Recipe Day! Curried Chicken w/ Apples & Bananas

Curried Chicken with Apples and Bananas

Serves 8

Ingredients:
1 tbsp Compliments canola oil
1.7 lb / 800 g Chicken thighs, boneless, skinless, cut into pieces
1 medium Onion, chopped
2 cloves Garlic, minced
2 tbsp Curry powder
2 tsp Turmeric, ground
½ tsp Cumin, ground
½ tsp Coriander, ground
2 medium Apples, diced, unpeeled
2 large Bananas, diced
1½ cups (375 mL) Compliments tomatoes, diced
1 cup (250 mL) Chicken broth, sodium reduced
1 cup (250 mL) Compliments Balance yogurt, plain

Directions:
1. In a large saucepan on high, heat oil and add chicken pieces and sauté until browning occurs. Repeat with remaining chicken pieces if necessary. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

2. Reduce heat to medium; add onion and garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes then add curry, turmeric, cumin and coriander. Sauté for 3-4 minutes.

3. Add apples, bananas, tomatoes and chicken broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes.

4. Add chicken pieces and simmer another 20-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through. Stir in yogurt and serve.

Nutrition Information per Serving (¾ cup + 75 g chicken):
Calories: 231
Fat: 7 grams
Carbohydrate: 20 grams
Fibre: 2 grams
Protein: 21 grams
Sodium: 308 milligrams

Source: Sobeys Dietitians

"Do what is in your heart"...

...words of wisdom contributed by special guest, Neville MacKay:

They say there’s no such thing as a “stupid” question. Well, I was once asked a question that was pretty much as close to stupid as one could get. Well, more ignorant than stupid, I guess. I was asked why I would ever want to get involved with anything to do with breast cancer… now, those that know me know that I may not be what you’d call a shy petal and can usually come up with something to say pretty quickly.

I was totally floored by this question, so I asked the lady why she would think to ask it in the first place. To my surprise and horror, she decided that since I probably have no interest in ladies anyway, she couldn't understand why I would lend support to a cause as feminine as this...Can you believe it?!

I was SO peeved, and I didn’t take long for me to let her know it either!

I, in my most loving and thoughtful way possible, explained to this poor, unfortunate lady that although I do not find a lady’s breasts sexually appealing, it doesn’t mean that I don’t love women! I have a mother, sisters in laws, friends, colleagues, etc… Oh, and I have a pair of breasts myself! (Sadly, mine are bigger than many ladies’ lately…)

I mean really, who doesn’t know someone with breast cancer? I know of more women fighting breast cancer every day it seems and they are, for the most part, incredible women. And, let’s not forget the men that are impacted by this terrible disease. Men can, and do, get it also, not to mention they are right there, suffering alongside their partners, friends, mothers and daughters.

In the end, I think I convinced this woman that it was OK for me, of ALL people, to offer my support and help where I can.

The point is, no one will ever stop me from doing what I know is right. Ever! And I encourage the same from all of you. Do what is in your hearts and you’ll make an incredible difference…one person at a time.

Recipe Day! Chai Chocolate Almond Biscotti

Chai Chocolate Almond Biscotti

36 Servings

Ingredients:
1/2 c (125 mL) unsalted butter, at room temperature
3/4 c (175 mL) Granulated sugar
1/4 c (60 mL) Packaged dark brown sugar
2 Large eggs
1 tbsp Vanilla extract
2 c (500 mL) Compliments all-purpose flour
1/2 c (125 mL) Compliments cocoa
1 1/2 tsp Baking powder
1 tsp Ginger
1/2 tsp each ground cardamom, cinnamon and salt
1 c (250 mL) Compliments slivered almonds

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. With an electric mixer, beat butter with sugars until pale and fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla and blend well.

2.Sift together flour, cocoa, baking powder, spices and salt. Stir flour mixture into butter mixture until blended. Stir in almonds. Shape cookie dough into 2 logs and place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 3 inches (8 cm) between logs. Press lightly to flatten slightly. Bake 40 min. Remove from oven.

3.Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (160°C) and line a second baking sheet with parchment paper. While still warm, slice 1/2-inch (1 cm) biscotti on the bias with a serrated knife. Place on baking sheet. Bake 12 to 15 min. until lightly browned around the edges. Biscotti will firm up further as they cool.

 
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 100
Fat: 4 grams
Carbohydrates:13 grams
Protein: 2 grams

Source: http://www.compliments.ca/ and Sobeys Dieticians

Happy Holidays!

