Looking into the future the Pelican feeding its young from a self-induced wound in its own
breast (as depicted, mysteriously, on the state flag of Louisiana) is accepted as an
appropriate symbol of both self-sacrifice and rebirth. Through his selfless efforts, man is
raised from the slavery of ignorance to the condition of freedom conferred by wisdom.
Given the current state of affairs in Louisiana, one hopes that the understanding of the Pelican
as a symbol shall point the way towards a new consciousness of ourselves as a whole, and lead us
to face our futures with strength, grace, wisdom and faith, to learn from our mistakes and carry
our successes and zest for living to future generations.
Letter to Professional Golfer's Association (PGA)
SOWL President
Executive Attorney
Via Federal Express
September 12, 2000
Professional Golfer's Association (PGA)
2000 PGA Boulevard Suite 2202
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33408
ATTN: Administrative Section
Ms. Karen Irvin
Phone - 561-630-1738
Fax - 561-624-7688
RE: Destruction of 196 acres of wetlands in Westwego, LA for construction/development of a PGA Compaq Classic golf course.
Dear Ms. Irvin:
Please be advised I represent SOWL, consisting of over 1,200 members concerning the above captioned. A
SOWL Fact Sheet is enclosed for your information.
In this regard, please find enclosed a copy of a New Orleans
Times Picayune article dated August 19, 2000 concerning SOWL's law suit to stop this PGA funded golf course that will destroy over 196 acres of our fast diminishing Louisiana wetlands.
This site has nearly converted from a cypress/tupelo swamp to a bottomland hardwood forested wetlands. Although the forested wetlands on the site have been altered hydrogically, they still provide good quality habitat for wildlife and resident and migratory avian species that inhabit the immediate and surrounding areas. It is well documented that these types of forested wetlands have experienced a tremendous decline in Louisiana. Enclosed is a United States Department of Interior letter of March 26, 1999 and an EPA letter of March 26, 1999 for your review.
It is SOWL's opinion that the PGA should adopt a policy to withdraw the agreement to contribute $10 to $12 million to help and develop this golf course because of its destruction of Louisiana wetlands.
SOWL would appreciate a response to this request within 24 days so SOWL can make the proper determinations on whether PGA should be brought into this and other future litigations and also to advise our members, associates and friends of your decision.
Sincerely,
Executive Attorney
Save Our Wetlands, Inc. (S.O.W.L.)
cc: Eddie Jordan, Esq.
United States Attorney
Richard Ieyoub, Esq.
Louisiana State Attorney General
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