Fall 2010 - Desert Update

No. 67 Fall 2010

Prop. 21–Parks Measure on November Ballot Could be “Game Changer” ERNIE COWAN

Thanks to our devoted members, volunteers and partners, California Secretary of State Debra Bowen qualified the State Parks and Wildlife Conservation Trust Fund of 2010 for the November 2 statewide ballot.

Prop. 21 is a be used for other measure that will purposes. provide a stable and For Anza-Borrego adequate funding Desert State Park, source to keep state persistent budget parks open and cuts have brought well maintained. the challenges The campaign of reduced submitted more staffing, delayed than 760,000 maintenance and signatures, nearly a greater reliance Jennifer Rodriguez twice the number on volunteers. The  No shade for campers at this site in Bow Willow required to qualify park has 13 full-time Campground, where the entire top of the shade ramada the measure. vacancies, among has blown or fallen off.

“This proposition them four law is potentially the most significant game enforcement rangers and two interpreters. changer the Department could ever see,” The consequence of these vacancies was wrote Elizabeth Goldstein, President of felt all year, and particularly during the California State Parks Foundation. spring when the understaffed Park saw nearly 140,000 eager flower-seekers come Approval of Prop. 21 will provide California through the Visitor Center in just three vehicles with free, year-round day-use months. access to state parks, in exchange for a new $18 surcharge. This surcharge will “We simply do not have enough personnel be assessed as part of California’s annual to manage this huge park,” said ABDSP vehicle registration. All California vehicles Superintendent Kathy Dice. “As long as will be subject to the surcharge, except parks are on the general fund, they will larger commercial vehicles, mobile homes always and permanent trailers. Funds from the struggle for FALL/WINTER surcharge will be placed in a trust fund existence.”

ACTIVITIES dedicated specifically to state parks and continued SCHEDULE wildlife conservation, which cannot legally on page 3 IN ST IT U TE

INSIDE!

From the President New Developments for ABF

So far our year has been filled with exciting new developments and changes for the Foundation. These include:

1 BOARD MEMBERS: John Peterson

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PRESIDENT

Chuck Bennett VICE PRESIDENT

Delores Lukina

VP FOR ACQUISITIONS

Ralph Singer

VP FOR ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS

Nicholas Clapp SECRETARY

Wendy Youngren

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TREASURER

TRUSTEES: Marty Allenby Robert Coates Al Ducheny Diana Lindsay Esther Rubin Dick Troy

Victor Botello Ernie Cowan Rick Gulley Bill Reavey Jeffrey Safford

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STAFF: Conrad Kramer

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Martha Baker

MANAGER OF DONOR RELATIONS

Sally Theriault

INSTITUTE MANAGER

Kelley Jorgensen

INTERPRETIVE SALES MANAGER

Briana Ross

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COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR

ANZA-BORREGO FOUNDATION P.O. Box 2001 Borrego Springs, CA 92004 (760) 767-0446 www.theabf.org Anza-Borrego Foundation is a non-profit, tax-exempt [IRS code 501(c) (3)] charitable organization ABF is a member of Earth Share™ of California DESERT UPDATE: Briana Ross EDITOR

The Bloom Organization GRAPHIC DESIGN

Printed in U.S.A. on 50% postconsumer recycled paper.

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Our new Executive Director, Conrad Kramer, officially started working in early May and has been getting up-to-speed on all the activities of ABF. His family joined him in June and they have been enjoying their time getting to know the area.

A joint ABF and Park lawsuit regarding illegal grading of a road on ABDSP and ABF lands resulted in a $740,000 ruling against the defendants. The entire amount of the judgment will be used for restoration of the damaged areas. Though it could take a number of years to reestablish the native plants, ABF is satisfied with the ruling and looks forward to the project’s completion.

ABF has been working with its partners on the protection of lands within the Desert Cahuilla area – nearly 17,000 acres that adjoin the east boundary of the Park, north of highway S22. A split of the acreage is currently being negotiated that would protect the northern  On July 13, Mark Jorgensen received portions of the lands and allow OHV activity proclamations from San Diego County Supervisors Dianne Jacob and Greg Cox for his in the southern portion. volunteer support of ABF and ABDSP. It was with great pride that we saw Mark Jorgensen win first place in the Cox Conserves Heroes program. As you may know, Mark is a retired ABDSP Superintendent and was nominated by ABF for his volunteer efforts in support of the Park, the Foundation, and our sister park, Ikh Nart Nature Reserve in Mongolia.

Congratulations Mark!

Improvements continue at Camp Borrego, our fifth-grade environmental overnight camp. Mark Jorgensen crafted a wonderful entrance sign to identify the facility. The construction of new restroom facilities will begin this fall. Also, the gers will soon sit on elevated concrete slabs to make them more weather resistant for our campers.

In the first half of 2010, a total of 1,104 acres of inholdings were acquired by ABF for inclusion into the Park.

The Foundation continues to assist the Park and community in the protection of what we consider so important. These efforts would not be possible without the support of our members, volunteers, and supporters.

We deeply appreciate the many ways in which you help the Foundation.

Janice Bina-Smith Sincerely,  Campers enjoy their weather-proof ger John Peterson accommodations.

Prop. 21 – Parks Measure on November Ballot continued from page 1

Approximately $500 million will be Ranger Club, organizing the Park’s event “We simply generated annually from the trust schedule and volunteer newsletter, do not have enough fund, providing the funding needed answering park telephones and personnel to manage to restore, maintain and keep state providing interpretive talks to visitors. In parks accessible today and for future addition, they created a program called this huge park.” generations. If the initiative passes, “Adopt-A-Wash,” in which volunteers —ABDSP Superintendent Kathy Dice portions of the trust fund will be used sign up to monitor a specific area of to address the $1.3 billion maintenance the park. They visit frequently to pick backlog in parks throughout up trash, perform trail maintenance, the state. clean up illegal fire rings, and report maintenance concerns—allowing “Our goal has been to make our parks ABDSP Rangers to focus on other look good to the public for their use, responsibilities. Now more than ever, so that they still have a good expervolunteers perform a crucial role in ience,” said Roy Stearns, deputy comkeeping our state parks beautiful and munications director for California State running smoothly.

