Support the River Road VFD and WVU Medicine Children’s at the June 14 Hope Bash.
Written by Jonathan Raines
Eat well, tap your toes, and win prizes this June 14—it’s the inaugural Hope Bash, an elimination dinner fundraiser for the River Road Volunteer Fire Department and WVU Medicine Children’s hospital.
The event features a Southern-style buffet of fried chicken, pot roast, and more with a three-hour beer and wine bar. There will be a silent auction and raffle drawings with valuable prizes like Stihl chain saws, smoker grills, and generators. The main event is the elimination drawing—one lucky attendee will win a grand prize of $5,000.
The afternoon’s musical entertainment is The Sages: bassist Ted Katner, drummer Sage Soccorsi, and keyboardist Jess Frey, all employees at WVU Medicine, along with lead guitar Shawn Miciotto and rhythm guitar Jason Crabtree. They play a mix of covers and originals with a ’90s alt-rock feel.
The Sages’ manager heard about Hope Bash, says Katner, and the band was happy to help. “It’s for a great cause, and when we heard about it, obviously—working at WVU—it seemed like a natural fit. We’re very excited, playing music for something that’s going to help folks. It doesn’t get any better than that.”
Hope Bash is more than just a fundraiser, says Bryan LaBuda, president of the River Road Volunteer Fire Department—it’s a celebration of community, resilience, and generosity. “By coming together, we can make a lasting impact for WVU Medicine Children’s and the River Road Volunteer Fire Department,” he says. “Every ticket purchased, every item donated, and every sponsorship secured brings us one step closer to strengthening the lives of those in need. We invite you to be part of something truly special.”
Tickets for the 2:30 p.m. event at the Morgantown Marriott at Waterfront Place are $100. Learn more on the Hope Bash website or Facebook event page or, to get tickets, call LaBuda at 912.222.6096 or Erin Blake at 304.376.3864.
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