Letters to the Editor for December 1, 2008
Help preserve Jenner Headlands
Dear Neighbors,
Living in our beautiful valley we are well aware of the effort it takes to preserve its natural treasures. Sonoma Land Trust has helped on many Sonoma Valley land conservation projects. An amazing opportunity now exists to preserve 5,600 acres in an area at the other side of the county where the Russian River meets the ocean – the Jenner Headlands. This is one of the most spectacular and diverse landscapes along our coast. The Sonoma Land Trust is prepared to take ownership in the single largest conservation land acquisition in Sonoma County history. They have commitments for the $36 million purchase price and need to raise an additional $2 million to show they will be able to maintain and care for it once purchased. Please consider making a contribution to this effort. You can see photos at www.sonomalandtrust.org. Send contributions to 966 Sonoma Ave, Santa Rosa, CA 95404 or phone 526-6930.
In appreciation of our wild landscapes,
Judy Helfand
Kenwood
Property owner disputes fine
Dear Editors,
I was relieved to find that your article titled “Transient Rentals Cause a Stir” [Nov. 1, 2008] was even-handed. I am the first to say that the issue is a tricky one and your article covered both sides of the coin well. I must take issue with one part of your article, however. While it is true that we were cited for having “a gathering of 35 people or more” in September by the Sonoma County Code Violations Department, that doesn’t mean we were actually guilty of being in violation. I interviewed the shuttle bus driver that our renters hired and he stated that he drove eight passengers to the house and 10-15 more guests drove up on their own. Based on this testimony, we are appealing the fine. The fact is, this is an emotional issue and, as is often the case, people tend to exaggerate the evidence in favor of their own argument. A security camera showing grainy images of cars passing by can not see what an objective pair of eyes can and the difference between the two can be substantial.
Will Triggs
San Francisco
