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Healthy Directions’ Bestselling Omega Q Plus® Formulas Shown to Have Impressive Heart Health, Energy Benefits


Omega Q Plus Max supplement

Omega Q Plus MAX

More than 9 out of 10 (94%) users would recommend Dr. Sinatra’s Omega Q Plus products.

Healthy Directions LLC recently conducted a consumer study showing that buyers of its Omega Q Plus® line of supplements report improvements in heart health checkups, more energy, feeling more active, and improvements in cholesterol levels since they started taking an Omega Q Plus product.

Formulated by integrative cardiologist Dr. Stephen Sinatra, the Omega Q Plus supplements combine efficacious doses of Omega-3s, Coenzyme Q10, L-Carnitine, Chromium and B vitamins to support healthy aging, overall heart health, healthy blood pressure and cholesterol, and endothelial health. The newest and fastest-selling product in Dr. Sinatra’s line, Omega Q Plus® MAX, also includes highly bioavailable turmeric for added inflammatory support.

“This study was important for us to fully understand how well our products are working for real customers. Our formulas are backed by extensive science, but nothing beats real, tangible results,” said Ben Teicher, President of Healthy Directions. “Knowing that Omega Q Plus supplements are helping customers feel better—and get results their own doctors can measure—is incredible. That’s why we do what we do.”

This study, conducted with 143 active users, showed that:


  • More than 8 out of 10 (81%) users reported having a better heart health check-up since taking Omega Q Plus
  • More than 7 out of 10 (71%) users reported having more energy
  • 7 out of 10 (70%) users reported feeling more active
  • More than 9 out of 10 (92%) users who have taken fish oil report that their Omega Q Plus product has more benefits than fish oil alone
  • Nearly 9 out of 10 (88%) users who have taken CoQ10 report that their Omega Q Plus product has more benefits than CoQ10 alone
  • 9 out of 10 (90%) users consider their Omega Q Plus product to be one of the most important supplements they take
  • More than 9 out of 10 (94%) users would recommend Dr. Sinatra’s Omega Q Plus products to others with similar health concerns

All Omega Q Plus products have also earned certification from NSF International, a global public health organization. NSF certification helps consumers identify products that have been independently tested and certified to meet rigorous standards for quality, safety and label claims.

Omega Q Plus MAX has broken sales records in its first year on the market, and is now available at GNC stores nationwide, as well as through the Healthy Directions and Dr. Stephen Sinatra catalogs and websites (http://www.healthydirections.com and http://www.drsinatra.com).

About Healthy Directions: Healthy Directions LLC, a subsidiary of Adaptive Health LLC, is a leading health publisher and direct-to-consumer retailer of doctor-formulated nutritional supplements and skincare products, dedicated to providing people with a better path to better health. Healthy Directions provides expert guidance and advanced nutritional supplements from some of America’s most knowledgeable and highly respected integrative- and alternative-health doctors including Julian Whitaker, MD; Dr. David Williams; Stephen Sinatra, MD; Aaron Tabor, MD; Drew Sinatra, ND; Richard Wurtman, MD; and Joseph Pergolizzi, Jr., MD. For more information, please visit http://www.HealthyDirections.com/About-Us

About Adaptive Health: Adaptive Health is a leader in science-based product development with a full portfolio of scientifically formulated nutritional health brands, including Nugenix®, Instaflex®, Peptiva®, Lumiday®, Dr. Sinatra®, Dr. Williams™, Dr. Whitaker®, Sleep Answer®, and Trilane®. Adaptive Health products are sold in many major retailers across North America and internationally, as well as via its innovative direct-to-consumer ecommerce platform. For more information, please visit http://www.AdaptiveHealth.com.

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HealthCodes DNA Develops Five New Genetic Tests for Diet & Exercise


The age of obtaining truly personalized health at home has arrived. Today, HealthCodes DNA announces the release of five new genetic tests for health, nutrition, and fitness. Each DNA test promises to provide customers with actionable lifestyle adjustments using DNA technology.

The process for obtaining DNA test results at home is quick and easy. After ordering, HealthCodes DNA provides each new user an at-home DNA kit to collect a sample. When the DNA kit is activated online, the client mails in his or her sample to HealthCodes DNA’s clinical laboratory for analysis. After 2-3 weeks, DNA test results become available to the client in print and secure digital formats.

