Healthcare Supplement - August 2012

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HEALTH, WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT / August 2012 H-1

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Back-to-School Supply Must Have

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By Dr. Saul Levine, MD, MPA

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lmost one million children in the United States live without the benefits of recommended immunizations and regular primary care health services. Immunizations are one of the most effective disease-prevention tools available today.

With the start of the school year just two weeks away it seems that parents, kids, clothing stores, office supply stores and every other kind of retail outlet is in back-toschool mode. Wherever you look ads on the TV, radio and in the paper are reminding us about the need for new essentials such as backpacks, notebooks, fall fashions and even snacks for school. There is one essential that is easy to forget about but is no less important. Even though you won’t find it at the mall with the rest of the school supplies, it’s something every child, regardless of whether they go to public, private or parochial school needs - up to date vaccinations.

Every child in the District of Columbia must have all of their required vaccines, or often called immunizations, in order to attend school. A vaccine is a shot that provides protection from specific diseases. Some vaccines require only one shot to be effective, others require second or third shots, called “boosters” to fully protect children. These vaccines are required for a good reason - to protect all children from getting or spreading serious diseases that have the potential to have your child miss significant amounts of school and get lots of their schoolmates sick. Some of these diseases are even potentially fatal.

In 2010, the Healthy Schools Act was signed into law. This law requires that all students attending prekindergarten through grade 12 have an annual physical examination. This examination should cover all items required for the child’s age group.

Over the past few decades vaccines have been very effective at stopping diseases. Because we do not see these illnesses very often, it can be easy for us to forget how serious diseases like measles, mumps and polio can be. Records show that some diseases, like measles and the chicken pox, are starting to comeback as the number of children getting vaccines in some school districts has dropped. In order to stop the spread of these diseases some school districts have had to close schools for a period of time to protect the entire school community.

This takes away essential time in the classroom and is hard on parents who have to find childcare when school is suddenly closed.

The return of these diseases makes it clear that parents cannot assume that their child is protected because their child’s friends have all been vaccinated. The only way to guarantee your child’s safety is by taking them to the doctor and getting them vaccinated. Parents should also not assume that because their child had up to date vaccines last year, that they are ready for this school year. Students in middle school and high school require additional vaccines to the ones they had in elementary school, some vaccines a child has already had may need a “booster” after a few years for full protection.

Fortunately for parents, most required vaccines are covered by insurance and are available at doctor’s offices. If a child’s doctor or insurance does not provide these vaccines the federal Vaccines for Children program will provide these essential shots at no cost. Thanks to this program, every child has access to this important item for back to school and for life. Parents should not wait to make an appointment with the doctor for annual physical and vaccine checkup. It will guarantee their children are armed with the most important school supply they could have – their health.

Misty Brown, Eve Ferguson, Joy FreemanCoulbary, Gale Horton Gay, Barrington Salmon, Stacey Palmer , Charles E. Sutton ,James Wright, Joseph Young

Dr. Levin is the Interim Director of the District of Columbia Department of Health. To find out more about required vaccines and the Vaccines for Children program parents or guardians should call the DC Department of Health at 311 or visit www.doh.dc.gov.

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For a complete listing of this year’s Back-to-School Immunization requirements visit doh.dc.gov

H-2 August 2012 / HEALTH, WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT

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By James Wright WI Staff Writer

host of educational studies show that children learn better when they’re healthy. That’s when the three R’s – reading, ’riting and ’rithmetic become fun and learning turns into a lifelong adventure.

While most young people get vaccinated for the school year, often that’s where the monitoring of health stops, with the exception of visiting the nurse’s office for a minor cut or infection. However, children need a comprehensive medical examination which should include a visit to an ophthalmologist.

“Children should have an eye exam before kindergarten or first grade by an ophthalmologist,” said Dr. Shirley Middleton, an ophthalmologist who has a practice in Northwest. “They [parents] should not depend on school nurses because those tests may not be reliable and often do not detect problems.”

Middleton, a graduate of the Howard University College of Medicine in Northwest, said that parents should monitor their child’s vision constantly.

“Parents should observe their child’s visual behavior, whether their eyes are straight, if there is a muscle imbalance or if they squint,” she said. “Also, parents should be concerned if their child’s eyes tear. If one of their child’s eyes is more prominent than the other and if a child squints or sits too close to the television, an eye professional should be contacted.”

For children who play sports, Middleton recommends that they wear protective goggles which can be fitted with their prescription.

“I would not recommend that young children wear contact lenses because of hygiene issues,” she said.

Children are being educated by computer terminals more than ever and Middleton has advice concerning the matter.

“Children should be careful not to sit too close to the monitor and they should relax their eyes frequently to prevent eye fatigue,” the doctor said.

She also recommends that children’s eyes be examined annually and every two years for teenagers.

Other parts of a child’s body that affect learning are the ears, nose and throat. Those should be examined annually as well, said Dr. Anita Jackson, an otolaryngologist who practices in

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“Children should be healthy as can be so they can learn as much as possible,” Raleigh, N.C. “It is a doctor’s job to help a child stay safe and healthy,” said Jackson, 45. “Having healthy ear, nose and throat helps prevent sinuses that are adverse to a child’s health.”

Jackson, a graduate of the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Chicago, said that the best way to keep a child’s ears healthy is to keep the nose clean.

“Many children suffer from chronic sinuses and keeping the nose healthy can prevent middle ear infection,” she said.

Sore throats in children are caused by unhealthy germs, Jackson said. She recommends that parents teach their children to cover their mouths when coughing.

Dental health is also a vital part of keeping a child focused and enthusiastic about learning.

The Colgate Oral and Dental Health Resource Center in New York City recommends that children brush twice daily with fluoridated water, floss daily to prevent plaque from building up on teeth and scheduling dental appointments once a year, at a minimum.

Middleton, Jackson and the Colgate Resource Center recommend that children eat healthy, well-balanced meals that include plenty of fruits, vegetables and high protein foods such as bran cereal and sweet potatoes. All three highly discourage sugary drinks and sweets.

“Children should be healthy as can be so they can learn as much as possible,” Jackson said.

Healthy Children Make Better Students

DON’T WAIT

Protect Yourself Protect Others

VACCINATE • Know if your child is up-to-date on his/ her vaccinations.

• Make sure your child receives an annual physical and dental exam.

• Return your child’s universal health and dental certificate to the school nurse.

• Every child in the District must have all required vaccines.

