Cheers; Capt. Dave Yearsley

Rivertown Revival coming to River Heritage Center July 24:

You won’t want to miss this exciting new River event to be held on the grounds of the River Heritage Center. It will be an afternoon of fun for people of all ages with art boat races, costumed characters, colorful displays and exotic merchandise; all presented in an old-time carnival atmosphere. Entry is free and costumes are encouraged. Proceeds will go to benefit Friends of the Petaluma River. To learn more about the Rivertown Revival visit their website.

Entries are still needed for the art boat races. If you and your friends want to join the fun and create a non-motorized art-boat download a registration form from the Revival website. Friends has a few watercraft that could be borrowed by aspiring entrants. If you are interested contact David Yearsley.

River Tours a big hit:

Join us on a River Tour this Summer!

Friends Friday night wine and cheese Eco-cruises have been a big hit so far this summer. The tours not only highlight the River’s historic corridor but take passengers out to special places in the Petaluma wetlands so passengers can learn the secrets of the Marsh. Most of the tours have been fully booked but a few spots are still available in late July. August, September and newly added October dates are all still available, so check our web sites for the schedule and make your reservations now. Make a reservation (New! Now taking online payments) today.

Friends welcomes two new members to Board of Directors and bids adieux to two departing Board Members

J.T. Wick

Mike Simpson

At their annual meeting in June Friend’s Board of Directors added two new members. It was with great joy that the organization welcomed Mike Simpson and J. T. Wick to the Board. Mike, who is the Principal at Two Rock School and formerly the Principal at Petaluma High, has been an active Friends supporter and long time volunteer. He helped to organize our “Fishing Fair” in 2008, has participated in many River Clean-ups, and is playing an active role in restoring our cabins in the marsh. J.T. has been directly involved with the River as the Project Manager for Port Sonoma. He has been very active in the Petaluma community as a member on several advisory boards and committees including Petaluma Peoples Services, Petaluma Area Chamber of Commerce and the Petaluma River Access Partners.
Friends is very fortunate to have these gentlemen join the Board and we look forward to their leadership and enthusiasm. Friends Board of Directors officially bid adieux to two of our founding Members. Grant Davis, current Director of the Sonoma Co. Water Agency, and Dr. John Shribbs, a science teacher at Casa Grande High, left the board after nearly five years of service. They both helped to guide friends into existence and their talents will be missed. We also thank Gant and John for their years of valuable assistance as Board members. Fortunately they will still be involved with Friends. As members of our newly created Advisory Council they will join 19 other community leaders and Friends supporters in an advisory role.

Friends Advisory Council installed:

Delphinus

With our new administrative year Friends formed a new Advisory Council. Comprised of former Board members and community leaders the Advisory Council members have all demonstrated a keen interest in the River and have agreed to assist Friends in our endeavors. The members were invited to meet for the first time aboard the Delphinus for an introductory River cruise in May. A list of the Advisors is now posted on the homepage of our website and pictures from the cruise are available on the Friends Flickr page.

Get ready to Fandango

Click for Fandango information

On August 21st. Friends will host our second edition of the “Moonlight Fandango” at the Rockin’ H Ranch. This gala fundraising event was a smash hit last year and everyone who attended raved about it. This year’s event promises to be even better. There will be fine art and fantastic trips available at both live and silent auctions. A “bounty of the watershed” hors d’oeuvres bar with wine tasting along the River, and a sit down dinner in the ranch’s spacious airplane hanger afterward that will feature several courses of delicious locally harvested food. Live music for the reception and after dinner dancing will be provided by the Rivereens, a wonderful local band that plays gypsy jazz, blues, and old-timey music. The event sold out last year and is sure to do so again, so if you don’t want to miss the fun get your tickets now by contacting Elizabeth[at]FriendsofthePetalumariver.org.

Visit our Flickr site to see all of our action packed photos online

Cheers; Capt. Dave Yearsley

Tom Sawyer Days:

A modern day Tom Sawyer & Huck Finn

Tom Sawyer Day, hosted by Friends of the Petaluma River at the River Heritage Center on April 10^th, helped to celebrate Sonoma County’s “Big Read”. It was a wonderful experience for every one who attended. Despite showers early in the day over 150 people, many of them children, visited Steamer Landing Park to partake in the fun.

Launching of the River Craft

Fortunately the skies cleared in time for people to enjoy the variety of activities offered. A visit by Mark Twain (portrayed by George Weber) began the day, a River raft was built and sailed on the river by a team of aspiring river rats. Children, with bindle sticks containing snacks spread out over the grounds to discover a River camp (with a tepee), Indian Joe’s cave (where treasure was hidden), and a pirate ship (with Jolly Rodger flag). The Sonoma Co. free bookmobile was present to distribute books and several musical groups performed on the indoor stage.

Crew aboard the raft on the river

A dedicated team of volunteers was responsible for producing this wonderful community event. Key among them were Eve O’Rourke who facilitated the raft building, Leonard Page who created the River Camp and Indian Joe’s cave, Bonna Benedetti-Flynn provided “bindle sticks” for all the children, and Martha Murphy who created costume rooms. Special thanks go to Elizabeth Howland who coordinated the day’s activities. Major funding for the event was provided by a $750 grant from KRCB, who organized Sonoma County’s “Big Read” activities and a generous $500 donation from Clover Stornetta.

