Law Day, May 1, 2009

Southwest Magnet High School

and

Law Academy

Bibb County, Georgia

The image above is from the 2009 Law Day conducted by the Southwest Magnet High School and Law Academy. The Director of the Law Academy is Mr. Henry C. Ficklin. It was my priviledge to attend their Luncheon today and to hear an inspiring speech by Mr. Dennis W. Beya of the Secretary of Education's Southeast Office in Atlanta, Georgia.

The speech focused on the fact that we all are living in interesting times. That stated, Mr. Beya discussed his background briefly and also why he dedicated his life to education. In conclusion he reminded us all, and placed special emphasis on what our next generation of Leaders need to be effective. He reminded us all that we need to be honest, have character, possess integrity, and also act on our values.

The Southwest Philharmonic Society, a vocal group directed by Jimmy Mills and the Southwest Band Ensemble directed by Dominique Lane provided very appropriate music for this event. The high point of the affair was watching the Cadets of the Law Academy in action. These young men and women certainly displayed their character and their values. They are most certainly a credit to Themselves, their respective Families, their Faith Communities, their School and the Community at large. We the citizens of Macon and Bibb County can most certainly be proud of these young people.

After a delightful Lunch, those who could were invited to attend a Mock Trial Freshman/Sophomore Competition. In as much as I am a retiree I took the opportunity to attend this event. I was totally impressed with the conduct of the participants in this Mock Trial.

Our future is indeed in Good Hands with future citizens coming up through programs such as are provided by the Southwest Law Academy in Macon, Georgia.