Emergency Services Building Opened

By Bob Bumcrot
On September 20 the new Emergency Services Building was inaugurated with a gala afternoon open house attended by well over one hundred Norfolkians. The relaxed and happy crowd sipped punch and enjoyed a variety of hors d’oeuvres contributed by chef-owner Heidi Dinsmore of Wood Creek Bar & Grill, while touring the large, well appointed facility accompanied by current and former members of the Norfolk Lions Club Ambulance Service.
“This is a very happy day,” said Ted Veling, who headed the committee that guided the project over several years, from conception to completion. “I think it came out really well,” added Committee Secretary and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Susanne Funchion, whose tireless bargain hunting succeeded in fully furnishing the facility for well below the budgeted amount.
“What a long road!” said Chief of Service Marc Tonan, addressing the entire assembly. “We are and remain a 100 percent volunteer Advanced Support Ambulance Service, thanks to your efforts and donations.” Such services are becoming increasingly rare in Connecticut. Tonan described numerous changes and improvements over his twenty-eight years with the service. For example, the EMT training course has increased from 60 to 140 hours, radios have become far more sophisticated and computer technology plays an increasingly important role.
Following his remarks, Tonan paid tribute to the late Sid Toomey, who was a founding member of the ambulance service, and a volunteer for his nearly fifty years.
Both the ambulance service and the Norfolk Lions Club were founded in 1951. Since its inception, the principal goal of the club has been to support the service. The new building was financed by town and state taxes, but the club has provided funds over the years for the ambulances, furnishings and other expenses.
The new building comprises about 2,200 square feet, with a separate ambulance bay, a large training room, a day room, an officers’ room, a full kitchen, two bathrooms (one with shower) and a full heated basement. There is also a separate office for the Resident State Trooper. “We remain on call with a three person crew, 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” said Tonan. “We’re always looking for individuals who are interested in joining our corps as drivers or EMTs, or who wish to help support our efforts.” Applicants or donors may find more information at norfolkambulance.com.