What the heck is “ARROWHEAD WOODS” and what are LAKE RIGHTS?

Did you know that Lake Arrowhead is private and that you can not put a boat on the lake unless you live in “Arrowhead Woods?”

Take a look at this map below and let me explain why and what the blue dotted line is. Here is a hint, the locals call it “The Woods” so if you hear us using that term, now you know what we are talking about! I know what you are thinking; oh wow, how snotty of them to make their lake private. However…

This tid bit comes from the AWAC (Arrowhead Woods Architectural Committee) website:

{After visiting Lake Arrowhead in 1923, a reporter for the Architectural Record wrote, “Much glorious scenery in California and elsewhere has been ruined by haphazard building.” He went on to commend Arrowhead homeowners for the establishment of a concerned resident group appointed that same year. That group, charged with the responsibility of working with the community to protect Lake Arrowhead from such a fate, was AWAC. More than 75 years later, still empowered by the CC&Rs, AWAC continues to preserve the unique character of and property value within the Arrowhead Woods.}

Lake Arrowhead/ AWAC take so much pride in keeping the lake clean and clear of contamination and have done so for 75 years. The lake is small and too much traffic could create hazards while boating on the water. Ask anyone who owns property in the Woods and they will tell you how much they appreciate the private lake.

If you want Lake Rights and you want to swim and play in Lake Arrowhead, then take a look at that map and buy a house within the blue dotted line/Arrowhead Woods. However there are some exceptions so make sure you check with me first to make sure your house does not fall on one of the fine lines. If you want on the lake then you want to make sure you buy right! If you do not care about getting on the lake, then sky’s the limit with property up here!

Visit my blog on ALA and see how much the fees are to be a Lake Member.

For more info, feel free to email me so we can chat about Lake Rights and Arrowhead Woods!

May 24, 2014

Antique & Classic Wooden Boat Show ~ June 7th & 8th ~ Lake Arrowhead

The 2014 Annual Antique & Classic Wooden Boat Show will take place Saturday, June 7th & Sunday, June 8th at the Lake Arrowhead Village

Antique boats will vie for trophies and can be viewed up close at the Lake Arrowhead Village docks.

On display throughout the village will be vintage woodie cars, hot rods, antique wooden boat models and early outboard motors. Antique boats will also be for sale throughout the village.

The feature boat of this year’s show will be Empress, a 1938 Gar Wood 22-foot model 915 Streamliner. Only 9 of these rare beauties were ever built. The Streamliner was intended to revolutionize the runabout market with the practicality of three cockpits forward, with seating for eleven persons in a 22-foot boat. The rear engine and V-drive configuration was very unusual in the 1930s.

The show is produced by the Rim of the World Historical Society with the assistance of the Antique & Classic Boat Society, the Arrowhead Lake Association, the Lake Arrowhead Village, the Up The Hill Woodie Club, Street Rods Forever and the Trompers.

For further information, call 909-336-6666

For more info, visit this website: http://www.rimoftheworldhistory.com/society.html#boatshow

May 12, 2014May 12, 2014

LET YOUR VACATION HOME WORK FOR YOU

Do you own a home in a resort community? Do you find your self using the house less and less each year? If you are not at the point where you want to sell it, then why not try renting it! Of course if you want to sell it, please call me and I can give you a free market analysis on your home! 😉 But in the meantime, why not try making money by renting your vacation home!

Have you ever heard of VRBO.com?

I am specifically highlighting VRBO today because it is one of my personal favorite rental web-sites. I have personally used VRBO in the USA and even throughout Europe. It is such a great way to dive into the city and live like a local for a couple days. You can bring the whole family, cook your own meals and in some areas, like Lake Arrowhead, you can even use the lake! Of course in Lake Arrowhead we do have stick rules to follow, so make sure you include a guidline in your rental agreement and be very clear as to where they should and should not go.

In Lake Arrowhead alone, there are 188 current rental listings on the VRBO site. These listings range from Cottages to Lake Fronts and from 2 people to as many as you can fit! Some of the rentals have kayaks to use and others have Jacuzzi’s! Some have views and others have pure privacy and serenity! Cabins start at $110 a night and go up from there depending on where your house is located, and how many people it sleeps.

For more info on VRBO, just visit their website at vrbo.com.

There are also a couple local rental companies that offer vacation rentals and long term rental services. I just really like VRBO and wanted to share a little bit about them! 🙂

MY TIPS TO A GREAT RENTAL LISTING:

Get professional pictures done to help enhance your cabins beauty. I know first hand that pictures are the gateway to drawing people in, you have to make them fall in love with the house before they arrive! Leave out any pictures with people in them. It is an unnecessary picture that may make the renter look at the next listing.