Last Friday, the staff at the IWK and QEII Foundations gathered to enjoy the laughter and friendship that help make this time of year so special. We're wishing that you, too make plenty of time for this over the next several days as you celebrate the holidays and ring in a new year.

A warm and sincere thanks for the support you have given us in 2009, not just to our joint venture Bust a Move but in all the ways you contribute to the spirit of philanthrophy in this wonderful province of ours.

From all of us at the IWK Foundation and the QEII Foundation

Gift Idea

Joan Helson has a suggestion for what to get the last person on your Christmas shopping list:

As Seen on Breakfast Television

Those of your who are early risers (or at least, early morning TV watchers) may have seen some members of the Bust a Move team having some laughs and breaking a sweat with Breakfast Television co-host Cyril Lunney today.

We were demonstrating to all BT viewers that the six hours of exercise planned for Bust a Move is really going to be a fun and energizing experience that anyone of any fitness level can be a part of.

In case you missed the show this morning, here's a peak at what we were up to:

There's still plenty of time to register as a participant and get started on your fundraising, too. The more the merrier!

Community Heals

Recently, the Bust a Move team spent some time talking with Joan Helson, a breast cancer survivor and Bust a Move participant. Joan is a strong and inspirational woman. She reminds us why the cause we're raising money for is so important and why the time all of our staff, participants, sponsors and volunteers are investing in making Bust a Move a success is absolutley, positively worth it.

Please take a few minutes to listen to what Joan has to say:

"Sweat till your underwear is wet"

In case you missed it, renowned fitness guru and Bust a Move celebrity instructor Richard Simmons was interviewed by Starr Dobson on CTV's Live a 5 recently.

We cannot wait to see Richard and his short shorts at the Halifax Metro Centre on January 30th and are thrilled that CTV shared this clip with us, because everyone should see this interview! Enjoy!!

Recipe Day! Five Spice Chicken

Five Spice Chicken

Serves 4

Ingredients:
2 tbsp Lemon juice
1 tbsp Compliments canola oil
2 tsp Compliments honey
1 tsp Chinese five spice
½ tsp Pepper, black, freshly cracked
0.8 lb / 400 g Chicken breast, boneless, skinless

Directions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk all ingredients except chicken.

2. Leave chicken breast whole or cut into pieces and add to bowl, turning to coat well with marinate. Marinade in fridge for 5-10 minutes to develop flavor (can marinate longer if desired).

3. In a large non-stick skillet (oven proof if available) on high heat, add chicken and brown on each side. Do in batches if needed. Drain pan and return chicken to skillet or place on baking pan. Roast at 425° F for 20-30 minutes or until chicken is done.

Nutrition Information per Serving (75 grams chicken):
Calories: 154
Fat: 5 grams
Carbohydrate: 3 grams
Fibre: 0 grams
Protein: 23 grams
Sodium: 56 milligrams

Source: Sobeys Dietitians

Chantal Kreviazuk talks Bust a Move!

Between participants and volunteers, the BAM movement now includes more than 750 people! And those 750 people are talking about the event, the cause and their involvement to almost every person they encounter, from friends and colleagues, to neighbours and clients.

We know people are talking and we're so grateful for that. Yet, we were still completely surprised to find out that even Canadian singer-songwriter Chantal Kreviazuk has something to say about Bust a Move. Let's listen:



Wow, thanks for your support Chantal!!

Participant Awards Revealed!

We're working on adding to your Bust a Move event day experience with sweet prizes, swag and goodies from our sponsors, that much we've mentioned before. But we're revealing here today that six awards will be given out, too!! So read on and take notes...you may want to start plotting for your eligibility now!

1. Top individual fundraiser
Awarded to the single participant who, as the award suggests, raises the most money. This will be based on the final tally once event day registration closes the morning of January 30th.

2. Top team fundraiser
Awarded to the team comprised of individuals who collectively achieve fundraising excellence! Specifically, this is defined as the highest average amount raised per person, which means the size of the team doesn't necessarily guarantee a win!

3. Best dressed individual
The individual who displays the best sense style will receive this noteworthy title. Here's the catch: there's no theme and no evaluation criteria. Interpretation of "best dressed" will be completely subjective and that's because we want to encourage your creativity and individuality!
All participants wanting to be eligible for this award will need to visit the designated photo booth sometime before noon, then all photos will be posted in the sponsor lounge and this special group of folks will vote for their favorite!

4. Best dressed team
Same rules as #3 apply here. The only difference is that unity among team members is strongly encouraged! How you go about that coordination, however, is entirely up to you.

