by Ellen Esposito
Since its inception in 1992, the Mission Hills Association has been working diligently to monitor development of the Crazy Cat and adjacent mountain areas adjacent to Mission Hills, Piedmont Hills, Ridgecrest Estates, etc. Twice we have advocated for the preservation of the mountainside above the east side of O’Keefe Dr. and have prevailed. New plans for a development called Kern View Estates 2 were scheduled to be presented to City Council on August 19, 2014. The plans, which were approved by the City Planning Commission, call for the construction of 60 townhouse units on this site.
City Council has postponed review of the site plan for 60 days in order to get an appraisal of the property and have time to speak with the landowner, Piedmont Group LLC, regarding a possible sale of the property to the city and/or a property improvement district (PID). Updates on the status are being posted on the Mission Hills Facebook https://www.facebook.com/MissionHillsAssociation. We continue to request that friends of the mountain send letters opposing the site development plan to Mayor Leeser and their city council representative.
Monday, September 15, 2014
Monday, July 21, 2014
Promote your Organization
The El Paso Chapter of the Native Plant Society of New Mexico is hosting the New Mexico State Meeting August 1 and 2 at Canutillo High School.
We would like to offer you an opportunity to promote your organization at our conference.
We would like to offer sister not for profit organizations a table and two chairs for sharing information about your organization. If you do not sell anything, there will be no charge for participating. If you sell anything, you will be charged $25.00 for your space.
Table attendants who register for the meeting will be able to attend conference sessions and enjoy meal and snack activities. Table attendants who do not register will not be able to attend sessions or participate in food functions.
Program information and registration materials are available at www.npsnm.org. Click on Events for details.
For additional information, contact Jim Hastings at jimhastings@elp.rr.com, eprjh1@gmail.com, 915-240-7414 or Kathy Barton at agustusmc@sbcglobal.net, 915-592-1705.
We would like to offer you an opportunity to promote your organization at our conference.
We would like to offer sister not for profit organizations a table and two chairs for sharing information about your organization. If you do not sell anything, there will be no charge for participating. If you sell anything, you will be charged $25.00 for your space.
Table attendants who register for the meeting will be able to attend conference sessions and enjoy meal and snack activities. Table attendants who do not register will not be able to attend sessions or participate in food functions.
Program information and registration materials are available at www.npsnm.org. Click on Events for details.
For additional information, contact Jim Hastings at jimhastings@elp.rr.com, eprjh1@gmail.com, 915-240-7414 or Kathy Barton at agustusmc@sbcglobal.net, 915-592-1705.
The healing power of our mountains and what they mean to our veterans
by Rick LoBello
Soon after Organ Mountains Desert Peaks National Monument was created by President Obama's use of the Antiquities Act, a blog post by Garett Reppenhagen, Rocky Mountain West
Coordinator of the Vet Voice Foundation reminded me of some comments I heard in Las Cruces. Earlier this year Secretary of the Interior Salley Jewell came to meet with local folks and
stakeholders about the proposed national monument. Many who spoke out at the public meeting were Veterans, and they reminded all of us of the healing power of mountains for soldiers
returning from the battlefield and all the stresses of adjusting back to civilian life. It was very
clear to me then and today that often times we do not think about how the mountains we want
to protect are perfect locales for fighting pain and mental stresses, not just for everyday folks,
but also for our Veterans. Reppenhagen reminds all of us of this when he wrote “Veterans across America thank New Mexico Senators Udall and Heinrich for introducing legislation to help
call attention to this wondrous land, and Interior Secretary Sally Jewell for taking the time to
visit the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks region and listening to the input of Las Cruces area
veterans
When I was growing up many of my uncles and my grandfather were Veterans of World Wars I, II and the Korean War. When they returned home nearly all of them spent their weekends
roaming the mountains of Western New York State on camping trips and during the hunting and fishing seasons. As I look back on that time I realize how important these mountains were to my family as they dealt with the everyday stresses of not only adjusting to civilian life, but also to
life in general.
Mountains have always been a source of healing in my own life and in to the lives of so many of
my friends. Here in El Paso we must not forget that we have thousands of Veterans who have
recently returned from the battlefields of Afghanistan and Iraq. They too need the healing
power of these mountains, not just in the Organs, but in the Franklin Mountains as well.
When we talk to our friends and relatives and elected officials we should bring this point up to
them and remind them that working to protect our natural heritage is not only important to our
ecosystem, but also to the mental well-being of those who have fought for their country and
helped to protect our freedoms. And let us not forget those who gave the ultimate sacrifice, they
have families here who need our mountains too.
