Construction begins on Ocean Institute’s Seaside Learning Center in Dana Point
The Ocean Institute and the Maddie James Foundation kicked off the construction of the Maddie James Seaside Learning Center with a ceremony on October 25. The project entails the removal of a 35-year-old dock and replacement with the Center, a large dock that will include facilities in which children can learn about ocean science and maritime history.
The center is named for Maddie James, a five-year-old girl who passed away in 2011. The Institute was a favorite location for Maddie; her foundation raised $1 million for the project.
Collie James
Maddie’s parents, Kajsa & Collie, both spoke at the event, which was also attended by Supervisor Patricia Bates, Ocean Institute Board of Directors Chairman John Williams, board members from both the Ocean Institute and the Maddie James Foundation and many VIPs from the Dana Point community.
Kajsa James
Paul Breazeale was Maddie’s teacher at St. Anne’s, and he wrote and sang the song Ocean Flower, which he performed as they were laying wreaths in Maddie’s honor.
Laying A Wreath
The Maddie James Seaside Learning Center is scheduled to be completed in the Spring, and will begin serving students. For additional information, please visit http://www.ocean-institute.org/get_involved/SLC-b.html.
Jim Graves
