Meet the North Country BetterU Participants: Erin Fazio

My name is Erin Fazio.  I have a family history of heart disease and diabetes.  Both of my grandfathers passed away from heart attacks and I have an uncle who suffered multiple strokes and a heart attack.  My father under went an emergency quadruple bypass when he was only 46.  I also have diabetes and a history of … Read more

Meet the North Country BetterU Participants: Rose Busler

I’ve been married to my high school sweetheart for 34 years. We have two children and are empty nesters. We enjoy traveling. Some of the things I hope to achieve through this program include becoming healthier by learning to shop, cook and exercise smart! I have tried many diets and exercise plans to stay in shape … Read more

North Country women selected for BetterU health challenge

The second Go Red For Women BetterU Challenge is underway in the North Country. Go Red BetterU an innovative initiative that will chronicle local women’s journey toward meaningful lifestyle changes that improve their heart health. The 12-week Go Red BetterU program is designed to remind all women of the need to make healthy lifestyle choices. The North … Read more

American Heart Association hopes Governor’s economic investment plans include healthy food options for all

The American Heart Association responded to Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s State of the State today. “Creating jobs and improving health could go hand in hand, especially by opening supermarkets in poor neighborhoods,” said Bob Elling, chair of the American Heart Association’s New York State Advocacy Committee, paramedic and paramedic instructor at Hudson Valley Community College. “The … Read more

Leeana Karlson to Emcee Long Island Go Red For Women Luncheon

The American Heart Association is excited to announce that Leeana Karlson, Co-host of the Morning Show with Steve & Leeana on K98.3 every weekday will emcee this year’s Long Island Go Red For Women Luncheon.  The Luncheon will be taking place on Wednesday, February 11, 2015 at thye crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury. Leeana … Read more

Stroke Drops to No. 5 Cause of Death in U.S.

Stroke has dropped from the nation’s fourth-leading cause of death to No. 5, according to new federal statistics. It is the second time since 2011 that stroke has dropped a spot in the mortality rankings. According to the latest Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report, stroke swapped positions with unintentional injuries, which killed 1,579 … Read more

Stroke Drops to No. 5 Cause of Death in U.S.

Stroke has dropped from the nation’s fourth-leading cause of death to No. 5, according to new federal statistics. It is the second time since 2011 that stroke has dropped a spot in the mortality rankings. According to the latest Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report, stroke swapped positions with unintentional injuries, which killed 1,579 … Read more

Make this holiday healthier for your family

The holiday season is about family traditions and making memories that last a lifetime.  But many of these traditions involve food such as hosting cookie-baking parties, making gingerbread houses, or making a favorite entrée or side dish.  Traditions are meant to be passed along from generation to generation.  By tweaking your recipes you and your … Read more

BARBARA POLIWODA RECEIVES ROME BETTS AWARD FROM AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION

Barbara Poliwoda, Regional Director for the American Heart Association and Long Island resident was awarded the Rome Betts Award of Excellence at a recent American Heart Association meeting. The Rome Betts Award of Excellence was created in memory of the executive director of the American Heart Association from 1949 to 1968. Mr. Betts became national … Read more

Long Islanders Invited To Fourteenth Annual Long Island American Heart Association “Go Red For Women” Luncheon

It’s that time of year again.  Men and women from across Long Island will be getting all of their red outfits and accessories ready for the American Heart Association’s 14th Annual Long Island Go Red For Women Luncheon.  Heart disease and stroke are the No. 1 and No. 4 killers of Long Island women. For … Read more

Protect your heart in the cold and snow

With cold temperatures and lots of snow falling in Central New York, the American Heart Association is warning people to protect their hearts in the cold weather. People who may be at high risk include those with existing heart disease or stroke, people with a strong family history, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smokers, those … Read more

American Heart Association accepting applications for Community Impact Grants

For the first time, the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association is now accepting applications for Community Impact Grants online. Community Impact Grants help local organizations start or continue programs that have a positive impact on the heart health of the Greater Utica area. The American Heart Association/American Stroke Association has recognized the need to fund … Read more

