On Nov. 7, a Freedom Shrine was dedicated at the Calhan High School. Members of the Falcon Exchange Club met with Joan Lawson of Farmers State Bank and Jerry Monks, principal of Calhan High School, for a dedication ceremony.Developed by the National Exchange Club, the Freedom Shrine originated from the Freedom Train that toured the United Sates in 1947, carrying an exhibit of historic documents. The Freedom Shrine is a permanently mounted collection of historic American documents, including the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution of the United States and the Gettysburg Address. It shows people the strength and courage of our forefathers by allowing them to read the immortal words of inspired Americans who changed the course of American history.Although the Freedom Shrines are an exclusive project of Exchange clubs, they could not accomplish the task alone. Businesses, industries and private individuals have provided financial assistance in the past.Through the generous support of Farmers State Bank, the Freedom Shrines provide the community with value and prestige.The Exchange Club of Falcon honored Melissa Ninemire as the Youth of the Month for November. Melissa is a senior at Falcon High School and ranks fifth in a class of 271 students and holds a 4.136 GPA.Melissa is an outstanding volleyball and soccer player for FHS and also belongs to a city club for volleyball. She takes advanced placement classes, the highest courses offered. Melissa has been active as a commissioner in the Link Crew. She has organized activities for incoming freshmen, helping them make a welcomed transition to high school.Melissa is also an officer in the Falcon Business Leaders of America, who participate in competitions throughout the state. She also volunteers at her church. Melissa plans to attend college, majoring in film production. The Falcon Exchange Club presented her with a savings bond and plaque.As part of October’s National Crime Prevention Month, Battalion Chief Cory Galicia was honored as Firefighter of the Year in recognition of his service to youth and the community. Cory has moved through the ranks of the Falcon Fire Department over the past 12-plus years and became battalion chief this year. FFPD Chief Trent Harwig said that Cory’s vision to improve the lives of children exemplifies the mission of the Exchange clubs. Cory has organized the Falcon Fire Explorer Post for youths between the ages of 14 and 21. Much like the scouts, Explorers learn things like respect, discipline and teamwork. Cory also organized a fundraiser, where the money received was used to purchase an electric wheel chair for a youth who had lost both legs to child abuse. The Exchange Club of Falcon was pleased to honor this man as the 2009 Firefighter of the Year. For more information about the Falcon Exchange Club, contact Bob Miller at 641-0752 or Joe Bauer at 262-9222 and visit the club Web site, www.thefalconexchangeclub.org.