DNA test result options from HealthCodes DNA vary widely. According to the company, some people may benefit more from understanding their unique dietary needs, while others may benefit from knowing which types of workouts to follow based on their DNA. Per the company website, the time and effort savings from eliminating the guesswork makes HealthCodes DNA an ideal investment into your health. Each DNA test result stays with an individual for a lifetime, so one DNA test provides the user with years of genetically directed lifestyle choices.

According to a company spokesperson, the novel genetic testing product line cuts no corners relative to existing products on the market. DNA kits from HealthCodes DNA include sample collection tubes rather than higher fail rate DNA swabs commonly seen in other products. Additionally, clinical laboratory processing on each sample is expedited. DNA test results from HealthCodes DNA are obtained in 2-3 weeks rather than 4-8 weeks as commonly seen from other DNA tests. Each DNA test is also accompanied by personalized diet and exercise planning technology and free health consultations from HealthCodes DNA.

“Three years of rigorous product development, fine-tuning, and channel positioning have led to the release of these DNA testing products,” said Richard Moore, CMO of HealthCodes DNA. “We are very excited to get these tools in the hands of those who want to become their best selves beginning today.”

Details of the DNA kit and five new DNA tests are provided below:

Sample Collection Kit – MSRP $59

The DNA testing kit, known as the Sample Collection Kit, is the gateway to all DNA tests offered by HealthCodes DNA. When purchasing the Sample Collection Kit, the user activates their DNA kit on HealthCodes DNA’s website and pays a lab fee that varies depending on which DNA test results set the client would like to receive.

5-Metric Overview – MSRP $249

The 5-Metric Overview is an introductory DNA test providing clients a high-level overview of their diet and fitness needs. The DNA test covers 5 traits and 16 genes. The test measures macronutrient ratios (protein, fat, carbohydrates) and physical activity ratios (aerobic and anaerobic). This product comes with the DNA kit, clinical grade lab processing, and DNA test results. Results are delivered in print and digital formats.

Wellness Panel – MSRP $399

The Wellness Panel measures individual macronutrient ratios (protein, fat, carbohydrates), preventable diseases, and explore the body’s physical attributes determined by genetics. The DNA test covers 14 total traits and 20 genes. The test is designed to promote overall health and well-being. This product comes with the DNA kit, clinical grade lab processing, and DNA test results. Results are delivered in print and digital formats.

Nutrition Panel – MSRP $399

The Nutrition Panel measures an array of food sensitivities including sodium, caffeine, lactose, and gluten, food metabolism traits, and micronutrient (vitamins and minerals) metabolism. The DNA test covers 16 total traits and 23 genes. The test is designed to fine-tune users’ dietary needs. This product comes with the DNA kit, clinical grade lab processing, and DNA test results. Results are delivered in print and digital formats.

Fitness Panel – MSRP $399

The Fitness Panel measures physical activity ratio (aerobic and anaerobic), motivation, potential to succeed certain sports, injury risk, and training pain tolerance. The DNA test covers 10 total traits and 32 genes. The test is designed to provide a personalized exercise routine and assess essential aspects of optimizing workouts. This product comes with the DNA kit, clinical grade lab processing, and DNA test results. Results are delivered in print and digital formats.

3-Panel Analysis – MSRP $799

The 3-Panel Analysis is a combination of the Wellness Panel, Nutrition, and Fitness Panels into a 3-in-1 DNA test. This product brings all DNA tests together into a genetically personalized diet and fitness routine that is optimized to maximize health and longevity. The DNA test covers 40 total traits and 75 genes. The 3-Panel Analysis is intended for those looking to unlock the best versions of themselves. This product comes with the DNA kit, clinical grade lab processing, and DNA test results. Results are delivered in print and digital formats.

Beginning December 2019, all of HealthCodes DNA’s genetic testing products are available for sale with free nationwide 2-day shipping on the company’s website, healthcodesdna.com. Products may also be purchased online via Amazon Prime and Walmart.com.

About HealthCodes DNA

HealthCodes DNA is a genetic testing company that provides results detailing the prescribed diet and exercise plans individuals should undertake based on their DNA. Founded in 2017, HealthCodes DNA is based in Durham, North Carolina and benefits from the region’s world-class scientific minds and laboratory facilities. Clients can choose from several DNA kit testing options and receive information about their genetic makeup using their cutting-edge DNA testing technology.

