This week I watched middle school and high school students host a mock debate. Both teams done an amazing job representing both parties.
Judge Sarah Combs was the guest speaker and her words left not only the future generations with much to contemplate, but the adults in the room as well. She encouraged them to always vote no matter what, but to “demand much of the people who present themselves for your vote”.
Judge Combs also quoted President John F. Kennedy’s Trade Mart speech that he had in his coat pocket on the day he was assassinated in November 1963. Even though the election will be over by the time this reaches you, take a moment and let these words sink in.
“We, in this country, in this generation, are – by destiny rather than by choice – the watchmen on the walls of world freedom. We ask, therefore, that we may be worthy of our power and responsibility, that we may exercise our strength with wisdom and restraint, and that we may achieve in our time and for all time the ancient vision of “peace on earth, good will toward men.” That must always underline our strength. For as was written long ago: “except the Lord keep the city, the watchmen waketh but in vain.”
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I spent part of Saturday morning walking around the Red River Museum. So much of your history lies within those old brick walls, it was hard to take it all in.
I enjoyed meeting with the craftsmen and watching as they demonstrated skills that have long since been pushed away. We rely so much on modern technology and having things right at our fingertips that we easily forget that once those “skills” were just part of everyday life.
Inside the Depot that is located on the property there are photos with names covering the walls. After typing the Times Past for years and wondering what those individuals in the articles were like, I was able to finally put faces with the names I type. Their memory lives on thanks to those who take the time to preserve your history.
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I was contacted a few weeks ago by Mrs. Martin who teaches social studies at Powell County Middle School. She told about how several students in her class took it upon themselves to learn more about the mysterious woman who has plagued Egyptologists for centuries.
Monday morning I met with those six seventh graders and congratulated them on such an amazing deed. Make sure to read their story on A-1. Way to go guys. Each of you have done an amazing job.
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As most of you already know, Stanton Elementary scored a distinguished in state testing last year. To celebrate the accomplishment the classes took to dancing in the street Monday afternoon. From the YMCA to the electric slide, the afternoon was filled with music and dancing.
I enjoyed standing on the sidelines laughing along with the kids. I must say though, I must be getting old because some of those dances I have never even heard of. I could have rocked the electric slide though!
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| My father, Johnny Brooks. |
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| My grandfather, James Rabbit Tipton. |
I am honored and humbled to have had numerous family members to serve - my grandfather, great uncles, uncles, and cousins. All Veterans, family or not, deserve our respect and our gratitude, and so I take this moment to thank you for your service.
