North Massapequa Fire Dept New Ladder Truck
The Board of Fire Commissioners of The North Massapequa Fire District, along with the Department’s Chief’s Office, Line Officers and Members, are thrilled to announce the arrival of the new ladder truck (designated unit 661). Dedicated to recently passed Commissioner Frank A. Nocerino, the 2024 Pierce Enforcer 100’ Ascendant Mid-Mount Tower Ladder, replaces the Department’s previous ladder truck that was lost several years ago in a devastating fire, on Christmas morning, at the headquarters building on Broadway.
“While we have been using a preowned ladder truck as a temporary replacement, we are very excited to now have this state-of-the-art apparatus with its many new high-tech features, to help our first responders protect our community’s residents,” said Chief of Department Thomas M. Licata. “The truck is assigned to Ladder Company 1 and I look forward to seeing this incredible apparatus in service for many years to come.”
NMFD Welcomes New Fire Medic
The North Massapequa Fire Department proudly welcomed it’s newest Fire Medic- Angelina Dinatale; sworn in by Chief of Department Thomas M. Licata. Angelina was assigned to Engine Company #3. Also on hand was Company 3 Captain- Nicholas J. Moir.
October was a busy month for the NMFD (in a good way).
The North Massapequa Fire Department (NMFD) recently held its Annual Fire Prevention Open House (below left) and, two weeks later, hosted its Annual Children’s Rag-A-Muffin Costume Parade (below right)
“The Department’s fire prevention program has always been exceptional and, as in past years, included live demonstrations, hands on training, blood pressure checks, jaws-of-life demonstration and free goodies for both children and adults. Chief Thomas Licata said. “Most importantly, residents learned how to keep their families safe in the event of an emergency.”
Chief Licata also thanked his members for their efforts in hosting the 49th Annual Rag-A-Muffin Parade. “For nearly five decades, we have organized this outstanding event, which has brought tremendous joy to our community’s families, and especially our young people,” Chief Licata said. “Our department has always been extremely proud of this event and I know our residents really enjoyed it. There were some great costumes on display and following the parade, all of the participants were excited with the prospect of winning a bicycle at the awards ceremony. Needless to say, a good time was had by all.”
In Memoriam
The North Massapequa Fire Department is saddened to announce the passing of Commissioner Frank A. Nocerino. Comm’r Nocerino was sworn into the department in 1971 and assigned to Ladder Co #1 where he rose through the ranks to the position of Chief of Department in 1982. Then he began his 40 year stint as Commissioner of the North Massapequa Fire District. Comm’r Nocerino served as the President of the Association of Fire Districts of both Nassau County and the State of NY and was elected to the AFDSNY Secretary/Treasurer role, which he held for many years.
Comm’r Nocerino was involved in many community service organizations including the Farmingdale Men’s Club; most recently held the roles as the Chairman of the Republic Airport Commission and Vice President of the Firefighter’s Charitable Foundation. His passion for community service extended into his professional life as well, where he most recently held the esteemed position of Town of Oyster Bay Commissioner of Parks until his retirement.
Comm’r Nocerino started his career immediately after graduating high school at Newsday, where he worked for 20 years. His work not only enriched the lives of those in his immediate community but also set a standard of service in the surrounding areas.
Comm’r Nocerino is survived by his loving wife (of 48 years), Gerry, and their children: Kristen, Diane and husband Joe (nee Catalano), Michael and wife Julie (nee Fenimore), and Deborah. Frank was a cherished grandfather to Madelyn, Juliana, Michael, Lily, Dominick, Dylan, Mason, Michael, Annalise, and Roman. He also leaves behind his brother, Ralph.
