The Summit Volunteer First Aid Squad, new officers and board of trustees for 2011 were sworn in at its last general meeting. The ceremony was led by Mayor Jordan Glatt who praised the Squad for its dedication to the city of Summit. "Summit is very fortunate to have such a dedicated organization for Emergency Management Services," said Mayor Glatt. "The Squad is a tremendous value for the city." The Summit Volunteer First Aid Squad is an independent organization, and is funded entirely through private donations.

The following Squad members will serve as officers for 2011: Steve Mortenson, President; John Christmann, Vice President; Tom Dempsey, Treasurer; Henrietta Mahon, Recording Secretary; and Linda Wolf, Corresponding Secretary. Board Trustees also include Mark Koernig, Jane James, Doug Stephens, Mel Harari, Jane Mahoney, Carl Lohmann, Dennis Burd, and Squad Captain Kari Phair.

Mayor swears in new First Aid Squad Officers

From left: Jane Mahoney, Mel Harari, Linda Wolf, Tom Dempsey, Henrietta Mahon, Steve Mortenson, Jane James, Doug Stephens, John Christmann, and Mayor Jordon Glatt.

The Squad's Presidential Award, presented annually to the member who demonstrates outstanding service to the Squad and the community, was awarded by President, Steve Mortenson to Dave Schempp for his work securing grants. "Through Dave's hard work this year the Squad was able to obtain needed stretchers, coats, and training equipment using money obtained from outside sources," said Mortenson.

Mortensen also paid special tribute to the Squad's line officers. "These are the folks who actually get the real work of the squad done, from drawing up the monthly schedules, to keeping the equipment stocked and the rigs running, to keeping our training up to date, to tracking our call statistics, and so much more. Each of us on the Squad owes them a debt of gratitude for the additional work they put in."

The Squad line officers for 2011 are Kari Phair, Captain; Mel Harari, Day Lieutenant; Chris Raymond, Personnel Lieutenant; Kate Getzendanner, Training Lieutenant; Richard Raymond, Maintenance Lieutenant; and Jane Mahoney, Equipment Lieutenant.

The all volunteer First Aid Squad is always looking for new members to join its ranks. All needed training, uniforms and equipment is provided. For information, please call 908-277-9479, or visit their web site at www.summitems.org.