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1910 Stockyard 1910 Stockyard fire tale told in firefighter's book

9/10/2013

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by John Rice
Forest Park Review


Nine years ago, a young Chicago firefighter named Matt Drew was doing research for a book about my great-grandfather, Chicago Fire Marshal James Horan [1859-1910]. When he asked for my help, I gladly let him copy my materials. Last week, Matt invited me to his book signing at an Irish pub in the south suburbs. His book, "Shadows of Chicago" is hot off the presses.

Matt is a rare individual who can write and fight fires. He earned a Master's Degree in Writing from De Paul University and has taught English Composition at an array of high schools and colleges. He also teaches firefighting tactics at the University of Illinois and serves on the Chicago Fire Department Hazardous Materials squad. He juggles these jobs, while raising three young children with his wife Melissa. However, the fact that Matt can walk, let alone work, is a major miracle.

Growing up in an Irish family, Matt decided early-on to become a fireman. He joined the department in 2002 and was assigned to an engine company in the Woodlawn neighborhood. It was a busy firehouse, as was his next assignment at Engine 63 in the Kenwood neighborhood.

On Feb. 11, 2010, Matt and his comrades were fighting an arson fire. Matt was chopping away at one of the wooden walls, when his axe unexpectedly struck concrete. He felt a sharp pain in his back but had no idea how badly he was injured. His shattered disc had severed his spinal cord, causing Cauda Equina Syndrome.

Paralyzed from the waist down, Matt was told he would never walk again. He stunned neurologists by making a slow recovery from the injury. He said it was like being a baby again, taking his first steps with a walker. Thanks to daily physical therapy, which he still undergoes, Matt advanced to walking with a cane. He recently played in a charity softball game and is, "ninety-five percent back to how I was before."

As crippling as the injury was, Matt suffered another cruel setback, when all of his research materials were wiped out by a basement flood. He painstakingly replaced them.

However, on December 10, 2010, he suddenly lost his stomach for the book project. A hundred years to the date that Horan and twenty of his men were killed by a collapsing wall in the stockyards, two Chicago firefighters were buried in the rubble of a shuttered plant. Firefighters in dress uniform left the centennial ceremony at the stockyard memorial and hurried to the scene. Matt went, too, though he was too hobbled to help. One of his best friends, Ed Stringer, was killed.

After deciding to donate a portion of the book's proceeds to the department's fund for widows and orphans, Matt moved forward with the project. A publisher was impressed with Matt's solidly-written account of Horan's life but thought the book needed more characters. Matt added two of "Big Jim's" lifelong friends, White Sox founder Charles Comiskey and Chicago Mayor Fred Busse.

Matt not only painted rich portraits of three larger-than-life men, he found details about my great-grandfather's life that I had been dying to know. "Shadows of Chicago" is written with passion and has appeal for firefighting buffs, White Sox fans and aficionados of Chicago's corrupt politics. There are plans for Matt to come to Centuries & Sleuths to sign copies of the book. It will be an opportunity to meet a remarkable man, purchase an entertaining slice of Chicago history and help out families like the Stringers.

(Note: Shadows of Chicago: The True Story of Three Men and the Crimes that Shocked America. A portion of the proceeds from each copy will go towards the Ende, Menzer,Walsh and Quinn Retirees,Widows and Children’s Assistance Fund.
To purchase his book or for information about the book, events, interviews, etc. can be found on: blackoakmedia.org.)


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Memorial Fund Established for Fallen Chicago Fire Fighter Walter Patmon 

11/14/2012

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CHICAGO, Nov. 14 - BMO Harris Bank, in partnership with the Ende, Menzer, Walsh & Quinn Retirees', Widows' & Children's Assistance Fund and Chicago Firefighters Union Local 2, today announced the establishment of a memorial fund to benefit the family of Walter Patmon, who died in the line of duty over the past weekend.

