National Public Health Week celebrated nationwide: Health departments, schools, communities hold events ======================================================================================================= * Donya Currie The 2013 celebration of National Public Health Week came to life across the nation via traditional activities such as health fairs but also via creative outreach such as “flash mobs” and video gaming. Many of the activities tied into the national theme of the event, “Public Health is ROI: Save Lives, Save Money,” which highlighted public health’s return on investment. At the University of Alaska, Anchorage, the Department of Health Sciences held a campus kickoff for National Public Health Week with a public health open house and an academic information session about the school’s new bachelor of science in health sciences degree and the minor in public health. ![Figure1](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F1.medium.gif) [Figure1](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F1) At the University of Alabama, the Eta Sigma Gamma Chapter presents a plaque to visiting scholar Lawrence Green. Also during the week, information and a petition for a tobacco-free university campus were circulated each day. Students, faculty and staff enjoyed the first 1.5-mile “No Matter the Weather Walk” held on campus, so named because in April in Anchorage, the weather can range from temperatures below zero to snow, sunshine, slush or clear paths. National Public Health Week events in Anchorage were integrated into a course curriculum called “Public Health and Society,” and students were linked with community partners to develop and implement public health activities. In selected Alaska public schools, students and community partners led an assembly, skits and drawing sessions and created a bulletin board and book displays on the topic of bullying. The Blood Bank of Alaska partnered with a graduate public health student and the University of Alaska Anchorage Greek Council to hold a blood drive and provide educational materials on the importance of blood donation. One graduate public health student engaged a local Boy Scout troop, American Heritage Girls troop and a church parish in emergency preparedness and the importance of an emergency preparedness plan. Another student created a website with virtual preparedness information, while another worked with pediatric health providers to encourage disaster preparedness among families, especially those who have children with special needs. ![Figure2](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F2.medium.gif) [Figure2](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F2) Students at the University of Maine School of Nursing in Orono, Maine, teach proper oral health care to local children. Other student-led activities included a workshop targeting Alaska Native youth on the topic of empowering a healthy community and another promoting physical activity for the family. As part of the “Providing a Safe Environment for Children at School” focus, a discussion and field trip with at-risk high school students helped better identify safe places and resources in the downtown area in order to improve personal safety. ![Figure3](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F3.medium.gif) [Figure3](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F3) Bethlehem, Pa., events included blood pressure screenings, car seat checks and a wellness fair. Photo courtesy Jonathan Perez Undergraduate students in the University of Alaska Anchorage’s Department of Health Sciences gave a presentation on sleep deprivation and conducted spontaneous, five-minute activity breaks in the student union. The annual Arctic Health Science Seminar on health issues in the circumpolar region featured attendees from the University of Alaska Anchorage and extended campuses, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Arctic Investigations Program and the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services. Also, Anchorage Mayor Dan Sullivan signed a National Public Health Week proclamation. At the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Ala., faculty with the College of Human Environmental Health Sciences in the Department of Health Science and other members of the campus community celebrated National Public Health Week with a scientific presentation and a weeklong social media campaign. ![Figure4](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F4.medium.gif) [Figure4](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F4) At the University of Alaska, Anchorage, participants enjoy a “No Matter the Weather Walk.” The National Public Health Week Scholar Presentation, given by a visiting professor of epidemiology and biostatistics from the University of California, San Francisco, was titled “Public Health: If We Want More Evidence-Based Practice, We Need More Practice-Based Evidence.” The National Public Health Week scholar, APHA member Lawrence Green, DrPH, MPH, also met with groups of students and faculty members to talk about issues related to health education and promotion. The Department of Health Science’s Delta Xi Chapter of Eta Sigma Gamma held a weeklong social media campaign to promote National Public Health Week. National Public Health Week events at the University of Arizona Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health in Tucson, Ariz., included a symposium on social justice designed to encourage activism to spur change on social justice and public health. ![Figure5](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F5.medium.gif) [Figure5](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F5) The Arkansas Public Health Association kicks off events with a 100th anniversary celebration at a museum in Little Rock. The goal of the yearly symposium is to expand awareness and the ability of participants to critically analyze how social injustice affects health outcomes worldwide. ![Figure6](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F6.medium.gif) [Figure6](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F6) At the University of Arizona, a symposium on social justice was designed to encourage activism and spur change. The Arkansas Public Health Association in Little Rock, Ark., kicked off National Public Health Week on April 1 with a news conference at the Old State House Museum as the Arkansas Department of Health that marked 100 years of service to the state. Those on hand for the 100th anniversary celebration included Gov. Mike Beebe and Arkansas Surgeon General Joe Thompson, MD, MPH. Other events in Arkansas during National Public Health Week included an anniversary celebration at the Madison County Health Unit on April 1, an open house at the Crittenden County Health Unit, during which the county judge signed a 100 Years of Public Health proclamation, and an April 4 open house at the Pulaski County Health Unit. That day, the Arkansas Department of Public Health Grand Rounds focused on “Healthy People 2020: Arkansas’ Chronic Disease Framework for Action.” On Friday of National Public Health Week, the Marion County Hometown Health Coalition hosted a cookout for community stakeholders, public health employees and coalition members. Also on Friday, the Van Buren County Health Unit celebrated the 100th anniversary and held the grand opening of the Breastfeeding Resource Center. ![Figure7](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F7.medium.gif) [Figure7](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F7) The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health celebrates National Public Health Week at a community health expo. In Long Beach, Calif., the Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services took the “Public Health is ROI: Save Lives, Save Money” theme of National Public Health Week to dedicate each day to an event that represented investments in health. The Employee Recognition Committee organized events such as a National Public Health Week kickoff celebration and healthy breakfast on April 1. The following day was “Touch Your Toes Tuesday,” an opportunity for employees to wear workout clothes to the office to promote physical fitness and participate in a yoga session. Wednesday featured the ninth annual “Hill Challenge,” where employees raced to the top of Signal Hill, and also a healthy eating demonstration. During a Thursday seminar, staff and community partners shared public health success stories and ideas for the future. Friday’s main event was a healthy picnic for department staff. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health in Los Angeles, Calif., celebrated National Public Health Week by staging two health expos, one for county employees and the other for the community. The first event, for county employees, kicked off April 2 at the new Grand Park in the heart of downtown Los Angeles with the theme “Empowering a Healthy Workplace.” Hundreds of staff members attended the expo, which featured a self-defense demonstration and live music. The park’s expansive green lawn served as an outdoor studio for staff members to practice their poses during a yoga session and enjoy both hip-hop dance and Zumba exercise classes. Booths at the expo provided information on topics such as immunization, emergency preparedness and response, nutrition and tobacco cessation. Representatives from the county’s health plans were on hand to answer questions and provide information, and a blood drive and bone marrow registry offered a chance for donations. ![Figure8](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F8.medium.gif) [Figure8](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F8) In Oxnard, Calif., “Know Your Numbers Wednesday” on April 3 offers body mass index and blood pressure checks. The community expo, with the theme “Empowering a Healthy Community,” took place April 4 at El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historic Monument. Outreach such as fliers, postcards, newsletter articles and social media posts drew more than 1,000 attendees. The expo brought 48 booths and mobile facilities providing free health screenings, including dental, vision, hearing, blood pressure, allergy, asthma, glucose, body mass index and HIV testing and information on a variety of health topics. Giveaways included recipe books, bike maps, toothbrushes and bookmarks. ![Figure9](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F9.medium.gif) [Figure9](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F9) In Hartford, Conn., informational tables were set up in the Legislative Office Building. To encourage attendees to visit a variety of booths, they were given a “Passport Card.” Those who collected the required stamps at specific booths could claim a prize: either a small bottle of hand sanitizer or Los Angeles County’s 100-page “Emergency Survival Guide.” Special events at the expo included a puppet show, self-defense and healthy cooking demonstrations, live mariachi music and yoga and Zumba classes. ![Figure10](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F10.medium.gif) [Figure10](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F10) High schoolers in a “Public Health 101” class in New Haven, Conn., display their “Public Health Starts Here” wristbands. Kaiser Permanente Heritage Resources in Oakland, Calif., featured a blog tribute to public health pioneer Lester Breslow, MD, MPH, during National Public Health Week. Breslow, who died last year at the age of 97, was a former dean of the Fielding School of Public Health at the University of California Los Angeles and director of the California Department of Public Health from 1965-1968. He was also APHA president from 1968-1969 and focused his research on finding mathematical support for the idea that improving personal habits such as eating better, quitting smoking and sleeping well could significantly affect a person’s quality and length of life. The Public Health Services of Orange County Health Care Agency in Orange County, Calif., hosted a series of events celebrating National Public Health Week. Deputy Agency Director David Souleles, MPH, an APHA member, sent an email announcement each day recognizing the valuable work being done by public health staff. His messages commended a different program and staff member’s contributions to public health’s return on investment each day of National Public Health Week. On April 1, the agency unveiled a display of public health programs and their contributions to return on investment. Programs were invited to submit slides of their work using a This is Public Health sticker to promote public health awareness and the ways public health affects the community on a daily basis. The collage of slides was on display at the Orange County Hall of Administration throughout the week. On April 2, a National Public Health Week celebration and poster contest featured the return on investment message. Agency staff learned about local programs and how those programs save money and save lives. On April 3, a presentation titled “What the Health Does Economics Have to do with Public Health?” explored economic principles and concepts such as opportunity cost and “sunk cost” and how those apply to public health. April 4 featured a screening of “The Weight of the Nation, Part Four: Challenges.” Agency staff had the opportunity to view the film and discuss local solutions. The agency will carry the return on investment theme