Parks. “Yet, behind the scenes, there are serious deferred maintenance projects, “Parks hold within them California’s the things they usually do not see.” heritage and priceless resources, which were set aside for preservation for good There is an abundance of such mainreason – and they deserve to have tenance concerns here in Anza-Borrego enough funding to keep them well Desert State Park: failing 40 – 50 year maintained,” said ABF Executive Director old sewage and water systems, a Conrad Kramer.

Kerry Hunsinger campground that cannot offer potable  This historic restroom near Borrego Palm water, shade ramadas that are falling We encourage you to support state Canyon has been closed since a 2004 flash flood. apart, a leaking Visitor Center roof in parks on November 2 by voting YES on need of repair…and the list goes on.

Prop.21, a stable, reliable and adequate source of funding for the state park system. Visit YesForStateParks.com to find The silver lining for the Park this year has been the tireless out more about the initiative and become a supporter. You efforts of the ABDSP volunteers, who stepped up to fill in can also stay updated by becoming a fan on Facebook (www. some of the gaps left by the state budget. You name the facebook.com/yesforstateparks).  job, they’ve done it: trailhead duty, helping with Junior

“Conservation Hero” Mark Jorgensen Awarded $10,000 Grant Mark Jorgensen, retired park superintendent and devoted ABF volunteer, was awarded first place in the adult category of the 2010 Cox Conserves Heroes Program, sponsored by Cox Communications and the Trust for Public Land. Mark will donate his prize, a $10,000 grant from Cox Communications, to Anza-Borrego Foundation.

The winners were announced at a ceremony hosted by Cox Communications and Hotel Solamar in downtown San Diego and recognized on the Petco Park field at the June 29th Padres game.

The first-place adult and youth winners also received proclamations from the San Diego County Board of Supervisors at their July 13th meeting.

ABF would like to thank Mark for his endless support and dedication. Also, thanks to Cox Communications and the Trust for Public Land for their generous grant.  www.theabf.org

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Two Long-Time Volunteers Will Be Missed Centenarian Served ABF, California State Parks

“I

grew up with the notion that there wasn’t anything I couldn’t do,” said Roma Philbrook Rentz. After fully living up to that motto, the sparkling-eyed petite woman who did so much for ABF and State Parks, passed away May 21, 2010 at the age of 100.

Roma was born December 6, 1909 and graduated in 1947 summa cum laude, obtaining a Hospital Administration and Business Management degree from Northwestern University in Chicago, IL. Rentz’s involvement with the park system began in 1949, when she became manager of Asilomar Conference Center, a nationally recognized facility located on the Monterey Peninsula. In her more than 28 years as manager, Roma worked on a $9 million master plan for the center that was funded solely through operating funds. On July 1, 1956 she facilitated the transfer of Asilomar to the California State Division of Parks and Beaches. During these years dedicated to Asilomar, Roma satisfied her gypsy spirit by taking six weeks every two years to see the world.

Roma’s association with ABF began when she met Josephine Read, chairwoman of the Anza-Borrego Committee of the Desert Protective

 Roma accepts the Chevron Conservation Award on behalf of Anza-Borrego Foundation on May 13, 1992

 Rentz with Diana Lindsay and Linda Tandle, received recognition as an Honorary Ranger in 1996.

Council, at a 50th anniversary celebration of the California State Park system. In 1978 she began her 19-year relationship as a volunteer for ABF, chairing several committees as well as holding the position of Vice President. Roma tirelessly served as the head of the Land Acquisitions Committee, which involved planning complex transactions to secure privately owned parcels located within the boundary of ABDSP, for ultimate inclusion into the California State Park system.

Throughout the years Roma received many personal accolades, among them the California Golden Bear Award, and in 1976 she was named Monterey Peninsula Woman of the Year. Roma also played a key role in ABF receiving the Chevron Conservation Award in 1992, for exceptional service in the cause of conservation.

During the California State Park Rangers Association annual banquet in 1996, Roma received recognition as an Honorary Ranger for her dedicated work at Asilomar and Anza-Borrego Foundation.

Through her volunteer activities on behalf of the park and other community organizations, Roma proved that she was right: there’s nothing she couldn’t do…except live forever. 

Park Volunteer Contributed Passionately for 40 Years

by Chuck Bennett, ABF Vice President

Anza-Borrego Foundation says good bye to Robert S. “Bob” Begole, who passed away on April 17, 2010.

Bob was a devout supporter of the Foundation’s efforts to acquire inholding lands within Anza-Borrego Desert State Park (ABDSP). He was one of the original members of the Anza-Borrego Committee, which became the Anza-Borrego Foundation (ABF) in 1976. Bob continued to serve on the ABF Acquisition Committee until his death.

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In addition to his involvement in land acquisition, Bob was a very active avocational archaeologist. He is credited with recording more than 3,000 archaeological sites in ABDSP over a period of 35 years–approximately 50 percent of all of the recorded sites in ABDSP. During this time he established the Borrego Archaeological Research Center which housed all of the archaeological records and artifacts for many years.

More recently in 2006, Bob was the major donor funding a new archaeological center and library, Begole Archaeological Research Center, located at Colorado Desert District

New Executive Director Joins ABF from Tetons

Headquarters. This Center provides a state-of-the-art curation facility for collections and archives, indoor and outdoor work areas, a library, and office space for staff, researchers and volunteers.

Bob’s generosity also established an endowment which  Bob Begole in 2006 with his Medallion Award provides a $10,000 for Superior Achievement and a photo of the Archaeological Research Center named in his annual grant to honor. fund archaeological research in the Colorado and Mojave Desert areas. These grants are available to all researchers in the field, both graduate students and professional archaeologists. The purpose of these grants is to enable researchers to expand and enrich the understanding of the cultural resources of these desert areas.

In 2006, Bob was awarded the Gold Medallion Award, California State Parks’ highest volunteer award, for his contributions to the archaeology of ABDSP. On March 19, 2010, the Society for California Archaeology awarded Bob the coveted Presidential Award when he attended the annual meeting in Riverside, California.

Those who knew Bob, and had the pleasure of working with him over the years, will miss him greatly. 

Anza-Borrego Foundation would like to officially welcome our new Executive Director, Conrad Kramer.

