Mashed potato martini bar 

Carol Carbino from Ingleside is pictured completing her mashed potato martini during the House of Lazarus Ladies Night Out Fundraiser on Sat., Feb. 23 at Matilda Hall near Dixon’s Corners. Carbino explained Trinity United Church in Ingleside, part of the South Stormont Pastoral Charge, is a strong supporter of the House of Lazarus.  Thompson Goddard photo

DIXON’S CORNERS – Once again, the Ladies Night Out fundraiser for the House of Lazarus Food Bank was a resounding success! Kim Merkley, client service manager of HOL estimated approximately 200 people attended the fundraising event. South Dundas deputy mayor Kirsten Gardner was emcee for the evening and commented how “anytime you have the community come together to send the message ‘people matter when they need support the most’ [it] is a win-win fundraiser”.  

Now in its third year, the action-packed evening event was held at Matilda Hall located just outside Dixon’s Corners on Feb. 23 featuring the opportunity to shop, enjoy visiting with friends, watch fashion shows, perhaps line dance and enjoy refreshments. There was a long line- up for the very popular mashed potato martini that consisted of mashed potatoes placed in a martini glass with a selection of toppings available to diners, as well as many enjoying the brownie delight dessert in a wine glass and coffee or tea to complete their dining experience.  

While people enjoyed a chance to visit and enjoy the refreshments, fashion shows courtesy of Juli Fashion in Morrisburg and Main Street Clothing Company of Winchester were held.  Between the two shows, Workshop Dance Studio in Kemptville provided two 15-minute line dancing sessions. Throughout the evening there was plenty of opportunity to check out the Silent Auction or survey the 28 vendors who had a selection of merchandise for sale at the event. 

Merkley thanked all the people and businesses who supported the event as well as the House of Lazarus throughout the year. Information on the Ladies Night Out program explained “all proceeds from this event will go towards funding House of Lazarus’ many Outreach Programs.  Last year 2,630 people were provided with food, clothing, furniture and household goods through Outreach”. Sandy Casselman, Linking Hands coordinator for the House of Lazarus, explained that while the final dollar figure is still being tabulated, they estimate approximately $6,000 was raised.  

The third annual Linking Hands Expo and Family Fun Day is set for Wed., March 13 at North Dundas District High School, with Casselman mentioning plans are firming up for the 2019 event. In addition to booths providing information on the various resources available to residents of Dundas County, Casselman said vendors from the Ladies Night event have been invited to attend and there will be several activities for youngsters at the event. 

More information on the House of Lazarus can be found on their Facebook page or website.