SPINDALE (Sept. 18, 2008) - Isothermal Community College will host a HealthFest for students, employees and the community on Thursday, October 16.

The event, which will offer a variety of activities, will be held in the gymnasium at the college’s Student Center from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. In addition to health-related topics, the HealthFest will offer participants information on health careers and wellness.

“We are excited about the HealthFest and anticipate a large audience of participants from students and employees,” said Pat Freeman, the college’s vice president of Community Education and Institutional Advancement. “Not only will this event offer the participants the knowledge they need to adopt healthier lifestyles, but it may also assist those who are interested in pursuing a health career.”

Representatives from various organizations at the event include Rutherford Hospital, Emergency Medical Services, chiropractors, the college’s and Foothills Nursing Consortium’s health sciences programs, school systems, Hospice of Rutherford County, obstetricians, Spindale Drug, American Red Cross, Lifestyle Wellness and Spa, Therapy Plus, Rutherford Cosmetic Surgery and Thera-ssage. Demonstrations of yoga, martial arts and other health-related activities are included in the schedule of events. In addition to giveaways, door prize drawings will also be held throughout the day.

Rutherford Hospital will offer blood screenings beginning at 8 a.m., prior to the start of the event. The screenings check levels of cholesterol, triglyceride, glucose and other elements of blood chemistry. For the most accurate results, participants should not have any food or drink after midnight. Medicines may be taken with a small sip of water. Participation at the HealthFest is free; however, there is a $25 fee for the blood screening.

The event is being organized by the college’s Campus Life Task Force.

For more information about the HealthFest 2008, contact Tiffany Cooper at 828-286-3636, ext. 373.