The Platteville Optimist Clubs’ combined oratorical contest was held at Mound City Bank March 24.

There were six entrants representing Platteville Middle School, Belmont High School, and Platteville High School.
This year’s topic was “How My Optimism Will Help Me Press on to Greater Achievements of the Future.”

The three top speakers were Lucy Tian of PHS, Declan Crego of BHS; and Quinn Collins of PMS. Each of them received a $100 check for their accomplishment.  Tian had the top speech, and she will represent the Platteville area clubs at the District Conference on May 2.

The oratorical contest is an annual event and fits the Optimist vision of “Bringing Out the Best in Kids.”

“It is gratifying to watch the young speakers apply themselves to the task of preparing a speech focused on optimism,” said Tracy Ball, Noon Club member and co-chair of the contest.

The importance of the contest was reflected in each speaker’s appearance and manner. The young speakers were dressed to impress, and their nervous energy was released as they presented their speeches to the judges and the audience of parents.

The Platteville Optimists have supported the oratorical contest for years and have had several District winners. The top prize at the District level is a $2,500 scholarship. The annual oratorical contest continues to be a way to support area students.
Optimist International is one of the world’s largest service club organizations with 75,000 adult and youth members with 2,600 clubs in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and throughout the world. Carrying the motto “Bringing Out the Best in Kids,” Optimists conduct positive service projects that reach more than 6 million young people each year. There are three Optimist Clubs in Platteville and new members are always welcome.

To learn more about Optimist International and locate a local club, visit the organization’s website at www.optimist.org.