mar 2010 san diego sierra

7/27/2019 Mar 2010 San Diego Sierra

1/16Explore, Enjoy and Protect the PlanetExplore, Enjoy and Protect the Planet

HIISIERRANI RR NSierra Club San Diego Chapter Serving Imperial and San Diego CountiesWorking To Preserve The Special Nature of San Diego for Over Half A Century

Vol 69 No. 2 Visit our website at: www.sandiego.sierraclub.org March/April 2010

Recently the San Diego region was namedthe second most popular area that peoplewould like to live. And no wonder, withour mild annual climate, sandy beaches,beautiful mountains and breathtakingdeserts, San Diego offers the best of thenatural environment supporting some ofthe greatest ecological diversity anywherein the nation.

Since the Chapter was founded 61 yearsago, we have been active in the preserva-tion of San Diegos environment. Fromefforts by members to enlist public supportfor conservation programs such as theTorrey Pine in 1948 to the prevention ofpower lines invading Anza Borrego StatePark in 2008. The San Diego Chapter hasplayed a major role in the welfare of ourcommunities by representing your visionfor San Diego - clean air and water, healthywildlife, and protected special places whilepromoting livable, walkable, and workablecommunities.

Over the years, businesses, local, state andfederal government agencies, elected offi-cials, and the public have come to recog-nize that the Sierra Club is truly a force tobe reckoned with because we have the factsand science on our side and were notafraid to protect what we value. As youknow, fighting for what we value is a huge

expense, eventhough manyexperts, scien-tists, lawyers andvolunteers pro-vide their servic-es to the SierraClub for free.Thats why weannually turn toour membersevery March by

asking for yourfinancial help,enabling theChapter to con-tinue our goodwork.

The money returned to the Chapterfrom your National membership duesis tiny - less than $3.

When you give directly to your localChapter, your dollars do more becausewe use your contribution to help lever-age thousands of hours of local volun-

teer effort.Your donations, your volunteer work,your responsible votes, and your exam-ple to your neighbors have shown usjust how much you value our organiza-tion and programs.

Now is the time that you can show yourappreciation for the work your Chapterdoes. Your support is an indication ofhow you value our organization, pro-grams, and the successful work that wedo on the local level. Please let yourChapter continue the good work for

our environment.

Watch for your fund appeal letter toarrive in the next few days. But whywait? Help us out, right now, by send-ing a contribution - or better yet con-tribute NOW by going towww.sandiego.sierraclub.org and click-ing on the Donate Now button. This isa safe, secure, and easy way to con-tribute. Please donate and we will dothe work!

Parks in PerilVoter Approval of New Access Fee WouldGrant Californians Free, Year-Round State

Parks Admission. Supporters officiallylaunched the volunteer signature-gatheringcampaign for the California State Parks andWildlife Conservation Trust Fund Act of 2010statewide ballot measure to create a stable, reable and adequate source of funding to protestate parks, conserve wildlife and increase puaccess to these valuable natural resources. Th

initiative will give California vehicles free admsion to state parks in exchange for a new $18vehicle license fee, which will be specifically dicated to state parks and wildlife conservation

Volunteers from the California State Parks

Foundation, Sierra Club California, Audubon

California and many other organizations and

groups will join paid staff in gathering more

than 477,000 valid signatures by mid-April to

qualify the measure for the Nov. 2 statewide b

lot. To join the volunteer signature-gathering

campaign, please visit www.calparks.org

With persistent underfunding placing our st

parks in peril, we are thrilled to see so many vunteers willing to devote their time and energ

to gathering the signatures needed to place a

measure on the ballot that would create a ded

cated source of funding to protect our parks

wildlife, said Elizabeth Goldstein, President,

California State Parks Foundation. The outpo

ing of public support for the ballot measure

demonstrates Californians commitment to p

tecting our parks and wildlife for generations

come The California State Parks and Wildlife

Conservation Trust Fund Act of 2010 was dev

oped by a statewide coalition committed to p

tecting state parks and natural resources.Californias 278 state parks are priceless publi

assets, important economic engines and a vit

legacy for our children and grandchildren.

However, persistent budget cuts are starving

state parks, causing them to fall severely behi

in needed maintenance and repairs. The mea

ure would establish a dedicated and reliable

funding stream for state parks and natural

resources to ensure they can be enjoyed for g

erations to come. To volunteer locally, contac

Marty Benson: [email protected]

917-842-8806


2/16March/April 2010 Hi Sierran San Diego2

Weathering the Storms

- All Hands on Deck!The Sierra Club has not been spared the

ravages of the recession.

Nationally and locally, membership and

donations are down as people have tight-

ened their belts. This has led to painful

cuts at all levels, including major reduc-

tions in financial support from the

National to the Chapter. In the San Diego

office, we made the difficult decision to

layoff one of only two staff people. Cheryl

Reiff has served most every function over

her more than ten years with the Chapter.

Before that she was a volunteer and she is

now looking forward to catching up on

the volunteer things she didn't have time

for as a staff person. The Executive

Committee sponsored a native tree plant-

ed in her name at Mission Trails Park. We

wish her well.

This loss also means we need your help

more than ever. The Sierra Club remains

the largest group in our region, but simplybeing the biggest, doesn't make us the

best. Our volunteers can. Can you spare

some time once/week in the office in

Kearny Mesa? Or be on call for special

projects? We've got a new volunteer needs

list (see page 11) and many things can be

done from home or via phone and email.

If you like educational presentations,

there's an opening for a volunteer to take

over hosting Thursday pot luck mixers at

the office. Call or email

me for more info.

The Political Committee

is also seeking new vol-

unteers.

In this election year, the

Committee creates and reviews candidate

questionnaires, interviews candidates, andmake recommendations for endorsements

The Club is the only environmental organ

ization that uses the full array of advocacy

techniques available to the public in

American democracy. Any member can

volunteer and play a role in the endorse-

ments process to help educate candidates

and discern their views on Sierra Club

policies.

Every Chapter Committee and Group has

a need and way for you to help.

Please call me to discuss where you can fit

in and make a difference.

HIISIERRANI RR NSierra Club San Diego Chapter

8304 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. #101San Diego, CA 92111(858) 569-6005

Editor

Judy Thomas (619) [email protected]

Creative Director

Scott Thomas (619) [email protected]

Advertising

[email protected]

Hi Sierran Committee ChairEllen [email protected]

Conservation

[email protected]

Meetings and [email protected]

One Club Listserv

To subscribe go to:http://lists.sierraclub.org/scripts/wa.exe?index

March/April 2010

USPS - 896140

The Hi Sierran is published bi-monthly by the San

Diego Chapter of the Sierra Club, 8304 Clairemont

Mesa Blvd. #101, San Diego, CA 92111, for

members in San Diego and Imperial counties.

$1 of the annual membership fee is for a sub-scription to the Hi Sierran. Periodicals Postage Paid

at San Diego, CA. Postmaster: Send address

changes to Hi Sierran, Sierra Club Member

Services PO BOX 52968, Boulder, CO 80322-2968.

Address Correction?Send your current mailing label and

your correct address to:Sierra Club

PO BOX 52968Boulder, CO 80322-2968

Or email membership number and

your correct address to:[email protected]

Please allow 4-6 weeks for processing. IN THIS ISSUE:Chapter Outings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Cross Country Ski/Bus Schedule . . . . 9

Monthly Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Chapter Activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Explore, Enjoy and Protect the Planet

Michael Brune To Be theNational Sierra Club'sNext Executive DirectorMike comes to the Sierra Club from

Rainforest Action Network (RAN), where

he has served as executive director for

seven years and gained a e reputation as "ahard-nosed activist with a twist." Mike led

a winning campaign at age 26 to convince

Home Depot to stop selling wood fromendangered forests. Time magazine called

that victory "the top environmental story

of 1999." Under Mike's leadership, RAN

won more than a dozen landmark com-

mitments from America's largest corpora-tions, including Citi, Goldman Sachs,

Bank of America, Kinko's, Boise Cascade,

and Lowe's.

