FREE CLINIC TO OFFER HOLISTIC TREATMENT THE NEW STOUGHTON CENTER WILL TRY TO PROVIDE CARE FOR THE BODY, MIND AND SOUL OF UNINSURED PATIENTS.(LOCAL) - The Wisconsin State Journal (Madison, WI)

Byline: HEATHER LaROI hlaroi@madison.com 608-252-6143

At a time when 15-minute doctor's appointments tend to be routine, founders of the Shalom Holistic Health Services clinic say its patients should expect to spend a couple of hours there with care providers.

Quick fixes, after all, are not what Stoughton's new free health-care clinic is all about.

Shalom Holistic Health Services, slated to open June 12 in a tiny yellow house on Ridge Street not far from downtown Stoughton, aims to offer care for the body, mind and soul of the growing number of area residents who don't have health insurance.

Providing such holistic - or whole person - care is not a new concept, but it is a fairly non-traditional approach for health care targeting the uninsured. For many without insurance, doctor's visits typically are more about immediate care issues rather than chronic conditions or general wellness.

'Often when we think of health, we get too stuck on disease,' said Dorothy Petersen, a registered nurse at Stoughton Hospital who was a driving force behind founding the clinic. 'We pretty much deal with the physical component and a lot of the rest is lost. We forget the components of health that we could be learning about and improving us overall ... the emotional components, social components, spiritual components.'

The Shalom clinic, accordingly, will be routinely staffed with a mental health provider or counselor as well as a clergy member in addition to a registered nurse and physician.

'To be able to offer the kind of health care that is pretty inexpensive to provide but also incorporates health and wellness for those who don't have anything is very appealing,' said Dr. Roger Luhn, a child and adolescent psychiatrist at Rogers Memorial Hospital in Oconomowoc and vice chairman of the new clinic's board.

Uninsured need

It was a report that Stoughton Hospital's urgent care unit saw nearly 300 'self-pay' patients in 2004 that prompted some members of the community to seek out something more. For a city of 12,000 people, that number just seemed 'very significant' and suggested a larger hidden need, said the Rev. Lamarr Gibson of United Methodist Church, who serves as chairman of the clinic's advisory board.

Stoughton's needs clearly reflect a larger, nationwide problem. The number of Americans without health insurance reached 47 million in 2006, up more than 2 million from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. In Wisconsin, about 9 percent of residents do not have insurance.

The Shalom clinic also joins an increasing number of free clinics in the area, largely funded by donations, that attempt to bridge gaps in health care for people who are uninsured or who find their coverage too costly. In the last two years, free clinics opened in Dodgeville, Richland Center and Boscobel. In Madison, federally funded clinics such as Access Community Health Centers on the East Side offer low-cost care to patients on a sliding fee scale.

Bobby Peterson, founder and executive director of Madison's ABC for Health, a nonprofit, public interest law firm dedicated to linking people in the area to health-care benefits and services, saluted the intent of the Shalom clinic while also acknowledging the 'big task' ahead.

'From a social service perspective, we do see the families that are getting services have multiple stresses in their lives and taking a look at the big picture is sometimes very important to help,' Peterson said.

'I think part of the effort to do this as a free community clinic can be, quite frankly, overwhelming because it's not a quick hit. It's then linking people to the appropriate resources in the community that can provide the longer, ongoing, sustainable effort. ... It's not a simple process.'

Ties to church

The Shalom clinic grew out of the START program - or Stoughton Area Resource Team program - based at the United Methodist Church since 1999. Over the years, START has expanded into an interfaith organization involving many Stoughton churches and other civic organizations.

Everyone who works at the nonprofit clinic will be a volunteer. Everything in the clinic - from the computers to the carpets to the crutches hanging in the closet - has been donated.

Skaalen Retirement Services, the adjacent nursing home which owns the house, offered the use of the building to the clinic. The local McGlynn Pharmacy and Stoughton Hospital will provide discounts to clinic patients for medications and services such as lab tests and X-rays.

Organizers have raised about $5,000 so far, primarily from local churches, community organizations and individual donations. Fundraising is expected to be an ongoing challenge.

'Shalom,' a Hebrew word that broadly means peace and well-being, ultimately speaks to what the clinic is hoping to provide, according to Gibson.

'From the pastoral point of view, it makes sense to look at all aspects of a person's health, the physical, mental, spiritual and social,' he said, noting that these areas of people's lives frequently can and do overlap. Mental health issues or economic difficulties may affect compliance with taking medications, for example.

'If you don't treat the whole person, you can give them all the drugs in the world but you're really not fixing the problem,' said Brenda Dottl, a registered nurse who's on the clinic's board. 'We want to go beyond the Band-Aid to treat the real cause and improve people's lives.'

SHALOM HOLISTIC HEALTH SERVICES

The Shalom Holistic Health Services clinic will offer free service to adults with no health insurance who live in the Stoughton School District. Children who are covered under BadgerCare will not be treated.

The clinic initially will provide service one day a week for four hours. It will not take walk-in appointments and is not intended to provide emergency care or perform invasive procedures. The clinic also will not carry any drugs on site.

TO FIND OUT MORE

Shalom Holistic Health Services, 1119 Ridge Street, Stoughton. Phone: 205-0505. E-mail: shalomhhs@gmail.com, Web site: www.shalomhs.com (both to be activated in early June).

Donations may be forwarded to Mary Smith, Treasurer, 1116 Ridge Street, P.O. Box 149, Stoughton, WI 53589.

CAPTION(S):

CRAIG SCHREINER State Journal

The new Shalom Holistic Health Services clinic in Stoughton, scheduled to

open June 12, will offer health care that spans body, mind and soul to

Stoughton adults who don't have health insurance. Registered nurse Dorothy

Schreiner and the Rev. Lamarr Gibson, of Stoughton's United Methodist Church,

HEALTH CALENDAR - The Washington Post

BLOOD DRIVE, 2:30-7:30 p.m. tomorrow, Liberty High School, 6300Independence Ave., Bealeton. 540-349-2516; 2-6 p.m. tomorrow,Foxcroft School, Foxcroft Road (Route 626 north of Middleburg). 540-687-4322 or blamond@foxcroft.org; 7:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday,Crossroads United Methodist Church, 43454 Crossroad Dr., Ashburn.703-777-7171; 3:30-8 p.m. May 8, Round Hill Elementary School, 17115Evening Star Dr. 703-777-7171; 3:30-8:30 p.m. May 8, Sterling SafetyCenter, Patton Hall, 47600 Middlefield Dr. 703-777-7171; 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. May 11, Loudoun County Fire and Rescue, Classroom 3, 16600Courage Ct., Leesburg. 703-777-7171.

ADULT, INFANT AND CHILD CPR AND FIRST AID, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. firstSaturdays, 333 Carriage House Lane, Warrenton. Registrationrequired. $55. 540-349-2516.

DISABILITY RESOURCE CENTER, providing technological help throughthe Department for the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing and with loans fromthe Technology Assistance Program, referrals to other agencies andpresentations to businesses, civic groups and schools, 2-5 p.m.third Thursdays, the Workplace, 205 Keith St., Warrenton. Free; callfor appointment. 800-648-6324 or TDD 540-373-5890.

HEARING-LOSS OUTREACH, free information and referral services.Walk-ins, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. fourth Thursdays, Loudoun County Departmentof Social Services, 102 Heritage Way, Leesburg. For one-on-oneappointments, call 703-444-0101 or TDD 703-430-2906. For hearingloss, tinnitus or Meniere's disease support, 2 p.m. first Fridays,Loudoun County Senior Center, 21060 Whitfield Pl., Sterling. For allages, including parents of children with hearing loss. 703-444-0101.