Keep your house neutral. Treat it like a Hotel. The furnishings and décor should be non-personal. You want your future renters to feel like they are at home, not your home.

Keep one locked closet with any personal items that you do not want to share with the world.

Highlight any nearby parks, or trails. If you are catering to families with kids, try adding a picture of the local playground or swimming area!

Try investing in a Jacuzzi, it is always a selling point for mountain rentals!

Provide Wi-Fi for your guests.

Last but not least… Don’t forget to use the house yourself!

Here are a few examples of some fantastic rentals from the VRBO website:

http://www.vrbo.com/514845 $110-$50 per night, This cabin is a 1 bedroom.
http://www.vrbo.com/341887 $650-$843 per night.
http://www.vrbo.com/503582 $195-$315 per night. http://www.vrbo.com/387116# $425-$575 per night.

Remember we are only an hour and half away form LA, when people escape to the pines they really get a sense of relief from all the hustle and bustle!

May 9, 2014January 17, 2016

What is that Blue Tower in the Middle of Lake Arrowhead?

Have you ever wondered what that Blue Tower is in the middle of Lake Arrowhead?

Here is a little history on “The Tower.” A recent article was published in the Lake Arrowhead Update Spring 2014, provided by the Mountain News, here is what it said.

The blue tower that stands in the middle of Lake Arrowhead was built in 1908 by Los Angeles-based contractor Arthur S. Bent. The initial purpose of the tower was to release water for irrigation of crops in the San Bernardino Valley.
The tower, which stands 43 feet above the water when the lake is full, is located approximately 500 feet off Eagle Point in 145 feet of water, according to the original contour map of the lake bottom in that area.
The reinforced concrete structure was completed and dedicated on July 5, 1908.
One hundred years later, the Arrowhead Lake Association and the Rim of the World Historical Society held a birthday celebration for the tower, complete with cake for boaters who passed by the tower on the lake.
In her book, Saga of the San Bernardinos, the late historian Pauliena LaFuze wrote, “The Outlet Tower, at the portal of Tunnel #1 in Little Bear, was presented to the Arrowhead Reservoir and Power Company by Contractor Bent on July 5th [1908] complete even to pre-cast brackets for an outside, outward facing ladder to the control room on top.
“It was a giant poured-concrete cylinder with screened inlets at 20-foot intervals in a circular pattern, set on a 31-foot square six-foot-thick slab, resting on bedrock. The tower was 17 feet across the walls of two foot thickness, tapering at the 109-foot level to a 13-foot diameter and 15 inches of thickness.
“It stood 195 feet above the lake bed, 178 feet above the tunnel level. The reservoir could now be allowed to fill.”
At the time, the tower was the tallest concrete water tower in the world.
In one of his “Mountain Mileposts” columns, historian Russ Keller quoted from a 1910 issue of Technical World magazine: “At the lower extremity of this 880-acre basin there has been built, at a cost of $40,000, a huge outlet water tower which is unique in engineering records, to say the least. The tower is built entirely of concrete, 195 feet in height; walls two feet thick up to the 125-foot mark where they taper to 15 inches, with an outside diameter of 13 feet throughout, and the walls reinforced with three-fourths inch twisted bars.
“The construction work was in progress all of last winter, the concrete being kept from freezing as it was put in by a fire that was continually kept going inside the tower. A coffer dam held the water back until the work was of sufficient height.”
The article goes on to say that the tower was “completed after six months of hard work” and that by the time the project is completed “millions of dollars will have been expended.”
Construction engineers were F. E. Trask and F. C. Finkle. Colton Portland Cement was used exclusively. The tower was considered one of the finest pieces of concrete work in the country.
The tower has been designated Cultural Landmark #8 by the Rim of the World Historical Society. A dedication plaque is located at the Lake Arrowhead marina, where visitors can take a closer look at the tower through a telescope that has been placed there.

Sources: What Is It, Ralph Wagner; Saga of the San Bernardinos, Pauliena LaFuze; “Mountain Mileposts,” Russ Keller

These two picture were taken by yours truly, Michelle Calkins:

Arial Pic provided by Olympus Air:

May 6, 2014May 6, 2014

Save the Summer Concerts AGAIN…

Let me get one thing straight. We did get our Conditional Use Permit and this second round is having to do with adjusting the start time…

The opposing party appealed on day 10. The appeal is to move the Saturday concert form 6:30-8:30pm to 4:30-6:30 pm. The idea is that this opposing family can enjoy there peace and quiet and hear the crickets, or sounds of the “environment” while they sit on their patio.

