Earlier this month, the Optimist Club of LaGrange hosted a scholarship oratorical contest for Troup County students.

The theme of the contest was “Where Are My Roots of Optimism.” Two Gardner Newman Middle school students were named tops in the competition.

Ellie Moone and Render McLeod were each awarded first place and received an Optimist Club Medallion, certificate and a gift after they presented their speech in front of roughly 20 Optimist Club members, family members and other guests. A total of 10 students attended and spoke during the afternoon luncheon. Runner-ups were:

Lauren Farris – second place girls, Gardner Newman Middle School

Ka’Various Perry – second place boys, Gardner Newman Middle School

Sarah Blanks – third place girls, Long Cane Middle School

Trey Ketchum – third place boys, Long Cane Middle School

“The judges had a difficult time selecting the winners,” said Natalie Phillips, Optimist Oratorical Contest Chair. “Each student was outstanding and their presentations were powerful. We enjoy hosting this competition to support scholarships for students.”

Each person was given the same topic, and they prepared and presented a four to five minute speech using the given topic. They were judged on poise, time and presentation of topic.    

Both McLeod and Moone will advance to the zone level competition and compete against other Optimist Club winners, who have advanced in their local areas. If either student wins the zone competition, they will move up to the district level where they have a chance to win a scholarship. Finally, if they advance to the regional/world championship, they have a chance to win up to $15,000 in additional scholarship monies.