POUGHKEEPSIE – Poughkeepsie firefighters at the North Clover Street Station and Police Officers at headquarters ate a full Thanksgiving dinner a day early thanks to a local business owner. The Derby Bar & Restaurant located at 96 Main Street in Poughkeepsie provided the meals.
Joe Rabasco, owner of The Derby, provided the meals to the firehouse and police headquarters right. Lt. Damon Brodhead accepted the delivery on behalf of the police. Contacted after dinner, Broadhead said, “The dinner was very good,” adding, “The stuffing was excellent.”
The firefighters from Engine 1 and Truck 1 at the Clover Street firehouse joined with their Captain, Stephen Sutka, for their Thanksgiving meal in their kitchen/dining area. The firefighters were thankful for the support of Rabasco and The Derby. Local 596 President Nick Bucher said, “Our firefighters never expect anything from the community we proudly serve but it is heartwarming to know that the residents and businesses think enough of us to make a gesture as The Derby did. We really appreciate it.”
Rabasco downplayed his contributions. “The firefighters and police officers in Poughkeepsie are heroes. They risk their lives every day to keep us safe so cooking a few Thanksgiving dinners for our protectors is the least we can do.”