Cancer coalition to host 'Nutrifood Challenge'

Sussex COUNTY — In an effort to increase awareness of cancer through the promotion of healthy eating habits, the Sussex County Cancer Coalition, a program of Saint Clare's Health System, will present "NutriFood Challenge" at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 30, at the Sussex County Technical School on North Church Road in Sparta. Sussex County Technical School culinary students will be challenged to create six dishes of three entrees and three desserts, without the use of hydrogenated oils, refined or bleached flours, sugars, and other highly processed ingredients. Whole grain flours, healthier alternatives, and natural and organic ingredients will be encouraged. "This event is the first of its kind in the region," stated Alicia Oasteen Thomas, coordinator of the Sussex County Cancer Coalition. "It provides us the opportunity to raise awareness of cancer, while adding a fun and unique learning experience for the culinary students of Sussex County Technical School. Think of it as ‘The Iron Chef' with a healthy, natural twist." The competition will be judged by a panel of three local business representatives, including Eileen Arvary, supervisor of the Career Education Department at Sussex County Technical School; Pam Geiger, program coordinator of the New Jersey Cancer Education and Early Detection Program, and the cancer program coordinator for Saint Clare's Hospital in Sussex; and Stephen Bocskocsky, chief administrative officer of Saint Clare's Hospital in Sussex. All competitors will be required to wear proper attire, and business casual attire is suggested for those attending the event. Prizes will be awarded for outstanding creativity and technique. First place will receive a one night's stay at The Alpine Haus in Vernon and a $50 gift certificate to Salon Di Panache in Newton. Second prize is a winter season pass to Mountain Creek. The third place competitor will receive lunch for two at Café Pierrot in Sparta and a $25 Home Depot gift card. "There is a proven connection between good nutrition and the successful treatment and prevention of cancers," continued Thomas. "Cancer is the second leading cause of death for women in the United States, and countless numbers of lives have been lost to many treatable or preventable cancers." Sponsors of the event include Crystal Springs Golf Club and Resort, The Alpine Haus Bed and Breakfast, A&P of Sussex, Café Pierrot, Mountain Creek, Kuperus Farmside Gardens and Florist, Farmstead Golf and Country Club, Salon Di Panache, Wine Country, Home Depot and the Chrysler Corporation. Advance tickets are available at a cost of $8. Seating is limited to 150, and tickets can be purchased by calling Thomas at 973-702-2790. Saint Clare's Health System, which has served the healthcare needs of northwestern New Jersey residents since 1895, is the region's premier provider of community-based healthcare and behavioral health services. It operates four hospitals and other facilities located throughout Morris and Sussex counties.