NMFD Provides EMS Support at Events Throughout the Community
The volunteer members of the North Massapequa Fire Department are often called upon to provide ambulance services at events throughout the community and our neighboring communities; most recently at the Columbus Lodge Festival on Broadway, pictured below with Oyster Bay Supervisor Joe Saladino (center) and Town Receiver of Taxes- Jeff Pravato (left of center) with New York Assemblyman John Mikulin; at Plainedge High School where the Red Devils Football Team squared off in a night game against Seaford High School. These type of standbys are routinely handled by the District’s volunteer first responders who support events like local sports, festivals, Special Olympics and many other activities throughout North Massapequa. “Quietly and without fanfare, our dedicated firefighters and fire medics devote their time to making sure events in our community are supported and protected,” said Chief of Department Thomas M. Licata. “Recent standbys at Plainedge High School, and at the Columbus Lodge Festival on Broadway, are great examples of how our department is woven into the fabric of North Massapequa. It may not be noticed by every resident, but we are always there to protect the lives and property of our residents in times of emergency.”
665 Wetdown
In the fire service, a ‘wetdown’ is a ritual celebrated by many volunteer fire departments in the United States in which firefighters from neighboring towns ritualistically commission a new fire apparatus by anointing it with water sprayed from the visitors’ firefighting equipment. (source- wikipedia)
The North Massapequa Fire Department recently took possession of a 2023 Spartan Gladiator 1500/500 replacing a 1996 Pierce Lance, operated by Friendship Engine Company 3; and on July 20th, 2024 was officially placed ‘in-service’ and designated as unit 665.
(video courtesy of Mike Villanova)
NMFD Hosts Successful Blood Drive
With hospitals facing a critical nationwide blood shortage, members of the North Massapequa Fire Department hosted a successful blood drive to help meet the demand and continue saving lives.
“We were proud to host this necessary blood drive to help build local blood banks and help as many people as possible,” said Chief of Department Thomas M. Licata. “I thank those who donated and everyone within our Department for their efforts with this initiative, knowing that a simple blood donation can be the gift of life for as many as three people.”
Among those on hand (left to right) were 3rd Assistant Chief Stephen Archipolo, who acted as the Department’s liaison to the New York Blood Center, 1st Assistant Chief Joseph G. Ferrante, Chief of Department Licata, Karol, a phlebotomist from the New York Blood Center, North Massapequa resident Laura Smalley, wife of North Massapequa, Fire Department Ex-Captain Jack Smalley and New York Blood Center Account Representative Linda Wienclaw. Those who are interested in donating blood can still do so by visiting nybc.org to find a local blood drive to support.
NMFD Swears in Line Officers.
(Top Photo)
North Massapequa Fire Department 1st Assistant Chief Joseph G. Ferrante (2nd from left) recently had the honor of swearing in two line officers for Friendship Engine Company 3. He was joined by 3rd Assistant Chief Stephen Archipolo (right). Taking the oath of office were 1st Lieutenant Louis M. Robustelli (2nd from right) and new 2nd Lieutenant Alex Abrams (3rd from left). They will join their company office, which is headed by Friendship Engine Company 3 Captain Nick Moir (left).
(Bottom Photo)
Alex is the son of Ex-Chief and Commissioner Sean K. Abrams (right) and the nephew of Honorary Chief Scot Abrams (left).
Newest member to Friendship
Engine Co #3
The North Massapequa Fire Department welcomed its newest member, Fire Medic Stephanie Seltzer; assigned to Friendship Engine Company 3. Stephanie, a former member of the Rescue Squad with the Floral Park Fire Department is proud to join her daughter, Amanda and son, Steven, also first responders in Friendship Engine Co #3.
(Top pic) Stephanie was sworn in by 1st Assistant Chief Joseph G. Ferrante with Capt Nick Moir (right)
(Bottom pic) A family picture: 1st Assistant Chief Joseph Ferrante (left), daughter Amanda (2nd left), Stephanie (center), son Steven (3rd from right), 3rd Assistant Stephen J. Archipolo (second from right) and Company 3 Captain, Nick Moir (right)
2024 Carmelo Bartolotto Memorial Scholarship Winners
The Annual North Massapequa Fire Department 2024 Carmelo Bartolotto Memorial Scholarships were recently presented to local seniors Annalise Abrams (2nd from left) and Katelyn Moar (2nd from right). Annalise will attend South Florida University and will major in Accounting. Katelyn will attend SUNY Cortland and major in Education. The honor reflects both academic excellence and exemplary community service. The awards were presented by 1st Assistant Chief Joseph Ferrante (right) and 3rd Assistant Chief Steven Archipolo (left).
