PORT JERVIS, NY - Longtime Port Jervis firefighters and members of Howard Wheat Engine Company #4 have been enjoying Firemen’s Friday breakfasts together for years. It began with members taking turns cooking breakfast each week in the firehouse, until Covid-19 temporarily halted the tradition. During that time, members were not allowed in the firehouse except for emergency responses.

When guidelines changed to allow for small group gatherings again, the group began eating out every other Friday in various local restaurants. They have continued to do this, enjoying this non-emergency fellowship together as brother firefighters and friends.

The group, shown enjoying Fireman's Friday breakfast at Mama’s Kitchen Deli and Café on Ball Street on November 12th, are (pictured clockwise from left, with the date each joined Port Jervis FD): Jeff Ewing (5-14-1984), Joe Ranich (5-28-2008, who is also a retired NYC Firefighter), Hank Dunn (7-25-1966), Don Heller (longtime auxiliary member), and Stan Siegel (10-25-1965). They are pictured with staff of the café Ernest Dirosa, owner Paul Newman, and Samantha Quick.