Zen Rohatsu Invites Readers to Follow Buddha’s Path to Enlightenment
Philadelphia, PA, Sept. 6, 2022 — Could an ancient practice hold the key to dealing with today’s stressors? Zen meditation practitioner Nora D’Ecclesis opens her new book, Zen Rohatsu, with a guided visualization that places readers at the time of the Buddha, under the sacred fig tree, as he sought to obtain enlightenment.
“Buddha was a man who found his enlightenment and set his path, avoiding suffering by controlling his thoughts and desires,” wrote D’Ecclesis. “He was not and is not considered a deity.”
And with this historical perspective into how the concept of Buddhist enlightenment emerged, D’Ecclesis sets the stage for Zen Rohatsu, which provides thoroughly researched insights into the origins of meditation, its rituals and the ways in which living mindfully can be transformative. Included are simple meditation techniques, such as postures, breathing exercises and the use of mala beads.
Written for anyone wanting to cultivate a deeper sense of mindfulness and spirituality — from beginners to advanced meditation practitioners — Zen Rohatsu guides readers down the proverbial path of enlightenment.
“Zen Rohatsu is a microcosm of Zen meditation which best explains why we meditate and why most should consider this spiritual practice,” D’Ecclesis said. “I sat to outline a story about my spiritual practice, which I wrote from the memory of my own experiences as a lay meditator. The result is this book.”
The book explains that Rohatsu is a spiritual practice of meditative zazen that occurs on the eighth day of the twelfth month on the Gregorian calendar. The meditation sessions, which focus on Zazen Meditation rather than scriptures or rituals, are celebrated for seven days in advance of December 8 by Zen practitioners all over the world. Zen Rohatsu will help readers understand this type of meditation and how it might help them.
D’Ecclesis also added: “Zazen, a Japanese style dating back to the Buddha, is a meditation that keeps us in the present with focus, equanimity and stress management by clearing our thoughts from the various anxieties that permeate them. We turn off the chatter in our own heads and establish a place of compassion. We all experience interoceptive responses to the stressors and suffering and even the great joys in life, as all sentient beings do, so the balance of meditation and concept of equanimity are a welcome alternative.”
Nora D’Ecclesis is an American bestselling nonfiction author and Haiku poet. Her international No.1 bestseller The Retro Budget Prescription held the top spot in Kindle book downloads for the business/self-help category for over a year. She is a graduate of Kean University of New Jersey with post graduate degrees in administration and education. Her other published nonfiction includes Amazon No. 1 bestseller Haiku: Natures Meditation and paperbacks/eBooks on such topics as time management, guided visualizations, gratitude/equanimity, journaling and Zen meditation.
For more information about the author, visit https://noradecclesis.com/, or follow her on Twitter at @DECCLESIS or on Facebook at NoraDEcclesis.
Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention honours World Suicide Prevention Day with VIRTUAL EVENT to help raise awareness and understanding
CANMORE, Alberta, Sept. 06, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Each year on September 10th, people in over 50 countries around the world connect with each other by officially recognizing World Suicide Prevention Day. World Suicide Prevention Day is a chance to promote understanding about suicide: those impacted by a suicide attempt or loss, family or friends, organizations, professionals, politicians, volunteers, and community members.
The national association for suicide prevention in Canada, the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention (CASP), will be hosting a virtual ONLINE EVENT on Saturday, September 10, 2022 at 12:00 PM EST, in English with French subtitles, on this year’s theme of “Creating Hope Through Action”, with a focus on suicide prevention in the workplace.
The event will feature presentations by a group of panelists who will share their unique experiences of navigating suicide prevention in the workplace. Following the presentations, there will be a live Q & A. At the end of the session, participants will be encouraged to participate later that evening in a “Candle Vigil”, by placing a lit candle in their window to “Light a Flame of Hope” at 8:00 pm in their respective time zones. To register for this event, please visit: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/canadian-association-for-suicide-prevention/events/2022-world-suicide-prevention-day/
“Every year, 160 million people worldwide contemplate suicide and, tragically, 800.000 of them die by suicide,” says Sean Krausert, Executive Director for the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention. “This year’s theme for World Suicide Prevention Day is “Creating Hope Through Action” and this message is crucial for communities to ignite a spark to assist those struggling and give those hope in the name of suicide prevention and life promotion.”
The Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention (CASP), envisions a Canada without Suicide. Since 1985, CASP has worked towards the achievement of its mission by advocating, communicating, and educating for suicide prevention, intervention, postvention and life promotion in Canada.
