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.

It has been a while since I did GG’s Day Trip and since I headed down to Joshua Tree this week I thought it might be a nice little break.

Don’t worry, check out GG’s TOT tomorrow.

Joshua Tree is located in the high desert about 1.5 to 2.0 hours from Big Bear, CA and many locals head down to the desert to escape and enjoy and entirely different environment.

In fact, one of my neighbors was at the same spa both days that I was! I mentioned the location to him sometime back and he turned into a regular desert rat, especially when snow storms were predicted.

GG tends to like to go off season when the place is sparse due to the heat since being in the pools makes the heat bearable.

In case you have missed any former reviews you can find them in the archives:

• Miracle Springs
• Deserted Desert
• Joshua Tree Unsuspecting Victims How to Remove Cactus Spines
• Desert Delights

This trip I was able to enjoy some of the eclectic businesses that seem to thrive in such places.

My favorite finds this trip were the Art Queen in Joshua Tree and the Route 62 Vintage Marketplace in Yucca Valley.

Dawn Blevins Route 62 Marketplace

Dawn has created a magical treasure hunt that was a feast for our eyes because it is a aesthetically appealing combination of both vintage and artisan treasures creatively displayed in a cozy, enchanting setting.

We spent quite some time taking in all the sights and meandering into each space. The marketplace is a mix of vendors similar to some of our antique malls here but sprinkled with unique art creations, great music, and enhanced with great display work & lighting.

Exterior corridor at Route 62 Vintage Marketplace contained and assortment of goods including furniture, lamps, bird baths, decor and a whole lot more.

Red is entranced by something while I am amused by the lamp. Many local artists seem to be turning trash into treasure out in the desert.

Fine Route 62 Vintage Marketplace at 55635 29 Palms Hwy in Yucca Valley, CA and tell Dawn that GG sent you.

Art Queen | Shari Elf

Sometimes you have to have an adventure and honor the creativity and spunk of those who are following their passion.

So, after many trips and wondering just what the Art Queen had to offer–we finally stopped in.

Personally, I can’t believe we didn’t get one of the What Would Cher Do? T-shirts but I am sure we will be back to correct that error because it was fun and different.

I was most impressed by the World Famous Crochet Museum which made me laugh while I turned into a five-year-old right on the spot.

Once located in Kansas City, Missouri the new improved version is contained within a vintage Photo-Mat booth which has been transformed into the stunning museum in Joshua Tree, California.

The Art Queen entrance is hidden but if you watch for the sign…

…you can find it easily. But we headed around the back, parked and ambled in through that entrance.

The artist compound features a working studio, gallery, and performance stage.

We liked the stage…most everything in the artist compound is made of recycled goods and the location once operated as a motel.

The gallery was spacious and contained a few treasures since a lot of the work sells to visitors from all over–many remain anonymous.

GG, cub reporter and all, found the original manifesto…

Steeped in American roadside tradition, ART QUEEN strives to bring genuine, pure, and powerful work to its community. Founders Shari Elf and Randy Polumbo, both artists themselves, believe in a fun, and inclusive atmosphere, celebrating thoughtful, inspiring, and accessible work, whether self taught, professionally trained, or serendipitously discovered genius.

…and Shari hard at work.

She told us that they have been on the property for seven years now and her working studio has been active there for three years.

Find Art Queen at 61855 Highway 62 in Joshua Tree, California and don’t forget to tell her that GG sent you over to say hi to Bunny and all the creatures in the World Famous Crochet Museum!

Last month I wrote about Motion Sickness (Kinetosis) Remedies but only touched on some of the traditional medications and behavioral options.

Beyond traditional medications, there are now some other types of options that exist for tackling motion sickness.

Motion sickness is known by a lot of different terms that tend to describe the type of travel that is happening when the condition arises but it is actually caused by a disturbance of the inner ear caused by movement.

This is why air turbulence when flying, water turbulence when boating, or navigational changes when driving around curves trigger the issue.

The theory is that mixed messages happen between the eyes, the body, and the ears impact the balance and equilibrium of those affected causing nausea, dizziness, an upset stomach or vomiting.

As a child I had a lot of problems with this condition and it is one of the reasons I don’t read during car travel and prefer to sit in the front seat of a car. The good news is that there are more remedies than ever–so pick what works the best for you.

