Chris Valentino sdb
LONAVLA, JUNE 13, 2008: Don Bosco High School and Junior College, Lonavla officially commenced its new academic year today. Undaunted by the heavy showers lashing the quaint little hill-town, cheerful faces and eager bodies clambered up the familiar pathway leading to Don Bosco. The students, staff and the management ushered in the new academic year 2008-2009 with a short and meaningful prayer-service with the theme “Let’s Start Anew.” Beginning with the lighting of the Lamp, where Fr Thomas D’Costa, Fr Bernard Fernandes and Br. P.M. Thomas represented the management, the Prayer Service paved the way for the other activities. Fr Bernard Fernandes, Principal, welcomed the gathering and coordinated the proceedings. He also appreciated and bid farewell to the outgoing members of the teaching staff, while welcoming the newer additions this year. Announcing the successful results of the HSC Examinations, he congratulated the top achievers, the teachers and the parents for the excellent performance. The key-note address was delivered by Rev. Fr Thomas D’Costa, Rector. Narrating the life-story of Steve Jobs – the pioneering inventor of APPLE computers, Computer NXT and Founder-Director of Pixar Animation Studios, he mentioned how Steve overcame numerous obstacles and a life-threatening illness to reach the heights of success. Quoting Steve he said: “When you look in the mirror, ask yourself: If today were the last day of my life, am I doing what I really want to do with my life? If for a few days, the answer is No, you’d better do something about it.” This was followed by some general instructions and a Staff Meeting. The year has truly begun well with three new members joining the Salesian Community this year: Cl. Rickson Fernandes and Cl. Kiran Salve have begun in right earnest, along with Dn. Christopher. Frs. Thomas D’Costa, Bernard Fernandes, Flovi D’Souza and Salesians Brothers P.M. and A.M. make up the remainder of the vibrant team for the new academic year. Hopefully, the theme Let’s Start Anew will spur Don Bosco Lonavla, on to greater achievements by the year end.