Hello All -
I’m writing to you on a cool coastal feeling morning in the Portland area after the first hot weekend of the year in early May. This change of seasons always feels great.
Nineteen years ago at about this time, in my first year as Riverkeeper & Executive Director at WR, I was preparing with our partners to host the first Paddle Oregon. From the get go - the trip was a hit, owing to the beauty of the Willamette, a great community of people, and the sheer fun and uniqueness of the event. Since that time we did another 18 Paddle Oregon’s in each successive year, and this year we were set for a big celebration for the 20th trip!
After waiting a few weeks to determine if Paddle Oregon can take place in August during the time of COVID, we’ve decided to cancel the trip this year.
Like you, we
really
wanted to make this trip happen, and were imaging the various contingencies we could put into place to protect all of us. Unfortunately, imagining people sitting three to a table at dinner, wearing masks in 85 degree heat, and having pods that are socially distanced just seems to be a ridiculous notion. Those are but three of the factors that are against us this time around. The biggest issue is the health of all of us.
As you likely know, this event has multiple roles,
one being a staple fundraiser for our small non profit organization
.
You have several options outlined below related to your trip fees paid to date.
