goBroomeCounty.com News Releases

Binghamton Senators/Tobacco Free Dream Team (2008-12-19: Health Dept - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 19:12:00 -0500

Winners Announced

December 16, 2008 - The Binghamton Senators, Tobacco Free Broome and Tioga and Reality Check would like to announce the winners of the 2009 Binghamton Senators/Tobacco Free Dream Team for 2009. Entrants collected signatures from community members who support the reduction of tobacco advertising at retail stores and completed a form noting the number and location of tobacco ads at local stores. The eight winners are: Nicolai Anderson, Haleigh Cleveland, Katelinn Cummings, Cassidy Deubler, Jaden Finch, Yelena Pecheny, Brianna Polovchak, and Matt Windnagel. They were chosen based on completion of all data on the observation form and the number of signatures they received. A total of 789 signatures were received from all entrants. These signature forms will be used when working with local tobacco retailers to show community support for reducing tobacco advertising. Research shows that youth exposure to tobacco advertising increases the likelihood that they will start smoking.

Winners will receive an official B-Sens jersey, hockey tickets, B-Sens memorabilia, and appear on a TV commercial with the Binghamton Senators that will air early next year. Winners will be officially recognized at the January 24 B-Sens home game when they will be announced to the fans prior to the game.

To learn more about the work of Tobacco Free Broome and Tioga, log onto www.tobaccofreebt.org or call Tobacco Free Broome at the Broome County Health Department at 607.778.3068. For more information about Reality Check, log onto www.nothanksbigtobacco.org.

Broome County Health Department Flu Clinic Cancelled (2008-12-19: Health Dept - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 14:11:38 -0500

BINGHAMTON, NY - Please be advised that the Flu Clinic scheduled at the Broome County Health Department today is cancelled due to the weather forecast. There will be another Flu Clinic held on Wednesday, January 7, 2009, 3:00-5:00 p.m. at the Broome County Health Department, 225 Front Street, Binghamton, New York.

The Broome County Health Department has a sufficient amount of flu vaccine available and will provide this last flu clinic for adults on January 7, 2009. No appointment is necessary. The fee for the flu vaccination is $30 payable at the time of service by cash or check (debit or credit cards are not accepted). There is no out of pocket fee for adults 65 and older on Medicare Part B.

Vaccinations for pneumonia will also be available for people 65 and older on Medicare Part B with no out of pocket cost. Individuals on Medicare must present all insurance cards to staff at the clinic. The $30 fee applies to all Medicare Advantage Plan participants.

To underscore the CDC's recommendations that children older than 6 months get vaccinated against the flu, a flu clinic for children ages 6 months through 18 years will be held on December 29, 2008, from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. by appointment only. The fee for the vaccination will vary based on household income. The cost for the vaccine will not exceed $17.85. To schedule an appointment for your child/children call the Broome County Health Department at 607.778.2839.

Executive Fiala Votes as Member of Electoral College (2008-12-15: Executive - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 12:52:32 -0500

Broome County Executive Barbara J. Fiala traveled to Albany today to cast her vote for the nation's President and Vice President as a member of New York State's Electoral College. New York has a total of 31 electoral members, one for each member of Congress. All New York State delegates will convene in the Senate Chamber for the procedural session today. Electoral votes from the nation's fifty states will be counted on January 6th during a joint Congressional session.

"This election will forever be looked upon as one of the most historical in our nation's history," said County Executive Barbara J. Fiala. "I am proud to take part in the process of electing the President and Vice President of the United States."

Broome County Transit Junction to Relocate (2008-12-12: Executive - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 11:34:17 -0500

From Court St. between Carroll St. and Fayette St. to the Parking lot on the corner of Hawley and Carroll Streets

Beginning Monday, December 22, 2008, the Broome County Transit Junction in downtown Binghamton will move from its current location on Court St. between Carroll and Fayette Streets, to a recently acquired parking lot one block away, on the corner of Hawley and Carroll Streets. The new transit office will be located at 124 Hawley Street, Binghamton.

