Pie Palooza
I’m a big fan of pie and next month two local events—both fundraisers for worthy causes—pay it homage.
The fifth annual Pie Palooza, an unconventional Sunday brunch, takes place on November 8 at the
Goodman Community Center, 149 Waubesa Street, between 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Pie Palooza has more than doubled in size since its inception; this year at least 20 local businesses will donate pies. This event is a fundraiser for REAP (Research, Action and Policy) Food Group, a local organization that promotes a sustainable and healthy food system.
REAP connects producers, consumers, policy makers, educators, businesses and organizations to nourish links between land and table. Its mission is “committed to projects that shorten the distance from farm to table, support small family farmers, encourage sustainable agricultural practices, preserve the diversity and safety of our food supply and address the food security of everyone in our community.”
Their brunch offers a choice of two slices of pie, both sweet and savory, a farm-fresh salad and beverage. Previous Pie Paloozas have attracted sell-out crowds, and this year is expected to be no different. Reservations are taken for one of the three one-hour slots (walk-ins are welcome between 12:30 – 1 p.m.). Tickets sell for $16 in advance and $18 at the door. Click
here to purchase tickets or call the REAP office: (608) 310-7836.

Savory pie choices should appeal to vegetarians and meat lovers alike. Sweet pies will include traditional favorites and innovative creations. Examples include savory root vegetable pie from
Sophia's Bakery & Cafe, poached pear pie from
Fresco, Napoli cheese prosciutto pie from
Lombardino's and apple crisp cheesecake from
Grace's Cheesecakes. The REAP website will have an up-to-date list of pie donors and choices.
For the first time this year, you will also be able to purchase ready-to-freeze (or eat) pumpkin or apple pie for $15. These can also be ordered online or at Pie Palooza.
All proceeds from Pie Palooza support REAP Food Group programs.
More pie, please!
Glenwood Moravian Church is geeting ready for its annual Chicken Pie Sale. These are not your mother’s chicken pot pie, but made from an old Southern recipe. A flaky crust is filled with all meat—both white and dark meat chicken. It come frozen—ready for the freezer or oven—with gravy on the side. Each year the members of the congregation make about 500 pies whose sale support the good works of the church.
Pies must be ordered in advance by calling (608) 233-8709. The cost is $14 each. Friday, November 13 is the last day to place an order. Pies can be picked up at the church on Wednesday, November 18 between 1 – 6 p.m. The church is located at 725 Gilmore Street—right off Monroe—across from Wingra School.
Wil-Mar Neighborhood Center also sells holiday pies each year the week before Thanksgiving. Check their website or call (608) 257-4576 for more information.