Below you will find a list of press releases that are more than 180 days old.  To view a press release, click on the title.

• Great American Smokeout Set for Nov. 15
  Wednesday, November 14, 2007
  Health organizations and local health departments across Kentucky and the nation once again are gearing up for the Great American Smokeout, a nationally recognized event that challenges people to stop using tobacco products for the day.
• State Announces Top-Performing Child Support Contractors; Oldham ranks first; Warren is most improved
  Wednesday, November 14, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services today announced the state’s top-performing child support contracting officials and one that made significant improvement during the past year.
• World Diabetes Day
  Wednesday, November 14, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health is joining health care providers, educators and advocates from around the world to raise awareness about diabetes.
• Media Advisory: Food Stamp Program to Receive $1.4 Million Bonus for Excellent Customer Service
  Wednesday, November 14, 2007
  Officials from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) will present a check for more than $1.4 million to the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services’ (CHFS) Department for Community Based Services on Thursday as an award for exemplary service delivery in the state’s Food Stamp Program.
• Be Aware of Bed Bugs
  Friday, November 09, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) encourages Kenuckians to learn more about bed bugs, a pest that could be lurking in their homes.
• Statewide elder readiness survey results released; Kentuckians say communities aren’t actively planning for aging baby boomers
  Friday, November 09, 2007
  Results of a statewide survey show most Kentuckians are aware that the aging of the baby boomers (people currently age 43-61) will bring major changes to their communities – but they don’t think their communities are actively planning for what has been called a pending “demographic tsunami.”
• Diabetes Caregivers Play an Important Role
  Monday, November 05, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health is reaching out to diabetes caregivers during American Diabetes Month because they are such an important link in improving quality of life for people living with diabetes and reducing health care costs for everyone. With the right tools and knowledge, caregivers can help their loved one reduce the number of diabetes-related complications he or she experiences and live a long and healthy life.
• State’s Adoptive Families Honored at Reception; Nine families receive awards
  Friday, November 02, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) honored nine adoptive families tonight at a reception celebrating “Forever Families.”
• Health and Family Services Secretary Birdwhistell receives Chrysalis House award; Honor is for helping mothers fight substance abuse addiction
  Thursday, November 01, 2007
  The Chrysalis House of Lexington recently honored Mark D. Birdwhistell, secretary of the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), for his work on behalf of mothers and their children.
• Media Advisory: State’s Adoptive Families to Be Honored at Reception; Nine families to receive awards
  Thursday, November 01, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) will honor nine adoptive families from across the state at a ceremony and reception celebrating “forever families” this week.
• Health and Family Services Secretary Birdwhistell receives child advocacy award; Louisville’s Family Place Awards ‘Gold Medal for Advocacy’
  Monday, October 29, 2007
  Family Place of Louisville recently honored Mark D. Birdwhistell, secretary of the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), for his work on behalf of children and families. Family Place presented Birdwhistell with its “Gold Medal for Advocacy.”
• Public Health to Host Avian Influenza Workshop
  Friday, October 26, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) and the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department will host an avian influenza (bird flu) responder workshop Oct. 29-30 to discuss how agencies would respond to an outbreak of the disease in birds, with the potential to spread to humans.
• First Lady, state officials announce Knox, Laurel County drug court funding; Program helps parents overcome addictions, strengthens families
  Thursday, October 25, 2007
  First Lady Glenna Fletcher, the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), the Court of Justice and Operation UNITE today announced funding for a new drug court program to serve adults and families in Knox and Laurel counties. The $60,000 in funding from CHFS will go toward treatment services for families involved with the Knox or Laurel County drug courts, which will offer an alternative to traditional processing of nonviolent drug offenders. In the 11 years since the Kentucky Court of Justice established
• Commission's Youth Advisory Council Releases Statement in Honor of National Bullying Prevention Awareness Week
  Wednesday, October 24, 2007
  In observance of National Bullying Prevention Awareness Week Oct 21-27, the Young Adults with Power workgroup coordinated by the Commission on Children with Special Health Care Needs (CCSHCN) has released the following statement to increase awareness of this issue: "It is our council members’ belief that every child should feel 100 percent safe when going to school and other social gatherings despite their gender, race, origin, religion, sexual orientation or ability. All members of this council have had experiences of being bullied, and we feel that it should never be tolerated."
• State Health Department Provides Portable Treatment Centers to Hospitals
  Monday, October 22, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) announced today that it has provided all 14 hospital preparedness regions across the state with mobile treatment centers that can be deployed at or near the scene of a disaster or emergency to provide treatment for patients.
• Federal Disaster Preparedness Officials to Visit Kentucky
  Monday, October 22, 2007
  Federal disaster preparedness officials with the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) will visit Kentucky this week to observe emergency preparedness measures in the state.
• Adoption Blue Ribbon Panel Meeting Scheduled for Oct. 23; Group to discuss legislative strategy for 2008
  Friday, October 19, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services’ blue ribbon panel on adoption and its workgroups are scheduled to meet next week to discuss possible issues to be considered during the 2008 session of the General Assembly. The panel will meet at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 23, in the Capital Plaza Hotel, 405 Wilkinson Blvd., Frankfort. It is open to the public.
• Don’t Get Sidelined by Foodborne Illness
  Friday, October 19, 2007
  It’s the fall sports season – a time for football, horse racing, tailgating and being extra mindful of food safety.
• State Health Department Urges Kentuckians to Get Flu, Pneumonia Vaccinations
  Thursday, October 18, 2007
  With this year’s flu season under way in Kentucky and ample supply of vaccine available, state health department officials are urging Kentuckians to get their annual flu shot.
• Governor Fletcher announces $4 million investmentin Martin County substance abuse treatment partnership; Funding to help at-risk families includes $2.5 million federal grant
  Thursday, October 18, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Familes Services (CHFS) today announced a $4 million investment in a substance abuse recovery partnership to assist parents in Martin County. The funding includes a $2.5 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration on Children, Youth and Families Office and an additional $1.56 million from CHFS.
• Watch Out for Staph
  Thursday, October 18, 2007
  Kentuckians should be aware of dangerous skin infections and take simple precautions to prevent infection from bacteria like Staphylococcal aureus, or staph, particularly strains that are difficult to treat with antibiotics.
• State funds drug-treatment partnership in Barren County; $275,000 project to serve parents with substance abuse addiction
  Thursday, October 18, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) today announced $275,000 in funding for a substance abuse treatment referral project in Barren County. The funding is part of CHFS’ Sobriety Treatment and Recovery Team (START) initiative, which focuses on early intervention in families who are at higher risk of child abuse and neglect due to a parent’s alcohol or drug addiction.
• Memorial honors slain social service aide Boni Frederick; Union County woman killed in line of duty one year ago
  Tuesday, October 16, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) paid tribute to slain social service aide Boni Frederick at a memorial today in Morganfield. Frederick, who worked in the Union County Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) office, was killed on Oct. 16, 2006, while she supervised an infant foster child’s home visit with his birth mother in Henderson, Ky.
• Media Advisory: State to announce funding for Martin County drug treatment partnership; Program for at-risk families awarded major federal grant
  Tuesday, October 16, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) will announce significant federal and state funding for an innovative substance abuse treatment partnership in Martin County on Thursday.
• News Advisory: Memorial to honor slain social service aide Boni Frederick; Union County woman killed in line of duty one year ago
  Thursday, October 11, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) will remember and pay tribute to slain social service aide Boni Frederick at a memorial next week in Morganfield.
