State Senator Michelle Hinchey talking about the need to support EMS providers:
SHAWANGUNK – The Ulster County EMS Council recently honored several providers for their dedicated efforts in providing emergency medical services while battling a staffing crisis plaguing the Hudson Valley and beyond as volunteers no longer have the time to dedicate to their respective agencies. The crisis has caused many municipalities to contract with professional EMS ambulance providers at a substantial cost to the taxpayers.
State Senator Michelle Hinchey and Ulster County Sheriff Juan Figueroa both gave brief remarks at the well-attended event at the Wallkill Hook, Ladder, and Hose Company facility.
In presenting the award to New Paltz Rescue Squad as the 2024 EMS Agency of the Year, Ulster County EMS Council President Jeff Ashdown said “This organization has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the well-being and safety of the residents of Ulster County, going above and beyond the call of duty to provide exceptional emergency medical services.”
The council presents the Harriet A. Weber Leadership Award annually and Charles “Chuck” Foster was honored for his efforts. Ashdown said Foster “Has made an impact on our entire county,” crediting him with “propelling our agencies to new heights and views because of his ability to inspire and motivate others.” Foster is also known in Dutchess County where he serves as an EMS provider at Heritage Financial Park, home of the Hudson Valley Renegades.
The honorees:
EMS Agency of the Year
New Paltz Rescue Squad
Educator
Jennifer Christiansen
EMS Communications Dispatcher
Dominic Carlucci
Lifesaving Award
Dominic Carlucci
Sophia Medici
Paul Medici
Town of Ulster Police Officer Javier Castaneda
Paramedic Robert Schultes
Rosendale Police Officer Patricia Vincent
Harriet A Weber Leadership Award
Charles “Chuck” Foster
EMS Quality & Safety Award
Virginia Wiswall
Ulster County BLS Provider of the Year
Judy Mayle – Plattekill Fire Department 30-year member
Physician of the Year
Dr. Matthew Stupple – HealthAlliance Hospital
Registered Nurse of the Year
Megan Belsky
Ulster County ALS Provider of the Year
Samantha Crosbie
Youth Member of the Year
Hailey Loughlin
