John C. Fremont Days kicked off Thursday night with opening ceremonies.
Board President Barry Reker, who also serves as John C. Fremont during the festival, addressed the crowd.
“We were lucky enough to win the Omaha Choice Award for the best annual event again this year,” he said. “It is because of our board members and donors. I can’t say enough about the board of directors. They have worked their keisters off to make sure we have a good festival this year.”
Reker introduced each of the board members as well as Susan Allen, who portrays Jessie Benton Fremont. Allen drew a parallel between John C. Fremont and the board.
“I just want to tell you the story of Mr. Fremont,” she said. “He was called the Pathfinder because he wanted to make the United States a great nation. … Well, I had the privilege of attending board meetings with all of these wonderful people. They really do a great job for the Fremont festival. They are kind of the pathfinders for the festival.”
Fremont Mayor Joey Spellerberg read a proclamation for the festival. He said the event has always been special to him and his family.
“It is an honor every year to be a part of this great tradition of John C. Fremont Days,” he said. “Growing up, for me and my family, this was always an event that we would come to. I would even play the drums in this Chautauqua Tent every summer with my dad growing up. We would be a duo. It is pretty amazing. Now I’m bringing my three kids and my wife to John C. Fremont Days so it is pretty full circle.”
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