By Robin GOLDSWORTHY

t seemed like a good decision. In 2007, Crescenta Valley High School purchased over $6,000 worth of dumbbells for its fitness room along with elliptical, arc trainers, stationary bikes, and treadmills. The purchases enhanced the school’s facilities for physical education and athletics. According to athletic director Dave Mendoza, the fitness room is the most used room on campus.

However, a bad batch of urethane on the dumbbells resulted in deterioration according to manufacturer Iron Grip. Because all warranties had expired, Iron Grip agreed to replace the dumbbells, this time using rubber, at a discounted cost to CVHS of $4,875.56.

Unfortunately, the school didn’t have the money. In desperation, an open letter to the Falcon community was posted asking anyone who was able to donate money to reach the large amount.

Initially about $800 was raised from parents and some alumni. But then the Montrose-La Crescenta Kiwanis heard about the dilemma and presented the school with a check for $4,050.

According to ASB Advisor/Director of Activities John Pehar, the timing could not have been better.

“This is one of those situations that cannot wait. Purchase of the dumbbells is a priority. Our weight room (actually two rooms) is used by all of our student athletes and teams. Currently there are about 950 students participating in one or more sports. The weight room is also used by our PE classes and, if you combined PE students with athletes, the number of students using the weights is closer to 2,000 students. The dumbbells are the most used items in the room,” Pehar stated in a letter to the Kiwanis.

In November, Robert Wollenweber presented a check for $4,050 on behalf of the Montrose-La Crescenta Kiwanis to John Pehar for the purchase of the dumbbells.

“We were very excited when Robert called offering support from the Montrose-La Crescenta Kiwanis. Fundraising efforts began a couple months back. We received a donation from our CVHS PTSA, and Robert’s call was the homerun needed to get the job done,” said Pehar. “This is really special, because many PE students and student athletes will benefit. It’s a win-win for children in our community for many years to come.”

  robin goldsworthy