Our Opinion: Unique event accentuates annual Salute to America

Credit the organizers of the Salute to America with adding a unique attraction to an annual event.

Jefferson City's Fourth of July celebration each year draws thousands visitors to the downtown to enjoy activities, amusements and performances, capped by a stellar fireworks. The multi-day event traces its origins to a fireworks display hosted by local Lions Club members at Vivion Field.

Salute to America is rivaled in popularity only by ongoing tours of the abandoned Missouri State Penitentiary.

A combination of the two has become this year's main event - an Outlaw Country Concert "Inside the Walls" featuring headliner Travis Tritt. The show, which begins at 5 p.m. Saturday, also features ShotGunBillys, Jason Bertrand Band and Hillbilly Vegas.

The concert at the MSP redevelopment site kicks off two days of activities and events Sunday and Monday.

As we have said in the past, an event of this magnitude doesn't just happen. It results from time, effort and money from a range of sponsors and volunteers.

A Salute to America section published with the Wednesday News Tribune included a list of sponsors, supporters and friends. Also listed are the members of the Salute to America's foundation board and festival committee chairs.

The cooperation and coordination among organizers reflects their combined vision to create a community celebration.

In that spirit, we encourage the 70,000 people expected to attend this year's event to respect the guidelines established for the convenience and safety of all participants. Regulations include closure of the Missouri River pedestrian/bicycle bridge and a prohibited zone for boaters on the river during the fireworks display.

Salute to America is time for festivities and fellowship. It is an opportunity to celebrate our nation's independence as we share the common bond that unites us as Americans.