Delaware Launches ‘Ask the Question’ Campaign to Combat Veteran Suicide  

New campaign spearheaded by Lt. Gov. Hall-Long and Delaware Governor’s Challenge seeks to help identify military members and veterans with mental health concerns  

WILMINGTON, Del. — Lieutenant Governor Bethany Hall-Long and the Delaware Governor’s Challenge announced a new campaign on Thursday that aims to better identify suicide risk among military members and veterans. The “Ask the Question” campaign will be piloted at the Delaware Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health’s Bridge Clinics.   

The campaign centers around breaking the stigma and identifying risk by first asking the question: Have you, or a member of your immediate family, ever served in the military? The goal is to connect Delawareans with service experience to resources that they’ve earned and help address their unique needs.    

“While we’ve taken steps to address suicide prevention, there are still far too many Delawareans reluctant to seek help and share their experiences. Our military members are especially at risk with veterans and service members 4 times more likely to die by suicide than civilian counterparts,” said Lt. Governor Bethany Hall-Long, Ph.D, R.N and co-chair of the Delaware Governor’s Challenge. Asking the question regarding service is just the entry point; this initiative is about ensuring veterans and service members are connected to the resources they’ve earned. I’m so grateful for the Delaware Governor’s Challenge team and the partnership of the DSAMH Bridge Clinics to specifically respond to the needs of our veterans and service members through the “Ask the Question” campaign.”  

Formed in 2022, the Delaware Governor’s Challenge is co-chaired by Lieutenant Governor Bethany Hall-Long and retired Major General Frank Vavala and is in collaboration with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). It is part of a national effort that seeks to expand mental health resources for the veteran community and implement suicide prevention best practices and policies for veterans, service members, and their families across the state by using a public health approach. There are three key priority areas:   

  • Identifying Service Members, Veterans, and Their Families (SMVF) and Screening for Suicide Risk   
  • Promoting Connectedness and Improving Care Transitions   
  • Increasing Lethal Means Safety and Safety Planning   

Delaware is home to more than 66,000 veterans, according to data from SAMHSA and the VA. Through this challenge, public-private partners are working to combine community-based strategies, prevention, and intervention to support service members and veterans, and build on plans for the First State.   

Communication is the key to breaking the stigma. We have to address veteran and military suicide head-on, and asking the question about risk in a sensitive, culturally competent manner is the first step,” said Major General Frank Vavala. “Our military members put their lives on hold to serve their country, we need to be there for them when they cry out for help.”    

“Ask the Question” serves as a call to action and has been adopted in other states participating in the national Governor’s Challenge, such as New Hampshire and Maryland. As part of Delaware’s “Ask the Question” pilot, Bridge Clinic staff will utilize a two-prong approach to identify and address suicide risk. Following the SAMHSA and VA best practice Columbia Protocol, anyone coming into the Bridge Clinics will be screened for suicide risk and asked about service status. If someone is identified as having service experience, then they will be offered a peer professional to help assess any underlying causes that may impact suicide risk like social determinants of health. Additionally, the campaign helps to connect Bridge Clinic staff with professional development opportunities on military cultural competency and resources from other states who are engaging with the Governor’s Challenge.   

“DSAMH is thankful to be a part of the ‘Ask the Question’ campaign. Asking the question, ‘Have you, or a member of your immediate family, ever served in the military?’ can lead to improved access to care and quality of care for our veterans. This initiative will engage and educate providers throughout Delaware about the importance of connecting with those who have served,” said Dr. Gerard Gallucci, MD MHS, Acting Medical Director for the Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health.  

Are you a clinician, provider, family member, service member or veteran looking to get involved with the Delaware Governor’s Challenge? Here are a few ways to link with the team:  

  • Visit the website de.gov/governorschallenge to learn more   
  • Email bhc@delaware.gov to join a workgroup on a challenge priority area   

Additional Resources:   

  • Visit helpisherede.com   
  • Delaware Hope Line: Dial 1 (833) 9-HOPEDE   
  • Delaware 211: Dial 211 
  • National Suicide and Crisis Hotline: Dial 988; Veterans and their loved ones can now Dial 988, then press 1 to reach the Veterans Crisis Line  


Five Dynamic Speakers Announced for 2023 Delaware Arts Summit

STATEWIDE, Del. (September 29, 2023) – The 2023 Delaware Arts Summit proudly presents an exceptional lineup of speakers who will inspire and enlighten 200 attendees. This year’s summit, taking place on October 9, promises to be a gathering of visionaries and enthusiasts in the arts and culture sector. With a focus on innovation, collaboration, and creativity, the summit aims to foster conversations that will shape the future of Delaware’s vibrant arts community.