Happy Mothers Day
Newest member of Ladder Company 1
North Massapequa Fire Department Chief, Thomas L. Licata (right), joined with Company 1 Captain, Robert J. Schmidgall III (center) and swore in the newest member of the Department, John Gennardo, who was presented his badge as a new firefighter. John, who took the oath at the Departments May meeting was assigned to Ladder Company 1. We wish him all the best as a first responder in North Massapequa.
First Official act as Chief of Department
In his first official duty after being sworn into office, North Massapequa Fire Department Chief, Thomas M. Licata, administered the Oath of Office to the Line Officers of the North Massapequa Fire Department; (l-r) 2nd Lieutenant and Ex-Capt Richard Gentile, Captain Robert Schmidgall III from Ladder Company 1; 1st Lieutenant Joseph Salavec, Captain Andre` Ellis, 2nd Lieutenant John Thomas from Hose and Engine Co 2; 1st Lieutenant Christopher Martin, Captain Nicholas Moir and 2nd Lieutenant Louis Robustelli from Friendship Engine Company 3. Also looking on, Chairman of the Board for the North Massapequa Fire District- Commissioner Ralph J. Raymond (far right).
New Chief of Department sworn in to the North Massapequa Fire Dept.
Ralph J. Raymond, Chairman of the North Massapequa Fire District Board of Fire Commissioners (holding the microphone), recently administered the Oath of Office to the newly-elected Chief of the North Massapequa Fire Department- Thomas M. Licata (2nd from left). Also sworn in: 1st Assistant Chief- Joseph Ferrante (left), 2nd Assistant Chief- Marc Timpano (2nd from right) and 3rd Assistant Chief- Steven Archipolo (right)
In his final act as Chief of the North Massapequa Fire Department, Chief Mark Frascella (left), joined with Friendship Engine Co 3 Captain Nick Moir (right) and swore in the newest members of the department, assigned to Company 3; (l-r) Nick Russo, Bob Russo, Bill Burbige and Nick Paladino.
The North Massapequa Fire Department attended the 4th Annual St. Patricks Day parade, in Wantagh.
The Massapequa Chamber of Commerce presented Volunteer Firefighters of the Year Awards to (seated L-R) Massapequa Fire Department Fire-Medic Brandon Wolfson of Rescue Company 3, Ex-Captain Edward Fulford of Ladder Company 6 and North Massapequa Fire Department Ex-Captain Richard Gentile, Ladder Company 1 and Ex-Captain Joseph Canova, Engine Company 2.
Congratulations, and thank you, to these hometown heroes.
Holiday Fire Safety Tips
N. Massapequa FD Welcomes its’ newest members
The N Massapequa FD proudly welcomes its newest members, Fire Medic Josh Rickard (Hose and Engine Company 2 – fourth from left); Fire Medic Hailey Witzgall (Hose and Engine Company 2 – fifth from left); FF Steve Ramos of Ladder Company 1 – center) and FF Delroy Gordon (Hose and Engine Company 2 – fifth from right). All were sworn in by Chief of Department Mark Frascella (right). Also on hand (left to right) were 1st Asst. Chief Thomas Licata, 2nd Asst. Chief Joseph Ferrante, Ladder Company 1 Capt. Robert Schmidgall, Hose and Engine Company 2 Capt. Andre Ellis, Hose and Engine Company 2 2nd Lt. John Thomas and 3rd Asst. Chief Marc Timpano. Congratulations and thank you to N Massapequa’s newest first responders.
N. Massapequa Fire Department welcomes its newest member,
Fire Medic Joseph Sancetta of Hose & Engine Company 2 (left). He was sworn by 1st Assistant Chief Thomas Licata and Hose; and Engine Company 2 Captain Andre Ellis (center) presented his Department badge. Congratulations to Joseph for pledging himself to protect the residents of North Massapequa during times of emergency.
There is NO rain date.
