Monte Rio Musings March 2012

Spring is starting to poke its nose out by way of quince flowers, tulip tree blooms and other buds that are starting to show off for us.   The tips of the redwoods are pushing out with bright green tips and just today I witnessed a hummingbird in full-on courting flight.  We are on the cusp of our busy season and its time to brush off our hospitality coats and get ready for the visiting masses.

All of us have been in the position of providing directions to a stranger, or making suggestions about where to eat, where to stay, and what to see.  The knowledge that each of us have of the Russian River area is impressive and shows a pride of our home and a willingness to share it with visitors.  In fact, the Sonoma County Tourism Bureau (www.sonomacounty.com) has a word for this – Sonovangelical – meaning one who enthusiastically shares the joys of visiting Sonoma County.

Thousands of people visit Sonoma County every year.  Many focus on the wineries and vineyards. Some head for the coast. Still others are more energetic about the river area and its many beauties and rent kayaks or hike a trail.  We Riverfolk generously share shortcuts and secluded beaches, hidden trailheads and other local treasures.  These are the kind of things that make nearly perfect memories for vacationers and every year the Russian River impresses a family from Ohio or a kid from Dubuque in such a way as to force a return visit at some point.  So, let’s get ready to do it again and in the process of creating memorable holidays for people we may never see again, let’s have fun doing it. We live in paradise so go ahead and wallow in it!

Monte Rio Chamber of Commerce Update

Annual membership renewal notices have gone in the mail and the Chamber heartily encourages returning members to get their dues in quickly.   If you are not a member and are a resident or business owner in the greater Monte Rio area (including Camp Meeker, Duncans Mills, Jenner, Villa Grande), join this group and be a part of creating a stronger community.  Individual membership is $25 and business membership $50.  For more information call (707) 865-2304.

Friends of Monte Rio   

Friends of Monte Rio will hold their second annual Monte Rio Spring Celebration and Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 7 from Noon until 2 p.m. at the Monte Rio Community Center and Koret Park.  Bring your kids, baskets and cameras. Last years event was one giant, adorable photo op!

Community Meetings & Activities

Mon. Mar. 5, 2012 6 p.m. -         Monte Rio Recreation & Park Board meeting
(MRRPD Board meetings are the first Monday of each month unless otherwise posted)

Mon. Mar. 19, 2012 6-8 p.m. – Monte Rio Waste Water Interested Citizens

Standing Activities:

Mondays – 9-10 a.m. – Pilates with Mary Black

Tuesdays – 6-7 p.m. – Yoga with Kathleen Hardy

Wednesdays-5:30-6:30 p.m. – Watchers of Weight

Saturdays – 9:30-11 a.m. – Yoga with Kathleen Hardy

All meetings take place at the Monte Rio Community Center unless otherwise noted

As always, let me know if you have an event or activity you want to publicize in Monte Rio dawnebell@comcast.net.

Babaloo – 1992-2012 – he was a good and noble beast and we will miss him