26 NOVEMBER 2017 Arc A d A News By Rachael Bouley S tudents at Christ Lutheran School are shining a light on the incredible sacrifices of our veterans. Through hard work and community outreach, they’ve established a beloved annual Veterans Day Breakfast, a tradition that brings students and service members together. Months of planning go into the special event, with middle schoolers busy making decorations, sending invitations and organizing their roles for the day of the event. Nearly 65 students combine efforts to greet veterans at the door, provide a warm welcome and serve a delicious breakfast. Students and staff aim to create a safe environment where veterans can share their experiences and feel appreciated. “One of the most memorable parts is when we pass the mic around the room and all the veterans share their name, when and where they served, and a memory or two,” said Megan Ehlers, who works as the school’s service learning coordinator and oversees planning of the Veterans Day celebration. “Some bring memorabilia from their service and having them open up and share about their time is really impactful for students.” What began as a very small gathering has grown every year, with nearly 60 veterans expected to attend this November. It will be an early rise-and-shine for the students, who plan to arrive ahead of time Veterans Day Breakfast continues at Christ Lutheran Serving the Arcadia area since 1958          Find us on Facebook! Member Since 1959      •  •    •    •    •         4855 E Thomas Rd, Phoenix AZ 85018 | www.ingleside.com Holidays Are Just Around the Corner! Schedule Your Holiday Boarding Today! BRIAN A. SERBIN, DVM • RACHEL BART, DVM KATIE CHILES, DVM • KATHERINE HEWITT, DVM • TALI TONCRAY, DVM HOSPITAL 602-840-3446 | GROOMING 602-952-1754 Grooming OPEN Tues - Sat Your Trusted Insurance Advisors BUSINESS . HOME . AUTO . LIFE . HEALTH Protecting what's yours. Your Trusted Insurance Advisors SINESS . HOME . AUTO . LIFE . HEALTH otecting what's yours.

27 NOVEMBER 2017 ARCAD A NEWS to prepare for their guests. “The kids are really energetic, running all over the place, helping adult leaders and getting things ready,” Ehlers said. “We really concentrate on the front entrance, so when veterans get here there’s a warm welcome.” When they arrive, guests will be treated to bagels and cream cheese, quiche, fruit yogurt, donuts and muffins. Students get to bond with veterans over breakfast and learn more about their heroic acts of patriotism. For many, it’s a very emotional and healing morning. “One of the Vietnam vets started crying after the breakfast, and he said it was the first time anyone had ever thanked him for his service,” Ehlers said. “When they got back, it was something to hide and be ashamed of, so that was really cool to hear.” Many of the veterans praise the students for their hard work and dedication to honoring military members. It’s a clear case of mutual admiration, as the students cherish the opportunity to talk to veterans and hear their stories. “It was so awesome to hear their own personal aspects of being a veteran and I’ve learned a lot. I found out that some people missed birthdays and Christmas, and a few said they joined the military in honor of family members,” said student Gracie Phelps. “I think veterans are so inspiring because of what they’ve done- they sacrificed their lives for me and my family and every single American. I respect that.” The eye-opening experience leaves students with a better understanding of their country and the heroes who defend it. “I learned that some veterans didn’t ever get acknowledgment after their service, which is why it’s so important to celebrate Veterans Day with them,” said student Christian Smith. “They inspire me to work hard in everything I do because they had to work hard.” Raeli Morrison with her mom, U.S. Marine Cherie Morrison. Greer McClune with his Grandpa, Veteran Dave Warnecke. I learned that some veterans didn’t ever get acknowledgment after their service, which is why it’s so important to celebrate Veterans Day with them.” Contact Roni@Arcadianews.com today to find out how you can save up to 46% on your ad investment! How to reach 50,000 potential patients or clients... G U I D E The Arcadia News Health & Wellness Guide is the perfect way to promote your practice or business to the affluent, educated and health-minded readers of the Arcadia News . The Health & Wellness Guide is mailed in the Arcadia News six times per year to homes in the Arcadia/ Biltmore/Camelback Corridor. It is also distributed at over 70 retail locations. 2018 Health & Wellness Guide JANUARY 2018 Deadline: Friday, Dec.15 MARCH 2018 Deadline: Friday, Feb. 16 tangelo • by will beger acrylic on panel 48” X 30” X 1.75” Representing students of Arizona universities, community colleges and high schools, as well as other emerging Arizona artists since 1993. 480.946.5076 artonegalleryinc.com 4130 n marshall way scottsdale CELEBRATING 24 YEARS!