SHEEPSKIN IN HAND - Seventy-One Students Graduate, First Lady Gives Keynote

(05/26/2007)

I hope your dreams take you to the corners of your
smiles, to the highest of your hopes, to the windows
of your opportunities, and to the most special places
your heart has ever known.
- Author Unknown

First Lady Gayle Manchin addressed the 83rd commencement exercise at Calhoun High School last night, saying graduation "sets the stage for the rest of life."

Seventy-one students received their diplomas before a packed audience in the school's gymnasium.

She challenged the graduates, saying "Starting today, you are accountable for your actions and choices," reminding them that learning dosen't stop with high school.

Ms. Manchin said graduates are joining a movement, a turning point with the future of West Virginia.

Superintendent Ron Blankenship welcomes
First Lady Gayle Manchin to Calhoun County

Valedictorians Amanda-Alcaraz-May and Hanna Law and Salutatorian Jeremiah Postalwait spoke about challenging one's self, being grateful to parents and family and the value of one's existence and choosing one's legacy.

The high school choir and the school band performed for the event

83RD COMMENCEMENT PROGRAM

National Anthem CCHS Band - Soloist Briana Blankenship

Processional

Invocation - Cory Roberts

Salutatory Address - Jeremiah Postalwait

"My Hope for Your Tomorrow" - CCHS Choir

"Northern Lights" - CCHS Band

Keynote Speaker - First Lady Gayle Manchin

Valedictory Address - Amanda Alcaraz-May

Valedictory Address - Hanna Law

Memories - Class of 2007

Presentation of the Class of 2007 - Karen Kirby, Principal

Acceptance of Class of 2007 - Ronald Blankenship, Superintendent of Schools

Presentation of Diplomas - E. Lee Evans President, Board of Education

Benediction - Seth Jarvis

Recessional