VISTA — The Optimist Club of Vista is one of just two in the nation with a clubhouse. The impressive Shadowridge facility was put to good use as the site of the annual Wine & Food Fest fundraiser July 26 raising money for both the Optimists and the Moonlight Cultural Foundation.

Crowds of people gathered for the event, including City Councilman Frank Lopez and other Vista luminaries. Sixty dollars bought them a chance to sample the tastes of several local restaurants, the tempting treats of Vista’s confectioneries and every type of wine imaginable, all to the swinging accompaniment of The Big Band and Jazz Hall of Fame Orchestra.

There were also silent and public auctions of a variety of goods.

“All of the funds that we raise are going to be used for our capital campaign,” Moonlight Executive Director Diana Aaron said. “We are raising $675,000 for sound and lighting equipment that will be used in the very new stage house which opens in 2009.”

The Optimists have had an annual fundraiser for decades to enable their support of the youth of Vista, such as their sponsorship of the local Little League. Moonlight Cultural Foundation became a joint sponsor of the event two years ago. Each organization sells its own tickets and contributes its own auction items. Aaron called it a win/win for both organizations, resulting in more revenue than would be raised from two solo events.