Utica, NY — Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon (D-119) proudly hosted First Responders Appreciation Day on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at the Utica State Office Building, honoring the brave men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting the Mohawk Valley. The event, held in partnership with Highstreet Gates-ColeInsurance, featured free coffee and donuts for all first responders and the presentation of a New York State Legislative Resolution officially proclaiming October 28th as First Responders Day in the State of New York.
The resolution, Assembly Resolution 2025-K544, sponsored by Assemblywoman Buttenschon and adopted by the New York State Assembly, memorializes Governor Kathy Hochul to recognize and honor the everyday heroes who serve their communities with courage, compassion, and unwavering dedication.
“Today is about showing our appreciation for the men and women who never hesitate to help others,” said Assemblywoman Buttenschon. “Our first responders give so much of themselves, often without recognition, and they do it out of love for their community. This event is just a small gesture compared
to the sacrifices they make, but it comes from a place of genuine gratitude and deep respect for all they do.”
Throughout the morning, firefighters, police officers, EMTs, 911 dispatchers, and other emergency personnel gathered to connect, share stories, and reflect on their shared mission of protecting the public. Chiefs from local fire, police, and ambulance agencies were invited to nominate members of their departments who go above and beyond in service to others.
During the ceremony, each nominee received a New York State Assembly Certificate of Recognition, presented by Assemblywoman Buttenschon, and a Certificate of Appreciation from Gates-Cole Insurance.
This year’s honorees were:
● Captain Barton Paczkowski, Rome Fire Department – Recognized for his exemplary leadership and courage during a February 2025 building collapse rescue and for his ongoing mentorship and training excellence within the department.
● Firefighter/Paramedic Garret Tomaino, Utica Fire Department — Honored for his exceptional service since 2011, currently serving on Rescue 2, one of the most technically demanding companies. Firefighter Tomaino is celebrated for his calm under pressure, technical proficiency, and unrelenting commitment to the safety of both residents and his fellow firefighters.
● Assistant Chief Daryl Buornatt, Oriskany Fire Department – Acknowledged for his decades of service and steadfast dedication to the community. Daryl Buornatt is a 40-year member and has been extremely active during his entire tenure with the agency. Most of that time, AC Buornatt has served as a line officer and recently excelled as training coordinator, serving both in local education and on a statewide FASNY committee.
● Lieutenant Thomas Dwyer, New York Mills Fire Department – A dedicated member who responds to hundreds of alarms annually, serving as both Lieutenant and Captain. A senior EMT and longtime fire safety advocate, he has educated nearly 700 students this year and has held leadership positions statewide, including President of the Central New York Firefighters Association.
● Assistant Fire Chief Steve Pawlinga, Deerfield Volunteer Fire Department – Recognized for his tireless dedication to the department and the citizens of Deerfield. A true leader, he balances his full-time career, family, and volunteer service with unwavering commitment, providing guidance, mentorship, and an invaluable presence within the department.
● Assistant Fire Chief Scott Adsit, Yorkville Fire Department – Assistant Chief Adsit is an incredible asset to the department, bringing years of experience, calm leadership during crises, and a deep commitment to public safety. Known for his kindness and ability to mentor others, he exemplifies the qualities of a true servant-leader.
● Assistant Chief Randal B. Caldwell, Maynard Fire Department – is a 42-year member of the Maynard Fire Department. Randy continues to lead by example and upholds the highest standards of firefighter training. In 2025 alone, he renewed his New York State Emergency Medical Technician certification (72 hours), completed ICS-300 (24 hours), earned his National Pro Board Fire Officer I certification, and went on to complete Fire Officer II (40 hours), achieving his National Pro Board Fire Officer II certification. Randy still has another 2 months to go in 2025!!
● Safety Officer Brian McQueen, Whitesboro Volunteer Fire Department – For his leadership of the Fire Prevention program for the Fire Dept. He organized the visits to the Whitesboro Central School along with the day care programs in the Fire Protection Program of the Village of Whitesboro.
● Investigator Renee DeLong, Oneida County Sheriff’s Office Domestic Violence Unit – Honored for her dedication to protecting survivors of domestic violence and ensuring offenders are held accountable.
● Officer Scott Eisenhart, Oneida County Sheriff’s Office Civil Division – Commended for his quick action administering life-saving CPR and Narcan while on duty, saving an overdose victim’s life.
