Clearwater and The Great Hudson River Revival
The sloop Clearwater is a common sight along the Hudson. She sails between
New York and Rensselaer, educating school classes about the environment and
the river, and encouraging the public to experience the Hudson by sailing on it.
The Clearwater Festival, or Great Hudson River Revival, is an annual event
held this year on June 15-16 at Croton Point Park. The weekend is packed
with music and other entertainment and is a wonderful way to spend a day or
both days of the weekend. It's kid-friendly, and environmental education and
awareness are important parts of the event as well. There are 8 performance
venues ranging from a large amphitheater-like stage to smaller locations for
story-telling and musical jamming. Clearwater members get a 20% discount
on tickets (children under 11 are always free!). You can join at clearwater.org,
and get tickets at clearwaterfestival.org. We are always looking for volunteers
to help run the event. One area that is recruiting is the "working waterfront,"
and that should be of particular interest to members of HRBYCA:
The Working Waterfront at Clearwater's Great Hudson River Revival is an event
within the event. We get people on the water in small boats, sit on top canoes,
kayaks and 25 foot rowing boats built by students as well as small sailboats.
We have two small, busy committees working out of Mother's Lap, a rather
nice beach and launch point that provides easy access to the river. Our
group, the Beach Crew, is a small group focusing on water safety. In addition,
we have a group of lifeguards working with us. Qualification for the Beach
Crew is by skills and interview. We are looking for people with small boat
skills, preferably with first aid training, who are comfortable getting people
to do what is safe on the water and the shore. Before you sign up at
Clearwater. org, please email me for clearance. I will arrange to talk with
you by phone.
Eric P. Russell