Letters to the Editor
Editor:
Changing the garden opening time from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. because of “noise complaints” raises a very simple question: What noise? Clipping plants with hand shears? Pulling weeds? Watering? Planting? These are ordinary gardening activities, not unreasonable disturbances.
The garden sits directly next to freeway traffic, with airplanes regularly passing overhead. It is difficult to believe that someone quietly tending vegetables at 7 a.m. is the real noise problem.
More importantly, were these complaints ever actually investigated? What specific noise was reported? When did it occur? How long did it last? Was anyone identified as causing a disturbance? Before restricting access for every gardener, there should be evidence that an actual problem exists.
The earlier opening time also serves an important purpose. At 7 a.m., temperatures are cooler, and UV exposure is lower. By 8 a.m. and later, especially during warmer months, both heat and sun exposure increase. For older residents, that extra hour can make a significant difference.
If someone is playing loud music, shouting, or using noisy equipment, address that individual behavior. Do not penalize everyone who quietly waters, weeds, trims, and tends their plants. A community garden is meant to be used. Restore the 7 a.m. opening time and deal with legitimate noise problems individually. Heinz Schulmeister, Mutual 3 Editor’s Note: At its Sept. 22 meeting, the GRF Board voted to implement new Community Gardens operating hours: 8 a.m.dusk, seven days a week. The policy is currently posted for a 28-day review (see page 6). The GRF Board will discuss the garden hours at a special meeting on Friday, Oct. 2, at 2 p.m. in Clubhouse 4.
Editor:
I would like to thank Lynn Baidack and Susan Hopewell for their continual support and acknowledgement of our country by putting flags out in their Mutual by Building 62 for special holidays honoring our soldiers and citizens.
They have been doing this for years and their patriotism is contagious and appreciated. Thank you.
Nancy Tye, Mutual 3
