July 2019 Issue

Editor’s Spot: So ‘Rad’ in Scottsdale
By Judith Riddle
Today’s Dietitian
Vol. 21, No. 7, P. 4

With tremendous excitement, Today’s Dietitian (TD) kicked off its 6th annual Spring Symposium in the desert city of Scottsdale, Arizona, at the Talking Stick Resort in May. Surrounded by a scenic golf course amid breathtaking mountainous terrain, the resort—known for its gaming, live entertainment, and restaurants and lounges—welcomed more than 700 dietitians, dietetics students, and other nutrition and health care professionals from across the country and abroad to enjoy a wealth of continuing education workshops, networking, special events, fitness, delicious food, and live entertainment.

Every year, TD expects the symposium to be better than the last. And this one was no exception. We hosted more special events breakfast and lunch presentations, and welcomed more sponsors than ever before. And the attendees continue to wax poetic about the event. “I polled 20 people and asked them what they thought about the symposium,” said one attendee, “and they all said that this is the best conference they’ve ever been to. They love the sessions, the networking, everything about it.”

One of my favorite sessions was “Securing Brand Deals as a Nutrition Professional,” by first-time presenters Jessica Jones, MS, RDN, CDE, and Wendy Lopez, MS, RDN, CDE, who discussed how to secure paid brand partnerships. Another favorite was “Rags to Riches,” by first-time presenter Jim White, RDN, ACSM EX-P, who provided a step-by-step plan to become a successful nutrition business owner. There were several other stellar presentations on diabetes and weight management, cannabis, senior wellness, disordered eating, nutrition and cancer, allergies, culinary education, and much more.

The exhibit hall and reception was a hit, as dietitians interacted with several of our sponsor companies to learn about their products and programs while sampling hors d’oeuvres and sipping wine. Probably the most memorable event was the retro 1980s concert sponsored by Regular Girl®, featuring The Radio Rebels. Many in the crowd dressed up in creative 1980s garb, sporting leg warmers, tights, high heels, colorful makeup, teased hair, and off-the-shoulder T-shirts to dance to the jams of the ’80s. We had a blast!

To read more about the symposium and view the photo gallery, turn to page 24. Afterward, read our special Diabetes Management & Nutrition Guide as well as articles on the power of produce and creating your personal brand. Please enjoy the issue!

Judith Riddle
Editor
TDeditor@gvpub.com