Mike is exactly what the Sierra Club andthe environmental movement need right

now. Mike has the rare combination of

activist fire, managerial savvy, and crystal-

clear vision to lead the Club through themost critical period in our history. Mike's

first official day will be in mid-March.

Please join me in welcoming Mike to the

Sierra Club. You can get to know Mike

and send him a welcome note atwww.sierraclub.org/ED .


3/16March/April 2010 Hi Sierran San Diego 3

Help Get theWord OutDo you like to

go to events?

Street Fairs?Parades?

Concerts?

Walks/Runs?

You can bothattend and help

out by volun-

teering for our

"Tabling Team." Tabling volunteers tak

our Outreach Kit to events, and set outflyers, sign-up sheets, and petitions. At

some events, they sell Sierra Club mer-

chandise. Times and locations vary. You

can choose an event in your area thatsuits your schedule.

Help get the word out - sign-up for our

Tabling Team!

Call or email Richard Millerat 858-569-6005 or

[email protected]

Wind Zero TargetsImperial CountyA quiet desert community is being threat-

ened with a proposed monumental disas-

trous military-style training facility.

Many members of the chapter have joinedImperial County

communities to form

People Against WindZero (PAWZ) to

deliver a strongprotest to the

Planning

Commissioners and

Board of Supervisorsagainst what sounds

like a paramilitary

training ground and

large racetrack in an

area designated as

residential. The Wind Zero Group hasacquired 944 acres that extends from

Interstate 8 to State Hwy 98 about five

miles north of the Mexican border. Theproposal includes development of this

desert acreage in a FEMA designated

floodway into a layout including 5 two

story and 5 indoor shooting ranges for up

to 20 shooters at a time, operating from 8AM to 10 PM and 16 shooting ranges to

accommodate night-vision training. 15 ft

high concrete walls would surround these

ranges. Other activities include use of a an

aircraft landing strip, a 6.1 mile competi-tive racetrack, helicopters landings to 10

PM, practice assaults into a 50 ft burn

tower, a 12,000 gal above ground fuel

storage and other high intensity usesincompatible with the residential zoning

across the street. A Wind Zero brochure

lists combat medical training and Arabic

translators as being important parts of thetraining. The project Draft E I R is out

and has a comment deadline of March

29th, 2010.

PAWZ members point out that militarystyle training should be done on military

bases not adjacent to residences. Their

arguments are clear: The noise from up

to 420 persons firing weapons at a time,

vehicular racing and helicopter/aircraftactivity would continue fourteen hours a

day; wildlife and pets will be negatively

impacted; it would be emotionally harm-

ful to residents, especially those that havePTSD or have experienced war or violence

earlier in their lives; there are significant

cultural resources on the land; and the

negligible economic benefit to the com-

munity. The proposal would increasetraffic and air pollution and pose serious

adverse impacts on limited groundwater

resources.

PAWZ is planning a protest rally andmarch to the property on March 20th, at

11 am, fol-

lowed by aspring time

desert flowerwalk. The

group is cir-

culating a

petition toresidents and

concerned

members of

the public,

and will pres-ent their comments to the government

officials and at public hearings in thefuture. For further information, contact

Susan Massey at 760-356-5649 or emailher at [email protected].

SAVE the DATEJune 12, 2010

Please join the SAN DIEGO CHAPTER at our

Annual Gala Celebrationas we honor

Our Wildlands LegacyKearny Mesa Ramada

Conference Center & Hotel

Join us as we make this an unforgettable evening of inspiration and reverence, honoring

those who have contributed their time and effort as stewards of the environment.

Keynote Speaker and Award Recipient

Mark Jorgensen"Ranger Going Rogue"

Former Park Superintendent Anza Borrego Desert State Park

Special Presentations will also be made to recognize those who have

contributed to the degradation of our environment!

Sponsorship Opportunities Available.

For more event information contact Richard at 858-569-6005 [email protected]

Sierra Club members from both Imperial and San Diego Counties atplanning meeting for People Against Wind Zero



You have a personal invitation to join us for a weekend that may influence the rest of your life. This annual event is one of the two big SierraClub happenings of each year (the other is the Wilderness Basics Course). The Nature Knowledge Workshop (NKW) combines education andappreciation for our precious, dwindling natural resources with a sharing and a building of new friendships. We hope you will leave the week-end with a renewed vigor towards a society respecting and preserving all living co-habitants.

Location: The Sierra Clubs scenic Foster Lodge on Mt. Laguna (elev. 5,800 ft., San Diego County)

Date: June 12-14, 2010. (Friday evening through Sunday noon).

Cost: Before May 1st, $125 per Sierra Club Member, $135 Non-Member (after May 1, $140/$150)

This covers:

1. A comprehensive 190-page Naturalists Manual.2. Six full & nutritious meals created by Sheena Myers and Staff.

3. Two nights lodging either in the Lodge or tenting on the grounds.

4. A stompin, clappin Bluegrass concert on Friday evening.

5. Half-day nature hikes led through chaparral, forest & meadow ecosystems.

6. Evening workshops on a variety of subjects, given by biologists & specialists. Subjects includeplants, mammals, birds, insects, reptiles, Indian history & lore, ecology/conservation, astronomy,

population issues and more.

7. Yoga & Meditation sessions.

8. An NKW T-shirt to each participant.Need further proof? Ask anyone who has previously participated. The NKW usually fills up early, followed by a long waiting list.Please apply promptly. For more information, call Lee or Fern at (619) 583-3261.

To register, send the following to Lee Siegel, 5224 Prosperity Lane, San Diego, CA 92115-2143:

1. This filled-out coupon (or a coupon for each person applying).

2. A check: $125 per Sierra Club Member, $135 per Non-Member, payable to Sierra Club. (after May 1, $140/$150)

3. Two self-addressed, stamped envelopes (for two separate mailings) if you do not have e-mail.

Name _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Address _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

City/State/Zip_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _Phone (home) (Work) _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Amount Sent ($125/Member, $135/Non-Member, payable to Sierra Club) _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Sierra Club Membership Number(s) _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Email address(es)_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Age(s) _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Where did you grow up? _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Occupation (previous, if retired) _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

June 4 - 6 and June 11- 13



Should You Order the Salmon?By Bill CollinsWheres the salmon from? I asked the server at a Carmel restaurant.

Its from somewhere up north, the

server winged it.

Wild? I persisted.

Yes, the server replied, although

the fish was actually farmed inScotland.

80% of the salmon served in restau-

rants is farmed, and even salmonpurported to be wild caught is,

according to one survey, usually

raised in farms where they may host

cancer-causing chemicals, red dyes

and parasites such as sea lice.

Restaurateurs know that customers

are more likely to ask if the fish is fresh or frozen, rather than whether it is wild caught

or raised in dense pens where the fish are fed poultry litter, hydrolyzed fish feathers and

antibiotics that remain in their flesh.

Salmon farms, called floating pig farms, are both a cause and result of the decimation

of wild salmon populations. Some farmed salmon escape their pens, mate with native

species and transmit parasites and diseases. Escaped farmed salmon so devastated its

rivers that Norway resorted to poisoning rivers to reboot by eliminating the infectedsea life.

Farms are unsustainable, as couch potato salmon are often fed smaller fish like sar-

dines instead of a natural diet. Unless fed a synthetic pigment, they lack the pink color

consumers expect. Fish farm waste smothers the sea floor with bacteria that depriveshellfish of oxygen.

Even farmed salmon is a source of Omega 3, the healthful fatty acids doctors recom-

mend. Some say these fats are so beneficial that its worth ingesting the farmed salmon,even if they contain ten times more toxins like dioxins and PCBs than their wild coun-terparts.

These good fats can be obtained from sardines, mackerel, krill oil, or other fish oils.

Smaller fish like sardines are also lower on the food chain and therefore less likely to

contain heavy metals like mercury.