"The reason for the move, is to address safety concerns," said George Bagnetto Commissioner of Transportation "This newly acquired parking lot will better serve our transit operations and improve safety. At the new junction, riders of our system will not have to cross traffic lanes to access our buses."

On August 25th, 2008 the BC Junction relocated to Court Street due to construction work on the George Harvey Justice Building and the Government Parking Complex. This recent move will relocate the junction to a county owned parking lot on the corner Hawley and Carroll Streets. The new junction location will improve safety by allowing riders to transfer buses without having to cross traffic lanes.

The expanded parking lot location provides a newly paved area where there will be less chance of slips, trips and falls due to uneven sidewalks, snow or ice. This new location is especially easier for workers to maintain when there is snowfall. Snow removal at the junction will be provided by the county.

For further information, contact Broome County Transit at 607.778.1692.

RESCHEDULED: Airport Master Plan Public Information Session (2008-12-12: Executive - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 11:29:17 -0500

Due to inclement weather, this evening's public information workshop for the Greater Binghamton Airport Master Plan has been rescheduled to Monday, December 15th, 2008. The workshop will be held from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM in the Airport Observation Deck at the Airport Terminal Building located at 2534 Airport Road, Johnson City, New York 13790. The Airport Observation Deck is located on the terminal's 2nd floor at the left end of the building (near the rental car counters).

Representatives from McFarland-Johnson, Inc. will present exhibits illustrating the master planning process and presenting the draft recommended program of airport improvements over the next ten to twenty years. Representatives from the airport and McFarland-Johnson, Inc. will be available to answer questions and receive comments.

Airport Master Plan Public Information Session (2008-12-12: Executive - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 09:46:19 -0500

The Broome County Department of Aviation is updating the Airport Master Plan for the Greater Binghamton Airport. A public information workshop for this project will be held on Thursday, December 11, 2008 from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM in the Airport Observation Deck at the Airport Terminal Building located at 2534 Airport Road, Johnson City, New York 13790. The Airport Observation Deck is located on the terminal's 2nd floor at the left end of the building (near the rental car counters).
Representatives from McFarland-Johnson, Inc. will present exhibits illustrating the master planning process and presenting the draft recommended program of airport improvements over the next ten to twenty years. Representatives from the airport and McFarland-Johnson, Inc. will be available to answer questions and receive comments.

Broome County Veterans Memorial Arena Receives New Roof (2008-12-12: Executive - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 09:37:06 -0500

During this holiday season the Broome County Veterans Memorial Arena in downtown Binghamton, is receiving a new roof. The estimated $560,000 construction project began in the fall and is continuing through December with completion expected in the spring. Local roofing contractor, Weathermaster Roofing Company, Inc. was awarded the contract to replace the 84,000 sq. ft. roof.

When evaluating materials to use in the construction, the county decided to make an energy conscious decision to change the color of the roof from black to white. Using the Energy Star Roofing Calculator at www.roofcalc.com, the county estimated a savings of $7,728.82 in cooling and heating costs with the installation of a reflective roof. Within seven years the savings would also cover the $27,415 difference in cost from choosing white rather than black roofing material.

"By selecting to install a reflective white roof at the Arena we are seeking to reduce our energy consumption by 2% a year," said Mike Lynch Deputy Commissioner of Public Works. "This new roof will reduce the buildings heat absorption and therefore reduce heating and cooling costs."

The Heat Island Group, a leading research arm based in Berkeley California monitored buildings in Sacramento, CA with lightly colored, more reflective roofs. They found that buildings with such roof materials in place used up to 40% less energy for cooling than buildings with darker roofs.

The Arena roof project consists of applying a FleeceBACK adhered roofing system, and replacing damaged or worn areas. The FleeceBACK roofing system has a 15 year Manufacturer's warranty. The older roof on the Broome County Veterans Memorial Arena was installed in the mid eighties.

