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Colorado 80322-2968 Or e-mail your membership number and your correct address to: address.changes@ sfsierra.sierraclub.org Please allow 4 - 6 weeks for processing.

CORRECTION ?

A DDRESS

VIEW FROM
The recall election may be over, but the fight for the environment continues. There is no doubt that the election of Arnold Schwarzenegger will bring about change. The question is what kind of change, and how will it relate to the environment. Personally, I am a little pessimistic, considering that the Governor-elect suggested that the state Environmental Protection Agency needed to be eliminated. Is this an indication of the future? If so, it does not bode well for us. We will need to be more vigilant than ever to ensure that the fight to protect our environment remains a priority for California. It will take a commitment from all of us to ensure that California is able to attain renewable energy and a safe clean world for our kids to live in. Our fight to make sure that corporations pay their fair share of the cost of cleaning up the environment cannot be forgotten. An interesting observation is that pollsters reported that Schwarzenegger was elected due to deep emotional anger toward incumbents. The "throw the bums out" mentality seems to have overcome voters fear of Schwarzeneggers lack of experience and refusal to offer a clear plan for our future. If this mentality and distrust of incumbents can be (and should be) properly directed toward the Bush administration and current congressional leadership, our fight could be greatly aided! Imagine an administration that actually wants to help the environment and not use it to their finan-

CHANGE IS IN THE AIR, BUT WHAT KIND WILL IT BE?

THE

by Richard Miller, Chapter Chair

CHAIR

cial advantage! This strategy urgently needs to be our mission in the coming year. Clearly, voters saw the need for change. But are voters ready to revolt against business as usual and against the big-money politics that continue to open our national lands to development, reduce our air quality, ignore endangered species and pollute our waters? I certainly hope so.

PERSONALLY, I

SUGGESTED

CONSIDERING THAT THE THAT

AM A LITTLE PESSIMISTIC, THE

GOVERNOR-ELECT

HI SIERRAN STAFF
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Together, we can promote a common vision for the future and a cleaner world. In another important election, that for the Chapter Executive Committee, I would like to congratulate those elected and extend a hearty thank you to those not elected for caring enough to seek election. Welcome to new members David Hogan, Byron Anderson, Carolyn Chase and Matthias Blume. Welcome back to Devore Smith who won reelection. I would also like to thank those Excom members who will be leaving us: Ellen Shively, Robert Simmons, Tom HS Mullaney and John Wilks.

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY NEEDED TO BE ELIMINATED.

STATE

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2003 NOTES FROM THE CHAPTER COORDINATOR

Wow! So many exciting things are happening in our Chapter that it is hard to keep up with it all. In the past couple of months weve had an emotional lunch with Barbara Boxer, a Water Forum, a debate of the candidates for City Attorney, the Singles Sections Mountain Madness event, a North County Coast Walk, and ExCom Elections! This, in addition to wonderful hikes, fun activities and our ongoing programs and meetings. Our chapter is packed with great people and great things to do. If youve been thinking about switching to solar energy, this is a great time to do it. This year, the State of California is giving a 50% rebate on solar equipment. Next year the rebate will be less. We are fortunate to have a few solar companies advertising in this newsletter. Give them a call and find out more about this opportunity. You will reduce your costs while contributing to a safer, cleaner environment and gaining independence from oil companies. By taking advantage of current mortgage rates, I was able to refinance and get solar energy for my home. If I can do it on my nonprofit salary, you probably can too! With the year coming to an end you might want to start thinking about New Years resolutions. In January we will be kicking off the Four Forests Campaign. We need your support! Watch for more info in the Jan/Feb 2004 Hi Sierran. The campaign involves getting support for the Conservation Alternative of the Forest Plan Update. The Cleveland National Forest was established as our major watershed area. It is very important to the health of our San Diego County ecosystems and to our personal recreational, physical, mental, and spiritual needs. Connecting with nature is one thing we can do to maintain balance in this hectic world. We need to reconnect and remember who we are in relation to everything else, to remember that we are also a part of nature and that we, as well as the wildlife, need wild places. We are always looking for more volunteers for the Chapter Office and Bookstore. If you have a couple of free hours a week, we can use your help. With all the things we need, you dont have to be a scientist or have an environmental degree to contribute. All you need is time and the desire to make a difference. We have a lot of fun and good camaraderie here while we work, and youll be surprised at what a difference you can make! Give me a call at 619-299-1741, and Ill help you choose a meaningful and fulfilling volunteer activity. You can even get job experience or do an internship. Ill look forward to talking to you and to helping you realize your New Years goals! Please remember our bookstore when you think about your holiday shopping sprees. Our cards and calendars are wonderful, and we now have organic fair trade Sierra Club Coffee and other natural products. I have so enjoyed working another year for the Sierra Club, the San Diego Chapter, for our Earth and with all of you wonderful and people. Thank you so much for the opportunity. My life is truly blessed! Enjoy the Holiday Season and stay safe! Cheryl Reiff, San Diego Sierra Club Chapter Coordinator

