The annual Fourth of July fireworks show over Big Bear Lake, which has been a don’t-miss summer event since the 1970s, will return on Saturday, July 4 and will be bigger than last year’s extravaganza. The Rotary Club of Big Bear Lake plans to spend about $2,000 more for the fireworks show this year, which is anticipated to cost about $46,500. The event draws over 100,000 spectators annually, bringing tremendous economic benefits to the Big Bear Valley, according to the City of Big Bear Lake. Given the Memorandum of Understanding between Rotary and the City, local businesses are solicited for tax-deductible sponsorship of the program and, should expenses go uncovered, the City of Big Bear Lake covers the shortfall. However, according to City Manager Jeff Mathieu, “It did not pay for itself last year, but Rotary closed that gap with their funds.” Per an updated MOU, approved by City Council this week, city staff will no longer be responsible for fund solicitation; this will now be overseen by the Big Bear Chamber of Commerce. Last year, when the Fourth fell on a Friday, the Municipal Water District estimated that 1,000 boats were on Big Bear Lake in the 3 o’clock hour; the previous record had been on Saturday, July 4, 1996, when 963 boats were on the lake at one time.