throughout the year by featuring posters and messages in the agency newsletter. ![Figure11](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F11.medium.gif) [Figure11](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F11) In Long Beach, Calif., health department employees enjoyed a race to the top of a hill. Ventura County Public Health in Oxnard, Calif., distributed a Five-Day Challenge Calendar to all Ventura County Health Care Agency employees prior to National Public Health Week. The challenge called on employees to “take time each day to focus on improving your own health.” April 1 was “Instant Recess Monday,” when employees were encouraged to take a 10-minute break from work and enjoy some physical activity. “Trekking Tuesday” on April 2 featured a 10 a.m. walk around the neighborhood, an activity that proved so popular staff members now plan to walk every Tuesday and Thursday morning. “Know Your Numbers Wednesday” on April 3 gave employees the opportunity to have their body mass index and blood pressure checked. “Potluck Thursday” on April 4 invited employees to bring a healthy dish and the corresponding recipe to share at a potluck lunch, with prizes given for the three top dishes. Prizes included a crate of produce donated by local gardeners from the Camino del Sol Community Garden in Oxnard. Three years ago, Ventura County Public Health helped pave the way for the community garden to be built on a weed-filled lot flanking one of the city’s low-income neighborhoods. Today, more than 40 volunteer gardeners tend plots and share harvests from the garden. “Download Friday” on April 5 asked employees to commit to better health by downloading one of three free mobile health apps. One tracked sleep patterns, the other scanned a product’s bar code and then graded it on its health value and the third allowed people to map exercise routes, log food intake, track activities and find exercise buddies. The Connecticut Department of Public Health and Connecticut Public Health Association set up informational tables in the concourse of the Legislative Office Building in Hartford, Conn., during National Public Health Week. Programs representing the health department, including tobacco, public health preparedness, sexually transmitted diseases, school health, occupational health and immunizations, were represented. ![Figure12](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F12.medium.gif) [Figure12](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F12) In Orange County, Calif., a Public Health Resolution is presented on behalf of the chairman of the Board of Supervisors. Passersby visiting the displays asked questions and took advantage of free materials such as pedometers, brochures, pens and stress balls. ![Figure13](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F13.medium.gif) [Figure13](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F13) Medical students in Santo Domingo and San Pedro de Macoris in the Dominican Republic collaborated on activities. The Connecticut Department of Public Health also designed a Web page specific to National Public Health Week that included links to the national observance and outlined each day’s theme, such as “Ensuring a Safe, Healthy Home for your Family” on April 1 with links to fact sheets and booklets. The agency posted a National Public Health Week graphic on its home page to drive visitors to the site. The department also developed podcasts for each daily National Public Health Week sub-theme, with experts answering frequently asked questions about the topics. A written transcript accompanied each podcast. The department also issued a new release announcing National Public Health Week and posted daily messages on Facebook and Twitter. ![Figure14](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F14.medium.gif) [Figure14](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F14) At Florida A&M University in Tallahassee, student-led events included workplace health promotion activities. Medical students in Santo Domingo and San Pedro de Macoris in the Dominican Republic collaborated during National Public Health Week on health promotion activities related to healthy lifestyles that reduce the risk of hypertension. Students representing the Universidad Autonoma de Santo Domingo, Universidad del Este, Universidad Iberoamericana, Universidad Nacional Pedro Henriquez Urena and Universidad Technologica de Santiago formed teams to take the preventive health education model to their schools and the local community. ![Figure15](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F15.medium.gif) [Figure15](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F15) Hofstra University’s School of Health Sciences and Human Services in Hempstead, N.Y., hosts a National Public Health Week event. Using the theme of “Reduce your Blood Pressure: Take Care of Your Heart!” the medical students underscored the importance of physical activity and good nutrition for improved physical and mental health. ![Figure16](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F16.medium.gif) [Figure16](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F16) At the National University of Health Sciences in Pinellas Park, Fla., activities included a booth with health information. At the universities, student teams planned health activities for students, professors and employees. They organized seminars to raise awareness about high blood pressure and risk factors related to nutrition, sedentary lifestyle and stress. Using brochures from the Dominican Republic Ministry of Public Health and Social Assistance, student teams also designed and distributed educational fliers and posters promoting active learning about risk factors related to hypertension. In clinical rotations, medical students provided short workshops to fellow students on the proper way to measure blood pressure and how to interact with patients. Teams motivated students to be creative by writing positive messages about health on a wall banner located in the central area of campus. Students also put on health fairs at campuses and local parks, where they measured blood pressure, body mass index and abdominal circumference and distributed information on dietary guidelines and risk factors for hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Another aspect of the National Public Health Week celebration was a social media push via blogs and Facebook to promote blood pressure awareness. Students highlighted the importance of recognizing inequalities for people with limited economic resources and access to medications and health services. Faculty and students at the Florida campus of the National University of Health Sciences in Pinellas Park, Fla., organized several National Public Health Week activities. Monday through Friday, an exhibition booth in the main lobby of the St. Petersburg College Caruth Health Education Center in Pinellas Park during the lunch hour featured National Public Health Week information for students, faculty, staff and visitors. Another highlight was a panel discussion titled “An Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure.” Hosted jointly by the National University of Health Services and St. Petersburg College, panelists included instructors in neural science, public health, chiropractic and functional medicine and infectious disease and pathology. Panelists discussed ways to prevent injuries to children, the contributions made by public health and medicine in both communicable and noncommunicable diseases and in the development of healthy habits aimed at preventing chronic disease. Panelists also highlighted the preventable disease burden on the economy and how individuals, communities and public health professionals can lessen the burden. Several students in the doctor of chiropractic program wore badges with the “Public Heath is ROI: Save Lives, Save Money” logo to raise awareness about National Public Health Week and return on investment, and a faculty member posted daily safety messages on her Facebook page. ![Figure17](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F17.medium.gif) [Figure17](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F17) Students at the University of South Florida College of Public Health in Tampa, Fla., show off their support for public health. Photo courtesy Ellen Kent Since 1997, the Florida A&M University Future Public Health Professionals group in Tallahassee, Fla., has commemorated National Public Health Week with a slate of events aligned with the yearly theme. This year’s events included outreach to the local community with home safety and health information, anti-bullying messages for students, workplace health promotion, a town hall meeting with presentations on issues that impact health and an interactive exercise on the dangers of distracted driving. ![Figure18](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F18.medium.gif) [Figure18](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F18) The Monroe County Public Health Clinic in Bloomington, Ind., hosted a National Public Health Week health fair. With guidance from their faculty advisor, Future Public Health Professionals members authored an article that was published in the local paper, the *Tallahassee Democrat*, titled “Public Health is a Sound Investment.” The article emphasized the importance of increasing awareness to save lives and create healthy communities and also publicized the upcoming town hall meeting. The meeting included presentations by local community health advocates and gave local community health organizations the opportunity to promote the services they provide. ![Figure19](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F19.medium.gif) [Figure19](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F19) The Anderson County Health Department in Clinton, Tenn., hosted community outreach. The University of South Florida College of Public Health in Tampa, Fla., united with communities and organizations around the country to observe National Public Health Week. Public health students jump-started the festivities with a “freeze mob” at the university’s student center. For six minutes, participants held poses to promote the message of “Don’t Put Your Health on Hold.” Once the mob disbanded, members spread out across the campus, tagging various areas with This is Public Health stickers and distributing National Public Health Week fliers. Students spread public health posts across their social media networks as well. ![Figure20](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F20.medium.gif) [Figure20](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F20) The Chicago Lighthouse in Chicago, Ill., opened its new Sunlight Café, a partnership with Le Cordon Bleu Cooking School. Photo courtesy Dominic Calabrese April 1 was dubbed Advocating for Kids Day and started with a panel discussion led by experts in mental health, health policy and centers on maternal and child health and family violence. An informational fair featured resources to protect children at home, at school and in the community. Fair attendees learned about pending Florida legislation, met with college and community experts in children’s health, family violence and safety and had the opportunity to sign a petition in support of public health funding and register for a March of Dimes walk. On April 2, the college showcased its innovative academic programs with tours of health and safety research laboratories and gave presentations on degree, certificate and training programs. The following day, more than 75 students and alumni attended the college’s networking fair, visiting with public and private health organizations dedicated to making the world a healthier and safer place. ![Figure21](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F21.medium.gif) [Figure21](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F21) The Kane County Health Department in Aurora, Ill., filed for accreditation in April. Also on April 3, the college recognized high achievers in the areas of transformational research and teaching with the National Public Health Week Awards Ceremony. The ceremony highlighted the academic and research achievements of more than 140 students and Delta Omega inductees, with awards also given for Outstanding Professor of the Year and Florida Outstanding Woman in Public Health. ![Figure22](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F22.medium.gif) [Figure22](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F22) Poster session student presenters pose during a research symposium event held at Southern Illinois University, Carbondale. Photo courtesy Ghulan “Leo” Makhdoom Other National Public Health Week events made possible with support from student volunteers included a health fair in partnership with the Tampa Bay Burmese Council, a Spring Fling Dessert Party for residents of the American Cancer Society Benjamin Mendick Hope Lodge and a blood and bone marrow drive that attracted more than 85 participants. Student Day emphasized the fun and exciting aspects of the field of public health and encouraged students to demonstrate how public health is their practice and their passion. Information stations were staffed by students in the health professions, and the day also offered free frozen yogurt, hula hooping, pedometer giveaways and the opportunity to create T-shirts bearing a public health message. The Morehouse School of Medicine’s