PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. — The can-do spirit of Calvert County’s 4-H youth helped make “Boots & Bling: A Culinary Experience” a fundraising success for Hospice of the Chesapeake.
Held May 8 at the Rod ‘N’ Reel Resort in Chesapeake Beach, the event raised more than $180,000 to support hospice care, grief support and expanded local programs for patients and families across Calvert County.
Approximately 250 guests attended the event, which featured Chesapeake Bay and international cuisine. Guests also heard from Hospice of the Chesapeake President and CEO Becky Miller and Board Vice Chair Rich Wilder about the organization’s mission and impact in Calvert County.
One of the evening’s featured moments focused on the story of the Hospice Hog, shared by T.J. Ireland. In 2019, Ireland and his brother, Colby Ireland, donated proceeds from the sale of one of their 4-H market hogs to honor their grandmother and support Hospice of the Chesapeake. Their first hog, Harry, raised $7,000 at the Calvert County Fair.
After the Ireland brothers aged out of 4-H, the Said family continued the tradition. Together, the families have raised more than $150,000 through the sale of home-raised hogs.
Guests also met Ayden and Lucas Said, who, along with their sister Lena, are raising this year’s Hospice Hog, Hoss. Ireland said the Said family plans to continue the tradition until Lena turns 19.
Hospice of the Chesapeake thanked sponsors including Diamond Spurs sponsors John & Cathy Belcher, Floor Systems and In Memory of Michael King; Gold Lasso sponsors Constellation Energy, Maertens Fine Jewelry, Peggy McKelly, MedArt Gallery and Rod ‘N’ Reel Resort; and Silver Saddle sponsors ADU Your Appliance Source, Kelly Generator & Equipment, Inc., Greg Kernan, Lee Funeral Homes and Scheibel Construction.
The nonprofit also recognized underwriters including Dunkirk Dental Associates, Jan Kleponis, O’Brien Realty, ERA Powered, and RCM&D, A Unison Risk Advisors Company, as well as event partners Crow Entertainment, Floral Expressions, Rod ‘N’ Reel Resort, Select Event Rentals and Southern Winds Band.
More photos from the event are available at https://www.hospicechesapeake.org/culinary-event/#gallery.
About Hospice of the Chesapeake
Hospice of the Chesapeake supports individuals and families facing progressive, serious illness by developing care plans focused on minimizing symptoms and improving quality of life. The nonprofit serves Anne Arundel, Calvert, Charles and Prince George’s counties.
More information is available at www.hospicechesapeake.org.