Avian Flu Remains a Persistent Threat to U.S. Poultry Supplies, Export Markets
Poultry producers, exporters and consumers increasingly vulnerable to future HPAI market shocks
DENVER (September 6, 2022)—The widespread outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) that roiled U.S. poultry production earlier this year and led to skyrocketing prices for eggs and turkey has subsided. Cases of HPAI diminished significantly as temperatures warmed and the migratory season for wild birds ended. However, the risk of another outbreak this fall remains elevated and the stakes for poultry producers couldn’t be higher, according to a new report from CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange.
Poultry product values had increased substantially prior to this year’s HPAI outbreak due to tight supplies and strong consumer demand for animal protein products. The added burden of HPAI-related supply shocks further exacerbated tight market conditions, sending values skyrocketing. Table egg prices tripled in several markets and turkey breast meat rose to historic peaks.
Similarly, the value of U.S. poultry exports through June was up 19% year-over-year. In 2021, total U.S. poultry exports reached $5.9 billion, and the current pace of exports indicate a potential all-time record high in 2022. The increased dependence on export markets for certain poultry items like chicken paws and leg quarters brings added vulnerability for exporters subject to potential trade restrictions that could result from future HPAI outbreaks.
“Fortunately for U.S. poultry exporters, the current world views on HPAI trade restrictions have relaxed since the last major outbreak in 2014 and 2015,” said Brian Earnest, lead animal protein economist with CoBank. “Rather than a blanket ban, trade partners set new restrictions at county, state or regional levels because outbreaks had become commonplace globally, and not coincidentally, because politicians across the globe were concerned about rapidly escalating food prices after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.”
While current trade restrictions are limited, that could change. At the outset of the HPAI outbreak in 2014, China immediately closed its borders to U.S. poultry, and export-dependent leg quarter prices fell by 50% between mid-2014 and mid-2015. Chicken paw prices fell by even more. China’s markets would not reopen to U.S. poultry until 2019, which occurred as a part of the U.S.-China Phase One trade deal.
The 2014-15 HPAI outbreak devastated U.S. producers, with direct costs associated with euthanizing and depopulating 43.2 million laying hens and 7.3 million turkeys estimated at $1.6 billion. Including the associated recovery costs, the total jumped to more than $3.3 billion.
Since that outbreak, U.S. poultry production grew an average of 2% per year from 2016 to 2020. Reliance on exports has continued to climb, and access to foreign markets remains vital for the U.S. poultry industry. With the stakes that much higher, it is even more crucial to producers, consumers and other entities throughout the value chain that the production stream is secure from the threat of animal disease.
What’s Ahead for Egg, Turkey and Broiler Markets
The HPAI shock to domestic markets has been more severe than in the 2014-15 outbreak, which is considered the largest outbreak in history. The sectors hit the hardest this year are egg and turkey producers, much like in the 2014-15 outbreak. And while the industries have implemented best practices over the past seven years, production methods have not changed significantly.
In 2015, the U.S. egg industry saw an immediate rise in productivity rates after the mass depopulation, followed by flattening for several years. With feed, labor and other production costs much higher today, Earnest expects producers will be slower to rebuild their flocks this time around. “A smaller national layer flock means a smaller egg supply in coming months, higher egg prices, and fewer eggs consumed,” he said.
Coinciding with HPAI outbreaks in U.S. turkey flocks this year, wholesale spot market values for fresh tom breast meat has eclipsed $6.50 per pound in recent weeks, a level previously deemed unattainable. At the same time, breast meat in cold storage dwindled to a low of just 43 million pounds in April, before safety stocks began building again slightly during May.
The HPAI impact on broiler meat production in both 2015 and 2022 appears minimal. But the impact on exports and prices is decidedly different this time around. U.S. broiler meat exports declined by nearly one billion pounds in 2015 and dark meat prices plunged. However, export markets appear more favorable for U.S. broiler meat in 2022. The current 12-month total is within 1% of volume reported a year earlier and the total for 2022 is on pace to best 2015 volume by more than one billion pounds.
CoBank is a cooperative bank serving vital industries across rural America. The bank provides loans, leases, export financing and other financial services to agribusinesses and rural power, water and communications providers in all 50 states. The bank also provides wholesale loans and other financial services to affiliated Farm Credit associations serving more than 76,000 farmers, ranchers and other rural borrowers in 23 states around the country.
CoBank is a member of the Farm Credit System, a nationwide network of banks and retail lending associations chartered to support the borrowing needs of U.S. agriculture, rural infrastructure and rural communities. Headquartered outside Denver, Colorado, CoBank serves customers from regional banking centers across the U.S. and also maintains an international representative office in Singapore.