• FIRST LADY GLENNA FLETCHER TO PROMOTE BREAST CANCER AWARENESS
  Tuesday, October 09, 2007
  Media Advisory on breast cancer event.
• Kentucky AmeriCorps launches a new service year; Now in its 13th year, program still getting things done
  Tuesday, October 09, 2007
  Today, 225 first- and second-year AmeriCorps members took a pledge to get things done in Kentucky as they embark on a year of service to their fellow Kentuckians across the state.
• Governor Fletcher announces project to study process of adult protective services investigations; State partners with UK for first comprehensive study of its kind in the nation
  Monday, October 08, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) is partnering with the University of Kentucky’s Graduate Center for Gerontology to study procedures for investigating alleged abuse of vulnerable older adults in Kentucky. The study will evaluate adult protective services procedures and track every case initiated during the week of Oct. 1 through Oct. 8.
• Don’t Forget: Wear Pink to Work on Wednesday
  Monday, October 08, 2007
  Remember to don your favorite pink blouse, suit, dress, scarf or necktie Wednesday to honor the breast cancer awareness observance “Wear Pink to Work Day.”
• Health and Family Services October 2007 Meetings Schedule
  Monday, October 08, 2007
• Media Advisory: Kentucky to sponsor human services worker safety conference; National forum comes one year after death of Boni Frederick
  Thursday, October 04, 2007
  The widower of a Kansas social worker who was killed in the line of duty and the leader of a national human service worker organization will speak at a national forum on human services worker safety next week in Louisville. The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) is sponsoring the “It’s All About Safety!” conference Tuesday, Oct. 9, through Thursday, Oct. 11, at the Holiday Inn Hurstbourne, 1325 S. Hurstbourne Parkway, Louisville.
• Media Advisory: Conference to focus on racial disparity in child welfare system; Higher number of African-American children in state foster care
  Tuesday, October 02, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) and the Louisville Neighborhood Place network are sponsoring a conference on race, community and child welfare next week. The conference is Tuesday, Oct. 9, in the Galt House Hotel, 140 N. Fourth St., Louisville.
• Governor Fletcher Announces Additional e-Prescribing Grant Applications Sought
  Friday, September 28, 2007
  Governor Ernie Fletcher announced today that the Cabinet for Health and Family Services and the Kentucky e-Health Network Board will accept applications for a new round of e-Prescribing grants.
• Wear Pink to Work Day Set for Oct. 10
  Friday, September 28, 2007
  In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and as a part of the Get Healthy Kentucky program, First Lady Glenna Fletcher and the Governor’s Office of Wellness and Physical Activity are urging all Kentuckians to participate in “Wear Pink to Work Day” on Wednesday, Oct. 10.
• Elder readiness meeting reveals regional survey findings
  Thursday, September 27, 2007
  Most Northern Kentucky area residents are aware that the aging of the baby boomers (people currently age 43-61) will bring major changes to their communities – but they don’t think their communities are actively planning for what has been called a pending “demographic tsunami.”
• KeHC Board to Hold First Meeting
  Thursday, September 27, 2007
  The first meeting of the Kentucky e-Health Corporation (KeHC) Board will be from 2 to 4 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 2, Meeting Room A, Council on Postsecondary Education, Suite 320, 1024 Capital Center Drive, Frankfort.
• Federal Grant Will Allow Kentucky to Launch Half-Million Nursing Home Diversion Program
  Thursday, September 27, 2007
  A grant from the federal Department for Health and Human Services (HHS) means nearly a half-million dollars will be available to provide more affordable choices to help keep people at home and out of nursing homes.
• DPH, FDA Warn Public Not to Consume Unpasteurized Cream
  Wednesday, September 26, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) is urging consumers to follow a recent U.S. Food and Drug Administration warning statement not to consume unpasteurized cream labeled as “Organic Pastures Grade A Raw Cream.”
• Learn More about TB
  Wednesday, September 26, 2007
• Media Advisory: Adoption is focus of training conference; State to honor adoptive family, social worker
  Tuesday, September 25, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services’ Department for Community Based Services (DCBS), in conjunction with the University of Kentucky, Eastern Kentucky University and Murray State University, is sponsoring a conference this week to train adoptive families. The “Fall in Love with Adoption” conference is planned for Friday, Sept. 28, and Saturday, Sept. 29, at the Holiday Inn Hurstborne Hotel, 1325 S. Hurstbourne Parkway, Louisville.
• Meals Matter
  Friday, September 21, 2007
  Are you looking for a way to improve your children’s self-esteem, increase family unity and make sure your loved ones are getting the vitamins and nutrients they need in their diet? If you answered yes to any of these questions, Get Healthy Kentucky encourages you to participate in National Family Day – A Day to Eat Dinner with Your Children.
• Hearing Set to Review Block Grant Application
  Friday, September 21, 2007
  A hearing has been set to review a public health block grant application.
• Governor Fletcher Announces Funding for Warren County Youth Promise Program; Program provides early intervention services for at-risk youth
  Friday, September 21, 2007
  Governor Ernie Fletcher today announced $75,000 in state funding to launch an after-school project to help at-risk teens and pre-teens in Warren County. The Youth Promise Program for teens, which includes the “Smart Moves” research-based program, will begin this fall at the Boys and Girls Club of Bowling Green. The club will receive $75,000 for its teen after-school efforts.
• Free community fairs to feature resource information; State recruiting foster families at Louisville events
  Friday, September 21, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services is sponsoring two free community fairs in the Parkland and South Louisville neighborhoods of the Jefferson Service Region this month to engage more community partners and residents in caring for children,.
• Big Sandy elder readiness meeting reveals regional survey findings
  Friday, September 21, 2007
  Most Big Sandy area residents are aware that the aging of the baby boomers (people currently age 43-61) will bring major changes to their communities – but they don’t think their communities are actively planning for what has been called a pending “demographic tsunami.”
• New Technology to Enhance Communication Preparedness for Public Health
  Wednesday, September 19, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) has enhanced the state’s alternative communications capabilities between local public health agencies and hospitals with the addition of datacasting and compressed video teleconferencing systems.
• Kentucky exceeds its welfare-to-work goals; State surpasses target for getting clients off financial aid
  Wednesday, September 19, 2007
  Kentucky has surpassed its goals for moving Kentuckians off of welfare and into jobs over the past two federal fiscal years.
• Governor Takes Action to Advance e-Health in Kentucky
  Tuesday, September 18, 2007
  Governor Ernie Fletcher today announced key developments in e-Health that will dramatically speed the creation of a statewide electronic health care data network.
• Peer Counseling Program Helps New Moms Learn to Breastfeed
  Friday, September 14, 2007
  A new Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) breastfeeding peer counselor program provides support and information for prenatal and breastfeeding mothers – to help ensure good health for Kentucky’s babies.
• Sports and Tobacco Don’t Mix
  Thursday, September 13, 2007
  University of Kentucky and University of Louisville athletes, cheerleaders and mascots are working to spread the Get Healthy Kentucky message - sports and tobacco don’t mix. Representatives from both universities jumped at the chance to take part in a new campaign to improve the lives of Kentuckians and will appear in marketing materials to discourage tobacco use among young people.
• CHFS Proceeds with Disciplinary Action Against Six Hardin County Social Service Workers
  Friday, September 07, 2007
  The Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) is moving forward with disciplinary action against six Hardin County Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) employees for their involvement in child welfare issues highlighted in a CHFS Office of Inspector General report released earlier this year.
