All Aboard the HMS Hope: A Roaring Good Time at the 1920s Murder Mystery Fundraiser!

By Autumn Gavlock
LOCK HAVEN – Boxes of Hope, a local nonprofit dedicated to supporting breast cancer patients, recently hosted an delightful 1920s-themed fundraiser that combined elegance with intrigue. The “Murder on the High Seas” event took place on September 2 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., aboard the imaginatively decked-out HMS Hope, anchored at 14th 18 E. Main Street second floor, Lock Haven.

Guests arrived in glamorous 1920s attire to enjoy an afternoon of high tea and interactive mystery. The setting included intricate gold sequins and fringe, capturing the grandeur of the Roaring Twenties. As participants sipped tea and nibbled on period-inspired treats, they were drawn into a captivating murder mystery involving the ship’s cherished singer, Serena Dione, who was found dead under mysterious circumstances.

Interactive elements of the event featured a colorful cast of characters that added depth to the mystery. While aboard the HMS Hope guests encountered Frida Floats, the tarot card reader and spiritualist, who offered cryptic insights into the unfolding drama. Patsea Diver, a feisty jeweler, brought a touch of sparkle to the proceedings, while Sia Gull, the social butterfly and HMS Hope Club Rep, engaged guests with her bubbly charm. Inez Cent, an aspiring singer and dancer, with much motive to kill added to the intrigue. Bill Lowdeck, the ship’s less-than-stellar chef, provided inept culinary commentary, and Suz Spicious, the notorious society gossip columnist, stirred the pot with her sharp tongue. Duncan Drowns, the ornery orchestra conductor, added a touch of discord, while Captain Sian Sighted, the seemingly blind ship captain, offered a puzzling perspective. Ahab Whalesworth, the fisherman-turned-whale enthusiast, hovered on the edge of obsession, and David Lockerton-Jones, the ship designer with a pirate’s edge, hinted at deeper secrets. Mary Celeste, a confused lost soul, and Ace Berg, the charming playboy millionaire and socialite, rounded out the ensemble. As guests navigated through a series of strategically arranged clues in three sets of packets, they faced the challenge of refining their suspicions with each new piece of evidence, gradually eliminating suspects and inching closer to uncovering the truth.

With 36 passengers on board, attendees assumed the role of amateur sleuths, piecing together clues to uncover the murderer. The suspenseful investigation concluded with 13 guests correctly identifying Suz Spicious, the society gossip columnist, as the culprit behind the crime.

The afternoon featured a delectable 1920s-inspired menu, including appetizers such as deviled eggs and cheddar bacon ranch-stuffed celery boats, tea sandwiches of cucumber, pimento cheese, and egg salad, and desserts like red velvet mini cupcakes and upside-down pineapple cakes.

The event also featured a photo booth opportunity for guests to capture a photo-keepsake from their high-seas adventure, and a silent auction with baskets and gift certificates generously donated by local businesses. Key sponsors included Beans Cakery, Big Mike’s Racing Photography, Bill’s Happy Camper RV Sales & Service, and many others, whose support was instrumental in the event’s success.

Founded by breast cancer survivor Traci Fotorny, Boxes of Hope uses funds from such events to provide aid and comfort to individuals battling breast cancer. The nonprofit encourages community involvement through sponsorship opportunities, offering benefits like social media shoutouts, website listings, and program acknowledgments.

Looking ahead, Boxes of Hope will host Pink Warrior Day on October 12, 2024, at 1:00 PM. This free event is designed to pamper breast cancer warriors with professional makeup, hairstyling, and nail services. Participants will also have the chance to enjoy a mini photo session with a professional photographer, with options to dress in pink boxing gear or elegant gowns. Pre-registration is required, and slots can be reserved at www.boh4bc.org/events.

For more information on how to support or get involved with Boxes of Hope, visit their Facebook page or contact the organization directly.