(CONCORD, March 11, 2004) – A videoconference exploring food safety standards and reinforcing proper preparation techniques was offered March 9 by the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). Sponsored by the New Hampshire Lodging and Restaurant Association, the New Hampshire Grocers Association, University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension, UNH College for Lifelong Learning, Gregg Public Safety Academy, New Hampshire Public Television, and NH Department of Safety in conjunction with DHHS, the conference was held at the Police Standards and Training Building in Concord and simulcast across the state. “The Department of Health and Human Services views itself as a partner to the restaurant industry to ensure food safety, and this videoconference is one way in which we can promote these efforts statewide,” said DHHS Commissioner John A. Stephen. “We have received great support from the industry to promote the message of keeping our food safe,” noted Mary Ann Cooney, the state’s Public Health Director. “We want to build off the spirit of cooperation and collaboration to make the people who eat at New Hampshire restaurants feel safe. Education is the key.” The conference examined such topics as infectious disease threats to the food service industry, including Hepatitis A and the Norwalk Virus; what restaurants can do to eliminate the transmission of food-borne diseases; and how industry people can access more information on hygiene and other topics. Participants also were able to question food safety experts in attendance. NHPTV provided the technical support for transmitting the videoconference around the state.To watch the videoconference, go to: http://media.nhptv.org:8080/ramgen/unh/hepatitis.rm To view the full session, including Q&A, go to: http://media.nhptv.org:8080/ramgen/unh/hepatitis1.rmBeyond its award-winning local and national television programs, NHPTV is a leader in education and community outreach. NHPTV provides instructional services for 220,000 students from kindergarten through high school; offers Ready To Learn programs and services for children preschool to age 8, parents, and early education professionals; and provides professional development programs and advanced technology training for educators in New Hampshire and neighboring states. For more information about NHPTV programs that entertain, educate and enrich, visit www.nhptv.org.
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