Los Angeles Fundraising Night - Details
Los Angeles Gathering Information:
A presentation of Zac's trip and a fund raiser for his adventures will be held on Sunday Oct. 26 from 3 to 6 pm at The Organic Panificio waterfront restaurant located at 4211 Admiralty Way (at the corner of Palawan Way) in Marina del Rey. Laurence & Marianne Sunderland, Zac's parents, will provide an update on his trip, including on the water action video shots of his adventures at sea and a computer video presentation of his planned route. The afternoon will include a question and answer session and a silent auction of donated products and services. During the event, Marianne and Laurence will attempt to contact Zac directly at sea via satellite phone for an additional on-the-spot update. Light appetizers will be served and a "cash bar" will be available.
As space is limited, reservations are required by October 20th, and we strongly advise pre-paid reservations. Cost for the event is $20 pre-paid for adults ($27 at the door), and $10 for children 12 and under (pre-paid or at the door). To pre-pay for reservations by credit card, go to Zac's website at http://www.zacsunderland.com/, click on "Store" and follow the prompts. For additional reservations or information, send an e-mail to Marilyn at mgsimcox@yahoo.com or phone (818) 703-1154. Become another proud member of the "Zac Pac". We hope you will stay for dinner after the event and enjoy more time with your new Zac Pac blogger friends. (Not included.) Please RSVP before October 20th.
Raffle tickets will be sold for door prizes and we will have a silent auction, so please contact Bill Mann to donate an item for the auction (bill@barstools4u.com). Those of you who are not geographically close, and are not able to attend the event can help out by sending auction items. We don't have much time, so please contact Bill as soon as possible.
Look forward to seeing you there!
Team Zac
A presentation of Zac's trip and a fund raiser for his adventures will be held on Sunday Oct. 26 from 3 to 6 pm at The Organic Panificio waterfront restaurant located at 4211 Admiralty Way (at the corner of Palawan Way) in Marina del Rey. Laurence & Marianne Sunderland, Zac's parents, will provide an update on his trip, including on the water action video shots of his adventures at sea and a computer video presentation of his planned route. The afternoon will include a question and answer session and a silent auction of donated products and services. During the event, Marianne and Laurence will attempt to contact Zac directly at sea via satellite phone for an additional on-the-spot update. Light appetizers will be served and a "cash bar" will be available.
As space is limited, reservations are required by October 20th, and we strongly advise pre-paid reservations. Cost for the event is $20 pre-paid for adults ($27 at the door), and $10 for children 12 and under (pre-paid or at the door). To pre-pay for reservations by credit card, go to Zac's website at http://www.zacsunderland.com/, click on "Store" and follow the prompts. For additional reservations or information, send an e-mail to Marilyn at mgsimcox@yahoo.com or phone (818) 703-1154. Become another proud member of the "Zac Pac". We hope you will stay for dinner after the event and enjoy more time with your new Zac Pac blogger friends. (Not included.) Please RSVP before October 20th.
Raffle tickets will be sold for door prizes and we will have a silent auction, so please contact Bill Mann to donate an item for the auction (bill@barstools4u.com). Those of you who are not geographically close, and are not able to attend the event can help out by sending auction items. We don't have much time, so please contact Bill as soon as possible.
Look forward to seeing you there!
Team Zac
posted by Zac at
4:50 PM
70 Comments:
It might be a good idea to tell the public what you are raising the money for. Now days, people want to know how there money helps.
Please be specific.
Thank you.
I think that it is to help support Zac during his trip. There is a way to contact them on the homepage. I forget how though.
We are raising money for Zac Sunderland. I'm pretty sure that, uh, no one is unclear on that point.
Specifically, it means that we are fundraising for anything and everything that Zac and his family decides they need.
Now, visit Zac's website and kick down a few bucks!
Troy
Zac,
Can you find any constillations? I try but all the stars say is
"smuge".
If I lived in the Los Angeles area I would be there, but unfortunately I'm land locked.
It would be fun to see the video though, is there anywhere else it will be available?
I have posted a link to your blog from mine and have been telling others about your trip, good luck!
Looking forward to the Fundraising Night. Thanks so much for all that you do!
Blessings,
Jennifer
Sherman Oaks, CA
WAIT, this isn't for Zac's lifelong dream of being part of TEAM USA's Olympic Bobsledding Team?
Rock On Zac
Hi Marianne and Laurence,
I am a journalist from Perth, Western Australia, writing a piece on Zac's pirate encounter. I would love to have a chat with yourselves or Zac (if possible??). It's about 7.30pm your time (10.30am our time at the moment). If you get this message in the next few hours, either contact me on prefix Australia ++ (08)9482 3362, or email me your number on michael.bennett@wanews.com.au and I will give you a call.
Hoping to hear from you.
Thanks,
Mike.
Hello Everyone,
I'm glad to see all the details of the Fund Raising Event that will be hosted in MDR. I already purchased my tickets. I'm currently working on sending all my friends a email inviting them to this great event. After I'm done I'll post my email invitation here so hopefully other local Southern California Zac-Packers will also do the same.
I wanted to say Thank You to everyone behind the scenes doing all this work to make the Fund Raising Event actually happen. I know this takes a lot of planning and takes so many hours to actually put this all together.
Thanks to Everyone Involved,
Douglas Pistone
MDR, California
seeing as zac has sponsers and the wind is free. What is the money for? i dont want to sound rude but i am trying to figure this out.
he has food yes but he would have that any where. plus he will be writing a book and possibly a movie. won he earn money from that? so will that money go to charity?
Hmm, I'd like to attend the meet, greet & eat, but live too far away to travel there.
May I suggest the following:
- everyone donates, say $75, so the Meet, Greet & Eat is able to come to us far away OR
- someone record it (good sound, cool photography, great video) & offer us the opportunity to "donate/pay" for the opportunity to view it after the fact.
Of the two & knowing the cost of travel, hotels & booking a small convention center..., seems the 2nd option is the better of the 2.
None the less, if you're local to the event, REGISTER NOW!, I'm told space is limited, plus IF it doesn't sell out, you'll have to pay that much more at the door!
