“Pride of the Canyon”

Once again, writing the Presidential blurb is the last thing the editors are awaiting. Often it has to do with writer’s block, having too much to say, trying to encompass all the latest happenings. So it is with this column and I apologize and wish to thank the editors, Mary and Katherine, for their superb work and especially their patience.
The recently renewed crmp scoping sessions in five cities have begun and will be finished by the time you read this bqr. Members in the Four Corners states received an announcement giving cities and dates. As the deadline is September 20th, there is still time to send in your comments. All meetings so far have seen large crowds and many gcrg Board members and at least four Presidents attended in Flagstaff. The crmp is probably the most important event for gcrg members since the Grand Canyon Protection Act and the Glen Canyon Dam eis, so please make sure you submit your thoughts and opinions. Starting with a previous Board stance, the current Board has met and discussed an organizational position and hopefully you will find it “food for thought” as you formulate your stance. The crmp is a nepa process, so there will be other opportunities for input but if not now, the next one will be after the Draft eis is issued and a preferred alternative identified (see details elsewhere in this issue).
Speaking of gcrg Presidents, ten of the twelve (Kenton counts twice) showed up at the Old Timers gts, eight even being herded for a photo session by Dave, Geoff, and Kate. Appropriately, they posed next to a warehouse sign that simply stated “Clean Up Your Mess.” Which brings me to one point I’d like to make: that the gcrg is often accused of being anti-motor. Of the twelve Presidents so far, four might be counted as strictly oar, three strictly as motor, and five with both affiliations. That’s about as even as you can get and I feel the Board also falls along those lines. The current Board acknowledges the historical use of motors and the continued use as an effective management tool.
Leading to another point: that gcrg is a Flagstaff club. Founded and based in Flagstaff, the largest contingent of Guide membership is in Flagstaff. We have had Board members from other states and areas, and encourage participation from all Guide members.

This year’s ballot is well-balanced and reflects that position: two each of motor and oar guides; two of four from “north” of the Canyon; and another woman re-entering the fray. This was the hardest ballot for me to choose three of four highly qualified candidates; as I write this, the tally is too close to call, so I know that you have probably had the same debate.
Lynn’s financial report will detail the outpouring of support from the entire membership in a last-minute fund raising effort. I want to thank everyone for contributing above and beyond the call; it is truly heartwarming. Lynn also did an incredible job of writing, contacting, and following up on numerous grant possibilities. Both efforts successfully contributed to assist the financial stability of gcrg. Unfortunately, for the reasons delineated in the report, the Board has voted to increase dues slightly. Dues began at $20 in 1988, went to $25 in 1995/96, and will soon be $30 per year. The five-year rate goes up to $125 (from $100, still a savings) but life membership remains at $277. Right now, for a limited time, you can still join, renew, and upgrade at the current prices.
As I come to the close, I would like to thank you for being with me for this ride: the membership; Mary and Katherine, editors; all the Board Members; Lynn, the catalyst in the adhesive that glues gcrg together; and best of luck to Michael, on his run. As jwp finished his “turn in the barrel” (see The Best of Bob Boze Bell Low Blows, 1994, p. 111), in leading this trip for the last year, so must I. I have been proud to serve as your gcrg President. But, more importantly, I am proud to be a member of gcrg, to be a river guide, to be a boatman in the Grand Canyon. Member or not, all of you should also be proud of the effort and job you do. All have their setbacks, but this is some of the best work in the world.
A quote from Bill Beer (bqr, Fall 1996, 9(4):7), river runner, old timer: “You’ve got a tremendous organization with a tremendous group of people. And I don’t think the world recognizes what you are. I don’t even think you recognize what you are...Respect yourselves...There’s no organization like this – no national park in any country has an organization with the efficiency and the intelligence that you guys have. I’m astounded at the quality of people here. And I say to you – if you don’t want to use it, that’s up to you – but don’t underestimate yourselves.” Thanks, Bill, and from him and me, “Always have fun.”
Q.