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Local Derby Day party raising money for the Hunger Task Force

While some were betting, others were raising money
Posted at 11:05 AM, May 07, 2017
and last updated 2017-05-07 12:05:31-04

Always Dreaming was able to pull out the victory for the 143rd Kentucky Derby, but in Milwaukee, they were dreaming of doing good for the Hunger Task Force

"This is our 10th annual Kentucky Derby party to benefit the Hunger Task Force," said John Buchell of Maxie's.

The Derby Day party at Maxie's continues to grow each and every year. If you looked around, you'd think you were at Churchill Downs.

"We're in the middle of Wisconsin," said Dan Sidner, co-owner of Maxie's. "To have all these people get dressed up and come out for a Derby Day party is really kind of a unique thing."

"This is annual," said Jeff Leypoldt of Fox Point. "This is a tradition and our group represents a circle of friends that mark this in our calendar and we make sure we're here."

The mint juleps were flowing and the over-the-top hats were plentiful, but even as the ponies were racing, a greater call was why they were all there.

"This is all going to be used to support emergency food," said Jonathan Hansen, director of development with the Hunger Task Force. "It will provide healthy and nutritious food to a network of 74 pantries and meal programs right here in Milwaukee and help feed 50,000 Milwaukeeans every month."

"It's such a great way to do it," said Laura Barry. "It's a painless way to do it because you're having fun and supporting an awesome cause."

Oddly enough, Maxie's had multiple reasons to celebrate. Not only was it Derby Day and not only were they helping a great cause, but they were celebrating a birthday. Maxie's opened 10 years ago to the day but instead of getting gifts on their birthday, they're giving them.

"We're giving the gift," Sidner said. "But this is a gift for us. We get to be a part of a fun day. Friends come out and do a little good along the way."

Last year's event raised more than $10,000 for the Hunger Task Force and this year, they believe they will exceed that.

 

 

 

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