Local paddlers from Bellingham, WA recently organized a fund raiser for AW that included a screening of Eric Link’s latest Twitch film (see AW Bookstore). The event raised $1000 for AW’s Access, Conservation, and Safety programs.
With the goal of bringing local paddlers together for a good party and an opportunity to raise some funds, local volunteers Drew Coe, Devin Smith, and Chris Tretwold organized the event at the Pickford Dream Space in Bellingham. The event exceeded expectations and drew over 250 people. Bellingham, a town which clearly appreciates whitewater, has recently celebrated successes through the defeat of two hydro projects on creeks enjoyed by local paddlers: the Clearwater in the Nooksack drainage and the Ashlu in BC.
Josh Bechtel, a former student at the local Western Washington University, introduced the new Twitch film and the evening finished up with fine local brew and tunes from The Noise Upstairs.
Making the evening a success were generous sponsors who kicked in some great gear for the raffle including a carbon fiber paddle and lots of other goodies from Yeager’s Paddle Shop, a boat from Necky Kayaks, and rafting trips on the Nooksack River from Hobo Expeditions. The Western Washington Outdoor Center also contributed funds to help cover event costs and promotion.