If you can't attend the event, but still want to help out? Have an antique or collectible item? Contact Bill Mann (you know..., the guy who sells those fantastic bar stools & other decorative household metal items?). Check the blog comment posts for Mr. Mann's contact info to see how you might offer something to the silent auction (have YOU had Your long hair cut & donated to "locks for love"?).
STILL want to help out, but aren't able to do any of the above?!?
Have you TRIED clicking on DONATE? Have you checked out the new items in Zac's Store? Looking for something else, try GiftClix. All these links are to the right of Capt Zac's most recent post.
All them help support Capt Zac in his record breaking circumnavigation.
Still feel you can do something more? But just don't feel comfortable or can't seem to find what you want? The Homeschool students want to try raising funds in their own way? If the above links aren't what you're looking for or you have a better idea to help out financially, try contacting Capt Zac & Team Sunderland. Tho' I do need to caution you, they receive HUNDREDS of letters/emails & while the entire Sunderland Team is very diligent about following up on queries related to Capt Zac, it may take some time before you hear something.
http://www.zacsunderland.com/contact.html
So, click on the links provided to the right of Capt Zac's latest post & do YOUR part to help support Capt Zac's record breaking circumnavigation.
HUGS!
Tomi/ATL
PS -
While the sponsors and numerous donations are helping, they just aren't covering all the little things - stops where unexpected Intrepid repairs are needed, having customs take Capt Zac's food so he has to pay someone to help him restock, getting the electronics repaired after those mountainous swells crashed into the cockpit, fixing the damaged electronics after the invaritable leaks from a long circumnavigation dripped onto his blogging/navigation computer(s), etc., etc.
Have YOU tried traveling cross planet recently? How much are YOU paying for fuel?!? Think those port/dock charges are cheap?!? When's the last time you traveled outside your country? Have you noticed that the USA isn't the only one charging "extra" fees after 9/11?!? Number of bags, number of occupents/persons traveling, displacement tonnage, fees charged for "international trash disposal"..., it all adds up folks.
Ya gotta remember, Capt Zac is still only 16 - I don't recall seeing anywhere stating he comes from a moderately wealthy family. "Zac used the moneies he'd earned from repaiing skifs/small boats, being 'Night Capt' on vessel deliveries/transports...." He's working class just like the vast majority of all of us "just reading" the blog.
Have a Heart - help out!
T.
Bravo, Tomi! Thanks for that post. I'd love to attend also, but live too far away. Will certainly continue to contribute in other ways though. Sail on Zac!
While on the topic of $, Do you realize how much a fly over or search and rescue flight actually costs? It would pay for Zac's entire circumnavigation AND feed 100's of starving children. Each time they fly they risk their lives..
Please think of THAT next time you think of throwing the panic button.
As anyone that has ever looked at the Miriam-Webster dictionary knows, a boat is a hole in the water into which one throws money.
Zac bought this boat with his savings from working his tail off. At 16, that was a lot of work. He could have blown that money on drugs, beer, girls or movies. Instead he set a goal and worked towards it.
Fuel, maintenance, food, maintenance, phone calls, maintenance, port fees, maintenance, haircuts (strike that, he is saving money on that one), maintenance, all of this takes funds.
Nowhere in these blog posts have I ever heard anyone, either on the Sunderland side or the readers side, really pitch for funds.
I can assure everyone reading this that the idea of a fund-raiser did not come from the Sunderlands. The idea of an L.A. get together was started by the bloggers so that we locals could meet each other and put a face to the names on the blog. After all, as the haircut remark shows, there is a lot of interaction not only between Zac and the Zac Pack, but between the Zac Packers themselves.
The idea of a fund-raiser as part of the get together came from members of the Zac Pack, not Zac or the Sunderlands.
We just felt that we could show our appreciation for the enjoyment that Zac is giving us by showing some financial support to help him along on this journey, not just for him, but for us.
It would be so easy for Marianne to make this a subscription blog, as so many are, and charge us to read what Zac has to say.
She has not done that although I am one of the people that has urged her to do so.
This blog has a draw. Suspense; joy; sadness; drama and calmness. If it did not, then no one would be reading it.
So I for one do not feel that it is out of the ordinary for one to pay a bit for our entertainment. If I went to the movie theater, I doubt very much if they would let me in for free to watch something that is not half as interesting as this blog.
No one is forcing anyone to donate.
So if you feel like donating, great!!! If you do not feel like donating, then just enjoy reading what Zac and the Zac Pack has to say. No one will think any less of you for it.
However the basic question of what the funds are for is a simple question to answer. The funds are to ensure that Zac can make it around the world if he is mentally and physically able to do so.
They are not for Marianne to go out to the jewelery shop at the mall or for Laurance to go out to the bar.
You will notice that I am not ashamed to say who I am or how to contact me. I do not hide behind anonymous.
Respectfully,
Bill Mann
South Pasadena
bill@barstoos4u.com
And as Mr. Mann's comments relay, these are some of the MANY reasons "I stay tuned".
God Bless you Mr. Mann (yes, I keep me hair short - a lot cooler to live that way here in the Deep South US! Y'all com' ba'k now, ya he'r? Ah'ight!?! God bless yo' h'art, we mis'd ya las' SundA' in cherch. Yo' Sista', Betty Joe Sue du'in O'K aft'a her sextupal bi'pass? serg'r'ee?!?)
Kiddin' asid', Is why I love reading/writin' here. The 'smart' peeps who can clearly irrudiate what I feel/think (yes, I was raised m' 'hole lif' in da South - God Bless Amer'ca!!)
Seriously, never ceases to amaze me that peeps think this is a "free-ride".
Please take the time to click one of the links & help out Capt Zac.
HUGS!
Tomi/ATL
Bill,
We have anonymous bloggers?
Funny, I never noticed.
See you Sunday.
Troy Brimm
Modesto, CA
For the record, I write how I think!, Naught how'a aye taulk.
HUGS!
Tomi/ATL
This comment has been removed by the author.