How can consumers know whether the salmon is farmed or wild? Atlantic salmon is

farmed and usually imported from Norway, New Zealand, British Columbia, Scotland

or Chile. The fuel to fly in the fresh salmon exceeds the energy value in the fish, to say

nothing of the pollution and greenhouse gases.

If the salmon, whether in a restaurant or grocery, is listed as Atlantic, its farmed.

Alaskan salmon are wild and fished sustainably.

Because populations of local Chinook and Coho salmon have crashed by 80 to 95%,

local fisheries have been closed for two seasons and local-caught salmon isunavailable.

Congress is considering legislation, HR 3503 (McDermott-WA) to restore the once-

robust salmon and steelhead fisheries of the Columbia and Snake Rivers in the Pacific

Northwest. Wild salmon travel as much as 4,000 miles from the ocean to return to thevery stream where they were hatched, only to encounter insurmountable dams. The

legislation broaches the controversial idea of removing dams that are probably the

major cause for the dramatic decline of these once abundant, iconic species.

Bill Collins chairs the Loma Prieta Chapters Water Committee

National Club ElectionComing This SpringThe annual election for the Club's Boaof Directors is now underway.

Those eligible to vote in the national

Sierra Club election will receive in the

mail (or by Internet for those who chothe electronic delivery option) your

national Sierra Club ballot. This will

include information on the candidates

and where you can find additional infomation on the Club's website.

The Sierra Club is a democratically str

tured organization at all levels. The Clu

requires the regular flow of views on picy and priorities from its grassroots

membership in order to function well.

Yearly participation in elections at all

Club levels is a major membership obl

gation. Your Board of Directors is

required to stand for election by themembership. This Board sets Club pol

and budgets at the national level and

works closely with the Executive Directand staff to operate the Club. Voting fo

candidates who express your views on

how the Club should grow and change

both a privilege and responsibility of

membership.

Members frequently state that they don

know the candidates and find it difficu

to vote without learning more. You ca

learn more by asking questions of yourgroup and chapter leadership and othe

experienced members you know.

Visit the Club's election website: :

www.sierraclub.org/bod/2010election/

This site provides links to additional

information about candidates, and the

views on a variety of issues facing the

Club and the environment.

You should use your own judgment by

taking several minutes to read the ballo

statement of each candidate. Then mayour choice and cast your vote. Even iyou receive your election materials in t

mail, please go to the user-friendly

Internet voting site to save time and

postage.

Alternatively, you will find the ballot is

quite straightforward and easy to mark

and mail.



. . . Save

theChapterSome

Green.Did you know

that you can

always read the current issue of

the Hi Sierran on our

Chapter web site?Just go to the home page atsandiego.sierraclub.organd click on the "Newsletters" linkin the right-hand column.

If you like reading the online ver-sion, remember that you can optout of getting a paper copy.To opt out, contact the Chapteroffice 858-569-6005 [email protected]

2010 Schedule

Only One Left!Saturday March 13 . . . . . . . . . . . .10 AM 3 PM

This will be our fourth year to offer

this fantastic opportunity to observethe whales up close and experience the

best of nature. These trips fill up fast

and no one has ever complained about

not seeing enough whales!

These trips are during the height of the

grey whale migration along our coast

and your opportunity to see whales

from afar and up close. Past trips haveseen as many as 15

whales. Some

whales will still be

migrating south,

and others will bestarting their trip back north. You will

also get to see the Coronado Island (we

do NOT go on the island) animal resi-

dents which include the sea lions,elephant seals, harbor seals, various

shorebirds and some seabirds nesting

on the cliffs. We will also have onboarda marine mammal biologist, naturalist

and researcher of gray whale conserva-tion to lead our trip and provide inter-

esting facts about the creatures we

observe.

The boat is modern, spacious, and

has a comfortable galley which seats35 people. Unlike other cruises, we

dont pack you on like sardines;

we have limited these trips to 80

passengers as opposed to hundreds.

$65 Adults, $55 Students,$50 Children (13 and under)

All reservations are made on a firstcome-FIRST PAID basis only.

RESERVATIONS ARE NOTCONFIRMED UNTIL PAY-

MENT HAS BEENRECEIVED!

To reserve your space, emailto: [email protected]

or by calling 858-569-6005. To makepayment by credit card (Visa/MC), go

to www.sandiego.sierraclub.org andclick on DONATE NOW. When

prompted where to apply your payment,select "Whale Watch". This is a safe,

secure and easy way to make a payment.To pay by check, make payable to

"Sierra Club San Diego Chapter", andmail to: Whale Watching Trip,

San Diego Chapter Sierra Club,8304 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, Ste. 101,San Diego, CA 92111. Please include

the name, address, email, and telephonenumber of each person. No tickets are

required, by making payment you areofficially registered and will receive

notification and confirmation.

MAKES A GREATGIFT FOR

FAMILY AND FRIENDS!

Including a viewof the Coronado Islandsand their unique wildlife

GRAY WHALE FILMSHOWINGCome join fellow Sierra Club members

for this special viewing of the acclaimed

film Jean-Michel Cousteau's OceanAdventures: Gray Whale Obstacle Course.

Through Jean-Michel's observations, the

film illuminates the great need for better

conservation of the oceans' rich naturaltreasures.

Jean-Michel Cousteau and his team follow

gray whales from their birthplace in the

warm waters of Baja California, Mexico,to their nutrient-rich feeding grounds in

the Bering Sea in Alaska in order to docu-

ment and understand the variety of natu-

ral and man-made hurdles that these crea-

tures must overcome in order to survive.The amazing expedition unlocks seldom-

seen views of tragedy and triumph along a

route that is nearly 12,000 miles long.We will be showing the film on Thursday,March 4 at 7 pm at 8322 Clairemont Mesa

Blvd, Classroom #2. The classroom is

located in the building next to the

Chapter offices. Please RSVP toRichard at 858-569-6005

or [email protected].


7/16 7March/April 2010 Hi Sierran San Diego

April 19 & May 1, 2010San Diego Chapter Outings Leader Training

The Sierra Club Statement of Purpose begins, "To explore,

enjoy, and protect the wild places of the Earth" In order

to more effectively carry out this purpose, we need you asan outing leader.

To become a Level I Chapter Outings Leader(Lead on-trail day hikes and car camps) you must:

1. Have been on at least fourSierra Club outings.2. Be a Sierra Club Member3. Be at least 18 years of age.4. Attend all of both days of Level I ChapterOuting Leader training.5. Obtain a Red Cross Standard First Aidcard or equivalent before proceedingto step 6.6. Plan, publish and execute beforeMay 1, 2011, two outings on whichexperienced leaders evaluate you.

Level I Chapter Outings Leader Training involves completion

of BOTH of the following sessions:

Session One: Monday, April 19th, 5:30pm 9:30pm at the club office8304 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., #101, San Diego, CA 92111.Bring note-taking materials.

Session Two: Saturday, May 1st, 8:30am to about 5:00pm

How To Sign Up: Send email beginning March 1st [email protected]. Include your full name, postal mailingaddress, phone number and your Sierra Club member number(appears above you name on Sierra Magazine) in your message.

You will receive confirmation of your sign up. The training class will be

limited to the first 20 qualified persons who sign up. Sign-ups will beaccepted beginning March 1st and will continue until the class is full oruntil 6:00pm Monday, April 12th, whichever comes first. If you do nothave email, you may sign up by calling (858) 272-4495 between 9amand 9pm beginning March 1st.

If you are not a Sierra Club member, or have not been one long enoughto acquire a member number, you may not attend this training.Training is held twice a year. The next training will be in Fall 2010.Information on how to join the Sierra Club can be found on page 14 ofthis newsletter or online at www.sierraclub.org.

No late registrations or walk-ins will beaccepted for this training.

Sierra SinglesHikes, Bonfires, Concerts,

Volleyball, Movies, Picnics,

Dancing, Car Camps and more.

