BRAINERD DISPATCH | SUNDAY, MAY 16, 2021
BRAINERDDISPATCH.COM
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GRADUATION 2021
Photo illustration by Metro Newspaper Service
Graduation 2021
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Grads look to in-person pomp and circumstance ceremonies By Theresa Bourke 6WDႇ :ULWHU nother school year is about to end, and once again high school graduation ceremonies will look a little different than normal. But the class of 2021 can count their lucky stars, as they participate in commencements that aren’t hosted over the internet, unlike their 2020 peers. While 2020’s seniors were thrust from their classrooms and peers at the tail end of their last year of high
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school, the 2021 grads rode on a seemingly endless roller coaster as seniors, never quite sure what the next day, week or month was going to bring. For most, classes began in person — like a normal year — but with the addition of masks, social distancing and plenty of hand sanitizer. Some stayed home part time in a hybrid format, seeing their classmates and teachers virtually for a portion of the week and looking forward to the days they got to be in the physical
classroom. Others opted for a home classroom all year, trying to keep themselves and their loved ones safe from the rapidly spreading coronavirus. As the COVID-19 climate changed throughout the year — with infection rates rising and dropping — so too did school days for students, as those in school moved back and forth between in-person, hybrid and remote classes. Both students and teachers alike struggled to maintain meaningful relationships but
creatively used technology and other resources at their disposal to make sure the best learning possible still occurred. School leaders labored over the best decisions to keep both their students and staff safe and their educational instruction top notch. Area principals described the classes of 2021 as talented, optimistic leaders who never failed to use their creativity, grit and problem-solving skills to endure a crazy year. They persisted through all the
highs and lows, paving an unconventional path on the way to academic excellence and personal success. Most of the 2021 grads will get to celebrate those accomplishments in person with their peers this year. Masks and social distancing may still be in play, but gone are the virtual ceremonies, pre-recorded speeches and drive-thru parties — at least we hope. THERESA BOURKE may be reached at theresa.bourke@brainerddispatch.com or 218-855-5860. Follow her on Twitter at www.twitter.com/DispatchTheresa.
Brainerd High School graduates Commencement: S P 0D\ DW $GDPVRQ )LHOG Students graduating: Class colors: 6WXQQLQJ VLOYHU DQG EULOOLDQW EOXH Class flower: :KLWH *DUGHQLD Class motto: ³<RX¶UH RQ \RXU RZQ $QG \RX NQRZ ZKDW \RX NQRZ $QG <28 DUH DUH WKH RQH ZKR¶OO GHFLGH ZHUH WR *2 ´ 'U 6HXVV
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TOP 5 STUDENTS
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Katherine K th i Ch Chaussee
Raleigh R l i h Mann M
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AITKIN HIGH SCHOOL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .H8
LITTLE FALLS COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL . . . . . . . . . . . . .H3
PINE RIVER-BACKUS HIGH SCHOOL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .H6
CROSBY-IRONTON HIGH SCHOOL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .H8
PEQUOT LAKES HIGH SCHOOL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .H8
STAPLES-MOTLEY HIGH SCHOOL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .H7
CROSSLAKE ONLINE HIGH SCHOOL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .H8
PIERZ - HEALY HIGH SCHOOL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H4-5
WADENA-DEER CREEK HIGH SCHOOL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .H7
LAKE REGION CHRISTIAN SCHOOL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .H8
PILLAGER HIGH SCHOOL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .H2
GRADUATION STORIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H8-12
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GRADUATION 2021
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SUNDAY, MAY 16, 2021 | BRAINERD DISPATCH
BRAINERDDISPATCH.COM
Pillager High School graduates Commencement: 7 p.m. May 21 at Pillager High School Students graduating: 54. Class colors: Maroon and gold. Class flower: Red rose with gold tips. Class motto: “Think positive, test negative.” Class song: “Count on Me” by Bruno Mars Quote from Principal Jason Savage: “What sets the Pillager High
School Class of 2021 apart from other classes is their small numbers but high academic achievement. The 54 graduates of the class of 2021 is our smallest class in years and for the foreseeable future in Pillager. This class continually rose to the top as students; their overall academics and test scores were excellent. The class of 2021 were freshmen when I started at Pillager and is the first class that I had for all four years of High School.”
TOP 5 STUDENTS
Austin A ti H Houle l
Chloe P Chl Pearson
Greta G t H Hallll
Summer Lynn S L Meyer M
Summer Stehr S St h
Parents: Steve and Amber Houle.
Parents: Kurt and Rachel Pearson.
Parents: Steve and Wendy Hall.
Parents: Kevin and Jodi Meyer.
Parents: Chad and Monica Stehr.
Extracurricular activities: Band, jazz band, choir, chamber choir, musicals, AV club, NHS, track (timing official).
Extracurricular activities: ProStart.
Extracurricular activities: Cross-country, basketball, softball, National Honor Society, Special Olympics, class officer, student council, concert choir, chamber choir and musical.
Extracurricular activities: None
Extracurricular activities: Track.
Hobbies: Fishing, hammocking, going to the gym, going for walks, spending time with family and friends, working with kids and being outdoors.
Hobbies: Cleaning/organizing, interior design, coloring.
Hobbies: Skiing, RC flying, kayaking, snowmobiling. Future plans: Next year I will be attending NDSU for a degree in electrical engineering. Part-time job: I work at Cragun’s Resort as a front desk agent. Memorable high school moment: One of my favorite high school memories is getting to play hide and seek in the school with all my friends before the lockdown.
Hobbies: Reading, cooking, watching movies, doing anything outside. Future plans: Heading to college for hospitality management. Part-time job: Working at Yellowstone National Park this summer as a kitchen crew member. Memorable high school moment: Winning second place at our state ProStart Competition.
