Tuesday, December 15, 2009

HealthyChildren.org has officially launched

Whether you have a question about a specific condition or are looking for general guidance, you know you can trust the AAP. Their new parent focused website, HealthyChildren.org is the only site backed by 60,000 American Academy of Pediatrics member pediatricians.

IMPACT OF BREASTFEEDING ON HEART DISEASE, DIABETES IN WOMEN

A new study by Kaiser Permanente has found that breastfeeding a child may lower a woman’s risk of developing Metabolic Syndrome by up to 86 percent. This condition is linked to heart disease and diabetes in women. The 20-year prospective study was published online on December 3rd and will appear in the February edition of Diabetes, a journal of the American Diabetes Association. Researchers measured all components of Metabolic Syndrome before pregnancy and after weaning in an ethnically diverse group of women of childbearing age. They found the protective association of breastfeeding was even stronger for women who had gestational diabetes during pregnancy. Metabolic Syndrome affects of to 37 percent of US women between ages 20-59, and is a clustering of risk factors related to obesity and metabolism that may predict future diabetes and heart disease during midlife and early death for women. To access the study online, go to http://dx.doi.org/10.2337/db09-1197

Holiday Tips

As the month of December begins, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) offers tips to ensure that children have a safe holiday season. Topics include guidelines for safe use of lights, decorations and trees, including how to check the freshness of a live Christmas tree. Toy safety tips address the importance of age-appropriate gifts and the need to avoid items with small parts for children under age three. For example, swallowing button batteries and magnets can cause serious stomach and intestinal problems, including death. Access the AAP 2009 Holiday Safety Tips at http://aap.org/advocacy/releases/novtips.cfm.

Monday, November 16, 2009

Audio conference "SIDS"

The Virginia Infant & Toddler Specialist Network is excited to present the second in a series of audio conferences for providers of infant and toddler care. SIDS is the leading cause of death in children between one month and one year of age. Health care providers don’t know exactly what causes SIDS, but they do know certain things can help reduce the risk of SIDS.
Coordinated by Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
Wednesday, December 9, 2009 1:00 to 2:00 pm
Presented by:
Deborah Alston, Infant and Toddler Specialist, Peninsula Region
Patricia Marickovich, Infant and Toddler Specialist, Piedmont Region
Featured Speaker:
Pamela Parham, RN, BSN, Peninsula Child Care Health Consultant
Registration deadline is December 2, 2009.
Deborah Alston, dalston@va-itsnetwork.org
(757) 229-7940 ext. 201

CINCH "Pinch of Prevention Modules"

CINCH has developed a quick and easy way to get health and safety messages out to families. A Pinch of prevention is a series of modules that each include:
  • a 5-10 minute power point presentation with a script
  • newsletter article
  • list of resources
  • handouts and flyers

A Pinch of Prevention is especially designed for program directors, school and community leaders, and others to present during parent meetings. Topics include: Emergency Preparedness for Special Needs, Asthma, Booster Seat, FAMIS, Family Fitness and Influenza.

Please go to this link for more information and for registration.
http://www.pinchofprevention.com

Friday, October 23, 2009

2009 COMMUNITY RESOURCE FAIR

Monday, November 9, 2009,6:30 p.m.—9:00 p.m.
Landstown High School, 2001 Concert Drive
Virginia Beach, Virginia
(off Princess Anne Road by the Amphitheater)
Receive information from 70+ vendors on: Children/Adult Disability Services, Recreational Programs, Vocational Information, Respite Services, Support/Advocacy Groups, Transition Services, Housing Information, Legal Services, Durable Medical Equipment Providers, Assistive Technology, and much more……….Sponsored by the Office of Programs for Exceptional Children and the Virginia Beach Special Education Advisory Committee.
To learn more about the Resource Fair or Virginia Beach SEAC, contact any of the following:
Office of Programs for Exceptional Children 263-2400
Parent Support & Information Center 263-2066
Sandy Hermann, SEAC Chairperson 368-5327
JoAnna Bryant, SEAC 285-2725

Friday, October 16, 2009

CINCH Annual Meeting

CINCH 3rd Annual Meeting will be held on Friday, November 13, 2009 from 9:00 - 12:30 at the Anthem Building, 277 Bendix Road in Virginia Beach. Some agenda items will be:
  • How CINCH works
  • Engaging the community
  • Your unique contributions
  • Blue Prints for Action
  • The Reality of Working with Funders

To register for this event please go to: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=jFQr9dvQlgxGVd3C8p7sSQ_3d_3d


CINCH is excited to announce that we are teaming up with the Eastern Shore Child Health Coalition (ESCHC) and the Virginia Department of Health CHAMPION'S program to offer BodyWorks, a nutrition and physical activity course for parents and caregivers of young adolescents. CINCH and ESCHC partners are volunteering to offer this free 10-week course in just about every city, county and town throughout Hampton Roads. The course is loaded with excellent materials, prizes and ideas for the whole family. BodyWorks focuses on parents as role models and provides them with needed tools and support to create and maintain healthy lifestyles in the face of hectic schedules, shrinking budgets and a fast-food culture. The course provides help to plan, shop and prepare meals saving both time and money. We are always looking for more volunteers! If you think you might be interested in volunteering and learning how to teach a course of your own, we are holding a train-the-trainer session on **Tuesday, December 1st at EV Williams Hall (855 W Brambleton Ave, Norfolk, VA). Please contact Adrienne Rust-Chester at 757-668-6430 or rustchae@evms.edu for details. (**New Date)

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Jazz it up for the Kids!

YMCA and Kids priority One are having a fundraising event on Friday, October 23 from 6:30 - 9:30 pm at Virginia Sports Hall of Fame in Portsmouth. Tickets $35.00 advance $40.00 door. For more information go to http://www.kidspriorityone.org/file/jazzitupflyer.pdf

New Data Available in the KIDS COUNT Data Center

The KIDS COUNT Data Center has been updated with new data from the U.S. Census Bureau, including indicators of child well-being from the American Community Survey and the Current Population Survey. Topics include children under five in poverty and children in single-parent families. See Data Across States for the latest information.

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Annual TUCP Training Meeting

The Annual TUCP Training Meeting is being held on November 5, 2009 at the Marriott Richmond West Hotel. The theme for this year's meeting is Working Together to Create Healthy Communities. Within that theme, the meeting objective is to encourage integration of tobacco use control as a cross-cutting risk factor for the management and prevention of chronic and communicable diseases.
The registration is $15.00 and it includes six CHES credits, educational material, and lunch. Hotel has free parking, located off I-64 in the Innsbrook business area, and handicapped accessible. To register for this event go to:
http://www.vahealth.org/forms/healthy_commmunities_annualmeeting.htm

If additional information is needed, please contact by email BA.Caro-Justin@vdh.virginia.gov or by phone, 804-864-7876.

Smoke Free Restaurants in Virginia Q & A

The questions below were answered by Gary Hagy, Virginia Dept. of Health. For additional information contact Gary Hagy – gary.hagy@vdh.virginia.gov

1. If you go into a restaurant and there is smoking, what can you do? First, restaurants can create smoking rooms that are physically separated and properly vented. However, if you observe someone smoking in a non-smoking area you should first discuss with the issue with the manager. If he does not ask the patron to cease smoking, contact the local health department and report the incident. You can also report the incident to local law enforcement
2. Who issues the citations? What is the amount of the citation? Local law enforcement can issue citations. The maximum civil penalty is $25
3. How often can they receive citations? For each day they are in violation
4. What happens if they continually refuse to be smoke free? The law only authorizes a maximum $25 civil penalty. The permit to operate a restaurant is linked to compliance with the new smoking law.