Personally, I think it's a fair question to ask what donations will be used for. I wouldn't want my money to be used to purchase religious-related materials, for instance, or to pay customs fees for entry into a country I object to, such as the current regime in South Africa whose leaders have endeared themselves with the brutal dictatorship of Zimbabwe. But to buy a new charger for Zac's laptop? Sure!
I think Bill Mann needs to lighten up. After insulting several people on this board, he signed off using the word "Respectfully." This is ludicrous.
Tomi,
Yall got sum hush puppies honie chil?
Course where I grewed up, a twee grew and da goils were all Dodga fans and we went ta Ebbits Field and had Natan's hot dogs.
But my mudda tried to get me ta changea my accent when we moived ta California. Kinda like it here but da wadder aint as good as in Brooklyn. And da oith shakes a lot and dat shakin aint from no subway eider.
Everyone knows the Sunderlands had hoped for a large sponsor to come along for the journey. That obviously did not happen.
Zac's sails should have a McDonalds logo, or Sony, or Apple, or Nike, who by the way owns Hurley, who only donated clothing, no different than they do for surfers and skaters they sponsor (cheap way to get there name into an event).
We all know what is happening to this economy, and it is going to get worse before it gets better. This has got to be a continual challenge for the Sunderlands, and fundraising has to stay a focus of the whole venture.
Those of us who have grown to love and respect this family can do our part. So I am praying for a great turn out, and look forward to meeting other bloggers. Maybe we can put our heads together to search and pitch the contacts we have in our daily business.
This comment has been removed by the author.
@Marilyn,
If you are referring to me, I tried to email you directly by you don't have an email address in your profile either.
Maybe it is the time difference (I am in Turkey), maybe a partial blog was posted, I have no idea. I found the information people were asking for in various scattered places around the blog and thought I'd be helpful and include it all (along with a location map) on the TrackZac map.
You (or anyone for that matter) can easily contact us through our sailbillabong.com website feedback form. We no longer post our email via blogger.
Once again, if it was me that upset you, I apologize; I was just trying to be helpful!!
Chris
johnk,
When you decide to make a donation, or to give a homeless person a few dollars, the end use for that money is not as important as what was in your heart. You receive the blessing from the act of giving, not for what the gift is used for.
Also, Bill Mann has been a big presence and supporter, so please lay off. I see no place where he insulted anyone.
I'm 14 and planning to set the world record for around the world sailing.
My dad gave me a few thousand for a boat, so all I need now are a hundred thousand dollars in sponsors, plus a few places to stay free and get free service.
My parents like the idea cuz they don't work and if I make it they say lots of money will come in from books & movies.
I am qualified, because my parents lived on a boat cuz it is cheaper than a house so I was on a boat all my life already.
please donate lots so my dad doesn't have to find a job & get up early every day, he is used to sleeping late & hanging at the docks.
If you donate lots, I will buy a radio & be able to post a blog which I will haphazardly update when I am not too busy doing nothing, and when it gets too boring and people lose interest, I will have emergencys and post them too.
Thank you for your support!
Zac,
Almost half way! Woo-Hoo! You should be feasting your eyes on 'Land Ho' soon! I read in 'Sailing Alone,' that, Joshua Slocum, even though he was much older and seemed very content to read and read and be alone with himself, would still weep at the sight of land. I can't even imagine the loneliness that must envelope those alone at sea. I think a little 'ship mate' cat could help with that loneliness in many ways. Obviously a goat is not a good companion! :-)
A talking bird would probably be heard saying..."There's just like.....nooooo wind." Or "Where's the fish; Polly want a fishy?" Yeah, better get a cat!
Have a wonderful time on the Island of Cocos Keeling. It seems that Islanders, just as in the days of Slocum, are the friendliest people in the whole world.
To 'Team Sunderland:' Best of luck with the fund raiser. That little Intrepid is a beauty in photos, yet I know she takes a beating out there when there is plenty of wind and always plenty of salt water.
Anonymous bloggers vs. Zac Pac:
1 Corinthians 3:1 thru....
I get it...see Zac Pac fans, what lovely miss Marianne has to deal with as the blog moderator? Just pray her love for her family and children is stronger than the jealousy of others.
Thank you again for sharing this historical journey with us Zac and family.
Namaste~~
Becky in Colorado
Peter, Bill Mann has indeed insulted some people on the blog.
I have insulted those anonymous and booker t welfares who leave criticism but are too scared or too immuture to stand up and defend their remarks.
I have not insulted those who criticize and are man or woman enough to stand up and say "this is what I think and this is why I think that".
Everyone is entitled to his or her opinion. That is what makes this world so great. There are 6 billion unique individuals here. How boring this world would be if we were all the same with the same opinion.
So I would suggest that we just ignore those remarks from the anonymous and hopefully no one will reply to this post and we can get back to supporting the ideals and goals of the supporters.
I hope you notice I said the ideals and goals of the supporters, not Zac. This blog is as much about us as it is about Zac and the Sunderland clan.
As any child will do, if they do not get attention from their behavior, they will do something else.
Hopefully if we do not pay attention to the childish antics of that small minority of bloggers who need a pacifier, they will go somewhere else to get satisfaction.
Bill Mann
South Pasadena
bill@barstools4u.com
Helloooo Zac & fellow Zac Pac!
Can you smell land yet Zac?? Bet you are excited to be so close.
Wish I could attend the fundraising night, but will be there in sprit.
@ Becky in CO, lovley post, I enjoyed reading. <><
@ Glen
¡Hola! I don' t piensa que usted vio mi poste pasado a usted. Quise decir que gozo el leer de sus postes a Zac y del resto de nosotros que lo animan encendido. He estado intentando aprender español, y pensado enviaría de una nota usted para ver cómo lo hice. ¡Gracias por la lectura! ¿De dónde es usted?
Anita
Waterloo, NY
As always Zac, you are covered in prayer, God's angels are about you, be sure to be still and listen now and again,as much wisdom is gained by doing so.