Department of Community Health & Preventive Medicine in Atlanta, Ga., celebrated National Public Health Week with the third annual Dr. Daniel S. Blumenthal Annual Public Health Summit on April 2 and 3. The summit’s theme was “Preventing Obesity Through the Life Stages” and addressed obesity as a health problem for people from childhood through older adulthood. The goal of the summit was to gather, exchange and disseminate ideas about the impact of obesity as a public health issue. Local and national speakers addressing the theme included U.S. Assistant Secretary for Health Howard Koh, MD, MPH, and former U.S. Surgeon General David Satcher, MD, PhD, an APHA member who established the Satcher Health Leadership Institute at the school. Plenary, concurrent and poster sessions featured noted local and national leaders, researchers and students. The summit sessions were designed to engage physicians, educators, students, community-based organizations and the public through the four conference tracks of community awareness, community-based and clinical settings, research and nutrition and physical activity. The Kane County Health Department in Aurora, Ill., celebrated National Public Health Week by officially filing for accreditation by the Public Health Accreditation Board. The health department has been preparing for accreditation for several years. Kane County Health Department Executive Director Barbara Jeffers, MPH, submitted the documentation needed for national accreditation during an April 5 ceremony. ![Figure23](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F23.medium.gif) [Figure23](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F23) The Lawrence-Douglas County Health Department in Kansas celebrated public health heroes. To prepare for accreditation, staff members from the health department’s program areas served on one or more of 12 work groups tackling the 12 categories that needed to be addressed for accreditation. Health department officials said the process has led to many improvements in how the department does business, including improvements in emergency response drills, information sharing and public health nursing competencies. Accreditation is seen by the department as one step in the journey to having the healthiest Illinois residents by 2030. Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, Ill., held the 2013 Robert D. Russell Research Symposium and Scholar Address on April 8 to observe National Public Health Week. The event, hosted by the Department of Health Education and Recreation and the student-led Alpha Alpha chapter of the health education honorary society Eta Sigma Gamma, included presentations from faculty, professionals and graduate students as well as a student poster session, a social and the Robert D. Russell Scholar Address. Continuing education credits were available for those interested in taking the professional development track, which included aspects on program evaluation. The theme for the 2013 symposium was “Healthy People 2020: Health Educators: Investing in a Healthier Generation.” More than 60 students and staff attended, including those from Illinois State University, Eastern Illinois University and Western Illinois University. ![Figure24](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F24.medium.gif) [Figure24](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F24) The Master of Public Health Student Advisory Panel of Benedictine University in Lisle, Ill., presented interactive activities. The symposium included best practice sessions with four speakers in each session sharing aspects of their programs in the areas of promoting school health, worksite wellness and community health. Nearly 100 faculty, students and public health practitioners gathered for the evening address. The Chicago Lighthouse in Chicago, Ill., celebrated National Public Health Week with a community walk, lectures from Chicago police on street safety, a wellness dance and healthy selections at the new Sunlight Café. ![Figure25](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F25.medium.gif) [Figure25](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F25) In Kansas City, Kan., the Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska and Kansas Public Health Associations meeting was held April 4-5. The unveiling of the new café marked an innovative partnership between the Lighthouse and Le Cordon Bleu Cooking School. Staffed by student interns from the famed cooking school, the café is dedicated to providing delicious and nutritious cuisine. Chef Jeff Santicola, director of education at Le Cordon Bleu, said that the partnership will help his students, some of whom have disabilities, to improve their skills by working in a cafeteria environment. The Chicago Lighthouse is a nonprofit agency providing educational, clinical, vocational and rehabilitative services for people who are blind and visually impaired. The organization’s National Public Health Week festivities were led by a Wellness Committee. The Master of Public Health Student Advisory Panel of Benedictine University in Lisle, Ill., presented detailed poster boards and interactive activities with the university’s undergraduate and graduate students during National Public Health Week. For four hours each day, advisory panel students spoke with other university students about health issues facing their communities, such as the dangers of texting and driving, how to prevent fires in the home and how to volunteer in the community. Interactive games included a “Family Feud” style trivia game. Throughout the week, more than 200 students participated in the activities. Each day of National Public Health Week, advisory panel members staffed a table in the campus student center for two hours during the lunch break and in a classroom building lobby for two hours in the late afternoon. ![Figure26](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F26.medium.gif) [Figure26](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F26) In Sinton, Texas, health events included education programs at the county courthouse. The Monroe County Public Health Clinic, a collaboration between Indiana University Health Bloomington Hospital and the Monroe County Health Department in Bloomington, Ind., hosted a National Public Health Week health fair on April 6. The event featured free screenings, including blood pressure, weight and body mass index, HIV, posture and depression. The event coincided with the local Bloomington Farmers Market. ![Figure27](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F27.medium.gif) [Figure27](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F27) In Kansas, Sedgwick County Health Department employees thanked their fellow public health workers with e-cards. The University of Iowa College of Public Health in Iowa City, Iowa, hosted a screening of the documentary “Escape Fire: The Fight to Rescue American Healthcare” to kick off National Public Health Week. Students, faculty and local health care providers and community members turned out to view and discuss the film about problems with the nation’s health care delivery system. After the discussion, members of the College of Public Health Student Association and Community and Behavioral Health Student Association held an open forum. Topics included worksite wellness, alternative medicines and time constraints that providers face in striving to give their patients the best care. Organizers called it the start of a conversation about what public health can do to help. The Johnson County Department of Health and Environment in Johnson County, Kan., and the Kansas Public Health Association teamed up during National Public Health Week to present the film “Escape Fire: The Fight to Rescue American Healthcare” at the Glenwood Arts Theater in Overland Park, Kan. Attendees included representatives from local health departments, school districts, universities, private industry, safety net clinics, the state health department and local hospitals and coalitions. ![Figure28](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F28.medium.gif) [Figure28](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F28) A “flash mob” in Boston, Mass., with participants from Harbor Health Services Inc., the Boston Public Health Commission and the Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers. Photo courtesy Harbor Health Services Inc. Upon arrival, attendees were asked to respond in writing to the question, “What is one thing you would ask Congress to change about public health and health care in America?” Responses were collected and forwarded to lawmakers. A panel discussion followed the showing of the film. In Kansas City, Kan., the third annual MINK, or Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska and Kansas Public Health Associations, meeting was held April 4 and 5. First-day speakers included Kansas Department of Health and Environment Secretary Robert Moser, MD, and University of Nebraska School Medical Center’s College of Public Health Dean and APHA Executive Board member Ayman El-Mohandes, MD, MPH, MBBCH. Each of the four states was represented on two panels, health impact assessments and public health and community hospital collaborations. Other presentations focused on graduate programs in public health and initiatives of the University of Kansas Medical Center. ![Figure29](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F29.medium.gif) [Figure29](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F29) The Anne Arundel County Health Department in Annapolis, Md., honored 30 employees with Public Health Hero Awards during National Public Health Week. Photo courtesy Deborah Mellon The second day of the meeting offered a webinar option for members who could not attend the meeting in person. A presentation focused on behavioral health and return on investment and the Affordable Care Act. Another provided information on the mission, purpose and current participants of the group. ![Figure30](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F30.medium.gif) [Figure30](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F30) Students at Xavier University of Louisiana in New Orleans, La., share health information. Photo courtesy Elin Jones The Lawrence-Douglas County Health Department in Lawrence, Kan., celebrated some local public health heroes during National Public Health Week. On April 5, the first Community Health Champion Breakfast honored an adult and a youth for their exceptional efforts to model, encourage and promote health in the community. The winners were a middle school teacher who started an after-school exercise program, two-mile fun run and other free activities for students and a student volunteer at the health department who helped with projects such as analyzing statistics on childhood injuries and researching how a lack of transportation is affecting the well-being of low-income residents. ![Figure31](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F31.medium.gif) [Figure31](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F31) At the University of North Carolina at Charlotte Department of Public Health Sciences in Charlotte, N.C., a kickoff event included a talk with surgery professor Glenn Geelhoed, MD, third from left, who discussed his work with the poor. During an April 3 luncheon, the health department recognized five employees who went above and beyond the call of duty and were nominated by their peers for the 2013 Kay Kent Excellence in Public Health Service Award. The City of Lawrence and Douglas County governments also signed proclamations that recognized April 1-7 as National Public Health Week. Other activities included an April 5 trivia game, during which health department staff answered questions about public health. Throughout National Public Health Week, all activities were promoted through Facebook, Twitter and a community-based website called WellCommons. And Lawrence-Douglas County Health Department Director Dan Partridge, MPH, RS, an APHA member, placed a water bottle and note of appreciation on each staff member’s desk, noting that “Together we are making a difference.” ![Figure32](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F32.medium.gif) [Figure32](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F32) Students from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, share health information on preventing influenza. The Sedgwick County Health Department in Wichita, Kan., encouraged employees to thank their fellow public health workers for their dedication to improving the health of county residents by sending a National Public Health Week e-card. One such card depicted a flying super hero and the words, “I see you’ve been using your powers for good. Super!” Also, “A Day in the Life of Public Health” printed card illustrated how the scope of public health goes beyond what many would expect and affects people every day. Because National Public Health Week also fell within National Volunteer Month, the Sedgwick County Health Department took the opportunity to thank the 171 volunteers who committed 1,155 hours of service at the health department in 2012. Of those, 23 volunteers were dentists who donated an estimated $79,540 worth of care. Other volunteers have served as community health navigators and served in the Children’s Dental Clinic, Healthy Babies Program, Medical Reserve Corps and Tuberculosis Control Program. The Sedgwick County Health Department