Friday, October 9, 2009

Unnatural Causes

FYI – Unnatural Causes episodes are airing on WHRO next week. You may access more information on the website: http://whro.org/home/publictv/sched.htm

Sunday, October 11, 2009 11:00 PM
Monday, October 12, 2009 3:30 AM
Unnatural Causes: Is Inequality Making Us Sick? In Sickness and In Wealth

Sunday, October 18, 2009 11:00 PM
Monday, October 19, 2009 3:30 AM
Unnatural Causes: Is Inequality Making Us Sick? When The Bough Breaks/Becoming American

Sunday, October 25, 2009 11:00 PM
Monday, October 26, 2009 4:00 AM
Unnatural Causes: Is Inequality Making Us Sick? Bad Sugar/Place Matters

Sunday, November 01, 2009 11:00 PM
Monday, November 02, 2009 3:30 AM
Unnatural Causes: Is Inequality Making Us Sick? Collateral Damage/Not Just A Paycheck

Needle Tips and Vaccinate Adults!

The Immunization Action Coalition (IAC) has recently released its fall issue of Needle Tips, with news and information for all health professionals who give vaccines. Also available is Vaccinate Adults, a condensed version of Needle Tips for those who work only with adult patients. Both publications contain H1N1 vaccine information, ready-to-print educational materials for healthcare professionals and their patients, updated immunization schedules, vaccine news, and IAC’s popular “Ask the Experts” question-and-answer column with questions answered by CDC experts.
This is the first year in IAC’s 15 year publishing history that its periodicals have been available online only, but their content remains as fresh and reliable as ever. You can find Needle Tips at www.immunize.org/nt and Vaccinate Adults at www.immunize.org/va.
Visit IAC’s Subscribe page (www.immunize.org/subscribe) to sign up for early notifications of future issues of these publications or to receive IAC Express, IAC’s free weekly e-mail newsletter, which complements IAC’s semiannual publications. Also, please forward this message to colleagues who may benefit from these valuable immunization publications.

The Science and Value Behind Targeted Home Environmental Interventions Webinar

Presenting the scientific basis on multi-trigger, multi-component interventions for an upcoming series of webinars on successful home-based environmental intervention programs.
Please join us for an interactive discussion that will focus on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Community Guide evidence-based recommendations regarding asthma control and in-home environmental intervention programs.
EVENT DETAILSDate: October 22, 2009Time: 1:00-2:30pm Eastern Time Presenter: Gema Dumitru, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Stay tuned for registration details - coming next week!

Thursday, October 8, 2009

FLU ESSENTIALS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

FLU ESSENTIALS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
This is a collection of attractive 1-page information sheets
that cover various groups of people (e.g., asthmatics,
diabetics, pregnant women) for whom influenza vaccine is
recommended. The collection also includes information for
the general public.

To access the information sheets in this collection, go to:
http://www.flu.gov/know.html

To access "Emergency Warning Signs," go to:
http://www.flu.gov/pdfs/emergencywarningsigns.pdf

Monday, October 5, 2009

Stopping Medicine Abuse Before It Starts

Thursday, October 15
6 p.m. ~ Reception, Networking
6:30 - 8:30 p.m. ~ Speakers and Q&A
Bon Air Baptist Church, 2531 Buford Road
Richmond, VA
Prescription medication overdosages, about 60% of them unintentional, take the lives of hundreds of Virginians of all ages every year. And the numbers are growing at an astounding rate. Intiatives to successfully address this problem must include partners from a variety of interest areas: families, law enforcement, mental health, pediatric health, substance abuse, poison control, injury prevention and many others. Here is an event that will provide some initial information on the problem, and an opportunity for concerned individuals to find out about prevention initiatives. Please share the attached info with others who may be interested.

Virginia Poison Center’s 2008 Annual Report

As a FYI, the Virginia Poison Center’s 2008 Annual Report is now available. According to the report, in 2008, they responded to 38,267 calls for assistance; an increase of 1.8% over 2007. Three quarters of all patients were managed on site without need for further medical intervention. The majority of patients treated were children under 6 years of age. Incoming calls to the Virginia Poison Center increase each year. Despite this, and with no increase in funding, the Center continues to provide its life saving services twenty four hours daily to all callers free of charge. The complete 2008 Annual Report will be available for viewing or download from their Website at www.vapoison.org in a few days. Hard copies are available. Contact Evelyn Waring by phone at 804.628.3468 or email ewaring@mcvh-vcu.edu to request a copy.

Mental Health Conference

“Family Secrets”

October 31, 2009
The Founders Inn & Spa, 5641 Indian River Road
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23464
9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.

Morning plenary guest speaker, the Honorable Michael O. Royster M.D. Director of Office of Minority Health and Public Health Policy Luncheon speaker distinguished David A Rosin, M.D., Medical Director, Division of Mental Health Substance Abuse, Virginia Beach Health District
Sponsored byMinority Health Coalition of South Hampton Roads, Inc. & AstraZeneca
COST TO INCLUDE CONFERENCE MATERIALS & LUNCH
$25.00 IN ADVANCE AT THE DOOR$35.00

Contact: Gloria D. Smith
757/ 625-4248 ext.21

Access Partnership’s Annual Membership meeting!

Friday, November 20, 2009
8:30: Registration, Breakfast & Networking 9:00 - 11:00: Presentations & Panel Discussion
Old Dominion University, Virginia Beach Center for Higher Education
1881 University Drive

Topic: How Oral Health Affects Overall Health
Updates from Access Partnership & the Oral Health Improvement Coalition will also be provided.
Enjoy a light breakfast and networking prior to the presentations!
This free event is generously hosted by ODU College of Health Sciences.Space is limited so please RSVP early.
Call 853-8500 Ext. 124 to register or for additional information

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Tobacco Use Control Annual Training Meeting

The Tobacco Use Control Project is having its Annual Training Meeting on November 5, 2009. As many have experienced, we all are having budget restraints, and printing is one area that we can reduce our expenses. Therefore, we have eliminated the cost of a slick, brochure and mailing and sending this information to you by email. The registration fee has been kept low so that it can accomodate everyone's' budget and encourage our partners, coalition members and colleagues to plan on attending this Annual Training. We are hoping that if you are not able to attend, but know someone in your organization or advocate that can benefit by attending this meeting, please share the attached information. The presenters are all outstanding and will be sharing their strategies and programs that can be implemented towards "Working Together To Create Healthy Communities".
http://www.vahealth.org/cdpc/TUCP/

If you need additional information, please contact me either by email or by phone, 804-864-7876 (direct line). We look forward to seeing you on November 5th. Thank YOU! Bunny Caro-Justin

Friday, September 25, 2009

Health Care Reform or No, Virginia Can Cover More Kids

New Report Details How and Why Virginia Should Maximize Federal Funding for FAMIS

RICHMOND -- A new law passed by Congress earlier this year provides an immediate opportunity for the state to improve the successful Family Access to Medical Insurance Security (FAMIS) program and cover more of the 129,000 uninsured children in Virginia. But if the General Assembly and the Governor don’t take the required action, some of the funding could disappear in less than two years. A new report from The Commonwealth Institute details the changes in the law and how Virginia should leverage the maximum funding available to help protect the health of Virginia’s children......

Check out our new report:
Covering More Kids in Virginia

Full Service Community Schools

Full-service community schools can serve as hubs for low-income and distressed communities, providing vital services for families and supports for students. On September 9, 2009 House Majority Leader Representative Steny Hoyer (D-MD) and Senator Ben Nelson (D-NE) joined forces to re-introduce the Full-Service Community Schools Act of 2009, HR 3545. Community Schools urges you to share the press release with your local, state, and national policymakers, media contacts, networks, listservs and colleagues.

Healthy Communities Action Strategies Toolkit

Leadership for Healthy Communities Action Strategies Toolkit This Leadership for Healthy Communities Action Strategies Toolkit has collected current best approaches in providing for more physical activity, improving school food options, supporting local food networks, and other ways communities and schools can change to help reduce rising rates of childhood obesity and related health risks.

Step Up for Kids Week

Step Up for Kids Week (October 5-9)
It's the second annual Step Up for Kids Day, a time to remind officials that although they can't vote, the needs of babies, kids, and teens shouldn't be left out of policy conversations.