Hugs,
Anita
Captain SV Wombat ~_/)
Waterloo, NY
Wow, people, come on! I think the folks who are attending the fund raiser are okay with all this. It was suggested by them after all. If you have to question what the money is for then maybe you should just not attend! I think it should be pretty self-explanatory what the money is for. You're going to have a good time, get food, socialization, etc. All that has to be paid for, too, as well as various expenses for Zac. This is not an inexpensive endeavor. The fund raiser is $25.00! Lighten up! And I do not find where Bill Mann has been out of line anywhere.
Jan from DC
Hello Zac-Pac,
I responded with my happy purchase of tickets last night. This morning I find some rather hurtful comments that really made me sad.
I wanted to send some Thank You's out for some great posts today.
@ Troy for giving clear meanings and just saying Donate. You really know what this is all about.
@ Tomi, I love the way you express yourself and I enjoy reading your post, or like today many posts.
@ Bill Mann, your a smart guy and express yourself very well. Try not to get caught up in the garbage others say. It's not worth your time or effort. I know how you feel and it make you really mad. It also makes me mad but sometimes I just hold back my words. I have also commented on the Anonymous comments of others. They are usually the people who write hurtful things and don't really know what goes on here. If they did they wouldn't be writing what they wrote!!!
@ Peter, You are always a pillar of calm and know what's going on. Thanks for all you bring to this blog.
@ Anita, I love the way you keep it real. Great job and staying focused on Zac and Zac alone.
I wanted everyone to know that Zac or Zac's parents had nothing to do with this Los Angeles gathering at the start. It was all the idea of the local Southern California bloggers that wanted to get this started. We just wanted to get together since we write every day and wanted to meet one another at some local place. It did become something much better and I'm proud of all the Southern California people who have spend lots of time and money to put this all together.
Thanks to everyone involved because your time is greatly appreciated. Please let's all turn this into a POSITIVE gathering full of joy, happiness, socializing together, and most of all we'll learn a little more about Zac and his fabulous adventure. This is the very reason I'm here writing today.
Everyone Stay Positive,
Douglas Pistone
MDR, California
Hi Zac, Team Sunderland and Zac Packers,
Wow, you can tell the current financial situation is making people a little crazy.
I don't think that anyone is being forced to read this blog, donate or attend the "fundraiser" get-together. The event sounds like fun and we certainly hope to attend.
It is apparent that Bill Mann is a friend of the family. His remarks regarding Zac's hair are obviously meant to be endearing.
I read this blog daily and don't recall Bill Mann offending anyone.
But now maybe I am offending someone...oh well.
For those of you who find the blog upsetting, please go find yourself something constructive to do. We are all here to support Zac in anyway we can. If you can't afford to make a donation, or attend the event, please don't. We don't want your family to be deprived.
The event is suppose to be fun with refreshements and entertainment. It is a way for us who can attend to get to know each other.
As for why the money is needed...figure it out. There are port fees; fuels; repairs; and the list goes on.
To Zac and the Sunderland Team, please don't let the naysayers get you down. There is one or two in every crowd. They aren't happy unless they are complaining.
Bill and Linda
Formerly of Washington DC
Now from Camarillo, CA (Yeah)
WOW, what is happening here? I haven't posted for a few days because the subject matter has become so side tracked.
Very sad!
Zac,
Sending good thoughts and prayers to you daily.
Sail safe.
Mona
Tucson, AZ
I think the blog should be moderated like it was in the early days. Too many negative vibes, here.
from Iowa
I usually don't respond to the blog comments but I felt that the 'Booker T. Welfare' comment was just so way off base that I should comment lest others actually think it has any validity.
First of all, anyone who thinks that what Zac is doing is in way easy has never been on a sailboat. Just getting across Santa Monica Bay to Catalina Island is a huge undertaking (if properly prepared for). Zac has sole responsibility for monitoring all systems onboard Intrepid which is done on a poor night's sleep everyday. How many emails and blogs would you send if you had 4 hours of sleep day after day? To suggest that our family is doing this for money or that Zac is just hanging out out there being lazy and taking advantage of his position is absolutely ludicrous! He is our son! Anyone who has a child knows that you love them enough to let them pursue their dreams no matter how hard it is for you. We have spent the majority of our savings to help Zac prepare for this trip. We will be paid back eventually when Zac writes a book and makes his documentary. To suggest that we pushed our son out into a dangerous situation to make money is, frankly, the most insulting comment I have ever heard. This is not the first time I have heard this comment. You have no idea what it is like to be in our position and to assume the worst like that is absolutely disgusting to me.
As for the comment on the costs of a search and rescue:
1. The airplane that flew over Zac was with Australian Customs. We alerted them to the situation and they offered to have their daily flyovers go an extra 100 miles to check on Zac.
2. It is easy to look back after the fact and say "Ha Ha! Isn't Zac a fool for thinking that this boat was up to no good." I encourage you to read his blog on the matter. How would you have reacted under the same circumstances? Yes, we now know that it was probably an Indonesian fishing boat either flinging their evil spirits onto Zac or trying to get a good look at him. Their behaviour at sea was irresponsible by most people's standards. For a 60' power boat to repeatedly change course towards a vessel under sail is provocative whether you are a poor, ignorant fisherman or not.
As to the commenter who thinks that Zac already has sponsors and is questioning what Zac needs money for:
1. Zac has an impressive list of equipment sponsors. They have been invaluable in preparing Zac's boat for this monumnetal journey. His boat enjoys most of the best in the latest technology.
2. He also has a sponsorship from Produce for Kids. They also have been incredible in offering assistance to Zac and helped tremendously in those last weeks with all of the unforeseen expenses with Zac's new engine etc.
3. The expenses for Zac's trip are varied. There are expenses to feed and provision for Zac. There are expenses for fuel and parts and repairs. There have been equipment failures. There are costs for flying people out to Zac to film and photograph and also to haul the boat at the boat yard before he crosses the Indian Ocean.
You could sit back and question how we spend money and what we prioritize. You may say, why spend money on a photographer or a cameraman? We feel it is important to capture Zac's trip on film. While it is not the reason for Zac doing the trip, if he is out there, why not capture it to the best of our abilities so that the world can experience a bit of his trip? By all means, if you are uncomfortable with supporting Zac, don't do it.
