NeuroCatch™ Platform Receives Health Canada Medical Device Licence for Brain Function Assessment
Objective brain function assessment system revolutionizes the ABCs of cognitive function Soon to be available to clinicians and researchers in Canada
SURREY, BC, March 28, 2019 /CNW/ - NeuroCatch Inc. has received a Health Canada medical device licence for Canada's first and only objective, rapid neuro-physiological brain function assessment system, through the measurement of event-related potentials (ERPs), that is easy-to-use, cost-effective, and readily accessible: the NeuroCatch™ Platform. NeuroCatch Inc. is a brain-focused health technology company committed to translating research innovations into real-world medical devices and applications.
A wholly owned subsidiary of HealthTech Connex, Inc. whose president and chief scientific officer is renowned neuroscientist Dr. Ryan D'Arcy, NeuroCatch Inc. created the NeuroCatch Platform as a scientific, evidence-based approach for the clinical utilization of ERPs, and an objective, rapid neuro-physiological brain function assessment system that is easy-to-use, cost-effective, and readily accessible to clinicians and researchers. It consists of a portable, all-in-one hardware and software system that captures electroencephalograph (EEG) data and automatically extracts critical ERP brainwave information and rapidly translates this information into an easy to use clinical report.
"NeuroCatch Inc. is proud to receive a Health Canada medical device licence for our objective brain function assessment system and bring this highly significant tool and medical resource directly to clinicians and researchers. This system is based on years of evidence-based science and research completed by our incredible team," says Kirk Fisher, CEO of NeuroCatch Inc. "Now clinicians and researchers have a readily deployable, rapid and highly accurate system that can help them make objective brain function assessments."
With the Health Canada Class II medical device license, NeuroCatch Inc. is poised to bring the NeuroCatch Platform to brain-focused clinicians and researchers throughout Canada, the first being the Surrey Neuroplasticity Clinic at the Health and Technology District.
"We are excited to be the first in Canada to offer the NeuroCatch Platform as a brain function assessment tool for our clients," says Sonia Brodie, Clinic Enterprise Manager at the Surrey Neuroplasticity Clinic. "As a neuro-rehabilitation therapy clinic focused on clients with neurological conditions, it is extremely valuable to have such a device that our therapists can easily use to objectively and accurately measure brain function."
How the NeuroCatch Platform works: The NeuroCatch Platform consists of EEG electrodes embedded in a mesh cap, which wirelessly interface with the custom software platform. The NeuroCatch software enables the user to setup a client for a scan: an approximately 6-min proprietary audio stimulus sequence that has been specifically designed to elicit desired brain responses.
The NeuroCatch Platform provides an objective neuro-physiological assessment using three key ERPs using a standard medical ABC format: Auditory Sensation (N100]); Basic Attention (P300); and Cognitive Processing (N400). The data is then output into a NeuroCatch Platform Report, which clinicians can use to assist them in evaluating their patients.
The NeuroCatch Platform is also currently being used for investigative research in several locations across Canada and the U.S., including the Mayo Clinic, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute and the Bruyère Research Institute.
For more information on the NeuroCatch Platform, visit www.NeuroCatch.com.
About the Surrey Neuroplasticity Clinic: The Surrey Neuroplasticity Clinic (SNC) is a neuro-rehabilitation clinic in Surrey, British Columbia, focusing on comprehensive therapies using advanced, non-invasive brain technologies to help treat people with neurological conditions. The clinical team consists of multidisciplinary therapists expertly trained with the latest, innovative technologies to support the brain's ability to heal, adapt, retrain and transform itself. The SNC is proud to be Western Canada's first clinic to have access to the cutting-edge PoNS Heuro Treatment. https://snpc.tech
About NeuroCatch Inc.: NeuroCatch Inc. is a neuro-health technology company focused on translating neuroscience research innovations into real-world medical devices and consumer products. Located within the Health and Technology District in Surrey, British Columbia, NeuroCatch Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of HealthTech Connex Inc. It's first medical device, the NeuroCatch Platform, is Canada's first and only objective, rapid neuro-physiological brain function assessment system that is easy-to-use, cost-effective and readily accessible.
The company's mission is to revolutionize the way the brain is measured by transforming groundbreaking research & development into commercial devices that can positively impact brain health around the world. www.NeuroCatch.com
SOURCE NeuroCatch Inc.
Medavie Health Services New Brunswick named as finalist in the 2019 PwC Canada Vision to Reality Awards
DARTMOUTH, NS, March 28, 2019 /CNW Telbec/ - Medavie Health Services New Brunswick (MHSNB) has been named as a category finalist in the 2019 PwC Canada Vision to Reality (V2R) Awards. The awards recognize the most innovative organizations in the country for their hard work and creativity, turning visions into reality.
