Wine, food event serves up opportunities for kids
It’s about great wine and food, and toasting new opportunities for St. Catharines youth.
The mayor’s 13th annual Au Marche was held at 13th Street Winery Saturday.
The event raises money for the Investing in St. Catharines Youth Fund, which helps children in financial need for sports, recreation, music and other activities through Niagara Community Foundation.
“All the money goes to kids in St. Catharines,” said Peter Partridge, chair of the counter committee for Au Marche. “Seventy-five per cent of the proceeds get distributed each year to organizations like the ProKids, the YMCA and Jump Start through Community Care. Twenty-five per cent goes into the endowment of the St. Catharines community fund through the foundation, under the umbrella of the Niagara Community Foundation.” Au Marche was begun by Tim Rigby while he was serving as mayor 13 years ago. The tradition has been carried on by the succeeding mayors. Over the course of the past 13 years, about 2,400 kids have been helped and more than $300,000 raised.
“It’s a unique place to celebrate, food, wine and local artists in support of the Niagara Community Foundation,” said Mayor Walter Sendzik. “The numbers are up again this year,” said Sendzik. “I think the venue and how many restaurants, wineries and breweries we have has really attracted people plus we have local talent.”
“I think this event speaks to how important supporting local charitable organizations is on the government level and on the volunteer level. It’s a nice way to celebrate the summer and do good things for kids.” Bryan Rose, executive director of Niagara Community Foundation
About 225 people attended the event that featured local restaurants, wineries, craft breweries and entertainment by local talent, including a Tragically Hip sing-along by a bonfire after the sun set.
“I think this event speaks to how important supporting local charitable organizations is on the government level and on the volunteer level,” said Bryan Rose, executive director of Niagara Community Foundation. “It’s a nice way to celebrate the summer and do good things for kids.”
Sendzik hopes to expand the event next year.
“People are attracted to the wine country experience within the borders of St. Catharines,” he said. “And I like the fact that people aren’t wearing suits and ties. This is really what Niagara is all about. People are wearing nice T-shirts or dress shirts with flip flops and jeans and shorts — this is how you should be celebrating Niagara in the summer time.”