To educate the public about the many benefits of eating well, the Men’s Health Task Force of the American Cancer Society, Northwest Suburban region is sponsoring the second installment in the Eating Well Series: Back in School: Snacks, Brown Bag Lunches and Breakfast to Go on Thursday, November 8 from 7-8 pm at Grand Station restaurant (101 West Campbell Street, Arlington Heights). The first event, On Your Table in 33 Minutes, premiered last fall to a sell-out crowd.

The American Cancer Society is again featuring task force volunteer, corporate chef and father of two, Danny Serio, along with Mariano’s Fresh Market’s registered dietician, Peggy Balboa. Together, Serio and Balboa will show parents how they can make kid-friendly snacks and meals that are not only delicious, but simple to prepare for families on the go. By teaching individuals how to make a healthy entrees and snacks that can travel to soccer games or be eaten during study hall, the American Cancer Society hopes to reinvigorate home cooking as an alternative to fast food, pre-packaged snacks and school lunches.

“We are excited to have Peggy and Danny represent the American Cancer Society and demonstrate how to reduce risk of cancer through diet,” said Char Padovani, Health Initiatives manager for the American Cancer Society Northwest Suburban region. “It is estimated that excess body weights contributes to 14-20 percent of all cancer mortality. Today, we are facing an obesity epidemic. Two-thirds of adults and 16 percent of children are overweight or obese. Creative, how-to programs such as these, increase the community’s awareness about the value of eating fruits, vegetables and whole grains, illustrate the hidden “costs” of favorite snack foods and show parents concrete steps they can take to prevent obesity in their children. By the end of the program, participants will know how to prep fruits and veggies in minutes, turn Sunday night chicken into portable lunches and involve the kids in the fun.”

Space is limited for this free event, however, registration is required. Contact Charlene.padovani@cancer.org or call 847-368-1172.

About the American Cancer Society

The American Cancer Society combines an unyielding passion with nearly a century of experience to save lives and end suffering from cancer. As a global grassroots force with more than 100,000 volunteers in Illinois and millions elsewhere, we fight for every birthday threatened by every cancer in every community. As a result, more than 11 million people in America who have had cancer, and countless more who have avoided it, will be celebrating birthdays this year. To learn more or if you or someone you know has cancer, call us any time at 1-800-227-2345 or visit cancer.org for help.