Restaurant to host fundraiser to help save teachers’ jobs, cash-strapped district

2009-06-24 09:17:48 - The Hermosa Beach Education Foundation and Hermosa Valley and Hermosa View PTO’s have raised about $961,000 of their $1.5 million goal to help fund the budget shortfall. Salt Creek Grille hopes to raise as much money on June 24 to benefit the school district.

Salt Creek Grille will host a fundraiser Wednesday as part of a last-ditch effort to benefit the Hermosa Beach School District and save teachers’ jobs.

The Hermosa Beach Education Foundation and Hermosa Valley and Hermosa View PTO’s have raised about $961,000 of their $1.5 million goal to help fund the budget shortfall. The state requires districts to have a balanced budget by the end of June.

Salt Creek Grille’s “Family BBQ” kicks off at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 24 at Hermosa Valley School, 1645 Valley Drive. The popular eatery is donating to the fundraiser by dishing up delectable gourmet burgers with all the tasty trimmings, including French fries, salad and a drink. Cost is $20 per burger meal deal.

Salt Creek Grille Managing Partner Hilary Condren, whose two children attend Hermosa View, said he hopes to raise as much money as possible to help save jobs.

“Part of this is personal … my son’s teacher received his pink slip and we cannot lose great teachers,” Condren said. “The community suffers as a whole when education suffers and we need the community’s help to make a difference.”

District officials said the district has not determined which programs will be saved because of donations. It depends on how much money is raised and the severity of cuts in state funding. The school district will adopt its budget June 24.

The public is encouraged to attend the fun-filled fundraising event and support the school district. Bring picnic blankets and chairs, Frisbees, footballs and your wallet to the Valley School field.

For more information about Salt Creek Grille, visit www.saltcreekgrille.com or call 310-335-9288.