Grand Island Fire Company, Inc. Website
To contact the Fire Company Dial 773-4334
Administrative Officers 2010: President Tammy Jo Gorman, Vice President Michael Anderson, Secretary Laurie Berry, Treasurer Dale Mock, Financial Secretary Anthony Mastantuono, Line Secretary Phillip Mastantuono and Sgt.-at-Arms David Khreis.
Board of Directors 2010: Chairman Stephen M. Stouter, Vice Chairman Paul D. Gorman, Secretary Raymond Pauley, Mark T. Kowzan, Donald Portik, Michael D. Braun, David C. Tolejko
Driver Hurt in Collision With Tree - July 2010
GIFC firefighters stabilize Burgler vehicle while driver receives treatment for minor injuries Click photo for larger view
By Ray Pauley - GIFC Public Information Officer
Grand Island Fire Company rescue personnel responded at 3:25 p.m. Thursday, July 15 to an MVA on Whitehaven near Stony Point roads. Fire Chief Greg Butcher reports that Thomas Burgler, 57, of Grand Island lost control of his vehicle which left the roadway and struck a large pine tree in front of 1421 Whitehaven Road.Burgler was treated by GIFC medics for non life threatening injuries and transported to ECMC for further medical evaluation.
Moments earlier, Burgler reportedly forced another auto off the road and into a drainage ditch culvert at Whitehaven and East River roads. That driver, Thomas Plandowski of Lackawanna, NY, claimed no injuries.
All GIFC units returned in service at 3:57 p.m.
Mesmer Aviation Event Passes With "Flying" Colors - July 2010
(left) Row of planes form backdrop for Island businessman Bob Mesmer
(center) Several visitors inspect unusual pontoon aircraft
(right) GIFC Lt. Chris Russell and Engine #2 are visited by Justin (top), Katelyn, Trevor and their mom, Kelly Palamuso Click photos for larger view
By Ray Pauley - GIFC Public Information Officer
Bob Mesmer was joined by over one hundred friends, neighbors, and members of Chapter 46 of the EAA (Experimental Aircraft Assoc.) for a Thursday evening of fun, food and thrills at his Love Road residence and airfield.In addition to sixteen single engine planes which landed at regular intervals, much to the delight of onlookers, the U. S. Border Patrol, Mercy Flight, and the Grand Island Fire Company's Engine #2 and Rescue 7-2 with crews also attended. Another highlight was a special skydiving exhibition by four members of the Wilson, N.Y. based group.
Those who are interested in membership information can contact Local Chapter 46 Secretary Pat Pedersen at 240 Hamlin Ave., East Aurora, NY 14052 or visit their website at www.eaa46.org. You don't have to be a pilot to join EAA, "you just have to love aviation," those in attendance were reminded.
Falls Vehicle Heavily Damaged In I-190 Fire - July 2010
By Ray Pauley - GIFC Public Information Officer
Grand Island firefighters responded shortly after 8:30 a.m. Thursday, July 8, 2010 to a vehicle fire in the southbound lane of the I-190. According to Fire Chief Greg Butcher, the driver, Kristen Felker of Niagara Falls heard a loud "pop" near the North Bridge toll barrier and shortly thereafter pulled over onto the shoulder when smoke began billowing into her VW 'beetle.' She then used her cell phone to contact 911 and her call for help was relayed from CPS (Central Police Services) in Buffalo to the GIFC Dispatch Center.
Her vehicle was "fully involved" when GIFC firefighters and Engine #4 arrived on location. Although extinguished within minutes, the fire caused extensive damage estimated at $5000 and was attributed to mechanical failure.
Fire officials point out that fire and EMS emergencies that are reported by cell phone will be picked up by the nearest cell tower when 911 is dialed. Such calls by Grand Islanders will usually be sent to CPS first and then relayed, as in this case, unless 773-7508 is called for a direct connection with the GIFC. This will virtually eliminate any possible delay in the dispatching of emergency personnel for those cell phone callers in need. All other requests should be made (residential, business, etc.) through the normal 911 emergency number.
Mercy Flight Called In For Island MVA Victim - July 2010
By Ray Pauley - GIFC Public Information Officer
Grand Island Fire Chief Greg Butcher reports that firefighter/medics handled ten emergency incidents between 4 p.m. July 4th and 6 a.m. July 5th, which included three MVAs.
