The Geary County Commission Monday indicated their agreement for a proposal to have the Convention and Visitor’s Bureau to serve as the organizer, or coordinator for the annual Sundown Salute celebration in Junction City. They were agreeable to it on a one year trial basis.
During discussion at the county commission meeting it was noted by CVB staff that the city commission was in agreement with the idea. But one more important step is still necessary in the process, before it could become final. According to CVB Director Michelle Stimatze the Sundown Salute Committee must still consider the proposal. They have not yet taken any action.
During a report to the county governing body, Stimatze noted planners would looking at a three to four day Sundown Salute celebration next year, and not six days as was the case in 2018. There could be a possible soft opening the first night, activities could start later in the evening, and they could possibly move to bigger bands performing at the celebration in order to bring in more attendance. A need for more activities in the park was also cited in order to maintain attendance.
On a separate topic Stimatze reported that the blues festival in the downtown area this year will be a smaller event and the CVB may have to play a bigger part next year when they hope to return to Jammin in JC. The Jammin in JC event had to be called off this year, but the CVB has stepped in to help sponsor and coordinate a festival in September this year in the Heritage Park area downtown.
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On the subject of conventions, Stimatze reported that there are more conventions in Junction City this year. That’s an area where the Convention and Visitor’s Bureau is involved.