Saturday, September 6, 2008

First Annual Big Bear Marathon Results
The race management company HBT Events produced the first annual Big Bear Marathon on Saturday. Hundreds of athletes participated; the top male and female marathoners were Tony Torres of Cedar Glen (2:41:48) and Judy Maguire (3:16).

Several Big Bear residents had strong finishes in the marathon (listed by place, name, time and age):

6 Dolezal, David 3:15:37.4 39yo
11 Caballero, Alejandro 3:28:50.7 39yo
15 Gordon, Jim 3:34:56.4
34 Halamicek, Kevin 3:47:00.9 31yo
53 Congdon, Craig 4:04:19.3 47yo
58 Brunson, Kelley 4:06:51.0 34yo F
64 Wood, Tyler 4:09:55.1 33yo
147 Waner, Lisa 4:50:21.7 46yo
148 Cassling, Michelle 4:50:24.2 39yo
154 Halamicek, Patricia 4:53:36.4 27yo
161 Bradley, Diane 4:57:23.8 47yo
162 Masuga, Katy 5:05:28.7 32yo
173 Melton, Jonathan 5:07:49.3 26yo
175 Moore, Jack 5:11:57.0 76yo

HBT offers endurance athletes professional events throughout the Inland Empire. Upcoming races include a triathlon in Victorville next weekend, and on January 1, a triathlon and trail run in Snow Valley. For the Big Bear Marathon, HBT had help from many local residents and organizations, including the Event Resource Office, the Chambermaids - who hosted the Kids 1K run - and Big Bear's Olympian, Ryan Hall. Hall placed 10th in the Olympic Marathon on August 23 and was the keynote speaker at Friday's Expo at Snow Summit. In addition, eighteen local service clubs and governmental bodies hosted aid stations along the race route:

Mile 1: City of Big Bear Lake/The Big Bear Cowboy Gathering, “A Cowboy Gathering”
Mile 4: Big Bear Lake International Film Festival, “Going to The Movies”
Mile 6: Holloway's Marina, “Pirates of Big Bear”
Mile 8: North Shore Improvement Association, “Xmas in Fawnskin”
Mile 10: Discovery Center with Sierra Club Big Bear Group, “Margaritaville”
Mile 12: Big Bear High School Cross Country Team, “Ice Cream Stop”

Friday, September 5, 2008

* Details on Saturday morning road closures, as prompted by Big Bear Marathon, posted below (Thursday). *

CHP Reports That Labor Day Weekend Travel in the Mountains Results in Zero Fatalities, Six DUI Arrests
The California Highway Patrol has today released the traffic statistics from the Labor Day Maximum Enforcement Period, which covered Friday evening, August 29 from through Monday, Labor Day, at midnight. For the Riverside and San Bernardino Counties, there were two fatal traffic collisions resulting in two deaths—this total is less than last year's six fatalities and, of these, there were no fatalities (this year or last) in our area, which the CHP refers to as the Arrowhead division. Within the Arrowhead area, which includes Highways 18, 38 and 330 and other mountain roads, there were six DUI arrests made, which reflects zero change from Labor Day 2007, during which six DUIs arrests were also made.

CalTrans to Accept Contractor Bids, Come Monday, for Big Bear Dam Bridge Replacement Project
Despite funding issues at the state level, CalTrans is still planning to move forward with the Big Bear Dam bridge replacement project. In May, CalTrans officials said that funding for the estimated $60 million project was secure, and all the money was programmed for the new portion of the roadway which will be installed just southwest of the current dam. This still holds true as, come next Monday, September 8, contractor bids will be accepted over an eight-week period. It is expected that the contract for the dam bridge replacement project will be awarded in December and, per Terri Kasinga with CalTrans, we may see some preliminary work on the project through the winter months (though this will accommodate special species in the area, given the use of U.S. Forest Service land and details of the environmental clearance, which was granted in March of 2007). For the time being, Kasinga says, “Right now we're looking at any traffic impacts.” Once construction begins on the bridge, referred to by the project manager as a “signature project” for CalTrans, it is estimated that completion will take up to 2½ years. The new bridge will have two lanes, a left-hand turn lane, 10' shoulders, a sidewalk on the lake side, and ambient lighting. As initial project manager Bryce Johnston told Big Bear Lake officials in May, “We want it to be something the community will be proud of. We're trying to make everything as natural as possible.”

Local U.S. Post Offices to Offer Special Pictorial Postmark to Commemorate First Big Bear Marathon
The U.S. Post Offices of the Big Bear Valley will commemorate the first-ever Big Bear Marathon with a special pictorial cancellation postmark. The special marathon postmark will be available as of tomorrow, September 6, and for 30 days thereafter. The Fawnskin Post Office will offer the postmark at a booth along the marathon course on North Shore Drive on Saturday, the Big Bear City Post Office will have a post stationed along the Country Club Boulevard portion of the race, and the Big Bear Lake branch will offer the postmark on site, at their location at Pine Knot Boulevard's north end. Postmaster Cynthia Crane of Fawnskin says that pictorial cancellation postmarks, such as our special Big Bear Marathon one, recognize special events and are considered collector's items.

Death of David Lasky of Sugarloaf Results in Gross Vehicular Manslaughter Charge for Brother Stephen
On Saturday, June 21 in the 2am hour, a vehicle chase on Keller Peak Road off Highway 18, stemming from an alleged altercation at a campground in the vicinity of Running Springs, resulted in the death of 20-year-old David Lasky of Sugarloaf. San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department Homicide Detail has been investigating the incident since the death of Lasky, who had been one of four passengers in the truck being driven by his younger brother, 18-year-old Stephen Lasky of Running Springs. Reports from the late night incident also identified three victims, who had been in the second vehicle, and those unnamed individuals were a 17-year-old male from Skyforest, an 18-year-old female from Crestline, and a 19-year-old female from Green Valley Lake. In the original press release from the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department, it was noted: “The victims of the assault fled in a vehicle and were chased by the suspect, Stephen Lasky. David Lasky was hanging out of the passenger window, while his brother Stephen was driving. Stephen Lasky intentionally rammed the victim's vehicle several times during the chase. On the last intentional strike, Stephen Lasky lost control of his pickup, causing it to roll onto the passenger side.” In a press release issued by the County Sheriff's Department today, the update is as follows: “On Tuesday, September 2, investigators arrested Christina Marhoun (age 20) for PC 245 Assault with a Deadly Weapon. Through their investigation, investigators determined that Marhoun had struck one of the victims in the face during the fight that occurred at the camprgound prior to the two parties fleeing in their vehicles. The District Attorney's office issued a warrant for Marhoun and she was subsequently arrested, transported and booked in to the Central Detention Center. Christina Marhoun is currently out on bail. On Wednesday, September 3, the suspect, Stephen Lasky, turned himself in at the courthouse in San Bernardino. Following the review of the report submitted by the Homicide Team, the District Attorney's office issued a warrant for Lasky's arrest. Lasky will be transported and booked into the West Valley Detention Center, where he will be charged with three counts of Attempted Murder and one count of Gross Vehicular Manslaughter while intoxicated. Anyone with additional information regarding this incident is asked to contact Detective Rick Bessinger or Sergeant Tony DeCecio at 387-3589. Those who wish to remain anonymous may call call We Tip at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463).”

Municipal Water District Board to Address Contract Proposal Re. Dam Bridge Replacement Today
The Board of Directors of the Big Bear Municipal Water District meet for their regular meeting at 1pm this afternoon, at the MWD offices at 40524 Lakeview Drive in Big Bear Lake. Business Items on today's agenda include approval of a $41,800 contract proposal from MWH Americas for the dam impact coordination with the Highway 18 bridge removal, and Board consideration of a resolution encouraging MWD participation in the Great Southern California Shakeout (the earthquake disaster drill planned for November 13).

Breaking News as of 8:40am: Reports of Possible Fire Off Highway 18, Near Rim of the World High School
As of about 8:30am this morning, reports of a possible fire off Highway 18 were reported to officials with the San Bernardino National Forest. The possible brush fire is said to be in the vicinity of Highway 18 just east of Rim of the World High School. Should these reports be verified and the fire pose any threat to the Big Bear area or the state highway, we will be sure to bring you the latest. Update as of 9:35am: In the hour since we brought you this news, crews from the Forest Service have investigated the report and, as it turns out, it was not smoke but dust. Construction crews are working in the area, and the dirt that was kicked up looked like smoke, which prompted the calls to the San Bernardino County Fire Department and the San Bernardino National Forest--so, that said, no fire off Highway 18 at this time.


Canoers enjoy a serene paddle on Big Bear Lake's Grout Bay, in Fawnskin.

Wednesday, September 3, 2008

City of Big Bear Lake and Big Bear City Fire Department Still Offering Free Curbside Chipping
Curbside chipping opportunities are still available to residents at both ends of the Valley. Should you have cleared defensible space on your property over the three-day weekend and are ready to have that vegetation removed, simply call to arrange for free pickup. For those within the City of Big Bear Lake, the Neighborhood Chipping Request Line is 752-2805. Crews from the City's Public Works Department will pick up tree and brush trimmings, though request that curbside piles do not contain any rootballs, limbs or trunks larger than eight inches in diameter. Bagged pine needles, weeds and leaves, also, are not for the chipping truck, but pickup can be arranged by calling Big Bear Disposal at 866-3942. For those at the east end of the Valley, in areas serviced by the Big Bear City Fire Department, curbside chipping can be requested by calling 585-2362 by month's end. Says Big Bear City Fire Chief Jeff Willis, “The primary goal is to remove overgrown, dense brush, small trees, limbs and dead material. We also encourage property cleanup, such as weeds, pine needles, leaves, etc. These items can be bagged and placed curbside for Big Bear City Community Services District refuse pickup during this same time.” For more information on creating defensible space and curbside chipping programs, you can visit thinisin.org and bigbearcityfire.org.

