What you need to know When you need to know it Weekdays @ 7am, 8am, 9am, 10am noon, 1pm, 3pm, 4pm, 5pm & 6pm on 93.3 FM and streaming online News Director: Catherine Sandstrom Copyright © Parallel Broadcasting, Inc. Thursday August 7th, 2008

Thursday, August 7, 2008

Planning Commission Holds on Decision Regarding Proposed Newsrack Ordinance for Big Bear Lake
At yesterday's meeting of the Planning Commission of the City of Big Bear Lake, the Commission reviewed an appeal from property owner Bob Chaney, as the City Planner had denied a Business License for a mortgage company on his property zoned Commercial-Visitor at 42262 Moonridge Road. This item will be continued to a future Commission meeting unless city staff can, in the meantime, determine that this location was grandfathered in (having once been the site of a related business) since development codes were updated. Discussion of and Public Hearing on proposed changes to the City's newsrack ordinance will also be continued to a future yet unscheduled meeting of the Commission. As the City had received input from publishers of two local publications questioning a new ordinance (that would effectively have an economic impact on their businesses if new newsracks were required), the Planning Commission asked staff to research options, including a lease program with a private contractor to oversee and provide uniform newsracks, thereby reducing clutter and restricted access to commercial buildings. Staff was also directed to look into extending the Village-specific plan area, beyond the Village L to the Big Bear Lake Post Office on Big Bear Boulevard, to provide uniformity should a newsrack ordinance be adopted.

Bear Backers, the Parent Organization That Supports BBHS Athletics, Holds Meeting on Monday Evening
The first general meeting of the Bear Backers, the parent organization that supports all Big Bear High School sports programs, will take place on Monday, August 11 at 5:30pm, in the BBHS Media Center. Bear Backers Publicity Chair Janice Etter tells KBHR, “We basically just raise funds, and then the coaches come to us for abnormal or special expenses. Some things that Bear Backers recently purchased include an ice machine for the training room (for when players have an injury) and mats for the wrestling team. We've supplemented uniforms for the volleyball team, and we've sent coaches to clinics.” The Bear Backers also produce an annual fall/winter sports program, which includes team rosters, photos, game schedules and directions. For those who would like more information on the Bear Backers, who welcome support for our children and Our House, you can join them at their Monday evening meeting, or contact Janice Etter at 866-0803 or via email at bbhsbearbackers@yahoo.com.

A Local Economic Boon Expected as Antique Car Club's 19th Annual Fun Run Returns This Weekend
This weekend marks the 19th annual Fun Run, hosted by the Big Bear Lake Antique Car Club. This year's run 'round the lake and car show in the Village has been highly anticipated, as spots for the 500 antique, classic, custom, street rod and muscle cars sold out in a record 11 days, once signups started in February. According to Cliff Fowler, President of the Big Bear Lake Antique Car Club, “The cars will start rolling in to the Village on Friday, but we hear that some of them already came to Big Bear last week.” The Fun Run event includes a 9am show 'n' shine of all 500 cars in the Village on Saturday, which will include a raffle sponsored by the Village merchants. At 3:45pm on Saturday, the barricades come down and all the cars exit the Village to take their Fun Run around Big Bear Lake. The festivities on the 9th continue with the street dance in the Bartlett parking lot, from 6 to 11pm, featuring hamburgers, beer and wine, and the music of local rock band Slick City. (Cost for the Saturday night street dance is just $4, $2 for those ages 10-15, and free for kids under 10.) On Sunday morning, the fun of Fun Run continues with a 9am awards ceremony which, per Fowler, “is unique because it's a drive-thru, so spectators will be able to see all the award-winning cars.” The ceremony will also include the opportunity drawing for a full-dress Chevy small block engine donated by Napa Auto Parts. “The Big Bear Lake Antique Car Club,” adds Fowler, “expects that this year's Fun Run, our 19th annual, will bring another big economic boost to Big Bear. Last year's event had the greatest economic impact of all the events in 2007—and, the more money we generate, the more the car club will have to share with local charities.”

County Supervisors Approve Expenditure for Wildlife Corridor Signs to Be Placed on Mountain Highways
At Supervisor Dennis Hansberger's request, on Tuesday the County Board of Supervisors approved the $9,000 allocation to purchase and install 26 wildlife signs and 10 deer signs at designated locations within the mountain communities. The non-profit organization Friends of the Mountain, Inc., with the help of the County's Department of Public Works, had secured permission from the California Traffic Control Devices Committee for experimental “wildlife corridor” signs to be placed on county roads and state highways. The purpose of the signs is to promote traffic safety, and thereby reduce fatalities of people and wildlife. Per Hansberger's office, a wildlife corridor is a habitual transportation route that animals use from one area to another—unfortunately, these heavily traveled wildlife corridors intersect with many of our transportation routes, causing injury to humans and animals. In a statement from Hansberger, he says, “Our goal is to raise public awareness and promote vehicular safety by installing these signs. Carol Pedder and the Friends of the Mountain, Inc. are to be commended for their diligence in pursuing this program and securing the permission of the CTCDC, in order to protect human life, as well as our wild animals.”

Today Is a Minimum Day for Students at All Schools Within Bear Valley Unified School District
Today is the first teachers' Strategic Planning and Assessment Articulation Day of the school year for Bear Valley Unified School District. For students, this translates into a minimum day at all BVUSD schools, including Big Bear High School.

Municipal Water District May Fund Study for Installation of Bridge Once Dam Roadway Is Removed
The Board of Directors of the Big Bear Municipal Water District meets for their regular meeting at 1pm today, at their offices at 40524 Lakeview Drive in Big Bear Lake. During the meeting's Business Items, the Board will consider approval of the proposal submitted by Simon Wong Engineering for preparation of a planning study of the dam pedestrian bridge. Once the highway bridge is removed from the Big Bear Dam, as CalTrans is scheduled to build a new Highway 18 bridge just west of the dam, MWD staff would have limited access to the dam. In order to replace the roadway with a foot bridge and/or a pedestrian/light vehicle bridge, the MWD would need to negotiate a reimbursement agreement with CalTrans. By securing the services of Simon Wong Engineering, the preparation of an Advanced Planning Study could be readied for CalTrans. The report by MWD's General Manager Scott Heule says that the roughly $13,000 expense for the engineering work is not budgeted, but could be appropriately paid for with Dam Repair Funds.

Wednesday, August 6, 2008

Bear City and Big Bear Lake Fire Departments Meet Up in Moonridge--Not for Fire, But Engineer Exams
For those who may have wondered why crews and fire engines of the Big Bear Lake and Big Bear City Fire Departments were gathered in Moonridge today, the two agencies were conducting the engineers practical exam. This in-house promotional exam, which includes the water pumping that was visible to passers-by, is to establish a promotional list for potential promotions within each of the firehouses. Those firefighters who pass the engineers practical exam can then serve in an engineer capacity if needed in an emergency situation.


Before taking laps 'round the BBMS field at Monday's Community Send-Off, Olympian Ryan Hall was joined onstage by his family,
including wife Sara (in blue), parents Mickey and Susie, sister Kasey (in pink) and brothers Steve, Craig and Chad for a moment of
prayer; McKinley Warren displays her Ryan banner.

Olympian Ryan Hall Tells the Big Bear Crowd at BBMS: "I Can't Tell You How Much Gratitude I Feel"
Prior to Monday's Community Send-Off on the Big Bear Middle School field for Olympian Ryan Hall, Beth Gardner of the Lighthouse Project joined Hall for a lakeside press conference, which also included media outlets from off the mountain. In explaining the Lighthouse's Million Miles for Ryan Hall campaign (which we as a commmunity have exceeded), Gardner said, “Every mile has meaning. Every mile is a wish of goodwill for Ryan.” Hall concurred, saying, “It has been really inspiring for me to train here, and see all the Run Ryan Run signs. Almost every single run I've gone on, I've had people encourage me, or honk. Those are the images you take with you. I'm sure I'll have flashbacks to all the little kids, I'll have them in my heart when I'm out there. And whether or not I medal in Beijing, it has been worth it to see this community support me.” And support Ryan Big Bear did as, just after the press conference, he was greeted at the Community Send-Off by 2,000 or more friends, fans and family (including parents Mickey and Susie, wife Sara, brothers Steve, Craig and Chad, and sister Kasey). The ceremony for Hall included a prayer led by his dad and BBHS coach Mickey, and presentations by County Supervisor Dennis Hansberger and Big Bear Lake Mayor Rick Herrick, who described the 25-year-old marathon runner as a man of grace and power. After taking laps around the field with local students, local athletes Ted and Heather Devito, Karen Lundgren, and Paul and Jordan Romero, and his family, Hall was presented with the miles logged on his behalf, which included 91,800 from BVUSD students, and totaled 1,203,556 miles! Moved to tears behind his Oakleys, Hall told the enthusiastic crowd, “I can't begin to tell you how much gratitude I feel. One of the things that will flash through my mind in Beijing is this send-off. When you're watching on TV, know I'll be thinking of you.”


Ryan Hall's siblings Craig, Steve, Chad & Kasey; local athletes Karen Lundgren, Paul & Jordan Romero, Ted & Heather Devito.

BVUSD students, who logged their miles for Ryan, take a lap; the Big Bear High School cheerleading squad; and (below)
Mayor Rick Herrick congratulates Hall; Ryan and wife (and fellow runner) Sara take another lap around Minder Field.


Potentially 34 Candidates for Local Seats in November Election; Eight Have Pulled Papers for CSD Board
Thirty-four members of the Big Bear Valley have now pulled election papers and, should they be filed by Friday's 5pm deadline, we will have a number of candidates for local offices in the November election. Though no one other than incumbents Vince Smith and John Eminger have pulled papers for the two available positions on the Big Bear Municipal Water District Board, there could potentially be many candidates running for seats for the Bear Valley Unified School District, the Big Bear Airport District, and the Big Bear City Community Services District, for which eight have now pulled papers from the San Bernardino County Registrar of Voters. For the two available seats on the CSD Board, the following have pulled papers: Barbara Beck, Daniel Brown, incumbent Bob Colven, Lance Fowler, Rick Nelson, incumbent Rick Ollila, John Russo, and James Smith. For the three seats on the Airport District Board, potential candidates include Ken Dally, William Douglas, Gloria Ann Greene, Julia Smith, incumbent Gary Steube, Jack Williams, and Lynn Wilson. For the three Board of Trustees positions with the Bear Valley Unified School District, no incumbents have pulled papers, but the following have: Sharon Congdon, David Foltz, Beverly Grabe, Cathy Herrick, Jim McGowan, Randall Putz, and Paul Zamoyta. Two incumbents, Christopher Fagan and Ronald Peavy, have pulled papers for the three seats on the Bear Valley Communty Healthcare District Board; others potentially running include Dennis Carden, Michael Hartstein, Ed Kibbey, and Randy Vanos. For the City of Big Bear Lake City Council, the city clerk confirms that four have thus far pulled papers: incumbents Liz Harris and Bill Jahn, and Robert Pool and Barbara Willey. All paperwork must be submitted to the Registrar of Voters by Friday for those who wish to run. For more information on filing for the November 4 election, call the Registrar's office at 387-8300.

