The Rotary Club’s Kirkland Lake Grapes & Hops Festival has once again proven the incredible generosity and heart of this community, raising over $150,000 to support Blanche River Health Foundation (BRHF). Held on April 26th at Heritage North, this sold-out event was more than just an elegant evening—the overwhelming community spirit turned the night into something truly unforgettable.

“This isn’t just a dollar amount. It’s a lasting investment in local healthcare. It’s for our families, our neighbours, and our region,” said René Boudreault, BRHF Board Vice Chair. “We are humbled by the support and so proud of what our community has accomplished together.”

With a minimum annual need of $500,000 to sustain our Blanche River Health (BRH) hospitals in Kirkland Lake and Englehart, the proceeds from this event will have a tangible impact. Funds raised will go directly toward purchasing essential medical equipment, enhancing vital services, and ensuring better access to quality care for our community—supporting critical healthcare closer to home. 

“This event is more than a fundraiser; it’s a testament to the dedication and generosity of our community,” said Mike Marinigh, BRHF Board Treasurer and The Rotary Club of Kirkland Lake President. “The funds raised will directly enhance healthcare services in our region, ensuring better care for everyone.”

Title sponsor Agnico Eagle led the way, with platinum sponsors St. Cyr & Associates and Timber Mart also stepping up to ensure the event’s success. Other contributors included gold sponsors Fidelity Investments and Alamos Gold, along with a host of silver and bronze sponsors, such as Goldbelt, Heath & Sherwood (1964) Ltd, Lakeshore Motors, and Apitipi Resources. For a full list of the sponsors, visit the Kirkland Lake Grapes & Hops Facebook Page: facebook.com/KLGrapesHops.

“Our physicians and staff rely on community support for critical tools and equipment,” said Dr. Brian McPherson, Chief of Staff at BRH. “Funds raised from events like this directly enhance patient care, providing life-saving equipment and improved facilities. The impact is felt across the region.”

Attendees indulged in a five-tapas menu created by Chef Anthony Dal Pai, complemented by wine pairings from sommelier Lucie Trépanier and craft beers from Full Beard Owner & Brewer Johnathan St. Pierre. The evening began with live music during cocktails by Paige Proulx and Daryl Rodgers, transitioned into a high-energy auction hosted by John Robertson after dinner, and wrapped up with lively performances by Simon and Claude that kept the crowd dancing late into the night. For more photos of the event, visit the BRHF Facebook Page: facebook.com/BlancheRiverHealthFoundation.

“The Rotary Club of Kirkland Lake, along with over 30 dedicated volunteers, made this event a night to remember,” said Cassandra James, BRHF Ex

ecutive Director. “We extend our deepest gratitude to the Rotary Club, every sponsor, donor, and attendee. Together, we’re ensuring a stronger healthcare system for Kirkland Lake, Englehart, and beyond.”

About Kirkland Lake Grapes & Hops Festival

The Grapes & Hops Festival, organized by the Rotary Club of Kirkland Lake, is an annual celebration featuring fine wine, craft beer, gourmet cuisine, and live entertainment. Proceeds benefit the Blanche River Health Foundation, supporting healthcare initiatives for the Englehart and Kirkland Lake hospitals.

For more information, visit the official Facebook Page: facebook.com/KLGrapesHops.

About Blanche River Health Foundation

The Blanche River Health Foundation raises funds for equipment and capital projects at the Blanche River Health hospitals in Englehart and Kirkland Lake. With limited government funding, the hospitals rely on people’s generosity to modernize facilities, improve patient care, and advance its mission to make healthcare work for you. Governed by a volunteer board of directors, the Foundation plays a vital role in ensuring essential improvements are made possible.

To continue supporting BRH, please consider donating to the BRH Foundation via:

• Cheque: Blanche River Health Foundation, 145 Government Road East, Kirkland Lake, Ontario P2N 3P4
• Online: Visit brhfoundation.ca
• Your Estate Planner: Include the Foundation in your will through planned giving: legacy.brhfoundation.ca
• Lottery Tickets: Purchase Split the Pot tickets at splitthepot.ca
• Grateful Hearts Program: Honour a caregiver or staff member who made a difference by donating through grateful.brhfoundation.ca

Visit brhfoundation.ca to learn more or to donate.

Pictured: 

Photo 1:
The Rotary Club of Kirkland Lake, together with Grapes & Hops sponsors, proudly presents a cheque for over $150,000 to Blanche River Health Foundation and Blanche River Health, raised during the Kirkland Lake Grapes & Hops Festival.

Left to right, back row: Mitch Moreau (BRHF), Sandy Austin (BRHF), Cassandra James (BRHF), Tracy Ryan (Rotary), Tess McEachern (Apitipi Anicinapek Nation).

Middle row: Jakob Rosko-Fong (Heath & Sherwood), Jennifer Boudreault (BRH), Lucas Robson (Heath & Sherwood), Madhavi Purohit (Rotary), Sam Gerber (Earlton Timber Mart), Veysey Tiffany (Earlton Timber Mart), Jessica Lafreniere (Rotary), Mike Guimond (Rotary), Ryan Duncan (St Cyr & Associates), Raisa Chowdhury (St Cyr & Associates), Chester Jobson (BRH Board), Leanne Nielson (Temiskaming Hearing Clinic), John Sullivan (BRHF), France Benoit (BRH), Dr. McPherson (BRH).

Front row: Mary Ann Mavrinac (BRHF), Kasey Rosko (Heath & Sherwood), Nick McGonigal (Heath & Sherwood), Mike Marinigh (BRHF & Rotary), Geoff Lawrence (Agnico Eagle Mines Ltd), Samantha Saudino (BRH), Ryan Clarke (Alamos Gold Inc.), Dixit Patel (Rotary), Derek Newton (Chad Plumbing), Sherry L’Heureux (BRH).

Photo 2 & 3:

Blanche River Health Foundation and Blanche River Health representatives pose for a photo at the Kirkland Lake Grapes & Hops Festival.

Photo 2, left to right: Mitch Moreau (BRHF), René Boudreault (BRHF), Cassandra James (BRHF), Brian Bronson (BRHF), Sandy Austin (BRHF & BRH Board), John Sullivan (BRHF), Barbara Effenberger (BRH), Chester Jobson (BRH Board), Mary Ann Mavrinac (BRHF), Mike Marinigh (BRHF & Rotary). Photo by K&A Studio Productions.

Photo 3, left to right: Mary Ann Mavrinac (BRHF), Mitch Moreau (BRHF), Kim Moreau, Suzanne Bronson, Brian Bronson (BRHF), Tammy Mazzetti, Mike Mazzetti (BRH Board), Peter van Schie.