by Iori Miller
Everybody has to believe in something, I believe I shall go canoeing. This is a line attributed to H.D. Thoreau on the internet. But as Abraham Lincoln warned: “The trouble with quotes on the internet is that you never know if they are genuine.”
Many of us buy WCA membership(s) to find like-minded individuals to mount back country wilderness adventures, some a day’s drive north of where we live, or even a day’s plane travel to access Canada’s far north. But many hold membership solely to receive our quarterly magazine, Nastawgan. Herein we tell our stories, share our learning, or simply share a food recipe or trick for canoe repair. Stories have a unique power. They motivate us.
Everyone loves a good story.
According to Sandy Richardson, one of the founders of the WCA, the first cost of a WCA membership was only $5 in 1974. Today, it’s significantly more, but one thing that hasn’t changed is that Nastawgan production is still where most of our membership monies go. Now when membership numbers fluctuate (since covid these are down 14%), we find it necessary to sell a few Ads to offset costs.
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Wilderness Canoe Symposium
The 41st Annual Wilderness and Canoe Symposium is going to be held at York University on Saturday Feb 21., 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Location: York University, Vari Hall “A”, 198 York Blvd., North York, ON
*See wcsymposium.com for the 2026 Symposium Program
WCA Annual General Meeting
Saturday, March 28th 11am-12:30 pm at Mountain Equipment Company, 784 Sheppard Ave E, North York. WCA members attending the AGM will receive a 15% discount on most purchases at the store. Parking is available under the building.
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