Stephen Gilson Jr.
Staff Writer
The Claremont Educational Foundation hosted its annual Chocolate Walk on Saturday in downtown Claremont, where local businesses participated offering various chocolate treats to raise money for the Claremont schools.
Tickets were $30 to participate in the walk, or $100 for a family.
“Our primary objective … is to raise funds (for) every school in the district for art, music programs and technology,” said Deborah Kekone, Claremont Education Foundation board member.
The event raised more than $20,000.
“It is important for us to support the school system,” said Selene Rios, pharmacy technician for Hendrick’s Pharmacy on Harvard Avenue in downtown Claremont.
Some businesses outside of the city also participated.
Claim Jumper in Rancho Cucamonga showed up to give out made-from-scratch desserts as well. General Manager Oliver Oscar said that events like the Chocolate Walk give his business an opportunity to market themselves while making an important contribution to Claremont Schools.
Participants walked around the Claremont Village to sample the luscious chocolates and desserts. Among them were the fresh cakes and muffins from Claim Jumper, various chocolate treats from Bert and Rocky’s Ice Cream Co. on Yale Avenue.
Some stores set up their tasty treats inside, while others hosted outdoor booths.
“We benefit from children learning about music and technology,” said Heather Ventola, who attended the Chocolate Walk. “So it is our responsibility to support the children.”
Although chocolates and sweets were reward enough for most, the price of the ticket also came with a “golden ticket” entry into a contest to win a variety of gift baskets.
The basket included tickets to theaters, zoos and theme parks, along with gift cards for various restaurants and more chocolates.
The Claremont Education Foundation smashed its goal of $15,000 with the total number looking to hit over $20,000 raised from participants, sponsors, and donations.
Stephen Gilson Jr. can be reached at stephen.gilson@laverne.edu.
Stephen Gilson Jr. is a sophomore journalism major with a concentration in broadcast journalism. He played baseball and football in high school and is an avid sports enthusiast.
