Watsonville, CA  (Profitable.com)  Nordic Naturals®, the industry leader in omega-3 fish oil, makes taking your daily fish oil easier than ever with Omega-3 Effervescent™. This innovative powder containing the omega-3s EPA and DHA mixes with water for a delicious orange-flavored beverage. The revolutionary delivery system is clean on the palate and offers all the amazing health benefits of omega-3s and vitamin D3, such as heart, brain, joint and bone support. Packaged in single-serving stick packs, the product offers unrivaled convenience and lets you Drink Your Omega-3s™ any time and anywhere. Each serving offers 500 mg of EPA and DHA as well as 1200 I.U. of vitamin D3.

Winner of a 2011 Best of Supplements Award from Better Nutrition magazine, Omega-3 Effervescent has clinically proven faster absorption than soft gels—nearly 25%. The effervescent technology allows omega-3s to enter the blood stream in as little as 15 minutes, an added plus for those with compromised digestion or a weakened ability to absorb nutrients.

Now in stick packs, Omega-3 Effervescent is available in 7 and 21 count boxes and is ideal for both children and adults alike. Omega-3 Effervescent contains cod liver oil made exclusively from wild Arctic cod sustainably sourced from the Norwegian Sea. Sweetened with stevia in creamy orange flavor, the product tastes so great you’ll never know you’re taking fish oil.

To learn more about the benefits of drinking your omega-3s, simply log on to www.drinkyouromegas.com. Plus, four times in the month of November, Nordic Naturals will give away a free 7 count box of Omega-3 Effervescent to the first 50 people that make a request on the page. Like Nordic Naturals on Facebook to learn about the promotional dates!  www.facebook.com/nordicnaturals

Since 1995, Nordic Naturals has been the industry leader in fish oil supplementation, setting standards of excellence in the areas of purity, freshness, taste, and sustainability. With their reputation for efficacy and potency, Nordic Naturals fish oils and EFA blends are regularly chosen for study by independent research institutions and universities. Fifteen published scientific studies have been completed and more than 30 are currently underway. Distributing to over 30 countries on 6 continents, Nordic Naturals offers over 150 products in a variety of flavors, concentrations, and delivery forms. Call 800.662.2544 or visit www.nordicnaturals.com.

Sexy Fit Chef Jennifer Nicole Lee Brings Sexy Back Into the Kitchen & Breaks the Laws of Healthy Cooking with Her Third Book Entitled “The Fun Fit Foodie Cookbook”

New York, NY  (Profitable.com)  Jennifer Nicole Lee is an internationally known wellness guru, motivating millions with her weight loss success story. Now with two bestselling books under her apron, she releases her first cook book “The Fun Fit Foodie”. Jennifer was frustrated by the typical healthy diet cookbooks on the market which promoted boring tasteless “card board” food, which for the most part resembled the same boring dishes, such as boiled chicken and broccoli or oatmeal and eggs. With a passion for all things healthy, JNL set out on a mission to create the most tantalizing gourmet fit foodie cookbook. Her original dishes are full of flavor, exotic spices, and interesting combinations. She is truly breaking the rules of healthy cooking.

The food industry is taking notice. JNL quotes, “We have had major interest from the big name food brands, who are seeking to link their own food brands to the Fun Fit Foodie brand. Being a mom, a wife, and a weight loss success story real every day women can relate to me, and the mega food brands see this. My voice represents the voice the hard working wives, and mothers who want more out of their food and meals for their family and friends.”

JNL’s media production team JNL World Wide Media Productions produced the Fun Fit Foodie TV series, which is also getting many key players in the food and gourmet fields to raise their eyebrows. With 12 complete Fun Fit Foodie Episodes that are all entertaining, enlightening, and also educational without making anyone feel bad about their current food choices, JNL shows the world she is bringing fit and sexy back to the kitchen.

When asked what the future holds for the Fun Fit Foodie brand, Jennifer replies, “We defiantly will branch out into kitchen and cooking appliances. My offices have had several cooking appliance companies approach us and show us current cooking accessories, utensils, and cook ware that make cooking healthier, more fun and easier. If George Forman can do it with the Foreman Grill, the Fun Fit Foodie brand can do it too. We look forward to getting these products into our fellow fun fit foodie’s hands.”

For more info, please visit http://www.TheFunFitFoodie.tv

New Delhi and Seattle  (Profitable.com)  Thirteen million babies are born prematurely every year, but new funding announced today will allow for pioneering research into the causes of preterm births and the development of solutions so they can be prevented.

Today, the Global Alliance to Prevent Prematurity and Stillbirth (GAPPS), an initiative of Seattle Children’s, announced a new Grand Challenges in Global Health program that will seek to discover and develop interventions to prevent preterm birth and stillbirth by limiting infection and improving nutrition. The program, called the Preventing Preterm Birth initiative, is supported by a commitment of US$20 million from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Globally, prematurity is the leading cause of death for newborns, every year taking the lives of one million babies before their first month of life. The Preventing Preterm Birth initiative will mobilize the scientific community to discover the reasons behind prematurity and support research into novel technologies and approaches that provide real-world solutions. The initiative was announced at a joint session of the Annual Grand Challenges Meeting and the Keystone Symposia Conference, in New Delhi, India.

“The objective of the Preventing Preterm Birth initiative is to inspire new scientific research and discover causes of preterm birth that we have never known,” said Craig Rubens, M.D., Ph.D., co-founder and Executive Director of GAPPS. “By uniting the scientific community to combat and prevent prematurity, we have the ability to make an enormous impact on global infant mortality rates.”

Smoking cessation and progesterone therapy are the only interventions proven to reduce preterm birth; two interventions difficult to deploy around the world. The Preventing Preterm Birth initiative aims to uncover at least two new maternal interventions that set prevention measures in motion for the developing and developed world.

“Preterm births claim far too many lives each year, particularly in the world’s poorest countries,” said Gary Darmstadt, Director of Family Health at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. “We urgently need new, groundbreaking ideas that ensure mothers receive the necessary health interventions to help their children have a healthy start to life.”

Under the initiative, GAPPS will solicit ideas from scientists around the world through January 31, 2012. The most promising applications will be selected by a review committee of experts and asked to submit full proposals for further consideration and funding from the pool of resources provided by the Gates Foundation.

“Prematurity and stillbirth are complex global health problems that require an interdisciplinary research approach and an international commitment,” said Alan E. Guttmacher, M.D., Director of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) of the U.S. National Institutes of Health. “NICHD is pleased to see this new initiative that is so closely aligned with the Institute’s goals.  Discovery science, whether funded by the Preventing Preterm Birth initiative, NICHD or other funders, is the foundation of long-term strategies to prevent preterm birth.”

Members of the scientific community can apply to be a sub-grantee at http://www.gapps.org/healthybirth where information on the rules for grants can be found. Applicants will be required to also submit their ideas for catalyzing further investments in prematurity research. A video with Dr. Rubens about the Preterm Birth initiative can be viewed here: http://youtu.be/7k_-wnLIgls

About Grand Challenges in Global Health

Grand Challenges in Global Health is a global partnership first launched by the Gates Foundation and others in 2003 that seeks to engage the world’s most creative minds to work on scientific and technological breakthroughs for the most pressing global health and development challenges.

About Seattle Children’s

Consistently ranked as one of the best children’s hospitals in the country by U.S. News & World Report, Children’s serves as the pediatric and adolescent academic medical referral center for the largest landmass of any children’s hospital in the country (Washington, Alaska, Montana and Idaho). For more than 100 years, Children’s has been delivering superior patient care and advancing new treatments through pediatric research. Children’s serves as the primary teaching, clinical and research site for the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Washington School of Medicine. The hospital works in partnership with Seattle Children’s Research Institute and Seattle Children’s Hospital Foundation. Together they are Seattle Children’s, known for setting new standards in superior patient care for more than 100 years. For more information visithttp://www.seattlechildrens.org.

About GAPPS

The Global Alliance to Prevent Prematurity and Stillbirth (GAPPS), an initiative of Seattle Children’s, leads a collaborative, global effort to increase awareness and accelerate innovative research and interventions that will improve maternal, newborn and child health outcomes around the world.

Media Contacts
Kathy Porada: kathy.porada@seattlechildrens.org, 206.987.7856
Casey Calamusa: casey.calamusa@seattlechildrens.org, 206.884.1014
Megan Sather: megan.sather@gmmb.com, 206.694.0013

Cape Coral, FL  (Profitable.com)  Nature’s Bioceuticals, a wholly owned subsidiary of Mistral Ventures Inc. (MILV.pk) is please to announce the details of the previously mentioned strategic transaction it has been negotiating.  Nature’s was able to enter into a contractual obligation which gives it the rights to purchase an amazing formula for diabetes.  Nature’s has tendered a deposit against formal closing, which is expected in the very near future. At the request of the inventor, to protect his privacy, financial terms are not to be disclosed in press releases.

The global diabetic drug market currently exceeds 25 billion dollars per year. The International Diabetes Federation estimated the global healthcare expenditures to treat and prevent diabetes and its complications are expected to total at least 376 billion dollars for 2010 and account for 11.6% of the total healthcare expenditures in the world.

Robert deZanger, CEO of Nature’s Bioceuticals reiterates his previous statement: “The implications of this natural medicine formula are mind boggling both in terms of the increased quality of life to the people who need it and the potential revenues to the company. There are over 20 different prescription drugs for this condition currently on the market and many of them have multi-billion dollar annual sales. We are anxious to have the formal closing and transfer of the rights as soon as possible so we can file a patent on the formula. We will then immediately start clinical trials to validate the veracity of the initial study. If the new expanded control group responds in a similar manner to the initial result this should be a product that will have far reaching implications and should generate acquisition interest from the major pharmaceutical and natural product companies.”

About Nature’s Bioceuticals

Nature’s Bioceuticals develops and acquires the rights to natural medicine formulas that are geared towards treating specific medical conditions. These medicines are all natural and derived from botanicals and mineral bases. Nature’s Bioceuticals strives to provide high quality natural medicines that are as effective, if not more effective, than synthetic drugs and more importantly do not have the negative side effects usually associated with many of today’s prescribed drugs.

Nature’s line of natural medicines will be either sold as prescription drugs, if applied for by the company and approved by the FDA, or sold as dietary supplements under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994, commonly referred to as “DSHEA.”

In addition to historical information, this release contains forward-looking statements.

Mistral Ventures, Inc. and/or Nature’s Bioceuticals may, from time to time, make written or oral forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements encompass Mistral Ventures, Inc. and/or Nature’s Bioceuticals beliefs, expectations, hopes, or intentions regarding future events. Words such as “expects,” “intends,” “believes,” “anticipates,” “should,” “likely,” and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements included in this release are made as of the date hereof and are based on information available to the Company as of such date. Neither Mistral Ventures, Inc. nor Nature’s Bioceuticals assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statement.  Actual results will vary, and may vary materially, from those anticipated, estimated, projected or expected for a number of reasons, including, among others: further reviews of the Company’s financial statements by the Company and its Audit Committee; modification of the Company’s accounting practices; foreign business risks; industry cyclicality; fluctuations in customer demand and order pattern; changes in pricing and general economic conditions; as well as other risks that may be delineated from time to time or filed with the SEC.

Media Contact:
Financial Insights
Phone Number: 888 656 3509
E-mail: investors@naturesbioceuticals.com
www.naturesbioceuticals.com

(Profitable.com)  Tooth Soap® Liquid has been a steady seller in the market for years but there has been growing customer demand for a Tooth Soap® Liqui-Gel formulation, says Karen Van Cleef, founder and CEO of Tooth Soap, Inc. “For years I wanted a thicker liquid but we weren’t able to perfect it. Finally, we were able to create a thick gel with the desired consistency that I have been dreaming about.”

Tooth Soap® has four different types available to customers with several flavors, but this gel is unique as it offers greater value to the customer. “Tooth Soap® Liqui-Gel is twice as thick as our regular Tooth Soap® Liquid, and is more concentrated so you need less. We expect Tooth Soap® Liqui-Gel will last twice as long as Tooth Soap® Liquid or Tooth Soap® Gel. If the bottle spills, the thicker Liqui-Gel will not pour out, thus saving product,” states Van Cleef.

