Highlights of Fleming-Neon HS

I am the Voice of Democracy, speaking for the freedom of a democracy, for the people of a democracy and for future democracies.

If you are fortunate, you have heard of me many times, yet it is possible that you do not know all I stand for. Do you know the benefits of a democracy? Do you know the joys? Have you lived under me? Are you doing your part to insure my remaining a part of American heritage?

I, Democracy, have been created and founded by men who desired to live a free life, to choose for themselves.

I am, in actuality, as Lincoln so aptly expressed it, a government of the people, by the people, for the people. For who knows better than the people themselves, how they wish to be governed.

Therefore a government of the people means exactly what it says, a government composed of those selected by the people-a democracy.

I am a way of life whereby each individual help make the laws by which he and his fellowman live. Under me men regulate the speeds at which they travel, determine the amount of taxes they shall pay, and punish those of their own number who break their laws.

I provide for those five great freedoms: Freedom of Speech-which permits putting thoughts into words; Freedom of Religion-which allows anyone to worship as they please, or if it be their wish, to not worship at all; Freedom of Press-which presents the facts and truth to the people; Freedom of Assembly-which allows the making of this or any speech to any group; Freedom of Petition-which allows the people to seek redress of their grievances.

Four short words speak for me, Democracy. Those words are United States of America. What better example can be given, than that of a country which by its very existence proves how democracy works.

No, I Democracy, am not merely a word. I am the living, breathing spirit of freedom.

What price has been paid for me, Democracy? The price by many has been the supreme sacrifice, by others their honor, fortunes, and a lifetime of work. At such a high price, should I, Democracy, not be preserved? None can do too much for me, many do too little.

Perhaps you ask, “What is my part in democracy?” Your share along with that of all the other Americans is doing your utmost for democracy. Live a life worthy of the privileges you receive. Perform your duties as a responsible citizen by voting, abiding by the laws, and exercising to the fullest extent the rights and privileges you receive by merely living in a democracy.

Stop a moment and think. Ask yourself these questions: Have I today, by some thought, deed, or action, furthered the cause of democracy? Have I by saying something, or aiding someone demonstrated the true meaning of democ- racy? Is so, then you have contributed in a small way to something very great.

Speak for democracy yourself. Let your voices and actions ring out till their messages are carried to those less fortunate than you.

I believe that, while men burn the spirit of freedom and the will to work for freedom, democracy shall live.

I, Democracy, have spoken for myself. I believe and hope that I have not spoken in vain.

(The above article from the December 16, 1954 Mountain Eagle.)

F-N High School

Graduation Exercises

The Fleming-Neon High School Graduation Exercises will begin with the Baccalaureate Sermon on Sunday, May 15. The Rev. Harry T. Barnett, Pastor of Neon-Fleming and Seco Methodist Churches, will deliver the baccalaureate sermon.

Commencement will be held on Friday, May 20. Mr. Lyman V. Ginger, Dean of Extension, University of Kentucky, will address the graduates. Oliver C. James will give the Valedictory. Patricia A. Sturgill is the Salutatorian.