Thu - November 20, 2003
"Old Fire" Coverage via the Classroom
Please visit my classroom
website.
Click
here
for the newest version of Rim Today dedicated to the "Old Fire" and mountain
community. You will need Quicktime
to view it. For a Windows Media Player version,
click
here.
Rim Today is a small bulletin program my AV students put together on a weekly basis. Through the past 3 years, this "bulletin" has evolved into a program all in itself. Most episodes are patterned after "The Daily Show with Jon Stewart" and "Saturday Night Live." Although we have some talent on-camera, the main lesson for the classroom is creating productions for an audience. It is truly a team effort, and this episode has brought many teams' contributions.
Thank you to Bill Smith of KTLA5, KABC7 (Wendy Burch and Dave Woods), and the FOX Sports team for their contributions for us to share with our community.
--Urbz
Rim Today is a small bulletin program my AV students put together on a weekly basis. Through the past 3 years, this "bulletin" has evolved into a program all in itself. Most episodes are patterned after "The Daily Show with Jon Stewart" and "Saturday Night Live." Although we have some talent on-camera, the main lesson for the classroom is creating productions for an audience. It is truly a team effort, and this episode has brought many teams' contributions.
Thank you to Bill Smith of KTLA5, KABC7 (Wendy Burch and Dave Woods), and the FOX Sports team for their contributions for us to share with our community.
--Urbz
Posted at 05:05 PM Read More
Fri - November 14, 2003
Getting back to the mundane this week.
The restart of life has not been that
smooth.
Check out the Mountain Friends & Neighbors website.
Check out the Mountain Friends & Neighbors website.
FEMA has asked the Superintendent's
Office to alert District staff that a Disaster Recovery Center has opened at the
Alpine Camp and Conference Center, 415 Clubhouse Drive in Blue Jay. Its hours
will be 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday through Friday and 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
on Saturday. The Center will be closed on
Sundays.
Disaster Recovery Centers provide more detailed program information to those who have already registered for assistance under President George Bush's October 27 disaster declaration and who may have further questions.
For more information please contact FEMA directly at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or by visiting their website at www.FEMA.gov
Well... as you know, our boys took a trip to Chicago to be with family over the past weekend. Rose and I started to put the home in order. The pets are still re-adjusting. We have returned to work and the kids start school on Monday. My boys are with me today helping out with my and other teachers' class needs.
Like many others I have shared stories with, the "wall" hits in many ways. My body rejected itself in every way, or so to say, earlier in the week. Only now can I sleep a little better (Rose, too). The general feeling down the mountain is "the fire has been over, what is your problem?" It is not the same up here. I have met some people who have lost their homes with smiles on their faces and tears in the back of their eyes, but many of them are still up here. This is a VERY strong and resilient community, regardless of our backgrounds.
On Wednesday, the school district had an all-day staff meeting. Representatives of the local agencies who fought the fire had presentations for us and shared some of their professional views of this disaster. This year's fires has become the 2nd worst disaster in US History only to 9/11. It the worst in CA history as well. That is amazing, if you count the two San Francisco earthquakes.
I will return later with more thoughts. They come and go...
Disaster Recovery Centers provide more detailed program information to those who have already registered for assistance under President George Bush's October 27 disaster declaration and who may have further questions.
For more information please contact FEMA directly at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or by visiting their website at www.FEMA.gov
Well... as you know, our boys took a trip to Chicago to be with family over the past weekend. Rose and I started to put the home in order. The pets are still re-adjusting. We have returned to work and the kids start school on Monday. My boys are with me today helping out with my and other teachers' class needs.
Like many others I have shared stories with, the "wall" hits in many ways. My body rejected itself in every way, or so to say, earlier in the week. Only now can I sleep a little better (Rose, too). The general feeling down the mountain is "the fire has been over, what is your problem?" It is not the same up here. I have met some people who have lost their homes with smiles on their faces and tears in the back of their eyes, but many of them are still up here. This is a VERY strong and resilient community, regardless of our backgrounds.
On Wednesday, the school district had an all-day staff meeting. Representatives of the local agencies who fought the fire had presentations for us and shared some of their professional views of this disaster. This year's fires has become the 2nd worst disaster in US History only to 9/11. It the worst in CA history as well. That is amazing, if you count the two San Francisco earthquakes.
I will return later with more thoughts. They come and go...
Posted at 07:22 AM Read More
Sat
- November 8, 2003
Highway 18 Update
Updates after 3:17pm
Beginning tonight (Friday
Nov. 7) at 7 p.m., SR-18 will open to traffic between 40th Street in San
Bernardino to SR-138 (Crestline cut-off). The "residents and businesses only"
restrictions have been lifted for all of the mountain communities and access is
now open to the general public. The closure was due to emergency repairs to
damaged and destroyed segments of guardrail and regulatory signage, as well as
removing charred trees and large rocks along State Route 18 and 330 in the
aftermath of the "Old
Fire."
Motorists can continue on SR-138 to the Crestline area. One travel lane in each direction will be available to motorists for the duration of the emergency repair work on SR-18. The segment of SR-18 from SR-138 to Nob Hill in Running Springs will remain closed during the emergency repair work for both work crews and public safety. State Route 189 is also open. SR- 330 has opened temporarily to traffic with California Highway Patrol (CHP) officer escort during the morning and evening commute hours from 5:00 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. and again from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Morning traffic will be down-bound only and evening traffic will be up-bound only on a daily basis or until further notice. Repair work on both routes continues.
The opening of the fire-damaged roads could change suddenly due to adverse weather conditions. Please plan ahead as both SR-18 and SR-330 may experience increased congestion due to the restricted road conditions. Your patience is appreciated during the emergency repair work. For the latest traffic advisories on fire-damaged road closures, go to www.dot.ca.gov/dist8.
Motorists can continue on SR-138 to the Crestline area. One travel lane in each direction will be available to motorists for the duration of the emergency repair work on SR-18. The segment of SR-18 from SR-138 to Nob Hill in Running Springs will remain closed during the emergency repair work for both work crews and public safety. State Route 189 is also open. SR- 330 has opened temporarily to traffic with California Highway Patrol (CHP) officer escort during the morning and evening commute hours from 5:00 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. and again from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Morning traffic will be down-bound only and evening traffic will be up-bound only on a daily basis or until further notice. Repair work on both routes continues.
The opening of the fire-damaged roads could change suddenly due to adverse weather conditions. Please plan ahead as both SR-18 and SR-330 may experience increased congestion due to the restricted road conditions. Your patience is appreciated during the emergency repair work. For the latest traffic advisories on fire-damaged road closures, go to www.dot.ca.gov/dist8.
Posted at 03:14 PM Read More
Fri - November 7, 2003
Friday Afternoon after 11:25am
The boys are in Chicago
with family, having some
fun!
This weekend is Sean's 15th birthday; Happy Birthday from Mom & Dadd!
We are home restarting life like so many of you; and for those without homes,
you are all in our daily thoughts and prayers.
This weekend is Sean's 15th birthday; Happy Birthday from Mom & Dadd!
We are home restarting life like so many of you; and for those without homes,
you are all in our daily thoughts and prayers.
- They are checking ID's at 138 and
Silverwood.
- And again, many of you have sent me very supportive emails. Thank you very much.
- This week, I will be around the mountains helping people with their computers and such. See ya around and stay tuned.
- It took over 3 hours to get to LAX from the mountain last night. I had to use my "Chicago" driving skills to get there. Rose ran them through the desk, security, and gate within 15 minutes. That's a new record. Thank you to Southwest Airlines for not giving us a hard time and getting those boys on the plane within seconds! (unlike United and American Airlines do all the time).
- Those new Stuffed Crepes at IHOP are awesome; try em out!
- And again, many of you have sent me very supportive emails. Thank you very much.
- This week, I will be around the mountains helping people with their computers and such. See ya around and stay tuned.
- It took over 3 hours to get to LAX from the mountain last night. I had to use my "Chicago" driving skills to get there. Rose ran them through the desk, security, and gate within 15 minutes. That's a new record. Thank you to Southwest Airlines for not giving us a hard time and getting those boys on the plane within seconds! (unlike United and American Airlines do all the time).
- Those new Stuffed Crepes at IHOP are awesome; try em out!
Posted at 11:18 AM Read More
Thu - November 6, 2003
Thursday Afternoon after 2:30pm
We brought the boys home today. Like
everyone else, the clean up
begins.
It took us 1.5 hours from Redlands to Twin Peaks. Traffic is flowing better on 138.
We will be at LAX for the evening; the boys fly out to Chicago for a week (family).
It took us 1.5 hours from Redlands to Twin Peaks. Traffic is flowing better on 138.
We will be at LAX for the evening; the boys fly out to Chicago for a week (family).
- I have added Strawberry Peak
pictures from this afternoon. I have updated different areas of my websites, so
please take note. Click
here.
- Thank you to many of the readers' emails of support. They mean so much. :-)
- We have heard MANY horror stories about insurance adjustors (especially about Farmer's Insurance). We hope things work out for the best.
- Cleaning your fridge: After a thorough bleach scrub, Use an 50/50 anti-bacterial/water solution to wipe down the film the bleach will leave. Then it's good old baking soda, The kind they specifically make for refrigerators.
- My DSL at home works. <sigh! - finally!>
- Thank you to many of the readers' emails of support. They mean so much. :-)
- We have heard MANY horror stories about insurance adjustors (especially about Farmer's Insurance). We hope things work out for the best.
- Cleaning your fridge: After a thorough bleach scrub, Use an 50/50 anti-bacterial/water solution to wipe down the film the bleach will leave. Then it's good old baking soda, The kind they specifically make for refrigerators.
- My DSL at home works. <sigh! - finally!>
Posted at 10:09 AM Read More
Wed - November 5, 2003
Wednesday Updates after 7:53pm
Today, I went on a field trip with
students to the Pomona Raceway
Fairplex
for the 15th annual Career Opportunities Fair sponsored by NHRA and the US Army.
We won first place in the multimedia challenge last year.
for the 15th annual Career Opportunities Fair sponsored by NHRA and the US Army.
We won first place in the multimedia challenge last year.
- Check out this link.
Click
here.
- This evening, I received an email from Daniel L. Hayes in San Marcos, CA. He claimed that because there was a quote in the AP article about RangerAl "being an old dude...", I was a self-serving pompous ass. Let me explain a few things here:
I was called by the author of that article, Ron Harris, in the evening during the last major battles of the fire. The article was supposed to be about using internet technology during this disaster. I was following the scanners, news, message boards, and posting all night long.
I have never been interviewed like that before. It was a casual conversation that lasted awhile about all sorts of subjects. Ron was typing as I was speaking (I heard him on the phone).
I spoke at LENGTH with MANY positives about our fellow webmasters and helpers (such as Ranger Al, Phil from AWUA, Scott from ROTW.net) on the mountain. The particular quote in question was taken out of its full sentences and context. I do not know Ranger Al personally, but I certainly did NOT say any negatives about anyone (except the TV coverage).
The author decided what he wanted to write and compresses things to fit his story. Did he call me to check on accuracies before he published? No! By the way, I don't have five kids or only one dog.
For those out there who know me well, maybe you could write Daniel L. Hayes and let him know what you think.
I was contacted by AP (Washington office) earlier in the week, and did NOT interview. Supporters around me encouraged me to accept doing an interview. I hardly ever look for credit for my work; I am too self-conscious. I brag about my students' work all the time. Ask Brenda Meyer from the Crestline Chamber of Commerce. I was even embarrassed after the pictures were taken.
