Highway Robbery

On my way back from the slopes last Saturday I counted 873 vehicles that had pulled off the highway between Big Bear and the upper passing lane of Highway 330. People were clearly enjoying the snow, sledding and throwing snowballs or just enjoying the view. Of these, 14 vehicles had paid admission to the national forest and were displaying the required Adventure Pass. Yes, I counted. That means that 859 drivers were in violation of federal law, punishable by up to six months in jail and/or a fine of up to $5,000.

Watch out, folks. In his budget, President Bush has proposed making this Recreation Fee Demonstration Program permanent because of its “success.”

Kari Enge

Running Springs