Thanks to lots of help, Colton athletics has AED safety, home or road

Six new automated external defibrillators (AEDs) have been purchased for the athletic departments of both Colton High School and middle schools.

According to the Red Cross website, “an AED is a portable electronic device used to help those experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. It is a sophisticated, yet easy-to-use, medical device that can analyze the heart’s rhythm and, if necessary, deliver an electrical shock, or defibrillation, to help the heart re-establish an effective rhythm.”

The Volunteer Firefighters’ Association of Colton Rural Fire District #53 funded three AED units, while the Colton School District acquired three more. Additionally, the Colton Fire Department is providing the CPR/AED training course for Colton coaches.

“Thanks to the Volunteer Association of Colton Fire and our school district, Colton sports teams now have AEDs that travel with them to every sporting event,” said Chris West, Colton athletic director.

“It is forward-thinking of the athletic department to have AEDs on the bench at all times, not just at home. This is a great community partnership for the health and safety of the athletes,” Said Colton Fire Chief Todd Gary.

Growing Kindness

Colton icon Henry Schmidt passed away in his sleep on April 3, leaving behind a legacy of helping anyone in need, bringing smiles to every room he entered, and even playing Santa at
Christmas events.

He also had a lesser-known passion: Henry loved to garden. Each year he cultivated a large, beautiful vegetable garden on his property in Colton. Not only did he plant for his family and friends, but he also provided wonderful produce to the Colton Helping Hands Food Pantry.

Each week during the harvest season, Henry packed boxes with a variety of freshly grown produce, loaded his truck, and drove to the local food pantry to help his neighbors enjoy healthy meals.

This year, the pantry won’t benefit from Henry’s generosity. So, in honor of Henry, or simply to sow seeds of kindness, area gardeners are asked to plant an extra row and dedicate part of your garden to make sure your neighbors have healthy food on their tables.

When you are ready to share, produce donations can be dropped off on the back deck of Colton Helping Hands, 30138 S. Wall St., on Thursday mornings.

For more information, contact them through their Facebook page.