Exercise the power to spin your electric meter backwards!

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WED LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU!

Send 250 words or less via email: hisierraneditor@sierraclubsandiego.org or by mail to our office address. Submission is no guarantee that the letter will be published, and we reserve the right to edit all material.

page 3 San Diego Chapter November/December 2003 Hi Sierran

The Border Committees Water Forum guest speakers Lori Saldana and Jean Costa provided an excellent overview of geopolitics and transborder issues, predictions on the future of water availability and discussed the considerable problems associated with privatization. They showed how the community at large loses control when these services are privatized and noted that concerns over profits may take precedence over protecting public health and the environment. The Sierra Club, Bay Keeper and Surfrider Foundation have been able to negotiate for nearly a year with the City of San Diego about planned improvements to water/wastewater infrastructure, primarily because of the threat of lawsuits against the City brought under state and federal laws. Privatization of water resources could jeapordize this powerful negotiation option. Keeping a public resource (water) under public management prevents abuses. The Border Environmental Cooperation Commission (BECC), established as a side agreement to NAFTA in 1993, has offered a new model of binational development, and has certified nearly $2 billion in infrastructure development projects along the US-Mexico border since 1994. By using a combination of grants and funds, the BECC has helped improve the International Wastewater Treatment Plant so we dont have the dirty, smelly, discolored mess in the ocean over the outfall that now exists. Unfortunately, funding for the rebuilding of Iraq is taking away funds for the BECC and related border environmental programs. Oscar Romo, environmental advisor to Mexican President Vicente Fox, presented a PowerPoint about Mexicos serious shortage, due in part to the traditional methods of depending on rainfall and inadequate retrieval and storage facilities. Fred Lorenzen and Renee Owens organized a very informative class on writing comments to Environmental Impact Report proposals for building and development projects. One student wants to block a 50-unit project near her home. Another is interested in the Ramona area. This subject is timely as the Countys General Plan 2020 is approaching final deliberations on restructuring the zoning restrictions. Public comments to the County Board of Supervisors cover a spectrum of special interests, from declarations on the rights of private property owners to statistics on lowered water tables, infrastructure shortcomings and the need for protection of large swaths of open spaces to protect our rural lands and heritage. Thanks to Fred and Renee for this valuable information at a crucial time in our Countys General Plan updating process. Did you hear about the proposal for a San Diego Urban Canyonlands Park? A recent article in the Union Tribune described our canyons as a unique topological feature, unique in America: A slowly disappearing web of canyons that could link the entire region. It goes on to say that the Sierra Clubs Canyons Campaign has created 18 Friends of the Canyon groups dotted all over the urban landscape. If well organized, such a park or preserve system could monitor the many uses of our canyons, organize clean up efforts (no longer funded by the City), seek easements, purchase the hillsides and recruit volunteers to raise money. The Sierra Clubs Eric Bowlby envisions our canyons restored to their natural state with walking routes connecting them. As an untapped source of public open space, its an appealing vision.