Start the school year with free math tutoring, STEM games and immersive learning experiences for Kindergarten to Grade 12!
Families and educators can easily access free learning resources from TVO Learn, TVOkids, TVO ILC and TVO Today to help students progress through the Ontario curriculum
Toronto, ON, Sept. 06, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The 2022-2023 school year has arrived! To help students, families and educators make the most of this year, TVO has updated, expanded and improved numerous resources from TVO Learn, TVOkids, TVO ILC and TVO Today. This includes a new TVO Mathifyservice expansion to Ontario students in Grades 4 through 12.
“Expanding our free online math tutoring service to Grade 12 is a great example of how TVO is adapting to the evolving needs of students in this province,” says Jennifer Hinshelwood, COO of TVO. “Our entire portfolio of learning experiences has played a crucial role for so many students, their families and their communities over the past two years. As we enter this new era together, TVO plans to be there for all families whenever they need the support.”
The following K-12 learning resources are available to deepen knowledge or bridge learning gaps so Ontario students can successfully progress through the provincial curriculum. Parents, caregivers and educators are invited to bookmark this page to easily access these resources at any point during the school year.
TVO Mathify (Grades 4 to 12) Tens of thousands of students turn to TVO Mathify for free, 1:1 math tutoring with Ontario Certified Teachers. Now operating seven days a week and newly expanded to support students in Grades 4 through 12, TVO Mathify helps build math skills and confidence through personalized coaching sessions that are available on demand. An interactive whiteboard and voice and text chat features make it easy to share math questions assigned in class. Register for free now: TVOMathify.com.
TVO Learn (Kindergarten to Grade 12) Explore TVO Learn’s grade-specific support for at-home learning anytime you need it. In addition to educator-curated resources like STEM games and age-appropriate, ad-free media from TVOkids, there are over 2,100 Learning Activities available in subject areas like Science and Technology (new!), Mathematics, Language, Social Studies, Health and Physical Education, The Arts and French as a Second Language. Visit TVOLearn.com to get started.
TVO mPower (K-Grade 6) Looking for ad-free STEM games? Take your pick of more than 60 games co-developed by educators to help students in Kindergarten to Grade 6 develop skills in STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). Create a free account to access games like Insect Inn, where players seek out food and building supplies for a bug hotel, or Green City, where they learn how build a city while minimizing impacts on the environment. Register for a free account at TVOmPower.com.
TVO ILC Open House (Grades 9-12) High school students looking to deepen their learning, practice for tests or explore a new subject area can access more than 140 courses in the TVO ILC Open House on TVOLearn.com. These not-for-credit courses are designed for independent study and reflect the learning experiences available through TVO ILC, Ontario’s largest online high school. Explore available courses at TVOLearn.com/collections/courses.
TVOkids (K-Grade 4) TVOkids features series, games and activities that help prepare children for school and life. Discover a range of fun and engaging TVOkids Originals that explore the natural environment (Leo’s Pollinators), independent cooking at home (5 Ingredient Challenge) and the daily adventures in a cross-cultural community (16 Hudson). The upcoming Sunny’s Quest series profiles Black Canadian children from across the country. Discover a new favourite at TVOkids.com.
TVO Today The new TVO Today website and mobile apps make it easy to read, listen and watch the latest in current affairs and documentaries. From The Agenda with Steve Paikin and The Thread with Nam Kiwanuka to podcasts, video explainers and opinion articles, TVO Today provides secondary students and adults with an engaging home for diverse perspectives and fresh storytelling about Ontario. Learn more at TVO.org.
> Visit TVO Arts to learn about iconic works of Canadian art.
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About TVO TVO inspires learning that changes lives and enriches communities. Founded in 1970, we are a globally recognized digital learning organization that engages Ontarians of all ages with inclusive experiences and diverse perspectives. Through video, audio, games, courses, newsletters and articles, we’re investing in the transformative potential of education for everyone. Funded primarily by the Province of Ontario, TVO is a registered charity supported by thousands of sponsors and donors. For more information, visit TVO.me, TVO.org and TVOkids.com.
TVO streaming channels: Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Android, LG, Roku and Samsung.
New Study Calls on Governments and Individuals to Take Action to Reduce Dementia Risks
Report from Alzheimer Society of Canada predicts sharp increase in the number of Canadians who will be living with dementia over the next three decades if no action is taken.
