During the Marquette City Commission meeting on November 25, 2024, two local heroes were recognized for their life-saving actions during a medical emergency at Baraga Gym. On November 11, a pickleball player collapsed and became unresponsive while playing. Pam Waters, a retired nurse, was alerted by fellow players and immediately rushed to assist. Demonstrating her extensive training, she quickly assessed the situation and began performing CPR.

Michael Watts joined her efforts, providing breaths while Waters administered chest compressions. Their prompt and coordinated response continued until first responders arrived and utilized an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) recently installed at the gym. Thanks to their swift actions, the victim survived the incident.

The City Commission highlighted the critical importance of community members being prepared to respond in emergencies, emphasizing that the outcome could have been drastically different without Waters and Watts' intervention. Their recognition serves as a reminder of the impact that quick thinking and preparedness can have in life-threatening situations.