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Considering the proliferation of Digital Cameras and Cellphone cameras, it's easeir then ever to get a photo of anything- especially covertly. Taking a photo of a fire truck, train or a plane, of which there's millions of photos on the internet- if I'm not allowed to do that to "protect" ourselves, then that to me is outright ridiculous. I've known and heard of numerous people who've been harrased because of their legitimate interest- and it's only getting worse. It just seems like the regular person with the interest ends up suffering, when, I hate to say it, no matter what we photograph the terrorist are going to manage to find a way to do something if their determined, and therefore the needless harrasment is therefore that. Please note that I do understand sensitive areas, but not in the overzealous definition.

From Larry Lorrance, posted on his site FireEngines.net (a great resource for diecast emergency services vehicle collectors) I can't say this comes as a suprise, I was expecting this to happen at some point. I hope it will be true that they breathe new life into the company, and at least they didn't go out of business.

Anyone seen or used this? Seems like a pretty neat idea, especially for use in command vehicles. http://www.pelican.com/lights_detail.php?recordID=9450

C'mon, someone must know something? Maybe Archville or Briarcliff are loaning them an Engine? I'd like to say Archville, Pocantico Hills, and Briarcliff consolidated, but it's Westchester...............

Nice shot Truck4, on that and the others!!! I'm jealous! That's one of my favorite Pierce pieces. I hope we see a similar one with ESU markings for Yonkers! I was supposed to shoot it last April, but due to circumstances I couldn't. I've seen and photographed LAPD Rescue 3, it's quite a cool vehicle as well. If I remember correctly, it's based on a Ford chasis. The Squad 51 pictured currently at LACoFD I believe is a spare.

Recently, I was encouraged to hear that Hawthorne FD has taken a very progressive and responsible move. As we all know from listening to 46.26, Hawthorne has had trouble getting an ambulance out weekdays. Hawthorne's population increases a lot during weekdays as well. I was told that during weekdays, Hawthorne FD has contracted with Empress EMS to provide EMT's. Peekskill EMS also has a similar deal with Empress, and I believe Valhalla VAC has one with Metrocare. Kudos to these agencies for being responsible and taking action to address a problem when people's lives are at stake, instead of covering it up or denying it like other agencies do. Although I do hope one day these positions will be civil service with a pension, but that's a whole 'nother story.

OK, after much thought I've determined that this whole "Home Rule" issue that people have in their head that keeps people from working together in this county is a bunch of bull. I may be an idiot here, but here are some specific examples: 1. County Hazmat Team, County Technical Rescue Team, County Training Facility, County Dispatch, County Police, County etc. If we can have all these service provided by the county, how come their can't be a County FD and EMS that can override local jurisdictions where needed? Doesn't County law superceede local law? 2. Fire Districts covering multiple towns. If so, how come we can't create "Mutual Aid Districts" to combine resources? 3. Technically, FDNY is a county fire department, in fact, a multiple county fire department. 4. PSAPs. If Westchester County is in charge of administering the 911 system, they can mandate that all calls come through a central resource, excluding the large cities. How does Dutchess do it? Just some thoughts. I personally feel the "home rule" excuse is a lame excuse not to work together, and a huge copout. There's many ways we can work together to improve response times and manpower, save money, and work more efficiently. All it takes is some progressive leadership. How much money could we save that could be better spent elsewhere by eliminating duplication of resources? What interferes with this? Politicians and Egos. How can we change it? Speak up, and take some strong actions- like electing progressive leadership, on both the administrative and line side that aren't afraid to change things for the better. Write your local politicians about the problems, and the solutions. Band together with other members and departments to lobby for change. The water is still, and it's time to make some waves. People's lives are at stake.

