GRADUATES
School District 43 celebrated the scholarly accomplishments of 95 graduating Grade 12 students during the aboriginal education department’s fifth annual honouring ceremony.
The event, which took place at the at the Hard Rock Casino Vancouver in Coquitlam on June 18, saw Molly Lorrette of Pinetree secondary sing ‘O Canada.’ Nik Dragon, a Suwa’lkh grad and Warrior Within, performed as did the band ABOD. As well, Kelsey Baker, the Siyam, gave an inspiring speech.
FOR THE KIDS
Brother Don Payne of the Langley Elks Lodge No. 259 and president Bob Pringle last month presented $500 to Maura Fitzpatrick of the Coquitlam-based Children of the Streets Society.
The money will be used to support their efforts to stop the sexual exploitation and human trafficking of children and youth.
As well, the non-profit group also took in $2,500 from the Rotary Club of Richmond Sunrise. “Every year, we have more schools requesting our services to help educate their students on how to remain safe from sexual exploitation,” Fitzpatrick said in a news release.
WAR CHAMP
A Port Coquitlam War Amps champ was in the Steveston Salmon Festival parade in Richmond to pass along the Playsafe/Drivesafe message.
The theme of the War Amp float was Mean Machines and safety ambassador Jasmine Carlin is helping kids learn about the dangers of machines including lawn mowers.
The 20-year-old woman has met children who have lost limbs in accidents that could have been prevented. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Champ program, which offers financial aid for artificial limbs, regional seminars and peer support, according to a press release.
