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Highlands Today

Juneteenth festival

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Robert Saffold

Published: June 25, 2009

The Florida Sportsman Association-New Washington Concern Citizens Inc. members and supporters deemed that the 10th Annual Juneteenth Multi-Cultural Freedom Festival was the best yet; good weather, good participation among churches, vendors, organizations and groups.

We would like to thank the Highlands County Children's Health and Dental Department, Habitat for Humanity, Highlands County Sheriff's Office, city of Sebring Police Department, Central Florida Health and NAACP, just to name a few. The youth that attended had a fantastic time on the bounce houses, playing games, deer shot, soccer kick, football, and basketball throw. Also they enjoyed spending $3 for 15 tickets which they used to purchase sodas, hot dogs, snow cones, popcorn, water and juices.

The entertainment was provided by the Orlando Power Stares, a group of youth playing music on steel drums. Their three hours of performance was enjoyed by the hundreds of visitors who attended this year's festival.

This festival is observed throughout America. For those who would like to receive additional information may go online and keyword "Juneteenth. (This is a brief lesson of our history.) Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. On June 19, 1865, the nation celebrated its first Juneteenth Independence Day. For more than 135 years Juneteenth Independence Day celebrations have been held to honor not only the freedoms of African-Americans but also to encourage racial harmony among all.

Thanks to all the supporting sponsors.

Robert Saffold
Sebring

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