This person is just not stopping and they are still causing havoc in our town. So if you have time today, Tuesday May 6, 2014, we need you to visit the Mountain News website: http://www.mountain-news.com/ and take a 2 second poll. When you visit the site you will scroll almost to the bottom. On the left side you will see ONLINE POLL. There are three questions, you can only answer one. See below to see what the poll looks like:

Online Poll

A Lake Arrowhead resident, seeking to make Saturday night summer concerts begin at 4:30 p.m. instead of 6:30, has asked the board of supervisors to hear his appeal of a planning commission decision approving the concerts. What’s your view?

Since far more people enjoy the concerts as they are than those who are are annoyed by them, the appeal should be denied.69%

Homeowners have a right to expect peaceful, quiet evenings, so the appeal should be granted.15%

More noise-reduction, rather than turning the Saturday concerts into afternoon events, is the right answer.16%

I chose for the appeal to be denied. You can make your own decision, but lets put an end to this once and for all!

Thank you all for your time and effort, it is greatly appreciated by all in the community!

The picture below was taken by me last year.

May 5, 2014May 8, 2014

THIS IS LAKE ARROWHEAD, CALIFORNIA!

Where exactly is Lake Arrowhead?

{The Following information is provided by “About page” on lakearrowheadqueen.com}

About Lake Arrowhead

Did You Know That…

The earliest settlements by Europeans in this area were due to the logging industry.
In the 1800′s, Chinese work crews dug a series of tunnels through the San Bernardino mountains connecting to Lake Arrowhead.
A narrow gauge steam train ran along what is now “Rim of the World” highway, through Running Springs and into Grass Valley.
The tower that stands in the middle of Lake Arrowhead is 195 feet high and is an outlet for water to the desert below.
The charming Willow Woods, a local shopping community, includes log cabin buildings still in use that date back to the early 1900′s.
Tour companies from all over the United States include Lake Arrowhead on their itineraries.
The San Bernardino Mountains present a spectacular showcase of life by offering visitors over 2,000 species of flora and nearly 400 species of fauna.
The business district of Lake Arrowhead was burned to the ground in the late 1970′s and was rebuilt to current status. The pavilion, which stands in the center of the village, was the only original building preserved.
Many, many movies have been filmed in lake Arrowhead, including “Heidi”, “Magnificent Obsession”, “The American President,” “Space Jam,” and “The Parent Trap.”

HISTORY OF LAKE ARROWHEAD

Nestled in the magnificent San Bernardino National Forest, surrounded by pine, cedar, and dogwood, at an altitude of 5100′, an area described as the “Alps of Southern California”, and known as “the best kept secret on the West Coast, is a stunningly beautiful, cozy and quaint mountain resort paradise called Lake Arrowhead. Our community features countless outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, backpacking, camping, bicycling, lake tours, water and snow skiing, ice skating, fishing, horseback riding, and much more. With the stunning scenery and wildlife, comes a natural peacefulness that has lured people to these mountains for centuries.

Lake Arrowhead offers 5 Star resort hotel accomodations and restaurants, seasonal weather, and exceptional real estate opportunities. Whether you’re looking for rest, relaxation, a romantic getaway from “the flatlands”, or the thrill of being at one with Mother Nature and all she has to offer, you’re sure to find it here at the lake, so plan your visit soon!.

The Early Beginnings…

The first white man ever to set foot in Little Bear Valley (now known as Lake Arrowhead) was a fur trader, who was a partner of Jedediah Smith, in 1826. At that time, about 40 Paiute Indians, a warlike tribe, used the mountains for their hunting grounds. They lived in the high desert area. Many were finally killed in a fight with the white men of Little Bear Valley, resulting from the Indians setting fire to one of the white men’s cabins.

At the same time, a more peaceful tribe of Indians, the Serranos, lived very near Bear Valley, in an area now known as Rock Camp, on the north side of the mountain. They did not bother the settlers until one of the white men made advances to an Indian maiden, which caused a skirmish killing both Indians and white men.

The Serrano Indians lived in the San Bernardino mountain range occupying Little Bear Valley. They would take thier old and sick to Arrowhead Hot Springs for rejuvenation and healing. They hunted in the beautiful and bountiful valley and lived relatively peaceful, somewhat nomadic lives descending to the desert highlands and warmer inland valleys during the winter months.