More highlights are available at Friends of Petaluma River’s and Patrick Campbell’s Flickr sites. You can also read about the event and “Big Read” related activities here and here.

River Cleanup coming May 8:

River Clean Up Day

River Clean Up Day

Once again the Petaluma River Clean-up committee is making arrangements for this annual spring event. Help is needed with organizing the cleanup as well as setting up materials and picking up trash on the day of the event.  For more information visit the River Cleanup web site or contact them at PetalumaRiverATgmailDOTcom. Download the flyer here.

“Teaching with Small Boats” conference:

by Elizabeth Howland

Friends of the Petaluma River’s founder David Yearsley and I recently returned from attending the first Teaching with Small Boats Conference.  We went seeking models for future programs at Friend’s new River Heritage Center. The 3-day conference was held at the Alexandria Seaport Center Foundation’s Boat Shop March 12 – 14, 2010 and was organized by their staff and student apprentices, as well as the Seattle’s Center for Wooden Boats and Wooden Boat Magazine.  Over 90 participants from 63 different organizations from the U.S. and Canada joined us there. The programs represented consisted of 53 established programs and 10 start-ups.

Conference setting

So many things that happened during our time there taught and inspired us. Almost all of the participants have created “Experiential Learning” programs to give young people (and in many cases adults as well) opportunities to develop life skills through boat building and on the water boating programs; that can also meet educational requirements such as math, reading and history, as well as in some cases, teach job skills.  The leaders of these organizations all came to this work through a love of wooden craft and boating, but they found that their greatest joy and sense of accomplishment came from watching what happens when kids learn these skills, when they begin and complete the building of a boat, that ultimately is launched and enjoyed by the community.  As Joe Youcha, Event host and founder of the Alexandria Seaport Foundation said to us, “We say we are building boats here, but actually, we are building lives.”

Joe and his group work with kids in the greater D.C. area, who are “at risk,” by virtue of having been referred to Social Services or being on their way to Juvenile Hall. The Alexandria Seaport program was launched to help these kids complete their GED’s, learn job skills and most importantly, develop a sense of competency and self-esteem. The current “Apprentices” in their program were our hosts, served our food, cleaned up after us, video recorded the conference, showed us around their shop and joined in for the presentations and discussions.  These kids were engaged, involved and proud of their work. Joe said that in 17 years, he could count on one hand the few times they have had any kind of social issues or behavior problems.

Joe Youcha (center) with Elizabeth and David

Another terrific organization that gave a presentation of their efforts was Rocking the Boat which was formed about 15 years ago in the Bronx by Adam Green, who was at that time a college student who volunteered to build a boat with some junior high students.  Rocking the Boat today has an annual budget over $1 million dollars, with several programs for kids including boat building, youth advocacy, job skills, on the water, as well as community access to wooden boats. They focus their boat building primarily on classic 14’ Whitehall rowing boats and have begun a program to mill their own materials from fallen trees.

Legendary folk singer Pete Seeger is an active supporter of this award winning group, and last year students harvested a tree from his country property, milled it and now have the lumber for their 2010 boat building program. During the summer months, residents and visitors can check out one of their boats for a row on the Bronx River. Last summer over 2,000 residents and visitors got out on the river as a result of this program.

The Seattle Wooden Boat Center and many others are getting people out on the water as well, utilizing historic wooden boats. Dick Wagner, Founding Director and Emma Levitt, Youth Programs Manager, spoke about their program, which is focused on providing a gathering place where maritime history comes alive through direct experience and small craft heritage is enjoyed, preserved, and passed along to future generations. Dick Wagner has offered to visit the Friends of the Petaluma River this fall to share with our members the beginning and evolution of the Seattle Wooden Boat Center.

This is just the smallest sampling of the programs that were represented at the conference.  We were inspired by the enthusiasm, creativity and passion of all of the participants, particularly around their witness to the power that experiential learning has, through the medium of boat building and on the water boating skills, to transform kid’s lives, and ultimately, those of their mentors and teachers.  Plans are now in the works for another conference to be held in 2012 and the formation of a national organization to support programs and individuals that practice teaching using small boats.

Barn Owl Box Success!

Barn Owl box at the Livery Stable

Owl pellets and shell fragments

January of this year Friends helped to build and place 4 Barn Owl boxes in the community. We are happy to report that 2 of the boxes are now occupied. The ones at the River Heritage Center and Ellis Creek Water Recycling Plant have distinctive the signs of activity like dirt around the openings and owl pellets on the ground below them. Have a look the next time you visit the River Heritage Center.

Dolphin Charters back in town:

Delphinus on the Petaluma River

Once again our Friends at Dolphin Charters are offering their popular 3 hour River tours on the Petaluma River. Tours are available in the morning and afternoons on Sat & Sunday April 10 &11 – May 8 & 9 leaving from the Turning Basin’s River House dock. More information is at Dolphin Charters’ web site. Download the flyer front and back.

New sculpture graces the River Heritage Center:

New Sculpture

Focal point for events

A new sculpture at the entrance to Petaluma River Heritage Center will now help guide visitors to the sometimes hard to locate setting for special events. It consists of a donated derelict dory that was restored and painted by Friend’s volunteers.