In closing I would like to reiterate for those who would assume the worst, that this trip was Zac's idea. He is uniquely qualified to do this trip and has thus far been hugely successful. Please don't minimize the huge amount of skill and self-discipline that this endeavour takes. As we have said before, if he didn't want to continue we would welcome him home with open arms. As he has chosen to press on through all of the ups and downs, power to him. If he earns money or prestige because of what he is doing - GREAT! Sitting where I am sitting, I can most assuredly say that he has earned it.
Marianne Sunderland
zacsworldadventure@yahoo.com
Well said Marianne! I commend you and your family for supporting Zac in his adventure and following his dream. From one mom to another... You go girl!
Terri
Mission Viejo
Marianne,
Well said, I'm just sorry it was necessary.
Chris
Zac, Marianne, Laurence, and Family...
You are all "First Class", anyone that has followed Zac's Adventure and Blog for any amount of time know this. We support you!
Some posts deserve no comments, they are just a poor reflection on the individuals that have nothing better to do with their lives than to post meaningless comments. They little people with little to offer anyone.
Sail on Zac Sunderland!!!!!!
Bob in OKC
Good Morning Everyone!
Thank you, Douglas, for your kind words. I couldn't be more enthusiastic about being involved in this. It's an honor to serve, and I am humbled by the young man at sea. Zac is extraordinary.
Marianne, I can wait to meet you and your family on Sunday. My family, too, encouraged and supported me in all of my youthful endeavors. Imagine having to suffer a kid learning to play the drums! (I also had a penchant for taking things apart to see how they worked. To this day, I can still put most things back together again!)
I completely understand your frustration when anonymous people get personal. Ooooh, I've wanted to fire off a few choice flames myself; I mean, How dare they?
If it helps, when you read the anonymous dreck,
1. Know that we don't give a rat's a*s about uninformed people's specious remarks. They are so completely off-base, that it's more laughable than anything else: simply the ravings of a poor, petulant soul;
2. Picture the Unknown Comic in your mind while reading such blather. He's just a poor sot with a bag over his head! Makes me chuckle just picturing it!
My colleague, Annie, and I will be travelling 700 miles to hang out with youz guys. Why, because we wanna!
Did I mention that I booked my car and hotel through GiftClix?
We'll bring some spare paper bags in case Booker T Welfare shows up with his MG's. Hee hee.
Troy Brimm
Modesto, CA
hello all -- i am proud to be a financial supporter of zac's adventure (and, honestly, my contribution (s) have been rather minimal). like so much in life, it was the thought, effort and what i could manage at the time. the current economy has literally slammed the business i have given the last 14 years of my life to. i will continue to do what i can to see that zac's dream is realized. a previous committment may prevent me from attending the fund raiser but i'm not giving up on zac and if i can not make it i will be there in spirit and i'll buy a ticket for someone who can't afford to go but wants to.
God Bless Us All (evem 'Booker T. Welfare' --he may need it most).
john baker/w hollywood/ca/USofA
jbaker1226@aol.com
@ Marianne
Very well said. That mentioned post was an insult.
You guys are doing a great job.
@ Zac
I hope - by now - you have at least about 15 knots of wind and getting close to your next land fall
Greetings
Axel
heye@madisoncounty.net
@ Jonnybgood
That's a great idea (donating a ticket). I will contact Marianne to see how she would like me to do that.
Axel
heye@madisoncounty.net
Marianne,
Very well said, I am just so sorry that you have been moved to the point of having to explain or justify Zac's incredible journey to anyone, much less the likes of some of the recent posts.
As a mom I understand the
tremendous amount of stress and anxiety you must be going through at times. You diffently do not need grief from anyone that is not supporting this adventure.
Please know that you have a whole bunch of "True Zac Packers" in your corner!
You are an amazing women and your amazing family is tribute to that fact.
I truly hope the LA get together is a great success. I would love to attend but will save my trip to CA for the homecoming!
Mona
Tucson, AZ
We sure would like to attend the fundraiser, but will not be able to at this time due to a prior commitment. It would have been nice to meet other Zac Packers, as well.
Zac, keep on sailing and stay positive. God speed and keep you safe.
Dick & Gin
Upland
@ Marianne,
You don't need to justify anything you do on Zac's behalf to me. It doesn't take a rocket-scientist to figure out where the monies raised will go to/for. As someone who has followed the blog from the beginning I recall with great clarity IT WAS THE BLOGGERS who asked how they could help support Zac's journey and they have found some wonderfully creative ways of doing so.
@ everyone else,
It's one thing for Zac to experience a boat that has gone off course as a result of foul winds, currents, etc.; things that are beyond his control.
It's quite another for us to allow this boat (blog) to veer off-course into unfriendly territory, as it seems it has. We are more fortunate than Zac, in that we (bloggers) have the ability to "right" this vessel (blog), get it back on course and continue to enjoy the journey. So, if you'd like to enjoy a nice, exciting, breathtaking sail around the world, please jump in my boat. There's plenty of room and the company is diverse and wonderful, just like the trip we're taking!
Oh yeah, and did I mention; my trip (blog) is free :)
Disclaimer: Mea culpa's to the sailors on board if I'm not using the correct vernacular. You see I'm a novice sailor and blogger! LOL
Have a great weekend everyone!
Melanie in Torrance
Hello Marianne,
I'm glad you took that one off your chest and I'm sure you feel much better now. I'm so glad that you took the time to write down your expressed feeling about this subject matter. The comments today sadden me so much that I can't even imagine how it must have made you feel. I'm sorry that we have to deal with sour apple from time to time. Some people aren't happy unless they are complaining about something, anything and love making other people miserable.
Please know and realize that you have people here who love what your doing and fully support all your hard work. No one is wearing your shoes or Laurence shoes for that matter. I don't know how you do everything your doing and still have time to apparently defend your actions and your sons actions.
Let's all get this past us and work on making the LA Gathering the best it can possibly be. Hopefully we'll raise plenty of money to actually take some pressure and stress off the entire Sunderland Team.
I hope Zac never reads any of the anonymous hurtful and negative posts sent today. Hopefully he's concentrating on just sailing. Sometime it seems like he's much better off than we are sailing on that open ocean all alone.
Thanks Marianne What a Great Post,
Douglas Pistone
MDR, Califfornia
Hi Marianne,
Maureen from Boise here. You are such an inspiration. I am also a parent of a 16 y/o son with dreams. Our son is a phenomenal musician and wants to go far with it. The love and support we feel for our kids to achieve what is in their hearts sometimes will never be understood by others. I also have a 13 y/o son moderately affected by autism. His Dad and I have such a deep place in our heart for him. It's a love of complete compassion but also full of fear. Again - when I find myself getting jealous about what others might get to do, I say "good for them, I have Ian and what a gift he is."
My point here is that none of the negative bloggers will ever be able to understand the kind of supports, financial and otherwise that will be needed for Zac. I have been reading through the blogs over the last few days and have been a bit sad. Your reply was appreciated and necessary. I just hope all the Zac Pac'ers realize that Zac's website and blog are a choice for your family. It would be easy for you to just delete the whole thing but, you've chosen to include the world - and as cyber-sailors, we so appreciate it.
I'm hoping that you don't let Zac know about the negativity. Like my son, Ian, let's just let him enjoy his own world - sometimes it is for the best.
Sorry I can't make the get-together, but we'll be there in spirit. (Hope this wasn't too sappy - but I had to put my two cents in.)
Maureen
Boise
Marianne -- you are a wonderful woman, it's no wonder Zac is such an amazing young man! The entire reason I've been following and posting on this blog (and it's the only one I ever have, by the way) is that when I heard Zac and you on NPR back before the launch, I found this adventure intriguing and inspiring and I just had to check it out more -- been hooked ever since! I fully expected to be along for the ride and inspired by Zac, but what I didn't expect was to be inspired at such a personal level by you. As a mom of two 4 year-olds, I know I will remember you and hopefully be following your lead as they reach for and achieve their dreams in the future. You are a wonderful family, keeping doing what you’re doing, you have touched many people’s lives already and I expect that will grow exponentially as Zac continues his achievements. I only wish I could do more than I have so far and that I could be there for the event! Take good care, Peace as always, Your Oklahoma Well-Wisher
Team Sunderland,
No need to respond to anonymous posts or any others for that matter. The Zacpac is behind Zac 100%.
For those that are not inclined to support Zac with a donation I would urge your prayers for his safe passage. I appreciate the fact that this forum is used to provide information on how the Zacpac can be an intimate part of Zac's adventure.
Regarding Zac,
Zac sails on despite the dangers in his path...I have never been through a squall or been approached by a ghost ship or seen a great white shark or eaten something with blood in the name, or been alone(and isolated) for weeks on end but I admire anyone, at any age that can endure the way Zac has. Zac can't stay home from school because he has a headache. I would challenge the Zacpac to eat a can of cold chili over the weekend but I would rather reflect on what an amazing person captain Zac is not to quit.
Steve
Birmingham, AL
Hello Zac-Pac,
I spoke with Marilyn this morning regarding the LA Gathering. Thank you Marilyn for all the information you gave me.
I sent an email to people in my contact list that could make possibly this gathering. I wanted to share this email with everyone so others in Southern California might do the same. We have 300 seats to fill and I would love to see them all full on October 26th.
I sent this email to 50 people in my Contact List. Let's all do the same. You can even copy most of my email so it won't take very long to send it to all your friends. Here's a copy of the email. I copied some of the information from the blog to make it easier on me also.
Hello Everyone,
Zac Sunderland who has been seen on television, in the newspapers, heard on the radio, and is currently all over the Internet including You Tube. Zac is trying to become the youngest person to sail around the world alone. Zac started his trip on June 14th leaving from Marina del Rey and his incrediable adventure began. I'm inviting everyone to a Los Angeles Gathering to raise money for his trip expenditures. Obviously Zac will not be at this gathering since he's sailing on the Indian Ocean heading to the Island of Cocos Keeling as I'm writing.
A presentation of Zac's trip and a fund raiser for his adventures will be held on Sunday October 26th from 3:00 to 6:00 pm at The Organic Panificio Restaurant located at 4211 Admiralty Way (at the corner of Palawan Way) in Marina del Rey. Laurence & Marianne Sunderland, Zac's parents, will provide an update on his trip, including on the water action video shots of his adventures at sea and a computer video presentation of his planned route. The afternoon will include a question and answer session and a silent auction of donated products and services. During the event, Marianne and Laurence will attempt to contact Zac directly at sea via satellite phone for an additional on-the-spot update. Light appetizers will be served and a "cash bar" will be available.
As space is limited, reservations are required by October 20th, and we strongly advise pre-paid reservations. Cost for the event is $20 pre-paid for adults ($27 at the door), and $10 for children 12 and under (pre-paid or at the door). To pre-pay for reservations by credit card, go to Zac's website at www.zacsunderland.com, click on "Zac's Store" it will be the third world down on the left side counting from the top down and just follow the prompts. For additional reservations or information, send an e-mail to Marilyn at mgsimcox@yahoo.com or phone (818) 703-1154. Please RSVP before October 20th.
Raffle tickets will be sold for door prizes and we will have a silent auction, so please contact Bill Mann if you would like to donate an item for the auction (bill@barstools4u.com). Those of you who are not geographically close, and are not able to attend the event can help out by sending auction items. We don't have much time, so please contact Bill as soon as possible.
Here is all the information on the Restaurant below.
The Organic Panificio Restaurant
4211 Admiralty Way
Marina Del Rey, Ca
(310) 448-8900
www.organicpanificio.com
The owner of the restaurant didn't charge anything for the use of his facilities for Zac's gathering. I believe this was a very generous offer since restaurants in the Marina del Rey charge a lot of money to host events like this one. Hopefully most of you will have dinner with us at the restaurant afterwards. It will give us a chance to all socialize together.
It takes a lot of money to sail around the world and when you purchase tickets this will greatly benefit Zac's circumnavigation trip. I look forward to seeing all of you there. If you have any question please feel free to call or text me on my cell phone at (310) ???-????.