The most serious incident involved a 1:30 a.m. July 5th MVA on East River Road near Turner's Port of Call restaurant where a vehicle failed to negotiate a sharp curve, traveled down a steep embankment, and collided with a tree, according to Chief Butcher. The driver, Donald Holdoway, 24, of Grand Island, and passenger, Michael Vallina, 24, of West Seneca, were extricated from the heavily damaged auto and treated by GIFC medics for critical injuries. Holdoway was transported to ECMC by ambulance for further medical attention and Vallina was transported to ECMC by Mercy Flight in order to expedite life saving treatment.
All GIFC units returned in service at 2:41 as.m. according to Chief Butcher.
Island Roadway Closed by High Pressure Gas Line Break - June 2010
(left) Coffey MVA victim being extricated from damaged vehicle by GIFC Rescue Personnel
(right) National Grid drilling equipment and GIFC personnel at scene of major gas line break
Click photo for larger view
By Ray Pauley - GIFC Public Information Officer
Grand Island Firefighters responded shortly after 6 p.m. Tuesday, June 8 to a report of a gas pipeline rupture in the vicinity of 1841 Staley Road.
Fire Chief Greg Butcher confirmed that a National Grid repair crew was in the process of replacing a utility pole that had been damaged in an earlier MVA, when their drilling machine struck and punctured a high pressure gas main. Earlier in the day at 11:50 a.m., Cassandra Coffee, 20, of Grand Island lost control of her vehicle, which left the roadway and sheared off a pole. She was extricated by GIFC rescue personnel, stabilized, and transported to Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital for further medical treatment.
As a result of the highly explosive hazard, Staley Road was closed down between Grand Island Blvd. and Baseline Road pending gas line repairs which are estimated to take about eight hours, according to Chief Butcher.
Driver Escapes Injury in Island MVA - May 2010
Shores upended vehicle that missed telegraph pole by inches
Click photo for larger view
By Ray Pauley - GIFC Public Information Officer
GIFC Rescue Personnel responded shortly before 4 p.m. Tuesday, May 25 to a reported "vehicle rollover" on Bedell Road.
Megan Shores, 23, of the City of Tonawanda reportedly lost control of her auto (pickup truck) that careened off the roadway and over a guardrail, landing on its side. GIFC Deputy Chief Kevin Koch stated that she was evaluated at the scene by GIFC Medics but denied injuries and declined hospitalization.
Although this particular driver was very fortunate to avoid injury, Fire officials stressed that even a few seconds of inattention while operating a vehicle can easily lead to more serious consequences. Everyone is urged to use sensible defensive driving skills in order to insure road safety for all.
GIFC units returned in service at 4:13 p.m.
A Solemn Promise - "Anytime, Anywhere, We'll be There" - May 2010
EMS Capt. Bob Cleveland receives a heartfelt thank you from Town Supervisor McMahon for the GIFC's outstanding EMS performance within the community.
Click photo for larger view
By Ray Pauley - GIFC Public Information Officer
The American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP), kicked off the 37th annual EMS week on May 16 with national events revolving around the theme, "Any time, Anywhere, We'll Be There." Child Safety and Injury Prevention Day was celebrated on May 19 and the National EMS Memorial Service is scheduled for June 26 in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
During a special EMS appreciation event of May 21, organized by EMS Capt. Bob Cleveland at GIFC Fire Headquarters, Town Supervisor Peter McMahon echoed the sentiments of ACEP President Angela Gardner MD, who stated that "people know that when they call 911, they'll get help, no matter what their circumstance." Over 40 EMS providers were praised for their untiring dedication to the community at this informal get-together. Supervisor McMahon reminded them that hardly a day goes by that he doesn't hear from a citizen how their life has been touched in a positive way by the fighters and medics of the GIFC. He urged those in attendance to always strive to keep their lifesaving goals high and attainable.
Thanks again to all those GIFC volunteers who bring emergency room care directly to the scene of any BLS/ALS incident.
Island Family Flees Smokey Blaze - May 2010
By Ray Pauley - GIFC Public Information Officer
At 11:05 p.m. on Thursday, May 20th, Grand Island firefighters responded to a reported “structure fire” at the Elsie Lane residence of Mr. and Mrs. David Clayton.
