Mental Health Awareness Month may be ending next week, but the mental health challenges millions of Americans face will continue. We must remain vigilant and understand the struggles. We must continue to talk about the effects. We must act to end the stigma and improve access to mental health care. We must work together to make positive changes.
I had the pleasure of attending Love Life’s first annual Two Harbors Suicide Awareness Walk this past Saturday. A personal and professional thank you to Melissa Crandall (Lake CVSO), John Overly (Lake County Public Health Nurse), and Ryan Burkhart (VA Suicide Prevention) for joining me in supporting this great event. A big thanks to everyone at Love Life for hosting and igniting a larger, louder conversation. The community turnout was fantastic, and I look forward to next year being even larger.
| Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: call 988 (then press 1 if a Veteran) |
Memorial Day will be observed on May 27 this year. Considered a federal holiday, it is not a day of celebration. We observe Memorial Day to honor and commemorate our deceased service women and men.
Memorial Day observances include the laying of a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery, services, parades and events held around the country. Regardless of how you choose to spend your last Monday in May, please take a moment to reflect on the selfless sacrifices of those we have lost. On Memorial Day, at 1500 hours (3:00 p.m.) local time, a national moment of remembrance takes place, which is a simple and dignified way to pay your respects.
On Monday, May 27, the annual Two Harbors Community Memorial Day Program will be held at the TH High School auditorium. The TH City Band will begin playing at 9:30 AM with the formal program beginning at 10:00 AM. The program will move to Van Hoven Park – Edna G around 10:45 and conclude at Lakeview Cemetery, Veterans section, flagstaff approximately 11:45 – noon. Please be aware that the times are approximate and may fluctuate slightly.
After the program concludes, a free picnic-style luncheon will be offered at the American Legion Post 109, 614 1st Avenue, TH.
Brad Anderson and Melissa Crandall are the Lake County Veterans Service Officers and can be reached at 218.834.8326 or cvso@co.lake.mn.us
Karen Christianson is the Cook County Veterans Service Officer and can be reached at 218.387.3639, or karen.christianson@co.cook.mn.us
