The Rappahannock Community College Educational Foundation recently announced the 15th annual Preakness Party to celebrate the running of the Preakness Stakes, from 3:30-7 p.m. May 18, at Grove Mount, 755 Grove Mount Road, Warsaw.
The circa 1787 Georgian-style timber frame house built by Robert and Priscilla (Carter of Nomini Hall) Mitchell. The historic structure remains largely unchanged since its construction and is a Virginia Historic Landmark.
The Preakness is named for the horse who won the first stakes run in Pimlico in 1873, reported RCC director of communications Jeff Macharyas.
The Preakness Party will feature cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, live and silent auctions and a most audacious hat contest. The hat contest brings out the competitive spirit in many of the guests who don enormous, colorful hats, said Macharyas.
The event raises money for the foundation, which financially supports students and innovative programs that are not fully funded by state allocations. The all-inclusive tickets are $100 per guest. For tickets, contact the foundation, 333-6707 or www.rappahannock.edu/foundation.
The Preakness Party has raised nearly $800,000 over the years, he said. These funds support the RCC scholarship program, that has provided more than $400,000 in awards to students, professional development grants for faculty and staff to attend conferences or take classes that may not be in their department budgets, as well as other program needs not funded through state allocations.
Guests can enjoy cuisine from Eckhard’s, Indian Creek Yacht & Country Club, Java Jacks, Reedville Market Bar & Grill, RCC Culinary Arts, The Daily, Relish Restaurant & Wine Bar and Two Fish Bistro. Participating vineyards include Good Luck Cellars, Ingleside Vineyards and General’s Ridge Winery. In addition, domestic beer, a full bar and non-alcoholic beverages will be available.
“We appreciate the support from area businesses that step up to sponsor the event. The Preakness is a fun event for a very worthy cause,” said president Dr. Elizabeth Crowther.
The celebration culminates with the Preakness Stakes shown live on large screens in the event tent.
