ProfNet Experts Available on E-Cigarette Regulation, Pretzel Day, Cosmetic Surgery, More

NEW YORK, April 25, 2014 /PRNewswire/ --Below are experts from the ProfNet network that are available to discuss timely issues in your coverage area. If you are interested in interviewing any of the experts, please contact them via the contact information at the end of the listing. To receive these updates by email, send a note to [e-mail] with the industries you cover, and we'll add you to the appropriate edition.

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EXPERT ALERTS

• Food and Drug Administration Regulation of E-Cigarettes
• Financial Planning Challenges for Modern Seniors
• Sustainability Through Water Conservation
• Breeding and Research and Development
• Cosmetic Surgery Procedures
• Evolution of Today's Senior Living Communities
• Gay Marriage Supporters Have Reason to Hope
• Going Green to Save Green
• Protecting the Rights of School Children With Diabetes
• The Craft of Pretzel Making for National Pretzel Day
• How He Can Prepare for a Healthy Conception
• Stress, Mindfulness and Mind/Body Medicine
• Celebrity Divorces

MEDIA JOBS

• Sports Reporter - The Wall Street Journal (NY)
• Senior Writer - The Fiscal Times (DC)
• General Assignment Reporter - Killeen Daily Herald (TX)

OTHER NEWS & RESOURCES

• Media 411: Copy Editors: Human vs. Automated
• Disclosure 101: NIRI's President and CEO Shares His Insight
• The Editor-Freelancer Relationship: 5 Tips for Making it Work

EXPERT ALERTS:

Food and Drug Administration Regulation of E-Cigarettes
Ernest Hawk, M.D., M.P.H
Vice President, Cancer Prevention
University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
"The Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) actions to regulate electronic cigarettes represent a very good first step in curbing the future development of nicotine addictions, and providing the public -- especially researchers and regulators -- with better information upon which to guide future research and resulting data into evidence-based public policies. However, these actions, while important, are best understood as only foundational or preliminary in nature; future FDA-sponsored research, deliberation, and actions are warranted to address a variety of additional questions and issues."
Hawk, M.D., M.P.H, vice president ofCancer Preventionat The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, is available to discuss the known and unknown health effects of e-cigarettes and the importance of FDA regulation. As part of MD Anderson's Moon Shots Program, Dr. Hawk and a team of experts are leading efforts to prevent and treat tobacco-related cancers with the ultimate goal of eliminating cancer deaths due to smoking. One of their first initiatives, to be announced this summer, puts forth an aggressive plan, redoubling efforts in tobacco prevention and advocating for stronger tobacco policy with a focus on youth and young adults.
Bio: http://faculty.mdanderson.org/Ernest_Hawk/Default.asp
Website: http://www.mdanderson.org
Media Contacts: Matt Rindone, [e-mail]; Lindsay Kurs, [e-mail]

Financial Planning Challenges for Modern Seniors
Terence O'Malley
Attorney
GlynnDevins Senior Living Marketing in Overland Park, KS
"As approximately 10,000 U.S. baby boomers turn 65 every day for the next 19 years, senior financial planning is at the top of mind for many Americans. There are three major areas of concern for seniors: senior living, financial matters and estate planning. With so many details to consider including how to choose a retirement community, Medicaid, Medicare, social security, tax planning, IRAs, long-term care insurance, living trusts, wills and asset protection, aging in America is a convoluted topic. Today's seniors need guidance on navigating the many options available to them, and deciding what works best for their financial and lifestyle situations."
O'Malley is a knowledgeable and credible advocate for senior living and a trusted source for seniors, adult children, and even financial planners or other influencers. He is an experienced trial attorney, licensed investment advisor, certified aging services professional, and member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys and American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys.
Website: http://www.glynndevins.com
Media Contact: Morgan Schaeffer, [e-mail]

Sustainability Through Water Conservation
Randy Moss
Irrigation and Technology Specialist
Lipman
"When you've grown produce for decades, you learn a thing or two about preserving land. To conserve our most valuable resource, and prepare for future demand, Lipman has instituted a variety of sustainability techniques to help us give back to the earth. Our integrated model of taking produce from seed to delivery enables us to constantly refine our sustainability practices. By surveying our end product, we're able to make changes throughout the cycle, starting with research and development. Conservation efforts, like drip and micro-irrigation - as opposed to running large pumps - helps us to deliver the water near the root system, where it is needed, rather than watering the whole field. In fact, Lipman has seen a 70 percent reduction in water consumption by using drip irrigation. Our water usage policy is simple: We count every drop and make every drop count."
Moss is the irrigation and technology specialist for Lipman - North America's largest field tomato grower. He can speak to agriculture topics, specifically sustainability through water conservation. Lipman has farms throughout the country and supplies some of the biggest names in the restaurant and grocery industry. The company's diverse operations include farming, repacking, procurement solutions, processing and research and development. Based in Immokalee, Fla., the company's highest volume crop is tomatoes, but also grows and markets peppers, cucumbers, eggplant, watermelon and potatoes.
Media Contact: Jenni Izzo, [e-mail]

