Melissa Barrera, voted one of the "Most Beautiful Girls" in our senior year starred in the off-Broadway production of "Menopause" in San Antonio. If you remember, Melissa sang Barry Manilow's "Looks Like We Made It" - our senior song - at the prom. So it is no surprise that she has had success in the theatrical world. We wish her much more success in other productions.
She is still as beautiful as she was back in '78.
Read the full story in the link below.
http://airwolf.lmtonline.com/living/archive/092307/living1.pdf
Sunday, June 1, 2008
Our Valedictorian - Dr. Elsa Castro!
Elsa Castro was always the "smartest" student of the Class of '78. Nobody was surprised when she was named the Valedictorian. She had been voted "Most Likely to Succeed" by the Senior class and has she made us proud. Below is her biography found in the pediatric office's website where she works at. She is now residing in New Jersey.
Dr. Castro, a native of south Texas, joined our practice in October of 2001. She resides with her family on a small horse farm in Howell Township. Her cardiology training was completed at the Temple University/St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children Program and at the Mt. Sinai Medical Center. She is board-certified in both General Pediatrics and Pediatric Cardiology.
Since joining our practice, Dr. Castro has actively pursued her special interest in pediatric echocardiography and fetal echocardiography by taking additional training at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Her close relationship with the physicians at that institution ensures excellent continuity of care for patients in our practice with complex congenital heart disease. Dr. Castro is also fluent in both English and Spanish.
You can read more about her and see more photos at the link below.
Dr. Raul Guzman Makes Us Proud!
The following is an excerpt from the Vanderbilt Medical Center's website where Dr. Guzman is an "Assistant Professor of Surgery and Cell Biology - Division of Vascular Surgery at theVanderbilt University Medical Center".
"Dr. Guzman specializes in the treatment of patients with diabetic vascular disease. He is involved in several clinical and research efforts aimed at preventing amputation in patients with diabetes. He is particularly interested in the management of chronic critical limb ischemia using both minimally invasive endovascular methods and traditional surgical approaches."
Education
Dr. Guzman received the ScB degree in Applied Mathematics/Biology from Brown University in 1982. He received his MD degree from the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine in 1986.
You can read more on the following link:
Angie Zuniga - The Class's Most "Favorite Girl"
Angie Zuniga was voted the class's favorite four times (seventh grade, eighth grade, freshman year and sophomore year) more than any other girl. She was the head cheerleader at Lamar Junior High and was the first runner-up in the Miss Laredo Pageant our senior year. I found this current photo of hers in an Austin realtor's website. As you can see by the photo, she is still a beautiful lady.
Jo Emma Arechiga is a Successful Attorney
Jo Emma Arechiga is an attorney at The Cochran Firm in Houston. Her profile is on the link below.
http://www.cochranfirm.com/attorneys/JoArechiga.html
http://www.cochranfirm.com/attorneys/JoArechiga.html
Terry (Stewart) Powell is a Proud Mom!
Terry is seen in a photo with her three handsome sons in the link below. Terry was vey popular in our high school years.
http://airwolf.lmtonline.com/living/archive/051108/living5.pdf
http://airwolf.lmtonline.com/living/archive/051108/living5.pdf
Bede Leyendecker went on to have success as a Dance Professor
The link to the Laredo Morning Times story on Bede Leyendecker is below. Bede was voted "Most Courteous" and was a member of the Prom Court.
http://airwolf.lmtonline.com/living/archive/060301/living4.pdf
http://airwolf.lmtonline.com/living/archive/060301/living4.pdf
Our Twenty-Year Reunion - 1998
Our reunion took place on Labor Day weekend 1998. The first event was held at the lovely home of George Cigarroa in the Regency subdivision of Laredo. More than 300 people attended and it was a great reunion. The sad part was finding out that several of our classmates had passed away. Ana Laura Lopez and Miguel Ochoa were two of our dear classmates that were no longer with us. It was a three day event but I only attended this one.
Angie Zuniga, Melissa Barrera, Terry Stewart, Letty Vazquez and Sarita Velasquez still looked stunning as did many other women that night. Letti Zuniga, the most popular girl our senior year, was now living in San Antonio. Ex band member Rene Garcia was there with his wife, the former Zulema Gonzalez. Mary Margaret Melendez, a former cheerleader, told us how she was now the proud mother of five children. San Juanita Camero was now living in Dallas and Cindy Lira (another former cheerleader) still looked the same and had her own business. Ray and Blanca Castro were high school sweethearts and were still married. Our homecoming queen, Maria Elena Galindo and her husband Eddie Aguero were having a great time. One of the event's coordinator was Dora Chapa who had been a member of the homecoming court. Joe Emma Samuels was there with her beautiful teenage daugter. One of the basketball stars, Felipe Parra, said he now lived in Iowa. And Dr. Raul Guzman said he was living and practicing in Nashville, Tennessee. Our class president, Memo Martinez was now living in Corpus Christi and studying to become an attorney. Neither our class valedictorian Elsa Castro or our head cheerleader Linda Henry were there.
Overall, it was a memorable evening and everyone was enjoying seeing their former classmates that they hadn't seen in years.
The years had changed all of us and many had gone on to successful professions like attorneys, doctors, teachers, school counselors, school principals, accountants, entrepreneurs, managers, dentists, pharmacists, college professors, and housewives too. Some of us had gone through divorces and many were already parents of teenage children while others were still single and looking forward to married life. This reunion brought us back to Laredo from cities across the nation and many had not attended the ten year reunion but were lured to this one for some special reason.
Twenty years had changed our lives, but our dreams still kept us reaching for the stars.
We will always be the class of '78!
Below is the link to the Laredo Morning Times's photos of our 20 year reunion.
http://airwolf.lmtonline.com/living/archive/0913/living6.pdf
Angie Zuniga, Melissa Barrera, Terry Stewart, Letty Vazquez and Sarita Velasquez still looked stunning as did many other women that night. Letti Zuniga, the most popular girl our senior year, was now living in San Antonio. Ex band member Rene Garcia was there with his wife, the former Zulema Gonzalez. Mary Margaret Melendez, a former cheerleader, told us how she was now the proud mother of five children. San Juanita Camero was now living in Dallas and Cindy Lira (another former cheerleader) still looked the same and had her own business. Ray and Blanca Castro were high school sweethearts and were still married. Our homecoming queen, Maria Elena Galindo and her husband Eddie Aguero were having a great time. One of the event's coordinator was Dora Chapa who had been a member of the homecoming court. Joe Emma Samuels was there with her beautiful teenage daugter. One of the basketball stars, Felipe Parra, said he now lived in Iowa. And Dr. Raul Guzman said he was living and practicing in Nashville, Tennessee. Our class president, Memo Martinez was now living in Corpus Christi and studying to become an attorney. Neither our class valedictorian Elsa Castro or our head cheerleader Linda Henry were there.
Overall, it was a memorable evening and everyone was enjoying seeing their former classmates that they hadn't seen in years.
The years had changed all of us and many had gone on to successful professions like attorneys, doctors, teachers, school counselors, school principals, accountants, entrepreneurs, managers, dentists, pharmacists, college professors, and housewives too. Some of us had gone through divorces and many were already parents of teenage children while others were still single and looking forward to married life. This reunion brought us back to Laredo from cities across the nation and many had not attended the ten year reunion but were lured to this one for some special reason.
