HEROES
STUDENTS GRADUATE ACADEMIES
EMPLOYEES RECOGNIZED FOR EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE
Welcome to The Pulse! ABOUT EMPRESS
Hi, I’m Dugan Radwin, the Marketing and Communications Manager at Empress. I’m excited to share this new issue of The Pulse with you!
In it, you’ll find photos and stories from our outreach activities at local schools, community expos and family oriented events. Staff members gave presentations to groups including the Girl Scouts to help them develop basic first-aid skills and learn about EMS careers. We were at Family Fun Days, Touch-ATruck events and more.
EMS Week, May 18-24, is an important time in the EMS world to show appreciation for employees and all their hard work and dedication. This is done in a variety of ways ranging from awards, to fun celebrations around our coverage area, to a bike ride in memory of EMS employees who have passed away.
Empress EMTs, paramedics and leaders were honored by a variety of local EMS councils around the region for strong leadership and exceptional courage and bravery in high-stress emergencies.
Several Empress staff also participated in this year’s EMS Memorial Bike ride, which covered more than 300 miles from Connecticut to Washington, D.C. We take a closer look at this event in a story featuring Paramedic Bill Rothschild, the first Empress employee to take the ride and
ON THE COVER
encourage others to get involved.
We also are pleased to share information about our EMS Academy and the two classes that have graduated so for this year in Poughkeepsie and Yonkers. Scenes from the Academy can give you an idea of the skills students practice to get the experience they need to become certified EMTs.
Many staffers have been recognized with the Daniel J. Minerva Founders Award so far this year. This is an internal award given to employees in recognition of their years of service at career milestones. Our longest-serving employee to be honored this year is Captain Sue Legris with 25 years.
I hope you enjoy this window into what’s going on at Empress. We value the communities we serve, and it is our honor and privilege to be there for you when you need us.
Since its inception in 1985, Empress has made a firm commitment to the development of Emergency Medical Services and quality after-care transportation in the Bronx, Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster and Westchester counties, as well as New York City.
With a primary focus on state-of-the-art patient care in a personal and compassionate manner, the success of our approach is reflected in a reputation that is unparalleled in the region. Employing some of the most capable and experienced individuals in the business, Empress handles more than 59,000 transports a year.
Through our dedicated staff and experienced management team, Empress EMS continues to raise the standards in the ambulancecare workplace.
Visit empressems.com to learn more about our services, job opportunities and more.
Have questions? Submit at empressems.com/contact-us
Paramedics Bill Rothschild, Matt Tuttle and Rick Haughwaut pose in Washington, D.C., with the Capitol building in the background during the National EMS Memorial Bike Ride. The ride, held in May, started in Connecticut and ended in Washington. Learn more about it on pages 7-9.
OUTREACH ACTIVITIES
EMTs Erika Opokuware and Eric Holmbo visited Barack Obama School for Social Justice in Yonkers earlier this month to give students an end-of-the-year ambulance tour. Students also learned how stretchers and stair chairs operate.
EMTs Erika Opokuware and Cohetero Lorenzo recently visited Cesar E. Chavez School in Yonkers to give students an introduction to EMS, ambulance tours and more.
OUTREACH ACTIVITIES
Empress staff were out in force at the Stronger Together Expo in New Paltz in June. From left are Rudy Green, paramedic and education coordinator; Chris Kavanagh, paramedic and QAQI ALS coordinator; Tiffany Jury, EMT and QAQI BLS coordinator; Lt. Crew Connolly, EMT and QAQI supervisor; Lt. Andrew Doherty, safety. Not pictured are Captain Robert Szeli, Clinical Services, QAQI; Lt. Israel Torres, PCR supervisor; Union President Alanna Badgley, paramedic.
Despite the rain, we were at Caliber Collision in Poughkeepsie for Family Fun Day in June with a Touch-ATruck and other fun activities.
Above and below: Empress staff presented for the Westchester Explorers, a youth group for young people interested in public service.
Paramedic Chris Kavanagh and Lt. Crew Connolly were at DC Works, an event hosted by Dutchess Community College and arranged by State Assemblyman Jonathan Jacobson.
OUTREACH ACTIVITIES
Girl Scouts explore job opportunities in EMS
POUGHKEEPSIE — During Women’s History Month, Girl Scouts learned about EMS work at a Women’s Career Day event at Poughkeepsie Middle School for the Dutchess Tri-Valley Girl Scouts, part of Girl Scouts Heart of the Hudson.
Paramedic Mandy Winslow and EMT Sam Snyder from Empress put on a series of brief presentations for small groups of scouts, explaining their work as EMS professionals.
