I went to Washington, D.C. to see the White House garden (and attend the Weight of the Nation Conference). Although the Secret Service prevented me from getting close to the First Lady garden, I did experience a thought-provoking conference related to obesity prevention. Some of the conference highlights:
- HBO screened their new documentary “The Weight of the Nation.” The 4-part nationwide release will be on Monday May 14 (Parts 1 and 2) and Tuesday May 15 (Parts 3 and 4). HBO will make access free for this event.
- AmeriCorps is instituting a new program called “Food Corps” where students can volunteer for a year to assist local communities and schools with implementing local agriculture and nutrition education.
- The Institute of Medicine released their seminal report “Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention-Solving the Weight of the Nation.”
- Goal 1: Make physical activity an integral and routine part of life.
- Goal 2: Create food and beverage environments that ensure that healthy food and beverage options are the routine, easy choice.
- Goal 3: Transform messages about physical activity and nutrition.
- Goal 4: Expand the role of health care providers, insurers, and employers in obesity prevention.
- Goal 5: Make schools a national focal point for obesity prevention.
On a final note, Vice President Joe Biden’s motorcade roared passed me while I sat outside our hotel—I waved—but he seemed preoccupied. That’s okay; he’s a busy man right now.
For more information, contact Eric Aakko @ eric.aakko@state.co.us
Thanks, Eric. Sorry about not seeing Michelle Obama's garden.
ReplyDeleteKris McCracken