V-I-P packages for the Ithaca Community Fireworks Show on Monday, July 3, are now available, according to Fran Benedict, chair of the volunteer committee that organizes the fireworks show. Benedict said invitations are being sent to previous fireworks supporters and to potential V-I-Ps, but anyone in the community is eligible to become a Very Important Patron of the fireworks.
“There will be some special attractions in the V-I-P area this year,” Benedict said. “These changes and additions should attract many more individuals, families, and businesses to support the fireworks as V-I-Ps.”
The V-I-P area, atop Ithaca College’s South Hill campus, provides an “up-close and personal” view of the fireworks show, a barbecue buffet beginning at 7:00 p.m., plus entertainment.
There will be two special performances on stage in the V-I-P area this year. Former members of “Sons of Pitches” have teamed up to form “The Fault Line,” providing a new vocal sound “filled with harmonies and dedicated to having you fall in love all over again.” The Ithaca premiere for “The Fault Line” will be July 3 at the fireworks V-I-P area. And returning for another year will be Aaron Kelly, the young country-and-western singing sensation.
In addition to “The Fault Line” and Aaron Kelly, there will be clowns, magicians, face painting, and games for children throughout the evening. Chris Allinger of Q-Country 103.7 (WQNY-FM) and Jim Lee of Lite Rock 97.3 (WYXL-FM) will be hosts at the V-I-P area.
Elsewhere on campus, tethered hot-air balloon rides will be available, thanks to RE/Max Associates Real Estate, beginning about 6:30 p.m., weather permitting. And, Car Pride of Ithaca will have a display of vintage automobiles, also starting at 6:30. These two attractions are free to the public.
“We’ve ordered up a longer, more action-packed fireworks display for 2006,” Benedict proclaimed. The fireworks show, produced by American Fireworks Company of Utica and Ithaca, begins at about 9:45 p.m.
The V-I-P package, which costs only $135 for a family of five, also includes a special pass for parking, an after-glow party, and a special exit route following the fireworks.
Benedict said more information about the V-I-P packages can be found at communityfireworks.com, the fireworks website.
“If you haven’t been in the V-I-P area before, you’re missing one of the great parties around,” Benedict said. “If you have been there, you know how much fun it is.”
Benedict suggests making the V-I-P area even more fun. “Get a carload or two of your friends and family together for a great time while keeping alive an Ithaca tradition. You might even consider making this a company picnic for your employees and their family members,” he said.
“This V-I-P package can also be an exciting way to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, and other milestones,” Benedict said. Groups of ten or more may reserve tables in the V-I-P area.
Information about the V-I-P packages may be obtained by contacting Fran Benedict at Tompkins Trust Company, 273-3210, or via the website: communityfireworks.com.
https://www.ithaca.edu/intercom/article.php/20060517144332874