VOLUME 77
NUMBER 28
28 PAGES
Thursday, Th d J July l 5 5, 2012
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Graduation - École H. J. Cody High School graduates gathered at the pier last Wednesday morning for the traditional graduation picture before walking through downtown to the multiplex where graduation ceremonies were held. The timing of graduation was moved from early May to late June this year to keep students focused on their studies. The 129 graduates and four honourary graduates heard various messages of encouragement and advice from dignitaries including valedictorians Ashley Lutz and Taylor Solberg and guest speaker Lyndon Rush. This is the third year at Sylvan Lake multiplex which is part of a goal to celebrate their Sylvan roots. Later in the evening, graduates, family and friends enjoyed a banquet in Red Deer. More pictures and stories are on pages 11-15. STEVE DILLS
Milestone celebrated by Cody graduates by Steve Dills Sylvan Lake News
It was a day of reminiscing as well as looking towards the future. And there was lots of sage advice offered to the 129 graduates and four honourary graduates of H. J. Cody High School. Describing them as “a pretty fabulous group of kids sitting before us today”, Principal Dave Elwood began the “celebration for what these students have achieved along
their long 12 year road”. The school’s graduation was held last Wednesday - a departure from past years when the ceremonies were held in early May. The reason, said organizers, was to keep students focused on their studies until the end of the school year. Innisfail-Sylvan Lake MLA Kerry Towle encouraged students to “live every day and enjoy what you do, do what is right.” “Life is about relationships, keep them solid and binding,” she said.
She told them to seek additional education, stating Alberta has some amazing trade schools, art colleges and universities. “It’s about allowing your mind to expand. Post secondary teaches you how to think critically,” Towle said. Graduates were also told to become engaged citizens. “Look within yourself and find something you’re concerned about and get involved. Whatever interests you, get involved and be part of your community.”
Her final point was “be loyal to your family both in the present and in the future... they are your backbone, your support.” “You have a great future, only you will determine the limits,” she concluded. “With great opportunity comes great responsibility. Make your life count.” Towle then presented the MLA Citizenship Award to Summer Workman. Chinook’s Edge School Division Assistant Superintendent Lissa
Steele offered the graduates five suggestions. “You don’t need to rush into finding your life’s work,” she began. “Find what interests you and go for it.” “Opportunities are going to arise, be flexible,” Steele encouraged. “Learn from your mistakes, get over it and move on.” “Ask yourself if what you’re doing today is helping you get to where you want to be.” Continued on page 11
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