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The fifth annual Superior High School hall of fame induction ceremony was held Sat. Sept. 20. The annual event has become a tradition since its start in 2008 honoring those Superior High School alumni and staff that have made significant contributions to the community.
This year’s six inductees were Evelyn L. Pack – Bates (Staff), Steven L. Besich (Class of 1969), Rita N. Carillo (Class of 1968), Bill Ong Hing (Class of 1967), Joe Osuna Tameron (Class of 1945), and Ray H. West (Staff).
Sonia Bribiescas, Class of 1988 was the Mistress of Ceremonies and Roy Chavez, Class of 1971 was the Master of Ceremonies.
Frank Rabago Class of 1970 sang the Star Spangled Banner and later sang an American Rendition.
A buffet style dinner that was prepared by the Superior High School Culinary Class included a mini-tostada bar, enchiladas and beans, miniature croissant sandwiches, vegetable and fruit trays, desserts and beverages.
The first inductee Evelyn L. Pack was represented by Sonia Bribiescas who gave a personal account of how Evelyn had fought for Title IX so girls had equal opportunities to play sports in school. Sonia had been hurt by not being allowed to play on the eighth grade boy’s basketball team as the girls did not have a team.
The team won the state championship and she missed that opportunity. Mila Besich Lira accepted the plaque for her father Steven L. Bescih who died in 2010. She spoke about how she has heard of many of the wonderful things he did from people that knew and worked for him.
Rita N. Carillo was next to speak, she talked about some of the people and teachers that made an impact on her life in Superior. She continues to make a difference in people’s lives now that she and her family have relocated toNew York City.
She sits on the board of Seedco Financial Services, a community development corporation based in New York City. She is also on the Board of Planned Parenthood.
Bill Ong Hing was introduced and spoke about how growing up in Superior made him who he is. “I am what I am because ofSuperior” he said. He talked about growing up in a large family and how the community of Superior “taught me what it was like having a diverse community.”
“Because of Superior, I believe in comprehensive immigration reform”. I believe that communities can get along together”. Bill spoke about how he often refers toSuperiorwhen he talks to old and new friends and how many of them can’t understand what it was like growing up in a mining town.
He said “maybe it’s a community in my dreams”. “It’s a dream I will never forget. It’s made such a difference in my life.”
Joe Osuna Tameron spoke about his induction.
The last inductee was Ray H. West a beloved teacher atSuperiorHigh School. Gloria Martinez accepted his award and made a small speech about some of Mr. West’s accomplishments.
Elijah and Marjorie Cardon, the owners of the Old Superior High School buildings, were introduced and presented an award. Manny “Coach” Ruiz handed out the plaques to the inductees and their family.
After the benediction, a slide show put together by Sonia Bribiescas was shown. The presentation was old historical photos ofSuperiorset to the song “Unforgettable” by Nat King Cole and his daughter Natalie. A video of some film shot in the 1920s by Robert Jones was also shown.
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