Conservation Highlights!

page 4 San Diego Chapter November/December 2003 Hi Sierran

On September 18, 2003, The San Diego River Coalition celebrated its second year. Our chapter was one of the Founding members. Cindy Buxton was recognized for her work to save the head waters of the river under the Wild and Scenic River portion of the California Wild Heritage Act now seeking approval in the U.S. Congress. John Wilks is representing us at the Technical Advisory Committee with City Council member Donna Frye. During a presentation on the toxic waste dump on the south shore of Mission Bay, he cautioned the members about allowing SeaWorld to renew their leasing contract with the City. Ms. Frye said that issue would require further investigation. Our chapter has taken a position to support the Living Wage Campaign. An ordinance that puts some muscle into the concept, backed by our endorsement, went before City Council on October 22nd. Environmental alliances with LABOR have enjoyed great success, with Donna Frye and Michael Zuchette winning important seats. Both groups take a collaborative stance against sprawl. We had a very successful press release/event last May with LABOR in the headlines. A highlight included Julayne Gath, Executive Board Member, Service Employees International (Union Local 2080), Registered Environmental Health Specialist in San Diego County saying: I am here to tell you that sprawl is not a good option for working people. Working men and women should be able to afford to live near where they work and utilize safe and efficient forms of public transportation. Unfortunately, this is not a reality in our county, but daily hassles of traffic congestion, environmental hazards and high housing costs are. Finally, the Conservation Committee and Inner City Outings (ICO) are pleased to cooperatively offer a fun(d) time for you in early January to raise money for our various activities. Our ICO program is one of the best in the country, providing recreational hikes for urban kids who may not otherwise have access to these experiences. See page 5 for our On the Town night out to include a light dinner at St. Tropez Bistro followed by an animal - free stage performance of Cirque-Dreams. Youll double your enjoyment of HS this event knowing you are benefiting our future.

NONNATIVE PLANTS IN RUFFIN CANYON, INCLUDING PALMS AND PAMPAS GRASS ARE A PRIORITY FOR THE SIERRA CLUB, PHOTO BY GLENN TORBETT

Chapter Notes
ON THE TOWN WITH THE SIERRA CLUB!
MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR JANUARY 7TH, 2004 The Chapter Conservation Committee and Inner City Outings (ICO), whose purpose is getting local youth into the outdoors, are pleased to bring you a wonderful fun-d raiser social evening. Enjoy dining with other local members, then stroll to the show just three blocks away!

DATE: Wednesday, January 7, 2004 *(please send in your reservation by December 15th). DINNER: 5:00 pm, St. Tropez Bistro, 2nd Ave. at Broadway Circle (in Horton Plaza). Includes soup, Quiche or Panini (hot sandwiches), salad, dessert and coffee/tea. EVENT: 7:00 pm, Cirque-Dreams - An interactive entertainment event for the entire family! At Civic Theatre - 3rd & B Street in downtown San Diego. Select from the following options: Price $30.00 $45.00 $16.00 Play Only # of People Total

Dinner Only

Dinner & Play

Additional donations gratefully accepted. Specify ICO or ConsCom. Send form and your check made out to SD ICO by December 15th to:
For questions contact Sarah: 858-794-8221 or sarahlhahn@hotmail.com

TOTAL AMT. * Vegetarians please choose from the following (one per person): Quiche _____ or Eggplant Panini _____ . Non-vegetarians will choose meals at the restaurant. Sierra Club Inner City Outings, c/o Sarah Hahn 8505 Stevens Ave. #2310, Solana Beach, CA 92075