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RJ Young Donates Portion of Sales to Children’s of Alabama


RJ Young Donates Portion of Sales to Children’s of Alabama

RJ Young Donates Portion of Sales to Children’s of Alabama

“We take great pride in investing locally. Thank you to the business partners in Birmingham for contributing to Children’s of Alabama,” said Chip Crunk, President and CEO of RJ Young.

RJ Young Birmingham is proud to donate $5,250 to Children’s of Alabama. Through the purchases of RJ Young equipment, donations were made in the name of Birmingham businesses to the hospital.

As part of their core values, RJ Young is committed to investing resources back into the communities they serve.

“We take great pride in investing locally,” said Chip Crunk, President and CEO of RJ Young. “Thank you to the business partners in Birmingham for contributing to Children’s of Alabama,” Crunk said.

The money raised will go to Children’s of Alabama whose mission is to provide the finest pediatric health services to all children in an environment that fosters excellence in research and medical education. In 2018, Children’s provided care for youngsters from every county in Alabama, 42 other states, and seven foreign countries. It is one of the largest pediatric medical facilities in the country.

To make your own donation or learn more visit the Children’s of Alabama Birmingham website (https://www.childrensal.org/).

About RJ Young

RJ Young is the largest, privately-held dealer in the Southeast and one of the largest in the nation, specializing in managed IT services, document management solutions, managed print services, remote support, remote monitoring, fulfillment services, and office imaging for small to enterprise level businesses. Headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee, RJ Young has been partnering with businesses since 1955 and has over 650 employees in over 30 sales and service locations across nine states. Under the corporate tagline “Your productivity is our mission,” RJ Young helps modern professionals become more successful in their businesses with solutions to securely manage paper and digital information and empowers businesses with leading printing technologies. Learn more about RJ Young (http://www.rjyoung.com).

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Endurance Ranks No. 1474 on the 2019 Inc. 5000 With Three-Year Sales Growth of 280%


Inc. magazine ranked Endurance NO. 1474 on its 38th annual Inc. 5000, the most prestigious ranking of the nation’s fastest-growing private companies. The list represents a unique look at the most successful companies within the American economy’s most dynamic segment—its independent small businesses. Microsoft, Dell, Domino’s Pizza, Pandora, Timberland, LinkedIn, Yelp, Zillow, and many other well-known names gained their first national exposure as honorees on the Inc. 5000.

Endurance is the nation’s premier provider of extended vehicle protection, commonly referred to as an extended car warranty.

The companies on the 2019 Inc. 5000 list all show staggering growth compared to prior lists and shown continuous success in their competitive markets. The 2019 Inc. 5000 achieved an astounding three-year average growth of 454%, and a median rate of 157%. The Inc. 5000’s aggregate revenue was $237.7 billion in 2018, accounting for 1,216,308 jobs over the past three years.

Complete results of the Inc. 5000, including company profiles and an interactive database that can be sorted by industry, region, and other criteria, can be found at http://www.inc.com/inc5000.

“The companies on this year’s Inc. 5000 have followed so many different paths to success,” says Inc. editor in chief James Ledbetter. “There’s no single course you can follow or investment you can take that will guarantee this kind of spectacular growth. But what they have in common is persistence and seizing opportunities.”

“Endurance set out to create a brand in an industry that had been largely devoid of any brand recognition,” said Jordan Batt, CEO of Endurance. “By making customer service the backbone of our company, and living up to that, we have been able to grow at an enormous pace. We are delighted to receive this recognition for the 4th year in a row, which validates our mission to provide peace of mind to drivers nationwide.”

The annual Inc. 5000 event honoring the companies on the list was held on October 10th to the 12th at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort and Spa in Phoenix, Arizona. As always, speakers included some of the greatest innovators and business leaders of our generation.

About Endurance:

Founded in 2006, Endurance Warranty Services LLC strives to be the most customer-driven company in the industry and believes that protecting consumers from exorbitant repair bills is the key to their success. Endurance is Gold-Certified by the Vehicle Protection Association and ranked as the top auto warranty provider by Consumer Affairs, Top 10 Reviews, and Consumers Advocate! By delivering world-class customer service to every customer, current or future, Endurance continues to reign as the premier provider of vehicle protection in the nation.