In the Accelerator category, MHSNB is recognized for launching an integrated health care system with the Government of New Brunswick in January 2018. MHSNB has brought together the New Brunswick Extra-Mural Program (EMP) and Ambulance New Brunswick (ANB) into a single public service entity that is enabling both services to reach their full potential and build capacity within New Brunswick's primary health care setting. This integrated approach is the first of its kind in Canada, working to shift delivery of care from hospitals into patients' homes and communities, where they are healthiest and happiest.
"Medavie Health Services New Brunswick is honoured to be recognized by PwC Canada as a Vision to Reality Award finalist," said Richard Losier, President of MHSNB. "We need to think differently about how we deliver health care. We need to provide care that serves our patients – our clients – with better outcomes and in the way they want. We strongly believe our approach to an integrated health care system will improve the lives of New Brunswickers and make a difference for patients and their families, health care providers and New Brunswick's overall health system. It's also a model of health care that has the potential to make a significant difference in the lives of many more Canadians as other provinces take note and consider a similar approach."
The PwC Canada V2R Awards recognize Canadian organizations and their innovative accomplishments in four categories, defined by revenue levels. The awards are open to any Canadian-controlled, headquartered or organization with operations in Canada (e.g. publicly held, privately held or public sector with management team and activities related to the innovation located solely in Canada) able to demonstrate their innovations within their category. The entries are then judged by an independent panel of industry and innovation experts who review and rate each applicant's innovation description.
"We're thrilled to recognize our V2R Awards finalists who represent innovators of all sizes and industries. Selected by the independent panel of judges, the finalists demonstrate that innovation is thriving across every region in Canada," said Chris Dulny, Chief Innovation Officer, PwC Canada. "The Awards celebrate some of the country's best innovators and bring together a network of leaders to collaborate and share ideas. Ultimately, this type of collaboration helps make Canada a more competitive place for innovation and we're proud to be a part of that."
PwC Canada will be announcing the V2R Awards winners during an awards ceremony to be held May 9th in Toronto.
About Medavie Health Services New Brunswick Medavie Health Services New Brunswick is the subsidiary of Medavie Health Services responsible for the optimal operation and management of Ambulance New Brunswick and the Extra-Mural program, an integrated, service-led primary health care organization.
Medavie Health Services is part of Medavie, a health services organization. Together with Medavie Blue Cross, we are committed to providing innovative solutions that will improve the wellbeing of Canadians.
SOURCE Medavie Blue Cross
Training Feel Impossible? 4 Common Causes of Foot Pain in Runners
Running and foot pain often go hand in hand, but it doesn’t necessarily have to be that way. By knowing some of the most common causes of foot pain in runners, you can take action to protect your feet better and ensure more comfort while running. Here are four of the main causes of foot pain that often affect runners.
Ill-Fitting Shoes
Shoes that are of the wrong size can wreak havoc on your feet and cause persistent pain. Shoes that are too small can make the feet more confined and susceptible to injury while footwear that’s too big can rub on the heels and other areas of the feet while running and leave blisters, calluses, and lesions. It’s also important to have shoes that are fitted to provide enough support in the arches and other areas of the feet that running actively engages.
Stress Fractures
The excessive pounding on the bones from running may cause stress fractures to form in the feet. As Active.comexplains, stress fractures are often hard to diagnose because they tend to progress slowly over time and don’t always show up clearly on X-rays. If you happen to get a stress fracture, the best thing to do is to take time off from running and other athletic activities that result in high impact on your feet until the fracture heals.
Plantar Fasciitis
The first sign of this condition is usually intense pain felt at the bottom of the feet. According to WebMD, plantar fasciitis results when the fibrous tissue on the bottom of your feet known as the fascia is stretched too much and forms small tears. Causes of plantar fasciitis may range from ill-fitting shoes to training too aggressively. Treating the root cause usually resolves plantar fasciitis. Orthotics and inserts that are worn inside shoes are sometimes prescribed to help ease pain and facilitate healing.
Tendonitis
One of the main tendon’s susceptible to inflammation while running is the posterior tibial tendon, which helps to support arches. In addition to pain at the bottom of your feet, you may experience symptoms like swelling and throbbing when tendonitis is present. A foot doctor or physical therapist can show you stretches and exercises to treat tendonitis. Icing your feet regularly can also be effective in reducing inflammation.
Finding the source of your foot pain and implementing the right solution can help keep you running longer with less pain. Consider scheduling an appointment with a podiatrist, who can diagnose the cause of your foot pain and administer treatment to ease your suffering.
