The annual Nutritional Concerns Conference will be held on Tuesday, March 13 at the Albany Marriott, 189 Wolf Road Albany. The full day conference, sponsored by Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) of Albany, Rensselaer, Saratoga and Schenectady Counties, will feature nationally known speakers on timely topics. Registration forms are available at http://www.ccesaratoga.org, or by calling Diane Whitten of Saratoga County CCE at 885-8995. Anyone interested in exhibiting at the conference is encouraged to call Kim Parnell at Rensselaer County CCE at 272-4210.  The deadline for participant registration is March 2, and for exhibitors it is March 1.

Five continuing education credits are available from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (formerly known as the American Dietetic Association), the Certifying Board of Dietary Managers, the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences, and the School Nutrition Association. The fee of $85 includes a continental breakfast, luncheon, keynote speaker, three workshops, exhibitors and resources.

Dr. Nina Marinello, Chair of Nutrition Science at the Sage Colleges and The Healthy Professor columnist, will deliver the keynote address on “How do you say no to a hot bagel?  When knowledge isn’t enough.”  With her customary humor and honesty she will address the pressures of being a nutrition professional. Bonnie Taub-Dix, nationally known author and media personality, will present “Speak the MyPlate Way,” giving insight and practical help in using the MyPlate icon in nutrition education for groups and individuals.  

“The Synergy between Exercise and Nutrition in the Prevention and Treatment of Diabetes and Obesity” will be presented by Dr. Paul Arciero, Professor in the Health and Exercise Sciences Department at Skidmore College and athletic consultant.  Nikki Withrow will speak on “Diet and Nutrition in Children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).”  Nikki is a Research Dietitian for the Autism Treatment Network in Colorado, and a pediatric registered dietitian at the Colorado Children’s Hospital.