LA HABRA : Graduation Night Party Gets Donations

The City Council last week contributed $450 to Sonora High School’s graduation night party, funds that were donated even after the school received an unexpected $5,000 windfall from Universal Studios.

Sonora students had planned a party at Universal Studios. But the theme park canceled, citing new management rules, and donated the money for the school to spend on graduation night festivities elsewhere.

The seniors now plan to go to Disneyland, said Rose Blumenthal, grad night chairwoman.

The city’s donation will be used to help pay for transportation to the Anaheim park. Blumenthal said three buses have been chartered. Each will cost $500.

The total cost of the party could top $11,000 if all 287 seniors attend. Only half the class is expected, however.

Blumenthal said donations from Universal Studios, local businesses and service groups will go to other senior class activities and help defray the cost of admission to Disneyland.

Students are purchasing tickets at a price of $20, saving $8.75 per ticket, she said.

To ensure a safe celebration at Disneyland, Blumenthal said, the seniors will be searched as they board buses at 10:30 the night of the party, June 16, and again when they arrive at the park.

Parents are asking local businesses to donate gifts from a wish list compiled by the students, Blumenthal said. Items include television sets, compact disc players, college supplies and compact refrigerators.

“I think this is great,” Blumenthal said. “I’m glad to see that the city and parents support the schools.”