Demonstrations provided
They gave demonstrations on how stretchers and stair chairs operate and went through the Basic Life Support (BLS) gear and the ambulance as a whole, showing the Girl Scouts many of the tools they use on the job.
“We were thrilled to be there and introduce the Girl Scouts to what we do, said EMT Sam Snyder. “Hopefully some of them will be inspired to enter the EMS field as a career.”
Contact us to schedule an outreach event
• Empress EMS regularly participates in outreach activities to foster a deeper understanding of what we do and how we serve the community.
• If you are involved with a youth organization and would like to have Empress staff present about EMS careers, first-aid, safety, and more, please reach out via our contact form at empressems.com/contact-us
EMS WEEK 2025
A close-up shot of New Rochelle Mayor Yadira Ramos-Herbert presenting Empress Vice President of Operations and Chief Operating Officer Daniel Minerva with an EMS Week Proclamation.
Mayor Yadira Ramos-Herbert also took a tour of an Empress ambulance that was on site for the the proclamation presentation.
Top: Empress EMTs Elizabeth Gross and Robert Szabo from the North division represented Empress at the 2025 EMS Memorial Ceremony in Albany on May 20. Below: State Senator Rob Rolison was also on site to commemorate our fallen heroes.
EMS WEEK 2025
Top: Group shot of EMS Week Proclamation Presentation in New Rochelle. Mayor Yadira RamosHerbert is fourth in from left presenting Vice President of Operations and Chief Operating Officer Daniel Minerva with the proclamation. At far right is Vice President of Corporate Development Jim O’Connor. Bottom: Group shot of EMS Week presentation by State Senator Rob Rolison at Empress North Station in Poughkeepsie. Rolison is seventh from the right.
EMS WEEK 2025
Honoring heroes one mile at a time
Empress staff cycle in memorial ride
In 2014, Empress Paramedic Bill Rothschild noticed a small article in JEMS, the Journal of EMS magazine, about The National EMS Memorial Bike Ride. When he read that it was set to pass through both Connecticut and New York on the way to Washington, D.C., he decided that he would try participating for a day.
He was not an accomplished biker, however, and described himself as “woefully unprepared.”
“I was a Joe Homeowner pedaling with my kids around the block,” he said. As a result, his first ride was a tough experience.
“I didn’t finish the day. I did what they call ‘sagging out,’ where they give you a ride. The FDNY donates a 30-passenger van to pick people up. It’s like one of those airport shuttle things.”
But Rothschild didn’t give up. Despite the rough start, he has taken the ride ever since. This year’s eastern route covered around 477 miles over seven days — and he was there for five of them, riding about 303 miles. Cyclists can participate for any combination of days during the event, which features various routes around the country. It is followed up by the Weekend of Honor in mid-July, which includes
From left Empress Paramedics Rick Haughwout, Bill Rothschild and Matt Tuttle on this year’s EMS Memorial Bike Ride.
Empress bikers from left, Paramedic Matt Tuttle, EMT Yadira Alvarez-Lupercio, Paramedic Rick Haughwout, Paramedic Dominique Vigliotti and Paramedic Bill Rothschild.
two rides over the weekend of the National EMS Memorial Service in Arlington, Va. Rothschild said he and three other Empress employees are also taking part in this year’s Weekend of Honor.
He said he appreciates the motivation it has given him to increase his fitness level.
“That’s why I love these guys, because they have improved my life,”
EMS WEEK 2025
he said. “They’ve helped me with weight loss and gaining the stamina,” for longer rides.
He also said he enjoys the camaraderie.
“Everybody there is so nice and supportive. People keep referring to it as a race, but it’s not a race. It’s a ride,” he said, noting that it creates a sense of unity for EMS workers. Thanks to the event, he said he now has contacts all around the country. “EMS is so fractured. During this one week, there is none of that. We’re all there to support the families of people who have died in the line of duty.”
EMS Memorial bike riders are referred to as “the Muddy Angels.” Rothschild said that one rainy day, someone said, “You are like muddy angels” — and the name stuck, because even on a dry day, with the sweat and the dirt from the trail, “when you get into the shower, there’s like a mud slick that comes off you,” he said.
In contrast to the fun camaraderie among riders, the tone can rapidly become somber.
“The next thing you know, you come to one of the lunch stops, and an honoree’s wife and sons and daughter are there, and things get very serious very quickly,” he said.
Each honoree has a tag that is given to their bereaved family, and handing over the tag is an important part of the Muddy Angels experience, when the riders get to
from left are paramedics Ryan
meet their honorees’ families.
“The tags come in pairs. You always keep one, and you have one that you are ready to hand over to the family. You have riders that have been doing this for years, and they have 15-20 tags of those that they have ridden for,” Rothschild said.