Ken Markling of Bear Valley Electric Service to Speak at Tomorrow's Big Bear Chamber Power Breakfast
The Big Bear Chamber of Commerce hosts their first-Thursday-of-the-month Power Breakfast tomorrow morning at 7am. Cost for the Power Breakfast, to be held at Northwoods Resort in the Village, is $12 for Chamber members and $15 for guests. Ken Markling, Operations Manager for Bear Valley Electric Service, will be the featured business speaker and will present information on the ulitity's proposed electric rate increase. (For those unable to attend tomorrow, details on the proposed BVES rate increase are posted in our story of July 30, if you scroll down.)

Preliminary Court Hearing for Winters, Day, Ferguson and Potts Moved from July 31 to September 17
Last week's preliminary hearing for Chalen Winters, the 19-year-old charged with the June 18 murder of Michael Lundin, has been held until September. Though the preliminary hearing for Winters, and the three local teenagers charged with felony assault with a deadly weapon—Christopher Day, David Ferguson and Mark Potts—had been scheduled for July 31, the County's Deputy District Attorney Alex Martinez says that, given the additional reports and audio tapes to share with the defense, the attorneys for the defendants needed more time. As all had previously agreed to a time waiver, allowing for an additional 60 days, the preliminary hearing will be held in San Bernardino Court by September's end. An August date was not scheduled as the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department's designated principle investigator is unavailable, so the preliminary hearing has now been set for September 17. In the meantime, Winters, Day, Ferguson and Potts remain in custody at West Valley Detention Center.

BVUSD School Board Meeting This Evening; First of Student Minimum Days Is Tomorrow for All Schools
The Board of Trustees of the Bear Valley Unified School District hold their first Board meeting of the school year, this evening at 6:15pm, at the school district offices at 42271 Moonridge Road. This evening's meeting is scheduled to include a staff presentation by Mike Ghelber, principal of Big Bear High School, who will outline the structure and duties of the BBHS counselors, Sarah Ortuno, Rob Benson and Lisa Schour. The Board meeting also includes approval of the BVUSD calendar. The first of the school year's Strategic Planning and Assessment Articulation Days is tomorrow which, for students at all school sites, translates into a minimum day on Thursday.

Airport District Board Meets This Afternoon; General Manager Will Report on Master Plan Amendment
The Board of Directors of the Big Bear Airport District meet today for their monthly meeting, as they do each first Wednesday, at 2pm in the airport pilots lounge. Today's Airport Board meeting will address the Master Plan amendment during the Manager's Report from General Manager Garry Dokter. In New Business items, the agenda outlines the continuation of a hearing on a Resolution of Necessity, to acquire through eminent domain all interest in the airport terminal building that the Big Bear Airport District does not currently own.

Planning Commission to Review Code for Newsrack Placement and Maintenance Within Big Bear Lake
The Planning Commission of the City of Big Bear Lake meets for the first of two meetings this month, at 1:15pm today in Hofert Hall. This afternoon's meeting will include a Public Hearing on a development code amendment, as it pertains to the placement and maintenance of newsracks, on both public and private property, within the City of Big Bear Lake.

Tuesday, August 5, 2008

Congressman Lewis Answers Questions on Oil Drilling and Home Foreclosures in Town Hall Meeting
Yesterday evening, Congressman Jerry Lewis conducted a town hall meeting via telephone, for those registered voters within the 41st Congressional District who were home to intercept his call in the 7pm hour. Those who answered land line calls within the Congressman's region were able to ask questions, including Mrs. Jones from Big Bear. Constituents from Apple Valley and Pioneer Town asked Lewis whether, in light of gas prices, Congress would be initiating more domestic oil drilling, to which Lewis responded, “There's not any doubt we have to develop domestic sources in a reasonable way. Frankly, I think in September there will be a strong majority thinking the same way.” In response to a question from Landers on the stability of the Social Security system, Lewis simply stated, “The most important thing for you to know is that Social Security is not going to go broke.” Those on the phone from the high desert, Desert Hot Springs and Newbury Springs expressed concern about home foreclosures, and Lewis explained that a Home Ownership Preservation Workshop will be offered on Saturday, August 16 at the National Orange Show's Valencia Room, from 8:30am to 3pm. “We'll have key people there,” Lewis said, and those involved will include the Department of Housing, the Federal Housing Administration and local, non-profit organizations available for advice and counsel. For more information on this workshop, or to assure that you are involved in future town hall meetings from your land line, you can call the Congressman's Redlands office at 862-6030.

First Community Picnic for Peace to Be Held at Big Bear Lake's Meadow Park Wednesday Evening
Tomorrow evening, the Mountain Healing Arts Association hosts a Picnic for Peace in Meadow Park. In what is being billed as the first annual community Picnic for Peace, families, pets, neighbors and stories are welcome. The event gets underway at Meadow Park at 6pm on Wednesday, and those who attend are asked to bring a dish to share and, as peace is created by sharing, say event organizers, all are invited to share in the giveaway table. Items that are in good enough shape for re-use, such as books, clothes and household items, can be brought to the Meadow Park picnic, which is expected to go until dark.


As of Monday's special event, 1,203,556 miles were logged for Ryan--you can add your miles
to the free, community spirit initiative by using the link at the top of this page. For more photos
from the event, be sure to visit tomorrow.

Community Sends Marathon Runner Ryan Hall to Beijing Olympics With Over One Million Miles Logged
Congratulations, Big Bear, as we have officially logged over one million miles in support of Olympian Ryan Hall! At yesterday's Community Send-Off for our local marathon runner, the Lighthouse Project's Beth Gardner announced the completion of 1,203,556 miles on behalf of the Move a Million Miles for Ryan Hall campaign, which, still, will continue until his Olympic marathon race date on August 24. On the podium while the mileage banner was unrolled by his wife Sara Hall and Mayor Rick Herrick, Ryan marveled, “Wow, you guys blow me away! Look what can happen when we all rally together.”

CalTrans Completes Highway 18 Repaving Project, Next Plans to Widen Big Bear Boulevard in Bear City
The CalTrans repaving project for the Arctic Circle portion of Highway 18 was completed last week, by July's end as scheduled. The next proposed CalTrans project for our area is billed as a safety project and will include the widening of Big Bear Boulevard in the Big Bear City area. The widened roadway, which will include 8' paved shoulders on the north side of Highway 18, will extend from Blue Water Drive (at Circle K) to Pinon Drive (at Eastside Book Café). The plan is to also add a left-hand turn lane at Big Tree Drive, the street that accesses the Big Bear Airport. To review the proposed safety project, CalTrans has tentatively scheduled a public meeting for Wednesday, August 20 at the Big Bear Area Regional Wastewater Agency offices in Big Bear City at 6pm.

County Supervisor Hansberger to Request Funding for Wildlife Corridor Signs for Mountain Highways
The Board of Supervisors of San Bernardino County hold their weekly meeting this morning at 10am, at the County Government Center at 385 North Arrowhead Avenue in San Bernardino. Today's meeting is scheduled to include a presentation by our Third District County Supervisor Dennis Hansberger, requesting approval of a $9000 allocation from the County's 2008-2009 Priority Policy Needs budget to the Department of Public Works-Transportation Division. These funds would be used for the purchase and installation of 36 road signs in connection with the wildlife corridor sign program. The experimental wildlife corridor signs, to be placed on county roads and state highways within the mountain communities, are intended to promote traffic safety and reduce fatalities of people and wildlife. The experiment will use the currently approved “deer” sign, along with the proposed “wildlife corridor” sign, thus allowing staff to evaulate and determine which is more effective and understandable for motorists.

Monday, August 4, 2008


The float of the Big Bear Valley Historical Society, complete with moving stamp mill and other
details, won the Sweepstakes Award in Sunday's 59th annual Old Miners' Day Parade, as the
group literally took the parade theme "Running for Gold"--and ran with it.

Historical Society and Chambermaids Take Top Honors for Floats in Sunday's 59th Old Miners' Day Parade
The 59th annual Old Miners' Day Parade, which was co-chaired by Neil Nickle and Joe Haeckle and included over 100 entries yesterday, featured the theme “Running for Gold” and the inclusion of many branches of the military, including recognition of the three families whose sons lost their lives as servicemen in Iraq, as the Kenyons, Stephens and Landakers were honored as the parade's grand marshals. In literally keeping with the “Running for the Gold” parade theme, the Big Bear Valley Historical Society took the top prize, the Sweepstakes Award, for best overall float, and the Chambermaids earned the Old Miners' trophy for their float—and, as it turns out, these were the two organizations that won top prizes in last year's parade. In awards for other floats, the Big Bear Cowboy Gathering took first place, second went to Bearly Speaking Toastmasters and third went to the Kiwanis Club of Big Bear Valley. The only children's float entry was from First Baptist Church's Bear Valley Kids Camp, who took first place with their float themed “Run for the Eternal Prize.”


Grand marshals Laura Stephens, Laura and Joe Landaker, and Rick Stephens gather at pre-parade dinner on Saturday; the U.S. Army Calvary Regiment from Ft. Irwin; Big Bear Lake Councilmember Michael Karp and wife Deborah.

Miss Clementine Keli Homan drives her own horse-drawn carriage; the award-winning Chambermaids float; and Skippy Dee Clown.

The car entry from Hamilton Ranch Estates; the Kiwanis Club's "runing for gold" float and tribute to Mac McAlister; and Larbi Loucif with the Bearly Speaking Toastmasters' llamas, "Come Se Llama" and "Dolly Llama."

The runnin' gold boots of the Big Bear Cowboy Gathering float (with scholarship winner Daisy Ojeda in front); the Baptist Church's Jesus-themed float, that reads "Run for the Eternal Prize"; returning float judges Lieueen Thomas, former 'First Lady' of the Tournament of Roses Parade, and locals Katherine Blanc and Catherine Sandstrom. To copy any of these photos, or see a larger version, you can use your mouse to right click on pic.

School Resumes Today for the Seven Schools of Bear Valley Unified School District, Now in Its 50th Year
After seven weeks of summer vacation, the students of Bear Valley Unified School District—about 3,200 of them—return to school today in what will be the 50th year for the district, which now includes seven schools, including Fallsvale Elementary off Highway 38. Superintendent Carole Ferraud says that, last Thursday, all BVUSD teachers and staff gathered for their annual back-to-school summit, which included a '50s theme. “We had our annual summit,” Ferraud tells KBHR, “and it was fabulous. It was a positive, upbeat kick-off to the school year, and we're celebrating 50 years of BVUSD.” As the district moves into the 2008-2009 school year with a reduced budget, Ferraud says, “We had to tighten some things up, but I think we did a pretty good job keeping the cuts away from kids.” One change going forward is the elimination of Late Start days for the high school—instead, BBHS students will get an early release to accommodate teacher planning, and Ferraud expects this will be easier for families as all students, district-wide, will have the same early release dates. And though it is the 50th year for the district, it is the third school year for Ferraud, who was named superintendent in January of 2007. Of those things she looks forward to on the horizon, she says, “We will release test scores in a couple weeks, so we're looking forward to that.”

