Freedom Celebration to honor veterans, encourage patriotism in Lonsdale

While Lonsdale’s Fourth of July celebrations weren’t able to withstand the test of time, the small town quickly makes up for it with a different patriotic program each year.

Starting in 2015, Triumphant Life Church Pastor Ben Fenderson said he believes this year will be the eighth Freedom Celebration, which is an event to honor veterans and celebrate the reward of their sacrifice from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 13 in the lot next to Mackenthun’s Fine Foods.

“Each year, it has grown with attendance and activities offered,” said organizer Kari Miller.

This year, kiddos will have a bounce house to play in after the main program that kicks off the event at noon. That program will feature some keynote speakers, usually including Mayor Tim Rud, and a presentation from the Lonsdale American Legion Post 586 Color Guard.

“Pastor Ben has been doing this a number of years actually,” Rud said. “He does just an excellent job. I mean, there’s a nice presentation, there’s some singing, some prayers. …And then they take a few minutes to recognize the veterans and service people in the audience. So, yeah, it’s really nice event. I’ve gotta give Ben a big shout out for that.”

The IMCA (International Motor Contest Association) Old Timers will have vintage race cars on display at the event, and Jim Bendzick of Thunder Acres in New Prague is bringing his SHERP ATV, an amphibious vehicle that can handle all terrain including water. In other words, it floats and can drive across a lake.

There will be at least three food trucks: Somethin’ Tasty, Blee Happy Food Truck and The Rolling Cones ice-cream truck. Blee Happy Food Truck has some gluten-free options, noted Miller.

“I’ve also reached out to the Lonsdale Fire Department and Lonsdale Police Department to have a water truck and squad car make appearances as well,” Miller said. “The Lonsdale American Legion Auxiliary will be there with poppies as well.”

The event takes place in the lot next to Mackenthun’s because Triumphant Life Church is planning to use the parcel for a new church, which the congregation is raising funds to build. Miller said the old building will be donated to the Lonsdale Food Shelf after they move.