BINGHAMTON, NY - A press conference to announce the results of the first ever countywide healthy lifestyle challenge “Shape Up Broome” will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, August 17, 2007. Shape Up Broome is a team fitness and weight loss challenge designed to increase physical activity levels and provide skill development and social support for healthy lifestyle habits. This challenge aligns with the Steps program goals of reducing obesity and diabetes by increasing physical activity and eating a healthful diet.

WHO: Representatives from Excellus BlueCross BlueShield and Security Mutual

WHAT: The winning team will be announced and awarded a grand prize of a spa/golf package to Traditions at the Glen, compliments of Excellus BlueCross BlueShield and Security Mutual

WHERE: Confluence Park, Binghamton
(located at the north end of the South Washington Street bridge)

Shape Up Broome is coordinated by Steps to a HealthierNY and Excellus BlueCross BlueShield. Key sponsors of the program are: Greater Binghamton Chamber, Clear Channel Radio, Channel 34, Lourdes Hospital, Security Mutual, United Health Services Hospitals and the YMCA. For more information on Shape Up Broome, please contact Mary McFadden by phone at 607.778.3929 or by e-mail at mmcfadden@co.broome.ny.us.

Steps to a HealthierNY is funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services as part of Steps to a HealthierUS, a national program focusing on the prevention of diabetes, obesity and asthma and addressing related risk factors -- poor nutrition, physical inactivity and tobacco use and exposure. For more information about Steps to a HealthierNY in Broome County, please visit http://www.goBroomeCounty.com or call 607.778.3902.

Steps to a HealthierUS Cooperative Agreement is a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) program advancing the HealthierUS goal to help Americans live longer, better and healthier lives. Through funding of community-based interventions, this program aims to reduce the burden of diabetes, obesity and asthma, and address three related risk behaviors -- poor nutrition, physical inactivity and tobacco use and exposure. For more information, please visit www.healthierus.gov/steps.