One word could make your order count for Paloma.

Unfortunately, it isn’t “please.”

Paloma Elementary PTO is holding a dine-out fundraiser at Bubble Tea San Marcos on Tuesday, October 20, from 2–9 p.m.

Mention “Paloma” on dine-in and takeout orders, and the event flyer says 18% of food sales will be donated to the school.

The shop is at 677 S. Rancho Santa Fe Road.

That’s the reminder. Now for the part that required opening a newspaper from 2001.

A Student Connection, Saved in Print

Nearly 25 years ago, CSUSM’s student newspaper, The Pride, featured Bubble Tea in its November 13, 2001, edition.

Constance Chua’s article, “The Latest Craze in San Marcos: Bubble Tea,” described the business attracting university students and local high school students.

It identified James Wu as the owner at the time and placed the shop in the Vons shopping center across from San Marcos High School.

The restaurant’s current website traces its San Marcos roots to the Wu family in 2001. The archived article independently documents the business and its student connection that year.

An ordinary fundraiser flyer led to a small piece of San Marcos history. That’s a decent return before anybody orders.

The archive does not establish uninterrupted operation or unchanged ownership. It does show that this business was on local students’ radar nearly a quarter-century ago.

What Paloma’s PTO Supports

The October 20 event belongs to a recurring dine-out program.

Paloma PTO says it partners with local eateries during the school year, arranging designated hours when a percentage of participating sales returns to the school.

Its general funding priorities include the Garden, Art Cart, teacher mini-grants, playground support, and PE and music equipment.

The public flyer does not identify a specific purchase or program receiving Tuesday’s proceeds.

So there’s no verified promise of new paintbrushes, playground equipment or garden supplies from this particular evening.

Those examples describe the PTO’s broader work.

The organization describes itself as fully volunteer-driven. Dine-outs give supporters another way to participate while purchasing from a local business.

Before You Order, Ask What Counts

The flyer’s wording matters: 18% of “food sales.”

Does that include the bubble tea?

The flyer doesn’t say. Check before assuming the drink—or your entire order—qualifies.

The restaurant’s general website advertises 20% of fundraiser proceeds. Paloma’s specific flyer states 18% of food sales. The reason for the difference remains unconfirmed.

For Tuesday’s published terms, follow the event flyer.

Online-order participation also needs direct confirmation. Bubble Tea lists 760-736-8899; the PTO’s dine-out contact is fundraising@palomapto.org.

Order within the fundraiser hours, mention Paloma and check eligibility. Your good intentions deserve to make it onto the qualifying receipt.

Questions Before You Go:

When is the fundraiser?

Tuesday, October 20, 2026, from 2–9 p.m.

Where is Bubble Tea San Marcos?

677 S. Rancho Santa Fe Road.

How do customers support Paloma?

Mention Paloma on dine-in and takeout orders. The flyer states 18% of food sales will be donated.

Do drinks and online orders qualify?

Those details remain unconfirmed. Ask the restaurant before ordering.