We could all use a good dose of togetherness and pride. We have done remarkably better than a lot as we've worked our way through the pressures of the last couple of years. It's been a struggle for most to say the least. Muskegon has shown by example that we're not unfamiliar with tough times and were some communities have found ways to fall a part, we have found ways to pull together like no other. There's no getting around the idea that we've not always agreed on everything, however, if a need was there, it's pretty much been met and that is how we do things. Some things we are used to have had to be put on hold, and that's a sad thing, but as they begin to come back, it's time to point out just what kind of remarkable things go on in our neck of the woods. In this case, Norton Shores, home of the Mona Shores Sailors and this Friday's game, the "Sailor Salute".
This will be the 5th year of the event where the school focuses on the work that goes into keeping us all safe. From the police, fire and area first responders to the active, reserve and veterans of the military, all who serve and protect are invited and honored on this special night at Sailor Stadium. They go all in on the things that give you that overwhelming feeling of patriotic inclusion and they also spend some time remembering and reflecting on just what it is that makes living here in the USA so incredible. In the school, the curriculum leans toward some of these lines of work over the course of the week. In the athletic department, the idea of respect and honor is instilled and in the community, you are asked to do more than just sit and watch. The community actually makes up the choir for this event. Rehearsals and all, up to 1000 people join together to sing the National Anthem and God Bless America and that sense of "one" becomes a little stronger. 
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All of the branches of the military will have some kind of display on hand, be it interactive or informational. The police and fire departments will have displays for kids to be a part of and learn from. The weather will be perfect and the event will offer moments of cheering and reverence all followed up by a great game between Mona Shores and Zeeland West, who by the way was the team who Shores played in the inaugural Sailor Salute when it started.
Always up to help out an important event, Tim Lipan joins today to talk about the beginnings of all of this 5 years ago and what to expect this Friday night just off Seminole Road in Muskegon. Take a listen as to how you can be a part of this amazing gathering of pride and community.
It's an outdoor event and the opportunity to enjoy an awesome game and all of the accoutrements ahead of it only comes once a year. There is so much to see and do and this year especially to work our way back toward togetherness is an idea who's time has come, although again, Muskegon has done far better than most. Tickets will be available at the door and they are $5 to enjoy the game. It's a great chance for pictures with your kids. An awesome opportunity for them to understand that all of our first responders are serving with purpose and it's a chance for all to remember and reflect. We hope you can make it out to this amazing event Friday night at Mona Shores High School.
