Member Spotlight
Donald Derr
SEPTEMBER 2022 VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
Donald Derr
Deputy Chief
Member since: December 2001
In April of this year Donald Derr was recognized for twenty (20) years of service with Hightstown Engine Company # 1. But his time in the fire service started in 1991 when he decided to join the local fire department in upstate New York. He served his hometown for several years before relocating to New Jersey. In 2001 he joined, where he calls home, Hightstown Engine Company # 1. Since joining, you could find him serving in many different roles throughout the company. For several years he was assigned as the senior driver to the 1989 E One Ladder Truck. With Don’s level of dedication to the ladder he and other members (under his lead) would come home with numerous best in show awards throughout the state and other out of state events. But his passion does not stop with the Ladder. He is a key member of the Departments Award winning Color Guard. While it’s been a few years, you could see him marching leading the Boroughs Memorial Day parade annually. If you have ever used the Fire Companies Hall for an event you may have had him as a bartender or chaperone. For the last several years Donald has moved his way up the line staff to the Deputy Chief position, where he continuously keeps an open eye out for everyone’s safety while training or on incidents. When not being involved with fire department things, Don and his family Stephanie (wife), Katelin (daughter) and his dog Teddy can be found traveling both the states and abroad.
Past Positions: Lieutenant, Assistant Chief, Trustee, Color Guard member , Senior Ladder Driver, Awards Committee
Awards/Citations
Hurst Green Cross Award (2020)
Unit Citation- Water Rescue (2021)
Twenty (20) years of Service (2022)
Visit Hightstown’s Facebook page to read the full story about Rich Mastriano including his first call and his advice for prospective members.
Member Spotlight
Cindy Ward (McClenehan)
December 2021 Volunteer Spotlight
Cindy Ward ( McClenahan)
Firefighter/ Trustee
Member Since: November 2011
Past Positions: Trustee, Cologuard Chair and Memorial chairman
The volunteer fire service is known for its true family roots. Traditionally, Sons follow their Dads on fire engines, while mothers and daughters provide behind the scene support for the departments. Traditional huh? Not Cindy McClenahan, I mean Ward. Firefighting, while mostly a male profession or trade, has approximately 35-40,000 volunteer female firefighters and approximately 6,200 career female firefighters. Cindy at the age of 16 followed the family tradition and joined the firehouse (Princeton Junction) as a junior firefighter and at the age of 18 followed her fathers footsteps by attending Firefighter 1.
Continuing her family’s 50 years of fire service tradition, Cindy calls Hightstown Engine Co. #1 home. While she keeps up with the guys on emergency calls, she also keeps us all in check by overseeing the Company’s outstanding and award winning color guard. If you listen closely on Memorial day, you can hear her calling cadence leading the fire department down main street, and trust me she knows if you step out of line. Additionally Cindy holds a very special organization very close to her heart. Since 2009 she has attended the National Fallen Firefighter Memorial weekend held in Emmitsburg, MD. This weekend honors our fallen brothers and sisters who have died in the line of duty every year. The weekend not only recognizes the fallen individual as well as assists the family with grief counseling and other additional resources. Dennis McClenahan passed away in 2009 after returning home from a call. Cindy and her family return every year to pay tribute to her father and the other fallen members. They also have assisted many other families in their grieving process. When not at the firehouse, Cindy, Jason and Halligan can be found down the beach playing in the sand. For all you Hightstown folks next time you see the beloved mailman (Jason) stop him and ask how incredibly proud he is of his wife.
Visit Hightstown’s Facebook page to read the full story about Cindy Ward (McClenahan) including her most memorable moment and her reason for joining.
Member Spotlight
Rich “Mastro” Mastriano
November 2021 VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
Rich “Mastro” Mastriano
Firefighter, Vice President and Senior Trustee
Member Since May 1974
Past Positions: Fire Engineer, First Aid Lt., Fire Lt., Assistant Chief, Trustee, Vice President.