TORONTO, Sept. 6, 2022 /CNW/ - September 6, 2022 – Canada faces serious challenges in supporting people living with dementia and their care partners over the next three decades. However, a new study released today by the Alzheimer Society of Canada says actions to reduce the risk factors associated with dementia could make a big difference in overall numbers, despite our aging population.
The new report, called "Navigating the Path Forward for Dementia in Canada," is the first volume of The Landmark Study, which has been prepared by the Alzheimer Society of Canada. The three-volume study represents the most significant update of the prevalence of dementia in Canada and its forecasted growth since the Society's "Rising Tide" report, which was issued in 2010. The two subsequent volumes, which will deal with the economic and social impact of dementia in Canada over the next three decades, will be released later this year.
"As Canada's baby-boom generation continues to age, the number of people in Canada living with dementia will rise significantly over the next 30 years," says the study's author, Dr. Joshua Armstrong of the Alzheimer Society of Canada. "The impact of this change, both on the number of people living with dementia and their care partners, can be lessened if governments and individual Canadians are prepared to take action to reduce the modifiable risk factors associated with the onset of dementia."
Among the highlights of the report are:
In 2020, there were 597,300 cases of dementia in Canada. By 2030, we can expect this number reach close to one million. By 2050, the number of cases will almost triple the 2020 level, meaning over 1.7 million Canadians will be living with dementia.
Ontario is expecting to see the number of people living with dementia more than triple in the next 30 years, accounting for an increase of 505,846 cases. This is a 202 per cent increase in comparison to 2020 estimates of dementia in the province.
The Landmark Study developed three hypothetical scenarios where the onset of dementia in Canadians was delayed by 1, 5 or 10 years.
All three hypothetical scenarios demonstrate the power of risk reduction from a national standpoint. Even a small delay of one year could result in almost 500,000 fewer new cases by 2050 and make a huge difference in national dementia rates across the three decades.
While some risk factors for dementia are not able to be modified, there are concrete ways many individuals and governments can reduce the risk of dementia.
If the onset of dementia could be delayed by 10 years, over 4 million new cases of dementia could be avoided by 2050.
Delaying the onset of dementia could also have an enormous impact on caregiving for people living with dementia in Canada. A 10-year delay in onset of dementia could reduce the number of caregiving hours needed by almost 1 billion hours per year.
"We hope this study will remind Canadians that dementia is not part of the normal process of aging and that there are steps people and institutions can take to reduce risks of dementia," says Kevin Noel, Interim CEO of the Alzheimer Society of Canada. "Governments at all levels also have a role to play by providing funds for dementia research and supporting programs that help people living with dementia and their caregivers to have the best possible quality of life."
"This Landmark Study is crucial for all Canadians and policy makers, alike. Dementia promises to be devastating in the coming years and we must do all we can to reduce risk and prevent dementia," says Cathy Barrick, CEO of the Alzheimer Society of Ontario.
The Alzheimer Society is a Federation of 26 community support providers, operating in every corner of Ontario. We supported over 100,000 clients last year, including both care partners and people living with dementia. We provide education and training to physicians and other healthcare professionals, as well as the general public. With hundreds of staff and thousands of volunteers, we seek to alleviate the personal and social consequences of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias and promote research into a cure and disease-altering treatment.
SOURCE Alzheimer Society of Ontario
SAFE Method Promotes Peace, Empowerment After Trauma
Princeton, NJ, August 31, 2022 — Surviving sexual assault, attempted suicide and an arranged marriage is one thing. Processing all of that pain and living a full life proved to be something entirely different for speaker and author Poonam Bhuchar.
“In the shadows of emotional pain, survival can take priority over healing,” Bhuchar said. “Lasting reverberations of traumatic experiences can cripple decision-making skills, creep into relationships and leave scars on the people you love.”
Eventually, Bhuchar’s emotional trauma also took a physical toll. She suffered two strokes and temporary paralysis before beginning her long journey toward authentic healing.
Today, she shares her powerful story through speaking engagements and her book, SAFE From the Pain: Out of the Darkness Into a Life That’s Free, Happy, and Good.
Part memoir, part self-help revelation, SAFE From the Pain pairs Bhuchar’s inspiring story with the SAFE Method, which aims to help readers process emotional pain in healthy, productive ways so they can lead more fulfilling personal and professional lives.
In SAFE From the Pain, readers will learn:
- The four-step SAFE Method for working through emotions and regaining control.
- The impact that stress from emotional pain has on every aspect of life — including the workplace.
- How to overcome a victim mindset and accept responsibility — because ownership leads to action.
- Three types of forgiveness for freedom from society’s expectations, cultural beliefs and self-judgment.
