An Email Exchange From Beth Duda to Debra Jacobs: All is Calm in Concert at Patriot Plaza

This morning at Patriot Plaza began as a straightforward day of logistics—and turned into something far richer than I could have imagined. I arrived early to receive the 1,700 chairs, the hospitality tent, the portalets, and the golf carts. It was the first visit to Patriot Plaza for Jose, the leader of the U.S. Tent team, and Leo, our golf cart delivery driver. To say they were blown away by the beauty and majesty of the Plaza is an understatement. They stood quietly for a moment, taking it all in, clearly moved by where they were standing and why it mattered.

Then I met Charles. His wife, Marge, is interred in Section Two, and he was understandably curious about all the activity. When I shared that we were setting up for tomorrow’s concert, he teared up and thanked us for giving Marge such a special holiday treat. As if that wasn’t enough to undo me completely, he went on to say that he wouldn’t be sitting with us in the amphitheater—he planned to experience the concert sitting with Marge. I was in tears right along with him.

A bit later, Fausto—one of the U.S. Tent crew helping set the chairs—stopped me to ask what the event was all about. When I explained, he shared that several of his uncles had served in Vietnam and how proud they would be to know he was helping honor veterans in this way. The pride in his voice was unmistakable.

Before I left, I met Jack and Lois, who had driven from the other side of the state to visit the grave of Lois’s father. Jack told me he planned to go home and gather all of his service paperwork so that one day he and Lois could be buried at Patriot Plaza, too.

Every person I spoke with today was deeply moved by the beauty, dignity, and spirit of Patriot Plaza. I drove away feeling incredibly proud to be working on this project—and profoundly grateful for what a tremendous gift this sacred place is to our community.

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Know Before You Go. A message from Asolo Repertory Theatre

• All Is Calm: In Concert at Patriot Plaza
• Date & Time: Saturday, December 20 at 3:00 PM
• Please plan to arrive early to allow time for parking and seating.
• Location: Patriot Plaza at Sarasota National Cemetery
  9810 State Road 72, Sarasota, FL 34241

Due to the popularity of the concert, arriving early and carpooling is strongly encouraged. We’ll have designated handicapped parking for guests with appropriate tags, and roving golf carts will be available to shuttle those who prefer not to walk from their cars to the Patriot Plaza amphitheater. Concert will begin at 3pm and seating will begin at 2pm

About the Event