The Waterfront Center recently announced the opening of the sailing season at the former Jakobson's shipyard on West End Avenue in Oyster Bay. "The season has opened so come on down", encourages Waterfront Center Executive Director Rob Crafa. With the advent of warm weather and the temptation of a beautiful bay, there should be no trouble finding interested people.

The Waterfront Center, created in March of 2000, promotes the preservation of the environment and safe use of the bay through sailing programs, marine schools, and community activities. With opportunities for education, recreation, and research, the Waterfront Center's programs encourage all people to learn about the marine environment and have a good time doing it.

Both junior and adult sailing programs are offered through the Waterfront Center. The Oyster Bay Sailing School, as part of the Waterfront Center organization, makes sure that community sailing programs continue in Oyster Bay. This September, the Sailing School is presenting "Women on the Water," a program designed for mothers who would like to learn sailing while their children are in school. Sailing is only one of the many activities offered by the Waterfront Center. Children can learn to fish, investigate the fundamentals of paddling, or become exposed to marine biology with the Center's Marine Education Courses. Adults can rent boats, as well as enjoy "Community Night" and "Dinner and a Cruise" on Thursday evenings.

On June 7, the Waterfront Center is hosting "Bay Day," an extremely popular occasion among Oyster Bay residents. The event is being held from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. at Oyster Bay's Beekman Beach. Included in the activities of the day are the 6th Annual Row Around the Bay and the 4th Annual Anything that Floats Race. Also sponsored are the Learn to Fish Program, the Marine Flea Market, the Annual Blessing of the Fleet, and the United States Coast Guard Boating Safety Expo. Kayaking, rowing, sailing, fishing, oyster boat tours, and fishing will, like always, also be provided.

A necessity to understanding our environment is delving into it. Beginners and nature experts alike should "come on down" and see what the Waterfront Center has to offer. With sailing programs and marine schools now available and "Bay Day" just around the corner, chances are the Waterfront Center will soon be a major attraction of the Oyster Bay area.

For more information regarding the Waterfront Center, visit www.thewaterfrontcenter.org or call (516) 624-2221.