• Just Ask the Question
  Friday, September 07, 2007
  Kentucky Awareness Week Aims to Educate, Train Others for Suicide Warning Signs When someone is in distress or considering taking their own life, a simple intervention – such as asking a single question - may be all it takes to prevent a suicide .
• Not All Fun and Games
  Friday, September 07, 2007
  Recent toy recalls have made headlines – and caused parents to worry about their children’s potential exposure to lead and its effect on their health.
• CHFS Secretary Birdwhistell to speak at child abuse prevention conference
  Wednesday, September 05, 2007
  At the 11th annual Kids Are Worth It conference in Lexington on Thursday, Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) Secretary Mark D. Birdwhistell will talk about the cabinet’s early intervention and prevention efforts aimed at keeping children and families healthy and safe.
• What’s on Your Hand
  Wednesday, September 05, 2007
  From back-to-school to Halloween and Thanksgiving, autumn brings a host of reasons to celebrate – and to think about food safety.
• New Program Provides Further Flexibility to Serve Kentuckians under KyHealth Choices
  Wednesday, September 05, 2007
  The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has approved a new Medicaid waiver that will increase Kentucky's ability to provide community services to individuals with mental retardation and developmental disabilities through KyHealth Choices.
• Health and Family Services September 2007 Open Meetings Schedule
  Tuesday, September 04, 2007
  Public Meetings for September 2007
• World Rabies Day on Sept. 8 Aims to Draw Attention to Preventable Disease
  Tuesday, September 04, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) is joining the Alliance for Rabies Control to mark Sept. 8 as World Rabies Day, to focus attention on this entirely preventable disease.
• Workshops to Address Communicating with Vulnerable Populations during Emergencies
  Tuesday, September 04, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) will host four informational community workshops to address communicating with vulnerable populations during public health emergencies or other disasters.
• Get Healthy Kentucky Joins Disney, Local Communities for Family Wellness Camps
  Tuesday, August 28, 2007
  Youngsters around the state are encouraged to join Get Healthy Kentucky and Disney’s eXtreme Team for MOVE IT!, a series of two-hour wellness camps for young people designed to get Kentucky’s youth physically active and on the road to wellness. Participants in the events are sure to experience activities that will get them moving, plus healthy snacks, games and plenty of prizes.
• Work Begins on New Initiative to Fight Heart Disease
  Monday, August 27, 2007
  Health and Family Services Secretary Mark D. Birdwhistell has appointed a group of government, business and health care leaders to the new Kentucky Cardiovascular Disease Initiative (KCDI) Board, established by House Bill 185.
• Rob Edwards Named Cabinet for Health and Family Services Chief of Staff
  Thursday, August 23, 2007
  Robert L. Edwards, chief financial officer and legislative director for the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), has been appointed chief of staff for CHFS, effective Sept. 1, Secretary Mark D. Birdwhistell announced today.
• Food Safety Goes to the Fair
  Tuesday, August 21, 2007
  The smells of corn dogs, cotton candy, steak and pork chop sandwiches fill the air in Louisville each August, creating a warm welcome for Kentucky State Fair patrons. But for a host of food safety workers assigned to ensure sound food preparation and handling practices are followed, the delicious treats signal one thing – hard work.
• Bluegrass elder readiness meeting reveals regional survey findings
  Tuesday, August 21, 2007
  Most Bluegrass area residents are aware that the aging of the baby boomers will bring major changes to their communities – but they don’t think their communities are actively planning for what has been called a pending “demographic tsunami.”
• Lincoln Trail elder readiness meeting reveals regional survey findings
  Tuesday, August 21, 2007
  Most Lincoln Trail area residents are aware that the aging of the baby boomers (people current age 43-61) will bring major changes to their communities – but they don’t think their communities are actively planning for what has been called a pending “demographic tsunami.”
• Buffalo Trace elder readiness meeting reveals regional survey findings
  Tuesday, August 21, 2007
  Most Buffalo Trace area residents are aware that the aging of the baby boomers will bring major changes to their communities – but they don’t think their communities are actively planning for what has been called a pending “demographic tsunami.”
• FIVCO elder readiness meeting reveals regional survey findings
  Tuesday, August 21, 2007
  Most FIVCO area residents are aware that the aging of the baby boomers (people currently age 43-61) will bring major changes to their communities – but they don’t think their communities are actively planning for what has been called a pending “demographic tsunami.”
• Green River elder readiness meeting reveals regional survey findings
  Tuesday, August 21, 2007
  Most Green River area residents are aware that the aging of the baby boomers (people currently age 43-61) will bring major changes to their communities – but they don’t think their communities are actively planning for what has been called a pending “demographic tsunami.”
• Media Advisory
  Monday, August 20, 2007
• Cabinet for Health and Family Services Names Shawn Crouch New Medicaid Commissioner
  Monday, August 20, 2007
  Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) Secretary Mark D. Birdwhistell announced today that Shawn Crouch has been appointed the new commissioner of the Department for Medicaid Services, effective Sept. 1.
• Parent Advocacy Program helps families stay together; Mothers, fathers benefit from mentors who have navigated child welfare system
  Wednesday, August 15, 2007
  Children who spent time in foster care had fewer placements and a better chance at family reunification when their parents got help from others who had experienced similar situations. That’s one key finding in a recent report about a Parent Advocacy Program in Jefferson County sponsored by the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS). The program enlists mothers and fathers who were once involved with the state’s child welfare system to serve as guides and mentors for families facing similar circumstances.
• Cabinet for Health and Family Services to Offer Wellness Information, Free Screenings at Kentucky State Fair
  Thursday, August 09, 2007
  Visitors to the Kentucky State Fair in Louisville this month can learn how to improve their families’ health and well-being through free screenings and educational activities at the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services’ (CHFS) exhibit.
• Take Precautions to Keep Your Cool in Hot Weather
  Wednesday, August 08, 2007
  Governor Ernie Fletcher and the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) are advising Kentuckians to follow some common-sense safety tips to keep your cool during this period of extreme heat.
• Adoption Blue Ribbon Panel Meeting Scheduled for Aug. 22; Group to discuss child welfare policies, parental rights
  Wednesday, August 08, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services’ blue ribbon panel on adoption is scheduled to meet this month. The meeting will be from 1-4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 22, in the Capital Plaza Hotel, 405 Wilkinson Blvd., Frankfort. It is open to the public.
• African-American and Hispanic Leadership Conference on HIV/AIDS Set
  Tuesday, August 07, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health’s (DPH) 12th Annual African-American and Hispanic Leadership Conference on HIV/AIDS is set for Friday, Sept. 7, through Saturday, Sept. 8, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel – The Campbell House, 1375 South Broadway, Lexington. The theme for this year’s conference is “26 Years of AIDS is Enough: The Time to Deliver is NOW!”
• Media Advisory
  Friday, August 03, 2007
  The 12th Annual Africa-American and Hispanic Leadership Conference on HIV/AIDS will take place
• Kentucky celebrates Breastfeeding Awareness Month; Mothers’ milk benefits babies’ health and well-being
  Monday, July 30, 2007
  August is Breastfeeding Awareness Month in Kentucky, and the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action has declared Aug. 1-7 as World Breastfeeding Week.
• GHK Awarded $100,000 Grant to Fight Childhood Obesity
  Friday, July 27, 2007
  Governor Ernie Fletcher’s statewide wellness initiative, Get Healthy Kentucky (GHK), is one of only 10 recipients nationally to receive grant funding to help battle childhood obesity. GHK will receive $100,000 from the National Governors Association Center for Best Practices for the development of strategies and laws, and the analysis of existing programs.
