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Quartzsite, Arizona

Wednesday, December 29, 2010

Native American group files suit against BLM for failure to consult

Six Utility Scale Desert Solar Projects
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BLYTHE, CA. La Cuna de Aztlan Sacred Sites Protection Circle, a prestigious Native American cultural protection group, filed suit Monday in the United States District Court, Southern District of California, challenging the Bureau of Land Management permitting processes related to six large solar facilities planned for the Mohave, Sonoran and Colorado deserts of Southern California, Case No.10CV2664 WQH WVG. According to Patricia Piñon Chairperson of La Cuna's Advisory Committee, the group was joined by CARE, Californians for Renewable Energy, and 6 individual Native American plaintiffs. Piñon indicates La Cuna de Aztlan Sacred Site Protection Circle has standing to sue by virtue of meeting the definition of "Indian Tribe," according to Section 106 of the National Register of Historic Places, and by virtue of an existing Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the BLM.

According to court documents, the projects include the Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating Project (Brightsource Energy), the Blythe Solar Power Project (Chevron Energy Solutions and Solar Millenium, LLC), the Imperial Valley Solar Project (Tessera/NTR), Chevron Energy Solutions Lucerne Valley Solar Project, Calico Solar Project (Tessera/NTR), and the Genesis Project (Florida Power and Light subsidiary NextEra™). La Cuna founder Alfredo Figueroa states that cumulatively, the projects would grade and develop 23,842 acres of essentially pristine desert lands, designated as class "L" under the California Desert Conservation Area Plan. Class L (Limited Use) lands protect "natural, scenic, ecological, and cultural resource values. The lands are "managed to provide for generally lower-intensity, carefully controlled multiple use of resources, while ensuring that sensitive values are not significantly diminished." The complaint indicates that each of the projects was permitted with an "amendment" to the CDCA according to the Bureau of Land Management.

The suit follows the filing of the Quechan tribe's legal challenge to the Imperial Valley Solar Project which was granted an injunction by Judge Larry Burns on December 15, Civil Action No. '10CV2241 LAB CAB, United State District Court for the Southern District of California. Robert Lukefahr, CEO of Tessara Solar said at the time, "Tessera Solar is deeply disappointed with the federal court's ruling last night." Company press releases stated on December 9, 2010 (prior to Congress extending the time limits for ARRA, American Reinvestment and Recovery Act 30% project cash grants--at the end of the lame duck session--to December 30, 2011) parent company NTR (National Toll Roads of Ireland) had taken a "write down" of 96 million Euros. The Quechan suit further clouds the issues for investors. Now La Cuna de Aztlan's complaint and request for a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO), giving time for an injunction to be considered by the court, adds another impediment for industrial development of the desert. Following La Cuna's filing, the future of 5 additional projects is in jeopardy.

According to La Cuna de Aztlan Piñon, the pressure of the ARRA "fast track" process approved by Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar resulted in inadequate Environmental Impact Statements and inadequate government to government consultation with the tribes, under Section 106 of the National Register of Historic Places. Bill Powers of San Diego based Powers Engineering, a prominent energy engineer states, "So the Orwellian aspect of the government involvement in this process is that now instead of the analysis being focused on is this a cost effective project, is it a project that will minimize or eliminate environmental damage, is it a good investment strategically for this state, all of that is secondary for the race to get the permit so that the project can get a 30 percent cash grant. In this case -- that's $600 million up front per project. So the money is so big that it's now like a bull rush to the finish line."

The potential impacts are both environmental and cultural. Jim Andre, Ph.D. University of California Riverside botanist, and Director of the Sweeney Granite Mountains Desert Research Institute states, “Rather than be smart from the start by utilizing ecologically degraded sites first, a reckless and scientifically unmerited decision has been made to instead race into our most pristine desert and obliterate some of the most botanically significant lands in California.” With over 250 projects in application in California alone, over 2 million acres of desert would be graded if all of the projects now in application were to be approved. Dr. Andre continues, "This scale of an impact has never occurred before. When you consider the importance of these (eco) systems to provide corridors for species to move as climate changes, whether its human caused change, or just the natural course of variation in climate change, you’ve really done in the entire ecosystem at that scale."

