Dear Editor,

I was honored and humbled to be invited to participate in an important and unique event in New Glarus recently when the first of what may become an annual Recognition of Life-Saving Ceremony. I want to acknowledge how fortunate you are to live in the New Glarus community where you have the assurance of response by highly trained, caring, dedicated, professionals should an emergency arise which requires immediate medical intervention.

I presented twelve citations to outstanding individuals from the New Glarus Area EMS, dispatch, New Glarus Fire Department, and your local law enforcement agencies who were a part of life-saving teams credited for saving the lives of three individuals who are still alive today to gather with their loved ones this past holiday season.

The first ever Recognition of Life-Saving Ceremony was held at New Glarus High School, where Senator Jon Erpenbach and I were proud to be given the opportunity to recognize these individuals with citations from the Wisconsin Legislature. To have multiple lives saved in such dramatic fashion only happens when teams of first responders are trained and willing to serve, many in a volunteer capacity. It is necessary for the community to support and recognize their personal sacrifices and thank them for their work. I sincerely hope that when this ceremony occurs again (and it surely will), the auditorium will be at capacity recognizing the very folks who stand ready to save your life or that of your loved ones.

Situations in Wisconsin are changing and not every community is able to continue to support these life-saving professionals. I can’t imagine making a 911 resulting in no one to come to my aid. I hope that day never comes. Please give thought to your support for these heroic individuals living among you every day.

State Representative Sondy Pope,

80th Assembly District