Tooth Soap® Liqui-Gel is packed a brown amber glass bottle to protect the delicate essential oils and maintain the integrity of the product. “I chose glass this time because some Tooth Soap® customers prefer glass over plastic, even a plastic that is BPA-free,” says Van Cleef.

“Regardless of a person’s preference, Tooth Soap® Liqui-Gel, along with Tooth Soap® Liquid, Tooth Soap® Whip, Tooth Soap® Gel and Tooth Soap® shreds, continue to provide consumers with an all natural, organic alternative to toothpaste,” says Van Cleef. “Slowly but surely, the understanding that toothpaste is not the optimal way to brush your teeth and gums is growing!”

About Tooth Soap, Inc.

Tooth Soap, Inc. is an emerging specialty oral care products company focused on the development of a portfolio of natural and non-toxic oral care products for consumers. For further information about Tooth Soap, Inc., please visit our website at http://www.ToothSoap.com

Pittsburgh, PA  (Profitable.com)  When choosing to use a service, especially one that is vital to health and wellness throughout the years, any savvy consumer does their research.(i) From cost to benefits to customer service, they weigh the pros and cons until finally reaching a decision. At that point, it falls into the hands of professionals behind the scenes who work hard to keep each patient completely satisfied.

In all the tireless research and comparison, it is easy to forget about the vast team that comes together to deliver a quality product. In any operation there are countless individuals playing their part. If this team does not achieve their goals using select tools for success, the final result suffers. These tools are an asset that Automated Security Alert utilizes to build every aspect of their services.

Communication is Key

Even the most basic communication skills can have the power to take a team to the top or bring them crashing down. Internal transmission between co-workers and superiors reduces mistakes, raises accountability and eventually leads to increased morale for everyone. This extends to the outside as well. Without proper communication to vendors, customers and the public, a team cannot expect to serve their general purpose or reach their goals.

Vulnerability

In order to achieve a healthy team, each member needs to figuratively undress in front of each other. This deep revelation builds trust and improves confidence.

Sense of Urgency

One of the most contagious attributes of a thriving workplace is strong determination. With the desire to constantly stay on their toes, a team will relentlessly stay ahead of the competition. With this work ethic running through each and every person, the results are limitless.

Look, Aim, Shoot

Whereas a sense of urgency is a necessity, it is also important not to let it affect the decision making process. Staying up to date with the latest market trends, laws and headlines allows for a faster draw. When the team has current information, it leads to less guessing and detailed research.

Up to Date

A workplace cannot make the mistake of solely keeping up with the latest trends in their own space. Instead, one must dig deeper into the issues affecting the entire world. It is imperative to take the headlines and gain multiple perspectives on the subject to stay on top of all information. This not only improves a team’s knowledge but also productivity and conviction.

The Follow Up and Follow Through

As a team progresses, it is vital to remember the follow up and follow through. With a busy and productive atmosphere, it is easy to get lazy and uninterested in things not included on the immediate task plan. Ignoring these important building blocks can lead to a damaged organization, customer experience and overall culture. Sometimes we need to wake up and intentionally build ourselves to a state of excitement. This improves focus, determination and strength to get the job done.

Attention to Detail

“Didn’t you see that?” Making sure the entire team has a constant focus on the details is everyone’s business. One of the most important communications is constructive criticism to peers when a member is missing the little things. If a team is vulnerable enough to follow through with each other, the details will work themselves out.

These tools are just a few of the methods ASA has implemented to improve their team’s performance every day. The constant goal to improve and excel in these areas builds an overall quality team experience that translates into improved patient outcomes, exceptional customer service and satisfaction.

About Automated Security Alert: ASA has been a local provider of personal emergency response and medication dispensers since 1988. With offices in Philadelphia, Cleveland and their main headquarters in Pittsburgh, ASA’s trained operators provide in-home safety throughout the region with medical alert, fall detection and medication management systems. Through use of the array of available products, patients can increase their time at home by an average of six years. For more information on maintaining an independent lifestyle, visit http://www.automatedsecurityalert.com.

Contact:
Jason Seyler
Phone: (800) 338-7114
Director of Life Safety

(i)Automated Security Alert workplace research: January 2011 – June 2011
(i)ibid

Hoffman Estates, IL  (Profitable.com)  With flu season underway, Kmart is providing seasonal flu vaccinations in its walk-in flu clinics for customers’ convenience, at the value price of $24.99, while supplies last. Vaccinations are now available at any of the more than 900 Kmart Pharmacies nationwide, on a walk-in basis at most locations. Additionally, members of Kmart Pharmacy’s Prescription Savings Club will pay just $20 for the flu shot. Kmart Pharmacy also offers the high-dose flu shot (indicated for those age 65 and over). Many prescription insurance programs cover flu shots, including Medicare Part B and D.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) flu activity usually peaks in January or February, but the flu itself is unpredictable(1). Flu vaccines change yearly to protect against the three viruses that research suggests will be most common during flu season; additionally, the CDC reports that everyone needs an annual vaccination for optimal protection since a person’s immune protection from vaccination declines over time.

“Kmart Pharmacy is aligned with the CDC’s position on preventive care, and we are well positioned to deliver the services that promote the health and wellness of patients in the communities we serve,” said Ghassan Hourani, vice president and general merchandise manager of Kmart Pharmacy. “At Kmart Pharmacy, our pharmacists will take the time to discuss with our patients the importance of being vaccinated as well as practicing good health habits.”

While everyone can benefit from a flu shot, it is especially important for those at higher risk for developing complications from the flu—young children, pregnant women and older adults. In 2012, Kmart Pharmacy will have available at each location nationwide an immunizing pharmacist who is certified by the American Pharmacists Association and authorized by the applicable State Board of Pharmacy to administer vaccines to customers age three and older where permitted by law.

The flu virus is most commonly transferred through sneezing or coughing, but a person can also become infected by coming into contact with a surface that has the flu virus on it and then touching his or her mouth or nose. Kmart pharmacists can provide guidelines for patients on how best to avoid illness during the cold and flu season, in addition to ensuring the most up-to-date flu vaccination.

Kmart pharmacists are available to answer any questions customers may have about the flu vaccine. For more information on vaccinations or Kmart Pharmacy’s Prescription Savings Club, or to find a Kmart Pharmacy near you, call 1-800-822-8345 or visit www.Kmart.com/pharmacy.

About Kmart

Kmart, a wholly owned subsidiary of Sears Holdings Corporation (NASDAQ: SHLD), is a mass merchandising company that offers customers quality products through a portfolio of exclusive brands that includes Jaclyn Smith, Joe Boxer, County Living, Route 66 and Smart Sense. For more information visit the company’s website at www.kmart.com or the Sears Holdings Corporation website at www.searsholdings.com.

(1) http://www.cdc.gov/Features/FLU/

Charlotte, NC  (Profitable.com)  Informed Therapy Resources (ITR) is pleased to announce that they have sold over 1,000 Turnaround: Turning Fear Into Freedom programs all over the world!

ITR was formed in April of 2008 with the goal of creating a professional, child-friendly treatment program that would help anxious children overcome their fear. The co-creators, Dr. David Russ and Christopher McCarthy thought it would take them six-months to create and manufacture the program. Boy were they wrong! To do it right, they had to devote significant time and financial resources to the project. After two-years of intense labor, they presented Turnaround to the world in April of 2010. On a shoestring marketing budget, they got the word out and kits began to sell, slowly at first but increasing sales month after month. Testimonies began pouring in from parents thrilled with the results. Their anxious children, trapped in the bondage of fear and worry, were set free!

Turnaround is truly a unique program. There’s nothing else like it available today. It is professionally developed by two licensed therapist with over 30-years of experience between them, and very child-friendly. The talents of 14 child actors and 6 adult actors were utilized to create a program that kids would want to listen to. The anxious children are entertained while be educated about what anxiety is and how to overcome it. Sales increase each month and the word spreads about this effective treatment method for anxious children.

Turnaround Audio Program includes:
Turnaround Program for kids (10 CDs)
Turnaround Journal, a 74 page workbook for kids
Chill Kit, relaxation guide for kids (1 CD)

Parent Guide, packed full of helpful information and techniques to help parents (2 CDs)
A bonus CD titled Med FAQs is also included. Med FAQs is an interview with nationally recognized Neuropsychiatrist, Dr. James Lee, offering a comprehensive discussion on the medications used to treat child anxiety is also included.

For additional information on the news that is the subject of this release or for a demo, contact us at info(at)myanxiouschild(dot)com or call ITR at (704) 208-4304 or (704) 293-2994 Please visit http://www.myanxiouschild.com to learn more about Turnaround: Turning Fear Into Freedom.

About Informed Therapy Resources (ITR)

Informed Therapy Resources (ITR) is dedicated to creating mental health treatment programs that are scientifically based, proven clinically effective, and professionally developed- using creative, eye-catching audio visual materials

David Russ, PhD, Psychologist

Dr. David A. Russ is President and a Licensed Practicing Psychologist of Carolinas Counseling Group in Charlotte, NC. He and his partners have built a busy practice with 11 clinicians. His doctoral dissertation was original research about a novel treatment for anxiety. He is co-author of the book, “More Than Me,” published by NavPress. Dr. Russ has been an adjunct or visiting professor for four different graduate counseling programs. He has been continuously providing care for over 20 years. He has been happily married since 1983

Christopher T. McCarthy, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor

Christopher McCarthy, MEd, is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in treating child anxiety disorders, teen behavioral issues, parent-child relationship issues, and couple conflict. He co-owns Informed Therapy Resources and co-created Turnaround: Turning Fear Into Freedom™, a professional and creative audio program designed to help kids get free from anxiety and fear (myanxiouschild.com). He has 3 Masters Degrees and is finishing a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision. He gives lectures on parenting and improving couple relationships. He has been in private practice since 1998 and is married with 3 children.

Contact:
Informed Therapy Resources (ITR)
e-mail: info(at)myanxiouschild(dot)com

http://www.myanxiouschild.com

Chicago, IL  (Profitable.com)  The results of a recent study by the University of Maryland indicate that individuals should not give up eating nutritious foods as they age. This is a fact not lost among the executive chefs who oversee menu planning and meal preparation for residents living at a Vi continuing care retirement community.

Vi chefs have received customized training by the Culinary Institute of America on nutrition, healthy cooking and baking techniques, flavor dynamics and food and wine pairing. And, because Vi offers menu selections that are generally lower in sodium, fat and sugar – yet high in flavor – the cuisine satisfies body and palate, enabling residents to eat well and always dine in style.

The 10-year study conducted by the University of Maryland examined the eating habits of approximately 2,500 test subjects between the ages of 70 and 79. The study suggests that older adults in their 70’s who eat healthy foods increase their longevity.

Eating well in older age does not mean having to compromise a fine dining experience, according to the Vi executive chefs.

“We focus on texture, flavor and digestive health needs,” said Jeffrey Weston, executive chef at Vi at Silverstone in Scottsdale, AZ. “Simply put, my culinary philosophy is fresh, quality ingredients prepared well.”

Anthony Santomauro, executive chef at Vi at Lakeside Village in Lantana, FL, says when he cooks fish, he always make sure it’s the freshest fish that is available: flounder, grouper, yellowtail snapper, ahi tuna or U8 scallops. “When it comes to creative cooking, I have always been inspired by fresh fish,” he said.

Also found in Florida is Vi at Aventura, where executive chef Robert Ibgui said a Thursday evening chef’s menu gives him a chance to provide the residents a gourmet experience. “I use as many seasonal products as I can and I also get ideas from the residents,” he said.

Shep Drinkwater is executive chef at Vi at the Glen in the northern Chicago suburb of Glenview. “We keep our menus fresh by changing specials daily and changing everything else we can as much as possible while always offering a quality product,” he said.

“Our residents enjoy the comfort foods,” said Vince De Mar, executive chef at Vi at Grayhawk, also in Scottsdale. “However, many of them desire a greater variety in their diets and enjoy stepping outside the box on occasion. I get great enjoyment when I’m able to display my passion and creativity through my food.”

Jim Smith, executive chef a Vi at La Jolla Village in San Diego, CA., said older adults may have aging palates, but they still enjoy different things and variety when it comes to their dining experience. “Fresh ingredients and top quality beginnings will yield great results on the plate,” he said. “I also instill quality in my sous chefs and cooks. If it doesn’t look right, don’t serve it.”