For more information,call (858) 657-0502 or [email protected]

Annual Email MembershipOnly $10.00

Enjoy!!

www.sandiego.sierrclub.org/singles

Do Your Part forEarth Day 2010 Volunteer at our Booth

2010 will bring us the 40th anniversary of "Earth Day"

and the 20th anniversary for the EarthFair in BalboaPark set for Sunday, April 18th. With the theme "Do

Your Part" it's not hard to find ways to make a differ-

ence at the largest and oldest Earth Day celebration in

the U.S.

Each year this event draws 70,000 people and is pro-

duced with over 400 volunteers. EarthFair features more than 350 exhibitors, special

theme areas, a Food Pavilion, a special Kids Activity Area, three entertainment venues,

the Childrens Earth Parade, the eARTh Gallery art show, and the Cleaner CarConcourse. Be green and avoid traffic by riding your bike, taking public transit, or

using the off-site lots and free shuttles.

The Chapter is always looking for volunteers to help at our Earth Day booth. With

time commitments of as little as a few hours, you can still have enough time to see the

exhibits. Call the Chapter offices at 858-569-6005 or [email protected] if you would like to help.

Earth Day, which is celebrated in the U.S. on April 22nd, was created to raise and

inspire awareness & appreciation for the Earth's environment. Founded by U.S. SenatorGaylord Nelson as an environmental teach-in in 1970, Earth Day is celebrated in manycountries around the world. The date itself is important as it marks the start of Spring

in the Northern Hemisphere and Autumn in the Southern Hemisphere, however The

United Nations celebrates Earth Day on the March equinox, normally on March 20th, a

date set in 1969 by peace activist John McConnell.



MARCH 3-M6CWEDNESDAY IN MTNS:SECRET CANYON TRAILLdr. Dale Laney 619-574-6838

We will walk along the lower Pine ValleyCreek bed. Meet at trail head at 9 AM. TakeHwy 8 east to Japatul Valley Rd. Go South 5.4miles and turn left on Lyons Valley Rd. Go 1.4miles and park in lot on left. National ForestAdventure pass or Golden Ages pass required.Likely to have a stream crossing (and ticks inSpring and Summer). Bring 2 qts of water,

lunch, rain gear, warm clothes.

MARCH 10DAYHIKE (M6C) COWLES MOUNTAIN6:30 EVENING HIKELeader: Diane Purkey: 619-865-8598

Assistant: Christine DriscollTake a quick, fun hike up the Big Rock side ofSan Diego's highest point. Learn about thechaparral world by flashlight. Bring hikingboots, a light jacket, flashlight, water and amunchie. Call for required signup and anychanges, and leave word how late in theevening I can return your call.

MARCH 10-E6BWEDNESDAY IN MTNS:SANTA ROSA PLATEAULdr: Roger Lundbohm 619-299-0489

[email protected]

Assistant: NeededThis is in Murieta, Riverside County approx70 miles North of San Diego. Take I-15 toKeith Clinton Road exit, turn East. ClintonKeith Road goes South and East, past theSanta Rosa visitor center then becomes TenajaRoad, which will lead to the Hidden ValleyTrailhead (about 3 miles South of I-15 junc-tion). Hike is a 6.4 mile loop from HiddenValley trailhead, to vernal pool, lunch at oldadobe ranch, then return to Hidden Valleytrailhead. Bring water, lunch, and comfort-able hiking shoes or boots. Car pool fromMission Valley leaves at 8 AM, meet at trail-head at 9:30 AM. This is about 1-1/2 hourdrive depending on traffic.

MARCH 17 ELFIN FOREST

MARCH 24DAYHIKE (M6C) THE PARK IN THE DARK:SOUTH FORTUNA LOOPLeader: Diane Purkey: 619-865-8598

Assistant: Aaron SweeneyHere's an energetic evening conditioning hikefor you in Mission Trails Park. FromTierrasanta we'll start out with great views ofthe city lights, then chug along at a moderatepace over the top of South Fortuna Mountain.VERY STEEP! Very rocky and very fun, and

you can learn how night hiking works. Wearhiking boots and bring your flashlight. Call forrequired signup and any changes.

MARCH 27DAYHIKE (H11E) EL CAJON MTNLeader: Starla Rivers: [email protected]

Assistant: Lynn NebusThis heel blistering, calf killing, quad crunchinghike is the best work out within the San Diegometropolitan area. We will do 11 miles roundtrip with a whopping 4000 feet of elevationgain and loss along the way with treacherousfooting due to steep ups and downs overdecomposing granite. Fit, experienced hikersare welcome. Heavy rains cancel.

MARCH 31- M8B WED IN MTNSLAGUNA LAKES LOOPLeader: Dale Laney 619-574-6838

Assistant: Needed:

Hike the loop around Laguna Lakes in lovelyforest not impacted by the fires. Meet at trailhead at 9:00 a.m. The trail head is located 5miles

North of Hwy 8 on Sunrise Hwy (S-1), at milemarker 19.1 Bring: warm clothes, rain gear,Water and lunch. Adventure Pass or GoldenAges pass required for parking. Call leader foradditional information. Rain cancels

APRIL 07DAYHIKE (M6C) COWLES MOUNTAIN 6:30HIKE FROM MESA ROADLeader: Diane Purkey: 619-865-8598

Assistant: Christine DriscollNight hike! No hat, no sunscreen. Learn aboutthe chaparral world by flashlight. Bring hikingboots, a light jacket, flashlight, water and amunchie. Call for required signup and anychanges.

Complete current listings,http://sandiego.sierraclub.org. "Get Outdoors".All participants on Sierra Club outings arerequired to sign a standard liability waiver.Outings are for adults 18+ and no pets.

APRIL 7 STONEWALL PEAK

APRIL 21DH (M4B) COWLES MOUNTAIN 6:30HIKE FROM BARKER WAYLeader: Diane Purkey: 619-865-8598

Assistant: Robert BurroughsAbs? What are abs? Where? Oh, they're hid-den abs. Join us on this fun, fast-pacedeveningconditioning hike up the trail less traveled tothe top of Cowles Mountain. We'll cover verybasic astronomy at the summit, with ourgreat view of the night sky, then loop backdown on the dirt fire road. Bring your flash-light and a light jacket. Call for requiredsignup and any changes.

APRIL 14 M7BWEDNESDAY IN MTNS:VALLEY OF THE MOON*Leader: Carol Murdock 619-749-2467

Assistant: NeededDrive I-8 east to In-Ko-Pah Park exit, turnright and park at the kiosk. A steep hike upthe dirt road gets us to the valley to walkamong wind eroded rocks and view wild-flowers following winter rains. This is a longdrive to the trail head so meet at MissionValley car pool at 7:45 and Los Coches at8AM. Bring wind breaker, water and lunch.

APRIL 25BIKE RIDE (M20A) SAN DIEGOHISTORICAL RIDELeader: Fern Siegel - 619-583-3261

Assistant: Ellen ScottMeet at 9 am in the parking lot immediately

north of the Mission Bay Visitor Center. We'llride thru Old Town on our way to BalboaPark where we will tour the historic MarstonHouse and picnic in the gardens. The ride isopen to all Sierra Club members and theirfriends. A helmet, water, spare tube, pumpand patch kit are required. Bring snacks and$$ for admission ($8/$6 seniors). Rain can-

cels.

MAY 05DAYHIKE (M4B) COWLES MOUNTAIN 6:30HIKE FROM BARKER WAYLeader: Diane Purkey: 619-865-8598

Assistant: Aaron SweeneyAbs? What are abs? Where? Oh, they're hid-den abs. Join us on this fun, fast- pacedevening conditioning hike up the trail lesstraveled to the top of Cowles Mountain. We'llcover very basic astronomy at the summit,with our great view of the night sky, thenloop back down on the dirt fire road. Bring

your flashlight and a light jacket. Call forrequired signup and any changes.

DIFFICULTYE -Easy M -Moderate H -Hard S -Strenuous

V -Very Strenuous

ELEVATION CHANGEA Less than 500 ft.