Speaking of young people and policy, watch for the Children's Budget from First Focus, coming September 30!

Friday, September 18, 2009

Health Care Reform or No, Virginia Can Cover More Kids

A new law passed by Congress earlier this year provides an immediate opportunity for the state to improve the successful Family Access to Medical Insurance Security (FAMIS) program and cover more of the 129,000 uninsured children in Virginia. But if the General Assembly and the Governor don’t take the required action, some of the funding could disappear in less than two years. To read more:
http://www.thecommonwealthinstitute.org

HEALTHCARE FOR ALL VIRGINIANS coalition!

Hello Everyone!
We are planning a Richmond press conference on Wednesday, September 30th to launch the HEALTHCARE FOR ALL VIRGINIANS coalition! The event will be held in the State Capital building, around lunchtime. We’ll let you know the specific room and time when details are finalized. In the meantime – please SAVE THE DATE & PLAN TO ATTEND –and bring colleagues and friends to fill the room!
Our Coalition has grown to 46 organizations, representing a wide spectrum of interests!! If you know of any groups that ought to be involved, please invite them to sign up. Please let me know if you have any questions. Thank you for your support and patience as we’ve been preparing for our roll-out!
Jill
Jill A. Hanken
Staff Attorney
Virginia Poverty Law Center
700 E. Franklin St. Suite 14T1
Richmond, VA 23219
804-782-9430 x 13
804-649-0974 (fax)
jill@vplc.org

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

New IOM Report Affirms Local Governments’ Role in Creating Healthy Environments

This week, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) released Local Government Actions to Prevent Childhood Obesity. The report identifies specific actions that local governments can take to improve healthy eating and increase physical activity in communities. For more information go to

http://www.iom.edu/CMS/3788/59845/72798.aspx

http://www.preventioninstitute.org/IOMreport.html#more

Raising the bar conference

Raising the Bar” An Early Care and Education Conference- Saturday October 17, 2009, 8:00am – 2:00pm at Granby High School in Norfolk; COST: $25 Early Bird Registration by Sept 30 ($35 Non-Member); $35 Regular Registration by October 9 ($45 Non-Member); $50 On-Site; Interested in being a Presenter, Exibitor, or Sponsor???? Contact us: (757) 399-1337.
We value your wisdom and experience and would love to afford you the opportunity to share your expertise with other area professionals in the field of early care and education. If you are interested in presenting at the upcoming conference, please complete the form and return it to us as soon as possible. Sessions are available from 9:45am-11:00am & 11:15am-12:30pm. The sessions will run for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes each. Each presenter will be paid a stipend for their time.

Thursday, September 3, 2009

Childhood Obesity

Friendship Influences Eating Behavior

Good company doesn't always mean healthy behavior -- at least that appears to be the case where friends and healthy eating are concerned. A study of childhood obesity in the United States found that children are far more likely to overeat in the company of friends than that of strangers. Lead author Sarah Salvy notes: "If we hope to change the growing obesity epidemic among children, friends and family need to be involved. If the environment in which children live doesn't change... any progress children may make in their eating behavior won't last."

Read the full article at:
http://www.buffalo.edu/news/10314

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Healthy Start Hampton Roads


The Junior League Norfolk-Virginia Beach, Inc. and its Community Partner Network is launching this program. This event will support JLNVB Healthy Kids initiative of developing healthy diets, bodies and minds of local children. The campaign is designed to create a concentrated and passionate following of parents, educators, and children and equip them with the resources and education to promote a lifestyle centered on health and wellness. Saturday, September 12, 2009, 1:00-3:00 pm at Nauticus located at 1 Waterside Drive in Norfolk.
Fun for families:
Cooking demonstration with Young Chef's Academy, Fitness demonstrations with Jim White & Richard Harris, Healthy lifestyles with the World's Strongest Man, and FREE giveaways to all that attend.

Monday, August 31, 2009

The new 2009 Community Connections Resource Guide is here and ready for pick up!

The booklets are packed 200 to a box. These boxes are quite heavy so for those of you that have requested a larger amount you may want to consider bringing a dolly with you.Please e-mail me or call our office at 226-8826 to schedule your pick-up. We are located at 122 Granby Street in Norfolk on the 5th floor of the Tradewinds Building.
ACT FAST…..as you know they are a hot commodity throughout all of Hampton Roads.
Together we can bridge important connections for families in our communities so that ALL children are ready to learn in Kindergarten!

Beth Parker
Special Projects Coordinator
Smart Beginnings of South Hampton Roads
112 Granby St. Suite 500
Norfolk, VA 23510
757-226-8826
757-2268829 fax
bparker@smartbeginningsshr.org

Monday, August 24, 2009

CINCH Announcement

We are pleased to announce that CINCH received a grant from the Virginia Department of Health/Office of WIC and Nutrition Services CHAMPION Program to conduct BodyWorks classes throughout Hampton Roads. BodyWorks is a program designed to help parents and caregivers of adolescents and pre-adolescents improve family eating and activity habits. Available in English and Spanish, the program focuses on parents as role models and provides them with hands-on tools to make small, specific behavior changes to prevent obesity and help maintain a healthy weight. The BodyWorks program uses a train-the-trainer model to distribute the Toolkit through community-based organizations, state health agencies, non-profit organizations, health clinics, hospitals and health care systems. The program includes one six-hour training module for trainers and ten 90-minute weekly sessions for parents and caregivers.
The CINCH grant proposes to train two trainers in each city/town/county/health districts across Hampton Roads, for a total of 30 trainers. Each trainer will teach two 10-session classes (one in the fall and one in the spring) of 15 parents each. Funding is for one year. Our 5-year sustainability plan calls for a viral marketing effort. After year one, we will ask each trainer to continue for four more years, recruit two more trainers to teach two classes of 15 parents. We will work to continue this pattern of commitment in years two through four. If each trainer makes a commitment to this level of involvement, we will reach nearly a quarter of a million individuals with BodyWorks, thus creating a critical mass of families and trainers who better understand and practice healthy eating and activity. We expect this will also make a difference in our communities at the policy level as parents begin to expect more from themselves, their communities, and institutions with nutrition and physical activity availability.

Two Additional Infant Deaths Prompt Re-announcement of Simplicity "Close-Sleeper/Bedside Sleeper" Bassinets

CPSC is once again urging all parents and caregivers to immediately stop using convertible "close-sleeper/bedside sleeper" bassinets manufactured by Simplicity Inc., of Reading, Pa. CPSC has learned of two additional infant deaths since the August 2008 safety alert and recall announcements. To date, CPSC is aware of four infants who have died in the close-sleeper bassinets.
We are very concerned that not enough families know about this critically important recall. We want consumers to stop using the bassinet and take it back to the place of purchase for a refund or store credit.
To see pictures of the Simplicity 3-in-1 and 4-in-1 convertible bassinets and for more information please visit our web site at www.cpsc.gov/CPSCPUB/PREREL/prhtml09/09319.html
Due to the life-threatening hazard these bassinets pose to infants, CPSC urges all consumers to share this safety warning with friends, family, day care centers, and consignment stores to ensure that no child is placed to sleep in a Simplicity convertible bassinet cove

