Clear Lake High School (CLHS) alumni raised funds to support the CLHS student scholarship fund while reconnecting across generations at the first annual “FalconFest.”

Organized by previous graduates, the event took place on Saturday, March 21, at Carlos’s Beer Garden with the help of owner and Class of 1978 alumnus, Adolph Villagomez.

It was preceded by a pre-party at Rock Neutney’s, hosted with the help of owner and Class of 1982 alumnus, Brian Riggs, who also matched a percentage of all donations made by those who contributed that Friday, March 20.

The event lasted from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. and had around 400 people show up for an evening full of food, live music, alumni engagement, and fundraising efforts aimed at supporting students who may not otherwise receive financial assistance.

“We would like to give back to Clear Lake High School in the form of scholarships,” said Cindi Fisher, event committee member and Class of 1983 alumnus. “Not necessarily the top 10%, but some of those who might not be getting scholarships. We would like it to go to those who really need it.”

“FalconFest” grew out of earlier class reunions, especially efforts by the Class of 1980.

“We had a really successful reunion,” said Nicki Standly, another event committee member and Class of 1980 alumnus. “This past fall, we had about 200 people show up, and we realized people wanted to stay connected.”

Organizers expanded the idea into a larger, multi-class event with a clear purpose. “We didn’t want it to just be a party,” said Standly. “We really wanted it to have some type of meaning.”

That purpose was reflected in both the fundraising structure and the event atmosphere. Alumni classes contributed donations, with the Class of 1980 being the highest-contributing class, and received a trophy for their efforts.

T-shirts were sold for $30, and koozies and wristbands were also donated by members from various classes to support the cause.

Live performances were also a major highlight of the evening. Soul Soup “Electric” performed at 4 p.m., led by Terry Cohn, Class of 1983 alumnus, followed by a 7 p.m. set by The Stretch Williams Band, led by Jack Williams, Class of 1980 alumnus.

Beyond fundraising, the event emphasized long-standing community ties among Clear Lake alumni.

“Some of my friends here I’ve had since pre-K,” said Standly. “Some since sixth grade, some from dance class. Our kids have grown up together. We’re a perfect example of what it means to be a thriving Clear Lake community, and to pass that on.”

Organizers said the scholarships are intended to provide as much financial help as possible. “I feel like it gives them confidence to go out and really get what they want,” said Standly. “And to know that people care about them.”

While the current organizing group is largely made up of alumni from the 1970s and 1980s, there are plans to even further expand involvement in the future. “I would say that the ’70s and ’80s, we’re a tight-knit group,” said Fisher.

“We really hope to see more from the ’90s and 2000s. Hopefully it will continue to grow, and we can pass that down to them as well.”

For many in attendance, the event represented something deeper than a single gathering. “Seeing all of our friends here, and knowing we’re on our second, maybe third generation, that’s pretty exciting,” said Standly.

“FalconFest” organizers plan to build on this year’s turnout and continue growing the event as both a reunion and a long-term investment in CLHS students.