CONDOLENCES
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Our deepest sympathy and condolences to the friends and family of Zigmund "Ozzy" Ozimkowski, who passed away June 22, 2009. Ozzy was father to former Hamtramck Firefighter Dan Ozimkowski. Ozzy was a FireFighter for the City of Hamtramck for 30 years. Memorial Mass Saturday 11 a.m. at St. Ronald Church, 17701 15 Mile Rd. (Between Groesbeck and Garfiled). Memorials to Hospice of Michigan or Alzheimer's Association appreciated. Share memories with the family at their "On Line Guest Book". |
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SLEZAK FUNDRAISER
 Former Hamtramck Firefighter and current Sterling Heights Firefighter, Chris Slezak was recently diagnosed with Adult Lymphocytic Leukemia. He is currently undergoing chemotherapy. Chris is a loving husband and father of three and has dedicated his life to serving the community. Please click here to check the Sterling Heights Firefighters website for various events to benefit Chris and his family including a Bone Marrown Donor Program on June 19-20 at the Sterling Heights Station #5 on Ryan Rd, (the test only takes 10 minutes and is only swab to the cheek!), other events include a Wine Tasting, Bowling and a Hair Cut-A-Thon. We hope everyone can take a moment to help out; donations can be sent to: SLEZAK FAMILY ASSISTANCE FUND 41632 Stonehenge Manor Drive, Clinton Township, MI 48038 |
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NEW BOOTS
 On March 27, 2009 the Hamtramck Fire Department added Jason Abbey to its ranks as a Probationary Firefighter. Jason has served with the Fenton Fire Department and other Fire Department's in the past.On June 17, 2009 Dennis Wolfe joined the Hamtramck Fire as a Probationary Firefighter. Dennies has served with the various Fire Department's including Highland Park and Macomb Twp. Both Jason and Dennis are now members of the full time, professional Hamtramck Fire Department and hold the rank of Firefighter 1 and must complete a one year probationary period. Both "boots" were sworn in by Judge Paul Paruk of Hamtramck's 31st District Court under the leadership of Hamtramck Fire Chief Steve Paruk. More pics. |
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ST. FLORIAN TOMB & MARCH
 The Pastor of St. Florian Church once again asked the Hamtramck Firefighters to hold a special guard over the tomb of Jesus on Holy Saturday, the Saturday before Easter ( this year it fell on April 11). It's a tradition in parts of Poland for Firefighters to take this special watch. Click here for pictures.The 11th Annual St. Florian March and Mass was held on May 2 - St. Florian is the patron saint of firefighters. Hamtramck is proud to be the home of St. Florian Church and has welcomed us with this annual march and mass. Pictures from this year are here. Thanks to all those that participated including Southfield, Windsor, Detroit, Ann Arbor, Frenchtown, Eastpointe all the others. |
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PROMOTIONS
 Congratulations go out to four Hamtramck Firefighters who were promoted today. Steve Paruk was promoted to Fire Chief, Paul Wilk to Fire Marshal, Paul Sharon to Lieutenant and Andrew Oleksiak to Motor Engineer. Steve has been with the Hamtramck Fire Department for 24 years, Paul Wilk for 18, Paul Sharon for 22 and Andrew for three. Both Chief Paruk and Fire Marshal Wilk have served with the Hamtramck Firefighters Executive Board, Paul Sharon is a former Firefighter of the Year and Andrew is a current union Steward. They fill a long standing vacancy from within the department. All were sworn in by Hamtramck City 31st District Court Judge Paul Paruk (Steve's brother) in the 31st District Court room. More Photos |
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PACZKI DAY