Community Send-Off for Olympian Ryan Hall at BBMS Field Today; MARTA Trolley Service Available
Today is the big day, as the Community Send-Off for Olympian Ryan Hall gets underway at Big Bear Middle School at 5:30pm--rain or shine. Gates to Minder Field open at 4:30pm, for the event to celebrate Hall, a 2001 Big Bear High School graduate, and the students of our community, who have logged their miles in support of the Move a Million Miles for Ryan Hall campaign. Says program coordinator Beth Gardner of the Lighthouse Project, “Ryan has said all along that he feels so supported by the people logging miles on his behalf. We really see every mile as a well wish for Ryan, and every participant one of Ryan's key supporters. Ryan can take the miles with him to Beijing, along with the memory of having his whole community cheer him on as he takes a lap for us at the Middle School before leaving for the games. For those of us who won't be at the [Olympic] games, it's the next best thing.” As a large turnout is expected this evening, carpools are encouraged. The MARTA trolley will be available from the Bartlett parking lot in the Village, with a pickup at 4pm, followed by a pickup at the Vons parking lot at 4:20pm. Second trips will be made from these parking lots to BBMS by 5pm, and cost for the trolley will be $1 each way, half-price for seniors, and free for children under 6. Adds Gardner, “We really hope the whole community will come out and enjoy this special event and not be concerned about parking. The MARTA trolley service gives people the chance to park in some great, spacious lots away from the traffic that will surround the event with a very convenient way to get to and from Big Bear Middle School. It is just one of the many wonderful contributions being made toward making this event a truly memorable one for all of us.” Attendees at this evening's Community Send-Off for Ryan Hall are encouraged to bring signs and banners, as well as blankets for the field—and don't forget to wear your Run Ryan Run hat!


Ryan Hall and Beth Gardner, following their presentations at February's Lighthouse
Project Community Summit at the PAC.

The Campaign to Move a Million Miles for Ryan Hall Has, as of This Morning, Achieved 878,420 Miles
Since December, the Lighthouse Project has encouraged the community to take part in the free, community spirit initiative to Move a Million Miles for Ryan Hall. Since that time, 2,890 people, including students at all local schools, have moved miles for Ryan, walking, running, skiing, pedaling and paddling. The Million Miles tally, as of this morning, is 878,420 miles logged, and those miles will be presented to Ryan at today's Community Send-Off. Hall's marathon race date is in just 19 days, so you can still contribute to the free Million Miles effort, by simply logging your miles online—a link to the Million Miles campaign is available on the top of this page.



Friday, August 1, 2008

Big Bear's National Night Out Celebration, a Free Family Event, at the Convention Center Next Tuesday
The community is invited to join the Big Bear Sheriff's Station in celebrating the 25th anniversary of National Night Out on August 5. The event for our community will be held at the parking lot of the Big Bear Convention Center, at Big Bear Boulevard and Division, on Tuesday, from 4 to 7pm. National Night Out celebrations are designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, generate support in local anti-crime programs, strengthen neighborhood spirit, and build partnerships between local law enforcement and the communities they serve. To that end, local law enforcement and fire department personnel will be in attendance at Tuesday's free event, sponsored by the Big Bear Sheriff's Station and the City of Big Bear Lake. A bounce house and activities will be available for children, choppers and antique cars will be on display, information on local programs and resources will be available, and burgers and pizzas will be on sale. The Blood Bank of San Bernardino and Riverside Counties will also be stationed at the Convention Center, for those who would like to donate blood during the National Night Out Celebration which, again, is a free family event which runs from 4 to 7pm on Tuesday.

BBHS's Class of 1987 to Reunite for Homecoming; Class of 1998's Reunion RSVP Deadline Extended
Big Bear High School's Class of 1987 has scheduled an informal reunion barbecue for Homecoming weekend September 20, when the classes of 1958, 1988 and 1998 are scheduled to reunite in Big Bear. The Class of '87 gathering will take place at the home of Tom and Jamie Gustason in Big Bear City, and friends and families of the class are welcome to attend. RSVPs are requested by September 1—call the Gustasons at 584-9607 for more information. Those from the Class of '98 have, now, until August 31 to secure their place at the 10-year reunion, which will be held on Saturday, September 20 at the Vintage Restaurant in Big Bear Lake. Cost for the reunion dinner and entertainment is $35, and RSVPs can be made to Kim Stock Derichsweiler at 949/514-0044 or via email at Kimmers80@yahoo.com.

Basketball Stars Expected at Masonic Lodge's Pre-Parade Breakfast; Bevwood Camp at BBHS August 11
This Sunday's Masonic Lodge all-you-can-eat breakfast, just down Summit Boulevard from the launch of the Old Miners' Days Parade, will include some special guests: the pro basketball all-stars in town to promote the Bevwood Fun Camp, which will be offered at Big Bear High School August 11-13 for 4 to17-year-olds. Basketball stars expected at the Sunday morning breakfast, which is offered from 7:30 to 11am, include “Still Bill” Smith, Ron “Teddy Bear” Knight and Tommy “Tank” Davis (of the Harlem Globetrotters), Darwin Cook (of the New Jersey Nets), Robert Smith (of the San Antonio Spurs), Sam Williams (of the Golden State Warriors) and Flynn Robertson (of the L.A. Lakers). Cost for Sunday morning's breakfast, which is also offered on Saturday, is $8 for adults and $3 for children 12 and under. In addition to their appearance at Sunday's breakfast and in the Old Miners' Parade, the basketball all-stars are also scheduled to participate in a pro-am basketball game at BBHS on Saturday, August 16 at 5pm. Bevwood CEO Still Bill and his team will take on the high school faculty and local sponsors, with proceeds to benefit BBHS athletics. For more information on the Bevwood Fun Camp (which is offered at $95 per camper), call Bill Smith at 310/739-1964 or email bevwoodstars11@hotmail.com.


No job--or truck--is too big for Explorer Scouts Tyler Garland, Chelsey Swantek,
Sarah Button and Oscar Holm, who will be conducting a fundraising car wash this
Saturday and next, to pay for their new uniforms.

Big Bear Sheriff's Station's New Explorer Scouts Ready for First Competition; Car Wash This Saturday
The Big Bear Sheriff's Station has a new group of six young people enrolled in the Explorer Scout program, and they are already at work to raise funds to put toward uniforms, fees and equipment for competitions with other scout posts in the County's Explorer Scout program. Last week, the group of 14 to 21-year-olds held their first fundraising car wash, and two more are scheduled in anticipation of the scouts' first competition on August 16. During the competition, posts are evaulated on physical agility, knowledge of codes and procedures, felony traffic stops, clearing buildings and, most importantly, per Tiffany Swantek with the Big Bear Sheriff's Station, teamwork. Those who wish to contribute to their effort can stop by the Sheriff's station at 477 Summit Boulevard tomorrow, and again on Saturday, August 9, for a car wash at a suggested donation of $10. Though this year's group of Explorer Scouts was sworn in on July 4, others are welcome to join the program before they head to the academy. To participate in the program, students between the ages of 14 and 21 must maintain a C average in school, and successfully complete an oral interview and background check. The Explorer Scout program teaches law enforcement fundamentals, instills confidence, and emphasizes teamwork. For more information on the program, contact the Big Bear Sheriff's Station at 866-0100.

The Arts Council Is Accepting Student Artwork for Display at Art on the Lake, to Be Held August 16-17
The Arts Council of Big Bear Valley sponsors Art on the Lake on August 16 and 17 and, in preparation for the event, the Council is accepting entries of original student artwork for display. Four student categories will be presented, featuring artwork from those in kindergarten through 12th grade, and first, second and third place prizes will also be awarded. Student artwork submissions must be received by Saturday, August 9 at the Arts Council Gallery, which is located on Village Drive in Big Bear Lake. The Gallery, which includes the work of local artists, is open from 11am to 5pm, Thursday through Monday. For more information on The Arts Council of Big Bear Valley or Arts on the Lake, call 878-4161.


Eleven bands performed at the Discovery Center's full-day Bluegrass, Bluejeans and Beyond
event last weekend. Here, the Black Irish Bluegrass Band does a song in honor of Smokey Bear,
who turns 64 next week, on August 9.

Thursday, July 31, 2008

Damage to Gas Line This Morning Results in Partial Closure of Shay Road; All Repairs Have Been Made
Earlier today, Big Bear City Fire Department responded to reports of a possible gas leak on Shay Road, between Barranca and Palomino, at the Valley's east end. An outside contractor had been at work on the installation of the new Well #8 blendline for the Community Services District when an excavator nicked a gas line along Shay Road just before noon. Crews from Southwest Gas responded to the incident, which did result in a partial closure of Shay Road. Just after 1pm, the road became fully accessible as the repairs were completed by Southwest Gas. The nick in the gas line did not result in any injuries or prompt any evacuations, per an official with Southwest Gas, and all repairs have been made.

59th Annual Old Miners' Day Parade on Sunday at 12:30pm; Big Bear Boulevard Closed to Traffic at 11am
The 59th annual Old Miners' Day Parade will roll down Big Bear Boulevard on Sunday, starting at Summit Boulevard at 12:30pm and proceeding west to Bonanza Trail in the Village. This year's parade is expected to have over 60 floats and entries, including the Twentynine Palms U.S. Marine Corps Band, Miss Clementine, a flyover by U.S. Navy F16 Vipers, an appearance by Po (star of the animated Dreamworks film “Kung Fu Panda”), and three sets of grand marshalls. This year's honorees as the Old Miners' Parade grand marshalls are the parents of Big Bear's three soldiers who lost their lives in Iraq: Rex and Beverly Kenyon, Rick and Laura Stephens, and Joe and Laura Landaker. As with years past, the review stand for the parade will be set up in front of Veterans Park, though viewing of the parade is available anywhere along Big Bear Boulevard, from Summit to Bonanza. The Boulevard will be closed to traffic as of 11am on Sunday to accommodate the parade, which will be followed by the Taste of Big Bear event in the Bartlett parking lot in the Village.

School Resumes on Monday, August 4 for BVUSD; No Late Start Days at BBHS This School Year
School resumes for students of Bear Valley Unified School District on Monday, August 4 and, per Superintendent Carole Ferraud, “All doors will be open for returning students, as well as new students.” Registration paperwork for kindergarten students needs to be completed by tomorrow for parents who have not yet done so, and details are available at the school district offices on Moonridge Road, as well as at each of the three elementary schools. This year's BVUSD calendar has been revised and, going forward, the school district will no longer implement Late Start days at Big Bear High School. The first calendared day off for students and staff is Monday, September 1, in observance of Labor Day. To follow is contact information for each school: Baldwin Lane Elementary School, contact Sue Nunes at 585-7766; Big Bear Elementary School, contact Laura Bulrice at 866-4638; for North Shore Elementary School, contact Cyndi Bauer at 866-7501; for Big Bear Middle School, contact Grace Stapko at 866-4634; for Big Bear High School, contact Sue Merritt at 585-6892; for Chautauqua High School or Independent Study Program, contact Kathleen Kuck at 585-2521; for the BVUSD District Office, 866-4631.

