Firefighter of the Year: Steven Hayes

The nomination is in: Gilroy firefighter-paramedic Steven Hayes will be honored as the “firefighter of the year” at the 18th-annual Blue and Gold Awards Luncheon later this month.

“He has a passion for the job that is contagious and seems to raise the bar amongst his peers,” wrote Capt. Shaun Peyghambary in his recommendation, on behalf of himself and Chief Dale Foster.

The luncheon, organized through Gilroy’s Exchange Club, honors firefighters and police throughout the South Valley.

The recommendation cited Hayes’s efforts to continue his education, including attending this year’s Fire House World Conference in San Diego and studying for a degree in public administration.

Off duty, Hayes is known for his work to help organize the annual Extreme Youth skateboard and BMX event with friend and Gilroy police officer, Mark Tarasco, according to the recommendation. The event will be May 21.

“Steven and Mark deeply care for Gilroy's youth and put on this amazing event, which is developed to support and showcase local BMX and skateboarding talent,” wrote the captain. “Steven has a heart to mentor our youth and encourage them to make good decisions. He represents the Gilroy Fire Department and the city of Gilroy very well with this endeavor.”

Hayes was appreciative but humble about the commendation.

“More than anything, it encourages people who want to go above and beyond to step up,” he said.

The Gilroy Police Department will also recommend a person to be honored at the ceremony. The Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office, California Highway Patrol and Morgan Hill fire and police will also be in attendance.

The luncheon will be on May 18 at the I.F.D.E.S. (Portuguese) Hall on the corner of Old Gilroy and Forest streets. The event will be from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and lunch is $15.

Call Eleanor Villarreal at 408-847-1605 for reservations.