremony began at the fire station on Route 57, just north of Route 31, with a 45-minute service during which Shaffer; Steven Bressette, the department's current chief; and others eulogized Brand. After that, firefighters moved Brand's casket onto a firetruck. In a snaking procession that included at least a dozen fire engines, ladder trucks and chief's vehicles, the casket was taken to Pine Plains Cemetery in Clay. After a brief graveside service, friends and family returned to the fire station for lunch. "Moyers Corners has lost more than its founding father and first chief," said Bressette during his eulogy. "It has lost a large part of its heart and soul, a loss that will never be replaced."

 

Department officials say a garage fire more than 55 years ago motivated Brand to start a fire department. The department recounts the incident on its Web site at www.mcfd.org. The way the story goes, on Nov. 9, 1947, Brand waited for neighboring firefighters to arrive. But Liverpool firefighters told Brand they couldn't cross their municipal lines because insurance didn't cover it. As people watched the garage burn down, Brand was heard saying, "By God, tomorrow we will start our own fire department." Brand went house to house looking for volunteers. He helped find the department's first fire engine, a 1922 American LaFrance, purchased for $500. The department's first firehouse was completed in the fall of 1948. In 1952, the department responded to 25 fire calls and 30 ambulance calls. Today, Moyers Corners responds to about 1,800 calls a year, officials say.

 

July 27th, 2003
New Rescue sees first cut
www.mcfd.org

 

Moyers Corners Units were dispatched to a motor vehicle accident in the area of Soule Rd and Rt. 31 at 12:55 on Thursday, July 24th.  B/C 2 (Patkochis) arrived and confirmed one car into a tree with the driver trapped.  Crews from Rescue 4 (Lt Laduke) and Eng 22 (FF Brown) teamed up to extricate the driver in less than 10 minutes.  GBAC requested a Medivac and Mercy Flight responded to the landing zone at Soule Rd Middle School.  Eng 12 (FF Delong) and Sq 1 (Lt Kenyon) handled vehicle hazards.  C-3 (D/C Wisnowski) had operations while C-2 (D/C Zaferakis) handled the landing zone. 

 

After several daytime training sessions with the new Rescue, the execution of the cut by members of Rescue 4 and Eng 22 went very smoothly.  Units cleared by 13:45

 

July 27th, 2003
One and one to Oswego County
www.mcfd.org

 

The second of two major fires in southern Oswego County on the morning of July 17th brought E-41 and Truck 2 to assist Phoenix in dousing a older two-story wood frame house north of the village.  E-41(FF Filow) was transferred to Phoenix Sta 1 for several hours, while Truck 2 (Chief Patkochis) was brought into the scene.  The Truck crew conducted several hours of overhaul due to fire spreading into the void spaces.  All units were back in Onondaga County by 12:30

 

August 1st, 2003
Drill with Air 1
www.mcfd.org

 

The Onondaga County Sheriff's Helicopter, Air-1, recently held a demonstration for the MCFD members.  Flight Medic Pat Herrick reviewed the helicopter and it's capabilities, as well as patient loading, approaching the aircraft, and landing zones.  Members gained valuable information on the procedures when using a Medevac.  The drill was in anticipation for an upcoming large-scale MCFD drill that Air-1 will also be participating in. Thanks to Pilots Deputy Paul Brennan and Deputy Jim Farley and Medic Herrick for a very informative drill!

 

August 12th, 2003
MCFD to conduct LHS scenario
www.mcfd.org

 

1. Lessons learned from the scenario will better prepare the MCFD and the LHS staff for potential emergencies at the High School.

 

August 18th, 2003
Crews battle vehicle fire
www.mcfd.org

 

Moyers Corners Stations 1 and 4 were dispatched to a vehicle fire on Friday August 15th at approximately 1130 hours.  Initial reports placed the fire on Rt. 31 near the Great Northern Mall, but further information placed it at the McDonald's on Rt. 31.  Engine 12 (Lt. Kenyon) was first out and arrived to find a fully involved SUV.  The crew deployed a 1 3/4" attack line (as the tailgate pistons were exploding) and made quick work of the fire.  Engine 41's crew, led by Lt. LaDuke, assisted with opening up the vehicle.  Damage was confined to the entire passenger area

 

August 18th, 2003
Massive blackout strikes northeast
www.mcfd.org

 

Thursday night, August 14th, was supposed to be a mock "disaster" at the Liverpool High School.  Several suprises were planned for the crews throughout the drill.  However, one major suprise struck before the drill could even start.  At approximately 1600 hours, the northern portion of Onondaga County, including much of the MCFD protection area, lost power.  It was soon realized that the blackout covered much of the Northeast.

 

MCFD stations were manned quickly and the crews prepared for the worst.  Fortunately, the call volume remained light as there were only a couple of blackout-related alarms.  By around 2100 hours, the power was restored to much of the area and the crews returned home. The MCFD is no stranger to large-scale emergencies (2002 Flooding, 2003 Ice Storm).  Once the blackout hit, crews knew to man the stations (no activation was needed).  The dedication of the MCFD crews was apparent again during this potential disaster.  Thanks!

 

And by the way, contrary to popular rumor, the drill instructors for the LHS scenario (D/C Zaferakis and Capt. Race) did not plan the power outage as part of the drill!  At least, the outage wasn't supposed to be that big!

 

August 29th, 2003
Clay extrication
www.mcfd.org
Clay Fire/Rescue units and Moyers Corners Eng 22 were dispatched to a MVA with entrapment on Morgan Rd just north Rt 31 on Friday August 29 at 13:35.  Clay C-3 (Chief Redhead) confirmed 1 entrapped upon arrival.  Crews from Clay E-21, R-3 and MC E-22 (FF Croman) worked to remove the patient for 25 minutes.  The removal process included doors, B-post and Dash work.  Moyers Corners units cleared in an hour.  Batt 2 (Chief  Patkochis) had Command, Clay C-3 assumed Operations and C-2 (Chief Zaferakis) was Safety

 

August 29th, 2003
House fire in Station 4 area
www.mcfd.org
Units from  all 4 Moyers Corners Stations were dispatched at 23:24 hours on August 20th for a structure fire in the area of Chariot Ln and Lucan Rd.  Batt 2 (Chief Patkochis) arrived to find smoking showing from a split level residential with fire in the rear.  Eng 41(Capt Crispin) and Batt 1 (Chief Stevens) deployed a line into the basement and found fire in the ceiling.  Truck 2 (Lt Driscoll) split crews, one conducting the search and the second opening side 3 and finding fire traveling vertically in the outside wall.  Additional Eng companies (11, 21, 31) stretched lines and stopped the advance of the fire.  Rescue 3 assisted in truck work.  Liverpool Sq-3 was specialed as the FAST Company.   C-2 (Chief Zaferakis) had Safety, Batt 1 had the Interior sector and Batt 2 had Command.  Units were picked up by 01:15

 

August 29th, 2003
Apartments destroyed by fire – companies respond mutual aid
www.mcfd.org
On 08/25/03, 12:45 pm the Baldwinsville Fire Department was activated for a possible structure fire in a multi-unit apartment complex - Village Green Apartments in Van Buren. Initial units reported heavy smoke and fire from the cockloft. The "99" signal was quickly sounded. Activating many area departments for mutual aid. Companies from Moyers Corners that assisted on the scene were: Truck 2 (aerial defensive operations) Rescue 3 (search and rescue) and Engine 12 relocated to Baldwinsville Station 1 to cover for any additional alarms. Baldwinsville Fire Dept firefighters were assisted at the scene by firefighters from Belgium-Cold Springs, Pheonix, Moyers Corners, Liverpool, Taunton, Fairmount and Lakeside departments. The Greater Baldwinsville Ambulance Corps and Northern Onondaga Volunteer Ambulance also were at the scene.  Approximately 40 people were left homeless by the fire that destroyed an eight-unit building and caused minor damage to an adjacent eight-unit building

 

September 22nd, 2003
Church working fire
www.mcfd.org
MCFD and Liverpool F.D.'s were activated for a reported fire in the area of Morgan Rd. and Wetzel Rd. on Friday 9/12 at approximately 1400 hours.  A passer-by dialed 911 to report smoke pouring from the church in that area.  Additional calls placed the location of the church at 4268 Wetzel Road, near the entrance to Liverpool High School, and were reporting smoke and fire showing.  Engines 21 (Lt. Brown) and 22 (Capt. Naum), having just returned from an Alarm Activation,  launched immediately from quarters.  E22 arrived first to find heavy smoke showing from the below-grade classroom area.  E22 laid in from the nearest hydrant while E21 maintained that water supply.  Capt. Naum took the initial command and struck a Signal 99.  Car 2 (D/C Zaferakis) arrived moments later and assumed Command.  Capt. Naum took the Interior Sector as the crews from E21 and E22 started their push into the "basement".  Ladder 1 (Lt. Kenyon) assisted the handlines with overhaul.  The bulk of the fire was knocked down quickly and was confined to the roof section of one classroom.  Support units included:

 

Engine 41 and Liverpool Engine 1- secondary water supply and overhaul

 

Liverpool Truck 2- Exterior Overhaul of roof area

 

Engine 31/Rescue 3- Ventilation

 

Clay Car 3- Command Assitance

 

The quick response of the crews kept the fire damage to a minimum in a very large structure.  Incidentally, as crews were picking up, North Syracuse F.D. and MCFD Stations 2 and 3 were activated for a house fire in the NSFD district.  NS Car 1, having just cleared the MCFD alarm, arrived to find heavy smoke from a Cape-style house and struck a Signal 99- their 2nd within 24 hours.  MCFD Engines 21 and 31 worked at that fire.  MCFD crews operated at 3 working fires within 24 hours and there would be another 99 before the weekend was out (stay tuned)!

 

September 23rd, 2003
Electrical room fire proves challengine for crews
www.mcfd.org
At 15:32 hours on Sept 23rd, Liverpool and Moyers Corners volunteers were dispatched to a reported fire in the area of Gaylord Brothers on Morgan Rd.  After some confusion on which building was involved, Batt 2 (B/C Patkochis) arrived to find smoke showing from the 3/4 corner of a large manufacturing complex on Steelway Blvd South.  A RIT company was requested and North Syracuse E-6 was dispatched.  Eng 31 (Lt Howard) and Eng 21(FF Rowland) arrived and found a fire in the electrical switching station inside the building.  NIMO was requested with a rush as companies kept the fire in check with dry chemical extinguishers.  Ld-1(Lt Kenyon) and Truck 2 (Lt Driscoll) took to the roof to determine extension which proved negative.  Liverpool Eng-1 and Eng 41 ( Lt Zepetello) provided water supply.  Once the electrical supply to the plant was secured, overhaul with water was begun.  North Syracuse C-1 (Chief Linnertz) had Operations while Batt 1 (B/C Stevens) had Safety.  Units were picked up in 2 hours

 

September 23rd, 2003
Signal 99 in the Station 2 apartments
www.mcfd.org
All Moyers Corners stations were dispatched at 1:22 on Sunday, Sept 14th to a "reported fire" in the area of Galbraith Ct in the Tudor Townhome section of the Station 2 area.  As units were staffing several more calls were recieved and Car 1 (Chief Bressette) arrived and found heavy fire showing from the second fire on 17 Galbraith Ct.  Eng 21(Capt Naum) arrived with a 5-man crew and deployed the 200 ft 1.75' line to the second floor.  Eng 41 (Capt Crispin) stretched the back-up line while Rescue 4 (Lt Zeppetello) started searches.  The three interior crews faced heavy fire involvment on the second floor as valiant efforts were made to search as it was unknown if the family residing had exited.  Searches proved negative. Truck 2 (Capt Race) went to the roof and opened several holes to ventlate and check for extension in the common cockloft.  Ld-1 (Capt Fritz), Eng-31 (Capt Jennings), and Rescue 3 (FF G) performed overhaul and Liverpool Truck 2 was "specialed" as the RIT company.  Batt 2 (B/C Patkochis) had the operations, Batt 3 (B/C Chura) assumed Safety and Batt 1 (B/C Stevens) assisted the Command. A suspect has been arrested in connection with the fire which was the result of a domestic dispute

 

September 23rd, 2003
Signal 99 church fire in Station 2 area
www.mcfd.org
On the afternoon of Sept 12, Moyers Corners units were dispatched to an Automatic Fire Alarm off Henry Clay Blvd.  Eng 21, 22 and Ld 1 responded and found a false activation and units were returned.  As Eng 22 returned to quarters, Liverpool and Moyers Corners units were dispatched to a report of "smoke coming from the roof of a church at Wetzel and Morgan Rd".  Eng 22 (Capt Naum) launched with a 3-man crew and arrived in 4 minutes and found fire and smoke showing from the classroom wing.  The combine crew of 22 and Eng 21 (Lt Brown) started an interior attack with 2 lines as Capt Naum gave the working fire signal.  C-2 (D/C Zaferakis) arrived shortly thereafter and assumed Command.   Crews kept the damage confined to 1 unoccupied classroom.  Other units assisting were Eng 31, Ld-1, E-41 and Truck 2 from Liverpool

 

September 23rd, 2003
Engine 31 to N. Syracuse apartment building fire
www.mcfd.org
Shortly after 22:00 hours on Sept 11, units from North Syracuse and MCFD Sta 3 were dispatched to a apartment fire at 600 S. Main St in the village of North Syracuse.  NS Car 1 (Chief Linnertz) arrived and found fire and smoke showing and reported possibly a couple apartments on fire.  Engine 31 (Lt. Dembowski) arrived shortly after the first North Syracuse units and the crew conducted searches and faced heavy fire conditions.  Engine 31 then performed overhaul.  Sta 3 maintained another crew in quarters during the operation

 

October 9th, 2003
Family Appreciates Everyone’s Efforts
The Post-Standard
To the Editor:
I hope we are following the rule, rather than the exception, with this letter of thanks to all the folks that tried to pull our mother/wife, Joan Farnsworth, through her recent heart attack. The rescue workers arrived at her home in three minutes, the troopers delivered her husband safely and quickly to the hospital, and the hospital emergency staff worked with all their hearts to save her. So, thank you to Moyers Corners Fire Department, North Onondaga Volunteer Ambulance (NOVA), the New York State Police and St. Joseph's Hospital emergency room. These professionals have our thanks and appreciation for their caring and effort, and we hope they know how grateful our community is to have these heroes.
The Family of Joan M. Farnsworth

 

 

 

October 16th, 2003
Seven New Members Join Fire Department
The Post-Standard
Clay councilors have approved the appointments of seven new members of the Moyers Corners Fire Department. Mark Fedorich, Carl Graves and Ryan Hodson will be assigned to the department's Station 1; Alfred Lane will be assigned to Station 2; Shawn Marshall will be assigned to Station 3; and Paul Byers and Frederick Sears will be assigned to Station 4

 

 

 

December 9th, 2003
Local residents invited to Station 2 for fire prevention
www.mcfd.org
A group of 30 parents and children from mommies and me visited station 2 to go though fire prevention with there children today.  The class instructed by Fire Fighter Justin Rowland and assisted by Fire Fighter Richard Kyle, Fire Fighter Adam Croman, and Fire Fighter Ron Proctor.  The Children were from ages 18 months to approximately 6 years.  After a brief demonstration the children were treated to a tour of Station 2 and the fire apparatus housed there.The department does many of these events thought out the year at schools, day cares and in the fire house.  However this one was special, not only because it was last one for the year, but the children attending brought special gifts. They brought in their stuffed toys for the department to distribute to local fire department, ambulance corps and hospitals where children may need a little comforting.  This was great gift for those children that need a little extra comforting, whether it is on the scene of a call or in a hospital. We would like to say thank you to those children and families that attended

 

2004
Chief Steve Bressette
 First Deputy Chief: Mike Zaferakis
Second Deputy Chief Ed Wisnowski
Battalion 1 Chief EJ Stevens
Battalion 2 Chief Chet Fritz
Battalion 3 Chief Tim Chura
Station 1 Captain Mike Kenyon
Station 2 Captains Steve Race,  Chris Naum
Station 3 Captains  Ron Jennings, Dennis Lyons
Station 4 Captain Frank Crispin
Station 1 Lieutenant: Jim Zampini
Station 2 Lieutenants: Mike G. Brown, Brad Patkochis,  Bob Driscoll 
Station 3 Lieutenants: Rick  Howard, Bob Libertore, Steve Dembowski 
Station 4 Lieutenants: Jered Zeppetello, Ed LaDuke 

 

Executive Board
 President Greg Shaffer
Vice President Steve Rubacky 
Secretary Kristy Kennedy, Assistant Secretary Ron Proctor 
Treasurer Justin Rowland, Assistant Treasuer Jim Wisnowski

 

Fire Police:  Captain Tom Delasin, Lieutenant Bob Swahn

 

Bunk Ins: Mike Onysko, Eric Smolinski, Matthew Buss, Greg Eager

 

 

 

Auxiliary: President Norma Guinta, Vice President Brenda Kennedy, Recording Secretary Jean Jones, Corresponding Secretary Kathleen Ordway, Treasurer Natalie Hunter, Chaplain Lorraine Sahm, Josephine Guinta

 

 

 

January 23rd, 2004

 

Battalion 2 factory fire

 

www.mcfd.org

 

Saturday January 17th began relatively uneventful, with the usual number of incident calls within all three battalion response areas. The afternoon started off with Battalion 2 Box 2215 dispatched at 12:46 hours reporting a structure fire in a large commercial occupancy at 4471 Steelway Blvd., South, Packaging Corporation of America. Initial dispatch reports indicated significant flames and smoke coming from the corrugated cardboard paper production area of the facility.  Battalion 2 and Car 1 arrived on side 4 of the 75,000 SF building and were directed to the corrugated cardboard production and finishing area by evacuated plant employees. Car 1 assumed incident command, while Battalion 2 established operations. Arriving companies consisting of Engine Companies 22, 31, 41, Truck Co.2, Ladder Co. 1 and Rescue Companies 3 and 4 were immediately assigned, anticipating a challenging assignment. Engine Company 22 and Truck Co. 2 were first due and promptly entered side 4 in the vicinity of the reported fire, while the balance of the alarm response established water supplies or assumed staging. Confronted with a moderate and elevated smoke condition upon initial entry, it was discovered the fire was controlled and extinguished by plant employees in the incipient stages at the fabrication machine. Standpipe hose packs were initially deployed into the structure, however following a rapid assessment by interior companies and verification that the fire did not extend into the building's accumulator system, Battalion 2 transmitted a Signal 98 minor fire, out on arrival. All companies were picked up and returned to service by 13:18 hours.A mere hour later companies would be dispatched to the 3rd Battalion,  Box 3206 for an all hands residential structure fire at 4822 Glencrest Avenue

 

 

 

January 23rd, 2004

 

Residential working fire

 

www.mcfd.org
All MCFD stations were alerted for a possible structure fire on Saturday, January 17th at approximately 1415 hours.  A neighbor called 911 to report smoke and fire showing from 4822 Glencrest Avenue (Box 3206) with someone possibly inside the structure.  Minutes prior to that dispatch, MCFD Stations 1 & 4 were dispatched for a reported vehicle fire on Rt. 481 near the county line.   Battalion 2 (B/C Fritz) arrived on Glencrest Ave. to find a 2 story, wood frame raised ranch with heavy fire on the second floor and immediately struck a Signal 99 and assumed Command.  Engine 31 (Capt. Jennings) arrived within minutes, established the primary water supply on the hydrant across from the structure, and initiated an aggressive interior attack with a 1 3/4" handline in the front door.  31's crew encountered fire banking down the landing of the foyer and pushed the fire back as they made and protected the stairs.  It appeared that the fire was running the attic, so Truck 2 (Lt. Driscoll) sent a crew to the roof while the remainder of the crew went inside for overhaul.  Engine 32 (Capt. Lyons), worked on a secondary water supply, and pulled a second line and assisted with suppression on the second floor.  Engine 22 (Lt. Patkochis), worked on a third water supply, and performed a primary search on the second floor with Squad 2 (Capt. Naum).  Rescue 3 (Lt. Dembowski) established the RIT team in front of the structure.  Engine 41 (Capt. Crispin) worked with E22 on the third water supply while the crew performed additional searches in the structure.  Interior crews made quick work of the fire and prevented it from running the length of the attic.   However, the house sustained heavy fire damage to the second floor and attic.  All searches resulted in negative results for victims (the homeowner arrived during the incident).  Additional support crews on scene were Ladder 1 (Capt. Kenyon) who assisted with overhaul and Engine 12 (F/F Fritz) who staged after clearing the car fire.  Chief officers supporting Command were Car 1 (Chief Bressette) as Operations, Car 2 (D/C Zaferakis) as Safety, and Battalion 3 (B/C Chura) as Interior.

 

Fortunately for the crews, the fire occurred during a "heat wave".  Temperatures in the days preceeding the fire were below zero, with wind chills in the -20 to -30 degree range.  Temperatures at the time of the fire were in the 20's making the operating environment somewhat comfortable.  However, the recent cold snap did have an affect on the operations.  Two of the three hydrants hit during the incident were frozen.  The primary water supply established by E31 was difficult to open, but provided enough water for the operation.

 

The crews made a quick stop to a well-involved fire, thus preventing extensive damage to the structure.  Great job to all!

 

February 1th, 2004

 

Dey Road partial structural collapse

 

www.mcfd.org
Companies from the Second and Third Battalions were dispatched Saturday night February 14th at 23:51 hours to a reported alarm system activation at the Northland Packaging Facility located on 4662 Dey Road, Box 3206. Engine Companies 31, 21 and Truck Co. 2 responded on the initial alarm. Upon arrival on side 1, a large portion of a canopy roof area near the loading docks was observed collapsed with a significant mound of snow present. Truck Co. 2 ( Lt. Patkochis) established command and completed a size-up report indicating a partial collapse of the structure, while Engine Co. 21 ( Capt. Naum) took operations and Engine Co.31 completed a 360 of the structure to determine the scope and extent of the incident. Lt. Brown's crew (TR2) immediately entered the structure to determine interior conditions. Upon entering the large steel framed structure from the loading dock area on side 1, a natural gas like odor was encountered by interior companies, along with a sizable water flow from a compromised sprinkler branch pipe at the roof area of the number 1-4 corner.

 

Command quickly requested that the box be filled, subsequently bringing into the scene Engine Co. 41 and Ladder Co.1 along with the Battalion 2 Chief Frtiz (BC-2). Operations identified an isolated collapse of a single 40 ft. bay area at the 1-4 corner, with a bowed steel beam and compromised steel bar joists. Precautionary measures included dropping supply lines and establishing water sources from nearly hydrants while the structure was completed searched and the extent of the structural collapse was verified. Metering of the interior areas by TR-2, LD-1 and E-21 crews did not identify any hazardous conditions with normal readings present. It was determined later in the operations that the gas like odor resulted from oil residual mixing with the sprinkler system water flow from adjacent steel printing spindles contributed to the natural gas like odor.E-31 and E-41 crews worked to secure the water flow from the yard pump house, as the flow control valve for the compromised sprinkler system was buried under the mound of snow and structural steel in the side 1 collapse zone. BC-2 (Chief Fritz) worked with the 911 Center in requesting support from Niagara-Mohawk for utilities and Code Enforcement assistance and supported command post operations of the incident.

 

Town of Clay of Clay Codes Enforcement arrived and began an inspection of the structure along with the building representative, as companies picked up lines in near sub-zero temperatures and retuned to service by 01:30 hours

 

February 23rd, 2004

 

Structural collapses in the Battalion 2 and 3 areas

 

www.mcfd.org
Onondaga County 911 dispatched companies from the Second Battalion to Box 2205, 4632 Wetzel Road Saturday afternoon February 21 at 13:46 hours for a reported structural collapse in the vicinity of that address. Engine Co. 21 under the command of Lt. B. Patkochis and Truck C. 2 under the command of Capt. C. J. Naum responded. Upon arrival, companies found a 60 ft. x 40 ft. attached section of a church operated by the Sikh Foundation Syracuse had sustained a complete pancake roof collapse. Further investigation by the operating companies found the two-story metal clad, wood framed section attached to the church sustained a complete collapse of the wood trussed roof system as a result of an apparent significant snow load. This section of the occupancy housed a storage area for the church, which was not occupied at the time of the collapse. Following a survey of the collapse zone and hazards abatement, the structure was turned over to the owner, who awaited the arrival of the Town of Clay Code Enforcement Officer for further safety assessment and habitability determination.

 

At 20:54 hours Engine Companies E-31, 21, 41, 11, Truck Co. 2, Rescue Companies 3 and 4, BC-3 and Car 3 were dispatched to a reported structural collapse of a roof at 7380 Coffee Mill Circle, Box 3207 in the MCFD 3rd Battalion. The occupants of the two story single-family dwelling reported to the 911 Center, a collapse of the roof system at their residence. Car 3 and BC-3 arrived to find the upper second floor roof soffits ripped away from the roof perimeter along side 1. A significant snow and ice load was found on the lower garage and porch area. Following a quick size-up by Car 3 (Deputy Chief E. Wisnowski) and assessment by BC-3 (Battalion Chief T. Chura), the alarm response was downgraded to Engine Co. 31 and Truck Co. 2, with the balance of the dispatch, returned to service. Operating companies at the scene assessed the structural damage of the upper and lower roof areas. An apparent large mass of snow and ice had slid off the upper second floor roof and impacted the lower roof system, causing significant damage to the wood support rafters and truss systems.  The impact load snapped the entire front roof supports along side 1of the porch and garage areas. Further collapse of the structural roof deck, porch and garage was limited due to the presence of a main steel support beam that ran parallel to the framing system and withstood the load transfer and impact. A collapse zone was established following the removal of two vehicles from the garage and the incident was turned over to the Town of Clay Code Enforcement Officer

 

March 9th, 2004

 

Soule Road accident requires extrication

 

www.mcfd.org
A wet snowfall created slippery roads on Monday night, March 8th, that contributed to a two vehicle accident on Soule Road.  MCFD Stations 1 and 4 were dispatched for a reported Signal 80, possibly with multiple injuries, on Soule Road near the Rt. 481 onramp.  Car 2 (D/C Zaferakis) arrived to find two minivans off the roadway on Soule Road near Burningtree Road.  Rescue 4 (Lt. Zeppetello) arrived immediately after and began patient size-up.  The Rescue Officer informed Command that extrication would be required on one vehicle and that (5) patients, including children, would need evaluation.  The Rescue Officer also requested a second Heavy Rescue.  Fire Control initially dispatched NOVA and GBAC ALS ambulances.  Command requested a 3rd ALS ambulance as well as Clay E21 (with extrication tools) and MCFD R3 based on the size-up information. Rescue 4 worked with the ambulances on scene to assess extent of injuries and prepared for extrication.  Engine 11 (Lt. Zampini) deployed a handline for scene safety while the hydraulic tools were in use. Squad 2 (F/F Rowland), staffed in-house with medical personnel, responded with Command's approval and assisted with patient care.  Rescue 3 (Capt. Jennings) performed patient packaging and removal from vehicle #2 as Rescue 4 finished the roof removal on vehicle #1.  All patients were removed from their vehicles and loaded into (2) ambulances within 29 minutes.  All total, two adults and two children were transported to city hospitals.

 

Soule Road remained closed for about 30 minutes after the fire crews picked while the vehicles were removed and for the County DOT to plow and salt the road.  Fire Policemen Tom Delasin, Nick Erard, Steve Mauser, and Steve Rubacky kept the road shut down during the operation

 

April 25th, 2004

 

Dinner-time apartment fire in Station 2 area

 

www.mcfd.org
On Wednesday, April 21, Moyers Corners volunteers were dispatched at 18:53 to a reported structure fire at 9 Plantation Blvd off Morgan Rd in the Town of Clay . Multiple calls reported a fire in an apartment building. Engine 21 (Lt Patkochis) and C-1 (Chief Bressette) arrived at 18:59 to find a two-story wood-frame apartment building with fire showing from the rear windows. Engine 21's crew deployed a 200' 1.75" line to the front door which was dead bolted. Engine 31(Capt Lyons) assisted in the forcible entry and stretched the 2" back-up line. The fire was located in the kitchen and dining room area was knocked down by the initial hand line. Engine 41 (Capt Crispin) checked for extension on the second floor as did Rescue 3 (Capt Jennings) on the #4 exposure. Searches done by the Rescue Company were negative. Ladder 1 had RIT and Truck 2(FF Belczak) performed ventilation. Engines 11, 22, 32 and Liverpool Eng 1 assisted in overhaul and pick-up. C-1 had command, B/C-1 (B/C Stevens) had operations and B/C-2 (B/C Fritz) had Safety. The cause was determined to combustibles on the stove. Units were available by 21:30

 

 

 

April 26th, 2004

 

Multiple Signal 80’s at the same intersection

 

www.mcfd.org
This weekend proved to be very busy for Stations 2 and 4 at the intersection of Oswego Road (Rt. 57) and Blackberry Road entering the Bayberry Community. On Saturday, April 24, 2004, Stations 2 and 4 were activated for the motor vehicle accident with injuries (Signal 80), car possibly into the pole at the intersection with the traffic signal out. With volunteer crews in-house staffing apparatus, the following assigned units launched, Car 1, BC-2, E-22 (Capt. Race), Rescue 4 (Capt. Crispin), and NOVA. Car 1 arrived at the assigned intersection reporting the MVA with hazards. E-22 arrived, secured the northbound lanes of the intersection, pulled the front trash line and secured hazards while Rescue 4 secured traffic and assisted NOVA with the injury. Command held with Engine 22 to await NIMO and wrecker for vehicle removal from the 120V traffic control box. Units cleared within 35 minutes. Photographs provided.

 

On Sunday, April 25, 2004, the same units responded for the MVA with injury and the car into a brick wall at the same intersection. Units again responded with in-house staffing (due to previous alarms) and included Car 1, Car 5 (Capt Crispin), E-22 (Lt. Patkochis), R-4, and NOVA. Units arrived and found a MVA, car into the center dividing brick wall, entering the Bayberry community. Both E-22 and R-4 secured the intersection and vehicle, with the Rescue Company having the patient care and removal and the Engine Company with hazards. One patient was packaged and transported by NOVA, hazards removed and units cleared within 20 minutes

 

May 20th, 2004

 

Fatal head-on collision on Buckley Road

 

www.mcfd.org
Moyers Corners Stations 2, 3, and 4 were activated for a reported Signal 80 Monday afternoon, 5/17/04, at the intersection of Morgan Road and Buckley Road.  Revised dispatch information placed the accident on Buckley closer to Henry Clay Boulevard.  Battalion 2 (B/C Fritz) arrived within minutes of dispatch and reported the accident on Buckley between Morgan and Henry Clay and that the accident looked "serious".  One vehicle with heavy damage was in the middle of the road and the driver was trapped.  The other vehicle came to rest on top of the guardrail and the driver and passenger had left the vehicle.

 

Rescue 3 (F/F Izzo) began the extrication process with Rescue 4 (F/F Farrance) assisting upon their arrival.  The Rescue crews were faced with a tricky extrication as the driver was wedged into the driver's area compartment.  The roof was removed and the crews tried to roll the passenger side dash.  Unfortunately, this area crumpled around the Rams.  Crews then focused on removing the driver's side of the vehicle to gain enough access to free the victim.  Fortunately, that plan, along with a simultaneous passenger side dash roll, created enough space to free the victim.  Total extrication time from time of dispatch was 31 minutes.

 

Car 3 (D/C Wisnowski) took the command and Car 2 (D/C Zaferakis) assisted the Rescue officer.  Liverpool Engine 2, who notified Fire Control that they had a crew in quarters, was specialled to the scene and took scene support and handline protection.  Unfortunately, despite the fast work by the Rescue crews, the victim later died of his injuires

 

June 16th, 2004

 

Corners work multiple MVA’s simultaneously

 

www.mcfd.org
On Tuesday, June 15, 2004 at 1717 hours, The Moyers Corners Volunteers were dispatched for the Motor Vehicle Accident with injuries in the area of the intersection of Bear Rd. and Liffey Lane (Station 3 First-Due).  Reports from the EOC stated possibly 3 vehicles involved with injury.  Assigned to the box and responding within 2 minutes were E22 (Lt. Patkochis) and Rescue 3 (Capt. Lyons).  While responding, the Corners received another Motor Vehicle Accident with possible injuries on Buckley Road between Morgan and Henry Clay Blvd.  E22 responding from station 2 took the Buckley assignment (as they would have had to pass the incident).

 

Buckley MVA:  Car 1 (Bressette) and Battalion Chief 2 (Fritz) had the Buckley assignment with E22 providing for hazards, patient refusals, and await the wreckers.  Per fire police on scene, a motorcycle operator was reportedly ticketed for attempting to by-pass, police and fire police lines and trying to proceed through the accident scene during the incident (as the road was shut-down due to the MVA).

 

Bear MVA:  Car 3 (Wisnowski) and Battalion 1 (Stevens) had the Bear assignment along with Rescues 3 (Capt. Lyons) and 4 (Lt. Zepettello) along with E21 (J. Wisnowski) as the specialed engine company.  The Bear Rd. Command requested a total of 3 Ambulances which brought two NAVAC rigs and NOVA.  Three patients were transported to area hospitals for evaluation.

 

During the incident, all Moyers Corners Stations manned several additional pieces of apparatus.  All assignments were cleared within 45 minutes.  Assisting the operations as fire police included B. Swahn, N. Erard, and S. Rubacky (Buckley Job).  We would also like to thank the Onondaga County Sheriffs Dept. and Liverpool PD for their assistance with both incidents

 

June 25th, 2004

 

Quick knock on commercial fire

 

www.mcfd.org
On Wednesday, June 23, 2004 at 17:39 hours, the structural box was struck in the Battalion 2 first due, for the reported structure fire at 4471 Steelway Blvd. South, a local cardboard processing, manufacturing, and storage facility.  Moyers Corners Battalion 2 (BC Fritz) arrived within  minutes to find a possible fire inside the structure and passing command to Car 1 (Chief Bressette).  Within 10 minutes, over 25 members from the Moyers Corners and Liverpool Fire Departments had arrived and began extinguishment of what turned out to be a fire in the dust/particle exhaust system.  3922 (J. Wisnowski) arrived on Side 4 on the plug, stretched a 2.5" rear pre-connect and extended lay pack to the fire.  LVP E-1 assumed side 1 and secondary water supply and assisted with interior operations.  39 Truck 2 (Lt. Brown) arrived on side 3, secured the power to the machine(s) and assisted with use of the TIC (Thermal Imaging Camera).  Additional Moyers Corners units working included R3 (Lt. Liberatore), E31 (Lt. Dembowski), Ladder 1, and E41.  The fire was extinguished and units returned in service at 18:45.  Which brought an additional run for 3922 on the way home. Following the incident and after a short delay, the Moyers Corners Fire Department Softball Team defeated the North Syracuse Fire Department Softball Team in 6 innings, 18-3.  Which kept the Corners undefeated at 8-0 for the season and atop of the division.  Thank you to all members, spouses, and friends that attended

 

 

 

June 29th, 2004

 

Overnight 80 pins 2

 

www.mcfd.org
At 00:12 hours on Tuesday, June 29, 2004, Moyers Corners Stations 3 and 2 were dispatched for the police on location reporting an MVA and requesting 3 ambulances at the intersection of Henry Clay Blvd. and W. Taft Road (in front of MCFD St. 3).  Within minutes, Car 3 (Chief Wisnowski), MCFD R-3 (Lt. Dembowski), Car 1 (Chief Bressette), and MCFD E22 (Lt. Driscoll) arrived to find a 3 car MVA with multiple injuries.  MCFD R-3 confirmed 2 people trapped (in separate vehicles) and command (Chief Wisnowski) requested an additional heavy rescue company.  This brought MCFD R-4 and the closest next due heavy rescue company, Liverpool R-1.  MCFD E21 (Capt. Race) responded with additional in-house staffing as multiple handlines were deployed to both extrication sites (being approximately 75 feet apart with fuel spills).

 

Extrication 1:  After collision, the pick-up rolled over several times into the tractor trailer truck pinning the lone occupant.  MCFD R-3 had the extrication.  Once the vehicle was stabilized, the patient became combative and decided to self extricate himself.  After this process, the patient became extremely combative and had decided to climb on and jump between the roofs of the nearby vehicles and apparatus.  The police with assistance of the E22 members, laddered the nearby ambulance in an attempt to gain access to the awaiting victim.  Victim at that time was taken to the awaiting ambulance.

 

Extrication 2:  After an off-center collision with the pick-up, the compact car came to rest in a field approximately 25 feet off the road.  LVP R-1 had the extrication of one individual.  The roof was removed, doors popped, and patient removed to awaiting ambulance.

 

All patients were extricated and sent to awaiting ambulances within 25 minutes.  Units remained on scene for some time to assist in the police investigation and flush job.  Responding ambulances included NOVA, NAVAC, and Rural Metro.  We would also like to thank the Onondaga County Sheriffs Department, Town of Clay, and Liverpool Police agencies for their assistance with scene safety and traffic control.

 

July 1, 2004 
Firefighters test thermal imaging device at mall fire – 
Pedro Ramirez III 
Post Standard
When Moyers Corners firefighters responded to an electrical fire last week at The Gap in Great Northern Mall, they brought with them one of the industry’s latest technology aids: a thermal imaging device. The expensive device 9they can range from $10,000 on up) allow firefighters to see through smoke and through certain wall materials to detect whether a fire has seeped into the walls. Moyers Corners used the device last Friday to check if an electrical fire had extended into the walls of the Gap’s changing rooms. A light assembly attached to the stall mirrors caught fire. A mall security guard squelched the flames with a fire extinguisher before the blaze spread, firefighters said. Bu, firefighters still checked for hidden flames in the wall behind the stall’s mirror just in case. Captain Ron Jennings pointed the hand-held device at the light assembly. The device resembles an oversized Star Trek phaser, but with a handguard. A view screen facing the firefighter sits atop the device. Parts of the light assembly were much whiter that the other parts. The whiter the image, the hotter it is, Jennings explained. The heat from the lights were merely residual heat, firefighters said. “Everything appears to be clear, said Lt. Rick Howard after Jennings scanned the wall behind the stall. “that’s the beauty of the device. If there had been anything behind that wall, it would have shown up as bright white.”. Without the device, Howard said, firefighters would have to check for hot spots the old fashioned way: feeling the wall with the back of their hands, looking for paint bubbling or using at ool to punch a hole in the wall. “It saves us a bunch of work, a bunch of time,” he said, “and it saves the business owners a bunch of costs.” Moyers Corners just got the new device a few weeks ago at a cost of about $10,000 to $12,000. They have a second one and hope to buy a third, firefighters said.

 

 

 

July 13th, 2004

 

Engine 11 goes mutual aid to BCSFD

 

www.mcfd.org
At 1317 hrs. on Tuesday July 13, 2004 the Belgium Cold Springs and Liverpool Fire Departments were dispatched to a reported garage fire at 3550 Patchett Rd. in the Belgium Cold Springs Fire District. Shortly after dispatch, Belgium Station #1 reported heavy black smoke in the area. They requested an engine company from Moyers Corners Fire Department and a rescue company from Baldwinsville Fire Department. Moyers Corners Engine 11 (Capt. Kenyon) responded within minutes. While E-11 was enroute, Belgium Car-1 arrived and reported a Sig-98 garage fire well involved. Upon arrival E-11's crew laid a supply line and deployed a 2 1/2" attack line to the unattached garage. The fire was impinging on a nearby house, where the siding was beginning to melt off. Belgium firefighters deployed a second hand-line off of MCFD E-11 to assist with fire suppression. Liverpool E-5 responded to the scene to assist with manpower. Moyers Corners E-11 operated for about an hour and a half before returning to service

 

 

 

July 26th, 2004

 

Signal 80 rollover calls for MCFD Engine 11

 

www.mcfd.org
On Sunday, July 25th, at 1158 hours, Moyers Corners Engine 11 responded to Belgium Cold Springs on a Signal 80 rollover with entrapment.  At 1153 hours, BCSFD was dispatched to a Signal 80 at the cross of Drakes Landing and Route 31. Additional information from fire control reported a single vehicle rollover.  Once on location, BCSFD Car 1 confirmed the vehicle was on its side with one patient to extricate.  MCFD Engine 11 (FF Perkins) responded to assist with vehicle hazards and scene safety.  The crew from Engine 11 stretched a 1" 3/4 line to protect the crews during extrication.  BCSFD crews extricated the patient within 19 mins to awaiting medics with GBAC.  Agencies assisting included: GBAC, NYS Police, Onondaga County Sheriff's Department, and the Baldwinsville Police Department.

 

 

 

July 29th, 2004

 

Battalion 3 wreck kills 2

 

www.mcfd.org
Shortly after 7PM on Monday, July 26th, Moyers Corners Stations 2 & 3 were summoned to West Taft Road with a cross of Bear for a MVA with injuries. Rescue 3 (Lt. Liberatore), Engine 22 (Lt. Patkochis) and C-1 (Chief Bressette) responded with a staffing of 9. They arrived with NOVA and NAVAC ambulances to find the end results of a T-bone accident.  Initial size-up determined 2 critical patients and 3 patients with non-life threatening injuries. Crews teamed up to assist the ambulance crews in working the trauma patients while Command requested additional resources of Engine 21 (Capt. Naum), Squad 3 (FF S. Wisely) and 2 ambulances from Rural/Metro in Syracuse. Once the Trauma patients were loaded and several combination crews of Fire/EMS responders headed to hospitals, efforts were concentrated on packaging the 3 BLS patients. Once all patient care was completed, the scene was secured for investigation by OCSD. Companies cleared within 2 hours. Both trauma patients, despite efforts of the crews, subsequently passed away

 

 

 

July 30th, 2004

 

Truck 2 runs Liverpool landmark blaze

 

www.mcfd.org
Shortly before 5AM July 30, Liverpool Fire was dispatched to a reported fire at the Heid's Resturant in the Village of Liverpool. Heid's is a landmark at the corner of the Onondage Lake Parkway and Old Liverpool Rd. Liverpool C-1 (Chief Loucks) arrived and had fire showing from the roof. With Liverpool's Truck out of service, Moyers Corners Truck 2 was requested. Truck 2 (Lt Driscoll) responded with a 6-person crew and set-up on Side 1 (A).  Fire Suppression was completed by Liverpool's Squirt and a handline. The Truck did overhaul and salvage and was picked up and in-service in less than 90 minutes. C-5 (Capt Race) responded and assisted with the Truck crew's assignments. Thanks to the combined efforts of Liverpool and Moyers Corners, Heid's famous hot dogs and chocolate milk will flow again!!!

 

 

 

August 4th, 2004

 

Engine takes in Plainville 99 assignment

 

www.mcfd.org
On Tuesday, August 3rd, after running an assignment for a car into a building on Hencil Court off of Gaskin Road (Rescue 4, Rescue 3, Engine 21), Engine 21 was specialed on the Signal 99 (Working Fire) assignment to the Plainville Fire District. Engine 21 (FF Belczak) responded from Station 1 with 4 personnel (Belczak, Rowland, Kyle, Byer) to 8263 Oswego Rd between Brown and Chaucer. MCFD Engine 21 arrived within 7 minutes of the 99 dispatch and assisted with the extinguishment and overhaul of the fire on the first floor of the 1.5 single family dwelling. Baldwinsville E-5 was first due to find a basement fire with extension to the first floor. Moyers Corners units operated for just under an hour. Units on the fireground included Plainville (engine), Lysander (TP), Baldwinsville (engine), Lakeside (rescue), Phoenix (rescue) with additional fill-in companies.During the 99 assignment, 2 additional calls were received and staffed by in-house personnel

 

 

 

August 6th, 2004
Lessons in Drill at School; Emergency Crews Train in Joint Large-Scale Exercise
The Post-Standard
By Sterling Gray
When Moyers Corners Fire Department engines rolled into the Liverpool High School parking lot, smoke was starting to fill the second-floor classroom windows. Reports indicated there were victims inside. The Northern Onondaga Volunteer Ambulance service entered the scene with lights flashing and siren silent. The drill was going well.

 

The fire department and school district conducted the joint training Thursday night to practice responding to a fire at the high school. The drill was designed to help emergency crews better respond to emergencies, said Michael D. McCarthy, director of security for the Liverpool school district. It also helped fine-tune the school district's security plan for emergencies. "After this, we'll all sit down and talk about what went right and what went wrong," McCarthy said. Although school district security and the fire department have held smaller drills before, this was their first large-scale drill, McCarthy said. A similar one was scheduled last year, but it was canceled after a power failure originating in Ohio darkened most of the Northeast. A fog machine used to simulate smoke in the halls of the school's second and third floors cut visibility to zero as teams of firefighters searched for "victims" and fought the "fire." About 50 firefighters took part, Moyers Corners Deputy Chief Mike Zaferakis said.

 

As hundreds of feet of fire hose lined the halls and stairwells, two firefighters dragged a person out of the smoky hallway and into a clearer stairwell. J.J. Ferrara, 19, a member of the fire department's Explorer post, posed as a victim, with a cut on his arm from broken glass. Ryan Welch, 18, another Explorer who posed as a victim, was airlifted by the Onondaga County Sheriff's Office helicopter, which had landed in a nearby soccer field. "It was a different perspective," Welch said of playing a victim. "I know what they're doing, but it could be scary for a layperson in the same situation." Zaferakis videotaped the exercise and will use the footage to better train firefighters. He said the drill went well. "We did some things better and some things faster," Zaferakis said. "Everyone here should walk away with some lessons learned."

 

 

 

 

 

August 14th, 2004

 

Engine works Clay MVA

 

www.mcfd.org
August 14-Moyers Corners Sta 2 firefighters were dispatched as automatic aid to a MVA at Morgan and Oak Orchard Rds in the Clay Fire District at 01:58.  A second call indicated entrapment with a unresponsive driver.  Engine 22's crew (Lt/ EMT Patkochis, FF B Quinn, FF/EMT Belczak and FF/EMT Rowland) arrived just after the ambulance crew at 2:08 to find a car that hit a pole with heavy driver's side intrusion off the road with one trapped.  The Engine crew stablized the car and placed one of the EMTs in the car to assist in ventilating the critical patient. Due to the seriousness of the accident, additional resources were requested which included MC Squad 2 (Capt Naum). The combined crew of Engine 22, Clay Engine 21 and Rescue 3, MC Car-1 (Chief Bressette), Clay C-2 (Chief Redhead) and NOVA Ambulance removed the patient within 14 minutes of arrival. The patient was transported to a tramua center with serious injuries. Moyers Corners Units cleared by 02:45

 

 

 

August 24th, 2004

 

One car mva brings extrication

 

www.mcfd.org
Following the Annual Fire Department Clambake on Saturday, August 21, 2004, the Moyers Corners Volunteers were dispatched at 1913 hours for the MVA with injury (Signal 80) on John Glenn Blvd. west of Rt. 57. As Moyers Corners units were staffing, MCFD Rescue 4 (Capt. Crispin) from in-house, requested Liverpool's Engine 3 (returning from MCFD St. 2) to start toward the reported address. Units arrived within 5 minutes to find one car off the road, into trees, with the lone occupant trapped. Units successfully extricated the patient after an extensive shoring job within approximately 35 minutes. Roof removed and patient removed via board to the awaiting ambulance. This was reportedly the second accident of the day for the victim.

 

Units Working and Assisting on Scene:

 

• Liverpool Car 2 (Chief Muldoon) had the Command.
• Rescue 4 (Capt. Crispin) had the Rescue Sector and Extrication.
• Clay Engine 21 (First Due Engine) and Liverpool Engine 3 (Second Due Engine) checking hazards, both deployed lines.
• Third due engine, Moyers Corners Engine 22 (FF Belczak) assisted with shoring and scene safety.
• MCFD Squad 1 (FF Fedorich) assisted with shoring and patient care.
• GBAC Ambulance (Helicopter Cancelled by Command)

 

During the incident, Moyers Corners E-21 (Lt. Patkochis) and Belgium-Cold Springs handled a reported car fire, less than a mile from the accident scene. Additional Moyers Corners units were staffed during the incident. We would also like to thank Liverpool, Clay, North Syracuse, and Belgium-Cold Springs for providing standby coverage during our annual clambake. Also, congratulations to the Rescue Co. members that received their first cut job following their recent extrication course

 

September 19th, 2004

 

Crews make quick work of trailer fire

 

www.mcfd.org
On September 19th, Moyers Corners Fire Department was activated for a reported structure fire in Casual Estates Trailer Park on Route 57.  Additional information reported smoke coming from the roof, and caller believed the trailer was vacant. Upon arrival, MCFD Car 2 (M. Zaferakis) assumed command, reported smoke from the structure and signaled a "98".  Engine 41 (Capt. Crispin) once on location deployed a 1 ?" attack line and began fire suppression.  The crew from Rescue 4 (Lt. Zeppetello) performed a search of the structure, which turned up negative. Engine 21 (Lt. Patkochis) performed a reverse lay to the hydrant within the cul-da-sac and began exterior overhaul of the fire room.  Engine 11 (FF Fritz) found a secondary water supply and secured utilities. MCFD Car 1 (S. Bressette) assumed safety while B/C 1 (EJ Stevens) assumed interior. The fire was contained to the fire room.  The Onondaga County Fire Investigation Team assisted with the fire investigation.  The assignment was reduced to the above companies, returning Engine 22 and Rescue 3 to service

 

 

 

September 29th, 2004

 

Minor basement fire Battalion 2 area

 

www.mcfd.org

 

At approximately 0430 hours on Sunday, September 26, 2004, the volunteers from Moyers Corners were dispatched for the reported structure fire, fire in the basement on Treeline Drive off Forestbrook Drive in the Town of Clay.  Within 2 minutes of dispatch, Car 1 arrived and assumed command, while Engine 41 (Capt. Crispin), responding with an in-house, overnight crew arrived first, brought a hydrant in and pulled a line to the reported address.  Engine 21 (Lt. Driscoll) arrived and secured E-41's line.  By this time, BC-1 (BC Stevens) assumed interior and confirmed that the fire was extinguished with the need for ventilation.  TK-2 (FF Wick) took the ventilation assignment and waited for the investigators.  Additional responding units included E31, R4, LD1, R3.  The Onondaga County Fire Investigators are providing the investigation.  Units returned to service within 45 minutes.  Fortunately for the owner, a working smoke alarm alerted the resident, who entered the basement and knocked the fire with a couple buckets of water

 

 

 

October 7th, 2004

 

Truck 2 to early morning garage fire in Liverpool

 

www.mcfd.org
Shortly before 0300 Thursday morning volunteers from the Liverpool and Moyers Corners Fire Departments were called to a reported garage fire at 3929 Pawnee Drive.  Liverpool C-3 (Muldoon) arrived and reported smoke showing from an attached garage.  Liverpool E-1 (McGillis) arrived first due with a hydrant in front of the neighboring structure.Upon arrival of Moyers Corners Truck 2 (Lt. Driscoll), the crew was split, with half assisting with forcible entry to the overhead garage door and a primary search of the second floor, and the other half pulling a second line.  The fire was contained to the garage, with the remainder of the residence sustaining minor smoke and water damage.The fire is believed to have been caused by ashes left in a recycling bin.  Other units operating at the scene were Liverpool E-2, E-3, R-1, and Baldwinsville R-6 for RIT.  Truck 2 and Battalion 2 (Race) cleared in approximately one hour

 

 

 

October 12th, 2004

 

Engine 32 second due on early morning bedroom fire

 

www.mcfd.org

 

Liverpool and Moyers Corners Station 3 were alerted shortly after 2:00 AM this morning for a reported bedroom fire at 362 Electronics Parkway in the Liverpool Fire District. Shortly after dispatch, police on scene reported active fire on the second floor of a two unit duplex. Engine 32 (Lt. Liberatore) was second due, laying a supply line into the scene to Engine 2, already in front of the structure. The crew from Engine 32 pulled a second handline, and eventually assisted with other fireground tasks before clearing in about an hour and a half. Engine 22 (Lt. Patkochis) and Battalion Chief 2 (Race) stood by at Liverpool Station One

 

 

 

October 12th, 2004

 

Truck 2 and Ladder 1 take in Lakeside fire

 

www.mcfd.org
On 10-12-04 volunteers from MCFD Stations 1 & 2 were activated to respond mutual aid to Lakeside Fire District on a signal 99.  Lakeside command special called Truck 2 to the scene and requested Ladder 1 on a coverage move-up to Lakeside Station 2.  Lakeside command was confronted with a fire in a two story wood frame duplex, with hazards due to a live secondary power line to the structure.  Initial attack was delayed until the power was secured by Niagara Mohawk.  As Ladder 1 was arriving for the coverage move-up, it too was special called into the scene.Crews from both specialty pieces performed salvage and overhaul for aprox. half and hour, until released by Lakeside command.  All MCFD units were back in service by 1500. BC Chura and various MCFD crews stood by in-house during the incident

 

 

 

November 24th, 2004
Wal-mart Fire Injures Store Worker
The Post-Standard
By Pedro Ramirez III
A 21-year-old woman working at the Wal-Mart in Clay suffered first- and second-degree burns Tuesday when a paper shredder caught fire. The employee, whom Wal-Mart could not immediately identify, was taken to St. Joseph's Hospital Health Center, but her injuries did not appear to be life-threatening, Moyers Corners firefighters said. The Moyers Corners Fire Department responded at 2 p.m. to a call of a possible explosion at the store at 3949 Route 31. There was no explosion, said Timothy Chura, a department battalion chief. When firefighters arrived, employees had already put out the flames using a fire extinguisher. The shredder was in one of the store's back rooms, Chura said. Onondaga County fire investigators Tuesday afternoon were still trying to determine what caused the fire, he said. It was unclear whether the shredder was being used at the time.