- Why embracing one’s journey is essential to happiness, a bigger life purpose and alignment with one’s true self.
“Peace and empowerment after trauma are possible when you embrace your pain as part of your story,” Bhuchar said. “You can’t move forward if you live in the past.”
About the Author
Poonam Bhuchar runs a boutique law firm, is a life coach, author and a speaker on overcoming trauma and emotional pain. Born and raised in London, she immigrated to the United States at 21 and experienced a multitude of painful challenges such as sexual assault, abuse, and the aftermath and cultural humiliation of divorce. Throughout her journey, she developed the SAFE Method to help others acknowledge, discuss, and grow from their emotional pain without stigma or judgement. Her book, SAFE From the Pain: Out of the Darkness Into a Life That’s Free, Happy, and Good, has won multiple awards in the self-help category, including a five-star review from Literary Titan.
For more information, please visit www.emotionallysafe.com, or connect with the author on Facebook (emotionally safe) and Instagram (emotionally_safe).
SAFE From the Pain: Out of the Darkness Into a Life That’s Free, Happy, and Good Publisher: RI Publishing
Grow Up Conference and Expo Brings New Experiences to Niagara Falls
Presented by ND Supplies, the largest cannabis cultivation conference offers a unique show experience with a new format, first-time exhibitions, and more
Niagara Falls, ON, Sept. 01, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Grow Up Conference and Expo (“Grow Up”) brings new experiences to the Niagara event which will provide educational and collaborative B2B events including unique sessions, networking opportunities, and more. Grow Up brings the cultivation industry together in Niagara Falls, ON from September 11-13th.
“What we are most proud of is that we bring the best growers in the world together.” says Randy Rowe, President of Grow Up Conference and Expo. “This gives our exhibitors and participating delegates the opportunity to interact with the largest group of growers in one location,” Rowe adds.
On September 11th, Grow Up will kick off with its exhibitor load-in and a few other ticketed and non-ticketed events including the Canadian Premiere of Frenchy Dreams of Hashish. The two-day conference will then begin on September 12th by bringing together the best minds of the cultivation industry.
Find more information on all the new activations happening at this year’s Grow Up below:
Speakers
Grow Up brings together thought leaders from the industry with over 40 sessions featuring over 80 speakers. Hot topics include: The Science of Hash, A Look at Sustainable Packaging, Quality Assurance for Micros, Approaches to Pests and Pathogens, and more. See the full list of speakers here: https://growupconference.com/niagara-falls/speakers/
Cannabis Science Symposium
The Cannabis Science Symposium is a new one-day event which is designed to showcase the latest research and development and cutting edge topics in the cannabis industry, Attendees will have the opportunity to hear top doctors and professors discuss advances in cultivation, nutrients, plant growth, and disease control.
Seed Exchange
Hosting its first ever seed exchange, Grow Up is bringing together coveted breeders and phenohunters. On Tuesday, September 13th, the seed exchange will include education around flower, seeds and extracts. All registered delegates will be gifted packages of feminized seeds, donated by 4Plants Canada, to swap with during the exchange, in addition to any seeds delegates bring themselves. This unique offering will allow breeders to exchange seeds live on the show floor.
Cannabis Cup
In the Boveda Consumption Lounge, the Grow Up Cannabis Cup will be bringing in some of the best flower and hash in Canada. The live flower judging will take place Sunday, September 11th and the hash judging will take place Monday, September 12th. With over 20 LP’s participating and over two dozen judges, this is a not to miss event. Winners will be announced at the Grow Up Awards Monday, September 12th.
The Grow Up onsite Consumption Lounge offers a great opportunity to connect with other delegates and will also provide professional education and sensory experiences through sampling.
Canadian Premiere of Frenchy Dreams of Hashish
The Canadian premiere of Frenchy Dreams of Hashish will screen on Sunday, September 11th. The documentary focuses on the Master Hashishin and Grow Up Hall of Fame inductee Frenchy Cannoli and a small group of Emerald Triangle cannabis farmers in Northern California. The group tries to reintroduce traditional hashish to the public, amplify their ethos of sustainable farming, and prove their dedication to quality sun-grown cannabis. The film’s screening will be followed by a Q&A with Kimberly Hooks (widow of Frenchy Cannoli).
About Grow Up Conference and Expo Grow Up Conference and Expo, an award winning cannabis event, is a privately-owned Canadian company since 2017 and has been hailed a top cannabis industry event in Canada, hosting events in Niagara Falls, ON, and Victoria, BC. With decades of experience creating nationally renowned high-profile events, trade summits and shows around the world, Grow Up is committed to bringing forward-thinkers, trailblazers and experts together. For more information, visit: growupconference.com.
