You Are Cordially Invited

Hello and welcome to a wintry Saturday here at the Wannaskan Almanac. Today is November 8th and we've got a dusting of snow on the ground.

You are cordially invited to attend next Tuesday's Veterans Day program at Warroad Public Schools. Arrive early to find a parking spot and a seat as the program will most likely start promptly at 9am so we can all get back to work and other responsibilities at 10am.

For those busy folks who just can't peel away no matter what, here's a YouTube link by Your Live Events (LVE) I found that lets you catch all the action in real time. Note, however, that the video link says the program starts at 10am. I have kids in the program and I'm pretty sure it starts at 9am. Be advised. Better early and start later than late and to miss it entirely.

My kids have been reporting back that this is a big-deal program. They've been rehearsing songs in choir, band, and music class. 

This past week, three of my church school students drew me pictures of male and female soldiers in military fatigues, and asked if I had anyone in my family who was a veteran. Why, yes, I do.

I grew up understanding that almost every man - not only in my family, but in my community - was a veteran. The first female veteran to land on my radar - a nurse who had served in Vietnam - when I was in high school.

"My dad's/mom's grandpa was in Vietnam," the kids told me.

Has it really been that long?

I notice the transition in language from "my dad" to "my grandfather" to "my dad's dad."

I enjoy and appreciate the kids' reverence and enthusiasm for next Tuesday's program.

Also, this past week, I had a chance to visit with Marty Howes, the Veterans Service Officer for Wannaskaland. I asked him how business was going. "I just keep showing up," he said. I've known Marty, I'm guessing, for almost as long as he's been in the job and/or for almost as long as I've lived in Wannaskaland. That is to say, for a long time. His answer reflects his character and his commitment.

If you're a veteran needing some services, or just want to chat with Marty, here's the Veterans Service website.

Happy (early) Veterans Day and make it a great Saturday.