Twenty years had changed our lives, but our dreams still kept us reaching for the stars.
We will always be the class of '78!
Below is the link to the Laredo Morning Times's photos of our 20 year reunion.
http://airwolf.lmtonline.com/living/archive/0913/living6.pdf
Our Ten Year Class Reunion - 1988
I did not attend this reunion but if anyone reading this did and you have some information, please send it to me at nixonmustang78@gmail.com and I will post your entry and photos.
Friday, May 30, 2008
Our Senior Year at Nixon High School
Our class had always considered itself to be a class of champions from our years at Lamar Junior High. And since having a winning football season determined how successful the school year and the Senior class was, our Senior year turned out to be a disappointment at first. The LISD Superintendent was Vidal M. Trevino and Nixon’s Principal was Armando R. Sanchez and the Assistant Principals were Rogelio Salinas and Dr. Arturo Volpe.
The year began with a pleasant surprise as we celebrated our first pep rally and proudly scripted on the gym's center wall was our school's alma mater:
"To thee our Alma Mater, dear old Nixon High, your sacred walls of knowledge, we will glorify As one our hearts aspire to reach a common goal, all hail our Alma Mater; forever green and gold!"
Class 0f '78
We would always be remembered in our school's history by dedicating this special tribute.
The football team that year was led by Seniors Kenny Hickle, Eddie Aguero, Benito Casares, Randy Falk, Lazaro Ferdin, Gilbert Navarro, Alonzo Ramirez, George Rodriguez, Joe Rodriguez, Mario Sanchez, and Lance Villarreal. The head coach was John Reese. The season ended with a disappointing 3-6-1 record. We also lost to our rival Martin by an embarrassing score of 27-0. Our class never saw Nixon defeat Martin in football in the four years we were there, and we always thought that ours would be the year this would happen.
Our basketball team saved the year by winning the district championship, something the school had never done before. A new spirit of accomplishment overtook us all, and now we understood why our class was so great. Led by head coach Jim Harris the Mustangs captured the District 29-AAAA Co-Championship by defeating our rival school Martin by the score of 74-67 for a Bi-District title! The seniors were Felipe Parra, Juan Puente, Tony Escamilla, and Tony Colunga.
Then came the 60 Minutes story. I believe it was Mike Wallace who traveled to Laredo to do a report on how a poor town like Laredo held an extravagant George Washington Birthday celebration, featuring a mostly Hispanic cast of characters. What many people don’t know is that although Laredo is considered one of the poorest cities in the country, it has a significant amount of wealthy families. The class of ’78 had several students who were members of this wealthy circle.
One of the highlights of the Washington Birthday celebration is the night when George and Martha Washington formally present the debutantes into society. Different wealthy men and women from Laredo’s elite represent George and Martha each year. Traditionally the debutantes are the daughters of the members of the Martha Washington Society and are in their senior year in high school. Most of the debutantes in the 1978 Washington celebration were from Nixon’s Class of ’78. They were: Rosa de Llano, Letti Zuniga, Nora Montemayor, Roberta Rodriguez, Nina Neel, Lamar Leyendecker, Nelda Trevino, Celeste Jackson, Letitia Barfield, Emilie Dodier, Margaret “Bubba” Jones, Shawn Young, and Melissa Barrera. In the 60 Minutes story on CBS, Melissa was prominently featured curtseying and thus one of our most beautiful girls was seen nationwide. This event demonstrated how unique and prominent our school and our class truly were.
The Mustang Cheerleaders were Head Cheerleader Linda Henry, and Seniors Mary Margaret Melendez, Cindy Lira, Barbara Arciniega, and Lizette Pierluissi.
Junior Cheerleaders were Deana Flores and Laura Rangel, and the Sophomore Cheerleaders were Maricela Alonzo and Lety Miranda. An observation to make was that Irma Hinojosa was voted as the Head Cheerleader but when the year started, to our surprise, she decided to drop out thus Linda Henry assumed her position.
Mustang Mascot: Shawn Young (The school's first ever mascot)
Senior Golden Spur Staff: Marta Pena, Diana Vargas, Lizzette Pierluissi, Adriana Romo, Laura Castellano, and Aurora Luna.
Senior Brass Buttons: President Bede Leyendecker, Celia Ramirez, Ninfa de la Garza, Zulema Gonzalez, Martha Bruni, Clara Garcia, Brenda Chandarlis, Linda Chandarlis, Irma Benavides, Geraldine Gonzalez, Maria Elena Galindo, Emilie Dodier, Alma Leal, and Brunilda Ponce.
Maria Elena Galindo was elected Homecoming Queen for the Class of 1978. Her court consisted of Letti Zuniga, Linda Henry, Dora Chapa and Barbara Arciniega.
Linda Henry was elected as Football Sweetheart. Her court consisted of Kelly Contreras, Barbara Arciniega, Mary Margaret Melendez, and Marta Pena.
Senior Favorites:
Most Popular: Letti Zuniga and Memo Martinez
Most Likely to Succeed: Carlos Lopez and Elsa Castro
Most School Spirited: Randy Whittaker and Ana Laura Lopez
Most Athletic: Brenda Virjan and Mike Luna
Most Studious: Danny Sanchez and Celeste Jackson
Most Handsome: Kenny Hickle
Most Beautiful: Melissa Barrera and Linda Henry
Best All Around: Ana Laura Lopez and Memo Martinez
Friendliest: Ninfa de La Garza, Maria Villarreal, and Gilbert Barrera
Band Sweeteart: Ana Laura Lopez
Sports Queen: Nelda Trevino
Most Courteous: Bede Leyendecker and Lazaro Ferdin
Wittiest: Isabel Shaver and Zeke Rodriguez
1st Runner up in Miss Laredo Pageant: Angie Zuniga
Senior Class Officers – Class of 1978
President – Memo Martinez
Vice President – Carlos Lopez
Treasurer – Alisa Garcia
Secretary – Maria Elena Galindo
Sgt. At Arms – Geraldine Gonzalez
Reporter – Letty Martinez
Historian – Belinda Trevino
Parliamentarian – Elena Mendez
Prom King and Queen: Kenny Hickle and Letti Zuniga
Valedictorian: Elsa Castro
Top 50 Hits in 1978
1. Shadow Dancing, Andy Gibb2. Night Fever, Bee Gees3. You Light Up My Life, Debby Boone4. Stayin' Alive, Bee Gees5. Kiss You All Over, Exile6. How Deep Is Your Love, Bee Gees7. Baby Come Back, Player8. (Love Is) Thicker Than Water, Andy Gibb9. Boogie Oogie Oogie, A Taste Of Honey10. Three Times A Lady, Commodores11. Grease, Frankie Valli12. I Go Crazy, Paul Davis13. You're The One That I Want, John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John 14. Emotion, Samantha Sang15. Lay Down Sally, Eric Clapton16. Miss You, Rolling Stones17. Just The Way You Are, Billy Joel18. With A Little Luck, Wings19. If I Can't Have You, Yvonne Elliman20. Dance, Dance, Dance (Yowsah, Yowsah, Yowsah), Chic21. Feels So Good, Chuck Mangione22. Hot Child In The City, Nick Gilder23. Love Is Like Oxygen, Sweet24. It's A Heartache, Bonnie Tyler25. We Are The Champions/We Will Rock You, Queen26. Baker Street, Gerry Rafferty27. Can't Smile Without You, Barry Manilow28. Too Much, Too Little, Too Late, Johnny Mathis and Deniece Williams 29. Dance With Me, Peter Brown30. Two Out Of Three Ain't Bad, Meat Loaf31. Jack And Jill, Raydio32. Take A Chance On Me, Abba33. Sometimes When We Touch, Dan Hill34. Last Dance, Donna Summer35. Hopelessly Devoted To You, Olivia Newton-John36. Hot Blooded, Foreigner37. You're In My Heart, Rod Stewart38. The Closer I Get To You, Roberta Flack and Donny Hathaway39. Dust In The Wind, Kansas40. Magnet And Steel, Walter Egan41. Short People, Randy Newman42. Use Ta Be My Girl, O'Jays43. Our Love, Natalie Cole44. Love Will Find A Way, Pablo Cruise45. An Everlasting Love, Andy Gibb46. Love Is In The Air, John Paul Young47. Goodbye Girl, David Gates48. Slip Slidin' Away, Paul Simon49. The Groove Line, Heatwave50. Thunder Island, Jay Ferguson
Top TV Shows in 1978
1. Laverne & Shirley
2. Three’s Company
3. Mork and Mindy
4. Happy Days
5. The Ropers
6. What’s Happening
7. Alice
8. MASH
9. All in the Family
10.Taxi
11. 60 Minutes
12. Charlie’s Angels
13. Angie
14. Alice
15. WKRP in Cincinnati
16. Soap
17. Eight is Enough
18. Barney Miller
The year began with a pleasant surprise as we celebrated our first pep rally and proudly scripted on the gym's center wall was our school's alma mater:
"To thee our Alma Mater, dear old Nixon High, your sacred walls of knowledge, we will glorify As one our hearts aspire to reach a common goal, all hail our Alma Mater; forever green and gold!"
