May 18, hundreds will gather at the fourth annual Bald Eagle Bash to “party for preservation,” raising funds for the Weeks Bay Foundation, which supports the Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve's goals and programs and assists in acquiring new lands for the reserve.

The nonprofit foundation began in 1990 and is an accredited land trust, meaning it means national standards for the policies it uses to protect the land.

“We protect coastal lands that in turn, support clean water for boating and fishing and preserve habitat for wildlife and fish,” said Foundation President Rick Wallace. “And at the same time, we support the education and research activities at the reserve.”

The Bald Eagle Bash is the Foundation's largest fundraiser, and last year, more than 900 people attended.

The bash features Alabama wild caught shrimp that will be cooked by staff from participating local restaurants. Live music will be provided by Rollin' in the Hay. Tickets may be purchased at the Foundation office on U.S. 98 in Fairhope or on the event's website, www.BaldEagleBash.com.

Event profile

• WHAT: Bald Eagle Bash
• WHEN: May 18, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
• WHERE: Tonsmeire Weeks Bay Resource Center at the Fish River Bridge on U.S. 98, Fairhope
• WHY: To raise funds for the Weeks Bay Foundation
• COST: $35 per ticket in advance, $40 at the door ($25 of ticket price is a tax deductible donation), kids 10 and under free  

The Weeks Bay Reserve

• 6,525 acres

• Provides habitat for wildlife

• Educational programs for school-aged children

• Nursery area for fish, shrimp and crabs

• Clean water for recreation

• Pitcher plant bog

Participating Restaurants 

• Big Daddy's Grill

• Blue Marlin Restaurant

• Bluegill Restaurant

• Camellia Café

• Cobalt

• Dragonfly Food Bar

• Jesse's Restaurant

• Locals

• Lulu's at Homeport Marina

• Old 27 Grill

• Pelican Patio

• Pinzone's Italian Downtown

• Sweet Olive