Filling the halls with sounds of jolly

Deirdre Newman

The sweet sounds of Christmas carols rang through the hallways of the

Veterans Administration Nursing Home in Long Beach on Wednesday as

students from Corona del Mar High School continued their tradition of

bringing holiday cheer to the veterans.

The carols were just a warmup for a variety show featuring close to 30

students, with acts ranging from intricately choreographed ballet numbers

to lively songs to heartfelt poems being read aloud.

The students have shared the holiday spirit with the hospital’s

veterans for the past 20 years as a way to give back to those who

valiantly fought in World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam War.

“It’s such a rewarding experience for these kids,” said Tracy Widder,

volunteer coordinator. “In eighth grade, they start learning about U.S.

history. Most of these vets are a dying breed.”

The variety show was open to any seventh- or eighth-grader who wished

to participate, and all the acts were designed and choreographed by the

students.

After participating in a dance number last year, Louie Bioche, an

eighth-grader, read a poem he wrote in honor of the veterans.

“It felt real good, and I think they must have felt proud to have it

dedicated to them,” Louie said.

Maggie Donnelly, another eighth-grader, sang a duet with another

student. Maggie said she enjoyed the rewarding experience of performing

for the veterans.

“It’s nice to make all these people smile because they don’t get a lot

of excitement around here,” Maggie said.

After the variety show, the students mingled with the veterans,

delivering gifts and dessert.

Many of the veterans were moved by the students’ spirit of generosity.

“It’s lovely and inspiring,” Vietnam veteran Tom Palmieri said. “It

brought a tear to my eye.”

* Deirdre Newman covers education. She may be reached at (949)

574-4221 or by e-mail at o7 [email protected] .