The five speakers at the 2023 Delaware Arts Summit are:

Roberto Lugo – Ceramicist, Artist, and Social Activist

Featured Artist at the Conference

Roberto Lugo, a multi-talented artist, poet, and educator based in Philadelphia, has masterfully combined classical pottery forms with themes of urban life, poverty, inequality, and racial justice. His work reimagines traditional ceramics with a 21st-century street sensibility, featuring iconic portraits of historical figures and his own family members. Lugo’s art is showcased in prestigious institutions such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. He currently serves as an Assistant Professor at Tyler School of Art and Architecture.

Dori Kelner – Principal, Insightful Culture

Topic: “The Art of Stress Transformation”

Dori Kelner, a seasoned tech professional turned corporate wellness advocate, brings her wealth of experience in the high-pressure tech industry to help individuals and organizations achieve holistic well-being. In her interactive session, “The Art of Stress Transformation,” attendees will explore the profound connection between stress reduction and professional creativity. Kelner will guide participants through creative activities that enhance self-awareness, fuel innovative thinking, and unlock fresh perspectives within the workplace.

Rebecca Mwase – Theater and Performance Artist, Cultural Organizer

Topic: “Relationship Building as Praxis; one conversation at a time”

Rebecca Mwase is a multi-disciplinary artist, ritualist, and community builder, known for her transformative ceremonial processes that promote healing and self-realization. In her session, “Relationship Building as Praxis,” attendees will learn the four C’s of Community Building: connection, communication, curiosity, and care. These principles can be applied to any sphere of life, fostering deeper connections and community engagement.

Patricia Rivera – CEO and Founder, Hook PR & Marketing

Topic: “How to Tell Arts Stories that Resonate Widely”

Patricia Rivera, an award-winning journalist turned PR and marketing visionary, will delve into the art of multicultural storytelling. Her workshop will equip participants with the skills to create compelling narratives that elevate arts organizations, strengthen communities, and unite people. Attendees will learn to craft stories that resonate widely, fostering authenticity and driving action.

Benjamin Wagner – Founder, Essential Industries, Inc.

Topic: “Managing Uncertainty”

Benjamin Wagner, a consultant and creative, will address the challenges of managing uncertainty in today’s post-pandemic world. With insights from integrative medicine, neuroscience, and psychology, Wagner will share practical strategies for handling everyday uncertainty. Attendees will leave with valuable tools to improve well-being and navigate a rapidly changing environment.

Performers at the Summit

In addition to these dynamic speakers, the 2023 Delaware Arts Summit will feature captivating performances by renowned artists, including:

TAHIRA – A storyteller, musician, songwriter, and 2023 Master Fellow who has performed internationally. Performing with Darnell Miller.

IVA – A versatile vocalist, songwriter, and 2023 Master Fellow recognized for her powerful voice and cinematic music. Performing with Geoff Bennington.

The 2023 Delaware Arts Summit promises to be an enriching experience, bringing together diverse perspectives and talents to inspire and empower all participants. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a transformative event that will shape the future of Delaware’s arts and culture landscape.

Details of the event are:

  • Location: Hyatt Place Dewey Beach: Hyatt Place Dewey Beach, 1301 Coastal Hwy, Dewey Beach, DE 19971
  • Dates: Monday, October 9, 2023, with an optional pre-conference on Sunday, October 8, 2023.
  • Registration Fees: The Delaware Arts Summit is currently sold out.  To be placed on a waiting list, contact Dana Wise at Dana.Wise@delaware.gov.
  • For media inquiries or further information, please contact Andrew Truscott at Andrew.Truscott@delaware.gov.

About the Delaware Division of the Arts
The Delaware Division of the Arts is an agency of the State of Delaware. Together with its advisory body, the Delaware State Arts Council, the Division administers grants and programs that support arts programming, educate the public, increase awareness of the arts, and integrate the arts into all facets of Delaware life. Funding for Division programs is provided by annual appropriations from the Delaware General Assembly and grants from the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency. For more information about the Delaware Division of the Arts, visit arts.delaware.gov or call 302-577-8278.