He mentioned some recent honorees.
Rick
“We had three line-of-duty deaths from Delaware, including a paramedic who was in a fly car-type vehicle, and after the call was done, and he was on his way back to quarters, he came upon an accident scene where there was a pole
down, reported it — and that was the last word anyone ever heard from him.”
The paramedic had come in contact with a live wire from the pole and was electrocuted. His dispatcher, who was the last person to ever communicate with him, rode this
Above
Maclean,
Haughwout, Matt Tuttle, Ron Pugh, Shaun Washington, Bill Rothschild and EMT Yadira Alvarez-Lupercio. Below from left are paramedics Ron Pugh, Bill Rothschild, Rick Haughwout and Matt Tuttle.
THE PULSE SPRING/SUMMER
EMS WEEK 2025
year in his honor to present his tag to his family members.
Among previous honorees was former Empress Paramedic Lisa Sillins, who was struck and killed by a car as she left work on a snowy night in Newburgh.
“We rode for her and carried her tag and gave it to her cousin in Long Island. The cousin gave the tag to Lisa’s mom, and within a few months, the mother died. They said they put it in her casket with her.”
Rothschild was the first Empress employee to get involved. He encouraged his colleagues to try it out, and it gained momentum. Now several employees participate.
“I guess I’m a pretty good salesman,” he said.
As more employees participated, Empress became a supporter of the event.
“I just took a vacation day for my one-day ride, and I paid the fee myself, and then as I got more involved, I had to take more days off to do the ride. There is a daily fee for riding. It used to be $50 or $100. If you do the whole week, it’s like $700. I was always encouraging my coworkers to get involved,” he said.
Rothschild eventually asked Empress President Michael Minerva if he was willing to help support the participants by covering some of the costs involved. The answer was yes. Then one year, the ride route, which changes yearly, went di-
rectly through Yonkers, where the Empress South station is located. Rothschild asked Minerva if he would be willing to sponsor a dinner for participants. Minerva agreed to do it, and Empress rented tables, chairs, a podium and hors d’oeuvre trucks for the occasion.
Since then, the Muddy Angels have had dinner at the Yonkers station several times.
“We have our own bagpiper and bugler, and we read off the names of honorees. The notes reverberate
Left: Lisa Sillins’ cousin, far left, is comforted by Paramedic Bill Rothschild, with his arm around her, and Paramedic Alex Molina, holding her arm, as she accepts Sillins’ tag. Below: Rothschild shows some of his honorees’ tags from rides he has taken and a closeup of a tag.
off the wall. I’ve been there three or four times,” he said. “If you feed the Muddy Angels, they’re going to come back.”
And they’ll be back on their bikes again for the ride next year, whatever route it takes.
EMT, paramedics recognized for service EMS WEEK 2025
The Dutchess County EMS Council held its award ceremony in May. EMT Samantha Possenti received the BLS Provider of the Year Award. The county’s ALS Provider of the Year Award was presented to the entire Team of Empress Paramedics collectively.
Bilotto commented on Possenti’s qualifications for her award.
“Sam is recognized for her exceptional clinical skills and her consistent willingness to support her colleagues and new employees. She plays a key role in training new hires and academy cadets during their street ride-alongs. Her nominators noted that she approaches her work with a positive attitude, always arriving with a smile, and adeptly manages the stress inherent
in emergency calls,” Bilotto said.
The Dutchess County EMS Council noted her versatility and work in Quality Assurance Quality Improvement.
“Samantha has been working with Empress Emergency Medical Services out of Poughkeepsie since 2021. She not only responds on the ambulances in various communities, but she has also assisted on the office side of EMS, working with the Quality Assurance Department,” the council commented in a post on Facebook.
Empress paramedics were honored as ALS Providers of the Year by the Dutchess County EMS Council. The Council also honored the entire team of Empress paramedics who serve Dutchess County as the ALS providers of the year.
“This year, the Dutchess EMS Council was so impressed by the sheer number of exceptional ALS Provider of the Year nominations from Empress that they made a truly special decision: The entire team of Empress Paramedics in Dutchess County has been collectively honored with the award,” Bilotto said. “This outstanding recognition truly reflects the depth of talent and the consistently high level of patient care provided by every single paramedic at Empress.”
From left are Robert Ridley, current president of the Dutchess County EMS Council; Senior Director of Operations Scott Holland, Captain Robert Szeli, Lt. Crew Connolly, Dawn Marie Klingner, Secretary of the Dutchess EMS Council and Lt. Chris Aiello. In back on far right is Deputy Chief Joe Billotto.