Visit us online at http://www.EnduranceWarranty.com

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Self-made Multi-Millionaire and African-American Entrepreneur Raising Up a Global Army of Girl Entrepreneurs across the World


“Envision that [your dream] can come true. Don’t wait for anyone else to lead the way, you lead the way down the path that’s been created for you. Grow where you’re planted.” – Angela Reddix Ph.D.

Self-made multi-millionaire, Angela Reddix, Ph.D. has built a successful career as an entrepreneur in the health care and nonprofit sectors. But as a black girl born into poverty. She did not see many business owners in her Norfolk, VA neighborhood. She never imagined she would one day be an employer.

“While I felt motivated as a child, I never thought that I would become an entrepreneur. I just knew that I wanted to be successful and show other young girls like me, no matter their ethnicity, that they can be successful, too.”

So after launching ARDX, a multi-million dollar healthcare management and IT consulting firm in 2006, she founded Envision Lead Grow in 2017, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to increase the rate of entrepreneurship and break the cycle of poverty for middle school girls in underserved communities throughout the United States. The organization is committed to helping girls, 90% of whom are African American, build their future through entrepreneurship by creating a community to support their success. But that is only part of the story. The organization is growing an impressive national presence having expanded to welcome 600 girls across the nation from 30 states. In a few months, those numbers will increase to 1,000 girls over 48 states from the east coast to the west coast of the United States. And future plans include a global presence with expansion into Haiti, Kenya, Argentina and Canada to begin. In so doing, Reddix says she is effectually raising a world of impressive girls through her national nonprofit that not only provides role models but tangible resources for girls to launch sound and sustainable businesses.

Over the years the organization has inspired 671 girls to become entrepreneurs. Examples can be found in girls like a fifteen year old Girl Boss from Norfolk, Virginia who first joined Envision Lead Grow in 2017. Since 2017, she has established not one but two businesses, a non-profit organization that brings science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to title one schools, and a supplementary, fundraising, custom apparel business.

But studies say inspiring women and girls is not enough to help them succeed in business. While from 2007 to 2018, the number of firms owned by black women grew by a stunning 164%, according to the 2018 State of Women-Owned Business Report by American Express, businesses owned by black women face sustainability challenges. For example, the gap is widening between the average revenue for businesses owned by women of color and those owned by non-minority women. For women of color, average revenue dropped from $84,000 in 2007 to $66,400 in 2018, while for non-minority businesses, revenue rose from $181,000 to $212,300. And the gap between African American women-owned businesses’ average revenue and all women-owned businesses, Amex found, is the greatest. Black women suffer from lack of capital, too. Only a mere 0.2% of all venture capital funding was allocated toward startups founded by black women according to Black Enterprise.

And only three percent of all minority firms have sales of $1 million dollars or more, according to MBDA.gov, which means that by definition, Reddix herself is as anomaly – an African American woman who is a multi-millionaire who employs more than 100 people. “Envision Lead Grow is doing more than arm these young women with everything they need to become who can sustain businesses,” Reddix says. “We are helping them become entrepreneurs who are employers, who are able to be highly contributive to the workforce by providing a pipeline for economic growth in our cities, and providing streams of income for their employees and business communities around the world.” Reddix adds she encourages girls to consider STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math), because those disciplines generate higher revenue than some of the more traditional industries.

Reddix says what makes Envision Lead Grow different is the 4-pronged approach to entrepreneurship it provides to the middle school girls she calls “Girl Bosses.” After Summer Immersion camp, entrepreneurs receive 9-Month Mentoring Support, Webinar Support and membership into an Entrepreneur Institute which provides ongoing training including partnering with adult mentors. The program’s mentors are high-performing women in business who check in with mentees regularly to keep them and their businesses on track. ELG also provides information on how to sustain successful businesses and get funding.

“We’ve reached the point where we will go deeper not wider,” Reddix says. What makes her nonprofit unique is the depth to which she helps girl-preneurs. A girl who joins ELG as a middle schooler, for example, receives mentoring and support through high school and beyond. “We are helping these entrepreneurs go to college, get results on their SAT/ACT tests, and win scholarships. And we are also raising money for endowments so that the vision of each entrepreneur can be can be realized.”

