The Rotary Club of Fernie is thrilled to announce the resounding success of its inaugural fundraising extravaganza, “Feast for a Cause,” held on May 4, at the Fernie Community Centre.

Talented chefs from 12 local restaurants Bramasole’, Chilango Mexican, Chop Stick Truck, Curry Bowl, Iggy’s, Island Lake Lodge, Loaf Italian Restaurant, Park Place Lodge, Pastryland, Rooftop Cafe’, Tandoor Grill, and The Bridge Bistro, showcased their culinary expertise, offering creative dishes that delighted guests taste buds.

“We are overwhelmed by the tremendous support and turnout for this inaugural fundraiser,” said Anita Palmer, President of the Rotary Club of Fernie. “This sold-out event is a testament to the generosity and commitment of our community towards supporting important local causes.”

Over $40,000 was raised at Feast for a Cause, with funds earmarked for the East Kootenay Foundation for Health’s (EKFH) ‘Warm Embrace’ campaign and a local community project to be chosen by The Rotary Club of Fernie.

The culinary highlight of the evening was the recognition bestowed upon Chilango Mexican, whose talented team claimed, ‘Best Bite’ and ‘People’s Choice’ awards, taking home two custom awards created by local artisan’s Wild Wolves Design.

“Chilango Mexican’s exceptional culinary talents truly captivated our attendees, earning them well-deserved recognition from both our esteemed panel of judges and the community at large,” added Chef Barrie Elliott, Feast for a Cause Culinary Advisor. “Their dedication to their craft is commendable, and we congratulate them on this outstanding achievement.”

The success of Feast for a Cause would not have been possible without the generous support of many partners, including:

• Teck Resources
• Eldho’s Independent Grocery
• NWP Coal Canada Ltd.
• PJB Crane Services
• Columbia Basin Trust (CBT)
• Lauren Gervais – Professional Real Estate Corporation
• McElhanney
• Vogue Theatre
• Westland Insurance
• Resort Municipality Initiative (RMI)
• Tourism Fernie

Additionally, the event featured over 40 silent auction donations with a retail value of over $15,000, further enhancing the fundraising efforts. We extend our sincere appreciation to all the donors for their generosity.

Special thanks to Chef Barrie Elliott, Faye Latulippe, Sadie Rosgen, Haymaker Marketing Studio, Fernie Printing Co., Patti’s Party Tent Rentals, Stemhouse Floral Studio, and Susan Teslak, whose support and collaboration contributed to the success of the event.

“The success of Feast for a Cause is owed to a small but very talented group of individuals who volunteered hundreds of hours designing and delivering this event,” added Palmer.  “Their vision and dedication made this event possible in 2024 and has laid the foundation for future successful ‘Feast’ fundraisers.”

For more information about the Rotary Club of Fernie and its initiatives, please visit www.fernierotary.org.

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