5. Most creative fashion bra
Put your thinking cap on and design your own bra, which you'll proudly display over top of your shirt for all to see, of course! Pom poms, pipe cleaners, dried flowers, cotton balls, Cheerios, crayons, you name, you can use it. Glue it, sew it, cut it, design it...the options are endless!

The photo booth will be to capture candidates for this award too, except the members of the judging panel will not being revealed ahead of time.

6. Star performer award
Awarded to an individual (volunteer or participant) who has epitomized “360 degree involvement” and demonstrated leadership, tenacity and dedication to Bust a Move.

Candidates will be selected by the Bust a Move team and announced online on January 15th. Public voting for candidates will then be available until January 29th at 12 noon AST.

Good luck!

Lululemon Offers Team Discounts!!

Among the many local businesses supporting Bust a Move is luluemon athletica; a retail business with an admirable commitment to health and wellness. They're passionate about people, athleticism, quality and possibility. And this winter, the Halifax store is investing their passion in Bust a Move, in more ways than one!

They have a team five participants. They are giving out postcards and wallet cards to interested customers. They are planning in-store fundraising events for January, including a silent auction and a six-hour yoga marathon. And this past Saturday, they welcomed two BAM volunteers to become part of their "pant wall" as live mannequins, drawing the attention of many curious shoppers in the store that afternoon! The staff were so excited about having a Bust a Move presence in the store, they busted into a dance on the folding table and were yelling out one-liners about their anticipation of the January event!

But we've saved the best news for last. Lululemon is sharing their BAM love with all teams of participants! That's right, all registered participants who are part of a team are eligible for the following in-store savings:

Team of 2-10 members - Save 10%
Teams of 11-24 members - Save 20%
Teams of 25+ members - Save 30%

Discounts apply to one tank and one pair of pants per person purchased at the Halifax store. In order to receive their discount, participants must first email their team name and the list of their team members to Liz Johnson.

On behalf of all participants, a huge THANK YOU to lululemon for creating this special offer! Happy shopping everyone!

"Six hours of movement, inspiring movement"

It's only two weeks 'till Christmas, can you believe it?! Since all of our minds are inevitably starting to wander to the presents, treats, nog and loved ones that are in our near future, we thought we'd cap off the week with somethin special.

While lights are sparkling and carolers are singing, our participant success stories are multiplying, the strength of our community is building, and the heart and soul behind Bust a Move is becoming more powerful with each passing day. One of the best things about all of that - besides saving lives, of course - is that it gives us a really awesome story to tell.

So, with the fun of storytelling and the distraction of the holidays in mind, we've put together this video for a Friday treat. We hope it reminds you that we're part of something bigger than ourselves...and, that Saturday, January 30th is going to be SO MUCH FUN!

Recipe Day! Brazilian Black Bean Stew

Brazilian Black Bean Stew

Serves 6

Ingredients:
1 tbsp Compliments extra virgin olive oil
½ cup (125 mL) Onion, chopped
3 cloves Garlic, fresh, diced
2 tbsp Cumin, ground
1 large Red pepper, diced
2 cups (500 mL) Sweet potato, peeled, cubed
1 can (796 mL) Pastene Italian tomatoes, whole
2 small Jalapeno peppers, seeded, diced
1 cup (250 mL) Water
1 sprig Thyme, fresh
1 can (541 mL) Black beans, drained, rinsed
2 medium Mangoes, diced
2 tbsp Cilantro, chopped
¼ tsp Black pepper
6 tbsp Sour cream, fat-free

Directions:
1. On medium heat, add oil to a large saucepan and sauté onion, garlic cumin until onions are tender. Stir in pepper and sweet potatoes.

2. Mix in tomatoes, jalapeno and water. Bring to a boil and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Add thyme once simmer for a few minutes.

3. Stir in black beans and simmer until beans are heated. Add mango, cilantro and pepper, stir well. Garnish with a tbsp of sour cream per serving.

Nutrition Information per Serving (1 cup):
Calories: 220
Fat: 3 grams
Carbohydrate: 41 grams
Fibre: 8 grams
Protein: 8 grams
Sodium: 352 milligrams

Source: Chef Thomas Burchell and Sobeys Dietitians, 2007

Wear It With Pride

If you're a Bust a Move participant and you network online, why not save this Bust a Move badge to your computer. Then upload it to one (or all!) of your profiles to proudly tell the world: YOU are bustin' it for breast health!

Thanks to the HalifaxChicks team who created and were the first ones to use this lovely badge!

Growing Support

Starting today, keep an eye out for this Bust a Move promotional clip airing on A Channel.