If ANY part of the article offended anyone, I truly apologize. I am a teacher who was trying to assist others during this hard time. For those who know me as a teacher or on a personal level, they can assure you that this is true.
This one stings,
-- Joe Urbz
PS> I am also refunding all the money our readers have generously donated for a hi-speed connection.
- This evening, I received an email from Daniel L. Hayes in San Marcos, CA. He claimed that because there was a quote in the AP article about RangerAl "being an old dude...", I was a self-serving pompous ass. Let me explain a few things here:
I was called by the author of that article, Ron Harris, in the evening during the last major battles of the fire. The article was supposed to be about using internet technology during this disaster. I was following the scanners, news, message boards, and posting all night long.
I have never been interviewed like that before. It was a casual conversation that lasted awhile about all sorts of subjects. Ron was typing as I was speaking (I heard him on the phone).
I spoke at LENGTH with MANY positives about our fellow webmasters and helpers (such as Ranger Al, Phil from AWUA, Scott from ROTW.net) on the mountain. The particular quote in question was taken out of its full sentences and context. I do not know Ranger Al personally, but I certainly did NOT say any negatives about anyone (except the TV coverage).
The author decided what he wanted to write and compresses things to fit his story. Did he call me to check on accuracies before he published? No! By the way, I don't have five kids or only one dog.
For those out there who know me well, maybe you could write Daniel L. Hayes and let him know what you think.
I was contacted by AP (Washington office) earlier in the week, and did NOT interview. Supporters around me encouraged me to accept doing an interview. I hardly ever look for credit for my work; I am too self-conscious. I brag about my students' work all the time. Ask Brenda Meyer from the Crestline Chamber of Commerce. I was even embarrassed after the pictures were taken.
If ANY part of the article offended anyone, I truly apologize. I am a teacher who was trying to assist others during this hard time. For those who know me as a teacher or on a personal level, they can assure you that this is true.
This one stings,
-- Joe Urbz
PS> I am also refunding all the money our readers have generously donated for a hi-speed connection.
Posted at 06:09 AM Read More
Tue - November 4, 2003
Tuesday's Entry after 1:02pm
- Many people are attempting to go up
the mountain on Highway 18. This morning, they are being turned away at the
Waterman Canyon checkpoint. If a driver wishes to challenge that checkpoint (by
driving through), the CHP will be there. The entry is via 138, where the line is
hours long. There are major issues with landslides and driving conditions right
now.
- There are special passes that allow media, insurance adjustors, and other personnel through 18 and other roads.
- There are special passes that allow media, insurance adjustors, and other personnel through 18 and other roads.
Posted at 08:14 AM Read More
Sat
- November 1, 2003
Monday Evening Updates as of 6:30pm
Urbz blog
station:
The new link for the Urbz Blog Station is here; keep in mind, I am on a modem.
Send me updates we should post!
Rim School District
Ranger Al Updates
2020 Hindsight Blog
Wildfire Message Boards
RimoftheWorld.net Message Boards
The Official Information Site (check periodically for evacuation updates).
The new link for the Urbz Blog Station is here; keep in mind, I am on a modem.
Send me updates we should post!
Rim School District
Ranger Al Updates
2020 Hindsight Blog
Wildfire Message Boards
RimoftheWorld.net Message Boards
The Official Information Site (check periodically for evacuation updates).
- The entire area is now
open to residents (you cannot stay); everything west of Hook Creek Road has been
lifted to Voluntary Evacuation.
[hotline]
- School will start again on Monday, November 17th for the Rim School District, not November 12 which has been listed on the school website. There will be staff meetings starting the 13th at RHS.
----------------
- At midday yesterday, there were helicopter drops below the rim to try to finish off some hot areas. The current fire map today Monday 10/3/03 indicates that there is still activity of concern, however these areas are not near TP.
- We have had the opportunity to view each roadway and residence within the service area, and all appears to be in order with nothing to report to the TP S/O once again today.
- At sunrise this morning there was a light dusting of snow on the ground, breezy and quite cold. Presently @1320 hrs we have light intermittent snowfall & really no accumulation to speak of. The tree tops are iced up and it is very cold.
- As far as access to the area, every roadway coming east into Twin Peaks from Crestline is presently blocked with either a CHP or S/O unit. Checkpoints are throughout and the presence of law enforcement has increased. It is unknown at this time when access will be allowed. Perhaps the CHP or SBCO telephone numbers can offer current information.
- We are still without power, and SCE would be the best bet for up to date information. From visual, the power poles and lines have been compromised from Crestline to San Bernardino. In many instances the poles are completely burned away leaving only the insulator bars, hanging attached to the wires. Crews (and not only SCE crews) have been working diligently to replace the damaged infrastructure.
Phil-Alpine Water
----------------
Resident passes are available at the following locations:
- Norton Air Force Base Shelter Site
- Fire Emergency Assistance Center at Norton Air Force Base
- Hwy 138 at the intersection of Hwy 173 Near Silverwood Lake
- Wildwood Park at the corner of 40th & Waterman Ave.
- Crestline now has electricity in some areas.
- Goodwin's on Lake Gregory Drive is open for business with the exception of the meat and frozen food dept. These areas will need to be restocked. 7-11 is currently open and the gas pumps are open. Generators are being allowed into the evacuated areas with spark arrestors accompanied by a appropriate fire extinguisher.
- San Bernardino County Environmental Health Dept. has recommended that residents use caution when cleaning refrigerators. They suggest using gloves to remove spoiled food. Do not open containers! The following sites are available in Crestline for food disposal.
- Valley of Enchantment Elementary School
- Lake Gregory Elementary School
- Mountain Disposal Office
- The South Shore of Lake Gregory Regional Park
- Evacuation Information
The following phone numbers will give out information regarding what communities are open to residents:
Rene Groese 356-3967, Cindy Owens 356-3963
PASSES ARE GIVEN TO RESIDENTS ONLY! There is no information at this time when the roads will be open to non-residents.
----------------
- Rim Drama's website has been updated. I know the kids are wondering about the fall play, "Twelfth Night", since we are scheduled to open the play November 19th. I have spoken with the school administration and they will be discussing the play as part of their re-opening plans. Their next meeting is Monday. Obviously, there can be no definite plan until we progress further in returning to the mountain and the school, but those interested should visit www.rimdrama.com. I will update the site as I get new information. [Joel Smith]
----------------
- During Saturday's tour, I must share with you how astounded I was. I say this with respect to the devastation and places where structures were saved on the most remote roads that most of you did not know of until this disaster. The six most devastated places I witnessed were: Saturn Way in Crestline, Oceanview in Crestline, the Sand Hill section of Mazundar in Crestline (I did not see Sawpit Canyon), Cedar Glen (after the business district), Waterman Canyon, and the Forest Lawn Boy Scout Camp. There are other places where structures burned but in spots or small groups. Over and over, we just saw that what the fire missed, it was perfect; but where the fire hit, it disintegrated everything in its path. Now, the number of personnel fighting this fire is around 1600 professionals, which were stretched past Pilot Rock, Silverwood, Squints Ranch, Devore, East Highland, Hesperia, San Bernardino, way past Green Valley Lake, going into Big Bear. That number is the same as the population of Rim High School on any given day. Looking at the trees that are still dead and standing in groups (just look across the ALA office on 173), you get an overwhelming feeling that the mountain WAS spared (in terms of a majority of residents returning home with no deaths from the fire). I cannot put in words how overwhelmed I was seeing the remnants of battles all over the place, whether they saved structures or not. They found, and probably created, roads to try to save as much as they could. Some saved houses have burnt brush, trees, and wires all around their place, and you wonder... "how was that possible?" Sadly to say, some areas were completely wiped out without prejudice by the fire. In Cedar Glen, nothing was left in its path, except maybe a swingset (untouched) and a small playhouse. Know this, the efforts of ALL the agencies are truly awe-inspiring and they give every possible effort; regardless of any politics or agendas. They do things that seem not only improbable, but impossible. Realize that when they finish this fire, they will be called to fight other fires. Untiring effort comes from untiring hearts. When they finish, and we are back on the mountain restarting our lives, for those of us that have to, let's get those dead trees down and give your untiring support to all the agencies that saved our mountain. One last request (and I know some are already doing this)... can the real estate companies on the mountain minimize their severe competition and find a systematic way to offer vacation homes to our residents that are homeless? Please, find a way. [Joe Urbz]
----------------
- The picnic at Hilda Crook Park was a success. Julie Shuler did an outstanding job coordinating the picnic. Carls Jr. donated food supplies etc. for the occasion. The news media was there to interview Julie about the occasion. It was good to meet with everyone to compare notes and share information. A good time was had by all. After the occasion I went to SB Intl. Airport to see about the mail situation. I did indeed find my mail there. Allstate and Farmers Insurance had big vans there to assist people with claims. Additionally, there was a large turn out of local assistance for just about anything one could need in a time like this. The SB County had counselors to assist with approx. 30 different types of assistance for those who would need and qualify. [Tracy P]
For those with a homeowner's policy a claim should already have made a claim for loss of use to buy clothing and food as needed for the duration of being away. My insurance company got back to me within 24 hours asked me about where I was staying, how long I had been evacuated and approx. how much longer it would be. Without asking they stated that a check would be sent for paying rent, buying clothes and meals. Every one affected should keep receipts for the meals and expenses. The deductible will need to be paid so everyone needs to remember to put that money aside. The majority of will need further claims for clean up even if our structures are left standing for smoke and ash etc. [Tracy P]
- School will start again on Monday, November 17th for the Rim School District, not November 12 which has been listed on the school website. There will be staff meetings starting the 13th at RHS.
----------------
- At midday yesterday, there were helicopter drops below the rim to try to finish off some hot areas. The current fire map today Monday 10/3/03 indicates that there is still activity of concern, however these areas are not near TP.
- We have had the opportunity to view each roadway and residence within the service area, and all appears to be in order with nothing to report to the TP S/O once again today.
- At sunrise this morning there was a light dusting of snow on the ground, breezy and quite cold. Presently @1320 hrs we have light intermittent snowfall & really no accumulation to speak of. The tree tops are iced up and it is very cold.
- As far as access to the area, every roadway coming east into Twin Peaks from Crestline is presently blocked with either a CHP or S/O unit. Checkpoints are throughout and the presence of law enforcement has increased. It is unknown at this time when access will be allowed. Perhaps the CHP or SBCO telephone numbers can offer current information.
- We are still without power, and SCE would be the best bet for up to date information. From visual, the power poles and lines have been compromised from Crestline to San Bernardino. In many instances the poles are completely burned away leaving only the insulator bars, hanging attached to the wires. Crews (and not only SCE crews) have been working diligently to replace the damaged infrastructure.
Phil-Alpine Water
----------------
Resident passes are available at the following locations:
- Norton Air Force Base Shelter Site
- Fire Emergency Assistance Center at Norton Air Force Base
- Hwy 138 at the intersection of Hwy 173 Near Silverwood Lake
- Wildwood Park at the corner of 40th & Waterman Ave.
- Crestline now has electricity in some areas.
- Goodwin's on Lake Gregory Drive is open for business with the exception of the meat and frozen food dept. These areas will need to be restocked. 7-11 is currently open and the gas pumps are open. Generators are being allowed into the evacuated areas with spark arrestors accompanied by a appropriate fire extinguisher.
- San Bernardino County Environmental Health Dept. has recommended that residents use caution when cleaning refrigerators. They suggest using gloves to remove spoiled food. Do not open containers! The following sites are available in Crestline for food disposal.