At Vi, menus offer a wide variety of options to suit residents’ tastes and preferences, including regional favorites, traditional home-style meals and new recipes. Each community features stylish dining venues and elegant private dining rooms are perfect for parties and special occasions.

Vi, formerly Classic Residence by Hyatt, was founded in 1987 as a developer, owner and operator of older adult living communities. The company is dedicated to enriching the lives of older adults by providing high quality environments, services and care. Vi currently operates ten continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) and nine rental communities under a family of brands nationwide. For more information about Vi communities, visit http://www.ViLiving.com.

International Dairy Federation’s Innovation Awards, Parma Italy Judged 100 entries from 25 Countries in 14 Categories

XAPP The World’s First Carbonated Protein Fitness Drink Named as Finalist in the 2011 IDF Dairy Innovation Awards

Parma Italy  (Profitable.com)  Household name dairy companies from around the globe highlighted their offerings as they competed for the prestigious title of winner in 14 unique categories during the International Dairy Federation’s (IDF) Dairy Innovation Awards.  Judged by a panel of heralded industry judges, Carlsbad, California’s NEXT Proteins, Inc. stood up to the competition as its revolutionary new XAPP® Protein Fitness Drink was named as a finalist in the “Best New Ingredient for Dairy Foods or Beverages” category.

The world is set for a decade-long boom in milk consumption with the demand for liquid dairy products set to surge by around 30% from 2010 to 2020.¹ The IDF Dairy Innovation Awards showcase the performance and potential of the global dairy industry in producing sustainable, innovative, safe and nutritious products. The IDF Dairy Innovation Awards are an annual opportunity for the dairy industry to stay up to date with the latest knowledge, best practices and breakthrough innovations like XAPP, from NEXT Proteins.

“XAPP Protein Fitness Drinks are totally on trend with almost no carbohydrates, no fat and only 100 calories [from 25g protein].  The taste impressed the panel too with the light carbonation giving an instant sense of being refreshed” noted Bill Bruce, Group Editorial Director for FoodBev Media, Ltd. “The panel was impressed by the unique patented formula creatively and successfully combining aqueous whey isolate protein into a drink which creates a real cross-over product into the carbonated energy and recovery drink category,”  Bruce continued, “Additionally, we were impressed with the bold packaging and very clear labeling and messaging. Overall, the successful combination of ingredients and taste ensured XAPP as an obvious finalist in their category.”

“We are extremely honored to have XAPP recognized as a finalist for the International Dairy Federation’s 2011 Dairy Innovation Awards,” commented David Jenkins, Founder and CEO of NEXT Proteins, Inc.  “This recognition is the culmination of more than nine and one half years of research, testing and development work by the NEXT Proteins’ team.”

XAPP, the world’s first carbonated high protein, is packed with essential electrolytes and the highest quality whey protein isolate which makes XAPP perhaps the perfect beverage before and after workouts.  XAPP is great for weight loss as it can help curb hunger between meals.   Manufactured under numerous patents both in the U.S. and internationally,  XAPP delivers a quick, easy way to REFRESH, REFUEL, REPAIR and RECOVER like no other drink ever.

About the International Dairy Federation (IDF)

IDF is the pre-eminent source of scientific and technical expertise for all stakeholders in the dairy chain. IDF is represented in 56 countries and membership is growing: IDF accounts for approximately 86% of the world’s milk production at present. IDF aims to identify, elaborate and disseminate best practice at international level in order to guide the dairy sector and to harmonize members’ work on a variety of issues along the dairy production chain including animal health and welfare, protection of the environment, nutrition, food safety and hygiene and food standards.

About Dairy Innovation Magazine:

First published in 2005, Dairy Innovation is the only bi-monthly magazine to focus on product innovation in every sector of the international dairy industry. Published by UK based FoodBev Media, Dairy Innovation is read by over 15,000 decision makers in over 40 countries. For more information, visit www.foodbev.com.

About NEXT Proteins, Inc.

Founded in 1988, NEXT Proteins, Inc. has been the driving force behind innovative protein brands including nutrition bars, beverages, and powders, that help consumers live healthier lives.   In 1993, NEXT Proteins pioneered the development of one of the industry’s best selling protein powders, DESIGNER WHEY®, and ten years later launched the blockbuster DETOUR® protein bars.

As early as 2002, NEXT Proteins was creating the world’s first carbonated high protein drinks.  Today with six issued patents in the U.S. and multiple patents issued or pending in all the major beverage markets around the world, NEXT Proteins is rolling out XAPP Protein Fitness Drinks.   www.XAPP.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Don Williams
Williams Group Public Relations
(760) 201-8961 direct
(760) 707-4589 mobile
don@williamsgrouppr.com
WilliamsGroupPR.com

¹ Source: “Tetra Pak Dairy Index” Issue 4-July 2011.

San Francisco, CA  (Profitable.com)  Invuity, a leading developer of state-of-the-art illuminated surgical technology, has introduced its illuminated breast retractor system at the American College of Surgeons’ 97th Annual Clinical Congress inSan Francisco.

Designed specifically for breast mastectomies, lumpectomies, sentinel node biopsies and reconstruction procedures, the system integrates the company’s proprietary Eigr™ (pronounced eye-gr) illumination technology into an optimized retractor to enable surgeons to improve visualization of anatomic structures during these procedures. The system includes a family of different retractors designed for various surgical approaches, including reconstructive surgeries.

According to the American Cancer Society, more than 2.5 million women in the United States are breast cancer survivors; many chose surgery to remove the cancer. Operating in the breast provides unique challenges for specialists, especially in less invasive surgeries. As breast cancer surgery incisions become smaller, Invuity’s illuminated breast retractor system helps surgeons to better visualize delicate structures. Surgeons can use the Invuity breast retractor system whether they are working on a lumpectomy or a mastectomy to enhance visualization and bring illumination inside the incision. The ability to see is critical, particularly in skin and nipple-sparing mastectomies.

“As a breast cancer surgeon for more than 30 years, I have closely followed the advances in surgical techniques with respect to breast conservation surgery,” said Dr. Stephen DeSantis, chairman, department of surgery, Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo, Calif. ”Invuity’s Eigr technology enables me to perform advanced breast procedures with remarkable visualization. This is truly an enabling technology that will be greatly appreciated by dedicated breast surgeons and plastic surgeons.”

Eigr technology utilizes unique optical structures to control light output to a targeted operative space. By directing light from multiple angles and efficiently managing light across a broad output surface, Eigr virtually eliminates shadows, back reflection, glare and thermal effects such as overheating. Invuity’s Eigr breast retractor system is also ergonomically designed so that surgeons have greater comfort and maneuverability.

“Invuity’s Eigr breast retractor system is the result of close collaboration with breast cancer surgeons to understand their need to visualize structures better during less invasive procedures,” said Philip Sawyer, chief executive officer of Invuity. “As a result, Invuity provides critical tools to aid in these procedures.”

Last year, Invuity closed $15.6 million in Series C funding designed to support the commercial launch of multiple new product introductions and general operating expenses. The funding was led by InterWest Partners and current investor Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers also participated.

Invuity works closely with surgeons from leading institutions to determine which surgical procedures can best benefit from improved visualization. The result of this collaborative approach to product development is a suite of products that integrate Eigr technology and address procedures in a variety of surgical specialties including spine, orthopedics, head and neck and oncology.

About Invuity

Invuity develops medical devices to dramatically improve visualization in less invasive surgeries where it is difficult to see. The company’s products incorporate its proprietary Eigr illumination technology into advanced access systems for a variety of surgical specialties. Invuity has received funding from InterWest Partners and Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers. The company is headquartered in San Francisco. For more information, visit www.invuity.com

Invuity is a registered trademark and Eigr is a trademark of Invuity, Inc.

New JNL Fusion Workout Challenge Recently Released by Sexy & Fit Jennifer Nicole Lee Entitled "I Dare You"

Miami, FL  (Profitable.com)  Jennifer Nicole Lee has recently released her latest JNL Fusion workout challenge called the “I Dare You” exercise routine. In her workout video, she dares all to be their best, live out their dreams, push themselves physically and mentally, and to never give up. This latest “I Dare You” JNL Fusion workout challenge is the last content of many that JNL has released via her youtube channel at http://www.JNLYouTube.com.

By way of background, Jennifer Nicole Lee is the creator behind the revolutionary workout method called JNL Fusion. JNL designed this specialized workout program to help not only her celebrity clients get maximum results in minimum time, but also to help her keep and stay in shape. JNL Fusion is possibly superior to other workout methods in many ways. Time efficiency, keeping the body guessing, total body toning, and athletic conditioning are listed as some benefits to this practice. JNL Fusion is not a fad, but a fierce fitness revolution, sweeping the world one country at a time.

To date, this exclusive method is only available by Jennifer Nicole Lee herself, and also her 25 JNL FUSION Master Trainers, which she certified one by one. This method is so in demand, that JNL recently signed a huge mega production deal, where she filmed all of her Fusion workouts, putting them into a complete 12 exercise DVD set, soon available for purchase at http://www.JNLFUSION.com.

The 2nd Annual JNL FUSION World Conference will be held on a private resort on Miami’s South Beach on January 13-16, 2011. Applications are pouring in, but only a hand full will be selected, as JNL states “I will be extremely careful in selecting the future trainers of my JNL FUSION method. I am looking for the best leaders, coaches, fitness professionals who are just as passionate about JNL FUSION as I am. They need to be dedicated JNL FUSION Ambassadors, who will take the method back to their country and certify the next generations after us. It truly is a movement and history in the making.”

As it’s apparent in her latest video workout, JNL is extremely adamant about motivating the masses, as she dares all to take her workout challenge, and to live the life that they love through fitness. For more, visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i32haaUvzsU.

Santa Barbara, CA  (Profitable.com)  As the overweight and obesity rates in America continue to rise, FindTheBest has developed a Fast Food Nutrition comparison to help consumers make more informed decisions when it comes to their health.

Americans love fast food.  A reported 25 percent of American adults consume fast food each day—whether it’s a large order of McDonald’s French fries, weighing in at 500 calories, or Taco Bell’s Volcano Nachos, which comes loaded with 1,000 calories.  It’s no surprise that an estimated 68 percent of American children and adults are overweight or obese.

The issue has become so important that First Lady Michelle Obama has launched the Let’s Move campaign to get childhood obesity under control.  But while part of the problem is a lack of self-control, a large part of the problem is a lack of information.  Educating consumers about what they are eating is an important step to containing the obesity epidemic.

FindTheBest’s Fast Food Nutrition comparison allows users to sort and filter their favorite fast food items and popular restaurant chains—from KFC to El Pollo Loco—by menu item, number of calories, serving size, total fat, carbohydrates, sodium, sugar, protein and more.

For those not willing to give up fast food, the Fast Food Nutrition comparison helps users compare healthier alternatives.  Substituting Del Taco’s Jalepeno Rings for the Habit Burger’s onion rings can drop 240 calories.  Swapping a Hardee’s 2/3 LB Monster Thickburger with a McDonald’s Quarter Pounder sheds 910 calories.

Next time you walk into a Burger King and the smell of freshly made French fries wafts past your nose, or you’re in line at Subway and can’t decide between the Subway Footlong Sweet Onion Chicken Teriyaki Sandwich and the 6-inch BLT, check in with FindTheBest’s Fast Food Nutrition Comparison to compare the nutritional information before making a decision.

New York, NY  (Profitable.com)   The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research has announced that it is partnering with The Kinetics Foundation to measure the impact of an innovative computer-based device, called the Objective Parkinson’s Disease Measurement System (OPDM), and how it might help to better measure specific motor characteristics of Parkinson’s disease (PD).

The joint venture is being added to MJFF’s Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI), a landmark five-year clinical study aiming to identify biomarkers of PD progression, one of MJFF’s highest priorities.  A biomarker is a measurable physical trait that is associated with the risk or presence of a disease, or that changes over time in a way that can be linked to the progression of a disease. This type of marker is critically needed for the success of clinical trials, particularly those searching for potential disease-modifying treatments.