KEEP EXERCISING DURING WINTER TO PREVENT HEART DISEASE

When winter blows in, don’t pull the blankets over your head and go back to sleep! Suit up to head out for an outdoor winter adventure! The American Heart Association recommends that everyone get 30 minutes of heart healthy exercise most days of the week—even during winter—to help prevent heart disease, the nation’s number one … Read more

American Heart Association announces new Go Red For Women chairwoman

The American Heart Association has a new volunteer leader for the Go Red For Women campaign. Local business leader Evelyn Carter has been announced as the next volunteer chair for the 2014-2015 Go Red For Women campaign, including the Go Red For Women Luncheon set for the fall of 2015. Carter will lead the organization’s … Read more

One Day a Year, What You Wear is a Matter of Life and Death

Twelfth Annual National Wear Red Day is February 6, 2015 “How do you go red?” asks the American Heart Association. On Friday, February 6, 2015, people from across Long Island, as well as corporations, businesses, hospitals, towns, schools, local and state legislators, members of the media, teachers, and people from all walks of life will … Read more

Heart healthy tips for your Thanksgiving meal

Thanksgiving is about enjoying time with our family and celebrating with traditional foodswe know and love. However, the holiday can impact the time usually reserved for healthy routines and involve meals that are not exactly made to be heart-healthy. To keep your diet and health in check over the Thanksgiving holiday, try these ideas below … Read more

AMERICAN CHILDREN CONSUME TOO MUCH SODIUM

A recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has discovered that more than 90 percent of American children consume too much sodium. Foods such as chicken nuggets, pizza and pasta account for almost half of their sodium intake, according to the study. The CDC researchers interviewed and examined 2,266 children ages … Read more

Heart Healthy Thanksgiving Tips from the American Heart Association

Thanksgiving is about enjoying time with our family and celebrating with traditional foods we know and love. However, the holiday can impact the time usually reserved for healthy routines and involve meals that are not exactly made to be heart-healthy. To keep your diet and health in check over the Thanksgiving holiday, try these ideas … Read more

Eat your fruits and veggies! – National Eating Healthy Day in CNY and the Southern Tier

We’ve all heard it before – eat your fruits and veggies – but it’s a reminder we can all use. On Wednesday, November 5th, businesses and organizations across the region helpedbring healthy nutrition into the spotlight for the American Heart Association’s National Eating Healthy Day. Americans typically consume about half their recommended daily servings of … Read more

American Heart Association serves up fruits and veggies on National Eating Healthy Day

National Eating Healthy Day is Wednesday, Nov. 5, and the American Heart Association wants people to listen the advice of generations of mothers: Eat your vegetables (and fruit). Americans typically consume about half their recommended daily servings of fruits and vegetables. The American Heart Association recommends eating eight or more fruit and vegetable servings every … Read more

Dick Mattia’s final message for the community as he retires

October 31st marks Executive Director Dick Mattia’s final day in the Utica office of the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association. As he retires, he has these words for the community: As I reflect back on the last 26+ years with the American Heart Association I realize I will miss the people who I have met … Read more

Hundreds of CNY women join the fight against heart disease and stroke

More than 550 local women and men showed that “Life is Why” we fight against heart disease and stroke by being a part of Thursday’s 11th Annual Go Red For Women Luncheon & Expo at the Holiday Inn Convention Center in Liverpool. The campaign raised more than $235,000. Those funds will be used to fight … Read more

PS 214 Hosts Harvest Day For American Heart Association Teaching Garden

PS 214 – The Cadwallader Colden School hosted their Harvest Day to finish their planning season for their Zurich sponsored American Heart Association Teaching Garden as part of an education initiative to help build healthy bodies and minds. The Harvest Day Celebration was held on Wednesday, October 22nd and the rain couldn’t stop the celebration. … Read more

