GRIT Newsletter: August 2023

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Elena Gallegos Open Space in Sandia Heights is saved from development, thanks to a permanent injunction agreed upon by the City, protecting the area from further construction and preserving its wilderness. Sandia Heights residents score a victory in the legal battle, with recognition for the efforts of the "Save the Elena Gallegos" group and contributions from residents towards legal fees. The newsletter also seeks a new editor for GRIT, highlighting the retirement of the current editor, Susan McCasland, before the next annual meeting in February.

A call to action is issued to address visible trash cans in Sandia Heights, as per community covenants, with a story shared about correcting this violation by creating decorative gates. The Forest Service is taking comments on replacing a power line in Sandia Heights, prompting questions from residents about the project's impact on the environment and facilities. The newsletter also features profiles of local artists like Barb Nahler and Carol Erickson, showcasing their creative journeys and contributions to the arts community. Keywords: Elena Gallegos Open Space, Save the Elena Gallegos, GRIT Editor, trash cans, Forest Service, power line replacement, local artists, Barb Nahler, Carol Erickson.

The newsletter delves into the geology of the Rincon area, contrasting it with the well-known Sandia Mountains and Sandia Granite. It discusses how the Rincon Ridge and Hills feature metamorphic rocks, much older than the Sandia Granite, formed over 1.6 billion years ago. The article explores the geological history of the Rincon metamorphic rocks, including the prevalent schists and gneisses, attributing their formation to Plate Tectonics along a convergent plate boundary. It further reveals that the metamorphic rocks in the Rincon are a part of the Mazatzal province, showcasing a province-wide metamorphism event caused by tectonic collisions and subductions.

Additionally, the newsletter covers the issue of pet-related nuisances in Sandia Heights, outlining Bernalillo County Code and New Mexico State Statutes related to dogs causing disturbances like excessive barking or defecation. It emphasizes the severity of dog biting incidents and provides detailed laws regarding dangerous or vicious animals, including reporting requirements and potential consequences for owners. The document serves as a reminder to be a responsible pet owner in the community, highlighting the importance of leashing dogs, maintaining cleanliness, and following regulations to ensure safety and peace among residents.

Two whole-group dinners are announced for all adult Sandia Heights residents, organized throughout the year, with details to inquire or join provided. Additionally, the Sandia Heights Art Tour is approaching its twentieth anniversary on September 9 & 10, featuring fifty artists showcasing various media including jewelry, abstract art, fused glass, painting, watercolor, and more. A preview night on September 7 is also mentioned, giving attendees an early look at all the artists' work. As a reminder, the start of the school year on August 3 is noted, advising extra caution for school buses and children in the area.

Keywords: Sandia Granite, dangerous animals, Bernalillo County Code, Sandia Heights Art Tour, school start, Rincon, Mazatzal province, Sandia Heights community events., Sandia Mountains, kiddos., pet ordinances, geology, metamorphic rocks, artists lineup, dog biting incidents, school buses, Plate Tectonics, Whole-group dinners, preview night, cork and fork dining