Conrad comes to Borrego Springs from Driggs, Idaho, west of Grand Teton National Park, where he served as Executive Director of the Teton Regional Land Trust. In this position he worked to conserve critical wildlife habitat, prime agricultural lands, and important open space in the Upper Snake River Watershed adjacent to the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.

He considers himself very fortunate to have been able to enjoy and work to protect these rugged wilderness landscapes and some of the most charismatic wildlife of North America.

NICHOLAS CLAPP

Conrad and his family migrated west to the Tetons from southwest Michigan and northern Indiana where he spent most of his career as a nonprofit executive director. Specializing in nonprofit turnarounds, he has developed significant skills in the areas of organizational transitions and fund development. Conrad’s expertise in nonprofit management and passion for conservation will be a perfect match for the mission and work of the Foundation.

For most of his career, Conrad has directed social service organizations. These have included an organization that served as court-appointed guardian and financial manager for seniors, an Area Agency on Aging, a private elementary school, and a large multipurpose senior center. Through all this Conrad kept his hand in conservation as well. As a volunteer, he founded and then led a nonprofit organization that reforested private lands in Northern Indiana. He also worked as a professional advocate for sustainable land use in various cities in northwest Indiana.

In 1985 Conrad earned a BS Degree in Public Affairs with a concentration in Environmental Policy and Public Administration from Indiana University. He has also pursued graduate studies in elementary education at Antioch New England Graduate School of Keene, N.H.

Conrad spent his early childhood in Latin America where his father served as a diplomat. There he developed his interest in helping vulnerable populations which eventually led him into social services. He spent his youth living in and exploring the forests and mountains of New Hampshire where he developed his deep connection to the land.

 ABF Vice President Chuck Bennett with Begole at the 2006 dedication ceremony for the research center.

We anticipate that Conrad, an avid hiker and backpacker, will feel at home in the heart of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, where he will not need to put away his hiking boots for much of the year. Conrad and his wife Lisa Gonzales-Kramer and their two sons, Erik and Leif, are looking forward to falling in love with Borrego Springs, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, and the larger southwestern region.  www.theabf.org

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Counting Sheep

by Briana Ross, ABF Communications Coordinator photos by Scot Martin

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hough it’s not what most would call a “good time,” I was intrigued by the idea of spending three days in the desert counting sheep. For three years, my better judgment had kept me away, but this year my curiosity won out and —along with 60 other desert-loving volunteers—I signed up to participate in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park’s Annual Bighorn Sheep Count.

“Are you crazy?” was the reaction from most of my friends and family. Maybe…

Count organizers Mark Jorgensen and Steve Bier warned of heat exhaustion, heat stroke and dehydration. Sitting comfortably in my air-conditioned office, I started to get a little nervous.

For 40 years Anza-Borrego Desert State Park has held its annual sheep count on the weekend closest to July 4. The Park purposefully chooses one of the hottest months of the year because bighorn sheep need to visit watering holes every few days during this dry time, making their whereabouts fairly predictable.

I was assigned to count at the 4th Grove of Borrego Palm Canyon, along with two partners, both veteran sheep counters. To avoid a scorching lateafternoon hike into our site, we decided to leave at 3:00 a.m. It was quiet and cool as we began our four-mile trek into one of the most frequently visited areas of the Park. The looming canyon walls were covered in moonlight, making it look like another planet.

As temperatures slowly began to rise with the sun, I focused on the gorgeous scenery around me, if only to keep my mind off the heavy pack on my back.

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backpackers, we actually passed six palm groves on our way up the canyon before arriving at “4th Grove.” So after close to four hours, we finally arrived at our “fourth” grove.

Each morning of the count, we carried supplies from our base camp to a ridge overlooking the canyon and set up a shade structure that provided some protection from the punishing heat. Using binoculars, we scanned the distant ridgelines and canyon slopes with increasingly aching arms, hoping to spot the elusive bighorn.

The sheep’s ability to blend into their surroundings was both astonishing and frustrating. Many of my excited calls of “sheep!” turned out to be, upon further investigation, only rocks.

However, when we eventually did spot a sheep, all memory of the previous hours of frustration and boredom disappeared. It was exhilarating to see a ram poke his head up from behind the ridge or spot a ewe on the move across a slope. Filled with excitement, we used spotting scopes to determine their sex, age and any identifying characteristics.

This rollercoaster of emotions is what filled our 10-hour days on the ridge.

I was relieved when a light breeze blew throughout our first day. Having feared sitting in motionless and stiflingly hot air, I was grateful for the wind. But by the next day, the breeze turned to gale force winds, nearly taking down our shade structure. The powerful gusts continued throughout the night, leading to a very restless night’s sleep.

Sheep counters who stay overnight at their sites, however, are treated to breathtaking sunsets, sunrises and continued on page 10

 We spotted multiple groups of sheep on our hike out of the canyon at the end of our adventure.

 A curious young sheep checks us out as we hike out of Borrego Palm Canyon.

DESERT CONNECTION

Fall 2010 Events

Anza-Borrego Institute 2010–2011 Fall & Winter Events  Full Moon Kayak on the Salton Sea. PAUL JOHNSON

Introduction to Night Sky Photography

Paleontology and Archaeology Labs Open House

October 16, 1 – 9 pm Dennis Mammana

October 30, 1 – 4 pm and October 31, 9 am – 12 pm

Learn the basics of using your camera to capture amazing celestial portraits of the desert night sky. With this combination of classroom and outdoor practice, you might create a winning image to enter in the new “The Desert at Night” Photo Contest category.

Students should bring a camera that can be adjusted manually and can take time exposures, a tripod, remote control or cable release, the camera’s user manual, a red flashlight, and have a good working knowledge of their equipment. This class is also offered January 15, 2011.

Celebrate Borrego Days with a behindthe-scenes walking tour of these working laboratories. Meet at the ABDSP Visitor Center. Suggested donation $5 Creatures of the Night November 6, 7 – 8 pm Ranger Steve Bier

Ranger Steve leads this night hike in search of the kinds of critters who come out when the sun goes down. Feel free to bring your own blacklight if you have one and we’ll see what creatures we can find after dark! (Level 1) Sign up in advance. Donations accepted The Garra Uprising:

$45 / $35 for ABF members

Picacho Overnight Adventure

RANGER Steve Bier

 Creatures of the Night.