DON’T WAIT

Protect Yourself Protect Others

VACCINATE For more information please call our Citywide Call Center by dialing

www.doh.dc.gov

311

HEALTH, WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT / August 2012 H-3

“This year’s substance abuse programs will begin to highlight new synthetic drugs, like K2 [or] Spice that are on the rise among District youth. said Dr. Saul Levin, M.D., the interim director of the D.C Department of Health [DOH].

By Joy Freeman-Coulbary WI Contributing Writer The D.C. Department of Health and D.C. Public Schools have joined forces to combat substance abuse and new drug threats in the city’s public schools.

Although District public school students are not more likely on average to abuse drugs than their peers nationwide, District youth are about three percent more likely to engage in marijuana usage before the age of 13.

For the upcoming 2012-2013 school year, the Department of Health and the school system are spearheading a bold new campaign to arrest substance abuse among District students.

“This year’s substance abuse programs will begin to highlight new synthetic drugs, like K2 [or] Spice that are on the rise among District youth. A citywide public education effort will be implemented to ensure prevention, early assessments and treatment on demand is available to all District residents,” said Dr. Saul Levin, M.D., the interim director of the D.C Department of Health [DOH].

“The first indication of success of this program has been the interagency coordination and leadership between the Metropolitan Police Department and District of Columbia Public Schools [DCPS],” he said.

The good news is that D.C. high school students are less likely than their peers in Maryland and Virginia to binge drink and engage in drinking while driving, said Judith Donovan, prevention services manager of DOH’s Addiction Prevention and Recovery Administration [APRA].

Additionally, District youth engage in cigarette smoking at significantly lower rates than their peers nationwide, with District students six percent less likely to have smoked cigarettes in the past 30 days, according to DOH’s 2011 “District of Columbia Community Prevention Assessment Pilot” study.

However, Dawn Adams who lives in Barry Farm in Southeast, said there’s a need to curb substance abuse among teenagers and young children.

“My son is nine, in elementary school, and some of his peers are already smoking weed.

I home test him regularly with tests I get from the dollar store, because I don’t know what he might pick up out here,” said Adams, 26, whose son attends a public school in Northeast.

“When I was at Malcolm X Elementary School, I started smoking cigarettes at nine and advanced to marijuana by 13, at Jefferson Junior High, having been influenced by older boys. So, I think the Department of Health’s campaign in District schools is a good thing. … I wouldn’t touch [marijuana]

D.C. Department of Health, DCPS Tackle Substance Abuse in Schools

now,” she said.

Parents aren’t the only ones who have zero tolerance.

“We will not be satisfied until we bring the rate of youth substance abuse to zero,” said Dr. Linda Wharton-Boyd, senior advisor to Levin.

The somber reality is that D.C. high school students, grades nine-12, are more likely to have smoked marijuana in the past 30 days than their peers nationwide, based on the 2011 pilot study.

According to the study, about 26 percent of District high school students have reported using marijuana during the past 30 days, compared to 23 percent of their peers in other states.

Of particular concern, are new and popular substances ripe for abuse that parents should be on the lookout for with the advent of the 2012-2013 school year. These include psychoactive designer drugs such as bath salts and synthetic marijuana, also known as K2 or Spice, which can cause hallucinations, psychosis and heart palpitations.

“We have a concern about D.C. youth abusing synthetic marijuana. There has also been an incremental uptick in the abuse of prescription drugs, which we’re monitoring” said Shaun Synder, senior deputy director of APRA. “We’re also concerned about teens and young people abusing bath salts,” he said.

In anticipation of the new school year, APRA is revamping

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its website to become more userfriendly and to make information about drug and alcohol abuse and treatment more accessible to both parents and students. Soon, APRA will be tweeting its antidrug message.

“We’re in the early stages of social media. We are renovating our website to include twitter, FB, Flickr, YouTube and LinkedIn accounts,” said Synder.

“DOH already has a twitter account. … Through a Quick Response code, District residents will be able to link their phones to APRA’s website to receive information.”

The Department of Health will be working with school nurses and counselors to achieve certain goals: substance abuse intervention and treatment in D.C. schools. “Early onset of drug and alcohol abuse can interfere with young, developing brains, encourage risky behavior, and be indicative of addiction, if there is a family history of such,” Donovan said.

APRA offers substance abuse treatment and recovery services to youth through its adolescent substance abuse programs.

The pilot study also highlights the Department of Health’s success under Mayor Vincent C. Gray in the area of substance abuse intervention, which includes work with school nurses to address the substance abuse needs of District students.

For the upcoming school year,

the Department of Health plans to distribute anti-drug information kits to teachers and school personnel.

District students struggling with addictions can seek help anonymously through the Department of Health, without parental consent, Synder said.

“Parents can also seek out intervention services for their children through our website.”

For more information about the Department of Health substance abuse intervention programs, visit doh. dc.gov/apra or call (202) 727-8857.

D.C. Prevention Centers Wards 1&2 1419 Columbia Road, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20009 (202) 319-2259 Director Mark Robinson Wards 3&4 5335 Wisconsin Avenue, N.W. Washington, DC 20011 (202) 686-4850 Director: Nadine Parker Ward 5&6 1022 Maryland Ave., N.E. Washington, DC 20002 (202) 543-5796 Director: Charles Dark Ward 7&8 3939 Benning Road N.E. Washington, DC 20019 (202) 388-3001 Director: Rosalind Parker

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District of Columbia Immunization Requirements1 School Year 2012 – 2013 All students attending school in the District of Columbia must present proof of appropriately spaced immunizations by the first day of school.

A Child 2 years or older entering Preschool or Head Start

4 3 1 1 3 2 3 4

Diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertussis (DTaP) Polio Varicella (chickenpox) – if no history of disease2 Measles, Mumps & Rubella (MMR) Hepatitis B Hepatitis A or 4 Hib (Haemophilus Influenza Type B) 3 PCV (Pneumococcal)

A student 4 years old entering Pre-Kindergarten

5 4 2 2 3 2 3 4

Diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertussis (DTaP) Polio Varicella (chickenpox) – if no history of disease2 Measles, Mumps & Rubella (MMR) Hepatitis B Hepatitis A or 4 Hib (Haemophilus Influenza Type B) 3 PCV (Pneumococcal)

5 4 2 2 3 2

A student 5 – 10 years old entering Kindergarten thru Fifth Grade

A student 11 years & older entering Sixth thru Twelfth Grade

5 1 4 2 2 3 1 3

Diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertussis (DTaP) Polio Varicella (chickenpox) – if no history of disease2 Measles, Mumps & Rubella (MMR) Hepatitis B Hepatitis A (if born on or after 01/01/05)

Diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertussis (DTaP/Td) Tdap (if five years since last dose of DTP/DTaP/Td) Polio Varicella (chickenpox) – if no history of disease2 Measles, Mumps & Rubella (MMR) Hepatitis B Meningococcal Human Papillomavirus Vaccine (HPV) – Females in grades 6 thru 9 or parent may sign approved vaccine refusal form available at www.doh.dc.gov

1

At all ages and grades, the number of doses required varies by a child’s age and how long ago they were vaccinated. Please check with your child’s school nurse or health care provider for details.

