By Adrienne Brown-Reasner
West Michigan Tourist Association
Grass River Natural Area’s 2020 Riverfest continues online with an auction and virtual paddle raise through 11 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 3.
There are nearly 70 items to bid on with a total value of more than $20,000. Successful bidders may find themselves taking a three-hour private sail on the America’s Cup yacht, Stars and Stripes, playing golf at one of several courses, dining at various area restaurants, or at a private Italian dinner prepared for six guests, wearing beautiful jewelry, or admiring a new piece of artwork on your wall.
GRNA naturalists stepped up to offer private hikes, kayak and pontoon tours, and plant identification. Local retailers supplied gift cards and items, and a Bellaire woodworker donated five pieces of heirloom quality furniture to bid on.
To participate follow this link. https://bit.ly /Riverfest2020
The proceeds from the auction and paddle raise will be used to continue the protection of GRNA land and provide opportunities for all ages to learn about and appreciate the natural world. Additional information can also be found at www.grassriver.org.
As of Monday, Aug. 24, a total of $12,700 has been donated during the first week of the three-week Paddle Raise. That is 34 percent of the goal of $35,600.
Longtime GRNA supporters have offered a donation match of up to $5,000. These funds will be used to in ensure that GRNA is able to continue normal operations in the absence of paid programming. It also will help keep the Grass River Center open and staffed daily through the fall and winter for the enjoyment of the hundreds of visitors who will explore the trails.
As an added benefit, during this campaign Grass River Natural Center is offering the following donor incentives:
A Donor of Receives
$250 – $499 GRNA Water bottle and patch
$500 – $999 Copy of new field guide
$1,000 – $1,499 Copy of new field guide + Wetland Walks Book
$1,500 – $2,499 Guided walk with a GRNA naturalist for up to 6 people
$2,500 – $4,999 A private, guided two (2) hour kayak or pontoon trip for up to 6 people on the Grass River
$5,000 + A private, guided four (4) hour pontoon boat ride through the Chain of Lakes for up to 6 people with snacks and beverages
