Emerald Sink

[resolute]

There is no reasonable excuse why anyone should not join the "Friends" orgainization who cares about the caves in the area as well as fostering better relations with the park officials (which I think we all really want to do...) - it is a minimal cost and does demonstrate our commitment to the area. That being said, I do not see why a fruitful, positive and productive relationship with the local park officials (or anyone in government anywhere for that matter..) cannot be had while, at the same time, holding the officials accountable (in a transparent, non-confrontational and productive manner) and seeking to continually improve and deepen the mutual benefit derived from the ongoing relationship. Hopefully that is what we are all seeking to so (it sounds like it is..) and we remember to make things better this go round than perhaps the status quo that has been successful sometimes and not successful other times (no reason we can't always try to do better as a united community in deepening and expanding our relationships - right? Keep what has worked in the past while also utilizing new tactics where necessary). After all, if the President of the United States or various State Governors (or the appointed director of FEMA for that matter..) expect to be held accountable by their constituents - and ultimately ARE held accountable, shouldn't everyone who holds any kind of position within government expect the same and hold to the same standard? Main thing is lets all keep united in our goals and not degrade to the far too easy bickering and "politics as usual".. Our collective interests are better served when we all can have a stake in the success of any interest (and not just a certain "sub-group" of us...)

Again, my thanks to everyone among us who is making this happen (including the state officials with whom we all look forward to developing deeper and more productive relationships with...). Along with many other friends and fellow cave divers, my tools, sweat and money remain ready for the next phase of the Emerald project....

JB

[curtschu]

Ok this might not be the last word but it was the newest I found!! What is the latest on this project? It seems to have slipped from the public eye.
I know money has been pleaded and time and material promised.
Now we are getting into the HOT months and any Volunteer carpenters are going to suffer in the heat. Info on this would be greatly appreciated.

[lonestarfl]

I was by there two days ago. Both sinks have clear green water in them...so the viz is definitely improving. The land around Emerald has had a recent fire...contol burn??? Well whatever the cause all the underbrush is gone. the air has a "charred" smell, but the walk to the sink is easy and the stairs are in serious need of a rebuild. Cheryl is unaffected and the platform is as study as ever.
I gave Johnny a call to gve this report and get an update. He indicated that he would be contacting Sandra to try and get the ball rolling.
Lee