Big Bear Chamber of Commerce Hosts Power Breakfast at Northwoods in the Village Tomorrow
The Big Bear Chamber of Commerce hosts their first-Thursday-of-the-month Power Breakfast tomorrow, which begins at Northwoods Resort in the Village at 7am. Tomorrow's breakfast will include the round-the-room orientation, during which time each Chamber member and guest will have a moment to introduce themselves and their business, as well as two featured speakers, those being Cathy Schacht, a certified personal trainer with the Village Spa, and Walter Con, Director of Business Services for the Bear Valley Unified School District. Cost for the Big Bear Chamber of Commerce Power Breakfast is $12 for Chamber members and $15 for guests.

Be a Survivor, Get Ready Now: September Is National Preparedness Month; Shakeout Drill in November
In anticipation of the Great Southern California Shakeout--the largest disaster drill ever, which will simulate a 7.8 magnitude quake on November 13—San Bernardino County's Office of Emergency Services is recognizing September as National Preparedness Month. The goal of the multi-agency outreach effort is to present a manageable, step-by-step approach for residents to become prepared so, this month, the first of three steps encourages all to “Be a Survivor, Get Ready Now.” Step one is among the must crucial preparedness steps and involves creating and maintaining an emergency supplies kit. Each household is advised to have a kit containing food, water, first aid supplies, clothing and bedding, tools, emergency supplies, and special items for medical conditions. Per the County's OES Department, residents should keep enough food and water to sustain themselves for a minimum of 72 hours, though it is best to be prepared for two weeks. For more information on earthquake preparedness, visit sbcfire.org/oes; for details on the Great Southern California Shakeout, visit shakeout.org.

Recreation and Park District Plans More Concerts and Movie Nights at Swim Beach Next Summer
Reese Troublefield, Director of the Big Bear Valley Recreation and Park District, reports that the first “Movie on the Beach” event at Swim Beach on Saturday night was “great” with a turnout of over 250 movie-goers who enjoyed “Surf's Up” lakeside, including lots of children and many seniors as well. Troublefield also noted, “The snack bar was hammered, like at a drive-in movie!” Due to the success of movie-on-the-beach night, and this summer's first-ever concert on the beach, which raised over $9000 to benefit the Teen Center, more activities are planned for Swim Beach next summer. Next year's schedule will include five summer concerts, mixed with five movie nights on 10 Saturdays, beginning Memorial Day weekend and, adds Troublefield, “We're really looking forward to this new programming.”

County Sends Fire Incident Management Team to Mississippi to Assist in Hurricane Gustav Recovery
San Bernardino County last night sent a four-member County Fire Incident Management Team to Gulfport, Mississippi, to assist the Gulf Coast city in its recovery from Hurricane Gustav and to help the community prepare for future disasters. The primary mission of the team—which includes County Fire's Division Chiefs George Corley, Tim Wessel and Alan Stocker, and Battalion Chief Gary Bush—will be to support the city's efforts to create a written Incident Action Plan that would include a scenario based around a Category 4 or greater hurricane. Of the trip, Board of Supervisors Vice Chairman Gary Ovitt says, “We are following through on a commitment the county made following Hurricane Katrina to help Gulfport in times of need. Gulfport has made the same commitment, having sent fire officials to assist San Bernardino County during last year's wildfires.” San Bernardino County Fire Chief Pat Dennen adds, “In preparation for a major disaster such as a hurricane or earthquake, we recommend that people have an out-of-state contact they can call after the incident. This is the same concept, just on a larger scale. If Gulfport has a disaster, they can call San Bernardino County, and we will already have a copy of their plan, phone numbers for key personnel, and maps of the city with GPS coordinates. If we have a disaster, Gulfport will have our information.” San Bernardino County's efforts in 2005, following Hurricane Katrina, were honored with a 2006 National Association of Counties Achievement Award and the 2006 Inland Empire Red Cross Humanitarian Award.

School Board to Meet for Regular Meeting This Evening at 6:15pm, at BVUSD Offices on Moonridge Road
The Board of Trustees of the Bear Valley Unified School District meet this evening for their regular board meeting at 6:15pm, to be held at the school district offices at 42271 Moonridge Road in Big Bear Lake. This evening's meeting is scheduled to include a sports facility update from Trustee Dr. Ken Turney, and a senior project presentation on solar energy by 2008 Big Bear High School graduate Aimee Fritch.

Tuesday, September 2, 2008

Airport District Board to Take Action on Draft Master Plan Tomorrow; 10am Meeting for Public Review
The Board of Directors of the Big Bear Airport District will convene for their regular monthly meeting tomorrow, Wednesday, at 2pm in the pilots lounge of the Big Bear Airport, during which time the Board will take action on the amended Draft Master Plan for the airport. Prior to the afternoon meeting, a 10am public meeting will be held to review the Draft Master Plan. Per Airport General Manager Garry Dokter, “The Board of Directors of the Big Bear Airport, in considering public input and comment on the Draft Master Plan, has approved an amendment to remove all references to the acquisition of private property surrounding the airport. Since this is a significant amendment, we want to share this information.” The 10am public meeting, which will include a review by consultants Barnard Dunkelberg & Company, will also take place in the pilots lounge, at the airport at 501 W. Valley Boulevard in Big Bear City. In the meantime, the Draft Master Plan is available for review at the airport offices.

Senior Girls Dias, Hirschler, Lewis, Rodgers and Smith Named to Big Bear High School Homecoming Court
The Big Bear High School 2008 Homecoming Court has been named, as of today. The five senior girls, one of whom will be named Homecoming Queen on Minder Field on September 20, are Vondalynn Dias, Michelle Hirschler, Megan Lewis, Mary Kate Rodgers and Katherine Smith. This year's BBHS court will also include Honorary Princess Katia Bouder, exchange student from France.

Local Vendors, Athletes and Volunteers Encouraged to Participate in Big Bear Marathon This Saturday
The first-ever Big Bear Marathon runs through the Valley this Saturday, September 6, and there are still many opportunities for locals to get involved in the big event. Thousands of racers are anticipated, and vendors can reach this affluent group during the Marathon Expo, which takes place at the base of Snow Summit Resort from 10am to 7pm on Friday, and along Pine Knot Boulevard in the Village on Saturday from 4am to 4pm. During the two-day expo, racers will be checking in for the marathon, half-marathon, bike tour, 5K and 1K runs; vendor booths are available at a cost of $250 for both days, and cost includes tables, chairs and a canopy provided by event organizer HBT Events. To arrange for a booth during this high-profile event, contact Rich White at 573-3700; to participate as a volunteer during the marathon, contact Cheryl at volunteer@hbtevents.com. Local athletes of all ability levels are also encouraged to participate in the five events, including the 6am bike tour, which is not a timed event. Rich White, a local cyclist involved in the event, tells KBHR, “You get a t-shirt, and a great view of Big Bear Lake.” There is also a locals' discount offered so, using the code BBM08 (that's zero 8) online at HBTEvents.com, locals can participate in the bike tour at a reduced cost of $35. Cost to participate in the other events of the Big Bear Marathon range from $20 (for the 1K, open to children and adults) to $80 (for the 26.2 mile run), for those who register by noon on Thursday, though on-site registration will also be available on Saturday (as well as at the expo on Friday). For more information, visit HBTEvents.com and, before the big day, be sure to visit this page again for important Saturday morning road closure information.

Community Emergency Response Team Meets This Evening; Fundraiser Scheduled for September 29
The Big Bear Valley Community Emergency Response Team meets this evening at 6pm at the Big Bear City Fire Department. Current CERT members, inactive members and all those who plan to train with the emergency team are invited to the monthly meeting, which will include updated information on ice patrol training and the Golden Guardian program, sponsored by the state. Our local CERT team have this summer been participating in mountain fire watches and, come September 29, will host their first fundraiser at Sonora Cantina. Funds from this event will be used to purchase equipment and supplies necessary for community emergency incidents. For more information about the Community Emergency Response Team, or this evening's 6pm meeting, contact the Big Bear Lake Fire Department at 866-4668 or the Big Bear City Fire Department at 585-2362.

Local U.S. Post Offices Offer Special Big Bear Marathon Postmark; P.O. Counter Hours Outlined
All five U.S. Post Offices in the Big Bear Valley were closed yesterday in observance of Labor Day and, as of today, normal hours resume. Should you need those specifics, here are the standard counter hours for our local post offices. The Big Bear Lake Post Office, under the direction of Postmaster Javier Fregoso, offers counter hours from 8:30am to 5pm Monday through Friday, and from 10am to noon on Saturday; the Moonridge station, behind Vons, offers counter hours from 9am to 4pm Monday through Friday. The Big Bear City Post Office, overseen by Postmaster Ron Ward, provides counter hours from 9am to 4:30pm Monday through Friday, with pickups available on Saturday from 1 to 2pm; the Sugarloaf P.O. provides counter hours from noon to 4pm Monday through Friday, with pickups available in the noon hour on Saturday. The Fawnskin Post Office, run by Postmaster Cynthia Crane, is open for counter hours from 8am to 4:30pm Monday through Friday (though closed for an hour at 12:30 each day), and Saturday counter services are offered from 8:30 to 10:30am. Online postal services are also available 24/7 at usps.com, but you'll need to visit a local post office to take advantage of the special commemorative Big Bear Marathon postmark, which will be available as of Saturday.

Poll Workers Needed for Presidential General Election on November 4; Training to Be Provided
At 7am on Tuesday, November 4, all polling places in San Bernardino County will be opened for voters to cast their ballots in the Presidential General Election. At present, there are still many openings throughout the County for persons willing to help at polling places. Bilingual volunteers (fluent in English and Spanish) are especially needed for this important civic duty. Poll workers attend special two-hour training classes, detailing job specifics and election procedures. For those interested in serving, no experience is required to be a poll worker, however poll workers must be citizens of the United States and registered voters. Inspectors will earn $135, plus $30 for a three-hour training class; poll clerks will earn $100 on Election Day, plus $15 for a two-hour training class. Bilingual poll workers receive an additional $10 stipend. Those interested in serving on November 4 can contact the San Bernardino County Registrar of Voters at 387-8300, or toll-free at 800/881-8683.

