medicine_wheel_PPR : Messages : 556-585 of 616

There are large efforts afoot among the some of the hiking/equestrian/wilderness communities to see that this does not occur. Please take the time to submit comments to help make it a reality.

Happy Holidays,

Jim Yount

Please Take Action Now!

719-540-1505

Take Action

The U.S. National Park Service (NPS) has proposed an important rule change that will make it easier for parks to open trails to mountain biking. IMBA urges mountain bikers to register comments in support of the new rule. We have been asking the NPS to make this change since the 1990s — we now enter a 60-day commentary period to make the change official.

Take Action Now!

We know that several groups are working hard to defeat this proposal. It will take thousands of comments supporting the NPS to ensure the rule is approved. Please lend your voice to the discussion today.

Bicycling broadens recreational offerings in national parks and helps Americans get much-needed exercise. It connects people with the natural world and is a fun, low-impact activity. Observers of national parks worry that the NPS is losing relevance with today's youth — bicycling can help address that problem. Mountain biking is a great way to help kids fall in love with parks. According to the Outdoor Industry Foundation, bicycling is a leading “gateway activity” that gets kids outside and interested in outdoor pursuits, such as hiking, camping and fishing.

Many trails will not be good candidates for bicycle use. IMBA recognizes that bicycling will not be considered in Wilderness Areas or Wilderness Study Areas, and that many historic parks and battlefields will not be suitable for mountain biking. We also know, however, that shared-use trails have proven successful in thousands of locations, including many federally managed parks.

The most promising properties offer a combination of non-Wilderness lands and underutilized facilities that make them good candidates for expanded mountain biking opportunities. IMBA-affiliated clubs can assist the NPS in identifying the best locations for mountain biking. If the local NPS staff agrees an opportunity exists, our clubs stand ready to provide park staff with volunteer resources.

As the proposal explicitly states, none of the NPS procedures for environmental review — or opportunities for public commentary — will be diminished by this rule change. What it achieves is a more manageable system for adopting mountain biking trails. The proposal states, "As a general matter, the proposed rule provides park superintendents with a more efficient and effective way to determine whether opening existing trails to bicycles would be appropriate in the park unit they manage."

Thanks for taking action,

Mike Van Abel
Executive Director
International Mountain Bicycling Association

Top: Youth experiencing Fort Dupont Park by bicycle. Bottom: IMBA volunteers at Whiskeytown National Recreation Area.

You can read IMBA's white paper analysis of the proposed rule change and view the entire text in the Federal Register online. We believe that this measure will enhance national parks and deserves your support — please file your comments and help bring responsible, sustainable mountain biking to America’s most treasured places.

Don’t underestimate the importance of supporting mountain biking in National Parks. State and local land managers look to these places to guide their access considerations. Maybe you don’t have a unit of the National Park Service in your backyard, but many of IMBA’s 700 clubs do. They need your help today!

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#584

From: Jim Schwerin <jim@...>
Date: Thu Dec 18, 2008 7:05 pm
Subject: Lake Pueblo Trail Plan - COMMENTS NEEDED!

martlet66

Offline

Folks:

Lake Pueblo State Park is drafting a new trails plan and is soliciting public comment. The biggest impacts are around a new proposed trail to the west and around proposed commercial equestrian use of the park. Please take the time to look at the new plans and provide State Parks with your comments. Also note that there will be a public meeting or two.

Thanks and Happy Holidays!

>From the press release:

Public Comment Sought on Lake Pueblo State Park’s Trails Management Plan

PUEBLO, Colo. – The Lake Pueblo State Park Draft Trails Management Plan was released on Wednesday and park managers are seeking public comment on the draft plan.

“Providing recreational opportunities that keep up with rising demands is one of the goals of Colorado State Parks,” said Brad Henley, assistant manager at Lake Pueblo State Park. “We want the public to comment on the plan, which would add additional trailheads and trails.

“We want to ensure pedestrians, equestrians and mountain bikers have quality recreational opportunities at Lake Pueblo, but on a trail system that is sustainable,” said Henley.

Copies of the Draft Lake Pueblo State Park Trails Management Plan and maps are available for review during normal business hours at the Lake Pueblo State Park Visitor Center, located on the south side of the reservoir, at 640 Pueblo Reservoir Road in Pueblo.

The Draft Lake Pueblo State Park Trails Management Plan and maps are also available on Lake Pueblo State Park’s website and can be viewed by using the following link: http://parks.state.co.us/Parks/LakePueblo/Trails/

Written public comments on the draft management plan are welcome and must be received by Jan. 30, 2009. Please send comments to: Attn: Brad Henley, Lake Pueblo State Park, 640 Pueblo Reservoir Rd., Pueblo, CO., 81005, or e-mail comments to lake.pueblo.park@....

Lake Pueblo State Park will host an open house from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 9, 2009 at the visitor center to gather final public input. Trail maps will be on display and park staff will be available to answer questions and provide additional information. Written comments will be accepted during the meeting.

All written comments will be reviewed. All comments will be grouped by issue and a single response will be prepared for each substantive issue. All comments and responses will be released as an appendix to final management plan.

#583

From: Jim Schwerin <jim@...>
Date: Thu Dec 4, 2008 4:59 pm
Subject: Re: Medicine Wheel - White Acres Annexation Meeting on Wednesday Dec 3rd

martlet66

Offline

We're on it. The Corral Bluffs planning process looks like it will take at least a year, maybe more, but I'm in contact with the City about it and will definitely keep the MW community informed and involved.

The White Acres topic is a lot more involved than the public is generally aware. I believe (and this is strictly my personal opinion) that Mr. Howard and the church are playing public opinion to try to force council to buy it. It is a matter of public record that at least one major project that Mr. Howard is involved in is under foreclosure. Add to that the fact that there is literally NO market for developed housing lots and one can see that Mr. Howard and the church will be under tremendous pressure, financially. It would take a significant amount of money to develop the lots, money which I don't believe is available. (I say this as a developer myself) I think patience is the key and that white acres can eventually be bought for much closer to what is a reasonable price.

Jim

Brian Kay wrote:

Hey Rob,

They bought Corral Bluffs instead? :(

From speaking with Lee Milner and others involved with Corral Bluffs, there may be potential for new MTB trails at Corral Bluffs. IMHO, It's freeride heaven.

I would suggest Med Wheel actively take part in the master planning process for the Corral Bluffs property also? Just a thought.

Brian
520.6985

From: medicine_wheel_PPR@yahoogroups.com [mailto:medicine_wheel_PPR@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Rob Lucas
Sent: Tuesday, December 02, 2008 10:05 PM
To: medicine_wheel_PPR@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Medicine Wheel - White Acres Annexation Meeting on Wednesday Dec 3rd

The city has rejected buying White Acres for open space. There's a meeting
about annexing White Acres tomorrow from 6 to 8 PM at Midland Elementary
School, 2110 West Broadway Street.

