Association of New York State
Youth Bureaus
The Cornerstone of New York's Youth Development!
November 30, 2007
ANYSYB Invited to Obesity Prevention Summit
ALBANY, NY - To better serve the youth of New York, the Association of New York State Youth Bureaus was invited to attend the New York State Childhood Obesity Prevention Invitational Summit, sponsored by the New York State Department of Health. The Summit was held on November 28th and 29th, at the Desmond, in Albany, New York.
Joining the more than 400 attendees and guest speakers, from across the county, were our Executive Director, Alan Turner and the Regional Director for the Genesee Valley/Finger Lakes Region and Batavia Youth Bureau Executive Director, Patricia Dieck.
The summit provided an overview of the childhood obesity epidemic in New York State and throughout the United States. Many of the discussions and presenters focused on the trends in risk factors that have contributed to this situation and the different actions that can be taken to help prevent and improve the health of children,
“The data and research done in the study of the obesity crisis was amazing,” stated Dieck. “I was amazed by all the pre-natal influences that affect a youth weight in life. As well as the information given showing a strong correlation between the time spend watching television and the health and weight of a child. I wish many people had the opportunity to see these facts.”
Also discussed were various educational and legislative policy initiatives that can have a positive impact on youth.
“In just the past 25 years, the number of overweight youth has more than doubled,” proclaimed Turner. “Many groups are trying to do what is best for our kids. From what I learned, New York is on the right track, but more can be done and should be done. If it takes more action by the state legislation or by your local school board – please encourage them to continue to watch out for our children’s well being.”
During the summit, the planners also had a poster session to promote what programs are being run across the state. The Association was invited to participate as an exhibitor. Our poster was designed to promote our partnership with the USTA-Eastern. The theme: “Tennis Everyone! – How ‘Fit Start’ Can Bring Life-Long Fitness Skills to New York State’s Youth.”
David Gregoire, Northern Regional Director of the USTA-Eastern joined Alan and Pat to talk about our partnership. “By utilizing the Association’s statewide network of youth bureaus, the USTA-Eastern can provide resources and programs to address the need for recreational activities,” stated Gregoire. “The USTA has developed innovative programs to introduce tennis to ALL youth in a variety of ways. The greatest asset of this partnership is that it offers creative and innovative approaches to making tennis available to everyone.”
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If you have any questions, comments or concerns, please contact ANYSYB at:
194 Washington Avenue, Suite 415, Albany, NY 12210
518-436-8712
