By Scott Brinton
The ceremony, which attracted fire officials from across the South Shore, took place inside the Hook & Ladder Company's new two-bay garage. The garage normally houses a heavy rescue truck and tower-ladder engine. On Dec. 4, though, it was full of neat round tables, at which fire officials and their families sat with smiles creasing their faces.
The Hook & Ladder Company began in an old barn on Oakwood Avenue in 1893. Including its most recent incarnation, the firehouse has been rebuilt four times. On Sunday, the Ladies Auxiliary presented the 38-volunteer fire company with a stunning, framed drawing of the four firehouses.
Frank VanDerlofske, the Hook & Ladder Company's current captain, served as the master of ceremonies for the firehouse's opening. The entire Merrick Fire Department was on hand for the event, including Chief Paul Waterman, First Assistant Chief Ron Luparello and Second Assistant Chief Christopher Simmons.
Waterman said that construction of the firehouse was a monumental undertaking. "It was a lot hours, a lot of hours," he said. "A lot of blood and sweat. No tears."
The firehouse was rebuilt to meet updated safety regulations and add the latest communications equipment. Dziedzic said the fire company formed a building committee and began its architect search in February 2001. Of the nine-member committee, Dziedzic said, "They worked together like true professionals."
On May 3, 2004, the Oakwood Avenue firehouse was shut down for construction, and, Dziedzic said, "We found ourselves without a home." The Curé of Ars Parish offered its back parking lot on Hewlett Avenue. There, the fire company set up a temporary, chain-link shelter for its two trucks, which was locked continually and heated in winter with kerosene burners to keep the trucks warm. "We, as a company, stuck together," Dziedzic said to a round of thunderous applause.
State Sen. Charles Fuschillo Jr. of Merrick said that volunteer firefighters represent the best in humanity, noting that they "risk their lives for total strangers."
Speaking to the Hook & Ladder Company, he said, "I ask that you be safe, and I thank you for protecting my family."
Assemblyman David McDonough of North Merrick said, "God bless all of you and your families. You're there because you care for us. Congratulations and good luck to all of you."
Nassau County Legislator David Denenberg said, "I love this new firehouse. I love having this and Empire and Friendship [companies] so close by. I love the brotherhood [they] represent. [They're] a part of everything good in Merrick."
Town of Hempstead Clerk Mark Bonilla and Councilwoman Angie Cullin offered citations to the Hook & Ladder Company as well.
Comments about this story? SBrinton@liherald.com or (516) 569-4000 ext. 203.
