A new journey

Summer is the season for ice cream and graduations.

It’s a time for goodbyes and new beginnings, a celebration of

achievements and all those to come.

Nearly 2,000 high school graduates across Surf City threw their

caps and caution into the wind last week. No more homework, term

papers, exams or study halls ... at least for a while.

Thousands of supportive parents, relatives, teachers and fellow

students crowded onto bleachers, benches and portable chairs to catch

just a glimpse of the colorful robes and to hear the ring of that

special sound -- the name of their favorite graduate.

By the end of the summer, after years of studying and growing up

together, members of the class of 2003 will embark on separate paths.

But at some point, many will return to their families and homes in

Huntington Beach.

And no matter the many changes, they will continue to affect the

community and be recognized around here -- long into the future.