Planning For American Heart Association’s 14th Annual Go Red For Women Luncheon Underway

Plans are officially underway for this year’s 14th Annual Go Red for Women Luncheon which will take place on Wednesday, February 11, 2015 at the Crest Hollow Country Club.  Pictured are the members of the 2014-2015 American Heart Association Go Red for Women Luncheon Committee Chaired by Teresa Evans, Head of Human Resources Continental Home … Read more

Praise and hope from American Heart Association as Gov. Andrew Cuomo signs the CPR in Schools bill

They have traveled to Albany to meet with legislators; they held a CPR Rally at the Capitol; they have written letters to the editor; they have given countless media interviews; they have tweeted and they have phoned. Today, after learning that Gov. Cuomo has signed the CPR in Schools bill, six women who lost children … Read more

Praise and hope from American Heart Association As Gov. Andrew Cuomo signs the CPR in Schools bill

Advocates prepare for the next steps They have traveled to Albany to meet with legislators; they held a CPR Rally at the Capitol; they have written letters to the editor; they have given countless media interviews; they have tweeted and they have phoned. Today, after learning that Gov. Cuomo has signed the CPR in Schools … Read more

Longtime Executive Director Retiring from American Heart Association/American Stroke Association

After 26 years with the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association, Executive Director Dick Mattia is announcing his retirement. Mattia’s final day will be Friday, October 31st. Mattia began working with the American Heart Association on May 2, 1988 as division director for Chenango, Delaware, and Otsego counties, and became executive director in 2000. Michael Weamer, … Read more

American Heart Association Urges Cardiovascular Health Awareness During National Hispanic Heritage Month

Heart disease is the No. 1 killer for all Americans and stroke is the fourth leading cause of death. Hispanics and Latinos, however, face an increase incidence of cardiovascular diseases because of higher risk for health issues including high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes. The American Heart Association | American Stroke Association is urging families … Read more

AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES BOARD AND HEART SAVER RECOGNITION DINNER

On Tuesday, September 23, the American Heart Association will host their annual Heart Saver and Board Awards Dinner at the Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury. To begin the evening, the new Long Island American Heart Association Board members and officers will be sworn into office. New members of the board include; Rosevelie Marquez – … Read more

Healthy Eating Tips for College Students

The American Heart Association and American Stroke Association encourage college students to maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle. Heading back to school and dreading the all-you-can-eat cafeteria? First year and fearing the “Freshman 15”?  Staying healthy in college is more than just fitting into your skinny jeans—it can seriously help you later on in life. Why care … Read more

Delicious ways to cook fresh ingredients offered in new American Heart Association cookbook

Go Fresh includes 250 recipes to help freshen up your family’s meals Whether your kitchen is stocked with fresh produce from your local farmers market, the grocery store or your own garden this summer, the American Heart Association’s newest cookbook, Go Fresh, can provide you with healthy, easy recipes to use seasonal fruits and vegetables. … Read more

Ed Blaskey Named Chairman of 2014 Long Island Heart Walk

Ed Blaskey, TD Bank’s Market President for Suburban NY and Long Island has been named Chairman of the American Heart Association’s 2014 Long Island Heart Walk.  This year’s walk will be taking place on Sunday, September 21 at Jones Beach in Wantagh.   In this capacity, Mr. Blaskey is responsible for commercial lending activities and commercial … Read more

Put Your Heart First – Join the American Heart Association’s Long Island Heart Walk to Save Lives

Heart Walk participants take healthy steps to stomp out heart disease and stroke  More than four thousand Long Islanders are expected to join the American Heart Association’s Long Island Heart Walk on Sunday, September 21 to raise funds to fight heart disease and stroke, America’s No. 1 and No. 4 killers,. The annual event begins … Read more

New awareness campaign encourages people pledge to reduce sodium

American Heart Association survey shows Americans are unaware of how much sodium they eat Americans eat too much salt, and most have no idea how much they are eating, according to new consumer research by the American Heart Association. Nearly all of the 1,000 people surveyed by the American Heart Association (97 percent) either underestimated … Read more