While not responding to calls with Hightstown Engine Company #1 for the last 47 years, you may find Mastro cruising around on his motorcycle while chasing after his love of trains and Classic Mopar muscle cars. A lifelong resident of the Borough of Hightstown Rich is one of two 40 plus year members that still are active firefighters. Besides his short vacation stay in Florida, Mastro has been a constant figure in the department. Instilling his love for Engine Company work with both the new and old members. He won’t admit it openly, but he still gets a craving to play on the rescue every now and then. Now with much debate with his Fiancé Jenni, you may hear about who’s car is better. His 1970 Plymouth road runner or her 1973 Dodge charger Se 440. But we will stay neutral on that debate. For the residents of Hightstown that come out yearly to support the 9/11 motorcycle run you would be proud to know that Rich represented Hightstown Engine Company # 1 in the 2016 ride. Since the inception of the motorcycle ride, Rich has gathered information and made sure that the department was there to assist and support the ride in any way we can. Fun Fact, if you have ever come to the annual Santa ride at the firehouse you have had the pleasure of seeing his model trains set up for the holiday season.
Certifications: New Jersey Firefighter 1, New Jersey Incident Management Level 3, ICS 200, 300, 400, and NJ DCS Professional Engine Co. Certification (and training far too numerous to mention….)
Awards: 1975 & 1982 Hightstown First Aid Award of Appreciation, 1984 Achievement Award Hightstown First Aid 1989 Distinguished Service Award, Hightstown Eng. Co. #1. Life Member, Hightstown Eng. Co. #1 Life Member NJ Firemen’s Relief Assoc. Life Member, Mercer County Fireman’s Association
Visit Hightstown’s Facebook page to read the full story about Rich Mastriano including his first call and his advice for prospective members.
Member Spotlight
Scott M. Krakowski
“Kracky”
SEPTEMBER 2021 VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
Scott M. Krakowski “Kracky”
Firefighter / EMT / Public Safety Diver
Member Since July 2009
Past Positions: Senior Rescue Diver, Engineer, Lieutenant, Captain, Water Team Leader
Some people are lucky to discover their calling in life, let alone have the opportunity to pursue it as a career. It just so happens that Scott Krakowski was put on this earth to rescue people when they are trapped, hurt, or injured, and we are lucky that he spends his days using that gift. Scott’s love for his family extends outward to his fire family and contributes to his unrelenting desire for excellence. You’d be hard pressed to find a rescuer with more knowledge, and most importantly, a keen ability to quickly analyze a rescue situation and determine the best course of action. Scott’s assessment of these situations is a surgical process and he approaches his life saving work with vigor. Scott has afforded families the opportunity to spend more time with loved ones, to roam this earth in pursuit of their life’s calling, he wards away death with unrivaled intensity. There’s no denying that when Scott climbs onto the Rescue truck, the possibility of a positive outcome increases exponentially. It’s true, not all heroes wear capes, sometimes they appear to us with soot and sweat on their face, wearing turnout gear, a hydraulic tool in their hands, and eyes that tell us everything will be alright because help has arrived.
Certifications: NJ Firefighter 2, NJ Fire Officer 2, NJ Emergency Medical Technician, NJ Fire Instructor Level 1, NJ Drill Ground Instructor, NJ Incident Management Level 3, NJ Hazardous Material Operations, Incident Safety Officer, Health and Safety Officer, National Wildfire Coordinating Group Type 1 Wildland Firefighter, Rapid Intervention Team Technician, Emergency Response Diving International Level 1 Public Safety Diver, National Fire Protection Association Rescue Technician.
Awards: Firefighter of the Year 2011, Multiple Hurst Green Cross Awards and Holmatro Gold Pin Awards. Length of service awards for 5yrs, 7 yrs, and 10yrs.
Visit Hightstown’s Facebook page to read the full story about Scott Krakowski including his first call and his reason for joining.
Member Spotlight
John F. Baldino Jr.
AUGUST 2021 VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
John F. Baldino Jr.