Thursday, August 20, 2009

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR RSV PREVENTION

MedImmune has expanded access for eligible premature infants to receive medication administered to high-risk infants for the prevention of serious lower respiratory tract infections caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The MedImmune Assistance Program is designed to provide the medicine for free to qualifying patients who lack health insurance and whose family household income is within a certain range of the federal poverty level (FPL) guidelines. The company recently increased the eligibility for the program to 400 percent of the FPL (e.g. a household of four with an income up to $88,200, and without health care coverage or medical insurance could receive medication at no cost). This is an expansion of the program’s previous eligibility ceiling. The MedImmune Assistance Program is administered as part of the Synagis Reimbursement Hotline and can be reached by calling 1-877-778-9010. More information about additional help available for RSV prevention and treatment can be found by visiting https://www.panfoundation.org/. For more information about RSV, go to http://www.synagis.com/what-is-rsv.aspx.

~~~~~~~~

Wednesday, August 19, 2009

Health Equity Conference

The Virginia Public Health Association and the Health Equity Conference Planning Committee cordially invite you and your members to attend the upcoming two-day Health Equity Conference, Advancing Health Equity: From Theory to Practice on September 10-11, 2009 at the Glen Allen Cultural Arts Center in Richmond, Virginia.

The conference will serve as a forum to discuss practices and policies that strengthen community health and well-being. Root, social, political and economic causes of health inequities in Virginia will be addressed. The goal of the conference is to increase the knowledge and ability of attendees to advance health equity through policies and practices that promote healthy communities.


To register and for more detailed information:

http://www.virginiahealthequityconference.com

Friday, August 14, 2009

Leanworks- Leading employees to activity and nutrition.

Upcoming program: LEANWorks! identifies science-based interventions that work to prevent and control obesity and provides the tools that employers need to take action. The Web site provides a variety of resources to employers including:
An obesity cost-calculator where employers can input employee demographic data to estimate the total costs associated with obesity and determine annual obesity-related medical costs for their companies.
Information and resources to help employers plan, build, promote, and assess interventions to combat obesity.
Information on how employers can estimate return on investment, a measure of the cost of an intervention compared to the expected financial return of the intervention.
For more information go to:

http://www.myvbch.org/2009FallMeeting.php

Obesity by Race/Ethnicity 2006-2008

New Obesity Data Shows Blacks Have the Highest Rates of Obesity
Blacks had 51 percent higher prevalence of obesity, and Hispanics had 21 percent higher obesity prevalence compared with whites.
Greater prevalences of obesity for blacks and whites were found in the South and Midwest than in the West and Northeast. Hispanics in the Northeast had lower obesity prevalence than Hispanics in the Midwest, South or West.
For this study analysis, CDC analyzed the 2006−2008 BRFSS data.
For more, see Differences in Prevalence of Obesity Among Black, White, and Hispanic Adults — United States, 2006–2008.Also available in a PDF version (PDF-1.3Mb).

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Physical Activity

Parents' Endorsement of High-Intensity Team Sports Increases Children's Physical Activity
A study published in Health Psychology found that parents who are enthusiastic about strenuous team sports have children who are more active and spend less time in front of the TV or computer. However, when parents endorse moderate-intensity team sports and vigorous individual sports and household chores, only boys have increased activity levels. Lead author Cheryl Braselton Anderson says this disparity relates to parental attitudes toward the types of activities. "Parents encouraged sons to partake in team and individual sports, and vigorous-intensity home chores, more than they encouraged these activities for their daughters."
"Playing team sports, especially the more strenuous ones, really makes a difference in decreasing both boys' and girls' media use and making them more active," Anderson said. "It is a good idea for parents to adopt a positive attitude toward all types of vigorous physical activities for boys and girls and know that girls can and want to do them."
Read more at:http://www.apa.org/releases/parents-exercise.html

PBS National Rebroadcast in October

PBS will rebroadcast Unnatural Causes nationally on four Fridays at 10 PM beginning October 9, 2009. However, local PBS stations are free to run it when they wish.
You can contact Program or Viewer Services at your local PBS station and ask them if they will schedule the series at the PBS national feed or another time during October.
For a station directory, visit mediaengage.org For a press release you can forward to friends and colleagues publicizing the rebroadcast, go to http://www.unnaturalcauses.org/press_area.php

After hours Vaccination clinic -Portsmouth

Back to School After-hours Vaccination Clinics
Wednesday, August 12 4:30 - 6:30 pm
&
Thursday, August 20 4:30 - 6:30 pm
Portsmouth Health Department
1701 High Street
(Across from IC Norcom High School)
Please call 393-8585 ext. 8513
for more information.

Friday, July 31, 2009

ALERT! Torch Fuels Are Dangerous Poisons

Last month, a toddler drank citronella torch oil while out camping with his family. A few hours later, he died at a local hospital. Last year, an 84-year-old woman died after a family member poured torch fuel into a glass. She drank it, thinking it was apple juice. An 8-year-old girl has permanent lung damage after making the same mistake.
Whatever you call it - torch fuel, tiki oil, bug lamps - fuel oil can be fatal if swallowed. Some people who drank it but didn't die were sick for prolonged periods of time. These products often look like apple juice, which is why it is easy to make a mistake. The liquid is the same color, the bottles are of similar heights, and the caps look alike. And, when poured out of their bottles, it's impossible to tell the difference. If swallowed, torch fuel can easily slide down into the lungs instead of going into the stomach. This causes pneumonia and also prevents the lungs from absorbing oxygen. Even small amounts in the lungs can be life-threatening or fatal. If you suspect that someone has swallowed, handled, or breathed in a poison, call the Poison Center right away. The 24-hour number is 1-800-222-1222. The experts that answer your call will tell you exactly what to do.

Back to School Physicals and Immunizations

Back to School Physicals and Immunizations are being offered at Olde Towne Medical Center in August for uninsured children ONLY! Appointments are required. Call 259-3258 for dates and cost.

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Cribs for Kids/Safe Kids USA Partnership

Safe Kids USA is pleased to announce the beginning of a new partnership with Cribs for Kids® to collaborate in preventing unintentional childhood injury due to unsafe sleeping environments. Cribs for Kids® will offer their discounted sales rate for its cribs (Graco Pack n Plays) and Graco's child safety seats to all Safe Kids coalitions. Each participating coalition will receive a Safe Kids/Cribs for Kids® toolkit to implement a safe sleep program in their community. This kit will also include infant safety educational materials. More details about this exciting partnership will follow!

Asthma Walk 2009

American Lung Association’s Healthy Lungs & Air Walk on September 26 at Mount Trashmore in Virginia Beach for the Hampton Roads area.
There is also a Fight for Air Climb in Richmond on October 17th at the Richmond International Raceway.

Information/registration for both events is available at www.lungva.org.

Preventing Chronic Disease

The July issue of Preventing Chronic Disease (PCD) is now available! Please visit our site at www.cdc.gov/pcd, where you will find downloadable articles and information on PCD.

Thursday, June 25, 2009

Nutrition Information for children and teens

Substituting Water for Sugary Drinks Can Reduce Excess Calorie Consumption in Children and Teens
Almost 90 percent of U.S. children and adolescents consume sugar-sweetened beverages on any given day -- and according to a study published in the April 2009 Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, replacing these sugary drinks with water could eliminate an average of 235 calories per day, effectively reducing excess-calorie intake, which contributes to childhood obesity and related health problems.
Lead author Y. Claire Wang says, "The evidence is now clear that replacing these 'liquid calories' with calorie-free beverage alternatives both at home and in schools represents a key strategy to eliminate excess calories and prevent childhood obesity."
Read the full article at:http://www.mailmanschool.org/news/display.asp?id=732

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Asthma 101 facilatator training session