AHA funds new research network aimed at preventing heart disease, stroke

The American Heart Association is funding a new research network to help people make behavior changes to prevent heart disease and stroke, the two leading causes of death in the world. Four institutions are banding together as the Strategically Focused Prevention Research Network Centers, funded by a $15 million grant from the American Heart Association, … Read more

American Heart Association and Volunteers Are Overjoyed At CPR in Schools Passage

Across New York, volunteers with the American Heart Association are applauding the state Assembly’s passage yesterday of the CPR in Schools bill.  The bill passed the Senate last week, and now goes to Gov. Andrew Cuomo for his signature. “This is a real act of leadership,” said Dan Moran, president of Next-Act in Colonie and chair … Read more

Merrick Resident & AHA encourages NYto be the next state to pass the CPR in Schools legislation

Reason No. 17: A college graduation, a swearing-in ceremony, and a walk down the aisle American Heart Association encourages New York to be the next state to pass the CPR in Schools legislation Since suffering a sudden cardiac arrestfive years ago, Steve Tannenbaum of Merrick serves on four boards that promote CPR and AED use, … Read more

American Heart Association volunteers urge swift passage of lifesaving CPR bill

American Heart Association volunteers are optimistic that the state Senate will pass the CPR In Schools bill today, Thursday, June 12, since it moved out of the Rules committee last night. “Eight days ago, I was one of nearly 100 American Heart Association volunteers at the CPR Rally at the Capitol,” said Karen Acompora of … Read more

CPR In Schools bill is out of Rules committee in Senate

American Heart Association volunteers urge swift passage of lifesaving bill  American Heart Association volunteers are optimistic that the state Senate will pass the CPR In Schools bill today, Thursday, June 12, since it moved out of the Rules committee last night. “Eight days ago, I was one of nearly 100 American Heart Association volunteers at … Read more

Robbie Levine has been gone from his family for as many years as he was alive – 9

Reason No. 11: The Foundation a Merrick family founded in honor of their son has trained thousands in CPR In September 2005, Robbie Levine was rounding the bases during a Little League game when his heart stopped. “Robbie was 9 when he died of a sudden cardiac arrest – that was 9 years ago,” said … Read more

Dr. Elad Levy and Dr. Vernice Bates Named ‘Hero of the Heart’ Recipients

The American Heart Association’s Executive Leadership Committee for the 34th annual Heart Ball is thrilled to announce Dr. Elad Levy and Dr. Vernice Bates as the 2014 recipients of the prestigious Hero of the Heart Award. Chaired by Anthony Baynes and Jim Cornell, this lively event raises critical funds for the education, training, advocacy and … Read more

PS 214 Plants American Heart Association Teaching Garden

PS 214 – The Cadwallader Colden School had their second season Plant Day Celebration with an Zurich sponsored American Heart Association Teaching Garden as part of an education initiative to help build healthy bodies and minds. The Plant Day Celebration was held on Monday, May 12th and included aerating soil and garden safety lesson, transplanting … Read more

Katarina Weigel’s sudden cardiac arrest led to a family full of defibrillators

Reason No. 8: A Family History Katarina Weigel’s sudden cardiac arrest led to a family full of defibrillators Weigel is featured in the “I’m Alive” video calling for CPR In Schools   When Katarina Weigel collapsed on the volleyball court in 2010 at the age of 15, it wasn’t the first time her family had … Read more

Dominic Murray was 17 when sudden cardiac arrest stole his life.

