‘Chem-free’ grad plans coming along

Fort Frances High School’s graduation ceremony is coming up quickly and plans for the annual “chem-free” party afterwards are in the works.
Following the ceremony on June 25, students from the graduating class will be invited to gather at the Memorial Sports Centre for a night of fun and games from 10 p.m.-4 a.m.
“The purpose of ‘chem-free’ is to provide the graduates with a chemical-free, including alcohol, drugs, and smoke, environment to celebrate their graduation,” said FFHS teacher Brian Gustafson, the staff representative on the “chem-free” grad committee.
The committee, run by a group of parents, helps plan the event, as well as assist in gathering donations from businesses and organizations throughout Rainy River District.
Gustafson explained while some businesses provide financial support, others donate items that will be used as prizes during the party.
“We’ve raised about $3,000 so far,” he said last week, noting that’s not including the donated items. “We’re quite pleased with how everything is coming together.”
But that doesn’t mean they don’t need any more support. The committee still has more funds to raise in order to cover the costs of the games, entertainment, food, and prizes.
“The other point of the fundraising is we guarantee that every graduate will leave with a prize package,” Gustafson indicated. “So that at the end of the night, we do draws so everyone will leave with something.”
While many area businesses have been contacted with an initial letter, if any business was missed, Gustafson said there’s still time for them to offer a donation.
Gustafson also pledged the graduates will have a great time at the “chem-free” grad party.
Games being brought in from Air Bounce Amusements in Toronto include an obstacle course, a bungee run, a Gladiator-type challenge, boxing, and a mechanical bull.
There also will be tables set up for the students to try their hand at blackjack and roulette.
“Other games and activities will carry on throughout the night,” Gustafson noted. “And then there’s food, as well.”
Aside from seeking donations from businesses and groups, he indicated the committee and graduates have been involved in some fundraisers—most recently a barbecue and car wash during Spring Fever Days in Emo, which brought in $600.
They will also be at this weekend’s home and leisure show at the Memorial Sports Centre hosting the always popular cake roulette.
Gustafson noted the “chem-free” party typically draws about 70-80 percent of the graduates.
“You do hear stories about things happening on the night of graduation around the country and it’s definitely something we don’t want to have happen here,” he stressed, adding it’s a way to ensure everyone celebrates safely.
Gustafson added they have a very good committee this year, who have been quite busy with all the different aspects of the event. And he’s sure it will be a success.
Anyone wishing to make a donation can contact Gustafson at the high school (274-7747).