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

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.

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

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

Flower Arrangements and Holiday Decorations

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.

Big Bear Decks, Outdoor Living at Its Finest

[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.)

Can You Still Hear Me?

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

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

Opportunity Knocks

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!”

Hiring A Contractor.

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

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.

From the archives of Big Bear Magazine, January/February 1996© Big Bear Magazine.

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.

From the archives of Big Bear Magazine, January/February 1996. © Big Bear Magazine,

Fireplace or Wood Burning Stove?

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

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.