“Future boardrooms across the world will be filled with girls who are triple threats – educated, innovative and confident.”

Reddix is on a mission to inspire girls around the world by telling her story of humble beginnings and teaching valuable skills that encourages them not only to dream, but gives them a recipe for success. The recipe simply begins with advice she would give her twelve year old self.

“Envision that [your dream] can come true,” she would say. “Don’t wait for anyone else to lead the way, you lead the way down the path that’s been created for you. Grow where you’re planted. Everything you’re learning today can be the seed for tomorrow.”

Envision Lead Grow is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to increase the rate of entrepreneurship and break the cycle of poverty for middle school girls in underserved communities throughout the United States. ELG is committed to helping girls build their future through entrepreneurship by creating a community to support their success. For more information on Envision Lead Grow, go to https://envisionleadgrow.org. Learn more about, Angela Reddix, Ph.D. here.

Media Contact:

Christina Sykes

240-277-8663

hello@bigmediaagency.com

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Edward Rippel, MD Named 2019 Million Hearts® Hypertension Control Champion


Edward Rippel, MD, FACP, of Quinnipiac Internal Medicine, P.C., is the first clinician in Connecticut to join the ranks of 118 national Hypertension Control Champions who have demonstrated success in improving hypertension control among their patients since 2012.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently announced 17 winners of the 2019 Million Hearts® Hypertension Control Challenge, a competition to identify practices, clinicians, and health systems that have worked with their patients to achieve hypertension control rates of at least 80%.

Edward Rippel, MD, FACP, of Quinnipiac Internal Medicine, P.C., is the first clinician in Connecticut to join the ranks of 118 national Hypertension Control Champions who have demonstrated success in improving hypertension control among their patients since 2012. Qualidigm, a leading healthcare consulting organization based in Wethersfield, Conn., recognized Dr. Rippel for his dedication to control hypertension rates through nomination for the 2019 Million Hearts® Hypertension Control Champion. Dr. Rippel is also Connecticut’s first solo practitioner to achieve Level 3 status in the National Committee on Quality Assurance (NCQA) – Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) Program.

“I congratulate Dr. Rippel on this well-deserved national recognition,” said Timothy Elwell, PhD, Qualidigm president and CEO. “His leadership and commitment to improving patient outcomes was evident ten years ago when Qualidigm’s clinical practice transformation team first began working with Dr. Rippel in support of PCMH recognition, a high recognition that Dr. Rippel’s office still holds today.”

Million Hearts® is a national initiative, co-led by the CDC and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, to prevent 1 million heart attacks and strokes by 2022. The CDC recognizes the Champions’ performance and shares their lessons learned to inspire others to focus on achieving similar success.

Learn more about the Million Hearts® Hypertension Control Champions.

About Qualidigm:

With its corporate headquarters in Wethersfield, Conn. and offices in Manchester, Maine; Dover, NH; Barre, VT; and Providence, RI, Qualidigm’s mission is to transform the quality, safety, and value of healthcare by leading, collaborating, and aligning improvement efforts. Qualidigm provides quality improvement, project management, evidence-based education and learning sessions, evaluation, and technical assistance services to clinicians, healthcare organizations, and communities. With over 36 years of experience improving healthcare delivery, the company is focused on leading the way to make New England the healthiest region in the United States. http://www.Qualidigm.org

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Sunrise Hitek Announce New 7th Generation iPad Case for 10.2″ iPad


Rugged Case for iPad 7th Generation 10.2"

Rugged Case for iPad 7th Generation 10.2″

Perhaps the most innovative new feature is that the kickstand rotates 360 degrees for vertical and horizontal viewing at any time.

A broken screen often leads to a broken iPad. The dual-layer rugged design with extra padding around the corners brings added drop-resistance. The simple act of adding a case to the device can add years to the life of the device and save school districts (and parents) hundreds of dollars.

The Slim Tough Case G7 offers the most rugged protection for 7th Generation (2019) 10.2″ iPads. It is specifically designed for kids and teachers at K-12 schools, and is compatible with all popular charging carts, including the Bretford, Anthro, Datamation, Ergotron, and others.

This G7 model offers some exciting new features. First off, it includes a built-in holder for Apple Pencil or Logitech Crayon. Perhaps the most innovative new feature is that the kickstand rotates 360 degrees for vertical and horizontal viewing at any time. To go with this new kickstand is an optional hand strap and customers can purchase an optional shoulder strap. This case will be available in black, blue, red or green colors.