Ready-to-use most cost-efficient and effective way to counter hospital-acquired infections: Clorox® Professional Products Canada
TORONTO, March 27, 2019 /CNW/ - NYSE: CLX, NYSE: CLX.B - When it comes to fighting hospital-acquired infections (HAIs), the efficiency and efficacy of ready-to-use disinfectants is unparalleled. Lower priced dilutables may be attractive but research has shown1 that price tag could bear a higher cost when it comes to cross-contamination, quality control issues and low compliance.
Ready-to-use products like Clorox Healthcare® Hydrogen Peroxide Cleaner Disinfectant Wipes offer a consistent approach to combatting HAIs.
"In Spring, the hectic flu season may be behind us but the germs still stick around on surfaces," explains Barley Chironda, Infection Control Specialist at Clorox Professional. "You need to ensure you're using effective products and ready-to-use products are a sure way of knowing you have the right concentration – you're eliminating the chances of error."
Using products that have consistent dilution is vital, as human error can lead to quality control issues1. Those errors can have serious consequences, not just financial but fatal repercussions as well.
According to a report by Canada's Chief Public Health Officer, more than 200,000 patients get infections every year while receiving healthcare in Canada, and more than 8,000 die as a result.2 Treatment has proven to be more costly than prevention, totalling an estimated $129 million in 2010 alone.3
"Hospitals and health care facilities are high-risk areas," says Chironda. "It's is important to ensure a safe patient environment."
And the ability to save time, avoid cross-contamination, and ensure disinfectants are the proper saturation and concentration every time helps to offset the growing threat of HAIs, an issue the environmental service, administrative team and clinical teams can't afford to overlook.
While ready-to-use wipes like Clorox Healthcare® Hydrogen Peroxide Cleaner Disinfectant Wipes can be disposed of safely after use, reusable cotton and microfiber towels used alongside dilutables provide a safe-haven for microorganisms to linger4.
Ready-to-use has also proven more time-efficient. A study1 found environmental services staff and employees spent 21 per cent less time per patient room when utilizing ready-to-use products, cost savings that equated to $38.58 per employee per day.
It adds up, says Chironda.
"I often hear cost as a barrier to implementing ready-to-use products in hospitals," he says. "But both personal experience and studies have shown that the benefits of guaranteed concentration, improved safety, and ease of use, is well worth the cost."
1. Wiemken, T. L. et al. The Value of Ready-to-Use Disinfectant Wipes: Compliance, Employee Time, and Costs. Am. J. Infect. Control 2014, 42, 329–330. 2. Government of Canada. The Chief Public Health Officer's Report on the State of Public Health in Canada 2013 – Healthcare-associated infections – Due diligence. 2013. https://bit.ly/2AVgHs4. Accessed September 28, 2018. 3. Canadian Patient Safety Institute. Healthcare-Associated Infections. https://bit.ly/2ecb77j. 4. Sifuentes, L. Y. et al. Microbial Contamination of Hospital Reusable Cleaning Towels. Am. J. Infect. Control. 2013, 41, 912–915
Testosterone For Women, Estrogen For Men? Wrong Levels Bring Problems
By Don Colbert, M.D.
You don’t normally think of women needing testosterone and men needing estrogen. But when those levels drop for women and men, respectively, or are way out of balance, a wide range of symptoms may be suffered.
Fortunately, there are ways to correct those levels and restore health.
Ladies first.
Testosterone is considered the manly hormone, yet few women know that they have quite a bit of it in their bodies, primarily when they are young. In their 20s and 30s, their testosterone is in the normal range, but after 40 is when we start to see the decline in levels.
There are numerous factors that push testosterone levels lower – menopause, medications, stress, aging, removal of ovaries, and more. And with that drop, myriad problems can occur. Blood work is needed to confirm suspicions, but persistent symptoms of low testosterone in women are hard to argue away. Among those symptoms are aching joints, depression, inability to sleep, lack of sex drive, migraines, and weight gain.
But the great news is, it’s fixable.
The hormone health zone for testosterone in women
The first hormone women need to optimize is testosterone. It may sound a little strange to recommend testosterone therapy for women, but with it they can benefit enormously. Depression and anxiety usually lift. They can slow or sometimes reverse cellulite, lose weight (especially belly fat), tighten skin, restore libido, improve memory, strengthen the heart, and boost energy levels and stamina.
The benefits of boosting testosterone go further; low testosterone is linked to an increased risk of diabetes, high cholesterol, hardening of the arteries, and weak bones. Low testosterone levels give women many of the symptoms associated with hypothyroidism, which serves as another strong motivator for women to keep their testosterone levels up.
