On Tuesday a local group decided to support the Utica Fire Department by holding a 'Festivus' celebration outside the fire house. The UFD has gained national attention recently by putting up a sign outside Fire Station #4 that reads: "Happy Birthday Jesus, We Love You."

The national group Freedom From Religion Foundation has sent multiple requests to Utica's Fire Chief Russell Brooks asking him to remove the sign.

Organizer Kevin Nugent said having the celebration and placing a Festivus Pole (the traditional symbol of Festivus) at the firehouse shows that the UFD supports every religion and not just Christianity.

Chief Russell Brooks said he supports the group's right to celebrate, as well as any other group, and if people from different faiths wish to put up a sign at the firehouse showcasing their faiths, they would be welcome to do so.

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