ORANGE BEACH, Ala. — Wintzell’s Oyster House in Orange Beach opened their doors on Dec. 27 to a large crowd of enthusiastic art patrons.

All ticket proceeds were donated by the owners of Wintzell’s to the Orange Beach Arts Center’s children’s programs. Those programs include  the Children’s Summer Arts Camp, field trips, the After School Art Program (ASAP) and the Children’s Art Alley at the Orange Beach Festival of Art to be held March 13 and 14.

Wintzell’s has long been a supporter of child advocacy charity events and community-based programs.

The private opening at the Orange Beach location generated over $8,000 for programs of the Orange Beach Art Center, and has been earmarked for children’s activities.

“We cannot thank them enough,” said Wanda Price, OBAC director. “This is a wonderful gift at a time when it is truly needed. The OBAC’s commitment to educational opportunities for children is a very important part of our mission.”

The newest children’s program at the Arts Center is ASAP, a full- or part-time after-school program that immerses children in all of the arts.

Price went on to say that the Orange Beach Arts Center is in need of volunteers for all programs and encourages a visit to the center’s Web site at www.orangebeachartcenter.com.

To become a Friend of the Arts, click on “Be a Friend” for details.

The Orange Beach Arts Center is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., at 26389 Canal Road.