Local designer Robert Hudson, who helped conceive the sculpture, created the logo bearing mast and sail. Other key contributors to the project were sail maker John Amen, sign maker Warren Purcell, and landscape artist Eve O’Rourke. We also owe thanks to architect Todd Bloch who designed the wonderful logo for the RHC and the Petaluma Public Arts Committee.

Visit our Flickr site to see all of our action packed photos online.

Cheers; Capt. Dave Yearsley

River Heritage Center launches new web site:

Thanks to the amazing efforts of Friends office administrator Lucy Kenyon the Petaluma River Heritage Center now has its own web site www.PetalumaRHC.org. Visit it to learn about the Petaluma River and the efforts being made to restore the livery stable in Steamer Landing Park; a place for people of all ages to engage in River related activities, lore, and culture.

An exciting feature on the website is a new audio CD “Stories from the River Heritage Center”. This colorful recording, created by Petaluma media whiz Thom Butler and featuring an introduction by Mayor Pamela Torliatt, highlights many facets of the River’s resources. Friends Director Dave Yearsley tells those stories and local architect Mary Dooley paints a vision of the River Heritage Center’s future role in bringing them to life. Hard copies of the CD are also available from Friends for $5.

“Tribe Torch” work days:

Members of the men’s group Tribe Torch” donated 3 full Saturdays this past December, making major improvements that will help to protect the historic Livery Stable at Steamer Landing Park. They used their construction skills to place plastic sheathing over the porous southern façade. This in turn helps protect the stable’s new floor, which they cleaned, sanded, primed, and painted. Friends orchestrated the projects and the City of Petaluma provided the materials to assist the men of Tribe Torch. Our sincere thanks go out to all of the men who generously donated their time and skill to complete these projects.

RHC planners travel to study program models:

11/4 – River Heritage Center planners Mary Dooley, Bill Wolpert and David Yearsley traveled to the S.F. National Maritime Museum to discuss program ideas and possible collaborations. We learned from the Skippers of the “Alma” what makes their educational programs successful and were offered tentative plans for more Museum related activities in Petaluma in 2010; such as school trips on the Alma and building small boats.

12/1 –Board Members Elizabeth Howland and Elizabeth Mori were flown to Fresno by Friends supporter Sid Hendricks to learn about the San Joaquin River Parkway’s successful conservation and nature education programs. San Joaquin Director Dave Koehler and Bd. members George Folsom and Coke Hallowell met the travelers at the airfield in Fresno and were most generous in giving a tour of the organization’s diverse facilities while illuminating their successful 20 year history. They finished the tour with a gourmet picnic lunch by the River. See more pictures of the trips on Friend’s Flicker site and learn about the San Joaquin River Parkway Trust at: http://www.riverparkway.org/.

Mira Monte Marina being sold to Marin Audubon:

The Mire Monte Marina on San Antonio Creek is in the process of being purchased by Marin Audubon. The Burdell Island site, which spans the Marin County line and boasts the only launch ramp on the western side of the River between Petaluma and Novato has a long and colorful history. Although it has been closed to the public for many years it was once a popular oyster shack and water ski hotspot, while in earlier times it was a reputed prohibition hideout for bootleggers. Let’s hope that this unique location will once again open to the public and provide public access to the heart of the Petaluma Marsh. Read more on this story in the Marin IJ

Friends of the Petaluma River celebrates 4th year:

Friends had a very productive year Celebrating and Conserving the River. You can read more about our many accomplishments in our 2009 Annual Report.

On Dec. 6th Friends of the Petaluma River celebrated the conclusion of their fourth year with food and music at the Livery Stable. The celebration started with a special River Sutra blessing by Vasanti Jayaswal, which also paid special honors to community elders Lucy and Bill Kortum. Guests contributed wonderful holiday treats and free musical performances given by Larry Potts, The June Bugs, and the men’s chorus Sonoma Chansonne.

Box projects benefit the River:

Community volunteers, led by Andy LaCasse and Michael Kraus, worked with Friends to build several Barn Owl boxes, which have now been placed in strategic locations in Oak Hill Park, Ellis Creek, and the RHC, in hopes of attracting Owls to nest and help in controlling unwanted gophers. We also constructed many new doggie bag boxes and placed them along popular River trails to help keep animal feces out of the River. These activities are just some of the regular stewardship activities Friends undertakes to benefit the River.

Tom Sawyer Days coming to River Heritage Center:

On April 10th & 11th Friends of the Petaluma River will host “Tom Sawyer Days” at the River Heritage Center, near downtown Petaluma. The events will encourage children, adolescents and adults to engage in activities that reflect episodes in the book Tom Sawyer and life in a river town in general. Materials will be made available for a variety of book related activities and distributed around the 10 acre park.

Volunteers needed! If you would like help with Tom Sawyer Day activities please call us at 707 763-7756 to get more details or sign up on our contact list e-mail elizabeth [at] friendsofthepetalumariver.org

The Big Read is an initiative of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with the Institute of Museum and Library Services and Arts Midwest. KRCB Channel 22 and Radio 91 FM is the lead agency for The Big Read, Sonoma County.

Friends merchandise now available online!

Now you can buy beautiful art work, hard to find books and attractive “River Wear” at our online River Emporium. Visit our website to see the exciting selection of merchandise and follow directions to place an order. You can also purchase or pick up your orders at our office 260 H N. Water St. on M.W. & Fri 11 – 5 (or by appt.) Check out our offerings online. Here are some samples:

For more information or to help as a volunteer contact David Yearsley or call 707 763-7756.