Broome County STOP-DWI Holiday Classic (2008-12-11: Executive - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 09:12:44 -0500

Broome County STOP-DWI is pleased to announce the schools competing in the 17th Annual STOP-DWI Holiday Classic that will be played December 27th -30th at the Broome County Veterans Memorial Arena, Binghamton, New York.

The STOP-DWI Holiday Classic is recognized as one of the premier holiday high school basketball invitational tournaments in the country. The STOP-DWI Holiday Classic will again feature an eight team national division and two four team regional divisions.

Challenging for 2008 National Division honors will be reigning New York State Public High School and Federation Champion Jamesville-Dewitt High School (Syracuse area) and three former STOP-DWI Holiday Classic champions: Bishop Ford High School (Brooklyn, New York) '92; Simon-Gratz High School (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) '03 and Taft High School (Cincinnati, Ohio) '05. Rounding out the tourney field are Cypress Bay High School (Weston, Florida); Franklin County High School (Frankfort, Kentucky) and Wings Academy (Bronx, New York). Binghamton High School is the host school and tournament co-sponsor.

Key players to watch are New York State Player of the Year Brandon Triche (Jamesville-Dewitt) who has verbally committed to Syracuse University; Chaz Williams (Bishop Ford), one of the top rated guards in New York City who will play for Hofstra University; 6'7" Blake Foeman (Cypress Bay) who signed with University of Denver as well as 6'5" Richard Harris (Taft) and 6'7" Cory Hunter (Taft) who are ranked in the top 100 recruits of this year's senior class.

Local teams invited to compete for the regional division honors are:

Regional Division I Regional Division II

Union Endicott High School Maine Endwell High School

Endicott, New York Endwell, New York

Seton Catholic Central Candor Central School

Binghamton, New York Candor, New York

Norwich High School Unatego High School

Norwich, New York Otego, New York

Vestal High School Windsor High School

Vestal, New York Windsor, New York

"Broome County's STOP-DWI Holiday Classic is a much anticipated holiday tradition that delivers an important message via high school basketball competition," said Broome County Executive Barbara J. Fiala. "Without the energy of the organizers and the support of the many sponsors, the Broome County STOP-DWI would not have become the successful tournament that it is today. I welcome all players and fans to our Broome County Veterans Memorial Arena to watch the remarkable display of skill and athleticism this December."

The STOP-DWI Holiday Classic is a project of the Broome County STOP-DWI Program that promotes an anti-substance abuse and drunk driving message to student athletes. For more information visit www.cdc.gov/flu.

Executive Fiala Joins County Leaders in Albany To Share Support for Responsible State Budget Reductions (2008-12-08: Executive - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 14:45:37 -0500

In Albany last week, Broome County Executive Barbara J. Fiala joined fifteen other county leaders and NYSAC officials to discuss current fiscal conditions with members of Governor Paterson's administration. County leaders offered their support to work with state leaders to reduce state spending without creating increases in local property taxes. Governor David Paterson will submit his 2009-'10 budget to the state Legislature on December 16, 2008.

"Our economy is struggling," stated County Executive Barbara Fiala, incoming president of the New York State County Executives Association (NYSAC). "We are seeing higher unemployment rates, tightening financing opportunities for new and existing businesses, and growing health care costs, and a state budget deficit that threatens the stream of state funding going to many of the programs and services we provide. The answer is not shifting the cost on the backs of our taxpayers."

Continuing, Executive Fiala acknowledged Governor Paterson's efforts to address the state's financial difficulties. "I applaud Governor Paterson for his leadership during this financial crisis and I looking forward to working with him, in state-county partnership, to close the budget gap without increasing the local tax burden. We are one state and we need to work together."

