The following is the latest blog entry by Knoxville News Sentinel Fitness Expert Becky Fox. Fox is owner of Fox Fitness, a Knoxville-based in-home and outdoors personal fitness company. Fox Fitness’ goal is to help people get in shape and to stay in shape by providing fitness and motivational knowledge. Fox Fitness challenges clients in ways that create new levels of fitness. Fox is ACE Certified as both a Group Fitness Instructor and as a Certified Personal Trainer.

For more information about Fox Fitness’ personal training, online training and bootcamp services, visit the company’s website: www.foxfitnessonline.com. Fox can be reached directly by email: becky@foxfitnessonline.com.

To read her blog in the Knoxville News Sentinel, visit: http://blogs.knoxnews.com/knx/fitness/

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Getting fit doesn't always have to be expensive. Yes, it can be nice to have a state-of-the-art gym membership, or top-of-the-line fitness equipment, but unfortunately it doesn't always fit into everyone's budget, especially when times get tough. Here are some ideas to get you started working out in your home or outdoors, so that you can get in shape without breaking the bank.

One idea is to buy equipment that is inexpensive and has more than one purpose. Many popular items such as abs or thigh machines only work one part of the body, can fill up a lot of space, and can get costly. So when looking for equipment to use, find items that create variety and can work the entire body:

Stability balls can be used for a variety of exercises, from legs to abs to arms. They also make great benches for a variety of exercises, such as a chest press, and can even be used as a seat at your desk.

Resistance bands are inexpensive, small, and lightweight. These are one of my personal favorites because they are easy when you are on the go. Take them along when you travel or when you are taking a walk.

Dumbbells will never go out of style. They are great for working out at home. They are less costly than larger fitness machines and they don't use as much space.

Such equipment can be easily found at your local department or fitness store or online at www.power-systems.com.

Other low-cost ideas to get fit outside of the gym include:

Buying, renting, or borrowing workout videos. There are large varieties of workout videos on the market, covering strength training, cardio dance, kickboxing and more. This is a fun way to exercise right in your living room. Check out your local store, library, video rental spot, or www.collagevideo.com to find some great DVDs.

FitTV or ExerciseTV. Most cable packages will have one or both of these available. This is another great way to get a variety of workouts right in your home.

Take it outdoors. When the weather is nice, use the outdoors to run, walk, bike, or partake in an outdoor sport with your family or friends. Use picnic tables or benches to do step-ups, push-ups, or triceps dips. Or you could even join a running or walking club.

So I don't want to hear any excuses! Using inexpensive methods can be just as effective as the more costly ones, so get out there and exercise.

Eddie Mannis, President of Prestige Cleaners has been selected "Outstanding Corporate Philanthropist" by the Association of Fundraising Professionals at their annual Philanthropy Celebration. Prestige Cleaners is the founder and presenting sponsor of HonorAir Knoxville, an organization dedicated to flying East Tennessee World War II veterans to Washington D.C. to see the World War II Memorial. The company also sponsors Project Classroom, an annual fundraising program to benefit public schools in Anderson, Blount and Knox Counties.

The U.S. Census Bureau is looking for qualified applicants to fill more than 15,000 jobs in Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia to help prepare for the 2010 Census. The Charlotte Regional Census Center has opened 15 local census offices in the five-state region to carry out a pre-census operation called Address List Development. Positions include address listers, office clerks, recruiting assistants, crew leaders, and field operation supervisors.

“The census is a constitutional mandate that’s too big for the federal government to carry out alone,” said William W. Hatcher, regional director for the Charlotte Regional Census Center, which supports 2010 Census operations in the five-state region. “That’s why we must build an army of local people to help prepare for and carry out the census in 2010.

Those interested in applying for these jobs can go to www.2010censusjobs.gov for job descriptions, qualifications, and applications. Potential applicants also can call toll free 1-866-861-2010. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, age 18 and older, have a valid Social Security number, and pass a basic aptitude test. Most jobs require a driver’s licenses and use of a car.

In spring 2009, the census employees will help develop a confidential address list that will be used to deliver census questionnaires in 2010. The jobs are temporary; both full-time and part-time jobs are available. Census jobs offer flexible schedules and allow close-to-home employment. Competitive pay begins at $8.75 an hour and varies depending on job and location.

“It’s important that we have qualified people who know their communities to help develop our address list,” Hatcher said. “These important jobs offer attractive pay, allow flexibility, offer-on-the-job training, and permit people to work in their communities, for the communities. Census jobs count in many ways.”

Census results are used to determine the number of congressional seats for each state, the shape of legislative districts and local government districts, and how $300 billion in federal funds are distributed annually to communities across the country for important local programs.

NOTE: The following release was sent from Consumer Credit Counseling Service, a Knoxville Chamber member business.

The current economic situation has East Tennessee employers looking for ways to help educate their employees about personal finances.