October 16 –17

Cruise up the Colorado River from Yuma to the upper limits of Picacho State Recreation Area. Camp overnight and then paddle back down in a one- or two-person kayak, stopping at historical sites along the way. Bring your own camping gear and sense of adventure!

No kayaking experience needed. Meals and kayaks will be provided. Day-trip option also available. Call 760-767-4063 for details.

Full Moon Kayak on the Salton Sea

INSTITUTE

October 23, 6 – 8 pm Fredda Stephens

Enjoy a balmy evening on the water.

There’s nothing quite like a moonrise in the desert, and from the vantage point of a kayak, it just can’t be beat! This is a free trip but space is limited so please sign up in advance. Donations accepted

Activity Level Ratings Many of our programs involve walking or hiking in an extraordinary and dynamic wilderness. Our region can have unpredictable weather and can be hot, dry, windy and sometimes cold or rainy. The physical demands are as diverse as the topics we offer. Read the course descriptions and assess your fitness level to ensure that your abilities match those of your fellow participants.

LEVEL 1 – Slower pace through

relatively flat terrain LEVEL 2 – Steady pace through some

rocky or uneven terrain LEVEL 3 – Longer, rigorous hikes

through steep terrain, some rock

scrambling and elevation gain www.theabf.org

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Indians Make a Stand in San Diego County

Canyons of ABDSP–South

November 13, 7:30 pm George Harwood Phillips, PhD.

December 4, 8 am – 4:30 pm Paul Johnson

Learn about Antonio Garra and the band of Native Americans who dared to fight back (unsuccessfully) in 1852. Dr. Phillips is the author of Chiefs and Challengers: Indian Resistance and Cooperation in Southern California and other books exploring Native American history and will sign copies of his books after the lecture. Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center. Suggested donation $5

Explore several types of canyons and mud caves in Anza-Borrego’s remote south end. There will be 4 or 5 short walks (under ½ mile each) over rough terrain and in dark caves, so remember to bring a flashlight for each participant.

(Level 2) High clearance, 4WD required.

Macro Photography Class November 20, 8 am – 4 pm Paul Johnson

Learn to take more effective close-up shots from a pro!

While the class is designed for people with single-lens reflex cameras, the techniques can also be used with fixed-lens cameras with adjustable settings. $45 / $35 for ABF members

Second Annual Botany Festival

$45 / $35 for ABF members

Clark Lake Petroglyphs

December 5, 9 am – 12 pm Chuck Bennett

Join a member of the Colorado Desert Archaeology Society for this moderate 3-mile hike to early Cahuilla petroglyphs. (Level 2) 4WD recommended, high clearance required.

PAUL JOHNSON

November 26 & 27

Stop in at ABDSP Visitor Center to learn about our native desert plants, their characteristics and uses.

Proceeds from native plant sales will benefit the AnzaBorrego Desert State Park Botany Society.

Mud Caves and Slot

Cahuilla-Style Pottery Workshop November 13 and 20 with Tony Soares After learning pottery-making techniques from his grandmother, Tony has refined his skills over the years to yield beautiful ollas in many sizes. The first day of this two-day class is devoted to learning how clay is made, how paints are made and used to decorate pottery, and building your own pot.

A week later, you’ll return to paint your piece (if desired) before it is fired. You will also have time to make a supportive ring from palm fronds to stabilize your piece when on display.

Limit 10 people; sign up early.

$35 / $25 for ABF members

East of Algodones

December 11, 8 am – 4:30 pm Paul Johnson

Head off the beaten path to a portion of the Colorado Desert that lies east of the old Algodones Sand Dunes (a.k.a. Imperial Sand Franz Boschiero Dunes). We’ll view the dunes, see a working gold mine, and take short walks through multi-colored hills and a slot canyon. Hike will be moderate with some rock scrambling required. (Level 2) 4WD required. $45 / $35 for ABF members

Introduction to Desert Stargazing December 11, 1 – 9 pm Dennis Mammana

Sights that boggle the mind are visible in the clear, dark desert skies each evening. This full-day workshop is designed for beginning stargazers interested in exploring the enjoyable and mind-expanding hobby of amateur astronomy. Evening hours will provide an opportunity to practice navigating the night sky and to view some of its wonders through a large telescope. This class is also offered April 2, 2011. $45 / $35 for ABF members

$160 / $150 for ABF members

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PAUL JOHNSON

Mud Caves and Slot Canyons of ABDSP–North January 15, 8:30 am – 3:30 pm Paul Johnson

Hike to one of Anza-Borrego’s most impressive slot canyons, then experience a few of the classic mud caves of the Borrego Badlands. This trip involves a strenuous hike of about 3 miles. (Level 3) High clearance 4WD required. $45 / $35 for ABF members Faults and Figures

January 29, 8 am – 5 pm Paul Johnson

Reach out and touch the San Andreas Fault! It’s just one of the more dramatic features of the Colorado Desert we’ll visit on this all-day trip. The other is Corn Spring, and its magnificent petroglyphs. Lots of driving (200+ miles) but well worth it, for the sights we’ll see. (Level 2) 4WD or high clearance vehicles recommended. $45 / $35 for ABF members

For additional information, and to register online for programs, please visit www.theabf.org.

Certified Interpretive Guide Workshop January 24 – 28 with Roger Riolo The CIG is an internationally recognized professional certification through the National Association for Interpretation. This class is designed for anyone who delivers (or wants to deliver) interpretive programs to the public. At the conclusion of the 32-hour workshop, participants who complete the requirements are eligible for certification

by NAI. Optional activities include a closing banquet and four-wheel drive tour in the State Park.

Fee will range from $320 for current NAI members to $370 for non-members. Discounted lodging for workshop participants has been arranged with Palm Canyon Resort.

Desert Skies Outdoor Lecture Series Popular astronomer and syndicated columnist Dennis Mammana will enlighten and inspire us with the mysteries of the cosmos. Lectures are followed by telescope viewing, weather permitting. Dress warmly and bring blanket and flashlight with red lens or covering to the Nierenberg Plaza at ABDSP Visitor Center. Suggested donation $5 each session Giant Worlds of Gas October 30, 7 – 9 pm

Our season begins by gazing out across the solar system, toward the remarkable giant worlds of gas that orbit the sun—Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune.