Class 0f '78
We would always be remembered in our school's history by dedicating this special tribute.
The football team that year was led by Seniors Kenny Hickle, Eddie Aguero, Benito Casares, Randy Falk, Lazaro Ferdin, Gilbert Navarro, Alonzo Ramirez, George Rodriguez, Joe Rodriguez, Mario Sanchez, and Lance Villarreal. The head coach was John Reese. The season ended with a disappointing 3-6-1 record. We also lost to our rival Martin by an embarrassing score of 27-0. Our class never saw Nixon defeat Martin in football in the four years we were there, and we always thought that ours would be the year this would happen.
Our basketball team saved the year by winning the district championship, something the school had never done before. A new spirit of accomplishment overtook us all, and now we understood why our class was so great. Led by head coach Jim Harris the Mustangs captured the District 29-AAAA Co-Championship by defeating our rival school Martin by the score of 74-67 for a Bi-District title! The seniors were Felipe Parra, Juan Puente, Tony Escamilla, and Tony Colunga.
Then came the 60 Minutes story. I believe it was Mike Wallace who traveled to Laredo to do a report on how a poor town like Laredo held an extravagant George Washington Birthday celebration, featuring a mostly Hispanic cast of characters. What many people don’t know is that although Laredo is considered one of the poorest cities in the country, it has a significant amount of wealthy families. The class of ’78 had several students who were members of this wealthy circle.
One of the highlights of the Washington Birthday celebration is the night when George and Martha Washington formally present the debutantes into society. Different wealthy men and women from Laredo’s elite represent George and Martha each year. Traditionally the debutantes are the daughters of the members of the Martha Washington Society and are in their senior year in high school. Most of the debutantes in the 1978 Washington celebration were from Nixon’s Class of ’78. They were: Rosa de Llano, Letti Zuniga, Nora Montemayor, Roberta Rodriguez, Nina Neel, Lamar Leyendecker, Nelda Trevino, Celeste Jackson, Letitia Barfield, Emilie Dodier, Margaret “Bubba” Jones, Shawn Young, and Melissa Barrera. In the 60 Minutes story on CBS, Melissa was prominently featured curtseying and thus one of our most beautiful girls was seen nationwide. This event demonstrated how unique and prominent our school and our class truly were.
The Mustang Cheerleaders were Head Cheerleader Linda Henry, and Seniors Mary Margaret Melendez, Cindy Lira, Barbara Arciniega, and Lizette Pierluissi.
Junior Cheerleaders were Deana Flores and Laura Rangel, and the Sophomore Cheerleaders were Maricela Alonzo and Lety Miranda. An observation to make was that Irma Hinojosa was voted as the Head Cheerleader but when the year started, to our surprise, she decided to drop out thus Linda Henry assumed her position.
Mustang Mascot: Shawn Young (The school's first ever mascot)
Senior Golden Spur Staff: Marta Pena, Diana Vargas, Lizzette Pierluissi, Adriana Romo, Laura Castellano, and Aurora Luna.
Senior Brass Buttons: President Bede Leyendecker, Celia Ramirez, Ninfa de la Garza, Zulema Gonzalez, Martha Bruni, Clara Garcia, Brenda Chandarlis, Linda Chandarlis, Irma Benavides, Geraldine Gonzalez, Maria Elena Galindo, Emilie Dodier, Alma Leal, and Brunilda Ponce.
Maria Elena Galindo was elected Homecoming Queen for the Class of 1978. Her court consisted of Letti Zuniga, Linda Henry, Dora Chapa and Barbara Arciniega.
Linda Henry was elected as Football Sweetheart. Her court consisted of Kelly Contreras, Barbara Arciniega, Mary Margaret Melendez, and Marta Pena.
