Eating Local Boosts Breast Cancer Awareness

In a new twist on October's breast cancer awareness month, some local restaurants are selling ribbon-shaped pretzels and bagels while others are selling T-shirts and illuminating storefronts with pink lights. The efforts are intended to bring attention to breast cancer awareness month and portions of the eateries' proceeds are going toward the Susan G. Komen Foundation to help fund breast cancer research.

To bring awareness to the cause and the nosh, Westfield's Philly Pretzel Factory is donating 50 cents to the foundation for every "ribbon" pretzel purchased. October is also national pretzel month.

Rick Hendon, owner of the Westfield franchise, with his wife Kelly, says the unique ribbon shape is a best seller.

"We're just one small store but we sent in over $300 last year to Susan G. Koman," Hendon said. "This year we've already had a couple of organizations order over 150 ribbon pretzels at a time and they take them to their events.  It's very successful for us."

If you're craving a bagel, then head over to Panera in Springfield for a ribbon shaped bagel. Ten percent of the sale of the limited edition bagels will go to the Susan G. Koman Foundation during the month of October.  

And, in Summit, you can't miss the restaurant Food.  Located in the heart of town, it's bathed in pink flood lights every night in October to raise awareness of breast cancer research.  In addition, is selling limited edition T-shirts for $25 and donating $5 to Summit's own Susan G. Koman North Jersey Chapter.  

managing partner Jerry Rotunno is delighted to be involved: "The founders of Susan G. Koman are wonderful. We love to support the community and this group of women who started the foundation. Seventy-five percent of the local donations stay local in the North Jersey area. It's a terrific way to give back to the community."

serves up contemporary comforts like burgers made with Pat La Frieda beef and house made fries as well as crispy fried chicken and waffles.

It's good food for thought — in more ways than one!