Letters to the Editor

Editor:
In the article entitled "Underground Garage EIR gets OK," (August, 2003) Carol Dimmick wrote, "In making its decision to certify the environmental report, commissioners also dismissed concerns that the possible removal of a dozen 100-year-old sycamore trees from the Music Concourse and the traffic impacts were adequately studied."

On the contrary, the SF Planning Commissioners were extremely concerned about the SF Recreation and Park Department's plan to cut down the historic Concourse Bowl trees. They were so concerned that on July 24 they refused to certify the DEIR until a special "improvement measure" on behalf of the preservation and conservation of these trees was added. The measure states: "The CCA (Concourse Authority) shall work cooperatively with the Recreation and Park Commission to actively preserve and protect to the maximum extent possible existing mature elm, sycamore trees and any other significant trees currently existing in the Concourse Bowl."

Unfortunately, Rec. and Park has not yet modified their plans and to date the proposal to cut down the trees is still alive.

The final choice to save or destroy these magnificent historic trees lies with the SF Recreation and Park Commission, the SF Board of Supervisors and the mayor. If you wish to save these trees, write to them ASAP.
Margaret Mori
Member, American Society of Landscape Architects

Editor:
Washington High School has two Dragon Boat teams, which practice at Lake Merced every Sunday. We are currently preparing for the 2003 CDBA High School Dragon Boat Championships and are planning on entering two teams, as we have more than 60 students in the sport.

I am hoping philanthropists or local organizations can help us acquire funds for our ongoing expenses and competitions. School funds are not available because dragon boating is not a recognized AAA sport. For more information, call me at (415) 648-5410.
Dan Yee
Math Teacher, Sponsor of Washington's Dragon Boat Team