GG apologies for the late post, I woke up nauseated after another long day down the hill getting checked and tested again. Overall, this gal is doing better but this month has been tough.

So, my theory is that I got a bit dehydrated since I can’t think of any other reasons I might be, and don’t you go speculating either ‘cuz you’d be wrong!

One thing I’ve always had is strength of will and so since I had committed to go walking with a neighbor, I headed out to do so.

Not sure it was a mistake or not, for part of the walk I had temporary relief, but then when I got back I grabbed a small snack, drank a bunch of water and then hid back under the covers.

So, I know you are dying to know what is up–nothing much if truth be told but I’ll do my best.

Fish Wish

GG has tried to get local fishing experts to chime in here on the Fawnskin Flyer but despite my best efforts, nobody seems to come through…AND then, I was meandering around town visiting neighbors when I discovered an odd looking hat decoration on the hat of Mike Stephens.

At first I thought it was something that had lodged (or dropped) on the hat but when he got closer, I saw it clearly and then got the story.

One of the things I like about living here is that people are more interested in you than in what you do for a living etc., which means that you usually discover something amazing over time.

This weekend I learned some fascinating facts about these Fawnskin Folks.

Nope, not gonna tell. You need to keep reading the Flyer…

But, one of these revealed facts was that Mike won a lake record on a particular species of fish he caught here.

An official weigh-in got him the hook and a lot of goodies from some of the prestigious fishing sports companies.

So GG did a bit of investigative work for naught.

However, I did find this:

The Golden Hook Trophy was introduced in 1967 and has grown into what is perhaps the most prestigious sport anglers trophy in the world. (via Mustad)

So, other than that, I haven’t found the entire story yet but am guessing that award took hold and morphed into a tradition that began to appear in different places.

I’ve got a call into Alan Sharp and I am sure he will fill me in since that is where the award came from!

During my research I also discovered that you could get a fishing passport to keep track of your lifetime adventures.

I have to say, for the non-fishing person, as this is most interesting.

Don’t get me wrong, there was a time in my life when I was an aspiring young fisher woman but you’ll have to wait for that story to emerge.

Babes on Boards

Captain John’s Marina & Fawn Harbor (39369 North Shore Drive) is once again holding the popular, Babes on Boards. Women of all ages can be found learning how to paddle board and socializing every Thursday evening around 5:00pm. Bring a potluck item to share and join in the fun.

Wine, Whiskey & Chocolate

This Saturday, June 2, 2012 will be one of the pre-events for the Cowboy Gathering. Wine, Whiskey & Chocolate will be held at the Inn at Fawnskin (880 Canyon Drive) from 2:00pm until 5:00pm.

The event will feature wine tasting, hors d’oeuvres, fine whiskeys and elegant chocolate desserts. In addition, you will find both silent and live auctions.

Cost of the event? $30 per person Call (909) 380-1871 for reservations and information.

Pirate Faire

If you live near Pedersen’s (39115 Rim of the World Drive) brace yourselves because it is once again time for the Pirate Faire.

Battle and court re-enactments, stage shows and more will happen on Saturday, June 2, 2012 from 10:00am until 6:00pm.

See if the kids are up for the children’s pirate costume contest and keep an eye out for treasure hunts for all ages since there will be shopping, food and ale.

Tickets are available at the gate or online. For more details please call (909) 237-0448.

Discovery Center

Saturdays are a good time to learn how to kayak on a guided tour of Big Bear Lake. Take a quick paddling lesson and cruise the shore looking for wildlife for only $15. Children must be at least 10 years old and all children must be accompanied by an adult. Includes water and a snack. Limited to 14 people per tour so reservations are recommended.

Then on Sunday, kids can learn to make pine cone bird feeders. This event is free!

Call (909) 382-2790 for more information and to reserve your spot or click over to see the Discovery Center schedule.

On Tuesday, June 5, 2012 Venus will transit the sun. Gaze thorough filtered scopes compliments of the San Bernardino National Forest Association and the Recreation and Parks District are co-sponsoring the event. The telescopes will be available for viewing from about 2:45pm until sunset. Call (909) 866-9700 or (909)866-3437 for more information on viewing locations.