Chief Greg Butcher reports that a smoke alarm alerted the parents to a fire hazard shortly before 11:00 p.m. They immediately rushed upstairs to the second floor where their 8- and 13-year-old daughters were asleep in a smoke filled room. After the girls were awakened and safely removed, David used a fire extinguisher and some water to douse a burning portable DVD player, which was being charged.
Firefighters ventilated the building while paramedics treated Mr. Clayton for smoke inhalation, although he declined hospitalization. All other family members were uninjured.
Grand Island fire officials agreed the working smoke detectors and swift action by everyone involved brought this emergency incident to a successful conclusion. They pointed out that prolonged exposure to burning plastics, etc. could have been extremely life threatening, due to the production of toxic gasses, such as hydrogen cyanide. It is therefore of critical importance that occupants evacuate the premises without delay so that such danger is eliminated, they stressed.
All Fire Company units returned to service at 11:48 p.m. after it was determined that $200.00 damage was limited to the DVD player. There was no extension of the fire to surrounding areas and the building was ventilated of smoke residue.
Island Firefighters Celebrate 72 Years of Community Service - May 2010
President Gorman looks on as Bob Cleveland, Stephen Stouter, and Kevin Koch display their special 'life membership' awards.
Click photo for larger view
By Ray Pauley - GIFC Public Information Officer
President Tammy Gorman welcomed firefighters, spouses, town officials and special guest to share in the 72nd anniversary celebration of the Grand Island Fire Company, which took place Saturday, May 15 at Fire Headquarters.
She also introduced the 2010 'rookie' class of new members: Jeremiah Anderson, Jordain Benoit, Robert Cieri, Galen Dell, Keith Doyle, Scott McCormick, Richard Schmitz and Edith Thompson. Good luck to these aspiring firefighters and medics.
Fire Chief Greg Butcher proudly presented special 20-year 'Life Memberships' to Deputy Chief Kevin Koch, Board Chairman Stephen Stouter, and EMS Capt. Bob Cleveland. He noted that these exceptional individuals have held significant leadership positions up to this unique milestone in the volunteer fire service. Additional 'years of service' awards reflect equally notable long term individual commitment to the overall success of the GIFC.
Meanwhile, Board Chairman Stouter gave a 'year in review' report highlighting current GIFC accomplishments, including: the 2010 replacement of an aging 21-year-old engine with a new and improved Crimson pumper; recertification of EMS personnel, expansion of in house training, as well as advancement of GIFC's paramedic program; successful recruitment of eight new members; and further development of health and fitness facilities for all members. In conclusion, Stouter promised that these highly trained professionals would continue to provide the first rate fire and EMS protection that the community ahs become accustomed to.
Five Years of Service - Ms. Laurie Berry, Mr. David Castiglia, Mr. Thomas Dewey, Mr. Anthony C. Mastantuono, Mr. Dale Mock, Mr. Jessie Petit, Mr. Peter Sukmanowski
Ten Years of Service - Mr. Michael Braun, Mr. Kerry Lanthier
Fifteen Years of Service - Dr. Barbara Stouter
25 Years of Service - Mr. Donald Portik, Dr. Roger Kaiser
30 Years of Service - Mr. Steven Morgan
35 Years of Service - Dr. Edward Rayhill
45 Years of Service - Mr. Robert Meyer
50 Years of Service - Mr. LeRoy Franklin
65 Years of Service - Mr.Robert Kingston, Mrs.Marylou Kohlhagen
Weekend Storm Conditons Intensify Firefighter Workload - May 2010
By Ray Pauley - GIFC Public Information Officer
Grand Island Fire Chief Greg Butcher reports that firefighters and paramedics were called out fifteen times during a three-day period from May 6 through May 8. Nine incidents were a direct result of sudden storm conditions which included peak wind gusts of 62 MPH according to the National Weather Bureau.
At 10:31 a.m. May 6, firefighters responded to a vehicle gasoline leak on Timberlink Drive and eliminated the hazard. At 11:43 a.m. EMS personnel treated a 62-year-old Whitehaven Road resident for breathing difficulties. At 9:49 a.m. firefighters were called to the vicinity of 1913 Marjorie Dr. to investigate the source of a major power outage affecting a large portion of the town, south of Love Road. National Grid quickly identified the problem and restored power by 10:18 p.m. At 11:44 p.m. a 64-year-old Wallace Drive resident was treated for food poisoning.