LOUDOUN ASSOCIATION FOR CHILDREN WITH HEARING LOSS, support forparents, families and professionals who work with hearing-impairedchildren in Loudoun County. 7 p.m. second Fridays, September-May,Leesburg Executive Airport, third floor, 1001 Sycolin Rd. SE. Forinformation on membership, educational and social events, links torelated Web sites, contact information and recommended reading, goto www.loudounhearing.org or mphotinaksi@netzero.com.

LOUDOUN CHAPTER OF THE NATIONAL ALLIANCE FOR THE MENTALLY ILL,7:30 p.m. first Tuesdays, Friendship House, 16480 Meadowview Ct.,Leesburg. If you are interested in attending or know someone who maybenefit, call so that facilitators can arrange an appointment toexplain the nature of the course and its benefits. Free. 703-444-5326.

LOUDOUN CSB COMMUNITY RESOURCE CENTER, provides information aboutmental health, mental retardation and substance abuse for countyresidents. Lending library and help with computer research available9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Fridays, 906 Trailview Blvd., Suite C,Leesburg. Drop-ins welcome if coordinator is available. Free. Forappointment, 703-737-8977. For information, www.loudoun.gov/mhmr/crc.htm.

RECOVERY INC., provides support for people suffering fromanxiety, fear, depression, panic and other emotional problems, 8p.m. Fridays, Friendship House, 16480 Meadowview Ct., Leesburg.Free. 703-777-1708.

ADVANCE DIRECTIVES SEMINAR, 10 a.m.-noon May 19, FauquierHospital Tower, main lobby information desk, 500 Hospital Dr.,Warrenton. Register. Free. 540-349-0588.

BLOOD PRESSURE SCREENING, noon-2 p.m. May 9, Fauquier Hospitallobby, 500 Hospital Dr., Warrenton. Free. 540-341-0845.

EMERGENCY FOOD SUPPLIES, Loudoun residents can receive a freethree-day supply of nutritious groceries. Supplies are distributedMondays-Saturdays by Loudoun Interfaith Relief. 703-777-5911 orwww.interfaithrelief.org.

FAUQUIER FREE MEDICAL CLINIC, patients must call between 1:30 and3:30 p.m. Thursdays to register for that evening. No advanceappointments for another evening. Fauquier and Rappahannockresidents only. Bring proof of address residency//I changedresidency to address because, for many immigrants, 'residency' is acomplex and loaded term. Some might associate it with a requirementfor a 'green card.' And if they don't have that sort of legalstatus, they may not bother to seek care at this facility-Gilbert//for the first visit. To be eligible for treatment, patients cannothave Medicaid, Medicare or private health insurance. If you havequestions, call between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Tuesdays or Thursdays. 540-347-0394.

MEN'S ANGER MANAGEMENT, sponsored by Services to Abused Families,6-7:30 p.m. Mondays, confidential location. Free. 540-825-8876.

NEW VOICE CLUB, support and education program for laryngectomypatients and their families, including free speech therapy. Monthlymeetings. Free. 703-938-5550.

NORTHERN VIRGINIA LONG-TERM-CARE OMBUDSMAN, investigates andworks to resolve complaints made by or for residents of long-termcare facilities. 703-324-5861.

REMEMBERING MY MOM, 7-9 p.m. May 11, Spiritual Care SupportMinistry Center, 76 W. Shirley Ave., Warrenton. Share memories ofmothers. Register. Free. 540-349-5814.

ROAD TO RECOVERY, for cancer patients in need of transportationto treatments. Free. 703-938-5550.

SEPARATION AND DIVORCE WORKSHOP FOR WOMEN, eight-week program, 7-9 p.m. Wednesdays, $15 a session. 199-B Liberty St. SW, Leesburg.Call for date of next session. 703-391-8599.

SEXAHOLICS ANONYMOUS, 12-step program of recovery for those whowant to stop self-destructive sexual behavior. Free. 703-866-6929.

VEHICLES FOR CHANGE, a nonprofit organization that collects usedvehicles and prepares them for distribution to eligible recipients.703-771-5871.

WARRENTON LIONS CLUB EYEGLASS RECYCLING PROGRAM, donate unneededeyeglasses to help others. Drop-off locations in Warrenton areWarrenton Professional Center, 493 Blackwell Rd.; Wal-Mart VisionCenter, 8728 James Madison Hwy.; Lindsey's Vision Center, 71 W.Shirley Ave. 540-347-3164 or 540-341-1006.

BIRTH CLASS, 'Have an Unmedicated Birth,' 6:30-9 p.m. May 9,Inova Loudoun Hospital, Family Education Room, 44045 RiversidePkwy., Leesburg. Learn tools to see you through natural birth.Register. $55, per couple. 703-858-6360 or www.thebirthinginn.org.

BIRTH MATTERS VIRGINIA, 'Birth Circle' discussions, 7-9 p.m.first Thursdays alternating between Leesburg and Purcellville.Information and support offered for pregnancy, birth and postpartumissues. Call for location. Free. 540-338-4398 or birthmattersva.org.

BIRTHRIGHT OF LOUDOUN COUNTY INC., free pregnancy tests, clothes,baby clothing, transportation and support throughout pregnancy, 18Loudoun St. SE, Leesburg. 703-777-7272.

BOND BETWEEN US INC., nonprofit organization offering support tobirth parents and their significant others when a child has beenplaced for adoption, 7:30 p.m. fourth Tuesdays. Call for location.Free. 703-771-7844.

BREAST-FEEDING CLASSES, noon-1 p.m. Wednesdays, Inova LoudounHospital Birthing Inn, 44045 Riverside Pkwy., Leesburg. Classes arefacilitated by a lactation consultant. Registration is not required.Free. 703-858-6000 or www.thebirthinginn.org.

FAMILIES IN TRANSITION SUPPORT, 'For the Children's Sake,' forLoudoun and Fauquier parents separating or divorcing, help indeveloping co-parenting skills. Four-hour session weekly. Free. 703-391-8599 or www.fitsfoundation.org.

LIFE LINE, pregnancy care center offering free testing, practicalcare and counseling in a confidential setting. 703-729-1123 orwww.pregnancylifeline.org.

LOUDOUN COUNTY COMMUNITY FATHERHOOD PROGRAM, fathers and fatherfigures learn about and discuss the joys and challenges offatherhood. Meet every other Saturday for two hours for four months.Sponsored by Northern Virginia Family Service. Free. Call forinformation. 703-404-1901 or dadsproject@adelphia.net.

LOUDOUN FAMILIES FOR CHILDREN, providing short-term emergencycare and mentoring to children who have been abused or neglected orare experiencing family crises. Call 703-771-9505 for information onorientation and training sessions or e-mail kburk@burkinc.com.

MOMS RUNNING/WALKING GROUPS, for mothers and infants. Free. 703-586-5037 or www.seemommyrun.com.

MOM-VISION, support group for mothers and other women with home-based businesses. Free. For location and information, call 703-669-6348.

MOTHERNET/HEALTHY FAMILIES LOUDOUN, program links first-timeparents with medical, social and educational resources needed togive children a socially and physically healthy start in life.Family-support workers meet with participants in homes. English-Spanish translation provided. 703-444-4477, Ext. 217, orwww.inmed.org.

MOTHERS FIRST, discussions, lectures, field trips, play groupsand moms' night out. 10:30 a.m.-noon first and third Tuesdays,Eastern Loudoun Regional Library, 21030 Whitfield Pl., Sterling; 10a.m. first and third Tuesdays, Rust Library, 380 Old Waterford Rd.,Leesburg. ; 10:15 a.m. second and fourth Tuesdays, Ashburn Library,43316 Hay Rd. $28 for membership. 703-827-5922 orwww.mothersfirst.org.

