Update #15
COVID-19 Threats
March 28, 2020 - 6 pm
Big Bear Lake Settles Into Life With Restrictions,
Planning Efforts Continue

Some Email Platforms Inadvertently Flagging City Emails - City Emails Are Safe, and We Are Working to Resolve

COVID-19 Data Provides Helpful Perspective
THIS IS THE OFFICIAL GUIDANCE FROM THE CITY OF BIG BEAR LAKE
The City of Big Bear Lake is working hard to ensure that the residents, property owners, investors, businesses, and visitors in our community have the correct information about the status of COVID-19 threats in Big Bear Lake and the City's response to these threats. This email newsletter is the official guidance from the City of Big Bear Lake, and the City appreciates everyone's adherence to the restrictions and recommendations outlined herein.
 
To be sure you are receiving the latest and most accurate information, please sign up for this email newsletter by clicking here . PLEASE share this email newsletter with anyone and everyone, as we want to reach as many people as possible with this information. Thank you!
BIG BEAR LAKE SETTLES INTO LIFE WITH RESTRICTIONS,
PLANNING EFFORTS CONTINUE
Like many places in the United States and California, the Big Bear Lake community is settling in to life under the significant restrictions imposed as a result of COVID-19. Big Bear Lake has been under significant restrictions for more than two weeks now, and has been subject to Governor Newsom's "shelter in place" order for more than a week.

The City, along with our other local government partners in Big Bear Valley, has worked hard to address the COVID-19 issue in our community up to this point, and continues to work hard to prepare for an escalation of COVID-19 - which we all obviously hope will not occur - but the planning work continues. In addition to planning for the potential escalation of COVID-19 cases in Big Bear Lake, we are actively planning for worsening local economic impacts, negative City financial impacts, and, importantly, for our community's eventual emergence from this unprecedented event in all of our lives. When this is all over, we want to make sure we're ready to KEEP our community safe, help our businesses rebound, and confidently welcome back our visitors to enjoy all of the great recreational opportunities in Big Bear Lake!

For the most part, Big Bear Lake looks like a ghost town during the morning and evening hours, with some movement around town during the main part of the day as people head out for food, supplies, or simply try to get out of the house for a little while. People in Big Bear Lake are being responsible, and heeding the Governor's, County's, and the City's orders, and the City appreciates everyone's cooperation - please keep it up!

As a reminder, the City encourages everyone to:

  • heed the Governor's order to "shelter in place",

  • limit your interactions with others to the maximum extent practical,

  • plan your essential trips out accordingly, and limit the number of trips to the grocery store, drug store, etc.,

  • keep at least 6 feet of distance between you and others you come into contact with,

  • wash your hands ALL THE TIME, and

  • if you need to get outside, take a walk, go for a run, take a bike ride, or go on a hike by yourself or with your family - but stay far way from others!

We will get through this together, and with everyone's continued cooperation and patience we can keep everyone safe and end the COVID-19 emergency sooner rather than later!
SOME EMAIL PLATFORMS INADVERTENTLY FLAGGING CITY EMAILS -
CITY EMAILS ARE SAFE, AND WE ARE WORKING TO RESOLVE
The City has implemented several new public communications strategies in recent weeks, and is committed to keeping our permanent residents, second home owners, investors, businesses, and visitors well-informed about the COVID-19 threats in Big Bear Lake and the City's efforts regarding COVID-19 .
This email update is the 15th City update regarding COVID-19, and it has recently come to our attention that some subscribers may be receiving warning messages about the content of these emails. We believe this issue may be related to the various links included in the email, and we are working hard to resolve these issues.

Please continue to use these emails to stay updated about COVID-19 in Big Bear Lake, and please share this information with others! We should have these issues resolved very soon.
COVID-19 DATA PROVIDES HELPFUL PERSPECTIVE
Officially, as of March 28 there remains only one known, confirmed case of COVID-19 in the City of Big Bear Lake (Mayor Rick Herrick), however, another previously untested individual in unincorporated areas of the Big Bear Valley is believed to also have contracted COVID-19 and is currently being treated at a hospital in Loma Linda . San Bernardino County public health officials are expected to release location-specific data for all cities in the County early next week, and data regarding cases in Big Bear Lake will be more readily available at that time.

Based on reports from Bear Valley Community Hospital and the Big Bear Fire Department (the emergency medical services provider for our area), there have been relatively few individuals presenting to these agencies with symptoms. Bear Valley Community Hospital reported 0 patients in its facility this afternoon, and we all obviously hope this trend continues. Bear Valley Community Hospital does have a limited number of COVID-19 test kits available here in the Big Bear Valley, and has been performing tests on those individuals showing the most significant symptoms.

As of March 28, there are now 76 confirmed cases in San Bernardino County. A total of 961 patients have been tested, with approximately 8% of those tested confirmed as having COVID-19. Due to the scarcity of test kits up to this point, only those individuals with the most significant symptoms have been tested, and it is at least somewhat encouraging that only 8% of those exhibiting significant symptoms and actually tested have been confirmed with the virus.

