October 12, 2010 > Called to serve Called to serve Submitted By Eileen McDonald Photo by Jan Passama What started as a ceremony to commemorate the beginning of the 2010-2011 school year became a tribute to former Alameda County Board of EducationTrustee, Felix Elizalde, who passed away on September 4, following a courageous battle with cancer. Thanks go out for the assistance and coordination of Mike Jay, President of Newark Rotary, and Boy Scouts Miraj and Sohan Patel, Vallance Au-Yeung, and Jordan Wong representing Mission Peak Troop #176, who postponed their homework to attend the September 28 meeting of the Alameda County Board of Education. They were invited to bring in the flag, post colors, and lead the board and audience in recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance at their first board meeting of the new school year. Due to the unexpected death of Mr. Elizalde, who was a veteran of the United States Armed Forces, it was also decided to honor his memory with the flag ceremony. Following the posting of the flag behind Mr. Elizalde's chair, a candle was lit by Yvonne Cerrato, who reflected on the life of a very dedicated public servant. Her remarks were followed by Board members Joaquin Rivera, Marlon McWilson, Vice President Ken Berrick, and President Eileen McDonald. County Superintendent Sheila Jordan fought back tears as she thanked the scouts and all Fremont middle and high school students for the meaningful ceremony. "Felix would be proud of you. I am proud of you. You are a good example of the wonderful youth we have in our schools."