Year of the Tigers

Three friends, part of the first graduating class of JROTC members at Douglas High School, spoke about the end of their school years together.

"It hasn't hit home yet," said Theresa Owens.

To Brittany Warren, graduating means, "I don't have be here at 6:30 a.m. on Monday."

"We never have to come here again," said Jessica Burgoon.

Although the idea of graduation hadn't sunk in yet, the young women all have plans. Owens is going to University College in Maine to take captive wildlife care and education, the study of the care of zoo animals. Warren enlisted in the Air Force and will report to San Antonio, Texas, for basic training in August. Burgoon will attend the University of Nevada, Reno, for a psychology and sociology double major.

The support of friends, family, teachers and the community figured into the messages brought by student speakers during the graduation ceremony of the Douglas High School class of 2010 on Friday.

Valedictorian Julia Miller recognized the power of community. "It takes a Valley to raise a teenager, and our community has been there for us."

Lizbeth Garcia Limon will study nursing at Western Nevada College, but wasn't sure she was going to graduate until three weeks ago.

"Mrs. Alley and Mrs. Winter helped me and I passed my math proficiency test," Limon said. "Thanks to my teachers for helping, believing and ultimately helping me to get to where I am today."

Limon's advice to her fellow students, "Keep walking, don't stop. It will pay off."

Salutatorian Nicole Duster said she was inspired by her family.

"We are truly blessed to have those who have loved and supported us," Duster said.

Sara Mangiaracina, who will study nursing, thanked her father and teachers for their support during high school.

"I thought of quitting and almost did. In the end, I had to stand and deliver," said Mangiaracina. "I hope (my teachers) get as much praise as they give."

Kevin Kendrick will study philosophy and political science at the University of Washington. He invited his classmates to take command of their destiny.

"We're the leaders of tomorrow," Kendrick said. "We can put actions toward our dreams. Be the class to keep the dream alive."

The Douglas Tigers graduating in the year of the tiger were invited back to visit by Principal Marty Swisher.

"Once a tiger, always a tiger," Swisher said.

As a Douglas class of 2000 graduate, five-year teacher and coach at DHS, Joe Andrews has been part of a few graduation ceremonies at the school.

"I get to relive graduation year after year," Andrews said. "It's nice to pass down traditions. This is a good way to say goodbye to the kids."