A huge THANK YOU to Maria and all the folks at A Channel and CTV for their amazing, ongoing support of the inaugural Bust a Move for Breast Health!

News Flash #2

Live outside the downtown core? Worried about the possibility of white stuff getting in the way of your drive to the Metro Centre on January 30th? Want to expand this amazing experience into a weekend getaway? Want to get your team members together for a pre-event sleepover?

If you answered "Yes!" to any or all of these questions, you'll want to make note of this new and exciting Bust a Move detail:

The Prince George Hotel and Cambridge Suites Halifax are pleased to offer special rates to all participants of Bust a Move for the nights of January 29th and 30th:

The Prince George Hotel - $119 per night

Cambridge Suites Halifax - $109 per night

Be sure to identify yourself as a Bust a Move participant when making your reservation and these rates are yours!

Pilates to Pumpkins: Nova Scotia in the Guinness World Records® Book

Make room, pumpkins, there’s a new attempt afoot to set some Guinness World Records and once again add Nova Scotia to the coveted list. Bust a Move for Breast Health, a fundraising fitness extravaganza set for January 30, 2010, at the Halifax Metro Centre, is going to attempt a pair of GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS® records: the largest Pilates class and the most people hugging.

“Nova Scotia is already in the Guinness World Records book with the longest running pumpkin boat race,” said Bust a Move Event Chair, Marie Mullally, “We’re going to add two more, have a lot of fun doing it and at the same time raise the money needed to purchase digital mammography equipment that will help diagnose breast cancer earlier. It’s a win-win-win!”

In order to achieve these new records and raise additional funds for digital mammography in the fight against breast cancer, organizers are urging Nova Scotians to register as a participant and become part of history.

Danny Girton Jr., an adjudicator with Guinness World Records, is planning to be at the event in January as an official representative of Guinness World Records to verify the world records as they are set. “It’s certainly a feather-in-the-cap for Nova Scotia,” said Girton. “Setting a world record helps put your province on the world stage and the records you hope to set in January have the added allure of going towards a truly wonderful and noble cause – the battle against breast cancer.”

While the province’s annual Pumpkin Regatta and Parade is held each year in Windsor, N.S. on Lake Pesaquid, participants at Bust a Move will attempt to set new world records indoors at the Halifax Metro Centre. They’ll have the added experience of music, jumbo video screens and Hollywood fitness celebrity Richard Simmons present. Despite the focus on fitness, organizers are promising would-be record setters that the event is designed for participants of all degrees of experience and fitness levels.

“It’s going to be an uplifting, exciting and tremendously fun day,” says Mullally, “We’re creating the perfect atmosphere to set world records and take a huge step forward in the fight against breast cancer.”

She encourages every Nova Scotian to visit the event website at www.bustamove.ca to find out more.

I'll Huff, And I'll Puff!

As contributed by guest writer, Neville MacKay:

Wow, am I ever excited about Bust A Move! Now, you all know by looking at me that I MUST spend all of my spare time at the gym! I indeed, DO, spend all of my “spare time” there…you see, I have no spare time at all. So, when all this marathon exercising, Pilates, yoga, and dear knows what else came into my life, I was faced with yet again a very important question…WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?!?

I mean really, if you can’t hide it, flaunt it! So, I’ll find the short shorts (with tights underneath!) and get going along with the rest of you! I’ve heard some lazy old so and so’s moan that they aren’t fit enough to do this…well, LOOK AT ME!! I’m going to do what I do best for this fundraiser and that is to try! That’s all I can do, and the power of trying will always work! I’d rather try and have a blast laughing, sweating and cheering with a fun crowd than sitting at home doing nothing but eating cheesies and watching TV.

This will be a fun day! I intend to get people motivated, inspired and hopefully laughing along with me as we sail and sweat to success!! I look forward to seeing you all there…THANK YOU ALL in advance for sharing this day with me! I can’t wait!

We know Neville isn't the only one thinking about what to wear on January 30th! If you're handy with a sewing machine, or know someone who is, you might even consider making a visit to Walmart or Fabricville, buying a $5 pattern and going for a Do-It-Yourself 80s style....

Dancing in the Street!

We're so beyond excited to bust a move that we can't help but shout it from the rooftops, run up to strangers on the street, and burst into random bouts of fitness throughout Halifax!

No seriously. That's exactly what we've been doing.

Except for the rooftops part. That would be dangerous.

Armed with our sought after Bust a Move Stretch Guide, bright pink t-shirts, free weights, jump ropes, and one strange tension arm exerciser thing that no one really knew what to do with, our Street Team volunteers surprised shoppers and commuters alike with an unexpected dose of energy and inspiration.

