Each year, around this time, we traditionally see the excitement of graduations whether it be from High School, College, Graduate School, Trade Schools, or even Junior High. There is good reason for this excitement as it marks an achievement, a milestone, and should be celebrated by everyone, but especially by loved ones close to the graduates themselves. This year's graduates will miss out on all the pomp and circumstance that usually accompanies this achievement. For various reasons, we are not allowing ourselves to fully celebrate these achievements - we have tempered our celebrations and have, for the most part, done away with commencement. For now, I will set aside the discussion of the wisdom of such actions and concentrate on the graduates themselves. They are indeed to be celebrated and I want to ensure they are and that this special milestone in each of their lives is recognized. 

To that end, for the month of June during Council Remarks I will be reading off names and accomplishments of graduates - giving priority to those from District G. In addition to the recognition at council, I will also acknowledge these deserving graduates on my social media. To graduate from any education program is a historic event in someone's life. I want all graduates of any school, at all levels, to get the recognition they deserve, so I am not restricting this to any one type of graduation. I will happily recognize undergraduates, graduates, doctorates, etc. 

If you want this special recognition for your graduate, I am asking the proud parents, relatives or friends to send in to my office the following:

• The graduate's name, age, school, and degree;
• Any accomplishment or special achievement that needs to be recognized; 
• A recent photo (if available and if desired - to be used only be permission of the graduate);
• The graduate's address and phone number (for internal use by our office only).

Congratulations to the Class of 2020!

Sincerely,