May 8, 2009 MR-05 [Georgetown, DE]- Sussex County EMS (SCEMS), the Sussex County Paramedic Association and the Sussex County Volunteer Ambulance Association held their annual EMS Banquet on Friday, May 8, 2009, at the Cheer Center in Georgetown, Delaware. Awards were presented for EMT-B (Central, Western and Eastern), EMS nurse, EMS physician, Emergency Communications Specialist, Field Training Officer, Paramedic Supervisor, Paramedic of the Year and Administrative Excellence. In addition, the evening included a presentation honoring Paramedic Stephanie Callaway, who was killed in the line of duty June 17, 2008.
Local television personality Jimmy Hoppa, Co-host of the WBOC This Morning served as the Master of Ceremonies. Dr. Paul Cowan was the guest speaker for the evening. Dr. Cowan’s vast knowledge and experience as both an Emergency Physician and former paramedic has made him one of the strongest advocates for the advancement of EMS service in Sussex County.
The EMT-B of the year for Western Sussex County was Bill Boyles, retired EMT from the Seaford Fire Department. EMT-B of the Year for Central Sussex County was Frank Bunting, a career employee for the Frankford Volunteer Fire Company, and the EMT-B of the Year for Eastern Sussex County was Amber Gentry, career EMT for the Millville Volunteer Fire Company. All three have gone above and beyond what’s expected of them in their careers.
EMS Nurse of the year was Jen Light from the Beebe Hospital ED. She is a skilled clinician, and a team player who makes sure the lines of communication between EMS and the ED are wide open.
EMS physician of the Year was Dr. Paul Cowan. He is highly regarded by both paramedics and EMT’s for his willingness to spend time teaching, explaining and broadening the knowledge of our EMS providers.
Emergency Communication Specialist of the Year is Chris Moore. Chris continuously displays a high level of professionalism and dedication in Emergency Medical Dispatch.
Field Training Officer of the Year was Chris Boyer. He is recognized for his wide body of knowledge and his ability as both educator and paramedic.
Paramedic Supervisor of the Year was Ann Tait. She was a member of the very first paramedic class, and later graduated Summa Cum Laude from Delaware Technical Community College with an Associate’s degree in EMS Management. The members of her shift are universal in their high regard for her as a supervisor, role model and friend.
The Award for Administrative Excellence went to Division Manager Bobby Schoonover. Bobby became the Technical Services Division Manager in 2007. During the past year, he coordinated the conversion of the Cinderberry sales office into an efficient, functional Logistics Facility and Paramedic Station. Most recently he became SCEMS project coordinator for the new Medic 102 station in Laurel.
Paramedic of the Year was awarded to John Wright. In addition to his duties as a Paramedic II, he is also an active member in the Hazardous Materials Medical Response Team, and co-coordinator of the Medic Assist Committee. He is very active with the BLS providers, and is noted for providing support, training and guidance to new EMT’s.
###