Local Southport summer resident Dr. Paul Schacknow is passionate about helping make our community safer from cardiac emergencies. He participates with a number of cardiac specialists, other M.D.s, and emergency personnel in the AED – PulsePoint Respond Project Team. One of their goals is to distribute AEDs (automated external defibrillators) widely throughout Maine communities. Dr. Schacknow recognized that, as a public venue attracting sometimes large audiences, Harbor Theater would be a prime location to place a defibrillator ready for emergencies.

Dr. Schacknow donated the funds through the Schacknow Family Foundation for Harbor Theater to purchase an AED. EMS Chief Dan Gardner facilitated its purchase, and BREMS CPR/AED instructor Jim Schermerhorn provided the necessary training for Harbor Theater’s staff members to certify them in its use. Of Schacknow Dan Gardner says, “Paul is an amazing person. He has such a big heart! His gift to Harbor Theater is only one of many made to organizations in our region, helping to provide quick, safe response to cardiac emergencies.”

AEDs are portable electronic device that automatically diagnoses the life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, and is able to treat them through defibrillation, the application of electricity which stops the arrhythmia, allowing the heart to re-establish an effective rhythm. With simple audio and visual commands, AEDs are designed to be simple to use for the layperson, and the use of AEDs is taught in many first aid, certified first responder, and basic life support (BLS) level cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) classes. Harbor Theater’s community-minded staff members have now participated in such classes at the Boothbay Region Ambulance Service so that they are well-trained in the use of the theater’s new AED.

Having an AED ready to deploy in an emergency, should one arise at the theater, enhances Harbor Theater’s already friendly, welcoming, and safe environment. We are so grateful to Dr. Schacknow for recognizing the opportunity and providing the funds to make us an even safer place to gather. Thank you, Paul and family!

That is just one more thing that makes Harbor Theater “The Best Little Movie House in Maine!”