The first so-called “Mormon Road” up the mountain was built in 1852. In the 1860′s, the main attraction for the white man at Little Bear Valley was logging, lumber and cattle, and there were several saw mills in and around the Valley. White man in the Little Bear Valley was first interested in the lumber. The trees were tall and straight and cut lumber could be hauled down to San Bernardino on a road constructed through the west end of the range.

The “Daley Canyon Road” was built in 1870. Summers were productive in the Valley, but everything stopped in the winter. A few families remained during the winter months and their only diversion was to snow shoe to their neighbors (usually miles away) to visit.

In the early 1890′s Little Bear Valley was chosen as a location for a reservoir. The dam would supply water to the lowlands in the San Bernardino Valley. Work on the reservoir started in 1893. Camp I in the north end of the valley was built to house the workers.

The land at what would be the bottom of the lake was cleared to prevent decay from becoming a problem and fouling the water. The dam, a semi-hydraulic fill dam was to be 200 feet high, 720 feet wide, and 1,100 feet thick at the base. In 1912 the dam was 80% complete. Work continued several more years, but legal problems rendered the dam’s diversion of water illegal. The lake behind the dam had partially filled with water, however the project was abandoned. The Company was stopped from continuing with its plan to transport water to the areas south of the mountains, and even though the lake was filling with water.

In 1891, three Ohio businessmen chose Little Bear Valley as a likely spot for a reservoir, to supply water to the southern lowlands. Land was purchased and water rights were obtained. The Arrowhead Reservoir Company was formed. In 1890, a tramway, (a cable powered device) was built from Waterman Canyon up the mountain for the purpose of transporting supplies for the building of the dam. However, engineering problems rendered it unsuccessful. Consequently, supplies and machinery were transported via the switchback road. Construction of the dam for the reservoir started in 1893. “Camp 1″ on the north slope of the valley served as living quarters and messhalls for the workers.

In 1905, the property was transferred to a new corporation — Arrowhead Reservoir and Power Company — because the idea of utilizing the water for power had been conceived. The dam is what is known as a semi-hydraulic, fill dam, 200 feet high, 720 feet long and 1,100 feet thick at the base. It has a steel reinforced concrete core wall, embedded 20 feet in bed rock. The trees and brush were removed from what was to be the bottom of the lake, so that decay would not be a problem. The lake filled slowly from runoff.

By 1912, the dam was 80% complete, and work continued for several years after that. The plans called for over 60 miles of water conveyances and tunnels. However, only 6 1/2 miles of tunnels were completed, when it became known that the State ruled in favor of the ranchers on the upper desert side of the mountains, who relied on the water from the northward facing watershed, and passed laws which prevented the diverting of water from its natural watersheds for other than domestic use.

The Arrowhead Lake Company, a Los Angeles syndicate, bought Little Bear Lake and surrounding land (approximately 4,800 acres) in 1920, and changed the name to Lake Arrowhead, (deriving the name from the rock formation in the form of an Arrowhead on the face of the San Bernardino Mountain, near Arrowhead Hot Springs, which is rooted in Indian legend). Their plan was to develop the valley and lake behind the dam into a resort community. By 1923 the dam was completed and a road built along part of the north shore. A Norman style village complete with pavillion, outdoor movie theatre, restaurant and beach were constructed. Three hotels were built: the Arlington Lodge, Village Inn and North Shore Tavern as well as the 9 hole golf course.

Some of the lakeside land was subdivided and sold for private homes and secluded north shore estates. Many Hollywood stars stayed at the hotels during that era, and some purchased homes in the resort. The studios frequently used the area for locations for making films.

A domestic water system, pumping water from deep in the lake, supplied the homes, and the structures were connected to a vey efficient sewer system. Strict restrictions and conditions affecting the use of land and the buildings erected in Arrowhead Woods were recorded with each tract, including the removal of trees.

During the war years, Lake Arrowhead Village was a popular rest and recuperation area for service men. Because of gas rationing, tourists were scarce.

In spite of lot sales, financial troubles developed and the Arrowhead Lake Company went into receivership. In 1946, the Los Angeles Turf Club (owners of Santa Anita Race Track) purchased the lake and surrounding properties, know as Arrowhead Woods.

Several million dollars were spent by the Turf Club, within the first few years of their ownership, in improving the properties. There were no lots sold to speak of during the Turf Club ownership, however they made several donations of land to various organizations, such as the Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, San Bernardino County, churches, Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange, (the builders of the hospital), and they also donated $50,000 toward the construction of the hospital. The famous North Shore Tavern was donated to the University of California and is now a popular conference center.

