Members of the Summit Volunteer First Aid Squad recently gathered to commemorate the organizations accomplishments for 2014 at their annual recognition dinner. Last year was among the most challenging in the squad’s 52 year history as members packed up and vacated their building and moved to temporary headquarters behind Salerno Duane Ford. The squad’s original building was razed in June and its replacement is expected to be ready in the late Spring.
During the dinner, outgoing president John Christmann acknowledged the contributions of many current and former members in raising funds and planning the building project as well as those who served as officers. He presented the squad’s annual Presidential Award to Carl Ganger who has chaired the building committee and spent countless hours working with the architects, contractors, utility and building officials. Mr. Christmann also thanked 2 good neighbors who spearheaded the capital campaign effort to fund the new building: Brett Haire and Jordan Glatt. The membership had previously voted both men into Honorary Membership.
Outgoing Captain John Staunton presented several “Star of Life” awards to volunteers who made exceptional contributions. They included James Rath, Jane James, Beverely Brown, George Shepherd and Marco diMayorca.
2015 president Ken Herr then took the stage to present Mr. Christmann with special chair in thanks for his 3 years of service as president.
2015 Captain Kari Phair presented several members with length of service awards. They were Nora Burd and Robin Dobiszewski for 5 years; Steve Mortenson for 10 years; Maureen Sinclair for 15 years; Nancy Weeks for 20 years; Ken Herr and Peggy Quinn for 25 years; and Liz Cullen for 30 years.
The Chatham Emergency Squad provided EMS coverage to Summit during the dinner. Next week the Summit squad will return the favor when their volunteers cover for Chatham.
Photo: Carl Ganger accepts the 2014 Presidential Award from John Christmann. This year's award included several artifacts from the squad's old building.
