Graduation Memories 2023

Bad Axe Class of 2023

Dear Class of 2023,

The memories circle as we reflect back on our many years spent at Bad Axe. It all started back in 2010, when we walked into the George E. Greene elementary school. We didn’t know just how memorable these next 13 years were about to be. New friendships were created, countless field trips were just beginning, and excitement filled the air. Though our years in elementary school didn’t last long, there are many lifelong memories created. Memories reflecting on the many ACES days, reading months, art projects, and Go Math lessons. It was then time to become a ‘big kid’ and start our journey over to middle school. We thought we were the coolest kids walking into a school where we each had our own locker, and then we switched classes every hour. We all made it through the challenging time of creating new friendships and the awkward transition of being a 12-year-

old. The memories in this chapter of our lives ranged from playing kickball at recess, to getting our first “boyfriends” and “girlfriends”, to trying out various sports. And then, we finally made our transition to high school, where many of our days and nights were filled with sporting events, studying, and finding paths into our future. Though all of us went through the worry of passing our next math test, we wouldn’t be the class we are today without Mrs. Johnson, and her challenges and love she gave to us. After all this time spent together, it must come to an end. We wish nothing but the best to all of our fellow classmates and their successes. And, a final thank you to all the teachers and staff members who have helped shape us into the people that we are today, and to all of our families for supporting us along the way.

Callie Engler & Hanna Rapson Senior Class President and Vice President

Hailee McLeod Logan McLeod Griffin Meinhold Katelyn Meinhold Brooke Messing

Hayden Miles

Nadine Nelson Jonah Ordus Alayna Osontoski Irene Pena Rampérez

Alexis Anderson Lilyan Bach Clare Batzer Leilani Becker Natalie Blackstock Caleb Blehm Daveon Booms Jordan Booms Keaton Braun Noah Braun

Jolie Brown Peyton Brown Pietro Campani Claire Castle Kemper Checkley Jared Collins Jacob Cooper Amber Copenhagen Colton Darbee Lance Deming

Steven Depcinski Callie Engler Jasmyne English Guilia Giacomino Tate Gordon Alice Grady Allison Haldane Amber Haldane Ava Henderson Joslyn Hessling

Amber Hiller Katherine Himmel John Hollingsworth II John Hunt Cailee Janik Alexis King

Brady Klee

Emma Kociba Forrest Krager Aleigha Krueger

Matthew Kubacki Emma-Marie Lange Colton Leppek

Jack London Teagan London Cristian Lugo Jacob MacPhee Emily Maring Jaden Marks Jacob Maxson

Logan Pollum Destiny Ranquist Hanna Rapson Dillon Robarts Draiden Romas Chandler Rosenthal Ryan Rothe Jayden Sanchez Evan Schenk Brittany Scoviac

Erica Sheldon Julianna Shisler Justin Sievert Connor Slater Owen Swiercz Caleb Tilkins Samantha Trusock Matilde Visentin Isaac Wade Bradley Walls

Keagan Young

Bad Axe Class of 2023

Bad Axe Schools is Proud to Announce Clare Batzer as Valedictorian

Bad Axe valedictorian Clare Batzer, daughter of Katie and David Batzer, believes “You have to throw things at the wall and see what sticks. One of the biggest parts of life, to me, is figuring out who you are and what you want to do, both in the long and short term. You won’t get anywhere if you keep doing the same things, so it’s incredibly important to try new things and put yourself out there even when it seems terrifying. You might fail sometimes, but you might also discover something new.” The credit for this approach to life belongs to her mother. “She has been one of the most unfailingly supportive people in my life. At the same time, she has a good way of taking on whatever challenges life throws at her. Her resolve inspires me and her support drives me.”

Music seems to be one of the things that stuck for Batzer. A musician from her middle school years, Batzer has served as section leader and first chair in the Bad Axe Bands. She has also been both first and second chair in the Tri-County Honors Band and a member of the pit band as part of the Bad Axe Drama program. Her favorite memory even resides in music. “At one of our marching band competitions in my eighth-grade year, we broke the school record for the highest-scoring performance. It was a really amazing experience that showed me all of the fantastic camaraderie and fulfillment that could come with band.”

Community service has also been important to Batzer. As the current Vice President of the National Honor Society, she participates in a variety of service projects and activities. Additionally, she is “ incredibly proud of the work I have done crocheting projects like scarves and nests for underprivileged people and animals alike. It is really amazing to know that I can help out those in need by doing something I already love.” Batzer enjoys using her unique talents to help others, which leads to her advice for underclassmen. “You have to do the things that you want to do in high school. Don’t let anyone dissuade you from participating in something you care about; take the time to audition for the musical, join a sports team, or become involved in community service. Make the most of the four short years of high school. In the end, you might end up finding your passion.”

