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2007 Distinguished Alumni Luncheon - River Oaks Country Club

Distinguished Allumni

Scholarship Recipients

Friday, May 4th, 2007, the Lamar High School Alumni Association held its annual Distinguished Alumni Luncheon at the River Oaks Country Club. Over 325 alumni and friends attended. The honorees this year included: J. Doug Pitcock, Jr., Class of 1945, owner of William Brothers Construction Co., which has built many of the freeways in Houston and bridges on the  Ship Channel and the Mississippi River, he also served on President Gerald Ford’s National Transportation Policy Study Commission, was inducted into the Hall of Fame of the Texas Good Roads Association, and honored as Engineer of the Year by the Greater Houston Chapter of the TSPE; GeeGee Kamrath Mygdal, Class of 1957, sculptor of life size bronze sculptures featured all over Texas in both private collections and public spaces such as the University of Texas, Baylor University and St. Luke’s church here in Houston; LTG Randy House, Class of 1963, three star general who has served our country in Vietnam, Korea, Kuwait, Iraq, and Washington D.C.; Bill Poland, Class of 1963, owner of Bay West Group, developer of several million square feet of buildings in the South Market area of San Francisco and the Design Center in Seattle and who serves on the board of the Charles Schwab Cup and the Emerald Bowl; and Lauren Anderson, Class of 1982, recently retired principal dancer for the Houston Ballet, and star of Don Quixote, The Nutcracker, and Cleopatra, and now in charge of the Outreach Program for the ballet.

Each year, Lamar recognizes several of its long list of alumni who have become wonderful artists, scientists, engineers, politicians, businessmen and women, and community volunteers. Although most have remained in Texas, Lamar’s 30,000+ alumni are scattered all over the United States and the world. Many have made significant contributions to their communities. This event is an attempt to bring recognition to a few of these individuals and attention to the contribution that Lamar has made to Houston and other cities. Other previously honored alumni were also present including former Governor Mark White, former and current Harris County District Attorneys, Carol Vance and Chuck Rosenthal, Carlos and Carolyn Hamilton, John Daugherty, Francie Mendenhall, Mike Willis, and Peter Roussel, who also served as MC for the event. John Daugherty Realtors and Stewart Title were the underwriters for the event.

The event also featured several groups of current students who either entertained the guests or helped with the luncheon. These included the Lamar Jazz Band, cheerleaders, Student Council representatives, Madrigal Choir, and many of the art students and their work. The many PTO volunteers made certain that everything went smoothly.

The wonderful video featuring the honorees and their friends was put together by Will LeBlanc of Casablanca Productions. The video provided a window into the history of Lamar over 40 years and brought back memories that evoked both laughter and tears.

The Alumni Association, in conjunction with the Lamar Foundation and the West University Rotary Club, also awarded seven graduating seniors with HOPE Scholarships. These scholarships are for $1000 for each student for each year they stay in college and maintain a good average. The winners this year were Jeremy Anajula, Jose Bedolla, LaShonda Bradley, Mariela Espinoza, Jarred Gibson, Julius Michael, Gilbert Salazar.

Lamar Student Receives AXA Achievement Community Scholarship

AXA Acheivment Schollarship
Shown in photo (l to r): AXA Equitable Director, T. Scott Hart; Chris' parents Marc and Jane Roberts; AXA Scholarship Recipient, Chris Roberts; Lamar Counselor, Meredith Hargrove; AXA Representative, Charles Ebbs

Congratulations to Lamar High School Class of 2007 graduate, Chris Roberts for being awarded the AXA Achievement Community Scholarship. Chris, also an Eagle Scout, has been very involved in his community of Garden Oaks helping in recycling efforts, computers on the elementary campus, beautification, child care during civic club meetings and creating a fruit orchard complete with two arbors, which was his Eagle project. Chris was an IB and Magnet student at Lamar and plans to major in business at the McCoy School of Business at Texas State University in San Marcos, where he has also received a scholarship.

Ellen Farber selected as a finalist in the 2007 "Coca-Cola Share the Dream" essay contest

Share the Dream contest finalist
Shown in photo (l to r ): Coca-Cola Share the Dream Essay Finalist, Ellen Farber and Lamar Magnet Coordinator, Patricia Price

Congratulations to Lamar High School sophomore Ellen Farber for being selected as a finalist in the 2007 "Coca-Cola Share the Dream" essay contest. Ellen, a Magnet Business Administration student at Lamar, will receive a $500 scholarship as a finalist. There were almost 2,000 essays entered from the Greater Houston Area and only 23 students advanced to the finalist category. This year's essay theme question was based on cultural diversity and how can education best teach us to respect others and recognize the richness of diversity. Ellen was honored with other Share the Dream winners on May 4th at Minute Maid Park.

