The Turlock Police Activities League certainly isn't crabby about the amount raised during its second annual All-You-Can-Eat Crab Feed last month.
The event more than tripled the fundraising achieved in year one.
“We were able to donate $10,000 to PAL this year,” said co-sponsor and emcee for the night, Mike Reilly. “We donated about $2,200 last year.”
Reilly also said that with approximately 250 tickets sold, the event was sold out this year. He, and co-sponsors, attributed the success to the party-like atmosphere of the event.
“It was more than just coming to eat crab and then go home,” said Larry Reed, an event co-sponsor. “It was a lot of fun…It’s a good thing, and it’s generating good money for a good cause.”
Jeff Jensen, who also co-sponsored the event, said that after attending the crab feed last year and enjoying it so much, he asked to be involved this year.
“It’s a good crowd of people and a real good time with good dj entertainment, and I really enjoyed it,” Jensen said.
More than the fun, the event was extremely profitable. Ultimately, a check for $10,028.32 was presented to City of Turlock Parks, Recreation and Public Facilities Superintendent Erik Schulze and Police Chief Rob Jackson .
“It was a huge event,” Schulze said. “The funds raised are going to support the Marty Yerby Summer Camp, which costs about $14,000 to run each year, so this definitely helps offset those costs.”
Those proceeds were made possibly by sponsors Reed Realty, FirstCal Mortgage and Jeff Jensen Appraisal. Staley’s Club also provided donated beverages for the event, including free service. Staley’s donation alone raised approximately $2,000. A mobile wedding dj from Pleasanton had great music all night.
Schulze thanked the committee that helped bring the event together, and all of the sponsors involved on behalf of the Turlock Police Activities League.
“It’s a great event, and it’s very important as it helps us run some of the programs we hold on the west side, and we would struggle to run those programs without it.
“It’s a big help, and I’m sure the kids will enjoy it,” said Schulze.
While Reed said the event will probably not expand in size next year, it will most likely sell out again and prove to be just as successful as this year.
“The plan is to get a few more auction and raffle items, but probably not more tickets,” Reed said.
“I suggest that everyone gets tickets early next year,” Reilly said. “It will be sold out again.”
Turlock PAL is a non-profit organization, focused on building a constructive relationship between law enforcement, youth, and the citizens of Turlock, and developing youth into responsible, mature citizens.