also marked National Public Health Week by presenting the 2013 Doren Frederickson Lifetime Commitment to Public Health Award during the April 3 County Commission meeting. The award recognizes an individual who has shown a lifetime commitment to public health in Sedgwick County. ![Figure33](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F33.medium.gif) [Figure33](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F33) In Lexington, Mo., a public health poster contest for fourth- and fifth-grade students focused on tobacco use prevention. Students with a major or minor in public health sciences at Xavier University of Louisiana in New Orleans, La., celebrated National Public Health Week by leading programs for fellow university students. On April 4, three groups of students in the health promotion program planning class implemented programs such as distribution of information on substance abuse, activity bags with healthy snacks, a quick guide on how students can improve their health and brochures on healthy ways to cope with stress. Students put those brochures in the campus Counseling and Wellness Center. ![Figure34](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F34.medium.gif) [Figure34](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F34) A student shares a public health message on a wall banner in the Dominican Republic. The Anne Arundel County Health Department in Annapolis, Md., honored 30 employees with Public Health Hero Awards during National Public Health Week. The awards celebrated exemplary public health work in behavioral health, environmental health, disease prevention and management, family health services and school health. In addition to the awards ceremonies held at the Health Department in Annapolis and Behavioral Health Building in Glen Burnie, Md., the department also held a nature walk and hosted guest speakers to mark National Public Health Week. Students from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County’s Health Administration and Policy Program led a National Public Health Week health fair at the Port Discovery Children’s Museum in Baltimore, Md. Designed to inform and entertain children ages 2-10, the fair focused on health topics such as dental hygiene, flu prevention, exercise and nutrition. University students prepared for the fair by conducting research on specific health topics and then assembling tabletop displays with relevant, age-appropriate information. Students also aimed to make the displays as interactive as possible. For example, the physical activity display offered jump ropes to demonstrate that physical activity can be fun. ![Figure35](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F35.medium.gif) [Figure35](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F35) In Missouri, the City of St. Louis Department of Health shares educational information. At the University of Maryland College Park campus in College Park, Md., the Herschel S. Horowitz Center for Health Literacy partnered with the Eppley Recreation Center to focus on physical activity and health information during National Public Health Week. On April 2, the center hosted a Doonya demonstration class in the high-energy cardiovascular dance workout. Before the demonstration, a center intern gave a quick interview of the Bollywood dance style and spoke on the importance of physical activity and talked about health information and National Public Health Week. More than 100 students attended. ![Figure36](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F36.medium.gif) [Figure36](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F36) Students at Wyandanch Union Free School District in New York take part in a cooking demonstration. Events at the school raised awareness about the importance of healthy lifestyles. The center also invited a range of organizations to host exhibit tables with health information available for browsing before and after the demo class. Information included topics such as physical activity and sexual health, to name a few. Participating groups included the Bengali Student Association, Choosing Health Options in the College Environment Safely, Sexual Health and Reproductive Education and BikeUMD. Students were also treated to free healthy food including fresh vegetables, fruit and bottled water. A National Public Health Week “flash mob” in Boston, Mass., featured participants from Harbor Health Services Inc., the Boston Public Health Commission and the Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers. The mob, about 200 strong and led by a drum line, attracted media and public attention in City Hall Plaza and brought awareness to two initiatives that support healthy living, Boston Moves for Health and Jo the Mo. Boston Moves for Health aims to help people find easy, affordable ways to fit physical activity into their days. Jo the Mo, short for “Join the Movement,” promotes exercise and nutrition and also access to health care. ![Figure37](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F37.medium.gif) [Figure37](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F37) National Public Health Week events in Brookline, Mass., included a tai chi demonstration and wellness fair. Students and administrators at the Tufts University Public Health and Professional Degree Programs in Boston, Mass., held a full slate of National Public Health Week events and a “This is Public Health” photo contest. Students organized a panel discussion on violence and mental health, a live demonstration of healthy eating on a budget and a workshop on ergonomics. The administration hosted a talk on Boston’s Healthy Communities movement and a half-day conference on community-engaged obesity prevention research. The Brookline Department of Public Health in Brookline, Mass., celebrated National Public Health Week with events that included a talk on the need for geriatric-specific practitioners, a parenting workshop on teen mental health and depression awareness, a smoke-free housing workshop and a panel discussion on city-based partnerships. Other events included a rabies vaccination clinic for dogs and cats and a wellness fair. Grand Valley State University’s community health education course hosted a community health fair at the David D. Hunting YMCA in downtown Grand Rapids, Mich., during National Public Health Week. The health fair was a culmination of an entire semester’s learning objectives including a review of community needs and then design, marketing, implementation and evaluation of the event. Students at the Township, Mich., university were responsible for creating a booth — on a health topic of their choice — that included information and hands-on activities. Booths touched on topics such as cancer prevention, creating healthy home environments, memory awareness, active lifestyles and hand- washing. ![Figure38](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F38.medium.gif) [Figure38](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F38) Events in West Chester, Pa., included a drawing contest for fourth-graders, a food drive and a photo contest for teens. Also, each student was required to obtain a community health partner from the local area to share expertise at the fair. The idea was to have students use their professional networking skills. Health professionals from organizations such as the American Cancer Society, Fit Kids 360, Kent County Health Department and Paws for a Cause volunteered their time to the event. ![Figure39](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F39.medium.gif) [Figure39](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F39) A community health fair was hosted by Grand Valley State University in Michigan. The fair featured 26 booths. Participants were engaged with a scavenger hunt of questions to be answered to be eligible to win prizes donated by local sponsors, including a YMCA membership, yoga gift certificates, gift cards and various fitness packages and equipment. More than 200 community members took part in the health fair, many filling out evaluations that said they enjoyed the hands-on components and learned a lot from the topics highlighted in the booths. The Lafayette County Health Department in Lexington, Mo., focused on how preventing tobacco use and accidental injury provides return on investment during National Public Health Week by highlighting two popular prevention programs offered to all public and private school districts in the county. Tar Wars is a tobacco prevention program geared for fourth- and fifth-grade students. During this year’s National Public Health Week, students in the Trinity Lutheran School District participated in a Tar Wars poster contest to reinforce the message that being tobacco-free is part of a healthy lifestyle. ![Figure40](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F40.medium.gif) [Figure40](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F40) The Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta, Ga., held a public health summit. The health department also provides basic aid training to middle school students. During National Public Health Week, Lafayette County Health Department staff presented the training using American Red Cross curriculum. Students learned about basic first aid, fire prevention, poisoning prevention, making a 911 emergency call, being prepared for disasters, rescue breathing and what to do if someone is choking. At the Clay County Public Health Center in Liberty, Mo., board members and partners celebrated both National Public Health Week and 60 years of service to local communities. On Monday, April 1, state, county and city public health partners set up booths at the health center focusing on the theme of “Safe At Home — A Return on Investment.” The group Rebuilding Together Clay County offered information on fall prevention, a Clay County emergency health planner highlighted how to make home emergency plans and North Kansas City Fire Department discussed smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Other groups on hand included the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services Radon Program. ![Figure41](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F41.medium.gif) [Figure41](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F41) On April 1, the Multnomah County Health Department in Portland, Ore., held its 13th Public Health Heroes Celebration. On April 2, a local registered dietitian talked with moms about healthy breakfasts for picky eaters and distributed juice boxes and cereal bags to young children. April 3 featured an afternoon of reflection on the past and a hint of the future, along with “flash mob” dancing to get the crowd moving at an open house staffed by more than 100 public health partners and local health departments from the metro Kansas City area. Also, the newly formed Northland Mother & Child Partnership released its 2013 Health Data Set for review. Near the end of that presentation, the Mother & Child Coalition of Greater Kansas City presented Clay County Public Health Center with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Bronze Award for being a breastfeeding-friendly facility. ![Figure42](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F42.medium.gif) [Figure42](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F42) Students at the University of Maryland, College Park, take part in an exercise class. April 4 focused on safety while on the move with seat belt checks at all entrances to the health center and child safety seat checks by health center staff and Liberty Fire Department personnel. On April 5, the health center distributed tie-dyed T-shirts with the words “I Love Public Health” to staff, and the day ended with an employee appreciation dinner and awards ceremony. The City of St. Louis Department of Health in St. Louis, Mo., celebrated National Public Health Week throughout the city by sponsoring a variety of events. On April 1, an interactive “Healthy Home” display developed by the health department’s Child Environmental Health Division focused on the easy and sometimes lifesaving steps individuals and families can take to build a healthy home. The display educated community members and employees at the Abram Building, inviting them to learn more about the dangers of smoking, lead and other household hazards. The health department’s Health Promotion, Education and Marketing Division promoted workplace wellness with healthy smoothies and bike blenders in the Rotunda of City Hall on April 3. The bike blender is a mountain bike retrofitted to remain stationary, and as a user pedals, the energy from the rotation of the wheels powers a blender to mix the ingredients. Smoothie ingredients that day included low-fat vanilla yogurt, bananas, frozen blueberries and apple juice. On April 4, the department of health hosted a specialized safety course titled “Safety at Home, Work and all Points Between.” After the hands-on presentation, participants were given safety training certificates. ![Figure43](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F43.medium.gif) [Figure43](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F43) Ivy Oandasan, MD, speaks during a lecture hosted by the University at Buffalo School of Public Health and Health Professions. The University of Medicine & Dentistry of New Jersey in Piscataway, N.J., held its 18th annual New Jersey Public Health Symposium on April 3. The program attracted