GRIT Newsletter: June 1997

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The Sandia Heights Homeowners Association recently held its Annual General Meeting where Sheriff Joe Bowdich discussed security concerns due to short-staffing and upcoming pay raise negotiations for deputies. Other topics included the South Domingo Baca Regional Plan, construction updates on a new service station and water tank, and the development of a community park named Little Cloud Park. The newsletter also introduced new board members, each bringing unique backgrounds and experiences to address various neighborhood issues.

In the past months, the Board of Directors has been involved in discussions regarding multiple ongoing issues such as the construction of a Kicks 66 gas station, potential county improvements in open spaces and parks, and the development of a water tank. The newsletter emphasized the importance of community involvement in these matters and invited all residents to attend the monthly Board meetings to stay informed. Keywords: Annual General Meeting, security issues, South Domingo Baca, new board members, Kicks 66 gas station, community park, county improvements, water tank, Board of Directors, community involvement.

The Sandia Heights Homeowners Association's summer 1997 newsletter covers a range of topics. One article addresses the Architectural Control Committee's role in reviewing and approving exterior alterations and landscaping projects in the community, emphasizing the importance of compliance with covenants and the submission of thorough plans for any changes to residences. The newsletter also discusses the involvement of neighbors in project reviews and the monitoring of construction to ensure adherence to approved plans. Additionally, there is a piece on the Communications Committee's work with The Grit newspaper, highlighting the need for community engagement in contributing news, articles, and photos to the publication.

The newsletter includes information about upcoming events such as the Crafts Bazaar, Winetasting evening, and a potential Spring picnic for Sandia Heights residents. It also covers updates on community concerns, such as issues related to a proposed gas station sign variance, lighting ordinance, liquid waste ordinance, and the Ice Arena expansion. Additionally, there is a section on personal safety tips from the Security Department, some activities happening at the Open Space Elena Gallegos Double Shelter, and details from the Covenant Support Committee regarding SHHA covenants. Unique keywords: Crafts Bazaar, Winetasting evening, Spring picnic, gas station sign variance, lighting ordinance, liquid waste ordinance, Ice Arena expansion, personal safety tips, Open Space activities, SHHA covenants.

The SHHA newsletter also features announcements about SHHA Coffees, a new development committee update, and Covenant Support Committee efforts to digitize and make available all SHHA covenants online. It includes details about a proposed crime comparison analysis, security calls statistics, and various free talks and hikes at the Open Space Elena Gallegos Double Shelter. Moreover, there are advertisements for services like house and pet sitting, home remodeling, and real estate, as well as a section from the GRIT focusing on back-to-school organization. Unique keywords: SHHA Coffees, new development committee, Covenant Support Committee, crime comparison analysis, security calls statistics, Open Space talks and hikes, house and pet sitting, home remodeling, real estate, GRIT newsletter.

A couple from Wilmette, Illinois, Chuck and Norma Young, found a new life in Sandia Heights after deciding to escape the hectic lifestyle they were accustomed to. Chuck's background in advertising and love for concepts merged perfectly in their new business venture, Ameritest, focusing on understanding consumer behavior through innovative methods. Norma, a former nun and registered nurse, manages the business while also embracing her love for horticulture. Together, they have created a unique and vibrant home environment, welcoming international exchange students and fostering a sense of global community.

The Sandia Heights community newsletter also covers the controversy surrounding Albuquerque's tree ban ordinance, detailing the prohibited tree species and the rationale behind the decision. The ban, effective from August 1st, targets high pollen-producing trees to address health concerns, sparking debates on the necessity and consequences of such restrictive measures. Additionally, the newsletter explores the Baha'i Faith, highlighting core beliefs such as the unity of humanity, equality of men and women, and the importance of education, encouraging readers to learn more about this perspective. Keywords: Chuck and Norma Young, Ameritest, Sandia Heights, tree ban ordinance, high pollen-producing trees, Baha'i Faith.