The Stars Belong to Everyone October 16 and October 30 Join historian Charles Sprately as he tells the true stories of people whose untimely deaths along the Southern Immigrant Trail in AnzaBorrego led to the restless spirits that now roam the old stage line.

Evening or overnight programs available. ABF members receive

discounts.

November 27, 7 – 9 pm

People are fascinated by astronomy, yet many in today’s world are captivated not by the natural, but by the supernatural of this amazing science. In this light-hearted look at astronomy in our popular culture, you’ll discover how the stars really do belong to everyone.

Shadow on the Moon December 18, 7 – 9 pm

On the evening of December 21, Southern Californians will be treated to a spectacular total eclipse of the moon.

Learn how eclipses work, how they’ve influenced history, and how you can view and photograph this stirring celestial event like a pro.

2011: Year of Cosmic Wonder January 22, 7 – 9 pm

www.californiaoverland.com 760-767-1232

As we turn the page on the calendar, an exciting year of celestial events comes into view: eclipses, lunar and DENNIS MAMMANA planetary conjunctions, meteor showers and more.

Don’t miss this fun-filled preview of what promises to be a fascinating year of cosmic wonder.

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Save These Dates!

March 25 – 27 Vallecito Days Three days of re-enactments, demonstrations, and special events to commemorate life on the California frontier.

April 9 – 10 Archaeology Weekend This year we honor and remember “Mr. Archaeology” Robert Begole with a weekend full of lectures, field trips, and special activities.

• First Monday of every month • Meet at Christmas Circle, 8 am • New leader and destination every month • No charge

Three -Day Anza-Borrego Photography Workshop November 12 – 14 with Paul Johnson and Ernie Cowan Improve your skills through three days of intensive sessions with two professional photographers who have been viewing Anza-Borrego from behind the lens for many years.

Beginning with a classroom session on Friday, your instructors will help you learn how to make better use of your camera’s controls in order to take more effective photographs.

Field excursions on Saturday and Sunday offer hands-on opportunities to learn skills and techniques that will help you capture the natural beauty of Anza-Borrego, and KATI COWAN stretch your creativity into new areas.

Students are expected to have a single lens reflex camera with interchangeable lenses, and will be encouraged to edit and print their work for instructor feedback and group critique at a later time. $325 / $295 for ABF members

Eric Kallen

An advanced-level workshop, following roughly the same format, will be held March 11 – 13, 2011. Sign up for both weekends in advance and receive a $40 discount! Call 760-767-4063.

2011 Anza-Borrego Desert Photo Contest All photos must reflect the theme of the contest: The unique and natural beauty of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park® Contest Divisions: Adult Division: 14 and older Youth Division: 13 and younger Categories: 1. Desert plants 2. Desert animals 3. Desert landscapes/skyscapes/ natural features 4. People enjoying the desert 5. The Desert at Night – New!* *This category includes photos taken after dark, not including sunsets and sunrises.

Contest is open to amateur and professional photographers.

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Entry Fee: $5 per photo – maximum 5 photos per person Submissions: All entries must be received at ABF by January 31, 2011 Visit www.theabf.org/ photocontest for Contest Rules and Entry Forms Gallery Display: February 19 – March 5, 2011 Award-winning photos will be on display at Borrego Art Institute in Borrego Springs and on our website.

People’s Choice Award: vote for your favorite adult and youth photos throughout the two weeks of February 19 – March 5, 2011.

Awards: Best of Show in each division First, Second, and Third Place Winners in each category and division Up to 10 Honorable Mention awards in each category and division People’s Choice Award for each division Awards Ceremony and Reception: March 5, 2011 Morning Light Photo Safari with Paul Johnson: March 6, 2011 JIM DENSMORE , 2010 Desert Plants, Second Place Winner

Putting Desert Rays to Good Use

By Jason Duke, Maintenance Chief III, Colorado Desert District

The Park is now taking full advantage of one of the most abundant resources here in the Anza-Borrego Desert – our sunshine. The Begole Archaeological Research Center’s recent addition of more than 92 solar panels will help Colorado Desert District Headquarters move toward total energy independence.

Over the past year, District Headquarters saw a 30% reduction in its expenditures for power after the initial installment of 40 photovoltaic

panels. 52 more panels have been added and the district office can now look forward to a zero balance, and perhaps even a return on their energy bill. The reduction in energy costs will allow the District to contribute these savings to more panels and continuing upgrades to existing systems.

The latest solar project was funded entirely with salary savings and rebate money from the past solar installations at the archaeology building and AnzaBorrego Desert State Park Visitor

Center’s bathroom, which was funded by a grant from American Express.

As part of the Director’s “Cool Parks” initiative, the district is taking actions to reduce its carbon footprint and achieve measurable outcomes. There are so many applications for this type of energy conservation in the desert – I can only hope that funds will be available to install more systems throughout the Colorado Desert District. 

Hold the Mustard! – Sahara Mustard Task Force Those of us who visited the Park this year were appalled at the devastating effect non-native Sahara Mustard has had throughout the Borrego Valley. This invasive weed is crowding out our native wildflowers and depriving them of the sun and water they need to survive. In response to this concern, a Sahara Mustard Task Force has been formed that includes representatives from throughout the community.

The Task Force is working on an education and eradication plan that will be implemented community-wide and involve as many trained volunteers as possible. And that’s where you come in! When winter and spring rains hit, we’ll be calling on volunteers – like you! – to help attack the wave of fastgrowing mustard that is sure to follow.

All volunteers will be required to attend a training session

Sahara Mustard

Brassica Toumefortii

where they’ll learn how to distinguish Sahara Mustard from other similar-looking plants, the best methods for pulling, and how to dispose of the plants properly. Dates of ELEANOR SHIMEALL volunteer work days  Jennifer Hoggan, of Templeton, Anna and trainings will be Covici and Bill Propp of La Jolla, and dependent on weather Abigail Fuesler of Templeton help in the conditions. We will send efforts to rid the valley of Sahara Mustard. out emails and post information on our website as they are scheduled.

ABF is excited to be a part of this community-wide collaboration. The eradication of Sahara Mustard will be a multi-year project and is not something that any group can handle alone. We hope that you’ll consider joining us in this crucial effort to save the amazing wildflowers in ABDSP and the Borrego Valley.