Coordinator of the Vet Voice Foundation reminded me of some comments I heard in Las Cruces. Earlier this year Secretary of the Interior Salley Jewell came to meet with local folks and
stakeholders about the proposed national monument. Many who spoke out at the public meeting were Veterans, and they reminded all of us of the healing power of mountains for soldiers
returning from the battlefield and all the stresses of adjusting back to civilian life. It was very
clear to me then and today that often times we do not think about how the mountains we want
to protect are perfect locales for fighting pain and mental stresses, not just for everyday folks,
but also for our Veterans. Reppenhagen reminds all of us of this when he wrote “Veterans across America thank New Mexico Senators Udall and Heinrich for introducing legislation to help
call attention to this wondrous land, and Interior Secretary Sally Jewell for taking the time to
visit the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks region and listening to the input of Las Cruces area
veterans
When I was growing up many of my uncles and my grandfather were Veterans of World Wars I, II and the Korean War. When they returned home nearly all of them spent their weekends
roaming the mountains of Western New York State on camping trips and during the hunting and fishing seasons. As I look back on that time I realize how important these mountains were to my family as they dealt with the everyday stresses of not only adjusting to civilian life, but also to
life in general.
Mountains have always been a source of healing in my own life and in to the lives of so many of
my friends. Here in El Paso we must not forget that we have thousands of Veterans who have
recently returned from the battlefields of Afghanistan and Iraq. They too need the healing
power of these mountains, not just in the Organs, but in the Franklin Mountains as well.
When we talk to our friends and relatives and elected officials we should bring this point up to
them and remind them that working to protect our natural heritage is not only important to our
ecosystem, but also to the mental well-being of those who have fought for their country and
helped to protect our freedoms. And let us not forget those who gave the ultimate sacrifice, they
have families here who need our mountains too.
Join the effort to preserve land around our mountains
Join the effort to preserve land and water, make living in El Paso more affordable and create more space for wildlife habitats and corridors and outdoors recreation. The Franklin Mountains Conservation Petition Calls for Saving Land on both sides of the mountain. Anyone who is a registered voter residing in the City of El Paso can sign it. Be sure to put your complete birth date and fill in all spaces. You do not need to fill in the VUID (voter registration number).
You can now go to any of these eight retail locations and find a copy of the petition to sign:
We need at least 2,310 signatures, so every voice counts. We need your support for the future of our mountains!
The petition can also be found online here:
http://elpasonaturally.
You can now go to any of these eight retail locations and find a copy of the petition to sign:
- Chuck’s Bicycle Repair, 700 East Yandell Drive;
- The Bicycle Company,3800 North Mesa Street;
- Crazy Cat Cyclery University, 2625 North Mesa Street;
- Crazy Cat Cyclery, 6625 Montana Avenue;
- Crazy Cat Cyclery Redd Rock, 5650 N Desert Blvd # B;
- Casa de Yoga, 2419 Stanton;
- Reliance Outdoor Supply, 1060 Doniphan Park Circle;
- Joe Vinny Bronsons Bohemian Café, 824 N. Piedras.
We need at least 2,310 signatures, so every voice counts. We need your support for the future of our mountains!
The petition can also be found online here:
http://elpasonaturally.
Wednesday, July 16, 2014
Summer Safety in the Franklin Mountains
by Adriana Weickhardt
The first week of June saw record breaking highs, reaching a
peak at 109 degrees! With temperatures
soaring early in the season, it’s critical that people take all necessary
precautions to keep themselves safe and healthy.
The basic preparations that all hikers, bikers and nature
enthusiasts should make are as follows:
Stay hydrated, wear proper eye and outwear protection, wear sunscreen, stay
on trails, carry a flashlight, let others know what your plans are and make
sure to check weather forecasts before your outings to avoid potential flash
flooding.
Before you take off on your adventures, make sure that you
first let someone know where you are going and when you intend to return. You’ve probably heard and read about Aron
Ralston (or watched the movie about him – “127 Hours”) – his critical mistake
was not telling anyone where he was going.
Have your plan of action, know which trails you’re taking, and make sure
you stay on them; following the trails not only helps protect our fragile
desert environment, but also helps keep you “found”. And finally, amongst your other survival
items you pack, a flashlight is essential – or could be. You may have full intentions of arriving to
your vehicle or home before dark, but intentions often times are thwarted by
curiosity and intrigue to explore other trails and areas or by accidents. It’s better to have your light source and not
need it than the opposite.
Monsoon season is just around the corner, typically
beginning at the end of June and lasting through August.
"There are two easy ways to die in the desert: thirst
and drowning"
- Craig Childs, from the cover of The Secret Knowledge of Water
- Craig Childs, from the cover of The Secret Knowledge of Water
Your number one and
most important item in your backpack is water.
Plan on taking “more than enough” water with you; there are no natural
water sources found in the Franklin Mountains.
When you’ve consumed half of your supply, it’s time to turn back and make
sure to keep extra water in your vehicle.