 Fat Tuesday brings us another Paczki Day – the delicious Polish “super” doughnut that brings long lines to bakeries throughout Hamtramck, MI. The Hamtramck Firefighters with the New Dodge Lounge present the First Annual Paczki Cup, an eating contest featuring delicious New Deluxe Bakery Paczki to be held shortly after noon on February 24, 2009.The Hamtramck Firefighters will be at the New Dodge Lounge all Fat Tuesday providing their “World Famous” mugs, t-shirts and paczki. Entertainment from The Polish Muslims, Jotown, Square Pegs and other bands will be playing throughout the day – and once again WRIF radio (101.1 FM) will be broadcasting live. The fun starts at 7:00 AM and lasts all day long. Entry for the Paczki Cup starts at 9:00 AM and is limited to 5 contestants. This year’s champion will have their name inscribed on the “Paczki Cup” and win 4 tickets to a Detroit Pistons game; second place will receive tickets to a show at the Gem Theater. Runner’s up will be provided gift packs provided by Jagermeister and others. Paczki Day (aka Fat Tuesday/Mardi Gras) is February 24th, New Dodge Lounge is at 8850 Jos. Campau (map). |
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PROMOTIONS & NEW BOOT
 Congratulations go out to two Hamtramck Firefighters who were promoted today. Greg McBryar was promoted to Lieutenant, and Mike Crandall to Motor Engineer. Greg has been with the Hamtramck Fire Department since July, 1990 and Mike since September, 1999 - both have served as a union executive board members. They fill vacancies created by the retirement of Mark Sylvester. All were sworn in by Hamtramck City Clerk T. Edwin Norris. We also extend a warm welcome to Jonathon Davis as he also was sworn in by Mr. Norris to join the Hamtramck Fire Department as a probationary Fire Fighter! More Photos |
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SYLVESTER TO RETIRE
 Lieutentant Sly's last day of work is officially January 28th, 2009 after over 25 years serving with the Hamtramck Fire Department as a Firefighter, Motor Engineer and Lieutenant (and with Hamtramck DPW). Mark has served as Hamtramck Firefighters Association President, Chairman of Goodfellow and was honored as Firefighter of the Year.Details for a retirement party honoring Lt. Mark "Sly" Sylvester. The party is slated for February 28th at the Polish Sea League in Hamtramck (map); $10 includes a buffet style dinner of old Firehouse favorites and cocktails. Polish Sea League is located on Edwin Street on the northeast corner of Brombach (about 1/2 mile south of the Hamtramck Fire Station. Persons attending are kindly asked to RSVP or purchase tickets by contacting Lt. Greg McBryar at the Hamtramck Fire Station at (313) 876-7778. |
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THE BIG GAME – SUPER SUNDAY
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THE BIG GAME – SUPER SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2009 Come watch the big game with your Hamtramck Firefighters! Our big screen televisions will show the big game from pre-game to post-game! A full meal, snacks and drinks (beer, wine & pop) are included. More fun and excitement will be also available! $30 GETS YOU IN & INCLUDES: Food (Full meal and snacks!) Drinks (beer, wine, pop included) Watch the big game on our big screens! Prizes & More available! POLISH AMERICAN CENTURY CLUB 33204 Maple Lane Sterling Heights, Michigan 48312 (Hoover Rd. turns into Maple Lane as you cross north over 14 Mile Rd. We are the east driveway approximately 1/8 Mile north of 14 mile Rd) Doors open at 4:00 PM. Call Jim Carden for details (313 876-7778) Print out our flyer here. |
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A&R PACKING FIRE
 On Sunday December 2nd, 2008 fire struck A&R Packing on Andrus & Lumpkin streets. E-1, E-2 and R-1 responded with the on duty unit 1 crew. An "all hands" call-in crew of firefighters spent the night at the scene fighting the blace with assistance from Highland Park.From the Detroit Free Press (also see WXYZ-TV) Fire destroyed part of a Hamtramck pork processing plant, forcing firefighters to battle the blaze surrounded by pigs’ feet and hocks. Members of a four-person cleaning crew at A and R Packing, 2211 Andrus, noticed smoke coming from the roof in the back corner of the building at 9:30 p.m. Tuesday, Hamtramck Fire Capt. Ron Cichecki said. They tried to douse the area of the more than 40-year-old building with a fire extinguisher. But flames quickly spread through the facility, which cleans, smokes and packages pigs’ feet, hocks and necks and other pork products. Most of a storage and processing building was destroyed, Cichecki said. But the building across the alley, just east of I-75 near the Holbrook exit, that houses the plant’s refrigeration equipment was undamaged, he said. Click here for photos from Dennis Walus. Thanks to Mr. Walus for sharing pictures his with us, please visit is his website: Detroit Firepix. (More pics over at Hamtramck Star). Video from YouTube user gmanore: |