- Valley of Enchantment Elementary School
- Lake Gregory Elementary School
- Mountain Disposal Office
- The South Shore of Lake Gregory Regional Park
- Evacuation Information
The following phone numbers will give out information regarding what communities are open to residents:
Rene Groese 356-3967, Cindy Owens 356-3963
PASSES ARE GIVEN TO RESIDENTS ONLY! There is no information at this time when the roads will be open to non-residents.
----------------
- Rim Drama's website has been updated. I know the kids are wondering about the fall play, "Twelfth Night", since we are scheduled to open the play November 19th. I have spoken with the school administration and they will be discussing the play as part of their re-opening plans. Their next meeting is Monday. Obviously, there can be no definite plan until we progress further in returning to the mountain and the school, but those interested should visit www.rimdrama.com. I will update the site as I get new information. [Joel Smith]
----------------
- During Saturday's tour, I must share with you how astounded I was. I say this with respect to the devastation and places where structures were saved on the most remote roads that most of you did not know of until this disaster. The six most devastated places I witnessed were: Saturn Way in Crestline, Oceanview in Crestline, the Sand Hill section of Mazundar in Crestline (I did not see Sawpit Canyon), Cedar Glen (after the business district), Waterman Canyon, and the Forest Lawn Boy Scout Camp. There are other places where structures burned but in spots or small groups. Over and over, we just saw that what the fire missed, it was perfect; but where the fire hit, it disintegrated everything in its path. Now, the number of personnel fighting this fire is around 1600 professionals, which were stretched past Pilot Rock, Silverwood, Squints Ranch, Devore, East Highland, Hesperia, San Bernardino, way past Green Valley Lake, going into Big Bear. That number is the same as the population of Rim High School on any given day. Looking at the trees that are still dead and standing in groups (just look across the ALA office on 173), you get an overwhelming feeling that the mountain WAS spared (in terms of a majority of residents returning home with no deaths from the fire). I cannot put in words how overwhelmed I was seeing the remnants of battles all over the place, whether they saved structures or not. They found, and probably created, roads to try to save as much as they could. Some saved houses have burnt brush, trees, and wires all around their place, and you wonder... "how was that possible?" Sadly to say, some areas were completely wiped out without prejudice by the fire. In Cedar Glen, nothing was left in its path, except maybe a swingset (untouched) and a small playhouse. Know this, the efforts of ALL the agencies are truly awe-inspiring and they give every possible effort; regardless of any politics or agendas. They do things that seem not only improbable, but impossible. Realize that when they finish this fire, they will be called to fight other fires. Untiring effort comes from untiring hearts. When they finish, and we are back on the mountain restarting our lives, for those of us that have to, let's get those dead trees down and give your untiring support to all the agencies that saved our mountain. One last request (and I know some are already doing this)... can the real estate companies on the mountain minimize their severe competition and find a systematic way to offer vacation homes to our residents that are homeless? Please, find a way. [Joe Urbz]
----------------
- The picnic at Hilda Crook Park was a success. Julie Shuler did an outstanding job coordinating the picnic. Carls Jr. donated food supplies etc. for the occasion. The news media was there to interview Julie about the occasion. It was good to meet with everyone to compare notes and share information. A good time was had by all. After the occasion I went to SB Intl. Airport to see about the mail situation. I did indeed find my mail there. Allstate and Farmers Insurance had big vans there to assist people with claims. Additionally, there was a large turn out of local assistance for just about anything one could need in a time like this. The SB County had counselors to assist with approx. 30 different types of assistance for those who would need and qualify. [Tracy P]
For those with a homeowner's policy a claim should already have made a claim for loss of use to buy clothing and food as needed for the duration of being away. My insurance company got back to me within 24 hours asked me about where I was staying, how long I had been evacuated and approx. how much longer it would be. Without asking they stated that a check would be sent for paying rent, buying clothes and meals. Every one affected should keep receipts for the meals and expenses. The deductible will need to be paid so everyone needs to remember to put that money aside. The majority of will need further claims for clean up even if our structures are left standing for smoke and ash etc. [Tracy P]
Posted at 05:18 AM Read More
Fri - October 31, 2003
Halloween Updates as of 9:15pm
Urbz' Weblog Station
(resting now; be back tomorrow afternoon; moving day
tomorrow).
Susan's 2020 Hindsight Blog
Ranger Al's Updates
Rim School District
Susan's 2020 Hindsight Blog
Ranger Al's Updates
Rim School District
- When they open it up and you start
to head up the mountain you will see that most everything is burnt. There are
patches of some green but basically 80 percent of it is burnt out. However, when
you turn in to 189 from 18 by the Cliffhanger, you won't be able to tell there
was a fire in our area at all. Sort of blessed there.
[mgs]
- We just got back from the evacuation center at SB airport. A firefighter told us that One night this past week (I think he said Wed.) there were sixty fire trucks with seven firefighters on each truck that stood down the fire at Yosemite and park. We can’t find park on our map (does any one know where that is?) Any way, the story was amazing, this is the stuff legends are made of. He said you could walk down Yosemite on the tops of fire trucks. The way he described the commitment and determination of those firefighters gave me chills up my spine and brought tears to my eyes. It’s the same feeling as when I watch an extraordinarily courageous and selfless act of courage in a war movie. I don’t think any of us can ever appreciate these firefighters as much as they deserve. So, the big news is that they stopped the fire from crossing Yosemite. Any one in that area (like us, we live on Sequoia right at Yosemite) can rest easy tonight knowing that these firefighters saved our homes, at least for now. I thought you would like to know. [Ken & Heather]
Northern Command Sending 14 Aircraft to Battle California Fires
by Tech. Sgt. Devin Fisher Special to American Forces Press Service
PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo., Oct. 29, 2003 - U.S. Northern Command is sending all eight of the Defense Department's C-130 aircraft equipped with the Modular Airborne Firefighting System, or MAFFS, and six CH-53 helicopters with fire suppression buckets to support the wildland firefighting effort in California. [spectr17]
- To the Lawrence and Ekedal families: My goodness, thank you. You seriously did not have to do such a thing. I am truly, truly moved. I will keep this blog going. Your gift benefits everyone! Thank you so much again, --Joe Urbz
- Dear Wonderful People, Last night as I was searching all of the sites for information about the fire, I saw a news media picture of what appeared to be someone's rescued dog as it was joyfully licking the face of a kneeling, war weary fire fighter in the midst of all of this massive destruction. All I was able to think was;
- Daily cost to fight the fires.....$2,000,000+
- Overall cost in physical damage.....$28,000,000,000+
- Gratitude from "All creatures great and small".....priceless.
This image is the closest I have been able to come to expressing the gratitude I feel to all of you emergency support personnel and die hard residents of our mountain who are giving your all and helping in every conceivable way possible. May God truly bless and keep you all safe in His care. From the bottom of my heart, Penny Cooper 29794 Redwood Road (burnt) Cedar Glen, CA
- Help is very much needed at the evacuation center; no experience necessary. Hope to see you there! [Joe & CJ]
- No structure losses in Running Springs today.
- We just got back from the evacuation center at SB airport. A firefighter told us that One night this past week (I think he said Wed.) there were sixty fire trucks with seven firefighters on each truck that stood down the fire at Yosemite and park. We can’t find park on our map (does any one know where that is?) Any way, the story was amazing, this is the stuff legends are made of. He said you could walk down Yosemite on the tops of fire trucks. The way he described the commitment and determination of those firefighters gave me chills up my spine and brought tears to my eyes. It’s the same feeling as when I watch an extraordinarily courageous and selfless act of courage in a war movie. I don’t think any of us can ever appreciate these firefighters as much as they deserve. So, the big news is that they stopped the fire from crossing Yosemite. Any one in that area (like us, we live on Sequoia right at Yosemite) can rest easy tonight knowing that these firefighters saved our homes, at least for now. I thought you would like to know. [Ken & Heather]
Northern Command Sending 14 Aircraft to Battle California Fires
by Tech. Sgt. Devin Fisher Special to American Forces Press Service
PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo., Oct. 29, 2003 - U.S. Northern Command is sending all eight of the Defense Department's C-130 aircraft equipped with the Modular Airborne Firefighting System, or MAFFS, and six CH-53 helicopters with fire suppression buckets to support the wildland firefighting effort in California. [spectr17]
- To the Lawrence and Ekedal families: My goodness, thank you. You seriously did not have to do such a thing. I am truly, truly moved. I will keep this blog going. Your gift benefits everyone! Thank you so much again, --Joe Urbz
- Dear Wonderful People, Last night as I was searching all of the sites for information about the fire, I saw a news media picture of what appeared to be someone's rescued dog as it was joyfully licking the face of a kneeling, war weary fire fighter in the midst of all of this massive destruction. All I was able to think was;
- Daily cost to fight the fires.....$2,000,000+
- Overall cost in physical damage.....$28,000,000,000+
- Gratitude from "All creatures great and small".....priceless.
This image is the closest I have been able to come to expressing the gratitude I feel to all of you emergency support personnel and die hard residents of our mountain who are giving your all and helping in every conceivable way possible. May God truly bless and keep you all safe in His care. From the bottom of my heart, Penny Cooper 29794 Redwood Road (burnt) Cedar Glen, CA
- Help is very much needed at the evacuation center; no experience necessary. Hope to see you there! [Joe & CJ]
- No structure losses in Running Springs today.
Posted at 05:31 PM Read More
Friday PM Updates after 15:25
Urbz' Weblog Station
(resting now; be back later in the
evening):
(Tomorrow I am losing my DSL connection to continue this page. The apartment we are going to requires $150 for the first month of DSL. I don't have $ for that (I have a family w/two teens). I am not asking for money; just informing when I go offline.)
CA Wildfire Information
Rim School District Photos of Schools A.F.
Ranger Al's Updates
Susan's 2020 Hindsight Blog
(Tomorrow I am losing my DSL connection to continue this page. The apartment we are going to requires $150 for the first month of DSL. I don't have $ for that (I have a family w/two teens). I am not asking for money; just informing when I go offline.)
CA Wildfire Information
Rim School District Photos of Schools A.F.
Ranger Al's Updates
Susan's 2020 Hindsight Blog
- A person on the
hotline asked me to post the following: The mountain roads are closed to
everyone, even
residents.
- I just spoke with the PIO in Big Bear City. The fire in the Big Bear area has progressed, but very slowly. Officials are HOPING to allow residents back into the mountains on Sunday or Monday. [Radha, http://www.bigbear.us]
- Crews are coming down the mountain for the night due to the weather conditions. They need a deserved break.
- "2 nights ago I stopped posting just right before the Fire crew in Hook creek pulled out and endured the flashover inside of their trucks... windows so hot they could even touch them with gloves, not mention the paint on the trucks burning off. 1/2 hour in hell, not knowing if your days were up or not. The firemen on duty here are all people to be awed and thanked. Remember that whenever you see them after this is all over." [Charlietuna]
- "Arrowhead Ranch" (formerly the Int'l Ice Skating Training Center) is now open to firefighters with food and 200 cots!!! Pass this around; most of the crews do not know of it yet!
