For Immediate Release
September 18, 2002
Contact: Rusty Cheuvront or Channell Barbour (502) 564-2611 

Gov. Patton Honored By March Of Dimes For KIDS NOW

            LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Sept. 18, 2002) - Gov. Paul Patton was honored by the March of Dimes today for his contributions to children through his Early Childhood Initiative known as KIDS NOW.

“This is an honor,” said Gov. Patton. “I want to thank everyone for their commitment to the health of our children and the tireless efforts toward improving the quality of life for all Kentuckians.”

            March of Dimes President Dr. Jennifer L. Howse said the group was honoring Patton for being a “hero for Kentucky’s children.” 

            “Here in Kentucky, you are blessed with a governor who has not only a vision, but the will and the courage to implement it,” Howse said. The presentation took place at the state’s Maternal and Child Health Conference at the Galt House in Louisville.

            The KIDS NOW initiative, which was approved by the 2000 General Assembly, provides a wide array of services to Kentucky families. They include providing folic acid to women of childbearing years to help prevent birth defects, immunizations, newborn hearings screenings and other programs to make sure Kentucky children are healthy, safe and ready for school.

            Howse also said Patton and First Lady Judi Patton had been a good friend to the March of Dimes by leading the annual WalkAmerica campaign for state employees. The campaign is a major fundraiser for March of Dimes, which uses the money for research, community services, education and advocacy.

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