New Hope Aquatic Park Lifeguards Awarded Chief’s Commendation

Posted on 08/18/2023

Four New Hope Aquatic Park staff members were recognized for their swift action to save lives.

On June 28, lifeguard Laura Wiseman noticed a young swimmer beginning to struggle. While pulling the child to safety, she saw another child at the pool's bottom. Wiseman jumped into action to rescue the child and began performing lifesaving measures.

Lifeguards Jack Neff and Justin Rowles quickly aided Wiseman's efforts by retrieving first aid equipment and providing rescue breaths, respectively. Assistant manager Cassie Baker alerted emergency medical services, organized employees, and secured the area.

The four were recognized at the Aug. 14 New Hope City Council meeting, where New Hope Police Chief Tim Hoyt awarded them the Chief's Commendation. "We have four pool employees who acted swiftly, and I think bravely, to save lives," Hoyt further emphasized the importance of the lifeguards' role to the community.

Council Member John Elder also praised the four, "Everyone wants to think they would react the way that you four did, but the fact of the matter is that you did. And you made a gigantic difference in two children's and two families' lives. It was brave, it was heroic, and we thank you for your efforts."