ST. George — A St. George man is hoping a natural connection between veterans will grow in the community during a celebration in Ancestor Square on November 10th and 11th.
The event, which coincides with Veterans Day, will feature live music and business discounts to raise money for the nonprofit Southern Utah Veterans Association.
“It’s so important to come to Ancestor Square to honor our ancestors who protected us,” Michael Brandt, a U.S. Air Force veteran, told St. George News. “Every company on Ancestor Square participates in unique transactions.”
Brandt, a real estate agent and grant writer who served eight years in the Air Force, said service members simply connect when they meet. He hopes this bond extends beyond the veterans themselves and sparks a movement downtown.
“I wanted to revitalize and energize, and Veterans Day is the perfect opportunity to do both,” said Brandt, who lives downtown and wants to revitalize the area. Told.
David Cordero, housing director for the Southern Utah Veterans Association, told St. George News that proceeds from the event will help the organization establish a Veterans Chamber of Commerce. The nonprofit organization is a member of the St. George Regional Chamber, but it is also developing a separate chamber, scheduled to launch in January 2024.
“We aim to cultivate veteran and first responder startups who will lead our city in innovation, jobs, and excitement for years to come,” Cordero said.
“The Southern Utah Veterans Association helps veterans and others recover from post-traumatic stress and other issues that affect their ability to live productive lives,” the group’s website states. Established for the purpose.”
The Veterans Day event will include a St. George photo booth and a flag ceremony at noon. Brandt said businesses are still signing up to offer discounts for those who have served in the military. To date, 25 companies have participated. Veterans also receive free breakfast and lunch.
Brandt added that Veterans Day is also known as Memorial Day.
“It’s a great day for everyone alive, but there’s a reason why this day is called Remembrance Day. It’s to remember our ancestors, and that’s why this Veterans Day we’ll be at Ancestor Square. It’s important to go,” Brandt said. “It’s important to us that we support each other and our community.”
Mr Brandt said he was grateful to the businesses that took part in supporting the celebration. Rise and Wonder will celebrate its anniversary with live music and games. Brandt added that owner Monica Brackenwith has worked hard to prepare the celebration and is very supportive of the veterans.
Brandt explained that Veterans Day is like Christmas for many who have served in the military.
“Many of us don’t have families, and offering a deal like this on this special day not only makes you feel good, but you can win a customer for life. So it’s a great idea for anyone It’s very profitable,” Brandt said.
The two-day event will feature business discounts, as well as lanyards for veterans. He said it’s important for veterans to know who is supporting them. The Rise and Wonder Shop also hosts daily live music parties with giveaways.
“We want to support the businesses that support us,” Brandt said.
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