It sounds like the developer has agreed to leave half of it undeveloped. It's
not clear if that means the singletrack along the ridge will be left intact.
Even if it is I don't want to be looking at a few dozen houses. I plan to be
at the meeting to find out more.

Rob
Blog: http://www.ultrarob.com/blog
Search Cycling and Outdoor Gear: http://www.ultrarob.com/
Cycling and Outdoor Deals: http://www.ultrarob.com/shop/topdeals.php

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#582

From: Jim Schwerin <jim@...>
Date: Thu Dec 4, 2008 4:49 pm
Subject: IMPORTANT- White Acres Meeting was Wednesday Night

martlet66

Offline

PLEASE NOTE that because of a technical glitch, the previous message about the white acres annexation was sent out a day late in error.

THE WHITE ACRES MEETING HAPPENED LAST NIGHT (Wednesday) so please do not plan on going "tomorrow", as there won't be a meeting.

Sorry for the extra email.

#581

From: "Rob Lucas" <mtnman@...>
Date: Wed Dec 3, 2008 5:05 am
Subject: White Acres Annexation Meeting on Wednesday Dec 3rd

MtnManProfile

Offline

The city has rejected buying White Acres for open space.  There's a meeting
about annexing White Acres tomorrow from 6 to 8 PM at Midland Elementary
School, 2110 West Broadway Street.

It sounds like the developer has agreed to leave half of it undeveloped.  It's
not clear if that means the singletrack along the ridge will be left intact.
Even if it is I don't want to be looking at a few dozen houses.  I plan to be
at the meeting to find out more.


Rob
Blog: http://www.ultrarob.com/blog
Search Cycling and Outdoor Gear: http://www.ultrarob.com/
Cycling and Outdoor Deals: http://www.ultrarob.com/shop/topdeals.php

Reply | Forward | Messages in this Topic (2)

#580

From: Jim Schwerin <jim@...>
Date: Fri Nov 14, 2008 2:55 pm
Subject: SUNDAY at 1PM - Ute Valley Park New Trail Touch Up

martlet66

Offline

When: Sunday November 16, 1PM

Where: Ute Valley Park West side entrance off of Mule Deer Rd.

Why: Because you love to ride

We will be going over the new trail that SRAM built last month. The main focus will be on making sure the tread is level and not off camber and checking the drainage. There may be a few corners to direct the water off. We will also take some brooms to sweep off the "duff".

We will only work for as long as everyone wants to. This will not be as structured as the original build day. We would like to get an idea of how many people are willing to work though. This will affect the number of tools that we bring. Please reply to Jim at medwheel.org if you would like to volunteer so we know hwo many to expect.

As usual, bring long pants, boots, eye protection, gloves, water, etc.

If we feel the first trail is in good shape and we still feel like working, we may go over to the other new trail and get some work done. This trail is mostly cut, but needs a lot of work on the tread. There is also some rocks to move.

See you there,

Andy Shawver

#579

From: Jim Schwerin <jim@...>
Date: Wed Oct 8, 2008 9:43 pm
Subject: Support Roadless Area Protection for Colorado's Best Singletrack

martlet66

Offline

International Mountain Bicycling Association

Take Action

Support Roadless Area Protection for Colorado’s Best Singletrack

IMBA and the Outdoor Alliance urge Colorado mountain bikers to support strong Roadless Area protection that preserves important singletrack, including Hermosa Creek, Monarch Crest, Rabbit Ears Pass and more. A proposed Forest Service rule for four million Roadless Area acres contains too many exemptions for development and extraction, potentially putting important mountain biking trails at risk.

Distinct from designated Wilderness, Roadless Areas are incredibly important for mountain biking because they are generally accessible and open to a variety of sustainable recreational pursuits. The proposed measures will have a tremendous impact on our activity and the environments surrounding our favorite trails. Your support is vital to ensure the character of Colorado riding remains intact.

Take Action! Tell the Forest Service you support strong protection for bicycle-friendly Roadless Areas. The deadline for comments is Oct. 23.

Watch a video about Roadless Areas.

Why Are Roadless Areas Important?

In Colorado, as in most Western states, many of our mountain biking adventures take place on National Forest land, and often in Roadless Areas. The captivating terrain in Colorado’s high peak backcountry offers mountain bikers some of the world’s most sought-after singletrack.

We treasure these areas for their pristine mountain trails, challenging climbs and flowing descents. Many of the best trails take bicyclists deep into the forest, to lands untouched by roads and development. This ability to get away from it all is what separates average rides from the truly memorable.

Included in these gems are important trails like the Monarch Crest, Colorado, Kenosha Pass, Rabbit Ears Pass and Hermosa Creek, just to name a few. Under the proposed plan the 401 Trail near Crested Butte would be removed completely from Roadless Area protection, thus threatening the very characteristics that define it. For all Roadless Area mountain biking trails, wild and adventurous character makes them special attractions; their solitude and accessibility heighten their appeal.

Colorado mountain biking relies on good trails and healthy natural settings, both of which are at the heart of Forest Service Roadless Areas. Roadless Areas are not Wilderness, but they provide similar backcountry experiences and are more easily accessed and often open to mountain biking. Roadless Areas make up about 31% of our National Forests and are ecological gems with clean air, water and plenty of wildlife.

History of the Roadless Rule

IMBA strongly supported the national 2001 Roadless Rule because of its strong and consistent protection for these special places. Despite overwhelming support for the 2001 rule, the U.S. Forest Service has proposed a new management plan for Colorado that will substantially weaken protections for these areas.

This situation arose out of Colorado Governor Ritter’s desire to establish an insurance policy for the state's backcountry roadless areas, given legal uncertainty with the 2001 rule. Unfortunately, protections for backcountry forests have been substantially weakened over the 2001 rule and those policies recommended by a Colorado task force under then-Governor Owens. New loopholes have been opened to further degrade the quality of these precious lands. Your comments are needed to close the loopholes.

While IMBA and the Outdoor Alliance believe the 2001 rule offers the best protection of these profoundly important resources, there are a number of ways to improve the proposed Colorado Roadless Rule and care for Colorado’s open spaces, wild landscapes and intact ecosystems.

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#578

From: Jim Schwerin <jim@...>
Date: Tue Oct 7, 2008 3:09 pm
Subject: Thanks for Red Rock Canyon Maintenance

martlet66

Offline

On Thursday of last week we held a maintenance day out at the Red Rock Canyon Skills Park (the freeride area) and it's now better than new! The big teeter totter has been replaced with a stronger design, the small teeter was repaired, lots of miscellaneous loose boards & screws were fixed and the place was generally cleaned up. About 7 people worked for up to 6 hours each.

Just wanted to give a huge thanks to the guys that helped:

Craig Carroll
Dan Nolan
Tim Black
Jim Job
Harry Hammill
Bill Marbaker

To top it off, the first rider over the new big teeter was a 6 year old boy helped by his dad!

