Roundhouse Fundraiser at The Strand House

The Strand House will be the location of a fundraising party to benefit The Roundhouse Marine Studies Lab & Aquarium on Tuesday, Jan. 29 from 6-8 p.m.

Proceeds from the event will be used for repairs at the Roundhouse Aquarium, including refurbishment of the children’s area.

“The Roundhouse is an iconic symbol for Manhattan Beach and the aquarium is a hands-on facility that educates about the ocean and the environment in a fun way,” said Heidi Thompson, one of the fundraiser’s organizers. “We hope to gather about 125 people who love and want to support The Roundhouse as much as we do.”

The event is being hosted by nine supporters of The Roundhouse: Cathy Brooks, Marcie Cullen, Mike and Sandi Doell, Sue Pielert, Melanie Ransford, Beth Rivera, Steph Schaub and Thompson.

“We receive most of our funding through donations and grants,” said Valerie Hill, the aquarium's administrative director/educational co-director. “We are extremely pleased that this group of dedicated Manhattan Beach residents has decided to put on this fundraiser for us. It is this type of support that enables us to continue our activities.”

The Roundhouse, located at the end of the Manhattan Beach Pier, is open to the public free-of-charge from 3 p.m. to sunset on weekdays and 10 a.m. to sunset on weekends.

During the weekday mornings and early afternoons, staff members teach classes to school children who visit from throughout Los Angeles County. The aquarium also operates a robust volunteer program, with many local high school students opting to participate.

The Strand House is at 117 Manhattan Beach Boulevard. Tickets are $80 and include two drinks and The Strand House’s signature appetizers.

For tickets and information, go to www.roundhouseaquarium.org.