Author Archives: Shawn E. Bell

Big Bear Lake, National Forests

A Benefit for the Big Bear Discovery Center

Posted on by Shawn E. Bell

Keep your calendars open on February 8, 2014!

From the Southern California Mountains Foundation:

Join the Southern California Mountains Foundation to help fund raise for the Big Bear Discovery Center and our San Bernardino Mountains at our benefit event on Saturday, February 8, 2014, at the Discovery Center; 6:30pm to 9:00pm.

We need your support to help continue the programming and services we provide at and through the Discovery Center to continue our mission of conservation, environmental education and responsible recreation programming focused on the health, stewardship and sustainability of our mountains, communities and our own lifestyles. Please see our personal note to you below. Continue reading →

Gear Reviews

Gear Review: New Balance 1569

Posted on by Shawn E. Bell

I purchased the New Balance 1569 (“Mens Walking” MW1569BR) at the first of the year. I was looking for some hiking boots that were more than just ‘sneakers with off-road tread’ and less than ‘serious’ backpacking boots. I wanted something I could comfortably wear on the hiking I do in the local mountains, but versatile enough that I could wear on some of the higher, longer treks – like Mount Whitney. They had to be durable, waterproof, comfortable, and come with a warranty.

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General Aviation

General Aviation Pilot Protection Act

Posted on by Shawn E. Bell

New bill would expand driver’s license medical to pilots,

After nearly two years of FAA inaction on the AOPA-EAA third-class medical petition, Congress has taken matters into its own hands, offering up legislation that would vastly expand the number of pilots who could fly without going through the expensive and time-consuming third-class medical certification process. Reps. Todd Rokita (R-Ind.), a member of the House General Aviation Caucus, and GA Caucus Co-Chair Sam Graves (R-Mo.) on Dec. 11 introduced the General Aviation Pilot Protection Act. The legislation, House Resolution 3708, would dramatically expand the parameters for flying under the driver’s license medical standard. Rokita and Graves are both AOPA members and active pilots.

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Adventures, National Parks

Snowshoe Yosemite: Mariposa Grove

Posted on by Shawn E. Bell

Even though we’re experiencing a kinda dry winter, Yosemite Conservancy is hosting a shoeshoe event early in February, and it seems like a fun (if exhausting) event.  From the event page:

See giant sequoias in a way few visitors have on this fun and informative day of snowshoeing into the Mariposa Grove. Winter offers the rare opportunity to feel as if you have this ancient grove all to yourself. Naturalist Shirley Spencer will enhance this trip with her creativity and extensive knowledge. You’ll learn about the natural history of the grove, as well as the plant and wildlife species that call it home. If you’re looking for an unforgettable Yosemite experience, don’t pass this one up. This excursion is recommended for adults and mature teens. This trek will begin Saturday morning at Yosemite’s south entrance gate on Hwy. 41.

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National Forests

Fire Restrictions Take Effect in Los Padres National Forest

Posted on by Shawn E. Bell

Due to extremely dry vegetation and an increasing fire danger, Los Padres National Forest officials today announced that Level III fire restrictions will go into effect beginning tomorrow, January 11, 2014. The following restrictions will be rigorously enforced until this Forest Order expires:

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