Fundraising event matches local people with local tastes

Foodie committee members of the Upper Bucks Chamber of Commerce from left to right: Brenda Hoot, Jarod Sands, Dennis Wimmer, Diana Bernecker-Asbury,  Josh Palmer, Susan Dale, Danielle Bodnar, Tracy Kline, Sue Quinque, Collin Cunningham, and Leanna Knight.

            The 14th annual Upper Bucks Foodie event was held on Thursday October 10 at the Sands Chrysler Jeep Dodge Showroom. It was an evening filled with local delicious eats, wines, spirits and brews. The vibe was celebratory and everyone in attendance seemed to enjoy the festivities.

            The event was hosted by the Upper Bucks Chamber of Commerce and proceeds

Cheyenne White of Quakertown prepares pierogies at the Foodie.  Babushka's Hungarian cafe is located in the Quakertown Farmers Market.

benefit the Pennsylvania Free Enterprise Week. The program educates high school students on the U.S. free enterprise system. It connects young people with business owners throughout the state. In 34 years, approximately 31,000 students have received unique educational experiences that teach vital life skills for running a business.

            Among the attendees was Doug Propst of the Quakertown Borough Council. "I really enjoy finding different restaurants to go and try. Derstine's beef brisket slider is one of my favorites.  It's really good."   Tina and John Mininger were also there enjoying the areas great dining establishments. John sits on the Board of the Chamber of Commerce. John shared what he enjoyed about the evening saying, "The variety of food and vendors and the different things to try is great".

            Judy Schmauder and Terry San Angelo have been friends and residents of the Quakertown area for many years. "It's a great place to raise a family", said Terry. They

Donald Mensch and Jason Vandyke dish out heart warm- ing, homemade chicken bot boi and delectible pumpkin soup for guests at the Foodie.

both raved about the amazing foods and drinks to try at the event.

            And, there was much to take in. It was necessary to make several rounds at each vendor.

            Amy's Creative Cakes provided a delicious sampling of delectable sweets. The creamy espresso chocolate cake and green tea lemon truffles were amazing. Amy and her crew were delighted to share their edible art with attendees. The sweet treats were delicious as well as pleasing to the eye.

            Donald Mensch and Jason Vandyke of Boova Haus served their famous chicken bot boi soup made with handmade egg noodles and seasonal savory pumpkin winter squash soup.  The charming duo definitely put heart into their food. Both soups warmed and soothed the soul. They are famous for their handmade Boova Shankel, a Pennsylvania Dutch style pierogi.

            Flip City Shakes shared good vibes and handed out pumpkin ice cream that put you in a dreamy, creamy bliss. The restaurant is known for their burgers, shakes and fries.

            Representing Babushka's of Quakertown was Cheyanne White. She attends Quakertown High school and enjoys working for the eatery and has been there for a little over a year. "My boss is really great. I learn a lot. I knew I had to learn to cook for myself someday. Before working here, I would burn water", she shared. Cheyanne was energetically cooking up handmade pierogi and serving the fried delights with a dollop of sour cream.

            Mountain Lake Winery handed out samples of locally made wine. Sage Alley Brewery, Kilimanjaro Distillery, Weyerbacher and Free Will Brewers were popular vendors. For a non-alcoholic healthy drink, High Point Kombucha handed out samples. Cascade at Durham and the Washington House provided examples of fine dining eats. There were many other amazing vendors with great food and drink.

            Katie Brant, a third generation farmer and her family owns and operates the Weisel Farm in Spinnerstown. They are a Farm to Fork providing natural food to the community. Katie described the time and energy they put into operating a farm. It truly is a labor of love. They raise beef, poultry and pork as well as seasonal produce and flowers. Hay, straw, eggs and firewood are available year round. Attendees were gifted winter squash with recipes attached and dried ears of red popcorn.

            The social occasion was an evening filled with great food, drink and people that benefits a wonderful cause promoting the education of area youth in entrepreneurism.