Big Bear Lake, CA, June 12th, 2016 – The Big Bear Chamber of Commerce “Summit Award” recognizes local businesses that have made significant contributions to Big Bear Valley’s economic growth. KBHR Radio & Outdoor was awarded the “Summit Award” by the Big Bear Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday, June 7, 2016 at the “Salute to Business Breakfast & Chamber Annual Meeting”
KBHR Radio and Outdoor is honored to have received the prestigious Summit Award from the Big Bear Chamber of Commerce for making significant contributions to Big Bear Valley’s economy and for inspiring excellence in business. This is only the second time this award has been given. Last year’s recipient was Dick Kun of Snow Summit. KBHR was also recognized with a Proclamation from the City of Big Bear Lake, Certificates of Recognition from State Senator Mike Morrell, Assemblyman Jay Obernolte and Bob Dutton, San Bernardino County Assessor, Recorder and Clerk. Upon receiving the award at Tuesday’s reception, along with wife and business partner, Cathy Herrick, Kbear’s President and General Manager, Rick Herrick stated, “So to the Chamber of Commerce, EBBIE Chairman Lisa Patterson and Executive Director Pam Scannell and the entire EBBIE Committee, thank you. This is a moment for me to reflect on the last 22 years in Big Bear, as well as what lies ahead. The Summit may be defined as “the top” but with new mountains to climb everyday … our journey continues.”
Built from scratch, KBHR Radio & Outdoor has become a pillar of the Big Bear community. Owner Rick Herrick purchased the FCC license for KBHR and met his wife Cathy both in 1991. Rick and Cathy married in 1994, moved to Big Bear in 1995 and began building the radio station, starting with the tower. They have continued to build the business over the years, including a brand new home office for the station in Big Bear City built by local contractors. KBHR Radio & Outdoor consists of the popular local radio station KBHR 93.3FM (which now also broadcasts on 102.5FM allowing better reception in certain areas) and the outdoor bus station billboards.
KBHR Radio & Outdoor stays focused on its two customer groups – local businesses who want to market themselves to the Big Bear community and KBHR listeners. The Herricks’ philosophy is that “KBHR sells success” and they help local businesses grow with customized marketing campaigns based on an in-depth understanding of the business and its customers. KBHR serves their listeners by providing a wide variety of music and local news delivered in an increasing variety of ways – radio, website and social media such as Facebook and Twitter. Currently in development is a mini mobile app to allow streaming KBHR through your smart phone.
KBHR keeps Big Bear Valley connected. Local events are constantly promoted and Big Bear’s local nonprofits count on KBHR to air free public service announcements to help them succeed in their good works. And when an emergency strikes the Big Bear Valley, KBHR can be counted on to provide accurate and timely information.
Community service is a core value of KBHR Radio & Outdoor. KBHR has even won a National Association of Broadcasters “Crystal Award” for year-round commitment to local community service. Rick has served tirelessly on a variety of community boards over many years, including the Boards of the Big Bear Chamber of Commerce and Big Bear Lake DWP and he currently serves on the Big Bear Lake City Council. Cathy has served as Board President at both Big Bear Elementary and Big Bear Middle School and is currently serving on the Bear Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees.
Asked for their best advice for long-term business success in Big Bear Valley, the Herricks say to create and follow a business plan, be prepared financially and with a targeted marketing strategy, keep your name out there consistently and be involved in the Big Bear community.
