Crestline 4th July Parade and Booth!
Join Us for Crestline's 4th of July Parade!
Bring your family and friends and celebrate the freedom to vote as we march together through Crestline on July 4th!
We're looking for volunteers to help with decorating, setting up our club booth and walking in the parade. Whether you can lend a hand behind the scenes or join us on the route, we'd love to have you be part of the fun.
Wear your Red, White, and Blue or Black Club shirts!
Meet at Holiday's house at 9:00 AM
Parade begins at 10:00 AM
Club parade announcement: Stars, stripes, and a ballot box, let’s do this! Joining us today is a local candidate running in the November election, Alex Vara, candidate for County Superintendent of Schools. Be sure to give them a wave as they pass by! Today we celebrate one of our greatest superpowers, the power to vote. It starts with learning the issues, showing up, and making our voices heard.
Voting is both a privilege and a responsibility, and it’s how we keep our democracy strong, vibrant, and truly representative. Coming down the parade route now is the Mountain Bears Democratic Club! Since 2004, they’ve been energizing our mountain communities with education, information, and advocacy. They’re your neighbors, working year-round to keep folks informed, engaged, and ready to participate in the democratic process. So as we celebrate our nation’s independence today, let’s also celebrate the power we each hold, the power of the vote!
Jamboree Days schedule Click HERE
Chamber volunteers needed Click HERE
Rise Up! Sing Out!
- Protest Success
- Over 70 in attendance, new member outreach
- Local Paper came and asked questions
- Facebook Success
- We hit 120,768 views in the last 28 days, 1734 followers
- Drunk Maga agitator FB Live went viral over 80 views!
- NBC asked to use our footage
- Other clubs reached out to join us. Indivisible Joshua Tree
If any of you were lucky enough to watch the movie “ Sliding Doors” you know the impact of making choices in our lives. Yesterday, I made the choice, along with a dozen or more club members to attend a WATCH PARTY at Holiday's lovely home. We all made the choice to sit and listen to a host of singers ,actors and activists who shared their stories about how vital it is to stand up and announce how our First Amendment is being challenged and our rights to assembly and free speech are under attack. Choice to cower to this administration or show that there is power in numbers and we should always be on the side of what’s fair and right for a society.
We stand on the backs of those that fought to keep our democracy intact and we are eternally grateful for the sacrifices and choices they made. So I stand in the knowledge and strength that we all experienced on that marvelous "Rise Up, Sing Out" event on Sunday. A WISE CHOICE!
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Jane Fonda resurrected The Committee for the First Amendment who hosted the event. It was a star-studded event with lots of speeches and songs by icons like Bette Midler, Patti Smith, Rufus Wainwright. Newcomers like Sasha Allen sang inspirational songs, choirs, with not so flattering lines about Trump.
My hero stole the show. Robert De Niro has become a strong outspoken thorn in Trump’s (_!_). He opened with, "And welcome to all of you who couldn't get tickets to the White House cage fight." Someone yelled out, “You go Bobby!” when he said, "I hate to say it, but loving our country is starting to sound like an abused spouse saying they love their abuser." He shocked us when he said, "When I hear Trump say, 'I don't think about Americans' financial situation, not even a little bit,' I say, 'Shut the f*** up.'" He then led us on a litany of Trump’s lines and we all responded loudly with “Shut the f*** up.” (I hope the neighbors weren’t listening.)
My favorite part was right at the crescendo of the last song to end the concert. The song built then we heard a loud beep and a popup that said “Battery Low”. After walking Lake Gergory, protesting with the Mountain Bears across from Goodwins and the concert, my battery was running low too.
Mountain Dem Bears Support PRIDE
by Terry Masl, Proud member of the Mountain Bears
I saw the Pride Party flier in a Mountain Bears text blast so Diana and I decided to attend. We made it to the Bear Claw and the place was pretty crowded. As with every LBGTQ event I’ve ever attended, there was a lot of laughter, love, fun and friendly smiling faces. The DJ had the place rockin’, (not really our music, but everyone else was enjoying it.) We found a place to sit outside, I got us a couple of drinks, talked to a few by the bar and we began people-watching.
I get a lot of enjoyment seeing people having a good time. We watched the youngins dance, flirt and feeling free to be themselves in a fun, safe environment. Holiday showed up and I didn’t recognize her in her costume. She was dressed as an elaborate gay witch. (I remember thinking to myself; she attends these things just to be able to come up with a new amazing costume.) JT and Alan were there and we talked about the party, water, some jokes and shared some constructive concerns about the party.
I believe it’s important that our club has a present at functions like this. It shows we stand with them politically, socially and want them to be able to feel comfortable being themselves. I support the gay community though I’m not sure I’m always correct in my titles. My Granddaughter recently announced her pronouns are he/they. Well, I guess I didn’t use the correct pronoun and my daughter, (her mother), asked if I was told about the new pronouns. My Granddaughter said yes, but that’s Grandpa, he doesn’t care about gender, he will always love me. (I can live with that.)
