Celebrating 5 years of bringing people together through healing and connection
Rattlesnake
Ssssssssseason
What to know, where to step and how to stay safe with your pup
Upcoming Events
• Grace’s Place 2nd Annual Starlight Gala – July 12
• Wings & Things Festival – July 12 & August 9
• Wellness Connected Festival – July 26-27
• Puptopia – July 26
• Monster Energy Pro Downhill – July 31-August 3
• Tour de Big Bear – August 1-3
• Big Bear Theatre Project presents Stoneface –August 8-17
• First Annual MX Grand Prix – August 21–24
Birds After The Burn
How communities can help wildlife recover from wildfires
CARVE DIEM
From Forest to Masterpiece
A look at the artistry of chainsaw sculptor Jamie Doeren
SHOP LOCAL EAT LOCAL SPEND LOCAL ENJOY LOCAL
Cover Photo by Dorothy Cline
Growing & AcceptingNow
David Yomtoob,
John Nicolaisen, PA-C
Jamie Davidson, NP
Alex Weis
William Cannata,
John Nunn,
Paul Stemmer, MD
Olivia Bockoff, PA
Jessica Rule, PA
WHAT’S INSIDE
JULY/AUGUST 2025
What’s happening in Big Bear?
Highlighting beautiful photos by area photographers.
The Wellness Connected Festival — Wellness for Everyone.
Carve Diem: Jamie Doeren — From Forest to Masterpiece.
Grace’s Place Foundation: Empowering Women, Transforming Communities — One Brave Step at a Time.
Birds After the Burn — How Communities Can Help Wildlife Recover From Wildfires.
Rattlesnake Sssssssssseason — Safety For You and Your Furry BFF.
Did you Know? Before & After.
PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/OWNER
Jessica Nemeth
Contributing Writers
Dorothy Cline
Traci Palmer
Cover Photo
Dorothy Cline
Advertising
Jessica Nemeth
Contact Info (909) 676-1006
BigBearConnection@gmail.com
Contributing Photographers
Dorothy Cline
Shane Nicholes
Layout & Design
walton@revyved.com
View online at www.BigBearConnection.com
Have a story to share, a photo you think is fantastic….an idea for a future issue? Please contact us!
Every effort is made to avoid errors, misspellings, and omissions. If you find any, please bring them to our attention and accept our sincerest apologies. Thanks!
This summer, escape the heat and elevate your experience at Big Bear Lake — where crisp mountain air, sparkling waters, and vibrant culture come together at 6,700 feet. Just a few hours from the city, a lineup of exciting events awaits, offering the perfect blend of adventure, music, and family fun.
It all starts July 25–26 as Puptopia Festival returns to Veterans Park — a canine celebration featuring splash zones, treat stations, grooming lounges, and pup-sized competitions. It’s the ultimate weekend for four-legged friends and their humans. Come for the tail wags, stay for the memories.
That same weekend, Big Bear’s free Summer Concert Series lights up The Village with electric performances from high-energy funk, soul, and brass bands like Jungle Fire, Mestizo Beat, and 24k Magic. Bring your lawn chairs, grab a local craft brew, and dance into the alpine night.
From July 31 to August 3, Big Bear shifts into high gear as the Monster Energy Pro Downhill Championship takes over Snow Summit. Elite riders tear through the legendary 10-Ply trail in a thrilling showcase of speed, skill, and pure gravity-fed adrenaline.
Then on August 2, thousands of cyclists gather for Tour de Big Bear — one of the nation’s premier Gran Fondos. Whether you’re up for a scenic 25-mile cruise or a grueling 100-mile challenge, the ride offers road and gravel routes for every level, with stunning alpine views, live music, and legendary rest stops along the way.
Big Bear Lake is more than a destination — it’s a summer state of mind. Whether you’re dancing at dusk, racing through pines, or strolling The Village with your pup, there’s something for everyone in every moment.
Explore the full lineup and get your tickets at BigBear.com
Publisher’s Note
July/August, 2025 – The Big Bear Connection
Hello Big Bear!