Don’t try to ration your water; water will only do you good if you drink
it!
Though it seems
counter intuitive, wearing long sleeves and long pants made of breathable
material will keep you cooler and provide extra protection from the sun. Some outdoor specific clothing is made with
material that offers UV protection; however, it’s always wise to apply
sunscreen no matter your clothing choice.
Often times,
outdoor recreationalists don’t consider the chances of drowning as they’re
playing in the desert during the summer – it seems like an oxymoron. But flash flooding and drowning are real
dangers in our desert southwest environment, especially during the summer and
fall. Sudden isolated thunderstorms can
bring heavy rains that run off mountains into canyons and arroyos and can
create walls of rushing water that bring with them debris, boulders, and
mud. It’s crucial to check the local
forecast before heading out on your outdoor adventures! If heavy rains do occur and the potential for
flash flooding exists, head for high ground and wait for the skies to
clear. If you’re in a vehicle, don’t
attempt to drive through flooded areas.
The park
experiences its peak for mountain rescues during the summer season. Most often the reason for the rescue is due
to a lack of preparation on the part of the visitor – not enough water,
inexperience with the terrain, and lack of consideration for the heat and
weather.
You can enjoy the
mountains year round with modifications to behavior and preparedness for the
changing seasons. Early morning and
evening times are optimum for a fully enjoyable summer outdoor experience.
Join us throughout the summer for our
programs at the park:
JULY
Sat., July 5: 5:00 a.m. Peak Fitness Challenge – Ron
Coleman Trail
Sat., July 12: 8:00 a.m. Nature Walk Trail Hike
Sun., July 13: 7:00 a.m. Intermediate Mountain Bike Ride
Sat., July 19: 7:00 a.m. Beginner’s Mountain Bike Ride
Sun., July 20: 9:00 a.m. West Cottonwood Springs Mine Tour
Sat., July 26: 8:00 a.m. Nature Walk Trail Hike
AUGUST
Sat., August 2: 7:00 a.m. - “Bark in the Park” hike
Sun., August 3: 9:00 a.m. West Cottonwood Springs Mine Tour
Fri., August 8: 8:00 a.m.
Nature Walk Trail Hike
Sat., August 9: 7:00 a.m. Beginner’s Mountain Bike Ride
Sat., August 16: 7:00 a.m. Women’s Beginner’s Hike
Sun., August 17: 7:00 a.m.
Intermediate Mountain Bike Ride
Sat., August 23: TBD Chihuahuan Desert Chili Challenge (Chili
Cook Off)
“Celebration
of Our Mountains”
(September
through November)
SEPTEMBER
Sept. 7 – 8:00 a.m. Nature
Walk Trail
Sept 7 - 8:00 a.m. Women’s MTB
Ride
Sat., September 13 &
14: 9:30 a.m. Texas Outdoor Family
Campout
Sat., September 20: 9:00 a.m. 10th Annual Chihuahuan Desert
Fiesta
Sun., September 21: 9:00 a.m. West Cottonwood Springs Mine Tour
Sun., September 21: 7:00 a.m. Intermediate Mountain Bike Ride
OCTOBER
Oct. 4 - 8:00 a.m. Women’s MTB
Ride (Beginner’s)
Oct. 5 – 7:00 a.m. Beginner’s
Bike Ride
Oct. 11 and 12 – TBD Franklin
Mountains State Park Volunteer Orientation – Campout
Oct. 25 - 8:00 a.m. Women’s
MTB Workshop (Beginner’s)
Oct. 31 – TBD Halloween Mine
Tour
NOVEMBER
Nov 1. – TBDHappy Tails n’ Happy Trails (Dog
adoption fair and fun activities to do with your pooch)
Nov. 2 - 9:00 a.m. Women’s MTB
Ride (Beginner’s)
Nov. 8 – 9:00 a.m. Beginner’s Bike Ride
Nov. 15 – 7:00 a.m. Peak
Fitness Challenge Hike – North Franklin Peak
Nov. 16 – 9:00 a.m. Intermediate
Bike Ride
Nov. 16 – 9:00 a.m. Nature
Walk Trail
Nov. 22 – 9:00 a.m. Women’s
Beginner’s Hike – Lower Sunset Trail
Nov. 27 – 9:00 a.m. Turkey
Trail Trilogy (3 hikes, back to back)
Call (915) 566-6441 for more information and
to make your reservations.
