Friendship Center hosted a private Veteran’s Day luncheon celebration on Thursday, November 10th honoring Friendship Center members who are veterans, and their families. The event was coordinated by Kim Larsen, Family Services Manager, and Sophia Davis, Development Director.
Fabulous weather, delicious food and drink, a great emcee, and live singing all added to the joyful occasion. “At Friendship Center we celebrate and honor our Veterans who sacrificed so much for us and our Country.” said Heidi Holly, Friendship Center’s Executive Director, “We are proud to currently serve 17 Veterans at Friendship Center, most of which receive support to attend through the Veterans Administration. My father served in the Korean war and words are not enough to express the gratitude I hold in my heart for our Veterans.”
The veterans represented every branch of the military and fought in WW11, Korea, Vietnam, Bay of Pigs and during the Cold War. The focus of the event was the reading of each veteran’s biography – which was very moving, and detailed their branch/rank/title, years of service, interesting stories, and lessons learned. The framed biographies were gifted to each veteran, along with festive potted purple violets, as a symbol of appreciation. “This was such a beautiful way to acknowledge and honor such an important part of our members’ life stories, and we all learn something so valuable from each one.” Sophia Davis, Development Director shared as she smiled with pride.
Highlights from the event included Wendy Motta, Senior District Representative from Congressman Salud Carbajal’s office, 24th Congressional District handing out Congressional proclamations to each veteran, Eric Friedman, Santa Barbara City Council Member, and Tony Morris, President of the Montecito Rotary Club- who was the main sponsor of this event. We were very appreciative to have Carol Metcalf-Roth as our emcee, and Deborah Bertling sing the National Anthem. Guests enjoyed a delicious catered lunch donated by Rosewood Miramar Beach Hotel and Resort, and tasty patriotic cupcakes donated by Pure Joy Catering.
