nov 2008 san diego sierra

November/December 2008 Hi Sierran San Diego 1

Vol 67 No. 7 On the web at: sandiego.sierraclub.org December/November 2008

EXPLORE, ENJOY AND PROTECT THE PLANET

In this issue: Activities ..................... 6Chapter Wishlist .........14Classieds ..................14ICO .............................10Letter from the Editor .. 2Monthly Programs ... 89No. Cty Inland Ballot ... 3Outings-at-a-Glance ...... 4Sipping Sierrans ........ 12Ski Section .................11

Tense budget negotiations and friction in the Capitol made 2008 a tough year for environmental solu-tions.

Sierra Club California success-fully worked with both the Leg-islature and the Schwarzenegger administration to deliver bi-parti-san measures that will protect our families from harmful chemicals in consumer products and put a much improved high-speed rail bond on the November ballot.

But a whole host of other wor-thy measures on renewable energy, outdoor education, fire prevention, clean air, water conservation, and environmental enforcement were stopped short of enactment. Some died during the legislative session due to industry opposition or the pressure of the fiscal crisis; oth-ers emerged from the Legislature only to fall prey to the veto pen of a governor who was distinctly un-happy with lawmakers.

California Poised to Make History on Toxic Products and High-Speed Rail

In a clear victory for Califor-nia families, legislators granted the Department of Toxic Substances Control sweeping new author-ity to keep hazardous chemicals out of toys, packaging, furniture and other consumer products. As-

semblymember Mike Feuer (D-Los Angeles) and DTSC Director Mau-reen Gorsen worked tirelessly with Sierra Club California and our al-lies in health and environmental protection to craft AB 1879, which one national expert called the toughest, most comprehensive law in the country. Sierra Club Califor-nia Director Bill Magavern joined Schwarzenegger, Gorsen and Feuer for the signing ceremony in Sep-tember.

Sierra Club California also sponsored AB 2347, authored by Assemblymember Ira Ruskin (D-Redwood City), which requires manufacturers to establish and fund a program to recycle thermo-stats containing mercury, a potent neurotoxin. As signed by the Gov-ernor, AB 2347 creates a potent model for free and convenient col-lection of household hazardous wastes.

Making a wise exception to his no-signings-before-a-budget pledge, Schwarzenegger also strengthened the highspeed rail iniative, signing legislation that made Proposition 1A a better measure for both tax-payers and the environment.

Responding to the disastrous Cosco Busan oil spill, lawmakers passed several bills, highlighted by AB 2911, by Assemblymember Lois Wolk (D-Davis). The successful

measure promises to shore up the states prevention, response and mitigation of future spills and im-prove the number and training of volunteers used in rescuing oiled wildlife.

Key Bills VetoedAs wildfires tragically raged

throughout California, we worked to stop developers from building new housing developments that lack sufficient fire protection... AB 2447, authored by Assem-blymember Dave Jones (D-Sac-ramento), would have required a city or county to make a finding

By Bill MagavernDirector, Sierra Club California

Green Measures Caught in Capitol CrossfireA year of triumph over toxics, but gridlock on other issues

Continued on page 15

2 November/December 2008 Hi Sierran San Diego

Sierra Club San Diego Chapter8304 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard #101San Diego, CA 92111http://sandiego.sierraclub.org

EDITORJustin Lewis (619)[email protected]

ART DIRECTOR

Michael Coffey (619)[email protected]

ADVERTISING

[email protected]

COMMITTEE CHAIR

Pauline Jimenez (619)[email protected]

CONSERVATION

[email protected]

MEETINGS Cheryl Reiff (858)[email protected]

[email protected]

One Club ListservTo subscribe go to

WWW.SIERRACLUB.ORG/MEMBERLISTS?LISTNAME=SANDIEGO-ONECLUB-FORUM

Nov/Dec 2008USPS896140The Hi Sierran (USPS 896140) 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. One dollar of the an-nual membership fee is for a subscription to the Hi Sierran. Periodicals Postage Paid at San Diego, CA. Postmaster: Send address changes to Hi Sierran, Sierra Club Members Services, PO Box 52968, Boulder CO 80322-2968.

Address Correction?Send your current mailing labeland your correct address to:Sierra ClubPO Box 52968Boulder, Colorado 80322-2968 Or e-mail membership number and your correct address to:[email protected] allow 4 - 6 weeks for processing.

One might search high and low for an answerpouring through the clubs history and memoriz-ing lofty mission statementsits actually pretty simple. The answer can be found in the pages of each issue of The Hi Sierran: Were here to explore, enjoy and protect the planet. The Clubs basic moniker is the core of what the Sierra Club is about, and all of its various activi-ties flow from these three main te-nets. How we express these tenets, however, can be as diverse as each and every one of us.

Explore. The dictionary tells us that to explore means to travel in or through an unfamiliar country or area in order to learn or familiarize oneself with it. Although many of our members have traveled the world, hiking, skiing, kayaking, and otherwise trekking through all sorts of wild places, there is a lot of exploring that can be done right here in San Diego! Were fortunate to have a diverse ecosystem at our doorsteps that is populated by an equally diverse population (of crea-tures and people). Exploring the fa-miliar often allows us to see it in a new light.

Enjoy. This should be an easy one, right? Unfortunately, our busy lives, hectic schedules and multiple responsibilities often get in the way of simple enjoyment. Take the long way home, walk your dog for an extra ten minutes, plant a tree (or even some flowers), or just encour-age someone else to do something outsidethats all it takes.

Protect. This part of the moni-ker also means something different to everyonebut thats the beauty

Letter from the EditorWhy on earth are we members of this club?!By Justin Lewis

of it. Theres not just one way to protect the environment! Whether you choose to make signs in your garage and join a picket line, volun-teer to clean up your neighborhood canyon, unplug an appliance when its not in use, or recycle cans, it all counts. And it all makes a differ-ence.

