This spring, two lucky groups of donors and their guests were treated to unforgettable kayaking adventures on the bay with Sea Trek – exploring Angel Island from a rarely seen vantage point – sea level.

The groups, fortunate enough to visit the island during a rare break in this year’s never-ending winter, were amongst bidders at AIA’s annual Angel Lights Countdown Benefit.  Donor Deni Chambers hosted a group of adults and kids celebrating a very special birthday for a very special eight year old.  And, Annie Notthoff and Leslie Friedman-Johnson, whose trip was made possible due to their own generosity and the generosity of Donna Huggins, one of the high bidders at AIA’s Countdown Benefit , came out with friends and family to celebrate Mother’s Day in a very unique fashion.

The day started with a cruise to the island on the  Angel Island – Tiburon Ferry followed by a lesson in the physics of kayak management from the Sea Trek guides. Everyone then headed into the water to explore Ayala Cove and the beauty of the surrounding shores of Angel Island. Upon returning to the island the groups enjoyed unparalleled views of Ayala Cove and a delicious alfresco lunch prepared by chefs Joe Gozzi and Betsy Clendenen along with fine wines provided by AIA’s vintner donors.

If this sounds like a special day you would like to share with friends and family, don’t miss our 6th annual Angel Lights Countdown Benefit where you will have the rare opportunity to bid on special one-of-a-kind experiences, just like this one. This year’s Countdown Benefit will be held on December 1, 2011 at the Corinthian Yacht Club in Tiburon.  It’s not too early to mark your calendar!

Our auction bidders are fantastic, but we don’t want to overlook the generous sponsors whose donations made these excursions possible.  Our good friends at Sea Trek, Steve Hayward and Mitch Powers, who organized the trips and staff to make these events so special. It’s not an easy feat to tow kayaks across Raccoon Strait, so we really appreciate their expertise and enthusiasm! Joe Gozzi from Village Harvest and fabulous pastry chef Betsy Clendenen complimented the special day by catering the delicious lunch in the Cove.  And, of course, Maggie McDonogh, owner of the Angel Island – Tiburon Ferry. Our heartfelt thanks go out to all of our generous donors!