Sadly, most doctors are taught to prescribe only low doses of estradiol (in pill format, which is not good) and no testosterone whatsoever. In fact, doctors usually choose not to address hormone issues at all. They will tell you “normal ranges,” and if you happen to be low, they will usually prescribe you a medication for the symptoms. But that will never get your health back.
What your body needs is bioidentical hormone therapy. You may need to find another doctor, someone who will treat your low-testosterone symptoms with bioidentical testosterone.
I have found boosting testosterone levels with pellets to be effective and efficient. They raise levels quickly, and you don’t need to come back for another treatment for three to four months, and sometimes six months. Testosterone injections are the next-best method if pellets are too pricey, followed by testosterone creams.
I suggest women in their 40s start monitoring their testosterone levels. The time to start optimizing them is when the hormone levels go below 50-60 percent of upper range or when symptoms develop. When your testosterone levels are optimized, life is great!
Now for you men
Yes guys, it’s true: Even men need estrogen. There’s just a delicate balance that needs to be understood.
Estrogen is one of those things that is good for you in the proper amounts but bad if you have too much or too little of it. Just the right amount of estradiol is good for bone strength, sperm count, cholesterol metabolism, healthy libido, and clear thinking, just to name a few of the known values of estrogen in men.
Usually, however, it is too much estrogen in men that is much more common. This occurs when testosterone levels decrease due to aging, obesity, lifestyle, a lack of exercise, stress, endocrine disruptors, and so on. Too much estrogen has been found to promote abnormal clot formation or blood clots, and excessive estrogen levels may also increase the risk of stroke.
A healthy man usually needs to maintain at least a 10-to-1 ratio of testosterone to estrogen. When the ratio is far below 10-to-1, estrogen levels are too high, and that brings with it a host of ailments. Among the symptoms I’ve seen in men who have too much estrogen in their bodies are brain fog, blood clots, gynecomastia (man boobs), lack of erections, lack of sex drive, and low sperm counts.
There’s also a higher risk for prostate cancer and heart disease when estrogen (estradiol) levels in men are too high.
Too little estrogen, and you also have a lack of sexual interest, few erections, and no libido. It’s also not healthy for the brain to have super-low estrogen levels, nor is brain fog a symptom that anyone enjoys.
The hormone health zone for estrogen in men
Optimizing estrogen levels in men usually coincides with their testosterone levels. They are linked; raise testosterone, and estrogen usually rises; lower testosterone, and estrogen usually lowers. Remember, the goal is for at least a 10-to-1 ratio.
When men start using testosterone cream, shots, or pellets, some of the testosterone aromatizes, or converts, to estrogen. Some men have excessive aromatization, especially older men and men who are obese. To stay in the estradiol hormone health zone, men will need to take a hormone-regulating supplement called DIM (Diindolylmethane), 150 mg twice a day. It is the safest way to lower estrogen without the fear of going too low.
For men who have never had their estrogen levels checked and believe they might have the symptoms of high or low estrogen, ask for blood work that gives you your estradiol level. Then you and your doctor will know what to do to treat it. Estrogen levels are usually pretty easy to treat in men.
It may be surprising that men need to watch their estrogen levels, but it’s one of those things that they must be aware of. When we were learning to drive, we were all taught to watch for the “blind spots.” Those spots aren’t dangerous in and of themselves. But when you need to take action, the blind spots are suddenly very important.
Don Colbert, M.D. (www.drcolbert.com), is the author of Dr. Colbert's Hormone Health Zone. He has been a board-certified family practice doctor for more than 25 years and has offices in Orlando, Fla., and Dallas. The author of over 40 books, he wrote two New York Times best-sellers – The Seven Pillars of Health and Dr. Colbert’s “I Can Do This” Diet – has sold more than 10 million books and treated 50,000-plus patients. Dr. Colbert is a frequent show guest of Christian leaders Joyce Meyer, John Hagee, and Kenneth Copeland and has been featured on The Dr. Oz Show, Fox News, ABC World News Tonight, and in periodicals such as Newsweek and Reader’s Digest.
Scotiabank Healthcare+ Physician Banking Program Offers Unique Solutions for Canadian Physicians at Every Stage of Their Career
TORONTO, March 27, 2019 /CNW/ - Scotiabank today announced Scotiabank Healthcare+ Physician Banking Program ("the Program"), a robust suite of banking services tailored to Canadian physicians at every stage of their careers. Developed in collaboration with MD Financial Management ("MD"), the only national financial services firm exclusively dedicated to the financial well-being of Canada's physicians and their families, the program will contribute to the well-being of physicians by helping to provide financial peace of mind.