What a ride it’s been these past few months! The response to this magazine has been so positive—it’s truly warmed my heart. Starting The Big Bear Connection has turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I’m thrilled to bring you another issue filled with stories, events, and local legends that celebrate the spirit of our mountain town.
This edition is bursting with summer energy. We’re highlighting the much-loved Wellness Connected Festival happening Saturday, July 26th - Sunday, July 27th. Hosted by the amazing Selia Jimenez of Canna Massage. She’s poured years of love and effort into this event—featuring everything from sound baths to drum circles to dancing with Eric Running Path, an Indigenous Eagle Dancer, alongside his son… to laughter yoga with Celebrity Guru Yogi Ramesh. It’s a celebration of healing and connection for all ages.
Also, featured is Jamie Doeren, a master chainsaw artist whose breathtaking sculptures are nothing short of awe-inspiring. His story is beautifully told by Dorothy Cline, whose writing brings his craft to life in a way that’s both powerful and personal.
Plus, Randall Putz, owner of Chirp Nature Center contributes a thoughtful article written by Traci Palmer, on wildfires and our local bird habitat—an important read as we reflect on Big Bear’s upcoming anniversary of the 2024 wildfire and how fire connects all Californians, from LA to San Diego and beyond.
I’m proud to shine a light on the upcoming Grace’s Place 2nd Annual Starlight Gala, happening July 12th. This compassionate community continues to be a powerful source of healing, recovery, and growth for women and children seeking a life free from abuse. It’s a night of purpose and hope, and I encourage everyone to show their support.
Calling all dog lovers and pet parents: Puptopia returns on July 26! Have fun at this tail-wagging festival made just for people and their pets. It’s pure joy on four legs.
Also on the calendar: the Wings & Things Festival at the Big Bear Discovery Center, happening July 12 and again on August 9. This fun, family-friendly event celebrates birds, butterflies, and all things that take flight in our beautiful forest skies.
Calling all theater lovers: the Big Bear Theatre Project presents Stoneface, running August 8–17. Don’t miss this powerful stage production that blends history and heart.
And now for the adrenaline lovers— gear up for the Monster Energy Pro Downhill, happening July 31–August 3 at Snow Summit. This high-intensity mountain biking competition draws elite athletes, media, and adrenaline seekers from across the country.
The legendary Tour de Big Bear is rolling through town again from August 1st–3rd—a celebration of cycling, community, and mountain adventure that brings together athletes and fans from all over.
The First Annual MX Grand Prix, coming August 21–24—don’t miss this thrilling event for riders and fans of high-flying action. If you love speed, skill, and serious thrills—this is the one to watch!
On a personal note, beyond being your magazine publisher, I’m also a certified hypnotherapist and have an advertisement on page 13. After a difficult time in my life, hypnotherapy helped me quit smoking and heal from that difficult time—and that healing experience inspired me to pursue it professionally. I’ve been practicing on and off since 2020. It’s truly one of my greatest passions. I’m proud to say, I have not had a cigarette in 16 years. It’s safe, gentle and very relaxing.
A huge thank-you to Dorothy Cline—not only for her wonderful article on Jamie Doeren, but also for capturing our vibrant summer cover photo. She’s got a great eye, great legs, and one seriously cool tattoo!
And a special shout-out to Shane Nichols for the stunning twopage photo spread in this issue. Your talent adds so much beauty and depth to these pages—thank you!
And to all of my advertisers—thank you. Without your support, The Big Bear Connection simply wouldn’t exist. You make this publication possible, and I’m endlessly grateful.
This journey has been more fulfilling than I ever imagined. Thank you for reading, supporting, and being part of this growing Big Bear Connection community.
With love & gratitude!
Jessica Nemeth Publisher, The Big Bear Connection
The Wellness Connected Festival Wellness for everyone
by Jessica Nemeth
Get ready to experience a transformative weekend as the Wellness Connected Festival marks its fifth anniversary with its biggest celebration yet!
Hosted by Selia Jimenez, owner of Soothing Canna Massage and Wellness, this cherished gathering has grown from humble beginnings into one of Big Bear’s most anticipated wellness events. What started as a small monthly summer pop-up fair has now evolved into a vibrant two-day festival filled with healing, learning, and connection—and this year, Selia has truly pulled out all the stops.