Hobbies: Sports, music, acting, outdoors, baking and spending time with friends and family. Future plans: Attend the University of Mary in Bismarck, North Dakota, to major in history education and minor in theater. Part-time work: I work at Grand View Lodge as a recreation supervisor.
Future plans: Attend St. Cloud Technical and Community College for dental hygiene. Part-time work: Infant/pretot aide at The Learning Ladder.
Future plans: Attend Iowa State University, majoring in interior design Part-time work: Madden’s. Memorable high school moment: Spanish Club trip to Costa Rica.
Memorable high school moment: Snowshoeing sophomore year with my class at Charles Lindbergh State Park!
Memorable high school moment: My most memorable high school moment would either have to be going to New Orleans on a band and choir trip, or playing hide and seek through the whole school the day before quarantine.
Submitted photos
Above: Snowdays. Below: Snowdaze Court.
&21*5$78/$7,216
Above: Students perform in “Guys and Dolls.” Below: Culinary competition for 2021 Minnesota ProStart Invitational.
Above: Homecoming.
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Baxter 218.828.9545 TOLL FREE 877.338.3937
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“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dream” - Eleanor Roosevelt
(218)829-4511 Baxter
(218)568-5011 Pequot Lakes www.lakesdentalcare.com Jeffrey E. Olson | Cassandra J. Spitzley | Sam C. Hennies | David M. Ude
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BRAINERD DISPATCH | SUNDAY, MAY 16, 2021
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GRADUATION 2021
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Little Falls Community High School graduates Quote from Principal Stephen Jones: “This senior class will forever be remembered for their perseverance, grit, and scholastic excellence. I have no doubt that this experience has taught them the importance of individual determination and flexibility as they go through life. These students will go on to accomplish wonderful things as they hold true to the values of Flyer Pride! Good luck and best wishes to the LFCHS class of 2021!”
Commencement: 2 p.m. May 30 on the Little Falls Community High School football field. Students graduating: 151. Class colors: Purple and white. Class flower: Lavender ocean sweetheart rose Class motto: “If opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door.” Class song: “See You Again” by Wiz Khalifa featuring Charlie Puth.
TOP 10 STUDENTS
Emma G E Gustafson t f
Aidan H Aid Hagen
Leah L h JJosephson h
Lilly Ward Lill W d
Kaylee K l Zupko Z k
Parents: Graham and Jessica Gustafson.
Parents: Christopher and Jennifer Hagen.
Parents: Donald and Cheryl Josephson
Parents: Andy and Leanne Ward.
Parents: Michael and Carrie Zupko.
Extracurricular activities: Swim and dive team.
Extracurricular activities: Cross-country, nordic skiing, jazz band, trap shooting, brass quintet, knowledge bowl, robotics.
Extracurricular activities: Swimming, dance, track, homecoming committee, prom committee, LINK, FCA.
Hobbies: Playing video games.
Hobbies: Banking or hanging out with friends.
Hobbies: Hiking and drawing. Future plans: Attend St. Thomas to major in biology. Memorable moment: Day of Caring
Future plans: Go to Michigan Tech for computer science. Memorable moment: Computer science classes with friends.
Rank: 1.
Rank: 2.
Future plans: To attend the University of Minnesota-Duluth for secondary education and mathematics. Memorable moment: State for swimming my junior year!
Extracurricular activities: One act, robotics, fall play, spring musical. Hobbies: Hanging out with friends. Future plans: Attending NDSU for electrical engineering with a minor in biomedical engineering. Memorable moment: Going to France and Italy. Rank: 4.
Extracurricular activities: Soccer, skiing, track, band, jazz band, LINK, homecoming committee, prom committee. Hobbies: Sports. Future plans: To attend the University of Minnesota-Duluth. Memorable moment: Beating Cathedral in overtime on their senior night in soccer. Rank: 5.
Rank: 3.
Abigailil B Abi Borash h
Kaden K d Kurr K
JJacqueline li Fi Fiedler dl
Taylor T l JJordan d
Tristan T i t Gallus G ll
Parents: Wayne and Joyce Borash.
Parents: David and Melissa Kurr.
Parents: Chad and Kari Fiedler.
Parents: Kevin and Tara Jordan.
Extracurricular activities: Cross-country, nordic ski, spring musical, choir accompanist, band, jazz I, LINK, homecoming/prom committee, FFA.
Extracurricular activities: Football, track and field, weight lifting.
Extracurricular activities: Knowledge bowl, speech, LINK, drama club.
Extracurricular activities: Volleyball, basketball, soccer, LINK, homecoming committee.
Parents: Kurt Gallus and Melissa Holst.
Hobbies: Chilling with my friends and watching Netflix marathons.
Hobbies: Hanging out with my dog.
Hobbies: Painting, drawing, running, crafting. Future plans: Attend University of Wisconsin-Stout to pursue animation and digital media.
Hobbies: Working on my truck. Future plans: Planning to attend UMD for mechanical engineering. Memorable moment: Homecoming football games. Rank: 7.
Memorable moment: Dancing in the 2019 homecoming pep fest dance off with the cross-country team.
Future plans: I plan on going to CLC to be a medical assistant. Memorable moment: When the power went out while I was in TV productions and my best friend and I watched YouTube in the corner until it turned back on. Rank: 8.
Rank: 6.
Future plans: I will be attending Concordia College in Moorhead to continue my basketball career and major in health/physical education. Memorable moment: My favorite memory is cheering and being a part of the student section when the boys hockey team beat Fergus Falls to go to state!
Extracurricular activities: Speech, art club, knowledge bowl, spring musical, fall play, one act, target and LINK. Hobbies: Scrolling through TikTok. Future plans: To become a therapist and help people who are struggling. Memorable moment: 10th grade French class. Rank: 10.
Rank: 9.
