SALEM – The Class of 2007 at Mt. Abram High School will be remembered as spirited, happy and genuine, Principal Jeanne Tucker said after Friday evening’s commencement. They were recognized by the school board as the most school spirited of any class, she said.

With words of gratitude to family, teachers and friends, Salutatorian Shem Dixon of Avon addressed the packed auditorium, reminding them that although they spent the last four years together, it was just an interval in their lives.

“When you look at the content of the interval, you can begin to understand the influence that it has had on our lives,” he said. “As Sherwood Anderson would say, our time here has ‘become but a background on which to paint the dreams’ of our future.”

Dixon referenced the exciting and different destinations the 65 members of the class have chosen. “With the wide variety of interests and strengths we possess, I take heart and know that no matter what each of us chooses to do, we will be successful at it, and we will make a difference,” he said.

Out of the 65 members, 81 percent have chosen to go on to college, Tucker said. To help that endeavor, a total of $99,975 was given in scholarship awards during the ceremony, she said.

Valedictorian Eric Richards of Strong also thanked those who have been there to support them.

“It’s been an adventure, and I don’t think we’ve caused any white hairs a little dye won’t fix,” he said.

“Any day you draw breath is a day you can learn something and better yourself. Remember life is a journey, so take the long, interesting scenic route,” Richards said.

For Superintendent Quenten Clark this was a special class, he said, because “you were in kindergarten when I came to the school system as principal at the Phillips School.”

Diplomas, hugs and kisses were bestowed on each graduate by their senior advisers, Tucker said.

Teacher Greta Espeaignnette, who has been under treatment at Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston since March, came to honor her students before returning to the hospital Friday night, said Larry Pinkham of Phillips, whose son, Leo, graduated. It was really nice, he said.

The SAD 58 band played “The Star-Spangled Banner,” and a slide show of students created by J.D. Howard was shown. Class marshals Bethany Wheeler and Zack Tranten led the class processional and recessional.