Recently, I passed by a motorcycle accident on a local parkway. I was going in the other direction, and only saw the scene briefly. But, what I saw made me shake my head. A pocket-rocket type motorcycle had wiped out in the left lane of a three lane highway, with a large shoulder and big grassy median, that was a staight shoot down to the local trauma center. Just some thoughts, NOT SPEFIC TO THIS INCIDENT but used as an example: For what seem to be a small, islolated (despite the injuries whatever they may have been), there were an incredibly large amount of resources dedicated to it. I observed numerous chiefs vehicles, several fire apparatus from three different agencies including two heavy rescues, and several EMS vehicles. The only vehicle blocking the scene was a State Trooper vehicle. Traffic was stopped compltelty, despite the accident being in the far left lane. I don't know if a line was stretched or not. I really don't know why a single motorcycle accident would require such resources. This accident may have been on the border of a couple of jurisdictions, including a dual response district, but no matter how much I think about it, I can't understand why the first incident commander on scene couldn't manage their resources better. It's dissapointing to think about on so many levels. I think if resources in this area were more effectively managed, we could save on money, allow officers and members to gain more experiences, reduce fuel costs and wear and tear on apparatus, and have better staffing distrobution. It's also scary that some departments commit the bulk of their manpower to an incident such as this......what if a fire was to come in? We all know that the first people to respond on the volunteer level are usually the most active and the most trained. The first officer to sign on the air should be able to communicate with PD on scene or dispatch and know how to allocate their resources immediately. I mean, a motorcycles accident, single victim, should be a no-brain typically. This is a problem throughout the area. Everyone hears a hot job and wants to go. A motorcyle accident is basically a scoop-and-run job if there is no pin, and an AI for the PD sometimes. Once the wrecker gets there and any dangers mitigated, the FD's job is done. Not to mention each and every vehicle responding is at a higher risk for an accident.

I was wondering if anyone else on this forum was as fascinated by "The First 48" on A&E as much as I am? It's a really well done reality crime series, that follows homicide detective during the first 48 hours of a homicide investigation. It's graphic, and they really get up close and personal with all aspects of the show. The narration and editing is excellent as well. New season starts on Thursday.

I've noticed a lot of department's stretch a line at an MVA. What I've also noticed is these same firefighters don't have an SCBA on, nor a hood that's ready to go. So then, what's the point of stretching a line? What happens if the car catches fire? Do the firefighters run back and put on SCBA's, or suck in the toxic fumes? If no SCBA, then what's the point of proactively stretching a line?

This is a cool concept!

Just a heads up, Season 3 of one of my favorite shows, "Beach Patrol", starts July 16th at 8PM on Court TV. This season, it's in Honolulu! (Season 1: San Diego Season 2: Miami)

Two of my favorite shows were "Paramedics" and "Trauma: Life In The ER" , which aired on The Learning Channel (TLC). They were very popular at the time, and currently reair or did at one time on Discovery Health (which my Cablevision service doesn't provide ) Since they were cancelled around the same time that HIPPA came out, it was speculated that it was because of the new laws. But, with all the other reality shows out there, is that the truth? Does anybody know truly why? Unlike "The Bravest", which aired in most major markets as an overnight syndication program, which caused it's low ratings and subsequent demise, these shows were prime time.

I'm curious how reality crime shows get permission from the suspects, victims, witness, or whoever else to be filmed on shows such as "Cops" or "The First 48". I can't see how some of these people give permission to be filmed. I know there must be some coersion, but is money offered? Are there laws that pertain to this?

Here's a photo taken a couple of weeks ago before the wedding. When I get some photos of the actual wedding, I will post. My bride was beautiful, and I must say I looked darn good myself, lol.

Please note this incident occured recently, not particularly today and this situation is just used as an example, FOR DISCUSSION and learning, and not aimed at a specific department or incident, since I did say it was an area problem.

I'm sure most in Westchester are familiar with road bicyclists that rides in packs in Westchester on the weekend. Granted, it is our responsibility to share the road, but some of these groups ride, as "packs", very, very aggresively at high speed, often ignoring traffic rules themselves, and putting themselves in great danger, especially on narrow roads where curves make visibilty dangerous. I'm curious, is there any regulation to this? Sometimes, the groups number 30 or more, and cut off or cause traffic disruption, and place themselves in great harm. One of the places I often see these types of cyclists ride is Route 22 between North White Plains and Armonk. Coincidentally, I often hear of bicyclists struck in this area.

