June 10, 2004

Simonds’ year-end carnival a huge success
Event inspires fun for all ages

By Justin Petersen
Staff Writer

Simonds Elementary School hosted its annual year-end carnival June 4 to the delight of approximately 600 attendees. The event, spearheaded by President Lisa Fraboni and her Simonds’ Elementary Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), served two main purposes according to P.R. head, Judi Armacost.

“For children, the carnival provides plain old-fashioned fun,” explained Armacost. “For adults, it gives a real sense of community.”

Through the coordination of President Fraboni and the PTA, the carnival ran magnificently. Volunteers included Leland High School students and Simonds’ staff in addition to underappreciated parents, whose commitment and dedication boosted spirits and kept the balls rolling—literally; mostly parents operated more than 30 game booths. A catering spread courtesy of Malibu Bar and Grill sated appetites, while professional entertainment set the rhythm thanks to the David Osborn Band and Castillero Middle School’s jazz ensemble.

“The carnival is certainly an event the kids look forward to every year,” continued Armacost. “Walking around and seeing how hard everybody is working to make the carnival a success, I couldn’t help but be very proud to be part of this community and a parent of Simonds students.”

For prospective students and families, the carnival provided an opportunity to visit the campus and absorb the Simonds experience.

Summed fourth grade teacher Sharon Withrow: “It’s my favorite event of the year. Whatever we make goes into next year’s carnival and it gives us the chance to see current students, former students and potential students in a less formal environment.”