The Santa Monica Pier and The Lobster Team Up to Launch eBay Auction to Benefit Special Olympics Southern California The charity auction includes dinner
for six at The Lobster before the fireworks show and an exclusive VIP viewing area so that the auction winner and guests can enjoy the historic landmark centennial event from one of the best views in Santa Monica. As part of the once-in-a-lifetime package, Olympic Decathlon Gold Medalist Rafer Johnson, will meet and greet the auction winner to personally express gratitude for the charitable contribution to Special Olympics Southern California. Also included are six general admission tickets to the 13th annual Pier del Sol event on October 4, 2009, which features a day of free rides at Santa Monica Pier’s Pacific Park, arcade tickets and lunch. The Los Angeles Lakers will be honored at Pier del Sol, represented by Lakers legends, such as James Worthy. The “Birthday Bash” will also include Special Olympics athletes and celebrities on the Pier to celebrate 40 years of the transformative work of Special Olympics Southern California. “Eunice Kennedy Shriver’s visionary movement, Special Olympics, has reached an important milestone in Southern California this year with its 40th anniversary celebration. It is meaningful that we share this significant observance with the Santa Monica Pier as it celebrates its 100th anniversary,” said Bill Shumard, President/CEO for Special Olympics Southern California. “The Pier’s centennial auction is a wonderful contribution to our ongoing efforts to change lives through the power of sport.” Ben Franz-Knight, executive director of the Santa Monica Pier Restoration Corporation, said regarding the auction, “The Santa Monica Pier’s Centennial is a time to celebrate the Pier’s own history, but it is also important to recognize other Southern California leaders who are reaching milestones. As Special Olympics reaches its 40th year we want to highlight the crucial work that they have done for the community and nation as a whole.” The charity auction will be live on eBay until 8/30/09 when the winner will be announced. About the Santa Monica Pier Restoration Corporation
The Santa Monica Pier Restoration Corporation (SMPRC), established in 1983, is a non-profit, public benefit corporation made up of business and community leaders who represent the full range of community interests. It was created by the Santa Monica City Council to preserve and enhance the pleasure pier experience for people of all ages and for future generations and is funded by the City of Santa Monica. For more information, visit, .