NEW MOTHERS AND BABIES SUPPORT, MotherNet/Healthy FamiliesLoudoun provides free in-home mentoring and health education tofirst-time mothers, especially those facing teenage or singleparenthood, poverty, substance abuse, family violence andunemployment. 703-444-4477.

PREGNANCY AND CHILDBIRTHING RESOURCE, Childbirth SolutionsResource Center, 8393 W. Main St., Marshall. Education and supportfor women interested in learning about birthing options. 571-344-0438.

YOUNG-PARENT SERVICES, support program for teenage parentsoffering individual case management and weekly support group,Loudoun County Department of Family Social Services, 52 Sycolin Rd.,Leesburg. Free. Call for times. 703-771-5375.

10TH ANNUAL SENIOR EXPO, showcases resources for seniors inLoudoun County, 3-6:30 p.m. May 10, Community Church, 19790 AshburnRd., Ashburn. Display booths featuring financial, estate and legalplanning, traveling, home health and medical resources, facilitiesand residential communities, independent living support andgovernment services. Wellness screenings for blood pressure, bonedensity, cholesterol and glucose. Includes entertainment,refreshments and door prizes. Sponsored by the Loudoun SeniorInterest Network. Free. 703-777-2777, 703-531-6097 orwww.lsininfo.com.

EXERCISE TAPE, National Council on Aging video for people 55 andolder, 9-10:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, Leesburg Senior Center,215 Depot Ct. Free. 703-737-8039.

LIFELINE, 24-hour personal response service for seniors. CallInova Loudoun Hospital for information. 703-858-8094.

SPEAKERS PROGRAM, 11 a.m. first Tuesdays, Leesburg Senior Center,215 Depot Ct., Leesburg. Free. 703-737-8039.

ADULT FOSTER-CARE PROGRAM, enables people with mentaldisabilities to become more independent through interaction and theroutines of family life. Loudoun County Mental Retardation HealthServices is seeking new families for the program. Foster familiesreceive a monthly stipend and are provided with training and in-home support. 703-737-8977.

AL-ANON SERVICE CENTER OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, volunteer on duty 24hours with information for spouses, relatives and friends of problemdrinkers. 703-764-0476. Meetings 12:15 p.m. Wednesdays, LeesburgPresbyterian Church, 207 W. Market St., and 8 p.m. Thursdays, InovaLoudoun Hospital, 224 Cornwall St., Leesburg, 703-764-0476; 8 p.m.Mondays, Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 125 W. Washington St.,Middleburg, 540-554-2747; 8:30 p.m. Fridays, Grace Episcopal Church,6507 Main St., The Plains, 800-344-2666; noon Tuesdays, WarrentonChurch of Christ, Route 29 North, and 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays, WarrentonPresbyterian Church, 91 Main St., 800-344-2666.

ALATEEN, 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, Warrenton Baptist Church, 123 W.Main St.800-344-2666.

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, many meeting times and locations inLoudoun. Free. 800-208-8649 or www.nvintergroup.org.

ALZHEIMER'S SUPPORT, 9-10:30 a.m. first Thursdays, Sunrise ofLeesburg, 246 W. Market St. Free. 703-777-1971. For schedules andlocations of groups, call Alzheimer's Association, 866-259-0042.

CHILDREN'S PROGRAM, ages 5-12 who have a relative with cancer.Group activities, artwork and discussion. Learn helpful ways toexpress and deal with feelings. 4:30-5:30 p.m. Tuesdays, InovaLoudoun Hospital, Radiation Oncology Center, 44035 Riverside Pkwy.,Suite 100, Leesburg. Register. Free. 703-208-5623.

'CREATING AND CONNECTING,' two-hour art therapy and relaxationworkshop for patients, 12:30-2:30 p.m., meets every other month,Inova Loudoun Hospital Radiation Oncology Center, 44035 RiversidePkwy., Suite 100, Leesburg. Free. 703-858-8850.

DAD'S SUPPORT, 'Usopen_loudoundads,' 8 p.m. Tuesdays, InovaLoudoun Hospital, 44045 Riverside Pkwy., Leesburg. Provides a placefor new and expectant fathers to ask questions, share ideas and feelcomfortable with their role. The name of the group was chosenbecause the men's U.S. Open golf tournament is played on Father'sDay; the aim of the group is to have a group of dads being open.Free. 703-858-6360 or www.thebirthinginn.org.

'LOOK GOOD, FEEL BETTER,' for women undergoing or emerging fromcancer treatment, 6:45-9 p.m., meets every other month, InovaLoudoun Hospital Radiation Oncology Center, 44035 Riverside Pkwy.,Suite 100, Leesburg. Free. 703-858-8850.

'REACH TO RECOVERY,' home-visitation program for mastectomy andlumpectomy patients, sponsored by the American Cancer Society;temporary prostheses, exercise instruction, and encouragement. Free.703-938-5550.

CEREBRAL PALSY SUPPORT, parents with children newborn to 10 yearswho have cerebral palsy. Leesburg and Purcellville areas. Call forinformation. Free. 540-668-6832.

CHRONIC ILLNESS SUPPORT, 10:30-11 a.m. Tuesdays, FauquierHospital Bistro on the Hill restaurant (wheelchair accessible), 500Hospital Dr., Warrenton. Sponsored by the Spiritual Care SupportMinistries. 540-349-5814 or www.scsm.tv.

COMPASSIONATE FRIENDS, for parents who have experienced the deathof a child, 7:30 p.m. first Wednesdays, St. James' Episcopal Church,14 Cornwall St. NW, Leesburg. Free. 540-882-9707.

CRISISLINK, suicide and crisis prevention, intervention andresponse organization. Nonprofit organization serves NorthernVirginia. Organization also provides community education andtraining in mental health issues, has a certified volunteer crisisresponse team and offers CareRing, a free, daily telephone outreachprogram for elderly and disabled people. Help is needed for thesuicide and crisis hot line. Call for training schedule. 703-527-6016, www.crisislink.org or volunteer@crisislink.org.

DUAL DIAGNOSIS ANONYMOUS, support group for people with substanceabuse and mental health challenges, 7 p.m. Tuesdays, Inova LoudounHospital, Cornwall campus, 224 Cornwall St., Leesburg. Free. 301-827-7220.

FOREVER CHANGED, support for those who have lost children throughmiscarriage, stillbirth or infant death or because of othercircumstances, 7-8:30 p.m. first and third Tuesdays, Hospice Supportof Fauquier County, 42 N. Fifth St., Warrenton. Free. 540-347-5922.

GRIEF SUPPORT, for individuals and family members who needsupport in the aftermath of the Virginia Tech shootings. SpiritualCare Support Ministry Center, 76 W. Shirley Ave., Warrenton. Allservices are non-denominational. Free. 540-349-5814 or www.scsm.tv.

GRIEF SUPPORT, 'The Bereaved Parent,' 10:30 a.m.-noon first andthird Saturdays, Spiritual Care Support Ministry Center, 76 W.Shirley Ave., Warrenton. Free. 540-349-5814.

GRIEF SUPPORT, sponsored by Hospice Support of Fauquier County,individual counseling available, open to anyone who has experiencedthe death of a loved one, 3:30-5 p.m. every other Thursday, HospiceSupport Office, 42 N. Fifth St., Warrenton. Free. Register. 540-347-5922.

GRIEFSHARE SUPPORT, 7:30-9 p.m. Tuesdays, Spiritual Care SupportMinistry Center, 76 W. Shirley Ave., Warrenton. Non-denominational.Free. 540-349-5814 or www.scsm.tv.

HOSPICE SUPPORT, a medical equipment loan closet that serves allresidents of Fauquier County at no cost, needs hospital beds,wheelchairs, many kinds of medical equipment and supplies. Donationswill be accepted 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Mondays-Fridays, hospice office,42 N. Fifth St., Warrenton. Wheelchairs are especially needed. 540-347-5922.