To receive information about the project, please join our email list using the link on our homepage or visit www. theabf.org/mustard to find the most up-to-date information.

If you are part of an organization that would like to assist with the Sahara Mustard eradication efforts, visit our website to find out how your group can get involved and help spread the word. For more information, contact Briana Ross, Communications Coordinator at briana@theabf.org.  www.theabf.org

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2010 Anza-Borrego Desert Photo Contest Winners Desert wildlife stole the show in last winter’s AnzaBorrego Desert Photo Contest. In the adult category, two captivating photographs of insects stole our hearts, winning the Best of Show and People’s Choice Awards. Here is a selection of 2010’s winners. 

 Denise Zuranski: Adult Best of Show, First Place Macro Photography



Jon Matson: Adult People’s Choice

 Jim Kurtenbach: First Place Desert Animals



Leo Larson: First Place People Enjoying the Desert

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Fall 2010

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 Debbie Myers: Third Place Desert Animals

 Judy Kramer: First Place Desert Plants  Jenson Shoaf: YOUTH First Place Desert Plants 

Judy Kramer: Second Place Desert Animals

 Camryn Shoaf: YOUTH Second Place Desert Plants

 Luke Scribner: YOUTH Third Place Desert Plants 

James Clark: First Place Desert Landscapes

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Counting Sheep continued from page 6

peaceful evenings after counting is done. After a grueling day in the heat, it was an amazing treat to relax in the shade of palm trees next to the creek. I had no idea the desert could be so lovely in the middle of the summer.

When all was said and done, our site recorded 8 of the total 255 sheep counted. The numbers were down from last year’s total of 354, but park officials are not concerned by the drop, saying the daily temperature highs of 110, 103 and 102 degrees were “too cool” to ensure that sheep would need to come down for a drink.

By the end of the 3-day adventure, I figured that I’d be racing my co-counters out of the canyon. But on that last day, to my surprise, I dreaded the return to civilization. I had relished my slow, simple and somewhat sweaty days in the canyon, observing the unhurried world of the bighorn sheep. I left the canyon feeling satisfied with the knowledge that my efforts will help to keep our endangered bighorn sheep population healthy. So, when it comes time for the annual bighorn sheep count next year, count me in. 

New Members – January 16 – May 31, 2010

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Lynn and Jeanette Abernathy George Agar M. Geoff Agard Mr. and Mrs. Mahesh Aia John Albers-Mead Guy Cecil Alexander III Kris Alexander and Armalyn Delad Mary Allardt Barbara Anne Allen Joseph and Susan Allen Dr. Amada I. Almase Noah Alper Brent & Bryce Anderson & Shirley Johnston Les and Mary Anderson Lisa Anderson Rick and Leslie Anderson Kristin Andrewson Rick Applegate and Bess Wong Jonathan Archer Barbara Arnold Saskia Arthur Mary Ashby Ross and Arlyn Avery Mark Bachman Mary Bacon Delano Ball Larry Banks Robert Baran Don Barden Sue Barrera Carol Barrett Ms. Marie Barrett Donald S. Barrie Bob Battagin and Deborah Fitzpatrick Jim and Donna Baynes Polly Bee Sandra Benthusen Madonna Bentz Bill and Vicki Benzel Sandra and Chuck Berry Dave Bezaire Anita Biedermann William Blanchard

Warren R. Boatwright Jr. Chris Boeve and Carol Jud Mark Bohn Chris Bowen Dan Bowes Martin Boyd Mr. Glenn Bozarth Paul Brandon Gilda Brasch Lyle and Laura Brecht Nathan Brigger Gwen Brodsky Tanya Brookhart Valerie Brown E.J. Broz Ms. Kathy Bryson Genevieve Bukowski Dan Burger Don and Sheila Cameron Al Castillo Robert Cavanaugh Kathleen Cejka Kitty Chapman Lee Chauser James Clark Nannette Clark Paul and Rita Clavic Karen and Jerry Clegg Sandy Coffman Victor Cohn Stephen Collins Ray Coohran Patty and Wally Cook Paula Cordeiro John and Colleen Cosgrove Doris Costello Dimitri Courmousi Greg and Cheryl Cox Leroy and Vicki Cramer Page and Virginia Cranford Kim Cresencia Alan Creutz Nick Criss Marian Cropp Derek Cruickshank Felipe Cuevas Cristi Cunningham Katherine Curtis

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Paul Curtis Janice Darche Elsie and Denise Daringer Edith and Walter Davie Richard Davis John De Bert Karen Delano Russell and Sara DiFiori Timothy Do Les and Barbara Doak Nancy Dobbs Dan Dorritie Faye and Jim Dorsey Frank and Sharon Dunbar Scott Dunbar Verne Duncan Wayne Dunsmuir Alain Durand Terry Dwyer Esther Edber Betty J. Eden Debra and Dennis Ehrlich Herb and Judy Eisenberg Gary and Marguerite Elfman Bob Emerson Diane Enebak Min Enghauser Ed and Beth English Lois P. and Joseph Erbs Merki Esther and Richard Elam Michael and Vanessa Evans Mary M. Evert George and Sue Ezekiel Frizzell Family Eric Fassbaugh Fred Fernandez Rosemary Fey Christine Firth Sandra Fisher Karl Fitzke Linda Foote Heather Frank Doug Freeling Ann Fritzges

Katherine Gallagher Norm Gallagher Verne Garcia P.J. Gasper Robert Gauldin Bert Gildart James Ginn Frances Glusier Monica P. Gomez Ben Gonzales Eloise Gore and Allen Hile Mary A. Goree Richard Gray and Joan Kirk Sandra Gray Carolyn Greene Elizabeth Griffin Andrew Grzeszczak Lenka Guerra Lloyd E. Guy Gerri Haan Pete and Elizabeth Halboth Carol Hammond Barry and Diana Hansen Karin Hanson Sandi Harder Kate Harper Jane Harper-Davis Sally Harris Cynthia Hart and Donald Cargille Mary Ellen Harte Nancy Hengerer Linda Herd Pat Hess Gisela D. Hewitt Melanie Hoffman Peter Hofinga Jeffrey and Linda Holmes Morgan Holtz Fred Hornbeck and Jeanne Townsend Steve Hotchkiss Ed and Gwen Houston Pat and Lisa Howes Gary Hunter Tristan Ikuta Peter Ilott Georgia Ireland