Reason No. 7: A pickup game should just be a pickup game East Elmhurst mother started a foundation to raise awareness of sudden cardiac arrest Dominic Murray was 17 when sudden cardiac arrest stole his life. He was playing in a pickup basketball game at Farmingdale State College. Dominic’s mother, Melinda Murray, started the Dominic … Read more

American Heart Association’s 51st Annual American Heart Association Long Island Heart Ball A Success

More than 400 attendees from the Long Island medical and corporate community came out to the Cradle of Aviation in Garden City on Friday, May 2 to attend the American Heart Association’s 51st Annual Long Island Heart Ball.  The Long Island Heart Ball is an annual social event held to recognize outstanding accomplishments of individuals … Read more

A young man lost too soon inspires Louis’ Law

It’s Week Two of the American Heart Association’s ‘So Many Reasons’ Campaign Reason No. 4: A young man lost too soon inspires Louis’ Law About 424,000 people suffer sudden cardiac arrest each year, and only about 10 percent survive. The American Heart Association and its volunteers are working to change that statistic by passing a … Read more

Today’s reason to teach CPR in Schools: Emily Adamczak

 American Heart Association’s “So Many Reasons” campaign gives lawmakers a daily reminder of the critical need to learn CPR  Emily Adamczak was 14 years old when sudden cardiac arrest claimed her life – on a soccer field. “Parents do not think that sudden cardiac arrest can happen to their child, but it does,” said Annette … Read more

A reason a day to teach CPR in Schools

Beginning today, American Heart Association “So Many Reasons” campaign illustrates the critical need to learn CPR Kevin Foord of Suffern is one of the 22 reasons the American Heart Association wants the state Legislature to pass the CPR in Schools bill this year.  Starting today, Monday, May 5, with 22 legislative session days remaining, the … Read more

American Stroke Association urges everyone to learn F.A.S.T during American Stroke Awareness Month

Together To End Stroke Would you be able to recognize a stroke if was happening to you or someone around you?  Unfortunately, too many people miss the signs of stroke and go without medical attention for hours—sometimes days—after suffering a stroke.  That’s why the American Heart Association is urging everyone to learn the warning signs … Read more

Clarence High School Students Learn a Lifesaving Beat

Students learn the American Heart Association’s Hands-Only™ CPR this week The entire student body at Clarence High School is being trained in bystander CPR April 28 – May 1st. Using the American Heart Association’s Hands-Only™ CPR, the Emily Rose Memorial Fund has coordinated the efforts that will result in nearly 1,600 students in the Clarence … Read more

Tips to Make Cinco de Mayo a Healthier Celebration

Cinco de Mayo celebrations include so many flavorful, traditional Mexican recipes, and with a few key ingredients they can help you hit your healthy eating goals. Stroke is the number four killer in the nation but 80% of strokes can be prevented by making simple lifestyle changes like eating healthier. May is American Stroke Month, … Read more

The American Heart Association’s Annual Heart of the Hamptons Ball Returns for its 18th Year

Event to Take Place on Saturday, June 28, 2014 Summer is fast approaching and the Hamptons are gearing up for an exciting event season. An event that will once again stand out this summer is the American Heart Association’s 18th Annual Heart of the Hamptons Ball.  This incredibly anticipated event will be taking place on … Read more

American Heart Association’s Golf Classic In Its 26th Year

  On Monday, June 16, 2014 the American Heart Association will be hosting its 26th Annual Golf Classic-A Joel Hamroff Memorial Tribute at the Meadow Brook Club in Jericho.  Event Chair, Frank Nardolillo, CPA, Kravet, Inc. and Event Vice-Chair Harry Armon, ARCAP Partners, LLC, along with the corporate and community leadership of Long Island will … Read more

American Heart Association Announces 5th Annual Healing Heart 5K Run/Walk

The American Heart Association’s 5th Annual Healing Heart 5K Run/Walk will be held on Sunday, May 18, 2014, on the property of the beautiful Pugliese Vineyards in the heart of the Long Island wine country in Cutchogue. More than 1,000 runners are expected. Day of event registration begins at 8:00 a.m., with the fun run … Read more

