Meeting opened with update by Sharon Foster on the revised workplan and budget submitted to the Bureau of Health for the tobacco grant the previous week. Workplan did not require many changes, other than the adjustment of original time lines. The original budget has been reduced by $11,000, from $325,800 to $314,600, to reflect program cuts by the Legislature. Sharon shared copies of the new budget, which is based on having two School Health Coordinators for the five school districts, rather than the three positions originally proposed. Sharon pointed out that budget lines have been increased for computer purchases, training and travel, supplies and postage.

Sharon Foster reported that SAD 46 has re-advertised for its School Health Coordinator position after the candidate offered the job last month turned down the position. There are six new candidates, several from out of state, and SAD 46 reports the applicant pool is stronger than before. There should be a SHC on board in the district in July.
Sharon also reported that the Q cards program has proven popular locally. A new batch has been received for Fathers' Day and will be available at Mr. Paperback in Dover-Foxcroft and Millside Pharmacy in Dexter.

Under new business,

• Sharon Foster reported that Partnership for a Tobacco-Free Maine has selected our area as one of five from across Maine for a program in which local high school students will film anti-tobacco commercials. Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) at Foxcroft Academy is involved in this project.
• Sharon has received training in conducting community PANT (Physical Activity, Nutrition and Tobacco) assessments and discussed the five core indicators that will be assessed.
• We will need to add two students on the Executive Committee of the PPHC in the next 3-4 months. We need to recruit 20 youth for our Youth Advocacy Program (YAP), and then have two members from that group designated as Executive Committee members. It was suggested that two 7th-graders and two 10th-graders from each of the five school districts comprise the 20 YAP members. Recruitment of students will begin in August so that they may attend a leadership training program at Camp Kieve on Sept. 29.
• PPHC will have an anti-tobacco booth at the Dover-Foxcroft Homecoming Aug. 4 and at the Piscataquis Valley Fair Aug. 23-26.
• Sharon reported that PTM and Medical Care Development are developing a Legacy grant proposal designating the Dover-Foxcroft and Rockland areas as pilot sites targeting tobacco-reduction efforts for families in the low socioeconomic group. If successful, this grant will dovetail with our work.
• Susan Crippen invited PPHC members to attend the Sept. 4 meeting of the Piscataquis Oral Health Coalition, which will address the impact of nutrition on dental health.

Meeting adjourned. Next meeting; 4 p.m. Thursday, July 12, at Mayo.

Minutes submitted by Tom Lizotte