Growing
Health 2010 exceeded expectations of the Conference Planning
Committee, the Rural Health Network of South Central New York,
and based on evaluations, many of those in attendance. An
estimated 250 people attended the inaugural, full day
conference!
At the 9:00 a.m.
plenary session, New York State Commissioner of Health, Dr.
Richard F. Daines teamed up with Commissioner of Agriculture and
Markets for New York, Patrick Hooker; addressing such topics as
health policy, chronic disease and food insecurity. The
afternoon plenary speaker, Jerry Brunetti, founder of Agri-Dynamics,
offered thought provoking insights into the food industry’s
effect on national and personal health issues.
The energy and
excitement of the conference carried over into the evening food
& beverage tasting event. Over 300 people enjoyed a bountiful
feast of delicious appetizers, artisanal cheeses, soups, entrees
and desserts: all made with food grown and produced in the
region and prepared by some of the area’s finest chefs.
Beverages from New York State wineries, breweries and orchards
were also featured for sampling.
Response from
participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many requests for
future events. Evaluations showed that most attendees gained
valuable knowledge about the benefits of having a “triple bottom
line” for assessing the health of our food system (social,
economic and environmental).
The Rural Health
Network South Central New York will continue to work with a
diversity of partners to develop a healthier, more regional food
system. We hope you are able to use the bounty of information
generated at Growing Health 2010 to help promote a healthier and
more sustainable future for your family and your community.
