This year's Blakely Rock Regatta on April 1, organized by the Sloop Tavern Yacht Club will benefit the Steve Molnes Helping Hand Fund at Ballard High School.
Now in its 25th year, the regatta raises money for local causes. Projects like the Ballard High School library book drive and groups like the Ballard Food Bank have received the proceeds from the race in the past. Proceeds have totaled up to $8,000 from previous races.
As a teacher, Molnes went out of his way to help his special education students. He passed away in September and was missed very much by students, friends and relatives.
During a packed memorial service, some people decided to start the Steve Molnes Helping Fund to assist special needs kids in buying books, supplies, clothing and going on field trips.
Molnes himself was a member of the Ballard High School Class of 1971 and returned to teach.
Ballard High School Principal Phil Brockman said Molnes had a special passion for his students.
Laurie Turay, a member of the Sloop Tavern Yacht Club knew Molnes. Her son Taylor was one of his students.
"My son had him for a teacher and a counselor. He was an awesome man," said Turay.
Molnes had a profound affect on his students. Turay told the News-Tribune in September that her son thought he was the best teacher he ever had.
In a letter to the Sloop Tavern Yacht Club, Brockman described Molnes as a special person who decided to give back to his school by teaching in a program for its most challenged students.
The Sloop Tavern Yacht Club, is celebrating it's 30th anniversary and has 100 members who pay registration fees to enter the regatta.
The day begins with volunteers helping out at a breakfast at the Sloop Tavern on Northwest Market Street. The food is donated by owner Charlie Files. Monies from the breakfast are also donated to the Steve Molnes Helping Hand Fund. In addition, a raffle will be held to solicit contributions from the community.
"We look at where to put the money to good use. He (Molnes) touched the Ballard area and helped special needs kids," said Turay.
Molnes was especially fond of helping his students, giving them lunch money when they needed it or giving them that extra push to make it through school.
Registration is due on March 29 at the Sloop Tavern Yacht Club, 2830 N.W. Market St., Seattle, WA 98107. Call 779-6110.