At stake also are the region's unique and invaluable cultural resources. According to the testimony of Elizabeth A. Bagwell, Ph.D., RPA and Beverly E. Bastian before the California Energy Commission, "This analysis estimates that more than 800 sites (Cultural Resource Sites--Sacred Sites) within the I-10 corridor, and 17,000 sites within the Southern California Region will be potentially destroyed. La Cuna de Aztlan Sacred Sites Protection Circle has an agreement with the BLM to work together to protect Native American sacred sites and cultural resources.

Tuesday, December 28, 2010

ADOT Prepared as Major Winter Storm Moves Into Arizona

PHOENIX - As winter weather moves into Arizona Wednesday, the Arizona Department of Transportation is prepared for this latest storm that will bring snow and rain to much of the state, while making sure drivers have the tools and tips they need to plan their trips.

ADOT staff and plows are prepared to tackle snow and ice on interstate and state routes throughout the holiday weekend, but drivers should be prepared for temporary highway closures, quickly changing weather conditions and unpredictable roadways. I-40 and I-17 will remain the top priorities in Northern Arizona, patrolled by ADOT crews who consistently lead first responders into situations like those expected this week.

This week’s forecast calls for high winds and heavy snow – up to 20 inches – on Wednesday and Thursday, along with very cold temperatures that will lower the snow elevation significantly. ADOT is already making preparations to temporarily close a few Northern Arizona highways with little notice if the large amount of snow and ice create unsafe conditions for the traveling public.

Some of the highways likely to be closed temporarily include:
•US 180 between mileposts 236 (Kendrick Park) and 248 (Cedar Ranch)

•SR 89A between mileposts 386 (Pumphouse Wash) and 397 (Forest Highlands)

•SR 64 between mileposts 268 and 295 (east entrance to Grand Canyon National Park)

These possible closures will allow more resources to be used on the highest priority roads. ADOT’s first priority is to keep Interstates 40 and 17 clear of snow and ice and open to drivers. If blowing and drifting snow become severe, even the interstate routes may be closed, as was experienced last year.

ADOT’s first priority is public safety, and snowplowing is always a main focus during critical winter safety operations. These operations are a year-round focus for ADOT. The agency prepares by servicing equipment, training personnel and stocking up on materials. When weather hits, ADOT staff clear the snow and ice, focusing on the most critical transportation routes first. Afterwards, Transportation Department personnel repair damaged roads and equipment. It’s a continuous cycle, but one that is crucial as we work to ensure the safety and mobility of the traveling public.

Resources translate into readiness. ADOT has 395 employees who are trained snowplow operators. During winter storms, these operators typically work 12-hour shifts to keep roads clear and open. ADOT also has 196 snowplow trucks in its fleet statewide that are serviced, staffed and ready to go. In addition, Arizona is fully stocked with deicer chemicals, which include a granular product called Ice Slicer and liquid magnesium chloride. Finally, ADOT has many employees statewide who are ready to manage operations during the height of any winter storm.

While ADOT is prepared to keep the roads clear and open as we have in years past, motorists should be prepared when driving through regions prone to snowy and icy conditions. That includes becoming more familiar with safe driving tips and carrying a winter preparedness kit in your vehicle. This information can be found below and also on ADOT’s “Know Snow” Web site at www.azdot.gov/KnowSnow. The Web site also contains downloadable snow maps of snowplowing routes.

Before heading out on the roads, drivers are encouraged to call 5-1-1 or log on to ADOT’s Traveler Information Center at www.az511.gov for the latest highway conditions around the state. The Web site features images along state highways that give drivers a glimpse of weather conditions in various regions.

ADOT reminds motorists to drive with caution and offers these tips:

•Slow down. Drive defensively. Be patient and allow additional time for your trip.