“The primary goal of PPMI is to identify biomarkers that track Parkinson’s disease progression,” said Ken Marek, M.D., PPMI’s principal investigator, and the president and senior scientist at the Institute for Neurodegenerative Disorders in New Haven, Connecticut. “Currently, PPMI study subjects are undergoing tests focused on clinical symptoms, brain imaging and biological samples.  The OPDM device will now provide an additional strategy to measure motor function and may be a simple and efficient way to measure PD progression that can be used at home rather than in the clinic.”

Today, the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale is considered the gold standard for measuring PD progression. But because it relies on subjective clinical opinion, it is not truly quantitative. The OPDM device tests dexterity through finger-tapping and peg transfer exercises that gauge speed and reaction time.  By doing so, it is designed to objectively and more accurately measure PD severity by detecting changes in motor function. This could shorten the time needed to perform assessments in clinical trials, reducing costs.

“Throughout the course of our relationship with The Kinetics Foundation, we have worked together to bring innovative research to the fore, collaborating on diverse projects including neurotrophic therapies and improving brain drug delivery in Parkinson’s,” said Todd Sherer, Ph.D., CEO, MJFF.  ”This is the latest project in a partnership that we hope will speed progress toward better treatments for PD.”

“MJFF has been a leading force in the search for new PD treatments and cures, their PPMI project may be their most important effort to date,” said Ken Kubota, program director of the Kinetics Foundation.  ”Finding a biomarker for PD might allow for earlier and more accurate diagnosis, as well as measurement of disease progression and treatment efficacy.  We are excited to be part of this valuable work.”

This study will be offered at three PPMI sites: the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the Institute for Neurodegenerative Disorders in New Haven, Connecticut, and the Oregon Health & Science University in Portland, Oregon.  PPMI is recruiting newly diagnosed people with Parkinson’s as well as controls at 21 study sites throughout the United Statesand Europe.  To find out more about how you can help, visit http://www.michaeljfox.org/living_ppmi.cfm.

About The Kinetics Foundation

The Kinetics Foundation is a privately endowed medical foundation with the mission to accelerate the development of new treatments for disease through the support of bioengineering and biomarkers.

About The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research

As the world’s largest private funder of Parkinson’s research, The Michael J. Fox Foundation is dedicated to accelerating a cure for Parkinson’s disease and improved therapies for those living with the condition today. The Foundation pursues its goals through an aggressively funded, highly targeted research program coupled with active global engagement of scientists, Parkinson’s patients, business leaders, clinical trial participants, donors and volunteers.  In addition to funding more than $264 million in research to date, the Foundation has fundamentally altered the trajectory of progress toward a cure. Operating at the hub of worldwide Parkinson’s research, the Foundation forges groundbreaking collaborations with industry leaders, academic scientists and government research funders; increases the flow of participants into Parkinson’s disease clinical trials with its online tool, Fox Trial Finder; promotes Parkinson’s awareness through high-profile advocacy, events and outreach; and coordinates the grassroots involvement of thousands of Team Fox members around the world. Now through December 31, 2012, all new, returning and increased giving to The Michael J. Fox Foundation will be matched on a dollar-for-dollar basis with the $50-million Brin Wojcicki Challenge, launched by Sergey Brin and Anne Wojcicki.

For more information, visit: www.michaeljfox.org; www.facebook.com/michaeljfoxfoundation.

Hilton Head, SC  (Profitable.com)  Do you take fainting to heart? The majority of Americans don’t. Although fainting affects an estimated one million people in the United States each year, (1) a national survey released today by the patient advocacy group STARS (Syncope Trust and Reflex Anoxic Seizures) and supported by Medtronic Inc., shows that one in two Americans are unaware that fainting could be a warning sign for a serious, potentially life-threatening heart condition. Most Americans rank dehydration, exhaustion and stress as the leading causes of fainting. But, in many cases fainting is the only sign of an abnormal heart rhythm, which is a leading cause of sudden cardiac arrest – a devastating condition that kills more than 250,000 people each year.(2)

In an effort to educate people about fainting and its link to heart health, STARS and Medtronic collaborated to launch the Take Fainting to Heart campaign to encourage people to take fainting seriously and urge those who have fainted to talk with a doctor to investigate the cause of their fainting episodes.

“STARS is proud to participate in this innovative educational campaign to spotlight the seriousness of fainting and its real health impact,” said Trudie Lobban, MBE, Founder and CEO of STARS. “As part of our outreach, new information and interactive resources are available at www.STARS-US.org to help people take fainting to heart. Download The Fainting Checklist to help you and your doctor work towards a correct diagnosis.”

Fainting, medically referred to as syncope, is a sudden, temporary loss of consciousness that occurs when there is a lack of blood supply to the brain. It accounts for one to six percent of hospital admissions(3) and approximately one percent of visits to the emergency room per year.(3-5) While most causes of fainting are harmless, others may be life threatening if they are caused by an underlying heart rhythm disorder.

According to the survey, even though a majority of Americans (76 percent) have fainted themselves or know someone who has fainted, only 36 percent believe that the issue deserves immediate medical attention.(6) Given this, it is no surprise that many people don’t have the faintest idea of what caused them to pass out:

• One-third of Americans did nothing after they fainted
• Less than half reported talking to a physician
• Less than a quarter underwent any kind of medical testing

“Fainting could be a symptom of a more serious issue, and should not be taken lightly,” said Dr. Nicholas Tullo, Cardiac-Electrophysiologist at Consultants in Cardiology in West Orange, New Jersey. “Getting to the root cause of an individual’s fainting is the first and most important step in ruling out a serious, potentially life-threatening heart condition. Certain advanced diagnostic tests, such as insertable cardiac monitors, can quickly determine whether a person’s fainting is due to an underlying heart condition and provide physicians with pertinent information needed to treat the problem.”

To ensure a proper diagnosis and treatment, Take Fainting to Heart aims to empower people who have experienced a fainting episode to take the following steps and find out why:

• Discuss your fainting with a doctor and provide an accurate history of your previous episodes.
• Ask if you should see a heart rhythm specialist, such as a cardiologist or electrophysiologist, for further diagnostic testing. A heart rhythm specialist may prescribe an insertable cardiac monitor (ICM), which records the heart’s activity over long periods of time to help determine whether the fainting is caused by an abnormal heart rhythm.
  • According to a recent study, patients who had fainted were evaluated by an average of three different specialists and underwent an average of 13 tests without providing a conclusive diagnosis. These findings suggest that an ICM implanted earlier in the evaluation process could result in a more efficient diagnosis.(7)

Forrest Finch, a paramedic in Alton, Ill., experienced a fainting episode while driving an ambulance, which resulted in an accident. “My doctor suspected that the fainting was related to a heart issue and his suspicion was quickly confirmed by an ICM. After being diagnosed, I was placed on a treatment plan that has kept my heart rhythm in check ever since.”

For more information on Take Fainting to Heart, visit www.STARS-US.org to access information and interactive tools, gain insight from medical experts and hear compelling stories about people’s personal experiences with fainting.

About Take Fainting to Heart

Take Fainting to Heart aims to educate Americans about the important link between fainting and heart health. The campaign encourages people who have fainted to visit their doctor to determine if it is caused by an underlying, serious health problem. A number of educational resources are available at www.STARS-US.org, including an “ask-the-expert” feature, a downloadable checklist to take to a doctor’s visit and compelling stories of how patients took control of their fainting.  Similar educational tools, along with additional information about fainting and its link to heart health are also available at www.Fainting.com.

About the Survey  

These results are based on a survey conducted by Kelton Research in September 2011. A total of 1,082 people responded to the survey. Quotas are set to ensure reliable and accurate representation of the total U.S. population ages 18 and over.

About STARS

STARS (www.STARS-US.org) is the leading non-profit organization providing information and support individuals, families and medical professionals on syncope.  STARS provides information and support from diagnosis through to treatment and long term management of syncope for all age groups.

(1) http://www.hrsonline.org/patientinfo/symptomsdiagnosis/fainting/

(2) http://www.sca-aware.org/about-sca

(3) Kappor W.N. Am J Med. 1991 : 90 ; 91-106

(4) Brignole M, et al. Europace. 2003 ; 5 :293-298.

(5) Blanc J-J, et al. Eur Heart J. 2002 ;23 :815-820.

(6) Take Fainting to Heart Survey, Kelton Research. September 2011.

(7) Edvardsson, N, et al. Use of an implantable loop recorder to increase the diagnostic yield in unexplained syncope: results from the PICTURE registry. EP Europace. 2011; 13(2): 262-269 (first published online on Nov. 19, 2010)

Kansas City, MO  (Profitable.com)  According to a new study from researchers at Children’s Mercy Hospitals and Clinics in Kansas City, Mo., fewer treatments are just as effective as standard of care for children suffering from burns. The research was presented at the American Academy of Pediatrics National Conference and Exhibition in Boston.

“Given the risk of infection, dressings for burn patients need to be changed once or twice a day. The experience can be traumatic, especially for a young child,” said Daniel Ostlie, M.D., director, Surgical Critical Care at Children’s Mercy and lead investigator of the study. “If we can reduce this trauma just the slightest bit by eliminating one of the topical applications – with no major implications for outcome – we can make a significant improvement in the patient recovery experience.”

In the prospective randomized study, researchers compared the effectiveness of two burn therapies commonly used to facilitate the healing process: topical silver sulfadiazine, an antimicrobial treatment, and collagenase ointment, an enzyme therapy. While silver sulfadiazine is frequently used for its anti-bacterial properties, collagenase ointment is believed to shorten the healing time of burn wounds.

“For all of our burn patients, we want to avoid more invasive treatment, such as skin grafting, because they add another layer of distress for the patient and the family,” said Janine Pettiford, M.D., surgical scholar in the Department of Surgery at Children’s Mercy and an author of the study. “Non-invasive topical therapies have proven effectiveness but no studies have demonstrated if one treatment is more effective than another in reducing the odds that the patient would need a skin graft.”

Using a consistent intervention approach for both therapies, researchers found there was no difference in the need for skin grafting between the two therapies. Additionally, the cost differential associated with both therapies was insignificant.

About Children’s Mercy Hospitals and Clinics

Children’s Mercy Hospitals and Clinics, located in Kansas City, Mo., is one of the nation’s top pediatric medical centers. The 314-bed hospital provides care for children from birth through the age of 18, and has been recognized by the American Nurses Credentialing Center with Magnet designation for excellence in nursing services, and ranked by U.S. News & World Report as one of “America’s Best Children’s Hospitals” in all 10 specialties they rank. Our faculty of 600 pediatricians and researchers across more than 40 subspecialties are actively involved in clinical care, pediatric research and educating the next generation of pediatric subspecialists. For more information about Children’s Mercy and its research, visit childrensmercy.org or download our mobile phone app CMH4YOU for all phone types. For breaking news and videos, follow us on Twitter, YouTube and Facebook.

Jessica Salazar
Phone: (816) 346-1346
E-mail: jmsalazar@cmh.edu

Carin Ganz
Phone: (212) 373-6002
E-mail: cganz@golinharris.com

Boulder, CO  (Profitable.com)  The 26th annual Club Industry Conference and Tradeshow, the premier independent fitness industry event, drew over 4,000 attendees and included 365 booths at Chicago’s McCormick Place, October 12 – 14, 2011.  This show delivered upon its promise to showcase the ‘next big thing in fitness’.  Buyers from every type of fitness facility, personal trainers and the industry elite discovered cutting-edge cardio and weight equipment, new digital fitness technologies and in-demand nutrition products.

Industry professionals in attendance had glowing remarks.  ”Club Industry drew me back this year with their new CEO Summit, custom show floor tour and buyers club,” said Jeff Skeen CEO of Titan Fitness.  ”The marketing and branding session was amazing and generated so many ideas for our gyms. I am eager to start implementing them,” said Carrie Speicher of the Chicago Athletic Club.

“This year’s Club Industry show was full of renewed energy,” said Pamela Kufahl, editor of Club Industry magazine. “We welcomed over 40 executives to the CEO Summit and implemented several new events to create energy and facilitate networking, including the opening night reception and Club LIVE event area. Next year’s show is already being planned with several exciting changes and additions to unveil.”

Chris Powell, transformation specialist from ABC’s “Extreme Makeover Weight Loss Edition,” and John Moore, marketing mastermind from Starbucks and Whole Foods Market, delivered keynote addresses on the business behind wellness and the role fitness plays in the overall health of America.