Grads are important members of our cooperative
WISHES T S E B d n a S TION CONGRATULA ers! iv r D s u B e h t m all of Graduates fro
8342 Industrial In ndustrial Park Road Road, Baxter Baxter, MN
829-6955 • www.reichertbus.com
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GRADUATION 2021
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SUNDAY, MAY 16, 2021 | BRAINERD DISPATCH
BRAINERDDISPATCH.COM
Pierz Healy High School graduates Commencement: 7 p.m. May 28, location to be determined. Students graduating: 77. Class colors: Barn red, crystal white, midnight black. Class flower: Peppermint Carnation. Class motto: “How lucky am I having something that makes saying goodby so hard,” -Winnie the Pooh. Quote from Principal Karrie Boser: “What a year seniors! You persevered through a drastic ‘stop’ to the end of your junior year and then have lived through a year of constant unknowns. I want to chal-
lenge you to look at all the ‘wins’ you have had and that is what you will remember when you think back to your senior year. Your journey has been filled with high school experiences and friendships that no one can take away. You have shown great leadership while being asked to learn in a multitude of ways, some with friends beside you and some at a distance. Your need to persevere through so many unknowns will be what allows you to overcome obstacles that you may face in your future. Thanks for being such a great Class of 2021!”
TOP 10 STUDENTS
Kaylee K l B Becker k
Ellie Fi Elli Fischer h
Alissa Girtz Ali Gi t
Emily E il Herold H ld
Kloe K Kl Kapsner
Parents: Robbie and Kelly Becker. Extracurricular activities: Minnesota Honor Society, peer helping, Where Everyone Belongs, Encouraging Positive Influences and Choices, pit band, tennis, Big Brothers Big Sisters, youth group and church choir. Hobbies: Camping, being outside and playing games with family. Future plans: Attend Central Lakes College in Brainerd for accounting. Memorable high school moment: Traveling to Nashville, Tennessee, and Chicago, Illinois, for the band/ choir trip in 2019.
Parents: Shawn and Beth Fischer. Extracurricular activities: Volleyball, dance, golf, speech, theater, Minnesota Honor Society, peer helping, Where Everyone Belongs, choir, jazz choir, Spanish club and book club. Hobbies: Reading, baking, spending time at the lake. Future plans: Attend MSU Moorhead Memorable high school moment: When we made it to state in dance.
Parents: Darren and Denise Girtz. Extracurricular activities: Tennis, volleyball, basketball, Minnesota Honor Society, peer helping, Where Everyone Belongs, Encouraging Positive Influences and Choices and yearbook. Hobbies: Hanging out with friends and family, playing sports and spending time at the lake. Future plans: Attend College of St. Scholastica for nursing. Memorable high school moment: Playing our home playoff games for basketball this year.
Parents: Dennis and Domino Herold. Extracurricular activities: Volleyball, basketball, tennis, Minnesota Honor Society, Where Everyone Belongs, Encouraging Positive Influences and Choices, student council, yearbook and peer helping. Hobbies: My hobbies include hanging out at the lake in the summer, shopping, baking and hanging out with friends and family. Future plans: Attend University of Minnesota – Twin Cities to major in either mathematics or some type of engineering, possibly aerospace. Memorable high school moment: My most memorable high school moments involve being around my friends.
Parents: Troy and Rebecca Kapsner. Extracurricular activities: Minnesota Honor Society, peer helping, student council, Encouraging Positive Influences and Choices, yearbook, volleyball, tennis and track. Hobbies: Hanging out at the lake, skiing, running and being around my friends and family. Future plans: Attend NDSU to major in nursing. Memorable high school moment: My most memorable high school moments involve being around my friends.
CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2021 (218) 546-5133 46 133 201 1st Street SW • Crosby, MN 56441 Store Hours: Mon-Fri: 7AM - 6PM Sat: 8 AM - 3PM Visit us online at PartsCityAuto.com
Crosslake Town Square 218-692-2502
Steve Kappes Registered Pharmacist
Best GWishes R A D U AT E S !
CONGRATULATIONS
CLASS OF 2021!
Dairy Queen
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Congratulations Class of 2021! First National Bank wishes you happiness in your journey through life and a successful tomorrow!
Fair Dates: August 3-7 Crow Wing Fairgrounds PO Box 169, Brainerd, MN 56401
218-829-6680
www.crowwingcountyfair.com
CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2021
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Brainerd • 218-828-7000 Crosslake • 218-692-5200 Hackensack • 218-675-7575 Little Falls • 320-632-2381
EDINAREALTY.COM
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GRADUATION 2021
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SUNDAY, MAY 16, 2021 | BRAINERD DISPATCH
BRAINERDDISPATCH.COM
Pine River-Backus High School graduates Commencement: 7 p.m. June 4 in the Pine River-Backus performance gym. Students graduating: 62. Class colors: Orange, blue and silver. Class flower: White rose. Class motto: “Our lives are before us, our past is behind us, but our memories are forever with us.” Unknown author.
Class song: “I Lived” by OneRepublic. Quote from Principal Chris Halverson: “The 2020-2021 Pine River-Backus Graduating Class is a talented group of young adults! They have overcome much adversity and grown as individuals in the process. The evidence shows they are strong communicators, creative problem solvers, and passionate humanitarians. GO TIGERS!”
TOP STUDENTS
Rylie R li Hi Hirschey h
Olivia Oli i Adki Adkins
Hanna Milh H Milham
Valedictorian
Valedictorian
Salutatorian
Parents: Josh and Nicole Hirschey.
Parents: Kyle and Lori Adkins.
Extracurricular activities: Volleyball, basketball, student council, student government, National Honor Society, prom committee and STRIVE.
Extracurricular activities: Basketball, volleyball, NHS, STRIVE and jazz band.