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CONDOLENCES
 Our deepest condolences to the friends and family of Walt Harris. The Detroit firefighter was killed in the line of duty at a house fire on November 15th, 2008. He was stationed just south of Hamtramck at Detroit Engine Company #23.From the Detroit Free Press: Detroit firefighter. Husband. Father of six. Minister. Motorcyclist. Real estate agent. Mentor. Mediator. Engine-house cook. Walter Harris was a busy man, and his family and friends say those descriptions only begin to capture someone they remember wrapping his huge arms around them in loving hugs, shaking with loud belly laughs and asking, before meals: “You mind if we say grace?” His son, James Hill Harris, also a Detroit firefighter, said his father was “big, strong, a protector. He showed me what a real man is.” Harris, 37, died early Saturday morning when a roof collapsed on him during a fire in a vacant house on Detroit’s east side. Officials said the blaze was deliberately set. Four other firefighters were treated and released at Receiving Hospital. Harris was a 17-year DFD veteran who had spent his entire career in the 109-year-old station on E. Grand Boulevard west of Mt. Elliott that houses Rescue Squad 3 and Engine Co. 23. He was to have been promoted to sergeant in the coming weeks. From Michigan Professional Fire Fighters: We regret to inform you of the death of Walter P. Harris Senior Firefighter Engine 23, 6th Battalion (Active) Lived: 9/11/70 to 11/15/2008 Served: 3/11/1991 to 11/15/2008 Died in the line of duty. Visitation: Community Christian Fellowship 8131 E. Outer Dr. Detroit, MI. 48213 Thursday, November, 20, 2008; 4 to 9 pm. Service: Second Ebenezer Church 14601 Dequindre St. Detroit, MI. 48212 Friday, November 21, 2008; 10:00 am. |
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HAUNTED BOWLING WRAP UP
 We'd like to thank everyone for making our 2008 Haunted Bowling Event the most successful yet! Regal Lanes was again packed full with the most bowlers we've had at our bowling fundraiser. We'd like to thank everyone for showing up and filling the house! Congrats to Bob & Tiffany for grabbing best costume. Special thanks to this years sponsors:
And an extra thank you to the following for their assistance: Nicole Diamond, Nicole Carden, Jennifer Tiedt, Michelle Trzin & Jessi Poljanac, Tony & Steve of DC Sports. Pics posted!! Click here for pictures from this year's Haunted Bowling! Also available: 2007 and 2006. | ||||||||||||||||||
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BASKETBALL CHALLENGE
 vs. Hamtramck Firefighters Date: Wednesday, November 13th Come cheer on your favorite Hamtramck Public School Teacher or Staff Member as they take on Hamtramck’s finest Fire Fighters on the court! This night is guaranteed to be exciting! Don’t miss out! Concessions will be sold. All proceeds from this event will go to the Hamtramck Good Fellows. This event is presented by the Hamtramck Recreation Department. For more information please call 313-893-5520 or visit the High School Community Center at 11350 Charest. |
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HELPING MDA
 The Hamtramck Fire Department battled more than fires as firemen collected $2,075 in their “Fill the Boot” campaign to combat neuromuscular diseases. Firefighters from Hamtramck volunteered their time August 31st to ask passing pedestrians and motorists in Downtown Hamtramck to make donations to support the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA). They also held their 1st annual charity golf outing at St. Johns Golf Club in Plymouth, MI on August 8th, 2008, with proceeds going to support MDA.Click here to read the entire press release from the Muscular Dystrophy Association. |
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WORLD FAMOUS