Possenti
THE PULSE
EMS WEEK 2025
Deputy Chief Bilotto wins leadership prize
Empress Deputy Chief of Operations Joe Bilotto was presented with the Harriet C. Weber EMS Leadership Award at the Dutchess County EMS Council Awards in Millbrook on May 14.
“Joe has been working with Empress Emergency Medical Services out of Poughkeepsie for years and has been with various agencies in the Hudson Valley throughout his entire career. … These decades of service have landed him in a position to help advance EMS in our region in a unique way,” said the Dutchess County EMS Council in a Facebook post.
The Harriet C. Weber EMS Leadership Award recognizes longevity, innovation/dedication, responsibility, as well as executive and management skills in establishing, maintaining, promoting or expanding EMS organizations, agencies and committees at the community and/or state level.
“I’m incredibly honored, and quite honestly, still a bit shocked to have accepted the EMS Leadership Award in Dutchess County. When I got the call, I had no idea I was even being considered,” Bilotto said.
Harriet C. Weber is credited with founding modern emergency medical services in Ulster County in the 1950s and became a champion for volunteer medical squads. She died
in 2001 at age 85. She was Ulster’s first certified medical emergency technician instructor and later became an instructor for the American Red Cross’ advanced first-aid and emergency care course, in addition to cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
Looking back on career
Bilotto outlined his career in the EMS field.
“I started out as a street medic in 1991 with Empress in Yonkers and since then have worked for three other companies. As a supervisor with TransCare, to a chief for Harrison EMS and a captain for EMStar, I have been honored to receive a Leadership Award and ALS Provider of the year in Westchester and Putnam counties. For 34 years, I was out on the street, providing patient care daily as a medic and a supervisor.”
Recently, his career took a new turn.
“About a year and a half ago, I transitioned into a new role as deputy chief of the North/West Divisions, which has truly been a different experience. What many don’t see is the significant amount of work that goes on behind the scenes to ensure our operations run smoothly across the five counties we serve. It’s a complex dance to make everything flow seamlessly,”
Deputy Chief Joe Bilotto
Bilotto said.
He stressed the importance of surrounding yourself with exceptional people and working together.
“When you do that, your team — and, by extension, you as a leader — will always succeed. I’m so proud of our supervisor team and all our employees here at Empress. It’s been remarkable to see how well everyone, including those who joined us from the companies we’ve acquired, has come together. We’ve successfully integrated the strengths of Empress with valuable ideas and policies from other organizations, and that collaborative spirit has been key to our success.”
Overall, he said the award reflected the dedication and hard work of the team.
“This award isn’t just for me. … Because, as the saying goes, ‘Leadership is not about being the best; Leadership is about making everyone else better.’ And I am so fortunate to work with a team that truly embodies that spirit.”
EMS WEEK 2025
Lt. Tim Morano noted for excellence
Empress’s North Division Communications Supervisor Lt. Tim Morano was honored as Orange County’s Communications Specialist of the Year by HVREMSCO (Hudson Valley Regional Emergency Medical Services Council).
Described as a dedicated EMS communications specialist, Morano is highly regarded for his exceptional skill, professionalism, and composure under pressure. His ability to manage high-stakes situations while coordinating emergency responses has earned him a reputation as an invaluable asset to EMS operations.
“Lieutenant Tim Morano is the calm in the chaos. His voice, instincts, and unwavering professionalism ensure that help is always one call away,” said Captain Robert Szeli, Clinical Services, Quality Assurance and Quality Improvement for Empress North. “His leadership doesn’t just support Empress and other first responders, it saves lives.”
Morano was praised for exemplifying dedication and responsibility on the job. His ability to remain calm
Communications Supervisor Lt. Tim Morano was honored as Orange County’s Communications Specialist of the Year.
and decisive in critical situations was cited as crucial in helping first responders obtain the information they need to provide timely, life-saving care.
His leadership and experience have made him a trusted figure among his peers, and his commitment to improving emergency communications has enhanced response efficiency and patient outcomes.
In mentoring and training new dispatchers, Morano is recognized for strong leadership skills, emphasizing accuracy, professionalism,
and quick thinking. His dedication to improving EMS communications — whether through training, innovation or collaboration — was credited as having strengthened the entire system.
“His work behind the scenes ensures that first responders arrive prepared, supported, and ready to save lives,” Szeli said.
EMS WEEK 2025
Putnam County EMS Council Award winners from left: EMT
Samantha Possenti, Paramedic Ruben Castillo, Paramedic
Christopher Casey, Paramedic Ryan Dennison, Lt. Ashley Lawton and Lt. Chris Aiello. Employees not able to attend who also received awards are Paramedic Mike Blatus, Paramedic Joel Cadet, Paramedic Steve Celestri, Paramedic Thomas Orpikowski, EMT Sarah Baker, Lt. Ben Bernard and EMT Austin Cekuta.