•Carry snow chains or cables, in case highways are snow-packed and icy. Also be sure to pack an emergency kit in your car that includes a fully charged cell phone, extra food and water, blankets, a flashlight, extra batteries, a shovel, an ice scraper, and sand for traction.

•Leave sufficient space between your vehicle and others. Give yourself plenty of room and time to stop to avoid upcoming hazards.

•If stopped on the roadway, leave room for emergency vehicles to get around you.

•Don’t follow snowplows too closely, and do not pass them.

•Make sure your vehicle has plenty of fuel and pack extra clothing for winter weather.

•If you slide off the roadway, stay with your vehicle. ADOT or the Highway Patrol will respond.

•Check weather and road conditions before you leave. Let someone know your route.

More tips are available from the Arizona Department of Public Safety at http://www.azdps.gov/Media/News/View/?p=280.

Sunday, December 26, 2010

Quartzsite gets ready for new year of success!

Quartzsite, Arizona
is the Rock Capital of the World!
Come on down and see for yourself why!

Check out on the southwest side of Quartzsite, on W. Kuehn, where Desert Gardens is filling up with vendors. This is one show specializing in ROCKS!  Rough and tumbled stone, minerals and jewelry!

"Buy" the piece, "buy" the pound, "buy" the kilo, "buy" the pallet or how about "buy" the whole truck load?

Everywhere you go in Quartzsite, you'll find rough or polished rocks, slabs, gemstones, minerals, beads, lapidary equipment, tools and supplies, jewelry, and amazing wonders of nature for sale! While searching for your "treasures", there are many food vendors supplying delightful treats and meals all over town, along with our year round restaurants and businesses!

Wholesale buyers are on their way to Quartzsite. Visit Tyson Wells Rock and Gem Show at the corner of Hwy. 95 and W. Kuehn. The wholesale preview days for Village Originals starts Jan. 5th. Show dates for Tyson Wells Rock and Gem Show is Jan. 7 - 16, 2011.

The famous QIA Pow Wow begins on January 19, 2011 with over 400 spaces!

Here are the shows and events for the upcoming season:

TYSON WELLS MARKET SQUARE
Oct 1, 2009 - March 30, 2011

QUARTZSITE SHOWGROUNDS
Oct. 1, 2010 - April 31, 2011

Annual RICE RANCH “Yawl Come” SHOW
Nov 1, 2009 - Feb 28, 2010

MAIN STREET TRADERS OPEN YEAR ROUND
Nov 1, 2010 - Feb 28, 2011

HI ALI SWAPMEET
Nov 1, 2010 - Mar 28, 2011

MARKET PLACE SHOWGROUNDS
Nov 1, 2010 - Feb 28, 2011

PROSPECTOR’S PANORAMA
Nov 1, 2010 - Feb 28, 2011

GREASEWOOD SWAP
Nov. 1, 2010 - April 1 2011

DESERT GARDENS ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL GEM, MINERAL & JEWELRY SHOW
Jan. 1, 2011 - Feb. 28, 2011

THE MAIN EVENT
Jan. 8, 2011 - Jan. 23, 2011

ANNUAL HI JOLLY DAZE PARADE
Jan. 8, 2011 ends at Town Park
TYSON WELLS ROCK & GEM SHOW
Jan. 7 - Jan. 16, 2011

TYSON WELLS SELL-A-RAMA
Jan. 21 - Jan. 30, 2011

45th ANNUAL Q I. A. POW WOW
Jan. 19 - Jan. 23, 2011

BIG TENT SPORTS, VACATION & R.V. SHOW
Jan. 22 - Jan. 30, 2011

ART GUILD ART SHOW
Jan. 28 - 29, 2011

BIG TENT HOBBY CRAFT & GEM SHOW
Feb. 2 - Feb. 6, 2011

TYSON WELLS ARTS & CRAFTS FAIR
Feb. 4 - Feb. 13, 2011

BIG TENT CLASSIC CAR SHOW
Feb. 5 - Feb. 6, 2011

5th ANNUAL WILLPOWER/PAWPOWER ATV PARADE
AND ARIZONA CENTENNIAL KICKOFF
Feb. 12, 2011, Quartzsite Town Park