Fawnskin Folks have once again survived the Memorial Day weekend but many were suffering from seasonal allergies. Millions of people suffer from allergies and, just like tracking the weather, many look up the pollen count on a regular basis.

Around these parts we can both see and smell some of the culprits but a lot of people don’t understand why they react and others don’t.

Beats me, and although I have my theories, you can look that up yourself!

Basically, an allergic reaction gets triggered by microscopic, prickly intruders that enter the body. Mucous membrane cells attack and release chemicals, such as histamine, to get rid of the interlopers.

Reactions triggered by the body vary between individuals but allergy sufferers may experience watery eyes, sneezing, itching fatigue, headaches, congestion, swelling or have difficulty breathing.

Over the counter medications, or prescribed drugs, are designed to reduce the symptoms your body instigates. But rather than masking such problems, there are some other alternatives to naturally assist yourself.

In this series I’ll be sharing a few different options starting with a few common sense practices.

Allergy Reduction by Exterior Cleaning

Washing off surfaces outside the home can help a lot. My bird watching has made me diligent washing down the deck each morning and I’ve noticed a great difference between my responses and my neighbors. A quick wash down of your entry way can do a lot to keep allergens out. I tend to wash down the screens of windows and entry doors too.

Allergy Reduction by Interior Cleaning

Cleaning twice a year helps reduce those environmental irritants in your cabin or home. I like to start from the top and work down. Clear off fans, window & door frames, light fixtures and then hit surfaces. Blinds, shutters and curtains should be washed.

Many people use special filters in their vacuums to help reduce issues. This week a neighbor told me he was sneezing up a storm while cleaning up and discovered the bag wasn’t secure and so that was adding to the problem–change those bags more frequently this time of year.

Reduce Allergies with Personal Hygiene

As a general rule, I tend to use unscented everything since the body is bombarded by pollutants everywhere. However, a morning shower can help you get going and a quick rinse at night will remove any dander or pollen that is on your skin or in your hair.

Allergy Fighting Behavior Tips

• Wear a hat and sunglasses as barriers to many irritants when you are out.
• Take off shoes and leave them near the door or in the mudroom upon entry.
• Window fans can pull pollen indoors so try and overhead fan and run a Hepa filter to help reduce indoor allergies.
• If you drive, close the windows and turn on the air conditioner instead.
• Head out early for walks and limit your time outdoors during the worst times of year. When I was able to amble long distances, I was always stunned to see how the sunlight acted as a trigger for pollen and seed release.

Neti Pot for Allergies

When my pal first gave me a Neti pot as a holiday gag gift, I never knew how useful or helpful it could be. Just like the ocean helped me when I lived on the coast, the pot is used to simply rinse away allergens with saltwater.

Used for thousands of years in India, they look like Aladdin’s lamp. The concept is similar to using nasal spray since pollen grains get rinsed away. This means that using one helps reduce allergy symptoms and some forms of sinus congestion.

To flush sinuses, use between 1/4 to 1/2 of teaspoon of sea salt (noniodized) in 3/4 – 1 cup of warm water. Over a sink, cock your head to one side (forehead tilted lower than chin) and put the spout into one nostril while allowing the water to drain out the other nostril. Use about half of the solution, then repeat on the other side. Gently blow out each nostril to clear completely.

Neti pots can be found just about anywhere now but you can buy one online. I use mine when needed but if you have a lot of problems, use twice a day (am and pm) or after you come in from outdoor activities.

Okay, that is it for today but I’ll get into other allergy remedies in the next exciting installment.

So, another TOT?

Yep, for some reason a few people think that nothing ever happens around here but quite frankly, GG is having a hard time keeping up with this new publishing schedule because things keep happening and new info keeps arriving.

But first…yes, I shot the breaking action news video of the eagle on my way to the Fawnskin Post Office this morning.

What I like about small town living is that people take the time to enjoy nature and each other–usually.

PM Mike took a few seconds to come out to look at the bald eagle as did many of the postal customers.

The DWP guys took a short amble to take a look, then I saw someone pull over to watch, and another person got of the car with a camera to take snaps.

Life is good in Fawnskin!