B 500-1,000 ft. C 1,001-2,000 ft.D 2,001-3,000 ft. E Over 3,000 ft.



March 11 MEETINGMeeting is at the Chapter Office, 8304 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, #101,San Diego, CA 92111.6PM intro class on XC skiing and snowshoeing.7PM trip descriptions, 7:15PM program.

April 8 MEETINGPlanning Meeting and pot luck party.See web page for location.We use an email list for updates and local ski trips:[email protected]

March 5-8

MONTECITO SEQUOIA LODGEAll levels, beginners welcome.See web page for detailed description.

March 31-April 4 (Easter)

MT SHASTA AND MT LASSEN GRAND TOURStrong skiers only. Fly to Sacramento, rental car to mountains. Motel

lodging, 2 days at Mt. Shasta and 2 days at Mt. Lassen. About $350.Coordinator: Patty Dahl [email protected] 619-222-1215.

Memorial Day Weekend, May 29-31CATALINA ISLANDSat morning-Mon eve.

Coordinator: Howard [email protected] or 760-996-5581.Four backpacks from Two Harbors to Little Harbor and Blackjackcampgrounds (tables, fresh water, and showers). Little Harbor is 7miles from Two Harbors, and has a sandy beach. Blackjack is 13miles from Two Harbors and at 1600'. It is near the summit of theisland ridge. Two groups will base camp, and two will spend a nightat each campground. Island shuttle bus available.

Cost $200.00 Deposit is $20

July 4 weekend, July 1-5,

YOSEMITE TO RUSH CREEKThurs eve-Mon. eve.

Coord. Charity Dominic [email protected] 25 mile trips from Tuolumne Meadows, Dana Mdws andRafferty Creek to Rush Creek/Silver Lake. Two shorter base camptrips into Rush Creek. See bus trip web page for details.

Cost $205.00 Deposit $20

Labor Day Weekend, Sept. 2-6,Thurs eve-Mon eve.

We will be applying for permits in theOnion Valley/Kearsarge Pass area March 1st.See web page for updates.

Refund Policy: Note that sickness or injury does not play a partin refunds.

Full Refund:1. We cancel the trip.2. The leader determines you shouldn't

be on the trip.

3. You find your own replacement andthey reimburse you.

Partial Refund:1. We find your replacement and keep

only your deposit.2. We can't replace you, but we get a refund (or are not

charged) by our providers because of your absence.You getback whatever we get back.

No refund:You cancel and we can't replace you.CST 2087766-40. Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State of California.

http://sandiego.sierraclub.org/bus/

http://sandiego.sierraclub.org/ski/

THE EXCELLENT LOCAL SNOW PACK WILL MAKE FOR A LONG SKI SEASON THIS YEAR.



Dubai is really a city state without any

hinterland and it has exhausted its oilresources. The Emir has decided to build

up his city as a destination for very well-

healed shoppers and investors in rapidly

appreciating real estate. He had to have

the highest building in the world, thebiggest flag, the most exclusive and

expensive hotel.The government

controlled com-

pany DubaiWorld took out

a loan of $ 80

billion for con-

struction. For a

while hisscheme worked

beautifully. The

population is

95% expats. The

manual laborerscome from poor

Moslem coun-

tries, live in fair-

ly awful housingand are paid a pittance. The managers

and professionals partly also from

Moslem countries but also from many

Western Countries are well paid. Peopleare quite free to do as they please, alcohol

is readily available. But there were warn-

ing signs all too obvious to the traveler:

The long trek to protect and enhance the

Tijuana Estuary started over 40 years ago.The estuary mirrors the struggles waged

across San Diego County and beyond topreserve fragile lands from development.

The Tijuana Estuary is the last tidal salt

marsh in this region that has not been

impacted by roads and railroads and otherhuman activities. Because of this the

United States Fish and Wildlife Service

acquired the

marsh and setit aside as the

Tijuana Slough

National

Wildlife Refugein 1980. In

1981 the estu-

ary was site

selected as a

NationalEstuarine

Research

Reserve under

the NationalOceanic and

Atmospheric

Administration, (NOAA). In February of

2005 it was designated as a wetland of

international importance under theRamsar Convention.

The estuary is one of the most urban

national reserves in the United States.

As environmentalists we often perceive

the human effect on nature as negative,

but the human touch on nature can also

MONTHLY PROGRAMSMonthly programs are free and open to the public and are held on the third Friday at 7:30pm at the Joyce Beers Center located at 3900 Vermont Stree

San Diego, CA. Across the Street from Trader Joes. Additional parking is available under Trader Joes and Ralphs.

Program Chair: Mannie Kugler - (619) 585-3773

the world's highest building is not evenhalf finished, many of the high-rises are in

various stages of construction, even the

finished ones seemed rarely occupied.Then on November 25, the whole house

of cards came crushing down. Dubai

declared that it cannot make the pay-

ments on its huge debts and the Emir says

that Dubai World is a company separateof the government and is not liable for its

debts.

Abu Dhabi, the other Emirate I visited, is

the largest and wealthiest of the 7 UAEs.Its Emir is a lot more conservative in its

finances. There are also big construction

projects, but not on the same scale as

Dubai's. The Emir built a strikingly beau-tiful huge mosque on the outskirts of

town. The craftsmanship of the workers is

superb. And, best of all, non-Moslems are

allowed in if it is not prayer time.

Both countries - after first destroying

many historic buildings - are now trying

to salvage whatever they can.

April 16th

March 19th

Mike McCoy, DVM

be positive. Its what we do at the Reserve

Seventy five percent of the Tijuana River

Watershed lies in Mexico. Unlike humans,

nature knows no boundaries. The Reserve

Management Authority realizes that deal-ing with the cross border issues requires

working directly with Mexican officials

addressing social, political, economic and

environmental problems on both sides of

the border. The border wall is a tribute tothe politics of fear. Injustice, economic

disparity and the inability to distribute

wealth and opportunity equitably are at

the root of the wall. Successful ecologicalrestoration is dependent upon binational

cooperation.

Dr. McCoy has been in private Veterinary Practice

for 30 years. His work with others to establish the

Tijuana Slough National Wildlife Refuge, the San

Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge, the Tijuana

River National Estuarine Research Reserve, and a

Ramsar designation for the Tijuana Estuary as a

Wetland of International Importance. He has

received two national awards for this work

Christa McReynolds



Reserveyour weekend getaway!

Call Susan Parrish(619) 478-5188

Volunteers - Find YourPlace to Help Protectthe EnvironmentThe San Diego Sierra Club needs your help

protecting our local special places.

Can you volunteer?The Chapter does as much as it does

because many volunteers donate generous

amounts of time to making it all work.

We can always use more hands. Some ofthe ways you can help are listed here. If

you are interested in any of these opportu-

nities or if you dont see your perfect job,

contact Richard Miller at 858-569-6005 or

[email protected].

Staying GreenAre you a member of the Sierra Club

looking for a way to get involved with

protecting that special natural area, plant,

animal, or quality of life? The ChaptersConservation Committee is looking for

motivated people to address these and

other issues in the San Diego and Imperial

Counties area. Answer this call and wewill train you as a Sierra Club conserva-

tion activist. In addition to helping your

favorite cause, youll have access to the

opportunities and resources of the

Chapter, youll learn valuable leadershipskills, and youll get connected with other

environmentalists and groups.

Party Organizers & Fun! RaisersTo accomplish the Chapters goals, we needto bring people together to increase ourfinancial contributions. Like to give par-

ties or organize events large or small -

whale watching, wine tasting, even gala

dinners? Events are scheduled regularly so

come join us.

Marketing and Graphic DesignersThe Chapter has many ways that you can

put your skills in marketing and graphic

design to work for the environment.

Consultants to help committees createinnovative and appealing web pages,

reports, publications, guides and other

materials are just what we need.

Calling all Office AdministratorsWant a way to get out of the house for a

few hours a week, meet new people andput those office and computer skills to

use? We are always in need of volunteers

for general office duties, data entry, and

member services.