Thanks again to everyone for their support.

Untitled Document

Jim Schwerin
Medicine Wheel Trail Advocates, Inc.
Phone & Fax - 719-633-0025
jim@...

#577

From: Jim Schwerin <jim@...>
Date: Fri Oct 3, 2008 5:42 pm
Subject: Proposed Bear Creek Trail

martlet66

Offline

Good Morning!

Medicine Wheel is proposing to build a new connector trail in the Bear Creek Canyon - Section 16 area and the parks department would like to hear your feedback before the next parks board meeting on Thursday, October 9.

The trail would be located near the four-way intersection of Gold Camp Road, Bear Creek Road, and the bottom of Bear Creek Canyon and will connect to the section 16 parking lot from higher up on Gold Camp Road. The attached map shows the approximate proposed route.

The trail has some magnificent views and, we feel, offers a much enhanced trail user experience for that area. One other benefit will be to get some bikers off the road in that area of the canyon. Of course, the trail will benefit all trail users, not just mountain bikers.

If you support the approval of this new trail, please send an email to JHaley@...

As soon as it's fully approved, we'll let you know how you can help build it.

Thanks again for your support of Medicine Wheel.

Untitled Document

Jim Schwerin
Medicine Wheel Trail Advocates, Inc.
Phone & Fax - 719-633-0025
jim@...

#576

From: "Yount, Jim T." <jim.yount@...>
Date: Fri Sep 26, 2008 9:09 pm
Subject: FW: News from Trails and Open Space Coalition - El Paso County Budget

ejyount22

Offline

Trails and Open Space Coalition Newsletter

In This Issue

El Paso County Budget

Art for Land's Sake

Search, Shop and Support

Community Fairs

Annual Meeting

Quick Links

Donate Now!

TOSC Website

Join our list

Dear Friend of the Trails and Open Space Coalition,

As we transition from summer to fall, we hope you are enjoying the beautiful weather and the incredible colors of the leaves as they change. While we look forward to the recreation opportunities offered in the fall and winter, we continue to work on a variety of projects to ensure that the trail and open space system in the Pikes Peak region is preserved and expanded.

Please see the information below to learn of some opportunities that could benefit from your participation and interest.

El Paso County Budget

The Board of County Commissioners will continue discussions on the 2009 budget on Monday, September 29 at 9 a.m. at the County Office Building.

The Budget Department has provided two potential budgets if the November ballot issue does not pass. The first proposal includes a spending cut of 10% across the board, which would result in a reduction of $103,000 for Parks. The second proposal includes the elimination of all tax support for Parks ($623,000). If the Safer Communities Initiative (Ballot issue 1A) does pass, Parks would incur a 5% reduction or $52,000.

Please take some time out of your day on Monday to let the Board of County Commissioners know how you feel about the 2009 Budget proposals and their potential impacts on parks.

Art for Land's Sake

Hosted by the Palmer Land Trust

Palmer Land Trust will be hosting an art show of art created by local artists of some of the beautiful properties on Palmer Land Trust properties. The art show will be at the Gay and Lesbian Fund of Colorado, located at 315 E. Costilla, on Friday, September 26th from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. and Saturday, September 27th from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. For more information, please visit www.palmerlandtrust.org.

Search the Web and Support TOSC

Did you know you can search the web and support TOSC at the same time? Its as easy as using www.goodsearch.com as your search engine and entering Trails and Open Space Coalition as your charity! For each search, Good Search will donate $0.01 to TOSC. Those pennies can really add up!

You can also shop online at your favorite retailers and support TOSC. Visit www.goodshop.com, select the retailer, and shop away! A portion of your purchase will be donated to TOSC (just remember to designate us!).

Community Fairs

We will be at a number of community fairs in the next few weeks, including Fort Carson, El Paso Western Pipelines, the Air Force Academy, Peterson and the City Administratio Building. If you will be attending any of these fairs, please stop by to say hello, pick up a map of Red Rock Canyon or Cheyenne Mountain State Park and share your stories from the trails. If your workplace holds a community fair, please make sure TOSC is invited! Call 633-6884 for additional information.

Our Combined Federal Campaign Number is 96565. Our Community Shares Number is 5100. You can also write us into any United Way Campaign. Thank you!

Annual Meeting

Save the date for the Trails and Open Space Coalition's annual meeting!

Please join the board and staff of the Trails and Open Space Coalition on Wednesday, November 19th at 7 p.m. at the Colorado Springs Senior Center. We will have presentations on the region's trail and open space systems, including additions to the bicycle infrastructure. See you there!

Thank you for your support!

Sincerely,

Trails and Open Space Coalition

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#575

From: Jim Schwerin <jim@...>
Date: Thu Sep 25, 2008 10:13 pm
Subject: Mountain Bike Patrol Fall Ride

martlet66

Offline

Greetings Riders!

The Medicine Wheel branch of the mountain bike patrol is being restarted here in Colorado Springs. More information is available at www.medwheel.org/patrol.htm

Here's a copy of Ryan's email to anyone interested: If you would like to contact Ryan directly, email him at patrol@...

Hello everyone!
I'm sending out an invite for a MTB ride followed-up by a little
meeting to get folks together and start developing the group a bit
more. Feel free to bring friends and family along to the ride or
meeting! So here are the details...
MTB Ride (AM):
Saturday October 4th meet at the upper parking lot in Cheyenne Canyon
at 7:30am. This is the intersection of High Drive, Cheyenne Canyon,
and Gold Camp Road. The plan is to ride up Gold Camp to Jones Park to
enjoy some great fall colors and then have a ripping good time
descending back down to High Drive.
This is a no-drop ride and we will regroup at various locations along
the way to keep everyone together. The pace will be social all
morning, except on the downhills of course!  ;-) 
Total time will be approximately 4-5 hours.
* Normally I wouldn't choose this long of a route for the first group
ride, but it's my birthday weekend and too good of a ride to pass up!
*
Meeting (PM):
We can plan to meet in the afternoon at Trinity Brewing Company on
1466 Garden of the Gods Road and hang out for a little while. Stay as
long or as short as you want; this is just to get together, hang out
as a group, and chat a little bit ab out how the patrol will work.
By the way, if you haven't looked at the menu at Trinity Brewing yet,
definitely check it out! Nothing like great food after a long day in
the saddle riding in the dirt!  :) 
Please reply to let me know if you are interested and able to make
either of these events.
See you on the trail!
Ryan

#574

From: Jim Schwerin <jim@...>
Date: Wed Sep 17, 2008 10:16 pm
Subject: Carpenters Needed for Red Rock Skills Park

martlet66

Offline

Greetings MTB enthusiasts,

The Freeride Skills Park in Red Rock Canyon needs some TLC, and after looking at the situation, it seems that the work could be accomplished by a couple or three competent carpenters in two to three hours. Generally speaking, some boards need replacing, one of the teeters needs to be reassembled and lag bolted, lots of screws need tightening, etc.

