Record Attendance At Portola Hills Elementary Silent Auction

Holding Portola Hills Elementary School’s annual silent auction at Rancho Las Lomas on Thursday boosted attendance, bringing in more attendees in support of the school's programs than in previous years.

This year's auction, dubbed “Adventure Under the Stars,” aimed to raise $20,000 for the school’s computer lab, library and cultural arts programs to make up for money lost due to state budget cuts.

Guests at the Silverado venue enjoyed a zoo tour, bar, music, and appetizers from Outback Steakhouse.

Parents, grandparents and other school supporters attended the event to support the school's library, technology and arts programs.

“[There should be] arts and music,” said Kathleen Dabney, 49, of Mission Viejo. “They still have a little bit, but not as much as they should.”

Dabney also assisted with the event by getting donations.

Guests throughout the evening placed auction bids and participated in a raffle.

Coordinator Julie Durkin estimated that ticket sales were up by 30 percent from 2011, with an estimated 267 attendees.

“This is the best place we’ve had the auction at,” said attendee Dawn Sweazey, 41, of Portola Hills. “It’s a beautiful facility.”