2004 Stars of Life Celebration

May 2–5, Omni Shoreham Hotel, Washington, DC

The American Ambulance Association will hold its 13th Stars of Life Celebration in conjunction with the AAA Board Meeting in Washington, DC, at the Omni Shoreham Hotel, May 2–5.

The celebration recognizes and honors dedicated ambulance service professionals, choosing its “Stars” from a pool of nominees selected for many possible reasons: employee of the year; on- or off-duty service above and beyond the call of duty, as in special or unique rescues or volunteer community contributions; set significant records; exemplified a consistent service record in keeping with the operation’s mission; or demonstrated local leadership in developing community partnerships that enhance homeland security.

The “Stars” will have the opportunity to meet with members of Congress on Capitol Hill, to discuss issues and educate U.S. Representatives and Senators about the value of ensuring quality ambulance services as a key component in an effective and efficient healthcare delivery system. Pre-meeting sessions will include updates on specific legislation before Congress—including homeland security, tort and medical malpractice reform, Public Safety Officer Benefits, and technical amendments to the 2003 Medicare reform legislation—that affect local operations, personnel and patients. Every attendee will be registered in AAA’s Grassroots Leadership Network, which provides members with tools for effective communication with community and government leaders.

Key objectives of the Stars of Life programs are to raise visibility for ambulance issues by generating positive media coverage for participating organizations; encourage grassroots involvement in both local and national issues pertaining to ambulance services; and provide motivational events that recognize employee accomplishments. For more information, call 800/523-4447.

CAA Conducts First Annual Stars Award

The California Ambulance Association conducted its first annual Stars of Life award ceremony and two days of events at the state capitol in Sacramento, March 10–11, 2004. The 45 “Star” guests of honor were exemplary and heroic paramedics, EMTs, emergency dispatchers and other EMS personnel from throughout California.

In many cases, the Stars were being honored for their professionalism and heroic actions; for having put themselves in harm’s way while responding to and caring for victims of Southern California’s wildland fires, floods and resulting mudslides; mass casualty incidents such as the Santa Monica Farmer’s Market disaster; a 198-car pile-up in Long Beach, a train derailment, a bridge collapse and car fires; and for rescuing people while on and off duty in a variety of other dangerous situations. The CAA also recognized those Stars who have demonstrated contributions of self-sacrifice and who continue to save lives through charitable service and community injury-prevention education.

Besides the CAA ceremony, the Stars were honored by legislative resolutions from the state Senate and Assembly, and met individually with members of government to make their case for quality ambulance services.

—KR