Prizes will be raffled off with the winners contacted via phone.
North Massapequa Fire Dept Rag-A-Muffin Costume Parade
North Massapequa Fire Department Hosts its’ Annual Open House
The North Massapequa Fire Department hosted its Annual Fire Prevention Open House, on October 13th, 2023, at its Fire Headquarters.
The event was well attended by our local Plainedge and Farmingdale School District students, Cub Scout Pack 436, and many of our towns’ residents, neighbors and Officials.
North Massapequa Fire Department firefighters and medics conducted and demonstrated:
- Vehicle extrication using the ‘Jaws of Life’.
- Stove fire evolutions
- Exit Drills in the Home (E.D.I.T.H.)
- Children fire safety.
- Stop, Drop & Roll
- Fire extinguishment tips.
- Performed blood pressure checks, among many other activities!
Special thanks to our membership and the Community for their support. We also thank our partners from the New York State Police, Nassau County District Attorneys Office, Nassau County Fire Marshals Office and YES Community Council for their assistance.
‘We look forward to having the Community in-house, every year, and this year was no different as we were also able to show our new firehouse which was heavily damaged by fire Christmas morning, 2019’; said Chief of Department, Mark Frascella.
NMFD Celebrates 50 yrs of service
Members of the North Massapequa Fire Department recently joined in honoring Ex-Chief John McCormack of Ladder Company No. 1 (third from right) for 50 years of outstanding service to the Department and the residents of North Massapequa. On hand to celebrate (left to right) were Chief of Department Mark Frascella, 1st Assistant Chief Thomas Licata, 2nd Assistant Chief Joseph Ferrante, Ex-Chief Mccormack, Ladder Company No. 1 2nd Lieutenant Richard Gentile and Ladder Company No. 1 Captain Robert Schmidgall III
NMFD Welcomes its’ Newest Member
The North Massapequa Fire Department welcomes its newest member, Firefighter Kevin Murano (center), of Broadway Hose & Engine Company 2. He was sworn in by Chief of Department Mark Frascella (left) and Company 2 Captain Andre Ellis (right) presented his Department badge.
NMFD Welcomes its’ Newest Member
The North Massapequa Fire Department welcomes it’s newest member, John Damato (center), of Friendship Engine Company 3. He was sworn by Chief of Department Mark Frascella (left) and Friendship Engine Company 3 Captain Nick Moir (right) presented his Department badge. John is not new to the volunteer fire service, as he previously spent nine years as a firefighter in the Rescue Company of the Levittown Fire Department and served there as a Lieutenant.
NMFD Honors Scholarship Recipients
Chiefs, line officers and members of the North Massapequa Fire Department recently honored the deserving recipients of the organization’s annual scholarships. The awards are presented to local high school seniors in recognition of their outstanding academics and notable civic involvement. This year’s winners were all students of Plainedge High School. Marcelo Licata (third from left) will attend Lock Haven University in Pennsylvania, where he will study Physical Therapy and play D-2 baseball. Kayla Ferrante (fourth from right) will attend Rutgers University as a Pre-Med student and her twin sister Kelly (third from right) will attend the University of Tampa and study Forensic Science.
(left to right) NMFD Scholarship Committee Chairman Ex-Chief Marc Timpano, Chief of Department Mark J. Frascella, Marcelo Licata, 1st Assistant Chief Thomas M Licata, Kayla Ferrante, Kelly Ferrante, 2nd Assistant Chief Joseph G. Ferrante and 3rd Assistant Chief Marc E. Timpano.
NMFD Mourns the passing of 67-year member
Jackson B. Pokress of Friendship Engine Company 3
The Commissioners, Chiefs, officers, and members of the North Massapequa Fire Department mourn the passing of 67-Year member Jackson B. Pokress of Friendship Engine Company 3, who passed away on Saturday, May 13th at the age of 102.
