Community Nutrition in Sunny Philadelphia

Sunny and 82 degrees in Philadelphia today. Day 2 of the 3-day Susan G. Komen walk was today; so on my way to House of Delegates (HOD) meeting this morning I was greeted by pink tutus and cheerful charity chargers.  The dialogue for the HOD meeting today was focus on the public health dietitian. This is such a broad term and so many opportunities for dietitians.  There is such a large focus on prevention as the talks about the future of healthcare in America, I believe the public health dietitian is going to be a very important player for policy change and advocacy, advisement, and on the front lines in programming. 

 

 

My background is in public health with former research focusing on Food Security. This evening while walking to a reception for dietitians in media and communication I was reminded of my research and passion: creating education and acquisition of nutritious food for people of all socioeconomic statuses.  The Chosen 300 had a pop-up food line in the park across from my hotel.  One of the patrons explained that the ministry group (www.chosen300.org) provides food at that corner every Saturday evening.  What the dietitian saw on her plate: fresh salad, hot green beans, and spaghetti with meat balls. Two vegetable servings!! I am so pleased and encouraged to see non-profit organizations creating a place of socialization and spiritual support with a well-balanced meal. Matthew 25:35 states, “For when I was hungry you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in”.  Thank you, Chosen 300, for feeding the homeless and the poor as you would feed yourself.

Walking in the city of Love

Landed in Philly last night for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics convention and expo.  Took my own advice this morning; needed to get over the 3 hours difference in time change and the 3am bedtime so I took a walk in the City of Brotherly love. I am staying right by the park where the LOVE Statue stands (and a lot of homeless people sleep). I walked down the famous Market Street to see the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall and where many famous authors have spent a stroll. I was joined in spirit by Benjamin Franklin, Mark Twain, and Walt Whitman. There is something about this city that inspires the heart of creativity in a person.

Love Statue in Philly

I found food! Mainly my hot breakfast spot I plan to stop at every morning. They have a delicious hot mozzarella panini’s and perfectly made triple shot lattes. I am in heaven due to it being a locally owned restaurant….and it on my way to the Convention Center.

Carmens at Reading Market Terminal

Right by the convention center is a fresh food and deli market.  And the Cheese Steak at Carmen’s in Reading Terminal Market was all this girl needed to top the night off. The staff is delightful and the hoagie was delicious…of course!!! They may just see me again this week ….since they took the time to educate me that a real cheese steak is served with cheese-wiz! We all need to splurge sometimes….I think I might just stick with the provolone cheese though.