 

 

 

 

 

2005
Chief Steve Bressette
 First Deputy Chief: Mike Zaferakis
Second Deputy Chief Ed Wisnowski
Battalion 1 Chief EJ Stevens
Battalion 2 Chief Steve Race
Battalion 3 Chief Tim Chura
Station 1 Captain Mike Kenyon
Station 2 Captains Chris Naum, Jim Wisnowski
Station 3 Captains  Rick Howard, Jeff Wisely
Station 4 Captain Frank Crispin
Station 1 Lieutenant: Eric Fritz
Station 2 Lieutenants: Mike G. Brown, Bob Driscoll, Brad Patkochis
Station 3 Lieutenants: Mitch Goldberg, Bob Libertore 
Station 4 Lieutenants: Jered Zeppetello, Ken Filow 

 

Executive Board
 President Greg Shaffer
Vice President Jeff Bush 
Secretary Mark Fedorich, Assistant Secretary Mike J. Brown 
Treasurer Charles Palian, Assistant Treasuer Fred Sears

 

Fire Police:  Captain Steve Rubacky, LieutenantDick Kyle

 

Bunk Ins: Josh Manning, Mike Onysko, Matthew Buss, Cody Thieme, Greg Eager, Matt Snyder

 

 

 

Auxiliary: President Norma Guinta, Vice President Brenda Kennedy, Recording Secretary Jean Jones, Corresponding Secretary Kathleen Ordway, Treasurer Helen Schmid, Chaplain Kathleen Heighton

 

Scholarship Winner: Jessica Wisnowski

 

 

 

New Apparatus: Engine 11 Pierce Quantum

Wil Michelson Pics: Rope Rescue Training at Station 2

 

January 18th, 2005

 

Icy weather keeps morning volunteers busy

 

www.mcfd.org

 

On Wednesday, January 12, 2005 at 0620 hours, the volunteers from Moyers Corners Stations 3, 2, and 4 were dispatched for a Motor Vehicle Accident with injuries (Signal 80) in the area of Buckley Road and Henry Clay Blvd.  Units arrived to find a two car MVA with 1 person trapped, requiring light extrication.  Engine 22 (Lt. Driscoll) split the crew to assess hazards in both vehicles and to assist with patient care.  Rescue 3 (Dembowski) arrived and handled the extrication.  Rescue 4 (Capt. Crispin) assisted with patient care of the lone occupant of vehicle 2.  NOVA provided 2 ambulances, MCFD fire police had the road shut down along with assistance from the Onondaga County Sheriffs Department.  Extrication was completed within 10 minutes and units cleared within 35 minutes.  Car 1 (Bressette) and Car 3 (E. Wisnowski) provided the command.

A couple hours later, the volunteers were again dispatched for an MVA with up to 15 vehicles involved (including a school bus), a pole down, with minor injuries on Heritage Drive between Morgan Road and Wetzel Road.  Engine 22 (Capt. Wisnowski), Rescue 4 (Filow), and Engine 41 (Zeppetello) arrived to find a multiple vehicle accident with a pole down.  All hazards were mitigated, refusals taken, and units cleared within 30 minutes.

 

 

 

February 4th, 2005

 

Engine 31 assists NSFD with fire

 

www.mcfd.org

 

On Tuesday, January 25, Moyers Corners Station 3 was automatically activated with the North Syracuse Fire Department for a reported structure fire at 7642 Anne Terrace.  North Syracuse Car 2 arrived and reported a 2 story wood frame with heavy smoke showing from the garage command then called for a signal 99.  Battalion 3 Chief Tim Chura responded and joined engine 31's crew consisting of firefighters Jeff Izzo (driver), and Jimmy G (officer), bunkins Matt Buss, Cody Thieme, and mutual aid rider Zack Smith from the Pompey Hill Fire Dept. Enigne 31 arrived  and picked up a hydrant, and then stretched an inch and three quarters line to the garage.  After attempting to gain entry through a blocked side garage door, the garage door itself became the entry point.  Engine 31's crew made a quick knock on the fire while North Syracuse stretched a 2 inch line into the house to check for extension.  North Syracuse's truck crew quickly went to the roof and cut a vent in the roof over the garage.  The fire was confined to the garage with heavy extension to a bedroom above the garage and very little damage to the house itself.

 

 

 

March 10th, 2005

 

Battalion 2 cut job

 

www.mcfd.org

 

On Sunday, March 6, 2005 at 18:23, Moyers Corners Volunteers from Stations 2 and 4 were dispatched for the Motor Vehicle Accident with injuries and a reported person trapped on Oswego Rd. (Rt. 57) near John Glenn Blvd. in front of the Blockbuster.  At 18:26, Car 1, BC2, BC1, E-22 (Capt. Wisnowski), R-4 (Lt. Zeppetello), and SQ2 (FF Piraino) responded and within 3 minutes arrived to find a 2 car accident with injuries and a person pinned.  BC 2 (Chief Race) assumed the Command, Car 1 (Chief Bressette) had the safety division, BC 1 assisted in operations, E22 secured the northbound traffic, stretched a handline for pending extrication, and investigated vehicle hazards while R-4 arrived from the North and began extrication of the lone occupant of the compact car.  The roof was taken to gain access to the patient.  Extrication was completed by the rescue company by 18:52 and units then began to pick up and go home.  GBAC ambulance provided the pt. care to the pinned individual while NOVA responded to an additional call while on scene.  In total, the pinned individual was transported to an area trauma center for treatment and evaluation while 1 individual signed release refusing additional care.  Thank you to the Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Police, Town of Clay and Onondaga County Police Departments for assisting with operations and scene safety.  Units cleared by 19:18 hours

 

 

 

March 10th, 2005

 

Close call in weekend Signal 80

 

www.mcfd.org

 

On Saturday, March 5, 2005 and during a brief snow storm, the volunteers from Moyers Corners Stations 4 and 2 were dispatched for the motor vehicle accident with injuries on Oswego Road (Rt. 57) South of Wetzel Road.  A Navarino Chief arrived to find one individual still trapped inside the vehicle in the process of self extricating himself.  Moyers Corners units arrived to find a two car MVA with injuries (nobody trapped) and hazards.  E-22 (Capt. Naum) arrived and secured the traffic from the South, took the vehicle hazards and assisted in pt. care while R-4 (Lt. Zeppetello) arrived and secured the Northbound traffic and handled pt. care of the previously pinned individual.  In total, 2 patients were transported to a local trauma center for evaluation and treatment while additional individuals were evaluated and signed release refusing additional care.  Moyers Corners units cleared within 35 minutes.  Thank you to the Moyers Corners Fire Police units and the Town of Clay Police Department for assisting with operations and scene safety

 

 

 

April 8th, 2005

 

Early morning house fire

 

www.mcfd.org

 

1. Fortunately, the home was not occupied at the time of the fire
   
   News10now.com
   Morning fire destroys home
   Investigators are trying to determine what caused a fire that destroyed a home on Bonstead Road in Clay. The call came in around 2:30 a.m. A driver traveling on Route 481 noticed the fire and called 911.No one was home at the time.Fire crews used water from the nearby Oneida River to help battle the fire."When we pulled up it was heavy involvement. We advanced three or four hand lines, set up a draft, which is, we pull in water right out of the river to supply our apparatus, and just went to work with the hand lines," said Moyers Corners Chief Steven Bressette. It took about 20 minutes for fire crews to get the fire under control.

 

 

 

April 23rd 2005 Recycle America 4 Alarm Fire

 

 

 

April 25th, 2005
Clues Sought in Fire; Firefighters Keep Watch at Recyclable-Processing Site
The Post-Standard
By Jim Read
Firefighters worked in shifts Sunday extinguishing piles of recyclables still burning a day after Saturday's fire in the Recycle America Alliance warehouse in Clay. Fire investigators spent about seven hours inside the building looking for clues to the cause, said Ed Wisnowski, deputy chief of the Moyers Corners Fire Department. Firefighters poured water into the building's west side as investigators worked. Then payloaders and power shovels were used to clear the building, so firefighters could douse several dozen hot spots amid the bales of recyclables, which were 30 to 40 feet tall. Every few hours, a fresh engine crew was brought in from Moyers Corners and neighboring departments to replace those at work. Firefighters had been at the building around the clock since the fire was reported at 4:10 p.m. Saturday. Wisnowski said he hoped to get all the fires out Sunday night, but the department was prepared to remain at the warehouse overnight. The fire apparently started at the rear of the building, on the west side where part of the roof collapsed, Wisnowski said. The cause might not be determined for several days, he said.

 

The 80,000-square-foot warehouse processes recyclables from blue bins from across Onondaga County under a contract with Onondaga County, said Matthew Coz, vice president for operations for the East. The company also has contracts with other companies to accept other recyclable waste. Recycle America Alliance is a subsidiary of Waste Management Inc. Coz said 100 to 200 tons of newspaper, cardboard, plastics and metal were in the building when the fire was reported. That amount is typical for an average day at the warehouse, he said. About 40 people work in the building, sorting the recyclables and bundling them for shipment to markets. About 6,000 tons of material is processed each month in the Clay facility. The company has 85 recycling centers around the country, Coz said. The fire won't affect curbside pickup of recycling, said Andy Brigham, speaking for the Onondaga County Resource Recovery Agency. Coz said the company is calling its customers and is working on a plan to continue operations.

 

Brigham said people who bring recyclables and trash to the weigh station at the Rock Cut Road facility should go to the Ley Creek transfer station instead until further notice. OCRRA needs to keep the weigh station free because haulers who would have dropped off recyclables at the burned warehouse will instead bring them to Rock Cut Road. Then Recycle America Alliance will pick up the materials and bring them to another recycling center, he said. People who just drop off recyclables at Rock Cut Road without using the weigh station can continue to do so, Brigham said. Coz said the Recycle America Alliance warehouse is insured, but he had no damage estimate because company officials haven't been allowed inside to inspect damage to the sorting and bundling equipment.

 

April 25th, 2005
Fire departments stretched thin
News10Now.com
If they are tired, these volunteer firefighters aren't showing it. The Moyers Corners volunteer fire department was kept busy, first with a major apartment fire in Liverpool, then a huge warehouse fire the next day in the town of Clay "Most of the members have flexibility on their jobs, we do it because we want to do it," Deputy Chief Ed Wisnowski said. Still, battling two major fires takes a toll both physically and mentally. Some can be stubborn, the department spent Sunday putting out hot spots at the Recycle America Alliance plant where smoke continues to smolder.  To reduce fatigue, the unit rotates every two hours.  "We try to send guys home, rehab them with rest, tell them to go home get some sleep if they are available to come back. That's why we are keeping the shifts very short when the back two to three hours and the hopefully most of the guys are coming back pretty fresh," Wisnowski said. Meanwhile, about 40 employees work at Recycle America. The company is now in the process of trying to figure out how to continue operation. "We don't know exactly where we stand right now, it's hard to determine what’s going to happen. We are going to be meeting with each employee tomorrow. We have our human resources department coming up and we are playing it day by day literally," said Matt Coz, Vice President of Recycle America Alliance. Company officials say the fire damage most of the 80 thousand square foot facility. The causes of both fires remain under investigation.

 

April 26th, 2005
Embers Smolder at Clay Recycler
The Post-Standard
By Pedro Ramirez III
Volunteer firefighters on Monday spent their second day at the Recycle America Alliance warehouse in Clay putting out smoldering piles of recyclables. "We're still putting water on it," Moyers Corners Battalion Chief Tim Chura said Monday afternoon. Chura said he expected the smoldering to last into today. Onondaga County fire investigators do not know how the fire started. It was first reported at 4:10 p.m. Saturday. Until they determine a cause, investigators are considering it suspicious, said Joe Rinefierd, fire bureau director for the county's Department of Emergency Management. Moyers Corners fire officials say a pair of big fires and routine calls in the northern suburbs over the past few days have kept firefighters busier than usual. "We haven't stopped running since this weekend," Chura said. On Friday, Moyers Corners sent a crew to help the Liverpool fire department and several others battle a blaze at the Grenadier Village complex in Salina that destroyed at least 10 apartments. County investigators have not determined a cause for that fire but consider it suspicious until they do, Rinefierd said.

 

He said the two major fires don't appear to be related. A minor house fire early Monday at 8305 Pansy Drive, Lysander, sent Moyers Corners firefighters back in action. It took about 10 minutes to extinguish that fire. Nobody was injured, Chura said. The department also responded to about five other routine calls Monday, not all of which turned out to be fires, he said. "It's been busy," he said. "Fortunately ... we've been doing fairly well." Chura says assistance from other local departments has helped a lot. Employers of the volunteer firefighters have been understanding too, he added. County fire officials say as many as 25 departments responded to Saturday's warehouse fire. That number included a little-known full-time crew, the 174th Air National Guard Fighter Wing's fire department.

 

The Guard sent two firefighters and a truck with high-powered water cannons to spray the mounds of recyclables. Saturday's blaze sent black billowing smoke across the area.

 

Diane Carlton, a state Department of Environmental Conservation spokeswoman, said the DEC hasn't sent anyone to test for pollutants. But state experts say the smoke wasn't something they were concerned about. "Obviously (with) any burning building you have air pollution issues," she said. For people with risk factors, such as senior citizens, young children and those suffering with asthma, the DEC suggests they avoid the area until the smoldering ceases, she said. On Monday, Recycle America company officials still had not been able to determine the extent of the damage to the warehouse and the equipment inside. They must wait until the fire is completely out. For now, however, the warehouse's 39 employees are wondering whether they still have jobs. It's a question the company can't answer yet, said Matthew Coz, vice president for operations for the East. Company officials met with employees Monday to answer questions, Coz said. But they didn't have many answers. Whether the company reopens the facility depends on the extent of the damage. If the warehouse and its equipment are a total loss, it could take six to 12 months to rebuild, he said. "It's hard to project that far ahead," he added. "We're hoping for the best."

 

April 28th, 2005
Firefighters Always Ready To Help
The Post-Standard
By Pedro Ramirez III
When the Moyers Corners Fire Department needs help on a call, it can expect neighboring volunteer departments to lend a hand. On Saturday, as crews from Moyers Corners, Liverpool, North Syracuse, Clay, Mattydale, Seneca River and Belgium-Cold Springs, just to name a few, battled a difficult fire at the Recycle America Alliance warehouse on Steelway Boulevard South, two firefighters with the 174th Fighter Wing joined the fray. Armed with a truck with high-powered spray cannons, the full-time firefighters were able to douse mounds of recyclables the other fire crews were having trouble with. The problem, Timothy Chura, a Moyers Corners battalion chief, explained, was that many of the mounds of recyclables were in tightly compressed bundles. "We had to blow them apart," Chura said. "(But) when they're crushed and bound together like that, we just couldn't get in there with a hose. The water just wasn't making any effect." Early on, firefighters decided to attack the blaze from outside because part of the building's roof had collapsed. Using ladder trucks, firefighters from several sides of the building tried dousing the flames from above the roof line.

 

The 174th's truck positioned itself at an opened front bay door at about 7:30 p.m. and began blasting the mounds apart. "That helped immensely," Chura said. The 174th's crew returned to its station at about midnight Sunday, said Capt. Jim Brody, one of the Air Guard's firefighters who responded to the scene. The two water cannons on the 174th's fire truck can shoot a combined 750 gallons of water a minute, Brody said The truck can carry 1,000 gallons of water and 130 gallons of foam, Brody said. It can also hook up to outside water sources. "We hooked up when we were there because obviously at 750 gallons of water a minute," he said, "we're almost out of water after the first minute." Brody says the 174th's fire department is on the job 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The department consists of 12 full-time firefighters and 30 traditional guardsmen, he said.

 

Brody said it's been a while since the 174th has been called out to a county fire. "Not a whole lot of people know we're out there and available for things like that," he said. "They think because we're at the airport, we're committed here constantly." Truth is that the 174th's fire crews can help in a situation outside the base as long as the unit isn't flying, he said. "We've always got our resources available when we don't have (F-16 jets) in the air," Brody said. "We are a good resource if needed."

 

 

 

May 3rd, 2005

 

2nd Alarm fire starts busy weekend

 

www.mcfd.org

 

On Friday, April 22, 2005 at 0427 hours, volunteers from Liverpool FD and Moyers Corners (Truck 2) were dispatched for reported smoke in the hallway with bells at 111 Kings Park Drive off of John Glenn Blvd.  Liverpool Car 3 (Chief Payne) arrived within minutes, assumed command, and found a 3.5 story apartment complex with heavy smoke and fire showing from the second floor.  The first due engine company, Liverpool Engine 3 (Capt. Frani) arrived and laid a 4” line from Side A to Side C of the complex and advanced a 2” line to the fire floor.  Moments later MCFD Truck 2 (Lt. Belczak) arrived on Side C, splitting the crew to initiate interior searches on the 2nd and 3rd floors based on reports of people still in the building, while the driver prepared the tower for aerial operations.  As crews were making interior attacks, conditions were deteriorating rapidly, with the fire breaking into the cockloft and spreading to the opposite side of the stairwell.  At this time, due to the conditions, Command requested a 2nd alarm into the scene.

As the truck crew made the 3rd floor by way of the interior stairway to begin searches, with no line yet on the 3rd floor, the crew was advised to abandon the 3rd floor due to heavy fire involvement on the 3rd floor landing.  Due to this, both truck crews left the building, accountability taken, and ground ladders thrown to attempt searches via exterior balconies.  Within minutes, and due to rapidly deteriorating conditions, Command ordered all companies out of the building and to assume exterior operations.  Once a sufficient water supply was secured, which required B’ville Engine 5 to draft from the nearby marina, both tower lines were placed into service.  At this time, and under the direction of MCFD B/C 2 (Chief Race), a 1.75” line from the Truck was advanced to exposure 112 to check for extension (past the visible fire wall).  The fire was eventually brought under control using multiple ground and aerial master streams, and was contained to building 111 with no extension into building 112.  Liverpool Truck 2 arrived shortly after 0800 to relieve MCFD Truck 2, and the crew returned to quarters at 0830 hours.  Liverpool crews remained on the scene for several hours assisting investigators and controlling hot spots.

The incident proved to be extremely challenging for all parties involved.  With heavy fire conditions upon arrival and very rapidly deteriorating conditions, multiple assignments were required simultaneously by 2 different departments.  Thankfully, due to the prepared box assignments of the Moyers Corners and Liverpool Fire Departments, both companies have been working side by side for several years in preparation for an incident of this magnitude.  All occupants were quickly accounted for and no firefighter injuries were reported.

 

Also operating on the scene or providing coverage assignments were units from Baldwinsville, Belgium Cold Springs, North Syracuse, Seneca River, Lakeside, Mattydale, Lyncourt, Taunton, and Warners.

 

UPDATE:  On Thursday, April 28, 2005, according to WIXT News Channel 9 in Syracuse, NY, the fire has been determined to be intentionally set.  News Channel 9 states “Investigators say the huge fire at Grenadier Village in Liverpool last Friday was intentionally set.  No arrest has been made yet.  We're told it started in a second floor apartment

 

 

 

May 5th, 2005
For Two Rookie Firefighters, Stress, Fun Go Hand in Hand
The Post-Standard
By Pedro Ramirez III
Moyers Corners bunk-ins Matt Buss, 20, and Josh Manning, 19, recently responded to the biggest fires of their young firefighting careers. Both responded to the April23 fire at the Recycle America Alliance warehouse in Clay. Manning also went to the April22 fire at the Grenadier Village Apartments in Salina. Buss, originally from Rochester, and Manning, of Campville, are enrolled in the Fire Protection Technology degree program at Onondaga Community College.  Through the Moyers Corners Fire Department bunk-in program, which is in its fifth year, the two fledgling firefighters live rent-free at one of the department's four stations while they complete their studies. They are among six students enrolled in the Moyers Corners program. Recently, Buss and Manning paused from their duties to answer a few questions.

 

How do you handle the stress of being a firefighter at such a young age?

 

Buss: It's fun. You've got to have fun with it. But, there are times when it is very stressful.... It's like a brotherhood around here. The guys are great. They'll help you out. If you're feeling stressed, they'll take you, sit you down and talk with you because they've been through it.

 

What was it like working at the warehouse fire?

 

Buss: We were trying to knock it down, but it just kept laughing at us.

 

Manning: (This is) the biggest fire I've seen.... We put water on it, but still it wouldn't go out.

 

Do you have time for fun?

 

Buss: We have a great time at the firehouse. We laugh.

 

Manning: I don't think we're missing out on much. The only thing I think we're really missing out on is the dorm life that you would get in college. We've got a lot of freedom to go out to clubs and everything....

 

Should more young people pursue volunteer firefighting?

 

Buss: Absolutely.... Parts of it are dangerous. It's par for the territory. It's a brotherhood like no other.

 

Manning: It comes with good rewards like helping people. I encourage anyone to come out and volunteer.

 

 

 

 

 

May 8th, 2005

 

Rollover with entrapment sends one to the hospital

 

www.mcfd.org
On Friday, May 27th, at 2047 hours, Moyers Corners Stations 2 & 3 were activated for a Signal 80 - vehicle into a tree on Grampian Road at Gerviston Court.  Fire Control advised responding units there were multiple calls received regarding: a vehicle rollover with entrapment, the possibility of an unconscious patient, and up to a total of four patients.  Rescue 3 (Lt. Fritz) responded from the Station 1 area and special called Rescue 4 to assist.

 

Engine 22 (Lt. Belczak) arrived on location, assumed command and reported a vehicle on its roof with a conscious patient to extricate.  The crew from Engine 22 pulled a 1 3/4 handline, provided patient care and initial vehicle stabilization.  The crews from Rescue 3 and Rescue 4 (Capt. Crispin) worked together to stabilize the vehicle and successfully extricate the patient.  Engine 32 (Lt. Goldberg) responded to supplement the crew from Rescue 3.  Car 2 (D/C Zaferakis) arrived and took over the command.  Safety was then assigned to Lt. Belczak.  B/C 2 (S. Race) assisted the command staff.  Rescue 3 (Lt. Fritz) had Operations. Due to an extended extrication, Command activated Station 1 for an Engine to standby at Station 4.  A second Engine was also on standby at Station 2. The total extrication time was 33 mins.  Agencies assisting included: NAVAC, GBAC, NYS Police, Onondaga County Sheriff's Office

 

May 13th, 2005
Thank you from Chief Bressette 
www.mcfd.org

 

At approximately 1600 hrs Saturday, April 23, 2005, Moyers Corners Battalion Chief Stephen Race noticed a large column of smoke as he traveled south on Morgan Road near the area of Steelway Boulevard South. Further investigation showed a well-involved warehouse fire in the Recycle America recyclable processing and storage facility at the very end of Steelway Boulevard South. Simultaneously, calls were starting to come into the Onondaga County 911 Center reporting heavy smoke in the same area. The resulting dispatch would trigger a series of events that would test the resources of the Moyers Corners Fire Department as well as several agencies within Onondaga County. The fire would eventually reach four alarms resulting in the largest firefighting operation in recent times for the Moyers Corners Fire District. In total, 22 fire departments and over 15 additional agencies provided fire suppression support, overhaul, and coverage of the Moyers Corners fire district during the eight core hours of the operation. This support was not limited to the initial day of operation, but continued in the days immediately following the alarm. The Moyers Corners Fire Department would formally like to thank the following agencies for their support during the four Alarm Recycle America Warehouse fire:

 

Moyers Corners Fire Department, Northern Onondaga Volunteer Ambulance, Baldwinsville Fire Department, North Area Volunteer Ambulance Corp, Belgium-Cold Springs Fire Department, Onondaga County Emergency Management, Brewerton Fire Department, Onondaga County Fire Investigation Unit, Bridgeport Fire Department, Onondaga County Sheriff's Office Road Patrol, Camillus Fire Department, Onondaga County Sheriff's Office Air-1, Cicero Fire Department, Onondaga County 911 Center, Clay Fire Department, New York State Police, Dewitt Fire Department, Town of Clay Police, Fairmount Fire Department, Town of Clay Water Department, Hinsdale Fire Department, 174th Air National Guard Crash/Rescue, Lakeside Fire Department, Syracuse Fire Department, Liverpool Fire Department, American Red Cross, Lysander Fire Department, Moyers Corners FD Auxiliary, Mattydale Fire Department, Clay FD Auxiliary, North Syracuse Fire Department, North Syracuse FD Auxiliary, Phoenix Fire Department, NOCO Oil, Plainville Fire Department; Seneca River Fire Department, Solvay Fire Department; South Bay Fire Department and Taunton Fire Department.

 

The teamwork, cooperation, and professionalism demonstrated by all of the agencies listed above contributed to a successful unified Command Post and firefighting operation. Members from your agency played an integral part of achieving that success. Although the building was a total loss, only one minor injury was sustained during the operation and all personnel operating on the scene went home safely.

 

Thank you,
Steven M. Bressette
Chief of Fire

 

July 4th, 2005

 

New E11 receives first alarm – 98 structure assignment

 

www.mcfd.org

 

On Monday, June 27, 2005, the volunteers of Moyers Corners were dispatched at 12:11 for the reported smoke in the structure at 3842 Hensill Court off Gaskin Road in the Battalion 1 first due area.  After being in service for less than 24 hours, the new E-11 (Capt. Kenyon - OIC & FF Fedorich - Driver) received it's innaugural run and became first due at the incident.  B/C 3 (Chief Chura) arrived with nothing showing, E-11 (Capt. Kenyon) assumed the Interior sector and investigated, while E-41 (Lt. Zeppetello) established the water supply via reverse lay.  Interior reported that he had a smoke condition with light smoke coming from the wall in the area where workers had reported soldering pipes earlier.  The area was exposed to find a small fire involving insulation where the pipes had conducted heat and subsequently ignited the insulation.  Command held with a 2-1 response (MCFD E-11, E-41, & TK-2) and returned the mutual aid companies of Belgium Cold Springs, Baldwinsville, and Clay Fire Departments.  All units went in-service at 13:09 hours

 

 

 

July 21st, 2005
Softball teams finishes regular season in first place

 

www.mcfd.org

 

1. It appears we will play at home on August 10th unless something changes between now and that date.

 

August 18th, 2005

 

All hands house fire

 

www.mcfd.org

 

Moyers Corners F.D. was dispatched to a report of smoke coming from the house on the corner of Elaine Circle and Oakwood Drive at 1710 hrs on Wednesday August 17th.  Callers to 911 reported smoke coming from the windows and vents of a house near this intersection.  The structural box also dispatched Clay Engine 21, Baldwinsville R-6 for RIT, and Liverpool Squad 3 (computer error).  Moyers Corners Car 2 arrived within minutes of dispatch to find heavy smoke coming from the windows and the eaves on all sides of a 2 story raised ranch.  No fire was showing, but there was active fire in the ground level of the structure so Car 2 signaled a "98 for now" and took the command.  Engine 41 (F/F Goodson) came in dry at Command's request due to the unique hydrant layout in the neighborhood.  Engine 41's crew advanced a 1 3/4" line to the front door and proceeded to make a hit as Truck 2 (Capt. Naum) arrived and prepared to go to the roof.  Engine 11 (F/F K. Wisely) established the primary water supply by performing a reverse lay from E-41 to the nearest hydrant on Hemlock Circle.  A second crew from Truck 2 performed searches of both floors with negative results.  A second line was pulled by Engine 21's crew (F/F Turiello) at the request of the Interior Sector (B/C Race) but were held at the door.  The quick attack by E-41 and the vertical ventilation by Truck 2 held the fire to the utility room on the ground level.  Command held the fire at a "Signal 98- all hands working".  Other units operating on scene:

Battalion 1 (B/C Stevens)- Safety Sector
Engine 31 (Lt. Izzo)- secondary water, utilities
Rescue 3 (Lt. Goldberg)- horizontal ventilation
Rescue 4 (Capt. Crispin)- staging
Ladder 1 (F/F Byer)- staging
Liverpool SQ-3 (Capt. Frani)- primary RIT
Baldwinsville R-6- secondary RIT

 

 

 

August 24th, 2005

 

MCFD opens fire prevention display at Great Northern Mall

 

www.mcfd.org

 

1. Please stop by and see our display while shopping at the mall

 

 

 

September 2nd, 2005

 

MCFD E11 second due to BCSFD Signal 99

 

www.mcfd.org

 

1. MCFD E-11 returned to service after standing by at BCSFD Station 2 after being released from the scene at 2145

 

 

 

October 24th, 2005
Early morning 99 brings E22 and E11 to Clay

 

www.mcfd.org
On Monday, October 24, 2005 at 4:14 hours, the volunteers from Moyers Corners Station 2 were dispatched to a garage fire, mutual assistance to the Clay Fire Department at 8761 Van Hoesen Road.  Within minutes, Clay Car 2 (Chief Redhead) arrived to find a detached garage well involved with exposures, passed the Command to Clay Car 1 (Chief Stach) and struck a signal 99 (working fire dispatch).  The Signal 99 dispatch brought MCFD E-11 (Capt. Kenyon) to fill-in at Clay Station 2 and Cicero E-3 to fill in at Clay Station 3.  Moyers Corners E-22 (Lt. Belczak) responded with 5 and arrived as the 2nd due engine right behind Clay E-21 and was requested by Operations to bring-in a second 4" supply line from the Rt. 31 side and provide the back-up line to exposure B.  E22 crews provided the entry to the exposure Side B and ensured no extension.  By 5:35, the MCFD E-22 crew picked up and returned to service.  MCFD E-11 remained at Clay Station 1 for some additional time

 

 

 

November 4th, 2005
MCFD Receives FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant, Operations and Safety, for $182,461.00 to modify facilities. The grant money was used to purchase plymo-vent systems for all the stations.

 

December 8th, 2005
Department plans to renovate; Clay’s bonding authority helps with proposed $1.2 Million Project

 

The Post-Standard
By John Doherty
A Moyers Corners fire station will be getting an overhaul. Clay councilors Monday approved a plan that lets the volunteer fire department use the town's bonding authority to borrow $1.2 million to renovate the department's fire station just north of the intersection of routes 31 and 57. The department will borrow the money from J.P. Morgan Chase Bank. "They want to make some renovations at the station and going through us lets them borrow the money at a lower interest rate," said Clay Supervisor Mark Rupprecht. The approval also exempts interest on the loan from federal income tax. The approval does not obligate the town to make any payments on the loan, Rupprecht said. The station is the oldest of the four fire houses operated by the department.

 

 

 

 

 

December 17th, 2005
Fire guts North Syracuse home
www.mcfd.org
Saturday, December 17th at 0935 in the morningthe North Syracuse Fire Department was dispatched to a possible structure fire on Kristen Road between Allen Road and Buckley Road.  Calls reported smoke showing with the possibility of people inside.  Additional information provided the occupants had exited the home with flames seen in the back of the home.  North Syracuse Car 3 (T. Ellis) arrived on scene to find a single story ranch with heavy fire from the front.  North Syracuse Car 1 (M. Hogan) assumed Command and Chief Ellis took Operations.  MCFD Engine 32 and NSFD Engine 8 established water supplies from opposite ends of Kristen Road.  Crews from Engine 32 and Engine 8 pulled 2 - 2 1/2" lines to the front of the structure and started an aggressive push on the fire.   Once the bulk of the fire was extinguished the crew from Engine 32 along with NSFD crews made entry for further extinguishment and overhaul.

 

Companies on scene included: 
North Syracuse: Engine 8, Truck 1, Rescue 7, Engine 6, Rescue 3, Cars 1,3.  Mattydale: Rescue 1 [RIT], Moyers Corners: Engine 32, Engine 22 [Overhaul], Battalion 3 [Command Staff].

 

Additional Resources on scene:
Onondaga County Emergency Management Coordinators. Onondaga County Fire Investigators. Clay PD. NOVA Ambulance. NAVAC Ambulance, NAVAC Squad [Rehab]. American Red Cross

 

December 25th, 2005
Christmas morning 99

 

www.mcfd.org
Shortly before 0530 Christmas Day, volunteers from Moyers Corners Fire Department were alerted for a reported basement fire at 4178 Burningtree Road. Within minutes Fire Control indicated additional calls stating fire showing from across the street.  Engine 41 (Capt. Crispin) arrived first due, established a water supply, and reported heavy fire showing from the basement and second floor. Engine 41's crew quickly confirmed that all the occupants had escaped and initiated an aggressive interior attack in the basement via the front door.  Car 1 (S. Bressette) had the Burningtree Command, while BC-3 (T. Chura) assumed the Operations sector and BC-2 (S. Race) coordinated activities on Side 3 of the structure. Car 3 (E. Wisnowski) assumed the role of Safety Officer. 

Almost immediately after making entry, the crews of E-41 and E-11 discovered the stairs and 2nd floor decking were deteriorating rapidly, and communicated they had to exit the building. Operations quickly changed to an exterior attack, while the crew from Engine 31 (Lt. Izzo) advanced a third handline to side 3 due to heavy fire conditions. After the bulk of the fire was knocked down by the exterior lines, crews attempted to re-enter the structure from sides 1 and 3 but were met with significantly compromised stairs and floors. Walls were breached from the exposure 4 unit to gain access to the 3rd floor of the fire unit, enabling crews to perform a primary search and check for additional fire extension.  Engine 11 (Capt. Kenyon) pumped E-41's line, with their crew stretching a second line into the front door to the second floor. Ladder 1 (Lt. Fedorich) split their crew to the roof and interior searches. Truck 2 (FF Brown) split their crew to support ventilation on side 3 and check for fire extension to the exposure 4. Engine 21 (FF Turiello) assisted with breaching the walls from the exposure 4 unit. Rescues 3 (Lt. Goldberg) and 4 (Lt. Zeppetello) supported search and rescue activities, utilities, RIT, and overhaul. Baldwinsville handled the initial RIT, Clay and Belgium Cold Springs assisted with overhaul operations.  Several crews worked well into the morning overhauling hot spots and working with investigators.  Also assisting on the scene were NOVA (FF Rowland and FF Delong), Clay Police, Onondaga County Sheriff's Office, and National Grid

 

 

 

News10now.com
Fire destroys home on Christmas Day
Fire broke out at a family's town house on Burning Tree Road Monday morning at around 5:30 a.m. Fire fighters said it started in the basement, and by the time crews arrived, flames were already shooting out of the front door and they were forced to fight it from the outside. Steven Bressette of the Moyers Corners Fire Department said crews were able to save the eight other homes in the complex.  He said, "It could have been a lot worse, it could have traveled. Luckily it stayed in one town house and we were able to contain it."  The family lost everything in the fire. The cause of the blaze remains under investigation

 

December 31st, 2005
Efforts To Save A Life Will Not Be Forgotten
The Post-Standard
To the Editor:
I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to the volunteers of the Moyers Corners Fire Department and the Greater Baldwinsville Ambulance Corp. who worked so diligently to revive my husband, Doug Seamans, when he collapsed; and to my son, Jake Burns, who initially began CPR in an effort to keep his stepfather alive. You are all heroes, and your untiring efforts to save a life will not be forgotten. Thank you also to the doctors and nurses at St. Joseph's Hospital for their outstanding emotional care the evening of Nov. 14, and to Father John Werner for his presence and spiritual guidance as we waited for family members to arrive at the hospital. Thank you to the hundreds of people who have taken the time to comfort and support my family. The outpouring has been tremendous. And to the good people of Eric Mower and Associates, I am humbled by your kindness and generosity. You are the best. Lastly, thank you to the young men of the Seneca River South Little League baseball team for their moving tribute to Coach Seamans. You did Coach proud.

 

Darlene Seamans, Liverpool

 

Championship Softball Team

 

2006
Chief Steve Bressette
 First Deputy Chief: Ed Wisnowski
Second Deputy Chief Bud Neuman
Battalion 1 Chief Colin Bailey
Battalion 2 Chief Steve Race
Battalion 3 Chief Tim Chura
Station 1 Captain Mike Kenyon
Station 2 Captains Bob Driscoll, Mike G. Brown
Station 3 Captains Rick Howard, Eric Fritz
Station 4 Captain Frank Crispin
Station 1 Lieutenants: Mark Fedorich, Pete Klem
Station 2 Lieutenants: Jeff Belczak,Chris Naum,  Michael Normanly
Station 3 Lieutenants: Mitch Goldberg, Dennis Lyons, Mike J. Brown 
Station 4 Lieutenants: Jered Zeppetello, Steve Zaferakis 

 

Executive Board
 President John Perkins
Vice President Bud Neuman 
Secretary Jeff Izzo, Assistant Secretary Dan Izzo 
Treasurer Al Lane, Assistant Treasuer Fred Sears

 

Fire Police:  Captain Steve Rubacky, LieutenantDick Kyle

 

Bunk Ins: Brennan Dougherty, Matt Snyder, Bryan Rainville, Cody Thieme, Adam Maier, Josh Manning

 

 

 

Auxiliary: President Norma Guinta, Vice President Brenda Kennedy, Recording Secretary Jean Jones, Corresponding Secretary Kathleen Ordway, Treasurer Helen Schmid, Chaplain Kathleen Heighton

 

New Apparatus: 2006 Ford Super Duty,  2006 Pierce Quantum E21

 

 

 

January 12th, 2006

 

Station to be Renovated – Moyers Corners Fire Departmnet to use 1.2 Million on Station 1
The Post-Standard
By Pedro Ramirez
Moyers Corners fire officials hope that $1.2 million in renovation work to one of their fire stations will begin soon.  The Moyers Corners Fire Department is waiting for paperwork on a loan to be completed. Department officials hope that will happen in coming weeks so work can begin at the department's Fire Station No.1 on Route 57 just north of Route 31, said John Perkins, the department's newly-elected president. "We're ready to go to work as soon as the bank cuts us the money," Perkins said. The work includes everything from****reconfiguring the kitchen space to repairing the roof.  Perkins estimates the renovation work will take about four months. "The catch is, while (contractors) are doing the work," he said, "we still need to operate out of there. ... That station still needs to function and respond to calls." The Moyers Corners Fire Department, founded in 1948, is a 100 percent volunteer department. It responds to fire, rescue and emergency medical calls within 23 square miles in the town of Clay. Each year, the department responds to about 1,700 alarms out of four stations: Station No.1, Station No 2 at 7697 Morgan Road, Station No.3 at 7200 Henry Clay Blvd. and Station No.4 at 8044 Oswego Road. The station slated for renovations was built more than 30 years ago. Its facilities have not kept up with the times, Perkins said. "When it was built, we operated a lot differently than we do today," he said. Some of the changes will include downsizing the station's commercial-sized kitchen "We used to do a lot of different fundraisers where we used the commercial kitchen," Perkins said. Now, the department wants a smaller kitchen that will serve student firefighters staying at the station. Space will be reconfigured to make living space for the student firefighters, or bunk-ins, as they are called. The office, training and storage space will be changed. Some repairs are needed, too. For example, the roof and skylights have leaked for years, Perkins said. In early December, Clay town councilors approved a plan to let the volunteer fire department use the town's bonding authority to borrow $1.2 million for the station's renovations. The department is borrowing the money from J.P. Morgan Chase Bank. Borrowing the money through the town's bonding authority allows the fire department to get a lower interest rate on the loan, town officials said. The borrowing in no way obligates the town to pay off the bond nor would it affect Clay's credit rating, town Supervisor Mark Rupprecht has said. Perkins was not sure of the final terms of the loan, but expected that the department would extend the loan payments for at least 10 years.

 

January 23rd, 2006
A challengine dumpster fire?
www.mcfd.org
On Thursday January 19th 2006 at 2040, MCFD stations 1 & 4 were activated for a reported dumpster fire at the Great Northern Mall near the Bon Ton loading dock.  Members from all four stations were gathered at station 2 for the monthly meeting, and Car 1 approved a one engine response at that time.  MCFD E-11 (Lt. Fedorich) went en-route at 2042, and BC-1 (Bailey) added himself to the alarm after OCFC indicated the dumpster was close to the building.  At that time L-1 (Lt. Klem) was added to the box and went en route.

While these units were en route, OCFC indicated additional calls from mall security advising that the fire had extended and involved the structure.  At this time, a full structural response was requested which added MCFD stations 2, 3, and 4 along with an engine from Clay FD. BC Bailey arrived with heavy fire showing with the loading dock involved in fire.  E-11 arrived and secured a hydrant and stretched a 200' 1 3/4" line which was placed to protect the structure.  L-1 crew arrived and began an evacuation of the store (which was still open for business at the time and not evacuated).  E-41's crew (Capt. Crispin) brought in a second plug, stretched a 300' 1 3/4" line to assist with suppresion while R-4's crew (Lt. Zeppetello) checked for extension in the loading dock area.  E-32 (Lt. Goldberg) pumped E-11's hydrant and staged their manpower, while R-3 (Lt. Brown) took the RIT assignment.  MCFD T-2 (Lt. Belczak) took an assignment to go to the roof to check for extension while E-21 (Capt. Brown) and Clay E-21 went into staging.

The bulk of the fire was knocked down and crews verified that no extension had occurred, after first ensuring that all employees and shoppers had safely left the building.  A front end loader was used to pull the dumpster away from the building to provide better access to eliminate the hot spots.  The alarm was reduced after aprox. 30 minutes and first arriving units awaited OC FIU personnel.  The cause of the fire was determined to have been caused by store employees who discarded charcoal into the dumpster after a cook-out! Only minor damage was reported to the structure thanks to the quick response from MCFD and Clay FD units.BC Bailey had the command while C-1 (Bressette) had the interior sector , C-3 (Stevens) assisted at command.  Clay C-2 (Redhead) had the safety sector and Clay C-4 (Ford) assisted with fireground support

 

March 11th, 2006

 

They Came Back and Waited Until Help Arrived; Letters of Thanks
The Post-Standard
To the Editor: 
On March 4, I was at our Lady of Peace Cemetery in Liverpool, going to visit my husband's grave, when my car became stuck in the snow. Thank-you to Captain Mark Fedorich and Dan Stachurski of the Moyers Corners Fire Department Station No. 1 for trying to push my car out of the snow, and for letting me use their cell phone to call AAA. I told them I would be OK and they could go on with their work. They told me they would check back with me in a little while. They did come back, and stayed with me until AAA arrived. Thank you again, Mark and Dan, for all your help.
Joanne Czajkowski, Liverpool

 

March 27th, 2006
Minuteman Press Signal 99
www.mcfd.org
On Monday March 27 at 11:04 AM Moyer's Corners, Liverpool, Mattydale, and Belgium-Cold Springs Fire Departments were activated for a reported structure fire at 7570 Oswego Rd.  Initial reports indicated that flames and heavy smoke were coming from the roof and that the building had been evacuated.Initial units on scene declared a signal 99 with BC-2 (Race) running command and EM-312 (K. Wisely) running operations.  Minutes into the fire command stated that the warehouse portion of the fire would be fought by exterior operations since the roof had begun to collapse.  Additional resources were requested some to assist on the scene and others to stand by at Moyer’s Corners stations 1, 2, and 3.

News10now.com
Fire at Minuteman Press/Seaboard Graphics building
"It went up real fast." As Charles Tausend left Friendly's on Route 57 in Clay this is what he saw. When he realized it was a fire he was seeing his instincts kicked in. "When I looked i just saw a whole bunch of flames and smoke and people running so I got out of the car and ran over to make sure everyone made it out," said Charles Tausend, witness 24 people were working in the minuteman press and seaboard graphics building when the fire started, luckily everyone got out safely.  "I had two brave employees who tried to extinguish the fire, but when I saw how the fire was I told them to get out and called 911 immediately," said Larry Kuhn, president of the companies. "We knew that there were no lives inside to save so at this point it was an exercise in saving as much property as we could," said Stephen Race, Moyers Corners Battalion Chief. Firefighters say it started in the back portion of the building which was used for storage by the company. Larry Kuhn, the president of the companies, says that section was recently renovated at the tune of a million dollars. Most of the equipment in the front portion of the business was saved by firefighters which means employees will be moving it to their old location at Bayberry Plaza and they will continue working from there Tuesday morning.”We will re-build we've already called the contractors believe it or not and we will regroup and we'll be back better than ever," said Kuhn. Kuhn says the fire is devastating but is thankful only a building is lost. Investigators are now working to figure out what caused the fire.

 

March 28th, 2006
Fire victim to reopen today
As print shop burned Monday in Clay, owner made plans for business today
The Post Standard
Pedro Ramirez III
While firefighters were still battling a blaze that destroyed a warehouse and damaged a print shop office on Oswego Road in Clay Monday, the owner said he plans to be open for business by noon today in Bayberry Plaza. Larry Kuhn, president of Seaboard Graphics Minuteman Press CNY, moved into the former church at 7570 Oswego Road in November. Kuhn added a warehouse to store the company’s paper and clothing supplies. “I just spent $1 million on that building,” Kuhn said. By 12:45pm Monday, the warehouse was a charred shell – devastated by a fire that started about 11am in an upstairs loft, company employees said. While firefighters were battling the blaze, Kuhn was busy preparing to reopen his business across the parking lot in a storefront in Bayberry Plaza. He had to schedule the delivery of new offset printing equipment, paper and clothing apparel and have the phone lines connected and comuters, files and other equipment moved. About half of Kuhn’s 24 employees were expected to spend Monday night setting up the business, he said. None of the company’s 24 employees were injured. They evacuated the building before firefighters arrived, Kuhn and firefighters said. Just before 11am, workers noticed smoke and found the fire in an upstairs loft of the warehouse. Employees Jason Ray and Pat Gilbert tried putting out the fire with extinguishers. “We ran upstairs with extinguishers,” Ray said. “At that point it was contained in a small area.” Ray and Gilbert used as many as three extinguishers, but the fire continued spreading. “it was coming up the wall,” Kuhn said. “When I say that, I called 911.” When firefighters arrived minutes later, flames were shooting through the warehouse roof. Fire officials quickly determined that it was too dangerous inside the burning structure, said Stephen Race, a Moyers Corners battalion chief, so firefighters attacked the blaze from the outside. The fire traveled from the warehouse to the office at the front of the property. A portion of the office roof collapsed before firefighters halted the fire’s progress. At least six engines, four which were ladder trucks, were on the scene. As many as 100 volunteer firefighters responded, said Moyers Corners battalion chief Colin Bailey.

 

March 30th, 2006
Cococut Tree Drive Signal 98
www.mcfd.org
On Wednesday March 29 at 16:17 PM Moyer's Corners, Clay, Baldwinsville, and Belgium-Cold Springs Fire Departments were activated for a reported structure fire at 8212 Coconut Tree Dr.  The caller stated that smoke was coming from the eves of the garage and that no one appeared to be home. BC-3 (Chura) was the first unit on location, assumed command, and confirmed that light smoke was showing and that the nearest hydrant was located across the street.  E-41 (J. Zeppetello) picked up the hydrant pointed out by command and knocked down a small amount of fire in the garage. EM-312 (K. Wisely) supported command by running operations.  Rescue 4 (S. Zaferakis) performed forcible entry on Side A, primary search and rescue of the entire structure, and secured the outside utilities.  Engine 31 (E. Fritz) pulled a second line and assisted with overhaul.  Command called a signal 98 (contents of the garage) with the fire being out and crews started to ventilate.  All equipment was back in service roughly 30 minutes into the alarm

 

April 8th, 2006
Fatal Signal 80 rollover
www.mcfd.org
At 10:15 AM stations 1 and 4 were activated for a single vehicle rollover on North Bound Rt-481 at the Rt-31 exit ramp. Rescue 4 (Lt. Zeppetello) was the first unit on scene confirming a vehicle was on it's roof and was located just off the road. The Rescue's crew started patient extrication since 2 patients were still located in the car and requested an additional Engine and the State Police helicopter to the scene. Engine-11 (Capt. Fedorich) initally assumed command and the Engine's crew stood by with a handline while the rescue continued extrication. Car-3 (Stevens) took over command and Capt. Fedorich ran operations. Following the request for additional man power Engine 41 (Lt. Zaferakis), Squad-1 (Lt. Klem), Engine-22 (Capt. Brown), and Rescue-3 went enroute to the scene. Engine 41 supplemented Rescue 4, Squad-1 supplemented Engine-11's crew, Engine-22 responded to the Staples parking lot to set up the landing zone for the helicopter, and Rescue-3 went on a stand-by. Both patients were extricated in 10 minutes, the State Police helicopter was then cancelled, and NOVA tansported the patients to the hospital. The male patient was pronounced dead at the hospital at approximately 11 AM

 

April 21st, 2006
MCFD assists GBAC with a delivery
www.mcfd.org
Stations 1 and 4 were dispatched along with GBAC to 8313 Radian Path on April 21, 2006 for a maternity call. Station 2 was added to the box and responded with a level 4 paramedic to assist with the delivery. Squad 1 confirmed with Fire Control that the baby had been delivered at 0653

 

April 21st, 2006
Multiple alarm Signal 99 on Candlelight Circle
www.mcfd.org
On April 21, 2006 at 1416 Moyers Corners, Liverpool, and Mattydale responded to a reported structure fire at appartment 22 Candlelight Circle. Units in the area confirmed heavy smoke in the area. MCFD Car 3 (Stevens) assumed incident command, declared the call a signal 99 with heavy smoke and fire from side 3 of the structure, and requested a second alarm.  MCFD E-21 (FF D. Izzo) was the first apparatus on scene and began initial fire attack on side A of the structure. MCFD Squad-1 started RIT and was reassigned to operate a stang gun on side C. MCFD E-31 (FF J. Wiznowski) deployed a 2 1/2 line to building 22 to contain fire spread stopping the fire at the stairwell minimizing the fire damage to the end units of the building.  Detailed information is still being collected on the unit assignments and the agencies that were involved with this incident. Thank you to Shawn Eklund for providing the pictures in the attached photo gallery. Notes: FF Crowman pumped his first fire as the driver on E-21

 

April 22nd, 2006
Fire destroys Clay Apartment Complex
Post Standard
Pedro Ramirez III, Delen Goldberg
As many as 39 Clay residents today are trying to figure out how to pull their lives together after a quick-moving fire destroyed their apartments Friday. The fire at buildings 20,21 and 22 of Candlelight Lane Apartments was first reported at about 2:19pm, firefighters said. By late Friday, a third rotating shift of firefighters was still putting out hot spots and small fires in the buildings, which appear connected but are separated with fire retardant barriers. The barriers weren’t strong enough to keep the flames from spreading, said Moyers Corners Deputy Chief Edward Stevens. “If we leave right now, with the wind pickin g up, we’d be back at 4am for a fully involved structure fire,” Stevens said. Firefighters were recommending that building 21, where they believe the fire started, be demolished, Stevens said. County fire investigators have not yet determined the cause of the fire. None of the tenants at home when the fire broke out were injured, but one firefighter suffered a minor back injury. Several witnesses said they heard neighbors screaming fire. Some tenants were alerted by neighbors knocking on their doors. Some tenants stayed with relatives or friends Friday night; others accepted help from American Red Cross. Moyers Corners, Liverpool and Mattydale firefighters were the first to respond to the blaze at the apartment complex, located just south of John Glenn Boulevard between Route 57 and Morgan Road. “When they first arrived, there was heavy fire coming out of the second and third floor of the building,: said Tim Chura, a Moyers Corners battalion chief. “The fire had a really good start.” Friday’s fire was a half mile south of another major fire, at the Seaboard Graphics Minuteman Press CNY office at 7570 Route 57 on March 27th. Chura said the fire could have been worse if it had occurred in the middle of the night. “At 3am, that could have been very difficult trying to get everybody out,” he said. Firefighters rescued at least three pets from the burning building, Chura said. At least one cat escaped by jumping off of a balcony. A few distraught pet owners pleaded with firefighters to rescue their trapped pets. At one point, a firefighter climbed a ladder, broke through a window and pulled out a cat. About 19 of the building units were being rented, Chura said. As many as 11 fire departments responded with about 70 firefighters, Chura said.

