Vancouver, WA -- Chef Garrett Berdan returns to Clark County Thursday, March 26 to offer a free training on strategies to enhance flavor and reduce sodium, focusing on flavors from Mexico and Southeast Asia. The training takes place 9-11 a.m. at Clark College Columbia Tech Center, 18700 SE Mill Plain Blvd., cooking school kitchen. Clark County Public Health is sponsoring the event under a federal grant from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Using Chef Berdan’s techniques, several Clark County restaurants have successfully implemented sodium reduction strategies without sacrificing flavor,” said Melissa Martin, community health specialist. “These restaurants are positioning themselves to meet a growing consumer demand for healthy places to eat.” Martin said the training is geared for independent locally owned restaurants. Registration is required; please contact melissa.martin@clark.wa.gov or (360) 397-8000 ext. 7291. Berdan is a registered dietitian who offers workshops for professional cooks across the country. He has been recognized by the White House as a “Champion of Change” and is past president of the Oregon Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Many Americans consume more sodium than recommended under federal dietary guidelines. High sodium levels from salty foods are linked to high blood pressure, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes.