Ice Cream, Community, and RiverTrek Excitement at Maclay Gardens
On Sunday, June 7, Apalachicola Riverkeeper welcomed supporters, friends, and future adventurers to our annual Ice Cream Social at Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park in Tallahassee.
More than 50 people joined us for a wonderful afternoon of community, conversation, and celebration. Attendees ranged from our newest supporter—just 12 weeks old—to the original RiverTrek paddler, whose solo journey helped launch the program by raising awareness and funds for the Apalachicola River.
Guests enjoyed chocolate, vanilla, and neopolitan ice cream with plenty of toppings while staying cool inside the Garden Cottage. Outside on the deck, the talented Rachel Hillman provided live music, creating the perfect backdrop for mingling with fellow supporters and enjoying a friendly game of cornhole. 
One of the highlights of the afternoon was the announcement of the 2026 RiverTrek Team. Several team members were in attendance, giving guests an opportunity to meet the paddlers who will soon embark on their own journey to raise awareness and support for the Apalachicola River and Bay.
2026 RiverTrek Team
Leads: Chrysanthemum Watkins & Rebecca Means
Paddlers: Will Abberger, Doug Alderson, Richard Butgereit, William “Rand” Clark, Shirley Kasser Creech, Connelly Crowe, Lesford Duncan, Nathan Goldstein, Tim Goldstein, Tom Jennings, Greg Krionak, Mary Anne Koos, Skyla Means & Lee Rigby.
With perfect weather, cold ice cream, great music, and even better company, this year’s Ice Cream Social was a wonderful reminder of the community that makes our work possible.
To learn more about RiverTrek 2026 or to support the team with a donation, visit the Apalachicola Riverkeeper website, linked HERE.
6/10/26 Amanda James