Bicycle Section
WEEKENDS AT ANZA BORREGO & WARNER SPRINGS POTLUCK SUPPERS
AND MORE

Sierra Club
BIKE RIDES ON ROAD
AND TRAIL

The San Diego Natural History Museum, in collaboration with the Irvine Museum, premieres its new exhibition, Plant Portraits: The California Legacy of A.R. Valentien, from December 12, 03 September 7, 04. This exhibition is a display of 80 stunning watercolors of native California plants painted in the early 1900s. In addition to the lifelike paintings, the exhibition will include examples of Valentien's Rookwood pottery, landscapes in oil, historical photographs, and personal artifacts. After its debut in San Diego, the exhibition will tour to museums and gardens across the United States. The Valentien watercolor collection has been a treasured part of the Museum's holdings since 1933, when they were donated to the Museum Library from Miss Scripps' estate. Through all these years, the collection has been seen by only a few fortunate people, who longed to share the breathtaking freshness and liveliness of these plant portraits, as Mr. Valentien called them, with the public, said Dr. Michael Hager, executive director of the Museum. Take this special opportunity to see native plants HS through the eyes of an artist!

WATERCOLORS OF NATIVE CALIFORNIA PLANTS ON DISPLAY

HS

Bike Section Membership............................. $12

FOR A FREE NEWSLETTER CALL: 619-282-0425

SD County Bicycle Coalition Membership (normally $25 if joining the coalition separately).... $10

The monthly ride list for the Sierra Club Bike Section is also available via the World Wide Web: sandiego.sierraclub.org/bicycle/ Prospective members can receive a free sample newsletter by e-mail: tfrey@sunstroke.sdsu.edu or by calling Terry Frey (619)282-0425

Make check out to Sierra Club Bicycle Section, and mail the check with form to: Sierra Club Bike Section 4543 Maryland St., San Diego, CA 92116

FOR

page 5 San Diego Chapter November/December 2003 Hi Sierran

A MEMBERSHIP FORM TO JOIN CLUB SEE P. 10

SIERRA

SIERRA CLUB LARRY DUMLAO GALLERY ANNOUNCES TWO NEW OPENINGS:

Chapter Notes (cont.)

Painter Selena Wilson shares her work, Nov. 9-Dec. 13. Mannie Leon Kugler shares his large abstract paintings, December 13-January 10

Mannie Leon Kugler, December 13 - January 10: Mannie Leon Kugler spent 25 years as a judge in San Diego before deciding to attend art classes at Southwestern Community College. Two years ago, Mannie was inspired by a documentary film about Jackson Pollock, and he began to paint large abstract paintings. Most of his canvasses measure 4 X 5 feet. Mannies paintings have been shown at Southwestern Community College, San Diego Art Institute, Bard Hall (Unitarian Church). His work has also previously appeared at the Sierra Club, and Mannie recently had his paintings on display at the First National Bank Center. As a long-time Sierra Club member, Mannie has chaired the monthly

Selena Wilson, November 9 - December 13: Selena Wilson is a third generation native San Diegan. Primarily a painter, her subject matter is often a reflection of the impacts that urban development has on other species. She hopes to, through her art and actions as a community member, aid in the preservation of native species and to inspire others to use their talents and occupations to do the same. While in the process of applying to graduate school, she supports herself as a freelance artist doing architectural renderings, murals, and private art instruction.

chapter meeting for the past 18 years. Dont miss his wonderful paintings, including Quiet Space and A Leap of Faith. All gallery shows open on the scheduled first night at 6:00 pm, with the artist present. These second Saturday of the month openings coincide with the monthly Ray at Night arts and culture celebrations on Ray Street, featuring over a dozen gallery openings presenting a variety of mediums ranging from paintings and sculpture to poetry and music. Come and have some fun! The Sierra Club Larry Dumlao Gallery is open Monday - Friday from 12 - 5 pm, at the Sierra Club Bookstore and Office, 3820 Ray Street in North Park. A percentage of the proceeds from the sale of original art directly benefits the Sierra Club Bookstore, San Diego Chapter. For information about the Sierra Club Larry Dumlao Art Gallery, contact Leslie McNabb, Ray at Night Coordinator, at: gallery@sierraclubsandiego.org. HS

There has been an 82% reduction in the Kilimanjaro ice cap since 1912?

Did you Know?

page 6 San Diego Chapter November/December 2003 Hi Sierran