BigBearMagazineblog

Local Riders in Big Bear

2011-11-07T21:33:00.000-08:00

Check out Big Bear Magazine's YouTube channel to see movies from local riders in Big Bear. You ready to ride??!

http://www.youtube.com/user/bigbearmagazine

GET READY TO RIDE WEDNESDAY!!

2011-11-07T21:25:00.000-08:00

Book Signing Program at the Library

2011-11-07T13:07:00.000-08:00

“Warriors at 500 Knots” is a book written by Robert Kirk, a Phantom pilot himself, in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War. The book details intense stories of undaunted and valiant American pilots with their legendary fierce Phantoms. These are personal stories of intrepid courage and self-sacrifice to get the mission done - whatever the cost. Fierce, unflinching battles to save friendlies and destroy a ruthless enemy are all recorded 40 years later. True tales of war at 500 knots.

As an F-4D pilot, Mr. Kirk completed 197 combat missions in Vietnam and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Air Medal with Oak Leaf Clusters.

The author discuss his experiences during these missions and following this presentation, he will have signed books available for purchase.

The program will be held at the Big Bear Lake Branch Library, 41930 Garstin Drive, Big Bear Lake on Wednesday, November 9, 2011, at 5:30 PM. Please note that the date and time were changed after the initial publication in the Friends of the Library Newsletter.

It is open to the general public at no charge. Seating is limited and early arrival is recommended. For any questions, please call the library at 909-866-5571.

EXTRAORDINARY AUCTION ITEMS, ENTERTAINMENT AND MENU ANNOUNCED FOR AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY SUMMER GALA

2011-08-09T16:56:00.001-07:00

INLAND EMPIRE—Event chairperson Dolores Green, Executive Director of the Riverside County Medical Association and her committee revealed the amazing auction items, delicious menu and exciting entertainment planned for the American Cancer Society’s annual summer gala, set for Saturday, August 20th, to benefit the American Cancer Society’s community-based programs and services in the Inland Empire.

Imagine More Birthdays is the gala theme, which will be held at the Riverside Convention Center. Unusual auction items include:

Huntington Harbour Cruise for 20: Entertain your guests in style on the private yacht, "Tin Man," cruising the beautiful Southern California coast. This beautiful 60' Viking yacht will take a party of 20 out for a fabulous ocean adventure that includes hors d'oeuvres and beverages, salt air and ocean breezes.

Private Saltwater Fishing Trip: Feel the ocean breezes while six guests cruise the waters off of the sunny, Southern California coast, in either the fabulous 45-foot sportfishing Tiara yacht, "Bigbucks" or the 60' sportfishing Viking yacht, "TinMan." This is a full-day fishing adventure off of either Catalina Island or San Clemente Island that includes food, drinks and beverages.

Wine Tasting for 20: A two-hour private wine tasting class for 20 people presented by Total Wine & More of Rancho Cucamonga with a wine expert on hand to present and discuss each featured wine. Select between a seated gathering with a class style atmosphere or a walk-around event. Features eight hand-selected wines, stemware, and educational handout for tasting notes.

Hot Air Balloon Ride for Two: Enjoy the heights and the sights on the Serenity with Champagne Brunch after the flight. Most flights depart from Perris, CA.

The Silent Auction and Reception will begin at 6:00 p.m.. A scrumptious dinner of Tarragon Chicken, Red Roasted Potatoes, and Chocolate Fantasy Cake will delight all in attendance.
Next is the Celebration of Life award presentation to cancer survivors and activists Nancy Varner, Annie Sellas, and Cathy Stockton. The trio are founders of the “Inland Women Fighting Cancer” organization and the Believe Walk. Enchanting entertainment from Finite Wisdom with music from the 70's, 80's and 90's will begin at approximately 9 p.m.

Platinum Sponsor for the event is Stater Bros. Charities. Silver Sponsors for the event include Loma Linda University Cancer Center and Kaiser Permanente Riverside. The Bronze Sponsors are Chicago Title Company, Kindred Hospital Riverside, Riverside County Medical Association, Stronghold Engineering, Inc., Riverside Medical Clinic, Riverside County Supervisor John Tavaglione, Union Bank, and Varner & Brandt LLP.

Table Hosts include Inter Valley Health Plan, Riverside Community Hospital, San Antonio Community Hospital, The Sellas Family, Soboba Casino, The Stockton Family, and Wall’s Hauling Service, Inc. Patron Sponsors include Top Priority Couriers, Inc., Riverside Radiology Medical Group, Inc., and WellDyneRX. .

Table sponsorships begin at $1,500 for tables of eight, with a variety of other sponsorships available; and individual tickets for the event are $100 each. For more information or to make a donation, call Leslie Roman, Director of Community Services for the American Cancer Society, (951) 300-1206. Visit the event website at gala.acsevents.org/morebirthdays. For cancer information anytime, call the American Cancer Society at (800) 227-2345, or visit cancer.org.

Beckie Moore Flati | Marketing Communication Director
Border Sierra Region, California | American Cancer Society, Inc.
Inland Empire Office, 6355 Riverside Ave., Riverside, CA 92506 | cancer.org
714.779.8104 | mobile: 714.697.8666

EXTRAORDINARY AUCTION ITEMS, ENTERTAINMENT AND MENU ANNOUNCED FOR AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY SUMMER GALA

2011-08-09T16:56:00.000-07:00

Fire Investigators are seeking the public’s assistance.

2011-08-09T16:49:00.000-07:00

Firefighters responded to a report of fire this morning at 10:34 am, first reported at Arrowhead Lake Road and State Highway 173 southeast of Hesperia.

The US Forest Service Heaps Peak Helicopter was first on scene and determined the fire was located in the Deep Creek drainage and north of the dirt portion of State Highway 173 burning on a very steep rocky slope on the south side of the creek.

Firefighters from the US Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Cal Fire and San Bernardino County Fire Department responded to the incident and battled the blaze, containing the fire just after 5pm. During the height of the firefight, over 100 firefighters were supported by two air tankers, three helicopters and one air attack plane.

Fire investigators hiked down the steep slope to determine that illegal fireworks started the fire. No suspects have been apprehended and the investigators are not releasing the type of fireworks used to start the fire.

Fire Investigators are seeking the public’s assistance. If anyone was in the area the morning of the fire and may have information as to the person(s) responsible for starting the fire, please call (909) 382-2854

Fire name: Arrowhead
Location: Deep Creek, southeast of Hesperia
Start Date: August 5, 2011
Start Time: 1034
100% Containment: 1705
Size: 44.8 acres
Cause: Illegal Fireworks

More information the location, http://www.inciweb.org/incident/2445/

John Miller
San Bernardino National Forest
(909) 382-2788

The Arts Council of Big Bear Valley Presents: The Twelfth Annual “Art on the Lake” Fine Art Show

2011-08-09T16:28:00.000-07:00

Dates: August 19, 20 and 21st. On Friday evening, wine and appetizers will be served at an open-to-the-public reception, from 7 pm to 9 pm, in the Marina Resort tent, also the location of the show on Saturday and Sunday. Saturday and Sunday, doors will open at 10 am and close at 5 pm.
Saturday August 20 and Sunday August 21st the show will open at 10 am to 5 pm.

Location: Marina Resort
40770 Lakeview Drive
Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

Artists will be located inside the big white tent, as well as on the grounds of the beautiful Marina Resort on Lakeview Drive with great views of the lake. Entertainment will be provided throughout the weekend.

“Art on the Lake XII” promises to be our best show ever. We celebrate 12 years of bringing together some of the finest artists for what has become one of the premier fine art shows in Southern California. We are planning a show that will showcase the work of more than 50 artists, some of whom have been part of the show since “ Art on the Lake I.” Many artists who participated in previous shows are returning this year, including Dennis Bentson and Ron Munoz, both local area photographers, Elaine Trei, watercolorist and oil painter, Leslie Kirchner and Susan LaBouri, well-known wildlife artist, and new artists from the Lake Arrowhead and surrounding communities Fine art jewelry artists, sculptors and ceramic artists add to the eclectic mix of art offered at the show and each year we welcome new artists whose work adds another dimension to our group of fine artists.

The Artists' Reception on Friday evening, August 19th, will be a special welcome to all the artists who make “Art on the Lake” the success that it is. The Reception is open to the public and there is no admission charge. Arts Council President, David Leach commented, "We like to show the artists how much we appreciate their making "Art on the Lake" such a wonderful show and having an opportunity to meet the artists and enjoy a glass of wine seems the perfect way to do so."

Big Bear Lake is a year-round resort in the San Bernardino Mountains. The show is held at the Marina Resort, at 40770 Lakeview Drive inside a 4,000 sq. foot tent and on the beautifully landscaped grounds. Parking is close by and the venue is within walking distance of the Village shops. Hours are 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on August 20 and 21.

“Art on the Lake” draws artists and visitors from all the surrounding mountain communities, as well as from Los Angeles, Orange County, Ventura County, San Bernardino, Riverside, Redlands and the Desert Communities.
For additional information about “Art of the Lake XII”, pleae contact Gail McCarthy at 909-585-5916 or e-mail mail4gail@aol.com. Also, please visit our web site www.bigbearartscouncil.org."

Music at the Mansion MMXI.IV, Sunday, August 14, 2011, 3 P.M.

2011-07-28T16:17:00.000-07:00

“Music at the Mansion,” continues with the third concert in the series to be held at 3:00 p.m. on August 14, 2011 in the intimate setting of the historic Knickerbocker Mansion Country Inn on Knickerbocker Road in Big Bear Lake. Arts Council board member, Barbara King, an accomplished pianist, has organized a group performers, most of whom are the talented musicians and artists from the Big Bear area, and some young talents who are “home for the summer” from their respective college campuses where they continue to pursue their degrees in Fine Arts. The eclectic mix of performances at this concert will include Caitlin Barney with selections from her new Celtic CD, Amber Carpenter, a member of the Young Americans, home from their European Tour, Elaine Fitzpatrick, Las Vegas professional vocalist offering selections by Cole Porter and Amber Parle, attending UC Davis, with selections from musical theater. Favorites Sharon Rizzo, cellist with the Redlands Symphony and Alicia and Tawny Williams, the “Violin Twins” will perform selections by Vivaldi and Dvorak for classical music fans. Also on the program is a duet featuring the vocal talent of Suzy Carpenter and her daughter. These performers and a few surprise selections will round out the afternoon of music to please everyone’s taste.

As part of the very popular “Dinner Theater” originated by the Arts Council, a delightful special dinner by Chef Thomas, assisted by Sous Chef, Robert, will be served after the concert for those who want to enjoy the ambience of the Mansion’s beautiful dining room.

The cost is $20 for the concert, which begins at 3:00 pm, and $25 for dinner, which immediately follows the performance. Selections from the Mansion’s excellent regular menu are served. Reservations are required and can be made at 909-585-5916.

Proceeds from these concerts support the arts in our community, as well as in our schools.

THREE CANCER SURVIVORS AND ACTIVITISTS HONORED BY AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY

2011-07-27T15:23:00.000-07:00

INLAND EMPIRE—Nancy Varner, Annie Sellas, and Cathy Stockton, all cancer survivors from the Inland Empire, will receive the “Celebration of Life” award from the American Cancer Society’s Inland Empire Area Office. The presentation will take place on Saturday, August 20th at the annual summer gala, themed Imagine More Birthdays, at the Riverside Convention Center.
“I am deeply honored to receive the 2011 Celebration of Life Award,” said Nancy Varner. “The American Cancer Society is an outstanding organization that touches so many people’s lives through research, education, and support services. Annie, Cathy and I all had our lives changed because of this disease. But together we can make a difference!”
Varner, Sellas, and Stockton were united by their cancer journeys. “We were thankful for the love and support from friends, family and community during our treatment, and were compelled to find a way to give that message of hope and caring to others,” said Sellas. After many meetings, they stepped out to launch a walk in the Inland Empire to benefit cancer patients and their families.
With the support of Jack H. Brown, Chairman and CEO of Stater Bros. Markets, the “Inland Women Fighting Cancer” organization was housed under the Stater Bros. Charities, and the Believe Walk was born.
“The American Cancer Society has been working to eliminate cancer as a major health problem for nearly 100 years,” said Cathy Stockton. More than 13,000 people in the Inland Empire will hear the words, “You have cancer,” in 2011. But there is help thanks to the free patient services programs of the American Cancer Society.
The Society’s gala event is chaired this year by Dolores Green, Executive Director of Riverside County Medical Association.
Funds raised during the gala support the American Cancer Society’s many programs which help cancer patients and their families with information and services that provide day-to-day help and emotional support.
Platinum Sponsor for the event is Stater Bros. Charities, and the Silver Sponsors for the event are Loma Linda University Cancer Center and Kaiser Permanente Riverside. Bronze Sponsors include Riverside Medical Clinic; Riverside County Medical Association; Chicago Title; Kindred Hospital Riverside; Stronghold Engineering, Inc.; Union Bank; Varner and Brandt LLP; and Riverside County Supervisor John Tavaglione. Table Hosts for the evening are Inter Valley Health Plan; Riverside Community Hospital; San Antonio Community Hospital; The Stockton Family; Soboba Casino; The Sellas Family; and Wall’s Hauling Service. Patron Sponsors are WellDyneRx; Top Priority Couriers, Inc.; Riverside Radiology Medical Group.
Table sponsorships begin at $1,500 for tables of eight, with a variety of other sponsorships available; and individual tickets for the event are $100 each. For more information or to make a donation, call Leslie Roman, Director, Community Services, at the American Cancer Society at (951) 300-1216, or by email at Leslie.Roman@cancer.org. Visit the event website at gala.acsevents.org/morebirthdays. For cancer information anytime, call the American Cancer Society at (800) 227-2345, or visit cancer.org.

When ordinary people do extraordinary things, that is worth celebrating.

2011-07-22T11:19:00.000-07:00

Dear Editor,

There are three cancer survivors in the Inland Empire who deserve to be celebrated for their extraordinary fight against cancer. Nancy Varner, Cathy Stockton, and Annie Sellas took their battles with cancer and turned them into a Celebration of Life by giving back to their community of the Inland Empire in a significant way.

So join me on Saturday, August 20, 2011 for the American Cancer Society’s third annual summer gala, themed “Imagine More Birthdays.” The festive event will be held at the lovely Riverside Convention Center in Riverside. The “Celebration of Life” award will be presented to these inspirational cancer survivors, with an acknowledgement to all other cancer survivors attending, as well.

Please call to make a table reservation, or to donate to the silent and live auctions. Individual tickets for the event are $100 each. For more information call the American Cancer Society at (951) 300-1206, or visit the event website at gala.acsevents.org/morebirthdays.

Yours for a World with More Birthdays,

Dolores Green, Executive Director
Riverside County Medical Association
Volunteer Chair, “Imagine More Birthdays” Gala

C/o American Cancer Society
6355 Riverside Ave., Riverside, CA 92506
(714) 779-8104
Beckie Moore Flati | Marketing Communication Director
Border Sierra Region, California | American Cancer Society, Inc.
Inland Empire Office, 6355 Riverside Ave., Riverside, CA 92506 | cancer.org
714.779.8104 | mobile: 714.697.8666

Roughly 100 firefighters using 13 fire engines, 1 dozer, 2 hand crews, 3 water tenders, 2 helicopters and one air attack aircraft battled the fire.

2011-07-20T21:10:00.000-07:00

Firefighters quickly stopped a wildland fire today in Pinyon, a small mountain community along State Highway 74 southwest of Palm Desert in the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument.

Firefighters from the US Forest Service, Calfire, Riverside County Fire and the BLM held the fire to 8.2 acres along State Highway 74 in Pinyon avoiding any damage or loss to homes in the nearby community.

The fire burned 6 acres on the North side of State Highway 74 and jumped across State Highway 74, burning one acre on the South side of the highway.

The California Highway Patrol did close the highway in both directions for 3 hours, reopening at 3:30pm.

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

The fire was reported at 1:08pm at Highway 74 at Spring Crest Drive in Pinyon

Fire was declared contained at 4:20pm on July 20, 2011

Fire size 8.2 acres

Cause is under investigation

State Highway 74 was closed for 3 hours to all traffic, reopening at 3:30pm

The fire is being managed under Unified Command with the Bureau of Land Management and the United States Forest Service.

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

John Miller

San Bernardino National Forest

(909) 382-2788

3rd Annual Big Bear Lake "Song Festival"

2011-05-27T14:10:00.001-07:00

FREE CONCERT ADMISSIONS TO THE FOLLOWING EVENTS:

Wednesday: June 8th 7 pm "Music at the Mansion" Faculty Recital Performance at the Knickerbocker Mansion
Thursday: June 9th 7 pm "Music at the Mansion" Participating Artists Recital Performance a the Knickerbocker Mansion
Saturday, June 11th, 7 pm "Music at the Mansion" Participating Artists Recital Performance at the Big Bear Performing Arts Center.

SEATING IS LIMITED FOR THE "MUSIC AT THE MANSION" concerts -- please call The Arts Council of Big Bear at 909-585-2907 to make reservations. for inquired about the Big Bear Lake Song Festival call 702-812-7085 or visit www.bigbearlakesongfestival.org.

Note: Last year I attended these concerts and it was wonderful, exciting and a pleasure to hear these young people expand their abilities and performance skills in voice. The following Press Release does not do justice to the skills that Elaine Fitzpatrick and Tod Fitzpatrick teach the music students of University Nevada at Las Vegas,

Memorial Day Weekend Marks the Start of the Camping Season on the San Bernardino National Forest

2011-05-27T14:04:00.000-07:00

San Bernardino, Calif., May 26, 2011 Camping is a year-round endeavor, but for many people Memorial Day weekend is the deadline to air out the tents, dust off the hiking boots and load up on the makings for s'mores.
Kids are out of school, or nearly so, and the days are warmer and longer. It's a perfect time to start reintroducing yourself to the fun and excitement and the calm and peacefulness national forests and grasslands have to offer.
Most of the recreation sites on the San Bernardino National Forest will be open for forest visitors by Memorial Day weekend. “The forest is ready for the 2011 summer recreation season,” said Forest Supervisor Jody Noiron. “We encourage people to enjoy the outdoors while camping, hiking, mountain biking, fishing or a variety of other recreational activities on our forest.”
As always, forest officials encourage visitors to be aware of their surroundings and responsibilities when visiting the forest. “We want to ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable visit while always remaining aware of the current situation outdoors and the potential for wildfire and wildlife, and call ahead to check the status of places you plan to visit” said Supervisor Noiron.
“Know Before You Go”
Campfires
Campfires are only permitted at developed sites in the designated fire rings in campgrounds, picnic grounds and Yellow Post Sites. Outside of developed sites, only propane or gas cooking stoves are permitted.
Campgrounds
Campgrounds are popular for three-day weekend getaways, so reserving early is sometimes key, so you need to plan. Campground reservations can be made online through Reserve USA at: www.recreation.gov or by calling toll free 1-877-444-6777.
Recreation Use Fees
The Forest Adventure Pass must be displayed on a visitor’s parked vehicle when recreating in High Impact Recreation Areas and certain developed sites like campgrounds and picnic areas. An on-line source of designated fee sites, areas and fee information is available at: http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/sanbernardino/ap/
Off-Highway Vehicles
Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) users should call ahead to the Ranger Station to call ahead to confirm their OHV plans and verify rules and regulations. OHV riding area maps are available on the San Bernardino National Forest website. “Red Sticker” vehicle riding season has closed in the San Bernardino mountains for the summer and will resume on October 1. (San Jacinto mountains “red sticker areas close on May 31).
Check with the Ranger Stations for the latest conditions and recreation information and a copy of our free forest visitor’s guide at the following offices:
San Bernardino National Forest Supervisor’s Office
602 S. Tippecanoe Avenue, San Bernardino
(909) 382-2600
Arrowhead Ranger Station
28104 State Highway 18, Skyforest
(909) 382-2782
Big Bear Ranger Station and Discovery Center
41397 North Shore Drive / Highway 38, Fawnskin
(909) 382-2790
Idyllwild Ranger Station
54270 Pine Crest, Idyllwild
(909) 382-2922
Lytle Creek Ranger Station
1209 Lytle Creek Road, Lytle Creek
(909) 382-2851
Mill Creek Ranger Station
34701 Mill Creek Road, Mentone
(909) 382-2882
Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Visitor Center
51-500 Highway 74 Palm Desert
(760) 862-9984
For additional information about the San Bernardino National Forest, please visit: http://www.fs.usda.gov/sbnf
The mission of the US Forest Service is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the Nation's forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations. The Agency manages 193 million acres of public land, provides assistance to State and private landowners, and maintains the largest forestry research organization in the world.

Contact: John Miller (909) 382-2788

Become part of the Driving Force that Impacts Lives

2011-04-02T11:07:00.000-07:00

Volunteers Needed to Drive Cancer Patients To and From Treatments

The American Cancer Society-sponsored Road to Recovery program provides transportation for cancer patients to and from their cancer-related appointments. The program needs volunteers from all areas of the county.
Hours can vary but the average driver volunteers for about four hours a week, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Volunteers can drive as often as they wish, once a month, or several times a month, as they are available. Dispatchers, who can volunteer from their homes, are also needed to coordinate rides for patients.
Volunteers are asked to fill out an application, and submit a copy of their driving record and proof of insurance in order for them to be covered by an ACS insurance policy secondary to volunteer’s insurance. For more information or to volunteer, please call the American Cancer Society at (800) ACS-2345, or visit the website at www.cancer.org.

The Newsroom, etc Business Bits

2011-03-25T15:03:00.000-07:00

March 22, 2011

The Big Bear Library has postponed the Book Sale due to the weather challenges. Originally scheduled for Wednesday March 23 to Saturday March 26, it has now been rescheduled to Wednesday April 6 thru Saturday April 9.

Wild Wings’ loyal customers can enjoy some terrific reduced their prices while the owners are anticipating their closing this spring. It’s time to stock up for your winged friends and take advantage of the fantastic gift opportunities.

The new Dollar Tree……. A shopping experience, galore!

Getting Healthier

Gabe & Vicki Velasquez are back home resting from Gabe’s bout in the hospital with a heart attack. Of course Vicki is always ‘just great’, just ask her!

Ron Seymour is regaining his strength daily & looking forward to doing his ‘Round Town with Ron’ shows live again very soon.

And Julie & John Grandi are returning from the nice warm desert where Julie’s been recuperating from hip surgery.

We’ve said ‘Goodbye’ to:

Dr. Robert Davies passed away Sunday morning March 20, 2011, at the age of 80 years. A memorial service will be held April 30th at The Convention Center at Big Bear Lake at 11:00 a m. The public is invited to attend. Read more about Bob Davies on Rimoftheworld.net.

Gypsey Butler passed away Sunday March 20, 2011 at the age 72 years, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Los Angeles, following surgery and subsequent health complications. She is survived by her brother & sister-in-law, Ron and Elena Peavy and her four nieces and nephews, Scott Peavy, Lesli Ventimiglia, Matthew Peavy and Krista Ray.

Gypsey moved to Big Bear Lake in February of 2006 from Denver, Colorado where she had been a long-time resident. Big Bear friends will miss her warm personality, fashionable dress and meeting her at many community functions. A memorial service is pending for late April or early May.

Frank Bradley passed away Monday March 21, 2011 after a short illness. He is survived by his wife, Beverly Abbott, three children and several grandchildren. Beverly would appreciate a card or call from her Big Bear friends. Contact her through E.T. Russell.

Media Muse

Did you catch Denis Thomas Monday 7:00 a m & 7:00 p m, Good Day Big Bear Channel 6 show? His guest was Museum Curator Merle, who had some fascinating photos and stories about the history of Big Bear.

The Barnstorm Restaurant, Friday & Saturday nights this week is having a Red Cross Japan Earthquake Relief Fundraiser. This is a ’must do’! See the details on Rimoftheworld.net.

“A Musical-Comedy Life” Friday, March 25 at 7:30, opening night for CATS spring show, “A Musical-Comedy Life” starring Robin Field and other local CATS actors, dancers and singers. The show runs for “3 performances only”: Fri/3-25, Sat/3-26 & Sunday Matinee @ 1:30.

Bearly Speaking Toastmasters Club will have a “Humor Open House” on Tuesday, March 29, at 6:30 p.m. at the Northwoods Resort. Bring your favorite joke and get ready to laugh throughout the meeting. For information, 909-866-8849. Early arrivals may take advantage of the half-price no-host bar menu available until 6 p.m. in the Stillwell’s Lounge.

Sugarloaf Property Owners Association meeting will be Saturday, March 26th at 10:00 a m at the Sugarloaf Fire Station, located at the corner of Maple & Baldwin Lanes. The guest speaker will be a Big Bear Sherriff representative.

The Big Bear Computer Club meets Thursday, April 7th at 5:30 pm. The Discovery Center is now closing on Tuesdays and Wednesdays affecting meetings schedule. We were able to obtain the 1st Thursday of the month as our regular monthly meeting at the Discovery Center. The club will be providing Pizza from the Red Baron so don’t miss out!

Big Bear Historical Society’s will have James Ramos, Chairman of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians as the guest speaker with the topic being the history of the Serrano Indians who inhabited the Big Bear Valley. The general meeting will be Tuesday April 5th at at 7:00 p m in the BBARWA meeting room, located at 121 Palomino Drive, Big Bear City. Everyone is invited and there is no admission charge. For more information contact Doug Walton, 909 633-8314.