Lamar High Technology Students Place 3rd in State Competition

Technology Competition Students
Shown in first photo (l to r): Lamar High School Technology Students and Winners in the 2007 Texas Technology Student Association "Outstanding School Award" 5A High School State Championship

Congratulations to the Lamar High School technology students for winning 3rd Place in the 2007 Texas Technology Student Association "Outstanding School Award" 5A High School State Championship - High Point Average, held in Waco, Texas.

Lamar Fine Arts Department Makes History

UIL trophy winners
Shown in photo (l to r ): Lamar High School Choir Officers Sawyer Sellers, James Newman, Charles Miles, Tori Garcia, Lorri Marlow, Amy Jenkins, and Austin Prather

The Lamar Choir Department set a new school record during the 2006 -2007 school year! All six of the Lamar choirs (JV Women, JV Men, Concert Women, Chorale Women, Chorale men, and Chorale) participated in the UIL Concert and Sight-reading at Grace Presbyterian Church and all six choirs made a "Sweepstakes", which is a "Superior" rating from both concert judging panels and sight-reading panels. Congratulations to all six choirs and directors Scott Houston and Gail Land for bringing home SIX UIL SWEEPSTAKES TROPHIES!

In addition, both Lamar orchestras won the UIL Sweepstakes award at the Concert and Sight-Reading contest held this spring at Alief Taylor High School. This award is also given for receiving a "Superior" rating in both events. The Lamar orchestra also won "Superior" ratings for the Outstanding Orchestra in the Class 5A category and one for the Most Outstanding Orchestra of the event. Congratulations to the Lamar orchestra and their directors, Rick Yancey, Grace Granata and Charles Tittsworth!

Lamar Volleyball team networks with KRBE personalities

Lamar Volleyball and KRBE

Members of the Lamar High School Volleyball team and Coach Alexia McWhinney joined KRBE personalities Carson and Lauren this month to promote the Lamar Volleyball “Bowling at the Palace 2007” fundraiser for the team set for May 12.

The girls introduced the “top five” songs and advertised the 2nd annual tournament to be held Saturday, May 12, from 4-6 p.m. at the Palace Bowling Lanes, 4191 Bellaire Blvd.

Teams of five bowl for $75, a fee which includes shoes, two hours of bowling, grab bags and event T-shirts. Winning teams and individual bowlers earn cash prizes for top scores. A DJ from a local radio station will provide music.

For more information about the tournament, e-mail here or call \ McWhinney at 832-498-7452.

Dark of the Moon

Dark of the Moon Cast

On Saturday, March 31, Lamar theatre students competed in the District 20-5A One-Act Play contest.  Lamar competed against 5 other HISD schools and was selected as one of two advancing plays.  Students Jacob Tice, Elizabeth (Noni) Culotta and Sawyer Sellers were recognized to the All-Star cast, and Kathy Mostajeran won a technical award for lighting.  As one of the two advancing plays, Lamar was eligible to compete in the area competition at Westside High School held in April

Lamar High School Volleyball To Host 2nd Annual Team Bowling Tournament

Even better the second time around…

Houston, TX (April 12, 2007)- The Lamar Volleyball Team and Booster Club will be hosting their second annual team bowling tournament on Saturday, May 12th. “Bowling at the Palace” will take place from 4pm-6pm at Palace Lanes (4191 Bellaire Blvd) and will feature a team cash prizes, individual prizes, free giveaways and 97.9 the Box radio personalities. The event will raise money to fund the team’s travel and uniforms for the 2007-2008 season. The $75 entry fee for a bowling team of five players includes shoe rental, lane fees and a grab bag. In addition to team registration, sponsorship opportunities are available for those wishing to support our charitable cause. Please contact RedskinVolleyball for more information.

Lamar Teacher Named HISD Central Region Special Education Teacher of the Year

Teacher of the Year

April 4, 2007 - The Houston Independent School District Central Region recently announced Nimmi Thomas from Lamar High School as the 2007 Special Education Teacher of the Year. Thomas is originally from Bombay, India and joined the Lamar teaching staff in 2002. She is currently the UIL sponsor for spelling and vocabulary and, for the second year, serves as a mentor for new teachers. Thomas, who initially started as a volunteer in the Special Education Department at Will Rogers Elementary, feels confident she made the right decision to teach. "My greatest joy is to see a student who has struggled academically all of his/her life finally succeed in the classroom. I take pride and honor in being able to help my students accomplish that. My goal in life is to continue to be a positive factor in any child’s life that comes through mine,” said Thomas.

Thomas has a Bachelor's degree in Sociology; a Master's in Social Work from the University of Bombay and completed her teaching certification from the University of St. Thomas through the HISD Alternative Certification Program. Her ultimate goal after retirement is to return to India and volunteer for various social issues close to her heart. Thomas will represent the Central Region for the HISD CEC Teacher of the Year title, and will be honored at the Central Region Banquet on May 1.