OTHER HONOREES
Exceptional Patient Care & Class B Life Save Awards
Ulster County:
Paramedic Jason Crisostomo
— Life Save Award
Garnett Health Awards:
EMT Tyler VanBuren
Paramedic Nicole Casiano
EMT Brendan O’Grady
Lt. Paramedic Malachi Leidich
Paramedic Sean Nolan (West)
Paramedic Lt. Karen Martin (West)
EMT Edward Bertram (West)
Paramedic Andrew Haber
PUTNAM HONOREES
Exceptional Patient Care & Class B Life Save Awards
EMT Sarah Baker
Lt. Ben Bernard — EMT
Lt. Paramedic Ashley
Lawton — Two Exceptional Patient Care; two Class B Save
Paramedic Steven Celestri
Paramedic Ruben Castillo
Paramedic Allison Gorski
Paramedic Joel Cadet
Paramedic Thomas Orpikowski
Paramedic Mike Blatus
Lt. Paramedic Chris Aiello
— One Exceptional Patient Care; one Class B Save
EMT Austin Cekuta
EMT Samantha Possenti
Paramedic Ryan Dennison
Paramedic Daryn Baia — Class B save
Paramedic Christopher
Casey — Two Exceptional Patient Care; one Class B save
EMS WEEK 2025
Deputy Chief Sean O’Brien honored with EMS Leadership Award
Empress Deputy Chief Sean O’Brien was honored with the EMS Leadership Award by the Westchester REMSCO (Regional Emergency Medical Services Council). The award is presented in recognition of O’Brien’s exceptional dedication to EMS education, workforce development, and patient care at Empress.
His innovative approach to recruitment, training, and international collaboration has had a profound impact on both Empress and the greater EMS community. His commitment to professional development ensures that EMTs and paramedics receive top-tier instruction and ongoing education, equipping them with the skills necessary to provide outstanding patient care.
Recognizing the challenges of EMS staffing, he took the lead on groundbreaking initiatives to attract new professionals to the field. Most notably, he has been at the forefront of the Australian paramedic initiative, collaborating with New York State to facilitate the transition of international paramedics into the U.S. healthcare system. His meticulous work in training, gap analysis, and onthe-road support has ensured that
‘Through education, collaboration and fieldwork, Sean has established himself as a trusted leader and mentor in the EMS community.’
Steven
Goldstein
Paramedic Clinical Coordinator
these paramedics not only integrate smoothly but also thrive in their new environment.
Despite his administrative responsibilities, Sean remains
dedicated to frontline EMS work serving patients directly and demonstrating a commitment to high-quality care. His leadership extends beyond Empress, as he has built strong relationships with key agencies such as the Fire Department of Mount Vernon (FDMV), New Rochelle Fire Department (NRFD), Yonkers Police Department (YPD), Yonkers Fire Department (YFD), and Westchester County Police Department (WCPD).
“Through education, collaboration, and fieldwork, Sean has established himself as a trusted leader and mentor in the EMS community,” said Steven Goodstein, Paramedic Clinical Coordinator.
The WREMSCO awards were presented at a ceremony at Westchester Community College in May.
O’Brien
EMS WEEK 2025
EMT/educator receives recognition for lifesaving overdose intervention
EMT Manuel Perlera of Yonkers is being recognized with a Meritorious Award by Westchester REMSCO (Regional Emergency Medical Services Council) for his quick thinking and lifesaving actions on Aug. 30, 2024.
After completing his shift, Perlera was in a laundromat when someone called for help. He ran outside and found a man who was unresponsive, blue, and not breathing.
Recognizing signs of an overdose, Perlera asked a bystander to go to a nearby pharmacy for some NARCAN while he focused on keeping the patient’s airway open and doing what he could to maintain life support.
When the bystander returned with the NARCAN, Perlera administered two doses, leading to the restoration of breathing and responsiveness by the patient. Perlera provided an update on
Continued on page 16
EMT Manuel Perlera, left, with South Academy Instructor Alexandria Williams during a recent graduation. Perlera helps instruct Academy students as part of his EMS work.
‘It is an honor to work alongside an individual like Manuel Perlera, whose dedication and skill shine brightly in every action he takes.’
