McGaugh Elementary School’s friends group Project SEEK (Seeking Excellence in Education for Our Kids) is proud to announce the success of its annual fundraiser, The Event, held Friday, March 27, at the Betty Reckas Cultural Center in Long Beach.
Led by Chairwomen Jessica Panzica and Lauren DeNinno, the fun-filled party raised over $80,000 and attracted 215 guests.
“This was such a fun night, I can’t believe how awesome the place looked,” said McGaugh parent Leanne Voigt.
This was Project SEEK’s first time at the new venue.
It was transformed into an alluring black and white lounge complete with couches, food stations, and dance floor by the décor team MaryJane Partlow, Corrie Hooykaas and Devynn’s Garden owner Cyndi Turk. “The event was a total success! It was orchestrated beautifully down to every detail. Everyone loved the venue and black/white theme,” said Lori Grace, McGaugh parent and owner of Advantage Produce.
Guests enjoyed dinner, dancing and live and silent auction with gift items donated by area businesses, McGaugh faculty, staff, and families.
The live auction was full of exciting prizes this year including a Cavachon puppy, a painting party with art teacher Terry Epps, and one lucky student winning principal for the day with Dr. Jerry Gargus. “I loved the live auction! So much excitement with many high bids!” said McGaugh parent Andrea Crammer.
Because of fundraisers such as The Event, Project SEEK recently gave a check totaling $133,338 to McGaugh for the 2015-16 school year to support its art and technology programs. “It was a great night celebrating the amazing programs we have at McGaugh!” Principal Gargus said, “These programs are an integral part of what makes McGaugh such a superb school—and a five-time winner of California’s Distinguished School Award,” said McGaugh teacher Cheryl Smith.
For more information about Project SEEK or to support the arts and technology programs, contact President Lauren DeNinno at laurenadavid@yahoo.com or Chairwoman Jessica Panzica at jessica@katogroup.com.