HOSPICE SUPPORT, 3:30-5 p.m. first and third Thursdays, 42 N.Fifth St., Warrenton. Open to anyone who has experienced the deathof a loved one. Register. Free. 540-347-5922 orhospicesupport@verizon.net with inquiries.

HOSPICE SUPPORT OF FAUQUIER COUNTY, four weekly training sessionsfor Fauquier residents. Participants attend all sessions and committo at least a year. Training covers hospice concept, patient comfortcare and body mechanics, listening skills, family dynamics,spiritual values, bereavement, documentation, confidentiality andfuneral home tour. For time, dates, location and to sign up, callJoy LeBaron or Gil Brooker at 540-347-5922.

LOUDOUN-FAIRFAX COLORECTAL CANCER SUPPORT, 7 p.m. every otherWednesday in Herndon. Free. 703-327-1472.

OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS, 12-step program for those with eatingdisorders, 8-9 p.m. Fridays, Ashburn Presbyterian Church, 20962Ashburn Rd., 703-823-6682; 7:30-8:30 p.m. Wednesdays, LeesburgPresbyterian Church, 207 W. Market St., 540-338-7483 days, 540-882-3988 evenings; 7 p.m. Thursdays, Seventh-day Adventist Church, 7485Lee Hwy., Warrenton, 540-439-0790; 8:45 a.m. Saturdays, second-floor sunroom, Inova Loudoun Hospital, Cornwall campus, 224 CornwallSt. Leesburg. Use the south entrance and follow the signs toelevators. Free. 540-751-0685; 7:30-8:30 p.m. Mondays, St. Peter'sEpiscopal Church, 37018 Glendale St., Purcellville. Free. 540-338-7483; 7-8 p.m. Tuesdays, Cascades Library, 21030 Whitfield Pl.,Potomac Falls. Free. 703-437-1521.

PARKINSON'S SUPPORT, 'Yoga-Lite for Parkinson's,' 1:30-3:30 p.m.Mondays in Leesburg. Increase flexibility, balance and strength andlearn stress management and correct breathing. Registrationrequired. Doesn't want drop-ins or location published. She canevaluate their situation over the phone and know their limitationsbefore class. $20 session. 540-668-6755 or mnhollyfield@yahoo.com.

PARKINSON'S SUPPORT, 1:30 p.m. first Tuesdays, Wingler HouseWest, 20903 Runnymeade Terr., Ashburn. Free. 703-723-0919.

PET LOSS SUPPORT, Spiritual Care Support Ministry Center, 76 W.Shirley Ave., Warrenton. Free. 540-349-5814.

PFLAG SUPPORT, first Tuesdays, meet at the Sterling Starbucks,21800 Towncenter Plaza, to carpool to meeting. For parents andfriends of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. Works tohelp keep families together. Free. 703-431-0882 orwww.equalityloudoun.org.

SEPARATION AND DIVORCE SUPPORT, 7:30-9 p.m. first Wednesdays,Leesburg United Methodist Church, 107 W. Market St.; 7:30-9 p.m.first Mondays, Sterling United Methodist Church, Room 105, 304 E.Church Rd. Free. 703-777-8766.

SEXUAL ASSAULT AND INCEST SURVIVORS GROUP COUNSELING, allservices provided by Loudoun Citizens for Social Justice and LoudounAbused Women's Shelter are free and confidential. 703-771-9020.

SEXUAL ASSAULT SURVIVORS EMPOWERMENT SUPPORT, sponsored by SexualAssault Victims Volunteer Initiative, Mondays. Child care availablewith 48-hour notice. Call for time and location. Free. 540-349-7720.

SINGLEPOINTE, singles 30 and older, 7:30-9:30 p.m. Fridays,Christian Fellowship Church, 21673 Beaumeade Cir., Ashburn. Livemusic, discussions, practical principles for living the single life.Refreshments available; child care available for those 2 and older.Free. 703-724-4916 or www.singlepointe.org.

SPIRITUAL CARE SUPPORT MINISTRIES, provides support, educationand a biblical perspective through individual sessions, supportgroups, retreats, Bible studies and social events. Training providedfor those who would like to know how to minister to people who aresick or grieving the loss of loved ones. Free. 540-349-5814.

SPOUSE-LOSS SUPPORT, 7:30-9 p.m. Tuesdays, Spiritual Care SupportMinistry Center, 76 W. Shirley Ave., Warrenton. Free. 540-349-5814.

WOMEN'S CANCER SUPPORT, 6:30-8 p.m. first Wednesdays, InovaLoudoun Hospital Radiation Oncology Center, 44035 Riverside Pkwy.,Leesburg. Free. 703-858-8850.

WOMEN'S SUPPORT, sponsored by Services to Abused Families, 6:30-8 p.m. Tuesdays. Confidential location. Free. 540-825-8876.

CHOICES WEIGHT-LOSS SUPPORT, 7 p.m. Mondays, Loudoun ValleyCommunity Center, Purcellville. $5 to join; $2 monthly. Firstmeeting free. 540-338-4854.

NORTHERN DISTRICT VIRGINIA DIETETIC ASSOCIATION, speakers bureauof registered dietitians and diet technicians who address topicssuch as weight management, vegetarian diets, quick and healthfulmeals, planning and preparation, sports nutrition, understandingfood labels, nutrition for seniors and diet needs for heart diseasepatients and diabetics. Available to schools and civic and businessgroups in Loudoun, Fairfax and Prince William counties.www.northernvirginiadietitians.org.

TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY, weight-loss support group, 5-6 p.m.weigh-in, 6-7 p.m. meeting, Tuesdays, Midland Church of theBrethren. $25 a year. 540-439-3739. TOPS support group meets at 6:15p.m. Tuesdays, SunTrust Bank, Routes 29 and 17, Warrenton. $20 ayear. 540-439-3671.

WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY SUPPORT, group forming in Loudoun. 703-967-4379 or supportgroup4wls@aol.com.

-- Compiled by SANDY MAUCK

To Submit an Item

E-mail: lextra@washpost.com

Fax: 703-777-8437

Mail: Loudoun Extra, The Washington Post, 305 Harrison St. SE,Suite 100-A, Leesburg, Va. 22075

US SECRETARY OF LABOR TO CONVENE NATIONAL ACTION SUMMIT ON LATINO WORKER SAFETY AND HEALTH. - States News Service

WASHINGTON -- The following information was released by the U.S. Department of Labor:

Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis will convene a National Action Summit for Latino Worker Health and Safety on April 14 and 15 in Houston, Texas.

The summit, co-sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, will bring together more than 500 people, including workers and representatives from unions, employer associations, community organizations, day labor centers, the interfaith community, the academic community, Latino organizations, health professionals, medical clinics, consulates, federal and state agencies, and others with the goal of reducing injuries and illness among Latino workers by enhancing their knowledge of their rights and their ability to exercise those rights.

WHO:

U.S. Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis will deliver the keynote address.

WHAT:

The summit will focus on the construction and other high-risk industries with large numbers of Latino workers. It will showcase innovative partnerships, demonstrate successful education and training strategies, and develop effective enforcement and communication strategies.

WHERE:

Hilton Americas Hotel

1600 Lamar St.

Houston, Texas

WHEN:

Wednesday, April 14 (beginning at 1 p.m. CDT)

Thursday, April 15 (beginning at 8:45 a.m. CDT)

For information on the conference workshops, visit https://www.osha.gov/latinosummit/index.html.

Reporters interested in covering the summit are requested to contact

Diana Petterson at 202-693-1898 or petterson.diana@dol.gov.