From E.T.’s computer……….

I’m running a bit behind getting this to you. But you know how it is when the L A Lakers are contesting the Phoenix Suns and they’re scoring toe-to-toe in three overtimes! Thank goodness for brawny Ron Artest or they still might be fighting it out. It was all worth it … Lakers – 139 YES! Suns – 137.

The news bulletins within this letter are written in brief. For more information please see ROTWnews.com or Rimoftheworld.net.
For news related information, public service announcements or photos, please send with your contact information.

GRENADE GAMES 7 TAKES OVER BIG BEAR MARCH 26-27, 2011

2011-03-18T10:28:00.000-07:00

Two-time Olympic Silver Medalist Danny Kass & His Grenade Army Ready to Conquer Bear Mountain Resort

BIG BEAR, CA - GRENADE GAMES 7 is taking over Bear Mountain Resort in Big Bear, California on March 26-27. GRENADE GAMES is the brainchild of two-time Olympic silver medalist Danny Kass. Kass holds one of the most successful competition records in snowboarding and is one of the sport’s most exciting athletes.

The snowboarding industry will meet up with the top athletes and fans to celebrate the sport in what's referred to as the ultimate in shredding, partying and utter debauchery.

RSVP to Grenade Games 7 here. - https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=187843691255718&ref=ts

GRENADE GAMES is produced by Grenade Gloves, founded by Kass in 2004. Based in Portland, Oregon, Grenade is one of the most coveted brands in the snowboarding industry for its irreverent outerwear, street-wear, and signature gloves. It has also been highly publicized for its collaboration products with other globally recognized brands, such as Oakley and Skullcandy headwear.

Grenade is sold in over forty countries and is renowned for birthing FUEL TV’s #1 rated show, “The Adventures of Danny and The Dingo,” now in its 5th season. The show profiles the on-the-go lifestyle and shenanigans of Grenade’s owner Danny Kass and Grenade-sponsored riders, including Scotty Lago, Lucas Magoon, and, of course, everyone’s favorite Aussie, The Dingo.

Past locations have included Whistler/ Blackcomb, Mammoth Mountain and The Summit at Snoqualmie, and the Games have been sponsored by New Era Caps, Monster Energy Drink, Nike, GNU and Boost Mobile.

Over the years this multi-tiered experience has successfully meshed industry celebrities, live music events, VIP after-parties and thrilling outdoor competition. Past Grenade Games attendees include snowboarding superstars Danny Kass, The Dingo, Mason Aguirre, Eric Messier, Ikka Backstrom, Eero Niemela, Dustin Craven, Gigi Ruf, Mark Sollars, Darrel Mathes, DCP and Romain DeMarchi, among others.

Follow the Grenade Gloves blog for news & updates:
www.grenadegloves.com

Caltrans Press Conference & SR 330 Tour

2011-03-18T09:47:00.000-07:00

To: Mountain Media

From: E.T. Russell

The NEWSROOM, etc

Rim of the World Marketing
909.744.0470 ~~ 909.866.5203
Rs9e@aol.com

PRESS CONFERENCE :
It was a great Tuesday for the Caltrans SR-330 Press Day Tour of the road collapse & reconstruction. A group of 22 local media (including Channel 6 and Rim of the World. Net) met with Caltrans Dr. Raymond Wolfe & Darrin Cooke for the 2-hour tour of the rebuilding project of three (3) major areas with several other minor areas under reconstruction. Combined with detailed explanations plus numerous photo opportunities, the representatives of several media gathered unlimited information that will benefit commuters traveling on State Route 330.

Highway 330 Commuters Get Good News
By Michael P. Neufeld

CalTrans has announced plans to begin one-way commuter traffic on Highway 330 in 2 to 3 weeks. The plan announced by District 8 Director Dr. Raymond Wolfe during a media tour of the roadway, calls for downbound traffic weekdays between 6 a.m. and 8 a.m. and upbound traffic between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m.

FROM JOHNNY CARSON TO BIG BEAR LAKE

2011-03-13T15:01:00.000-07:00

The artistic community in the Big Bear Valley is made up of artists with a very diverse background. Victoria Black is one of those artists whose life before Big Bear Lake consisted of modeling in New York, acting classes and being a member of Johnny Carson’s “Mighty Carson Players” on late-night television.

Black began modeling at age 16, as well as appearing in magazine ads. She married, had two children and was unexpectedly widowed with two young children. Changing her focus to acting, Black studied for three years at Warner Bros. Studios, South Coast Actors’ Studio, Director’s Lab and was privately coached by Al Vallette and Maxine Anderson, both respected acting coaches. She appeared in productions at Farrell’s Playhouse in Palm Springs and in television series in the 70’s and 80’s, such as Bob Hope Specials, Marcus Welby, M.D., Rockford Files and The Beverly Hillbillies. She posed for the well-known image of Santa Claus kneeling in adoration before the Child Jesus held by Mary. She notes that unfortunately, there are no royalties for sales of Christmas cards.

Both Black and her husband, Bruce are associated with the Civil Air Patrol, Bruce as a Major and Victoria as a Second Lieutenant. The couple met at the Burbank Airport, when Black noted that Bruce carried an NBC bag, a conversation was initiated and eventually the couple married. Since 2002, they have enjoyed living in Sugarloaf with acreage that borders the Moonridge area.

Black has a Native American heritage as well. Her great-grandfather was a White Mountain Apache and a great-grandmother was Choctaw. Old photos of Native Americans are of particular interest to her as she uses them for her portraits of Indians. Her pencil drawings capture the beauty of lives and stories untold.

She studied art in College after deciding to illustrate her own stories for children when she could not find an illustrator to meet her needs. She began participating in art shows and won awards in the Pasadena Library Art Show, as well as Verdugo Hills Art Association shows. She is featured in Who’s Who in America, Who’s Who of American Women, and Who’s Who in the World.

Black has been exhibiting her work in The Gallery, the Arts Council’s fine art Gallery at 40750 Village Drive. She loves working with pencil as it allows working with fine detail. She also enjoys block printing that uses carved images on wood block, once the block is coated with paint the paper is placed on the block so the paint can be transferred to paper. She especially loves to do animals with the Block Prints. Her cards are all originals made from the Block Print technique. She has also participated for several years in the Arts Council’s fine art show, “Art on the Lake,” now in its 12th year.

Visit The Gallery in the Village and enjoy Black’s work. The Gallery is open from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm and is staffed by the artists whose work is on exhibit. If you happen to stop in on a Tuesday, you might meet Black, as Tuesdays are the days Black prefers to staff The Gallery.

New Volunteer Orientation on WEDNESDAY, MARCH 16 from 12 noon to 1 p.m.

2011-03-07T19:07:00.000-08:00

INLAND EMPIRE--The American Cancer Society is holding a New Volunteer Orientation on WEDNESDAY, MARCH 16 from 12 noon to 1 p.m. at the Society’s offices located at 6355 Riverside Ave. in Riverside. No prior experience is necessary, but RSVP is requested.
There are many different volunteer opportunities to serve as an American Cancer Society volunteer. All volunteers are matched with specific jobs, depending on their skills, interests, and time availability.
Volunteers organize special events, advocate for public health legislation, drive cancer patients to medical treatment, helps educate school children about the dangers of tobacco use, and assist on fundraising projects. The Society offers training opportunities, challenging and new experiences, and recognition for volunteer efforts.
For more information, please contact Pat Rupert at the American Cancer Society at (951) 300-1223, or by email at Patricia.Rupert@cancer.org
To find out more about the cancer prevention, detection, treatment and recovery, call the American Cancer Society anytime at (800) ACS-2345, or visit www.cancer.org.

2011-02-28T12:44:00.000-08:00

From:
The NEWSROOM, etc
Rim of the World Marketing
909.744.0470 ~~ 909.866.5203
Rs9e@aol.com

To: San Bernardino Mountain Media Associates

Subject: Merge of Valley's Fire Depts?

CEO for Bear Valley Hospital

Local Public Service Announcements

Did you read?
Other than attending the Tuesday 22nd Special Fire Protection meeting, this is the best coverage I can offer you.
These are very important issues concerning every resident in Big Bear Valley. If you have opinions.... you need to stay informed! Our valley's needs are demanding change; our valley has & is changing. Get informed; stay involved!

Fire Agencies Consider Consolidation

Big Bear, CA - The possible consolidation of the Big Bear City Fire and Big Bear Lake Fire departments could be on track following a joint meeting of the Big Bear City Community Services District and the Big Bear Lake Fire Protection District.

Directors of both districts directed Big Bear City Fire Chief Jeff Willis, Big Bear Lake Fire Chief Rod Ballard and Assistant Chief Mark Mills to develop a strategic alliance for collaborative services and report to each district within 60 days.

CSD Chairman Jeff Newsome suggested the appointment of an executive officer to oversee the "new" consolidated fire agency and that it not be an elected official.

READ MORE on Rimoftheworld.net ..............

I also, covered the Hospital board meeting & again Rim's Michael Neufeld was 1st with the announcement of the new CEO. We at Rim have had other news reports up recently such as: Big Bear Sheriff's transfer, Hot Shot Gabriel Pomona accident, not to mention the terrible Bus Accident at Lake Gregory. Thanks to great PIO's of fire, CHP, city, county, forest service and sheriff depts who assist in getting accurate information.
If you missed the Lighthouse Summit Wednesday night, YOU MISSED a very informative, highly motivated experience. Wouldn't it be awesome that the entire mountain-folks would 'Cowboy Up' & became known as 'Peace Builders'?
Kudos to the whole Lighthouse Team & of course to my favorite miracle-videoagraphers Tom Hastain & his Big Bear Productions Staff.

Debby Sevick owner of Bear Skins in the Village and partner of John Wells is very ill. The last I heard from John she is in the hospital. Stop in & leave a get-well message to Debby.

Julie Grandi is recovering well from her hip surgery, Ellen Nichols reports.

Ron Seymour is also recovering from a stroke back at his Mountain Meadows home. His family, medical assistants & church friends are making sure he's eating well and getting the physical therapy. Wasn't that a great Round Town with Ron show this morning? Of course it will play 8:00 am & 5:00 pm on Channel 6 thru Sunday. Friends can send best wishes to Ron at P.O. Box 3953, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315.

REMEMBER to stop in at WILD WINGS UNLIMITED, 42656 Moonridge Rd., Big Bear Lake, CA. Owners Sandra & Mike say “Our decision is your gain. Starting in March, we will begin a retirement/going out of business sale. All feeders, birdhouses, birdbaths, binoculars, and gift items will be discounted at 20% with all sales being final.”

O K, I'm out of breath........ Would all of my Friends, please stay well & safe?

Take time to enjoy Life!
E T Russell

Spring Book Sale at the Library

2011-02-28T12:38:00.000-08:00

It is time again to schedule a Spring booksale at the Library and this one promises to be really special. Thanks to the generosity of the community, we have more books available than we have had for a long time and would like to pass these books on to our patrons at the usual bargain prices..
Following the past pattern, the sale will open with a “Members Only” preview night on Wednesday, March 23, from 6 - 8 PM. Potential new members who wish to join at this time are also welcome to the preview. The general public is invited to the sale for the balance of the week, Thursday and Friday from 10 AM – 6 PM and Saturday from 9 AM – 2 PM.
In addition to the books donated by the community the sale also includes many withdrawn from the collection. There will be fiction and non-fiction in hard cover as well as paperback. They will be priced very reasonably, Wednesday through Friday the prices are as follows:
Children’s books only $.25
Hardcover books $1.00
Books on tape (per tape) $.50
Audio tapes (per tape) .50
Videos or DVDs(per tape or disc)$ 2.00
CDs $1.00
Then, on Saturday, books will again be sold at $2.00 for an entire bag full.

The sale will be held at the Big Bear Lake Branch Library, 41930 Garstin Drive, Big Bear Lake, For any questions, please call the Library at 909-866-5571.

Free Telephone Classes Teach Money Skills and Nutrition for Cancer Patients

2011-02-21T15:22:00.000-08:00

Join Free by Teleconference: Pre-registration Required

The American Cancer Society offers a series of free classes by teleconference entitled “I Can Cope” for cancer patients and caregivers. The upcoming sessions are “Taking Charge of Money Matters” on Wed., March 2 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. with pre-registration by February 23; and the following class is “Nutrition During and After Cancer Treatment” on Wed., March 16 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon with pre-registration by March 9.
"I Can Cope" classes are facilitated by volunteer experts dedicated to improving the lives of cancer patients and their families. Participants can ask questions and get answers; can learn skills to manage their cancer experience; and can talk with other cancer patients and caregivers. Patients and caregivers call in from the comfort of their home or office. Self-guided classes are also available online for free at cancer.org/onlineclasses.
To pre-register and receive the call-in details, phone the Society’s toll-free number (800) ACS-2345.

Camp Beyond the Scars

2011-02-17T20:19:00.000-08:00

Approximately 80 burn-injured children will enjoy outdoor winter activities while they gain a renewed sense of self-esteem at 'Camp Beyond the Scars' during the upcoming President's Day weekend.

Sponsored by the non-profit Burn Institute-Inland Empire (BI-IE), the camp provides a relaxed social setting where burn-injured children ages 5 to 17 receive new coping skills while learning to feel better about themselves. The annual event will take place at the Presbyterian Camp and Conference Centers, Inc. in Big Bear Lake (CA) Feb. 18 - 21.

Programs for burn survivors are a vital component of the Burn Institute's mission, and Camp Beyond the Scars is its hallmark program. The winter burn camp "is a remarkable healing experience," says BI-IE Director Sherri Laffey. "During a weekend packed with fun and special activities, our primary goal is to helps transform burn victims into burn survivors."

Many of the camp counselors are off-duty firefighters, who are uniquely familiar with the challenges these children face. "For children who survive a serious burn injury, permanent scarring, social isolation and emotional trauma can linger well beyond the initial tragedy," says camp director Rick Stone, a firefighter with the Corona Fire Department. "Camp Beyond the Scars is emotional for us too, and as firefighters we look forward to it all year long."

"For many participants, winter burn camp is the first time they have seen another child with burn injuries," adds Stone. "With support and counseling provided at the camp, the kids learn to feel more positive about themselves. Then hopefully they're better able to face their injuries and achieve success in their daily lives."

Campers enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, snow sledding, skiing, and an outdoor Olympic course with many types of sports. Indoors, there's arts and crafts, cake decorating, and woodwork, not to mention dancing, singing, drama (and more !). Campers benefit from interaction with other children who have had a similar unfortunate experience, while doing what kids do best – having fun!

The cost to send a child to winter burn camp is approximately $800 per child, according to Laffey. The BI-IE, along with Fire Associations from throughout the Inland Empire, raise funds all year long to make sure every deserving child can attend.

In the fall, area firefighters were present at the NASCAR races in Fontana, where race fans "Filled the Boot" with donations. And on Black Friday, the start of the Holiday shopping season, the firefighters greeted shoppers at several retail malls with boots in-hand, again raising funds for Camp Beyond the Scars.

Last month, the BI-IE sponsored "The Race to the Camp" a fundraiser which saw 16 teams compete in a Go-Kart race at Pole Position Raceway in Corona. The teams represented area fire departments, businesses, and doctors, as well as NFL former players, who were determined to raise funds so Burn-injured kids can attend Camp Beyond the Scars.

During the year the BI-IE also receives donations of winter coats, gloves, hats and boots, and makes sure each child is dressed properly for the winter weather. "Some of these kids, if not most of them, come from low-income households, and we make sure they are properly clothed for activities in the snow and cold," says Laffey. "Many have never been in the snow before, so it’s a very special experience for them."

The work of the Burn Institute-Inland Empire (BI-IE), goes on year-round. The BI-IE is a nonprofit health agency dedicated to reducing the number of burn injuries and deaths in San Bernardino and Riverside counties. Located at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center (ARMC) in Colton CA, it reaches thousands of children and adults each year with lifesaving fire and burn prevention education; it funds vital burn research and treatment; and it conducts burn survivor support programs that help children and adults cope with the devastating psychological and physical effects of their injuries.

"Our Camp Beyond the Scars continues to made a difference in the lives of hundreds of burned-injured kids in the Inland Empire," says Laffey. "It is an experience the participants,-- campers and counselors alike, -- never forget the rest of their lives."

Media coverage of the BI-IE's Camp Beyond the Scars is both encouraged and appreciated. To make arrangements, please contact Sherri Laffey at 909-253-2102. To learn more about the BI-IE, visit our web site at www.burninstitute-ie.org.

Forest Service Mourns the Death of a Fire Captain killed in Off-duty Motor Vehicle Collision

2011-02-13T08:38:00.000-08:00

Family, friends and the Forest Service are mourning the death of Big Bear Hotshot Captain Gabriel Pomona who died as result of his injuries suffered in an off-duty motor vehicle collision.
Throughout his career, Gabriel has touched many lives and will be sadly missed. Gabriel is survived by his wife Summer and multiple family members.
Gabe started his career with the Forest Service in 1995 on the Sierra National Forest on a hand crew, then promoting to a firefighter on Sierra National Forest Engine 13. The following year Gabe followed his real passion and began working on the Sierra Hotshots, for the next three years.
Gabe came to the San Bernardino National Forest, Mountaintop Ranger District in 1999 as an apprentice, assigned to Engine 16 in Big Bear. In 2001, Gabe jumped at the opportunity to assist in the certification of the newly formed Big Bear hand crew and promoting to Squad Boss. He was one of many who contributed to the successful certification of the Big Bear Hotshots in 2003, as a type one interagency hotshot crew. In 2006, seeking further opportunities, Gabe headed back to the Sierra National Forest promoting to Captain on the Crane Valley Hotshots. Gabe always said he felt at home here on the San Bernardino National Forest especially in Big Bear. In 2008 came back to the Big Bear Hotshots as Crew Captain.
At age 36, Gabe leaves a legacy of professionalism and as a member of the Big Bear community, Gabe gave to the children of the Inland Empire through the numerous crew sponsored Christmas Bike drives.
Flowers and card’s can be sent in care of the Big Bear Ranger Station, 42300 North Shore Drive Hwy 38, P.O. Box 290 Fawnskin CA 92333, all correspondence will be forwarded to the family. Memorial Service and donation information will be forth coming.
The California Highway Patrol is investigating the traffic collision.
###

NANCY MENDOZA AND THE GALLERY

2011-02-07T13:45:00.000-08:00

Visit "The Gallery", in Big Bear Lake, from February 4h through March 2011, to view Nancy Mendoza's artwork. Ms. Mendoza has been involved with “The Gallery” since it opened in the 90's.

Her watercolors are expressive abstracts with a surprising twist of realism. Her work is fresh and full of life. Her use of colors causes the eye to dance across the page and the colors hold you in the painting. Best of all, one can look at her art and see this wonderful bold design and then see the boldest individual. Her work is enjoyable.

Nancy Mendoza has roots in the Big Bear Valley since she was born. She and husband, Joe, live in a home on property that has been owned by her family since 1912. She has visited the Big Bear Lake area every summer since childhood and she and Joe have been permanent residents for 10 years in her family home.

Nancy was one of the original artists on exhibit in The Gallery, the Arts Council’s fine art gallery on Village Drive when it was established in 2001. She has also exhibited in the Arts Council’s “Art on the Lake” fine art show since the first show in 2000. Her artwork has been on exhibit in prestigious galleries that include the Sandstone Gallery in Laguna Beach and the Ratcliff-Williams Gallery in Sedona, AZ. Her work is in private collections in the United States, Canada, Europe and Latin America.

She began taking art classes in high school and completed an art minor at Cal Berkley. Her involvement in Laguna School of the Arts began in 1976 when she rejoined the art world after raising her family. She studied with Ray Jacob, Roger Armstrong, and Sueo Serisawa, whose particular influence is evident in some of Nancy’s work on exhibit at The Gallery. The Laguna School of the Arts evolved into the Art Institute of Southern California.

Nancy has withdrawn from The Gallery as a participating artist; however several pieces of artwork will remain on exhibit and offered for sale for a period of time. A reception was held on January 28th to celebrate Nancy’s longstanding relationship with the Arts Council and the Gallery. The guest list for Nancy’s reception included fellow artists, collectors, friends and family members who visited Big Bear for the event. Arts Council President, David Leach, commented, “Nancy has been a strong supporter of The Gallery since its inception, as well as an avid supporter of the artistic community in the Big Bear Valley. She will be missed in The Gallery, but we wish her continued success.

Nancy’s work beautifully reflects her own words from her Artists Statement, “I am always excited and stimulated by the restatement of the known and the experimentation into the unknown – sometimes achieving the unexpected. The observed interpreted – improvisation based on reality.”

The Gallery is located at 40750 Village Drive and is open daily from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm.

###

Assemblyman Cook to Host Town Hall Meeting in Running Springs to Discuss Highway 330

2011-01-28T20:42:00.000-08:00

1/28/2011

SACRAMENTO - Assemblyman Paul Cook (R- Yucca Valley) will host a town hall meeting with mountain residents to discuss the recent collapse of portions of State Route 330. Several large sections of road collapsed over the holiday season following heavy storms in the region. Representatives from Caltrans, the California Highway Patrol, and the US Forest Service will also attend the meeting. It will be held at the Hootman Community Center located at 2929 Running Springs School Road in Running Springs at 6:00 PM on Thursday, February 3.

The largest collapse occurred near Running Springs, removing a portion of the hill and taking a section of State Route 330 with it. The collapse caused the shutdown of the highway for what will likely be at least the remainder of the winter. There is worry that other sections of the highway may be unstable as well.

On January 7, Cook met with Caltrans District 8 Director Ray Wolfe and other emergency officials, before going on a site tour to survey the damage and ensure public safety. The first $6 million contract to begin roadway repairs was signed by Caltrans several hours after Cook's visit.

On January 14, Cook met with local officials and community leaders from Big Bear and Running Springs to discuss the ongoing repair effort as well as ways to mitigate the economic damage to the mountain communities. Cook vowed to push for quick action and to facilitate cooperation from the federal government. On January 26, President Obama declared a major disaster area in San Bernardino county, which will make federal disaster aid available for State Route 330.

"While I've met with state and local officials, it's essential that I speak directly with local residents," Cook declared. "I want to do everything in my power to not only expedite the repairs of Highway 330, but assist my constituents who have been affected by this disaster. Specifically, we need to work on better signage to get visitors up to the mountain communities and on providing relief for local business owners."
John Sobel 916-319-2065

Volunteers Needed for Bighorn Sheep Survey

2011-01-18T17:57:00.000-08:00

San Bernardino, Calif., January 18, 2011 –Volunteers are needed to assist in the annual bighorn sheep survey in the San Gabriel Mountains on the San Bernardino National Forest the weekend of February 26-27.

If you are interested, you will attend an orientation class Saturday night, and rise early on Sunday to hike into the local mountains, spending the day counting and recording bighorn sheep. No previous experience is required; however, you must be at least 16 years old and be prepared to hike at least one mile in steep rocky terrain. “It is a great way to get out, enjoy your national forest, and have the chance to view wildlife that most in southern California have not seen before,” District Biologist Kathie Meyer said.

In general, hikes will not be along trails and accessing survey points will involve scrambling over boulders, climbing up steep slopes, and/or bush-whacking through chaparral. Mountain weather can be unpredictable and participants need to be prepared for an early start on Sunday and spending several hours hiking and additional time making observations in often cold and windy weather.

Where to meet: Volunteers must attend a mandatory orientation on Saturday, February 26, at 6:00 PM at Day Creek Intermediate School in Rancho Cucamonga.

What to wear: Sturdy hiking footwear is necessary, since the terrain is often steep, rocky and un-even. Dress in layers, since weather conditions may change with little warning.

What to Bring: Observers should bring binoculars or spotting scopes (if they have them) in addition to hiking gear. Bring water and lunch for the all day count on Sunday.

Overnight Camping: Complimentary campsites will be available to volunteers on a first-come-first served basis. Camping will be at the Applewhite Campground in Lytle Creek on the night of February 26, 2011.

Volunteer Groups: We will provide a representative from one of the participating partners to lead your group during the count.

Please give us a call at (909) 382-2870 by February 17, to sign up and receive a volunteer packet.

Sheep Count Information and History

The US Forest Service, California Department of Fish and Game, and the Society for Conservation of Bighorn Sheep have conducted surveys for bighorn sheep in the San Gabriel range annually since 1979. The mountain range once held an estimated 740 bighorn sheep, which made the San Gabriel population the largest population of desert bighorn sheep in California. The bighorn population declined over 80% through the 1980 has but appears to be on the increase with recent estimates yielding approximately 350 animals.

For additional information about the San Bernardino National Forest, please visit: http://www.fs.usda.gov/sbnf

BALD EAGLES SEEN IN LOCAL MOUNTAINS

2011-01-15T19:42:00.000-08:00

On Saturday January 8th, the second bald eagle count of the winter was conducted by local Federal and State biologists and volunteers around lakes in the San Bernardino and San Jacinto Mountains. This marks the 32nd year that the San Bernardino National Forest has organized monthly winter bald eagle counts! Clear skies and cool temperatures provided optimal conditions for volunteers hoping to observe one of our magnificent national birds. The effort was successful in tallying the bald eagles spending their winter vacations at local mountain lakes.