Mayor Herrick May Represent Big Bear Lake at Beijing Olympics for Ryan Hall's Marathon Race
As prompted by community members' suggestion, Mayor Rick Herrick may be traveling to Beijing, China on behalf of the City of Big Bear Lake, to cheer on Ryan Hall during the Olympic marathon on August 24. During Council's meeting earlier this week, Event Resource Office Director Rick Bates was among those furthering the suggestion. On behalf of the ERO and the Lighthouse Project, Bates said, “It seems to me that the City of Big Bear Lake would be well served by sending an official emissary to Beijing. This could be a great opportunity to network and spotlight Big Bear and its merits as a high-altitude training mecca. Big Bear's profile is gaining in the athletic community, and we need to keep pushing this along. It also would be a major show of support to the greatest athlete ever to come out of Big Bear.” Councilmember Darrel Mulvihill was quick to support the idea, and offered to make a personal contribution to Mayor Herrick's travel, if funding were approved. Herrick determined that his Council travel budget would cover the cost, though would preclude him from attendance at other functions, such as additional conferences, training or travel on behalf of the City. Herrick told his fellow Council members and City Manager Jeff Mathieu, “The objective is to actually carry a banner, and hold it up at the 18th mile, because that's where runners generally hit the wall.” After discussion, Mathieu said, “We have the general sentiment of the Council, to enable [this], so we will have a staff report to vote on in August.”

Recovery Efforts Continue Today for Vehicle and Driver Found 800' Over Highway 18 Near Crestline
Recovery efforts continue this morning for a vehicle found approximately 800 feet over the side of Highway 18 at Red Rock Wall, north of Lake Gregory Drive in the Crestline/Lake Gregory area. Yesterday at about 4pm, a Twin Peaks Sheriff's deputy located a license plate just below a damaged guardrail. With the assistance of a California Highway Patrol officer, the license plate was identified as that of a 2008 Volvo, last seen driven by a missing person from Manhattan Beach. As the vehicle was not visible from the turnout, a San Bernardino County Sheriff''s Department helicopter was dispatched to locate the vehicle, which was found in very steep terrain. A paramedic was lowered to the vehicle, at which time he pronounced a solo female occupant deceased. Given the terrain and instability of the vehicle, as well as limited daylight, the occupant was not recovered and the identity of the driver has not yet been confirmed. CHP personnel secured the scene overnight until recovery operations could continue this morning. Update as of 2:30pm: Emergency services crews today recovered the body of the woman whose car had dropped 800' feet over the side of Highway 18, near Red Rock Wall in the Crestline area. It was yesterday afternoon when a Sheriff's Deputy from Twin Peaks first spotted a license plate near a damaged guardrail, which prompted two days of rescue efforts, given the steep terrain where the 2008 Volvo had landed on the mountainside. Yesterday, a paramedic had been lowered to the crash site via helicotper, and pronounced the solo female occupant in the vehicle as deceased, before nightfall. As of this morning, recovery efforts continued and, as of mid-day, the body was retrieved via helicopter. Since that time, Officer Gary Fernandez with the California Highway Patrol says that the woman has been identified as 34-year-old Molly Kate Wolfgang, who had been reported as missing from Manhattan Beach on Tuesday night. Fernandez tells KBHR, “The cause of the collision has not yet been determined, and the investigation is ongoing. It went from a missing person report to a fatal collision, so this is not your average collision.” Retrieval of Wolfgang's vehicle, from where it remains 800' over the side of Highway 18, is planned for tomorrow.


Four locals took the Move a Million Miles for Ryan Hall effort to new heights, when they climbed
Africa's Mt. Kiliminjaro and then logged their miles in support of local Olympian Ryan Hall. Climbers
Tim Wood, Ron Peavy, Tyler Wood and Dan Wood reached the 19,341' summit, which made a
substantial contribution to the Million Miles campaign, which has achieved over 850,000 miles!
The hope is to have a million miles logged by Hall's August 24 race date--or by the
Community Send-Off for Hall at BBMS next Monday, August 4.

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

Community Services District Adjourns Monday Meeting to Allow for Participation in Ryan Hall Event
The Board of Directors of the Big Bear City Community Services District has adjourned their regular meeting, scheduled for Monday evening, August 4, to their meeting scheduled for August 18. Per a statement issued by CSD's General Manager Mike Mayer, “This action was taken in order to provide our constituents and employees the opportunity to send Ryan Hall off to the Olympic Games with a huge show of support from our community. Our agency lends its support to the efforts of the Lighthouse Project, the Bear Valley Unified School District, the Big Bear Valley Event Resource Office, the Big Bear Lake Resort Association and the City of Big Bear Lake toward making the Community Send-Off for Ryan Hall a great success.” The August 4 event for Hall takes place at Minder Field at Big Bear Middle School. Gates open at 4:30pm next Monday, and the event, which will include a victory lap 'round the field by Hall and local students, begins at 5:30pm. As parking is limited at BBMS, carpools are encouraged to the free event. (More event details are posted in our story of July 28, below.)


Big Bear's first California Multisport, a 100% Earth-friendly event, drew competitors from Big
Bear to Brazil. Eric Sullivan (second from left, in grey shirt) took first in the 25-mile competition
in 3:05:10. For more on the race, see our story posted on July 29.

Longtime Valley Resident Mac McAlister Passes Away Tuesday, in His Family Home on McAlister Road
Longtime Big Bear Lake resident James “Mac” McAlister died in his family home on McAlister Road yesterday afternoon, though the San Bernardino County Coroner's Department has not yet released the cause of death. McAlister, who had jokingly referred to himself as one of the Valley's “historical relics” during a Big Bear Valley Historical Society presentation in 2006 had attended a Kiwanis luncheon with his daughter Kaysie yesterday, prior to his passing, according to friend Neal Hertzmann, who said of Mac, “I loved the guy. I saw him at church all the time, and he was always a kick.” McAlister, who turned 84 in May and had subsequently suffered a stroke in June which resulted in partial paralysis, lived on the fox farm his parents built in the '20s. As McAlister has said, “My folks dragged me up here at the age of four in 1928 with a truckload of foxes.” He went on to be one of six graduates from Big Bear High School (which was then in cabins at the site of the current BBMS) in 1942, before attending UCLA and joining the U.S. Navy, for whom he piloted airplanes during World War II. After 26 years in Hawaii with wife Ann, McAlister returned to Big Bear and, per good friend Don Ekberg, had “been back for 35 years.” McAlister had been a member of the Kiwanis Club, a docent at the Big Bear Historical Museum, and sang in the church choir. He is survived by daughters Kaysie, Connie and Kim, who are planning a burial service in Riverside. Much loved by this community, McAlister said, “It was just a wonderful experience growing up in Big Bear.”

Given Tuesday's Earthquake, County's Office of Emergency Services Urges Disaster Preparedness
In light of yesterday's 5.4 magnitude earthquake in Southern California, the San Bernardino County Office of Emergency Services reminds County residents to prepare for unexpected disaster. The Diamond-Bar area quake on Tuesday morning, and countless aftershocks, did not result in any damage to the Big Bear area, and the Municipal Water District confirms that no damage was done to the Big Bear Dam. The County's OES says that public safety personnel are ready to respond at the first sign of danger, as they did yesterday. Still, per Megan Blaney of the OES, “After Tuesday's earthquake, the possibility exisits for more afershocks, as does a lesser possibility that Tuesday's temblor is a foreshock for a larger earthquake. Residents should be prepared to provide for themselves and their families for at least three days.” The following precautions are also recommended: identify potential hazards in your home, and begin to fix them; create a disaster preparedness plan; prepare disaster supply kits; and, identify your building's potential weaknesses and begin to fix them. During an earthquake, OES advises to drop, cover and hold on. After the earthquake, check for injuries and damage. The County's Family Disaster Plan is available online at sbcfire.org/oes.

Big Bear Lake City Council to File Protest in Response to Proposed 22.7% Electricity Rate Increase
The Big Bear Lake City Council this week held a discussion on the proposed 22.7 percent rate increase for Valley electric service, as filed by Golden State Water Company, parent of Bear Valley Electric Service, with the California Public Utilities Commission on June 27. Bear Valley Electric Service had opted to hold their formal presentation before Council until August, once the rate allocation had been filed (which it will be by July's end), though the utility's Administrative Manager Sandra Gray and Operations Manager Ken Markling were present at Monday's Council meeting, so did take to the podium to address questions from Council and City Manager Jeff Mathieu. Markling told Council, “We have not had a base rate increase since 1997. Bear Valley Electric has proposed an unprecedented phased-in approach, spurred on by our community action meeting.” This meeting took place in early May and though the media was not noticed of the meeting, BVES says that Council members were contacted via email. Of the proposed rate increase, said to increase BVES revenue by $6.8 million so that operational costs do not exceed revenue, Gray noted, “We hope to soften the impact to rate payers by phasing it in over four years.” Gray and Markling explained that the increase would also allow for an energy efficiency program that would extend beyond low-income households, and that increased revenue to the utility would also allow for monthly billing, the acceleration of automated meter reading (and improved accuracy), and the increase in the baseline allowance, from 270 to 320 kilowatt hours. Despite these measures, the City's CEO Kathleen Smith said that the 22.7 percent is “a substantial increase for our community.” Councilmembers concurred, though Mayor Rick Herrick excused himself from the agenda item, as Bear Valley Electric advertises on this radio station, which he owns. Remaining Councilmembers Liz Harris, Bill Jahn, Darrel Mulvihill and Michael Karp did follow City staff's recommendation, and unanimously voted to file a protest to the rate increase by the deadline, which Gray says is August 29. During Council's intermission, Markling of Bear Valley Electric told KBHR, “We don't expect people to like it, but we hope they'll understand it and see it is reasonable.” Though the PUC decision on Bear Valley Electric's rate increase is not scheduled until June 29, 2009, the comment filing period expires August 29, 2008. For consumers wishing to issue comments, the California Public Utilities Commission's Public Advisor may be contacted at 505 Van Ness Avenue, Room 2103, San Francisco, CA 94102; emailed at public.advisor@cpuc.ca.gov; or called at 866/849-8390 or 415/703-2074.

Big Bear Marathon Coming September 6; Locals Sign-Up Day This Sunday, During Old Miners' Event
The inaugural Big Bear Marathon is just over a month away, and event organizer Darrel Courtney of HBT Events is seeking athletes and volunteers to participate in the big day, on Saturday, September 6. This Sunday, HBT Events will host a locals sign-up day for the marathon, in conjunction with the Old Miners' Day festivities. At the Taste of Big Bear event, which takes place in the Bartlett parking lot in the Village following the Old Miners' Parade on Sunday afternoon, Valley locals will be able to sign up for the September 6 marathon—as well as the half-marathon, 5K and bike tour—at discounted rates. Local volunteers are also being sought to participate in the Big Bear Marathon, be it at the start or finish line, water aid stations, or with registration or traffic control on the day of the event. So, whether you plan to run in the Big Bear Marathon, or just want to participate from the sidelines, be sure to visit the HBT Events booth at this Sunday afternoon's Taste of Big Bear event in the Village, following the parade. More information is also available at hbtevents.com, or by calling volunteer coordinator Cheryl Zwarkoski at 760/508-5736.

