WALKERTON, Ind. (WSBT) — The Walkerton community is turning a disappointment into a dazzling display of community and fireworks.
The town of Walkerton cancelled its annual firework display last month.
Now, the community is stepping up to ensure the 4th of July fireworks show will go on to celebrate America's 250th and Walkerton's 170th anniversaries.
When Walkerton's fireworks show was canceled, the community refused to let the celebration fizzle out. And now, it's moving forward with big plans for the 4th
WSBT
Town officials earlier this year said the event was canceled due to a lack of volunteers.
Many in the community were disappointed by the announcement. Until, another local resident and business stepped up to help organize a separate firework show.
“We're a pretty tight knit community around here and we enjoy our Fourth of July. And especially this year with our 250th anniversary and everyone has came together and we're going to make it happen anyhow," said Mike Laizure, Sergeant of Arms for American Legion Post 189.
The community raised nearly $12,000 in donations. The show will use the same professional pyrotechnics company as in previous years.
Everyone is invited to watch at the former Welco Truck Stop on Roosevelt Road.
“Well, I'm just excited for the community,” said Rick Coffman, Lives in Walkerton. “I'm excited that the people themselves came together and make it happen, even without the support, direct support of the town government themselves.”
The firework show will start just after dark. Cars can park at the high school, which is about 2 blocks away and a shuttle is expected to run back and forth.
“Oh, I think the community, to me, the support's always been there, and we expected the fourth of July and the fireworks because I've been there for almost 45 years and we've always had the fireworks. So, it just showed me that everyone did care. They did want to make it happen,” said Coffman.
Other events, including a parade, will take place at the high school. The number of entries in the parade already exceeds last year's.
The American Legion is planning additional festivities as well, hosting a car show, food, and games ahead of the firework display.
“I'm amazed at the support from the community that has came together and helped. We thought we would just join in and make it a good Fourth of July for the whole community of Walkerton,” said Laizure.
The community is also planning to sell t-shirts commemorating America's 250th and Walkerton's 170th.
The proceeds raised will be going towards next year's fireworks show.