OQUOSSOC – NorthStar Emergency Medical Services rescue personnel discussed their mission, capabilities and personnel when the Rangeley Region Guides’ and Sportsmen’s Association met at the clubhouse in February.

NorthStar’s history can be traced back to the time when five ambulance services served the area, including one in Rangeley whose history goes back to Harlan Doak in 1969.

NorthStar covers a territory of 2,800 square miles from Livermore to Coburn Gore to the New Hampshire border, an area one and a half times the size of Rhode Island.

The company has 12 ambulances and more than 100 EMTs, including 40 certified wilderness EMTs. NorthStar ha the greatest percentage of trained wilderness EMTs of any emergency staff in the state.

Several shared positive experiences with NorthStar. One person said halfway up Tumbledown Mountain, an elderly hiker tripped and injured his knee. Within 45 minutes of a cell phone call, rescue personnel were on the scene, much to the relief of two hiking companions.

The 2005 Rangeley Christmas bird count was discussed by Jennifer Perry and Marcia Baker, and members were encouraged to volunteer for next year’s count.

The raffle of a shotgun will begin at the next meeting. Plans for the two sportsman’s shows at Wilton and Augusta were detailed.

The next meeting of the club will be Thursday, March 16, at the clubhouse. The public is welcome.

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