In June 2021, ShoreRivers celebrated the Summer Solstice in a new way by inviting community members to truly experience the organization’s mission through one-of-a-kind adventures. Participants purchased nearly 250 tickets for 26 small group outings where participants could see and appreciate our precious Eastern Shore environment from perspectives like health, history, boating, farming, the arts, and our economy.
ShoreRivers Executive Director Isabel Hardesty put the event in context, saying, “For many, the Solstice indicates the official start to summer and the warmer months when so many people flock to the river. This year, despite pandemic challenges, we wanted to offer the opportunity to experience our rivers in new, meaningful ways. By connecting with partners—regional experts in their fields, local celebrities, and entrepreneurs—we were able to provide uniquely memorable experiences that illustrate the need for healthy, accessible waterways.”
Galena resident and Sassafras Watershed Advisory Board member Linda Gaydos had particularly glowing praise about the Fair Hill Farm tour of a local dairy farm implementing innovative conservation practices. “I just returned from my first Solstice Expedition, and it was a wonderfully insightful and educational experience. The Fry Family couldn't have been nicer hosts or more accommodating tour guides. It wasn't until I recently became a full-time Eastern Shore waterfront resident, participated in the Watershed Stewards Academy, and joined ShoreRivers that I realized the delicate synergy between land and water. The Frys definitely added a new thought-provoking perspective. We live in a unique and biodiverse environment; aren't we lucky!”
With the addition of an online auction and livestream concert, supporters of ShoreRivers contributed over $93,000 for advocacy, education, and restoration efforts throughout the region. Special thanks must be given to the Solstice Celebration Committee, numerous expedition leaders and hosts, generous auction item donors, and lead sponsors: Raymond James Foundation and Valliant Wealth Strategies, The Keith Campbell Foundation for the Environment, Myrt and Mary Bee Gaines, and Alan and Penny Griffith, among others.
Whether you were able to participate in the Solstice Celebration or not, ShoreRivers would like to hear your thoughts about the future. How would you like to celebrate the Solstice in 2022? Please take five minutes to complete the Solstice survey under Quick Links at the ShoreRivers homepage to share your thoughts. You can also watch a recording of the livestream concert with Philip Dutton and the Alligators under the Videos tab.