At 7:47 a.m. on May 7, a 77-year-old Island resident was treated by GIFC medics when he suddenly collapsed on Grand Island Blvd. near the Getty service station. At 9:31 p.m. a Sandy Beach homeowner was assisted in controlling a water leak. At 9:41 p.m. firefighters responded to a Whitehaven Road alarm of fire which was found to be accidental.
On May 8, several hundred north end residents lost power due to a series of wind damaged trees and downed power lines. At 12:50 a.m. a damaged light pole was referred to National Grid. At 10:50 a.m. a standby crew reported to Beaver Island Park while a child car seat safety check was conducted by the NYSP. At 12:18 p.m. GIFC Fire Police were placed on standby at Baseline and Bedell roads for traffic control due to signal failure. At 2:57 p.m. firefighters responded to a hazardous situation on Love Road where a tree had fallen on wires and National Grid was notified. At 3:43 p.m. traffic was shut down on East River between Harvey and Staley roads due to downed primary lines. At 4:21 p.m. a similar response was made to Stony Point near Huth where wires were down, and a National Grid repair crew arrived at 6:30 p.m. At 5:21 p.m. firefighters responded to an oven fire on Oak Harbor Road and there was no extension or damage. Finally, at 9:07 p.m. firefighters responded to a chimney fire on East River Road and determined that it had been successfully extinguished by the occupant, with no apparent damage. damage.
All in all, this was a very busy weekend for your volunteers, Chief Butcher said.
"911 - What is the Nature, Location of Your Emergency?" - April 2010
Fire Chief Greg Butcher looks on as Communications Supervisor Steve Morgan explains 911 dispatching operations to seven-year-old Taylor (Dawidowicz) and her mother.
Click photo for larger view
By Ray Pauley - GIFC Public Information Officer
Every year an estimated 240 million 911 calls for assistance are made in the U. S. Dispatchers who provide the vital link between callers and responders were recently recognized for their invaluable contributions during National Public Safety Telecommunications Week from April 11-17.
Meanwhile, April 2010 has been designated 911 Education Month during which industry, public safety, and education leaders work together to teach youngsters when, why, and how to dial 911. Would your child know what to do if faced with a life threatening emergency situation?
Mari Ann Rolend knows the answer to this critical question because her seven-year-old daughter, Taylor, was able to summon 911 emergency EMS assistance when she fell unconscious this past March 26th. Taylor was prepared because her mother had taken the time to show her how to properly use her cell phone for just such an occasion. Was this a worthwhile investment of time and effort - "you bet" was the emphatic response.
This "little hero" has taught us a valuable lesson - be prepared to use 911 in any fire or EMS emergency. Grand Island Fire Company Communications Supervisor Steve Morgan stresses that knowing what to do and providing the proper information will make it that much easier for 911 dispatchers to do their job in sending help where and when it is needed most.
Island Apartment Complex Fire Results In Occupant Fatality - April 2010
Heavily damaged interior of Apt. 12 on third floor of Country Glen complex
Click photos for larger view
By Ray Pauley - GIFC Public Information Officer
Grand Island firefighters responded shortly after 10 p.m. to an "alarm of fire" at the Country Glen apartments, 2145 Bedell Road, which had been called in by two building tenants who discovered smoke in the hallways.
GIFC Deputy Chief Kevin Koch, Engines #2, 3, 5, LT6, Heavy Rescue 1, and Rescue 7 arrived on location within three to five minutes and observed smoke and flames coming from a third floor apartment. Interior fire suppression crews confined the fire to the area of origin and a victim was extricataed from the heavily damaged apartment. The 60-year-old occupant, Miriam Notaro, was unresponsive and did not survive, according to Deputy Chief Koch.
Meanwhile, the City of Tonawanda Fire Department remained on mutual aid standby at GIFC headquarters during firefighting operations.
One other tenant was treated for smoke inhalation but not hospitalized. Two other tenants were displaced by water damage to their living quarters and were to be assisted by the American Red Cross. There were no firefighter injuries.
Total damage was estimated at $50,000 to the building and $30,000 to the contents. GIFC Fire Investigator Chuck Berlinger and his ECSD counterparts have not yet determined the exact cause of the blaze.