Renovation…

In 1960, the Lake Arrowhead Development Company was formed by three developers from Los Angeles. They built the present day 18 hole golf course and club house over the old 9 hole course and subdivided 18 residential tracts. In 1967 the Lake Arrowhead Development Company merged with the Boise Cascade Corporation and additional subdivision of properties were created.

In 1971, Lake Arrowhead was purchased by seven businessmen from Chicago. In 1973, Boise Cascade was forced to re-acquire Lake Arrowhead through foreclosure. The Chicago group retained some of the properties not mortgaged by Boise, including some unsubdivided acreage. At the time Boise re-acquired the property, they were faced with the problem of building a new dam or lowering the lake 70 feet, due to a study required by the State to be made of all dams in California following the Van Norman Dam incident in the 1971 Sylmar earthquake.

The study found Arrowhead dam would probably be unsafe if an earhtquake of 6.5 magnitude were to occur in this area. However, Boise felt that the building of a dam should be shared by all property owners in Arrowhead Woods, and legislation was passed to permit a bond issue to be voted on by property owners to finance the building of a new dam downstream. A bond for seven million dollars was passed in 1974 and a new earthfill dam was built. A small lake was formed between the two dams, named by a local resident — “Papoose Lake.”

The property owners in Arrowhead Woods bought Lake Arrowhead in October, 1975 from Boise, and Boise sold their remaining holdings in Lake Arrowhead to Metropolitan Advertising Agency in 1977. In 1978, a group of investors, headed by developer George Coult, bought the Village and Lodge properties. In April of 1979, the Burn To Learn exercise was conducted by the Lake Arrowhead Fire Protection District with the San Bernardino County Fire Departments and the Air Corps taking part. All structures in the Village were burned except the original dance pavilion building, the post office, bank and real estate office.

Lake Arrowhead Village

The beautiful new Village was built in much the same architecture as the old Village, and the dance pavilion was restored as the Theme building, which now houses the Papagayos Restaurant.

Lake Arrowhead Village is the area’s main commercial hot spot for both visitors and locals. With a variety of unique fashion boutiques, outlet stores, restaurants, and a supermarket, The Village provides excellent shopping and dining before heading back to your cozy lodging. Also home to a FREE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES on CENTER STAGE, from May through September, Lake Arrowhead Village entertains thousands at more than forty free concerts each Friday and Saturday night and on holidays, throughout the summer.

The Village includes a complete convenience shopping center providing many professional services, and offers many culinary delights, from lake view restaurants and cafés to ice cream and chocolate confections. Shopping possibilities are varied and rich, with factory outlets, galleries, boutiques, gift and specialty shops.

Attractions include Family Go-Carts on the beach, McKenzie Ski School, the oldest continually operating ski school in the country, a playground with play stations for ages 5-12, and spectacular lake tours on the Arrowhead Queen, a stately 60-seat paddlewheeler.

The Village celebrates many special events throughout the year- Easter, the 4th of July, Oktoberfest and Christmas, to name a few, and enjoys live music and activities throughout the Village on most weekends.

Lake Arrowhead is not only a popular recreational area for visitors, it is also a beautiful year round Alpine residential community at 5000 feet elevation. Come up and enjoy the seasons, the fresh mountain air and beautiful vistas that are Lake Arrowhead…

Lake Arrowhead TODAY

Four Beautiful Seasons

One of the most prized assets of the area is that it truly experiences four distinct seasons. Our weather offers residents and visitors alike the opportunity to enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities.

SPRING in Lake Arrowhead brings mild temperatures and bright colors as the area bursts with life. Blooms flower, wildlife babies emerge from their winter hideaways, and the sounds of chirping birds fill the Lake Arrowhead air, as people visit for a romantic get away from Los Angeles, Orange County, and from faraway places.

Hiking is a popular spring activity here. There are many hiking trails, with a favorite being the Pacific Coast Trail, located about seven miles away from the Lake, and running from the Mexico border to Canada.

Anglers everywhere know that spring is the best time of the year to land a big fish, which brings pros and novices alike to Lake Arrowhead lodging establishments. Whether you’re looking to snag a big one or just want to enjoy the experience with a little catch and release, you can cast your jig or bait in the lake or in nearby public Lake Gregory for Bass, Carp, Catfish, Crappie, Kokanee Salmon, Sunfish, and Trout.