For more information and media from the conference visit: http://www.nysac.org/

Safe Winter Driving Tips (2008-12-05: Health Dept TS - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 09:53:08 -0500

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, transportation crashes are the leading cause of death during winter

County Sponsors Winter Film (2008-12-04: Executive - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 16:52:47 -0500

"Happy Feet" at the Forum Theater

Today, Broome County Executive Barbara J. Fiala announced on Friday, December 26th at 2pm the Forum Theater will host a free presentation of the winter film "Happy Feet". An organ pre-show will begin at 1:15pm provided by the Broome County Theater Organ Society. The Broome County Forum is located at 236 Washington Street in downtown Binghamton. For more information about upcoming events at the Forum please go to: http://broomeforum.com/

"Happy Feet" is rated PG and was released in 2006 by Warner Bros. Pictures. Visit the film website at: http://www2.warnerbros.com/happyfeet/ for more information.

Free Open Skate at Broome County Veteran’s Memorial Arena (2008-11-25: Executive - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 15:42:35 -0500

Broome County Executive Barbara J. Fiala invites local skaters to skate free at the Broome County Veterans Memorial Arena. Open skating will be available at the Arena on:

Wednesday, November 26th 1:00-3:00pm

Friday, November 27th 12:30-2:30pm

Saturday, November 29th 1:00-3:00pm

Please note skate rental is not available at the Arena. All participants must bring their own skates.

Buckle Up This Holiday Season (2008-11-25: Health Dept TS - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 10:26:19 -0500

Did you know that wearing a seat belt is the single most effective way to protect yourself in a crash? Seat belts save lives and this holiday season it is important that all vehicle occupants buckle up. With Thanksgiving and Christmas fast approaching, the roads will be full of holiday shoppers and travelers. This means busier roads, more traffic congestion and most likely more distracted drivers. During the holiday season people are stressed with long "To Do Lists." So it's probable that most drivers have their minds on things other than the road. So the best way to keep ourselves safe in crashes, even in those minor fender benders, is to wear our safety belt.

New York State has a primary seat belt enforcement policy. This means that a law enforcement officer can stop a vehicle and issue a traffic ticket for failure to wear a seat belt without observing another violation. Failure to wear a seat belt carries a fine of up to $50. According to New York's restraint laws, the driver and each passenger in the front seat must wear a seat belt, with one person per belt. Every passenger under the age of 16, regardless of where they are seated, must wear an appropriate safety restraint. Ideally, everyone in the vehicle should be buckled up.

Seat belts are intended to reduce injuries by stopping the wearer from hitting hard interior elements of the vehicle or other passengers (the so-called second impact) and by preventing the passenger from being thrown from the vehicle. Those who aren't can become projectiles in a crash and can cause injury or even death to the other occupants in the vehicle. Unrestrained occupants are more likely to be ejected from the vehicle in which case you increase your risk of being killed by 4 times.

Fortunately, New York has reached an all-time high for safety belt usage. This year's statewide usage rate increased from 83 percent in 2007 to a record 89 percent for 2008. New Yorkers are moving in the right direction for safer roadways. When more people buckle up and obey the law, less people are injured or killed. But we still aren't quite at our goal. 11 percent of New Yorkers still ride unrestrained. The Broome County Traffic Safety Board encourages all occupants, no matter how long or short the trip, to always buckle up.

Boscov's Holiday Parade and Courthouse Tree lighting (2008-11-20: Executive - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 12:26:40 -0500

-Free Holiday Movie: "Christmas with the Cranks"-

-Free Skating at the Veterans Memorial Arena-

Broome County is joining with the City of Binghamton, Boscov's, the Downtown Binghamton Business Association (DBBA) and the Binghamton City School District to provide an afternoon of activities to kick off the holiday season.