Governor Carney Declares October Delaware Cybersecurity Awareness Month

Register for Activities Statewide Throughout October 2023

 

Dover, Del. — It has been two decades since the federal launch of October as Cybersecurity Awareness Month. Over the past twenty years, cybersecurity protection strategies have changed drastically. In response to the ever-evolving cyber landscape, Governor John Carney and Lieutenant Governor Bethany Hall-Long are providing their support by again proclaiming October as Delaware’s Cybersecurity Awareness Month. This allows resources to be made available to provide free events including informational tables, presentations, workshops, and other activities throughout the State to help Delawareans of all ages to learn how to improve their security posture.  These programs cover topics on Protection (social media security and privacy information), Device Security (hands-on instruction on setting up device security on Android and Apple devices), and Detection (identifying, reporting, and learning about current scams).  Cyber Security Awareness Month will culminate with the 14th Annual Secure Delaware Workshop on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the University of Delaware’s Clayton Hall.

“We must learn to protect ourselves in the digital age and it takes all of us to help keep our data secure. I encourage everyone to take advantage of the free activities and resources made available during Cybersecurity Awareness Month,” said Governor John Carney. “I want to thank the Delaware Department of Technology and Information for their efforts in educating the public of the risks and keeping Delaware safe from cyber-attacks.”

“We love to see advancements in technology for the convenience to the public and accuracy of data for business uses, but there is always an inherent risk that the technology can be used criminally. We’ve seen recent occurrences of cybersecurity attacks in the news, but much more common are incidents of credit card and identity theft — all of which can have devastating impacts,” said State of Delaware CIO Gregory Lane. “Bad actors only get more sophisticated, which is why it is so important that everyone learns how to protect themselves and stay safe online. Delaware Cybersecurity Awareness Month events provide opportunities that everyone can leverage to learn to be more vigilant.”

Delawareans of all ages are encouraged to join the events offered throughout October, including the Cybersecurity Awareness Month finale event — the 14th annual Secure Delaware Workshop. Presented by the Delaware Department of Technology and Information (DTI) along with the Delaware League of Local Governments, Delaware Small Business Development Center, and the University of Delaware; the 2023 Secure Delaware Workshop provides training for businesses, students, and government employees that work, study, or live in Delaware. This free, in-person event is being held on Tuesday, October 24th from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the University of Delaware’s Clayton Hall and will include two keynote speakers and nine breakout sessions designed to have something for everyone.  Whether you are a student just getting into the field and want to learn more about creating your own cyber range, a business manager concerned with the newest cyber laws and cyber insurance changes, or a long-term IT professional interested in attack simulation, deception technology, or ChatGPT, this conference has something for you.  This event offers the perfect opportunity to network with cyber professionals and technology vendors.

To learn more about cyber events happening in Delaware including Secure Delaware Workshop 2023 with registration information, visit the event page at https://digiknow.dti.delaware.gov/events/. There is no cost to attend any State of Delaware’s Cybersecurity Awareness Month activities. Please note that registration is limited for each of the events and final registration to attend the Secure Delaware Workshop closes October 6th.

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Media Contact:

Christina Dirksen, Strategic Communications Manager, DTI
(302) 739-9736 w Christina.Dirksen@state.de.us

About the Delaware Department of Technology and Information

The Department of Technology and Information (DTI) is the state’s central IT organization, chartered to deliver core services to other state organizations and exercise governance over the technology direction and investments of the state. DTI provides enterprise services that enable other organizations to effectively fulfill their missions.

 

 


Governor Carney Orders Lowering of Flags for International Overdose Awareness Day

WILMINGTON, Del. – Governor John Carney has ordered the Delaware flag to be lowered to half-staff at all state facilities on Thursday, August 31, 2023, from sunrise to sunset, in recognition of International Overdose Awareness Day, as declared by Senate Joint Resolution 2.

Local governments, businesses, and Delawareans are encouraged to do the same to promote awareness of overdose prevention strategies and to acknowledge all who have suffered the loss of a loved one to overdose.

“For too long, Delaware has struggled with a high rate of overdose deaths,” said Governor Carney. “We all know families that have lost a loved one to addiction or overdose and understand how difficult a challenge this can be to address. Today, we recognize and remember all those who have been impacted by this crisis and recommit to supporting those in need. I want to thank our first responders, medical professionals, and all those who play a role in keeping our communities safe from overdoses.”

“Tackling the opioid crisis takes dogged determination, but I know it is also so hard on the heart. On this International Overdose Awareness Day, we’re taking time to remember the Delawareans we’ve lost. Right now, there’s an empty chair at the kitchen table, a place missing on the soccer sidelines, and a deep, aching grieving for too many families. It’s so important we raise awareness and keep laser-focused on what we can do to uplift one another up in the darkest of times. Through the Behavioral Health Consortium and the Prescription Opioid Settlement Distribution Commission, we are helping to take action and support our communities. Let’s continue to confront this epidemic together and provide hope to our families across the First State,” said Lt. Governor Bethany Hall-Long, Chair of the Delaware Behavioral Health Consortium. 

