It's hard to believe that January is over. It seems that everyone is now settled into a routine with their school schedules. Unfortunately, several viruses have also settled in and are making the rounds of students, staff and faculty. Keep in mind that the flu season is at it's peak and we can expect it to be around for the next 4-6 weeks. Stay home if you don't feel well. Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer frequently.
Today was like Christmas for me. The mail brought me two packages containing an Automated Electronic Defibrillator (AED) and other supplies recently ordered for the campus. Thanks to Dick Bollenbacher, Linda Peltier, and of course Dr. Yowell for their support in bringing this life saving device to our campus. According to the American Heart Association, many lives can be saved if bystanders quickly phone 911 and begin CPR, and if trained responders provide defibrillation within minutes. As soon as some paper and policy issues are completed, the AED will be available for use. Volunteers are needed to take the CPR/AED training. You can find out more about the classes by calling Student Health Services.
Next week, registration starts for our annual walking contest. Last year, 14 teams competed for a variety of prizes in categories such as most steps taken or most weight lost. Actual total weight lost was an impressive 262 pounds and the teams walked a whopping 5,678 miles! It remains to be seen if this year's teams can top that.