PRE-CONFERENCE I The Fight Against Childhood Obesity Amy R. Shows, PhD, RD, LD Professor of Nutrition, Lamar University Natalie Long, MS, RD, LD Adjunct Instructor, Lamar University Rhonda Lane, MS Policy Development Coordinator, Food Nutrition Division, TDA

The panel presentation will be organized into three parts: Part I, Defining the Problem of Childhood Obesity, the presenter will define obesity-related terms, discuss trends in obesity over the last two decades, address  state obesity statistics and identify risks of childhood obesity. Part II, Material Body Mass Index (BMI) as Predictor of Child Weight Status, is a presentation of original research. The presenter surveyed mothers of first grade students in local school districts to determine if material (BMI) and perception of eating affected children. Study protocol, findings, conclusions and recommendations are presented. Part III, Addressing the Problem of Childhood Obesity, will focus on Texas initiatives for curtailing the growing childhood obesity epidemic in schools. The presenter will provide an update on Texas Public School Nutrition Policy, as well as legislative bills pertinent to the fight against childhood obesity. The session will conclude with a question/answer session.

PRE-CONFERENCE II Recognizing Signs and Symptoms of Sexually Abused Children Dr. Lawrence Dilks, PhD McNeese University Mr. Mike Monic, MA, LKC Jennings, Louisinia
	The purpose of this workshop is to introduce teachers, counselors, psychologists, and administrators to the common signs and symptoms of children who are victims of sexual abuse. By becoming more efficient in recognition, abused individuals may be rapidly identified, reported to the authorities, and appropriate interventions initiated. Strategies used by predators and situations likely to be encountered will be reviewed. Upon completion, participants will be able to identify typical features of children who have been sexually exploited, enact appropriate reporting procedures, and describe potential intervention strategies.