A grand total of 11 eagles (7 adults, 4 juveniles) were observed at the lake areas during the 1- hour count. Five eagles (3 adults, 2 juveniles) were observed in the Big Bear/Baldwin Lake area. One adult eagle at Lake Arrowhead, one juvenile at Lake Gregory, and three eagles (2 adults, 1 juvenile) at Silverwood Lake were observed during the one hour census. While no eagles were observed at Lake Hemet during the count, one adult was observed at Lake Perris. Juvenile eagles are distinguished by a brown head and tail; adults are recognized by the famous white head and tail - it takes 4-5 years to acquire full adult coloration. Juvenile eagles are the same size as the adults.

Approximately 166 volunteers participated in the 1-hour eagle census (57 at Big Bear area, 20 at Lake Arrowhead/Lake Gregory, 8 at Lake Hemet, 50 at Silverwood Lake, and 31 at Lake Perris). The Forest Service and State Recreation Area biologists would like to thank those volunteers for their participation!

There are two remaining Eagle counts for this winter, scheduled for the following Saturday mornings: February 12, and March 12. Mark your calendars now.
No experience needed. Volunteers should dress warmly and bring binoculars and a watch.
• Big Bear Lake area volunteers will meet at 8:00 a.m. at the Big Bear Discovery Center on North Shore Drive. Contact Marc Stamer at 909-382-2828 for more information.
• Lake Arrowhead/Lake Gregory volunteers will meet at 8:00 a.m. at the Sky Forest Ranger Station. Contact Marc Stamer, Wildlife Biologist, at 909-382-2828 for more information.
• Silverwood Lake State Park volunteers should contact the park office for information during business hours of 8:00 am to 4:00 pm at 760-389-2281, and plan to meet at the Visitor Center at 8:00 a.m.
• Lake Hemet volunteers should plan on meeting at the Lake Hemet Grocery Store at 8:30 a.m. for instructions. Contact Ann Poopatanapong at 909-382-2935 for more information.
• Lake Perris State Park volunteers should contact the park office for information at 951-940-5600, and plan to meet at the Lake Perris Regional Indian Museum.
For additional information about the San Bernardino National Forest, please visit: http://www.fs.usda.gov/sbnf

###

Background
The U.S. Forest Service and State Recreation Area biologists have coordinated counts of this federally-protected species since 1978. Data from our local count will be added to the nation-wide Mid-Winter Bald Eagle census to assess recovery status of the species. We rely on volunteers to gather information during the monthly winter eagle counts. Counts are conducted for a 1-hour period from 9-10 a.m. Forest Service volunteers stationed around lakes in Big Bear, Arrowhead, and Idyllwild record all observations of bald eagles. Volunteers at Silverwood Lake and Lake Perris State Recreation Areas conduct simultaneous counts.

Bald eagles are similar to many southern Californians in that they visit the lakes of our San Bernardino and San Jacinto Mountains for their winter vacations between November and April. Instead of vacationing here for dynamite skiing, eagles come for the plentiful food supplies. As lakes and rivers up north freeze each winter, fish become unavailable under a thick layer of ice and ducks leave the frozen waters. The eagles' "grocery stores" have essentially closed for the winter. So eagles fly south looking for open water stocked with food. The lakes of the San Bernardino and San Jacinto Mountains fit the bill perfectly--they are part of the Pacific Migratory Flyway, a migration freeway for millions of ducks. Eagles like to spend their winters here because of the abundant and tasty ducks and fish.

Our bald eagles normally migrate out of the San Bernardino and San Jacinto Mountains in late March, heading back to summer homes in Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, and Alberta, Canada. In recent years, a pair of bald eagles has remained at Lake Hemet and successfully produced several eaglets.

Catching a glimpse of our breath-taking national bird is relatively easy during the winter months. There are also some fantastic opportunities for excellent close-up photography. Just look in the tallest trees around the lakeshore. Or, if the lake is partially frozen, look for eagles perched on the ice near small groups of ducks using open water pockets.

Remember that human presence may distract or disturb the eagles--so, try to limit your movements and don't make loud noises when nearby. If possible, remain in your car while observing eagles--the car acts as a blind.

Winter Operating Schedule for San Bernardino National Forest Offices

2010-12-24T17:33:00.000-08:00

San Bernardino, Calif., November 30, 2010 – The San Bernardino National Forest has moved into the new winter operating schedule for ranger stations, visitor centers and offices.
San Bernardino National Forest Headquarters
602 S. Tippecanoe Avenue, San Bernardino, 909-382-2600
The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Arrowhead Ranger Station
28104 State Highway 18, Skyforest, 909-382-2758
The Ranger Station is open Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Closed on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Children’s Forest Visitor Center
State Highway 18, east of Running Springs in Arrowbear.
The visitor center closed for the winter season.

Barton Flats Visitor Center
State Highway 38 east of Angelus Oaks
The visitor center closed for the winter season.

Big Bear Discovery Center
41397 North Shore Drive, Highway 38, Fawnskin, 909-382-2790
The Discovery Center is open Friday through Tuesday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The Discovery Center is closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Idyllwild Ranger Station
54270 Pine Crest, Idyllwild, 909-382-2922
Hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (closed noon to 12:30 p.m.), Saturday and Sunday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
The Ranger Station is closed on Thursdays.

Lytle Creek Ranger Station
1209 Lytle Creek Road, Lytle Creek, 909-382-2851
Hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., may be closed for lunch from 12:00-1:00 p.m.
Ranger Station closed on Wednesday s and Thursdays

Mill Creek Ranger Station
34701 Mill Creek Road, Mentone, 909-382-2882
Open Thursday through Monday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., may be closed for lunch from 12:00-1:00 pm.
Ranger Station closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Visitor Center
51500 Highway 74, Palm Desert, 760-862-9984
Open seven days a week 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Forest visitor should call ahead on holiday weekdays to confirm office hours and days of operation. Forest offices may close during inclement weather.

For additional information on-line about the San Bernardino National Forest, please visit us at: http://www.fs.usda.gov/sbnf

The mission of the US Forest Service is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the Nation's forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations. The Agency manages 193 million acres of public land, provides assistance to State and private landowners, and maintains the largest forestry research organization in the world.

Contact: John Miller (909) 382-2788

CHARITABLE GIVING TO AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY GIVES HOLIDAY CHEER IN INLAND EMPIRE

2010-12-24T17:30:00.000-08:00

Donations and volunteers help support free services and programs for cancer patients this holiday season and all year-round

As budgets are still a concern and the holidays are here the American Cancer Society – which has provided free services and created a world with more birthdays to tens of millions of cancer patients over its 97-year history – is reaching out for help.
“Cancer doesn’t wait and we don’t want our patients to have to, said Richard Jarvis, volunteer chair of the American Cancer Society’s Inland Empire Community Council. “During the cooler months patients who lose their hair from chemotherapy need wigs and head coverings offered by the Society both to maintain body heat and to improve self-esteem. Many patients also need our free door-to-door transportation every day. They can’t just skip chemotherapy or radiation because they don’t have a ride,” Jarvis continued.
Although the Society has been in existence for almost a century and is one of the most recognized and well-respected charities in the world, there’s a common misperception that the Society is immune to economic challenges. Many mistakenly believe the Society receives government funding to sustain its groundbreaking cancer research, prevention, education and patient services program. In fact, the American Cancer Society is supported almost entirely by private donations.
“Even the smallest donation makes a huge difference in the life of a cancer patient,” Jarvis emphasized. “No contribution of money or time is too small.” All donations are tax deductible.
As a donor to the American Cancer Society you can provide support to cancer patients and their families in your community. With your gift, the Society will be able to offer a broad range of essential programs and services at no cost to the recipient, such as:

$75 - Gift Coupons for our “tlc” product catalog provide women battling cancer with a wig or other personal care item. One wig or personal care item = $75*

$100 - Transportation assistance is available for patients in need to cancer-related appointments.
Eight round trips to and from appointments=$100*

$500 - Cancer patients sometimes need to travel long distances and stay away from home for long periods of time near their treatment facility. A donation helps to provide lodging near the patient’s treatment center.
Seven nights of lodging = $500*

$1,000 - American Cancer Society Cancer Prevention Study-3 will help researchers better understand the lifestyle, environmental, and genetic factors that cause or prevent cancer, and will further our efforts to eliminate cancer as a major health concern for future generations. Engaging 16 people in the long-term study = $1,000*

$2,000 - Breast cancer treatment may include surgery to remove part or all of a breast, which can result in major changes in body image. A certificate for a prosthesis and a bra for 10 patients = $2,000*

$5,000 – Reach to Recovery trained, certified volunteers provide patients with the critical support they need to cope with a breast cancer diagnosis. A visit, which includes an information kit and temporary prosthesis to 58 breast cancer patients = $5,000*

The American Cancer Society also offers a variety of volunteer opportunities. Give the gift of time as a Society volunteer at a local office or by participating in a community event to help fight cancer. For more information about how to volunteer or make a donation call 800.227.2345 or visit cancer.org.

About the American Cancer Society

The American Cancer Society combines an unyielding passion with nearly a century of experience to save lives and end suffering from cancer. As a global grassroots force of more than three million volunteers, we fight for every birthday threatened by every cancer in every community. We save lives by helping people stay well by preventing cancer or detecting it early; helping people get well by being there for them during and after a cancer diagnosis; by finding cures through investment in groundbreaking discovery; and by fighting back by rallying lawmakers to pass laws to defeat cancer and by rallying communities worldwide to join the fight. As the nation’s largest non-governmental investor in cancer research, contributing about $3.4 billion, we turn what we know about cancer into what we do. As a result, about 11 million people in America who have had cancer and countless more who have avoided it will be celebrating birthdays this year. To learn more about us or to get help, call us any time, day or night, at 1-800-227-2345 or visit cancer.org.

Winter Operating Schedule

2010-12-23T13:59:00.000-08:00

Contact: John Miller (909) 382-2788

San Bernardino National Forest Offices
San Bernardino, Calif., November 30, 2010 – The San Bernardino National Forest has moved into the new winter operating schedule for ranger stations, visitor centers and offices.
San Bernardino National Forest Headquarters
602 S. Tippecanoe Avenue, San Bernardino, 909-382-2600
The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Arrowhead Ranger Station
28104 State Highway 18, Skyforest, 909-382-2758
The Ranger Station is open Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Closed on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Children’s Forest Visitor Center
State Highway 18, east of Running Springs in Arrowbear.
The visitor center closed for the winter season.

Barton Flats Visitor Center
State Highway 38 east of Angelus Oaks
The visitor center closed for the winter season.

Big Bear Discovery Center
41397 North Shore Drive, Highway 38, Fawnskin, 909-382-2790
The Discovery Center is open Friday through Tuesday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The Discovery Center is closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Idyllwild Ranger Station
54270 Pine Crest, Idyllwild, 909-382-2922
Hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (closed noon to 12:30 p.m.), Saturday and Sunday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
The Ranger Station is closed on Thursdays.

Lytle Creek Ranger Station
1209 Lytle Creek Road, Lytle Creek, 909-382-2851
Hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., may be closed for lunch from 12:00-1:00 p.m.
Ranger Station closed on Wednesday s and Thursdays

Mill Creek Ranger Station
34701 Mill Creek Road, Mentone, 909-382-2882
Open Thursday through Monday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., may be closed for lunch from 12:00-1:00 pm.
Ranger Station closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Visitor Center
51500 Highway 74, Palm Desert, 760-862-9984
Open seven days a week 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Forest visitor should call ahead on holiday weekdays to confirm office hours and days of operation. Forest offices may close during inclement weather.

For additional information on-line about the San Bernardino National Forest, please visit us at: http://www.fs.usda.gov/sbnf

The mission of the US Forest Service is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the Nation's forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations. The Agency manages 193 million acres of public land, provides assistance to State and private landowners, and maintains the largest forestry research organization in the world.
###

BALD EAGLES SEEN IN LOCAL MOUNTAINS

2010-12-20T16:23:00.000-08:00

On Saturday December 18, the first bald eagle count of the winter was conducted by local Federal and State biologists and volunteers around lakes in the San Bernardino and San Jacinto Mountains. This marks the 32nd year that the San Bernardino National Forest has organized monthly winter bald eagle counts! The cloudy, wet winter weather provided challenging conditions for volunteers hoping to observe one of our magnificent national birds. The effort was successful in tallying the bald eagles spending their winter vacations at local mountain lakes.

A grand total of 5 eagles (5 adults) were observed at the lake areas during the 1- hour count. Two eagles (2 adults) were observed in the Big Bear/Baldwin Lake area; 1 eagle (1 adult) at Lake Arrowhead/Lake Gregory; and 1 eagle (1 adult) at Silverwood Lake. While no eagles were observed at Lake Hemet, 1 adult was observed at Lake Perris. Juvenile eagles are distinguished by a brown head and tail; adults are recognized by the famous white head and tail - it takes 4-5 years to acquire full adult coloration. Juvenile eagles are the same size as the adults.

Approximately 52 volunteers participated in the 1-hour eagle census (18 at Big Bear area, 3 at Lake Arrowhead/Lake Gregory, 2 at Lake Hemet, 11 at Silverwood Lake, and 18 at Lake Perris). The Forest Service and State Recreation Area biologists would like to thank those volunteers for their participation!

There are three remaining Eagle counts for this winter, scheduled for the following Saturday mornings: January 8, February 12, and March 12. Mark your calendars now.
No experience needed. Volunteers should dress warmly and bring binoculars and a watch.
Big Bear Lake area volunteers will meet at 8:00 a.m. at the Big Bear Discovery Center on North Shore Drive. Contact Marc Stamer at 909-382-2828 for more information.
Lake Arrowhead/Lake Gregory volunteers will meet at 8:00 a.m. at the Sky Forest Ranger Station. Contact Marc Stamer, Wildlife Biologist, at 909-382-2828 for more information.
Silverwood Lake State Park volunteers should contact the park office for information during business hours of 8:00 am to 4:00 pm at 760-389-2281, and plan to meet at the Visitor Center at 8:00 a.m.
Lake Hemet volunteers should plan on meeting at the Lake Hemet Grocery Store at 8:30 a.m. for instructions. Contact Ann Poopatanapong at 909-382-2935 for more information.
Lake Perris State Park volunteers should contact the park office for information at 951-940-5600, and plan to meet at the Lake Perris Regional Indian Museum.

For additional information about the San Bernardino National Forest, please visit: http://www.fs.usda.gov/sbnf

###

Marc Stamer, Biologist
Mountaintop Ranger District
Forest BAER Coordinator
San Bernardino National Forest
P.O. Box 290
42300 North Shore Drive
Big Bear Ranger Station
Fawnskin, CA 92333-0290

Office: (909)382-2828
Cell: (909)844-6683
Fax: (909)866-2867

Doors Reopen to State’s Breast Cancer Screening Program

2010-12-01T13:12:00.000-08:00

American Cancer Society Encourages Women to Apply

SACRAMENTO – December 1, 2010 – The California Department of Public Health has reopened enrollment to breast cancer screening in the Every Woman Counts program, which screens low-income women for breast and cervical cancers. The program had not been accepting new enrollments since January 1, 2010. It had also limited eligibility to women aged 50 and over and had limited women to one mammogram every two years. With the reopening, the program will once again be available to women starting at age 40 and will cover an annual mammogram. These changes align with the American Cancer Society screening guidelines.

The following is a statement from Alecia Sanchez, American Cancer Society, California Division’s Director of State Legislative Advocacy:

“The American Cancer Society is relieved that tens of thousands of women will once again have access to lifesaving breast cancer screening through the Every Woman Counts program. We spent the last year advocating for the reopening of enrollment and to ensure that the program’s services aligned with our screening guidelines because mammograms save lives. We are thrilled that the Legislature appropriated the money to allow the program to both re-open and incorporate best practices. We hope the last year, when new enrollments were curtailed and eligibility was limited, is a blip in the program’s history that will not be repeated. In the meantime, we celebrate the reopening of enrollment and we encourage women who have not been able to receive their annual mammogram because of lack of insurance coverage and who think they meet the income eligibility to apply for screening under the reinvigorated Every Woman Counts program.”

Here is a link to the CDPH statement: http://www.cdph.ca.gov/Pages/NR10-096.aspx

Beckie Moore Flati | Marketing Communication Director
Border Sierra Region, California | American Cancer Society, Inc.
Inland Empire Office, 6355 Riverside Ave., Riverside, CA 92506 | cancer.org
714.779.8104 | mobile: 714.697.8666

Tussock Moth and Bark Beetle meeting set for December 8 Big Bear Civic Center 10:00 a.m.

2010-11-30T02:07:00.000-08:00

The public is invited to a Douglas-fir tussock moth and bark beetle informational session at the Big Bear Civic Center on December 8.

U.S. Forest Service and CalFire entomologists are presenting information on the tussock moth infestation and a seasonal update on bark beetle activity in the Big Bear valley. Entomologists and foresters will be providing information for residents that may have tree species susceptible to tussock moth such as Blue Spruce and Douglas-fir.

When: Wednesday, December 8 2010: Time: 10 am to 10:45 am,
Location: Big Bear Civic Center – Hofert Hall, 39707 Big Bear Blvd. Big Bear Lake, CA
http://www.citybigbearlake.com/

Fire Restrictions Reduced on the San Bernardino National Forest

2010-11-22T14:02:00.000-08:00

With recent rain across the southland, forest officials on the San Bernardino National Forest reduced fire restrictions today.

Under the reduced fire restrictions, visitors may have wood and charcoal fires in agency-provided campfire rings at campgrounds, picnic areas and yellow post sites. Recreational target shooting is permitted within designated sites in the Big Bear area and San Jacinto Ranger District.

“With the recent storms and snow across the mountains, the fire danger has lowered, however I want to remind folks to continue to be fire safe and vigilant year-round,” said Forest Supervisor Tom Gillett.

Current fire restriction and guidelines in effect on the San Bernardino National Forest are as follows:
• Wood and charcoal campfires are allowed only in developed campgrounds, picnic areas and Yellow Post campsites within agency-provided fire rings or designated stoves.

• Campfire permits are required for propane and gas stoves and lanterns used outside of developed recreation sites.

• Recreational shooting is limited to designated sites and public shooting ranges operated under special use permit only, except those engaged in legal hunting.

• The 1N09 Recreational Shooting area remains closed.

• An approved spark arrester is required for any internal combustion engine operated on designated forest routes. These include chainsaws, generators, motorcycles, and off-highway vehicles.

• Smoking is limited to enclosed vehicles, developed recreation sites and areas cleared of vegetation, three feet in diameter.

• Fireworks are always prohibited on the San Bernardino National Forest. Tracer, armor piercing, steel core, and Teflon ammunitions are also prohibited, as is discharging a firearm at any exploding target.
Forest visitors are encouraged to “Know Before You Go” and call ahead to the local Ranger Station to check on location conditions and restrictions.
Arrowhead Ranger Station 909-382-2758
Big Bear Ranger Station & Discovery Center 909-382-2790
Lytle Creek Ranger Station 909-382-2851
Idyllwild Ranger Station 909-382-2922
Mill Creek Ranger Station 909-382-2882
Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monument 760-862-9984
For additional information about the San Bernardino National Forest, please visit: http://www.fs.usda.gov/sbnf
Contact: John Miller (909) 382-2788

2011 Greenthumbs Volunteer Program Schedule

2010-11-22T13:54:00.000-08:00

San Bernardino, Calif., November 22, 2010 – The U.S. Forest Service is seeking volunteers of all ages who enjoy working outdoors and have an interest in working in the greenhouse and out on the Forest in our native plant restoration program.
Since the early 1990s, the Greenthumbs Volunteer Program on the San Bernardino National Forest has actively help restore disturbed lands across hundreds of acres of the Mountaintop Ranger District. Volunteers manage the Native Plant Nursery at the Big Bear Ranger Station, which, through private grant funds, has grown and out-planted thousands of native plants to benefit habitat for wildlife and federally listed plants and animals, and to improve watershed conditions on the National Forest. The nursery has a commercial-size greenhouse, a lathe house and a seed storage facility.
Volunteers in the program learn a variety of nursery activities such as seed collection, germination, plant propagation, site preparation, weed removal and out-planting of potted materials. Activities vary from month to month as the seasons and weather change.
How to get involved:
• Join us once a month on the third Saturday of each month (March through October) to conduct ecological restoration projects in the Big Bear Ranger Station Native Plant Nursery and around the Big Bear Valley on the San Bernardino National Forest. Work includes seed collection and germination, native plant propagation, noxious weed removal, and out-planting on the forest.
• Greenthumbs days are planned for March 19, April 16, May 21, June 18, July 16, August 20, September 17, and October 15th., 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
• Please be sure to bring a sack lunch, water, work gloves (if you have them), a jacket, and sunscreen.
• Please contact Linda Stamer at (909) 382-2824 or email Linda at lstamer@fs.fed.us, to verify your participation. The Big Bear Ranger Station is located at 42300 North Shore/Hwy 38 in Fawnskin, ¼ mile east of the Big Bear Discovery Center.
Contact: John Miller (909) 382-2788

###

Moonridge Animal Park’s Winter “Hibernation” Schedule

2010-11-19T13:57:00.000-08:00

As of Labor Day Weekend on September 6, 2010, The Moonridge Animal Park has switched to their winter schedule. Weather permitting the park will be open daily except on Christmas Day. If heavy snow or icy conditions exist the park will be closed. You may call the Moonridge Animal Park (909) 584-1299 or the Friends of the Moonridge Zoo (909) 878-4200 to check on whether or not the park is open to visitors. Otherwise, the winter park open hours are Monday-Friday 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and Saturday-Sunday open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Noon animal presentations will occur daily, and the Animal Keeper Feeding Tours will be held on just Saturdays and Sundays at 3:00 pm. The summer schedule will start again on Memorial weekend in May 2011.

The Moonridge Animal Park is Big Bear’s wildlife animal sanctuary, rehabilitation and education center founded in 1959. During the past year the Moonridge Animal Park has been celebrating 50 Years of Sanctuary, Rehabilitation and Education. The Moonridge Animal Park provides a “Home For Life” to over 180 animals representing 85 species.

Reception and Book Sign by Barbara Jordan, Wild Life Photographer

2010-11-05T14:58:00.000-07:00

Book “The Beauty of the Moment”
Saturday, November 6, 6 P.M.
Wine and Light snacks will be served.
No RSVP needed
The Arts Council of Big Bear Valley
40750 Village Drive

The Arts Council of Big Bear Valley is pleased to host Barbara Jordan's Book signing in Big Bear Valley. Barbara has been with the Arts Council Gallery since its opening day in 2002 providing us with her unique photographs of wildlife from all of North America.

Her new book “The Beauty of the Moment” features beautiful images of landscapes, wildlife and flowers captured during her travels around North America. Barbara's adventures have brought her face to face with grizzly bears in Alaska, whales in Mexico, and taken her above the Arctic Circle to photograph the Aurora Borealis. Here in Big Bear she has photograph a cougar who stalked her as she was out working.

An excerpt from Barbara's book says it all, “I hope in some way this book will help remind you of how precious and beautiful life is. That it will make you want to help preserve this beautiful world for your children and grandchildren. That you will remember to live in the moment. It passes so quickly.”

Recently, in the Gallery, she has been experimenting successfully with photography on canvas. This style of photography allows the collectors to hang the work without frames or in a minimal frame. She has been working with photo enhancement techniques that provide new artistic approaches to her artistic skills.

Barbara’s fine art prints are in collections around the world. She is represented by Getty Images, the largest stock agency in the world. Currently two of her images can be seen on the National Geographic website in the Yosemite National Park gallery and the Zion gallery. Another of Barbara’s images can be seen on the tail of a First Air of Canada air livery.

A preview of Barbara’s book is available online at http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/1117991 or on her website at www.barbarajordan.com .

Join us all at the Gallery, November 6, at 6 P.M. For wine and appetizers and congratulate her on her successful completion of “The Beauty of the Moment”. Barbara will be present to sign all copies sold.

Flower Arrangements and Holiday Decorations

2010-11-05T14:52:00.000-07:00

The Friends of the Big Bear Valley Library will sponsor a very timely program, just in time for Halloween. On November 20, Paula Fashempour, owner of The Little Greenhouse Florist and Antiques, will demonstrate special flower arrangements and how to make your home festive for the Holidays. She will also show many ways to save money and how to do it yourself!
Paula has owned and operated The Little Greenhouse for many years and is known throughout the Valley for her artistic and tasteful arrangements. She will be sharing these talents with the audience.
Linda is sometimes referred to as “The Bat Lady”, based on her extensive knowledge of the subject. She has done considerable research about different types of bats and likes to present them as friendly creatures.
The program will be held at the Big Bear Lake Branch Library, 41930 Garstin Drive, Big Bear Lake on Saturday, November 20, at 2 PM. It is open to the general public at no charge. Seating is limited and early arrival is recommended. For any questions, please call the library at 909-866-5571.

