What’s new on the “Petaloo”
Hello Again River Friends;
It’s time for an update on “Friends” activities and River related news.
Here’s the latest scoop from Friends of the Petaluma River .

Events

Friend’s First meeting:
Friends is delighted to announce its first general meeting! After months of behind the scenes work by Board members, advisors and key volunteers planning and building our organization, we are now ready to “celebrate and conserve” in public. Please plan to join us for a “happy hour” event that promises to be fun and informative. We want to meet you and share ideas.
When: Thursday, July 20 th from 5 to 7 PM .
Where: PRBO’s new conference room 3820 Cypress Dr suite 11 . Petaluma
What: Friends of the Petaluma River’s first public meeting.
Enjoy free refreshments, meet other “Friends”, and learn about our activities.
The PRBO meeting rm. is on the back side of the Bldg. facing Shollenberger Park & the river.

We have a dream:
Our dream is to have an office and meeting place in the heart of the community. The Board of Directors has approved the idea of a floating office / headquarters for Friends of the Petaluma River . A houseboat. One that could regularly be docked in downtown Petaluma and occasionally travel around the Watershed; to be used as an information station, educational platform, and River resource.

This dream has wings! It has captured the imagination of many folks, including 2 angels who have offered to match all contributions made to Friends of the Petaluma River for the next 2 months, to a total of $10,000; to help us in acquiring the ideal vessel. Now is an incredible time to consider a major contribution to Friends. You will double the value of your donation and help to make our dream come true!

Our “dream” angels (who for now remain anonymous)

Please call (707) 763-7756 or write for further information and to pledge your support.

3rd Nautical Mass - July 21st:
The “Nautical Mass”, is a 3 rd Friday freeform evening outing on the River. On July 21 st . we will again launch at the Petaluma Marina for a suggested trip to the turning Basin and a reprise of “Jazz on the Deck”. Last month’s event was so much fun we have decided to do it once more. Join us and stay for dinner at one of the several fun restaurants near the water, or follow your own itinerary. In keeping with the unstructured nature of the event participants are responsible for their own safety and travel arrangements. There is a staggered start from the Petaluma Marina; with paddlers and rowers departing in groups from 5 : 30 to around the 6PM. Meet up in the turning basin for a floating photo op. Call or e-mail Friends for more info.

News

Pressing issues:
The Redwood Landfill expansion issue made the Press again on Monday. (on my computer you have to scroll to the right to find the article)

In the P.D. article by Tobias Young I am quoted (for good reason) as being totally opposed to the dumps location. Other voices are heard as well but the one to watch out for is Waste Managements. Their spokesperson says they are no longer seeking an expansion. Although this sounds like a victory for the forces of nature it also occurs to me that they are playing possum.

As Chris Gilkerson, Chairman of No Wetlands landfill Expansion says, ” I think they want 25 million cubic yards plus 9%, still a major expansion if you take the current baseline of 19.1 million cubic yards. But we’ve made progress. Our 5 point, consistent mantra needs to be :

• The plan is still too big and dangerous in light of the environmental and health risks. Their are better alternatives that the penny-wise & pound foolish continue to ignore.
• Every expert agrees there will be a failure and leaks at some point, and taxpayers will likely pay for toxic clean-ups post-closure because there is no long term assurance bonding being required. The damage could permanently degrade the Petaluma River Watershed.
• There is a need for independent monitor because WMI’s track record shows it can’t be trusted;
• Organic material and green waste must be kept out of the landfill due to methane gas generation that contributes to global warming.
• Marin County must show resolve and local authority to address the above issues by reviewing the land use permit and not just putting it on the shoulders of the state’s agent for solid waste in the county, the unelected director of EHS (Environmental Health Service).”

I will post the public hearing date for the final EIR when it is confirmed.

Short strokes :
Have you seen the jellyfish? A swarm of the silver dollar sized aquatic creatures has been cavorting in the turning basin and around other river docks. Look for an article about them by Cory Young in the Argus Courier .
www.ArgusCourier.com

Petaluma River Wear!
A new batch of attractive Friends fleece vests, nylon jackets, and sporty hats are in. Get yours at our public events or contact us directly with your requests. Act fast while the selection lasts!
Fleece Vests $ 35 Nylon Jackets $35 Hats $15

Memberships : the river still wants you for a Friend
There is still time to become a “Charter Member” of Friends. This privilege is limited to the first 100 people to join. We are definitely gaining momentum as more folks are sending in membership donations. If you have not joined us yet please visit “Join” above.

Tell a friend about “Friends”

We hope to see you on the water and in the community
Cheers,
Dave Yearsley — Executive Director
Friends of the Petaluma River
Celebrate and Conserve

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