Senior Favorites:
Most Popular: Letti Zuniga and Memo Martinez
Most Likely to Succeed: Carlos Lopez and Elsa Castro
Most School Spirited: Randy Whittaker and Ana Laura Lopez
Most Athletic: Brenda Virjan and Mike Luna
Most Studious: Danny Sanchez and Celeste Jackson
Most Handsome: Kenny Hickle
Most Beautiful: Melissa Barrera and Linda Henry
Best All Around: Ana Laura Lopez and Memo Martinez
Friendliest: Ninfa de La Garza, Maria Villarreal, and Gilbert Barrera
Band Sweeteart: Ana Laura Lopez
Sports Queen: Nelda Trevino
Most Courteous: Bede Leyendecker and Lazaro Ferdin
Wittiest: Isabel Shaver and Zeke Rodriguez
1st Runner up in Miss Laredo Pageant: Angie Zuniga
Senior Class Officers – Class of 1978
President – Memo Martinez
Vice President – Carlos Lopez
Treasurer – Alisa Garcia
Secretary – Maria Elena Galindo
Sgt. At Arms – Geraldine Gonzalez
Reporter – Letty Martinez
Historian – Belinda Trevino
Parliamentarian – Elena Mendez
Prom King and Queen: Kenny Hickle and Letti Zuniga
Valedictorian: Elsa Castro
Top 50 Hits in 1978
1. Shadow Dancing, Andy Gibb2. Night Fever, Bee Gees3. You Light Up My Life, Debby Boone4. Stayin' Alive, Bee Gees5. Kiss You All Over, Exile6. How Deep Is Your Love, Bee Gees7. Baby Come Back, Player8. (Love Is) Thicker Than Water, Andy Gibb9. Boogie Oogie Oogie, A Taste Of Honey10. Three Times A Lady, Commodores11. Grease, Frankie Valli12. I Go Crazy, Paul Davis13. You're The One That I Want, John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John 14. Emotion, Samantha Sang15. Lay Down Sally, Eric Clapton16. Miss You, Rolling Stones17. Just The Way You Are, Billy Joel18. With A Little Luck, Wings19. If I Can't Have You, Yvonne Elliman20. Dance, Dance, Dance (Yowsah, Yowsah, Yowsah), Chic21. Feels So Good, Chuck Mangione22. Hot Child In The City, Nick Gilder23. Love Is Like Oxygen, Sweet24. It's A Heartache, Bonnie Tyler25. We Are The Champions/We Will Rock You, Queen26. Baker Street, Gerry Rafferty27. Can't Smile Without You, Barry Manilow28. Too Much, Too Little, Too Late, Johnny Mathis and Deniece Williams 29. Dance With Me, Peter Brown30. Two Out Of Three Ain't Bad, Meat Loaf31. Jack And Jill, Raydio32. Take A Chance On Me, Abba33. Sometimes When We Touch, Dan Hill34. Last Dance, Donna Summer35. Hopelessly Devoted To You, Olivia Newton-John36. Hot Blooded, Foreigner37. You're In My Heart, Rod Stewart38. The Closer I Get To You, Roberta Flack and Donny Hathaway39. Dust In The Wind, Kansas40. Magnet And Steel, Walter Egan41. Short People, Randy Newman42. Use Ta Be My Girl, O'Jays43. Our Love, Natalie Cole44. Love Will Find A Way, Pablo Cruise45. An Everlasting Love, Andy Gibb46. Love Is In The Air, John Paul Young47. Goodbye Girl, David Gates48. Slip Slidin' Away, Paul Simon49. The Groove Line, Heatwave50. Thunder Island, Jay Ferguson
Top TV Shows in 1978
1. Laverne & Shirley
2. Three’s Company
3. Mork and Mindy
4. Happy Days
5. The Ropers
6. What’s Happening
7. Alice
8. MASH
9. All in the Family
10.Taxi
11. 60 Minutes
12. Charlie’s Angels
13. Angie
14. Alice
15. WKRP in Cincinnati
16. Soap
17. Eight is Enough
18. Barney Miller
Our Junior Year at Nixon High School
Our junior year (1976-1977) was getting us closer to graduation but we still wanted to savor the experience of being in high school. For some reason during that era we all wanted to grow up fast and move into the adult world. It is a different mindset of today where everyone wants to stay young forever.
Nevertheless, we now felt like veterans since we were no longer the “newbies” at the main campus. The football team was led by Luis “Peaches” Gonzalez and new quarterback, Sophomore Gary Agent. Other Seniors were Jesus De la Garza, Pablo Ramos, Omar Juarez, and Ralph Stevens. The team ended with a 4-6 record.
The Mustang Senior Cheerleaders (Class of ’77) were: Head Cheerleader Mari Bazan, Belinda Mendez, Cindy Lozano, Ginny Ortegon, and Melba Sanchez. Our Junior Cheerleaders (Class of ’78) were Mary Margaret Melendez and Linda Henry. The Sophomore Cheerleaders (Class of ’79) were Deanna Flores and Laura Rangel.
Class Favorites for Class of ’78: Richard Barton and Letti Zuniga
Homecoming Queen for Class of ’77: Jan Hunter
Top 25 Hits for 1977
1. Tonight's The Night, Rod Stewart 2. I Just Want To Be Your Everything, Andy Gibb3. Best Of My Love, Emotions4. Love Theme From "A Star Is Born", Barbra Streisand5. Angel In Your Arms, Hot6. I Like Dreamin', Kenny Nolan7. Don't Leave Me This Way, Thelma Houston8. (Your Love Has Lifted Me) Higher And Higher, Rita Coolidge9. Undercover Angel, Alan O'Day10. Torn Between Two Lovers, Mary MacGregor11. I'm Your Boogie Man, K.C. and The Sunshine Band12. Dancing Queen, Abba13. You Make Me Feel Like Dancing, Leo Sayer14. Margaritaville, Jimmy Buffet15. Telephone Line, Electric Light Orchestra16. Whatcha Gonna Do?, Pablo Cruise17. Do You Wanna Make Love, Peter McCann18. Sir Duke, Stevie Wonder19. Hotel California, Eagles20. Got To Give It Up, Pt. 1, Marvin Gaye21. Theme From "Rocky" (Gonna Fly Now), Bill Conti22. Southern Nights, Glen Campbell23. Rich Girl, Daryl Hall and John Oates24. When I Need You, Leo Sayer25. Hot Line, Sylvers
Top 10 TV Shows for 1977
1.. Laverne & Shirley
2. Happy Days
3. Three’s Company
4. 60 Minutes
5. Charlie’s Angels
6. All in the Family
7. Little House on the Prairie
8. Alice
9. MASH
10. One Day at a Time
Nevertheless, we now felt like veterans since we were no longer the “newbies” at the main campus. The football team was led by Luis “Peaches” Gonzalez and new quarterback, Sophomore Gary Agent. Other Seniors were Jesus De la Garza, Pablo Ramos, Omar Juarez, and Ralph Stevens. The team ended with a 4-6 record.
The Mustang Senior Cheerleaders (Class of ’77) were: Head Cheerleader Mari Bazan, Belinda Mendez, Cindy Lozano, Ginny Ortegon, and Melba Sanchez. Our Junior Cheerleaders (Class of ’78) were Mary Margaret Melendez and Linda Henry. The Sophomore Cheerleaders (Class of ’79) were Deanna Flores and Laura Rangel.
Class Favorites for Class of ’78: Richard Barton and Letti Zuniga
Homecoming Queen for Class of ’77: Jan Hunter
Top 25 Hits for 1977
1. Tonight's The Night, Rod Stewart 2. I Just Want To Be Your Everything, Andy Gibb3. Best Of My Love, Emotions4. Love Theme From "A Star Is Born", Barbra Streisand5. Angel In Your Arms, Hot6. I Like Dreamin', Kenny Nolan7. Don't Leave Me This Way, Thelma Houston8. (Your Love Has Lifted Me) Higher And Higher, Rita Coolidge9. Undercover Angel, Alan O'Day10. Torn Between Two Lovers, Mary MacGregor11. I'm Your Boogie Man, K.C. and The Sunshine Band12. Dancing Queen, Abba13. You Make Me Feel Like Dancing, Leo Sayer14. Margaritaville, Jimmy Buffet15. Telephone Line, Electric Light Orchestra16. Whatcha Gonna Do?, Pablo Cruise17. Do You Wanna Make Love, Peter McCann18. Sir Duke, Stevie Wonder19. Hotel California, Eagles20. Got To Give It Up, Pt. 1, Marvin Gaye21. Theme From "Rocky" (Gonna Fly Now), Bill Conti22. Southern Nights, Glen Campbell23. Rich Girl, Daryl Hall and John Oates24. When I Need You, Leo Sayer25. Hot Line, Sylvers
Top 10 TV Shows for 1977
1.. Laverne & Shirley
2. Happy Days
3. Three’s Company
4. 60 Minutes
5. Charlie’s Angels
6. All in the Family
7. Little House on the Prairie
8. Alice
9. MASH
10. One Day at a Time
Our Sophomore Year at Nixon High School
In the fall of 1975 we finally made our way into the main Nixon High School campus and we were delighted to be with the juniors (Class of 77) and seniors (Class of 1976). There was a different feel about being in the main campus since we were now a part of the high school scene. The excitement of the new school year was also enhanced since the country was celebrating its bicentennial celebration – 200 years (1776-1976). There was a patriotic feeling all over and it felt good to be an American. Gerald Ford was the nation’s President.