“Jackson had an amazing legacy of military and community service,” said Chief of Department Mark J. Frascella. “He was a proud World War II Veteran; having enlisted in the United States Army after the Nation was attacked at Pearl Harbor and served with the famed Merrill’s Marauders in Burma during World War II. He ascended to the prestigious rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He later went to display the same dedication and bravery over the last 67 years as a highly active and respected member of the North Massapequa Fire Department.”
During his illustrious tenure in the fire service, Jackson was elected as a Fire District Commissioner and went on to become President of the Association of Fire Districts of Nassau County. He was a member of the North Massapequa Fire Department’s Friendship Engine Company 3 and had served for many years as the Chaplain on the North Massapequa Fire Department, where his kindness, wisdom and affability were greatly appreciated by every member of the department.
Jackson worked in public relations, was a renowned photographer and journalist, and owned local newspapers. He was widely respected by all who worked with him, including many famous people in sports and entertainment, as well as government leaders. “He truly led an exemplary life,” Chief Frascella said. “We will always be proud of his incredible legacy.”
Chief Frascella said the members were honored to serve with Jackson, but also were proud of his distinguished service to the United States of America and his community. “He represented the gold standard of selfless service and he was a role model for all of us in this Department,” Chief Frascella said. “A service honoring Jackson will be held on Tuesday, June 13, 2023 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Chapey’s Funeral Home, located at 20 Hicksville Road in Bethpage. The North Massapequa Fire Department will be holding a firematic service at 8:00 p.m.”
Members of the North Massapequa Fire Department recently joined with Jackson B. Pokress (center) and honored his distinguished service to our Nation and Community.
The North Massapequa Fire Department Exempt & Benevolent Association Memorial Service 2023
NMFD Hosts Annual Department Picnic
NMFD Celebrates the 102nd Birthday of
Jackson B. Pokress
of Friendship Engine Company 3
The North Massapequa Fire Department, led by Chief of Department Mark J. Frascella and its Exempt and Benevolent Association, headed by President Robert Gersitz and Vice President Scot Abrams, joined in celebrating the 102nd birthday of one of its senior members, Jackson B. Pokress, who now resides in the Long Island State Veteran’s Home in Stony Brook.
Jackson has an amazing legacy of military and community service. He is a proud World War II Veteran; having enlisted in the United States Army after the Nation was attacked at Pearl Harbor and served with the famed Merrill’s Marauders in Burma during World War II. He ascended to the prestigious rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He later went to display the same dedication and bravery over the last 66 years as a highly active and respected member of the North Massapequa Fire Department.
During his illustrious tenure in the fire service, Jackson was elected as a Fire District Commissioner and went on to become President of the Association of Fire Districts of Nassau County. He is a member of the North Massapequa Fire Department’s Friendship Engine Company 3 and has served for many years as the Chaplain on the North Massapequa Fire Department, where his kindness, wisdom and affability have been greatly appreciated by every member of the department.
Jackson worked in public relations, was a renowned photographer and journalist, and owned local newspapers. He was widely respected by all who worked with him, including many famous people in sports and entertainment, as well as government leaders. “He truly has led an exemplary life and we are so proud to celebrate Jackson’s birthday and share his special day with him,” said Exempt and Benevolent President Robert Gersitz. “He is an incredible person and we are honored to call him a brother.”
Chief Frascella said the members wanted to celebrate this momentous birthday with Jackson, but also wanted to commend him for his distinguished service to the United States of America and his community. “He represents the gold standard of selfless service and he is a role model for all of us in this Department,” Chief Frascella said. “In addition, by visiting the Long Island State Veteran’s Home in Stony Brook, our members were able to pay tribute to many of our American soldiers, like Jackson, who served this Nation with pride, bravery and distinction.”
Bailout Training
Members of the North Massapequa FD conduct their annual ‘bailout’ training; which is a requirement to maintain interior firefighter (‘Class A’) status.
The ‘bailout’ system was instituted after two FDNY firefighters leapt to their deaths from a fourth-floor fire in a Bronx apartment on Jan. 23, 2005. Four other firefighters who jumped were seriously hurt, including two who tried to use a rope that one of them carried. Those two could not make quick or effective use of it, and they, too, fell to the ground.