Health Calendar - The Washington Post

BLOOD DRIVE, 7:15 a.m.-noon today, St. Francis de Sales CatholicChurch, 37730 St. Francis Ct., Purcellville. 540-338-6313; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday, Fauquier Hospital, Sycamore Room, 500 Hospital Dr.,Warrenton, 540-349-0588; 1:30-6 p.m. April 26, St. James EpiscopalChurch, 14 Cornwall St. NW, Leesburg. 703-777-7171; 2-6 p.m. April30, Foxcroft School, Foxcroft Road (Route 626 north of Middleburg).540-687-4322 or blamond@foxcroft.org; 7:30 a.m.-1 p.m. May 5,Crossroads United Methodist Church, 43454 Crossroad Dr., Ashburn.703-777-7171.

CPR AND FIRST-AID RECERTIFICATION, by appointment, Red Crossoffice, 53 S. Third St., Warrenton. Cost varies depending onrecertification needed. 540-349-2516.

DISABILITY RESOURCE CENTER, providing technological help throughthe Department for the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing and with loans fromthe Technology Assistance Program, referrals to other agencies andpresentations to businesses, civic groups and schools, 2-5 p.m.third Thursdays, the Workplace, 205 Keith St., Warrenton. Free; callfor appointment. 800-648-6324 or TDD 540-373-5890.

LOUDOUN CSB COMMUNITY RESOURCE CENTER, provides information aboutmental health, mental retardation and substance abuse for countyresidents. Lending library and help with computer research available9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Fridays, 906 Trailview Blvd., Suite C,Leesburg. Drop-ins welcome if coordinator is available. Free. Forappointment, 703-737-8977. For information, www.loudoun.gov/mhmr/crc.htm.

RECOVERY INC., provides support for people suffering fromanxiety, fear, depression, panic and other emotional problems, 8p.m. Fridays, Friendship House, 16480 Meadowview Ct., Leesburg.Free. 703-777-1708.

ADVANCE DIRECTIVES DAY: SPEAK FOR YOURSELF, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.Tuesday, Fauquier Hospital, Sycamore Room A, 500 Hospital Dr.,Warrenton. Drop-in throughout the day and learn about advancedirectives, living wills, health-care powers of attorney, appointingagents, and do-not-resuscitate orders. Educational materials, formsand guidance will be provided. Free. 540-341-0884.

ADVANCED MEDICAL DIRECTIVES SEMINAR, 3-7 p.m. Tuesday, WarrentonLibrary, 11 Winchester St. Sponsored by Hospice of the Rapidan andHospice Support of Fauquier County. Free. 540-347-8750, Ext. 5322.

BABYSITTER TRAINING, 'Safe Sitter,' ages 11-13, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.Saturday, Inova Loudoun Hospital Patient Education Room, 44045Riverside Pkwy., Leesburg. Register. $55. 703-858-6360 orwww.thebirthinginn.org.

COMMUNITY PRAYER HOUR, noon-1 p.m. Thursdays, Spiritual CareSupport Ministry Center, 76 W. Shirley Ave., Warrenton.Nondenominational. Free. Chaplain Liz Danielsen at 540-349-5814.

EMERGENCY FOOD SUPPLIES, Loudoun residents can receive a freethree-day supply of nutritious groceries. Supplies are distributedMondays-Saturdays by Loudoun Interfaith Relief. 703-777-5911 orwww.interfaithrelief.org.

FAUQUIER FREE MEDICAL CLINIC, patients must call between 1:30 and3:30 p.m. Thursdays to register for that evening. No advanceappointments for another evening. Fauquier and Rappahannockresidents only. Bring proof of address for the first visit. To beeligible for treatment, patients cannot have Medicaid, Medicare orprivate health insurance. If you have questions, call between 9 a.m.and 4 p.m. Tuesdays or Thursdays. 540-347-0394.

MEN'S ANGER MANAGEMENT, sponsored by Services to Abused Families,6-7:30 p.m. Mondays, confidential location. Free. 540-825-8876.

NEW VOICE CLUB, support and education program for laryngectomypatients and their families, including free speech therapy. Monthlymeetings. Free. 703-938-5550.

NORTHERN VIRGINIA LONG-TERM-CARE OMBUDSMAN, investigates andworks to resolve complaints made by or for residents of long-termcare facilities. 703-324-5861.

ROAD TO RECOVERY, for cancer patients in need of transportationto treatments. Free. 703-938-5550.

SEPARATION AND DIVORCE WORKSHOP FOR WOMEN, eight-week program, 7-9 p.m. Wednesdays, $15 a session. 199-B Liberty St. SW, Leesburg.Call for date of next session. 703-391-8599.

SEXAHOLICS ANONYMOUS, 12-step program of recovery for those whowant to stop self-destructive sexual behavior. Free. 703-866-6929.

VEHICLES FOR CHANGE, a nonprofit organization that collects usedvehicles and prepares them for distribution to eligible recipients.703-771-5871.

WARRENTON LIONS CLUB EYEGLASS RECYCLING PROGRAM, donate unneededeyeglasses to help others. Drop-off locations in Warrenton areWarrenton Professional Center, 493 Blackwell Rd.; Wal-Mart VisionCenter, 8728 James Madison Hwy.; Lindsey's Vision Center, 71 W.Shirley Ave. 540-347-3164 or 540-341-1006.

ADOPTION SEMINAR, 7-8:30 p.m. tomorrow, Broadlands CommunityCenter, 43004 Waxpool Rd., Ashburn. Up-to-date information onadoptions from Russia, Ukraine, China, Guatemala and othercountries. Free. 703-723-4385 or klawadoption@aol.com.

BIRTHRIGHT OF LOUDOUN COUNTY INC., free pregnancy tests, clothes,baby clothing, transportation and support throughout pregnancy, 18Loudoun St. SE, Leesburg. 703-777-7272.

BREAST-FEEDING CLASSES, noon-1 p.m. Wednesdays, Inova LoudounHospital Birthing Inn, 44045 Riverside Pkwy., Leesburg. Classes arefacilitated by a lactation consultant. Registration is not required.Free. 703-858-6000 or www.thebirthinginn.org.

EARLY PREGNANCY CLASS, 6:30-9:30 p.m. April 23, Inova LoudounHospital, 44045 Riverside Pkwy., Leesburg. Class will highlight thesecond and third trimester of pregnancy. Special attention oneducation about pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, pre-term laborand warning signs. $55, per couple. Register. 703-858-6360 orwww.thebirthinginn.org.

FAMILIES IN TRANSITION SUPPORT, 'For the Children's Sake,' forLoudoun and Fauquier parents separating or divorcing, help indeveloping co-parenting skills. Four-hour session weekly. Free. 703-391-8599 or www.fitsfoundation.org.

LIFE LINE, pregnancy care center offering free testing, practicalcare and counseling in a confidential setting. 703-729-1123 orwww.pregnancylifeline.org.

LOUDOUN COUNTY COMMUNITY FATHERHOOD PROGRAM, fathers and fatherfigures learn about and discuss the joys and challenges offatherhood. Meet every other Saturday for two hours for four months.Sponsored by Northern Virginia Family Service. Free. Call forinformation. 703-404-1901 or dadsproject@adelphia.net.

LOUDOUN FAMILIES FOR CHILDREN, providing short-term emergencycare and mentoring to children who have been abused or neglected orare experiencing family crises. Call 703-771-9505 for information onorientation and training sessions or e-mail kburk@burkinc.com.

MOTHERNET/HEALTHY FAMILIES LOUDOUN, program links first-timeparents with medical, social and educational resources needed togive children a socially and physically healthy start in life.Family-support workers meet with participants in homes. English-Spanish translation provided. 703-444-4477, Ext. 217, orwww.inmed.org.

