The Japanese American Optimist Club is inviting high school students to unleash their public speaking skills on the topic of optimism in its annual Oratorical Contest in March.
This year’s topic is “How My Optimism Will Help Me Press on to Greater Achievements of the Future.” The contest is open to students under age 19 who have not yet graduated from high school. Speeches must be between four and five minutes long and will be scored on poise, content, delivery and presentation and effectiveness.
Winners will receive a gift card and advance to zone and district competitions for the opportunity to win a $2,500 college scholarship.
The contest will be held on Wednesday, March 4, at 7 p.m. at Taix French Restaurant, 1911 Sunset Blvd. in Los Angeles.
Contest applications and rules are available at www.optimist.org/Forms/Oratorical_RULES_PAD-E_14-15.pdf.
For more information, email teresatakahama@gmail.com.