n o i t a u d ra
2016
G
ALVIN HIGH SCHOOL Valedictorian Shalini Lakshmi & Salutatorian Kyli Bingham
MANVEL HIGH SCHOOL Valedictorian Bushra Hamid & Salutatorian Dina Zamil
ASSETS ACADEMY Valedictorian Bridget Byrd Salutatorian Amber Khan
SUPPLEMENT TO THE ALVIN ADVERTISER MAY 25, 2016
Congratulations 2016 Senior Classes
39 Locations for your convenience! Visit www.MetalMarts.com for your nearest location!
3539 N. Bypass 35 Alvin, TX 77511 281-824-8109
Page 2 • Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016
AISD high school valedictorians, salutatorians Alvin
ASSETS
Manvel
Valedictorian Shalini Lakshmi with her favorite teacher, Ashley Miller.
Valedictorian Bridget Byrd with her favorite teacher, Gregory Rye.
Valedictorian Bushra Hamid with her favorite teacher, Pamela Blades.
Salutatorian Kyli Bingham with her favorite teacher, Fred Lewis.
Salutatorian Amber Khan with her favorite teacher, Anna Sergeeva.
Dina Zamil with her favorite teacher, Hans Infante.
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Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. • Extended hours til’ 6 in August
Proud Supporter
Congratulations Class of 2016!
Jason Washington
Servicing all local areas
(832) 766-9739
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Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016 • Page 3
Page 4 • Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016
Alvin High School top graduates
ALVIN HIGH SCHOOL
DILLON T. HARRIS CONGRATULATIONS AND BEST WISHES ON ALL YOUR TOMORROWS!
No. 3 Kendall Hertenberger with her favorite teacher, Teresa Witt.
No. 4 Valerie Henson with her favorite teacher, Michelle Harrold.
No. 5 Alyssa Barker with her favorite teacher, Kelley Smith.
No. 6 Jena Jones with her favorite teacher, Tracy Mathis.
No. 7 Becca Rodriguez with her favorite teacher, Donna Ruby.
No. 8 Taylor Horsfall with her favorite teacher, Suzy Buechele.
Dad, Gina, & Grandparents ALVIN HIGH SCHOOL Congratulations to our angel. We are so proud of you! Mom, Dad, Mamaw, Grandma & Grandpa Oxsheer & Family
EMILY RENÉ OXSHEER
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Way To Go Senior Class of 2016 - We Honor Your Accomplishments!
Keith S. Schauder M.D.
Orthopedic Surgery & Sports Medicine One Medic Lane • Alvin, TX 77511 • (281) 331-3100
2016
Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016 • Page 5
Alvin High School top graduates CONGRATULATIONS!
No. 9 Rosemary Gonzalez with her favorite teacher, Carlene Leal.
No. 10 Kristen Graham with her favorite teacher, Chad McWhirter.
No. 11 Austyn Dungen with her favorite teacher, George Stokes.
214 W. COOMBS • 281-331-4852 HOURS: TUES. - FRI. 9-6 P.M. , SAT. 9-4:30 P.M.
Great Job! Congratulations Senior Classes of 2016 Parks Restaurant
2422 S. Gordon • Alvin • 281-585-5046 CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED
No. 12 Andrew Wilson with his favorite teacher, Chad Bowen.
No. 13 Madison Bochard with her favorite teacher, Marie Tucker.
No. 14 Casey Holley with her favorite teacher, Scott Gonzales.
Memorial Day
Art & Craft Festival Sat. & Sun., May 28 & 29 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. - both days
Alvin Parking Lot at Krogers
3100 S. Gordon 45 Booths • Unique Handcrafted Items For Booth Information Call 281-451-7728 or 281-482-1876 No. 15 Mason Mills with his favorite teacher, Gerald Oberg.
No. 16 Anthony Vasquez with his favorite teacher, Marguerite Bagwell.
No. 17 Kathryn Griffith with her favorite teacher, Vincincia Wright.
Congratulations Seniors! 1113 S. Johnson • Alvin (right across from Alvin High School)
Page 6 • Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016
Congratulations To All The 2016 Graduates And To The Frontier Day Scholarship Recepients Each Scholarship is $1,000
Thomas Blakeney Memorial Scholarship: Bridget Byrd from Assets Perfect Attendance Scholarship: Christian Alarcon from Manvel High Bill Walsh Scholarship: Garrett Gray from Alvin High Carlos Vela Scholarship: Katherine Jernigan from Alvin High David and Roxana Boudreau Scholarship: Jessica Echegoyen from Manvel High Jim Schwind Memorial Scholarship: Jena Jones from Alvin High
Interact Scholarship: Becca Rodriguez from Alvin High Alvin Rotary Endowed Scholarship: Chantelle Siewart from Alvin High Elmer Dezso Memorial Scholarship: Jonathan Medrano from Alvin High Clyde Shepherd Scholarship: Kyli Bingham from Alvin High Neal Nelson Scholarship: Madison Bochard from Alvin High Beryl Cline Scholarship: Kristina Heng from Alvin High
Thank you to the Community for your attendance and making Frontier Days a Success!
Thank You Frontier Day Sponsors The Alvin Rotary Club would like to Thank the following sponsors as well as the many local citizens who bought tickets in the Club 100 raffle and for making this a very successful Frontier Day Celebration. All proceeds from Frontier Day will be given back to the Local and International community throughout the year.