This is the kind of job where a small, knowledgeable crew would be much more efficient than a large group with no experience, so,

Are there any mountain bikers out there who might be interested in donating their time and use of tools to do some maintenance on the park? We could knock it out in no time. Of course, Medicine Wheel will pay for all materials.

If you are interested or know someone who could be, just send me an email.

Thanks!

Untitled Document

Jim Schwerin
Medicine Wheel Trail Advocates, Inc.
Phone & Fax - 719-633-0025
jim@...

#573

From: "Yount, Jim T." <jim.yount@...>
Date: Mon Sep 8, 2008 3:47 pm
Subject: Historic Trails Talk & Cheyenne Mountain State Park Public Meeting this Tuesday, 9/9/8

ejyount22

Offline

There are a couple of meetings of potential interest to members of Medicine Wheel. Both are going on tomorrow, Tuesday, 9/9/8.

1) The first is a presentation on historic trails in the Pikes Peak region by Robert Houdek. Ormes & Houdek’s Pikes Peak Atlas is the map that we all use to plan rides. Gain some insight on your favorite trails or plan some new loops. See details below.

2) Also on Tuesday is the final planning meeting for the newly acquired top of Cheyenne Mountain. Equestrians got organized and were out in force at the last meeting to ensure their voice was heard. The comments from that meeting reflect this. However, there weren’t many comments supporting biking (although there weren’t negative comments on bikes either – see the comments here: http://parks.state.co.us/NR/rdonlyres/EFB2230D-412D-455E-AA9C-7A634540FD1B/14159/Websitemeetingsummary.pdf). Cyclists can do the same this time around if we show up in force, so come and see that mountain bikes are also a big part of the plan. The meeting is at Cheyenne Mountain Jr. High - details can be viewed here (http://parks.state.co.us/News/CalendarofEvents/index.asp?EventID=16294).

Although I’m advocating for mountain biker participation and would love to be at both of these meetings, I can’t make it to either. Unfortunately I have a prior open space advocacy meeting commitment. So go and speak up!

Jim Yount

719-540-1505

#572

From: Jim Schwerin <jim@...>
Date: Fri Aug 1, 2008 3:52 pm
Subject: Jefferson County Open Space MTB Forum

martlet66

Offline

Normally wouldn't pass this on, but the trails in Jefferson County have been seeing some substantial MTB issues lately, including riders being ticketed (some think unfairly) by rangers. Anyway, an open house with the park managers of Jefferson County Open Space has been arranged for August 19. It would be nice to show some support to our fellow riders up north. Details are below.

Have a great weekend!

-------- Original Message --------

Subject:	RE: Jefferson County Open Space Public Forum On Recent Trail Maintenance
Date:
From:
To:
CC:

Good morning to you, as well:

As President of COMBA, I’m delighted to announce that COMBA’s Open Space Trails Forum will take place on Aug. 19^th, at the Taj (Jefferson County Courts and Admin Building), from 7 – 9 pm. Please mark your calendars. COMBA will be providing a pre-registration page (at COMBA.org) in order that those who wish to comment provide their names and addresses. This page will be available on Monday. (This sign up is one of the conditions that was asked for and agreed to in order that the forum proceed; It is designed to give both JCOS and COMBA a fair idea of how many will attend and how many will comment. We have two issues— enforcement by issuance of failure to yield tickets and the trail work, and only two hours to handle both. Adjustments in time to comment may be necessary but we’ll only know through the numbers that pre-registration provides to us.)

COMBA looks forward to seeing you there. Thanks. -P

From: Tom and Carolyn Roan
Sent: Friday, August 01, 2008 7:00 AM
To:

Good morning all,

COMBA wants to make sure you all are in the loop on this forum, as well as the issue we’re dealing with in Jeffco presently. Please read below for details. Whether you ride here or not, this issue presents an opportunity to observe or participate in the management of a problem between local land managers are the mountain biking community. COMBA encourages you to attend.

logo for HTML email

COMBA Organizes Open Space Trails Public Forum

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Dear COMBA members -

Any mountain biker who's ridden Apex's Pick -N- Sledge trail lately has been in for a surprise. This trail, along with others on the Front Range, has received a serious facelift from the Jefferson County Open Space Parks Department. Open Space sometimes has to get pretty serious with shovels, drastically changing the look of trails that have suffered serious erosion at the hands of wind, water and people. Open Space has had other priorities in the past few years, so this kind of work hasn't been seen until recently. Well, that has changed. And some are not impressed. In fact, many in the mountain bike community are down-right angry that the trails they love have changed so dramatically. To top it off, some mountain bikers have recently been ticketed for failing to yield to hikers.

These circumstances have led many to seek answers and register their complaints. Some have made plans to attend OSAC meetings. Others have unfortunately engaged in criminal acts-threats of violence against Open Space Staff and vandalism. Criminal conduct does not aid our community. Indeed, the only strategies such behavior serves are those of the user groups who would love to see mountain bikers without access to Open Space parks.

Open Space is aware that the recent trail work and enforcement activities have raised many questions. After receiving a number of complaints from mountain bikers, Open Space wrote an open letter to the trail community explaining why this work was done. Please see the Open Space Parks website newslink if you want to read the letter. ( http://co.jefferson.co.us/openspace , click on "News" between "A-Z" and "Trails". )

The Colorado Mountain Bike Association understands the anger and frustration that many mountain bikers feel. COMBA thinks, however, the best way to deal with these issues is through serious discussion with Open Space. Toward that end, COMBA has asked Open Space to meet with the mountain biking community to do just that. Open Space has agreed. COMBA will facilitate a forum, with Open Space staff as its guests, during the third week of August at the Jefferson County Courts and Administration Building (the Taj Mahal) in Golden. The exact date, time, and room location will be announced as soon as possible.

If you're girding for a fight, stay home. This is not your chance to rant. Rude or disrespectful people will be asked to leave. This is your chance to listen and to ask questions and offer constructive, respectful comment. When you arrive, you'll sign in. If you want to speak, be prepared to get to the point. COMBA wants to make sure everybody who wants to comment has the opportunity to do so.

COMBA looks forward to seeing you at the Taj!

COMBA Board of Directors

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COMBA • Colorado Mountain Bike Association | PO Box 280415 | Lakewood | CO | 80228

#571

From: Jim Schwerin <jim@...>
Date: Mon Jul 28, 2008 4:48 am
Subject: Volunteer Project at Stratton Open Space

martlet66

Offline

http://www.voutdoors.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=Events.View&Event_ID=2173&fulldesc=true&fullinfo=false

While this isn't a Medicine Wheel project, VOC does excellent work and Stratton is where the Chutes are located.� Please go to the link below to sign up.

Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado needs you and your volunteers for a trail project!

