Over 350 friends of Rappahannock Community College gathered May 20 on the grounds of historic Millmont in Middlesex County for the 13th Annual Preakness Party.
The event raised funds for the RCC Educational Foundation’s mission to provide an affordable and high-quality RCC education for residents of the Middle Peninsula, Northern Neck and surrounding areas. The auction raised a record $90,000 to support RCC student scholarships and college programs, reported Sarah Pope dean of college achievement and executive director of the RCC Educational Foundation Inc.
Guests bid on silent and active auction items, enjoyed food and drink from local wineries and restaurants and watched a live feed of the Preakness Stakes on large television screens, said Pope. The best hat contest brought out the competitive spirit in many of the guests who donned enormous, colorful hats.
“The RCC Educational Foundation is so grateful to the event guests who support our mission,” she said. “We are amazed at their generosity as this year’s Preakness was the highest netting in the 13-year event history.
“The Preakness fundraiser is successful because of the dedicated volunteers on our steering committee, including co-chairs Sue Farmar and Joni Lawler, our corporate sponsors and the beautiful setting of the event venue provided this year by Marilyn and David South.”
Nine restaurants donated their time and food for the event, including Eckhard’s Restaurant, Indian Creek Yacht & Country Club, Java Jack’s Coffee House and Restaurant, Lancaster Tavern, The Steamboat Restaurant at the Piankatank Golf Club, Stratford Hall, The Tides Inn, Tommy’s and RCC’s own Culinary Program, led by chef Hatley Bright.
The Preakness Party also showcased several wineries, including Good Luck Cellars, General’s Ridge and Ingleside, while Angelo’s restaurant in Montross sponsored the bar area.