2

All Varicella/chickenpox disease histories MUST be verified/diagnosed by a health care provider (MD, NP, PA, RN) and documentation MUST include the month and year of disease.

3 The

number of doses is determined by brand used.

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HEALTH, WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT / August 2012 H-5

Helping Students Cope Helping First Day of School Jitters

By Dorothy Rowley WI Staff Writer While young children attending school for the first time can suffer parental separation anxiety, students returning to school after summer break can be as fearful of their surroundings as they are about fitting in.

“These can be daunting tasks to accomplish and we try to make the transition easier by engaging our students in getting-to-knowyou activities that serve as icebreakers,” said Daniel Moses, 33, a teacher at Friendship Collegiate Academy in Northeast. “Most of the time, our freshmen students are nervous that they are not going to be accepted by certain groups

or they fear entering high school is going to be too much work. Overall, they have a lot going on and that’s where we come in, prioritizing students as a whole and giving them the opportunity to define themselves.”

Richard Trogeh, principal at the School Without Walls in Northwest, agreed. He said that’s why his students are required to participate in the Summer Bridge program – an initiative which was designed more than seven years ago by the District’s public school system to ease the transition from middle school to high school.

“For one thing we want them to come back ready to jump on their assignments,” said Trogeh.

“Since we’ve been doing Sum-

mer Bridge it’s been very effective easing students’ anxieties about coming back to school following summer break.”

Trogeh added that faculty members have noticed that students who participate in Summer Bridge do much better in terms of transitioning than their peers who don’t sign up for the two-to four-week program that is offered just prior to the start of the school year.

“It’s been something to help students stay on track, specifically ninth-graders who sometimes don’t make a smooth transition to high school,” Trogeh said of the program. “We also have a lot of students coming back from abroad, so we need them to make

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For many students, particularly those entering high school for the first time, returning to classes after the summer break can be filled with fear and anxiety. Courtesy Photo

friends and develop relationships.”

Ashley Reese, 21, a recent graduate of Howard University, said she often dealt with anxiety at the end of summer breaks. But it wasn’t until she spent her junior year studying in London, that she learned to deal with her back-toschool stresses.

“The transition surrounding my senior year went smoothly,” said Reese who’s taking a year off before enrolling in graduate school.

“During my time in London, I had to make some adjustments that kind of helped me out, [because] I hesitated to approach people on campus for help, I learned to reach out and embrace people more easily,” the San Diego, Calif., native said. “I also sought the advice of a campus counselor – probably much later than I should have – and that helped a lot. I would strongly recommend doing that because sometimes new students have a lot of problems relating to their professors.”

Otherwise, Reese suggests establishing a bond with roommates as quickly as possible and to get plenty of sleep.

“Take a nap whenever possible,” she said. “I did that a lot and it helped significantly [in] reducing stress.”

Meanwhile, it’s not unusual for parents of young children going to school for the first time to share their child’s anxiety of being separated for several hours.

Because the child may fear going into an environment where they don’t know anyone, emotions, such as tear-filled goodbyes, can easily crop up.

But it’s up to parents to assure their children that everything’s going to be just fine, and with that said, here are some suggestions for helping everyone feel better about the new journey that’s about to take place: Develop a positive attitude about your child going to school.

Children are very much attuned to the attitudes of their parents. If you are worried that your child is going to have a terrible first day of school, then your attitude is going to feed your child’s insecurities.

Talk about your happy school memories. Tell your child the things that you enjoyed about school. Even if school was not a pleasant experience for you, you likely had some things that you enjoyed, such as eating lunch with your friends.

Arrange a play date with a fellow student. If you are able to find out the names of some of the other children in your child’s class before school starts, call the parents and arrange a play date. Knowing another child in the class can go a long way toward alleviating your child’s fears.

Start adjusting to the school schedule at least one week before school begins. Many elementary schools start the day early, which can be a challenge for children who are used to sleeping in late.

For at least one week before school starts, wake your child at the time that they will need to get up for school.

Some information provided by Parents Magazine.

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Health Department Head Finds New Ways to Better Serve Prince George’s County

By Gale Horton Gay WI Staff Writer Ask Pamela B. Creekmur how many individuals the Prince George County Health Department serves and she won’t hesitate to say 900,000 – the entire population of the county. Ask her to be more specific and she’ll repeat the number.

From where she sits as head of the Prince George’s County Health Department [PGCHD], Creekmur said she and her staff of 550 touch practically every resident in one way or another. Disease control and prevention, swimming pool inspections, hazardous waste control, restaurant inspections, food service certification and septic system issues are among the vast terrain PGCHD covers.

“The health department does more than most people know,” said Creekmur.

Through 14 facilities throughout the county, the health department’s mission is to “protect the public’s health, assure availability of and access to quality health care services and promote individual and community responsibility for the prevention of disease, injury and disability.”

For the 2012-2013 fiscal year, the health department has a four-prong focus: access to health care, chronic disease, infant mortality and HIV and sexually transmitted diseases.

“It’s our season,” Creekmur said. “It’s going to take a lot of work, and we are happy to do it.”

And Creekmur said access to care is a critical issue because there’s an estimated 150,000 to 160,000 uninsured and underinsured persons in the county.

“Even with health reform, which is a great thing and I’m glad it was upheld [by the Supreme Court] … there’s still going to be a significant population uninsured,” Creekmur said.

Another looming problem – there aren’t enough physicians in the county to serve the entire population, particu-

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larly inside the Beltway.

“That number is less than what we absolutely need to meet the needs in our community,” she said. “We are looking at plans and strategies to deal with that issue as well.”