Become a certified Asthma 101 facilitator "The basics training". This is geared towards community members who provide education to parents, the public or provide training to programs working with children. For more information or to register contact cinch@evms.edu

CDC H1N1 Flu Website Situation Update

Interim CDC Guidance on Day and Residential Camps
Camps for children, young adults and families range from programs conducted for several hours in a day (not overnight) to programs that are residential and involve many weeks in group settings. At this time, CDC recommends the primary means to reduce spread of influenza in camps focus on early identification of ill campers and staff, staying home (or away from others) when ill, good cough and hand hygiene etiquette, and environmental controls that encourage use of these hygiene practices. Learn more >>

For more information, see the CDC H1N1 Flu website

Children w/ special health care needs

Hampton Roads special needs preparedness website. Please go to http://www.hrspecialneeds.org/ for more information.

The Virginia Department of Health, Division of Dental Health has been busy developing a program to help children with special health care needs access early oral health care and prevent dental disease. We have developed educational materials and oral health presentations for health care professionals, case managers, educators, and parents. Now we have our children with special needs information on the Division of Dental Health website: http://www.vahealth.org/dental

Playground Safety Inspector Certification Course

A Playground Safety Inspector Certification Course is being offered in Roanoke, VA September 9-11, 2009. This is the only national program devoted to playground safety inspector certifications. Please see information below and the attached registration form. Please direct any questions to the Virginia Recreation and Park Society by contacting them at 804-730-9447 or visiting www.vrps.com.

Friday, June 12, 2009

Child passenger safety course

Safe Kids Virginia will partner with Ft. Eustis to sponsor a cps technician refresher course on June 18, 2009. To participate, you must be a cps technician with a current certification. Space for the course is limited and registration is required. To register please email or call me at (804) 628-2077 or cmillerhobbs@mcvh-vcu.edu . This course has been approved by Safe Kids Worldwide and the cps certification department. We are grateful to have Sgt. Lee Bailey of the New Kent Sheriffs Office as our certified instructor for the course. Each participant will receive 6 CE's, which are required for their recertification process. The class will be held in the Fire Department on Ft. Eustis, located at 648 Washington Blvd, Newport News. Class will begin at 8am and end at 4:15pm. Lunch will be on your own and unfortunately we are unable to provide refreshments during the course, though vending machines are available. For those technicians who need to be checked off on their child safety seat installations, Sgt. Bailey will remain after class to do this with you.
Corri Miller-Hobbs, Coordinator

Tuesday, June 2, 2009

Virginia Department of Health, Health Equity Conference

Please save the date for the Health Equity Conference that will take place from September 10-11 in Richmond, Virginia. We encourage you to share this information with your constituents and colleagues.
The conference planning committee is also seeking funding for sponsorship. Please direct any questions about sponsorship to Cecilia Barbosa (cecilia.barbosa@vapha.org).
Website for more information http://www.virginiahealthequityconference.com/

CHKD "Run Walk for the kids"

It's time to start training for the third annual RunWalk for the Kids, Saturday, June 13, at CHKD! This family-centered event is sponsored by The King's Daughters to benefit CHKD and will feature an 8K run, 2 mile walk, 1 mile Fun Run and special children’s "marathon". The race starts and finishes at Children's Hospital in Norfolk. Visit www.runwalkforthekids.org for more information and to register online today!

Thursday, May 28, 2009

PIV Assistant – part-time

Project Immunize Virginia is looking for a dedicated, energetic individual to assist with administrative tasks and coalition projects. Must have a bachelor’s degree in social sciences and at least two years experience in health education. Highly proficient computer skills and strong communication skills needed. Please e-mail your resume to piv@evms.edu.

Community Pediatrics

The American Academy of Pediatrics has developed this two-part guide to program evaluation for pediatricians and others implementing community-based health initiatives. This could be a useful tool when working with students or community partners. To go to the program

http://www.aap.org/commpeds/htpcp/EvalResources.html

Tuesday, May 26, 2009

9th National Conference on Immunization and Health Coalitions.

The Chicago Area Immunization Campaign, a project of the Illinois Maternal and Child Health Coalition, will be hosting the 9th National Conference on Immunization and Health Coalitions on May 26 - 28, 2010. The conference is titled "Strengthening Our Connections" and is intended for members of health
coalitions and the public health community. If you are interested in
attending and/or would like more information about the conference once it is made available, please fill out the form at the following website www.ilmaternal.org/ncihc2010.htm.

Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Free Asthma 101 training

Asthma 101 was designed by the American Lung Association to provide basic information about asthma and its management.
Upon completion of the course, the learner should be able to:
· Identify the incidence of asthma
· Identify potential triggers
· Identify three effects of asthma on the lungs
· Identify three basic symptoms of acute asthma episodes
· Identify asthma emergency symptoms
· Differentiate between “rescue” and “controller” medications used in asthma management
· State the importance of peak flow monitoring and asthma action plans
· Understand asthma and special conditions
· Understand asthma and school issues (or issues in your special program)
Email CINCH@evms.edu to register.

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Positive Parenting is Key to Preventing Child Maltreatment

Heads UP! Webinar Wednesday, April 29, 2009 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM EDT
This webinar will provide information on the role of positive parenting in preventing child maltreatment. Speakers will present information on the Circle of Parents program implemented in Florida, results of an evaluation of the program, and information on fatherhood initiatives. Circle of Parents is a network of parent lead, self-help groups for parent and care givers to share ideas, celebrate success and address the challenges surrounding parenting. Circle of Parents strengthens families and prevents child abuse and neglect through mutual, self-help parent support groups Information on the Triple P-Positive Parenting Program will be provided, as well as experiences in implementing the pilot in several counties in South Carolina. The program uses a multi-level, parenting, and family support strategy that aims to prevent behavioral, emotional and developmental problems in children by enhancing the knowledge, skills and confidence of parents. To register, go to https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/387470810

Promote National Infant Immunization Week: April 25- May 2

Jennifer Lopez adds vocal support" Left Brain Right Brain (April 25, 2009) - "In an interview with 'Good Morning America' Jennifer Lopez stood up for vaccinations by talking about a new campaign and website. The website is very accomplished and features Ms Lopez talking about how to protect your baby from Whooping Cough... She's also raising awareness about pertussis, the potentially fatal disease better known as whooping cough... Immunization from the whooping cough vaccine wears off over time, usually between five and 10 years, so adults can spread the highly contagious disease to infants. Lopez said babies most often contract the disease from their parents, and it can go undetected. 'We'll be OK, but it could be fatal to the babies,' she said. The Sounds of Pertussis campaign educates adults about getting a Tdap booster shot, which protects against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis. Lopez joins other responsible parents and celebs Jennifer Garner and Amanda Peet in making sure everyone knows that these vaccines are safe and available."http://leftbrainrightbrain.co.uk/?p=2230

Friday, April 24, 2009

CHKD - Free Family Forum

Food Weight and Body Image -Helping children and teens feel confident and healthy (Parent Workshop) Are you concerned that your child has unrealistic expectations about her body and weight? Positive body image often takes a hit during the preteen years because of a child's appearance changes quickly and negative cultural messages are very strong. Being criticized or teased about appearance can be particularly hurtful at this age. Preteens and teens often compare their looks with others or with media images of the "right" way to look. Dr. Linda Mintle will discuss the negative messages and pressures young people experience very early that can lead to unhealthy eating and negative body image. Learn warning signs and positive strategies to help young people navigate unrealistic expectations about food, weight and body image. Wednesday, May 13, 7-9p.m. CHKD 6th floor classroom, 601 Children's Lane, Norfolk
