In its inaugural year, Oktoberfest Presented by Antero Resources raised more than $30,000 to benefit the Pediatric and Maternal/Child-Compassion, Caring and Comfort Funds at United Hospital Center.

 

Under a large tent at the entrance to the UHC campus, volunteers prepared Oktoberfest baskets Friday, filling them with weisswurst, bratwurst, pickled onions, stone ground mustard, soft pretzels, candied almonds, apples, honey, German beer or cider, cakes, Obatzda, Bavarian potato salad, and glass beer mugs. During the afternoon hours, those who had pre-ordered baskets picked them up as lively Bavarian music played.

 

“The baskets mimic all the ingredients of a Bavarian festival,” said Jennifer Lopez, who spearheaded the fundraiser. “Purchasers will certainly enjoy these gourmet offerings.”

 

The fundraiser was inspired by the past two years of Holly Ball events. Due to the pandemic and prevention measures, the traditional in-person dinner/dance was transformed into a pick-up event. An in-person event is planned for February 2023, but the committee decided to host a pick-up event also; choosing the festive Oktoberfest season for the new fundraiser.

 

“The goal for the community of volunteers has been to separate the pick-up event from the Holly Ball,” said Lopez, wife of Gerardo Lopez, M.D., cardiologist at the WVU Heart & Vascular Institute. “It is the inaugural year for Oktoberfest, which provides the community with another UHC supporting opportunity.”

 

Antero Resources stepped up to become the title sponsor.

 

“UHC and WVU Medicine provide critical care and life-saving health services to West Virginians, and we’re grateful to support their important work,” said Antero Resources Regional Senior Vice President Kevin Ellis. “As a proud and longstanding partner, we’re thrilled to present this fun event and appreciate the staff and volunteers for raising awareness and resources to help women and children in our region receive the most advanced care.”

 

Pierpont Culinary School supported the project by providing culinary students to make the potato salad and Obatzda for the baskets. Along with Natalie Feltz, culinary arts program coordinator, students worked in the UHC kitchen Thursday. (Read more HERE.)

 

Lopez said she is grateful for the regional support received.

 

“Foodies will appreciate the contents of the basket, and at the same time they can feel good about making a difference for children and teens facing hospitalization.”

 

Editor's Note: Top and bottom photos are by Joe LaRocca. Others are by Julie Perine. More Joe LaRocca images will be posted to Connect-Bridgeport this week.