In the fall, Batzer will be attending the University of Michigan to study history. This is fitting as in the future, she “would love nothing more than to travel and see major historical locations all the way from Machu Picchu to the Colosseum, with everything in between.”

Bad Axe Schools is Proud to Announce Katherine Himmel as Salutatorian

Bad Axe Salutatorian Katherine Himmel, daughter of Nick and Sharon Himmel, believes there is no failure, just feedback. Himmel states, “This motto stands to reason in almost every aspect of life. Without failure, growth and development are not possible. Failures reveal the areas and actions that don’t work, making them avoidable the next time around.”

Himmel’s involvement in all areas of life has given her plenty of opportunities for feedback about herself and the world around her. As President of the Bad Axe Chapter of the National Honor Society and Secretary of the Bad Axe Rotary Interact Club, she has participated in service projects, the most recent a project providing water filters to the residents of the Dominican Republic during her spring break. As a member of the volleyball and basketball teams and a former member of the track and field team, she has used the feedback to achieve All-Thumb and All-Conference honors. Finally, her many academic awards attest to her ability to accept the input of teachers and administration. Earning accolades in history, science, social studies, Spanish, and English, Himmel has applied herself to using feedback to improve both inside and outside the classroom.

Himmel credits much of her success to her mom. “My mom has been my biggest influence. She has always been my number one supporter, the person I talk to in times of need, and my role model. She is the most selfless person I know and will go out of her way to make sure my brother and I are doing well.” This strong base taught her to be there for others as well. “I am proud of finding such a great group of friends to surround myself with…my favorite memories are being part of or cheering on all the close, nail-biting wins in our school sports.” Himmel is also planning to complete a Certified Nursing Assistant program this spring, a program designed to support the medical community.

In the fall, Himmel will be attending Saginaw Valley State University to major in nursing and become a Nurse Practitioner. She also dreams of traveling more in the future. “The Dominican Republic was an opportunity I took advantage of as soon as my Interact Club offered it. Not only has it changed my perspective on life but it ignited a flame in me to start traveling more to help others in need.”

Cass City Class of 2023

Laiken Anderson Sheridan Bills Alexis Cook Mason Cregeur Emma Elliott Keira Greene Mikayla Harris Matthew Kennedy Shyann Kubont Makenna Learman John Marks Allyson Martin Rylee Martin Kenzie Maust Matthew Pedery Willow Rice Ahlyna Sanchez Alexys Shamel Ty Tennant Brooklyn Thomas

Anthony Bazan Jazmin Bean Evan Beaudin Kendal Blanchard Aidan Bogart Alizabeth Bryan Jade Caister Evan Clark Zachary Cowdry Saylar Cuthrell

Amanda Dobson Hannah Dooley Aiden Doucette Ethan Ely Michael Fernald Matthew Ferri Baily Fick Hailey Frederick Michael Fuelleman William George

Madilyn Gniewek Cameron Gottschalk Reese Grady Jacob Graves Aidan Hatcher Shannon Hendrick Emma Hennessey Kendall Hicks Ethan Hunt Joshua Jaster

Chloee Jaworski Logan Kaake Ethan Kampa Cora Karr Alexis Kile Bryce Koch Olivia Krueger Brendan La Bair Ellie Laurie Donavan Loomis

Savannah Louks Elizabeth McCormick Kylie McGrath Shanell Mester Thomas Muter Hannah Woodward Madison Phelps Kate Piwruangnont Kayley Salcido Landon Scott

Sean Searles Zakriah Sheikh Ellie Stapleton Joshua Steely Riley Swiderski Alexander Thiem Hunter Turnbull John VanDeWater Jr. Amelia Weiter Gage Witzke

Nathan Woodruff II Blake Wooters

DECKERVILLE SCHOOL INFORMATION

Class motto: “It’ll Buff”

Class Flower: Sunflower

Class Song: “Don’t Blink” by Kenny Chesney

Class flower: Orange Alstromeria Blossom

Class officers:

President: Connor Palmer

Vice-President: Maddy Garza

Secretary: Jessie Heilig

Treasurer: Sophia Sanford

Representatives: Ty Forsyth & Mya Morden

Blace Byers Brice Byers Kendall K. Dumaw Shelby M. Flanagan Ty W.Forsyth Madyson M. Garza Colton M. Gibbs Naythan C. Gough Jessie K. Heilig Jacob J. Holka

Ryan L. House Alyssa G. Johnson Aleyah S. Keinath Logan J. Kneffel Kristopher M. Kosal Peter S. Lapp Lillyan D. Martin Dante F. Martinez Mya Morden Axelle Mousse

Derek M. Osborne

Michelle Ozanich Connor W. Palmer Jarrett E. Phillips Noah Ramey Eric Rottman Sophia E. Sanford Brady E. Sharbowski Jakob W. Smith Devin L. Stone