San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors Will Not Meet Today; Next Regular Meeting on September 9
The Board of Supervisors of San Bernardino County will not be meeting today, for their regular weekly meeting. The next regular meeting of the Board of Supervisors will take place on Tuesday, September 9, with the public session beginning at 10am.

Monday, September 1, 2008 -- Labor Day

Marijuana Eradication Operation Near Onyx Summit; Over 3,000 Mature Plants Seized, Two Arrested
On Friday, August 29, at 5:30 am, a ground team consisting of the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department's Marijuana Eradication Team, Sheriff's Aviation Division, U.S. Forest Service, DEA and CAMP (Campaign Against Marijuana Planting) entered Deadman's Canyon near Onyx Summit (at Bear Valley's east end). At the cultivation site after about a 45-minute hike, the team encountered a campsite with two Hispanic males who fled from the officers on foot. The officers gave chase through the mountains for about a mile until they located the suspects hiding in the brush. The cultivation contained 3,208 mature, budding marijuana plants which varied in size from two feet to eight feet tall. This cultivation has an approximate value of $11,228,000. The campsite appeared as if it were occupied full-time by the two suspects. All of the plants and equipment were removed as evidence. Approximately 30 law enforcement personnel participated in this eradication. Investigators do not believe there are any outstanding suspects. Federal charges will be filed pending the outcome of a Grand Jury indictment.

Community Services District's Board Will Not Meet Today; Next Meeting Scheduled for September 15
The Board of Directors of the Big Bear City Community Services District will not hold their regular meeting this evening, in observance of Labor Day. The September 1 CSD meeting has been adjourned to the regular meeting of September 15, to be held at 5:30pm at the CSD offices at 139 E. Big Bear Boulevard in Big Bear City.

Big Bear's History Museum Open Today for Labor Day; Valley Artifacts from Serrano Indians on Display
Though the Historical Museum is generally open on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday during the summer season, the Big Bear Valley Historical Society will have the museum, the only one in the San Bernardino mountains, open today for Labor Day. From 10am to 4pm, guests can experience Big Bear's history, as the museum offers Valley-specific artifacts and displays on the Serrano Indians and Big Bear's fox farm industry, as well as some historic buildings, including the original Mt. Doble schoolhouse (which was used as early as 1901). The Historical Museum is located in Big Bear City, off Greenway Drive (which is also Highways 18 and 38), and admission price for adults is just $3. For more information or driving directions, you can visit bigbearhistory.org.

Friday, August 29, 2008

Enjoy Labor Day weekend in Big Bear!

Cal State San Bernardino Adds Another Prestigious National Listing
U.S. News & World Report has included Cal State San Bernardino among its top colleges in the 2009 edition of “America's Best Colleges” in its list of Best Universities-Master's for the west region. Also, Cal State San Bernardino was recently listed among the “Best in the West” by the Princeton Review in the Western section of its “2009 Best Colleges: Region by Region” edition. “We're pleased that Cal State San Bernardino continues to be considered a top Western university by U.S. News & World Report, especially following a similar recognition from the Princeton Review,” said CSUSB President Albert Karnig. “This is simply further confirmation of the outstanding quality of our faculty and staff. Their commitment to excellence in and out of the classroom have made the university special." Residents of Big Bear interested in learning more about Cal State San Bernardino can call 880-5000 or go to their website at csusb.edu.

California Boating Safety Reminder
With so many more boaters expected on the lake this Labor Day weekend, the Department of Boating and Waterways urges boaters to operate safely and wear their life jackets. As of August the agency has been notified of 29 boating-related fatalities throughout the state.  Most fatalities occur during the busy summer holiday periods of Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day weekends when waterways get crowded and the chances for collisions increase, so it is important that boaters maintain a proper lookout, abstain from alcohol, and wear life jackets. Operator inattention is the leading cause of boating accidents, contributing to 44 percent of all California boating accidents in 2007, according to DBW's 2007 California Boating Safety Report. When boaters are recreating, they may neglect to watch out for other boats. While the operator is ultimately responsible for maintaining a proper lookout, it is a good idea to designate someone else on board to help watch for other traffic.

Protect Against the Quagga Mussel in Big Bear Lake
Before launching a boat into Big Bear Lake, the Municipal Water District reminds that a Quagga Mussel survey must first be completed, to assure that the invasive species does not infect our lake. The invasive Quagga Mussel has not yet infected Big Bear Lake, as it has many waterways in the United States. You can do your part by making sure that your vessel—whether boat, kayak, canoe, or even a floating device—has first been cleaned, drained and dry. Quagga Mussel surveys are available from marinas within the Valley, as well as the public boat launch ramps on Big Bear Lake's North Shore. The public launch ramps also have available a free Quagga Mussel decontamination, which consists of a high-pressure power wash, free of chemicals. For more information, you may call the MWD at 866-5796, or stop by their offices at 40524 Lakeview Drive, just west of the Village off Paine Road.

Big Bear Airport Meetings Scheduled
There is a special meeting of the Big Bear Airport Development Committee scheduled for Tuesday, September 2 at 10am in the Pilots Lounge of the Terminal Building at the airport. Also, there will be a Public Workshop to present the McHugh Consulting hangar construction site selection study scheduled for Wednesday, September 3 at 9am in the Pilots Lounge in the Terminal Building at the airport.

This Weekend a Maximum Enforcement Period on California Roadways for the CHP
Due to a higher number of fatal accidents on mountain roads last year than in years past, CalTrans has joined forces with the California Highway Patrol, the U.S. Forest Service and the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department to implement a Safe Roads campaign, targeted at motorists who travel our mountain highways. Terri Kasinga with CalTrans tells KBHR that of 2007's 19 accidents that resulted in 21 fatalities, only one of those collisions was weather related. The message of the Safe Roads campaign, Kasinga says, is “Slow down. Drivers need to review their driving habits and remember that there's not a lot of room for error on curving mountain roads. Only one little mistake can result in a fatality.” The upcoming Labor Day Weekend will be a Maximum Enforcement Period for the California Highway Patrol. From 6pm. Friday through midnight Monday, officers will be looking for violators of the three major causes of highway deaths: speeding, DUI and people not wearing their seatbelts. The worst Labor Day weekend death toll in California was 81 in 1980. Last year, 49 people were killed on California roadways. The CHP want to remind you to drive safely, don't drink and drive, and remember to wear your seatbelt.

Labor Day Weekend Visitors Expected to Visit the National Forest
According to John Miller, Information Officer for the U.S. Forest Service, the San Bernardino National Forest is prepared for the upcoming holiday weekend.  The San Gorgonio Wilderness has two small lakes, meadows, streams, 100+ miles of trail, densely forested northern slopes, and rugged terrain with elevations ranging from 4,400 to 11,499 feet. The Mountaintop Ranger District recently re-opened the Little Green Valley Trail near Snow Valley to hiking, mountain bikes and horseback riding. The 2.5 mile trail was closed as a result of damage from the Butler #2 and Slide Fires last fall. “Forest Service trail crews have done a tremendous job this year getting the trails open” said District Ranger Kurt  Winchester. The Pacific Crest Trail and Grays Peak Trail near Fawnskin also were repaired and re-opened earlier this year. Campers can expect campgrounds to fill up over the holiday weekend and are encouraged to make reservations early. Campground reservations can be made on-line through Reserve USA at recreation.gov or by calling toll free 1-877-444-6777. The Forest Adventure Pass must be displayed on a visitor's parked vehicle when recreating in high impact recreation areas and certain developed sites like campgrounds and picnic areas. Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) users can now download a riding area map, which are also available at the forest ranger stations. The San Bernardino National Forest OHV webpage address is fs.fed.us/r5/sanbernardino/recreation/ohv. Check with the local ranger stations for requirements and restrictions or, for a free forest visitor's guide, you can contact the Big Bear Ranger Station and Discovery Center at 909/382-2790.

Fire Restrictions in the San Bernardino National Forest
Given the high fire risk in the Big Bear Valley, which is surrounded by the San Bernardino National Forest, illegal campfires are prohibited. Per Fire Management Officer Mike Dietrich with the U.S. Forest Service, “Most wildfires are human caused, and most times it's accidental but, accident or not, we are aggressively enforcing fire regulations on the forest.” Current fire restrictions include the following: wood and charcoal fires permitted only in agency developed fire rings in developed recreation sites; no fires in Yellow Post campsites; recreational shooting limited to public shooting ranges, such as the Big Bear Sportsman's Club Shooting Range; approved spark arrestors required for any internal combustion engine, which applies to chainsaws, generators, motorcycles and off-highway vehicles; smoking limited to enclosed vehicles, developed recreation sites and areas cleared of vegetation three feet in diameter; and fireworks are always prohibited on the San Bernardino National Forest. The violation of these laws could result in fines, and even jail time, and anyone who causes a wildfire could be liable for all costs associated with suppressing the fire. Questions on fire restrictions can be addressed by calling 382-2600, or visiting the Big Bear Discovery Center, on Big Bear Lake's North Shore.

Thursday, August 28, 2008

Protect Against the Quagga Mussel in Big Bear Lake
Before launching a boat into Big Bear Lake, the Municipal Water District reminds that a Quagga Mussel survey must first be completed, to assure that the invasive species does not infect our lake. The invasive Quagga Mussel has not yet infected Big Bear Lake, as it has many waterways in the United States. You can do your part by making sure that your vessel—whether boat, kayak, canoe, or even a floating device—has first been cleaned, drained and dry. Quagga Mussel surveys are available from marinas within the Valley, as well as the public boat launch ramps on Big Bear Lake's North Shore. The public launch ramps also have available a free Quagga Mussel decontamination, which consists of a high-pressure power wash, free of chemicals. For more information, you may call the MWD at 866-5796, or stop by their offices at 40524 Lakeview Drive, just west of the Village off Paine Road.

California Boating Safety Reminder
With so many more boaters expected on the lake this Labor Day weekend, the Department of Boating and Waterways urges boaters to operate safely and wear their life jackets. As of August, the agency has been notified of 29 boating-related fatalities throughout the state. Most fatalities occur during the busy summer holiday periods of Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day weekends when waterways get crowded and the chances for collisions increase, so it is important that boaters maintain a proper lookout, abstain from alcohol, and wear life jackets. Operator inattention is the leading cause of boating accidents, contributing to 44 percent of all California boating accidents in 2007, according to DBW's 2007 California Boating Safety Report. When boaters are recreating, they may neglect to watch out for other boats. While the operator is ultimately responsible for maintaining a proper lookout, it is a good idea to designate someone else on board to help watch for other traffic.

