Derby Celebrated Ed Cotter Day

Mayor Tony Staffieri and Barbara Martin are about to present a proclamation from Governor Jodi Rell marking Sunday as Ed Cotter Day in Connecticut to Ed (L).

Ed Cotter the last remaining founding member of Storm Ambulance was honored for over 65 years of service to his community at the annual Storm Engine Company and Ambulance breakfast and children's Christmas party. Ed has decided not to renew his Emergency Medical Technician certification which expires at the end of this year. He turned 85 last month. A biography was read by his grandson David listing Ed's many accomplishments. Ed was extremely proud of the fact that he was awarded the four highest humanitarian awards given in the Valley including the Charles H. Flynn Humanitarian Award from Valley United Way and the Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce's Gold Seal Award.

He was honored by Derby Mayor Anthony Staffieri and Ms. Barbara Martin of the South Central Emergency Medical Services Council, who presented a very special proclamation to Ed. Ed was recognized for his service by the Griffin Hospital Emergency Department, for his dedication and for his active service to the EMS community in the Valley. He was further honored by Governor Jodi Rell with a proclamation saluting his service to the State of Connecticut. governor Rell proclaimed Sunday, December 18 as Ed Cotter Day in Connecticut.

The event was was held at Connie's Mountain Villa and attended by 150 people. The program featured a video presentation of photos and stories from the last year. Several members of the organization were recognixed for exemplary service during the last year. FF/EMT Dan Mascolo, David Lenart, Ryan Hart, Louis Oliwa, Brian Cooper, Jeff Culbertson, Assistant Chief Jim Saldamarco, FF/EMT Joe Antinozzi, Art Fredericks and Anthony Delucia were recognized for their professionalism and acts during the last year.

Gifts were given to the members, a fleece pullover. The members' wives were given holiday salt and pepper shakers. Santa then arrived and presents were given to the members, children and grandchildren. A buffet breakfast was served. Members then embarked on their annual popcorn ball Sunday festivities with Santa.