This milestone celebration will take place at the beautifully remodeled Chateau Big Bear Boutique Hotel, offering an inviting, nature-filled space that perfectly complements the event’s mission of harmony and holistic well-being. With the stunning backdrop of Big Bear Lake and fresh mountain air, attendees can expect to be fully immersed in a nurturing environment that supports personal transformation. Formerly known as the Wellness Connected Natural
Healing Yoga and Artisan Faire, the festival has deep roots in the Big Bear community. Over the past five years, it has grown into a hub for holistic health and conscious living. The event now attracts an inspiring mix of renowned healers, practitioners, educators, and artisans from not only Big Bear Lake but also nearby mountain communities, creating a powerful synergy of local and regional wisdom.
Throughout the weekend, festival-goers are invited to explore a diverse array of wellness experiences thoughtfully curated to uplift the spirit, heal the body, and inspire the mind. From interactive exhibits and hands-on workshops to intimate ceremonies and highenergy movement sessions, the offerings are designed for all levels and interests.
One of the most anticipated moments of this year’s celebration is the mesmerizing appearance of Eric Running Path, a deeply respected Indigenous Eagle Dancer, who will be performing alongside his son. Their sacred performance will include the Eagle Dance, Grass Dance, and the awe-inspiring Hoop Dance, all of which are rich in symbolism and cultural heritage.
Beyond the visual beauty, their presentation offers powerful educational insights into the traditions of the Yuhaaviatam—the Indigenous people of the San Bernardino Mountains—and honors the land and its ancestral spirit. There will be opportunities for audience interaction, especially for children, fostering crosscultural connection and understanding in a meaningful and respectful way.
Another highlight of the festival is the joyful presence of Celebrity Guru Yogi Ramesh, who brings his signature “Laughter is Medicine” workshop to Big Bear. A lifelong yogi with over five decades of experience, Yogi Ramesh is internationally known for using Laughter Yoga to awaken inner joy, peace, and well-being. His infectious energy and wisdom create a safe and spirited space where participants are encouraged to let go of stress, release endorphins, and experience the profound healing that comes through laughter. His 90-minute session promises to be a joyful journey into heart-centered bliss.
Beyond these standout events, the weekend is packed with a wide-ranging lineup of indoor and outdoor activities. Guests can participate in drum circles, cacao ceremonies, yoga sessions, sound baths, Qigong, music therapy, and educational offerings focused on holistic farming and microgreens. Each session is an invitation to explore deeper levels of awareness and well-being, facilitated by compassionate guides and seasoned practitioners.
The festival also welcomes influential speakers and life coaches, some of whom have graced prestigious stages like TED Talks. These thought leaders will offer engaging talks and workshops covering topics such as mental health, emotional resilience, energy healing, and the journey toward self-empowerment. Whether you’re
navigating a challenging life chapter or simply curious about expanding your personal growth, there’s guidance and support here for every step of the path.
Vibrant artisan markets featuring handcrafted goods, wellness products, and local food vendors will also be part of the weekend experience, giving attendees a chance to connect with small business owners and support local creativity.
At its heart, the Wellness Connected Festival is much more than a weekend of activities—it is a sacred gathering of souls. Selia’s vision has always been to create a space where people can share their wisdom, ignite healing, nurture community, and inspire lasting transformation. The festival is a collective call to awaken the spirit, uplift the vibration of the community, and cultivate love and light in every offering.
Whether you’re a seasoned wellness enthusiast, a local artisan, a holistic health practitioner, or simply someone on a healing journey seeking inspiration, this festival offers a truly unique and meaningful experience for everyone. It’s an invitation to reconnect with yourself, with others, and with the natural world.
As the festival marks its fifth year, its impact continues to grow—spreading light, connection, and holistic healing to all who attend. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a heartfelt movement that celebrates unity, renewal, and the beauty of living well.
