On any other day of the year, the Pointer Association at Point Loma High School prides itself in emphasizing the 3-A’s: academics, arts and athletics. But on Sept. 1, the focus shifts to the 3-F’s: football, food and fun. The association annually stages the “Kick-Off” event, an all-day celebration built around the start of the prep football season. It is the single-largest fundraiser of the year for the Pointer Association, with a goal of $12,000. All funds raised go directly back to the school in various forms, last year totaling nearly $300,000 to offset some budgetary cuts and help PLHS students. As part of school tradition, 2012 Pointer football teams will all make their debuts, with the freshman team playing at 10 a.m. and the junior varsity at 12:30 p.m. before the 3 p.m. varsity main event. All games are against Mar Vista High from Imperial Beach. Athletes will also christen a new playing surface on Bennie Edens Field, adding to this year’s festivities in Pete Ross Stadium. PLHS parent and Pointer Association board member Maria Gibson is putting the community celebration together. Among the day’s highlights will be: • grilled hamburgers and hot dogs • ice-cold sodas, water and sports drinks • the first performance by the 2012 PLHS Vanguard band • special halftime performances during all three games • recognition of athletes in all fall sports at PLHS • a “silent auction” for fabulous items and packages School board member Scott Barnett will be on hand to help dedicate the school’s new weight-room facility, which has already drawn raves from visitors. The ceremony after the varsity game will include public tours of the building. All equipment came from a $90,000 “Champions Grant” from the Jimmie Johnson Foundation award two years ago after then-PLHS parents Lisa Tumbiolo and Ron Gemmill wrote the application. Senior class president Josh Morse made a video showing how a new weight room would benefit all students. Guests are reminded the Voltaire Street entrance to Pete Ross Stadium will be closed.