Web Techies and DesignersLooking for a way to turn your web

design expertise into a web showcase or

be the master of the web? Help us tobring our website up to date! Looking for

the right techie(s) who can work with vol-

unteers. Check out our website at

www.sandiego.sierraclub.org.

Green Screen

A healthy environment requires goodgovernment. You can get active in the

political process on the Chapters Political

Committee. Committee volunteers are

responsible for interviewing candidatesinterested in the Club's endorsement.

Budding Writers Yearning to be FreeEver have the yearning to be a famous

author or tune up on your writing skills?

The Hi Sierran Committee is always onthe lookout for roving reporters to write

our articles. Commitments as low as two

or three articles a year are welcome.

On the RoadHelp us spread the word by placing copies

of the Hi Sierran in other locations wherethe public can see them and pick them

up. If youre willing to do a little driving

or biking around every two months, then

we want you.

Help Revitalize our Land Use CommitteeLiving in a hotspot of biodiversity that is

also a developers' paradise brings us a

plethora of land use issues to deal with.

We need more volunteers to help deal

with these issues that often affect wild

areas and our communities. Join us at tchapter office on the 4th Wednesday of

every month, at 6:30 pm, and help pre-

serve the special nature of San Diego an

Imperial Counties!



All Activities are held at the Chapter Officeunless otherwise stated:

8304 Clairemont Mesa Blvd.,Suite 101, San Diego, CA 92111.

Our entrance is on the west end of the frontbuilding of Kearny Office Park, just west of I-163 and on the north side of ClairemontMesa Blvd.

Other environmental and activist eventsare posted at www.sdeln.org

1st MONDAY SIERRA SINGLES ORIENTATIONMarch 1st & April 5th, 6:30-7:30 pm

A great way for beginning to make new contactand friends as well as find your niche in theSierra Club. The meeting provides an overviewof events, including discussion of variouspreparations for outings and activities. Noreservations needed. For more info, contact E.L. Lotecka,[email protected],760.533.2725. Mission Valley Branch Library,Seminar Room A, 2123 Fenton Parkway, SanDiego. (Friars Road south on Fenton Parkway,next to IKEA) Newcomers very welcome!

1st FRIDAY Brownbag-it & MOVIE NIGHT6 pm - Brownbag-it and mixer. BYO Brownbag

meals or snacks and beverages (*no officepotlucks for flu season)

6:30 pm Movie - Discussion and action oppor-tunities follow the movies. Movies are avail-able for checkout w/$5 deposit or donation.**Join our movie Activists Listserve for movieand corporate accountability announcements.Location: Chapter Office

Sponsor: International Committee

March 5thNICOTINE BEES (53 minutes) Honeybeepopulations have been slowly declining for

years. But beginning in 2005 bee colonies col-lapsed in dozens of countries simultaneously,

threatening one third of our food supply. Thisfilm examines the scientific data which pointto one underlying explanation for this massivedie-off and suggests how we can help to stop it.

April 2ndFOOD, INC (91 minutes) Our countrys foodsupply is controlled by a handful of corpora-tions that put profit above consumer health,the livelihood of American farmers, workersafety, our environment and the humanetreatment of the animals we eat. Featuringinterviews with Eric Schlosser and MichaelPollan, the film reveals the often shockingtruths about what we eat, how its produced,

who we have become as a nation and wherewe are going from here.Please call Jean Costa for further info and vol-unteer opportunities.

1st SATURDAY FAMILY NATURE ACTIVITYMarch 6th & April 3rd 10:00 am - 11:30 amEasy & educational conservation, ecology, andnature activities. All are welcome, includingpregnant women, people with babies, small,older children, seniors, and those wanting aslow-paced outdoor experience.Locations: Primarily in parks, beaches, andpublic areas.

Sponsor: Family CommitteeContact: Jennifer Douglas Vettel, [email protected] (email preferred); 858-344-5490 cellJoin our San Diego Sierra Club FamilyMeetup site,http://www.meetup.com/SDSierraClubFamily/

3rd FRIDAY MONTHLY CHAPTER PROGRAMMarch 19th , 7:30 pm:US and Mexican Border Problems & Their Effect onthe Tijuana EstuaryApril 16th, 7:30 pm:Into the Lands of the Sheiks, Dubai and Abu DhabiOur outstanding monthly travelogues or

lecture/slide shows and chapter news.See the ad on page 10 for more details.Location: Joyce Beers Center,3900 Vermont St in Hillcrest.Sponsor: San Diego ChapterContact: Mannie Kugler 619-585-3773

INTRODUCTION TO THE SIERRA CLUBMarch 20th & April 24th, 9:30am-10:30amMember Orientation meeting and those inter-ested in learning more about the San DiegoChapter conservation, outings, and Chapteractivities.Location: Chapter Office, 8304 Clairemont

Mesa Blvd., Ste #101, San Diego 92111RSVP: Carolyn Chase [email protected]

For up to date info on our activities listings check our new web activities calendar:http://sandiego.sierraclub.org/Xcalendar.

**Potlucks are Brown Bag-its for the Flu Season:In order to prevent the spread of germs we arechanging our office potlucks to brown bag-its.

Instead of bringing something to share, justbring your own snacks and beverages. You areresponsible for all of your own dishes, utensils,

food, drinks & trash. We have a zero wastepolicy and encourage you to use reusablewares. Remember - Pack it in & pack it out!

Members! Subscribe toour Chapter Listserve and

GET CONNECTED!

The San Diego One Club Forum provides:

- a way for you to obtain more up to dateinfo on chapter issues and activities.

- the opportunity to share local environ-

mental news and chapter activities that

aren't listed in the newsletter.

- a connection to other members through a

discussion venue for what is happening inthe chapter or local issues that are in the

purview of the chapter.

- a way for chapter leaders to remind folks

of upcoming chapter events.

It's easy... just go to

http://lists.sierraclub.orgto subscribe.

At the January meeting, the ChapterExecutive Committee adopted the fol-lowing norms for all Chapter Leaders:

Discussion and Decision-makingAlways DoEngage in open, honest debate

Ask great questionsBalance advocacy with inquiry

Never DoFail to listen to what others say

Engage in personal attacks

Jump to conclusions

Meeting ManagementAlways Do

Start on time; stay on timeBe fully present throughout the meeting

Never DoCome to meetings unprepared

Answer cell phones or do email

AccountabilityAlways DoClarify understanding

Provide follow-up on action itemsOffer support when there is a need

Never DoAssume you have agreement

Assume tasks are getting done

Commit to a task that you know youwon't do



We offer bicycle rides for all levels and distances (beginner to

fast-paced) throughout the year. Weekends at Foster Lodge,

Warner Springs Ranch, Anza Borrego,Agua Caliente and more.

Potluck suppers, annual beach barbeque and our very ownbook club. Our monthly schedule of road rides is posted online

and in our monthly OutSpoken newsletter.

Check us out at: www.sandiego.sierraclub.org/bicycle

For a free sample of our newsletter OutSpoken, phone Tom Yager

(760) 479-0187 or email: [email protected].

Get On Your

Bicycle and Ride!Enjoy the outdoors and make friends too. Explore theback roads of San Diego County and neighboring areas

with the Sierra Club Bicycle Section.

I N YO C O U N T Y , CA

BIG PIN E, DEATH VALLEY, INDEPENDENCE AND LONE PIN E

Farewell from the ChapterCoordinator

Cheryl Reiff

On February 12th, 2010, the position ofChapter Coordinator, which I have filled and

been dedicated to since November 1, 1997, was

terminated.

I have been both honored and thrilled to haveheld this position and to have been associated with so many

dedicated and awesome volunteers and the many interesting and

caring members who support us. Thank you for the work you

do and the support you provide.