Although our chapter has grown since its inception, the real challenge we face is that the attacks on our environment and great open spaces have grown as well. As youll see in this issue, however, its not im-possible to effect changewhether youre a member of a statewide lob-bying machine with the weight of a national organization behind you or two school-age sisters trying to im-prove a local park. All we have to remember is to explore, enjoy and protect!


Legendary Experiences. Larger than Life.

Endless Backcountry FishingBackpackingCampingBiking Mountaineering Historic Sites Museums Events Timeless Towns

www.TheOtherSideofCalifornia.comB P, B, D V, I L P.

Legendary Experiences. Larger than Life.Inyo County, CA

Motor-touring and camping in Death Valley.

INYO_scsd_SeptOct_ad.indd 1 8/1/08 9:59:03 AM

North County Group InlandExecutive Committee BallotBelow is the official ballot for the North County Group Inland Executive Committee 2009-2010. North County Group Inland members can vote by mail (using the ballot below) or by email. In both cases, please vote for no more than four individuals.

Place check after name or submit no more than four (4) names via e-mail, including any write-in.

George Greer (incumbent) _____ Bonnie Prescott__________John Tomlinson (incumbent) _____ Write-In:________________Rich Willis (incumbent) _____ Write-In:________________

Membership number: ____________________________

Mail completed ballots to: North County Group Sierra ClubSan Diego Chapter PO BOX 2481 Escondido, CA 92033 Or email nominee choices to [email protected]. All ballots must be received by December 6th, 2008.


Saturday, November 1, 2008DAYHIKE (H9C) ANZA-BORREGO DESERT MAIDENHAIR FALLS & HELLHOLE CANYONLeader: Bill SwartzAssistant: Needed

Sunday, November 2, 2008DAYHIKE (S14E) BALDY VILLAGE TO BALDYLeader: Mark BrownAssistant: Byron Cook

Wednesday, November 5, 2008DAYHIKE (M4B) COWLES MOUNTAIN 6:30 HIKE FROM BARKER WAYLeader: Diane PurkeyAssistant: Robert Burroughs

Wednesday, November 5, 2008DAYHIKE (M8B) WED IN THE MTNS: SOUTH LAGUNASLeader: Mac Downing

Assistant: Needed

Saturday, November 8, 2008DAYHIKE (E4A) COASTERS SATURDAY ENCINITAS SOUTH BEACHLeader: Mac DowningAssistant: Needed

Chapter Outings-at-a-GlanceThis partial listing is current as of November 1, 2008. Chapter outings listings, bus trip information, and Califor-nia/Nevada Regional Conservation Committee outings are typically updated on a monthly basis on the Chapter website. To obtain the complete outing write-up or to sign up for a specific outing, please contact the leader and/or visit our Chapter website at: http://sandiego.sierraclub.org/outings/index.asp?content=calendar. A monthly list of outings is available via e-mail subscription at this link: http://sierrasd.org/outings/index.htm.

Sunday, November 9, 2008DAYHIKE (S16E) SAN GORGONIO VIA VIVIAN CREEKLeader: Mark BrownAssistant: Byron Cook

Wednesday, November 19, 2008DAYHIKE (M8B) CORTE MADERA MTNLeader: Dale LaneyAssistant: TBD

Wednesday, November 19, 2008DAYHIKE (M5C) COWLES MOUNTAIN 6:30 HIKE FROM MESA ROADLeader: Diane PurkeyAssistant: Robert Burroughs

Sunday, November 23, 2008DAYHIKE (V25E) SAN GORGONIO VIA SOUTH FORKLeader: Mark BrownAssistant: Byron Cook Thursday, November 27, 2008 to Sunday, November 30, 2008BACKPACK (H25A) GRAND CANYON FOR THANKSGIVINGLeader: Mark BrownAssistant: Byron Cook

Wednesday, December 3, 2008DAYHIKE (M7C) COWLES MOUNTAIN 6:30 EVENING HIKE

Leader: Diane PurkeyAssistant: Christine Driscoll

Saturday, December 6, 2008DAYHIKE (H8C) BOW WILLOW/ROCKHOUSE CANYON LOOPLeader: Diane PurkeyAssistant: Christine Driscoll

Wednesday, December 17, 2008DAYHIKE (M6C) THE PARK IN THE DARK: NORTH FORTUNA LOOPLeader: Diane PurkeyAssistant: Christine Driscoll

Wednesday, December 31, 2008DAYHIKE (M4B) COWLES MOUNTAIN 6:30 HIKE FROM BARKER WAYLeader: Diane PurkeyAssistant: Robert Burroughs

Wednesday, December 31, 2008 to Sunday, January 4, 2009BUS TRIP NEW YEARS BEAR VALLEY SKI BUS TRIPCoordinator: Alice FichandlerAssistant: Needed

Sunday, January 11, 2009DAYHIKE (V18E) RABBIT PEAK FROM THE NORTHLeader: Mark BrownAssistant: Byron Cook

To find out more about these exciting Outings online, go to: http://sandiego.sierraclub.org/outings


University City (UC) residents now have the op-portunity to re-cycle on the go wh i l e v i s i t i ng Standley Park and the surrounding baseball and soft-ball fields. The four new recycling receptacles were purchased with a grant sponsored through Supervi-sor Ron Roberts office

Last summer, UC resident,

You Can Make it Happen!Tama Becker-Varano, submitted a

recycling proposal to Mr. Roberts and immediately received his sup-port. With ap-proval from the Standley Recre-ation Council and maintenance sup-port from Sarah Anderson and the Standley Recre-ation Department s taf f , the bins offer UC park-

goers the convenience of properly

disposing of their recyclable items. The receptacles will be emptied weekly into the larger recycling dumpsters located in the Swanson Pool parking lot, the earnings of which will be invested back into continued recycling efforts at the park.