We attended our first pep-rally in the main campus and it was a terrific feeling. The football team was led by Seniors Robert Laurel, Richard Alvarado, Victor Astorga, Danny Gonzalez, Javier Granados, Abiel Gutierrez, Ernie Hale, Cory Holbrooks, and Jorge Lopez. The coaches were Reese, Trevino, and Boubel.
The Mustang Senior Cheerleaders (Class of ’76) were: Head Cheerleader Alma Buitron, Dee Dee Lozano, Cynthia Santos, Priscilla Keene, and Katie Pyle. The Junior Cheerleaders (Class of ’77) were Mari Bazan and Cindy Lozano and the Sophomore Cheerleaders (Class of ’78) were Marta Pena and Mary Margaret Melendez.
The Sophomore Class Officers were:
President – Bubba Jones, Vice President – Eddie Pina, Secretary – Maria Elena Galindo, Treasurer – Tita Longoria, Reporter – Rosa De Llano, Parliamentarian – Dora Chapa, Sergeant-at-Arms - Sarita Velasquez and Memo Martinez
Class of ’78 Favorites: Angie Zuniga and Mario Sanchez
Homecoming Queen for Class of 1976: Alma Buitron
Top Ten TV Shows1975 - 76
1. All in the Family 2. Laverne & Shirley 3. Rich Man Poor Man 4. Maude 5. Bionic Woman 6. Phyllis7. Six Million Dollar Man 8. Sanford and Son 9. Rhoda 10. Happy Days
Top 25 Hits in 1976
1. Silly Love Songs, Paul McCartney and Wings2. Don't Go Breaking My Heart, Elton John and Kiki Dee3. Disco Lady, Johnnie Taylor4. December, 1963 (Oh, What A Night), Four Seasons5. Play That Funky Music, Wild Cherry6. Kiss And Say Goodbye, Manhattans7. Love Machine (Part 1), The Miracles8. 50 Ways To Leave Your Lover, Paul Simon9. Love Is Alive, Gary Wright10. A Fifth Of Beethoven, Walter Murphy and The Big Apple Band11. Sara Smile, Daryl Hall and John Oates12. Afternoon Delight, Starland Vocal Band13. I Write The Songs, Barry Manilow14. Fly, Robin, Fly, Silver Convention15. Love Hangover, Diana Ross16. Get Close, Seals and Crofts17. More, More, More, Andrea True Connection18. Bohemian Rhapsody, Queen19. Misty Blue, Dorothy Moore20. Boogie Fever, Sylvers21. I'd Really Love To See You Tonight, England Dan and John Ford Coley 22. You Sexy Thing, Hot Chocolate23. Love Hurts, Nazareth24. Get Up And Boogie, Silver Convention25. Take It To The Limit, Eagles
We attended our first pep-rally in the main campus and it was a terrific feeling. The football team was led by Seniors Robert Laurel, Richard Alvarado, Victor Astorga, Danny Gonzalez, Javier Granados, Abiel Gutierrez, Ernie Hale, Cory Holbrooks, and Jorge Lopez. The coaches were Reese, Trevino, and Boubel.
The Mustang Senior Cheerleaders (Class of ’76) were: Head Cheerleader Alma Buitron, Dee Dee Lozano, Cynthia Santos, Priscilla Keene, and Katie Pyle. The Junior Cheerleaders (Class of ’77) were Mari Bazan and Cindy Lozano and the Sophomore Cheerleaders (Class of ’78) were Marta Pena and Mary Margaret Melendez.
The Sophomore Class Officers were:
President – Bubba Jones, Vice President – Eddie Pina, Secretary – Maria Elena Galindo, Treasurer – Tita Longoria, Reporter – Rosa De Llano, Parliamentarian – Dora Chapa, Sergeant-at-Arms - Sarita Velasquez and Memo Martinez
Class of ’78 Favorites: Angie Zuniga and Mario Sanchez
Homecoming Queen for Class of 1976: Alma Buitron
Top Ten TV Shows1975 - 76
1. All in the Family 2. Laverne & Shirley 3. Rich Man Poor Man 4. Maude 5. Bionic Woman 6. Phyllis7. Six Million Dollar Man 8. Sanford and Son 9. Rhoda 10. Happy Days
Top 25 Hits in 1976
1. Silly Love Songs, Paul McCartney and Wings2. Don't Go Breaking My Heart, Elton John and Kiki Dee3. Disco Lady, Johnnie Taylor4. December, 1963 (Oh, What A Night), Four Seasons5. Play That Funky Music, Wild Cherry6. Kiss And Say Goodbye, Manhattans7. Love Machine (Part 1), The Miracles8. 50 Ways To Leave Your Lover, Paul Simon9. Love Is Alive, Gary Wright10. A Fifth Of Beethoven, Walter Murphy and The Big Apple Band11. Sara Smile, Daryl Hall and John Oates12. Afternoon Delight, Starland Vocal Band13. I Write The Songs, Barry Manilow14. Fly, Robin, Fly, Silver Convention15. Love Hangover, Diana Ross16. Get Close, Seals and Crofts17. More, More, More, Andrea True Connection18. Bohemian Rhapsody, Queen19. Misty Blue, Dorothy Moore20. Boogie Fever, Sylvers21. I'd Really Love To See You Tonight, England Dan and John Ford Coley 22. You Sexy Thing, Hot Chocolate23. Love Hurts, Nazareth24. Get Up And Boogie, Silver Convention25. Take It To The Limit, Eagles
Our Freshman Year at the new Nixon Annex
In the fall of 1974 our freshman year saw a radical change as those that were active and popular in Lamar took a back seat, while others assumed new roles. We were the first freshman class to be housed at the Nixon Annex (formerly St. Joseph’s Academy – an all boy school). It seems that there were now more students at the main Nixon campus and they could not accommodate the new freshman class of more than 500 students. The annex took a whole new personality of its own as if we were a completely separate school.
Many of the former football players from Lamar joined the freshman team and they won several games that year. They would stay in the history books as the first football team of the Nixon Annex.
Many girls joined the school’s drill team the Golden Spurs and were known as the Freshmen Spurs. Interestingly, many of the girls that were Prancers did not join the Spurs. The cheerleaders chosen that year would also stay in the history books as the first cheerleaders for the Annex: Head Cheerleader Marta Pena, Shawn Young, Mary Margaret Melendez, Barbara Arciniega, and Diana Vargas.
