The Shelter Island Chamber of Commerce posted a notice last month informing residents that they will no longer sponsor the annual summer fireworks show because expenses have grown too large.

The weekend-after July 4 fireworks show has been a tradition in the town for 57 years.

Residents upset by the apparent cancellation organized an online donation to help keep the event on the calendar.

Thanks to social media and donations from the community, Kelly Surerus, of Shelter Island, and her friends have now raised nearly $30,000 of the $40,000 needed to launch the fireworks show on July 11 at Crescent Beach.

Residents say the Chamber of Commerce still would not run the event if the donation goal is met, but would help them put on the show themselves.