What’s new on the “Petaloo”
Hello Again River Friends;
There is a lot happening on the “Petaloo”. As the weather improves and the days get longer we want to provide more opportunities for folks to get out on the River. Here are a few of them :

Events

Friday night flotilla :
This 3 rd Friday event, loosely based on the S.F. Critical Mass model, is a no host outing in boats (rather than on bicycles) that gets folks on the water and the weekend off to a fun start. The starting point is the Petaluma Marina launch ramp at 6PM. Come early (½ hr. or so) if you want to stage a car or trailer at the destination. All nature powered small craft are welcome. Each individual or group is responsible for their own safety can choose their itinerary, while the overall attitude is cheerful cooperation among participants.

This month’s Nautical Mass, ” Jazz on the Deck”, will be on June 16 th and will feature a trip to the turning basin for the Apple Box’s weekly summer music event. Stay for dinner at one of the local restaurants if you like, but bring a light if you plan to paddle back to the marina under the ¾ moon.

First Nautical Mass a “splashing success” :
The first Nautical Mass, took place on May 19 th and was indeed “Big Fun on the Bayou”, for those courageous enough to brave the elements. As you may recall we had a late season storm front bring some moisture that evening, but the 8 hearty participants who did make the voyage were rewarded with a spectacular “sun shower” upon arrival at Papa’s Taverna, followed by great food and hot Cajun music. By all accounts the evening was a splashing success as the following photos will attest.

Family “Mess About in Boats” :
We have had several requests from parents to find ways to get children out on the river in small boats. In response “Friends” is planning to take a cue from the famous book “Wind in the Willows” where the Water Rat states;
“There is nothing -absolutely nothing- half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats”.
I am proposing the first “Family Mess About” on Sunday, June 18 th , Father’s Day . We will meet at the Petaluma Marina at 10 AM for a paddle or row to Shollenberger Park and back. Participants should bring some picnic items to enjoy on the banks of the River. Plan to return to the launch ramp between 1 and 2 PM . I can arrange for some rowboats, canoes, and equipment for folks without watercraft of their own.

Let me know if you are interested in participating in the “Mess About”.
Call 707 763-7756 or e-mail

That’s all for now folks. There is more to report but “time, tide, (& work) wait for no man”. Look for more news items in the next edition of “River Tidings”
In the mean time·
Celebrate and Conserve
Dave Yearsley
Friends of the Petaluma River

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