One promising plan that Creekmur supports is a state pilot incentive program to attractive more doctors. “We need innovative strategies to get physicians to come,” said Creekmur. “It is not an impossible feat.”

Raising awareness about the numerous programs and services in the county is one of the department’s priorities.

Creekmur, 52, who’s been heading the health department for nearly a year serving most of that time as the acting health officer, said she wasn’t fully aware of PGCHD’s depth until she investigated it as a viable career option.

“I’ve been a resident of Prince George’s County for 17 years. … I wasn’t aware of what the health department was involved in until [this] opportunity came my way. I was amazed at what is available, amazed at the opportunities,” said Creekmur.

In mid-July, the Prince George’s County Council approved County Executive Rushern L. Baker’s appointment of Creekmur as the permanent health officer.

“Pam has done an outstanding job as the acting health officer and has been making an undeniable mark on the progress of our health department,” said Baker. “She is a compassionate leader with an expansive health administration background.”

Creekmur has served as the medical center administrator for the Largo Medical Center, she was accountable for the overall management of a large multi-specialty medical center with more than 350 employees and physicians. She previously served as director of surgical services for the District of Columbia/Suburban Maryland region of Kaiser Permanente.

Creekmur, graduated from Howard University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in

nursing.

Currently, she is a candidate for a health care administration master’s degree from the University of Maryland University College.

She’s now responsible for overseeing the county’s network of health clinics and facilities and a $70 million budget.

Creekmur said she’s proud about a change that will take place around the end of this year throughout the health department – the conversion of all patient records from paper to electronic health records.

She said it will result in better coordination of care as well as more efficiency in providing services such as scheduling

and reporting.

She added that budget cuts over the years likely resulted in less promotion and marketing, however, now she and her staff have a new approach to ferret out new funding sources and find ways to be more efficient. Partnering is also one of the health department’s new strategies.

One example is an “at-aglance” guide that lists health department services. It hadn’t been widely distributed and needed updating. Creekmur said the guide is an excellent tool and plans call for it to be shared through print and electronic versions and an expansive network of partners.

One of their major efforts

Health& Wellness Services For Prince George’s County Residents Counseling, Testing and Treatment Services For Men, Women and Teens  Alcohol, drug, tobacco and other substance abuse  HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted diseases

has been the formation of a coalition to work on the issue of access to care and assisting in the implementation of the county’s 10-year health plan.

The coalition is comprised of individuals who represent health care groups, colleges, schools, and county departments such as parks and planning. The coalition’s steering committee is 43 members strong with approximately 100 others serving on four work groups.

“The beautiful thing is there’s a lot of energy all going in the right direction. We make sure that our resources are aligned with our priority areas,” Creekmur said.

Health Screenings For Adults  Breast, cervical and colorectal cancer  Cholesterol, diabetes and high blood pressure

Other Services  Dental care for pregnant women and children  Immunizations for children  Pregnancy testing and prenatal care for pregnant women  Free and low-cost health insurance for families with low incomes  WIC supplemental foods and nutrition education for women and children at nutritional risk  Classes and workshops on building healthy family relationships  Re-entry case management for male and female ex-offenders

For More Information Call Healthline at 1-888-561-4049 Pamela Creekmur Acting Health Officer

TTY/STS Dial 711 for Maryland Relay www.princegeorgescountymd.gov/health

HEALTH, WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT / August 2012 H-7

Well Fed

Moving Breastfeeding from Personal Choice to Public Health Issue

By Fia Curley With her first pregnancy 11 years ago, Sakia’Lynn Harris made some unusual choices. A student at a Historically Black University, Harris had planned her pregnancy, and was determined to nurse her first child exclusively for six months and continue breastfeeding him until age 2 – a rare goal then and now.

Although Harris was never given information about breastfeeding during her prenatal visits, she sought

out breastfeeding resources on her own, determined to achieve her goal. Despite a Caesarean-section delivery and the subsequent struggle to feed, Harris fought to follow her plan. She finally achieved her goal only after visiting a lactation consultant in a neighborhood Women, Infants, Children (WIC) office.

Now 33, Harris continues to remain ahead of the curve.

According to the 2011 Breastfeeding Report Card from the Centers for Disease Control and Pre-

vention, almost 82 percent of new moms have tried breastfeeding their children. Six months later about 60 percent of women are breastfeeding. However the number of moms who feed their children only breast milk for six months straight is about one in four.

Documented health benefits of breast milk include decreased risk of ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, obesity, asthma and sudden infant death syndrome in babies. Studies also show that women who breast-

A Healthy Baby Begins with You Help Stop Infant Mortality You Hold Your Baby’s Future in Your Hands

Tonya Lewis Lee Author and Producer

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H-8 August 2012 / HEALTH, WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT

Documented health benefits of breast milk include decreased risk of ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, obesity, asthma and sudden infant death syndrome in babies. Studies also show that women who breastfeed have a decreased risk of breast cancer. feed have a decreased risk of breast cancer.

As numerous medical studies have supported the health benefits of breast milk, legislation, community programs and growing public awareness continue to move breastfeeding away from being just an optional way of feeding a newborn toward the spotlight as a major public health concern.

Based on the statistics, it’s clear to many that the message is particularly needed in minority communities, which have drastically lower rates of breastfeeding, particularly in the category of only feeding babies breast milk for six consecutive months.

A little less than 60 percent ofblack babies are breastfed at least once. Twenty-eight percent of black babies receive some breast milk six months later, with only 8 percent being fed only breast milk at six months. Although breastfeeding rates within the United States have steadily increased during the past decade, disparities continue to exist, as many women face the challenge of questioning relatives who used formula to feed their own children, popular beliefs that the act of breastfeeding is inappropriate, a lack of social support and the historical aftereffects of family segmentation through slavery and regulations of government programming.

In 2011, the United States Breastfeeding Committee declared August to be National Breastfeeding Month, with the first week coinciding with World Breastfeeding Week.

The 19th U.S. Surgeon General Regina M. Benjamin, MD, MBA also issued an official Call to Action to Support Breastfeeding , inviting employers, family members, health professionals and grandparents to not only ease the stress of breastfeeding mothers but to encourage breastfeeding in support of a healthy nation. The Affordable Care Act expanded access to breastfeeding counseling, support and supplies without any cost-sharing, which began Aug. 1.

