Volunteer firefighters, first responders and EMTs are so important to the safety of our communities, especially in outstate Minnesota. These men and women work hard and put themselves at risk for all of us.

That’s why I want to express my appreciation to state Rep. Shannon Savick for authoring a bill to provide a $500 stipend to our brave volunteers. The program is being piloted in nearly a dozen counties in outstate Minnesota including Freeborn and Faribault counties. She has promised to work to expand this program next year if she is re-elected.

Thank you, Rep. Savick.

Brian Haroldson

Kiester Fire Department

Kiester