Myra Iserman and Larry Zorza Dorothy-Clare Jacobs Alan and Nora Jaffe T B Jamison Pam Blake and Dan Jellis Rodney Jenks Susan Jett John and Mary Johnson Raymond Johnson Linda Jones Bill and Janet Kaemmerling Edward Kalenda George and Traudy Kamp Powell C. Kelly Jeff and Linda Kemmer Samuel Kempton Karen Kight and Sue Patterson Carl Kinczel Steven King Barbara and Gordon Kitchens Wayne and Susan Kline David Knapp Janice and David Koza Gerald Krater Mary Krook Paul Kryloff Hung D. Lam John Lamb and Dave Perry-Miller Stefanie Lange Chris Langenfeld Dean Lattman Robert and Lynne Lau Tim Lauridsen Ken and Charlotte Lawson Dan and Steff Leidecker Larry Lesh Kristina Lippke Duncan Lively Justin Liversidge Jim Lockyer Lisa Long

Jack and Carole Lovell V. Loverde Elmer Lueker Su Yang Lui Andre Maloney Betty E. Marrioti Bud and Tina Marsh Carl and Geri Martin Joanne Martin Irene Martinez John Martinez Ed and Cheryl Mattas Steve Matthews John and Cheryl McGinnis Tracy McGree Gerry and Sally McKenna Ron and Susan Mead Mark Mellis Stephanie Merten Teresa Mesquit Roberta Meyer Olivier Milhomme Carl Miller Devin Milner Angela Moll and Thornsten Von Eichen Gloria Moore Mike Mooring Nancy and Joe Morrison-Schmidt Steve and Linda Mucha Patti Murchison Debbie Myers Linda Napravnik Curtis Nelson and Annette Seppanen Randy Newcomb David Newcomer Nhi Ngo Gayle and Tom O’Key Juan Carlos Obando Paul Oeth Val Olin Conrad Olson Ann and Karen Orloff Jack and Kathleen Osborn Parviz Ostovari continued on page 11

New Members – January 16 – May 31, 2010 continued from page 10 Mike Otto David Owens and Ruth Mohr Hans Paar Carol Palley Kevin and Susan Palmtag Charles Parham William G. Parker Carla and Gary Parmeter Dan Parnell Irene Partridge Diane Pataki Jennifer Pate Perez Family Nancy and Bill Pickett Richard Pilgrim Michael Pique Donald and Jane Pope Sandra Post Jay Powers John Prewitt Ellen Quigley Mike Quine Patricia Raetz

Barbara Rajanok Maria Carmen Ramirez Jill Ranhormozi Ann Ream Rishi Reddi Ranja Reddy Robert Renfer Andrew Reynoso Marlen Richardson Tim and Ann Rickel Darla Rigard Lynn Robertson Robert and Rochelle Ronketty Marilyn and Mitchel Ross Veda Roubideaux Elizabeth Roulac Mary Ruppert Danie Saaiman Steve and Eileen Sampson John P. Schafer Marie Schelling and Dennis King Timothy Schenck

Eric and Kristina Schmid K. Schoof Dr. Juergen D. Schrenk Wayne and Margot Schweifler Joe Scorneianchi Brad and Patti Scott Candra Scott Jean Scott Andrea Sereno and Tom Novotny Jeanne and Henry Shenkman Sally and Brian Shepherd Darcie Shoaf Dale Showman Mrs. S. Raymond Silliman Pat and Trudy Simpson Carol Smith Dr. Eric T. Smith Nancy Smith Mr. Scott Smith

Tom Smith Victoria Smith Ms. Gail Soha Stanley Sollie Will Spell Dr. Yuriho H. Spiess B. Steer John and Linda Stevens Daniel Stevenson Ron and Elly Stickney Terry and Martha Stillwell Robert Stinson Michael and Lida Strong Robert Stuart Deb Sweeney Malana Tabak Yin Tang Jorge Tangonan Richard Tanner Bob Tauber Mert Taylor Chris Testa and Nancy Lucchese

J. Thal Patricia Thompson Denise Thornburg Sandra Thorpe Mark Tucker Perin Vakharia Brian Van de Wetering Varney Trust Shirley Vulpe Kim, Susan Wallace and family Abigayle Walls Chris and Irene Ward Matthew Ward and Susan Prince Eugene R. Webb Jerry and Susan Weil Mo Weimer and Jim Ingeversen Warren and Vivian Welling Stanley Wells Rick and Sandi Werther Sharon L. Westerfield

Stan and Anne Westfall David Whitaker Ron and Charlotte White Leslie Whitmore Jim Whitmoyer John Wilkins Belva Wilkinson Nancy Williams Joan Givler Wilson Marlise Wise Ted Wolken Rita Wood Colleen Woodhouse David Wooley Fiona Wright Tom and Barbara Wright Frank A. Yancey Jr. Bob Zimmer Ken Zimmermann and Hilda Paslay

Donations – January 16 – May 31, 2010 5th Grade Camp Program Desert Protective Council The Pratt Memorial Fund at Union Bank of California Bird Fund Grace A. Clark Jim and Kathy Dice Susan McLaughlin Lynn and Harry Rhodes Herb Stone Camp Borrego Facility ABATEPAC Marty Allenby Eric and Mary Anderson Association of California State Supervisors, Inc. Barona Band of Mission Indians California Dental Association California Water Political Action Committee Christ Church of San Diego Community Health Group Greg and Cheryl Cox John Debeck The Honorable Peter Deddeh Jim and Kathy Dice

Catherine Driscoll August and Ann Felando Patricia Fishtein Janet and George Gastril Dr. Sharon Goldsmith Rick, Tory and Luke Gulley Peter Halmay and Mary Klein Ironworkers Union Local 229 Mark and Kelley Jorgensen James Justus Kien Ngoc Lieu Diana and Lowell Lindsay Cindy Miles Crosby and Mary Milne Ken Msemaji Rudy Murillo Yen T. Nguyen and Bui T. Quang Noble Family Trust Peace Officers Research Association of California PAC Sandra Perez and Juan Gallegos John Peterson and Jennifer Gwynne Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 230 Political Action CA Court Reporters Assn PAC

