Fifty years ago the members of the Almonte Lions Club took on a very ambitious project. They looked for a way to honour the very best students in the graduating class of Almonte and District High School (ADHS). Additionally, they wanted to recognize and congratulate the hard working staff of ADHS who were nurturing the very best in their students. Finally, they also wanted to memorialize a local hero, Robert Tait McKenzie. Starting in 1967, the R. Tait McKenzie awards were initiated. It could hardly have been imagined at the time how significant these awards would become to the students, staff, and the greater Almonte community over the next fifty years!
For fifty consecutive years, the Lions and the staff at ADHS have collaboratively worked together to identify two students who best exemplify the ideals of Tait McKenzie and of our community. Academic excellence, coupled with exemplary contributions to school and community are the criteria applied to the selection process. The task to select “the best among the best “ in our community high school, is always an extremely difficult task. Each year, the stellar calibre of all of the candidates highlights the wonderful educational opportunities afforded by the schools in our community. The awards night has become a true celebration of the many blessings we enjoy in this community!
You are invited to attend our Golden Anniversary celebration on Friday May 20th at 7pm. The finalists for this year’s awards will be showcased and the two successful candidates will have their names added to the plaque. We are encouraging as many of the former winners as possible, to attend this year’s celebration. In the finest of “old school” traditions, we will be back in the ADHS gym where so many significant events have occurred over the years. Coffee, tea, and dessert will be provided. Tickets are only $10 each and all proceeds will be channeled back into the awards program. Tickets are available at Baker Bob’s and from the ADHS main office. Please make every effort to join us as we look back 50 years and look ahead to 50 more!
We hope to see you on the 20thof May 2016.
Bob Bassett, on behalf of the Almonte Lions Club.