more than 150 public health professionals and students and featured keynote speaker Richard Hamburg, MPA, deputy director of Trust for America’s Health. He addressed the critical role of public health prevention efforts in reducing illness, injury and, ultimately, health care costs. A local health officer and representatives from the YMCA Diabetes Prevention Program talked about local public health initiatives. The symposium, sponsored by the New Jersey Public Health Training Center, also featured 20 poster presentations from students and professionals as well as tabletop presentations from agencies across the state. The New Jersey Public Health Association held two National Public Health Week events in Piscataway, N.J. A Nintendo Wii Mario Olympics 100-meter dash challenged participants to see how fast they could move their arms to propel their virtual character across the finish line. Many participants said they were surprised at how much energy it took to compete in a short, interactive video game race. The second competition was a pedometer contest that spanned National Public Health Week. Participants picked up a pedometer for $1 and then were challenged to have the highest reading by the end of the week and email a picture of their pedometer count to NJPHA. The winner logged nearly 93,000 steps. Also, both NJPHA and the APHA Affiliate’s Rutgers University Student Chapter staffed tables at the 18th Annual New Jersey Public Health Symposium during National Public Health Week. ![Figure44](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F44.medium.gif) [Figure44](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F44) Students from the University of South Florida College of Public Health help children plant mini gardens at a health fair. Photo courtesy Ellen Kent Students enrolled in undergraduate public health courses at the University at Albany, State University of New York, in Albany, N.Y., took time during National Public Health Week to raise awareness about the importance of public health. Some of the students used social media to publicize videos, photographs, statistics and other information about how public health offers a return on investment. ![Figure45](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F45.medium.gif) [Figure45](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F45) Students at East Carolina University in Greenville, N.C., hosted a range of health events. Other students discussed a range of public health topics through face-to-face interactions with friends, family members and fellow students. Students also worked to clean up the environment, encouraged friends and family to join them in physical activity, developed informational fliers for distribution at a child and family center, showed a public health video during a fashion show, represented public health on a career panel for high school students, posted This is Public Health stickers on campus and contributed to fundraisers for cancer prevention and safe water access. ![Figure46](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F46.medium.gif) [Figure46](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F46) At Arcadia University in Glenside, Pa., students created “ROI dollars” bearing facts on public health’s return on investment. The University at Buffalo School of Public Health and Health Professions in Buffalo, N.Y., recognized National Public Health Week with a series of events highlighting and celebrating public health efforts in communities across the nation and world. First, a presentation by an oncology professor from Roswell Park Cancer Institute focused on “American Cancer Society Research and Health Promotion Programs.” On April 2, a workshop titled “Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction” provided an introduction to a method for reducing stress and alleviating a range of physical and psychological symptoms. On April 3, the school screened the film “Escape Fire: The Fight to Rescue American Healthcare,” followed by a panel discussion led by public health faculty and providers. On April 4, a student in the school’s Department of Community Health and Health Behavior presented a seminar titled “The Evaluation of a Malaria Education Program in Uganda.” An April 5 seminar was titled “Menstrual Hygiene Matters: Addressing Barriers for Schoolgirls in Low-Income Countries.” April 5 also featured the third annual Glen E. Gresham Lecture, which this year focused on “Being on the Cutting Edge — Advancing Interprofessional Education for Quality Care.” Hofstra University’s School of Health Sciences and Human Services in Hempstead, N.Y., celebrated National Public Health Week with events April 3-5. Those included a talk titled “Mental Health Policy and Practice Issues in the Wake of Sandy Hook: An Invitation to the Conversation” and a viewing of the film “Unnatural Causes.” A talk on April 4 asked “Immunizations: Why is Public Health’s Greatest Achievement Also Our Greatest Challenge?” On Friday, April 5, a morning presentation was titled “Are We Ready For the Next Big One? Lessons From Hurricane Sandy.” An afternoon Zumba session was followed by a screening of “Soul Food Junkies” and a panel discussion and food tasting. Students also staffed a table in the Mack Student Center from April 3-5. ![Figure47](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F47.medium.gif) [Figure47](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F47) Epidemiologist Daniel Morris talks about radon testing during a webinar in Portland, Ore. Jefferson County Public Health Service in Watertown, N.Y., observed National Public Health Week through a variety of activities. A public health nurse appeared on the local noon news to talk about public health and return on investment. The public health service director and a health planner talked about public health when they recorded “Community Perspectives,” a local radio show that aired multiple times on local radio stations throughout the week. Health services staff were challenged to complete the message “Public health is…” And the department posted public health tips and information on its Facebook page throughout National Public Health Week. ![Figure48](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F48.medium.gif) [Figure48](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F48) The Chicago Lighthouse celebrates National Public Health Week with a community walk. Photo courtesy Dominic Calabrese The Wyandanch Union Free School District in Wyandanch, N.Y., worked during National Public Health Week to raise awareness about the importance of healthy lifestyles and how they can permeate the school environment all year. The high school marquee and banners displayed in four school buildings informed students and school staff about National Public Health Week. Three hundred pedometers, donated by the Suffolk County Department of Health Services, were distributed to staff members on Monday, April 1. Daily email messages sent to staff included health tips on nutritious foods, types of exercises and reminders to use the pedometers. Workshops including the importance of good nutrition and physical activity, healthy snacks, yoga and stress reduction were offered at each school building, reaching about 500 students. The school district partnered with the Suffolk County Department of Health Services, Steven and Alexandra Cohen Children’s Medical Center of New York and the Western Suffolk Board of Cooperative Educational Services-Healthy Schools N.Y. to make National Public Health Week a local success. ![Figure49](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F49.medium.gif) [Figure49](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F49) The Student Section of the Maryland Public Health Association in Baltimore, Md., participated in a variety of health events. The University of North Carolina at Charlotte Department of Public Health Sciences in Charlotte, N.C., celebrated National Public Health Week with a full slate of activities. On April 1, keynote speakers talked about providing health care and education to the poor in the most economically disadvantaged regions of the world and how physical activity taps into the roots of people’s genetic makeup to preserve health and delay the aging process. ![Figure50](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F50.medium.gif) [Figure50](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F50) In Los Angeles, National Public Health Week activities included a group exercise session that was held outdoors. Activities on April 2 included a “No Texting and Driving” event, where campus police teamed with the Graduate Public Health Association to encourage students to sign a pledge and gave students the chance to drive a pedal cart course to simulate the dangers of texting and driving. And a social for alumni, students, staff and faculty included an alumni-led panel discussion about their experiences in public health. April 3 featured a farmers market with local and healthy food and a presentation about the Cuban health care system by students who traveled to the country. National Public Health Week events also included induction ceremonies for students in the Delta Omega and Upsilon Phi Delta honor societies. On April 8, the executive director of Clean Air Carolina spoke about the health effects of regional air quality and climate change. The Graduate Student Public Health Organization at East Carolina University in Greenville, N.C., kicked off National Public Health Week on campus on April 1 by highlighting healthy eating and physical activity. At Wright Plaza, students handed out bottled water and wallet-sized cards with healthy eating and physical activity tips to students, faculty and staff. On April 2 at the Boys & Girls Club, students led interactive activities aimed at educating youth on how to be prepared in the event of an emergency. Activities included drawing evacuation routes for their homes, hurricane role-playing and emergency preparedness workbook exercises. On April 3, students held a fundraiser at a local restaurant to help purchase child safety seats. The April 4 focus was campus safety, with students presenting a program in conjunction with the East Carolina University Police Department on campus safety tips. On April 5, public health students worked to organize 100 birthing kits to be distributed in Haiti. ![Figure51](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F51.medium.gif) [Figure51](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F51) At North Dakota State University in Fargo, N.D., faculty provide insight about their public health research. The Henderson County Department of Public Health in Hendersonville, N.C., celebrated not just National Public Health Week but took the entire month of April to emphasize the return on investment from public health programs, the importance of child passenger safety and the success of past public health achievements. ![Figure52](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F52.medium.gif) [Figure52](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F52) In Oxnard, Calif., events included “Trekking Tuesday” on April 2, which featured a 10 a.m. walk around the neighborhood. An article titled “Public Health’s Return on Investment” ran April 3 in the *Times-News* and encouraged readers to reflect on the return on investment from public health’s programs and services and how they affect the community. A display case at the Henderson County Public Library was dedicated to public health achievements, as was a bulletin board in the health department’s lobby. The health department offered child safety information and car seat checks for parents and guardians on April 11, and an article was published in the Henderson County e-newsletter on the “10 Essential Services of Public Health.” Throughout April, a section of the department’s website featured public health month information. ![Figure53](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F53.medium.gif) [Figure53](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F53) Health officials in West Chester, Pa., partnered with St. Paul’s Baptist Church to offer free HIV testing and other screenings. Fargo Cass Public Health in Fargo, N.D., worked during National Public Health Week to show how the department makes a difference throughout the community. On April 3 at the West Acres Mall, the agency conducted free blood pressure checks, gave away refrigerator thermometers and distributed information on emergency preparedness, pool safety and health promotion. Staff and nurses also oversaw volunteers who made sandbags for flood preparation. Meanwhile, local media attended nurse family partnership appointments to learn how the program helps families who are expecting their first children. Health promotions staff and nutrition students from North Dakota State University gave nutrition presentations to local fourth- and fifth-graders, who had the opportunity to have their pictures taken while sporting milk mustaches. During National Public Health Week at North Dakota State University in Fargo, N.D., faculty in the master of public health program provided insight about their current research and gave ideas for future research collaborations. Also, North Dakota State Health Officer Terry Dwelle, MD, MPH, an APHA member, spoke about integrating public health and primary care and how those with an MPH degree can help lead the way. The week’s events also featured a panel