ROME, N.Y. (WKTV) - A Rome businessman is lighting up the sky with his generosity.

For the first time since Mayor Jim Brown can remember, the city was going to have to forego the annual fireworks display that usually accompanies its tree lighting ceremony in early December.

Joseph Fazio, of Fazio's Auto Sales on East Dominick Street heard the news and couldn't allow it. He's donating the $2,500 needed to ensure that the fireworks display remains part of a popular holiday tradition.

"We've had a phenomenal year in business, so I figured just giving back, give back to the community. Lot of great people in Rome," says Fazio.

This year's tree lighting takes place December 3. The festivities begin at 6 p.m., but the actual tree lighting is at 7 p.m.

The city gave Fazio a medallion and certificate, thanking him for his generosity. Mayor Brown says there'd have been no fireworks without him.