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

USPS Employee Parris Retires
The Big Bear Lake Post Office is saying good-bye to long time employee Robert "Crow" Parris who will be working his last shift tomorrow, August 28, until 1pm. Parris, a longtime Big Bear resident, is celebrating retirement after 34 years and 10 months with the United States Postal Service. Residents are invited to come say thanks and bid a farewell to Crow and enjoy some cake being served in the Big Bear Lake Post Office lobby.

Big Bear Valley Post Offices Offer Special Pictorial Cancellation Postmark for Marathon
For the first time in the Big Bear Valley, all three Big Bear Valley post offices will be issuing a special pictorial cancellation postmark to commemorate the first running of the Big Bear Marathon on September 6th. Cynthia Crane, Postmaster of the Fawnskin Post Office, announced that there will be a special event table set up at the Fawnskin Post Office on North Shore Drive during the day of the marathon and that the Big Bear Lake and Big Bear City branches will be offering the postmark as well. The special postmark will also be available at all three post offices for 30 days after the event. You can obtain one as a souvenir by purchasing a stamped envelope at the post office or bring your own stamped envelope to any of the three Valley post offices. According to Cynthia Crane, pictorial cancellation postmarks are used nationally by post offices to recognize special events and are collector's items.

BBCCSD Park and Rec Committee Meets
The Park and Recreation Committee of the Big Bear City Community Services District will hold a meeting this morning at 10am at the Bear Valley Rec and Park District office at 41220 Park Avenue at Meadow Park in Big Bear Lake to discuss the final design detail regarding Paradise Park. The meeting is open to the public.

BBARWA Monthly Meeting Today
The Big Bear Area Regional Wastewater Agency will hold their regular monthly meeting today at 4:30pm, at their offices located at 121 Palomino Drive in Big Bear City. The agency will hold a second reading for adoption of an ordinance to increase the current fee schedule for the disposal of waste delivered to the regional treatment plant. Also on the agenda, in new business, is discussion of treatment plant upgrades and an informational meeting of the Ad-Hoc Water Committee. In addition, BBARWA will recognize employee Francis Hobbs for 15 years of service and Drew Ryan for five years of service to the agency. This meeting is also open to the public.

Volunteers Needed for Big Bear's First Marathon
In continuing the momentum set by the Lighthouse Project and the Move a Million Miles for Ryan Hall campaign, in less than two weeks, Big Bear will be holding the first Big Bear Marathon, Half Marathon, Bike Tour and 5K on Saturday, September 6th. Volunteers are needed for a variety of different areas, from working at the expo, registration, the start/finish areas, aide stations, first aid and traffic control among others. If you can volunteer for the event, help is needed for Friday and Saturday, September 5th and 6th; contact Cheryl at 760/508-5736. If you have medical certification and can volunteer as a course medical aid, contact Heather at 909/289-0879. Volunteers will receive a t-shirt, food and the reward of working at Big Bear's first marathon!

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

The Bear in Beijing! KBHR's Rick Herrick joins local Olympian Ryan Hall, following his Olympic marathon
debut, in which Hall placed 10th overall in a field of over 90 runners. Hall says, "I want to thank you for
sharing in this journey. I have been truly blessed by you all."

News and Views from Rick Herrick, the Bear in Beijing: “Ryan Hall Olympian”
The 2008 Beijing China Olympics are over and it won't be until 2012 in London before the next games begin. This year was special in so many ways. It began on the 8th day of the 8th month of the 8th year of 2000. But for Big Bear these Olympics meant a lot more than just a clever date. We felt a special pride, excitement and love for our local Olympian Ryan Hall. Ryan trained for and ran a 2:12 marathon, which prior to the race and on any other Olympic year was indeed good enough to have earned him an Olympic podium spot. You say 10th in the world is not bad, but for a true Olympian like Ryan Hall it was a disappointing finish. Long before this marathon began it was noted that a winning time of two hours and six minutes was unattainable considering the Beijing air quality, high humidity and air temperature but that indeed was the winning time. In fact it set an Olympic record and earned, for the first time, a marathon gold medal for Kenya. Ryan told me one of his post Olympic missions was to help the people of Africa and I believe that mission for him is now clearer than ever; God does work in many different and interesting ways. Ryan Hall is the epitome of grace under pressure; he is an American icon for speed, strength, endurance and faith. I look forward to other Ryan Hall marathon runs between now and the 2012 Olympics in London, where I'm sure he'll run again. Ryan Hall and the Lighthouse Project, without doubt, excited and inspired many many people in Big Bear and, yes, a lot more across the country and possibly around the world. So what do we do now? The answer is easy: let's keep the momentum going and keep moving for Ryan Hall. It's a great life lesson--“Just Keep Moving”--and remember when you hear or see the phrase “Run Ryan Run” to take a moment to think what that phrase means to you and how it inspired us all.

Monday, August 25, 2008

Big Bear Lake City Council Meets Tonight; Presentation on Rate Increase by Bear Valley Electric
The City Council of Big Bear Lake meets for the regular meeting at 6:30pm this evening, in Hofert Hall. This evening's meeting will include a presentation by Bear Valley Electric Service, on their proposed 22.7 percent rate increase for electric service within the Big Bear Valley, which is scheduled for a decision by the California Public Utilities Commission in June of 2009. For those customers who wish to file comment on the electricity rate increase, the filing period expires this Friday, August 29. 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. (More information on the rate increase is posted in our 2008 Archive, on July 30.)

Ryan Hall Comments On His Olympic Performance
As all of Big Bear Valley must know by now, Ryan Hall made his Olympic debut in the August 24 Olympic marathon in Beijing, competing in only his fourth marathon ever. The 25-year-old runner ran the 26.2 mile race placing an impressive 10th at 2:12:33 in the Olympic marathon. According to a post-Olympic conversation with Rick Herrick, the “Bear in Beijing”, Ryan said he was disappointed and didn't do his best but he gave it his all. Alongside Ryan, his mother Susie replied how could he be dissapointed at being the 10th fastest marathoner in the world. A sentiment echoed here in the Big Bear Valley as Ryan Hall continues to make us proud. Ryan's future plans include attending the Chicago marathon with wife Sara, on behalf of Team World Vision, on October 12.

Suspects Booked on Felony Charges of Marijuana Possession
According to the Big Bear Sheriffs Department, last Friday, August 22, at 2pm, deputies served a search warrant in the 600 block of Kern Ave in Sugarloaf to investigate a report of possession of stolen property as well as narcotics suspected in the residence. In the search stolen property in the amount of approximately $2500 was discovered and returned to the owner. Additionally, deputies seized several pounds of marijuana estimated at a street value of $20,000 and several thousands of dollars. Suspects Richard Andrew Simpson, 59 years old, and Kimberly Charles, 46 years old, were booked on felony charges of possession of marijuana for sale and possession of stolen property and are currently being held on $500,000 bail. Suspect Richard McCabe Simpson, 35 years old, is a parolee and was booked on felony charges of parole violation and possession of stolen property and is being held in lieu of $10,000 bail. Arraignment hearings for the three suspects are scheduled for Tuesday, August 26 at 12:30pm at the Big Bear Superior Court.

Sunday, August 24, 2008

Top Mettle: Ryan Hall Places 10th in His Olympic Marathon Debut! Next Stops: Spain, Chicago, Zambia
With his family including wife Sara with him in China, Ryan Hall made his Olympic debut in the August 24 Olympic marathon in Beijing--while, back home in Big Bear, red hats and cheers of “Run Ryan Run!” filled the packed Convention Center for the community viewing party to watch 2001 Big Bear High School graduate Hall compete in only his fourth marathon ever. Hall received much media coverage during the televised event, including a profile piece (which also featured dad and coach Mickey training with Ryan here in Big Bear), as the 25-year-old runner ran the 26.2 mile race, working his way up from 30something to 10 in a field of over 90 runners. Hall ultimately placed an impressive 10th at 2:12:33 in the Olympic marathon, just six minutes and a second behind gold medal winner Samuel Wansiru of Kenya, who set a new Olympic record with his time of 2:06:32. So what's next for Hall, now that he has realized his personal dream of competing in the Olympics? Prior to leaving for Beijing, Hall said that he plans to accompany his wife to a running competition in Spain before the two attend the Chicago marathon, on behalf of Team World Vision, on October 12. Though Ryan has said, “I really love my life and there's nothing I'd rather do than train hard and keep focused,” the Halls are planning an October visit to Zambia as well. There, they will participate in a community water project using proceeds from the Chicago marathon. Adds Hall, “Sara and I, our goal is to feed God's children.”


The Bear in Beijing! The final stretch of the 26.2 mile Olympic marathon course, with the finish
line (which Hall crossed 10th) inside the Birds Nest stadium.


The Bear in Beijing! Family of local Olympian Ryan Hall enjoy the Summer Olympic games, in anticipation of their brother-in-law's run in the Olympic marathon. Uncle Steve Royal and siblings of Hall's wife Sara, Ryan and Amy Bei, find the Bear in Beijing--thanks to the Run Ryan Run banner! Meanwhile, back in Big Bear on the day of Hall's race, community members sign the Run Ryan Run banner at the Convention Center.

Friday, August 22, 2008


Ryan Hall, joined by family, friends and members of the Big Bear High School cross-country team, waves
the Olympic flag during our community send-off on August 4.

