BASE jumpers say ‘thank you’

Gloria’s Corner Cafe hosted the second Free Meals for First Responders event, sponsored by the Moab BASE Association, on July 13. Over 50 meals were served free to members of the Grand County Search and Rescue team, Grand County EMS, Moab City Police Department, Grand County Sheriff’s Department, and the Moab Valley Fire Department. 

The Moab BASE Association unites local BASE jumpers in promoting ethical practices and positive community relationships, and in fundraising for donations to local organizations. The group came up with the Free Meals event as a way to show goodwill and gratitude to the community and its emergency response personnel. 

The inaugural event last year was a hit, with about 40 meals provided to first responders. Moab BASE Association member Matt Lajeunesse said that first year offered proof of concept; the group would love to continue the event and possibly expand it in the future to include other restaurants and/or other recreation groups. 

“We’re looking to grow the idea,” Lajeunesse said. 

Gloria’s General Manager Hannah Trivette said turnout this year was even better than last year. She’s proud to partner with Moab BASE to support local first responders—including her son, Joshua Stalpes, who has served as a deputy for the Grand County Sheriff’s Department for several years. 

“I feel like in our community that all the first responders don’t necessarily get as many pats on the back as they deserve,” Trivette said. “This is one way to pay it forward to them.” 

Trivette spoke with many first responders who picked up a meal that day. 

“They love it,” she said. “They all have so much gratitude for being recognized.” 

Gloria’s Cafe and local organization Moab Cares paid for 30% of the meals; the rest was covered by the Moab BASE Association, which also made sure to tip the servers who worked that day. Trivette said Gloria’s staff also put together to-go orders for first responders who couldn’t leave work to come to the restaurant in person—such as employees at the Grand County jail and emergency dispatchers. 

Trivette looks forward to continuing Free Meals for First Responders as an annual event. 

“I think it’s a beautiful way to extend our gratitude to all the emergency first responders in this town,” she said.