● Correction Officer Bradley Chapman, Oneida County Sheriff’s Office Correctional Facility –
Recognized for his life-saving response to a medical emergency inside the jail, administering Narcan and
calling for help that led to a successful recovery.
● Lieutenant Michael Curley, Utica Police Department – Celebrated for his leadership within the Criminal Investigation Division, his role as Public Information Officer, and his dedication to transparency and service.
● Officer Rick Hill, Utica Police Department – Honored for his role as program manager for state
accreditation and his leadership in maintaining professional standards across the department.
● Officers Amanda Maciol, Marissa Vomer, and Therapy Dog Penny, Utica Police Department –
Recognized for their outstanding work with the department’s Crisis Response Unit, assisting residents facing mental health challenges and connecting them to critical services.
● Officer Matthew Heinrich, Rome Police Department – Officer Heinrich is a 7-year veteran of the Rome Police Department. Throughout his service, he has been a consistently proactive and positive presence. As a five-year member of the Honor Guard, Officer Heinrich regularly volunteers his time to honor both the community and the law enforcement profession. He takes on every assignment with enthusiasm and
professionalism, setting an example of leadership and pride for his fellow officers. His commitment to public service and his role within the department make him highly deserving of recognition.
● Officer Michael Firley, Village of Yorkville Police Department – Honored for his exceptional
investigative work, leading multiple complex felony cases including rape and larceny investigations. His professionalism, empathy toward victims, and dedication to justice reflect the highest standards of law enforcement and community service.
● Senior Investigator Doug Rusinko, NYS Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, Office of Special Investigations – Celebrated for his leadership in locating and safely apprehending dangerous parole fugitives. Beyond his professional work, he embodies compassion by identifying and supporting families in need during the holidays, organizing donations and gifts for children across New York State.
● Paramedic/Field Supervisor Kristopher Joseph, Central Oneida County Volunteer Ambulance Corps (COCVAC) – Honored for his lifelong dedication to service, having joined COCVAC as a Junior Member at just 16 years old. Over the years, he has worked his way through the ranks with humility and excellence, earning the respect of his peers and serving as a mentor to others. Kristopher embodies leadership, compassion, and a true commitment to lifelong learning and community care.
● EMT/Field Training Officer Robert Reska, Kunkel Ambulance – Robert has been a faithful employee of Kunkel Ambulance since 2010. Known for his compassionate care and unwavering dedication, Robert gives his all to every patient he encounters. He is widely respected for his kind heart, his ability to accept everyone without judgment, and his commitment to training the next generation of EMTs. As a Field Training Officer, Robert takes great pride in teaching new hires how to become proficient, confident street
providers. Always willing to sacrifice his own time to support his team, he routinely steps up to cover shifts or assist coworkers in need. Reliable, skilled, and selfless, Robert Reska truly exemplifies what it means to serve with heart.
● Airframe & Powerplant Mechanic Frank Haig, Mercy Flight Central – While not a first responder in the traditional sense, Frank Haig’s work is vital to every mission Mercy Flight Central flies. With over 15 years of aviation maintenance experience, Frank serves as a cornerstone of the maintenance department. His quiet professionalism, exceptional craftsmanship, and unwavering commitment ensure that each aircraft is flight-ready, safe, and reliable. His work behind the scenes supports life-saving missions across the region, making him an unsung hero whose dedication embodies the true spirit of service.
William T. Cole of Gates-Cole Insurance expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all first responders, noting the company’s close connection to the emergency services community. Gates-Cole proudly insures more than 100 local fire departments and ambulance agencies, as well as over 50 municipalities, making the safety and well-being of first responders a cause deeply rooted in the company’s mission. “We want to thank all first responders for their tireless dedication to keeping our communities and our neighbors safe,” said Cole. “Your commitment, courage, and service do not go unnoticed, and we are deeply
grateful for all that you do.”
Assemblywoman Buttenschon’s lifelong connection to emergency services, including her past role as Dean of Public Service and Emergency Preparedness at Mohawk Valley Community College, has made championing the needs of first responders a central part of her legislative work. “I’ve seen firsthand the sacrifices these men and women make,” Buttenschon added. “They deserve our support, our advocacy, and our endless gratitude, not just today, but every day.”