�

August 9, 2008

(150 volunteers needed � minimum age: 12)

�

The East-West Trail in Stratton Open Space, just west of Colorado Springs , is a diverse region of five ecosystems. The Parks ponderosa pine forests, scrub oak brush lands, high meadow grasslands, cattail marsh and riparian area are home to a wide variety of wildlife. Thousands of visitors utilize the park each year for its panoramic views and popular hiking and mountain biking trails. Stratton�s popularity has led to a growing network of social trails that threaten its beauty and habitats. Join your Front Range neighbors to construct and rehabilitate 4,500 feet of trail, close social trails and rehabilitate scarred areas by planting native grasses.�

�

Right now�we are really short of volunteers and we need you!� Please help spread the word.

�

Work Day is 7:30-3:30

�

Use this link to sign up individuals or groups.

�

You may also contact the VOC office at 303-715-1010 and speak with Kara Silbernagel.

�Thank you!

Tamara Shuck

#570

From: Jim Schwerin <jim@...>
Date: Mon Jul 21, 2008 8:05 pm
Subject: Colorado State Parks Accepting Public Comments

martlet66

Offline

Colorado State Parks Accepting Public Comments

Colorado State Parks announced the release of the draft 2008 Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP). This draft serves as the principal guide for statewide outdoor recreation planning. The main goal of the 2008-2012 SCORP is to identify outdoor recreation trends, needs, and issues for Colorado, as well as to provide a strategic plan to help address priority issues. The SCORP must also evaluate the demand for and supply of outdoor recreation resources and facilities statewide. The SCORP is also a requirement for eligibility for federal Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) appropriations.

Public comment on the SCORP is being accepted through July 28. Please contact Scott Babcock at (303) 866-3203, extension 4306 or scott.babcock@... or Wendy Newman at (719) 302-3758 or wendy.newman@.... Full text and maps of the plan can be found here.

#569

From: Jim Schwerin <jim@...>
Date: Sun Jul 6, 2008 7:25 pm
Subject: Top of Cheyenne Mtn - Public Process Dates

martlet66

Offline

Colorado State Parks is starting the public process to help develop the master plan for the top of Cheyenne Mountain (which will become part of Cheyenne Mountain State Park) and they want to hear from you, the public.

Hello Volunteers, Friends and CMSP staff

The first meeting date is Tuesday, July 15 at 6:00 pm at the Cheyenne Mountain Junior High School Commons, 1200 W. Cheyenne Road.

Cheyenne Mountain State Park has been a great addition to the mountain bicycling and outdoor experience in Colorado Springs; let's make sure that the top of the mountain has just as much great riding!

I have attached a pdf from State Parks which has more details and information.

Please, mark your calendars and go to the meeting!

#568

From: Jim Schwerin <jim@...>
Date: Thu Jul 3, 2008 7:36 pm
Subject: Help Save the Continental Divide Trail Near Yellowstone National Park

martlet66

Offline

International Mountain Bicycling Association

Take Action

Help Save the Continental Divide Trail Near Yellowstone National Park

IMBA and the Montana Mountain Bike Alliance urge all mountain bikers to help prevent bike prohibitions on the Continental Divide Trail and other epic singletrack near Yellowstone National Park. The Gallatin National Forest has proposed a bicycle ban on five trails in the extraordinary Lionhead area, totaling more than 25 miles. Your support is crucial if these trails are to remain open to mountain biking.

“We depend on Lionhead's backcountry trails and setting,” says Kelli Sanders, co-owner of the IMBA-affiliated bicycle and ski retailer Freeheel and Wheel. “Visiting cyclists highly value the solitude and challenge of traversing the Continental Divide Trail or visiting the pristine Coffin Lakes. We hope the Forest Service continues to protect this important area and its traditional bicycling trails.”

The trails, considered the best in the surrounding area, also provide a cherished escape for Bozeman and Big Sky residents and are instantly popular with visiting mountain bikers.

Take Action!

Tell the Forest Service to protect the Continental Divide Trail and other trails in a bicycle-friendly manner. The deadline for comments is July 18.

Additional Information

Lionhead's trails have been respectfully ridden by bicyclists and shared successfully with equestrians, hikers and other trail users for decades.

Cyclists have contributed many hours of trail maintenance in the Lionhead area and are invested and responsible stakeholders in the future of this trail system.

The Lionhead area is already designated non-motorized and the continued presence of bicycles will not damage the resource or diminish its wilderness character.

Bicyclists enjoy the Lionhead trail system for the same reason as other quiet trail users. We value the solitude, beauty and challenge of exploring backcountry singletrack.

The Forest Service can protect the land and allow for continued bicycling - there is no need to choose between the two. The Lionhead RWA is a perfect candidate for a Congressional designation such as National Recreation Area that can permanently protect the area from new roads and mining while allowing continued bicycle access and giving the Forest Service better management options.

The economic, social and health contributions of mountain biking in the Gallatin National Forest should be nurtured and promoted as an integral piece of forest planning and a lucrative component to the regional recreation mix.

Writing Your Own Letter

Unique, personalized messages are extremely important. Concerned mountain bikers can submit their comments using either IMBA’s simple online form or through their own email address or a mailed letter. All options allow you to edit your comments for maximum effect.

If you want to write your own letter, please be sure to include the following:

(1) name, address, telephone number, and organization represented, if any;
(2) title of the action (i.e. “Lionhead Bike Prohibition”);
(3) specific facts and supporting reasons to be consider; and
(4) signatures.

Letters can be sent to:

Gallatin National Forest
Attn: Steve Christiansen
P.O. Box 130
Bozeman, MT 59771
r1_gallatin_comments@...

Lionhead

Mountain bikers want to protect the trails and land near Yellowstone National Park. Photos: Bob and Estela Allen.

Three Things You Can Do

1. Take Action!

2. Help save trails like these around the country by donating to the IMBA Legal Fund.

3. Tell your friends to take action!

Epic Areas at Risk

This decision would close 27 miles of traditional mountain biking trails. The routes slated for closure include the iconic Continental Divide Trail and backcountry singletrack leading to Sheep Lake and Coffin Lakes.

Donate Now | News | Membership
Tell a Friend | Update my IMBA Profile | Unsubscribe

#567

From: Jim Schwerin <jim@...>
Date: Tue Jun 24, 2008 7:21 pm
Subject: A Big Thank You to our Sponsors & Volunteers!

martlet66

Offline

Greetings Mountain Cyclists!

Medicine Wheel has had a fantastic summer so far and we really want to thank the following people and organizations for their support in 2008. In no particular order, our thanks go out to:

Whole Foods Market - These guys were fantastic, showing up for two different work days with over 35 people to help us finish the singletrack project in Bear Creek Park.

Bristol Brewery - Besides being our unofficial beer sponsor (every club should have one) and making some tasty brews, the folks at Bristol came out and spent an afternoon helping Medicine Wheel to finish up the Bear Creek singletrack.

