Utah’s first Guanidinoacetate methyltransferase (GAMT) deficiency diagnosis through its newborn screening program today could spur the creation of similar testing in other states. According to Kim Hart, Program Director for the Newborn Screening Program at the Utah Department of Health, other states are likely to look to Utah’s success and implement their own newborn GAMT screening requirements. Utah was the first out of three states to require GAMT deficiency screening for newborns.
A rare disorder that inhibits the body’s ability to produce creatine, GAMPT causes low creatine levels can lead to intellectual disabilities such as limited speech development, seizures and autistic-like behavior. It is also treatable, especially if detected early, according to Dr. Nicola Longo, professor of Pediatrics and Chief of the Division of Medical Genetics at the University of Utah.
Martha “Marty” McLaren, a past West Seattle/South Park representative on the
Seattle Public Schools Board of Directors, has died. Ms. McLaren, a Puget Ridge resident, was 76 years old. She was a longtime educator and community advocate, but her highest-profile role was that of board member. She won election in 2011 by unseating incumbent
Steve Sundquist and then four years later was unseated herself by current board member
Leslie Harris. We talked with Ms. McLaren after her election in 2011; she spoke of her teaching career following her involvement with advocacy as a PTA leader while her children were in school. More details on her life are in her obituary, which we’ve just received:
Two new members will join the Knoxville Chamber of Commerce Board for the next three years. Leta Burke of Candi’s Flowers and Dr. Maggie Wilson of the Knoxville Veterinary Clinic were voted in during the recent board election.
Kevin Stittsworth is stepping down as President, but remaining on the board. That role will be filled by current Vice President Sara Roberts.
Other 2021 board members include Tracy Russell, Heidi Wallace, Chris Gordon, Joe Cunningham, and a City of Knoxville Representative.
Two new members will join the Knoxville Chamber of Commerce Board for the next three years. Leta Burke of Candi’s Flowers and Dr. Maggie Wilson of the Knoxville Veterinary Clinic were voted in during the recent board election.
Kevin Stittsworth is stepping down as President, but remaining on the board. That role will be filled by current Vice President Sara Roberts.
Other 2021 board members include Tracy Russell, Heidi Wallace, Chris Gordon, Joe Cunningham, and a City of Knoxville Representative.