West Side High School - Lamp Yearbook (Newark, NJ)

Page 11 text:

1411 Тһе fifties were the year of the now so-called, silent generation. The students at this time were serious, co-operative and dedicated. Beneath their youthful exterior there was a surprising maturity. They look to school as the natural means toward their goals. West Side life was different radio and movies were losing footage to the television. “Uncle-Milton Berle” and “Fireside theatre” were the topic of discussion. “ГЇЇ give you a shot in the head or “ГЇЇ kill your a million times” replaced the outgoing “hubba-hub- | ba” or “Kilroy” clique. The addition of the crinoline to the long skirts gave girls a softness reminiscent of the pre-civil war period. Hair was cut short in imitation or respect to Ingrid Bergmans portrayal of Saint Joan. The roller derby became the sport to follow after a week at school. Report cards, clubs, and election of class officers were very special occasions for the students. Drivers’ education was added to the curriculum. Music was varied from Montivani and his romantic strings through calypso beat to the insanity of Rock’n Roll. Toward the latter years of the decade, America was invaded by the “beat-nik.” Alma Mater broke off here. The determined look in her eyes we know better than to pursue that subject. A smile came over Maters face. “What's to say, man? Do my West Side kinds dig me? Listen Babe, I had this scene and I groove the most.” Her answer to our stunned faces was a long laugh. She collected herself to tell the tale of her youngest graduates. “Really, the children of the sixties see, to have everyone running wild. I sit back and relax. Гуе been through too many things to think that the “mini-skirts” is going to end civilization. What’s a mini-skirt except the same thing I saw years ago. Dances? Is the Funky-broadway” etc any less crazy than the Charleston? Leave it to the young, I say. I tried to do one of their dances and was laid up for a week. Music? I wonder if any tunes give promise of dedication as “The Impossible Dream?” Twirlers This picture is typical of the twir- ler’s in the 40% Time cures all ills!

Page 13 text:

“Yes, the students of the sixties reflect the same thoughts as those years ago. They learn about themselves, study others, think, resolve to go into the world and improve it. And they do. Each class plays its part in the process of civilization. This is my reason for being, my pride and satisfaction. Soon they'll be leaving, this class of '68. Гуе worked hard and enjoyed them. Гуе done all I can. Soon they must leave their home and go on to others. Alam Mater looked tired. It was time for her summer nap. She raised her head and said, “The sixties are your years, you tell me about them.” We looked at each other hesitantly and finally some one said, “There's not too much that we can tell you that Cheerleaders you don’t already know”. You have seen over 40 graduating classes pass through your These are the girls that led the school in door-staking that first plunge into life. Perhaps without your help some of those students victory. Check the costumes out. wouldn’t have succeeded in life. This has been your story not ours; we just have the pleasure of being your fortieth graduating class. We salute and praise you for giving us the foundation needed to enter into the world. Most important of all we give you our sincere thanks. Now we come to the good old 60's, and the Me] Babies are singing. D |Р)