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

U.S. Forest Service Re-Opens Grays Peak Trail, Following Fire-Prompted Hazardous Tree Removal
As of this week, the U.S. Forest Service has re-opened Grays Peak Trail, located just west of Fawnskin on the North Shore, since its closure resulting from the wildfires of last fall. A special crew from Oregon worked on the restoration of Grays Peak Trail to remove the biggest of the big trees, according to Paul Bennett, the Forest Service's Mountaintop Recreation Officer. Bennett says, “Grays Peak is one of our more popular hiking and mountain bike trails in Big Bear. Trail crews ultimately removed over 300 hazard trees along the trail.” Crews from within the San Bernardino National Forest are continuing with work in the burn areas of the Butler #2 and Slide Fires, with a full-scale fuels reduction project set to begin this fall. In the meantime, other areas are scheduled to be re-opened to the public. As Bennett tells KBHR, “We're probably several days aways away from the re-opening of the Pacific Crest Trail.” Visitors to the Grays Peak Trailhead will need to display an Adventure Pass, available at the Big Bear Discovery Center, if parking at the recreation area.

Diamond Bar-Area Earthquake of 5.4 Magnitude Shakes the Big Bear Valley This Morning; Dam Is OK
Yes, that was an earthquake you felt at 11:42am today. Per the U.S. Geological Survey, preliminary reports indicate that the quake was of a 5.8 magnitude, centered four miles southeast of Diamond Bar (which is off the 57 and 60 freeways). The 5.8 quake registered a depth of 12 kilometers. By noon, twelve aftershocks had been reported, with three of those registering a 3.8 magnitude. Update: Since this morning's earthquake was first reported, the U.S. Geological Survey has downgraded the 11:42am quake from a 5.8 to a 5.4 magnitude. The Diamond Bar-area tremor has resulted in at least 35 aftershocks in the first two hours since the 5.4 magnitude quake rattled Southern California just before noon. Since the first indication of the earthquake here in the Big Bear area, staff at the Big Bear Municipal Water District did an inspection of the Big Bear Dam, which is standard procedure, Lake Manager Mike Stephenson tells KBHR, for any quake either local or of a magnitude of 1 or more. Says Stephenson, “We immediately do a thorough inspection once there's an earthquake. The protocol is to first check the dam visually, and then we inspect the flow downstream to make sure we don't have any leaks or cracks.” Today's inspections indicate that the Big Bear Dam remains strong and undamaged.

City Council Approves November Ballot Measure to Increase Big Bear Lake TOT by 2% Over Two Years
A second Public Hearing on the proposed two percent Transient Occupany Tax increase for Big Bear Lake lodging facilities, including private home rentals, was conducted during last night's City Council meeting. At issue was whether a ballot measure for the November 2008 election would increase the hotel tax by two percent as of January 1, 2009, or whether the increase, if approved by Big Bear Lake voters, should be phased in over two years, with a one percent increase (bringing it to seven percent) as of 2009, and ultimately an eight percent TOT as of 2010. City Manager Jeff Mathieu said of the potential ballot measure, “We've worked very hard to have very easy-to-understand language for the voters.” During the Public Hearing, a few business owners, including two lodge owners, addressed Council, including Charlie Brewster, who said, “We're trying to hold on to a tourist-based business. If we're going to raise the TOT, let's spend it on marketing.” The City-generated ballot measure also includes an advisory vote, which will allow voters to determine if “the City should solely allocate the additional revenue to rebuild and renovate infrastructure, streets, parks, trails, lake access points and other public facilities, and prohibit the additional revenue from being used for general City operations.” Per Mayor Rick Herrick, TOT funds used in this way would serve as a marketing tool for the City, as the “packaging” of our community would be enhanced. Councilmember Liz Harris explained, “We have more needs, to support the tourist community. Our needs are greater than our budget, but we live within our budget because we have to.” The additional revenue of increased TOT (two percent would translate to roughly $850,000 annually) would provide for the City's capital improvements. Mayor Pro Tem Bill Jahn said he would support the ballot measure only if it ran in the phased-in approach, and told those concerned about PHRs going underground as a result of increased TOT that code compliance calls can and should be made to 866-CODE. All told, the Council unanimously agreed to submit the phased-in TOT ballot measure to the Registrar of Voters and, in a separate item, took the official step to assure that the proposed ballot measure for a private home rental ordinance be rescinded from the election (as ruled in a Superior Court decision on July 11).


Ted Devito finishes the run ahead of the pack in Sunday's multisport; Cathleen Calkins, Beth Dressel and Tametha Debuque celebrate their team victory; and top finishers Devito, Eric Sullivan and Marcelo Magnanini take to the podium to collect their prize money.

Racers from Big Bear to Brazil Compete in First Local Multisport Competition; Devitos Take Second
Big Bear's first multisport competition—described by one competitior as “triathlon meets dirt”—launched from the Discovery Center on Sunday morning, and drew over 60 participants, from Big Bear to Brazil. The overall winner in the 25-mile course was Eric Sullivan of Colorado with a time of three hours and five minutes. Local Ted Devito (dubbed the “Fastest Bear in the Bear” in February's snowshoe event) took second place honors, and third went to Marcelo Magnanini of Brazil. The women's division top finisher, Manu Villaseca, in the multisport was also from Brazil; second went to Big Bear's own Heather Devito, and third was won by Tiffany Meyers of Redondo Beach. The fun surprise of the day was that the women's team of locals Cathleen Calkins and Tametha Debuque, with eleventh-hour contestant Beth Dressel of Newport Beach, took the overall title in the multisport's team relay competition. Other notable contenders from Big Bear who finished in the top 12 include Grayson McNeill and Eric Bulrice. The next 100% Earth-friendly California Multisport race is planned for September 28 in San Luis Obispo, with another planned for our area next year. (For more on multisport, see our posting of July 25.)

Hummingbird Project Offers Free School Supplies to BVUSD Students of Low-Income Families
As school for Bear Valley Unified students begins next Monday, August 4, the Hummingbird Project is this week making available school supplies for children of low-to-moderate income families. School supplies being distributed by the non-profit Hummingbird Project include backpacks, pencils, pens and binders. In order to qualify for school supplies, students must live within the Big Bear Valley and attend BVUSD schools, in addition to the low-to-moderate income qualifier. Applications are being processed in the order received at the Hummingbird Thrift Store, which is located at 400 West Big Bear Boulevard in Big Bear City. For more information, call Elaine Tennity at 584-8642.

Big Bear Lake Fire Offers Free Defensible Space Workshop on Thursday; Certification to Attendees
The Big Bear Lake Fire Department hosts their third and final Defensible Space Workshop this Thursday, July 31 at 4pm. Those who are involved in creating defensible space, such as landscapers and property managers, are encouraged to attend the free, two-hour workshop, to be held at the fire department at 41090 Big Bear Boulevard in Big Bear Lake. Attendees will be instructed how to assess a property for wildfire safety, from a structure's foundation to rooftop. Those who attend the free defensible space workshop on Thursday will also receive certification in creating defensible space. For additional information, contact the Big Bear Lake Fire Department at 866-7566.

Monday, July 28, 2008

Federal, State Officials Discover Nearly 20,000 Marijuana Plants Within San Bernardino National Forest
Nearly 20,000 marijuana plants were seized within the San Bernardino National Forest by federal, state and local-area law enforcement agents within the last week. Per a statement issued by the U.S. Forest Service, the estimated street value of the 19,951 marijuana plants from three areas within the San Bernardino National Forest is said to be more than $60 million. Officers from the U.S. Forest Service, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Riverside County Sheriff's Department and the California Department of Justice Campaign Against Marijuana Planting took part in the operation, in which officers found several campsites in the canyons north of Idyllwild, as well as extensive irrigation systems, fertilizer, trash, propane tanks and other items in the marijuana plots. Large areas of native shrubs and trees were cut down to make room for the plants. The confiscated marijuana was carried via helicopters to trucks, then transported for disposal. No arrests have yet been made, and the investigation into the marijuana found on Forest Service land will continue.

Two Weeks Remain for Candidate Filing for Local Seats; Registrar Posts 17 Candidates for Local Offices
There are two weeks left to file candidate papers for those interested in running for local office in the November 2008 election. Per the San Bernardino County Registrar of Voters office, the following have filed papers to run for office within Big Bear Valley: for the Bear Valley Unified School District, Sharon Congdon, David Foltz, and Jim “Mac” McGowan; for the Big Bear Airport District, Ken Dally, Julia Smith, incumbent Gary Steube, and Jack Williams; for the Big Bear City Community Services District, Barbara Beck, Lance George Fowler, Beverly Grabe, Richard Nelson, and incumbent Rick Ollila; for the Bear Valley Community Healthcare District, Michael Hartstein, Edward Kibbey, and Randy Vanos; for the Big Bear Municipal Water District, incumbent John Eminger; and, per the Big Bear Lake City Clerk, incumbent Liz Harris has filed papers for the City Council of Big Bear Lake. Filing papers for local offices must be received by the Registrar of Voters office by Friday, August 8 at 5pm. The Registrar's office can be contacted at 387-8300.


Fawnskin's Honorary Mayor Gene Cyr took home the trophy for Best Overall Float in the Doo Dah.

Mayor Gene Cyr, "Loco Locals" and Fawnskin Market Take Top Honors in Saturday's Doo Dah Parade
This year's Doo Dah Parade featured all the wackiness and small town entertainment for which the Fawnskin parade is known: from Captain's John and the Chamber Pots float to the Tutti Frutti Chambermaids to John Eminger pulling a wagon full of Meals on Wheels, which toppled over in front of the Fawn Lodge, parade judges had over 40 entries to review. Fawnskin locals judged from the front porch of the Moose Lodge, and Diana Guerrero, Bill Hazewinkel and Bob Drake named Honorary Fawnskin Mayor Gene Cyr's float the Best Overall, the Fawnskin Market entry won Best Children's, and Best Adult trophy went to the “Loco Locals” for their spoof on Big Bear Choppers. The Saturday morning event also featured the as-expected water fight between the Lions Club and the Moose Lodge, and the unexpected—the El Camino for parade grand marshalls, local band Damn Good Question, sputtered out just before the Doo Dah, so Dave, Robby, Josh and Brownie walked the route, throwing candy to the crowd along North Shore Drive, before meeting up with the other celebrities of the day, Harlem Globetrotters (on behalf of the upcoming Bevwood Basketball Camp), at the Moose Lodge. (For larger versions or copies of any of the photos below, just use your mouse to right click on them. Captions are listed below.)





Just some of the highlights from the Doo Dah Parade: (top row includes) Brownie, Robby, Josh and Dave of Damn Good Question; (second row) the Flatlanders, award-winners "Big Bear Choppers", and Denis Thomas of the Discovery Center; (third row) entries from the North Shore Improvement Agency, Fawnskin Market and the Chambermaids; and (bottom row) the Moose Lodge, Habitat for Humanity's Stud-Finders, and judges Diana Guerrero, Bob Drake and Bill Hazewinkel.