Sean O’Brien Deputy Chief Empress EMS South
HONOREES OF THE YEAR
Leadership of the Year: Deputy Chief Sean O’Brien
Paramedic of the Year: Lieutenant Emma Vargas
EMT of the Year: EMT Jordan Drew
Communications Specialist of the Year: SSC/EMT Tiffany Nunez
2024 LIFE SAVING AWARD WINNERS
Jan. 11: Paramedic Michele Morris, Paramedic Michael Ceriani, EMT Silvio Gonzalez, EMT Andrea Tandol
Jan 12: Lt. Rose Moran, EMT Lileth Bonsenor, EMT
Emmanuel Vazquez-Almaraz
Feb. 1: Paramedic Matthew Tuttle
Feb. 3: Paramedic Brian Fleming
Feb. 3: Paramedic Alex Santaquilani, Paramedic
the care he had provided when an Empress paramedic arrived, ensuring the patient was moved smoothly to the next level of care.
After this successful intervention, Perlera returned to the laundromat, where he was greeted with a round of applause from bystanders.
“This act of heroism further demonstrates the core qualities that define Manuel as an EMT:
Esperanza Palacios
Feb. 14: Paramedic Ana Dipaola, Lt. Mikardo Powell, EMT Ezekiel Valdez
Feb. 20: Paramedic Kenneth Ray Capellan, Lt. Daniel Da Silva, EMT Danielle RossFountain, EMT Jaedon PinoHall
July 2: Lt. Soshana Bonnick, EMT Vanessa Hewitt
Sept. 23: Paramedic Paulina Afriyie, Lt. Mikardo Powell,
Compassion, professionalism, and a steadfast commitment to the safety and well-being of those he serves,” said Deputy Chief Sean O’Brien.
A noteworthy background
Perlera’s personal story is also noteworthy. Arriving in the U.S. at age 19, he did not know English but learned the language quickly and found his calling in emergency medical services. Over the past
EMT Andrew Martin
Sept. 28: Lt. Myquan Alston, EMT Avery McEwan, EMT Yendy Campbell
Oct. 8: Lt. Rose Moran, EMT
Christina Ayala, EMT Jeremiah Campbell
Nov. 20: Paramedic Richard Haughwout, EMT Maureen Edwards
Nov. 26: Paramedic Peter Primrose, EMT Robert Lunde
20 years, he has helped countless people in their times of greatest need. He also shares his knowledge and experience with the next generation at the Empress EMS Academy South in Yonkers.
“It is an honor to work alongside an individual like Manuel Perlera, whose dedication and skill shine brightly in every action he takes. We are proud to have him as part of our team,” O’Brien said.
MERITORIOUS SERVICE HONOREES
• Manuel Perlera
• Captain Paul Mellamphy, EMT Dainy Estrada, EMT
Jordany Perez
• Lieutenant Daniel Da Silva, EMT Jalia Williams, EMT
Brendon Henrys
• Paramedic Stacey Zentek, EMT Vrinda Raghubar, EMT Joshua Brown
• Paramedic Anthony Gambardella, EMT John
Wallace
• Lieutenant Toni Lemke, EMT Daniel Breitman, EMT Andrew Martin, EMT Quamel Muhammad
EMS WEEK 2025
Taking some time out to celebrate all we do
During EMS Week, Empress makes an extra effort to show how much we appreciate our employees by treating them to some tasty meals, whether through a family-oriented barbecue in the parking lot at our Yonkers station, through a series of food trucks on two main sites in Poughkeepsie and Yonkers, or even special treats out in the field.
Clockwise, starting above left: A cookout was held at the Yonkers station on Sunday, May 18, to kick off the week. Top right: Empress employees enjoy frozen treats in Sullivan County. Middle and bottom right: Empress North employees enjoy tasty edibles from the food trucks in Poughkeepsie.
A Mass Casualty Incident drill was held at White Plains Hospital recently. The event simulated a crash between a train and a truck resulting in a release of chlorine gas. Volunteer actors, Empress EMTs and paramedics participated in the event.
SIMULATED SITUATION
SERVICE ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
25 YEARS
Captain Sue Legris, seen here with Deputy Chief Walt McCabe, is celebrating 25 years of service.
15 YEARS
EMT Joshua Horowitz, right, is celebrating 15 years of service. He is seen here with Paramedic Molina Martinez.
20 YEARS
Director of Business Development Hanan Cohen, seen here with Vice President of Operations and Chief Operating Officer Daniel Minerva is celebrating 20 years of service.
15 YEARS
EMT Christopher McGrath is celebrating 15 years of service.
SERVICE ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
15
YEARS
15
YEARS
EMT Nakia Morales is celebrating 15 years of service.
Paramedic Brian Madsen, left, and EMT G. Jenny Velez, right, are both celebrating 15 years of service.