Fantastic “Fandango” raises spirits and funds:

On August 8th Friends hosted our first ever gala fundraising event. “The “Moonlit Fandango” was a smashing success in every way. The party was held on the banks of the Petaluma River at the beautiful Rockin’ H Ranch and was blessed with ideal weather conditions, a warm evening with a gentle breeze. The capacity crowd included local business and political leaders and many ardent supporters of the Petaluma River.

Many people contributed to the success of the event. The planning team led by Elizabeth Howland, Elizabeth Mori, and Babs Kavanaugh drew praise for making the evening so wonderful that no one wanted to leave. The live and silent auctions featured fine art, jewelry and travel. Volunteer auctioneer Arnie Cohen did a great job of keeping the auction fun and profitable; selling art from over a dozen local artists who donated beautiful paintings, sculpture and jewelry as auction items. Travel prizes included a lakeside cabin at Tahoe, a house adjacent to Rocky Mt. Nat. Park and a week’s stay in a Paris apt. Two popular items, bringing $1000 each, were a fishing trip with Assemblyman Jared Huffman and lunch with former Speaker of the House Dick Gephardt.

These Fandango photos were taken by Friend’s Chairman Patrick Campbell:

Our sincere thanks go out to Sid & Gigi Hendricks for hosting the Fandango and the countless folks who contributed to the success of the event buy donating time, goods and services; and by sponsoring tables, buying tickets and purchasing auction items. Friends raised nearly $25,000 to benefit our River Heritage Center work, conservation programs and community events.

Photos from the Fandango with descriptions are viewable online at Petaluma 360.

Fandango event photos from Patrick Campbell are can be viewed online on Flickr.

Our sincere thanks to those who sponsored the event:

Fandango Table Sponsors: CamelBak, Clover Stornetta Farms, ECON, High Definition Designs, Port Sonoma
Fandango Wine Sponsors: Laurel Glen Vineyards, Stonefly Vineyards
Bounty of the Watershed Sponsors: Adobe Road Winery, Cowgirl Creamery, Clary Ranch, Phendler Vineyards, Ridgeway Vineyards, McEvoy Ranch, Della Fattoria, Flo Enterprises LLC, Petaluma Coffee Company, Ridgeway Family Vineyards, Sonoma Valley Portworks

What folks had to say about the Fandango:

Elizabeth,
You and the Hendricks and the planning committee did a FABULOUS job. Wow! A great time was had by all (volunteers included) and we’re getting money to move forward too! Congratulations.
Martha Murphy

Thanks for a wonderful extravaganza last night! Everyone was so nice and the location and wine and appetizers, etc were all great!!! The poetry jukebox was a fun element too… We totally appreciated the evening and everyone was enthusiastic about the cause. Thanks for all the hard work you did to create an amazing event!
Karen Hess

Just a note to let you know that the Fandango was really a hit! It was so well organized, everything moved along smoothly, the food and dancing were tops, the decorations were beautiful, and everyone was having a blast! You and your team did a superlative job! Many thanks for all your hard work and long hours.
Warmly,
Cari Pace-Koch

My hat’s off to you all for your incredible event that was pulled off against the odds! Very impressive. Jim and I enjoyed ourselves and were delighted to have been a part of this first of many gala fundraisers for Friends of the River and the RHC. I realize what a huge effort this must have been for the event committee, and the countless hours and days invested in the planning. It was well planned and executed down to the finest details – a tremendous success.
All the best,
Gina Benedetti-Petnic

Congratulations! That was really fun, in large part due to the SEAMLESS organization. Many remarked on the multitude of other fundraising events that we have attended which just weren’t as fun even though it was a good cause. Many of the people at our table couldn’t believe Jared is an elected since he was so nice and down to earth!
Thanks again and congratulations.
J.T. Wick

Congrats on pulling together a great event on Saturday. We all really enjoyed ourselves. I thought the catering was fantastic!
Abbie Walther – Vice President & General Manager
Moose Boats, Inc.

Community support benefits Friends and the River Heritage Center:

Friends could not exist without the continued support of individuals, businesses and organizations in the community. Several substantial donations to Friends have helped to fund our work at the River Heritage Center and in the community. Heritage Homes of Petaluma has made two $1000 donations in the last 3 months. Sid & Gigi Hendricks donated the use of their beautiful Rockin H Ranch for our Fandango. Golden State Lumber and Ghilotti Construction provided materials for our Livery Stable floor. Countless businesses and individuals have contributed materials, time, and expertise to help make our recent events and ongoing programs successful. We thank them all from the bottom of our hearts for their generosity.

Many of our supporters are involved in other important environmental work. One that deserves special mention is Stonefly Vineyards. They have a program that awarding a portion of their profits as an environmental prize to benefit fish. You can learn more at http://www.stoneflyvineyards.com/stonefly-prize.

Improvements at R.H.C. by Summer Youth Ecology Corps:

The Summer of 09 will be remembered at the Petaluma River Heritage Center for the work done by the Summer Youth Ecology corps (SYEC). Funded by a federal stimulus grant to employ disadvantaged youth, a team of 9 18 – 24 year old Petaluma residents was employed by Petaluma People Services for 2 months to improve the facilities at the R.H.C in Steamer Landing Park.

