This February, you can step back in time to the grand era of paddlewheeler travel along the Mississippi River while also supporting Northumberland youth and seniors.
The Rotary Club of Cobourg’s Beth Selby – serving as chair of the February fundraising and organizing committee – tells us the club has a special event in the works, building off the success of a roaring 20s sold-out speakeasy event last year.
The riverboats of the era were described as luxurious and filled with great food, dancing and gambling experiences – and Rotary’s “Mississippi Riverboat Cruise” fundraiser is shaping up to deliver on these vintage riverboat experiences while transforming the Mill in Cobourg.
Selby tells us more about how the Mill is the perfect spot and what participants can expect.
In other words, each floor will be used to transport guests into the “opulent era of the riverboats,” all of them offering something unique in terms of entertainment, food and surprises, ultimately aimed at making folks feel like they’re “sailing down the Mississippi River in style.”
And vintage-inspired attire is encouraged (although not a requirement.)
The evening will also feature everything else from signature cocktails influenced by the era, to a “gourmet Mississippi-inspired menu” by Prep Food Co., along with other professional chefs.
Selby tells us more.
A silent auction, the Rotary getaway raffle, and other exciting cruise-like experiences will round out the festivities. Some of the prizes include a $5,000 travel voucher, a $1,500 Visa gift card, and $750 VIA Rail gift card.
And through the funds raised, the club, with help from a number of sponsors, hopes to do some good in the community.
“Our fundraiser will support organizations in Northumberland County that support youth and/or seniors. We don’t have specific project(s) in mind. We will review requests for funding for these groups as we receive these,” explains Selby.
Ticket details and more information about the Feb. 7 event are available via rotary’s website.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt, with files from Joseph Goden)