Ron Carter Automotive Dealership HomeTown Bank of Alvin Texas Advantage Community Bank
Alvin Convention & Visitors Bureau
HEB Alvin Animal Clinic Alvin Equipment Company
Fairway Square Apartments Center Point Energy Stanton’s Shopping Center
Southern Global Safety Services, Inc.
A C U of Texas Appelt Electric, Inc. Auto Zone Burr Insurance
Scott Funeral Home First National Bank of Alvin Helpenstill Construction, LLC Stacy L. Adams,
Scott Keithley Ins. Agency General Polymer Services Jeter Memorial Funeral Home BBVA Compass Bank
Brazoria County Commissioner Pct. 3
Please Support the Above Local Sponsors!!
Alvin Rotary Club
Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016 • Page 7
Alvin High School Top Ten
No. 20 Vanessa Alcantar with her favorite teacher, Araceli Torres.
ALVIN HIGH SCHOOL
ADRIAN GARCIA The top 10 graduates from Alvin High School are, front row, from left: Valerie Henson, Alyssa Barker, Becca Rodriguez and Rosemary Gonzalez; back row: Taylor Horsfall, Kendall Hertenberger, Jena Jones, Kyli Bingham, Shalini Lakshmi and Kristen Graham. We accept information from Colleges and Universities about local graduates
Ismael and Maria Garcia would like to announce the High School Graduation of their son, Adrian Garcia! Way to go, we love you!!
From Mom, Dad, Efren, Scrumps and G-Ma!!!
CONGRATULATIONS
No. 18 Ethan Tribble with his favorite teacher, Paul Summa.
No. 19 Ester Jimenez with her favorite teacher, Jennifer Bibb.
ALVIN HIGH SCHOOL
ALISON KATE CONN CONGRATULATIONS!
Love, Dad, Mom, Walker & Hunter
ALFRED FROBERG III We are so blessed for the opportunity to watch you grow to be the fine young man that you have become. We are grateful for your dedication in accomplishing your goal. May God continue to bless you and prosper you at UTSA!
Love you Bubba, Dad, Mom, Ashley, Clara & Grandma
CLASS OF 2016
Page 8 • Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016
Congratulations 2016 Graduates!
Elizabeth H. Nelson, CPA
Manvel High School top graduates
• Tax • Accounting • Payroll & Litigation Support Services
20351 Highway 6 • P.O. Box 650 • Manvel, TX 77578
281- 489-0388 beth@nelsoncpafirm.com
ns!
atio ratul
Cong
No. 3 is Anna Rader, with favorite teacher, Tracie Lee.
No. 4 is Conner Stewart, with favorite teacher, Justin Zendt.
No. 5 is Rebeca Chacko, with favorite teacher, Jade Stenger.
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Alvin Wants to Say THANKS to Our Following Sponsors: This year’s Project Graduation will be held at Funplex Houston
Wal-Mart Toyota of Alvin Ron Carter Autoland Alvin Apparel Diversified Finishes, LLC. David & Yvette Hall – Reyes Realty Alvin American Little League Essie Belle Plumbing The Alvin Sun & Advertiser Newspaper
John Barron State Farm Claron Salter-Clarke State Farm Smokin Fatty’s RiceTec Alvin Chiropractic Center – Dr. Jeter Alvin Dental Care – Dr. Fournier Hometown Bank of Alvin Primary Eye Care Center Mad Hatter Rentals
Scott Funeral Home Buddy’s Old Time Service The Art of Aesthetics Independent Insurance Counselors Big Kountry Gun Range Mike and Sylvia Williams Gordon Street Tavern Wellborne Cinema
We would also like to send a BIG THANK YOU to the following parents who were a tremendous help, and could not have done it without you! Corey Wanat Clarissa Edmonds Delinda Branham
Frank and Christina Fox-Naranjo Debra and Tony Cortez Marilyn Rodriguez
Pam and Gary Webster Leta Thurman Ida Salinas
From Our Board Members
Stephanie Hernandez – President Joe Magnuson - Vice President
Elizabeth McClanahan Laura Mooney Kendra and Gerry Martinez
Jason Wanat – Treasurer Rebecca Birdwell – Secretary
Congratulations Alvin High School Class of 2016 Jacket Pride Never Dies!
2016
Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016 • Page 9
Manvel High School top graduates
No. 6 is Paola Obispo, with favorite teacher, Kushana Collier.
No. 7 is Gabrielle Alvarez, with favorite teacher, Kris Clancy.
No. 8 is Stebin Samuel, with favorite teacher, Jacqueline LaBelle.
No. 9 is Cloveil Napata, with favorite teacher, Victoria Satterwhite.
Congratulations! MANVEL HIGH SCHOOL
FRANK VARGAS, JR. We Are Proud Of You! Congratulations And Wishing You Continued Success!
Always, Mom & Dad
Page 10 • Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016
Manvel High School top graduates
ALVIN HIGH SCHOOL
ALISON KATE CONN CONGRATULATIONS! We Love You!
Derwood & Cindy Conn Betty & Buddy Nabours
No. 10 is LeAnn Thai, with favorite teacher, Tanya MeineckeSmith.
No. 11 is Mark Gannon, with favorite teacher, Lisa Staup.
No. 12 is Keiran Crain, with favorite teacher, Cody Wade.
No. 13 is Kathy Nguyen, with favorite teacher, Michelle McEuen.
No. 14 is Michael Mejia, with favorite teacher, Monica Silva.