"This tragic event - the second in the past two weeks - reminds us of the risks and sacrifices made by firefighters each and every day," said Judy Rice, Senior Vice President and Head of Community Affairs and Government Relations, BMO Harris Bank.  "My colleagues and I are proud to open a bank account in Walter Patmon's honor, and we encourage people to visit a local branch and make a donation.  We are also working on making an initial donation to the fund."

"The City of Chicago lost a very dedicated and well-liked member of the department. The City again comes together to honor a true public servant, and to be there for his family, and for this, the entire Chicago Fire Department family is again grateful," said Tony Martin, Lieutenant, Chicago Fire Department. "We're also grateful to BMO Harris Bank for their concern and kindness in remembering Chicago's first responders by establishing this memorial fund in Walter's name and by their pending financial contribution to Walter's memorial fund."

All BMO Harris locations are currently accepting cash or check donations from customers or the general public, with donations going towards supporting Walter's family. Checks can be made payable to the Walter Patmon Memorial Fund.  The account number for the fund is 4811970829.  

Donations can also be made online at www.widowsandchildren.org. Donation acknowledgement forms will be generated for all contributions of $250 or more in accordance with the Internal Revenue Service guidelines. Individuals needing tax receipts will be required to use a check.

Donations can also be made via mail to:

BMO Harris Bank - Community Affairs Department

111 W. Monroe

Chicago, IL 60603

The account is being established through the Ende, Menzer, Walsh & Quinn Retirees', Widows' and Children's Assistance Fund: An IRS established (501c3) charitable organization whose mission is to provide financial assistance to the neediest widows and children of Chicago firefighters and paramedics.

About BMO Harris Bank

Based in Chicago, BMO Harris Bank N.A. provides a broad range of personal banking products and solutions through over 600 branches and approximately 1,300 ATMs in Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, Kansas, Missouri, Minnesota, Nevada, Arizona and Florida. BMO Harris Bank’s commercial banking team provides a combination of sector expertise, local knowledge and mid-market focus throughout the U.S. Deposit and loan products and services provided by BMO Harris Bank N.A. Member FDIC. BMO Harris Bank SM is a trade name used by BMO Harris Bank N.A. BMO Harris Bank is part of BMO Financial Group, a North American financial organization with 1,600 branches, and a retail deposit base of approximately $180 billion.

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Memorial Fund Established for Fallen Chicago Fire Captain Herbert "Herbie" Johnson

11/5/2012

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BMO Harris Bank Locations Accepting Contributions for Fallen Hero

CHICAGO, Nov. 5th - BMO Harris Bank, in partnership with the Ende, Menzer, Walsh & Quinn Retirees', Widows' & Children's Assistance Fund and Chicago Firefighters Union Local 2, today announced the establishment of a memorial fund to benefit the family of Herbert "Herbie" Johnson, who made the ultimate sacrifice in a tragic incident battling a fire in Chicago. 

"Captain Johnson made Chicago a safer place - his bravery was known far and wide," said Mark Furlong, President and CEO, BMO Harris Bank.  "We are deeply saddened by this loss, and my colleagues and I are proud to open a bank account in his honor. We encourage people to visit a local BMO Harris branch and make a donation, and BMO Harris is committing $10,000 in his honor."

"Chicago lost a very courageous man. The City has come together to honor Herbie's life and to be there for his family, and for this, the department is extremely grateful," said Tony Martin, Lieutenant, Chicago Fire Department. "We're also grateful to BMO Harris Bank for their generosity and kindness in establishing this memorial fund and their financial contribution."

All BMO Harris locations are currently accepting cash or check donations from customers or the general public, with donations going towards supporting Herbie's family. Checks can be made payable to the Herbert "Herbie" Johnson Memorial Fund.  The Account number for the fund is 4811970462.

Donations can also be made online at www.widowsandchildren.org. Donation acknowledgement forms will be generated for all contributions of $250 or more in accordance with the Internal Revenue Service guidelines. Individuals needing tax receipts will be required to use a check.

