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8 Towns That Truly Celebrate Veterans on Veterans Day

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Veteran's Day Parade
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Veterans Day began as Armistice Day in 1919, marking the end of World War I on November 11, 1918. Originally dedicated to honoring WWI veterans, it became a legal holiday in 1938. After World War II and the Korean War, the U.S. Congress renamed it Veterans Day in 1954 to honor all American veterans who served in the military, both in war and peace. Today, it is observed annually on November 11 as a tribute to the courage and sacrifice of U.S. service members.

Veterans Day celebrations across the United States serve as heartfelt tributes to the men and women who have served in the nation’s armed forces. Communities gather for parades, ceremonies, and moments of silence to honor the sacrifices and bravery of veterans from all branches of the military. Schools and civic organizations often host educational programs and assemblies, while local governments and veterans’ groups organize wreath-laying events at memorials and cemeteries. These celebrations not only recognize the service of veterans but also foster a deeper appreciation for the freedoms they helped secure. Here are 8 towns that are known for hosting heartfelt, large-scale, or historically significant Veterans Day celebrations that honor service members with pride and community spirit.

1. Mobile, Alabama

Mobile is considered the birthplace of Veterans Day. The city hosts one of the oldest and most patriotic parades in the country, featuring military bands, floats, and thousands of spectators. Plus, there are many other events to celebrate the occasion. This includes the annual Veterans Day concert by the Mobile Pops at the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park. Other local events will include a Veterans Day lunch at Fort Whiting Armory and a Parade of Flags. 

2. New York City, New York

Home to one of the nation’s largest Veterans Day parades, NYC’s “America’s Parade” draws over 20,000 participants and hundreds of thousands of spectators. It’s a massive tribute that includes active-duty military, veterans, and civic groups. The parade has more than 280 marching units and more than 20,000 marchers.

3. Washington, D.C.

The nation’s capital puts on many Veterans Day events throughout the area. The National Veterans Day Observance at Arlington National Cemetery includes a solemn wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. It’s attended by dignitaries and offers a deeply moving experience. The highlight of the weekend will be on Sunday, November 9th, when the National Veterans Day Parade marches proudly up Constitution Avenue—from the National Archives to the White House. Other events include the Grand Marshal Dinner at the Ronald Reagan International Trade Center, the National Field Show for Bands on the National Mall, and opening ceremonies at the National Archives.

4. Chillicothe, Illinois

This small town gained national attention when a local Eagle Scout created a documentary honoring veterans. American Flags rates this small town as the number one best Veterans Day celebration. Chillicothe’s celebrations are personal, community-driven, and deeply respectful. This year, St. Edward’s Catholic School will hold Veterans Day festivities.

5. Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix hosts a vibrant Veterans Day parade along Central Avenue, featuring military vehicles, marching bands, and community organizations. It’s one of the largest in the Southwest. Every year, it attracts more than 40,000 spectators. The Veterans Day event begins on Montebello Street and Central Avenue before heading east on Camelback. From there, the route heads south on 7th Street, before ending at Indian School Road.

6. Branson, Missouri

Known for its year-round patriotism, Branson hosts a week-long Veterans Homecoming celebration. Some events include a military film festival, a World War II mini-reunion, a sporting clays shoot, and a Veterans’ Spouses luncheon. The week culminates in a massive parade and tribute events. It’s one of the most veteran-friendly towns in America.

7. San Diego, California

San Diego has a strong military presence. It has five major Navy and Marine Corps bases and more than 115,000 active-duty service members in the region. Additionally, it’s estimated that San Diego is home to more than 230,000 veterans. So, San Diego makes sure to honor its veterans. This includes parades, naval tributes, and museum ceremonies. The USS Midway often hosts special commemorations as well.

8. Aberdeen Township, New Jersey

This New Jersey Township has an interesting event for Veterans Day. On November 8, they host a Breakfast and Car Show for their veterans. Food trucks, veteran-owned vendors, and organization tables are part of the festivities. You can find the event at the Matawan Regional High School.

