Rupe’s Burgers, Relay Team Up To Fight Cancer
After months of events, Bingham County Relay for Life is just days away from its fundraising deadline in the fight against cancer. But one Blackfoot restaurant is stepping up to help the organization reach its goal.
Milkshake making at Rupe’s Burgers is as common as the regulars who fill the counter seats inside the Main Street restaurant.
“Everybody who walks through the door, I know almost everybody,” said owner Kevin Rupe.
The small-town values of the family-run business, and its famous burgers, spuds and shakes, have made it a fixture in Blackfoot for nearly a quarter of a century.
And this week, Rupe’s is rallying the community to help the Bingham County Relay for Life in its fundraising fight against cancer.
“It’s kind of contagious,” said Rupe. “Kind of gets you excited to help things out.”
“I think so many people have been affected by cancer in one way or another,” said Sara Erb, chair of the relay committee.
Erb said that’s why the organization is teaming up with Rupe’s for the “Ten Dollar Challenge.”
At $113, 644, they only have until Aug 31 to reach their goal of $115,000.
When you donate, your name goes into a hat, and whoever’s ticket is pulled out gets a menu item named after them at Rupe’s new restaurant, which is set to open in mid-Oct.
“It really depends on what the name is, you know,” said Rupe.
Tommy Vaughn’s Grill, named in part for Rupe’s grandson, will go into the old PBG’s building by Jensen Grove, and offer a variety of steaks, sandwiches and desserts.
“I think maybe ‘Steve’s Smorgasboard,'” suggested Rupe’s regular Steve Allen. “A smattering of everything.”
Allen said it’s a worthy prize for a worthy cause.
“It gives that local hometown flavor,” said Allen. “(It) sort of involves the community, puts the prize back into the community.”
The challenge runs through Wednesday and a name will be drawn on Thursday, Sept 1.
To donate, you can stop by Rupe’s Burgers on Main Street in Blackfoot, or follow the link to www.relayforlife.org/blackfootid