Holiday Follies - Saturday, December 4

2010-11-05T09:40:00.000-07:00

The Arts Council of Big Bear Valley is sponsoring a Benefit Performance for “Music and Art in the Big Bear Valley”, at the Performing Arts Center, at 7 pm. This one night performance will feature the following artists: vocalists - Elaine Fitzpatrick, Elena Peavy and Diane Sloan; Instrumentalists: Cellist: Sharon Rizzo and her “Orpheus String Ensemble”; Pianists: Glenda Beukelman, Barbara King and Ingrid Olsen and on the Flute Lisa Waner. All of these performers have been appearing throughout the summer at "Music at the Mansion" and have delighted their audiences.
Tickets available from the Arts Council – 909-585-5916 or from the Performing Arts Center 909 – 866- 4970. Prices are $20 adults; $15 seniors; $10 students.

Topography, Wildlife and Climate

2010-10-24T18:56:00.000-07:00

This information was published originally in the 2nd annual Chamber Guide, originated and published by Big Bear Magazine in 2005. Written by Joan Carlson.

Big Bear is located 100 miles east of Los Angeles in the San Bernardino National Forest, home to towering oaks, forest pines and the San Gorgonio Wilderness, the highest peak between the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range and the Mexican border at 11,400 feet. The wild lands of the San Bernardino Mountain Range were designated National Forest more than a hundred years ago. The forest contains approximately 672,000 acres with approximately 150 acres of wilderness trails, 352 acres of hiking, equestrian and biking trails, 23 acres of family campgrounds, 13 acres of picnic areas, 71 animal species and 85 plant species.
This area of the San Bernardino National Forest is home to the mountain lion, coyote, bald eagle, deer, black bear and hawk. One of the best places to view wildlife in Big Bear is at the Stanfield Cut-off, the causeway that crosses the eastern portion of Big Bear Lake. In the winter, watch for bald eagles and throughout the year you can see white pelicans, coots, great white herons, and mergansers.
Big Bear weather conditions provide unparalleled opportunities for solitude year round with an average of 320 days of sunshine a year. Big Bear temperatures can vary greatly with average daytime temperatures ranging from 48.0 degrees in January to 81.0 degrees in July. Precipitation occurs mostly between November and April with possible heavy snowfall in January and February. A normal winter season can bring 120” of snowfall. Summers are pleasantly warm and dry with the exception of possible mountain thunderstorms later in the season.
Late spring and summer provide a colorful array of natural flowering vegetation, including the lupine, Indian paintbrush and the California wild rose. The corn lily, lemon lily, and leopard lily can be observed by the adventuresome hiker along streams, in meadows, and nestled among the mountain trails. A high desert climate is characteristic of the eastern part of Big Bear and Cactus Flats. This area contains pockets of marshes, springs, meadows and wetlands making Big Bear one of the most diversified habitats in the world.

Special Holiday Book Sale at the Library

2010-10-22T19:48:00.000-07:00

The Holidays are coming, and so are the long winter evenings! So the Friends of the Library came up with a great solution to help with both. Responding to requests from so many of our patrons, we have scheduled a 2-day special event, November 5 and 6.
The books for sale at this event are specially selected volumes, hard cover and trade books, ranging in price from $1.00 up to a maximum of $10.00. They include both fiction and non-fiction and many will make excellent holiday gifts.
This sale will NOT follow the usual pattern – there is no preview night and there is no sale of books by the bag. The prices will apply for the entire two days and the sale is open to the public for the duration, Friday, November 5 from 10 A.M. to 6 P.M. and Saturday from 9 A.M. to 5 P.M.
The event will be held at the Big Bear Lake Branch Library, 41930 Garstin Drive, Big Bear Lake. For any questions, please call the Library at 909-866-5571.

It's a whole new on-line magazine

2010-10-14T12:52:00.000-07:00

October 14, 2010
Dear Readers:
We couldn't be more thrilled to introduce you to the new, improved on-line version of Big Bear Magazine. We've spent months with consultants, gone through hours of training for the internet, and believe we have produced one of the most unique, easy to use and understand websites for Big Bear followers. We are working with national webmasters who provide 24 hour tech support, and are available seven days a week. That gives us the most efficient website in the Valley, with the easiest access to changing and adding new information. We are heavily marketing the website, both nationally and locally, and will continue marketing with our exclusive audience of 2nd homeowners, as well as so much more. We will continue to update our stories from the last 15 years through "The Blog" and look forward to participation from our readers. Advertisers in BigBearMagazine.com are simply a click away, as readers click directly to websites from our innovative website design. We will also be offering our advertisers special "social networking" opportunities. Take a look at BigBearMagazine.com. We shall be in touch shortly, to discuss numerous opportunities for your marketing success.
Barbara Scharnhorst, Publisher
Chad Scharnhorst, Associate Publisher

Hugs from Home

2010-09-28T16:49:00.000-07:00

This story was originally published in 1995. Please email us at bigbearmagazine@gmail.com, if you have any updates to the story or people involved.
Thank you, Barbara Scharnhorst

The 28 members of the Big Bear Knitting, Crocheting and Sewing Group are a part of a nationwide organization called the Ships Project. They have been busy creating hand-knitted hats and slippers and cool-ties for the men and women serving in the military.
Founded in 2001, the Ships Project was the brainchild of one woman, Ellen Harpin. Responding to a letter requesting warm handcrafted items for the crew of the U.S.S. Bataan, Harpin began knitting slippers and hats for the sailors. Since then the project has grown with more than 1,000 individuals, as well as dozens of church and civic groups supporting the project. As of March 2005, the Ships Project has sent over 140,000 items to the troops.
Laurie Nahay started the Big Bear group in May of 2003. Soon she had two more recruits, Joy Traylor and Julie Delgado. Together these women started knitting hats for the troops and meeting once a month to collect the hats and mail them to Harpin in Florida where the hats are divided up and shipped to the troops.
“We take our knitting every place we go. People often ask us what are we knitting for and that’s when we explain the Ships Project,” said Nahay, whose son, Joshua Jansen is in the Navy.
The Big Bear group has continued to grow over the past two years, producing between 75 and 100 hats per month. After the hats are received by the troops, they will often write back to Harpin with stories and thanks. Harpin passes on these e-mails to the groups around the country.
One of Delgado’s favorite thank you notes said, “Thanks for sending big hats cuz some of us have big heads.”
“Belonging to this group and knitting hats and slippers for our troops makes you feel like you are supporting our country. There really is something you can do from home that helps,” said Nahay.
The knitted hats are worn under helmets, are slept in and worn for fun on crazy hat Fridays. Hospital patients are given hats as well to keep them warm while they are recuperating. The troops have named the hats, “Hugs from Home.” Ships send requests to Harpin and let her know the number of hats they need. A new request came in for 650 hats per month from the USS Kearsarge, a large deck ship that carries Marines, helicopters and sailors. They have as many as 4,500 men and women aboard including a large hospital.
In addition to keeping up with the demand for hats and slippers, donations are needed for postage as well. Postage costs to ship boxes of hats so far have topped $70,000. Those interested in joining the Ships Project have a number of options open to them. To join the Big Bear Group contact Laurie Nahay 909.866.9652 or Julie Delgado 909.585.6668. Visit the Ships Project Web site at http://www.theshipsproject.com to find out how to start a group or find other groups in different locations or send a donation for postage to: Ellen Harpin, P.O. Box 564, Goldenrod, FL 32733-0564.
 Christie Walker
 © 2005 Big Bear Magazine, All Rights Reserved

Extreeeeeeme Sports

2010-09-11T20:22:00.000-07:00

Photo: left – Paul Romero, Karen Lundgren and Ted Devito. photo by Sandy Steers

Photo: center - Lundgren presses on.
Courtesy of SOLE Custom Footbeds, www.yoursole.com .

By Sandy Steers

Ready. Set. Go. And go. And go. And go. And go. For 24, 36, or 48 hours, five, eight or 11 days, it’s non-stop; it’s an adventure race! And one of the top five adventure racing teams in the world is headquartered right here in Big Bear.
Karen Lundgren, Paul Romero and Ted Devito, all of Big Bear, along with Darren Clarke, of Australia, form Team Epinephrine, or “Team Epi,” for short. “Adventure racing is a team, multi-sport, ultra-distance, non-stop expedition competition,” says Paul Romeo, who has been racing the longest of the team members. Lundgren has been racing with him for seven years. Devito and Clarke are newer members, all four together now for about a year.
A “sprint” length race, in adventure racing terms, runs from two to four hours. Medium length races run 12 to 36 hours; and expedition races, the daddy of them all, run from four to 11 days. “In those long races, it’s a balance of getting enough sleep, but not taking so much that you fall too far behind the other teams,” explains Lundgren. “In one race that lasted five days,” says Romero, “we slept five minutes a day, so a total of 25 minutes of sleep over the entire 120 hour race.” Devito explained that Lundgren and Romero have honed the “two-minute nap” and he says, “they aren’t kidding. They set a timer and it really works. Some of the best sleep I’ve ever had.”
The sport of adventure racing started with the Eco-Challenge that was on the Discovery Channel for many years. It was originally put together by Mark Burnett, later the developer of the TV shows Survivor and The Apprentice.

This is a team sport, with four-member coed teams, meaning there must be at least one member of the opposite sex on the team. Most teams are three men and one woman, like Team Epi, but some are two and two and a few even have three women and one man. Putting together the perfect team is a delicate operation. “It’s hard to find people you can stand to be around for that long,” explains Lundgren. The team members are all together for the entire race. “During the race,” says Devito, “when you get angry at a teammate, you have to deal with it right then. You can’t go off into another room while you cool down. So, you have some pretty good communications.” Lundgren continues, “You’re too tired to mince words. And you are with these people 24 hours a day for days. You share food, share water, share warmth—you huddle together in the middle of the trail and sleep until you start shivering.” “To find four people who get along at that deep level is difficult,” Romero says. “When you find them, you don’t want to let that go.”
Adventure racers go through a course using maps and a compass. The “course” is defined only by starting and ending points and about 30 checkpoints in between them. “You can get between checkpoints any way you want,” says Lundgren. All non-motorized modes of transportation are acceptable and some of the modes Team Epi has used include: hiking, bikes, kayaks, river rafts, roller blades, repelling, horses or even camels, and the list goes on as far as the imagination of the team members want to take it.
During races, teams have to carry everything they need—food, water, clothes, gear, plus a mandatory kit that is required, but varies a bit from race to race. The mandatory kit usually includes things like a first aid kit, radio and other safety-oriented gear. “We’re known for going minimal,” says Devito. “So, we often run out of food or water and have to drink the yucky water along the way,” adds Lundgren. Some gear, such as kayaks or bikes, is only used for some legs of the race, and is picked up from crewmembers at transition points where the race changes disciplines.
Eating is a bigger challenge than it would seem. “You have to eat continuously, especially on the longer adventures,” explains Lundgren, “because you are continuously on the move and burning more calories than you can make up for.” Devito adds, “Plus from eating continuously your mouth gets sore because it’s used to having rest time. Sometimes you just don’t feel liking eating.” And nutrition is important—eating the right thing. Team Epi members take supplements to keep going and they pack a variety of tastes—salty, sweet, bland, etc.—to keep the eating as interesting and nutritious as possible. Each of the four pack different kinds of food, so they can trade and share for added variety.
Adventure races are set in a multitude of locations around the world, usually in exotic places with rugged terrain and temperature extremes. There are many races, one nearly every weekend during the summer, set in the United States, especially in Southern California. Just a few of the exciting locations the team has traveled for races include Southeast Asia, Malaysia, Borneo, the Philippine Islands, Morocco, Sweden, Argentina, Switzerland, Chile, Brazil, Canada, Mexico and China. “We use the races as vacations to get to travel the world,” says Lundgren.
As anyone would expect, much of the time between races is spent training for races. “Big Bear is the perfect training ground,” says Romero, with steep hills, great mountain biking, lake activities, trails and snowshoeing—everything but a river. We think this Valley has the potential for being a multi-sport adventure get-away.”
When not racing or training, the members of Team Epi run Adventure Racing Training Camps, which are basically 36-hour long, on-the-course training sessions with a coach. The training teaches participants how to expedition race—what to bring, nutrition, how to keep moving, and the higher end technical aspects, such as repelling. They have run classes here in Big Bear, as well as in Arizona, Orange County, Brazil and Costa Rica and are rapidly expanding the training camps based on increased demand from athletes around the world. “They taught me everything I know,” says former student, Bernice Pierson, now racing for three years on another team. “They literally showed me every little piece of gear and led me toward the starting line of my first race.”
The team members say some of the best parts of racing are the interesting people from all walks of life involved in the sport, the travel to and experiences in some of the most remote places in the world, and the camaraderie—the common bond with friends they’ve made around the world. And the worst parts? “Poison oak,” Devito and Lundgren both say, remembering recent experiences.
So, why do they run these races? “There’s a special mindset to get into when you’re trying to beat somebody,” says Devito. “During races, there are times it’s so hard, it feels horrible and we wonder why are we doing this,” Lundgren says, “like when you are cold and sleepy and carrying your bike through the bush up a hill.” Devito continues, “Somehow, though, you’re hating it and smiling as you’re going.”
“I like pushing my mind and body to new limits each time … pushing my physical and mental capacity. It becomes addictive to expand yourself,” says Romero.
“And after a race in that time of complete exhaustion, you have that feeling of ‘having done it’—and that feeling is addictive. In the midst of the exhaustion, I’m already thinking, I can’t wait until the next race,” says Devito.
Team Epi participates in 10 to 15 races a year. The majority of those are medium length, 24 to 48 hours, which they use primarily as training exercises for the longer races. They participate in three or four expedition length races a year.
Sponsors, usually product manufacturers, fund some of the team’s equipment and travel expenses, but as the team continues to place well, they receive invitations from some race organizers who pay entry fees and some expenses just to have Team Epi there. Coming up this year, they plan to participate in the “Trio Adventure” in Nicaragua in April and in “Explore Sweden” in June. Visit their website to keep apprised of their race progress at www.teamepinephrine.com.

© 2005 Big Bear Magazine, All Rights Reserved.

Richard Moll is “Bull-ish” on Big Bear

2010-09-10T08:29:00.000-07:00

Left:Richard Moll as the character, Bull Shannon, the bailiff on NBC’s hit sitcom, Night Court.

Right: At home with nature in Big Bear, Richard befriends a young pine tree.

Photos and Story by Christie Walker

A native son of the golden state–“one of the older ones”–Richard Moll became a permanent resident of Big Bear City in 2004. Probably best known for his role as the tall, shaved-headed Bull Shannon, the bailiff on NBC’s hit sitcom, Night Court, Moll has moved to the mountains to enjoy the “simple life.”
“I’ve always been partial to the forested atmosphere. I love the change of seasons and like to fish, hike and socialize with friends. I’ve chosen to live the simple life, which is one of the advantages of living up here. My kids call my little cabin in Big Bear City the cozy cabin–not terribly original but appropriate,” said Moll, with a self-deprecating laugh.
Before becoming a permanent resident, Moll had a second home in Big Bear Lake, on Cienega Road. Back in 2003, Moll and his wife were living in Pacific Palisades and took a trip up to Big Bear. His wife told Moll that they weren’t leaving town until they bought a vacation home, and so they did.
“On our way down the mountain, the Old Fire was creeping up the hill and I asked, ‘What have we just done?’ But as you know,” Moll added, “the fire didn’t hit Big Bear.”
Today, Moll rents a small cabin filled with knotty pine charm that was built back in 1961. In front of his fireplace is a black bear skin rug that used to belong to his father. His father shot the bear, not in Big Bear, but in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.
Moll takes his simple life seriously–no television, no computer–even though it drives his agents and managers nuts, since they like to e-mail their clients with information and offers. Moll spends his time reading and taking leisurely hikes in the forest.
“I read a great deal, from the classics like Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen to a three volume history of the Civil War, by Shelby Foote. I also enjoy hiking, and take along my nature books on wildflowers, birds, trees and plants so I can spend time identifying anything I’m unfamiliar with. It’s more like stalking than hiking,” Moll laughed.
Hiking around Big Bear has given Moll an appreciation for the natural environment in which we live–one he doesn’t mind defending.
“I think protecting the environment up here can be a little bit of a hard sell, which is pretty ironic considering how reliant we are upon the environment–especially the beauty of it–to make this place attractive,” said Moll. “So it’s surprising when people drag their feet when it comes to protecting the environment.”
At a recent Big Bear Lake City Council meeting, Moll encouraged the City Council to take a stand on global warming by signing the U.S. Mayors Climate Protection Agreement. He also testified in front of the Senate subcommittee on the depletion of the ozone layer, years ago.
While living in Big Bear has many advantages, being close to his work isn’t one of them. Still very active in film, television and other projects, Moll still enjoys his work as an actor.
“I think of myself as a character guy. I think that’s how you grow as an actor, at least to a certain degree, by doing these characterizations,” said Moll.
Being 6’8” lends itself to being cast as some fun and unusual characters. On October 27th of 2007, Moll plays a cranky old “son-of-a-gun” in an evil town, in Headless Horseman, a Halloween-themed program airing on the Sci-Fi channel. November will see the premiere of a full-length feature film, The Christmas Cottage, starring Peter O’Toole, Marcia Gay Harden, Chris Elliott, Ed Asner and a wonderful cast. Based on the young life of painter, Thomas Kinkade, Moll plays the part of Big Jim, “no surprise there,” says Moll, the town electrician who is very competitive about the local Christmas lights competition.
Locally, Moll had a starring role in the short film, The Boy Next Door, a black comedy that won an award as the Best Short Film in the Big Bear Lake International Film Festival.
Like another Big Bear resident, Noel Blanc, Moll has had his share of voice over work for animation including the voice of the villain, Two-Face, in Batman, the animated series. Still active in film, television, and theatre, Moll enjoys working in the independent film arena as well.
“Some of these independent films, even though they don’t have a huge budget, they treat you with a little more deference and you have a little more creative leeway and more to do. Actually in a way, I like independent films as well as anything,” said Moll.
Being a recognizable actor, Moll gets his share of Big Bear visitors who want their picture taken with him, while the locals are more likely to just say, “Hi, Richard” as they pass by in the aisles of Stater Brothers. While fame might make it a little more difficult to live the simple life, living in the Big Bear Valley certainly makes it more possible than in most places in Southern California.
© Big Bear Magazine

Shutterbug of Many Countries

2010-09-10T08:26:00.000-07:00

Ellen Nichols at The Gallery in the Village, written by Marje Koërber, photography by Manriquez Studios

Shutterbug. Many people call themselves shutterbugs but how many of us are really any good at taking photos? Ellen Nichols, who found her outlet for art in photography, has seen her endeavor for taking beautiful photographs, with the advent of digital cameras, really grow. Nichols says: “I was not good at drawing like my mother and sister but photography has opened up a wonderful way for me to express myself in the art world.”
Nichols, a native of Denmark came to America for a year, went to work and decided to stay in her adopted country. She retired in1988, after a long corporate career with Southern California Edison, and moved fulltime to Sugarloaf. She became immersed in community affairs and has served on the Board of Friends of the Big Bear Valley Library as president for two terms. She is a member of Soroptimist International, and currently serving as corresponding secretary as well as having served in other board positions. She is the current president of the Arts Council, 2005/2006. The Art Gallery opened in November 2002 and Ellen starting showing her photography in the Gallery in 2004.
Through her company, Ellen Nichols Photography and Graphic Design, she enjoys creating graphic designs and brochures for individuals as well as businesses. She also creates greeting cards, custom stationary, post cards, and rack cards.
She has traveled extensively back and forth to her native Denmark as well as visiting Russia, China, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Australia, Spain, Italy, Austria, the Czech Republic (Prague), Holland, Belgium, England, and all across the U.S. including Alaska.
Nichols has taken 700 to 800 photographs of our national parks. She goes through the photos, picks out the best ones to create slide presentations, determining which ones to blow up, frame, and display in the gallery and on her website, www.ellennichols.com. She has also fine tuned her ability to find and capture unusual and interesting sites where ever she goes. It takes a good eye and years of practice to recognize which settings will provide photos that speak and touch a special place inside
The front cover photo of Big Bear Magazine was taken by Nichols at sunset, looking west from Stanfield Cutoff. She also took one looking east at the same time of day, but the second one is totally different due to the topography, the colors and light, yet creating a beautiful scene of the same area, same day, and same time. Nichols’s current collection includes photographs of Big Bear, the California coast, Western National Parks, Alaska, China, Australia, Spain and her native Denmark. Email her at ellen@ellennichols.com or visit her website or The Gallery in the Village to view her work.

The Whimsical Dee Mundy

2010-09-10T03:27:00.000-07:00

This story was originally published in 2005 Big Bear Magazine, and written by Dianne Ackermann. A featured cover on our home page, is a watercolor of boats by Ms. Mundy.
This month’s featured cover artist Dee Mundy has been painting since childhood. Her love of art followed her into college where she majored in art for two years before changing her major to education; she graduated with a minor in art.
“My focus was on commercial art. They didn’t call it ‘graphic design’ then. I actually enjoyed doing designs for frozen food containers but I didn’t think I could make a living out of it that so I switched to education. Being a teacher I used a lot of my art in my classroom.” She taught pre-school until her retirement.
Dee paints in a comfortable upstairs loft lit by a large window affording the northern light on her painting table. The south facing window looks to the forest. Dee and husband Jack built a small cabin in 1969. After moving to Big Bear full time in 1993, they added on to their cabin.
Living in the mountains has been a great influence on her art. “I like painting winter. I love painting snow and water.” So Big Bear has much to offer this artist.
An accomplished watercolor artist, Dee paints a variety of subjects including landscapes, flora, and buildings. “I’m a frustrated architect. My grandfather was an architect and I’ve always doodled buildings.” Traveling though such places as Colorado, Arizona, Hawaii and the Caribbean, she has recorded in paint many of the structures encountered along the way. “I love old barns. I always make my husband stop when I see them.” Her pen and ink drawings of buildings reflect her technical art background.
Dee has a series of work she calls her “whimsies.” Childlike in their innocence, these primitive folk art pieces are another side of this talented artist. Painted in acrylic on paper, the “animal whimsies” such as “The Animals’ Christmas” depicts creatures of the forest celebrating the holiday – dancing raccoons, grinning bears in Santa hats or angel wings and caroling coyotes. “These paintings spring from my pre-school teaching days” she admits.
Both Dee and Jack volunteer at the Discovery Center. This has also been an influence on her art. “We incorporate being good stewards of the forest while enjoying all that the forest has to offer” as she shows in her “seasonal whimsies.” This series shows different parts of the Valley throughout the four seasons. Summer shows the Discovery Center and all the different activities available in the summer – boating, fishing, hiking the nature trails, camping, picnicking. Fall is Fawnskin, Grout Bay, and the Butler Peak tower in the full color of our mountain fall. Winter, of course, is the slopes and the Village complete with boarders, skiers, bus tours, dog walkers, snowmen builders, photographers and others engaged in winter activities. Spring in pinks and greens portray the East Valley with horseback riding, camping, off-roading and other forms of springtime play.
Dee’s watercolors range in size from miniatures of 2 inches by 4 inches up to 18 inches by 24 inches. The smaller watercolors and card size prints of larger paintings can be seen at the Adventure Outpost at the Discovery Center. Her larger pieces were shown at the Mountaintop Fine Art Show held at the Discovery Center this past May.

© 2005 Big Bear Magazine, All Rights Reserved

Canoe and Kayake Tours 2009

2010-09-06T18:20:00.000-07:00

There is no better way to see the Big Bear Valley than by canoe or kayak. The Big Bear Discovery Center is offering canoe and kayak tours Wednesday through Sunday, May through September. “A guided tour is the perfect way for first timers to learn basic skills needed to canoe or kayak on their own,” said Marco Guzman, Program Manager for the SBNFA. We invite you to experience the beauty of Big Bear Lake and the peace and serenity of paddling around the beautiful lake.

On our guided tour you will learn how to canoe through beautiful Big Bear Lake. After a quick paddling lesson, you will cruise along the shore looking for beaver, great blue herons, and ducklings. Along the way you will learn the natural history of the Big Bear Valley along with the various flora and fauna found in the area.

Tours are limited to 14 people, reservations are recommended. Tours are filled on a first come, first serve basis. Call or check our website for details. www.bigbeardiscoverycenter.com (909) 382-2790 or (909) 866-3437. Private tours can be arranged for groups of 8 or larger, Wednesday through Sunday. Please call to schedule. Participants should be at least 6 years of age for canoeing and 10 years of age for kayaking. Sandals, sunglasses, sunscreen and a light jacket are recommended. All canoe and kayak equipment is provided.

Canoe Tours
Fee: Adults $25, Children (6-12) $15
Dates: May – Sept. Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays; 4pm-6pm & Sunday; 9am-11am.

Kayaking Tours
Fee: $30 ages 10 and up.
Dates:: May – Sept. Wednesdays; 4pm-6pm & Saturdays; 9am-11am.

