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Berlin, Ocean Pines News Worcester County Bayside Gazette Logo Berlin, Ocean Pines News Worcester County Bayside Gazette

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Ayers Creek ‘Pink Paddle’ outdoor fundraising event

BERLIN — In support of breast cancer awareness, Ayers Creek Adventures off Grey Fox Lane will hold its third annual Pink Paddle fundraiser on Saturday, Sept. 29.
"I use the event as an opportunity to remind all women, and men, to practice preventative measures by leading a healthy lifestyle and to ensure they are regularly screened," said Suzy Taylor, who owns Ayers Creek Adventures with her husband, Steven.
Those who wish to participate in a day of creek paddling, games and music must make a donation. All proceeds will be split between nonprofit breast cancer organizations Susan G. Komen for the Cure and Women Supporting Women.
For a single kayak, a $50 donation is required. Two-person kayaks and canoes are each available through an $80 donation.
Supporters of breast cancer awareness who already have their own kayak or canoe are allowed to bring their vessel, but must pay a $40 donation.
All kayaks and canoes being used on that day have to be registered with Ayers Creek Adventures before the morning paddle, which can be done by calling 443-513-0889 or sending an email to info@ayerscreekadventures.com.
To give donors as much time to register as possible, pre-registration will also take place at the location on Saturday from 8:30-9:30 a.m. Even those coming in a little later than the designated end of registration will be welcome to join the event.
Pink Paddle will officially begin after pre-registration with a paddle through the marshes of Ayers Creek.
"The scenery, tranquility and wildlife make this creek a wonderful location to calm yourself over the weekend," Steven said.
Staring at 11:30 a.m., the Post Paddle Party will feature food donated by Baked Desserts Cafe and J&J’s Pizzeria, music from local musician Troy Mawyer and contests until the day’s end at 2 p.m.
Attendees are encouraged to wear their most unique pink outfit, as a "Pretty in Pink" prize will be given to the best dresser.
A prize will also be awarded to the winner of the great cancer trivia competition.
As participants can donate as much money as they see fit, the top philanthropist will receive a prize for his or her efforts.
Ayers Creek Adventures is still receiving prize donations from Berlin businesses, so the actual rewards are not yet finalized.
One guaranteed prize, however, is a pink kayak than can be won through a raffle.
Tickets can be purchased for $5 each from now, until the drawing on Saturday at Ayers Creek Adventures, Baked Desserts Cafe on Bay Street, Bruder Hill on Commerce Street and Women Supporting Women on Old Ocean City Boulevard.
The raffle winner does not need to be present at the drawing to win.
All participants will receive a goody bag of other gifts donated from local businesses and a Pink Paddle T-shirt.
If anyone wishes to skip the morning paddle, but attend the post paddle party, a $15 donation is required for adults, $5 for children aged 5-12 and children younger than 5 years old are free.
Even when the event is over, $10 per hour kayak and canoe rentals will be added to the day’s donations.
Ayers Creek Adventures will also accept donations throughout October, the month recognized as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Suzy has supported breast cancer organizations for years in memory of her mother and aunt, both of whom lost their battle with the disease.
"My mother went through therapy for three years and set an example of strength and love that I have carried throughout my life," Suzy said.
Giving advice to those with close friends or family in similar situations, Suzy said it is important to remain positive and strong at all times.
"Do whatever you can to support the person you love as they go through their battle," she said.
For more information on Pink Paddle, visit www.ayerscreekadventures.com.