Budget solution

Hesperia Junior High School head track coach Patrick Milliner knew his athletes needed funds to help pay for new equipment and traveling expenses. But with the school district facing a severe budget crunch, Milliner had to find a creative solution.

Instead of charging each student’s family $75 or so to participate, he saw a team of able-bodied adolescents who could expend some elbow grease.

“I’m having them work for it,” he said.

So last Saturday, the coach and his team of runners, throwers and field athletes set up shop in the Wienerschnitzel parking. With towels, rags, soap, water and lots of enthusiasm the group washed cars, one by one.

“Our goal was $250 and we’re almost at $500,” Milliner said.

But Saturday’s event was just a start. “We’re going to have a really big one on Wednesday at Del Taco, from 4 to 8,” he added.