 

39 people homeless after apartment fire
News10now.com
Three buildings, 19 apartments, and now 39 people without homes. "Inside the majority of the building, building 21 has had a couple floors collapse and a roof collapse in on top of it which makes the firefighting a little more difficult. Just because some of the debris is falling on top of the burning articles," said Tim Chura, Moyers Corners Battalion Chief. So they attacked the fire from the air and the ground. Tenants stood by watching as their homes when up in flames. "Well, we have family that we can stay with, but financially, you know I have stuff up there that can never be replaced," said tenant Michelle Powell. Powell is one of the lucky ones. She has renter's insurance. But one thing the insurance will never replace is her two cats.  "It's hard, it's hard," said Powell. Fire crews say they were able to rescue three pets from the buildings. One firefighter sustained a back injury, and one woman collapsed. Fire crews say it was due to heat exhaustion. The Red Cross is now working to help people get back on their feet. "We deal with people all the time and their losses. It is pretty hard for us no matter whether it is the first one or the hundredth. We are just trying to help these people pick up the pieces. And you know get their life back together," said Mike Kinahan of the American Red Cross.  Chura says this time they were lucky. He says if it had happened in the middle of the night it could have been a much different story. Fire investigators are now looking into what caused the fire.

 

April 23rd, 2006
Busy weekend for MCFD continues with another 99
www.mcfd.org
Just past 11PM on April 22, 2006 MCFD, Clay, and Phoenix were activated for a reported house fire with a possibility of people trapped at 3588 Horseshoe Island Road. EM C-2 and Phoenix's Chief were the first to arrive and confirmed a fully involved house. BC-1 (Bailey) was the first MCFD until on scene and he ran Incident Command. MCFD E-11 (Capt. Fedorich) arrived minutes into the fire and began an exterior defensive operation with the 300 foot 2 1/2 since the roof of the building had already collapsed. MCFD E-41 (Capt. Crispin) arrived just after E-11 with Capt Crispin assuming the incident Operations Officer and the crew pulled additional handlines. MCFD C-3 (Stevens) was the incident Safety Officer and MCFD C-1 was the Public Information Officer. 

Since the house was located on a narrow dirt road, BC-2 (Race) took over the role of Staging Officer and set up a staging area at the end of the dirt road nearly 2000 ft from the incident. Multiple units went into staging including Phoenix Truck 1, Baldwinsville R-6, MCFD E-22 (Capt. Driscol), MCFD R-4 (FF Sears), MCFD R-3 (Capt. Fritz), MCFD L-1 (FF Bittel), and MCFD Squad-1 (FF Buss). The majority of these crews assisted in the overall fire operations. MCFD E-11 was the last apparatus to leave the scene, at nearly 3:30 AM, once the Onondaga County Fire Investigators completed the investigation.  Notes: MCFD E-11 responded for Clay since they were at Clay Station 2 on stand-by.... FF Byer pumped his first fire as the driver of E-11.... There was a report of people being trapped inside the structure but as it turns out no one was inside the building

 

April 23rd, 2006
Clay home destroyed by fire
News10now.com
fire in Clay destroys a home and leaves at least one person homeless. It happened around 11 p.m. Saturday on Horseshoe Island Road. When firefighters arrived on the scene they say most of the home had already collapsed. There was some question whether or not someone was in the home. Moyers Corners Fire Chief Steven Bressette said, "Initially, there was a report that no one was in the building. Then we had a report someone was inside, we have confirmed no one was in the structure." Investigators are still looking for a cause. The fire chief says it is possible the fire started in the kitchen area.

 

May 1st, 2006
Overnight basement fire helt at a 98
www.mcfd.org
At 00:41 hours on Thursday, April 27, 2006, the Moyers Corners Volunteers were again alerted for the House Fire, with a fire alarm heard in the background at 7633 Fitzpatrick Drive in the Battalion 3 first due.  Car 1 arrived and reported smoke showing from the front door of a single family, wood frame and assumed the Moyers Corners Command.  Truck 2 (Lt. Belczak) arrived first due right behind the chief, positioned on Side 1 and went to work splitting the crew for searches and horizontal ventilation.  Engine 31 (Capt. Fritz) arrived shortly thereafter on Side 1 with their own plug and put a single 1.75 line into service in the basement.  This is where they encountered a small fire in a laundry/utility room of the 3 level split.  Within 6 minutes of the companies arrival, units reported fire knocked down.  Engine 21 (Lt. Normanly) and Engine 32 (Lt. Brown) both brought supply lines into the scene from opposite directions and pulled the back-up line to the floor above the fire.  That crew confirmed no extension while the truck confirmed negative results on the primary searches and units were held for ventiltion and overhaul.  Engine 41 (Capt. Crispin) secured the utilities and performed additional duties.  Meanwhile, the Engine 32 crew performed and confirmed negative results on the secondary search. Ladder 1 (Capt. Fedorich) arrived and assumed RIT assignment. 

During this alarm, Moyers Corners ran alarm 590 to the Wegmans complex on Taft Road for the fire alarm.  Initial crews responding on MOF 590 included, E22 (Capt. Brown),  E11 (FF Bittel), and Mattdale Rescue 1 (redirected from the staging).

Within an hour and a half, the Moyers Corners units were returned back to service

 

May 12, 2006
Rescue 3 assists NSFD to extricate one
www.mcfd.org
At 1205 hours Friday, May 12th, 2006 - the North Syracuse Fire Department was activated for a Signal 80 Rollover at Rt. 481S and Rt. 81S.  Additional information provided that a tractor-trailer rolled over on the off ramp from 481S to 81S, with the tractor reported to be smoking. NAVAC Ambulance arrived confirming the tractor-trailer was on its side with one to extricate.  Shortly there after, NSFD Car 2 (Brennan) arrived on scene and assumed command.  NSFD Rescue 7 and Engine 6 arrived and began vehicle stabilization, extrication and fire suppression.  NSFD Command requested an additional Rescue [MCFD] and an Engine [Mattydale] to the scene.  MCFD Rescue 3 (Lt. Goldberg) was supplemented by MCFD Squad 2 (FF Buss/Croman) and MCFD B/C 2 (Race).  The patient was extricated from the vehicle after 77mins and air lifted by the NYS Police Helicopter to University Hospital. The crews from MCFD were on scene for approximately 2 hours before returning to service

 

June 12th, 2006
Asphalt tank catches on fire
News10Now.com
If you saw smoke in the Clay area Monday afternoon it was coming from the former Cibro Asphalt Terminal on Maider Road. A million-gallon tank once filled with liquid tar caught fire -- now just containing some remnants. Firefighters were able to get it under control in about 20 minutes. A contractor was at the site working to disassemble that tank and four others, but it's unclear what sparked the fire.The DEC is investigating, but the fire is not believed to pose a health threat for people living in the area.Edward Stevens, Moyers Corners deputy fire chief, said the right agencies have notified of the situation."County and emergency management have been notified,” Stevens said. “The hazmat special operations team has come in an evaluated the area. We also required and notified our DEC representatives.”DEC officials are expected to check the area to make sure it does not pose a health threat.

 

June 13th, 2006
Firefighters Douse Blaze at Clay Storage Tank
The Post-Standard
One of the old storage tanks at the former Cibro asphalt plant on Maider Road in Clay caught fire Monday as crews were tearing it down.  No injuries were reported in the fire. Moyers Corners firefighters responded about 2:45 p.m. to the blaze at 3414 Maider Road, Clay's Three Rivers Point.  Within minutes, firefighters had the blaze under control. In October, the town of Clay hired JWJ Industries, of Mexico, to remove the tanks. The 66-acre site has been designated by the state Department of Environmental Conservation as a brownfield. The town bought the property for $2 in 2002.

 

 

 

June 21st, 2006
Companies to Liverpool on 2nd alarm apartment fire
www.mcfd.org
On Monday, June 19, 2006 at 05:32 hours, the Volunteers from Moyers Corners Station 3 were dispatched mutual assistance to the Liverpool Fire District for the reported structure fire at 16 Town Garden Drive in the Village of Liverpool.  At 05:35 hours, a police unit arrived to report the building fully engulfed.  At 05:36 hours, Liverpool Car 4 arrived, gave the working fire request and signaled a 2nd alarm.  

Within 7 minutes of dispatch, Moyers Corners E32 (Capt. Fritz) arrived as the first due engine company, proceeded to side Delta and began initial suppression. The crew from E32 also performed a search of the effected second floor apartment and overhaul.  Moyers Corners E22 (Lt. Belczak) arrived as the 4th due engine (2nd Alarm Assignment) and secured the supply line dropped by Liverpool E5.  The E22 crew was then split and assigned the primary searches on the 2nd and 3rd levels, with negative results found.  Moyers Corners E22 returned to service at 07:41 hours.  Addtional units that asssisted on-scene were Moyers Corners BC 2 (Chief Race) and Squad 4 (performing overhaul). Moyers Corners E32 cleared around 0800 due to mechanical issues

 

July 9th, 2006
MCFD Engine 32 assists at Souther Tier flood
www.mcfd.org
 A crew from Moyers Corners FD provided assistance to the flooded areas in the Southern Tier of New York as part of a Response Task Force from Onondaga County.  Moyers Corners Engine 32 joined a Rescue-Pumper form Jordan, a Tanker from Delphi Falls, a Rescue from Kirkville, and a Squad from Warners under the leadership of Deputy Coordinator Dave Cowburn.  Engine 32 was staffed with firefighters Adam Croman, Matt Anderson, John Perkins and Lt. Jeff Belczak.  The Task Force operated out of Conklin Fire Station #2 on July 3rd and 4th providing Fire Department response capabiliity while Conklin FD and other mutual aid units from around the state addressed issues caused by the flooding from the previous week.

 

August 3rd, 2006
Extrication on Route 57 near Wetzel Road
www.mcfd.org
At around 13:00 hrs. Moyers Corners was dispatched to a motor vehicle accident in front of Four Seasons car wash for a report of a two vehicle accident with the possibility of three trapped. Upon arrival Engine 22 (Capt. Driscoll) reported two vehicles with one trapped and extrication would be required. Upon Rescue 4 and Rescue 3's arrival, Lt. Zeppetello (R4) determined that due to the dash pinning both the passengers legs, roof removal and both front doors would need to be removed quickly. After gaining enough access on the passenger side between the "B" post and the crushed "A" post, a short ram was needed to gain the much needed space for removal of the passenger. All hands were working and after approximately 20 minutes, the patient was extricated and transported by NOVA ambulance

 

August 24th, 2006
Firefighters Come Through For Honorary Member
The Post-Standard
By Pedro Ramirez III
At a recent meeting, Moyers Corners firefighters made a 4-year-old boy battling leukemia an honorary member of the department. Cole Lancer was diagnosed with the disease in November. During treatment, Cole made a wish through the Make-A-Wish Foundation that he wanted to be a firefighter. Cole's father, Brian Lancer , a former member of the Moyers Corners Fire Department, knew he could help his son realize that dream. During the recent meeting, Cole seemed a bit nervous before an audience of about 60 firefighters, including Battalion Chief Timothy Chura and Capt. Eric Fritz . Chura and Fritz presented the young boy with his own turnout coat and helmet as well as a Moyers Corners Fire Department badge. The number on the badge was the same one Cole's father carried when he was a firefighter. Cole was assigned a locker at Station 3 on Morgan Road so he can store his gear. Cole has made several visits to the fire station. His father recently wrote a thank you letter to the fire department for helping Cole realize his dream. "Cole got to explore the fire engines and rescue truck as if they were his own toys at home. He got to sit in the driver's seat with the emergency lights on pretending he was on his way to a fire," Cole's father wrote. "This put the biggest smile I have seen in months on his face. ... As a parent, I could not have been happier to see my son full of joy and happiness. "Cole has been so brave through his fight against cancer," he added. "He deserved this wish more than anything."

 

September 18th, 2006
Market Fair North Route 31 vehicle rollover
www.mcfd.org
On Saturday September 16th, 2006, at approximately 12:30 pm, MCFD Stations 1 and 4 were activated for a vehicle accident at the entrance to Market Fair North on Route 31. Reports indicated that a SUV had rolled over and numerous occupants were trapped inside.  MCFD Car 1 (Bressette) and Battalion 1 (Bailey) arrived on the scene first, requesting an Engine from Clay FD to the scene. Rescue 4 (Lt. Zaferakis) arrived and determined that the driver of the rolled-over SUV was trapped and needed extrication. Engine 41 (Lt. Zeppetello) supplemented Rescue 4's crew while Engine 11 (Capt. Fedorich) was assigned scene safety, assisting Rescue 4, and protecting the scene with a charged handline.  Crews from Clay FD Engine 21 and Rescue 3 also assisted MCFD Rescue 4.  The driver’s side of the SUV was resting against a traffic signal pole, and access to that side was further hindered by a pulled electrical meter from the impact. Access to the patient was gained by removal of  both passenger doors, the "B" post, the passengers seat, and the back of the driver's seat. Total extrication time was 45 minutes.  Ambulance crews handled patient care and transport of the 5 children that were were removed from the rolled-over SUV by a passer-by and two patients from the second vehicle while fire crews performed heavy extrication. An excellent team effort with a calculated approach allowed for the safe removal of the patient
The Post Standard
Helping Hands Aid in Crash
By Robert A. Baker
Firefighters, good Samaritans pull 8 victims from vehicles…
A two-vehicle crash at the entrance to a Clay shopping mall Saturday sent six children and two women to local hospitals. One of the drivers was trapped in an upside-down SUB for about 45 minutes. The crash occurred about 12:30 p.m. at the entrance of Marketfair North plaza across Rotue 31 from the Great Northern Mall, state Trooper Jack Keller said. A whie Mercury Mountaineer SUV was heading east on Route 31 when it was struck by a white Chrysler Sebring turning into the strip mall, Keller said. The impact spun the SUV into a high curb, causing the SUV to flip onto its roof and wedge the driver’s side into a pole supporting traffic lights, Keller said. The driver of the Chrysler was identified by Keller as Davene A. Benzel, 42. Also in her car was her son Zachary, 8. Troopers were unsure of her address. Both were taken to Crouse Hospital with minor injuries. The Mountaineer’s driver was identified by Keller as Denise Vecchiarelli, 33, of Cicero. In the SUV were her two 12-year-olds, a 7-year old, a 6-year-old and a 4-year-old, Keller said. They were not all her children and everyone was taken to University Hospital with minor injuries, Keller said. As soon as the vehicles came to rest, people ran to the wrecks and began helping, said witness Karen Tebidor, of Clay. Tebidor made her way to one of the vehicles but told her son Tom, 14, not to approach it. “I was sure we were going to run up to something awful,” Tebidor said. Dan Duff, of Lysander, crawled into the SUV to help the children get out. His elbows and arms were bleeding from the effort. “They were crying and I coaxed them to come out the window because they wanted to stay with their mom,” Duff said. Rescue works used an area on the alwn in front of Marketfair North to treat the five children from the SUV as firefighters worked to get the driver out. One little girl wore a Cicero cheerleading uniform and a boy had on a soccer uniform. “It loks like they were coming back from a sporting event,” Keller said. Tebidor said one of the older children in theSUV refused help until the younger children were out of the car and hlped keep them calm when she did get out. About 70 watched the rescue of Vecchiarelli from in front of Marketfair North and about 20 more were across the street. Firefighters used hydraulic tools to free Vecchiarelli, whose legs were pinned under the dash, in an operation that took about 45 minutes. When the firefighters freed Vecchiarelli and put her in an ambulance, the crown applauded.

 

September 28th, 2006
MCFD captures 1st place softball titles
www.mcfd.org
The 2006 Moyers Corners Fire Department Softball Team defeated Baldwinsville FD Team 1 by a score of 8-6 last night, capturing the Northern Section Firefighter's Softball League Playoff Championships. MCFD also took 1st Place in the regular season with an 11-1 record. 2006 MVP Jeff Belczak delivered what turned out to be the game winning single in the bottom of the six by scoring in two go-ahead runs. The defense once again shined holding the hard hitting Bville team to 6 runs, and shutting down the top of the line-up in the seventh inning. Congratulations to MCFD on another fantastic season!

 

October 6th, 2006
MCFD Explorer Post 209 Back In Action 
www.mcfd.org

 

The Moyers Corners Fire Department officially re-chartered their Explorer Post 209 Thursday night when a kick-off meeting was held with the Hiawatha Seaway Council’s Learning For Life. Martin Mau, a representative from Learning For Life, was on hand to help the MCFD welcome their new explorers and review the program’s future plans and current documents.  Also present were Department Chiefs, The MCFD Explorer Post Committee, explorers, and parents. 
     Explorer Post 209 has roots that run deep within the Moyers Corners Fire Department. Our current Department Chief, Steve Bressette, once held the position of Chief within the Explorer Post.  Battalion Chief Race and Deputy Chief Stevens were also products of Explorer Post 209.  The Post was started in 1968, making it one of the first Fire Service Explorer Program in Onondaga County.  Hundreds of past explorers have graduated the program only to become firefighters and line officers with the Moyers Corners Fire Department. A handful of Explorers have also become successful career firefighters.  This program definitely a great steppingstone for teenagers looking to join the fire service.
     In January 2006, the MCFD Explorer Post 209 Committee was tasked by the Chief to re-establish the Post. The Post had been idle and inactive for two years prior.  After some positive discussions with the Hiawatha Seaway Council’s Learning For Life, we were on our way.  The Explorer Committee then started the long and arduous task of writing Constitutional By-Laws, SOP’s, and fulfilling the requirements as laid out by the Hiawatha Seaway Council.   The Moyers Corners Fire Department would like to welcome the Explorer Post 209 back into its organizational structure, as well as welcome Stephen Wisely (Station 1), Rich Kenyon (Station 1), and Chris Myers (Station 2) to the Post

 

 

 

October 19th, 2006

 

Moyers Corners Welcomes 10 Recruits

 

The Post-Standard

 

By Pedro Ramirez III
Ten new members of the Moyers Corners Fire Department began their training in September in what fire officials say is the largest class of new recruits in years.  Chief Steve Bressette welcomed the new members at the orientation session held on Sept. 30.  During the day, the new members were issued turn-out gear. The training included classes on the department's organizational structure, operating procedures and safety training.  "It was an exciting first day for all the new members who are taking their first step toward becoming firefighters," said Battalion Chief Tim Chura .  Chura said that the new probationary firefighters must undergo seven weeks of strenuous training. They also must take the state's Firefighter I course within the next year, he said.  The new members are: Jon Clements , Dustin Saddock , Brian Skipworth , Kevin Chura, David Ward , James Trudell , Dominick Daloia , Pascal Field , Joseph Montague and Kevin McGowan .  The Moyers Corners Fire Department is still looking for new members. Anyone who might be interested can call the department's business office at 652-7733.

 

 

 

 

 

November 2nd, 2006

 

Junior Firefighters Back in Action at Moyers Corners

 

The Post-Standard

 

By Pedro Ramirez III
Last month, the Moyers Corners Fire Department resurrected its junior firefighter program after about two years of inactivity.  The department's Explorer Post 209 was officially rechartered Oct. 5, says Lt. Steve Zaferakis , one of the post's advisers.  The post has three junior firefighter members, Stephen Wisely, Rich Kenyon and Chris Myers , and is looking for more, Zaferakis said. The junior firefighter program is a great stepping stone for teens looking to join the fire service, Zaferakis says on the Moyers Corners Web site at www.mcfd.org .  Post 209 was started in 1968, making it one of the first fire service Explorer programs in Onondaga County, Zaferakis said.  In January, Moyers Corners officials organized a committee to re-establish the post. In the process, the committee reworked the post's bylaws and operating procedures.  Youth interested in joining the post must be at least 14 years old or have graduated eighth grade. For more information or to download a membership application, check out the Moyers Corners Web site.

 

 

 

 

 

2007
Chief Steve Bressette
 First Deputy Chief: Ed Wisnowski
Second Deputy Chief Bud Neuman
Battalion 1 Chief Colin Bailey
Battalion 2 Chief Steve Race
Battalion 3 Chief Tim Chura
Station 1 Captain Mark Fedorich
Station 2 Captains Bob Driscoll, Mike G. Brown
Station 3 Captains Eric Fritz, Mitch Goldberg
Station 4 Captain Frank Crispin
Station 1 Lieutenants: Pete Klem, Jason Perkins
Station 2 Lieutenants: Jeff Belczak, Michael Normanly, Daniel Izzo
Station 3 Lieutenants: Mike J. Brown, Jeff Wisely, Mike Wick
Station 4 Lieutenants: Jered Zeppetello, Steve Zaferakis 

 

Executive Board
 President John Perkins
Vice President Ken Filow 
Secretary Jeff Izzo, Assistant Secretary Kevin Walsh 
Treasurer Fred Sears, Assistant Treasuer Adam Croman

 

Fire Police:  Captain Steve Rubacky, Lt. Dick Kyle

 

Bunk Ins: Andy Brown, Bryon Laclair, Bryan Rainville, Dustin Prievo, Brandon Rundle, Tyler Drake, Nathan Paquin, Joe Signorelli, Matt Zabek

 

Auxiliary: President Norma Guinta, Vice President Brenda Kennedy, Recording Secretary Laura Goodson, Corresponding Secretary Kathleen Ordway, Treasurer Helen Schmid, Chaplain Kathleen Heighton

 

 

 

Station 1 Grand Opening

 

 

 

February 21st, 2007

 

Daytime Signal 99 in Solvay sends Engine 22

 

www.mcfd.org
On Monday, February 19, 2007 at 12:05, the volunteers from Moyers Corners Station 2 were dispatched on the Signal 99 at 102 William Street in the Solvay Fire District. Engine 22 (Capt. Driscoll) and Car 3 (DC Neuman) arrived within 13 minutes of dispatch and was advised to stage 1 block from the incident. Shortly thereafter, the crew was then assigned the 2nd floor to check for any potential extension. The crews from Solvay and neighboring departments made quick work of a fire in the walls of a balloon frame structure. Moyers Corners units returned to service at 13:05 hours. On the way back, the E22 crew was dispatched to Mistrall Knolls to clear a fire hydrant for a concerned citizen who called 911. This is a reminder to all residential and commercial properties in our fire district, please help us by clearing your nearest fire hydrants. Even if the hydrant is not in your front yard, it may be used at your home or business. We need and appreciate your help…

 

 

 

February 21st, 2007

 

Structural collapse in Battalion 2

 

www.mcfd.org

 

On Saturday, February 17, 2007 at 0844 hours, the volunteers from all 4 Moyers Corners stations were dispatched for the structural collapse with a natural gas leak at 4483 Buckley Road in the Battalion 2 first due. Within minutes, Car 1 (Chief Bressette) arrived in the complex, assumed command and reported a structural collapse with a natural gas leak. E21 (Lt. Belczak) arrived shortly thereafter at the Buckley road entrance, coordinated a split lay which was picked up by E41 (Lt. Zeppetello) and laid a supply line up the driveway. E31 arrived and stood by at the nearest additional water supply. Meanwhile, TK2 (Lt. Izzo) and Rescue 4 (Capt. Crispin) arrived and secured all available (and cleared of snow) utilities to the collapsed structure. LD 1 (Capt Fedorich) staged at the scene. Units operated for approximately an hour and 20 minutes before returning to service. Units operating included E21, E41, E31, TK2, R4, LD1, Car 1, Car 2, BC1, and BC2. This is a reminder to all commercial and residential properties in our fire district, please ensure that all of your utilities (gas, electric, and water) are accessible and labeled for easy access and control by the fire dept

 

 

 

March 27th, 2007

 

Boatwatch Circle structure fire

 

www.mcfd.org
On Sunday March 25th at approximately 1915 hours, the Moyers Corners Fire Department was dispatched to a reported structure fire on Boatwatch Circle in the Battalion One response area. Initial reports indicated that there was heavy smoke and active fire evident from the rear of the townhouse. Car 3 (Neuman) arrived first, assumed initial command, confirmed the initial reports, and held with a 'signal 98 for now'. Car 1 (Bressette) arrived second and assumed interior sector operations. Engine 41 (Lt. Zaferakis) was first due, bringing in the plug and pulling a 1 3/4" line to the number two floor. Engine 11 (Lt. Klem) arrived second and backed up Engine 41's crew with a 2" line. The attack crews were met with heavy fire on the second floor, and relayed that to Command. A signal 99 was now struck. Rescue 4 (FF Zaferakis) met up with the attack crews, completed a primary search and assisted with overhaul. As crews were attacking fire in the bedroom, bathroom, and common hallway, Ladder 1 (Capt. Fedorich) and Truck 2 (FF Rowland) combined for a collective laddering and utilities effort. Rescue 3 (Lt. Brown) covered the RIT assignment. Battalion 3 (Chura) was the third chief on scene and assisted in the command post. Battalion 2 (Race) was the fourth chief on scene and assumed the safety officer role. The fire was contained to the room of origin and the attached bathroom, taking approximately 30 minutes to extinguish. A well coordinated attack contributed to stopping any spread of fire. Crews remained on the scene until 2330 as the task of overhaul was cumbersome due to the deplorable conditions found inside the structure. The Red Cross assisted with finding the resident (who escaped uninjured) a place after the fire
The Post Standard
Firefighters battled blaze in Clay Sunday night
Pedro Ramirez III
Moyers Corners firefighters battled a blaze at a townhouse on Boatwatch Drive in Clay Sunday night. Firefighters were called to the scene at about 7:15 p.m. after reports came in of heavy smoke and a fire in a rear bedroom. When firefighters arrived minutes later, they discovered that the fire had spread to another room. The fire was extinguished within 30 minutes and was contained to the bedroom, bathroom, and common hallway, Moyers Corners firefighters said. One woman escaped from the fire without injury, firefighters said. Crews remained on the scene until about 11:30 p.m.

 

May 23rd, 2007

 

Rescue 3 to Liverpool to extricate one

 

www.mcfd.org

 

On May 23, 2007 at 0835 MCFD Rescue 3 responded mutual aid to Liverpool FD to extricate one. Upon arrival, the crews from Liverpool and Moyers Corners found two vehicles off the roadway. One vehicle was resting on it's side and on the other vehicle. The crew from Rescue 3 made quick work of the roof after stabilization and extricated the patient to an awaiting Rural Metro Ambulance. The total extrication time was under 11 minutes. B/C Race and B/C Chura were also on scene

 

 

 

May 28th, 2007

 

Engine 12 takes in tractor fire

 

www.mcfd.org

 

Sunday, May 27, 2007- At approximately 1515 hours the volunteers of Moyers Corners Station 1 were dispatched to a reported fire of a farm tractor, with reports that the tractor could explode. Engine 12 responded with a crew of 4 lead by Capt. Fedorich, and Battalion Chief 1 (Bailey) responded as the Command officer. Upon arrival they found a large farm mower on fire with extension to a nearby field, both located about a ¼ mile from the road. With a quick suppression effort by the crew only a small portion of the field and the mower were damaged. By 1545 hours the Engine was in quarters and back into service

 

 

 

July 28th, 2007

 

Kitchen fire damages home in Clay

 

Robert A. Baker

 

The Post Standard
A Clay family of four was temporarily homeless after their Wetzel Road house was damaged by flames Saturday afternoon, fire officials said. The fire began in the kitchen. It was reported about 12:45 p.m. at 4837 Wetzel Road, said Tim Chura, battalion chief for the Moyers Corners Fire Department. It began when food was left on the stove and the fire spread toward the second floor, Chura said. The house was occupied at the time of the fire by at least one member of the family but none of the family were injured, Chura said. One firefighter was treated for heat problems, Chura said. The house sustained fire damage at the back and smoke and water damage throughout, but Chura said the house is repairable.  He said the family was being helped by the American Red Cross.

 

 

 

July 28th, 2007

 

Signal 99 – Wetzel Road

 

www.mcfd.org
At 1239 on Saturday July 28th, 2007 the volunteers of the Moyers Corners Fire Department were alerted to a possible kitchen fire at 4378 Wetzel Road.  E-11 (Capt. Fedorich) was on the air at Seneca Mall on a Fire Prevention detail with a five man crew and went en route almost immediately.  BC 3 (Chura) and BC 1 (Bailey) also quickly answered up for the alarm.   BC 3 arrived and reported smoke showing with a hydrant in the front yard.  As crews were assembling at all four stations, E-11 arrived, secured a water supply, and made a quick size up of the fire after confirming that all residents were safely out of the structure.  The bulk of the fire was located in the C/D corner of a 1 ½ story wood frame, Cape style home.  A 200’ 1 ¾” attack line was quickly stretched to side C as the signal 99 was struck.    E-11’s crew was making entry as E-21(Lt. Izzo) quickly arrived and secured a second water supply and stretched a 2” line to support E-11’s crew.  The seat of the fire was located and fire suppression began as E-41(Lt. Zaferakis) arrived 3rd due and stretched a 1 3’4” line to the front door.  Upon noting that fire conditions were improving, E-41 quickly transitioned to conduct a primary search of the structure, which was clear.  At about that time, BC Bailey reported that the fire was knocked down.

 

1. Unfortunately, several family pets perished but a family of hamsters were safely removed from the structure, to be reunited with the residents! MCFD did return to the scene later in the day to mop up hot spots

 

August 7th, 2007

 

Fire destroys Admiral Drive house in Clay

 

Joy Crocker, Post Standard
Fire this evening destroyed a house at 7715 Admiral Drive in Clay. The house is pretty much a total loss, said Moyers Corners Fire Chief Steven Bressette. Flames were coming out of the building when firefighters arrived shortly before 6:30 p.m., he said. Two people were home when the fire began, said Richard Blansett, director of public support for the Red Cross' Onondaga-Oswego chapter. The Red Cross is helping the family of four. Two firefighters were treated for heat exhaustion, Bressette said. There were no other injuries. About 70 firefighters from Moyers Corners and Mattydale responded. The cause of the fire is being investigated.

 

 

 

News10Now.com
A fire destroys a Clay home. By the time crews got there, flames were already coming out of the windows.It happened at this home on Admiral Drive around 6:30pm. No one was injured, but a couple of firefighters were treated for heat exhaustion. The Moyers Corners Fire Chief tells us it took them about 20 minutes to get the fire under control.  "We had heavy fire coming out the back window, the back door as well as the front, and then the second floor, flames were coming out the windows as well," said Moyers Corners Fire Chief Steven Bressette. The home is a loss, no word on whether anyone was home at the time.  Investigators are still trying to determine a cause.
The fire chief says there have been an unusually large number of fires in Onondaga County in the past week.

 

August 7th, 2007

 

Heavy fire on Admiral Drive

 

www.mcfd.org

 

On Tuesday August 7th, 2007 at approximately 1830 hours, the Moyers Corners Fire Department was dispatched to a report fire on Admiral Drive in the Battalion Two response area. Engine 41 (Crispin) was first on the scene and reported heavy fire showing. They quickly transmitted a “Signal 99” to fire control. Car 1 arrived second, confirmed the Signal 99, and established command

 

 

 

August 8th, 2007

 

Four MCFD crews on B’vill Multi-Alarm fire

 

www.mcfd.org

 

On Monday, August 6, 2007, the volunteers from Moyers Corners provided 4 companies to a 4 plus alarm fire in the Village of Baldwinsville.  Units from Moyers Corners responded as follows to the multi-alarm fire: E12 (Lt. Perkins) responded on the 2nd alarm with the initial assignment of providing horizontal ventilation on the “A” side.  After clearing the rehab sector, the E12 crew was assignment to the “C” side with the assignment of ventilation.  Due to changing conditions, that assignment was quickly changed to fire suppression.  After another rehab stint, the crew was again assigned to manpower where they staged until further assignments could be given.  The E12 crew returned to service at 12:30. E41 (FF Goodson) also responded on the 2nd alarm assignment as the R.I.T. company.  On arrival, the crew was assigned to the “A-B” corner as the R.I.T. Company.  The crew continued with their assignment for over 3 hours until they were assigned horizontal ventilation of the “B” exposure.  Their R.I.T. assignment was subsequently filled by the arriving companies.  Once their assignment was completed, the company was sent to manpower and subsequently returned to service. TK 2 (Capt. Driscoll) responded on the 3rd alarm dispatch and took side “A” and was originally assigned vertical ventilation.  Vertical ventilation consisted of 5 layers of various roofing materials (paper, sand, rocks, metal, concrete), all of which took several saws and blades to complete.  During the roof operations, the truck crew also threw (2) 35’, (2) 28’, (1) 20’ roof ladder, and (1) 16’ roof ladder to all levels on side “A” of the fire building and side “A” of the “B” and “D” exposures.  After the roof assignment, the truck with the assistance of the Fairmount truck company performed horizontal ventilation of the “B” exposure.  The crew was then sent to rehab before returning to perform salvage operations of the “D” exposure.  The TK2 crew returned to service at 14:45 hours. R3 (Capt. Goldberg) responded on the 4th alarm dispatch and was assigned R.I.T. on the entire “C” side of the block.  They also performed several duties in connection with the Baldwinsville Truck Company on side “C”.  R3 returned to service at 13:30 hours. Moyers Corners Car 3 (D/C Neuman) responded to assist MCFD crews on the fire ground.  The Chief was also assigned the Safety sector during the alarm

 

 

 

October 16th, 2007

 

One injured in Horseshoe Island fire

 

Joy Crocker

 

The Post Standard
One woman was taken to a hospital after a fire tonight on Horseshoe Island in Clay.  The homeowner was the only person inside the house at 3476 Horseshoe Island Road, said Stephen Race, a battalion chief with the Moyers Corners Fire Department. She inhaled smoke, and was taken to St. Joseph's Hospital Health Center as a precaution, he said.  The one-story ranch was seriously damaged by the fire, which the woman reported to 911 about 7:44 p.m., Race said. The cause remains under investigation.

 

 

 

October 22nd 2007
Drunken firefighter shot another firefighter, deputies say

 

Mike McAndrew

 

The Post Standard 
A drunken Moyers Corners firefighter accidentally shot another firefighter Sunday night at the fire station, a sheriff's department spokesman said. Stanley R. Memmelaar, 26, accidentally shot Tyler Drake, 21, of Alexandria Bay, in the right arm, said Sgt. John D'Eredita. Memmelaar was recklessly handling his .45 caliber handgun when it discharged at 6:44 p.m. inside the station at 8481 Oswego Road in Clay, D'Eredita said. The bullet hit Drake in the right arm and chest area. Medics at the firehouse tended to Drake's injury. He was transported to University Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Deputies expected him to be treated and released from the hospital. A nursing supervisor said Sunday night the hospital had no information on Drake. Memmelaar, of 5612 Bun Bury Terrace, was intoxicated at the time of the incident, according to D'Eredita. Detectives investigating the incident will charge Memmelaar with reckless endangerment and assault, both felonies, and with driving while intoxicated, D'Eredita said. Deputies planned to arraign him on those charges in Clay town court. Detectives took Memmelaar's gun. Memmelaar had a valid pistol license.

 

A volunteer firefighter is accused of accidentally shooting a fellow volunteer at Moyers Corners Fire Station One on Route 57 in Clay. The shooting happened inside the firehouse just after 6:30pm Sunday. Deputies charged Stanley Memmelaar, 26, with reckless endangerment, assault and DWI. Investigators say Memmelaar accidentally shot Tyler Drake, 21, in the arm and chest while they were at Station One Sunday night. Deputies say Memmelaar was drunk when he accidentally pulled the trigger.  Drake is expected to recover from his wounds, investigators said.  The Onondaga County Sheriff's Department says Memmelaar was a Sheriff's Deputy recruit, but failed to successfully complete the field portion of his training. The Sheriff's Department would not say why, only that he was let go in August.

 

 

 

October 22nd, 2007

 

Working fire on the island

 

www.mcfd.org

 

1. All Moyers Corners units cleared by 22:38 hours

 

 

 

October 23rd, 2007

 

Brookwood Apartmetns Signal 99

 

www.mcfd.org

 

Just after 12:40PM on 10/23/2007 Moyers Corners, Liverpool, and Mattydale were actived for a reported apartment fire in the Brookwood Apartments.  After the initial dispatch Fire Control indicated that there were several calls for the reported fire.  Police and Liverpool C-1 arrived minutes later confirming a 2 story wood frame with heavy smoke and fire showing.  Liverpool C-1 called for a signal 99

October 24th, 2007

 

Fire, Smoke Damage 3 Apartments in Clay

 

The Post-Standard

 

By Robert A. Baker
A fire Tuesday heavily damaged an apartment in the Brookwood Village complex in Clay, but no one was injured, fire officials said.  Building 12, a 10-unit building at Plantation Boulevard and Galloway Drive, was occupied at the time of the 12:30 p.m. fire, but no one was home in Apartment 10, where the fire appears to have started, said Battalion Chief Stephen Race, of the Moyers Corners Fire Department.  The fire was under control within four minutes of firefighters arriving, Race said. Apartment 10, a corner apartment, sustained the most damage. Two adjacent apartments also had smoke and water damage, Race said.  Ann Graf, an employee at a Morgan Road dentist's office that backs up to the complex, said she was leaving for lunch when she saw smoke pouring from the apartment. She reported the fire, then ran back out and saw the smoke change to flames.  "I saw smoke and then it exploded," Graf said.  It looked like "a small bomb" went off when a second-floor window blew out and showered the ground with debris, Graf said. She pounded on doors to alert residents.

 

 

 

December 6th, 2007

 

Fire strikes apartment complex in Clay

 

Robert A. Baker

 

The Post Standard
Everyone in an apartment building Clay safely escaped an early morning fire Thursday that started in one unit's kitchen, a Moyers Corners Fire Department official said.Firefighters were called to the Brookwood Apartments at 4400 Plantation Blvd. shortly after 3 a.m., Moyers Corners Battalion Chief Tim Chura said. Despite finding a frozen hydrant, firefighters were able to put out the fire in the three-story, 18-unit apartment building about 10 minutes, Chura said. The fire started on the stove of apartment 14 and spread to the cabinets and the rest of the kitchen, Chura said. Except for the third-floor apartment where the fire started, everyone was allowed to return to their apartments after the fire, Chura said.

 

Cnycentral.com
Overnight fire seriously damages apartment
Stephen Peterson
According to a 911 dispatcher 6 fire departments responded to an apartment fire at the Wellington Manor apartments, located at 4400 Plantation Blvd in Clay. The fire started around 3am Thursday morning. The Belgium, North Syracuse, Liverpool, Moyers Corners, Clay and Mattydale departments all responded. The fire started in the kitchen causing severe damage to one apartment, and forced other apartments to evacuate. A family of two from the damaged apartment is being assisted by the Red Cross. People evacuated from the other undamaged apartments will be allowed back into the building by tonight.

 

 

 

December 7th, 2007

 

MCFD firefighters help one of their own

 

www.mcfd.org

 

On Saturday December 8th, Moyers Corners station 3 firefighters got together to help one of their own.  Firefighter Mike Goodwin is currently serving our country overseas in Iraq.  Firefighters Mike Braciszewski, Andy Brown, Joe Brown, Dan Stachurski, Nick Wadler, explorer Chris Goonan, Lt. Mike Wick, and Battalion Chief Tim Chura paid a visit to Firefighter Goodwin’s wife and three children.  The members helped the Goodwin’s decorate their house for the holidays, and BC Chura presented Tammy Goodwin with a check for $250 to help make their holidays a little brighter.  The kids enjoyed decorating the tree, and all involved had a great time

 

 

 

December 7th, 2007

 

Pediatric Burn Survivors Attend Holiday Sleepover
The Post-Standard
University Hospital's Clark Burn Center and the Moyer's Corners Fire Department have teamed up to throw a holiday party tonight for 16 pediatric burn survivors. The children will sleep overnight at the fire station, visit Lights on the Lake, decorate the fire house and have a pizza party. The party begins 6 p.m. and runs through Saturday afternoon.

 

 

 

December 30th, 2007

 

Clay residence damaged by fire

 

Robert A. Baker

 

The Post Standard

 

A home in the town of Clay was damaged by fire this evening, according to the Onondaga County 911 center. The fire at 4155 Torrey Lane was reported about 5 p.m. and was put out by the Moyers Corners Fire Department. The fire made the house uninhabitable and the three people living in the home were assisted in finding a place to spend the night, the American Red Cross reported. The fire reportedly started in the home's garage and spread to the rest of the house.

 

2008
Chief Ed Wisnowski
 First Deputy Chief: Steve Race
Second Deputy Chief EJ Stevens
Battalion 1 Chief Frank Crispin
Battalion 2 Chief Chet Fritz
Battalion 3 Chief Steve Wisely/Eric Fritz
Station 1 Captain Kevin Wisely
Station 2 Captains Mike G. Brown, Bob Driscoll
Station 3 Captains Mike Wick, Steve Dembowski
Station 4 Captain Jered Zeppetello
Station 1 Lieutenants: Greg Shaffer, Pete Klem
Station 2 Lieutenants: Mike Normanly, Dan Izzo, Jeff Belczak 
Station 3 Lieutenants: Mike J. Brown, Jeff Wisely, Jeff Izzo
Station 4 Lieutenants: Steve Zaferakis, Tom Beardsley

 

Executive Board
 President John Perkins
Vice President Ken Filow 
Secretary Dick Kyle, Assistant Secretary Joe Brown 
Treasurer Fred Sears, Assistant Treasuer Adam Croman

 

Fire Police:  Captain Steve Rubacky, Lt. Dick Kyle

 

Bunk Ins: Brad Badali, Andy Brown, Alex Nagoda, Dustin Prievo, Brandon Rundle, Joe Signorelli, Matt Zabek

 

Auxiliary: President Norma Guinta, Vice President Brenda Kennedy, Recording Secretary Kim Brown, Treasurer Marilyn Sees, Chaplain Kathleen Heighton

 

 

 

New Apparatus: 2008 100’ Pierce

 

 

 

January 25th, 2008

 

Signal 98-All hands working on Hemlock

 

www.mcfd.org

 

On Thursday January 24th at approximately 11:30pm, Moyers Corners was dispatched to a reported house fire on Hemlock Circle in the Battalion 1 response area. BC1 (Crispin) arrived first with smoke showing and immediately called for 2 ALS Ambulances to the scene as he encountered two burn victims. BC2 (Fritz) arrived second and assumed the interior sector. Engine 41 (Beardsley) was the first due engine and nosed in to the hydrant located in front of the structure. An inch and three-quarter attack line was deployed and an aggressive interior attack was made on the number two floor. Rescue 4 (Zeppetello) provided ventilation and Ladder 1 (Wisely) completed truck and rescue company operations. Rescue 3 (Dembowski) staged at the scene. Engine 21 and 31 were also staged. The fire was quickly knocked down and held to the room of origin, however the house sustained a significant amount of smoke damage. The two victims were transported by NOVA ambulance for treatment at an area hospital
The Post Standard
Two injured in Clay house fire
By Joy Crocker
Clay, N.Y. - A Clay resident and her teenage daughter were injured in a fire at their 4029 Hemlock Circle home Thursday night, the Moyers Corners fire chief said. The family saw smoke coming from a front living room shortly after 11:30 p.m., Chief Ed Wisnowski said. The woman tried to put the fire out, but then she, her husband and daughter fled the house. Ambulances took the woman, who had minor burns, and her daughter, who suffered smoke inhalation, to local hospitals, Wisnowski said. Firefighters contained the blaze to the front room, although the house had smoke damage throughout, Wisnowski said. The investigation into the cause is continuing.

 

 

 

January 25th, 2008

 

Two injured in Clay house fire

 

Joy Crocker

 

The Post Standard

 

Clay, N.Y. - A Clay resident and her teenage daughter were injured in a fire at their 4029 Hemlock Circle home Thursday night, the Moyers Corners fire chief said. The family saw smoke coming from a front living room shortly after 11:30 p.m., Chief Ed Wisnowski said. The woman tried to put the fire out, but then she, her husband and daughter fled the house. Ambulances took the woman, who had minor burns, and her daughter, who suffered smoke inhalation, to local hospitals, Wisnowski said. Firefighters contained the blaze to the front room, although the house had smoke damage throughout, Wisnowski said. The investigation into the cause is continuing.

 

February 1st, 2008
Daytime crews extricate 1 patient
www.mcfd.org
On the first day of February 2008, during the middle of a minor ice storm event, MCFD daytime crews were alerted to a vehicle that struck a telephone pole at Henry Clay Boulevard and Stonedale Road in the Battalion 3 response area. Battalion 2 (C.Fritz) arrived first and indicated that 1 patient was trapped in his vehicle and would require heavy extrication. Battalion 3 (E. Fritz) arrived second and assumed Command of the incident. Car 3 (Stevens) arrived an took the Safety Officer position. Rescue 4 (Zaferakis) arrived shortly before Rescue 3 (Perkins), and headed up Rescue Operations. Engine 12 (Schweitzer) and Engine 22 (Anderson) provided scene safety and assisted in the rescue. 

   Crews found the driver to be pinned in the vehicle and began the 'heavy' extrication.  Challenges were encountered through multiple layers of reinforced steel in the 2006 sedan's B post, side curtain airbags that had not deployed upon impact, electrical hazards along telephone pole, heavy amounts of snow and ice surrounding the scene, and a leaking full tank of gas. To free the victim, crews cut the roof and rolled it backwards. A well coordinated effort between all crews help to overcome all challenges, and freed the victim within 30 minutes of arrival to the scene. Great job to all that were involved. The victim was transported by NOVA ambulance to an area hospital with minor injuries

 

February 3rd, 2008
Kitchen fire in Liverpool
www.mcfd.org
This morning (1142 am), Engine 32 (M. Wick) and Battalion 3 (E. Fritz) responded mutual aid to a Liverpool kitchen fire with reports of an occupant possibly still inside.  Initial reports from dispatch were a fire in the kitchen with a male occupant attempting to put the fire out. Engine 32 and Battalion 3 arrived shortly after Liverpool Car 1 to find a one story wood frame with light smoke showing.  Reports from the occupant were everyone was out of the structure. The Engine 32 crew streched a 1 3/4" handline, while the Liverpool crews prepared for the tasks of search and ventilation. The Engine 32 crew found a stove fire with extension to the cabinets and ceiling above.  The fire was quickly extinguished and confined to room of origin.  The seach of the structure turned up negative.  Ventilation and overhaul were completed with no extension found. Engine 32 and Battalion 3 returned to service approximately 45mins after arrival

 

February 11th, 2008
Henry Clay and Crossroads head-on MVC
www.mcfd.org
With temperatures down in the single digits, volunteers from Moyers Corners Fire Department were called to a motor vehicle accident at the intersection of Henry Clay Boulevard and Crossroads Park Drive Monday morning February 11th, 2008 with possibly one unconscious.  Units arrived to find two sedans had collided near head-on, with one of the vehicles on its roof.  All three occupants of the vehicles were conscious and already out of their vehicles, and were packaged for transport by NAVAC and NOVA.  None of the injuries appear to be life threatening. Units operating at the scene were Engine 22, Rescue 3, BC-2, and DC-2.  All units cleared within about 30 minutes. The cause of the accident is under investigation

 

March 18th, 2008
People evacuated after partial building collapse
Kristy Smorol
Cnycentral.com
LIVERPOOL -- Residents of the Ridgewood Apartment building were evacuated from their homes Tuesday night. Some bricks on the outside of the Liverpool building fell off. The Moyers Corners Fire Chief tells us the walls looked like they were bulging out. He says people can't go back inside until the codes enforcement department gives the all clear. No injuries were caused by the collapse. The Red Cross is providing assistance, and will be back tomorrow to continue helping

 

March 28th, 2008
Vehicle collision at Wetzel Road cemetery
www.mcfd.org
On Monday March 24th, Moyers Corners was alerted to a vehicle collision on Wetzel Road near Morgan Road. Battalion 1 (Crispin), Battalion 2 (C. Fritz), Battalion 3 (E. Fritz) and Car 2 (Race) all answered up to the alarm. Arriving first, Battalion 2 indicated that the accident was adjacent to the Historic Cemetery and 1 patient would need to be extricated. Engine 22 (Belczak) arrived and assumed the safety officer position while also stretching a handline. Rescue 4 (S. Zaferakis) assumed the Rescue Officer position and the team began the extrication. Rescue 3 (Dembowski) assessed the second vehicle and packaged the self-extricated driver for transport via ambulance. 
Crews extricated the trapped patient in less than 10 minutes. He was transported to an area hospital with minor injuries

 

April 3rd 2008

 

Volunteer firefighter indicted on shooting

 

Herald Journal
Stanley Memmelaar was indicted Wednesday on felony assault and reckless endangerment charges in the shooting of a fellow volunteer firefighter Oct. 21 at the Moyers Corners fire station. Authorities said Memmelaar,

 

27, of Clay, was drunk when he accidentally shot Tyler Drake. State Supreme Court Justice John Brunetti recently declined to approve a plea deal with a probationary sentence without first having the case reviewed by a grand jury.

 

 

 

April 28th, 2008

 

R4 and E12 assist Belgium Cold Springs

 

www.mcfd.org

 

On Saturday April 26th, 2008, MCFD Battalion 1 crossed the Seneca River to assist the Belgium Cold Springs Fire Department with a reported structure fire on Haylage Road. Belgium Cold Springs Car 1 arrived and struck the Signal 99. Battalion Chief 1 (Crispin) and Rescue 4 (Lt.. Zaferakis) responded as the RIT Team on the initial assignment. Engine 12 (FF Delong) was also called directly into the scene. 