About ND Supplies ND Supplies is a market-leading packaging supplier and manufacturing company that is at the top of the innovation curve within the Canadian cannabis industry. They focus on creating sustainable, child-safe packaging solutions designed to meet the Canadian regulatory framework and supply a proven, cost-effective, high-quality packaging system to licensed, reputable businesses that demand the highest form of compliance.
VABYSMO® (faricimab injection) receives positive CADTH recommendation for the treatment of Neovascular (wet) Age-related Macular Degeneration (nAMD) in adults
The CADTH reimbursement recommendation is the latest step towards access to VABYSMO® (faricimab injection) for approximately the 2.5 million Canadians living with nAMD.1
Provincial jurisdictions will make the final decision on public reimbursement.
MISSISSAUGA, ON, Sept. 1, 2022 /CNW/ - Hoffmann-La Roche Limited (Roche Canada) is pleased to announce that on August 30, 2022, the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH) Canadian Drug Expert Committee (CDEC) recommended VABYSMO® (faricimab injection) for public reimbursement. The recommendation is for the treatment of neovascular (wet) age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) in adults.2
"Clinical trials have demonstrated promising vision gains and durability signal with VABYSMO for patients suffering from nAMD," said Dr. Varun Chaudhary, Chief of Ophthalmology & Professor of Surgery at Hamilton Regional Eye Institute, McMaster University. "This positive recommendation from CADTH is a critical step forward for Canadians in our fight against this blinding disease."
VABYSMO provides a unique dual mode of action by targeting both VEG-F and Ang-2 proteins, two key drivers of vascular instability that have been associated with vision-threatening retinal conditions.3,4,5, This is the first treatment in Canada for nAMD that blocks both pathways.6,7,8,9 The CADTH recommendation acknowledges that VABYSMO can be given at an interval of up to every 16 weeks, which can help lessen treatment burden by extending the time between injections and appointments.2,10
"Regular treatment is key to preserving sight and maintaining the independence of people living with wet AMD," said Doug Earle, president and CEO, Fighting Blindness Canada. "It may be challenging to keep up with frequent appointments, especially for those living in remote or isolated communities, or requiring mobility assistance. These issues have further been exacerbated by COVID-19. With CADTH's recommendation, Fighting Blindness Canada encourages all provinces to give access to VABYSMO to offer the opportunity to reduce the burden of frequent injections and to provide meaningful treatment options for people living with wet AMD and their loved ones."
Roche Canada is pleased that the clinical evidence and benefit of VABYSMO have been recognized by CADTH for use in patients with nAMD and looks forward to partnering with the provinces and jurisdictions to help Canadians gain access to this new treatment for this indication. In addition, VABYSMO continues to undergo CADTH review for its other approved indication, for Diabetic Macular Edema (DME).
About Neovascular (wet) Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a condition that affects the macula, the part of the eye that provides sharp, central vision needed for activities like reading, driving, recognizing faces and seeing in colour,3 and is a leading cause of vision loss among Canadians, affecting approximately 2.5 million Canadians.4 Wet, or neovascular AMD (nAMD) is an advanced form of the disease that can cause rapid and irreversible vision loss if left untreated,5 and affects approximately 250,000 Canadians.4
Wet AMD is caused by growth of abnormal blood vessels, also referred to as choroidal neovascularization (CNV), into the macula. These vessels leak fluid and blood and cause scar tissue that destroys the central retina.11 If left untreated, this process results in a deterioration of sight over a period of months to years.12
About VABYSMO® (faricimab injection)
VABYSMO is a humanized bispecific immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1) antibody that acts through inhibition of both Ang-2 and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A). By inhibiting VEGF-A, faricimab suppresses endothelial cell proliferation, neovascularization and vascular permeability. By inhibiting Ang-2, faricimab is thought to increase vascular stability and desensitize blood vessels to the effects of VEGF-A. Ang-2 levels are increased in some patients with wet AMD and DME.6
About Roche
Roche is a global pioneer in pharmaceuticals and diagnostics focused on advancing science to improve people's lives. The combined strengths of pharmaceuticals and diagnostics, as well as growing capabilities in the area of data-driven medical insights, help Roche deliver truly personalized healthcare. Roche is the world's largest biotech company, with truly differentiated medicines in oncology, immunology, infectious diseases, ophthalmology, and diseases of the central nervous system. Roche is also the world leader in in vitro diagnostics and tissue-based cancer diagnostics, and a frontrunner in diabetes management.