Leah K. Trigger Rachel E. Vogel

Katelyn Arntz Tanton Babcock Benjamin Birtles Jacob Booms Xavier Booms Grace Boynton Maria Carneiro Paranhos Madison Clink Regan Emming Aubrey Geiger

Nichole Gornowich Karlee Guza Kurtis Guza Jalen Hale Dylan Halifax Tiara Henry Tori Hurren Connor Jock Logan Kanaski Levi Klaski

Jace Knoblock Aubri Layer Isabel Learman Brooke Liebeskind Angela Marentette Katrina Mausolf Lara Menegotti Ian Morley Casandra Osentoski Mia Ostrowski

Kory Pawlowski Samantha Pawlowski Connor Peyerk Misti Potter Brooklyn Redburn

Noelle Rick Colin Roggenbuck Samuel Roggenbuck Steven Scholtz Nathan Schweitzer

Adrienne Siemen Emma Siemen Vincent Smaglinski Mason Soper Noah Stein Carlee Walker Andrew Weber Troy Wells, JR Morgan Zurek

Harbor Beach Class of 2023

LETTERS FROM THE CLASS

Valedictorian Letter:

Freshman year starts the path in which we call “high school.” This path often comes with many obstacles which cause you to grow and really learn about who you are as a person. My journey especially helped me shape who I am today, and who I will become. And so my journey began.

My journey started out as an average freshman’s would. I signed up for classes, came in a little nervous, and braced myself for the next four years. Sadly, it didn’t stay this way for long. After about half of my freshman year, we got some great news, or so I thought. What went from three weeks off of school turned into a pandemic which brought me one of my hardest moments throughout my high school career, having to forfeit my sophomore season of football because of quarantine. This really took a toll on me, but all I could do was forget about it and try to move on and worry about next season. Through it all, I continued to focus on my academic achievement and was able to stay on course.  I finished off sophomore year and everything was great. No more

Salutatorian Letter:

High school has been a very remarkable experience in my life. Over the past four years, I have met amazing people, created unforgettable memories, and learned valuable lessons. Combined, these influences have impacted my life for the better. I am very thankful for all the opportunities Harbor Beach has blessed me with.

Throughout my studies, I have worked hard to become the student I am today. I learned that without challenge, growth cannot be attained. However, I did not achieve this success on my own. As an alumnus of Our Lady of Lake Huron Catholic School, I would like to thank the staff and school for shaping me into the student I am today. Without receiving their faith-based education while being held to high moral standards, I would not have earned this accomplishment. I will forever be thankful for this special foundation to my education. Entering high school, I knew I was ready thanks to Our Lady of Lake Huron Catholic School. The staff at Harbor Beach High School has also helped me excel as a student. I am very thankful for their guidance and support to help me continue my growth in education that will allow me to succeed as I enter college.

masks in school, I was about to be a junior, and I got to live with my brother Sloan the next summer. During that summer, Sloan helped to reinforce in me the value of hard work, motivation, goal setting and staying the course.  I was more than ready for Junior year.  After the summer that reality ended. Three games into my junior season I tore my ACL. This was by far the hardest challenge I have ever had to face in my life. I lost sight of my goals and struggled with the thoughts that all of my dreams were no longer achievable.  I won’t go into details but this taught me patience, hard work, discipline, and many other things that were valuable in getting me  to the point I am at today.

During my high school years, I have been faced with a lot of challenges, but those challenges have made me the man I am today. They helped drive me to be the best that I can be in every area of my life, including academics and character.  And, now I am honored to be valedictorian and  to have the opportunity to be a future college athlete. So, when I look back at my “path” I would not change anything that happened, because all those events led to where I am today.

As a student athlete, it was not always easy finding time to balance sports, school, and family. Since I participated in three sports: volleyball, basketball, and softball, there was never any down time. Yet, I wanted to hold myself to high standards. If I was going to complete something, I needed to try my hardest and do it well, both on and off the court. I learned this from my family. I am very blessed and thankful to have them in my life.

Sports have played a very important role in my life. They have taught me valuable lessons such as teamwork, determination, and hard work. I will always carry these lessons with me in every challenge I face. I am very thankful for all my coaches throughout the years. The time and dedication they placed into my teams is truly inspiring. It is easy to say that I will miss being a student athlete the most as I move into the next steps of my life.

Growing up in this small-knit community, I have been blessed with admirable role models, incredible opportunities, and the best of friends. However, I am ready for what is next in life and hope to one day pay this generosity forward.