    Arriving third due, Rescue 4 and the Battalion Chief split their nine-person crew into two RIT teams. Team 1 was re-assigned to assist engine companies with truck work on the number 2 floor. Team 2 remained as a six person RIT Team. Engine 12 and Rescue 4 performed heavy overhaul and assisted Belgium Cold Springs, Liverpool, and Baldwinsville with engine work

 

 

 

May 6th, 2008

 

Dedication Nets Reward

 

By Jim O’Hara
The Post Standard
Christopher Goonan says he's "always kinda wanted" to be a firefighter since he was "a little kid." Instead of growing out of those little-boy dreams, the 17-year-old Goonan has been working toward making them a reality over the past two years. He's become a fixture at the Moyers Corners Fire Department as a member of Fire Service Explorer Post 209. He's also planning to become a full-fledged member of the department after graduation from Liverpool High School in June. Because of his dedication to the post, the fire department and the community, Goonan is being honored today by the District Attorney's Advisory Council (DAAC) as the recipient of the 2008 Youth EnCOURAGEment Award. The DAAC is a nonpartisan group founded in 1967 to increase the public's understanding of the criminal justice system and to act as a liaison between the District Attorney's Office and the community. "He's probably the most committed person we have," Moyers Corners Fire Lt. Steve Zaferakis said, noting Goonan immediately came to mind when he heard of the DAAC's youth award. "There's nothing better to do and it's really fun," Goonan said of the Explorer Post. In reality, however, he's got a lot keeping him busy. He's in the Boy Scouts working toward becoming an Eagle Scout. He's a certified lifeguard. He runs track for Liverpool. He loves snowboarding. And he's getting "decent grades" in everything but math, he confessed.

 

He's planning to attend Onondaga Community College in the fall and his ultimate goal is to become an Onondaga County Sheriff's deputy. Zaferakis said Goonan quickly advanced from the basic training in the fundamentals of firefighting offered through the Explorer Program and was promoted to Explorer Level I. As such, Goonan can be an observer and ride on fire vehicles to fire and rescue scenes, although he still cannot participate in any firefighting or rescues, Zaferakis said. But he can take photographs, help firefighters change their air packs and clean up, the lieutenant said. With a member of the fire department stationed in Iraq, Goonan made sure the firefighter's wife and children had gifts and help getting their home decorated this past Christmas, the lieutenant said. Goonan also was active in organizing a recent Earth Day cleanup in Bayberry, Zaferakis said. "His tremendous appetite for learning, his desire to help others in his community, and his goal of becoming a firefighter with Moyers Corners makes him an excellent candidate for this award," Zaferakis wrote.

 

 

 

May 31st, 2008

 

Stubborn, but minor, fire strikes Clay Manufacturer

 

Robert A. Baker

 

The Post Standard
Clay, NY -- A minor, but stubborn, fire in a silo above a manufacturing company in Clay kept Moyers Corners firefighters busy this evening.  The fire was reported about 6:15 p.m. in large pipes leading to a silo on the roof of Packaging Corp. of America, 4471 Steelway Blvd. S., Moyers Corners Fire Chief Chet Fritz said.  "It's not big, but it's labor intensive," Fritz said.  Firefighters had to follow the fire through the piping to put it out, Fritz said. Fire crews were wrapping up operations about 90 minutes after they were called to the scene. The company makes cardboard products, such as boxes, Fritz said.  Liverpool and Mattydale fire departments assisted the Moyers Corners Fire Department at the scene, Fritz said.

 

 

 

May 31st, 2008

 

Moyers Corners firefighter admits shooting

 

Post Standard

 

Jim O’Hara

 

A volunteer firefighter who got drunk and accidently shot a fellow firefighter admitted his guild Friday. Stanley Memmelaar, 27, of clay, pleaded guilty before state Supreme Court Justice John Brunettie to first-degree reckless endangerment in the Oct. 21st shooting of Tyler Drake, 21, at the Moyers Corners fire station. Brunettie promised Memmelaar a sentence of five years probation with a requirement that he pay Drake’s out-of-pocket medical expenses. Sentencing is set for July 25. Defense lawyer Paul Carey said Memmelaar had been cleaning his licensed handgun at home that day when a friend stopped and they began drinking. The decided to go the fire station. Memmelaar brought the gun, the lawyer said. At the station, Memmelaar showed the gun to Drake and asked if he thought the weapon was loaded, Carey said. At that point, the friend who had accompanied Memmelaar reached over his should and tried to knock the gun out of his hand and the weapon fire, the lawyer said. Carey said that scenario apparently was what prompted Brunette to approve the plea deal. The judge had initially declined to accept a deal calling for no jail time until the matter was reviewed by a grand jury. Onondaga County assistand District Attorney Scott Wells agreed to the deal but said he “strongly disagreed” with Carey’s description of how the shooting occurred. Carey said Memmelaar has been suspended from the fire department but is hoping to return.

 

 

 

June 3rd, 2008

 

Rescue 4 and Engine 22 extricate one

 

www.mcfd.org

 

Moyers Corners Stations 2 and 4 were alerted to Signal 80 with possible entrapment Monday evening. Upon arrival, Battalion 1 Chief Crispin indicated that one patient would need extrication. Rescue 4 (S. Zaferakis) arrived and confirmed the minor extrication of one patient. Engine 22 (D. Izzo) assisted with scene safety and patient care. Battalion 3 Chief Eric Fritz ran the command while Deputy Chief Stevens operated as the safety officer. Units were in service within 15 minutes

 

 

 

June 6th, 2008

 

Lightening storm makes for a busy night

 

www.mcfd.org

 

A major lightning storm in the early hours of Friday June 6th kept the volunteers from Moyers Corners extremely busy. MCFD answered a total of seven alarms during the storm, starting at approximately 0115 hours with  Engine 22 running mutual aid to a reported structure fire in the Lakeside Fire District . Lakeside Car 1 arrived first with fire blowing out of the roof of the structure on State Fair Boulevard.  A Signal 99 was struck. MCFD Engine 22 (D. Izzo) responded and assisted crews with fire suppression and overhaul. Mutual aid was also received from Baldwinsville, Solvay, Liverpool, and Fairmount FD. Engine 22 remained on the scene for an hour and a half. 

At approximately 0330 hours, MCFD was alerted to a possible structure fire on Evergreen Circle.  A minute later, Stations 1 and 4 were dispatched to a Signal 80 - Vehicle into a telephone pole at Reddeer Road and Route 57. Engine 21 (D. Izzo) and Battalion 2 Chief Fritz arrived first on Evergreen Circle with fire showing in the second floor master bedroom of the townhouse. Engine 31 (Dembowski) arrived second. A Signal 99 was struck by Command.  Engine 21 and Engine 31 made an aggressive attack, limiting the fire to the room of origin. Also on the scene were Battalion 1 Chief Crispin (Interior), Deputy Chief Stevens, Chief Wisnowski, Battalion 3 Chief Fritz, Engine 11 (Shaffer) , Ladder 1 (K. Wisely), Engine 41 (Beardsley), Engine 22 (Turiello), Truck 2 (Belczak), Rescue 3, and Baldwinsville FD Rescue 6 (T. Digregorio). The fire was extinguished within 30 minutes. Crews remained on the scene for the next two hours for overhaul, salvage, and clean-up. 

Rescue 4 (S. Zaferakis) responded to the vehicle into the telephone pole as the Evergreen Circle fire was in it's early stages. The Rescue 4 crew packaged one patient for transport via GBAC Ambulance and then responded to the fire scene, staging at Blockbuster. Moments later, Rescue 4 responded to a fire alarm activation at National Grid on Henry Clay Boulevard. Assisting MCFD Rescue 4 on the fire alarm were stand-by coverage crews Clay Engine 31, North Syracuse Engine 6, and an Engine from Belgium Cold Springs.  After closing that alarm, Belgium's Engine and Moyers Corners Rescue 4 responded to a water line break inside a mobile home. While crews were responding to the mobile home, a fire alarm came in at Willowfield Elementary School. Clay Engine 31 , Moyers Corners BC1, Engine 22, and Rescue 4 responded. The busy evening concluded with a heavy smoke condition and possible fire one street over from the earlier fire on Evergreen Circle. Responding to the alarm on Spruce Tree Circle were Car 1, BC1, BC3, Car 3, Ladder 1, Engine 11, Engine 41, Engine 31, and Rescue 4. Crews were in service by 0630

 

 

 

June 10th, 2008
Cats and kittens rescued from poor conditions
Your News Now
CLAY, N.Y. -- "The smell is not exactly good. And they called us up here to see if we could help them out and a got a crew of guys in," said Chet Fritz, Battalion Chief of the Moyers Corners Fire Department. The pungent smell of ammonia was strong enough to warrant masks and handling the tiny creatures, well, one never knows what kinds of bacteria lurk behind the walls of the tiny, run-down trailer in the center of Casual Estates."There's nobody in there now,” Fritz said. “The individual who lives there is in the hospital."But not before she contacted Wayward Paws of Jamesville, a not-for profit animal rescue center. Lisa Sczerba of Wayward Paws says the elderly woman who lives there really wanted the best for her cats and kittens.

 

June 22nd, 2008

 

Fatal rollover on Route 481 near Route 31

 

www.mcfd.org

 

On Sunday June 22nd at approximately 2:30 pm, the volunteers of Moyers Corners were alerted to a Signal 80 Multiple Vehicle Rollover on Route 481 just north of Route 31. Car 3 (E. Stevens) arrived and notified units that one patient was trapped under the vehicle, located in the median. Battalion 2 Chief Fritz established the incident command. A tow truck passing by the scene stopped and was able to lift the vehicle off of the patient, adding crucial access and vehicle stability. Rescue 4 (Lt. Zaferakis) arrived and began the rapid extrication of the trapped victim under the vehicle. Engine 11 (Lt. Schweitzer) provided scene safety. Engine 22 (Lt. Belczak) provided scene safety and assisted the Rescue 4 crew with shoring. The trapped victim was removed from the wreckage within twenty minutes and transported to an area hospital via Mentor Ambulance. Rescue 4 also extricated the driver of that vehicle moments after freeing the passenger, however he did not survive. Rescue 3 (Capt. Wick) also helped with vehicle stability. A second vehicle also rolled over during the collision. That driver was later packaged by Rescue 4 and transported to an area hospital via NOVA Ambulance. Other Units on the scene included: MCFD Car 2 (S. Race) MCFD Battalion 3 (E. Fritz) EM306 (K. Wisely) - Safety Officer NOVA Ambulance NAVAC Ambulance OSCD Air-1

 

 

 

Oswego County Today.com
Onondaga County Sheriff Kevin E. Walsh reports that deputies are investigating a two car crash that claimed one life. At approximately 2:40 pm, Town of Clay Police and Onondaga County Sheriff’s  Deputies responded to Route 481, just north of Route 31, on a reported rollover crash. A 2007 Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck, operated by Jack Baker (54), of Sterling, New York, was struck by a 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier, operated by James Sada (85), of 2114 Grant Boulevard. Deputies investigating the crash report that Baker was traveling north on Route 481 and was driving in the right lane when he was struck by Sada’s car. Witnesses told Deputies that Sada was also traveling north on Route 481, driving in the passing lane when he apparently lost control of his vehicle and drove onto the shoulder of the roadway. Appearing to have overcompensated for driving off the roadway, Sada crossed back into his lane and proceeded to cross into the right lane when his vehicle made contact with the rear tire of Baker’s pickup truck. The contact with Bakers tire put both vehicles into a spin, sending them in opposite directions. Baker’s vehicle rolled several times into the median and came to rest in an overturned position. Sadas vehicle traveled down and embankment off the shoulder of the road and came to rest on the passenger’s side of the car. Although shaken up, Sada escaped without injury. Rescue crews from the Moyers Corners Fire Department raced to free Baker and his wife Deborah Somers-Baker (52), who were both trapped beneath the wreckage. Jack was pronounced dead at the scene, while Menter Ambulance Service rushed Deborah to University Hospital. Members of the Sheriff’s Accident Investigation Team were called to the scene to conduct a complete investigation. Several witnesses were interviewed and Investigators will rely on accident reconstruction to determine the cause of the crash. No tickets have been issued at this time.

 

All Traffic on Route 481 was shut down between Phoenix and Route 31 while Sheriff’s Accident Investigation Technicians processed the scene. Members of the New York State Department of Transportation assisted with traffic diversion.

 

 

 

June 29th, 2008

 

Reported fire at Buckley Park apartments

 

www.mcfd.org

 

On Thursday June 26, at approximately  07:30 hours, the Moyers Corners Fire Department was dispatched to a possible fire at the Buckley Park Apartments. A Caller reported seeing fire through the roof. BC-2 (Command) arrived on-scene and confirmed fire through the roof of Building H. Engine 21 (LT. D.Izzo)  was first due and deployed a 300’ hand line to the third floor. Upon reaching the third floor, Engine 21 did not find any smoke or fire. By this time BC-1 arrived and assumed operations on the third floor. The Engine 21 crew started to pull ceilings and found heavy fire. The fire started making its way to the other apartments but Engine 21's crew made a great stop limiting fire damage to only 1 apartment. Truck 2 arrived (Capt. Driscoll) and went to the roof to start ventilation along with C-2 who had the roof sector. Engine 41 (LT. Zeppetello) arrived and assisted with pulling the ceilings. Engine 31 (LT. Jennings) brought in a second hydrant and assisted with overhaul and salvage. Engine 31's crew also responded to a fire alarm on Wetzel Road in the latter stages of the fire along with Liverpool FD Car 1. The fire is believed to have started from a faulty fan, but it being investigated by the Onondaga County Fire Investigators. Liverpool Engine 1 staged at the scene and responded to a smoke odor on Hopkins Road during the course of the fire. Mattydale Fire Department provided the RIT assignment
News10Now.com
Fire damages Liverpool apartment
LIVERPOOL, N.Y. -- No one is injured following an apartment fire at the Buckley Park Apartments in Liverpool. Crews were called to a third floor apartment in Building H around 7:30 Friday morning. Fire officials say people inside the building were evacuated and damage was limited to just one apartment. An investigation is underway but it appears a fan may have caused the fire. "It appears, it has not been investigated yet, but it appears that there was a fan that may have malfunctioned and caught fire in the living room area and then extended up through the roof," said Battalion Chief Chet Fritz with the Moyers Corners Fire Department.

 

July 11th, 2008

 

Crews respond to North Syracuse fire

 

www.mcfd.org

 

On Wednesday July 9th, at approximately 2330 hours, Fire Control alerted the North Syracuse Fire Department to a reported apartment fire at 419 S Main Street in the Village of North Syracuse. A signal 99 was struck with the special request of an engine from MCFD Station 3, adding Engine 32 to the assignment.

    During an aggressive search for a trapped occupant, a mayday was called as the search team’s egress was cut off by fire extension. With the Wednesday night duty crew in house at Station 2, Truck 2 went on the air and picked an assignment along with Rescue 3. Engine 32 was assigned to the roof division; Truck 2 positioned side Charlie, handled the utilities, and assisted in extinguishing the fire in the cockloft. BC-3 had safety. MCFD Units cleared within an hour and a half. North Syracuse crews were able to rescue the trapped victim. He was transported in critical condition to an area hospital. The patient was released from the hospital within 24 hours

 

 

 

July 13th, 2008

 

Extrication on Henry Clay Boulevard

 

www.mcfd.org
Saturday July 12, 2008 00:19 hrs, Station 2 and 3 were dispatched to a possible signal 80 car vs. tree off the road with entrapment. Car 1 (E. Wisnowski) and NOVA ambulance were first on the scene to find a car off the road into trees and against a utility pole. Rescue 3 (FF. Stachurski) arrived to find the vehicle very unstable to work with and began shoring the vehicle. Engine 22(Lt. D. Izzo) and Squad 3(Lt. Wisely) arrived and assisted the rescue with vehicle stabilization. Upon further investigation of the scene Lt. Izzo smelled natural gas and noticed that a high pressure main near the car was also damaged in the accident. At this point he had his crew pull a hand line to protect the crews working on the vehicle.It took Rescue 3s and Engine 22s crew about 15 minutes to extricate the driver after the car was deemed stable enough to work on, and turned him over to NOVA ambulance for evaluation.Engine 22 and Rescue 3 remained on the scene as a precaution until the car was removed and turned the gas leak over to National Grid. All units were back in service at 01:35

 

 

 

July 28, 2008
Firefighter sentenced for shooting at Moyers Corners fire station
Jim O’Hara Post Standard
A Moyers Corners firefighter who got drunk and accidentally shot a fellow firefighter at the fire station was sentenced today to five years' probation. Stanley Memmelaar, 27, of Clay, offered an apology to victim Tyler Drake and the Moyers Corners Fire Department as he stood before state Supreme Court Justice John Brunetti. The 21-year-old Drake wrote a letter to the court, that was read aloud in court by his father, in which he detailed how his life has been changed by the shooting and questioned the leniency of the penalty Memmelaar was facing. Brunetti then went ahead and imposed the probation sentence as agreed to when Memmelaar pleaded guilty to first-degree reckless endangerment.

 

 

 

July 28th, 2008
Call for Volunteer Firefighters
Kristen Drew
CNYcentral.com
More than a dozen volunteer firefighters from Moyers Corners responded to a call on Monday morning about a dumpster fire in the Town of Clay. There were enough people to get the job done, but firefighters say they can always use more help. Firefighter Phillip Vogt said, "We are one of the bigger departments in the county, but even still there are days where you're running ragged because it's the same six to eight guys that happened to have that day off; at that time period where we keep getting calls." Like many volunteer fire departments, recruiting efforts are an ongoing process for the Moyers Corners fire department. In front of station 4, a sign to attract new members says: "No pay, free coffee". "I think for the most part it gets in your blood and you really like it and another thing-- philosophically, I personally think, you should be doing something for your community," said Fire Chief Chet Fritz. Many volunteer firefighters balance the fire service between work, school, and family obligations. Vogt said, "There's a bit of a time commitment. It's really not much. It's 10% of the calls here at Moyers Corners, which really isn't that hard to reach, for your goal, and then a couple drills per week and couple meetings a year." 
There are not requirements for the number of volunteers fire departments must maintain to function, but it is something that's kept in mind for recruiting efforts. David Steinberg, President of the Onondaga County Fire Chief's Association said, "Most organizations will have a moral obligation... one person can't do it all and (they) know their districts and call volume and have a rough idea of how many people they need and that's hopefully the goal as far as recruiting." To become a volunteer firefighter, you must fill out an application and get a physical. The fire department will do a background check and you will also go through a training process that is paid for by the state.

 

 

 

August 6th, 2008

 

Companies respond to BCSFD Signal 99

 

www.mcfd.org 
On Saturday, August 2nd, 2008 Companies from MCFD Stations 1 & 4 responded to a structure fire on Patchett Rd in Belgium-Cold Springs.  The initial assignment requested Rescue 4 as the Rapid Intervention Team [RIT].   Reports from police on the scene were an active fire in the garage. BCSFD Car 1 [C. Evans] arrived on scene, assumed command, Signaled the 99 and reported heavy fire in an attched garage.  Rescue 4 [T. Beardsley]  responded with a total of seven [7] to fill the assignment of RIT.  With the Signal 99, MCFD Ladder 1 [K. Delong] was assigned to cover BCSFD Station 2.  Shortly after arriving at BCSFD Station 2, Ladder 1 was reassigned to respond into the scene to assist with overhaul efforts.  MCFD Battalion 3 [E. Fritz] was also on scene and was assigned to the role of Safety.  Once the fire was knocked down, the crew from Rescue 4 was reassigned to assist with the overhaul efforts.  Crews opperated on the scene for approximately four [4] hours

 

 

 

August 11th, 2008

 

Busy afternoon for MCFD
www.mcfd.org

 

The volunteers of Moyers Corners were kept busy Saturday August 9th with multiple alarms. The afternoon started wtih a reported fire on Carmel Drive in the Battalion 1 response Area. Car 3 [Stevens] arrived with nothing evident.
Battalion 3 [E. Fritz] and Car 5 [Capt. Brown] also added to the command assignments. Car 3 indicated to incoming units that a grease fire had caused a smoke condition in the residence, no active fire. Engine 41 [Lt. Beardsley] confirmed those reports while Rescue 4 [Lt. Zaferakis] provided ventilation to the structure. Engine 11 [Delong] stood by at a hydrant. 

Upon clearing that alarm, Onondaga County Fire Control informed units that they had two calls to dispatch. Stations 2 and 3 were alerted to simultaneous fire alarms at Lipe-Rollway Bearing and Raymour-Flanigan on Morgan Road.  The Battalion 1 units cleared from Carmel Drive were added to the fire alarms by Car 3. After  investigating a water surge on the Raymour and Flanigan site, MCFD Rescue 4 was then requested by Liverpool  FD Car 3 to respond to a vehicle vs. motorcycle accident on Cold Springs Road at Harding Road. Initial Reports indicated that two people were seriously injured on the motorcycle. MCFD Rescue 4 [Lt. Zaferakis] assisted Liverpool Engines 3 and 5 with patient care. The patients were transported by Rural Metro to area hospitals

 

 

 

August 20th, 2008

 

Sta. 1 crews mutual aid to Phoenix fire

 

www.mcfd.org

 

On Tuesday August 20th, at approximately 1630 hours, Moyers Corners Station 1 was alerted to a reported fire on Frenchmans Creek Road in the Phoenix Fire District. The first arriving Phoenix FD Chief reported heavy fire in the garage. MCFD Engine 11 [Lt. Schweitzer] was the fourth due engine company on the scene. They were tasked with providing fire suppression during outside operations, as well as overhaul and salvage within the structure.  Ladder 1 [FF Gaido] was the only truck company on the scene. They were tasked with master stream operations on side "A", as well as overhaul within the garage. Other departments on the scene were Phoenix FD, Belgium Cold Springs FD, and Baldwinsville FD

 

 

 

August 29th, 2008

 

Engine 32 to Liverpool structure fire

 

www.mcfd.org

 

On August 28, 2008 Moyers Corners Fire Department, Inc. responded Mutual Aid to Liverpool for a reported Basement Fire.  LFD Car 1 [T. MacCollum] assumed command and MCFD Battalion 3 [E. Fritz] assumed the Basement Division after arriving at the same time.  Engine 32 [P. Herrick] arrived first to bring in a hydrant and pull the initial 1 3/4" handline. Liverpool Car 2 [G. Vincitore] assumed the role of Safety.

The crew from Engine 32 and Battalion 3 made the stairs to the basement to find high smoke conditions and moderate heat conditions.  Crews from Liverpool FD assisted the Engine 32 crew with the initial handline placement and protection of the basement stairwell with an additional 1 3/4" handline.  Additional crews from Liverpool worked quickly to do a primary search of Divisions 1 & 2, throw ground ladders and ventilate the structure.  The fire was found in the decay phase.  Additional crews operating on scene were Mattydale Quint 3 [Ventilation, Overhaul] and North Syracuse Engine 4 [RIT].  MCFD Engine 22 was called into staff  Liverpool Station 1 during the alarm.  Other agencies on scene included the OCSO, Onondaga County Emergency Management Deputy Fire Coordinators and Fire Investigators, and Rural Metro.  There was one firefighter treated and transported from the scene to a local hospital for smoke inhalation

 

 

 

September 15th, 2008

 

Engine 32 takes in Liverpool structure fire

 

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On Monday, September 15, 2008, Liverpool Fire was dispatched on a possible electrical problem on Thornwood Lane.  During dispatch the alarm was upgraded to a structure fire due to the caller reporting flames and smoke in the residence.  Liverpool Car 1 [T. MacCullum] assumed command on the two story wood frame with smoke showing. 
The alarm was quickly upgraded to a Signal 99.  Crews from Liverpool and MCFD Engine 32 [P Walsh] worked quickly to knock down the fire and begin overhaul.  The fire involved from the first floor exterior, second floor interior and attic space.  The Engine 32 crew worked on scene for approximately an hour.  Additional agencies on scene included: Onondaga County Emergency Management Representatives, Onondaga County Fire Investigators, Town of Salina Codes Representative, Onondaga County Sheriffs Deputies and Rural Metro Ambulance

 

 

 

September 22nd, 2008

 

MCFD provides mutual aid to Clay fire

 

www.mcfd.org
pictures

 

On Sunday September 21st, at 4:20pm, a second alarm struck by the Clay Fire Department at a 180-year-old house located  at 8481 Morgan Road brought crews from Moyers Corners to the scene. Battalion 2 [C. Fritz], Car 2 [Race], Truck 2 [Lt. Normanly], Engine 22 [FF Zevotek], and Rescue 3 [Lt. Izzo] responded. Battalion 2 Chief Fritz recalled the days events:
"Because of limited manpower at the inception of the alarm, Truck 2's crew was directed to man a hand line that had been laid through the front door of the structure. They found heavy fire on the "D" side of the structure, second floor. With an aggressive interior attack led by Lt. Normanly, his crew were able to contain and knock down the fire, along with a unit from Clay FD. Unfortunately, by this time the fire had spread to the cock loft and heavy fire was in that area of the building. An attempt to vent the roof was cut short when all personnel were ordered from the roof. As an option, ground ladders were placed on sides "A","C", and "D" of the structure. Soffit's were pulled on these sides, water was applied and the cock loft fire was knocked down. Later on, crews were allowed back on the roof and vented it, but by this time the fire was under control.  E22 laid a supply line to a secondary hydrant and FF Zevotek took his crew to the number two floor and also manned a hand line. At the peak of the fire, either four or five hand lines were being utilized.  There was significant fire, heat and smoke to the second story of the residence, as well as in the cock loft area. Additionally, the first floor sustained water damage, which was mitigated somewhat by the use of tarps.  This house,circa 1828, was saved by an aggressive attack by several fire departments and can be rebuilt."

 

The Post Standard
Firefighters extinguish Clay fire, save home
By Aaron Gifford
Firefighters responded quickly to a house fire at 8481 Morgan Road Sunday evening, arriving at the scene within a few minutes and containing the damage to portions of the second floor and attic. The 180-year-old home was reported ablaze around 4:20 p.m. Clay Fire Chief Dan Ford estimates that the first firefighters arrived within 10 minutes and quickly contained the flames. A Clay firefighter was transported to St. Joseph's Hospital in Syracuse for heat exhaustion and later treated and released, Ford said. His identity was not disclosed. No other injuries were reported. The structure is a multiple family home but was only occupied at the time by owner Robert Mosher and his wife, Sonya Parker-Brooks. Mosher was in the backyard at the time when a neighbor alerted him to the smoke and called 911. "We didn't even know it was burning," he said. "Just as soon as she (neighbor) said it, we smelled the smoke, and the alarms went off." Mosher said he recently renovated the upstairs and had another tenant lined up to move in soon. Firefighters are still investigating the cause of the blaze. Ford would not say whether it appears accidental or suspicious.

 

October 18th, 2008

 

Car catches fire in Clay parking lot

 

Robert A. Baker

 

The Post Standard

 

Picture by Kathleen Gorby, US Navy Petty Officer Second Class

 

Fire destroyed a car in the parking lot of a Clay shopping plaza tonight, Onondaga County sheriff's deputies said. The 1990 Nissan was a total loss after the fire, which was reported at 7:38 p.m., Deputy Dan Walker said. The car was in the lot at 8395 Oswego Road, Walker said. The car was unoccupied and no one was injured, Walker said. The car is registered to Colleen Hamlin of the Baldwinsville area but was driven to the parking lot by the owner's daughter, Amber, Walker said. Moyers Corners Fire Department responded to the parking lot and put out the fire. Fire officials determined the cause to be an electrical problem in the engine compartment, Walker said. The fire was photographed by a Syracuse University photography student, U.S. Navy Petty Officer Second Class Kathleen Gorby, who was riding with the Onondaga County Sheriff's Office. Forty students have been documenting the town of Clay over the weekend as part of an annual workshop sponsored by the SU Department of Visual and Interactive Communications.

 

 

 

October 22nd, 2008

 

Daytime crews respond to house fire

 

www.mcfd.org
Shortly after 10:30 on Wednesday, October 22, 2008, the volunteers from Moyers Corners were dispatched for the reported "Child on the phone reporting a fire" with additional notes stating possibly a room on fire at

 

17 Treeline Drive in the Bataltion 2 response area.  E21 (Lt. Normanly) responded while performing pre-plans of the Battalion 2 first due area, established a water supply, and stretched the initial handline to the fire floor (2nd Floor, C Side Room).  Meanwhile, BC2 (C. Fritz) arrived, confirmed smoke showing and established the Moyers Corners, Treeline Command on Side A.  TK 2 (FF P. Vogt) arrived shortly thereafter, split the crews with the interior side taking initial searches of the fire floor and the exterior crew performing ventilation, throwing ground ladders, and assisting with exterior utilities.  E31 (Lt. Jennings) arrived, secured E21's supply line and assisted TK2 with initial searches of the fire floor while Lt. Jennings assumed Division 2 responsibilities.  Car 2 (Race) arrived, assumed the Safety responsibilities while Liverpool Car 1 (MacCollum) arrived receiving command and BC2 then assumed operations.  E41 (FF Watson) arrived on the secondary water supply and stretched the back-up line to the fire floor.  Mattydale R1 arrived providing the RIT function on Side A.  Within 15 minutes, the fire was declared knocked down by Division 2 and companies were scaled back.  Other MCFD units operating on the fireground included LD1, R3 (FF Jason Perkins), and E22 (FF Anderson).  The scene was then turned over to the OCSD and Onondaga County Fire Investigators for fire investigation

 

October 22nd, 2008

 

House fire reported in Clay

 

Robert A. Baker

 

The Post Standard
A house in Clay was damaged by a fire this morning but the boy who was home sick from school made it out safely, Moyers Corners Fire Chief Chet Fritz said. Smoke was coming from the upstairs windows of 17 Tree Line Drive and the 13-year-old boy was waiting outside as members of the Moyers Corners Fire Department pulled up, Fritz said. The boy called 911 to report the fire at 10:45 a.m. The fire started in a second-floor room apparently used of storage, Fritz said. That room suffered smoke and water damage and the rest of the second floor suffered damage, Fritz said. County fire investigators were at the house for a cause for the fire this afternoon.

 

 

 

November 12th, 2008

 

Reported fire on Tommy’s Trail

 

www.mcfd.org

 

On Wednesday November 12th, at 1900hrs, the volunteers of the Moyers Corners Fire Department were alerted to a structure fire on Tommy's Trail in the Battalion 2 response area.  This was the second structure fire on Tommy's Trail within a week.  The fires have been determined to be unrelated. Engine 21 [Capt. Brown] called out within a minute of dispatch as they had a fully staffed crew in quarters.  Due to their close proximity to Tommy's Trail, Liverpool Station 3 was also alerted. Battalion 1 [Crispin] arrived first with fire showing on the "A" side of the wood-framed duplex. Liverpool Engine 3 arrived and deployed a hand-line to the front door. Engine 21 arrived seconds later, brought in a hydrant, and stretched a second hand-line to the front door. As Liverpool Engine 3 forced entry to the front door, Engine 21 moved their hand-line to the rear of the structure making entry through a sliding glass door. Engine 21's crew encountered a room and contents fire in the kitchen area and made an aggressive attack. MCFD Truck 2 [FF Delong] arrived and laddered the building, vented the roof, and assisted in search and rescue. Engine 41 [Lt. Beardsley] assisted with overhaul efforts. Rescue 4 [Captain Zeppetello] filled the RIT assignment. Rescue 3 [Lt. J. Izzo] also assisted with search and rescue. The fire was knocked down by Engine 21's crew within ten minutes. Car 3 [Stevens] was operations while Battalion 3 [E. Fritz] was the Safety Officer. Liverpool Car 3 [Frani] also assisted on the scene
Cnycentral.com
LIVERPOOL, TOWN OF CLAY -- Fire crews were back on the same Liverpool street for the second time in less than a week. Onondaga County 911 dispatchers say the call came in at about 7:10 pm for flames in the 4100 block of Tommy's Trail. Deputy Chief Edward Stevens with the Moyers Corners fire department says no one was home when the fire started. He says the flames started in the kitchen, but can't speculate on a cause. The kitchen was damaged, but the house is not a total loss. It is one half of a duplex. The family living in the other side was allowed into their home to check for any damage. They still have power and gas. Last Thursday, flames sparked just two houses away at about the same time in the evening. Deputy Chief Stevens says neighbors are getting worried about home heating this early in the winter weather season.

 

December 3rd, 2008

 

Extrication on Route 57 at Balboa Drive

 

www.mcfd.org

 

On Saturday November 29th, at approximately 650 am, Moyers Corners Battalion One was alerted to a Motor Vehicle Collision on Route 57 near Balboa Drive. Initial Reports indicated a car may have hit an electrical pole. Battalion 1 (Crispin) was first to arrive and indicated to incoming units that there was an entrapment.
     Rescue 4 (Lt. Zaferakis) arrived moments later and  set-up for the extrication of the trapped semi-conscious driver.  Engine 41 (FF Zaferakis) arrived and stretched a handline  for scene safety. The Engine 41 crew then assisted the Rescue 4 Crew with the extrication. Engine 11 (Lt. Shaffer) manned the handline and assisted with the Safety Officer position. Rescue crews used all 4 hydraulic tools to "pop" the doors and remove the vehicle's roof.  The driver was extricated and loaded into NOVA ambulance within 14 minutes from the dispatch time. The driver was transported to an area hospital via NOVA ambulance where she is expected to recover. 

December 17th, 2008
Signal 99 on Route 57
www.mcfd.org
Engine 41 [Lt. Beardsley] was the first due engine. They brought in a hydrant and stretched a handline to the front of the structure to prepare for an aggressive interior attack. Rescue 4 [Lt. Zaferakis] arrived second, vented the attic windows from the exterior, forced entry into two doors on the rear of the structure, and searched to secure utilities. Engine 11 [Capt. Wisely] was the second due engine and stretched a second handline to back-up Engine 41's crew. Both crews were met with significant heat levels and zero visibility on the second floor. Truck 2 [Capt. Driscoll] laddered the structure, initiated roof operations, and conducted a search of the structure. Engine 22 [Lt. D. Izzo] secured a second hydrant and brought a handline to the rear of the structure to prepare for an exterior attack. As conditions inside began to deteriorate, Incident Command called for outside operations. Ladder 1 [Lt. Schweitzer] assisted with truck company operations.  Engine 31[Lt. J. Izzo] assisted with outside operations at the rear of the structure. Rescue 3 [Lt. Wisely] held the RIT assignment. After the bulk of the fire in the attic space was knocked down, crews were able to re-enter the structure to commence extensive overhaul. The fire was knocked down in 30 minutes and crews remained on the scene for another hour and a half.

 

2009
Chief Ed Wisnowski
 First Deputy Chief: Steve Race
Second Deputy Chief EJ Stevens
Battalion 1 Chief Frank Crispin
Battalion 2 Chief Steve Bressette
Battalion 3 Chief Steve Dembowski
Station 1 Captain Greg Shaffer
Station 2 Captains Mike G. Brown, Dan Izzo
Station 3 Captains Dennis Lyons, Mike J. Brown
Station 4 Captain Jered Zeppetello
Station 1 Lieutenants: Steve Schweitzer Kevin Delong
Station 2 Lieutenants: Mike Normanly, Jeff Belczak, Bob Driscoll
Station 3 Lieutenants: Jeff Izzo, Dan Stachurski
Station 4 Lieutenants: Steve Zaferakis, Tom Beardsley

 

Executive Board
 President Ken Filow
Vice President Bud Neuman 
Secretary Dick Kyle  Assistant Secretary Kyle Pieper 
Treasurer Fred Sears, Assistant Treasuer Phil Vogt

 

Fire Police:  Captain Steve Rubacky, Lt. Dick Kyle

 

Bunk Ins: Charlie Hess, Brad Badali, Keith Wadsworth, Josh Murphy, Trevor Goodenough

 

Auxiliary: President Norma Guinta, Vice President Brenda Kennedy, Recording Secretary Kim Brown, Treasurer Karen O’Sullivan, Chaplain Kathleen Heighton

 

 

 

January 6th

 

Passing of Chief Edwin Viel
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It is with our sincerest regrets that we announce the passing of Past Chief Edwin Viel. Chief  Viel joined the Moyers Corners Fire Department in 1960. He was a member of the original Station 2, located where McDonald's is now in Wegman's Plaza on Route 57. In 1962,  Mr. Viel was named Chief Engineer at Station 2, the first time this position was created in the department. He was an active member for many years following until he was voted in to the illustrious position of Department Chief. Chief Viel served in that capacity from 1972 – 1979. Additionally Chief Viel served as the Fire Marshal for the Town of Clay for many years. The members of the Moyers Corners Fire Department would like to extend their deepest sympathies to the Viel Family, and extend their deepest appreciation for Mr. Viel's dedication, service, and contribution to the fire department. We will all miss his comraderie, extraordinary sense of humor, and for those that knew him well, his secret handshake.  Rest in Peace Chief. You shall not be forgotten

 

 

 

January 13th, 2009

 

MCFD E22 and TK2 to Liverpool house fire

 

www.mcfd.org

 

On Monday, January 12, 2009 at 12:11 hours, Liverpool with mutual assistance from Moyers Corners (St. 2) and Baldwinsville (for the RIT) were dispatched for the house fire, fire from the front of the house at 123 Saltwell Rd.  Liverpool Car 2 (DC Vincentore) arrived confirmed the working fire, dispatched the Signal 99 and assumed command.  LVP Car 3 (DC Ormsby) arrived, assumed the operations sector as LVP E1 (Techmanski) arrived on their own hydrant and stretched the initial line to the front door and began suppression.  Moyers Corners Truck 2 was clearing another alarm in Bat. 1's area and offered their assistance to LVP Car 2.  Truck 2 (Lt. Driscoll) was added and arrived behind E22 (Lt. Belczak) as the first due Truck while E22 had the second due engine assignment.  The E22 crew was assigned the 2nd handline while the Truck crew was assigned vertical ventilation.  As Lakeside crews finished their searches (which proved negative) of the upper level, all crews were ordered out of the structure.  Once the bulk of the fire was knocked down, crews again returned into the structure for mop up and overhaul.  Other Units operating on scene included LVP E5, LVP T2, multiple squads, Baldwinsville R1 as the RIT assignment, and multiple cover assignments.  Moyers Corners units cleared by 14:00

 

 

 

January 14th, 2009

 

Trailer fire in Clay called suspicious by chief

 

Robert A. Baker

 

The Post Standard
CLAY, NY -- A trailer fire Tuesday afternoon in the Casual Estates in Clay is considered to have started under suspicious circumstances, a Moyers Corners fire chief said today. Firefighters were called to the vacant mobile home at 3:55 p.m., said Deputy Chief Edward J. Stevens, of the Moyers Corners Fire Department. Flames were coming out of every window when firefighters arrived. The fire's considered suspicious since the trailer had no gas or electricity service since October, Stevens said. Onondaga County fire investigators have not determined a cause, he said. No one was hurt in fighting the fire and the trailer was considered a loss.

 

 

 

January 16th, 2009
MCFD Receives Assistance to Firefighters Grant from FEMA, Operations and Safety, for $32,000. A purchase of a new SCBA Fill station was made with the grant.

 

 

 

February 4th, 2009

 

Daytime crews extricate one on Soule Road

 

www.mcfd.org

 

On Wednesday February 4th at approximately 3pm, the voluntters from Moyers Corners were alerted to a three vehicle Signal 80 on Soule Road at Burningtree. Rescue 4 [Capt. Zeppetello] arrived and began the extrication of one patient. Rescue 3 [Perkins] assisted with the extrication and patient packaging. Engine 11 [Capt. Shaffer] provided scene safety and also assisted with patient packaging. Engine 22 [Capt. Driscoll] also assisted with scene safety and patient packaging. Car 3 [Stevens] ran the command. The patient was extricated in less than 30 minutes

 

 

 

March 20th, 2009

 

Battalion One Extricates One

 

www.mcfd.org

 

Thursday, March 19th, 11:15pm. 
Moyers Corners Stations 1 and 4 were alerted to a motor vehicle collision on Soule Road near Route 57. Initial reports indicated that a vehicle had struck a tree. Rescue 4 [Lt. Zaferakis] and Battalion 1 [Crispin] arrived within minutes of the dispatch. Upon arrival, Rescue 4 reported that the driver of the vehicle would need minor extrication. Engine 11 [Lt. Delong] arrived moments later. The Engine 11 crew stretched and manned a handline, checked for vehicle hazards,  and assisted the rescue company with the extrication. Squad 4 also responded and assisted the rescue company. Rescue 4's crew "popped" the driver's door and packaged the patient for the awaiting NOVA ambulance crew. Total extrication time was 14 minutes. The driver was transported to an area hospital by NOVA. 
Units operating:  Rescue 4 - Lt. Zaferakis, Rescue Officer, Engine 11 - Lt. Delong, Safety Officer, Battalion 1 - BC Crispin, Command, Squad 4 - FF Kennedy

 

 

 

March 21st, 2009

 

Reported fire at Bayberry Plaza

 

www.mcfd.org

 

Saturday March 21st, 10:00am. 
The Moyers Corners Fire Department was alerted to a possible structure fire at the China Wong Restaurant at Bayberry Plaza in the Battalion 2 Response Area. Battalion 2 [Bressette] arrived first and indicated there was a heavy smoke condition in the restaurant. Car 2 [Race] arrived and established command. Battalion 1 [Crispin] arrived and assumed the interior sector. Battalion 2 [Bressette] handled the operations.  Rescue 4 [Lt. Zaferakis] arrived, split their crew into four teams, and gained entry on Side A of the restaurant. Ladder 1 [Capt. Shaffer] set up on Side A and prepared for roof operations. Engine 21 [Capt. Izzo] brought in a hydrant and stretched a line to the restaurant. Engine 11 [Lt. Schweitzer] arrived and positioned on Side C. Engine 41 [FF Filow] secured a second hydrant while their crew assisted Engine 21 with the second handline.  A significant smoke condition was found in the restaurant. Rescue 4's crew gained entry into an adjacent store through Side D and also started to overhaul within China Wong Restaurant. The rescue company also investigated the other adjacent stores Battalion 3 [Dembowski] covered the safety officer assignment. The fire suppression system in the restaurant effectively controlled the initial fire. Rescue 3 [Lt. Izzo] filled the RIT assignment. Truck 2 [Capt. Brown] staged on Side D. Truck 2, Engine 31, and Battalion 3 also responded to a fire alarm activation on Steelway North during the investigation of the reported fire at Bayberry Plaza. 
All units were in service within an hour

 

 

 

March 25th, 2009

 

Truck 2 assists at Liverpool house fire

 

www.mcfd.org

 

On Tuesday, March 24, 2009 at 18:05 hours, Liverpool with mutual assistance from Moyers Corners Truck 2 and Baldwinsville as the RIT were dispatched for the reported house fire with a couple calls at 1204 Oswego Street in the Village of Liverpool (2 houses away from Liverpool Station 1).  Liverpool Car 4 arrived to find fire showing from the 2nd floor and declared a working fire (Signal 99).  LVP E2 arrived with E5, both establishing their own water supplies and 2 attack lines were stretched from E5 to the fire floor.  Moyers Corners Truck 2 (FF Rowland) and Squad 2 (Lt. Belczak- returning from the hospital from earlier alarm) along with BC2 (BC Bressette) arrived 3rd due (1st speciality) and split into 2 crews (BC Bressette assigned Safety Officer), 1 opening up walls and ceilings while the other crew advanced an additional line into the structure.  After recognizing significant extension, command ordered interior crews out of the structure to allow for master stream operations.  Once master stream operations ceased, crews were again permitted back into the structure to continue checking for extension in knee walls and void spaces.  Pockets of fire were found and extinguished.  Moyers Corners equipment operated for approximately 2.5 hours before returning to service.  Moyers Corners E32 was assigned a coverage assignment to Liverpool during the incident.  Units operating on scene and in coverage assignments included Liverpool, Moyers Corners, Baldwinsville, Lakeside, Belgium Cold-Springs, Taunton, Clay, Mattydale, and Seneca River

 

 

 

March 30th, 2009

 

Minor fire on Princess Path

 

www.mcfd.org

 

Saturday March 28th, 2009. 9:30pm. 
The volunteers of Moyers Corners were alerted to a reported structure fire on Princess Path in the Battalion 1 response area. Car 3 [Stevens] arrived and reported heavy smoke from the C/D corner of the residence. 
Car 5 [S. Zaferakis] and Battalion 2 [Bressette] arrived moments later.  Engine 41 [FF Zaferakis] was the first due engine. They brought in a hydrant and stretched a line through the garage. Truck 2 [Lt. Belczak] arrived and split their crew to handle roof operations and interior overhaul. OCSD Air One lit up the scene and indicated to command that heat levels were highest around the chimney area. Rescue 4 [FF Watson] performed a quick search of the second floor and assisted with overhaul. First floor interior crews opened up the walls around the fireplace and limited the spread of fire. Truck 2's roof crew opened up the roof and assisted in overhaul from above. Ladder 1 [Lt. Delong] handled the RIT assignment and assisted with exterior lighting and utilities. Engine 21 [Capt. Brown] and Engine 31 [Lt. Izzo] pumped the first due hydrant and secured a second water source. Their crews also stretched additional handlines to assist interior crews. Rescue 3 [Lt. Stachurski] staged at the scene. Battalion 3 [Dembowski] was the safety officer. Crews were in service within an hour

 

 

 

April 20th, 2009

 

MCFD puts new Ladder 1 in service

 

www.mcfd.org

 

The Moyers Corners Fire Department recently took delivery of a 2008 Pierce 100 ft. Heavy Duty Aluminum Ladder Truck. This vehicle replaces the 1988 E-One Straight Tip Ladder 1. Members from all four stations went through extensive training this past weekend. The maiden voyage of new Ladder 1 was Sunday evening, responding to a smoke odor in Starbucks on Route 57. Training sessions were held on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday with Dave Neuber from Pierce Manufacturing. Paul Tyler from Tyler Fire Equipment assisted with the training exercises. Each day consisted of classroom and practical sessions giving the members an extensive and thorough review of the new Ladder 1. Captain Greg Shaffer and Ladder 1 Lieutenant Pete Klem conducted the driving sessions. The 2008 Pierce Ladder has a 100 ft. heavy duty aluminum ladder with a pre-piped waterway. 

The membership of the Moyers Corners Fire Department would like to thank Dave Neuber and Paul Tyler for their time conducting each excellent training session. We would also like to thank Captain Greg Shaffer and the Ladder 1 Committee for all of their hard work and dedication throughout the process. The members of Station 1 should also be commended for their work in removing equipment from the 1988 Ladder 1 and helping with getting the new Ladder 1 in service

 

 

 

May 21st 2009

 

Post Standard

 

Former fire chief will be honored Tuesday Former Moyers Corners Fire Chief Chet Fritz will be honored Tuesday at the third annual Volunteer Firefighter Night at Alliance Bank Stadium. The Syracuse Chiefs will play the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees, the New York Yankees' top farmclub, at 7 p.m. Firefighters are encouraged to arrive by 6:30 p.m. so they can watch Fritz receive the Onondaga County Volunteer Firefighters Association's "First Pitch" award during a pre-game ceremony. Fire apparatus will be on display in the stadium parking lot, and firefighters will answer questions from anyone interested in fire service. The OCVFA will raffle a pair of tickets to a Washington Nationals' game in Washington, D.C., an autographed baseball and five gift certificates to the Chiefs' gift shop.

 

 

 

May 27th, 2009

 

Past Chief Fritz honored

 

www.mcfd.org

 

Past Chief Chet Fritz of the Moyers Corners Fire Department was honored by the Onondaga County Volunteer Firefighter's Association Tuesday night. He recieved OCVFA's "First Pitch Award" during a ceremony on May 26, 2009 at a Syracuse Chief's game at Alliance Bank Staduim. The ball game was rained out, however, festivities were still held. Honor Guard was provided by Deputy Chief Stevens, Lt. Belczak, FF Ferguson, FF Frost, and FF Mather. Engine 21 and Squad 2 also made a presence to support the Chief and was staffed by Captain Brown,FF Zevotek and FF Kissock.Chief Bressette, Kevin Wisely, Stephen Wisely, Lt. Mike Normanly, Lt. Bob Driscoll and FF Rowland also went to honor Chief Fritz. Explorer's Robbie Distasio, Zach Paparo, Veronica Zampini, and Adriana Zampini also showed their support. Master of Ceremonies was Past Taunton Chief and Past MCFD Member Chip Piraino. Amber, Minoa, Brewerton, and Taunton Fire Department also provided apparatus for the event. Congratulations Chief Fritz on receiving this award and your continued dedication and service to the Moyers Corners Fire Department and Onondaga County

 

 

 

June 2nd, 2009

 

Minor fire on Foster Road

 

www.mcfd.org
Sunday, May 31st, 1830 hours. The Moyers Corners Fire Department was alerted to a possible structure fire on Foster Road in the Station 4 response area. One person was reported as possibly being trapped in the fire. Foster Road runs along the Seneca River, off of Wetzel Road. Battalion 1 Chief Crispin arrived first and reported heavy fire from a 15'x15' wood framed structure. Car 3 [Stevens] arrived second and assumed the operations. Car 5 [Capt. Lyons] arrived and assumed the safety officer position. Battalion 2 Chief Bressette and Car 2 [Race] also responded. Engine 41 [Lt. Beardsley] was the first due engine. They established a water supply from the closest hydrant and began attacking the fire from the exterior. Rescue 4 [Lt. Zaferakis] arrived behind 41. The rescue company then helped make 41's hydrant, assisted in obtaining access to the structure by knocking down fencing, and stretched a second handline. Truck 2 [FF Zevotek] assisted with overhaul. Crews were in service within 30 minutes

 

 

 

June 18th, 2009

 

MCFD assists Liverpool FD

 

www.mcfd.org

 

At 0649hrs on Monday June 15th MCFD Truck 2 (Capt. Izzo) and E-32 were alerted as first due truck and second due engine on the commercial building fire at 1333 Buckley Rd in the Liverpool Fire District. Liverpool C-2 arrived with nothing evident from the exterior and assumed the command. MCFD C-2 arrived just ahead of Truck 2 and was assigned the interior. Truck 2 arrived and positioned side C, split into exterior and interior and went to work. Truck 2’s interior crew encountered a light smoke condition inside the single story restaurant with a burning odor. Liverpool E-2 had initially made an assessment of a roof top unit however conditions continued to deteriorate. Command struck the second alarm for manpower and MCFD E-32 (BC Dembowski) laid a supply line across Buckley road to Liverpool E-2. The second alarm brought MCFD E-21 (Capt. Brown) from station two to staging. Truck 2’s interior crew secured the power and began searching for concealed fire in the roof structure, while the exterior crew provided vertical ventilation. Truck 2 and Liverpool E-2 located a fire burning in the roof structure which was exposed and extinguished. MCFD E-21 provided overhaul and relief for the initial crews. MCFD units cleared at 0845hrs

 

 

 

June 21st, 2009

 

MCFD helps raise money for cancer research

 

www.mcfd.org

 

Members of the Moyers Corners Fire Department came out for a good cause on Saturday June 20th. They participated in the OCM BOCES Carrer Academy in Liverpool. The proceeds from the event went to the Carol M. Baldwin Breast Cancer Research Fund. While the weather may not have been the best, that didn't stop the members of the department from showing the kids that attended a good time. Explorers from the department's explorer post put on a demonstration on stop, drop, and roll. They also showed the kids how they put their gear on and let the kids try it as well. The department also brought several fire trucks for everyone to look at. Several children even had their pictures taken in the driver's seat! Carol Baldwin her self even stoped by and took a picture with the firefighters. Lieutenant Jeff Belczak promised that if the department raised enough money, he would go in the dunk tank. Sure enough, the firefighters and explorers raised the money and Lt. Belczak ended up wet but he didn't mind, it was for a good cause

 

 

 

July 7th, 2009

 

MCFD extricates two at Soule Road and Route 57

 

www.mcfd.org 
July 7th, 2009. 0730am. Moyers Corners was alerted to a Motor Vehicle Accident at the intersection of Soule Road and Route 57. Initial reports indicated a possible entrapment. Battalion One [Crispin] arrived and confirmed that report, stating that two patients in the white vehicle would need extrication. Rescue 4 [Lt. Zaferakis] arrived and prepped the Nissan Altima for extrication. Squad 4 [FF Kennedy] arrived shortly after the Rescue Company and started patient care on the other vehicle. Engine 11 [FF Gaido] stretched a handline and provided scene safety for the extrication. Engine 22 [Capt. Izzo] stretched a handline, provided scene safety, and assisted in packaging the patient in the other vehicle. Rescue 3 [Capt. Brown] provided manpower for the extrication and handled the patient packaging for the vehicle not involving extrication.Rescue 4's crew removed the roof and driver's door to free the driver and passenger of the Nissan Altima. Total extrication time was approximately fifteen minutes. NOVA and GBAC transported the victim's to area hospitals. Baldwinsville Squad 3 and Rescue 6 also responded. Units operating on the scene were:

 

BC1 - Frank Crispin, Car 2 - Steve Race, Rescue 4 - Lt. Zaferakis, Rescue 3 - Captain Brown
Engine 11 - FF Gaido, Engine 22 - Captain Izzo, Squad 4 - FF Kennedy, Baldwinsville Squad 3 and Rescue 6
NOVA - 2 rigs, GBAC - 1 rig, Onondaga County Sheriff's Department

 

July 11th, 2009

 

Reported fire on Mallard Path

 

www.mcfd.org
The Moyers Corners Fire Department was alerted to a reported structure fire on Mallard Path in the Battalion Two response area. Battalion 1 [Crispin] arrived with heavy smoke showing from the front of the residence. He then assumed the operations sector. Battalion 3 [Dembowski] arrived and established the incident command. Battalion 2 [Bressette] was the incident safety officer. Engine 21 [Lt. Driscoll] and Engine 41 [Lt. Zaferakis] arrived almost simultaneously. Engine 21 positioned just past the structure while Engine 41 brought up the hydrant. Engine 21 was able to "hand-jack" back to 41 to establish a continuous water supply. Engine 21's crew stretched an 1 3/4" handline to the second floor. Engine 41 brought in the 2" handline, but was diverted to interior truck company work as ceilings and walls needed to be exposed. Truck 2 [Cpt. Izzo] positoned on "Side A" of the residence and prepared for roof work. Their crew successfully opened up the roof in numerous locations. Rescue 3 [Cpt. Lyons] assisted with overhaul and suppression on the second floor as heavy fire was located in the attic space by interior crews. A signal 99 was then struck by Command. An aggressive and coordinated attack by the first arriving crews kept the fire confined to the attic area. Ladder 1 [Lt. Klem] assisted Truck 2 on the roof sector. Engine 31 [FF Herrick] assisted with overhaul. Mutual Aid was received from Liverpool Truck 2 and an Engine Company from North Syracuse. Units were picking up within an hour and a half from dispatch.

