“Everyone expressed delight with the new venue,” Schaedel said. “The ballroom was dramatic and romantic, while the silent auction and bar area was elegant without being ostentatious. There was plenty of space to move around...without being crowded.”
Auction items included swimming lessons, weekend getaways, restaurant dinners, college counseling sessions, pitching lessons and Tiffany’s jewelry, among other things. A teacup Maltese puppy, donated by Debbie Johannes, sold for $2,500. A second Maltese puppy is still available and the proceeds will go to the foundation, Johannes said. The puppies have become a favorite auction item.
While figures are still being tallied, event co-chair Dale Storz said, initial counts indicated that the Gala raised more than $320,000.
Sharon Otsuka, president of the LCHS 7/8 PTA, was given the Spirit of Outstanding Service Award, which recognizes a member of the community for his or her outstanding service to the La Cañada Unified School District.
“I never really expected it,” Otsuka said of the award. “I am very honored and quite surprised that I was the awardee, and to be honored in such a fantastic way.”
She quickly turned the spotlight on her fellow volunteers, thanking them for their ongoing commitment to the school district. La Cañada parents set a strong example for their children by being engaged with the district in a variety of ways, she said.
“[Family involvement] is one of the crucial elements to make the community what it is, and the schools what [they are,]” Otsuka said. The kids learn from the parents being models.”
Run by parent volunteers, the foundation raises money which it then donates to the La Cañada Unified School District. The money goes to support music and arts programming, as well as school libraries.
The foundation funds also support district technology development, including the replacement of aging computers and the purchase of innovative teaching tools such as the Mimio, an electronic white board now being used in two dozen LCUSD classrooms.
Last year LCFEF made its largest contribution in its history — a $1.29 million.
LCFEF has indicated it expects to donate about $1 million annually for the next several years. The importance of foundation contributions has grown increasingly apparent as state cuts to education funding deepen.
For additional information about the Maltese puppy, contact Debbie Johannes at (818) 790-2719.
