An intersection in Pacoima adjacent to San Fernando High School will be designated Friday as Gigger Square to honor the late Richard Gigger Jr. and his widow, Ellen Gigger, respectively the school’s beloved band and drill team directors.
Richard Gigger Jr. was the school’s band director from 1982 until his retirement in 1999. His wife Ellen directed the drill team and taught piano and chorus classes.
Known as “The Team” the Giggers guided San Fernando to 13 consecutive city band and drill team championships.
In her motion designating the intersection of Laurel Canyon Boulevard and Chamberlain Street as Gigger Square, Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez, a 1992 San Fernando graduate, wrote that the Giggers “wholeheartedly devoted themselves to their students, holding them to high expectations and encouraging them to strive for greatness.
Their lessons helped develop a greater sense of self-confidence and ambition in thousand of students, many of whom are now among California’s business, civic, educational and musical leaders.”
The motion was seconded by Councilwoman Nury Martinez, a 1991 San Fernando graduate.
Richard Digger died in November at the age of 87. His widow is expected to attend the ceremony at San Fernando High.
—City News Service