Fire Police and Life Member
Member Since April 4th 1990(31 years of service)
Past Positions: Fire Police Captain and Lieutenant
Far too many of the world’s heroes go unheralded. They fulfill duties that are less glamorous and therefore attract less attention in the public’s eye. In recognizing the legacy of John F. Baldino Jr. we hope to dismantle that narrative and highlight a man who’s heroic deeds have gone unnoticed far too long. Serving as a member of the Fire Police, John has created a niche existence within the department by doing work that is essential for the safe operation of the team’s overall mission. John has notched decades of keeping firefighters and first responders safe from various hazards at emergency scenes. Every time the trucks get out of the station without being blocked by traffic or the unsuspecting pedestrian is prevented from straying in front of a responding apparatus, we have John to thank. The few minutes spared that allowed firefighters to save a life from fire or wreckage, again we have John to thank. John is a stalwart within our department and an example to all of what it means to be a team player; mission over glory.
Awards: Length of service awards for 5yrs, 7 yrs, 10 yrs, and 20 yrs. Life Member Status
Visit Hightstown’s Facebook page to read the full story about John F. Baldino Jr. including his first fire and the reason he joined.
Member Spotlight
Mark Madonia
JUNE 2021 VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
Mark Madonia
Firefighter & Trustee
Member Since July 1988 (33 years this July)
Past Positions: President, Vice President, Captain, and Trustee
If you are looking for someone committed to the health and safety of the community, look no further. Mark Madonia has dedicated much of his life’s work volunteering for various fire and EMS organizations throughout his journey. Not only does Mark serve within these organizations, more importantly he is willing to rise to the challenge of various positions that are necessary in order for them to function properly. Mark takes a great deal of pride in the work that he does, which is evidenced through his years of commitment in the Color Guard, a space in which his keen eye for detail truly comes to fruition. This detailed oriented approach will be a lasting legacy in all the departments that Mark has served.
Certifications: Firefighter I, EMT, Fire Official, Hazmat Ops/Awareness, IMS Level 1, 2, and 3, Open Water Diver
Awards: 25 year Life Member Status
Committees: Color Guard, Bylaw Committee, Membership Committee, Cigar Dinner Committee, Rescue Truck Committee, Uniform Committee, Dive Team.
Past/Current Agencies: Served with the South Old Bridge Vol. Fire Department from 1980 to 1988. A member of the Old Bridge First Aid & Rescue Squad and Hightstown First Aid Squad. Captain, Trustee, and current President of the Hightstown Rescue Squad since 2009.
Visit Hightstown’s Facebook page to read the full story about Mark Madonia including his first fire and the reason he joined.
Member Spotlight
William R. Havens
“Haves”
FEBRUARY 2021 VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
William R. Havens (Haves)
Firefighter & Lifetime Member
Member Since 1986
If there’s one quote that accurately summarizes Bill Havens it is this, when asked about the decades of emergencies Haves has operated on and the lives he has saved his response was simple; “I did what I did, and that was it.” This sentiment represents the larger ethos of the Hightstown Fire Department, men and women deeply humble in their heroic deeds. Given the amount of time and energy that Haves has spent building the camaraderie and sense of family within our department over the years, it should come as no surprise that his humble values have proliferated amongst the ranks.
Billy Havens, better known more affectionately by his nickname “Haves”, is a second generation firefighter in Hightstown, carrying forward the proud legacy of his father William Havens Sr. The hallmark attribute of Bill Havens is his ability to bring people together. Haves understands the importances of a shared meal amongst our firefighter family whether it be at the firefighter convention in Wildwood, in the hall at the firehouse, or around the firepit in his yard. Haves creates spaces for members of the company to bond, tell stories, and become closer in their pursuit to serve the community. We continue to benefit as a fire department from Haves’ family oriented approach which extends from the love he has for his own family in his beloved children and wife.
Certifications: Firefighter I, Pumps Operations, Hazmat Operations, ICS 100 and 200, CPR, Advanced Self Contained Breathing Apparatus, Advanced Vehicle Extrication
Awards: Firefighter of the Year 1992
Committees: Parade Committee, Junior Firefighters, Golf Outing, Hall Committee, Bar Committee, 185th Anniversary Parade Committee.
Visit Hightstown’s Facebook page to read the full story about Bill Havens including his first fire and the reason he joined.
