Special events are planned for the 50th fireworks show July 3

For some people, turning 50 is a big deal. For the Ithaca Community Fireworks Show on July 3, it's cause for celebration, and it's a reason to donate.

Donations continue to be the mainstay of the fireworks show that kicks off the Independence Day weekend, according to Fran Benedict, chair of the volunteer committee that organizes the event.

"We need about $30,000 to pay for this year's program and sustain a fund for future fireworks shows," he said. "Every dollar counts, whether it's sent in now or donated in the barrels on South Hill at Ithaca College the night of the show."

With only a few weeks remaining, only $13,000 has been raised so far, Benedict said.

For the 50th fireworks show, a bigger and better aerial display is planned by American Fireworks Manufacturing Co. In addition to fireworks, events on the night of July 3 include a baseball game, a sock hop and more.

• At 5 p.m., the Cohocton Red Wings will play the Ithaca Lakers on Freeman Field; tickets are available at the game.

• At 6 p.m., Mike Harvey will present his "Super Gold" sock hop in Butterfield Stadium. Lite 97 FM is underwriting Mike Harvey's appearance, and admission to the sock hop is free, but donations are strongly encouraged to support future fireworks shows.

• At about 9:45 p.m., the fireworks -- including more and better aerial displays -- will begin.

For those who want more, including reserved parking and seating up close to the fireworks staging area, a limited number of VIP packages are available. VIP packages also include admission to the baseball game, a barbecue buffet, afterglow desserts, pre- and post-fireworks entertainment and door prizes. Entertainment includes country-western singer Alice Detrick, Singing Sal's Variety Show, clowns for the kids and more, hosted by Chris Allinger of WQNY (Q-Country).

For information about VIP packages, contact Benedict at the Tompkins County Trust Co., 273-3210.

Commemorative 50th anniversary fireworks shirts are available. The back includes the fireworks logo, while the front features the 1997 Mike Harvey sock hop design. Harvey will autograph the shirts at his sock hop. Shirts, at $20 each, are available at the Lite 97 broadcast center on Hanshaw Road.