Donations can also be made via mail to:

BMO Harris Bank - Community Affairs Department

111 W. Monroe

Chicago, IL 60603

The account is being established through the Ende, Menzer, Walsh & Quinn Retirees', Widows' and Children's Assistance Fund: An IRS established (501c3) charitable organization whose mission is to provide financial assistance to the neediest widows and children of Chicago firefighters and paramedics.

About BMO Harris Bank

Based in Chicago, BMO Harris Bank N.A. provides a broad range of personal banking products and solutions through over 600 branches and approximately 1,300 ATMs in Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, Kansas, Missouri, Minnesota, Nevada, Arizona and Florida. BMO Harris Bank’s commercial banking team provides a combination of sector expertise, local knowledge and mid-market focus throughout the U.S. Deposit and loan products and services provided by BMO Harris Bank N.A. Member FDIC. BMO Harris Bank SM is a trade name used by BMO Harris Bank N.A. BMO Harris Bank is part of BMO Financial Group, a North American financial organization with 1,600 branches, and a retail deposit base of approximately $180 billion.

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Beverly Review- Blackhawks alumni help raise funds for charities

9/26/2012

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by Scott Fredericks

Chicago Blackhawks and National Hockey League fans may have to wait a while to see their heroes on the ice, as the league is in the midst of its fourth lockout in 20 years.

But Blackhawks fans got a treat when several alumni team members and current forward Kyle Beach competed in a 16-inch softball game against members of the Chicago Police and Fire departments in an effort to raise money for several worthy causes on a picturesque day at Richard R. Ferrell Memorial Field on the campus of St. Xavier University on Sept. 16.

Jack O’Callahan, a member of the 1980 Olympic gold medal hockey team, has been one of the brains behind the successful charity game that’s now in its fifth season.

“Our Blackhawks alumni guys are thrilled to be here again,” said O’Callahan. “When we put this thing together five years ago, everywhere we went to ask for support, people have always said yes. We are thankful to everyone and can’t say enough about the support we get. We are here to help and always will be.”

While the Blackhawks rallied for a 10-4 win on the field, there were no losers in the event that benefitted a host of worthy charities, including Chicago Firefighters’ Ende, Menzer, Walsh and Quinn Retirees, Widows and Children’s Assistance Fund and the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation.

“It’s a great cause. To come out here and see all the fans cheering on both teams and to have that camaraderie with some of the older guys who played for the Blackhawks means a lot to me,” said Beach. “It means a lot to us to come out and support the fire and police departments on a day like this.”

Beach and his Blackhawks teammates were locked out in the latest labor dispute in the National Hockey League the morning of the event, but he and several other young players will still get to play for Rockford in the American Hockey League while the lockout continues.

“Obviously, it’s not the Blackhawks, who we all wish we were playing for, but it’s a way to keep playing,” said Beach. “When the season does come back, we will be prepared and ready to join the Blackhawks again.”

Other Blackhawks alumni in attendance included Stan Mikita, who signed autographs at the event, Cliff Koroll, Troy Murray, Brian Noonan, Grant Mulvey and longtime radio and TV playby- play announcer Pat Foley.

The Police/Fire team took a 4-0 lead in the first inning.

However, it was all Blackhawks from there. The team scored two runs in the second inning and then took the lead for good with three in the third, highlighted by Foley’s inside-the-park home run.

The Blackhawks alumni team, which let children run the bases for them, scored five more times in the bottom of the fourth for the final tally.
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5th Annual Blackhawks Alumni & Friends Charity Softball Classic presented by BMO Harris Bank

9/13/2012

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5th Annual Event to Benefit Firefighter and Police Charities


Chicago (Aug. 23, 2012) - The Chicago Blackhawks Alumni Association is excited to announce the 5th Annual Blackhawks Alumni & Friends Charity Softball Classic presented by BMO Harris Bank, which will take place on Sunday, Sept. 16, 2012 at 1 p.m. at Saint Xavier University in the Richard R. Ferrell Memorial Field.  Gates open at Noon. The event benefits the Chicago Firefighters' EMWQ Retirees’, Widows’ and Children’s Assistance Fund and the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation.

