GRIT Newsletter: January 1996

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The Sandia Heights Homeowners Association's Winter 1996 newsletter covers various important topics. The President's Message highlights potential revisions to the By-laws, emphasizing one major change requiring ratification at the Annual General Meeting. Plans for development on vacant land and a successful recycling program are also discussed. Concerns are raised about a Circle K liquor license proposal, architectural review compliance, and a Traffic Safety Forum addressing speeding and speed limit issues with the installation of speed humps. Updates on funding for community projects, resolution of roadway connections, and a collaboration with other neighborhood associations are included. The newsletter also calls for feedback on contractor evaluations and mentions the search for a new Community Events Committee chair.

The newsletter discusses the importance of preserving the natural habitat for Greater Roadrunners in Sandia Heights. It highlights the diet, behavior, and significance of these native birds, emphasizing the need to protect their existence as urban areas expand and habitats shrink. Readers are educated on the misconceptions surrounding roadrunners and are urged to appreciate and coexist with these beneficial birds to maintain a balanced ecosystem. Additionally, the document touches on the architectural review process within the community, stating that all exterior modifications must be approved by the Architectural Review Committee to uphold the unique character and quality of Sandia Heights. Residents are reminded to adhere to the covenants and seek approval before commencing any construction or alterations to their properties.

The newsletter from Winter 1996 includes a feature on bobcats, describing their diet, hunting techniques, and population in New Mexico. It also discusses the ongoing Sandia Pueblo's land claim and the involvement of the Sandia Mountain Coalition in legal proceedings, including issues related to Indian gambling. Additionally, it mentions the interest of various parties, including Sandia Pueblo and federal agencies, in acquiring a 160-acre property known as the Caulkins Estate, with negotiations ongoing for its development or addition to the Sandia Mountain Wilderness Area.

Bobcats, Sandia Pueblo, Sandia Mountain Coalition, Indian gambling, Caulkins Estate, Sandia Mountain Wilderness Area.

The newsletter from the Ranger's Station discusses budget limitations that resulted in the closure of some sites during winter but ensured operation of key locations like the Ski Area and Tram. There is a call for forming a non-profit organization to support volunteer programs and educational initiatives on the Mountain, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and collaboration. Various community groups are seeking input on shaping the future vision of Albuquerque and surrounding areas, focusing on preserving the natural beauty and educational opportunities provided by the Sandia District, reflecting a growing spirit of unity and engagement. Keywords: District Ranger update, non-profit organization, community involvement, educational programs, future vision, volunteer support, Albuquerque community, Sandia District, natural beauty, collaboration.

The second part of the newsletter features an article by a Sandia Heights Resident and SHHA member celebrating the return of Desert Bighorns to the Sandias through volunteer efforts. It highlights the New Mexico Volunteers for the Outdoors (NMVFO) organization and their work maintaining trails and environmental projects across public lands. The piece touches on significant initiatives like the reintroduction of Desert Bighorns and emphasizes the importance of community involvement in conservation efforts. There is also a discussion about exploring the possibility of creating a Sandia Heights presence on the Internet to enhance communication and engagement within the neighborhood, drawing inspiration from other associations utilizing web pages for community connections. Keywords: Desert Bighorns, NMVFO, conservation efforts, community involvement, volunteer projects, environmental initiatives, Internet presence, neighborhood communication, community engagement, web pages.

The newsletter covers diverse topics, including pet behavior counseling to prevent pet deaths in shelters, chocolate facts and health implications, updates on local construction projects like Desert Sky community and The Pinnacle apartments, details about a wildlife-rich residential area called 1llium, and information on controversial sculptures in High Desert created by Ali Baudoin. Additionally, it mentions community events like volunteer opportunities with HawkWatch International and a bridge play group advertised in the classifieds. Keywords: pet behavior, animal shelters, chocolate, Desert Sky, The Pinnacle apartments, 1llium, Ali Baudoin sculptures, HawkWatch International, bridge play group.

A home overlooking the ski area is available for rental, accommodating 6-10 people with summer rates at $100/night and winter rates at $175/night. Additionally, a 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom house is for sale by the owner, featuring new paint, stucco, flooring, lighting, and appliances, with a spacious living room and patio dining area offering beautiful courtyard views on a 1/4 acre lot, including a large RV storage and double garage for $185,000. The Stitohery & Crafts Women's Group invites participants to join regular meetings, with more information available by contacting Lucy Russel.

Circle K shares community accomplishments like a recycling program and sponsoring the annual Spring Fling Picnic, with upcoming improvements including a cardboard recycling bin and credit card readers at gas pumps for 24-hour convenience and ease of purchase without leaving the vehicle. The store manager, Terry Sanchez, is dedicated to community involvement, organizing festive events like Halloween costume days and Christmas visits with Santa Claus. Circle K requests support for obtaining a liquor license with outlined conditions, aiming to offer a fine wine selection for customer convenience while ensuring responsible business practices. Keywords: ski area, rental, house for sale, Stitohery & Crafts Women's Group, Circle K, community involvement, liquor license, wine selection.

Keywords: vacant land development, exterior modifications, speed humps, urban expansion, misconceptions, habitat preservation, architectural review, Sandia Heights, recycling program, architectural review compliance, Greater Roadrunners, roadway connections, Community Events Committee., By-laws revisions, native birds, contractor evaluations, Traffic Safety Forum, community spirit, ecosystem balance., covenants, Circle K proposal, funding for community projects