Fundraising for the 2026 Star Spangled Spectacular is entering its final stretch, and organizers say they are close to meeting their $50,000 goal. Co‑chairs Josh Newhouse and Matt Brostad report that just over $48,000 has been raised so far through cash and in‑kind donations for this year’s celebration, themed “Built on Freedom, Bound by Community.”
Newhouse said the committee is “extremely grateful” for the support of more than 285 businesses and families, and noted that additional contributions are still being finalized. He said continued community support will help cover remaining vendor expenses following the July 4th festivities.
Residents wishing to contribute may mail checks to:
Josh Newhouse, Fundraising Co‑Chair
P.O. Box 457
Storm Lake, IA 50588
Donor Categories
Through June 23–30, 2026
Liberty Bell Ringers ($500–$999) — MidAmerican Energy Company; Central Bank; Rembrandt Foods; Storm Lake United; Mark and Ellen Smith; John and Lindsay Armstrong; Buena Vista Regional Medical Center; Larson Oil & Distributing Company; Redenbaugh and Mohr Law Office; Hunzelman, Putzier & Company.
Patriots ($350–$499) — State Farm; Tyson Foods.
250 Club ($250 commemorative level) — Matt and Katie Brostad; Robert Knapton and Jason Knapton; Josh and Laura Newhouse; Fratzke & Jensen Funeral Homes; Grand Central Coffee Station; Jim and Dorothy Lane.
Skyrockets ($200–$349) — Vision Care Associates; Sugar Bowl Gift Shop; Dr. Kyle and Ashlee Glienke; Becky Stille.
Firecrackers ($100–$199) — Al and Michelle Patten; Andy and Tara Kosky; Ben and Ralna McVinua; Buena Vista Abstract & Title Company; Carriage House Glass; Dan and Molly Richardson; Dave Anderson and Deb Starr; Efficient Construction; Gigi Tompkins; Jay and Sharon Butterfield; Jeff and Laura Hanks; Jeff and Jordan Jorgensen; Lee and Laurie Meylor; Marcus Lumber; Marlene Massop; McNaughton Wealth Management; Nat and Margo Kitzrow; Paul and Stef Merten; Paxton’s Jewelry; RANCO Fertiservice; Sliefert Funeral Home; Smokin Hereford BBQ; Storm Lake Honda; Ted Brown.
Sparklers (up to $99) — Ali and Austin Langel; Bomgaars; Dave and Audrey Peterson; Donny and Jan Nolte; Matt and Elissa Doebel; Matt and Linda Ricklefs; North Lake Truck Repair; Pat Richard; Rich and Cheryl Lange; Roger and Myrna Lorenzen.