On Saturday, November 22nd Boscov's will host their annual Holiday Parade in Downtown Binghamton beginning at 2:30pm at the corner of Main and Arthur. Before the parade starts, a free open skate will be held at the Broome County Veterans Memorial Arena from 1-2:30pm. Following the parade, the annual Tree Lighting will be held at the Broome County Courthouse. After, all are invited to a free viewing of "Christmas with the Cranks" starring Tim Allen and Jamie Lee Curtis at Binghamton High School's Helen Foley Theater, sponsored by Broome County.

"We hope families will enjoy a day of fun holiday activities in downtown Binghamton," said Executive Fiala. "As we begin the holiday season, there is something for everyone to enjoy this Saturday in the downtown and the best part- all events are free."

"The Boscov's Holiday Parade is a wonderful, family-fun event, and we're pleased to be a co-sponsor again this year," said Mayor Ryan. "The parade both rings in the holiday season and showcases downtown's many holiday offerings. I encourage everyone to come downtown, and enjoy what we have to offer."

"We are happy to announce this year's details of the Annual Boscov's Holiday Parade in downtown Binghamton," said Brenda Bennett, Boscov's representative. "The parade signifies the beginning of the holiday season and we are proud to help organize this annual event."

In addition to the parade, Boscov's will also be offering pictures with Santa Clause inside their Court Street store following the parade. Thanks to the DBBA, there will also be free hot chocolate and cookies available before the tree lighting at 3:30pm on the courthouse lawn. The Binghamton High School Davidge Choir under the direction of Susan Bachman will perform during the tree lighting ceremony.

"This is a wonderful way to draw more attention to the downtown area and highlight all that it has to offer," said Ron Sall, President of the DBBA. "We have many new shops and restaurants for all to enjoy."

Boscov's Holiday Parade Itinerary

1-2:30pm Open Skate at the Broome County Veterans Memorial Arena

****NOTE*** Participants must bring their own skates

2:30pm Boscov's Annual Holiday Parade through Downtown Binghamton

3:30pm Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony

Free Cookies and Hot Chocolate sponsored by the DBBA

Binghamton High School Davidge Choir, Susan Bachman Director

4:15pm Free Holiday Movie "Christmas with the Cranks"

Binghamton High School Helen Foley Theater

November Is Diabetes Awareness Month (2008-11-20: Health Dept - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 12:18:48 -0500

Diabetes is the most rapidly growing chronic disease of our time. In New York State, there are an estimated 1,550,000 people with diabetes. Out of that number, 450,000 people are unaware that they have the disease.

Diabetes is a chronic disease in which the body does not produce insulin or cannot use the insulin that it produces as well as it should. Insulin is a hormone that helps sugar (glucose) from the blood get into cells where it is used to make energy. If glucose cannot get into the cells, it accumulates in the bloodstream. Over time, high blood glucose levels can cause serious health problems because blood vessels that supply blood to organs, such as the heart, kidneys, and eyes, are damaged by the excess glucose.

According to the New York State Department of Health, diabetes is the leading cause of new blindness, kidney disease, and amputation, and it also contributes to New York State's and the United States' number one killer, cardiovascular disease. People with diabetes are also more likely to die from influenza or pneumonia.

Diabetes is a serious and costly disease. According to the American Diabetes Association, the annual cost of diabetes nationally in 2007 was $174 billion. In the United States 1 in 10 health care dollars is attributed to diabetes and 1 in 5 health care dollars is spent on people with diabetes. The cost of diabetes continues to rise.

Type 2 diabetes, which is the most common type of diabetes, is preventable through proper nutrition and physical activity. Even those who have prediabetes, a condition that precedes type 2 diabetes in which the blood glucose level is higher than normal, and those who are at high risk for developing type 2 diabetes can prevent or delay the onset of the disease by losing a modest amount of weight and increasing physical activity. The same factors that increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes increase the risk of developing prediabetes, which include:

? Age – The risk of prediabetes/type 2 diabetes increases as you get older, especially after age 45. Often, that's because people tend to exercise less, lose muscle mass and gain weight as they age. But diabetes is also increasing dramatically among children, adolescents and younger adults.

