Clift Park was host to Skaneateles High School’s 60th Commencement exercise Sunday June 27. The Class of 2010 couldn’t have asked for a hotter day to jump in the lake.

The graduates marched to their seats to accompaniment by the high school band. The band, under the direction of Angelo Candelo, also performed the National Anthem.

Victoria Sakal gave the Valedictory Address. She encouraged her classmates not to seek perfection, but to persist just as they always have. And most of all, “Don’t stop believing!”

Before diplomas were presented, graduates heard from Board of Education President Irene Stafford. Stafford stressed education as a priority, especially with cuts being made at the state level. She thanked everyone for being a part of one the largest budget vote turnouts in local history.

“You are from Skaneateles and you will make a difference,” Stafford said to the graduates.

After the final diploma was presented, there was one thing on the minds of all in attendance. Sandals and shoes were being slipped off among the graduating class. Parents, relatives and friends were making their way to the water’s edge. A refreshing dip was all too near.

But first, High School Principal Georgette Hoskins had to present the awards. She knew better than to draw it out.

“I’m going to skip the award descriptor this year,” she said, before awarding over 100 scholarships to the class of 155 students.

When the ceremony’s end did come, the graduates barely paused to turn their tassels and toss their caps before sprinting toward the lake for the most refreshing dip of their lives.

They took with them encouraging words from fellow graduate Carrie Buck, who delivered the closing address. Her words were sweetened with a candy jar analogy.

“Never let anyone try to hide or change your flavor,” she said. “Let’s be the greatest candy jar the world has ever known.”

For more photos from graduation day, follow our photo reprints link on this page.