“It is a struggle, no matter what,” said Harris, whose fight to provide what she knew was right for her child led her to become an international board certified lactation

“Breastfeeding decisions are usually made and most successfully reached when [women] have prenatal education,” she said. “Moms who make it to six months make it because that was their goal from the beginning.”

The American Academy of Pediatrics agrees. The February 2012 edition of Pediatrics concluded that “infant feeding should not be considered as a lifestyle choice but rather as a basic health issue. As such, the pediatrician’s role in advocating and supporting proper breastfeeding practices is essential and vital for the achievement of this preferred public health goal.”

Nurse-Midwife and Founder of the Developing Families Center in the District of Columbia’s Ward 5, Dr. Ruth Lubic said not to discount the additional benefits, particularly the bond between mother and child.

“The emotional benefits of breastfeeding are very important,” Lubic said. “When I did midwifery in ’61 and ’62, nobody breastfed.”

But Lubic has seen a slight shift over the past several decades.

“There’s a real understanding that breastfeeding is important for the health of the mother and the health of the child,” she said.

Although breastfeeding rates have increased steadily, Harris still believes support is desperately needed for mothers, noting that most mothers she helps don’t always breastfeed exclusively. She has personally seen the number of women who want to breastfeed increase, but finds rigid work schedules, inadequate pumping locations, advice from physicians to occasionally use formula and the availability of free formula, can all derail goals.

Despite the challenges, Harris continues the mission of letting other mothers know that healthy breast milk is the best food for babies.

“Nobody ever asked me what my [breastfeeding] plans were,” Harris said. “So I do make it a point to ask—especially African-American and low-income women. I know it’s hard, but… they need to know they aren’t alone [because] sometimes when women breastfeed [they feel] alone in that quest.”

8/7/2012 2:45:30 PM

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Public-Private Partnerships Can Work

By Vincent A. Keane, President and CEO Unity Health Care Unity Health Care, Inc. (Unity) has provided inmate health services to the District’s correctional facilities since 2006. We also operate a network of 31 community health service sites throughout the District. Unity has cared for our most vulnerable residents for over 27 years, regardless of their ability to pay. Our team believes that everyone should receive high-quality, compassionate care. It is these values that compelled Unity to undertake the challenge of providing correctional health care nearly six years ago.

Prior to Unity’s successful partnership with the District’s Department of Corrections (DOC), healthcare services provided at

the city’s jails gained national attention for inadequate quality. The local media did an outstanding job of chronicling the questionable deaths, rampant infectious diseases, and threats of federal receivership that haunted inmate health services.

In response to this crisis, the District government took the bold step of authorizing an innovative model of correctional health care delivery: the Community Oriented Health Care Model. In this model, members of our community are able to see their same clinicians within the jail and after release.

This improves community health outcomes and eliminates one barrier for our returning citizens as they face the difficult task of rejoining the community.

Why does this model work?

Unity’s model is successful be-

cause our values are in seamless alignment with our community. As a community-based nonprofit, we do not have the potential moral hazards associated with shareholder enrichment. While we are good stewards of the District’s resources, Unity does not cut corners to increase profitability. In fact, Unity has voluntarily sustained more than $6 million in unexpected annual cuts to our contract to help the District government during recent fiscal challenges. Our model focuses on prevention and addresses one of the key determinants that impact an inmate’s successful reintegration into society: personal health and wellness. We know that many of the inmates in D.C. jails will return to our communities. Our job for nearly three decades has been to care for the people of this city.

The Unity and DOC collabora-

tion has succeeded because both entities share an unwavering commitment to the health and wellness of District inmates. Our model has resulted in a reduction in inmate grievances and lawsuits, increases in chronic disease management rates, a comprehensive HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment initiative, substantial reductions in the number of suicides, on-site specialty care including dialysis, and enhanced continuity of care.

Specifically, in the year prior to Unity providing care in the District’s jails, the DOC received 681 health care related grievances.

Unity has worked tirelessly to reduce grievances and in 2011 there were only 18.

With regard to managing chronic illnesses, with Unity’s support, 61%

of our population are controlling and effectively managing diabetes and 80% of the population within the DC Jails are controlling and managing high blood pressure.

These figures are much higher than the national Medicaid averages. In addition, our partnership has led to the DOC being the only District agency to receive an ‘A’ rating on DC Appleseed’s report card (an evaluation tool that assesses HIV/ AIDS services).

As the national debate over the role of government rages on, it is important that we all consider innovative approaches to accomplishing the will of the people while saving money. Effective public-private partnership is integral to the health and safety of everyone in the District and across the nation.

At Unity Health Care “we treat you well”

UNITY’S CONVENIENT CARE

WALK-INS WELCOME Monday – Friday 8 AM to 10 PM Saturdays & Sundays 8 AM to 2 PM

Available at two of our community health centers:

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UNITY’S MINNESOTA AVENUE HEALTH CENTER 3924 Minnesota Ave., NE Washington, DC 20019

For more information, please visit us at www.unityhealthcare.org or call: 202-469-4699 www.washingtoninformer.com

HEALTH, WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT / August 2012 H-9

www.graduateschool.edu

Why The Healthcare Industry?

In this post-recession era in the United States, it may be a mystery to some why healthcare is one industry that continues to have projected job growth. The industry’s growth and projected workforce is not limited to physicians and nurses, but also includes allied health professionals.

According to CareerOneStop. org, sponsored by the Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration, health-related positions make up 11 of the top 25 fastest-growing occupations with an entry level

education of an associate degree, and 8 of the top 25 with an entry level education of “some college.”

So why is healthcare growing?

Job openings in the United States stem from two key factors; new employment growth, and replacement needs as workers leave for other occupations, retire, etc. Replacement needs account for 63 percent of the approximately 54.8 million jobs projected to be added in the U.S.

between 2010 and 2020. For most industries, this means that the majority of jobs will become available only when specific employees need replacement, which can often make employment prospects sporadic. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, healthcare is projected to have not only significant replacement need, but also the highest new employment growth of any industry (Chart #1).1 Wondering why the need for so many new workers? There are two important factors affecting many of the health professions: 1) the aging population; and 2) the advancing technology in healthcare. For example, Medical Assistants are in demand due to the growth of the aging baby-boom population, spurring the need for preventive medical services often provided by physicians. Additional demand also is expected as a result of new and changing tasks for medical assistants, such as the increasing use of electronic health records (EHRs). For Medical Laboratory Technologists (MTs) and Technicians (MLTs), the increase in the aging population results in a greater need to diagnose medical conditions through laboratory procedures, such as cancer or type 2 diabetes.2

The American Medical Association’s Healthcare Career Directory identifies more than 80 careers in 19 categories in the healthcare industry. With such broad career options, working in healthcare can be rewarding both personally and professionally.