Parents: Angela Flategraff and Charles Milham.
Hobbies: I love spending time with Jesus, four wheeling, water sports, reading and spending time with family and friends! Future plans: I will be attending The University of Northwestern-St. Paul this fall to major in nursing and minor in Bible! I will also be continuing my basketball career there, and hopefully my volleyball career as well. Part-time work: This summer I will be working at White Birch Golf Course and Minne-Teepee Resort.
Hobbies: Horseback riding, hanging out with friends and enjoying nature! Future plans: I plan to either attend NDSU or UNW-St. Paul in order to study biology. Part-time work: Horse training. This summer, I plan on working at the Country Doc Veterinary Clinic as a veterinary assistant. Memorable high school moment: Making memories with my team during summer basketball and volleyball. Class rank: 1.
Memorable high school moment: One of my favorite sports memories is going to the State Volleyball Tournament in 2017. Another one of my favorite memories with my classmates was when our bus broke down on the way back from our Valley Fair field trip and we played board games on the playground for a couple hours.
Extracurricular activities: Softball, dance, student council, National Honor Society and basketball managing. Hobbies: In my free time, I enjoy boating, shopping, traveling and socializing with friends and family. Future plans: In the fall I will be attending the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities to major in biology while taking prerequisites for medical school. Part-time work: I am a dock attendant at C&C Boatworks in Crosslake. Memorable high school moment: Covering an entire classroom, a student’s truck and other miscellaneous things with post-it notes before school hours. Class Rank: 3.
Class rank: 1.
Congratulations to all 2021 Graduates!
Congratulations Laurie Hall
326 W. Laurel St. Brainerd, MN (3 blocks South of Walgreens)
218-828-0460
Best Wishes Graduates! Salem Lutheran Church 21276 Archibald Road Deerwood, MN 56444 Pastor Michael Briggs
Open for worship: Sundays 9AM
3 Proud Locations to Serve You! Brainerd & Baxter • 218-270-3100 | Pequot Lakes 218-568-4898
CONGRATS GRADS!
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“Intelligence plus character— that is the goal of true education.” —Martin Luther King Jr.
Living Savior Lutheran Church
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GRADUATION 2021
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Staples-Motley High School graduates Commencement: 7:30 p.m. May 28, Staples-Motley High School football field. Students graduating: 78. Class colors: Red and gold. Class flower: Tiger Lily. Class motto: “If you want something you’ve never had, you’re gonna have to do something you’ve never done.”
Class song: “The Champion” by Carrie Underwood. Quote from Principal Mike Schmidt: “The Class of 2021 has earned the distinction of being the class that endured, persevered and accepted what was going to be a different Senior year. Through it all...they did just that along with generating creative ways to stay a class to make the most of it all.”
TOP STUDENTS
Tabetha T b th Allen All
Toriiii Ni T Nienow
Rose Han R H
Valedictorian
Valedictorian
Salutatorian
Parents: Kerry Allen and John Allen.
Parents: Lori and Adam Nienow.
Parent: Kathryn Edwards.
Wadena Deer-Creek graduates Commencement: 7 p.m. May 28, Wadena Deer-Creek High School gymnasium. Students graduating: 49. Class colors: Blue and gold. Class flower: Gerber daisy. Class motto: “We have come a long way, but not half as far as we will go.”
Quote from Principal Tyler Church: “Cancellations, interruptions, different learning models, masks, 6 feet apart. You name it, the Class of 2021 has had to do it. Wadena-Deer Creek could not have asked for a better group to lead us through all of the craziness. The maturity, sacrifice, and willingness to make the best out of a tough situation speaks to how truly great this class is. Well done Class of 2021!”
TOP STUDENTS Sara Goetz
Nevada Schultz
Anton Kreklau
Aiden Larson
Parents: Jane Goetze and David Goetze. Extracurricular activities: BPA, one act play, fall play, NHS, student council. Hobbies: Cats, theatre, reading, cats and more cats. Future plans: Attend MSU Moorhead for a degree in film production.
Parents: Dirk and Lois Schulz. Extracurricular activities: Tennis, basketball, knowledge bowl, student council, NHS. Hobbies: Shopping, being with my friends, getting/making coffee, reading and listening to music. Future plans: Attend MSUM in the fall.
Parents: Joe and Susan Kreklau. Extracurricular activities: Baseball, basketball, BPA, knowledge bowl, band/choir, jazz band, NHS. Hobbies: Hunting and fishing. Future plans: Attend NDSU and major in nursing.
Parents: Jesse and Stephanie Larson. Extracurricular activities: Football, basketball, track and field, NHS, band, choir, knowledge bowl. Hobbies: Hanging with friends and family, snowboarding, hunting. Future plans: Attend the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities and major in civil engineering and/or architecture.
Emma Mehl
Kade Woods
Myja Nemeth
Kira Sweeney
Parents: Jeff and Amy Mehl. Extracurricular activities: Cross-country, fall play, one act play, track and field, student council, National Honor Society. Hobbies: Reading, sewing, scrapbooking, running, skating. Future plans: Attend the University of Northwestern - St. Paul and major in communications.
Parents: Scott and Kim Woods. Extracurricular activities: Hockey, gold, football, National Honor Society, choir, knowledge bowl. Hobbies: Hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, dirt biking, being outdoors, hanging out with friends, playing sports. Future plans: Attend Lake Superior College to become an electrician.
Parents: Adan Nemeth and Rebecca Nemeth. Extracurricular activities: Yearbook, softball, figure skating. Hobbies: I enjoy painting, hunting, baking, camping and watching movies. Future plans: Attending Bemidji State University and majoring in mathematics.
Parents: Jerred and Tiffany. Extracurricular activities: Cross-country, track and field, student council, NHS. Hobbies: Running, skiing, kayaking, paddle boarding, hiking. Future plans: I plan on majoring in biology.
