Ralphs opens a store, and its wallet for local causes

LA CRESCENTA — In conjunction with the re-opening of its upgraded store in La Crescenta, Ralphs Grocery Co. announced $15,000 in donations for local schools and parks at a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday.

One of 29 of the company’s “Fresh Fare” stores, the newly renovated facility is modeled on an “upscale concept,” store director Dennis Holmes said.

More than 200 people attending the invitation-only pre-opening event perused a newly stocked wine cellar, an on-site bakery and sipped complementary sparkling cider.

“It’s got to be a record for turnout at a grand opening for us,” Ralphs President Dave Hirz said.

But perhaps more enticing to the local officials on hand was the company’s donation to local schools and parks. La Crescenta Elementary, Rosemont Middle School and the music and cheer programs at Crescenta Valley High School were each presented with $2,500 checks. Another $2,500 will go toward Two Strike Park.

“All I can say is ‘wow,’” said Steve Pierce, director of the Crescenta Valley Chamber of Commerce and a Crescenta Valley Town Council member. “It’s really, really great.”

The new store and the grants that came with it are a welcome addition to the community, said Kim Bishop, principal of La Crescenta Elementary.

“I want to thank Ralphs on behalf of our children,” Bishop said. “Not only will it be their healthy bodies that you’ll be feeding, but their healthy souls too.”

Rosemont Middle School’s money will go toward improvements of the library, Principal Sally Buckley said. Crescenta Valley High School’s funds will help repair “decades-old instruments” and purchase new ones for the music department, Principal Linda Evans said.

“In times of tight funds, to have $2,500 for both groups is amazing,” Evans said.

Members of the Crescenta Valley High School jazz combo expressed their thanks at the event with a performance of two Stevie Wonder songs.

The new Foothill Boulevard store has been closed for renovations since September, but shoppers can expect significant changes and additions, Ralphs District Operator Mike Blackwell said.

Skylights in the ceiling and wood encased aisles impressed Crescenta Valley Town Council President Grace Andrus.

“I’m looking around and this is a beautiful store,” Andrus said.

The company’s donation to local schools was an added bonus, she said.

“It’s the community that supports the businesses, so when businesses turn around and support the community, it’s really nice,” Andrus said.