 

 

 

July 11th, 2009

 

Two Onondaga County house fire reported in mid-afternoon

 

Robert A. Baker

 

The Post Standard 
Fires were reported minutes apart in two homes during thunderstorms that rolled through Onondaga County this afternoon. The first was reported at 3:08 p.m. at 104 Evans Drive, Van Buren, the Onondaga County 911 Center reported. The home was extensively damaged by fire. Lakeside Fire Department put out that blaze. Homeowners Roger and Carol Vance were away at the time, but their three dogs were inside the home, Carol Vance said. One dog died and firefighters revived a second, Vance said. The couple buried the dog, Precious, behind their house Saturday afternoon. Three-year-old Precious was the offspring of the other two dogs and was the smallest of the litter of 10, she said. "She only had one eye and a crooked tail," Vance said. "She was the best pet I ever had. I would hold her in my arms and sing to her like a baby." Vance said firefighters told her a lightning strike caused the fire. The Red Cross made arrangements to house the couple.

 

The second fire was reported at 3:12 p.m. at 25 Mallard Path, Clay, said Battalion Chief Steve Dembowski, of the Moyers Corners Fire Department. No one was at home at the time of the fire, he said. The fire, which was reported by a neighbor, did substantial damage to the home's attic, Dembowski said. His fire department was aided by North Syracuse and Liverpool fire departments. The cause of the fire is under investigation, Dembowski said.

 

July 19th, 2009

 

MCFD mourns the loss of a charter member

 

www.mcfd.org
William Frederick Arnold  1922-2009

 

In 1948, Bill Arnold proudly paid his $25 fee to join the newly created Moyers Corners Fire Department. That fee was used to help purchase the first engine. A fire station was also needed, so Bill paid in sweat equity by helping to dig the footers, pour concrete, and put up block and mortar. For the next 40 years, he was the longest serving Charter Member that was qualified as an Interior Firefighter. Mr. Arnold was very involved in the operations of the MCFD. He held every office and position besided Chief of Department. He also participated in the second Paramedic Class held in Onondaga County, and kept his certification for over 15 years. At the annual field days, Bill was one the head chicken cookers. He was a staple at the annual banquet and clambake. The Arnold legacy lives on with his son Tom, who is currently a firefighter at Station 1. The Moyers Corners Fire Department would like to express its deepest condolences to the Arnold family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We thank you for your 60 plus years of service to the fire department, and for being part of a special team of neighbors that started it all

 

July 23rd, 2009
Fire damages home in Clay

 

Robert A. Baker

 

The Post Standard 
A fire heavily damaged a house in Clay late Wednesday night. Moyers Corners Fire Department was called at 11:43 p.m. to the house at 4769 Royal Meadow Drive, said John Rinefierd, of the county Department of Emergency Management.  There were no reports of injuries.

 

 

 

July 27th, 2009

 

Clay family of six homeless after Casual Estates fire

 

Sarah Moses

 

The Post Standard
CLAY, NY -- A family of six was homeless Monday night after a fire destroyed its mobile home in Casual Estates in Clay. Lucena Vieira and Fred Roth were planning on getting married Aug. 22, but those plans may be on hold, her family said. The couple, who live at 1110 Cloister Court with Vieira's daughter Erica Wood and three grandchildren, lost everything they own in the fire. It took fire crews about five minutes to knock down the blaze, which began shortly before 8 p.m., said Ed Wisnowski, Moyers Corners fire chief. The family was not home at the time of the fire, but two pet rabbits died, said Karon Hall, Vieira's mother who also lives in Causal Estates. The family's pet cat, however, escaped the blaze. Vieira's grandchildren are Aireana Laniera,11; Izayiah Hynes, 7; and Nicole Bacon, 3. Aireana and Izayiah are Wood's children. Izayiah is diabetic and his insulin, stored in the kitchen refrigerator, was destroyed. Izayiah was also devastated that the bunnies died, Hall said. The Red Cross is assisting the family and fire investigators are looking for a cause.
Your News Now
CLAY, N.Y. -- A Clay family has been left homeless after fire destroyed their mobile home. The Moyers Corners fire chief says a neighbor called in the fire about eight Monday evening at a home on Cloister Court in the Casual Estates Mobile Home Community. The chief says a family of five lives in the home, but no one was home when the fire started. The chief says the trailer went up quickly and about a third of it was burning by the time crews arrived. Trailer homes go up a lot faster. By the time you get the call and you respond to get on the scene, usually if there's any significant fire, it's already gone through most of the fire," said Moyers Corners Fire Chief Ed Wisnowski.

 

July 30th, 2009
Moyers Corners Fire Department adds 12 members
The Post Standard
By Erin Austin
The Moyers Corners Fire Department is proud to announce the acceptance of 12 new members, bringing the department’s active roster of volunteers to 115. As volunteer fire departments across the county suffer from dwindling numbers of volunteers, MCFD hasd been able to keep its membership high and draw in a record number of new members in the past few months. New York state requires volunteer firefighters to complete the Firefighter 1 class offered through the Office of Fire Prevention and Control. With the overall number of new members in area departments being relatively low, the class is offered only a few times a year. With the large influx of new members, MCFD hasn’t been able to get these members into a class fast enough. Chief Edward Wisnowski was happy with how many new members the department has received in the last few months. “I can’t remember the last time we had this many new members. This is a great thing for the residents of our community,“ said Wisnowski. Lt. Steve Zaferakis says that getting proper training for these new members is critical, both for safety and so they are familiar with what it takes to be a volunteer firefighter. In an effort to start training new members, MCFD has started its own class for its members. While this does not replace the state’s calss, the officers teaching the calss are following the state’s curriculum. The next state class is scheduled to be offered something this fall. This class helps members get acquainted with the Moyers Corners Fire Department and its operations and what they can expect from the state class. While these new members have different interests, they also share one thing in common, to fulfill the MCFD mission statement to its community: “to minimize the loss of life and property resulting from fires, medical emergencies and exposure to dangerous conditions created by man or nature.” The Moyers Corners Fire Department has served the residents of Clay for more than 60 years. Moyers Corners, along with several other departments, provide fire and rescue services to the 55,000 residents of the Town of Clay. Moyers Corners is an ISO class 3 department that operates four stations and is one of the largest of all volunteer fire departments in Onondaga County.

 

August 15th, 2009

 

Working vacant trailer fire

 

www.mcfd.org

 

Moyers Corners Fire Department was alerted to a reported vacant mobile home fire. Battalion 1 [Crispin] arrived first with heavy fire showing, making the alarm a Signal 99. Engine 41 [Lt. Beardsley] was first due. They laid in to a hydrant directly in front of the trailer and began protecting an exposed trailer approximately twenty feet from the fire. Belgium Cold Springs Engine 12 standing by at MCFD Station 1 was second due and began fire attack from the exterior, opposite side of Engine 41's crew. Rescue 4 [FF Filow] stretched an additional handline and also attacked the fire from the exterior. Battalion 2 [Bressette] handled the fire operations. Engine 21 [FF Rowland] and Engine 11 [Lt. Schweitzer] relieved initial crews and aided in fire suppression. Rescue 3 [Capt. Lyons] covered the RIT assignment. Other units assisting and operating on the scene were Liverpool Truck 2, Clay Engine, and NOVA Ambulance. The fire was knocked down within 30 minutes and crews were in service in an hour and a half.

 

August 15th, 2009

 

Fire destroys Casual Estates mobile home in Clay

 

Bart Pollack

 

The Post Standard

 

CLAY, NY -- A fire destroyed a vacant mobile home in the Casual Estates trailer park Saturday night. No one was injured, fire officials said. Fire crews were called to Ealing Court shortly after 9 p.m., according to Battalion Chief Steven Bressette of the Moyers Corners Fire Department. He said the mobile home was a total loss. No one was inside of the structure, and no firefighters were hurt, Bressette said. An alert 11-year-old neighbor, Michael Marsala, spotted the fire and reported it to 911. Marsala said he first noticed people standing in his backyard, then saw flames coming from the back of a neighboring mobile home. "It moved from back to front," he said. When firefighters arrived, the trailer was fully involved.  Joseph Ziparo, who lives at 6717 Ealing Court next door to the trailer that burned, tried to save his own home from being damaged by the blaze. "I was trying to hose down my siding, but obviously it didn't work too well," Ziparo said, pointing to melted siding on his mobile home.  Ziparo said he has kicked kids out of the vacant trailer several times. Neighbors said the trailer that burned has been vacant for about a year. A fire on July 27 in the same trailer park left a family six homeless.

 

 

 

August 24th, 2009

 

Engine 22 and 32 run 2nd alarm fire to Liverpool

 

www.mcfd.org

 

Liverpool Fire Department, Moyers Corners Station Two (E22) and Baldwinsville Fire Department (RIT) were dispatched to a reported commercial fire at the intersection of Long Branch Road and Route 370. A caller indicated there was smoke and fire showing from the top window of Zorbas Restaurant.  The first arriving Chief reported smoke showing from the vents on the east side of the building.  Liverpool E6 arrived first, establishing their own water supply. MCFD E22 (Lt. Normanly) arrived within 5 minutes of dispatch as the initial supply line was being laid and positioned to establish the secondary water supply.  Meanwhile, Liverpool command (Car 1- Chief Frani) declared the working fire and gave the signal 99 assignment. Command also requested an additional alarm which brought MCFD E32 (Capt. MJ Brown) to the scene.  Liverpool and Moyers Corners crews worked aggressively to extinguish the fire located in the attic of the structure (as fire began to vent from the roof vent).  Crews pulled multiple layers of ceilings to locate and extinguish the fire.  The fire was declared under control within 25 minutes of dispatch

 

 

 

August 24th, 2009

 

Tweeter Feeders Wreck

 

 

 

September 11th, 2009

 

Reported fire on Deerfield Road

 

www.mcfd.org

 

Moyers Corners daytime crews were alerted to a possible structure on Deerfield Road in the Battalion 2 response area. Battalion 3 Chief Steve Dembowski arrived with 'smoke showing' from the front of the structure and established command. Engine 21 [Lt. Driscoll] was the first due engine and started the initial attack line. Engine 41 [Capt. Zeppetello] arrived second, established a water supply, and did a primary search of the residence. Truck 2 [Capt. Izzo] arrived and covered the laddering and ventilation assignments. Engine 31 [Lt. Stachurski] stretched a second handline into the residence. MCFD Car 2 [Race] covered the operations sector while Liverpool Car 3 [Ormsby] assisted. Liverpool Engine 6 and MCFD Ladder 1 also assisted on the scene. Interior crews found a fire in the kitchen area with minor extension to the cabinets. Crews were in service within 30 minutes

 

 

 

October 15th, 2009

 

Battalion 1 assists Belgium with extrication on River Road

 

www.mcfd.org

 

On Wednesday October 15th at approximately 4 pm, Moyers Corners Rescue 4 was alerted to a reported rollover on River Road in the Belgium Cold Springs Fire District. Initial reports stated a person was trapped under the vehicle.  Battalion 1 [Crispin] went en route and was asked by Fire Control if a crew was standing by at Station 1. MCFD Station 1 was alerted and a crew from Engine 11 [FF Eldred] went en route within a minute. Belgium Cold Springs Car 1 [Evans] was the first to arrive and informed incoming units that one person was trapped inside the vehicle. Rescue crews from Belgium arrived and started vehicle stabilization. MCFD Engine 11 provided scene safety and started patient care on the trapped victim. Rescue 4 [Lt. Zaferakis] arrived and assisted with the extrication. Entry was made on the rolled-over vehicle by cutting the "C" and "B" posts, then cutting the roof down behind the "B" post. The patient was then packaged and turned over to a crew from GBAC Ambulance. Total extrication time was approximately 20 minutes. Three other patients in the vehicle were transported to Crouse Hospital, while the other patient was transported to University Hospital

 

 

 

October 21st, 2009

 

Daytime crews respond to 4-vehicle MVC

 

www.mcfd.org

 

On Monday October 19th, daytime crews from Moyers Corners responded to a four vehicle Motor Vehicle Collision on Route 57 near Wetzel Road. Truck 2 [Capt. Brown] was out driver training in the area and responded. Battalion 3 [Dembowski] arrived and established command. Rescue 4 [Capt. Zeppetello] extricated one patient by "popping" the driver's side door. Rescue 3 [FF Jennings], Squad 1 [FF Murphy], and Truck 2 asisted with packaging four other patients. Engine 22 [FF Fritz]provided scene safety. Nova Ambulance and Navac Ambulance transported the patients

 

 

 

November 8th, 2009

 

Rescue 4 extricates 1 on Soule Road

 

www.mcfd.org

 

Moyers Corners Battalion 1 was alerted to a motor vehicle collision following a police pursuit on Soule Road near the middle school. Battalion 1 [Crispin] arrived and notified incoming units that one patient would need to be extricated. Rescue 4 [Lt. Zaferakis] arrived first, stabilized the vehicle, and extricated the patient by removing the roof of the sedan. Engine 11 [Lt. Schweitzer] arrived and provided scene support and safety. Engine 41 [FF Sears] assisted Rescue 4 with the extrication. Engine 22 [Lt. Belczak] was also called to the scene for additional support. Total extrication time was 13 minutes. NOVA Ambulance transported the patient to a local hospital

 

 

 

November 16th, 2009
‘Bunkins’ making a difference in your community
Eagle News 
By Erin Austin
In 1994, then Chief Greg Tiner, was looking for ways to reduce response times and solve manpower issues. The answer in part was to participate in the Onondaga Community College Fire Protection “bunkin” program. From that point forward, the Moyers Corners Fire Department has been participating in the bunkin program, which was modeled after a program in Prince George’s County, Maryland.   Today the interested students will generally start contacting Captain Greg Shaffer in their junior year of high school. The interviews are then held in May so that MCFD can make the decision of which applicants will be accepted. For training purposes and scheduling, bunkin’s will only be accepted into the fall semester.

The bunkin candidate needs to be an active member in a volunteer fire department in New York State, outside of Onondaga County, and they must also be accepted into the Fire Protection Program at Onondaga Community College, where they are required to maintain a 2.5 grade-point average or higher. The students are assigned to live in one of the four stations for an entire year, making it two bunkins per station. They are each assigned their own bedroom, and have shareable facilities amongst the both of them.  

 

The Moyers Corners Fire Department consists of two rescue houses, Stations 3 and 4, and two ladder-truck houses at Stations 1 and 2. The department wants the students to gain as much knowledge and experience as possible while staying at MCFD. Therefore, they are given the opportunity to run calls out of both the rescue houses and the ladder-truck houses.  After they have completed their first year at their designated station, upon their return they will be sent to a different station in order to obtain more knowledge and gain more practice. 

Returning bunkin, Trevor Goodenough, comes from Oneida County. Goodenough spent his first year at Moyers Corners, running calls out of Station 4 and becoming proficient with engine and rescue company operations. Although he became well acquainted with all of the rescue company operations, Goodenough really enjoys where he is right now, at Station 2. Here, he is able to participate in much more truck work, which includes: search and rescue, ventilation, ladder work, etc. Upon graduating from OCC and perusing his goals of becoming a career firefighter, Goodenough plans on attending the University of Maryland for his bachelor’s or master’s degree in fire protection engineering while participating in Prince George’s County Fire Department. Goodenough really enjoys what he does, but is more concerned about helping out the public. “Everyone loves to ride the engine or truck to fire calls but to me, the thanks given by the families and people affected means much more,” Goodenough said. “Giving back to the community and teaching children about fire safety…is what it’s really about for me.”

First year bunkin, Kyle Thompson joined MCFD due to the great reputation the fire department has. Thompson has been a member of the West Monroe Volunteer Fire Department for five years and is really enjoying his time at Station 1. Being in his first semester at OCC, Thompson is taking fire instructor and fire officer classes, which help him to gain insight in becoming a good leader, as well as a good teacher. Thompson is eager to run calls and become acquainted with MCFD. Thompson said he didn’t get the same volume of calls in his hometown. “Also the camaraderie,” has been important to Thompson. 
After graduating from OCC in the spring of 2011 Thompson plans on going to the University of North Carolina at Charlotte for more fire service experience.  Before becoming cleared on all the apparatus, and being able to participate as an “interior structural firefighter” the bunkins must have completed their New York State Firefighter 1 course. They are all scheduled to arrive one week before school starts, and they will all have their physicals, fit tests, and sized for duty uniforms. After this, the training then includes bloodbourne, EMS protocol, SOP review, engine company operations, ladder company operations and rescue company operations. They are also required to take a class in kitchen cleanliness and cooking rules. According to Shaffer, at the end of the first week, the group was brought to Adam Eden’s camp in Lafayette, New York, for a team building experience. This specific training was done by Tom Gardner of Team Adventure. Visit teamadventurecny.com for more information. 

The bunkins participated in both verbal and non-verbal communication group activities. Among the several activities that they participated in, one was a rope course with zip lines, which included high and low elements. The students, as well as the instructors had a great time uniting as a team. Throughout the activities that were offered at this camp, the students were able to gain trust in one another, while building confidence in them. 
Being a bunkin is a truly rewarding experience. The students are able to gain much information and knowledge from a different fire department, while meeting new people and participating in new activities. The Moyers Corners Fire Department and the tax payers of the town of Clay have reaped great benefit from the program. 
The bunkin program is here to stay, says Chief Ed Wisnowski. Participating in fire calls, and learning the apparatus is a very large part while fulfilling a duty as a firefighter, however it’s only the beginning. Come prepared to have a great time, while meeting new people and finding life-long companionships in brotherhood and sisterhood. 

Erin Austin is the director of corporate communications Moyers Corners Fire Department.

 

 

 

November 17th, 2009

 

MCFD 1st annual pigskin classic

 

www.mcfd.org

 

On Saturday, November 14, 2009, the members of Moyers Corners gathered for the 1st Annual MCFD Pigskin Classic Football game.  In all, 32 members participated in the event while nearly 25 spouses, significant others, children, and friends cheered their respective Battalion along.  In the end, Battalion 1 (Stations 1 and 4) made the necessary goal line stance and drove the entire length of the field to defeat the newly created Battalion 2 (Stations 2 and 3) in a close set of games

 

 

 

November 21st, 2009
Bunk-Ins learn fire safety first-hand
Allison Lazarz
Your News Now
CLAY, N.Y. -- Eight Onondaga Community College students are part of the Moyers Corners Bunk-in program.Instead of living at home or in a college dorm, the students live right in the department's fire stations. "They do many different details, they basically have a work list. Something as simple as basically chores in the fire house, making sure the fire houses are maintained, the apparatus is maintained, apparatus checks," said Moyers Corners Fire Department Deputy Chief Edward J. Stevens. In addition to basic chores, the bunk-ins get the invaluable experience of going out on calls and working side by side with volunteers at the department."Every call is something new so there's always something to learn. The schooling gives us the knowledge while bunking in gives us the experience," said Trevor Goodenough, a second-year bunk-in.

 

While the bunk-ins get experience, the surrounding communities get the benefit of a volunteer department that can respond to calls quicker."If you've already got half the staffing, and you've got the first two people in the door here, we get our apparatus out of here on a regular basis between the 3-5 minute mark, it's a tremendous help and it obviously is a safety factor for the community," said Stevens. Because the bunk-ins live right in the fire houses, their college experience is a little different than your typical college student who lives in a dorm room. "We don't live the typical college life, we spend a lot of time running fire calls-- while kids are out hanging out with friends we're out riding fire trucks to all different types of alarms," said Goodenough.To be in the program, students must maintain a minimum G.P.A of 2.5.They must also live outside of Onondaga County and go through an interview process before being accepted to the bunk-in program.There are other departments in Onondaga County that run similar programs.

 

 

 

December 19th, 2009

 

Signal 80 rollover on Wetzel Road

 

www.mcfd.org

 

Moyers Corners Station 4 and 2 were alerted to a vehicle rollover on Wetzel Road near Aurora Path. One person was reported to be trapped. Battalion 1 [Crispin] arrived first, confirmed that one person was trapped inside the vehicle, and reported that a 'heavy extrication' would be required. Car 3 [Stevens] arrived and established command. Rescue 4 [Lt. Zaferakis] arrived, shored the vehicle, and started the extrication. Engine 22 [Lt. Belczak] stretched a handline and provided scene safety. Extrication of one patient was completed by a full roof removal and partial steering wheel removal. The patient was packaged and delivered to an awaiting NOVA Ambulance stretcher. Total extrication time was 18 minutes

 

 

 

December 23rd, 2009

 

Engine 32 assists Liverpool FD on working fire

 

www.mcfd.org

 

The morning started out with the daytime holiday party at Moyers Corners Station 3. As crews were cleaning from the mornings festivities, the house tones sounded for a house fire in the Liverpool Fire District. MCFD Engine 32 [FFJ. Wisely] was on the road immediately due to members at the station. MCFD E32 was the second piece of apparatus on the scene and first engine behind Liverpool truck 2. Smoke was showing upon arrival. First line and primary search conducted by these units. Crews had a tough time finding the basement stairs due to floor to ceiling smoke. During that time heavy fire began to show from the rear basement windows. Evacuation was ordered by command. Several minutes later the crews re-grouped and re-entered the structure. Primary search was completed and the attack team located the basement stairs in the kitchen only to be greeted by a heavy volume of fire. Crews were pushed back out of the kitchen and a second evacuation tone was alerted. Outside operations were conducted and the majority of the fire was knocked down via the rear basement windows. MCFD Engine 21 [Capt. Izzo] staged at Liverpool Station 1

 

December 24th, 2009
MCFD crews spread some holiday cheer
www.mcfd.org
Saturday December 19th- Crews from MCFD Station 4 conducted their annual Santa Claus detail in the Station 4 response area. Rescue 4, Engine 41, Squad 4, the Battalion Chief , and Santa started out at 8am driving to the designated "Santa Stops" in the different neighborhoods. Christmas music and sirens let the public know Santa was at their stop with his favorite elves, the firefighters. The children came out in droves to see Santa, the firefighters, and the apparatus Wednesday December 23rd- December 23rd was a busy evening for the Wednesday Night standby crew. Not an evening filled with emergency calls, but an evening filled with costumes and Christmas cheer for the MCFD chief officers and their families. Between 6pm - 8pm Truck 2 and Engine 22 could be seen driving throughout the district with staffing comprised of Santa, two reindeer, a tree, a present, a wreath, a snowman, a Grinch and a very tall elf! While receiving several strange looks from passerby the crews made the rounds to all our chief officers to wish them a Merry Christmas.

 

December 30th, 2009
MCFD Station 3 Ends 2009 with working fire in Mattydale
www.mcfd.org
On December 30 2009 at approximately 1625 hrs Moyers Corners Rescue 3 was requested to a possible fire in the Mattydale Fire District. MCFD Car 2 (DC S. Race) and Rescue 3 (Lt. Izzo).  As Rescue 3 pulled out of the station a thick black cloud of smoke could be seen it the distance. Shortly after upon arrival of the first Mattydale Chief, a signal 99 was transmitted. Rescue 3 arrived took up RIT responsibilities.  Lt J. Izzo did a "360" of the 1 story ranch and found that there was an incomplete deck and a propane gas grill in the rear of the house.  Command was also alerted to a live down power line in the front yard.  Safety cones were placed around the area of the downed power line. After the fire was extinguished, RIT was discontinued by command.  Rescue 3 assisted in overhaul of the garage area. Where the fire was believed to have started.  The Onondaga County Fire Investigators complimented the crew from MCFD on how through we are at overhaul and that we preserved what is thought to be the area of origin well. Rescue 3 and Car 2 went back in service at approx. 1830 hours. 

 

 

 

2010
Chief Ed Wisnowski
1st Deputy Chief: Steve Race
2nd Deputy Chief: EJ Stevens
3rd Deputy Chief: Frank Crispin
 Battalion 1 Chief: Steve Zaferakis
Battalion 2 Chief Steve Dembowski

 

Station 1 Captain Pete Klem 
Station 2 Captain Dan Izzo
Station 3 Captain Dennis Lyons
Station 4 Captain Jered Zeppetello

 

Station 1 Lieutenants: Steve Schweitzer, Nick Eldred
Station 2 Lieutenants: Bob Driscoll, Robin Zevotek, Mike Hoosock 
Station 3 Lieutenants: Jeff Izzo, Mitch Goldberg, Mike J. Brown
Station 4 Lieutenants: Tom Beardsley, Derek Watson

 

Executive Board:
President Ken Filow
Vice President Bud Neuman
Treasurer Phil Vogt, Assistant Treasurer Kyle Pieper
Secretary Dick Kyle,  Assistant Treasurer Steve Leeper

Fire Police: Captain Gary Johnson, Lieutenants Steve Mauser, Randy Frost

Bunk Ins: Josh Murphy, Kyle Thomspn, Trevor Goodenough, Donny Hess, Sam Colburn, Charlie Hess, Ryan Pidgeon, Keith Wadsworth

 

Auxiliary: President Norma Guinta, VP Kathleen Heighton, Rec. Kim Brown, Treasurer Sandy Morris, Chaplain Kathleen Heighton

 

2 Battalion Concept

New Apparatus: 2010 Pierce Quantum E41

 

January 2010
Highlights of Week 4 in January 2010
www.mcfd.org
Tuesday January 26th. An icy morning commute caused many accidents to start the date. First was on Morgan Road. Battalion 2 [Dembowski] and Car 1 [Wisnowski] arrived and informed units that two patients would need to be packaged. Rescue 3 and Engine 22 handled the patient care and scene safety. Meanwhile on John Glen Boulevard, numerous vehicles were sliding off the road. Battalion 1 [Zaferakis] arrived and indicated that 6 vehicles were off the roadway. Rescue 4, Engine 21, and Engine 11 handled many patient refusals. Wednesday January 27th, 1630 hrs. MCFD crews were alerted to a motor vehicle collision on Henry Clay Boulevard and Buckley Road involving a Centro Bus. Rescue 3 and Engine 22 arrived with Battalion 1. The driver of the vehicle that collided with the rear of the Centro Bus had significant injuries and needed to be extricated. The roof of the vehicle was entirely removed to ease the patient's egress from the vehicle. NOVA treated the patient and transported him to an area hospital.

 

Thursday January 28th, 0830 hrs. MCFD Stations were alerted to a motor vehicle collison on Route 57 and Lucan Drive. Dispatch indicated that one of the vehicles was a Liverpool Central School Bus, not occupied with children. Battalion 1 [Zaferakis] arrived first to the head-on collison in the median. Rescue 4 [Watson]  arrived and started patient care on the driver of the SUV. Engine 22 [Hoosock] provided scene safety and assisted Rescue 4 with patient packaging of the driver of the school bus. Injuries were reported as minor. NOVA and GBAC Ambulance transported the patients to area hospitals. Friday January 29th, 1139 hrs. Moyers Corners daytime crews were alerted to a signal 80 at the intersection of Morgan Road and Grampian Road.  Engine-22 [Lt. Hoosock] arrived first to find two vehicles involved with moderate damage to both vehicles.  One of the vehicles involved also went off the roadway striking a utility pole as well as a National Grid electric box.  Rescue 4 [Lt. Beardsley] arrived next and assisted with the packaging of one injured operator while Engine-22 addressed the hazards from both vehicles.  Medical care of one elderly patient was transferred to NOVA ambulance while the scene was turned over to the Sheriff's office.  All units back in service by 1157 hours. Earlier that day, Engine 22 handled a vehicle fire at Jim's Service Center on Morgan Road

 

February 28th, 2010
Reported fire on Gaskin Road
www.mcfd.org
Just at the halftime mark of the sold out Syracuse vs. Villanova basketball game, MCFD was alerted to a reported house fire on Gaskin Road in the Battalion One response area. Battalion 1 Chief Steve Zaferakis arrived first with heavy smoke showing from the single story residence and established command. After a brief size-up, a Signal 99 was struck as fire was evident from the rear of the structure. Car 4 [Crispin] and Car 3 [Stevens] arrived moments later and assumed the operations sector. Engine 41 [Lt. Watson] was the first due Engine Company. They brought in the closest hydrant and stretched an attack line. Rescue 4 [Lt. Beardsley] arrived and stretched a second handline. Truck 2 [Lt. Zevotek] arrived and prepared for ventilation and entry. As 41 got to the front door and entry was made, heavy fire then rolled out of the structure. A brief aggressive interior attack was made by crews until operations called for an exterior attack due to failing roof conditions. Engine 11 [Lt. Schweitzer] pumped Engine 41's hydrant, and their crew assisted on the scene. Car 2 [Race] assumed the safety officer position. Car 1 [Wisnowski] was assigned to manpower.  Rescue 3 [Captain Lyons] covered the RIT assignment. Engine 31 [BC Dembowski] brought in a third hydrant and stretched a line to Truck 2 for a master stream. Engine 21 [Captain Izzo] staged with manpower. An elevated master stream by Truck 2 knocked down the bulk of the fire and allowed crews to re-enter the structure. The fire was contained in 30 minutes. Also assisting on the scene was Liverpool Truck 2, Clay Engine 21, and an engine from Belgium Cold Springs. NOVA ambulance stood by

 

Your News Now
CLAY, N.Y. -- Several fire crews were called to a late night house fire in Clay. The call came in just after 10 p.m. Saturday at 8824 Gaskin Road. Fire departments arrived to heavy smoke and fire. "They tried to make an interior attack but with the weight of the snow on the structure they felt it was a safety concern. So they went to an outside operation and about 30 minutes later we had the fire knocked down,” said Ed Wisnowski, Moyers Corners Fire Chief. No one was home at the time. The cause of the fire is under investigation

 

February 28th, 2010

 

Post Standard

 

Fire rips through home on Gaskin Road in Clay

 

A fire Saturday night ripped through a home on Gaskin Road off Route 57 in the town of Clay. The one-story home at 8824 Gaskin Road was heavily damaged, the roof partially collapsed and the windows were gone. No one was injured, said Stephen Zaferakis, Moyers Corners Fire Department incident commander. An owner, who was away from the home, arrived to find her house badly damaged. The home is owned by Carol MacDowell, according to Onondaga County records. The fire, which was called in at 9:58 p.m., was fought from the outside only.

 

 

 

March 2010
Clay Insider
Moyers Corners responds to its community
By Susan E. Lindsley

 

A piercing noise splits the night, waking you from a deep sleep. Heart racing, you stumble around your bedroom trying to remember what to do. You smell the smoke and know you have to get your family out. When you are all safely outside, you run to your neighbor’s house and call 911. Help arrives. Luckily, in the town of Clay there is the Moyers Corners Fire Department to respond to a scenario  such as this. What is special about this fire department and so many more nowadays, is that they are made up totally of volunteers. Besides working their full-time jobs, raising their families, and having hobbies, they are ready in a minute when we need them. The Moyers Corners Fire Department is entering its 62nd year of service. It was started in 1948 when resident Ken Brand organized volunteers after watching a fire burn down a barn. He got his volunteers, happened upon a man whose car had broken down and had been planning on selling a fire truck. He bought it and the fire department was established. They built the first fire station at the corners of routes 57 and 31 (otherwise known as Moyers Corners). Over the years, the department expanded and so did the fire stations

 

into four station houses. MCFD is a 100 percent volunteer department that responds to a coverage area

 

of approximately 23 square miles. The department protects a resident population of more than 55,000 and

 

a daytime population of more than 75,000. Community members are encourages to read more about the

 

department’s history on the Web site, mcfd.org. Station 1 is located at the intersection of routes 57 and 31, across from the original firehouse that was destroyed by a fire. Station 2 is located near the intersection of Morgan and Buckley roads. Station 3 is located on Henry Clay Boulevard near Taft Road. Station 4 is located across from Seneca Mall on Route 57 just south of Soule Road. There are 125 active members in the Moyers Corners Fire Department. Last year, they ran 1,382 calls. These calls can range from fires, car accidents, oil spills, fire alarm activations, seizures, personal injury and various types of EMS calls. They also help neighboring departments such as Belgium, Clay or Liverpool departments.

 

 

 

They are active in the community as well. The department does “candy checks” at Halloween, brings Santa around the neighborhoods at Christmas, goes to local elementary schools to teach about fire safety, and in 2010 would like to start a “Toys for Tots” campaign. Battalion Chief Stephen Zaferakis said he knows how dedicated his firefighters are. “The key to this is a  supportive family that helps make our fire department successful. Sometimes I have to leave dinner for a call. The whole department is a huge family and everyone knows each other. We are here for each other.” Another firefighter, John Kennedy, who works out of Station 4 and was voted Firefighter of the Year in 2009, echoes a similar sentiment. “Being in the department has made for a very rewarding life for me, helping the community’s residents in their time of need is a tremendous uplifting feeling. I guess treating each call as you would if you were going to your family’s home is a major ideal that I try to impress on our members.” Every firefighter has to complete the Firefighter 1 course. On top of that, there are weekly training courses on a variety of topics. On Wednesdays, there are standbys where firefighters are in the firehouse waiting to respond to calls. They use this opportunity for additional training. Michael Hoosock, who was voted as “Top Responder” out of Station 2 in 2009, knows the importance of training. “The training allows both new firefighters and ‘seasoned’ firefighters the opportunity to hone our skills and be better prepared to take on emergencies that may occur in the community. We need to constantly practice to remain proficient in this field.” Another way the department stays proficient is in their equipment. There is a brand new ladder truck at Station 1. There is also a bucket truck and two heavy rescue vehicles in the department besides the engine trucks. They have the

 

same exact engine truck in different stations. Every driver can drive them and all the firefighters are trained on them. There is no worrying about having to figure out where equipment is or who knows what. A program that the MCFD also has is the Bunk-In Program. There are two students per stationhouse who are Onondaga Community College students who are in the Fire Protection Science program. They have to maintain a 2.5

 

grade point average. It gives them practical experience in a station house while they are working on their studies. It is these kinds of programs along with the training, dedication, and determination of these men and women volunteers that make the MCVFD an integral part of our community

 

March 5th, 2010

 

Heavy extrication on Soule Road

 

www.mcfd.org

 

Friday March 5th, 2010. Moyers Corners was alerted to a motor vehicle collision on Soule Road and Burningtree Lane. Initial reports from an off duty Syracuse Police Officer indicated that two people were pinned in their vehicles. Onondaga County Sheriff's Deputies confirmed that report and stated heavy extrication would be required. Car 4 [Crispin] arrived first and assessed the scene and covered the operations officer assignment. Battalion 1 [Zaferakis] arrived and established the command. Rescue 4 [Lt. Watson] arrived on the scene and focused their efforts on the heavily damaged grey sedan. Car 2 [Race] was assigned to the safety officer position. Engine 22 [Capt. Izzo] stretched a line and provided scene safety for the grey sedan. Engine 11 [Lt. Eldred] stretched a line and provided scene safety for the maroon mini-van. As a precaution, a helicopter was started. Extrication of the victim in the grey sedan took approximately 45 minutes and was accomplished by a full roof removal and a "dash lift". The patient’s legs were then freed up for safe egress. Extrication of the victim in the maroon mini-van was completed by a full roof removal and driver's door removal. Total extrication time was 53 minutes. Also operating on the scene was a heavy rescue from Belgium Cold Springs and an Engine from the Clay Fire Department. A Medical Doctor from the mobile trauma unit was also on the scene to support the ems sector.

 

 

 

March 5th, 2010

 

Head-on crash reported on Soule Road in Clay

 

John Mariani

 

The Post Standard

 

Clay NY -- A morning collision on Soule Road in Clay sent the driver of each vehicle to Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse, fire and sheriff's officers said.  Rescuers from three fire departments used hydraulic equipment to free the drivers from their vehicles after the crash at 7:11 a.m. A Guthrie Air-1 helicopter airlifted Clark Morrison, 59, of Deer Trail, Oswego, to Upstate with leg injuries,said Sgt. John D'Eredita of the Onondaga County Sheriff's Office. The driver of the other car, Tara Smith, 33, of Chariot Lane, Clay, was taken by Nova ambulance to the same hospital with chest, back and leg injuries, D'Eredita said. D'Eredita said Morrison was driving a red 2005 Pontiac Montana south on Soule Road, when it drifted onto the southbound lane near Burningtree Lane and collided with Smith's gray 2009 Hyundai Sonata, which was northbound on Soule Road.

 

The impact pushed the Sonata into Burningtree Road, where it struck a 2004 Dodge Stratus that was waiting to turn onto Soule Road, D'Eredita said. That car was driven by Diane Brown, 47, of Shallow Creek Road, Clay. Neither Brown nor her passenger was injured, D'Eredita said; he did not identify the passenger.  Stephen Zaferakis, battalion chief of the Moyers Corners Fire Department, said emergency workers removed the roof of the Hyundai and spread its console using hydraulic equipment to free Smith. Morrison was ticketed for moving from a lane unsafely, D'Eredita said.  Soule Road was closed at the Interstate 481 on-ramp and at Pinegate Parkway North to give rescuers room to work. The road reopened about 9:20 a.m., D'Eredita said. Moyers Corners, Clay and Belgium Cold Springs rescuers were at the scene, as well as Nova ambulance, state police and Onondaga County Sheriff's deputies. Nineteen rescue vehicles, including two flatbed auto haulers, crowded Soule Road at one point.

 

Oswego County Today.com
Town of Clay, New York Onondaga County Sheriff Kevin E. Walsh reports that Sheriff’s Deputies are investigating a personal injury auto accident that occurred this morning on Soule Road. At approximately 7:11 am, Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the intersection of Soule Road and Burningtree Road to investigate a three car crash. Witnesses told deputies that a 2005 Pontiac Montana, operated by Clark Morrison, 59, of 16 Deer Trail in Oswego, was traveling south on Soule Road when he drifted into the northbound lane near the intersection of Burningtree Road. Morrison’s vehicle collided with a 2009 Hyundai, operated by Tara Smith, 33, of 4168 Chariot Lane in Liverpool, who was traveling north on Soule Road.

 

Both vehicles sustained extensive damage and the impact from the crash forced Smith’s vehicle to crash into a 2004 Dodge Stratus, operated by Diane Brown, 47, of 8388b Shallow Creek Road in Liverpool, who was stopped on Burningtree Road waiting to turn onto Soule Road. Morrison and Smith were trapped in their vehicles forcing rescue crews from the Moyers Corners Fire Department to extricate them from the wreckage. Smith was transported to University Hospital by ambulance and Morrison was airlifted to University Hospital by Guthrie Air-1, of Sayre Pennsylvania. Neither Brown or her passenger were injured from the crash.Traffic on Soule Road was shut down between the on ramp to Route 481 south and Pine Gate Parkway while rescue crews were on the scene. Deputies reopened Soule Road at 9:20am and report that Morrison was ticketed for moving from a lane unsafely.

 

March 9th, 2010
Fire destroys home, kills dog on Alban Court in Clay
The Post Standard
By John Mariani

 

Clay, NY -- A Clay resident suffered burns in an unsuccessful attempt to save his dog from the fire that destroyed his manufactured home early today, fire officials said. Moyers Corners, Clay and Liverpool firefighters responded shortly after 3:30 a.m. to the fire at 5906 Alban Court at the Casual Estates complex in Clay, according to Moyers Corners Fire Capt. Dan Izzo. It took firefighters about 40 minutes to knock down the fire. By that point, the home was completely gutted. A man and a woman were at home. Izzo said he did not know their names. The man suffered second-degree burns to his head, back and neck when he went back in to attempt to save his dog. He was taken by NOVA ambulance to a hospital for treatment. Sheriff's and county fire investigators were at the scene. The American Red Cross Central New York Chapter provided assistance to the two residents of the home. None of the windows or doors survived and almost all the siding was gone at one end, exposing the home's framing. The charred remains of a sofa and other living room furnishings laid heaped along one side. A child's riding and construction toys could be seen beneath the home where a skirt had once protected them.

 

 

 

March 29th, 2010
MVC on Route 57 at Provo Drive
www.mcfd.org

 

Moyers Corners Stations 1 and 4 were alerted to a reported Signal 80 on Route 57 at Provo Drive. Initial reports indicated that one vehicle had an unconscious male patient, a semi-conscious female passenger, and an infant. Battalion 1 Chief Steve Zaferakis arrived within a minute and assessed the scene. He then communicated that extrication would be needed for an unconscious male and the infant. Battalion 1, Car 3, and crew members from Rescue 4 [Lt. Watson] and Engine 41 [FF Zaferakis] then rapidly extricated the male and the infant. Engine 11 [Lt. Schweitzer) provided scene safety with a charged hand-line, and also assisted the rescue company with patient packaging. Car 2 [Race] ran the command assignment. Car 5 [Capt. Lyons] also assisted on the scene. NOVA ambulances transported all patients , along with the assistance of a few emt's from MCFD Rescue 4. The female passenger and driver of the second vehicle were also packaged by Battalion 1 crews. The infant, mother, and driver of the second vehicle are reported to be in good condition, while the male patient is still in critical condition. The quick response by Moyers Corners Battalion 1 units aided in this very difficult and challenging call

 

May 19th, 2010
DWI charges for man whose SUV crashed into restaurant
The Post Standard
By Douglass Dowty

 

Salina, NY -- Onondaga County sheriff's deputies have charged the driver of an SUV that smashed into the entrance of Pier 57 with driving while intoxicated, driving while intoxicated on drugs, and possession of marijuana. Police identified the driver as Clifton Reynolds, 35, of 8406 Gaskin Road. They also charged him with imprudent speed, driving left of the center line and aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the second degree.

 

Liverpool, NY -- A man was taken to Upstate University Hospital this afternoon following a crash on Oswego Road that ended when his flipped SUV slammed into the entrance of Pier 57 in Liverpool, Onondaga County sheriff’s deputies said. The man, whose identity was not immediately known by deputies, appeared to suffer a head injury and had to be extricated from his vehicle after the 2:30 p.m. crash, said Sheriff Kevin Walsh. His injuries did not appear to be life-threatening, Walsh said. The SUV rolled for about 100 yards after striking the rear of another car before coming to rest in the doorway of the popular restaurant, Walsh said.

 

Inside the restaurant, patrons and employees heard a loud noise, said cook Michael Burgess, who was in the kitchen. "I was in the back of the house when I heard a loud bang and glass shattering," Burgess said. "There's glass in the dining room, glass in the kitchen. It's a mess. Apparently, having a car in your doorway doesn't help, either." Here is what happened, according to Walsh: The man was driving the SUV northbound on Route 57 at a high rate of speed when he rear-ended a Toyota Corolla in front of the Super 8 motel. The SUV started rolling and continued for several dozen yards before striking a Volkswagen Golf parked in the Pier 57 parking lot. It rolled over the parked vehicle before slamming into the entrance of the restaurant, landing on its roof.

 

The occupants of the Corolla, a mother and her 5-year-old son, sustained minor injuries and declined treatment. No one was in the parked Volkswagen at the time. Northbound Oswego Road (Route 57) was closed following the crash. It reopened at about 4:30 p.m. Pier 57 will not be open for dinner. The investigation is continuing.

 

May 21st, 2010
Rescue 4 assists Belgium Cold Springs FD with extrication
www.mcfd.org

 

Belgium Cold Springs Fire Department was alerted to a head-on collision on River Road. BCSFD Chief Evans arrived on the scene and indicated that extrication would be required on both vehicles. He then started Moyers Corners Rescue 4 to the scene. Crews from MCFD Station 4 were already in quarters at the time of dispatch. Battalion 1 Chief Zaferakis, Rescue 4 [Lt. Watson], and Deputy Chief Crispin answered the special request. Upon arrival, Chief Zaferakis was assigned to the Safety Officer position while Chief Crispin handled the Operations Sector. Rescue 4 was directed to handle the extrication of the driver of the SUV, while crews from Belgium Cold Springs handled the sedan. Extrication became a challenge as the vehicles were located next to each other and against a guardrail along the riverbank. Rescue 4 performed a full roof removal while medic's from Mentor Ambulance established an IV on the driver. Belgium Cold Springs crews also performed a full roof removal of the sedan, as well as a "dash roll" to free the driver of the sedan. Total extrication time for both patients was 37 minutes. The driver of the sedan was transported via OSCD Air 1 to Upstate Hospital while the driver of the SUV was transported to Upstate via Mentor Ambulance. Both MCFD and BCSFD worked extremely well together under very tight conditions. A well coordinated effort allowed crews to safely and effectively free the driver's of both vehicles

 

June 18th , 2010
Structure fire on Bayberry Circle
www.mcfd.org

 

June 18th, 2010. 11:22 pm. The Moyers Corners Fire Department was alerted to a structure fire at the residence of 37 Bayberry Circle.  Initial reports from dispatch indicated multiple callers advising flames showing and people trapped on the second floor.  Car 4 [Chief Crispin] arrived minutes after dispatch and confirmed the initial report of fire showing and residents still trapped on the second floor.  Chief Crispin immediately began assisting deputies from the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Department with removing victims from the second floor via a borrowed ladder from a neighbor.  A minute later BC1 [Chief Zaferakis] and Engine 21 [Lt. Hoosock] arrived.  BC1 covered the operations sector while Engine 21 secured a water supply and took an attack line through the front door until losing their handline due to a downed power line on their engine. Car 3 [Chief Stevens] arrived and established command. Engine 41 [Lt. Beardsly] arrived a minute later securing it’s own water source, and multiple handlines were then pulled off their engine.  Engines 21 and 41 mounted an aggressive interior attack while Rescue 4 [Lt. Watson] assisted with initial fire suppression.  Engine 31 [Capt. Lyons] arrived and stretched a two and a half inch handline while Rescue 3 [Lt. Wisely]covered the RIT assignment. FF Steve Wisely was then assigned to the safety officer position. Ladder 1 [Lt. Schweitzer] laddered the building, secured utilities, provided scene lighting, and assisted with a secondary search of the residence. Attack crews were able to extinguish the fire on the first floor, and were just at the top of the stairs when they were pulled out due to rapidly deteriorating conditions on the second floor. After a brief exterior attack, crews went back in to attack the remaining fire on the second floor. The fire was extinguished within 30 minutes. Additional crews from Liverpool FD and North Syracuse FD helped with overhaul. Three deputies and four civilians were transported via NOVA ambulance to area hospitals

 

Cnycentral.com
Sheriff's deputies borrowed neighbors' ladders to reach four members of a family, trapped on the second floor of their burning home at 37 Bayberry Circle.  Residents called 911 about 11:22--Deputy Mike Doupe went up a ladder and rescued 16 year old Matthew Poon, who has second degree burns and smoke inhalation.  His mother Catherine Poon who was semi conscous and also suffering smoke inhalation, and was also rescued.  A neighbor brought a second ladder and two other family members, also suffering smoke inhalation, were also pulled from the home. Deputy Doupe had burns to the face--he and Deputy Tim Hahn also had smoke inhalation, and Deputy Bob Bell had a shoulder injury from moving the ladder.  Both family members and deputies were taken to University Hospital for treatment. Moyers Corners, Liverpool and other volunteer departments were called in, but damage to the home is significant. The Red Cross is helping residents, who also lost their family dog. Investigators say an electrical cord malfunction may have started the fire.  The home had no working smoke detectors.

 

June 20th, 2010
Family, neighbor recall fire rescue in Bayberry
The Post Standard
By Charley Hannagan

 

Clay, NY -- Lying in bed with a book Friday night Catherine Poon had read only five pages before her children pounded on her bedroom wall at 37 Bayberry Circle. “Mommy, Mommy, the house is on fire.” Poon, 51, jumped out of bed. She opened her bedroom door, then shut it quickly because of the heat and smoke in the hallway. Across the street at 36 Bayberry Circle, Lateef Haskins had just come home from a late softball game. He was thinking about taking a shower, but settled in to watch a little ESPN first. Faintly, he heard Matthew Poon, his neighbor, across the street. “He was yelling, ‘Help, fire!’” Haskins said.

 

In separate interviews Saturday, Poon and Haskins recalled the chaotic night. Haskins and Onondaga County Sheriff deputies rescued Poon, her son Matthew, 16, daughter Scarlet, 21, and niece Amy Chei, 20. Poon said she doesn’t know who grabbed her and helped her down the ladder to safety. “I’m grateful. They saved my whole family,” she said. “My neighbor was very brave.” “I would want somebody to do the same if my family was in that situation,” Haskins said. Throughout the day Saturday, cars slowed as they passed the fire-ravaged house with charred household goods in the front yard. Neighbors stopped neighbors on the street asking if anyone had set up a fund, or is collecting items for the family. Haskins, and his wife, Jessica, have offered their home as a drop-off spot for people wishing to make donations.

 

Bayberry Circle is a quiet street of suburban homes shaded by tall trees. That quiet was broken by chaos Friday night. Investigators are still trying to find the cause of the fire reported at 11:22 p.m. They believe it started from a faulty electrical cord on the home’s main floor. None of the smoke detectors was working at the time of the fire. Hearing Matthew Poon’s cries, Haskins called to his wife to dial 911. He sprinted across the street dialing the number on his cell phone, too. Haskins, a father of three, yelled into the night for someone to get a ladder. Nobody came. He grabbed a hose to wet down the house. That didn’t help. “Matt was saying it was hot and ‘help,’” Haskins said. “I didn’t want to leave him. You could see flames coming from the roof.” The 34-year-old iron worker sprinted back to his house and grabbed a ladder, setting it up against the burning building.