Thanks,
Douglas Pistone
MDR, California
P.S. Please send this email to all your friends who might want to join us for this great event. Check out Zac's website and see what an incredible and courageous thing this young man is doing at the age of 16 years old. See Ya There!!!
Marianne, I must take exception to one of your remarks.
He is our son! Anyone who has a child knows that you love them enough to let them pursue their dreams no matter how hard it is for you.
I know from experience that not everyone who has a child loves them enough to let them pursue their dreams, or even love them enough to acknowledge they are there.
As one who has raised almost 100 other peoples children, I can recognize a kid who has parents and a kid who has two people that brought them into the world. There is a BIG difference.
Marianne and Laurence, you are parents. The two people who brought Booker T. Welfare into the world were not parents or their kid would not have turned out the way he did.
Bill and Linda in Camarillo, I must correct your statement. I am not a friend of the Sunderland family. I have never met them. I am certainly looking forward to meeting them at the gathering.
Everyone posting on this blog have their own agenda, including me.
Several months before I happened upon an article in the L.A. Times about Zac, I lost one of my kids in an automobile accident.
Aaron came to live with me when he was 12. A drug addict, a consistant F student, a gangbanger and an attitude that cannot be put into words. The only good thing about him was that he had a gentle streak and loved animals.
It was not easy for him to live with me. A black kid in a white household, a drug addict living with someone who would not tolerate drugs, an F student living with someone with 3 PhDs, a kid who read porno magazines living with someone who read the N.Y. and L.A. Times.
But Aaron grew, adapted, applied himself in school, graduated with a 3.5 GPA and was ready to graduate Arizona State. He won a scholarship to attend UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine.
Aarons death has allowed seven other people to lead very productive lives with parts of him in their bodies.
So Zac is filling a very great void in my life. Hence my support.
He has the energy, the drive, the smarts that Aaron had. He has goals like Aaron had. When I look at Zac, I feel that part of Zac is with me in Aarons spirit.
Zac, you are amazing and my only negative thought about you is that you are Marianne and Laurances son, not mine. However if you were mine, you would have had a haircut by now!
Bill Mann
We agree with the previous posts which were well said.
Marianne and Team Sunderland,
You're all doing a fantastic job and we thank you for allowing us to share in Zac's dream. Don't waste your time on the few bad apples. Eventually, they'll fall to the ground.
Zac, keep on sailing and stay safe.
God speed!
Dick and Gin
Upland
@ all Zac-Packers:
I am one of a large number of folks for whom it is logistically impossible to attend the 'fund raiser'. Please remember us as you look around and realize that you are only the tip of the iceberg!
@ Marianne:
It's reprehensible that you've been feel the need to express yourself as above -- and you did a jam-bang job of it. Be very aware that the ill informed riff raff is to small a minority to concern yourself with. It's just a sad fact that if we receive many alocades and compliments and one offensive criticism, the negative one seems to carry an undue amount of weight. Those folks are just not worth even being acknowledged.
Sometimes I am apaled at my fellow humans. I do not apologize for them because that may result in their thinking they are significant ... and some people already suffer from a delusion of significance.
If Zac and Team Sunderland has any such flaws, it'd have to ben in the neighborhood of unwarranted humility. You are all super, your are all loved, and you have our support!
The Croaker
Man, what is it with “Anonymous” bloggers that just looooooove to pick a cyber-fight???????
Is it the “control” they temporarily feel (till they’re rightfully blocked) typing up their grievous posts?
Is it from jealously and envy? The original death of Abel at the hands of Cain was jealously and envy, so it’s a serious emotion for sure….
Is it that they are unhappy with their life? This is of course most often caused by their own thoughts, actions and of course, the best one in my book for the cause is…….. IN-ACTION….. Unlike Zac, who is ACTUALLY doing something!!!
The wind is free he says!?!?! Yea, if your sittin’ on the beach, and even “getting there” isn’t free….
Yea, sure, let’s circumnavigate and $0.02, yea, that’s a good idea…
Unreal….
Daveh & Skipper
Everyone remain calm...
The trolls seem to have found the blog. It is inevitable as this quest gets more coverage and publicity. I probably don't need to say it, but pay them no mind. They thrive on being contrarian and agitators.
Us old usenet folks say "Don't feed the trolls", just ignore them and they tend to go away. Sadly, on an open unmoderated site, they will always be here.
There is a place and manner for all opinions; trolls are motivated by intentionally being argumentative and contrary just because.
But enough of that...
Zac, hope you are well and the winds are being nice to you.
Cheers all!
willy
milford, ohio
Hola a Todos
Nadie aquí esta obligado a nada, el que quiere colaborar en la forma que puede o quiere, lo hace desinteresadamente sin pedir nada a cambio ( ni siquiera explicación alguna del uso de las colaboraciones..)…
Por consiguiente el que duda de la integridad de la Familia es libre de hacerlo, pero sepa que no es bienvenido en forma anónima y mucho menos si no realiza o ha realizado de alguna forma algún tipo de colaboración.
YO no tengo NINGUNA DUDA alguna de la integridad de la Familia de ZAC, como así también de muchos otros que hace tiempo que compartimos el blog de ZAC…
Por mis pagos hay un dicho que reza, “La puerta esta abierta para los que se quieren ir, como para los que quieren entrar”
Tu decides “ANONIMO” de que lado quieres estar…
Con respecto al gathering que se acerca, les deseo un GRAN ÉXITO deseándoles lo mejor!!!
Saludos a todos y a mi regreso del campo seguiré haciendo algún que otro comentario, pero ya no de este tipo…
Glen
Bill Mann,
What a very touching story. Thank you so much for sharing it. It is obvious in your posts, that you are a unique individual.
The fact that you have devoted yourself to helping kids without the benefit of loving parents says an awful lot about the kind of person you are. You have touched the lives of kids that you have been able to help grow and prosper.
And they have touched you in ways you never could imagine, if you had not opened your life to the commitment of caring for them.
I really commend you, and that is from the bottom of my heart.
By the way, I am sending you the silent auction items by US postal tomorrow. So you will receive them next week.
