The Olson Event Center in downtown Le Mars was bustling with “big rig vibes” on Saturday, September 28, as NIPCO hosted its first-ever Touch-A-Truck event. The event, which coincided with the final Le Mars Farmers Market of the season, drew families from across the area to get an up-close look at a variety of impressive vehicles.
From 9 a.m. to noon, ten large trucks were on display, allowing children and adults to explore these machines often seen from afar or only read about in books. The Le Mars first responders presented an ambulance and fire truck, the Plymouth County Sherriff brought their SWAT van, North West Rural Electric Cooperative (REC) showcased a basket truck, and NIPCO rolled in its Digger derrick truck. Other vehicles included a large equipment tow truck, a garbage truck, a school bus, a semi-cab, and a tractor.
“It was fun to see the kids’ eyes light up as they climbed into the driver’s seat of these big rigs,” said NIPCO’s Lauren Hannasch, who coordinated the event details. “NIPCO was excited to have such a positive response from organizations in our community to provide a unique, hands-on learning experience for kids.”
Representatives from the various contributing organizations were on hand to discuss their vehicles’ roles in day-to-day operations. They shared insights about the jobs that utilize these trucks and how they contribute to essential services in the community.
Mike Berkenpas, lead lineman for the North West REC Le Mars crew, explained the importance of their basket truck in maintaining power lines. “We use this truck to reach high places safely. It’s helpful to our crews for keeping the lights on in homes and businesses across our service area,” he said.
Great weather for the event and the lure of big trucks drew hundreds of kids throughout the morning. Families moved from truck to truck, with children eagerly climbing aboard and pretending to drive the massive vehicles.
“What child doesn’t love to climb, explore, learn, and touch?” Julie Theisen, a grandparent of two young big truck fans, was happy the event allowed kids to interact with the vehicles and the people who operate them. “Offering children and their families a fun-filled opportunity to see all these trucks in one location and to meet the people who serve and protect our community is a memory that will stay with them for a long time.”
The Touch-A-Truck event provided entertainment and an educational opportunity during the final farmers market event, bringing together local businesses, essential services, and families in the cooperative principle of “Commitment to Community.”
NIPCO thanks the following organizations who contributed to this year’s event: AgriVision, Le Mars Community School District, Le Mars Fire Rescue, North West REC, Plymouth County Sherriff, Schuster’s Trucking, Specialized Concrete, Stockton Towing, and Van’s Sanitation. The success of this year’s event has already sparked discussions about expanding the lineup for next year and looking for ways to improve the event for both participants and the community.
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