The 20th Annual Hamburger Bash held at North Mountain Middle School was abuzz with activity last Saturday. New and repeat visitors enjoyed hundreds of hamburgers with all the trimmings, 100 pounds of potato salad, salsa, chips, and choice of desserts.

In addition to the popular opportunity drawing, boutique table, and crafts for children, this year's special treat was a car show. Members of the Cruisin' A's displayed ten of their lovingly restored Model A Fords dating from 1928 to 1931.

President of the Cruisin A's Bob Spradlin said: "We're a familyoriented club. Husbands, wives, and children all get involved."

For 20 years , the San Jacinto Community Builders have sponsored the Hamburger Bash and three years ago the San Jacinto Education Foundation became a permanent co-sponsor.

"Our group was established in 1950," explained Nancy Warneke, Chairwoman of Community Builders, "to help build a strong community. Many of our members are aging and we needed new energy and funding to keep going. The Education Foundation is providing that."

Jerry Peebles , President of the Education Foundation, said his group is proud to be involved. Peebles' family goes back three generations in San Jacinto and he is also Gaming Commissioner for the Soboba Tribal Gaming Commission.

"The Community Builders have set fine traditions in San Jacinto for decades, including the Hamburger Bash," Peebles said. "We're proud to partner with them to add funds, new ideas, and keep traditions alive."

Dr. Shari Fox, Superintendent of San Jacinto Unified School District, who manned the dessert table, said the proceeds help with scholarships and other programs. She added that last year $300 went to each of the seven elementary schools in the district for improvements that included playground equipment, safety, and attendance incentives.

Warneke said that many people come together to make the Hamburger Bash successful each year. She's especially grateful for the prize and food donations from businesses such as Farmer Boys, Cameron Books, True Value Hardware, J&J's Café and others.

Each year students volunteer to cook, serve and bus tables for visitors. Any extra food is donated to Valley Restart.

Warneke said the Hamburger Bash draws school alumni, new friends who are just meeting, and old friends reconnecting.

After 20 years of sponsoring the bash, the one Warneke won't easily forget was one that was held at the Masonic Temple some years ago.

"That same day the Fire Department set fire to an old building nearby, as a practice drill, and our entire event came to a standstill as we all went outside to watch the amazing work of the fire fighters."

New members and donations are always welcome at San Jacinto Community Builders. For further information, call Warneke at 654- 4550. The Cruisin' A's website is www.cruisinas.com.