Paint the Park Purple raises $19,000

University of Washington Tacoma’s recent Paint the Park Purple fundraiser generated more than $19,000 for scholarships.

The July 30 event at Cheney Stadium in Tacoma drew more than 565 Husky supporters as the Tacoma Rainiers beat the Las Vegas 51s by a score of 12 to 1.

More than half of the Husky supporters bought a $35 ticket to a special party deck, where they could mingle and eat their fill of hamburgers, hot dogs and drinks.

Tickets to the party deck, which was 50 percent larger than last year’s deck, sold out. Other UW Tacoma supporters bought specially designated tickets to sit in the stands.

In addition, Husky fans bought commemorative event T-shirts and bid during silent and live auctions on Paint the Park Purple jerseys worn by Rainiers players.

The third annual event netted $19,236. Proceeds will go directly toward scholarships for UW Tacoma students.

Josh Knudson, UW Tacoma vice chancellor for advancement, said he was pleased with the event’s success.

“What could be more wonderful than seeing a community come out to support UW Tacoma students while enjoying a home team game,” Knudson said.