Member Spotlight
Matt Lawson
JANUARY 2021 VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
Matthew C. Lawson
Firefighter
Member Since 2014
If you ever have the pleasure of meeting Matt Lawson you’ll find him to be a jovial person. You’ll always find Matt with a smile on his face and positivity emanating from his soul. On a fire or rescue scene, Matt is all business, he’s mission oriented from the moment the call comes out. This striking juxtaposition is unique, it’s also core to what makes Matt such a good firefighter, he’s exactly the right person you want in an emergency. Beyond making him an uplifting teammate and reliable firefighter, these same attributes are also what make Matt an outstanding member of our community.
Certifications: Firefighter I, Firefighter II, Rapid Intervention Team (RIT), Vehicle Extrication Operations, Swiftwater Operations, Ice Water Technician, Pump Operations, Hazmat Operations, Vacant Buildings Awareness, Arson Detection Awareness, Drill Ground Instructor, ICS 100 & 200.
Awards: 5-year award, Holmatro “distinguished life saving effort” certificate 2018
Committees: Membership, Memorial, Christmas Trees, and Color Guard
Past/Current Agencies: Hightstown Engine Co. No. 1, Hightstown First Aid, Roosevelt Fire Company, Princeton Fire Department
Favorite Quote: “You’re doing it wrong!” -Brian McCaffrey Backdraft
Visit Hightstown’s Facebook page to read the full story about Matt Lawson including his first fire and the reason he joined.
2021 Volunteer Spotlights
JANUARY 2021 VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
Matthew C. Lawson
Firefighter
Member Since 2014
If you ever have the pleasure of meeting Matt Lawson you’ll find him to be a jovial person. You’ll always find Matt with a smile on his face and positivity emanating from his soul. On a fire or rescue scene, Matt is all business, he’s mission oriented from the moment the call comes out. This striking juxtaposition is unique, it’s also core to what makes Matt such a good firefighter, he’s exactly the right person you want in an emergency. Beyond making him an uplifting teammate and reliable firefighter, these same attributes are also what make Matt an outstanding member of our community.
Certifications: Firefighter I, Firefighter II, Rapid Intervention Team (RIT), Vehicle Extrication Operations, Swiftwater Operations, Ice Water Technician, Pump Operations, Hazmat Operations, Vacant Buildings Awareness, Arson Detection Awareness, Drill Ground Instructor, ICS 100 & 200.
Awards: 5-year award, Holmatro “distinguished life saving effort” certificate 2018
Committees: Membership, Memorial, Christmas Trees, and Color Guard
Past/Current Agencies: Hightstown Engine Co. No. 1, Hightstown First Aid, Roosevelt Fire Company, Princeton Fire Department
Favorite Quote: “You’re doing it wrong!” -Brian McCaffrey Backdraft
Visit Hightstown’s Facebook page to read the full story about Matt Lawson including his first fire and the reason he joined.
FEBRUARY 2021 VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
William R. Havens (Haves)
Firefighter & Lifetime Member
Member Since 1986
If there’s one quote that accurately summarizes Bill Havens it is this, when asked about the decades of emergencies Haves has operated on and the lives he has saved his response was simple; “I did what I did, and that was it.” This sentiment represents the larger ethos of the Hightstown Fire Department, men and women deeply humble in their heroic deeds. Given the amount of time and energy that Haves has spent building the camaraderie and sense of family within our department over the years, it should come as no surprise that his humble values have proliferated amongst the ranks.
Billy Havens, better known more affectionately by his nickname “Haves”, is a second generation firefighter in Hightstown, carrying forward the proud legacy of his father William Havens Sr. The hallmark attribute of Bill Havens is his ability to bring people together. Haves understands the importances of a shared meal amongst our firefighter family whether it be at the firefighter convention in Wildwood, in the hall at the firehouse, or around the firepit in his yard. Haves creates spaces for members of the company to bond, tell stories, and become closer in their pursuit to serve the community. We continue to benefit as a fire department from Haves’ family oriented approach which extends from the love he has for his own family in his beloved children and wife.
