Meandering Around Town # 28: 75 Years of Cavalier Spirit
An Adventure In Which A Former Mayor Continues To Seek The “Soul” Of His Hometown
Recently, our hometown high school celebrated its first 75 years of existence with a day-long event that included a pep rally and convocation ceremony in the school auditorium, as well as multiple class reunions (held in various dining establishments around the city). The atmosphere was electric and full of good cheerfulness, with participants representing many decades of the school’s existence. Other articles have highlighted this very special event, but herein we will focus on the reflections of those people who were intimately involved in its planning and execution.
To Bertha Lopez-Lowell (class of 1993) this was a moment that capped a long relationship with Gables High: “The 75th celebration became a beautiful day of reconnection, nostalgia, and pride. This school has impacted my life in so many ways; it has shaped who I am and has given me friendships and memories that will last a lifetime. Organizing this event was my way of giving back to a place that has given me so much. I’m a proud Cavalier!”
Chair of Friends of Gables High (a nonprofit support group) Luciana Gonzalez summed up her feelings: “GHS has truly become home for our family and has provided our daughter (class of ’26) with an incredible experience. It feels only natural to want to give back and support that legacy. I am so grateful to have been part of the anniversary festivities.”
The school’s Activities Director Ana Suarez, (with over 30 years of dedicated service) adds: “The legacy of Gables High is built on generations of remarkable students who have gone on to do extraordinary things. Celebrating their life accomplishments reminds us why our work at this educational institution matters so deeply.”
June Thomson Morris (class of 1979), founder of Friends of Gables High, provides a meaningful closing comment to these reflections: “At a time when many traditional public schools are struggling, Gables Senior High is an A-rated academic gem. Not only due to the beautiful new interior campus, but also due to the spirit of legacy that still shines brightly within its walls. Many alumni, along with former teachers and principals, returned for this very special event to celebrate 75 years of Cavalier pride.”
Let me conclude with this thought: Even though this “meanderer” is a proud Miami High Stingaree, I am honored that my daughter, Kathleen (‘90), my son Don III (‘94), my daughter-in-law Cecilia (‘96), and now my granddaughter Ceci (‘29) are all “Cavaliers forever” – thankful for what a Gables High education has done to ensure a lifetime of success (and happiness).
This column appears monthly by Don Slesnick, who served as mayor of Coral Gables from 2001 to 2011. If you wish to reach him with suggestions on where he should next meander in search of the city’s soul, email donslesnick@scllp.com.