We received an extremely enthusiastic welcome at Harborside Elementary School, Chula Vista. We were met by Principal Matthew Tessier and a very cheerful Hazel Adiles who had not missed a day’s school for 5 years!

We introduced the run and shared our apirations for a more peaceful world.

Mayor Cheryl Cox came to offer her support.

After having the children get very quiet, trying to feel the peace and harmony the lies deep in their hearts,...

...we played our guessing game with them. It's always fun to try to stump the children with our various countries of origin.

But they were just too sharp for us and got them all correct.

Mayor Cheryl Cox then offered some inspiring words about the importance of peace and harmony in the community.

She then offered two Torch Bearer's Awards. The first to our student host and co-runner, Hazel. She has been an outstanding citizen of the school and has not missed a day of school in 5 years.

The second went to Debbie Sanders for tireless work to support the school in many fundraising efforts! They were both overjoyed and honored.

Prinicipal Tessier was then spurred on by the students to do a lap around the playground with the torch.

After his lap, he gave each student the opportunity to hold the torch and make a wish for world harmony.

Finally, a little tetherball match ensued! We were no match for Principal Tessier's skills.

Thank you Manorath for organizing such a great event!

– Mark

Distance: 2 miles

Team Members:
Atulya Lee Berube (San Diego), Mark Collinson (England), Kshetragna Ulanova (Russia), Surya Smolennikova (Russia), Vladimir Salnicov (Moldova), Kokila Chamberlin (England), Drsalu Gruenstaeudl (Austria), Maria Manecke (Germany), Jeromy Cheatham (San Diego), Abhejali Bernardova (Czech Republic), Salil Wilson (Australia), Palash Bosgang (New York), Kalyanika Forester (Washington D.C.), Sukhada Korshunova (Russia)

Harmonemail:
You can send a message to the runners or read the messages.

Gallery: See more images!