The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
by Judy Swanson, The Quill
Tom and Elie Koopmans hosted their annual EMT Appreciation Dinner for the LaHarpe volunteers January 19th at the ambulance building.
They were assisted by Howard Thie with Gladys Worden and Halcyone Shutwell helping Elie with pies. The Koopmans furnished the rest of the food.
Currently there are 20 EMTs and 6 drivers with five new members presently taking training classes.
The EMTs are on call 24-hours a-day, seven-days-a-week for a 12 hour shift.
Dean Moore, who has served as president for 10 years, has done a wonderful job keeping this service going in the La Harpe community.
He is always looking for ideas that will improve service for the area.
Dean was the leader in getting the current building for the ambulances, and also, the key to getting a second ambulance as a backup in case of an emergency when one was out on call.
Dean also serves on the EMT Service Advisory Committee for Hancock County.
Carl Lee is the Vice President of the La Harpe ambulance service.
In addition to conducting classes for their people, they are providing first response courses for the firemen. They have provided training also to the Boy Scout Troop.
The ambulance crew is a vital link to our community, recognized in Springfield for their excellent work.
La Harpe has never been without ambulance service because of its dedicated people, willing to pay the price of long hours and continuing education to keep their certification. This not only involves the crew, but spouses and families as well. When they are on-call they stay close to home to be within easy reach if needed.
The needed support that keeps the ambulance in this area comes from fund drives and fundraisers and your donations. They also receive help from the county and the City of La Harpe.
Wednesday, February 28th is the community's chance to support this important community service and its volunteers who help maintain it, at their annual Ham & Bean Supper at the La Harpe Clubhouse. Mark your calendars now to attend and support the ambulance crew.
Tom Koopman, carves the turkey and wife Elie assisted by Howard Thi serves their Annual Appreciation meal to those families involved in maintaining the La Harpe Ambulance Service.