Thanks to all walkers that came out expecting a projected rainy weather but in fact walked under clear blue and sunny skies, though a bit windy! There were lots of Public Arts (11) and Parks (8), both big and small, some old and weathered and others yet to be opened. 

AVA Walk challenges included Bakeries (5), Diners (2), Murals (8), and WPA (2) (Works Projects Administration). 

WalkOregon challenges included antique shops, banks, bicycle shops, bed & breakfasts, firehouses, landmarks, and water towers. 

Today's walk event touched Forest Park, meandered through Legacy's Stenzel Healing Garden and along the Willamette River. And in between were many opportunities to shop, eat, drink, and shop some more in NW Portland and the Pearl District.

And Leslie W captured a rare photo of a very shy Great Blue Heron, Portland's official bird since 1986, wading in Tanner Springs Park. More at Audubon Society of Portland. More here.

The CRVC Club's 2013 Pre-Walks Schedule has been tentatively released for the 2014 Columbia Gorge events. Confirm each date with either Dick K and Ed H.

Website Contact: http://www.columbiagorgewalks.com/contact/
Phone Dick at: 503.679.9473
Email:  info@columbiagorgewalks.com

On March 9th, 2013, CRVC club members walked the Aspen Creek Trail winding through Washington Park. This was a long-time every day walk but was recently discontinued. If there is interest in having this as a seasonal (April 1st - September 30th) walk, leave a comment! Photos by Ed H.

Walking the Opal Creek Hike on 19 February 2013. Photos by Ed H.

Club members trekked up to Pittock Mansion on Saturday, February 16, 2013. More on PortlandHikers and Portland Parks & Recreation. Photos by Ed H.

Walk with us through residential neighborhoods and commercial districts to find Parks and Public Art! Brochure here. More on Weekend Walks.

More on Street Art.

NW Region Volkssport Friends, 

Next year is ESVA's turn to host the 2012 NW Regional Conference.  Plans are now being firmed up for this event.  It's time to add this event to your vacation plans for next year!  

This event will be centered at Camp Berachah in Auburn Washingon.  The Hillside lodge will be our central headquarters.  We are planning to have walks in NW Trek, Crystal Mountain (maybe gondola ride to the higher elevations and hike down), Downtown Tacoma and an event around the camp area.  There are many other YR's a short distance away.  

The camp has an indoor swimming pool so we can host a Swim Event.  We are planning to keep your time filled with other highlights in the area.   Did I mention the camp has a "dunk tank" and Sam is already asking if he can get credit for this!  There is a campfire ring so s'mores will be on the menu.  Did you know they make flat marshmellows now so you don't break the graham crackers when you smash them together?   Any guitar players out there?   Maybe after the AVA convention we will need a round of "Kumbaya"! 

Save the date and join us for this event! 

ESVA Planning Committee
Fran C - Chair
Sharon M
Dorm B
Dave O

Directions to Camp Berachah here.

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: WILLIS KORFF <korffs@>
Date: Mon, Jun 13, 2011 at 9:46 PM
Subject: Fwd: Save the Dates - NW Regional Conference - August 16-19, 2012

I have already blocked off the dates of Aug 16-19, 2012 for the Northwest Regional Conference.  During that time, I ask that clubs not request event sanctions, so that everyone will be able to attend the conference. Sure, I'll work the dunk tank too, so long as I get swim credit.  Sounds like lots of fun. 
Sam

Read about the nearly 1100 pound Bald Eagle's Nest, owned by the Federal Government and on loan to the Jackson Bottom Wetlands. 

The walk was held on a cold, breezy, rainy and overcast day. See more at the Sherwoodmerrywalkers blog of 6/18 and their photos.  

  

Gratis & enjoyed by some 30 walkers under both sun & rain. Thanks to both Dick B and Joe & Karen K for setting the pace! For more, view Sherwood Merrywalkers blog (6/15) and photo gallery. See here for upcoming Weekly Wednesday Walking.

The AVA Trail Rating System has been revised and a new one developed. This is a two-part rating system. It now takes into consideration Incline and Terrain and these features should give participants a better idea of what to expect on a route. The new system kicks into gear for all events beginning on January 1, 2012 next year.