Dear Wonder Lake Community, 

A Personal Appeal to the Wonder Lake Community 

Last night, after our final Independence Day Committee meeting, we totaled the donations received for Sunday's fireworks. 

We are still $16,000 short. 

Though I know it has been a very hard year for Wonder Lake residents, I never imagined I would write those words. 

Tonight, I'm not writing as President of the MPOA. I'm writing as a neighbor who loves Wonder Lake and believes some traditions are simply worth preserving. 

For generations, our Independence Day fireworks have brought this community together. Families gather along the shoreline. Friends reconnect. Children look to the sky in amazement. For one unforgettable evening, we're reminded how fortunate we are to call Wonder Lake home. 

This year, there has been disagreement about holding the fireworks on Sunday. I understand those feelings. The decision was made to reduce costs and protect the long-term future of this tradition. While not everyone agrees, I hope we can now set that discussion aside and come together for something bigger than all of us. 

The Wonder Lake fireworks are funded entirely by donations. Not one tax dollar pays for this celebration. Every firework that lights the sky is there because someone chose to give. 

• If you've ever watched the colors reflect across the lake... 
• If you've ever heard the cheers after the grand finale... 
• If you've ever seen the excitement in a child's eyes... 
• Then you've experienced something worth protecting. 

A generous member of our community has stepped forward to match every dollar donated. That's an incredible gift, but it's also a challenge. This tradition shouldn't rest on one person's shoulders. It belongs to all of us. 

Please don't assume someone else will make up the difference. 

If every family that enjoys the fireworks gave even a modest donation, we could close this gap together. 

Donations may now be made electronically: 

• Venmo: @Wonder-LakeMPOA (see qr-code below)
• Zelle is Fireworks@wlmpoa.org 
• Donations may also be dropped off at the Cup of Wonder, 
• Either branch of the First Secure State Bank of Wonder Lake, Wonder Lake MPOA Office, or 
• Mailed to 7602 Hancock Drive, Wonder Lake, IL 60097, or 
• Coordinated by calling 815-653-1000 or emailing wlmpoa@wlmpoa.org, fireworks@wlmpoa.org, or president@wlmpoa.org. 

Every dollar will be matched. Every gift matters. 

Together, we can ensure that when darkness falls on Sunday, the skies above Wonder Lake will once again reflect the generosity, pride, and spirit of the people who call this community home. 

Thank you for your kindness, your patriotism, and your support. 

With heartfelt gratitude, 

Ray O'Brien 
President 
Master Property Owners Association for the Wonder Lake Area 
president@wlmpoa.org