Hospice of the Chesapeake celebrated its inaugural Sip & Savor: A Taste of Prince George’s on Nov. 9, a unique culinary event held at the elegant Newton White Mansion in Mitchellville, Maryland. The event provided guests with not only a festive and flavorful afternoon but also an opportunity to support compassionate care for neighbors in need. The organization raised nearly $16,000 to support vital medical care, emotional and spiritual support, grief counseling and specialized programs for veterans and children in Prince George’s County.
The afternoon offered guests a curated selection of savory and sweet dishes from local chefs and caterers including Bennett Caterers, ButterQueen Bakery and Plan it to the T – Planning & Catering. Complemented by refreshing beverages, music and engaging experiences, the event highlighted Hospice of the Chesapeake’s mission to provide compassionate care throughout the community.
Becky Miller, President and CEO of Hospice of the Chesapeake, spoke movingly about the significance of the event. “We gather not only to celebrate the flavors and culture of our county, but to honor the heart of our community — the people who care for one another, especially our aging neighbors and their families,” Miller said.
Miller told the guests that in 2024, Hospice of the Chesapeake served 742 patients in Prince George’s County, providing nearly 45,000 days of care. “That’s 45,000 moments of comfort, dignity, and connection,” she said. “Our work is made possible by the trust and partnership of local hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, assisted living centers, community organizations and especially our faith-based communities.”
Joyce Phillip, a member of the Hospice of the Chesapeake Board of Directors and longtime friend of the nonprofit, shared personal stories of how hospice care supported two families through challenging times.
“Today is a time to share our stories, reflect, rejoice and recommit to caring for our community,” Phillip said. “Let today be more than a gathering. Let it be a beginning—a commitment to care, to educate and to walk with our neighbors through every season of life.”
The afternoon concluded with a heartfelt musical performance by Alexander Strachan, a violinist and Maryland-National Capital Park Police officer. Strachan has performed for many hospice patients and is known for his community performances, including performing the national anthem at Chesapeake Baysox games.
The organization would like to thank its gracious sponsors, including Savory Sponsors K & I Healthcare Services, LLC; NPOC Wellness and Hydration; and Dr. Errol and Joyce Phillip; Artisan Sponsor Mary Frances and Chris Isakov; and Flavor Sponsors Visiting Angels Hyattsville; Tim McDonough and Cary Melnyk; and 100 Black Men of Prince George’s County.
To see pictures from the event, visit https://www.hospicechesapeake.org/sip-savor/#gallery.
Click here to see more videos on our Vimeo page.
High-resolution photos available upon request. All photos taken Nov. 9 at the Newton White Mansion, Mitchellville, Maryland, by Elyzabeth Marcussen, Hospice of the Chesapeake.
Cherrie Britton stands to be recognized after Joyce Phillip shared how Hospice of the Chesapeake cared for her husband. “Hospice was the best thing that I did for John over his eight years of my caring for him,” she told Phillip.
Chance Kitt interviews Sarah Wright, who was excited to find Alexander Strachan at the event. Strachan played his violin once a week for her son while he was in the care of Hospice of the Chesapeake.