Rotary Club Holds Speech Contest

On March 5, five local students gathered at the Crittenden Hotel for the Coudersport Rotary Club’s 4-Way Test Speech Contest.

Alison Wright, a home-schooled student, won the contest and will advance to the regional contest held April 28 in Clearfield. She was joined by Ethan Kibbe of Northern Potter High School; Santiago Martinez of Coudersport Jr.-Sr. High School; Peter Wright, also a home-schooled student; and Sara Doyle of Coudersport Jr.-Sr. High School. Kibbe took second in the event, while Martinez placed third.

Alison Wright focused her speech on how youth organizations provide life-long skills. She cited Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Interact Club and the Boys & Girls Club in her speech. Wright spoke of how those organizations are beneficial to youth; they are fair by giving youth a boost and a shot at success; they promote goodwill by allowing the youth to feel part of something; and they are beneficial as they teach youth about helping their community.

Alison Wright earned $100 by winning the speech contest, and will have a shot at winning a $1,000 prize at the regional competition. Kibbe earned $75 for his efforts, while Martinez, Doyle and Peter Wright earned $25.

4-Way Speech Contest director Pat Northeimer said, “I am more and more amazed each year on the topics that are picked.”

Pictured, in front, from left, are Sara Doyle and Alison Wright. In back, from left, are Ethan Kibbe, Santiago Martinez and Peter Wright.