The Lee Memorial Foundation will bring together wine, beer, food and music Aug. 4 for the inaugural Beer and Wine Tasting Event at Blackmond Farm on Indian Lake in Dowagiac.

The foundation began planning the fundraiser last fall, looking to invite community members to taste wine, beer and hors d’oeuvres from local wineries, breweries and eateries.

Don Blackmond, a committee member, volunteered his property for the event.

“Don graciously told us we could use his land for the evening, and it seemed to work out perfectly with what we wanted to do,” foundation member Tom Carlson said.

Guests will get the chance to enjoy fine wines from Round Barn Winery, Tabor Hill Winery and Restaurant, Lemon Creek Winery, Fenn Valley and Contessa Wine Cellars. New Holland Brewing, Round Barn Brewery and Saugatuck Brewing Co. will also provide samplings of beer. Beth Cripe, interim director of the foundation, said Pepsi donated soda to satisfy attendees looking to enjoy the atmosphere sans spirits.

Beyond the food and drink, Carlson said guests would also be treated to live music and entertainment by the duo of Jeff and Sean.

“They were happy to donate their time for the event,” Carlson said. “They play everybody’s music.”

Blackmond said that the event will provide a fun atmosphere for guests, but also help a cause close to the hospital.

The fundraiser aims to generate funds for the purchase of a ventilator, Hoyer lift, Neptune machines for surgeries and other various hospital equipment.

“The community has another chance to help a good cause,” Blackmond said.

“It’s helping the healers at Borgess heal.”

When asked why he offered his property for the soiree, Blackmond said not only did he have the room, but the passion for the cause.

“It was because of my passion for the hospital and the dedication to the community,” Blackmond said.

Carlson explained the hope is to grow the event for next year.

“It will be an annual thing; something we hope people will look forward to each summer and put on their calendars,” Carlson said. “We want to have that waiting list for tickets.”

A limited number of tickets are available for purchase.

“We’re hoping with this first event to let the word spread and become a growing success for next year,” Cripe said.

Carlson and Cripe also said they would like to see the community become involved.

“We’re hoping to gain some sponsors for the event, and we would certainly recognize them here on Aug. 4,” Carlson said.

To become a sponsor or purchase tickets, contact Cripe at (269) 783-3026 or Carlson at (269) 782-7788.