In San Bernardino County, the virus has affected an equal number of men and women, while 29 of the 76 confirmed cases are between the ages of 18 and 49. A total of 12 cases are associated with an outbreak discovered earlier today at a nursing facility in Yucaipa.

San Bernardino County has developed a COVID-19 dashboard that provides helpful information about testing, confirmed cases, available hospital beds, and more, and can be viewed here.
CITY PARKS AND ALPINE PEDAL PATH REMAIN OPEN, BUT PLEASE PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING
EVERYONE is advised to continue to "shelter in place", however, it's permissible to be outside, take a walk, go for a run, take a hike, or ride a bike as long as you practice social distancing. City parks, including the Alpine Pedal Path, remain open for enjoyment by our residents, and we encourage everyone to get some exercise during these challenging times.

If you do plan to enjoy City parks or the Alpine Pedal Path, please heed the following recommendations:

  • enjoy these facilities by yourself, or in the same small family group with whom you are "sheltering in place",

  • avoid close contact with other users,

  • plan your visit for a time of day when not many others are present, and

  • wash your hands before venturing out, and wash your hands when you come back.

The City hopes to keep these facilities open for public use through the COVID-19 emergency, however, overcrowding may result in the closure of these facilities in the future. Please act responsibly, and heed the recommendations noted above.
MENTAL HEALTH ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE
In addition to the direct physical threat, the COVID-19 emergency is an incredibly stressful event for everyone. If you are overwhelmed, consumed by fear or anxiety, and need help, PLEASE contact the Community Crisis Response Team at (909) 421-9233. More information is available here.
ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE FOR LOCAL BUSINESSES, INDIVIDUALS
Yesterday, the US House of Representatives approved the CARES Act (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act), and it was signed into law by President Trump. The CARES Act includes $2.2 trillion in aid for individuals, businesses, State and local government, and institutions. The CARES Act includes funding for loan and grant programs for various business sectors, including the tourism industry. City staff will be analyzing the CARES Act and monitoring new programs that are beneficial to our residents and businesses, and will share pertinent information with the Big Bear Lake community as it becomes known.

Several assistance programs have already been announced, including the following:

  • The City Council has taken action to prohibit residential and commercial evictions due to economic hardship caused by COVID-19, and Governor Newsom recently issued a new executive order to also prohibit evictions.

  • The Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital to California small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of COVID-19. Applicants may apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications here. Applicants may also contact SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955.
 
  • Local employees displaced due to the impact of COVID-19 may be eligible for unemployment insurance benefits, disability insurance, and/or paid family leave through the California Employment Development Department. To learn more, click here.

  • Numerous California banks and mortgage companies are offering grace periods, relief from late fees and other charges, and limiting foreclosure actions. To learn more, click here.


  • The San Bernardino County Tax Collector has announced that late payment penalties will be waived for qualifying residential and business properties if property taxes are paid before June 30. To learn if you qualify, and other details, please call the San Bernardino Tax Collector's office at (909) 387-8308.

For assistance navigating these potential opportunities, please contact Christine Bennett , Senior Administrative Services Analyst at 909-866-5831 .
KEY RESTRICTIONS REMAIN IN EFFECT IN BIG BEAR LAKE
The following key restrictions remain in effect in Big Bear Lake:
 
  • everyone in Big Bear Lake is directed to "shelter in place", especially those age 65 and older and those who are especially vulnerable to COVID-19, however, travel is permitted for work and to conduct personal business,
 
  • grocery stores, drug stores, and other essential retail and service businesses may operate,
 
  • construction and repair activities may continue,
 
  • bars, nightclubs, movie theaters, gyms, bowling alleys, ski areas, snow play areas, and other similar businesses may not operate,
 
  • restaurants are closed for in-restaurant seated dining, however, take-out and delivery services are permitted,
 
  • lodging and vacation rentals may no longer operate, except for very limited situations,
 
  • non-essential group gatherings of any size are prohibited, including commercial establishments, churches, community groups, and other formal and informal group activities, and
 
  • isolated, outdoor exercise is permitted, including walking your dog.
LOCAL GROCERY STORES, RESTAURANTS, PHARMACIES ALL
WORKING HARD TO SERVE YOU!
Local grocery stores, restaurants, and pharmacies are all working hard to provide food, drugs, and other essential items for the people of Big Bear Lake and the entire valley during the COVID-19 emergency, and they are happy to serve you!

Von's is open to the general public from 9 am - 9 pm each day, and offers "Golden Hours" for senior citizens, pregnant women, and those with disabilities each Monday - Friday from 7 am to 9 am in order to provide a safer shopping environment. Stater Brothers is open daily from 8 am - 9 pm, with early entry for senior citizens at 7 am each day. Both stores have limits on the purchase of certain items.

CVS is open from 9 am – 9 pm daily. Walgreens is also open from 9 am - 9 pm daily, with a special 8 am opening for senior citizens on Tuesdays. Both stores have limits on the purchase of certain items.

There are many great restaurants in Big Bear Lake, and these restaurants are all offering take-out and/or delivery options:

Ben & Jerry's
(909) 366-0474 – 652 Pine Knot Ave.