Ryan Hall Readies for Olympic Marathon; Community Viewing Party at the Convention Center on Saturday
We've received word from Ryan Hall, who says that training for the Olympic marathon in Beijing has been going really well. The 25-year-old runner reports his days since arriving have been filled with training, icing, stretching and therapy as he prepares for Sunday morning's marathon race which, again, airs in Big Bear on Saturday, with NBC television coverage on the Olympic marathon starting at 6:30pm. The community viewing party to cheer on our local Olympian takes place at the Big Bear Convention Center, and doors open at 2pm for the free event, which will also include children's activities, live entertainment, and food and drinks for purchase. All proceeds from this event on Saturday afternoon will benefit the Big Bear High School athletics department, so there's one more reason to join your friends and neighbors to cheer “run Ryan run!” And while watching coverage of the Olympic marathon, be sure to look for the Run Ryan Run banners, including the million mile one that the Lighthouse Project presented to Hall during the August 4 community send-off, which has since been signed by members of our community and traveled to Beijing with Hall's parents Mickey and Susie. (For more on Ryan Hall, scroll down to postings of August 21, August 15, August 8, August 6, August 5 and August 4.)


The Bear in Beijing! KBHR's Rick Herrick will be bringing you live updates on the Summer Olympics
from Beijing--so be sure to keep your radio tuned to KBHR 93.3 FM through the weekend.

Park Committees Review Paradise Park Design; No Mitigation Measures Needed for Endangered Species
The park sub-committees of the Big Bear Valley Recreation and Park District and the Big Bear City Community Services District met this week, to review the near-final design for Paradise Park, which will be developed on CSD's Paradise Way property in Big Bear City. Some revisions to the design were suggested, including the use of more drought-tolerant plants, and the use of wood chips instead of grass, particularly for some difficult-to-manage areas of the park landscape. These ideas have been submitted to designers Copley Design of San Diego, who will present another draft of the park layout for the next meeting of the sub-committees, scheduled for Wednesday, August 27 at 10am at the Park District offices. Since the meeting of August 19, the Recreation and Park District has received results of the rare plant survey, conducted by environmental consultants ECORP Consulting, Inc. of Redlands. Their findings indicate that “no state or federally-listed plant species were observed during surveys of the proposed project area”--though two sensitive plant species (the Big Bear Valley milk-vetch and the Bear Valley linanthus) were found. Yet the ECORP report further indicates that “no mitigation measures are necessary for the plant species observed in Spring 2008.”

Safety Project Planned for Big Bear City Portion of Highway 18; Implementation Still Two Years Out
The CalTrans safety project being initiated on the portion of Highway 18 just east of Dead Man's Curve in Big Bear City is at least two years away from implementation, though community input was sought at this week's public meeting, which CalTrans held at the BBARWA facility on Wednesday. The half-mile or so section of roadway, from Pinon Drive to Blue Water Drive on Highway 18, or Big Bear Boulevard, had a 60% higher-than-average statewide accident rate for comparable highways, given the 22 accidents in this section of Big Bear City from January 2004 through September 2007. So, CalTrans Engineer Haissam Yahya told those at the public meeting, “We're trying to make it safer for you.” The safety project will include an eight foot shoulder on the north side of the highway, from about 150 feet west of Pinon Drive west to Blue Water and including the portion of roadway at Big Tree Drive, the street that provides access to the Big Bear Airport. The highway will also include left-hand turn pockets at Big Tree. The upgraded intersection will also allow for improved and safer access for large trucks, as well as improved drainage at the intersection. The widened shoulder will not have sidewalks, but will allow for safer and easier passage for pedestrians and cyclists. These features, notes Yahya, “should reduce the number of accidents at this location.” Before the project gets underway, he adds, “We'll be working with each property owner individually to make sure we don't impact their business.” In the meantime, an environmental review will be done, and the right-of-way will need to be acquired. Once the approximately $850,000 project begins, in roughly two to two-and-half years, construction should take 120-150 working days (depending on the weather). CalTrans expects that the road will be open during this time, though there may be flagging--but, again, this won't happen until at least 2010. Though who wish to submit comment on the project have until September 20 to do so, by calling CalTrans at 388-7516 or via email to Ramaiyer_Sainath@dot.ca.gov.

The Bear in Beijing! The Bear was there when America's Men's Beach Volleyball Team of Phil Dalhausser and Todd Rogers
won the gold medal over Brazil in a 23-21, 17-21, 15-4 final match. You can right click on any of these photos for a larger version.

Repaving Work Completed on North Shore; Alpine Pedal Path and Juniper Point Re-opened for Weekend
The San Bernardino National Forest recreation areas on the North Shore are re-opening today. Asphalt work on the Alpine Pedal Path and Juniper Point parking area was completed yesterday, and these areas are open to the public as of this morning. The Meadows Edge picnic area, also on the North Shore, will re-open to the public as of noon today, per the Forest Service.

As of September, Baldwin Lake Volunteer Fire Department (Now Station #97) Will Be Assisting County Fire
The San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors did approve the formation application submitted by the Baldwin Lake Volunteer Fire Department, to provide fire protection, medical aid and rescue services to the community of Baldwin Lake, yet under the jurisdiction of the San Bernardino County Fire Department. Dan Wurl, Deputy Chief with County Fire, tells KBHR that the fire department has “embraced the enthusiasm” of the 30plus volunteers from Baldwin Lake. Wurl tells KBHR that over the past year or so, County Fire has been working with the Baldwin Lake Volunteer Fire Department, and they have had numerous meetings regarding training, command, jurisdictional responsibilities, dispatching, even uniforms. These meetings have also included the U.S. Forest Service and the Community Services District, which oversees the Big Bear City Fire Department. “Now,” says Wurl, “we're making sure they're able to legally provide emergency medical services, getting the Baldwin Lake Volunteer Fire Department authorized by the Inland Counties Medical Authority, and getting them pagers and radios, so we can start dispatching them as early as the first week in September.” Before Baldwin Fire Station #97 (their new number) will service the Baldwin Lake community (and extending to Cactus Flats Road), Wurl assures, “They have to train to our standards. We have 60some fire stations overseen by County Fire, and a lot of them were formed in this way. County Fire will maintain jurisdictional repsonsibility, so the Baldwin Lake Volunteer Fire Department will be in addition to normal responding crews.” The Baldwin Lake crew will continue to serve as volunteers, not employees of County Fire. Adds Wurl on behalf of County Fire, “We've had a very positive response from the group, and we're excited.” (Background on the Baldwin Lake Volunteer Fire Department posted on August 12 and June 9.)

Thursday, August 21, 2008

Run Ryan Run: Olympian Hall Is Ready to Run and Says to Big Bear, "Know I'll Be Thinking of You"
Ryan Hall's Olympic marathon race is in just two days, and the 25-year-old Big Bear High School grad says he is ready to run. In a conversation with KBHR prior to his trip to Beijing, China, Hall told us, “I've done all the work and put in the miles. I'm feeling healthy and fit.” Hall will also rely on his faith, as he has since he received a calling at age 14, which resulted in a run around the lake with dad Mickey and his life focus on running. “I know the Lord has really prepared me for this,” Hall says. “I knew from that first run around Big Bear Lake, that it wasn't just about me. I can remember very well, sitting in class thinking ‘I'm the only one who wants to compete at the international level'--so maybe I've shown some kids that you can dream big, and your dreams can come true. My job is to get to the starting line, confident and fit. The Olympics is a huge opportunity for me to shine on the worldwide stage. I feel a certain amount of obligation to the other runners who were in the trials, and I've trained really hard.” It was Hall's 2:09:02 Olympic trials marathon and his 2:06:17 run in the 2008 London Marathon that has earned Hall the title of the fastest American-born marathon runner ever—and you can watch him run again this Saturday. Though the Olympic marathon is on Sunday in Beijing, here in California it will air on NBC television on Saturday. Coverage is scheduled to begin at 6:30pm Saturday on Channel 4 (airing live Eastern Time, but not so here), and all are invited to share in the free community viewing party, which takes place at the Big Bear Convention Center (doors open at 2pm). And while Hall takes the next two days to ready for his Olympic debut, we still have two days to log our miles for the Move a Million Miles for Ryan Hall campaign. As a community, we've already achieved our million-mile goal, but we're so close to one million, five hundred thousand, let's go for it! (You can use the link at the top of this page to log your miles.) As Hall said during the August 4 community send-off, “Each of you will be in my heart while I'm out there running. When you're watching TV, know I'll be thinking of you.”


The Bear in Beijing: KBHR's Rick Herrick reports that it has been raining heavily in China (specifically here outside the Birds Nest),
but it is anticipated that the clouds will clear for Sunday morning's Olympic marathon (which airs in California on Saturday).

A Potential "Win-Win for Everyone": CSD and DWP to Investigate Blending of Existing Water Sources
During the Supervisor Reports portion of the meeting of the Big Bear City Community Services District, Water Department Superintendent Tim Moran reported that progress continues on the district's new Well #8 blendline. One hundred percent of the pipeline is installed, as of the August 18 update, and fire hydrants are being hooked up this week. Says Moran, “We anticipate the Well #8 blendline to be in service right after Labor Day.” Per CSD's General Manager Mike Mayer, this puts the project ahead of schedule. In other potential blendline news, Moran presented a blendline idea, which was shared with the Department of Water and Power's Chairman Steve Foulkes and interim General Manager Bill LaHaye during their August 6 meeting with CSD. The proposed project would combine the high-flouride water from CSD's Well 3B in Big Bear City (which pumps water at 1000 gallons per minute) with the DWP's Magnolia test well in Sugarloaf, which has a “non-detect” fluoride level (and is said to pump up to 300 gallons per minute). To potentially blend the water from the two wells would increase the water supply for both agencies and, per Mayer, “Well 3B wouldn't be available to us without the opportunity to blend, and this would cost less than developing a new water source. The cost would be shared by both agencies.” Though it was reiterated that further study on the feasibility of the project would be needed, CSD President Rick Ollila said, “Everybody walked away pleased with the concept—which is just a concept, but a win-win for everyone.”

