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TheSATURDAY, JULY 18, 2015Inyo | INYOREGISTER.COM | SERVING THERegister EASTERN SIERRA AND BEYOND SINCE 1870 | 75¢ Eastside mourns James Wilson Entrepreneur, activist, community supporter dies at 67

By Darcy Ellis Managing Editor

The thoughtful and unassuming aren’t generally known for making the history books, nor are they usually the ones whose exploits become legacy. James Wilson is a notable exception – a man whose name may forever be synonymous with both Eastside recreation and conservation efforts, simply because he followed his passions, stuck to his principles and saw the wisdom in thinking ahead. Thus it was a huge, collective loss and crushing blow when Wilson died Wednesday at Renown Hospital in Reno. He had suffered a stroke over the weekend and never regained con- sciousness. The longtime Bishop resident and former business owner leaves behind his beloved wife, Kay, daughter, Roseanne, son-in-law, Bay, and grandson, Ansel. He was 67. At the time of his death, Wilson was a member of the Rotary Club of Bishop, where he was chairman of the International Service Committee; the Eastern Sierra chapter of the Audubon Society, which he helped found in 1983; and a board member of Friends of the Inyo, which he co-founded in 1986. Wilson was a former longtime member of the California Wilderness Coalition and past member of the Bishop Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Eulogies honoring Wilson and his contributions to the mountain sports culture, economy and environmental health of the Eastside are widespread in the wake of his death, and the grief being expressed is profound. His passing comes not just as a shock to the close-knit Eastside community, but a punch in the gut; Wilson was a friend, mentor and role model to many who admire him for his honesty, loyalty, generosity, steadfastness, sly humor and grace. “James was my brother in every sense of the word other than by blood,” said decades’ long friend and confidante Barbara Kelley, who also worked with Wilson on the Friends of the Inyo board. “He’s everything good anyone can say about James Wilson (l), a co-founder of Friends of the Inyo, mingles with tion to being longtime friends, Wilson, Vocelka and Kelley helped him.” good friend Barbara Kelley and her husband Derrick Vocelka at the form the Eastern Sierra Friends of Machik in 2005. See WILSON  Page 8 2014 open house of FOI’s offices on Barlow Lane in Bishop. In addi- Photo by Mike Gervais NIH warned about liability Residents balk at District CEO says law in this matter do you understand what will happen proposed 15-home union is out for next?” Dr. Eric Richman asked during a board meeting at the money, not the Tallman Pavilion at the Tri- care for County Fairgrounds. “This development issue will go to arbitration. In community other words, you and your Homes would be od for the proposed project expensive CEO (Victoria will now end on Aug. 15. By Terrance Vestal Alexander-Lane) will have no built on 2.75 “Comments will be Associate Editor say in the outcome. That reviewed and where appropri- could potentially be very acres where ate, incorporated into the A local doctor said expensive – and that would Bishop Nursery document,” Planning Director Wednesday that if Northern not be the fault of the union, Gary Schley said. A second Inyo Hospital’s administra- but this board’s inability to currently sits public hearing for the project tion continues to drag its negotiate.” will be held during the Aug. heels on important negotiat- Registered nurses, nurse By Kristina Blüm 10 council meeting. The ini- ing points with the nurses’ practitioners and physician Register Correspondent tial environmental evaluation union, it could lead to a cost- assistants at NIH organized a will be voted upon during the ly outcome even as the union as part of the American During Monday’s meeting council’s Aug. 24 meeting. administration hopes to pay Federation of State, County, of the Bishop City Council, The tract map would then go down the entity’s expenses. and Municipal Employees, Denise Hayden, Victoria Alexander-Lane, residents of Rome Drive and to the Planning Commission, “If you continue to ignore which was certified by the NIH Board of Directors Northern Inyo Hospital Home Street, as well as a cur- tentatively scheduled for Aug. your responsibility and the state of California in March. Vice President CEO rent employee of the Bishop 25. Since February, the move Nursery, spoke in protest of John Carlson has been a to form the union and policy Tentative Tract Map 250. Rome Drive property owner INDEX changes at the hospital have Known as the Kingston for 35 years. He said, “We Calendar ...... 12 Mtn. Report .... 15 led to some heated board Subdivision, this project never received any notifica- Classifieds ...... 16 Obituaries ...... 2 meetings. would include the removal of tion about the project. There Faces ...... 9 TV Listings...... 12 In an apparent move to the Bishop Nursery facility was something posted on the History ...... 14 Weather ...... 2 head off any heated confron- and construction of 15 new street sign next to the lost cat tations at Wednesday’s meet- homes on what is now the sign. Why weren’t we noti- QUOTE OF THE DAY ing, board Vice President nursery property. fied?” Carlson went on to Denise Hayden, who chaired Due to the public’s question the proposed proj- “From what we the meeting in board response, the city has extend- ect’s 36-foot-wide street. President MC Hubbard’s ed the public comment peri- “This street looks like it get, we can make absence, told members of the od, which was scheduled to would be problematic for a living; what we public in the audience “this is close Monday. Mayor Pat emergency vehicles or park- not a town hall meeting.” Gardner said, “After recom- ing,” he said. give, however, “This is a business meet- mendations from city staff, Terry Tye, another resi- makes a life” ing,” Hayden said. “We want we are extending the public dent of Rome Drive, brought to hear from you but we can’t comment period for another a 2.5-page long statement on – Arthur Ashe respond to your concerns.” 30 days, to allow more time behalf of himself and his Those who spoke during for public comment, to allow neighbors, raising concerns Copyright ©2015 the public comment period of people to contact city staff about the project’s impact on Horizon Publications, Inc. the meeting would be held to Dr. Eric Richman, Randy Short, and ask questions and get the environment and the lives Vol. 145, Issue 86 See NIH  Page 5 Private Citizen Private Citizen answers.” The comment peri- See PROJECT  Page 3 The Inyo Register

