Earlier this century a group of PLHS alums from the Class of 1950 decided that a model lighthouse would be a great addition to the school’s stadium and also elevate student spirits.
They contributed money to a fund that eventually saw the creation of a model lighthouse that was mounted atop the corner of the school’s gymnasium facing the home football stands. The model had a working light and horn that could be sounded when the Pointers scored.
But a strong storm severely damaged the lighthouse years ago and it was taken down from its perch.
Fast forward to recent times when current PLHS football booster president Janiza Terzoli and his family took an interest in the damaged structure.
Terzoli enlisted her brother, Lawrence Virissimo, Class of 1999, to make the structure’s repair a sibling labor of love.
Last week, Virissimo transported the repaired lighthouse to the Pointer football field where it was used in the football game against Mater Dei Catholic.
The refurbished lighthouse has a new light, a pair of air horns that blast a foghorn-like sound, and a machine that sends clouds of fog tumbling out over the base. Virissimo linked all of the functions to a remote control.
A new mounting location is under discussion.
HOMECOMING WEEK ACTIVITIES
The Homecoming Dance will be held on Sept. 23 at NOVA in the Gaslamp Quarter from 7-10 p.m. Tickets are $50 or $35 with an ASB Card. All attending will be breathalyzed and searched before entering.
This week at PLHS has been ‘Spirit Week” with activities and dress-up days as follows:
Monday: Ken vs. Barbie.
Tuesday: Mathletes vs. Athletes.
Wednesday: BBQ Dad vs. Soccer Mom.
Thursday: Country vs. Country Club.
Friday: “Pink Out!”
The Homecoming football game vs. San Diego High is at 7 p.m. with a halftime presentation of cheerleaders, marching band, Homecoming Court, Alumni Walk, and class skit and dance competition.
