$1 including gst
Niko’s year end dance photos inside
Your LOCAL Media since 1918! Volume 106 Issue 39
www.tofieldmerc.com
Wednesday, May 29, 2024
PHOTOS BY JANA SEMENIUK
Holden Rural Academy Grads for 2024 toss their hats into the air following their graduation ceremony May 24. L-R: Angelo Veloso, Hunter Gordey, Rayanne Ligard, Grayson Zemlak, Tyson Patrie, Lane Baraniuk, Ren Maclaren, and Shaylom Magneson. Missing: Alex Harris.
Holden Rural Academy Grad class triples in size Jana Semeniuk Staff Reporter At least 100 family and friends gathered at the Holden Community Centre to honour nine graduates from the Holden Rural Academy during a ceremony on Friday, May 24. The school, celebrating their second year in operation, also celebrated that their grad class has tripled in size this year from three graduates last year. Principal Brent Anderson made note of the fact when he gave his address to the group. “I just want to say that you're all record breakers now. You are now officially the largest class that ever graduated Holden Rural Academy,” he said. “You'll always have that until one year from now when the grade elevens really destroy you.” Masters of ceremonies for the event were students Paige Zimmer and Brady Suchy, who introduced each grad to the stage as they passed through an archway of stringed lights and balloons. Zimmer and Suchy gave individual commentary for each grad as they made the introductions, sparking laughter and applause from the crowd. One graduate, Alex Harris, was missing from the celebration. Superintendent Wes Oginski spoke to
the grads, focusing on the role their school played in setting them up for the next phase of their lives. “You chose a place where learning validated your role experiences through collaboration with local businesses and organizations and community groups. Each of you had the opportunity to explore careers in different ways, but ways that made sense to where you each want to go next,” he said. “Good luck with a new chapter in your life. I hope life after graduation is filled with happiness for each and every one of you.” Principal Brent Anderson addressed the group and shared his thoughts on their journey, gave reminders of upcoming diploma exams, as well as told a personal story of discovering what he wanted to do with his life. “When my mom passed away, I was 26 years old. I was floundering not really knowing what I wanted to do with the rest of my life. I knew I loved two things; coaching and working with kids. Teaching, you get to do both. Working with youth is my passion. I'm encouraging all of you to find your passion and what you want to do,” he said. “And if you fulfill your goal, you will get paid but never have worked a day in your life. So, to the class of 2024 I ap-
plaud and congratulate you and also want to wish you the best of luck in the future.” Former principal Brian Dewar also spoke to the grads and focused on the importance of family, making a difference in the world, and offering his own words of advice. “Here's my advice. And this is really what it's all about. Love your life. Take pictures of everything you do. Tell people you love them, talk to random people, do things you're scared to do, because so many people don't. You can make a difference not only for yourself,
Former HRA Principal Brian Dewar
but your family and everyone you come in contact with in this world. Talent might make you good, but your work ethic is going to make you great,” he said. “Go fulfill your dreams, enjoy life but the biggest thing is go make a difference.” The graduates were called one by one up from their seats on stage to accept a certificate from Principal Brent Anderson. After the ceremony program was complete, a banquet was held including dinner, a number of speeches, in addition to a dance.
HRA Grad masters of ceremonies Paige Zimmer (L) and Brady Suchy (R)