Manhattan Beach: Raise Funds For Roundhouse Aquarium Teaching

Photo courtesy of Jefferson Graham, whose Manhattan Beach prints are available for sale here: https://www.jeffersongraham.net/Prints-for-sale/Prints-for-sale/

MANHATTAN BEACH, CA — The Roundhouse Aquarium is in need of critical funds to support its education programs on marine science. COVID-19 has left the popular attraction and its teaching outreach minus the funds it would normally raise in a normal year. But nothing's been normal this year.

You can help by participating in a virtual holiday lights contest for businesses and residences or by voting online for the submissions in the contest. "Light Up the Beach Cities" is open to all who want to submit entires and/or vote and with just 12 entries so far, your chances of winning a prize have good odds.

The deadline for submissions has been moved to Friday, Dec. 11 at 5 p.m. so get out there and get decorating [or taking photos of what you've already done!]! Residents and businesses may participate by paying a $30 fee, completing an online application and submitting a photo to enter their holiday decorating handiwork. Information, instructions and an application may be found online on the Roundhouse Aquarium website.

And, if you don't have a submission, simply enjoy checking them out online and voting, which is another way to raise funds for the aquarium's teaching programs. Online voting begins on Sunday, Dec. 13 and lasts through Saturday, Dec. 19. A $10 donation is requested to cast a vote. Winners will be announced on Monday, Dec. 21.

"In this extraordinary year, we wanted to find a safe way to celebrate the holidays where the community could also come together to support the Roundhouse Aquarium," said Grace Adams, OTS executive director. "We hope to be able to continue and expand our education programs on ocean science into 2021 and beyond. We need the community's help to ensure that programs that inspire people of all ages to care for the oceans, tidelands and beaches continue.

"OTS [Oceanographic Teaching Stations, Inc., which manages and operates the Roundhouse Aquarium] pivoted its operations to convert our in-person programs at the Roundhouse Aquarium to virtual classes and distance learning initiatives to meet the needs of students and teachers who are learning and teaching from home. There is a continued need for our programs, whether they are in-person or virtual. We certainly hope to welcome everyone back to the Roundhouse once restrictions are lifted, but until then we are ready to continue serving students and our community through our distance learning initiatives," she added.

Sponsored by Edison International, all proceeds from the "Light Up the Beach Cities" fundraiser will support OTS' science-based education programs on the ocean, tidelands and beaches.

Prizes will be awarded to the "Best" in each of the following entry categories:

• Magical Winterland – Best at bringing the winter spirit to SoCal
• Holiday Whimsy – Brings laughter, humor and whimsical vibes
• Let It Sparkle – Best use of lights
• Jingle Jangle Wheels – Best and most festive vehicle (golf cart, car, any vehicle)
• Merry and Bright Business – Best overall business
• Holly Jolly Residence – Best overall residence

For more information, please call (310) 938-2682 or email Grace Adams at grace@roundhouseaquarium.org.

Residents and businesses in other Southern California communities are also invited to participate so spread the word.