Optimists announce oratorical contest

Optimist Club news

The Optimist Club of Van Wert is encouraging area students to speak their minds during its annual oratorical contest, to be held Mar. 3, 2 p.m. at Community Health Professionals, 1159 Westwood Dr., Van Wert.

The topic is “Why My Voice is Important” as part of the Optimist International Oratorical Contest for 2013.

The Optimist Club will judge the local students’ speeches based on content and presentation to determine the top boy and girl winners.

Winners will receive medallions and cash prizes for first ($150), second ($100), and third ($50) place finishes for each group. The two first place winners will advance to the zone or regional level, and possibly the district level for the opportunity to win college scholarships.

Contest applications are available at Van Wert County high schools and middle schools through the guidance office, or may be picked up at Community Health Professionals. Application deadline is February 22.

For more information, or to download an application, visit www.optimist.org, search oratorical contest.