It may be hard for some to fathom but residents, educators and students past and present will join hands today, Nov. 19, to mark the centennial of a time-tested institution — Ocean Beach Elementary School. The community event is presented by the Ocean Beach Historical Society and will feature San Diego Unified School District (SDUSD) trustee John de Beck and a host of alumni from multiple generations. De Beck represents the majority of the coastal schools on the SDUSD. Today’s celebration marks the opening of the school in 1909 and will be held beginning at 7 p.m. at the Point Loma United Methodist Church, 1984 Sunset Cliffs Blvd. De Beck’s participation will also include recognition of OB Elementary School winning the prestigious honor of “2008 California Distinguished School.” — Staff and contribution