NEW PORT RICHEY - There's a graduation ritual at River Ridge High School that almost no one witnesses except the seniors. As they line up for diplomas, the purple-gowned students stride to a wall at the far end of the gymnasium and touch an "X" marked in masking tape.
Most seniors were not sure Friday why the "X" is even there, saying it is either to help them assemble or a way to remember the school one last time.
But tradition called, and one by one they touched the spot.
Then came Steve Kuntzler. He planted his feet in front of the wall, flung out his arms, leaned forward and kissed the X.
"I'm just so happy to get out of here," the 17-year-old exclaimed a few moments later, diploma in hand. But he soon added: "I'm kind of sad it's over. I want to walk across that stage again."
The optimistic yet nostalgic sentiment could have been expressed by any of the nearly 400 graduates Friday.
Principal Tammy Rabon reminded the graduates that while they are now on their own, they are never alone.
She urged them to take charge of their future. "Your vessel is on the ocean tonight. It is going somewhere. Make sure you direct its course."
Among those receiving diplomas were valedictorian Andrew Czysz and salutatorian Doug Webber, both headed for the University of Florida.
In his address, Czysz spoke of the virtue of integrity, even if it's not readily apparent to everyone else. He urged his peers to seek new experiences, to remain motivated.
Webber, a National Merit Scholar Award finalist as well as the Pasco County School District's Outstanding Senior Student, began with a joke, reminding "C" students that they, too, could become president of the United States.
"No matter the dilemma, progress and improvement will not come without action," Webber said a while later. "What we think or what we know, or what we believe is, in the end, of little consequence. The pivotal consequence is what we do."
The Class of 2003 was successful in the classroom and on the playing fields.
Graduates received $1.2-million in scholarships. Jory Patterson and Juliana Roman were Commended Merit Scholars. Amber Bellefleur was among the St. Petersburg Times scholars. The softball team made it to the Class 4A state final. The volleyball team won the district championship.
There were sad moments, too. The class mourned the loss of Nicholas Kay, who died in December after jumping from a friend's moving car.
