Representing the Career Firefighters of the City of Clifton NJ Fire Department
Congratulations to our newest recruits who graduated from the Fire Academy today.
These new members have successfully completed the fire suppression portion of their training. Over the next few weeks, they will continue with in-house training here in Clifton before beginning their EMT training.
Congratulations to Carlos Marin and John Gaspar Jr. on this outstanding achievement, and welcome to the Clifton Fire Department and Clifton FMBA 21.
Clifton FMBA 21, PBA 36, and Clifton High School Key Club Join Forces for Power of One Annual Children’s Christmas Party
The holiday spirit was in full swing this weekend as Clifton FMBA Local 21, Clifton PBA Local 36, and the Clifton High School Key Club partnered with Kim Castellano and the Power of One organization for the annual Children’s Christmas Party at the Clifton Italian American Club.
Children of all ages lined up with excitement for an early visit with Santa, each receiving a special gift to kick off the Christmas season. The event was filled with smiles, laughter, and holiday cheer as families came together to celebrate.
Members of FMBA 21 and PBA 36, along with the dedicated students of the Key Club, volunteered their time to cook and serve food to guests—ensuring a warm meal and a welcoming environment for all who attended. Their teamwork and community spirit helped make the day memorable and meaningful.
It was truly a fun-filled day that highlighted strength of our community, the power of giving, and the joy of bringing smiles to children during the holiday season.
Clifton Fire Department Pet Food Drive
November 1–30, 2025
Helping the Clifton Animal Shelter!
Clifton FMBA 21 and the Clifton Fire Department are once again collecting pet food donations to support our friends at the Clifton Animal Shelter this November!
Drop-off Locations:
You can bring donations to Clifton Fire HQ (880 Clifton Ave) or any Clifton firehouse throughout the month.
Want to order online? Scan the QR code on the flyer to shop our Amazon Wishlist or order from your favorite store and have it shipped directly to: Clifton Fire HQ – 880 Clifton Ave, Clifton, NJ 07013
Every can, treat, or bag of food makes a difference for animals in need! Thank you for your support!
Tonight was a proud evening for the City of Clifton and its Fire Department as members were recognized with prestigious honors at the annual Knights of Columbus awards ceremony, held at St. Philip the Apostle Church.
Fire Chief Michael Rowan delivered a heartfelt speech, reflecting on the department’s unwavering dedication to service, community, and excellence. His words highlighted the strength and character of this year’s honorees.
The 2025 Firefighter of the Year award was presented to Paul Holzach, recognized for his strong work ethic and commitment to the department.
Michael Bandurski was named EMT of the Year for his outstanding patient care, quick thinking, and dedication to the Clifton EMS Division.
Congratulations to both honorees, and thank you to the Knights of Columbus for continuing to recognize our public safety professionals.
A huge THANK YOU to everyone who supported Clifton FMBA 21’s Tricky Tray! From our amazing vendors to our generous supporters and dedicated volunteers, you made this event unforgettable. We appreciate each and every one of you, and we can’t wait to do it all again next year! See you in 2026!
On February 24, 2025, four members of Clifton FMBA 21 put their cooking talents to the test at the annual State FMBA Cooked & Uncorked Event at Pines Manor in Edison, NJ. Representing Clifton were Michael Andrade, Salvatore Guardascione, Michael Cromey, and Tyler Czupak, who served up a delicious brisket with cornbread and a spiced BBQ sauce.
This highly anticipated event brings together firefighters from across New Jersey to showcase their culinary skills while supporting the NJ FMBA Foundation and the Burn Center at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center. Clifton’s team demonstrated both their teamwork and passion for great food, making their department proud.
Congratulations to our Clifton FMBA 21 members for their participation and dedication!
The Clifton FMBA 21 recently concluded its Annual Coat Drive, collecting nearly 300 coats with the help of generous donations from Clifton residents. Throughout October, Clifton firehouses served as drop-off locations, allowing the community to come together to support those in need. The coats were then delivered to St. Peter’s Haven. Thank you to all who contributed to making this drive a success—your generosity has brought warmth to many this season.
The First Annual Clifton Firefighter’s Foundation Golf Outing was a massive success! It was a day filled with fun, laughter, and camaraderie as members of our department, retirees, and neighboring fire/police departments came together.
This premier event not only delivered a day of spirited competition, fun, and mingling but also supported a noble cause. All proceeds will benefit the Foundation’s mission as a 501c3 Non-Profit, which passionately supports various charitable organizations throughout the City of Clifton.
Attendees enjoyed perfect weather, challenging holes, and the chance to catch up with old friends while meeting new ones. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all our generous sponsors who made this day possible. Be sure to scroll through the event photos and relive the memorable moments from this incredible day!
Special thank you to all of our sponsors and volunteers!
For more, visit our Golf Outing page.
On September 11, 2024, members of Clifton FMBA 21 and Clifton PBA 36 gathered for a memorable evening at Yankee Stadium. The occasion was especially significant, as it marked both the 23rd anniversary of 9/11 and First Responder Night at the ballpark. United by a shared sense of community and pride, the group enjoyed not only the thrill of the game but also the camaraderie that comes from years of service and friendship. The night was filled with laughter, excitement, and a sense of unity, as both departments took a well-deserved break to bond over America’s favorite pastime. It was a memorable night for all, symbolizing the strong ties between Clifton’s first responders.
During May, FMBA 21 set up collection points at all Clifton fire stations to gather non-perishable foods for St. Peter’s Haven. Thank you Brother Steve Turi for arranging this fundraiser.
Founded in 1986 as a ministry of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Clifton, Saint Peter’s Haven is a non-sectarian 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to feeding the hungry and aiding the homeless.
Saint Peter’s Haven offers services focused on supplemental food assistance, transitional housing, and casework services, helping families maintain a sense of normalcy and empowerment as they navigate challenging times. We collaborate with other social services to ensure families receive all available benefits, including veteran benefits, housing and food subsidies, and cash assistance.