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Great Job 2016 Graduates!
1050 North Bypass 35 • (281) 388-5000 • htbna.com
Congratulations 2016 Graduates! MANVEL HIGH SCHOOL
RAYMOND CASTILLO We wish you all the best in your future endeavors, CONGRATULATIONS! WE LOVE YOU! Love, Mom, Eleazar, Nana, Popo, Marc & Liz
Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016 • Page 11
Manvel High School top graduates
Congratulations!
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ALVIN HIGH SCHOOL No. 15 is Cecilia Cisneros, with favorite teacher, John Gallagher.
No. 16 is Mark Returan, with favorite teacher, Corky Reyna.
No. 17 is Brenda Loredo, with favorite teacher, Lenita Reed.
We accept information from Colleges & Universities about local graduates
No. 18 is Gianeen Magno, with favorite teacher, Elaine White.
No. 19 is Ulissa Calix, with favorite teacher, Scott Sharp.
Alvin High School commencement will be held May 28 at 3 p.m. in the Hofheinz Pavilion at the University of Houston on 3422 Cullen Blvd.
No. 20 is Miriam Green, with favorite teacher, Jennifer Gallagher.
Manvel High School graduation will be held May 28 at 10 a.m. in the Hofheinz Pavilion at the University of Houston on 3422 Cullen Blvd. ASSETS Academy ceremonies will be held May 29 at 2 p.m. in the Manvel High School auditorium
RALLEY JOHN PATTERSON Wishing you a bright & successful future! CONGRATULATIONS! We Love You! Mom & Dad
Bank on A Bright Future
First State Bank “The Name You Can Trust Since 1958”
Page 12 • Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016
Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016 • Page 13
Manvel High top ten
ALVIN HIGH SCHOOL
ALEX CHANDLER GADDY The top 10 students from Manvel High School are, front row, from left: Cloveil Napata, Gabrielle Alvarez, Dina Zamil and Anna Rader; back row: Paola Obispo, Rebeca Chacko, LeAnn Thai, Bushra Hamid, Stebin Samuel and Conner Stewart
Congratulations Class of 2016!
Enjoy graduation, but get ready for life after Graduation season, an oft-emotional time of great celebration and reflection, is on the horizon. Though soon-to-be graduates are about to have one set of challenges firmly behind them, other important life decisions and experiences are looming in the not-too-distant future. Although there’s no magic set of rules for post-graduation, the following advice can help recent graduates transition from the classroom to the ceremony and then life after school. •Attend the graduation ceremony. Graduating students may debate whether or not to attend their graduation ceremonies. Such ceremonies tend to be lengthy, and outdoor affairs can be hot and uncomfortable. However, graduation is a milestone moment that you won’t get to enjoy again. Attending graduation allows you one last academic experience, and even if that may seem like too meaningful right now, you might regret skipping the ceremony down
the road. •Enjoy graduation but buckle down once the dust settles. According to a survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, the job market for new graduates is improving marginally. But the Institute for College Access and Success notes that many college graduates will be saddled with around $25,000 in debt upon earning their degrees. Many student loans have a six-month repayment grace period after graduation, so new grads who don’t already have a job lined up may want to use some of that grace period to travel, visit distant relatives or relax and recharge before their first payment comes due. Use the time wisely, but be prepared to buckle down when the time comes to start repaying loans. •Join an alumni association. Regardless of the size of your school, chances are strong they have a local alumni association and several See After, page 31
2016
“Best Roofer” WINDSTORM CERTIFIED Licensed & Insured
Congrats baby; so proud! Never stop being you!
Love Always, Mom & Dad
ROOFING
In Business 29 Years Locally Owned and Operated with Many Years Experience!
Congratulations 2016 Graduates We take pride in doing the job right the first time! If You Need a Roof, We’re Here For You. We Stand Behind Our Work and Take Great Pride in Keeping Our Customers Happy!
For Your Roofing Needs Call
281-388-0202
Page 14 • Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016
Put that high school diploma on display
SUCCESS! Congratulations to Hunter & Valeria and all of our area’s graduates on a job well done.
Best of Luck to you!
eee
Graduation season is upon us, and grads everywhere are lining up to receive their diplomas and degrees, which represent years of hard work and discipline. Diplomas may be simple sheets of paper, but those sheets of paper are symbolic of so much more. Yet too often diplomas end up collecting dust in a box somewhere instead of being displayed in a home. There may be plenty of reasons why diplomas end up going from commencement ceremonies to shelves in the back of closets. Some just cannot find a way or a place to display their diplomas without feeling as if they are boasting about their accomplishments. Diplomas incorporated into a larger collection of items can become eye-catching components of home décor. • Practice feng shui. The principles of feng shui suggest the “fame” area of a home is the central area along the wall opposite the front door. A “power” area also exists in the center of the wall opposite the main entrance door. Such areas make ideal spots to display diplomas, awards and trophies that remind you of times of personal triumph. If anyone asks, let them know that you’re dabbling in feng shui and these displays are fueling the fire of future success in your career and life. • Create a gallery wall. Certificates and diplomas can be matted and framed just like any other piece of artwork. When mixed and
matched with other framed pieces, they create a subtle, rather than boastful, effect. These certificates will blend into home décor and be part of a larger gallery look, providing visual interest and conversation pieces. • Establish a home office. Diplomas are tailor-made for home offices. When hung behind a desk, diplomas can give a home office a professional feel. Diplomas and other awards also can be housed on book shelves and mixed in with other symbols of academia, like ribbons, sports trophies and photos of classmates. • Design a digital display. Modest graduates may not want their diplomas in full view at all times. Awards can be scanned into a computer and turned into digital images. Include an image of your degree in a reel that includes photos from your years in academia. The images will rotate in a digital picture frame. Update the display from time to time to keep it interesting. • Put together a portfolio. You may want to scrapbook awards and diplomas as you would other milestones in life. Purchase a sturdy binder and slip the awards into clear, protective covers. The binder can be stored on a bookshelf and pulled out whenever you want to revisit your years in school. • Create a shadow box. Fill a shadow box with the diploma and some other mementos from See Dipolma, page 31
ALVIN HIGH SCHOOL
STEFAN ROBINSON We are so very proud of you! CONGRATULATIONS!
