to Red Cross BC Fire Relief Fund
SUMMERLAND, BRITISH COLUMBIA (August 26, 2003) ― Donald Triggs, co-founder of Jackson-Triggs Okanagan Estate and Harry McWatters, founder of Sumac Ridge Estate Winery announced today that each winery will be donating $10,000 for a total of $20,000 to the Red Cross BC Fire Relief Fund to support those who have been affected by the Okanagan Valley’s recent forest fires. Triggs and McWatters are encouraging their employees to contribute additional funds that will be dollar-matched by the two wineries and are hopeful that other wineries will create similar donation programs.
Donald Triggs commented that, “We are saddened by the losses that many Okanagan residents have suffered and hope this contribution and others that follow will help get life back to normal.”
McWatters noted that strong community spirit was evident by the many local businesses that are offering free services or setting up donation boxes. “I feel very fortunate to live and work in the Okanagan Valley and, like thousands of others, have been touched by the overwhelming support for one another that has been demonstrated,” explains McWatters.
“Our hearts and wishes go out to all those affected, in particular our friends, the Gebert family, who sustained fire damage at their St Hubertus Estate Winery.”
Triggs and McWatters urge tourists to continue to visit and enjoy the Okanagan Valley this fall and winter and take part in activities the valley has to offer such as golfing, wine touring, skiing and biking. Triggs stated, “It is one of the most beautiful places in the world and the people who live here have once again proven to be the best you could hope to meet anywhere.”
Founded in the mid-90s, by proprietors, Allan Jackson and Donald Triggs, Jackson-Triggs Vintners produces wines at its new state-of-the-art Okanagan Estate in Oliver, British Columbia. Jackson-Triggs wines have won numerous awards and accolades from local and international wine competitions and are noted for exceptional Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Riesling Icewine.
Sumac Ridge Estate Winery located in Summerland, British Columbia was founded in 1980 by Harry McWatters. The winery is British Columbia’s premiere estate winery, producing signature table wines such as Gewurztraminer, Pinot Blanc and Meritage, and the famous Stellar’s Jay Brut. Sumac Ridge operates a wine shop and offers tours of the winery daily in addition to being the home of the famed Cellar Door Bistro.