Dear Customers,
With the end of May, several important events come into play. School has their last ½ day on the 29th of May with graduation for the Class of 2025 held the next evening, Friday the 30th. But earlier that same week our nation pauses to reflect upon, mourn, and honor the U.S. military personnel who have died while serving their country.
I used to hear it referred to as Decoration Day as a boy. Americans visit cemeteries to conduct memorial services, and to place flags and bouquets on the graves of our fallen heroes. It originated in 1866 in Waterloo, NY, as a way to honor all those killed in the Civil War which had claimed more lives than any conflict in U.S. history.
Now, cities and towns – from the largest to the smallest – hold special services, parades and speeches to pay tribute to the “some who gave all!” There probably isn’t a family in these United States who hasn’t lost or at least known someone who gave the ultimate sacrifice.
Here in Smethport, weather permitting (which it generally does), there will be a parade starting at 10am – forming up over in front of Lake View manor on West Willow Street. It will feature the Smethport Hubber Marching Band as well as several organizations, motorcyclists, fire trucks and an honor guard of retired veterans. As in years past, the highlight is the dropping of the wreath from the bridge on Nelson Street into the waters beneath the Hamlin Lake Dam, the 21-gun salute, and the mournful and reverential playing of taps during the ceremony.
In addition, at this writing, St. Elizabeth’s Church is planning on holding a Memorial Day mass in the cemetery if the weather permits. In case of rain, the service will be moved back inside the church on West Main Street.
However you may plan on spending the day, food will most likely be a part of it. Memorial Day is one of three well celebrated patriotic holidays of the “summer” months. Fourth of July and Labor Day being the other two. In all cases, people often gather to share a memory, a story and a picnic or cook-out of some type. Costa’s Supermarket will be available for your picnic needs fully staffed and fully stocked – until 9pm – seven days a week!