What is the "Annual CSA Conference"?

The Annual CSA Conference is a major event in CSA's yearly calendar. It is designed for individuals and their families who are interested in information relating to celiac disease and dermatitis herpetiformis. CSA invites experts from a broad spectrum of disciplines relating to celiac disease and the required gluten-free diet to share current information. Researchers, healthcare professionals, dietitians, authors, chefs, restaurant owners, and gluten-free food vendors participate in this educational event.

The Annual Conference serves three principal purposes for CSA:

• Annual Educational Updates on the Status of Celiac Disease.

• Annual Membership Meeting

• Annual Governing Board Meeting

Continuing education units are offered to medical professionals.

Participants can enjoy worry-free gluten-free meals, as well as the opportunity to network with other individuals that have celiac disease.

How do I register for the conference?

Register by calling 1-877-CSA-4-CSA with a credit card.

The registration form can be detached from Lifeline Issue II, 2009 or can be printed from the 32nd Annual CSA Conference page. Fill out the form and: 

• mail with your payment to Celiac Sprue Association, PO Box 31700, Omaha, Nebraska 68131
• or fax (1-402-643-4108) with credit card information

Walk-ins will be able to register but conference meals and materials may not be available

Is it necessary to pre-register?

Those who register early will receive the discount rate. On 10/12/09 registration fees will increase 30%.

Walk-in registration will be accepted. Fees will be based on the late registration. However, meals and materials for last minute registrants may be limited.

Do I have to register for the full conference?

One day only registrations are available for Friday and Saturday. Registration fee includes lunch, gratuity and taxes, admission to that days sessions and exhibit hall as well as a conference syllabus. Individuals attending one day only can have the option of purchasing additional meals.

My spouse will be accompanying me but will not be attending the conference. What about meals for him/her?

Guest meals should be purchased at the time of registration. Walk-in registration guest meals may be limited.

What is included for a full conference registration?

Full registration includes meals, gratuity and taxes, admission to sessions and exhibit hall as well as the conference syllabus and speaker presentation recordings set.   

What is included for children, youth and young adult registrations?

Programs are specially designed for CSA KidZone (Ages 7-11), CSA Teenscene (Ages 12-16) and CSA Young Adults (Ages 17-21).

Registration includes meals, gratuity and taxes, admission to specific group activities and exhibit hall. Young adults also receive the conference syllabus and admission to sessions.

What is the Conference Exhibit Hall?

The Conference Exhibit Hall features a variety of gluten-free items from food manufacturers, suppliers and health food stores each offering products for sampling or purchase.  

What is The Store?
The Store is the location where attendees can purchase items that CSA sells. Complimentary items contributed by gluten-free companies will possibly be available.  

Does a parent or guardian of a minor attending the Conference have to register?

All minors must have a parent or guardian registered as a conference participant.

Will there be infant and toddler care available during the Conference?

Child care will not be available at Conference.

Will conference meals and snacks be gluten-free?

Yes, all meals and snacks will be gluten-free.

Will there be airport transportation to and from the hotel?
The average taxi from the Erie International Airport to the Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel and the Bayfront Convention Center is $17 and the distance is 6.7 miles.

Why should I reserve rooms at the CSA conference-designated hotel?

By staying at the convention hotel, you gain the opportunity to conveniently network with your CSA friends and fellow conference attendees. You remain in the center of the activity surrounding the conference. Staying at the conference designated hotel benefits you financially and logistically. When staying at another hotel, which may seem cheaper, you may incur transportation costs and lose convenience and efficiency. The meeting room costs for the conference are reduced based upon the number of guests registered at designated hotel.

Detailed explanation

How can I find another individual interested in sharing hotel guest room accommodations?
Contact CSA by e-mail at celiacs@csaceliacs.org or toll-free 1-877-CSA-4-CSA.

Is there a gluten-free restaurant guide?

Erie, Pennsylvania area gluten-free restaurant guide.

Restaurant guides will also be available during conference at the chapter table.

Where can I learn more about area attractions?

Learn more about Erie through www.visiterie.com