"Scotiabank appreciates the unique financial demands placed on physicians in their personal and professional lives," said Glen Gowland, Executive Vice President and Head of Global Wealth Management at Scotiabank. "We've built the Scotiabank Healthcare+ Physician Banking Program to meet those demands, with tailored financial solutions to help physicians at any stage in their career—whether they've just begun studies or are starting up or winding down their practice—wherever they study or practise in Canada."
The Scotiabank Healthcare+ Physician Banking Program leverages Scotiabank's wide range of products, services and expertise to create solutions that meet the varied financial considerations of students, residents, and practicing and retired physicians. Medical students, for example, will benefit from education financing with flexible, competitive repayment terms and pricing. Practicing physicians will be able to take advantage of a range of exclusive benefits that support them in building and managing their business. Retiring physicians, meanwhile, will be able to access customized investment opportunities to help enable their lifestyle after their career has ended.
The Program is the perfect complement to the comprehensive, physician-centric financial management services already available—and honed over the last five decades—at MD. Physicians who wish to do so can also take advantage of MD's highly talented roster of wealth management advisors and portfolio managers; MD's self-directed services (MD Direct Trade™); and MD's autonomous investor services (MD ExO Direct®).
"Together, through the Scotiabank Healthcare+ Physician Banking Program, MD clients can truly access all the financial solutions they need through one comprehensive offering and one trusted advisor," said Brian Peters, President and CEO of MD. "Scotiabank and MD's proud history of 237 years of combined experience is the solid foundation to help our clients achieve their goals."
Physicians and physicians in training who are interested in learning more about the Scotiabank Healthcare+ Physician Banking Program can visit www.scotiabankhealthcareplus.com
FURTHER BACKGROUND
Programs Tailored for Medical Students, Residents, and Practicing and Retired Physicians
Scotiabank has created specific plans to provide banking that grows with physicians at every stage of their medical career.
Early Career: For many medical students and residents, debt is a major concern. More than 83 per cent of Canadian medical graduates report debt related to their medical education, with an average debt load of more than $160,000, according to the Association of Faculties of Medicine of Canada.1
Studies also show that debt among some medical students and graduates is directly related to higher levels of burnout, preventing them from learning and performing at the highest level.2
Scotiabank has developed a plan that offers all early career physicians financial peace of mind and lets them focus on what matters most — their education and profession.
The Scotia Professional® Student Plan includes:
Education financing with flexible, competitive repayment terms and pricing.
A comprehensive personal banking package with fee savings and rewards.
Access to preferred banking solutions with industry-leading pricing, and no annual reviews or re-applications.
Practicing Physicians: For practicing physicians, Scotiabank has created a targeted plan that helps them grow and manage their practice while taking care of themselves and their loved ones.
In addition to the support of a dedicated advisor, physicians have access to a national team of Healthcare & Professional Specialists, who provide advice and access to specialized products and services tailored to physicians.
Support includes:
A comprehensive personal banking package with access to a team of advisors who understand the unique and specialized needs of medical professionals throughout their career cycle.
Competitive rates on lending products, with bonus rates on savings and term deposit products.
Premium credit cards for personal and business needs.
Retired Physicians: For physicians approaching or beginning retirement, the Scotiabank Healthcare+ Physician Banking Program focuses more on Private Banking3 and investment opportunities that make it easier for physicians to enjoy their retirement.
In addition to a comprehensive personal banking package, retired physicians can benefit from:
Access to the Total Wealth Credit SolutionTM.
Transactional banking support.
A leading-edge concierge and travel management service.
A customized line of credit that lets them take advantage of investment opportunities whenever they arise.
Commitment to the physician community: Scotiabank continues to reinforce its ongoing commitment to the well-being of Canada's physician community, with close to $50 million contributed to the enhancement of health in Canada over the last four years—including the recently announced $1.6 million contribution for Well Doc Alberta in collaboration with MD and the Canadian Medical Association—and, now, with the launch of Scotiabank Healthcare+.
About Scotiabank
Scotiabank is Canada's international bank and a leading financial services provider in the Americas. We are dedicated to helping our more than 25 million customers become better off through a broad range of advice, products and services, including personal and commercial banking, wealth management and private banking, corporate and investment banking, and capital markets. With a team of more than 98,000 employees4 and assets of over $1 trillion (as at January 31, 2019), Scotiabank trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: BNS) and New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: BNS). For more information, please visit www.scotiabank.com and follow us on Twitter @ScotiabankViews.
About MD Financial Management Inc.
With 50 years of physician-focused experience, MD has one main goal: to help Canada's physicians achieve financial well-being. MD has more than $49 billion in assets under administration and is dedicated to serving Canada's physicians and their families. MD provides financial products and services, the MD Family of Funds and investment counselling services through the MD Group of Companies. For a detailed list of these companies, visit md.ca.