Sincerely, Karlee

Guza

Harbor Beach High School Class Information

Valedictorian: Levi Klaski

Salutatorian: Karlee Guza

President: Grace Boynton

Vice President: Angela Marentette

Secretary: NONE

Treasurer: Katelyn Arntz

Class song: “The Good Part” - AJR

Class quote: “We are all in this together.” - High School Musical

Class colors: Black & Orange

Class flower: Lily

Congrats Class of 2023

Luke E Braun Stephen L Bruce Jr. Abigail M Burack Logan W Carr Christopher J Carter Morgan

N Chandler Charles F Csanyi Jaylah A. S. Donovan Madison L Edler Yuri V Eichler Rylee E Fritz Devonee R Gnagey Mikel L Good Leah A Gothro Parker A Graves Elyse K Green Kennedy L Henry Isabella G Herford Tyler H Hill Cayla L Hodges

Laker High School Class of 2023

Class Song: Don’t Stop Believing by Journey

Laker High School Class Information

Class Quote:“Good morning, and in case I don’t see ya, good afternoon, good evening, and good night.” - Truman Burbanks

Class Flower:Yellow Carnation

Class Colors:Orange, Yellow, Teal

Class Officers:

Class President: Brianna J. Yoder

Class Vice President: Emily A. Smith

Hello, my name is Mikel Good. I am a senior at Laker High School and am a Valedictorian in the Class of 2023. As I look to the next part of my life, I am eager to pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering at Michigan State University. However, I know that this was not all on my part, and am very grateful for the amazing opportunities that Lakers have provided me to get me to this point. In particular, three things have stuck out most to me: Mechatronics

Hello, My name is Brianna Yoder and I am honored to be one of the graduating class of 2023 co-valedictorians. As we near the end of the school year, my classmates and I are getting ready to say goodbye to the beautiful memories we have shared over the years. Being a Laker student since Kindergarten has shown me the impact our amazing community has had on shaping the class of 2023 into the talented young individuals that we are today. Teachers like Mr. Grifka who taught us everything about algebra and Mr. Lebsack who opened our eyes to the world of science. Both of these individuals have been profoundly impactful in shaping our academic lives and the lessons that they have taught us will continue to influence us after

Valedictorian: Reagan Boyce

Class Secretary: Kendal L. Boyce

Class Treasurer: Tyler H. Hill

Class Representative: Lauren O. Scaddan

Student Council President: Kennedy L. Henry

Student Council Vice President: Devonee R. Gnagey

Student Council Secretary: Mikel L. Good

Student Council Treasurer: Rylee E. Fritz

Student Council Representative: Reagan L. Boyce

LETTERS FROM THE CLASS

Class, First Robotics, and Science Olympiad. Mechatronics class was the first introduction I had to engineeringrelated activities. I learned about the design of objects on how they could be brought to fruition through the use of wonderful machines. The hands-on projects and assignments gave me a practical understanding of engineering topics and introduced me to what I will experience in the future. The robotics program at Laker High School allowed me to take my understanding

graduation. The support given to us by our teachers, coaches, and school personnel has been a key part of our experience in being a true member of the Laker family. Our school Guidance Counselor Mr. Etzel has always put the effort forward to help lead me and my fellow graduates in the right direction. I know that going forward I will always continue to uphold the values and ideals that my community has instilled in me. The foundation that has been laid by our greatest supporters that surround us has been the base needed for all of us to exceed expectations and achieve great things. Being a Laker has been a defining experience that has paved the way for success as I move on to the next stage of my life.

As children, we often play with building blocks. These wooden blocks have many uses. With them, we could build skyscrapers if we positioned the blocks just right to make a strong foundation that would provide stability. I like to think of my education at Lakers as one of these skyscrapers. With each year that passed, I would add a block in the perfect spot with the help of the faculty at the school. Because of the opportunities and support system that Lakers has offered me, I know my skyscraper will withstand the strongest of storms. Building a tower is a lot of work. Luckily, I had great teachers to help me along the way. The building blocks of my skyscrapers are painted in a variety of colors. One block on my tower is painted corn gold and

of mechatronics to the next level. I worked on a team to design, build, and program a robot that could complete various challenges. I gained valuable experience in teamwork, problemsolving, and project management, all of which will be critical in my future engineering career. Participating in the Science Olympiad at Laker High School also gave me the opportunity to explore different areas of science and engineering, including bridge building. Through this, I developed

Hello, my name is Kendal Boyce, and I am the senior class secretary for Laker High School. I have attended Lakers since I was four years old and have been surrounded by the same group of kids since I could remember. In our graduating class, there are 62 students. For the most part, all 62 of us progressed from basic counting to advanced algebra and from barely being able to read to writing multiple-page papers. In that time, we grew as humans and are now on our way to becoming productive members of society. Most people live to be about 80 years old, meaning we spend approximately a quarter of our lives in school. With that in mind, there are countless experiences and memories that our class has shared in the first quarter of their lives, from getting our indoor recess taken away and having to stare at our lockers for 15 minutes to sprinting across the lily

national blue for my time in FFA. Mrs. Haley, you have helped mold me into the leader I am today. Thank you for all the leadership opportunities you have given me over the years and for teaching me what it means to be a servant leader. Another block is painted green because green and science go hand in hand. The science courses offered at Lakers have challenged me as a student and guided me to my future course of study. So thank you, Mr. Lebsack, for answering all of my physics questions and letting me take Lab Science two years in a row. The science classes offered at Lakers have built up my lab techniques and prepared me for my college career. Another piece of the green block is the science olympiad team, which has expanded my direct science knowledge and allowed me to compete in various science-based competitions. The green of

problem-solving skills as I had to continually find areas of improvement in my designs. Overall, my experiences in Mechatronics Class, Robotics, and Science Olympiad have given me a solid foundation in mechanical engineering and have prepared me for what I will face in the future. I am confident that the skills and knowledge I gained from these programs will be instrumental to my success in fulfilling my goal of becoming an engineer.

