RIVERFEST OFFERING A TASTE OF EUROPE

Those folks who won't be attending Riverfest because they're tired of funnel cakes, cotton candy and corn dogs might want to think again.

This year's Riverfest, held June 14-15, will have an assortment of new foods that are distinctly un-American and vastly different from edibles offered at past Riverfests.

"We've got something in European cuisine while last year everything was American," said Denise Potter, concessions chairperson for the festival. "I was really just tired of the same old thing."

Potter said she made a concerted effort to encourage the 18 Riverfest vendors to bring in new foods.

"People have had enough of corn dogs and funnel cakes," she said.

This year's Riverfest will offer Mediterranean, Greek and Korean foods for people to choose from.

Among other new foods, the Mediterranean food vendor will entice Riverfest goers with a different kind of funnel cake that will have either fresh fruit or ice cream on top.

The Greek food will be a specially marinated beef kabob, which Potter promises to be a lowfat meal.

They will also have a chicken divine sandwich that won't be as fatty as beef or as caloric as sweets for those who are health conscious, Potter said.

A vendor from South Dakota will offer "Incredible Edibles," which include batter-fried cauliflower, broccoli, squash and cheese sticks.

Those with a craving for Korean can try their crab rangoons.

But those who do come for the standard Riverfest cuisine won't be disappointed.

There will still be corn dogs and good old fashioned funnel cakes for those who never tire of them. Cotton candy, shaved ice, curly fries and nachos are all coming back for repeat performances this weekend, too.

Such popular franchise restaurants as TCBY and Dominoes will offer ice cream and pizza.

Peggy Barringer, a member of the Riverfest board of directors, said she believes that people like to try new things.

"We always try to do new and different things at Riverfest," Barringer said. "Every year's a new improved model."

She says the Riverfest board is always on the lookout for something fresh and distinct.

"We try to make the whole event unique whether it's food or entertainment," she said.

Potter said people are sure to come out to try the new foods and knows which food she's looking forward to the most.

"I'm headed for the fried veggies first thing," she said. "Forget about the health food."