Under the direction of Team leader Ashley Lapham and with plans and supervision by community volunteer Eve O’Rourke the team learned masonry, carpentry, and landscaping skills while creating several important amenities to the RHC building and grounds. Visit the River Heritage Center to see the new “Story Circle”, “Granite Landing”, “River Stairway” and wonderful new floor inside the Livery Stable. Funding for materials was provided by Golden State Lumber and Friends of the Petaluma.

“Tule” Canoe constructed at River Heritage Center:

On Sept. 5th a volunteer team constructed a beautiful Native American style watercraft using locally harvested Tule Reeds and centuries old techniques. Upon completion the beautiful craft was donated to the Petaluma River Heritage Center. A history of the craft by team leader and professional photographer Charlie Kennard follows:

“This California-Indian style tule boat was built in September, 2009, by River Heritage Center volunteers Leonard Page, Ron Miska, Noah Miska, Ethan Miska, Eve O’Rourke, Dolores Baril, Richard Baril, Miguel Elliott and David Hansen, under the direction of Charlie Kennard.

Tule –reed boats were used in lakes, bays and slow-moving rivers in much of California for transportation, fishing, waterfowl hunting and gathering aquatic plant foods. Locally, they were used by Ohlone and Coast Miwok peoples in San Francisco Bay and its tributary rivers, and by the Pomo in the Laguna de Santa Rosa and Clear Lake.

Boats were typically constructed using three large bundles of tule stems, rising at the bow and stern, or only at the bow. Additional small bundles warded off splashes and retained cargo. Each stem is buoyant, due to air trapped in longitudinal cells, so the boat is technically a raft, although it is shaped like a canoe, a watertight craft. This boat weighs about 170 lbs. when dry, and gains weight when its many surfaces are wetted in use. The bindings used in this 14 ’ long boat are wild grapevine, tule rope and Manila hemp. In different regions of California, people would use whatever was available and serviceable, including other cordage and shoots of willow and maple.

Boats were replaced in late summer every year or two, the old craft returning to the marsh to decay, but valuable cordage was probably re-used for the new boat or other purpose, if in good condition.
Charles Kennard

We are pleased beyond words to have the first boat built at the Heritage Center reflect the watercraft used by the first inhabitants of the watershed. The boat will be on display at the Center during our meetings and events. We also plan to exhibit it at the Petaluma Museum and elsewhere in the community thanks to the “Tule Boat Team”.

Successful River Heritage Fair hosted by Friends:

After a night of lightning and thunder folks who braved the weather on Sept. 12th were treated to a day of exciting River related activities. The fun began in the morning with the 3rd edition of “The Mayor’s Boat Ride”. It continued all afternoon with visits to historic boats in the Turning Basin and activities on the grounds of Petaluma River Heritage Center in Steamer Landing Park. The efforts of many volunteers, led by Co-Chairs David Hansen and Eve O’Rourke, helped to make this daylong family event a great success. Bonna Benedetti-Flynn and her team of volunteers prepared the lunch & refreshments. Many musicians, poets, historians, and craftspeople contributed their talents to entertain the steady stream of guests that visited the Center. Special thanks go to Eve O’Rourke and the team that helped to build our temporary docks for the event. We also thank the SF Nat. Maritime Museum and the crews of the Alma and Grace Quan for sailing their historic craft to Petaluma for the weekend.

More highlights of the day can be found at the Friends Flickr site and at the Argus Courier’s Petaluma 360 site.

Fall Cleanup by S. Sonoma Resource Conservation Dist. & Friends:

Coastal Cleanup week saw the Petaluma River’s tributaries get some much needed attention thanks to a team from the So. Sonoma co. RCD lead by Jason Sweeney and a cadre of willing volunteers. Folks met at the Friends Hq. parking lot to scour the adjacent riverbanks and nearby streams. Over two dozen participants filled dumpsters provided by Green Waste. We salute Jason for organizing this clean up and look forward to an expanded event in 2010.

Dolphin Charters to offer Petaluma River Tours in October:

Dolphin charters will again offer their popular 3 hr. river tours this Fall aboard their beautiful 50’ trawler “Delphinus”. They will be in Petaluma on October 17th & 18th and Oct. 31 & Nov 1st.

Check out the official Dolphin Charters website for more information or call (510) 527-9622

For more information or to help as a volunteer contact David Yearsley or call 707 763-7756.

Dutra meeting draws hundreds:

A town hall meeting on the controversial Asphalt plant proposed by the Dutra Group for Haystack Landing drew hundreds of people to the Petaluma Veteran’s Hall on Sat. May 3Oth. The meeting was hosted by State Assemblyman Jared Huffman who was joined by Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey and State Senator Mark Leno. A passionate gathering of over 400 supporters and opponents arrived early and filled the hall to overflowing.

Three different panels presented information to the legislators and audience. One represented proponents of the project, one was opposition, and a third represented regulatory agencies. A public comment period was held toward the end.  The proposed plant, situated in an ecologically sensitive area along the river, has generated controversy and created community division ever since being approved by the County Planning Commission and passed by a straw vote of the Board of Supervisors.

The next hearing before the Board of Supervisors is planned for June 9th at 2PM.

