Class of 2007 receives G-AHS diplomas
By PAT FRIDGEN Echo Pilot

The Greencastle-Antrim High School Class of 2007 assembled in the school's auditorium for their commencement ceremony. See Page A-3 for complete list of 221 graduates.

The call was made at 4 p.m. and it proved to be prophetic.

Retiring high school Principal Jack Appleby, making one of his last official decisions, elected to move graduation ceremonies indoors. With temperatures in the 90s, the air calm and the sun bright, he chose to play it safe. By the time the diplomas were handed out, a severe storm had struck.

Two-hundred twenty-one seniors joined together one last time for the 6 p.m. Commencement Ceremony at Greencastle- Antrim High School on June 8. Proud families and friends filled the auditorium to witness the milestone event in person. An overflow crowd filled the cafeteria to watch the program on large-screen monitors.

The Class of 2007 numering 221 received advice, encouragement and thanks from a number of speakers, and finally, their diplomas.

Make an impact

Featured speaker Ken Berry urged the graduates to make an impact on the people they encountered, and to do that meant going a little bit further than expected.

Class president Brittany Main was all smiles before her welcome address to classmates, their family and friends.

The Orthopedic Physician's Assistant from Hagerstown thruwalked the Appalachian Trail, raising money for the Community Free Clinic. He was able to make an impact, he said.

He brought to the stage a box containing something that could also make an impact.

"It is a tool used to stop and start wars. It can be intimate or break bones. It carries a level of risk," said Berry.

He opened the box and lifted out a cow tongue.

"You will never remember who I am, but you will remember this disgusting two-pound cow tongue. It made a lasting impression."

He told the graduates to go out and do the same in the community.

Students speak

Valedictorian Matthew George said, "The day we thought would never come has arrived."

He thanked the teachers for caring, parents for loving and friends for the memories.

He told his favorite joke about two muffins in the oven. One said, "It's hot in here." The other replied, "Dude, you're a talking muffin!"

Following the mixed reaction by the audience, he said it had nothing to do with anything.

He concluded by telling his classmates to acknowledge Christ and He would direct their paths.

Valedictorian Mark Mohler wished success upon the students who would be continuing their education or entering the workforce.

"Some of us know what we want to do," he said. "Some of us, like me, have no idea."

He told the graduates to keep their options open and that varied knowledge could be priceless in the future. In considering where they wanted to be in 10 or 20 years, he said to be smart in making choices.

"People who achieve great things work hard. I hope we can find a place and make a difference."

Salutatorian Emily Izer said the speech was her first in public.

"I'm not qualified to give advice and we all know blondes are dumb, anyway," she quipped.

She credited the community of Greencastle with shaping them by its good character, helpfulness and pride. She was grateful to the teachers for giving the students "a great start in the world following thirteen amazing years in school" and she asked her peers to remember where they came from.

Salutatorian Katherine Barnhart recalled the excitement they all felt as kindergartners, focusing on the bus, book bags and friends. Through the years they shared many memorable events.

"Here we are," she said. "We entered high school as one and today we leave as one. It was all worth it."

Never again would the class be so focused on a common goal. The night was bittersweet but the future was exciting.

"Continue to shape the world and transform the future."

Thoughts

Substitute superintendent Greg Hoover told the parents that the 13-year roller coaster ride with their children was only stopping briefly and actually went on forever.

He told the graduates their first grade year was his first year working in the elementary building.

"You guys were cute once."

He told them they were excited about learning then and to continue to take opportunities to learn enthusiastically.

Class president Britanny Main presented the welcome. She said the seniors were unique and excelled in many areas. They were a close group that had conquered many challenges.

"Our experiences prepare us for our future," she said. She thanked everyone who helped them along the way.

Appleby said of the 34 graduations he participated in at G-AHS, the cow tongue was the best. In charge of the ceremony for the 25th time, it was also his last.

"Can this class try your patience?" he asked. "Yes, right to the limit."

He commended the students for their academic excellence and leadership. He thanked the community for its support of education.

"I'm a much better person for having worked here."

He then presented the Class of 2007.

Musical interludes

Various musical selections punctuated the ceremony. The Concert Band, under the direction of Samuel Forney, played 'Fate of the Gods' as the Prelude, 'Pomp and Circumstance' during the Processional, and the 'Star Spangled Banner' with Anita Hoover as Drum Major. The band played 'Huldigungsmarsch' for the Recessional.

Senior Choral Students sang 'Pomp Under Any Circumstance' while Ronnie Bingaman performed his original song on guitar.

The audience joined in on 'The Alma Mater'. Winifred Harvie was present as Choir Director.

Reverend Lee Nunemaker offered the Invocation and Benediction.

Members of the faculty and administration called up the graduates and members of the school board handed out the diplomas. A reception followed in the cafeteria.