The annual Thunder In The Valley Fourth of July Celebration was held in the Buddy Rogers ballpark in Fredonia Wednesday evening and this year included some rain in the park.
The activities began with an addition of the tractor pull at 5:00 pm and then at 6:00 concessions were opened up and at 7:00 local talent presented a variety of music. The crowd filled the ballfield and surrounding areas as those attending enjoyed the time of visiting, playing, eating and anticipating the fireworks scheduled for 9:00 pm. Presley Lamm shared he was always amazed by the number of people who traveled to Fredonia for the event despite the heat and possible rain.
click to download audioLamm is grateful for the number of families and kids that attend each year.
click to download audioLamm noted that he has come to expect that heat and a chance of rain are just part of planning the event.
click to download audioBoyd Bates was in charge of the tractor pulls and felt they had a good turnout.
click to download audioBates explained they did raise some money for the Legion but the main goal was for the kids and everyone to have a good time.
click to download audioBates reminded everyone when they say tractor pull they are talking about riding lawnmowers. He is looking forward to August 10 which is the Fredonia Festival.
click to download audioCaldwell County Sheriff Don Weedman was in attendance and expressed he is thankful to Fredonia for providing this celebration of freedom each year.
click to download audioThe rain held off for most of the night but as Dana Dyer and Woodmen Life presented the flag display rain began and the flag had to be rolled up. The rain lasted several minutes with a few people leaving but most of the crowd remained and enjoyed the refreshment of the rain. After the rain, Presley Lamm presented Fredonia Mayor Jim Seibert with the Citizen of the Year award. The night ended with an outstanding fireworks display.