Moran Larson
Emma Bushinger
Parents: Michael and Michelle Larson. Extracurricular activities: BPA Hobbies: Sewing, art, singing, animals, family. Future plans: Attending college at MSUM fall semester 2021 as a criminal justice major with a minor in pre-law. I plan on becoming an attorney.
Parents: Chris and Julie Bushinger. Extracurricular activities: Band, basketball manager, choir, cross-country, class officer, drama, knowledge bowl, National Honor Society, student council, yearbook staff, jazz band. Hobbies: Singing, playing instruments, quilting, working out, reading and spending time outdoors. Future plans: Attend North Dakota State University to double major in music and psychology.
Class of
2021
Jaime L. Preble, DDS Jacob Held, DDS
CONGRATS
Office: 218-568-4940 | stonemarksurvey.com
218-587-4437
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Truth Lutheran Churchh
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GRADUATION 2021
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SUNDAY, MAY 16, 2021 | BRAINERD DISPATCH
Lake Region Christian School graduates Commencement: 7 p.m. May 28 at Lake Region Christian School. Students graduating: 6. Class colors: Blue, gold and black. Class verse: “Thou has beset me behind and before and laid Thine hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain unto it.” Psalms 138:5-6.
Crosslake Community School graduates
Quote from Principal Steve Ogren: “I am proud of the way that the class of 2021 handled all of the changes that came their way this year. They have adapted well and I have seen much growth in their lives. God has gifted them each in a unique way and it has been a privilege to help them develop those gifts for His glory. We will miss them!”
TOP STUDENTS
Commencement: 7 p.m. May 28 at the Pequot Lakes High School football field. Students graduating: 136 Class colors: Midnight blue and orchid purple. Class flower: Lotus. Class motto: “Reach for the sky,” Woody from “Toy Story.” Class song: “See You Again” by Wiz Khalifa featuring Charlie Puth. Quote from Principal Aaron Nelson: “The graduating class of 2021 has been distinguished by their forti-
Halle H ll W Wagner
Valedictorian
Salutatorian
Parents: Daniel and Wendy Moore.
Parents: Jillian and Wes Wagner.
Extracurricular activities: Basketball, volleyball, drama.
Extracurricular activities: Piano, basketball, handbells.
Hobbies: Painting, hunting, playing board games, baking.
Hobbies: Camping, snowboarding, boating with family and friends.
Future plans: I plan to attend Pensacola Christian College in Florida. I will be majoring in biology and someday hope to work at a big zoo.
Future plans: Study cybersecurity at the University of Northwestern St. Paul.
Memorable moment: Being able to participate in leadership camp. It was a good time of fellowship and getting to know my classmates.
Commencement: 7 p.m. Friday June 4, virtual on Facebook. Students graduating: 24. Class colors: Baby blue and white. Class flower: Lily. Class motto: “We are strong, never give up.” Class song: “Breakaway” by Kelly Clarkson. Quote from School Counselor and
Interim Co-leader Holly Amaya: “The Crosslake Community School Online Program’s class of 2021 has persisted through the challenges of 2020 and 2021 to reach this tremendous accomplishment! These students have been incredibly self-motivated to get through their online coursework and we are so proud of what they have accomplished!”
Pequot Lakes High School graduates
Whitlee D Whitl Danielle i ll M Moore
Part-time work: Fleet Farm.
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Part-time work: Nanny. Memorable moment: All the fun times in play practice with Ms. Kovacik and the cast!
tude and resolve, something forced on them unexpectedly and borne out of necessity. These students have been denied the traditions and experiences celebrated by seniors for decades and yet they have found their own ways of making this year special. Whether it be creating their own substitute for face to face connections during distance learning or ensuring special events can happen with modification, these Seniors have learned to overcome adversity by adapting to their new reality.”
Aitkin High School graduates Commencement: 7 p.m. June 4.
Crosby-Ironton High School graduates Commencement: May 21.
Congrats! Best of Luck!
Hope your Future is Dazzling
Congratulatons Allie Jo Wasson! 2021 C-I Grad! We Love you, Mom, Randy and Ben
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Congratulations Graduates. NOW GO OUT THERE AND BE AMAZING.
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587-2476 866-324-2476
WAY TO GO GRADUATES!
Best of Luck Graduates! 001731173r1
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CONGRATULATIONS GRADUATES!
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GRADUATION 2021
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COMMENTARY
Some words of advice for graduating seniors
I
By Robert St. John Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal, Tupelo
t’s graduation season. Granted, this year’s high school seniors have experienced an extremely weird junior and senior year. But the conclusion of this once-in-100-years craziness is nearing an end. It seems that in this part of the world we are, once again, hosting graduation ceremonies with caps, gowns, cords and commencement addresses. The world might have been a little better off for the lack of the latter, as I am sure no one ever remembers what was said during their graduation ceremony’s commencement address. When my two children went off to college, I wrote each of them letters and tucked the letters into the desk drawers of their dorm rooms just before leaving and saying my final goodbyes. I have combined and tweaked each of those letters to serve as this year’s unofficial 2021 commencement address to all Mississippi high school seniors. Dear graduates, there are two, seemingly unconventional, routes to success in your upcoming professional and personal life — through passion and fun.
