Virginia Commonwealth University News Services Winter Closing Advisory and Story Offerings

By Anne Buckley

Virginia Commonwealth University will be closed Dec. 21, 2007, through Jan.1, 2008, for the winter holiday break. Media are advised that University News Services will be available for emergencies only during this time.

All enterprise reporting should be handled before the closing date. The 24-hour, on-call pager number for genuine news emergencies is (804) 759-7675. The office reopens on Jan. 2. In the meantime, some holiday story ideas follow for your consideration.

HOME FROM THE BATTLEFIELD FOR THE HOLIDAYS
It's the best present of them all. A soldier, sailor or Marine serving in a faraway place is back home with family and friends for the holidays. Yet the experience can be very stressful for them and their families. Steve Danish, Ph.D., professor of psychology, can discuss the psychological challenges that remain after active military service ends and offer tips for family and friends who want to help. Contact: Mike Porter, (804) 828-7037, mrporter@vcu.edu.

A RECIPE FOR BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER
Whether it's Christmas carols about "figgy pudding" and "chestnuts roasting on an open fire" or families enjoying soofganiot (doughnuts) and latkas or livivot (potato pancakes) during Hanukkah, food plays a central role in religious holiday celebrations. Kristin M. Swenson, Ph.D.,assistant professor of religious studies in the School of World Studies, can discuss how holiday eating traditions reflect some of the most common and basic elements of religion and spirituality, including identity and community, hospitality, generosity, and mindfulness. Contact Mike Porter, (804) 828-7037, mrporter@vcu.edu.

I RESOLVE TO STOP MAKING NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS!
Many people make New Year's resolutions to lose weight, stop smoking, eat healthier foods and exercise more. But few of those who make resolutions are able to stick with them. Steve Danish, Ph.D., professor of psychology, can explain why New Year's resolutions fail and why we shouldn't make them in the first place.  Contact: Mike Porter, (804) 828-7037, mrporter@vcu.edu.

HOLIDAY "PRESENTS" OF MIND
It may be fun to receive gifts during the holidays, but it's actually better for your health to give them.  Everett Worthington, Ph.D., professor of psychology, can explain why giving at this time of year stimulates empathy, encourages connectedness and often leads to better mental health. Worthington is available after Dec. 17. Contact Mike Porter, (804) 828-7037, mrporter@vcu.edu.

YOU'RE ALL TOGETHER ANYWAY
Family gatherings during the holiday season provide a perfect opportunity for family members to learn about one another, discuss medical histories and answer questions. "Everyone should document their family medical history, and communication among family members is a start," said Joann Bodurtha, M.D., VCU professor of human genetics. "We are all products of genes, the environment and nurture. Each of these factors can give clues to medical conditions that may run in a family." To assist individuals in obtaining genetic health information, VCU offers lifespan services in genetics from preconception screening and prenatal diagnosis to collaboration in newborn screening follow-up, birth defects, child and adult genetic issues and familial cancer. According to Bodurtha, an understanding of basic genetics is a powerful tool for making healthy choices and determining preventive and advanced diagnostic medical options. Contact Malorie Janis, 804-827-0889 or mgjanis@vcu.edu.

PLEASE, PLEASE, CAN I, PLEASE?
Thomas Donohue, professor of mass communications and psychology, can talk about how manufacturers attempt to build interest in toys and other items by creating artificial shortages. This use of the "scarcity principle" sometimes successfully increases consumers' desire for a product. Contact: Tom Gresham, (804) 828-6051, tmgresham@vcu.edu.

PLASTIC: THE NEW CHRISTMAS CARD
Tracy Ryan, associate professor of advertising research, has done research into gift cards. Ryan can speak on a number of issues related to the use of gift cards, including gift cards' popularity, the value of the cards for retailers, specific examples of new twists that companies are putting on gift cards, the relationship between givers and receivers of gift cards (only 3 percent, for instance, said they would give a gift card to someone with whom they are romantically involved) and the motives behind giving cards and wanting cards. Contact: Tom Gresham, (804) 828-6051, tmgresham@vcu.edu.

HELPING SENIORS DURING THE HOLIDAYS
The holiday season is often a time of joy and celebration, but for some seniors, it can be a time of isolation and even depression. Learn about how this particular group copes with the holidays and winter stress and how seniors handle the holidays when they're not the ones doing the entertaining anymore. Chat with E. Ayn Welleford, Ph.D., chair and associate professor in the Department of Gerontology, who has worked extensively with formal and informal caregivers to improve elder care through education. Welleford is also available to discuss how seniors cope with a spouse who's critically ill or in a nursing home; elders at risk; warning signs to look for during holiday visits; fostering successful family relations; and activities for successful elder visitation. Contact Sathya Achia Abraham, (804) 827-0890, sbachia@vcu.edu.

HOME SAFETY IN THE SEASON
Space heaters, candles and matches are commonplace in the winter months and often are accessible to young children. The Virginia SAFE KIDS coalition emphasizes fire safety in the home as well as toy safety for children. In addition many people will host holiday gatherings for family and friends where alcohol is served. Unfortunately, alcohol poisoning is a common risk for children during the holiday season. With empty and partially empty cups sitting around at parties, some children may imitate adults or drink the beverages they see adults drinking. Sean McKenna, M.D., VCU pediatrician can talk about why even small amounts of alcohol can be dangerous to children and how to counteract the effects of alcohol in case a child accidentally ingests it. Contact Malorie Janis, 804-827-0889 or mgjanis@vcu.edu.

DANGEROUS DECORATIONS
The Virginia Poison Center, part of the VCU Medical Center's Department of Emergency Medicine, has certified poison specialists available to talk about common items that make the holidays more festive, such as holly, mistletoe and poinsettia that have the potential for disaster if accidentally ingested. In addition, prescription drugs left unsecured can be a danger to visiting relatives and small children. Toxicologists at the Poison Center can help by offering advice on how to properly secure these items as well as what to do in case they are ingested. Contact Malorie Janis, 804-827-0889 or mgjanis@vcu.edu.

HOW THE GRUDGE STOLE CHRISTMAS
Everett Worthington, Ph.D., is a professor of psychology and director of the non-profit "A Campaign for Forgiveness Research," an organization dedicated to facilitating research for personal health, harmonious relationships and peace among nations. He serves with honorary co-chairs Archbishop Desmond Tutu, psychiatrist Robert Coles and Ruby Bridges Hall. As a leader in the scientific study of forgiveness and reconciliation, Worthington has published more than 100 scientific articles or chapters and more than 13 books on forgiveness, relationship enrichment and religious values in the marriage and family. Worthington is available after Dec. 17 to discuss how forgiveness can enhance the holiday experience. Contact Mike Porter, (804) 828-7037, mrporter@vcu.edu.