Now GG has been busy with a new therapy this week. I am hoping to be back up to speed by the end of the summer but all the ups and downs have been tough.

To keep myself amused, I started birding (aka bird watching) because I got hooked on Jack (and no, I haven’t seen him lately) and now have all these birds bossing me around and using my deck as a party perch.

This morning I discovered ducks on my deck but this wasn’t like the flying fish that landed on my deck–these ducks have decided to adopt me.

Seriously, I have a pair of mallards and a pair of wood ducks that come up to visit daily.

They like the water and snacks–which seems a bit odd since they come up from the lake–but hey, who am I to complain?

I actually like the company.

Then, many of you know about my animal talents but this am the birds alerted me to a new kitten in the neighborhood.

Did you know Fawnskin is the original breeding ground for the rare and elusive, tree kittens.

GG got an action shot but this sweet little thing came down out of the tree for a visit–and then I thought perhaps it was better she was in the tree based on the fact that she could become coyote or hawk bait.

Yep, gonna go visit the neighbors to suggest they keep her in.

Fun in Fawnskin

Fawnskin is always fun but Jim & Janet Dooley have something good happening starting tomorrow.

May 25-26, 2012 they are doing that Fawnskin Co-Op thing at North Shore Trading Company (39130 North Shore Drive next to the Post Office).

There will be organic cappuccino and espresso, ice cream, lemonade and a whole lot more.

Plus, you’ll find some digital magic if you need photos, film, VHS, or vinyls transferred to digital.

Of course there will be music and more. GG thinks they should have told me–and I’m likely to show up despite the fact I don’t rate!

What’s Cookin’ at Moose Lodge 2085?

So, holidays mean that Moose Lodge 2085 is gonna be cooking up a storm. Members slow cook meat on a spit all day so visitors and locals can munch a bunch at night.

The feast is set for Saturday, May 26, 2012 no time given but usually it is ready sometime after 3:00pm.

Not sure that I’ll make it down there but I am thinking about it.

Doo Dah Parade

Mark your calendars for July 28, 2012 at 10:00am for the annual Doo Dah Parade.

Applications this year can be obtained at Moose Lodge 2025 or you can call Wayne at (909) 556-1567.

Okay, GG has more but I gotta go!

Instead of enjoying the frivolity in Fawnskin, GG was over at the main Amgen event in Big Bear Lake.

Why? I had a lapse of sanity and when my pal pleaded with me to assist the event office, I gave in.

So, I spent the day in the insanity instead of on my deck in a comfy chair with a nicer environment and the amenities of home.

Personally, I thought I’d have some time to spend with her but instead learned a lot about some of the guests and vendors.

My favorite? Strider Bikes.

The best marketing in the opinion of the crowd? Nissan

The worst? Spy Optic. Why? Because their young male rep told me that they needed strippers and more pretty girls at the event in response to my inquiry on how the event was for them as vendors.

Glad I was wearing my Native Eyewear.

Besides being in poor taste, the reality is that most of the crowd I was busy interviewing tended to be super sports fans made up of couples and families with kids.

Of course there were groups of younger adults but they were mixed and were there for the sports event not for strippers.

Anyway, GG tends to avoid crowds these days for a reason and I think that event will fill that quota of social interactions for the year.

Yard Sales in Fawnskin
It is hard to believe that we are already heading into the Memorial Day holiday. One of the neighbors on Mohawk cleaned up at their yard sale last weekend.

GG’s attempts at yard sales always seem to flop but I am thinking about it again. But, so far I am three for three when it comes to having snow or rain if I plan on one.

I have a great parking pad so if any of you want to join the fun perhaps we should have a community sale?

The Reid & Shaya Davis Wedding
So, GG promised you some photos of the recent wedding that too Postmaster Mike out of Fawnskin and down into the big city of Anaheim.

Although the event was tiring, it was a great, happy celebration. Deena and Mike spent a couple of days recovering and Mike graciously shared these photos so you could see too.

Clean Up
This just in…mark your calendar for June 2, 2012 from 8:00am until Noon. Meet at Dana Point Park.

So, Snoop Sister Deb sent this over to me. I have a Robin nesting under the eaves so wonder if it is a hint that I need a web cam!

