Many adults have memories of high school history classes filled with endless unappealing lectures. That’s clearly not the case at Point Loma High School (PLHS). More than 450 students and proud parents gathered last week at the Bali Hai restaurant on Shelter Island for the school’s festive buffet and fifth annual History Awards Banquet. The only one of its kind in the county, the banquet’s proud creator is teacher Patrick McElhaney, who emceed the event, presenting a Cross pen, certificate and check in various amounts to more than 200 Pointer students who have become passionate about history. And how did these teens become so enthralled by events from our past? That became quickly apparent when a video was shown depicting students in virtually every type of clothing ever worn by Americans. There were colonial wigs and costumes, numerous military uniforms including Union and Confederate Civil War outfits and modern-day ROTC members, young men in derby hats and suits, and young ladies in business suits. Some were shown in outfits worn by early settlers, complete with suspenders. They were filmed giving reports, leading discussions, engaging in debates and presenting projects. One boy wore an oxygen mask during his presentation. Still others were photographed at the County Administration Building and courthouses during field trips. And there were hundreds of kids and parents shown at a recent Padres game. History at PLHS, it seems, has been made memorable and fun by a dedicated teaching staff. McElhaney himself was repeatedly cheered throughout the evening. He and his colleagues received dozens of hugs from students as they distributed awards for outstanding test scores, projects and performances — including a new Mock Trial Team that competes against other schools. McElhaney choked up several times during the presentations, including his attempt to recognize colleague Ron Moss, who recently returned to PLHS after a first-semester military deployment. McElhaney works year-round soliciting community groups and businesses to donate funds, materials and scholarships as the event has grown annually. Among major award winners were Axel Cramer, who received a City Club Award for starting an Environmental Club on the campus. His award included a $250 scholarship. The Tom Hayes Award, named for a former PLHS faculty member, went to Meghan Breadmore, Sarah Parker, Jacob Kossak and Jack Quinn. McElhaney praised each for their interest and reading efforts that extended far beyond the curriculum. Representatives of community groups including Republican and Democratic clubs, presented awards as well. The crowd included PLHS Principal Bobbie Samilson, Vice Principal Kevin Gormly and district Superintendent Bill Kowba, who identified himself as a history buff, pointing out many historical locations near the banquet site. McElhaney shared the spotlight with colleagues Vivian Love, Heather Janiak, Jamie Davenport, Cynthia Hedges, Mike Estanol, William Bowles, Ron Moss and Glenn Richard. For more information, e-mail [email protected].