The decision regarding your professional life should be the easiest decision you’ll ever make. Your career should be about one thing — passion. It took the first 20 years of my life to find my passion. But once I did, my career path was set. The minute I started working in restaurants I fell in love with the industry, instantly. I knew that was what I was “supposed” to do. I love restaurants. I eat, sleep and breathe restaurants. Restaurants are my hobby. Someone once said, “Do what you love to do for a career and you’ll never work a day in your life.” That is passion. It’s true. I do my hobby and I get paid for it. That is what I want for you. Success follows passion, every time. The second piece of advice is about fun. Go out and have fun. Seriously, it’s as simple as that. But it’s got to be the right kind of fun, and it’s got to come from the right kind of places. Having fun is where it gets a little trickier. It took me a much longer time to figure out how to be a success in my personal life, and how to find the true source of fun — it’s not at a frat party or at someone’s apartment at three in the morning. Granted, those things might be fun in a fleeting sort of way, but
you’re never going to achieve a fuller life at a frat party. After I graduated high school, I looked for fun in a lot of the wrong places, and I searched for fun for a long time. It was around the time that my children were born that the 40-year old me I figured out what life is all about — faith, family, friends, food and fun. Those things, in that order, are what lead to a full, fruitful, joyfilled and productive life. Graduates, befriend the underdog. Laugh a lot. Make others laugh a lot. Visit a nursing home (when it safe to do so again). Make them laugh a lot. Hug your parents long and hard. Hug them so long that they’re the ones who let go first. The next time you see your favorite teacher and give him or her a big hug. Thank them. If you don’t appreciate them today, I promise you that you will in the near future. Hug the teacher you liked least, too. They’re likely in need of a hug. They worked just as hard, you just don’t appreciate that, yet. Take care of your teeth. Walk a lot. Drink milk. Don’t hate. Stay in touch with your friends. Make new friends. Share a meal with your friends. Travel. Don’t ever compare your insides to other people’s
outsides, and always stay humble. When your head begins to swell, your mind stops growing. At the first sign of trouble, go to God first. The will of God will never take you where the grace of God won’t protect you (though your second call should be to a parent). They say, “Nothing will happen today that you and God can’t handle.” They are right. You will face challenges and setbacks over the next several years. Remember that despair is only a visiting moment, hope is always around the corner. I have learned that the difference between intention and decision is that intention is followed by more intentions. Decision is followed by action. Always take action. Never confuse pleasure with happiness. Trust me, there’s a difference. Ladies, always know that “no” is a complete sentence. Eat French fries. Be nice. Be bold. Behave. Spend time with your grandparents (when it’s safe to do so). Love your neighbor. Love your neighbor’s neighbor. Love your neighbor’s grandparents. Make mistakes. Then don’t sweat the mistakes you make. Go out and make more mistakes, you’ll get it right eventually. Forgive others for their mistakes. Floss every
day. Don’t be so hard on yourself. Don’t be so hard on others. Just make it a general rule not to be hard. Volunteer where you feel led. Don’t just “give back.” To “give back” you have to have received something first. Just “give,” then give some more. Give of your time, give of your resources and give your love. When you think you’ve given enough, then give even more. Know to your core that the best things in life aren’t things, and until you give up the idea of happiness being somewhere else, you’ll never find it. Give of yourself and give of your time. The only thing we take from this world when we leave is what we gave away. Now is a great time to start giving. Your life will truly begin when you stop expecting the world to give you something and you start trying to figure out what you can give to the world. Share your happiness. Count your blessings. And when all else fails, follow directions. Know that life is short, but it’s the longest thing we’ll ever do. So have fun, be kind, and call your parents. Robert St. John is a restaurateur, chef and author. Find him at robertstjohn.com. (c)2021 the Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal (Tupelo, Miss.). Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Photo illustration by Metro Newspaper Service
Congratulations Graduates From all of us! GARDINER’S HARDWARE & FURNITURE 587-2585 Downtown Pine River
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Challenge to the yearbook staff: How to document senior year when COVID-19 has emptied schools By Lois K. Solomon South Florida Sun Sentinel If you’re looking for a demanding job, try being a high school yearbook editor during COVID-19. There are no pep rallies, concerts, plays or cafeteria antics to document for posterity. Most students are learning from home, including the yearbook staff. Hardly anyone is on campus to interview or photograph. Still, a yearbook has to be produced, and the pressure is on to commemorate a year that provided some remarkable experiences in spite of a wicked virus. Challenges plagued yearbook writers from the beginning. There was no one around to talk to for standard features on fashion, friendship and the best part of being a senior. “We couldn’t knock on a classroom door to ask a question,” said Sean Delaney, yearbook adviser at Spanish River High in Boca Raton, where only about half of students are attending in-person. “It was extremely difficult to interview people. We had to spike an entire junior varsity sports spread because we weren’t getting any help from coaches, students or players. “We had to become creative out of necessity.” Sports teams did play this year, a bright spot for photographs to fill pages. At Western High in Davie, both the girls’ and boys’ basketball teams broke school records, recorded in detail in dramatic yearbook spreads. “I hope the yearbook brings a positive light on the situation we’re in,” said Priscilla Renje, co-editor in chief of Western’s yearbook. “It shows that even though we’re in a pandemic, we’re still doing all these amazing things.” Students in Broward, Palm Beach and Miami-Dade counties had the choice this year of learning in a traditional classroom or taking that same class at home on the computer. Most chose remote learning. Only about 400 of 3,500 students at Western are learning at school this year. Seeing how challenging it would be to find on-campus stories, the staff decided to focus on individual tales of pandemic perseverance. They found a student who was injured in a car accident vigorously exercising each day and students who started their own businesses, such as custom shoe designing or baking. Still, sales have been slow. Renje said the school has usually sold around 800
Photos by Carline Jean / South Florida Sun Sentinel/TNS
