This is the 50th year for Sundown Salute but the decision to move much of the event to the city of Milford and shoot off fireworks in the Milford Lake area has led a local group in Junction City to begin forming another celebration called Freedom Fest JC.
Michelle Stimatze, Sundown Salute Chair, noted via social media that the Sundown Salute Board has been working hard in making the 50th July 4th celebration a success for the Junction City / Geary County community. She said, "Yes, it was voted on by the Board to have the 50th at Milford Lake and take it back to the roots where it started. There are four families, Deppish, Summers, Berney and Lacy that started this event and we felt that they needed to be honored this year for what they started 50 years ago. " Stimatze added that the late Geary County Commissioner Ben Bennett had shared with Sundown Salute board four years ago the 50th annual needed to be held at the lake.
Stimatze said Dedication Point was the location but the logistics of that area would not be suitable. "There was another option to take it to the City of Milford. The City of Milford welcomed this event to take place because the logistics would work for the 50th celebration."
Stimatze noted that the Sundown Salute Board gave approval for keeping the parade and Veterans Ceremony in Junction City but the Freedom run, bands, carnival, food vendors and craft vendors will be in Milford. She added that they are taking public safety measures for the Junction City . Geary County community seriously.
The Sundown Salute Chair said their agenda is to bring the community together, celebrate the 50th year and ensure families have a fun and safe July 4th celebration. "We care about the citizens of Junction City / Geary County and want to bring the excitement to our community. Everyone has a right to their opinion and we can't stop that. " Stimatze stated that their plans are to make this 50th event one that will be remembered. "The Sundown Salute Board does not like how our community has become divided and we want what's best for Junction City citizens to come together and celebrate our freedom."