In addition to the new features listed above, this case still has the same bells and whistles as the previous generations of Slim Tough Case. Sunrise Hitek’s rugged iPad case adds ultimate durability and shock resistance to iPad. Its highlights include a dual-layer rugged design including a protective silicone skin over an inner hard case and a naked frame for the very best touch experience, which is 100% stylus compatible.

About Hitek Cases

Hitek is a leading maker of protective gear for schools’ 1:1 technology programs. Hitek has been designing tech accessories since 2013 and expanding ever since. Their primary customer are K-12 schools, with products in over 3,200 schools, protecting more than 240,000 devices. A privately-owned enterprise, the company is based in Chicago and sells products worldwide.

About Sunrise Hitek

Sunrise Hitek is an Inc. 5000 company established in 1988 and offers speedy and innovative print marketing execution for the world’s leading brands. Sunrise employs the most advanced equipment and technology, such as G7-certified HP Indigo & UV flatbed presses, digital die-cutting, and specialty coating/lamination, to create best-in-class color printing, packaging, trade show & display graphics, plus a wide variety of promo products. A privately-owned enterprise, the company is based in Chicago and sells products worldwide.

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Fitness Machine Technicians Opens Location in Orange County


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The clear commitment of Fitness Machine Technicians to excellence in customer service was a main factor in my decision to open this business, as it has also been a core value of mine throughout my career. I look forward to sharing my skills and dedication with the Orange County community.

Fitness Machine Technicians, specialists in the maintenance and repair of exercise equipment for commercial and residential customers, today announced it is now open in Orange County, Calif. Owner Steve Chapman of Vista, Calif., a former national retail brand IT manager across seven states, brings key skills and experience to drive success as an entrepreneur.

Headquartered in Philadelphia, Fitness Machine Technicians operates in more than 70 markets across the country and offers service/repair and maintenance on a variety of exercise equipment in fitness centers, universities, high schools, hotels, apartment complexes, corporate gyms and private residences.

Prior to opening Fitness Machine Technicians, Chapman spent over 30 years working for Nordstrom, starting out in receiving and eventually advancing to the position of IT Manager, where he oversaw the entire IT team for the Southwest region of the country, spanning seven states. About making the switch to exercise equipment service, Chapman says, “I’ve always enjoyed being able to troubleshoot and resolve a point of frustration for people. In my new venture, I’ve simply swapped out computers for fitness machines.”

Born and raised in Hawaii, Chapman moved to California in 1987, where he studied electrical engineering at the University of California San Diego. He believes Orange County is ideal for opening Fitness Machine Technicians. “Our state is known for being very active and fitness-minded and while the weather is generally favorable, many people prefer to work out at home and at gyms, ” said Chapman. “In addition, the clear commitment of Fitness Machine Technicians to excellence in customer service was a main factor in my decision to open this business, as it has also been a core value of mine throughout my career. I look forward to sharing my skills and dedication with the Orange County community.”

Chapman expects to hire another technician in the coming months and additional team members as his services grow.

Since its inception, Fitness Machine Technicians has been committed to delivering reliable service/repair and preventive maintenance services to customers across the nation. With more than 35 years’ experience in the fitness industry, Chief Executive and Founder Don Powers created a company that puts its customers first.

Powers notes, “We were immediately impressed by Steve’s energy and enthusiasm for bringing Fitness Machine Technicians to the Orange County area. Driven by his familiarity with the community and smart approach to business and customer service, we know he’ll be a successful business owner.”

For more information about having a fitness machine or exercise facility serviced, please contact Fitness Machine Technicians Orange County at 877-FMTECHS or visit

https://fitnessmachinetechnicians.com/orange-county

About Fitness Machine Technicians

Fitness Machine Technicians specializes in the maintenance and repair of fitness equipment for commercial and home exercise facilities. Clients include fitness centers, corporations, hotels, condominiums, high schools, colleges and universities, government, and residential homes across the United States. Its corporate-trained and authorized technicians are committed to providing the most reliable repair and maintenance services.