SUMMER in Lake Arrowhead is warm and cozy, without being hot and humid, and the air is CLEAN!! The gentle breeze from the lake provides just the right amount of cool during this time of year when water sports are at their most exciting and sunbathing is at its most relaxing. Swimming, water skiing, boating, dock parties, fishing, hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, and more take place during the summer on our lake and in our beach clubs. Those visiting Lake Arrowhead resort properties can make full use of this beautiful private lake and anyone staying at a Lake Arrowhead lodging can take part in water activities at nearby Lake Gregory. And, don’t forget that Lake Arrowhead is home to a FREE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES on CENTER STAGE, from May through September, Lake Arrowhead Village entertains thousands at more than forty free concerts each Friday and Saturday night and on holidays, throughout the summer.

When visiting during the summer, remember to take the Lake Arrowhead Queen Paddleboat Tour, which lasts about an hour and takes you around the perimeter of Lake Arrowhead. The notoriously hilarious tour guide has a great reputation for his jokes and one-liners and always has the entire boat in stitches as he points out celebrity homes and tells stories and fun facts about the area. For example, did you know that there have been 120 movies filmed in Lake Arrowhead, including Heidi, The American President, Space Jam, Next, and the 1998 remake of The Parent Trap?

FALL in Lake Arrowhead brings out the red, gold, and orange colors of the mountains, and provides the perfect backdrop for camping in Lake Arrowhead. One of the most popular campgrounds is the North Shore Campground. Only three miles from The Village, this beautiful campground features modern Lake Arrowhead lodging amenities for campers, like running water and restrooms. San Bernardino National Forest also provides outdoor activities in the forest with equestrian trails and trails for mountain biking and off road vehicles. With cool evenings and warm days, fall is glorious in Lake Arrowhead!!

WINTER brings fluffy white snow that transforms Lake Arrowhead into an unbelievably beautiful, peaceful winter wonderland. No traffic, crystal clear skys, perfect quiet… Skiing and snowboarding are favorite winter activities at our mountain ski resorts, Snow Valley, Bear Mountain, and Snow Summit. The Big Bear Ranger Station and Discovery Center hosts a snowshoe tour, and several groups offer guided winter hikes, and you can ice skate at one of the world’s most beautiful outdoor skating rinks.

Plenty More To Do In Lake Arrowhead

While outdoor activities abound, there is still plenty to do in Lake Arrowhead if you’re not an outdoor person at heart. The area is teeming with shopping, dining, culture, cozy Lake Arrowhead lodging, Lake Arrowhead resort spas, and fun events that boost the reputation of the area as a perfect family vacation spot.

The Annual Lake Arrowhead Home Tour takes participants on a tour of some of the most remarkable homes in the community. Whether a historic log cabin with a significant story to tell, or a modern and high tech lakefront mansion, this tour can provide you with a look at the finest architecture and décor Lake Arrowhead has to offer.

The Lake Arrowhead Yacht Club, which began operations in 1932 in Lake Arrowhead, has over 350 members and a fleet of over 35 sailboats and The Annual Antique and Classic Wooden Boat Show features historic wooden boats from manufacturers of the past.

Lake Arrowhead is home to the Ice Castle International Training Center, an Olympic training facility for figure skaters, and The University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), operates the UCLA Conference Center near Lake Arrowhead, a full service conference facility with excellent lodging and plenty of meeting space.

Plan Your Visit To Lake Arrowhead

As a romantic get away from Los Angeles, Orange County, or anywhere else for that matter, Lake Arrowhead’s community has a strong sense of local pride. The economy is mostly dependent on tourism, including lodging, dining, resorts and spas. The primary tourism industries include real estate, lodging, dining, skiing, recreation, resorts, spas, and retail sales..

Whether you’re looking for a romantic get away, a relaxing family escape, or a thrilling outdoor adventure, Lake Arrowhead offers a perfect destination for individuals, couples, families, groups of all sizes.

May 2, 2014May 8, 2014

THE LAKE ARROWHEAD “QUEEN” AND WHO SHE IS…

If you have ever been to Lake Arrowhead then chances are you have seen the “Queen!” Oh no, we don’t have a real Queen up here, I am talking about the big beautiful white boat on the lake called the queen.

She can be found on the lake sitting in front of the Belgian Waffle Works Restaurant or touring on the water. While aboard the 1 hour tour, one of the captains provides a historical tour of Lake Arrowhead. I have personally been on the queen multiple times and love taking family and friends for the ride. I find that the guided tour is so informative and I still manage to learn something new every time. You will hear about how the lake was formed, what Bugsy Siegel has to do with this town and maybe even see a couple homes to the stars.

