The last question of my survey was What are your favorite things to tell friends and family about Anderson Valley? The two standout answers were the community and the beauty. Comments about the community included "people are positive and welcoming," "we have supportive friends and community," "it's a pretty liberal place...[with} a progressive approach to life," "great people," "fine people," "people come to each others aid," (the latter evidenced by the volunteer ambulance and fire departments). The Variety Show was mentioned several times - and remember, this was done back in January prior to all the publicity for that event. The creative nature of the valley's residents was also noted several times. One quote that I particularly liked said that Anderson Valley was "sort of a S.F. in the country." We do have an outstanding community, constantly evidenced by all sorts of local events, from large planned ones, such as the county fair that takes place every fall, to the support shown when a member of this community passes away and people drop all to help aid the bereaved and put together services and memorials. Comments about the beauty were more straightforward - it's beautiful, it's peaceful, the redwoods, the quiet, the clean air.
Other things people share with their friends about the Valley included the quality of the schools, the great wines available, the proximity to the coast and the closeness and influence of the Bay Area. One person even said we have a "sophisticated approach to food and life without the pretense." I think the latter is well evidenced by the quality of restaurants we have to choose from as well as the great cafes and watering holes.
On another note, I want to give a plug for Duane Ray's Quality Carpet Care; he cleaned my carpets last year and he does outstanding work. Right now he is running a spring special and if you want more details, contact me directly - I have the inside scoop!