Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Veterans Honored at Cypress Senior Center


The Cypress Senior Center held their annual Veterans Day Tribute on Tuesday, November 10th. Veterans from all five major branches of the United States Armed Forces were honored by the staff and volunteers at the Center.

The ceremonies began with a flag folding ceremony presented by members of the local chapter of the 82nd Airborne Association. The uniformed Honor Guard marched in precision formation and then conducted their unique flag-folding ceremony. The men of the 82nd stated that the first fold they make represents life and the second fold is symbolic of their belief in eternal life. When the flag is completely folded, only stars are showing and that reminds them of our national motto: “In God We Trust.” The flag folding ceremony closed with the bugle sounding “Taps” in honor of our fallen veterans.

Next was the flag salute followed by the singing of “God Bless America” led by Bella Tan and Irene Elser. Recreation Coordinator Teena Tomlinson thanked the event sponsors. These included: Vitas Hospice Care, Robin Ramirez from Forest Lawn, Linda Cook from MD Care, Harry Hedrick, Carol Fukuroku, the Queen Mary, In-N-Out Burgers, the Sunshine Club and Sam’s Club. There was a “Wall of Honor” photo display with pictures of local veterans.

About 150 Cypress area residents participated in the event. Jeff Draper from the Cypress Senior Center staff presented a video tribute to all of the veterans who attend activities at the Senior Center. Entertainment was provided by tap dancers Jessica and Shayna Vasquez who danced to “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy” and “Zoot Suit.” Pianist Irene Elser played patriotic music for the crowd. Veterans from each branch of the military stood when they heard their theme song played.

The Veterans Tribute was organized by Teena Tomlinson, Jeff Draper and Adrianna Hyta from Cypress Recreation and Community Services. They were assisted by a number of local volunteers including a team from Cypress Church located near Ball and Valley View.

The kitchen crew and volunteers prepared and served a delicious meal that included meat, mashed potatoes, vegetables, roll and beverages. The delicious dessert cake was donated by Emeritus at Valley View Senior Living. The Cypress Senior Center is located at 9031 Grindlay just south of Lincoln. The Center provides a wide range of services for local residents. Information is available at (714) 229-2005.
Click HERE to view slideshow of Veterans event.

For information about Cypress Church community service team volunteers you may call: (714) 952-3001

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