Eliana Mandelberg and Chukwudubem Echezona, students at Howell Middle School North, participated in Optimist International’s District Oratorical Competition held at the Inn at Reading in Wyomissing, Pa.
According to a press release, earlier this year, local Optimist International chapters across the nation and around the world tasked middle school and high school students with writing and delivering presentations that answered the question, “Is there a fine line between optimism and reality?”
Winners at the local level advanced to the district competition, where they vied for college scholarships. In February, Mandelberg (first place) and Echezona (second place) outscored dozens of other presenters to earn the honor of representing the Howell Optimist Club at the district level, according to the press release.
On April 27, local club champions gathered at The Inn at Reading in Wyomissing, Pa., to present their speeches before Optimist International members and community leaders.
The competition was divided into two sessions. Winners of the morning session advanced to the finalist session in the afternoon.
While Mandelberg was one of six finalists to compete in the afternoon session, neither Mandelberg nor Echezona will advance to the regional level. Both Howell residents are eligible to enter the competition next year, according to the press release.
Optimist International is a worldwide volunteer organization made up of more than 2,500 local clubs whose members strive to make the future brighter by bringing out the best in children, in their communities, and in themselves, according to its website.
The Howell Optimist Club welcomes new members to support local programs. For information, contact club president John Alliano at [email protected]