Recreational Equipment, Inc. - REI donated $10,000 to the Bear Creek Singletrack project. That speaks for itself.

El Paso County - The whole Bear Creek Singletrack project happened because the county invited Medicine Wheel to help with the design and construction of the course, which was recently featured as the venue for the resurrected Sand Creek Race Series.

SRAM - You may know them as the makers of Rock Shox, SRAM Components, or Truvative, but a whole bunch of people from their local engineering facility came out and volunteered for a trail maintenance day in Ute Valley Park (where they test a lot of their gear). More trail maintenance, as well as a couple of trail re-routes, are planned with SRAM, so stay tuned.

LSI Logic - Another group provided by one of our local companies, they worked for hours in Ute Valley Park just last week to help maintain the trails there.

Classic Homes - The Classic Companies Charitable Fund of the Pikes Peak Community Foundation made a very generous donation of cash to Medicine Wheel Trail Advocates, which will help us greatly in advocating for trails throughout the Pikes Peak region. A lot of the people at Classic are cyclists and we appreciate their support.

Colorado Springs Cycling Club - The CSCC held an auction of a New Belgium cruiser bike and raised proceeds of nearly $1,600.00 which they presented to Medicine Wheel this week. Thanks guys!

Suzanne DeVore and Mark Seaton - They were the lucky winners of the New Belgium cruiser and decided to send Medicine Wheel an extra $25.00! Wow, thank you Suzanne and Mark!

Sigma Metals - Donated the design and construction of the new posts for one of the teeter totters in the Red Rock Canyon skills park, after the old one had some maintenance issues. Thank you Sigma.

We also would like to thank all the individual volunteers who have given their valuable time help MWTA do its job. We at Medicine Wheel Trail Advocates couldn't do what we do without the generous support of the community. (if we have forgotten anyone, please send me an email)

Finally, we have updated the Medicine Wheel web page with the latest on our progress in 2008 here.

Now, everyone go out and have a fantastic summer on the trails.

#566

From: "Yount, Jim T." <jim.yount@...>
Date: Tue Jun 3, 2008 2:47 pm
Subject: White Acres info

ejyount22

Offline

The Friends of Red Rock Canyon have updated their website to add a
section on "White Acres" - see link below and don't forget to send
comments if you'd like to see the parcel preserved.

Jim Yount
jyount@...
719-540-1505

-----Original Message-----
From: friends@...
Subject: White Acres

As you know, TOPS is exploring the possibility of acquiring the Bethany
Baptist Church property, "White Acres." This property adjoins both Red
Rock Canyon Open Space and Section 16 and has significant open space
value. TOPS is inviting people to comment any time on the possible White
Acres Open Space by sending e-mails to: clieber@...

We have added information on White Acres to the Friends of Red Rock
Canyon website so you can learn more:

http://www.redrockcanyonopenspace.org/page56.html

#565

From: Jim Schwerin <jim@...>
Date: Fri May 23, 2008 10:10 pm
Subject: IMPORTANT Message from TOSC - El Paso Parks Cuts

martlet66

Offline

El Paso County Considering Cutting Parks

Public Comments Needed on County Parks Budget Cuts

Board of County Commissioners Work Session

Tuesday, May 27, 2008, 9 a.m.

27 E. Vermijo, 3rd Floor

The BOCC will take public comments on potential budget cuts for 2008 at this work session. As we all know, the county is facing a severe budget deficit. Part of its solution will severely impact the county parks department. This is your opportunity to show up and express your opinion on the proposed cuts.

Essentially, the proposal will zero out the general fund support for parks leaving the department to survive only on a small lottery allocation and developer fees. This would save approximately $560,000 for the County. In 2003, the department was operating with a $2.3M general fund budget.

Here are the proposed cuts:

- Lay off 5 general fund full time staff members ($168,000)

- Close Bear Creek and Fountain Creek Nature Centers including laying off 5 full time staff members($170,000)

- Canceling all landscape contracts and trying to do the work internally ($67,000),

- Further reducing operations by $155,000

- Laying off 5 lottery funded full time staff members ($110,000 - not part of the $560,000).

They have also been asked to review the potential sale of park property.

We have a spectacular county park system used by thousands of residents and visitors. Losing this number of employees will take away years of experience that cannot be replaced. The department will become a maintenance only department operating in essentially a caretaker operation. Is this what we want? No.

Please get involved. Public comment will be accepted at the Tuesday meeting. If you cannot make this meeting, please email or write the Commissioners to let them know how you feel. Their contact information can be found at www.elpasoco.com. Getting involved will only take a small amount of time but could have a major impact.

Forward email

This email was sent to jim@..., by ellen@...

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#564

From: "Yount, Jim T." <jim.yount@...>
Date: Thu May 22, 2008 3:48 pm
Subject: Section 16 Ridge trail (White Acres/Bethany Baptist Church parcel) update

ejyount22

Offline

http://land.elpasoco.com/ScheduleDisplay.aspx?schd=7415300043

There were only 5 public comments on the White Acres parcel. All were in favor of purchasing. One comment was from Don Ellis, who submitted the application for consideration, and three were from mountainbikers. The Committee was specifically asking if any development of the parcel was acceptable, which implies that they may seek to purchase a portion of it rather than the whole thing. They also said that email comments were welcome and that they could be emailed to Chris Lieber, the TOPS Program Manager @ clieber@....

The Committee recognizes that this parcel fits right into the Section 16/Red Rock Canyon vision, that any development on the parcel would be highly visible, and that this parcel provides good connector trails to other trails to complete loops, so you may want to give them your take on these topics. The more comments they receive on this parcel the better the chance of preserving it.

Let me know if you have any questions that I might be able to help out with, and if you are unfamiliar with the parcel I’d encourage you to check it out. Just remember that it is private property and access via Gold Camp Road is blocked by a locked gate, so please respect the owner’s wishes. Here’s the link to county assessor’s parcel info. TO get a map of the parcel, click on the “parcel map” link on the upper left side (be patient, the maps can take a while to load):

Jim Yount

719-540-1505

From: medicine_wheel_PPR@yahoogroups.com [mailto:medicine_wheel_PPR@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Yount, Jim T.
Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2008 2:03 PM
To: medicine wheel
Subject: Medicine Wheel - Section 16 Ridge trail (White Acres/Bethany Baptist Church parcel)

FYI, there is developer interest in this parcel, so a show of support for preservation would go a long way towards trying to purchase as open space. The proposed development, see below, would be highly visible and pretty much wipe out all the cool trails.

“a developer is looking at this parcel for subdivision. I believe that 4-5 lots are planned for the top of the hogbacks, 21 below, plus town homes adjacent to the

road. “

Public comments will be taken during this agenda item, which is scheduled for roughly 5:15pm.

