Pipe-A-Thon to fight cancer at several local bars tonight

The sounds of Auld Lang Syne on the bagpipes will ring through 18 Alameda bars this evening thanks to the ambitious fundraising efforts of East Bay resident Andy MacKay.

“Tonight is the most exciting night of the year back home in Scotland,” MacKay said. “I’d like to share this excitement with fellow Alamedans and Bay Area folk.” 

MacKay said that he hopes to bring New Year’s cheer to Alameda, have some fun, and raise some much-needed funds for a great cause.Mackay’s performances during the Pipe-A-Thon will raise money for a cause near and dear to his heart.

“This year the donations collected will be in memory of my father, Bertie MacKay, who died in the United Kingdom in February after losing his battle with cancer,” MacKay said. He will be collecting money to support all who are affected by this disease. 

MacKay will have some help. The Collectors — aka Jake and Elwood Blues — will accompany him around the city, to “strong arm” donations as necessary.

They’ll start at McGee’s at 6 p.m. before visiting Angela’s, Speisekammer, Lemon Tree, Churchward, American Oak, Lost Weekend, Hobnob, Lucky 13, Fire Den, Club House, Z’s, The Swell Bar, Forbidden Island, Wally’s, Fireside, Shamrock and 1400. MacKay said the he’ll perform about five minutes at each bar. “Blink and you’ll miss us,” he said. He encourages folks to get out to a bar early to get in on the action. 

MacKay is asking the community to come out the bars, cheer him on and help fight cancer with a donation.