An Ran Ju Gelato & Teahouse
(909) 547-7576 - 546 Pine Knot Ave.

Wyatt's Grill and Saloon
(909) 585-3000 - 42900 Big Bear Blvd.

Amangela’s Sandwich & Bagel House
 (909) 878-0015 - 40729 Village Drive

Alpine Country Coffee Shop
(909) 866-1959 - 41546 Big Bear Blvd.

Grind & Grill Café
(909)866-5219 – 42011 Big Bear Blvd.

The Old German Deli
(909) 878-0515 -40645 Village Drive

Mountain Munchies
(909) 866-7767 – 42171 Big Bear Blvd.

Dank Donuts
(909) 547-6053 - 42612 Moonridge Rd.

Teddy Bear Restaurant
(909) 866-5415 - 583 Pine Knot Ave.

Big Bear Brewing Company
(909) 878-0283 - 40827 Stone Rd

The Boneyard Bar & Grill
(909) 878-0401 – 560 Pine Knot Ave.

Domino’s Pizza
(909) 866-3555 – 41234 Big Bear Blvd.

Nuevo Vallarta Grille
(909) 866-7355 – 40949 Big Bear Blvd.

Get the Burger
(909) 866-8800 – 42151 Big Bear Blvd.

Murray’s Saloon & Eatery
(909) 866-1444 – 672 Cottage Lane

Village Pizza
(909) 866-8505 – 40568 Village Dr.

Maggio’s Pizza
(909) 866-8815 – 42160 Big Bear Blvd.

Red Baron Pizza
(909) 866-4744 - 42173 Big Bear Blvd.

Azteca Grill
(909) 866-2350 - 40199 Big Bear Blvd.

Country Kitchen
(909) 878-0364 – 39904 Big Bear Blvd.

Fuji Restaurant
(909) 866-8108 - 41025 Big Bear Blvd.

Denny’s
(909) 866-7842 – 41196 Big Bear Blvd.

Royal Thai
(909) 866-2808 – 40766 Village Dr.

Saucy Mama’s Pizza & Pasta
(909) 878-0165 – 618 Pine Knot Ave.

Chuang Dynasty
(909) 866-7887 – 40989 Big Bear Blvd.

Jersey Mike’s
(909) 866-0447 – 42173 Big Bear Blvd.

BLT’s Restaurant
(909) 866-6659 – 41799 Big Bear Blvd.

Santana & Maverick’s Unique Crafted Foods
(909) 878-0047 - 40771 Big Bear Blvd.

Café Crepe
(909) 809-2353 – 41003 Big Bear Blvd.

Sonora Cantina
(909) 866-8202 – 41144 Big Bear Blvd.

Barrel 33
(909) 878-0838 – 40754 Village Drive

Mountain Bar & Grill
(909) 878-0802 – 42164 Moonridge Rd.

McDonald’s
(909) 693-5233 - 41412 Big Bear Blvd.

Jack in the Box
(909) 866-6436 – 40771 Village Dr.

El Pollo Loco
(909) 866-1019 – 41383 Big Bear Blvd.

Taco Bell
(909) 866-7778 - 41170 Big Bear Blvd.

If you're tired of cooking, or miss your favorite spot in Big Bear Lake, please order take-out or have it delivered to your home. Please practice effective social distancing when you pick up your food, and wash your hands before and after you visit the restaurant!

If you own a local restaurant, and the City has accidentally not included you on this list, please reply to this email and let us know you are open. We are happy to add your restaurant to the list.
COVID-19 INFORMATION HOTLINE
The San Bernardino County Department of Public Health operates a COVID-19 Hotline for residents with questions about COVID-19. Please call (909) 387-3911 for assistance.
Stay Informed!
Sign up for City of BBL Updates,
Visit Our Other Digital Platforms
The City of Big Bear Lake strives to keep our residents, property owners, investors, businesses, and visitors well-informed about the City's issues and initiatives - including the COVID-19 threat - with an emphasis on information specific to Big Bear Lake and the entire Big Bear Valley.
 
The easiest way to stay-informed is to sign up for the City's email newsletter and other updates. It's easy to sign up - simply visit the City's website and click on "Text & Email Notifications" in the top center of the homepage. Simply click on the link, enter your name and email address, and you're all set. Signing up will ensure that you receive periodic updates about COVID-19 in Big Bear Lake, the City's new monthly newsletter - Elevation 6752', and other special communications from the City of Big Bear Lake for emergency situations, special events, and more.
 
In addition to the City's email updates, you can also get the latest information from the City of Big Bear Lake via the following digital platforms:
 
  • Visit our website by clicking here

  • "Like" us on Facebook - City of Big Bear Lake
 
  • Follow us on Twitter - @CityofBBL
 
  • Follow us on Instagram - @citybigbearlake
 
  • Sign up for text message alerts by clicking here .
 
Please help us spread the word, and share the City's digital communications platforms with your family, friends, other residents, property owners, frequent visitors, or anyone else who is interested in Big Bear Lake. Thank you!
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City of Big Bear Lake
39707 Big Bear Blvd. PO Box 10000, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
Phone: (909) 866-5831 | Fax: (909) 866-5491