Dr. Raul Ruiz, a local physician, spoke about the impact the tragedy made upon medical personnel and how dedicated these people were to heal and save the victims of the World Trade Center. He also spoke of the need for all to heal and forgive after the terrible events took place. Marc Troast, District Director for Congresswoman Mary Bono Mack, relayed a message for the Congresswoman expressing her heartfelt sympathy to the Keating family and encouraging students to become heroes in their lives, too.
Sister Diane Smith, C.S.J., Pastoral Coordinator for St. Theresa Parish, challenged the students to become peacemakers in their daily lives. Principal Cheryl Corey told the children about the impact the 9/11 Memorial in New York City made on her, especially the “survivor tree,” the one tree in the World Trade Center complex that survived the tragedy in 2001. She indicated that the tree was a symbol of hope for all affected by the events of that day. As a culmination, students were given the opportunity to touch a piece of the metal framework from one of the twin towers. The piece will become part of a 9/11 Memorial under construction in Palm Springs. Mrs. Corey encouraged students to say a quiet prayer for the victims of 9/11 and for their families when touching the memorial piece.