• DPH Working with Federal Officials to Contain Botulism Outbreak
  Tuesday, July 24, 2007
  Public health scientists and food safety experts in Kentucky are working with federal officials to reduce the risk of possible foodborne illness in association with an outbreak of botulism affecting consumers in Texas and Indiana who ate canned hot dog chili sauce. No cases linked to this outbreak have been reported in Kentucky.
• Getting ready for the baby boomers; Regional meetings planned to reveal initial elder readiness survey results
  Monday, July 23, 2007
  How ready is your community for the aging baby boomer population? Find out at a series of 15 meetings scheduled around the state. The Kentucky Elder Readiness Initiative (KERI) recently completed a survey of Kentuckians to help gauge communities’ preparedness for the “graying of Kentucky.” Initial, area-specific results of that survey will be announced at the meetings which begin Aug. 7 in Maysville.
• Governor announces elimination of child care co-pays for qualifying families; State to infuse program with $45 million
  Tuesday, July 17, 2007
  Governor Ernie Fletcher and officials from the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) today announced an infusion of $45 million to the state’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) to make child care more affordable and simplify the process for providers.
• Human Services’ Safety Study Group to Meet Wednesday
  Tuesday, July 17, 2007
  The next meeting of the Department for Community Based Services’ human services worker safety study group is Wednesday. The meeting is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, July 18, at the Ramada Inn, 2143 N. Broadway, Lexington.
• State Health Department Launches New Volunteer Health Professionals Program
  Thursday, July 12, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) today announced the launch of the Kentucky Health Emergency Listing of Professionals for Surge (K HELPS) program, a state-based system to register medical professionals interested in volunteering to offer assistance during public health emergencies or disasters.
• Kentucky Suicide Prevention Group to Honor Country Music Band
  Wednesday, July 11, 2007
  The Kentucky Suicide Prevention Group (KSPG) is honoring country music band Emerson Drive today in Louisville for its recent number one hit “Moments,” a song lauded by mental health professionals for bringing awareness to suicide prevention.
• Proposals sought for new AmeriCorps programs
  Tuesday, July 10, 2007
  The Kentucky Commission on Community Volunteerism and Service in the Cabinet for Health and Family Services has issued a call for proposals for new AmeriCorps programs. Funding is available for programs of 10 or more members to address a range of unmet community needs.
• State Agencies Issue Two Fish Consumption Advisories in Pike County
  Thursday, July 05, 2007
  The Kentucky Departments for Public Health, Environmental Protection and Fish and Wildlife today issued fish consumption advisories due to elevated PCB and mercury levels for two bodies of water in Pike County: Knox Creek and Fishtrap Lake, including the portion of the Levisa Fork River above the lake to the Virginia state boundary in Pike County.
• Food Safety Tips for the Fourth of July
  Tuesday, July 03, 2007
  It’s summer - time for cookouts, picnics and eating outdoors. However, if food isn’t handled correctly, foodborne illness can ruin all of the fun. The Department for Public Health’s (DPH) food safety branch wants to remind cooks of some general food safety tips, particularly during the Fourth of July holiday when family barbecues and picnics are part of the tradition.
• National HIV Testing Day is June 27
  Tuesday, June 26, 2007
  In honor of National HIV Testing Day on June 27, the Kentucky Department for Public Health is promoting routine voluntary HIV testing for people 13-64 years old. The campaign comes on the heels of a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention initiative to incorporate routine testing nationwide. In Kentucky, the campaign for increased HIV testing runs during the June.
• AmeriCorps meeting needs through 11 state programs - 225 AmeriCorps members engaged in broad array of service projects
  Friday, June 22, 2007
  More than $2.7 million in grants from the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) will fund 11 state AmeriCorps programs throughout Kentucky for the 2007-08 program year, beginning in September.
• Annual African-American and Latino Youth HIV-AIDS Conference Set
  Tuesday, June 19, 2007
  The Department for Public Health’s (DPH) seventh annual African-American and Latino Youth Conference on HIV/AIDS is set for Saturday, June 23, at the Lexington Traditional Magnet School, 350 N. Limestone, Lexington.
• Fayette County Workshop to Focus on Race in Child Welfare System; Forum is Wednesday evening on UK campus
  Tuesday, June 19, 2007
  The “Race, Community and Child Welfare Summit: Addressing the Crisis in Fayette County” will be from 4 to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, June 20, at the Worsham Theater in the University of Kentucky Student Center in Lexington. The Student Center is at 404 S. Limestone St. The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, the state agency responsible for child welfare services, is cosponsoring the event with LexLinc and UK’s Office of Community Engagement.
• Elder abuse prevention efforts recognized; Rally honors groups, individuals working to protect seniors
  Friday, June 15, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), the Kentucky Association of Gerontology, AARP, the Office of the Attorney General and the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse sponsored Kentucky Elder Abuse Awareness Day today to coincide with World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
• DPH Sets Mercury Collection Event for Local Health Departments
  Thursday, June 14, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) is working to become “mercury free” and is broadening its efforts to local health departments (LHDs). On June 19, DPH officials will hold a collection for LHDs to retrieve all mercury-containing items from their inventories.
• Tom Emberton Jr. Named CHFS Deputy Secretary
  Friday, June 08, 2007
  Tom Emberton Jr. has been named deputy secretary in the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS).
• Kentucky Diabetes Educator to Lead National Diabetes Organization
  Friday, June 08, 2007
  A staff member from the Green River District Health Department has been elected to serve as president of the American Association of Diabetes Educators (AADE).
• Capitol Rally to Spotlight Elder Abuse Prevention; Public invited to June 15 event
  Thursday, June 07, 2007
  The public is invited to a rally next week recognizing the efforts to protect older Kentuckians and stop elder abuse. The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFSis co-sponsoring Kentucky Elder Abuse Awareness Day on Friday, June 15. The event will begin at 10 a.m. in the Capitol rotunda and coincides with World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
• Department for Public Health, Trust for Life to Launch Electronic Organ Donor Registry
  Thursday, June 07, 2007
  Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) officials today announced the creation of a new electronic state organ donor registry, which available through the Circuit Court Clerks’ offices. Governor Ernie Fletcher and the Kentucky General Assembly strongly supported the new registry, which will provide an electronic database of everyone in Kentucky who has indicated his or her wish to become an organ donor. The registry is designed to improve the speed of identifying possible organ donors.
• Two Kentuckians Identified as Passengers on TB Patient's Flight
  Friday, June 01, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) has learned from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that two Kentuckians have been identified so far as being on an international flight earlier this month with the patient with extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB). Though the CDC believes the risk of illness in other passengers is low, the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness is conducting precautionary follow-up evaluation and testing on these individuals.
• State Agencies Reissue Ohio Fish Consumption Advisories
  Wednesday, May 30, 2007
  The Kentucky Departments of Public Health, Environmental Protection and Fish and Wildlife today reissued fish consumption advisories for the Ohio River bordering Kentucky. Flathead catfish in the river’s lower reach have now been added to the advisory list, which otherwise remains unchanged.
• State Health Department Unveils New Statewide Emergency Communications System
  Tuesday, May 29, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) has announced the creation of the Kentucky Public Health Interoperable Communication System (KPHICS), a wide-ranging program that will allow interoperable communications and incident management between the state and local health departments statewide.
• State seeks input on preventing child abuse; Hardin County meeting is May 31
  Friday, May 25, 2007
  Hardin County residents are invited to a meeting this month to help develop ways to keep the region’s children safe. The meeting will be from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 31, in room 303 of the Occupational Technical Building of Elizabethtown Community College.