Thanks guys! Had a GREAT wedding and a GREAT time, it all went by so fast. I am so proud and happy to finally be married to the love of my life.

I support Firefighter Carroll. He is an awesome, experience firefighter and fire instructor, and an institution in the Mount Vernon Fire Derpartment. I am proud that he is one of the instructors that tought me to be a firefighter in Probie School, and I learned from him and his very obvious love for the job and his department. I don't know the complete circumstances of this situation, but FF Carroll absolutely deserves and has earned this promotion. If he doesn't get it because of Mount Vernon politics, then that's a huge loss for the department and insult to ALL the firefighters who have trained and worked hard, hoping to one day earn a spot as an officer. I do not know who the other firefighter is, and he may deserve it as well, but knowing FF Carroll as well as many other Mount Vernon FF's and officers, he is an awesme choice too. I know as far as he's concerned, on his end, it's not a racial issue at all...it's a firefighting issue that's been interuptted by the usual city politics, which have put him and his fellow firefighters in danger once again. I completly agree with diversity, but everyone should be on an equal level.....we all bleed red....it should always be the best man for the job, no matter what, especially when it comes to an officer. (This is different from recruitment in my eyes) If it is an unfair hiring practice, then that needs adressing. But denying someone who deserves a promotion because of politics....at either end.....is unfair and lowers morale.

Does anyone know what happened to Manero's Resturant in Greenwich? I used to eat there all the time as a kid...it was my favorite resturant. It was a great, family oriented old school steakhouse. Some of my favorite menu items were the gorgonzola salad, the garlic bread, the chicken parm, the ribeye, the steak fries, and the ice cream roll desert ....all had their distinct Manero's delicious flavors. Also, the staff was always the same, familiar and friendly. The service and food always great and consistent. In fact, their gorgonzola is so popular, that they are now bottling it and selling it on the web. http://www.manerosgorgonzola.com/ My last memory of Maneros was eating there sometime several years ago. Apparently, they had just sold the place, and the new owners were trying to fancy it up. The staff was new, the food sucked, and so did the service. I presume Manero's closed....what has the building become? I had so many good memories of birthdays there, and many great meals. It's hard to din Also, I remember my parents and grandparents telling me that their used to be one is Hartsdale, at the building on Central Ave built onto a slope with a distinct top floor, now housing Westchester Cardiac Rehab and Sports Medicine. Their Florida location still exists at least http://www.maneros.com/ If you know anything, please add to the comments of this post.

I just returned home from seeing the documentary, "Sicko", by Michael Moore about the US Healthcare system. YOU HAVE TO GO SEE IT, regardless of what you think of Michael Moore. This movie takes a comparitive look at the US healthcare system, versus healthcare systems in other countries with socialized healthcare, such as Canada, England, France, and even Cuba. This movie highlighted another frustrating aspect of our society. How could the US Government provide better health care to Al-Queida detainees in Guantonomo Bay than their own people? Did you know that doctors in England, a country with socialized healthcare, make enough to live comfortably, and get bonuses if they improve thier patients health? Did you know in France, that they send you a nanny when you have a child-and they even do laundry- for FREE! The French also have a 35 hour workweek, and 5-10 WEEKS of vacation minium. Did you know that Medical expenses are the leading causes of bankruptcy in the US? And in these countries with socialized health care.....they don't pay a dime for it. Lower quality medical care is a myth. It also brings to light that in the USA, we live to work, not work to live. Why do we value materialistic things and "profit" more than the quality of our lives as well the lives of our families, friends, and neighbors? Why are we afraid to revolt and force change within our government? If things continue this way the rich will get richer and the poor will get poorer. Unfortunately, we will see more people we care about negatively affected by the current systems we have in place. I don't want to give too much away. Go see it....and you'll understand how I feel. It will DEFINITELY open up your eyes, and you will be glad you saw it. There are many myths explained and horrors exposed in this powerful film. How can we do this to our own people??? I truly hope this move stirs people to discussion and ultimately to action. 2nd best film I've ever seen, next to Shawshank Redemption.

