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'Grandmother of Aerobics' to Speak Oct. 5


PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. (Sept. 9, 2009) - Before Jane Fonda became known for aerobics, there was Sheila Cluff.In the 1950s, Cluff took figure skating routines, set them to piano music and motivated her high school physical education students through "cardiovascular dance." Now she is often called the "grandmother of aerobics."At 73, a mother of four and grandmother of seven, Cluff has never slowed down. This motivational speaker, owner/founder of The Oaks at Ojai Spa, author of four books, producer of four fitness videos and the leader of more than 40 fitness and beauty cruises will be coming to SUNY Plattsburgh to share her experiences in a presentation, titled "Passion, Persistence, Professionalism and Power = Success."

Sheila Cluff The talk will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the Alumni Room of the Angell College Center on Monday, Oct. 5.

"While her presentation is open to everyone, students in fitness, nutrition, hotel management, nursing and business majors are especially encouraged to attend," said Ken Baldwin, assistant professor, coordinator for the fitness and wellness program and event organizer. "They will find her story useful as they learn about her experiences setting up a spa business, founding her own company, figure skating at competitions in Lake Placid and more."

Recognized as a pioneer of the American spa industry with a "Trailblazer" tribute from Spa magazine in 2002, she is also the recipient of International Spa Association's Visionary Award and the Eve Award from the Mannequins Auxiliary of Assistance League of Southern California for her philanthropy and commitment to community outreach. She is also a member of the College of Sports Medicine, the Hotels Advisory Travel Board and the Ojai Film Festival Board, is a member of the International Spa Association and a founding member of the women's international business organization, Committee of 200.

For information on Cluff's presentation, contact Baldwin at [email protected].

Presentation Date/Time/Location:
Presentation: "Passion, Persistence, Professionalism and Power = Success."
Monday, Oct. 5, 2009
Time: 7-8:30 p.m.
Location: Alumni Conference Room, Angell College Center

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