All park patrons are encour-aged to take advantage of the recy-cling bins. Please assist park staff by avoiding cross contamination of non-recyclable items (trash) in the recycling bins.

Go Green in UC!


November:

1ST FRIDAY POTLUCK & MOVIE NIGHTWhen: November 7th, Potluck 6pm & Movie 630pm What: Movie U R Pre-Approved An entertaining and hard-hitting documentary jour-ney into the tantalizing world of your Credit Cards and the shadowy forces controlling them. Whos be-hind the threatening deception? Why are so few pay-ing attention? How could this happenin America??Where: Chapter HQ 8304 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. #101 (We have a zero waste policy so please bring your own non-disposable plate, cup, napkin, and utensils; pack it in & pack it out)Sponsor: International CommitteeContact: Jean Costa 619-463-0721

1ST SATURDAY FAMILY NATURE ACTIVITYWhen: November 1st, 10-11:30am What: Easy & educational conservation, ecology, and nature activities. All are welcome, including pregnant women, people with babies, small, older children, seniors, and those wanting a slow-paced outdoor experience. Locations: Primarily in parks, beaches, and public areas. Sponsor: Family Committee (COLs and assistant lead-ers needed) Contact: Jennifer Douglas Vettel, jennifercdouglas at yahoo.com (email preferred); 858-344-5490 cell

2ND FRIDAY (DATE CHANGED FOR THE HOLIDAYS) POTLUCK MIXER When: November 14th, 6-8 pm What: A Friday evening of fun, good conversation and an interesting speaker. Please bring a healthy finger snack or beverage to share. Where: Chapter HQ 8304 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. #101 (We have a zero waste policy so please bring your own non-disposable plate, cup, napkin, and utensils; pack it in & pack it out)Sponsor: Membership Committee C o n t a c t : J a n S c h a l k w i j k 619 -2 6 9 - 0 329 [email protected]

3RD FRIDAY MONTHLY CHAPTER PROGRAMWhen: November 21st, 7:30 pm What: Our outstanding monthly travelogues or lec-

Chapter Activities

ture/slide shows and chapter news. See page 8 for more details. Where: Joyce Beers Center, 3900 Vermont St in Hill-crest. Sponsor: San Diego Chapter Contact: Mannie Kugler 619-585-3773

December:

1ST FRIDAY POTLUCK & MOVIE NIGHTWhen: December 5th, Potluck 6pm & Movie 630pm What: Movie Silent Forest. Fish Hook the seal tours Californias kelp forests from holdfast to canopy, introducing its inhabitants and predators.Where: Chapter HQ 8304 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. #101 (We have a zero waste policy so please bring your own non-disposable plate, cup, napkin, and utensils; pack it in & pack it out)Sponsor: International CommitteeContact: Jean Costa 619-463-0721

1ST SATURDAY FAMILY NATURE ACTIVITYWhen: December 6th, 10-11:30am What: Regularly Occurring Event See September write-up.

HOST TRAINING AT FOSTER LODGEWhen: December 6th, 11:30am-4pm What: If youever wanted to be a Host at Foster Lodge, this is your chance! Bring your calendar, a sack lunch, bottled water and a friend! Join us for Happy Hour af-terwards! RSVP to Susan Parrish at 619-478-5188.

3RD FRIDAY MONTHLY CHAPTER PROGRAMWhen: December 19th, 7:30 pm What: Regularly Occurring Event - see page 9 for more details.

2ND FRIDAY (DATE CHANGED FOR THE HOLIDAYS) POTLUCK MIXER When: December 12th, 6pm What: Regularly Occurring Event - see November write-up Where: Chapter HQ 8304 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. #101 (We have a zero waste policy so please bring your own non-disposable plate, cup, napkin, and utensils; pack it in & pack it out)

Compiled by Cheryl ReiffChapter Coordinator


Did you know?

Every Saturday in January and Feb-ruary the Wildlife Research Institute (WRI) welcomes visitors to the Ramona grasslands to enjoy the wide open space and view the wildlife. Nineteen different species of wintering and resi-dent hawks have been identified in years past. The stars of the show are the Ferruginous Hawks, which migrate from the northern United States and Canada. The Ferrugi-nous Hawk is the largest hawk in North America. Spectators will also view Red-tailed Hawks, Prairie Falcons, Burrowing Owls and Golden Eagles, to name a few.

If you arrive early, the WRI even offers coffee and donuts! Bring binoculars and wear warm clothing.

The program starts promptly at 9:00am. The program consists of a brief overview of the Wildlife Research Institute, the life and history of hawks and their habi-tat and the North American bird banding program. Visitors will see captured hawks banded and released. The Burrowing Owl, identified as a species of special

concern, has been reintroduced to the grass-lands and will be viewed by all.

Hawk Watch is free and located at 1830 Highland Val-ley Road, just 2.5 miles north of Highway 67.

Did you know?

Every Saturday in January and Feb-ruary the Wildlife Research Institute (WRI) welcomes visitors to the Ramona grasslands to enjoy the wide open space and view the wildlife. Nineteen different species of wintering and resi-dent hawks have been identified in years past. The stars of the show are the Ferruginous Hawks, which migrate from the northern United States and Canada. The Ferrugi-nous Hawk is the largest hawk in North America. Spectators will also view Red-tailed Hawks, Prairie Falcons, Burrowing Owls and

The program starts promptly at 9:00am. The program consists of a brief overview of the Wildlife Research Institute, the life and history of hawks and their habi-tat and the North American bird banding program. Visitors will see captured hawks banded and released. The Burrowing Owl, identified as a species of special

concern, has been reintroduced to the grass-lands and will be viewed by all.

Hawk Watch is free and located at 1830 Highland Val-ley Road, just 2.5 miles north of Highway 67.


