Noteworthy milestones

It often takes an anniversary to recognize extraordinary commitment to service on the part of an organization. But it’s also human nature to take certain things for granted, either until they’re gone or until they have a milestone to celebrate. So it’s very good that a number of important area nonprofit groups are noting significant anniversaries this year. Organizations like these are examples of the best aspirations of those who live in and understand the more admirable ways of the Land of Steady Habits. Salisbury Volunteer Ambulance Service has been around for 40 years, the result of careful thought and action by Salisbury’s Rees Harris and other Salisbury residents following a death in a car accident. A tragedy happened, and the best in human nature surfaced and found a way to put trained people at the scene of an accident or other health emergency as quickly as possible. What was at first a small group of 13 has evolved over 40 years, with 59 volunteers now serving as members of the ambulance corps. (See story, Page A1.)The Sharon Historical Society is celebrating 100 years of serving its town. Understanding a town’s history is part and parcel of understanding and directing its future, so for all the good work its historical society has done, Sharon residents are surely grateful. Two Northwest Corner volunteer fire departments celebrate their 100th this year: the Canaan Fire Company and the Kent Volunteer Fire Department. Both have had, and will continue to have, enlightening, moving and just plain fun commemorative celebrations for their anniversaries. On July 16, for instance, the Canaan Fire Company will have its traditional parade for Railroad Days festivities, but this year with a special turn in recognition of its 100th. Don’t miss this event, or any of those commemorating these anniversaries, especially if they’re happening in your town. Congratulations to all those who have worked so hard and given so many volunteer hours to be sure these groups and others have not only survived, but thrived, in recent years. This despite widespread, and well-founded, fears that there are now fewer people in the area who can act as volunteers. Doing more with less is the order of the day. Take the time to attend some of the commemorations of these milestones. It is an opportunity to see and thank those who volunteer now, protecting and serving their communities. Read about those celebrations that have already happened this year at www.tricornernews.com in the archives.And to those who volunteer, thank you. Your dedication helps make the northwest hills of Connecticut a better place for all.

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