28 NOVEMBER 2018 By Rachael Bouley Every year, Veterans Day brings communities together on November 11 in celebration of all those who served. This year, the holiday falls on a Sunday, so schools and federal offices will be closed on Monday, November 12 in observance. For Arcadia families who want to pay their respects to veterans and acknowledge their valiant efforts, there’s plenty to see and do in the local area. Many nearby schools and organizations are stepping up to host special events for veterans and their loved ones. 22nd Annual Phoenix Veterans Day Parade Monday, Nov. 12, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. One of Arizona’s most cherished Veterans Day events returns for family fun and much-appreciated recognition for military members. This year’s event is themed “Out of the Trenches: A Century of Remembrance” in honor of the end of World War I. Around 45,000 spectators usually turn out for this gorgeous display of red, white and blue pride, which will include 2,500 participants within marching units, floats, bands and more. There will also be eight Veteran Grand Marshals, representing each era of military service from World War II to today. If you’re planning for the parade, keep in mind the procession will head south on Central Avenue from Montebello Drive to Camelback Road before turning east on Camelback Road to 7 th St. Finally, the parade will turn south on 7 th St. before finishing at Indian School Road. 6th Annual Veterans Day Concert at Episcopal Church of the Nativity Sunday, Nov. 11, 2 p.m. 22405 N. Miller Road, Scottsdale Take a quick ride to north Scottsdale for this beautiful free concert that pays tribute to the heroic actions of our armed forces. Arts at Nativity puts on this musical masterpiece, appropriately titled “Commemoration and Honor,” which will feature Apollo High School’s Choir under the direction of Michael Frongillo. Veterans will participate by reading poems to go along with the instruments and voices. Donations will be graciously accepted. Veterans Day Commemoration at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park Friday, Nov. 9, 3 p.m. - 4 p.m. 7301 E. Indian Bend Road, Scottsdale The City of Scottsdale’s annual veterans event will get the festivities started early, setting the scene for a long weekend of recognition and remembrance. Capt. Larry Ernst, a retired member of the United States Navy, will serve as the keynote speaker. A Top Gun fighter pilot in the Vietnam War stationed aboard the USS Kitty Hawk, Ernst completed more than 100 combat missions in an effort to protect his country and innocent civilians. The commemoration will give Ernst the opportunity to publicly reflect on his military service while allowing the community to thank him and his comrades for their service. 19th Annual Veterans Day Gourd Dance at Pueblo Grande Museum Sunday, Nov. 11, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. 4619 E. Washington St., Phoenix The beautiful Pueblo Grande Museum will once again open its doors for this traditional tribute that honors the memory of all the inspirational men and women who served our country. The event’s main entertainment will be the Gourd dancing, performed by the Arizona Territory Gourd Society, a non-profit organization for American Indian U.S. war veterans. The ceremonial dancing will start at 11:30 a.m. There will also be a selection of Native American vendors on-site, offering authentic, handmade merchandise that reflects their culture and beliefs. This event is free and open to the public, and presents a great cultural educational opportunity for kids and parents alike. Veterans Day Breakfast at Christ Lutheran School Monday, Nov. 12, 7 a.m. 3901 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix Christ Lutheran School students work with staff to put on this amazing event that has become a highly-anticipated tradition for many local veterans. Students handle everything from sending out invitations to making decorations and actually serving the fresh and delicious food to attendees. It’s a wonderful opportunity for students to hear veterans’ remarkable stories and make a difference in the lives of those who worked so hard for our nation. All church, school and community veterans are invited to attend the breakfast, which will be followed by a special chapel service at 8:45 a.m. Hard copy invitations are available in the school office for those who wish to give one to a veteran and let them know about the event. RSVPs are kindly requested at mgotshall@cclphoenix.org by Nov. 9. Veterans Day Roundup: 5 celebratory events to honor veterans KACHINA Quality Dry Cleaning 602-955-5540 3926 E. Indian School Road Arcadia Family Owned & Operated Since 1959 Home & Office Pickup & Delivery Available 3641 N. 56th Street, Phoenix • 480-945-9537 • www.popphoenix.org Northeast corner of 56th St. and Indian School Discover POP Preschool Discover POP Preschool • Ages 2-5 • Well-qualified, loving and experienced Teachers • Christian curriculum and Chapel every Tuesday • Enrichment classes including Spanish, Taekwondo, Art & Music • A/C gymnasium that is used as our Summer Playground • Flexible scheduling options, with half and full-day programs • Excellent Pre-Kindergarten program using Creative Curriculum Give thanks with us any Sunday! 9:30 a.m. - Worship and Children’s Sunday School Arcadia Music Academy Summer and fall lessons for all ages. We teach piano, violin, guitar, viola, and cello! To register, call 480-945-9537 or email ama@popphoenix.org.