• Put Food Safety First This Memorial Day
  Friday, May 25, 2007
  Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial kick-off to the outdoor grilling season. For this reason, the Food Safety Branch in the Kentucky Department for Public Health urges everyone to follow food safety guidelines to prevent the onset of food borne illness.
• Survey out now will measure state’s readiness for aging boom; Selected households strongly urged to complete, return questionnaire
  Thursday, May 24, 2007
  Researchers are collecting and analyzing survey data to help citizens and communities determine where they stand - as well as where they want to be - in their level of readiness to serve the needs of aging baby boomers.
• State offers elder abuse awareness license plate; Proceeds will fund local prevention outreach efforts; commitments needed by May 30
  Wednesday, May 23, 2007
  Kentuckians can become a driving force in helping local groups prevent elder abuse by committing to the purchase of a specialized vehicle license plate. The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services is promoting the sale of the elder abuse awareness license plates.
• State’s foster parents honored for excellent service; Nine parents and couples receive awards
  Friday, May 18, 2007
  Nine parents and couples from across the state were honored today for their excellent service as foster parents to Kentucky’s most vulnerable children. The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), the state agency that oversees the public foster care system, awarded the parents Excellence in Service Awards.
• Mayfield Middle Named Winners of Kentucky Kids Move It
  Thursday, May 17, 2007
  The Kentucky Diabetes Network (KDN) today announced that Mayfield Middle School is the winner of the statewide “Kentucky Kids Move It!” competition, earning the school $1,000 for students’ dedication to physical activity and leading healthy lifestyles.The money is given to the school’s wellness committee to promote a healthy environment. The announcement was made at the Western Kentucky middle school during an event that also included a healthy eating presentation by the Purchase District Health Department.
• National Rankings Find More Kentuckians Have Health Coverage
  Thursday, May 17, 2007
  While the rest of the country has seen the number of uninsured people continue to rise, the Kaiser Family Foundation, a well-respected national think tank, released data on April 26 ranking Kentucky No. 1 in the nation in the growth of employer health insurance and fourth in the drop in the number of uninsured people.
• State’s foster parents to be honored at Frankfort reception
  Wednesday, May 16, 2007
  Nine parents and couples from across the state will be honored at a Foster Care Month reception in Frankfort on Friday. The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), the state agency that oversees the public foster care system, will present the parents with Excellence in Service Awards.
• State announces funding for Fayette child abuse prevention projects; Community programs focus on early intervention, collaboration through Partners in Prevention
  Friday, May 11, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) has announced funding for three Fayette County programs focused on reducing child abuse and neglect. The programs will be funded through the Department for Community Based Services’ (DCBS) Partners in Prevention program.
• Kentucky Resource Market among nationally honored independence programs
  Thursday, May 10, 2007
• Kentucky AmeriCorps members in the spotlight for AmeriCorps Week
  Thursday, May 10, 2007
  During National AmeriCorps Week, May 13-20, AmeriCorps programs across Kentucky will sponsor special events to say “thanks for the hospitality” to their host communities and to promote national service.
• Richmond event to focus on elder abuse recognition, prevention; Financial exploitation to be highlighted in mock trial
  Thursday, May 10, 2007
  Richmond-area residents who want to learn more about elder abuse recognition and prevention are invited to a workshop later this month. As part of Elder Abuse Prevention Month, the Council on Elder Maltreatment Prevention (CEMP) is sponsoring its annual symposium on elder abuse awareness and vulnerable adult maltreatment prevention on Thursday, May 17, at the Perkins Building on Richmond’s Eastern Kentucky University campus.
• Governor’s Office and USTA Kentucky Promote Local Tennis Events
  Monday, May 07, 2007
  The Governor’s Office of Wellness and Physical Activity (GOWPA) and the United States Tennis Association (USTA) – Kentucky are working together to promote local tennis events across the commonwealth in the month of May. Throughout the month of May, which is designated by USTA as “Tennis Month” across the country, local communities across the commonwealth will be hosting Tennis Block Parties.
• HIV/AIDS Conference Set for May 9-11
  Wednesday, May 02, 2007
  Registrations will be accepted on site for the 2007 Kentucky HIV/AIDS Conference, an annual event to help raise awareness of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) and Heartland CARES Inc., of Paducah, are co-hosting the event, set for May 9-11 at the Radisson Plaza Hotel in Lexington.
• Get Healthy – Run the GHK 5K May 12
  Tuesday, May 01, 2007
  Kentucky’s runners and walkers should mark May 12 on their calendars and get registered for a Get Healthy Kentucky 5K, a 3.1-mile fun run/walk for people of all fitness levels. The road races are scheduled to take place at several locations around the state.
• State Health Department Releases Updated Pandemic Influenza Readiness Plan
  Tuesday, May 01, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) has released an updated state pandemic influenza (flu) readiness plan aimed at protecting Kentucky residents in the event of a worldwide epidemic of flu.
• State changing child protective services practices; Improvements will give birth parents greater access to due process
  Tuesday, April 24, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) is making several changes to the state’s child protection services practices to improve the equity of the process for families and ensure the best outcomes for children in state foster care. CHFS Secretary Mark D. Birdwhistell announced the changes, which do not require legislative action, at today’s meeting of the blue ribbon panel on adoption.
• State Health Department Receives High Rating for SNS Preparedness
  Monday, April 23, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) announced that Kentucky has received one of the highest ratings -- a “green minus” -- from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for its level of preparedness to receive and dispense medications and supplies through the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) program.
• Adoption Blue Ribbon Panel Meeting Scheduled for April 24
  Friday, April 20, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services’ blue ribbon panel on adoption is scheduled to meet next week. The meeting will be from 1 to 4 p.m. in room 154 of the Capitol Annex on Tuesday, April 24, and is open to the public.
• Governor Fletcher Announces Funding for After-School Teen Project; Six-county pilot begins in Barren and McCracken
  Friday, April 13, 2007
  Governor Ernie Fletcher today announced $150,000 in state funding to launch an after-school project to help at-risk teens and pre-teens in two counties. The Youth Promise Program for teens will begin this spring at the Boys and Girls Club of Glasgow/Barren County and the Oscar Cross Boys and Girls Club in McCracken County. Each club will receive $75,000 for their teen after-school efforts. The project will expand to four more counties later this year.
• Governor’s awards, local projects among highlights of Volunteer Week in Kentucky
  Friday, April 13, 2007
  Governor Ernie Fletcher has proclaimed April 15-21 Volunteer Week in Kentucky. The state observance coincides with National Volunteer Week.
• Media Advisory: Ceremony to honor volunteer award winners
  Monday, April 09, 2007
  Cabinet for Health and Family Services Undersecretary Tom Emberton Jr. will present the 2006 Governor’s Awards for Outstanding Volunteer Service at 2:30 p.m. on Monday, April 16, at the Capitol Rotunda in Frankfort. Sixteen winners, including adults, youth and groups, will be honored for outstanding volunteer service in 11 award categories. The Kentucky Commission on Community Volunteerism and Service, an agency of CHFS, sponsors the annual awards program.
• HIV/AIDS Conference Set for May 9-11
  Thursday, April 05, 2007
  To heighten awareness of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, public health officials from across the commonwealth will gather in downtown Lexington next month for the 2007 Kentucky HIV/AIDS Conference.
