The Rumsey Ride for STARS is going into its 35th year and is riding high in the saddle after breaking its $1 million milestone last year.
The Ride is STARS’ longest consecutively held fundraiser and throughout its history has taken on many new and different developments. Today the Ride has become iconic.
“We had the big accomplishment last year …and our group said let’s keep’er going. STARS is so important to everybody,” said one of the organizers Rob Richmond. “They always say it is more than a tradition in Rumsey–and it really is.”
“We want to leave a legacy, and one of the things that STARS does is as you continue on with your event, in order to keep the logos on the chopper you have to raise at least $15,000 at your event,” explains Richmond.
Last year the event was able to raise about $42,000, bringing its grand total to about $1,020,000.
The Annual ride on the ground goes on Sunday, August 11. Like in the last few years ground central is the Rumsey Agriplex.
They will be using the “Ride for a Million” route on the Nature Trail to Rumsey and back.
The event enjoys great community support and the Rumsey Volunteer Fire Department will be providing breakfast for riders as well as a beef dinner to wrap up the day.
Other pieces making the day so special include a silent auction and quilt raffle. There is also a poker rally with a $5 a-hand buy-in and Jill Brodie will be on site with her Ducks and Dogs Demo.
“We have such a great partnership with the Rumsey Ag Society,” said Richmond. “If it wasn’t for them we would have never been able to pull it off.”
While the ride is an exciting day, it is more than a one-day event. The Rumsey Ride is back with its online auction. This is a great fundraiser for people who want to support the cause but are not able to attend.
They also have kept up the tradition of Your Ride for STARS, where you can participate by collecting pledges and doing your own individual ride.
Of course Richmond also has his own project to raise funds. This year it is “Rob and Angie’s Walk 5 for 35”. This is on August 10, it is a 5k walk around Rumsey. Last year he had about 20 people come out to walk and many more sent in pledges.

    As quickly as it rains, last week’s heat wave is already causing tinder-dry conditions, prompting municipalities to take action.
    On Thursday, July 11, the Town of Drumheller issued a Fire Restriction. This means all existing Fire Permits are revoked, and consumer and commercial fireworks are forbidden.
    Recreational Fire Pits are permitted but must comply with the Town of Drumheller Fire By-Law. This means a fire pit must be at least 3 metres from any combustible materials, have an ember screen with openings no greater than 1.30 centimetres and only clean wood or charcoal may be burned.
    On the same day, Starland County issued a Fire Advisory. In this case, all active fire permits issued by the County are now rescinded. This will remain in effect until conditions change or we see some significant moisture.
    The Fire Advisory means all controlled burning operations are suspended, and no permits will be issued at this time.
    This does not prevent the use of fire pits or campfires; however, they are highly recommended only when conditions are suitable and proper fire containment facilities such as grates or screens are used in conjunction.
    On Friday, July 12, Kneehill County also issued a Fire Advisory. It notes that Burn Permits may be applied for, but Fire Guardians may deny applications due to varying conditions.
    Campfires, backyard fires and charcoal briquettes are allowed.