Honoring Service, Inspiring Community

These Veterans Day celebrations go beyond tradition; they foster connection, remembrance, and a shared sense of national pride. As we reflect on these inspiring communities, we’re reminded that honoring our veterans is not just a one-day event, but a lasting commitment to those who have given so much for our freedom.

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Old Lottery Tickets: 10 Things You Should Know About Lottery Ticket Expiration Dates

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lottery ticket expiration dates
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Are you a winner and don’t even know it? That forgotten lottery ticket tucked inside your wallet might be worth more—or less—than you think. Each year, millions of dollars in unclaimed prizes expire simply because players miss the deadline. So, what’s the timeline for cashing in on winnings? The Multi-State Lottery Association (MUSL) and state lottery agencies enforce strict timelines for redeeming winnings, often ranging from 90 days to one year. Whether you buy scratch-offs or Powerball, knowing how expiration rules work can prevent you from losing a potential windfall. Here are ten essential facts about lottery ticket deadlines every player should know.

1. Each State Sets Its Own Expiration Rules

Each state sets its own lottery expiration dates. These may be different for each game type, as well. Some states give winners 180 days to claim prizes, while others allow up to a full year. Multi-state games like Powerball and Mega Millions follow local jurisdiction rules, not national ones. Check with your state lottery for more detailed information on expiration dates. If you travel or purchase tickets across borders, make sure to check that state’s rules.

2. Draw Games and Scratch-Offs Have Different Timelines

Scratch-off games usually have longer claim periods than draw games. The Florida Lottery allows scratch-off redemptions up to 180 days from the official game-ending date. Powerball tickets in Florida expire 180 days after the drawing. Draw games have a specific event date, while scratch-off tickets remain in circulation until they are scratched or new editions replace them.

3. Expiration Dates Begin the Day After the Drawing

Timing matters when it comes to redemption. According to the Texas Lottery Commission, expiration countdowns begin the day after the draw. So, a winning ticket from July 1 begins its claim window right on July 2. Missing even one day beyond the deadline typically means forfeiting all winnings.

4. Lost or Damaged Tickets Usually Can’t Be Replaced

You may have heard about lost lottery tickets or theft in the news. Unfortunately, there isn’t much to be done if you lose a winning ticket. Lottery tickets are treated as bearer instruments; whoever holds them owns them. Lost, stolen, or severely damaged tickets cannot be reissued. Always sign the back of your ticket immediately after purchase and store it in a safe place. That signature proves ownership if disputes arise.

5. Expired Prizes May Be Redirected to Education Funds

Many state lotteries channel unclaimed prize money into education or community programs. The Georgia Lottery and North Carolina Education Lottery both direct expired funds to scholarship initiatives. Missing your claim doesn’t mean the money vanishes. Instead, it often gets reinvested in public programs. But you’ll still lose your personal payout.

6. Lottery Retailers Can’t Always Validate Old Tickets

Retail scanners automatically reject expired tickets. Unfortunately, store clerks have no authority to override expired claims. For older tickets or disputed cases, you must contact the state lottery’s central office directly. Mailing or submitting a claim form is the only way to verify eligibility once a game closes.

7. Multi-State Jackpot Rules Can Differ

If you purchased a Powerball or Mega Millions ticket in one state but live in another, you must redeem it where you bought it. Each state handles its own prize distribution and deadlines. Even multi-billion-dollar jackpots follow these localized rules.

8. Some States Offer Second-Chance Drawings

Don’t throw away losing tickets too quickly! You may have multiple chances to be a winner. The Virginia Lottery and other states run second-chance programs, allowing players to enter non-winning tickets for extra drawings. These promotions often have separate expiration windows, so check the fine print on your ticket.

9. Taxes Still Apply—Even for Late Claims

If you claim a prize near the expiration date, the same federal and state taxes apply. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) treats lottery winnings as taxable income regardless of timing. Filing late in the year could push you into a higher tax bracket, so consider consulting a tax professional before redeeming large prizes.