Topical Aids

When compared to the options of the past, topical aids are more appealing to those who don’t want to take medications. Of course, there is a patch that slowly releases medication but also options that use pressure points to fight your battle.

Pressure Points & Wrist Bands

Not everything that works has been substantiated in a laboratory setting. For instance, some people find relief using motion sickness wrist bands. The ancient practice of Acupressure has resulted in a product that helps thwart motion sickness misery. The non-invasive pressure helps disrupt signals to the brain which helps prevent nausea and is safe to use for any ag

The most popular in the boating world is called the Sea-Band. Quite simply, a band or wrist bracelet holds a bead in place over the pressure point (P-6 or Pericardium 6) on the inside of the wrist. The point is about two finger widths down from the wrist joint.

Transdermal Patch

A transdermal patch is placed behind the ear and slowly releases medication that is absorbed through the skin. This option is best used on trips lasting one to three days and must be placed in position a few hours before travel.

Some people who have used them on extended trips have reported side effects if used beyond the recommended period–so always check with your doctor and follow the directions. The most commonly used product I found was the Transdermal Scopolamine Patch (Transderm-Scop).

Scientific Studies

Believe it or not, some astronauts struggled with motion sickness and studies to remedy this issue were undertaken by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Labeled as “space sickness” the issue seemed to resolve itself within three days but influenced the establishment of the National Space Biomedical Research Institute.

Motion Sickness is a problem for other agencies where motion sickness impacts pilots or naval teams–so a lot of investigation is going on. In September 2011, Scientific American did an interesting article on the topic and shared some research findings substantiated in controlled conditions.

Foods & Spices

Anti-Nausea Gum and different spices are home remedies that have long been used to address an upset stomach and some people find that they work to battle motion sickness symptoms as well.

Ginger has been found to help with indigestion, nausea, dizziness and vomiting. It contains an element that boosts digestive fluids and neutralizing acids but also relaxes the intestinal tract.

Mint or Peppermint has been used for ages as aids for indigestion or nausea and helps relax the muscles of the digestive tract while also stimulating natural digestion.

Homeopathy

“Like cures like” is the thought behind homeopathy and so these remedies are diluted substances from plants and minerals that match the symptom patterns. There are a few used specifically for motion sickness.

Most of these remedies can be obtained at a health food store or from the apothecary of your alternative health care provider.

The small white pills are usually packaged in small tubes an are available as an over-the-counter item but getting help from an experienced homeopath who can assess and determine the most appropriate remedy for you is the best practice.

Cocculus Indicus is probably the number one choice for motion sickness. Other remedies to consider include Argentum Nitricum, Kali Bichromicum, Rhus Toxicodendron, Sepia, Borax, Nux Vomica, Petroleum, and Tabacum.

Puma Method

During my research about combating motion sickness, I ran across Dr Sam Puma’s information and video. Check it out, you never know what might work for you!

Do you have a motion sickness process or remedy that works for you or your family? Share in the comments below!

So, GG survived her birthday but was a tired puppy by the time she arrived home in the early evening on Tuesday.

Festivities began at 8:00am and didn’t conclude until 5:00pm. The highlights were many but I’d say that the Happy Birthday renditions by my nephews was the best–especially since the youngest kissed the phone at the end–making a nice beeping sound.

Of course, PM Mike & PMR Jimi were a close second–breaking into song with Jimi blowing my mind with his amazing voice in vintage 50s style crooning.

Honestly, you never know what you are going to discover around here.

After a great lunch and tea time with Char, another pal treated me to an obligatory birthday boat ride. I saw a few new ducks that I haven’t ever seen before and had a great time on Grout Bay.

The wind and the weather kept us close to home but that was fine–I especially like that Captain Frankie took the wheel before he was snuggled up for some puppy loving with his Auntie GG!

Okay, big news around these parts?

Post Office Primping
Other than gardening news (as in everyone has been out in their yards working), a big spring spruce up will be taking place over at the Fawnskin Post Office. The building is going to get new paint and oil treatment soon. I don’t remember it being done since I’ve been here so that is good news.

Birding Basics
GG has been learning a lot about birding and will be sharing that knowledge on the Fawnskin Flyer soon but the Discovery Center will be getting involved in NestWatch this year. NestWatch is a national effort to track trends in the nesting success of hundreds of species of birds.

There are two ways to get certified in NestWatch–at the Discovery Center or online.