NEW MOTHERS AND BABIES SUPPORT, MotherNet/Healthy FamiliesLoudoun provides free in-home mentoring and health education tofirst-time mothers, especially those facing teenage or singleparenthood, poverty, substance abuse, family violence andunemployment. 703-444-4477.

PREGNANCY AND CHILDBIRTHING RESOURCE, Childbirth SolutionsResource Center, 8393 W. Main St., Marshall. Education and supportfor women interested in learning about birthing options. 571-344-0438.

YOUNG-PARENT SERVICES, support program for teenage parentsoffering individual case management and weekly support group,Loudoun County Department of Family Social Services, 52 Sycolin Rd.,Leesburg. Free. Call for times. 703-771-5375.

BLOOD PRESSURE SCREENING, 9:30 a.m. Thursday, Leesburg SeniorCenter, 215 Depot Ct. Free. 703-737-8039.

EXERCISE TAPE, National Council on Aging video for people 55 andolder, 9-10:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, Leesburg Senior Center,215 Depot Ct. Free. 703-737-8039.

LIFELINE, 24-hour personal response service for seniors. CallInova Loudoun Hospital for information. 703-858-8094.

ADULT FOSTER-CARE PROGRAM, enables people with mentaldisabilities to become more independent through interaction and theroutines of family life. Loudoun County Mental Retardation HealthServices is seeking new families for the program. Foster familiesreceive a monthly stipend and are provided with training and in-home support. 703-737-8977.

AL-ANON SERVICE CENTER OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, volunteer on duty 24hours with information for spouses, relatives and friends of problemdrinkers. 703-764-0476. Meetings 12:15 p.m. Wednesdays, LeesburgPresbyterian Church, 207 W. Market St., and 8 p.m. Thursdays, InovaLoudoun Hospital, 224 Cornwall St., Leesburg, 703-764-0476; 8 p.m.Mondays, Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 125 W. Washington St.,Middleburg, 540-554-2747; 8:30 p.m. Fridays, Grace Episcopal Church,6507 Main St., The Plains, 800-344-2666; noon Tuesdays, WarrentonChurch of Christ, Route 29 North, and 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays, WarrentonPresbyterian Church, 91 Main St., 800-344-2666.

ALATEEN, 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, Warrenton Baptist Church, 123 W.Main St.800-344-2666.

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, many meeting times and locations inLoudoun. 800-208-8649 or www.nvintergroup.org.

BREAST CANCER SUPPORT, 7-8 p.m. third Tuesdays, Fauquier HospitalTower, Chestnut Room, 500 Hospital Dr., Warrenton. 540-349-0588.

CHILDREN'S PROGRAM, ages 5-12 who have a relative with cancer.Group activities, artwork and discussion. Learn helpful ways toexpress and deal with feelings. 4:30-5:30 p.m. Tuesdays, InovaLoudoun Hospital, Radiation Oncology Center, 44035 Riverside Pkwy.,Suite 100, Leesburg. Register. Free. 703-208-5623.

CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME AND FIBROMYALGIA SUPPORT, 7-9 p.m. April23, Cascades Library, 21030 Whitfield Pl., Potomac Falls. AllisonKitchen will discuss acupuncture and its benefits. Free. RSVP. 703-327-6478.

'CREATING AND CONNECTING,' two-hour art therapy and relaxationworkshop for patients, 12:30-2:30 p.m., meets every other month,Inova Loudoun Hospital Radiation Oncology Center, 44035 RiversidePkwy., Suite 100, Leesburg. Free. 703-858-8850.

DAD'S SUPPORT, 'Usopen_loudoundads,' 8 p.m. Tuesdays, InovaLoudoun Hospital, 44045 Riverside Pkwy., Leesburg. Provides a placefor new and expectant fathers to ask questions, share ideas and feelcomfortable with their role. The name of the group was chosenbecause the men's U.S. Open golf tournament is played on Father'sDay; the aim of the group is to have a group of dads being open.Free. 703-858-6360 or www.thebirthinginn.org.

'LOOK GOOD, FEEL BETTER,' for women undergoing or emerging fromcancer treatment, 6:45-9 p.m., meets every other month, InovaLoudoun Hospital Radiation Oncology Center, 44035 Riverside Pkwy.,Suite 100, Leesburg. Free. 703-858-8850.

'REACH TO RECOVERY,' home-visitation program for mastectomy andlumpectomy patients, sponsored by the American Cancer Society;temporary prostheses, exercise instruction, and encouragement. Free.703-938-5550.

CEREBRAL PALSY SUPPORT, parents with children newborn to 10 yearswho have cerebral palsy. Leesburg and Purcellville areas. Call forinformation. Free. 540-668-6832.

CHRONIC ILLNESS SUPPORT, 10:30-11 a.m. Tuesdays, FauquierHospital Bistro on the Hill restaurant (wheelchair accessible), 500Hospital Dr., Warrenton. Sponsored by the Spiritual Care SupportMinistries. 540-349-5814 or www.scsm.tv.

COMPASSIONATE FRIENDS, for parents who have experienced the deathof a child, 7:30 p.m. first Wednesdays, St. James' Episcopal Church,14 Cornwall St. NW, Leesburg. Free. 540-882-9707.

CRISISLINK, suicide and crisis prevention, intervention andresponse organization. Nonprofit organization serves NorthernVirginia. Organization also provides community education andtraining in mental health issues, has a certified volunteer crisisresponse team and offers CareRing, a free, daily telephone outreachprogram for elderly and disabled people. Help is needed for thesuicide and crisis hot line. Call for training schedule. 703-527-6016, www.crisislink.org or volunteer@crisislink.org.

DUAL DIAGNOSIS ANONYMOUS, support group for people with substanceabuse and mental health challenges, 7 p.m. Tuesdays, Inova LoudounHospital, Cornwall campus, 224 Cornwall St., Leesburg. Free. 301-827-7220.

FOREVER CHANGED, support for those who have lost children throughmiscarriage, stillbirth or infant death or because of othercircumstances, 7-8:30 p.m. first and third Tuesdays, Hospice Supportof Fauquier County, 42 N. Fifth St., Warrenton. Free. 540-347-5922.

GRIEF SUPPORT, 'The Bereaved Parent,' 10:30 a.m.-noon first andthird Saturdays, Spiritual Care Support Ministry Center, 76 W.Shirley Ave., Warrenton. Free. 540-349-5814.

GRIEFSHARE SUPPORT, 7:30-9 p.m. Tuesdays, Spiritual Care SupportMinistry Center, 76 W. Shirley Ave., Warrenton. Nondenominational.Free. 540-349-5814 or www.scsm.tv.

GRIEF AND LOSS SUPPORT, 7:30-9 p.m. third Wednesdays, LeesburgUnited Methodist Church parlor, 107 W. Market St. Free. 703-777-8766.

HOSPICE SUPPORT, 3:30-5 p.m. first and third Thursdays, 42 N.Fifth St., Warrenton. Open to anyone who has experienced the deathof a loved one. Register. Free. 540-347-5922 orhospicesupport@verizon.net with inquiries.

HOSPICE SUPPORT OF FAUQUIER COUNTY, four weekly training sessionsfor Fauquier residents. Participants attend all sessions and committo at least a year. Training covers hospice concept, patient comfortcare and body mechanics, listening skills, family dynamics,spiritual values, bereavement, documentation, confidentiality andfuneral home tour. For time, dates, location and to sign up, callJoy LeBaron or Gil Brooker at 540-347-5922.

LOUDOUN CHADD SUPPORT, 7 p.m. third Thursdays, Leesburg TownHall, lower-level conference room, 25 W. Market St. Free. 703-669-2445.

MADD LOUDOUN VICTIM SUPPORT GROUP, 7:30 p.m. third Wednesdays,210 Wirt St., Leesburg. Families and significant others who havebeen affected by a drunken-driving crash. 540-338-6491.

