Issue link: https://imageup.uberflip.com/i/1524213
20 | THE COLONY NEWS | AUGUST 2024 | Making patriotic friendship bracelets and the finished bracelets. Honoring Widows of Veterans "Our husbands served in the Armed Forces, and we served too. We kept the home fires burning, held our families together, and missed our husbands during the long days, months and years they were away serving our country. We were there for them when they finally came home. They were burned out, battle worn, physically injured or suffering emotional injuries we couldn't see or even begin to understand." ~ Linda Santana, Chair, Salute To Veterans 2024 Salute to Veterans 2024 recently honored The Colony's "unsung heroes" at the first-ever Widows of Veterans Continental Breakfast. The event welcomed 27 ladies to meet 'n' greet, share photos, enjoy culinary delights, learn more about their rightful survivor benefits, and ultimately explore their creative spirit with keepsake RED, WHITE 'n' BLUE bracelets just in time for the 4th of July. Linda Santana opened the much-anticipated event with a heartfelt message: "The planning effort for Salute To Veterans 2024 began last year. It's important for you to know that you were always part of the plan. A few months ago, I became the widow of a veteran, too. Albeit unexpected, the painful experience gives me a deeper understanding and profound appreciation of your journey. This is not a support group. It's reaching out to friends, neighbors, shut-ins, the quiet lady on the block missing her beloved veteran. We hope you'll reach out as well and join us for future veterans' events. You are soldiers, too." Peter Willis, Veterans Advocacy Associate, presented a slide show with handouts covering the numerous benefits available to spouses and surviving family members. Ann Ciccarelli, Sales Marketing Manager, Brookdale Senior Living, shared how their communities provide comfort, beauty and privacy without sacrificing quality of care. Carmen Sanchez, Community Liaison, Right at Home Care, shared how years of caring for her disabled son have given her greater insight and compassion to help improve the quality of life for the seniors and adults with disabilities. "Our sponsors are helping us make events like today possible," said Linda Santana. "Their 'power partnership' of services are designed to meet the varying needs of our veterans and our community. It's important to know and understand how their wealth of services provides more opportunities to live our best life for the rest of our lives." For more information, please visit SALUTE TO VETERANS 2024 sponsors link via The Colony website at www.thecolony@ caloakshoa.com. SALUTE TO VETERANS 2024