Unsung Hero: Richard Fernandez, Retired NYPD Sergeant and Community Volunteer

Unsung Hero: Richard Fernandez, Retired NYPD Sergeant and Community Volunteer

By Barry Warner A history of volunteerism has demonstrated Richard Fernandez’s commitment to his community and willingness to work for the betterment of others. Despite being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis 20 years ago, Fernandez has never stopped volunteering for his community and has inspired most who come in contact with him as a result. He […]

Unsung Hero: Paul Morer, Volunteer Chief 0f the Nyack Community Ambulance Corps

Unsung Hero: Paul Morer, Volunteer Chief 0f the Nyack Community Ambulance Corps

By Barry Warner Calling an ambulance has many benefits over driving to the hospital on one’s own. Ambulances are staffed with Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) who are trained in handling medical emergencies, able to provide medical attention on the way to the hospital, prepared to handle the situation if it worsens, able to navigate through […]

UNSUNG HERO: Brianne Murphy, Volunteer Firefighter, Suffern Hose Company #1

UNSUNG HERO: Brianne Murphy, Volunteer Firefighter, Suffern Hose Company #1

BY BARRY WARNER With temperatures expected to reach over 90 degrees this week, fighting fires seems even more heroic than usual!  Suffern volunteer firefighters respond to emergencies wearing very heavy equipment in thick, insulated suits that can raise a person’s body temperature above 100 degrees. Because of this, firefighters are at an increased risk of […]

Unsung Hero: Diane France, Volunteer Firefighter, Suffern Hose Company #1

Unsung Hero: Diane France, Volunteer Firefighter, Suffern Hose Company #1

BY BARRY WARNER Firefighters who fight structure fires have to deal with an additional challenge this week: the excessive heat wave. Firefighters wear heavy turnout gear that makes it difficult to stay cool. They have to be fully encapsulated with no area of skin exposed to blistering temperatures. Through mutual-aid or agreement with other departments, […]