The non-profit Consumer Credit Counseling Service of East Tennessee (CCCS) and BB&T will host representatives from area employers at a complimentary luncheon event for the launch of its free Workforce Housing Initiative. East Tennessee employers who enroll their company in the Workforce Housing Initiative will receive free home ownership classes and financial education classes for their employees. The luncheon is scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 3, at the Foundry at World’s Fair Park. Interested employers should register for the complimentary luncheon by calling CCCS at (865) 329-8001 by close of business on Monday, Dec. 1.

“Through pre-purchase homeownership education and financial literacy education, employers can provide a value-added benefit to employees while reaping rewards for their business,” said Daru Burdge, president of CCCS of East Tennessee. “In addition to helping employees become homeowners, the employer benefits by improving its reputation, increasing its recruiting abilities, enhancing its retention rate and improving employee dependability.”

The Workforce Housing Initiative utilizes CCCS’s expertise in pre-purchase housing and financial literacy education and BB&T’s current financial package of services, which offers participating employers and employees an exclusive package of financial services and discounted products.

The Workforce Housing Initiative is free to employers and will include:

• Homeownership education
• Financial education
• Down payment and closing cost assistance information
• Affordable properties search assistance
• Mortgage financing through BB&T affordable products

This campaign is an outreach and education initiative developed to help dismiss common myths about buying and owning a home. This financial education provides insight into how lenders assess credit histories, educates consumers about long-term credit, money management and explains the role of credit in purchasing and maintaining a home.

“We are excited about the Workforce Housing Initiative,” said Burdge. “I want to encourage all area employers to take advantage of this free program for their employees.”

For more information on the Workforce Housing Initiative classes or kick-off luncheon, please contact CCCS of East Tennessee at (865) 329-8001.

NOTE: The following release was sent from the University of Tennessee, a Knoxville Chamber member business.

A new business competition for high schoolers sponsored by the University of Tennessee in cooperation with the Oak Ridge National Laboratory will give students across the state and nation a taste of technology-based entrepreneurship.

The event is known as the UT High School Technology Challenge. Teams of up to four students from across the country are being invited to submit entries and compete. Selected teams will come to Knoxville, visit Oak Ridge and make presentations March 26-28, 2009.

"This is an extraordinary opportunity for young people to develop a product concept, interact with world-renowned scientists and entrepreneurs, and gain some understanding of what it means to take an innovation to market," said Joy Fisher, director of marketing and business development for the University of Tennessee Research Foundation (UTRF).

Teams will be judged on the creativity and innovative of their technology-based product idea, the ability to explain and demonstrate that there is a market need for the product, and the extent to which they can show that there is enough demand to create a sustainable business.

The deadline for teams to submit their application and a summary of their idea is Feb. 2, 2009. Teams chosen as finalists will present their ideas to judges in person at the Global Venture Challenge, held in Oak Ridge and on the UT Knoxville campus, on March 27 and 28, 2009.

"The challenge is really unique," Fisher said. "It allows these motivated and engaged high school students to interact directly with some of the most learned scientists and investors in the country. We hope to inspire students to continue their educations and become remarkable entrepreneurs."

Scholarships to UT Knoxville valued at up to $6,000 will be awarded to each member of the 2009 winning teams.

Students, parents, or educations interested in the UT High School Technology Challenge can find more information at www.globalventurechallenge.com by clicking on "Idea to Product Competition". They may also contact Fisher at joy.fisher@tennessee.edu.

NOTE: The following was sent from ES&H, a Knoxville Chamber member business.

ES&H, Inc. announced today that Bill Garibay was awarded with special recognition the 2008 Hispanic Business Entrepreneur of the Year (EOY), in the Green Company Category, at the Hispanic Business Magazine EOY® Awards Gala on Thursday, November 6th, 2008 in Los Angeles, California.
Hispanic Business magazine celebrates those who have made significant contributions to the U.S. Hispanic economy and, in turn, have contributed to the Hispanic community at large. The annual EOY® Awards Gala honors courageous and determined Hispanic entrepreneurs who take the lead in innovation and inspire change. More than 750 leaders, including honorees and alumni of the EOY, attended the conference.

The Green Company Category is a new category for the EOY Awards. This special recognition is given to the company that strives to create a better environment while bringing a new consciousness and focus to American business.

ES&H, Inc. is an award-winning 8(a), small, Disadvantaged Business Entity (DBE) that provides Environmental, Safety and Health, Construction, Disaster Response, Engineering and Training Services. ES&H, Inc. prides itself in the development of intelligent, result-driven solutions to each client’s need.

Ruth's Chris Steak House will be open for lunch from 11:30 am to 2:00 pm on Fridays during November and December with the exception of the Fridays after Thanksgiving and Christmas. The restaurant is encouraging businesspeople and office parties to consider it as an option during the holidays.

