The Soledad Club is being transformed in a South Pacific paradise for Pacific Beach Elementary’s Literacy and Learning Luau Auction FUNdraiser Friday, April 25.
“It’s huge,” said the event’s auction chair Marie Schlake. “Next year the district has asked the school to cut 10 to 15 percent of their budget, so this fundraiser is even more important.”
Pacific Beach Elementary has been holding a big fundraiser similar to this luau every two years since 1992. At the 2006 event, $21,000 was raised. Schlake said the goal of this year’s luau is to raise $22,000 and that her attendance goal of 150 has already been met.
Money raised from the luau will fund field trips, bussing for those trips and unique assemblies. Some of the funds will be given directly to teachers for use in the classroom. No matter the destination, Schlake said 100 percent of the money raised goes to the school.
“Overall it just helps the students aside from the basics of what they’re getting in class,” Schlake said. “If they didn’t have that extra money, they wouldn’t be able to do those extra fun lessons.”
The luau will feature a authentic Hawaiian buffet from Leilani’s Café in Pacific Beach, featuring kalua pork, teriyaki chicken, macaroni and cheese, steamed rice and assorted steamed vegetables. Entertainment will feature Kaloa O Kaleo ‘Onalani Hawaiian Dance School. There will also be an open bar.
Those in attendance will also have the opportunity to bid on live and silent auctions. Live auction items include a four-night stay at the Sheraton Waikiki, his-and-her beach cruisers and a Kawai upright piano. One of the silent auctions features a parents night out dinner package that includes babysitting.
“We’ve got a pretty good array of stuff to meet every budget,” Schlake said.
Tickets for the fundraiser can still be purchased before Monday, April 21, at the school, located at 1234 Tourmaline St. Tickets are $30 for individuals and $50 for couples.
Reserved tables for 10 people are available for $220.
On the day of the event, individual tickets can be purchased at the door for $40. Attire is luau casual. The event is scheduled from 5 to 10 p.m.
The Soledad Club is located at 5050 Soledad Road. For information call Schlake at (858) 488-8316.