Social Events

The school sponsored from two to four dances a year. Several held at the school auditorium and several at the Ebell Club or the Beverly Hills Women's Club. All girl's schools would be invited to participate in these fairly formal occasions. Many of us didn't care for these but it was, after all, part of our education. There was always a special Christmas Dance and the Graduation Ball. I could have easily done with out them.

The school went all out at Christmas time. It was a big deal outside on the athletic field. Santa came by various means over the few short years the school existed. I particularly remember one time by helicopter (a big deal in 1952) and once by police escort, siren, lights and all. Cadets were invited up to sit on Santa's knee--even the big kids such as Rowland Parker pictured on the left. Token presents were handed out and parents were invited to the festivities.

In this picture on the left, Frank Brick emceed the event and an officer from the California Cadet Corps can be seen seated on the far right.

This article appeared in the 1952 yearbook under the "dancing" topic:

"Dancing is a favorite project at CHMA. The Christmas Dance is always an exciting one—not merely because it represents our first opportunity to demonstrate our particular terpsichorean abilities, but let's go back to December and have another look! There's the auditorium resplendent in tinsel. There's the stage transformed into an amazing winter scene. The guests . The orchestra. Now the cadets are marching in to take their assigned places. Our partners are arriving. In no time at all the Grand March is under way, led by Major Binder and Miss Ryan. Music ... dancing .. . laughter ... then last but by no means least refreshments!

Several off-campus dances were held at the Beverly Hills Women's Club. These were characterized by individual and striking themes, ranging from Barn Dancing to Luau. Of course the "big" dance of the year is the Graduation Ball which will take place after we have gone to press. Nevertheless it is safe to predict that this year's fete will be equally as colorful and enjoyable at this event has been in the past."