Lamar FFA Students Prepare for Annual Livestock Show and Auction

FFA

Shown in Picture

1st row l-r: Courtney Culpepper and James Crockett; 2nd row:l-r: Jeff Fastow, Nichole Avant; 3rd row: Sidney Ross, Joy Fairchild, and Beckly Long; Standing l-r:Teresa Burdick, Grant Pinkerton, Stephanie DeAngelo, Michelle Harper, Nichole Harper, Alyssa McCourt, Ariel Sklar, Melanie Crockett, and Constance Hargrave.

March 20, 2007 – The Lamar High School Future Farmers of America (FFA) are geared up to kick-off their annual Livestock Show and Auction starting with outdoor fun and food concessions open during all lunches from 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. for the students and staff on Thursday, March 29th and Friday, March 30th. The festivities continue the evening of March 30th with the Livestock Show & Judging at 4:00 p.m. on the front lawn of Lamar High School, located at 3335 Westheimer. The Silent Auction also starts on the front lawn at 10:30 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 31st, with a BBQ Luncheon at 11:30 a.m., followed by a Live Auction at 1:00 p.m.

The Lamar FFA program, under the direction of Charles Hill, currently has 55 members who compete in various FFA competitions throughout the year. FFA student Teresa Burdick won the Reserve Champion ribbon for her heifer Ms. Dynasty and FFA student Allison Dietert won the First Place ribbon for her heifer Lilly from her division in the San Antonio Livestock Show held in February. Most recently, Nicole Avant, David Bracht, Raquel Santillan, Ariel Sklar and Shane Struska, competed in the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo’s Calf Scramble and were each awarded a $1,000 certificate to purchase a registered beef heifer.  Raising and showing their heifer becomes a yearlong project as the scrambler sees to the grooming, feeding and care of the animal. The calf exhibitor returns to the Houston Livestock Show the following year for a special competition. Calf scramblers also receive a $250 bonus when they return to compete with their heifers.

Donations and volunteers are welcome. For more information about the Lamar FFA program, please contact Charles Hill at 713.522.5960 ext. 520 or email here.

Lamar High School Names 2007 Teacher of the Year

March 1, 2007 – Congratulations to Jerry Van Dusen for being named the Lamar High School 2007 Teacher of the Year. VanDusen, who attended HISD schools throughout his grade school years, began his teaching career as a physical education teacher 14 years ago in HISD at Grady Middle School, where he was also named Grady’s Teacher of the Year in 1997. In 2001, VanDusen started teaching social studies, physical education, and health at Lamar High School. As the head freshman football coach and freshman boys’ basketball coach, VanDusen is dedicated to his students both in and outside of the classroom. He is currently working toward attaining a master’s degree in Education Administration at Texas Southern University. He has been married to his wife Courtney VanDusen since 1999.

Lamar Student Receives “Distinguished Finalist” Bronze Medallion for Volunteer Service in 12th Annual National Awards Program

Distinguished Finalist Bronze Medallion for Volunteer Service Winner

February 20, 2007 – Alexander Levy, a Lamar High School International Baccalaureate Diploma Candidate and Eagle Scout with a Bronze Palm and working toward his Gold Palm, has been named one of the ten Distinguished Finalists in the 2007 Prudential Spirit of Community Awards in Texas.  As a result, Alexander will receive an engraved bronze Distinguished Finalist medallion for his outstanding volunteer work in the community.  For his volunteer project, Alexander organized a book drive and created a book cart “Patient Entertainment Solution” and library system for patients at St. Luke’s Episcopal Hospital.  He recruited friends to support his project, and then collected and sorted more than 3,500 books and other reading material for the hospital.  Alexander also raised $600 to fund his project.  As a high school senior, Alexander is an advocate for volunteerism.  “I have been volunteering weekly at St. Luke’s Episcopal hospital since November 2004.  While volunteering, I served on their 21st floor patient care unit in the Main Emergency Room and in their Cardiovascular Department.  During that time, I saw the despair and loneliness patients experienced when they did not have guests on the floor, and the anxiety patients experienced whole waiting in the Emergency Room.  Noticing the hospital had bare bookshelves, I was determined to change it,” said Alexander.  

The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards, a nationwide program that honors young people for outstanding acts of volunteerism, represents the United States largest youth recognition program based solely on volunteer service.   The awards program, now in its 12th year, is conducted by Prudential Financial in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School principals (NASSP). After public and private middle level and high schools in the country, as well as all Girl Scout councils, county 4-H organizations, American Red Cross chapters, YMCA’s and Volunteer Centers select a student or member for a Prudential Spirit of Community Award in November, more than 7,500 Local Honorees are reviewed by state-level judges, who select State Honorees and Distinguished Finalists based in criteria such as personal initiative, creativity, effort, impact and personal growth.

