The calls would usually begin at the end of the summer piercing the calm that precedes the start of a new school year at Regional Day School.

“Hey, Ralph. Phil Bianco. How many students do we have for next year?”

As the months progressed Phil would find tune his calls in order to get the number right and adjust his order so that, as he said, “everyone had enough.”

Over the past several years Mr. Bianco’s holiday visit became an unparalleled event which taught everyone about the power of giving in the face of overwhelming obstacles. Each year he sat quietly in our multi-purpose room and distributed an abundance of gifts to our students. A man of few words, he reveled in their joy.

On February 25, 2008, we lost a man who revered children. Time moves quickly through schools. I already miss next year’s call. Thank you and God Bless You, Mr. Bianco.  And, yes, for the record it was always more than enough.

Ralph Lotierzo, Principal