LAMORINDA WEEKLY | Annual twilight concert honors active and former military


Bill Lew, 2018 Veteran of the Year, (second from right) enjoys the patriotic music at a previous "Tribute to the Troops" event. Photo provided

One of the best times to support and honor active military, reserves, veterans and Gold Star Families is on the heels of America's most patriotic of holidays, when the country celebrates its independence. And what better venue in which to honor them, surrounded by community, than the Lafayette Reservoir during the annual "Tribute to the Troops" concert and picnic on July 14?

The concert is hosted by the Rotary Club of Lafayette and will take place, as in previous years, at the Lafayette Rotary stage and picnic area overlooking the beautiful waters of the reservoir, a short way east of the parking lot. Golf cart shuttles to the stage area will be available for those who need assistance. Residents are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chairs and a picnic and enjoy the free musical event in the cool of the evening.

The 32-piece Big Band of Rossmoor, established 26 years ago comprising musicians aged 14 to 93, will be providing the big band sounds. Joining them will be special guests The High Water Line - a bluegrass band from San Francisco, featuring fiddle, banjo, guitar, bass and mandolin.

Master of ceremonies this year is Lafayette Rotarian Maurice (Mo) Williams. The program will pay special tribute to Gold Star Families and Blue Star Moms. Organizers encourage any active or former military members to attend, in uniform if possible, so the community may express its gratitude.

Lafayette Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Jay Lifson points out that this is a wonderful opportunity to meet active members of the military and families of fallen heroes.

"These families are our neighbors," says Lifson. "Let's hear their stories and ensure they know our gratitude for those who are serving and those who paid the ultimate price."

Also in attendance look for American Legion Post 517, Lafayette Boy Scout Troop 243, Concord Vet Center, Marines Memorial Club of San Francisco, Military Escort Team, Rides 4 Veterans, Ruck March Team - Travis Air Force Base, Some Gave All - The Joey Graves Foundation, Team Red, White & Blue, and Lafayette Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8063. The Mobile Vet Center with onsite counseling on veteran benefits, healthcare, finances, education and housing will also be available.

The free twilight concert runs from 5 to 8 p.m. July 14. For more information go to www.thebigbandofrossmoor.org.