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Gibby Martinez is pictured in the center. The photo was taken in 1968.
A kingly family: Bernie Soto, left, and his grandfather, Gibby Martinez both were named Homecoming King for their schools, Canyon del Oro (for Bernie) and San Manuel High School (for Gibby). John Hernandez | Miner
San Manuel Miner
A former Mt. Vista student was selected as the Homecoming King for Canyon del Oro High School. Bernie Soto is believed to be the first student from Oracle to be selected for this honor. The students at CDO elect the Homecoming King and Queen and no one knows who it will be until they announce it at halftime of the Homecoming football game. Bernie was announced as the Homecoming King at the game against Flowing Wells on Oct. 24, Megan Carroll was named Queen. It was also the 50th anniversary of Canyon del Oro High School.
Bernie plays center and nose guard for the CDO Varsity Football Team. CDO made it to the Division III quarterfinals this year losing last Friday to undefeated Saguaro. He is a dedicated student and hard worker having balanced a job, athletics and school during the year. He also played goalie on the lacrosse team and has made the honor roll. He plans on attending the University of Arizona after graduation and would like to walk on their lacrosse team.
Another interesting part of this story is back in 1968 Bernie’s grandfather Gilbert “Gibby” Martinez was named Homecoming King at San Manuel High School. Gibby grew up in Mammoth and lives in Oracle. Bernie is the son of Sylvia and Mo Soto. Congratulations to Bernie and the Soto family.
John Hernandez lives in Oracle. He is retired and enjoys writing and traveling. He is active in the Oracle Historical Society. He covers numerous public events, researches historical features and writes business/artist profiles.
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