CARLYLE - Here we are in the season of autumn. The days are getting shorter and the nights cooler.
We hear the calling of the geese as they head south. Of course we are looking forward to Hallowe’en. Who among us doesn’t enjoy the evening when the kids come around in their costumes, and maybe parkas, to cry “Trick or Treat”! and collect candy? Who among us doesn’t enjoy eating the left over Hallowe’en treats once November starts?
There are also another couple of traditions at this time of year. One tradition, for our youth, is the creation of posters, poems and essays on remembrance, to be entered into the Royal Canadian Legion National Youth Remembrance contest. The contest is adjudicated by age group and each category – poster, poem and essay – is judged separately.
This is an opportunity for young people to think about the impact of what past and current service means to our country and to express themselves. The Carlyle branch of the Royal Canadian Legion wants to encourage our youth to participate in this contest. Information on this contest is available at the schools and from legion members.
A further tradition, or what will hopefully become an honoured tradition is the raising of the memorial banners for those who sacrificed so much in service of Canada, both in war time and during peace time. The members of the Royal Canadian Legion have been preparing for our time of remembrance for a number of weeks, and the raising of the banners is the first reminder to the community of the upcoming Remembrance Day on Nov. 11.
The legion’s annual poppy campaign starts on Oct. 27. The poppy campaign is to raise funds to aid veterans and veteran’s families. To kick off the poppy campaign on Oct. 27, the Carlyle branch will hold a Ceremonial oresentation of the first poppy to Mayor Jenn Sedor at the Moose Mountain Lodge at 10 a.m.
Poppies will also be given to other residents of the lodge after the ceremonial presentation of the first poppy. The public is also invited to this event.
After that date, poppy trays will make their appearance in stores and businesses around Carlyle. At that time, businesses will also be canvassed for donations. It is noted and gratefully acknowledged that Carlyle businesses have been generous contributors to this campaign.
Please give generously, donate to the poppy campaign, and wear a poppy to remember those whose sacrifices have given us so much.
“Lest we forget.”