The ‘bailout’ system has gone through several alterations, since its’ inception, and the North Massapequa FD has issued its members the most up-to-date version.
Just another tool firefighters can use to remain safe in a dangerous situation.
NMFD HOSTS 47th ANNUAL CHILDREN’S
RAG-A-MUFFIN COSTUME PARADE
Members of the North Massapequa Fire Department (NMFD) hosted their 47th Annual Children’s Rag-A-Muffin Costume Parade on Halloween, much to the delight of residents. “The Rag-A-Muffin Parade is always special, but this year has added meaning because the pandemic forced us to cancel the festivities last year,” explained Chief of Department James M. Maroldo. “For the past 47 years, we have hosted this outstanding event and it has brought tremendous joy to our community’s families, and especially our young people.”
The Annual Children’s Rag-A-Muffin Costume Parade is typically held on the Sunday prior to Halloween. But, this year’s event fell on Halloween, which provided some extra atmosphere to an event already charged with excitement. “It was great day for the children,” Chief Maroldo said. “They got to wear their costumes at the parade prior to Trick or Treating and later saw Santa Claus himself riding on top of the Department’s Ladder Truck!” Youngsters also had a chance to win a bicycle or other great raffle prizes and enjoyed hot dogs and orange drinks served by the first responders.
Chief Maroldo said the parade is extremely popular because it brings everyone together in celebration. “We are a tight knit community and this event personifies the special bonds we all share as North Massapequa residents,” Chief Maroldo said. “Our department members are extremely proud of this event and I know our community is looking forward to many more years of the Rag-A-Muffin parade. The Chief thanked all who participated, both parents and children alike, and also acknowledged the event’s sponsors and the support of the Plainedge High School Band, which led the procession and played brilliantly. “The Plainedge Band is amazing,” Chief Maroldo. “They are such an important part of the Rag-A-Muffin Parade and help make this day special. It takes an entire community to make an event like this successful and it is truly an honor to host the Rag-A-Muffin Parade on behalf of North Massapequa.”
NMFD ENGINES BACK IN SEVICE AFTER FIRE
The North Massapequa Fire Department is proud to have two of their engines back in service, after both were significantly damaged in a devastating fire at the department’s headquarters on Broadway. The refurbishment of the two pumpers, a Pierce Lance and a Pierce Velocity, included significant upgrades to the apparatus improving their efficiency and function. The two 1500 gallon-per-minute pumpers known as 662 & 663, are operated by the department’s Hose and Engine Company 2 and its members are more than pleased to have their state-of-the-art units back in operation.
Members of the North Massapequa Fire Department proudly celebrated three of their distinguished members at their recent annual installation dinner. “Ex-Chief and North Massapequa Fire District Commissioner Frank A. Nocerino, Ex-Captain and Past Fire District Commissioner George O’Brien and Ex-Captain Gary Pysock, all have reached the amazing milestone of five decades in the fire service,” Chief of Department James M. Maroldo said: “Their legacy of protecting the lives and property of their neighbors is something truly extraordinary.”
Frank, a proud member of Ladder Company No. 1, has devoted his life to community service. He has been involved in all levels of the fire service and, in addition to his service as Company Captain and Chief of Department, served as President of the Association of Fire Districts of New York State and also as Chairman of the Nassau County Fire Commission.
George is a member of Hose & Engine Company 2 who served as Company Captain before being elected to serve as a Commissioner of the North Massapequa Fire District, where administrative skills enabled him to skillfully balance the needs of the fire department and the taxpayers of the district. George has been active in many other diverse capacities within the department.
Gary is a member of Friendship Engine Company 3 and ably served as his company’s captain. Aside from being an active first responder, Ex Captain Pysock serves on the Department’s Board of Directors, was a long time member of the Gremlins Drill Team and serves as Chairman of the Fire Prevention Committee.
“We are particularly fortunate to have the service of these three outstanding members of our department,” said chief James Maroldo. “The success of any agency is contingent upon the dedication of exemplary volunteers like them. The sacrifices they have made is greatly appreciated and highly respected and I wish them all the best in the future.”
