Obesity Research Information
ACFN recently completed "Tipping the Scales on Obesity: Meeting the Challenges of Today for a Healthier Tomorrow," a comprehensive examination of existing data and research about obesity, inactivity and related trends. This resource was created to provide a research-grounded understanding of the myriad causes of this public health challenge and to encourage collaborative and comprehensive long-term solutions. Tipping the Scales cites studies on the trends and factors contributing to obesity, evaluates potential solutions and describes proven keys to success in addressing the problem.

Visit our website and read "Tipping the Scales on Obesity: Meeting the Challenges of Today for a Healthier Tomorrow."

Dr. Blackburn welcoming ADA Members to Harvard Panel

ACFN in Anaheim for ADA’s Food and Nutrition Conference
Over the course of four October days in Anaheim, hundreds of health and wellness professionals visited ACFN’s booth, where nutrition and physical activity tips, statistics on obesity and information on ACFN’s pilot programs were distributed.

In addition, Dr. Susan Finn served as a moderator for "Science-based Solutions to Obesity: What is the role of Academia, Government and the Industry?" a panel discussion developed by ACFN Advisory Board member Dr. George Blackburn. Nearly 600 attendees heard presentations on diet, exercise and behavior from John Jakicic, PhD, of the University of Pittsburgh, Gary Foster, PhD, from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Medicine and Adam Drewnowski, PhD, from the University of Washington. ADA President Elect, Rebecca Reeves, DrPH, RD, from Baylor College of Medicine, Pat Verduin from ConAgra Foods and Donald Short from The Coca Cola Company also presented healthcare and industry perspectives on the obesity issue. The event was so well received that ADA has requested that it become an annual session at the conference. Stay tuned for a follow up session this spring at the Harvard Medical School’s Division of Nutrition in Boston.

ACFN looks forward to reconnecting with nutrition leaders at next year’s ADA conference in St. Louis, Missouri.

Dr. Finn moderating Harvard/ADA panel

ACFN Speaks to Women Legislators
From November 18 through November 21, ACFN exhibited at the National Foundation for Women Legislators Annual Conference in Sarasota, Florida. Nearly 400 legislators and influencers participated in the event and not surprisingly, health and wellness issues were a big focus.

One highlight was a keynote address from Congressman Dan Burton (R-IN) who emphasized the importance of nurturing health and wellness in the home. He encouraged his fellow elected leaders to more actively support healthcare systems as they work to not only address, but more importantly, to prevent the problem of obesity.

Additionally, Florida’s Secretary of Health, Dr. John Agwunobi, made a special appearance at the Health and Empowerment Policy Committee meeting. Dr. Agwunobi urged state and community leaders to increase communication to constituents about all the successful health initiatives already underway in their states. He also encouraged them to promote the numerous state-sponsored resources for nutrition education and physical activity.

Federal Education Grants – PEP INCREASE FOR 2005
ACFN is pleased to announce that the Carol M. White Physical Education for Progress (PEP) grant program has been funded at $74 million for 2005, as part of the Omnibus Spending Bill recently passed in Congress. This figure reflects a notable $4 million increase in the annual grant offering from the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Safe and Drug-Free Schools. Entering its fourth year, the PEP program has served as a critical funding source for 687 schools and community organizations nationwide.

PEP grants help cover the costs of development or expansion of physical education programs for children in grades K - 12. The PEP program helps local schools and communities take important steps toward meeting state standards for physical education. The grants enable and empower communities to make local decisions without imposing unnecessary federal mandates on school spending or priorities.

ACFN will continue to keep you informed about the PEP grant program, including the application process and deadlines for next year. Please click here for a list of the 2004 grant recipients and for more information please visit www.pepgrant.info.