Witches on the water

For the third year in a row, witches gathered on Sunday, Oct. 12, at Northpoint Plaza and flew — OK, paddled or knelt on paddleboards — from Swantown Marina’s public dock, around the point, past Port Plaza to Percival Landing, and then back to the marina.

Billed as the “SUP Witches!  Olympia” event, it’s purpose served as a fundraiser and food drive for the Thurston County Food Bank.

“We’re here to support the food bank,” explained logo designer Elisa Del Giudice, “and the witch theme also helps to bring the community together.”

The idea for the event began several years ago at the Westside Tavern when a group of local women learned Portland held such an event.

“So we decided to start one here,” commented Lindsey Trimble, one of the organizers of this year’s event, “and the tavern became ‘the witches idea hub.’”

Despite an overcast sky and stiff breeze, more than 100 witches, and a few warlocks, showed up. To take the edge off the chilly conditions, Ember Goods provided hot coffee. 

“This is all about community,” commented Ember Goods co-owner Nick Terrel. 

Members of the Sticks & Bones Marching Band provided music for the event, which attracted a number of paddleboarders.

“I’m here today because I love adventure and working with a community that helps others,” said Bri Perdue, as she put her paddleboard into the water and prepared to head out.  “Doing this makes my soul happy.”

The event raised almost $1,900 and 550 pounds of food for the food bank.

Allison Zusi, who works in development and communications at the food bank and helped coordinate the food and donations received from the event, could not have agreed more.

“We are very grateful to have received this help from this wonderful community; we are neighbors helping neighbors,” she said, “and we are looking forward to next year’s event.”