Hingham to host wine and dinner fundraiser

Saturday, March 23, will be the date that Hingham's population will more than double. People from throughout the Hi-Line will be at the Hi-Line Community Center to celebrate the annual "Men Who Cook for Women Who Wine. "

The annual fund drive provides money to families in need who are experiencing serious medical conditions. Aid is given for travel and lodging for qualifying families who live in Phillips, Blaine, Hill and Liberty counties and the Big Sandy area.

The event has become one of the main social events in the area. More than 250 people usually attend the event, which was first held in 2007. In all, $160,000 has been raised.

Area "chefs" showcase their culinary specialities and skills. People purchase tickets to taste the great food and vote for their favorites.

Each ticket provides the purchaser with a glass of wine or beer, all the food they can taste and three ballots to vote for their favorite dishes.

Throughout the night, there will be a silent auction and a live auction of items that were donated by local individuals and businesses.

Games will be offered throughout the night.

There is laughter and fun as people gather for a good time, said Cathie Haas and Joyce Donoven, two of the organizers.

So far, 97 people have received assistance from the program. They include:

• 16 from Phillips County;
• 28 from Blaine County;
• 44 from Hill County;
• 2 from Liberty County;
• 7 from the Big Sandy area.

Tickets go on sale Feb. 1. As always, advance tickets will be $20 for a single and $35 for a couple. Tickets at the door will be $25.

There is a limited amount of reserved seating. Tables of eight can be reserved for $250 by contacting Christen Obresley at Northern Montana Hospital Foundation, 406-262-1419, by March 15.

People who would like to be a chef for the evening, would like to donate or need more information can call Joyce Donoven at 395-4505 or Cathie Haas at 397-3111.

Buy tickets for 'Men Who Cook for Women Who Wine' at the following locations

Havre

• Northern Montana Hospital Foundation office
• Norman's Ranch and Sportswear
• The Walleye Tavern

Kremlin

• Ag Wise

Gildfiord

• Gildford Merc

Hingham

• Spencer's Hi-Way Bar

Rudyard

• McNair Furniture

Or tickets can be purchased from Joyce and Dennis Donoven, 395-4505, Denise and Lowell Strissel, 397-3169, Debbie and Mark Warren, 397-3135 or Cathie and Roger Haas, 397-3111.