• Governor Fletcher Announces Project Targeting Racial Disparity in Child Welfare System
  Tuesday, April 03, 2007
  Governor Ernie Fletcher and leaders from the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) today announced a comprehensive project to target racial disproportionality in the child welfare system. The child welfare system includes the community, its people and systems that report abuse and neglect to child protective services and those that respond and provide services.
• Public Health Promotes Kidney Screenings
  Tuesday, April 03, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) is promoting kidney health throughout April and May, encouraging members of the public to take advantage of free screenings around the commonwealth. The Kidney Early Evaluation Program (KEEP), a free screening for those at increased risk of developing kidney disease, will be offered at various locations.
• CHFS April Public Meetings
  Monday, April 02, 2007
• Governor Announces New Web Site for Information on Health Care Quality
  Wednesday, March 28, 2007
  Governor Ernie Fletcher today announced the creation of the Health Care Information Center, a new, comprehensive resource to help Kentucky consumers become more informed about the quality of health care throughout the commonwealth. The Office of Health Policy (OHP) in the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), working with the Kentucky Hospital Association, developed the new Web site, http://healthdata.chfs.ky.gov, which details the quality of patient care received in Kentucky hospitals.
• Prematurity Prevention Partnership Launched
  Tuesday, March 27, 2007
  To reduce the rate of preventable preterm births in targeted areas of Kentucky, the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) joined the March of Dimes and Johnson and Johnson Pediatric Institute today to formally launch Healthy Babies Are Worth the WaitSM, a three-year partnership. The announcement was made at a news conference prior to the opening of the Kentucky Public Health Association’s annual meeting here.
• Focus on Public Health
  Tuesday, March 27, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) and the Kentucky Public Health Association (KPHA) are preparing for Public Health Week in Kentucky with a gubernatorial proclamation and the association’s annual conference in Louisville. Public Health Week and the KPHA Educational Conference are set for March 26-30. The state educational conference is set for March 26-29 at the Executive Inn West in Louisville.
• Batter Up!
  Friday, March 23, 2007
  The Sports Flash (TSF) Radio Network and Get Healthy Kentucky (GHK) are collaborating to reduce tobacco use in the commonwealth, launching the Kentucky “No Spit” All-Star campaign. This unique health promotion will take place throughout high school baseball season and will honor players who have taken the pledge not to use smokeless tobacco products, such as “spit” or “chew” tobacco.
• Golf Scramble to Benefit State’s Adoption Recruitment; Event at U of L’s Cardinal Club to feature former touring professional golfer Wally Armstrong
  Friday, March 23, 2007
  The Third Annual Kentucky Mulligan Invitational is scheduled for Monday, April 9, at the University of Louisville’s Cardinal Club, at 401 Champions Way, Simpsonville. It benefits Kentucky’s public adoption recruitment efforts. Former touring professional golfer and author Wally Armstrong will be the keynote speaker.
• Media Advisory
  Thursday, March 22, 2007
  Health and Family Services Acting Undersecretary for Health and Public Health Commissioner William Hacker, M.D., and Kentucky Public Health Association President Shawn Crabtree will discuss public health in Kentucky at an event at 9 a.m. Friday, March 23, in the Capitol Rotunda.
• Take the Risk, Take the Test
  Thursday, March 22, 2007
  In honor of American Diabetes Alert Day on March 27, the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) wants residents of the commonwealth to understand the health implications of diabetes and is encouraging Kentuckians to take a brief, online survey to test their risk of developing the disease. According to the DPH Diabetes Prevention and Control Program, an estimated 274,000 adult Kentuckians have diagnosed diabetes.
• Elliott County Human Services Office Relocates; Transitional office is on Junior Street
  Wednesday, March 21, 2007
  The Elliott County Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) office has relocated after a February fire destroyed its previous home. The new offices, leased by the state, are at Route 5, Box 1900, Junior Street in Sandy Hook. Staff is available from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays.
• Safe Infants Act Allows Parents to Safely Surrender Babies; 5-year-old law gives parents of newborns another option
  Tuesday, March 20, 2007
  For five years, pregnant women concerned about becoming parents have had help from a law that allows them to safely surrender their newborns. This law became effective in April 2002 and allows parents or someone acting on their behalf to anonymously place infants they cannot care for at selected “safe places.” The law has resulted in 15 babies being placed in the care of the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS).
• Learn More About Congenital Rubella Syndrome
  Wednesday, March 14, 2007
  The Bluegrass Regional Mental Health/Mental Retardation Board is hosting an educational workshop, “Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS): From Research to Practice,” to spread the word about CRS and its impact on mental health. The workshop will be March 22-23 at Bluegrass Regional offices, 1251 Newtown Pike, Lexington, and will feature presenters Nancy O’Donnell and Marlyn Minkin. Both have worked extensively with individuals affected by CRS.
• New Exam Issued for Registered Sanitarian Candidates
  Monday, March 12, 2007
  The Kentucky Registered Sanitarians (R.S.) Examining Committee, a part of the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), has implemented a new exam for people seeking their R.S. credential. The examining committee oversees the credentialing, examination and continuing education for all registered sanitarians - also known as environmental health specialists - in Kentucky.
• Earned Income Tax Credit Gives Families an Income Boost; Thousands of low-income Kentuckians are eligible but don’t apply
  Friday, March 09, 2007
  Families and individuals who meet certain guidelines could get more from their 2006 tax returns or regular paychecks by taking advantage of the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). With the April 17 tax filing deadline weeks away, the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services is reminding Kentuckians -- including those receiving welfare assistance -- that they may qualify for the federal EITC, a refundable income tax credit designed to benefit low-income families in which one or more person works.
• Be Aware of the Dangers of Colorectal Cancer
  Friday, March 09, 2007
  Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) officials are urging Kentuckians to be aware of the seriousness of colorectal cancer, and are encouraging Kentuckians to talk to their health care providers about screening for the disease. March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, the time of year when public health officials, health care providers and educators work to raise awareness about the disease.
• Hot Line Helps Parents Find Quality Child Care; Toll-free phone number is connection to information on day care providers
  Wednesday, March 07, 2007
  Find Kentucky Kid Care is a toll-free phone number that links parents and caregivers of children to their area Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agencies. The Division of Child Care in the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) administers the toll-free line. The phone number is (877) 316-3552.
• Kentucky Health Departments Receive National Award for Emergency Prerparedness
  Wednesday, March 07, 2007
  The Barren River District Health Department and the Monroe County Health Department were recently recognized for receiving the "Public Health Ready" designation for 2006 by the National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO).
• Cabinet for Health and Family Services MARCH 2007 Meetings
  Thursday, March 01, 2007
• Black Church Week of Prayer for the Healing of AIDS Set for March
  Wednesday, February 28, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) actively supports efforts to promote The Black Church Week of Prayer for the Healing of AIDS March 4-10, an observance that includes thousands of churches across the country. The Black Church Week of Prayer for the Healing of AIDS is dedicated to prayer and educational activities focused on the healing and prevention of HIV/AIDS, which continues to spread through the African-American community at a disproportionately higher rate than in other races and ethnicities.
• Event to support child advocacy center expansion - Judi's Place for Kids serves child sexual abuse victims in Eastern Ky.
  Tuesday, February 27, 2007
  A fundraising event is planned to help ease growing pains at Judi's Place for Kids child advocacy center in Pikeville.
• Grants available to help increase breast cancer survival rate
  Tuesday, February 27, 2007
  Proposals for grants from the state Breast Cancer Research and Education Trust Fund are now being accepted.