Monthly programs meet at the Joyce Beers Center at 3900 Vermont Street. Additional parking isavailable under Trader Joes and Ralphs. Free and open to the public. Program Chair Mannie Kugler.

osterLodgeF The Sierra Club Foster Lodge is in the Laguna Mountains 12 mi. north of I8 on Sunrise Highway, across from Mt. Laguna/El Prado campground.

The small cabin is open from 10 a.m. Sat. to 2 p.m. Sun. for Sierra Club members and their guests. The large cabin is for use by Sierra Club groups as well as guest groups with a club sponsor. Call Susan Parrish for reservations and prices for the large cabin.

Lodge Committee Chair: Randy Parrish (619) 478-5188Large/Small Cabin Rentals/Res: Susan Parrish (619) 478-5188

SMALL CABIN FEES (WITH MEMBERSHIP CARD) MEMBERS GUESTS ADULTS (612) ADULTS (612) (65+)DAY USE: $5 $4 $8 $6 $5FAMILY: $15 INCLUDED $25 INCLUDED OVERNIGHT: $7 $5 $12 $8 $5FAMILY: $22 INCLUDED $38 INCLUDED

Formoreinformationgoto:www.sandiego.sierraclub.org/lodge/

Due to special reserved events, the Foster Lodge will be closedNovember 12, December 67.

Friday, November 21st program, 7:30 p.m.The Anza-Borrego Story: Celebrating the First 75 Years

Before the creation of the Cali-fornia State Park system, leaders of the San Diego Natural History Museum and the San Diego Cham-ber of Commerce e n v i s i o n e d a great desert park that would be-come Anza-Bor-rego Desert State Park. The story of Anza-Borrego is a story of vision-aries in the midst of challenges, of conservationists prevailing in the face of develop-ment, and of the ongo ing v i g i -lance needed to protect one of the nations finest and largest desert parks. The challenges continue to this day with conservationists ever ready to defend this park.

The Anza-Borrego Desert area was included in the original Cali-fornia State Park Survey of 1928 recommending areas to be incorpo-rated in a newly created California State Park system. Original surveys of the area also recommended na-tional park status, but the timing was not right with the beginning of the Great Depression. Today, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is half of the states park system in acreage and the largest state park in the nation outside of Alaska. It has resources that surpass many na-tional parks and is one of the great

desert parks of the world. Almost 90 per cent of the California State

Wi lderness S y s t e m i s found within the borders of this park which strad-d l e s t h re e counties.

Celebrate t h e Pa rk s first 75 years by rel iv ing the past as historian and g u i d e b o o k author Diana Lindsay re-counts the critical events

that created this world-class park in a one-hour PowerPoint presen-tation at the Joyce Beers Commu-nity Center (3900 Vermont Street in Hillcrest) on Friday, November 21, 2008, at 7:30 p.m.

Diana Lindsays Masters the-sis from SDSU on the history of the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park was published as Our Historic Desert in 1973. Since that time she has authored Anza-Borrego A to Z: People, Places and Things, co-au-thored the guidebook to the park, The Anza-Borrego Desert Region, and has contributed to other books relating to the park. She currently serves as the Vice-President of En-vironmental Affairs for the Anza-Borrego Foundation and Institute.


Monthly programs meet at the Joyce Beers Center at 3900 Vermont Street. Additional parking isavailable under Trader Joes and Ralphs. Free and open to the public. Program Chair Mannie Kugler.

Yes! I do care about this impor tant work! Please contact the chapter office to learn about volunteer opportunities or to make a donation. 8304 Clairemont

Mesa Blvd. #101, San Diego, CA 92111 619-299-1741.

Friday, December 19th program, 7:30 p.m.Sustainable cities in the desert: The case of San Diego

The grow-ing awareness o f very ser i -ous problems with global and local ecosystem s tab i l i ty and resource avail-abi l i ty is en-couraging new consideration of the sustainabil-ity of our cur-rent communi-ties. The World Commission on E n v i ro n m e n t and Develop-ment, chaired by Norwegian Gro Harlem Brundt-land, highlighted this in Our Com-mon Future prepared in 1987. This ground-breaking book defined sus-tainability as, development that meets the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Although all of us depend on natural sys-tems for the air we breathe, the food we eat, the water we drink and the materials we use to build our homes, we have lost touch with this connection. Water now comes from the faucet or in a bottle; food comes packaged, pre-pared and free of dirt; energy flows from the wall socket from distant power plants; and wastes are sim-ply flushed away. But natural and managed ecosystems still provide us with the requirements for life and every one of us has an impact

on our planet.This presen-

tation will ex-plore how this is particularly im-portant for cit-ies. San Diego, as a desert city (less rain than Tucson), faces particularly dif-ficult challenges to become more sustainable.

D a v i d A . Bainbridge was e d u c a t e d a t the University of California,

San Diego in Earth Sciences, and U.C. Davis in Ecology and Envi-ronmental Planning. He has pub-lished seven books, numerous book chapters in restoration, re-source management, and develop-ment, and more than 300 articles and reports, for audiences ranging from Tree Planters Notes to the Wall Street Journal. He has been

involved in research and consult-ing in sustainable management for the last 30 years; and now coordi-nates the new MBA concentration in sustainable management at the Marshall Goldsmith School of Management at Alliant Interna-tional University, Scripps Ranch.

Awards:Excellence in Teaching. National Society of Leadership and Success 2007.Passive Solar Pioneer. American Solar Energy Association. 2004.Worlds Top 40 Socially Conscious De-signers. International Design Magazine 2001.U.S.I.U. Presidents Award for Excel-lence in Service AY-2000-2001.Special commendation from the Califor-nia Energy Commission for work on the State Passive Solar Tax Credit Regula-tions.Northern California Section, American Planning Association: Meritorious Pro-gram Award for Land Use Capability Manual.American Institute of Planners award for Energy Conservation in Davis, Living Systems.