An ordinance detailing the prohibition of certain tree species in Albuquerque to mitigate pollen-related health risks has sparked controversy. The ban targets specific tree families with high pollen allergen potential, aiming to reduce health problems for residents vulnerable to allergies. However, concerns have been raised about the long-standing presence of these trees in the city and the impact of eliminating them on the ecosystem and the city's landscape diversity. Suggestions include focusing on educating developers and the public on proper tree selection, water requirements, and planting a variety of tree species instead of imposing an outright ban.

In another section, plans for the South Domingo Baca Dam recreational area in Bernalillo County are detailed, reflecting community input and priorities for the development of the area. The proposal includes amenities such as a horse arena, trails, sports fields, and recreational facilities aiming to cater to various age groups and interests. There is a focus on addressing issues like public access, parking, and coordination with different departments to ensure successful and inclusive recreational development. Keywords: tree ordinance, pollen allergies, Albuquerque landscape, ecosystem diversity, South Domingo Baca Dam, Bernalillo County, recreational plans, community input, amenities, public access.

The newsletter highlights the dedication of Mr. John Southwick to the volunteer program supporting the Sandia Ranger District, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in maintaining forest health and recreational enhancements in the Sandia and Manzanita Mountains. It discusses the establishment of various Friends groups to aid in non-profit partnerships, volunteer recruitment, and trail development over the years, along with advancements in interpretive programs and facilitation of forest health treatments to prevent wildfires and enhance habitat for wildlife. Additionally, updates on ongoing projects, access to forest trails, and the need for public engagement in preserving natural resources are outlined, encouraging community support through initiatives like the New Mexico Friends of the Forest.

A new Preventive Maintenance, Restoration, Repair, and Maintenance Contracts service is being offered with a free inspection. A Waste Hotline has been established for reporting water waste issues, while new developments include a Mormon church construction and a future Jewel Osco store with a Pet Central. Updates on landscaping projects, trailheads, and a new estate lot area in High Desert are shared, along with a new craft recycling center at UNM called Wemagination Center. This center collects and repurposes various materials for educational purposes and crafting, promoting creativity and environmental awareness among children and adults. Keywords: preventive maintenance, waste hotline, Mormon church, Jewel Osco, landscaping, High Desert, Wemagination Center, recycling.

For those with an abundance of tomatoes, drying them is a cost-effective way to preserve the excess. The best variety for drying is the Roma tomato, and selecting high acid tomatoes can prevent black spots during the drying process. Instructions for preparing tomatoes for drying are provided, including sun drying and using an electric dehydrator. The newsletter also includes recipes for chickpea spread, smoked salmon log, and crab dip, along with information on upcoming events like the release of the directory and estate garage sales in the area. Keywords: dried tomatoes, Roma tomatoes, drying process, recipes, directory release, estate garage sale.

The newsletter features various community announcements such as babysitting services, a local ophthalmologist's contact information, and details about an upcoming Arts & Crafts Bazaar. Additionally, it includes a list of new board members for SHHA and their respective roles, along with a brief profile of the new association president. The president, Marshall Aungier, is described as an Albuquerque attorney with a background in Tax law and Estate Planning, as well as interests in violin making, golf, swimming, and hiking in the Sandia foothills.

Keywords: project reviews, volunteer program, Sandia Heights Homeowners Association, interpretive programs, construction monitoring, wildfire prevention, Arts & Crafts Bazaar, Themes: Architectural Control Committee, golf, ophthalmologist, habitat enhancement, swimming, trail development, news contribution, landscaping projects, Friends groups, New Mexico Friends of the Forest, Estate Planning, babysitting, forest health, Arts and Crafts Bazaar, Communications Committee, exterior alterations, community engagement, hiking., The Grit newspaper, natural resource preservation., covenants, association president, SHHA board members, recreational enhancements, violin making, Tax law