10. Checking Expiration Dates Can Pay Off—Literally

Dozens of six-figure prizes go unclaimed annually. Regularly checking your tickets, even months later, could uncover forgotten winnings. Some states post public lists of unclaimed prizes online. This makes it easy to see if luck is still on your side.

Don’t Let Time Erase Your Winnings

Lottery deadlines are firm, and once they pass, the money is gone. Whether you play weekly or only occasionally, store tickets safely, review state rules, and set reminders to check results promptly. The next jackpot you win might depend not just on luck, but on timing.

Have you ever found an old lottery ticket after it expired? Share your story in the comments.

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7 Everyday Habits Waiters Secretly Wish You Would Stop Doing

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Everyday habits your waiter wishes you would stop doing
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Eating out should be enjoyable for both guests and staff. But without proper etiquette, you may be quietly frustrating restaurant staff. Customers see many habits as harmless, yet they can be incredibly demeaning and rude to waiters. These behaviors can slow down service, add stress, and reduce fairness to staff and other guests. Without self-awareness, individuals often repeat these habits without realizing the impact. Here are seven everyday habits waiters secretly wish you would stop doing.

1. Snapping or Waving to Get Attention

You should never snap at anyone. It is incredibly disrespectful and demeaning. Waiters juggle many tables at a time and will get to you as soon as possible. A simple nod or eye contact is all it takes to get attention if needed. A polite hand raise works better as well. Even if you are impatient, you should always respect others.

2. Asking for “Something Special” Off the Menu

If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, that’s one thing. But picky eaters should do their best to pick restaurants that have menu items they are willing to eat as is. Custom requests throw kitchens off balance. Ultimately, it slows down service for everyone. You’ll also put waiters in a tricky situation since they may be stuck apologizing for delays. Menus exist for a reason. Keep your order simple.

3. Ignoring Reservation Times

Many restaurants have cancellation policies and won’t hold your reservation if you’re late. If you expect to arrive late, call the restaurant to see if they can accommodate you. Showing up late disrupts seating schedules, so don’t act like you’re still guaranteed a table. Be aware that waiters lose potential tips when tables can’t turn. Timeliness respects both staff and other guests.

4. Talking on Phones While Ordering

It’s very disrespectful to be on your phone at a restaurant, unless it’s a fast casual or fast food restaurant. When you’re ordering, being on your phone distracts from clear communication. It’s not fair to your waiter. If a mistake is made, it’s your fault. Instead, quick, focused interactions help everyone. Phones can wait until after. If it’s urgent, be polite and step outside.

5. Splitting Checks in Complicated Ways

Splitting checks can be a nightmare for wait staff. Dividing bills into too many parts creates delays for everyone. Yes, technology helps, but usually time still suffers. Your waiter will appreciate simple, even splits. If you know that you want to split the bill, let your waiter know before you order.

6. Overstaying After Paying

Lingering at a cleared table blocks new guests. Some restaurants now put time limits on tables because of this dining habit. Think about it. Waiters and the restaurant lose income when tables stay occupied too long. You may enjoy conversation but don’t overstay your welcome. Instead, moving to a lounge or bar helps.

7. Leaving Small Messes Behind

When dining out, treat it like your own home. Sugar packets, straw wrappers, and crumbs pile up quickly and leave a mess. It doesn’t take long to clean up a little after yourself. Tidying lightly shows extra consideration. Your server will thank you for the kind gesture.

The Takeaway on Restaurant Etiquette

Dining out is as much about respect as it is about good food or service. Servers notice the little habits customers often overlook, and those details can make or break the experience. Diners who adjust small behaviors create smoother meals, less stress, and a friendlier atmosphere for everyone. A little thoughtfulness goes a long way in building better interactions. The most memorable restaurant experiences always come from mutual respect between guests and staff.

Which of these everyday habits have you caught yourself doing, and do you think most diners realize how frustrating they are?

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