Grantham High School - Olympian Yearbook (St Catharines, Ontario Canada)

Page 13 text:

Our Valedictorian Speaks In the past, the format of commencement has been the presentation of an inventory of gratitude, thanks and appreciation to those around us with whom we have lived. This is the very essence and purpose of commence- ment. A final time when we may meet and pay significant and memorable tribute to those who have shared our lives and lightened our burdens in times of strife. It can be said that at times during the proceeding years, we as students did not wholly appreciate the job our teachers were doing for us. Indeed, we frequently questioned them, their ideas, their methods. Were we wrong? I know - detentions, lectures, penalties - but were they really penalties or were they boons? Indeed tliis year, wherever we may be we finally realize the magnitude of the term work . It is not as easy as it appears. For now there is no one to prod us on, to soy hand in your assignment . We must now prod ourselves. It is now that we see the full value of the efforts of our teachers. Were these efforts exasperating? Yes. Were they exhausting? Yes. But were they successful? Yes! On behalf of the class of ' 63, I extend a humble thank-you ' ' to all of the teachers who gave forth their finest efforts for us. Even though we may have lost sight of our goals, or lost confidence in ourselves, there seemed to be always two people who hod faith in us. Whether the third algebra problem seemed impossible, whether the English essay was overwhelming, or in fact, if learning six chapters of Trig, for the finals was reserved ' til the night before, we could always turn to them and find a comforting phrase or a note of inspiration. Of course I speak of our parents. This year, whether studying at university, working in industry, or forming any other facet of society, we all, perhaps more clearly than at any other time, realize the sacrifices they have mode for us, and the unselfish love and affection they have provided. The hardships and trials we encountered may seem great, but in reality they ore small compared to the efforts our parents have made to provide us with the blessings that ore so evident now. At this time I think I may speak for all of us and say. Thanks Mom, Thanks Dad. Yes, the gratitude is expressed, but still there is another and more personal aspect of com- mencement. As we gaze about this room, we see many familiar faces of friends, parents, teachers, and, just as they ore a part of this ceremony, they are a part of our lives during these past years at Grantham. This evening marks perhaps the final time that we will ever be assembled as a group ogoin, for once more when this evening is over, we will go our separate ways and return to our new environments. This night, the final link with our life here, is not yet over and we still remain together. The days of the post and the colleagues of our days of the past here are assembl- ed still and may share our emotions on this day. The post has been assembled once again - the atmosphere has been restored this evening. But this evening is short and this evening is farewell. It is now that we may express a parting word and to all those with whom we have lived extend wishes for success in their endeavours, prosperity in the future, and an appreciation of their friendship. Valedictorian,

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The Corporation of the City of St. Catharines Today, we are cognizant of the need for preparedness to meet tfie ever increasing responsibilities for the future. The educational system, the fine schools and the many opportune vocations available, particularly to the youth of our City, offer unlimited knovi ' ledge to all who have the desire and foresight to learn. We must agree that there is no limit to learning nor is there any limit to the success which can be attained in this world of research and opportunity. To the graduates of 1964, the City Coundl extends congratulations and sincere best wishes for a bright and successful future. Mayor Ivan D. Buchanan and Members of the City Council.

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COMMENCEMENT The annual Commencement Exercises were held in the auditorium of Grantham High School, November 1, 1963. The Exercises opened with the processional. The Invocation was delivered by the Reverend Charles D. Henderson. Short addresses were then given by our Principal, Mr. G.A. Armstrong, Mr. J.G. McGill, Mr. F. Harvie, and the Mayor of St. Catharines, Mr. I.D. Buchanan. After a brief introduction by Mr. J. Engemann, the guest speaker. Dr. S.H. Deeks, Vice- President of Brock University, gave his message. Graduate D. Henry thanked Dr. Deeks. Secondary School Graduation Diplomas were presented to eighty-six students. Seventy-two Graduates received Honour Graduation Diplomas. Walter Cherwinski, on behalf of the Graduating Class, gave the Valedictory Address. Graduate Cherwinski was presented with the Valedictorian Award by Mr. V.S. Dugo.