 Your World Famous Hamtramck Firefighters return to the 2008 Hamtramck Festival! The Festival will be held Labor Day Weekend, Friday August 29th through Monday September 1st. We will be serving beer and drinks in our world famous mugs and our t-shirts will also be available both in a new 2008 design... our world famous chili will be available in a limited basis (first come, first serve!!) - so get there early!This is the 28th Annual Hamtramck Festival and we will be in our usual spot on Holmes at Jos. Campau. We hope to see you there! Pics from last year are posted here. |
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HAUNTED BOWLING
 It's another night of haunted fun at the bowling alley! On Saturday, October 25th at Regal Lanes (map; In Warren, on Mound Rd. just north of I-696), the Hamtramck Firefighters will be having another fun and exciting evening of bowling! Tickets are available nowOnce again, $25 gets you three games with 9-Pin No Tap, door prizes, Mystery, Pizza, Pop and more... Strike Ball, 50/50 will also be available. Costumes are not required - but are very welcomed (prize for best costume). Check in starts at 9:00 PM, with bowling generally starting after 9:30. For details call (or e-mail) John Dropchuk at the Hamtramck Firehouse: 313-876-7778. Lane sponsorships range from $75-$150 --please click here for our sponsorship information. Please print out our bowling flyer and post it somewhere. Click here for pictures from last year's Haunted Bowling or here from 2006! |
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ASBESTOS AWARENESS
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If you happen live in a house that was built before the 1970s, there’s a good chance that asbestos was used in its construction. Even if your house was built since then, asbestos may still be found in some areas. In fact, only houses built within the last 10 years or so should be free of insulating asbestos, although it could very easily have been used in other forms. This knowledge may instill fear in many homeowners, but, a little knowledge can reduce anxiety. Once the background and use of asbestos is known, the homeowner should be able to recognize potentially dangerous situations. After being informed about the ways in which asbestos must be safely handled, the homeowner can be assured that proper safeguards are being taken. With widely prevalent asbestos use in construction during the early part of the 1900’s, and in hundreds of products since then, it’s been the subject of much research. Much has been learned about it and the threats it can pose. Inhalation of asbestos is the only known cause of pleural mesothelioma, a rare cancer that affects the lining of the lungs. Continue reading here or learn more about asbestos by clicking the banner below: |
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GOLF OUTING
 The Hamtramck Firefighters Local 750 are pleased to invite you to the First Annual Golf Outing and Benefit. This event will be August 8, 2008 and held at:St. Johns Golf Course (map)Registration due by July 1, 2008 For questions please call Hamtramck Fire 313-876-7778 or the event coordinator Michael Young 248-789-3623 or e-mail mikeyallen2420@yahoo.com. For more details and info, please look at our flyer. Click here for photos. |
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MCDOUGALL STREET FIRE
 On Sunday March 16th, 2008 fire struck this house on McDougall Street, just south of Carpenter - near the Hamtramck/Detroit border. E-1, E-2 and R-1 responded with the on duty unit 2 crew.Click here for photos from Paul Bassett. Thanks to Mr. Bassett for sharing pictures his with us. More pics from this fire are available, please click here for photos from Rick Nohl of EmergencyServiceImages.com. Thanks to Mr. Nohl for sharing pictures his with us. |
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ST. FLORIAN MARCH & MASS
 This years annual St. Florian Firefighter March and Mass will be held on May 3rd.March leaves Hamtramck firehouse at about 3:00 PM - march participants should arrive early!! Mass starts at 4 PM (you are not obligated to attend or participate in mass). Other details will be announced shortly. For a brief history of the event and about the origins of St. Florian please click here. |
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APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED
From the City of Hamtramck website:
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PROMOTIONS & NEW BOOT