? Race or ethnic background – Although it is unclear why, people of certain races—including blacks, Hispanics, American Indians and Asian-Americans—are most likely to develop prediabetes/type 2 diabetes.

? Family history of diabetes – The risk of prediabetes/type 2 diabetes increases if a parent of sibling has type 2 diabetes.

? Being overweight compared to your height (Body Mass Index) – The more fatty tissue you have—especially around your abdomen—the more resistant your cells become to insulin.

? Low physical activity level – The less active you are, the greater your risk of prediabetes/type 2 diabetes. Physical activity helps you control your weight, uses up glucose as energy and makes your cells more sensitive to insulin.

? High blood pressure (140/90 or higher)

? High LDL cholesterol, or "bad" cholesterol, low HDL cholesterol, or "good" cholesterol, or high triglycerides

? History of diabetes during pregnancy (gestational diabetes) – If you developed gestational diabetes when you were pregnant, your risk of later developing prediabetes/type 2 diabetes increases. If you gave birth to a baby who weighed more than 9 pounds, you're also at increased risk of diabetes.

? Polycystic ovary syndrome – For women, having polycystic ovary syndrome—a common condition characterized by irregular menstrual periods, excess hair growth and obesity— increases the risk of prediabetes/type 2 diabetes.

For more information about prediabetes or diabetes call the Southern Tier Diabetes Coalition at 607.778.3927 or visit the New York State Department of Health website at www.health.state.ny.us/diseases/conditions/diabetes/index.htm or the American Diabetes Association website at www.diabetes.org

Over One Hundred Sign DEC Petition (2008-11-19: Executive - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 13:07:17 -0500

-Local Natural Gas Coalitions Show Support-

Over one hundred community members have signed on to Broome County's natural gas petition addressed to the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) calling for proper environmental oversight and for the permitting process to be promptly established.

On Monday, Broome County Executive Barbara J. Fiala hosted a rally and petition signing at Broome Community College prior to the DEC public scoping meeting. Executive Fiala, Town of Conklin Supervisor Debra Preston, County Legislator Steve Herz and coalition members addressed a crowd of over one hundred people, calling on the DEC to disburse all resources possible to manage the natural gas play in the region. The majority of those in attendance were members of local natural gas coalitions, eager to sign the petition and share with others to garner additional support.

“We understand that this is a polarizing issue for many residents,” said Broome County Executive Barbara J. Fiala. “We recognize the potential economic benefits from natural gas while being acutely aware of the environmental concerns that surround this natural resource. We are asking for the DEC to handle the review and approval process in an expeditious manner.”

Broome County Legislator Steve Herz shared his unique feelings on being both a land owner and legislator, “Over the years, in order to live on this land, my family has survived many dire economic times. To make ends meet, we've supplemented our farm income in some pretty unusual manners,” he added.

“It is our intent to develop the opportunity that the natural gas play affords us in a responsible and safe manner,” said Herz

Those interested in signing on to the petition can access it by going to:http://www.gobroomecounty.com/gasresources/pdfs/gasdrillingpetition.pdf

For additional local information about the natural gas play log on to: http://www.gobroomecounty.com/gasresources/index.php

Broome County'S Steps To A Healthier New York Program Salutes Partners And Announces Their "Next Steps" (2008-11-12: Health Dept - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:00:35 -0500

After five successful years of battling chronic diseases related to obesity and diabetes, the Steps to a HealthierNY program will host an award ceremony to thank and recognize its partners. Through their dedication and hard work, the Broome County Steps program has received national recognition as a leader for healthier communities. At this same celebration, Steps program officials will make an announcement about a new grant they have received from the New York State Department of Health and Centers for Disease for chronic disease control.

