CULLOWHEE – The Department of Political Science and Public Affairs and the Public Policy Institute at Western Carolina University will host a health policy forum at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 22, in the Catamount Room of the A.K. Hinds University Center.

The health policy forum is a part of the Quality Enhancement Plan’s “Sweet ‘N Low” initiative. Designed to enhance the educational experience of students at WCU with thematic and interdisciplinary learning opportunities, the forum will address health policy issues affecting Western North Carolina.

Since 1963, February has been designated as American Heart Health Awareness Month, but according to Dr. Kit Helm, Medical Director of AMC’s Cardiac/Pulmonary Rehab Program, heart disease continues to be one of the most important health issues facing Americans today.

On Tuesday, at a special “Learning Lunch” sponsored by Angel Medical Center, Helm gave a special presentation on heart health.

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On January 21, students from the North Carolina Karate Club had the opportunity to train and test under 8th degree black belt Shigeru Takashina. Master Takashina is the chief instructor for the South Atlantic Karate Association, a graduate of the Japan Karate Association Instructor School and from Ryukoku University in Kyoto, Japan.

After warming up with kihon (basics), Master Takashina led students in practical application of self-defense techniques. Students learned how to use the basic techniques they had learned and apply them to real life situations.

More than 400 people attended Franklin Fitness Center's “Extreme Makeover” Open House on Jan. 22, which included live music, lunch, giveaways and live radio interviews.

Several prizes were awarded to Open House attendees.