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Congratulations to the high school graduates in our region and across our nation.
Now get out there and make our world a better place to live!
Yes, that may sound like a tall order, but start by working to improve your own life -- and your future.
It starts with a strong work ethic.
There is no substitute.
Don’t look for instant or easy gratification… that comes to a lucky few.
Pay your dues, as they say.
Find work that you enjoy… that’s fulfilling and impactful, and make it a career.
Barth Keck, a high school teacher in Connecticut, wrote last year at this time that young adults entering a world of college, trade school, travel, work or some other definitively non-high school exploit, "you have no doubt been told countless times that you are 'the future.'
"Well, I'm here today to take back that cliche. It is my heartfelt belief that, rather than the future, you are absolutely the present, the now. You are, quite simply, the generation that provides this country -- perhaps this entire world -- its last best hope for survival. In fact, you have no time to waste, so could you please start leading the way, like, immediately?"
Rather dramatic, but no less true.
The Express is proud to offer today its "Salute to Graduates" special edition featuring photos of our proud seniors.
And thanks to the advertisers who support them!
Our nation -- and our communities -- need young people to lead, to do good work and improve our collective lot.
Teachers. Entrepreneurs. Scientists. Pilots. Conservationists. Writers and journalists.
There are more opportunities out there than anyone can imagine.
Continue your education, we urge. At least keep learning.
Please don't sell yourself short.
Be a team player.
Help empower others -- it will empower you.
And remember, the future is now.
Your future -- and ours together -- is only as good as the work you put into it.