Fifteenth annual Taste of Coshocton held at Lake Park Pavilion
Rob and Debbie Ford were two of the many people who enjoyed the 15th annual Taste of Coshocton on Aug. 8. Becca Maddux | Beacon
COSHOCTON – For 15 years, people have started lining up at the Lake Park Pavilion well before the time doors will be opened so they can be the first to sample the treats at the Taste of Coshocton. This year was no exception as the line began to form before 5 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 8.
“We sold about 300 tickets before today,” said Lyn Mizer, director of the United Way. “But a lot of people buy their tickets at the door.” For $12, attendees can choose eight different samples of food from 15 local vendors. “We have everything from salads to pulled pork. Sweet and savory – any taste you could want. I would be surprised if everyone could eat all eight of their samples – you get so much.”
Mizer said all of the money raised at the event will go towards the United Way’s campaign. “This is our largest fundraiser and all of the money is used right here in our community. This is the kickoff to our campaign, and we will soon be asking the community for their support. Last year, 20,000 people benefited from the United Way through various programs we support.”
Mizer also shared that besides United Way members helping, there were many students helping at the Taste of Coshocton. “They help set up and clear trays as people finish. And they help tear down. They are so much help and we are so appreciative of them coming.”
There were four new vendors at the event this year. Amy Moran, from Mayor’s Corner in West Bedford, said the United Way called and asked if she wanted to be part of the Taste of Coshocton. “It’s good business to be here. I’ve been in business 26 years and this is the first time I’ve been here. We are famous for our chef salads.” Samples of the chef salad and a “squealer” sandwich were available. A squealer is ham, pulled pork, BBQ sauce, bacon and jumping jack cheese.
Ridgewood General Store is another new vendor at the Taste of Coshocton. Owner Jay Davis also said the United Way contacted them. “We love people and love to be part of things so we’re happy to be here.” They were offering samples of Tractor Soda. “It’s an all-natural soda that you can’t get just anywhere. There are lots of different flavors such as cucumber, coconut and cherry cream.” Davis said he and his wife are always looking for something new and unique for their store. “We like to give people experiences. We don’t want them to just find a great product – we want them to enjoy the experience, too.”
For sweet treats, new vendor, Newcastle Farmhaus, was ready to serve. Owners Emma Keen and Heidi Miller brought pies, homemade bread, cookies, cheesecake and other treats. “This is good marketing for us, and we get to meet other businesses in the county,” said Keen. “We like what the United Way does and wanted to be part of it.”
Legacy Lanes was the other new vendor. Sue Oswald and her husband are the owners. “We thought this would be a great opportunity to share something we serve that’s really popular.” The business was offering samples of their grilled chicken or steak salad with homemade croutons. Oswald said they are often adding new items to their menu and orders are available for takeout, too.
Mizer said the evening was all about fun, fellowship and friends. “We want everyone to have a good time and enjoy themselves.”
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