Foundation Events Range From Fun to Thought Provoking

The American Psychiatric Foundation is hosting four events at APA's 2007 annual meeting that will provide opportunities for networking, recreation, and supporting the foundation's programs.

The foundation will kick off the meeting with its 2007 annual benefit, “Celebrate San Diego!,” which will be held at the San Diego Wine and Culinary Center on Saturday, May 19, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. The event will feature a California-wine tasting, regional cuisine, live music, a silent auction, and presentation of the awards for advancing minority mental health.

Event proceeds support the foundation's programs to advance public understanding that mental illnesses are real and treatable. Tickets are $100 per person if purchased by April 1 and $125 per person thereafter. Tickets can be ordered by phone at (703) 907-8512 or online at<www.psychfoundation.org>. The benefit is supported by AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Forest Pharmaceuticals, Janssen Pharmaceutica Products, Solvay Pharmaceuticals, Abbott Laboratories, Cyberonics, Eli Lilly, Otsuka America Pharmaceutical, and Professional Risk Management Services.

On Monday, May 21, the annual tournament of the Golfers of APA will be held at the top-rated Maderas Golf Club. The tournament will begin at 8 a.m. with a shotgun start. The registration fee is $210, which includes transportation to the course, greens fees, carts, lunch, and prizes. Golf-club rental is available for $70. Event proceeds will benefit the foundation. More information about the course is posted at<www.maderasgolf.com>. APA members interested in entering the tournament should contact Stan Jennings by e-mail at [email protected] or phone at (804) 320-7881.

The foundation's sixth annual “Conversations” event will be held on Tuesday, May 22, at the San Diego Marriott Hotel and Marina. This year's guest is Brooke Shields, an actress and former model who will share her personal story of postpartum depression and recovery and the ensuing publicity after actor Tom Cruise discussed Shields' situation in the media (see page 6).“ Conversations” is an interactive discussion series that offers psychiatrists an opportunity to hear unique perspectives on mental illness. The event is supported through an unrestricted educational grant from AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals.

Baseball fans can enjoy some fun while supporting the philanthropic work of the foundation on Tuesday, May 22; Wednesday, May 23; or Thursday, May 24. The San Diego Padres will play the Chicago Cubs in a three-game series at Petco Park. For every ticket sold, $5 will be contributed to the foundation. Tickets can be ordered online at<www.padres.com/groups>. The username is APA, and the password is PADRES. Additional information is available at<www.psychfoundation.org>.

The American Psychiatric Foundation is the philanthropic and educational arm of APA. The foundation's mission is to advance public understanding that mental illnesses are real and can be effectively treated. ▪