The San Bernardino National Forest Association is the primary non-profit partner to the U.S. Forest Service, which operates six programs to care for the San Bernardino National Forest. The programs include Children’s Forest, Big Bear Discovery Center, Off Highway Vehicle Outreach Education, Forest Care, Fire Lookout Hosts, and the Urban Youth Conservation Corps. For more information, or to help sponsor a program, please call Sarah Miggins at (909) 382-2796.
# # #

John Grandi Winner of 2009 Community Appreciation Award

2010-09-06T18:17:00.001-07:00

The Big Bear Lake International Film Festival, selected John Grandi as the recipient of the “Community Appreciation Award.” Ty Warren, Film Festival Board President comments, “John is always at the forefront when it comes to donating his time and talent for the betterment of the Big Bear Valley.”
The Community Appreciation Award is given to an individual who has contributed greatly to the well being of the Big Bear Community. This is the 10th Annual Film Festival held in Big Bear but only the 4th time that a community member has received recognition. In 2000 Actress Shirley Jones was the first community advocate honored with the prestigious award. For unknown reasons it did not re-surface until 2007 when Channel 6 TV Host Ron Seymour was nominated in a move that the Film Festival Board unanimously agreed was long overdue. Last year (2008) Dick Kun was the announced winner for his many philanthropic endeavors.
The 2009 honoree, John Grandi, is one of Big Bear’s living legends – sharing his life stories on stage as benefits for such worthy organizations as the Hospital Foundation and the Library, acting in CATS productions and as a Rotarian often emceeing the Eagles of Excellence evening. John uses his popular human interest column in the Grizzly Newspaper “Stay Tuned” to promote the people, projects and happening events in the Big Bear Valley.
The Community Appreciation Award is not limited to individuals who are in “show biz.” However, often “show biz” folks such as Grandi enjoy sharing their background and blessings within the community. John, who with his usual good humor, claims to have “flunked retirement” keeps busy writing, acting and in general lending a helping hand wherever needed. And in all these endeavors he continues to work to make Big Bear a better place for all because as he claims “I’ve been in the ‘people’ business my entire life.”
For John this means spending his time doing things that benefit others is important. He’s acted in small scale productions to benefit both the Hospital Foundation and the Library. A popular favorite “An Evening with John Grandi" done as a charity performance for the Library was so well received that a encore was produced at the Performing Arts Center as a Hospital Foundation fund raiser. John is a “people person” who has earned the respect of the community and has formed many enduring friendships. It is not surprising that his circle of friends come together to support John’s favorite causes – often sharing the stage with him.
Grandi is an actor, musician and humanitarian – and a columnist for the Grizzly Newspaper.

Big Bear Decks, Outdoor Living at Its Finest

2010-09-03T11:31:00.000-07:00

[UPDATE: This story ran in Big Bear Magazine in the Spring of 96’, certain information has been changed, including names, phone numbers and building regulations pertaining to the Big Bear Lake area. Jim Miller, Director of Building and Safety, (909) 866-5831, informed us that there is now a standard deck plan (280 sq. ft.), available through the BBL Building & Safety office.]

With an average of 300 days of sunshine annually in the Big Bear Valley, decks are considered by many as an extra room, just for entertainment and relaxation.
RIFFENBURGH LUMBER, (909) 866-4675, told us deck season starts mid-to-late April, and “really cranks” in the summer months of Big Bear. Redwood has been by far the most common choice for deck surfaces.
There are also several products on the market, designed for specific deck applications. Tufflex is a urethane propeller textured finish that can be applied over plywood. The product is applied in a 4-step process, and must be installed by an authorized installer. Big Bears’ installer, PRO-FORMANCE CO., (909) 866-3042, says the product is often used in commercial settings, but also is very successfully used in residential settings, as a water-tight coating when the area under the deck needs to be kept water-tight. Depending on the weather conditions, application is usually a fairly simple process, taking only 3 to 4 days for the average deck.
“Trex” is a wood-polymer lumber, available at lumber retailer, BUTCHER’S BLOCK AND BUILDING MATERIAL, (909) 866-5761. Bob Butcher told us the product had been on the market about 6 years, and he saw some definite advantages for a high maintenance area like Big Bear. It doesn’t split like wood, won’t rot or be damaged from moisture and the high UV rays will not effect the surface. One of the biggest advantages for an area like Big Bear – no more staining and no more sanding. No more maintenance! The trade off is the upfront additional cost, and the additional cost of installation. While the boards can be easily cut with a saw, surface boards must be drilled and then screwed to framing lumber. Bob said the product could not span as far as redwood, which means additional framing as well.
He saw the product used very successfully for boat docks in the Big Bear area, and could also see the popularity of the product beginning to grow.
Big Bear weather conditions necessitate a few different considerations than you might need in a more tepid climate. First, deck boards should always be screwed to the framing, using a galvanized deck screw. A quality, galvanized deck screw won’t bleed or easily break. Winter months often require shoveling snow of the deck, and nails are easily pulled up during this process. Also, in designing your handrail, make sure a space below will allow an area to push snow through, during those snow-shoveling months.
Since the 1992 earthquake, codes in Big Bear are strictly enforced for decks, according to John F. Acosta, III, AIA, and licensed architect. (909) 585-6311. He’s seeing more decks coming in for engineering – especially tall and large decks. There are many variables that will effect plans for your deck – the height, size, and shape for certain. Plus, the existing structure the deck will attach itself to must also be evaluated for the additional load.
Building a deck has become quite a bit more complicated than in the past years, and John has seen an increase in demand for his services in deck designing and engineering. Presently, about 50% of his deck business comes right through the homeowner, and 50% through contractors. But whether you are a handy do-it-yourselfer, or hire a contractor to build your deck, all plans now require a California architect/engineer stamp and signature.
If you’ve been considering adding a deck, there are several requirements through Building and Safety you need to know. First, any deck 30” or more above grade will require permits. Guardrails will also be required for decks over 30’.
To submit plans through Building & Safety, City of Big Bear Lake, (909) 866-5831 – They are happy to assist and answer any question. You’ll need:
A. A copy of deed for verification of ownership and easements.
B. One set of plans drawn to scale, comprised of a plot plan (showing existing structures and deck addition), for the County Assessor.
C. Three complete sets of plans drawn to scale, which include your project description, legal description, names, addresses and telephone numbers of the record owner, applicant and the person preparing the map; North orientation; location, width, names of streets and recorded easements on property; square footage of lot, footprint, and total percent of lot coverage; location, size and use of all existing and proposed buildings (call out sq ft. separately for your deck); including dimensions, sq. ft and distance from property lines; location size and species of all existing trees with 6” or greater diameter at breast height, clearly marking all trees proposed for removal “to be removed”; and topography including drainage, erosion control and grading.
D. A foundation plan with related details, showing wood size and method of attachment.
E. A property survey may be required.
F. The city will also require a “pre site inspection”.
If a licensed contractor will be building your deck, Big Bear Lake Building and Safety will need a copy of the signed contract, and verification of active status with the California State License Board, as well as a city business license. If the contractor has employees, he must provide Workers comp. insurance.
Big Bear has a large community of licensed general contractors, experienced and qualified in building decks. Take the time to select a contractor with whom you can communicate. Look at some of the work that has been done by the contractor you choose. Make sure your agreement and contract is fully specified, and in writing. Check references. And always, check the status of the contractor you hire by calling the Contractors Board’s Automated system at (800) 321-2752. In California, the Contractors State license board must license any contractor performing a job in which the total cost of the project including labor & materials is over $500.
Prior to any construction, “ Dig Alert”, an underground service alert should be called at 811. Underground utilities are buried everywhere, often where you least expect them. This no charge service alerts all utilities BEFORE you do any digging. Normally, they can respond within 48 hours. Failure to obtain proper identification of underground utilities is a violation of California law and could result in substantial fines and repair bills.
Big Bear decks need to be sealed properly to protect the top surface from our harsh weather conditions and high UV rays. Paint is never recommended for the surface of your Big Bear deck.
(Note: Since this was originally written, Bob Butcher, well known and respected owner of Butcher’s Block passed away, and the company is being run by son Glen Butcher.)

Music at the Mansion – MMX.IV

2010-09-02T07:23:00.000-07:00

Sunday, September 12, 2010, 3 PM
Knickerbocker Mansion on Knickerbocker Road, Big Bear Lake
Dinner immediately following the Concert
RSVP needed to 909-585-5916

The Arts Council of Big Bear Valley is pleased to present “Music at the Mansion – MMX.IV. This is entertainment at its best, with up-close seating, wonderful music, and excellent dining following the show and to top it off with “easy on the pocket” prices featuring the excellent Las Vegas Artists: Elaine and Tod Fitzpatrick wonderful repertory of wonderful songs from “Showboat,” “South Pacific,” and of course an all time favorite “Phantom of the Opera”.

Tod's voice has been described as “a resonant lyric baritone” and that his “love songs have a devotional, dreamy quality” after performing at the Tidewater Art Song Season. Earlier this year this quote was proven true when he sang at the Performing Arts Center.

Elaine has had leading roles as Kathie in the Student Prince, Yum-Yum in The Mikado, Valencienne in The Merry Widow, Eliza in My Fair Lady, Fiona in Brigadoon, Polly Browne in The Boyfriend, Laurey in Oklahoma, Mrs. Nordstrom in A Little Night Music, Nimue in Camelot, Rose in The Secret Garden and Cinderella’s mother in Into the Woods.

Tod and his wife Elaine are Big Bear's Guests from Las Vegas where Tod is a Music Professor. Both started our exciting “Big Bear Lake Song Festival” for aspiring young artists who each summer study with distinguished music faculty from around the United States. We are lucky to hear Tod and Elaine again this year.

Another great local entertainer is Nancy Celeste Walker. “Nancy just lights up the stage” is what countless audience members say who have seen her perform. Nancy Celeste Walker has impressed thousands with her captivating vocals from the White House to audiences of musical theater to film scores to the Los Angeles and Orange County music scene. Nancy sang for Bill and Hillary Clinton during the Christmas Holidays thanks to her Mother sending them a copy of her CD. Nancy states, “singing in the White House has been a highlight of her career”. Nancy has also performed locally with the Big Bear Performing Arts Center with “Divas”; “From Paris, With Love” and last October she did a Cabaret show of “funny songs” called “Isn't It Funny” to sold out crowds.

The entertainment features Emily Dunn, an “up-and-coming” singer and “song-writer” who is recording her first CD of her own music. She has been singing, dancing and acting for over 10 years and she brings to the stage, enthusiasm and vitality to all that she does. She will be singing her own originals “Where Did My Fight Go” and “Won't You Be Mine” which will be featured on her new CD. This is the time to hear new music and in the not so distant future to say, “I heard her when...”

This event is held at the Knickerbocker Mansion at 3 PM Sunday September 12th and following the concert is a special dinner prepared by Chef Thomas, assisted by Robert, sous-chef. At the previous concerts the dinner guests have raved about the quality of the food and the diverse menu offered.

Ticket prices are Concert Only $20.00 (students $10.00) and Special Dinner Menu - $20.00 (tax and gratuity not included). Seating is definitely limited so reserve early by calling the Arts Council at 909-585-5916. This is an evening to remember with great music, a gourmet meal and easy prices.

The Arts Council of Big Bear Valley
For Further Questions please call:
Elaine W. Trei
Publicity
909-519-9985

Can You Still Hear Me?

2010-08-30T15:20:00.000-07:00

Story and photography by Sandy Steers

Nearly everyone continues to have questions about which cell phone service is the best to meet their individual requirements. And especially in the mountains, where service can be spotty, knowing which signals come through is key to being satisfied with mobile phone selection. In the 2003 January/February issue, we conducted a study to determine which services had the best connections in Big Bear Valley and where. And now we have updated it, to bring you the newest data on whether “you can still hear me” at various locations around Big Bear Valley.

The Parameters

Our tests were again run mid-day on a weekday, Monday, June 27, 2005 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The weather, which some say makes a difference in the service, was sunny and dry with temperatures in the low to mid 70’s (degrees Fahrenheit) during the run of the test.

Test Locations

This time 20 locations were tested (one additional from last time), and most of them were at or near the locations from 2003. 1) Fawnskin, at the post office, 2) Discovery Center parking lot, 3) Northshore Elementary School, at the intersection of North Shore Drive and Stanfield Cutoff (the new location), 4) Church of the Latter Day Saints parking lot, at the intersection of Paradise and North Shore Drive, 5) Baldwin Lake, at the intersection of Baldwin Lane and Golden Rod, 6) Erwin Lake east, at the corner of State Street and ‘G’ Street, 7) Erwin Lake west at the south end of Mitchell Lane, 8) at the entrance to Lake Williams on Lake Williams Road, 9) lower Sugarloaf, at the fire department on Baldwin Lane and Maple Drive, 10) upper Sugarloaf, at the south end of Dixie Lee Lane, 11) Big Bear City fire department, 12) the Convention Center, 13) lower Moonridge, in front of Wild Wings in the Moonridge shopping area, 14) upper Moonridge, at the intersection of Villa Grove and Fenway, 15) the Bear Mountain Ski Resort parking lot, 16) the Snow Summit parking lot, 17) Big Bear Village, in front of the Village Theaters North, 18) Big Bear Lake City Hall, 19) Boulder Bay at the Boulder Bay park, and 20) at the dam, in the south shore pull out. All the calls were made from the location back to the Big Bear Magazine offices in the Big Bear Lake Village.

The Service Providers

Once again, five service providers were tested, but with a slight variation from the previous test. Since 2003, AT&T merged with Cingular, so it no longer exists as a separate wireless provider. So, the services tested included, in alphabetical order, Cingular, Nextel, Sprint, T-Mobile and Verizon. This is the first time T-Mobile was included.

The Results

The various new tower locations throughout the Valley that have been reported over the last two years have definitely improved the cellular service here. All of the services that were included in both tests had less ‘no service’ areas this time than before and overall better service. The ratings used were ‘good’ when the connection was made without trouble and the voices were clear to both parties, ‘poor’ when a connection was made but either was not made the first time or had static or echos on the line, and ‘no service’, when no connection could be made.

This time Verizon, the winner last time, tied for first place with Sprint, the booby-prize winner of the 2003 test. Both had 18 ‘good’ ratings, one ‘poor’, and one no service. Compare this with the last test, where the best service had 14 ‘good’, two ‘poor’ and three ‘no service’ ratings. The next best service in this year’s test was Nextel with 15 ‘good’ ratings, five ‘no service’ and no ‘poor’ ratings—there were places where Nextel could not make calls, but whenever the calls went through, the quality was good. Cingular was next with five ‘no service’ ratings, 12 ‘good’ and three ‘poor’, and T-Mobile brought up the rear this year with six ‘no service’ ratings, 13 ‘good’ and one ‘poor.’

Location Results

Different services might serve better, depending on which locations in the Valley are most frequented by the user. Good news for Lake Williams. While last time none of the services had coverage out there, now they have a choice of two. The east end of the Valley still had the spottiest service overall, but this time Baldwin Lake was covered by all the providers. Upper Sugarloaf turned in the worst record with only one provider covering that area well. Anywhere on the north shore is a good place to make a cell phone call since all the services provided clear calls from the dam to Baldwin Lake. The south shore was not so lucky with the biggest problem areas being Moonridge and Boulder Bay. And this time the ski resorts faired better with at least three choices available for both of them.

Service Results By Provider

Even though the east end of the Valley had the least coverage overall, both Verizon and Sprint cover those areas without a problem. The only area Sprint did not cover was upper Sugarloaf. For Verizon, Boulder Bay was the only place where service was lost completely. Nextel service was very good everywhere except the east end—Sugarloaf, Erwin Lake and Lake Williams, but it did have coverage in Baldwin Lake. Cingular had several areas where it got either no service or poor service—especially Lake Williams, Erwin Lake and Moonridge. And with T-Mobile, the service outages were a bit random. For example, west Erwin Lake was fine, but east Erwin Lake and Lake Williams had no service. Lower Sugarloaf was fine, but no service in upper Sugarloaf, but reverse that in Moonridge—the lower area had no service and upper Moonridge was good. It also had no service at either ski resort.
The providers all seem to have been working hard in the past couple years. Overall, it is much easier to make a call from a cellular phone in Big Bear Valley than in 2003. As you drive around the Valley, no matter which service you choose as the best option for your needs, you will much less often have to be saying “Can you hear me yet?”

Special Thanks

We would like to thank the individuals who loaned us their cell phones, along with the often precious service minutes, to conduct this test: Bill Botte, Gina Robinson, and Lorren Repton. And thanks also to John Votava, of Nextel, who generously sent us a loaner phone to include.

The Results Chart

LOCATION Cingular Nextel Verizon Sprint T-Mobile
Fawnskin: Post Office G G G G G
Discovery Center G G G G G
Stanfield & North Shore Drive G G G G G
LDS Church: Paradise & North Shore G G G G G
BaldwinLake: Baldwin & Golden Rod G G G G G
Erwin Lake-East: State Lane & G NS NS G G NS
Erwin Lake-West: Mitchell Lane P-static NS G G G
Lake Williams NS NS G G NS
Sugarloaf-Lower: Maple & Baldwin G NS G G G
Sugarloaf-Upper: Dixie Lee Lane NS NS G NS NS
Big Bear City: Fire Department G G G G G
Convention Center G G G G G
Moonridge-Lower: Wild Wings NS G G G NS
Moonridge-Upper: Villa Grove & Fenway P-static G G G G
Moonridge: Bear Mountain NS G G G NS
Big Bear Lake: Snow Summit G G G G NS
Big Bear Lake: Village G G G G G
City Hall / PAC G G P-static P-static G
Boulder Bay Park P-static G NS G P-echo
The Dam G G G G G

Totals 5 NS 5 NS 1 NS 1 NS 6 NS
3 P 0 P 1P 1 P 1P
12 G 15 G 18 G 18 G 13 G

Woodstock Real Estate Turns 30

2010-08-30T15:01:00.000-07:00

Ever since Margaret Shaffner visited Big Bear as a teen, and stayed at friends’ parents’ cabins, the thought of living and working in a resort town was a dream. She made that dream a reality, when with seven years of real estate experience, she moved from the ocean town of Huntington Beach, to live in the mountain resort of Big Bear. Arriving in December, 1978 to a six foot snow storm, she persevered, and opened Woodstock Real Estate just six months later, in June 1979. The building, located on Maple Lane in Sugarloaf, features beautiful wood interiors of natural pine cones and Big Bear nature, by husband Mark, former owner of Artistic Wood Interiors, as well as paintings by Margaret.

Named for the lovable yellow bird in the Peanuts cartoon series, Woodstock Real Estate is one of Big Bear’s most established Real Estate companies, and Margaret admits she has seen many, many changes over the years. Real Estate companies come and go, agents do the same, as well as change companies, owners of cabins and homes become landlords, sell, and perhaps purchase something else. Through all the changes, Margaret and her staff continue with the ability to help everyone with a home in the Valley – whether it is selling, buying, or managing the home through their property management division, with the utmost of professionalism.

Real Estate is often the largest investment people will make, and Margaret and her staff take the responsibility very seriously. “Renters are required to uphold nine addendums to protect the property owner’s interests.”

When asked how she continues in such a volatile industry, with its extreme highs and lows, Margaret says, “It’s just due to hard work, a lot of persistence and tenacity, and having the right people working for me in various areas of support. We’re more like a family here, and service is the key.” She attributes her strong religious beliefs and her positive attitude as very important aspects of her success.

Margaret was intricately involved in the 1988 Sugarloaf Road Commission that helped get the roads in the community paved, by getting the initiative on the ballot. She has also been active in the Big Bear Association of Realtors, where she has served as president.

Woodstock Real Estate, www.woodstockre.com, 479 Maple Lane, Sugarloaf. 909.585.2591

"How Will YOU Be Remembered?"

2010-08-30T14:53:00.000-07:00

By Marlene Cain, Staffing and Career Consultant
909.866.2819, marcain@earthlink.net
“You must be the change you want to see in the world.” --Gandhi.
“My fellow citizens of the world: ask not what America will do for you, but what together we can do for the freedom of man.” John F. Kennedy.
“Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” –Ralph Waldo Emerson.
It’s easy to draw inspiration from each of these three magnificent quotes. But a most insightful message comes not from a poet, president or world leader, but from a far more unlikely source, and it is not a quote, but a quiz. Take a moment and:
1. Name the five wealthiest people in the world
2. Name the last five Heisman Trophy winners
3. Name the last five winners of the Miss America contest
4. Name 10 people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer prize
5. Name the last half dozen Academy Award winners for best actor and actress.
6. Name the last decade of World Series winners.
How did you do? If you’re like most people, you didn’t fare too well. But don’t worry. The author of this quiz underscores the real point here--that few are likely to remember the headliners of yesterday. Even though these folks are the best in their fields, awards tarnish and applause fades. And their achievements, while commendable, are often forgotten, buried with their owners.
You may be thinking, “Where’s this amazing insight?” Keep reading—the quiz continues:
7. Name a few teachers who aided your journey through school
8. List three friends who have helped you through a difficult time.
9. Name five people who have taught you something worthwhile
10. Think of five people you enjoy spending time with.
11. Think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated and special
12. Name some heroes whose stories have inspired you.

For most people, this part of the quiz is much easier, and that’s the insightful part. For the author reveals that it’s the everyday people who make a difference in your life, not necessarily the ones with the most credentials, the most money, the most fame or the most awards.
Want proof of his theory? This mystery philosopher won an Emmy and a Peabody. A California airport is named in his honor. He has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, right next to Walt Disney. He received the Silver Buffalo award, scouting’s highest honor, for his contribution to American youth. Congress awarded him the Congressional Gold Medal, our nation’s highest civilian honor.
Yet it is doubtful you will remember him for any of these amazing achievements. It is more likely you will remember him for his creation of a round-headed kid and his dog. Yes, the mysterious philosopher, Charles M. Schulz, is better known for creating the beloved “Peanuts” comic strip that has entertained generations of readers.
Mr. Gandhi, President Kennedy, and Mr. Emerson: meet Mr. Schulz, who joins you in providing a philosophy that continues to touch us all.
###

Top 10 Woodburning Tips from CSIA

2010-08-30T14:51:00.000-07:00

Every year Big Bear experiences unnecessary and preventable chimney fires. T
To aid in the prevention of chimney fires and carbon monoxide intrusion and to help keep heating appliances and fireplaces functioning properly, the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers the following safety tips:

1. Get an annual chimney check. Have chimneys inspected annually, and cleaned as necessary, by a qualified professional chimney service technician. This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimneys.

2. Keep it clear. Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet away from the top of the chimney.

3. Install a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney.

4. Choose the right fuel. For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces, choose well-seasoned wood that has been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location. Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove.

5. Build it right. Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate. To start the fire, use kindling or a commercial firelighter. Never use flammable liquids.

6. Keep the hearth area clear. Combustible material too close to the fireplace, or to a wood stove, could easily catch fire. Keep furniture at least 36” away from the hearth.

7. Use a fireplace screen. Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring.

8. Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall. When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time, remember to check your batteries.

9. Never leave a fire unattended. Before turning in for the evening, be sure that the fire is fully extinguished. Supervise children and pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces.

10. The CSIA recommends annual inspections performed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps. These chimney sweeps have earned the industry's most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes, clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems. The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that all chimneys are inspected on an annual basis.

Used with permission from the Chimney Safety Institute of America (www.CSIA.org).

CHAIN REQUIREMENTS FOR WINTER DRIVING

2010-08-30T14:48:00.000-07:00

R1 – Chains required. Snow-tread tires allowed.
R2 - Chains required on all vehicles except RWD with snow-tread tires.
R3 - Chains required on ALL vehicles

Road Conditions: 800.427 7623, or 909.866.7623

This important information courtesy of Big Bear Off-Road Adventures, 909.585.1036, www.OffRoadAdventure.com

Karen "Sarge" Rachels, A Home for CATS..

2010-08-30T14:39:00.000-07:00

The Community Arts Theater Society

By Joan Carlson
It was about twenty years ago, when Karen “Sarge” Rachels,made Big Bear Lake her permanent home.

Ms. Rachaels had starred on Broadway, worked with the television and recording industries, and basically had been involved with theater and the entertainment world her entire life.

When theater is in your blood, there’s no way to put it on the shelf just because one relocates to a resort/retirement community. With this move, Sarge saw a golden opportunity to fulfill a life-long dream. With nothing more than her endless energy and abundance of creative juices, she embarked upon a new adventure that would change her life and impact the lives of so many others she was yet to meet.

In 1994 Sarge and her mom, Jean Schiesser, a talented lady in her own right, established the Community Arts Theater Society, a non-profit theatrical production organization, and CATS of Big Bear was born. From its inception, CATS was established to bring affordable, quality theater to the Valley providing community participation, while creating a complete theater production from the planning stages to the final curtain. Members of the community of all ages have always been welcome. Men, women and children are all encouraged to get involved in the theater experience with a great emphasis on family participation. Those familiar with live theater are astounded that CATS is able to accomplish such high quality productions on such a low budget and an all-volunteer cast and crew. This is primarily due to the true “community spirit” that the Community Arts Theater Society embraces. CATS has no paid staff and relies on donations, fundraisers, and what money is left from ticket sales after all expenses are paid. The profit from each show is hopefully enough to provide seed money for the next show during each fall, spring and summer CATS season.

Sarge’s dream for the Community Arts Theater Society could not be complete, however, until CATS had a home of its own. Costumes, sets, props and other equipment had to be housed in storage units throughout the Valley. With no home of its own, CATS was forced to expend a great deal of additional money that was not building for the future.

Thanks to the support of many, Sarge’s long awaited dream is becoming a reality. In 2008 The Community Arts Theater Society broke ground for its very own Warehouse Theater located in Big Bear City. The plans were divided into three phases. Phases 1 and 2 have been the construction phases providing a place for storage and building sets out of the cold and snow. Phase 3 is designated to facilitate a small theater. With further financial help, this last phase will create a flexible theater with a place for classes, workshops, children’s theater, and a facility for smaller and more frequent productions. Once the Warehouse Theater is complete, CATS will have an even greater opportunity to bring a variety of entertainment to Big Bear Valley, continuing in the CATS tradition of quality and affordable live theater for all to enjoy.

