Malta Bend High School Valedictorian Cody Clemons addresses classmates, friends and families Sunday, May 20, at the commencement address for the class of 2007. (Eric Crump/Democrat-News) [Click to enlarge]

Malta Bend High School Valedictorian Cody Clemons acknowledged that his class was small -- a class of 10 is small by most accounts, though it more than doubles last year's class of four -- but he predicted great things for his fellow graduates in the class of 2007.

"We may be small, but I can tell you this, after being around these people, the world will be better because of them," he said.

Clemons quoted from Dr. Suess's "The Places You'll Go," a book he said was "so appropriate for graduation it's scary" including the line, "Will You Succeed? Yes! You Will Indeed! (98 and 3/4 Percent Guaranteed)."

Clemons said that may depend on how graduates define success. If it means material wealth and security, success may or may not happen. He added a quote from the Bible to help make his point.

"For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" (Matthew 16:26).

"In my opinion, success should be measured in a person's character, their integrity," Clemons said. "If we strive for the things that do matter, we'll succeed -- 100 percent guaranteed."

Clemons also noted that the small size of his school and class were immaterial.

"I'm proud to graduate with this class," he said. "I'm also proud to graduate from Malta Bend High School. I wouldn't have it any other way."

Clemons was preceded at the podium by Salutatorian Justine Gorrell, who said she was inspired by the Martina McBride song, "Anyway," which she quoted from, emphasizing the song's refrain "do it anyway" when facing challenges and obstacles in life.

Teacher and FFA sponsor Kristen Fenner sang McBride's song with Clemons accompanying on the piano at the beginning of the commencement ceremony.

The commencement speaker was Billy Gwaltney, CEO and general manager of Mid-Missouri Energy.

"I haven't given a speech in a long time," he said. "I'm used to explaining not inspiring. After listening to Justine and Cody, I am inspired."

Contact Eric Crump at

marshalleditor@socket.net