Burger Bar 57 to Rock Out Against Cystic Fibrosis

Looking for some music, food and fun this Saturday?

How about the chance to contribute to a cause that will help to improve the lives of thousands worldwide? Well, in Pelham might be the place to g

The restaurant is teaming up with Youth Arts Forum for “Rock for a Burger and a Cure,” which is a benefit for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. The event, which costs $5, will feature musical performances from members of the YAF, a free buffet from noon to 2 p.m., and a 10 percent discount off of everyone dinner bill at the Burger Bar 57 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

“It’s going to be a nice community organized music fest,” said Pattie Massa, development director at Cystic Fibrosis Foundation of Greater New York. “The Youth Arts Forum are a very talented group of young musicians. It’s going to be a great time.”

Cystic fibrosis is a chronic disease that affects the lungs and digestive system. The disease can lead to life-threatening lung infections and impede the body’s ability to break down food.

About 1,000 new cases of cystic fibrosis are diagnosed each year and the predicted median age of survival for people with the disease is the late 30s, according to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

The World Youth Forum, which is based out of Mount Vernon, is as a nonprofit organization that aims to provide young artists and performers with outlets of creative expression. The organization was founded in 1990 and 325 members from across the globe.

Barry Salottolo, the organization’s founder, said the group picks a different cause to raise money for each year.This year, the group picked cystic fibrosis and has already performed in a number benefit shows.

“These kids are really good,” Salottolo said. “Bria Kelly, who was a finalist in America’s Got Talent is one of our members. They keep playing and they get better each gig.  They’re just happy to have the opportunity to perform.”

The rock band Members of the Press, along with singer/songwriters Whitney Kelly and Cal Kehoe are scheduled to perform during Saturday.

Massa said benefits like the one being thrown on Saturday play an essential role in helping her organization fulfill its mission.

“Grassroots fundraising is what keeps us going,” Massa said. “ These events not only raise more money for us, but the help to educate the public about cystic fibrosis.”