Spanish River High yearbook editors Kori Ernst, Savannah Garrett and Madison Lucco working on their high school yearbook. yearbooks by now, but only 400 so far this year. Cost for the 350-page book is $50 to $85, depending whether the buyer paid early in the year or near the end. The widespread problem of lack of photo opportunities forced yearbooks to ask students and teachers to send in their own iPhone shots and selfies. These were often of poor quality and unusable. The yearbook staff at A.W. Dreyfoos School of the Arts in West Palm Beach brainstormed how to handle their photo challenges and settled on making creative use of large headlines and text. An arts-focused public high school, Dreyfoos in previous years flourished as a place where students danced and played their instruments in their classrooms, the cafeteria, in the breezeways and on the lawns, creating abundant fodder for yearbook photos. But this year, only about half of students are on campus, and the school produced virtual concerts and plays without live audiences. Some classes have only four students in person, said yearbook editor Isabella Ramirez, who has been attending her classes remotely. “So much of the school experience at Dreyfoos is tied to the campus,” Ramirez said. “We are all like-minded individuals who are passionate about the arts. I was used to shuffling around the classroom and looking over people’s shoulders to check on pages. I would be at the computer with them and my hand would be on
Spanish River High yearbook editors Kori Ernst, Savannah Garrett and Madison Lucco have been working on their high school yearbook from home. their mouse. Not being in that space makes you feel detached.” At Coral Springs High School, this detachment became clear when underclassmen were supposed to come to campus for yearbook portraits. Although most seniors showed up at the designated photography studio, only 18% of underclassmen came to school for their individual shoots, said Bradley Lyons, the school’s yearbook adviser. Not surprising, since only about 15% of Coral Springs High students are learning on campus this year. Yearbook staffers also had to figure out how to document the pandemic. Should it
permeate the entire book, or be relegated to a few pages? At Cypress Bay High in Weston, where about 600 of 4,800 students are learning on campus, the yearbook staff tackled the year chronologically and tried to make sure COVID-19 “didn’t overwhelm the book,” yearbook adviser Ashley Poitras said. Pictures of COVID-related signs, warning students to keep their distance from each other, are especially prevalent in the beginning of the book, Poitras said. But as the months wear on, the chapters emphasize other aspects of student life, such as mask-less faces at lunchtime, when students can take off their face coverings to eat,
she said. Kori Ernst, co-editor in chief for Spanish River’s yearbook, said her staff considered a separate chapter on COVID but decided to incorporate it throughout the book. The emphasis, she said, is on how 2020-21 was a life-changing year that still had goofy, creative and entertaining moments that are typical of high school life. “We wanted to make it as normal as possible,” Ernst said. ©2021 the Sun Sentinel (Fort Lauderdale, Fla.) Visit the Sun Sentinel (Fort Lauderdale, Fla.) at www.sun-sentinel.com Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. ©2021 Tribune Content Agency, LLC
Congratulations Graduates!
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Countdown to college
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GRADUATION 2021
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Wait-list fundamentals dents on a wait list, it will ask them to respond Within days, all admis- as to whether they want sions decisions will be to stay on the wait list complete, all notifications or if they’ve already made will have been made, and other plans and accepted we’ll all be watching the (or will accept) an offer from another school. fabulous tear-jerking vidAfter dealing with not eos of deserving students being accepted, students finding out they’ve been and their parents need accepted into their dream to determine which of schools. the colleges where they But this year, more stuwere accepted represents dents than ever will find the best fit academically, themselves on the wait list. socially and for the famThe wait list, common- ily financially. If there is ly referred to as “admis- a clear winner, then the sions purgatory,” is that process is over. Otherwise, ugly and uncomfortable families need to evaluate gray area: They didn’t like the wait-list opportuniyou enough to accept you, ties. and they didn’t hate you It’s important to be enough to reject you. realistic about finances. It Students will need to would be a rare occurrence make a decision and a for a wait-listed student deposit at a college where to receive merit-based aid. they were accepted by May Need-based aid is more 1. When a college puts stu- likely, but colleges will not By Lee Shulman Bierer Tribune News Service
necessarily meet 100 percent of need. The wait list is all about the yield: what percentage of accepted students will choose to deposit and attend each institution. The national average for yield is 33.6 percent, which means that two-thirds of students are rejecting the offers of admission that they receive. This year, wait lists are longer and yield numbers are likely to be much lower. It makes sense, because a student applies to multiple colleges and universities and hopefully receives multiple acceptances, but a student can only attend one school. Colleges wish their yield was 100 percent; it would make their jobs much, much easier. The dynamics of the wait list vary from college to college and may greatly
vary from year to year. The big problem comes when colleges invite thousands of students to be on their wait list and then find out, after May 1, that their yield increased. Then they have no open spots for students on the wait list. In fact, they may be panicking that they don’t have enough beds for incoming freshmen who have already said yes. Colleges do their best to predict yield, but it’s a risky game. All of this is to say that there is really no accurate predictive measure to determine how many spots there will be. “Essentially, the wait list exists to accommodate for demographics that were not met in the initial round of admission offers,” says Rick Clark, director of undergraduate admissions at Georgia
Tech (www.gatech.edu). “If you have the right number of deposits from the West coast, you go to your wait list for more East Coast students. If you have enough chemistry majors, you may be going to the wait list for business students. Ultimately, the job of admission deans and directors is to make and shape the class, as defined by institutional priorities. Meeting target enrollment is critical to bottom line revenue, creating a desired ethos on campus, proliferating the school’s brand and other factors.” So, while there are things you can do to improve your wait-list chances, much is out of your control.
to encourage that student to choose to attend. One of the ways that colleges reached out to accepted students and their families before the pandemic is through “accepted students days.” These were often full-day visitation programs starting in March and running through April. All accepted students and families were invited, with colleges targeting students who received multiple offers and were trying to decide. All bets are off this year due to COVID-19. Some schools are open only to seniors with offers of admission, and some are
closed to everyone. It’s important to check each school’s policy on a regular basis. If you are able to visit, it can be a wonderful opportunity to not only see the campus but validate the academic fit of the school. If you’re unable to visit, make sure you’re doing your due diligence on the academics, and watch some videos to try to get a more accurate sense of the vibe and the social fit.