OPINIONSATURDAY, JULY 18, 2015 4 RENA MLODECKI Publisher | DARCY ELLIS Editor Political cartoons published in this newspaper – as with letters to the editor and op-eds – do not necessarily reflect the opinions of The Inyo Register, its employ- under the Act of March 3, 1876. Combining Inyo Register, founded 1883; Inyo Independent and Owens Valley Progress-Citizen, founded 1870; and the Sierra Daily News. ees or its parent company. These cartoons are merely intended to present food-for-thought in a different medium. The Inyo Register (ISSN 1095-5089) Published All contents are the property of Horizon California Publications Inc. and cannot be reproduced in any way without the written consent of publisher. Postmaster: Send tri-weekly by Horizon California Publications Inc., 1180 N. Main Street, Ste. 108, Bishop, CA 93514. Entered as a Paid Periodical at the office of Bishop, California 93514, address changes to The Inyo Register, 1180 N. Main Street, Ste. 108, Bishop, CA 93514. Phone (760) 873-3535. Fax (760) 873-3591

Significant Details Inyo sagebrush, Sierra Sherpa and other peak investments

Since I have had a subscription to BusinessWeek magazine since 1987, I feel more than qualified to hand out investment advice. This is advice everyone can use, since the economy is roaring along and gen- erating all sorts of “extra” money for thousands of folks. Proof? You want proof? Simple. Look at the thundering herd of presidential candidates. There are, what, at least 20 of them, and all of them have raised multiple millions of dollars for their campaigns. That is a sure sign that there is excess cash in the system people are willing to throw away, er, invest. Any chump can suggest sure-fire investment “opportunities” guaranteed to generate chump change. Example: Investing in Chinese cigarettes, booze, asbestos mines, lead paint factories and nuclear power plants is like getting a license to print money. The real trick, however, is sorting out the win- ners from the losers. That’s why I am presenting, JON KLUSMIRE as a public service, advice on get-rich-quick OPINION schemes to avoid like the plague, or a slick- haired presidential candidate. Topping the list are plans to provide something no one needs. Those include Saudi Arabian sand factories, Kentucky bluegrass turf farms in Los Angeles, a Politeness and Niceness Academy in Canada, and Sierra sagebrush farms in Inyo County. Some investment ideas sound good at first blush, then start to fade when the larger, societal reality sets in (like a newly minted presiden- tial candidate). Example: Sparkle, the new, glossy magazine for the 21st century teenage girl, with in-depth articles, celebrity gossip and a postcard in every issue, distributed only in libraries and museums. Example 2: The Chummer, a bigger, heavier, slower version of the Hummer, powered by a 12-cylinder engine, comes with a 10 percent share in a fracked oil well. Note: Smog check could be a challenge. Other ideas sound good until you read the fine print. Here’s one you might have heard of: Own your own gold mine!!! This is a sure-fire winner. Buy up all the old, abandoned mining claims LETTERS AND TOP OF THE MORNING POLICY for the Hole In The Ground With A Liar On Top Gold Mine and start digging for riches.* *Mine is located in a Wilderness Area sacred to Native Americans in • Limit for letters is 500 words; ber will not be published.) • Writers must refrain from libel- a listed habitat area for Sierra Bighorn Sheep, two endangered frogs for Top of the Morning, 1,000 • Anonymous submissions and ous, slanderous and derogatory and six endangered plants. Note: Permitting could be a challenge. words. pseudonyms are not permitted. content. Good bets, on the other hand, play into a willingness to spend • Submission must be original and • Inyo County writers and local • Pieces may be edited for content. money for an accomplishment, or exploit gullibility and misplaced not published in any other print topics are given priority. • The Inyo Register reserves the hopes. and/or online media. We will not • Top of the Morning writers right to reject any submission. Paying for an accomplishment: Sierra Sherpa Service 14er Club. print letters also submitted to should include a one- or two-line • Email letters or Top of the We’ll haul your lazy butt to the top of a Sierra 14er. Really. Our guides other local media for publica- bio and recent color photo. Morning submissions to editor@ will carry you piggyback to the top of a 14,000-foot peak. We’ll even tion. • Emailed and typed submissions inyoregister.com or mail to: snap a selfie for you. Costs just $14,000 a peak. • Writer must include a daytime are preferred. Editor, The Inyo Register, 1180 Exploiting the gullible: Ground floor opportunity to own a Los phone number for confirmation • Writers may submit one item N. Main St., Ste. 108, Bishop, CA Angeles NFL Team Gear and Memorabilia store. Three potential teams: of authorship and town. (Num- during a one-week period. 93514 The Chargers, the Raiders and Bitter Disappointment. Note: Bitter Disappointment gear is also appropriate for L.A. Dodgers fans. Finally, the ultimate get-rich-quick scheme: Become a presidential candidate, set up a web page for donations and watch fools part with IN APPRECIATION their money. (Jon Klusmire of Bishop didn’t say he actually reads BusinessWeek.) Mother grateful class that Helena was in school spiritually, mentally, emotionally with here at BUHS; all of you were and physically, so that we can for community’s freshman when she was a senior. begin to make those lifestyle To some that didn’t know her at changes, for the healing process LETTERS TO THE EDITOR support first she may have been intimidat- to take place. ing, but once you knew her you “Our ability to cope and deal My family and I would like to quickly learned that she was full with life’s situations and struggles Let’s exchange idea food, medical and other insurance, thank local individuals and busi- of laughter, with crazy humor, are taught to us from our grand- taxes, etc.) so as to not exaggerate nesses Alex Printing, Bishop Meat and a good friend. Helena as a parents, parents and other rela- respectfully instead my point. The remaining amount House, Curt and Kelly Van Nest, fun-loving beautiful girl, her heart tions that have suffered through for the $10/hour family was $266/ Brown’s Supply, The Bishop was kind and giving. Helena was that trauma that took place years of making blanket month; for the $15/hour family it Fatherhood Group, Chris Garcia, also very proud, proud of who she and generations back and most was $1,750 per month. This would Earleen Bever, The Timbisha was and where she came from. A often leads to alcohol and drugs judgments cover things like school supplies, Shoshone Tribe and all the other member of the Bishop Paiute Tribe as a powerful escape. I myself car repairs or the purchase of a individuals that were a part of and decedent of the Timbisha never understood that until after This is in response to the letter newer car, an occasional outing, helping make our Annual Memorial Shoshone Tribe, Helena loved to I buried my daughter. Had I under- titled “How Is a Higher Minimum church donations and furniture. Tournment and fundraising be ‘NDN.’ With that pride, I taught stood this trauma like I under- Wage Good for America?” pub- Let’s keep in mind, too, that the events a success and for the con- Helena to always be a good per- stand it now, I could have changed lished on July 9. cost of living keeps rising while tinued encouragement that I son, to never give up and to my own thinking and way of liv- Let’s start with the opening wages have stagnated. The parents receive in the community. We always walk with integrity and ing, as I myself when I was statement, which includes the tell- earning $10/hour would be hard would especially like to thank the respect. Helena was the type of younger often turned to drinking ing phrase “I believe.” It alerts read- pressed to make ends meet. 14 teams that participated in the girl who could change your day. and using drugs not always to ers to the possibility that what fol- It would be productive if we Memorial Tournament: Just NDNs, Her smile and laugh was conta- have ‘fun’ but to cope or escape lows may not be based on facts. exchange ideas respectfully instead Hot Diggity Dogs, Reds, BSers, gious. She not only helped anyone some struggle that I was up Indeed, the letter is riddled with of making blanket judgments about Red Tails, Stewarts Village, Newes, who needed her but she truly was against. In turn with that under- personal opinions and speculation, liberals or conservatives. If we Chuckawallees, Fatherhood, someone you could count on. To standing I could have brought while at the same time demanding approach our country’s problems Jokers, Bad Company, Whitehawks know her was to love her and you different teachings and better that “the liberal Democrats” “show with an open heart we might be and HRS. always felt the warmth of her opportunities for Helena. me the numbers to prove” a point surprised at the many points on As a mother who lost my heart through her hugs. She left “It is our hope and goal to about the minimum wage. The top- which we agree. Instead of pointing daughter in such a tragic way I us way too soon but her memo- reach the young people within our ics addressed by the writer are so fingers let’s work together on solu- will always try to give back to the ries, her ways, her spirit live on in Native American Community and complex that the major economists tions. community by being open about each and every one of us. give them an understanding of can’t agree on their causes and Sincerely, my grief and share the story of “Some may ask why I choose this trauma, so that they can solutions. Even so, a minimum Stephanie Sheltz my loss to infect truth in our the Topic of Historical Trauma in move forward and not be held effort to back up his opinions Bishop youth of the dangers that can Native Americans for our scholar- back by the excuse of it any lon- would have shown that the writer happen with bad choices. I would ship essay question? What I have ger. So that they understand why was serious and not just ranting. like to share the presentation learned and what they don’t teach things happen within their fami- The letter refers to “the illegals” Credit where speech that I read at the Bishop or talk about in any high school lies and community and with that who the writer sees as taking away High Scholarship Night to award classroom is that there are multi- understanding they can rise above jobs from high school and college it’s due this year’s individuals. Any indi- ple periods of emotional and spir- and make good choices and break students. He doesn’t mention the viduals or business that would itual trauma in Native American free from the oppression that huge problem caused by American The July 2, 2015 letter to the edi- like to contribute to the scholar- History that has led to the many holds our people back. We ask and multi-national corporations tor from mistakenly gave the Bishop ship fund is welcome to at any problems in Native American that you each take Helena with that send jobs overseas, enriching Lions Club credit for the student time. The Helena Ray Spratt communities including ours, you and carry her in your memo- the 1 Percent at the expense of exchange program that the author’s Memorial Fund is set up at Alta Problems such as suicide, unem- ry, let her guide you to be proud American workers. granddaughter was involved in. One Credit Union in Bishop. ployment, drug and alcohol abuse, of who you are and where you I did some basic calculations That foreign exchange program is poverty and school dropout. The come from and to always be care- comparing earnings and expenses administered by the Rotary Clubs. “Hi my name is Tennille Torres. effect of trauma is passed from ful and think about your choices. for two families of three with both His granddaughter, Barbara, is First myself and on behalf of my one generation to the next, when “At this time it is with great parents working full time. One set from Austria and she gave a terrific family we would like to congratu- people are traumatized they pass honor and respect that we award of parents earned $10/hour each, presentation to the Bishop Lions late the Graduating Class of 2015. it on. the Second Helena Ray Spratt the other $15/hour each. The esti- Club about the wonderful experi- We are here tonight to present the “There is a certain pride that Scholarship to three individuals: mates were purposely low (for ence she has had in America. This Second Annual Helena Ray Spratt comes with being Native American Troy Watterson, Ruby Manuelito example $115 per week for food) apparently led to the confusion. Memorial Scholarship. As some of that some may not understand. and to a young man who lost his and only the barest minimum Mike Johnston you may remember, Helena she Understanding historical trauma cousin who was more like a sister, expenses were included (housing, Bishop was a 2012 BUHS graduate and and the challenges that we face who made it through the strug- sadly just 107 days after her today and that our parents, grand- gles and was successful, Ryan graduation she passed away acci- parents and great-grandparents Lent Jr.” Get the news. Get the story. dentally due to a bad choice of faced in the past helps define that Again, a heartfelt thank you to inducing a lethal cocktail of alco- pride and helps to recognize that my community. The Inyo Register hol and prescription drugs. there’s got to be a way that we can Tennille Torres www.inyoregister.com “This Class of 2015 is the last begin to change our thinking, Bishop 8 SATURDAY, JULY 18, 2015 The Inyo Register WILSON Continued from front page “He was an incomparable col- One of the things being league, mentor, leader, some- said is that, in his own under- times father figure and above stated way, Wilson made all the ultimate local champi- Bishop and the Eastern Sierra on for all things wild on the a better place to live and visit. Eastside. Our family of staff The Businessman and board is small and Wilson is known across the close. James’ absence leaves a country, and globe, as long- gaping crevasse in our hearts time owner of Wilson’s as well as our leadership. Our Eastside Sports on Main Street lives at FOI will, of course, go in Bishop, a mecca for