In the meantime, enjoy.

GG is currently reviewing films for the Big Bear International Film Festival this fall but I have not seen this yet!

As for Jordan, I used to see him regularly in the local’s gathering for Sunday breakfast but you can head over and meet “the youngest climber to scale Mt. Everest and the famed Seven Summits” this Saturday, May 19, 2012 at 1:30pm.

In case you missed any of GG’s previous coverage:

• Jordan Romero of Fawnskin – Everest
• Jordan Romero Local Boy Does Good – Seven Summits
• Jordan Romero Book Wins Award

The Lake Arrowhead Film Festival, runs from May 18 – 20, 2012 at the Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa and this year is the festival’s 13th anniversary.

Events begin at 10:00am Friday, May 18, 2012 and an estimated 2000 film-lovers, filmmakers and celebrities are expected to attend.

Highlights?

• A Filmmakers Reception will take place on Friday, May 18 at 6:00pm and will be hosted by actor Ernie Hudson.
• The Sunday Filmmaker Awards Luncheon will be hosted by actor Christopher McDonald.
• N. Bird Runningwater from the Sundance Institute will also be honored on Sunday for his outstanding contribution to Native American film.

Friday

• A free screening of family film, Mickey Matson and The Copperhead Conspiracy will air on Friday May 18th at 4:00pm.
• At 8:00pm view the Warner Bros. documentary Charlton Heston & Ben-Hur: A Personal Journey followed by Q&A with Executive Producer Fraser C. Heston.
• Then at 10:00pm there will be a Red Carpet Event and West Coast Premiere of The Last Gamble.

Saturday Gala

The Gala Awards Dinner at the Lake Arrowhead Resort & Spa Ballroom will take place on Saturday, May 19th at 5:30pm honoring Director and Producer Rod Holcomb, Weathercaster Fritz Coleman and Academy Award nominated actress Kathleen Quinlan.

Sunday

Free screenings of all award-winning films take place on Sunday, May 20th starting at 2:30pm

To see the schedule and get more information or tickets visit the Lake Arrowhead Film Festival.

Okay, so this week I am doing the TOT on Tuesday instead of Thursday–mainly because there is a lot of info to get to you and then simply because I can do what I want–which is one of the benefits of being editor-in-chief!

Eric of Bear Valley Electric gave me the scoop on the happenings around town.

New electrical poles are going in and work will continue in Fawnskin until the end of May which is why the North Shore delays have been making locals grumpy but at least the flagging crews are polite.

GG especially likes when they smile and wave.

What you need to know is that an interruption of electric service scheduled to take place this Wednesday, May 16, 2012 from 9:00am until 2:00pm on Garden Place, Brookside Lane and Lodge. Homes closest to the junction will be affected.

Neighbors in those areas should have received red notices alerting you to the outage.

GG had her computer blown up a few years back when a electric pole was moved and no alerts were given.

So, you’ve been warned! Consider unplugging some of your more delicate electronics–just in case.

Eric was nice enough to let me take the nice breaking news action photo while I delayed his task of delivering those notices.

You know how I get when I’ve been locked in the cabin too long!

New to the valley since January, he should check with some of the other utility workers around these parts about the perks of being cooperative with GG since a mention in the Fawnskin Flyer is usually good for some beer or something similar.

Plus, BVES now knows that he was on the job and doing a fine PR job for them putting up with talkin’ to GG.

He also mentioned that there will be no road blocks from them this Friday due to the Amgen Tour–nor will there be any road action from BVES on May 28th–being a holiday and all.

Thanks for being a good sport and humoring me Eric. (BTW you should read the Mountain Folk Dating Criteria if you are not hooked up already–fair warning.)

Jeep Jeep

So, Fawnskin Folks RD and Mike headed off on a jeep excursion to explore part of the Mormon Trail.

The duo took off on about a 12 day adventure into some pretty knarly country. Both survived just fine.

Of the nine jeeps that headed out for the extreme adventure, only five actually navigated through the roughest terrain to see how folks traveled in the olden days.

When you think about how they cut through the rock, tunneled and created pathways by hauling dirt and rocks–well, it is just pretty darn amazing.

