File photo: Brian Koegle and Vanessa Wilk

Supporters of the SCV Senior Center who plan to take part in the 2017 Celebrity Waiter event will only have to reach back into their favorite music play list to come up with a table-decorating theme for this year’s dinner. The theme is “Let the Music Play,” and the event is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 18, at the Hyatt. Regency Valencia.

This year’s event co-chairs are Vanessa Wilk and Tony Watson. Event master of ceremonies will be Brian Koegle, and auctioneer will be Curt Waite.

Sponsors get to unleash their creative side and have some fun decorating their table and encouraging their guests to dress the part as well.  Some table sponsors already are working on their decoration plans, using themes covering their favorite music formats. Prizes will be awarded for the best table theme and decorations.

The volunteer waiters are honing their competitive spirit with one another by doing some pre-event fundraising, which will count, along with “tips” received from guests, toward the Stanley (Favorite Waiter) award.  In addition to the waiters’ antics at each table, live entertainment, an auction, dancing and music will round out the evening of fun. A professional photographer will be on hand to photograph costumed couples and teams.

Premium tables are available now and the committee has a goal to sign up 30 sponsored tables before this year’s dinner. Table sponsorships are available at levels ranging from the $10,000 presenting sponsorship to $5,000, $3,500 and $1,500, each seating 10 guests. Table sponsorships come with such perks as preferred table location, wine and other benefits, depending on sponsorship level. The committee is working on a variety of new and exciting perks for table sponsors at this year’s event. The committee also is working on a selection of new and unique items to go on the live auction block at the dinner.

Individual seats can be reserved on a space-available basis for $150 each, which includes $50 in scrip, which can be used to “tip” the waiter. Sponsors can provide their own “celebrity” waiter or request the committee to provide a waiter.

The event has an ambitious fundraising goal of $100,000 net.  Proceeds from this annual event support such programs as the Senior Center’s home delivered meals for homebound seniors, respite day care, the Handyworker program, hosted recreational, educational and support group activities and supportive services.  Last year’s special Fund-a-Bus program helped support a new bus to transport seniors to and from special events sponsored by the SCV Senior Center.

This year’s event has a newly expanded social media and Internet presence. Visitors can see photos of past events and comments on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/scvcelebritywaiter/. Guests and table sponsors can make purchases online and obtain further information at www.scvcelebritywaiter.com.

Further information and table sponsorship reservations also can be obtained by calling Jennifer at (661) 259-9444, ext. 144.