The 2nd Annual Royal Oak Friday Nite Hoedown is set for October 14, 2011 from 6 to 9pm. “The purpose of this event is to strengthen our community by bringing our neighbors in the Bay Hundred together while raising funds for a local need” says Pastor Chris Pettit. Last year, Royal Oak Community UMC held the Hoedown as a fundraiser for Ivy Sherwood, a local woman who was diagnosed with a rare bone cancer in 2009.  After a very difficult operation, Ivy is now on the road to recovery and is excited about helping volunteer at this year’s event.  “Last year we were able to make a difference in the life of one family.  This year we hope to make a difference in the lives of many families.  We plan to do this by focusing our effort on youth” shares Pastor Pettit.  Bay Hundred churches are banding together to launch a new youth centered initiative.  “We need to demonstrate to teens how much God loves them.”

The band “New & Used Bluegrass” will be performing on stage and there will be plenty of food to eat, including Jamie’s Pitbeef and Bellevue UM Men’s BBQ Chicken.  A Chili Cookoff is scheduled as well as a Tug O’ War competition.  Entry forms for both can be downloaded from the church website: www.rocumc.org.  Young children will have a blast competing in the Greased Pig contest and other games.  The Friday Nite Hoedown is held on the grounds of Royal Oak Community UMC, 6968 Bellevue Road, Royal Oak, Maryland and admission is $5 for adults and free for children under 12.