• Rotunda event kicks off Sexual Assault Awareness Month
  Monday, February 26, 2007
  The state Cabinet for Health and Family Services and the Kentucky Association of Sexual Assault Programs will host an event to kick off Sexual Assault Awareness Month on Thursday, March 1, starting at 11 a.m. in the Capitol Rotunda in Frankfort.
• ‘Diabetes Day at the Capitol’ Set for February
  Monday, February 26, 2007
  Diabetes remains one of the major public health concerns in Kentucky, where more than 339,400 people are affected by the debilitating disease. For that reason, the Kentucky Diabetes Network (KDN) and the American Diabetes Association (ADA) are sponsoring “Diabetes Day at the Capitol” in February to help raise awareness about the disease.
• Regina Washington Named Director of New Public Health Division
  Monday, February 19, 2007
  Cabinet for Health and Family Services Secretary Mark D. Birdwhistell announced today that Regina Washington, DrPH, has been named the director of the newly established division of prevention and quality improvement in the Department for Public Health (DPH). Sharma Klee will serve as acting assistant director of the division, which will focus on chronic diseases, disease management, the behavioral risk factor surveillance survey, quality improvement, occupational health, health care access and workforce development.
• DPH Identifies Nine Cases in Kentucky Related to National Salmonella Outbreak,
  Thursday, February 15, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) has identified nine cases of Salmonella in Kentuckians from September through January related to the multi-state outbreak announced yesterday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
• Be Through with Chew
  Wednesday, February 14, 2007
  In an effort to draw attention to the hazards of smokeless tobacco use, the Kentucky Department for Public Health’s (DPH) Tobacco Prevention and Cessation program is encouraging Kentuckians to be “Through with Chew” by participating in the Great American Spit Out Thursday, Feb. 22. “Through with Chew,” a public awareness campaign set for Feb. 18–24, is aimed at decreasing spit tobacco use and increasing knowledge of its negative health effects.
• Country star spins the Wheel to help Ashland child advocacy center
  Monday, February 12, 2007
  An Ashland children’s advocacy center is the beneficiary of Kentucky native Wynonna's appearance on Wheel of Fortune.
• Blue Ribbon Panel on Adoption Recommends Changes to Child Welfare System; Group’s ideas to be proposed in two bills
  Thursday, February 08, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services’ (CHFS) blue ribbon panel on adoption made recommendations today for changes regarding protection of parental and family rights in the child welfare system. At the group’s meeting this morning, Sen. Julie Denton, R-Louisville, described her legislative proposal, which makes several amendments to statutes regarding rights of parents whose children are removed from their custody.
• State’s human services program reaccredited; Department meets Council on Accreditation’s national best practice standards
  Thursday, February 08, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services’ (CHFS) Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) – the state’s human services agency – has been reaccredited by the Council on Accreditation (COA). The reaccreditation means that DCBS’ child and adult protective services and foster care and adoption programs meet the highest national standards and deliver the best quality services to the community.
• Louisville Adoption Recruitment Efforts Funded by Wendy’s Grant; Child-specific program established in every state
  Wednesday, February 07, 2007
  A $63,000 grant from the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption (DTFA) funds adoption recruitment efforts – including the salary of a new staff member – in the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services’ (CHFS) Jefferson County Region.
• Fire Closes Elliott County Human Services Office
  Tuesday, February 06, 2007
• State Public Health Officials Address Raw Milk Use in Kentucky
  Tuesday, February 06, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) wants consumers to be aware of the dangers of raw milk, an unpasteurized product that could potentially contain numerous life-threatening contaminants such as E. coli.
• Blue Ribbon Panel Members to Address Parental Rights Legislation; Media availability scheduled after group’s meeting
  Tuesday, February 06, 2007
  Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services Secretary Mark D. Birdwhistell and members of the state’s blue ribbon panel on adoption will address media questions after the group’s meeting Thursday. The media availability is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 8, in room 125 of the Capitol Annex.
• Mark A. Washington named commissioner of Department for Community Based Services
  Tuesday, February 06, 2007
  Mark A. Washington has been named commissioner of the Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) in the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS).
• P.J. Cooksey featured in breast cancer ads
  Tuesday, February 06, 2007
  Patricia “P.J.” Cooksey, the second-winningest female jockey in history and a breast cancer survivor, is featured in a radio and TV commercial airing this month to promote the state Breast Cancer Research and Education Trust Fund.
• Federal Grant given for Medicaid Transformation
  Monday, February 05, 2007
• Strader named state long-term care ombudsman
  Monday, February 05, 2007
  Cabinet for Health and Family Services Secretary Mark D. Birdwhistell has announced the appointment of Jacqueline R. Strader as the state long-term care ombudsman.
• National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day Events Planned
  Monday, February 05, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health strongly supports national efforts to heighten public awareness of HIV/AIDS during this year’s National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day on Feb. 7.
• Deadline extended for governor’s volunteer awards nominations - Nominations for annual awards due Feb. 15
  Friday, February 02, 2007
  The deadline for nominations for the 2006 Governor’s Awards for Outstanding Volunteer Service has been extended to Feb. 15. The awards program recognizes extraordinary volunteers whose selfless service meets local needs and improves the lives of others.
• Adoption Blue Ribbon Panel Meeting Scheduled for Feb. 8
  Friday, February 02, 2007
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services’ blue ribbon panel on adoption is scheduled to meet from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. in room 125 of the Capitol Annex on Thursday, Feb. 8. It is open to the public.
• Ceremony to mark reaccreditation of state’s human services program
  Friday, February 02, 2007
  The public is invited to a ceremony marking the reaccreditation of the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services’ (CHFS) Department for Community Based Services (DCBS). An award ceremony is scheduled for 8:45 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 8, in the Capitol rotunda. DCBS – the state’s human services agency – has been reaccredited by the Council on Accreditation (COA).
• Cabinet for Health and Family Services FEBRUARY 2007 Meetings
  Thursday, February 01, 2007
• Herklotz Named CHFS General Counsel
  Thursday, February 01, 2007
• Pregnant Women Should Get a Flu Vaccine
  Tuesday, January 30, 2007
  Pregnancy can increase the risk for complications from the flu, such as pneumonia, making it even more important for expectant mothers to get a flu vaccine.
• Language Access Program Receives National Recognition
  Monday, January 29, 2007
  The Language Access Program (LAP) in the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) has been recognized as a national model for providing interpretation and translation services in the health community by the National Health Law Program (NHeLP).
• Governor Fletcher Announces $7 Million More in Energy Assistance Funds This Year
  Monday, January 29, 2007
  Governor Ernie Fletcher has announced that the state’s energy assistance fund has $7 million more in available funds this year than last year to help Kentuckians in need of assistance with heating bills. The state’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a short-term aid program that operates its first phase -- subsidy – (the dashes are different than used for crisis) in November and December and is available to clients at or below 130 percent of the federal poverty guidelines.
• Kentucky AmeriCorps members give program high marks
  Monday, January 29, 2007
  Kentucky AmeriCorps members consistently rank their satisfaction with their programs higher than the national average, according to a recent survey.
• Shelby County Grand Jury Indicts Six for Welfare Fraud
  Friday, January 19, 2007
• Flu Deemed ‘Widespread’ in Kentucky
  Thursday, January 18, 2007
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) announced today that flu activity in the commonwealth is now considered “widespread,” a designation indicating increased flu-like activity or flu outbreaks in at least half of the regions in a state. Five other states have been given this designation in the Weekly United States Influenza Surveillance Report.