Breeding and Research and Development
Mark Barineau
Director of R&D and Seed Production
Lipman
"In order to develop the 'perfect tomato', our experienced in-house researchers utilize various highly sophisticated technologies to enhance critical traits that increase the desirability and farming efficiency of our tomato varieties. The proof of success lies in the fact that Lipman grows over 110 million commercial seedlings each year with the vast majority being Lipman's own proprietary tomato hybrids. Lipman's state of the art research and development team has the ability to breed tomato varieties that are ideally suited for each of our manygrowing areas because we relentlessly test our materials in each of those areas first. By breeding where we farm, it allows us to make better adapted varieties with targeted disease resistance packages and growing traits which lead to healthier plants. The philosophy is simple, healthier plants make superior fruits with better color, flavor and nutrition. The overall result is just better for our customers and better for the environment."
Barineau is "the guy that's putting flavor back into the tomato." An industry veteran of more than 25 years, he is a leading industry researcher and expert in developing new and innovative tomato varieties for Lipman - North America's largest field tomato grower. He can discuss all facets of the agriculture industry - specifically perfecting the breeding process; environmental influences on growing; seed breeding and the science of tomato flavor.
Media Contact: Jenni Izzo, [e-mail]

Cosmetic Surgery Procedures
Richard Chaffoo
Plastic Surgeon (M.D., FACS, FICS)
La Jolla Plastic Surgery
"When it comes to plastic surgery, my motto is, 'Be honest with your patients and always give them your best.' I think it starts with the consultation and finding out what their goals are. You have to be willing to listen and communicate well. It's a team effort. I always involve my patients in the decision-making process. I like to talk with them and get inside their heads so I can deliver what they want."
Dr. Chaffoo is available to discuss cosmetic surgery procedures including liposuction, tummy tucks, breast augmentation, breast reduction, rhinoplasty, face lifts, eyelid surgery and more. He is a member of American Board of Plastic Surgery, American Board of Otolaryngology, and American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
Website: http://www.drchaffoo.com
Media Contact: Katherine Rothman, [e-mail]

Evolution of Today's Senior Living Communities -- Older Adults Demand More
Lee Ratta
SVP, Organizational Advancement Group
Front Porch Retirement Communities
"This generation expresses the need for more in a retirement community -- a place where they can continue to enjoy life and live it their way. Resident value-added programs like art therapy programs, meditation drumming, life review programs, lifelong learning, state-of-the-art fitness and aquatic programs, smart home technology, performing art centers, cognitive fitness programs, and centers for spirituality and aging are just some of the life-enhancing programs in today's retirement communities that allow today's older adults to live life their way."
Ratta is senior vice president of organizational advancement for Front Porch, Southern California's largest not-for-profit provider of senior communities. Ratta leads the branding and marketing communications efforts for the Front Porch family of companies. She is responsible for fund development and operations of four foundations associated with Front Porch. She brings 30 years of experience in advertising, PR and fund development to her role. She holds a bachelor's degree from Simmons College and completed her master's coursework in critical and creative thinking through literature and art at University of Massachusetts, Boston.
Website: http://www.frontporch.net
Media Contact: Chris Navalta, [e-mail]

Gay Marriage Supporters Have Reason to Hope
Amber Liddell Alwais
Divorce Attorney
McCurley Orsinger McCurley Nelson & Downing L.L.P. in San Antonio, Texas
"The steady spate of rulings by federal judges around the country recognizing the validity of same-sex marriages is a light at the end of the tunnel for same-sex couples. The latest ruling came on April 14 when an Ohio federal judge ordered the state to recognize out-of-state same-sex marriages. I still advise gay and lesbian couples to proceed with caution, because issues like spousal benefits, adoption and even divorce are still being hashed out, but it certainly appears as if the federal courts are taking the lead on gay marriage. They're saying that same-sex marriage is entitled to the same protections as other relationships, or at least those judges are dismantling discriminatory practices against same-sex couples. So if you're in favor of gay marriage, the light at the end of the tunnel is getting brighter."
Media Contact: Amy Hunt, [e-mail]

