Local students score big in Optimist Oratorical Contest
Three local students participated in the annual Plant City Optimist Club Oratorical Contest on Feb. 19 at the Plant City Recreation & Parks Department. The contest asked, “Where are my roots of optimism?” and students presented a four to five-minute oration in front of an audience of more than 30 people.
“This activity helps our young people prepare for their future by developing their public speaking skills,” Optimist Club President Pat Stottlemyer said in a news release.
Lily Batley and Kanyea Sutton placed first, Mackenzie Steele placed second, Delaney Flowers placed third and Sara Demolli and Makayla Johnson were honorable mentions.
They were scored on poise, content of speech, delivery and presentation and overall effectiveness. The two first place finishers advanced to the Zone Contest, which is held on April 9. Winners there will advance to the North Florida District’s Southwest Regional Contest for the Tampa Bay area on April 21. The Plant City club will host both the Zone and Southwest Regional competitions this year.
Photojournalism contest returns
The Plant City Photo Archives and History Center announced its photojournalism contest is open to students at Plant City High School and adult residents of the greater Plant City area age 18 or older.
Those who enter must use their photographs to tell a story of Plant City or its surrounding area’s history. Up to four photos may be used and a story must be attached. Students must write a 300 to 600-word story and adults must write a 400 to 800-word story.
The contest is now open and will close April 12. Winners will be announced April 19. Students should submit entries to Jamie Stephens, PCHS college and carer counselor. Adults should send entries to the Photo Archives and History Center, 106 S. Evers St., or email them to Gil Gott at gil@plantcityphotoarchives.org. For more information call 813-754-1578.
Land Remembered Tour comes to Plant City
You can see “A Land Remembered” and Patrick Smith’s other popular books come to life via a multimedia show presented by Patrick’s son Rick. Rick will talk about his father’s colorful life as a writer and explain the process he used to write his books during a seminar at Bruton Memorial Library.
The majority of the presentation will focus on “A Land Remembered,” which explored the journey of a pioneer family and discusses the roots of the “real” Florida. Rick will share stories of the river rats of Mississippi, the Seminoles of south Florida, the story of migrant workers and more.
Space is limited so reserve your seat in advance by calling the library at 813-757-9215. The event at 7 p.m. on March 8 and is funded by the Friends of the Bruton Memorial Library.