Parents of this year’s graduating Fort High students have expressed interest in rescuing what they see as an important celebration.
“The tradition of a ‘chem-free’ grad for Fort Frances High School graduates could be yet another victim of the dispute between teachers and the Ontario government,” warned Diane Noonan, who is organizing the effort with Linda Steele.
“‘Chem-free,’ or Safe Grad, is a movement that has grown throughout Canada and U.S. It provides an alcohol- and drug-free celebration with the emphasis of keeping our youth safe and sober,” Noonan stressed.
Such parties also send an important message to our youth that there is an alternative way to having a good time, she added.
Previously, the ‘Chem-Free’ Grad Committee at FFHS organized and raised funds for this event. But without the participation of the teachers this year, the school-endorsed event could not proceed.
Due to the short amount of time left to organize for the 2001 graduation party, Noonan said its success will depend on the participation of the surrounding communities–organizers, volunteers, donations of prizes, and financial support and sponsorships are essential!
Anyone interested in being part of “Chem-Free 2001” is asked to contact Noonan (274-7682) or Steele (274-4866). An organizational meeting is slated this Thursday (April 26) at 7:30 p.m. at La Place Rendez-Vous.
Attendance at the meeting will determine whether the planning of this event will continue, Noonan said.
Fort Frances Times
Local News from Across the Rainy River District
