While the COVID-19 pandemic has brought many changes and forced the cancellation of events, members of New Glarus Area Emergency Medical Services (EMS) started coursework this winter to advance the level of care they provide in the community. Students from Rio, Fitchburg, Madison and New Glarus participated in last week's training. Class instructors include former New Glarus Area EMT and now paramedic, Ross Williams, and local instructor and paramedic, Ben Nevarez.

New Glarus Area EMS Chief Kristie Mueller reported that Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) Lisa Behnke and Stephanie Koch are in the process of training to become certified as advanced level EMTs in the State of Wisconsin. They're part of the training course New Glarus Area EMS is hosting for Madison College this semester.

The class runs until May and when complete the duo will join a series of Advanced level EMTs at New Glarus Area EMS, who provide around the clock 911 emergency medical care for the community and surrounding area.

Mueller added, "Through hard work and dedication, the members of the New Glarus Area EMS strive to better themselves while serving the community."