pads at Splash Village Waterpark on our class trip. One memory that captures the essence of our class stems from a middle school assembly when we were in the 6th grade. Something to note about these assemblies is that they always blasted music as the students entered and took their seats. One day as we were all waiting for the assembly to begin, Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believing” came on. As the opening lyric was played, all 62 members of our class started belting the song. In middle school, it can seem like you are so alone in the world, but when moments like these happen, you can see how one small link can bring everyone together. When our advisor, Mrs. Sears, asked us what we wanted our class song to be this year, we chose “Don’t Stop Believing.” I cannot wait to see where life takes each and every one of us. So, to the class of 2023, Don’t Stop Believing!

this block is so much more than the courses I have taken since it is also the color that taught me what it meant to be proud of your school and community. The last block on my tower is not a specific color but instead has a circle painted on it. The circle on this block symbolizes the lunch tables in the cafeteria that have fostered the growth of my friendships and served as the best study spot. In my four years of high school, I sat at the same table for three years. While some friends have graduated and left their places at the table, we always managed to find new friends to fill it up again. I will miss the laughter and conversation that surrounded our lunch table, so thank you to my friends for always making it the best place to sit. I am excited about this next chapter and will always be proud to be a Laker.

Destiney F Ozbat Jacob A Paionk Katie E Rappuhn Blaine R Renn Karrah L Roberts Miah K Ruth Lauren O Scaddan Joshua A Schave Shayla G Schnake Mason R Shaw

Emily A Smith Alexa L Smithers Lindsey C Steele Tyson D Steinman Garett E Strahan Garett J Taylor Austin M Tomlinson Grace F Trost Ethan K Wissner Brianna J Yoder

Owendale-Gagetown High School

Class Information

Valedictorian: Emily Schultz

Salutatorian: Erin Morrish

Class Motto: The last four years were cool, but we’re bigger than this school.

Class Song: Congratulations by Post Malone.

Class Flower: Carnation

Class Colors: Black & Blue Class Officers  Student council treasurer: Cristal Crandall, Class President: Dagon LaCroix, Vice President: Emily Schultz, Secretary: Erin Morrish, Class Treasurer: Cristal Crandall, Student Council Representative: Rileigh

Brianna Bergman Cristal Crandall

Dagon LaCroix Kevin Lopez Erin Morrish Emily Schultz Rileigh Smith

High School Class Information

Valedictorian: Maze Gusa

Salutatorian: Abigail Guza

Class Song: “Thunderstruck” by AC/DC

Class Saying/Motto: “I spent 113,880 hours of my life for a paper and a handshake.”

Class Flower: Sunflower

Class Officers:

Christopher Oswald

Jeanna Bischer

Carly Guza

Jalyn Kolar

Student Council:

Taylor Peruski

Maze Guza

Logan Volmering

Samantha Warczinsky

Haylee Arlitt Joy Aumann Elizabeth Bellis Jeanna Bischer Gabrielle Bukoski Michael Cook Evan Dropeski Faith Emming Cameron Ferris Alexander Fleming

Christopher Gosdzinski Erik Grifka Jack Grifka Maze Guza Abigail Guza Carly Guza Tristan Halifax Mark Heilig Alyson Jones Peyton Kauffman

Jalyn Kolar Nicolas Lombardi Aiden Mackowiak Anthony McCarty Abigail Michalski Jarrett Nast Caden Osantowski Christopher Oswald DeLaney Peruski

Parker Peruski

Taylor Peruski Trinity Pierson Alexis Schmidt Jacob Schroeder Zachary Schroeder

Jenna Stambaugh

Jace Susalla

Seth Sweeney

Blake Tschirhart

Andrew Vogel Logan Volmering Charles Wallace

Samantha Warchuck Samantha Warczinsky Mercedes Wolschleger

Ubly High School Class of 2023

Ubly High School is proud to announce the honor students for the Class of 2023.

Valedictorian is Maze Gusa, daughter of Andrew and Jeanne Gusa of Ubly and the granddaughter of Lucille and the late Andrew Gusa of Minden City and Shirley and the late Cletus Guza of Ubly.

