CAPE CENTRAL TRIBUTE KICKS OFF VETERANS DAY ACTIVITIES

A tribute at Cape Girardeau Central High School tops the list of activities planned for Thursday in honor of Veterans Day.

This marks the fifth year the high school's Renaissance Club has sponsored its Veterans Day program. Librarian and sponsor Julia Jorgensen said veterans seem to enjoy the songs and speeches performed by students who have had limited exposure to military conflicts."It's student performed, and that's what we think makes our tribute special," Jorgensen said. "The students really seem to respect them and are always excited about it."The Central High School program will be preceded by a reception for veterans and their guests at 9 a.m. in the school library. At 9:30 a.m., Central Jukebox, a new event that features a collection of war era songs presented in a radio format, will begin in the high school auditorium.

The program begins at 9:45 a.m. in the auditorium and will feature bands, singers and speakers. Students will honor veterans, American Red Cross volunteers, Gold Star mothers, Purple Heart recipients, military chaplains and various auxiliary groups. "All veterans are invited to attend because this is for them," said Jorgensen. "We're hoping we have some chaplains so we can pay tribute to their efforts during our wars."VFW Post 3838 commander Jerry Jenkins said he plans to attend the Central High School tribute. "It is an outstanding program to pay a good tribute to veterans," he said. "It means a lot to me personally, that our young people are doing a lot and are interested in us veterans."VFW members will meet for breakfast at their hall prior to the program. Their avenue of flags will be on display at Cape County Park North throughout the day, Jorgensen said the program is scheduled to end before 11 a.m. so that veteran's may attend other area events or reflect on the meaning of the day. "That is traditionally the most sacred moment for veterans, and we would like to be finished so they can go to Capaha Park or another area of tribute."American Legion Post 63 will host a ceremony at 11 a.m. at Freedom Corner in Capaha Park. The event is open to the public.

Pam Klaus, recreation director at the Missouri Veteran's Home, said members will attend various activities throughout Veterans Day. Several organizations also will provide entertainment at the home to pay tribute to residents.

Often, schoolchildren send special letters of thanks to residents at this time of year, Klaus said."They're really blessed with the support of the American Legions around here and the VFWs and just the community," she said. "I think around here everyday is Veterans Day."

VETERANS DAYThe following events will take place Nov. 11 in celebration of Veteran's Day.

CAPE GIRARDEAU5:30 a.m. VFW Post 3838 assembles Avenue of Flags at Cape County Park North.

9 a.m. Renaissance Club sponsors a reception at Central High School for veterans

9:30 a.m. Central Jukebox begins in auditorium with sounds and text saluting Armed Forces Service Radio. Sponsored by the Renaissance Club.

9;45 a.m. Central High School Salute to Veterans begins in auditorium. Sponsored by the Renaissance Club.

11 a.m. Ceremony at Freedom Corner in Capaha Park. Led by American Legion Post 63.12 p.m. Salem Lutheran Church performs patriotic songs at Missouri Veteran's Home.

Other activitiesAmerican Legion Department of Missouri sponsor Dollar Bill Day at Missouri Veteran's Home.

American Legion Auxiliary 114 (Sikeston) sponsors bingo at Missouri Veteran's HomeJACKSONAmerican Legion Post 158 and VFW Post 10495 6-9 a.m. Breakfast for veterans at National Guard Armory.

5 p.m. Parade through downtown to Cox Memorial Building for speech by Wayne Maupin.

ZALMA6:30 P.M. Dinner program sponsored by FCCLA Club (formerly Future Homemakers of America).