Mobile Meals conducts a 'land cruise' with the Swingin' Medallions

At a time when food costs are rising like a tidal wave, Mobile Meals of Spartanburg is readying for a cruise.

Its eighth annual Land Cruise starts at 7 tonight at Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium. Even though the building won't actually transport attendees to an exotic location, the interior will be decorated to resemble a cruise ship.

“The auditorium is divided into three sections: ballroom, dining room and game room,” said Susan Spires, Mobile Meals' director of development. “We've got portholes in the windows, we have drapery that resembles what you'd see in a ship dining room, and we have a game room. Over 100 volunteers — from caterers to decorators — help make this event possible.”

Nan Cleveland, event chair, said guests leave the event feeling as if they have actually been to a tropical paradise for a few hours.

This year's theme destination is Grand Cayman Islands.

The event features music from Greenwood-based The Swingin' Medallions, whose music is most often associated with beach music R&B or shagging music. The band's stage show has earned them the nickname “The Party Band of the South,” according to its website.

There is also a live and silent auction, with about 90 items being auctioned off, Spires said. “They range from a small price to a lot of money.”

The Land Cruise also includes buffets.

“We're hoping that people come out just for the fun and camaraderie,” she said. “Everyone can have a good time with the music and the dancing and the food and of course the auction.”

The funds raised at the event will help Mobile Meals stay afloat and continue to deliver hot meals to people who are homebound, frail, alone and unable to care for themselves.

“Our goal is to raise $200,000, and that will provide food for a lot of people,” Spires said. “Last year, the event raised $150,000. Year after year, the support this event brings is tremendous for us.”

Tickets are $60 per person or $1,000 for a reserved table of 10.

For more information, call Mobile Meals at 573-7684.