Inner City Outings (ICO) is a Sierra Club out-reach program that provides free wilderness experi-ences to urban youth, to help them realize the won-ders 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 the month, at the San Diego Chapter office: 8304 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., Suite

101. Anyone interested in ICO is welcome to at-tend. Please contact Jim Davis for more infor-mation: 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.si-erraclub.org/ico/ and contact the leader listed for more information.

How to Donate We appreciate your sup-port helping us to provide exciting, safe adven-tures 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 Julie Bykowski, 1919 Azure Way, Encinitas, CA 92024.

Inner City OutingsBy Andreas Marek, San Diego ICO Chair

The holidays are coming and with them the end of a successful and fun year for ICO. In the last 12 months, we led 23 outings with an average of 10 kids per outing, volunteered over 1,700 hours, and hiked over 830 miles together. We created an opportunity for more than 200 kids to experience the outdoors, tak-ing them hiking, camping, kayaking, and snorkeling. For over 75 kids, it was their first trip with ICO. For many of the youth we serve, ICO is their first or only means of seeing the world outside of their own neigh-borhood.

W i t h happy faces, c u r i o s i t y about nature, a n d q u e s -tions about when is the n ex t t r i p f r o m k i d s we serve, we know t ha t we make a difference in their l ives. S h o w i n g how to throw a Frisbee, talking about the stars in the night sky, hiking to fun places with rocks or trees to climb, or organizing treasure hunts, are just a few of the fun adventures we have with the kids.

I would like to thank the ICO leaders and volunteers, and the staff of our partner youth programs. Your dedication allowed us to cre-ate memorable outdoor adventures for kids who otherwise may not have the opportunity to make a connection with nature. My heart-felt thanks are also extended to our generous donors and everybody who worked behind the scenes. Our success would not have been pos-sible without your contribution to our mission.

Happy Holidays and Best Wishes for the New Year!

Photo by Andreas Marek

Photo by Kathleen Roth

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2009 S

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E 2008-2009 SKI AND SNOWSHOE SECTION SCHEDULEMore info on our webpage http://sandiego.sierraclub.org/ski/ For updates and local trips, send email to [email protected]

Nov 13, Dec 11, Jan 8, Feb 12, Mar 12, April 9. Snow section meeting, Clairemont Community Room. Clairemont Town Square Shopping Center, 4731Clairemont Dr, Thomas Brothers 1248E1. Look for the City of San Diego Community Office on the south side of the driveway (Lakehurst Ave) between Vons and Big Lots.

Nov. 8-9, KELSO DUNES sand skiing and car camp. free, Old skis, boots and poles are provided. Mike Fry, [email protected] 858-748-5166.

Nov. 26-30, THANKSGIVING AT MAMMOTH, about $250, Rhea Leptich , 858-277-8123. 4 nights in condos. Thanksgiving dinner and all the trimmings included. Snow likely. Transportation not included, car pools encouraged. Trip limited to 16.

Dec. 31, 2008 - Jan 4, 2009 NEW YEARS BEAR VALLEY BUS TRIP WED-SUNAll levels, 3 full days of cross country skiing, downhill skiing, and snowshoeing. Bear Valley is located in the Sierras between Yosemite and Tahoe in Alpine County. Cost for the trip is $385 which includes transportation and condo lodging at the ski area. Send a $35 deposit(payable to Sierra Club) and 3 SASEs or your e-mail address to Alice Fichandler, 4520 Greene St., San Diego, CA 92107, 619-226-6083, [email protected]

FEB 5-9, 25th ANNUAL YOSEMITE WINTER BUS TRIP. The trip cost includes bus transportation, first night stay in Oakhurst, and three nights at Yosemite Lodge. Per person cost is $477 (two per room), $404 (3 per room), or $367 (4 per room) with two beds per room. Send a $50 deposit (payable to Sierra Club) and your address, phone number, and email address (or 3 SASE) to Monique Alkemade, 11309 Carmel Creek Road, San Diego, CA, 92130. 858-509-9203 [email protected] We need your deposit by Dec. 15 in order to reserve your room.

Feb 28-Mar 5, GLACIER NATIONAL PARK, ISAAK WALTON INN. $464 for 3 nights at Isaak Walton Inn. Airfare, trainfare and meals not included. Send your $40 de-posit (payable to Sierra Club), along with your name, address, phone and e-mail info (or 3 SASEs) to Jackie Gray, 4259 Feather Ave, San Diego, CA, 92117. [email protected]

Mar 26-30, CLAIR TAPPAAN LODGE. Historic Sierra Club lodge at Donner Pass. All levels welcome. Lessons and rentals extra. Easy touring, 3 downhill resorts, major track skiing, and backcountry huts. Lodging, and meals at CTL about $200, you buy your own airline ticket to Reno. Rental cars shared. Coordinator: Patty Dahl [email protected] 619-222-1215. Trip limited to 12.

Refund Policy: Note that sickness or injury does not play a part in refunds. You may purchase travel insurance from any travel agent. Travel insurance usually covers sick-ness, injury, family emergencies, lost luggage etc. Full Refund: 1. We cancel the trip or 2. The leader determines you shouldnt be on the trip or 3. You find your own replace-ment and they reimburse you. Partial Refund: 1. We find your replacement and keep only your deposit or 2. We cant replace you, but we get a refund (or are not charged) by our providers because of your absence. You get back whatever we get back.CST 2087766-40. Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State of California.


Join fellow Sierrans and friends in a tasting of locally produced wines from Hacienda de las Rosas on Sunday, November 9 at 3:00 pm at Hacienda de las Rosas Wine Tasting Room, located in historic Old Town, San Diego in the Plaza del Pasado.