A Call to Lead

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February 16, 2007 - Lamar High School seniors Richard Hood and Amado Gonzalez will both fulfill their dreams to serve their country as both young men have been nominated by their congressman and appointed to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point in fall 2007. Gonzalez, a company commander in the 7th JROTC Battalion and commander of the Lamar JRTOC and commander of the Service Weapon Drill Team, credits the JROTC for teaching him the basic principles that are required to become an officer and a gentleman and states that even as a young child he knew he wanted to be an officer in the United States Army.  “My aunt raised me since my infant years because my mother passed away from cancer and father was a fallen marine from a foreign war.  I have always wanted to be a leader of the free world and West Point is the place where I will accommodate my needs for success,” Gonzalez said.  Gonzalez is no stranger to having discipline and making sacrifices.  He has worked most of his teenage years to help support himself and contribute to household expenses.  “I have been held from my teenage life because I had to initiate responsibility at an early age.  Many people ask me why I am joining the military at this time when the world is at war with Iraq and terrorism is on the rise. My response to them is that I will change the world and with the principles imbedded in me by Lamar High School and the training I will receive at West Point, I will make a difference.  Character defines me and I am a born leader,” exclaims Gonzalez. 

Richard Hood has also had to answer the why question regarding his decision to join the military.  Hood prides himself on the desire to be a part of the action.  “Whenever I hear about major events in the news, like reports on Iraq, I find myself longing to be where the action is so that I can make a positive contribution to the issue at hand,” said Hood.  Hood knows he has what it takes to endure the rigors associated with an education at West Point.  As an International Baccalaureate student at Lamar, he has learned to juggle the responsibilities of the demanding course work of college preparatory classes, family, church and community involvement.  “The classes I have taken at Lamar have offered me a sound challenge over the past four years and have instilled in me the basis of knowledge I will need in the future,” Hood says.  During Hood’s high school career at Lamar, he has participated in cross-country and track.  He credits his track coach Jerry Martinez for helping him get prepared mentally, physically and emotionally.  “Lamar has offered me many opportunities for growth before I embark on my new journey to West point and beyond.  Factor in that with my moral development through my home and church and I know I am ready for anything,” exclaimed Hood.

Lamar Hosts Chinese Exchange Students

Lamar hosts chinese exchange students.

February 16, 2007 – Lamar High School recently hosted its 8th annual Chinese Cultural Student Exchange with its Sister City School, Dalian High School No. 24 in Dalian, China. Lamar families hosted fifteen Chinese students and three teachers for nine days. While in Houston, the Chinese delegation attended classes at Lamar, visited NASA, Kemah Boardwalk, Galleria, Katy Mills Mall, City Hall, George Ranch in Richmond, museums, sported Lamar gear, shopped till they dropped and ate lots of bar-be-cue.

Lamar students interested in being a part of the Chinese student exchange and travel to China to see some of its great sites such as the Great Wall, the Forbidden City and the Emperor’s Army will have an opportunity this summer from June 5 – June 27, 2007. For additional information about this great educational opportunity, please contact coordinator Margaret Badeaux at Lamar at 713.522.5960 ext. 422 or email here.

Lamar Honors HISD School Board

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February 16, 2007 – In recognition of the annual HISD School Board Appreciation Month, Lamar High School recently hosted an appreciation luncheon for school board members Manuel Rodriguez Jr., Harvin Moore, Dianne Johnson and Natasha Kamrani. The school board members received a special treat as they were served a complete four-course meal prepared by Lamar’s culinary arts students. Music was provided by Lamar student Taylor Chen, followed by a presentation from Principal Dr. James McSwain. The Lamar Cable Television (LCT) students were also on hand to film the event and get interviews from the board members to air on the daily broadcast. Each board member received a hand painted western art print by art student Marianne Tiutan.

Lamar Student Heads to Washington

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February 15, 2007 – Lamar High School junior, Joseph Steed, has been selected to participate in the 2007 Bill Archer Student Intern Program in Washington, D.C. this spring. Joseph Steed, along with other selected juniors from each high school in the 7th Congressional District will be in Washington, D. C. March 3 – 10, 2007. The weeklong program will focus on face-to-face meetings with members of the legislative, executive and judicial branches of government and other events of special interest.

The Bill Archer Student Intern Foundation of Houston was established by U.S. Representative Bill Archer in 1971. Every year, the Foundation provides a one week internship in Washington, D. C. for one junior student in each high school in the 7th Congressional District of Texas. The purpose of the internship is to give high students an opportunity to experience an in-depth study of the federal government in operation and to encourage an understanding of a government which otherwise might seem remote and inaccessible. All costs of the intern program, including all transportation, lodging and meals will be paid by the Foundation.