Monday, May 19, 2014
Palisades Trailhead - Findings from the 2nd Public Charrette
On February 18th, the Planning Division and Parks & Recreation Department held a second community meeting and design charrette to gain additional community feedback regarding public preferences for the design of a proposed trailhead that will serve the Palisades Park. The primary purposes of the meeting included:
Over 50 meeting attendees participated in three exercises designed to fulfill these purposes and refine and provide greater detail on the information obtained at the first meeting. Findings from the second charrette reinforce many of the minimalist themes communicated during the first. Overall, those scenarios with the smallest footprint received the greatest amount of positive feedback, while amenities such as a cross-walk linking the Palisades Park trailhead to the Billy Rogers Arroyo Park, the provision of a slip-lane along Robinson and a gathering space at the trailhead’s entrance were viewed favorably. Adequate parking balanced by minimal intrusion into the park continued to be a concern with many participants observing that well-hidden on-site parking was a strength of many of the plans.
To view the full report and to learn more about this important issue visit:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/pl5mr7nxuqsxew2/Palisades%20II%20Results.pdf
- Sharing the results of the first public design charrette with the community held in late November;
- Presenting and obtaining public feedback on five new scenarios designed after the first community meeting; and
- Gauging public preference on the design and direction of public art to be incorporated into the site.
Over 50 meeting attendees participated in three exercises designed to fulfill these purposes and refine and provide greater detail on the information obtained at the first meeting. Findings from the second charrette reinforce many of the minimalist themes communicated during the first. Overall, those scenarios with the smallest footprint received the greatest amount of positive feedback, while amenities such as a cross-walk linking the Palisades Park trailhead to the Billy Rogers Arroyo Park, the provision of a slip-lane along Robinson and a gathering space at the trailhead’s entrance were viewed favorably. Adequate parking balanced by minimal intrusion into the park continued to be a concern with many participants observing that well-hidden on-site parking was a strength of many of the plans.
To view the full report and to learn more about this important issue visit:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/pl5mr7nxuqsxew2/Palisades%20II%20Results.pdf
Immerse Yourself in the Franklin Mountains: Become a volunteer.
The community activities, campouts and school field trips have been keeping your park rangers and volunteers busy both in the Franklin Mountains State Park and throughout the city this Spring. It’s a great time of year to get involved with community programs through volunteerism and be a shining El Paso star. You can find numerous ways to participate.
One way is by signing up as a volunteer with the Franklin Mountains State Park. For example, some of our veteran and brand new volunteers have partnered with the rangers in conducting outreach programs, manning booths at events and providing programs for elementary students visiting the park.
These are just a few of the ways you can have an impact in your community through park volunteerism; search for opportunities at any of the three Texas State Parks in El Paso by visiting the following website: http://ec.volunteernow.com/recruiter/index.php?class=VolunteerNavigation&recruiterID=1353&act=CONTROL:OPP_SEARCH_LINK
Our 2014 FMSP Volunteer Orientation will be in July – Saturday, July 12th through Sunday, July 13th. This will be the first FMSP volunteer orientation to offer a campout component, which is sure to be a lot of fun. The Saturday morning portion of the orientation will be indoors; you’ll meet some of our staff, receive presentations on the history of the park, volunteer opportunities, and techniques and tips for effective interpretation. Saturday afternoon will see the group at the Tom Mays Unit where we’ll take a hike to some of our popular areas in the park; we’ll then set up our tents, dine and relax to close the evening. Sunday morning will start with a Dutch oven 101 course to prepare our breakfast, wilderness first aid presentations, demos on a couple of our popular school field trip programs, and a hike and service project.
Whether you are already a park volunteer or are just looking into the possibilities, make your plans to join us and send an email to: Adrianna.weickhardt@tpwd.texas.gov for more information.
One way is by signing up as a volunteer with the Franklin Mountains State Park. For example, some of our veteran and brand new volunteers have partnered with the rangers in conducting outreach programs, manning booths at events and providing programs for elementary students visiting the park.
These are just a few of the ways you can have an impact in your community through park volunteerism; search for opportunities at any of the three Texas State Parks in El Paso by visiting the following website: http://ec.volunteernow.com/recruiter/index.php?class=VolunteerNavigation&recruiterID=1353&act=CONTROL:OPP_SEARCH_LINK
Our 2014 FMSP Volunteer Orientation will be in July – Saturday, July 12th through Sunday, July 13th. This will be the first FMSP volunteer orientation to offer a campout component, which is sure to be a lot of fun. The Saturday morning portion of the orientation will be indoors; you’ll meet some of our staff, receive presentations on the history of the park, volunteer opportunities, and techniques and tips for effective interpretation. Saturday afternoon will see the group at the Tom Mays Unit where we’ll take a hike to some of our popular areas in the park; we’ll then set up our tents, dine and relax to close the evening. Sunday morning will start with a Dutch oven 101 course to prepare our breakfast, wilderness first aid presentations, demos on a couple of our popular school field trip programs, and a hike and service project.
Whether you are already a park volunteer or are just looking into the possibilities, make your plans to join us and send an email to: Adrianna.weickhardt@tpwd.texas.gov for more information.
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