Annual community fireworks show set for July 3; donations are needed

Plans have been completed for this year's Ithaca community fireworks show, which will be shot from the Ithaca College campus on Monday night, July 3.

Fran Benedict, chairman of the volunteer committee that organizes the show, said, "Mark your calendars now for a bigger and better fireworks display." Technical aspects of the 53rd annual fireworks show will be directed by American Fireworks Co. of Ithaca and Utica, with the fireworks beginning about 9:45 p.m.

According to Benedict, last year's contributions "failed to cover expenses, leaving the future of free fireworks shows in doubt." However, he said, a special campaign last fall indicated there is still support for a community fireworks show.

"Thanks to contributions from individuals and businesses in the community, we have enough money to develop our plans for this year," he explained. Cash contributions have supported the annual fireworks shows since 1947.

This year's pre-fireworks extravaganza will include a free sock-hop with disc jockey Tom Joseph from WTKO Oldies (1470 AM) and the popular band "Back Talk."

For those who are interested, Benedict said, a VIP viewing area will be available again this year, with several improvements and surprises. Fireworks patrons in the VIP area get an "up-close and personal" view, plus a spectacular barbecue and entertainment in a special area atop Ithaca College's South Hill campus.

The VIP area will include musical entertainment featuring the popular singer Alice Detrick, plus clowns, jugglers, magicians, face painting and games for children throughout the evening. Chris Allinger of Q-Country (WQNY, 103.7 FM) will be host at the VIP party, and Benedict said Allinger "has a few surprises up his sleeves."

Further information about the VIP packages can be obtained by contacting Benedict at 273-3210 prior to May 31.

Benedict has emphasized that, despite rising costs of producing the show, contributions continue to be the mainstay of the annual kick off to the local observance of the Independence Day holiday. "It's not too early to make a donation to this year's show," he said.

Donations for the 2000 fireworks show can be made in advance by sending checks to the Community Fireworks Committee in care of Tompkins County Trust Co., Ithaca Commons, Ithaca, N.Y. 14850. The night of the show, volunteers will collect donations at entrances to the Ithaca College campus, at the sock hop and elsewhere on campus.

The rain date for this year's community fireworks show is July 5.