Ruth's Chris has also created a special lunch menu for the period. Please see it below:

Lunch Features

Soups

Louisiana Seafood Gumbo $8.5
Lobster Bisque $9
Entrée Salads

Chilled Shellfish Salad
Jumbo shrimp and jumbo lump crabmeat tossed with a roasted tomato vinaigrette dressing and served on a bed of mixed greens, grape tomatoes and diced peppers. $19

Seared Ahi Tuna Salad
Fresh field greens, red onions and crunchy vegetables served with slices of our blackened Ahi tuna and a ponzi sauce. $16

Chicken Caesar Salad
Fresh crisp Romaine hearts tossed with Romano cheese and a creamy Caesar dressing. Topped with Parmesan & Black Pepper Crisps, grape tomatoes, and a half free-range chicken breast. $14

Sandwiches

Prime Hamburger
Grilled Prime hamburger with Swiss or Cheddar cheese served with our hand-cut julienne fries. $15
Crab Cake Sandwich
Hand-made jumbo lump crab cakes, served with remoulade sauce and fresh greens with our hand-cut julienne fries. $20

Entrées

Luncheon Filet (6 ounces)
The most tender cut of corn-fed Midwestern beef $

Luncheon N.Y. Strip (12 ounces)
This USDA Prime cut has a full-bodied texture that is slightly firmer than a ribeye. $31

Mixed Grill
Three guest favorites - a 4 oz. sliced tenderloin filet prepared to your liking, an oven roasted free-range chicken breast stuffed with garlic herb cheese, and our home-made jumbo lump crab cake baked until golden brown. $29

Filet & Stuffed Lobster Tail
The perfect combination - a five ounce Caribbean lobster tail stuffed with succulent crab meat and garlic herb cheese, paired with a six ounce filet. $39.95

Fillauer LLC received the Tennessee Governor’s Award for Trade Excellence (GATE) for achieved excellence in engaging in global trade as a medium sized company. The state of Tennessee has honored large, medium and small sized companies for their participation in global trading with the GATE Award since 2007. Fillauer LLC presented information on the amount of global trading the company has been involved in during the past year, as well as examples of their commitment to exportation and their 2008 international business success story.

Fillauer LLC, located in Chattanooga, began in 1914 as a pharmacy company and has since developed into one of the nation’s leaders in designing, manufacturing, and distributing orthotic and prosthetic devices. With an expanding presence around the world in areas such as the Middle East and Asia, Fillauer representatives travel extensively to consult with practitioners around the world on patient care. Fillauer’s success in providing educational programs offered in other countries elevated the company among others vying for the GATE Award.

Dennis Williams, President of Fillauer Companies, Inc., Fran Jenkins, Vice President of Fillauer Companies, Inc., and Michael Fillauer, President of Fillauer LLC were presented the award by Governor Phil Bredesen and Matt Kisber, Commissioner for the TN Department of Economic & Community Development, during the Governor’s Luncheon held on Tuesday, September 16th.

NOTE: The following release is from the University of Tennessee.

KNOXVILLE -- Professor Joe Carcello of the University of Tennessee College of Business Administration will talk about the ailing economy as part of a series of brown bag lunch lectures offered by the UT Professional MBA Program.

Carcello's lecture, "Making Sense of the Financial Crisis," will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 18, in the Center for Executive Education, Classroom 601, of the new James A. Haslam II Business Building at the corner of Andy Holt Avenue and Volunteer Boulevard.
Attendees should bring their lunches. Bottled water, soft drinks and dessert will be provided. Cost is $20 per person, and registration is required by calling (865) 974-1660.
Parking will be available for $5 in the University Center Parking Garage on Phillip Fulmer Way.
Carcello is the Ernst & Young Professor of Accounting and director of research at the UT Corporate Governance Center.
The Lunchtime Lecture Series will feature faculty from the College of Business Administration discussing a variety of compelling current events and issues.

NOTE: The following release was sent from ansleydesignfab.com, a Knoxville Chamber member business.

ansleydesignfab.com is pleased to announce the addition of large scale 3D scanning to its suite of design, engineering, and fabrication capabilities. "The ProCollector from SL Laser gives us the ability to collect accurate full size dimensional data in the field" reports company owner Donald Ansley, "This data can be quickly imported into any one of several 3D modeling tools we use to create finished geometry for our clients ."

Sister company Interior Yacht Systems, LLC (IYS) is using the ProCollector to scan the mega yacht superstructures within which it installs exterior overhead systems. The accuracy of the data collected enables IYS to develop the detailed geometry necessary to drive NC cutting equipment in the creation of the supporting grid and finished panel elements. “Best part is it eliminates the onboard trimming and fitting typically associated with this type installation” Ansley reports.

ansleydesignfab.com is a specialty design, engineering, and fabrication company in East Tennessee with facilities off Middlebrook Pike in Knoxville while Interior Yacht Systems provides comprehensive engineering and component fabrication services to large yacht builders worldwide - additional details available at www.ansleydesignfab.com and www.interioryachtsystems.com.