______________________________________ 1 "Future MD Canada," Association of Faculties of Medicine of Canada, https://afmc.ca/sites/default/files/qa/Q3c.pdf 2 "Medical student debt and major life choices other than specialty," Nov. 11, 2014 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4229497/ 3 For clients with a minimum of $1 million in investable assets. 4 Employees are reported on a full-time equivalent basis.
SOURCE Scotiabank
Carlson is a Three-Time Winner of the #1 Rated Omega-3 Products Award
Arlington Heights, Ill. (March 26, 2019) – Carlson recently received the #1 Rated Omega-3 Products Award from consumerlab.com, making them a three-time winner of the prestigious award. Results are based on the 2019 consumerlab.com Survey of Supplement Users, which included nearly 11,000 participants. The survey offers consumers an opportunity to rate leading nutritional supplement brands across a variety of categories.
“We were honored to receive the #1 Rated Omega-3 Products Award from Consumer Lab for a third time,” said Carlson President Carilyn Anderson. “We take great care to source our products sustainably and responsibly – and to produce the best-tasting, highest-quality fish oils. We’re very grateful to be recognized for our efforts.”
To ensure maximum freshness, Carlson omega-3 fish oils are closely managed from sea to store. Carlson sources the highest quality, deep, cold-water fish using traditional, sustainable methods. They then go to great lengths to ensure their fish oils are pure and protected against oxidation. Carlson omega-3s are bottled or encapsulated with a touch of antioxidants and are tested by an FDA-registered laboratory for freshness, potency, and purity.
Consumerlab.com is a leading provider of independent test results and information to help consumers and healthcare professionals identify the best quality health and nutrition products. The company is privately held and has no ownership from or interest in companies that manufacture, distribute, or sell consumer products.
About Carlson Carlson began in 1965 as one woman’s mission to improve the health of families by creating nutritional supplements with high-quality ingredients. Susan Carlson’s father suffered from heart issues but found relief after taking natural-source vitamin E. Inspired by this discovery and her background as a pharmacist, Susan started Carlson out of her small Chicago apartment with a single vitamin E formula. Her product line quickly expanded. In the early 1980s, Carlson helped launch the omega-3 marketing in North America. Today, the commitment to helping families live a healthier lifestyle continues, as Susan’s daughters President Carilyn Anderson and Vice President Kirsten Carlson continue the Carlson family’s mission to produce high-quality nutritional supplements.
If you would rather not receive future communications from Carlson Labs, let us know by clicking here. Carlson Labs, 600 W University Dr, Arlington Heights, IL 60004 United States
Speed Rack Canada Returns for a Fourth Season of Celebrating the Nation’s Women Behind the Bar
The all-female speed bartending competition that raises money for breast cancer research will host the national finals of their fourth Canadian competition season in Montreal on Monday, May 13th CANADA (March 2019) -- Cocktails, competition, camaraderie - Speed Rack is back for its fourth spirited swing around Canada, as part of the organization’s eighth global competition season. The all-female speed-bartending competition has visited five Canadian cities during preliminary rounds this year, whittling down the country’s new group of top female mixologists - a uniquely impressive range of first-year bartenders to decorated mixologists and longtime bar managers - who will soon go head-to-head for the coveted title of Miss Speed Rack Canada 2019 at Les Foufounes Électriques in Montreal on May 13th. As always, the competition in Speed Rack Canada Season 4 promises to be fierce, but so does the fundraising. Co-founders Lynnette Marrero and Ivy Mix started Speed Rack in the U.S. in 2011 as a way to give back to the bar community while simultaneously providing a platform for up-and coming female bartenders. To date, Speed Rack has raised over $850,000 worldwide for breast cancer prevention, treatment and awareness. This year’s mission in Canada is no different with 100% of ticket sales being donated to Speed Rack Canada’s official charity partners, The Breast Cancer Support Fund and Breast Cancer Action Quebec. “We’re very passionate about the number of different charities that we support in cities across the world as we continue to grow, and are excited to be so close to our longtime goal of $1 million raised for charity” states Speed Rack co-founder, Lynnette Marrero. “The competition is always exciting, and we love seeing the hard work and creativity behind the bar from the Speed Rack competitors every year, but at the end of the day, our mission is to spread awareness and support research to ultimately end this disease that so many of us have been touched by in one way or another.” The fundraising is already off to a strong start with over $26,000 