Going Green to Save Green
Sarah Bohan
Vice President Corporate Relations
Michigan State University Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU)
"Often, the decision to go green comes down to cost. When trying to go green, we have to adjust our mindsets to look long term, and reasonably assess what will be right for us right now and down the road. Done right, going green can make sense financially. Here are some tips on how you can start the process of making your home or workspace green. Look at your budget and make a plan. Know what is important to you. While the initial expense of green materials may be a little higher, the overall energy efficiency of your decisions can pay off in the long run."
Bohan oversees the internal and corporate communications department at MSUFCU and works with her team to establish new employee and corporate communications at the credit union. She is also responsible for MSUFCU's media relations, Michigan State University campus and community involvement, and working with credit union partners to coordinate member benefits as a result from donations. MSUFCU is based in East Lansing, Mich.
Media Contact: Kristine Richmond, [e-mail]

Protecting the Rights of School Children With Diabetes
Sarah Blenner
Director of the Center for Diabetes Research and Policy
IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law
"Apps serve as a platform for structured communication between parties such as a caregiver and an elderly parent or a child and the school nurse. Apps provide a repository for data, including compliance with medication regimens, activity notes, and food logs that can be shared with a doctor to identify trends and troubleshoot health issues. But what happens to private health information entered into Web searches or health care apps? That information may be used against you by credit card agencies, employers, or life insurers. Unlike health care information in the hands of doctors or hospitals, medical information from Web searches, medical apps, and health-related digital games is not protected by the federal health privacy law."
Blenner of the Institute for Science, Law and Technology and the Center for Diabetes Research and Policy, both at IIT Chicago-Kent, is co-author (with Melanie Koellmer) of a study that analyzed 275 diabetes-specific apps available in the Google Play Store to determine their functions, privacy policies, and whether the apps claimed to be approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They also reviewed the law and policies that govern the design and use of health and fitness apps. Among the findings were that the vast majority of diabetes apps available in the Google Play Store did not have privacy policies readily available prior to downloading the app. The apps that did have a privacy policy available often did not provide helpful or easily understandable tools to control privacy. She is available for interviews related to law and policy related to diabetes.
Website: http://www.iitdiabetes.org
Expert Contact: [e-mail]
Media Contact: Gwendolyn E. Osborne, [e-mail]

The Craft of Pretzel Making for National Pretzel Day
Amy Zehnder Grossi
General Manager and Baking Expert
Bavarian Inn in Michigan
"One of the twists of the pretzel indicates the love of the family for the child. When we teach pretzel rolling to our guests, we explain the meaning behind this and every other step in the process. During the pretzel rolling experience, guests are taught the history of the pretzel, then make a pretzel while learning the meaning behind each step, and of course, taking the baked pretzel with them."
Grossi, general manager and baking expert at Frankenmuth, Michigan's world-famous Bavarian Inn, is looking forward to National Pretzel Day on Saturday, April, 26. That's because she has overseen the baking and selling of over 17,000 of the delectable snacks in 2013. She can share more with reporters about pretzel making, a craft that originated in the Middle Ages, and carries with it a rich history of religious and culinary significance. Last year, more than 6,400 guests at the restaurant participated in a pretzel-rolling experience, where they make, bake and take home their own pretzel.
Media Contact: Sue Voyles, [e-mail]

How He Can Prepare for a Healthy Conception
Dr. Michael J. Heard, M.D., F.A.C.O.G.
Reproductive Endocrinologist and Infertility Specialist
The Heard Clinic
"Sperm health and quality begins to decline around the age of 25, well before the age that many men start to think about having a family. Therefore, when trying to conceive, it is important for men to make sure they're in the best reproductive health as they're responsible for 40 percent or more of the conception process. Being cognizant of steps that can be taken to boost reproductive health such as following a healthy diet, getting regular exercise and speaking with your doctor about your medical history may all help to contribute to a healthy conception."
Dr. Heard, M.D., F.A.C.O.G., reproductive endocrinologist and infertility specialist and advocate for Proxeed Plus (www.proxeedplus.com) is available for interview to address an often under discussed topic when it comes to preparing for pregnancy -- the man's preconception health. He can provide insight and tips on what a man can do to contribute to a healthy conception; such as simple lifestyle and dietary changes, getting a preconception checkup, foregoing unhealthy habits, and talking with a doctor about possibly taking a supplement to help support sperm health.
Media Contact: Danielle Maiello, [e-mail]