discussion on school wellness policies and local foods. ![Figure54](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F54.medium.gif) [Figure54](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F54) Arcadia University in Glenside, Pa., hosted the Montgomery County Health Department for a panel discussion. The Grand Forks Public Health Department joined with students of the University of North Dakota’s College of Nursing and Professional Disciplines in Grand Forks, N.D., to organize a number of National Public Health Week events. Those included a radio public service announcement on the dangers of texting while driving, a walk for health with blood pressure screenings and healthy snacks for participants and a screening of the film “Escape Fire: The Fight to Rescue American Healthcare.” The City of Cincinnati Health Department distributed public health fact cards to residents and businesses in Cincinnati, Ohio, during National Public Health Week. The health department also kept a steady flow of daily return-on-investment statistics on Twitter and Facebook and created two displays, one for City Hall and one for the health department’s main campus, on the key functions of public health. ![Figure55](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F55.medium.gif) [Figure55](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F55) The University of Medicine & Dentistry of New Jersey held its annual New Jersey Public Health Symposium on April 3. The Ohio Public Health Association and Columbus Public Health in Columbus, Ohio, co-sponsored a National Public Health Week kickoff event titled “Making the Case for Value in Ohio.” Topics included the value of recess in promoting academic performance and the distinction between education, advocacy and lobbying. In Mansfield, Ohio, the Mansfield-Ontario-Richland County Health Department honored two organizations — the Richland County Fair Board and Richland Moves! — at its annual Public Health Day breakfast and awards program on April 3. A keynote address focused on public health’s return on investment. ![Figure56](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F56.medium.gif) [Figure56](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F56) In Cincinnati, community health advocates distributed public health fact cards to residents and businesses. On April 1, the Multnomah County Health Department in Portland, Ore., marked National Public Health Week with its 13th annual Public Health Heroes Celebration. Six public health heroes, including a 12-year-old who helped raise HIV awareness, were recognized for supporting and improving public health. Oregon Environmental Public Health Tracking of the Oregon Health Authority in Portland, Ore., presented two webinars during National Public Health Week: “Using DMV Records for Obesity Tracking” and “Promoting Radon Testing and Mitigation in Oregon.” Among the National Public Health Week activities organized by the Oregon Public Health Association was a Capitol Visit Day in Salem, Ore., where public health partners set up displays to educate visitors and policymakers on the importance of public health. The “I Love ME (Moving & Eating) Walk” around the Capitol was hosted by Marion County, Ore., to highlight diabetes and obesity prevention. Screenings of the film “Escape Fire: The Fight to Rescue American Healthcare” were held at the Oregon Health & Science University and the Portland State Office Building. Other events include a presentation about fast food and a showcase of graduate public health student posters at the Portland State Office Building. In Bethlehem, Pa., the Bethlehem Health Bureau hosted free National Public Health Week events to show the public the easy and small steps to take to make prevention a part of daily life. Events included blood pressure screenings, immunizations, car seat checks, lead screening, HIV and hepatitis testing and a wellness fair. The health director also participated in a panel discussion on careers in public health. The community and global public health programs at Arcadia University in Glenside, Pa., hosted the Montgomery County Health Department for a panel discussion in honor of National Public Health Week. Topics included emergency preparedness, community health outreach and careers in public health. Students created “ROI dollars” bearing different facts on public health’s return on investment and distributed them at the event and throughout campus during National Public Health Week. ![Figure57](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F57.medium.gif) [Figure57](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F57) In Shelby, Tenn., a Friday farmers market sold fresh, local produce and other food to community residents. In Philadelphia, Pa., the Jefferson School of Population Health at Thomas Jefferson University celebrated National Public Health Week with a lunchtime symposium titled “Meeting Again at the Crossroads: Social Work and Public Health.” The Public Health Management Corporation in Philadelphia, Pa., shared data during National Public Health Week to give a snapshot of the health status of Southeastern Pennsylvania. Considering almost a third of the population has high blood pressure, the organization’s president issued a call for action about the value of prevention. ![Figure58](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F58.medium.gif) [Figure58](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F58) In Mansfield, Ohio, the health Department honored two organizations as part of its annual awards program. The Chester County Health Department in West Chester, Pa., partnered with St. Paul’s Baptist Church to offer free HIV testing and other screenings during a National Public Health Week health and wellness fair. The fair also featured information on emergency preparedness, smoking cessation and West Nile virus. The health department hosted Public Health Merit Badge Night for Chester County Boy Scout troops, who attended a presentation and visited several hands-on public health booths. Other health department events included a healthy photo contest for teens, a drawing contest for fourth-graders, a food drive and a project with West Chester University and the Borough of West Chester to help residents learn how to reduce the mosquito population and lower West Nile virus risk. The Anderson County Health Department in Clinton, Tenn., hosted several community outreach programs during National Public Health Week. Those included walking events, free body mass index and blood pressure screenings and distribution of mini garden growing kits to low-income mothers. The Shelby County Health Department in Memphis, Tenn., focused National Public Health Week activities around encouraging physical activity and healthy eating. In collaboration with the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, the health department offered an exercise option at noon each day, including yoga, Tai Chi, hip-hop aerobics and fitness boot camp. A Friday farmers market sold fresh, local produce. ![Figure59](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F59.medium.gif) [Figure59](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F59) Philadelphia’s Jefferson School of Population Health celebrated National Public Health Week with a lunchtime symposium. Undergraduate and graduate students from Tennessee State University’s Department of Public Health, Health Care Administration and Health Sciences teamed up with area community health agencies in Nashville, Tenn., to present an informational program on adolescent sexuality. The free National Public Health Week program was followed by a question and answer session with public health advocates. Tennessee State University’s Health Administration and Health Sciences Student Organization in Nashville, Tenn., showed a free, 30-minute film on April 3 of National Public Health Week. The film, an installment of the Children’s Health Crisis series, was produced in Nashville and featured local agencies highlighting the problem of teen pregnancy. The Texas A&M University School of Rural Public Health in College Station, Texas, celebrated National Public Health Week with a variety of activities. Just prior to the week, a presentation sponsored by the Office of Special Programs focused on rural health policy. To officially kick off National Public Health Week on April 1, College Station Mayor Nancy Berry and Bryan City Council Member Greg Owens came to the school’s administration building lobby to present a signed proclamation declaring National Public Health Week. The event was followed by a lunch and learn lecture on “A Tour with the Epidemic Intelligence Service: Stories from the Field.” The school’s 10th annual golf tournament on April 2 concluded with a hole-in-one contest. Wednesday’s events were a blood drive and announcement of the winners of the student research poster competition. All research posters were on display throughout National Public Health Week. Saturday featured the sixth annual pet-friendly 5K Fun Run-3K Walk, with Texas A&M mascot Reveille available for photos after the race. Students enjoyed a Kentucky Derby theme at the Annual Spring Student Gala Saturday night at the Kyle House. The University of North Texas Health Science Center in Fort Worth, Texas, hosted the sixth annual North Texas Health Forum during National Public Health Week with a 2013 theme of “Childhood Obesity: Accomplishments and Challenges.” The forum aimed to inform the community about successful initiatives in childhood obesity prevention and the potential for improvement and next steps for Fort Worth and Tarrant County. ![Figure60](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F60.medium.gif) [Figure60](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F60) The City of West Allis Health Department in West Allis, Wis., celebrates its public health accreditation. The department was one of 11 nationwide to receive accreditation recently. In Galveston, Texas, the University of Texas Medical Branch Department of Preventive Medicine & Community Health held its third annual National Public Health Week Symposium poster session and competition, with a keynote address on “Public Health is ROI: Evidence, Experience and Remaining Questions to Answer.” The San Patricio County Department of Public Health in Sinton, Texas, hosted two National Public Health Week community education programs at the health department and the San Patricio County Courthouse. Led by the health department’s Community-Based Program and WIC Project 51, the events featured educational information on the five daily National Public Health Week sub-themes, as well as food safety, nutrition and physical activity. Participants could take advantage of a healthy recipe sample, emergency document bags, aprons, exercise stretch bands, pill boxes and meat thermometers. The Waco-McLennan County Public Health District in Waco, Texas, held a community wellness fair during National Public Health Week that included a health discussion panel and healthy food and fitness demonstrations. The Alzheimer’s Association in Washington, D.C., held an April 4 webinar during National Public Health Week to draw attention to the return on investment provided through early detection and diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. The webinar highlighted the fact that early detection improves quality of life for those living with the disease and can reduce costs through better management of co-occurring chronic conditions. ![Figure61](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F61.medium.gif) [Figure61](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F61) The University of Texas Medical Branch held its third annual National Public Health Week Symposium poster session. During the webinar, participants learned why early detection offers a good return on investment, how surveillance and Healthy People 2020 are important to the efforts to increase early diagnosis and about the Texas Department of State Health Services’ efforts to improve Alzheimer’s diagnosis. The George Washington University in Washington, D.C., hosted a National Public Health Week discussion on gun violence. Experts in community health, psychiatry, gun policy research and family health led discussions. Speakers included APHA Executive Director Georges Benjamin, MD, and professors from the George Washington University and Johns Hopkins University touched on topics such as the effect of violence on children, the preventable nature of gun violence and the need for improved gun control laws. ![Figure62](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F62.medium.gif) [Figure62](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F62) The Texas A&M University School of Rural Public Health in College Station, Texas, hosted a National Public Health Week Fun Run, among its many public health events. At Sheboygan County Health and Human Services in Sheboygan, Wis., Liz Abler, RN, a public health nurse and member of the Healthy Sheboygan County 2020 Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Committee, contributed to a front-page newspaper article published in the *Sheboygan Press* during National Public Health Week about the importance of taking preventive steps that lead to better health. The committee also held its monthly meeting during National Public Health Week and continued its work to enhance evidence-based prevention programming, gauge youth prevention efforts