Local Bartow High School Valedictorian David Gornoski delivered a fire-packed, at times religious and political, keynote address at the school'ss graduation ceremony this past Tuesday. Gornoski used the platform to lambaste public schools for their refusal to teach Intelligent Design; challenge secular political organizations; denounce government reliance as well as urge students to [keep focus on what is lasting. Tuesday'ss event was a jam-packed spectacle with school officials estimating an attendance of approx. 7,000 individuals. Many would-be attendees were reportedly turned away due to the immense crowding. The large audience was widely receptive of Gornoski'ss speech. In the speech, Gornoski gave a stirring introduction to Jesus Christ, whom he thanked for his success: I'sm talking about the Greatest Teacher! I'sm talking about the Great Physician! I'sm talking about the King of Kings! I'sm talking about my Lord and Savior. Jesus Christ! Much of the crowd responded with a standing ovation. He went on to address alleged cultural assaults on Christianity. We live in a society today that wants to mock and vilify Jesus and anyone who follows his teachings. Some people are even trying to outlaw Judeo-Christian philosophy from the public square. Even in our schools. The student went on to address the hotly debated issue of Intelligent Design in public schools: The majority of our country believes in an intelligent designer with a plan for our lives yet public schools teach children that we are but accidents with no real purpose. I feel sorry for any student convinced through evolution science that mating and protecting territory is their highest purpose in life. It is no surprise then that since the decades when creation was replaced by survival of the fittest violent crime has surged over 330% according to Specialty Research Associates. Gornoski went on to provide a personal experience of the supposed violence increase. When you'sve seen students laugh as they stomp on a person'ss head, you'sve seen this statistic. The valedictorian challenged anti-religious activist groups. I am well aware that there are many political organizations that would like nothing more than to silence free speech such as mine for the mere mention of Jesus. Well to them I simply say, 'sBring. It. On!'s Government too, was mentioned. Life can be difficult at times but do not rely on government and other institutions of many to solve your problems. Remember, we are not of this world but are merely passing through. The second portion of his speech was dedicated largely to asking students to keep perspective on life. Many Valedictorians might suggest that success is excellence in the quest for knowledge. But I would argue that true success is found in unwavering adherence to a higher calling. It is a calling that transcends grades, money, and good looks's8212;a calling that will be assaulted at every turn. While the student named Jesus in his personal thank you'ss, he kept his direct message to the students general in an attempt to include people of all walks of life and beliefs. The pursuit of knowledge and pleasure may bring superficial happiness and success. But looks, pleasure, money, and recognition are all fleeting Wisdom dictates living a life of honor, dignity, and compassion for others. Many noted the highly receptive and engaged audience'ss excited cheers and applause throughout the speech. Some people had tears in their eyesI saw people chanting things such as 'sAmerica!'s noted an audience member. It'ss about time someone spoke out and said this. We'sve had to be silent for too long now. That needed to be said, noted a lady in attendance after the program commenced. Contacts: News Information: E-mpire Ltd Co. 863-533-2534 Student Contact: David Gornoski 863-644-9232 School Contact: Bartow High School 1270 South Broadway Bartow, Florida 33830 863-534-7400 About: E-mpire is an online media information network dedicated to providing comprehensive news services to a variety of markets.