Your Family
Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016 • Page 15
ALVIN HIGH
Class of
2016
2016
SCHOOL
ANGELINA RAMIREZ
Congratulations, We love you! Dad & Mom & Nathaniel & Marcos Jr.
ALVIN HIGH SCHOOL CONGRATS! We are so proud of you! Follow your dreams! Love, Mom, Dad, Cayla, & Brooke
Congratulations! Go on and do what you love! Love, Tia Lisa
ASSETS Academy
BRITTANY CHEYENNE ADWELL Celebrating Over 34 Years of Caring For Your Children
SENIOR CLASS COLORS Rose Gold and Silver SENIOR CLASS FLOWER Purple Iris SENIOR CLASS MOTTO Our glory consists not in never failing, but in rising each time we fall! SENIOR CLASS SONG “Good Riddance” by Green Day
• Ages Infants to 12 Years • NCI Payments Accepted • Video Monitored Classrooms • 4 Large Shaded Playgrounds • Bible Based Curriculum
Page 16 • Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016 Page 16 • Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016
Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016 • Page 17 Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016 • Page 17
We Salute the 2016
Alvin, Manvel & ASSETS Academy Graduates
Alvin High School
Manvel High School
ASSETS Academy
Page 18 • Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016
ALVIN HIGH SCHOOL
WADE ELLIS HERING Congratulations Wade! We Love You!
Mom, Dad, Brittany, & the rest
Congratulations Senior Class of 2016! Praying for you to have wisdom with understanding, courage to take a risk with sound decision making, strong convictions with a compassionate heart. GOD speed as you follow your dreams!
Alvin High School CLASS SONG “I’ll Be There For You” (“Friends” theme song) CLASS COLOR Black CLASS FLOWER Ruby Red Rose
Robin Ramirez Realtor ®
112 S. Gordon Alvin, TX 77511 www.weeksric.com
Direct: 713-305-8160 Office: 281-993-3707 nanarobi@yahoo.com
CLASS MOTTO “Our lives are before us, our past is behind us, our memories are forever within us”
Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016 • Page 19
Support The Advertisers Who Bring You This Special Section.
Manvel High School CLASS FLOWER Sunflower CLASS SONG “We’re All In This Together” from “High School Musical” MOTTO We made it; be great CLASS COLOR Blue, Silver and Red
Congratulations Seniors
Pol. Adv. Paid for by Friends of Ed Thompson
We accept information from Colleges and Universities about local graduates
Congratulations
Caleb Jeter
WE LOVE YOU!!
Dad & Mom
WAY TO GO!!! Alvin Senior Caleb Jeter receives the 2016 Stapp Maxwell Top Male Athlete of the Year Award at the recent Alvin High School Sports Awards presentation.
Caleb Jeter & Head Baseball Coach George Banda
Page 20 • Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016
Support The Advertisers Who Bring You This Special Section. Congratulations Seniors! From Your Alvin
207 E. South Street • 281-585-5188
Loans up to $10,000
Alvin High School commencement will be held May 28 at 3 p.m. in the Hofheinz Pavilion at the University of Houston on 3422 Cullen Blvd. Manvel High School graduation will be held May 28 at 10 a.m. in the Hofheinz Pavilion at the University of Houston on 3422 Cullen Blvd. ASSETS Academy ceremonies will be held May 29 at 2 p.m. in the Manvel High School auditorium
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Congratula tions Graduates !
We Appreciate Your Business!
Graduation season means gift giving for some people. The gifts don’t have to be flashy, think practical. (Contributed photo)
Gift ideas for the soon-to-be grads What graduate doesn’t wish to find a new car with a big bow on top in the driveway? While it would be nice to begin a new phase in life with a fresh set of wheels, many gift-givers tend to lean toward more practical items when buying gifts for recent graduates. Though they might not prove as flashy as a new car, the following gifts can still excite and help students who are going off to work or continuing their educations. • Resume service: In this competitive job market, individuals need to take advantage of every opportunity to stand out from the crowd. Résumé rules have changed, and graduates will be best served by companies that know the ins and outs of writing effective résumés. Employers often use digital scanning software to sift through applicants, so knowing which keywords and tags to use can ensure a résumé gets noticed. Costs can range from $100 to $200, depending on the services desired. • Electronics: Technology changes on a dime, and it benefits graduates to be equipped with the
latest gadgets. A new tablet, laptop or desktop computer may make a great gift. If the price tag is a little high, consider pooling resources with other family members or friends and give electronics as a joint gift. • Noise-cancelling headphones: A set of durable headphones to block out ambient noise may be helpful for graduates going on to college or post-graduate work. Grads entering the workforce can enjoy silence or music as they commute to their offices. These headphones also work well on flights, making them ideal gifts for new grads whose first jobs require a lot of travel. • Home luxuries: Outfit soonto-be college freshmen with some of the niceties of home. Upgrade dorm furniture with accent pillows or a more comfortable mattress. Put together a luxury gift basket with a high-quality robe, electric razor, spa shampoo, and other toiletries. • Travel tickets: Treat graduates to a trip away from home. Travelers often gain new perspectives and inspiration when visiting a See Gift, page 29
Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016 • Page 21
Alvin Community College commencement
Alvin Community College President Dr. Christal M. Albrecht, right, delivers a diploma to graduate Lilia Calvo, of Alvin, during Commencement May 14 in the ACC Gym. (Contributed photo)
A student at Alvin Community College shows off her diploma during Commencement May 14 in the ACC Gym. (Contributed photo)
Page 22 • Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016
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Alvin Community College commencement
Congratulations Grads!
