SAN FRANCISCO — The FusionStorm Foundation has launched The Dream Sail Raffle to assist Ocean Voyages Institute’s initiative Project Kaisei,  the first and only science-based, non-profit ocean recovery project that is testing ways to remove plastic from the ocean and find alternative uses for the trash.  Proceeds from the raffle will fund the organization’s second expedition, which is happening in August 2010, to the North Pacific Garbage Patch, documented to be a floating mass of millions of tons of plastic trash double the size of Texas.

Raffle tickets are available for purchase until August 28, 2010 and are $50 each.  As a grand prize, one lucky winner will win a fabulous once-in-a-lifetime trip for four people to French Polynesia, sailing to the Tuamotu Islands aboard Rocket Science, a luxurious 50 ft sailing yacht.  Airfare and cash are also included as part of this exciting package.

The Tuamotu Islands in French Polynesia are an exotic paradise inspired by the likes of Somerset Maugham and Michener. This magical part of the world is the perfect destination for those desiring a private, yet adventurous, experience. The islands and lagoons boast miles and miles of pristine coastline and are nirvana for lovers of clear waters and exotic islands.

Raffle participants who purchase tickets before July 30th will qualify for the earl-bird drawing and will have the chance to win other exciting prizes, including tickets to Jack Johnson’s To The Sea concert and an iPod. There are only 5,000 tickets available for sale which presents good odds for those who participate. The Grand Prize winner will be selected on August 28, 2010.

 “The Dream Sail Raffle is a fun and innovative way for people who love the ocean to be involved in raising awareness and funds for Project Kaisei,” said John Varel, CEO of FusionStorm and founder of the FusionStorm Foundation.  “Without healthy oceans, the voyages we enjoy would not be possible and it is critical to support organizations working hard to restore balance and security to our seas.”

 The plastic trash collected during the August Project Kaisei expedition will be distributed to a handful of recyclers who will test methods to convert the material into fuel or other useable goods. As a collaborative action program, Project Kaisei is seeking sponsors, participants and leaders in their respective industries who can help to make a difference - on land or at sea - in reducing marine debris.

To purchase tickets and learn more about the Dream Sail Raffle and Project Kaisei, please visit: www.dreamsailraffle.com.

 About The FusionStorm Foundation
The FusionStorm Foundation was established to raise funds to support causes that affect our planet and our daily lives. Support of Project Kaisei's ocean clean up initiative is our current focus. Our goal is to raise awareness and fund research to solve these complex issues.  www.fusionstormfoundation.org.

 About Project Kaisei
Project Kaisei is the two-year old ocean clean-up initiative of Ocean Voyages Institute and is based in San Francisco and Hong Kong.  Project Kaisei, which is a 2010 participant in Clinton Global Initiative’s “Rethinking Waste” program, is a science-focused organization dedicated to finding a solution to the ocean plastic debris problem.  The group’s mission includes developing new technologies and methodologies for the development of effective solutions for assessment, reduction and abatement of marine debris; studying the trends and causes of water pollution from floating waste;  researching the potential impact of toxins in the ecosystem;  leading the coordination of large-scale clean-up initiatives to eliminate floating garbage patches in the ocean; and proactively educating companies and the community on prevention, conservation and new solutions.  Project Kaisei also serves as a catalyst to bring together public and private collaborators to design, test and implement breakthroughs in science, prevention and remediation.  During summer 2010, Project Kaisei will launch its second expedition to the North Pacific Gyre, where it will send multiple vessels to continue marine debris research and test an array of plastic waste collection systems.