Dana Quittner Marcus and Connie Marie Romero Signature Properties Inc Fern Steiner J. Marie Tuthill David and Teresa Valladolio M. Howard Wayne Wintec Energy LTD Pat Zaharopoulos Anza-Borrego Institute Calumet Photographic Inc. Rupert Essinger and Christen Powell Essinger Oceanside Photo & Telescope Danielle Putnam Red Hat Society Phil Roullard and Callie Mack Walter and Nancy Tyler General Operating 41 Pounds.org– Greenwave Strategies Adventure Cycling Association Don Albright Stephanie Alexander Marty Allenby Alton and Jeanette Baker Leslie Bellah (in memory of Margarite Ellen Grazdan)

Leslie Bellah (in memory of Wayne Lukina) Mark and Cynthia Bender Charles and Mary Bennett (in memory of Robert S. Begole) Alex and Nancy Boss (in memory of Adam Smalley) Alex and Nancy Boss (in memory of Wayne Lukina) Frank and Elizabeth Bret Brice & Associates Jackie and Gene Caffee Richard Caputo and Carol Jacklin Lee and Nell Cliff Frank and Barbara Coates Prescott and Wilma Cogswell Timothy Cohelan Jonathan Cole Clifford and Carolyn Colwell Bill and Virginia Cooperrider Oma Cremin Pedro and Carol Cuatrecasas Joelyn Curtis George Davies and Audrey Warren

Janie DeCelles Martha Deichler Patti Del Guercio Elaine Diner Manfred and Elisabeth Dittmann Faye and Jim Dorsey Dozier-Crooke Family Lei Ellen Duff Earth Share of California Lois P. and Joseph Erbs Loretta Evans J.B. and Arlyn Farrell Christine Firth Reginald Foakes Debra Fregoso William and Janet Garber Fleetwood and Anna Garner Dr. Robert and Patricia Gerdsen Howard Graves Rick, Tory and Luke Gulley Wesley and Ida Hackett Allan and Beverly Hansberger Lori Hargrove Walter K. Harrison Janet Hauser Ivan and Leilani Holmes Victoria and David James Elizabeth A. Javens

Rodrigo Urena and Lone H. Jensen Russell and Lorraine Johnson Robert Jones David Kaplan and Kasey Cinciarelli Larry and Karen Killmar Bruce and Pat Klier (in honor of Edna “Eddie” Young) Kevin and Kathy Knowles Karl Kovach Les and Sue LaFountain Mr. and Mrs. Lucas Leard Mann Diana and Lowell Lindsay (in memory of Adam Smalley) Diana and Lowell Lindsay (in memory of Stanley Wortmann) Diana and Lowell Lindsay (in memory of Wayne Lukina) Eric and Suellen Lodge Henry Louria Jr. Cary and Coralea Lowe

continued on page 12 www.theabf.org

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ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

Non Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 17 San Diego, CA

Anza-Borrego Foundation P.O. Box 2001 Borrego Springs, CA 92004 (760) 767-0446 www.theabf.org

Donations – January 16 – May 31, 2010 continued from page 11

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Delores and Wally Lukina (in memory of Adam Smalley) Delores and Wally Lukina (in memory of Margarite Ellen Grazdan) Delores and Wally Lukina (in memory of Robert S. Begole) Bucky and Colleen Maurin Janet H. McLaughlin Martha McPhail Ron and Susan Mead Theresa and Dean Mike John and Nancy Mommsen James B. Monical Marc Moniz Dr. Robert and Anne Morrison James Murray Cynthia Nelson Jack and Arlene Oakes Gerry and June O’Connor (in memory of Wayne Lukina)

Paul Oeth Newell Partch Jan Payne Palmer & Priscilla Pickering Hughes Michael and Meili Pinto John and Ruth Porter Richard Potratz Ruth and Bill Poulton Norm and Jean Provan Z Razak and Elizabeth Bicknese Susan Richardson Joan and Martin Rosen (in honor of Diana Lindsay) Alison Ross Esther and Gerald Rubin Loraine Salerno Paul E. Scharnau Sam and Linda Schreck Marjorie Seybold Edwina Shell-Johnson Larry and Marti Showley Ralph Singer and Lou Bahar Sam Slimak Lynn A. Stadelman

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William Staggs Greg and Cheryl Stengel Judy Stewart and Bill Fink Herb Stone (in memory of Fran Henderson Schonefeld) Herb Stone Jacalyn Strom Linda Tandle (in memory of Wayne Lukina) Barbara and Daniel Tartre Larry Thomas Elena and John Thompson (in memory of Susan Butler) George and Nancy Varga David Walstad Albert Walter Dick and Joan Wayman Sam and Astrid Webb (in memory of Robert S. Begole) Paul J. Weber D.V.M.

Ron and Charlotte White (in memory of Edna “Eddie” Young) Chiara Nappi and Edward Witten Wollman Family Foundation Kenneth Wright and Carol Schloo-Wright Tom and Barbara Wright Carole and Mike Ziegler Land Acquisition Paulette Ache and Bill Holst (in memory of Fran Henderson Schonefeld) James Carl and Deanne Holy Carl Steve Carnahan Joseph and Adrienne Casco Bruce Clegg J. Michael Deasy Marilyn Dickson Jeanette Dutton John Evarts and Marjorie Popper

Michael and Susan Finnane (in memory of John Palermo) John and Dorothy Helm Rose Hingeley V. Starr Hutchison David S. Johnson Robert P. McComas (in memory of Frank T. Pierce, Jr.) Pamela and Gregory Nelson Marvie and John Norris Danielle Putnam Jeffrey and Robin Safford George Sardina M.D. Gail Sevrens and Scott King (in memory of Wayne Lukina) Joanie and Dave Shannon Kate Shapiro

Mr. and Mrs. Haruo Tayama Albert Walter Arthur S. Warner Ralph and Rosalie Webb Paleontology Fund San Diego Natural History Museum Docents Dr. Robert and Patricia Gerdsen Parks Forever Brian and Mary Gross Dr. Arie Korporaal R. Michael West (in memory of Richard A. West) PORTS Gail Sevrens and Scott King (in memory of Margarite Ellen Grazdan)