10-year anniversaries
EMT Jillian Divi
Matthew Chan, Chief Shop
Stewart for the Union
Sandy Wilson, CIC
5-year anniversaries
Lt. Myquan Alston
EMT Kashawn Barnes
Lt. Rachel Bourne
EMT Abby Brennan
EMT Yendy Campbell
Medic Brooke DiPaola
Lt. Amber Draper
Lt. Danielle Foca
Medic Mariah Franco
EMT Gustavo Garcia-Say
EMT Mirsha Hernandez
Medic Paul Hoffman
Lt. Toni Lemke
EMT Benjamin Marner
Lt. Rose Moran
Medic Eimy Perez
Medic Kristina Rella
Medic Natalie Rivera
Lt. Alex Scalf
Medic Danielle Tardio
1-year anniversaries
EMT Abdul-Malik Akbar
EMT Sarah Baysinger
EMT Tyshaun Brown
Medic Shelby Cacciavoni
Medic Gonzalo Cavajani
EMT Lauren Colon
EMT Chloe Crooks
EMT Sierra Denny
Medic Brooke DiPaola
EMT Angela Desana
EMT Stephanie Dorney
EMT Yesenia Flores
EMT Josue Gomez
EMT Silvio Gonzalez
EMT Vanessa Hewitt
EMT Lilly Hoffman
EMT Christopher Hartfield Jr.
EMT Mirsha Hernandez
EMT DeJesus Morales
EMT Rhandy Morales
EMT Adrian Perez
EMT Alex Peterson
EMT Theresa Robinson
EMT Alexsandria Roman
EMT Kemar Rookwood
IT Technician Artem Safinskyi
EMT Sohan Saha
EMT Thomas Salvatore
EMT Vito Siciliano
EMT Gianna Tardio
EMT Frank Tassone
EMT Obez Vargas
SCENES FROM THE ACADEMY
Our EMS Academy graduates go through some simulated emergency experiences to practice their skills. Here are some photos ...
Extrication Day: Cadets in Empress South Academy practice extricating pretend patients from vehicles.
Soft Tissue Injury Day: Empress North Academy Instructor Sandra WIlson helps cadets simulate and practice treating soft-tissue wounds.
Injection Day: An Empress North Academy cadet practices giving an injection using a lemon as recipient.
EMS Olympics: EMT cadet Donte Charlton competes in the vital signs relay with “patient” Empress Lt. Sheri Baia Holland.
SCENES FROM THE ACADEMY
Simulating a birth: North Academy cadets practice delivering a baby.
Splinting: Cadets in Empress South Academy work on splinting procedures.
Right: Empress North cadets practice giving CPR.
Choking prevention: Cadets in Empress South Academy practice the Heimlich Manouver.
Congratulations to all
The Empress EMS Academy is pleased to announce the graduation of 27 students in its spring 2025 session. The South Academy held its graduation on June 20 in Yonkers and the North Academy on July 7 in Poughkeepsie. These two groups of new EMTs are the second classes to graduate in 2025.
During the North graduation ceremony, Assistant Director of Education Dave Grass thanked the graduates for participating, and their loved ones for providing emotional support.
“We congratulate the cadets that have worked hard over the course of the last 11½ weeks. We are going to encourage them and support them as they go out into the field and start their internships as brandnew Emergency Medical Technicians, but we also celebrate how they got here, and that’s you and everything else,” Grass said. He noted that the intensive course is challenging, and many of the participants were not expecting what they signed up for.
“Most of them came in wide-eyed and full of excitement — and then, in a couple of weeks, that excitement turned into, ‘What have I gotten myself into?’ Even though we warned them on day one this is going to be a lot of work in a short period of time, most of them went ‘OK,’ blinked about twice, then realized ‘This is a lot of work in a short time.’ But each of them accepted the challenge and completed
Spring 2025 Academy North Graduates
Meagan Boughton, Walter Cervantes, Taylor Cruz, Dominic Desmarais, Wyatt Garner, Caitlyn Howley, Jessica Matthew, Alecs Pabilonia, Janelle Ramirez, Quintin Rosenthal, Collin Sciamatore, John Trazino, Daniel Vulaj
Winter 2025 Academy North Graduates
Alison Benkwitt, Kaylah Gardineer, Olga Grinberg, Ashley Hoag, Joseph Lopez, Declan Manning, William Parkinson, Riess Ogden, Seyid Sagdic and Desiree Torres
our Academy graduates!
