KEARNY –
The annual Kearny High School Project Graduation festivities featured a very special moment for one member of the Class of 2015. During the post-commencement program, graduate Gustavo Chemin was bowled over by a “surprise guest,” his brother Army National Guard Medic Leonides Chemin, who had been away on basic training.
Leonides, KHS Class of 2010, “just graduated from basic training that day [June 19],” said Steve Dyl, Project Graduation chairman. Also on hand for the unexpected reunion was Gustavo’s other brother, Douglas, KHS Class of 2014.
The entire thing was planned, and kept secret, by a family friend, Leonardo DePaula.
It was one of the highlights of this year’s event, which attracted 296 graduating seniors to the (alcohol-free, drug-free) party ‘til dawn.
Also held that night was the annual Project Grad 50-50 drawing, won this year by Gerry Coppola of Kearny, who pocketed a cool $7,600.
Dyl offered special thanks to Applebee’s, which donated all the food for the party.
“I also want to thank all the teachers, firefighters, police officers and citizens of our town whose continued support makes the event a success,” he said.
And he added, “Also, The Observer for keeping the public aware of Project Graduation events throughout the year.”
To which, The Observer says, “Thank YOU, sir!”
– Karen Zautyk