Fitness Machine Technicians also offers franchise opportunities to individuals with an interest in fitness and looking to run a service-based business based on a proven operating model. The company’s award-winning franchise currently has locations in more than 80 territories across the country. For more information, visit the website at http://www.FitnessMachineTechnicians.com or call 844-FMT-FIXX.

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Lottery Tickets as Holiday Gifts for Minors? Know the Risks!


[IMAGE] The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling, Inc.

The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling, Inc.

The idea that a game of poker among teens or the gifting of a lottery ticket to a minor is harmless, simply because they are not smoking or drinking, is sending the wrong message that somehow gambling is acceptable for underage persons.

Today, the Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling (FCCG) joined forces with the National Council on Problem Gambling and the International Center for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors at McGill University, to urge parents and others to take the time to select meaningful holiday gifts and stocking stuffers for kids, versus buying unsuitable, quick-fix gifts, like lottery scratch off tickets, or other items not intended for children, which have the potential to cause harm.

According to Jennifer Kruse, FCCG’s Executive Director, “The idea that a game of poker among teens or the gifting of a lottery ticket to a minor is harmless, simply because they are not smoking or drinking, is sending the wrong message that somehow gambling is acceptable for underage persons. It is essential to remember that gambling is strictly prohibited for individuals under the age of 18 in the Sunshine State. Of equal importance, attaching a lottery ticket to a child’s gift or including a lottery ticket in a child’s holiday stocking can actually cause harm, with research findings on this very issue directly correlating the receipt of lottery tickets as gifts during childhood with risky, problematic gambling behavior later in life.”

While most people don’t have problems when they gamble, more young people today are developing problems with gambling than ever before, due to the availability, accessibility, and acceptability in our society. Many adults are unaware of the non-traditional ways that gambling is now popping up online, such as through video games – where casino gambling takes place within the game or players purchase upgrades that increase the likelihood of success or extend the game (extra chances or lives) – all of which are forms of gambling. Research findings from one study noted that those with problem gambling behaviors at age 30 were three times more likely to have engaged in a greater variety of gambling activities as youth. Thus, children receiving lottery tickets as holiday gifts have an increased risk for the development of later-life problem gambling, as this represents exposure to another type of gambling activity.

Youth between the ages of 13-17 are among the fastest growing groups of problem gamblers, with prevalence rates in some states twice that of the adult population. According to Kruse, “Data collected on the FCCG’s 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine supports this assertion, as 36% of problem gamblers seeking help last year said they started gambling before the age of 25, and 10% stated they began gambling prior to reaching the legal age of 18. Further, more than one-third (34%) reported the onset of gambling-related problems began before the age of 30. Whether or not folks are comfortable with the idea, children can and do engage with gambling. The FCCG urges parents, educators, and others not to dismiss problem gambling from the long list of concerns regarding today’s youth.”

Additionally, Florida prevalence research among adolescents’ ages 13-17 reveal that at-risk, problem and compulsive gamblers acknowledge that the first person they gambled with was a family member, often identifying a grandparent, parent, sibling, or other relative. “Parents and other adults must remember that just as gifting a child a bottle of alcohol or a pack of cigarettes is inappropriate, so too is the gifting of lottery tickets to minors. We must create safeguards to help protect our youth and ensure they understand that gambling is a risky behavior, as is the consumption or use of alcohol, drugs, or tobacco,” Kruse concluded.

The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling, Inc. (FCCG) is a not-for-profit corporation under contract with Florida State government, serving as the designated state affiliate of the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG). In addition to operating the 24-hour Problem Gambling HelpLine (888-ADMIT-IT), the FCCG increases awareness of problem gambling through education and outreach efforts throughout the state of Florida, advocates on behalf of the public regarding issues relating to problem gambling, and provides programs, resources, and other population specific supports to those in need of assistance.

i. Kundu, Priya V eta l. “Gambling-Related Attitudes and Behaviors in Adolescents Having Received Instant (Scratch) Lottery Tickets as Gifts” Journal of Adolescent Health: Official publication of the Society for Adolescent Medicine vol. 52, 4 (2013): 456-64.

ii. Caribonneau, R., Viataro, F., Brendgen, M., Tremblay, RE., Variety of Gambling Activities from Adolescence to Age 30 and Association with Gambling Problems, December 2015.

iii. Shapira, N., Ferguson, M., Frost-Pineda, K., Gold, M., Gambling and Problem Gambling Among Adolescents in Florida, A Report to the Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling, February 2003.