From Halifax Shopping Centre to the Ferry Terminal, from Pete's to the Farmer's Market. With fitness routines and cheers, our street teams engaged hundreds of people and got the energy pumping around town for what's going to be an unforgettable day for all Nova Scotians.

Huge thanks to all of our volunteers and everyone who stopped to say 'Hi!'. We appreciate the support more than you know and we can't wait to see you all again in January.

Maybe It's Time...

....For YOU to Bust a Move!

Wondering if the Bust a Move fitness program is going to give you the results you're looking for? We've pulled together a little something to demonstrate that, Yes, indeed!, this is going to be a workout unlike any other!

What a Party!

In case you haven't heard, there were a lot of people bubbling with excitement at the Prince George Hotel last Thursday evening. We called the event a participant recruitment rally, but what we really should have called it was a party!

Picture music, mood lighting, balloons, flowers, food, and lots of laughs! We had 90+ attendees and we're pretty confident they all told at least one other person about the fun they had. That's because our fitness instructors had everyone on their feet, partaking in 90-second samples of each of the six hours of exercise being planned for January 30th.

This included some relaxation poses from the yoga hour....

Recreation of the flash mob routine to the hip hop song "Bust a Move", sampling the Empower Hour

(this song has become our unofficial anthem, by the way)....

And even some high energy, hip shaking Zumba moves.

If the enthusiasm of this crowd was any indication, we really are going to blow the roof off the Metro Centre on January 30th.

Hard to believe that's exactly two months from today, isn't it?! We have 367 men and women registered so far and are positive we're going to crest 500 in the next couple of weeks. That's going to be one massive, record-breaking exercise class!!

We'll continue to register participants up until mid-January and can take up to 1,000 people, so keep spreading the word.

Here's to being two months away from making Nova Scotia history - CHEERS!

Participant Perspective

Recently, I had a chance to ask a few Bust a Move participants why they were taking on the challenge.

Here's what they said:

A big thanks to Audrey Kralovec, Wendy Vandervaart and Carol Ann Fullerton!

------------------
By Laura, from the Bust a Move team

You're Invited

If you haven't already signed up to participate in Bust a Move, please join us this Thursday evening, November 26th for a Bust a Move Participant Rally.

There will be fabulous door prizes, brief presentations about exciting aspects of the event, and of course snacks and refreshments for all.

Find out what makes Bust a Move such an amazing opportunity to unite in support of world class breast health services, then make your commitment to get involved!

Thursday, November 26th at 6:30 p.m.

Windsor Room, Prince George Hotel

1725 Market Street, Halifax

Please RSVP to jill@bustamove.ca

Ditch the Workout...

....Join the Party!

This is Zumba's tagline and, as I found out Friday night, there couldn't be a more accurate description of this one-of-a-kind workout. From 7:30 - 9:00 p.m. at the YMCA on South Park St., I participated in a mega Zumba class that was open to the public.

I arrived having heard about the Zumba craze, of course, and having been told that a Zumba hour as part of Bust a Move is a must have. I can believe the hype....but to really buy in to it, I had to see it for myself. And see it I did. Plain and simple, Zumba will Rock Your World.

The crowd of 100 or so bopped, stomped, swayed and wiggled through those 90 minutes without a single moan, groan or glance at the clock. They clapped, cheered, hooted and hollered. And sweat?! Holy, this workout had everybody in there dripping in no time. But, again, without a single complaint! Instead, bums were out, hands were up, hips were gyrating. For one song, the room was split in half and a full fledged dance battle ensued.

The place looked like a dance club on a Saturday night, except the drink of choice was water and no one was worried about how cool or sexy they looked. They were there to shake their tail feathers and nothin' else mattered!

I have never seen anything like it...and I've been to a lot of fitness classes.

Now, as a bit of a disclaimer, I'll tell you that this class was led by two instructors from California, who were in Halifax for the weekend training some 80+ new Zumba instructors in all-day workshops. They ARE Zumba - you should see these two move! - and what they took the crowd through Friday night was a little more gruelling than the regular weekly classes at the Y, Dalplex or GoodLife Fitness.

But from what others tell me, those classes are a little more accessible and just as much fun!

If you like to dance or love a good beat, this is absolutely the workout for you! If you're like me and miss the days of bustin' a move on the dance floor every weekend but have outgrown that scene a little (or a lot), you must add Zumba to your life. I'm currently debating whether to buy the DVD collection or become a Y member just so I can Zumba multiple times a week!

