We ARE Marina del Rey has just launched a fundraising drive this week seeking funds to enable them to file project appeals with the California Coastal Commission and to continue community outreach to locals, county residents and neighborhood groups. Up until now, our group has operated on minimal funds and the generosity of a handful of volunteers. But it will not be sufficient to take the next required legal and regulatory steps.

Co-directors Nancy Vernon Marino and David Barish alone have spent thousands of hours over the last year attending hearings, submitting opposition letters, writing articles and garnering support from locals and the greater community at large.

And FOUR significant County projects up for approval in March and April of 2010. These projects take public land used for public recreation and hand it over to private developers for residential and commercial use. No green space or parks to match the two-fold increase in residents, no true recreational initiatives for locals or County residents. Marina del Rey is public land meant for public recreation. It is a unique and special area that should be preserved and enhanced, not build out to the max like New York City.

Please support Nancy and David's efforts by making a tax-deductible contribution of $50 or more. You can donate online or send a check, payable to IHCenter/We ARE Marina del Rey to We ARE Marina del Rey, PO BOX 9096, Marina del Rey, CA 90295.

If you have any questions about donating or about what the heck is going on with the development here, please email Nancy or David at info@wearemdr.com or call 310-490-1983