From: medicine_wheel_PPR@yahoogroups.com [mailto:medicine_wheel_PPR@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Yount, Jim T.
Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2008 10:06 AM
To: medicine wheel
Subject: Medicine Wheel - Section 16 Ridge trail (White Acres/Bethany Baptist Church parcel)

FYI, here’s some info on the White Acres parcel and it coming before the TOPS Working Committee to be considered for purchase as open space. If any of you have ridden the ridge trail up above Gold Camp Road that runs from section 16 north to the top ot the landfill in Red Rock Canyon, this is the parcel that contains it. It’s a great trail and there are many other feed trails that run between this trail and the Meadow Rock Loop that drops down to the bottom of the landfill. This would be a fantastic addition to Red Rock Canyon & Section 16.

Jim Yount

jyount@....com

719-540-1505

From: friends@redrockcanyonopenspace.org [mailto:friends@redrockcanyonopenspace.org]
Sent: Sunday, May 18, 2008 8:03 PM
Subject: White Acres

White Acres, which is owned by the Bethany Baptist Church, adjoins the south end of Red Rock Canyon Open Space and the east side of Section 16. It is between 40 and 50 acres spanning the hogbacks and is visually prominent from the east as well as from many places in Section 16. The popular informal trail which links the Lion Trail in Red Rock Canyon Open Space to Section 16 trails crosses White Acres.

The Church is now interested in selling White Acres; and an application for TOPS to acquire the property has been submitted. There will be an update on White Acres at theTOPS Working Committee meeting this Wednesday, May 21.

The update on White Acres is scheduled for 5:15 PM; and it would be a good idea to arrive earlier in case other agenda items are shorter than scheduled.

Since the property is intimately connected to Red Rock Canyon Open Space, you may wish to attend the meeting to learn more and to express your interest.

To get to the Parks Department building, take Uintah to Glen Street just east of I-25, go north a block on Glen, then go west a block on San Miguel. San Miguel bends to the north and becomes Recreation Way. The building is on the right an about a block.

AGENDA

TOPS

WORKING COMMITTEE MEETING

Wednesday, May 21, 2008

4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Parks and Recreation Department

1401 Recreation Way

Palmer Room

WHAT	WHO	WHEN
Closed Executive Session**	Committee and Staff	4:00 p.m.
Announcements Agenda Preview Approval of Minutes	Committee and Staff	4:30 p.m.
Citizen Discussion	Citizens	4:45 p.m.
Presentation on Corral Bluffs	Staff	4:55 p.m.
Update on Bethany Baptist Church Parcel	Staff	5:15 p.m.
Update on 2009 CIP Process	Staff	5:30 p.m.
Citizen Discussion	Citizens	5:50 p.m.

** To discuss land acquisition and sensitive negotiation matters.

#563

From: "Yount, Jim T." <jim.yount@...>
Date: Wed May 21, 2008 8:03 pm
Subject: Medicine Wheel - Section 16 Ridge trail (White Acres/Bethany Baptist Church parcel)

ejyount22

Offline

“a developer is looking at this parcel for subdivision. I believe that 4-5 lots are planned for the top of the hogbacks, 21 below, plus town homes adjacent to the

road. “

Public comments will be taken during this agenda item, which is scheduled for roughly 5:15pm.

Jim Yount

jyount@....com

719-540-1505

From: friends@redrockcanyonopenspace.org [mailto:friends@redrockcanyonopenspace.org]
Sent: Sunday, May 18, 2008 8:03 PM
Subject: White Acres

The update on White Acres is scheduled for 5:15 PM; and it would be a good idea to arrive earlier in case other agenda items are shorter than scheduled.

Since the property is intimately connected to Red Rock Canyon Open Space, you may wish to attend the meeting to learn more and to express your interest.

AGENDA

TOPS

WORKING COMMITTEE MEETING

Wednesday, May 21, 2008

4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Parks and Recreation Department

1401 Recreation Way

Palmer Room

WHAT	WHO	WHEN
Closed Executive Session**	Committee and Staff	4:00 p.m.
Announcements Agenda Preview Approval of Minutes	Committee and Staff	4:30 p.m.
Citizen Discussion	Citizens	4:45 p.m.
Presentation on Corral Bluffs	Staff	4:55 p.m.
Update on Bethany Baptist Church Parcel	Staff	5:15 p.m.
Update on 2009 CIP Process	Staff	5:30 p.m.
Citizen Discussion	Citizens	5:50 p.m.

** To discuss land acquisition and sensitive negotiation matters.

Reply | Forward | Messages in this Topic (3)

#562

From: "Rob Lucas" <mtnman@...>
Date: Wed May 21, 2008 4:19 pm
Subject: Re: Medicine Wheel - Section 16 Ridge trail (White Acres/Bethany Baptist Church parcel)

MtnManProfile

Offline

That is a great trail and is part of my favorite loop ride in Red Rocks.  It
would be tough for me to make the meeting.  Are other people going?


Rob
Blog: http://www.ultrarob.com/blog
Search Cycling and Outdoor Gear: http://www.ultrarob.com/shop
Cycling and Outdoor Deals: http://www.ultrarob.com/deals


------ Original Message ------
Received: Wed, 21 May 2008 10:08:49 AM MDT
From: "Yount, Jim T." <jim.yount@...>
To: "medicine wheel" <medicine_wheel_PPR@yahoogroups.com>
Subject: Medicine Wheel -  Section 16 Ridge trail (White Acres/Bethany Baptist
Church parcel)

> FYI, here's some info on the White Acres parcel and it coming before the
> TOPS Working Committee to be considered for purchase as open space.  If
> any of you have ridden the ridge trail up above Gold Camp Road that runs
> from section 16 north to the top ot the landfill in Red Rock Canyon,
> this is the parcel that contains it.  It's a great trail and there are
> many other feed trails that run between this trail and the Meadow Rock
> Loop that drops down to the bottom of the landfill.  This would be a
> fantastic addition to Red Rock Canyon & Section 16.
>
>
>
> Jim Yount
>
> jyount@... <mailto:jyount@...>
>
> 719-540-1505
>
> ________________________________
>
> From: friends@...
> [mailto:friends@...]
> Sent: Sunday, May 18, 2008 8:03 PM
> Subject: White Acres
>
>
>
> White Acres, which is owned by the Bethany Baptist Church, adjoins the
> south end of Red Rock Canyon Open Space and the east side of Section 16.
> It is between 40 and 50 acres spanning the hogbacks and is visually
> prominent from the east as well as from many places in Section 16. The
> popular informal trail which links the Lion Trail in Red Rock Canyon
> Open Space to Section 16 trails crosses White Acres.
>
>
>
> The Church is now interested in selling White Acres; and an application
> for TOPS to acquire the property has been submitted. There will be an
> update on White Acres at theTOPS Working Committee meeting this
> Wednesday, May 21.
>
>
>
> The update on White Acres is scheduled for 5:15 PM; and it would be a
> good idea to arrive earlier in case other agenda items are shorter than
> scheduled.
>
>
>
> Since the property is intimately connected to Red Rock Canyon Open
> Space, you may wish to attend the meeting to learn more and to express
> your interest.
>
>
>
> To get to the Parks Department building, take Uintah to Glen Street just
> east of I-25, go north a block on Glen, then go west a block on San
> Miguel. San Miguel bends to the north and becomes Recreation Way. The
> building is on the right an about a block.
>
> AGENDA
>
> TOPS
>
> WORKING COMMITTEE MEETING
>
> Wednesday, May 21, 2008
>
> 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
>
> Parks and Recreation Department
>
> 1401 Recreation Way
>
> Palmer Room
>
> WHAT
>
> WHO
>
> WHEN
>
> Closed Executive Session**
>
> Committee and Staff
>
> 4:00 p.m.
>
> Announcements
>
> Agenda Preview
>
> Approval of Minutes
>
>
>
> Committee and Staff
>
>
>
> 4:30 p.m.
>
> Citizen Discussion
>
> Citizens
>
> 4:45 p.m.
>
> Presentation on Corral Bluffs
>
> Staff
>
> 4:55 p.m.
>
> Update on Bethany Baptist Church Parcel
>
> Staff
>
> 5:15 p.m.
>
> Update on 2009 CIP Process
>
> Staff
>
> 5:30 p.m.
>
> Citizen Discussion
>
> Citizens
>
> 5:50 p.m.
>
>                    ** To discuss land acquisition and sensitive
> negotiation matters.
>
>

