Montezuma’s “Let Freedom Ring” celebration has been described as a community block party, centered on the downtown area, just ahead of July 4.
And, it’s at hand! Saturday, July 1 is the date this year for an event highlighted by a big doo-dah parade, a traditional chicken barbecue, and fireworks at dusk over Lake Ponderosa.
Doug and Deb Ver Meer, owners of Vannoy Chevrolet, are the parade grand marshals this year.
They could be described as “community activists” with a definite “pro-Montezuma” stance.
Both are active in numerous community and church organizations and have been for years.
Doug for a long time has driven the grand marshal in the parade. Someone else will get those honors this year!
Activites begin with the 7 to 10 a.m. pancake breakfast at the fire station. Montezuma Shooting Sports is the provider for this fundraiser.
Staging for the big parade starts at 8:30 a.m. in the north parking lot at Montezuma Community Schools. Just go, get a spot, wait, and visit.
The parade starts at 10 a.m., from said north parking lot, south along 4th Street, before turning west on Main Street, and then south on 3rd Street.
Many activities on courthouse square will be under way before the parade starts. There will be craft vendors, a trailer by Simply Stella Rose Boutique, bouncy rides on the west side of the square on the courthouse lawn, and a dunk tank sponsored by the Montezuma Be Brave Dance Team.
Food will be abundant. The Montezuma Lions Club’s annual chicken barbecue will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Montezuma Memorial Hall. The announced goal is selling 880 half-chicken dinners – and they almost always do!
Two carryout service lines will be available as well as inside dining.
Also available on the street will be funnel cakes, hot dogs, chili dogs, cotton candy, kettle corn, watermelon (prepared by the American Legion), root beer floats, lemonade, shaved ice . . .and more!
After all that, the party starts to break up about 1:30 p.m.
But, its starts up at night at Lake Ponderosa, with the first fireworks to go off at dusk.
So be there, won’t you, and enjoy yourself, whether you like it or not!!. . . as we observe the 247th anniversary of The American Experiment.