 

Additional Resources:

Visit helpisherede.com

Delaware Hope Line: Dial 1 (833) 9-HOPEDE

Delaware 211: Dial 211

National Suicide and Crisis Hotline: Dial 988


Lt. Gov. Hall-Long Celebrates the Signing of Legislation to Create Delaware’s First Rare Disease Advisory Council

Governor Carney caps a years-long legislative effort by signing Senate Bill 55

WILMINGTON, Del. – On Wednesday, Lieutenant Governor Bethany Hall-Long joined lawmakers and advocates as Governor John Carney signed Senate Bill 55, legislation to create a new advisory body for Delawareans living with rare diseases. Sponsored by Senator Nicole Poore and Representative Krista Griffith and championed by Lieutenant Governor Hall-Long, Senate Bill 55 would establish a Rare Disease Advisory Council (RDAC) in Delaware to help identify and address barriers to treatment and care, fostering robust dialogue around research, resources, and best practices.

Under this legislation, the council will be comprised of stakeholders from across the rare disease community including health care providers, elected officials, researchers, patients, and caregivers. There are approximately 7,000 known rare diseases, which can impact individuals in a variety of ways from lack of affordable and accessible treatment therapies to challenges with diagnosis and misdiagnosis.

“As a nurse and as a mom, I know there is nothing more impactful than making sure that when your family wakes up in the morning, their wellbeing is taken care of. This legislation has been a long time in the making, but it’s about making sure Delawareans with rare diseases and their families have the care they need,” said Lt. Governor Bethany Hall-Long, nurse and PhD, who has led on this legislation dating back to her time in the State Senate. “The over 7000 known rare diseases have a great impact on Delawareans, causing anxiety and having real implications for treatment and their futures. I’m so appreciative to Senator Poore, Representative Griffith, Governor Carney and the advocates here today for their leadership to create this collaborative policy, which will make a tremendous difference in the lives of Delawareans facing rare diseases.”

It is estimated that 25-30 million Americans suffer from a rare disease. Delaware now joins 26 other states across the nation that have established a Rare Disease Advisory Council.

More than 90% of rare disease do not have an FDA-approved treatment, according to the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD). Challenges with treatment options combined with unsustainable medical costs can negatively impact the care of an individual with a rare disease.

“Delaware families facing a rare disease experience incredible challenges, from obtaining a correct diagnosis to finding specialists, therapies and medication” said Senator Nicole Poore, vice chair of the Senate Health & Social Services Committee and the prime sponsor of Senate Bill 55. “Those families need a voice who can help to advocate for them, raise awareness about the unique issues they face and help our state to better meet their needs. I want to thank Lt. Governor Bethany Hall-Long and the National Organization for Rare Disorders for their tireless advocacy in the creation of the Delaware Rare Diseases Advisory Council. I also want to thank my colleagues in the Delaware General Assembly for proving once again that we will do whatever it takes to support Delaware’s most vulnerable residents.”

“Individuals with rare diseases often have to suffer for long periods of time before receiving a critical diagnosis to begin therapy and treatment for their condition. Their calendars fill up with doctors’ appointments and diagnostic tests and still can find no answer for what ails them,” added Representative Krista Griffith, lead House sponsor of the legislation. “I’m proud to stand alongside Sen. Poore and Lt. Governor Bethany Hall-Long in sponsoring SB 55 because I believe this law will close a gap that so many Delawareans face when they have a rare disease. By creating the Delaware Rare Disease Advisory Council, we are opening up opportunities for better and quicker access to diagnosis and treatment. I’m thankful for the advocates who fought for this group and look forward to the council’s efforts with other biotechnology leaders to fund and develop new treatments for rare diseases.”

“An estimated one in ten Americans is living with a rare disease, but many patients struggle to find knowledgeable health care providers with relevant expertise and access to necessary care and treatment for their complex condition. NORD is thrilled to see Delaware join the growing number of states that have established a Rare Disease Advisory Council, and we are so thankful to Senator Poore, Representative Griffith, Lt. Governor Hall-Long and Governor Carney for their efforts,” said Heidi Ross, Vice President of Policy and Regulatory Affairs at the National Organization for Rare Disorders.