The Benicia Community Action Council (CAC) is proud to announce the return of its annual Administrative Professionals Day celebration to raise money for the Senior Meals Program. After a successful “Star Wars” themed event last year, the premise for this year is “Moonlight in Benicia.”

Sorry, that should have read “La La Land in Benicia.” Our mistake.

Yes, last year’s musical drama sensation starring Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone that won six Academy Awards and almost won Best Picture will be the basis for this year’s fundraiser. Benicia “celebrities” will walk down the runway to model clothes donated from the spring collections of Christina S Fashion Destination for the female models and Napa’s Williamson & Company for the male models. Those sporting clothing this year include city officials such as Mayor Elizabeth Patterson, Councilmember Alan Schwartzman, City Clerk Lisa Wolfe, City Manager Lorie Tinfow, City Attorney Heather McLaughlin and many other city employees and business representatives. The clothing will be a mix of formal and casual wear, and in keeping with the theme of “La La Land,” a jazzy soundtrack will provide the atmosphere, Christina S owner Christina Strawbridge said.

However, the biggest star is the cause being supported. Proceeds will benefit the CAC’s Senior Meals Program, which provides nutritious meals to seniors in the area.

“We have a commercial kitchen here and we prepare meals for seniors, and we send out about 50 a day,” CAC Director Viola Robertson said. “On holidays or weekends, we might have 70.”

However, Robertson said the cost to prepare the meals exceeds the cost to buy the meals.

“The cost we charge for seniors is $4, but technically it costs me about $8 to make the meals,” she said. “We do the fundraiser to keep the meals so we don’t have to charge them more for the meals.”

Robertson also hopes the event will be a good opportunity to promote other services the program provides, including positions for volunteer drivers and guest chefs.

“La La Land in Benicia” will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Wednesday, April 26 at the Clocktower, located at 1189 Washington St. A lunch buffet will be catered by Anne Marie and Randy Ramos at 907 Grill. Tickets are $40 and can be purchased at Christina S, located at 370 First St. For further information, contact Michele Hughes at 373-7571.

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