Red Lerille, owner of Red’s Health and Racquet Club in Lafayette, LA for over 50 years, was recognized with the Club Industry Lifetime Achievement Award for his unwavering dedication to innovation in his facility and for his members.

Life Fitness and the American Council on Exercise recognized Nicole Nichols as America’s top Personal Trainer to Watch. Nichols designs and implements prenatal and senior exercise programs and addresses eating disorders, body image, self-acceptance and strength training for women.

Join us for Club Industry 2012, October 10-12 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Club Industry Show, produced by Penton Media Inc. is the premier annual independent fitness industry event focusing on for-profit and not-for-profit facilities.  The combination of unmatched professional development, strategic business solutions and industry networking make Club Industry a must attend event for the fitness business professional.

Contact: Heather Smith
Club Industry Tradeshow
Penton Media Inc.
p. 303. 998. 9232
e. hsmith@newhope.com

Fort Washington, PA  (Profitable.com)  Nutrisystem , Inc. (NASDAQ: NTRI), the leading home delivery weight loss program, and GlucoFitClub, a leading provider of exercise, fitness and electronic health monitoring services located within participating YMCA’s, have announced the start of the NutriFitProgram™, a more effective and integrated program for people to achieve their weight and fitness goals. Participation in this program can help people avoid the health complications associated with excess weight, an improper diet and lack of regular exercise. In addition, the program is specifically intended to help people with diabetes better manage the disease, as well as help to prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes for those with prediabetes.

The NutriFitProgram combines all the essentials needed to help achieve efficient and healthy weight loss. This Program includes a member’s choice of a 28-day personalized Nutrisystem Plan which includes 28 days of meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert) that are portion controlled and easy to prepare, community membership, online and mobile tools and weight loss counseling. Personalized exercise programs are arranged from approximately 90 weekly classes at participating YMCA’s including 36-minute entry-level circuit training, water aquatics and Zumba®. This program is combined with weekly coaching from a professional trainer who records the member’s body weight, BMI, blood pressure and physical dimensions. Following the trainer’s consultation, the member’s confidential data can then be entered into a HIPAA compliant web portal that visually charts their progress and trends along with their daily blood sugar readings. The GlucoFitClub provides its members with a free auto-logging MyGlucoHealth glucometer that can effortlessly upload a participant’s blood glucose readings through a compatible cell phone or computer to their personalized GlucoFitClub web portal. Entra Health Systems is the monitoring technology partner for GlucoFitClub that supplies the NutriFitProgram with the member web portal and wireless glucometer.

“In the face of an expanding obesity epidemic, Nutrisystem is dedicated to helping people lead healthier lifestyles. The NutriFitProgram will make it easier and faster for our customers to achieve their health goals by augmenting our dietary programs,” said Joe Redling, Chairman and CEO at Nutrisystem. “Nutrisystem is delighted to partner with the GlucoFitClub and to offer the nutritional component of this innovative program.”

Added Dr. Bruce Daggy, Vice President of Research and Development at Nutrisystem, “The clinical evidence is very clear from landmark diabetes prevention and management studies, that many cases of type 2 diabetes can be prevented or better managed through healthy weight loss, increased physical activity, and better monitoring.  The NutriFitProgram brings all three features together in one affordable, easy to use program. ”

The YMCA of Orange County and the American Diabetes Association (ADA) of Orange County are both active partners in supporting the program in Southern California. The Y is committed to expanding opportunities for healthy living and provides the physical club environment for the GlucoFitClub and its exercise, monitoring and educational programs. Members of this program also enjoy a local YMCA membership, which includes full access to YMCA facilities and many benefits such as pool access, and supportive community environment. The ADA provides free educational classes and counseling at the YMCA for diabetic and pre-diabetic members.

The NutriFitProgram is being piloted in Southern California with a commitment from the parties to expand promptly in response to the demand. Membership in the GlucoFitClub and the YMCA is included at no additional charge to customers subscribing to a qualifying Nutrisystem home-delivery dietary meal program.

“The NutriFitProgram is about getting results, having fun and enjoying the company of other people who have the same goals. We have packaged a cost-effective dietary home meal-delivery and exercise program that is effective and fits comfortably into our members’ lifestyles,” said Gene Theslof, CEO at GlucoFitClub. “The GlucoFitClub is really all about providing the right tools for people to make important changes in their lives that can make them happier and healthier. We enable this through our collaboration with Nutrisystem, Entra Health Systems and the devotion of our trainers and the sheer enthusiasm of our members who support one another in this important program.”

For additional information on the NutriFitProgram and the GlucoFitClub, please call 877-699-9432.

About Nutrisystem, Inc.

Nutrisystem, Inc. (NASDAQ: NTRI) is the number one home delivery weight-loss company. Nutrisystem® products are sold direct to the consumer through nutrisystem.com, by phone, and at select retailers, with convenient home delivery. The Company offers proven nutritionally balanced weight loss programs designed for women, men, and seniors, as well as the Nutrisystem® D® program, specifically designed to help people with type 2 diabetes who want to lose weight and manage their diabetes. The Nutrisystem® program is based on nearly 40 years of nutrition research and the science of the low glycemic index, and offers a variety of great tasting, satisfying, good carbohydrate meals that are designed to be heart healthy. The program was named the “Least Expensive Home Delivery Program” by CBS Money Watch in January 2011. The program has no membership fees and provides weight management support and counseling by trained weight-loss coaches and online and mobile weight management tools free of charge. Nutrisystem proudly supports the American Diabetes Association in its movement to Stop Diabetes™, as well as to help in increasing awareness of the correlation between weight loss and improvements in diabetes control. For more information or to become a customer, visit http://www.nutrisystem.com or call 1-800-891-3215. For the healthcare professional, please visit http://www.nutrisystem.com/hcp. Follow Nutrisystem on Twitter @nutrisystem and on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/nutrisystem.

About GlucoFitClub, LLC.

The GlucoFitClub is a division of Gluco Fitness Center LLC. a leader in health and wellness strategies and personalized health monitoring that help people lead healthier and more productive lives. In addition to alliances with Nutrisystem, Gluco Fitness Center works closely with the YMCA, American Diabetes Association and American Association of Diabetes Educators to help people lose weight, reverse prediabetes and provide better self-management tools to fight diabetes.  The GlucoFitClub’s bundled combination of dietary meals, supervised exercise classes, coaching and personal electronic monitoring are backed by decades of evidence-based research. Gluco Fitness Center is also an exclusive distributor of the Entra Health System wireless glucometer for digital diabetes management. To learn more about GlucoFitClub or other healthy living programs offered by Gluco Fitness Center, visit us at www.glucofitnesscenter.com or call 877-699-9432.

About MyGlucoHealth®

MyGlucoHealth Wireless from Entra Health Systems is the first FDA cleared and CE certified Bluetooth®-enabled glucometer of its kind in the world. MyGlucoHealth works in combination with a real-time online data collection network to securely upload and manage blood glucose readings using to an online portal eliminating the need to maintain personal logbooks. MyGlucoHealth gives patients more direct control over their care and provides clear lines of communication with clinicians and caregivers. For more information visit: www.myglucohealth.net or call 877-458-2646.

New York  (Profitable.com)  It’s an all-new ball game with the launch of FunGoPlay, the first virtual world to bridge the gap between offline and online play. Targeted at 6-11 year old boys and girls, the online sports theme park uses connected FunGoPlay Sports Gear — a soccer ball and flying disk at launch — to track play periods and reward kids in the online world.

At its core, FunGoPlay is a humorous and light-hearted online sports world that offers kids fun games, funny characters and fully customizable avatars combined with ample rewards and achievements. When children come to the world, they can explore a huge theme park filled with sports ranging from football, baseball, basketball and soccer to extreme sports like snowboarding, skateboarding and even lumberjacking!  Fun mini-games along with more elaborate single and multiplayer games will take kids on awesome adventures letting them do everything from hitting a grand slam, fighting a giant hot dog run amok or escaping a massive Yeti in a downhill snowboarding thrill ride.

What separates FunGoPlay from the pack is the use of its connected sports gear, which comes with monthly, 3-month and annual subscriptions. The flying disk and soccer ball use motion detection electronics to measure play periods and then reward gamers within the online world.   Every seven minutes of play generates a code that translates into a slew of in-game bonuses, points and power-ups.

“FunGoPlay provides an active, fun and positive social experience in both the real and virtual worlds,” said FunGoPlayPresident, David Jacobs. “We created FunGoPlay because there’s no sports entertainment brand that speaks directly to kids and we thought it was important to incentivize active play.  We’re catering to an age group that is going to form much of its exercise habits now and we want to make physical activity a fun and completely different experience.”

FunGoPlay is entering the digital space as online gaming grows along with obesity rates for kids across the country. Over the past three decades, childhood obesity rates in America have tripled, and today, nearly one in three children in America is overweight or obese*. This makes the need to introduce activities that use virtual avenues to encourage real world play all the more crucial.

Research shows that 91% of kids (approximately 64 million) 2-17 are gaming in the US** with a projection that 46 percent of all 3-11 year olds will play in virtual worlds in 2011***.  This demographic will be one segment of a market that will hit 20 million during this same year+.

Online safety is of paramount importance to FunGoPlay. The company has partnered up with Metaverse Mod Squad, the industry-leading kids’ online safety and community experts, to help manage and grow the site’s online community while providing a safe and engaging environment for kids. The site will also soon expand into mobile platforms allowing kids to play anytime, anywhere.

FunGoPlay offers kids access at a variety of levels. The site is always open and free for all visitors, but to fully explore the world and take advantage of the FunGoPlay Sports Gear there are multiple subscription options. A monthly subscription of $6.95 will include the flying disk, while a 3-month subscription for $18.95 will include the soccer ball.  For a $59.95 annual membership, kids will receive both the flying disk and soccer ball.  All costs include shipping and handling. For more information on FunGoPlay, visit www.fungoplay.com.

* Letsmove.org
**NPD Kids & Gaming 2011 Report
***eMarketer, April 2009
+Kzero, 2009

About FunGoPlay

FunGoPlay (www.fungoplay.com) is an online sports theme park and the first virtual world to bridge online and offline play through the use of ‘connected’ sports gear. Conceptualized by industry veterans and dads — including music industry pioneer and start-up expert Steven Lerner, children’s content development, TV distribution, merchandising and licensing veteran David Jacobs (Sesame Workshop/HIT Entertainment), and writer and franchise director of kids properties Fabian Nicieza (Batman, X-Men, Transformers.) — the site caters to the online gaming needs of today’s 6-11 year olds. FunGoPlay delivers customizable avatars, fun games, and a safe, social community while rewarding active offline play.

Contacts

Bender/Helper Impact
Adam Fenton/Brian Reinert
Adam_fenton@bhimpact.com / brian_reinert@bhimpact.com
212.689.6360

Washington  (Profitable.com)  As the Obama Administration urges Congress to pass its ‘Jobs Bill’, a new report co-authored by a former Director of the Congressional Budget Office found the bill would reduce pharmaceutical and related employment by up to 238,000 jobs. The bill includes a provision supported by the President and Members of Congress that would require prescription drug manufacturers to pay rebates to the federal government for drugs dispensed to Medicaid/Medicare dual-eligible beneficiaries and other low-income seniors through the Medicare Part D program.

“The President and liberals in Congress are pushing proposals they claim would stimulate our economy, but would actually directly destroy American jobs,” said Doug Holtz-Eakin President of American Action Forum. “Mandatory Part D Drug Rebates would put people out of work, increase costs for seniors and privately-insured patients, and slow research and development for new drugs.”

The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) estimates that the proposal to add Medicaid-style Rebates in the Medicare Part D program would result in $135 billion in additional rebates to the federal government over ten years. These additional rebates could either constitute a direct, dollar-for-dollar reduction in revenue to the pharmaceutical industry, and could make some medicines too costly to produce.  As a result, these drugs would be withdrawn from the market and the revenue reduction would be even larger than the rebates paid to the government. This loss in revenue to the pharmaceutical industry could both reduce employment and create higher prices for consumers.

