Serving up Love and Dinner - Ville Marie Online

News

Tuesday August 16,

Written by Alan Hustak for VMO
Tuesday December 15th,

There are no second class citizens in Montreal, Mayor Denis Coderre told the more than 500 people who showed up for the annual charity luncheon at the Bonsecours Market on Sunday organized by Father John Walsh. Before the meal was served, by more than 80 volunteers, the mayor stood in a reception line where he cheerfully posed for selfies and greeted everyone who showed up. Coderre told the crowd that he is proud of the fact that people in Montreal work together to support each other. “We are there for the Syrian refugees who have just arrived, we are there for the kids, we are here for you and for everyone. Everyone in Montreal works together. I love you all, that’s all I have to say.” Then he put on an apron and went to the kitchen where he pitched in to help pour gravy on 500 plates filled with turkey and all the trimmings.

The tradition began 14 years ago when Father Walsh was still a radio talk show host. For years the event has been supported by Sylvio Sicoli and his business partner Gino Melatti who own Bonaparte, the upscale hotel and restaurant on St. Francois Xavier in Old Montreal. Both are parishioners at St. Jean Brebeuf in LaSalle and got involved in fundraising when Father Walsh was the parish priest at the church. The entertainment was provided by Adam Sicoli with Midnight Express, and TSN 690 Sports Radio celebrity Tony Marinaro was also on hand. Tickets to the holiday luncheon are distributed by the Old Brewery Mission, Sun Youth, the Action Centre and other community organizations.

One woman, who received her ticket from the St. Antoine Centre, says she’s been coming to the dinner for the last ten years. “I don’t get out all that much anymore; I can’t afford a meal like this. I like that they have children help serve it. It is nice to have young people around for an afternoon. I like the kids. And the food is good.“

The 65 turkeys that were served were prepared by volunteers from PACC (Pearson Adult and Career Centre), under the guidance of Nancy Gagnon at the culinary school. The event depends on a number of sponsors including IGA Beck, Manzo Pizzeria, P.A. Supermarkets, Tim Horton’s Kirkland, Stokes, Ardent Mills, Miss Browns, Delsan AIM Environmental Services, Mardi Gras Rental, Westmount Moving, and Generations Foundation.

Last Night at the Gayete

By Deborah Rankin

The Centaur Theatre's - season is drawing to a close with its final production of Last Night at the Gayety, a musical comedy by Bowser & Blue which runs until May 22nd.