Upcoming Granton kickball tourney to benefit Pam Eibergen

The Granton Area Fire and Rescue is ready to answer the call whenever the need arises. Now, they are taking the opportunity to help one of their own.

The fire department will host an all-day kickball tournament fundraiser on Saturday, July 26, in the Granton Community Park, with proceeds going to support Pam Eibergen in her fight against glioblastoma, a very aggressive brain cancer. Pam’s husband, Keith, and son, Cory, serve on the fire department, along with her brother-in-law, Gary, the current fire chief.

“They have all been on the department for a very long time and are the first ones there to help you in the community if you need anything. They’re very active in the community,” said Bev Friemoth, fellow firefighter, who is organizing the benefit.

The proceeds from the annual benefit always go back to support the Granton community in some way, whether it’s purchasing new equipment for the fire department, or assisting a member of the fire department. In the past six or so years the fundraiser has gone on, two other times the proceeds have been used to help with medical expenses for a family member of one of the firefighters who had cancer, and it has also helped a firefighter whose family experienced a house fire.

Friemoth said it’s a no-brainer to do what they can to ease the burdens of fellow firefighters.

“If there’s a need, we have done it, because it’s a family, and we want to take care of the members of our family,” said Friemoth.

There are several ways to get involved in this event. People may register a kickball team for $100 by calling Friemoth at 715-429-0556. A minimum of eight people is required for a team, and teams can be any number of men or women. The tournament will be capped at 12 teams. The winning team will receive a trophy.

There will also be two basket raffles at the event, one with higher-value items and another with traditional raffle basket items, with tickets available for $1 apiece. Throughout the day, various 50/50 raffles will take place.

Members of the park organization will also be selling concessions.

The entry fees and all proceeds from the raffles and concession sales will go directly to the Eibergen family.

If it rains, the event will move to the Granton Fire Station with the raffles still happening there.

People may call Friemoth at 715-429-0556 with any questions.