The Old Grouch my not be so grouchy if it can reach its goal raising funds for STARS Air Ambulance.
The Old Grouch’s 24 Hour Jam has become a fixture in the community and synonymous with raising funds for STARS, a cause owner Fran Nargang and her husband Garry feel very strongly about.
Their grandson’s life was saved by STARS years ago. Today he is a healthy 19-year-old attending university.
This year’s event is set to start on Friday June 5, at 6 p.m. and finish off Saturday at 6 p.m.
On top of 24 hours of music, food, drink and fun, they are also hosting their annual silent auction. Back this year is the sumo wrestling, where grudges can be settled in gigantic padded suits. As usual, staff is always generous at the event donating their time, pay and tips to STARS.
New to the event this year is a yard sale. It is one more way to help raise funds for STARS,
They do have their work cut out this year to try and top last year’s efforts, where they brought in $10,500 plus $5,000 donated by The Town of Drumheller.
“This year we have set our goal quite a bit higher, so we really need your help,” said Nargang.
Last year the 24 hour Jam contributed the funds it raised to a new campaign called “Gifts That Take Flight.” This gives donors a chance to direct their support towards Stars’ needs. Last year the funds from the 24 Hour Jam went towards the Gift of Flight, and sponsored a mission.
Leah Johnson, development officer for STARS explains, “It is $5,400 on average to fly our helicopter, pick someone up and use our medical equipment. We allow people to donate, and when they do they will receive a plaque with a flight that was done, usually in that area.”
“It can be rewarding, especially in an area like Drumheller where it is very community based, and know your money has gone towards helping someone in that community.”
To learn more about this year’s 24 Hour Jam, or to donate to the silent auction or yard sale contact Nargang at 403-823-5755.