Chainsaw carving is an exciting fusion of brute strength and delicate artistry, where the roaring blade of the chainsaw transforms wood into aweinspiring sculpture. And Jamie Doeren is a master at his craft.
Jamie Doeren began as a chainsaw artist accidentally in 1987 while working as a small engine mechanic, repairing them. Whenever he fixed one, he would have to test it out and he got bored with monotonously cutting the ends off logs! Inspiration sparked out of boredom and he began carving simple shapes like a ball in a cage, chain links, mushrooms, and trees. Over time, he advanced to creating more detailed carvings of eagles and bears. “People started to take notice and wanted to buy my carvings… it wasn’t long before I was making more money carving than I was at my job, so I quit my job and became a full-time carver”. The rest, as they say, is history!
Although originally from Wisconsin, Big Bear Lake has quickly become the location of his heart and one of his main galleries, as it has such a strong emotional significance for his family. Currently Jamie has two studio locations- one in Big Bear Lake- Freedom Arts Studios and the other one in Abrams, Wisconsin -Renegade Carving Company.
“Freedom Arts Studios was established by our late son Zach Doeren in 2023. Zach learned the art of chainsaw carving from me as a teenager and became a full-time chainsaw artist at the age of 18 and fell in love with Big Bear and the freedom of being a full-time chainsaw carver. He spent several years carving for various shops in Big Bear and Running Springs but ultimately always wanted to have his own shop.”
In 2023, Jamie and his family proudly celebrated as Zach finally made his dream reality and established his own shop- Freedom Arts Studios in Big Bear Lake. Tragically Zach Doeren passed away suddenly in 2024 just after seeing his vision come to fruition.
Jamie Doeren, despite his grief, wields the chainsaw like a knight with a sword in Zach’s memory and continues to breathe life into towering tree trunks and massive slabs, sculpting everything from lifelike animals and mythical
creatures to abstract forms. A few of Jamie’s many claimsto-fame include a massive totem pole for a customer in Wisconsin as well as a forty-foot mountain lion piece for Tommy Hilfiger. The impressive scale and artistry of his chainsaw sculptures not only highlight his exceptional craftsmanship but also the natural beauty of wood in its most magnificent raw form. Each grain tells a story, each serpentine knot adds character, and each finished piece is as unique as the tree from which it came and the artist who brought it to life.
Becoming a chainsaw artist is not for the faint of heart. It requires much more than just technical ability, physical strength, and, well let’s face it…courage! It also demands a deep connection with the material. Jamie must understand the properties of distinct types of wood, and have an intimate knowledge of its strengths, weaknesses, and quirks. Choosing the right wood for the sculpture is key. Factors such as durability, grain pattern, and workability influence his choice. The first shaping lays the foundation for the details that will follow and using the wrong type of wood could potentially result in an epic failure resulting in a lost commission.
The carving process is intricate as well; “(I) start at the top and work my way down…” Jamie explains. “Depends
on the project I’m working on… If it’s a larger project or something that I haven’t carved before, I’ll research the subject by gathering pictures or other figurines. Oftentimes, I’ll print off a bunch of photos of the subject from all angles. Sometimes I will even make a clay model of it - a maquette. And many times, I’ll draw the subject and create a grid, so that I keep the proportions in order when I’m carving.”
Doeren shares a funny story from his adventures in carving: “One time I was on a serious deadline to have a carving done and I had procrastinated until the eleventh hour. I had just finished carving it about two hours before it needed to be delivered. The only things left to do were burn it, sand it and paint it, which normally would have been easy peasy…” Jamie explains that the torching process is a standard thing artists do to finish a carving as it typically sears off the splinters, rough edges, and brings out the wood grain. “On this occasion, when we started torching the carving, the flames ignited a sap pocket and the whole carving shot up in flames - like really big, hot flames. My wife was scrambling around trying to find buckets or a hose long enough to spray it down, while I was trying to snuff out the fire with a blanket… In the end I ended up having to use a fire extinguisher to get the flames
out before the whole thing burned up. At this point, we had maybe an hour left until the installation deadline, so my wife and I had to bust our butts to sand off all the black soot and fire extinguisher residue and still get the thing ready for presentation. We literally almost killed ourselves making the deadline, but we did it. Covered head to toe in black soot and sweat, we went right to the store and ended up buying four watermelons because we were so overheated and thirsty…. I’m sure we were a sight to behold!”
