Photos: Island Park hosts annual junior firefighter tournament on the beach

Posted Friday, July 4, 2025 8:55 am

Island Park marched with pride at the parade before the John Fabrizio Old-Fashioned Junior Firefighter’s Tournament last Friday.

Ainsley Keir/Herald

Two-year-old Gavin Rodahan, six-year-old Shannon Rodahan, and their grandmother, Marilyn Rodahan got to explore the Island Park Fire Department.

Ainsley Keir/Herald

It was all fun and games as youngsters explored the fire truck.

Ainsley Keir/Herald

Four-year-old Mavrik Gottlieb had some big shoes to fill.

Ainsley Keir/Herald

Seven-year-old Maya Madden suited up for some firefighting fun.

Ainsley Keir/Herald

By Kepherd Daniel

Fire department fun was on full display as the Island Park Fire Department held its annual John Fabrizio Old-Fashioned Junior Firefighter’s Tournament at Masone Beach on Friday.

The event opened with a parade from Fire Department Headquarters to the beach, where junior firefighters participated in a series of fire service drills. These demonstrations, designed to highlight fundamental skills, reflected the dedication and training of the department’s youngest recruits.

Mayor Michael McGinty, the Village Board of Trustees, and former Congressman Anthony D’Esposito were in attendance, cheering on the participants and celebrating the legacy of volunteer service in Island Park.

Residents enjoyed an evening by the water, rallying behind the junior firefighters and honoring the commitment of the local volunteer department.

With future firefighters already demonstrating heart and skill, Island Park’s safety—and its sense of community—remain in good hands.

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