A Time to Recognize

May is a time of recognition for the EMS industry as we come together to celebrate EMS Week, May 14-20. This year's theme is "EMS: Serving on Health Care's Front Line," and at no time has this been more true than now for EMS. Following this year's very public public-safety response to the many natural disasters that beset this nation, ACEP, the sponsor of EMS Week, chose to highlight the important role of EMS providers in responding to emergencies. Special events being celebrated in conjunction with EMS Week include Emergency Medical Services for Children Day, the National Memorial Bike Ride and the Annual National Moment of Silence. For more, turn to page 18.

     EMS Magazine also recognizes the efforts of EMS providers through a series of award programs. The nomination period for these programs ends on June 1. I would like to remind all readers to submit their applications for the following awards as soon as possible.

     EMS Magazine's Gold Award honors both a paid and volunteer service for dedication, teamwork and commitment to EMS. Achievement areas include education and training, technical excellence, and injury and illness prevention. Winners receive big prizes from our corporate sponsors (see page 86).

     The EMS Magazine's/Braun Industries' EMT/Paramedic of the Year Award recognizes superior performance of duties, commitment to education and research, and innovations in prehospital care and community involvement. The winner receives a $1,000 savings bond from Braun Industries.

     Finally, the EMS Advanced Education Scholarship Program acknowledges the educational achievements of EMS providers through a scholarship to EMS EXPO.

     All winners receive free travel, lodging and registration at the 2006 EMS EXPO. To request an application form, e-mail Nancy.Perry@cygnusb2b.com, or download forms from www.emsresponder.com/awards.jsp