Fun sidebar: Jamie’s wife, Lisa Doeren, has been known to chainsaw, making them a true power couple. A couple that carves together, stays together.
Jamie Doeren’s journey transcends the boundaries of artistry, resilience, and an unwavering spirit. His work stands as a testament to the power of creativity to heal, endure, and inspire. Through every cut made by his chainsaw and every curve of wood, Jamie carves not just masterpieces, but also a story of love, loss, and triumph. Even in the face of adversity, beauty can emerge from the roughest edges.
Grace’s Place Foundation
Empowering Women. Transforming Communities. One Brave Step at a Time.
By Janet Grace
In the quiet chaos of 2020, when the world was locked down and women and children found themselves locked in, a divine message ignited a movement. “It’s time to eliminate abuse on the planet in your lifetime, Go!” These words, a call from God, sparked the birth of Grace’s Place Foundation—a sanctuary where hope blooms and lives are reborn.
For every woman who escapes the clutches of domestic abuse, the journey toward healing is just beginning.
At Grace’s Place, we believe in more than just providing resources; we craft relationships. Our foundation stands as a beacon of hope, offering one-on-one support, mentorship, leadership programs, trauma-informed coaching, and most importantly, a community of women who truly understand the courage it takes to start anew.
We walk hand-in-hand with each woman as she rebuilds her confidence, creates a stable environment for her children, and discovers the true meaning of thriving—not just surviving. We offer empowering programs for every age group as we inspire individuals to know their value and the difference they make in their families, their communities, and the world.
Our transformational program “Freedom Beyond Abuse” that offers empowering tools to support women’s futures, launches again in September, serving women locally and impacting communities globally.
As Linda T. expressed: “The program gifted me invaluable tools to navigate life’s challenges. Grace’s Place empowers me to live my best life, breaking generational trauma for my family.”
Every child deserves a future, free from abuse.
On July 12th, 2025, we invite you to become part of this transformative journey as you join us for our 2nd Annual “StarLight” Gala.
Saturday, July 12, 5-9pm at Sessions Retreat and Hotel 41421 Big Bear BIvd. BBL, CA
The Gala is more than a fundraiser—it’s a celebration of resilience and renewal. Join us for an unforgettable night filled with joy, community, live music, dancing, delicious cuisine, and heartfelt stories of celebration. Here, purpose meets celebration, and every dollar raised directly funds the hands-on work that changes lives.
We are also opening our doors to sponsors—visionaries and community leaders who want to be part of something that truly matters. Sponsoring the Gala offers more than visibility; it offers meaningful impact. You will be part of lifting women up and helping them rise into their full power.
Whether you come to support, to celebrate, or to dance the night away, we promise this will be a night you’ll never forget.
Because when women rise, communities heal. And that’s a reason to celebrate. Let’s Unite, Celebrate, and Change lives… for the Better!!!!
For More information and Gala Tickets visit www.GracesPlaceFoundation.org
Unlocking Opportunity for Your Business
Whether you’re a long-standing local business, a new entrepreneur, or a remote worker, joining the Big Bear Chamber of Commerce is one of the smartest investments you can make for your business:
1. Amplify Your Visibility
As a member, your business is featured in the Chamber’s online directory, seen by thousands. Through social media shout-outs, business of the week, and business events, your name gets in front of locals, tourists and second homeowners alike.
2. Expand Your Network
Relationships matter. The Chamber hosts networking events, for meeting potential customers, business owners and community leaders. These connections can lead to longterm partnerships and increased sales.
3. Stay Informed and Empowered
The Chamber offers educational workshops, business articles in eNews, an extensive resources library, and industry-specific seminars to strengthen your knowledge base and help your business thrive and grow.
4. Advocate for Local Business
The Chamber is the voice of business in Bear Valley. The Chamber monitors government actions and proposals that affect your business. As a member, you help shape the future of commerce in Big Bear.