Just a note: A few years back I heard a young lady speaking to Nicole Wallace and the conversation was about Republicans claiming we are losing freedoms. I wish I knew her name to give credit as she said, “Democrats are the party who supports the freedom to be different”. I like it.
Mountain Bears were there!
History in the making and we were there! We got the call and we rushed right down to meet Xavier Becerra.Larry F., a fellow Mountain Bear, shared a bit of history about the Democratic Club’s presence at the local farmers market. Alongside Steve, Sabro, and Marquita who set up early at 8 am with club registration materials, flyers, and business cards to connect with the community.
Larry often brought his chihuahua, Mano, who quickly became a crowd favorite and drew people over to the booth. While many visitors to the market were tourists just passing through, the team still took every opportunity to share information about club meetings and engage folks in conversation.Not every interaction was easy. Larry recalled one market night when Steve encountered hecklers, a reminder that the event, run by the Chamber of Commerce, tends to reflect a more conservative crowd. Still, that’s exactly why their presence mattered. As Larry noted, many people don’t see much on the mountain beyond that perspective, so showing up, being visible, and offering a different voice was an important part of the work.Want to help keep this tradition going? We’re looking for volunteers to staff the booth, a friendly greeter and someone to help with setup/takedown on 6/27. It’s a great way to connect with the community and support our presence on the mountain.
CLICK ON PORTALS FOR DETAILS
PAST EVENTS
Glen Thompson Award
On May 19, the MBDC attended the 2026 Rim of the World High School Award Ceremony. We were honored to present Alejandro Barrios with the Glen Thompson Award of $500. Alejandro is an amazing young man who has worked hard for our community — and he actually had the opportunity to meet Glen personally.Thank you to Yolonda L. for taking ownership of this program and helping keep the legacy of Glen Thompson alive.
For the story and remembrance of Glen Thompson, Click HERE
I Saw a Mountain Bear Working the Poll
Nancy Manning, a fellow Mountain Bear and longtime poll worker, shared a glimpse into her experience working the polls this year in Twin Peaks. For Nancy, the day is always a hopeful reminder of democracy in action. She describes it as a truly participatory process, one that builds confidence in our elections, something she believes more people would feel if they had the chance to work the polls themselves.
Throughout the day, she didn’t hear a single disparaging comment or witness overly partisan behavior. Instead, the atmosphere was welcoming, positive, and even a little jolly. When a small miscommunication arose about voting at the Lake Arrowhead Country Club, poll workers quickly stepped in, even creating a sign on the spot to help direct voters to the correct location.
Nancy also emphasized how secure and well-managed the process is. Poll workers never touch ballots, and ballot boxes are carefully sealed and signed by two officials. It’s a system designed with integrity at every step.
Her favorite moments come when first-time voters arrive. The room fills with cheers and applause, often with proud parents capturing the milestone. It’s these moments, she says, that make the experience especially heartening, a powerful reminder of why civic participation matters.
Thank you, Lauren, for all of your hard work and dedication to the club. Your help taking on membership duties and working on the data has been a tremendous support to our team. You consistently show up with a smile and a willingness to jump in wherever needed. Your enthusiasm, reliability, and dedication are truly invaluable, and we are so grateful for everything you contribute. Thank you for being such an important part of the club!
For full Article on Sebastion de Warren Click HERE Written by member: Wendy McEntyre
For FACEBOOK Live
Rim High School Voter Registration
On Tuesday, May 12, club members Larry F., Yolanda L., Mark K., and Nancy M. spent the morning at Rim High School answering questions and distributing voter registration applications.
“We were stationed in the library. During lunch and nutrition break, students were able to meet with us. It was a rewarding experience.” — Corn
MAC Meeting Success
The Crestline Municipal Advisory Committee (MAC) meeting held on April 7, 2026, was a great success, with strong community engagement and meaningful discussion.
Members of the Mountain Bears showed up in force and made valuable contributions throughout the meeting. Carrie Folbear (Citizen of the year) highlighted the importance of County support and collaboration with the many nonprofits and dedicated volunteers serving our mountain communities. Sue Walker (MHC President) spoke about the impactful work of the Mountain Homeless Coalition and its vital programs supporting those in need. Holiday Heller (MBDC President) presented the MBDC survey results, along with recommendations for future speakers aligned with the community’s top concerns.
Randall Putz, current Mayor of Big Bear and candidate for California State Assembly District 34, offered insightful perspective on the challenges and opportunities we have to bring the attention and resources we need and deserve to our many rural communities across our vast assembly District.
Congressional District 23 candidates Karen Matthews (I) and Pat Wallis (D) also addressed attendees, sharing their commitment to understanding and advocating for the unique challenges faced by unincorporated “sky island” communities like ours.
Overall, the meeting reflected a strong spirit of collaboration and a shared commitment to improving quality of life on the mountain.
For more details- Click HERE
NO KINGS 3/28/2026
NO Kings Success
Crestline, California saw over 200 protesters take to the streets, raising “No Kings” signs and voicing their outrage at the current Republican leadership and Trump administration. Local groups, including the Resistance and the Mountain Bears Democratic Club, joined forces to bring the community together in a peaceful demonstration against what they describe as executive overreach.