Third Mountain Marijuana Bust in As Many Weeks: Four Arrested for Cultivation in Sugarloaf Yesterday
The marijuana cultivation arrests continue, as San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department deputies from the Big Bear Sheriff's Station made four arrests in Sugarloaf yesterday. The four individuals arrested—one female and three males, all ages 20 to 23 years old--were booked on felony charges of cultivation. Per the statement issued by the Big Bear Sheriff's Station today: “Investigation by the Big Bear Sheriff's Station resulted in probable cause and a search warrant being issued for a residence in the 700 block of Kern Avenue in Sugarloaf. The warrant was served shortly after 8am yesterday morning. As a result of the search warrant, deputies seized 93 marijuana plants, grow equipment, and paraphernalia. Additionally, a small amount of suspected Psilocybin (hallucinogen mushrooms) was located in the residence. Suspects Courtney Sulfridge, Andrew Ward, John Macias and Derrick Del-Pozo were arrested and booked on felony charges of cultivation. Suspect Macias was additionally booked on felony charges for possession of a controlled substance. All four suspects are being detained at the Big Bear Jail in lieu of $10,000 bail each. Arraignment hearings are set for Friday, August 22, at the Big Bear Superior Court. The eradication of the substantial indoor grow by the Big Bear Sheriff's Station deputies has prevented drug sales in the estimated potential amount of $325,000.”

Mandatory Fall Sports Meeting for Parents of Big Bear High School Athletes This Evening
For parents of Big Bear High School athletes, there is a mandatory fall sports meeting at the high school this evening. All BBHS students participating in football, volleyball, cross-country, girls golf, tennis and cheer need to attend this evening's 6:30pm meeting, which will take place in the BBHS gym and is expected to last an hour-and-a-half.

Municipal Water District's Board Will Consider Proposal for Dam Engineering Services at Today's Meeting
The Board of Directors of the Big Bear Municipal Water District convene for their second meeting of the month this afternoon at 1pm, at their offices at 40524 Lakeview Drive in Big Bear Lake. Today's Business Items include Board consideration of a $75,000 proposal from MWH Americas Inc. for engineering services at the Big Bear Dam. Engineering services would include underwater crack mapping, review of structural survey program for conformance with the Division of Safety of Dams, evaluation of dam face resurfacing, and related engineering services on an as-needed basis. The MWD may next month consider a separate contract with MWH, with regard to the removal and design of a replacement for the existing highway bridge on the dam, as the district needs to be sure that all costs associated with a dam bridge replacement are captured for purposes of negotiating a cost-sharing agreement with CalTrans.

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

The Historical Museum, featuring the blacksmith shop (manned by volunteers Don Schaub and
Arizona Al) is open today, and each Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday through October, as
well as Labor Day. For more information on the museum or the Big Bear Valley Historical Society,
visit bigbearhistory.org.

Flagging, Minimal Delays Can Be Expected on Highway 18, Toward Lucerne, Both Thursday and Monday
CalTrans has planned a paving project for Highway 18, on a portion of the roadway near Lucerne at State Route 247, tomorrow. This one-day project will result in flagging and minimal delays, so those traveling eastbound on Highway 18, off the mountain, are advised to allow extra time. The roadwork for Thursday is scheduled for 8am to 4pm. Additional paving work is scheduled for Highway 18, on a stretch of road near Cushenberry Creek, on Monday. Flagging and minimal delays can be expected on this portion of Highway 18 from 8am to 4pm on Monday.

New Flood Maps Effective Next Thursday; FEMA Recommends Insurance Purchase Prior to August 28
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency—or FEMA—last month delivered Flood Insurance Studies and Flood Insurance Rate Maps to local officials in San Bernardino County, and these new maps will be effective August 28. These flood studies and maps identify the floodplains for a 100-year flood event. When finalized, the two reports determine the level of flood risk and flood insurance premiums paid by property owners, renters and businesses. As noted here in July, FEMA suggests that citizens and property owners contact their local flood plain administrator to determine if the new map affects their property. If the property is impacted, FEMA recommends immediate contact with an insurance agent to purchase a flood insurance policy prior to next Thursday, August 28. The purchase of flood insurance prior to this date will allow property owners to take advantage of affordable insurance rates. For the Big Bear Valley, FEMA directs those outside of the City of Big Bear Lake and within the County's jurisdiction to call 387-8213 for the local flood plain administrator; for those who reside within the City of Big Bear Lake, calls can be directed to 866-5831, then ask for the City's Engineering Department.

While Olympian Ryan Hall was being celebrated with a community send-off,
the parents of fellow Big Bear High School graduate Jared Landaker were
headed to Tennessee to partake in another run, to honor fallen servicemen.

In Conjunction With Run for the Fallen, 1st Lt. Landaker's Parents Honor Their 'Seven Stars' in Tennessee
In June, runners on behalf of the Run for the Fallen made their way through Big Bear (including the Highway 38 stretch of the 1st Lieutenant Jared Landaker Memorial Highway) as part of a cross-county run to honor those servicemen and women who lost their lives in Iraq. The 4,000 mile run started in California's Fort Irwin on Flag Day and will cover 13 states before culminating at Arlington National Cemetery on Sunday. As runners stopped at each mile to place a flag and personalized sign card in honor of each fallen member of the military, Landaker's father Joe spent his Father's Day with the runners, including Run for the Fallen organizer Jon Bellona--and since that special visit, Joe and wife Laura made the trip to Tennessee, to be there for the placement of son Jared's flag (pictured above), and those of the six military crew members who died with him when their helicopter was shot down in Iraq on February 7, 2007. Laura tells KBHR, “We had a wonderful experience in Noah, Tennessee, where the seven crew members were honored. Joe and I ran Jared's mile and walked the remaining six.” In addition to reconnecting with the Run for the Fallen runners, as well as Bellona's parents, Laura adds, “A gentleman drove 700 miles from Missouri to hand me three roses for the dedication, and a donation for the Seven Stars Foundation. Another man, a former Marine who had read the article in USA Today, came and walked with us—he was over 6'8” and 70 years old, and gave me a Marine Corps flag to take on the trek. We were so honored and humbled by this experience.” For more on the Seven Stars Foundation, including a link to Run for the Fallen and sign-up information for the 1st Lieutenant Jared Landaker Memorial Run for Freedom in Big Bear on September 27, visit SevenStarsFoundation.com. (For more information on the Run for the Fallen, see our stories posted on June 17 and June 13.)

School Board Meets for Workshop; Superintendent Performance Review Agendized for Closed Session
The Board of Trustees of the Bear Valley Unified School District meet for a Board Workshop at the school district offices, at 42271 Moonridge Road, this evening at 6:15pm. The closed session portion of this evening's meeting will include review of Bear Valley Education Association negotiations and public employee performance evaluation for Superintendent Carole Ferraud.


The Bear goes to Beijing! Keep it tuned to KBHR at 93.3 FM for news from the Summer Olympics, including details on Big Bear marathon runner Ryan Hall, the fastest American-born marathon runner ever.

The Bear Goes to Beijing for Local Olympics Coverage; KBHR Taking Pledges in Support of BBHS Track
The Bear, as in KBHR, is headed to Beijing, in order to bring you all the exciting news from the final week of the Summer Olympics in China, including highlights from Ryan Hall's run in the Olympic marathon, which airs this Saturday on NBC Channel 4, with coverage starting at 6:30pm. In support of our local runners, such as 2001 Big Bear High School graduate Hall, the KBHR team is this week taking pledges on behalf of the Rotary Club of Big Bear Lake Foundation to raise funds for the Big Bear High School track project, which would ultimately provide a better high-altitude training facility for our athletes and residents. If you would like to make a pledge in support of a future track at BBHS, call us at KBHR at 909/584-5247—supporters will be thanked on the air at 93.3 FM. (For recent stories and photos of Ryan Hall, scroll down to postings of August 15, August 8, August 6, August 5 and August 4.)

CSD's Habitat Management Plan in Federal Register; U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Allows Use of Land
The Pan Hot Springs Meadow Habitat Management Plan efforts of the Big Bear City Community Services District have resulted in kudos from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and a final ruling on the property just east of Paradise Way, as of the August 14 edition of the Federal Register. As read from the Register by CSD's General Manager Mike Mayer at the August 18 CSD meeting, “The BBCCSD has worked cooperatively as a partner with the Service for more than 18 years. Their previous conservation efforts include: placing a deed restriction over 10 acres of their lands, limited grazing on their lands, conducting extensive plant surveys throughout their property at Pan Hot Springs Meadow, drafting the HMP and revising the HMP per Service comments, addressing the management of all five federally listed species on their property within the HMP, meeting and partnering with the adjacent private landowner who owns the water rights to Pan Hot Spring, and meeting with the San Manuel Band of Serrano Mission Indians to identify and address their cultural interest in the area.” Moving forward, CSD will now continue with the restricted covenant area to protect roughly 40 acres on their land (which includes the San Bernardino Bluegrass and the California Dandelion), and will be allowed to utilize the remaining 90 or so acres for other uses. When this was noted at the CSD meeting, Director Marge McDonald asked, “Does this mean we can put a ballfield out there now?” According to Mayer, “It means we can certainly consider it.” (Background on the Pan Hot Springs Meadow Habitat Management Plan posted on July 10.)

Planning Commission Meets This Afternoon; Community Family Fun Night Application to Be Considered
The Planning Commission of the City of Big Bear Lake meets in Hofert Hall at 1:15pm this afternoon. Public Hearing Items on the agenda include the major special event application, submitted by Bear Valley Healthy Start, to hold the annual Community Family Fun Night in the Bartlett parking lot in the Village on September 15. The newsrack ordinance for the City of Big Bear Lake is not on today's agenda of the Planning Commission.


The Big Bear City Fire Department's C shift, as represented here by Acting Captain Tony Huefner,
Engineer Greg Robinson and Firefighter/Paramedic Ricky Seward, were honored with their third
Quarter Safety Award from the Board of Directors of the Big Bear City Community Services
District. For more on the department, see story posted August 19.

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

Department of Water and Power Commissioners Have Narrowed General Manager Candidate List to Three
During a closed session special meeting of the Board of Commissioners of the Department of Water and Power, Commissioners were actually interviewing the final candidates for the agency's General Manager position. DWP Chairman Steve Foulkes tells KBHR, “We had three very qualified candidates, and now we are continuing with background checks. I am very optimistic that we'll select one of those three.” Foulkes notes that each candidate has a lot of water experience, and none of them currently reside in Big Bear. The next step in the hiring process will come with a closed session meeting with DWP's recruiter, scheduled for September 5, during which time the recruiter will have a report, including information culled from candidates' background checks. The Board of Commissioners will then make their selection and negotiate the contract for the new GM. Adds Foulkes, “I hope this will go fairly quickly.”