“Employment Impact of Proposed Mandatory Part D Drug Rebates,” written by the American Action Forum’s Douglas Holtz-Eakin, Robert A. Book and Michael Ramlet, focuses on reduced employment – both direct employment in pharmaceutical companies and indirect employment in companies that supply goods and services to the pharmaceutical industry. The downstream effects, such as those on distributors, pharmacies and other additional costs to the economy are not specifically taken into account.

To read the American Action Forum study, please click here.

The American Action Forum is a forward-looking policy institute dedicated to keeping America strong, free and prosperous.  It seeks to promote common-sense, innovative, and solutions-based policies that will reform government, challenge out-dated assumptions, and create a smaller, smarter government that will serve its citizens better.

Woonsocket, RI  (Profitable.com)  To reward loyal shoppers, CVS/pharmacy has announced a new promotion that allows customers to earn multiple free gift cards just by shopping for essentials at more than 7,200 locations nationwide. The new promotion began on Sunday October 16 and will go through December 25, 2011. Members of CVS/pharmacy’s ExtraCare Rewards program can earn $10 gift cards to Macy’s, Gap, Applebee’s, Shell Stations, American Express, Barnes & Noble or CVS/pharmacy every week simply by spending $30 on specially-marked items found conveniently in the weekly CVS/pharmacy circular.

“We are always looking for unique ways to deliver value to our customers and our new promotion makes it easy for ExtraCare members to earn gift cards while shopping for popular items each week at CVS/pharmacy,” said Judy Sansone, vice president of merchandising for CVS/pharmacy. “To participate, shoppers simply scan their ExtraCare Rewards card when purchasing specially-marked items included in the CVS/pharmacy circular each week. Participants who make the qualifying purchases can then choose their favorite gift card option from a variety of participating brands, and then opt to keep those gift cards for themselves or gift them to friends and family for birthdays, holidays and other celebrations.”

Customers can find the qualifying products on the front and back pages each week in the CVS/pharmacy circular beginningOctober 16, accessible in-store, online at http://www.cvs.com/weeklyad and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CVS. All qualifying products will be clearly marked as part of the “Earn Free Gift Cards” promotion to make them easily identifiable. Eligible products will range from health and beauty items, to groceries and snacks, household needs, toys and electronics. Products included in the promotion will change each week, giving shoppers flexibility to fill their carts with the essentials they shop for each week while earning multiple gift cards.

Once ExtraCare customers reach the $30 required purchase threshold in the week-long period, a special coupon will print on their receipt that can be redeemed immediately in-store for a $10 gift card. If customers prefer to wait to redeem their coupon they have up to 30 days to do so. Shoppers will also have the opportunity to take advantage of the deal every week, with new products in the weekly circular. However, there is no carry-over balance to the next week, since the specially marked products may change. Customers will also be able to earn up to five gift cards per week by making the qualifying $30 purchases (one$10 gift card is earned for each qualifying $30 purchase). There is a limit of five redemptions per week for each ExtraCare member.

CVS/pharmacy customers save money through the ExtraCare Rewards program all year long. ExtraCare is the nation’s largest retail rewards program, with more than 69 million active cardholders. Registering is free, takes less than two minutes in-store or online, and cardholders earn two-percent back on nearly every dollar spent in the store, every time they shop, just for scanning their card. Additionally, in participating states, for every two prescriptions filled at CVS/pharmacy, cardholders earn $1ExtraBucks® Reward. At the end of each quarter, these combined earnings are paid out in the form of ExtraBucks® Rewards, which can be used to buy nearly anything in the store.

For more information on how the ExtraCare Rewards program works, or to enroll, customers can visit http://www.cvs.com/extrarewards.  Follow CVS/pharmacy on Twitter at http://twitter.com/CVS_Extra to learn about upcoming promotions and to receive exclusive deals and insider scoop.

About CVS/pharmacy

CVS/pharmacy, the retail division of CVS Caremark Corporation (NYSE: CVS), is America’s leading retail pharmacy with more than 7,200 CVS/pharmacy and Longs Drug stores. CVS/pharmacy is committed to improving the lives of those we serve by making innovative and high-quality health and pharmacy services safe, affordable and easy to access, both in its stores and online at CVS.com. General information about CVS/pharmacy and CVS Caremark is available at info.cvscaremark.com.

Hamden, CT  (Profitable.com)  Because Liberty Vision is a community-based practice, Dr. Gold and his staff want to do their part by giving back to less fortunate people that need some assistance.

There is general awareness that currently a serious hunger problem exists in the US.

• The demands for Food Banks have tripled and yet the food supplies have dwindled.
• Among the hungry are 47 million children!!
• CNN reports that 1 out of 6 Americans is going hungry.

At the same time, The New York Times reports that less people are able to afford their insurance co-payments. They end up forfeiting their needed regular health care including Eye Exams

Thus to help Americans stay healthy, and to help the hungry, Dr. Jeffrey Gold and the staff of Liberty Vision are sponsoring a Food Drive that provides any and all a Comprehensive Eye Exam for only $39.00 (reg value $150) and every penny of the $39.00 will be donated to the Connecticut Food Bank!

The $39.00 can feed at least 2 families at the same time as helping to preserve and/or improve vision.

Call Liberty Vision at (203)281-5745 or click here to learn more about this event.

Hunger can be combated while at the same time helping Americans to get the eye care that they need.

Working together as a community, assistance can be given to help the less fortunate.

Note: Please help to spread this news through social media networks like Facebook, Twitter etc.

The more people who know about this event and help spread the news, the more needy families can receive help.

Dr. Jeffrey Gold is a board certified and award winning Ophthalmologist who has been changing the lives of patients for over 30 years. At his office, he performs a variety of custom and standard laser vision correction procedures including LASIK, PRK and Epi-LASIK (Advanced Surface Ablation). He has performed more than 10,000 LASIK procedures and over 1,000 PRK and Epi-LASIK procedures while receiving many awards for his work. Choosing a doctor as experienced and recognized as Dr. Gold is critical to your effort in getting the desired and needed treatments for your eyes.

Dr. Gold’s Liberty Vision is the most sought after and premier laser vision correction center in the Hamden area. Patients who visit Liberty Vision are taken care of personally by Dr. Gold, who will conduct the screenings, pre-operative exams and all post-op exams. With his expertise, experience and help, patients can reduce or eliminate their dependence on glasses or contact lenses.

As the one time part owner of the country’s second laser eye surgery center and being instrumental in developing the Yale Eye Laser Center, Dr. Gold has over 10,000 laser vision correction procedures under his belt. As a result, he has changed the lives of thousands of patients, including his own family members, other doctors and healthcare professionals.

San Francisco  (Profitable.com)  Castlight Health, developer of a personalized health care shopping portal offering unbiased information about health care cost and quality, has announced that Esterline Corporation, a leading worldwide supplier to the aerospace and defense industries headquartered in the Pacific Northwest, will be providing the Castlight portal to its employees across all 23 of its U.S. locations.

In 2004, Esterline piloted a consumer-directed health plan (CDHP) to incent employees who need medical care to seek lower cost and better value treatment with lower health care costs the goal. By 2007, the majority of employees had transitioned into CDHPs, but they had limited tools to compare price and quality of care. The company is now looking to Castlight Health to arm their employees with the best cost and quality information to help them control out-of-pocket expenses, and to help them make the right health care decisions for themselves, their families, and their company.

“Our consumer-directed health plan, when combined with Castlight’s portal, will further prove that given the right tools, employees will find better health care value, while seeking appropriate quality care,” said Teresa Sebert, Esterline’s Director of Benefits. “In 2010, our average employee spent 26% less on medical costs than they did in 2006 — including premium and provider direct costs, and the company’s expense was controlled to an average of 6% per year which was better than the market average.  We expect to see further increases in savings with the addition and adoption of Castlight.”

Castlight’s portal is highly personalized with an intuitive interface similar to the most popular online comparison shopping tools. This familiarity leads to rapid user adoption, so large employers across the country can quickly empower their employees to make health care decisions that increase their quality of care while decreasing costs.

“What people often don’t realize is that prices for medical services can vary drastically – even for in-network providers in a single region,” commented Dena Bravata, M.D., Chief Medical Officer at Castlight Health. “Therefore, Castlight’s ability to provide a personalized health care shopping portal is paramount, and given that Esterline is a national leader in tackling health care costs, it makes us even more excited to assist their employees in finding quality health care at the right cost.”

About Castlight Health

Castlight Health enables employers, their employees, and health plans to take control of health care costs and improve care. Named #1 on The Wall Street Journal’s list of “The Top 50 Venture-Backed Companies” for 2011 and one of Dow Jones’ 50 Most Investment-Worthy Technology Start-Ups, Castlight Health helps the country’s self-insured employers and health plans empower consumers to shop for health care. Castlight Health is headquartered in San Francisco and backed by prominent investors including Venrock, Oak Investment Partners, Maverick Capital, Morgan Stanley Investment Management, Wellcome Trust, Cleveland Clinic, and U.S. Venture Partners. For more information, please visit our web site at http//:www.castlighthealth.com or call (888) 227-8544.

Jamestown, NC  (Profitable.com)  Childhood obesity has become the number one health concern among parents in the United States. Overweight children tend to become overweight adults. The physical, emotional and medical costs associated with obesity include: heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, breathing problems, arthritis, cancer and low self esteem. The USDA has created My Plate to educate people about these issues.

Memory Cross and Wall Printing teamed up to develop a series of origami style cards that help children learn to live healthier lives. The design of the Memory Cross card is so unique that children are amazed at how the card works. As a result children will play with the card over and over again, and as they do internalize the message written on each card. Memory Cross wanted to create a line of coloring cards that were unique, that children would love, and at the same time convey the importance of eating healthy says Mike Vitamvas, who is a partner in both companies.

The initial coloring cards include: the ABCs of food by Charles the Chef, which is based on the book of the same name written by Rosevelt Pitts, a coloring card that explains the new My Plate developed by the USDA, and Lunch time with Mia and Noah. More cards are in development.

The cards will be distributed by organizations involved in children’s heath including: pediatricians, hospitals, insurance agencies and non-profits. Each card can be imprinted with name of the sponsoring organization.

The Memory Cross design has been private branded by hundreds of organizations since its inception five years ago including Lifeway and The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, so it made sense to create a line of cards that helped children learn to live healthier.

Memory Cross creates unique origami style interactive cards that are used by parents and churches to teach children Bible Stories and share the Gospel. In addition many companies private brand the cards for marketing, promotional and educational purposes.

Los Angeles, CA  (Profitable.com)  Each month there are hundreds of positive success stories from individuals who have received the Lap-Band after first calling 1 800 GET THIN. Just in the past 9 months, 1 800 GET THIN has assisted more than a thousand individuals to regain their health and livelihoods by working with facilities and doctors who specialize in the surgical treatment of weight loss. Our highest priority is to work with facilities and physicians that provide the highest level of patient safety while servicing their communities and patients.

1 800 GET THIN associates with professionals that provide services specifically designed for individuals suffering from obesity and associated diseases resulting from obesity. Our goal, as well as the goal of the centers and professionals we work with, is to attain a healthier and happier life for these individuals.

1 800 GET THIN only works with accredited facilities that adhere to a strict surgical and pre-operative regimen where they follow extensive safety protocols that are among the most thorough in the industry. Before any patient is allowed to have weight loss surgery, the patient will undergo a battery of diagnostic examinations designed specifically for their safety. Due to these comprehensive tests, many underlying medical conditions that are directly related to obesity are diagnosed and treated. Depending on the results of these tests, not all individuals will qualify for or will be approved for the surgery. All surgical procedures, no matter how minor, have risks. Every facility and physician working with 1 800 GET THIN is required to inform any potential patient of the risks and will also provide a written disclosure for which the patient will sign.

The facilities that work with 1 800 GET THIN help more people through the surgical intervention of weight loss than any other program of its kind in California. The safety record for these centers remains one of the highest in the country. These facilities continue to be the leaders in this field of medicine and provide an excellent level of care.

Ron and Tammie Sayles of Beaumont, CA have lost a combined total of nearly 200 pounds with the Lap-Band procedure. “I went from 288 pounds to 197, and Ron lost an even hundred pounds, going from 303 to his present weight of 203 pounds,” says Tammie.