Stress, Mindfulness and Mind/Body Medicine
Kathy Gruver, Ph.D.
Mind/Body Medicine Practitioner
Stress is a killer in our society, contributing to 60-80 percent of doctor visits. Says Dr. Gruver: "It's not the stress that's really the problem. It's our reaction to the stress and that we can control. We have so many options for dealing with our stress response, from meditation, visualization, affirmations, mindfulness practices, massage, Reiki, yoga. The possibilities are endless for modalities that allow us to regain control. And for those people who think they don't have time, or can't meditate, I can teach you a mini meditation that will change your life."
This year has been deemed the year of mindfulness, and the future of our health hinges on better understanding of how the mind and body are interrelated. A recovering type-A personality, Dr. Gruver is available for on-air and written interviews. For her own stress relief she does hip hop and flying trapeze. She has been working in the massage and natural health field for over two decades and prides herself on her balanced approach of combining safe natural remedies with judicious use of Western medicine. She is an award-winning author and the host of the national TV show based on her first book, "The Alternative Medicine Cabinet" (winner Beverly Hills Book Awards). She has earned her Ph.D. in natural health and has authored two books on stress: "Body/Mind Therapies for the Bodyworker" and, just published, "Conquer Your Stress with Mind/Body Techniques" (winner of the Beverly Hills Book Awards and finalist for the USA Best Books Award). She has studied mind/body medicine at the famed Benson-Henry Institute for Mind-Body Medicine at Harvard Medical School and pursued further education at The National Institutes of Health. She has been featured as an expert in numerous publications including Glamour, Prevention, Men's Health, Huffington Post, Yahoo.com, Ladies Home Journal, Massage and Bodyworks Magazine, and Massage Magazine. She has written dozens of health and wellness articles and contributing posts. She has also appeared as a guest expert on over 100 radio and TV shows including NPR, SkyNews London, CBS Radio, and Lifetime Television, and has done dozens of educational lectures around the country.
Expert Contact: [e-mail]

Celebrity Divorces
Stacy Phillips
Partner
Phillips Lerner
"With respect to celebrity divorces, as with their lives, their divorces are often played out in public. The court of public opinion can be brutal."
Phillips is a certified family law specialist and managing principal of Phillips Lerner, a full-service family law firm in Los Angeles. She is the author of "Divorce: It's All About Control - How to Win the Emotional, Psychological and Legal Wars," now in its sixth printing. As a staunch supporter of victims' rights, she assisted in the drafting of Senate Bill 924 (codified in California Code of Civil Procedure Section 340.15), which extended the statute of limitations period for victims of domestic violence to sue their abusers in civil court. She represents business executives, entrepreneurs, sports, entertainment, political and religious figures, and other high-net-worth individuals. She is very ready for TV or radio, in addition to print media. She is an experienced commentator.
Website: http://www.Phillipslerner.com
Expert Contact: [e-mail]

MEDIA JOBS:

Following are links to job listings for staff and freelance writers, editors and producers. You can view these and more job listings on our Job Board: https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/community/jobs/

• Sports Reporter - The Wall Street Journal (NY)
• Senior Writer - The Fiscal Times (DC)
• General Assignment Reporter - Killeen Daily Herald (TX)

See more listings here.

OTHER NEWS & RESOURCES:

Following are links to other news and resources we think you might find useful. If you have an item you think other reporters would be interested in and would like us to include in a future alert, please drop us a line at [e-mail]

• MEDIA 411: COPY EDITORS: HUMAN VS. AUTOMATED? If you're a writer, a copy editor is someone you rely on -- that extra set of eyes which inspect and analyze your copy and make it better. It's the one person who understands what you're trying to say and helps you say it better than you thought possible. What if you no longer had that cushion and instead had to rely on an automated copy editor?http://prn.to/1lcKjP9
• DISCLOSURE 101: NIRI'S PRESIDENT AND CEO SHARES HIS INSIGHT. In our latest ConnectChat, we invitedNIRI'sJeffrey Morganto share his insight on disclosure and Regulation FD (Reg FD). If you missed it, here's a recap: http://prn.to/1r0nQGy
• THE EDITOR-FREELANCER RELATIONSHIP: 5 TIPS FOR MAKING IT WORK. At a recent Press Club of Cleveland event, a panel discussed how they find freelancers and shared valuableadvice on working with editors: http://prn.to/1jvx2yK

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