But I fear for the fate of the chapter office. I hope that some of

you, as volunteers, will help out in the office to keep us afloat,

and that, as donors, you will help out financially so that this type

of setback never occurs again. If every member gave just anoth-er $5 we would have funding to staff our programs, which

greatly influence development in San Diego and Imperial

Counties. Out of 14,000 members we only receive direct dona-

tions from about 400 of you. That $5 additional directly to the

Chapter would make a big difference!

In spite of the turn of events I feel very blessed to have known

you and to have had this job experience. I have often thought

about my life from a global perspective and am convinced that I

am one of the luckiest people in the world.

Thanks!

Legal Committee FormingAttention Sierra Club Members

If you have always been interested in the relationship betweenthe law and heath of your environment come and join the

rebirth of the Legal Committee. The Legal Committee will

work in conjunction with the Conservation Committee to offer

advice on the Chapters environmental lawsuits and other legal

matters. The Committee is open to all members. You do not

need to be an attorney, just have a sincere commitment to envi-ronmental justice. The committee will tackle issues ranging

from mining to coastal zone management to preservation of

open space against large-scale urban sprawl. We will work withvarious environmental laws including the National

Environmental Policy Act ("NEPA"), the California

Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA"), the Endangered Species

Act ("ESA") amongst a host of others. The approach of the

Committee will be multifaceted focusing on all aspect of thelaw from grassroots advocacy to litigation covering all aspects

in between.

Make sure to mark your calendars for the NEPA/CEQA work-

shop to be held on March 6th location and time are TBA. Theworkshop is for anyone interested in becoming involved in the

legal process of environmental decision-making. The work-

shop will be lead by scientific and legal experts. No experience

is required to participate a general overview will be provided.

If you are interested in becoming involved please contact

Pamela Epstein, Esq., LL.M at

pepstein@sierr aclubsandiego.org or 520-904-1482.



FOSTER LODGE CABIN:Group events at the Sierra Clubs Foster Lodge in the beautiful LagunaMountains. Full kitchen and rustic accommodations for overnight stays.Available for holistic and religious retreats, clubs, family celebrations, wed-dings. Rate of $240 per night (includes the first 20 people). For more informa-tion, call Susan Parrish (619) 478-5188.www.sandiego.sierraclub.org/lodge

KAUAI CONDO RENTAL:HANALEI BAY RESORT amenities include lagoon-shaped pool, hot tub,

tennis courts. Swim, snorkel (5 minute walk to beach), kayak, golf, hike ruggedNa Pali Coast Trail. Newly remodeled 1 BR/ 1 BA. For details, photos, see webad at http://www.vrbo.com/159425. Discounted rates from $89 per night.Non-smokers only. [email protected]

MAGICIAN!For magical entertainment that tickles the funnybone and touches the heart,call magician Michael E. Johnson, 760-747-4627 orwww.MagicianMichael.com.Making memories to last a lifetime.

MAMMOTH CONDOSkiing, biking, fishing, hiking--just getting away for the weekend. 3 BD, 2 BA,full kitchen, fireplace, pool, spa, sauna. $75 summer, $160 winter. CALLBRAD: (619) 804-5616

Classified Ad Rates and Information:

Sierra Club Members (up to 25 words)Private party$10 + $.50 per additional word.Business-$15 + $.50 per additional word.Non-Members (up to 25 words)Private party-$15 + $.50 per additional word.Business-$20 + $.50 per additional word

Payment must be made at time of submission by check to: Sierra Club,8304 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. #101San Diego, CA 92111Attn: HiSierran Treasurer

Send ad to: [email protected]

Classified AdsClassified Ads

Join The Sierra Club Today! Yes, I want to be a member of the Sierra Club

Name__________________________________________________

Address_________________________________________________

City_____________________________State________Zip________

Phone____________________Email__________________________

Yes, I want to give a gift of membership

Name__________________________________________________

Address_________________________________________________

City_____________________________State________Zip________

Phone____________________Email__________________________

Membership Categories:Individual Joint

Introductory $25

Regular $39 $47

Supporting $75 $100

Contributing $150 $175

Life $1,000 $1,250

Senior/Student $24 $32

Limited Income $24 $32

Name on Card

Card Number Expires

Signature

Payment Method

Credit Card MasterCard/V isa Check (payable to Sierra Club)

F R U O F 9 4 Q W 0 5 0 0

Send form and payment to: Sierra Club, P.O. B OX 529 68 Bou lder, CO 80322-2968You can also join online at: www.sandiego.sier raclub.or g and click Join or Gi ve link.Contribution, gifts and dues to the Sierra Club are not tax-deductible; they support our effective,citizen-based advocacy and lobbying efforts. Your dues includes $7.50 for a subscription to SierraMagazine and $1 for the Hi Sierran (chapter newsletter).

Stop Unwanted Catalogs Chris Schmidt

Now there is an easy way to put a stop to unwanted

catalogs in your mailbox. A new service from the Ecology

Center lets you get off mail order retailer mailing lists.

With just a few clicks of your mouse, catalogs stop com-

ing.Catalog Choice (http://www.catalogchoice.org) is a free

service that allows you to decide what gets in your mail-

box.

The mission is to reduce the number of repeat and unso-

licited catalog mailings, and to promote the adoption of

sustainable industry best practices. They aim to accom-

plish this by freely providing the Catalog Choice servicesto both consumers and businesses.

The service is endorsed by the National Wildlife

Federation and the Natural Resources Defense Council,

and funded by the Overbrook Foundation, the Merck

Family Fund, andthe Kendeda Fund.

Sign-up today and reduce the burden on the planet of an esti-mated:

19 billion catalogs mailed to American consumers

170 per household each year

53 million trees cut down

1.2 million homes worth of energy used

5.2 million tons of carbon dioxide emitted, equal to the annualemissions of two million cars


15/16

Bill TaylerSan Diego, ICO Co-Chair

March/April 2010 Hi Sierran San Diego 15

Inner City Outings (ICO) is a Sierra Club

outreach program that provides free

wilderness experiences to urban youth, to

help them realize the wonders of exploring

the outdoors, develop the skills to do it

safely, and nurture a desire to

protect natural spaces.

Please visit our website at

http://sandiego.sierraclub.org/ico/.

New Volunteer Orientations 6:30 to

7:30 PM every 3rd Thursday of themonth, at the San Diego Chapter office:

8304 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., Suite 101.

Anyone interested in ICO is welcome to

attend. Please contact Jim Davis for more

information: email [email protected] or

call

760-739-8407.

Join us on an ICO Trip Want to see us

in action? Join us as a guest on a day trip.

Please check the ICO calendar at

http://sandiego.sierraclub.org/ico/ and

contact the leader listed for

more information.How to Donate We appreciate your

support helping us to provide exciting, safe

adventures free of charge. To receive a tax

credit for your donation, please make your

check payable to "Sierra Club

Foundation/San Diego ICO" and send to:

San Diego ICO

c/o Mike Gilligan, 906 Hayes Ave.,

San Diego, CA 92101.

Contact info for this article:

Bill Tayler, e-mail:

[email protected]

In mid-December, Inner City Outings took agroup of 11 students and two teachers from

Promise Charter School camping in Joshua

Tree National Park. On the first night there,we had just finished cleaning up dinner andwere walking from our camp to a nearby trail

for a night hike when one of the students,David, told me that one thing he really likes

about ICO trips is how everyone workstogether as a team to do things around camp.

He also asked me a lot of question about howto become an ICO leader and said hed like to

lead ICO trips when he is older.

In addition to camping in Joshua Tree, David

has been on several other ICO outings duringthe last few years. I look forward to the time

when David is old enough to become an ICOtrip leader. In the meantime, he

was good enough to write aboutwhat ICO means to him.

ICO From a Students

Perspective

My name is David and Ive expe-rienced the fun of ICO. The

ICO gets kids from the city tosee true nature. On the trips we

go to hikes and overnights. Onthe hikes you are taken to a

place and once there you hikedeserts, mountains and rivers.

In order to have fun you have to work togeth-er, be safe and participate with each other.

The ICO consists of friendship, teamwork,

nature, fun, and being safe.

