For Immediate Release
August 8, 2002
Great Photo Ops!

OAKLAND, Calif - The Port of Oakland in partnership with West Oakland Neighbors is bringing together employees, interns and neighborhood youth to participate in the California International Dragon Boat Festival. The annual festival will be held this Saturday and Sunday, August 10 and 11 at Jack London Square from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.

“The Port is proud to be a part of this collaboration. We are delighted to make it possible for our young West Oakland neighbors to participate in this fun, sporting event," said Port of Oakland Executive Director Tay Yoshitani.

About 15 West Oakland youth will paddle for the PortWest Dragons this weekend. “This is a wonderful opportunity for the youth of West Oakland,” said Willie Keyes, chairman of West Oakland Neighbors. “Many of the kids have never even been on a boat. It brings them to a different environment and teaches them new skills and teamwork.”

Willie Keyes has worked with AC Transit for transportation support to the event. A free shuttle service from the West Oakland Bart Station to Jack London Square is available this Saturday and Sunday. Please contact AC Transit at (510) 891-4700 for further details.

"This sponsorship is part of the Port's larger effort to be a good neighbor", said Port Community Relations Representative Curshanda Cusseaux. “While the Port has participated in past events, this is the first time we are entering the event in the youth category,” added Cusseaux.

Contact:
Marilyn Sandifur
Media and Public Relations Manager
(510) 627-1193
msandifur@portoakland.com

Alternate Contact:
Curshanda Cusseaux
Community Relations Representative
(510) 627-1492
ccusseaux@portoakland.com