The Optimist Club of Foley is prepping for their 36th-Annual Taste of South Baldwin event, Sept. 15, at the Foley Civic Center. The fundraising event has aided the Foley Optimist Club in awarding over $133,000 in scholarships to local high school seniors.

The Taste of South Baldwin event highlights over 20 local food and beverage vendors. Guests to the event stroll through, sampling food from each vendor while enjoying live music, a silent auction and door prizes.

The event serves as the primary fundraising event for the Optimist Club of Foley, raising between $13,000 to $14,000 each year. The funds are used to support scholarships, an annual Christmas party for local children, oratorical and essay contests, academic and athletic activities, Teachers of the Year awards, Scouts and more.

"The first Taste of South Baldwin was a fundraiser to fund all the various projects that the Optimist Club wanted to do for the children and community," said event coordinator Marge Moore. "The event went over so well it has continued. It is a really good time."

This year's food and beverage vendors include:

A La Katy's
Acme Oyster House
Alabama Coastal Catering - Cobalt, Buzz Cats, Cosmos, GT's, Luna's
Budweiser—Busch
Foosackly's
Oak Hollow Farm
O'Charley's
Original Oyster House
OWA Parks and Resorts (Italian Restaurant)
Peng Garden
Wolf Bay Lodge
Shrimp Basket
Coca Cola

Vendor spaces and sponsorships are still available. Information and applications can be found on the club's website foleyoptimistclub.com.

The 36th-Annual Taste of South Baldwin kicks off at 6 p.m., Sept. 15, at the Foley Civic Center. Tickets are $25 per person and can be purchased from any Optimist Club member, Foley City Hall from Brenda Shambo or by contacting Marge Moore at (251) 975-7367.