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Veterans Honored with Memorial Day Ceremony

May 30, 2011

Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center will host a Memorial Day Ceremony on Monday, May 30, 2011. The Program will be led by Director Michael Hoke with a special speech and veteran recognition. Raegan Grantham from Lamar University will sing the National Anthem and “America the Beautiful”; Marie Moreau will give a presentation and prayer as well. The ceremony will conclude with a ringing of the Great Bell, one minute of silence in remembrance of those who gave their lives for their country and "TAPS" played by Rebecca Kent of Lamar University. Those wishing to attend the ceremony will be given free entry starting at 2:00 p.m. with the ceremony beginning at 2:45 p.m. To explore the gardens either before or after the event an admission ticket will need to be purchase. Visitors are encouraged to bring folding chairs for seating, and Shangri La will be open throughout Memorial Day from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. for visitors of all ages.

“Gardens have always been a special place of remembrance and Shangri La feels that we should remember those that gave their all for our county. Even though Shangri La is normally closed on Monday, we will be open Memorial Day for this important ceremony and to allow visitors to experience the gardens,” said Shangri La Director, Michael Hoke.