[WardFive] CM Michael A. Brown on This Memorial Day

Friday 25 May 2012

[WardFive] CM Michael A. Brown on This Memorial Day

For immediate release:

May 25, 2012

For more information contact 202-724-8190

This Memorial Day

Washington, DC-

"As we prepare for the long holiday weekend, please be reminded of those fallen soldiers whose ultimate sacrifice continues to foster the independence and freedoms we embrace. Let us remember the true cost that forms our democracy and show humble reverence to the many that cannot be forgotten," said At-large Councilmember Michael A. Brown in advance of Memorial Day.

In addition, last week the Small and Local Business Development Committee approved the "Support for Service Disabled Veteran-Owned Businesses Act of 2011" and sent the bill, authored by Councilmember Michael A. Brown, to the full Council for consideration. If passed, the bill will amend the Small, Local, and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Development and Assistance Act of 2005 to include preference for service-disabled-veterans-owned businesses and a percentage reduction in price for veterans and service-disabled-owned-veterans in the program for certified business enterprises.

Also, I commend Mayor Vincent C. Gray and Matt Cary, Director of the D.C. Office of Veterans Affairs, for successfully spearheading and opening the DC VA Medical Center's new Community Resource and Referral Center. The 24 hour center, located at 1500 Franklin St. N.E., opened on May 9^th and serves as a one stop location that combines healthcare, housing, employment, education and benefit information assistance for veterans and their families. More information is available by visiting www.ova.dc.gov

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National Memorial Day Concert
National Symphony Orchestra
Jack Everly, conductor
West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol
Sunday, May 29, 8:00 p.m. (Gates open at 5 p.m.)

Hosted by Gary Sinise and Joe Mantegna

Each year, the National Memorial Day Concert presents a unique program honoring the valor and patriotism of Americans who have served our country in times of conflict. The show pays tribute to their sacrifices as well as those of their families and loved ones. The 2011 event will include a 10-year commemoration of September 11th, a thank you to our troops who have been serving in Iraq and Afghanistan , and a tribute to our World War II veterans on the 70th anniversary of Pearl Harbor .

Special guests and performers include Gen. Colin L. Powell, USA Ret., Forest Whitaker, Dianne Wiest, bluesman B.B. King, gospel singer Yolanda Adams, Kris Allen, Hayley Westenra, Daniel Rodriguez, Pia Toscano, Jason Ritter, and A.J. Cook. The Military District of Washington coordinates the DOD participation of the Premier Service Bands and Service Honor Guards.

Free event, no tickets required.
Free rehearsal on Saturday, May 28 at 8:00 p.m.
Note: No alcohol permitted.