enthu- on but all of as well as our siasts of outdoor sports once members and supporters will considered on the fringe but miss him in ways yet which now dominate the unknown.” scene, thanks in large part to As a member of both the foresight of entrepreneurs Friends of the Inyo and the like Wilson. California Wilderness He started out in 1977 Coalition, Wilson advocated with partner Rick Wheeler and for and helped pass legisla- a boot repair shop they called tion for additional wilderness Wheeler & Wilson. The store in the Eastern Sierra in 2002. evolved over time to Wilson’s “This is a huge loss to Eastside Sports and the shoe Eastside activism for the envi- repair portion was purchased ronment,” climber and author in 1999 by Tony Puppo, Doug Robinson wrote whose Rubber Room endures Thursday on the supertopo. to this day. com climbing forum. “I have Wilson’s was the first full- always felt humbled and The Collaborative Action Team, comprised of concerned citizens 2009. James Wilson (back row, center, black vest) was among serve sporting goods store in inspired by how active and and representatives of several community groups and the Board of those lending his talents to the much-heralded cooperative effort Bishop, and probably all of engaged – and downright Supervisors, developed Alternative 6 of the Travel Management that has since been used a nationwide model. Inyo County, that didn’t carry effective! – James Wilson was a single jar of fish bait – of at pouring his entire life into Plan, which the U.S. Forest Service modified and adopted back in File photo which Wilson was both strengthening the hold that amused and proud, said Dave the remaining wild places said ICA Executive Director del Fuego and last year trav- Patterson, executive director have on our overcivilized Lynn Cooper. eled with Michael and Nancy of the Bishop Chamber of planet.” Wilson’s contributions to Prather to Thailand. Commerce in the early 2000s. Wilson also spent 10 years the ICA total upwards of When not birding, he was Instead, Wilson’s catered to a on an effort that resulted in $100,000, but according to either gardening – trying to different clientele, men and the first desert preservation Cooper, his faith in the grow that perfect melon or women following their wan- bill, the California Desert Millpond Music Festival was tomato, Prather said – or hik- derlust into the great out- Protection Act of 1994 that invaluable. ing with Kay. doors to hike, bike, run, walk, expanded Death Valley It’s impossible to calculate “He could name the peaks climb and explore. National Park. how much Wilson and his from Lone Pine to Lee Vining “James always called it self- Just last year, Wilson was wife contributed to various and could tell you their height propelled recreation,” close among the prominent citizens other organizations, charities – and he probably climbed friend and fellow Friends of who spoke out against the Los and fundraisers over the most of them,” Van Tassell the Inyo co-founder Mike Angeles Department of Water years. said. “And there probably is Prather said. and Power’s proposed solar “James loved the Eastern not a trail in Inyo or Mono According to Prather, ranch east of Manzanar James Wilson behind the counter of world famous Wilson’s Sierra and did anything he counties that he and Kay have Wilson blazed the trail locally National Historic Site. Eastside Sports, the first full-service sporting goods store in the could to help promote or sup- not utilized.” for businesses devoted to this This past June, he wrote a Eastern Sierra that catered to hikers, climbers and runners. port organizations in the According to Van Tassell, type of recreation, and he did letter to the editor in which he File photo Eastern Sierra or activities in what Wilson looked forward it at a time when hikers and encouraged residents to the Eastern Sierra,” Van to most was being able to backpackers were disparaged attend an open house hosted Tassell said. watch grandson Ansel grow as “treehuggers” and “dirty by the Forest Service to Much of his philanthropic up, which is what makes his hippies” by a very rural, very update the public on a man- efforts were through Wilson’s death a true tragedy. conservative community, dated effort it has undertaken Eastside Sports and Eastside “He was ecstatic about his instead of respected as any to inventory possible addi- Sports, Inc., but for the past new grandchild,” Van Tassell other coffer-contributing tour- tions to wilderness areas. 15 years or so, Wilson has said. ist. He wrote: “As California also been serving the commu- The Friend But Wilson, running a suc- continues down the path of nity with the Rotary Club of For all his many qualities cessful business that drew rampant population growth Bishop. and contributions, in the end, visitors to the area, demanded and sprawling, increasingly This community service, Wilson is being remembered the respect of his peers and complete development across according to Van Tassell, who as a true friend to a lot of he got it, Prather said. our landscapes, the wild lands brought Wilson aboard, has people whose hearts are bro- “James was a tremendous of the Eastern Sierra become ranged from handing out des- ken. business man and he worked more and more valuable; to serts to students being hon- “He had so many friends, incredibly hard,” he said. our local economy, for visitors ored at the high school to he was such an amazing per- During the early 2000s he seeking places that are serving lunch at the local son,” Prather said. “He was was elected to the Chamber unpaved and quiet, and to our soup kitchen each week. such a rich person intellectu- Board of Directors, and collective souls, which need But his passion and prima- ally. It was to great to be Patterson tried to get him to unspoiled and peaceful places ry focus in Rotary were the around him, you could talk to serve as president. Wilson to recreate and restore our- international projects, such as him about anything.” declined but was able to help selves. And wild unroaded Wilson showing a silly side over some dumplings in Taipei with his helping to establish schools in Wilson also had a sense of represent a growing segment country is priceless for our Tibet, sending books to and humor that was as “dry as the of the Bishop population and wildlife, water and cultural wife, Kay, and good friends Mike and Nancy Prather during a 2014 making water available in vil- desert,” he said. its business interests along resources. Quite frankly birding trip to Thailand. lages in Africa and, most “ … I always loved his play- with the rest of the communi- whether you are a fisherper- Photo courtesy Mike Prather recently, sending the ful, wry and subtle sense of ty. son, hunter, hiker, birdwatch- Mammoth Medical Missions humor,” Robinson wrote on “When he was on the er, the blank spot on the map give from either or all sides – said. team to Chiapis, Mexico to supertopo.com. “Sometimes Chamber board he was not is priceless.” the silo walls were built and Randy Van Tassell, who train nurses and midwives. you’d only be alerted to look one of those people that had The Voice of Reason snugly secured,” Thompson first became acquainted with Van Tassell, Ramona for the joke by the way he’d an agenda,” Patterson said. “A Wilson’s June 6 letter said. “James said, ‘I think we Wilson as his accountant in Delmas and Tom Hardy crack half a smile followed by lot of us make decisions offers a glimpse of the type of should try one more meeting.’ the 1980s and over the years joined Wilson on a needs just the shred of a chuckle.” based on self-interest a lot of even-handed communication I truly admired James for his grew to become one of his assessment trip in December “He was a good person,” the time but he seemed to he was known for during ability to if not agree then lis- best friends, was often at that preceded an effort to Patterson said. have a broad perspective of times of conflict and contro- ten and if possible take the political odds with Wilson. raise $70,000 to send 29 phy- Part of that meant Wilson this town and his role in it.” versy. middle ground.” “He was very aware of sicians, who spent two weeks was willing to go above and In general, he is credited “James was passionate Thompson and Wilson what was going on politically in Chiapis in May. beyond, especially for those with doing for the city and about defending wild places. worked on a similar effort and socially in the communi- “He was very proud of his he loved. sports like bouldering what He had a knack for uncompli- with the Inyo National Forest’s ty,” Van Tassell said. “He and part in that and justifiably “I remember – I think it Wave Rave did for Mammoth cating complicated issues con- 2009 Travel Management I had 180 views but we could so,” Van Tassell said. was his 40th birthday or Lakes and snowboarding. cerning protecting places, Plan, which designated a sys- always discuss things honest- Wilson’s international char- thereabouts,” Vogel said. “I “Bouldering is a significant referring sometimes to ‘crit- tem of roads and trails for ly and openly and could work ity efforts extended to the had to climb the East Buttress recreational product here and ters and places’ rather than motorized vehicle use. To together even though we were mountains of Tibet, where of Mt. Whitney, which I had it was James who put it on ‘species and habitat,’” Vogel expedite the process and coming from different view- schoolchildren benefited from never done before but had to the map,” Patterson said. “A said. “Though he was passion- reduce friction among various points.” money he and other residents guide the next week. lot of it had to do with the ate about protecting and stakeholders, the Forest When the Board of have raised on their behalf. Somehow I convinced James way people were received in defending wildlands he was Service formed the first-ever Supervisors did approve the “James has been instru- that he and I should go do it his store.” almost as equally passionate Collaborative Action Team, a Adventure Trails pilot project mental in a small group called in a day, car to car. We did it He sold Wilson’s to long- about working with opposing collection of outdoor enthusi- in January, James was asked Eastern Sierra Friends of but at his birthday party nei- time friend and employee viewpoints to reach common asts, motorized access advo- for his reaction and respond- Machik. He helped form the ther of us could walk down Chris Iverson and her hus- understanding if not agree- cates, businesspeople, elected ed from a gracious perspec- group after I came back stairs because our legs were band, Todd Vogel, in 2012. ment.” officials and others tasked tive: “I’m pleased with the in 2005 from teaching English so sore.” On the business’ website, A regular at public meet- with making a recommenda- deliberation. Whether I’m at a school in Chungba, a More stories and memories the couple notes they are ings where the topic of dis- tion to the forest supervisor. happy with the decision … eh. remote Village in the moun- like Vogel’s can be found at “slowly dropping the use of cussion was the environment Together, the parties were (But) it’s an opportunity for tains of eastern Tibet,” said http://james-kepler-wilson. ‘Wilson’s’ and continuing to and potential harm thereof, able to come up with a recom- the OHV crowd to prove his good friend Kelley. “He forevermissed.com/, where use the ‘Eastside Sports.’ Wilson was never one to mendation resulting in a deci- they’re responsible.” has helped raise money for friends and acquaintances are Some will always know the grandstand, raise his voice or sion that, while, displeasing to The Philanthropist the school for 10 years. The also welcome to leave condo- store as ‘Wilson’s,’ and that’s derail the conversation. He some, was widely lauded as For some, Wilson is best money goes to the nonprofit lences. OK with us.” was an effective communica- an example of cooperative known as the man introduc- Machik (machik.org) in Aside from an incredible The Activist tor who calmly stated his case groundwork. ing the Banff Mountain Film Washington, D.C., and then legacy, Wilson leaves behind Prather first met Wilson in and said his peace – a habit “That diverse group shak- Festival each night of its directly to support the school his many words, in letters the early 1980s. The men that gave him the reputation ing hands and signing off on world-tour stop in Bishop. But and students in Chungba.” both public and personal, in shared similar interests, like of being a voice of reason, it – that was a huge accom- more accurately, he’s the rea- The Retiree impassioned comments to hiking, birding and saving the even as he stood by his own plishment,” Prather said. son the tour stops in Bishop, When not trying to save legislators and federal agen- planet. It was around the time beliefs. “James was a major player in since he and his wife have the world with friends like cies, and various essays, the Inyo National Forest was “James was a stillwater that.” been funding the screenings Prather, Van Tassell and including one he wrote on the drafting its Forest Plan. Age- person – he was a very pas- Today, the Collaborative for the past 22 years. Kelley, Wilson spent a lot of history and mission of Friends old concerns about conserva- sionate person – (but in pub- Action Team is viewed as a Wilson and Brad Rassler, a time in retirement hiking and of the Inyo, first appearing in tion, access and habitat lic) he was very calm and model across the country for friend and fellow outdoor birdwatching in some of the the Jeffrey Pine Journal sum- inspired, Prather, Wilson, focused and always looking forest planning efforts. enthusiast, organized the first very landscape he personally mer 2011 edition. Frank Stewart and other resi- for ways to keep people in the Many of the same parties festival in 1995 thinking helped to preserve for posteri- In it, Wilson writes what dents to form Friends of the room and work on things that involved in the collaborative maybe 100 people would