The gymnastics team consisted of Angie Zuniga, Linda Henry, Cindy Lira and Mary Margaret Melendez.
The class president was Jeannie Mendez and Elsa Castro was the President of the Annex Student Council.
Voted as Freshman Favorites: Angie Zuniga and Beto Aradillas
At the end of the year there were cheerleader tryouts for the two girls who would represent the Class of '78 at the main campus. Marta Pena and Mary Margaret Melendez were the two lucky ones elected by popular votes.
Top Ten TV Shows 1974 - 75
1. All in the Family 2. Sanford and Son 3. Chico and the Man 4. Jeffersons 5. MASH 6. Rhoda 7. The Waltons 8. Good Times 9. Maude 10. Hawaii Five-0
The Top Songs in 1974-75
1. Love Will Keep Us Together, The Captain and Tennille2. Rhinestone Cowboy, Glen Campbell3. Philadelphia Freedom, Elton John4. Before The Next Teardrop Falls, Freddy Fender5. My Eyes Adored You, Frankie Valli6. Shining Star, Earth, Wind and Fire7. Fame, David Bowie8. Laughter In The Rain, Neil Sedaka9. One Of These Nights, Eagles10. Thank God I'm A Country Boy, John Denver11. Jive Talkin', Bee Gees12. Best Of My Love, Eagles13. Lovin' You, Minnie Riperton14. Kung Fu Fighting, Carl Douglas15. Black Water, Doobie Brothers16. Ballroom Blitz, Sweet17. (Hey Won't You Play) Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song, B.J. Thomas18. He Don't Love You (Like I Love You), Tony Orlando and Dawn19. At Seventeen, Janis Ian20. Pick Up The Pieces, Average White Band21. The Hustle, Van McCoy and The Soul City Symphony22. Lady Marmalade, Labelle23. Why Can't We Be Friends?, War24. Love Wont Let Me Wait, Major Harris25. Boogie On Reggae Woman, Stevie Wonder
Many of the former football players from Lamar joined the freshman team and they won several games that year. They would stay in the history books as the first football team of the Nixon Annex.
Many girls joined the school’s drill team the Golden Spurs and were known as the Freshmen Spurs. Interestingly, many of the girls that were Prancers did not join the Spurs. The cheerleaders chosen that year would also stay in the history books as the first cheerleaders for the Annex: Head Cheerleader Marta Pena, Shawn Young, Mary Margaret Melendez, Barbara Arciniega, and Diana Vargas.
The gymnastics team consisted of Angie Zuniga, Linda Henry, Cindy Lira and Mary Margaret Melendez.
The class president was Jeannie Mendez and Elsa Castro was the President of the Annex Student Council.
Voted as Freshman Favorites: Angie Zuniga and Beto Aradillas
At the end of the year there were cheerleader tryouts for the two girls who would represent the Class of '78 at the main campus. Marta Pena and Mary Margaret Melendez were the two lucky ones elected by popular votes.
Top Ten TV Shows 1974 - 75
1. All in the Family 2. Sanford and Son 3. Chico and the Man 4. Jeffersons 5. MASH 6. Rhoda 7. The Waltons 8. Good Times 9. Maude 10. Hawaii Five-0
The Top Songs in 1974-75
1. Love Will Keep Us Together, The Captain and Tennille2. Rhinestone Cowboy, Glen Campbell3. Philadelphia Freedom, Elton John4. Before The Next Teardrop Falls, Freddy Fender5. My Eyes Adored You, Frankie Valli6. Shining Star, Earth, Wind and Fire7. Fame, David Bowie8. Laughter In The Rain, Neil Sedaka9. One Of These Nights, Eagles10. Thank God I'm A Country Boy, John Denver11. Jive Talkin', Bee Gees12. Best Of My Love, Eagles13. Lovin' You, Minnie Riperton14. Kung Fu Fighting, Carl Douglas15. Black Water, Doobie Brothers16. Ballroom Blitz, Sweet17. (Hey Won't You Play) Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song, B.J. Thomas18. He Don't Love You (Like I Love You), Tony Orlando and Dawn19. At Seventeen, Janis Ian20. Pick Up The Pieces, Average White Band21. The Hustle, Van McCoy and The Soul City Symphony22. Lady Marmalade, Labelle23. Why Can't We Be Friends?, War24. Love Wont Let Me Wait, Major Harris25. Boogie On Reggae Woman, Stevie Wonder
Thursday, May 29, 2008
The Class of 1978 at Lamar Junior High School
It's really incredible to believe that it has been 30 years since the Class of 1978 graduated from J.W. Nixon High School. It was May 25, 1978 when we all walked up that stage to receive our diplomas. Our parents and families sat in the seats of the Laredo Civic Center and watched with pride. We were a mighty class like no other before us, and that evening was not an ending, rather it was the beginning of the rest of our lives. We would make an everlasting impact not only in our school, but in many companies across the nation after our graduation. Many of us are starting to reminisce on this special time in our life since we are now in our late forties and cannot believe how fast life has gone by.
SEVENTH GRADE:
The history of Nixon’s class of 1978 begins in the fall of 1972 at Lamar Junior High School in Laredo, TX. (now known as Lamar Middle School). This is when seventh graders from Laredo’s different schools gathered for the first time to form this special class. They came from the elementary schools of Ryan, Milton, Buenos Aires, Santo Nino, Daiches, Alma Pierce, Mary Help of Christians and others. Little did they know that they would be a history-making class because of significant events in their school years and then after graduation many would go on to attain success in their chosen careers. The mayor at the time was J.C. Martin, Jr. and Richard Nixon defeated George McGovern in the November elections and was re-elected as President of the United States for a second term.
One of the new things the seventh graders had to get used to was that football was the school’s main sport and the school’s pride depended on their winning record. The Lamar Lions were and are still the school’s mascot. The school’s colors were green and white. Many of the young guys tried out for the football team and those selected considered themselves proud since football is the king of sports in Texas.
Along with this many of the young girls tried out for the drill team – the Prancers – and they were the prettiest and most popular girls in school. The most coveted positions amongst these girls was to be elected as one of the cheerleaders. The lucky three girls who were elected by popular votes were Angie Zuniga, Marta Pena, and Linda Henry. A cute girl by the name of Rosa de Llano was chosen as the mascot and she wore the lucky Lion costume.
Others joined the band and other groups the school had like the Health Club, the choir, the Art Club, FHA, and VOCT,
That year the eighth grade football team won against rival Christen and the school was full of pride.