 

As he was setting up the ladder, when Onondaga County Sheriff’s deputies arrived. Deputy Mike Doupe remembers seeing a man in a baseball shirt with the number 10 on it spraying the house with the hose. The ladder was in place and Matthew Poon was in the window. “The boy just couldn’t see because of the smoke,” Doupe said. Doupe ran up the ladder and guided Matthew Poon’s feet onto the ladder, he said. The fire caused the window to explode and flames blew through the ladder, singeing both Doupe and the boy and causing Matthew Poon to fall. Haskins said he broke Matthew’s fall and then moved the ladder over to rescue the next person. While Deputies Doupe and Tim Hahn used the ladder to rescue Catherine Poon, Haskins ran across the street to 38 Bayberry Circle to borrow Suzanne Conley’s ladder to rescue the other two women. Conley said she could see a small fire in the home’s living room. By the time Haskins had pulled her ladder out of the garage and put it up against the right side of the house, it was engulfed with flames, she said. “It went whoosh!” Conley said.

 

Haskins used the second ladder to rescue Scarlet Poon and Chei. One of the women fell from the ladder, Doupe said. Scarlet Poon was the last to escape the building and a deputy dragged her across the lawn away from raging fire, Haskins said. “He was fearless. I don’t think Lateef thought about himself at all,” Conley said of her neighbor, as she looked across at the blackened shell of 37 Bayberry Circle. Doupe agreed with Conley’s assessment of Haskins. “What that guy did was incredible,” Doupe said. “My opinion of him and Moyers Corners (Fire Department) — they’re incredible.” Deputies get paid to do what they do, Doupe said. Haskins and the volunteers at the fire department don’t. “They are amazing,” he said. After the rescues, Doupe said he was getting oxygen at an ambulance and he saw Haskins come up to check on him. They made eye contact and Haskins flashed a thumbs up at Doupe. Doupe first learned Haskins’ name from a reporter on Saturday night.

 

Scarlet Poon and Chei suffered from smoke inhalation. Scarlet also had a broken vertebra, her mother said. Matthew Poon suffered second-degree burns on his upper body and smoke inhalation. His mother suffered from smoke inhalation. Doupe suffered severe smoke inhalation and first-degree burns to his face. Hahn also suffered from smoke inhalation, and Deputy Bob Bell suffered a dislocated shoulder and a broken bone while bringing the ladder to the house. Everyone was taken to Upstate University Hospital. The Poons and Chei were treated and released Saturday. The family’s 10-month-old puppy, Sebastin, died in the fire. A friend buried it in the backyard Saturday morning. Saturday morning, Catherine Poon returned to her damaged house. A hospital bracelet was on her arm, and her hands were still blackened from the fire when she got out of the van driven by her friend Caryn Kogos-Irwin.

 

Originally from Hong Kong, Poon said she has been in the United States for 21 years, living the past 11 on Bayberry Circle. She works at Wegmans, as does her daughter and son. She’s been very unlucky recently, Poon said. Her husband, Lap Tak Poon, died in 2008, and now the fire. For now, the family is staying in an extended-stay hotel until insurance adjusters can survey the damage, Kogos-Irwin said.

 

July 8th, 2010
Reported fire at Taft Road Wegmans
www.mcfd.org

 

Wednesday July 7th, 1620 hours. Moyers Corners Fire Department was alerted to a reported fire at the Wegmans on Taft Road. Initial reports indicated there was a fire on the roof. Crews found a portable construction trailer filled with roofing materials on fire along the B/C side of the roof. There was a minor extension to a nearby HVAC unit. The fire was initially extinguished by Truck 2's master stream. Crews from Station 3 then finished the extinguishment with a handline. It took approximately ten minutes to extinguish the fire. Multiple companies from Moyers Corners worked in extreme outside temperatures (95 degrees) while crews from North Syracuse, Liverpool, and Mattydale assisted on the scene.

 

Moyers Corners Units working on the scene:

 

 Engines 31, 32, 21, 41, Rescues 3 and 4, Truck 2, Ladder 1, Car 1, Car 2, BC 1, BC 2

 

Your News Now

 

LIVERPOOL, N.Y. -- Somewhere between dairy and paper products, smoke started coming from the roof above the beer case at the West Taft Road Wegmans about 4:30 p.m. Wednesday. "When the apparatus arrived, they went to the roof. And they determined it was a trailer that was burning that appeared to be full of construction material," said Moyers Corners Fire Chief Edward Wisnowski.Wegmans employees say work has been going on on the roof over the past several days. In the late afternoon heat, firefighters also had their work cut out for them when they got up there.

 

"Being in the direct sunlight in this gear, it probably adds about 200 to 300 degrees for each degree it's above 80. So you actually feel like you're cooking inside your gear you're wearing. And then with the air pack on you, carrying that heavy weight," Wisnowski said.Firefighters were using breathing masks because of thick smoke in the store. Between the smoke and the heat, the chief says he was making sure to rotate crews in and out quickly and give them the ample water and ice that happened to be on hand."It's not the way we like to get the water and ice, but we have to work in these emergency situations as best as possible," said Wegmans Community Relations Director Evelyn Carter.

 

Now that the fire is out, Wegmans staff says they have a lot more work to do to get the store ready to reopen. "Right now, we have employees who are mopping to try to get the store back up to condition," Carter said. Employees were evacuated during the fire and no one was hurt. Because of water and smoke damage, some of the store's inventory will have to be replaced. How much will be up to health inspectors. "We will not be able to reopen until we hear from the New York State Health Department. They will have to do an inspection. After that, we will open the store as soon as possible," Carter said.Carter says the store could reopen Thursday. Investigators are still looking into what caused the fire.

 

The Post Standard
Taft Road Wegmans reopens this morning after fire
Charles McChesney

 

You'll be able to get your morning coffee and bagels at the Wegmans supermarket on Taft Road in Salina. The store reopened at 7 this morning after a fire on the roof Wednesday forced it to close. Earlier we reported: Salina, NY -- Firefighters struggled in Wednesday’s blazing heat to douse a fire on the roof of Wegmans supermarket on Taft Road in the Salina. No one was hurt, but the 24-hour store has been shut down due to smoke and water damage, said a company spokesperson. Evelyn Carter said workers would try to clean and ready the store overnight. If a state health inspector could be brought in first thing Thursday, she said the plan was to reopen the store later in the morning. Firefighters from Moyers Corners, North Syracuse, Mattydale and Liverpool responded to the fire. Moyers Corners Fire Chief Edward Wisnowski said the fire was in a trailer containing construction material that was on the roof, near the rear corner of the store. Firefighters in full gear could be seen using shovels and pikes to clear away damaged parts of the roof. Firefighters worked in shifts as temperatures reached 93 degrees, with some soaking themselves beneath the nozzle of a fire hose. Two ambulances arrived at the scene and treated two firefighters who suffered from the heat, but no one was taken to the hospital, Wisnowski said.

 

July 11th, 2010
Reported fire at Van Santis trucking
www.mcfd.org

 

July 8th, 2010. 2pm.   MCFD daytime crews were alerted to a reported fire at Van Santis Trucking on Morgan Place in the Station 2 response area. Initial reports indicated that there was a fire on the roof. Engine 21 [Lt. Hoosock] and Battalion 1 Chief Zaferakis called out a minute after dispatch. Upon arrival, Engine 21 brought in the closest hydrant and laid out to the B (western) side of the building. Battalion 1 gave the report of smoke showing from a bay door on the A/B corner of the building. Engine 21 stretched an inch and three quarter handline and prepared for an aggressive interior attack. Engine 31 [FF Jennings] was second due and pumped Engine 21's hydrant. The crew from 31 backed up Engine 21 with a two inch handline. Engine 21 then radioed to command that the fire was contained to the end of the structure with a sprinkler system activation above the fire. Battalion 2 Chief Dembowski handled the interior sector. Engine 21 and 31 held the fire to the B/C corner of the building with minor extension to the wood trusses and overstacked wooden pallets along the B side of the building. Liverpool Car 1 assisted Battalion 1 at the command post. MCFD Truck 2 [Capt.Driscoll] helped interior crews with overhaul. Engine 41 [Capt. Zeppetello] stretched a handline to the A/D side of the building to check for extension. Liverpool Engine 3 stretched a two and a half inch line to back up interior crews. Liverpool Truck 2 took the C side of the structure, made a hole at the roof line,and extinguished fire with their master stream after crews took care of the fire inside. Moyers Corners Rescue 4 [FF Goodson] handled the RIT assignment. Mattydale Rescue 1 assisted with overhaul. MCFD Ladder 1 replaced Liverpool Truck 2 on side C and continued with overhaul. The sprinkler system helped keep the fire from spreading while an aggressive interior attack ensured the fire did not spread throughout the structure. A quick response and knock-down kept this fire at bay, especially considering the heavy fire load of wooden pallets and empty plastic storage throughout the structure

 

 

 

 

 

July 21st, 2010
Moyers Corners fire chief honored for saving 1-month-old baby’s life after crash in Clay
The Post Standard
By Catie O’Toole
Clay, NY - Steve Zaferakis was at home on Dampier Circle late at night several months ago putting out the garbage when his pager went off. There was a crash about a quarter mile away on Route 57 in Clay. Arriving at the scene just north of Casual Estates mobile home park, the Moyers Corners Battalion 1 chief heard a woman screaming hysterically, “My baby, my baby.” He saw an infant seat flipped over with the driver, Jorge Palmero, the baby’s father, laying partially on top of it. The 1-month-old baby hung from the straps. “At that point I stopped hearing the baby’s cries,” he said. “I heard her stop breathing.” Deputy Chief E.J. Stevens helped move Palmero off the infant car seat. Zaferakis stabilized the baby’s neck. “Her eyes were rolling back into her head. She didn’t have the right color,” he said. “I gently rubbed her chest and I did a quick swipe of her mouth. I got into the baby’s mouth and cleared some saliva. Then she took what I thought was her first breath.” After the baby, Analise Palmero, was whisked away in an ambulance, Zaferakis hoped she was going to be OK. It wasn’t until last week, that he saw for himself that the baby was perfectly fine.

 

Clay town officials recently honored Zaferakis for his quick actions on March 28 that may have saved baby Analise’s life that night. “I don’t feel like a hero,” said Zaferakis, 35. “I was doing what I was trained to do. Everyone was directing me to the infant helped. She was the priority. We were doing everything we could to get to her and save her.” Zaferakis has been a Moyers Corners volunteer firefighter since 1994. He’s also a staff engineer at C&S Engineers’ Life Safety Division. He and his wife, Karen, have a 2-year-old daughter, Alexia, and another daughter due Oct. 10. For months, he had wondered how baby Analise was doing. He found out by accident last week. Zaferakis responded to a stove fire July 14 at a house on Buttonwood Trail in Clay’s Pine Gate South neighborhood. To his surprise, the baby’s mother, Jamie Finnegan, was there with her daughter.

 

“I was very, very excited to see them, and to see that baby was doing great,” Zaferakis said, adding that he got to hold Analise. “She is absolutely adorable — big blue eyes.” Finnegan told Zaferakis that after Analise was taken to the hospital, she was released hours later, without even a scratch on her. Finnegan, 21, was treated at an area hospital for a concussion. But the driver, Palmero, 27, remains in a coma at Upstate University Hospital, Finnegan said. He’s suffered head trauma. After the accident, Onondaga County sheriff’s deputies charged Palmero with driving while intoxicated.

 

July 22nd, 2010
New paramedics at MCFD
www.mcfd.org

 

Anyone who has ever taken a NYS emergency medical technician (EMT) class knows that it is no easy task to obtain an EMS certification in this state. It is an even harder task to obtain certification as a NYS Paramedic, however three Moyers Corners firefighters have recently risen to that level. Firefighters Mike Goodwin (station 3), Bryan Easton (station 2), and James O'Connor (station 3) all successfully passed the New York State Paramedic exam in June 2010. These firefighters joined the Faxton St. Luke's paramedic class in Utica in September 2009 and between then and their test in June of this year went through many grueling hours of training and preparation. In addition to being active members of Moyers Corners, working full time jobs, and leading normal lives they also spent over 350 hours in classroom sessions, 220 hours in hospital clinical time, and 200 hours completing ride outs on ambulances. Taking into consideration that there are 8760 hours in a year, that means the above individuals spent almost 10% of the past year in training.

 

Thanks to their dedication they now join the following Moyers Corners members as advanced medical providers: Kevin Delong (Paramedic), Pat Herrick (Paramedic), Lt. Mike Hoosock (Paramedic), Jeff Paquette (Critical Care), and Justin Rowland (Intermediate). In addition to our newest advanced EMS providers Jeff Kissock (Station 2) also just passed his original certification as a NYS emergency medical technician.

 

Upon last estimation there were only just under 6,000 paramedics in all of New York State, and we are very fortunate to have six in our own department. Congratulations to our newest paramedics, and thank you to all of our EMS providers for keeping up your training and doing the work you do day in and day out!

 

 

 

August 15th, 2010

 

MCFD explorers take first place in two tournaments

 

www.mcfd.org
On Sunday August 8th, 2010,  the Moyers Corners Fire Departments Explorer Post 209 attended the 20th Annual Charlie Marsfelder Firematic Tournament hosted by the Solvay Fire Department at the New York State Fairgrounds. Six teams participated in this years tournament including Bridgeport, Minoa, Moyers Corners, Solvay, Tonawanda and Warners. This was Moyers Corners first trip to the games and they kids were very excited to see how they ranked with the other departments in the following areas: Gear Race, Wye Race, Hose Relay, Cart Race, Bucket Bergade and Push Ball. The day begain with the Gear Race. The team from Moyers Corners (Brian Alsever, Veronica Zampini, and Justin Hildreth) dominated the event with a winning time 5 seconds better then the next closest team. Following the Gear Race, the Hose Relay team of Brandon Dardis, Jeremey Corsaro, Veronica Zampini, and Nick Bittle had a very good run going for them until they had an issue with a cross threaded coupling. The team finished 5th in the event. MCFD team members Justin Hildreth, Brandon Dardis, Veronica Zampini, Alton Apple and Nick Bittel then participated in the Wye Race. Once again, the team put forth a great effort but were unable to finish in the top three. The teams then moved on to an event that they had never participated in before. The Fire Cart Race consisted of team members Alton Apple, Jeremy Corsaro, Josh Hildreth, Brian Alsever, Nick Bittel. The novices gave it everything they had but did not finish in the top three. Showing outstanding perserverence, MCFD Explorer Post 209 showed their true colors in the Bucket Brigade. Brian Alsever, Nick Bittle, Justin Hildretrh, Josh Hildreth, Jeremy Corsaro, Alton Apple, Brandon Dardis and Veronica Zampini were able to win the event by a narrow margin on .3 seconds. To end the competition, two teams from Moyers Corners participated in Pushball. Both teams were eliminated in the first round. Team 1 (Josh Hildreth, Alton Apple Brandon Dardis and Veronica Zampini) and Team 2 (Jeremy Corsaro, Justin Hildreth, Brian Alsever, Nick Bittel)

 

At the conclusion of the day's events,  Moyers Corners and Bridgeport were tied for first place standings. After a short discussion it was decided that a Gear Race between the Captains of the two teams would decide the winner of the overall trophy. Brian Alsever, the Explorer Post President and Elected Team Captain was able to pull off the one on one race to capture the overall first place trophy for Moyers Corners! The Moyers Corners Fire Department is proud of Explorer Post 209. Your hard work, training, and dedication have paid off. The team pulled together and stayed positive, in the tradition of MCFD. Keep up the good work boys and girls.

 

A WEEK LATER...

 

Moyers Corners Explorer Post 209 participated in the 2010 Onondaga County Convention hosted by the Solvay Fire Department. Post 209 was competing against Bridgeport, Minoa, Mattydale, Solvay, Warners and Port Pleasant from the Rochester area. Moyers Corners had another strong showing a week after takeing first place at the Explorer Games. MCFD took home two first place trophies (Equipment and Cart Race), two second place trophies ( Wye and Bucket Burgade), and one fourth place trophy ( 7 person relay). MCFD also brought home the overall points trophy for the game. Moyers Corners Explorer Post 209 would like to thank the host Deapartment Solvay and the Onondaga County Firemans Association for putting on a great event and look foward to returning next year

 

August 17th, 2010

 

Verizon truck rollover

 

www.mcfd.org
August 17th, 2010. 4:30pm.Moyers Corners FD was alerted to a motor vehicle collision on Route 57 in front of the Kwik Fill in the Battalion 2 response area. Initial reports indicated that a Verizon truck had rolled over on it's side with the driver still trapped in the vehicle. Car 5 [Capt. Zeppetello] called out first, followed by Battalion 1 [Zaferakis]. Car 5 reported to incoming units that a verizon boom truck was on it's side resting on a utility pole. He established command. Car 1 [Wisnowski] arrived next and the command was transferred. Battalion 1 handled the operations sector. Engine 22 [Capt. Driscoll] provided scene safety with a charged handline, assisted with patient care, and supplemented Rescue 4. Rescue 4 [FF Goodson] stabilized the truck with their Z-Mags and prepared for the extrication. After the vehicle and patient were stabilized, crew members from Engine 22 threw a roof ladder so the Rescue Company could fully remove the roof. Rescue 3 [Lt. Daloia] prepared to assist Rescue 4. Engine 11 was also on the scene to for manpower support. The driver of the vehicle had minor injuries and was extricated in 15 minutes

 

 

 

August 17th, 2010

 

Accident on Route 57 in Clay causes delays during evening commute

 

Catie O’Toole

 

The Post Standard 
Clay, NY - Onondaga County sheriff's deputies closed a portion of Route 57 in Clay during the evening commute home today because of an accident involving a Verizon utility truck and a car.  The road closed shortly after the crash, which was reported about 4:30 p.m. Traffic was detoured for more than two hours. The road reopened around 7 p.m.  Here is what happened, according to police and fire officials at the scene: Bianca Valentino, 18, of Liverpool, was driving a 2003 Subaru south on Route 57. Witnesses told deputies that Valentino's car was in the median of the road "for a while" as she waited to turn left into the Kwik Fill Red Food Mart, Sheriff's Sgt. Carl Kruger said. Valentino then suddenly turned left to enter the gas station parking lot and collided with a northbound 1996 Ford utility truck owned by Verizon, Kruger said. The front of Valentino's car hit the front fender and driver's side door of the Verizon truck, driven by Daniel Leddy, 39, of Bethpage, Kruger said.

 

From the marks on the road, deputies said they believe Leddy swerved to avoid a crash, but Valentino was already too far into her turn. The Verizon truck, which had a bucket on the top of the vehicle, was top heavy, Kruger said. The Verizon truck rolled onto its driver's side and came to rest next to the utility pole, Kruger said. National Grid arrived at the scene, but the utility pole was not damaged, he said. New Verizon FiOS boxes and cable equipment were strewn all over the road, and hydraulic fluids spilled onto the road after the crash. Verizon sent crews to the scene to retrieve the equipment, Kruger said. Moyers Corners volunteer firefighters worked around the spill and helped Leddy, who was trapped inside the Verizon truck, Moyers Corners Battalion 1 Fire Chief Steve Zaferakis said. Firefighters extricated Leddy, who was wearing a seat belt and trapped inside, from the Verizon truck, Zaferakis said. Leddy suffered a broken nose and facial cuts, Kruger said. He also complained of head, neck and back pain, deputies said. Valentino complained of neck and head pain, deputies said. NOVA Ambulance took both Leddy and Valentino to Upstate University Hospital for non-life threatening injuries.

 

August 23rd, 2010
Moyers Corners Fire Department honors Clay man who helped save neighbors from burning home

 

The Post Standard

 

Catie O’Toole

 

Clay, NY - The Moyers Corners Fire Department last week honored a Clay resident who helped rescue neighbors from their burning home in June. Moyers Corners volunteer firefighters recognized Lateef Haskins "for his courageous and selfless actions the night of June 18" at their monthly business meeting Thursday, Battalion 1 Fire Chief Steve Zaferakis said. Haskins was at home when he heard his neighbor, Michael Poon, calling for help around 11:22 p.m. June 18. Poon and his family were on the second floor of their home at 37 Bayberry Circle when a faulty electrical cord is believed to have started a fire on the main floor. Haskins called 911 and ran across the street. At first he tried to douse the flames with a hose. When that didn't work, he ran back across the street to his house to get a ladder to rescue the family from the burning building.

 

Moyers Corners firefighters said initial reports indicated four people were trapped on the second floor of the home, with the first floor engulfed in flames. As Haskins set the ladder up against the burning house, Onondaga County Sheriff's Deputies Mike Doupe, Tim Hahn, Tim Kelly and Bob Bell arrived. As the deputies rescued two people from the building, Haskins got a ladder from another neighbor's house to rescue more family members.As Haskins and the deputies were rescuing the Poon family, Moyers Corners firefighters were pulling up to the scene.

 

On Thursday, the firefighters invited Haskins and his family to Moyers Corners Station 2 where they presented him with a plaque and publicly thanked him for what he did that night. "We really wanted to recognize Mr. Haskins as he certainly is a shining example of a great neighbor," Zaferakis said in an e-mail. "Because of Mr. Haskins, four residents of the Town of Clay are alive today." he added. After a brief ceremony, members of the Moyers Corners Fire Department and the Haskins family toured the fire house and had a cookout. Moyers Corners Fire Chief Edward Wisnowski read the following letter at the event to thank Haskins:

 

"On June 18th, 2010, the Moyers Corners Fire Department was alerted to a reported fire at 37 Bayberry Circle. Initial reports indicated that at least 4 people were trapped inside with active fire on the first floor. Deputy Chief Crispin called out first, followed by Battalion Chief Zaferakis. While en route, Fire Control alerted units that Sheriff's Deputies were on the scene attempting to make rescues of the trapped residents on the second floor. They also confirmed there was heavy fire. Little did we know that a very alert neighbor had already initiated a rescue.

Mr. Lateef Haskins was across the street in his home watching ESPN when he heard his neighbor yelling "HELP, FIRE!" Mr. Haskins called to his wife to call 911, then sprinted across the street while dialing 911 himself. He first grabbed a nearby garden hose to wet down the house. Because of the bulk of the fire, the garden hose was ineffective. Matthew Poon was in the second floor window screaming for help as the heat got more intense. Mr. Haskins then sprinted back to his house to grab his ladder. He was setting up that ladder when Deputies arrived.

After helping Deputy's rescue Matthew, they moved the ladder to the next window to rescue the remaining family members. Haskins then ran to 38 Bayberry Circle to borrow their ladder so they could rescue the other two family members. By the time Deputy Chief Crispin arrived, Scarlet Poon was being rescued. Chief Crispin then assisted the Deputies and Mr. Haskins with the final rescue.

 

Because of his alertness, courage, and selflessness, four of our neighbors and fellow Town of Clay citizens are alive today. A greater tragedy was averted that evening as a direct result of your actions. The membership of the Moyers Corners Fire Department would like to personally thank Mr. Haskins for being an outstanding citizen of our great town. We are proud to have a neighbor like you living in our fire district."

 

September 11th, 2010
MCFD R3 responds to MCI on Onondaga Lake Parkway
www.mcfd.org
September 11th, 2010. 0230 hours. Moyers Corners Rescue 3 was activated for a bus vs railroad bridge roll over on the Onondaga Lake Parkway. Reports from Onondaga County Sheriff's Department units on the scene indicated two DOA and up to sixty victims. MCFD Car 2 (DC Race), Car 4 (DC Crispin) and Rescue 3 (Capt Lyons) arrived to find a double decker tour bus on its side wedged up under the bridge. A level 3 MCI was declared. Two more heavy rescues were requested (Mattydale FD and Syracuse FD) and 15 ambulances. DC Race assisted with command, DC Crispin and Capt Lyons assisted Rescue 3's crew (Driver S. Wisely, Lt M. Goldberg, FF R. Jennings, FF M. Wick, FF/Paramedic P. Herrick) who went to work shoring the bus with their Junk Yard Dog rescue struts and cribbing. Once the bus was secured FF/Paramedic Herrick went to work triaging vicitms that were in a void space under the bus.  Capt Lyons entered the bus with Liverpool Lt James Maddison (EMT-B) to assess the situation inside the bus.  The rest of Rescue 3's crew assisted with moving victims and supporting the incident.

 

Captain Lyons encountered at least one obvious DOA and 10 walking wounded with various injuries inside the bus. Twenty-five victims were removed and sent to treatment within one hour.  A total of twenty-five victims were transported to area hospitals MCFD Rescue 3 was then released from the scene.  At approximately 0700 hrs Rescue 3 was requested back to the scene to assist with the removal of the bus from the bridge. All units were back in service by 11:00 hrs. All responding members of MCFD went above and beyond the call of duty on this tragic day

 

October 20th, 2010
The Review
Moyers Corners FD visits MRE

 

In celebration of Fire Safety Month in October, Morgan Road Elementary’s kindergarteners hosted visitors from the Moyers Corners Fire Department. Moyers Corners Fire Department came to MRE and taugh the kindergarteners all about fire safety and the job of a firefighter. The firefighters introduced the children to the equipment that they wear and use during a fire. The kids watched a demonstration of firefighters putting on their gear as they explained the uses of each piece. This was followed by a a trip outside to learn all about the parts of a fire engine. “We are so appreciative of the service the Moyers Corners Fire Department provides,” said MRE kindergarten teach Luanne Burlingame. “this was an authentic hands-on learning experience for our students.”

 

October 22nd, 2010
One taken to hospital following minor fire at Clay apartment complex
The Post Standard
Robert A. Baker

 

Clay, NY -- A woman was taken to a local hospital this morning after a smokey fire in a laundry room at a Clay apartment complex, firefighters said. The minor fire was contained to a dryer in the laundry room, but the fire filled the first floor with smoke, Deputy Moyers Corners Fire Chief Stephen Race said. One tenant suffered minor smoke inhalation and was taken to the hospital as a precaution, Race said. Firefighters were called about 10 a.m. to the Norstar Apartments, 4804 Norstar Blvd., which is off of Henry Clay Boulevard. The apartment building was evacuated but residents were allowed to return.

 

November 10th, 2010
MCFD Engine 21 provides mutual aid to Lakeside Fire
www.mcfd.org

 

The Liverpool Fire Department was activated for a residential fire at 3894 Longbranch Road, in the Town of Salina.  Moyers Corners station 2 was activated upon initial dispatch for an engine company and Engine-21 [Lt. Hoosock] marked out within three minutes.  While en route it was advised that Onondaga County Sheriff's were on scene and confirming a working fire at 340 Longbranch Road, in the Town of Geddes.  Moyers Corners Battalion 2 [Chief Dembowski] arrived and advised units of "heavy smoke showing" and then took the position of scene safety.  Moyers Corners Engine-21 and Liverpool Engine-1 then arrived simultaneously and quickly knocked down an active kitchen fire that was extending into the living room.  The house was searched for victims but none of the residents were home at the time of the fire. However, two cats and one dog were in the residence during the fire and died as a result.  All Moyers Corners units were back in service by 1155 hours

 

December 18th, 2010
Santa visits on a fire truck
9wsyr.com

 

LIVERPOOL, NY (WSYR-TV) - Santa paid a visit to children in Liverpool Saturday and left his sleigh at home. 
Instead, he hitched a ride on a fire truck, which drove him around to hand out thousands of candy canes. 
It drew children out on to the streets, who got a heads-up that St. Nick was on his way. "The kids just flip out, when they hear the siren coming they get excited and we try and spend as much time as we can with the kids," said Steve Zaferakis of the Moyers Corners Fire Department. Every year, the Moyers Corners Fire Department helps out Santa to make sure he has a ride to meet with children

 

December 19th, 2010
Signal 98- Clay Fire District
www.mcfd.org
At 0506hrs 12/19/10, E22 and TK2 were activated for the possible residential fire at 4298 Old Meadow Rd mutual aid to the Clay Fire Department.  Clay Chiefs arrived reporting heavy smoke in the house. E22 (Lt. Zevotek) arrived first due engine, established a water supply, made an interior attack on a minor fire on the basement level and performed a primary search.  TK2 (DC Race) arrived and performed ventilation and assisted with the secondary search. The fire was under control within 15 minutes and MCFD crews cleared the scene in under and hour

 

December 21st, 2010
Structure fire on Sugar Pine Circle
www.mcfd.org
Tuesday December 21, 1029 hours. The annual Moyers Corners FD daytime Christmas party was interrupted Tuesday morning with a reported structure fire in the Station 4 response area. The initial call came in as a fire alarm activation but was quickly upgraded to a structure fire as the resident had a smoke condition in the house. The Town of Clay highway department advised fire control that there was a working structure at that address. Battalion Two Chief Dembowski arrived first with heavy fire from the rear of the structure. Command was passed to Deputy Chief Stevens. Battalion Chief Dembowski assumed the interior sector. Engine 41 [Capt. Zeppetello] arrived and brought in a hydrant. They stretched a handline through the garage and prepared for the interior attack. Truck 2 [Capt. Driscoll] set up on the front of structure, moved the tower into position above the fire, and started vertical ventilation. Engine 31 [FF Jennings] backed up Engine 41's crew and assisted with the attack. Crews encountered heavy fire in the family room. Rescue 3 [Lt. Goldberg] conducted a primary and secondary search of the entire structure. Rescue 4 [Lt. Watson] assisted with the search and worked on overhaul on the second floor. Battalion 1 Chief Zaferakis arrived and was assigned Division II, while Battalion Chief Dembowski assumed Division I. Engine 11 stood fast on Side A and eventually was assigned to overhaul. Engine 21 and Squad 2 also assisted on the scene. An engine crew from Baldwinsville FD assisted with overhaul on Division II, while the rescue company from Mattydale FD assisted on Division I. Clay Truck 3 was the RIT. EM302 [C.Fritz] was the incident safety officer. The fire was knocked down within 30 minutes while crews worked for another hour overhauling and salvaging. Clay Car 1 assisted in the command post, while Clay Car 2 assisted with Division 1. Numerous pets were lost in the fire, however, a crew from Truck 2 was able to rescue a dog with the help of a Onondaga Sheriff's Department Deputy.

 

Cnycentral.com
TOWN OF CLAY -- A Clay family is recovering after their home was heavily damaged by fire. Firefighters responded to a home on Sugar Pine Circle for a report of a house fire. Firefighters say two people were home at the time - they were able to get out safely with the family pets. The Moyers Corners Fire Department says they initially had trouble fighting the fire because of the recent heavy snowfall and severity of the blaze. "We did have snow and weather conditions. We had to dig out the fire hydrant to get the water going. But with heavy fire conditions inside, there was zero visibility from the front door to the second floor," said Deputy Fire Chief Edward Stevens. There is no word yet on the cause of the fire, but investigators say they believe it started somewhere in the back portion of the home. The home’s family is being helped out by the local Red Cross.

 

December 21st, 2010
Two people escape house fire in Town of clay
Robert A. Baker
The Post Standard
Clay, NY -- A fire this morning heavily damaged a house in the town of Clay, but the two people inside at the time got out safely with some pets, a fire official said. Firefighters were called to the single-family home at 8431 Sugar Pine Circle in Clay about 10:20 a.m. The fire started in the family room at the back of the home, an area that was heavily involved in fire when firefighters arrived, Moyers Corners Fire Department Deputy Chief Edward Stevens said. Stevens did not have the name of the family who owned the home. The Red Cross will be assisting them in finding lodging, he said. There was a lot of smoke during the fire, dropping visibility to zero, Stevens said. Firefighters also had to dig snow out from around hydrants, he said. The house was decorated for the upcoming holidays. At each window was a spray of evergreen branches with a red ribbon bow and a garland of evergreens was draped on the front porch. Stevens said the fire department was preparing for a Christmas party this morning. When the alarm came in, there were fire department members at the fire station, which hastened the response to the alarm, Stevens said.

 

December 21st, 2010
Firefighters battle Clay fire
9wsyr.com
Town of Clay (WSYR-TV) - Firefighters were on the scene of a fire at Sugar Pine Circle in the Town of Clay. 
Although the house suffered extensive damage, no one was injured and firefighters say it took approximately an hour to put out the fire. A mother and son were in the house at the time of the fire, which firefighters believe started in the family room. The Moyers Corners Fire Department was able to mobilize quickly because many of them were already attending a gathering at the fire house. Also on the scene were the Baldwinsville, Clay, and Mattydale Fire Departments.

 

 

 

2011
Chief Ed Wisnowski
1st Deputy Chief: John Perkins
2nd Deputy Chief: EJ Stevens
3rd Deputy Chief: Frank Crispin
 Battalion 1 Chief: Steve Zaferakis
Battalion 2 Chief Mike G. Brown

 

Station 1 Captain Pete Klem 
Station 2 Captain Robin Zevotek
Station 3 Captain Dennis Lyons
Station 4 Captain Jered Zeppetello

 

Station 1 Lieutenants: Steve Schweitzer, Nick Eldred
Station 2 Lieutenants: Mike Hoosock, Bob Driscoll
Station 3 Lieutenants: Mitch Goldberg, Dominick Daloia, Joe Montague
Station 4 Lieutenants: Derek Watson, Ed Goodson

 

Executive Board:
President Ken Filow
Vice President Bud Neuman
Treasurer Colin Bailey, Assistant Treasurer Chris Kendall
Secretary Steve Leeper,  Assistant Treasurer Bryan Mather
Fire Police:  Captain Gary Johnson, Lieutenants Steve Mauser, Randy Frost

 

Bunk Ins: Andrew Johnson, Joey Henderson, Billy McSweeney, Phillip Clark, Derek Natoli, Carmen Ambrose, Troy Barrett, Matt Buttonschon, Tom Young, Chad Schaefer, Ryan Granger

 

 

 

2011 Sutphen

 

 

 

January 9th, 2011

 

Reported fire on Oriole Path

 

www.mcfd.org

 

Shortly before 4am, the volunteers of Moyers Corners were alarted to a reported house fire on Oriole Path in the Station 2 response area. Initial reports from neighbors indicated heavy fire from the rear of the structure. Car 4 [Crispin] arrived first with heavy fire and struck a Signal 99. He established the incident command. Battalion 1 [S. Zaferakis] arrived next and was assigned to the interior sector. Engine 21 [Lt. Zevotek] was first due and set up for a split lay to the closest hydrant. The crew then stretched an inch and three quarter handline and made an aggressive interior attack through the front door. Battalion 2 [M.G. Brown] arrived and was assigned to the safety officer position. Command advised crews of a down power line on Side A. Engine 41 [Lt. Goodson] was second due, picked up Engine 21's split lay, and tried to establish a continuous water supply. Their efforts were hampered by one of two frozen hydrants in the area. Meanwhile, Engine 21 had extinguished the bulk of the fire on the first floor and was keeping the heavy fire in the garage from extending into the house. Truck 2 [Lt. Hoosock] split the crew and started a primary seach of the residence. Car 3 [Stevens] arrived and covered division two operations. Due to the frozen hydrants and lack of continuous water, interior crews were pulled out as tank water was running out. Engine 31 [Capt. Lyons] positioned near side A. Crew members from Engine 41 stretched a line from Engine 31 and started fire attack on the garage from the exterior. A hydrant was put in service minutes later, allowing crews to go back to interior operations. Car 2 [Perkins] was the water supply officer and later garage operations. Ladder 1 [Lt. Schweitzer] laddered the structure and provide horizontal ventilation and overhaul, Rescue 3 [Lt. Montague] was assigned RIT, but was eventually relieved by a crew from North Syracuse FD so they could work on overhaul in the garage. Engine 11 [FF Delong] also assisted with overhaul. Mulitiple units also worked to overhaul the garage. Car 1 [Wisnowski] assisted in the command post. The fire took approximately 45 minutes to fully extinguish due to a heavy fire load in the garage area. Engine 22 [FF Akin] also assisted on the scene. MCFD crews overcame a significant water supply problem and effectively prevented the fire from extending

 

January 9th, 2011

 

Moyers Corners firefighters called to Bayberry house fire twice this morning

 

Catie O’Toole

 

The Post Standard

 

Clay, NY - A father and his adult son, along with two dogs, got out of their house safely early this morning in Clay after a fire broke out, Moyers Corners Battalion 1 Fire Chief Steve Zaferakis said. Residents on and around Oriole Path in the Bayberry neighborhood heard what they thought was an explosion shortly before 4 a.m. today and called 911, Zaferakis said.  When Moyers Corners firefighters arrived at the house at 8 Oriole Path, they saw "heavy fire" in the garage and back of the house, Zaferakis said. The fire extended to the first floor of the house, but firefighters were able to extinguish the flames inside the house. The fire continued inside the garage, but firefighters had to step outside the house until they could resolve water supply problems, Zaferakis said. Two fire hydrants were frozen at the time, he said. "We were initially able to protect the house, but then we had to pull out because we were running low on water on the engines," Zaferakis said. "We always hook into a hydrant for continuous water flow." Firefighters were able to get water from one of the hydrants and then extinguished the rest of the fire. Although some neighbors reported hearing an explosion, firefighters could not confirm whether there actually was an explosion.  Onondaga County fire investigators are looking into the cause of the fire. The fire appears to have started in the garage, which is attached to the two-story wood frame house, Zaferakis said.  About 50 volunteer firefighters from Moyers Corners Fire Department, as well as an engine from North Syracuse Fire Department responded early this morning. Moyers Corners firefighters and Onondaga County sheriff's deputies were called back to the scene after someone reported the fire had reignited in the attic at 11:24 a.m. After firefighters first extinguished the fire around 4:30 a.m., the house had smoke and water damage throughout the structure, Zaferakis said. Members of the American Red Cross were at the scene, assisting the homeowner, Zaferakis said. According to Onondaga County tax records, the property is owned by Gary and Renee Huband.

 

January 12th, 2011

 

Henry Clay Boulevard reopens after early morning accident

 

Robert A. Baker

 

The Post Standard
Photo by Dick Blume

 

Henry Clay Boulevard reopened at about 9:05 a.m. after it was shut down between Vine Street and Buckley Road after a car hit a utility pole. Here's what Moyers Corners Fire Department Battalion Chief Steve Zaferackis said happened. A car being driven north on Henry Clay Boulevard by a woman lost control and crossed the road hitting a utility pole on the west side. As a result of the accident live power lines fell down around the car, which also had a two year-old passenger. The road was shut down while firefighters waited for National Grid to shut off power to the lines. It took firefighters about five minutes to remove the woman and child from the vehicle once the power lines were shut off. The child was not injured. The woman had minor injuries and was taken by ambulance to a local hospital.

 

January 25th, 2011
Liverpool man, in coma after crash 10 months ago, dies
The Post Standard
By Douglass Dowty
Liverpool, NY -- A Clay man has died 10 months after a crash that also injured his 1-year-old daughter and the baby's mother. Jorge Palmero, 28, of 7092 Ourted Circle, was charged with drunken driving after the crash that left him in a coma at Upstate University Hospital for months. Palmero died last Thursday; services will be Wednesday, according to Krueger Funeral Home in Mattydale. His daughter, Analise Palmero, and the baby's mother, Jamie Finnegan, 21, of 8592 Woodsboro Drive, Lysander, both survived the March 29 crash. A Moyers Corners battalion chief, Steve Zaferakis, was honored in July for helping rescue the baby, who survived without a scratch. Sheriff's deputies have said Palmero was driving a 2000 Nissan Altima north on Oswego Road about 10:05 p.m. Sunday when the car crossed into the southbound lane and hit a 2002 Chevrolet Camaro being driven by Darlene Halstead, 59, of 1342 County Route 22, Albion. He was a cook at McDonald's in Liverpool. He previously worked for AT&T in Syracuse as a customer service rep, according to his obituary. Halstead was treated for injuries at a nearby hospital and later released, deputies said. Palmero was charged with driving while intoxicated with a child younger than 15, a felony, driving while intoxicated endangering the welfare of a child; and aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, both misdemeanors, and failure to stay in lane and not wearing a seatbelt, both violations. He is also survived by his parents, two sisters and a second daughter, Gabrielle, according to his obituary.

 

February 8th, 2011
Syracuse area firefighters ask residents to help keep hydrants clear of snow
The Post Standard
By Douglass Dowty
Syracuse, NY -- Moyers Corners firefighters were inside battling a blaze at a Clay residence last month when the water supply ran out and they were forced to evacuate. Two fire trucks’ tanks were dry. The two nearest fire hydrants were frozen and buried under the snow. It’s the first time in 16 years Battalion 1 Fire Chief Steve Zaferakis has been to a fire in which two fire hydrants were frozen from the snow. Fire departments across Central New York are asking the public’s help in keeping hydrants clear this winter. They say the large amount of snow and the lack of a significant thaw have made it increasingly difficult to keep the hydrants clear in case of fire. “The snow banks are extremely high,” said Joe Rinefierd, director of Onondaga County Emergency Management. “It’s becoming a real issue.”

 

He urged residents to “adopt” a fire hydrant on their property, and pledge to keep it clear. If firefighters are aware that a particular resident is unable to clear their hydrant, then firefighters can plan time to clear that one, Rinefierd said. Volunteers often spend training time in the winter on hydrant detail. Syracuse firefighters have routine details to keep hydrants clear, said Deputy Chief Ed Kurtz. But it can take a few days to reach all hydrants after a large snowstorm. In the Clay fire Jan. 9, the volunteers were forced to watch from outside the burning home on Oriole Path for several minutes until the hydrants could be cleared and unfrozen, said Zaferakis. “Luckily, it worked out for us,” he said. “It could have been a lot worse for the homeowner.”

 

In Oswego, firefighters were faced with a buried hydrant during a fire Monday afternoon on Tallman Street that left a family of three temporarily homeless. One of the 12 firefighters that responded first had to spend several minutes digging out the hydrant instead of fighting the fire, said Fire Chief Jeffrey McCrobie. It took a precious body away from the initial fire attack. “You spend a few minutes digging out a fire hydrant, and you’re starting in a hole already,” McCrobie said. He urged residents to help the fire department out when possible, though keeping hydrants clear is technically the fire department’s job, he said. “We so much appreciate neighbors and residents who take care of their hydrants,” he said. “But we realize not everybody has the means, opportunity or time. People are having a hard time keeping their own driveways up, I can’t expect them to go do their hydrants first.”

 

The fire department has called in work crews from the jail over the past four weekends to help clear the city’s 900 hydrants, he said. Down the road in Fulton, the fire department issued a statement urging residents and businesses to help keep the hydrants clear. “Hydrant shoveling details for the Fulton Fire Department cannot keep pace with the snowfall,” Chief Anthony Gorea said in a release. He asked people not to block hydrants while clearing parking lots, driveways or sidewalks. The Auburn Fire Department has also sent crews out, but that cuts into training time, Assistant Chief Al Mendillo said. “We just have to put training on the back burner until we catch up,” he said.

 

February 19th, 2011

 

Rescue 4 assists with Route 481 pile-up

 

www.mcfd.org

 

Crews from Moyers Corners Battalion 1 were alerted to a motor vehicle collision on Route 481 north of Route 31. Car 5 [Capt. Zeppetello] and Battalion 1 [Zaferakis] went en route within a minute of dispatch. Heavy snow and wind conditions made the travel very treacherous. Fire control gave reports of a large pile-up north of Route 31 on Route 481. Car 5 arrived first and indicated that this was well in to the Phoenix Fire Department district in Oswego County. Approximately 30 vehicles were off the road with extensive damage to most vehicles over a quarter mile stretch of the highway. Two tractor trailers had also jack-knifed. Battalion 1 arrived and started patient assessment on the south side of the incident. Crews from Phoenix FD handled the north zone. Rescue 4 [FF Beardsley] and Car 5 assisted with the assessment and started packaging two patients in two different vehicles. NOVA and NAVAC ambulance handled those two patients. MCFD remained on the scene for approximately an hour assisting Phoenix FD February 26th, 2011 Reported fire in Phoenix www.mcfd.org February 26th, 2011  0618 hours. Moyers Corners Engine 11 was dispatched to a reported fire in at 227 County Route 12 in the Phoenix Fire District.  First arriving Phoenix Chief's reported heavy smoke and fire with the possibility of people trapped.  MCFD Engine 11 [Lt. Schwietzer] and Car 5 [Capt. Klem] were second due to the scene.  Upon arrival, Engine 11 provided tank water to Phoenix Engine 1. MCFD then assisted the first due Phoenix crew with getting the primary handline in service.  The crew from Moyers Corners Station 1 then started a primary search and ventilated the structure which significantly helped improve interior visibility.  With interior operations continuing, the crew from Engine 11 then cut a hole in the side of the building allowing for a secondary entry/egress point.  They then assisted with overhauling the structure.  Engine 11 returned to service at 1000 hours. L

 

March 6th, 2011

 

Busy day for MCFD Station 1

 

www.mcfd.org

March 3rd proved to be a busy day for Station 1.  At approximately 9:32 a.m., Station 1 was dispatched to a reported structure fire in the village of Phoenix.  The first arriving chief reported a working structure fire with heavy smoke from the second floor.  Moyers Corners Engine 11 (Delong) responded with a crew of three followed by Squad 1 (Schweitzer) with a crew of 2.  Engine 11 arrived second due and assisted Phoenix in getting the primary line in service on the second floor.  After conducting a primary search, E-11’s crew assisted Phoenix with fire suppression.  Squad 1 stretched a secondary line to the second floor and assisted with fire suppression.  Once the fire was knocked down, both crews began pulling ceilings to access any remaining fire, which was confined to the attic.

Soon after a knock down was declared, Cody F.D. was activated for a structure fire and, upon arrival of the first responding chief, a working fire was reported followed by a request for any crews available at the Phoenix fire to respond.  Both E-11 and S-1 responded to assist.  The structure involved was a large garage/workshop with a significant fire load and, due to the deteriorating structural stability of the building, an exterior defensive attack was made.  Both Moyers Corners crews were assigned fire suppression and manned two of the three operating handlines.  Once the fire was declared a knock, the MCFD crews were released.

 

 

 

March 30th, 2011

 

MCFD members reach milestone

 

www.mcfd.org

 

The Moyers Corners recently honored two forty year members at their 63rd Annual Banquet. Past Deputy Chief George Race and Past Captain Stephen Rubacky were presented their service awards for forty years of dedication and service to their community and the Moyers Corners Fire Department. NYS Assemblyman Donald Miller recently announced a resolution in their honor to the State of New York Legislators. Congratulations to George and Steve on reaching this milestone, and for everything you have done for the Moyers Corners Fire Department and your community. Also, thank you to George's wife Marilyn and children Steve and Kristen, as well as Stephen's wife Betty and children Marianee, Mark and Tricia for you support and dedication. 
     Stephen Rubacky was voted in to the Moyers Corners Fire Department on November 19th, 1970. He was sponsored by Don Gates and Ron Fisher. Mr. Fisher worked with Steve at GE and constantly encouraged him to join the department. Mr. Gates was his neighbor and an active member. In the evening and on the weekends, Steve could hear the siren going off near his Bayberry home. Mr. Fisher said that if he was going to wake up from the sound of the siren, he might as well join the department and respond to the calls. The final vote of course to join the fire department came from Steve’s wife Betty. Her father William Barr, an ex-Navy purple star recipient who actually landed in Japan during WWII, was the past fire chief of Glenfield Volunteer Fire Department in her hometown. He was the Chief in Glenfield until his death from cancer. Steve’s wife Betty had an understanding of volunteer firefighters as she used to answer the fire phone at the firehouse when she was growing up. She gave Steve her blessing. In Steve’s 40 years with the Moyers Corners Fire Department, he has held the following positions: 

 

November 1971-1972 – Assistant Secretary
1973-1978 – Secretary
1987-1989 – Firematic Lieutenant at Station 1
1990-1992 – Firematic Captain at Station 2
1993 – Firematic Lieutenant at Station 4
2003-2004 – Vice President
2005-2009 – Fire Police Captain

 

 

 

Steve has proudly served on the Master Plan Committee, By-Laws Committee, and Scholarship Committee. He has been the Chairman of the By-Laws Committee for the past 16 years. In 1995 he was awarded Firefighter of the Year at Station 4. From 1985-2010, he also served as both a firefighter and fire police member. Congratulations Steve on achieving this monumental goal and thank you for 40 years of dedication, commitment, and excellence to the Moyers Corners Fire Department. George Race was voted in to the Moyers Corners Fire Department in December 1970. He has served on countless committees and has played a pivotal role in training and mentoring our future firefighters and officers. George served on the Station 2, 3, and 4 building construction committees as well as the committees for every apparatus that has graced the bay floor at Station 2. He was also firefighter of the year for Station 2 in 2010. George has also had the honor of being the first Battalion 2 Chief. Congratulations George on achieving this monumental goal and thank you for 40 years of dedication, commitment, and excellence to the Moyers Corners Fire Department.

 

 

 

April 18th, 2011

 

Structure fire on Girvan Court

 

www.mcfd.org

Monday April 18th, 1915 hrs. Moyers Corners was alerted to a reported fire on Girvan Court in the Station 2 response area. Numerous callers indicated that flames were coming out the front door. Car 1 [Chief Wisnowski], Car 2 [Chief Perkins], and Car 4 [Chief Crispin] marked out right away. Car 3 [Chief Stevens] arrived with heavy fire on the front of the structure. A Signal 99 was struck. Car 3 had the command, Car 4 had the interior, Car 3 had the safety, and Car 1 had the operations. Battalion 1 [Chief Zaferakis] assisted with the command. Engine 21 [Capt. Zevotek] was first due, brought in the closest hydrant, and stretched a 300' inch and three quarter attack line to side A. Truck 2 [Lt. Hoosock] arrived second and split the crew for roof operations and a primary search. Engine 31 [FF J. Wisely] pumped Engine 21's hydrant and pulled a 2" attack line to back up Engine 21's crew. Engine 41 [Lt. Goodson] brought in a secondary hydrant and stretched an inch and three quarter attack line to the rear of the structure. Engine 21's crew extinguished the bulk of the fire within 5 minutes while crews from Rescue 3 [Capt Lyons] assisted with the primary search and protecting the adjacent apartment. Rescue 4 [FF Sears] covered the RIT assignment. Ladder 1 [Lt. Schweitzer] assisted Truck 2 on the roof and performed overhaul. Engine 11 [Capt. Klem], Engine 32 [Lt. Daloia] Engine 22 [FF S. Race] also assisted with overhaul. Engine 22 also pumped the secondary hydrant. NOVA Ambulance covered the EMS sector while crews from North Syracuse, Liverpool, Clay, and Belgium Cold Springs stood by at MCFD stations. The fire was knocked down within 10 minutes and crews were in service within 3 hours from time of dispatch

 

 

 

April 19th, 2011

 

Cooking oil on stove started fire at Clay apartment building, investigators say

 

John Mariani

 

The Post Standard

 

Clay, NY – Cooking oil on a stove appears to have ignited a fire that burned a family of four out of their Clay apartment Monday, Onondaga County fire investigators said.  Moyers Corners firefighters arriving shortly after 7:14 p.m. to 4 Girvan Court at the Saddle Club Townhomes complex found the front of the structure in flames, department officials said on the fire company’s website. The fire was knocked down within 10 minutes, officials said. The residents were home when the fire broke out but all got out safely, said Moyers Corners Battalion Chief Stephen Zaferakis said. Their names were not available but American Red Cross officials described the residents as a family of two adults and two children. No one was hurt fighting the fire, he said. The fire started on the kitchen stove when cooking oil ignited, said Joseph Rinefierd, director of fire for the county Department

 

of Emergency Management.  Damage was contained to the two-floor apartment,Rinefierd said. The apartment was extensively damaged but should be savable, he said. The Red Cross is providing assistance to the family.

