A local couple who has shown dedication to STARS by raising thousands of dollars each year are now part of STARS’s latest advertising campaign.
Fran Nargang, owner of the Old Grouch's Restaurant, and her husband Garry have become famous for hosting the 24-Hour Jam at the restaurant. A few years ago, they began to dedicate the funds raised at the event to STARS Air Ambulance when their grandson was injured after being hit by a car. The couple credit STARS’s quick response for him today living a normal life.
This year STARS kicked off its new Red Ring For Life campaign. This is a program where supporters can, for $60, receive a red stainless steel ring. According to www.stars.ca, “the ring is a symbol of survival, and worn by former patients, members of the chain of survival and supporters. It represents the many hands involved in a life-saving mission.”
Beginning in June, a television spot will feature people who have been touched by the work of STARS. This includes patients, family, and friends of patients; all wearing the Red Ring. It starts by stating that one out of 10 Albertans either knows a STARS patient, or has been a STARS patient. Fran and Garry are featured in the 30-second spot.
Fran tells inSide Drumheller the commercial was shot a few weeks ago, and commercial will be in rotation starting June 1. They went into Calgary, and Shaw Cable shot the commercial.
“I thought it was good,” said Fran.
The spot comes out just in time for this year’s 24-Hour Jam. Last year the event broke its $6,000 goal by raising about $6,500, and this year they are hoping to raise $10,000. Fran says they are on track to have a successful event with many items donated to the silent auction that runs during the event. Staff at the Old Grouch's also donate their wages and tips to the cause each year.
They are also lining up some great entertainment. Fran says this year representatives from STARS will be at the event with information and merchandise.
The 24-Hour Jam starts on Friday, June 4 at 6 p.m. and ends on June 5 at 6 p.m.
Another addition to the event is the possibility of seeing Garry in a skort. Pledge sheets are available for those who would like to see Garry show a little leg for the cause.
For more information on the event, or to donate items to the silent auction contact Fran at 403-823-5755.