- Go to google and news and subscribe for news updates for "<City you live in>" and "Old Fire" and you'll get all the news articles as they are written. [message board]
- Many, many people are trying to get back up the mountain by any means necessary. Please refrain from doing this. We all want to go back (and yes, I own a 4x4) ASAP. The roads are EXTREMELY dangerous, not to mention the back roads. Falling trees and livewires are just the start of the issues. Let the professionals who are fighting this disaster do their job. We do not need to get in their way (the media is doing enough of that). If CHP finds you, there are consequences. They drive people down the hill and will drop you off wherever "down the hill" may be (it is not taxi ride), then you are taking THAT professional out of duty to help the firefighters. You are putting yourself at great risk and the others on the mountain. We are a close knit community, but things other than the fire, are getting compromised. Now, that is something we CAN control. We have websites and hotlines for information; use them. There are a few people giving us info from the mountain. Do you want to lose those contacts as well? Think about it.
- From pe.com, 11:49 am: At the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection's South Operations headquarters in Riverside, officials were optimistic. The headquarters supervises firefighting operations from the San Joaquin Valley to Mexico. CDF officials said the Grand Prix and the Old Fire were a combined 25 percent contained as of 9:17 a.m. The Grand Prix Fire had burned 45,515 acres and the Old Fire had burned 49,880 acres as of 10 a.m. There are 3,100 firefighters battling the two blazes, using 14 helicopters, 491 fire engines and 13 bulldozers. "We are in a real critical catch-up phase in all firefighting activities today." Dehart said. "The key is what's happening with the weather," he said. "It remains cool in the mountains. The humidity is up. The immediate threat to structures and property is obviously not what it was three days ago." He said fire officials are "hoping for some more rainfall today, tonight and tomorrow. "We've still got a lot of potential for this to spread because there's so much dead fuel still standing and on the ground." If all goes well, he said, "the cool weather will continue, the humidity will remain high and we might get some periodic rain. "Even if that doesn't happen, we're much better off today than we were yesterday (Thursday) because firefighters have had a chance to get their second wind. They don't have to concentrate on structure protection. They're focusing on putting in these fire lines, which are so vital in the event the fire picks up again." Ed Crisostomo/The Press-Enterprise A shower of light rain and wet ash falls around LA County Fire Capt. Gary Walsh at the southern edge of Arrowbear Lake on Thursday, bringing firefighters the break they have been longing for. With the moderate weather, no homes were lost yesterday and firefighters began scraping a clear firebreak between burned and unburned forest.The threat to Big Bear has eased, although the community remains at risk, said Larry Benson, a spokesman for the Southern California fire operations center in Riverside.
- Running Springs: Major issues with rats (for those who remember the issue a few years ago after the fire.)
- The uncovered story is the windstorm that happened yesterday - many many downed tress that were not burned are all over the place. [Seth]
- Bring down all the type 1 engines because of expected snow tonight, starting at 1400 hours in shifts - 5 strike teams at a time. [Denny/Scanner]
- We have just driven the following roads and do not see any fire damage. Mile Pine Road south of Hwy 189 Behind the Market. Bear Springs road from Twin Peaks to Hwy 18 at Rim Forest. Middle Road north of Hwy 189 from end to end. Part of Resort Loop. Firehall Loop. Lodge Lane. The Twin peaks Community Church and the County buildings are fine. The Stars and Stripes were down at the Rim of The World Masonic temple between the church & the county bldgs. The flag is a bit filthy and tattered, but it's up now. [Phil]
- Rim Football coaches and Rim football Boosters are looking for all varsity football players for a spirit meet. Call Laura for more details at 499-6236, or Bobby Berteaux @ 909 855-4065.
- Running Springs: All perimeters are being held around RS. No homes have burned. CEDU and the Elementary School are intact. Concentrated efforts now are at Nob Hill and Enchanted Forest. Firemen are clearing the area of brush, etc, and felling dead trees at the rate of 10 per minute, but not on private land. Arrowbear is not threatened. The weather has given them time to rework the whole perimeter by spraying houses with retardent, removing furniture from around cabins, etc. on a house to house basis. The fire continues to move slowly, and weather is a major factor today. [Per RSFD]
- Fernrock area, Sierra Vista, 5-Points, Calvary Chapel, Clubhouse, Cedar, Lower Rose, Glen View, Grandview, Sky Ridge, Augusta, Bear Springs Road at water tanks-All areas fine-VISUAL ALL. The Strawberry Lodge structure fire is out. At 8am this morning the tree tops began icing up & we have had light intermittent snow fluries and ice balls. Wind remains a bit erratic. We met with Crest Forest Fire and were told that there is no immediate danger. It is wet, cold, foggy. No sight or smell of smoke. We spoke with the State of California Dept Of Health Svcs yeaterday and assured them that we had not at any time lost the water system, and are at 100% capacity. [Phil, AWUA]
- Banff, Mamooth, Yosemite, and Yellowstone are Clear :) One hell of a Firefight though, came real close. [JW]
- I work at the sheriff's station in Twin Peaks and spoke with someone that was in the squad room. Did not mention anything about being burnt down or suffering any damage to the building. I do know that it came about 1/2 mile to a mile away from the station. I was also told that the interior of Twin Peaks was still intact as well as the interior of Arrowhead. Will see if I can obtain any more actual info on other areas of the mountain. [message board]
- Two more units going to the fire behind the water treatment plant behind Camp Seeley (138); there are a lot of engines.
- I seem to be hearing that there are quite a few people who have still not found a place to stay, or who are stuck in shelters. If you own your home and have insurance, specifically "Loss of Use" on your insurance, you can usually be helped. If you speak to your agent, tell them you cannot return to your home, even if it is undamaged. They should help you with living expense money or help you find a place to stay at your insurance's expense. You will be responsible for paying your deductible. If you have accrued expenses already, they can usually count towards your deductible. We were told that due to it being a disaster area, our rates would not be affected. This info is from our own experience, yours may or may not be the same due to different insurance companies. Hope this helps someone. [From Rose Urbz]
- Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism to Offer Evacuation Rates at Palm Springs Hotels for Big Bear Lake, Arrowhead Lake, and Surrounding Communities. Residents of Big Bear Lake, Arrowhead Lake and all surrounding communities can get drastically reduced rates at Palm Springs Hotels during their evacuation period. Beginning Immediately- Evacuees can contact the Official Visitors Center and Hotel Reservation Center for participating hotels at: 1-800-347-7746.
- For what it is worth, I called Verizon @ 800-483-1000 and it reported a signal from our place in Rimforest. This is the best information I can get from the outside. [CJ]
- I have received many emails about specific addresses. As much as I would LOVE to share details, I do not have that information. I am trying to get verifications of areas in general, but it is hard to come by. Please be patient.
- I just spoke with the PIO in Big Bear City. The fire in the Big Bear area has progressed, but very slowly. Officials are HOPING to allow residents back into the mountains on Sunday or Monday. [Radha, http://www.bigbear.us]
- Crews are coming down the mountain for the night due to the weather conditions. They need a deserved break.
- "2 nights ago I stopped posting just right before the Fire crew in Hook creek pulled out and endured the flashover inside of their trucks... windows so hot they could even touch them with gloves, not mention the paint on the trucks burning off. 1/2 hour in hell, not knowing if your days were up or not. The firemen on duty here are all people to be awed and thanked. Remember that whenever you see them after this is all over." [Charlietuna]
- "Arrowhead Ranch" (formerly the Int'l Ice Skating Training Center) is now open to firefighters with food and 200 cots!!! Pass this around; most of the crews do not know of it yet!
- Go to google and news and subscribe for news updates for "<City you live in>" and "Old Fire" and you'll get all the news articles as they are written. [message board]
- Many, many people are trying to get back up the mountain by any means necessary. Please refrain from doing this. We all want to go back (and yes, I own a 4x4) ASAP. The roads are EXTREMELY dangerous, not to mention the back roads. Falling trees and livewires are just the start of the issues. Let the professionals who are fighting this disaster do their job. We do not need to get in their way (the media is doing enough of that). If CHP finds you, there are consequences. They drive people down the hill and will drop you off wherever "down the hill" may be (it is not taxi ride), then you are taking THAT professional out of duty to help the firefighters. You are putting yourself at great risk and the others on the mountain. We are a close knit community, but things other than the fire, are getting compromised. Now, that is something we CAN control. We have websites and hotlines for information; use them. There are a few people giving us info from the mountain. Do you want to lose those contacts as well? Think about it.
- From pe.com, 11:49 am: At the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection's South Operations headquarters in Riverside, officials were optimistic. The headquarters supervises firefighting operations from the San Joaquin Valley to Mexico. CDF officials said the Grand Prix and the Old Fire were a combined 25 percent contained as of 9:17 a.m. The Grand Prix Fire had burned 45,515 acres and the Old Fire had burned 49,880 acres as of 10 a.m. There are 3,100 firefighters battling the two blazes, using 14 helicopters, 491 fire engines and 13 bulldozers. "We are in a real critical catch-up phase in all firefighting activities today." Dehart said. "The key is what's happening with the weather," he said. "It remains cool in the mountains. The humidity is up. The immediate threat to structures and property is obviously not what it was three days ago." He said fire officials are "hoping for some more rainfall today, tonight and tomorrow. "We've still got a lot of potential for this to spread because there's so much dead fuel still standing and on the ground." If all goes well, he said, "the cool weather will continue, the humidity will remain high and we might get some periodic rain. "Even if that doesn't happen, we're much better off today than we were yesterday (Thursday) because firefighters have had a chance to get their second wind. They don't have to concentrate on structure protection. They're focusing on putting in these fire lines, which are so vital in the event the fire picks up again." Ed Crisostomo/The Press-Enterprise A shower of light rain and wet ash falls around LA County Fire Capt. Gary Walsh at the southern edge of Arrowbear Lake on Thursday, bringing firefighters the break they have been longing for. With the moderate weather, no homes were lost yesterday and firefighters began scraping a clear firebreak between burned and unburned forest.The threat to Big Bear has eased, although the community remains at risk, said Larry Benson, a spokesman for the Southern California fire operations center in Riverside.
- Running Springs: Major issues with rats (for those who remember the issue a few years ago after the fire.)
- The uncovered story is the windstorm that happened yesterday - many many downed tress that were not burned are all over the place. [Seth]
- Bring down all the type 1 engines because of expected snow tonight, starting at 1400 hours in shifts - 5 strike teams at a time. [Denny/Scanner]
- We have just driven the following roads and do not see any fire damage. Mile Pine Road south of Hwy 189 Behind the Market. Bear Springs road from Twin Peaks to Hwy 18 at Rim Forest. Middle Road north of Hwy 189 from end to end. Part of Resort Loop. Firehall Loop. Lodge Lane. The Twin peaks Community Church and the County buildings are fine. The Stars and Stripes were down at the Rim of The World Masonic temple between the church & the county bldgs. The flag is a bit filthy and tattered, but it's up now. [Phil]
- Rim Football coaches and Rim football Boosters are looking for all varsity football players for a spirit meet. Call Laura for more details at 499-6236, or Bobby Berteaux @ 909 855-4065.