Register: www.chkd.org/classes
or 668.7500 or 1.800. 395.2453

Thursday, April 23, 2009

Kids Priority One - Website

Connecting Children and Families with resources. They have a new page on their website "For Professionals". You can email your organization information and upcoming events which will be posted on their homepage. Its also a great resource for information on trainings, events and networking with other organizations. To check out the website go to http://www.kidspriorityone.org/professionals.php

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

VDH- Champion program is coming to our community!

The Virginia Department of Health’s CHAMPION Program is on the move! Plan to attend the Regional Reengagement Conference to learn more about CHAMPION and obesity prevention tools that you can use in your community! Information will also be provided on upcoming funding and training opportunities.
When: May 13th, 2009, 9:00am-3:30pm
Where: Hilton Norfolk Airport
1500 North Military Highway
Norfolk, VA 23502

Please visit http://www.vahealth.org/WIC/Champion/index.htm for more information and to register online!

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Asthma Educator Institute- Training

The American Lung Association has developed the Asthma Educator Institute, a preparatory course for those qualified to take the National Asthma Educator Certification Examination sponsored by the National Asthma Educator Certification Board (NAECB). The course includes hands-on skills demonstrations and practice as well as evaluation tests to measure increase in knowledge and skills. For registration: http://www.mrsnv.com/evt/home.jsp?id=2603
If you have any difficulty with online registration, please call 1-800-642-1184 x.213
May 15-16, 2009
Consortium for Infant & Child Health (CINCH)
Department of Pediatrics, Eastern Virginia Medical School
855 West Brambleton Avenue
Norfolk, Virginia 23510

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Resource Center

The National Sudden and Unexpected Infant/Child Death and Pregnancy Loss Resource Center has a new multi-media page. http://www.sidscenter.org/multimedia.html

They have selected and created materials on SIDS, SUID, safe sleep, and related topics that can be accessed directly online. The latest posting is Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS): Reducing the Risk -- Online Training for Nurses featuring Hanan Kallash, speaking at the Seattle Children's Hospital and Program Support Center.

Free Audioconference

Thurs., May 21, 2009: “Neighborhood-Based Approaches to Improving Child and Family Well-Being” 12:30 p.m. Eastern Time
This free, hour-long audioconference allow participants to listen by phone to lively discussions between Institute staff, national policy experts, and city officials on best practices and key opportunities for municipal leadership on behalf of children, youth, and families. One day prior to the event, each audioconference registrant will receive an e-mail or fax message that will provide a toll-free, dial-in number. To register http://www.nlc.org/IYEF/yefevents.aspx

Tuesday, April 7, 2009

National Public Health Week

Monday, April 6, 2009
Today marks the beginning of National Public Health Week 2009! As you may already know, this year’s theme is Building the Foundation for a Healthy America. Starting this week (April 6-12), join others around the nation in working to raise awareness of public health’s critical role in ensuring a healthy America.
Let’s face it - as a nation we’re not nearly as healthy as we should be. Compared to other developed nations, we’re lagging far behind.
But it doesn’t have to be this way. With your help, we can make America the healthiest nation in just one generation. For more information go to www.nphw.org

Week of the Young Child 2009

National Association for the Education of Young Children, Promoting excellence in early childhood education
Week of the Young Child is April 19-25, 2009! Tools and information for Week of the Young Child will help you plan exciting events to celebrate children and raise awareness of their needs. Check out these resources and start planning ways to bring your community together for children! For more information go to http://www.naeyc.org/about/woyc/

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

Weight Loss

Which Diet Is Best? Think Calories, Not Composition
When it comes to losing weight, what's best -- more protein? Less fat? Fewer carbohydrates? According to a new study, it doesn't matter -- calories do. Researchers from the Harvard School of Public Health and Pennington Biomedical Research Center of the Louisiana State University System compared four different diets over the course of two years and found that reducing calorie intake was the key. Participants in all four groups had similar decreases in weight and waist circumference.
Read the press release at:http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/news/press-releases/2009-releases/diets-weight-loss-carbohydrate-protein-fat.html

Tuesday, March 31, 2009

26th Annual Prevent Child Abuse Celebrity Night

Favorite local restaurants are staffed by local celebrity volunteers who serve up food and fun for a great cause! Proceeds go to Prevent Child Abuse of Hampton Roads which advocates for children's needs in our region. Join us - April 3rd - 6pm to 10 PM - Norfolk - Azalea Inn, Baker Crust in Ghent, Big Easy, 456 Fish - Portsmouth - Roger Brown/s Restaurant and Sports Bar - Chesapeake - Baker's Crust Greenbrier - Virginia Beach - Havana on Nimmo, Il Giardino Ristorante, The Route 58 Delicatessen - Suffolk - Pisces Restaurant For more information, call Teresa Villorente at 757 630 2066 or Betty Wade Coyle at 757 440 2749

Monday, March 30, 2009

CINCH - "We want to hear from you!"

We want to ensure that you all are a part of the evolution of CINCH; therefore, we are extending an opportunity for everyone to provide your feedback on revisions to the proposed mission and vision statements, as well as, the focus areas that were presented at the consortium
meeting on February 20th.
We have scheduled several input sessions in April via webinar and
in-person meetings. Just select which session best fits your schedule. Scheduled sessions are:
· Wed., Apr. 1st, 9:30 - 11:00 am - In-person meeting
(EV Williams Hall)
· Thur., Apr. 9th, 12:30 - 2:00 pm - Webinar**
· Tues., Apr. 14th, 12:30 - 2:00 pm - Webinar**
· Mon., Apr. 20th, 12:30 - 2:00 pm - In-person meeting
(EV Williams Hall)
**Can only accommodate up to 16 callers. **
Email mcmanala@evms.edu to RSVP

In Support of Children - ODU & Prevent Child Abuse Hampton Road Presents:

Dr. Robert Anda
"Childhood Matters: Connecting Adverse Childhood Experiences and Adult Health"
WHEN: Wednesday, April 15, 2009 from 7:15 – 9:15 PM
WHERE: Kaufman-Duckworth Hall 224, Old Dominion University Campus

It is often said that children are resilient, that they bounce back from adverse experiences unaffected. It is also commonly thought that difficult circumstances faced in childhood are left in the past when we become adults. Research findings from the Adverse Childhood Experiences Study (ACE) show that nothing could be further from the truth. In his presentation Dr. Robert Anda, one of the lead investigators in this research, will discuss how childhood experiences are have major impacts on poor quality of life, illness and even death in adults.
Presentation is free and open to the Public. For more information call Dr. Lucien Lombardo 757-683-3800 or e-mail llombard@odu.edu.

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Poison Prevention Week

National Poison Prevention Week 2009 is March 15-21
Each year, more than 100 children ages 14 and under die as a result of unintentional poisoning. Non-pharmaceutical products such as cosmetics, cleaning substances, plants, foreign bodies, toys, pesticides, art supplies, and alcohol are responsible for 56 percent of poisoning exposures for children under 5 years of age. Parents need to store these products up and away from children, preferably in a locked cabinet.
Learn more about how to keep your child safe from poisoning by visiting Safe Kids Poison

Thursday, March 12, 2009

10th Vaccine Update Conference

Conference Includes: Trends in Immunizations, Travel Immunizations, Vaccine Preventable disease, Communication skills, Basics of Vaccines, Adolescent Immunizations, Influenza, and Autism. Please go to www.immunizeva.org for more information.
April 3, 2009 from 8:00 am - 3:30 pm in Richmond, Virginia.
Old Dominion University,College of Health Sciences
DEAN’S SEMINAR SERIES

Dr. Karen Remley-State Health Commissioner, Virginia Department of Health
Friday, March 27, 2009 12-1 p.m.
Health Sciences Building, Room 2000

TOPIC: Infant Mortality – A Gap that Needs to Narrow

A light lunch will be provided. Please RSVP to csdavis@odu.edu by March 18th to reserve a space.

Upcoming Lecture/ Class

The Family Forum sponsored by CHKD and Kohl's Cares for Kids on inhalant use is Monday March 16, 7-9 p.m. at CHKD Health and Surgery Center at Oyster Point, 11783 Rock Landing Drive, Newport News. Registration for this class and the others is at 668-7500 or 1-800-395-2453 or on line at www.chkd.org/classes.

