One of the many advantages of living in the island paradise of Key West is the ability to explore the rest of the Keys and participate in a wide variety of entertaining activities. Marathon is home to one of the prettiest beaches in the Keys; located two miles off the beaten path of Highway One, it lends itself to a more relaxed, exotic feel – that is, unless you are there for the annual Battle in the Bay Dragon Boat Festival.
If you are a local here in the Keys, you are likely already familiar with the Dragon Boat Festival. This year, the 4th Annual Battle In The Bay Dragon Boat Festival is being held on May 12. This is an action-packed racing event that features the only beach-launch boat race of its kind and takes place along a nearly 400-meter course parallel to Sombrero Beach.
Each year, every dragon boat team is encouraged to gather pledges for their favorite charity; to date, 17 different charities have been recipients of team pledges totaling $40,000.
What you may not know is that this year’s event will include a great new fundraiser featuring pink Solo cups and Toby Keith, in collaboration with the Cancer Foundation of the Florida Keys. Participants can help raise money for this great cause in exchange for the chance to win memorabilia signed by Toby Keith.
In what began as a joke during a toast by the festival’s operations manager has now turned into an awesome fundraiser. Using the hit single “Red Solo Cup” by Toby Keith, the Solo Cup Company has generously provided race organizers with 500 pink Solo cups to be used for this fundraiser. In addition, TKO Artist Management in Nashville, Tennessee has contributed a memorabilia trio to be used as the fundraiser prize.
You can purchase your pink Solo cup for a minimum contribution of $20. The cup will hold a beverage of your choice on the day of the race and also serves as your entry into the contest. The prize includes a greatest hits CD, photo, and pink Solo cup – all signed by Toby Keith.
Simply visit the Cancer Foundation’s booth on race day to purchase your cup. The Cancer Foundation of the Florida Keys is a nonprofit organization that offers financial assistance to local Florida Keys cancer patients undergoing treatment. Bring the whole family to support this important charity and enjoy the excitement of the Dragon Boat Festival on May 14.
The people of Key West create a supportive community full of fun, commitment, and charity. When you live in a beautiful island paradise, it is easy to be appreciative; we all work together to help all those in need and to preserve our history for the enjoyment of future generations. I have been helping people join this community for over 25 years, and I never tire of hearing cheerful stories from those who have found their warm and supportive home in Key West. Contact me today online at Margarita Villoch, by phone at 305-304-8505, by email at margarita@isellkw.com, or visit me on the web and become part of the Key West spirit!
** Photo courtesy Florida Keys Keynoter, Brewster Rhodes, Deborah Lynn Cabinum, Mary Beth Martel and Barbie Wilson
Comments(2)