I am writing to encourage our community to support a most worthy cause. On May 31, approximately 275 seniors will reach an important milestone and will graduate from Hermiston High School.

It has been a tradition that the senior class gather that evening to celebrate this accomplishment. Too often, we read stories of senior celebrations turning into tragedy because of drug and alcohol use.

“Project Graduation” provides a fun, alcohol- and drug-free celebration and happens because of parent and community support.

Support can be given to this project in two ways. Individuals may purchase raffle tickets for a new car and /or volunteer to help at the party. The car, which is provided by Tom Denchel Ford, is a 2008 Vapor a silver, four-door Ford Focus. It is a five-speed that also has an AM-FM radio, a CD-MP3 player and air conditioning.

There will be just 1,000 tickets sold, and tickets can be purchased for $20 at Heller and Sons or Eastside Market. The drawing for the car will be at 9 a.m. May 14.

If individuals are interested in helping with the party, they may contact Dorothy at 567- 8441. The party will be from 7:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Volunteers may stay for the entire evening, or sign up for shorter shifts.

As a parent of a Hermiston High school alumna, a teacher in the Hermiston District for 31 years, and a school board member, I encourage support of this project. Let us make one of the most important days in our young people’s life, a safe, fun and positive memory.

Karen Sherman

Hermiston