(281) 489-1881
20939 Hwy. 6 • Manvel www.cameronrecycling.com
Great Job Seniors!
Phoenix Millwork, Inc. Manufactures & Installs Commercial Millwork 1901 E. House Street - Alvin
281-388-2211
Alvin Community College students get high-fives from their instructors after Commencement May 14 in the ACC Gym. (Contributed photo)
Rose Caskey
1801 S. Gordon Street Alvin, TX 77511 Bus: 281-331-7087 rose.caskey.mv0v@statefarm.com
We Appreciate Your Business! Bangladesh native Sadia Afrin Kornia, right, hugs her cousin Jannatul Retina after Commencement at Alvin Community College May 14 in the ACC Gym. (Contributed photo)
Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016 • Page 23
Alvin Community College commencement
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Congratulations! ALVIN COMMUNITY COLLEGE
ANGELINA RAMIREZ
Congratulations on graduating with your Dual Credit Degrees from AHS and ACC. We are so proud of you. Love Dad, Mom, Nathaniel, Marcos Jr.
Grocery - Hardware - Feed
— 94 Years In Alvin —
Chandel Burgess, a Turner High School Dual Degree graduate, smiles for photos during Commencement at Alvin Community College May 14 in the ACC Gym. (Contributed photo)
Corner of Willis & Taylor • Alvin 281-331-4491 • stanstore@aol.com
Our patient and understanding staff provide gentle care teaching kids how to maintain healthy oral hygiene for life.
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Congratulations 2016 Graduates Nursing graduate Quinity Williams, of Pearland, delivers the Commencement address at Alvin Community College May 14 in the ACC Gym. (Contributed photo)
161 N. Highway 35, Suite H 281-331-3515 www.accentdentalgroup.com
Page 24 • Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016
Congratulations! ALVIN HIGH
SCHOOL
MASON GONZALES
All your hard work has paid off. Congratulations on your Graduation! Love Mom & Dad
Alvin Community College nurse pinnings PHOTO AT RIGHT: Alvin Community College nursing students wave at family members during the Nurse Pinning ceremony May 11. PHOTO BELOW RIGHT: Alvin Community College nursing student Katie Henry, right, of Santa Fe, hugs her aunt April Murphy after the Nurse Pinning ceremony May 11. (Contributed photos)
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Congratulations Seniors!
CamBree Auto Service
• Preventative Maintenance Programs • AC • Brakes • Oil Change • Diagnostic Check FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED
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Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016 • Page 25
ACC nurse pinnings
PHOTO ABOVE: Alvin Community College nursing students Loretta Arias, center, of Alvin, and Osaze Arhunmwunde, left, of Alvin, light the ceremonial lamps during the Nurse Pinning ceremony May 11. PHOTO ABOVE RIGHT: Alvin Community College nursing student Christopher Lamb, of Alvin, waves to his family while receiving his nurse’s pin from Dr. Debbi Fontenot, associate degree nursing director. (Contributed photos)
Tips on paying off those student loans
Student loan debt is a big concern for today’s newly minted college graduates. According to an analysis of government data by Edvisors. com, a website that provides financial information about college to students and parents, the average student in the class of 2015 will graduate with more than $35,000 in student debt. That figure is roughly $2,000 more than the class of 2014 graduates faced upon receiving their degrees. With such substantial debts, it’s no wonder many college graduates find themselves looking for ways to pay down that debt as quickly as possible once they leave campus life behind. Paying down college debt may seem daunting at first, but the following are some ways for recent grads to get out from under that debt sooner rather than later. 1. Pay more than you owe. The best way to reduce the principal on student loans quickly is to pay more than you owe each month. Once the repayment grace period ends, grads will see what their monthly
student loan payment is. Paying more than that amount each month can drastically reduce your repayment period, and you will pay considerably less in interest over the life of the loan. For example, a graduate who owes $25,000 and pays 6 percent interest annually for 10 years will pay roughly $278 per month to eliminate that loan in exactly 120 months. Over those 120 months, grads will have paid more than $8,300 in interest in addition to their $25,000 principal. However, grads who pay an additional $50 per month will pay their loans off nearly two years earlier and pay nearly $2,000 less in interest over the life of the repayment. 2. Arrange for automatic deposits into a repayment fund. One of the more difficult parts of repaying student loans for recent grads is setting aside enough money to pay them off. Upon landing their first professional jobs, new grads are often making more money than they’ve ever earned in the past, and See Loan, page 31
“Congrats to the Grads!”
