SOUTH FALLSBURG — Tuesday night’s Fallsburg Town Board meeting was more than just public hearings and resolutions; it was a moment of heartfelt recognition for two individuals who have gone above and beyond for the town. Longtime volunteer Nancy McClain was awarded the key to the town, while Gary Tavormina was presented with a plaque honoring his decades of public service.

The board took a break from its busy agenda on March 18 to recognize McClain’s dedication as an EMT and her willingness to step up for the community. Councilwoman Miranda Behan explained that last summer, when kids were playing football, the ambulance service was going to charge a thousand dollars just to be on standby at the games. McClain volunteered her time and skills without hesitation, ensuring the kids were safe while they played. Behan praised McClain’s selflessness and commitment to Fallsburg, calling her actions an example of true community spirit.

A round of applause followed, and McClain stepped forward to express her thanks. 

“As Miranda said, I’ve been an EMT… over 43 years serving the town of Fallsburg,” McClain shared. “I have had the honor of working with many of the police officers that are currently here, that have come, that have gone, and hopefully those that are coming in the future.”

McClain then turned the spotlight on two Fallsburg Police Officers, Martin Gonzalez and Officer Eric Yeomans, presenting them with certificates of appreciation for their life-saving efforts on Christmas Day 2024. That day, the officers were dispatched to a medical emergency involving a man whose airway was closing due to an allergic reaction to black mold. Realizing the urgency, Gonzalez and Yeomans made a split-second decision to transport the man themselves in their patrol car, rather than wait for an ambulance. They met up with advanced life support on the way, and the man was stabilized and taken to Garnet Health Medical Center, where he made a full recovery.

Fallsburg Police Chief Brendan Pavese commended their actions, saying that their quick thinking and response on a holiday, when emergency services were stretched thin, likely saved a man’s life. The chief noted their dedication and service with a letter that will be added to their personnel files.

Earlier in the evening, Gary Tavormina was recognized for more than 20 years of service to Fallsburg. He spent time on both the town’s planning and zoning boards, and also served as a member of the Town Board in previous years. Tavormina reflected on his years of dedication, saying that it all started when he was first elected by the people of Fallsburg. He described it as an honor to serve his community and credited the residents for their continued support and trust. “This could not have happened if it was not for the citizens of this community,” he said. “They had faith in me. They elected me. And they supported me and I support them.”

As the board and attendees gathered for group photos with each of the honorees, the sense of gratitude and admiration in the room was unmistakable. Whether it was Tavormina’s decades of service, McClain’s unwavering volunteerism, or the officers’ lifesaving actions, the evening celebrated a shared commitment to the people of Fallsburg.