Chargers Walk Into Future

"It was once said that when it comes to the future, there are three types of people: Those who let it happen, those who make it happen and those who wonder, 'What just happened?'"

Those were the words of Timber Creek Regional High School Class of 2011 co-valedictorian Allie Serabo, who challenged her classmates to be "the initiators of change, not the observers of it."

When Class of 2011 President Joshua Read introduced his classmates at around 6:15 Thursday night, many in the crowd at Ralph E. Ross Stadium feared they would not get to see their loved ones receive their diplomas.

Threatening skies loomed overhead, and it appeared likely the commencement exercises would be forced indoors—a move that would mean far fewer people could witness the stepping-stone ceremony.

About 30 minutes later, after Black Horse Pike Regional School District (BHPRSD) administrator Brian Repici had presented the navy and blue clad Class of 2011 for graduation and after only a handful of students had received their diplomas, a light drizzle began to fall.

The crowd groaned.

Mother Nature got the message.

Count Maryann Carter among those thanking Mother Nature today for calling off the rain and allowing her to watch her son, Salvatore DeSilvio, receive his diploma right where he and his 380-plus classmates should have—on the Timber Creek Regional High School football field.

"I'm just extremely proud. I couldn't wait for this day," Carter said. "I'm excited. God bless him. Salvatore, I love you. ... Congratulations."

Clarence Dunham made the trek all the way down from Syracuse, NY, to watch granddaughter Jasmine Martin graduate from high school.

"It's been a wonderful ride she had, a wonderful four years," Dunham said of his granddaughter, the Chargers' all-time leading basketball scorer and the GT Patch Athlete of the Winter Season. "Jasmine, you know we are very proud of you. You've come a long way. It's great to see you complete your four years and now you're going to Quinnipiac (University), and do a great job."

It was co-valedictorian Kevin Donnelly who first recognized the graduates' parents and guardians for all they had done to get the Class of 2011 to Thursday night.

Donnelly reminisced about the days when the graduates looked to their parents as the people who bought them the cool bookbags and sneakers.

"Besides being a source for money and toys, these grown-ups supported us emotionally," he said. "When we laughed, they laughed right along with us. When we succeeded, they praised us for our accomplishments. When we cried, they helped us resolve our issues. No matter what—someone was there for us."

Co-valedictorian Asha Kuttikattu called on her classmates to be thankful for their friends.

"The relationships that we have gained and strengthened over the past four years have had a major impact on our lives. My friends are like my second family," she said. "And although we will be sad to see them leave, we'll be happy to watch them move on to the next phase of their lives."

BHPRSD board President Joyce Ellis drew on an early 20th century Hollywood star to encourage the graduates to strive for excellence as adults.

"Will Rogers said, 'Even if you're on the right road or on the right track, you'll get run over if you just sit there.' So don't get run over. Get out there and do some good things."

Timber Creek principal Mae Robinson was unable to attend Thursday's graduation due to a back injury.

Vice principal Elizabeth Petitte read a statement on Robinson's behalf.

"When the Class of 2011 joined the Timber Creek family four years ago, you were timid freshmen, searching for lockers and a place to fit in," Robinson said in the statement. "Quickly, you became part of the TC family, getting involved in all of the sports, clubs and activities that we have to offer. Your TC family, your relatives and your community have shaped your interests, your goals and your personalities. ... Wherever you go from here, you take with you all you have done and all those who have touched your lives."

Editor's note: Check back with GT Patch Saturday morning for a photo gallery of Thursday's graduation ceremony and through next Tuesday for video messages from the Class of 2011's top graduates.