CATS, PO Box 400,Big Bear City, CA 92314
bigbeartheater@earthlink.net
www.bigbeartheater.org

The Lake Patrol is Watching

2010-08-30T14:20:00.000-07:00

Story by Sandy Steers

ZOOM—ZOOM! It’s that time of year again, for roaring across the lake on—speed boats, pontoon boats, ski boats, PWC’s (personal watercraft), skis, fishing boats, sail boats, banana boats, inner tubes, canoes, kayaks or anything else that floats or can be pulled behind a boat. But, WARNING—don’t zoom too fast. The Lake Patrol will be out in full force to make certain everyone is operating within the regulations.
Since the lake is nearly full for the first time in a few years, the Big Bear Municipal Water District (MWD), managers of the Lake, are expecting record crowds this summer. “We had a phenomenal rebound,” says Sheila Hamilton, MWD General Manager, “from the lake being down 17½ feet in October to only down 3½ in April. We are very excited about this full lake situation and know we’re going to have a wonderful summer.” And for everyone out on the Lake to have the most fun possible, she stresses it is important for everyone to follow the rules.
For those who have floated upon Big Bear Lake before, the rules are the same. The only new thing this year is that the east end of the Lake is being dredged. (So the next time the lake water level is low, the water there will remain deep enough for the east public launch ramp to stay open.) What that means for boaters this year is that the east ramp is closed for the summer. However, there will still be two free public launch ramps: 1) at the usual west ramp on the north shore between the dam and Fawnskin; 2) at the Big Bear Marina located just off Lakeview and Payne in Big Bear Lake. It also means that the east end of the Lake is cordoned off with an orange turbidity barrier (curtain) so that no boat traffic can enter the dredging area. No one is allowed to go past this barrier or to tie up to it.
So, about those rules…first, the maximum size of boat allowed on Big Bear Lake is 26 feet, all boats have to be equipped according to California Boating Law safety requirement, and all boats must have a permit. Boat permits can be purchased at the public launch ramps, at the MWD offices or at any of the marinas. “Our permit fees have remained the same for years,” says Hamilton. “It’s the only fee you have to pay and includes use of the public launch ramps.”
“One of the most important regulations to follow is the speed limit,” says Joe Schuber, Lake Patrol Officer for the past four years. The maximum speed limit is 35 mph during the day, 10 mph from sunset to 7 a.m., 5 mph between the buoys marked “5 mph” and the shore, and 3 mph in Papoose Bay, Canvasback Cove and Mallard Lagoon. “And we are especially strict with the regulations when it comes to PWC’s,” Schuber adds. All PWC riders must wear personal flotation devices. These devices must also be worn by children under the age of 12 riding on any vessel.
The Lake Patrol officers usually give people warnings when they see them breaking one of the regulations. “But if someone is purposely causing a dangerous situation, we will write a citation or we can even revoke the boating privileges,” Schuber says. One example of such an action is when a PWC rides straight at another PWC or boat, then turns at the last moment to cause a wave of water to splash the second vehicle—commonly known as “spraying down.” To avoid these situations, PWC’s are required to stay 100 feet from all other boats while operating at normal speeds.
With so many different types of vehicles and activities on the Lake at the same time, the regulations are extremely important for maintaining a safe environment for everyone. Some of the boaters want to go fast, some want to sit quietly, some have fishing lines out, some are towing water-skiers or other riding tubes. There are small boats like canoes and kayaks skimming along at the same time as large pontoon boats and tour boats. To keep chaos from intruding on this situation, a system of rules and flags informs others of a boat’s status. A boat trailing a fishing line must display a white trolling flag. A red flag must be displayed whenever a skier or a ski rope or towable is in the water, and all boats engaged in water-skiing must go in a counter clockwise direction. Also for water-skiing, an observer, at least 12-years old is required to be on board the boat to monitor the progress of the skier.
For the slower boats to be safely away from the bigger, faster ones, all manually propelled boats less than 12 feet long, as well as float tubes not being towed, have to stay within the area between the 5 mph buoys and the shore. Swimming is only allowed within 50 feet of shore, within designated swim areas, within 20 feet of a private dock and as needed for water-skiing and other water sports. Scuba diving is prohibited in Big Bear Lake.
For everyone’s convenience, there are three S.S. Relief stations (floating restrooms) on the Lake. These grant-funded stations have solar panels that charge a battery, so they are lighted outside to be easily spotted at night and have interior lights that come on automatically when someone enters.
A full list of the Lake regulations can be picked up at MWD, anywhere you can get a boat permit, or from the patrol officers out on the Lake. To enforce all these regulations, MWD currently has four full-time Lake patrol officers, several part-timers, and additional assistance from the Sheriff’s Department. “And we now have two PWC’s that the Lake patrol uses,” says Hamilton, “so people never know when a Lake patrol officer may be nearby.” “Our goal is to stress safety and education,” Schuber says. “We are always available to answer questions.”
Because so much new water has been added to the Lake recently, the water clarity is at an all-time high. That makes it an excellent time to spend the summer having a good, safe time out on Big Bear Lake.
© Big Bear Magazine, All Rights Reserved

Opportunity Knocks

2010-08-30T14:12:00.000-07:00

Originally published in 2008, by Marlene Cain, Staffing and Career Consultant
909.866.2819, marcain@earthlink.net

The Chinese word for “crisis” is composed of two characters. The first means “danger.” The second means “opportunity.” Together, they signify “crisis.”
A culture is reflected in its language. This explains the different perspective between Chinese and American culture with regard to crisis. While Americans see only the danger in a crisis, the Chinese see both the element of danger and the opportunity it provides.
For example, we all know about the fuel crisis, and the negative impact on tourists and travel.
Where is the opportunity here?
“I recently received two calls from people who had planned to go to Mammoth this summer,” said Chamber of Commerce executive director Sara Russ. “But due to gas prices, they shortened their itinerary, and came to Big Bear instead.”
Opportunity knocks!
Not only is our location attractive, we’re also looking more attractive to regional economists.
“The mountain communities are doing darn good compared to what’s going on in the rest of the county,” said Dr. John Husing, Inland Empire economist, at the recent summit held at Northwoods.
Opportunity knocks!
Husing also said we have a “tremendous quality of life” here, and urged everyone to unite “because no one has the ability to snap out of this downturn alone.”
How do you find the opportunity in an economic downturn? Start opening doors:
Door #1. Join your Chamber of Commerce. “In the last two weeks, I’ve received about 50 calls,” said Ron Yeager of W.O.W.!!! Services, an abatement, hauling, clean-up and defensible clearance company. “And about 90% were a result of my Chamber membership.”
Many members have talked about the new business opportunities that came simply through their affiliation with the Chamber of Commerce.
Door #2. Attend mixers. Mixers offer Chamber members a unique opportunity to “get out of the office” and network with colleagues--and potential customers--in a social setting.
Door #3. Participate in monthly power breakfasts. These meetings feature speakers from the business community, business updates, new business introductions, networking and 30-second “commercials” by every member present, promoting their product or service.
Door #4. Support “Shop Big Bear, it makes ¢ents!” campaign. Launched by the Chamber of Commerce, this program encourages customers and merchants alike to “think Big Bear first” whenever they need to make a purchase.
Door #5. Advertise. Keep your name out there. There are media available in all price ranges, including new, lower cost on-line opportunities.
Door #6. Collaborate with other businesses. Consider joining fellow business owners to promote products and services. Recently the Moonridge Animal Park, Big Bear History Museum and the Discovery Center partnered in this way and marketed their organizations in a very cost-effective manner.
Ralph Waldo Emerson said “America’s another name for opportunity.”
The Chinese view each crisis as a potential opportunity.
We just say, “Opportunity Knocks!”

2010-08-30T14:09:00.000-07:00

IMPORTANT COMMUNITY PHONE NUMBERS

UTILITIES
Bear Valley Electric 909.866.4678
Big Bear Disposal 909.866.3942
Charter Communications 866.499.8080
Community Services Dist. 909.585.2565
Dept. of Water & Power 909.866.5050
Ferrellgas 909.866.4605
SW Gas Corp. 909.866.4656
Thomas Gas 909.866.3513
Verizon 800.483.3000

TRANSPORTATION
Big Bear Airport 909.585.3219
Marta/Dial-A-Ride 909.878.5200

COMMUNITY RESOURCES
BBARWA 909.584.4018
Big Bear Chamber of Commerce 909.866.4607
Big Bear Resort Association 909.866.6190
Big Bear Grizzly 909.866.3456
Big Bear Lake Assessors Office 909.866.0165
Big Bear Magazine 909.800.4394
BigBearMagazine.com
CalTrans Road Conditions 800.427.7623
Channel 6 TV 909.878.4886
City of Big Bear Lake 909.866.5831
Convention Center 909.585.3000
Discovery Center 909.382.2792
KBHR Radio 909.584.5247
Library 909.866.5571
Municipal Water District 909.866.5796
US Post Office 800.275.8777

PUBLIC SAFETY
Big Bear City/Sugarloaf Fire Department 909.585.2362
Big Bear Lake Fire Department 909.866.4668
Bear Valley Community Hospital 909.866.6501
CAL Fire 909.338.2812
California Highway Patrol 909.867.2791
Fawnskin Fire Department 909.866.4878
Sheriffs Department (non emergency) 909.866.0100
FOR EMERGENCIES 911

Low-Maintenance, Water-Wise Landscapes

2010-08-30T13:48:00.000-07:00

Originally published in 2008, Story and Photography by Christy Walker

Being a second homeowner means your Big Bear Valley yard or garden has to be able to survive long periods of time without care, maintenance and sometimes water. There is one style of gardening that is perfectly suited for this situation. It’s called Xeriscape landscaping. The word “Xeriscape” was coined in Denver, Colorado in 1981 and is derived from the Greek word “zeros” meaning dry and “landscape,” therefore “a dry landscape.”
Water is applied to a Xeriscape garden in well-controlled amounts and locations within the garden. Many times the thought of Xeriscape conjures up a desert-like yard of rocks and cactus with no color. On the contrary, a Xeriscape garden can be a beautiful blend of color and textures, sounds and aromas. A drought-tolerant, native plant garden or yard is both easy on water and the eyes.
While Xeriscaping principles can be applied to many settings, they are particularly appropriate in the arid west, where 40 to 60 percent of the drinking water supply is used for landscape irrigation. Here in the Big Bear Valley, 10 percent of the consumers use 40 percent of our water supply and that usage skyrockets during the dry summer months.
According to the Big Bear Lake Department of Water, residential customers use four million gallons of water per day during the summer with half of that water being used for irrigation of outdoor landscape. That’s 2 million gallons of drinking water a day for watering lawns and gardens.
Switching over to a more natural, Xeriscape yard or garden will not only save money on water but is a beautiful alternative to water-thirsty lawns and more traditional plants.
“We all need to be as water efficient as possible. Doing more with less is the key for all of us that live in the arid Southwest,” explains Big Bear Lake DWP’s water resource manager and interim general manager, Bill La Haye.
“Homeowners can expect to save 70 to 80 percent on their water bill when they eliminate their lawn. Stater Brothers reduced their landscape irrigation water usage by 96 percent when they tore out their lawn and replaced it with drought-tolerant plants,” said La Haye.
Greg Ricketts, water service worker for Big Bear City Community Service has found, “A typical weekend house, without outside irrigation, will use 1000 gallons of water per month. Their water bill will be approximately $43 for two months. Adding outside watering for a typical, non-xeriscape landscape will increase the water usage to between 7,000 and 10,000 gallons per month with a bi-monthly bill of approximately $70.”
La Haye recommends creating interesting and useful handscapes such as decks, walkways, and/or specialty areas for entertaining first, and then utilizing attractive, low water use plants as much as possible in the remainder of the yard.
Ricketts agrees. “You can avoid high water bills by reducing the amount of outdoor watering needed by using native plants, bark, rock, hardscapes with concrete, pavers or bricks. Xeriscape gardening allows the part time homeowner the time to enjoy the beautifully landscaped yard each weekend instead of mowing, weeding, or repairing irrigation.”
This is where the seven principles of Xeriscape landscaping can come into play.
1. Planning & Design – grouping plants together with like water needs ensures you are not over watering or under watering your plants.
2. Soil Analysis – if you use native plants, you don’t need to worry about the soil. But if you bring up plants that are not suited for the local soil, you may need to add soil amendments.
3. Appropriate Plant Selection – native and drought-tolerant plants, once established, are equipped to handle long periods without water. Native plants can handle the piles of snow in winter and the long dry summers, unlike other plants that may need special attention, additional water or protection from snow. There are many groundcovers, shrubs, perennials, grasses, bulbs and trees available at local Big Bear nurseries that will reduce the need for outside watering. Once established, many native plants can survive on the water they receive from Mother Nature alone.
4. Limited or No Turf – Big Bear Lake has a “No New Turf” rule currently in effect. For those who already have grass, the DWP will pay you to remove your turf. Of all landscaping possibilities, grass uses the most water. Contact the DWP for more information on their turf buy back program.
5. Efficient Irrigation – With watering restrictions in place (No watering after 9 am and no watering before 6 pm) it makes sense to have your watering system on a timer. Drip systems keep evaporation to a minimum compared to traditional sprinklers. The timers on irrigation systems need to be checked regularly to make sure all areas are being watered the right amount. Electrical blackouts and broken sprinkler heads can be nightmares for the weekend homeowners who don’t maintain their systems.
6. Use of Mulches – A thick layer of mulch will retain moisture longer, suppresses weed growth and looks great as well.
7. Appropriate Maintenance – Xeriscape gardens are low maintenance once established. A bit of weeding, a fresh layer of mulch and checking to make sure your drip system is still working is all that’s needed.

One of the best ways to see xeriscaping “in action” is to visit private and public gardens. Each year, the Big Bear Group of the Sierra Club puts on a free Xeriscape garden tour. The purpose of the tour is to educate homeowners and increase awareness of the use of native and drought tolerant plant materials in mountain gardens in a fun and informal setting Call the Big Bear Chamber of Commerce, 909.866.4607 for more information.
© 2008, Big Bear Magazine

Hiring A Contractor.

2010-08-30T13:35:00.000-07:00

Hiring A Contractor. Reprinted from the archives of Big Bear Magazine. © 2005 Big Bear Magazine.
Questions & Answers Question: We are in the process of hiring a contractor in Big Bear, for various home improvements, and we want to make sure he's legitimate. What do we look for? How do we protect ourselves?

Every licensed contractor carries a "pocket license," or "pocket ID," which identifies the individual contractor, or the business name under which the contractor is working. In California, any job that costs $600 or more MUST be performed by a contractor who holds a current, valid license.
According to the CALIFORNIA STATE LICENSE BOARD, unlicensed contractors, who may present a lower bid, and talk you into being your own general contractor, or "Owner/ Builder," may be doing you no favor. YOU, not the person you hire, assume responsibility for the overall job, which includes such things as state and federal taxes, workers compensation, and other legal liabilities." Should you have a complaint or not be satisfied with your project, you have very little legal re¬course with unlicensed individuals.
When you hire a licensed professional to handle your project, you hire a person or company experienced in building, as well as the business of construction. You also have the backing of the CALIFORNIA STATE LICENSE BOARD to assist if problems arise.
Contractors may not work under an¬other person's license. That would be the same scenario as someone driving under another person's driver’s license. Not legal, not valid.delete that contractor from your list of professionals! Make sure the license you see belongs to the person you hire!
Always take the time to verify the status of the license. A license number does not verify its validity. You can easily check this by calling the CONTRACTORS STATE LICENSE BOARD at 800-321-2752, or visiting www.cslb.com. Take the time to check your contractor and you will avoid problems down the line.
Before you begin any remodeling project, have a contract, in writing that clearly specifies the work to be done by your contractor.
In almost all cases, the law requires a contractor to give you “written notice of your right to cancel a contract within three business days of signing it.” According to the CSLB, you should “use these three days to review the contract again.” If something bothers you, the time to discuss it with your contractor is now, not after the work begins.
Check that your scope of work is specified completely. For example, if the contractor is to "supply and install" your faucet, make sure this is in writing. If your contractor will "install" a client- supplied faucet, make sure that is also in writing. Remember, the contract is your job outline, and it should detail exactly what will happen with your project, and who will supply what items.
Make sure your contract includes everything you feel is important to the job including complete clean-up and removal of debris and materials, and special requests like saving lumber for firewood or saving certain materials or appliances.
Finally, make sure your payment schedule is included in your contract, up front. California law requires that "the amount of down payment for any home improvement contract may not exceed $1,000 or ten percent of the contract price, whichever is less." Make sure additional payments do not get ahead of the contractor's work.
For example, payments for a new garage might read: Completion of grading, completion of slab, completion of framing, completion of electrical, etc. The entire schedule, with exact amounts owing, should be spelled out and signed off by the homeowner. Your contract should "clearly state your final agreement and accurately reflect everything involved in the work being done by your contractor." And as with any legal contract, it must also include the name, physical address and license number of the contractor.

© 2005 HomeWork

The Otterstroms - Walking Their Talk

2010-08-29T12:55:00.000-07:00

Story and Photos by Sandy Steers

It all started with the 1992 Landers/Big Bear earthquakes, when lots of things Peggy and Jim Otterstrom owned got broken. “We didn’t like our ‘throw-away society’s’ consumptive patterns, and even though we couldn’t change the world’s path, we could change our own,” says Jim. So, they started replacing the things they had lost with items that lasted a long time and were powered with muscle energy rather than electricity—an old stainless steel percolator, a hand crank coffee grinder from an antique store, a push lawn mower, a hand plow, a sharpening stone. “And since we have to use our muscles with them, they also give us exercise.”

“Then we started walking to work,” says Peggy, “and had talked about the idea of living without a car.” When an accident put their car in the shop for three months, they took a pact to go without one for one year. Twelve years later, they still do not own a car and the space where the driveway used to be is dedicated to a beautifully landscaped native plant garden. The majority of their local travel is on foot or by bicycle. They take the metro into LA, take train trips to San Francisco and rent a car a few times a year for travel out of town. “Not owning a car gives you a different perspective on things,” Peggy says. “And economically,” Jim adds, “it’s like having an extra income.”

“I was also looking for a craft,” says Jim, “especially a non-toxic one made from materials that are right here and readily available.” He ran across a book on weaving baskets from pine needles. “The materials described in the book were not all natural, but when I changed to using hemp twine and finishing with bee’s wax, I felt really good about the whole process.” Jim’s first pine needle basket took about 80 hours to make, but now he can create one in about 35 hours. Peggy has also taken up basket weaving.

As Jim walks or bikes around the valley, he collects seeds for his native plant garden, or gathers plants about to be displaced by development. The yard they have created is now one of the regular highlights on the Big Bear Sierra Club’s annual Xeriscape tour. The Otterstroms also grow their own vegetables, raise chickens for eggs and process acorns into food. “The earth has such abundance for us,” says Peggy, “if we open our eyes and see it.”

(c) Big Bear Magazine

Big Bear Community – District Facilities and Parks

2010-08-29T12:51:00.000-07:00

Pricing should be double checked by calling the district offices, 909.866.9700.

Dana Point Park (Fawnskin)
Captain John’s Fawn Harbor Marina, picnic area, barbecues, restrooms.

Erwin Lake Park (Erwin Lake)
Volleyball court, playground area, horseshoe pit, barbeques and picnic shelter

Meadow Park (Big Bear Lake)
Three tennis courts, two softball fields, volleyball court, horseshoe pits, playground area, swim beach, picnic area with shelter, restrooms.

Miller Park (Fawnskin)
Basketball court, tennis court, volleyball court, picnic tables, playground area, meeting facilities.

Moonridge Animal Park (Moonridge)
Big Bear’s community zoo features a wide variety of birds and animals as well as several endangered species.
Prices: $9.00 Adults, $5 Children 3-10, $6 Seniors, Children under 3 free

Senior Center
Second Homeowners are invited to join this local meeting place for Senior Citizens of Big Bear Valley. Meeting room, service kitchen.

Swim Beach (Big Bear Lake) Open Memorial Day through Labor Day, 12-5 pm everyday. Beautiful white sand area, guarded swim area, barbeques, snack bar, playground, volleyball court.
Prices: 13 and over - $5, Youth 3-12 - $4, Under 3 - $1, Seniors - $4

Sugarloaf Park (Sugarloaf)
Skate Park, softball field, basketball court, tennis courts, playground area, picnic area including shelter, restrooms.

Orval Warren Community Center (Big Bear Lake)
Gymnasium which can accommodate sports activities, special events, and can be rented for private use.

All facilities are available for private rentals, by calling the District offices at 909.866.9700, Offices are located at 41220 Park Avenue, Big Bear Lake (off Mountainaire)

10 Fun Outdoor Activities in the Big Bear Valley, Free or Almost free

2010-08-29T12:46:00.000-07:00

Originally published in Spring/Summer 2009. Written by Christie Walker.

Now that the snow has melted, a whole new group of outdoor activities is available to visitors and residents alike. So put away the snow shoes, skis and snow boards and bring out the bikes, boats and camping gear. Interested in trying a new activity for the day without the investment in equipment? No problem. You’ll find plenty of places where you can rent a canoe, bicycle or even a fishing pole. The toughest part of living or visiting Big Bear during the spring and summer months is deciding what to do.

1…Paddle the Lake – Want to enjoy time on the water without the noise of an engine? Dip a paddle into Big Bear Lake for a relaxing experience. At this slower pace you’ll have time to watch shore birds search for food, see fish jump out of the water in front of you, or even feed the ducks that will swim up to you in your smaller boat.
All boats entering Big Bear Lake must have a permit and be inspected for Quagga mussels, including canoes and kayaks. Quagga mussels are a prolific and costly invasive species that will coat any hard surface with layers of sharp shells. Big Bear is taking measures to prevent a Quagga mussel infestation of the lake. Boat inspection stations are set up at the two public launch ramps, which are equipped with hot pressure washing stations and at several of the private marinas. Once your boat has passed inspection, you are free to launch. For motorized boats, a special band connecting your boat to your trailer will be installed when you pull your boat out of the lake. If the band is still intact when you return on another day, you will be allowed to launch without an additional inspection. Permits for a canoe or kayak are $45 per year. You can also purchase one, two, three, four or five day use permits. Fishermen float tubes also require permits. Permits are available at the two public boat ramps located on the North Shore or at the Municipal Water District office. The East ramp is located near Stanfield Cutoff and the West ramp is located just west of the city of Fawnskin.
Don’t want to hassle with permits and inspections…rent a canoe or kayak from any of the local marinas around the lake. The majority of the marinas are located on the south shore between Boulder Bay and Stanfield Cut off.

2…Go Take a Hike – Big Bear Valley is surrounded by National Forest and miles and miles of picturesque hiking trails for every level. From the relatively flat Alpine Petal path that follows the edge of the lake to the ten-mile up hill climb to the 9,952 foot summit of Sugarloaf Mountain, the highest point in Big Bear Valley, you’ll find something for everyone. Take a visit to the Discovery Center at 42300 North Shore Drive to receive a handout and maps for the eleven local hikes including information on degree of difficulty, round trip mileage, parking regulations and what you will see. Two of the trails, the Woodland Trail and the Champion Lodgepole Pine Trail are well-suited for families with children. You can pick up an informational brochure at the trailhead at each of these locations to take a self-guided walk with numbered points of interest highlighting the plants, wildlife and geology of the area.
For many of the hikes you will need an Adventure Pass parking permit which can be purchased at the Discovery Center and several other locations throughout the Valley. You can purchase this annual pass for $30 or a day pass for $5. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water, extra clothing, sunscreen, a cell phone, and snacks. .

3…Cycle the Mountain – Whether you rent a bike and helmet or bring your own, there are over 40 miles of biking trails throughout the forest from easy Forest Service roads to challenging single-track trails. For great views and an exciting ride, take your bike to the top of Snow Summit via the chair lift and then ride the Forest Service dirt roads back down. Not that adventurous? The Alpine Pedal Path on the North Shore is a three and a half mile asphalt trail that follows the lake from Stanfield Cutoff to the Solar Observatory. A group of cycling enthusiasts is working hard to create a bike route through the city on less crowded streets. Visit one of the local bike shops to receive a free map of these routes.

4…Catch a Fish – Fishing in Big Bear Lake can take many forms. From pulling up a chair and fishing from the shore, to trolling behind a boat with lead core line, to casting a dry fly from a float tube, Big Bear Lake has something for every angler. A visit to one of the local sporting good stores or marinas will put you in touch with the experts who can hook you up with a fishing license, bait and plenty of tips on how to catch a real lunker. Kids 15 or younger can fish without a license. Need more help? There are several fishing guide services that will take care of everything except reeling in your catch.
If you want to guarantee that your kids will hook up with a big trout, take them to Alpine Trout Lakes located off of Big Bear Boulevard at 440 Catalina Road. Here you don’t need a license, fishing poles or bait. For a fee, everything is provided. Bring your own fishing gear to save on the fishing pole rental fee.