City Council to Address TOT Ballot Measures, Proposed Electric Rate Increase and Roof Ordinance Today
Two Public Hearing Items are agendized for this evening's Big Bear Lake City Council meeting, to be held in Hofert Hall at 6:30pm. The first Public Hearing will address the possible adoption of one of two Transient Occupancy Tax ballot measures. At Council's meeting of July 14, first readings were introduced for the potential ballot measures—one would propose a two percent increase (to the current six percent TOT) as of January 1, 2009; the second would phase in the two percent increase over two years. This evening's decision will dictate which ballot measure, if either, will be submitted to the Registrar of Voters for the November election. The second Public Hearing Item references Council consideration of an amendment to the Wood Shake Shingle Roof Replacement Ordinance, which would remove the requirement of roof replacement as a point-of-sale condition for buildings within the City. This evening's meeting will also include Council consideration of discussing opposition to Bear Valley Electric's proposed rate increase. Per Bear Valley Electric Service's Administrative Manager Sandra Gray, the utility agency does not plan to present at this Council meeting, but will do so once the proposed new rate allocation is filed.

Community Send-Off for Olympian Ryan Hall a Week from Today; MARTA Trolley Available to BBMS
Time to start making those banners and planning your carpool as, a week from today, the community send-off for Olympian Ryan Hall takes place on Minder Field at Big Bear Middle School. Program director Beth Gardner of the Lighthouse Project says, “We'd love to get some community spirit and bonding through this event. It's for us, and it's for Ryan.” Gates will open at 4:30pm for the big event and, as parking is limited at BBMS, carpools are encouraged, though MARTA will offer $1 trolley services on the day of the event, with pickups scheduled at the Bartlett parking lot in the Village at 4pm, as well as a pickup from the Vons parking lot at 4:20pm. Event organizers the Lighthouse Project, the Event Resource Office, Bear Valley Unified School District, the City of Big Bear Lake and the Resort Association encourage signs and banners to not only celebrate Hall, but Big Bear's children, who will get to take a victory lap around the track with Hall to celebrate their first day back to school and their miles logged on behalf of the Move A Million Miles for Ryan Hall campaign which, to date, has achieved over 800,000 miles! The one-hour event for Olympic marathon runner Hall will begin at 5:30pm on August 4. Major media coverage is expected, so the hope is to spotlight not only Hall, but our community as well, so clubs and groups are encouraged to wear uniforms to the free event—attendees can also bring blankets to sit on the field, and don't forget the Run Ryan Run hats!

Free Food Distribution and Clothes Offered to Seniors, Low-Income Families at Community Church at Noon
Free food distribution will be offered to seniors, those with disabilities and low-income families through the San Bernardino County Food Bank this afternoon. From 12:30 to 2pm, food distribution and free clothes will be offered at Community Church by the Lake at 40946 Big Bear Boulevard at Knickerbocker Road.

Friday, July 25, 2008


The view on the descent on one of the bike trails in Moonridge, between the two ski resorts.

BBARWA Board Seeks Legal Advice Before Revisions to Board Room Rental Policy Are Adopted
The Big Bear Area Regional Wastewater Agency held their monthly meeting on Wednesday, at which time the Governing Board addressed their Board Room rental policy. The ad hoc Facilities Use Committee of John Day and Rick Herrick gave a quick report on the 2005 rental policy before the Board opted to hold on a decision until their next meeting on August 27. In the meantime, BBARWA's attorneys will be consulted to provide legal guidelines on future rental policies for the Board to adopt. Also during the July 23 meeting, the first reading of the new fee schedule for the disposal of waste delivered to the plant was presented; the second reading, at which time the ordinance may be finalized and adopted, will take place on August 27. The new fee schedule would affect those who deliver waste, via truck, to the BBARWA plant, thereby including households on holding or septic tanks.

Eleven Bands in Full-Day Bluegrass, Bluejeans and Beyond Event at the Discovery Center on Saturday
The Big Bear Discovery Center celebrates their 10th anniversary with the full-day Bluegrass, Bluejeans and Beyond event tomorrow, July 26. Eleven bands will take to the outdoor amphitheater stage starting at 10am, and entertainment includes bluegrass bands including the Ramblin' Rangers of the U.S. Forest Service Mountaintop Ranger District and local favorites such as the Holcomb Valley Boys accompanied by the Joyful Noise Clogging Company. Ticket prices range from $10 for a day pass to a full event ticket for $35 and, the Discovery Center's Denis Thomas tells KBHR, “Tickets can be purchased at the Discovery Center, even the day of the event. This year's wristband passes allow you to come and go all day long, so you can enjoy foot-stomping bluegrass and country music all day, from 10 in the morning until 10 at night—and there's lots of kids' events all day long also included in the price, though kids 12 and under are free.” For more information on the Bluegrass, Bluejeans and Beyond event on the North Shore, you can visit the DC's website at bigbeardiscoverycenter.com.

MWD's Mitigation Measures Have Been Effective; Still No Quagga Mussel Contamination of Lake
Though the invasive Quagga Mussel still presents a threat to the ecosystem of Big Bear Lake, mitigation measures implemented by the Municipal Water District have thus far been effective as, per Lake Manager Mike Stephenson, the Quagga Mussel has not yet infected the lake. “We've spent over $100,000, so far, in Quagga control efforts,” Stephenson tells KBHR, “and, as of last week, we've done over 150 free boat decontaminations.” This effort, to assure that each boat and vessel is clean, drained and dry before launching into Big Bear Lake, has worked to keep the lake Quagga-free. Meanwhile, the MWD continues to inspect the lake and implement additional means of mitigation. Adds Stephenson, “We have six [inspection] stations and we check them every 30 days, and we are at zero. Also, we'll be filtering larvae through screens to check for Quagga Mussels in another way. This would give us early detection, like a month earlier, before the Quagga Mussel detaches and starts to grow.” To do your part, you can make sure that your boat, kayak, even float tubes, are clean, drained and dry before entering the lake—if unsure, free Quagga Mussel decontamination, using a high-pressure hot water wash, is available at either of the public boat launch ramps on the North Shore.


Los Vaqueros de las Montañas Riding Club, which was formed in 1946 and now includes 80+ families
and individuals, enjoyed having Holcomb Valley all to themselves on a post-rain weekend ride. For more
on the local group's gymkhanas, horse clinics and rides, visit their website at LosVaquerosRidingClub.com.

Wm. Sumrall Found Alive, Sitting in His Car, in Muscoy; 74-Year-Old Had Been Missing Since Wednesday
William Sumrall, the 74-year-old man visiting Big Bear with his wife who had been missing since Wednesday evening when he left their Moonridge cabin in his Lexus SUV, has been found, per the Big Bear Sheriff's Station. Shortly before 2am Friday morning, Mr. Sumrall was found sitting in his vehicle at the intersection of June Street and N. Acapulco Avenue in Muscoy, roughly 50 miles away. Per the Sheriff's Station report issued this morning, Mr. Sumrall was disoriented and confused at the time he was found by deputies of the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department. Mr. Sumrall was picked up by family members and taken to Community Hospital of San Bernardino for a checkup.

Triathlon Meets Adventure Racing in Sunday's California Multisport Competition, Launching from the DC
This Sunday at 10am, both amateur and professional athletes will take to the hills—and the lake—in a California Multisport competition that will include individuals and relay teams mountain biking, trail running and lake paddling. Event organizer Paul Romero, who is coordinating the event with the San Bernardino National Forest Association, says, “Come join the fun! California Multisport is a 3-5 hour multisport event for novice and expert athletes alike. The course is designed so that a first-timer can make it to the finish line, and the expert still feels challenged. We've taken the best of triathlon and adventure racing and turned it into a fun mix called multisport, and we've brought the event to Big Bear.” The July 27 event launches from the Big Bear Discovery Center and will include a five-mile paddle on Big Bear Lake, six miles of running on fire roads and single track, and 14 miles of mountain biking on double track and fire roads. Sarah Miggins of the SBNFA tells KBHR that the event will be fun to watch for those who aren't up for the competition. “It's our first annual,” Miggins says, “and it's going to be a lot of fun. And if you miss it this year, we'll have it again next year.” For more information, or to register for the multisport competition, log on to calmultisport.com.

Thursday, July 24, 2008


William Sumrall's granddaughter tells KBHR, "We love our grandpa dearly."
Please call the Big Bear Sheriff's Station at 866-0100 if you have seen him.

Missing Person: Big Bear Visitor William Sumrall, Age 74, Last Seen in His Lexus SUV on Wednesday
The Big Bear Sheriff's Station is asking for the community's help in locating a missing person, as reported by his wife last night. At about 5pm on Wednesday, 74-year-old William Sumrall left the cabin he and his wife are renting in Moonridge. Sumrall, a Caucasian male with mild diabetes (and occasional disorientation) was in his greyish green 2002 Lexus SUV, with California license plate number 4XDL349. Mr. Sumrall is 5'10” tall and 130 pounds with black/grey hair and blue eyes, wears glasses and walks with a cane. He was last seen wearing a white t-shirt with a blue collar, blue jeans and white tennis shoes. If you have seen Mr. Sumrall or his vehicle, please call the Big Bear Sheriff's Station at 866-0100.

College Classes in Big Bear Resume August 19; San Bernardino Valley College Registration Opens Today
Open registration begins today for college classes to be offered at Big Bear High School through San Bernardino Valley College. Three and four-unit courses, which begin August 19, are offered on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings and the Fall 2008 program includes classes in art, American Sign Language, biology, child development, geography, history, music, real estate, Spanish, speech and theater arts, and a wide range of online classes are also available, at a cost of $20 per unit. Per SBVC Director Helena Johnson, “No high school diploma is required for most classes, though higher level classes do require assessment.” Registration for San Bernardino Valley College classes, offered in Big Bear, is available online at Valleycollege.edu/department/administrative/big_bear_program or by calling 909/888-1996.

Fawnskin Offers Chamber Luau This Evening, and Doo Dah Parade, Festival and Dog Show on Saturday
The Doo Dah Parade rolls through downtown Fawnskin on the North Shore at 10am Saturday morning, and is immediately followed by the Fawnskin Festival (from 11am to 6pm), to be held behind the Moose Lodge at Don Conroy Memorial Park. The Festival includes an apple pie contest, kids games and races, a horseshoe competition, and the seventh annual Precious Pet Contest. The (almost) all-breed dog show (no pitbulls) begins at 1pm, and registration will be available on Saturday morning, for an entry fee of $5, with proceeds to go toward trophies for the top dogs. Saturday's festival is just one of the North Shore events being coordinated by the Fawnskin Chamber of Commerce—this evening at 6pm, they host a free luau at Captain John's Marina. All are invited to join the Fawnskin Chamber for teriyaki burgers along the lake, and find out more about the happenings on the little community on the North Shore. For more information on these events, or First Fridays in Fawnskin, call Chamber President Jim Dooley at 866-3414, or visit online at FawnskinChamber.com.

Members of the Community Emergency Response Team test their newly donated whistles at
their first CERT family picnic on Sunday.

