Joyce Rudolph
Officials believe they made more than $20,000 at Saturday's concert
starring Josh Kelley at the Starlight Bowl and say they already have
other fundraisers in the works.
There were 2,300 tickets sold, and between 1,500 and 2,000 people
attended, said Michael Hastings, chairman of the Burbank Priority In
Education Foundation.
"We know we will probably net, all funds going directly to the
schools, north of $20,000 after bills are paid," he said.
The group believes the event successfully raised awareness of the
need for donations to local schools, he added.
"People are hesitant to give to a cause like this because they
believe they give enough by paying taxes," he said. "It's not an easy
thing to explain, but I think people are catching on. And if anything
is worth it, kids are worth it."
Hastings added the foundation's accounting books are open to
anyone who wants to see them, and funds will be used only for school
needs.
Joining Hollywood Records recording artist Kelley at the concert
were The Crosby Loggins Band and The BlueLight Band, of which
Hastings is the drummer. Also performing were the Burbank High School
Vocal Ensemble and the John Burroughs Power House Choir.
The foundation is preparing to launch its Curb Appeal campaign to
paint address numbers on curbs of residences. Travis Knowles, a John
Burroughs graduate and a member of the foundation, is chairman of the
committee.
In addition, the foundation is planning to start a website, like
EBay, where people can purchase items with funds benefiting Burbank
schools. Cathy Stevens is this committee's chairwoman.