and more to address alcohol and drug abuse in the county. The City of West Allis Health Department in West Allis, Wis., hosted an accreditation plaque unveiling during National Public Health Week to celebrate being accredited through the Public Health Accreditation Board. Visitors were welcomed by a “Public Health is ROI” bulletin board in the health department lobby that showcased return on investment, and displays throughout the clinic showcased innovative programs. ## Jefferson County, Colo., honors its local public health heroes In Jefferson County, Colo., National Public Health Week celebrations included a Public Health Champions Luncheon with the theme “Healthy People, Healthy Places — Public Health Saves Lives, Saves Money.” The event marked the 16th annual luncheon honoring some of the many people Jefferson County Public Health works with to help make the county healthier. ![Figure63](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F63.medium.gif) [Figure63](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F63) Ron DiDonato, center, is honored by Jefferson County commissioners for his work protecting groundwater. “While they may not have made public health their profession, the work they do, the partnerships they provide and their enthusiasm for protecting the health of Jefferson County residents makes them the 2012 Public Health Champions of the year,” said Nancy Braden, public information officer for Jefferson County Public Health. The 2012 winners, celebrated during the 2013 luncheon, included a local children’s advocate who worked to prevent childhood hunger and poverty, a school health services director honored for helping prevent pertussis and other vaccine-preventable diseases among schoolchildren and members of a coalition promoting tobacco-free air. The award ceremony was hosted by Jefferson County Public Health, the Jefferson County Board of Health and the Jefferson County Board of County Commissioners. A video posted on the Jefferson County Public Health YouTube channel celebrated the 2012 Public Health Champions and also gave an overview of important public health functions. Those included educating and empowering people about health issues, fighting communicable disease, monitoring health status to identify and solve community health problems and mobilizing community partnerships. Jefferson County Public Health, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and local public health departments also displayed a poster throughout National Public Health Week promoting “Healthy People, Healthy Places.” The poster depicted a tree surrounded by public health-related words such as clean air, immunizations, safe neighborhoods, healthy food, education and affordable housing. ## Signs along trail in Carson City, Nev., highlight public health Carson City Health and Human Services in Carson City, Nev., celebrated National Public Health Week by promoting a “Trail to Good Health” theme. The week’s activities were a result of collaboration between Carson City Health and Human Services and the Parks and Recreation Department. On a one-mile stretch of the Freeway Multi-use Path from Northridge Drive to College Parkway in Carson City, signs displayed during National Public Health Week featured facts about public health as well as ways residents can improve their own health and the health of the community. ![Figure64](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F64.medium.gif) [Figure64](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F64) Signs on display near a trail in Carson City, Nev., during National Public Health Week feature public health facts and ideas for ways residents can improve their health. The project was based on the Medical Mile greenway in Arkansas, where a health museum is located along a one-mile trail in the heart of downtown Little Rock along the Arkansas River. The Carson City trail project offered an opportunity to promote walking and public health, according to public health officials. “The hope for this project is not only that community members will see the signs and think about all the different aspects of public health, but also that citizens will be encouraged to get out and walk the trail,” Carson City Health and Human Services officials said in a National Public Health Week news release. Health officials aimed the project both at regular trail users and community members. In addition to the trail project, the health department ran an internal contest each day of National Public Health Week with a trivia question about facts displayed on the trail signs. Health department employees had good participation, with some divisions reporting 100 percent of employees walking the trail at some point during National Public Health Week. Each day of National Public Health Week focused on a different theme, including healthy homes, workplaces and communities. In cooperation with the daily *Nevada Appeal* newspaper, daily articles on each of the National Public Health week themes were published in the paper and the online edition. While the Carson City Health and Human Services normally runs an article in the paper each Wednesday, National Public Health Week offered an opportunity to include additional articles and have an active social media presence. ## University of California, Irvine, shows how public health is ROI Highlighting diabetes awareness, the importance of community-based health efforts, emergency preparedness and more, the Public Health Association at the University of California, Irvine, hosted a range of National Public Health Week events in Irvine, Calif., that took the theme of “Public Health is ROI: Save Lives, Save Money” and applied the return on investment lesson to daily outreach. On April 1, students focused on emergency preparedness by handing out checklists on how to stock various emergency kits. Those included a kit for the car, one for the home, one for long-distance travel and one for wilderness preparedness. Tuesday’s focus was health justice. Public Health Association members staffed a health justice booth in front of the campus student services building and highlighted ways students can create positive, sustainable health changes in their communities. On April 3, Public Health Association members once again staffed a booth in front of the campus student services building, this time promoting ways to affect sustainable change by recycling. The main event for Thursday of National Public Health Week was a mock case interview training class led by a health consultant from a local financial company and a strategist from the Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System. To give a visual impact of how public health can affect people’s lives, the Public Health Association held a screening of the movie “Contagion” on Friday of National Public Health Week. ![Figure65](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F65.medium.gif) [Figure65](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F65) Students at the University of California, Irvine, hand out information on emergency preparedness and creating emergency kits during National Public Health Week. Photo courtesy Public Health Association, University of California, Irvine The Public Health Association wrapped up National Public Health Week on April 6, with Tiyya Foundation Family Day. Members of the Public Health Association met with families of the Tiyya Foundation at the Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area — a state park with five miles of trails, a fishing lake and lotus pond — for a picnic and play time. The foundation provides basic necessities for refugees and displaced American families. Efforts also go beyond food, shelter and health care to give refugee children a chance to play soccer, for example, and creative writing sessions as a platform for expression. The foundation also hosts art workshops for youth and sends volunteer mentors to give personalized guidance and support to refugees and recent immigrants. The Public Health Association’s goal during National Public Health Week was “to spread knowledge about various benefits associated with caring for your health now rather than later,” said Michelle Guan, chair of the Public Health Association. ## National Public Health Week events in Irvine, Calif., turn guns into art Drawing attention to the problem of violence, two National Public Health Week events in Irvine, Calif., during National Public Health Week encouraged peace and healthy lifestyles. During the 19th annual Peace Day on April 1, sponsored by the International Health & Epidemiology Research Center in Sherman Oaks, Calif., children had the opportunity to voluntarily turn in toy guns and violent video games in exchange for certificates and awards. ![Figure66](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F66.medium.gif) [Figure66](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F66) Children turn in toy guns and violent video games during an event in Irvine, Calif. Children who did not own a toy gun were encouraged to draw or write something about healthy attitudes, nonviolence and peace and also received certificates. The goal of the day is to educate, raise awareness and inform children and youth about violence, especially gun violence. “We believe strongly that we can be healthy — physically, mentally and emotionally — and in a good state of well-being only if we live in an environment with no violence, no injury and no fear,” said APHA member Farideh Kioumehr, DrPH, DVM, MPH, founder and executive director of the International Health & Epidemiology Research Center. “And by preventing injury and death, we can save millions, even billions, of dollars.” The center works to reduce and eventually eliminate gun deaths and gun-related injuries, to promote safety awareness and to create a healthier, safer, violence-free and injury-free America and world. ![Figure67](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F67.medium.gif) [Figure67](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F67) A piece by artist Farzad Kohan is featured in an art show aimed at educating about gun violence during an event that coincided with National Public Health Week. Concerned artists used the thousands of toy guns and other toy weapons collected from children during Peace Day to create pieces of art that communicated peace messages. More than 50 such pieces of art made up the “Replacing Violence With Art” exhibit that attracted hundreds of visitors during and after National Public Health Week. The art was on display April 6-11 in Seyhoun Gallery in West Hollywood, Calif. Featured artwork included one with hands, each holding a weapon, beneath a dove and a crying eye. In another, a stick figure was pushing over a gigantic gun. The artwork carried such titles as “Men Made Guns, But Guns Do Not Make a Man” and “Peace, Not War.” The goal, Kioumehr said, was “to educate and raise awareness, through art, and to spread the message of the dangers of gun violence using a peaceful and creative medium.” Also during National Public Health Week, the International Health & Epidemiology Research Center held 23 presentations for parent and teacher organizations in schools in Los Angeles, Northridge and Panorama City. “In this time of gun violence — tragedy after tragedy — we really need to do something essential and use workable solutions for gun violence in this country,” Kioumehr said. ## News releases in La Crosse, Wis., highlight the work of public health At the La Crosse County Health Department in La Crosse, Wis., staff members stimulated local interest in National Public Health Week with a series of news releases on issues such as home safety, tobacco cessation, mosquito and tick awareness, physical fitness and healthy eating. The news release for Monday of National Public Health Week focused on the health effects of radon and the importance of home testing. The release also listed information on local companies that conduct home testing. Tuesday of National Public Health Week, the La Crosse County Health Department news release focused on tobacco products other than cigarettes and how those products, such as small pouches, dissolvable tobacco products and electronic cigarettes, are targeted to youth. That day’s news release also highlighted the “7 C’s” Health Initiative. The initiative works to improve health of residents in the counties of Buffalo, Trempealeau, Jackson, Monroe, La Crosse, Vernon and Crawford “so that they may live long, healthy lives, free from tobacco and nicotine regardless of their income, education or ethnic background,” according to the initiative. Community-based efforts include pressing for tobacco-free apartment complexes. The news release for Wednesday of National Public Health Week focused on the La Crosse Area Family YMCA and the organization’s aim to provide local businesses with the resources and support to encourage employees to live healthier. The lifestyle focus areas are physical activity, healthy eating, helping individuals be substance-free and incorporating good mental health practices. The news release for Thursday of National Public Health Week reminded people that tick and mosquito activity would soon begin and focused on protection information. Mosquitoes are linked to West Nile virus, and ticks can spread a variety of illnesses, including Lyme disease. Prevention tips include using DEET insect repellant and avoiding outdoor activity at dusk, if possible, and checking