MELISSA SCHNEIDER For the Weekly News
Once a Viking, always a Viking — and those who attended Arthur Voaden Secondary School (AVSS) at any point in the last 90 years are being welcomed back to the school as it celebrates its 90th anniversary this September. The school, which opened in September 1926, was originally named the Arthur Voaden Vocational School. Ken Kokko, co-chair of the reunion committee, says tickets to the weekendlong event are still available, but anyone
wanting to attend need to order as soon as possible to ensure the event moves forward. With tickets for the Sept. 30 to Oct. 2 event already sold, organizers are hoping to reach the 350 mark so any additional money can be used to create a scholarship fund for current students. Kokko said alumni from as far away as Texas, Italy, Michigan, and British Columbia will be coming, and urges alumni to attend, adding this could be the last big reunion for the school. “With the attendance dropping at the school the way it has been, there is spec-
ulation that this could be the last reunion for AVSS,” he said. “Come out and support this because there might not be a 100th reunion.” Events are planned for the Friday, Saturday, and Sunday as well depending on attendance, including a Friday night wine and cheese event, Saturday afternoon barbecue with retired AVSS teachers, as well as a dance featuring bands called 80’s Inc. and Riot House, and a Sunday brunch and closing activities. The volunteer planning committee comprised of about 25 people and their executive has been working for
The Weekly News - Thursday, August 18, 2016
Arthur Voaden alumni needed for reunion success
9
15 months to put this event together. Kokko himself graduated from AVSS in 1985. Tickets are $80 each for the weekend and there are four ways tickets can be bought — stopping by the school office Monday to Thursday from 7:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m., or Friday from 7:45 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. (cash only); internet e-transfer to emarilyncampbell@rogers. com; calling treasurer Marilyn Campbell directly at 519-631-8657, or by visiting www.voaden90.com. Individual tickets can also be purchased for specific days.
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Tickets for the Arthur Voaden Secondary School 90th reunion in September are on sale and organizers need interested alumni to buy now to ensure the event proceeds as planned.
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SETTING THE INDUSTRY BENCHMARK FREE ADMISSION Please bring non-perishable food items for the Food Bank
Saturday August 20, 2016 at Dusk (9pm) Pinafore Park Bandshell
Family Movie in the Park Admission is a non-pershable food item for the food bank For movie title please contact the Parks & Recreation Department at 519-633-7112 or visit the City of St. Thomas website at www.stthomas.ca Under Residents/Parks and Recreation/Parks
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Bring your family and friends to enjoy a movie under the stars on a jumbo screen. Grab a blanket or your favourite lawn chair and hurry down to beautiful Pinafore Park. Show time is at dusk
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POPCORN and concession items will be available to purchase throughout the night.