WIOTA — Meatplow takes the stage at Wiota’s July 4th Celebration at 8 p.m. on Saturday July 6. 

Growing up in the 1990s, the four-man band claims to have been inspired by the great music that came from that time. Band members Scott Layde, lead vocals and guitar; Manny Bennett, bass and vocals; Cory Clough, lead guitar; and Justin Ahlstrom on drums, are all looking forward to entertaining the large crowd expected at this year’s event. 

As the Wiota Fire Department celebrates 75 years of volunteer service to the community, the largest crowd in recent history is expected to fill the Wiota Park for the 2024 event that takes place starting Thursday, July 4 and entertaining through Sunday, July 7. In its 54th year, the Wiota Fire Department proudly supports the local bands that will embellish the stage this upcoming weekend.

Meatplow lead, Layde is originally from Cuba Cityand now travels from nearby Potosi. Bennett, who grew up in Benton, travels from Shullsburg. Clough is also from Benton and now resides in Galena, Illinois. Ahlstrom lives in Shullsburg, where he also grew up. 

“Being a Shullsburg native, I’ve always attended their shows,” Meatplow’s drummer Ahlstrom said. “But this year I have the opportunity to celebrate in Wiota as well. I’ve heard a lot of good things, so I’m really looking forward to it.”

Meatplow may have been influenced by the 1990s, however audiences can expect a wonderful mix from just about every genre.

“I think what sets us apart from other bands is our set list,” Ahlstrom said. “As far as our shows, we do a lot of 90s rock, as well as throw in some classic rock. We all love the good classics, so we try to mix it up and throw some older ones in. We try to do songs that you don’t expect from a cover band.”

Ahlstrom said there is a possibility of playing crowd favorites such as Johnny Cash or taking a request or two. As every performance is a difference experience, he said the Wiota audience should expect an energetic blend of favorites that the entire audience is sure to recognize.

As merchandise may be limited for Meatplow at this time, those that are interested can purchase koozies and t-shirts while supplies last. Meet and greets may be possible before or after the show. 

The band is likely to be in the audience to listen to Sunshine Band when they take center stage from 2-6 p.m.

“We’ve opened for a few nationally touring acts, and played with a lot of great local musicians over the years,” Ahlstrom said. “Each one of the musicians have inspired us to put on the best show possible. We are expecting to have a good time, as we will give ‘our all’ to the audience this year in Wiota.”

The celebrations on Saturday start with a pancake breakfast that will tempt the taste buds and bring some of the best local conversations around. The ball games continue from Thursday and Friday, as 9 a.m. starts the next round on Saturday. Volleyball at 8 a.m. will bring lots of excitement for spectators. The bounce houses and dunk tank will entertain families of all ages throughout the day.

The Wiota John Deere Collector’s Club will be sponsoring and preparing the Kids’ Pedal Tractor Pull at 11 a.m. Be sure to get signed up for that event just ahead of start time. Calendars may still be available through any member of the Wiota John Deere Collector’s Club, which is a fundraiser that gives back to the Wiota area.