What’s new on the “Petaloo”
Hello Again River Friends;

It’s time for an update on River related news and “Friends” activities.

Here is the current offering from Friends of the Petaluma River.

Events

4^th Nautical Mass – to convene Aug 11: (Note: date is 2^nd. Fri.)
This Nautical Mass will be a downstream picnic cruise on Aug 11^th.

We plan to ride the ebb tide down to Gilardi’s Lakeville Marina and weather permitting have a picnic in the garden there. If the fog rolls in, dinner at Papa’s Taverna is a warm alternative. Either way folks will probably want to arrange to pull out at the launch ramp in Lakeville. The paddle back will be against the wind and tide. I suggest people meet at the Petaluma Marina launch ramp around 5 PM to launch boats & shuttle cars.

The “Nautical Mass” is gaining in popularity. Nearly 2 dozen participants joined our trip to the turning basin in July. Reporter Corey Young rowed along with us and wrote a very charming story about the event for the Argus: Nautical Mass — it’s whatever floats your boat. In keeping with the unstructured nature of the event participants are responsible for their own safety and travel arrangements and can set their own itinerary. There is a staggered start from the Petaluma Marina; with paddlers and rowers departing in groups from 5:30 to around the 6PM.

Call 707 763-7756 or e-mail Friends for more info.

North to Alaska!
We have moved the Nautical Mass up to the 2^nd Fri. of Aug. (not Aug. 25^th as reported in the newspaper) to accommodate the travel plans of yours truly. I will be going to Alaska for 10 days to help Capt. Ronn Patterson on a wildlife photography tour in the inside passage, aboard the 50’ “Delphinus”; the same boat that helped to launch “Friends” by offering us a fabulous free tour. I hope to enjoy cooler weather, see amazing wildlife, and gain sea time toward obtaining an official Coast Guard license; so Friends can offer more on the water services such as possible eco-tours and a water taxi.

News

The Dream continues:

As reported last month, our dream is to find a floating office/ headquarters/ heritage center to permanently house Friends of the Petaluma River. The search for a vessel has led us to the Napa River where we discovered an abandoned River Boat; one that may not only fill our needs but bring the romance and charm of a functioning paddle-wheeler back to Petaluma. To be continued…

Challenge Grant update:
As reported in last month’s Tidings, we have been offered a “Challenge Grant” of $10,000 to help realize our dream. Every dollar contributed to “Friends” before Labor Day will be matched by two generous sponsors.

I am delighted to report that to date we have received over $3000 in donations and pledges toward reaching our total match. Now is the time for all supporters of “Friends” and any other River devotees to dig deep in their pockets to help us to realize this Dream.

For more information & to make a pledge call (707) 763-7756 or e-mail
Mail checks to:
Friends of the Petaluma River
PO Box 4928
Petaluma, Ca. 94955

Please take this opportunity to double your contribution and help to put Friends of the Petaluma River “on the water and in the community”

River Maps!
We now have maps of the entire river available in 2 sizes. Thanks to the commission of a generous patron we were able to design and print 2 sizes of maps. These were unveiled at our well attended public meeting on July 20^th.

1. Paddle Map – 2 sided (on waterproof paper) $25 ($20 members)

2. Wall mount – 30” x 36”, suitable for framing. $100 ($80 members)

River News:
A group of river trail supporters and knowledgeable river advocates met for lunch with State Assembly Democratic nominee Jared Huffman on Mon. July 24^th to discuss possibilities on the Petaluma. During our water trip to town, Mr. Huffman was very impressed with the estuary and pledged to investigate the potential for creating a River Parkway in Petaluma. He has agreed to work with Friends Board member and Bay Institute executive director Grant Davis to develop possible strategies. We are very excited about the prospects.

In other developments, the Corps of Engineers, in conjunction with the City of Petaluma have begun the final stage of their flood control project by driving sheet pile along the Western bank of the river above Washington St.

My hope is that they spare the sweet little stretch of riverbank at the end of N. Water St. (behind the batting cages) from this industrial indignity. Its one of the few places left in town where one can enjoy a natural connection with the river. Check it out before it’s gone.

Volunteer opportunity:
“Friends” will host an information table during the upcoming visit of the scow schooner Alma, during the Petaluma Jazz festival; Aug. 18^th – 20^th.

We need folks to help with our display and hand out information on Sat. 8/19 between 10AM and 5PM. There will be an organizational briefing at 521 Walnut St. (Galland St. side) on Sat. Aug 12^th at 9AM for participants. Please contact committee chair Bob Brown, at 707-776-0938, to help out.

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 & Conserve

No Comments »