On Saturday, it was wonderful joining State Representative Doug Dubitsky, Senator Cathy Osten, and Lisbon First Selectman Tom Sparkman, for the grand opening ceremonies of the new Lisbon Fire Department. The event was truly a community celebration, with members of the public and fire officials from across eastern Connecticut coming together to mark this important occasion. After a decommissioning of the old station that offered decades of service to the region, a short parade of fire service personnel and apparatus to the new location for a memorable decoupling ceremony, marking a new home for Station 54.

A highlight of the day was seeing the Jewett City and Taftville Fire Departments bringing their towers together to proudly display a massive American flag, while the Baltic Fire Department worked very hard preparing food. Meanwhile, the Yantic and Scotland Fire Departments provided mutual aid coverage throughout the afternoon—a testament to the cooperation and teamwork of our local fire services. Following the ceremonies, tours of the new department were available for anyone that wanted a closer look at the new venue.

The new station is a significant upgrade for Lisbon and neighboring communities, thanks to the vision of local town officials including the leadership of Chief David Gifford and his outstanding team of first responders.

Congratulations to everyone involved on this impressive accomplishment—our region is safer and stronger because of your dedication. Our first responders are so important to our local communities, and I thoroughly enjoyed being there with you all.