Barn dance Nov. 21 for new ambulance

SHARON — Members of the Sharon Volunteer Ambulance have formally launched a new fundraising program to replace the current ambulance, which is showing the signs of age and wear of 13 years of service.

Entering into its 58th year, the Ambulance Squad, made up completely of  volunteers, answers an average of 300 emergency calls per year. Funding for the squad comes solely through donations and fundraisers such as the monthly pancake breakfast.

“The price for an ambulance has essentially doubled since our last purchase,†said ambulance Captain Tom Alden. “It now costs $180,000.â€

This has sent the squad scrambling for new ways to raise the needed money. They are keeping track of their progress with a sign on the front of the firehouse: It is the classic fundraiser thermometer idea with a bit of local flair, with the Clock Tower in place of the traditional thermometer.

To kick off the drive, a Barn Dance has been scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 21, 7:30 to 10:30 p.m., at the Monroe barn, 76 Jackson Road.

It will be a traditional square dance, with music provided by The Country Spice Band featuring Myrtle Hayden.

“We are reaching back to our roots and embracing the past to help us in our future,†said Betsy Hall, who is a member of the fundraising committee.

Beer, wine and light refreshments will be available. Tickets are $40 per person and can be obtained through fire and ambulance volunteers or by contacting Hall at 860-364-0664, by e-mail at poohall1@yahoo.com or, by Nov. 16, by mail at PO Box 357, Sharon, CT 06069.

— Eugene Aakjar has been a volunteer with the Sharon Fire Department for 18 years, and has been secretary of the department for the past eight years.

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