©2021 Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Lee Shulman Bierer is an independent college adviser based in Charlotte, N.C. Visit her website College Admissions Strategies.
How to make the final decision By Lee Shulman Bierer Tribune News Service
count yourselves among the lucky ones. Now is the The colleges have made time to revisit colleges, at their decisions, and now least virtually, and really students are in the driv- kick the tires to determine which school represents er’s seat. By May 1, stuthe best fit. dents must notify the colIf a college accepted lege they choose to attend. your child, they want them All students, even those to attend, and some colwho received notification leges will be very aggresthat they are on a col- sive in trying to influence lege’s wait list, must send your decision. Your stuin a deposit somewhere by dent will no doubt be the May 1 to assure that they recipient of much college will have a spot in the paraphernalia (magnets, freshman class. bumper stickers, etc.) and If your student was may even be swamped accepted to more than one with solicitous emails and of his or her reach or tar- phone calls. get schools and is havColleges aspire to ing a tough time deciding, increase their yield rate
— i.e., the number of students who accept their offer of admission. Harvard’s yield rate is listed at 82 percent in the 2021 edition of the Princeton Review’s “Best 386 Colleges.” That means more than four of every five students who were accepted to Harvard chose to go there. A yield rate above 50 percent is considered high, and with so many students applying to so many more colleges today, some colleges are struggling to keep up their yield rates this year. The point here is that once a college accepts a student, it is in their self-interest
Lee Shulman Bierer is an independent college adviser based in Charlotte, N.C. Visit her website College Admissions Strategies. ©2021 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Congrats Grads! THE BACKUS AMERICAN LEGION “Where good folks go for a good time”
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Proud financial supporters of student scholarships and other education and extracurricular programs. backuslegion368@outlook.com backuslegion.com • 947-3156
Congratulations to our scholarship winners and all area graduates! BEST WISHES CLASS OF 2021!
Brainerd BN Credit Union
Member Friendly - Service Driven
804 Laurel Street, Brainerd 829-9065
Best Wishes to all area graduates!
1420 S. Sixth Street, Brainerd 218-829-5147 trinitybrainerd.org
Congrats to all graduates and scholarship winners!
Brainerd
Eagles Aerie #287
“Community involvement — people helping people”
Brainerd Elks #615
215 S. 9th Street, Brainerd • www.brainerdelks.org 829-2643 after 3pm
Advanced Manufacturing a u actu g Careers Ca ee s CNC Machinist ~ CNC Fabricators
218-829-4216
124 Front Street, Brainerd
Happy Graduation!
Precision Machining • Fabrication • Assembly
Congratulations Graduates! OF
2021 620 W. WASHINGTON ST., BRAINERD, MN 56401 Mon-Fri–8am-7pm I Sat–8am-5pm
218-829-3597 800-222-0434 tannermotors.net
Lutheran Church of the Cross The Evan Th E Evangelical vangeli gelical licall Luth L theran Chu Lutheran C Church h rch in Ameri hu A America merica meri ca
A career of innovation, ingenuity, and stability awaits in Manufacturing.
www.pequottool.com 5064 County Road 13, Nisswa www.lccnisswa.org • 218-963-2564
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GRADUATION 2021
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SUNDAY, MAY 16, 2021 | BRAINERD DISPATCH
BRAINERDDISPATCH.COM
Graduation gifts 2021 A huge list of ideas for all grads By Nicolette Accardi nj.com Graduation season is officially here. Whether it’s a family member or friend graduating from school in 2021, there are gifts out there for people of all ages. Want to give a graduation gift that’s a little more creative and personal than just cash or a gift card? Look no further than below, a list (in no particular order) of 27 graduation gift ideas. All are available for purchase online right now, and most ship out relatively quickly. 1. Luggage from Away 2. Bed sheets, robes or towels from Brooklinen 3. An iRobot Roomba from Amazon
4. A weighted blanket from Luna or from Layla Sleep 5. A smoothie maker from NutriBullet 6. A tote bag or a backpack from Everlane 7. A travel mug from Yeti 8. A stainless steel water bottle from S’well 9. A portable coffee maker from Amazon or from Walmart 10. Socks from Happy Socks 11. A scent-of-home candle from Homesick 12. A laptop bag from Nordstrom 13. An Instant Pot from Amazon 14. A wallet from Bellroy 15. A meal kit subscription from Blue Apron or from Sunbasket 16. A Soda stream from Walmart
17. Headphones from Bose 18. A graduation clock from Etsy 19. A laptop computer from Walmart 20. Apple air pods from Amazon 21. A Ring Light kit (for those Zoom calls) from B&H Photo Video 22. A personalized planner from Papier 23. A fully loaded alarm clock from Amazon 24. Jewelry from Kendra Scott or from Gorjana 25. A clothing subscription box from Trunk Club or from StitchFix 26. A smart speaker from Amazon 27. An electric toothbrush from Oral B ©2021 Advance Local Media LLC. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Photo illustration by Metro Newspaper Service
Best Wishes to the 2021 Graduates! www.shannonsautobody.com 218.829.6764
13540 IRONWOOD DRIVE BRAINERD, MN 56401 HOURS MONDAY - FRIDAY 8AM-5PM
Shannon’s Auto Body has provided auto body repair in Brainerd, MN since 1996. We go above and beyond to make sure you receive the repair services you deserve. We can repair vehicles of every make and model. Our company is an I-CAR Gold Class Member, ASE Certified, and Sikkens Waterborne Certified.
Our team is committed to 100% customer satisfaction. Choose Shannon’s Auto Body for Collision Repair in Brainerd, MN & Beyond We are proud to provide service to customers across Aitkin County, Cass County, and Crow Wing County.