Nat'l Preparedness Month

September marked National Preparedness Month 2007, a nationwide effort encouraging families to take simple steps to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses, and communities. For the fourth year, the Department of Homeland Security worked with a wide array of organizations to highlight the importance of emergency preparedness and to promote the community’s involvement through events and activities across the nation, including first aid trainings, town hall meetings, and emergency drills.

"Get Ready Lincoln" was the emergency preparedness event for Lincoln County on Thursday, Sept. 27th at the Ruidoso Convention Center. Speakers instructed on making a family plan, constructing an emergency kit, tips for elderly, disabled, children and pets. The local firefighters presented a demonstration on how rescues are implemented. Attendees heard from Assistant Fire Chief Harlan Vincent, LEPC Rep Angel Shaw, Arthur Hoopes of the Gateway Relief Team, Travis Atwater, police dept, and Ray Alborn of the Lincoln County Food Bank.

In order to reach more communities with this important message of preparedness, we would like to encourage you to visit the Department of Homeland Security's website on preparedness. We have several preparedness tools and resources available here. Please consider posting and distributing these materials in appropriate locations, such as on event bulletin boards in community centers, libraries, schools, and offices.

Lincoln County Community Health Council

Photo: Far Left—Kay Strickland, Capitan Village Clerk

At table: L-R – Cindy Najar, Sec; Barbara Mader, Chair;

Nancy LaPointe, Coordinator;

Jennifer Chadwick, Vice-Chair

The Lincoln County Community Health Council in its effort to reach all of Lincoln County had its monthly meeting in the Capitan Village Hall on Tuesday, November 6^th. Members and guests were greeted by Village Clerk, Kay Strickland, in the absence of Mayor Hammons.

Capitan citizens were invited to express their health concerns in hope that the Health Council can be of assistance in reaching a positive conclusion. Capitan resident, Mrs. Crossno spoke regarding the health problems associated with living on a dirt/gravel road. She was assisted to be on the Capitan Village’s agenda for their next meeting on November 13^th and the Council will emphasize to the Village council the importance of dealing with this issue.

Other business included a new idea by Aimee Bennett to support an exhibit at the Hubbard Museum on “Health” history in Lincoln County. Mrs. Bennett will pursue this project with the Museum and all Health Council members were encouraged to collect health memorabilia for the exhibit.

The next meeting of the Lincoln County Community Health Council will be December 4^th, 8:00 AM at Community United Methodist Church, Ruidoso.