In expanded coverage of the Hastings Graduation ceremonies, KDWA features several of the voices from that very special event. During the pre-ceremony preparations, the band featured several tunes that wafted across the field to the stands, filled to capacity with what seemed to be the entire Hastings community. Many of those seated had listened for the announcement early in the day that the event would indeed be held outside and rushed to the stadium to reserve their prime spot with blankets of every hue. Outside the gates was John DeWall, horticulture teacher and coach. He had something to say to his students.
We also asked him about a graduation tradition he has shaking their hands, giving those seniors a smile or a high five as they enter the stadium.
We then moved just inside the gates for some comments from the graduates as they entered. At the front of the line was Bob Majeske, retiring this summer after 37 years in the district.
The long winding line of blue robes stretched from the tennis courts down the hill into the west parking area and they began to move toward the waiting crowd. One of KDWA’s own, Reggie Bauer set the tone by telling us an important thing to remember on graduation day.
William Caturia wore a national honor society emblem on his white stole and told us his plans after graduation.
Maddie Cook and Dan Egger each shared something for classmates to remember.
Many familiar faces passed by us in the rapidly moving line. Many had shared their school voices with us this year and we heard from another familiar voice, Cassandra Hodgson who told us what was in store for her after graduation.
Former Drum Major Laura Lunde waited to cross the grass where she had led the Raiders marching band for many shows last fall. We found out what she will do next.
The line continued with many artistically decorated mortarboards some with glitter, rhinestones, ribbons and photos and a few with, well.. carefully-worded messages such as Sabrina Astar’s which read “Thanks Mom, Dad, Coffee, and Google.” Stopping for our KDWA microphone was Johnathan Moes, one of the speakers for the commencement program. We asked him for a sample from his message.
From the first to the last of the 365 Hastings Graduates, lined up alphabetically, we asked Reid Zietlow what was next for him
We thank the class of 2015 for sharing their stories with us and wish them the best as they move forward.
(photo by Dan Massman)