Hacienda de las Rosas Winery will present an afternoon of De-lightDesserts and Wine Pairings! Participants will enjoy a Four Aces Wine Tasting with four wines paired with specially chosen desserts, along with wine making presentation by the winemaker, William Holzhauer. The garden room, gift shop and artist gallery are a wonderful setting to relax for the afternoon and enjoy the des-serts and wine pairing experience!

The selections will include: Princessa California Champagne

paired with Apple/Pineapple Tart; Rosa Rosa White Syrah paired with Pumpkin Pecan Delight; Primera Rosa Cabernet Sauvi-gnon / Petite Syrah with Chocolate Truffles; and Shireen Late Har-vest Port with mini cheesecake drizzled in chocolate.

Hacienda de las Rosas Winery will also donate a wine basket to be raffled, with all proceeds from the raffle going to the Sierra Club. So dont forget your spare change and cash!

Space is strictly limited to 50 participants and of course you must be of legal drinking age. All members and their guests are in-vited to attend.

Cost is $30 per person in ad-vance and will include a souvenir wine glass to take home. We need to collect payment in advance as

we need to confirm attendance and are responsible for payment for the number we provide. This will cover all expenses and includes a small donation to the Chapter.

Please RSVP to Richard at [email protected] . You will not be confirmed until we receive your payment. Once we receive your reservation request, we will confirm and provide in-structions for payment. You can pay by check or charge it to your Visa or MasterCard.

San Diego Sipping Sierrans is a social group of fellow mem-bers like you that gather on a regu-lar basis to enjoy and learn about wines, tasty micro-brews and good food, all while having the opportu-nity to engage in conversation and hear about the Chapters programs.

SIPPING SIERRANS Desserts and Wine Tasting November 9, 2008

Join fellow Sierrans and friends for a festive Champagne tasting event on Sunday, December 14 at 3:00 pm at Wine Steals, 1243 Uni-versity Ave in the San Diego com-munity of Hillcrest.

Participants will enjoy tasting four champagnes with specially chosen nibbles. Space is strictly limited to 50 participants and of course you must be of legal drink-ing age. All members and their guests are invited to attend.

Cost is $30 per person in ad-vance and will include a souvenir wine glass to take home. We need to collect payment in advance as we need to confirm attendance and are responsible for payment for the number we provide. This will cover all expenses and includes a small donation to the Chapter.Please RSVP to Richard at [email protected] . You will not be confirmed until we re-ceive your payment. Once we re-

Champagne Tasting December 14, 2008

ceive your reservation request, we will confirm and provide instruc-tions for payment. You can pay by check or charge it to your Visa or MasterCard.

San Diego Sipping Sierrans is a social group of fellow mem-bers like you that gather on a regu-lar basis to enjoy and learn about wines, tasty micro-brews and good food, all while having the opportu-nity to engage in conversation and hear about the Chapters programs.


Get On Your Bicycle and Ride!

Enjoy the outdoors and make friends too. Explore the back roads of San Diego County and neighboring areas

with the Sierra Club Bicycle Section. with the Sierra Club Bicycle Section.

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 own book 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 OutSpoken, phone Tom Yager (760) 479-0187 or e-mail [email protected].

1. Publication Title: The Hi Sierran2. Publication Number: 896-1403. Filing Date: October 1, 20074. Issue Frequency: Bimonthly5. Number of Issues Published Annually: 66. Annual Subscription Price: $127. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication: Sierra Club, San Diego/Imperial County Chapter, 3820 Ray Street, San Diego, CA 92104-3623 (Contact Person: Cheryl Reiff) (Tel: 619-299-1741)8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher: Sierra Club, San Diego/Imperial County Chapter, 3820 Ray Street, San Diego, CA 92104-36239. Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Edi-tor, and Managing Editor: Publisher, Sierra Club, San Diego/Impe-rial County Chapter, 3820 Ray Street, San Diego, CA 92104-3623; Edi-tor, Justin Lewis, c/o Sierra Club, San Diego/Imperial County Chapter, 3820 Ray Street, San Diego, CA 92104-3623; Managing Editor, Hi Sierran Committee, Sierra Club, San Diego/Imperial County Chapter, 3820 Ray Street, San Diego, CA 92104-3623.10. Owner: Sierra Club, San Diego/Imperial County Chapter, 3820 Ray Street, San Diego, CA 92104-362311. Known Bondholders, Mortgages and Other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1% or More of Total Amount of Bonds, Mort-gages, or Other Securities: NONE12. Tax Status: Has not changed during the preceding 12 months.

13. Publication Title: Hi Sierran 14. Issue Date for Circulation Data Below: September/October 2007

15. Extent and Nature of Circulation: Average No. of Copies Each Issue No. Copies of single Issue During Preceding Month Published Nearest to Filing Date

a. Total Number of Copies (Net Press Run) 14,333 14,000b. Paid and/or Requested Circulation(1) Paid/Requested Outside County Mail Subscriptions Stated on Form 3541. 186 195(2) Paid In-County Subscriptions Stated on Form 3541. 12,421 12,182(3) Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Non-USPS Paid Distribution. 10 0(4) Other Classes Mailed Through the USPS. 20 0c. Total Paid and/or Requested Circulation (sum of 15b(1), (2), (3), (4)) 12,637 12,377d. Free Distribution by Mail (Samples, Complimentary, and Other Free)(1) Outside- County as Stated on form 3541. 0 0(2) In-County as Stated on Form 3541. 0 0(3) Other Classes Mailed through the USPS. 0 0(4) Outside the Mail 1059 393e. Total Free Distribution (Sum of 15d (1)(2)(3) and (4) 1059 393f. Total Distribution (Sum of 15c and 15e) 13,696 12,770g. Copies not Distributed 637 1230h. Total (Sum of 15f and 15g) 14,333 14,000i. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation 92% 96.6%16. Publication of Statement of Ownership will be printed in the November/December issue of this publication.17. Patricia Klaasen, Hi Sierran Financial Of cer, September 23, 2007

United States Postal Service Form 3526 (September 2007)

Statement of Ownership. Management, and Circulation


Classifieds...BIG BEAR CABIN RENTALS, pet friendly, high speed internet, Jacuzzis. 800-770-2210 www.big-bear-cabin.com

GET OFF THE COUCH! Experienced Expressive Arts Therapist will work with you in nature to help you manage and create change in your life. Reasonable rates. Call Wes: 619-239-1713, email: [email protected]

MAMMOTH CONDO Skiing, biking, fishing, hik-ingjust getting away for the weekend. 3BD, 2BA, full kitchen, fireplace, pool, spa, sauna. $75 sum-mer, $160 winter. CALL Brad: 619-804-5616.