Another class is "Food, Weight and Body Image -- Helping Children and Teens Feel Confident and Healthy" with Dr. Linda Mintle. Professional Workshop is May 13, 9:30-11:30 at CHKD Health and Surgery Center at Oyster Point (address above). The parent workshop is Wednesday May 13, 7-9 p.m. ad CHKD 6th Floor classroom, 601 Children's Lane, Norfolk.

Minority Health Quiz

So You Think You Know Minority Health? is a new interactive game from Families USA's Minority Health Initiative. Based on the classic Jeopardy game, it is designed to test your knowledge of the health disparities facing people of color in America today. To play this game,

http://www.familiesusa.org/issues/minority-health/game-show/my_quiz_show.html

Upcoming Square One Trainings

Training Scholarships" are available for our PEI courses with thanks to the Virginian-Pilot newspaper! One person from each agency can apply for a FREE scholarship to attend each PEI course this semester.

Please take advantage of this opportunity...
Mar. 24- PEI 1141: Case Doc./Court Appearance (NO scholarships left)
Apr. 4- PEI 1021: Infant Care-0-12 mo. (4 scholarship slots left)
Apr. 20-PEI 1031: Infant Care-13-36 mo. (2 scholarship slots left)
May 11- PEI 1041: Infant Care- 36mo.-5 yr.) (1 scholarship slot left)

For more information go to www.sqone.org

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Kick Butts Day 2009

Are you interested in organizing a Kick Butts Day on March 25th. As you may know, this is a campaign created by the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids and helps to raise young adult's awareness about the dangers of smoking and second hand smoke.

If any of you have questions or if I can be of assistance please do let me know. If you all do decide to have some sort of event if you could let me know that would be fantastic.
Nicole Pugar, Nicole@vfhf.org

Kick Butts day resources - http://kickbuttsday.org/resources/downloads.php

"Green" Asthma Inhaler - discount price at Walmart

GlaxoSmithKline has teamed with Wal-Mart, the largest retailer in the world, to tap the market for "green" asthma inhalers. The inhalers contain albuterol, a drug that provides asthma and emphysema sufferers with immediate relief. They are powered by hydrofluoroalkane, or HFA, a more ecologically friendly propellant than chlorofluorocarbons. CFCs damage the Earth's protective ozone layer. At $9 per prescription, the 60-dose ReliOn Ventolin inhaler that GSK production workers in Zebulon fill and package for Wal-Mart is the least expensive. To read more: http://www.newsobserver.com/business/story/1375768.html

Inhalant Abuse Prevention Conference

Virginia Inhalant Abuse Prevention Coalition invites you to their 2nd Annual conference.
Date: March 16, 2009
Time: 8:00 am - 3:30 pm
Where: Williamsburg Woodlands Hotel & Suites, 105 Visitor Center Dr., Williamsburg, VA 23185
Registration: $65.00 by March 10th
For more information and to register online: http://www.htsac.org/

Monday, February 23, 2009

The Art of driving - Program for Teens and Parents

The Art of driving is an educational awareness program for teen drivers and their parents.
The mission of The ART of Driving® is two-fold: First, to increase awareness among teens and parents of the unique risks faced by young drivers and to impress upon them the need for improved training, increased supervised time behind-the-wheel, and increased parental involvement; Second, to advocate for improvements in driver education for our youth.
For more information about the program, visit the Web site http://www.theartofdriving.org/ or contact Robin Thompson directly at 703-968-0975 or robin@artofdriving.net.

Therapy Workshop for pediatrics

A workshop for Physical Therapists, Physical Therapy Assistants, Exercise Specialists, Occupational Therapists, etc and other healthcare professionals involved in water therapy programs. To Register go to: www.motivationsceu.com

Visually Enhanced Therapy: Identifying, Understanding and Managing Visual, Vestibular, Sensory Processing, Attention & Balance Problems. March 5 & 6 Register at www.achievementsseminar.com or by phone (410) 486-4882

Thursday, February 19, 2009

Pediatric Perspectives & Practices on Transitioning Adolescents with Special Needs to Adult Health Care

The HSC Foundation, in collaboration with The National Alliance to Advance Adolescent Health (formerly Incenter Strategies) is pleased to announce the availability of a new Fact Sheet on the provision of transition support services in pediatric practices. Click below to view or download the Fact Sheet:
Pediatric Perspectives and Practices on Transitioning Adolescents with Special Needs to Adult Health Care

Healthy Kid’s Day

YMCA Healthy Kids DayHealthy Kids Day, a national community outreach event hosted by YMCAs each spring, promotes healthy lifestyles for kids and families. Join us from 10 am - 2 pm as we celebrate how fitness can be fun and introduce kids to an array of YMCA programs that teach them healthy behaviors. Contact your local YMCA for more details.

Toddler Safety Class

Injury Prevention community health nursing students (ODU) and Healthy families partnership is offering a Toddler safety class. Each year many children are injured in their homes. This class will teach a practical, positive approach to home safety for parents of children ages 0-4. A fun, interactive safety curriculum will be offered that will cover Choking Prevention & family CPR; furniture tip over, poison prevention, fire safety and burn prevention. To register 727-1300 x0

Date: Thursday, February 26th
Time: 5:30 (dinner) 6:00 - 8:00 pm
Location: Healthy Families Partnership, 100 Old Hampton Lane
Fee: $50 non-Hampton resident

Friday, February 13, 2009

Workshops offered through the Institute of Medicine

Measures of Health Literacy, February 26, 2009 Washington, DC
The Roundtable on Health Literacy will host a workshop on February 26, 2009, to assess existing approaches for measuring health literacy, review health system-level approaches to assessing health literacy, and provide a vision for what can be done in population-based measurements of health literacy. The workshop is free and open to the public.
Register
More Information

Strengthening Benefit-Cost Methodology for the Evaluation of Early Childhood Interventions, March 4-5, 2009 Washington, DC
Federal and state agencies have demonstrated significant interest in expanding investments in early childhood education programs in order to improve the healthy development of children and youth, strengthen academic achievement, expand labor productivity in future generations, and increase U.S. global competitiveness. However, opinion differs as to how best to assess the effect of these programs. Hosted by the Board on Children, Youth and Families of the National Research Council and the Institute of Medicine, this workshop is designed to identify major challenges in benefit-cost analysis of early childhood interventions and opportunities to strengthen benefit-cost methodology.
Register
More Information

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

In honor of Black History Month

In honor of Black History Month, the Office of Minority Health & Public Health Policy, Division of Health Equity is hosting "Our World, Our Community: Building bridges for health". This program, sponsored by the Minority Student Caucus of the UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health Minority Health Project North Carolina Institute for Public Health, will be broadcast via videoconference on February 27, 2009 from 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. in the Madison Building, Mezzanine Conference Room. A VDH facilitated discussion, examining ideas presented in the lecture, will follow the program and take place from 3:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.
To join via polycom, contact Rich Watson by February 20th at richard.watson@vita.virginia.gov or call him at 804-864-7179. If you prefer to join us at the Madison Building, Mezzanine Conference Room site, please contact Susan Triggs at susan.triggs@vdh.virginia.gov or call her at 804-864-7429. here is the link to the UNC site http://www.minority.unc.edu/sph/minconf/2009/

Monday, February 2, 2009

Car Seat Safety Round-Up

Wanted: Old, Used, Borrowed, and Abused Child Safety Seats.

Safety seats that are old, used, borrowed or abused may harm your child in a crash. During the month of February 2009, drop off that old seat at any location below for a $5.oo Reward.
Wal-Mart Supercenters, DMV Customer Service Centers in Hampton Roads, AAA Offices in Hampton Roads

For more information: http://www.drivesafehr.org/posters/2009_ChildSafetySeatRoundUp.pdf

Wednesday, January 28, 2009

Inhalant Abuse Prevention Conference

Virginia Inhalant Abuse Prevention Coalition Invites you to the 2nd Annual Inhalant Abuse Prevention Conference.
Date: March 16, 2009
Time: 8:00 am - 3:30 pm
Place: Williamsburg Woodlands Hotel and Suites, 105 Visitor Center Dr. Williamsburg, Va
Early Registration: by February 13th is $55.00
Regular Registration: March 10th $65.00
Special Nightly Room Rates $75.00
For more information: www.htsac.org

Thursday, January 22, 2009

CINCH member, Dr. Linda Mintle's book wins award

Raising Healthy Kids won the Gold Mom's Choice Award in the category of Family and Parenting Books: Health, Nutrition, Fitness & Safety!