What I like best is that when you go on a triplike that, everything is really fun and worth

doing. Sometimes if you are lucky a familymember, a favorite teacher or a best friend

goes also. The main thing I have learned onthe trips is taking safe risks, working together

and having fun.

David attends Promise Charter School,located in southeast San Diego. For more

information about Promise Charter School,

please visit the schools web site at

www.promisecharter.org

John Muir and HetchHetchy: Our FoundersBirthday MomentoJohn Muirs founding of the Sierra Club

(1892) was designed to provide access and

appreciation of the great outdoors, espe-

cially the high Sierras. The timing coincid-

ed with diminishing natural resources and

the nations dim arousal of a conservationconscience. It took only two years for the

fledging organization to enter two great

controversies retaining the boundaries of

Yosemite National Park and the lengthy

battle of preserve Hetch Hetchy Valley

from becoming dammed and flooded to

supply power and water for San Francisco.

Sadly, after a fifteen year hard-fought cam-

paign, the latter battle was lost. The rift

between nature lovers and those who

sought commercial advantage at any cost

in John Muirs day foretold of battles

which continues today.

The Hetch Hetchy Valley was nearly as

pristine and beautiful as Yosemite itself.

Even the army engineers who surveyed the

river and valley advised that other sources

for these utrilities were available else-

where, estimating that the needs of the

Bay area could be met through alternative

sources for the next fifty years. Muir wrote

that the proposal violates the purpose ofour national parks. He expressed his

thoughts poetically after the Wilson

administration allowed the dam to flood

the valley ""Dam Hetch Hetchy..for

no holier temple has ever been consecrat-

ed by the heart of man." The two major

factors (among the many) which played a

prominent role in the loss of the Hetch

Hetchy Valley to utilitarian causes were

due to a little known legislation which

passed quietly outside the prevue of the

Sierra Club leaders, known as the Right

Way Act (1901) which allowed water con

duits through national lands for the pub

lic welfare, and the San Francisco earth-

quake and fire (1906), which polarized

political interest in expanding the avail-

able water resources of the city. The pro

ect was authorized in 1913 by President

Wilson and completed in 1923.

Today there is an interest in restoring th

Valley to its pre-dammed condition. Onof our recent Sierra Club Presidents,

Larry Fahn, wrote in 2004, " A fitting tr

ute to John Muir would be for us to find

the wisdom and the will to restore the

grandeur of Hetch Hetchy Valley for all

future generations." The Sierra Club has

Restore Hetch Hetchy Task Force with a

site at www.hetchhetchy.org.

Muir's birthday is April 21, 1838

Compiled from Holway Jones, John Muir and the

Sierra Club, 1965.

David and his cousin Ana in the Santa Margarita River in Fallbrook.


16/16

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEEThe Executive Committee meets the 3rd Wednesdayof every month at 6:30 pmChair Carolyn Chase (2011)(858) 272-2930 [email protected] Chair Joe Zechman (2010)(619) 709-6268 [email protected] Chrissy Magee (2010)(858) 635-8908 [email protected] Grubb (2010)(760) 753-0273 [email protected] Klaasen (2010)(619) 582-7407 [email protected] Owens (2011)619-447-4979 [email protected] Schmidt (2011)(858) 794-8919 [email protected] Stevens (2010)(858) 673-0891 [email protected] Stump (2011)

[email protected] 619-281-7394

TREASURERLarry Klaasen(619) 582-7407 [email protected]

NORTH COUNTY GROUP (NCG) (INLAND)The NCG Executive Committee meets the 2nd Tuesday ofthe month. Contact Chair for time and location.Chair Pattie Warnick(760) 788-2106 [email protected] George Greer(858) 231-5455 [email protected] Cheryl Knapp(760) 745-8819 [email protected] Ken Quigley760-723-4425 [email protected] (Wilderness Basics Course) Jeff Marchand(760) 728-8220 [email protected]

NORTH COUNTY COASTAL GROUPThe "Coasters" meet the 3rd Tuesday of the month at 7 pmEncinitas Community Center.Chair Dave Grubb(760) 753-0273 [email protected]

INNER CITY OUTINGS

Call or check website for meeting information.http://sandiego.sierraclub.org/ICOCo-Chair Bill Tayler, 858-272-8574,[email protected]

Co-Chair Ed Barber, [email protected]

SECTIONS

BicycleCall for meeting information. Tom Yager(760) 479-0187 [email protected]/bicycle

FamilyJennifer Douglas(858) 344-5490 [email protected]

PhotographyJonathan Fennell [email protected]/photoclub

SinglesMeet 2nd Monday of month at 6:30 pm Conf. Room #105.

E.L. Lotecka (760) 533-2725www.sandiego.sierraclub.org/singles

CONSERVATION COMMITTEEMeets the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 6:30 pm.

Chair Rene Owens [email protected] & WildernessMeets the 1st Wednesday of the month at 6:30 pm.Call for location. Co-Chair NeededJack Paxton(760) 744-3282 [email protected]

Global WarmingMeets the 1st Monday of the month at 6:30 pm.Donald Lee (858) 643-0024Jean Costa (619) 463-0721

InternationalMeets the 4th Monday of the month at 6:30 pm.Call for location.Jean Costa (619) 463-0721

Land UseMeets the 4th Wednesday of the month at 6:30 pm.Call Sierra Club Office for information.(858) 569-6005

Smart Energy Solutions Task ForceCall for meeting information.

Joe Zechman(619) 709-6268 [email protected]

TransportationMeets the 4th Thursday in Old TownCall for details.Mike Bullock (760) 754-8025

WaterCall for meeting information. Ed Kimura(858) 569-2025 [email protected]

Webmaster (ConsCom)Dave [email protected]

WildlifeCall for meeting information.Rene Owens [email protected]

OUTINGS COMMITTEEMeets quarterly, call for information.Chair Jim Matlock (858) 748-4634

Bus TripsMike Fry (858) 748-5166

Chapter Outings Leadership Training (COL)Skip Forsht(858) 272-4495 [email protected]

Leadership Review & Safety CommitteeMarty Stevens

MountaineeringByron Cook(619) 888-2831 [email protected]

Pacific Crest TrailOccasional work parties.Rob Langsdorf(858) [email protected]

SkiMeets the 2nd Thursday of month 6 pm (November- MarchMike Fry (858) 748-5166

Wednesday in the Mountains

Call for information. Dale Laney (619) [email protected]

Wilderness Basics Course (WBC)WBC Information [email protected] Marchand (WBC N. County)(760) 728-8220 [email protected]

STANDING & SPECIAL COMMITTEES

Foster LodgeMeets 3rd Tuesday of each month at 5:30 pm atChapter Office (No meeting in December)RSVP for pre-meeting dinner toMary Eggen (858) 453-1615Call for lodge Information.Susan Parrish (619) 478-5188

FundraisingMeets 4th Thursday of each month at 6:00 pm.Richard Miller (858) [email protected]

Hi Sierran NewsletterMeets the 1st Thursday of each month at 6:00 pm.Committee Chair Ellen [email protected]

Managing Editor Judy [email protected]

LibrarySabrina Nespeca, Rosa Longacre

[email protected] call chapter office

Membership

Richard Miller (858) [email protected]

Monthly Program3rd Friday 7:30 pm, See Page 10 for information.

Mannie Kugler (619) 585-3773

Nature Knowledge Workshop (NKW)Annual June Weekends, call for information.Barry Hite (619) [email protected]

PoliticalMeets first Tuesdays.Call for location.Carolyn Chase (858) [email protected]

Committee & Contact Information

San Diego Chapter8304 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. #101, San Diego, CA 92111On the north side & just west of the 163.

Office Hours: Monday-Friday 12:00pm 5:00pmPhone: 858-569-6005email: [email protected] Coordinator: Richard Miller email: [email protected]

Meetings are held at the Sierra Club office or conference room unless otherwise indicated.

mar 2010 san diego sierra

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