On Friday, April 27, 2012 from 2:00pm-4:00pm, the Big Bear Discovery Center and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology will be offering a training session for NestWatch volunteers. In this program, participants will learn more about NestWatch and how they can participate, including tips on how to safely locate and monitor nests. Please RSVP to Meredith Brandon at 909-382-2842 or mbrandon@nationalforestassociation.org or join online participants at Nestwatch.org.

Nesting records have been collected by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology dating back to the 1960’s and more than 400,000 nest records in all for more than 500 species. All of these data add up to a powerful monitoring mechanism for evaluating the health of North America’s nesting bird populations.

Friends of Fawnskin Meeting
The annual Friends of Fawnskin membership meeting is 10:00am this Saturday, April 28, 2012 at the Discovery Center. Updates on events and proposed developments around the valley will be given along with a special presentation of “The Hidden Treasure of Big Bear Valley.”

Upcoming Friends of Fawnskin events will be:

• 5th Annual Fawnskin Town Hall on Saturday, June 16, 2012 at Fire Station 96. Panelists will be on hand to answer question starting at 9:00am.
• Walkathon for Big Bear Valley on Saturday, June 23 2012 starting at 8:00am which will benefit many nonprofit organizations around the valley.
• Concert on the Green with Nancy Walker is scheduled for Sunday evening, August 5, 2012 as a benefit the Friends of Fawnskin.

Alternative Energy
The Big Bear Alternative Energy Group will hear presentations by solar installers who want to work with Valley residents to make solar power accessible and affordable through leasing and/or purchase. The first one-hour presentation will be held on Wednesday, May 9, 2012, at 6:30pm at the Masonic Lodge in Big Bear Lake. For more information or to RSVP, please contact BBAEGroup@gmail.com.

Wine & Cheese Reception
Fawnskin Folks who are interested in support the re-election of Neil Derry for Supervisor might be interested to attend the wine and cheese reception this Saturday, April 28, 2012 from 3:00pm until 5:00pm.

Attendees with be able to chat with Neil Derry in a social setting hosted by Terry Bessey and Barbara Finlayson-Pitts in Fawnskin. For the address and details, RSVP to Terry Bessey at (909) 866-5443 or terrypb6@gmail.com

Thrive!
The Mountain Healing Arts Association is sponsoring a free daylong event, Big Bear Thrives! The documentary “Thrive: What on Earth Will it Take?” will be screened from 10:00am until 12:15 pm at the Big Bear Discovery Center on Sunday, April 29th.

An open forum addressing topics such as health, nutrition, agriculture/gardening, banking, education, recycling, and sustainable energy will run from 1:00pm until 4:00 pm. The gathering will be an opportunity for community members to brainstorm and network with others who have similar interests in creating a community that thrives.

The Big Bear Discover Center is located at 40971 North Shore Drive. Doors open at 9:30am but since seating is limited, please arrive early. For more information visit Thrive Movement or contact Gina Weiss at (909) 585-7228 with any questions.

GG thinks that instead of playing, Where’s Waldo? Fawnskin Folks should play, Where’s Jack?

This could make things a bit more interesting and keep everyone in the loop of what is happening in the eagle world.

In the meantime, I thought I’d amaze you with my newly acquired knowledge and answer some questions that I’ve been getting.

The Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus)
Believe it or not, the scientific name means white-headed sea eagle and is derived from the Greek words halos (sea) and aetos (eagle), leukos (white) and kephalus (head). In addition, the Middle English word balled, means shining white–which is where we get “Bald.”

Other names for this eagle? American Eagle, White-headed Eagle, and American Fish Eagle…but around here we call ‘em OUR eagles or Fawnskin Fish Eagles. (Okay, okay–YES, I made that up but you know how I am!)

Now, for the more serious slant.

GG has been a busy girl watching all the birds lately. Bald eagle Jack left the nest and is on the way to learning to hunt and live on his own.

Although I wasn’t wringing my hands over this, the estimates are pretty dismal since somewhere around 40% of the juvenile bald eagles that make it to fledge do not survive their first flight.

Whew!

Other locals saw Jack flapping around on the ground but I had been watching him practice getting air and building up his wing muscles all week. So, I scanned the ridgeline and trees until I found him up in the tree tops and then was fortunate to see him glide off.

