From: Pam Tichy
To: Mary Gourley
Subject: Agenda Item 10 - Calder Creek
Date: Tuesday, February 01, 2022 1:10:18 PM
In reading the City of Sebastopol’s plans for Ives Park, I noticed that one of the reasons for the possibility of removing Polly Field is that the ball field offers" limited access to a number of community members”.
I just want to talk a little about that.
I have played in the Sebastopol Adult Coed Softball League for 42 Years.
I have also coached a few Little League teams at Ives Park.
The friendships that have been forged on the field during those 42 years are something that there is no words to describe how much they are treasured!
As for the Adult Coed Softball League, from July to November five nights a week, six teams show up (with family and friends) and three softball games are played.
People from all walks of life can participate in the coed league, and do.
Sometimes if you show up on game night, you will find it is a multi generational activity.
Parents playing on a team with their adult children, sometimes grandparents are in the stands cheering them on, or tending to the next generation of ballplayers!
I have watched kids" grow up” at the field and now they are playing ball.
I have also coached Little Leaguers who are now playing softball on the same field.
So, to trivialize the usage of the field by saying that it is used by a limited or small number of people is simply WRONG!
That being said, the participants and fans of the ballgames, who come from all over the county, patronize local restaurants and or pubs.
Please choose a plan that does NOT include the removal of Polley Field….The "Crown Jewel” at Ives Park! Sincerely,
Pam Tichy