raised so far this season, thanks to a combined effort of proceeds from the five preliminary regional finals in Vancouver (Feb 24), Toronto (Feb 25), Calgary (March 3), Montreal (March 4), and Halifax (March 11), as well as donations from the esteemed national non-profit organization, Restaurants Canada, who partnered with Speed Rack Canada to showcase the Toronto preliminary finals during a sold-out “Industry Night Out” event on February 25th.Last year’s Speed Rack global season saw the organization’s return to Canada for a third year, as well as their much anticipated debut first season in Australia, and expansion to multiple corners of the globe. “Going into our eighth year of Speed Rack, we’re so excited to continue growing this community across the globe.” says Speed Rack co-founder, Ivy Mix. “What started out as an idea to give female bartenders a space to thrive in a male-dominated industry, has grown into this incredible network where women from around the world are able to connect and support each other both in and out of the industry, and that’s something we’re really proud to be a part of.” Every year, the community and sense of community expands - but what’s a little competition between friends? Regional winners from each preliminary round will go head-to-head during the national finals, making classic cocktails in timed heats as a panel of industry-experts judge their final execution. The star-studded cast of judges this season have included a variety of industry experts and drink writers, including Michael Hopper (Owner of Highwayman), Kate Boushel (Beverage Director at Barocco Group) and the renowned spirits expert and author, Elayne Duff who judged the Toronto preliminary competition. Industry heavyweights Kaitlyn Stewart (Diageo World Class Global Champion 2017) & Kelsey Ramage (Co-Founder of Trash Tiki) are both signed on to judge the national finals in May. Tickets for upcoming events can be procured on Speed Rack’s Website: http://events.speed-rack.com/ca/season-4. You can also follow the organization @speed_rack on Instagram and Twitter and at on Facebook at facebook.com/speedrackinfo. #backtherackABOUT SPEED RACK:Speed Rack was created and produced by nationally acclaimed bartenders and industry ambassadors, Lynnette Marrero and Ivy Mix. The first nationwide competition was designed to highlight up-and-coming women in the cocktail industry, and give back to those impacted by breast cancer, Speed Rack taps top female bartenders in leading cocktail markets and puts them head to head in timed challenges – all for the purpose of raising funds for breast cancer charities. To date, Speed Rack has raised more than $850,000 for charities supporting breast cancer research. ABOUT THE BREAST CANCER SUPPORT FUND The Breast Cancer Support Fund is a national charity managed by a volunteer board and an advisory team. Their goal is to be a change-maker among breast cancer organizations by raising awareness about the financial crisis that too often accompanies a breast cancer diagnosis and, with the support of individuals and organizations, bridge that gap between the financial reality faced by patients and the limited financial resources available. ABOUT BREAST CANCER ACTION QUEBECBreast Cancer Action Quebec is a non-profit advocacy group directed by women who have been sensitized to the trauma of breast cancer and who are committed to prevention and the reduction of the incidence of this disease. Breast Cancer Action Quebec is the only independent breast cancer organization in Canada whose mission is to work for the prevention of breast cancer and the elimination of environmental toxicants linked to the disease. ABOUT RESTAURANTS CANADA:Restaurants Canada is a growing community of 30,000 foodservice businesses, including restaurants, bars, caterers, institutions and suppliers. We connect our members from coast to coast, through services, research and advocacy for a strong and vibrant restaurant industry. Canada’s restaurant industry directly employs 1.2 million Canadians and serves 18 million customers every day. REGIONAL FINALISTS: Vancouver: Carolyn Yu - Gotham Steakhouse, BartenderAmber Bruce - Keefer Bar, Bar Manager Toronto:Colie Ehrenworth - Mahjong Bar, BartenderMarta S. - Chantecler, BartenderMonique Godinho - The Cloak Bar, BartenderAdriana Cavarra - Mother Tongue, Bartender Alberta:Christine Verdone - Milk Tiger Lounge, BartenderMaya Bartha - Bartender Quebec:Daphnee Vary - Foxy, BartenderKate Boushel - Barocco Group, Beverage DirectorTep Yith - La Distillerie, BartenderEmilie Loiselle - Cloakroom Bar, Bartender Halifax:Ellie Rideout - The Ostrich Club, BartenderMackenzie Bouchard - Middle Spoon, Bartender SPONSORS: Platinum:Lot 40 100% RyeKettle One VodkaBulleit Bourbon Bacardi Rum Johnnie Walker Black Label Jack Daniels No.7 Gold: Courvoisier CognacMartini Herradura Tequila Tequila Tromba Ungava Gin Tanqueray Gin Local:Bittered Sling BittersAlambika
Chickapea Launches High-Protein Pasta with Loblaw Stores Countrywide
COLLINGWOOD, ON (March 26, 2019) – Chickapea is thrilled to announce the launch of its high-protein pasta line into Loblaw Market stores across Canada.