I encourage you all to check out the Zumba website, look Zumba up on You Tube, or read this article from a few weeks ago, which proves the Zumba craze is alive and well right here in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Now what are you waiting for? Ditch the workout, join the party!

--------------------------------
Laura Melanson, member of the Bust a Move team

News Flash

Only 10 weeks to go before we unite for six hours of movin' and groovin' exercise at the Halifax Metro Centre...can you believe it?!

The Bust a Move team is so proud of everyone's fundraising efforts, we've decided to chip in a little somethin' extra to boost your spirits and renew your perseverance. We're happy to announce a new fundraising incentive program:

If you raise between $1,001 and $2,500...you'll be entered into a draw for a $500 gift card to Future Shop!

If you raise between $2,501 and $4,000...you'll be entered into a draw for a $1,000 gift card to Future Shop!

If you raise $4,001 or more...you'll be entered into a draw for a $1,500 gift card to Future Shop!

Remember, Future Shop has everything from CDs to iPod accessories, from laptops to printers, from digital cameras to kitchen appliances. And so much more! You can even use your gift card to shop online.

The incentive program will be based on the final tally of each individual's funds. Winners will be contacted the week of February 1, 2010.

A Sweet Fundraiser

A bake sale is a fairly traditional fundraising idea, right? It probably goes, I dunno, waaaay back. Well last week team Twin Peaks took baking for breast health to new heights.

For four hours, they set up an eye-catching, mouth-watering bake sale in the lobby of the BMO building on the corner of Hollis and George. There were cupcakes, cookies, squares, brownies. Single treats, double treats, trays of treats. Even a whole pan of Skor-inspired squares that for $10 would've made someone's weekend a whole lot more decadent. See them right on the end of the table, tempting you?

One team member even managed to make a few phone calls and secure a handful of lovely prizes that the team sold raffle tickets on.

Four hours later, team Twin Peaks was a whopping $830 closer to their fundraising goal! Some secrets to their success:

1. The bake sale was on a Friday, when people are probably a little more willing to indulge, and continued until after lunch, when dessert can be hard to resist!

2. A couple posters (which the BAM team will happily provide if you email us) and signs went a long way to making the set up colorful and attention-grabbing.

3. A bouquet of fuchsia and purple balloons didn't hurt either...two or three would do!

4. The sale was staffed by several Twin Peak-ers, who made a point to talk to every person who walked by and asked for their support with a smile.

By the Numbers

In the four weeks since the launch of Bust a Move for Breast Health, we’ve been crunching the numbers and wow, what a great story they tell!

• 478 Facebook group members and 50 wall posts to the group
• 139 followers on Twitter and hundreds of mentions of “bustamove”
• Videos of the BAM flash mob have been viewed more than 45,000 times – and that’s only counting the videos that are hosted on the BAM You Tube channel.
• The largest team of BAM participants so far is The Johnson Pointer Sisters – they have 20 registered members. Audrey's Rack Pack is at a close second with 17 members.
• The top fundraising team is the Foundation Busty Movers, they’ve raised more than $8,000.
• The top fundraising individual is Chris Power, she’s raised $2,650! Carol Ann Fullerton is a close second with $2,042.

It’s great to see Nova Scotians rally together for such an important cause! The stats on why it’s warranted tell their own story:

• 700 women in Nova Scotia are diagnosed with breast cancer every year.
• It accounts for 40% of cancer diagnoses and 25% of cancer-related deaths in this province.
• With just one digital mammography machine, technicians can complete up to 3,700 mammograms in a year.
• Compared to non-digital equipment, that's a 75% improvement in efficiency.
• This increased capacity is desperately needed because only 55% of Nova Scotia women over 50 are having regular mammograms.
• The national target is for this participation rate to be at least 70%.
• Studies show that after screening 70% of a total population the breast cancer deaths will decrease by 30%.
• Images produced with digital equipment are so clear, abnormalities only millimeters in size can be seen, all while using 40% less radiation.

Thanks to everyone for their amazing support so far!
The Bust a Move Team

We Need YOU

Six members of the Bust a Move team recently spent the afternoon in a CTV studio putting together a personal appeal for our fellow Nova Scotians. Listen in on what the team has to say:

The purchase of one new digital mammography machine will increase capacity by 75%, allowing 3,700 more women to be screened in the run of a year. Digital screening of breast tissue allows for the early detection of breast cancer. Early detection saves lives.

Bust a Move represents an opportunity to make a big difference in our small corner of the world. Opportunities like that don't come along every day. If you haven't already signed up to be a participant, please do so. Then encourage two people you know to join you.

Worried about raising $1,000?