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Hippo Insurance Partners with National Mortgage Provider Home Point Financial


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Hippo is building the future of home insurance with a partner ecosystem that is helping to shape the future of home buying and home ownership

Hippo, the California-based insurtech company that is transforming home insurance, and Home Point Financial (Home Point), a national mortgage originator and servicer, have teamed up to bring Home Point customers access to modern home insurance.

With Hippo Insurance’s efficient online application process integrated directly into the Home Point online mortgage portal, customers can take advantage of home insurance savings and better coverage, with premiums that can be paid directly through their escrow payments. Hippo Insurance is the exclusive home insurance provider offered within Home Point’s portal, ensuring that qualifying customers have the opportunity to select the very best coverage available for their properties.

During the partnership’s initial phase, Home Point customers purchased policies in all 20 of the states where Hippo Insurance’s policies are currently sold. In addition, Home Point customers who have purchased home insurance from Hippo have realized an average savings of $421.00, or 32 percent, versus their previous premiums.

Hippo Insurance saves customers money on their home insurance, with online quotes in under 60-seconds and coverage geared towards today’s homeowner. The partnership was formed due to Hippo’s unique ability to refocus home insurance back on the customer, including the company’s great strides towards providing clients protective coverage through proactive underwriting and smart home integrations. Home Point is able to access the true value of Hippo’s technology by matching each quote to specific customers based on their current financial and home financing situation. This greatly reduces the overall work customers need to do to find home insurance tailored to their needs.

Customers can access and manage all aspects of their mortgage payment and escrow process through Home Point’s online portal. Home Point built a dedicated home ownership platform within its portal where customers can receive tailored quotes from Hippo Insurance and identify additional services and information to maximize the value of their home. Once Home Point identifies the kinds of services customers need, they use data and smart partners, like Hippo Insurance, to help customers self-serve.

“There is a massive shift happening across financial services to put a laser focus on the individual customer and their respective needs, while promoting the right type of products and engagement,” said Brian Brizard, Chief Operating Officer, Home Point Financial. “Hippo is as passionate about customer experience as Home Point, and so it’s our aim, together, to provide all the additional value borrower’s need as they manage what’s often the most important financial purchase of their lives. We deeply investigated home insurance providers for their customer experience, tailored coverage, pricing and technology before landing on Hippo, truly the best in-class solution for businesses like Home Point Financial and customers alike.”

Hippo and Home Point’s partnership signifies the larger changes happening in the home buying and selling markets today, as companies look to embed simpler transactions for their customers and provide them with potentially lower priced options by offering a wide array of services including mortgage lending and insurance.

“Hippo is building the future of home insurance with a partner ecosystem that is helping to shape the future of home buying and home ownership,” said Yuval Harry, Vice President, Partnerships, Hippo. “In order for the services that surround buying a home to work together, providers like Hippo and Home Point must help customers bring both lending and insurance purchase-points closer together. This collaboration is an excellent example of how technology can work together to create happy customers across multiple states.”

About Hippo

Hippo is on a mission to transform home insurance for the modern household. Among its many innovations, Hippo allows homeowners to get a quote and purchase home insurance online in 60 seconds or less, save up to 25 percent compared with traditional insurers, and obtain smarter coverage for modern households. This includes protection for possessions like appliances, consumer electronics and home offices. Founded in 2015 by Assaf Wand and Eyal Navon, Hippo made its debut in the insurance marketplace in April 2017, and has raised $209 million to reinvent home insurance. The company is headquartered in Palo Alto, California with offices in Dallas and Austin, TX the company’s insurance headquarters. For more information, visit http://www.myhippo.com.

About Home Point Financial

Home Point Financial is a national mortgage originator and servicer. With the goal of providing a superior customer experience, Home Point has an innovative approach to lending, focusing on speed, quality and consistency for customers and partners. Home Point’s operating philosophy is defined by the simple but very impactful statement – “We Care.”

Located in Ann Arbor, Mich., Home Point Financial is a subsidiary of Home Point Capital LP, a financial services holding company founded in 2014 and owned by members of management and by investment funds managed by Stone Point Capital LLC. For further information about Home Point Financial, please visit https://www.homepointfinancial.com.

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