After having lived in the Antelope Valley on and off for over 50 years, Dave and Belinda White retired to beautiful Bear Valley Springs. One of the reasons they loved the location was the friendliness of the town. Also, they could still be close to their families, yet away from the baking summer temperatures in the Antelope Valley. They found their property two years ago and began to build the dream home that they finally moved into in April.

Dave recently retired from the Antelope Valley Hospital after a 35 year career as a bio-medical engineer. Belinda was employed by Los Angeles County Public Works in Lancaster in field business operations at the time of her retirement.

Belinda said that her parents came from Texas and lived in the Antelope Valley for 64 years. She was born in the Antelope Valley. Her mother, now 91 years old, was once a teaching assistant in Rosamond. Her father had been a civil service worker at Edwards Air Force Base for 40 years.

Dave moved to the Antelope Valley as a teenager. He and Belinda met in high school and have been together ever since. She said that her sister's husband was Dave's best friend. The Whites have two grown sons, Andrew and Danny. Andrew is the father the couple's two grandchildren, a little girl and a brand new little boy.

As hikers, both Belinda and Dave love being near the trails and as Dave is also a golfer, he is really looking forward to spending time on the links. Belinda said she has a list of activities she wants to get try, including Pickleball. She also plays Bunco.

Dave said the next project at the new house is to build a fence so Bear, their 13-year-old Shepherd mix, can spend time alone outdoors.

A big Tehachapi welcome to the White household. We are delighted that you chose our community.

If you have moved to Tehachapi within the last six months, Hilltop Welcoming Service has a bag of information about the Greater Tehachapi area, its activities, events, government and facilities. There are always a few coupons and gifts, as well. It is a great way to learn about your new community. Being part of this column is strictly optional. If you would like a visit from the Welcome Hostess contact our office at (661) 822-8188.