Truth be told, we are all wimps in comparison.

Mike made it back just fine and I am hoping for some great action shots if I can get him to cough them up!

In the meantime, you can check out some of the interesting info on the Mormon Trail pioneers!

• Mormon Trail National Park Service
• Hole in the Rock Trail
• Hole in the Rock Trail Off Road Photos
• Mormon Trail TV
• Mormon Pioneer Videos
• Which Mike?

So another Mike, our Postmaster, and his wife made it back after heading down the hill to party it up during the marriage of their daughter.

Although he was a bit tuckered out after the event, he was back at work on Monday.

Sadly, he missed the weekend adventures that delayed the mail sorting but that is something he will just have to live with.

And yes, the Fawnskin Post Office still reeks of that nasty oil treatment that went up last week which should help keep the building in fair shape despite the snow, sleet and sun.

Wind in the Willows

So this last weekend was a good example of spring pollination.

All the plants have been blooming and throwing out seeds or pollen–so if you have been sneezin’ that is the reason.

Don’t ‘cha love when GG tries poetry?

Never mind…

So, if you are not on the mountain at the moment, enjoy the snaps I took to show you all the nice scenery here in Fawnskin.

As for Jack, well GG misses him but is glad he is so busy that I haven’t been able to spot him.

I have however been watching an Osprey, Cooper’s hawk and assorted avian brethren in his absence.

But to tell you the truth…it ain’t the same!

I’ll be back on Thursday even though I have to travel down the hill, you’ll find something here.

Fawnskin is pretty in pink since the cherry blossoms have been making their grand appearance.

In some areas, they have already bloomed and changed–but in other locations, such as this one, they are still buzzing with bees as pollination takes place–which might be why you are sneezing.

Over at GG’s Grotto I have a lot of apple and pear blossoms. The lilacs have bloomed but are very dark this year.

My Aspen buds have finally opened up–and I am hoping we don’t have any freezes until they stabilize since that type of late event can ruin the crop for the year.

Postal

Post Master Mike is off for his daughter’s wedding this weekend and GG hopes to have breaking news photos from the event soon.

This wedding has been keeping him busy and the family is excited about it for some time.

However, PM Mike has been talking about the possibility of a five day delivery week for a while. In case you missed it, the US Postal Service hit the news yesterday.

Postmaster General Patrick Donahoe indicated that no post office closures were likely. However, more rural mail facilities could see reduced hours of operations.

The Postal Service is exploring options and anticipates completing the research by September 2014 with the goal of saving an estimated half billion dollars annually.

Under the new plan, communities would be given the option of keeping their area post offices open but at reduced hours. USPS is pushing for Congress to pass legislation that would allow the agency to move forward on its multi-billion dollar cost-cutting plan, which includes an end to Saturday mail delivery.

Rural communities such as Fawnskin are concerned over proposed cuts include ability to get timely mail delivery of prescription drugs, newspapers, etc., during this election year.

Don’t go postal…read more at NPR or the USPS FAQ page.

In the meantime, our Post Office is finally getting that face lift–new stain went on today.

Fawnkin Monthly Potluck

It is once again time for the monthly North Shore Improvement Association’s potluck.

During the winter months, residents and members meet at the old Miller Park School House located at 1178 Chickasaw (at Mohawk) in Fawnskin.

The NSIA wants you to show up at 5:30pm for socializing but the potluck starts at 6:00pm.

Bring a dish to share and grab a friend, neighbor, relative or guest to join the fun.

Speaker this month is Stacey Gorin of the Discovery Center and her presentation will be followed by Bingo.
Bingo to follow the guest speaker

For more information or questions please call Chris at (310) 880-3645.

Coffee Time

Starbucks on Christmas Tree Lane (aka Interlaken) will be hosting a coffee seminar and tasting for locals and visitors on Wednesday, May 16, 2012 from 2:00pm until 3:00pm. You’ll be able to taste coffee and sample pastries during this informative session that will share information on their roasting process and coffees.

No RSVP is required to attend. GG also wants to congratulate Big Bear local, Nicole Berneker for her May 7th promotion to manager. It is always nice to have a local in charge–plus, GG was there on the day she started so it is super exciting to see her progress.