WHEN:------ Thursday, November 13, 2008 3:30 pm- 5:00 pm

WHERE:----- Binghamton Regency Hotel Conference Center, Watson Room, Water St., Binghamton, NY

WHO:------- Open to the media

For more information please contact Mary McFadden, Supervising Public Health Educator, at the Broome County Health Department by phone at 607.778.3929 or email at mmcfadden@co.broome.ny.us .

Steps to a HealthierNY – Broome County is funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services as part of Steps to a HealthierUS, a national program focusing on the prevention of diabetes, obesity and asthma and the control of risk factors including poor nutrition, physical inactivity and tobacco use and exposure. For more information about the Steps to a HealthierNY- Broome County, please visit www.broomesteps.org or call 607.778.3929.

Steps to a HealthierUS is a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) initiative advancing the HealthierUS goal to help Americans live longer, better and healthier lives. This initiative will reduce the burden of chronic diseases including diabetes, obesity and asthma and the control of risk factors including poor nutrition, physical inactivity and tobacco use and exposure through funding of community-based interventions. www.healthierus.gov/steps.

County Youth Programs Receive Funding and Recognition (2008-11-07: Executive - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 15:01:11 -0500

-Detention Prevention Grant-

-2008 National Substance Abuse Prevention Program-

The Broome County Department of Social Services and the Broome County Department of Mental Health recently each received an award for local youth programs. Broome DSS secured a $236,228 grant for alternative juvenile detention from the NYS Office for Children & Family Services (OCFS). Additionally, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) recognized the Mental Health Department's Keeping Youth Drug-free and Safe (KYDS) Coalition as a 2008 substance abuse prevention program of the year. Both program areas have had a positive impact on improving the lives of young people.

“Such awards and recognition bolster our effectiveness and ability to better serve our community's needs,” said Art Johnson, Commissioner of Social Services.

The OCFS grant will fund the department's alternatives to juvenile detention such as respite services, enhanced after school programming, parental support and education for young people. The funding is targeted for those children who do not present a safety risk to the community. The use of alternatives such as respite and crisis counseling are less costly and avert expensive long-term costs such as out-of-home placement. Most importantly, these alternatives provide more suitable solutions to assisting young people in need.

The KYDS Coalition was one of seven community substance abuse prevention programs recognized throughout the country by the Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration. The KYDS Coalition provides evidence-based substance abuse prevention programming throughout the county. Working throughout the county and with eight local school districts, BOCES and two alternative schools, they have created diverse programming to educate and influence young people about drug use. For more information about the coalition visit: www.kydscoalition.org

Official announcement: http://www.samhsa.gov/scienceandservice/sap2008.aspx#link_group_1/

Broome County Health Department to Conduct Emergency Point of Distribution Exercise (2008-11-06: Health Dept - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 11:42:42 -0500

The Broome County Health Department is responsible for protecting and promoting the public health each and every day. One essential facet of public health is preparing for and responding to emergency situations that threaten the health of our community. Public Health emergency situations can range from a Communicable Disease Outbreak to a Bioterrorist Attack. In many cases, mass clinics – called Points of Distribution (PODs) – need to be set-up to rapidly provide medical countermeasures (e.g. Vaccination, Antibiotics, etc.) to combat the agent.

On Thursday, November 6, 2008 from 4:00pm-7:00pm the Broome County Health Department will be testing their Point of Distribution plan by distributing flu shots to our community's Emergency Services and Critical Infrastructure personnel and their household family members. The emergency exercise will take place in the West Gymnasium at Broome Community College.

Staff and volunteers from the Health Department will be utilizing an electronic system to register, screen, and track patients as they make their way through the clinic. Additional operational support will be provided by the Broome County Security Division, the Southern Tier Chapter of the American Red Cross, and Broome Community College personnel.

Note to Media: Media representatives are invited to attend the exercise on November 6th. While staff will certainly be made available to take questions/interviews all media representatives are respectfully asked to coordinate requests through the on-site Public Information Officer.

All News Releases

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 19:21:00 -0500

All Broome County Government News Releases