CONESUS — Following the tradition of the past 18 years, Charles Smith of Smith Lumber is collecting private donations for the annual July 3rd fireworks show on the Northern Shores of Conesus Lake.
In addition to offsetting the cost of pyrotechnics, ten percent of these donations will go to Warrior Salute, a charity for American veterans from Webster. According to Charles Smith, the July 3rd firework show is actually a much longer standing tradition than many people think.
“There used to be three big floats out on the lake where they had fireworks shows every year,” said Smith, “but they stopped putting on shows. So, we decided to pool community money together and do one big show.”
Warrior Salute offers mental and physical assistance to veterans who returning home from deployment.
In addition to a portion of community donations, Warrior Salute will receive all proceeds from the annual souvenir button sale. Alexa Pietrowski, pictured above, will be selling souvenir buttons for a dollar each, with all proceeds going directly to Warrior Salute. Pietrowski’s father, Dave, coordinates the charity fundraiser.
The buttons feature a commemorative design and date for 2014. They can be purchased at Smith Lumber and at the Quicklee’s gas station, 5763 Big Tree Road in Conesus, formerly known as the Finger Lakes Express.
Smith added that the fireworks promise to be spectacular. “It’s a huge show,” said Smith, “about 1500 people show up every year.”
The show is set to begin at 10:15pm, barring poor weather.
Donations can be made online at www.conesusfest.com, or in person at Smith Lumber.