All firefighting units returned in service at 12:57 a.m. on April 23.
Seven-Year-Old Summons Help During Family Emergency - March 2010
Fire Chief Greg Butcher looks on as Communications Supervisor Steve Morgan explains 911 dispatching operations to seven-year-old Taylor (Dawidowicz) and her mother.
Click photo for larger view
By Ray Pauley - GIFC Public Information Officer
Grand Island Fire Company Rescue Personnel responded shortly before 2 p.m. Friday, March 26 to a report of an "unconscious woman" on East River Road (residence) near Wallace Drive. Fire Chief Greg Butcher confirmed that the victim's seven-year-old daughter had called the GIFC 911 dispatcher to seek help for her mother who had become ill and "passed out on the floor." Mary Rolend, 25, regained consciousness upon the arrival of GIFC Paramedics who treated her for non critical injuries sustained in her fall. She was then transported to Kenmore Mercy Hospital for additional medical attention.
Chief Butcher and Dispatcher Rose Krause praised the seven-year-old for being "cool, calm and collected" in providing important information during this extremely difficult ordeal.
All GIFC units returned in service at 2:30 p.m. according to Chief Butcher.
Island Cyclist Injured In One Vehicle MVA - March 2010
By Ray Pauley - GIFC Public Information Officer
Grand Island Fire Company Rescue Personnel responded shortly before 2 p.m. on Friday, March 19, 2010 to a one vehicle MVA on Marilyn Drive near the intersection of Broadway. Patrick Bonaccorso, 32, of Grand Island reportedly exited his driveway while operating a motorcycle, lost control on some loose gravel, and crashed to the roadway, according to Fire Chief Greg Butcher. He was treated by GIFC Medics for a non- critical injury of the lower extremity, stabilized, and transported to the ECMC for further medical attention. All GIFC units returned in service at 2:17 p.m. stated Chief Butcher.
Island MVA Disrupts Mail Delivery - March 2010
By Ray Pauley - GIFC Public Information Officer
Grand Island Fire Company Rescue Personnel responded at 1:40 p.m. Saturday, March 13 to a multi-car MVA, which occurred in front of 783 West River Road, according to Fire Chief Greg Butcher.
Ajit Trivikram, 70, of Grand Island,reportedly "fell asleep" at the wheel and collided with a parked car and the rear end of a U. S. Postal Service truck, driven by Alan Bojarski, 60, of North Tonawanda, who was on his regular delivery route. The tremendous force of impact sent the mail truck careening off the roadway and approximately 60 feet across a driveway, two lawns and up against the neighbor's front porch. Bojarski was helped out of his vehicle and into the West River residence prior to the arrival of GIFC firefighters. He was evaluated by GIFC medics for non critical injuries, stabilized and transported to ECMC for additional medical attention. Despite considerable front end vehicle damage, Trivikram sustained minor injuries only and declined hospitalization.
Meanwhile, U. S. Postal supervisors arrived on location and secured undelivered mail.
All GIFC units returned in service at 2:52 p.m. after all vehicles were safely removed from the scene and traffic was restored, stated Chief Butcher.
Island Firefighters Welcome New Members for 2010 - Feb. 2010
Anderson, Benoit, Doyle, Thompson, Cieri, McCormick, Schmitz, (Dell absent) line up for training assignments from lead instructor Matt Osinski.
Click photo for larger view
By Ray Pauley - GIFC Public Information Officer
Fire Chief Greg Butcher reports that eight new members were recently voted into the ranks of the Grand Island Fire Company and will serve to bolster 'recruitment and retention,' which is a top priority for growth and stability within the volunteer fire service.
These recruits are Jeremiah Anderson, Jourdain Benoit, Robert Cieri, Galen Dell, Keith Doyle, Scott McCormick, Richard Schmitz, and Edith Thompson. It should be noted that Anderson's great grandfather was one of the GIFC's "founding fathers" during 1938. Cieri and McCormick have prior experience with other local VFDS. Benoit, Dell and Doyle also have some basic lifesaving training. Thompson is presently an emergency medical/fire dispatcher for the GIFC.
During the first week of February 2010, these individuals began a rigorous six-month training period which will prepare them for a lifetime of community service in the GIFC. Congratulations and good luck to these aspiring firefighters and paramedics who have chosen to serve their friends and neighbors.