- Running Springs: All perimeters are being held around RS. No homes have burned. CEDU and the Elementary School are intact. Concentrated efforts now are at Nob Hill and Enchanted Forest. Firemen are clearing the area of brush, etc, and felling dead trees at the rate of 10 per minute, but not on private land. Arrowbear is not threatened. The weather has given them time to rework the whole perimeter by spraying houses with retardent, removing furniture from around cabins, etc. on a house to house basis. The fire continues to move slowly, and weather is a major factor today. [Per RSFD]
- Fernrock area, Sierra Vista, 5-Points, Calvary Chapel, Clubhouse, Cedar, Lower Rose, Glen View, Grandview, Sky Ridge, Augusta, Bear Springs Road at water tanks-All areas fine-VISUAL ALL. The Strawberry Lodge structure fire is out. At 8am this morning the tree tops began icing up & we have had light intermittent snow fluries and ice balls. Wind remains a bit erratic. We met with Crest Forest Fire and were told that there is no immediate danger. It is wet, cold, foggy. No sight or smell of smoke. We spoke with the State of California Dept Of Health Svcs yeaterday and assured them that we had not at any time lost the water system, and are at 100% capacity. [Phil, AWUA]
- Banff, Mamooth, Yosemite, and Yellowstone are Clear :) One hell of a Firefight though, came real close. [JW]
- I work at the sheriff's station in Twin Peaks and spoke with someone that was in the squad room. Did not mention anything about being burnt down or suffering any damage to the building. I do know that it came about 1/2 mile to a mile away from the station. I was also told that the interior of Twin Peaks was still intact as well as the interior of Arrowhead. Will see if I can obtain any more actual info on other areas of the mountain. [message board]
- Two more units going to the fire behind the water treatment plant behind Camp Seeley (138); there are a lot of engines.
- I seem to be hearing that there are quite a few people who have still not found a place to stay, or who are stuck in shelters. If you own your home and have insurance, specifically "Loss of Use" on your insurance, you can usually be helped. If you speak to your agent, tell them you cannot return to your home, even if it is undamaged. They should help you with living expense money or help you find a place to stay at your insurance's expense. You will be responsible for paying your deductible. If you have accrued expenses already, they can usually count towards your deductible. We were told that due to it being a disaster area, our rates would not be affected. This info is from our own experience, yours may or may not be the same due to different insurance companies. Hope this helps someone. [From Rose Urbz]
- Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism to Offer Evacuation Rates at Palm Springs Hotels for Big Bear Lake, Arrowhead Lake, and Surrounding Communities. Residents of Big Bear Lake, Arrowhead Lake and all surrounding communities can get drastically reduced rates at Palm Springs Hotels during their evacuation period. Beginning Immediately- Evacuees can contact the Official Visitors Center and Hotel Reservation Center for participating hotels at: 1-800-347-7746.
- For what it is worth, I called Verizon @ 800-483-1000 and it reported a signal from our place in Rimforest. This is the best information I can get from the outside. [CJ]
- I have received many emails about specific addresses. As much as I would LOVE to share details, I do not have that information. I am trying to get verifications of areas in general, but it is hard to come by. Please be patient.
Posted at 04:47 AM Read More
Thu - October 30, 2003
Thursday Evening Updates after 22:45 PDT
Link for Rim School
District
- I am in need of a break. I
will be back early in the AM, especially checking on Twin Peaks. Keep the posts
coming and pray for the
best!
- Fires still going in a few locations. Keep an eye on them. The firefighters are SO close to winning this battle to a degree.
- Green Valley Lake needs a recon to see how close the fire is. It has NOT reached the community yet.
- Scanner updates: Flare ups coming up on CEDU that came in by surprise (they lost the line earlier today). The RimForest structure turned out to be a burning log, however, a fire is still hanging at Ash Meadow Rd.
- (9:35 P.M. Oct 30th Running Springs: the 2003 Alamo) Running Springs surrounded on four sides per RSFD: now burning towards Deer Lick, Fires on the south at the Elementary School. Expected to meet western perimeter tonight. Fog: 50 to 100 foot visibility: flames and spot fires hard to see 40 mile per hour gusts; No air support possible; the media has deserted the mountain. This is not a fair fight. [Lindaleescabin]
- Details on providing care packages for the crews to be delivered for the morning. Things needed: leather gloves, chap stick, sleeping cots, nasal spray (saline), sleeping bags, combs and brushes, trucks for transport. The drop-off site is at the old Stater Bros parking lot; 40th & Waterman. Now and until 9:30 tomorrow morning, you can drop off these items; someone will be in the motorhome to assist you. [Brenda Meyer]
- The tentative target date for the schools to open is November 14th. Again, this is tentative.
- I spoke with an emergency medical person and he was cautiously optimistic. The fire hasn't reached Big Bear Valley. I received the following email: 7PM Thursday: From Big Bear Grizzly - The Old Fire continues to remain outside of Big Bear Valley, moving slowly toward Running Springs. As of 4PM, the fire had moved slightly north and was burning about 1 mile south of Deer Lick. The change of weather has helped in the effort. There is no known date as to when residents may be allowed back into Big Bear or any of the other evacuated communities. Reopening the communities will not be done until is is completely safe, officials say. [Radha Khalsa, http://www.bigbear.us]
- A COMMUNITY IS MADE UP OF PEOPLE, NOT BUILDINGS. Please join your friends, family, and neighbors for a Mountain Communities Refugee Picnic, Saturday, Nov.1st, 12 Noon, at the Hilda Crooks Park, at the south end of Mtn.View Ave., on the border of Loma Linda and Bryn Mawr. Exit 10 east at Mtn. View and procede south. ALL are welcome. A good time for your children to play with their friends and for you to have some adult time. BYO food and beverage. For more info, please call me at (909) 499-5521. [Julie]
- I'm back at the house on Crest Forest Dr. again. It's martial law up here right now. The police are stopping cars and questioning people, looking out for looters. They have told me to either stay home or leave the mountain. That put a lid on my plans of checking on peoples' houses and animals. With the exception of 4 or 5 houses on Valley View off Playground, all of Valley View Park appears to be OK. If anyone has any needs for me to check on homes or pets in the immediate area (where I can walk to) in the vicinity of Crest Forest and Playground, you can call me at 338-1495. Please, only call for any requests within this immediate area. I ran into Woody this afternoon. His business is doing great! He is a very happy bar owner. [Dominique Dieken]
- Homes were spared at the earlier fire site of Yosemite & Yellowstone in Lake Arrowhead!
- Has anyone heard about a fire in Twin Peaks threatening the east end of Lake Gregory-Valley of the Moon and Dart Cyn? [Jane]
- I have been informed that the Lake Arrowhead Resort which was evac at 11:30pm last night is preparing to reopen as a command and rest center. Fingers crossed here. Best to all. [Phil]
- Between the Pea Soup and blocked up traffic, and downed trees, they are frustrated with transports.
- "I just returned from Job's Peak and things look great for all the homes that are south facing. I luckily received a ride with San Bernardino Police to feed my animals (I work at Mountain High). I received so many conflicting messages and the news coverage absolutely sucked! So I was determined to get a look at my house to see if it was still standing. My house is 21601 Peak Circle Dr. Every-house up to my house and three houses past my house survived. Unfortunately, the last two houses facing south on Peak Circle did not survive and the corner house across the street burnt also. We were stopped at the southwest corner of Peak Circle by a fireman. He said a fire truck was up ahead keeping an eye on hot-spots. It was really foggy and misty so it was hard to see beyond 100 feet. He said no concerns about the hot-spots on the north side of Job's Peak under the current conditions. I could not tell if any of the streets above Peak Circle Burned. I don't think so. I heard from people staying up there that it was all clear, but it seems to have gone around Jobs Peak Mountain on the West side and wrapped around to the north side above Lakeland View and Mozumdar and apparently headed south towards Silverwood Lake from there. I''m so sorry for those who lost homes there. I didn't get to verify what homes burned, but the fireman said it was pretty extensive below Peak Circle Dr. If there''s anything we can do for anyone in that area, let us know. I also saw many telephone poles heading up the mountain with wire coils and transistor boxes. Heard them say that they hoped to have everything back to normal in a week. I also overheard some police officers saying that they thought we would be able to return in 2 to 3 days, but I was just eavesdropping and that wasn't verified. God bless our mountain community. We are resilient people and everyone who is hurting right now, know that we all hurt with you and we will all get through this together, stronger. Now, maybe the GOV will do something about the trees. The firemen are all awesome in my eyes. I know they fought like hell and did their best for all of us. Thank you!" [Mark Warhol]
- Fire is being fought at the bottom of Running Springs School Rd near Seymour Rd. [Mike S.]
Mountain Residents can pick up their mail at 195 Del Rosa in San Bernardino! That is at the SB International Airport near the shelter. Pick it up from 11am-6pm through 11/7/03.
- I heard that it was clear up there... around the Yellowstone and Yosemite intersection (the one closest to 173) but it was a very close call. They saved it when the battle for the hospital was won. I think. But they are saying that the fire is going NE. [Mike S]
- Fires still going in a few locations. Keep an eye on them. The firefighters are SO close to winning this battle to a degree.
- Green Valley Lake needs a recon to see how close the fire is. It has NOT reached the community yet.
- Scanner updates: Flare ups coming up on CEDU that came in by surprise (they lost the line earlier today). The RimForest structure turned out to be a burning log, however, a fire is still hanging at Ash Meadow Rd.
- (9:35 P.M. Oct 30th Running Springs: the 2003 Alamo) Running Springs surrounded on four sides per RSFD: now burning towards Deer Lick, Fires on the south at the Elementary School. Expected to meet western perimeter tonight. Fog: 50 to 100 foot visibility: flames and spot fires hard to see 40 mile per hour gusts; No air support possible; the media has deserted the mountain. This is not a fair fight. [Lindaleescabin]
- Details on providing care packages for the crews to be delivered for the morning. Things needed: leather gloves, chap stick, sleeping cots, nasal spray (saline), sleeping bags, combs and brushes, trucks for transport. The drop-off site is at the old Stater Bros parking lot; 40th & Waterman. Now and until 9:30 tomorrow morning, you can drop off these items; someone will be in the motorhome to assist you. [Brenda Meyer]
- The tentative target date for the schools to open is November 14th. Again, this is tentative.
- I spoke with an emergency medical person and he was cautiously optimistic. The fire hasn't reached Big Bear Valley. I received the following email: 7PM Thursday: From Big Bear Grizzly - The Old Fire continues to remain outside of Big Bear Valley, moving slowly toward Running Springs. As of 4PM, the fire had moved slightly north and was burning about 1 mile south of Deer Lick. The change of weather has helped in the effort. There is no known date as to when residents may be allowed back into Big Bear or any of the other evacuated communities. Reopening the communities will not be done until is is completely safe, officials say. [Radha Khalsa, http://www.bigbear.us]
- A COMMUNITY IS MADE UP OF PEOPLE, NOT BUILDINGS. Please join your friends, family, and neighbors for a Mountain Communities Refugee Picnic, Saturday, Nov.1st, 12 Noon, at the Hilda Crooks Park, at the south end of Mtn.View Ave., on the border of Loma Linda and Bryn Mawr. Exit 10 east at Mtn. View and procede south. ALL are welcome. A good time for your children to play with their friends and for you to have some adult time. BYO food and beverage. For more info, please call me at (909) 499-5521. [Julie]
- I'm back at the house on Crest Forest Dr. again. It's martial law up here right now. The police are stopping cars and questioning people, looking out for looters. They have told me to either stay home or leave the mountain. That put a lid on my plans of checking on peoples' houses and animals. With the exception of 4 or 5 houses on Valley View off Playground, all of Valley View Park appears to be OK. If anyone has any needs for me to check on homes or pets in the immediate area (where I can walk to) in the vicinity of Crest Forest and Playground, you can call me at 338-1495. Please, only call for any requests within this immediate area. I ran into Woody this afternoon. His business is doing great! He is a very happy bar owner. [Dominique Dieken]
- Homes were spared at the earlier fire site of Yosemite & Yellowstone in Lake Arrowhead!
- Has anyone heard about a fire in Twin Peaks threatening the east end of Lake Gregory-Valley of the Moon and Dart Cyn? [Jane]
- I have been informed that the Lake Arrowhead Resort which was evac at 11:30pm last night is preparing to reopen as a command and rest center. Fingers crossed here. Best to all. [Phil]
- Between the Pea Soup and blocked up traffic, and downed trees, they are frustrated with transports.