5. Be a Pillar of the Community
Joining the Chamber is about being part of something bigger than yourself. Supporting the Chamber’s work and contributing to economic resilience make your business a recognized and respected force in Big Bear.
Join the Chamber Family
Join a community of passionate, innovative, and supportive professionals who believe in working together to make Big Bear the best it can be. Contact us to learn more. Call (909) 866-4607, or email office@bigbearchamber. com or visit us on the 1st floor at 41693 Big Bear Boulevard, Big Bear Lake.
Birds After the Burn
HowCommunitiesCanHelpWildlifeRecoverfromWildfires
By Traci Palmer — CourtesyofRandallPutz,ChirpNatureCenter
Whenwildfires tear through our landscapes, the damage extends far beyond scorched trees and empty trails. They drive wildlife from their homes, disrupt delicate ecosystems, and force communities to become emergency shelters for nature. In the wake of the Line Fire, which scorched nearly 44,000 acres of the San Bernardino National Forest, our Valley now stands at the edge of that disruption and at the center of the recovery.
A Landscape Transformed
The Line Fire burned nearly 70 square miles of forestland, right up to the edge of Big Bear Valley. What was once a vibrant landscape, full of birdsong and shade, has been reduced in many areas to ash and silence. While the physical scars will take decades to heal, if they ever fully do, the more immediate challenge is what happens to the animals that once called this forest home.
Among the most visibly affected are the birds. Those that survived the blaze didn’t just lose their nests. They lost their food, water sources, and protective cover. With nowhere left to go, they’ve been forced to search for new habitats, often turning up in greater numbers than usual in the Valley’s backyards.
Birds on the Move
Since the Line Fire, many residents have noticed a lasting increase in bird activity—more frequent visitors to feeders, new species they haven’t seen before, and an overall uptick in bird presence. This isn’t a coincidence. Displaced by the fire, birds have been steadily seeking new habitats. They’re not migrating in the traditional sense. They’re adapting in order to survive.
Backyards, balconies, and gardens that once served as occasional resting spots have now become vital support zones. Our communities are no longer on the fringe of the forest. They are part of the emergency habitat system that helps fill the gap left by the fire.
Already Under Pressure
Even before the Line Fire, many bird populations were under pressure. Habitat loss, climate change, and urban expansion have contributed to steep declines in native bird numbers across California. A fire of this scale doesn’t just displace birds. It accelerates those declines.
Sensitive species may never recover from a single catastrophic event like this. Others may find temporary shelter, only to struggle in unfamiliar environments with limited resources. That’s why every act of support now becomes a critical piece of a broader conservation effort.
How You Can Help: Backyard Habitats
Fortunately, supporting birds doesn’t require a lot of space or even much money. The basics are simple, and they make a big difference.
• Keep bird feeders clean and full, especially in late spring and summer when food sources are still recovering.
• Provide shallow dishes of clean water for drinking and bathing.
• Let native plants grow to offer food and natural cover.
• Avoid using pesticides and herbicides that may harm birds or the insects they feed on.
These simple actions can transform your space into a vital stopover or even a long-term haven for displaced wildlife.
Special Focus: Hummingbirds
Among the most vulnerable of the displaced birds are hummingbirds. With their high metabolism and need for frequent feeding, they rely on consistent access to nectar. Wildfires wipe out the natural blooms these tiny birds depend on. With their instinctual feeding routes disrupted, they often struggle to adapt.
You can help by mixing your own nectar at home. Use four parts water to one part white sugar, with no dye, and keep feeders fresh and clean. This consistent, simple care can help hummingbirds survive when natural food sources have vanished.
Trusted Tips from Chirp
Chirp, a local birding organization based right here in the San Bernardino Mountains, has created a clear and practical checklist for post-fire bird care. Among their top recommendations:
• Be consistent with food and water.
• Clean feeders at least once a week to prevent disease.
• Use window decals to reduce the risk of birds colliding with glass.
• Keep cats indoors. Outdoor cats are one of the leading causes of bird deaths in North America, responsible for billions of losses each year.
