The Thomas Jefferson High School Alumni Picnic Committee is reporting brisk responses for its 19th Annual Gathering of the Democrats Picnic scheduled Sept. 15 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at historic Fulton Field.
A contingent of members was on hand last weekend at the Central Avenue Jazz Festival and revealed that this year’s picnic could be the most successful of all under the banner “We’re Going Home.”
“We have received lots of positive responses regarding the picnic,” said Judy Johnson, a member of the picnic committee. “We have at least two dozen alumni from out of state call and say they’ll attend. We’re looking forward to a wonderful afternoon.”
Clifford Ross, a member of the Jefferson class of 1960, said many former students—some from as far back as 1949—have contacted the committee and are making plans to attend.
“We’re seeing many old friends contact us and say they’re making plans to stop by,” Ross said. “The younger generation is equally interested in the event and the opportunity to learn more about their alma mater. We’re all very excited.”
Danny Brown, class of 1963 and president of the Picnic Committee, said the return to Fulton Field will be a highlight for many in attendance because of the news that the facility and the school itself is set to undergo a multi-million-dollar refurbishment project to include an on-site baseball field, tennis courts, new academic and administrative buildings, improved lighting and landscaping.
“We’re very excited to hear the news that Fulton Field will be remodeled,” Brown said. “We will host a “sports night’ next year in recognition of the many famous athletes who have played at Jefferson as well as draw attention to the outstanding administrators, teachers and coaches who have made such a positive influence at the campus and in the community in general.”
The neighborhood near Jefferson High is experiencing a renaissance. Last week, Councilman Curren Price (Ninth District) was involved in efforts to plant 1,000 trees (many along the Central Avenue Corridor) throughout the area. Price ran on a “Clean and Green” campaign to spruce up the neighborhood by cleaning up neighborhood streets and alleys, adding new trash bins and improving “quality of life” elements within the community.
Today, Price will host the first-ever CD 9 Summer Fun Fair from 5 to 7 p.m. at Slauson Multipurpose Center, 5306 Compton Ave. Los Angeles’ own Tommy the Clown will make an appearance and there will be live music provided 93.5 KDAY-FM.
“We’re looking forward to this event,” Price said. “We want the families residing nearby to enjoy lots of fun activities such as an obstacle course for children, face painting, a photo booth, lots of treats and so much more.”
Tomorrow, the 5th Annual Movies in the Park series continues at Trinity Park Recreation Center, 2415 Trinity St., with a screening of the popular Disney film “Coco.” Showtime is at 7:45 p.m. The free event will include snacks and refreshments.
A Back-to-School Health and Family Festival is scheduled Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Exposition Park. The event will feature free health screenings, haircuts, backpacks, school supplies, uniforms, underwear/socks, and valuable resource information. There will also be raffle prizes, food and entertainment (while supplies last).
