The Winning Combination

I'd like to extend a special thanks to Denise Gallardo. With all of the planning and hard work these past six months, leading our School in this event was an amazing undertaking. Each year, the International Festival grows in terms of both attendance and prestige, truly separating our School from so many of our peers. This event is a signature one for us, and this year's gathering was absolutely a big highlight of the year. Thank you, Denise!

 

Our Alumni Relations Director, Alex Cartaya, also took on a variety of tasks with poise and professionalism. Moreover, as International Festival weekend was also Alumni Weekend, Alex and the Development Team continued to work hard with more evening alumni parties and activities on Saturday. Thank you, Alex!

 

Thank you, as well, to Victor Calderon and all of our Securitas members and local patrol, for keeping us safe and secure, and doing so with such a welcoming presence. With thousands of guests and neighbors, our campus was full of activity, from sunup to sundown. Thank you, Victor and team!

 

As always, Art Beguiristain and our entire Coastal team had our grounds ready for the big crowd, and, while the rest of us were resting or attending alumni events that evening, they stayed late to make sure we were ready to reopen School the next day. After a full week of athletic contests, extracurricular activities, and evening events, the demands on this team were quite taxing and required real dedication, effort, and patience. Thank you, Art and team!

 

Finally, let me also say a big thank you to a whole host of Staff members for making this annual tradition such a wonderful one. Thank you to Susi Cetta, Chriss Wood, Suzanne Calleja, and Juan Gomez, for all of their efforts, ranging from the Club Hub, to communications, to securing sponsorships, and for handling so many logistical details. With enthusiasm and true commitment, all of these administrative folks made sure we were fully ready for the weekend's activities.

 

Without listing every single individual involved in pulling off such a weekend, please note how grateful I continue to be to serve in such a community. Throughout the day, I heard remarks on how beautiful our green campus is, how welcoming our community is, and how proud we should be of our incredible diversity. There is a genuine buzz around Palmer Trinity School these days, and it's not just by happenstance. The International Festival really captures the essence of Palmer Trinity School, and, for the 2,500 plus in attendance, is a day filled with meaningful traditions, spirited celebrations, delicious food, and, pure fun. The event delivered on all counts, and again, I consider myself lucky and very privileged to be a part of this great School. 

 

Once again, thank you one and all for making the 19th International Festival such a resounding success. I sincerely look forward to continuing our celebration of what has been an incredible year at Palmer Trinity School. And, if I do say so myself, I believe we have just the right mix---the winning combination---if you will, for continued success and even more wonderful moments in these coming days. Onward and upward!