Now the leading brand of pulse-based pasta in the country, Chickapea continues to make good on its mission to create good for the world through nutritious, organic meal options and impactful social contributions.
The brand’s listing with more than 330 Loblaw stores, which include Loblaws, Fortinos, Zehrs, Independent, Atlantic Superstore and more, puts Chickapea’s chickpea lentil pasta on shelves at well over 3,000 locations across North America.
“Since launching Chickapea in 2016, we have seen dramatic and exciting growth year-over-year,” said Chickapea Founder and CEO Shelby Taylor. “This expanded listing in Loblaw stores
will help us meet market demand and make it more convenient for our fans, and anyone looking for healthy versions of the foods they love, to find and enjoy our products.”
Although the business has experienced rapid growth, Taylor has ensured its positive impact every step of the way. As both a Certified Women’s Business Enterprise and Certified B Corporation, Chickapea meets the highest, measurable standards of environmental and social responsibility. The company’s vision of Good with Every Bite includes donating 3 cents from the sale of every product to feed nutritious meals to children in need, in partnership with WE Charity’s School Nutrition Program.
Chickapea’s launch with Canada’s largest supermarket chain highlights the growth and acceptance of plant-based foods and plant-based proteins in the Canadian marketplace. According to a Nielson’s study, plant-based nutrition and diet saw a 15% sales increase in 2018 which is sprouting growth for retailers.
Constantly innovating to meet the growing healthy needs of consumers, Chickapea will also be
launching spaghetti and linguini, as well as a creamy Vegan Mac in the coming weeks.
Chickapea is a nutrient-dense, high protein pasta made with only two ingredients, organic chickpeas and lentils. It is a great option for those looking for a more nutritious alternative to the comfort food they already know and love. With great taste and texture, Chickapea is a favourite for a quick, easy and nutritious meal. It’s organic, certified gluten-free, non-GMO, vegan and kosher.
Great-West Life and Dr. Joti Samra launch new tool for leaders to promote psychologically safe workplaces
WINNIPEG, March 26, 2019 /CNW/ - The Great-West Life Centre for Mental Health in the Workplace and Dr. Joti Samra announced the launch of the Psychologically Safe Leader Assessment (PSLA), a free, online tool helping assess leadership strategies related to psychological health and safety.
The assessment was developed by a team of Canadian researchers led by Dr. Joti Samra, R. Psych. – an innovator in the area of psychological health and safety in the workplace, and principal and founder of MyWorkplaceHealth.com.
The PSLA can help create a psychologically safe workplace where employees can thrive. Through the tool, leaders obtain feedback on the extent to which they implement effective strategies in five key areas:
Communication and collaboration;
Social intelligence;
Problem solving and conflict management;
Security and safety; and
Fairness and equality.
"The PSLA draws on evidence showing that employees who work for psychologically safe leaders are more likely to report higher job satisfaction and engagement, better workplace relationships, and better psychological well-being," said Dr. Samra.
"The National Standard of Canada for Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace acknowledges the need for organizations to ensure that those in leadership roles have the training and skills to support psychological safety, and we wanted to find a way for employers and leaders to meet this requirement," said Mary Ann Baynton, Program Director for The Great-West Life Centre for Mental Health in the Workplace. "We look forward to continue building healthier workplaces through resources like the PSLA."
With the PSLA, for the first time leaders can assess the extent to which their strategies align with the National Standard of Canada for Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace. Results from the PSLA can be supplemented by the Psychological Safe Leader Assessment: Employee Feedback (PSLA-E), allowing leaders to receive feedback from their direct reports.
To learn more about the PSLA and other resources offered by the Great-West Life Centre for Mental Health in the Workplace, visit workplacestrategiesformentalhealth.com/psla.
About the Great-West Life Centre for Mental Health in the Workplace Established in 2007, the Great-West Life Centre for Mental Health in the Workplace is a leading source of practical ideas, tools and resources designed to help with the prevention, intervention and management of workplace mental health issues. Around the world, Canada is recognized as an international leader in workplace mental health. Many individuals and organizations have contributed to this distinction and it has been a privilege for the Centre to have played a part in many of their important initiatives. For more information, visit the Centre's website at workplacestrategiesformentalhealth.com.
About The Great-West Life Assurance Company Great-West Life is a leading Canadian insurer, focused on improving the financial, physical and mental well-being of Canadians. For more than 125 years, our customers across Canada have trusted us to provide for their financial security needs and deliver on the promises we have made. Together with our subsidiaries London Life and Canada Life, we serve the financial security needs of 13 million people across Canada. To learn more, visit greatwestlife.com.
SOURCE The Great-West Life Assurance Company
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