Friday, May 25, 2001

The Natchez Democrat

FERRIDAY, La. – Holding balloons and banners, friends and

family yelled, clapped and high-fived each other as Ferriday High’s

76 graduates marched into the school’s gym during Thursday night’s

graduation ceremonies.

&uot;We’re happy — a little bit scared because we’re leaving

something we’re used to — but excited,&uot; Valedictorian Robert

Taylor said while waiting to march into the building to &uot;Pomp

and Circumstance.&uot;

Honors graduate Chelsea Conner admitted that the event was

a bit &uot;traumatic&uot; due to storms that forced officials

to hastily move the ceremony from the school’s football field

to the gym.

But, Conner said, &uot;We’re happy, … and proud of our accomplishments.&uot;

In their speeches, the Class of 2001’s top academic students

acknowledged that they might not have made it this far without

the help of parents, teachers and mentors. &uot;To everyone who

was and is an influence in our lives, we give you thanks,&uot;

said Salutatorian Tracey Allen.

&uot;Our hearts are filled with gratitude and love,&uot;

Taylor said during his speech.

He also encouraged his fellow students to &uot;follow the

goals you set forth for yourself. … This is not only an end,

but the beginning of our explorations of the real world.&uot;

Fred Butcher, who is ending his first year as Ferriday High’s

interim principal, said he believes that he and the school’s students

have formed a close relationship this year. Butcher told students

that as long as they stay close to God and their parents &uot;and

keep your eyes on the prize, you’ll be OK.&uot;

In addition, more than 20 academic, athletic and leadership

scholarships were awarded to graduates during the ceremony.