Tickets are on sale for United Way's Taste of Wayne
By Becky Barclay
Published in News on September 27, 2010 1:46 PM
Whether you're in the mood for barbecue, ham biscuits, pizza, Peruvian delights or just a sweet treat, the annual Taste of Wayne County will have it all.
This is the 20th year of the United Way of Wayne County event, which will be Thursday, Oct. 14, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at Wayne Community College.
"It was changed to October so it won't be so hot," said Sally Worrell, United Way board vice president and past Taste chairman. "And it's a beautiful venue with all the trees."
The college will don festive garb with balloons and lights sprinkled throughout.
Anywhere from 30 to 40 food and drink vendors will take part in the Taste. That includes the old regulars like Village Steak House, Brooklyn Pizza and Franklin Bakery, as well as new ones like Mile High Hot Sauce.
New this year will be entertainment by none other than The King himself -- also known as Elvis impersonator Stephen Freeman.
The Taste promises to be an extra special one because it's United Way's 85th birthday. "So we're doing it special this year," said Gretchen Reed, chairman.
"The Taste is a chance to try the different restaurants in Wayne County," she said. "You don't have to actually go to the restaurant and wonder what it has. And by the time you go around to all the vendors, it's a complete meal with appetizers, entrees, desserts and beverages."
Suzie Acree, United Way associate director, said the event is also a fun time to get out as a family, sample some good food and learn what the United Way and its community partners do for Wayne County residents -- more than 28,000 are expected to receive some help this year.
"That's one of four people in Wayne County that are touched by the programs United Way funds here each year," Mrs. Acree said.
Mrs. Worrell said the Taste is also a chance for local food vendors to support the United Way campaign, and to network with other restaurant owners to share ideas.
And businesses winning awards have bragging rights for a year.
Awards this year are for Hometown Favorites, Special Occasion Dinner, Pub Grub and Appetizers, Barbecue, Pizza, Fast Food, Healthy Foods, Desserts, Drinks and Breakfast, Breads and Pastries.
The coveted People's Choice Award is won through votes of those attending the Taste.
There will also be door prizes for those attending the event.
Tickets are $15 and free for children younger than 6. They are available at the United Way office, Wayne County Chamber of Commerce, Mount Olive Chamber of Commerce, Berry Town Crafts at O'Berry Center, Zaxby's and Outdoor Recreation at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base.
For the first time this year, tickets may be purchased online through a secure site at www.unitedwayne.org and will be available at the event.
For more information, call United Way at 735-3591.