Speaking of greatness
By BRANDON WORF
For the graduates at the Hays High School 2008 commencement Sunday at Gross Memorial Coliseum, the message was a mixture of hope and pride.
And, it was perhaps the best speech possibly ever given -- or at least an attempt at such a feat.
For many, lasting through the heat and humidity might have been enough of a task, and in the end, the relief that it was finally over was evident.
"This class is, in my opinion, the greatest graduating class in the state of Kansas to date," said Hays High principal Michael L. Hester. "With this graduation ceremony, you have triggered dramatic breakthroughs for your future."
The ceremony began with the traditional processional to "Pomp and Circumstance," as presented by the combined HHS band and orchestra and quickly moved through the Pledge of Allegiance to a dramatic presentation of "An American Hymn," a short collection of patriotic songs presented by the combined choirs, orchestra, and band of the school. The commencement address followed.
"I was glad to know I was the fifth first-pick of all the candidates voted on, behind Arnold Schwarzeneggar and Hannah Montana," said Ron Leikam, social studies teacher at Hays High. "But at least I beat out Brad Pitt."
Leikam gave the commence address to the graduating class of 2008 and centered on a theme of hope, but not before starting off on a light foot.
"When I heard I was going to give the address, I set out to write the best speech I could. But then I realized I was already trying hard enough, so I figured I should try and write the best one ever given at a HHS ceremony," he said. "Then I figured, 'Why not go all the way and write the best speech ever given?' "
After a few laughs, Leikam settled down and gave the class a well-deserved message.
"Many years ago, there was a generation that was born into bad times, and many of you may have heard of them," Leikam said. "They lived through the Great Depression, fought the second World War and gave us rock 'n' roll. Many of you have heard of them, and they're often called the Greatest Generation."
Leikam compared their struggles and their determination to face them with the struggles and challenges that face the class of '08.
"Is there another Greatest Generation out there?" Leikam asked. "We would certainly like to think so as the class of '08 faces some uphill battles in the future, but has shown us they're up to the task."
