This year’s graduating class won’t walk the stage of Meadowbrook for their diplomas, nor will they receive it at the Phoenix Center.
Due to the 2007 graduating class? size, for the first time, graduation was slated to be held in the amphitheater at the Phoenix Center in Pontiac. But Mother Nature played a role in changing that.
According to Lake Orion High School Principal Todd Dunckley, who sent out a letter to graduates? parents, the amphitheater’s tent-style roof suffered severe damage when it collapsed under the weight of heavy snow and ice. This occurred in February.
‘We have been looking forward to conducting our first commencement at this location, hoping the slated May completion date for replacing the roof would be upheld,? he wrote. ‘However, on Thursday morning, April 23rd, the Pontiac Downtown Development Authority contacted Lake Orion High School, informing us that the project would indeed be delayed, and a change in graduation venue would be necessary.?
According to Dunckley, the city of Pontiac provided LOHS with an alternate location in the newly constructed ‘Ultimate Soccer Arena,? located at 867 South Boulevard in Pontiac.
‘This arena offers the full realm of space, ambiance and overall quality that is the Lake Orion graduation tradition,? Dunckley said.
He added that a stage will be constructed and seating moved into the air-conditioned facility to accommodate the high school’s specific needs.
The Ultimate Soccer Arena also features newly paved parking lots on their grounds, and valet and shuttle parking will be provided.
Dunckley also noted that the ground will be artificial turf, and reminded students to keep this in mind when selecting dress shoes, adding ‘spiked heels should be avoided.?
Photos and information about the facility can be found at www.ultimatesoccerarenas.com.