Lamar Band Receives 50 First Division Medals

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February 15, 2007 - The Lamar High School Band attended the Region 23 UIL Solo & Ensemble Contest on Saturday, February 10, 2007, at Morton Ranch High School in Katy and brought home 50 first division medals.  Congratulations to all band students on their accomplishments! Receiving a medal for a Superior, First Division rating on a Solo:

Ashley Augustino, Leslie Cabrera,  Xavier Eldridge, Ashley Fusilier, Maire Gavagan, Kate Kirages, Kevin Marotzke, Blake Niccum, Grant Niccum, Jesse Oliva, Elizabeth Paradones, Jalen Patton, Katherine Sandhop, Ariel Smith, Stephanie Watson; Receiving an Excellent rating on a Solo:Earth Chariyawattanarut, Olga Galvan, Bryan Hardin, Lourdes Lopez, Hilda Torres; Receiving a medal for a Superior, First Division rating on an Ensemble: Joey Arrazolo, Ashley Augustino, Fredy Bonilla, Paul Bunch, Aaron Castro, Taylor Clem, Cameron Delgado, Allison Dietert, Xavier Eldridge, Ashley Fusilier, Olga Galvan, Maire Gavagan, Aaron Gould, Bryan Hardin, Jonathan James, Kate Kirages, Joann Lagunas, Ariana Lopez, Kevin Marotzke, Luther Mayberry, Rosa Mena, Hodari Mitchell, Blake Niccum, Grant Niccum, Jesse Oliva, Elizabeth Paradones, William Paschall, Jalen Patton, Carlos Rodriguez, Katherine Sandhop, Ariel Smith, James Sommers, Hilda Torres,  Stephanie Watson; Receiving an Excellent rating on an Ensemble: Leslie Cabrera, Deangela Guillory, Alexzandria Johnson, Rosa Mena, Travis Taube

Lamar High School Honors 66 IB Diploma Recipients

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January 17, 2007 - Lamar High School brought in the New Year with its annual International Baccaulaureate (IB) Diploma Ceremony honoring 66 recipients at The Westin Galleria Hotel on January 2, 2007.  The IB Diploma Program has earned a reputation for rigorous assessment, giving IB Diploma holders access to the world’s leading universities.  Many regard the IB Diploma as the master’s degree of high school and proof that students are well prepared for university work.   Students who score well on the IB exams earn college credit and/or placement.  Congratulations to the following recipients: Eden Amerson, Chidiogo Anyigbo, Irma Ayala, Alane Blakely, Roseanne Bodin, Megan Bogany,Christopher Boling, Thomas Browder, Sarah Bryan, Brian Bustamante, Carter Cole, Mickenzie Cross, Mary Cuclis, Zachary Cuyler,William Davidson, Kathryne DeLeon, Sean Donahue , Dione Drew, Maria Dusenbury, Caroline Echols, Brandon Englert, Noel Gonzales-Luna, Jonathan Goodson, Jordan Hale, Stephanie Harmon, Samira Irani, Alyx Jones, Matthew Kelly, Anastasia Kirages, Justin Kizer, Margaret Kulkarni, Christopher Lindee, Matthew Lowes,Jackson Massey, Nathan Miller, Annelise Musgrove, Francis Netscher,Vanessa Ng, Kathleen Nguyen, John Pavlick, Cameron Prather, Jeffrey Rachlin, Bailey Rankin, John Rassenfoss, Thomas Roinesdal, Lauren Rosin, Christopher Rouxel, Flavio Salinas, Emily Sanders,Gavin Schriver, Sarah Sparker, Alexander Squier, Laura Suttles, Elizabeth Temple, Amy Thornton, Monica Tseng, Larrisha Vaughn, Stephanie Wehrung, Logan Wexler, Juliana Wilking, Magdalena Wistuba, Brook Woldemariam, Christopher Yang, Dinara Yangirova, Jennifer Young, Zachary Zeidman

Lamar High School Hosts Annual Freshman Round-Up Part II

January 17, 2007 – Lamar High School is gearing up for next year’s freshman students as they will host the annual Freshman Round-Up Part II on Tuesday, January 30, 2007 at 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. on the school’s campus, located at 3325 Westheimer. Lamar offers over 80 clubs and organizations, and there’s something for everyone’s interest at Lamar!

All incoming 2007 freshman and parents are invited to learn about campus life, fine arts and athletic programs, as well as club and organization membership opportunities. Attendees will get a first-hand look at all of the activities that await them Fall 2007, as current Lamar students will be on hand to perform and discuss how to get involved at Lamar!

For additional information, please contact the Main Office at 713. 522. 5960.