Best regards,
Peter
Hola cañada
¡Gran poste como sabemos cuáles este blog es realmente sobre. .lifting encima de nuestro hombre joven Zac!! Esperaba que usted habría visto mi poste del eariler a usted de modo que usted puede ser que vea cómo es mi español:)
¿Me pregunto si usted podría decirme de donde usted está? ¿Usted navega? I' t un deporte maravilloso, I' VE estada en él por cerca de cinco años ahora y yo lo amamos. Tome el cuidado, yo aman el leer de sus postes.
Dios bendice Anita
Waterloo NY
Marianne,
I was touched by your heartfelt posting. Saddened tho, that it was necessary. What great parents you have been to Zac in nurturing his dream, his quest. At my home I have framed, "There are but two special gifts we can give our children; One is roots, the other is wings." You have done well.
I cannot imagine your pain when you knew a strange boat was heading for your son while he was in alone a half a world away. We too, joined in prayer with you for God's protection. You, Laurence and Zac had obviosly prepared well for such an instance and he responded admirably and responsibly.
Us Zac Packers are honored to follow this quest in spirit with each of you. It is exciting to read the updates on our captain as they post. Thank you, each of you for sharing this journey with us.
In a picture posted Zac has on a shirt that says, "Do something hard" and certainly he is doing that, as are all of your family. So many try to find the easy course, and there are few that step out and make a difference.
To Bill,
My husband was gravely ill 2 years ago when he received a kidney and pancreas transplant that changed his and our family's life. What a gift your son gave, the gift of life. He will never, ever be forgotten in the lives his life-gift has touched.
We will be away during your gathering. Please do it again soon so we can participate.
And to Zac,
Sail on our Captain. Enjoy the wind, the stary nights and the beautiful skies. You will be our eyes and ears as we enjoy it with you. God's blessings surround you.
Sylvia
what a day!
marianne --you are so special...everything a mother should be: patient, loving, understanding, protective and the rock of gibralter all in one!
to the entire ZAC PAC -- job well done today. have a great weekend, everyone.
john baker/w hollywood/ca/USofA
jbaker1226@aol.com
A rough translation of Glen's Post.
Thank you Glen for your kind thoughts and thoughtful input.
======================
Nobody here is obliged to do anything. Ones who want to collaborate in the form that he or she wants, does so without asking for changes nor explanations of the use of the contributions.
Consequently the ones that doubt the integrity of the Family are free to do so. But know that it is not welcome if you do it as anonymous. Besides, you have not made a contribution so your input is dubious at best.
I do not have ANY DOUBT about the integrity of the Family of Zac and thus I have shared the blog for a long time.
My payments to Zak are said in prayer. I say that “The door is open for the ones that want to go as well as for the ones that want to enter”.
You decide anonymous which side of the door you want to be.
With regards to the gathering, I wish a GREAT SUCCESS and all the best!!
Greetings to all and to my return to the blog. I will continue posting but I hope no longer posts of this type.
Glen
I had an email from Glen I thought I would share with all.
======================
Hi Bill Mann
I just wan to tell you that I road your post today and I found EXCELENT…
I don’t have a WORD to explain how I feel it when I read it.
It was a really shame what it happen to Aaron…
About your new son “ZAC”, I think they are quite happy to maintain a prudential distance from you and your scissor, at least for the moment…
See you on a board at my return from my ranch..
Glen
>====================
So there you have it Zac. Even Glen in his broken English understands what is going to happen when I meet you with my scissors. :-)
Wow! Come on people. Some of these postings are getting downright malicious. Are we forgetting why we are on this site? We're tracking Zac's journey around the globe. The ups and downs and everything inbetween. We're also here to help him in anyway that we can so that HE can concentrate on what he needs to do. For most of us, it can only be words of encouragement, but ONCE IN A WHILE there are other ways--hence the L.A GATHERING.
If any of this bothers anyone, there are thousands of other sites on the Internet you can explore!
Bill mann
I cant stop to laugh …. When I read a few second ago your post
juaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa
Be careful ZAC some one wan to cut your hair; don’t put your foot on land in California area. I can Give You asylum here in Argentina...
Glen
@ Glen in Argentina..
your last post to Bill Mann had me laughing also...
Great...
Dave
Does anyone know where I can buy one of those hats with the pony tail attached, to give to Bill Mann, so he can wear it at the LA event?
Wouldn't that be hilarious?
Marilyn in Woodland Hills
Marilyn,
I will wear a wig if you like.
Maybe even a Whoppie Goldberg wig
Besides, I am already hilarious to look at just the way I am.
I was really complimented today. Some stranger at Vons stopped me on the check out line and told me that I was wearing the scarest Halloween mask he had ever seen.
I guess that I shall really have to go out and by a mask now.
Bill
The posts today reminded me of Wall Street. Up and down. Down. Up. Some sad and then very funny stuff!
On the sad side, Marianne, I am so sorry for the callous comments of a few anonymous posts. As others have said, please remember that the great majority of us have grown to love and respect Zac in such a huge way. This goes for the Sunderland Family as well. He - and all of you - are such an inspiration for us. We are so grateful to be along for this incredible adventure.
Douglas, thank you for the e-mail ideas. I will send those out tomorrow. Interestingly, my husband found out today that a co-worker sails out of MDR. He mentioned Zac and his mission and the guy said, "I've heard of him." So we are going to encourage him to come with us on the 26th.
Then, on the up note! Bill and Glen, those posts were hysterical.
Zac, perhaps when you arrive at your big Welcome Home Celebration you should tuck all of that hair under a hat! And watch out for Bill and those scissors!
And by the way, Zac, have you caught any fish? How far are you from Cocos? Please always remember, you are in our prayers!
Blessings,
Jennifer and Ben
Sherman Oaks, CA
LOL @ Bill and Glen!
Marilyn: As for that "special" hat for Bill, you might try some of the stores that are carrying Halloween costumes....
@ everyone else: sounds like we've righted our vessel. Goodnight to all!
Melanie in Torrance
Marilyn,
I found these!
Troy
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