ty. could very well sum up his Inyo. Wilson remained a board were very challenging,” action team actually found show up; instead, nearly 300 “He just loved being out- wishes for friends and strang- member from Day 1, helping Prather said. themselves on the opposite people packed themselves in doors, climbing, skiing, road ers alike: to guide the grassroots orga- Doug Thompson, owner of sides of another issue recently for the viewing. To date, more bicycling and especially bird- “(Exploration) is the greatest nization as it evolved from Whitney Portal Store in Lone when the Inyo County Board than 20,000 residents and vis- ing,” Vogel said. “Birding with joy. Get out there, go see it. the ad hoc phase to requiring Pine, remembers working with of Supervisors was asked to itors have attended the local him sometimes was like going Get your socks dirty, and take an actual office and staff. Wilson to form a “No-Name consider approving the ATV Banff tour in its 22-year local to Disneyland with a small someone new with you, take “He served as president for Committee” many years ago pilot project known as run. child. We’d see some cool bird someone young … If possible eight years, having held most in an effort to secure a land Adventure Trails. Since that very first year, and he’d start going off ‘Oh, this summer introduce some- roles on the executive com- transfer from federal agencies Patterson recalls how at Wilson has given Banff pro- oh, oh, oh my god it’s a one else to the wonders of the mittee,” said current President for the public good. It meant one meeting Wilson spoke ceeds to the Inyo Council for Caspian Tern!’ ‘Oh oh oh! natural world. Inoculate them Sydney Quinn. “James was working with and alongside against the project and he the Arts in order to support Todd! Todd! Get on this bird I with the wild. Go walk, bird, active on the board for nearly people whose interests and spoke for it, yet in the next the Millpond Music Festival, think it’s a Barrow’s backpack, do something with three decades! His dedication views were out of line with issue of the newspaper was a which was near and dear to Goldeneye!” them outdoors … and passion for the Eastern their own. Yet, Wilson was photo of them at the meeting Wilson’s heart. According to Van Tassell, “Give something back to Sierra will be matched by few. able to keep talks going when with their arms around each “He used to come in every Wilson’s log book of sighted the places that you love … “The passing of James into it appeared the experiment other’s shoulders, smiling. year and I’d show him birds numbered into the thou- spend time cleaning or restor- the ether has been a shock was about to fail. “I’m not the only person YouTube videos of all the sands. ing a place you cherish. And, and loss to all of us at Friends “Near the bitter end of the who had that kind of relation- bands we’d booked and it was This past year he and Kay of course, take someone new of the Inyo,” Quinn continued. second meeting I could see no ship with him,” Patterson fun to watch him get excited,” took a birding trip to Tierra with you!” The Inyo Register

EASTERN SIERRASATURDAY, JULY 18, 2015 HISTORY 14

U.S. Geological Survey volunteer Clarence King explores an active glacier on Mount Shasta in 1870. In During a survey in June of 1864, Clarence King and companions were astonished to discover a wall 1864 the California Geological Survey had declared Mount Shasta the highest mountain in the U.S., at of 13,000- to 14,000-foot-plus peaks between them and the Owens Valley – including Mountain 14,179 feet, but King had his doubts. Whitney. Photo courtesy USGS Photo courtesy U.S. Forest Service The race to climb Mt. Whitney, pt. 1

In 1864 the California had sketched them. Who Geological Survey deter- dared doubt their existence mined that the highest now? mountain in the United Brewer tried to puncture State, at 14,179 feet above King’s ballooning excite- sea level, was Mount Shasta. ment. None of the peaks, he But a young volunteer with opined, were higher than the Survey, Clarence King, Mount Shasta. But King had his doubts. He had studied the sketches spent his first winter in Hoffman had made on the California, 1863-64, survey- mountaintop, tilting the ing the Mariposa mining dis- pages to catch the light of trict on the western slope of the campfire. “I instantly the Sierra Nevada. One day, recognized the peaks which following a January storm, MARTY VOGHT I had seen from Mariposa, he and Charles Hoffman, a whose great white pile had topographer for the Survey, COLUMNIST led me to believe them the climbed Mount Bullion. From highest points of the summit, King later wrote, er route. After eight hours California.” the two had a “distinct view they stepped onto the sum- As Brewer and Hoffman of the High Sierra, ranging mit block, gasping for gulped their soup and bread, from the Mount Lyell group breath, gaping in silence at King pulled muleskinner many miles south to a vast the vista confronting them. Richard Cotter aside and pile of white peaks, which Instead of glazing down asked him if he would go from our estimate, should upon the Owens Valley, they with him, “to penetrate the lie near the heads of the faced a wall of mountains, Terra Incognito?” Cotter King’s and Kaweah rivers.” with at least a dozen peaks answered, “Why not?” King’s obsession with as high or higher than the Two days later, King and high places worried Josiah one on which they stood. Cotter departed camp armed Whitney, chief of the Survey; Brewer consulted his with new hobnails on their he was concerned that the barometer, and read an boots, barometers, com- young geologist did more unbelievable figure: 13,400 passes, a pocket level, wet climbing than working. But feet above sea level. Sightings and dry thermometers, note- after King identified fossils suggested the peaks to the books, bread, tea, cooked After summitting Mt. Tyndall, Clarence King in strata near Mariposa, his east stood 1,500 feet higher. beans and venison – about reported the success of the expedition and the Josiah Whitney, chief of the U.S. Geological reputation as a scientist Brewer normally wrote with 40 pounds for each man almost unbelievable fact that mountains even Survey, was worried about Clarence King’s obses- soared, and Whitney took scientific restraint. Now he rolled in blankets looped taller stood nearby. He proposed that the highest sion with high places, concerned the young man him as his assistant on a soared into poetry: over their shoulders. trip to Tahoe and the “Such a landscape! A hun- King and Cotter struggled peak be named Mount Whitney. did more climbing than working. Comstock. While they dred peaks in sight over through rocky canyons, tee- Photo courtesy npr.org File photo worked together, King con- thirteen thousand feet – tered on knife edge ridges, vinced Whitney that the many very sharp – deep can- always fighting the unbal- King swept the horizon soldiers from the local cav- his survey days, gritted his Survey should devote a few yons, cliffs in every