Individually, these steps may seem small. Together, they reduce stress and injury and help maintain healthier local bird populations through the toughest of times.
A Community Response
One household helping birds is meaningful. A neighborhood doing it together is powerful. As residents,
we have the chance to create a connected network of safe havens, with each backyard contributing to a shared solution.
Talk to your neighbors. Share resources. Encourage local schools and community centers to get involved. Join or support local habitat restoration projects. When we act as a community, we create a buffer zone that softens the blow of habitat loss and helps species rebuild.
Recovery Takes Time but Help Can Start Now
We won’t see the forest return overnight. Recovery takes years, if not decades. But we don’t have to wait to make a difference. Each feeder hung today, each clean water dish set out, and each patch of native plant grown in place of lawn adds up to meaningful action.
Even in burned-out areas, signs of renewal are already emerging. Sprouts push through ash, and birds are returning to feed fledglings in altered landscapes. Hope is alive in these moments, and our actions can support that hope.
Want to Do More?
For those ready to go beyond the backyard, here are some trusted places to turn:
Chirp Nature Center: Find guides, bird feeding supplies, and expert advice in person at their Big Bear Lake Village location, 578 Bonanza Trail. You can also find extensive educational resources, including a live birdcam, online at chirpforbirds.com.
Cal Fire: Stay informed about wildfire impacts and forest recovery at www.fire.ca.gov.
Local Rehabilitation: The Big Bear Alpine Zoo supports rehabilitation and conservation efforts, and is a great way to spend a couple of hours observing unique mountain animals: bigbearzoo.org.
Rattlesnake Ssssssssseason
By Dorothy Cline
Rattlesnake
Ssssssssseason is slithering towards us, and you and your furry BFF need to know all the deets to make your outdoor adventures safe and injury-free.
Snakes naturally love to sunbathe and seek out sunny spots, usually on the edge of hiking trails, parks, and walking paths. From April through October, these cold-blooded animals are the most active in areas popular with hikers and campers. In the heat of Summer, rattlers look for places out of the afternoon sun. They frequently hang out in wood piles, heavy shrubs, and under logs or good-sized shady rocks. Rattlesnakes can also be found near our homes. To keep rattlesnakes away from your home, clear away debris and thick vegetation that can attract rodents, which are their primary food source. Be mindful while gardening, supervise your pets and children, and monitor sandboxes and shady play areas.
Truth is, Rattlesnakes are shy by nature and generally strike only when they are startled, frightened, or threatened. They are not evil and ‘out to get you’ or your pup. Attaching a bell to your dog’s collar while hiking is a great way to alert snakes and avoid surprises.
Most naturally curious canines have no clue that rattlesnakes are a potential threat and will willingly approach them, even if they have never been bitten. Rattlesnake Aversion Training safely and effectively teaches the dangers of rattlesnakes and how to avoid them.
If your precious pet is punctured, keep your dog and yourself calm and quiet as movement and adrenaline can spread venom faster. Remove your dog’s collar immediately. The venom causes swelling in the head and neck and can be severe, potentially causing breathing problems if the collar is left on. If the bite wound is visible, you can rinse it with cold water to help wash away some of the venom; however, never try to suck the venom out of the wound. Take your dog to an emergency veterinary clinic immediately. Your FURbaby will need urgent IV fluids, antivenin, antibiotics, and 24-hour monitoring. Rattlesnake bites can lead to bleeding, swelling, extremely low blood pressure, breathing difficulties, and shock. Such bites can be fatal for dogs, especially in smaller breeds, and the location of the bite. The face and neck are usually the prime locations for the bite and are especially dangerous.
To find out what snakes live in your area or while traveling, there are a few beneficial links and APPS such as CroFab (www.Crofab.com), Snake Identifier (available through the Apple Store), and Snake Snap (www.snakesnap.co).
You will need to call the vet clinic on the way to the hospital because not all emergency veterinary practices stock rattlesnake antivenin.
