With this issue we will begin publishing an expanded “Tidings” on a quarterly basis. At the same time we will increase the use our “alerts” and other media resources to bring you important news on a more frequent basis. We believe that these changes will improve the delivery of breaking news. It will also free up time spent on computers. Use that extra time on the River!
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.
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| U.S. Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey, State Assemblyman Jared Huffman, and State Senator Mark Leno |
A diverse and overflowing crowd attendedl |
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!
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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.
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| Event emcee Mary Dooley |
Scott Brodhun welcomes the crowd |
Isaiah and Ian present their table’s list |
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.
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| Penny Wells |
Elizabeth Mori |
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.
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| A boatload of participants |
The kids score! | Proud parents |
Chairman Bob Caruso |
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.
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| The Petaluma Paddlers’ display at “DOR III” |
Day on the River fun at Foundry Wharf docks |
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.
