214@100: 'Class to the last'

On the last day of the last year that Arlington High School was in business, students and staff gathered for one last time. It was a hot day in early spring, the banner "Class to the Last," hung over the front of the school and Principal John Rowe announced that Gov. James R. Thompson had named the day, June 8, 1984, as Arlington High School Day.

The flag was lowered and for the final time the alma mater was sung. At the last verse, "Our Cardinals soaring high," scores of balloons were released.

Former athletic director Russ Attis ended it with a poem.

"Erase the name, but never, never the memory of fame

Of the once mighty, mighty Cardinal.

"In the fall, when peace and tranquillity have returned,

The cheers of newfound happiness will raise our spirits.

"So, it's 'So long, Cardinal.' Hello tomorrow."