Proceeds from event benefit Alameda Public Schools
Alameda, CA. Kayaking, canoeing, rowing, whale boating, dragon boating and more will be on deck for the public to enjoy during “Pirates in Paradise,” a fun-raising event on August 21, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, on the waterfront at Mariner Square in Alameda. Live music, food, art, entertainment and a raffle are also part of the waterfront festivities that day.
Proceeds from the event will benefit the Alameda Education Foundation, a local non-profit that supports vital programs in art, music, drama, sports and more in Alameda public schools. “This event is a great way to introduce the community to our hidden treasure – Alameda’s beautiful waterfront,” commented event organizer Deborah Wright. “Many Alamedans have no idea what sort of “fun-factor” exists in our own backyard, the incredible waterfront of the Alameda-Oakland Estuary!”
The event began simply as a fun way to raise awareness of these water-oriented activities, explained Wright, but participating organizations also wanted to do something to help Alameda’s struggling schools. “‘Pirates in Paradise’ is a way of giving back and supporting our schools,” said Anthony Lincoln of the RETROZ Band, one of the event’s sponsors and Pasta Pelican Restaurant’s Friday Night dance band. “Supporting our youth is essential to their ability to grow to becoming contributing members of our community.”
A highlight of the day will be the Alameda Fire Department and Alameda Police Department “paddling it out” in dragon boats and kayaks during a Boat Regatta. Guests can also enjoy watching Jack London Aquatic Center’s exhibition crew race. The John Beery organization will offer boat rides, AAA Premier Scuba will demonstrate scuba basics in the pool at Cardinal Point, BOARDSPORTS will demo Stand –Ups, and more!
Wright Way Insurance Agency will be giving away a free software program featuring m.i.l.k (Managing Identification for Lost Kids). Food will be provided by the Pasta Pelican Restaurant, Music by RETROZ Band, and entertainment by Hoop Party. The Frank Bette Center for the Arts will have local artists’ exhibits on display. A raffle will feature prizes ranging from Margaret Fago prints to a 16’ Hobie Cat.
Alameda Education Foundation President Bill Sonneman commended the businesses’ involvement in helping public schools. “Our schools are in a difficult position these days due to the drastic budget cuts from the State,” said Sonneman. “It really is up to the community to ensure that quality education continues in Alameda, and we are thrilled to have the support of so many waterfront and West End businesses to make that happen.”
The Alameda Education Foundation has supported Alameda’s public schools since 1982. Programs include after-school sports for Alameda’s public middle school students; after-school enrichment classes for elementary school students; Adopt-A-Classroom that provides $500 mini-grants for classrooms; art, music and drama support. and a Teacher Supply Store that provides materials and supplies for Alameda teachers.
“Pirates in Paradise” is sponsored by John Beery Yachts, Pasta Pelican Restaurant, and Wright Way Insurance. Other sponsors include: Encinal Yacht Club Jr. Sailing Program, Jack London Aquatic Center, West Alameda Business Association, Metropolitan Yacht Club at Mariner Square, AAA Premier Scuba, East Bay Regional Park District, Club Nautique, Cardinal Point, Marina Village Yacht Harbor, Margaret Fago, Hoop Party, Fast Imaging Center, Alameda Boys & Girls Club, Frank Bette Center for the Arts, Alameda Recreation and Parks Department, and Bladium Sports and Fitness Club.
The event will be held in front of Pasta Pelican Restaurant, 2455 Mariner Square Drive, Alameda. A suggested donation to the Alameda Education Foundation of $10 for adults and $5 for children at the event will let people into the Boat Regatta. Friday night will kick off the weekend with a party at The Pirate’s Lair upstairs at The Pasta Pelican beginning at 5:30 p.m. Live music, dancing and no host cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.
More information on Pirates in Paradise AEF may be found at: www.AlamedaEducation.org (see “events” under “ways to give.”) or by calling Deborah Wright at 510-908-3939. Teams that wish to enter the Regatta should contact Deborah for more information.
