Pelican Breeze needs some help

Published 8:18 am Thursday, March 10, 2011

Where are we going? My husband and I have been involved with the Pelican Breeze for the past seven years. He as a captain and me as a first mate/narrator/server. It has been a wonderful experience. We have met amazing people and have hosted many private parties as well as public cruises.

Albert Lea Lake is a landmark in Albert Lea that is often underappreciated. It is naturally beautiful, and there have been many events and businesses along and around the lake over the years of its existence. This is all brought out in a narration of history, composed originally by Roger Lonning. An hour and a half is almost too short of time to really become exhilarated by the aura of nature. Al Batt (humorist/naturalist) entertains cruises with an immense amount of information. We also have Dave Courey singing the best of John Denver. All the first mates serve snacks and beverages. Cruises are available for you to celebrate that special occasion, (birthdays, anniversaries, class reunions, etc.). You are welcome to have food of your choice catered in.

You may ask where this is all going? Well, since 1997, (when the original Pelican Breeze came to us) we have grown in popularity, but decreased in staff who actually run the board and sail the ship, (so to say). We run three public cruises per week, Friday pizza and Saturday/Sunday afternoon cruises. Occasionally we have one to three private cruises throughout the week.

Email newsletter signup

As you can see there is a time commitment. Unfortunately, we have payments to make, insurance/licenses to pay and upkeep to maintain the boat. At this time we only have a few people to get all this accomplished. The inability to do this may cause the Pelican Breeze II to shut down. This brings us to our plea. If we were to have several more captains and first mates the commitment would only be minimal — one week per month June through August and possibly assisting in a fundraiser once or twice a year.

We are having an informational meeting on March 16 at the Albert Lea City Hall multipurpose room, 6:30 p.m. We invite all men and women, 18 years and older, to come and check it out. It might just be that summer escape or experience you have been looking for.

Cheryl Page

Albert Lea