25th Annual Ron DeMartino Lasagna Dinner in Honor of Our Veterans

For 25 years, Guilford Interfaith Volunteers has proudly celebrated our veterans with a complimentary Veterans Day dinner. This November 11th was no different, and as we reflect on another wonderful evening, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped make this special tradition possible.

First and foremost, we thank our veterans. Your service, sacrifice, and commitment to our country deserve our deepest gratitude, not just on Veterans Day, but every day.

We are incredibly grateful to the Guilford Parks and Recreation Department, which has co-hosted this dinner with us for all 25 years. We also extend our sincere appreciation to the Guilford Foundation, Ascend Bank, and the Ethan Miller Song Foundation for their generous sponsorship and continued commitment to our community.

A very special thank you goes to Larry Santamaria and his kitchen crew. This dinner simply would not happen without their dedication, hard work, and wonderful meals. And yes, Larry is a veteran himself, spending Veterans Day working to honor fellow veterans. That speaks volumes about his generosity and heart.

We are equally grateful to Matt Hoey, Christine Cohen, and Rev. Ginger Brasher Cunningham for always joining us, sharing a blessing, and offering their heartfelt appreciation for those who have served.

Our thanks also go to the GIV Board of Directors for their countless hours of preparation, generous raffle donations, and hands-on assistance. We are especially thankful to Troop 444 and the Guilford High School students who helped serve our guests and clean up afterward. Their willingness to give their time is a wonderful reminder of the spirit of community that makes Guilford so special.  We also thank North Guilford Cub Pack 472 and the Guilford middle schools for writing cards and decorations for the Veterans.

Finally, this dinner carries a very special name. The Ron DeMartino Patriotic Dinner honors a longtime GIV board member, Meals on Wheels driver, and veteran whose dedication to our organization and community will never be forgotten. We are proud to continue honoring Ron's memory and service each year.

Twenty-five years is a remarkable milestone, and it is made possible by the generosity, kindness, and commitment of so many. To everyone who played a part, whether behind the scenes or at the dinner itself, thank you.