- "I just returned from Job's Peak and things look great for all the homes that are south facing. I luckily received a ride with San Bernardino Police to feed my animals (I work at Mountain High). I received so many conflicting messages and the news coverage absolutely sucked! So I was determined to get a look at my house to see if it was still standing. My house is 21601 Peak Circle Dr. Every-house up to my house and three houses past my house survived. Unfortunately, the last two houses facing south on Peak Circle did not survive and the corner house across the street burnt also. We were stopped at the southwest corner of Peak Circle by a fireman. He said a fire truck was up ahead keeping an eye on hot-spots. It was really foggy and misty so it was hard to see beyond 100 feet. He said no concerns about the hot-spots on the north side of Job's Peak under the current conditions. I could not tell if any of the streets above Peak Circle Burned. I don't think so. I heard from people staying up there that it was all clear, but it seems to have gone around Jobs Peak Mountain on the West side and wrapped around to the north side above Lakeland View and Mozumdar and apparently headed south towards Silverwood Lake from there. I''m so sorry for those who lost homes there. I didn't get to verify what homes burned, but the fireman said it was pretty extensive below Peak Circle Dr. If there''s anything we can do for anyone in that area, let us know. I also saw many telephone poles heading up the mountain with wire coils and transistor boxes. Heard them say that they hoped to have everything back to normal in a week. I also overheard some police officers saying that they thought we would be able to return in 2 to 3 days, but I was just eavesdropping and that wasn't verified. God bless our mountain community. We are resilient people and everyone who is hurting right now, know that we all hurt with you and we will all get through this together, stronger. Now, maybe the GOV will do something about the trees. The firemen are all awesome in my eyes. I know they fought like hell and did their best for all of us. Thank you!" [Mark Warhol]
- Fire is being fought at the bottom of Running Springs School Rd near Seymour Rd. [Mike S.]
Mountain Residents can pick up their mail at 195 Del Rosa in San Bernardino! That is at the SB International Airport near the shelter. Pick it up from 11am-6pm through 11/7/03.
- I heard that it was clear up there... around the Yellowstone and Yosemite intersection (the one closest to 173) but it was a very close call. They saved it when the battle for the hospital was won. I think. But they are saying that the fire is going NE. [Mike S]
Posted at 06:24 PM Read More
Thursday PM Updates after 14:00 (PDT)
New link: KBHR 93.3 Big
Bear Radio Broadcasting
Another link: FireUpdate.com
New link for Rim School District
Prayer website link.
Another website for updates.
Check this picture out; Thank you Lynda!
Another link: FireUpdate.com
New link for Rim School District
Prayer website link.
Another website for updates.
Check this picture out; Thank you Lynda!
- I am stepping out
for a bit (apartment hunting and shopping for clothes, etc). I will be back for
the evening. Stay tuned to the scanner and message boards! Email me posts that
must be posted later. Good luck to everyone involved; you know my heart is with
everyone.
--JoeUrbz
- Media traffic causing problems at CHE.
- They are above the Church of the Woods and around the corner from LK Arrowhead Elementary School and near the UCLA conference center. Anything you can find out would be great. [Kim, 2pm]
- The plume of smoke is being affected by the swirling winds, to the point of watching it possibly drop within the next hour. Keep an eye on this when watching the TV coverage. If anyone can further explain this for our readers, email me. (I take the TV part back; there are NO channels covering the fires as of 1pm; Soaps and Judge programs are more important.)
- FYI: The bottom of Miller Canyon is at Silverwood Lake near the Pilot Rock Conservation Camp at Hwy 138. Dart Canyon dirt road intersects near here. At the top of Miller Canyon is Tunnel 2 dirt road, with access points on Sonoma near Brentwood, and on Fairway Dr. in the Walnut Hills area. [Jon]
- Awesome update page, check it out from crestlinekathy: Click here.
- If anyone knows of someone that has a need such as clothing, toys, household items have them or yourselves contact me by email mtnjpr@juno.com or by phone 909-553-2686 or 909-208-1779. I will do what I can. Also if you have stuff to give contact me and I will get you in touch with those in need. [Chuck T.]
- We hope the Rim High Band members have found their way "home". Thank you to the volunteers during this unfortunate situation. If not, please contact Sultana HS for more details. [B.M.]
Fires in progress: Yosemite/Yellowstone area (holding it off; still going) Keller Peak, Twin Peaks (no specifics), Miller Canyon, back side of CPP, and Job's Peak. In Cedar Glen, many homes that were saved were ones that had their bark beetle trees and pine brush removed. 40 homes have been lost in Cedar Pines Park; 350 in Cedar Glen. Flare up in Silverwood and now near a creek in Running Springs where it is being established. [12:47pm]
- Emergency supplies are needed for firefighters, such as leather gloves, chapstick, people/trucks for transport ... meeting at 40th & Waterman. More details coming soon for tonight.
- Mail Update: Hi, I’m Jacqui from Skyland. I work a block away from the Post Office in Redlands that is supposed to be our temporary PO. The clerk told me this morning that the post office will have trailers set up at Norton tomorrow for our mail delivery. Hope this clarifies.
- The target date for school re-opening is November 12, 2003.
- I just called AWUA and they verified that Rose Lane off 189 is intact. Posts will be on the message boards. [webmaster]
- Grandview and Fairway are in good shape as of this morning. I live on GV. Our neighbor, a fire fighter, is still standing ground there and giving us updates. [Nancy J.]
- Crestline Update: There is definitely no damage in and around Lake Gregory, San Moritz, Horst, and downtown as of very early this morning. [Eyewitness verification.]
- Verizon number 1-800-483-4000 They are offering FREE voice mail or call forwarding to evacuated customers. [Guylene]
- Also, be aware of your mortgage companies. As much as Gray Davis and other officials tout all the financial resources for evacuees, our own loan companies (such as Countrywide) AND credit card companies are not really being helpful, since most of their offices are not in southern CA. If you have any insight on this, please email me.
- To Eric Spillman from KTLA5: Thank you for your support! Can you please be a little more specific by using landmarks, town names, and/or street junctions when covering areas. Locals are aware not all reporters know the area well, but after all these days, the generalization of areas is getting frustrating. We appreciate ANY extra details you can offer your viewers. [Dale and other viewer feedback]
- "THURSDAY MORNING: ALPINE WATER USERS ASSOCIATION SERVICE AREA. VERY FOGGY, COLD, DRIZZLING AND SLIGHT RAIN. NO POWER. NO STRUCTURES OR FOREST HAS BEEN DESTROYED. FIRE BURNED TO THE BASE OF THE STRAWBERRY PEAK LOOKOUT. WE SURE HOPE THIS HELPS AND WISH YOU ALL HOME SOON. PLEASE PASS THE WORD. THIS POSTING IS MADE FROM THE AWUA OFFICE. ROSE LANE AND STATE HWY 189. P. BRODA GENERAL MANAGER, G. ADAMS FIELD MANAGER. OUR VERY BEST TO ALL." [message board]
- They have sent the insurance assessment teams into Waterman Canyon and other areas when the weather opens up. Current lists should be available this afternoon for Waterman Canyon and they should be posted at the local evacuation centers. You can no longer call for information.
- Cedar Glen Area: CHP arrived with 20 cars to evacuate animals. Please check local evacuation sites and local animal shelters. for more information.
- Media traffic causing problems at CHE.
- They are above the Church of the Woods and around the corner from LK Arrowhead Elementary School and near the UCLA conference center. Anything you can find out would be great. [Kim, 2pm]
- The plume of smoke is being affected by the swirling winds, to the point of watching it possibly drop within the next hour. Keep an eye on this when watching the TV coverage. If anyone can further explain this for our readers, email me. (I take the TV part back; there are NO channels covering the fires as of 1pm; Soaps and Judge programs are more important.)
- FYI: The bottom of Miller Canyon is at Silverwood Lake near the Pilot Rock Conservation Camp at Hwy 138. Dart Canyon dirt road intersects near here. At the top of Miller Canyon is Tunnel 2 dirt road, with access points on Sonoma near Brentwood, and on Fairway Dr. in the Walnut Hills area. [Jon]
- Awesome update page, check it out from crestlinekathy: Click here.
- If anyone knows of someone that has a need such as clothing, toys, household items have them or yourselves contact me by email mtnjpr@juno.com or by phone 909-553-2686 or 909-208-1779. I will do what I can. Also if you have stuff to give contact me and I will get you in touch with those in need. [Chuck T.]
- We hope the Rim High Band members have found their way "home". Thank you to the volunteers during this unfortunate situation. If not, please contact Sultana HS for more details. [B.M.]
Fires in progress: Yosemite/Yellowstone area (holding it off; still going) Keller Peak, Twin Peaks (no specifics), Miller Canyon, back side of CPP, and Job's Peak. In Cedar Glen, many homes that were saved were ones that had their bark beetle trees and pine brush removed. 40 homes have been lost in Cedar Pines Park; 350 in Cedar Glen. Flare up in Silverwood and now near a creek in Running Springs where it is being established. [12:47pm]
- Emergency supplies are needed for firefighters, such as leather gloves, chapstick, people/trucks for transport ... meeting at 40th & Waterman. More details coming soon for tonight.
- Mail Update: Hi, I’m Jacqui from Skyland. I work a block away from the Post Office in Redlands that is supposed to be our temporary PO. The clerk told me this morning that the post office will have trailers set up at Norton tomorrow for our mail delivery. Hope this clarifies.
- The target date for school re-opening is November 12, 2003.
- I just called AWUA and they verified that Rose Lane off 189 is intact. Posts will be on the message boards. [webmaster]
- Grandview and Fairway are in good shape as of this morning. I live on GV. Our neighbor, a fire fighter, is still standing ground there and giving us updates. [Nancy J.]
- Crestline Update: There is definitely no damage in and around Lake Gregory, San Moritz, Horst, and downtown as of very early this morning. [Eyewitness verification.]
- Verizon number 1-800-483-4000 They are offering FREE voice mail or call forwarding to evacuated customers. [Guylene]
- Also, be aware of your mortgage companies. As much as Gray Davis and other officials tout all the financial resources for evacuees, our own loan companies (such as Countrywide) AND credit card companies are not really being helpful, since most of their offices are not in southern CA. If you have any insight on this, please email me.
- To Eric Spillman from KTLA5: Thank you for your support! Can you please be a little more specific by using landmarks, town names, and/or street junctions when covering areas. Locals are aware not all reporters know the area well, but after all these days, the generalization of areas is getting frustrating. We appreciate ANY extra details you can offer your viewers. [Dale and other viewer feedback]
- "THURSDAY MORNING: ALPINE WATER USERS ASSOCIATION SERVICE AREA. VERY FOGGY, COLD, DRIZZLING AND SLIGHT RAIN. NO POWER. NO STRUCTURES OR FOREST HAS BEEN DESTROYED. FIRE BURNED TO THE BASE OF THE STRAWBERRY PEAK LOOKOUT. WE SURE HOPE THIS HELPS AND WISH YOU ALL HOME SOON. PLEASE PASS THE WORD. THIS POSTING IS MADE FROM THE AWUA OFFICE. ROSE LANE AND STATE HWY 189. P. BRODA GENERAL MANAGER, G. ADAMS FIELD MANAGER. OUR VERY BEST TO ALL." [message board]
- They have sent the insurance assessment teams into Waterman Canyon and other areas when the weather opens up. Current lists should be available this afternoon for Waterman Canyon and they should be posted at the local evacuation centers. You can no longer call for information.