Regional Traffic Advisory Committee Meets Wednesday Morning at Big Bear Chamber of Commerce
The Big Bear Chamber of Commerce hosts the monthly meeting of the Regional Traffic Advisory Committee tomorrow, Wednesday, at 9:30am. The RTAC meeting takes place at the Chamber offices, located at 630 Bartlett Road in the Village.

CalTrans Holds Public Meeting Tomorrow to Review Safety Project for Big Bear City Portion of Highway 18
On Wednesday evening, CalTrans hosts a public information meeting, to review the widening project for Highway 18. The proposed safety project will cover the Big Bear City portion of Highway 18, or Big Bear Boulevard, from Blue Water Drive to Pinon Drive, and will include a left-hand turn lane at Big Tree Drive, the street that provides access to the Big Bear Airport. Public comment will be welcome at tomorrow's CalTrans meeting, which begins at 6pm at the Big Bear Area Regional Wastewater Agency, at 121 Palomino Drive in Big Bear City.


Firefighters with the BBC Fire Department are recognized at last night's CSD meeting, before Director Marge McDonald is presented with a birthday cake, which prompted her to joke, "If they put 87 candles in here, we need the fire department!"

Big Bear City Firefighters Commended; CSD Maintains Paid-Call Firefighter Policy, With Revisions
The firefighters of the Big Bear City Fire Department took center stage at last night's meeting of the Board of Directors of the Big Bear City Community Services District. The meeting began with CSD recognition to the fire department's C shift, as represented by firefighters Tony Huefner, Greg Robinson and Ricky Seward, as they received the agency's 2008 Second Quarter Safety Award, the third bestowed upon the group. Big Bear City Fire Chief Jeff Willis, on behalf of the San Bernardino County Fire Chiefs Association, also presented each member of the department with the special Meritous Service Ribbon for the Slide and Grass Valley Fires, which they battled in October of last year. Given the unanimous Board approval of the Consent Calendar, the continuation of Longevity Pay will be granted to firefighters, per the 2006 Memorandum of Understanding between CSD and the Big Bear City Professional Firefighters Association—beginning in the twentieth year of service to the fire department, a five percent longevity pay increase will carry over to the pay scale on future promotions. And though the bulk of the Big Bear City Fire Department had been present for the August 18 CSD meeting, none of them addressed the Board when the revision to CSD's Personnel Management and Procedures Manual ordinance #186, outlining the paid-call firefighter policy, was discussed. Per CSD's General Manager Mike Mayer, the negotiation process, with regard to the revisions, included the San Bernardino Public Employees Association's Labor Representative Stacey Cue, Fire Chief Willis, CSD's Human Resource Manager Kathie LaHaye, and CSD Employees Association President Becky Wallace. As work within other CSD departments had been affected by the policy allowing for paid-call firefighter duty, the new ordinance revisions, as unanimously adopted by the Board, include the provision that paid-call firefighters must request permission from their superintendent or foreman before responding to a call and, if acting as a CSD supervisor, they will not respond. The other change to the policy dictates that district employees responding to a call during working hours shall have their paid-call firefighter pay augmented by the district to equal their regular district salary, rather than receiving regular pay in addition to volunteer fire pay. (Background on this matter is posted in our story on July 8, in the 2008 News Archive.)

Fawnskin's Miller Park, Complete With Upgrades, Site of Rec & Park Meeting, Paradise Park Workshop
Following the first-ever Fawnskin Town Hall meeting in June, the Friends of Fawnskin sent a letter to the Big Bear Valley Recreation and Park District, asking why funds were not directed to Miller Park, the Fawnskin park at 1178 Chickasaw that includes the log building from the 1930s. Reese Troublefield, Director of Rec and Park, responded to the Friends of Fawnskin inquiry, and outlined those upgrades to Miller Park, completed in the last two years, which include: parking lot and basketball court paving, retaining walls to playground area and basketball court, installation of new basketball pole and hoop, basketball court striping, tennis court resurfacing, restroom renovation, new blinds, and the addition of new microwaves and a refrigerator. In addition, Troublefield noted, “The playground was renovated eight years ago, and is still in very good condition, the park grass is well maintained as always, and ADA access has been improved to the building as well.” Attendees to this afternoon's meeting of the Advisory Commission of the Recreation and Park District will be able to view these upgrades first-hand, as the 5pm meeting will be held at Miller Park (rather than at the Senior Center). This meeting will be preceded by the 4pm workshop of the Paradise Park subcommittees, which include members of the Big Bear City Community Services District.

U.S. Forest Service Statement Says That Forest Land Planted With Marijuana Is Damaged Ten-Fold
Over the past week, personnel from the U. S. Forest Service have partnered with agents from federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to eradicate marijuana grows within the San Bernardino National Forest. Agents from the Bureau of Land Management, the Drug Enforcement Administration, San Bernardino and Riverside County Sheriff's Departments, the California Department of Justice Campaign Against Marijuana Planting (or CAMP), along with the U.S. Forest Service, have seized plants valued at approximately $20 million on the San Bernardino National Forest, from locations including the Bear Creek drainage (west of Big Bear Lake) and the Grass Valley drainage (northwest of Lake Arrowhead), as well as the removal of plants from the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains. The seven individuals arrested thus far (five resulting from the Bear Creek grow, two at the Grass Valley drainage) are, per the Forest Service, being charged with 'cultivation of marijuana in excess of 1000 plants' and 'conspiracy to cultivate'; the two arrested Wednesday at the Grass Valley drainage had additional charges of 'carrying a firearm unlawfully during the commission of a felony.' Per a statement from the U.S. Forest Service, “Illegal marijuana grow operations jeopardize the fragile ecosystems of the forests. For every acre of forest planted with marijuana, ten acres are damaged. The human footprint on pristine forest land at a large-scale marijuana grow site can leave behind several tons of garbage, biohazard refuse, and toxic waste. Erosion is also a problem, as small streams and other water sources are diverted for irrigating the marijuana fields and the land is compacted.”

County Supervisors to Address Rec & Park Commissioner, Ballot Results for Baldwin Lake Roads
The Board of Supervisors of San Bernardino County meets this morning at 10am at the County Government Center in San Bernardino. Today's meeting is scheduled to include the appointment of Gloria Rose to the Advisory Commission of the Big Bear Valley Recreation and Park District, as recommended by Third District Supervisor Dennis Hansberger. The appointment would fill the unexpired term of Commissioner Cheryl Shipe, who represented the Erwin Lake and Lake Williams areas, through January 31, 2012. Gloria Rose, a mother of three, is an Erwin Lake homeowner and an escrow officer with Realty Executives. Today's meeting also includes consideration of a $10,000 allocation from the Priority Policy Needs budget to the Big Bear Cowboy Gathering. The financial assistance to the Cowboy Gathering would allow the charitable organization to further the culture and history of the southwest and Big Bear Valley, as well as supporting education through the group's community programs, projects, interactive workshops and scholarship fund. And, also pertaining to the Big Bear Valley, today's County Supervisor meeting will include the June ballot results for County Service Area 70, in Baldwin Lake, to determine if an additional $238 per parcel fee to provide road grading, asphalt maintenance and snow removal services within this unincorporated area of the County would be added to the current $50 per parcel service charge, which is said to be insufficient in providing road service.


This weekend's Art on the Lake, hosted by the Arts Council of Big Bear Valley, featured the work
of 50 artists, including local ceramicists George and Terry Carver (whose work is displayed here).
For the names of local students from the Young Artists Gallery whose artwork was awarded ribbons,
scroll down to our story posted on August 18.

Monday, August 18, 2008

County Registrar Posts Official Candidate List: 35 Candidates Will Run for 15 Seats on Six Local Boards
The San Bernardino County Registrar of Voters has posted the official candidate list for the upcoming November 4 Presidential General Election. For the two seats on the City Council of Big Bear Lake, the four candidates are incumbents Liz Harris and Bill Jahn, Bill LoPresti,and Barbara Willey. For the three seats on the Board of Trustees for the Bear Valley Unified School District, the seven candidates are Sharon Congdon, David Foltz, Beverly Grabe, Jim “Mac” McGowan, Randall Putz, Richard Weathersbee, and Paul Zamoyta. For the three seats on the Board of Directors of the Big Bear Airport District, the eight candidates are Ken Dally, Bill Douglass, Gloria Ann Greene, Chuck Knight, Julie Smith, Edward Stanik, incumbent Gary Steube, and Lynn Wilson. For the two seats on the Board of Directors of the Big Bear City Community Services District, the six candidates are Barbara Beck, Daniel Joseph Brown, incumbent Bob Colven, Rick Nelson, incumbent Rick Ollila, and John Russo. For the three seats on the Board of Directors of the Bear Valley Community Healthcare District, the eight candidates are Dennis Carden, incumbent Chris Fagan, Michael Hartstein, Ed Kibbey, incumbent Carol Mulivhill, incumbent Ron Peavy, Brad Summers, and Randy Vanos. For the two seats, one each for Divisions 4 and 5, on the Board of Directors of the Big Bear Municipal Water District, incuments John Eminger and Vince Smith will run unopposed in the November election.

Investigation Into Marijuana Grow on San Bernardino National Forest Continues; 30,000 Plants Recovered
The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department has released additional information regarding Thursday's investigation into a marijuana grow in the Bear Creek drainage area, off Highway 18 and within the San Bernardino National Forest. Per the statement issued Friday evening: “On Thursday, August 14, investigators with the Sheriff's Marijuana Eradication Team and Drug Enforcement Agency were conducting surveillance in the San Bernardino National Forest when they observed several suspects in the grow area. The investigators took five suspects into custody and several other suspects fled the area on foot. The marijuana grow was located over several mountain ranges in treacherous terrain. It consists of approximately 40 acres of grow area and more than 30,000 marijuana plants were recovered. Due to the conditions, the investigation continued through Friday, August 15. All of the suspects are being held without bail at Sheriff's Central Detention Center in San Bernardino. The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to call the Sheriff's Narcotic Division at 890-4840, or remain anonymous and contact We Tip at 800-78-CRIME (782-7463).”