5…Ride a Horse – Experience Big Bear sitting on a saddle during a guided horseback ride. Whether you choose an hourly ride, half-day, or sunset adventure you can get in touch with your inner cowboy as you ride through the pine trees of the National Forest. The Baldwin Lake Stables and Petting Zoo is located at the east end of Big Bear Valley on 46475 Pioneer Town Road, Big Bear City.

6…Whack a Ball – Tennis anyone? Or how about a game of golf? Big Bear has both. Free public tennis courts can be found at two locations in Big Bear Valley. Big Bear Lake’s Meadow Park is located at the end of Georgia, on Park Avenue. In the East end of the valley in Erwin Lake you’ll find more tennis courts at The Ranch, located at 2050 Erwin Ranch Road. Neither of these courts have lights for playing after dark.
Golfing enthusiasts will tell you their golf balls soar further at 7,000 feet. Check it out for yourself at the nine-hole Bear Mountain Golf Course located at the base of Bear Mountain ski area on Moonridge road. A driving range and chipping green will help you perfect your game.

7…Soar Above It All – Have you ever wanted to fly a plane? At Pacific Crest Aviation you can take advantage of an introductory flight lesson for as little as $99. After a brief lesson on the ground, it’s up, up and away in a Piper 180 with your instructor. You’ll learn to take off and land, and actually take over the controls as you circle around the lake. They also offer a one-hour scenic flight with views of Lake Arrowhead, Big Bear Lake and Palm Springs for $175 for up to three people. Call 909-585-9663.
Parasailing is another way of getting a bird’s eye view of the lake. Starting from the comfort of a high-powered ski boat, the expert crew will slowly unwind your tether until you are 300 feet in the air. Single and tandem rides are available. There is a minimum age of eight-years-old and some weight restrictions. For more information contact Big Bear Parasail at 866-IFLY.

8…Get Wet – As the lake warms up in the summer, windsurfing, water-skiing and jet skiing become popular ways of experiencing the lake. The local marinas rent jet boats and will take your group out on the lake for a day of waterskiing or wake boarding. If you don’t want to wait until summer, then don’t forget to bring your wet suit.

9…Camp Under the Stars – You’ll discover the stars again when you plan a camping trip in Big Bear Valley. Serrano Campground, located near the lake on the North Shore, is operated by the Forest Service. To make reservations at this campground and other Forest Service campgrounds in and around the Big Bear Valley, go to www.Recreation.Gov or call the National Recreation Reservation Service at 1-877-444-6777. There are also a number of private campgrounds and RV parks, some right on the lake, with electrical and sewer hook-ups for trailers and motor homes. No matter how you camp, make sure you check out the stars before you turn in for the night. You won’t be disappointed.

10…Come Face to Face with a Bear – Lions and tigers and bears, oh my. The Moonridge Animal Park has mountain lions and bears, but no tigers, but it’s still a great place to see many of the animals, birds and reptiles that make Big Bear Valley their home. Located off of Moonridge Road on Goldmine Drive at the base of Bear Mountain Ski resort, the Animal Park is open seven days a week from 10 to 4 M-F and 10 to 5 on weekends.
© 2009 Big Bear Magazine

Please tell our businesses you found them on BigBearMagazine.com

Cougar Crest Trails - Views from Above

2010-08-29T12:40:00.000-07:00

Story and photo by Sandy Steers.

When people talk about the beautiful views of the lake available around the valley, Castle Rock nearly always gets mentioned somewhere in the conversation. Not so many seem to know there is another trail with amazing views from the other side of the lake—Cougar Crest trail.
This north shore hike begins about half a mile west of the Discovery Center and the parking lot at the trailhead requires an Adventure Pass. If, however, you prefer to save money and add distance to the hike, there is a paved pathway leading to the trailhead from the Discovery Center parking lot.
The beginning of this trail is fairly wide and climbs slowly, allowing hikers to build up momentum at their own pace. If you happen to hike this lower section in mid to late summer, you may be fortunate enough to see, and especially to smell, the beautiful rose sage that grows here. The striking and fragrant purple flowers of this rare sage can enhance the experience of any hike.
As the trail climbs and narrows, it also begins a winding pattern, like very long switch-backs. Most of the trail has open exposure to the sun, but along the way there are some nicely shaded areas for taking breaks on a comfortable rock or log. Not quite half way to the top, the trail passes through a gorgeous manzanita meadow.
The climb continues, getting rockier, still narrower and gradually steeper, until around a bend a panoramic view of the whole lake opens up. The timing of the view is perfect. Just when the trail is seeming long and a mind might start wondering how much further it is to the top, the next step brings you out of the trees and takes your breath away. You are higher than you realized you had climbed and the view fills your body with new vigor. Now it’s only about another half mile to the top, where the Cougar Crest meets the Pacific Crest Trail—2 miles in all to this point.
This summit where the trails cross is perfectly shaded and supplied with sitting logs for a pleasant break, a refreshing drink of water and a little snack. Then, unless you are continuing along the PCT, it’s time to head back and enjoy that awesome view again on the way down.
The entire hike on this trail is quite pleasant and merits repeating often. The only caution—it is also well-loved by rattlesnakes. Just stay aware, watch where you step and keep an eye on your four-legged companions. The trail and the view are well-worth the adventure.

Tips for Painting Your Big Bear House

2010-08-29T12:32:00.000-07:00

From the archives of Big Bear Magazine, 2005, Written by Chris Fonda

It’s a scene some of us are all too familiar with: our living space suddenly becomes invaded with plastic drop-cloths, ladders, paint cans, and paint brushes. Sometimes, the phrase, “What was I thinking?” can be heard coming from the homeowners mouth if you listen carefully enough. But with a little planning and know-how, painting your house can be a rewarding experience.
There is a lot more to painting your house than just picking out a color and brushing it in. In fact, you should think of your house’s paint the same way that you think of your clothes. Why? We all know that our clothes do more than just make us look good. They protect us from the elements, they help keep us warm or cool, and they can make us look good too. In Big Bear, we have some unique challenges to keep in mind if you’re thinking about dressing up the outside of you’re home. At nearly 7000 feet above sea level, the sun’s rays are much more intense, which can cause paint to blister and crack prematurely. Secondly, there is the fluctuating day and night temperatures to contend with. A 75 degree daytime temperature typically plummets into the 40’s at night. Next, you must contend with the snow and rain from time to time as we’ve seen this winter. And lastly, don’t forget about the dry, desert-like air.
So, let’s start with the biggest decision you’ll have to make: Should you attempt to do it yourself, or should you hire a professional? “I get a lot of calls from people who realize in mid-project that they have taken on more than they can realistically handle,” says Robert Critelli, Critelli Painting. It all depends on your budget, timeline, and how good you are at juggling a paint brush on a ladder thirty-five feet above the screwdriver that you need to open the paint can in your hands. All of the professionals consulted with agreed on one point here: An experienced painter will almost always do a more thorough job than doing it DIY. After all, it’s what they do day in and day out – paint. A more thorough job will result in a longer lasting paint job. Chuck Juliana, owner of Chuck’s Painting says that, “You can usually count on getting four to six years out of a quality paint job at this elevation compared to eight to 10 years down the hill. For this reason, you’ll want to use a really high quality product. Don’t look to save money on your paint, you’ll almost always regret it,” he adds.
“Preparation is the single most important element in ensuring a good finish,” Juliana says. “Before lifting a brush, the end result is greatly affected by the way you prep the house. You’ll want to remove any cracked or peeling paint first. A putty knife and a sander will work fine for most jobs. You don’t have to sand your entire house, just hit the spots that are obviously damaged,” Juliana adds.
If you don’t address these spots and just paint over them, they will continue to crack and peel underneath the newly applied paint. This is where you need to really take a close look at your house. Look for nail holes that might need to be filled in with caulking or wood putty and places where the old paint has lifted up and peeled. The south side of the house is usually a good candidate for cracking and peeling paint since it receives the most direct sunlight. A damp cloth should be used to remove any dust left behind from sanding. It’s also a good idea to use a high quality exterior grade caulk to fill in any holes and cracks in the wood. Just apply the caulking directly to the crack or hole, and wipe it smooth with your finger. This would be a good time to check the caulking on your windows and doors too. With time, the caulking wears away and gaps form letting cold air into the house and warm air out.
Next, you’ll want to use a high quality primer to cover the areas where you sanded and chipped away at the old paint. Again, you don’t need to prime the entire house, just the spots where you sanded and caulked. This step acts as a sealer. The primer seals in all of that hard work that you just did sanding, and scrapping and caulking. In Big Bear, most professionals use oil base primer with latex paint over it.
At this point, your house should look somewhat like it has a bad case of the chicken pox. And, as tempting as it might be to just leave it like that, there’s just one last step – painting. “When you’re done with the prep work, you’re ready to start painting. Start from the top of the house and work your way down,” says Critelli. “Make sure that you’re honest with yourself at this point. If the prep work was overwhelming, you might want to consider having a professional estimate.”
All of the professional painters agreed that it’s worth putting two coats of paint on the exterior. There are many ways to apply paint. A brush and roller is the most popular method for DIY homeowners, but spray applicators work well and can save time too. Whichever way you choose, start by brushing in the trim (the top, bottom and corners.) Make sure that you apply the paint generously enough to soak into the wood evenly. “One thing you’ll want to keep in mind is that you want to paint some of the more difficult areas of the house along with some of the easier spots,” says Critelli. “If you do all of the easy painting first then you’re left with all of the tough spots, people tend to get discouraged at that point.”
If you’re planning on staining your deck at the same time, here are a few pointers. As with painting, preparation is important. You’ll want to use a power washer to remove any moss or mildew from the decking boards. You can also purchase chemical washing agents that will remove everything, including the old stain. Once the deck is cleaned up, you’ll want to again apply a high quality deck stain – don’t go cheap here!
So, either grab a brush or grab the phone this summer and give your house a new look!

© 2005 Big Bear Magazine

CHAUTAUQUA - Where the Present Meets the Past

2010-08-29T12:23:00.000-07:00

This story was written by Nina Truex and originally published in Big Bear Magazine, 1995. We’ve changed only dates, to update the story. BBM

What does the name “Chautauqua” bring to mind - a local school, a lake or county in western New York, a nineteenth century educational center? It is all these, and more. The word is an English variant of early French explorers' translation of a Seneca Indian word of many meanings. On 1804 maps it was spelled Chautaughque and in 1859 shortened to Chautauqua.
The venerable Chautauqua Institution was founded in 1874 at Chautauqua Lake, New York, by Methodist clergyman John H. Vincent, and philanthropist Lewis Miller, as a summer outdoor education center for Sunday school teachers. Its success quickly expanded into an annual educational and cultural assembly for the masses and eventually spread worldwide. “The whole of life is a school...education, once the peculiar privilege of the few, must...become the valued possession of the many,” wrote Dr. Vincent. The Institution became known for its unique and diverse programs on literature, music, fine arts, and recreation, in addition to religion.
From its origins at the lovely lakeside setting, traveling tent show “Chautauquas” of stimulating lectures, concerts, and recitals were welcomed in rural communities throughout the United States, to educate and entertain the common people. Big Bear's own Chautauqua High School, so named by former teacher, Bill Wright, honors this concept of continuing education, states current principal, Steve Schour.
In the spirit of this tradition, History Alive-Chautauqua! came to Big Bear Lake in the summer of 2000, as part of California's Sesquicentennial celebration. Former Big Bear City Mayor Rita Lack was instrumental in initiating the program due to her love of history and personal experiences attending the Institution in New York.
The Friends of the Big Bear Valley Library continue to sponsor this annual event, according to spokesperson Ellen Nichols. Past programs featured portrayals of Dame Shirley, California Gold Rush Wife; Pio Pico, Early California Governor; Jose Jesus, California Indian; John Sutter of Sutter's Mill. Last year, Wyatt Earp was portrayed by his real-life descendant, Wyatt Earp! The Sixth annual Chautauqua Program, once again features the present-day Wyatt Earp, but this time he'll portray the original Earp's friend, legendary dentist-¬turned-gunman, Doc Holliday.
Now a National Historic Landmark, the 131 year old Chautauqua Institution is a thriving summer community where visitors young and old still come to experience relaxation, intellectual growth, and spiritual renewal. President Theodore Roosevelt perhaps best summed it up when he stated “Chautauqua is typically American in that it is typical of America at its best.”
For further information on the Chautauqua Institution, log-on to www.chautauqua-inst.org/
© 2005 Big Bear Magazine

Big Bear People - Roger Nannini - Big Bear Artist Appreciated Around The World

2010-08-25T19:45:00.000-07:00

Long time Big Bear resident Roger Nannini has become an accomplished primitive/trompe l’ oeil artist, whose talent is appreciated and recognized by collectors and publishers around the world.

Born in Pawtucket, Rhode Island in 1942, he moved to sunny California at the young age of 15.

He sold his treasured ’57 Corvette to pay for tuition at Los Angeles’ prestigious Art Center School of Design. At the same time, he continued to study with many of the leading painters in California, where he has consistently won awards for his paintings and illustrations in open art competitions.

And he hasn’t looked back. In 1991, Mr. Nannini was recognized as one of America’s foremost painters by Artist Magazine.

His fanciful designs have been appreciated by children’s publishers, world-wide. “Josephine’s Toy Shop,” published by a London publisher in six languages, is a uniquely designed and delightfully illustrated “look and play” book, with moving parts on every page. He and his publisher have also published “The Incredible Cloud Machine,” both books of which are available by going to Google and typing in Roger Nannini.

Several of Roger’s images have been used by Ceaco Puzzles for their Home Sweet Home boxed collection and their Keepsake Tin Series.

For Big Bear Magazine readers, Mr. Nannini designed the first 4-color magazines, beginning in January/February 1996. Big Bear Magazine had the privilege of featuring several of his paintings on the covers, and again we are pleased to re-introduce you to his artwork. www.RogerNannini.com

If you are in Big Bear, he and his wife Susan, can still be found playing music at local restaurants, when he isn’t painting or creating new art. For more information, Roger can be reached at 909.744.7145 cell, or imagemaker9@charter.net.

© 2009 Big Bear Magazine

Please tell our businesses you found them in Big Bear Magazine.com

2010-08-21T09:57:00.000-07:00

Dear Home Work: When we have heavy snows, our roof doesn't totally melt, and an ice dam forms in two areas. Now we are getting leaks through the ceiling. How do we fix this?
Ice dams are caused when heat from the house begins warming the bottom of the snow on the roof. The melting snow runs down the house, until it reaches an area that doesn't receive any heat - like a porch, over¬hang, or eaves. That snow remains frozen, and the melting snow gath¬ers, refreezes, and creates an ice dam.
The melt behind the ice dam backs up until the water finds a way through the shingles, tar paper, sheathing, insulation and drywall. It's not long before cold water begins dripping through the ceiling, and you have a major mess, with major potential damage.
Prevention, of course, is always the most successful way of avoiding ice dams. Good design in snow areas (no flat roofs, steeper angles), prevents the problem. You want the snow to run off the roof, not stay there. Metal roofs are virtually maintenance free from this type of problem.
If it's time to re-roof, and you choose shingles, have your roofer install a rubberized membrane ice and water shield before the shingles go down, on the effected areas. Use this rubberized membrane in all the valleys of the roof as well.
Short of re-roofing, there are sev¬eral options to consider. Make sure the attic (or rafter space if it's a cathedral ceiling) has enough insula¬tion for Big Bear. Ventilate the attic properly. (We've noticed many properties in Big Bear do not venti¬late the attic, but instead try to keep the warm attic, air tight. This may be a trade-off you need to consider). Insulation and ventilation will keep the heat away from the roof and pre¬vent the snow from melting - and in many cases alleviate the ice dam problem.
Another possibility is to install heat coils in a zig-zag pattern over the area above the eaves. This will heat the area and let the snow run off the roof. However, if the electricity goes out, or the coils are broken, the system won't work , but the ice dams still will.

2010-08-21T09:49:00.000-07:00

Dear Home Work: I have a cabin that the homeowner finished himself The trim work is plain and the installation is not very well done. What can I do to jazz up the inside?

Take a good look at your present interior. If your cabin is an older, rustic-type home with much exposed wood, upgrading your doors and moldings can preserve and enhance that original look and charm. For newer homes, you can create that charm. Here are a few ideas to consider:

Interior Doors

If your inside doors are hollow, slab doors (flat), solid core raised panel doors are the most common upgrade. The doors are available in almost any wood, but you'll find fir and pine are popular and reasonably priced, and solid oak doors in the higher price range

It's usually recommended that the entire jam, door and moldings be replaced at the same time for the most successful project. By adding a bit larger molding to your new door, wall damage can usually be kept to a minimum, and you may avoid repainting or re-wallpapering the areas around the door.

Interior Windows

If you have aluminum windows, inset in drywall, you can add wood sills, sides and top, offset by new moldings, to create a custom looking window design. For older windows, new moldings alone may give you that new look.

Interior Moldings

Base moldings, case moldings (window and door), crown moldings, chair rail... they can be mixed and matched in numerous styles and woods. If your home is newer, and you have a standard small rounded molding, you'll be amazed at the difference and warmth crown molding and detailed base molding can add. If you plan on painting your molding, save dollars by purchasing "finger-joint" molding, rather than "clear" wood moldings required for staining.

Creating a wall

Want to really enhance a room or wall with paneling and moldings? A veneered wall of squares and rectangles, laid out with boards or plywood strips can be beautifully molded with raised moldings and create a look right out of a library or courtroom.

Closet Doors

Mirrored wardrobe bedroom doors can make a small cabin bedroom much brighter and larger looking. If you are replacing a similar size, you may be able to simply re-hang a standard size door. If you are

increasing the size, your contractor can usually re-frame your existing closet to accept the new door. Handrail and Banister systems Many older cabins have simple lumber for their stair systems, and they may not meet todays safety codes. In some cases, small children can fall through the existing spaces. New balusters and handrails can not only produce a new look, they can create a much safer environment.

The possibilities are simply endless when it comes to upgrading interiors with trim. Layout and installation are key elements to successful trim application. If you are an accomplished do-it-yourselfer, with the right tools for the job, it's a relatively easy project, but time consuming. If you're not, call a contractor qualified in finish and trim, for the job. You'll find a number of excellent choices during winter months in Big Bear, since much of the exterior work is slower due to weather conditions.

Dear Homework:

Our log home here in the Big Bear Valley has a metal roof. During a recent snow melt, the snow slid and broke off one of the vent pipes. How do we go about getting it fixed?

·Metal roofs are a natural for the Big Bear Valley, but we are still in our infancy when it comes to utilizing the product in residential situations. You'll see the product atop Big Bear schools, the Sugarloaf firestation, but still rarely on Big Bear homes. The advantages of metal roofing are great, and according to Bob Holcomb, Roofing Sales Coordinator for VicWest Steel, one of North America's largest metal roofing manufacturers, "the popularity of metal roofing is growing each year."

"Metal roofs are environmentally safe and sound, and supported by the EPA," he adds. Virtually maintenance free, they can be applied to any roof configuration, and come in a wide variety of colors."

Since residential applications are so popular in similar snow climate areas like Bend, Oregon and Aspen, Colorado to name two, experts predict Big Bear will also see an increase in metal roofing. Holcomb goes so far as to say it may very well become "the roof of choice for Big Bear," in the not so distant future.

Your problem, (losing your vent pipe), is one of the disadvantages we've discovered. An experienced roofing contractor can climb on the roof for repairs, as long as they position their weight on the areas secured by screws - the ribs, and strongest areas of the roof.

To avoid future problems, there are several options. BIG BEAR SHEET METAL suggests creating a "snow plow", a V-Shaped heavy gauge metal, that is placed above the vent pipe, to help guide snow and water around piping. Depending on the position of your vent pipe, this may solve future problems.

VicWest Steel manufactures a special vinyl guard, with a rubber flanged bottom, that is positioned around vent and stove pipes, caulked and screwed directly to the roof, designed to hold pipes in place and water and snow out.

Check with your specific metal roof manufacturer, and they will probably have a similar system to coordinate with your brand of metal roof.

2010-08-21T09:36:00.000-07:00

Dear Home Work: We have an older cabin, with older wooden windows that leak a lot of air. We aren't sure if we should replace them or not. Suggestions?

Your most cost-effective choice is to replace your wooden windows with custom fit,

aluminum dual pane windows, according to Craig Antes, owner, BEAR CITY GLASS (585-2037). "Replacing drafty single-panes with dual pane glass can dramatically increase, or even double your efficiency."

Antes says most Big Bear customers choose aluminum replacements due to cost. However, for those who want to keep the authentic look of their original cabin, wooden window replacements are also available. The tab for wooden windows is considerably higher, but wood is actually a much more efficient window than aluminum.

When you are able to remove and replace the frame holding the panes of glass in the window (the sash), without structural changes, you save a bundle on labor and repair. The time to insert the actual window is much less, plus you eliminate interior wall and molding repair and replacement, as well as exterior patchwork to siding. You also eliminate the need to repaint the inside and outside walls.

BEAR CITY GLASS says window replacements presently account for nearly a quarter of their business. It's definitely an option residents and 2nd homeowners are choosing to upgrade their home efficiency.

2010-08-21T09:31:00.000-07:00

Looking Back

Real Estate in Big Bear will always be of interest to homeowners and investors alike. Where, within two hours of the city of Los Angeles, can you find such a different environment, natural and serene?. Where, within just two hours again, can you be in the desert community of Palm Springs? Take a look at Big Bear in 1995. Walt Dwyer is still an active Realtor with ReMax RealEstate.

Big Bear Real Estate 1995

By Walt Dwyer

The 1995 Big Bear real estate market has been a mixed bag for the most part, as it was in 1994.

Through October of 1995, there were approximately 2550 properties for sale throughout the valley, with about 266 sales pending and 725 closed escrows for the year. Average market time ran 323 days for all active listings, with an average sale price of $115,000.

Of existing inventory available through October, about 1,350 were single family residential, 64 were condos, 41 were mobile homes, 10 were Gov't leases, 16 were business opportunities, 93 were commercial investment opportunities and 967 were vacant lots.

Prices on all properties dropped an average of 20% from 1991 highs, but did stabilize for the most part last year. Traditionally, December, October, then November rank as Big Bear's top three months for real estate sales. Early editorial closing prevents analysis of the 4th quarter for 1995, but September, (normally the 4th ranking month for real estate), did show more promise, reaching 83% of our 10 year average, with a total of 148 recordings for the month.

It's still a buyers market, but the best buys go quick. Are we coming out of a bad real estate market? New construction is up with positive feedback from local contractors who are bidding or have contracts ready to go in the Spring... another healthy sign that the market is recovering.

It appears that the number of units sold this year will be about 80% of the ten year average. Although low pricing and a long marketing time were the norm in this year's market, it looks and feels like better times are just down the road.

Fireplace or Wood Burning Stove?

2010-08-21T08:19:00.000-07:00

Originally published in 1996, much remains the same. However, check with the latest information through our locally owned fireplace shops for any new or updated information.

t's still very much a matter of personal preference.

If you are looking for the traditional romance once available only through wood burning fireplaces, you may be happy to know the industry has made some major advancements these last few years.

For the classic, traditional fireplace supporter, however, nothing may replace the comforting glow of firelight and the crackling flames. In fact, according to Paul Geiger, GEIGER SUPPLY the trend several years ago was definitely toward atmosphere vs. heat. While Geiger still sells many fireplaces, primarily Zero Clearance units, he sees heat efficiency becoming more of a consideration. Today he often sees more combination purchasing - perhaps a traditional fireplace, but also a more efficient heating or woodburning stove unit.

For many of the older cabins and homes where a masonry fireplace has been such an important focal point, it may be hard to give up that important part of the home. In cases where the chimney has been damaged or cracked, but the firebox and interior face remain intact, Geiger offers an approved anchor plate, allowing replacement of the chimney with piping. Not only does this preserve the natural beauty of the original design, it can be a big cost saving factor in reconstructing an unsafe chimney

But, no matter how you look at it, traditional fireplaces do not provide efficient heating. In fact, it is estimated that between 80 to 100 percent of the heat it generates escapes, right through your chimney in traditional wood burning fireplaces.

So how do you keep that traditional fireplace and lower your heating bills? Lowell Wilson, SUMMIT FIREPLACE & PATIO suggests popular fireplace inserts in those cases.

Hearthwarming Magazine contents, "For maximum heating potential, choose a fireplace insert that extends out onto the hearth. Adding a thermostatically or manually-controlled blower can go a long way toward compensating for reduced heating capacity, because an insert is a bit lower in overall efficiency than a wood stove. But, adding a fireplace insert can boost a negative efficiency to well over 60 percent."

Traditional wood stoves seem to be the biggest seller today for those looking for both efficiency and charm. "Today's stoves are nothing like the black boxes of the 70's...From contemporary to country to classic, they define decor in dramatic style. Elegant options include viewing doors and trim of 24 karat gold plating or solid brass, or handcrafted etched glass to add dimension to the flames."

Brian Rogers, FIRESIDE SALES sees a newer trend toward gas stove units. Available as an insert unit or free standing, these units qualify as a wall heater in construction, and offer both cleanliness and romance. He sees gas stoves being used often in master suite additions and as an excellent alternative for seniors or individuals tired of hauling wood.

With a fan to circulate the heat, Brian contends the electricity is minimal, and your additional gas bill is usually under $30.00 per month.