- Cedar Glen Area: CHP arrived with 20 cars to evacuate animals. Please check local evacuation sites and local animal shelters. for more information.
Posted at 06:09 AM Read More
Wed - October 29, 2003
Wed Evening after 10:38 pm (PDT)
I am going to take a
break right now; things are slow on the
scanner.
I will be back later tonight. Keep me posted with emails.
Sorry for leaving. Had to look for a place to live & other responsibilities.
New website for posting messages, CLICK HERE
I will be back later tonight. Keep me posted with emails.
Sorry for leaving. Had to look for a place to live & other responsibilities.
New website for posting messages, CLICK HERE
- Rim School District
met today, plans are underway to get back to work, another meeting will be held
on Monday. We want to get the kids back in school, and the teachers teaching
ASAP. [Greg
Izay]
- Please share some confirmed reports about the fire in Lake Arrowhead. What is the synopsis or expectations? I have read so many different reports ranging from message boards to KFI radio. Please email me with info to post.
- Strike Teams in RimWood (CHE) to protect the school. More strike teams and resources are available for the fire fight at the school. They are going to try to redirect the fire between divisions. They need the weather to cooperate for this move. The fire is WEST of Keller Peak. They are hoping the weather will help it lie down. Right now, it is on the ridge.
- [webmaster: I must say the TV coverage of the Evacuation Centers has become much better. It is good to see people with hope and generosity for one another, especially with that many people. I would hope they cover the other centers as well.]
- At the high school, heavy fog with moisture in the air. Lots of equipment that needs to be coordinated. However, transportation is around 5pm. For those who know the fog on the mountain, you know what that means!
- The computer at Strawberry Peak is up and running.
- Crestline Updates: 7 homes lost on Lake View at Job's Peak; unknown about details in Cedar Pines Park. Misty windshields (humidity going up). Fire in Lake Arrowhead flanking the hospital on the SE and NE. It's coming up the back of 173 where the Willow Fire had been (2 yrs ago). It was coming up the Grandview area, but they are holding it off. No confirmation of distance toward the back of Grandview. The fireman that visited the Stockade stated that structure protection was doing ok for now.
- If you are standing on the north shore of lake gregory and you look up and around at the surrounding hillsides east, north, west, south-this is Crestline. All is well. No fire at all. Only in Cedar Pines Park deep canyons where there are homes. So yes, San Moritz, Switzerland, Mile High, Top Town, VOE, Knapps Cuttoff, Skyland and CPP to the southeast: all is well. Ken is racing around like crazy, checking all areas and there is not one ember to be found at this time. I am waiting for his next update, but until then, I a going to take a little break! Take heart Crestline! We have had amazing grace thus far! [Heather C.]
- Injured firefighter in CrestForest; minor to moderate - will be ok.
- Any updates from Silverwood or Twin Peaks? Please email me immediately.
- There is an active thread on freerepublic.com that has been posting stuff heard on the scanner feed.
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/news/1010251/posts?page=2567
You can find the current thread, it changes around midnight to a new day.
- There are fires in Twin Peaks that are active. I do not have any specific areas. Strawberry Peak has been burned twice. The fire did dip down into Bear Springs Rd. I do not know how deep. [383-5688]
- My dad is currently at his office/house on Apache Trail. He says that none of the homes on Apache Trail have been burned. He is at the house with my uncle (formerly a mountain fire captain) and they say that because of the burn area, that the homes around apache trail are not in any immediate danger. I hope this will ease some minds. [Josh]
- Fire is running north, not toward Keller Peak, probably go through Snow Valley and Bear Creek. [scanner]
- Reading some of the message board archives, many posted that there was ANOTHER fire at Strawberry Peak. Will someone fill me on this and give me an update? Scanner: Strawberry Peak fire was an intense fight. Any confirmed updates for Twin Peaks?
- We have been told by somebody that stayed behind in Rim Forest that our homes are standing in Agua Fria, so is The Cottage restaurant and Rim Lumber. [message board, 7:01pm]
- Scanner: Wind advisories for all sections... 30-40 mph with 50 mph gusts.
- Earthquakes earlier this afternoon, bigger one in Simi Valley (3.7).
- Please share some confirmed reports about the fire in Lake Arrowhead. What is the synopsis or expectations? I have read so many different reports ranging from message boards to KFI radio. Please email me with info to post.
- Strike Teams in RimWood (CHE) to protect the school. More strike teams and resources are available for the fire fight at the school. They are going to try to redirect the fire between divisions. They need the weather to cooperate for this move. The fire is WEST of Keller Peak. They are hoping the weather will help it lie down. Right now, it is on the ridge.
- [webmaster: I must say the TV coverage of the Evacuation Centers has become much better. It is good to see people with hope and generosity for one another, especially with that many people. I would hope they cover the other centers as well.]
- At the high school, heavy fog with moisture in the air. Lots of equipment that needs to be coordinated. However, transportation is around 5pm. For those who know the fog on the mountain, you know what that means!
- The computer at Strawberry Peak is up and running.
- Crestline Updates: 7 homes lost on Lake View at Job's Peak; unknown about details in Cedar Pines Park. Misty windshields (humidity going up). Fire in Lake Arrowhead flanking the hospital on the SE and NE. It's coming up the back of 173 where the Willow Fire had been (2 yrs ago). It was coming up the Grandview area, but they are holding it off. No confirmation of distance toward the back of Grandview. The fireman that visited the Stockade stated that structure protection was doing ok for now.
- If you are standing on the north shore of lake gregory and you look up and around at the surrounding hillsides east, north, west, south-this is Crestline. All is well. No fire at all. Only in Cedar Pines Park deep canyons where there are homes. So yes, San Moritz, Switzerland, Mile High, Top Town, VOE, Knapps Cuttoff, Skyland and CPP to the southeast: all is well. Ken is racing around like crazy, checking all areas and there is not one ember to be found at this time. I am waiting for his next update, but until then, I a going to take a little break! Take heart Crestline! We have had amazing grace thus far! [Heather C.]
- Injured firefighter in CrestForest; minor to moderate - will be ok.
- Any updates from Silverwood or Twin Peaks? Please email me immediately.
- There is an active thread on freerepublic.com that has been posting stuff heard on the scanner feed.
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/news/1010251/posts?page=2567
You can find the current thread, it changes around midnight to a new day.
- There are fires in Twin Peaks that are active. I do not have any specific areas. Strawberry Peak has been burned twice. The fire did dip down into Bear Springs Rd. I do not know how deep. [383-5688]
- My dad is currently at his office/house on Apache Trail. He says that none of the homes on Apache Trail have been burned. He is at the house with my uncle (formerly a mountain fire captain) and they say that because of the burn area, that the homes around apache trail are not in any immediate danger. I hope this will ease some minds. [Josh]
- Fire is running north, not toward Keller Peak, probably go through Snow Valley and Bear Creek. [scanner]
- Reading some of the message board archives, many posted that there was ANOTHER fire at Strawberry Peak. Will someone fill me on this and give me an update? Scanner: Strawberry Peak fire was an intense fight. Any confirmed updates for Twin Peaks?
- We have been told by somebody that stayed behind in Rim Forest that our homes are standing in Agua Fria, so is The Cottage restaurant and Rim Lumber. [message board, 7:01pm]
- Scanner: Wind advisories for all sections... 30-40 mph with 50 mph gusts.
- Earthquakes earlier this afternoon, bigger one in Simi Valley (3.7).
Posted at 06:55 PM Read More
Afternoon Updates after 1:39 pm (PDT)
- Lake Papoose:
Little Bear Creek
and the County wood dump behind Mtns Community Hospital are imminently
threatened. They are fighting it now. The dump is burning up now with all the
dead wood. The crane copter is in use. [Rick Chambers,
NBC4]
- Twin Peaks: "This is confirmed info all is well and no homes have burned from the Shell gas station all the way to North road to the county buildings on Grandview all buildings are safe as of this minute again. This is confirmed by a direct phone call. [1:05pm]
- "Here's the latest; I was able to get my hands on 21 more cases of MREs this morning and met my new friends Steve, Mary, and their friend Ingo at the base of the hill. They had several cases of water as well. We loaded their two trucks up and got through the check point. We drove to Devils Canyon where there were a few small hot spots that we put down shovels Steve & Mary had brought. Then we proceeded to one of their friends house were the fire had burnt right up to the wall but was stopped there. But behind us toward Cedar Pines we could see fire. We split up at that point. Ingo and I went to Station 25 at Top Town to drop of some food and water where he ran into a friend of his. THE BAD NEWS; his friend said that it looked like Cedar Pines may be a lost cause and even the rallying point at the station would most likely be moving. He complained about lack of air support. THE GOOD NEWS; right after we left the station we witnessed two water dropping helicopters headed toward Cedar Pines area. In addition the fire that had crested Strawberry Peak and was headed down toward Lake Gregory was put out." [Garold Cole]
- Cedar Pines Park is now burning up as a whole.
- There are conflicting reports about structures in Twin Peaks burning, even AFTER calling the Twin Peaks dispatchers. Please advise with further CONFIRMED information.
- Running Springs: They need the fire NOT to cross the dozer lines. The fire is starting to crown near Nob Hill.
- Still no confirmation about any RimForest flare ups.
- ABC7: fire behind Mountains Community Hospital, behind vacant field where dead logs are stored.
- The Silverwood fire is still going.
- The fire around Squints Ranch continues toward Big Bear.
- Cedar Glen is burning, as shown on TV.
- Any news about Rimforest (the ACTUAL lumber yard)?? Posts on the message board claim fires have ignited. Any eyewitness reports about Twin Peaks and Blue Jay would be so welcomed. We have not heard much about the back of Crestline's fire possibly leading to the back of Grandview. Please advise with some confirmed reports. Please email me with posts.
- An attempt to isolate a fire in area of 138 and Cedar Pines Park. [scanner]
- Twin Peaks: "This is confirmed info all is well and no homes have burned from the Shell gas station all the way to North road to the county buildings on Grandview all buildings are safe as of this minute again. This is confirmed by a direct phone call. [1:05pm]
- "Here's the latest; I was able to get my hands on 21 more cases of MREs this morning and met my new friends Steve, Mary, and their friend Ingo at the base of the hill. They had several cases of water as well. We loaded their two trucks up and got through the check point. We drove to Devils Canyon where there were a few small hot spots that we put down shovels Steve & Mary had brought. Then we proceeded to one of their friends house were the fire had burnt right up to the wall but was stopped there. But behind us toward Cedar Pines we could see fire. We split up at that point. Ingo and I went to Station 25 at Top Town to drop of some food and water where he ran into a friend of his. THE BAD NEWS; his friend said that it looked like Cedar Pines may be a lost cause and even the rallying point at the station would most likely be moving. He complained about lack of air support. THE GOOD NEWS; right after we left the station we witnessed two water dropping helicopters headed toward Cedar Pines area. In addition the fire that had crested Strawberry Peak and was headed down toward Lake Gregory was put out." [Garold Cole]
- Cedar Pines Park is now burning up as a whole.
- There are conflicting reports about structures in Twin Peaks burning, even AFTER calling the Twin Peaks dispatchers. Please advise with further CONFIRMED information.
- Running Springs: They need the fire NOT to cross the dozer lines. The fire is starting to crown near Nob Hill.
- Still no confirmation about any RimForest flare ups.
- ABC7: fire behind Mountains Community Hospital, behind vacant field where dead logs are stored.
