Tri-Town Optimist Club Oratorical contestants are Back, from left, Mr. Bronson Stinnett, Junia Trussoni, Calliope Valliere, Max Kanamugire, Emma Starbird, Henry Noonan, Ava Carrier, Brenna Bergman, Mallory White, Avaya Smith and Mrs. Ell Fanus. Front, Evan Cote, Nolan Davis, Marley Simpson, Mac Hill, Ellie Arsenault, Elyse Haslip, Kristyn Purdy and Brycen Woodbury. Submitted

AREA — The Tri-Town Optimist Club, which serves the towns of Poland, Minot and Mechanic Falls, held their annual Oratorical Contest on Feb. 13.

The topic was “How to Change the World with Optimism”. Teachers Bronson Stinnett and Ell Fanus helped students prepare a 4 to 5 minute speech that was presented to a packed audience of family, friends and teachers.

First place was Elyse Haslip, second place was Ava Carrier and third place was Henry Noonan. The contest is designed for youth to gain experience in public speaking, perfect self-expression, gain self-assurance and improve communication skills.