Links to more information:

• Tapes of the Dutra forum will be available on Assemblyman Huffman’s website
• Read more on the meeting in the Sunday Press Democrat
• Read Frank Simpson’s Blog on the event and see more pictures
• Community activists have organized opposition to the proposed location of the plant and have an excellent website

Friends River Tours!

At long last Friends of the Petaluma River is offering River tours to the public. Beginning in June we will offer trips that will appeal to a broad array of people. Our nature tours will explore Petaluma’s marshes and feature bird watching and wetlands ecology. On Friday evening wine & cheese tours you can unwind and enjoy the rivers colorful vistas while learning about its history. We also offer private tours for families and groups that can be custom tailored to suit your needs. All trips will be guided by Friends founder Capt. Dave Yearsley, and can often include guest experts and entertainers. See our flyer and make your reservations now!

River Heritage Center workshop generates great ideas:

On May 26th a diverse group of community leaders, professional planners, and interested citizens gathered at the historic livery stable to participate in a brainstorming workshop for the best uses of the McNear’s Peninsula site. The workshop was hosted by the Friend’s Heritage Center Committee and orchestrated by architect Mary Dooley.

The participants were greeted by Parks and Rec. Director Scott Brodhun and given an overview of the Heritage Center site and Steamer Landing Park. They then broke out into work groups and to generate lists of ideas for use of the site and facilities. These ideas will be collated and summarized by the RHC Committee and used to prioritize future plans. Table leaders included David Rabbitt, John Fitzgerald, David Hansen, Gina Benedetti-Petnic, and Bill Wolpert. Workshop organizers included Mary Dooley, Bill Wolpert, Gina Benedetti-Petnic, Eve O’Rourke, and Bonna Benedetti-Flynn. Bonna & Gina provided home baked pizza and Peets donated coffee. A big thank you to everyone who attended the workshop and helped to make this event a resounding success.

More photos from this and other events can be found at Friends’ Flickr photostream.

Friends welcome two new Board members:

We are delighted to announce that two new members have joined Friend’s Board of Directors.

Penny Wells of San Rafael, affectionately known as the “Kayak Queen”, is co-founder of the Bay Area Water Trail and brings with her a wonderful and diverse background of paddle related activism.

Petaluma’s Elizabeth Mori is a community organizer who has devoted her time and energy to a number of efforts that promote public access to natural environments. She is currently a member of Petaluma’s Development Codes and Advisory Committee.

We would also like to acknowledge the departure of two former Board members and thank them for their valuable services to Friends. Cari Pace Koch left the Board in Dec. of 08 and Jaimey Walking Bear left in March of 09. Both Jaimey and Cari had work conflicts that caused them to resign. We are delighted that they have both have agreed to continue serving Friends as founding members of our newly formed Advisory Committee.

Petaluma River Cleanup ’09 = wet dirty fun:

Despite a persistent drizzle nearly 100 folks gathered at the Petaluma Marina on May 2nd to take part in the annual River Cleanup. Friends carried a boatloads of participants to “happy hunting grounds” as well as transporting trash back to the docks for disposal. This years Cleanup Committee was Chaired by Bob Caruso. Click here for more photos of the cleanup.

PSC3 hosts Day on the River III:

Saturday May 30th saw many new and experienced river users gather at Petaluma’s Foundry Wharf for the Petaluma Small Craft Center Coalition’s third annual “Day on the River”.  At the free event folks could test drive a number of different non-motorized watercraft including row boats, kayaks, outrigger canoes, water bikes and stand-up “surf scooters”. For a charming video of the event check out this YouTube offering from Petaluma Pete.

For more information on PSC3 visit their web site.

Friends needs your financial support!

Like many non-profits in these difficult times Friends of the Petaluma River is currently struggling to make ends meet.  We need your support now more than ever.  If you and your business appreciate the work that Friends does in promoting, protecting and reporting on the Petaluma River now is the time to re-new your membership or make a special contribution.
As a special incentive Friends will off a free hat for all contributions of $50 or more. Just mention this offer when you donate.

Online credit card donations can be securely made by clicking the red ‘Make a Donation’ button over there in the left column of this site. We need you! Friends depends and on public support to continue our important work

For more information or to help as a volunteer contact David Yearsley or call 707 763-7756.

A River Heritage Center is being developed on the McNear Peninsula near the heart of downtown Petaluma to provide displays, programs and events that highlight the Petaluma River’s rich heritage.

The River Heritage Center Committee invites people of all ages to help plan the new River Heritage Center. Participating in this workshop will be an opportunity to voice your interests, meet other community members and get connected to this great project. We look forward to hearing your ideas.

Click here to download a flyer about the May 26 community workshop.

Pizza, coffee and cookies will be served. Bring your own water

Sponsored by Friends of the Petaluma River and supported by the Petaluma City Council, Petaluma Parks & Recreation Dept. and the Petaluma Museum Association.  For information and to reserve a space contact Friends of the Petaluma River at 707-763-7756 or contact David Yearsley via Email.

