Editor’s note: This story was updated to correct the objective of this year’s fundraiser and add information on Middle Park Health’s scholarship and employee assistance funds.

The Middle Park Medical Foundation is organizing its second annual Country B.A.S.H. fundraiser, on Oct. 4 in Kremmling. At the Kremmling town board meeting on Sept. 17, the trustees approved a special event permit for the event.

This year, the Country B.A.S.H. (which stands for “building a superior hospital”) will raise money to support scholarship and employee assistance funds.

Last year in 2024, the event raised over $100,000 in funds for the Foundation’s Plank by Plank project to restore Kremmling’s Wellness Center gym for the enjoyment all of ages to stay active, play sports or host classes. The work is currently in progress with plans to be done by the spring of 2026.

“Since 2020, we have awarded over $150,000 in scholarship funds to MPH employees as well as Grand County High School students,” Andy Radzavich, executive director of Middle Park Medical Foundation, stated in an email. “These scholarships are granted to students pursuing further education in the field of human healthcare science, ranging from certified nursing assistant to surgeon.”

Employees who receive a scholarship are required to commit to a number of years working at Middle Park Health to fulfill their obligations.

“For high school students, while we encourage them to return to the county to work at MPH, we understand that young graduates deserve the opportunity to explore the world and are not required to do so,” Radzavich stated.

Since 2020, the employee assistance fund has provided more than $71,000 to support employees facing unexpected hardships. This includes situations such as the loss of a spouse, involvement in a car accident while commuting to work, or experiencing a house fire.

“The goal of this fund is to help our employees remain whole during challenging times when life feels at its most difficult,” Radzavich stated. “We strive to grow these funds by 10% each year so that they can have a meaningful impact on our community.”

The B.A.S.H. will be from 5:30 to 10 p.m at the McElroy Air Field airport hangar in Kremmling, featuring live country music by Jeff Goodwin and Front Range Cowboys. Goodwin was named Colorado Country Music Hall of Fame’s 2025 Male Vocalist of the Year. There will be barbecue smoked by community member George Rojas and an auction. Tickets for the event are $50 for adults and $10 for kids ages 6-12.

Demolition Derby to return?

At the board meeting, trustees also discussed the possibility of bringing back the Demolition Derby to Kremmling for summer 2026. The event was a well-loved tradition by locals and visitor. It was last held in August 2021.