By Gary Shelton
Wesco Insurance
What’s your greatest Independence Day memory?
Several years ago we traveled to St. Louis for the July 4th weekend. We felt a little like the Griswold’s when we arrived at the Arch and it was closed for several days due to maintenance issues.
However, there was plenty of food, beverage, and entertainment going on to quickly help us get past our frustration of knowing that there would be no trip to the top of the Arch. Later that evening as we were passing an outdoor stage I heard the emcee say “Ladies and Gentlemen please welcome to the stage, the legendary Ray Charles.”
This was manna from heaven to me. I worked my way forward until I was about 20 feet from ‘The Genius’ and then spent the next hour or so listening to him perform patriotic songs. At the conclusion of his performance, we then sat on the steps along the Mississippi River and watched a spectacular fireworks show done from a barge in the middle of the river.
I will never forget that Fourth of July, but since then I have made many wonderful July 4th memories right here in our hometown. Wesco is proud to be one of the numerous sponsors of Freedom Fest.
We even bought a big lighted “God Bless the USA” sign to display at this event each year, so please check it out when you go. Freedom Fest is held each July 3rd and 4th at Yukon’s Boot Hill. The City of Yukon, numerous volunteers, faithful sponsors, and thousands and thousands of attendees make this celebration of our freedom one of the best in the state.
The musical entertainment, car show, food and fireworks are all top notch. There are numerous other activities for the whole family to enjoy. But the goosebumps you get during the grand finale while God Bless the USA is blaring from the speakers is the grand prize.
It is very humbling when you stop for just a few moments to truly appreciate the freedom that we enjoy in America, because we all know that freedom isn’t free.
I encourage everyone to get a schedule of these events and make the effort to get out and enjoy this fantastic celebration called Freedom Fest 2019. You will not regret it.
Whatever your plans are for the upcoming holiday…….be thankful, drive safely, drink responsibly, enjoy your loved ones, and never ever attempt anything after yelling “Hey guys…..watch this!”
Wesco Insurance can be reached at 405-354-5201.
