Hartnell College students, local businesses, and Salinas Mayor Dennis Donahue have partnered to “Strike Away at Violence” with a Thanksgiving Weekend Bowling Fundraiser at the Valley Center Bowl in Salinas.
Families, friends, school and church groups, and everyone interested in creating a stronger, safer community are encouraged to support this effort by coming out and bowling or by making a pledge to the mayor’s bowling efforts. All proceeds benefit the Salinas Police Activities League (PAL).
On Thursday and Friday evenings, November 27 and 28, from 5 p.m. through 12:30 a.m., Valley Center Bowl will honor discount bowling coupons entitling bowlers--up to five per coupon--to rent a lane for $20 an hour.
The fundraiser’s fun finale occurs on Saturday at 2 p.m. when Mayor Dennis Donahue and the sponsoring Hartnell class show their bowling talents while attempting to raise more money for Salinas PALS. If you would like to pledge at least 5 cents per pin to the mayor (maximum two games) or to a member of Hartnell's High Rollers, please come to the bowling alley to sign up or call Jesus Medina, Jr., at 831-206-6445 with your pledge.
Mayor Donahue will bowl from 2 to 3 p.m. The event continues until 5 p.m. when sponsoring businesses and the class bowl to raise their pledges.
The fundraiser was inspired by Hartnell students in an evening Communications Theory class, who were challenged to create an activity to support a local charity.
“We decided to create a fun, family-friendly activity that simultaneously supports an organization that promotes a safer, stronger community,” said Ron Onaka, an avid bowler and student in the class. “Bowling is such a fun way to spend quality time with your family or friends, and to be able to raise money for a good charity at the same time makes it extra special.”
You may get your discount coupons at Zeph's One Stop (1366 S. Main St.), KFC (1209 S. Main St.), 24-Hour Fitness (Sherwood Gardens at 1035 N. Main St.), Cozumel Mexican Restaurant (Alvin Square Shopping Center at 1447 N. Main St.), or at the Valley Center Bowl at 1081 S. Main St.
Admittance and parking are free. For more information or to make a pledge, please contact Medina at 206-6445.
