Truly amazing

Dear editor:
As a parent of a 2014 Fort Frances High School graduate and a member of the “Chem-Free Grad” committee, I would like to take the opportunity to thank the many, many (over 150) community businesses and individuals who supported this terrific event.
Because of your generosity, more than 120 graduates had the chance to celebrate safely on June 19 all that had been accomplished in their years at FFHS.
Since this was my first child graduating from Fort High, I really had no clue what to expect from this event. Could it really be as amazing as everyone said? Truly it was.
Under the capable leadership of teacher Brian Gustafson, more than 20 parents worked together for months to raise funds, find volunteers, make the venue safe, plan games, and organize food for the night.
Then beginning at 10 p.m. this past Thursday, graduates streamed into the old arena for a night of plain old fun and good times. After filling up on pizza, they proceeded to spend hours enjoying inflatable bouncers, relay races, games, laser tag, a photo booth, and more.
Security (meaning middle-aged parents!) made sure no one got in or out, and the rest of us over 40-year-olds tried to keep up with the teens as they laughed, played, ate, and danced.
Then from 3-4 a.m., prizes were handed out to each graduate who, because of the many donations of money and goods from you, the community, each were able to go home with a $50 gift card and a prize donated by a local business.
It will be three years until the next child in our house graduates high school, but I know already I want to help make that “Chem-Free Grad” as much a success as this one was.
Working with other committed parents, and a whole district that pitches in to make for one great night for Grade 12 grads, is something anyone would be proud to be a part of.
With sincere thanks,
Conrad Dueck
Emo, Ont.