Debbie Perry REALTOR
Cell: 281-734-3510 Work: 281-968-7092 debperry2003@yahoo.com
Page 26 • Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016
You’ve received your diploma. Now it’s time to party with friends and family. (Contributed photo)
Graduation is time to party
Way To Go Seniors!
832-867-3956 (call or text) yvettehall1@gmail.com
Yvette Reyes Hall Broker/Owner
After spending 12 or more years attending school, graduation can be a momentous event for students who are about to enter the “real
Congratulations To 2016 Graduates!!!
21340 Texas 6 • Manvel, TX
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world.” A graduation party gives students a chance to celebrate the friendships they’ve made, the memories of the last several years and the opportunities to come. The choices for graduation parties are virtually endless. One significant consideration is the date of the party. If you want your party to take place on your actual graduation date, then expect to be competing with other students – some of whom may be your close friends. Unless you want few guests or you prefer to spend the entire day hopping from one party to another, it’s best to come up with a date that will be yours and yours alone. Therefore, select a date that is one or two weeks after the big day so more friends will be able to attend. • Make it a red-carpet event. Think like Hollywood movie premieres and set up a red carpet in your yard or at the party venue, complete with a backdrop of photos, school logos, mascot pictures, and anything else that represents your school. As guests arrive, have them walk the red carpet while others snap photos of them for later use in scrapbooks. • Recreate a movie-inspired graduation scene. Think about those classic teen movies that you love, and borrow ideas for your party theme from them. For example, if the carnival graduation
party scene from “Grease” is your all-time favorite, plan a carnivalthemed graduation party. There are many vendors who will rent inflatable moon bounces, amusement park rides and the like. Serve fair food, like corn dogs and funnel cakes. • Host a club party. It’s hard not to have fun at a party that focuses on dancing and snacking. Check with neighborhood dance clubs if they are open to off-hours private parties. Sometimes nontraditional party venues rent their spaces if they’re guaranteed a certain amount of revenue. Find out whether they have a DJ on staff or you’ll have to find someone to take care of the music and emcee the event. • Do a classic beach party. While this party is dependent on the weather, there is something special about a beach party that stretches into the evening. Whether you choose to serve barbecue or seafood treats that seem like they were caught that day, a picturesque seaside location is all you need to create the right ambiance. Try to select a beach that has access to changing rooms so that guests can switch out of swimsuits later on if they desire. If you want to create a beach bonfire, be sure to check local ordinances to see if it’s legal.
Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016 • Page 27
Interning can be rewarding College students typically clamor for internships. An opportunity to gain on-the-job experience while still in college, an internship looks great on a resume and, in some instances, can lead to an offer of employment upon graduation. But not all internships are equal. College students might be enthusiastic when landing an internship, only to find out once the opportunity begins that they will be doing little more than fetching coffee and not gaining valuable experience they can use down the road. In other instances, however, an internship can be all a student expects and more, providing hands-on experience in a student’s desired field and maybe even earning the student a few dollars along the way. When it comes to finding an internship, there are a few things college students can look for to determine if the opportunity is the right fit. • Companies that let interns and employees grow: Nowadays it’s easy to get a grasp of the culture within a certain company. Social networking sites such as LinkedInTM and Facebook(R) can paint a pretty accurate picture of a company’s environment. An environment that allows its employees to learn on the job and grow with the company might be more ideal for interns than a company with a less nurturing environment. In addition, some companies list information about their employees on their Web site, including how they started with the company and how long they have been there. A company with a roster of long-term employees is likely one where people like to work, an important thing for you to consider. • Potential experience: An internship looks good on a resume, but college students should seek out an internship that allows them to gain valuable experience. An internship at a renowned law firm might boost a resume, but if you spend all of your time in the mailroom or fetching coffee then that internship will not necessarily serve you very well. Look for an internship that
Landing that first job
The right internship provides interns with a wide range of hands-on experience. (Contributed photo) provides you with an array of experiences within your field. A good internship won’t involve you doing the same thing every day. Instead, it should allow you to try various tasks over the course of your summer or semester with the company. This will give you a more accurate depiction of the industry, while allowing you to list more experiences on your resume. When interviewing for an internship, ask about the specific tasks and responsibilities you’ll be entrusted with. The more, the better. • Value and relevance: The great thing about an internship is it gives college students the chance to get a glimpse of their potential field prior to graduation. After completing an internship, some students reconsider their course of study, while others grow even more committed. But when looking for an internship, look for one that is relevant to your current course of study. It’s alright to change afterward, but the internship should be one wherein you can apply the lessons you’ve learned and gain practical experience to complement those lessons. Avoid accepting an internship that has nothing to do with your course of study, as it’s not likely to help you after graduation. • Impact on your future: College students pursue internships because of the role an internship can play in their future. An internship can not only provide valuable experience, but also it’s a chance to get your foot in the door with a company that you might want to work for after you graduate. When interviewing for an internship, ask about the potential for turning an internship
into full-time employment. Some companies enable this transition by allowing successful interns to work on an hourly basis during the school year after they have completed their internships. Others admit they look to previous interns first when entrylevel positions become available. A company that wants its interns to eventually become full-time employees is one that can have a significant impact on your future.
