Lay, Freeman Benefit

Hundreds of people turned out Thursday night at the Chumuckula Farmers Opry House to show their support for two school leaders accused of violating a court order banning school prayer.

Pace High School Principal Frank Lay, and Athletic Director, Robert Freeman are accused of criminal contempt after they led a blessing at a school luncheon.

The fundraiser started with a prayer.

"We just ask that you be with our school administrators Lord, and keep them strong Lord, and keep them focused on their goal Lord. We ask these things in Christ's name, Amen."

Sandy Wyatt and his family helped organize tonights event.

"We're all just stunned with the revelations the past few months by the ACLU, the problems they've caused in our community and we're just enjoying showing our support for these guys that stood up," said Wyatt.

The Froman family shows their support for Lay and Freeman with T-shirts that say, "Watch for Children Praying."
She says all three of her children will eventually go to Pace high School.

"Ultimately it's going to effect the kids in the long run," said Lechia Froman.

Beverly Feick says the two men are in her prayers.

"They have done nothing wrong and I think it's ridiculous that you can't even say a prayer and this nation was founded on Christian beliefs, and taking prayer away from anybody is the wrong thing to do," said Feick.

If Freeman and Lay are convicted, they could face up to 6 months in jail, or they could each have to pay $5,000.00 in fines.

The men were not at Thursday's event.

Their lawyer, Harry Mihet says they wanted to be there, but decided it was best for them to focus on their profession and be with the pace football team at their game.