By NEAL WAGNER / City Editor

No matter where the Pelham High School class of 2011 goes, they will always have a home in their native city, Pelham Mayor Don Murphy told the students during the May 26 ceremony.

“It’s a choice, not chance, that determines your destiny,” Murphy said. “Love brought y’all here today. Your family has come with you this far, and they will continue with you through life.

“This is a family. You are part of Pelham’s family,” Murphy added. “I’d like to extend the warmest congratulations from the city of Pelham. This is your life. Enjoy it and be happy.”

The ceremony also featured comments by PHS Principal Bob Lavett, senior class President Dorothy Green and a musical performance by valedictorian Tanner Smith, who sang Bruce Springsteen’s “Thunder Road.”

In addition to Murphy, Helena Mayor Sonny Penhale and several members of the Helena and Pelham city councils also attended the event, which was held at the Pelham Civic Complex.

“We can not thank the faculty and staff of Pelham High School enough,” Green said. “Always remember to believe in yourself. It’s not who you are that holds you back, it’s what you think you are not.”

Lavett said the world is looking for the 364-member PHS class of 2011 to do great things and help solve many of the world’s problems.

“We need your leadership now more than ever,” Lavett said. “Continue your education beyond tonight, because you are greatly needed. We need you to become solutions to problems.

“We are very proud of you. We think so much of you all,” Lavett added. “It’s always a great day to be a Pelham Panther.”