Maze attends the Huron Area Technical Center for the Hospitality/ Food Service program in addition to taking classes at Ubly and through Delta College. She has been on the President’s List for her outstanding academic performance through Delta College and is graduating with above a 4.0.

Beyond academics, Maze is incredibly active in her community and extracurriculars. She serves as the President of Ubly FFA, the

President of National Honor Society, the President of Ubly’s Campus Life Lunch Club, and the Vice President of Student Council. She is also a member of Family, Community and Career Leaders of America and National Technical Honor Society. Maze has also participated in cross country, basketball, and track. Through these sports, she has been All-State on three occasions. Maze is also an active member in her church, St.John’s Catholic Church, altar serving and volunteering on multiple occasions. Her hobbies include baking, public speaking, and running. In the fall, Maze plans to attend Northwood University to pursue a degree in Hospitality Management.

Ubly students earning high honors:

Logan Volmering, son of Richard and Wendy Volmering

Jeanna Bischer, daughter of Kevin and Tammy Bischer

Carly Guza, daughter of Anthony Guza & Renee Guza

Jalyn Kolar, daughter of Mitchell and Geralyn Kolar

Anthony McCarty, son of Jason and Carol McCarty

DeLaney Peruski, daughter of Skatch and Tammy Peruski

Samantha Warczinsky, daughter of Steve and Denise Warczinsky

Jarrett Nast, son of Jerry and Sue Nast

Jace Susalla, son of Joshua and Janice Susalla

Joy Aumann, daughter of Dustin and Mary Aumann

Ubly Community Schools has had a profound impact on me as an individual. Through the school, I have been engaged in several several sports and extracurricular. Each of these opportunities has taught me various lessons, but two of the most impactful groups that I have been a part of are the Ubly FFA and Ubly’s cross country team.

As a member of the cross country team, I was able to win regionals as an individual and become all state on more than one occasion, but that was not what made the experience so valuable. Instead, I treasured the friendships that formed

Ubly Community Schools has taught me so much and I am so thankful. One teacher that has prepared me for the real world is Mr. Sweeney, he has given us so much advice on how to be hard workers. He has given us life stories that he has gone through and it helps us realize that times are going to be tough and we will get through if we work hard. Mr. Sweeney’s class Economics and Government taught us about things we need to know to survive outside of high school. Another teacher that has impacted my life is Ms. Perdue, she has recently been teaching us financial math. Financial math is the math we need to be smart with our money and how to budget it. The class has been amazing and extremely beneficial for me and all my classmates. She is truly teaching us how to become millionaires. She has been someone that if I needed to ask a question even if it wasn’t math related I could.

Mrs. Kramer is a great teacher and an even better FFA advisor. She has shown me that life is not always easy, but that I will get through it. She gave us a project that has helped me even to this day, its called the Life Budget Project. This project taught us how to be adults and contact people to find the answers that google could not answer. She had us plan out our future from college to when we start a job and where we can find a job. She taught us how to interview and make sure we would get the job. The past 12 years at Ubly have been amazing and I am truly thankful for everything and everyone. I didn’t even get to mention all the teachers that have impacted my life, there are just to many of them to write about. Thank you Ubly for everything.

-Alyson Jones

Salutatorian is Abigail Guza, daughter of Christopher and Angela Guza and the granddaughter of Bob and Sue Van Erp of Bad Axe, Martin Guza of Ruth, and Dave and Darlene Skrocki of Bay City.

Academically, Abigail has taken several AP and dual-enrollment courses through Delta College. As a dual enrollment student, she was named to the President’s List several times at Delta College. She is graduating with a GPA of 4.167. Outside of her academics, Abigail has taken part in Cross Country and Track and Field for four years earning several All-State Athletic and Academic Honors. She is also an active member of her FFA chapter,

where she currently holds the office of Parliamentarian. In addition to FFA and sports, Abigail plays both bass clarinet and tenor sax in the band. She has performed several solos in Solo & Ensemble, earning all one ratings and is a four-year member of the Tri-Country Honors band. Abigail is a member of the JLA and SLA and has won the Small Livestock Sweepstakes as the Poultry representative. Abigail has been a member of the National Honor Society for two years. She is a member of St. Isidore Parish where she Alter serves and volunteers. In the fall, Abigail plans to attend Michigan State University to study Crop and Soil Science.