UNDERSTANDING THE RATTLESNAKE VACCINE
This vaccine is available at your local veterinary clinic, and it lessens the severity of a rattlesnake bite by working to stimulate the dog’s immune system to produce antibodies against the venom of the snake. The rattlesnake vaccine will considerably increase your dog’s chances of survival by adding more time to get your furry BFF to a veterinarian; HOWEVER, it DOES NOT make your dog immune to rattlesnake bite effects.
MYTHS DEBUNKED
Myth: Baby rattlesnakes are more dangerous. Wrong! Fact: Baby rattlesnakes have smaller venom glands resulting in a lower quantity of venom available for injection during a bite. Both juvenile and adult rattlesnakes can regulate the amount of venom they deliver (Source: https://wildlife.ca.gov.)
Myth: A snake can only strike when coiled. Wrong Again! Fact: Although they frequently coil into a defensive stance before striking, this acts as a warning and it is not necessary for them to strike. Snakes can strike from different positions, such as when their body is straight or even while in motion.
Into the woods you MUST go!
Now get out there, explore the trails with your furry bestie, enjoy the natural surroundings together, and know that you are both ready for any adventure.
Help Find Me A Home.
Meet: OLIVIA (A820444)
Gender: Female
Breed: Shepherd mix
Age: 8 months old
Black shepherd
Location: Big Bear Animal Shelter - (909) 866-4943
Location: Big Bear Animal Shelter - (909) 866-4943
DID YOU KNOW?
By Jonni Vindiola Curator, The Big Bear Historical Society
When coming into Big Bear Lake via Highway 18, right before crossing the dam bridge, look to the right and you may have noticed a huge turn-out with a beautiful rock wall.
This was the site of the Bear Creek Lodge. The water that can be seen cascading down the canyon below is Bear Creek. It was a popular spot for hiking and fishing. Merchants and resort owners were always looking for a way to attract visitors. One of the biggest draws was to be the very first stop people would encounter after a long and dusty drive up the mountain. When looking at the two photos, you will notice the magnificent Jeffrey pine still stands watching over the valley and canyon.
Monster Energy hosts the new US Downhill Mountain Bike Championship at Summit Bike Park this 2025. Watch pro and amateur riders race for glory down the famous double black diamond trail 10-Ply. This event is the USAC National Championships!
www.BigBearConnection.com
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BIG BEAR MARKET UPDATE
Big Bear Market Stats (Big Bear MLS & out of area MLS)
• Active Single-Family Residential Listings: 743 (A normal market has a 6-month supply of homes for sale.)
• Sold in the past 6 months: 341
• Sold in the past 30 days: 56
• Open escrows: 77
• List price range: $191,000$9,999,999!
ROOTED
IN HISTORY
TheGrizzly Theater was built by Frank Johnson in 1920 (Frank Johnson was the man who converted the Fisher Estate into Lagunita Lodge). Big Bear Historian, Tom Core, told the story that when the theater had its debut night, the theater seats had not yet arrived. Patrons brought their own
Data as of 6/23/25
• Median Sales Price (for the past 90 days): $466,000
• Ave. sales price to list price (for the past 90 days): 97.49% of asking (94.44% of original asking price)
• Average days on market: 105
• Price reductions in the past 7 days: 52 Email me today for your free market update and expert assistance with your property search and/ or home sale. I would love to help!
A Celebration of Big Bear’s Rich History
seats in order to watch the movie. The theater was known for showing silent films, using two Simplex projectors and an organ for accompaniment. The Grizzly Theater burned to the ground in June, 1941. The site of the former Grizzly Theater is where “Jack In The Box” now sits in the Big Bear Village.
As a lifelong resident of Big Bear with 20 years of real estate sales experience, I am confident I can get the job done for you! My family has been in Big Bear for several generations, and my husband and I raised our two boys here as well.
I am a local expert and Certified Big Bear Resort Property Specialist. Whether you are buying, selling, or an agent looking to refer your clients
to a trusted, reliable source, please call me! I am passionate about what I do, and I look forward to helping you achieve your real estate dreams and goals!
If you need anything, please don’t hesitate to contact me directly at 909-261-2486. I look forward to helping! Thank you. Nothin’ but the best! God bless!
Story and historical information provided by Mark Durban.
