We are deeply saddened to share with you the news that Sound Rivers’ staff and board, after consulting with local health officials, have made the very difficult decision to cancel the Oyster Roast this year. We are hopeful that the threat presented by COVID-19 will continue to lessen, however the information we have currently has prompted us to come to the conclusion that having our annual Oyster Roast would not be feasible in a way that would ensure the safety of our staff, volunteers, and you, our amazing supporters. While the revenue lost from the cancelation of our largest fundraising event will provide challenges for our work in 2021 and 2022, your health and wellbeing are more important to us.

As we did last year, we will have a virtual silent auction. Though you’ll still have the opportunity to bid on fabulous vacations, handmade art and more, we cannot tell you how much we will miss gathering in person with you to celebrate our waterways.

A Message from Sound Rivers’ Board of Directors:

Thank you for your incredible support of Sound Rivers’ critical work to protect our water. Sound Rivers’ Board would like to invite you to join us this fall, as we have all pledged to increase our support for the organization. We know you are as concerned about the health of your waterways as we are; we all need Sound Rivers’ important work to continue.

With the Oyster Roast canceled for a second year in a row, Sound Rivers will rely more than ever on the generosity of you, our clean water community. We humbly ask that you join us in increasing your gift this year; even $10 more can help our organization continue to protect your waterways during this uncharted time.

From all of us who serve on the board, please accept our heartfelt appreciation for all you do for your waterways.

Sincerely,

Sound Rivers Board of Directors

JoSeth Bocook, President – Tarboro

Catherine Kastleman, Vice President – Raleigh

Ann Marie Holder, Treasurer – Greenville

Mary Davidson, Secretary – New Bern

Adrian Atkinson – Winterville

David Emmerling – Pittsboro

Betsy Hester – Rocky Mount

Emilie Kane – Greenville

Walker Knox – Raleigh

Ernie Larkin – Washington

Dr. Sid Mitra – Winterville

Stephen Smith – Raleigh

Caty Gray Urquhart – Tarboro