Royal Canadian Legion Branch 95’s president Stan Lasenba learned it’s hard to plan public events in the pandemic era when rules seem to change almost every day. Three weeks ago when this busy Smiths Falls Legion was sending out notices about Remembrance Day services, the advice they reported receiving from the local health unit led the veteran group to arrange for attendees not vaccinated against COVID-19 to be segregated in a separate area from those who were fully vaccinated. In addition, those non-vaccinated members of the public were requested to wear masks where it was optional for fully vaccinated people. On November 4th, they changed those plans and now no segregation will occur but the legion is suggesting everyone wear a mask in concert with current public health unit recommendations.
Hometown News spoke with Lasenba who wished to remind everyone that things will start out at the memorial beside the armored vehicle display at the Senators Rink at 10 am before the proceedings move to the town cenotaph at the public library for the traditional laying of the wreaths and the 11 am service. He was happy to clear things up and is looking forward to seeing a somewhat more normal time for remembrance and reflection.
