As I prepare our news for the June NCFR Report, we are in the midst of reviewing submissions for the annual conference in Orlando. I want to take a moment to thank all of you who graciously agreed to assist with our review process. It is always a rush to get reviews done in a timely way; that is, completed and judgments made in time for the 2011Program Committee Meeting in April. The saying, "I couldn't have done it without you," has never been more sincere. Your service to our section is greatly appreciated.

I want to encourage all section members to consider submitting papers for our awards this year. We have two Family and Health Section awards: a Student Paper Award and a Professional Paper Award. The selection committee is chaired by Section Chair-Elect Elise Radina. Papers are peer reviewed by members of our section. Here are the criteria:

• Papers should not exceed 15 pages, including graphs, figures, and reference list.
• Papers can be published, but should be current (published within the last year).
• If not first author, a statement by first author validating applicant's contribution.
• Due no later than October 1, 2011.

The winners will be notified by November 1, with awards presented at the Family and Health Section business meeting at the NCFR Annual Conference in Orlando.

In closing, I am in the process of collaborating with other sections to sponsor timely and exceptional special sessions for the annual conference. I will have final details in a short while and will include for your information more about these sessions. Many of you offered suggestions for Family and Health Special Sessions and I have saved these to move ahead with for our 2012 annual meeting when our conference theme will be Families and Health.

Enjoy a wonderful summer. I look forward to seeing you in November. 

B. Jan McCulloch, Chair
Family and Health Section

jmccullo@umn.edu