Susan Balla

CRANBERRY TWP — THE CHAMBER of Commerce Inc.'s Taste of Cranberry celebrates its 10th year with an evening of food from more than 20 restaurants.

The event will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Sept. 15 at the township municipal center, 2525 Rochester Road.

The event had been a sellout when it previously was hosted by the Cranberry Area Chamber of Commerce before its merger into THE CHAMBER, and the event is already close to selling out this year, said Kathy Oliver, director of marketing and public relations and events coordinator.

There are fewer than 100 tickets remaining. THE CHAMBER has increased the number of tickets from previous years to 700 from 600 because of its popularity, Oliver said.

The event gives attendees an opportunity to sample foods and desserts from area restaurants and some stores.

There also will be chamber member-only vendors offering information on the goods and services that they sell.

"It (The Taste of Cranberry) is our gift to the community. For $10, you get the value of about $30," said Susan Balla, executive director of THE CHAMBER. "We bring the community together to taste some of the fine foods from our local restaurants. They are also able to see some things our area businesses have to offer.

"And, we're giving back to the community," she said. "This year, we've decided to donate a portion of the proceeds to the fire department."

The funds will go to the Cranberry Township Volunteer Fire Co. The rest of the money raised will help fund chamber programs.

The fire company will be a part of the event with a fire truck for children to explore, and visitors will be able to sample some firehouse chili during the chili cook-off event.

A township police vehicle and ambulance also will be on display.

Entertainment for the evening will be by the Ambridge High School Steel Drum Band.

New for this year, children will have the opportunity to play in the KidZone.

Oliver said there will be games, prizes and other activities. The Giant Eagle in Seven Fields will provide tailgate party food samples.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 5 to 12, and free for children younger than 5. There also is a $25 family pack with tickets for two adults and two children.

To buy tickets, call 724-776-4949 or 724-934-9700 or visit the website http://thechamberinc.com.