As we start to slowly emerge from the pandemic, it was appropriate that front-line responders and nurses were honored with proclamations and citations tonight. Thirteen officers from the Fanwood Police Department received citations for extraordinary service to the town, intervening in a number of life-threatening situations to arrest perpetrators, help save lives and get victims medical assistance. Several officers were also recognized for their service specific to the COVID pandemic. Additional info is contained in a separate email.
Captain Ian Lewis and President Jamie Pedinoff of the Fanwood Rescue Squad accepted an EMS Week proclamation presented by Councilman Jeff Banks, the council liaison to the rescue squad. Councilman Banks expressed the Council’s appreciation for the volunteers who answer calls for medical assistance with particular attention to patients exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19.
Councilwoman Kathy Mitchell, a registered nurse, presented a proclamation for Nurses Week. Local nurses at Chelsea Senior Living and at local and regional medical practitioners have rendered heroic service during the COVID pandemic.
Councilwoman Erin McElroy Barker presented a proclamation designating Fanwood a Stigma-Free Zone for those suffering from mental illness. The designation ensures those seeking and obtaining treatment or counseling for mental health issues can do so without being stigmatized, and that mental health resources are available. Fanwood joins many New Jersey communities embracing the Stigma-Free campaign.
