Hundreds of friends, family, and colleagues filled the room during a benefit that took place July 13 at Lisa’s Small Plates in Stevensville. The event was held in support of popular local restaurant owner Doug Ward of It’s The Pits, another area eatery.

Ward was diagnosed with prostate cancer, but complications with his insurance coverage was making arrangements for an operation difficult. So to help out, over $42,000 was raised by auction. Various items, such as dinners, trips to the Caribbean or special baskets of gourmet goodies were offered, plus other choice items.

Among the area businesses to step up and help their friend were Paul Reed Smith, the nationally known guitar maker, Hunters Oak and Glen Dale Golf courses, the Great American Car Wash, the Red Eye Dock Bar, the Ram’s Head Tavern, the Yin Yankee Café, Rustico’s, L&L Liquors, Big Bat’s Café, the Blue Water Tavern, Tuna the Tide Charter Service, Café Mezzanote, Model Home Interiors, R’s Americantina, Periwinkles, Radiance by Pita, G&G Distributors, Island Flowers, Shore Tackle, and Annie’s.

Among the private citizens who bought and donated gifts to the auction were Jeff Shields, Mark Galasso, Howard Pidden, Clark Porter, D. Horne, D. Pick, Jimmy Myri, Linda Haney, Ben Hopkins, Lisa Farbee, Jay Xander, Dan Bungori, Phil Lambert, Lisa Wechteeheua, Donna Wood, Brian and Keri Glorioso (also the hosts), Susie and Greg, David George, and Howard Brown.

Anyone interested in helping Doug further can call 410-604-2550.