Spring 2025 Academy South Graduates
Tangella Boyd, Bryelle Brumfield, Kevin Cooper Jr., Brandon DeLaurentiis, Aidan Gomez, Khristina Graham, Heilyn Keller Leyba, Aaliyah Martin, Brendon Mitchell, Mike Monegro, Jessica Polanco Rodriguez, Quintin Smith, Dylan Tejada, Keila Velzquez
Winter 2025 Academy South Graduates
Jolivette Concepcion, Adalberto Frias Lemo, Jaidon Hernandez, Maiky Lugo, Baronique Russell, Jason Saavedra-Lucero, Brayan Palacios, Joseph Guevara, James Kavanagh, Jonathan Lavanda, Irving Maldonado, Anthony Rodriguez, Jaida Tejeda Arias, Isabel Velin Angulo and Andelson Villar
the program.”
North Academy Instructor Sandra Wilson emphasized that being in the field will offer the graduates even more opportunities to learn.
“I taught you how to be an EMT — the skills. Now, you have to go out and figure out what kind of EMT you’re going to be. … People are going to show you different ways of doing things. I taught you by the book, but when you’re out in the field, you’re going to find a lot of times that the book goes out the window, and you have to compromise and figure things out, and that’s what I always liked about EMS, because no two calls were ever the same. You can have two chest pain calls, but they are completely different. I’m so happy for all of you starting your journeys, because I have the best people in my life from my EMS journey, and I hope you guys can form the same bonds like I have over the years.”
Grass encouraged the graduates to continue learning and challenging themselves as EMTs.
“Today is just the beginning of a journey. So remember, it took you almost 12 weeks to get where you are today — but your education, your learning, your experiences don’t stop today. Constantly challenge
THE PULSE SPRING/SUMMER
yourself to the next level of perfection, the next level of the best quality care that you can provide, because that’s exactly what the public expects of us. They expect that every single day, the newest, the brightest, and the most talented individuals are going to be the ones caring for them and their loved ones. Challenge yourselves to be that person every single day.”
He also advised the graduates to remember the perspective of the patients calling for help.
“No one calls EMS when it’s their birthday and they’re having a great day. When do they call us? On the worst day of their life. They expect you to be the calm in the storm they are experiencing. So, remember compassion, remember why it is you started down this road.”
Grads reflect on their whys
Meaghan Boughton, who was named North Academy class valedictorian during the ceremony, said she has a family background in EMS work that drew her to this line of work.
“My father is a 911 dispatcher, so my family is in emergency services. I had uncles who were cops, detectives, so I really wanted to get into the field,” she said. “I just wanted to expand my career, so I decided to go into EMT. Right now, I’m just looking forward to getting out into the field and making more connections with the community.”
For fellow graduate Daniel Vulaj, it was something he decided to try
About the Academy
Founded in 2019, the Empress EMS Academy is an ideal starting point for a career in emergency medical services. Apart from EMT work, Empress also provides opportunities to specialize in logistics, community paramedics, quality improvement, and emergency communications. The Academy operates EMS training sites in Poughkeepsie and Yonkers.
‘Constantly challenge yourself to the next level of perfection, the next level of the best quality care that you can provide.’
David Grass
Assistant Director of Education
Empress
EMS Academy
as I figured out what I wanted to do,” he said. “As I started doing the class, I realized that I enjoy doing this, and my expectations are just to learn a lot more. We learned a lot in class, but I feel that when you’re on the road, it’s a lot different — more hands-on — a lot that we still have to practice on the road, and I’m excited to do what I learned to do in class.”
About the EMS Academy
Learn more
Those with questions can reach out by email at training@empressems. com or on the website at empressems.com/contact-us
when he wasn’t sure what he wanted to do — and then he discovered he enjoyed the work.
“I first joined because I didn’t really know what I wanted to do, and I got the opportunity. Somebody told me about it, and I thought it could be something I could do for a while
The Empress EMS Academy is an intensive 12-week course held multiple times per year in Yonkers and Poughkeepsie. Students must be at least 19 years old, have a valid driver’s license and meet certain educational prerequisites to qualify.
Those accepted into the program are paid while being taught the skills needed to pass the New York State EMT Exam. They receive free access to a textbook, free uniforms and more. Once they graduate, they are asked to work as full-time EMTs with Empress for a year. Those who cannot keep this commitment are asked to reimburse the cost of tuition.
Empress is one of the largest, most experienced emergency and non-emergency response providers in the Bronx, Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster and Westchester counties as well as New York City.
EMPRESS SOUTH
722 Nepperhan Ave., Yonkers 914.965.5040
EMPRESS NORTH 10 S. White St., Poughkeepsie 845.621.9300
EMPRESS BRONX 1315 Loomis St., Bronx 888.965.5040
EMPRESS ROCKLAND 16 Carol Ave, Suite 5, West Haverstraw
EMPRESS SULLIVAN 266 Main St., Hurleyville 845.436.9111 @empressems @empressems @empressems
