Notes from a Rookie Firefighter...August 26, 2009

I forgot to tell you about Sunday. I had a GREAT time at an exempt picnic at one of our firehouses.

In our township, you are exempt if you are with the fire department for seven years. I am not exempt, but the picnic is opened up to all the firefighters in the township.

Last year I attended the same picnic but this year I knew more people, and I knew some people a little better than I did last year. I even caught a poker game with three firefighters who are almost at their 50 year mark. I felt so fortunate to hear their stories and be included in what they say is a ritual-type game every year. I haven't played poker for about 5 years but I think I surprised them with my street smarts. After all, I am Italian from Brooklyn and have been playing poker since I was seven.

That's all for now!

Denise Broesler,
NJ Rookie Firefighter