Neither rain nor wind nor threat of tornadoes

WARWICK — The annual Taste of Warwick has enjoyed an extraordinary record of near perfect weather throughout the years.
And even the threat of rain last week would not have altered the scheduling of this year’s event for Tuesday evening, Sept. 18.
The Chamber of Commerce had already prepared for rain with a heavy tent erected on the Warwick Valley Winery and Distillery’s 4000 square-foot patio instead of the usual location on what might have been a wet grassy surface. And there was also additional space for guests in the winery or on a sheltered courtyard.
But when a low-pressure system was predicted to bring not only heavy rain but also severe weather with high winds and possible tornadoes, the event was rescheduled for the following evening.
Since some of the ticket holders could not change their plans, their money had to be refunded. And since many of those, who often wait until the last few days to purchase tickets, had already been discouraged by early weather forecasts, the attendance, 150, was significantly less than previous years
Last year, for example, 280 tickets were sold.
Nevertheless, those who did attend enjoyed clear skies and comfortable evening temperatures. And according to Michael Johndrow, executive director of the Warwick Valley Chamber of Commerce, many reported that the 19th annual Taste of Warwick offered the best sampling of gourmet dishes and wine to date.
“We appreciate all those who participate and who take time away from their own businesses to make our annual Taste of Warwick a success,” said Johndrow, “We urge everyone in our community to support them.”