By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
Fundraisers and community events continue to pop up following the death of 14-year-old Rubi Paulina Perez on April 8. Now, some first responders are getting involved. Thursday night at 7 p.m., firefighters with the Great Bend Fire Department will take on the Harlem Wizards in a basketball game at Great Bend High School, hosted by Kansas Freemasons and Isis Shrine. GBFD will match up to $1,000 in donations to be given to Rubi's family. Kyler Clawson with Walk In Chiropractic in Great Bend has also announced he will match up to $1,000.
During Thursday's game, firefighters will also be taking cash or check donations. Those unable to attend the game can stop by either fire station in Great Bend to make a donation. Doors for Thursday's event open at 6 p.m.
The Luna family at DL Window Tint is also holding a large fundraiser this weekend. Earlier this week, the business had collected 100 donated items for a raffle. Tickets for the raffle will be sold from 5-7 p.m. Friday night at DL Window Tint, 17244 22nd Street, then again from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. this Saturday. Items will be raffled off early next week. All proceeds from the event will benefit Rubi's family.
In the wake of the tragedy, Blindside Grappling in Great Bend is offering free self-defense and jiu-jitsu classes for the next six months to all middle school, high school, and college-aged girls in the community. More than four dozen young women attended the class after Blindside made the announcement. Check out Blindside's Facebook page for more information.