Thank you so much for publishing the excellent valedictorian addresses of the 2018 high school graduates (also in 2017). These speeches are by far the most inspirational material I have read in your fine prize-winning newspaper. I have been a faithful reader of the Gazette for more than 30 years.
It is encouraging to know that when our elected officials lose their way (like our pathetic city council obviously has with their lack of common sense and dreadful decision-making) that there are better leaders rising in the ranks, on the right track leading in the right direction even in their youth! The future is hopeful with potential leaders of their calibre preparing for tomorrow's leadership positions.
My heartfelt congratulations go to all the high school graduates and their dedicated teachers and parents who are such a big part of this success story. And to the gifted valedictorians, I want to say I read every one of your speeches with great interest. I was greatly impressed by your maturity, wisdom and values, as well as by your outstanding academic achievements.
I even underlined the timely quotations you included, especially the one by Aristotle about making excellence a habit, not merely an occasional act. Garret Gerrard and his fellow valedictorians truly demonstrated the meaning of true excellence by their speeches.
I wish you all every blessing and success as you courageously take the next step in the Stairway of Life which Nicolas Pacholok so eloquently described "with family, friends and faith" navigating the challenging steps before you. The troubled world needs people like you – a lot!
May God bless you all!
Grateful to be a senior member of the St. Albert community,
Mary Kopp, St. Albert