 Congratulations go out to three Hamtramck Firefighters who were promoted today. Ron Cichecki was promoted to Captain, Mark Swider promoted to Lieutenant and John Dropchuk to Motor Engineer. Ron has been with the Hamtramck Fire Department since May, 1993, Mark since December, 1986 and John since August 1999 - all have served as a union executive board members. They fill vacancies created by the retirement of Andy Lorio. All were sworn in by Hamtramck District Court Judge Paul Paruk. We also extend a warm welcome to Justin Wynne as he also was sworn in by Judge Paruk to join the Hamtramck Fire Department as a probationary Fire Fighter! |
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CONDOLENCES
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Our deepest sympathy and condolences to the friends and family of Stanley Kmiec, who passed away January 21, 2008. Stanley served with the Hamtramck Fire Department where he retired as a lieutenant in February 1980, he also served with various other veteran organizations and was a long time member of the Hamtramck Goodfellows. He will be laid out at the Krot Funeral home on Wednesday 2-8 (prayer service at 6:30), funeral will be Thursday at 10:00 at St. Ladislaus. |
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PACZKI DAY
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The Hamtramck Firefighters will be taking over the 3141 Bar (formerly the Locker Room) this Paczki Day; the bar is located on the corner of Caniff & Charest streets. We'll be throwing a party that includes our famous firehouse chili, jello shots, drink specials, entertainment, contests... there's gonna be some of those famous "paczki" donuts there, too! Paczki Day (aka Fat Tuesday/Mardi Gras) is February 5th, the 3141 Bar is located at 3141 Caniff (map), the fun starts at 7 AM and runs all day. |
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LORIO RETIRES
 Details for a retirement party honoring Captain Andy Lorio. The party is slated for March 15th at the Polish Sea League in Hamtramck (map); tickets are available now at through the Hamtramck Firefighters for $5.Captain Lorio's last day of work is officially January 10th, 2008 after over 31 years serving with the Hamtramck Fire Department as a Firefighter, Motor Engineer, Lieutenant and as a Captain. You can call the firehouse at 313 876-7778 for tickets and more details. |
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LEHMAN STREET FIRE
 Just before noon on Saturday, December 15th, fire struck this occupied house on Lehman Street between Gallagher and Conant. A five men crew initially responded with E-1 and E-2; Rescue 2 was on a medical call at the time of the run and responded shortly afterward; E-1 was sent back to quarters to respond with the Aerial Tower and an extra crew was also called in. Fire spread to the attic of the house to the west but was quickly contained, water supply was again an issue as the crew dealt with hydrant problems.Click here for photos from Dan Jasina. Thanks to Mr. Jasina for once again sharing pictures with us. |
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HIPPO'S KIDS
 On Friday the Hamtramck Firefighters responded with Santa Claus! A yearly tradition, Santa arrived to visit with "Hippo's Kids: a group of special needs children organized by school employee and local tavern owner John "Hippo" Hypnarowicz and his wife Mary. Santa took pictures with the kids and passed out presents. The Hamtramck Firefighters assisted along with other volunteers and entertainers. Pictures here. |
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BURGER STREET FIRE
 At about 4 AM on November 24th, fire struck this house on Burger Street near Fleming - across the street from Kosciouszko Middle School. A seven man crew responded with E-1, E-2 and Rescue 1; E-1 was sent back to quarters to respond with the Aerial Tower. An extra crew was also called for and the oncoming shift also responded for relief - the initial response crew was finally released at 9:00 am. Both flats of this two-story home were occupied - our response was hindered by the original call coming in as a fight.Click here for photos from Larry Garcia - of Venu Pix. Thanks to Mr. Garcia for sharing these pictures. |
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CONDOLENCES
