KNOX — Cliff Stephens, of North Judson, approached Mayor Rick Chambers about hosting a Bluegrass Jam. Chambers agreed with one stipulation: Stephens had to incorporate a food drive into the event.
“Cliff is a big fan of Blue Grass jams that are put on in the area. A group of musicians and their friends get together to play music, share good food and enjoy a good time. The groups just need a place to play. The Mayor’s Office agreed to help sponsor the event, with the stipulation that a food drive be incorporated into it,” Chambers said.

The event evolved into something much bigger than anyone envisioned.
“More than 230 people showed up. The response was overwhelming. There was enough great food to feed an army; singing and dancing that lasted nonstop for four hours; there were at least three different bands who performed and also many individual performers,” Chambers said.
“More than 1200 pounds of food was collected for the local food pantry and $266 was also donated. This was money raised from a 50/50 drawing that was held during the event,” he said.
Chambers said he was appreciative of Cliff Stephens, Burl Manns and Hazel and Eldon Risner for their help in planning such a successful event; and the many people who helped and brought donations for the food bank.