Roche Canada was founded in 1931 and employs more than 1,800 people across the country through its Pharmaceuticals division in Mississauga, Ontario as well as its Diagnostics and Diabetes Care divisions in Laval, Quebec.
11 "Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration". American Macular Degeneration Foundation, Available at https://www.macular.org/wet-amd. Accessed on May 4, 2022
Hybrid sessions, COVID comfort zones and mental wellness themes resonate with fitness pros
Toronto, ON, Sep. 1, 2022-- For the first time in two years, the annual canfitpro Global Conference and Trade Show returned to a live format August 10-14, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Nearly 5,500 attendees, including 2,300 fitness professionals and 3,200 fitness enthusiasts took part in the five-day event at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre or joined online through live streamed and online sessions.
For 29 years, canfitpro has relied on revenue and reputation from this annual event. During the first two years of the pandemic, the conference was held online, ensuring canfitpro could still reach members and participants with professional development opportunities. The shift to online inspired a profitable event model that will remain part of canfitpro’s strategy to serve more members. Many unique and best practices have been adopted by other industry event operators.
Maureen ‘Mo’ Hagan, chief operating officer of canfitpro, said the 2022 live event far surpassed expectations, to support learning and social cohesion among fitness professionals and to inspire the fitness industry to come back stronger than ever.
“It was a leap of faith to commit to delivering a live conference and trade show, but we knew fitness professionals needed it this year because of the magic that happens with in-person connection. We also offered online sessions and were able to live stream many of the in-person presentations for a hybrid experience. With online and hybrid formats, delegates could be part of more sessions, and it meant we could reach more people with learning opportunities.”
In-person connection: Fitness professionals thrive on community and connection. For many people who attended the in-person conference and trade show, this was the first time they had seen their colleagues in more than three years. The energy level was high and extremely positive. Diva Richards, founder and president of Hard Work No Excuses LLC, presented for the first time at this year’s event and fell in love with the togetherness and community felt at this year’s show.
“This has been an absolutely mind-blowing experience. From the lectures, to the fitness seminars to the trade show floor, this is definitely on my list for ever and ever, amen!”
Hybrid and online sessions: The canfitpro Global Conference and Trade Show featured 90 online sessions and 22 live streamed hybrid sessions. Presenters adapted their content to be more interactive in person and to involve those joining online. By including an online option, canfitpro was able to reach 500 additional participants. Many of the participants who didn’t attend live this year say they were motivated to come in person next year.
Spotlighting mental wellness: Based on input from members, canfitpro event organizers recruited extra presenters to focus on mental health and wellness this year. This included the two keynote presenters, Olympian and mental health advocate Silken Laumann and sport psychologist and coach Dr. Ivan Joseph. Presenters focused on the importance of self-care, connecting with your purpose and nurturing confidence to power a comeback across the fitness industry.
Recognizing COVID comfort zones: Recognizing that every conference attendee might have a varying comfort level when it comes to COVID-19, canfitpro implemented a colour-coding system that allowed attendees to show their COVID comfort status on their pass. canfitpro also encouraged mask wearing and testing, and provided hand sanitizing stations throughout the venue.
“It’s so important to meet people where they are in their current comfort level with COVID-19. I was really impressed that the canfitpro team took the initiative to colour code name tags to show how each attendee wanted to be greeted at the conference. It was a small thing that went a long way to make social interactions more seamless and in-sync,” Richelle Lowry, Senior Director, People Experience, Learning & Communications, GoodLife Fitness.
Hagan and her team expect more people to return to the conference in-person next year as canfitpro marks its 30th anniversary. Event organizers plan to broadcast more hybrid sessions from the event.
“We intend to continue the hybrid model to reach fitness professionals wherever they are and to continue to bring the world’s top leaders, trainers and industry experts to our event. We’re also making the event content available online to be viewed and shared into thousands of communities worldwide. Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with world-class, practical content that will support them in their careers and drive the industry forward as we all come back together from the pandemic.”
For a closer look into the canfitpro 2022 Global Conference and Trade Show, check out this short event recap video.
Photography by Dawn Bowman
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New TVOkids Original Sunny's Quest showcases the stories of Black children across Canada
Premiering September 13, 2022, this new fall series from Apartment 11 Productions and TVOkids creates fun and inspiring cultural adventures for Canadian families
Toronto, ON, Sept. 01, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- TVOkids, the internationally celebrated children's media and digital learning organization, and Apartment 11 Productions, a leader in producing series that encourage kids to think big, are thrilled to announce the premiere of TVOkids Original Sunny's Quest, a new series that features first-person stories told by Black children from across Canada.