You'll find numerous options available to heat your Big Bear home. Before you make any firm decisions about your situation, take time to talk with your Big Bear professionals in the area. Not only will you find them extremely knowledgeable about the options that work best in our climate, they can educate you about the new changes available in an extremely changing industry. From the archives of Big Bear Magazine, January/February 1996 © Big Bear Magazine

El Pollo Loco Now in Big Bear

2010-05-19T09:33:00.000-07:00

The nation’s flame-grilled leader celebrates its 30th anniversary, bringing its citrus-marinated, flame-grilled goodness to Southern California’s favorite mountain getaway! COSTA MESA, CA – May 14, 2010 – Following much anticipation around the flame-grilled leader’s arrival, El Pollo Loco will open its doors at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, May 18, 2010 in Big Bear Lake. This is Big Bear Valley’s first El Pollo Loco. The new restaurant is the first El Pollo Loco for franchise partner, Pollo Loco Big Bear, Inc. Located at 41383 Big Bear Blvd. on the corner of Big Bear Blvd. and Conklin Avenue, the new restaurant is approximately 2,900 square feet and offers bright, comfortable seating for 68 guests. The restaurant employs approximately 30 new hires from the local community and is open seven days a week, from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Drive-thru service is offered, along with dine-in and take-out service. Catering for special events and celebrations is also available. Big Bear Valley’s first El Pollo Loco restaurant highlights the chain’s fresh, citrus-marinated chicken and Carne Asada style Sirloin steak cooking on the grill and features an open dining area with flexible seating and a cozy fireplace that encourage customers to relax and enjoy the El Pollo Loco dining experience. A self-serve salsa bar is also available so guests can easily customize their menu selections with any combination of El Pollo Loco’s signature salsas. All are prepared fresh every day. “We are thrilled to bring the people of Big Bear Valley our fresh, natural, citrus-marinated, flame-grilled chicken, as well as a wide variety of fresh Mexican entrees featuring our signature chicken and Carne Asada style flame-grilled Sirloin steak,” said John Toth, President of Pollo Loco Big Bear, Inc. “We think the people of this community are primed and ready for the distinct flame-grilled taste of El Pollo Loco-- flavor they won’t find anywhere else.” Founded in Guasave, Mexico in 1975, El Pollo Loco, pronounced “L Po-yo Lo-co” and Spanish for “The Crazy Chicken,” opened its first U.S. restaurant in 1980 and is famous for the unique preparation of its award-winning “pollo”-- fresh chicken marinated in a special recipe of herbs, spices and citrus juices passed down from the founding family. The marinated chicken is then flame-grilled, hand cut and served hot off the grill with warm tortillas, freshly prepared salsas, and a wide assortment of side dishes. Rounding out the menu are fresh flavorful entrées inspired by the kitchens of Mexico, including signature, grilled burritos, Pollo Bowl® entrees, Pollo Salads, tacos, quesadillas, Chicken Tortilla Soup and more.

Maltby Siding - 1995

2010-05-10T18:49:00.000-07:00

Dear Home Work:
We've recently purchased a home in Big Bear and want to make it look like a log cabin. We understand there is a popular siding called "Maltby" -- is "Maltby" siding still available?

We spoke with Tom Core, Big Bear's foremost authority on valley history, who was very familiar with Guy Maltby. (Tom Core passed away in 2006). He told us Mr. Maltby came to Big Bear in the 1920's, and simply fell in love with our valley. After a few different ventures, Maltby opened our first lumber yard, in the vicinity of the current Liquor Junction.

As the Valley grew, and the need for homes became apparent, Maltby got involved in the busilding business, and went on to build more than 500 homes and cabins. Most of these homes are covered in his trademark siding, and many of his originals still stand throughout the Valley.

Since no actual milling takes place in Big Bear, Maltby siding was specially milled, but imported from down the hill. Today, our local lumberyards are able to duplicate the original siding for repairs and replacement purposes, with custom milling, but it is cost prohibitive to custom mill siding for an entire home.

Today, most local builders and remodelers trying to reproduce the "look" of a rustic-type cabin or log cabin, lean towards the use of regular half-round logs, (mostly fir), which come to Big Bear from the Pacific Northwest areas. This siding is specially ordered on a per-job basis. Due to the cost again, the siding is often limited to key visual areas of the home, rather than complete covering of the home, as in the days of Maltby.

Home & Garden - Older, drafty cabin - 1995

2010-05-10T02:15:00.000-07:00

Dear Home Work:

I've got an older, drafty cabin that needs some attention. Winters seem awfully cold. Air leaks from the windows, even through cracks in the walls. The doors leak a tremendous amount of air. Help!!

In acquiring an older cabin, you've most probably captured a charm that is not available in some of our newer structures. But, we've come a long way with building procedures and new materials that are now standard procedure, that allow us to create a much more energy efficient home.

A few things you may consider to assist in creating your home as an air-tight unit - keeping your heat inside and the cold air outside.

WEATHER STRIPPING - it's extremely important in our area, where winter temperatures may drop even below the teens. Basically, weather strips are thin, linear materials placed between doors and windows, and their jambs to prevent air leakage. Weather strips seal operable joints, and should never be painted. Any good contractor can easily install the product, but it's also a simple do-it-yourself project that will help your drafty situation.

WINDOWS - if yours are the old wooden, single pane type, you may want to consider replacement. Bear City Glass offers simple-to-install storm windows that fit inside the house, on your window sill, as well as traditional storm windows for the exterior of your home.

WINDOW COVERINGS - Ellie Ferguson, Haus & Home Interiors, suggests new window coverings now available on the market can effectively decrease the transmission of heat or cold through old or new windows. A new cellular pleated shade design (honeycomb), available through numerous manufacturers is an extremely efficient covering for our colder climate.

INSULATION - additional insulation can be blown in, or bats can be laid in the attic area as well as under the floor, depending on accessibility. With insulation, you create a higher "R-Value" (resistance to heat flow). Adding insulation is often needed in older cabins.

FIREPLACE DAMPER - If you don't use your fireplace much, or are a 2nd homeowner, Rosie Hinojos, SW Gas, reminds you to close the damper to keep your warm air from escaping out the chimney.

CAULKING - for obvious cracks and flaws in older siding and cabins - fill the holes with caulking or foam. There are many types of fillers available for different applications. Check out our local lumber yards for the right materials for your project.

Windows in your cabin - 1995

2010-05-10T02:02:00.000-07:00

Dear Home Work:
We have an older cabin with older wooden windows that leak a lot of air. We aren't sure if we should replace them or not. Suggestions?

Your most cost-effective choice is to replace your wooden windows with custom fit, aluminum dual pane windows, according to Craig Antes, owner Bear City Glass. "Replacing drafty single-panes with dual pane glass can dramatically increase, or even double your efficiency."

Antes says mot Big Bear customers choose aluminum replacements due to cost. However, for those who want to keep the authentic look of their original cabin, wooden window replacements are also available. The tab for wooden windows is considerably higher, but wood is actually a much more efficient window than aluminum.

When you are able to remove and replace the frame holding the panes of glass in the window (the sash), without structural changes, you save a bundle on labor and repair. The time to insert the actual window is much less, plus you eliminate interior wall and molding repair and replacement, as well as exterior patchwork to siding. You also eliminate the need to repaint the inside and outside walls.

Bear City Glass says window replacements presently account for nearly a quarter of their business. It's definitely an option residents and 2nd homeowners are choosing to upgrade their home efficiency.

Music at the Mansion - 5/23/2010

2010-05-03T15:13:00.000-07:00

Music at the Mansion

The Arts Council of Big Bear Valley proudly presents a new season of the Music at the Mansion series, beginning with our May 23rd event at 3 P.M. – MMX.I.

The program will feature Musical Theater, Jazz Standards, and Contemporary Inspirational. The talented cast will include vocalists Caitlin Barney, John Grandi, Elena Peavy, and Diane Sloan Kubeja. Mike Cross and Barbara King will accompany on the piano and Alicia and Tawny Williams will play the violin.

Following the concert, at 5 P.M., a special dinner, prepared by chef Thomas, assisted by sous-chef Robert, will be served in the Knickerbocker Mansion’s famous dining room. Ticket price: Concert Only - $20, Special Menu Dinner - $20 (Tax and gratuity not included).

Seating is limited and reservations are strongly recommended. Please call the Arts Council at 585-5916. Credit cards accepted.

Submitted by

Ellen Nichols

Past president, Arts Council

585-7161

Home & Garden - Hiring Your Contractor 1995

2010-04-30T19:19:00.000-07:00

Dear Home Work: We are in the process of hiring a contractor for various home improvements, and we want to make sure he's legitimate. What do we look for? How do we protect ourselves?

This is a story we ran in 1995, and we've updated it several times through different magazines. Much is the same, but the amount the requires the attention of a contractor has risen from $300 to $600, and you can now find the board at www.cslb.ca.gov

Every licensed contractor carries a "pocket license," or "pocket ID," which identifies the individual contractor othe the business name under which the contractor is working. In California, any job that costs $600 or more, must be performed by a contractor who holds a current, valid license.

According to the CALIFORNIA STATE LICENSE BOARD, an unlicensed contractor, who may present a lower bid, and talk you into being your own general contractor, or owner/builder, may be doing you no favor. YOU, not the person you hire, assume responsibility for the overall job, which includes such things as state and federal taxes, workers compensation, and other legal liabilities. Should you have a complaint or not be satisfied with your project, you have very little legal recourse with unlicensed individuals.

Contractors may not work under another person's license. That would be the same scenario as someone driving under another person's drivers license. Not legal, not valid... delete that contractor from your list of professionals! Make sure the license you see belongs to the person you hire!

Always take the time to verify the status of the license. A license number does not verify its validity. You can easily check this by calling the Contractors State License Board's Automated System at 1-800-321-2752. By simply entering the contractor's number, you can confirm your contractor is licensed, and currently in business, and properly bonded. If things don't check out, move on.

Before you begin any remodeling project, have a contract, in writing, that clearly specifies the work to be done by your contractor.

In almost all cases, the law requires a contractor to give you a "written notice of your right to cance a contract within three business days of signing it. According to the CSLB, you should "use these three days to review the contract again." If something bothers you, the time to discuss it with your contractor is now, not after the work begins.

Check that your scope of work is specified completely. For example, if the contractor is to "supply and install" your faucet, make sure that is also in writing. The contract is your job outline, and it should detail exactly what will happen with your project, and who will supply what items.

Make sure your contract includes everything you feel is important to the job, including complete clean-up and removal debris and materials, and special requests like saving lumber for firewood or saving certain materials or appliances.

Finally, make sure your payment schedule is included in your contract, up front. California law requires the amount of down payment for any home improvement contract may not exceed $1,000 or ten percent of the contract price, whichever is less." Make sure additional payments do not get ahead of the contractor's work.

For example, payments for a new garage might read: Completion of grading, completion of slab, completion of framing, completion of electrical, etc. The entire schedule, with exact amounts owing, should be spelled out and signed off by the homeowner. Any additions made by the homeowner or contractor, should be documented with an additional work order that clearly specifies the additional work and if there is any additional charge for the work.

As with any legal contract, it must also include the name, physical address and license number of the contractor.

Al & Barbara Scharnhorst
Foothill Builders Home Improvement Co.
August, 1995

Home & Garden - Home Work

2010-04-30T17:49:00.000-07:00

In 1995, we began publishing Home Work, a series of questions and answers about remodeling and construction. While some of the businesses who originally advertised with us are no longer in Big Bear, some remarkably are still here, doing business with local and 2nd homeowners. As always, we encourage you to use local resources whenever possible. It has been a tough year for the country, and Big Bear is no exception.

August, 1995

Welcome to Home Work!
Welcome to our first issue of Home Work. This publication will answer some of the most commonly asked questions we've received throughout the year, regarding your Big Bear home.
Big Bear is a unique environment. Utilizing the local services and vendors included in this publication will almost always save you time, money and frustration. Local resources understand the local weather conditions and peculiarities.
In a resort town like Big Bear, a large percentage of the business population changes frequently. It is to your benefit to select businesses whose owners are committed to the community and dedicated to the Big Bear lifestyle.
Local vendors will assist you with your supply needs including quality paint products and building materials.
Al & Barbara Scharnhorst

2010-04-28T13:19:00.000-07:00

Public Service Announcements - Library

Evening in the Library Stacks

The Friends of the Library are proud to again present the popular Evening in the Stacks. Due to last year’s remodeling of the Library, it was necessary to skip a year, but this year promises to be that much better.

The event will be held at the Library on Saturday, May 15, from 6:30 to 9:30 P.M. The entertainment will include live music by Steve Cassling and the Simply Voices Choir and there will be programs such as Gardening by Linda Burgess, Jewelry Making by Verlaine Bennett, Rare Books by Meryl Bobzien, and biking and trails by Ken Dally, and antique cars by a representative from the organization..

Local restaurants, Copper Q, Sugarpine Bakery, Sweet Basil and Jasper’s Smokehouse are donating hors d’oeuvres and desserts. Coffee and wine will be served.

This is one of the primary fundraisers for the Library and guests will have an opportunity to become a Donor as a Page or a Bibliophile. Her honor, Liz Harris, Mayor of Big Bear Lake, and David Leach, newly elected man About Town, President of the Arts Council and past Rotary President will be on hand to explain these special opportunities to support the Library.

Donations for this event are $15 per person and advance tickets are available at the Library, checks only.

Ellen Nichols
Director of Communications
909-585-7161

Home & Garden - Securing your property

2010-01-04T22:05:00.000-08:00

Dear Readers:
(Jan/Feb 96)
"Big Bear crime for the most part, is a crime of opportunity," according to Sheriff's Captain Walt Hanson.

"We don't have tremendous spikes in crime that affect property owners. For the most part, we see burglaries, larceny or theft, and vandalism and malicious mischief. Some years are slightly higher, some years lower."

Valley-wide figures for 1993 saw the sheriffs office investigating 568 total burglaries, 684 larceny or theft calls, and 393 vandalism calls. 1994 figures for burglaries rose to 684, while larceny or theft dropped to 612 and vandalism dropped to 302.

Big Bear has a unique population breakdown - where only a third of our homeowners are permanent residents, two thirds are 2nd homeowners. The situation leaves many homes vacant and unoccupied for long periods of time, which can create opportunities for the criminal looking for the right situation. With literally millions of visitors arriving in Big Bear each year, Hanson suggests property owners take several steps to help prevent residential criminal activity.

"It always helps to be nosey." Hanson recommends you get to know your neighbors. If you are a 2nd homeowner, permanent residents will usually take the time to call if they see anything unusual happening at your home.

"The worst thing a 2nd homeowner can do is let their home sit dormant with no activity, for long periods of time."

Former Big Bear company Home Chek Services, owned by Jim & Linda Ackermann, offered routine inspections, maintenance and openings and closings for the 2nd homeowner. Jim always advised 2nd homeowners NOT to leave a spare key under the mat or in the electric box.

All Protection Alarm, still offers Big Bear homes alarmed protection, valley-wide, with the only monitoring station here in Big Bear.

Most agree it is definitely a wise idea to keep a key locally, if your home is not on a maintenance or security program, you may be able to leave a key with a neighbor, your contractor, even your Realtor. If you hide a key on the premises, be creative, and hide a key in an easily explainable location, but not an obvious spot.

It's hard to evaluate, but the posted signs from security and maintenance companies may in themselves offer a deterrent to the local or Big Bear visitor-type criminal.

Captain Hanson offered the four "D's" derived from the Neighborhood Watch Program.
1. Deter - noisy neighbors, children, dogs, citizen patrols, alarms, etc. Know your neighbors. (At this writing in 1995, Big Bear had an active Citizens Patrol, with more than 60 volunteer members, who donate of 10,000 hours per year, driving our streets and looking for unusual activity.)

2. Deny - Keep your doors and windows locked, including your garage door. Keep landscaping cut back from windows and entrance ways. Don't give criminals an easy target.

3. Delay - Make your home look "lived in" even if you are gone. Use timers for lights, radios, televisions. Have a neighbor pick up any newspapers. Park a neighbors car in the driveway.

4. Detect - report suspicious persons or activity. If your home looks like it has been burglarized, don't enter. Go to a neighbor's residence and call the police immediately.

"Often," Hanson admits, "we aren't going to catch criminals in progress." Make an inventory of your property - know exactly what items you have in your home." If you have a video camera, it's a good idea to tape your items and keep the tape in a safe place at your primary residence.

Big Bear 2nd homeowners are in a more vulnerable position, due to the fact that their homes lack consistent activity. It is worth acting on prevention of crime before your home becomes a target and you become a victim.

Barbara Scharnhorst, Publisher/Editor
(c) ABC Media and Promotions,Inc. Unauthorized duplication prohibited. All rights reserved

Home & Garden:(Big Bear Spas) Pampering Yourself

2010-01-02T20:36:00.000-08:00

Dear Readers:
Ok, want to be honest here. Connecting all the social networking dots is still a challenge. Somehow I received a response to yesterdays blog, but now I'm having a hard time finding it and/or posting it so you all can read it. I'll continue looking.

Some of the names have changed, but this story is still very informative.
(Jan/Feb 1996) "People come to the mountains to get away... from the noise, the commotion..to relax." "A spa accelerates that relaxation process," according to Big Bear Spa Guy, Gary Crowe. "There is absolutely nothing better than sitting in your spa in the winter and snow."

"Swimming Pool/Spa Age reports the relationship between spas and spa clientel has grown from more than a mere infatuation in the late 1970s and early 1980s into a much deeper and more complicated relationship. "Aging baby boomers, now saddled with children, high stress jobs, mortgages and muscle pains, recognize spas as retreats where the weary can enjoy the stress-reducing effects of pulsating 100 degree water, soaking away at least some of the physical pains that accompany growing older."

Who are today's spa buyers? Patrick McCarthy, marketing director for Caldera Spas defines them internally as falling into two market segments - OPALS (Older People with Active Life Styles) and DINKS (Dual Income/No Kids.) Locally, Gary sees buyers from their late 20's into their 60's. The majority of Big Bear spa buyers are 2nd homeowners and often they are fairly new to the area. For new buyers to the area, a spa seems to be one of the "necessities", not a luxury anymore, according to Gary.

Because of our resort oriented community, where many of our 2nd homes are also rented, Gary sees a major trend towards adding a spa to rental properties and cabins Former property manager Gayle Prentice, Gayles Resort Rentals added, "houses with spas are absolutely a large calling card and still hard to come by in Big Bear. Houses with spas can easily increase their rental rate by $50 to $60 per night."

Spa Guy only sells spas set up appropriately for Big Bear - extra insulation for the cold weather, framed with treated lumber that won't twist or bend and possibly crack the acrylic covering in our severe weather changes. Gary always recommends electric spas. Electric is more efficient with the moisture we experience, and with time clocks now available, you can program your spa to be "hot" continuously.

If someone is interested in buying a spa, we can usually find an appropriate spa for their budget." He quoted spas as low as $2200, back in 1995. Editors note: Things may have changed over the last 15 years.

(c) ABC Media and Promotions,Inc. Unauthorized duplication prohibited. All rights reserved

And Now They are 24 and 25!

2010-01-01T18:14:00.000-08:00

Dear Readers:
Happy New Year!!
As I mentioned yesterday, I've decided to look back over the last 15 years and re-print and in some cases, revise some of our original stories, an idea I got from the movie Julie & Julia. Julie in the movie, actually counted out everything before hand, so she knew exactly that she would be done in a year, if she kept completely on-task. Rather than stress myself out over something like that, I'll just say - I think you'll enjoy some of the stories we've had from the past. And, I have no idea how long it will take me to get through 15 years of stories, but we'll find out in the next few years..

(Jan/Feb 1996) WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT BIG BEAR IN THE WINTER?
Perhaps children best express their love of Big Bear in the winter. Thank you to Teri Haatvedt, 5th grade teacher at Baldwin Lane Elementary School, and her students for reminding us of the simple pleasures of Big Bear winters.

"Sledding, because I like to hang with my friends.. My Grandma, Cousin and Aunt come up for Christmas.. snow falling from the sky..playing in the snow at night." Tanya

"I like snowboarding and sledding. The hot chocolate when it is cold.. it warms me up." Chad (Yes, this is our new Associate Publisher, and yes it is Chad Scharnhorst, who is now 25)

"I like to make snowmen and have snowball fights during winter. I like to ski. I like to build snow castles." Jessica

"My friends and I make snow angels..and snow houses...snow ball fights with my friends." Robert

"I like to have a snowball fight with my brother. I like to go to Alpine Slide. I like to play on the ice and try not to fall. When you try to get up, you fall down." Melinda

"The best thing about winter is a snowball war. I like snowball wars because I might win. I might lose, but its fun instead of throwing rocks at each other and hiding behind trees." Rob

"Sledding into a ditch, making a snow house, making angels in the snow, putting your face in the snow, drinking hot apple cider and cocoa." Amanda

"The best thing in winter is sledding..it's fun. I'm very good at it. I can stand up on my sled while it's going." Gavin

"Skiing,sledding and drinking hot chocolate." Clint

"I like to watch the snow fall from the sky. I like to go sledding and then go home and have a nice cup of hot cocoa. I really like to go skiing at night. And I do lots of fun things with my friends." Jennifer

"Go sledding drinking hot cocoa with my friends, making snowballs with my friends." Megan

"Sled, belly slide, jump off my deck and make snow caves. When I make snow caves I have to shovel snow to get a berm of snow to make a cave out of. Once I have a berm of snow, I hollow it out, so I can fit in. When it's hollow I can poke some holes in it so I can see. Use a hose and ice it. Then I get in the cave. Warm & toasty because no wind reaches you." Brett

"The best thing about living in Big Bear during the winter is taking the ice cold snow and making it ice cream." Lindsey

"I like skiing the best because I've been skiing since I was two years old..sledding because it's fun to sled and tip over. I like Big Bear for it's snow because it's white and it's good to eat." JJ

"Sitting by the fire, drinking hot chocolate, watching the snow fall out of the sky. It is very fun to watch." Jeff

"Looking at the stars when it's snowing, making tree ornaments for Christmas, going to my Grandmas and Grandpas house, playing football in the snow. Go into my friends hot tub and the snow melts when it hits the water." Mark

"Sled with your friends on a big hill.. drink hot chocolate and sit by the fire and roast marshmallows.. have a snowball fight.. make snowmen." Heather H.

"Go sledding because it is fun and you fall off the sled." Andrew

"Winter is my favorite season .. making snow castles, takes time, but last year it only took us half an hour to get done. I also like when the lights go out because there are many fun things we can do in the dark. When it's morning and the clouds are still there and it's dark, I love it. It makes me happy." Bridgette

"Big Bear is so beautiful in winter. When the sun shines on the snow, it sparkles and looks pretty. Lots of snow falls in Big bear. Enough to make snow walls, snowballs, igloos and snowmen." LaValle

"I like being in Big Bear in the winter because of the snow and Christmas because people share things. I think giving is the neatest thing in the world." Stevie

"I can go skiing on the slopes. The snow is fluffy so you can always ski really good. I like snowball fights because you get covered with snow. You get cold and then you have to warm up so you don't get a cold." Shannon

"I like to make a slushy. I like to drink it. Make sure it is clean. They taste good. You will like it. The end. Courtney

So, there you have one of the fun stories from the past. Remember yourself? Have some information you'd like to share? We'd love to here from you. For now, drop us an email at bigbearmagazine@gmail.com.

And Happy New Year!!
Barbara Scharnhorst, Publisher/Editor

Looking Back and Forward as well!! Millener Productions

2009-12-31T17:07:00.000-08:00

Dear Readers:
Over the Holidays I saw the fun movie, "Julie and Julia." Not a new idea, but I thought, why not look back over the last 15 years of publication, and pull some of the stories we've run in the past? Homeowners and 2nd Homeowners will find many tips, and everyone will find out new places to go, new hikes to take, and new people to meet. Amazingly, there are a few things that haven't changed much at all. One of the first stories we ran, was on photographer Richard Millener, Millener Productions, still located in the Village, at 685 Pine Knot Blvd.

(Jan/Feb 1996) Millener Productions is owned and operated by long time resident Richard Millener, (BA Graduate from Brooks Institute Photography). Richard can take your fine color portraits - in his studio, in the Big Bear environment, or your home. Adults, children, and even pets... Richard captures "the look" from years of experience and thousands of exposures.

Old Time Photos are exclusively offered in Big Bear by Millener Productions. He admits his interest in photography came first, and then the Old Time Photos. His studio is filled with literally hundreds of costumes, hats and accessories, dating from 1840 through 1910. Most of the costumes are duplicates of originals, including some which he called "perceived history" costumes. Those, he explains, are what we might expect to see from movies and television, but may not be authentic reality. "That's OK," he continues, "since bathing and water itself were in short supply, and true cowboys would look and smell quite different than we might expect." Occasionally, he will even have original clothing from an era, which has somehow survived the elements of time, and can be used for costuming.

Community minded, Millener Productions participates in Halloween in the Village, Big Bear's annual Oktoberfest, and the Old Miner's Days. Millener Productions is a member of Old Time Photography, Photo Marketing Association, and Kodak's Promise of Excellence Program.

Appointments or information can be obtained by calling 909.866.3054.

Barbara Scharnhorst, Publisher/Editor