MEDITATION GROUP, 6:30-8 p.m. the last Tuesday of the month,Inova Loudoun Hospital Radiation Oncology Center, 44035 RiversidePkwy., Leesburg. Support group for patients, families and friendstouched by cancer. Learn about and practice meditation. Free. 703-858-8850.

MITRAL VALVE PROLAPSE-DYSAUTONOMIA SUPPORT, noon, secondTuesdays. Free. For program details and location, 703-689-9240.

OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS, 12-step program for those with eatingdisorders, 8-9 p.m. Fridays, Ashburn Presbyterian Church, 20962Ashburn Rd., 703-823-6682; 7:30-8:30 p.m. Wednesdays, LeesburgPresbyterian Church, 207 W. Market St., 540-338-7483 days, 540-882-3988 evenings; 7 p.m. Thursdays, Seventh-day Adventist Church, 7485Lee Hwy., Warrenton, 540-439-0790; 8:45 a.m. Saturdays, second-floor sunroom, Inova Loudoun Hospital, Cornwall campus, 224 CornwallSt. Leesburg. Use the south entrance and follow the signs toelevators. Free. 540-751-0685; 7:30-8:30 p.m. Mondays, St. Peter'sEpiscopal Church, 37018 Glendale St., Purcellville. Free. 540-338-7483; 7-8 p.m. Tuesdays, Cascades Library, 21030 Whitfield Pl.,Potomac Falls. Free. 703-437-1521.

PARKINSON'S SUPPORT, 'Yoga-Lite for Parkinson's,' 1:30-3:30 p.m.Mondays in Leesburg. Increase flexibility, balance and strength andlearn stress management and correct breathing. Registrationrequired. $20 session. 540-668-6755 or mnhollyfield@yahoo.com.

PET LOSS SUPPORT, Spiritual Care Support Ministry Center, 76 W.Shirley Ave., Warrenton. Free. 540-349-5814.

SEXUAL ASSAULT AND INCEST SURVIVORS GROUP COUNSELING, allservices provided by Loudoun Citizens for Social Justice and LoudounAbused Women's Shelter are free and confidential. 703-771-9020.

SEXUAL ASSAULT SURVIVORS EMPOWERMENT SUPPORT, sponsored by SexualAssault Victims Volunteer Initiative, Mondays. Child care availablewith 48-hour notice. Call for time and location. Free. 540-349-7720.

SINGLEPOINTE, singles 30 and older, 7:30-9:30 p.m. Fridays,Christian Fellowship Church, 21673 Beaumeade Cir., Ashburn. Livemusic, discussions, practical principles for living the single life.Refreshments available; child care available for those 2 and older.Free. 703-724-4916 or www.singlepointe.org.

SPIRITUAL CARE SUPPORT MINISTRIES, provides support, educationand a biblical perspective through individual sessions, supportgroups, retreats, Bible studies and social events. Training providedfor those who would like to know how to minister to people who aresick or grieving the loss of loved ones. Free. 540-349-5814.

SPIRITUAL SUPPORT GROUP, 6:30-8 p.m. third Tuesdays, InovaLoudoun Hospital Radiation Oncology Center, 44035 Riverside Pkwy.,Leesburg. Cancer patients, family members and friends. Learn aboutusing your spiritual resources to help cope with cancer. Free. 703-858-8850.

SPOUSE LOSS SUPPORT, 7:30-9 p.m. Tuesdays, Spiritual Care SupportMinistry Center, 76 W. Shirley Ave., Warrenton. Free. 540-349-5814.

WOMEN'S SUPPORT, sponsored by Services to Abused Families, 6:30-8 p.m. Tuesdays. Confidential location. Free. 540-825-8876.

CHOICES WEIGHT LOSS SUPPORT, 7 p.m. Mondays, Loudoun ValleyCommunity Center, Purcellville. $5 to join; $2 monthly. Firstmeeting free. 540-338-4854.

NORTHERN DISTRICT VIRGINIA DIETETIC ASSOCIATION, speakers bureauof registered dietitians and diet technicians who address topicssuch as weight management, vegetarian diets, quick and healthfulmeals, planning and preparation, sports nutrition, understandingfood labels, nutrition for seniors and diet needs for heart diseasepatients and diabetics. Available to schools and civic and businessgroups in Loudoun, Fairfax and Prince William counties.www.northernvirginiadietitians.org.

TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY, weight-loss support group, 5-6 p.m.weigh-in, 6-7 p.m. meeting, Tuesdays, Midland Church of theBrethren. $25 a year. 540-439-3739. TOPS support group meets at 6:15p.m. Tuesdays, SunTrust Bank, Routes 29 and 17, Warrenton. $20 ayear. 540-439-3671.

WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY SUPPORT, group forming in Loudoun. 703-967-4379 or supportgroup4wls@aol.com.

-- Compiled by SANDY MAUCK

To Submit an Item

E-mail: lextra@washpost.com

Fax: 703-777-8437

Mail: Loudoun Extra, The Washington Post, 305 Harrison St. SE,Suite 100-A, Leesburg, Va. 22075

OIL SPILL PUTS WOMEN'S HEALTH IN PERIL? - States News Service

New Orleans, LA -- The following information was released by Tulane University:

Keith Brannon

kbrannon@tulane.edu

Dr. Maureen Lichtveld of the Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine will lead a five-year study to explore the potential health impacts of the Deepwater Horizon disaster on pregnant women and women of reproductive age living in Louisiana's coastal parishes. The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences has awarded a $6.5 million grant for the study.

Dr. Maureen Lichtveld, chair of environmental policy, will lead the first long-term study to examine the effects of a major oil spill on pregnant women and women's health. (Photo by Paula Burch-Celentano)

This is the first long-term study to examine the effects of a major oil spill on pregnant women and women's health, says Lichtveld, Freeport McMoRan Chair of Environmental Policy.

'Pregnant women are always a population of concern when there are environmental exposures, as the developing fetus may be vulnerable to even small doses of contaminants,' Lichtveld says. 'To our knowledge, this is also the first study to examine maternal stress and anxiety related to a major oil spill and the associated effects on birth outcomes, fetal health and family-planning behavior.'

The grant creates the Transdisciplinary Research Consortium for Gulf Resilience on Women's Health at Tulane. The consortium will quantify potential exposure levels among women to environmental contaminants via seafood consumption and air emissions; study how disasters affect reproduction decisions; and explore how environmental and social disparities affect women's health and pregnancies.

The study covers Jefferson, Lafourche, Orleans, Plaquemines, St. Bernard and Terrebonne parishes. The consortium will partner with community groups to conduct its research.

'The entire research consortium is centered around community-based participatory research,' Lichtveld says. 'Our communities will help design the studies, are active partners in implementing the studies, and will play a leadership role in translating and disseminating the study results. This assures that we make science work for our communities.'

MAYOR DEAN ANNOUNCES 'EXCELLENCE IN VOLUNTEER ENGAGEMENT' RECIPIENTS - US Fed News Service, Including US State News

NASHVILLE, Tenn., March 23 -- The city of Nashville issued the following press release:

Mayor Karl Dean announced today the 42 nonprofit organizations that received the first round of the Excellence in Volunteer Engagement (EVE) certification, an initiative to recognize high-quality volunteer management by nonprofits and to help increase the number of volunteers in Davidson County. It is the first such certification effort in the nation.

Excellence in Volunteer Engagement was developed last year by the Mayor's Office, in partnership with Hands On Nashville and the Center for Nonprofit Management, to recognize nonprofit agencies with effective volunteer programs and to encourage other organizations to join them in improving their volunteer opportunities so they can maximize their resources and provide the best quality services possible. Dean recognized the recipients at an event this morning at the Center for Nonprofit Management at Rolling Mill Hill.