Reply | Forward | Messages in this Topic (3)

#561

From: "Yount, Jim T." <jim.yount@...>
Date: Wed May 21, 2008 4:06 pm
Subject: Section 16 Ridge trail (White Acres/Bethany Baptist Church parcel)

ejyount22

Offline

Jim Yount

719-540-1505

From: friends@... [mailto:friends@...]
Sent: Sunday, May 18, 2008 8:03 PM
Subject: White Acres

The update on White Acres is scheduled for 5:15 PM; and it would be a good idea to arrive earlier in case other agenda items are shorter than scheduled.

Since the property is intimately connected to Red Rock Canyon Open Space, you may wish to attend the meeting to learn more and to express your interest.

AGENDA

TOPS

WORKING COMMITTEE MEETING

Wednesday, May 21, 2008

4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Parks and Recreation Department

1401 Recreation Way

Palmer Room

WHAT	WHO	WHEN
Closed Executive Session**	Committee and Staff	4:00 p.m.
Announcements Agenda Preview Approval of Minutes	Committee and Staff	4:30 p.m.
Citizen Discussion	Citizens	4:45 p.m.
Presentation on Corral Bluffs	Staff	4:55 p.m.
Update on Bethany Baptist Church Parcel	Staff	5:15 p.m.
Update on 2009 CIP Process	Staff	5:30 p.m.
Citizen Discussion	Citizens	5:50 p.m.

** To discuss land acquisition and sensitive negotiation matters.

Reply | Forward | Messages in this Topic (3)

#560

From: "Yount, Jim T." <jim.yount@...>
Date: Wed May 21, 2008 3:58 pm
Subject: OHV Park Project

ejyount22

Offline

If anyone is interested in applying for the citizen committee to find a suitable location for a county OHV park, here is the information presented by Tim Wolken, Director of El Paso County Parks, at the County Parks Board meeting. If you are interested, you can contact Mr. Wolken at timwolken@.... There was a brief article about this in the Gazette as well (http://www.gazette.com/articles/county_36326___article.html/park_site.html).

Jim Yount

719-540-1505

C. OHV Park Project Citizen Committee (Wolken / Approval)

The Board of County Commissioners has requested the Park Board appoint a citizen

committee to investigate potential new sites for the proposed OHV Park. Please find

below citizens who have expressed interest in serving on the committee:

1. Ned Suesse, OHV Support Group member

2. Jackie Hilaire, Corral Bluffs resident / open space advocate

3. Keith Kolb, OHV Support Group member

4. Rudy Haberzettl, OHV Support Group member

5. Paul Stevenson, OHV Support Group member

6. John Harris, OHV Support Group member

7. Jack Bergman, OHV Support Group member

8. Lee Milner, President, Corral Bluffs Alliance / open space advocate

9. Charlie Camacho, OHV Support Group member

Please find enclosed a proposed committee description. Staff would appreciate Park Board consideration / appointments to the committee and approval of the committee description.

El Paso County Parks and Leisure Services

Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Park Site Committee

Committee Description

The OHV Park Site Committee will provide input and support to the El Paso County Parks Advisory Board and the El Paso County Parks and Leisure Services Department regarding the research and evaluation of potential sites for the proposed OHV Park.

Specific Responsibilities

Develop preferred site specifications for the proposed OHV Park.
Review potential sites in regard to the specifications in #1 and overall acceptability.
Make recommendations to staff / Park Advisory Board regarding a preferred site(s).
Provide input on financing the acquisition of the preferred site.
Provide input on the business model for the management of the proposed OHV Park.

Committee Meetings

The OHV Park Site Committee meeting schedule will be determined by the committee membership and will meet as necessary to complete committee responsibilities.

Staff Liaison

The Director of Parks and Leisure Services will serve as the staff liaison to the OHV Park Site Committee and will be responsible for the development of agendas and related meeting information, distribution of meeting notices, and general committee management.

Committee Appointments

The OHV Park Site Committee will consist of sufficient committee members to accomplish the committee’s responsibilities. Committee members will be appointed by the Park Advisory Board. The committee will remain in place until a suitable OHV Park site is determined.

TPW: OHV Committee

#559

From: Jim Schwerin <jim@...>
Date: Tue May 20, 2008 6:07 pm
Subject: Ride of Silence - This Wednesday Evening

martlet66

Offline

Dear Fellow Cyclist,
Please join me Wednesday May 21, 2008, 7pm for The Ride of Silence (www.rideofsilence.org). The ride is for cyclists especially, but also runners, and others who legally share the road are invited to join us as we bike through downtown.

Why am I doing this:
* to mourn those cyclists, runners & pedestrians already killed by motorists
* to raise awareness (among motorists, police, and city officials) of
cyclists on the road
* to have motorists know we only want to share the road we ride on
* to show that cyclists are not going away

Where are we meeting: Behind Old Town Bike Shop, 426 Tejon Street, Colorado Springs, CO 80903
Distance: 8 miles at an easy pace up and down the streets of downtown Colorado Springs.

Thanks,
Coach Charlotte

Charlotte Miller
2413 Ehrich Street
Colorado Springs, CO 80904
millercyclingworks@...
713-320-7017 cell
719-477-6779 home

#558

From: Jim Schwerin <jim@...>
Date: Fri May 16, 2008 10:49 pm
Subject: News from Trails and Open Space Coalition: County Parks, Volunteer Opportunities and Bike Month

martlet66

Offline