Born in Hicksville but raised in East Northport, Carolyn Schatzberg has dedicated over a decade of service to the Plainview Volunteer Fire Department. As President of the Ladies Auxiliary since 2010, Carolyn plays a vital role in supporting the department's operations and community efforts.

Under Carolyn's leadership, the Auxiliary has evolved to meet the changing needs of the fire service. They now coordinate essential services like providing meals during trainings and lengthy fire calls, as well as hosting the annual children's holiday party. Carolyn's passion for the fire department runs deep - her husband Evan is the 1st Deputy Chief, and the Schatzberg family has a long history of involvement.

Outside of the firehouse, Carolyn indulges her diverse interests, from playing the bagpipes with Tara Pipes & Drums to sewing (earning her the high school nickname "Crayon"). As she steps down from her officer role this year, Carolyn looks forward to supporting the next generation of Auxiliary volunteers and staying involved as an active member.

Sitting with me in the Firehouse is Francisco Soto. Answering the call to serve, Francisco Soto has dedicated the last 14 years of his life to the Uniondale Fire Department. As a member of Engine Company No. 2 in Brookside, Francisco's journey began when a close friend encouraged him to visit the firehouse. What he discovered was an unbreakable brotherhood that instantly felt like home. Now the first in his family to don the uniform, Francisco's unwavering commitment and the steadfast support of his company propelled him through the ranks, from firefighter to captain. With his sights set on continued growth, Francisco's drive and leadership skills have earned him the respect of his peers and the trust of the community he proudly protects.

Sitting with me in the Firehouse is Jehanne Roy. Fearless and always ready to spring into action, Jay Roy is a true hometown hero. As a 5-year member of the Roslyn Rescue Hook & Ladder Co # 1, Jay has risen through the ranks, now serving as the 1st EMS Lieutenant since 2023. When she's not battling blazes, Jay applies her lifesaving skills as a Registered Nurse specializing in Critical Care in the Medical ICU.

Social Media : Instagram @Jay.nkr

Sitting with me in the Firehouse is Bobby Tolley. Bobby Tolley's life has been defined by a deep commitment to service. Growing up in a military family, he followed in their footsteps, serving twice in the military over 13 years, including a decade in the special operations world. But tragedy struck when his brother William, a notable firefighter, passed away in the line of duty. Devastated, Bobby channeled his grief into founding the Fire and Drums Foundation, which provides financial support to families of first responders and military members enduring similar tragedies. Through this lasting legacy, Bobby ensures his brother William's memory will never be forgotten.

Sitting with me in the Firehouse is William Rodriguez. A lifelong champion of his Uniondale community, William A. Rodriguez has dedicated himself to making a difference. After graduating from Uniondale High School in 2013, he quickly rose through the ranks, transitioning from a cashier at Dollar Tree to a Community Coordinator for the Queens District Attorney's Office. But William's commitment to public service didn't stop there - in 2017, he became a volunteer firefighter, discovering that the true heart of the fire department lies in its sense of family and legacy. Through his unwavering dedication, William continues to leave an indelible mark, inspiring those around him with his passion for helping others.

Sitting with me in the Firehouse is Brianna Torres. Brianna has been saving lives for over a decade as a dedicated EMT. For the past 9 years, she has served her community through her work with the Mineola Volunteer Ambulance Corps (MVAC), where she currently holds the role of President. In this position, Brianna leverages her social media skills to keep the community informed and engaged. When she's not responding to 911 calls, you can find Brianna sharing her passion for emergency services on her personal Instagram @briannamarie823.

Sitting with me in the Firehouse is Malechi Whethers. At just 13 years old, Malechi is already making a name for himself as a junior firefighter with the Hempstead Fire Department. Despite his young age, Malechi's passion for the fire service ignited at an early age, as he was captivated by the sight of fire trucks rushing through his neighborhood. Now, after joining the junior program at age 12, Malechi is well on his way to a promising career in firefighting, with the full support of his family who prioritize his safety above all else.

Sitting with me in The Firehouse is Eddie Overton. From the firehouse to the frontlines, Eddie Overton has dedicated his life to serving his community. Appointed as a Fire Alarm Dispatcher with the FDNY in 2005, Overton spent a decade working in the borough of Manhattan, responding to notable incidents like the Cory Lidle Plane Crash. His exemplary work earned him a promotion to Supervising Fire Alarm Dispatcher in 2019, where he covered the city during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Now based in Queens, Overton continues to lead with distinction.

Overton's commitment to public service runs deep - it's a family legacy. As a teenager, he joined the Uniondale Junior Fire Department, rising through the ranks to Lieutenant and Captain. His heroic actions were recognized with citations from the county and town, including a rescue of a wheelchair-bound civilian. Overton's volunteer work continued as a member of the Brookside Engine Company for nearly two decades. Most recently, he joined the Excelsior Hook & Ladder Company #1 of the Freeport Fire Department, carrying on his family's proud tradition of service.