'I have always been proud of the strong volunteer spirit that Nashville has,' Dean said. 'I commend these nonprofits for providing the types of meaningful volunteer experiences that engage the passion of our volunteers and put their skills to the best use. These organizations have also been important in increasing the number of volunteers in our city. I congratulate them on their achievements, and I thank Hands On Nashville and the Center for Nonprofit Management for leading the implementation of this significant program.'

The 42 organizations that achieved certification include such groups as Big Brothers Big Sisters of Middle TN, Nashville Area Habitat for Humanity, FiftyForward and Pencil Foundation.

'These nonprofits are accomplishing their missions by managing successful volunteer programs,' said Lewis Lavine, President of the Center for Nonprofit Management. 'We are pleased to recognize them as the first agencies in the country to achieve EVE certification.'

A panel of judges representing the community determined which agencies qualified for a two-year certification. Certified organizations showed effectiveness in specific areas of volunteer management, including a defined volunteer program with an identified, dedicated and trained manager, a screening process that aligns volunteers' skills and abilities with appropriate tasks, orientation for all volunteers and an evaluation process to affirm a volunteer's impact on the community and agency.

'Volunteers are an invaluable community resource,' said Brian N. Williams, executive director of Hands On Nashville. 'When nonprofits empower volunteers to maximize their potential, service increases in meaning and impact. This inaugural group of EVE-certified nonprofits does just that.'

Application is open to all nonprofit agencies in Davidson County with no restrictions on the size or budget of the organization and no application fee. EVE applications are due quarterly, and the next group of certified nonprofits will be announced mid-summer. Applications can be found on the Center for Nonprofit Management's website, External Linkwww.cnm.org, or Hands On Nashville's website, External Linkwww.hon.org

Excellence in Volunteer Engagement is part of the Mayor's Office 'Impact Nashville' initiative, which Dean launched on Sept. 30, 2010, as part of the national Cities of Service movement.

Impact Nashville directs volunteerism toward two top priorities, public education and the environment. Aligned with the goals of the Cities of Service national coalition, Impact Nashville strives to improve the impact of volunteerism across our city in four areas: the impact for those being served, the impact for the volunteer, the impact on the agency's mission and the impact on our community.

The 42 nonprofits certified for the first round of the Excellence in Volunteer Engagement are the following:

* Alive Hospice

* American Red Cross/Nashville Area Chapter

* American Red Cross/TN Valley Region Blood Services

* Arts & Business Council of Greater Nashville

* Big Brothers Big Sisters of Middle TN

* Book'em

* CASA Inc., of Davison County

* Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art

* Christian Women's Job Corps

* Country Music Hall of Fame

* Family and Children's Services Crisis Center and 2-1-1

* FiftyForward

* Friends Life

* Friends of Warner Parks

* Girl Scouts of Middle Tennessee

* Interfaith Dental Clinic

* Martha O'Bryan Center

* Nashville Adult Literacy Council

* Nashville Area Habitat for Humanity

* Nashville Cares

* Nashville Public Library

* Oasis Center

* Pencil Foundation

* Room In the Inn's Campus for Human Development

* Safe Haven Family Shelter

* Second Harvest Food Bank of Nashville

* Siloam Family Health Center

* Sports 4 All Foundation

* St. Luke's Community Center

* Susan G. Komen Greater Nashville

* Ten Thousand Villages

* Tennessee Voices for Children

* Frist Center for the Visual Arts

* The Nashville Food Project

* The Next Door

* The Salvation Army

* Thriftsmart

* TN Center for Performance Excellence

* TN Performing Arts Center

* W.

O. Smith/Nashville Community Music School

* Youth Encouragement Services

* YWCA For any query with respect to this article or any other content requirement, please contact Editor at htsyndication@hindustantimes.com

The Record, Stockton, Calif., Business Spotlight Column. - Knight Ridder/Tribune Business News

By Michelle Machado, The Record, Stockton, Calif. Knight Ridder/Tribune Business News

Apr. 26--For 20 years, Dr. Yi-Po Anthony Wu has served the Stockton community through his private internal medicine practice and his volunteer work at St, Mary's Interfaith Medical Clinic.

A decade ago, he formed Pacific Complementary Medicine Center, which combines Eastern and Western healing arts and sciences.

Western medicine focuses on chemical and surgical intervention to treat acute conditions, whereas Eastern medicine looks at the whole body system to not only relieve symptoms, but to improve overall health.

The center's traditional Chinese component consists of acupuncture and herbal therapy treatment and Tai Chi, Liu Tong and Hatha-yoga exercise.

The center also offers therapeutic massage, stress management, meditation and referral to other holistic services.

Additionally, the center works with several San Joaquin County agencies to provide an acupuncture-based chemical dependency treatment program and provides a public annual spring seminar series, which this year begins on May 3

On Wednesday, Wu looked back at his life. In his own words:

'My father was a surgeon trained in Japan. He came back to Taiwan to practice medicine after the war (World War II). My grandfather was a doctor, too. My uncle was an herbalist and an acupuncturist.

Chinese use both doctors and herbalists. Most of the time, we don't want to see a doctor because it's a little expensive and it's really not necessary.

My father sometimes would ask my uncle to come in and help a patient. Even though they might go to my father if they needed surgery, my uncle might do the acupuncture. Cancer patients coming in, besides being treated with medicine or surgery, would have some herbs.

I graduated from National Taiwan University in Taipei, the capital. After graduating, I went to Hawaii to get my degree in public health. Then, I worked for about five years in a church with the Hawaiian indigent. After I met Teresa, I went to Massachusetts for my further medical training in internal medicine. I have a diploma in internal medicine.

I spent about six months as a hematology/oncology fellow at the University of Massachusetts. I found I could not stay any longer because oncology is a very depressing field. You see some of the patients one time, and they disappear.

I was basically interested in primary care, so I decided that was the way I would go.

'I was looking for a place to practice.

We were friends with a social worker in Massachusetts who said, 'If you want to serve humanity, go to Stockton. Did you ever read about Michael Harrington's 'The Other America', the rich side and the poor side? In Stockton, there is a north side and a south side separated by the Crosstown freeway.'

It piqued our interest.

I didn't know anyone here. I went to the medical society. I found there were some physicians here in town that came from my high school. I liked a town like this with multiple ethnicities.

We went back to Massachusetts. The next morning I woke up and said to Teresa, 'Let's go to Stockton.'

'We started with zero patients. I was very brave at that time. Now, I don't think anyone would dare to do that.

I went to visit some of the emergency rooms and said I am here if you need me, and patients slowly moved in.

Most of the physicians would not accept this. In the beginning, no physician would refer to me.

I rented for three years a suite from an established physician in town. At the end of that third year, I said that I might continue to stay, but he said I should not because it seemed that I was not going to make it. He said, 'Only the physician who cannot make it would do acupuncture.''

But now, it has changed a lot. Today, no physician would say that to me.

Physicians now refer to me. For surgeons, acupuncture is quite often one of the alternatives they will think about for pain control after surgery. Lung specialists, when they want a patient to quit smoking, and dermatologists, who have a skin condition they cannot handle, also ask for help.

But they are not going to tell the patient that acupuncture is the first choice. They use Western medicine first. The last resort is to go see Dr. Wu.'

Yi-Po Anthony Wu, M.D., M.P.H.

-- Occupation: Medical director, Pacific Complementary Medicine Center, 645 W. Harding Way, Stockton

-- Age: 57

-- Birthplace: ChangHua, Taiwan

-- Education: Medical College, National Taiwan University; School of Public Health, University of Hawaii

-- Family: Wife, Teresa Chen; daughter, Suzanne; and son, Albert

-- Quote: Dr. Albert Schweitzer -- 'reverence for life'

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