Organizers estimate that more than 8 million people participated in over 3,300 “No Kings” protests across all 50 U.S. states on Saturday, March 28, 2026—potentially making it the largest single-day demonstration in U.S. history. The movement extended far beyond U.S. borders, with protests held in international cities such as Paris, London, Lisbon, Munich, and Rome—largely driven by American expats—as well as events in Canada and Mexico.
Looks like the people of the USA and the world have spoken! A clear wave of rejection to the far-right, authoritarian, and nationalistic political ideology characterized by a dictatorial leader, strict centralization of power, suppression of opposition, and aggressive nationalism.
For FACEBOOK video Click HERE
For FACEBOOK pictures Click HERE
International Women's Day
Click HERE for Facebook 2026 Rally Video
ICE - We are not immune
On March 31, 2026, our mountain community experienced
ICE
something very real—this was not a drill, and we are not immune. ICE agents came into Big Bear and detained one of our own, Armando Herrera Gonzales. This has deeply impacted his family and those who know him.
Right now, the Herrera Gonzales family is asking for help and support during this incredibly difficult time. They have shared a plea for assistance, and any support—whether through outreach, resources, or donations—can make a meaningful difference. Please, if you can, find it in your heart to reach out and support the family .
Our community has always come together in times of need—this is one of those moments.
Gofundme: Click HERE
Click for news report- ABC news 7
BIG BEAR LAKE, Calif. (KABC) -- Three sisters in Big Bear Lake are now facing the gut-wrenching possibility of losing both their mother and father in a matter of days.
Not only is their 43-year-old mother in hospice after battling stage 4 brain cancer, but their father was recently detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Armando Gonzalez, 49, is now facing deportation after living and working in the Big Bear community for more than 20 years.
"All I can say is he's innocent," said Adriana Gonzalez, 20. "He has no criminal record. He didn't do anything."
Adriana says her father works as a handyman and house cleaner, and was on his way to a job Tuesday morning when he was detained by ICE agents along Big Bear Boulevard.
Mountain Bears Danced all Night
The Mountain Bears danced the night away at the 4th Annual Mardi Gras on the Mountain on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at the historic San Moritz Lodge.
Guests enjoyed a festive Mardi Gras–themed soirée featuring unique tastings from SoCal craft breweries and wineries, live music that kept the energy high, authentic New Orleans fare, and an array of pop-up vendors — all under the roof of the gorgeous San Moritz Lodge. The celebration brought community members together for an unforgettable evening of flavor, music, and mountain magic.
February Featured Speaker: Randall Putz
Candidate For: California Assembly District 34
Topic: Bridging the Divide - Staying Safe and Sane in a Polarized World
February Featured Speaker: Randall Putz
Speaker Info: Randall Putz brings 17 years of proven experience in elected office and a lifetime commitment to service. He currently serves in his 3rd term as Mayor of Big Bear Lake, and is honored with statewide recognition for excellence in public service. As an area resident for 25 years, he has held leadership roles with a variety of local and regional agencies focused on public safety, education, transportation, conservation, and planning. Randy is a native Californian, father, small business owner, and community advocate who cares deeply about the future of our region. He stands for transparency, accountability, and fairness that honors labor and equity. In Sacramento he will continue to fight for the attention and resources we need and deserve, putting planet over profit, and people over billionaires.
Links: Candidate Website: https://putzforassembly.com/
All Social Media: putzforassembly
Crestline made the paper!
Rim of the World High School Students Protest
Locally- January 30th 2026, 100 of our local High School Rim of the World students joined in a nationwide protest against recent killings by immigration enforcement by walking out of school and protesting. Students across the country have reported stress and fear seeing families, friends and neighborhoods terrorized by ICE raids. Walking out was a "real life civics lesson" where their voices could be heard in a nonviolent way. We are so proud of our young people for exercising their constitutional rights!
Screenshot
January 25th,
In the wake of the horrific ICE shootings in Minnesota and the tragic murders of Alex Pretti and Renée Good, Crestline rose up. Over 70 residents gathered in the streets, holding anti-ICE signs and sharing voices of grief, anger, and resolve. Our mountain town has had enough—and we are no longer staying silent.
Both shootings occurred during an unprecedented surge of ICE and Border Patrol agents in Minneapolis as part of “Operation Metro Surge,” a large federal immigration-enforcement campaign. The deaths of Good and Pretti — ignited widespread anger because many locals and national observers see the force used as excessive, opaque, and unaccountable.
Looking back at 2025
The pursuit of happiness, love, friends, truth, integrity, learning from mistakes, pivot, embracing change, fighting for what is right, grace, listening, being bold.
Thank you all for joining us in this journey and sometimes nightmare called 2025. It has been a horrible year for our country but I can honestly say with all our new friends and fellow warriors it has also been an amazing year. Your passion and strength has been an inspiration.
To win the war we need to reinvent ourselves. We need to cut all the weights we have binded ourselves too. We need to sacrifice our personal agendas and actually listen to others' needs. Embrace democracy for all.
