Staten Island’s Pour Mania 2025 Fundraises for Youth Solar Cars

The annual Pour Mania 2025 event, organized by Pour Standards, will take place on October 25, 2025, from 1 to 5 p.m. at Flagship Brewery in Staten Island. This fundraiser aims to support Seagull Solar, a local nonprofit dedicated to equipping underserved youth with hands-on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) experiences. Tickets are available for $40 and include unlimited tastings of beer, cider, and mead from local brewers, with advance purchase required through EventBrite.com.

Supporting Youth Through Renewable Energy Education

Proceeds from the event will specifically help students design, build, and race a solar-powered car in the upcoming 2026 Solar Car Challenge in Texas. This initiative not only fosters technical skills but also empowers young people to innovate and prepare for high-demand careers. “When students see their ideas come to life — like building a solar car — it transforms how they view science and their own potential,” said T.J. Smolka, a founding board member of Seagull Solar.

Founded in 2014, Pour Standards, also known as the Richmond County Brew Society, works to unite local craft beer, cider, and mead enthusiasts. The event will feature various activities including raffles, a 50/50 drawing, food for sale, and music provided by DJ Frank De Riso. Attendees will also have the opportunity to view ‘Gemini,’ a retired MIT solar race vehicle from the 2024 American Solar Challenge, on display courtesy of Seagull Solar Ltd.

Seagull Solar’s Mission and Impact

As a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Seagull Solar is committed to building and racing solar-powered cars for the Solar Car Challenge, a national competition that encourages high school teams to design and drive road-worthy solar vehicles. Their mission emphasizes the importance of clean, renewable energy for our future. “Through solar car projects, we aim to inspire STEM careers and raise awareness about sustainability,” the organization states.

For additional information about the charity and its initiatives, interested individuals can visit their website at statenislandsolarcar.com or reach out via email at [email protected].