Certifications: Firefighter I, Pumps Operations, Hazmat Operations, ICS 100 and 200, CPR, Advanced Self Contained Breathing Apparatus, Advanced Vehicle Extrication
Awards: Firefighter of the Year 1992
Committees: Parade Committee, Junior Firefighters, Golf Outing, Hall Committee, Bar Committee, 185th Anniversary Parade Committee.
Visit Hightstown’s Facebook page to read the full story about Bill Havens including his first fire and the reason he joined.
JUNE 2021 VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
Mark Madonia
Firefighter & Trustee
Member Since July 1988 (33 years this July)
Past Positions: President, Vice President, Captain, and Trustee
If you are looking for someone committed to the health and safety of the community, look no further. Mark Madonia has dedicated much of his life’s work volunteering for various fire and EMS organizations throughout his journey. Not only does Mark serve within these organizations, more importantly he is willing to rise to the challenge of various positions that are necessary in order for them to function properly. Mark takes a great deal of pride in the work that he does, which is evidenced through his years of commitment in the Color Guard, a space in which his keen eye for detail truly comes to fruition. This detailed oriented approach will be a lasting legacy in all the departments that Mark has served.
Certifications: Firefighter I, EMT, Fire Official, Hazmat Ops/Awareness, IMS Level 1, 2, and 3, Open Water Diver
Awards: 25 year Life Member Status
Committees: Color Guard, Bylaw Committee, Membership Committee, Cigar Dinner Committee, Rescue Truck Committee, Uniform Committee, Dive Team.
Past/Current Agencies: Served with the South Old Bridge Vol. Fire Department from 1980 to 1988. A member of the Old Bridge First Aid & Rescue Squad and Hightstown First Aid Squad. Captain, Trustee, and current President of the Hightstown Rescue Squad since 2009.
Visit Hightstown’s Facebook page to read the full story about Mark Madonia including his first fire and the reason he joined.
AUGUST 2021 VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
John F. Baldino Jr.
Fire Police and Life Member
Member Since April 4th 1990(31 years of service)
Past Positions: Fire Police Captain and Lieutenant
Far too many of the world’s heroes go unheralded. They fulfill duties that are less glamorous and therefore attract less attention in the public’s eye. In recognizing the legacy of John F. Baldino Jr. we hope to dismantle that narrative and highlight a man who’s heroic deeds have gone unnoticed far too long. Serving as a member of the Fire Police, John has created a niche existence within the department by doing work that is essential for the safe operation of the team’s overall mission. John has notched decades of keeping firefighters and first responders safe from various hazards at emergency scenes. Every time the trucks get out of the station without being blocked by traffic or the unsuspecting pedestrian is prevented from straying in front of a responding apparatus, we have John to thank. The few minutes spared that allowed firefighters to save a life from fire or wreckage, again we have John to thank. John is a stalwart within our department and an example to all of what it means to be a team player; mission over glory.
Awards: Length of service awards for 5yrs, 7 yrs, 10 yrs, and 20 yrs. Life Member Status
Visit Hightstown’s Facebook page to read the full story about John F. Baldino Jr. including his first fire and the reason he joined.
Executive Officers
President: Ryan Bennett
Vice President: Stephanie Derr
Secretary: Chip Sugg
Treasurer: Gary Evers
Corresponding Secretary: Emliy Miller
Asst. Treasurer: Alexandria Seip
Trustees: Mark Madonia,
Cindy McClenahan-Ward,
Richard Mastriano
Line Officers
Fire Chief: Donald Derr
Deputy Chief: Kevin Brink
Assistant Chief: Gary Evers
Captain: Joe Seip
Captain: Scott Krakowski
Ladies Auxiliary
President : Brenda Snook
Vice President : Jennifer Havens
Treasurer : Nancy Boguszewski
Recording Secretary : Carin Morrell
Corresponding Secretary : Laura Vonvorys
Trustees: Jessica Havens,
Carol MacLennan,
Margaret Storey
Chaplain : Carol MacLennan
Click HERE to apply to join Hightstown Engine Co No 1