The 25 most popular songs that year were:
1. The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face, Roberta Flack2. Alone Again (Naturally), Gilbert O'Sullivan3. American Pie, Don McLean4. Without You, Nilsson5. Candy Man, Sammy Davis Jr.6. I Gotcha, Joe Tex7. Lean On Me, Bill Withers8. Baby Don't Get Hooked On Me, Mac Davis9. Brand New Key, Melanie10. Daddy Dont You Walk So Fast, Wayne Newton11. Let's Stay Together, Al Green12. Brandy (You're A Fine Girl), Looking Glass13. Oh Girl, Chi-Lites14. Nice To Be With You, Gallery15. My Ding-A-Ling, Chuck Berry16. If Loving You Is Wrong I Don't Want To Be Right, Luther Ingram17. Heart Of Gold, Neil Young18. Betcha By Golly, Wow, Stylistics19. I'll Take You There, Staple Singers20. Ben, Michael Jackson21. The Lion Sleeps Tonight, Robert John22. Outa-space, Billy Preston23. Slippin' Into Darkness, War24. Long Cool Woman (In A Black Dress), Hollies25. How Do You Do, Mouth and MacNeal27. Song Sung Blue, Neil Diamond28. A Horse With No Name, America
The history of Nixon’s class of 1978 begins in the fall of 1972 at Lamar Junior High School in Laredo, TX. (now known as Lamar Middle School). This is when seventh graders from Laredo’s different schools gathered for the first time to form this special class. They came from the elementary schools of Ryan, Milton, Buenos Aires, Santo Nino, Daiches, Alma Pierce, Mary Help of Christians and others. Little did they know that they would be a history-making class because of significant events in their school years and then after graduation many would go on to attain success in their chosen careers. The mayor at the time was J.C. Martin, Jr. and Richard Nixon defeated George McGovern in the November elections and was re-elected as President of the United States for a second term.
One of the new things the seventh graders had to get used to was that football was the school’s main sport and the school’s pride depended on their winning record. The Lamar Lions were and are still the school’s mascot. The school’s colors were green and white. Many of the young guys tried out for the football team and those selected considered themselves proud since football is the king of sports in Texas.
Along with this many of the young girls tried out for the drill team – the Prancers – and they were the prettiest and most popular girls in school. The most coveted positions amongst these girls was to be elected as one of the cheerleaders. The lucky three girls who were elected by popular votes were Angie Zuniga, Marta Pena, and Linda Henry. A cute girl by the name of Rosa de Llano was chosen as the mascot and she wore the lucky Lion costume.
Others joined the band and other groups the school had like the Health Club, the choir, the Art Club, FHA, and VOCT,
That year the eighth grade football team won against rival Christen and the school was full of pride.
The 25 most popular songs that year were:
1. The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face, Roberta Flack2. Alone Again (Naturally), Gilbert O'Sullivan3. American Pie, Don McLean4. Without You, Nilsson5. Candy Man, Sammy Davis Jr.6. I Gotcha, Joe Tex7. Lean On Me, Bill Withers8. Baby Don't Get Hooked On Me, Mac Davis9. Brand New Key, Melanie10. Daddy Dont You Walk So Fast, Wayne Newton11. Let's Stay Together, Al Green12. Brandy (You're A Fine Girl), Looking Glass13. Oh Girl, Chi-Lites14. Nice To Be With You, Gallery15. My Ding-A-Ling, Chuck Berry16. If Loving You Is Wrong I Don't Want To Be Right, Luther Ingram17. Heart Of Gold, Neil Young18. Betcha By Golly, Wow, Stylistics19. I'll Take You There, Staple Singers20. Ben, Michael Jackson21. The Lion Sleeps Tonight, Robert John22. Outa-space, Billy Preston23. Slippin' Into Darkness, War24. Long Cool Woman (In A Black Dress), Hollies25. How Do You Do, Mouth and MacNeal27. Song Sung Blue, Neil Diamond28. A Horse With No Name, America
Top 20 TV Shows 1972 - 73
1. All in the Family 2. Sanford and Son 3. Hawaii-Five-O 4. Maude 5. Bridget Loves Bernie 6. NBC Mystery Movie 7. Mary Tyler Moore 8. Gunsmoke 9. Disney 10. Ironside 11. Adam-1212. Flip Wilson Show13. Marcus Welby, M.D.14. Cannon15. Here's Lucy16. Bob Newhart Show17. ABC Tuesday Movie of the Week18. NFL Monday Night Football19. Partridge Family20. The Waltons
The school’s principal was Mr. Castro whose daughter Elsa would be known as the smartest student in our class and eventually would become the class’s valedictorian.
EIGTH GRADE:
The class of ‘78 eighth grade year at Lamar would stay in the school’s history as one of its best. The football team consisted of the White team and the Green team. They both had eight games during the season and the Green team ended undefeated with a 8-0 record while the White team ended with a 7-1 record. The coaches were Boubel, Bonugli, Ballesteros, and Flores.
Some of the football players were Bruce Batey, Jaime Rodriguez, Raymond Castro, Benito Cazares, Bobby Solis, Mike Luna, Ronald Miller, Beto Aradillas, Carlos Casso, Donny Salinas, Zeke Rodriguez, Javier Cantu, Rodolfo Duran, Eddie Aguero, George Glassford, Lazaro Ferdin, Lance Villarreal and Danny Garcia.
Angie Zuniga was the head cheerleader that year. Marta Pena and Rosa de Llano were the other eighth grade cheerleaders. The seventh grade cheerleaders were Kathy Newton and Elsa Garcia. Marty Cigarroa was the new Lion mascot. The cheerleaders won first place in the annual competition in Laredo.
The Prancers were led by Colonel Kelly Contreras, 1st Lt. Col. Pat Ruiz and 2nd Lt. Col. Sarita Velasquez. The memorable songs they performed during half time were "Long Train Running" by the Doobie Brothers; "Your Mama Don't Dance" by Loggins and Messina; and "Right Place, Wrong Time" by Doctor John.
The Prancers also won the Alethea Talent Show that year with a superb dance from the hit musical movie “Cabaret”. Kelly Contreras, Pat Ruiz, Sarita Velasquez, Angie Zuniga, Rosa de Llano, Nelda Trevino, Barbara Arciniega, Mary Margaret Melendez, Cindy Lira, Melissa Barrera, Sandra Floyd, and Jo Ann Brady won first prize that evening in a memorable performance.
Diana Vargas was crowned Homecoming Queen that year.
Elsa Castro was the President of the Student Council.
Alma Leal and Pat Valls were the editors of the school’s yearbook – El Nopal.
Manuel “Menu” Flores was the band’s Drum Major and the Majorettes were Rosa Cadena, Diana Miranda and Teresa Ruiz. The band director was Mr. Rene Menchaca.