direc- anced loads that chafed with his level, and discov- alry post to come along on teeth and plunged upward. weeks during the summer to tion almost rivaling their chests and backs. They ered two nearby peaks that the trek; cold and hunger To his delight the peak “explore and survey the new Yosemite, sharp ridges made camp on a sloping seemed about equal in drove him back after reach- turned out to be a rather alps.” almost in accessible to man, granite shelf, barely wide height, and two others defi- ing an elevation of about easy climb, if one ignored In June, 1864, men from on which human foot has enough to hold them both. nitely higher. “That which 14,000 feet. At Visalia he the unstable snowdrifts. At the Survey, including sec- never trod . . . “ After a meal of cold venison looked highest of all was a found his Survey compan- one point King plunged ond-in-command William Brewer and Hoffman had and bread, they whittled cleanly cut helmet of gran- ions had already left for through the crust, “looked Brewer, picked their way not set out prepared for a sprinters from the barome- ite upon the same ridge their next job, establishing down into a grotto of rock along the divide between the night on the mountain, so ter case to kindle a tiny fire with Mount Tyndall, lying the boundaries of the and ice, and out through a Kings and Kaweah Rivers, they had but little time to to make cups of tea. about six miles south, and Yosemite Grant, the state sort of window, over the marveled at the depth of the enjoy the view. After mak- The next day, using ropes fronting the desert with a park that preceded the western bluffs, and down canyon of the Kings, passed ing a few sketches they to haul their packs, and bold square bluff, which establishment of Yosemite thousands of feet to the far through a grove of Giant slogged back to camp. King occasionally each other, they rises to the crest of the National Park. When that away valley of the Kern.” Sequoia, and visited with later described the return of reached a spur jutting from peak.” task ended, King was chosen Approaching the summit, prospectors and hunters the two mountaineers: one of the high peaks, a Five days after leaving to lead a federal expedition, “dense, impenetrable they met on the trail. On “It was twilight of eve- spur “so narrow and sharp their companions, King and a survey across the conti- clouds” closed in, obscuring July 1 they established camp ning and almost eight …that we dared not walk, Cotter hobbled into camp, nent on the 40th parallel, the range. In his later essay on the shore of a small lake o-clock when they came but got astride, and worked and Brewer heaved a great and this project kept him about the climb, King could at the foot of a great pyra- back to camp, Brewer lead- slowly along with our hands, sigh of relief. For three busy for years. But even as not describe a glorious view, midal peak, which Brewer ing the way, Hoffman fol- pushing the knapsacks in days he had feared them he carried out his duties, he but had to settle for a estimated rose about 12,000 lowing; and as they sat down advance.” lost, and had been mentally did not forget Mount description of the summit. feet above sea level. Brewer by our fire without uttering They crawled onto the composing the letters he Whitney. “Close beside us a small decided to climb the moun- a word, we read upon their ridge just below the sum- must send to King’s and Finally in 1871, heading mound of rock was piled tain to get a good look at the face terrible fatigue.” mit; to their shock and Cotter’s families, notifying east from California on the upon the peak, and solidly terrain between the Sierra After a meal of venison, amazement, they found they them that their loved ones railroad, King seized the built into it an Indian arrow- crest and the deep trench of bread, soup, and coffee, had climbed the gentlest had disappeared in the chance for another go at the shaft, pointing due west. I the Owens Valley. Brewer and Hoffman slope of the mountain. To wilds of the Sierra Nevada. mountain. He was no longer hung my barometer from At dawn Brewer and revealed their exciting dis- the east the ridge seemed to Later Brewer admitted his heading into unmapped ter- the mound of our Indian Charles Hoffman started covery. The news elected drop straight down, 10,000 compositions had never ritory, for Charles Hoffman predecessor, nor did I their climb. Twice the men King. Ever since the previ- feet, to the Owens Valley. At progressed beyond: “It had spent several weeks in grudge his hunter pride the scaled a slot that appeared ous January his fellow scien- noon they stepped onto the becomes my painful duty to the Owens Valley, establish- honor of first finding that to reach the summit, only to tists had teased him about summit. King proclaimed inform you …” ing the exact position of one pathway to the summit find themselves in an his faith in the “highest the peak Mount Tyndall, in King reported the suc- Mount Whitney. of the United States, 15,000 impassable cul-de-sac. Each land” lying to the east. Now honor of British physicist cess of their expedition and Unfortunately, on the day feet above the oceans.” time they had to scramble Brewer had seen the white and mountaineer John the almost unbelievable fact King set foot in the Owens King scratched his and down and search for anoth- peaks, and Charles Hoffman Tyndall. that mountains even taller Valley, a storm swept over Pinson’s names on a half stood nearby. He proposed the Sierra, blotting out the dollar and concealed it in that the highest peak be peaks and forcing him to the cairn. Once back in Lone named Mount Whitney, to cool his heels in Lone Pine Pine he caught the stage honor the chief of the for three days. Finally the north, then boarded the Survey. King wanted des- clouds lifted. Paul Pinson of train heading home to perately to mount an assault Lone Pine, and a boy referred Connecticut, happy and sat- on that peak, but Brewer to only as Jose, joined King isfied that he had been the refused to linger in the in the adventure. They rode first Anglo-American to mountains. Provisions were horses up the gorge south climb Mt. Whitney. running low. Worse, Brewer of the peak, until rocks had a toothache. The men blocked the trail. Jose (Marty Voght has, through turned their backs on the remained with the horses, a long life in history, written pyramidal peak they already King and Pinson continued scholarly articles, film called Mount Brewer and on foot, were drenched by a scripts, humor, and romance headed for Visalia, fresh sudden thunderstorm, and novels. She finished her mas- food, and a dentist. spent the night under a rock ter’s degree in the history of After a few days of rest, overhang drying out before Western America at Cali King convinced Brewer that a roaring fire. State Northridge, and has he should have a vacation The following morning studied various topics in Clarence King and muleskinner Richard Cotter literalky crawled to reach the summit of Mt. Tyndall, from work so that he might clouds roiled about the European history at which King named in honor of British physicist and mountaineer John Tyndall. head again for the high peaks, but King, no longer in University of Oxford. She File photo peaks. King enlisted two the mountaineering trim of lives in Aspendell.) The Inyo Register

