So tasty

WARWICK — On Sunday, May 4, the 10th annual Taste of the Town was held on St. Stephen's Parish grounds.

The huge tent accommodated 28 booths for local restaurants, wineries and other vendors as well as about 1,500 ticket holders who attended the popular annual event.

This year's Taste of the Town earned more than $18,000.

Proceeds will be used to benefit St. Stephen's - St. Edward's School as well as the entire parish and others in the community, who use school facilities.

In addition to the local restaurants, wineries and musical entertainment, this year's event also featured additional outdoor family style entertainment including a petting zoo, pony rides, a batting practice cage and a classic car show and contest. And later in the afternoon there was also an Irish step dancing demonstration courtesy of Kerry Dancing NY.

"Our efforts paid off in an event that provided superior food and stellar entertainment," said event chair Mary Juliano. "And once again we appreciate the effort and enthusiasm of all our restaurants and vendors, because without them this community gathering would not be possible."

Although most vendors use part of the proceeds to cover expenses, many of the participants donated all their earnings back to Taste of the Town.

As an added attraction each restaurant was judged for best selections in three categories: Fine Dining, Comfort Food and Dessert.

The first-place winner for Fine Dining was Drunken Cherry Cookie Co.

Chumley's BBQ took first place in comfort food and Jean Claude's Artisan Bakery & Dessert Café won first place for Dessert.

"Our parish educates over 1300 children in our superb school and excellent religious education program," the Rev. Michael McLoughlin, pastor of the Church of St. Stephen, the First Martyr, said. "Your presence and support helps to ensure that they will continue to receive a quality education with sound religious, moral and civic values. You are helping to form the citizens of tomorrow."