The Sun was shining, the Wind was blowing, the Water was navigated by boaters from the Marina, and many in the Community walked in to Steamer Landing Park on a quiet and peaceful trail to the planned new River Heritage Center in the old historic Livery Stable building.

Petaluma River old and heritage met Petaluma River 21st Century new. Children, adults and folks of all ages enjoyed a great open house and outdoor experience.

In the midst of the River Heritage Center open house at the Livery Stable, sponsored by Friends of the Petaluma River, were kite flying, conversations while sitting on hay bales, and visits inside the old Livery Stable building with plans for historic and modern activities. Representatives from the Southern Sonoma County Resource Conservation District talked to folks about our Petaluma River Watershed. A story teller sponsored by Copperfield Books told children's stories. And lunch was served outside - chicken hotdogs, chili, chips, drinks and ice cream from local providers. All in all, I would say the Friends of the Petaluma River provided a wonderful opportunity for boat and river enthusiasts and interested community members to visit, commune and enjoy a Sunday at the River Heritage Center.

The Livery Stable's location in Steamer Landing Park close to downtown Petaluma, the old trolley trestle that I understand is planned for restoration and revitalization for trolley rides downtown, the Art Center of the Petaluma Arts Council in the old train depot, and what I understand are 5 schools within walking distance to possibly anchor educational participation, plus the planned boutique hotel in the old Silk Mill will make for a great balance of revitalized Petaluma history plus fun activities and events related to the Petaluma River and our local waterways.

To reach the River Heritage Center that will be headquartered at the historic Livery Stable, go to Steamer Landing Park and follow the trail toward McNear Peninsula. Just down the peninsula, along the river, is Shollenberger Park. Protecting natural resources and wildlife habitat in that area will be key in helping with any potential for displaced wildlife from the McNear Peninsula area as the City's downtown continues to grow and revitalize with more people coming and going.

As Petaluma becomes a 21st Century destination for visitors and new families, the core downtown and the SMART rail system will help realize a vision that will surely be unique to Petaluma and Sonoma County. While I was having fun helping out with serving lunch today, I saw our elected officials, Vice Mayor Teresa Barrett, Councilmember Mike Healy and his family members, and Councilmember Tiffany Renee and her family stop by.

For more info about the River Heritage Center, visit the web site of Friends of the Petaluma River, www.friendsofthepetalumariver.org.