This week, I'll introduce a number of people who were pleasantly surprised when they raised hundreds of dollars in a matter of days. You won't know it's possible until you try....and the Bust a Move team is here to support you along the way.

Worried about exercising for six hours?
Saturday, January 30th will be a day of entertainment, fun, laughter, and unity. You can take breaks when you need them and go at your own pace. We're asking you to be active - however best you can - for one day on behalf of the hundreds of women around the province who are fighting breast cancer right now and can't.

-----------
- Laura, member of the Bust a Move team

The one, the only...

In case you're wondering whether Richard Simmons is still as energetic, enthusiastic and just plain over the top as you remember him being in the 80s, check out this clip of him making his entrance on David Letterman! We can not wait too see him bust a move with us at the Halifax Metro Centre on January 30th!

Seeing this in person might even be reason enough to sign up as participant...never mind the prizes, excitment, groovin', shakin' and Guinness record-breakin' we already have in store.

Keep Your Eye on the Bright Spots

As promised, we're happy to introduce the first contribution from guest writer (and BAM ambassador!) That Bloomin' Neville:

I see all sorts of emotions here in our Flower Shop. I’ve seen the joy in a persons’ face after becoming a grandmother for the first time, the excitement of a Bride-to-be, and the sadness brought on by the loss of a loved one.

One of the most powerful things I have had the privilege of experiencing is seeing and feeling the strength and determination that comes from a breast cancer fighter. Wow, if we could only harness it, that energy could save the world!

I remember vividly the day I sat with a young lady to talk about her wedding flowers. The date was bumped up, and since she was so excited, I started to assume she was expecting a child…not so, she was expecting to lose her hair. She had just started getting her head around having surgery, chemo, and all that goes with it. The thing that stood out for me was how positive she was! She was having nothing to do with all the negativity surrounding what was to come and was totally focusing on all the good in life. She, truly, was the most beautiful Bride I had ever met.

She passed away some time after her wonderful wedding. I am SO thankful that our paths had crossed, and am thankful for this incredible opportunity. She knew things weren’t great, at least SOME things weren’t, and chose to focus on what was wonderful!

There is ALWAYS something good out there, we just have to look for it sometimes.
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Let us know: what bright spots in your life are you focusing on today?

Lucky Us!

November has gotten off to a great start for the BAM team - we've been delighted and energized this week by the involvement of yet another remarkable Haligonian who has stepped up to support our cause. Neville MacKay, of My Mother's Bloomers fame, has built up quite a fan base by using laughter, positivity and beautiful blooms to brighten the days of everyone he encounters.

At our first in-person meeting, Neville lived up to his reputation in no time! I was greeted with a beaming smile, a big squeeze and a bouquet. If only every meeting started that way!

Over a coffee for me and a tea for him we covered off on our latest movie-going experiences, the importance of online community-building, and the ways in which he'll be supporting BAM. Of course, he also entertained me with a few stories and anecdotes, including one about the time he created many, many breast-like mounds as centerpieces for a breast cancer event.

Breast cancer is a cause Neville cares a heck of a lot about. And lucky for us, that means he's happy to help make BAM a success by sharing his laughter, positivity and blooms with all of us.

For starters, he'll be featured here as a guest blogger and will provide a beautiful arrangement or two for us to feast our eyes on at the Metro Centre come January 30th. But the most exciting news is that one of the prizes BAM participants will have an opportunity to win will be A Night With Neville (and David)!

This special evening for a group of up to 20 people will include:

• Neville giving you a How-to lesson in the latest trends in floral design
• The guitar and vocal talents of David MacFarlane
• Neville and David telling stories, sharing experiences and making you laugh 'till it hurts
• And of course, flowers for everyone in attendance!

So the lucky winner will get to celebrate their BAM accomplishments by bringing a group together to enjoy wine, snacks and these two charming fellows. What fun! Not to mention, this is a prize valued at over $3,000!  

A great kick-start to the month indeed...we hope you're as excited to welcome Neville to the BAM family as we are! :-)

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Neville keeps busy with writing for Duly Noted and Lifestyle Maritimes, motivational speaking, entering and judging floral competitions, being featured on C100 and on CTV's Breakfast Television, and giving back to the community.

No One Said Trailblazing Was Easy

Over the last two weeks, the energy and enthusiasm around Bust a Move has grown exponentially. Everyone involved is thrilled to see the buzz spreading like wildfire; you should be too! This event is going to be a first for our region. It is going to change lives and save lives, in just one day.

Every dollar raised is going directly to the cause, plain and simple. The significance of that? We're going to purchase new digital mammography equipment, like the one you see here.