MOUNTASATURDAY,I NJULY 18, 2015 REPORT 15

Incredible Glacier Canyon and Dana Lakes from Dana Plateau. Mount Dana and its glacier with one of the Dana Lakes below. Photos by Craig Jackson Sierra Sojourns Three days, three hikes in and around Yosemite (Hiked on July 5, 2015) could here the enticing Canyon and below to brother’s truck for some At a glance: sound of Glacier Creek Dana Lakes and let me four-wheel driving • 8 miles round trip, Day 2 as the grade steepened tell you, I was not dis- below Mono Craters and 2,800-foot gain to the higher we went up appointed! The view then a short hike on Dana Plateau Day 2’s hike was the the ravine. from above 12,000 feet Navy Beach at Mono • Plenty of beautiful main reason my brother We crossed Glacier into Glacier Canyon, Lake. It was a memora- wildflowers in the and I planned this trip. Creek on a wobbly log down to Dana Lakes ble, spectacular day, to meadow and near We found out recently then the grade eased at and across to massive say the least. Glacier Creek from our cousin that his the top of the first can- Mount Dana and its gla- Back at the very busy • Unsurpassed views father, who passed yon as we entered a gor- cier was beyond words. Whoa Nellie Deli, we of Mount Dana away in 2006, loved geous meadow a couple I sat on a rock for a few had dinner at 7 p.m., • Plenty of mosqui- Yosemite and especially of miles into the hike. moments and just again inhaling a chili- toes, DO NOT forget the area around Mount After crossing a creek stared; it was awesome! cheeseburger and a bbq repellent Dana, Glacier Canyon CRAIG JACKSON that was descending The clouds were chicken sandwich and • Possible thunder- and Dana Plateau. We COLUMNIST from a rocky gully to building as the tempera- then up to the Mono storms and cold decided to pay our the left, we stopped for ture decreased so we Lake lookout we went weather higher up, be respects to our dearly of the most scenic hik- a short break to admire decided to start heading for our second night of prepared departed uncle and con- ing available anywhere the scenery ahead of us. back down the trail and car-camping. A lot of cluded that Fourth of in the Sierra Nevada. We knew the Dana before we knew it, we thunder and lightning (Craig Jackson is a July weekend would be The stunning gorge is Lakes were straight were back at the trail- was putting on a show Bishop resident and perfect for this adven- actually a hanging val- ahead but instead we head at 2:30 p.m. We over Mono Lake but for- avid hiker/backpacker ture. ley created by a smaller followed the stream bed drove back to “Camp tunately no rain, which who enjoys exploring It was pretty darn tributary glacier. A half- steeply to the left on a “K,” picked up my was good for my broth- his new backyard after cold at “Camp 9K” on mile northeast of Mount very faint use-trail for brother’s car and head- er as he slept in the bed having relocated here the fifth of July when I Dana (13,057 feet) over approximately 500 feet ed directly for the Whoa of his truck resting up in 2013 from Southern arose from a dead-sleep Glacier Canyon is the and reached Dana Nellie Deli. Still early in for the third day of hik- California. Email him at sunrise. I fit perfectly much-less traveled Dana Plateau at roughly four the day, we left my car ing in and around at Sierracj51@gmail. in the back of my Plateau. This is a huge miles from the trail- at the deli and took my Yosemite. com.) Explorer with the aid of high-altitude mountain head. a great sleeping bag and mesa two miles long After another short a few large pillows. My and three-quarters mile break, we hiked due brother Mark, on the wide ranging from east to a high point other hand, opted to 11,400 feet at the north overlooking Lee Vining sleep next to the creek end to 12,600 feet at a Canyon, Mono Lake and in his tent and woke up high point directly a great view of the to a dew-drenched cano- across from Mount Mono Craters. The gran- py in the morning. Dana at the beginning ite wall drops straight No worries, we just of the glacial-cirque. It down from here in a waited for the sun to is an impressive sight very dramatic fashion, pop up over Lee Vining when driving up State not a good spot if Peak’s ridge and soon Route 120, but the sight you’re afraid of heights. thereafter, the tent was of Lee Vining Canyon Here is where we offi- dry and we were on our and Mono Lake from cially paid our respects way to the trailhead at the top is breathtaking. and shared stories we Tioga Lake. We started hiking at remembered about our The trailhead is right 8:15 a.m. on a beautiful, uncle from our child- off State Route 120 at clear and warm summer hood. the west end of Tioga morning, eager to pay It was 11:30 a.m. now Lake behind a informa- our respects to our and a very cool breeze tion board area. The uncle and see some started blowing along trail is not marked but beautiful scenery. We with some dark clouds easy to find as it imme- headed down from the appearing over Mount diately goes steeply trailhead, passed Tioga Dana. I had to hike the downhill to Tioga Lake’s Lake’s west shore and three-quarters of a mile shore. started moderately up west to the other side Glacier Canyon and the trail through the of Dana Plateau so I Name That Eastside View Dana Plateau offer some forest. Soon enough we could see down Glacier Bill Bjorklund was able to correctly identify last week’s View as taken from the top of Dunderberg Peak, looking down on the headwaters of Green Creek with Summit Lake and Hoover Lakes in the view. If you have a photo you’d like to share as the next Eastside View, by all means send it BRIEFS in! If you think you know this week’s View, give the editor a call at (760) 873-3535 or drop her a line at [email protected] with your guess. First correct respondent is the winner, and will receive two (2) free 25-word classified ads. It also comes with the satisfaction of knowing Backpacking with the Sierra Club sible hike up Mt. Williamson (14,375 feet) via Shepherd Pass. you’re helping to sustain a much-loved feature of your local community newspaper. Advanced sign-up is required of anyone The excursion will be strenuous, with a Photo by Roberta McIntosh wanting to join the Sierra Club on an upcom- 12-mile hike on the longest day and a maxi- Do you have an “Eastside View” you’d like readers to try and identify? ing, multi-day cross-country backpack explo- mum elevation gain/loss of 5,000 feet per Email your submission to [email protected]. ration of the Wrights Lake Basin. day. The trip begins Monday, July 20 and con- For more information and to sign, contact For more information, call (760) 873-3535. cludes Thursday, July 23 and includes a pos- Rob at [email protected].