The local Heaps of Jeeps organization has announced their First Responder of the Year, just ahead of their 10th annual festival taking place this weekend in Vincennes. Paul Thompson of Knox County Central Dispatch is being honored for more than four decades of dedicated service. In addition to dispatching, Thompson has served the community as a firefighter, deputy coroner, and former EMT — and was recently praised for helping a caller in crisis during a 25-minute 911 call.
The Heaps of Jeeps Festival kicks off Friday evening at Highland Woods Park with a luau-themed Jeep Show & Shine, featuring live music, hula dancers, and a fire show. Saturday’s events include a Jeep Poker Run, scavenger hunt, parade, and a tribute to local first responders.
