EVANSTON — The fourth annual women’s paddle board competition held on Friday, Aug. 23, at the Bear Ice Ponds raised more than $3,500 for the BEAR Project. Board member Patricia Arnold said they plan to use the donation to help purchase a second new aerator for the Bear Ice Ponds fountain, which helps to keep the water from becoming murky.

The BEAR Project is a nonprofit that partners with Evanston Parks and Recreation to improve the Bear River Greenway.

This year’s event brought nearly 40 women together to participate in a drum circle with a meditative blessing conducted by Devi Jade, mystic and seer from Salt Lake City. It included a water ceremony led by board member Marilee Jackson, a silent auction and a raffle for a handmade quilt and a stand-up paddleboard. Guests were treated to a large assortment of wine, cheeses and other snacks.

More than 25 auction items were donated, including six “Blind Date with a Book” packages and a bottle of wine designed and donated by Natalie Wren. Donations came from a variety of businesses including Purple Sage Golf Course, Sports World, Jalisco’s, Aspen Cinemas, Eve’s Garden, Elevation Wellness & Infusion, Bearfoot Yoga & Wellness, The Beauty Bar, the Rec Center, Custom Hats by Kendra, Sarah Arave Tattoos, Wyoming Epoxy Signs and board members and individuals.

Winners of the raffle items were Sarah Nicholson (the stand-up paddleboard) and Karen Ellis (the quilt). Winners of the paddle board competition were Sonja Eves and Griffey, her little pug dressed like a shark who rode on the paddle board with Eves.