If an eagle can look determined, Jack had “the look” on this flight and I was relieved to see find him without a problem on Monday–mainly because I caught one adult on the way to his location to feed him.

A lot of people have been asking questions about what will happen now. So…

After eagles have let the nest, they stick around for up to 12 weeks as they learn to hunt. This happens through observation and trial & error.

In the meantime, Jack won’t be going far since his primary feathers and his muscles need to continue to strengthen. The eagle family will remain close to the site for the time being but are not likely to be found back at the nest.

Quite frankly, I’d think they are are glad to be away from it! Probably needs some housecleaning by this time–and the addition of fresh sticks.

In case you don’t know, one of the adults was seen bringing new nesting material last week while Jack was still in the nest.

Since Jack has a V shape on his chest, it will be easy to identify him for a time. Adult coloring doesn’t happen for a while (4-5 years). Also, his dark eye color will lighten over time in conjuction with the head and tail feathers.

One of the reasons he looks bigger than the adults is due to his current coloration and, according to one source, because he has more fluffy feathers for the moment.

A benefit of this coloration is that it is also thought to help reduce adult eagle territorial aggression toward immature eagles.

Since his parents will use the nest over and over again, it will be interesting to see where Jack ends up taking full-time residence–likely to happen toward the middle to end of the summer as he gains more independence.

Now, many locals insist that some of the eagles on the east end of the valley are bald eagle juveniles but they can be easily confused with golden eagles–which are also in this region.

Differences are that immature bald eagles have more mottling in their coloration while golden eagles is more solid. Bald eagle beaks are larger too but behaviorally, the bald eagles prefer treed habitat near water while golden eagles tend to frequent open terrain.

A handsome Fawnskin guy showed me some stunning bald eagle pictures he took at the Big Bear airport so no telling what you might see around the valley!

If you want to see some examples, one of the bird publishers I know has a forum dedicated to topics such as these and you can learn more about the Immature Bald Eagles versus Immature Golden Eagles.

Now, if you are an wild eagle junkie like I seem to have become, you can watch chicks develop on the nest cams:

• Catalina Bald Eagle Nest Cam
• Santa Cruz Island Eagle Nest Cam
• Institute for Wildlife Studies Eagle Nest Cams

BTW It is my birthday today, so I wrote this in advance and will be out kickin’ up my heals. Feel free to break out in song on the street and to shower me with gifts…I’ll be back on Thursday.

Above: Location of Jack early Monday. This is near the top of the ridge to the left of the nest site, left of the big dead tree that leans to the right.

So, Jack ‘s off–taking flight on Earth Day in the afternoon.

I think the Discovery Center told him that the focus on Earth Day was more important than taking flight on my birthday (aka bird-day) and he buckled under the “for the greater good” pressure.

Because seriously, what a tie in. Earth Day + Bald Eagle Recovery + 1st eaglet to be documented in the San Bernardino Mountains taking flight on April 22nd?

All I can say is that those marketing people better be on it!

Of course, today was the first time in some time that I didn’t get out on the deck in my robe during the early morning hours to gaze through the scope.

Then of course I went down to the neighbors to help them train their delinquent dog–a promise I made some time back.

When I finally pulled out the scope–I found both the nest and branch empty.

I was a bit concerned but it confirmed my suspicions of yesterday.

You see, both parents were close by, sitting one above the other and looking like they expected him to take the leap.

Nothing much was happening and, since I put in my “please fly on my birthday” wish, I certainly didn’t expect it to happen today.

My hope is that the adults will reveal his location when they do the evening feeding.

He was sighted flapping around the hillside by some locals.

I tried scoping down at the park, over on Grout Bay, near the creek and then around my grotto–to no avail.

The camouflage works wonder but I do hope he finds a perch later since the coyote den is pretty darn close to where he was seen.

I imagine his historic flight wore him out and so he had to rest up before he tries a few more times.

If you haven’t been getting the updates over on the Fawnskin Flyer Facebook page–go “like” the page now so you don’t miss out any more!

And, of course–Happy Earth Day!

4-23-2012 Update: GG spotted Jack at 6:45pm high on the top of a tree, he glided off while I was watching–and if a bird could look determined–he certainly did! Then, at 8:15am I was out with the scope and lucked out by seeing the adult take Jack breakfast. They were high on the ridge, hidden to the southwest of the nesting site. Now he needs to learn to hunt so it should be interesting if I can keep finding them!