Premiering on TVOkids.com, YouTube and smart TV services on September 13, 2022, the 20 x 7-minute episode series will introduce viewers to 20 children from diverse backgrounds who share their hobbies, talents, heritage and dreams for the future.
“Sunny’s Quest is an exciting opportunity to spotlight Black children doing what they love most at home and in their communities,” says Kirsten Hurd, executive producer of TVOkids. “The series was inspired by the incredible stories about Indigenous children featured in Raven’s Quest, another TVOkids collaboration with Apartment 11 Productions that connected viewers with smart and curious kids we don’t see represented on screen enough.”
“We are thrilled to make a TV series produced, written and directed by Black Canadians about Black Canadian kids’ lives,” adds Jonathan Finkelstein, president and executive producer at Apartment 11 Productions.
“It is an honour to create opportunities and work with a BIPOC production team on a Canadian television series that authentically portrays Black Canadian stories,” says Sabine Daniel, producer at Apartment 11 Productions. “In Sunny's Quest, Afro-descendant children celebrate their culture and heritage, inspiring relevant discussions on the Black experience in Canada.”
TVOkids Original Sunny’s Quest features trailblazing children from cross-cultural communities. There is a young boy advocating for racial equality, a gymnast hoping to make it to the Olympics and an aspiring astronaut looking to launch an ambitious dream career. The series highlights how these young changemakers are paving the way for many generations in activism, athletics and creative arts. Families everywhere will enjoy learning about these children while exploring daily life in diverse communities across Canada.
In each episode, a child is paired with a notable Black Canadian inspirational figure who shares insight on how to thrive in today's environment. The public figures appearing this season include Woody Belfort, Philesha Chandler, Luigi "City" Fidelia, Tracie Melchor, Sekou Kaba, Dr. Alexandra Bastiany, Nam Kiwanuka (of TVO’s The Thread), Naomy Grand-Pierre, Osvaldo Jeanty, Vicki Joseph, Latoya Webley, Dr. Louise Edwards, Brian Quaye, Richard Adu-Bobie, Wendie Wilson, Elladj Baldé, Prosper Laguerre, Bruny Surin, Sabine Daniel and Shasta Averyhardt.
Watch TVOkids Original Sunny’s Quest on TVOkids.com, YouTube and smart TV services starting Tuesday, September 13, 2022. The series is also casting for its second season. Families can apply nowthrough the application form.
Information on series production Jonathan Finkelstein, the founder of Apartment 11 Productions, is the executive producer for the series, and Mindy Laxer is the co-executive producer. The series producer is Sabine Daniel. Kirsten Hurd is the executive producer for TVOkids. TVOkids Original Sunny's Quest is produced by Apartment 11 Productions in association with TVOKids and is made with the financial participation of the Canada Media Fund, Shaw Rocket Fund, the Canadian Film or Video Production Tax Credit and the Quebec Film and Television Tax Credit.
About Apartment 11 Productions Founded in 2000 and led by its President, Jonathan Finkelstein, Apartment 11 Productions consistently delivers quality, story-driven rating successes to its global broadcast partners. The Montreal-based creative hub has produced more than 300 hours of scripted and non-scripted programming, mostly for children’s and youth audiences. Apartment 11 collaborates with almost every major Canadian broadcast partner, including CBC, YTV, Bell Media, TVO, Radio-Canada, and TFO and international partners, including BBC, Nickelodeon, Discovery, ABC (Australia), and Cirque du Soleil. There are 150 countries airing shows produced by Apartment 11 Productions. Apartment 11 Productions has won a Peabody Award, multiple Japan Prize awards (including the Grand Prix), Youth Media Alliance Awards, Gemini/Canadian Screen Awards, a Viewers’ Choice Kidscreen Award and has also been nominated for two International Emmy Awards. For more information, please visit Apartment11.tv
About TVO Media Education Group TVO Media Education Group inspires learning that changes lives and enriches communities. Founded in 1970, we are a globally recognized digital learning organization that engages Ontarians of all ages with inclusive experiences and diverse perspectives. Through video, audio, games, courses, newsletters and articles, we’re investing in the transformative potential of education for everyone. Funded primarily by the Province of Ontario, TVO is a registered charity supported by thousands of sponsors and donors. For more information, visit TVO.me, TVO.org and TVOkids.com.
TVO streaming channels: Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Android, LG, Roku and Samsung.
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