Members of the class of 2016 should expect a competitive job market in which companies can afford to be patient as they attempt to find the best possible candidate for each opening. Oftentimes the best candidate, especially for entry-level positions, is the one who combines some experience with a willingness to learn and do whatever it takes to help a company succeed. Many candidates boast such experience and enthusiasm, but there are some additional steps new graduates can take to improve their chances of landing their first jobs out of college. • Gain some relevant experi-
ence. While college is the best time to gain some experience that’s relevant to your field, that does not mean you can’t still earn an internship now that you have donned your cap and gown and received your diploma. Many businesses look to recent graduates to fill their internships, as recent grads have years of study under their belts and, because they are no longer enrolled in classes, more flexibility than current students. If the job market in your chosen field is tepid, start looking for internships. These can be a great way to start making some professional See Job, page 30
“Congratulations for all your Hard Work and Dedication!”
From School Teacher to Realtor®, Serving This Community For 36 Years
Page 28 • Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016
Alvin Community College Dual Credit students who have earned more than 30 hours of credit or a Dual Degree at Turner High School were recognized at a ceremony May 13. Included among the graduates are valedictorian Sally Wang and salutatorian Savanna Chatman. (Contributed photo)
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Join a campus club to meet new people The first week of life on a college campus can be somewhat overwhelming for first-year college students. For many students, college is their first taste of independence. Some embrace that newfound freedom, while others grow homesick and long for the company of their immediate family. But as the school year progresses, the majority of first-year college students adapt to life on campus and grow to love their new surroundings. Once students have comfortably adapted to their new lives, many seek opportunities to become more actively involved in life on campus. College clubs and organizations are a great way to do just that, providing a host of benefits that further enhances college life. Meet people Joining a student club or organization is a great way for college students to meet fellow students, professors and other people of
note on campus. This is especially beneficial for first-year college students, whose social circle may otherwise be limited to roommates or fellow residents of their dormitories. Joining a club or student organization can quickly expand that social circle to include people who share your interests and not just your dorm assignment. Find a major Many first-year college students are unsure about a course of study, enrolling as an undeclared. Such students can benefit from joining clubs or student organizations that pique their interests. For example, joining an on-campus debate club might help you discover a passion for debate, which can lead down a path to becoming a lawyer. Students who enroll in college without declaring a major may have the most to gain by joining a club or organization. See Club, page 29
Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016 • Page 29
Club
Continued from page 28 Boost your GPA Joining a club or student organization also may make you a better student. That’s especially likely for students who join a club or organization that’s aligned with their field of study. A club or organization can help you apply lessons from the classroom in real-world situations, improving your grasp of certain concepts. In addition, your fellow club members may make great teachers, especially those who
are ahead of you and have taken many of the same classes you’re now taking or can expect to take down the road. Such students can be invaluable resources, helping explain concepts and offering advice as to which courses to take and which professors they prefer. Network with professionals Clubs and campus organizations also are a great way to begin networking with professionals in your future line of work.
Parents of college-bound youngsters can help their kids prepare for such a significant life adjustment so kids are better equipped to handle both their academic and social lives. (Contributed photo)
Have plan for college days Many of this year’s high school graduates will be leaving home for a college campus in the fall. Such a departure is often bittersweet for kids and parents alike. Young men and women typically look forward to the freedom and independence that college life can provide, but those same men and women know they will miss the familiarity of home as well. Parents, too, have mixed emotions when kids head to college, as their sadness over a child leaving home is met with the pride they feel that the child they raised is setting out to make their own way in the world.
Few moments in life involve such significant change as the moment when a young man or woman first arrives on a college campus. First-year college students often don’t know what to expect once they arrive on campus, but there are steps parents can take to help their kids prepare for college life. •Teach kids how to schedule their time. One of the things many college kids find once they arrive on campus is that their life is suddenly much less structured and their amount of downtime has increased considerably. Unlike high school, which keeps many kids in
Gifts
Continued from page 20 city, state or country for the first time. Travel is good for future entrepreneurs and may help a person stand out in a long list of job applicants. According to Forbes.com, travel can help cultivate relationships outside of one’s existing network and provide ideas from others outside of graduates’ existing personal and professional circles. • New wardrobe: Gift cards to retailers that specialize in business attire often make welcome gifts for new grads. Some students may need to update their wardrobes so they can look more professional on interviews or at school networking functions.
• Luggage: A new suitcase or travel bag is quite handy for students studying abroad. Choose durable luggage that can handle the rigors of travel so cash-strapped new grads have something they can rely on for years to come. • Money: Money remains a onesize-fits-all gift that can be put to many uses. Invest in a graduate’s future by buying stock in a stable company, contribute to a college savings account or help grads begin paying back their student loans. Practicality can come in handy when buying graduation gifts.
class or involved in extracurricular activities from the early morning through the late afternoon, college affords students much more free time, which is theirs to use as they see fit. Some kids dive right into on-campus activities, while others struggle to use their free time to their advantage. Parents can teach time management skills such as how to establish a schedule so all of that free time does not go to waste. This schedule can be adjusted on a weekly basis depending on coursework See Days, page 30
Where: Skrabanek Park in Danbury (From Highway 35, turn onto Spur 28; continue down until you cross the railroad tracks, the park will be immediately to the left.)
When: Saturday, June 4th from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.
For more information about this show, sponsorships, bringing antique farm machinery, or joining our club, contact us at saltgrasstractorclub@gmail.com
Congratulations Class of 2016!
