It doesn’t seem possible that wars and rumors of wars are so much a part of our daily lives, especially since World War II was supposed to be an end to so many conflicts. Yet, men and women still must give their time and lives to keep us free — something we probably don’t think about very often.
That’s what makes Veterans Day so important. When I was growing up, it was called Armistice Day to celebrate the freedoms we have, thanks to those who served in the military. But it seems a very long time ago that we could celebrate when so many conflicts throughout the world continue to take place. Thus, Nov. 11 now honors veterans — veterans who are not always recognized as needing our help when they come back from experiences we can only imagine.
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To honor all veterans, and remind us all that freedom isn’t free, Star Plaza Theater in Merrillville is hosting “An Evening Honoring Veterans” with “A Lifetime of Showbiz: The Tribute to W.F. ‘Bill’ Wellman,” featuring the veteran and well-known author and entrepreneur as he recalls what it is like to face combat, watch buddies die and try to rebuild a life when you are back home, and some heartwarming stories as well.
Also included in this special evening will be Jim Cornelison from the Chicago Blackhawks, the American Legion Post 94 Color Guard, the Valparaiso High School Band and other live acts.
This night of entertainment and remembering, from 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, will benefit the Northwest Indiana Veterans Action Council and the Habitat for Humanity of Northwest Indiana with all money raised to be used for a future Veterans Build home. Star Plaza donated the use of its facility while others donated their time and talents.
Tickets for this wonderful program are $20 and $15, and can be purchased at the Indiana Welcome Center in Hammond and the American Legion Post 94 at the corner of Washington Street and Indiana Avenue in Valparaiso. More information is available at the South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority at 219-989-7770 or www.southshorecva.com.
It would be a true honor to all those who have served our nation if the theater is packed.
Congratulations to all the men and women who were elected by your communities, and even to those who didn’t get the votes needed, for caring about what happens in your area. We have a great county because of all of you. Thank you for your time and efforts to make your hometown the best it can be. We are all winners when everyone who takes pride in giving of themselves shares it with all of us.
As usual, in nonpresidential election years, the turnout was low, so if things don’t go your way, and you didn’t take the time to vote, just look in the mirror and see who is to blame. No one could use weather as an excuse this time.
Have you enjoyed this first week of November as much as I have with our beautiful weather? My smile feels wider, and I haven’t felt the least bit grumpy. Rain didn’t seem to bother the trick-or-treaters, and since then, the weather has been so lovely.
I want to be sure and remember these days when I’m grousing at Mother Nature in January. Even the fall colors have looked bright and cheery while the leaves are piling up. Keep that smile on and I hope you have a great day because you deserve it. Thanks for reading. Fly your flag.
Lorrie Woycik is a freelance columnist for the Post-Tribune.