The Class of 1969-70, along with Southern Standard employees, stood under their booth collecting photos and written memories during Saturday’s Autumn Street Fair. 

This compilation will be used for the newspaper’s keepsake 2020 calendar in celebration of 50 years of Warren County Pioneers.

On Saturday, 1970s music drifted through the air causing many classmates to sway and even bust a move or two, including Kay Cope.

“Did you know we didn’t have a prom,” Cope said still in disbelief. “I remember the soul train was a popular dance.” 

Even former football coach Pedro Paz made an appearance despite mobility issues. Former football players from the first consolidated class perked up as soon as they saw coach Paz and immediately embraced him.

I’ll never forget that time you lowered that head and sent three or four to the hospital,” said Herald Lusk. “I remember that very well.

Responded Dwight O’Neal jokingly, “I would block for Herold. That’s why he was so good.”

Added Billy Tanner, “Football is not as rough as it was when we were playing.”

Coach Paz recalls what it was like to train the first consolidated class of Pioneers.

“It was a challenge because we hadn’t been winning before for a long time,” recounted coach Paz. “There is no such thing as black and white when you play any sport so I had to convince them that it takes a family. We just had good athletes who worked together and I told them when y’all decide to win, that’s when we’ll start winning.” 

If you weren’t able to stop by the booth, it’s not too late to share your story or memorabilia. You can still bring photos, memorabilia and written memories to the Southern Standard. The deadline to participate is Friday, Oct. 25 by 5 p.m.