Page 30 • Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016
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Job
Continued from page 27 contacts, and many people find themselves ultimately working full-time for the company where they first landed an internship. • Join a professional organization. Other options to network and improve your chances of landing your first job can be attained by joining a professional organization. Many such organizations welcome new members, even those with relatively little or even no professional experience. Your university may even sponsor such an organization and host regularly
Days
scheduled forums relevant to your industry. Such forums often feature lectures or talk sessions with already established professionals who can provide advice on landing a first job or internship or furnish grads with industry contacts who might offer similar help. Memberships in such organizations is often free or inexpensive, so take advantage of this opportunity if it presents itself. • Use the resources at your disposal. Many college graduates are unaware that they have valuable
resources at their disposal that can greatly increase their chances of securing a job out of college. The career services office at the university is an invaluable resource that is plugged into the business community in its town or city. Such an office can connect you will fellow alumni, many of whom want to help their fellow graduates establish their careers. A career services office also can help new graduates fine tune their resumes and cover letters so they have a greater chance of landing a job.
while others who did work only did so to earn spending money. But many college students need more than spending money once they reach campus. Rising tuition costs have made it difficult, if not impossible, for parents to bankroll their kids’ everyday expenses. As a result, many college students find themselves forced to manage their own money for the first time in their lives. Parents can teach simple financial lessons, such as the benefits of buying groceries as opposed to dining out or ordering
in each night. College is also where many young men and women first sign up for a credit card. Parents can teach their kids the basics of managing credit, such as the benefit of paying off a balance before interest rates kick in and the negative ramifications of missing payments. Parents who can afford to provide financial support for their children enrolled in college should reach a financial agreement with their children before they are off to college. Make sure kids know your financial support does not mean they have unlimited access to your funds, and make it known that such support will not continue if kids aren’t performing well in the classroom. • Encourage kids to contact any roommates before the school year begins. Part of the trepidation many kids have when leaving for college concerns how they may or may not develop a relationship with their new roommate. Many schools assign roommates months in advance of the school year, giving kids ample time to make contact and make arrangements about whom is going to bring certain items, such as a television or coffee pot or even furniture if the room can fit any. Parents should encourage such contact so kids can get a feel of who they will be living with and lay the groundwork for a friendship before they even step foot on campus. The feeling of knowing someone on campus can greatly reduce the anxiety many kids feel when they arrive at school for their freshmen orientation.
Continued from page 29
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or extracurricular activities. Once kids learn to manage their time effectively, including using breaks between classes to review notes from a recent lecture or upcoming class, they’re likely to get the most out of themselves academically and find they have more time to pursue extracurricular activities as well. • Discuss finances and establish a financial arrangement. Many college freshmen struggle to manage their money. Some might never have had a job during high school
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Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016 • Page 31
Loan
ALVIN HIGH SCHOOL
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Continued from page 25 many have no idea how to manage their newfound financial windfalls. In addition to making your monthly payments via your everyday checking account, arrange for automatic deposits into a savings account you will exclusively use to repay your student loans so you are not tempted to spend that money on more frivolous pursuits. You will celebrate the day the balance in your student loan savings account matches the payoff amount on your student loan balance. 3. Make plans. Failure to make a plan is one way to miss the opportunity to pay off your college debt as quickly as possible. Make financial goals, such as owning your own home in ‘X’ amount of years or saving money for postgraduate tuition. Having goals and plans in place can provide the motivation you need to pay down college debt sooner rather than later.
Hotty Toddy Gosh Almighty! Enjoy Ole Miss next year!
Love, Watson Dog
Graduates who stay disciplined and pay a little extra each month can repay their student loans long before the loans reach maturity. (Contributed photo)
After
Continued from page 13 chapters across the country. Take advantage of these organizations to connect with fellow alumni, who can be invaluable sources of information and provide connections that may help you find a job in your field. • Read and learn new skills. If you have yet to land that first job, use some of your down time to reacquaint yourself with reading for pleasure instead of reading as part of an assignment. You also can use extra time to explore new skills, such as learning certain software or applications that may help you stand out in a competitive job market. • Before you decide what you want to do, you may have to figure
Diploma Continued from page 14 school, like newspaper clippings or prom ticket stubs. The entire collection will make for a nice display you can enjoy whenever you feel compelled to take a trip down memory lane. • Bring it to work. You may want to hang certain documents in your office as proof of your credentials. A diploma can add an air of authority to the space.
out what you don’t like. Another way to use free time is to volunteer or apply for internships in fields you may want to work in. These experiences can help you determine your career options and find a career you find both challenging and exciting. But such opportunities can also help you determine when a given line of work isn’t for you. Oftentimes, finding the right career path
takes some trial and error. Don’t get too down if an opportunity doesn’t pan out. Instead, keep your head up and take advantage of the next opportunity that comes your way. Graduation is a time of mixed emotions. Graduates can not only use graduation season to make lasting memories with friends but also to take the first steps toward the next phase of their lives.
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We wish you the strength to face challenges with confidence along with wisdom to choose your battles carefully...we wish you adventure on your journey and may you always stop to help someone along the way...Listen to your heart and take risks carefully..Remember how much you are loved...We are so proud of you! Love Mom, Dad, Grandma Cano, Grandma Ybarra, Johnny, Aunt Sissy, Uncle Damon, Aunt Nena, Uncle Daniel, Pita, Theresa, Bubba, Selena, Sharon, Orora, R.J., Little Willie & Nano
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Page 32 • Graduation 2016 • Supplement to the Alvin Advertiser • May 25, 2016
Congratulations
2016 Graduates
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