 

 

 

April 26th, 2011

 

MCFD expecting new Truck 2

 

www.mcfd.org

 

For the past 18 months, the volunteers from Moyers Corners have worked diligently to replace Truck 2.  In the coming weeks, the new Truck will be delivered to the department.  Committee members are currently traveling to Sutphen to do a final inspection of the vehicle before it travels to it's new home in the Corners

 

 

 

May 4th, 2011

 

Moyers Corners firefighters grow mustaches for good cause

 

The Post Standard

 

Sarah Moses

 

Steve Zaferakis, a chief for the Moyers Corners Fire Department, wanted a fun way to raise money and awareness for the Burn Foundation of Central New York. “It just hit me, we could grow mustaches,” said Zaferakis, the Station 1 battalion chief. Twenty-eight firefighters grew mustaches throughout April and collected donations for foundation, which provides awareness, prevention and support to burn victims and their families. Donors can vote online through Friday. “We wanted to do something to raise money for this foundation because it benefits the entire region, not just firefighters, but anyone who is affected by or recovering from burns,” he said. “And I wanted to find something that would bring comradery amongst the guys.”  Zaferakis said when he sent an email to the volunteer firefighters he immediately knew the fundraiser was going to be a success. “I gave everyone a couple of weeks warning so they could tell their significant others that they were going to grow a mustache for the next month,” he said. Some firefighters had to shave their mustaches.

 

 

 

Everyone started clean-shaved, said Zaferakis who has never had a mustache before. “There’s a couple that are doing pretty good and there’s a couple that you have to look really close to see if they are really growing one because you can’t see anything,” Zaferakis said. Lt. Joseph Montague, 25, said he has not had a beard in five years because firefighters are prohibited from having a full beard due to the masks they wear fighting fires. He said he was excited to take part in the fundraiser. “It helps us grow stronger together and it allows us to help the community,” Montague said. “So for me it was a win-win.” Montague has a long mustache that comes down the sides of his mouth, but not everyone in the department has had such an easy time growing a mustache. “It’s different for me because I’m mainly the butt of all the jokes,” said Chad Schaefer, 18. “I have some peach fuzz going on.” Schaefer is an Onondaga Community College student enrolled in the department’s Bunk-In Program. Schaefer said he’s been trying, but can’t grow one. “I’m not growing a mustache, but I’m still getting donations and raising awareness.” The female members of the department are collecting donations from local businesses.

 

 

 

Zaferakis said he is still tallying the donations, but so far firefighters have raised about $3,000 in donations and the department has raised about additional $2,000 from corporate sponsors. Anyone who has donated at least $5, will be allowed to vote on the men’s before and after photos, which are displayed on the department’s website at mcfd.org/about/mustache-contest. Awards for the best in show, most fitting, scariest, worst attempt and most colorful mustaches will be given out at a ceremony at 6 p.m. on May 13 at the station 1, on Route 57 in Baldwinsville. A check will be presented to the burn foundation at ceremony, which is open to the public. The department is still accepting donations this week. To donate, send an email to mustache@mcfd.org or call 652-7733.

 

 

 

May 5th, 2011
Two people injured in crash between motorcycle and car in Clay
Robert A. Baker

 

The Post Standard
Photo by OSCD

 

Clay, NY -- Two Clay residents went to hospitals with non-life threatening injuries following a crash this morning between a motorcycle and a car in the town of Clay, deputies said. The crash happened about 8:22 a.m. at Henry Clay and Norstar boulevards, deputies said. Matthew Higgins, 24, of 4818 Glencrest Ave., was operating his 2003 Yamaha motorcycle north on Henry Clay Boulevard when he crashed into a 2008 Pontiac operated by Rebecca Brown, 27, of 4803 Norstar Blvd. as she was pulling onto Henry Clay Boulevard, deputies said. Higgins was traveling at a high speed when the motorcycle collided with the car, deputies said. Higgins was ejected from the motorcycle and thrown about 75 feet from the intersection, deputies said. The motorcycle's gas tank ruptured and burst into flame, deputies said. The fire was quickly put out by the Moyers Corners Fire Department. Higgins was taken by ambulance to Upstate University Hospital and Brown was taken to St. Joseph's Hospital Health Center. Higgins was issued a ticket for speeding and Brown was issued a ticket for failure to yield right-of-way. Henry Clay Boulevard was closed between Buckley and Taft roads for about an hour and 15 minutes after the crash.

 

Cnycentral.com
Two people were taken to the hospital following a morning crash involving a car and motorcycle. It happened around 8:22 a.m. at the intersection of Henry Clay Boulevard and Norstar Boulevard. Onondaga County Sheriff's deputies say 24-year-old Matthew Higgins, of 4818 Glencrest Avenue, was operating a 2003 Yamaha motorcycle when he crashed into a car. Higgins and the driver of the car, 27-year-old Rebecca Brown, of 4803 Norstar Boulevard, both suffered minor injuries. Witnesses say Higgins was traveling at a high rate of speed and slammed into Higgins car as she was turning onto Henry Clay Boulevard. Higgins was ejected from the motorcycle and thrown approximately 75 feet from the intersection. The motorcycle's gas tank ruptured, bursting into flames. Rescue crews from the Moyers Corners Fire Department quickly put out the fire. Higgins was taken to University Hospital with non life threatening injuries. Brown was taken to St. Joseph's Hospital with non life threatening injuries. Henry Clay Boulevard, between Buckley Road and Taft Road, was closed to all traffic for more than an hour while crews cleared the scene. Higgins was issued a traffic ticket for imprudent speed and Brown was issued a ticket for failure to yield the right of way.

 

 

 

May 6th, 2011
Fatal rollover on Grampian Road
www.mcfd.org

 

May 6th, 2011. 0110 hours.  Moyers Corners stations 2 and 3 were alerted to a vehicle accident with injuries on Grampian Road near Garloch Court. Initial reports indicated that a vehicle had rolled over with one occupant pinned underneath the vehicle. Car 4 [Crispin] responded and added Battalion 1 units to the alarm. Battalion 1 [Zaferakis] marked en route shortly after. Upon arrival, Car 4 reported that one person was trapped under the vehicle. After briefly extinguishing a minor fire in the vehicle's engine compartment, Car 4 and a crew from NOVA ambuance tried to free the victim. Battalion 1 arrived and assisted. Engine 22 [FF Belczak] also assisted with patient removal as well as scene safety by stretching a handline. The victim was pinned beneath the passenger door that was in the open position and wedged into the roadway. The victim was removed by using a halligan bar while other members lifted up on the door. Crew members from Engine 22 and NOVA ambulance started CPR on the victim as Rescue 3 [Lt. Daloia] and Rescue 4 [Lt. Watson] started the extrication of the driver of the vehicle. Extrication was completed by a full roof removal of the sedan. Total extrication time was 20 minutes from dispatch. Another occupant of the vehicle was also packaged for transport by rescue crews. In all, 4 adults and one child were transported to Upstate Hospital by NOVA and Rural Metro ambulances. Unfortunately, the passenger that was previously pinned by the door passed away at the hospital. Moyers Corners crew members worked swiftly and effectively despite the conditions found at the scene

 

May 6th, 2011
Driver Arraigned in Clay crash that killed girlfriend
The Post Standard
By John Mariani

 

Clay, NY – Neighbors at the Saddle Club Townhomes who ran early this morning to a one-car crash on Grampian Road found the driver behind the wheel, lapsing in and out of consciousness. A toddler was in a car seat in the rear of the Chevy Cobalt. A teenage girl was in a back passenger seat. A young man who also had been in the back seat was out of the car. It was only when an ambulance pulled up and its lights illuminated the area, said Kascee Pecore, one of the neighbors, that anyone realized that another victim lay partially beneath the wreckage. That victim, Debra Brown, was pronounced dead at Upstate University Hospital following the accident, Onondaga County Sheriff’s deputies said. Her 4380 Plantation Blvd. home was about five blocks from the accident scene. She was pregnant, according to relatives.

 

The driver, Mark Richter, 22, also of 4380 Plantation Blvd., initially was charged with driving while intoxicated, felony aggravated DWI for allegedly driving drunk with a child in the car, and imprudent speed, deputies said. The child was 17-month-old Isaih Richter, Richter and Brown’s son, deputies said. The Richters and passengers Ryan Kyanka, 21, of Syracuse, and Miranda Pellizzeri, 16, of Fayetteville, also were taken to Upstate. They were treated and released, a hospital spokesman said. This afternoon, officials additionally charged Richter with felony second-degree vehicular manslaughter and misdemeanors including one count of unlawful dealing with a child and three counts of endangering the welfare of a child, Sheriff Kevin Walsh said.

 

Richter was arraigned at 2 p.m. in Clay town court on most of the charges. He struggled to maintain his composure as Judge D. Jeffrey Gosch entered not-guilty pleas in Richter's behalf and appointed attorney William Sullivan to represent him. Gosch set bail at the $20,000 cash or bond sought by the district attorney's office and ordered him held at the Justice Center Jail. "I'm a horrible person and I'm going to miss my girl," Richter told a reporter as he was led from the courtroom. Richter faces another arraignment at 9:30 a.m. Saturday in Syracuse City Court on the unlawfully dealing with a child count and one of the endangering counts, officials said.

 

Senior Assistant District Attorney Chris Bednarski said the unlawfully dealing with a minor charge involves allegations Richter was providing alcohol to the 16-year-old who was a passenger in the car. Bednarski also said more charges could be considered by a grand jury once the investigation is completed and authorities have evidence of what Richter's blood-alcohol level was at the time of the crash.  Sheriff’s investigators said Richter, Brown, their son, Kyanka and Pellizzeri had attended a house party at 100 John St., Syracuse. Richter is accused of providing Pellizzeri with alcohol there, they said. Richter was driving everyone to the Plantation Road apartment when the accident happened, investigators said. The Cobalt was heading south on Grampian shortly after 1 a.m., failed to negotiate a turn near Garlock Court, left the road and hit a large tree head-on. The tree grows next to the duplex town home at 1 Garlock Court that Pecore shares with her fiance, Stephen Britner.

 

Pecore said she and Britner were getting ready for bed when they heard a loud bang. They ran downstairs. Britner was the first person to reach the car, followed quickly by Stephanie Muraca, a registered nurse from 1 Galt Court, across the street, she said. Pecore called Onondaga County E-911. The call taker asked how many people she could see. She told 911 she could see the driver, Pellizzeri and the child. Another neighbor, David Blancke, of 5 Garlock Court, said the car was smoking and sparking when he came out. He could hear Isaih crying. The father of an 8-year-old son said he knew he must pull the toddler out. "If it were not for the four-point harness on his Evenflo, he would have been done," Blancke said, referring to the child's car seat. Pellizzeri’s door was open. She tried to get out of the car on her own. Pecore said she and Muraca helped her down and stretched her on the ground. Muraca gave her a sweater. “That’s when we noticed Ms. Brown underneath,” Pecore said, using the name she learned later from news reports. “The door was actually on top of her so you couldn’t really see her until the light from the first ambulance arrived.”

 

Moyers Corners Fire Department rescuers arrived within five minutes, said Stephen Zaferakis, chief of the department’s 1st Battalion. Brown’s legs still were in the vehicle, but her body was slumped outside the car. Her door was open but on top of her, wedged into the ground, he said. Using a long pry bar and brute strength, firefighters levered the car up and other rescuers pulled Brown out from beneath the door, Zaferakis said. It took two or three minutes to free her, he said. Ambulance crews started CRP. Pecore said she never saw Brown move. Brown was unconscious the whole time, Zaferakis said. Firefighters then worked to free Mark Richter, taking about 15 minutes to get him out, Zaferakis said. Britner stayed with him as the work progressed. Richter was in and out of consciousness, but he told Britner his name, that Isaih was his son, and that he had been drinking, Pecore said. Zaferakis said he didn’t catch the name of the neighbor who stayed with Richter but said he held the driver’s neck straight while firefighters worked. “He was barefoot and in pajamas,” Zaferakis said. “He really went above and beyond.”

 

May 17th, 2011
Timothy Chura appointed police chief in Phoenix
The Post Standard
By Debra J. Groom

 

Phoenix, NY -- Timothy P. Chura, 53, of Liverpool, Tuesday night was named the new police chief for the village of Phoenix. The village board appointed Chura at a yearly salary of $30,000. Mayor Anthony Fratto said as a retiree, Chura could not make more than $30,000 a year. Chura has 27 years of service with the Syracuse Police Department as an patrolman, detective and supervisor. He also has worked with the Bureau of Narcotics Enforcement with the state Health Department and has been with the Moyers Corners Fire Department since 1978. Fratto said he interviewed 14 people for the chief position and then his top three choices were interviewed by a committee of the Central New York Association of Chiefs of Police. Chura replaces former Chief Rod Carr, who died March 11 at his home at age 64. Carr had been Phoenix chief since 2006 and previously served as the spokesman for the Syracuse Police Department for 15 years before retiring in 1993.

 

May 19th, 2011

 

MCFD firefighters raise $5600 in mustache contest

 

www.mcfd.org

Firefighters from the MCFD raised over $5,600 for the Burn Foundation of Central New York with their first annual mustache contest. Twenty-five firefighters competed during the entire month of April while collecting funds and raising awareness for the Burn Foundation of Central New York. Thank you to everyone that contributed, as well as all of the competitors. This event while likely become larger next year while the MCFD looks to merge their contest with the Syracuse FD's annual mustache contest The winners were: Best in Show: Steve Zaferakis, Most Fitting: Mike Hoosock, Scariest: Dominick Daloia, Worst Attempt: Chad Schaefer, Most Colorful: Mike Zaferakis

 

 

 

May 21st, 2011

 

Heater causes fire at Great Northern Mall

 

9wsyr.com

 

CLAY, NY (WSYR-TV) - Firefighters located and put out an electrical fire at Great Northern Mall in about 15 minutes on  Saturday.  Moyers Corners Fire Department said the fire began near Ruby Tuesday's inside the mall when a vestibule heater overheated.  The fire began about 10:00 p.m Saturday at the mall on Route 31 in the Town of Clay. No one was injured.  There was no damage to the mall.

 

 

 

May 21st, 2011

 

Crews Extricate One on John Glenn Boulevard

 

www.mcfd.org

 

Sunday May 21st, 0845 Hours

 

Moyers Corners Stations 2 and 4 were alerted to a vehicle rollover on John Glen Boulevard and Buckley Road. Battalion 1 units were just clearing an automatic alarm at Price Chopper on Route 31. Car 3 [Chief Stevens] and Battalion 1 [Chief Zaferakis] marked out from the north. Battalion 2 [Chief Brown] responded from Station 2. Battalion 2 arrived first and updated the location to the median on John Glen near the Eagles Pointe Town Homes. He indicated that one vehicle was on it's side with the driver pinned inside. Engine 22 [Captain Zevotek] and Rescue 4 [Lt. Watson] arrived first. Engine 41 [FF Bailey] and Ladder 1 [Lt. Schweitzer] arrived after clearing from the automatic alarm in the north. Car 3 had the command, Battalion 1 had the operations, and Battalion 2 had the safety. Rescue 4 stabilized the vehicle using their "z-mags" and step chalks. A crew member entered the vehicle to stabilize the patient. Engine 21 provided scene safety with a charge handline, while other members from their crew assisted with the extrication. The vehicle's roof was rolled and the driver was safely extricated from the vehicle within 15 minutes. NOVA ambulance transported the patient to an area hospital.

 

 

 

June 20th, 2011

MCFD Rescue 3 received a Pet Oxygen Mask Kit. Sponsored by Holly Ketcham of Liverpool, NY.

 

 

 

July 1st, 2011

 

MVC rollover on Route 481

 

www.mcfd.org

 

1630hrs. Moyers Corners Fire Department was alerted to a multi-vehicle MVC on Route 481 just south of the Oswego County border. Initial reports indicated that one vehicle had rolled over while another was down the embankment. Car 3 [Deputy Chief Stevens] arrived first and gave the report that one person had been ejected while another was trapped in the overturned vehicle. He also indicated that one person was trapped down the embankment. Car 3 had the incident command. Rescue 4 [Lt. Goodson] arrived and provided medical assistance to the driver ejected from the vehicle, while others rapidly extricated the unconscious passenger. Two Army field medic's from Fort Drum that witnessed the crash were also assisting with medical care of the ejected driver. The driver was loaded into Rescue 4 awaiting medivac. Engine 22 [Lt. Driscoll] arrived and provided medical care to the driver in the vehicle down the embankment. After packaging the two patients, from the overturned vehicle, Rescue 4 assisted Engine 22 with packaging the patient in the other vehicle. Engine 11 [Lt. Schweitzer] also assisted with patient packaging. Battalion 1 [Battalion Chief Zaferakis] arrived with Captain Zevotek and covered the Safety Officer positions. Rescue 3 [Captain Lyons] assisted crews with patient packaging. An off duty paramedic also assisted on the scene. Car 2 [Deputy Chief Perkins] also assisted with the command post. A State Police helicopter landed in the southbound lane but was not used in transport. Ambulances from Mentor, Nova, and GBAC transported the three patients to Upstate Hospital.

 

July 3rd, 2011
Salina man, 27, charged with arson in Friday night blaze
The Post Standard
Douglass Dowty

 

Salina, NY -- A Salina man was been charged with setting fire to his apartment late Friday on Candlelight Circle, between Route 57 and Morgan Road, according to Onondaga County Sheriff's deputies. Joshua Smith, 27, of 25 Candlelight Circle, Apt. A, was charged with felony reckless endangerment and arson after the 11 p.m. fire that damaged his apartment building. He has been sent to the county jail without bail until a mental health examination can be done. Nearby residents had to evacuated and firefighters, led by Moyers Corners, had to extinguish the blaze, deputies said. Smith admitted to deputies that he had started the fire, said Sgt. John D'Eredita.

 

Note:

 

The Moyers Corners Fire Department responded to a reported fire at 25 Candlelight Circle. Battalion 1 [Chief Zaferakis] marked out first. Fire Control indicated to Battalion 1 that the occupant of Apartment A had possibly started a fire in his own apartment. Fire Control then indicated the occupant had went back into his apartment. Car 2 [Chief Perkins] called en-route. Battalion 1 arrived with heavy smoke showing from a third floor window in the front of the apartment building. He then indicated to Fire Control that he would be passing command. Onondaga County Sheriff’s Department personnel had the occupant in custody upon Battalion 1’s arrival. Car 2 arrived and established command. Battalion 2 [Chief Brown] arrived and took the safety officer position. Engine 41 [Lt. Goodson] was first due, brought in a hydrant, and prepared for an interior attack. Battalion 1 had already done a primary search of the interior stairwell for victims, and located the fire room in the basement. He told Engine 41 to head towards the basement apartment on the A/B corner. After Engine 41 breached the doorwary to Apartment A, the newly introduced oxygen allowed the fire to “show itself” in the kitchen area. A quick attack was made. Engine 21 [FF Dan Izzo] and Engine 31 [Capt. Lyons] backed up Engine 41’s crew. Rescue 4 [Lt. Watson] and Truck 2 [Lt. Driscoll] searched the building, secured utilities and provided ventilation. Liverpool Truck 2 was also on the scene.

 

 

 

 

 

July 7th, 2011

 

MCFD honors a fallen hero

 

www.mcfd.org

C.W. Baker High School graduate Cpl. Kyle Schneider made his final trip home Thursday. Members from the Moyers Corners Fire Department paid their respects as the procession travelled through their fire district on State Route 31. Escorting the procession were representatives from the Baldwinsville Police Department, Syracuse Police Department, NYS Police, and Onondaga County Sheriff’s Department. Cpl. Schneider was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division II Marine Expeditionary Force at Camp Lejune, North Carolina. He was killed on June 30th in Afghanistan by an improvised explosive device. The Moyers Corners Fire Department proudly thanks Cpl. Kyle Schneider for his service and ultimate sacrifice protecting our country and freedoms. Our deepest condolences are extended to his family and friends. 
Semper Fi

 

 

 

July 19th, 2011

 

MCFD crews conduct MCI secenario drill

 

www.mcfd.org

 

During the month of July, crews from MCFD have been conducting vehicle extrication training as part of their department firematic training. Recently, crews from all four firehouses took part in a mass casualty incident involving two vehicles. With the help of the department's Explorer Post, five "victims" were strategically placed in and around two rolled over vehicles. Drill commanders then dispatched in Rescue 3, Rescue 4, Engine 41, Engine 22, and Ladder 1 to the MCI scenario behind Station 3. Command indicated that multiple patients had been ejected. MCFD Rescue 4 arrived first and assessed the scene. As Rescue 3 was pulling up, the officer of Rescue 4 directed his crew to the blue vehicle and Rescue 3 to the red vehicle. Two separate extrications took place. The engine companies protected the rescue crews with charged handlines while also supplementing the rescue companies. Total extrication time was 15 minutes for the entire scenario. Firefighters from Moyers Corners have been training all month on the fundamentals of vehicle extrication and patient packaging leading up to this MCI scenario. Great job to all of the participants

 

 

 

August 2nd, 2011

 

Firefighting is family affair for Onondaga County’s new emergency management director

 

Rick Moriarty

 

The Post Standard

 

Syracuse, N.Y. -- Firefighting is a family affair for Onondaga County’s new commissioner of emergency management.Kevin Wisely, 46, who started his new job Monday, joined a firefighter explorer program in Colonie, near Albany, when he was 13 years old. At the time, his father, Stephen, was a volunteer firefighter in Colonie. Stephen Wisely later served for several years as Onondaga County’s commissioner of emergency communications.As he and his family moved around Upstate New York, Kevin Wisely served as a volunteer with the Moyers Corners, Liverpool and Belgium-Cold Springs fire departments, serving as Belgium-Cold Springs chief. He re-joined the Moyers Corners after moving back to Clay seven years ago.His son, Stephen, is a part-time paid firefighter in Oneonta.“I’ve just been around firefighting all my life,” Wisely said.Wisely succeeds Peter Alberti, who retired as emergency management commissioner at the end of July after 30 years with the county. Wisely will be paid a $72,672 salary. Alberti was receiving $83,200.“I’ve worked closely with Peter,” he said. “I’ve watched and learned from Pete over the years.”County Executive Joanie Mahoney appointed Wisely last week to succeed Alberti. The appointment is subject to approval by the county Legislature, which meets this afternoon. Wisely will oversee a staff of seven people. The emergency management department provides command and other assistance to the county’s more than 50 volunteer fire departments at fire scenes, hazardous materials incidents and other emergencies. It also helps to coordinate training classes for volunteer firefighters and maintains an emergency operations center in the basement of the John H. Mulroy Civic Center. For the past 15 years, Wisely has served in a volunteer role as the county’s deputy emergency management coordinator. Wisely worked for National Grid and its predecessor, Niagara Mohawk Power Corp., for 21 years before leaving to accept the job with the county. In his most recent position with National Grid, he managed training and development for the utility’s network operations group. He said that, time permitting, he plans to continue serving as a volunteer with the Moyers Corners Fire Department.

 

 

 

August 3rd, 2011

 

Woman injured in Clay accident

 

Charley Hannagan

 

The Post Standard

 

Clay, NY-- Fire crews removed a woman from her car this morning after an accident at Morgan Road and Steelway Boulevard. The accident occurred at 7:56 a.m. Here's what Onondaga County Sheriff's deputies said happened: Tashia A. Lee, 39, of 135 Roverdale Road, Liverpool was driving her red 2007 Toyota Camry south on Morgan Road when it was attempting to turn left onto Steelway Boulevard. The Camry turned in front of a red 1994 Saab being driven north on Morgan Road by Mark Smith, 48, of 7200 Oxbow Road, Canastota. The two cars collided and Lee was trapped in her vehicle. She was removed by firefighters from the Moyers Corners Fire Department, and taken by NOVA ambulance to Upstate University Hospital complaining of pain. Smith was burned when the airbag deployed in his vehicle. He was not taken to the hospital. Lee was issued a ticket for failure to yield the right of way.

 

 

 

August 9th, 2011

 

MCFD Performs numerous rescues

 

www.mcfd.org

 

0915 Hours: 
MCFD was alerted to a MVC with injuires on Route 57 near John Glen Boulevard. Battalion 1 [Chief Zaferakis] called out and was given information that this was a vehicle vs. motorcycle with serious injuries. Battalion 1 arrived and assisted NOVA ambulance with treating the traumatic patient. Liverpool Car 2 [Chief Smith] arrived and took the command. Rescue 4 [Lt. Goodson] assisted with patient care while Engine 22 handled scene safety. The patient was transported to University Hospital by NOVA where he was unfortunately pronounced dead.

 

1215 hours:

 

MCFD Rescue 4 was "specialed" in to the scene of a worker trapped in a hydroelectric turbine at the Wave Hydro facility on Papermill Island in the Village of Baldwinsville. Car 3 [Chief Stevens] called out while Battalion 1 [Chief Zaferakis] responded to Station 4 to assist Rescue 4. Rescue 4 [Lt. Goodson] responded with a full crew and was the first heavy rescue into the scene. MCFD Car 3 had the initial operations. Upon arrival, members from Rescue 4 assisted with surveying the scene, identifying the location of the trapped worker and components of the turbine, and keeping the scene safe for rescuers. Syracuse Rescue 1 and 2, as well as Technical Rescue 3 were called in to the scene and took over recovery operations. Moyers Corners Engine 11 [Lt. Schweitzer] and Rescue 4 then assisted SFD Rescue 1 with safety rope. Crews from MCFD also worked together with Baldwinsville FD, Liverpool FD, Lakeside FD, and Plainville FD in building trenching, securing ladders into the water, and lowering boats. MCFD was back in service by 1645 hours. This was a very demanding day for all rescuers. Excellent work to everyone involved in the recovery operations. Top of Form

 

 

Bottom of Form

 

August 21st, 2011
Man loses control of SUV, crashes on John Glenn Boulevard in Clay
The Post Standard
Catie O’Toole
Clay, NY -- Onondaga County sheriff's deputies are continuing to investigate a crash that sent one person to the hospital this morning.At about 8:42 a.m. today, a man driving a 2006 white Chevrolet Trailblazer north on John Glenn Boulevard lost control of the vehicle, which went into median and flipped onto its driver's side, deputies said. The crash happened in a 40 mph zone, just south of McIntosh Street, while it was raining. Deputies say the driver was sober and they believe the man was wearing his seat belt, but they have not ruled out speed. The man, whose name was not immediately available, was trapped inside after the crash, deputies said. Moyers Corners volunteer firefighters extricated the man from the vehicle, and NOVA ambulance crews took him to Crouse Hospital in Syracuse. The driver has non-life threatening injuries, deputies said.

 

Pictures can be found on MCFD.org

 

September 6th, 2011

 

Safety Day at Station 1

 

The Post Standard

 

Sarah Moses

 

Liverpool, NY – The Moyers Corners Fire Department will hold a Community Safety Day from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday at Station 1, which is located at the corner of Route 57 and Route 31 in Liverpool. The safety day will feature a vehicle extrication demonstration. The department’s apparatus will also be on display, including the department’s new Truck 2. Representatives from the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office will be signing kids up for their Safe Kids ID Program. The New York State Fire Safety Trailer will also be on hand and Nova Ambulance will display their vehicles and equipment. Members of the Moyers Corners Fire Department, which is a 100 percent volunteer team, want to encourage the public to stop by and participate in day’s festivities.

 

 

 

October 3rd, 2011

 

Special smoke detectors give the deaf a fighting chance

 

9wsyr.com

 

Liverpool (WSYR-TV) -- It's something many of us take for granted; being able to hear a fire alarm in the middle of the night, warning us our lives could be in danger. But for one Central New Yorker, the issue's been front and center ever since she moved into her new apartment. She's deaf and has been searching for a special type of smoke detector.  Heather Hampsey, her boyfriend and many of their friends are deaf, but that hasn’t held any of them back in life. Heather is a graduate of R.I.T.  "I can hear with my hearing aid, but when I take it off, I'm deaf," said Heather. Meaning Heather needs to replace her regular smoke detectors with ones that us bright lights, something she hasn't been able to afford. "I need the bright lights in my eyes, so I know there's something going on where there's not supposed to be," Heather explained. "It would really, really help in feeling more safe in my apartment."

 

It turns out; the Moyers Corners Fire Department had just what Heather needed, left over from a federal grant program that supplied 12,000 regular smoke detectors and 600 special detectors for New Yorkers like Heather. 
Fire Chief Edward Stevens told NewsChannel 9, "To be able to have the opportunity to provide that equipment that will give them the chance to get that early warning to get out of that life threatening situation quickly makes our jobs a lot easier in the field." It would usually be up to Heather to buy her own special alarm because she lives in a privately owned apartment complex, but if you live in public or subsidized housing, that responsibility lies with your landlord. Heather got the last two detectors for this round of the grant, but Moyers Corners is already looking forward to expanding the program next year. "I feel a lot better. I really appreciate it," Heather said. Thirteen fire departments in Onondaga County received close to 50 special detectors as part of the grant program.

 

 

 

October 5th, 2011

 

Liverpool High School senior is killed in hit and run

 

Charley Hannagan

 

The Post Standard

 

Clay, NY – A Liverpool High School senior walking from work was struck and killed by a hit and run driver early this morning on Route 57 near Willowbrook Drive.  Joseph J. Ozimek III, 19, of 3802 Brompton Lane, Clay, was walking on Route 57 from his job at the McDonald’s restaurant on Route 57 when a vehicle struck him sometime after midnight. Onondaga County Sheriff Kevin Walsh initially had said at a news conference that Ozimek was walking to work when he was struck sometime between 2 a.m. and 4 a.m. As the investigation developed later in the morning, investigators learned that Ozimek was walking home sometime after midnight, said Sgt. John D'Eredita.  Deputies said they don’t know exactly when he was struck, what kind of vehicle hit him or who was driving it.  Deputies ask that anyone who may have seen something in that area of Route 57 between midnight and 6 a.m. call them at 435-3081, D'Eredita said. The vehicle was driving northbound on Route 57 when it hit Ozimek, throwing him several feet, said Deputy William Gabriel.  The accident scene is near a Centro bus stop by Willowbrook Drive. The victim was not found along the busy highway until shortly before 7 a.m. when a passenger in a Centro bus saw him, the deputy said.

 

“He had been there a little while,” Gabriel said.  Emergency responders from the Moyers Corners Fire Department and NOVA ambulance treated the victim at the scene. Ozimek was taken to Upstate University Hospital, where he was pronounced dead, the deputy said.   An autopsy will determine when Ozimek died, Walsh said.  In an email to members of the school community, Liverpool School District Superintendent Richard N. Johns said Ozimek was a senior at the high school. Counselors will be available to students who need them, the email said.   Northbound traffic on Route 57 this morning was rerouted around the accident scene. Deputies cordoned off the northbound lane near Willowbrook Drive this morning as they gathered evidence along the side of the road. Two orange cones marked the location of shoes on the road’s shoulder.   Deputies collected a small amount of debris left behind by the vehicle that struck Ozimek, Walsh said. 

Ozimek’s injuries were such that it’s unlikely the driver of the vehicle did not know that he or she had struck someone, the sheriff said. “It appears someone stopped relatively close to the accident,” Walsh said. “Whether the driver stopped or whether somebody else pulled over when they saw something, those are things we still have to determine.”  Douglas Cole, who lives at 4105 Willowbrook Drive, near the bus stop where Ozimek was found, said he did not know there had been an accident until he saw an ambulance taking the victim away.   “The speed here is unbelievable,” he said, adding that he no longer walks or rides his bike on Route 57.   Several people stopped at the accident scene and spoke with investigators. Walsh said investigators were following some leads. However, he asked for the public’s help in finding the vehicle involved in the accident.

 

 

 

October 8th, 2011

 

MCFD receives donated mattresses

 

www.mcfd.org
The Simmons Bedding Company and Raymour & Flanigan recently donated ten new ComforPedic memory foam mattresses to the Moyers Corners Fire Department. These mattresses will help firefighters "sleep cool" thanks to the cooling properties found in the ComforPedic Loft NxG memory foam. Neil Goldberg, President and CEO of Raymour & Flanigan stated, "We honored to give back to Onondaga County firefighters who fearlessly protect our community. We hope these new beds provide the firefighters with comfortable and rejuvenating sleep and serve as a reminder of our ongoing gratitude for their dedication".    Representatives from Simmons and Raymour & Flanigan made the surpise delivery on Monday September 12th to Moyers Corners Station 1. The four bunk-in students at Station 1 all received new mattresses, while the other six went to the main sleeping quarters. This "work hot, sleep cool" Firestation Makeover is part of the 20 week ComforPedic Loft roadshow tour which will travel more than 10,000 miles to showcase the new product line. Thank you very much to the Simmons Bedding Company and Raymour & Flanigan for the generous donation

 

 

 

October 31st, 2011

 

Structure Fire on Blueberry Road

 

www.mcfd.org

 

The Moyers Corners Fire Department was alerted to a reported structure fire at 10 Blueberry Road, in the station two response area.  Fire Control had received numerous calls on this alarm. Car 2 [DC Perkins] arrived within three minutes and advised fire control he had fire showing from multiple windows on the second floor of the residence. He then struck a "Signal99".  Car 4 [DC Crispin] arrived with Car 2 and assumed interior operations.  Engine-21 [Lt. Hoosock] arrived and secured a hydrant prior to making an aggressive interior attack.  Truck-2 [Capt. Zevotek] split his crew upon arrival and quickly made multiple ventilation holes in the roof while the rest of the truck crew threw ground ladders.  Car 3 [DC Stevens] assumed the safety officer position. Engine 41 [Lt. Goodson] pulled a second handline off Engine-21 and assisted the Engine 21 crew with fire extinguishment on the second floor.  Rescue 3 [Capt Lyons] assisted the truck company on the roof, and Engine 31 [Lt. Montague] brought a third handline into the residence.  Battalion 1 [BC Zaferakis] arrived and assisted with interior operations.

 

Also operating on scene were Rescue 4 [Capt Zeppetello] covering the RIT sector and Ladder 1 [Lt. Schweitzer] who headed up the large overhaul operation. Engine 11 [FF Stachurski] was in staging and eventually relocated to Station 4 as a standby crew.  The fire was knocked down in approximately 15 minutes. The scene was subsequently turned over to the Onondaga County Sheriff's Department and Fire Investigation Unit.  All Moyers Corners units were in service by midnight. A fine example of teamwork was demonstrated by MCFD crews working on the scene which led to a successful and safe operation. The Belgium Cold Springs Fire Department, Clay Fire Department, Liverpool Fire Department, and North Syracuse Fire Department were moved in to cover all four MCFD firehouses. NOVA Ambulance stood by on the scene.

 

Cnycentral.com
Fire investigators are looking into what caused a fire at a Halloween party in Liverpool.  Moyers Corners firefighters say flames started shooting out of the home at 10 Blueberry Road in the Bayberry neighborhood around 9 o'clock Sunday night. Patricia Jamison, who has lived in the home about seven years, says she was throwing a Halloween party for her niece, nephew, and grandchildren.  About 30 people were in the home at the time of the fire.Jamison says, during the party, her sister went upstairs, and noticed a fire in an upstairs bedroom. "They ran to get water, but once they got the water, the flames just busted out, so everyone got out of the house, and I called 911," says Jamison. Fire crews say they were able to contain the fire to the upstairs, but the second floor and the roof were still badly damaged. Fortunately, everyone was able to get out of the house safely. "Somebody could've gotten hurt," says Jamison.   "There were so many people, if we didn't all get out, somebody could've died.  We had little kids here, so I think God for that." Edward Stevens, the deputy fire chief of the Moyers Corners Fire Department, says, even though the cause of this fire is still under investigation, everyone should think about fire safety if they're holding a Halloween party. Stevens says make sure the entrance to the home is clear, so people can get out and fire crews can get in if there is an emergency.   If you're going to a party, don't park in front of fire hydrants.  Also, be careful where you put decorations, and make sure they are not near flames.

 

The Post Standard
About 20 people escape fire during Halloween party in Clay
By Douglass Dowty
Clay, NY -- About 20 people -- including 15 children -- escaped a fire tonight at a Halloween party in Clay's Bayberry subdivision, fire officials said. The 9 p.m. fire was reported in an upstairs bedroom at 10 Blueberry Road. The occupants first tried to pour water on it, but evacuated after it grew quickly, said Alice Jamison, whose family owns the residence. "The flames went up fast," Jamison said. "We got out real quick." About 45 firefighters, six fire engines and two heavy rescue vehicles responded, said Moyers Corners Fire Chief Ed  Wisnowski. No one was injured. The Red Cross was helping the occupants, including four people who live there, Jamison said. The fire was extinguished quickly. Its cause is under investigation.

 

November 2011

Moyers Corners Fire Dept. received an award from OCSD for assisting teams with the search for Jenni Lyn Watson  In a letter from Onondaga County Sheriff Kevin E. Walsh:

 

I am proud to present the Moyers Corners Fire Department with the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office Civilian Recognition Award. This award is designed to honor those who respond to the needs of our community by unselfishly serving to benefit others.  On November 19, 2010, nineteen year old Jenni-Lyn Watson was reported missing by her family. The college student, home for the Thanksgiving break, would soon capture the hearts and prayers of an entire community. The Moyers Corners Fire Department immediately realized that search efforts for Jenni-Lyn would require an unparalleled level of logistical support and offered the use of Station 3. For eight days your department provided and maintained the facility, which served as the command center of operations for hundreds of people searching for Jenni-Lyn.  I personnaly with to thank the members of the Moyers Corners Fire Department for your generosity and commitment to the community. It is my pleasure to present you with the Sheriff’s Office Community Service Award.  

 

Sincerely, 
Kevin E. Walsh, Sheriff

 

 

 

2012
Chief Ed Wisnowski
1st Deputy Chief: John Perkins
2nd Deputy Chief: Frank Crispin
3rd Deputy Chief: Steve Zaferakis
 Battalion 1 Chief: Colin Bailey
Battalion 2 Chief Mike G. Brown

 

Station 1 Captain Pete Klem 
Station 2 Captain Robin Zevotek
Station 3 Captain Dennis Lyons
Station 4 Captain Jered Zeppetello

 

Station 1 Lieutenants: Steve Schweitzer, Kevin Delong
Station 2 Lieutenants: Mike Hoosock, Bryan Mather, Bob Driscoll
Station 3 Lieutenants: Dominick Daloia, Joe Montague
Station 4 Lieutenants: Derek Watson, Ed Goodson

 

Executive Board:
President Ken Filow
Vice President Bud Neuman
Treasurer Bob Swahn, Assistant Treasurer Geoff Maes
Secretary Steve Leeper,  Assistant Treasurer Lauren Nichols
Fire Police:  Captain Gary Johnson, Lieutenants Jim Michel, Randy Frost

 

Bunk Ins:  Billy McSweeney, Phillip Clark, Troy Barrett, Matt Buttonschon, Tom Young, Chad Schaefer, Ryan Granger

 

 

 

Scholarship Winners: Brian Alsever and Whitney Brand

 

February 11th, 2012

 

One extricated on Orion Path

 

www.mcfd.org
0045 hours. Moyers Corners Stations 2 and 4 were alerted to a MVC on Orion Path at Route 57. Initial reports from 911 indicated a vehicle struck a house with one possibly unconscious in the vehicle. On-Star reported that they could hear someone breathing inside the vehicle. Battalion 1 [Chief Bailey] marked out first followed by Car 3 [Chief Crispin] and Car 4 [Chief Zaferakis]. Battalion 1 arrived and reported an unconscious male trapped in the vehicle located in the front yard at a residence on Orion Path. Car 3 started patient care. Rescue 4 [Lt. Goodson] arrived first. The rescue crew shored the vehicle, sent an EMT inside the vehicle, and prepared for a full roof removal. Engine 22 [Lt. Mather] arrived and stretched a handline to protect the crews working the extrication. Crews completed a full roof removal within 20 minutes from dispatch. The driver was transported by Rural Metro to a local hospital. The vehicle sustained major damage after it broke through a backyard fence, struck the foundation of a house, and plowed through the brick "Forest Hills" signage at the intersection of Orion Path and Route 57

 

February 18th, 2012

 

MCFD responds to explosion at Mercer Milling

 

www.mcfd.org

 

Daytime crews from Moyers Corners, Liverpool, and the Mattydale Fire Department were alerted to a reported explosion and fire at Mercer Mills located on Crossroads Park Drive in the MCFD Station 3 response area. Initial reports indicated one employee was hurt and there may be chemicals involved. Liverpool Car 1 [Chief Smith] marked out first followed by Moyers Corners Car 4 [Chief Zaferakis], Engine 21 [Lt. Hoosock] and Battalion 2 [Chief Brown]. A truck company was requested from Liverpool FD as MCFD Truck 2 was out of service for the day. Moyers Corners Engine 21 arrived first with nothing showing. They brought in the closest hydrant and positioned themselves on the "B" side of the building. Their crew stretched a handline, met employees at the nearest overhead door, acquired the MSDS sheet, and did a primary search for any other victims. The injured employee was moved to the front offices. Liverpool Car 1 assumed command. MCFD Car 4 took the interior sector. MCFD Engine 31 [FF Jennings] backed up Engine 21's crew while they briefly assessed the interior of the warehouse. Firefighter Jennings was assigned the Haz-Mat Sector while Car 4 evacuated the offices, including the injured employee and Rural Metro crew. Car 4 then declared an end to all interior operations while the Haz-Mat sector identified the involved chemical. MCFD Engine 22 [FF Myers] stood by on Engine 21's hydrant and brought their crew up to the scene. Mattydale's rescue was assigned to the Rapid Intervention Team. Liverpool Truck 2 stood by along with MCFD Engine 41 and Ladder 1. An additional Rural Metro ambulace responded to assist with firefighter rehab. Onondaga County Hazardous Materials coordinators and fire investigators were also called in to the scene. After securing all building utilities, crews set up ventilation. The chemical involved was powdered Sulphur. County Fire Investigators and OSHA are investigating

 

 

 

February 18th, 2012

 

One worker injured in chemical explosion at Mercer Milling in Clay

 

Robert A. Baker

 

The Post Standard

 

Clay, NY -- A chemical accident was reported today at a milling plant in the town of Clay. The explosion was reported about 11:30 a.m. at Mercer Milling, 4698 Crossroads Park. Mercer Milling makes vitamin and mineral premixes for farm animals and pets. Stephan Cert suffered a minor injury, Jeff Matuszczak, assistant general manager of the company, said this afternoon. Cert was taken by ambulance to St. Joseph's Hospital Health Center, where he was treated and released, Matuszczak said. Cert has returned to work, he said. Matuszczak said Cert was injured in a minor chemical reaction at the plant. "It's something we handle on a routine basis," Matuszczak said. The plant will be down for couple of hours, he said. There was no smoke or fire visible when firefighters arrived, Moyers Corners Deputy Fire Chief Stephen Zaferakis said. "However, we did have a dust in the air." Plant workers told the chief that a sulfur product was being mixed at the time of the reported blast. County fire investigators were on the scene to determine whether there was an explosion or fire, Zaferakis said. Zaferakis said he did not talk to the injured worker and is not sure how serious the man's injuries were. Melissa Fleischmann, speaking for Rural Metro Medical Services, said a man in his 20s with a serious injury was taken from the plant by ambulance to St. Joseph's Hospital Healthcare Center in Syracuse. He was not identified. No firefighters were injured. Moyers Corners, Mattydale and Liverpool fire departments responded to the scene. The employees of the company have been given permission to reenter the building this afternoon

 

Your News Now.com

 

CLAY, N.Y. -- A chemical reaction injured an employee at an Onondaga County company. Crews were called to a reported explosion at Mercer Milling on Crossroads Park Drive in Clay around 11:30 a.m. Thursday.  When firefighters got to the scene, officials said didn't see any flames, but there was an odor and haze in the air. They learned from employees that the incident involved a powdered sulfur chemical. One man in his mid-20s was taken to St. Joseph's Hospital with serious injuries. Fire officials said while this sort of call is rare, it's something they're prepared for. "We do train, we do have hazmat technicians within the fire department, the county has a team, but we do train yearly on responding to hazmat incidents," said Steve Zaferakis, Moyers Corners Deputy Chief. Investigators are now looking into what caused the incident.

 

March 12th, 2012

 

MVC on Henry Clay with wires down on school bus

 

www.mcfd.org

 

Moyers Corners Fire Department was alerted to a motor vehicle collision with injuries on Henry Clay Boulevard at Winchester Drive. Initial reports indicated that there were wires down across a school bus, and that the bus may be on fire. Car 4 [Chief Zaferakis] marked out first and had fire control notify National Grid. Car 2 [Chief Perkins] arrived first followed closely by Car 4. Car 4 indicated there was a traumatic patient in the pick-up truck located in the ditch. NOVA Ambulance and Car 4 made the decision to rapidly extricate the unconscious driver of the pick-up. Rescue 3 [Lt. Montague] assisted NOVA with care of the unconscious driver. Battalion 1 [Chief Bailey] was the safety officer. Engine 22 [FF D. Izzo] provided scene safety and assisted NOVA with patient care. National Grid crews made quick work of cutting power to the power lines resting on the roof of the school bus. During that time, Car 4 was able to make visual contact with the bus driver to ensure no one was hurt on-board. After the utilities were secured by National Grid, Rescue 3 and Rescue 4 [FF Sears] assisted with the evaluation of two children and two adults that were on the bus. The driver of the pick-up was transported to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries. All units were in service within 45 minutes

 

 

 

March 21st, 2012

 

MCFD Engine 32 assists NSFD on working fire

 

www.mcfd.org

 

4:45 pm. North Syracuse, Moyers Corners Station 3, Mattydale and Cicero were alerted to a reported structure fire at 108 East Wells Ave. On arrival NSFD Car 3 [Chief Strong] observed heavy smoke from the second floor and within minutes struck the "signal 99". NSFD Engine 8 arrived first and started an interior attack. Moyers Corners Engine 32 [Lt. Montague] arrived second. They pulled a second handline and entered the structure. Units were pulled out do to live ammunition exploding on the second floor. All attempts to access the second floor for the bulk of the fire were hindered by a massive amount of debris inside the home. An attempt was made by MCFD Engine 32's crew to enter the structure through the "A" side second floor window. However, they were pushed back when the room flashed. NSFD Truck 1 was put to work in the front of the home by utilizing the waterway to knock down the rest of the fire

 

 

 

 

 

March 26th, 2012

 

Give ‘em some lip – mustache-growing contest spreads across Syracuse area

 

John Mariani

 

The Post Standard

 

Clay, NY – A mustache-growing contest is spreading like a brush fire to raise money and awareness for the Burn Foundation of Central New York. Last year, the Moyers Corners and Syracuse fire departments held separate contests. Firefighter grew mustaches over the month of April and collected donations for the foundation, which provides burn support, awareness and prevention.  This year, the contest is open to all emergency service departments and the public, said Stephen P. Zaferakis, Moyers Corners’ deputy chief. Contestants are to grow mustaches during April, e-mailing “before” jpg photos of their hairless lips by April 1 and “after” jpgs displaying their cultivated ‘staches on April 30 to Zaferakis at mustache@mcfd.org. They also are to seek donation pledges from friends and neighbors.

 

April 27th, 2012
Two agencies investigating Soule Road Middle School explosion
The Post Standard
By Charley Hannagan

 

Clay, NY -- A veteran eighth-grade science teacher at Soule Road Middle School was teaching 22 students about the combustibility of the highly volatile chemical methanol Thursday afternoon when the experiment he was performing exploded. Children scrambled from the classroom, including a girl who ran into the hallway with her blouse on fire. Four people, including the teacher, suffered burns. Now two agencies are trying to determine how the routine experiment went wrong, said Liverpool Schools Superintendent Richard N. Johns. The Onondaga County Sheriff’s Department and the state fire marshal are investigating. The classroom where the explosion occurred was cordoned off today for the investigation. See more coverage of the Soule Road Middle School explosion.

 

Johns has not identified the name of the teacher or the students involved. One girl remains hospitalized at Upstate University Hospital where she was listed in good condition. Johns spoke this afternoon about the explosion, but said the district’s insurance company had limited the discussion of the accident’s details. “These kinds of experiments are in the curriculum. Obviously something went horribly, horribly wrong,” he said. The teacher is “perplexed” by the explosion that took place during an experiment he had done several times, Johns said. Five students were sitting around a table when the experiment “having to do with the combustibility properties of methanol, a very combustible compound” exploded, he said.

 

Fire alarms sounded. Students scrambled out of the classroom and into the hall. #8220;I know the one little girl came out into the hallway and she was on fire and that shook staff up,” Johns said. Another boy, who was also burned, ran out of the classroom in a panic, but then returned to help others get out, he said. The teacher and three eighth-graders — two girls and a boy, were burned when their clothing, loose papers and other items were ignited by the explosion. The school notified Johns within a minute of the explosion. He jumped in his car and raced from the district offices in Bayberry to the school on Soule Road.

 

When he arrived, Johns saw evacuated students outside the building and teams of emergency responders huddled around the injured as they lay in a hallway, he said. As the teams treated the injured, Johns said, he looked into the science lab. The classroom appeared to have been the scene of “a very hot fire, an explosive fire,” that had burned for a short period of time and put itself out, he said. Ambulances rushed the injured to Upstate University Hospital for treatment. Johns followed in his car. Johns spoke with the students and teacher as they were being treated in the emergency room. A girl suffered burns to her chest and hands when her blouse front caught fire and she tried to put it out with her hands, he said. She told him later at the hospital “I’m so glad Dr. Johns that you taught me in third grade to stop, drop and roll.”

 

Another girl suffered burns to her back when her collar caught fire, he said. The teacher and a boy were also burned, Johns said. The teacher suffered “significant” burns on his hands, he said. Even though he was in pain and his hands were wrapped in gauze, Johns said “he was very concerned about the students.” The teacher and two of the students were treated and released, the hospital said. The girl who was burned on her chest was to be in the hospital for several days, Johns said. However, “she seemed to be in very good spirits,” he said. The teacher did not return to school Friday, and Johns could not say when he would return to the classroom. The rest of the school’s students returned to the building at about 1:20 p.m., Johns said.

 

A decision was made to keep the students in class because it would have taken about an hour for the district to call in drivers to make a special bus run, he said. At that point it would have almost been the normal dismissal time, Johns said. Soule Road Principal Robert Sheitz spoke with the students before they returned to class. “A few of them were weepy and scared,” Johns said. “There were some on the staff that were shaken up too.” Extra counselors were on hand at the school Friday for any students or staff who wanted to speak with someone about what happened, he said. The district expected that some parents would come to the school Friday to speak with the principal and placed extra security there to direct traffic in the limited parking lot, Johns said. There was little damage to the classroom and it will be cleaned up, the superintendent said. In the meantime, Johns said he received permission from the state Department of Education to postpone state math testing that was to take place at Soule Road Friday.

 

May 16th, 2012
Firefighter Easton Receives EMS Honor
www.mcfd.org

 

The Oswego County Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council honored emergency medical services providers for outstanding patient care during its fifth annual awards banquet on May 11 at Bayshore Grove, 104 Bayshore Drive, Oswego. The awards are chosen by a subcommittee of EMSAC and based on the actions of emergency medical services (EMS) providers in the calendar year 2011.

 

“This is a wonderful opportunity to pay tribute to the professionals who serve the community as emergency medical services providers in emergency care,” said EMSAC President Norm Wallis. “Last year, almost 20 of these highly-trained and compassionate people were honored.”

