The San Bernardino National Forest Association is celebrating a successful Music in the Mountains concert series, the proceeds from which will benefit the Forest Aid tree restoration program and the Lighthouse Project’s Peace Garden project at local elementary schools. Kathy Clapsaddle, event manager for the SBNFA and the outdoor concerts at the Big Bear Discovery Center, tells KBHR that in terms of dollars raised, a figure is not yet available, but with the huge success of the Labor Day weekend’s finale concert, which featured Jim Curry in a John Denver tribute, ticket sales from the sold-out show will ensure that the SBNFA meets its financial goals, while also being able to support Forest Aid and the Peace Gardens. Those lucky enough to enjoy Saturday’s show at the Discovery Center were treated to the addition of St. Columba’s Father Joe Frazier singing with Curry, which is notable in that Frazier used to sing alongside John Denver when both were in the Chad Mitchell Trio. In fact, the trio will be performing at the Performing Arts Center on December 5, as a fundraiser for St. Columba’s Episcopal Church, and Jim Curry will be the trio’s opening act here in Big Bear. Saturday’s show at the Discovery Center also included a special acknowledgement of local youth volunteers, and the announcement that the SBNFA’s Alison Bates has been promoted to Deputy Director, given the pending retirement of the Discovery Center’s Denis Thomas.