Each machine costs $750,000. No, I didn't add an extra zero by mistake. The truth is, we have a big wallet to fill before we can buy this equipment. But the energy everyone will put into reaching their fundraising goals will be worth it.

The equipment we buy will be used to complete 3,700 mammograms each year. That's a 75% improvement in efficiency over what older, analog machines are capable of. It means that your mom, sister, best friend, even you, could benefit from a shorter wait time for a screening appointment.

And it gets better.

Every woman who is screened using this leading edge equipment has more of a fighting chance against breast cancer. It produces images so clear, abnormailities in breast tissue can be seen when they are only millimetres in size. And since early detection is the only thing proven to reduce breast cancer mortality rates, we're challenging you - and ourselves - to fundraise like never before. And you've already stepped up.

Within the last week, one participant reached her target in four days! Another raised $800 by tapping into his online network alone, while one team set a recruitment target of 25 members! Inspirational stories from people going above and beyond what they've ever done before are starting to pour in, and we promise to continue to share them with you. 

Is a $1,000 fundraising target easy? Heck no. But can we all do it? You betcha!

Grooving, shaking, Guinness-Record Breaking Event Takes Aim at Breast Cancer

Halifax is set to host a unique fundraising event where participants will raise pledges to support breast cancer digital mammography, and in a mass participant, six-hour fitness extravaganza attempt to break a pair of Guinness World Records. Bust a Move for Breast Health, jointly hosted by the IWK Foundation and the QEII Foundation, will hit the Halifax Metro Centre January 30, 2010 with a spectacle of music, video and special celebrity guests.

This home-grown event was officially launched today at the Halifax Metro Centre where volunteer event chair Marie Mullally and representatives from the IWK Foundation and the QEII Foundation, breast cancer patients, advocates and event volunteers came together to detail the event, outline the need for digital mammography, and announce a special celebrity guest who will be making a first-ever visit to Nova Scotia to appear at the event.

“This is not only a truly unique, heart-pounding event for Halifax,” said Marie Mullally at today’s launch, “but also a wonderful opportunity to truly advance breast cancer diagnosis here in Nova Scotia with the purchase of digital mammography equipment.”

Promising a show the likes of which Halifax has never seen before, Mullally also promised to deliver a six-hour exercise program anyone can accomplish – at any fitness level. “We have some of the best fitness instructors in the city who will be leading us at the event,” she said, “and perhaps the most famous fitness guru of all – none other than Richard Simmons himself.” The Hollywood fitness celebrity is scheduled to make his first visit to Nova Scotia for the January event.

“I’m all about helping people,” Simmons recently told event supporters, “so I can’t wait to come to Halifax to support this amazing cause and bust a move with all of you! I teach people to eat right, exercise and, just as important, to keep a positive attitude. Be sure to bring your energy and enthusiasm on January 30th and let’s get ready to sweat!”

For the partners bringing the event to life, the QEII Foundation and the IWK Foundation, Bust a Move for Breast Health offers an opportunity to further build plans for world-leading breast health with the acquisition of digital mammography equipment that will increase capacity to screen for breast cancer and improve the images captured during the mammography process.

“Every day in Nova Scotia, a woman dies of breast cancer,” said Sherry Porter, chair of the QEII Foundation Board of Trustees and a breast cancer survivor, “and we want to change that horrible statistic, beginning with acquiring the very best in digital mammography equipment. Beating breast cancer begins with early diagnosis, and digital mammography is the best tool for the job. I encourage everyone out there to go to www.bustamove.ca , read about the event and register to participate.”

To save those lives, Bust a Move attendees will first fundraise to meet the event goals, and then spend a day at the Halifax Metro Centre participating in one of the largest mass exercise events in Nova Scotia’s history. The day promises fabulous prizes, yoga, Pilates, Zumba, a Maritime fitness “kitchen party” and a signature “Bust a Move Power Hour” – with the added challenge of attempting to break some Guinness World Records in the process.

We MIGHT be responsible for this....

A certain performance caused a bit of a stir over the lunch hour at Halifax Shopping Centre on Tuesday, October 20. We're not saying we know something about it....but we're not saying we don't either.








Stay tuned for some more big reveals!

You Want It?

You got it...You want it? Baby, you got it.

The QEII Foundation and IWK Foundation are set to unveil a groovin', shakin', Guinness Record-breakin' fundraising event that will change breast health services in Nova Scotia.

Check back on Thursday, October 22nd, when details will be revealed...you won't believe who's bringing his shortest shorts to Halifax!