Chow down for a cause

Step dancers from the Hagen School of Irish Dance entertained the crowd to the sound of Irish folk tunes, reels and jigs.

John Maher/Herald

St. Patrick’s Parade Chairwoman Kathleen Schwarting, left, and Grand Marshal Sean O’Rourke applauded the efforts of those present.

John Maher/Herald

K.C. Putterman, left, was wowed by the food at George Martin's table, manned by Jerry Barnett.

John Maher/Herald

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Village vendors, foodies and residents sat down to a hearty meal on Jan. 24 at the 10th annual Taste of Rockville Centre, the St. Patrick’s Parade Committee’s annual food and wine tasting. More than 25 local restaurants and businesses showed off favorite dishes at the St. Agnes Parish Center, while Jerry and the Newcomers jammed away to classic 60s and 70s tunes and step dancers from the Hagen School of Irish Dance reeled away on the dance floor.

Proceeds from the event are put toward the St. Patrick’s Parade, the Parade That Cares and Shares, and then donated to one of more than 52 charities supported by the organization. This year, all money raised will benefit New Ground, Inc., a local group devoted to breaking the cycle of homelessness and poverty for families and veterans; the Angelman Syndrome Foundation, a national charity seeking a cure for a disease that inflicts severe developmental delay, speech difficulties, seizure disorders and more on young children; and the Nassau County Ancient Order of Hibernians Feis and Festival, an Irish charity that holds an annual celebration of Irish culture and history.