American Red Cross Honors Summit Recreation Center Staff and Member

The two individuals were honored for their lifesaving work

TEMPLE, TX (September 18, 2026) – On September 8, Kelsie Aumua, former Summit Recreation Center staff member, and Paul Stewart, Summit Recreation Center member and former Temple Fire & Rescue firefighter, were honored by the American Red Cross.

In May of this year, a Summit Recreation Center patron experienced a medical emergency while working out. Aumua and Stewart recognized the emergency and performed CPR with the use of an AED until emergency services arrived on scene.

We are honored the Red Cross recognized these two individuals for their actions on May 11 and are extremely proud of both the Summit team and our member for taking action. Not only did staff remain calm and rely on prior training provided by our Aquatics Division, but our members also stepped in to assist another person in need. The actions by all involved truly show what a great community we have in Temple and at Summit Recreation Center.

Joshua Laudig, Summit Recreation & Wellness Center Manager

Recreation staff are trained in CPR and first aid, providing them with skills that save lives when incidents like this occur.

Aumua and Stewart both received the Certificate of Extraordinary Personal Action. The individuals were nominated by Claryce Free, Aquatics Program Manager.

Any time a life is saved, it is something to celebrate and recognize. I am thankful that our training prepared Summit staff for this emergency and other emergencies that may arise. I am honored that the Red Cross recognized their quick actions and heroism.

Claryce Free, Aquatics Program Manager

The individual who experienced the emergency was taken to a local hospital and has recovered.

For more information about Summit Recreation Center as well as Temple Parks & Recreation, visit templeparks.com.

Lauren Spears

Public Relations Specialist at City of Temple

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