Precious Pearl Gala Set for June 2 at Trump National

Bernards PEC (Parents for Exceptional Children) will host the third fundraising Precious Pearl Gala at 7 p.m. on Saturday, June 2, at the Trump National Golf Club, 900 Lamington Road, Bedminster, with a theme of "Passport to Unexpected Destinations."

This year’s event will celebrate the many colors and cultures of disabilities while treating guests to the diverse flavors, sounds and sights of the world, according to the group, which advocates and supports projects for children with learning and developmental disabilities. PEC has donated to and participated in many projects in the

This year's gala will feature a live and silent auction, buffet dinner, open bar and live entertainers from around the world, such as a hula dancer, belly dancer, flamenco dancer, cigar roller and DJ. Top live auction items include vacations in Hawaii, Cancun, Florida and Cape Cod. The silent auction will include luggage, cameras, jewelry, and much more.

Dress for the event is cocktail attire.

Tickets for the gala are $175 per person and can be purchased online at the PEC's website. Proceeds from the event will help Bernards PEC expand their art and dance programs, create new music and theater programs, and continue to support existing programs for children with special needs within the community.

A portion of the ticket price will be tax deductible.

The gala also will be evening when the PEC announces the winners of this year's Dream Destination Grand Raffle, which is still ongoing. The grand raffle prize is a $5,000 voucher toward a vacation from First prize is a three-night Disney World Package and second prize is a Travelocity gift card.

The number of raffle tickets to be sold is limited to 1,000, the organizers said last month. Winners need not be present to win.

Tickets cost $100 and are available by downloading the application form at bernardspec.com or by sending an email to bernardspec@gmail.com. Raffle tickets may not be purchased online, so the entry form must be downloaded and mailed to Bernards PEC, 5 Lyons Mall, Box 160, Basking Ridge, with checks made payable to the Bernards PEC, the organizers said.

Deadline for raffle ticket purchases in May

"Any tickets purchased by mail should be postmarked no later than May 26 to ensure delivery to the PEC mailbox prior to the Gala Event," Lisa McNey, co-president of the PEC, said last month.

The Bernards PEC is a not-for-profit organization that advocates for children with learning and developmental disabilities. The mission of the Bernards PEC is to provide the support that families, educators, and community organizations need to help individuals with disabilities reach their full potential. The group's philosophy also is to "strive to create an environment of understanding and acceptance for persons with disabilities within the community."