Homecoming and History at Pali High

Homecoming is an exciting time of the year, and this year's celebration at is in overdrive as the school marks its 50th anniversary.

Pali High students, alumni and faculty have been planning anniversary events throughout the year. On the Fourth of July, a , created by student Eeman Khorramian, joined the parade down Sunset Boulevard. But that was just the beginning. Rich Wilken, chairman of the Pali High 50th Anniversary Committee, sent Patch a preview of more exciting events scheduled for homecoming on Friday.

The day will begin with an invitation-only event in front of Mercer Hall, where a time capsule sealed into the wall when the school was dedicated in 1961 will be opened.

Inside the capsule, Wilken expects to find congratulatory letters, newspaper articles and a copy of a dedication speech given by Pali High's first principal, Dr. Herbert Aigner. The items will be on display in the administration building until the capsule is resealed, along with new contents, in June 2012.

Attendees of the morning program will also watch a 15-minute film, entitled Temescal Canyon—Before Palisades High. Future local screenings are planned.

Homecoming activities will officially start around 11:15 a.m. with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Food trucks will begin serving at 2 p.m., and more trucks are expected to join the caravan of goodies as the evening wears on. A pre-game gathering will be held on the Pali quad at 4:30 p.m. until 7 p.m., when the is set to begin at the Stadium by the Sea.

The homecoming game will include a special alumni cheering section and feature former cheerleaders wearing the school's traditional blue and white uniforms. Graduated members of the school band will perform Pali fight songs during the game.

Wilken said Pali High 50th Anniversary Dolphin gear will be sold throughout the day so homecoming attendees can be prepared to show their school spirit.

Friday will be a day to celebrate the family, friends and academic achievements Pali High has been home to for 50 years. Congratulations!

• For more on how the Pali High football team has been practicing for the homecoming game, .
• For photos from Rose Gilbert's Remembrance Day, .
• For video of the 10-foot Pali High Anniversary Float, .
• For video of the installation of the 50th Annivesary banners on Temescal Canyon Road, .

This article was originally published on .