HOUSE/PET SITTING Long t ime Sierra Club member will give your home and pets the TLC they deserve. References. Dianne. [email protected] or 619-241-6574.

FOSTER LODGE CABIN Group Events at the Sierra Clubs Foster Lodge in the beautiful Laguna Mountains. Full kitchen and rustic accomodations for overnight stays. Available for holistic and religious retreats, clubs, family celebrations, weddings. Rate of $240 per night (includes the first 20 people). For information call Susan Parrish (619) 478-5188. www.sandiego.sierraclub.org/lodge.

MAGIC SHOWS and fun with memories to last a life-time from San Diegos Entertainer of the Year, Magician Michael E. Johnson. 760-747-4627. www.magicianmichael.com.

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 the same time as submission. Send payment to: Sierra Club, 8304 Clairemont Blvd. #101, San Diego, 92111 ATTN: HiSierran Treasurer.

Our chapter has many volunteer opportunities in ad-dition to those included in the wishlist below. Please dont hesitate to call Cheryl 858-569-6005 if you want to help out in any way. (Even if you dont know what you can do for us. We have many and varied needs.)Thanks! Volunteers: Ad manager and salespersons for the Hi Sierran Activities editor for the Hi Sierran Foster Lodge Secretary Water Experts Recycling Volunteers COLs to lead family and easy hikes Family Committee members & COLs

to start up Family Section Transportation Experts or volunteers

interested in helping out Event Planners and Helpers Forest Committee volunteers International Committee volunteers Movie Activists & Movie Night hosts

Things: Donations toward the computer budget

Wishlist: Volunteers & Items Needed

20s & 30s Single SierransFor singles aged 20-39

http://sandiego.sierraclub.org/20s30s/a section of the San Diego Chapter


JOIN THE SIERRA CLUB Yes, I want to be a member of Sierra ClubName ______________________________________________________________________

Address ____________________________________________________________________

City _________________________________ State ____________ Zip ________________

Telephone ____________________________ E-mail _______________________________

Yes, I want to give a gift of membershipI understand that a gift announcement card will be sent for my use. Ive entered my name and address above and the recipients name and address below.

Gift recipients name __________________________________________________________

Address ___________________________________________________________________

City ________________________________ State _____________ Zip _______________

Telephone ___________________________ E-mail _______________________________You can also join via the web: http//sandiego.sierraclub.org/home/index.asp?content+joinorgiveSend your address changes to: Sierra Club Member Services, PO Box 52968, Boulder, CO 80322-2968

MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES INDIVIDUAL JOINT

Introductory $25 Regular $39 $47Supporting $75 $100Contributing $150 $175Life $1,000 $1,250Senior/Student $24 $32Limited Income $24 $32

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_______________________ FRUOF94QW05001

Expiration Date

Contribution, gifts and dues to the Sierra Club are not tax-deductable; they support our effective, citizen-based advocacy and lobbying efforts. Your dues indclude $7.50 for a subscription to Sierra Magazine and $1 for the Hi Sierran (chapter newsletter).

TODAY!

TODAY!

Green Measures continued from page 1

of adequate fire protection before approving a new subdivision and would have required that the proj-ect be designed for fire prevention and emergency response. The gov-ernor vetoed the bill.

The Legislature attempted to clean up the highly polluted air around the mega-ports of Los An-geles, Long Beach and Oakland. SB 974, written by Senator Alan Lowenthal (D-Long Beach) and vetoed by Schwarzenegger, would have assessed a fee on each con-tainer shipped through those ports and used the revenues to fund improvements in air quality and transportation.

Also falling victim to the gov-ernors veto pen and big business opposition was SB 1113, authored by Senator Carole Migden (D-San Francisco). The bill would have given environmental and con-

sumer attorneys who sue pollut-ers more power to hire expert wit-nesses, such as scientists, by al-lowing them to recover those costs when they won cases important to the public interest.

Of the 10 highest-priority bills we identified for action by the gov-ernor in September, he took the pro-environment position on only three.

Win Some, Lose Some in the Legislature

Most of the thousands of bills introduced this year never made it out of the Legislature. Lawmak-ers wisely rejected AB 1991, which would have suspended environ-mental rules to promote harmful developments in coastal marsh-lands near Half Moon Bay. Thou-sands of Sierra Club volunteers e-mailed their representatives, tell-

ing them that would be a bad idea and our lawmakers listened.

As budget gridlock increased tensions in the Capitol, some im-portant measures failed to progress to the Assembly and Senate floors for votes. Sierra Club California is disappointed particularly in the untimely deaths of bills that would have raised the states renewable energy standard to 33% by 2020, created an outdoor education program for at-risk youth and re-quired a 20% per-capita reduction in urban water use.

With this years legislative ses-sion behind us, Sierra Club Califor-nias advocates and activists will now focus on implementing our new laws and continuing to press for progress on vital environmen-tal issues in 2009.

