It was vintage Johnston High School during a fun-filled celebration for yet another marvelous milestone in the Panther’s story-rich history book.

For starters, Lisa Abbenante, the Executive Director of the award-winning Tomorrow Fund, was smiling from ear-to-ear during a check presentation held inside the JHS lobby.

Officers of JHS Student Council — as well as officers of the JHS Class of 2023 — proudly presented Abbenante with what may become a timeless tradition on Cherry Hill.

At approximately one o’clock, JHS Student Council President Charles “Charlie” Curci was joined by fellow proud Panther class officials Senior Class President Josephine Olagundoye, Junior Class President Alessandra Pesare and Sophomore Class President Lucas Anderson, as they presented Abbenante with a check totaling $945.

Perhaps it goes without saying, but Abbenante issued a heart-warming “Thank You” to the Johnston High School family for once again supporting the children who are battling cancer at nationally acclaimed Hasbro Children’s Hospital in Providence.

“Our students are always proud to again make this annual donation,” said Greg Russo, chairman of the JHS Science Department who also serves as Faculty Advisor for the Student Council and other school student organizations. “This is a donation that is made possible by everyone here at JHS.”

As Russo explained, “during the past school year we collected money through having faculty and staff dress down days on selected Fridays. The students are proud that they raised this much money from our annual drive.”

During his tenure on Cherry Hill, Russo has established such stories tradition as the Tomorrow Fund Drive, Movie Night, Battle of the Classes and JHS’ seemingly unmatched Homecoming that includes the only town-side parade in the state handmade floats from each of the four classes as well as the crowning of the King and Queen home that will again be held at halftime of the Panthers Oct. 29 home football game.

During the recent ceremony, Student Council officers — Corresponding Secretary Talia LaFlamme, Recording Secretary Raylin Santos, Recording Secretary MIchaelina Irons and Vice President Alexia DiLorenzo — also took part in the ceremony.