Ubly students earing honors:

Haylee Arlitt, daughter of Jeanette Schember

Abigail Michalski, daughter of Douglas and Nicole Michalski

Christopher Gosdzinski, son of David and Janel Gosdzinski

Gabrielle Bukoski, daughter of Vincent and Kelly Bukoski

Alyson Jones, daughter of Jerry and Kimberly Jones

Michael Cook, son of Michael and Cindy Cook

Taylor Peruski, daughter of Cory and Amy Peruski

Mark Heilig, son of Craig and Karen Heilig

Mercedes Wolschleger, daughter of Michael and Nicole Wolschleger

Seth Sweeney, son of Scott and Bonnie Sweeney

LETTERS FROM THE CLASS

within our team and with the coach. We were truly a family, and we often bonded over the hard days of practice and the lengthy meets. My coach, Garrett Jurges, was unlike any other coach that I have ever met. He taught me how to take the time to meet individuals needs and take a personal interest in those I interact with. He was a selfless individual, and he greatly contributed to the person and runner that I have become. Ubly FFA is another group that has shaped the person that I have become. My advisors, Melissa Kramer and Camay Booms, have poured countless hours into my development and have

I believe that Ubly Community Schools has prepared me for life in a variety of ways. Whether it be school classes or extracurricular activities, Ubly has a very good environment for all students. Since I was a freshman in high school, I have been a member of Student Council. Student Council is something that I will greatly miss when I graduate. I have always enjoyed all of the activities and projects that we did, and I believe that each one has prepared me for the real world. For the past few years, I have created flyers for multiple events, such as homecoming or prom. I was asked to do so by the Student Council advisor, and I enjoyed learning valuable marketing techniques from doing that. Student Council also plans homecoming, coming home, school dances, and other school activates. When accomplishing these tasks, I have learned important life lessons. Working as a team, seeing other students’ points of view, and the entire planning process of events are all traits that Student Council has given me. I am very thankful that I made the decision to join Student Council. One class that really sticks out to me from my last twelve years at Ubly is Financial Math by Ramsey Classroom. I took this class during my first semester of senior year, and I really think that it has prepared me for life outside of high school. It teaches all the basics in finance that adults need to know. I am not an expert in financial terminology, but that class did a great job explaining to me all the essential things to be successful when it comes to money.

-Samantha Warczinsky

helped me prepare for every activity that I wanted to be a part of. Ryan Kramer, my FFA public speaking coach, was another person that put my success above his own. I owe every ounce of my public speaking success to him. While the teachers, coaches, and administrators at Ubly are incredible, Ubly’s cross country team and FFA program have had the greatest impact on my life. Garrett Jurges, Melissa Kramer, Ryan Kramer, and Camay Booms have made me the person that I am today.

Maze Gusa

High school is amazing, especially in Ubly. Ubly has given me the possibility of an amazing. The next steps that I was prepared for were everything. All of my high school educational, extracurricular, and career exploration has put me in the position I am now. My school has showered me with gifts of education, opportunity, and even candy.

Two good examples of this are my athletic career with Garrett Jurgess and other cross-country runners, which has taught me about mental toughness, teamwork, and individual goals. Every year we were given a goal sheet which pushed the envelope for runners advancing to states and the successful program has made me mentally and physically a better student. I have also received gifts in the form of candy, merchandise, and money during track and cross-country season. This truly shows me how much the school’s alumni truly care about Ubly and its community. Community is everything Ubly is about and has caused me to have such an advantageous network. This stretches from the tech center faculty all the way to famous athletes because of the way staff have helped push students overcome obstacles and meet new people. Mrs. Camp, a faculty member, recommended my sister and I take up the sport of hockey. Hockey has led me to my greatest passion and second greatest priority. The classroom environment at Ubly as well has always been a great place to ask for help.

The results that I have obtained throughout my four years of high school here at Ubly have given me the edge over other students. I am extremely grateful for what Ubly has offered to me and my other fellow students in my graduating class and cannot wait to see what Ubly offers me in the future. Go Bearcats!

-Andrew Vogel

USA High School Class of 2023

Dear High School, Thank you for helping me prepare for college and life after. You have surrounded me with some of the most amazing teachers and experiences. Because of you, I can play the trumpet, French horn, and mellophone. I was able to experience working with the National Honor Society and the National Technical Honor Society. One of the things I am most grateful for is the ability to go to the Tech Center in Caro. There I took the agri-science class, which allowed

me to work with many different types of animals. I also became a member of the Tech Center FFA. Through FFA, I have been a treasurer and president for chapter officer. I was a member of the National FFA Band this year, which will help me prepare for college. I feel more confident leaving my home and family to pursue a higher education now. I made some amazing friends who I will never forget. My teachers have helped shape me into who I am today. Mr. Aikens helped me build my confidence in

myself. I’m more willing to volunteer for once-in-a-lifetime experiences thanks to him. Mr. Glaspie taught me to speak out more about my personal beliefs. I am now no longer afraid to speak my mind and stand up for myself. Finally, Mrs. McBrayer helped me advance my future plans for college. She helped me schedule dual enrollment classes that she made sure would transfer to Northern Michigan University. Thanks to her, my future is more certain. High School, I will miss walking through

USA High School Class Information

Class Song: Vienna by Billy Joel

Class Motto: In the midst of chaos, there is also opportunity.

