The 2010 Fort Payne High School graduation is scheduled for May 28^th at 7:00 PM at Wildcat Stadium.  On behalf of the Chamber Board of Directors, I want to congratulate the seniors on one of life’s great accomplishments.

In today’s high tech world, education is a must.  More education leads to higher wages and is critical for financial stability and independence.

Education is more than just better jobs.  It is also linked to better physical and mental health, longer lives, less incarceration, and brighter prospects for the next generation.

A high school dropout is four times more likely to be unemployed than a college graduate.  The less education a person has, the more likely he or she is to be unemployed.

On the average, the more education people have, the longer they live. 

Obesity has increased among all Americans.  Yet the more educated are less likely to be overweight or obese.

Our area is fortunate to have Northeast Alabama Community College.   Our high school graduates can obtain an associate degree as well as technical training for area industry related employment.

Please remember to shop Fort Payne first for those graduation gifts.  Great ideas are listed online but can be purchased locally.  Call the Chamber for a list of businesses.

Do not forget Mother’s Day is May 9^th.  No matter the age, a gift can be found in the shops of Fort Payne merchants.

The following is a quote from Sarah Malin in honor of all mothers:  “Your arms were always open when I needed a hug; your heart understood when I needed a friend; your gentle eyes were stern when I needed a lesson; and your strength and love guided me and gave me wings to fly.”