"This beautiful gathering place was created in memory of a very special Explorer who is no longer with us physically but who will always be with us in spirit," said Thomas Kruczek, Columbus president.  The ceremony, held in front of the courtyard on the third floor of the new Marcus Lemonis and Mario Sueiras Center for Science and the Arts, was attended by Daniel's parents Mike and Mari Quesada as well as dozens of his family members and friends.  Br. Kevin Handibode, currently in his 51st year at Columbus, gave the opening prayer and Deacon James Dugard presided over the blessing ceremony.  Deacon Dugard blessed the entire courtyard which includes a plaque with Daniel's image and a beautiful statue of Mary our Good Mother which was imported from Italy with the help of Rev. Alejandro Rodriguez Artola, Columbus alum and pastor of St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church.  

Also in attendance was Jorge Rico, a Columbus alumni parent and former board member, who's generous donation allowed the school to construct the courtyard and purchase the statue and the plaque with Daniel's image.

 

"Today, September 8th, we celebrate the nativity of the Virgin Mary and it is also the feast day of Our Lady of Charity; how appropriate that today we bless our beautiful courtyard with Mary our Good Mother at it's center reminding us that Mary is always there to watch over us," said President Kruczek. "May Coach DQ Courtyard serve to always keep Danny's memory alive at Christopher Columbus High School."