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Our deepest sympathy and condolences to the friends and family of Ted Morawski, who passed away November 9, 2007. Ted served with the Hamtramck Fire Department where he retired as a captain. He will be laid out at the Jurkiewicz-Wilk Funeral home (corner of Caniff & Brombach) on Sunday 5-9, Monday 1-9 (prayer service at 6:30), funeral will be Tuesday at 9:30. |
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BOWLING WRAP UP
 We'd like to thank everyone for making our 2007 Haunted Bowling Event the most successful yet! Regal Lanes was jam packed with the most bowlers we've had at our annual bowling fundraiser. We'd like to thank eveyone for showing up and packing the house! Congrats to Eric & Michelle for grabbing best costume. Special thanks to this years sponsors:
Sterling Services, Detroit Pistons, Detroit Lions, Detroit Red Wings, Buddys Pizza, Dave & Buster's, Panera Bread, Little Caesars, Bavarian Inn, Under the Eagle, Zerelli Bakery, New Dodge Lounge, Joanne McBryar, New Palace, Detroit Threads, Sen. Carl Levin, Donna Evans (Housing), Cathy Gordon (New Dodge), Polish Art Center, Srodek's, Michelle Trzin, Shelly Scott, Whiskey in the Jar, Turtles, Stan's Grocery, A&C, Keg & Bottle! And an extra thank you to the following for their assistance: Nicole Diamond, Nikki Comfort, Lisa Dombrowski, Shelly Scott, Victoria Guy, Jennifer Tiedt, Michelle Trzin, Tony of DC Sports. Pics posted here (press play button in lower right to begin). | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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BASKETBALL CHALLENGE
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Pics posted vs. Hamtramck Firefighters Date: Wednesday, November 14th Come cheer on your favorite Hamtramck Public School Teacher or Staff Member as they take on Hamtramck’s bravest Fire Fighters on the court! This night is guaranteed to be exciting! Don’t miss out! Concessions will be sold. All proceeds from this event will go to the Hamtramck Goodfellow. This event is presented by the Hamtramck Recreation Department. For more information please call 313-893-5520 or visit the High School Community Center at 11350 Charest. Pics posted here |
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DICKENS & WYSZCZELSKI PROMOTED
 Congratulations to Bill Dickens and Matt Wyszczelski on their promotions to Motor Engineers. Bill has been with the Hamtramck Fire Department since December, 1996 and Matt since January, 1998 - both have served as a union executive board members. They fill long standing vacancies in the Motor Engineer ranks. Bill and Matt were sworn in by Hamtramck District Court Judge Paul Paruk. (pics) We also extend a warm welcome to Thad Carroll as he joins the Hamtramck Fire Department! |
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KINSMAN & ROJEK RETIRE
 A party honoring Motor Engineer Dan 'Rodan' Rojek will be held immediately following his last shift as a Hamtramck Firefighter on October 27th at the Friendly Roosevelt Bar located at 3424 Caniff (map). The festivities begin at about 7:30 am. Rodan's last day of work is scheduled for October 26th, 2007 after 30 years serving with the Hamtramck Fire Department.You can call the firehouse at 313 876-7778 for details. Congratualtions and best wishes also go to Motor Engineer Bill Kinsman, who retired on September 26th after nearly 34 years on the department. Any party details will be announced as they become available. |
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3 DIGIT RAFFLE
 The Hamtramck Firefighters are sponsoring a 3 Digit Raffle that with one ticket, gives you 23 chances to win. Your ticket gives you a 3 digit number - during the month of October 2007, if that number is drawn on the 3 Digit evening lottery on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday or Friday - you win $100; if you match on a Wednesday you win $300!If the raffle ticket for the daily number has not been sold, a drawing from the pool of raffle tickets stubs for the tickets sold with take place at 7:30 PM - 8:00 PM the same day. Tickets are available now! For more info contact any Hamtramck Firefighter, call the station at 313-876-7778 or e-mail today! Click here for winners! License #X64203 |
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