Mayor Courtney Peters-Manning hosted the second annual Mayors’ Awards for First Responders at the Woolsey Park Bandshell.
The Mayors’ Awards recognized the bravery, service, and dedication of Hopewell Valley’s police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and public works personnel who went above and beyond to keep the community safe on June 7.
“Today, we honor the selfless and extraordinary courage of Hopewell Valley’s first responders,” said Peters-Manning during the ceremony. “In moments of crisis, these individuals have stepped forward with courage, compassion, and true leadership.”
The Hopewell Township Committee would like to extend its sincere appreciation to Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson, Assemblyman Anthony Verrelli, and Mercer County Commissioner Samuel Frisby for offering thoughtful and inspiring remarks.
Their presence helped underscore the significance of the occasion and the vital role first responder’s play in keeping our communities safe.
The Hopewell Township Police Honor Guard started the event by presenting the colors.
The Awards for Hopewell Township were presented by Mayor Peters-Manning:
Hopewell Township Public Works
Recipient: Michael Mendez, Truck Driver
While on brush collection Mendez noticed a stalled vehicle in the intersection of Chicory Lane and Hedgecroft Drive. The vehicle was still in drive and the driver and passenger were unresponsive.
He immediately called 911 and began directing traffic away from the vehicle while waiting for authorities to arrive, most likely saving the lives of the occupants.
Hopewell Township Police Department (HTPD)
Recipients: Patrol Officer Blake DeMeter and Patrol Officer Michael Enriquez
Officer DeMeter and Officer Enriquez responded to a Pleasant Valley Road address for calls of distress and what was later determined to be an attempted homicide.
DeMeter was first to arrive at the scene, drawing his firearm and giving the armed suspect clear commands. When the suspect ignored commands and made an attempt to flee into nearby woods, DeMeter pursued him on foot.
Both officers were able to secure the suspect and ensure that all parties received medical attention and survived.
DeMeter and Enriquez also received the HTPD Valor Award, which was presented by Police Chief James Rosso.
Union Fire and Rescue Squad
Recipient: Doug Pszczolkowski, EMT Treasurer
Pszczolkowski has held several key leadership positions since joining the Union Fire and Rescue Squad, including Treasurer, EMS Captain, Health and Safety Officer, and EMS Training Officer.
One of his main achievements includes helping the squad continue to operate through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, despite a limited number of EMTs.
Doug also serves on various committees within the Hopewell Valley community, exhibiting his true dedication to putting the needs of others before his own.
Hopewell Valley Emergency Services
Recipient: Fire Lt. Robert Bailey
Known for his leadership during major events such as Hurricanes Irene and Sandy, Lt. Bailey is a trusted and accomplished leader within the fire and emergency services community of Hopewell Valley.
He was an integral part in the formation and success of many programs, including the Hopewell Valley Technical Rescue Task Force and the Mercer County Youth Fire Setting Prevention and Intervention Program, where he currently serves as co-chairperson of the program.
Awards were also presented to honorees in both Hopewell Borough, presented by Mayor Ryan Kennedy, and Pennington Borough, presented by Fire Chief Roger Demareski.
Hopewell Fire Department
Recipient: Assistant Chief William Springer
William Springer is a certified EMT who worked his way up to assistant chief. He was a founding member of the Mercer County Rapid Response Partnership, as well as serving on the Radio Governance Committee.
He later joined the Hopewell Township Police Department as a dispatcher, taking a leave of absence to go to the police academy and become a police officer. During his career, he played a pivotal role in solving a high-profile missing persons case linked to serial killer Joel Rifkin.
Recipient: Second Lt. Audra Tunison
Audra Tunison is a top EMT responder who leads Friday night duty crews and is committed to volunteer excellence. She began volunteering in 2012, serving a variety of roles and worked her way up to second lieutenant. She is always mentoring new members, while also keeping more seasoned members up to date.
Pennington Fire Company
Recipient: Pennington Fire Auxiliary
The Pennington Fire Auxiliary is a group of spouses and supporters of the Pennington Fire Company, who play a fundraising role and host events for members, such as Breakfast with Santa and the annual Fire Officer Potluck Dinner.
In addition to that, they host events for the community such as the pancake breakfast, the annual holiday walk, Halloween candy event and Operation Santa.
Their primary role is to support first responders during and after an emergency and have assisted in major events such as the Pennington School fire, the Van Doren Lumberyard fire, and most recently the Poor Farm Road Forest Fire, supporting hundreds of firefighters from multiple counties in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
