Seahorse Social to benefit island school
Tickets are on sale for The Sanibel School PTA’s first large-scale fundraiser in over a year.
The Seahorse Social will take place on Oct. 22 from 6:30 to 10 p.m. at The Community House on Sanibel. With the proceeds to benefit the island school, it will feature Spanish- and Latin-inspired food and drinks, live music by a local band and a performance by students, and live and silent auctions.
PTA President Jennifer Braun explained that the pandemic and the circumstances surrounding it have made it difficult over the last year for the parent-teacher group to raise funds as it typically would.
“We just haven’t been able to come together and have people contributing,” she said, explaining that a proactive approach is needed to meet school needs and impact the students’ educational experience.
“So we’re really pleased to be going ahead with this event,” Braun added.
Open to ages 21 and older, the fundraiser will feature fresh paella made on-site by Fire & Rice, plus sangria and Spanish wine. The Heat Latin Jazz Band, a seven-piece salsa and Latin jazz group based in Fort Myers, will keep attendees entertained. In addition, the school’s Steel Drum Band will perform.
“It will be a wonderful evening of socializing,” she said.
Event chair and PTA Fundraising & Sponsorship Chair Samantha Baker explained that the auctions will feature something for every interest. Among the items up for grabs will be a stay at the Casa Ybel Resort with dinner at the Thistle Lodge, a two-night stay at the ‘Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa, a Roberto Coin diamond necklace from Congress Jewelers, a fishing charter with Captain Noah, an adult painting party for six with local artist Rachel Pierce, a sunset cruise with Adventures in Paradise plus Paper Fig Kitchen appetizers, rentals from Billy’s Rentals, a paella party by Fire & Rice, and more.
“And each of our grades created a class basket with a theme,” she said.
Tickets range from $115 to $150, depending on purchase date and PTA membership status.
The deadline to reserve tickets is Oct. 18 or until they run out.
When people register, they will have the option to request to be seated as a group or socially distanced. Attendees will be seated at full dining tables and attempts will be made to honor requests submitted.
“We’re trying to accommodate all those as much as possible,” Braun said.
Masks are required throughout The Community House’s common spaces, including the restrooms and lobby. Within the event space, they are suggested for unvaccinated individuals per CDC guidelines.
“Outside of that we’ve said, ‘Mask to your comfort,'” she said.
Attendees are invited to dress up in line with the theme, or don island causal attire.
As for the event proceeds, Braun explained that the Sanibel school is a smaller public school that is not a Title I institution. As such, it does not receive the same level of funds as other Lee County schools.
“What we help fund is student enrichment, and anything that the school will come and ask us to fund,” Baker added. “To help the students have a special experience — outside of just the learning aspect.”
The public is encouraged to reserve tickets.
“I just think it’s very important, especially for the island community, to really support The Sanibel School,” Baker said. “The children and families are part of the community, and it makes Sanibel such a special place.”
Braun echoed that sentiment.
“This definitely is not just an event just for families of students at The Sanibel School,” she said. “It’s really about continuing to connect the school with the community.”
“This school is small, but it can be mighty with the community’s support,” Braun added. “Show the next generation and the kids that this community is behind them.”
To buy tickets, visit thesanibelschoolPTA.com.
The PTA will also have a booth set up at the Sanibel Island Farmers Market on Oct. 17.
For more information, visit the website or email sanibelptaboard@gmail.com.
The Community House is at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.
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IF YOU GO
What
Seahorse Social
When
Oct. 22 from 6:30 to 10 p.m.
Where
The Community House, 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel
Why
To raise funds for The Sanibel School
Details
Tickets range from $115 to $150
To reach TIFFANY REPECKI / trepecki@breezenewspapers.com, please email