Graduate School USA Health Sciences offers programs in some of the most in-demand occupations: Associate Degree Programs:

Certificate Programs:

• Medical Assistant • Medical Laboratory Technician

• ECG Technician • Medical Office Administrative Assistant • Phlebotomy Technician

Why not choose healthcare for your next career?

The impressive national job growth for healthcare is mirrored in the DC metropolitan area. This provides area residents with vast opportunities if they are interested in entering a career path or changing careers and always wanted to work in healthcare.

Graduate School USA offers degree programs in Medical Assistant and Medical Laboratory

Learn More: Visit: graduateschool.edu/health Fall Semester begins August 27th.

Call: (202) 314-3657 Email: healthsciences@graduateschool.edu

L’Enfant Plaza

600 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20024

H-10 August 2012 / HEALTH, WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT

Technician, as well as certificate programs in Medical Office Administrative Assistant, ECG Technician, and Phlebotomy Technician. Anyone interested in learning more about the healthcare industry and rewarding professional opportunities is welcome to contact the School at (202) 314-3647 or email healthsciences@graduateschool.edu.

The Center for Health Sciences offers free Information Sessions and individual meetings to discuss careers in healthcare.

1 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition, Projections Overview, on the Internet at http:// www.bls.gov/ooh/about/projectionsoverview.htm (visited August 03, 2012).

2 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition, Medical Assistants, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/ medical-assistants.htm (visited August 03, 2012).

3 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition, Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians, on the Internet at http:// www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/medicaland-clinical-laboratory-technologistsand-technicians.htm (visited August 03, 2012).

IN-AUG12-CHS

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ELEMENT: 45_a-CMKY-Washington_Informer-Student-English_7_562x10_5

Healthy Back-toSchool Tips

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My main at the dental practice of Dr. Dianne that we had to establish a reading time be aware that if a child snores, it’s abM2 • 217 Church Street • Philadelphia, PA • 19106 • 215.925.5400 concern is that schools give a lot of Whitfield-Locke in Northwest. for the family as a whole,” said Keith normal. It’s a sign of respiratory probcandy to our youth. Sugar left on the READ WITH YOUR CHILD: Brunson, a physical trainer who lives lems.

By Misty Brown WI Staff Writer “School starts at home,” happens to be a favorite expression that’s used when you’re raising children. Here are a few healthy back-toschool tips for parents and guardians to ensure children stay healthy and engaged during the school day. Studies have proven that these tips will promote academic success.

STRESS FREE: “Organization is the key to a stress-free life.

Prepare school lunches ahead of time; prep the breakfast meal, put out clothes for the following day, complete all homework and school projects. Avoid watching television in the morning and dodge a power struggle when it’s time to leave. Before we leave [the house], we pray a feel good prayer to get good grades or whatever the child wants to pray for that day,” said the Rev. Edward J. Brown, a grandfather of eight, who lives in New Orleans, La. EAT HEALTHY: “The most important thing a parent can do is to provide three healthy meals and several simple snacks throughout the day. Even though, my three children are home-schooled, I make sure they eat fruits, whole grains and vegetables. I avoid processed meats because it [makes children hyperactive] and it will affect their cognitive development,” said Atif Tate, co-owner of Inspire BBQ Restaurant in Northeast.

AN APPLE A DAY KEEPS THE DOCTOR AWAY: Gary Cha, a co-owner of Yes Organic Supermarket, a Washington, D.C.based chain, believes that the “best snack is an apple. It’s a delicious healthy fruit – slice it in quarters and dip it in fruit juices such as lemon or apple. Always remove the seeds for young children.”

AVOID DAIRY PRODUCTS: “When I see the signs of my children coming down with a cold, I don’t give them cold liquids, ice cream, pasta or bread. These foods are mucus forming and make it difficult to fight off a cold,” said Shawna L. Malone, founder & CEO, Three60World, Inc., in Northwest. The mother of four has found her health regimen to be effective.

DENTAL HYGIENE: “At www.washingtoninformer.com

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HEALTH, WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT / August 2012 H-11

Stop Glaucoma From Taking Your Sight You lock away your valuables to keep them safe. But there’s one valuable you may have forgotten: Your sight. If you are African American age 40 or older, have diabetes, or have a family history of glaucoma, you are at higher risk.

Glaucoma is a group of diseases that can damage the optic nerve of the eye and result in vision loss and blindness. Primary open-angle glaucoma is the most common form. In this condition, fluid builds up in the front chamber of the eye, and the optic nerve is damaged by the resulting increase in eye pressure. “Glaucoma affects more than 2 million people nationwide and is a leading cause of vision loss and blindness in African Americans.

In fact, African Americans are at risk of developing it at an earlier age. Glaucoma has no early warning signs or symptoms, and most people don’t know this,” said Dr. James Tsai, chair of the Glaucoma Subcommittee for

the National Eye Institute (NEI) National Eye Health Education Program (NEHEP). “It’s very important that people don’t wait until they notice a problem with their vision to have an eye exam.”

As glaucoma progresses, a person may eventually notice his or her side vision decreasing. If the disease is left untreated, the field of vision narrows and vision loss may result. “Most studies show that at least half of all persons with glaucoma don’t know they have this potentially blinding disease,” said Dr. Paul Sieving, director of NEI, National Institutes of Health. “Glaucoma can be detected through a comprehensive dilated eye exam. NEI encourages all people at higher risk of glaucoma—African Americans age 40 and older; everyone age 60, especially Mexican Americans; and those with a family history of glaucoma—to get a dilated eye exam every one to two years, because early detection and treatment may save your sight.”

A comprehensive dilated eye exam is a painless procedure.

Drops are placed in your eyes to dilate, or widen, the pupils. This allows your eye care professional to see inside your eye and examine the optic nerve for signs of damage and other vision problems.

If you have Medicare, are African American age 50 or older, and have diabetes or a family history of glaucoma, you may be eligible for a low-cost, comprehensive dilated eye exam through the Medicare benefit for eye health.

Call 1–800–MEDICARE or visit http://www.medicare.gov for more information. To find out about other possible financial assistance for eye care, visit http:// www.nei.nih.gov/health/financialaid.asp.