From my awesome source (many of us on here thank you!): City Of Yonkers Fire-Rescue upcoming apparatus delivery schedule for the next 6 months: 2 - 75' Mid mount American LaFrance Tower Ladders 2 - American LaFrance Pumpers 1 - Mack Granite model 713 tandem axle tractor w/ sliding fifth wheel to be used for the 5000 gallon water tanker, the Fireblast trailer 1 - Live Burn trailer from Fire Blast = Fire Fighter Training by Fireblast 451 : Safety First 1 - Mobile command Post by MBF - on a freightliner M2 chassis And maybe a few other suprises................

But, as a citizen of this country, are we supposed to be complacent with the way the goverment operates? Is it not our duty and our heritage to fight for what is right? One of the great thing about this country is that Michael Moore can make a film such as this. He's not making another stupid romantic comedy or stupid sequel. Regardless of how you feel about him, at least he's using his filmmaking powers to try and open eyes, and stir debate. Is he flamboyant about it? Sure. Is he right about everything? No. But the healthcare system in this country is very, very messed up. I've worked in heatlhcare as a Paramedic and in the Emergency Room at two major hospitals, and have seen several of the points brought up in the movie for myself. In this Country, we closely regulate a whole bunch of thing. Utilities, Airlines, etc. Socialized healthcare has it's benefits, and it's drawbacks. Is it the answer for the US? I don't think so. But I do think the Goverment needs to step up and put stricter regulation on healthcare companies, and make sure everybody-whether they're a citizen or not- gets healthcare. This country was founded on the principle of people coming here for better lives for themselves and their families. No one should be denied or unable to access healthcare, and nobody should go broke because of it. For example, a friend works as a contractor for a Pharmasutical company. She flies once a week from NY to San Francisco, stays in a hotel for 3 days, car service everywhere shes goes, etc. Average weekly trip is about $8,000-with coach airfare. This gets billed to the client-the pharma company. Now, couldn't the pharma company, whose medicine is very, very expensive, save by having this department in-house- which they are fully capable of doing, and passing the savings along to people, instead of declaring record profits, having a concert with A list bands for their employees, a beautiful campus, etc etc. Doesn't anyone know senior citizens that are on a fixed income that have to choose between food and medicine? I think that the American economy and healthcare system drives many innovations and cures for diseases. Competition is good. However, every one of our fellow human beings should be able to get treated, for any condition, at any time, regardless of financial or insurance status, without going into debt over it. We're human beings, and we all are in this boat together. Personally, I'm in debt for healthcare costs from an injury that shouldn't even be my responsibilty to pay for in the first place. Hospitals used to be charities. Now, there business's. How can Westchester, who's population has increased, lose several hospitals? Why does that happen? There's something wrong here. It's our jobs to pressure the goverment to fix it. Those who say it's not the goverments problem are probaly also those who must sit home on election day...because then what is the goverment for- to govern?

Apparently it was a minor electrical problem, but I'm not there yet obviously.(fingers crossed) Thanks to everyone for their well wishes, it truly means a lot to Kristen and I. I'm blessed to have found her and true love, and am glad we can celebrate or relationship with all our family and friends this evening. I'm very much looking foward to this evening and our much-needed honeymoon! Thanks again to everybody on this forum, looking back at all the milestones and rough times I've shared oon this forum it truly is quite a community, and a couple of good friends I've made thru this very forum will be in attendance. My Best Man is x901, Groomsmen are HFD23, Bill Rothschild, Jimmy Mulvey (who's father and my father were Police Officers together and in each other's wedding party-in fact Jimmy's dad introduced my parents), and Kristen's brothers Matt and Danny. I'm very happy about the glorious weather, I know that's my father and my grandmother looking down on me. And finally, please understand if you can't get a hold of me for a couple of weeks, and that this site won't be updated.

Great and interesting insight, thanks snotty!!! It's always cool to hear the story behind how the tools of our job came to be...also interesting there's a local connection.