Mayor Edwin M. Lee today issued the following statement:

“I want to acknowledge the Hellman family for their continued commitment to San Francisco residents.  The extraordinary generosity of time and philanthropic donations from the Hellman family and the late Warren Hellman have touched the lives of so many, leaving a lasting legacy on our City. 

Always at the center of great causes, Warren Hellman and the Hellman family have been dedicated to improving the lives of San Francisco residents for decades.  For many, the most notable contribution from the Hellman family is the creation and sponsorship of Hardly Strictly Bluegrass in our world-class Golden Gate Park.  Each year, the annual music event brings together friends, families and visitors to celebrate San Francisco’s vibrant communities and the arts. And as the event has grown over the last 15 years it has become an opportunity for visitors from all across the nation and around the globe to take advantage of everything San Francisco has to offer. That means folks spending money in our small businesses, eating at our restaurants, and spreading the word about our great City, all of which plays an important part in our growing economy.

I’m grateful to the Hellman family for their continued efforts to carry out Warren Hellman’s legacy of philanthropy and dedication to art, music, education, science and more. It’s this kind of dedication and compassion for our City that will continue to make it a great place to live and visit for generations to come.”