“I’m thankful for all the medical screening that we received because before having our Lap-Bands done, the doctors found ulcers in Ron’s esophagus that could have become cancerous,” says Tammie. “Ron was placed on medication, and the ulcers healed. I feel that they saved Ron’s life, Since having our procedures Ron and I have renewed intimacy and I fell like a whole new person. We have more energy than ever. My only regret is not having the Lap-Band earlier. It’s like getting a second chance in life to be there for my husband and children.”

Lap-Band surgery remains the safest weight loss procedure available. Alternatives to the Lap-Band procedure, such as gastric stapling or bypass, are more invasive and have up to five times higher risks of significant complications. While the Lap Band is fully reversible, gastric stapling or bypass are not. The facilities and physicians that work with 1 800 GET THIN will explain all of these surgical weight loss options.

According to the United States Surgeon General, obesity kills hundreds of thousands of Americans yearly and is the second cause of preventable death in the United States. Many scientific studies have shown that the majority of obese patients are not able to lose weight and keep it off with diet and exercise alone. For those patients, the Lap-Band procedure remains a very good option. The Lap-Band procedure is an FDA approved surgical procedure performed with the use of general anesthesia where a band is placed around the upper part of the stomach.

Hundreds of thousands of obese patients have successfully lost weight and kept it off long-term with the Lap-Band. Studies have shown increased life span after weight loss surgery. It is solely a patient’s decision to proceed with surgery having weighed these risks and benefits after full informed consent and discussion with their respective doctors.

1-800-GET-THIN has helped thousands of people to take the first steps to a new, healthier life. For information on weight loss, lifestyle changes and the Lap-Band, call 1-800-GET-THIN or visit www.1800getthin.com . All individuals should consult their physician prior to any weight loss program. Studies indicate that individuals can achieve 30-50% excess weight loss at 3 years.

Tallahassee, FL  (Profitable.com)  The Large Urology Group Practice Association (LUGPA), representing more than 1,800 urologists, encourages men to speak out to preserve prostate cancer screenings. Last week, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommended healthy men should no longer receive prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood tests as part of routine cancer screening.

This decision is being made by a panel that does not include urologists or oncologists. No new research has been cited that would call for this drastic change in prostate cancer testing recommendations since the USPSTF considered this issue in 2009.

In fact, newer studies found deaths from prostate cancer dropped 44 percent among screened men over a 14-year period, when compared with unscreened men, and found screening efficiency for prostate cancer similar to other cancers.

This same task force suggested mammograms were unnecessary for women ages 40-49 and recommended against teaching women breast self exams, which was soundly rejected by Congress after public outcry.

These recommendations jeopardize the health of countless Americans and needlessly puts in harm’s way the men who are most at risk: those who are underinsured, live in rural areas (where health care is not readily available), have a family history of prostate cancer, and particularly African-Americans (who have the highest incidence of and death rates from prostate cancer). LUGPA supports current recommendations endorsing PSA screening for well-informed men who wish to pursue early diagnosis.

“The government has failed to safeguard our nation’s health,” said Dr. Concepcion, LUGPA President and Director of Clinical Research at Urology Associates, P.C. in Nashville. “Early detection is critical to the success of prostate cancer treatments and these recommendations risk undoing 20 years of progress in reducing deaths from prostate cancer.  Even now, prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in men.”

LUGPA encourages all concerned citizens to contact policymakers to demand the government not restrict access to this life-saving testing.

About LUGPA

LUGPA represents 95 large urology group practices in the United States, with more than 1,800 physicians who make up more than 20 percent of the nation’s practicing urologists. LUGPA and its member practices are committed to best practices, research, data collection, and benchmarking to promote quality clinical outcomes. Visit http://lugpa.org/default.aspx for more information about LUGPA.

New York, New York  (Profitable.com)  October is National Dental Hygiene Month and Celebrity Dentist and author Dr. Catrise Austin of VIP Smiles in New York City is launching a local consumer awareness campaign to alert residents of the New York/Tri-State community about the potential risks of postponing dental appointments and neglecting their oral health.

Dr. Austin’s Oral Healthcare Can’t Wait™ Campaign is a local component of a national awareness initiative sponsored by The Dental Trade Alliance (DTA), a nonprofit trade association representing leading dental manufacturers, distributors, and laboratories.

According to Dr. Catrise Austin, “There’s no denying that the last 3 years have been tough financially for many Americans across the nation including New York residents. The current economic climate is causing many people to either postpone the dental treatment plans recommended by their dentists, or to put off dental visits altogether. Unfortunately, there are long-term health risks associated with postponing oral care.”

Some of the health risks that Dr. Austin is referring to include the following:

• Tooth decay is a progressive disease. Postponing treatment can lead to more complex, more invasive, and more expensive treatment, such as root canals or extractions.

• According to everydayhealth.com, one study in the Australian Dental Journal pegged tooth decay as one of the most common infectious oral diseases. These bacterial infections can be contagious     and passed along.

• The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) warns that the mouth is the gateway to the body and is challenged by invasions by bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi. There are 120 diseases, including early signs of HIV infection, oral herpes virus, and oral cancer that can be detected while sitting in the dental chair. Some of these diseases can be asymptomatic. Postponing your dental checkup could prevent the opportunity for early detection and treatment that could prolong or even save your life.

• Recent studies that have been reviewed by The American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) have linked undiagnosed and untreated gum disease with a negative impact on patients’ heart health, diabetes, pregnancy, and other systemic health conditions.

• Chronic bad breath is usually due to conditions that may be easily prevented by regular oral hygiene appointments and consultation.

“With so many people looking for jobs or worried about their job security, it must be noted that having bad breath and discolored, damaged, or missing teeth are the kiss of death in today’s competitive job market,” explains Dr. Catrise Austin. “Your smile is the first thing employers, managers, and co-workers notice.”

Is the Oral Healthcare Can’t Wait Campaign just a way for dentists to make money during tough times? Absolutely not, says Dr. Austin. “If more people truly comprehended the connection between oral health with the rest of the body and its overall health, I believe they would prioritize their discretionary spending accordingly. Choosing between undergoing gum disease or cavity treatment versus buying a new cell phone, wireless computer pad, weekly professional hair and nail grooming, or taking expensive vacations would become a no-brainer.”

Here are some options to consider during your next dental visit:

• Dental professionals are primarily focused on prevention when their patients allow them to do so. In addition, many patients are not taking full advantage of the scope of services covered by their dental insurance. Ask your dentist what can be done to prevent cavities such as dental sealants for permanent molars as well as fluoride treatment for adults.

• Most dentists are very flexible when it comes to paying out-of-pocket expenses. Ask about alternative payment options like 0% interest financing, using a credit card, or working out an in-office payment plan.

• Talk to your dentist about prioritizing your treatment plan. Ask what needs to be done immediately and what can wait until you have more discretionary income.

Dr. Austin shares 5 tips that can give consumers a healthy white smile at home throughout the year:

1.  Follow this smile workout at least twice daily:
Brush, Floss, Rinse, and Scrape (or Brush) your tongue to keep your gums and teeth healthy and your breath fresh.

2.  Drink fluoridated tap water or use a fluoride mouthwash to fight cavities

3.  Read the nutritional facts on packaged food/beverage labels:
Pay special attention to the hidden sugar in your food and drinks to avoid cavities.

4.  Need to rejuvenate your dull smile? Try teeth whitening!
Consider refreshing your look using the Crest 3D White Collection (less than $100)! Brush for 2 minutes daily with the Oral B 3D Pulsar Toothbrush and Crest 3D White Vivid Toothpaste, then rinse daily with the Crest 3D White Multicare Whitening Mouthrinse, then add that dazzle and by using the Crest 3D White Professional Effects Whitestrips (the most effective of all Crest Whitestrips) once daily for 30 minutes (for 3-7 days). If you want to quickly whiten your smile try Crest 3D White 2 Hour Express Whitestrips ($54.99, 4 whitening strips) deliver a noticeably whiter smile in just 2 hours. Apply once for 2 hours and get noticeable results that last for three months. Each kit contains 4 treatments so you can keep your smile bright for a whole year.

5.  Never say to yourself, “My teeth don’t hurt. I don’t need to see a dentist.”
You can’t have a great smile without the help of your dental team. Although there are many tools available to maintain your smile in the comforts of your own home, nothing replaces visiting your dental team every 6 months for your gum evaluation, professional cleaning, and cavity check.

“Oral Healthcare Can’t Wait is a very important national initiative with the ultimate goal of sustaining and improving oral health in America,” explained Dr. Catrise Austin. “I’m very proud to do my part and spread the message with my New York City local community.” Dr. Austin will be kicking off her local Oral Healthcare Can’t Wait campaign in honor of October’s National Dental Hygiene Month with a series of free dental health lectures for the public (all ages welcome) where Dr. Austin will be discussing some of the top dental issues that our community should be concerned with such as the importance of prevention, free and low cost access to dental care, what dental products are safe and work best, and do-it yourself tips to maintain optimum oral health at home between dental visits.

Dr. Catrise Austin will lecturing for free, providing Q & A’s, giving away valuable prizes, and signing copies of her book 5 Steps to the Hollywood A-List Smile in New York City on the following dates:

Monday October 10th, 2011 6-8 PM (Columbus Day): Hue Man Bookstore, Harlem
Saturday October 22nd, 2011 1PM: New York Public Library 96th Street Branch

About Dr. Catrise Austin

As the first private practice dentist in the nation certified to offer HIV testing to patients while in the dental chair, Dr. Catrise Lynette Austin is a trailblazing expert in the field of dentistry. She is an author, professional speaker, entrepreneur, and founder of VIP Smiles-a modern dental practice in New York City. Notable celebrities such as X-Factor Judge Paula Abdul; Dancing With The Stars dancers Karina Smirnoff and Maksim Chmerkovskiy; Apprentice Diva Omarosa; HBO’s Entourage Actor Rex Lee; Songstress Toni Braxton; TV talk show host Wendy Williams; Food Network Chef Sunny Anderson; Dallas Cowboy tight end Martellus Bennett, 2010 Olympic gold medalist Ashleigh McIvor, and Grammy Award-winning rapper/actor/author Common (to name a few) have all placed their teeth in her capable hands. Austin is an award-winning dentist and columnist who has solidified her reputation in her field with national radio as well as national TV appearances on The Discovery Health Channel, Today Show, and Good Morning America, among others. Dr. Austin is available for local and national interviews, as well as speaking engagements on dental health, HIV testing in the dental office, entrepreneurship, careers in dentistry, and improving your image with your smile. For more information about dental health or for booking information contact Dr. Catrise Austin at 212-262-6054 or visit http://www.vipsmiles.com

About the Dental Trade Alliance

The Dental Trade Alliance is an association of companies that provide dental equipment, supplies, materials, and services to dentists and other oral care professionals. Its member companies are distributors, dental laboratories, and manufacturers located in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. By providing the best equipment, materials, and services to dentists and oral care professionals, they are partners in improving the oral health of everyone. For more information, visit http://www.dentaltradealliance.org

Carlsbad, CA  (Profitable.com)  LIFE Ionizers® has released a filtered water pitcher that filters, alkalizes, and imbues water with antioxidant properties. The Pitcher of Life™ is the world’s first “unplugged” water ionizer, making it ideal for camping, hiking, picnics and many other places where healthy ionized alkaline mineral water is hard to come by.

More than just a Filter Pitcher

The Pitcher of Life™ does more than just filter water:

• Adds Essential Minerals
• Quickly Raises Water pH to healthful levels
• Creates antioxidant hydroxyl ions in water
• Filters harmful contaminants
• Makes great tasting water

The Pitcher of Life™ another feature which make it a great choice for people who want healthy water when they’re on vacation. The pitcher costs a fraction of what conventional water ionizers cost, making the health benefits of alkaline ionized mineral water accessible to health conscious consumers on a budget.

Limited time offer: Life Ionizers® is offering the Pitcher of Life™ for a limited time for just $49.95 a – savings of over 40%!

Safer than a Filter Pitcher

The Pitcher of Life™ is made of 100% BPA free materials, making it safer than competing water filter pitchers and bottled waters. Recent studies confirm that BPA is a potent hormone disruptor and is not safe for children.

