Boulders and booze

Wednesday, August 19, 2009

By Jake Nichols

Phil Baux rocks on
Jackson Hole, Wyo.-If only geographical forces of nature had conspired to drop a big ass rock right there next to the swing set in Phil Baux Park. Bob McLaurin figures it will cost a quarter-million dollars to put a boulder in Phil Baux.

“We want to honor Jackson’s alpinist tradition and climbing [notables],” McLaurin said.

A local grassroots group of climbing enthusiasts, Teton Boulder Initiative approached Parks & Rec boss Steve Foster about building a practice wall  in Jackson. Phil Baux quickly became the likely site owing to its pre-existing slope utilized currently by grade school sledders. TBI wants to build a 12-foot artificial rock into the hillside leading up to Snow King .

McLaurin explained the boulder would be covered much the same way as any city playground. It would not be high enough to permit a “whipper.”
Greg Miles said the site could provide opportunity for social engagement and would be a great way for aspiring climbers to get introduced to the sport. Mark Obringer also liked the plan, saying it would be “a good way to ... celebrate our climbing heritage.”

TBI plans to get the rock rolling with a fundraiser on Sept. 26 at the Center for the Arts. A slideshow will also feature appearances by legendary climbing guests. If TBI can raise $250,000, the project will be turned over to the Town of Jackson rather than Parks & Rec. The Town already budgeted $10,000 toward improvements to Phil Baux in its 2010 fiscal year budget. The Community Foundation of Jackson Hole will work with TBI, adding the group as a ‘special projects’ designation.
The Council voted unanimously to allow efforts to be made that would reconfigure Phil Baux for bouldering.

Meet me (outside) The Wort
The Wort Hotel received permission to serve alcohol on the sidewalk outside the Silver Dollar. The 35-square-foot area would permit patrons to enjoy diesel exhaust with their beers.

“I think this is great,” Miles said. “It’s something I’ve wanted to see more and more of in Jackson.” Miles added that the downtown core was the appropriate location for this.

After hearing specifics on how the mini-beer garden would be roped off, the Council passed the proposal unanimously. JHW


PERMALINK:
Boulders and booze | Planet JH News Article: Council Chronicles

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