Celebrating Mental Health Awareness Month, Crossroads Community invites everyone to its First Annual Flying Pig Roast at Conquest Beach outside of Centreville on Saturday, May 14, from 4 to 7 p.m. Support for the event comes from Centreville National Bank, serving as “Top Hog” sponsor.
Proceeds benefit Crossroads Community’s program of mental health recovery resources for Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s and Talbot counties.
Renowned Patsy Cline impersonator Shelley Abbott will provide the evening’s entertainment. Her video-enhanced performances have had audiences throughout the East Coast imagining that the famed country singer has been brought back to life for an evening of song.
The picnic will feature all the traditional pig roast trimmings, including beer and wine, for a ticket price of $60 per person or $100 per couple. Meat is being provided by Haass’ Family Butcher Shop in Dover, Delaware, and the pavilion use by the Queen Anne’s County Department of Parks and Recreation.
Guests will be able to bid on donated items during a special live auction conducted by Abbott in character as Patsy Cline. A variety of auction items will be available for bid, including a complete “Party in a Basket,” featuring a live band, crabs and trimmings delivered to the highest bidder’s door; a week’s stay in an Orlando condo; photography on canvas by Linda Walls and more.
Former Congressman Wayne Gilchrest is honorary chairman of this inaugural event, helping to raise awareness of the variety of services Crossroads Community provides to individuals and families with mental health challenges.
“There is no solution to undiagnosed and untreated mental illness,” said Gilchrest, encouraging the community to give generously in support of the organization. “Crossroads offers a workable solution that can lead to a manageable, independent and productive life.”
The event’s theme of “Defying the Odds,” symbolized by the flying pig, promotes the organization’s efforts to foster hope and confidence in recovery from mental illness through support, education and empowerment. Crossroads partners with its clients to give them hope in defying the odds they face, helping individuals regain positive self-image by encouraging meaningful activity and employment. The organization’s advocacy challenges misconceptions in the community and works to reduce the stigma that can attach to the diagnosis.
Tickets are available in advance at Curves, Edwards Pharmacy and Sugar Magnolia in Centreville, and at Play It Again Sam and Scotties Shoe Store in Chestertown. They also may be purchased online through Ticketleap.com or at the event. Conquest Beach is located in Queen Anne’s County, 7.5 miles outside of Centreville on the scenic Chester River.
For tickets and information, to make a donation or to volunteer, contact Crossroads Community at 410-758-3050 or visit its website, www.ccinconline.com.
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