More Convenient than a Filter Pitcher

Designed with convenience in mind, the Pitcher of LIFE™ fits easily in a refrigerator door so it’s easy to keep the alkaline water in it ice cold. THE Pitcher of LIFE™ has a built in time-to-change indicator which takes the guesswork out of knowing when to change the filter.

Consumers can buy the Pitcher of LIFE with confidence; it comes backed with a full 1 year warranty. Filters last about 4 months with regular use.

Answering the Needs of our Customers

Life Ionizers® Chief Executive Visionary Rick H. Cabados says the Pitcher of LIFE™ was developed in response to “overwhelming” consumer demand:

“Our customers have been clamoring for a way to get the health benefits they enjoy with our line of home water ionizers when away from home. We used technology originally developed by NASA to create the world’s first water ionizer that does not use electricity.”

About Life Ionizers

Life Ionizers is division of EarthTrade Water Inc. (http://www.EarthTradeWater.com) which was founded in 1996 by Rick Cabados. LIFE Ionizers has been a leading supplier of home water ionizers in the US since the company was founded.

For more information on the Pitcher of LIFE, visit http://www.lifeionizers.com/products/accessories/travel-systems/pitcher-of-life.html or call (877) 204-7772.

Women’s Health Specialists, one of the region’s most trusted and respected names in women’s health care, has once again received national acclaim for its superior health care performance. The Better Performer status was given to Women’s Health Specialists by the Medical Group Management Association (MGMA). According to the MGMA’s Performance and Practices of Successful Medical Groups: 2011 Report Based on 2010 Data, Women’s Health Specialists was identified as a “better performer” because of Profitability and Cost Management compared with similar medical groups nationwide. Only about 400 medical groups in the entire nation received this ranking.

“Our area of proficiency of Profitability and Cost Management speaks highly of the attention to detail throughout all levels of our business,” said Bill Hughes, Administrator, Women’s Health Specialists. “We take great pride in managing a wellness organization that is focused on maintaining excellent patient care without undue expenses or patient dissatisfaction. Cost management is certainly one of the key elements in that endeavor,” added Hughes.

“We have invested in state-of-the-art equipment and technology to assure each and every one of our patients is getting the absolute best care possible at the most reasonable cost,” said Jeremy S. Singer, M.D. FACOG, Women’s health Specialists. “That coupled with the long term stability of our practice means patients really have come to trust and respect the level of quality we provide each and every day,” added Dr. Singer. Women’s Health Specialists has achieved the national ranking five of the last seven years, receiving the highest level of national ranking in two of those years.

The MGMA report and ranking has been a benchmarking standard among medical groups for nearly a decade. The ranking is made from data supplied by respondents as well as a questionnaire that assesses management behavior, practices, and procedures nationwide.

MGMA, founded in 1926, is the nation’s principal voice for medical group practices. MGMA’s more than 22,500 members manage and lead 13,600 organizations, in which more than 280,000 physicians practice.

Women’s Health Specialists has provided nearly 40 years of continuous service to the women on Florida’s Treasure Coast. The obstetricians, gynecologists, nurse-midwives and support staff of Women’s Health Specialists provide a full range of high quality healthcare services to women through all stages of the lives.

For more information, contact Bill Hughes, Administrator, Women’s Health Specialists, 3498 N.W. Federal Highway, Jensen Beach, Florida; (772) 219-1080, ext. 1079

FMF Power Beverage, the industry’s first all-natural performance energy drink with specific hydration and recovery properties, is offering consumers a chance to win prizes including a grand prize consisting of an all-inclusive trip to Las Vegas to attend the GEICO AMA EnduroCross Championship Finals, as well as meet FMF Power Beverage Team Rider, Kyle Redmond.

The FMF Power Beverage “Vegas VIP Weekend” sweepstakes officially launches Oct. 3 and runs through Oct. 31, 2011. The promotion will be fostered simultaneously through the FMF Power Beverage and FMF Racing Facebook pages. In addition to the grand prize trip, which includes airfare, meals and accommodations for two, FMF Power Beverage will also provide the winners with $500 dollars spending cash while in Las Vegas. Moreover, the contest will award five runners-up with FMF Power Beverage prize packs.

“Motocross fans are some of the most die-hard sports fans on the planet, and this promotion is all about giving back to them,” said Don Emler, Jr., FMF Power Beverage. “Our goal is to simultaneously introduce new fans to FMF Power Beverage through the extreme sport of EnduroCross while showing them how our all-natural formula helps athletes excel at the highest levels of competition. Luckily we have our FMF POWER rider Kyle Redmond in the hot seat in Vegas, and we’re sure that he’ll give our VIP winner the show of a lifetime in the process of taking home the checkered flag.”

“I’m stoked to be a part of such a killer FMF Power Beverage sweepstakes,” said Redmond. “It’s going to be a really exciting race to finish up the year in Las Vegas, and I’m proud to represent two brands that are all about giving back to the Motocross community.”

To enter the contest and learn more about FMF Power Beverage, load facebook.com/FMFPOWER.

About FMF Power Beverage

FMF Power Beverage is an all-natural, high-powered energy drink containing a proprietary PowerBlend™: an infusion of clean, healthy nutrients, vitamins and antioxidants for immediate energy and sustained performance. FMF POWER’s benefits stem from its four pillars – Energy, Performance, Hydration and Recovery. FMF POWER is available in Citrus Lemonade and Fruit Punch flavors, both ‘Tunnel pasteurized’ to preserve efficacy and flavor. For more information, load facebook.com/FMFPOWER.

About FMF Racing

Owner and founder Don Emler started FMF Racing in 1973. Don’s vision was to provide the top level US racing equipment at the grass roots level. FMF was formed in Don’s garage and is now located in Rancho Dominguez in a 90,000 square foot, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility. FMF’s goal is simple; design and manufacture the world’s best performance exhaust 100% in the USA under one roof. Visit FMFRacing.com for more information.

Friends Life Care’s overall mission is to help people age vitally in their homes, which they accomplish for 97% of clients with a highly unique, care- focused long term care protection plan. The organization promotes holistic approaches to maintaining healthy, active living for their clients through its proprietary program, VigR™ (pronounced vigor)-a proactive research based offering created to help members strengthen and extend their mental and physical health and resilience. In an outreach effort to help Baby Boomers and older adults in the Philadelphia area and Delaware, they have opened the enrollment in the Enrichment Workshop series to the general public.

“VigR stands for vitality, independence, growth and resilience, qualities that we know are essential to healthy aging. We feel strongly that combined, they can help prevent the effects of chronological aging” comments Elise Lamarra, Vice President of Clinical Operations. The 2011 fall workshops provide relevant, timely, cutting- edge information and tools, to support that goal.

Teaching courses are leaders in their fields looking to explore new perspectives, generate powerful insights, and help attendees discover exciting new potentials by going through diverse topics – from physical fitness to navigating transitions in the second half of life. For time challenged schedules, Friends Life Care designed 3 new single session, 1.5 hour workshops, taught over lunchtime or at the end of the business day with wine and cheese. Other interactive multi-session programs cover topics such as, Improving Sleep for Better Health, Finding Meaning and Energy at any Stage in Life, Introduction to Mindfulness Meditation, Nutrition Myth Busters, and Exercise: A Prescription for Vitality. The full course book and registration can be seen on the corporate website.

“When it comes to aging, many of us don’t realize what we don’t know. Learning can be a life-long challenge, and some of the topics and issues covered in the Enrichment Workshops have the potential to actually stave off the effects of the aging process. The possibility is powerful!” said Carol Barbour, President of Friends Life Care.

For aging adults, planning for their long term care is no longer an option, it is essential. According to a CRS Report for Congress, the average life expectancy for someone aged 65 is more than 18 additional years. In light of longer life spans and the constantly changing US economy, it is more critical than ever to have a plan in place, for both fiscal and personal peace of mind. “Without a long term care protection plan of some sort, the out- of- pocket costs for one medical situation or chronic illness could potentially put a gigantic dent in or completely exhaust a person’s entire life savings” says Carol Barbour. “Medicare is extremely limited in what it covers for long term care, but people do not realize that”, furthers Barbour.

About Friends Life Care

Friends Life Care offers a unique, affordable alternative or supplement to long-term care insurance and continuing care retirement communities. Designed to help individuals and couples remain at home and independent as they age, customizable membership plans from Friends Life Care help members protect their savings and prepare for the unexpected, while providing innovative options to help increase their vitality and longevity. Unlike long-term-care insurance, the Friends Life Care team of highly credentialed Care Coordinators arranges and supervises all the services you need. Members have no claim forms to file and no reimbursements to wait for. Friends Life Care spares members and their loved ones the enormous stress, cost and uncertainty of locating and managing reliable, qualified care on their own. The emphasis on prevention and attention to the whole person distinguishes Friends Life Care’s philosophy toward independent aging. For more information, please visit http://www.friendslifecare.org or call 215-628-8964.

Fitbit, the market leader in wireless activity tracking, today launched their newest tracker, the Fitbit Ultra. The Ultra contains all the core functionality of the original tracker: tracking steps, distance, sleep, wireless uploads to Fitbit.com, and free online tools, with a device display for real-time feedback. By combining new fitness features such as tracking stairs climbed with additional social and motivational online tools, plus Fitbit’s first iPhone app, the Ultra aims to provide a more powerful and fun way for people get more fit and active throughout their busy days.

Brand new features include:

• Stair Tracker – Track how many stairs or hills you climb each day; Ultra now contains a state-of the-art altimeter
• Chatter – Motivational messages like “Walk Me” appear throughout the day
• Greeting – Name your Fitbit Ultra and it will appear on your display – “Jane” or “FitBuddy”
• Stopwatch – Challenge yourself to beat a previous time or annotate specific workouts
• Clock – See the time directly on the display screen
• Colors – Choose between blue and plum

Additional new online tools and apps:

• Badges for climbing stairs, steps, and distance keep you motivated.
• New ways to share fitness achievements on Facebook or Twitter to tap into your support network.
• Easier ways to find friends to compete with or share out your fitness progress achievements.
• Food Goal, a weight management tool that dynamically changes based on activities you complete during the day.
• Fitbit’s first iPhone App for tracking food and activities on the go.

“At Fitbit, we are dedicated to creating everyday health and fitness products that are easy for people to incorporate into their lives. People want an easy to use tracker that gives them real-time stats to help them make smart decisions through their day, is comfortable and discreet to wear, uploads wirelessly and is affordable,” said CEO James Park.

“For Ultra, we held true to this. People often overlook the power of stairs in achieving fitness. By combining stair climbing with social and motivational features, we think we can help people fit more fitness into their everyday lives in a fun and easy way.”

The new Fitbit Ultra Wireless Activity Tracker is currently available in the U.S. and Canada by ordering online at www.fitbit.com for $99.95 and will be available by mid-October in select retail locations across the U.S.

Walking and Taking the Stairs Adds Up, and Up and Up

Trend research indicates our shift to a more sedentary lifestyle is slowly taking its toll on our health. Health experts advise that we can minimize the negative impacts of low physical activity in our lives in simple ways: by walking and being generally more active throughout our day. Also, recent studies show that adding stair climbing into a daily routine is proven to lower body fat, minimize waist circumference and burn up to 400% more calories than walking.

The new Fitbit Ultra is the only all-day activity tracker to measure floors climbed. Ultra’s accelerometer and state-of-the-art altimeter technology work together to track movement from climbing the stairs. This smart technology combination understands the difference between climbing stairs and taking the elevator.

Fitbit also updated its online dashboard to better track personal fitness metrics and achievements for a more visually motivating, comprehensive experience.  For example, Fitbit.com compares daily climb activities to well-known landmarks around the world such as The Eiffel Tower and Machu Picchu.

About Fitbit

Founded in 2008 in San Francisco, CA, Fitbit is the market leader for wireless activity trackers. Fitbit is dedicated to delivering simple, innovative health and fitness products and services that engage people to lead healthier, more active lives by giving them the tools to become more aware, more motivated and more fit every day. Fitbit is funded by the Foundry Group, True Ventures, and SoftTech VC. Fitbit products can be purchased on www.fitbit.com or through any one of our many retail partners, like Best Buy, REI, Amazon, Radio Shack and 24 Hour Fitness.  For more information please visit www.fitbit.com and connect with us on Facebook or Twitter.