Staff writer
Approximately 400 people attended a banquet Saturday at Centre High School to celebrate the school’s 50th anniversary. They were joined by countless others who came earlier to tour facilities and take part in class reunions.
CHS is newer than many high schools, but it is unique in the history of the state because it was one of the first new high schools to be built to consolidate students from several rural towns. It opened its doors in the fall of 1958.
Some of those who entered those doors for the first time said it was an exciting time because the student body made decisions identifying the new school, such as school colors, a school mascot, and even a new name.
Not that the memories of those smalltown schools ever fade.
When Bill Peterson of Herington, who served as master of ceremonies, announced the former schools’ mascots — Lincolnville Lions! Pilsen Eagles! Tampa Tigers! Burdick Bears! Ramona Indians! and Lost Springs Pioneers! — roars went up from various sections of the crowd.
A group of former cheerleaders led the crowd in the CHS Fight Song: “On you Cougars, On you Cougars, You’re the only one. . .”
Eugene Hicks, Jim Wyatt, and Howard Collett, three original teachers, made brief remarks.
After a roll call of classes, the crowd sang the CHS Alma Mater and enjoyed a video created by 2009 graduates Sheila Makovec and Ben Krause.
Marissa Makovec of Ramona provided the evening meal.
The next reunion is planned for 2015.