Gloomy weather didn't dampen the spirit of the Class of 2006. They marched proudly into the Garden City High School gymnasium as the Ceremony Winds Group, conducted by Brandon Psenicha, performed Pomp and Circumstances March No. 1. The Senior Chorale gave a magnificent rendition of The Star Spangled Banner, followed by the Alma Mater and Always There.

High School Principal Hank Hardy welcomed students, parents, grandparents and friends. He introduced Senator Charles Schumer who tore up his speech, which received a huge round of applause, due to the heat. Senator Schumer congratulated the graduates and wished them success in all their endeavors.

Leah Munnelly and Kristen Muscarella, co-vice presidents of the Class of 2006, presented the class gift of an electronic display board to Garden City High School. Class President Michael Dooley thanked parents, teachers and friends for their support in helping to make the high school journey a successful and rewarding one for him and his classmates. He spoke about education as a privilege, not a chore, and encouraged the graduates to find their passions and pursue them. Salutatorian Michaela Pewarski said that the Class of 2006 has demonstrated great team work in the classroom, on the stage and on the athletic field. Pewarski described the class as one that had come together and done great things.

Keynote speaker Jennifer McLogan, WCBS News correspondent, related three career stories that concluded with three powerful messages:

• Grow in life and in your work. Go outside your comfort zone to accomplish this.

• Run the race; take a chance. If you don't push yourself, you don't know what you can do.

• The Garden City bubble is fragile. When tragedies strike we realize we have limited time on this planet. Begin your adventure by leading the life you want to live and be bold.

Board of Education President Kenneth Monaghan spoke about leaving "the bubble" and seeing the world in all its colors with an undistorted view. As a remembrance he gave all the students bubbles.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Robert Feirsen said that he had observed the impressive work of the Class of 2006 in the classroom, in the arts, on the athletic field and in the community. Dr. Feirsen told the students that they are well prepared to move on to life after high school and make the world a better place.

Valedictorian Thomas D'Antonio focused on the extraordinary character of the Class of 2006. He said that their actions academically, athletically and in the community have earned the respect of faculty and residents. D'Antonio quoted Coach Tom Flately who, when asked why his team was so successful said, "Because we have more character than characters." In closing, D'Antonio said, "The Class of 2006 will be remembered for having more character than characters."