Fire Co. Installation of Officers - January 2010
2010 Firematic Officers (top left) Bob Cleveland, Paul Gorman, Chief Kevin Koch, Matt Osinski,
Chris Soluri; (lower) Shawn Kephart, Pete Sukmanowski, Ed Krecisz, Jeremy Pullano
Click photo for larger view
By Ray Pauley - GIFC Public Information Officer
Town Supervisor Peter McMahon administered the oath of office to newly elected
Grand Island Fire Company officers on Saturday, January 9, 2010 at Fire Headquaerters. Both
firematic and administrative officers were sworn to uphold their community protection duties while
meeting the ever demanding challenges of emergency incidents which are expected to exceed 1600
during 2010.
As Greg Butcher commences his eighth term as Fire Chief, he will be joined by Deputy
Chief Kevin Koch, 1st Assistant Chief Matt Osinski, 2nd Assistant Chief Chris Soluri; Fire
Captains Ed Krecisz, Pete Sukmanowski, Shawn Kephart; Day Captain Paul Gorman, Fire Police
Captain Chuck Berlinger, and EMS Captains Bob Cleveland and Jeremy Pullano.
First time President Tammy Gorman will be assisted by Vice President Mike Anderson, Recording Secretary and
Line Secretary Adrian Pilliod, Financial Secretary Tony Mastantuono, Treasurer Dale Mock, and Sgt-at-Arms Dave Khreis. Mike
Braun will join the Baord of Review, while Clay Clark and Chuck Berlinger will service as Benevolent Association Trustees.
Paul Gorman and Ray Pauley were returned to three-year terms on the Board of Directors with Mike Braun
who will begin his first term.
Ladies Auxiliary President Nicole Butcher introduced her 2010 officers as follows; Vice President Mary
Becker, Secretary Julie Meyer, Treasurer Danielle Soluri, Sgt.-at-Arms Cathy Thomas, Chaplain Mary Becker, and Trustees
Barbara Wilson, Arlene Soluri and Teddy Linenfelser.
Chief Butcher proudly pointed out that there were many firefighters whose individual contributions
extended far beyond the call of duty. Among those were Ed Krecisz, who was commended for his 2009 training excellence.
John Podlucky and Tony Mastantuono (son of Financial Sec.) were given special recognition as "co-rookies of the year"
because of their outstanding overall performance.
Mike Braun was also singled out for his exceptional leadership as president over the past four years.
"Top Ten" responders for 2009 were led by Ray Pauley with 745 calls. Others in sequential order are:
Dale Mock, Ryan Shea, Greg Butcher, Kevin Koch, Tony Mastantuono, Peter Coppola, Mark Sadkowski, Rob Soluri, and Peter
McMahon.
Overshadowing these and many other noteworthy accomplishments however was a somber note of sadness
over the loss of four members. "Gone but not forgotten" are Levant Becker, Ronald McTigue, William Wood, and Kenneth
Sondel. It was noted that sturdy foundations laid by such members will continue to lead the way for the GIFC and its
new leadership team.
"Congratulations and good luck to these 'special' community protection volunteers, and a warm welcome
to new recruits Kevin Dilliot, Tony Mastantuono, John Podlucky, and Rob Soluri who have successfully completed all 2009
training requirements," Mr. Pauley said.
Mother & Infant Daughter Fatally Injured in Island MVA - 2010
Stephanie Ali and daughter, Grace
By Ray Pauley - GIFC Public Information Officer
Island Fire Chief Greg Butcher reports that at 6:24 p.m. Tuesday, January 5,
2009 Rescue Personnel responded to a two-car collision at 2695 Grand Island Blvd., just east of
Bedell Road. Both vehicles were reportedly southbound when one of the drivers lost control due
to slippery road conditions and was "T-boned" in the process. GIFC Paramedics initiated ALS
treatment upon Stephanie Ali, 22, of Grand Island and her five-month-old daughter, both of whom
sustained serious traumatic injuries. These effoerts continued during transport to Kenmore Mercy
Hospital. The driver of the other vehicle which was towing a trailer with snowmobiles, Michael
Szmanski, 43, of Niagara Falls and his passenger, Mark Szmanski, 17, claimed no injuries and
declined treatment. GIFC units remained on scene until 10:25 p.m. to assist Erie County Sheriff's
Dept. AIV officers during their ongoing investigation.
