By Sarah Schrock
A little-known fact around town is that anyone can borrow an automated external defibrillator (AED) from Aero Methow Rescue Service for an event. For a party, ceremony, or reception, Aero Methow will loan out one of their AEDs for free. All you need to do is call or stop by in advance to fill out some paperwork and reserve the device. It could save a life.
Studies show that use of an AED within three to five minutes of collapse due to a cardiac emergency doubles survival rates. According to the American Heart Association, immediate CPR with the use of an AED is the only way to restart most cardiac arrests; in communities where there has been widespread distribution of and training with AEDs, survival rates have hit 40 percent.
An AED is an electronic device used to treat people in cardiac arrest due to ventricular fibrillation. The AED has two foam pads placed on the chest with sensors that read the electric pulse of the heart. Once placed on the chest, the device then decides if it needs to electrically shock the heart back into normal rhythm, a process called defibrillation. Alternating shocks with chest compressions (CPR) is the best way to save someone from sudden cardiac death.
With the average age in the Methow Valley increasing, it’s a good idea to have AEDs more visible and available. Aero Methow is helping that happen. All first responders are trained how to use them, but anyone off the street, in an emergency, can use one. The devices have auditory prompts that walk a layperson through how to use them, as well as diagrams showing step-by-step directions. To get trained in using an AED and refresh your CPR skills, check in with Aero Methow for their next community/workplace CPR-first aid courses.
Barry Stromberger celebrated his 70th birthday last weekend.
In other matters of the heart, Valentine’s Day is upon us. In the spirit of love and friendship a few Burgar Street residents were celebrated over the weekend. Barry Stromberger turned 70 and was honored at the Honsinger’s house on Lower Beaver Creek Saturday night. “I am not sure how this happened,” he remarked as he warmed up for his 70th at another party the night before by making sure the keg line wouldn’t freeze during a heartfelt farewell party for his neighbors on Burgar Street. Hannah McIntosh and Brian dePlace, along with their son Felix, will be leaving Twisp and moving to Seattle at the end of the month.
Both Brian and Hannah came to the valley for a sabbatical from high-level positions with the City of Seattle where they worked in transportation and urban planning. In just under two years Hannah, Brian and Felix have made great things happen for Twisp, leaving behind a legacy of energetic innovation and friendships.
As the economic development coordinator at TwispWorks, Hannah spearheaded the Local Investor Network which provides direct investment capital for local businesses to start and grow. The Methow Valley News recently showcased two local businesses that have expanded from this program — eqpd and Pinetooth Press.
Brian served as executive director of the Methow Valley Citizen’s Council. Under his leadership, MVCC’s voice and actions have been more visible and accessible as they streamlined access to the public comment process and focused on member education.
Felix, their spunky 6-year-old, made fast friends with classmates at Little Star Montessori School, tore up the slopes at the Loup like a natural-born skier and will be remembered for his “natural disaster” themed birthday party where volcanoes and earthquakes rocked Burgar Street. I personally know there’s at least one little kinder-friend who will miss Felix dearly (emoji crying face).
At the party, paper hearts for writing well-wishes of love were provided by hosts Brynne Edwards and Kelly Grayum. However, I am certain this triad would love a heartfelt hug from anyone during their final two weeks in the valley.
Good luck to Hannah, Brian and Felix. The valley will always be here to welcome you back!