Lamar High School Band to Participate in the 2007 Texas Inaugural Parade

January 5, 2007 - By special request from Lt. Governor David Dewhurst, a Lamar alumnus (Class of 1963), and Governor Rick Perry, the 2007 Inaugural Committee extended an invitation to Lamar High School to participate in the 2007 Texas Inaugural Parade in Austin, Texas on January 16, 2007. Lamar will be the only high school marching band participating in the parade, along with 17 other show stopping organizations such as the Texas National Guard, posted at Camp Mabry in Austin; the Ross Volunteer Company from Texas A&M University and the Texas A&M University's Fightin' Texas Aggie Band, just to name a few. Also participating in the parade will be the Lamar Drill Team JROTC and Cheerleaders. The 2007 Inaugural parade is open to the public and will begin at noon at the Congress Avenue Bridge and conclude at the State Capitol in front of the Governor and Lieutenant Governor's reviewing stand.

The theme of the 2007 Texas Inaugural, “Texas: Imagine the Possibilities”, will be incorporated throughout the day’s festivities.

Lamar High students send goodwill messages and packages to troops

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November 30, 2006—Students at HISD’s Lamar High School will show their holiday spirit by sending supplies and supportive messages Friday, December 1, to soldiers stationed overseas.  Crews of young people will diligently work on the effort from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Lamar High School, 3325 Westheimer (77098).  “It’s the note that’s that most important,” said Lamar student Lauren Tristan. “All of our soldiers need to know that we love and appreciate what they are doing for our nation.”  For the past three weeks, students in the campus’ international baccalaureate program have been preparing for the community project—coined “Operation Interdependence—by collecting magazines, personal hygiene products, videos, games, and other items for the troops.  At first, the students planned to fill 50 boxes, each containing 50 packages, for a total of 2,500 packages to be shipped. Not only did they fill the quota, but they surpassed it by collecting 3,400 packages by Thursday, November 30. The students expect to fill the same number of packages on Friday, December 1.  Details about “Operation Interdependence” may be found online at www.oidelivers.org.

(For more information, contact the HISD Press Office at 713-556-6393.)

Lamar Choir selected to perform in the prestigious All-Region Choir

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November 27, 2006 - Congratulations to the Lamar Choir for being selected to perform in the prestigious Region 23 All-Region Choir held on November 10 and 11 at Grace Presbyterian Church.  The choir participants include the “Treble Choir” CAROLINE TUDOR, SHELBY SMOLEN, ANASTASIA THOMAS, APRIL SHERMAN, EVA AGOULNIK, APRIL JONES; "Mixed Choir" include MEGAN DUNCAN, AMANDA WILLIAMS, HILLARY HAZEL, DANIEL EISNER, KINGSLEY MCGOWAN; "Pre-Area" participants include SAWYER SELLERS, SIMON TICE, AMY JENKINS, JAMES NEWMAN, CHRISTINO PEREZ, CHARLES MILES, DEVIN WALKER, TORI GARCIA, KORTNEY JOHNSON, GARRETT VAUGHNER, JARRED GIBSON

The Lamar Choir is under the direction of Scott Houston.

Lamar Marketing Students Hold 3rd Annual Toy Drive

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November 27, 2006 - The Lamar High School Marketing Career Prep Co-Op class sponsored its 3rd Annual Toy Drive this year and collected over 200 plus toys for underprivileged children. The items will be donated to the St. John's Academy Downtown on December 1st, 2006. marketing class formed a company called the Helping Hand Foundation, which consists of a CEO (Lashonda Bradley), a Vice President (Arielle Cook), a Marketing team (led by, Brittany Montgomery), Manufacturing team (led by, Dawnyhell Mosley), Logistics team (led by, Morgan Thornton), and Public Relations team (led by, Walter Moser). In addition, the Helping Hand Foundations received two sponsors this year: AAA Demolishing and Washington Mutual (Houston-Uptown Financial Center

"I am very pleased with the progress of this community and service project. The Class of 2007 Marketing Co-Op students are amazing. There is so much talent within each of them. These students display a high degree of integrity, responsibility, and ambition towards this project and I am very pleased to have this position to interact and teach these students how to work as a team," said TaRon Jones, Marketing Career Prep Co-Op teacher.

Lamar Band Ready To Deliver Yuletide Cheer

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November 30, 2006 - Lamar High School Band presents “Living Christmas Cards”. On Friday December 15th or Saturday December 16th from 6-9 pm a group of LHS band students will play Christmas Carols at your business, company party, neighbor’s house or family get-together…. for a small donation of course. For information or to schedule an appointment, call Anne at 713-644-6319 or email here.

Thanks for supporting the Lamar High School Band!!

Lamar Teacher Wins 2006 NCTE Leadership Development Award

Anne Bayerkohler of Houston, Texas, won the NCTE Leadership Development Award supported by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) and Prentice Hall-Pearson Education. The program, which was developed to nurture new leaders, provides early career teachers with $500 to attend the NCTE Annual Convention in Nashville, Tennessee, November 16-2 1,2006.