Did you know that Priscilla Presley had a home up here and Howard Hues used to land his water plane in our lake? Well, those are a couple examples of the stories that make this one hour tour so much fun!

My little hint… you can bring a bottle of your favorite wine or beer aboard, and if you forget the wine opener, don’t worry they have one! 😉

Here are ticket prices that I pulled directly from their web-site:

Tickets

$16 per adult
$14 per senior (60 and older)
$12 per child (12 and under).

Winter business hours start at 11:00A.M weekends and 11:00A.M weekdays and end at 3:30P.M.

Summer business hours are consistently 11:00A.M thru 5:00P.M.

Arrowhead Queen Private Charter Rates: Call for Rates (909) 336 – 6992

Groups of 15 or more $10.00 each Monday-Friday ONLY

For more info onthe queen, visit their website: http://lakearrowheadqueen.com/

May 1, 2014May 1, 2014

275 C Lane, Lake Arrowhead

WALK TO THE LAKE! This 50’s cabin has had a major facelift since last on the market. Both bathrooms and the kitchen were taken down to the frame. 2 bedrooms on the main & large living room with a wall of windows. Slate floors in kitchen and granite counter tops, large deck for entertaining, large bedroom upstairs with 1/2 bath. There is enough parking for the whole family and the Boat, including the unique oversized 1 car garage. Insulted roof. Ample storage.

April 29, 2014April 29, 2014

Pine Rose Cabins Survived HUGE OAK TREE Crash!

Thank you to RIM of the World.Net for this article… and for the pictures.

WOW, we have had some fierce winds here in the southland today. Twin Peaks had a giant Oak Tree fall on the Pine rose cabins today. Thankfully no one was injured, only a couple golf carts. The link provided will take you to the full article on the exciting news on the Rim of the World!

Here at Coldwell Banker, we did have one small tree crash down by the parking lot. It is a reminder that we are not in control, and mother nature still takes the lead!

Be safe out there in the wind!

April 20, 2014

The comments from counsel had me at “WOW!” LAKE ARROWHEAD SUMMER CONCERTS WILL GO ON!

Thursday April 17, 2014 at 9:00am, 50-75 people gathered in the San Bernardino Land Use Service Department building, Planning Division. The mission: ‘SAVE THE SUMMER CONCERTS’ and secure a C.U.P. (Condition Use Permit).

Lake Arrowhead has a population of 12,424, an elevation of 5,108ft, lake size is 782 acre’s, is home to 50 shops and 12 restaurants. The Lake Arrowhead Village has provided musical entertainment for 89 years, beginning in 1925. For decades residents and visitors alike have become accustomed to the summertime event that draws their friends and families back year after year. As of now the Village hosts 17 weekends of FREE concerts on Friday and Saturday nights from 6:30 to 8:30pm. Concerts begin from early May and end on Labor Day weekend. These are then followed by 5 weeks of Oktoberfest festivities on Saturday’s and Sunday’s from 1:00 to 5:00pm, beginning in mid-September and ending late October. Live music is played at both events. In fact, Lake Arrowhead has managed to get some of the top cover bands to play on their ‘Center Stage’, paid in part by the Lake Arrowhead Village Merchants.

What led the Lake Arrowhead Village before the Planning Division Counsel?

NOISE. It was stressed that this hearing was not to be based on economic impacts, but solely on “environmental pollution”. In the music world there is a logarithmic unit called a Decibel: The decibel is a logarithmic unit used to express the ratio between two values of a physical quantity, often power or intensity. One of these quantities is often a reference value, and in this case the decibel can be used to express the absolute level of the physical quantity (Sourced on Wikipedia). This Decibel according to San Bernardino County has a high limit enforcement code for residential areas of 55 db’s from 7am -10pm, and 45 db’s from 10pm-7am.

In the past, the village concerts exceeded those county standards and music could be heard from across the bay. At times music could be heard throughout Arrowhead Woods due in part to the extreme mountain topography, carrying sound throughout the valleys. Sound waves that traveled furthest came from drum bass and high frequency pitches such as an electric guitar. In 2012 and in previous years, the concerts went until 9:30pm and would occasionally have encores until 10pm. Not many residents complained during this time, but a few did surface and gained momentum after a formal complaint had been filed by one opposing party.

How did this process begin?

