Radford High School - Oak Leaf Yearbook (Radford, VA)

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REMEMBER: REMEMBER: REMEMBER: REMEMBER: REMEMBER: CLASS HISTORY “THE ACORNS BEGIN TO GROW” In the fall of 1949, we, as seeds — 108 strong, began our minute existence in the first soil of eighth grade life at Radford High. That was the year we learned to be a part, if only an humble part, of Rad- ford High School. Here was the opportunity to meet new friends coming from different elementary schools; to change rooms and teachers each class period; to take an active part in athletics and other organizations; to join in the footrace on Sadie Hawkins’ Day and attend the dance later. We were proud to be students at Radford High! It was here that our embryos began forming into sprouts which sought the fertile soil of the first year of high school, which wculd provide food for the re- mainder of the acorns’ growth into hearty saplings. The Freshmen Year! We were really growing, but the Senior year still seem- ed far ahead. While we felt we were oriented by then and well organized as a class, we never felt a dullness of routine. Many interesting events kept us just as eager as when we started. There were pep rallies, ball games, and plays given by the Dramatics Club. Something was added to the Physical Education Program — each Friday, the boys and girls shared the gym period learning round and square dancing. We were Sophomores in 1951-52! Our growth was continuing. That was our “in-between” year! We were not lowly under-classmen (we thought), but neither were we privileged upper-classmen. But that fact did not damnen our enthusiasm or our eagerness to participate in a busy, happv schedule. This was evidenced by the fact that some of our boys were prominent on the athletic teams, and we were happy when the basketball teem won the District Cham- pionship. Two of our girls were chosen for the Cheerleader squad, and three of our boys qualified for All State Band. There were square dances where we showed we had mastered that fine art. The G. A. A. sponsored a Sweetheart Ball, which, in some cases, was all the name implies! As Juniors, we had grown into yaung trees and started our fall term with a deep- er sense of responsibility, and we thoughtfully planned our class schedules. That was our “hustling” year. We ordered class rings. On ball game nights, we yell- ed ourselves hoarse and sold hot does, coffee, and cokes. Four of the boys qualified f- ' r All State Band. Twenty-one of us were hon- ored by being chosen to attend Boys’ and Girls’ State in the summer of ’53. The big event was the Prom, which we called. “The Coronation Ball,” and at which, we honored the Seniors. Thev graciously thanked us for a wonderful evening of dancing to the music of the Southern Colonels: but we agreed among ourselves that the fun was all ours — with the excitement of the secret planning, the end- less painting of little crowns and th° big crown, and the hanging of miles and miles of crepe paper in the “Rec Hall.” In spite of all the wonderful things, our Junior year ended with a note of sadness because of the resignation of Mr. Robinson, our principal and friend of four years. In the fall of ’53 we entered Radford High with dignity, realizing that our growth in the fertile soil of home would soon be over, and that we must prepare during this last short span of time to take cur place among the mighty oaks of the land. Mr. Gibson came to us as our new principal. He came, he saw, and before very long, he conquered! The class rings arrived, and the next few days were spent in admiration of the newly ringed fingers. Another thrill was ours when the student body stood as we, the Seniors, took our rightful place in the first assembly of the year. Calling cards, and invitations were ordered; the senior play went off without a hitch, and we were honored with a gala Prom. Our last important (to us) as- sembly — Senior Assembly — brought a first note of sadnesss. The annuals were presented, and as they were passed from hand to hand for autographs, we fully realized the grand climax was only a few hours away. And then, in caps and gowns, we listened to the Baccalaureate Sermon. As we stood together to receive our diplomas, the five years at Radford High — our growth from seedling to sapling — seemed to have built a solid and enduring oak tree. Yet, we realized that with our diplomas in our hands, we would soon scatter as oak leaves over the face of the land — carrying in our hearts the memory of beloved teachers, happy days, and many, many friends. — 6 —

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HOWARD YATES DEAN PRESIDENT FLOYD BROWN SPENCER VICE-PRESIDENT PEGGY ANNE ARTHUR SECRETARY- TREASURE R. DELORES JUNE BISHOP VELMA LOUISE ANDERSON JOHN FRANCIS 0ARNARP EVERETT C6CU. ANDREWS LOIS JUANITA BAKER WILLIAM PAUL ANDREWS WILLIAM H. ASHLEY