Community Emergency Response Team Is 120 Members Strong, and Welcomes More Valley Participation
Since 1998, over 200 Valley residents have become certified in the Community Emergency Response Team courses, which are designed to train members of the community as emergency service volunteers. The Big Bear Valley CERT program is currently 120 members strong and, this last weekend, the group had their first annual CERT family picnic, which was held at the American Legion and also included members of the Big Bear City Fire Department. Sue Wright, Logistics Chairman for Big Bear Valley CERT, tells KBHR, “Right now, we're involved in fire watch and, during the winter, we do ice patrol, to try to keep people off the lake ice. During the rest of the year, we have drills and ongoing training, in case we have an earthquake, fire or flood. We also have get-togethers during the year, and we have lots of fun as a group. There's also about 20 of us who have gotten our ham radio licenses in the last six months, so we can help out in the event of a disaster.” On Tuesday, August 12, the CERT group will hold a “meet the board” night at the Big Bear City Fire Department, at 6pm. In the meantime, additional CERT training courses will be offered, starting August 4. This series of five courses, four hours each, are open to all Valley residents, and cost is just $10 for the full series. For more information or to register, call the Big Bear City Fire Department at 585-2362.

DWP Board Will Continue to "Look at the System as One Integrated System" Per Chairman Foulkes
At this week's meeting of the Board of Commissioners of the Department of Water and Power, the agency's water system integration was discussed. With the exception of those serviced in the Rimforest area, the DWP Board agreed that all Big Bear Valley service areas would be treated, and charged, equally. According to DWP Chairman Steve Foulkes, given that the agency is “in the middle of a new rate study,” he says, “The consensus of the Board was to continue to look at the system as one integrated system, including Fawnskin and Lake Williams.” Though no formal action was taken on this item during the July 22 meeting, Foulkes tells KBHR that DWP plans to meet with the Water Committee and General Manager for the Big Bear City Community Services District to discuss water service to the Lake Williams area, which is provided with fire suppression services from the Big Bear City Fire Department under CSD's jurisdiction. Though no DWP/CSD meeting date has yet been set, Foulkes anticipates that it will come together in the not-too-distant future, at which time they could explore which water purveyor would be most appropriate to service those in Lake Williams.

Today Is Application Filing Deadline for Small Business Administration's Economic Injury Disaster Loans
Today is the last day for small businesses affected by October's Slide and Grass Vally Fires to apply for an Economic Injury Disaster Loan through the U.S. Small Business Administration. Even within the Big Bear Valley, those businesses that suffered economic loss—be it due to road closures, a drop-off in tourism, or a suspension in product delivery—are eligible for an Economic Injury Disaster Loan. As today is the deadline for applications resulting from the October 2007 wildfires, loans applications must be postmarked today, even if not received by the Small Business Administration on July 24. For more information, you can visit SBA online at sba.gov/services/disasterassistance, or call their offices at 800/659-2955.

Wednesday, July 23, 2008

Forest Service Releases Report on Fuels Reduction Effectiveness Related to October's Grass Valley Fire
Though the U.S. Forest Service is still investigating the cause of the Grass Valley Fire, which started on October 22 and ultimately burned 1,247 acres in the Lake Arrowhead area, destroyed 174 homes and damaged another 25 before being contained on October 29, a report has just been released on the effectiveness of fuels treatments during the fire. The two-part report, available online at the website of the San Bernardino National Forest [fs.fed.us/r5/sanbernardino/news/], details researchers' findings, including the following: Fire behavior in fuel treatment areas was less rapid and less intense than in adjacent untreated wildland fuel; fuel treatments reduced fire spread rate and allowed for improved visibility for firefighters; efforts of The Mountain Area Safety Taskforce hazard reduction program enhanced safe evacuation of thousands due to previous dead tree removal (so trees were not in roadways and ember production was reduced); the Grass Valley Fire burned more intensely within residential areas than in adjacent wildland fuels; and although torching and crowning occurred, the wildfire did not spread as a continuously crowning, high intensity fire. The report states that with the exception of six homes of the 199 damaged or destroyed in the Grass Valley Fire, high intensity wildfire was not a direct factor in igniting homes. For 193 of those homes, it was found that they were ignited either by fire spread through surface fuels within the residential area that then contacted homes or from thermal exposures directly related to burning residences. The Forest Service report findings say that firefighters were overwhelmed in their attempt to prevent the residential fire spread due to multiple homes burning simultaneously, though more homes would have burned without their intervention. The residential fire disaster of the Grass Valley Fire--which spread south through wildland fuels before transitioning to urban structural fuels—was principally the result of high home ignition potential. In the words of Forest Service, “The wildfire initiated the residential burning, but burning homes predominantly continued the fire spread to other homes without the wildfire as a significant factor.” For more information on the Grass Valley Fire of last October, you can access our moment-by-moment coverage in our Slide and Grass Valley Fire Archive, accessible from the 2008 Archive page.

County and ABC Offer LEAD Seminar and Certification in San Bernardino for Alcohol Vendors on July 28
The County's Public Health Department and the California Office of Alcohol Beverage Control will offer free training on Licensee Education on Alcohol and Drugs (also known as LEAD) in San Bernardino on July 28. This LEAD training seminar, which takes place next Monday afternoon at City Hall on D Street, is offered to owners, managers and employees of stores that sell alcohol, and information offered will relate to state and local alcohol laws, liabilities, community standards, checking ID, identifying and refusing sales to minors and intoxicated patrons. Those who attend this free, four-hour session will receive a three-year LEAD certification, issued by ABC. As seating is limited to 50, those interested in attending are encouraged to RSVP soon, by calling the County's Department of Public Health at 387-6280.


Watty's Famous Ass Explosion Chili, cooked up by Greg Watkins of San Diego and friends, took
top honors in the red chili competition at Saturday's Old Miners' Days Chili Cook-Off. As this
was a regional qualifier for the International Chili Society, Watkins can now take his famous red
chili to the ICS championships. More info and photos from the Chili Cook-Off posted on July 21.

CSD Addresses High Timber Ranch Development, Which Is Undergoing Environmental Impact Report
During the Board member reports portion of the Community Services District meeting on Monday evening, Director Bob Colven referenced the County's Planning Division meeting on the now-underway Environmental Impact Report for High Timber Ranch, the 196-lot development (which also includes three lettered lots) on 166 acres, being developed by Mike Rafferty in the area between Sugarloaf and Moonridge. Colven pointed out that the project is in the County's unincorporated jurisdiction, yet would receive water through the Big Bear Lake Department of Water and Power. Big Bear City Fire Chief Jeff Willis took to the podium during the CSD meeting, to address concerns of fire access for the proposed project which, in part, would be adjacent to U.S. Forest Service land. Per Chief Willis, “It's definitely an issue for the County, as well as transportation and fire to work with. Rest assured, the Big Bear City Fire Department and the County's transportation department will work to make sure we have access up there.” San Bernardino County Senior Planner Matt Slowick, in a subsequent conversation with KBHR, says that the High Timber Ranch development's project proposal and completed Environmental Impact Report will go before the County's Planning Commission, once the EIR is completed, but he says, “This may take a number of months. It could be six months, nine months, it could be a year.”


The ladies of the Chambermaids, an auxiliary branch of the Big Bear Chamber of Commerce,
participated in a year of fundraising, then gathered for their annual distribution lunch to share
nearly $15,000 with local groups.

Chambermaids Raise Nearly $15,000, and Share Those Funds With 10 Local Groups, Including Chautauqua
After another year of fundraising, the Chambermaids, the women's auxiliary branch of the Big Bear Chamber of Commerce, held their annual funds distribution luncheon last week. The 60plus women of the Chambermaids raised $14,700, and distributed those funds to local organizations and agencies which support the community, including a $10,500 donation to the Big Bear Chamber of Commerce. Per the Chamber's Executive Director Sara Russ, “The Chambermaids have worked very hard over the past year to raise money for the Chamber and the community. From bake sales to fashion shows and golf tournaments, they deserve a huge thank you for all their efforts, and the Chamber wouldn't be the same without them.” For her part, Chambermaids President Gail Dick says, “It was a lot of work and a complete team effort, but we enjoyed ourselves immensely. I am very proud to be the president of such an amazing group of women and we are already planning for the next year.” As for this year, portions of the nearly $15,000 raised were shared with the following: the Miss Big Bear Pageant, Chautauqua High School, Meals on Wheels, Big Bear Discovery Center, Bear Valley Search and Rescue, AAUW's Tech Trek program for girls, the Rotary Club's fireworks show, the Hospital Auxiliary and Civil Air Patrol.

BBARWA Board to Review Room Rental Policy and First Reading of Disposal Fee Ordinance Today
The Big Bear Area Regional Wastewater Agency will hold their regular monthly meeting today at 4:30pm, at their offices at 121 Palomino Drive in Big Bear City. This afternoon's meeting includes the first reading of the ordinance to increase the current fee schedule for the disposal of waste delivered to the regional treatment plant. This fee increase would not affect households, but would apply to those who, via truck, deliver and dispose of sewage at the BBARWA plant. The BBARWA Board will also review the Board Room rental policy, given a recent request from a spiritual center to hold Sunday worship services at BBARWA. At present, policy established in 2005 does not allow for the room to be used for parties, commercial events, and exercise classes, nor as the primary location for a business or place of worship.

Tuesday, July 22, 2008


Tim Sweet, Sewer Department Foreman for the Community Services District,
was recognized for his 25 years of service to the district during Monday's
meeting, which included a plaque presentation from CSD President Rick Ollila.

Planning Meeting for August 4 Ryan Hall Send-Off Event Set for This Thursday; Group Leaders Welcome
The Event Resource Office is hosting an informational meeting on Thursday, for those who would like to be directly involved in the August 4 community send-off for Olympian Ryan Hall. The ERO and the Lighthouse Project, in collaboration with the Bear Valley Unified School District, the Big Bear Lake Resort Association and the City of Big Bear Lake, are seeking community involvement for this historic event on the Big Bear Middle School field, and leader representatives from Valley organizations, clubs, agencies and churches are welcomed to Thursday's planning meeting, to be held at noon at Northwoods Resort in the Village. Says Event Resource Director Rick Bates, “If you have an organization and you want to be part of this historic event, please join us on Thursday.” Lunch snacks and refreshments will be offered at the meeting, and RSVPs are requested by calling the ERO at 866-2638.

CSD Board Approves Expenditure to Complete Purchase of New Radio Equipment for Bear City Fire Dept.
At last night's Board of Directors meeting for the Big Bear City Community Services District, the Board approved an expenditure of $29,278 in Fire Department Reserves to cover the cost of upgrading the department's two-way radio communication system. The initial portion of the upgrades will be covered by $144,000 in grant funding from the U.S. Office of Homeland Security, which was approved in November. As the Big Bear City Fire Department's portion of the grant is 5% in matching funds (to the grant's 95%) and, in the 18 months since applying for the grant, costs for electronic devices, wiring and shipping have increased 15%, the transfer of funds from reserves to the general fund will cover total cost for the radio equipment upgrades. Per Big Bear City Fire Chief Jeff Willis, “This takes our radios, adds to them, and puts our antiquated stuff out of service.” This will allow for “top-notch communication” Willis said, adding, “We've come a long way, and this grant will take us even further.”

Big Bear Chamber Invites Families to This Evening's Networking Mixer at the Moonridge Animal Park
The Big Bear Chamber of Commerce holds a networking mixer this evening, and the two-hour event at the Moonridge Animal Park is open to families, as docents from the zoo will be on hand to introduce the park's smaller animals to attendees, from 5 to 7pm. This evening's free networking mixer is hosted by Friends of the Moonridge Zoo, Big Bear Marina, First Mountain Bank, Holloway's Marina and RV Park, and the Captain's Anchorage, the Mandoline Bistro and Taste of Bear Catering, who will be providing food.

