MONTICELLO — The number 30 has many significant connections in history, such as there are 30 tracks to the 1968 Beatles album called, The White Album. There are 30 days in the months of April, June, September and November and it also happens to be the international calling code for Greece.

But in Sullivan County, 30 is how many years that Chella Ascatigno has been serving the community at the 911 Emergency Control Center. Ascatigno is currently the 911 Chief Emergency Service Dispatcher and was hired in December of 1987. The call center handles all the many service calls for all fire, EMS and police emergency calls.

“It doesn't seem like 30 years, it has been a great ride,” said Ascatigno. “My entire staff are like family, I enjoy coming to work everyday.”

At the most recent Public Safety and Law Enforcement Committee meeting, District 5 Legislator and Public Safety Committee Chair Terri Ward presented Ascatigno with a Distinguished Service Award for her 30 years of service to the residents of Sullivan County.

“We keep helping people who need help whether they live in the county or are just visiting. That's what it's all about - helping people,” said Ascatigno.