Keep vision in your future. For more information about glaucoma, visit http://www.nei.nih. gov/glaucoma or call NEI at 301–496–5248.

H-12 August 2012 / HEALTH, WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT

The Future Begins With The Mind Of A Child

By Brianna Vega Inspire BBQ

T

he mind of a child is where the future begins, healthy brain development is essential at very young ages. Parents have to instill healthy eating habits in their children and model that behavior.

Good nutrition and a balanced diet helps children grow healthy and makes a tremendous difference in their mental and physical development. Ways to ensure that your children are eating healthy is to have regular family meals; traditional family meals have become uncommon. Preserve time in the mornings and prepare a healthy lunch or snack for your children. The most significant way to ensure healthy eating is to lead by example.

Cut down your chips and soda intake, substitute that for strawberries and a bottled water. Be their role model and eat healthy.

If you have not been able to implement these techniques in your household yet, remember it is never too late start. Take initiative and start now, implement it as back-to-school change. Imagine how much more productive your children could be in the classroom when they are not hyper and jumpy after a sugary lunch. After eating a healthy and balanced lunch, your children will give their full attention to his or her teacher; as a result they will learn more.

Inspire BBQ on H Street NE is aware of the importance of a young child’s nutritional diet.

For over 10 years, they have been providing healthy and nutritional lunch for youth ranging from daycare to high school.

Chef Tate says, “The secret is to

serve food as fresh as possible.

Start with fresh fruit, fresh vegetables and fresh juices.” Serving your children fresh foods ensure that they are growing properly and retaining information. Children are vulnerable and at their ages they cannot make proper decisions when it comes to their health. They will always choose candy and donuts over celery and yogurt.

Chef Tate suggests that parents have conversations about health with their children, get them to understand the importance of the type of foods they consume. Everything single item they intake does not have to be extremely healthy. You can give your children the simple foods they enjoy and add nutrition. For example, when you give them cereal, cut up some bananas and add them to the cereal. Slice up some fresh fruit to go with their sandwich, instead of chips and cookies.

“A burst of nutrition throughout the day improves your overall mood. For snacks, give the children carrots and popcorn instead of processed pizza and hot dogs” says Chef Tate. He encourages parents to find out the lunch that their children eat at school and read the nutritional facts. Be aware of the supplements the kids may need. Shy away from giving them foods with food coloring and an excess of sugar. Tate suggests that parents avoid feeding their children food with preservatives, they affect the child’s behavior and attention span. Healthy foods are essential to a child’s development, be conscious of the foods you feed your children and how they affect their growth.

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Back to School Health Tips Shannon Hines Kaiser Permanente African American Employee Resource Group Kaiser Permanente Diversity Programs Getting your kids off to a great start this school year is more than just buying school supplies and clothes.

Many studies have shown that kids who eat well and are physically active do better in both school and sports.

Immunizations, which help protect your kids from harmful illness, also help keep them feeling their best. Use these quick back to school tips to help you keep your kids healthy and safe!

Use 5-2-1-0 as your guide to healthy eating and active living It’s a simple message and your kids can easily reach at least one of the key goals.

There is also strong scientific reasoning supporting each component of the message.

5

: Eat at least five fruits and vegetables a day.

A diet rich in fruits and vegetables provides vitamins and minerals important for supporting growth and development. These nutrients are also support optimal immune function in children.

Tips for parents: The palm of the child’s hand is a good reference for a serving size for meat and protein and most vegetables.

2

: Limit TV and computer use (not related to school) to two hours or less a day.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the average child watches an average of 5–6 hours of television a day. Watching too much television is related to an increase in overweight and obesity, lower reading scores and attention problems.

The AAP recommends that children under age 2 shouldn’t watch any

TV. In addition, the AAP recommends no TV or computer in the room in which the child sleeps, and no more than 2 hours of screen time a day.

1

: Get 1 hour or more of physical activity every day. Regular physical activity is important to maintain a healthy weight and to prevent chronic health problems, such as diabetes. While many school-age children are active, physical activity declines during adolescence. Children who are raised in families with active lifestyles are more likely to stay active as adults.

0

: Drink less sugar. Try water and low fat milk instead of soda and drinks with lots of sugar. Sugarsweetened beverage drinking has increased over the past 20 years. High intake among children is related to overweight/obesity, not drinking enough milk and dental cavities. It is recommended that children 1–6 years old consume no more than 4–6 ounces of juice per day and youth 7–18 years old consume no more than 8–12 ounces. Whole milk is the single largest source of saturated fat in children’s diets. Starting at age 2, switching to low fat or nonfat milk products greatly reduces dietary saturated and total fat, as well as total calories.

children younger than 5 years of age and children of any age with a long-term health condition like asthma, diabetes and heart disease. These children are at higher risk of having serious health problems if they get the flu. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that all children 6 months and older and all adults get vaccinated against the flu every year.

Check with your child’s doctor for other immunizations that your child may need.

To learn more about how to help keep your kids healthy and safe, visit kp.org/children and kp.org/health.

Protect your kids with vaccines Kids need immunizations to protect them from diseases.

These diseases may cause serious health problems and even death. Outbreaks from disease often happen in areas where immunization rates are low.

One very important vaccine that you will want to get for your kids this fall is the flu vaccine. Vaccination is especially important for

WE Will not bE part of

Generation XXL. Learn more at kp.org/HEALTH

Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of the Mid-Atlantic States, Inc. 2101 East Jefferson St., Rockville, MD 20852 12624_8/1/12-9/30/12

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HEALTH, WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT / August 2012 H-13

Sleep smarts: (ARA) - Does your list of school supplies include sleep?

Studies say it should, especially for teens.

Only 8 percent of American teenagers are getting the required nine or more hours of sleep needed, according to the National Sleep Foundation. In fact, a recent study published in the “Journal of Adolescent Health” found that more than 60 percent of high school students get less than seven hours of sleep per night. The situation does not improve in college, either. A 2010 study conducted at the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota revealed, not surprisingly, that 70 percent of college students get less than the 8 recommended hours of sleep.

While most people have, at times, battled sleep issues, poor sleep habits plague col-

lege campuses. Let’s face it most college kids do not place a premium on a good night’s rest. In addition to sleep falling low on the priority list, most students are sleeping on cheap dorm mattresses and worn out pillows - which can affect sleep quality.