River Heritage Center open house a huge success:

On April 5th 2009 over 200 people were attracted to Steamer Landing Park near downtown Petaluma by the convergence of 2 big events.  Friends hosted an open house in the historic Livery Stable which had been recently cleaned out and decorated for the occasion.  We also hosted the annual Petaluma River Row and invited the participants to join the festivities at Steamer Landing Park. Over 20 beautiful hand crafted wooden boats arrived at the temporary docks on McNear’s peninsula to join the land based visitors. Everyone enjoyed viewing diverse river heritage displays, munching on chili dogs (provided by Petaluma Poultry), and appreciating the natural setting. Activities included kite flying (hosted by Jungle Vibes), story telling (sponsored by Copperfield’s Books), & soaking up the sunshine. The Argus Courier spread the word with a wonderful article and has an on line photo gallery of the day’s colorful activities. Click here and also here to view pictures from the event.

Celebrating “No Child Left Inside Days”:

On April 8th Friends screened the documentary “Where do the Children Play? at the Petaluma Library. An appreciative audience watched the documentary and then discussed the importance of time in nature afterward. Sonoma County Regional Parks director Mary Burns brought copies of their “Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights”.

“With recent concerns about youth detachment from outdoor activities, lack of physical exercise and increased health risks, the California Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights was adopted as a fundamental list of experiences that every child in California would benefit from experiencing, before entering high school. Numerous studies document that children who do these things are healthier, do better in school, have better social skills and self-image, and lead more fulfilled lives.” Sonoma Co. Regional Parks spring newsletter.

According to the Outdoor Bill of Rights, every child should have the opportunity to:

1. Discover California’s Past  2. Splash in the water  3. Play in a safe place  4. Camp under the stars 5. Explore nature  6. Learn to swim  7. Play on a team  8. Follow a trail  9. Catch a fish  10. Celebrate their heritage

Friends of the Petaluma River’s current focus is on creating safe places for river related outdoor adventures at the River Heritage Center and throughout the watershed, as these photos illustrate.

Learn more about the Sonoma Regional Parks and their diverse programs.

The current issue of New York Times Magazine also makes a good case for why we should care about nature.

Day on the River is May 30th:

Once again Friends of the Petaluma will join the Petaluma Small Craft Center Coalition (PSC3) in presenting “A Day on the River”.  This free event provides a chance for community members of all ages and abilities to learn about and test “drive” a wide variety of non-motorized watercraft.  Click here to get more details on the 3rd edition of this exciting event.

Petaluma River Cleanup is May 2nd:

15th Annual Cleanup

Saturday, May 2, 2009  •  8:30am – 12:00pm  •  Petaluma Marina

Once again the organizers of the Petaluma River Cleanup Committee have been working hard to put on another spring cleanup. Free breakfast, refreshments, all necessary equipment are being provided by the Committee and community sponsors. Due to budget constraints this year’s event will not include lunch.
Show up, sign up & join community members and river aficionados.  Become a solution to pollution!

Click here for additional information and to contact event organizers.

Dolphin Charters Tour Highlights:

On April 10th Friends was again the beneficiary of a fundraising tour donated by Capt. Ronn Patterson and the folks at Dolphin Charters http://www.dolphincharters.com/. On a beautiful full moon evening nearly 40 guests enjoyed a Sunset / Full Moon river cruise and a dinner at Papa’s Taverna while contributing over $1000 to FOTPR. We thank Dolphin Charters for their generous continued support.

During the dinner Friends founder David Yearsley was formally recognized by Board members as having been awarded a U.S. Coast Guard Captains license. This event celebrated the achievement of a long term goal of David’s and will enable Friends to provide commercial river tours in the near future.

Dutra Asphalt Plant a hot topic; Decision still pending:

On April 16th the Sonoma County Planning Commission heard arguments about the projects excessive sound impacts. They deferred making a decision until their May 21st meeting. The County Board of Supervisors will then be notified of the findings and consider make their own decision sometime in June. Read the full story. Community activists have organized broad based opposition to the proposed location of the plant. Visit their excellent site.

There is still time to comment to the Board of Supervisors. You can express your ideas about this environmentally sensitive issue by writing letters to:

Sonoma County Board of Supervisors
575 Administration Drive
Santa Rosa, CA 95403

$ Help Needed:

Friends is in need of assistance to cover ongoing expenses and a grant writer for Heritage Center funding. We are asking for monetary contributions and donations of merchandise or services to use in our programs and fundraising efforts. Click the ‘Make a Donation’ button above to donate to Friends.

Volunteer Opportunities:

Volunteer opportunities to help Friends & the River Heritage Center exist in many areas:

• PR & Outreach help (web assistance, graphic art, videographer & community speakers)
• Carpentry and landscaping volunteers for restoration and renovation of the Livery Stable
• Administrative, information technology, and fundraising assistance

River Heritage Center Open House:

April 5, 2009  •  10 AM to 2 PM  •  Steamer Landing Park (end of Copeland St.)

The historic livery stable at Steamer Landing Park will once again be a center of activity when the Petaluma River Heritage Center opens its doors to the public on Sunday, April 5. Join Friends of the Petaluma River from 10am to 2pm as they welcome boaters of the Traditional Small Craft Association during a stop on their annual procession on the river. The Heritage Center will also feature traditional boats, displays describing the diverse history and natural resources of the Petaluma River watershed.