San Diego ChapterCOME VISIT US AT OUR NEW OFFICE:8304 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. #101

San Diego, CA 92111on the north side & just west of the 163PHONE 858-569-6005 FAX 858-569-0968 OFFICE HOURS: Monday-Friday 12-5 P.M. (PLEASE CALL AHEAD) CHAPTER COORDINATOR Cheryl Reiff E-MAIL [email protected] ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Martha Bertles E-MAIL [email protected] SMART ENERGY SOLUTIONS Micah Mitrosky 858-569-0294 CHAPTER IT Lee Olsen 619-822-4357

C O M M I T T E E & C O N T A C T I N F O R M A T I O N

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEETHE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE meetsthe 3rd Wednesday of every month at 6:30pmCHAIR Richard Miller (2008) . . . . . . . . . . 619-291-3061 [email protected] CHAIR Chris Schmidt (2009) . . . . . 858-794-8919

[email protected] Joe Zechman (2008) . . . . . 619-709-6268

[email protected] Rusanne Anthony (2009) . 619-920-8604 [email protected] Chase (2009) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .858-272-2930 [email protected] Grubb (2009) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .760-753-0273 [email protected] Klaasen (2008) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .619-582-7407 [email protected] Magee (2008) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .858-635-8908 [email protected] Stevens (2008) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 858-673-0891

[email protected]

NORTH COUNTY GROUP (INLAND)THE NCG EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE meets the 2nd Tues. of the month. Contact chair for time and location.CHAIR Pattie Warnick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 760-788-2106 [email protected] CHAIR George Greer . . . . . . . . . . . 760-788-5450 [email protected] Ken Quigley [email protected] Jeff Marchand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .760-728-8220 [email protected]

NORTH COUNTY COASTALTHE COASTERS meet the 3rd Tues. of the month at 7pm, Encinitas Community Center.CHAIR Dave Grubb . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .760-753-0273 [email protected]

INNER CITY OUTINGScall or check website for meeting infoCHAIR Andreas Marek . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .760-633-1526 [email protected]://sandiego.sierraclub.org/ICO

SECTIONS20s & 30s Single SierransVoice Mailbox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .619-544-6124http://sandiego.sierraclub.org/20s30sBicycle Call for meeting info. Tom Yager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .760-470-0187 [email protected]://sandiego.sierraclub.org/bicycle/

Family Committee Jennifer Douglas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 858-344-5490 [email protected] 3rd Thursday, 7pm, Jonathan Fennell [email protected]://sandiego.sierraclub.org/photoclubSingles Section 3rd Monday, 6:30pm Call for location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 619-708-8111http://sandiego.sierraclub.org/singles

CONSERVATION COMMITTEEmeets 2nd Tuesday, 6:30pmCHAIR Linda Briggs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .619-528-8545 [email protected] Canyons Call for mtg info Carrie Schneider . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 619-282-3645 [email protected] Larry Klaasen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .619-582-7407 [email protected] Coastal call Joanne for meeting info Joanne Pearson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .858-459-7041 [email protected] Conservation Action Network (CAN) call for mtg. info Renee Owens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .619-447-4979 [email protected] Desert call for mtg. info Larry Klaasen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .619-582-7407 [email protected] Forest & Wilderness 1st Wednesday, 6:30 pm David Voss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .760-717-8823 [email protected] Jack Paxton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .760-744-3282 [email protected] Global Warming 1st Monday, 6pm Donald Lee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .858-643-0024 [email protected] Jean Costa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .619-463-0721 International 4th Monday, 6:30pm Jean Costa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .619-463-0721 Land Use Call for mtg. info Jeanette Hartman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .619-318-6634 [email protected] Parks Call for mtg. info Devore Smith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .619-286-8905 [email protected] Smart Energy Solutions Task Force Call for info Richard Miller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .619-291-3061 [email protected] CAMPAIGN ORGANIZER Micah Mitrosky . 619-299-1797 [email protected] Water Call for mtg. info Ed Kimura . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .858-569-2025 [email protected] Webmaster (ConsCom) Dave George [email protected] Wildlife 2nd Wed., 7pm Ellen Shively . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .619-479-3412 [email protected]

OUTINGS COMMITTEEMeets quarterly, call for info.CHAIR Jim Matlock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .858-748-4634 Bus Trips Mike Fry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .858-748-5166 COL Training Jim Jafolla . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .619-295-6680 [email protected] Leadership Review & Safety Committee Marty Stevens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .858-673-0891 [email protected] Mountaineering Byron Cook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .619-888-2831 [email protected] Pacific Crest Trail Occasional work parties Rob Langsdorf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .858-459-1726 Ski 2nd Tuesday, 6pm (November through April) Mike Fry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .858-748-5166 Wednesday in the Mountains Lois Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .619-280-1747 Wilderness Basics (WBC) WBC Info Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .858-467-5074 [email protected] Jeff Marchand (WBC North County) . . . . . . . 760-728-8220 [email protected]

STANDING & SPECIAL COMS.Finance Call for info . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .....VACANTFoster Lodge 3rd Tuesday, 5:30pm Large and Small Cabin Reservations/Info Susan Parrish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .619-478-5188Friday MixersJan Schalkwijk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .619-269-0329 [email protected] 4th Thursday, 6pmRichard Miller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .619-291-3061 [email protected] Sierran 2nd Monday, 6pm see page 2 for more infoPauline Jimenez . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .619-660-9898 [email protected] Weaver (leave message at chapter office) . . . 619-299-1743Membership Bob McDowell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .858-505-9676 [email protected] ProgramsMannie Kugler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .619-585-3773Nature Knowledge WorkshopLee Siegel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 619-583-3261Barry Hite (Assistant) [email protected] 1st Thursday, 6pmRichard Miller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .619-291-3061 [email protected]

nov 2008 san diego sierra

Documents

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toxic products

environmental protection

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california families

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schwarzenegger administration