If you haven’t heard, you can take advantage of the Frappuccino Happy Hour until May 13, 2012 from 3:00pm until 5:00pm.

Moose Lodge 2085

Moose Lodge 2085 is holding a Legion Meeting on Saturday, May 12, 2012 at 9:00am to be followed by a Highway Clean-Up at around 10 or so. Drop by and sign up if you would like to volunteer.

Moose Lodge 2085 will also be serving up burgers and hot dogs starting at 10:00am on Friday, May 18, 2012 for the Big Bear Climb aka Amgen Tour. Stop on by for a snack while you wait for the racers. Learn more about Stage 6 of the Amgen Tour.

That is it for now…except Jack left the nest again on Tuesday. I saw an adult over at Grout Creek that day–but no Jack yet.

I haven’t shared a Cooking with Clara in a while but I know it is a favorite and I am outta steam after my travels.

Learn more about Cooking with Clara or click the image below to order her book.

So, this week’s TOT was preempted by the day trip desert adventures but, as promised, here is the news–although Post Master Mike says not much has been happening around these parts–things are brewing.

But first…

Jack was still on the nest tree when I returned. Which I personally feel better about because he is sure hard to keep track of when he is out flying around the forest.

One of the neighbors got to see one of the adults scoop up a trout for dinner one night on the way to the Post Office while another called in all the dead trout to the unconcerned agencies.

The creek has been rising and falling and many get stranded or are too tired to continue. I watched one get stuck, rest, and then barely make it back into the stream.

Sad as it seems, it is nature’s way. And although I’ve seen a few owners creek side allowing their dogs to harass the fish, I haven’t personally seen any grab them and drag live trout out.

Okay, now that I got that super-duper important update to ya…time for the sorta news.

MS Walk Big Bear 2012

This Saturday, May 5th at 8:30am people will be down at Stanfield Cutoff and North Shore Elementary in preparation for the annual MS Walk Big Bear 2012.

The Big Bear event, a brainchild of Fawnskin Folks, has raised over $750,000 for the cause so far. Many locals participate and you can join the action too!

The MS Walk is scheduled for May 5, 2012 signup online or at North Shore Elementary School on the day of the event starting at 8:30am.

There will be a Cinco de Mayo dinner at Moose Lodge 2085 following the event (5ish) that is hosted by Dave Emig & Crew, the cost is a mere $10 and all proceeds will go to MS.

You can get more MS Walk Big Bear information by emailing walkms@cal.nmss.org or calling (800) 344-4867.

Hospital Groundbreaking

Bear Valley Community Hospital (BVCH) will be holding a ground breaking ceremony for their new expanded facility at the Bear Valley Community Hospital on Wednesday, May 9, 2012 at 10:00am in the west parking lot.

Plans are for the the Family Health Center and The Mom & Dad Project to be housed in the expanded facility which will contain 12 exam rooms, three treatment rooms including a “well and “sick” area for people to wait and two large meeting and activity rooms.

Amgen Volunteers

Amgen is still looking for volunteers. They need:

• set up/tear down crew – Thurs. 5/17 4:00 pm, Fri. 5/18 6:30 am
• registration crew – Thurs. 5/17 6-9 pm at Nottingham’s, Fri. 5/18 at Summit Blvd. and Switzerland
• course crew – Fri. 5/18 9-2, keep riders stay on course
• aid station crew – Fri. 5/18 10-2, man the aid station turn around at Snow Valley
• viewing area crew – Fri. 5/18 12-4, crowd control
• reception crew – Fri. 5/18 5-9 at Black Diamond Tavern

If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Eric Lewis by email at ericlewisbigbearlake@yahoo.com or phone (909) 800-4371. A volunteer orientation will be held a few days prior to the event.

Music in the Mountains

Music in the Mountains will kick off in June but now is the time to order your tickets. VIP season membership passes are $150 each, season passes are $125 each. You can grab individual event VIP ticket packages or general admission tickets for all five events at the Discovery Center Adventure Outpost at 40971 North Shore Drive on Hwy 38 here in Fawnskin, CA or call (909) 866-3437.