clothing and skin for ticks after outdoor activity. The Friday news release captured the overall message of National Public Health Week by encouraging everyone to empower a healthy community by investing in public health. The news releases caught media attention. The local ABC news affiliate, WXOW News Channel 19, ran segments on radon, other tobacco products and mosquito and tick awareness. *The La Crosse Tribune* published an article on the work being done by the La Crosse County Health Department’s Vector Control Unit and included information about reducing the risk of mosquito- and tick-borne illness. ## University of Maine nursing students spread health message via lessons in local schools The University of Maine School of Nursing in Orono, Maine, celebrated National Public Health Week with student-led activities that included teaching proper oral care to children, promoting healthy food and exercise and demonstrating what can happen when people send text messages while driving. Before National Public Health Week, senior year nursing students formed groups to assess communities and work together with agencies, schools and the university to plan need-based interventions. The nursing students then held community-based activities across the state. This year’s activities included teaching toothbrushing and flossing to children in a rural elementary school and collaborating with a school nurse, teachers and staff to provide healthy eating and exercise demonstrations. The healthy food choices included garbanzo beans, broccoli, tomatoes and kidney beans. ![Figure68](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F68.medium.gif) [Figure68](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F68) University of Maine School of Nursing students demonstrate activities that can distract drivers behind the wheel during an activity for students in health classes at a local high school. Nursing students planned a number of activities across the state to coincide with National Public Health Week. University students gave a presentation to more than 400 high school students on expanding knowledge and access to sexual education. Others promoted safe driving without distraction to first-year college students by staging a mock accident with help from the University of Maine ambulance team. Another activity was an interactive presentation — taught with the use of a video game — on texting while driving in all health classes at a local high school. Another group taught kids how to read food labels and the importance of knowing what to eat to stay healthy. The activities focusing on distracted driving had students demonstrating some of the ways people can be unfocused behind the wheel. Distractions include eating, checking text messages and listening to music. They also assisted an accident victim hurt during a mock crash resulting from texting and driving. One group of nursing students developed and taught a class session on nutrition and physical health awareness for high school seniors transitioning to adult life. Another group provided a variety of foods to community families with children and then led a session on making healthy, low-cost meals. All of the nursing student groups designed posters and presented their projects during a symposium at the fourth annual University of Maine Center for Undergraduate Research and Academic Showcase. ## Macomb County, Mich., reaches out to community The Macomb County Health Department in Mt. Clemens, Mich., celebrated National Public Health Week with activities that highlighted the benefits of public health and focused on healthy and safe homes, a healthy workplace, motor vehicle safety and the importance of regular exercise. The 2013 activities kicked off with a news conference at the Macomb County Health Department. County and health department officials, as well as a program development planner and a health educator, spoke about the benefits of public health. To bring a focus on healthy and safe homes, the health department conducted two household hazardous waste collections, one on April 1, and the second on April 5. More than 150 participants dropped off hazardous waste such as outdated medications, fluorescent lights and automobile solvents. The health department also delivered “healthy home” posters to all libraries and more than 50 community and for-profit sites such as hardware stores and other businesses in Macomb County. ![Figure69](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F69.medium.gif) [Figure69](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F69) Parents learn to properly install child safety seats in Macomb County, Mich. Photo courtesy Maria Swiatkowski, Macomb County Health Department Nutritionists from the Macomb County Health Department provided “lunch and learn” sessions on weight loss and nutrition myths for county employees at several locations. More than 70 employees participated. On April 4, the Macomb County Health Department partnered with the Macomb County Safe Kids Coalition to host a free car seat inspection at the Babies “R” Us in Roseville, Mich. Fifteen certified child passenger safety technicians and instructors inspected 54 child seats during the event. Eighty-eight percent of those child seats were being used incorrectly before the inspection. Each parent also had a chance to view the “kids in hot cars” display that featured a thermometer placed in an empty vehicle with an outdoor and inside-the-vehicle display. On the day of the demonstration, it was 61 degrees outside but more than 106 degrees inside the vehicle. On Friday of National Public Health Week, 35 Macomb County employees met at two locations during their lunch hour for 30-minute walks to promote physical activity and a healthy workplace. The Lake St. Clair Metropark Nature Center also hosted a noon to 3 p.m. walk with a naturalist for residents to see spotted owls, and participants were encouraged to get out and be active for at least 30 minutes with their children. ## Connecticut public health group reaches out to students Using “Public Health Starts Here” wristbands to spread its message, the Connecticut Public Health Association reached 500 educators and students in sixth grade through community college during National Public Health Week with classroom and workplace experiences. The idea behind the association’s Mentoring Organization Registry is to prepare people for higher education, volunteerism and careers in public health. National Public Health Week offered a chance to take the mentoring mission to area high schools and the state capitol. The mentoring registry started its efforts in February by connecting members to schools that had requested speakers. By April, the registry had updated its website with new activities and tools for teaching public health events for National Public Health Week and a lesson to use with the Connecticut Public Health Association’s wristbands. Students in Bridgeport and New Haven high schools, for example, were treated to lessons from a representative of the Southwest Area Health Education Center. Public health presenters with the mentoring registry distributed 200 wristbands to students in schools from Manchester to Waterbury. The high schoolers switched the wristband from one wrist to the other with each public health activity they completed, then shared their experiences. A priority of both the association and the Mentoring Organization Registry has been to teach students the skills and passion to advocate for public health. Just before National Public Health Week, students from the Connecticut River Academy, an environmental science magnet school in East Hartford, Conn., attended the association’s Advocacy Day at the state Capitol. Students learned how to meet with lawmakers and how public health affects issues such as gun violence and tanning bed use. Students in Connecticut’s first full-year high school “Public Health 101” class celebrated National Public Health Week by creating original podcasts and distributing wristbands with guidance from a public health mentor and their teacher. The class is being piloted this year at New Haven’s Metropolitan Business Academy. Also during National Public Health Week, 50 Danbury-area high school health career interns, none of whom previously were considering a public health career, attended a panel on public health in Newtown, Conn. The president-elect of the Connecticut Public Health Association explained differences between public health and health care and how the two disciplines intersect. A local health director also used Hurricane Sandy to illustrate the public health role in disaster recovery. And a representative from the local Planned Parenthood described the critical link between public policy and delivery of reproductive health care. A discussion with the students focused on career possibilities with dual degrees in public health and health care. The Connecticut Public Health Association plans to reach out to more students in the coming year as two additional high schools adopt the “Public Health 101” class and experiential learning graduation requirements expand throughout the state. The work relied on a partnership among representatives of the public health association, the University of Connecticut Graduate School of Public Health, the Yale New Haven Health System, local schools and others. ## Smoothies and a movie from Maryland public health students The Student Section of the Maryland Public Health Association in Baltimore, Md., coordinated and participated in a variety of events to celebrate National Public Health Week, from a fruit smoothie fundraiser to a tree planting to a screening of a film on the nation’s health system. On Thursday of National Public Health Week, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy students hosted the fruit smoothie fundraiser. The idea was to encourage students to spend a few dollars on a healthy alternative to soda. That evening, the Student Section of the Maryland Public Health Association partnered with the Maryland Public Health Association to host a screening of the documentary “Escape Fire: The Fight to Rescue American Healthcare.” The film highlights many of the faults of the American health system, including the fact that the system focuses on disease management rather than prevention. Possible solutions include workplace programs that encourage healthy behaviors and a military pain management task force examining alternatives to prescription narcotics as pain treatment. ![Figure70](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F70.medium.gif) [Figure70](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F70) Maryland pharmacy students attend a farmers market in Baltimore on April 7. On Saturday of National Public Health Week, pharmacy students planned a trip to the Baltimore Orchard Project and invited public health students from Morgan State University and Johns Hopkins University to join in. The orchard project aims to grow, harvest and give away fresh, local fruit to underserved neighborhoods in Baltimore. During the trip, students volunteered by clearing a plot of land for the future planting of fruit trees. On Sunday, April 7, the Baltimore Farmers Market and Bazaar opened for business in the city for the first time this season. Students gathered to visit the market’s opening day. ## Community fair and photo contest featured during Oregon events At Oregon State University in Corvallis, Ore., the College of Public Health and Human Sciences’ Public Health Club hosted a Healthy Community Fair and a photo contest to celebrate National Public Health Week. The fair, held on the campus Memorial Union quad, featured booths staffed by groups such as the motorcycle safety program Team Oregon, the Oregon State University chapter of the national group Students With Diabetes, the Public Health Club and the International Club. Community groups on hand during the event included the Heartland Humane Society, Corvallis Parks and Recreation and the Valley AIDS Information Network. ![Figure71](http://www.thenationshealth.org/http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/nathealth/43/5/19/F71.medium.gif) [Figure71](http://www.thenationshealth.org/content/43/5/19/F71) Oregon State University’s public health club hosts a community health fair to bring attention to healthy activities. “It was a great way for people to see all the neat ways to be involved on campus and in the community,” said Nastassia Donoho, a student and club member. All week, the club held a photo contest aligned with the theme of “Protecting You While You’re on the Move.” Students and community members could submit a photo of themselves performing a healthy activity to the club’s Facebook page. “We think the photo contest encouraged people to be aware of how you can easily be healthy and active in your community, that you don’t have to drive 30 miles to go hike up a mountain,” Donoho said. Public Health Club members selected the top three photos and then let the public vote for the winning photo. A photo of public health student Sesha Birns practicing a yoga headstand in a fern-carpeted forest won first place. Other top photos included a student on a hike, a group of students finishing a run and a student walking and picking cherries. The club held its events the week after National Public Health Week due to students being on spring break the first week in April. * Copyright The Nation’s Health, American Public Health Association