QUARTZSITE QUILTERS QUILT SHOW
Feb. 11 & 12, 2011 Senior Center

QUARTZSITE MASTERS TUFF GOLF- TBA

QUARTZSITE CHILI COOK-OFF
Feb. 26, 2011 Town Park

ROCKIN’ IN QUARTZSITE!
Rock Auction March 5, 2011

Thursday, December 23, 2010

Jedidiah Free comments on new Quartzsite paper

This Town Ain't Big Enough
For the Two of Us, Pahdnah.


by Jedidiah Free
Normally, I write about the peace and beauty of the desert, and the interesting things to do here in Quartzsite. Occasionally I write about the people and businesses that make our town exciting. I typically stay out of politics and the public forum as much as possible, but once in a while a topic arises that I cannot, in good conscience, remain quiet about, like my article last April about the closing of the State Parks here in Arizona. Today happens to be another one of those times.

There is a bully here in Quartzsite. I know about bullies. I grew up in a rough Jewish/Italian inner city neighborhood in Philadelphia, during the 70’s and 80’s when desegregation of schools was taking place. In my neighborhood, when a bully showed up, he didn’t last long. We were tough and not easily intimidated. We stood up for ourselves and each other. Even kids who weren’t friends beforehand banded together to fight a bully. If a new kid decided to be a bully or step on someone’s turf, he’d better be sure of the group dynamics of the neighborhood before he started something. That small, wimpy kid on the block could have a loyal gang of twenty brutes ready to back him up in the blink of an eye.

Several months ago the Desert Messenger ran an article about bullying. I wonder if the editor of the brand new “newspaper”, the Desert Free Press, whose name I could mention, but won’t, read that article. The Desert Free Press has decided to bully its way into this community and try to stir things up. The challenge has been thrown, and the line has been crossed. Words have been printed and tactics have been used to cause people to choose a side. I have made my choice. I choose to leave the peace and quiet of the desert, metaphorically speaking, and come to the defense of my friends, some of whom have been personally attacked by this bully.
I believe strongly in a free press, but I also understand that with freedom comes responsibility. There is a fine line between free speech and slander, between fact and opinion, between reporting and ranting and raving, between citizen advocacy and personal vendettas. Both the New York Times and the National Enquirer consider themselves newspapers, but that does not mean their quality or content are equal. I could go on a rampage and take some cheap shots at this bully, but I refuse to lower myself to that level. I prefer to look bullies in the face and call things as I see them. I will, instead, let the readers choose.

The people of Quartzsite, the vendors, and the winter visitors, are intelligent, discerning citizens. We know solid decent journalism when we read it. When citizens participate in town hall meetings, ask questions, and get involved in the community, the distinction between truth and lie becomes obvious. Hearsay becomes just juicy gossip without any solid foundation. Discrepancies, distortions to the facts, and half-truths can be discerned. Armed with truth, we, the people of Quartzsite, both permanent and temporary, can decide who our friends are and who the ranting and raving bully in the community is.

In the Wild West, gun battles on Main Street were common to run a bully out of town. In my neighborhood in Philly we settled alot out in the street, too. Many times the bully showed up only to find the fight was way bigger than he expected, and had to make a hasty retreat. This winter, in Quartzsite, a bully has appeared and is trying to mess with us by dragging us into a childish game of name-calling, propaganda, cheap shots, and gossip. It will end quickly if we band together and stand up to this bully. Let’s show this bully what this town, our neighborhood, is made of. One thing about bullies is that deep down inside they are cowards. They try to get their way by bluffing their way through with scare tactics, manipulation, and tricks. They try to appear bigger and tougher than they really are. But they are cowards, and they only win when the object of their bullying allows them to win.

