The Times
The world of music changed forever just as students of the graduating class of 1978 were on their way back to campus. On August 16, 1977, at the age of 42, Elvis Presley died at Graceland. Although initially reported to be a cardiac incident, Elvis’ death was most likely cardiac arrest due to a prolonged and serious drug habit.
Downstate female students, especially those from the NYC area, returned to campus relieved that their summer of terror ended when on August 10th, 1977, 24-year old postal worker David Berkowitz also known as “Son of Sam” was arrested for murder in Yonkers. When police arrived, he proclaimed “Ok, you got me.” He is currently serving 6 consecutive life sentences.
By September 7th, President Jimmy Carter and Panamanian Chief of Government, Omar Torrijos, signed the Panama Canal Treaty and Neutrality Treaty guaranteeing Panamanian control of the Panama Canal, taking effect on December 31, 1999. The treaty was seen as an end to the symbol of American “imperialism” and ensuring the Canal acts fairly towards all nations.
We all know that Cortland gets more than its share of snow, but between Sunday February 5th through Tuesday, February 7th in 1978, the Great Northeast Blizzard called “Storm Larry” dumped approximately 20 inches of snow on the Crown City along with winds over 100mph for more than 33 hours. Cortland students being a hardy bunch, we’re not completely sure if all classes were cancelled on Monday!
On April 3rd, 1978, Annie Hall dominated the 50th Academy Awards winning Best Picture, Best Director (Woody Allen) and Best Actress (Diane Keaton). Woody Allen did not show up to the Academy Awards and was accepted on Woody’s behalf by actress Cecily Tyson and director King Vidor.
Notable Events
Elvis Presley Dead
August 16, 1977
80,000 people flocked to Memphis wo watch the funeral procession of Elvis’ funeral. President Jimmy Carter sent 300 National Guard troops to keep order. Leading the procession was a 1977 Cadillac Sedan de Ville, followed by a white 1977 Cadillac hearse carrying Elvis. The hearse was followed by at least 10 white Cadillacs.
Son of Sam – Arrested
September 5-6, 1972
It was thought that the Son Of Sam was targeting women in NYC who had long, dark hair. The very real fear of being a target, led many women to cut their hair short, dye it or wear wigs.
Paris Peace Accords Signed
August 10, 1977
Although started in 1968 between the US and Hanoi, the Paris Peace Accords were finally signed after negotiating for 3 ½ years in Paris on January 27th, 1973 by The United States, South Vietnam, Viet Cong and North Vietnam, bringing an end to the long and deadly Vietnam War and the release of American POWs.
50th Academy Awards
April 3rd, 1978
Although Woody Allen won Best Director for Annie Hall, he didn’t attend the Academy Awards ceremony with his standing excuse that he played clarinet for the Eddy Davis New Orleans Jazz Band at the Café Carlisle on Monday nights
Performances