• Governor’s Get Healthy Kentucky Initiative Kicks off with Launch of Web site
  Tuesday, January 16, 2007
  For Kentuckians who’ve made getting healthy their New Year’s resolution, finding the tools to achieve their goal will be a whole lot easier in 2007 thanks to Governor Fletcher’s new initiative, Get Healthy Kentucky (GHK). The program is charged with constructing a statewide wellness plan for all residents, including access to reliable, unbiased information on the GHK Web site, www.gethealthy.ky.gov.
• Public can offer suggestions to child welfare system at forum; Birth parents whose children have been in state custody invited
  Thursday, January 11, 2007
  Parents with suggestions to improve the state’s child protection services will have the opportunity to voice their ideas at a public forum next week in Frankfort. The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) is hosting the forum from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 17, in room 169 of the Capitol Annex.
• Cabinet responds to internal adoption investigation report
  Thursday, January 11, 2007
  The Office of Inspector General (OIG) in the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) has issued a report detailing findings of its year-long investigation of child protective services in the former Lincoln Trail Region, particularly Hardin County. CHFS Secretary Mark D. Birdwhistell said the report highlights several areas his staff is already addressing.
• HIV/AIDS Planning and Advisory Council Accepting Applications for New Members
  Monday, January 08, 2007
  The Kentucky HIV/AIDS Planning and Advisory Council (KHPAC) continues to accept applications for new council members. KHPAC, which first met in March 2006, was created from the former HIV/AIDS Advisory Council and the former HIV/AIDS Prevention Community Planning Group.
• Cabinet for Health and Family Services JANUARY Meetings
  Wednesday, January 03, 2007
• DPH Earns Grant Funding to Improve WIC Program
  Thursday, December 28, 2006
  The Department for Public Health (DPH) announced today that the Kentucky WIC (Women, Infants and Children) Program has been awarded more than $2.1 million in competitive grant funds to help improve the program’s efficiency and the way clients are served.
• PANTA Resource Available for Educators, Community Partners
  Friday, December 22, 2006
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) and the Department of Education have released the Physical Activity, Nutrition, Tobacco and Asthma (PANTA) School Resource Guide 2006, an essential classroom tool for instruction on health and wellness - fundamentals of Governor Ernie Fletcher’s Get Healthy Kentucky initiative.
• Remember Food Safety This Holiday Season
  Friday, December 22, 2006
  The holidays are filled with delicious tempting treats, but the festive atmosphere doesn’t provide a pass to ignore the Kentucky Department for Public Health’s (DPH) food safety recommendations.
• Food Stamp Program Gets $1.5 Million Bonus for Excellent Customer Service; Kentucky gets federal award for second consecutive year
  Thursday, December 21, 2006
  Federal officials were in Frankfort today to award Kentucky’s Food Stamp Program almost $1.5 million in bonus federal funds for its exemplary service delivery. Kentucky was one of six states to earn a bonus for the highest percentage of timely processed food stamp applications. This is the second consecutive year the Department for Community Based Services (DCBS), the agency that administers the state’s food benefits program, has earned the award.
• Tom Emberton Jr. named undersecretary of Children and Family Services
  Tuesday, December 19, 2006
  Tom Emberton Jr. has been named undersecretary of Children and Family Services in the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS). Emberton has served as commissioner of the cabinet’s Department for Community Based Services (DCBS), the state’s social services agency, since July 2005.
• Cabinet for Health and Family Services Releases New Teen Smoking Statistics
  Monday, December 18, 2006
  The Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) today released results from the 2006 Kentucky Youth Tobacco Survey (KYTS) that show a continued decline in youth smoking rates statewide and an encouraging change in young people’s attitudes about smoking and the use of tobacco products.
• Department for Public Health Urges Kentuckians to Get Holiday Flu Shots
  Friday, December 15, 2006
• Kentucky Scores Eight Out of 10 in Bioterrorism Preparedness Study
  Wednesday, December 13, 2006
  A report released today by Trust for America’s Health (TFAH) highlighted Kentucky’s progress in preparing to respond to acts of bioterrorism or public health emergencies. Kentucky achieved eight out of 10 criteria used to measure states’ preparedness, ranking in the top 10 percent nationally.
• CHFS Inspector General’s Welfare Fraud Investigation Yields Prison Time for Kentucky Man
  Wednesday, December 13, 2006
• State begins issuing payments through debit cards; Electronic payments begin for child support recipients, child care assistance providers
  Tuesday, December 12, 2006
  Child support customers and child care providers who get state funding to serve low-income families may find it easier to secure their funds thanks to a new debit card program introduced recently by the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services’ Department for Community Based Services (DCBS).
• Adoption Blue Ribbon Panel Meeting Scheduled for Dec. 14
  Monday, December 11, 2006
  The fourth meeting of the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services’ blue ribbon panel on adoption is from 1:30 to 4 p.m. in room 171 of the Capitol Annex on Thursday, Dec. 14, and is open to the public.
• First Influenza Cases Confirmed in Fayette, Woodford County Residents
  Monday, December 11, 2006
• Oakwood Task Force Concludes Work Report to House Bill 144 Commission Indicates Continuing Improvement
  Wednesday, December 06, 2006
• e-Health Summit to Draw Leaders in Health Care, Business
  Wednesday, December 06, 2006
  The Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) and the Kentucky e-Health Network Board will sponsor the state’s first e-Health Summit in January to unite various stakeholders in health care, public health, business, academia, technology and policy communities.
• DPH, OIG Work to Prevent Illness Outbreak in Nursing Facilities
  Monday, December 04, 2006
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) and the Office of Inspector General (OIG) in the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) have developed guidelines to help nursing homes in Kentucky prevent and control the outbreak of gastrointestinal illnesses.
• Deadline Extended to Accept e-Prescribing Grant Applications
  Friday, December 01, 2006
  The Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) will continue to accept applications for the e-Prescribing grant program, a CHFS and e-Health Network Board initiative to strengthen Kentucky’s e-Health infrastructure and foster partnerships among health care organizations across the state.
• State Announces $80,000 Grant for McCracken Drug Treatment Services; Funding will help families at risk for child abuse
  Thursday, November 30, 2006
  The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) today presented an $80,000 check to McCracken County officials for a substance abuse prevention and early intervention initiative.
• Tuition Waiver Gives Adoptive Families a Financial Boost
  Thursday, November 30, 2006
  The adoption tuition assistance benefit, a state subsidy that pays for tuition to in-state public colleges or technical schools, gives Kentucky's adoptive families a financial boost. The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services administers the benefit.
• Cabinet for Health and Family Services DECEMBER Meetings
  Wednesday, November 29, 2006
• DPH, University of Kentucky Honored for Dental Partnership
  Wednesday, November 22, 2006
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) and the University of Kentucky (UK) College of Dentistry recently received national recognition for their collaboration to improve the dental health status of residents across the commonwealth. State health officials were on hand in Boston recently to receive the American Public Health Association (APHA)/GlaxoSmithKline Partnership for Healthy Children Award for the Kentucky Dental Public Health Partnership. The honor was presented at the APHA’s 13th annual meeting.
• If Frying a Turkey This Holiday Season, Follow Precautions
  Wednesday, November 22, 2006
• DPH, University of Kentucky Honored for Dental Partnership
  Tuesday, November 21, 2006
  The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) and the University of Kentucky (UK) College of Dentistry recently received national recognition for their collaboration to improve the dental health status of residents across the commonwealth. State health officials were on hand in Boston recently to receive the American Public Health Association (APHA)/GlaxoSmithKline Partnership for Healthy Children Award for the Kentucky Dental Public Health Partnership. The honor was presented at the
• Keep Your Food Safe
  Tuesday, November