Raising Healthy Kids in an Unhealthy World teaches parents how to raise healthy kids in an over-scheduled, fast-food, video-game world by making simple choices, easy changes, and instilling good habits that will improve everyone's life today and forever.
For more information on her book go to: http://www.thomasnelson.com/consumer/Product_detail.asp?sku=1401604129

Virginia Action for Healthy Kids Learning Opportunity

Game On! The Ultimate Wellness Challenge Webinar
January 27, 2009, 2:00 pm-3:00 pm

Game On! The Ultimate Wellness Challenge is a free, web-based resource that motivates schools to put their wellness policy to work through a series of nutrition and physical activity challenges. Game On! The Ultimate Wellness Challenge prepares schools for success by providing step-by-step instructions to engage key groups like students, teachers, administrators, nutrition directors, parents, and community volunteers. We already know that healthy eating and physical activity contribute to improved academic performance, attendance, and behavior—as well as lifelong health and well-being. Game On! The Ultimate Wellness Challenge provides schools with a flexible framework, filled with free and low-cost resources, to make children’s health a part of every school day!


To register, e-mail Kristin Brittle, Virginia Action for Healthy Kids Liaison.
Questions? Call (888) 779-7022

CINCH Immunization workgroup Project

There was a highlight of a CINCH Immunization Work Group project, a poster that encourage school vaccines at age 4 check up, in the January/February 2009 edition of BackPage, the VVFC newsletter (Virginia Vacines for children).
Please click on the link to view it http://www.vdh.virginia.gov/Epidemiology/Immunization/VFC/documents/backpage/Backpage_Jan_Feb2009.pdf

Wednesday, January 21, 2009

8th Annual Hampton Roads Institute for Nonprofit Leadership Conference

Friday, February 6, 2009
Norfolk Waterside Marriott
NEW! This year we are offering attendees a chance to Speed Date with area foundation representatives. Take this opportunity to get your questions answered straight from funders!
Representatives include those from The Beazley Foundation, The Norfolk Foundation/The Virgina Beach Foundation, Obici Healthcare Foundation, Portsmouth General Hospital Foundation, Portsmouth Community Foundation and The United Way of South Hampton Roads.

Conference Fees:
$100.00- 2009 Nonprofit & Hampton Roads Corporate Volunteer Council Members
$125.00- Non-members

$150.00- On-site registration
Call (757) 624-2400 for Group and Student Rates

To register, click here or contact Vanessa Evans, Director of Training and Technology, at (757) 624-2400 or vevans@volunteerhr.org.

2009 Asthma Forum

Mark your calendars! The next Communities in Action for Asthma-Friendly Environments National Asthma Forum will be held June 4-5, 2009, in Washington, DC! Registration for this premier event will open later this month.
The National Asthma Forum is not just another conference.

For a year-round resource and mentoring network to support your asthma management program, visit and join the Communities in Action for Asthma-Friendly Environments Online Community Network at www.asthmacommunitynetwork.org.

Thursday, January 15, 2009

Directions to Hampton Health Department

Our Quarterly Meeting will be held on February 20th at the Hampton Health Department from 12:00-2:00 (lunch first 1/2 hour). The address is 3130 Victoria Boulevard Hampton, VA 23661. The phone number is 727-1172. Please see directions below:

From I64 and East (Norfolk/Virginia Beach/Chesapeake)
On I64 West take US60/VA143 exit-EXIT 267, County Street/Hampton University
Turn left onto Settlers Landing Road at end of exit ramp. Go 1.3 miles.
Turn Left onto KECOUGHTAN ROAD. Go 0.2 miles.
Turn Right onto Victoria Blvd/VA 143 (Darling Stadium is on the right corner)
Continue on Victoria. Go 1 mile, crossing LaSalle Avenue (Traffic light).
Turn left on Algonquin Street and right into parking lot behind building.

From I64 and West (Richmond, Gloucester, Newport News, Williamsburg)
On I64 East take the LaSalle Ave/VA167 S exit-Exit 265A
Continue straight on LaSalle Ave for 1 mile, crossing Pembroke Ave,
and Settlers Landing Road, and Shell Road.(All traffic lights)
Turn Right onto Victoria Blvd. Continue 0.5 miles.
Turn left on Algonquin Street and right into parking lot behind building.

From I 664/Monitor-Mericmac (Portsmouth or VB/Chspk alternate rte)
After crossing the Monitor-Merrimac Bridge/Tunnel continue on I-664 N.
Take the Powhatan Parkway exit- EXIT 2.
Turn right onto Powhatan Parkway Continue 0.7 miles, crossing Pembroke
Avenue and Shell Road.
Turn left onto Victoria Blvd. Continue 0.7 miles.
Turn right on Algonquin Street and right into parking lot behind building.

Hampton Health Department is a one story, red brick building on the corner of Victoria Boulevard and Algonquin Street. The meeting will be held in the Auditorium.

Wednesday, January 7, 2009

National Respiratory Training Center

The NRTC is offering its evidence-based and accredited distance-learning Asthma Assessment and Management Course in Virginia. The course usually costs $595, but for the first 20 that register and pay, we are providing scholarships, so the cost to the first 20 will be $100.
The course is a 12 week distance-learning program with two mid-course days. Continuing education credits are provided for Nurse Practitioners (AANP) Physician Assistants (AAPA), Respiratory Therapists (AARC) and Nurses (CA BRN - applicable nationally). The course covers (1) Asthma facts (2) What is Asthma and who gets it (3) Physiology of the respiratory tract (4) The mechanisms of Asthma (5) Initial assessment and diagnosis of Asthma and classification of severity (6) Controlling the things that make Asthma worse (7) Asthma medications and devices (8) Managing Asthma over time (9) Management of special populations and special situations (10) Patient education to promote self-management and (11) Spirometry. The course begins March 13, 2009 and ends June 5, 2009.
If you would like more information, click on this link http://www.nrtc-usa.org/upcomingtrainingprograms.htm or call 757 668-6455 and speak to Cynthia Collins-Odoms, NRTC Education Coordinator.

Community Outreach Programs Found to Be Cost-Effective by CDC

Are community campaigns to increase exercise worth the money? A new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study says yes. The study found a decrease in participants' new cases of chronic conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and colon and breast cancers, and found that participants experienced an improved quality of life. The rigorous economic study found that, indeed, community outreach campaigns such as mass communication efforts, social support networks, enhanced access to walking trails, and other similar services can be quite cost-effective.
Read the full article at:http://www.cdc.gov/media/pressrel/2008/r081114.htm

Monday, January 5, 2009

ALA of Virginia,"Smokefree VA campaign"

Please plan to join the American Lung Association of Virginia and our partners in the smokefree Virginia campaign, Virginians for a Healthy Future, on these two important dates:
January 14, 2009
The annual "Here's to Your Health" Legislative Reception will give you an opportunity to talk with state legislators in a social setting and tell them why Virginia needs to be smokefree!
Time: 5 p.m.
Location: Old City Hall, 1001 East Broad Street, Richmond
Legislative reception is RSVP for legislators only.

January 21, 2009
Lobby Day at the General Assembly will give you an opportunity to talk with your state legislators and/or their assistant about the need for smokefree public places and other issues important to lung health.
Time: 9:30 a.m. at the Library of Virginia.

Lobby Day is RSVP for all to ddebiasi@lungva.org

CDC’s inaugural conference on obesity prevention and control

Weight of the Nation will provide a forum to highlight progress in the prevention and control of obesity through policy and environmental strategies and is framed around four intervention settings: community, medical care, school, and workplace, and will also highlight legal and economic strategies to prevent and control obesity. A key feature of the conference is a move from didactic presentations to an emphasis on interactive discussion between plenary and concurrent session panelists, and the audience. The sessions will focus on strategies implemented in these settings that have lead to policy and environmental changes which may improve population-level health. Date: July 27-29
please check the www.WeightoftheNation.org for regular updates*

Exciting news!

The new American Lung Association VA website has gone live and it looks fabulous! The new site is extremely user friendly, and if you click on the “news” link you will see CINCH prominently displayed. Check it out at www.lungva.org.

Using Your New Inhaler with HFA Propellant is online

Using Your New Inhaler with HFA Propellant is online. Go to www.thoracic.org/sections/education/patient-education/patient-information-series/index.cfm, then click on the title (scroll down to find it in alpha order). The pdf item can be printed.
The one sheet item describes how to use an MDI (with and without a spacer/chamber), how to prime it, how to clean it, what an HFA inhaler is, and how the new propellant improves medication delivery in the lungs.