“The Blackhawks Alumni are excited to organize this event for our fifth year. As former members of the Chicago Blackhawks, we love Chicago and have the utmost respect for the Chicago Police and Fire Departments. We are honored to be able to help their families,” said Jack O’Callahan, Blackhawk Alumni and gold-medalist with the 1980 USA Olympic Hockey Team. “We are particularly fortunate to have so many great sponsors and especially appreciative of the continued generosity of our presenting sponsor BMO Harris. It’s a great free, family event, and we look forward to everyone coming out to enjoy the day!”

Chicago Blackhawks current players and alumni will "face-off" in a 16" softball game with members of the Chicago Police Department (CPD) and Chicago Fire Departments (CFD). The event also features the annual CFD vs. CPD City-Wide 16” Softball Championship. The event marks the third year BMO Harris has served as a presenting sponsor. Other major sponsors include NBC 5 Chicago, Ferrara Candy Company, CME Group and Saint Xavier University.

 “BMO Harris Bank is proud to return as the event's presenting sponsor, which celebrates a number of charities that benefit Chicago's first responders and their families,” said Chris McComish, Executive Vice President, Retail Banking, BMO Harris Bank. “Together, our support of the Chicago Police and Fire Department charities reinforces that their loved ones will never be forgotten, that we honor their service, and that we stand together in support of their families.”

“The Blackhawk Alumni have given back to the community in so many ways,” remarked Lt. Anthony Martin, President of the EMWQ Fund. “Their generosity to the families of Chicago Fire Department, particularly our neediest widows and children, is deeply appreciated.”

 “It is extraordinary that the Blackhawks alumni have found a great way to give back to Chicago,” said Phil Cline, Executive Director of the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation.  “I want to thank them on behalf of the families of the Chicago Police Department for their generosity and for organizing this fun, family event.”


The "puck drops" at our new location, the Richard R. Ferrell Memorial Field at Saint Xavier University (SXU), which is home to SXU’s defending NAIA Football Champions.  The field is located in Chicago’s Mt. Greenwood Community at 3700 W. 103rd Street.

“Saint Xavier University is proud to support the Chicago Firefighters’ EMWQ Retirees’, Widows’ and Children Assistance Fund and the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation through this wonderful event. We welcome the community to join us for an afternoon of fun at this charity softball classic,” said SXU President Christine M. Wiseman, J.D.

Admission is free. Families will enjoy food, non-alcoholic beverages, an inflatable play-area and games for children, raffles and autographs from players. Miss Illinois 2012 Megan Ervin will sign autographs and take pictures with fans. Special Units from the Chicago Police and Fire Departments are scheduled to participate and variety of antique fire and police equipment will be on display.

Mark your calendars and plan to join in this premier event on Sept. 16, 2012. For more information, please visit: www.widowsandchildren.org.

 

 

About the Blackhawk Aumni:

In 1987, a group of retired Blackhawk players got together to discuss their future in the Chicago community. Their main objective was to "give something back" to Chicago and to the sport of hockey. In that meeting they developed a three-fold mission statement for their non-profit Alumni Association.

  • To provide a scholarship fund for the "most deserving" high school hockey players in Illinois.
  • To become involved in community affairs and charitable causes.
  • To protect and take care of their fellow alumni: "Players helping Players."
 

