Steve Rummler got addicted to narcotics after multiple surgeries. He overdosed one night and died. That’s when his fiance fought for Steve’s Law. That’s how Narcan became available to First Responders and extended to family members of addicts. Northfield Hospital’s Dr. Jennifer Fisher, “theoretically if somebody could have given him that medication, it may have reversed the effects temporarily and he may not have died”. The law also protects anyone who calls 911 and requests help. If there’s a situation where people are getting high, “the saving of one’s life takes precedence and you will not be charged”. The
caveat is that you stay with the person. Dr. Fisher commented on administering the drug, “I always compare giving Narcan to CPR. It’s not the CPR that’s difficult, it’s not administering Narcan to people, it’s the decision to do it that’s difficult”. It’s recognizing when you need to do it. Fisher says naloxone is a very safe drug, there’s no worry about someone overdosing. Narcan is about $25 per dose. Locally, Sterling Drug has partnered with the Northfield Hospital and local agencies. They have 2 Narcan doses in a kit. If they can run it through an insurance company, they will to try and recoop some of the costs. If not, they ask for a donation. If someone can’t afford a donation, they will give them the kit. She said the point is to remove all barriers. She said talk to your physician if you’re concerned for a loved one. They will get the drug and show you how to administer it. Fisher added, “I don’t want people to think this is a cure, it is not a cure. All we do is reverse the overdose. We don’t cure the addiction”. The point is to give the person a second chance.
Work remains on hold for hotel
Work was halted at the Fairfield Inn & Suites on Hwy 3 in Northfield a few weeks ago. While digging to place geo piers for the underground parking, they ran into water. The developer made an agreement with the City to pump the water out and take it to Northfield’s Water Treatment plant. Community Development Director Chris Heineman believed they would be back at work last week, however, “the subcontractor that installs the geo piers had to go offsite to another project and they’ve not been able to get that subcontractor back on set”. Heineman says they still plan on a May 2018 opening. Heineman and Mayor Pownell were in studio this morning. Their interview is online at kymn.net.
“Best yet” – that’s the consensus of this years Fireworks Display
It was a pretty quiet holiday for the Northfield Police department. They responded to just 2 fireworks calls and a couple of noise complaints. The City of Northfield received kudos for their display. After taking it over from the Northfield Historical Society, staff increased the budget and moved it back to the fields between the Middle School and Bridgewater Elementary. Reports are that the 25 minute display was the city’s best yet!
Register for Night to Unite
Registration is open for Night to Unite. Northfield residents are encouraged to host a neighborhood gathering to get to know your neighbors, prevent crime and increase community safety. All registered parties will receive a free party kit with soccer balls, cones, beach balls and paper products courtesy of the Nfld Police Dept. Go to the City’s website ci.northfield.mn.us to register or stop by the Police department. Nite to Unite is Tuesday, August 1st. Full press release with more information Night to Unite – 2017 Press Release