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Click photo for larger view
2010 Firematic Officers (top left) Bob Cleveland, Paul Gorman, Chief Kevin Koch, Matt Osinski,
Chris Soluri; (lower) Shawn Kephart, Pete Sukmanowski, Ed Krecisz, Jeremy Pullano
Click photo for larger view
By Ray Pauley - GIFC Public Information Officer
Town Supervisor Peter McMahon administered the oath of office to newly elected Grand Island Fire Company officers on Saturday, January 9, 2010 at Fire Headquaerters. Both firematic and administrative officers were sworn to uphold their community protection duties while meeting the ever demanding challenges of emergency incidents which are expected to exceed 1600 during 2010.
As Greg Butcher commences his eighth term as Fire Chief, he will be joined by Deputy Chief Kevin Koch, 1st Assistant Chief Matt Osinski, 2nd Assistant Chief Chris Soluri; Fire Captains Ed Krecisz, Pete Sukmanowski, Shawn Kephart; Day Captain Paul Gorman, Fire Police Captain Chuck Berlinger, and EMS Captains Bob Cleveland and Jeremy Pullano.
First time President Tammy Gorman will be assisted by Vice President Mike Anderson, Recording Secretary and Line Secretary Adrian Pilliod, Financial Secretary Tony Mastantuono, Treasurer Dale Mock, and Sgt-at-Arms Dave Khreis. Mike Braun will join the Baord of Review, while Clay Clark and Chuck Berlinger will service as Benevolent Association Trustees.
Paul Gorman and Ray Pauley were returned to three-year terms on the Board of Directors with Mike Braun who will begin his first term.
Ladies Auxiliary President Nicole Butcher introduced her 2010 officers as follows; Vice President Mary Becker, Secretary Julie Meyer, Treasurer Danielle Soluri, Sgt.-at-Arms Cathy Thomas, Chaplain Mary Becker, and Trustees Barbara Wilson, Arlene Soluri and Teddy Linenfelser.
Chief Butcher proudly pointed out that there were many firefighters whose individual contributions extended far beyond the call of duty. Among those were Ed Krecisz, who was commended for his 2009 training excellence. John Podlucky and Tony Mastantuono (son of Financial Sec.) were given special recognition as "co-rookies of the year" because of their outstanding overall performance.
Mike Braun was also singled out for his exceptional leadership as president over the past four years.
"Top Ten" responders for 2009 were led by Ray Pauley with 745 calls. Others in sequential order are: Dale Mock, Ryan Shea, Greg Butcher, Kevin Koch, Tony Mastantuono, Peter Coppola, Mark Sadkowski, Rob Soluri, and Peter McMahon.
Overshadowing these and many other noteworthy accomplishments however was a somber note of sadness over the loss of four members. "Gone but not forgotten" are Levant Becker, Ronald McTigue, William Wood, and Kenneth Sondel. It was noted that sturdy foundations laid by such members will continue to lead the way for the GIFC and its new leadership team.
"Congratulations and good luck to these 'special' community protection volunteers, and a warm welcome to new recruits Kevin Dilliot, Tony Mastantuono, John Podlucky, and Rob Soluri who have successfully completed all 2009 training requirements," Mr. Pauley said.
Mother & Infant Daughter Fatally Injured in Island MVA - 2010
Stephanie Ali and daughter, Grace
By Ray Pauley - GIFC Public Information Officer
Island Fire Chief Greg Butcher reports that at 6:24 p.m. Tuesday, January 5, 2009 Rescue Personnel responded to a two-car collision at 2695 Grand Island Blvd., just east of Bedell Road. Both vehicles were reportedly southbound when one of the drivers lost control due to slippery road conditions and was "T-boned" in the process. GIFC Paramedics initiated ALS treatment upon Stephanie Ali, 22, of Grand Island and her five-month-old daughter, both of whom sustained serious traumatic injuries. These effoerts continued during transport to Kenmore Mercy Hospital. The driver of the other vehicle which was towing a trailer with snowmobiles, Michael Szmanski, 43, of Niagara Falls and his passenger, Mark Szmanski, 17, claimed no injuries and declined treatment. GIFC units remained on scene until 10:25 p.m. to assist Erie County Sheriff's Dept. AIV officers during their ongoing investigation.
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