 

This year’s recipients include: Alan Dane and Bryan Easton as ALS Providers of the Year; Kelley Davis, Shawn Simoneu, Nathan Smith, Donald J. “D.J.” Ketcham Jr. as BLS Providers of the Year; David Engle and Michael E. McDonald as Educator of the Year; Eric Koproski with the Lifesaving Award; Erin McKinstry for RN of Excellence; Michael Montgomery with the Leadership Award; and Garret Snyder for Excellence in STEMI Care. The guest speaker will be Dr. Derek R. Cooney, director of EMS and Disaster Medicine at SUNY Upstate Medical University. Congratulation to Firefighter/Paramedic Bryan Easton for receiving this honor

 

May 23rd, 2012

 

Structure fire on Ilex Lane
www.mcfd.org

 

Wednesday May 23rd, 2012. 0800 hours Moyers Corners Fire Department was alerted to a possible structure fire on Ilex Lane in the Station 2 response area. A passerby noticed smoke and flames coming from the residence. Car 3 [Chief Crispin] arrived first and reported heavy smoke showing. Liverpool Car 2 [Chief Ormsby] arrived and took the command. Engine 21 [FF D. Izzo] was first due, brought in a hydrant, and prepared for an interior attack. Car 4 [Chief Zaferakis] and Battalion 1 [Chief Bailey] arrived shortly after Engine 21. Car 4 took safety officer while Battalion 1 assisted. After Car 3 forced entry into the two doors in the front of the structure, Engine 21 made the attack on the fire located on the first floor. Engine 41 [FF Sears] prepared to bring in a second hydrant and backed up Engine 21's crew. Truck 2 [FF Harris] assisted with ventilation. Engine 31 [FF Dembowski] and Rescue 3 [FF Race] performed searches of the residence and assisted with overhaul. Ladder 1 [Lt. Delong] also assisted with search and ventilation. The fire was extinguished in under ten minutes and kept to the room of origin. Great job to all the crews working on the scene. The aggressive and coordinated attack minimized damage to the structure and kept the fire at bay

 

Your News Now

 

LIVERPOOL, N.Y. – Fire crews worked quickly to contain a fire and save a home on Ilex Lane in Liverpool. Officials said a passerby saw flames and smoke coming from the home around 8 a.m. The fire department was able to contain the fire to the garage area and ventilate smoke by breaking windows on the first and second floors. Officials said no one was inside the home at the time and no one was injured.

 

The Post-Standard
Home owner stuck in traffic as home in Clay burns
By Charley Hannagan

 

Clay, NY - As Ben Dillard sat in traffic this morning he watched several Moyers Corners fire trucks scream past him. A minute later his cell phone rang. "My neighbor called me and told me my house was burning," he said. "I was trapped in traffic." A passerby called 911 at 7:54 a.m. to report that heavy smoke and flames were coming from 8 Ilex Lane, said Moyers Corners Deputy Fire Chief Steve Zaferakis. Firefighters on the first engine on the scene saw heavy smoke coming from the house, he said. Firefighters attacked the fire, which was found on the first floor, Zaferakis said. The home sustained heavy smoke damage, he said. When the windows proved difficult to open, firefighters broke them to provide ventilation, the deputy chief said. No firefighters were injured fighting the fire, he said. As firefighters from Moyers Corners and Liverpool arrived, Dillard raced to the scene and parked his car around the corner. "It was heartbreaking to see him running down the street to his house," said Christina Warner, of 1 Ilex Lane. She and other neighbors stood in a driveway watching firefighters mopping up operations. Neighbors didn't know if Dillard was in the home he shares with his wife, Stephanie, and son Sean, when the fire began, Warner said. They worried that he was still inside and it was a relief to see him, she said. Dillard said he works for ARC of Onondaga overseeing disabled adults who work for National Grid. No one was home when the fire began, he said. By 8:30 a.m., firefighters were pulling still smouldering debris out of the house.

 

Dillard stood on the next door neighbor's lawn with a pile of medication saved by firefighters at his feet. He was surrounded by Red Cross workers as he made and answered calls on his cell phone. "The house is burned up," he told one caller. A New York State trooper came over and quietly told him firefighters had found the family's cat. A Red Cross worker standing nearby offered to get an animal carrier, but the trooper silently shook his head "no." The cat's name was Marcello, Dillard said. "I called her Fluff." The trooper told Dillard that he could take his time, but that animal control and firefighters could not take the animal for disposal. "Can I bury it in my backyard?" a dazed Dillard asked. Of course, but you don't have to do it right away, said the trooper. A few minutes later a firefighter appeared with the cat in a large red plastic bag. Dillard walked to a shed, got a shovel and started to try to dig a hole in front of a large tree. Another man offered to help, and when both were unable to dig the hole, Dillard carried the red bag to the back yard. Back on Ilex Lane neighbors had already begun making plans to collect items for the Dillards, Warner said. The cat's name was Marcello, Dillard said. "I called her Fluff." The trooper told Dillard that he could take his time, but that animal control and firefighters could not take the animal for disposal. "Can I bury it in my backyard?" a dazed Dillard asked. Of course, but you don't have to do it right away, said the trooper. A few minutes later a firefighter appeared with the cat in a large red plastic bag. Dillard walked to a shed, got a shovel and started to try to dig a hole in front of a large tree. Another man offered to help, and when both were unable to dig the hole, Dillard carried the red bag to the back yard. Back on Ilex Lane neighbors had already begun making plans to collect items for the Dillards, Warner said.

 

May 24th, 2012
The Post-Standard
Clay fire that killed cat ruled accidental
By Charley Hannagan

 

Clay, NY – A fire in Clay that heavily damaged a home and killed a cat Wednesday started accidentally, an Onondaga County fire official said today.  The fire at 8 Ilex Lane in Bayberry was caused by a failure in an extension cord, said Fire Bureau Director Joseph Rinefierd. No one was home when a passerby called 911 to report heavy smoke and flames coming from the two-story home at 7:54 a.m. Wednesday. Homeowner Ben Dillard said he was heading to work for ARC of Onondaga and was stuck in traffic when a neighbor called to alert him to the fire. He shares the home with his wife, Stephanie, and son, Sean. Firefighters from the Moyers Corners and Liverpool Fire Departments put out the fire. The family's pet cat died in the fire.

 

May 31st, 2012
Extrication on Route 481 North
www.mcfd.org
May 30th, 2012 2305 hours

 

Moyers Corners Stations 1 and 4 were alerted to a car vs. tree on Route 481 north near the Oneida River bridge. Initial reports from Fire Control indicated the driver was trapped inside the vehicle. Car 3 [Crispin] called out first, followed by Battalion 1 [Bailey], the Station 2 Wednesday evening standby crew on Engine 22 [Capt. Zevotek], and Car 4 [Zaferakis]. Cars 3 and 4 arrived and found an SUV located approximately fifty feet off the highway. The driver was pinned underneath the steering wheel. Car 3 assumed the operations, Car 4 took safety and Battalion 1 took the command. Operations then reported a "heavy extrication" and requested an additional heavy rescue. Engine 22 arrived and assisted with vehicle stabilization, patient care and stretched a handline for scene safety. Rescue 4's crew [Lt. Goodson] finished vehicle stabilization and prepared for a full roof removal. Engine 11 [Lt. Scweitzer] assisted with scene safety and secured a very large tree branch that was hampering operations. Upon completion of the roof removal, the patient was treated by paramedics from Nova Ambulance. Rescue 3 [Lt. Montague] arrived and assisted Rescue 4 with the next step of the extrication which was a dash roll using the hydraulic rams. The patient was removed safely from the vehicle with numerous firefighters from all of the crews working. Total extrication time was 48 minutes from time of dispatch. This was a very challenging extrication that tested the skills of everyone on the scene. A well orchestrated effort by all crews made for a safe and effective operation. Great job to all involved

 

June 7th, 2012
Centro bus catches fire on Soule Road
Your News Now
ONONDAGA COUNTY, N.Y. -- Some Centro bus riders had quite the scare after their bus caught fire at about 6:30 a.m. on Soule Road in the Town of Clay.Fire officials say the fire started in the engine compartment in the back of the bus and burned some seats inside. Firefighters were able to put the fire out in about 15 minutes. They said everyone was able to get off the bus before crews arrived and no one was injured.

 

The Post Standard
Centro bus fire briefly closes Soule Road in Clay
John Mariani
Clay, NY -- A piece of Soule Road in Clay was closed for about 40 minutes this morning after the engine compartment of a Centro bus caught fire, officials said. Onondaga County E-911 dispatched help about 6:33 a.m. to the bus, on Soule Road near Fairway Drive West. The fire spread from the rear compartment housing the diesel engine into the inside of the bus, Moyers Corners Deputy Fire Chief Frank Crispin said. Firefighters had to remove some seats and broke two windows on each side of the back of the bus to control the blaze. The bus was on the Liverpool Route 57 route heading toward Great Northern Mall when the driver noticed something was wrong, said Steven Koegel, speaking for Centro. He pulled over, got the three adult passengers off the bus without mishap and called the company's dispatch office, which called E-911, Koegel said. The passengers walked to their destinations, he said. The driver's name was not available this afternoon. The fire's cause is under investigation, Koegel said. Soule Road was closed between Renfrew Drive and Fairway Drive West while officials dealt with the incident. It reopened about 7:20 a.m.

 

June 8th, 2012
Fire extensively damages Mattydale house
The Post Standard
By John Mariani
Mattydale, NY -- There were no injuries this afternoon fighting a fire that extensively damaged a 1 1/2 story Cape Cod-style house at 806 Boulevard St. in Mattydale. No one was home when the fire was reported about 1:51 p.m., said George Dwyer, assistant chief of the Mattydale Fire Department. At least seven other departments sent crews to the scene, including North Syracuse, East Syracuse, Moyers Corners, Lyncourt, Hinsdale, Clay and Liverpool. Dwyer said he found the rear of the house in flames with smoke pouring out when he arrived. He bumped it up to a serious fire when he determined that more than one room would be damaged. He also called for more help, given temperatures near 80 degrees outside, he said. At 2:20 p.m., the back of the house appeared charred and firefighters could be seen tearing down siding. The front door was open and the front windows were broken, revealing fire damage inside. Dwyer said it appeared the fire started in the rear of the house. The cause is under investigation, he said. The Red Cross was on the scene to help the occupants.

 

June 15th, 2012
MCFD and Auxiliary Award Scholarships
www.mcfd.org

 

Whitney Brand is the daughter of Ken and Diane Brand.  Ken is a Retired Deputy Chief and Diane retired from the Clay Police Department.  Whitney is also the granddaughter of Charter, and Active Member of the Auxiliary Betty Hanlon, and Past Chief and Charter Member Ken Brand.  Whitney will be graduating from C. W. Baker High School in Baldwinsville, and going to Oswego State, toward a degree in Criminal Justice. She would like to follow in the footsteps of her parents, grandparents, and extended family with a career in public service. In academics she is exceptional with a 92 GPA, and a member in the National Honor Society.  Whitney acts as a mentor to fellow students and helps those who are having difficulties to be successful.  She volunteers in the Baker High School mentoring program, known as Jenna’s Mentors.  This program sends students into the Elementary and Middle Schools to talk with students about issues relating to bullying and self-esteem. Whitney is one of the Captains of the Varsity Swim Team, she also volunteers at the Regional Lacrosse Tournament at Baker High School, Relay for Life, and works as a Life Guard at Gold’s Gym. As one of her recommendations stated “I have watched her assess a situation and resolve a problem with utmost efficiency and thoughtful approach.  She is always aware of other people’s feelings and emotions.  She is a bright and resourceful young lady, who will no doubt amount to great things in her adult life”.

 

     Brian Alsever is the son of Roger and Karen Alsever and is a member of the Moyers Corners Fire Department’s Explorer Post 209. Brian will be graduating from Liverpool High School this June with a 92 GPA and is a member of the National Honor Society.  He will be attending American University, in Washington DC, for a degree in Criminal Justice.  With the goal, of working for a Federal Agency. Brian is a natural leader and he excels in whatever he does.  He is a member of the Liverpool Swim Team, where he is the Captain.  As a member of Boy Scout Troop 620, he has earned the rank of Eagle and has held numerous leadership positions.  Currently he is a Junior Assistant Scoutmaster.  As a member of the Explorer Post, he has served as President for two years.  Brian is employed by Liverpool High School as a Life Guard.  While on a day trip to Lake Ontario in the summer of 2011, he and some friends encountered a woman face down in the water and another woman struggling to stay afloat.  Here is where Brian put his Life Guard training into action.  While his friends pulled the woman that was face down out of the water, Brian rescued the other woman, out of the rough water.  The two women were a mother and daughter, while the daughter survived the mother did not.  If it wasn’t for the quick actions of Brian and his friends, there could have been a second loss of life. In Brian’s words “One of the main concepts I’ve come to base my life on is the Scout Slogan: Do a good turn daily”

 

June 18th, 2012
MCFD Receives Pet Oxygen Masks
www.mcfd.org
Oxygen masks for pets were donated to the Moyers Corners Fire Department by Dr. David Clegg of the Liverpool Animal Health Center and by Kurt Grage of Invisible Fence. These maks will be located on Department apparatus to facilitate caring for any pets encountered by the MCFD. We thank both organizations for their generous donations.

 

July 3rd, 2012
Multiple Unit Garage Fire at Norstar Apartments
www.mcfd.org

 

Moyers Corners was alerted to a structure fire in the garages at the back of the Norstar Apartments off of Henry Clay Boulevard. Numerous callers reported hearing explosions in the multi-unit garage adjacent to the last three-story apartment building in the complex. Car 4 [Chief Zaferakis] marked out first, followed by Car 3 [Chief Crispin], Battalion 1 [Chief Bailey] and Battalion 2 [Chief Brown]. Car 2 [Chief Perkins] arrived first with heavy fire from the structure and struck the Signal 99. He then established command. Engine 31 [Lt. Montague] arrived first followed by Truck 2 [Lt. Mather]. The truck went to the air with an elevated master stream while two and a half inch handlines were being stretched by Engine 21, Engine 31, Engine 32, and Engine 41 [Lt. Watson]. Multiple explosions occurred while crews made the attack from the "A" side of the multiple unit garage. Engines 31 and 32 then started their attack from the "C" side. Rescue 4 [Lt. Goodson], Engine 11  and Ladder 1 [Lt. Schweitzer] assisted with forcible entry of numerous garages. All hands were working on the scene. Due to the bulk of the fire and a need for additional manpower and resources, a second alarm was requested. Units from Clay, North Syracuse, Liverpool, and Cicero arrived at the scene and assisted with forcible entry, overhaul and extinguishment. The fire was knocked down within an hour. Numerous Onondaga County Fire Investigators were on the scene determining the cause. Using Battalion 2's command vehicle, a crew from Rescue 4 pulled two vehicles out of the rubble to assist the investigators. Crews were back in service by 0300 on the 4th of July. All teams combined their efforts on this muggy evening to stop the fire from extending the entire length of the multi-unit garage. NAVAC's rehabilitation unit was called to the scene as well as Jim's Service Center to remove multiple vehicles from various garages.

 

July 3rd, 2012
Fire in garages at Norstar Apartments
The Post-Standard
Charles Ellis
Clay, NY -- Multiple fire departments battled a fire in several attached bays of a multi-unit garage in the back of the Norstar Apartments complex in the town of Clay late Tuesday evening and early this morning. "We got the call initially on a report of an explosion and fire at the Norstar Apartments," said Moyers Corners Fire Department Deputy Chief John Perkins. "When we got here, several garages were already on fire."

 

The call came in at 11 p.m. It took a couple of hours to get the fire under control. Nobody was hurt, but an undetermined number of garage bays -- and vehicles -- were damaged, he said. The Onondaga County Fire Investigation Unit will work to determine the cause of the blaze, he said. The apartment complex is at 4803 Norstar Blvd. During most of the firefighting, at least a hundred people -- mostly residents of the apartment complex -- watched on a balmy night. Along with Moyers Corners, other departments at the scene included Liverpool, North Syracuse, Clay, Belgium Cold Springs and Cicero, Perkins said. The Red Cross provided cold water and other aid to the firefighters.

 

July 5th, 2012
Investigators still seek cause, starting point of Norstar Apartments garage fire
The Post-Standard
John Mariani
It may be next week before investigators determine where and how a fire started Tuesday that damaged the middle section of a 40-bay garage at the Norstar Apartments in Clay, Onondaga County Emergency Management Commissioner Kevin Wisely said. No one was hurt fighting the blaze, which broke out about 11 p.m. Tuesday at the complex at 4803 Norstar Blvd, Wisely said. It took about an hour to knock down the fire, according to a post on the Moyers Corners Fire Department website. Clay, North Syracuse, Liverpool and Cicero firefighters assisted Moyers Corners, the site said.  The garage contained 40 bays arranged in two rows of 20 front to back, Wisely said. The fire struck the middle section of the garage, affecting approximately six bays on each side, he said. Wisely said he did not know the extent of damage to property stored in the garage but said some bays did not have vehicles stored inside.

 

July 25th, 2012
Two charged with arson after town of Clay apartments garage fire
The Post-Standard
Charles Ellis
Clay, NY -- Two men have been charged with arson in the July 3 fire that caused heavy damage to a multi-unit garage. Tuesday evening Christopher M. Deverso, 40, of 4809 Bear Road, Apt. 5J and Robert C. Swartz, Jr., 40, of 3230 University Ave., in Denver, Colo., were both charged with third-degree arson. They are accused of intentionally setting the fire that destroyed a 40-bay garage at the Norstar Apartments, 4803 Norstar Blvd. Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. John D’Eredita provided these details:

 

At about 11 p.m. July 3, the Moyers Corners Fire Department responded to the town of Clay apartment complex after neighbors reported hearing an explosion coming from the garage facility, which quickly became engulfed in flames. Firefighters from neighboring departments took several hours to extinguish the blaze. Onondaga County Fire investigators determined that the fire originated in a double unit leased by Deverso, which housed his two 1967 Chevrolet Camaros. Sheriff’s detectives allege that Deverso and Swartz intentionally set the fire so that Deverso could collect the insurance from the two vehicles, which have a combined value estimated at nearly $80,000.

 

During the investigation, detectives learned that Swartz, a longtime friend of Deverso, was admitted to Upstate University Hospital the evening of the fire for treatment of burns that covered nearly 40 percent of his body. In addition to the arson charges, Deverso was charged with fourth-degree conspiracy and second-degree  insurance fraud. Swartz was also charged with fourth-degree conspiracy. All the charges are felonies.

 

Swartz and Deverso were taken into custody late Tuesday afternoon without incident and were arraigned in the Town of Clay Court. The case has been turned over to the Onondaga County District Attorney’s Office, who has asked the Court to set bail at $100,000 cash or bond for both defendants. Swartz’s bail was set at $100,000 cash/$250,000 bond. Deverso’s bail was set at $50,000 cash or $100,000 bond Both are scheduled to return to court on Tuesday. The estimated cost of the damage caused by the fire is said to be in excess of $500,000.

 

August 15th, 2012
Firefighter recruitment video features volunteers from Clay, Moyers Corners
Syracuse.com
By Sarah Moses
Syracuse, NY – A recruitment video from the Fireman’s Association of the State of New York features firefighters from Central New York. The 9-minute video, “Fire in Me,” premiered today at the association’s 140th annual convention in Liverpool. The Clay Fire Department was honored this morning at the convention for participating in the video and hosting the video shoot at their department. The video also features firefighters the Moyers Corners Fire Department and members of the Northern Onondaga Volunteer Ambulance. The video was paid for by a Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response grant. FASNY was awarded the $4.2 million federal SAFER grant to fund activities and programs to recruit and retain more than 15,000 volunteer firefighters and EMS personnel across the state.The recruitment video is part of FASNY’s statewide advertising campaign, which includes commercials that highlight volunteer firefighters and their experiences. The “Fire in Me” video and the commercials were filmed at the Clay fire department in May.FASNY’S four-day conference, which is hosted by the Onondaga County Volunteer Firemen’s Association Convention Committee, ends Friday. To learn more about volunteering, visit fireinyou.org.

 

August 22nd, 2012
Teen suffered critical  head injury when struck by car on Oswego Road
By Maren Guse
CNYcentral.com
CLAY -- A 19-year-old is in critical condition after being struck by a car on Oswego Road in Clay .Deputies say a 19-year-old was hit by a car on Oswego Road, at the intersection of Redwing Drive, in the Town of Clay around 9:30 p.m. Tuesday night. Michael Cardwell Jr. was attempting to cross Oswego Road when he walked into the bath of a Ford Focus going north. Deputies say Cardwell did not have the right of way. Deputies say response personnel found Cardwell laying unconscious in the road. He was rushed to Upstate University Hospital with a critical head injury. Deputies say the car was driven by 18-year-old Ashley Weare of Lysander. Weare was not injured. The Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office is continuing the investigation. The Moyers Corners Fire Department and Nova Ambulance Responded.

 

September 17th, 2012
MCFD Explorer Wins Explorer of the Year Award
www.mcfd.org
The Onondaga County Volunteer Fireman's Association has awarded Moyers Corners Fire Department Explorer Brian Alsever with the Explorer of the Year award. This is the first time this award has been given. Brian's parents and girlfriend joined Deputy Chief Zaferakis and MCFD Explorer Post Advisor Dan Stachurski at Barbagallo's restaurant in East Syracuse last Saturday evening. The OCVFA awarded Brian during their annual installation banquet. Brian is currently a freshman at American University in Washington, D.C. majoring in Criminal Justice. Brian flew home from college to accept his award, yet another demonstration of commitment and dedication! Congratulations to Brian for receiving this prestigious award, and thank you so much for everything you have done at the Moyers Corners Fire Department.

 

The following is a letter written by Deputy Chief Zaferakis: 

 

Brian Alsever joined the Moyers Corners Fire Department Explorer Post 209 in January 2009. His ever present attendance at fire department drills and near perfect attendance at explorer post drills helped him to quickly earn the title of Explorer Level 1. The Moyers Corners Fire Department uses a two level explorer program. New explorers start with an Explorer Level 2 rating. After successful completion of a written exam on Standard Operating Procedures, By-laws and equipment locations, as well as practical demonstration of certain firefighting fundamental skills, the explorer is then promoted to Explorer Level 1. These elite explorers are able to ride fire apparatus under a strict set of guidelines to emergency calls. In 2011, Brian attended nearly twenty percent of all fire and rescue calls. This falls within the top percentage of all firefighters and explorers at Moyers Corners Station 1.
 
Explorer Alsever attends almost every department drill on Thursday nights. While the fire department trains at various locations in the district, the explorers from all four firehouses are in attendance to help in any possible way. Depending on the overall attendance, the explorers also get to participate alongside the fire department membership. Brian is always the “go to guy” for organizing, managing, and leading the rather large group of explorers. We currently have fifteen explorers in the post. His leadership skills, positive attitude and commitment are very apparent to the officer corps of the Moyers Corners Fire Department. Training a group of sixty to eighty firefighters is hard enough without adding in the explorer post. Having Brian in attendance allows the fire department to incorporate the explorers to receive hands-on-training alongside some of the best firefighters in the county. The entire explorer post, if not fire department membership, benefit from Brian’s leadership.
 
During the year the fire department is asked to participate in fire prevention activities throughout the district. If the fire prevention detail is not during school hours you can almost guarantee that Brian will be in attendance. He clearly understands that being a firefighter is much more than alarms and training. He is usually the first one to sign-up for fire prevention or work details which sets a high standard for the rest of the explorer post. Brian’s actions speak louder than his words. Leading by example is one trait that he has developed that clearly helps him stand-out from the rest. This dedication and commitment allows him to be a role model and true leader amongst his peers, rather than someone that just delegates duty and responsibility. He has a clear understanding of how to become a well-rounded volunteer firefighter. It is very clear that Brian is extremely altruistic in nature, and that one of his goals in life is to serve his community.
 
Brian has also shown how to prioritize and balance his life, a task that many never figure out. This is demonstrated by his home/school/activity balance. Brian is a member of the National Honor Society. He has always shown that school takes priority over his extra-curricular activities. While being a leader in the fire  department explorer post, he also served as Co-Captain of the Liverpool High School Varsity Boys Swim Team. These leadership and achievement traits extend even further into Brian’s extra-curricular activities.
 
In October of 2011, Brian achieved his Eagle Scout. He started his scouting career in 2004 as a Webelo in Pack 620. He advanced quickly through both Webelo 1 and Webelo 2 program in just one year. He earned the Arrow of Light in April of 2005 and crossed over into Troop 620. Brian served as Patrol Leader of the Panther Patrol and also served as Assistant Senior Patrol Leader for three years. The position Brian has just taken on is Junior Assistant Scoutmaster. He is an Ordeal member in the Order of the Arrow, scouting’s National Honor Society. Brian’s Eagle Scout project consisted of building two picnic tables and scba air bottle  holders for Moyers Corners Station 1. The holders were designed because the current system of storing the bottles was inadequate. To improve the conditions, Brian designed a storage system which was mounted on the walls with covers to ensure a clean environment for the cylinders. Brian also created the designs for the two picnic tables that were built for the patio. Brian, along with fellow scouts and Moyers Corners firefighters and explorers, constructed everything in one day. The total time required to complete the project was greater than 120 hours.
 
One of the rules and regulations that govern the Explorer/Junior Firefighter of the Year Award is a “heroic” action. Such actions were demonstrated by Brian on the afternoon of July 26th, 2011. Brian and some friends were visiting Fair Haven Beach State Park on Lake Ontario. At the end of the day they ended up going to the other side of the channel called West Barrier Bar Beach. The waves were at least six feet high and were crashing over the pier. As they walked out on the pier they noticed a couple little kids being tossed around in the surf. Brian and his friends were just about to leave since Brian needed to be at MCFD Station 1 for the Tuesday night stand-by. But Brian decided they could stay a longer. His instincts kicked in. They went back out on the pier, when suddenly one of the little kids came down the pier yelling for help. One of Brian’s friends went down to the shore, pulled an unconscious woman out of the water and started CPR. Brian then jumped off the pier into the water where a little girl was actively drowning. When he got a hold of her the waves were tossing them around. Brian persevered and managed to swim to a ladder with the little girl safely in his arms above water. When they got the ladder he sent her up first, guiding her as she went up. Just before she got to the top of the ladder, they were both knocked off. He finally got her up and off the ladder following right behind her. The little girl was checked out by one of his friends (an EMT student at the time) and was thankfully alright despite being visibly shaken. Brian then when down the pier to where his other friend was doing CPR on the mother. Brian then called 911 to provide a better location. He then walked up the road to meet with the fire and ambulance crews to show them how to get to the exact location. The rescue crew took over CPR and loaded the women into the ambulance. Unfortunately, the woman was pronounced dead at Oswego Hospital. Brian and three of his friend are certified lifeguards, however none were on duty that day. Brian was able to put his training and skills to the test that afternoon. More importantly, he risked his own life trying to save another. On that day, he was a life-saver, a fire department explorer, a varsity swimmer, and more importantly, a shining example of a community member and human being.
 
In my years with the Moyers Corners Fire Department, I have never met an explorer more deserving of recognition for his actions, commitment and dedication. Brian Alsever is the epitome of a role model. His actions truly speak louder than his words. In fact, he is one of the quieter and reserved explorers I have ever met. However, when duty calls, he knows how to turn the switch. His well roundedness as a fire service explorer is only an indicator of his well roundedness as a young man. Brian is a natural leader as shown in his high school, explorer post, boy scouts and swim team. I’ve also been told that he is an awesome son (Mom and Dad can verify that). His achievements in this short period of time are outstanding. He has a great future ahead of him, and he has certainly paved the way for himself with hard-work, dedication and optimism.

 

September 25th, 2012
Age discrimination suit filed against local fire departments
9wsyr.com
Town of Clay (WSYR-TV) -- An age discrimination lawsuit was filed in Federal court Tuesday naming the Towns of Cicero and Clay and the Village of North Syracuse, as well as four of their fire departments. The case draws back to an incentive program created by New York State lawmakers in 1989, to offer volunteer firefighters a retirement credit based on years of service. Initially, volunteers stopped accruing credits at a department's designated retirement age, between 55-65, even if they kept working. The state amended the law in 2003, allowing firefighters who continued working to continue earning credits.

 

According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the complaint involves approximately 20 firefighters who stopped earning the pension credit before the state amended the law. Moyers Corners Volunteer Fire Chief Edward Wisnowski said the Town of Clay was prepared to recognize lost time for it's members. "Nothing has been refused. We've supplied all the information. They are still active members. They are accruing those points and they should be given what they're due," Wisnowski said.

 

The chief says he was shocked to hear the case had moved forward, naming his department, after an attorney with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission insisted they'd exhausted all efforts to make a deal.

 

"We've been trying to settle this case for almost three years now. We had conversations with the various parties. We have not been able to settle the case and this is the step we felt we needed to take," explained EEOC Senior Trial Attorney Michael O'Brien. Town of Clay Supervisor Damian Ulatowski echos Chief Wisnowski's concerns, and says his office extended offers for a settlement months ago. "We didn't refuse anything. When it was brought to our attention, we agreed to it and we agreed to a settlement of exactly what they were entitled to and set aside money to pay it," Ulatowski told Newschannel 9.

 

If the town still hopes to pursue a settlement to spare taxpayers from an expensive trial, EEOC Attorney Michael O'Brien suggests it is too late. "We're hopeful this gets resolved in federal court," O'Brien said. "We're not interested in settling outside of court." Officials with the EEOC claim the volunteers cannot be denied the benefits under provisions of the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, which is the basis of the suit against the seven parties named. But, Ulatowski reiterates that his office had set aside money to credit the affected firefighters. "They knew. The EEOC knew that we agreed to do this. That's what surprises me. They are going after us now? Why? For a headline? That is absolutely absurd, absolutely absurd," said Clay Town Supervisor Damian Ulatowski. The fire chief, a volunteer and taxpayer in Clay, says his department will prepare for what he believes is an unnecessary court battle. "An egregious spending of taxpayer money that is just, it's uncalled for," said Wisnowski. O'Brien said a telephone conference regarding the case had been scheduled for mid-December.

 

September 28th, 2012
Crews Extricate One on Route 31
www.mcfd.org
Moyers Corners Fire Department was alerted to a motor vehicle collision on Route 31 at Soule Road. Initial reports indicated that one caravan was on it's side. Car 4 [Deputy Chief Zaferakis] called out and was advised that there were MCFD personnel on the scene indicating that extrication would be required. Car 4 arrived an assumed the operations. Several "off duty" MCFD firefigters and EMT's were on the scene tending to the single patient in the caravan. Also assisting were two other EMT's and firefighters from other agencies. Car 2 [Deputy Chief Perkins] arrived and took the command. Engine 22 [Lt. Driscoll] arrived first, stretched a handline and assisted with patient care and rescue work. Rescue 4 [Lt. Watson] arrived and stabilized the caravan using their ZMAG rescue kit. The vehicle's roof was then partially removed and rolled to allow full access to the patient. Total extrication time was twenty minutes. NOVA Ambulance transported the patient to a local hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

 

November 9th, 2012
Vacant House Fire on Wetzel Road
www.mcfd.org
The Moyers Corners Fire Department was alerted to a reported vacant house fire near the intersection of Wetzel Road and Henry Clay Boulevard. Onondaga County Fire Control indicated that a caller could see fire from the rear of the structure. Car 3 [Chief Crispin] arrived first and reported a working fire in a vacant house and that crews would be operating on the exterior of the structure. Car 4 [Chief Zaferakis] arrived right behind Car 3 and assumed the operations. Car 1 [Chief Wisnowski] ran the command with Car 3. Engine 21 [Capt. Hoosock] and Engine 31 [Lt. Montague] arrived simultaneously. Engine 31 brought in the hydrant on Henry Clay Boulevard and stretched a 2.5" handline. Engine 21 stretched a 2" handline from Engine 31. Engine 41 [Lt. Watson] brought in the hydrant approximately 800' down Wetzel Road and fed water to Truck 2 [Lt. Mather]. Their crew stretched an inch and three quarter handline. Ladder 1 [Lt. Schweitzer] positioned on the "A" side of the building with Truck 2. Engine 31 fed Ladder 1's master stream. Crews made an exterior attack using the three handlines followed by elevated master streams by Truck 2 and Ladder 1. Rescue 4 [Lt. Goodson] was assigned to the rapid intervention team. Engine 32 [Capt. Lyons] pumped engine 31's hydrant. Engine 22 [FF Race] pumped Engine 41's hydrant. The fire was knocked down and crews were in service by 6:30am. Great work to all the crews operating on the scene with temperatures in the lower thirties.

 

November 9th, 2012 
Firefighters put out shed fire in Clay 
The Post-Standard 
By Robert Baker Clay, NY -- A wood-burning boiler in a shed supplying heat to a Clay home caught fire this morning and the fire threatened the home immediately next to the shed, a battalion chief with the Moyers Corners Fire Department said. Firefighters were called at 11:42 a.m. to 3514 Bonstead Road. The first calls indicated it was a house fire, Battalion Chief Mike Brown said. Smoke was billowing from the shed, which was located right next to the home, Brown said. Firefighters were able to isolate the fire and prevent it from spreading to the house, Brown said. The fire was caused by a malfunction in the boiler, which supplies hot water for the home's heat, Brown said. "Getting water on to it was the difficult thing," Brown said. More than a half-mile of hose was laid on the street between the nearest fire hydrant, which was on Maider Road, to the fire. Usually, fire hydrants are spaced about 500 feet apart, he said. A pumper truck was set up at the hydrant and a second was placed about a quarter-mile away to keep water pressure up in the long hose line. No one was injured in fighting the fire.

 

November 9th, 2012
Neighbors remember heroism of Clay resident who died in construction accident
The Post-Standard
By Charles Ellis
Oswego, NY -- A town of Clay man who died Friday in a construction accident was remembered for being a great, unselfish neighbor — and for his heroism when he helped save four people in a house fire in 2010. Lateef Haskins, 37, of Bayberry Circle, Clay, died after he fell three stories while installing metal decking on a renovation project at the State University College at Oswego, a school official said. Haskins was working for Solvay Iron Works, a subcontractor on the project, when he fell, said Julie Harrison Blissert, speaking for Oswego State. The accident occurred at about 8:25 a.m. as he was installing metal decking on a new connector area between Park and Wilber halls, Blissert said.

 

The Oswego City Fire Department ambulance took Haskins to Oswego Hospital, where he was pronounced dead about an hour later, Blissert said. On June 18, 2010, Haskins helped Onondaga County sheriff’s deputies save four of his neighbors on Bayberry Circle from a burning home. The Moyers Corner Fire Department later recognized Haskins “for his courageous and selfless actions,” Battalion 1 Fire Chief Steve Zaferakis said at the volunteer fire department’s monthly meeting in August 2010. Suzanne Conley, who lives next to Haskins and his family, remembers that she was home that night when she heard somebody pounding on her door. It was after dark, and she normally wouldn’t answer the door. Instead, she went upstairs and looked out across the street and saw their neighbor’s house on fire. “We went out and got my ladder out of my garage, and then he helped people get out of the top floor,” Conley said. Conley said she didn’t socialize with Haskins and his family, but that he “was just a good neighbor. . . . He always said, ‘let me help you.”

 

Catherine Poon will always be grateful to Haskins, because he helped save her life, along with her son, 16, daughter, 21, and niece, 20. “I heard this news (of Haskins’ death) and I am very sad,” Poon said. “He was a very good guy.” In an interview with The Post-Standard the day after the fire, Haskins described how he had just come home from a late softball game. He was thinking about taking a shower, but settled in to watch a little ESPN first. Faintly, he heard Catherine Poon’s son, Matthew, his neighbor, across the street. “He was yelling, ‘Help, fire!’¤” Haskins said. Haskins called to his wife to dial 911. He sprinted across the street dialing the number on his cell phone, too. Before he could find a ladder, he grabbed a hose to wet down the house. That didn’t help. “Matt was saying it was hot and ‘help,’¤” Haskins said. “I didn’t want to leave him. You could see flames coming from the roof.” As he was setting up the ladder, Onondaga County Sheriff’s deputies arrived.

 

Poon said in the earlier interview that she didn’t know who grabbed her and helped her down the ladder to safety. “I’m grateful. They saved my whole family,” she said. “My neighbor was very brave.” “I would want somebody to do the same if my family was in that situation,” Haskins said. In the two years since his heroic act, Poon and Conley said they saw him around the neighborhood, and he would frequently offer to help with chores. Poon’s husband died in 2008, and she appreciated it when Haskins helped carry a large TV into her house, fixed a lock on her door and — most importantly — finished work on her deck and patio when the original worker she hired stopped showing up. “I asked him to give me a bill so I could pay him for the work, and he wouldn’t take any money,” Poon said. University Police are investigating Haskins’ death, and the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration has been notified, said Blissert of Oswego State. The university Friday suspended construction on the project pending a safety review, Blissert said. “Given the seriousness of this accident, we feel it is worth taking a timeout to review, not only this incident and project, but all the construction work going on at our college,” Deborah F. Stanley, Oswego State president, said in a prepared statement. “We extend our deep condolences to his family and his co-workers,” Stanley said.

 

Solvay Iron Works President Kelly Ormsby said he couldn’t speak about the accident. OSHA and law enforcement are investigating the accident, even as the company does its own investigation, he said. “It’s still being investigated and I can’t talk about it,” Ormsby said. Ormsby offered his condolences to the family. “We’re praying for them,” he said. “It’s a terrible tragedy. It’s an absolute tragedy. He was a very good guy,” Ormsby said. Major projects under way on the Oswego campus include construction of a new science complex and renovation of Park, Wilber and Sheldon halls, according to the college. Haskins is survived by his wife, Jessica, and three children at home. “I would see him after work always playing with his kids in the front yard,” Poon said.

 

Side Note: Approximately 12 members from the MCFD paid their respects to Mr. Haskins at his funeral service.

 

November 21st, 2012
Signal 99 on Wetzel Road at Henry Clay Boulevard
www.mcfd.org
Moyers Corners was alerted to a structure fire on Wetzel Road at the intersection of Henry Clay Boulevard. A MCFD firefighter passing the scene indicated there was fire from the front of the structure. Car 3 [Chief Crispin] called out first followed by Battalion 2 [Chief Brown]. Battalion 2 arrived first with heavy fire from the front of the house. He then struck a Signal 99. Due to the volume of fire showing, exterior operations were ordered. Battalion 2 took the command while Car 3 covered the operations. Engine 31 [Capt. Lyons] was first due and brought in the hydrant on Henry Clay Boulevard. Their crew then stretched a two and a half inch handline and started fire attack from the exterior. Engine 21 [Lt. Farrance] brought in the hydrant on Wetzel Road which crossed the CSX rail line. The crew from Engine 21 attacked the fire with a two inch handline. Truck 2 [Lt. Mather] positioned on the "A" side. Engine 41 [Lt. Goodson] pumped Engine 21's hydrant on Wetzel Road. The crew from Engine 41 attacked the fire with a two inch handline. Command then notified Fire Control that the CSX line would need to shut down. North Syracuse Engine 6 arrived and assisted with fire attack. North Syracuse Car 1 [Chief Brennan] assisted on the scene along with Liverpool Car 1 [Chief Smith]. Rescue 4 [Capt. Zeppetello] assisted with fire attack and overhaul. Engine 32 [FF S. Wisely] pumped Engine 31's hydrant on Henry Clay Boulevard. Ladder 1 [Capt. Klem] positioned on the "B" side of the structure. Mattydale Rescue 1 [Capt. Smith] was the Rapid Intervention Team. Crews were able to knock down the bulk of the fire within 20 minutes. After the exterior attack using handline, Truck 2 vented the roof while Ladder 1 worked their master stream. MCFD Car 1 [Chief Wisnowski], Car 4 [Chief Zaferakis] and Battalion 1 [Chief Bailey] were also present along with Squad 3 and 4. 

 

This working fire was directly across the street from the vacant house fire a week prior. Because of the location, Moyers Corners was well prepared for all water supply issues faced in the area.  A well coordinated effort aided in the successful operation. Great work to everyone working on the scene. Thank you to Liverpool, Belgium Cold Springs , Hinsdale and Clay for providing coverage during the operation. One resident was transported to a local hospital via NOVA Ambulance. County Fire Investigators and Emergency Management members were also on the scene. 

 

Woman slightly injured in house fire on Wetzel Road in Clay
The Post-Standard
By Charles Ellis
Clay, N.Y. -- One woman was taken to an area hospital with injuries not believed to be life threatening after she escaped from a house fire tonight on Wetzel Road in the town of Clay.Ed Wisnowski, chief of the Moyers Corners Fire Department, said the woman was out of the two-family house when firefighters arrived at 4724 Wetzel Road, at the corner of Henry Clay Boulevard. The fire was called in at 5:22 p.m. The injured resident, who lived on the first floor, was identified as Tammy Babb, 41, said Onondaga County sheriff's Detective Jon Seeber. She was taken to St. Joseph's Hospital and treated for smoke inhalation. The other resident of the first floor was not home at the time of the fire, Seeber said. The unknown number of residents of the top floor weren't home at the time of the fire, Wisnowski said.All the residents are renters, Seeber said. When firefighters arrived, flames were coming out of the front door and the front picture window, he said. Firefighters needed about 17 minutes to get the blaze under control, Wisnowski said. "It looks like it could be a possible total loss," Wisnowski said. "You can see straight through the walls to the back of the house." The Red Cross was at the scene to help the residents. The fire appears to have started in the kitchen, Seeber said. The cause of the fire is under investigation. No firefighters were hurt, Wisnowski said. Along with Moyers Corners, crews from the Liverpool, North Syracuse and Mattydale fire departments were at the scene.

 

 

 

November 29th, 2012
Busy Evening for Moyers Corners
www.mcfd.org
Just as the Station 2 duty crew was finishing dinner at approximately 8:15 p.m., Moyers Corners Stations 2 and 4 were alerted to a motor vehicle collision on Candlelight Lane. Station 2’s duty crew responded within a minute from dispatch. Engine 21 [Lt. Farrance] arrived to find two vehicles heavily damaged.  Engine 21’s crew quickly assessed the occupants of the vehicles and mitigated the hazards. Car 3 [Chief Crispin] arrived and took command. A second ambulance was called.  Rescue 4 [F/F Whitmore] was advised that they would need to “pop” adriver’s door. Car 1 [Chief Wisnowski] also responded. 

    Nearly an hour after the MVC, Moyers Corners was dispatched to a possible structure fire at the Liverpool Recycling Center located at 4550 Steelway Blvd South. Cars 1, 3, and Battalion 1 [Chief Bailey] responded. Engine 21 [Lt. Farrance] was on scene within three minutes and established a water supply on the “C” side of the large industrial warehouse. Engine 21’s crew encountered a light smoke condition and the odor of burning paper. Engine 41 [F/F Stevens] secured a secondary water supply while Truck 2 [F/F Race] took placement with Engine 21 on the “C” side.  Other units responding to the alarm were Engine 31, Rescue 3, Engine 11, Rescue 4 and Ladder 1. While Engine 21 and Truck 2 were still on the scene, Moyers Corners was alerted to another possible structure fire, this time at 7651 Morgan Road.  Engine 41 [F/F Stevens] returning to quarters from the previous alarm arrived within minutes of the dispatch, with Cars 1 and 3. Engine 31 [Lt. Montague] and Rescue 4 [ Lt. Goodson] quickly mitigated an electrical wiring problem. Units were in-service within 20 minutes.

 

    At 11:15, Moyers Corners was again dispatched to a reported Structure Fire at 4550 Steelway Blvd South. Battalion 1 and Car 3 called out immediately followed again by Engine 21 [Lt. Farrance] and Truck 2 [Lt. Mather]. Units arrived and took the same positions as the previous alarm. There was no smoke condition, only a burning odor. Both interior crews using thermal imaging cameras confirmed that there was no active fire. All units were in service within 20 minutes. As the Duty crew was just drifting off to sleep, Stations 2 and 4 were activated at 2:11 on a second alarm fire in Baldwinsville. Rescue 4 [Lt. Watson] and Truck 2 [Lt. Mather] responded. They arrived to assist the large operation underway at the Confier Drive Apartments. Upon arriving Rescue 4 [Lt. Watson] and his crew assisted in an extensive salvage operation in adjoining apartments in an attempt to help save the owners belongings. Truck 2 [Lt. Mather] and his crew were sent to the fire apartment to handle the extensive overhaul and extinguishing hot spots. Truck 2 spent nearly an hour pulling ceilings, walls and extinguishing hot spots. Truck 2 was in service by 4:30.

 

    As the duty crew was just finishing returning the Truck to service, Station 2 and 3 were alerted at 5:40 to a fire alarm activation on Steelway Blvd. Engine 21 [ Lt. Farrance] arrived to find the fire alarm had been accidently set off by a worker, and there was no active fire. In all, Moyers Corners Fire Department handled three reported structure fires, one 2 alarm fire in Baldwinsville, a motor vehicle collison and a fire alarm activation.

 

December 14th, 2012
Ambulances and heavy rescue vehicles heading to scene of Schroeppel crash
Syracuse.com
By Charley Hannagan
Schroeppel, NY – Three ambulances and two heavy rescue vehicles have been called to the scene of a crash into a swamp off County Route 12 in Schroeppel, an Oswego County 911 dispatcher said. The crash was reported at 2:42 p.m. in the swamp off County Route 12 between Route 57A and Peter Scott Road, the dispatchers said. It’s not known how many vehicles are involved. New York State police and Oswego County Sheriff’s deputies are on the way to the scene. There was a report that two people were trapped in the vehicle, the dispatcher said. The Phoenix, Moyers Corners and Caughdenoy fire departments were called to the scene, as was Menter Ambulance. 

 

Side Note: MCFD Rescue 4 was on the scene and led the heavy extrication efforts.

 

December 20th, 2012
Residential Fire on Route 57
www.mcfd.org
     Moyers Corners Fire Department was alerted to a residential structure fire located on Oswego Road near Admiral Drive in the station two response area. Car 3 [Chief Crispin] arrived within minutes to find smoke showing. Initial reports from the Onondaga County 911 Center indicated a vehicle was in the driveway with a handicap placard and someone was possibly still inside the residence. Battalion 1 [Chief Bailey] arrived next. Chief Crispin entered the structure, lifted the elderly resident up and carried him to the outside of the residence. Chief Crispin was also able to remove the resident's dog. Car 4 [Chief Zaferakis] established the incident command.  Engine-21 [Lt. Farrance] and Truck-2 [FF Leeper], which were staffed for the overnight, arrived and set up for fire attack and ventilation respectively. Battalion 1 covered interior operations on the second floor. Engine 41 [Lt. Goodson] was the second due engine. They pumped Engine 21's hydrant and stretched the back-up line. Rescue 4 [FF Stevens] assisted with laddering, overhaul and salvage on the first floor. Ladder 1 [Capt. Klem] was the Rapid Intervention Team. Engine 11 [Lt. Scweitzer] relieved the interior attack crews and completed overhaul on the second floor. Engine 31 [Lt. Montague] brought in a hydrant near Blackberry Road and staged at the manpower post. Rescue 3 [Capt. Lyons] also staffed and coordinated the manpower post. 
      The quick reponse by all MCFD crews brought the resident to safety while containing the fire to the bedroom and adjacent hallway on the second floor. The fire was knocked down within 12 minutes. The elderly occupant was turned over to NOVA Ambulance for a minor injury and remained on the scene aided by the comfort of his neighbors on Admiral Drive. Onondaga County Fire Investigators were called to the scene to determine the cause of the fire.  All companies in service by 2200 hours. Great job to all Moyers Corners crews operating on the Signal 98 fire.

 

December 22nd, 2012
Route 481 reopened after Schroeppel crash
Syracuse.com
By Charley Hannagan
Schroeppel, NY –route 481 has reopened after a tractor trailer jacknifed at exit 13 earlier today. Emergency crews were called out at 10:44 a.m. on a report of a jacknifed tractor trailer leaking fuel on Route 481 north at exit 13, an Oswego County 911 dispatcher said. Radio reports said Route 481 northbound at Route 31 was closed at 11:45 a.m. The jackknifed tractor trailer was leaking fuel, the dispatcher said. An hazmat team were called to the scene, as well as the Phoenix and Moyers Corners fire departments. 

 

 

 

2013
Chief John Perkins
1st Deputy Chief: Frank Crispin
2nd Deputy Chief: Steve RAce
3rd Deputy Chief: Steve Zaferakis
 Battalion 1 Chief: Colin Bailey
Battalion 2 Chief Mike G. Brown

 

Station 1 Captain Pete Klem 
Station 2 Captain Michael Hoosock
Station 3 Captain Mitch Goldberg
Station 4 Captain Jered Zeppetello

 

Station 1 Lieutenants: Steve Schweitzer, Kevin Delong
Station 2 Lieutenants: Bryan Mather, Chris Myers, Tom Farrance
Station 3 Lieutenants: Dominick Daloia, Joe Montague
Station 4 Lieutenants: Derek Watson, Ed Goodson

 

Executive Board:
President Bud Neuman
Vice President Bob Driscoll
Treasurer Bob Swahn, Assistant Treasurer Geoff Maes
Secretary Steve Leeper,  Assistant Treasurer Lauren Nichols
Fire Police:  Captain Gary Johnson, Lieutenants Jim Michel, Randy Frost

 

Bunk Ins:  Billy McSweeney, Phillip Clark, Troy Barrett, Ryan Granger, Ben Treptow, Robert Petit

 

 

 

Scholarship Winners:

 

January 2nd, 2013
E11 Mutual Aid to Phoenix for House Fire
www.mcfd.org
MCFD Engine 11 (Lt. Delong) was activated mutual aid to Phoenix FD for a possible house fire.  Phoenix FD Car 2 arrived and reported a two story, wood frame structure with nothing showing from the exterior. He then entered the structure and found heavy smoke on the second floor side A apartment.  MCFD Engine 11 stretched a handline to the second floor. The crew was met with heavy smoke.  MCFD E11 entered a bedroom on Side A and extinguished a moderate body of fire along the Side D wall.  Engine 11 and a crew from PFD ensured no extension.  There were no injures to occupants or the firefighters on scene. Engine 11 operated completely off tank water due to hydrant being covered by snow and later reported frozen. By the time the hydrant was cleared out, the fire was out. Units picked up and returned to service.

 

February 13th, 2013
Structure Fire on Joewodd Drive
www.mcfd.org
Moyers Corners was alerted to a residential structure fire on Joewood Drive in the Station 4 response area. Initial reports indicated that four residents may be trapped on the second floor.
 Car 4 [Chief S. Zaferakis] arrived within a minute of dispatch with heavy fire and struck the "Signal 99". Car 2 [Chief Crispin] arrived second followed by Battalion 1 [Chief Bailey]. Battalion 1 had the command while Car 3 took operations and Car 4 handled the interior assignment. After a complete size-up of the split level home, Car 4 advised that there was heavy fire on all floors of the residence. Engine 41 [FF M. Zaferakis] was first due. Because of vehicles in the roadway, they were not able to establish a hydrant. The Engine 41 crew stretched two handlines and prepared for fire attack. Battalion 2 [Chief Brown] was the safety officer while Car 3 [Chief Race] assisted. Rescue 4 [Lt. Goodson] split their crew and stretched a third handline to the rear of the structure. Truck 2 [Lt. Farrance] positioned in front of the structure and threw ground ladders. Engine 21 [FF D. Izzo] and Engine 11 established a continuous water supply to Engine 41 and assisted with fire attack. Ladder 1 [Lt. Schweitzer], Engine 31 [FF Lyons], Engine 11 and the MCFD Fire Police were also on scene assisting. A Rapid Intervention Team from Mattydale FD responded and split their crew to the front and rear of the structure.  

 

Initial crews made an interior attack but were subsequently removed as conditions were deteriorating. The roof had also collapsed on half of the structure. The fire was knocked down within 45 minutes. NOVA ambulance was on the scene and transported a civilian to an area hospital. The quick actions of a neighbor and his son allowed for three people to escape unharmed from the second floor via a ladder. Representative from Emergency Management were on the scene to determine the cause and origin. All units were in service by 2 a.m.

 

Fire engulfs Clay house
Syracuse.com
By Ken Sturtz
lay, NY-- A fire ripped through a house in the town of Clay Wednesday night, but no serious injuries were reported. The 9:21 p.m. fire on Joewood Drive was fully involved when firefighters arrived, Moyers Corners Fire Chief John Perkins said. Firefighters ran hose for water more than a hundred yards to reach the nearest hydrant. Four renters living in the house made it out safely, Sgt. Craig Dykes said. One woman cut her hand getting out and three people suffered smoke inhalation, he said, but no one was taken to the hospital. Several pets were still unaccounted for, Dykes said. Several departments, including fire companies from Moyers Corners and Mattydale responded to the fire. Fire investigators are working to determine what started the fire.