Bayerkohler, a teacher at Lamar High School in Houston, was nominated by the Texas Council of Teachers of English Language Arts, an affiliate of NCTE. Bayerkohler has never attended an NCTE convention and has met the following criteria: one to five years of teaching experience, demonstrated capacity for professional leadership, and willingness to serve the affiliate during the 2006-2007 academic year. Bayerkohler, along with other winners, will be honored at the Affiliate Roundtable Breakfast at the Convention on Sunday, November 19.

As a stipulation of the award, Bayerkohler and the Texas Council of Teachers of English Language Arts negotiated a term of service to the affiliate which includes duties such as presenting at an affiliate conference, writing an article for an affiliate publication, membership on the affiliate board, assisting a board member, and/or assisting with a workshop for new teachers.

The National Council of Teachers of English (iVCTE), with 50,000 individual and institutional members worldwide, is dedicated to improving the teaching and learning of English and the language arts at all levels of education. For more information, please visit http://www.ncte.org.

Lamar High School Honors National Scholars

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November 9, 2006 - Lamar High School recently honored 48 National Program scholars at its annual Scholars' Breakfast held at The Houston City Club. The National Merit Scholarship Program semifinalists include William Collie, Kristine Greive, Richard Hood, Zachary Lebovitz, James Newman, Anhvu Nguyen, Grant Niccum, Jackson Omaley, Joel Rajan, and Zachary Vanbrunt. National Merit Program Commended students are David Abrookin, Brett Blieden, Melanie Cruthirds, Christina Culotta, Thomas Echols, Grace Fletcher,Kevin Frederick, Yao Fu, Erin Holt, Michael Hurta, Ali Irani, Anna Jackura, Fay Kelly, Andrew Kennedy, Jan-Dirk Kieback, Rebecca Long, Yaniv Maman, Kristina Meyer, Scarlet Neath, Antonio Quintanilla, Clara Reed, Leah Robbins, Christopher Roberts, Raphaela Sapire, and Zachary Tupper. The National Achievement Scholarship Program semifinalist is Chelsea Glover and the National Achievement Scholarship Program Outstanding Participants are Asasia Carter, Kiara Hughes,Justin Jackson, Eryn Roberts, and April Sherman. The National Hispanic Recognition Finalists include Victoria Garcia, Lauren Ibarra,Juan Macias, Stephanie Morrison, David Munson, Antonio Quintanilla, and Matthew Willhelm.

Lamar High School Holds Freshman Round Up Night

November 3, 2006 – Lamar High School will hold its annual Freshman Round Up Night – Part I for all incoming fall 2007 freshman on Tuesday, November 14, 2006 starting at 7:00 p.m. in the auditorium. All students zoned to Lamar and all other prospective students and parents are invited to attend this informative event, which will focus on academic programs available at Lamar.

For additional information, please call 713.522.5960 .

Lamar Choir to Hold BBQ Fundraiser

The Lamar High School Choir Department will hold its first annual BBQ Fundraiser on Saturday, November 4th, from 11:30 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. on the eastside parking lot. The community is invited to help support the Choir Department by purchasing a BBQ "Bag to Go" for $5.00. Come by for some great BBQ and live music!

For presale tickets, please call the Choir Department at 713.522.5960 ext. 404.

LAMAR TO HOLD BOOK FAIR

Lamar High School will hold its annual Book Fair on Wednesday, November 1st., from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Barnes & Noble on 3000 Holcombe. The community is invited to come meet Larry Dierker from 7 - 8 p.m.

Dierker, former Houston Astros pitcher Broadcast Commentator, and Astros Manager will be signing copies of his new book, "My Team:Choosing My Dream Team from My Forty Years in Baseball." See performances from the Lamar Cheerleaders, JROTC, Lamar Orchestra and others. Enjoy Chick-Fil-A Spirit Night from 4 - 9 p.m. at Holcombe store. Door prizes, gift wrapping by student organizations.  All funds raised from the book sales will go to the Lamar Library.For additional information, please contact the Lamar PTO at 713.522.5960 ext. 352.

Lamar High School Big Red Run

September 29, 2006 - The Lamar High School PTO and Alumni Association are sponsoring the third annual Big Red Run 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, October 21, 2006 at 8 a.m. This year’s run will follow the same beautiful route through River Oaks that it did last year, beginning and ending on River Oaks Blvd. There will also be a 1K children’s run up and down the boulevard. All alumni, parents, students, and other runners are invited to show up and enjoy the beautiful course. Registrant’s will receive a specially designed t-shirt. The after party will have food, music, and free massages. Prizes will be awarded in all age groups.

The proceeds from this year’s fun run will be used to purchase needed supplies for the newly organized College Corner. This new College Corner houses two new staffers, both moms and former teachers, who offer students assistance with researching information on colleges, completing college applications, and applying for scholarships. Any parent who has helped his/her child with this process knows how overwhelming it can be. It is wonderful to have two kind, knowledgeable mothers on campus to help students negotiate the maze! The College Corner needs more planning guides, research books and college admission counseling books.