We didn’t start this fight. But we can finish it. So let’s look this in the eye and call it as it is. A turf-war. A bullying situation. A barrage of propaganda and manipulative half-truths. And let’s stand up for each other, join forces, and show this bully that she won’t win. Let’s show her what were made of. Let’s do it now and get it over with, so we can just get on with the business of the town and the season. And so I can get out of politics and the public forum, and go back to my peace and quiet out in the desert.

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Quartzsite Chili Cookoff planned for February 26th

Quartzsite, AZ - Rumors buzzed around town, after incomplete information was printed in a new publication about the Annual Chili Cook Off.

Quartzsite Town Council Member, Jerry Lukkasson, explained at the Town Hall meeting yesterday that the Quartzsite Chili Cookoff is still on...keeping the same date of Saturday, February 26, 2011, with a new look and new venue! The Quartzsite Business Chamber of Commerce had cancelled their annual "It's Chili in Quartzsite" when challenges arose with the La Paz County Health Department.

The Arizona Centennial Committee of Quartzsite will sponsor the Cook Off this year, with cooperation from the Business Chamber. The Quartzsite Chili Cookoff will take place at the Town Park, on N. Plymouth. Lukkasson expressed his hopes that the new "Snack Shack" at the park would be completed by then, to help with issues raised by the health department.

So get your favorite chili recipies ready and plan on a wonderful family event at the park on Saturday, February 26th!

Watch for more information in the next issue of the Desert Messenger on Wed. Jan. 5, 2011.

For more information, contact 928-308-0011.

Friday, December 17, 2010

AZ Health Dept. releases first draft of Medical Marijuana Rules

The Arizona Department of Health Services announced their draft of rules for Medical Marijuana Program. Proposition 203 was passed in November by Arizona voters.

Here's a couple of highlights:

Debilitating Medical Conditions


An individual applying for a qualifying patient registry identification card shall have a diagnosis from a physician of at least one of the following conditions:

1. Cancer;

2. Glaucoma;

3. Human immunodeficiency virus;

4. Acquired immune deficiency syndrome;

5. Hepatitis C;

6. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis;

7. Crohn's disease;

8. A chronic or debilitating disease or medical condition or the treatment for a chronic or debilitating disease or medical condition that causes cachexia or wasting syndrome;

9. A chronic or debilitating disease or medical condition or the treatment for a chronic or debilitating disease or medical condition that causes severe and chronic pain;

10. A chronic or debilitating disease or medical condition or the treatment for a chronic or debilitating disease or medical condition that causes severe nausea;

11. A chronic or debilitating disease or medical condition or the treatment for a chronic or debilitating disease or medical condition that causes seizures, including those characteristic of epilepsy;

12. A chronic or debilitating disease or medical condition or the treatment for a chronic or debilitating disease or medical condition that causes severe or persistent muscle spasms, including those characteristic of multiple sclerosis; or

13. A debilitating medical condition or treatment approved by the Department under A.R.S. § 36-2801.01 and R9-17-106.
 
 


To qualify for a dispensary, there are some important guildelines, some of which are:

Dispensary owners must be AZ residents for past 2yrs. Principal officer and board members.

Application fee for Dispensary $5000, Patient $150, Caregiver $200

No unpaid Judgements to goverment agencies (student loans etc, no missed child support etc)

Must provide remote access to computer system and unannounced inspections

Provide video cameras in dispensary and growing areas

Must cultivate 70% of your own medicine

Must offer education and support to patients

Food products must contain warning labels

If you are a Dispensary owner you can not use Medical Marijuana unless you are also a patient.

For the full rough draft of the new rules visit:


http://www.azdhs.gov/prop203/documents/Medical-Marijuana-Draft-Rules.pdf

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Quartzsite Town Council meeting tonight and new look at Town Hall

The next time you attend a Town Council meeting, you’ll notice there’s been a change in the furniture arrangement.

