LETTER: Better manners would be welcome at graduations

On June 9, our family had the pleasure of attending the Moses Lake High School graduation ceremony at Lions Field. It was the 11th graduation ceremony for us since 1978.

The wind was really blowing, but with caps flying all over, it was really good. All the 300-some graduates turned their tassels and filed out together with loud applause, music and cheers, the way it should be.

On June 18, my great-nephew graduated from the flight program at Big Bend’s ceremony at Lions Field. “The Squad” from the coast were here, plus us. Everything went well for quite some time.

Then we noticed that some graduates who had received their degrees were walking out (after having their names called plus family being given the opportunity to take pictures).

Now, let me explain this picture. The minute those particular graduates’ people saw them leaving, the stampede was on, clamoring down from their seats and not considering those graduates who had yet to receive their diplomas. The ceremony was still in progress, but due to the stampede, a lot of the families were unable to see, hear or take pictures of their graduates. Maybe the officials at Big Bend should encourage any future graduates to stay until the ceremony is complete, if for no other reason than respect.

Now, for my first place “Finger of Shame” award. It is pointed directly at those who sit in the section designated for the elderly or special needs who are not in that category.

Second, there are those who feel privileged that they have the right to stand by the railing, blocking the view of those sitting behind them.

We had one of those that night. I estimate he was six feet and younger than 50 and had been there from the get-go. When the diplomas were about to be given out, my daughter went and politely asked him to move or crouch down, as people behind would like to see. The response was, “I need to see too.”

This is where the old phrase comes in: “His momma sure didn’t teach him right.” I have never questioned or considered who is the authority over Lions Field until now.

My grandson is a Maverick and plays high school football. My son Jason and I attend the games. I have never seen anyone disrespect the special seating area. My family really takes care of me, although in my 80s, I’m still somewhat an independent opinionated person.

At the Big Bend ceremony, while I was sitting in the third row up with my Squad, an elderly couple (the gentleman was using a cane) were looking for seats. Eventually they wound up sitting in the row behind me. It was a struggle. Actually, they should have been seated in the proper special seating.

Would it be possible for those in authority to take care of Lions Field to remedy the situation and regulate the special seating area at events such as graduation ceremonies?

After attending now my 12th graduation ceremony over the years, I have a bit of advice.

No. 1: Get to the event early as much as an hour or more before, or you will find it difficult to find seating. You can find out when the gates open.

No. 2: Consider the weather: Hot? Rainy? Good for wee babes? For you?

No. 3: Bring water.

No. 4: Be kind and respectful. Show people your momma taught you right.

With best wishes and a great future to all graduates,

Joan M. Green

Moses Lake