Award-Winning Student Artwork from Art on the Lake to Be Featured at The Gallery in the Village
The Arts Council of Big Bear Valley awarded ribbons and cash prizes to 12 local students, whose artwork was featured in the Young Artists Gallery during this weekend's ninth annual Art on the Lake. Those who received top honors in the four age group categories are, for kindergarten through second grade, Luzy Uribe, Cameron Evans (picture, above center) and Katelynn Azevedo; for third through sixth grade, Ilora Booth, Mandy Garvin and Garrett Evans; for seventh and eighth grade, Katie Adams (picture, above right), Laurel Bowling and Tara Hubbard; and for ninth through twelfth grade, Lindsay Hafen (picture, above left), Melissa Doss and Katie Hoover. The award-winning artwork of these students will be on display at the Gallery of the Arts Council, which is in the Village, by week's end.

Parents Will Follow Student's Schedule at Tonight's Big Bear High School Back to School Night at 6:30pm
Back to School Night for parents of Big Bear High School students will be held this evening, and begins at 6:30pm in the BBHS gym. Parents will follow their student's schedule during the course of the evening, and for those whose children have a 7th period class at BBHS, the Back to School Night tour should conclude at 8:42pm.

MOM Project Expands Services to Include Dad Classes, and Programs for Parents of Children to 18 Years
The MOM Project (MOM meaning Mothers on the Mountain) has not only moved to a new location, but has expanded their services to better assist parents in the Big Bear Valley. The new facility, at 1221 East Big Bear Boulevard at Highway 38, is also home to new programs, including classes offered just for dads. Says Director Marilyn Vecchio, “The MOM Project has been doing really well and, with the advent of the Dad Project, we've been busier. The Dad Project is specifically serving men with classes such as Nurturing Dad, which is a real dynamic class, and Daddy and Me, which has been really well attended also. We're helping to turn good dads into great dads.” Vecchio, who oversees the free programs with a staff of three, as well as some volunteers, says that though the clinic is a department of the Bear Valley Community Healthcare District, they are 100% grant and donation funded. However, given some additional grant funding, Vecchio tells KBHR, “We are no longer just for parents of children zero to five. We've received a couple new grants that enable us to serve families with children zero to 18. With the new grants, we have some new classes focusing on older kids, such as Parent/Child Study Skills. Using love and logic, we have a credentialed teacher helping parents to help their kids achieve better in school. Our philosophy is to focus on parents, so parents can help their kids all the time.” Though the MOM Project has expanded their services to accommodate fathers, and families of children up to 18, they still offer their core programs, such as Mommy and Me, childbirth and pregnancy classes. The new location, which Vecchio says is a “beautiful, new facility,” also includes a library and a number of resources for families. Adds Vecchio, “We have a case manager available to help with anything that has to do with kids.” So, if you've kids, the MOM Project invites you to visit their facility for free classes, information or resources. They plan to have their new website established soon--until then you can also call at 585-5607.

Community Services District Meets at 5:30pm; Agency's Paid-Call Firefighter Policy to Be Discussed
The Board of Directors of the Big Bear City Community Services District meets for their first meeting of the month this evening, as their August 4 meeting had been adjourned in support of the community send-off for Olympian Ryan Hall. This evening's 5:30pm meeting, to be held at the CSD offices at 139 E. Big Bear Boulevard, will resume the discussion on the agency's paid-call firefighter policy, and is scheduled to include an update on the water meeting with the Department of Water and Power.



Friday, August 15, 2008

Activity Off Arctic Circle Results in Five Federal Felony Arrests, and Seizure of 10,000 Marijuana Plants
Yesterday's law enforcement activity, including helicopters, along Arctic Circle on Highway 18 did result in arrests for marijuana cultivation. The marijuana grow was found on the south side of Highway 18 in the Bear Creek drainage, roughly half-way between the Big Bear Dam and Lakeview Point near Glory Ridge. The plant count was in excess of 10,000 marijuana plants, and resulted in [revised information] five federal felony arrests for marijuana cultivation. The joint effort by law enforcement agencies included personnel from the U.S. Forest Service, the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department, and the Campaign Against Marijuana Planting, or CAMP, which is a multi-agency law enforcement task force managed by the Bureau of Narcotic Enforcement. There is no official word yet on whether the five individuals arrested have local ties, though all are currently being held in a federal detention facility. John Miller, with the U.S. Forest Service, says that typically, these marijuana grows are found via aerial surveillance, or from anonymous reports from the general public, though the source that led to the five felony arrests and eradication of the 10,000 marijuana plants will not be released. For their part, Miller says of the U.S. Forest Service's involvement in the incident, which was on the San Bernardino National Forest, “Our concern is environmental damage because of the amount of chemicals introduced to the water source, for the animals and native plants all the way down the stream—and this damage is long-term.” Miller tells KBHR that, on Wednesday, two federal felony arrests were also made in the Grass Valley drainage. In this area, just northwest of Lake Arrowhead (though not in the community of Grass Valley), 5,843 marijuana plants were found, resulting in the two arrests.

Proposed Upgrades to Boulder Bay Park Include Walking Paths, Dock, Native Wildflowers and Pavilion
The west entrance to the Big Bear Valley, specifically Boulder Bay, is another step closer to beautification and increased usability. The Master Plan for the Boulder Bay Park, as presented by Lacey Withers of Withers and Sandgren, has been approved by the City Council of Big Bear Lake, and city staff will now pursue grant opportunities to fund the $650,000 project. Major features of the Boulder Bay Park design include a fishing dock, a non-motorized boat ramp, a shade pavilion and view terrace, accessible shore entrances, picnic rocks and pathways, as well as wildflower drifts, drought-tolerant and native plants, and the addition of some trees—though, per Council suggestion, not at the expense of the views for Boulder Bay neighbors along Highway 18. Other agencies have also been consulted on the Boulder Bay Park project. City Engineer David Lawrence says, “The Department of Water and Power helped us to develop the initial concept with drought-tolerant plants.” Lawrence will also confer with the Municipal Water District, the agency that oversees the lake, about the feasibility of adding sand to the the shoreline; meanwhile, the U.S. Forest Service is involved, to assure that plants and flowers introduced to the landscape are not of an invasive species. Another detail in the Boulder Bay project, as prompted by at least one suggestion from Boulder Bay resident Bill LoPresti, is the repositioning of the large wooden 'greeter' bear which, designer Withers said at the August 11 Council meeting, “We're going to take the bear and move him to a more significant location.”


Local Olympian Hall, a 2001 Big Bear High School graduate, at Big Bear Lake

Community Invited to Sign the Million Miles Banner for Olympian Ryan Hall, Who Races in Eight Days
Though we as a community have achieved a million miles in support of Olympian Ryan Hall, the Lighthouse Project's campaign to move a million miles continues so, they say, keep logging and keep recruiting! The current mileage count, as of this morning, is 1,397,013, and the free, community spirit initiative culminates with Hall's run in the Olympic marathon, which is in just eight days. Those who have contributed to the campaign are welcome to sign the mileage banner, which was presented to Hall during the August 4 community send-off. To add your message for Ryan, simply stop by the Coldwell Banker offices on Big Bear Boulevard—it's the building with the giant Ryan Hall banner (and the nice flowers), just north of Fox Farm Road. Details on the free public viewing party for Hall's Olympic race, which airs on Saturday, August 23, are posted below, in a story on August 8.

The Government Fire, Near Seven Oaks Dam, Was Contained by USFS Crews in 6pm Hour Yesterday
The Government Fire, which we reported on yesterday, was fully contained in the 6pm hour, as expected, by firefighting crews of the San Bernardino National Forest. The fire, which had been reported just before 1pm on Thursday, burned a total of two-and-a-half acres in the area near Government Peak roughly two miles northwest of the Seven Oaks Dam. Though officials with the San Bernardino National Forest suggest that the fire was more than likely prompted by lighting, the investigation into the cause of the Government Fire continues.

Ed Stalcup (top row, far right) coached the Big Bear High School Ski Team of 1968, which included
(from top, left) Bill Lindsey, Jay Forbes, Larry Poland, Lark Hartwell, Steve Blauer, Bobby Fulton, Stalcup,
(middle row) Dave Dodd, Phil Schweitzer, Pam Thomas, Keith Gingerich, Michelle Thomas, Jeff Strategier,
(and front row) Greg Pike, Chuck Bronnimann, Debbie Hawks, Dave Huether, Shelley McGrath, Zane
Johnson and Kathie Hasher.

Ed Stalcup, a 34-Year BBHS Coach and English Teacher, to Be Celebrated in Tuesday Memorial Service
If you attended Big Bear High School between 1958 and 1992 and you can form a complete sentence, chances are you have Mr. Ed Stalcup to thank. Long the high school English and speech teacher—as well as coach of the golf, ski, volleyball and football teams, as well as having been the BBHS athletic director—Stalcup will be celebrated with a memorial service at Northwoods Resort on Tuesday at 4pm. The 60-year Big Bear Lake resident, who passed Monday morning (at age 78) at Desert Regional Hospital in Palm Springs as a result of a two-month bout with leukemia, was known to all students at Big Bear High School, including his own children with Charlene, his wife of 54 years: Kim, Kirk, Kris, Kent and Karl. In addition to coaching Big Bear students in grammar and sports, Stalcup was also a member of Los Vaqueros Riding Club and started the Big Bear Ski Club in the late '50s--along with Tommy Tyndall and others, he literally built the Tyndall Haus at Snow Summit, which served as the group's clubhouse. Youngest son Karl tells KBHR that during summer breaks from school, his dad also built homes and delivered milk. Karl remembers, “We'd deliver milk to all the camps up here. He'd always take one of us kids to go with him, at 4am.”

Monday's Fire Caused by Illegal Campfire; Fire Restrictions on Forest Be