It has a more formal appearance with the addition of a new wood wall designed specifically for the chambers, and a center aisle. The podium is now facing the council, as a reminder that when one speaks, they are to address the council, not the public. Quartzsite Town Manager, Alex Taft, said. "it’s beautifully designed and can be easily moved for other town functions."

Friday, December 10, 2010

Could Quartzsite Mayor Ed Foster be censured AGAIN?

The agenda for regular meeting of the Quartzsite Town Council
of Tuesday, December 14 is now online. 

Item 121410 – 6, the last on the agenda, states 
"Discussion and possible action to censure Mayor Foster"
submitted by Council Member Joe Winslow. 


Use the link below for the full agenda. Remember, the PDF will take awhile downloading.

http://www.ci.quartzsite.az.us/wp-content/uploads/2008/121410%20agenda.pdf

Friday, December 3, 2010

Quartzsite Christmas Light Parade Saturday 7pm

Christmas Light Parade this weekend!!!


Don't forget to get some warm clothes on and come on out and enjoy the 8th annual Christmas Electric Light Parade this coming Saturday, Dec. 4!! The parade starts at Mesquite St (just east of La Mesa Rv) and goes

east on Main Street to Plymouth Road, where it turns left and and goes north on Plymouth Rd. to Town Hall. There is still time to enter a float or decorated vehicle but you must have your entries in by Thursday Dec. 2 to be included. Numbers for the entries will be given out at the Business Chamber office on Friday, Dec. 3 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. No entry will be allowed in without signing up and getting their number. Refreshments and awards will be given out at Town Hall after the parade. Get into the Christmas spirit and join in the fun!!

ADOT travel alert for the high country


Travel Alert:
Winter season brings annual highway closures

PHOENIX—As the snow begins to fall around Arizona and the winter driving season begins, the Arizona Department of Transportation is closing a few roadways in the higher elevations. These closures take effect every year due to the large accumulations of snow and ice on the highways—roads that see very little traffic.

ADOT has closed State Route 473 to Hawley Lake for the winter. State Route 261 between State Route 260 and Big Lake and State Route 273 between Sunrise Park and Big Lake will both be closed on Wednesday, Dec. 15. All three highways are located northeast of Show Low in the White Mountains, near Sunrise Park Resort. These annual closures do not affect access to Sunrise.

Also closed for the winter is State Route 67 between Jacob Lake and the North Rim of the Grand Canyon.

ADOT closes these highways each winter and reopens them in the spring, usually by mid-May. However, there is the potential for temporary unscheduled highway closures due to severe winter weather, large accumulations of snow and ice, or unsafe driving conditions.

ADOT reminds motorists to drive with caution this winter and offers these tips:

•Slow down. Drive defensively. Be patient and allow additional time for your trip.
•Carry snow chains or cables, in case highways are snow-packed an d icy. Also be sure to pack an emergency kit in your car that includes a fully charged cell phone, extra food and water, blankets, a flashlight, extra batteries, a shovel, an ice scraper, and sand for traction.
•Leave sufficient space between your vehicle and others. Give yourself plenty of room and time to stop to avoid upcoming hazards.
•If stopped on the roadway, leave room for emergency vehicles to get around you.
•Don’t follow snowplows too closely, and do not pass them.
•Make sure your vehicle has plenty of fuel and pack extra clothing for winter weather. If you slide off the roadway, stay with your vehicle. ADOT or the Arizona Department of Public Safety will respond.
•Check weather and road conditions before you leave. Let someone know your route.

More travel tips and information can be found on ADOT’s “Know Snow” website at www.azdot.gov/KnowSnow. The website also contains downloadable snow maps of snowplowing schedules and routes.

Before heading out on the roads, drivers are encouraged to call 5-1-1 or log on to ADOT’s Traveler Information Center at www.az511.gov for the latest highway conditions around the state. The website features images along state highways that give drivers a glimpse of weather conditions in various regions.

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