SEATTLE -- A popular Seafair tradition is in unchartered waters. Due to the economy, the pirates landing at Alki Beach is in trouble. But a community effort is under way to help rescue the event.
The pirates' storming of Alki Beach is a beloved Seafair tradition, but the pirates who put on the landing say it is expensive. The pirates have lost two major sponsors due to the economy, leaving a deficit of about $20,000 for the 50 swashbucklers.
And time is running out - the pirates' landing at Alki Beach is about two weeks away. Without the money, the volunteer Seafair pirates will have to pay it out of their pockets or, worst case scenario, cancel the landing.
"We consider this a very important event for the community celebration of Seafair. We'd like to think this is a part of the kickoff for the entire Seafair celebration, which is a large community event," said Rusty Harper, volunteer Seafair pirate.
Now, the community is rallying to help the pirates raise money to save the event.
"We just can't have that," said Duke Moscrip of Duke's Chowder House. "It's not a lot of money and if everyone would just chip in a little bit, it won't hurt. We don't want this event compromised in any way."
Earlier in this year, when the Seafair hydroplane races were almost canceled, Duke's Chowder House stepped in and helped out. On Thursday, Duke Moscrip handed a check for a $1,000 to the pirates and has set up a website where people can make a donation.
If you'd like to make a donation to rescue the Seafair pirates, CLICK HERE.
Another reason why this year is so important to the pirates is they plan to make a couple of kids' "Make-a-Wish" dreams come true.
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