“The first dinner (seven years ago) was a joint effort between the Village and its then food vendor Mablene’s (Donna and Jim MacNeil),” explains, Rodney Chaisson, director of the Highland Village. “It was initially intended as a benefit for our then councillor Dan E. MacNeil who was being treated for a rare form of cancer. Dan E. suggested that the monies actually go to the Patient Care Fund. Thus our annual dinner was born. Jim and Donna are no longer able to help us with the dinner, so this year, the Legion and the CWL have joined us in ensuring that this community dinner continues for years to come. Victoria County has also been a sponsor for several years now.”
“There have been many people in our area that have benefited from the work of the Centre and in particular the Patient Care Fund,” Chiasson explains, “The money is being raised for the Patient Care Fund of the CB Cancer Centre. This fund assists cancer patients with costs associated with cancer treatment.”
Musical guests for the event are Donnie Campbell, Joanne MacIntyre, Anita MacDonald, Jenny Tingley, among others. The event itself takes place at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #124, 4237 Hwy 223, in Iona.
The menu for the evening starts with an array of hand-made appetizers, then an Arugula salad with freshly grated parmesan cheese, topped with cherry tomatoes and hazel nuts, drizzled with a lemon dressing. The entree is roasted hip of beef highlighted with a béarnaise sauce served with baked stuffed potatoes and roasted root vegetables with maple syrup. For dessert there is heavenly chocolate delight. As well, there are gluten free options available.
Cocktails begin at 6pm with the dinner served at 7pm. Tickets are $30 each and are available from the Highland Village (725-2272) or the Legion (725-2178). All tickets must be prepaid.