Perhaps reminding your student that there is a proven relationship between healthy sleep habits and academic success might help encourage healthier habits. In 2010, a University of Minnesota study found a significant positive correlation between the amount of sleep per night and GPA. Additionally, as the average number of days per week a student got less than five hours of sleep increased, GPA decreased.

Once a pattern of bad sleep has developed, is it possible for teens and college students to

Sleep is an important part of back-to-school preparation

“reset” their internal clocks?

Researchers at the American Academy of Sleep Medicine say it is. Suggest that your students try following these tips, a little bit at a time, over several weeks: Try your best to avoid caffeine, smoking, alcohol, heavy exercise and heavy snacking (pizza included) at least three hours before bedtime.

Don’t pull all-nighters or cram for exams late at night.

Specifically schedule studying for when you’re most alert so your performance won’t be affected.

Be as consistent as possible with your sleep habits, ideally aiming to go to bed at the same time each evening and get at least eight hours of sleep per night.

Wake up at the same time every morning and head outside.

Sunlight helps reset circadian rhythms, the body’s internal biological process that rotates around a 24-hour schedule.

Turn off your cell phone and laptop at night. Besides being a distraction, exposure to light can suppress the production of melatonin, a hormone that aids sleep.

Make sure your bedroom is set up for sleep. If you are a light sleeper or your dorm is noisy, try wearing earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones.

Keep the room cool and dark.

Make your bed as comfortable as possible. Consider investing in a foam mattress pad and a quality pillow. For example, for around $100, you can purchase a mattress topper and a waterbase pillow, both of which greatly improve head, neck and back support while you sleep.

“While you most likely cannot control the amount of sleep your teens or collegeaged kids receive, at least you can make sure that once they are in bed, the sleep they do get is of the best quality,” explains Maurice Bard, founder and CEO of Mediflow Inc., a company that makes waterbase bed pillows. “One simple way to accomplish this is to make sure your teens are sleeping on the right pillow - one that adjusts to properly support their head and neck throughout the night.”

Countless studies have shown that people who get the right amount of sleep are physically and emotionally healthier - which is of course is something we all want for our children. Getting better grades is just the icing on the cake.

Quality health care for our community.

Elizabeth Taylor Medical Center

1701 14th Street, NW Max Robinson Center

2301 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE Daphnie Rogers | Health Educator

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Thingamajig gives youth from all over the region the opportunity to exercise their minds and bodies while stimulating their creativity Prince George’s County Executive Rushern Baker has a little fun with flight simulation – photo credit Michael Yourishin

“Two Tuskegee Airmen accompanied by a Y staffer and a rep. from Women in Aviation”.

Building challenges with LEGOs – photo credit Nicole Lanciano

YMCA summer campers arrive bright and early for a day of fun and learning – photo credit Tracey Mitchell

Annual YMCA Thingamajig Convention Draws Thousands

By Elton Hayes WI Staff Writer Before Trinette Kinsel could explain the ground rules to her three young charges, they had honed in like radar to a flight simulator, and sprinted off to test their aviation skills. Had this been any other time, she would have stopped them in their tracks. But, considering the event and the venue, she decided to let boys be boys.

As Kinsel’s son Michael, 10, settled into the large, cushy black leather chair, his hands trembled in anticipation as his little fingers gripped the flight joystick.

The edges of his mouth began to curl and form a smile almost as wide as the 32-inch high-definition video screen directly in front of him.

“It was awesome,” said the aspiring astronaut. “It felt like I got to fly a real plane and everywww.washingtoninformer.com

thing. It was an awesome experience,” he said after successfully completing his mission.

The YMCA of Metropolitan Washington transformed Upper Marlboro’s Show Place Arena and Equestrian Center into arguably the region’s largest playground on Thursday, July 26 as it hosted the 18th annual Thingamajig Invention Convention. Four thousand of the area’s youngest innovators participated in the festival that showcased their inventions – ones that they had spent weeks fine-tuning and perfecting, leading up to the big event.

A seemingly infinite number of brown banquet tables spanned the 35,000-square-foot arena where more than 500 entries fashioned from recycled goods captured the attention of children, visitors and judges. Old newspapers got a new lease on life as blouses and shirts, card-

board shoeboxes morphed into doll wagons and an assortment of pasta that included spaghetti and elbow macaroni formed anatomically-correct skeletons.

Briana Zanders volunteers with YMCA Calomiris, located in Northeast. Zanders escorted five youngsters, ages 8-10, from her area YMCA who submitted entries this year. They could hardly contain their excitement – they wanted to know if their projects had earned coveted ribbons.

“We like to see all the activities and the arts and crafts,” said Zanders, 21. “We also learn a lot from the ideas, the different creativity and the performances.”

But her group’s attention shifted once they hit the jampacked arena floor that teemed with enough interactive workshops and games to keep even the most rambunctious children captivated for hours. Stations

featured remote-controlled robots and airplanes, bottle rockets and even a miniature garden, to name a few.

“The bus ride home back to the [YMCA] is going to be quiet,” Zanders said. “Everyone is going to be asleep.”

This year’s convention theme, Sky’s The Limit, worked perfectly for Kinsel, 39, who attended the event with her son Michael and two nephews – all of whom hope to one day earn their wings.

Members of the Tuskegee Airmen donned their red blazers and bronze wings and signed autographs for Kinsel’s crew.

Trading cards that featured the names of other Tuskegee Airmen along with fun facts about the iconic squadron lined the table in front of the former fliers who regaled admirers, both young and old, with their feats during World War II. “Aviation had been removed

from us for a number of years,” said Herbert Jones, a Tuskegee Airman who lives in Ft. Washington, Md. “And now we have a number of young black people in military aviation, and who are flying commercially, who are finding that it’s a very rewarding industry,” the 88-year-old said.

YMCA officials said that they couldn’t pass on the opportunity to host the former pilots who endured racial discrimination in the 1940s to become one of the most highly respected air combat units in military history. ‘“Our integral partnerships with the FAA, Tuskegee Airmen and AOPA led us to choose an aviation theme,” said Janice Williams, creator of Thingamajig and YMCA senior vice president of program development.’

HEALTH, WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT / August 2012 H-15

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For close to 30 years, Unity Health Care continues to provide quality health care and social services to DC residents regardless of their ability to pay. Because at Unity. . . “We treat you well.”

To schedule an appointment call us at 202-469-4699 H-16 August 2012 / HEALTH, WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT

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