Anyone interested in participating may register online at www.signmeup.com or contact the Lamar Alumni Association Office at 713.522.5960 ext. 359.

College Night

September 20, 2006 – Lamar High School will host its annual College Night on Monday, October 9, 2006, from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. Over 150 college and university representatives from across the country will be on hand to discuss post secondary options, answer question regarding admission requirements, campus life, tuition and college preparations. For more information, please contact the Lamar PTO office at 713.522.5960 ext. 352.

Lamar High School Hosts Grandparents Appreciation Day

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September 13, 2006 – Lamar High School’s grandparents were honored at the annual Grandparents Appreciation Day on Thursday, September 7. Many grandparents attended the event and were welcomed with a lovely reception and a brief program by Lamar principal Dr. James McSwain, PTO president Leslie King and Alumni Director Fran Callahan. The program concluded with a beautiful performance by harpist Gabriella Hauser, who is a freshman at Lamar. Following the reception, grandparents were given a tour of the campus by the Lamar PTO.

Lamar High School Names National Merit, National Achievement Semifinalists and National Hispanic Finalists

September 13, 2006 – Lamar High School recently announced its semifinalists in the 2007 National Merit, National Achievement Scholarship Program and finalists in the National Hispanic Recognition Program. The 2007 National Merit Scholarship semifinalists are William Collie, Kristine Greive, Richard Hood, Zachary Lebovitz, James Newman, Anhvu Nguyen, Grant Niccum, Jackson Omaley, Joel Rajan, and Zachary Vanbrunt. The 2007 National Achievement semifinalist is Chelsea Glover. Finalists in the 2007 National Hispanic Recognition Program include Victoria Garcia, Lauren Ibarra, Juan Macias, Stephanie Morrison, David Munson, Antonio Quintanilla and Matthew Willhelm. All finalists and semifinalists will be honored at the annual Scholars Breakfast scheduled in October.

Lamar High School Presents “The Shadow Box”

Lamar High School’s Loading Dock Production Company will present its first production of the year – The Shadow Box by Michael Cristofer. The Shadow Box, a play about three families experiencing the same grief, will run September 28, 29, & 30 at 7:30 p.m. in the Lamar Theatre. This Pulitzer Prize & Tony Award-winning play features an ensemble cast including Etalvia Cashin, Elizabeth Culotta, Sam Hamill, Caroline Montondon, Claire Powell, Jacob Tice, Russell Traylor, Garrett Vaughner, and Victoria Williams. Tickets are $5.00 presale and $7.00 at the door and may be purchased in the theatre or from a Loading Dock company member.

Lamar High School Hosts Grandparents Spirit Day

Lamar High School will host the fourth annual Grandparents’ Appreciation Day on Thursday, September 7, 2006. A Grandparents’ Reception, starting at 10 a.m., will be held in the school’s Alumni Room, followed by a campus tour at 11:00 a.m. All grandparents who live in the community or have grandchildren who attend Lamar are invited to attend. If you plan to attend, please contact the PTO office at 713.522.5960 ext. 352.

Additional parking is located at Bethany Christian Church across the street from Lamar. If special assistance is needed, please contact Lamar’s PTO at 713.522.5960 ext. 352 or 338.

Lamar High School Holds Fall Open House

Lamar High School will hold its Fall Open House on Tuesday, September 12, 2006. The Lamar orchestra will perform a Pre-Open House Concert in the auditorium beginning at 6:00 p.m. Classroom visitations will begin promptly at 6:30 p.m. All parents are invited to attend!

Orchestra News!

Lamar orchestra member Lauren Ibarra was selected by the faculty as the top string player at the American Festival of the Arts Conservatory held this summer at Episcopal High School. About 250 wonderful musicians were accepted based on their auditions for the summer festival and school.

Also accepted in the month long program were Lamar orchestra students Steven Booker, Michelle Ebrahimi, Leslie Galeas, Alex Hernandez, Andria Levitt, Aixa Lopez and Alex Sereni.

New Lamar orchestra director Rick Yancey attended the final concert on July 15th and said. “ This was an incredible concert by these talented students. It was also a thrill to watch them perform and to see Lauren honored in this way.”

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Las directivas del escuela de Lamar High School prohíben cualquier tipo de discriminación debido a edad, color, discapicidad, ascendencia, nacionalidad, estado civil, raza, religión sexo, condición de veterano militar o afilicaión política en sus programas y actividades académicas y en el empleo.
It is the policy of Lamar High School not to discriminate on the basis of age, color, handicap or disability, ancestry, national origin, marital status, race, religion, sex, veteran status, or political affiliation in its educational or employment programs and activities
    
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