Happy Fourth of July!

The Fourth of July screams summertime. The holiday presents the perfect opportunity to gather with family and friends, cruise around the lake, grill brats and hot dogs, and cap the night off with a bonfire or by watching a fireworks display.

As we approach the long weekend, Kraus-Anderson employees share some of their favorite Fourth of July memories and traditions.

BRENDEN NICKELS (Senior Office Assistant): For a very long time, the Nickels’ Fourth of July tradition was to take our wagon and lawn chairs and watch fireworks from Mill Ruins Park. We’d arrive early in the evening to enjoy the atmosphere before the show, as well as walk the Stone Arch Bridge. Bands often played and food trucks parked nearby. Some years, family and friends would join us at the riverfront. Now, we stay home and relax.

BEN PEDERSON (Project Manager): I like spending time with my family and friends on White Bear Lake. We spend a majority of the day on the water and then head home to grill brats and hamburgers. Depending on the year, we watch fireworks from either the shore or the boat. This is the first year with my son, so my wife and I bought him headphones. He’ll be able to enjoy the fireworks show with us.

KATHY JAMES (Senior Receptionist): In 2011, I spent the Fourth with my whole extended family. As usual, my Uncle Shurman bought fireworks from his favorite vendor. But, this time, he put his name in the drawing for the grand prize — a $500 package of fireworks titled, “The Godfather.” Uncle Shurman and my cousin, Beverly, were halfway home when they received a call. You guessed it; he won the big prize! The show and night were spectacular.

ANTHONY KRIENS (Assistant Estimator): When I was about 20, I chose to come home on leave from the war in Iraq. I could’ve gone anywhere in the world, but I specifically chose to come back to the U.S. for the Fourth of July weekend. I went to Elk River to watch fireworks, spent time with my friends, and enjoyed some fried food. Having a good memory to reflect on when it was time to head back to war was important. It was the perfect weekend.

MICHAELA SYLVESTER (Project Engineer Intern): My family and I take a trip up north to a cabin or go camping each year! I love spending quality time with my family over the long weekend.

AARON GROSHONG (Business Process Analyst, Realty): The Fourth of July is my favorite holiday! For me, it’s an opportunity to reflect on the freedoms I enjoy within our country and the appreciation I have for my community. I spend the day with my loved ones, eat BBQ, and cap the night off with grand fireworks. As a Lakeville resident, the Fourth is also the official kick-off of Pan-O-Prog, our city’s festival. This means it’s about time for my annual trek to “Beer, Brats, & Bingo,” “Cruise Night,” and the “Grand Parade.”

ADA SELBITSCHKA (Accounts Payable Coordinator): We celebrate my son’s birthday on the Fourth! He will be three this year! He doesn’t like cake, but he loves watermelon — a Fourth of July staple.

This weekend, take time to enjoy your loved ones, the (hopefully) great weather, delicious food, and appreciate the wonderful moments that too quickly turn to nostalgic memories.

Kraus-Anderson wishes you and your loved ones a happy and safe Fourth of July!