Class Flower: Pink Dahlias ( signifies grace, kindness, and beauty))

your halls and hearing the heated debates of AP Lit. I’ll miss listening to sixth graders try to figure out how to play their instruments for the first time. However, most of all, I’ll miss the people I love and the shared memories I have with them. Thank you for preparing me for my future while also allowing me to live my life. I will never forget you, so excuse me when I say, Boy am I ready for what comes next!

Sincerely,

Corinn Torma

Olivia Adams Luiza Alba Samuel Beagle Lance Beringer Layne Carson Cody Clark Emily Faber Brenna Finn Madison Gettel Tegan Gettel

Dalanni Greenfield Lauren Green Seth Gremel Savannah Gunsell Molly Hines Carson Holland Autum Horonzy Jaymisson Hunt Andrew Hornbacher Michael Jacobs

Olivia Jubar Grace Kemp Christopher LaPratt Aydan Litteral Mya Loeffler Michael Lutz James Manetta Monica Nieschulz Kelsey Nitz Genavieve Nowak

Chance Palmer Olivia Peter Autumn Phillips Aidan Querback Robert Rayl Gabriella Reinbold Dirk Rierson Isabella Sanback Nathan Von Schad Kennedy Schember

Mia Stecker Jaelynn Thomas Morgan Thompson Olivia Tomlinson Corinn Torma Joshua Treder Riley Werschky Hanna Wood Megan Wurm Lupita Young

Jailyn Zuzga

North Huron High School Class Information

Class Song: “Wherever I Go” by Hannah Montana

Class Flower: Iris

Class Colors: White and Gold

Class Officers:

President: Emma Hyzer

Vice President: Maggie Koroleski

Treasurer: Grace Knoblock

Secretary: Michaella Vyt-Norton

Student Council Representatives: Jordis Pitts and Katelyn Smith

Annmarie Adkins Emma Case Ethan Champagne Jordan Coleman Mason Hatch Kirsten Helm John Henson Emma Hyzer Grace Knoblock Maggie Koroleski

Kole Kozlowski Cameron McLellan Jacob Miller Jordis Pitts Logan Rice Lola Robison Adam Sabotka Brookelyn Savage Carlee Scoviac Katelyn Smith

Braxton Vigenski Michaella Vyt-Norton Megan Whelan Cody Wolschlager Jessica Young

There is nothing more beautiful than finding your course as

believe

bob aimlessly in the current. Wouldn’t

path

C ongra t s 2 02 3 Grad s!

Tori Iseler

Laker High School

Parents: Brian and Jennifer Iseler

Grandparents: Brad and Mar yLou Iseler, Arnie and Mar y Egger t

Congra tula tions to our 2023 Gradua te,Tori Diane!

You have put so much energy and heart into achieving your goals We are so proud of your accomplishments and the empathetic person that you are.

Celebrating this moment....Celebrating YOU! Love you, Dad, Mom, Jadyn, Brady

Jonah Ordus

Bad Axe High School

Parents: Kim and George Ordus

Grandparents: Ken & Sue Hiemstra, Dorothy and the late George Ordus Sr Jonah, our promise from God! We are so proud of you. God has plans for you and wants to give you the future you hope for Jeremiah 29:11

Forrest Krager

Bad Axe High School

Parents: Brian Krager and Angela Campbell

Grandparents: Richard Krager, Kathleen Green

Forrest year are such a prec ious gif t from God. Thank you for making us proud. Congra tula tions on your gradua tion. Love Mom and Dad

Alexis Kay Wisenbaugh

Ascent High School

Parents: Todd Wisenbaugh Sr and Janelle DeVine

Grandparents: Bennie and Doreen Reese

As you venture out into the world , our love is there, forever-like gold. You are our little girl, always will be. We’re so PROUD!

Karrah Rober ts

Laker High School

Parents: Mike Rober ts and Shelly Rober ts

Grandparents: Doug and Sherr y Rober ts Don and Vikki Born

From our beautiful baby girl, to our beautiful young lady. Sissy Lynn, follow your dreams. You will do great at Ferris. We love you.

Stephanie Erard

Waynesville High School (Missouri)

Missouri Parents: Mike and Paula Erard

Grandparents: Roger and Mona Erard, Barb Andrich, Mike Miller

This chapter is done now you are star ting another new and exc iting chapter in your life. We know you will do grea t!

lucky, you’ll find people who will say “yes” back.”

CONGRATUL ATIONS Area Graduates!

We salute the Graduates from our Agri-Valley Communications family

Morgan Chandler, Laker High School

Regan Emming, Harbor Beach High School

Leah Gothro, Laker High School

John Warren Hunt, Bad Axe High School

Abbey LaPratt, Caro High School

Anthony McCarty, Ubly High School

Hanna Rapson, Bad Axe High School

Jayden Sanchez, Bad Axe High School

“You are about to start the greatest improvisation of all. With no script. No idea what’s going to happen, often with people and places you have never seen before. And you are not in control. So say “yes.” And if you’re

~Stephen Colbert