| From the City Manager… The City has postponed the July 4 fireworks, in response to the recent escalation of the COVID-19 threat in Southern California. The fireworks show will be rescheduled for later this summer or fall if / when the COVID-19 threat has subsided and it is again possible to present this great annual Big Bear tradition in a safe manner. The City is disappointed that it will not be possible to have the fireworks show on July 4, but believes it is in the best interest of our residents, businesses, and visitors to postpone the show. The City Council authorized the July 4fireworks show at a special meeting on June 16, at which time the COVID-19 threat was consistently decreasing and there was abundant hospital capacity in Southern California. Unfortunately, circumstances have changed quickly and significantly over the past 15 days, and current circumstances are not conducive to a safe, enjoyable show in Big Bear Lake. Additionally, Governor Newsom has encouraged all July 4fireworks shows in certain counties, including San Bernardino County, to cancel or postpone – and the City concurs with this directive. The City is currently working with Visit Big Bear and others to offer a virtual July 4fireworks show that will air on Channel 182 and the City’s website on Saturday night. Additional details will be provided in a future City COVID-19 update, and we encourage everyone to take time this Saturday to honor the founding of the United States of America. Despite our challenges, we are all incredibly blessed to live in the greatest country on Earth! The new fireworks date will not be set for several weeks, and the City will continue to monitor the COVID-19 threat in order to determine if / when the show can occur. The new date will be announced in a future City COVID-19 update. |