- The Silverwood fire is still going.
- The fire around Squints Ranch continues toward Big Bear.
- Cedar Glen is burning, as shown on TV.
- Any news about Rimforest (the ACTUAL lumber yard)?? Posts on the message board claim fires have ignited. Any eyewitness reports about Twin Peaks and Blue Jay would be so welcomed. We have not heard much about the back of Crestline's fire possibly leading to the back of Grandview. Please advise with some confirmed reports. Please email me with posts.
- An attempt to isolate a fire in area of 138 and Cedar Pines Park. [scanner]
Posted at 12:25 PM Read More
Wednesday Morning Updates after 12:10 pm (PDT)
New website: San Bernardino Fire
Information
- Report on Ch 4 showed
Bill Smith from the Fire Department standing in front of the Fire Station on the
18, by the water company - smoke to the west - fire is in Deep Creek. Major
stand successful to keep the fire west of the 330. Reporter is standing in/near
Green Valley Lake.
[Vicki]
Unconfirmed:
- "I called Channel 7 News and they do not care to cover the Twin Peaks areas nor the Cliffhanger area." [Tess]
- "The SBSO has told them if they pull stunts like that again they will be kicked off the mountain. ABC7 informed that they no longer had a desire to provide coverage whatsoever for the San Bernardino fires." [email]
- [webmaster: I guess the professionalism of the firefighters is too much for some tv people.]
- "Received a call from a friend of the family who is a Captain for the Fire Dept. He was assigned to Twin Peaks. At 7:00am they were ordered to evacuate the city of Twin Peaks for their own protection. I am truly sorry for the bad news." [Jeff]
- You could call Channel 5 (KTLA), I heard that they are very flexible and are willing to get what you need on the screen. [message board]
- Scanner: Twin Peaks Sheriff Substation being evacuted...all weapons and ammunition being moved to secondary command post.
- Evaluating the back of Crestline (Cottonwood and CPP). Not good. The front side of Crestline seems to in the clear. [The Stockade]
- Fire approaching Squints Ranch (NE of Lake Arrowhead, outside of Cedar Glen), Bacon Flats, and Hook Creek. [KCAL9]
- No equipment in the Pilot Rock facility. Also, no crews in Cedar Pines Park. The fire is in the Old Willow Fire (2 yrs ago) area. [scanner]
- "GVL, the view from a rock point, overlooking Arrowhead, the fire moved from Heaps Peak north to the old burn area from 4 years ago. My brother in law who was a Hotshot and has fought over 200 fires said he had never seen a fire move so fast. It burned through the trees in a blink, like a flash fire. GVL is ok for now, but now sitting between two fires. The fire seems be going around GVL but could change with wind shift. Firefighters gathering in GVL in case winds shift." [Jeff]
- An ABC7 reporter decided to interrupt a strike force meeting to ask the "same old common sense" questions. Let them WORK! Scanner: Reporters at RHS are really concerning the crews up there. Some reporters screwed up yesterday with understanding safety.
- Channel 9 is reporting that the fire is now again moving rapidly towards Lake Arrowhead. [message board, unconfirmed, someone email me a confirmation]
- The visual on TV show the flames at the backside of Crestline are HUGE; the helicopter crew could hear the rumbling of the fire and dead trees falling. Seems like every 3rd tree is dead and it is crowning. Serious concerns and frustrations by the crews.
-Running Springs: The fire went across 18 to the east of the crews and bumped 330 below them. More support coming.
- Concerns from readers: TV reporters keep giving an impression that the threat to Lake Arrowhead and Crestline has passed. For those listening to the scanners, this is far from the truth. We know that reporters are not allowed past the 5000ft level (somewhat due to Chuck Henry decision to push his report), so there is a not a lot of NEW information from them. They are only dramatically repeating the same stuff. (Message boards are filled with more questions than facts.) If you have any CONFIRMED reports, please share them.
- The fire is in Hesperia down by the tracks; it has "cranked like a freight train" over Crestline and is travelling FAST with severe visibility. It is not stopping. Other flanks of the fire (such as the threat of Grandview are also advancing) are not slowing down either. Evacuations in progress.
- Structure Threat: 138 & Summit Valley. There is a strike team on Summit Valley Rd. The fire has jumped Valley rd and the on both sides of the tracks; trying to notify to stop trains. (As we saw yesterday, trains don't stop for anything.)
- They are going with Hook Creek for a visual of a fire. Crews at the resorts are being prepped for possible last minute evacuations. The north side of the lake (UCLA Conf Ctr) is going to be protected. Route 173 is no longer a possible escape route. "If there is a hole, this fire will find it." [Scanner]
- Areas with imminent danger: Monument Peak and Sawpit, wrapped around the hillside at 138; completely surrounding Cedar Pines Park, Thousand Pines, and Mountain High Park. It is now approaching Grandview. The actual fire line is 4 miles wide. At 3am, there was an order to get the civilians out of the area. As of now, Lake Arrowhead was contained. Running Springs is now surrounded (crossing over at 4am; but there was the east side burning already). They are holding off the fire at Job's Peak at the Mozumdar Temple (unconfirmed). [resident in Crestline]
- One of the most powerful solar flares ever recorded erupted this morning near giant sunspot 486. The explosion hurled a coronal mass ejection (CME) directly toward Earth. Bright auroras could appear when the fast-moving cloud sweeps past our planet--perhaps as early as tonight. High-latitude sites such as New Zealand, Scandinavia, Alaska, Canada and US northern border states from Maine to Washington are favored, as usual, but auroras could descend to lower latitudes, too. Not all CMEs trigger auroras. Several, for instance, have swept past Earth in recent days without causing widespread displays. It all depends on the orientation of tangled magnetic fields within the electrified cloud of gas. This CME is no exception. It might cause auroras, or it might not. We will find out when it arrives. Stay tuned to SpaceWeather.com for updates. [Terry]
- Scanners: units ordered to use garden hoses to top off engine tanks until water tenders arrive. Calling for dozer crews at Manzanita Rd. Fire picking up just west of the helibase. [Scott]
- 10% containment; but still out of control.
Unconfirmed:
- "I called Channel 7 News and they do not care to cover the Twin Peaks areas nor the Cliffhanger area." [Tess]
- "The SBSO has told them if they pull stunts like that again they will be kicked off the mountain. ABC7 informed that they no longer had a desire to provide coverage whatsoever for the San Bernardino fires." [email]
- [webmaster: I guess the professionalism of the firefighters is too much for some tv people.]
- "Received a call from a friend of the family who is a Captain for the Fire Dept. He was assigned to Twin Peaks. At 7:00am they were ordered to evacuate the city of Twin Peaks for their own protection. I am truly sorry for the bad news." [Jeff]
- You could call Channel 5 (KTLA), I heard that they are very flexible and are willing to get what you need on the screen. [message board]
- Scanner: Twin Peaks Sheriff Substation being evacuted...all weapons and ammunition being moved to secondary command post.
- Evaluating the back of Crestline (Cottonwood and CPP). Not good. The front side of Crestline seems to in the clear. [The Stockade]
- Fire approaching Squints Ranch (NE of Lake Arrowhead, outside of Cedar Glen), Bacon Flats, and Hook Creek. [KCAL9]
- No equipment in the Pilot Rock facility. Also, no crews in Cedar Pines Park. The fire is in the Old Willow Fire (2 yrs ago) area. [scanner]
- "GVL, the view from a rock point, overlooking Arrowhead, the fire moved from Heaps Peak north to the old burn area from 4 years ago. My brother in law who was a Hotshot and has fought over 200 fires said he had never seen a fire move so fast. It burned through the trees in a blink, like a flash fire. GVL is ok for now, but now sitting between two fires. The fire seems be going around GVL but could change with wind shift. Firefighters gathering in GVL in case winds shift." [Jeff]
- An ABC7 reporter decided to interrupt a strike force meeting to ask the "same old common sense" questions. Let them WORK! Scanner: Reporters at RHS are really concerning the crews up there. Some reporters screwed up yesterday with understanding safety.
- Channel 9 is reporting that the fire is now again moving rapidly towards Lake Arrowhead. [message board, unconfirmed, someone email me a confirmation]
- The visual on TV show the flames at the backside of Crestline are HUGE; the helicopter crew could hear the rumbling of the fire and dead trees falling. Seems like every 3rd tree is dead and it is crowning. Serious concerns and frustrations by the crews.
-Running Springs: The fire went across 18 to the east of the crews and bumped 330 below them. More support coming.
- Concerns from readers: TV reporters keep giving an impression that the threat to Lake Arrowhead and Crestline has passed. For those listening to the scanners, this is far from the truth. We know that reporters are not allowed past the 5000ft level (somewhat due to Chuck Henry decision to push his report), so there is a not a lot of NEW information from them. They are only dramatically repeating the same stuff. (Message boards are filled with more questions than facts.) If you have any CONFIRMED reports, please share them.
- The fire is in Hesperia down by the tracks; it has "cranked like a freight train" over Crestline and is travelling FAST with severe visibility. It is not stopping. Other flanks of the fire (such as the threat of Grandview are also advancing) are not slowing down either. Evacuations in progress.
- Structure Threat: 138 & Summit Valley. There is a strike team on Summit Valley Rd. The fire has jumped Valley rd and the on both sides of the tracks; trying to notify to stop trains. (As we saw yesterday, trains don't stop for anything.)
- They are going with Hook Creek for a visual of a fire. Crews at the resorts are being prepped for possible last minute evacuations. The north side of the lake (UCLA Conf Ctr) is going to be protected. Route 173 is no longer a possible escape route. "If there is a hole, this fire will find it." [Scanner]
- Areas with imminent danger: Monument Peak and Sawpit, wrapped around the hillside at 138; completely surrounding Cedar Pines Park, Thousand Pines, and Mountain High Park. It is now approaching Grandview. The actual fire line is 4 miles wide. At 3am, there was an order to get the civilians out of the area. As of now, Lake Arrowhead was contained. Running Springs is now surrounded (crossing over at 4am; but there was the east side burning already). They are holding off the fire at Job's Peak at the Mozumdar Temple (unconfirmed). [resident in Crestline]
- One of the most powerful solar flares ever recorded erupted this morning near giant sunspot 486. The explosion hurled a coronal mass ejection (CME) directly toward Earth. Bright auroras could appear when the fast-moving cloud sweeps past our planet--perhaps as early as tonight. High-latitude sites such as New Zealand, Scandinavia, Alaska, Canada and US northern border states from Maine to Washington are favored, as usual, but auroras could descend to lower latitudes, too. Not all CMEs trigger auroras. Several, for instance, have swept past Earth in recent days without causing widespread displays. It all depends on the orientation of tangled magnetic fields within the electrified cloud of gas. This CME is no exception. It might cause auroras, or it might not. We will find out when it arrives. Stay tuned to SpaceWeather.com for updates. [Terry]
- Scanners: units ordered to use garden hoses to top off engine tanks until water tenders arrive. Calling for dozer crews at Manzanita Rd. Fire picking up just west of the helibase. [Scott]
- 10% containment; but still out of control.
Posted at 06:05 AM Read More
Updates since 5:15 pm (PDT)
Updates since 9:45am (PDT).
Updates since 3:45am (PDT)
Updates as of 11:50pm
Crestline update...
Updates as of 7:44pm (PDT).
Mandatory Evacuations and Updates
New Update from Brenda Meyer
Scanner updates after 12pm (PDT).
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Published On: Jan 03, 2004 04:49 PM
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Published On: Jan 03, 2004 04:49 PM