The Bradford Hospital Auxiliary (BHA) hosted the second annual Blueberry Festival at Bradford Regional Medical Center (BRMC), a Kaleida Health facility, on Friday, raising more than $4,500.

The event, held in the main lobby of BRMC, attracted around 250 community members with blueberry themed treats, prizes and raffles.

“We were so excited to bring this event back again,” said Stephanie Huber, BHA executive director. “With the success from last year’s Blueberry Festival along with the engagement from vendors and our community, we knew that we had something special. We brought in some new vendors and did some things differently from last year.”

More vendors, giveaways and the addition of local entertainment amped up the festivities. Local vendors included Red, White & Blueberries, Escape Aqua Massage and Infrared Therapy Spa, Everything Baked, Fran Charles Shop, Twipes, Dawn Skillman Creations, Graves Maple Farm, Carmillie’s, Athena Nutrition and Small Town Girl Boutique.

Funds were generated from food sales that included freshly made waffles with blueberry topping and silent auction ticket purchases. Forty-two themed baskets donated by BRMC employees and community members were raffled off throughout the day.

“I want to thank our community for their continued support, our sponsors, and of course, our staff at BRMC. We’re so grateful for each of you. Also, I’d like to express my sincerest gratitude for our volunteers, you’re all so amazing,” said Huber.

Organizers thanked event sponsors: American Refining Group (ARG), Aramark, Country Fair, Dean Bauer, Dr. Holly Spittler, H&R Block, Kessel Construction Inc., Kiwanis Club of Bradford, Father Leo Gallina, Nellie Wallace, Philo & Sarah Blaisdell Foundation, Stacie Salerno and United Refining Co.

The Bradford Hospital Auxiliary supports the mission and vision of BRMC through fundraising and retail operations. The auxiliary sponsors annual nursing and radiology scholarships to area students interested in becoming a healthcare professional.

Stacie Salerno, auxiliary board member; Stephanie Huber, executive director; and Nellie Wallace, auxiliary board member; posed for a photo in front of a blueberry balloon creation by Belle’s Balloons, following a successful second annual Blueberry Festival.

Era photo by Wade Aiken