6th Annual American Heart Ride Rolls Through The Hamptons

You can be a part of the American Heart Association’s American Heart Ride, a unique cycling experience and fundraising program to support the American Heart Association. You can be a part of an exclusive team of cycling enthusiasts from the corporate, medical, and philanthropic world who are committed to the American Heart Association mission: building … Read more

Local Participants Selected for Lifestyle Change Health Challenge

For the first time in the Buffalo region, the American Heart Association will conduct the Lifestyle Change Challenge, an innovative initiative that will chronicle the journey toward meaningful lifestyle changes that improves heart health for nine local participants. The 12-week Challenge, sponsored by Leading Edge Performance and Independent Nursing Care, is designed to remind us all to make … Read more

American Heart Association announces 34th annual Heart Ball

The Buffalo Niagara Division of the American Heart Association (AHA) is pleased to announce Anthony J. Baynes, Chairman of A.J. Baynes Group, and James W. CAnthony Baynesornell, CEO of Praxiis Advisors, as the volunteer co-chairmen for the 2014 Heart Ball. The annual black-tie event will take place on Saturday, May 31st at the Hyatt Regency Downtown. Baynes and Cornell are leading the organization’s appeal to the local business community to support the AHA’s mission to build healthier lives, free from cardiovascular diseases and stroke by supporting the event.

For more than 30 years, the Buffalo Niagara Heart Ball has promoted the AHA’s mission on a local level, and thanks to the support of community donors, there have been inspiring advances in the fight against heart disease and stroke, including:

  • Innovative Research.  Bright young researchers do pioneering work because AHA funding has produced revolutionary discoveries that have led to CPR, clot-busting drugs, the pacemaker, and drug-eluting stents.  Currently, the AHA funds $1.8 million in research grants in Western New York.
  • Vital Local Education.  Providing resources to the Buffalo Niagara Region for wellness programs in the workplace and in schools.  The AHA offers tools to lower risk factors, to recognize warning signs, and to respond in an emergency.
  • Quality Health Care.  Funds raised help the American Heart Association develop guidelines that give patients the best possible care. The AHA guidelines help doctors and hospitals put evidence-based protocols in place.
  • A Voice in Government.  The AHA advocacy network champions key issues at the local, state and national levels to make us all safe from our region’s leading killer, cardiovascular disease. One recent success includes the passage of the pulse-ox law – a simple, non-invasive screening test for all newborns that could identify a congenital heart defect that may otherwise go undetected.

“Jim and I are both survivors, so this cause is very personal for us. And we are certainly not alone, almost everyone knows someone affected by heart disease and have seen the benefits of the American Heart Association’s work,” states Baynes. “We are making strides,” Cornell agrees. “The prevalence of heart disease in our community is devastating, but we can change these statistics. Heart disease and stroke can be prevented.”

For more information on table and sponsorship opportunities please contact the American Heart Association at 716-614-1985. The American Heart Association’s Heart Ball is locally sponsored by, A.J. Baynes Group,Praxiis Advisors, and WGRZ.

American Heart Association To Honor George A. Petrossian, MD, FACC At American Heart Ball

The American Heart Association is pleased to announce that George A. Petrossian, MD, FACC Director of Interventional Cardiovascular Procedures at St. Francis Hospital will be the honored at the 51st Annual Heart Ball.  In his role as Honoree, he will assist in raising support and creating awareness about heart disease and stroke as it pertains … Read more

American Heart Association’s Go Red For Women Dinner to Be Held in Queens

          The American Heart Association is proud to announce that the 7th Annual Queens Go Red For Women Dinner will be held on Wednesday, April 2, 2014 beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the Terrace on the Park and will bring together a diverse assemblage from all over Queens. The Queens Go Red for Women Committee … Read more

American Heart Association’s 51st Annual American Heart Association Long Island Heart Ball

The American Heart Association’s Long Island Annual Heart Ball will be celebrating its 51st year on Friday, May 2, 2014 at the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City. The Long Island Heart Ball is an annual social event held to celebrate outstanding accomplishments of individuals and companies in the area of cardiovascular science and … Read more