Valentine’s Day is upon us, which we are quite sure you have noticed by now since the stores have been showcasing chocolates, flowers, cards, and stuffed animals holding hearts for the past six weeks. The holiday is a take-it-or-leave-it event for many, but here at ShoreBread, we love a chance to celebrate love by giving back to those in need. It’s one of our favorite aspects about living on the Eastern Shore – watching the community rally around friends, family, and even just acquaintances that need support. This Friday, February 13th, the local community will band together at The Pour House in downtown Ocean City to help raise funding for local, Mike Armstrong, who is currently battling cancer. The event, aptly titled LOVEFEST, will feature five bands, dancing, a silent auction, and donations at the door.
Event organizer Deborah Rolig explained that there would be a $10 suggested donation at the front door. Of course, those wishing to be extra generous are encouraged to do so she said, adding, “if people can donate, and they want to donate more, than of course that would be great!” Rolig, a local artist, is close friends with Armstrong, whom many of you may know from seeing him perform as a local musician. Incidentally, he will be performing Friday night as well, with The Mood Swingers. “We want to help him to be able to cover the bills and just to make things easier overall,” she said. Armstrong is currently battling renal cell cancer.
The event starts at 6pm on Friday evening, and runs until “whenever.” Five bands/live acts are included in the line-up: Tranz Fusion, Wes Davis, Smooth and Remy, Old School, and The Mood Swingers with Mike Armstrong. T-shirts are available, with pre-orders for t-shirts going quickly. There will also be a 50/50 drawing for people to take part in, as well as a silent auction. The silent auction includes a wide array of works from local artists, along with goods, services, and prizes donated from locals and local businesses.
As a close friend of Mike and his wife Diane, Rolig aims to provide the same love, support, and community generosity that she received when her husband, Bill, was battling cancer several years ago. “I want them to really see and feel the support from everyone, because everyone loves them so much. That alone will give them a lift,” she said.
We can’t think of a better way to kick-start your weekend, or to celebrate love, then by heading to The Pour House Friday evening to support our local community member and friend. Good music, good times, and good friends…what more could you ask for?!
