Lake of Egypt funds Fourth of July firework show by recycling

MARION, Ill. (HEARTLAND NEWS) – The Lake of Egypt has a unique way of funding its Fourth of July fireworks show: recycling.

Gabe Raney said he and his family love the fireworks show and are thankful for the display, thanks to recycling cans.

“It’s awesome to be in the water and watch fireworks that way,” Raney said.

The Lake of Egypt Association of Property Owners collects cans year-round to go towards the Marion Elks Fourth of July show at the lake.

Lake of Egypt Association of Property Owners Vice President Skip Steffen says the collection efforts started 10 years ago and have grown into 100 collection bins in the community.

“We have over 100 barrels that businesses and subdivisions volunteer to collect the cans. And then we have volunteers that pick them up, take them to a trailer, and then take them to a recycling center,” Steffen said.

Lake of Egypt Association of Property Owners President Vonda Row-Del said they are one of their major sponsors for the firework show, and she’s grateful for the tight-knit community’s support.

“Everybody is 100% invested. We really care about our community. The volunteers are outstanding. Everyone pitches in on the different committees we have,” Row-Del said.

The ongoing can collection also helps support events and charities in the area.