November 11th is Remembrance Day. Here’s a look at what’s open and closed and what you can do to honour our fallen soldiers.
I remember vividly, when I was a child, the Remembrance Day assembly we would have at school. I remember how somber everyone's mood was in the morning, as we respected our Canadian soldiers. In high school, I organized the assembly and helped put together the music and a play that would be seen by the entire school. It was a way to do something to remember, to take the time to do our part and say thanks.
This November 11th will be a day that will be more moving and emotional than other years, and even more people will gather at the War Memorial downtown to pay respects, because of the recent events that happened in Ottawa, with the tragic deal of Cpl. Nathan Cirillo. In a time of sadness, poeple gather and come together in beautiful ways.
Many schools will be putting on their own special assembly, but if you're looking for something to do with the younger children, you could head downtown to take part in the Remembrance Day events and pay your respets. Just a warning, though: it can be loud, so protect those little ears!
Here's a quick glance at what's open and closed on Remembrance Day, and other important information:
City Hall and Federal government building are closed, though it is not a stat holiday.
Some retail stores will be closed in the morning, opening at 12:30 p.m.
OC Transpo will be operating on a normal schedule.
War veterans who wear their medals or uniforms can ride OC Transpo and Para Transpo for free during National Vererans' Week from November 5-11. (For more informaiton, call 613-560-1000 or see octranspo.com.)
Banks and libraries will be closed.
There will be local parades and ceremonies taking place in Bells Corners, Vanier, Manotick, Kanata, Westboro, Vars, Navan, Osgoode, RIchmond, Stittsville and Orleans, as well.