In 2012 the Lake Arrowhead Village received a complaint from an opposing party. The complaint was regarding noise coming from the Lake Arrowhead Village Concerts which they perceived to be noise pollution. The opposing party also stated that their requests were not taken seriously by Lake Arrowhead Village management and so decided to take the issue to county courts. In court they argued Lake Arrowhead was supposed to be a place of serenity and that they could not sit outside or enjoy the quiet sounds of mountain environment at night. They also insisted that the concert noise disrupted their sleep and that of their children.

Where did this leave the Lake Arrowhead Village?

To save the concerts and obtain a permit, the village realized a need to personally make efforts in lowering sound levels. In 2013, village management worked diligently to see that sound db’s were within county limits. Multiple tests were employed throughout the concert season to insure all areas were within db compliance. Test readings were taken at multiple locations around the lake, concerts rescheduled to end at 8:30 sharp (a full 1.5 hours earlier than allowed), with no encores and no after concert music. Efforts were made to lower the volume and sound travel by re-arranging speakers and lowering bass volumes. After these changes were put in place and the new db measurements taken, all but one area was in compliance. That one area will now have acoustic blankets draped in-between two buildings preventing sound waves from reaching nearby condos.

Where is the Lake Arrowhead Village today?

Currently we are 2 weeks away from our first concert on May 9th. Lake Arrowhead Village was on a T.U.P. (Temporary Use Permit). The T.U.P. was a non-permanent permit that required review each year allowing an opportunity for denial of the permit, thus canceling the entire concert series. This yearly review was very expensive, very time consuming and very exhausting. Village Manager, Vicky Goodlick, grabbed this challenge by the reins and worked very hard with a team of specialists to secure a permanent permit. This C.U.P permit would help insure that concerts continue for years to come and provide entertainment for future music lovers.

The final conclusion:

As proven, the village is now in compliance with the proper db’s and they will continue to make every effort to lower the db’s even further. They have looked into hanging speakers higher inside the tent to face the music down into the crowd, placing a drum shield in front of the drum sets to help shelter bass, adding a special “zone fill” speaker system that directs sound at an opposing speaker which would in turn cancel sound wave travel, and also hang more acoustic blankets around the village shops corridor. A key speaker noted they may even implement special warning lights that activate when db limits get to high, allowing sound board operators to make adjustments. The village will continually run tests and check db’s to prevent further complaints.

At Thursday’s hearing 19 people spoke in front of the counsel to express their feelings regarding the concerts. Three against the current concert conditions and the others for it. The opposing continued their complaint of noise pollution and sleep deprivation while commenting to those in favor, “You did not need to bring silly signs that say ‘save the concerts’, because we NEVER intended to end the concerts,” and “It was always about environmental impact”, reiterating that the complaint was that they cannot sit on their patio and enjoy the sounds of the mountain due to the concert noise. Many groans and snickers erupted from the side of the room I was sitting on, but I feel everyone kept it together very well and respected the counsel. Those in favor were able to speak about legitimate noise reduction, and the effect canceling the concerts would have on our economy. Although economics was not the intended focus, it was very obvious the large economic impact a cancellation would incur.

The permanent permit and how Lake Arrowhead received their C.U.P.

The counsel sat very patiently and listened to all comments and concerns that were presented. After all speakers had spoken the counsel proceeded with their questions. Audrey Matthews inquired if the db’s were in compliance; Answer: Yes. She then proceeded with a fun little story about how she attends concerts at the Hollywood Bowl. Mrs. Mathews mentioned that those concerts go until 10pm and that all the residents who live on Mulholland Drive sit on their front porches and enjoy a free concert while she has paid $50. She then motioned to move forward. Randy Coleman stated, “I take my family up to Lake Arrowhead every year and enjoy the summer concerts along with a stay at the lake Arrowhead Resort”. He also stated,”I think 8:30 is to early to end the concerts, I think it should go till 9!” There were cheers from the seats and lots of applause. Ray Allard inquired, “So, are they in county compliance?”; Answer: Yes. He continued, “And there are still efforts being made to lower the db’s further?”; Answer: Yes. “And they have made their own efforts to further the noise reduction without county request?” Answer: Yes. “Then WHY ARE WE HERE?!” The room burst with excitement. He proceeded to say, “Heck, I feel like giving them one extra decibel if they want one!”

Before I knew it, all counsel members had said, “Aye”, the C.U.P. was awarded and the hearing was ajurned. The cheers from the crowd were enough for the opposing party to realize they had been defeated. The day ended with a friendly hug from the opposing party to Vicky Goodlick.

LONG LIVE THE LAKE ARROWHEAD CONCERTS!