Breaking News as of 11am: Highway 330 Closed Due to Overturned Big Rig at Middle Passing Lane
Per CalTrans, the overturned big rig just north of the middle passing lane on Highway 330 has resulted in full closure of the roadway. No word yet on when Highway 330 will re-open, as a result of this accident in the 10 o'clock hour, but motorists are advised to, for the time being, take Highway 18 through Lucerne Valley or Highway 38 if leaving the mountain. Once again, Highway 330 is now closed in both directions, at the middle passing lane, due to an overturned big rig in the roadway. Update as of 11:45am: In our most recent conversation with CalTrans, they note that the overturned big rig just north of the middle passing lane on Highway 330 has resulted in, now, not a full closure but significant delays on the roadway. At this time, one lane is open on this portion of Highway 330, as crews try to remove the overturned big rig, with a set of doubles hauling cement, and flagging is underway. It is expected that Highway 330 will not be fully opened until at least 1:30 this afternoon. Update: As of 1:45pm, all lanes of Highway 330 have been re-opened.

The San Bernardino Animal Care and Control Program offers another dog licensing clinic in the
Big Bear Valley today, to be held at Sugarloaf Park from 6 to 7pm. (More details posted below.)

Library Closed for Two Weeks in September to Allow for Upgrades, Including New Circulation Desk
The Big Bear Library is scheduled for some upgrades in September, and Head Librarian Pamela Heiman tells KBHR that the Garstin Drive facility will be closed from September 13 through 27 and will re-open to the public on Monday, September 29. Heiman says that before upgrades can begin, all shelving (and all books) will first be removed, to allow for fresh paint and the replacement of carpet. “That's the biggie,” Heiman says, “the library hasn't been repainted in 16 years, but it's the new carpet we're really looking forward to.” In addition to County funds to be used for these library improvements, Heiman points out, “The community has helped us raise money, and the Friends of the Library are helping to pay for a new circulation desk, which will also allow for self check-out.” Though the library will be closed for those two weeks in September, patrons will be able to enjoy books during that time, if checked out by September 12. Once the library re-opens, the $5,000 in new books, purchased with the check from the 2007 Great American Race, will be available.

Mt. San Gorgonio Quake of 3.0 Magnitude Described as "Just a Normal Old Shaker on the Big Mountain"
Yesterday afternoon, there was a 3.0 magnitude earthquake, centered five miles west northwest of Mt. San Gorgonio at 1:21pm, per the U.S. Geological Survey. This quake, at a depth of four miles, was preceded by two smaller quakes centered outside Big Bear Lake. At 9:36 Monday morning, there was a 1.6 tremor four miles west of Big Bear Lake and then at 12:46pm, we had a 1.5 magnitude quake located eight miles northwest of Big Bear Lake. Per County Fire firefighter Norm Cione, stationed in Angelus Oaks, there were no calls resulting from the 3.0 Mt. San G quake. “Absolutely nothing has happened,” he tells KBHR. “It was just a normal old shaker on the big mountain.”

County Supervisors to Address Two BBV Recreation and Park District Items in This Morning's Meeting
The Board of Supervisors of San Bernardino County hold their weekly meeting this morning at 10am, at the County Government Center at 385 North Arrowhead Avenue in San Bernardino. In relation to the Big Bear Valley, there are two items on this morning's agenda that pertain to the Big Bear Valley Recreation and Park District, as the district is governed by the County. Supervisors will review and make recommendations for adjustments to salaries and benefits for non-represented employees of BBV Rec and Park. In a second item, Supervisors will post the vacancy for the Rec and Park's Advisory Commission, given Cheryl Shipe's recent resignation since moving to Colorado. The open seat on the Advisory Commission runs through January 31, 2012. (Registered voters who reside within the Lake Williams or Erwin Lake area can call Supervisor Hansberger's office at 866-0140 if interested in possible appointment to the Commission.) A regular Board of Supervisors meeting will not be held on July 29.

Monday, July 21, 2008



Local Mountain Bikers Find Fire Along Forest Road 2N10; Create Perimeter Line Until Crews Arrive
In the last two days, there have been two fires (one of them this morning) in the Barton Flats area off Highway 38, and the U.S. Forest Service says that each of these was likely sparked by lightning over the weekend. On Saturday morning around 10am, the Boulder Fire off Forest Service road 2N10, in the vicinity south of the Big Bear Lake Civic Center, had been spotted from the Fire Lookout Tower at Butler Peak and called in to the Big Bear Airport from pilots who had flown over the area. It wasn't until four mountain bikers, notable locals Craig Smith, Ken Dally, Ade Salzer and Rick Herrick, saw the small fire and called it in that U.S. Forest Service crews were able to narrow in on the remote location. In the meantime, the four bikers and three more who arrived shortly thereafter, Mike Well, Zach Dow and Mike Allison, created a fire perimeter line to hold the fire burning in duff and small logs, perhaps the result of an unattended campfire, to a roughly 40' x 40' area. During this early and intense fire season for California, all are reminded to be vigilant in practicing fire-safety and, remember, the U.S. Forest Service has imposed additional fire restrictions this summer, and no fires are permitted outside of designated fire rings in recreation sites within the San Bernardino National Forest. The U.S. Forest Service will continue with aircraft flyovers, to locate smoke in our area, during this monsoon weather cycle, which can result in lightning-sparked fires.

Tomorrow's DWP Meeting to Include Presentation from GM of Santa Ana Watershed Project Authority
The Board of Commissioners of the Department of Water and Power holds their monthly meeting tomorrow morning at 8am, at the DWP offices at 41972 Garstin Drive in Big Bear Lake. Items on the agenda include discussion of the Connection Policy, the template by which DWP instructs staff to address new development, and a Public Hearing on fees for assorted services that do not relate to user fees. The DWP Board will also address Water System Integration, and discuss whether isolated systems, such as those in Fawnskin and Lake Williams, should stay integrated within the overall DWP system. Tomorrow morning's meeting will also include a presentation by Celeste Cantu, General Manager of the Santa Ana Watershed Project Authority—per DWP's Bill LaHaye, “She is an outstanding speaker, and knows the Southern California water business extremely well.”

Local Favorites Return for Awards, and Dave Thomas of Oxnard Takes Top Honors in Chili Cook-Off
The results are in for the Old Miners Association's Chili Cook-Off, which took place in the Bartlett Lot during a full day of festivities on Saturday. First place winner in the salsa category was Irene Menchaca; top green chili honors went to Jim Beaty (who, in 1986, won the International Chili Society's world championship for his red chili); and top red title went to Watty's Famous Ass Explosion Chili, cooked up by Greg Watkins of San Diego. The team of Sam's Pirate Chili, created by Van Sorrel of Sugarloaf, son Paix and friends, won the Best Booth Award and, having bet on themselves during Friday night's Calcutta Dinner, they also took the Best Local Cook Award for green chili; the Calcutta winner for red was Mike Ford. John Whittaker of Long Beach was voted Best First Time Cook, and local regulars Susie and Bob Collins once again took home the Perpetual Merchants Award, on behalf of ERA Escrow, for their Western Devils Barn Burners Chili. And the big award for Best Overall was earned by Dave Thomas of Oxnard, who exclaimed “I can't believe it!” when his Crazee Horse Chili was selected by the International Chili Society's Mark Sweeney and other judges for top honors. In addition to cash prizes and trophies, top cooks Thomas, Beaty and Watkins are now eligible to compete in the International Chili Society championships.


Old Miners Days gets spicy: Perpetual Merchant winners Susie and Bob Collins and granddaugher Riley; Granny Clementine
Teresa Vasquez and husband Joe; and double winner Paix Sorrel of Sam's Pirate Chili (with Mark 'Chili' Gaines).

Breaking News: Small Fire, Presumably Sparked by Lightning, Burning Near Barton Flats Off Highway 38
There is a small fire burning in the Barton Flats area off Highway 38 [as of 9:50am], and smoke may be visible to those in the area. John Miller with the U.S. Forest Service says that more than likely this was sparked by lightning over the weekend, as was another small fire in that area yesterday, which was quickly contained by Forest Service fire crews. Miller says these lightning-sparked fires tend to be limited to a single tree, and this morning's fire near Barton Flats is being diffused at this time. Miller says that as monsoon weather continues, fixed wing aircraft will continue to fly over our area, to patrol for lightning-sparked fires. Update as of 2pm: The small fire that was burning in the vicinity of Barton Flats this morning, near the boundary for the San Gorgonio Wilderness, was controlled by U.S. Forest Service crews in the 1 o'clock hour this afternoon. Total burned acreage was held to one quarter acre.

Intense 2008 Fire Season for California; Local Agencies Post Fire Preparedness Tips and Information
Fire season has been intense and early for the state of California this year, though no immediate threats have been posed for the Big Bear Valley. As Governor Schwarzenegger said in recent weeks, “Fire season as we know it in California is pretty much over. Now it's fire season all year long.” The National Multi-Agency Coordinating Group, or NMAC, sets national preparedness levels, as it pertains to fire, on a scale of 1 to 5, and for the 2008 fire season, PL5 (which is the most severe) was reached earlier than in years past. Per the National Interagency Fire Center, based in Boise, Idaho, PL5 was called on June 30, which is the second earliest date since 1990 that PL5 has been reached—only on June 21, 2002 was PL5 reached earlier. Per the Interagency Fire Center, “As the season intensifies, it's a reminder to the public to be careful with and around fire, and for those who own homes in fire-prone areas to take the few simple steps needed to help their property to become more defensible.” If you did not receive the locally-specific Mountain Area Safety Taskforce mailing on fire safety, which included evacuation route information and a DVD, you can access the information at calmast.org. Other resources and information are available on the websites of our local fire agencies, at bigbearcityfire.org and thinisin.org.

County Offers Dog Licensing Clinic and Rabies Vaccinations at Sugarloaf Park Tuesday Evening
The San Bernardino Animal Care and Control Program is offering low-cost rabies vaccinations for dogs and cats, as well as a licensing clinic, at Sugarloaf Park tomorrow, Tuesday, from 6 to 7pm. During the clinic, rabies vaccinations for dogs and cats will be offered for just $6 each, payable in cash only. Dog licenses will be available at a cost of $15 for altered dogs; $9 for those belonging to senior citizens. The cost for a dog license for unaltered dogs is $96, and licenses may be paid for by cash or check. County Licensing Supervisor Lynda Louden points out that all dogs at the clinic must be on a leash, cats must be in a pet carrier, and all animals must be in the controlled care of an adult. Staff at the clinic will also be available to answer questions regarding the spay and neuter voucher program. These questions, or any others regarding the clinic, again scheduled for tomorrow evening at Sugarloaf Park, can also be directed to the Animal Care and Control Program at 800/472-5609.

Community Services District Board Not Scheduled to Discuss Paid Call Firefighter Ordinance This Evening
The Board of Directors of the Big Bear City Community Services District meets for their second meeting of the