This past weekend, we hosted a Folk Picnic in Beacon – a return to our roots, and a celebration of Clearwater, music, and our community. In the early days of Clearwater, Pete and Toshi Seeger organized Folk Picnics to raise funds to construct the sloop. This spring marked the start of our 55th sailing season on the Hudson River, a significant milestone for a wooden vessel sailing in a tidal estuary. We also celebrated the completion of our first Paddle for Our Hudson challenge, a summer challenge that aimed to get people out on the water while raising funds to support our mission. In total, paddle participants cumulatively logged over 1,555 miles and raised $7,570.
Though a rainy forecast threated to move the picnic inside, the full program took place outside, and featured: Beacon School of Rock, Walkabout Clearwater Chorus, Joe Heukerott, Matt Cartsonis, Ira and Laurie McIntosh, Laurie Siegel and Patrick Jones. Additionally, the picnic offered children’s activities, including face painting, hair wrapping, and a sprinkler for kids to cool off.
We are grateful to the performers, volunteers, and supporters who made the event possible. A special thanks to Adams Fair Acre Farms and Beacon School of Rock, as well as EatChurch for vending at the event.