About The Ende, Menzer, Walsh & Quinn Retirees Widows and Children’s Assistance Fund:

The EMWQ Fund is a not-for-profit organization created to support the neediest widows and children of the Chicago Fire Department. The fund provides annual support to nearly 800 widows and 100 children of deceased Chicago Firefighters and Paramedics. For more information visit www.widowsandchildren.org,

About the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation:

The Chicago Police Memorial Foundation is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to honoring the lives of our fallen heroes. The Foundation provides support and assistance to the families of Chicago Police Officers who were killed or catastrophically injured in the line of duty. For more information visit http://www.cpdmemorial.org

About BMO Harris:

Based in Chicago, BMO Harris Bank N.A. provides a broad range of personal banking products and solutions through over 650 branches and approximately 1,350 ATMs in Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, Kansas, Missouri, Minnesota, Nevada, Arizona and Florida. BMO Harris Bank’s commercial banking team provides a combination of sector expertise, local knowledge and mid-market focus throughout the U.S. Deposit and loan products and services provided by BMO Harris Bank N.A. Member FDIC. BMO Harris BankSM is a trade name used by BMO Harris Bank N.A. BMO Harris Bank is part of BMO Financial Group, a North American financial organization with 1,600 branches, and a retail deposit base of approximately $180 billion.

About Saint Xavier University:

Founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1846, Saint Xavier University was the first Mercy college in the United States and is Chicago’s oldest Catholic university. Serving more than 4,700 students at its campuses in Chicago, Orland Park and its Loop location, the University offers 43 undergraduate majors; more than 40 graduate program options in arts and sciences, business, education and nursing; and a variety of program options in continuing and professional studies. Recognizing Saint Xavier’s excellence in education, U.S. News and World Report has ranked SXU consistently among the Best Colleges in the Midwest.


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CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS ALUMNI & FRIENDS ANNOUNCE SOFTBALL CLASSIC 

6/23/2012

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5th Annual Event to Benefit Firefighter and Police Charities

The Chicago Blackhawks Alumni Association is excited to announce the 5th Annual
Blackhawks Alumni & Friends Charity Softball Classic presented by BMO Harris Bank.
Chicago Blackhawks current players and alumni will "face-off" in a 16" softball game
with members of the Chicago Police and Fire Departments. The event also features the
annual CFD vs. CPD City-Wide 16” Softball Championship.

The "puck drops" on September 16, 2012 at 1 p.m., at a new location, Ferrell Field at
Saint Xavier University (SXU). Home to the SXU Cougars, the field is located in
Chicago's Mt. Greenwood Community at 3700 W. 103rd Street. The event benefits the
Chicago Firefighters' EMWQ Retirees’, Widows’ and Children’s Assistance Fund and
Chicago Police Memorial Foundation.

Admission is free. Families will enjoy food, non-alcoholic beverages, games and
inflatables for children, raffles and autographs from players.

Sponsorship opportunities are available and offer a great way to support Chicago Police
and Fire Department charities. Join BMO Harris Bank, NBC 5 Chicago, Ferrara Pan
Candy and other great organizations in making this great day possible.

Mark your calendars and plan to join in this premier event on September 16, 2012.
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Emanuel to Play Himself in Upcoming TV Show: the show is making an investment to the firefighter's widow and orphans fund. 

5/17/2012

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An episode of a new TV show based on Chicago firefighters will include at least one famous Chicagoan.

Rahm Emanuel will play himself in an episode of the TV show that NBC may pickup for the fall lineup, the mayor told NBC Chicago during a one-on-one interview Thursday.

"It's easier being mayor than playing mayor," said Emanuel. "I told them I’d do it under one condition: the TV show is making an investment to the firefighter's widow and orphans fund.”

"Chicago Fire" is a drama focusing on the men and women of the Chicago Fire Department and their everyday heroics. Emanuel's brother, Ari Emanuel, is a Beverly Hills-based talent agent, but it's currently unknown if he's involved with the production.

The show is being produced by Dick Wolf, the same man who created the highly-successful and long-running drama "Law and Order." Jesse Spencer is rumored to play a firefighter assigned to Station 55. Along with Spencer, Taylor Kinney and Monica Raymond are reportedly playing characters in the series.



Source: http://www.nbcchicago.com/blogs/ward-room/rahm-emanuel-chicago-fire-nbc-tv-show-144949205.html#ixzz1yxhLU2g6 

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