‼️‼️UPDATE 7/5‼️‼️ The petition is now closed: 40,680 signatures in just 9 days — that in itself is a victory.

Although we may not have reached the outcome we hoped for, it’s okay—real change takes time, and it rarely happens overnight. What we have achieved matters: awareness has grown, conversations have started, and not ​only locally—they’re happening at national and even global levels.​ The hope is to get the right people talking and to urge decision-makers to think carefully and to consider the true responsibility of leadership — being a catalyst for lasting, thoughtful change.

This isn’t just about one family of bald eagles in Big Bear. Fireworks are traumatic for many animals, not to mention the broader environmental impact that our choices have on the environment. As stewards of this planet, we have a responsibility to care for all life, human and animal alike. Conservation isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a shared duty to think more critically about the footprint we leave behind—on land, in the sky, in the sea, or in a lake.

Change doesn’t always have to come in the form of sweeping legislation or grand gestures. On a local level, it can start with small, intentional actions: moving away from fireworks, keeping our lakes clean,​ educating future generations to be mindful of their impact, and encouraging thoughtful choices.

The youth are watching—they’re looking to us. Now is the time to lead with more than just words. Let’s match our values​ and our words with our actions, and let's care for the Earth in a way that truly makes a meaningful difference.
------------------------------
‼️UPDATE 7/3‼️Sandy Steers shares a message to followers, "It's time to be kind!" on the Friends of Big Bear Valley social media pages (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and hopefully soon on their TikTok page), and she shared the same post in their private Facebook group.

A quote from Sandy's message is below:

"No matter what else is happening, people MUST be kind to each other. Change is made over time from people taking the time to speak softly, listen and understand each other; never does it come from aggressive or violent behavior." - Sandy
------------------------------
‼️UPDATE 6/30‼️: Sandy Steers has posted and made a statement on the Friends of Big Bear Valley social media pages (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and hopefully soon on their TikTok page) and she shared the same post in their private Facebook group.

YouTube video Courtesy of Cali Condor (Admin of the FOBBV Official FB Group)
------------------------------

• The dangers of fireworks have been well-documented across the country. FOBBV has compiled some of this data in a 🎆 firework presentation 🎆 showing the devastating impact fireworks can have on local communities and wildlife 🎆 ➡️ view on their website here.

Supporters who sign this petition are asked: "Would you chip in?" There is no option to disable this. IMPORTANT NOTE: This money does not go to Friends of Big Bear Valley (FOBBV), money donated on change.org GOES DIRECTLY TO CHANGE.ORG

Want to support our local Big Bear Bald Eagle Family (Shadow, Jackie, Sunny and Gizmo)? There are 3 EASY WAYS to provide financial support towards all of FOBBV's educational projects, including the LIVE bald eagle nest cameras:
🔗Donate https://www.friendsofbigbearvalley.org/donate
🔗Shop https://friendsofbigbearvalley.org/shop
🔗Join https://www.friendsofbigbearvalley.org/shop/memberships

The Big Bear Lake area is known for its majestic beauty for all human visitors and even more so for our local wildlife, particularly the eagle sisters, Gizmo and Sunny, who have made our community their home. These magnificent birds symbolize freedom, grace, and the wild spirit of our beloved area. Their presence in our hometown not only adds to the uniqueness of Big Bear Lake but also enriches the ecosystem.

Fireworks, however, pose a significant threat to these eagles. Known for their majestic daytime flight, eagles do not naturally fly after dark unless they are threatened or disturbed. The loud and frightening explosions of fireworks can spook them, causing them to flee their nests, potentially into situations fraught with danger. This not only jeopardizes their immediate safety but could also lead to them leaving the area permanently, which would be a tragic loss for our community.

This isn't just a plea about preserving natural beauty—it's about ensuring the safety and well-being of our local wildlife. Without restrictions, fireworks could lead to unintended consequences, such as these eagles leaving their habitat when they are not prepared to do so, increasing risks to their lives. Eagles are a protected species, and it's our duty to safeguard them.

I urge you to consider the long-term impact of fireworks on the wildlife in Big Bear Lake. By choosing to delay or ban the annual 4th of July fireworks show. Take a crucial step in protecting Gizmo, Sunny, and the entire Eagle family. Let's ensure that these beautiful creatures can continue to thrive in their natural environment, free from undue stress and danger.

Please support this petition to show your support of No Fireworks in Big Bear Lake while the Sisters are still in the area and in the nest, ensuring the safety and preservation of our world-famous feathered community members. Sign the petition to protect and show support for Gizmo and Sunny.