The Traditional Small Craft will arrive by river at Steamer Landing Park around 10 AM. Friends of the Petaluma River will be selling hot dogs, chips, chili, and other refreshments to benefit the River Heritage Center. Entertainment for children will include outdoor activities and storytelling. Everyone is invited to explore Steamer Landing Park with families and friends. Bring a kite to sail in the wind and enjoy open house day at the Petaluma River Heritage Center! Parking is very limited and people are encouraged to walk, bike, row, paddle or take public transit.

For more information about this event, call David Yearsley at 707-763-7756.

Where Do The Children Play?

Film & discussion – Free – Presented by Friends of the Petaluma River

Tuesday, April 7, 7:00 – 8:30 PM Petaluma Library Community Room
100 Fairgrounds Drive, Petaluma

Children today are more likely to experience a virtual world than a natural world. Exploring, discovering, and learning in nature is vital to the healthy development of children. Recent books, including “Last child in the Woods” by Richard Louv, examine the importance of nature in children’s lives. “Passion is lifted from the earth itself by the muddy hands of the young; it travels along grass-stained sleeves to the heart.” – Richard Louv.

“Where Do the Children Play?” is a one-hour documentary made for public television that examines how patterns of endless suburban development and sprawl impact children’s mental and physical health.
Unfortunately, children today are more scheduled and less likely to enjoy unstructured outdoor play. Computers, television, and video games keep children entertained with virtual worlds whose wonders have replaced those of the natural world.

“Where Do the Children Play” looks at the outdoor experiences of children in three different settings; rural, suburban and urban; and in their own voices tells how it affects their lives. It will be presented on Tuesday, April 7, at 7:00pm in the Petaluma Library Community Room.

After the presentation, David Yearsley, Director of Friends of the Petaluma River, lead a discussion and talk about plans for making outdoor experiences available at Petaluma’s new River Heritage Center.

Friends endorsed by Park & Rec to lead River Heritage Center efforts:

On March 18th the Petaluma Park and Recreation Commission unanimously approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) naming Friends of the Petaluma River as the community non-profit that will work with the City to help plan programs, implement site improvements, and renovate the historic Livery Stable at Steamer Landing Park. The MOU will now be reviewed by City staff before going to the City Council for final approval. The approval followed a presentation to the Commission on the proposed project in February. Films of the proceedings are available on the City’s Website.

Dutra / Asphalt plant hearing rescheduled by Board of Supes:

Due in large part to overwhelming community opposition the final hearing on an asphalt plant proposed for the shores of the Petaluma River has again been postponed. The Dutra Company has asked for more time to produce findings that the noise levels and emissions from the plant will not exceed set limits. Their permit hinges on approval of zoning changes to the Sonoma General plan and mitigation of impacts.

(CONTINUED TO MAY 12, 2009)
Resolution continuing the decision on request for 1) a General Plan Amendment; 2) a General Plan Text Amendment; 3) an Area Plan Amendment to the Petaluma Dairy Belt Area Plan; 4) a Zone Change; 5) a Use Permit for an asphalt batch plant, aggregate distribution facility and recycling operation; and 6) a Design Review Permit for a new industrial operation along a scenic corridor and in a scenic design area S on three parcels totaling 38 acres, as modified, for property located at 3355 Petaluma Boulevard South, Petaluma (File No. PLP04-0046)

Click here to follow developments on this proposal and learn about community opposition efforts.

River Heritage Center presentation held at Petaluma Museum:

On March 9th Friends of the Petaluma River showed the Petaluma Museum volunteer committee what the future might hold for the historic Livery Stable at Steamer Landing Park.  Using PowerPoint, pictures, and video the history of the Heritage Center project and the story of Friends efforts to provide leadership make it happen. The presentation was well received by the capacity audience.  As a special bonus Friends arranged for the large-scale model of the historic Scow schooner Alma, to be displayed in the Museums colorful river history exhibit for the month of March. Stop in to see it while its there.

Help needed – volunteer opportunities to help the Heritage Center exist in many areas:

• PR & Outreach help for community presentations & public events.
• Carpentry and related skills for restoration and renovation of the Livery Stable
• Administrative, technical, and fundraising assistance.

Please contact David Yearsley via Email or call 763-7756 to volunteer

Contributions are urgently needed for planning; grant writing, and restoration efforts. We are seeking donations in the $100 to $1,000 range to help with immediate expenses. Have your name placed on our wall of gratitude!
Checks to Friends of the Petaluma River marked “River Heritage Center” can be mailed to PO box 4928, Petaluma Ca. 94955. Donations are tax deductible. Call 763-7756 for more information on the Heritage Center Campaign.

Successful work day at Livery Stable:

We had a great team show up to help clean out the Livery Stable  Saturday Mar. 14th. Those who pitched in and got dirty included: Robert Hudson, Paul Mershdorf, Mike Simpson. George Flynn, Bonna Benedetti-Flynn, Don Rich, Sheryl Speck, and Elizabeth Howland (hope I didn’t forget anyone). A big THANK YOU to everyone who helped complete the interior demolition.

Dolphin River tours return to Petaluma:

Dolphin Charters will again offer their popular 3 hr. Petaluma River tours on April 5th, 6th, 11th & 12th. To learn more about them visit Dolphin Charters’ website.

Corporate sponsorships still available:

New and renewing corporate sponsors can benefit by seeing their name placed on our website, at our events and on our Boats. There are several levels to choose from. Click here to email us for more information on Corporate Sponsorships.