In the Favorites category the lucky ones were:
Most Popular: Bruce Batey and Angie Zuniga
Wittiest: Zeke Rodriguez and Letti Zuniga
Most Handsome and Most Beautiful: Danny Garcia and Rosa de Llano
Most Athletic: Mike Luna and Linda Henry
CVAE Favorites: Hilda Barrera and Oscar Garza
Best All Around: Pat Valls and Elsa Castro
The Top 25 Songs in 1973 – 1974
1973
1. Tie A Yellow Ribbon 'Round The Ole Oak Tree, Tony Orlando and Dawn2. Bad Bad Leroy Brown, Jim Croce3. Killing Me Softly With His Song, Roberta Flack4. Let's Get It On, Marvin Gaye5. My Love, Paul McCartney and Wings6. Why Me, Kris Kristofferson7. Crocodile Rock, Elton John8. Will It Go Round In Circles, Billy Preston9. You're So Vain, Carly Simon10. Touch Me In The Morning, Diana Ross11. The Night The Lights Went Out In Georgia, Vicki Lawrence12. Playground In My Mind, Clint Holmes13. Brother Louie, Stories14. Delta Dawn, Helen Reddy15. Me And Mrs. Jones, Billy Paul16. Frankenstein, Edgar Winter Group17. Drift Away, Dobie Gray18. Little Willy, Sweet19. You Are The Sunshine Of My Life, Stevie Wonder20. Half Breed, Cher21. That Lady, Isley Bros.22. Pillow Talk, Sylvia23. We're An American Band, Grand Funk Railroad24. Right Place, Wrong Time, Dr. John25. Wildflower, Skylark
1974
1. The Way We Were, Barbra Streisand 2. Seasons In The Sun, Terry Jacks3. Love's Theme, Love Unlimited Orchestra4. Come And Get Your Love, Redbone5. Dancing Machine, Jackson 56. The Loco-Motion, Grand Funk Railroad7. TSOP, MFSB8. The Streak, Ray Stevens9. Bennie And The Jets, Elton John10. One Hell Of A Woman, Mac Davis11. Until You Come Back To Me (That's What I'm Gonna Do), Aretha Franklin 12. Jungle Boogie, Kool and The Gang13. Midnight At The Oasis, Maria Muldaur14. You Make Me Feel Brand New, Stylistics15. Show And Tell, Al Wilson16. Spiders And Snakes, Jim Stafford17. Rock On, David Essex18. Sunshine On My Shoulder, John Denver19. Sideshow, Blue Magic20. Hooked On A Feeling, Blue Swede21. Billy Don't Be A Hero, Bo Donaldson and The Heywoods22. Band On The Run, Paul McCartney and Wings23. The Most Beautiful Girl, Charlie Rich24. Time In A Bottle, Jim Croce25. Annie's Song, John Denver
The class of ‘78 eighth grade year at Lamar would stay in the school’s history as one of its best. The football team consisted of the White team and the Green team. They both had eight games during the season and the Green team ended undefeated with a 8-0 record while the White team ended with a 7-1 record. The coaches were Boubel, Bonugli, Ballesteros, and Flores.
Some of the football players were Bruce Batey, Jaime Rodriguez, Raymond Castro, Benito Cazares, Bobby Solis, Mike Luna, Ronald Miller, Beto Aradillas, Carlos Casso, Donny Salinas, Zeke Rodriguez, Javier Cantu, Rodolfo Duran, Eddie Aguero, George Glassford, Lazaro Ferdin, Lance Villarreal and Danny Garcia.
Angie Zuniga was the head cheerleader that year. Marta Pena and Rosa de Llano were the other eighth grade cheerleaders. The seventh grade cheerleaders were Kathy Newton and Elsa Garcia. Marty Cigarroa was the new Lion mascot. The cheerleaders won first place in the annual competition in Laredo.
The Prancers were led by Colonel Kelly Contreras, 1st Lt. Col. Pat Ruiz and 2nd Lt. Col. Sarita Velasquez. The memorable songs they performed during half time were "Long Train Running" by the Doobie Brothers; "Your Mama Don't Dance" by Loggins and Messina; and "Right Place, Wrong Time" by Doctor John.
The Prancers also won the Alethea Talent Show that year with a superb dance from the hit musical movie “Cabaret”. Kelly Contreras, Pat Ruiz, Sarita Velasquez, Angie Zuniga, Rosa de Llano, Nelda Trevino, Barbara Arciniega, Mary Margaret Melendez, Cindy Lira, Melissa Barrera, Sandra Floyd, and Jo Ann Brady won first prize that evening in a memorable performance.
Diana Vargas was crowned Homecoming Queen that year.
Elsa Castro was the President of the Student Council.
Alma Leal and Pat Valls were the editors of the school’s yearbook – El Nopal.
Manuel “Menu” Flores was the band’s Drum Major and the Majorettes were Rosa Cadena, Diana Miranda and Teresa Ruiz. The band director was Mr. Rene Menchaca.
In the Favorites category the lucky ones were:
Most Popular: Bruce Batey and Angie Zuniga
Wittiest: Zeke Rodriguez and Letti Zuniga
Most Handsome and Most Beautiful: Danny Garcia and Rosa de Llano
Most Athletic: Mike Luna and Linda Henry
CVAE Favorites: Hilda Barrera and Oscar Garza
Best All Around: Pat Valls and Elsa Castro
The Top 25 Songs in 1973 – 1974
1973
1. Tie A Yellow Ribbon 'Round The Ole Oak Tree, Tony Orlando and Dawn2. Bad Bad Leroy Brown, Jim Croce3. Killing Me Softly With His Song, Roberta Flack4. Let's Get It On, Marvin Gaye5. My Love, Paul McCartney and Wings6. Why Me, Kris Kristofferson7. Crocodile Rock, Elton John8. Will It Go Round In Circles, Billy Preston9. You're So Vain, Carly Simon10. Touch Me In The Morning, Diana Ross11. The Night The Lights Went Out In Georgia, Vicki Lawrence12. Playground In My Mind, Clint Holmes13. Brother Louie, Stories14. Delta Dawn, Helen Reddy15. Me And Mrs. Jones, Billy Paul16. Frankenstein, Edgar Winter Group17. Drift Away, Dobie Gray18. Little Willy, Sweet19. You Are The Sunshine Of My Life, Stevie Wonder20. Half Breed, Cher21. That Lady, Isley Bros.22. Pillow Talk, Sylvia23. We're An American Band, Grand Funk Railroad24. Right Place, Wrong Time, Dr. John25. Wildflower, Skylark
1974
1. The Way We Were, Barbra Streisand 2. Seasons In The Sun, Terry Jacks3. Love's Theme, Love Unlimited Orchestra4. Come And Get Your Love, Redbone5. Dancing Machine, Jackson 56. The Loco-Motion, Grand Funk Railroad7. TSOP, MFSB8. The Streak, Ray Stevens9. Bennie And The Jets, Elton John10. One Hell Of A Woman, Mac Davis11. Until You Come Back To Me (That's What I'm Gonna Do), Aretha Franklin 12. Jungle Boogie, Kool and The Gang13. Midnight At The Oasis, Maria Muldaur14. You Make Me Feel Brand New, Stylistics15. Show And Tell, Al Wilson16. Spiders And Snakes, Jim Stafford17. Rock On, David Essex18. Sunshine On My Shoulder, John Denver19. Sideshow, Blue Magic20. Hooked On A Feeling, Blue Swede21. Billy Don't Be A Hero, Bo Donaldson and The Heywoods22. Band On The Run, Paul McCartney and Wings23. The Most Beautiful Girl, Charlie Rich24. Time In A Bottle, Jim Croce25. Annie's Song, John Denver
Top Ten TV Shows 1973 - 74
1. All in the Family 2. Waltons 3. Sanford and Son 4. MASH 5. Hawaii Five-0 6. Maude 7. Kojak 8. Sonny and Cher 9. Mary Tyler Moore 10. Cannon
1. All in the Family 2. Waltons 3. Sanford and Son 4. MASH 5. Hawaii Five-0 6. Maude 7. Kojak 8. Sonny and Cher 9. Mary Tyler Moore 10. Cannon
The year was over and very memorable and we were headed off to high school. We would make history as the first freshman class to be housed at the former St. Joseph Academy, now known as the Nixon Annex.
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