NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS - Messages about healthy eating habits bombard Americans each and every day, but actually making healthy choices-especially when dining at a restaurant-is difficult for many, according to Kathie Robinson, registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator.

To assist East Texans in putting those messages into practice, Robinson will present a free seminar, "Eating Out: You Are What You Eat," at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 11, in the Ledbetter Gallery of The Cole Art Center @ The Old Opera House, 329 E. Main St. in downtown Nacogdoches.

"We know what we are supposed to do: 'eat less fat' or 'eat more vegetables' or 'watch salt intake,'" said Robinson. "But in order to actually make changes towards a more healthy life, we must honestly evaluate what we eat and educate ourselves as consumers."

Shelley's Café Bakery will sponsor the event and provide heart-healthy and low sodium appetizers.

The seminar is presented by the Stephen F. Austin State University College of Fine Arts and School of Art in conjunction with the current art exhibition "Eats & Treats," which includes Mark Menjivar's pictures of refrigerator interiors across the nation and Mindy Sue Meyers' sculptures of sweets and pastries.

"Kathie's presentation is a fitting complement to Mark's and Mindy's explorations of food and its effects," said Christian Cutler, SFA director of galleries.

"Eats & Treats" will run through Saturday, Aug. 29. Summer gallery hours are 12:30 to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday. Admission is free.

For more information on the seminar or exhibition, please call (936) 468-1131.