The Pelican Breeze Foundation has expressed its thanks for the grant the organization received from the Roland Hanson and Kay L. Hanson Foundation Fund of the Freeborn County Community Foundation.

The grant was given for the purpose of the Float the Boat project. The project is intended to provide an opportunity for people of all ages to tour Albert Lea Lake regardless of handicaps. In addition, first mates provide a narrative background giving educational information on the environment and history of the lake.

This past year the Pelican Breeze celebrated its 20th year. Twenty-one public cruises and 20 private cruises were made. Passengers included many from area nursing homes and handicapped groups that would not otherwise have been able to tour the lake. The over 1,000 passengers also included people from several other states and countries.

This past summer the Pelican Breeze was given the opportunity to participate in several community events. The organization was then able to provide rides at lower special rates to allow additional people to ride the Pelican Breeze II. The season was also extended to include fall cruises. 

According to a press release, the organization plans to participate in even more community events. The grant will allow them to do so and will also allow the group to continue the low cost structure to the public.